HISTORY OF
STORY COUNTY
IOWA
A RECORD OF SETTLEMENT, ORGANIZATION,
PROGRESS AND ACHIEVEMENT
By W. O. PAYNE
Local history is the ultimate substance of national history— Wilson
ILLUSTRATED
VOLUME H
CHICAOQ; .
THE S. J. CLARKE PUBLISHING CO.
1911
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P'.lBiJC LIBRARY
.810*1, ufcNOX *NB
riLOEN F0UND»TI0NI.
R 1»l2 L
THE NEV/ YORK
PUBLIC LIBRARY
ASTOR, LENOX AND
TILDEN fOUNOAnON*.
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BIOGRAPHICAL
PETE E. SHUG-\RT.
A country ha - - ... ^ is
but one man at Uic .-^^. r^ z„^..^:. i:. _ _■...„_=. c-r„=: . of
business is limitless and its (qqwrtmnties many. There £r ve-
nues of activity and such demand for ^Bcient service i: i' ' --'=-
may steadily work his way upward if he has enei^ ar. . ^ - - -
counts honesty among his salient qoalides. Peie E. 5 ^
among those who have not feared to ver: - t-t f^ :
has led the way. Proving his worth in tr. - ' "
crowned his efforts, and he is today CHie : : : . . - ; -
tractors of Iowa. He makes his brane in Xevaii as bom cm the
east side of the Mississippi, his birth havir . - ■ - IDinois,
January 8, 1865. His parents were Dr. C ; t rhnan)
Shugart, natives of Pennsylvania and Xew Jersey. - ..ely. Their last
days, however, were spent in Nevada. ..' f-t ' ' t ' - 1907. after
devoring his life to the practice of ve zr.-ir _ 7 t f^riily came
to this cirv in 1872 frcHn PrincetfMi, Illinois.
Pete E. Shugart is the sixth in or ' - ' ' ' -- - 1 :i— ' :' r - ' '
dren, the record being as follows: Jc; r .. i r^ .-'r. :: ..— t: :;-
the wife of John Prior, of Nevada; Philip, also living in Ames; Uh: t : t
wife of Douglas Brunstm, of Des TT - Pete E. ; Cr '
killed on the railroad at the age of : :r _ .-.e years; Mel : ;i-
the wife of Robert Cordlioas and died in Central City. Nebraska : ar ;
William, of Sturgis. South Dakota.
Pete E. Shugart was a lad of seven years st '-e - ^^ --- -^— :veI
to Iowa, residing with his father upon a far— : of
Ne\-ada until eighteen years of age, dun-_- _ - -
education in the country schools. He ther. : ; -: -' . -.:- ' -'"
seat and gave his attention to railroading ;-. : t ;----- — -: 1-: :
teaming in the winter seastHis. He woriced as a :i 1 :- - - : -
road at first but gradually won pmnotion and ever.rui; t 1- v 1 :
contractor, to which business he has devoted his ererr;; : ' i -: t ; -
6 HISTORY or STORY COUNTY
years. Mis time has been principally given to railroad grading, yet he has
done some bridge work and during the past five years he has been awarded
many e.xtensive and important contracts. He built over two hundred and
fifty miles of railroad in 1910 in the Dakotas and had railroad contracts
throughout the middle west. His first contract was in grading for the
motor line from Ames. He built eighty-five miles of the coast line of the
Milwaukee railroail west of the Missouri river in the summer of 1907 and
had over twelve hundred teams, of which he owned one hundred and
twenty-five, while about fifteen hundred men were employed at that time.
In the same summer he built forty miles of the South Dakota Central
Railroad between Arlington and Watertown. Four years ago he con-
structed an electric line between .Vines and Des Moines, and in 1909 and
1910 he built over three hundred and fifty miles of railroad, while during
the past four years he has built altogether si.x hundred miles. He is the
largest team contractor in the state of Iowa. Team work is his specialty
but he also does some shovel work.
As he has prospered in his undertakings and has seen opportunity for
judicious investments, Mr. Shugart has made extensive purchases of land
until he is now the owner of three thousand, tw^o hundred and eighty acres
in Story county, his holdings exceeding that of any other landed property
in the county. He also has four hundred and fifty acres in Palo Alto
county, Iowa, and is extensively engaged in feeding hogs and cattle and
every winter ships about a thousand head of horses. He also feeds
about five hundred head of cattle each winter and his sale of hogs in 1909
amounted to over twenty thousand dollars. He is the largest cattle feeder
in the county and upon his different farms he has erected a number of
large barns especially built for feeding. He can feed one hundred and
sixty-five head of horses in his two barns in Nevada. He also built the
Savery livery in Des Moines. This is the largest livery barn in the state
and was erected at a cost of over twenty thousand dollars. He owned it
for a time, then sold it. He did all of the gra<lincf for the armory post at
Des Moines and built all of the macadam roads there. He is one of the
largest stockholders in the First National Bank of Nevada and although he
started out empty-handed, with no special training for his work, he is
today one of the most successful men of this part of the state and his
lal>ors have been of a character that have contributed much to general
progress and improvement as well as to individual success. At this writ-
ing .Mr. Shugar is carrying on his contracting business as the senior part-
ner of the firm of Shugart & Barnes Brothers, the partnership having been
fiirmed in the summer of 1910. He is also associated with Bert B. W'cltv
and Judge Lcc. of .Ames, Iowa, in platting a tract of land of thirty acres
adjoining Nevada on the southeast. They purchased this and are now
grading all of the streets. They have sold many of the lots and Mr. Shu-
gart has recently erected ihin- four g I .mIi.-im ^ The district is known
as Allen Park addition.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 7
On tlic 4tli of July. 1889, Mr. Shugart was married to Miss Edith
Banks, who was born in Rockford county, lUinois, January 9, 1870, and
was brouglit to Story county in infancy by her parents, A. K. and Sarah
(Rice) Banks. Her father was for twelve years sheriff of Story county
and a prominent and influential citizen here but is now a resident of Des
Moines. He was born September 21, 1845, and his wife was born Feb-
ruary 25, 1851. Their marriage was celebrated December 31, 1868. Unto
Mr. and Mrs. Shugart have been born three children: Eva L., born May
9, 1890, is a student in the Northwestern University at Chicago, doing
special work in elocution and physical culture. Charles A., born May 4,
1893, died on the 7th of October of that year. Thelma Lois, born October
12, 1S99, is at home.
The Shugart residence is one of the finest homes in Nevada and was
erected by Mr. Shugart in 1900. No record in this volume perhaps indi-
cates more clearly the value and force of close application, unfaltering de-
terminati(5n and uncjuestioned reliability. There have been no esoteric
]ihases in his entire career. He has sought and won his success along the
lines indicated and is respected and honored by all for what he has ac-
complished.
JAMES A. McKEE.
James A. McKee, postmaster of Cambridge, to which position he was
a|jpointC(I on the 22d of July, 1909, has since filled the position to the satis-
faction of the general public. He is numbered among the worthy native
sons of Story county, his birth having occurred in Union township on the
13th of February, 1857, his parents being Hugh and Mary Ann (Harper)
AIcKce, both of whom were natives of Ireland. In 1853, in early manhood
and womanhood, they crossed the Atlantic to the United States, their mar-
riage being celebrated in Ironton, Ohio, in 1854. A year later they came
to Story county, Iowa, taking up their abode among the earliest settlers of
this district. Mr. McKee entered a quarter section of land, built a log cabin
and later erected a modern frame dwelling. He remained on this farm until
within five or six years of his death, when he put aside the active work of
the fields and removed to Cambridge, where his demise occurred in 1903.
The period of his residence in this county covered almost a half century
and he was well known and highly esteemed as one of its pioneer settlers and
substantial agriculturists. His widow still survives and makes her home in
Cambridge, where she has a host of warm friends.
James A. McKee remained on the home farm until about twenty-two
years of age, when he started out as an agriculturist on his own account,
being thus busily engaged for a few years. Subsequently he came to Cam-
bridge and cmliarked in the butchering business, being connected therewith
8 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
for seven years. On the expiration of that period he began deaHng in Hve
stock and for about thirteen years was one of the best known stockmen of
the county. He was appointed postmaster of Cambridge on the 22d of July,
1909. and, abandoning liis live stock interests, has since devoted his entire
attention to the discharge of his official duties.
On the nth of September, 1888, Mr. McKee was united in marriage to
Miss Jennie Xellis, of Cambridge, Iowa. They have one son, Ray, bom
October 22, 1893, who assists his father and holds the office of assistant
postmaster.
Mr. McKee gives his political allegiance to the republican party and has
long wielded a powerful influence in its local ranks. For six years, from
1903 until 1909, he served as mayor of Cambridge, his administration being
characterized by many measures of reform and improvement. Fraternally
he is identified witii the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, belonging to
Cambridge Lodge, No. 486, while his religious faith is indicated by his
membership in the United Brethren church, to which his wife also belongs.
Having spent his entire life in Story county, he has gained an extensive
circle of warm friends who entertain for him the utmost regard and esteem
because of his many excellent traits of character.
CHARLES EDWIN OLINGER.
Charles Edwin Olinger. a prominent resident of Maxwell, is now living
practically retired, giving his attention only to the care and management of
his properties. He was formerly identified with agricultural pursuits in
Story county and also conducted a real-estate and insurance business for
a number of years. He was born in Indian Creek township, this county, on
the 2(1 of March, 1868, his birth occurring on the Olinger farm — a part of
the present site of Maxwell. His father and mother, George \V. and Anna
Eliza (John) Olinger, were both natives of Carroll county, Indiana, com-
ing to Story county, Iowa, with their respective parents. The Olinger family
made their way to Polk county, Iowa, in 1853, while the following year wit-
nessed their arrival in Story county. Here the parents of our subject were
married and established their home. George W. Olinger acquired half of
the old homestead farm of two hundred acres, the other half belonging to
his brother, James M. He devoted his time and energies to the work of
the fields until calle<l to his final rest, passing away on the 6th of December,
1886. in the faith of the Presbyterian church, to which his widow also be-
longs. His political allegiance was given to the democracy and he held the
office of township trustees and also served as a member of the school board
for many years. His widow, who still survives and makes her home with
our subject, is well known and highly esteemed throughout the community
in which she has so long resided.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 9
Charles Edwin Olinger was reared under the parental roof, attending
the common schools in the acquirement of an education. When nineteen
years of age he began teaching, following that profession for two years and
abandoning it on the day that he attained his majority. During that period
he also worked at farming, being closely identified with general agricultural
pursuits until 1892, when he embarked in the real-estate and insurance busi-
ness. In addition to his interests in this connection he also operated his
farm until he disposed of it in 1899. In the spring of 1900 he opened an
office in ]\Ia.\well and devoted his entire attention to real estate and insur-
ance, being prominently and successfully identilied with this field of business
activity until 1909, since which time he has given his supervision solely
to the care and management of his properties. He is a director of the Peo-
ple's State Bank and was one of the organizers of that institution as well as
of the Farmers Grain Company of Maxwell.
Mr. Olinger has been married twice. On the ist of October, 1889, he
wedded Miss Elsie A. Ludlow, of Jasper county, Iowa, by whom he had
four children, two of whom are yet living, namely: Byron K., who holds a
clerkship in the First National Bank of Nevada, Iowa; and Mildred J., a
high school student. The wife and mother was called to her final rest on the
nth of September, 1905, and on the 12th of May, 1907, Mr. Olinger was
again married, his second union being with Miss Jennie M. Comer, of
Northville, South Dakota. They now have two children, Edwin Comer and
George Donald.
In politics Mr. Olinger is a republican. He takes an especial interest
in educational matters, is president of the board of school directors, was a
member of the board when the present handsome school building was
erected and has done much to bring the Maxwell schools up to their present
high state of efficiency. Fraternally he is identified with Herald Lodge,
No. 455, A. F. & A. M., while both he and his wife belong to the Eastern
Star. In religious faith he is a Presbyterian. His entire life has been spent
in Story county and he enjoys an enviable reputation as one of its leading
and representative citizens.
KEITH R. FRAZIER.
Keith R. Frazier, one of the leading business men of Story county, is at
the head of the firm of K. R. Frazier & Company of Colo, dealers in lum-
ber, grain, coal, etc. His birth occurred in Champaign county, Illinois, on
the nth of December, 1878, his parents being Robert A. and Mary J.
(Friesner) Frazier. The father, who was born in Muskingum county,
Ohio, about 1848, removed when a young man to Champaign county, Illi-
nois, where he was married and identified himself with the grain and lum-
ber business, there conducting an enterprise of this character until 1892.
10
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
In that year he came to Story county and established himself in the gram
and coal business at Nevada, purchasing a mill and elevator combined, which
he remodeled to make a commodious elevator building. He has thus been
prominently identified with the business interests of Nevada continuously
since and is widely recognized as a prosperous and influential resident of
the town. In 1902 he assisted in the organization of the People's Savings
Hank, was chosen its president and has served in that capacity to the pres-
ent time.
Keith R. I-Vazier was reared untler the parental roof and supplemented
his preliminary education by a course of study in the Nevada high school,
while later he attended the University of Iowa. He early became familiar
with his father's business in principle and detail, ably assisting in its con-
duct. On the ist of October, 1902, he and his brother. Pearl Frazier. be-
came partners of their father under the firm style of R. A. Frazier & Sons.
In 1907 our subject disposed of his interest in the concern and, in association
with his father, purchased the business of Shaw & Binder in Colo, where he
has since dealt extensively in lumber, grain and coal as the head of the firm
of K. R. Frazier & Company. He is likewise a stockholder in the Story
County Independent Telephone Company and enjoys an enviable reputation
as a young man of excellent business ability, sound judgment and keen
discrimination.
In 1907 Mr. Frazier was united in marriage to Miss Myrtle McDole, of
Eddyville. Iowa. Mrs. Frazier is a devoted and consistent member of the
Presbyterian church, exemplifying its teachings in her daily life. Mr. Fra-
zier is well known here and in all of his dealings with his fellowmen has
demonstrated his right to their regard and confidence.
EDGAR WILLIAMS STANTON.
Ilvii) ijii/cii 1)1 Amo i^ justly proud of the Iowa State College and
the i)osition to which it has attained among the educational institutions of
the country. It is the visible evidence of the labors and devotion of a
number of men to the profession to which they have consecrated their lives.
It is a widely acknowledged fact that the most important work to which
a man can direct his energies is that of teaching, whether it be from the
pulpit, from the lecture platform or from the schoolroom. The founda-
tion of character-building is laid in youth and the impressionable mind of
the young readily receives the lessons that have important bearing upon
his entire future life. The realization of this fact has made Professor
Stanton hold to high ideals not only in methods of instruction in the par-
ticular branches assigned to him in his college work but also in the personal
conduct aiul the trend of thought and interests which constitute an ever
present exani|)le for the student.
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HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 13
A native of Pennsylvania, Professor Stanton was born at Waymart,
Wayne county. He is descended from Thomas Stanton, who landed in
Virginia in January, 1635, from the merchantman Bonaventura, and who
in the following year removed to Boston, Massachusetts, and thence, in
1639, to Hartford, Connecticut. This ancestor was prominent in the Pe-
quot and other Indian wars and in the early life of the colony. The line
of descent is traced down from Thomas Stanton through John, John and
David to Colonel Asa Stanton, who was a native of Connecticut and an
active participant in the Revolutionary war. He served both in the army
and infant navy of the colonies and, being captured, was confined for a
considerable time on the prison ship Jersey. His son, Asa Stanton, born
in Paupack, Pennsylvania, July 27, 1793, was the father of Fitz Henry
Stanton, who was born at Waymart, Pennsylvania, May 7, 1823. Fitz
Henry Stanton became successively a lumberman, railroad official and
farmer, the farm on which he died, in 1906, having come into the posses-
sion of his grandfather in 1793. He was married on the 30th of June,
1844, to Alary Rounds, a daughter of Arba and Sarah Rounds.
Professor Stanton, of Ames, son of Fitz Henry and Mary (Rounds)
met the usual experiences of youth passed on a Pennsylvania farm in the
'60s. His home training helped to establish habits of industry and a rec-
ognition of the value and worth of time and money. He enjoyed farm life
in its various phases but desired to get out into the great, busy world and
gain a broader knowledge of life than could be obtained within the cir-
cumscribed limits of the home farm. His inclination was toward mechan-
ical and business pursuits yet into other channels his energies were directed
and Iowa gained thereby one of her foremost educators. He was a pupil
in the public schools of Waymart and in the normal school of that place
prior to entering the Delaware Literary Institute of Franklin, Delaware
county, New York. This is a preparatory school, then under the charge
of Professor George W. Jones, afterward professor of mathematics at the
Iowa State College at Ames and later professor of mathematics at Cornell
University, at Ithaca, New York. On the completion of his preparatory
work in the Delaware Literary Institute he sought the opportunity of pur-
suing a college course where he could meet his expenses by working at the
institution. Not finding any such opportunity in the east, he wrote to
Professor Jones, of Ames, Iowa, having previously worked for him while
attending school in Franklin. In reply he was told to come on at once
and, making his way westward, he entered the sophomore class of the
Iowa State College, living in the home of Professor Jones during the re-
mainder of his student life, doing work about the house and also clerical
work in the office of the college cashier. Such was his recognized ability
and scholarship that on the day of his graduation, in November, 1872, he
was elected instructor in mathematics in the college and throughout the
intervening years to the present time has been continuously a teacher
there, his labors constituting one of the strong and forceful elements in the
14 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
development of the school and in the maintenance of the high standard that
has placed the college among the foremost educational institutions of the
middle west. Me was assistant professor of mathematics from the ist of
March, 1874, until March i, 1878, when he was made professor of mathe-
matics and political economy, so continuing until September i, 1906. Since
the latter date his entire time and attention, owing to the growth of the
school, have been given, in instructional lines, to mathematics. He has
also had voice in the management of the institution for thirty-seven years,
or since the i6th of November, 1874. when he was made secretary of the
board of trustees. He acted in that capacity continuously until July i,
1909. when he was elected secretary of the college. He was also acting
president from November 13, 1890, until February 17, 1891, and again in
1902-3 and since August 19, 1910. He has likewise been dean of the
junior college from the nth of September, 1903, to the present time.
Throughout the entire period of his connection with the school he has
labored earnestly and zealously to extend its influence, to improve its
methods and to make its course of instruction of practical value as a
preparation for the duties and responsibilities of life. Reading and re-
search have kejJt him in touch with the work that is being done by the
most i)rominent educators of this and other lands, and sound judgment
has enabled him to glean from their methods many ideas which, adapted
to the work of Iowa College, have proven of inestimable value. More-
over, his initiative spirit has enabled him to originate many plans of worth
to the institution and methods of instruction whicli have worked out most
satisfactorily in the schoolroom.
In other connections Professor Stanton has displayed excellent business
ability, being interested in both farming and banking. Through economy
and fortunate investment in Iowa land and industrial enterprises of the
state he has acquired a fair competence. While not without that laudable
ambition for the attainment of success, which is the stimulus of all in-
dustry, in an effort to provide the comforts of life for his family, he lias
also been actuated by the higher motives of contriliuting to the world's
intellectual progress which constitutes the basis of an advancing civiliza-
tion.
On the 22d of February, 1877. in Mount Pleasant. Iowa. Professor
Stanton was united in marriage to Miss Margaret P. McDonald, who pur-
sued her e<lucation in the Muskingum College of Ohio and the Mount
Pleasant (Iowa) Ladies Seminary, being a graduate of the latter institu-
tion. She was afterward jirofcssor of French and preceptress of the Iowa
State College from 1870 until 1878. She passed away July 25, 1895, her
death being <lceply rcgrcttccl by all who knew her. for her broad culture
and splendid womanly qualities had endeared her to all with whom she had
been brought in contact. The woman's building on the campus of Iowa
College has been nainefl Margaret Hall in her honor, while her lui'^hand
as a inciniirial to iu-r prcscnte<l to the college the Margaret Hall chimes,
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 15
consisting of eleven bells manufactured by Taylor Brothers of England
and now occupying the beautiful campanile on the campus.
Professor and Mrs. Stanton became the parents of four children. Ed-
win McDonald, bom July 31, 1879, was married February 26, 1908, to
Miss ]Maude AIcDougall, of Brockville, Canada. He was graduated from
the scientific course in Iowa State College in 1898, was for two years a
student in Michigan University and was graduated from the medical de-
partment of the Pennsylvania State University in 1903. For two years
thereafter he was assistant in the Bender Research Laboratory of Albany,
New York, and for two and a half years was with Dr. O.xner, of Chicago,
He is now junior partner of the firm of McMullen & Stanton, practicing
surgeons of Schenectady, New York. Roger Williams, the second son,
born February 2, 1882, died on the 30th of May of the same year. Mar-
garet Beaumont, born May 16, 1883, was graduated from the Iowa .State
College in 1902 and spent the following year in post-graduate work at
Bryn Mawr. She afterward devoted two years to post-graduate work in
Wisconsin University, winning the Master of Arts degree in 1908. She
was awarded a scholarship in the department of history for 1909 and is
now instructor of history of the State Preparatory School at Bowlder,
Colorado. Edgar Williams Stanton, Jr., the youngest son, born January
19, 1887, was graduated at Ames College in 1907 with the Civil Engineer
degree, did post-graduate work at the Wisconsin University in 1909-10
in hydraulic engineering, and now is irrigation engineer at Gridley, Cali-
fornia.
Four years after the death of his first wife Professor Stanton was mar-
ried, on the 2ist of December, 1899, to Miss Julia A. Wentch, of Traer,
Iowa. She was graduated from the Iowa State College in 1888, was in-
structor in mathematics in the Beatrice (Neb.) high school from 1889
until 1903, and instructor in mathematics in Iowa State College from 1893
until 1896 and again in 1898-9. In 1896-7 she was a post-graduate student
in the Chicago University. She is very prominent in the club and social
life of the college and city and has been president of the Ames library board
from 1905 to the present time. The only child of this marriage is Barbara
Stanton, born October 15, 1904.
Professor Stanton has always given his political allegiance to the re-
publican party but has never been an aspirant for office. He belongs to
the Congregational church and labors earnestly to promote its growth and
extend its influence. At this point it would be almost tautological to enter
into any series of statements as showing him to be a man of broad intelli-
gence and genuine public spirit, for these have been shadowed forth be-
tween the lines of this review. Strong in his individuality, he never lacks
the courage of his convictions but there are as dominating elements in his
individuality a lively human sympathy and an abiding charity which, as
taken in connection with the sterling integrity and honor of his character,
have naturally gained for him the respect and confidence of men. The
16 HISTORY OF STORY COL'XTY
Iowa State College is in considerable measure a monument to his life work,
but greater than even this is the monument that he has builded in the lives
of those pupils who have been influenced by his instruction and stimulated
and inspired by the example which every teacher consciously or uncon-
sciously sets before his pupils.
SEVERT J. SEVERSON.
To few men are given the pleasure and gratification of looking back over
half a century of their lives spent upon the place of their birth and reflecting
that by their individual efforts they have contributed in no undue measure
to the development and growth of the community in which they reside, and
the history of Union township, Story county, would be incomplete without a
record of the life work of Severt J. Severson, who was born March 15,
1855, a son of John and Betsy (Aspoland) Severson, both of whom were
natives of Norway. They came to this country while in their youth, locating
in Illinois, where they were married and resided until 1855. In the spring
of that year they removed to Story county. Iowa, and upon his arrival Mr.
Severson entered five quarter sections of government land, two quarters of
which were in Palestine township and three in Union township. On the lat-
ter property he built a log cabin, located on the farm where his son now re-
sides. Here he carried on the pursuit of agriculture until the time of his
death, which occurred in 1877 in England while he was returning from a
visit to Norway. The faithful wife and mother survived him for eight
years and then she too passed away.
Severt J. Severson was reared on the home farm, where he has spent
his entire life, obtaining his early education in the district schools, which at
that time were exceedingly limited in their facilities. Being naturally ambi-
tious, however, he acquired enough book knowledge to enable him to adapt
it to the pursuit of every day life. Possessed of the sterling qualities of
thrift and industry which characterized his father, he, when but twenty
years old, bought the home farm, of which he had been previously in charge.
In conjunction with liis brother John J., he purchased three quarter sec-
tions, and later bought forty acres, which he added this to his other property.
Imiihi time to time he acquired additional land in North Dakota, his first
purchase there having been made in 1903. in Cavalier county, his holdings
in that state now amounting to eight hundred acres. At the present time he
owns three hundred acres in Union township, this county, one hundred acres
of which is located two miles east of the home farm. Mr. Severson has con-
tributed to the welfare of his township, always having its interest at heart.
Although at fir.st giving his attention to general agriculture, he subsequently
made a specialty of raising hogs, and, having unusual knowledge in this
branch of farming, he has met with unqualified success.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 17
On November 2, 187O, Air. Severson was united in marriage to Miss
Arabella Sheldahl, a daughter of Eric and Betsy (Ness) Sheldahl, both of
whom were natives of Norway. The father emigrated to the United States
in 1845, the mother arriving two years later and both locating in Kendall
county, Illinois, where they were married. In 1856 they came to Story
county, Iowa, and here Mr. Sheldahl entered one hundred and twenty acres
of government land, to which he later added by purchasing forty acres of
adjoining land. Owing to his splendid business ability and years of well
directed labor he is now enabled to live in retirement, which he has done
for the past ten years, making his home in Roland, Story county. He re-
signed the management of the farm to his sons, who are conducting it in the
same capable manner as did their father. To Mr. and Airs. Severson were
born seven children, namely : Edwin, a lawyer in Stanley, North Dakota,
is married and has one son, Edgar. Bertha is the wife of Jans Igland, a
farmer residing in North Dakota, where he owns three hundred and twenty
acres of land, and they have two daughters, Anna and Sylvia. Oscar, Mar-
tin and Arthur own about eleven hundred acres of land in North Dakota,
upon which they now reside. Bessie is the wife of Henry Scala, a carpen-
ter of Story county, and they have two children, Wilfred and Arnold. El-
mer is at home with his parents.
In politics Mr. Severson has always given his support to the republican
party and has devoted his spare time to the welfare of his township, having
served as road supervisor and a member of the school board for several
years. Not only has he reached a conspicuous position among the business
men of Story county — he has shown what splendid success can be attained
as the result of well directed efforts and determination and he stands today
one of the most highly esteemed and honored citizens of Union township.
CHARLES A. COOPER.
Charles A. Cooper, one of the successful and enterprising agriculturists
of Collins township is the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of land
comprising the northwest quarter of section 5. His birth occurred in Lee
county, Illinois, on the 12th of December, 1857, his parents being John and
Charlotte (Black) Cooper, both of whom were natives of Ireland. Soon
after their marriage they emigrated to the United States, locating in Lee
county, Illinois, where the father passed away in June, 1870. The mother
subsequently wedded Thurman Collins, likewise a native of the Emerald i.sle,
whose demise occurred about ten years ago. Mrs. Collins still survives and
yet makes her home in Lee county, Illinois.
Charles A. Cooper was reared under the parental roof and attended the
common schools in the acquirement of an education but his opportunities
in this direction were somewhat limited, lie lost his father when little more
18 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
than twelve years of age and, being the second oldest in a family of seven
children, was obliged to assist in the support of his younger sisters and
brothers. He remained with his mother until twenty-three years of age and
in the spring of 1881 launched his ship on the sea of life, coming west to
Iowa and arriving in Colo, Story county, with but five cents in his pocket.
Immediately making preparations to follow an agricultural career, he began
the operation of a rented farm in New Albany township the following sum-
mer and was thus actively engaged in the work of the fields there for a
period of fifteen years. In the spring of 1890 he bought eighty acres of his
present farm and two years later purchased an adjoining tract of similar
size, taking up his abode thereon in the spring of 1895. The farm embraces
the northwest quarter of section 5, Collins township, and has remained his
place of residence for the past sixteen years. The property was unimproved
when it came into his possession and all of the buildings thereon stand as
monuments to his enterprise and industry. Mr. Cooper makes a specialty
of raising Duroc Jersey hogs and for several years past has been feeding at
least one carload each of cattle and hogs. He is widely recognized as one
of the substantial agriculturists of the community and his success is all the
more creditable by reason of the fact that it is attributable entirely to his
own efforts.
On the 4tli of March. 1883. Mr. Cooper was united in marriage to Miss
Hattie Black, of Lee county. Illinois, her parents being James and Sarah
(Wynn) Black, both natives of Ireland. Unto our subject and his wife have
been born six children, four of whom are still living, as follows : Edith, the
wife of Jesse Fry, who cultivates eighty acres of her father's farm; and
Hattie, Fern and Leo, all at home.
In politics Mr. Cooper is a republican, while fraternally he is identified
with Crescent Camp, No. 2358, M. W. A. Both he and his wife belong to
Sunbeam Lodge, No. 181, Mystic Workers of the World. During his resi-
dence in Story county he has made an excellent record for upright manhood
and honorable citizenship and may well be classed with the representative
men of the communitv.
CHARLES D. BARKER.
Charles D. Barker, a prominent and wealthy agriculturist of Union town-
ship, is the owner of three hundred and twenty acres of Story county's most
valuable land. His birth occurred in the state of New York on the "th of
August, 1855, his father being Jesse Barker, a sketch of whom appears on
another page of this work. He was reared at home and in the common
schools acquired his education. When about twenty-three years of age he
started out as an agriculturist on his own account, cultivating rented land
for a short time. About 1880 he purchased eighty acres of his present home
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 19
farm, paying but fifteen hundred dollars for the tract. He has since placed
many substantial improvements on the property, including a modern and at-
tractive residence and other necessary buildings. As his financial resources
have increased he has added to his holdings until they now embrace three
hundred and twenty acres of very valuable and productive land. His farm
is well drained, for he recently laid fifteen thousand tile. Following pro-
gressive and practical methods in the conduct of his agricultural interests,
he has won a gratifying measure of success and is widely recognized as a
prosperous and leading resident of the community.
Mr. Barker has traveled a great deal, having made extended trips almost
yearly and visiting nearly every state in the Union as well as Mexico, Can-
ada, Cuba and British Columbia. In the winter of 1910-11 he visited the
isthmus of Panama. Being a keen observer, he has greatly benefited by his
sojourns in different parts of America and possesses that knowledge and cul-
ture which only travel can bring. He is an expert with the camera and has
many interesting views of the countries through which he has traveled.
While away from home he has been a regular contributor to the local papers
and his articles have attracted wide and favorable attention.
On the 31st of August, 1878, Mr. Barker was united in marriage to Miss
Emily Eastman, of Union township, Story county, a daughter of Thomas
and Margaret Jane (Ball) Eastman. Her father was killed at New Orleans
during the Civil war. Unto our subject and his wife have been born seven
children, six of whom are yet living, as follows : Ada May, the wife of
Frank Ray, of Indian Creek township, this county; Angle Ordell; Arthur
Clinton; Leslie; Jesse; and Aha \'. G.
Mr. Barker is a republican in politics but the honors and emoluments
of office have no attraction for him. During a long residence in this county
he has become widely known and is a man of many friends. His life history
proves what may be accomplished by determined and honorable purpose.
He has based his business principles and actions upon the rules which govern
strict and unswerving integrity and industry and thus he has gained his pres-
ent enviable position in the ranks of the leading citizens of Story county.
WILLIAM W. POPE.
William W. Pope, who opened a modern and well appointed drug store
at Cambridge in 1907, has since built up an extensive and lucrative trade in
this connection. His birth occurred in Knoxville, Marion county, Iowa, on
the 2ist of ^lay, 1880, his parents being William W. and Laura (Jenkins)
Pope, natives of Indiana. The father came to Iowa in early manhood, soon
after the close of the Civil war. while the mother came to this state as a
child with her parents in the "405. the family home being established in
Marion county. William W. Pope, Sr., became one of Warren county's
20 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
successful agriculturists and was also engaged in the grain business for sev-
eral years. At the present time he is living retired in Indianola.
William W. Pope was reared under the parental roof and supplemented
his preliminary education by a course of study in Simpson College. Sub-
sequently he spent a year in the State University of Oregon and after re-
turning to Iowa took a course in ]3harmacy at Highland Park College, being
graduated from that institution with the class of 1905. He was then em-
ployed as a pharmacist at Des ^loines for two years and in 1907 embarked
in business on his own account, opening a drug store in Cambiidge. Dur-
ing the past four years he has maintained a well equipped establishment of
this character, his stock being tastefully arranged, while his honorable busi-
ness methods and earnest desire to please his patrons have brought to him
a gratifying trade.
On the 5th of August, 1908, Mr. I'ope was united in marriage to Miss
Bertha Schneider, of Fennimore, Wisconsin, by whom he has one child,
John William. Mr. Pope gives his political allegiance to the republican
parly, believing that its principles are most conducive to good government.
Fraternally he is identified witji the Knights of Pythias, belonging to Cam-
bridge Lodge Xo. 319, in which he is filling the chair of chancellor com-
mander. His wife is a devoted and consistent member of the Methodist
Episcopal church. Mr. Pope has attained a creditable measure of pros-
perity for one of his years, occupying a position among the representative
and enterprising business men of Story county.
D.WH) W. l',R(JWX.
In the list of Story county's honored dead is to be found the name of
David W. Brown, a highly successful farmer, wlio passed his entire lite in
this county and was intimately identified with its development. I'.orn on
the home farm July 16, 1866, he was the son of Levi and Louisa ( Fancher )
Brown, the former of whom was born at Hannibal, Oswego county. New
York, and the latter in Tomjjkins county, Xew York. The father when
seven years of age removed with his parents to Union county. Ohio, and in
1844 came to Lee county, Iowa, subsequently taking up his residence in
Fulton county, Illinois. In 1863 he returned to Iowa and located in Storv
county, where lie engaged with marked success in farming until his death,
which took place September 6, 1892. He was an energetic man of practical
business judgment and became the owner of three hundred and cightv .-icres
of good land in this couiuy.
David W. i'.rown received his education in the district schools and as he
grew up devoted his attention to various duties about the house and farm
with an interest which gave bright promise as to his future. At the age
of seventeen years he took charge of the home place, which he cultivated on
Jp %, m
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THE NL .\ , ,J\K
PUBLIC LIBRARY
ASTOR, LENOX AND
TII.DEN fOUNCx.riONt.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 23
his own account, and also purchased one hundred and twenty acres a mile
south of the home farm, which he owned for tifteen years and then sold,
acquiring one hundred and twenty acres immediately adjoining the home-
stead. Upon the death of his father he received his share of the estate —
the old home and eighty acres of land, making his entire farm holdings
amount to two hundred acres.
On the 31st of January, 1890, Mr. Brown was united in marriage to
Miss Elva G. Evans, a daughter of Thomas P. and Emma M. (Day) Evans,
both natives of Indiana. The father removed from Indiana to Illinois with
his parents in early childhood. He grew up in that state and at the time of
the Civil war served in the One Hundred and Forty-eighth Illinois Infantry,
continuing through the entire rebellion. In 1866 he located in Story county,
Iowa, and on December 18, 1870, was married to Miss Emma M. Day, who
passed away June 7, 1890. Mr. Evans continued to make his home upon
his farm until the last year of his life, when he took up his residence with
his daughter, Mrs. Brown, being called away October 12, iQog. He was
one of the highly successful farmers of Collins township and was a man of
unblemished character, very highly respected by the entire community. Po-
litically he adhered to the democratic party and socially was identified with
Amity Lodge No. 361, I. O. O. F. Six children were born to Mr. and Mrs.
Brown, three of whom are now living, William Ray, Emma Blanche and
Cloyd Myrl, all of whom are students in the public schools.
Mr. Brown from the time of arriving at voting age gave his support to
the democratic party. He was not connected with any religious denomina-
tion, but Mrs. Brown is a valued member of the United Brethren church.
He was for many years a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows
and had many warm friends in that organization. Straightforward in busi-
ness affairs and genial in manner, he readily made acquaintances, awakening
in a remarkable degree the good-will of those with whom he came into con-
tact. In all of the relations of life he was broad-minded and his aim was
to be entirely just. He departed this life September 27, 1908. Mrs. Brown
survives her husband and is living on the family homestead, devoting her
time and energy to the interests of her children.
CHARLES A. ROBISON.
Charles A. Robison. who devotes his time and energies to general agri-
cultural pursuits, is the owner of a valuable and well improved farm of
two hundred and seventy acres in Indian Creek township. His birth oc-
curred in that township on the 7th of October, 1864, his father being Robert
A. Robison. More extended mention of the family is made in connection
with the sketch of E. R. Robison, a brother of C. A. Robison, which may
be found on another page of this volume.
24 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Charles A. Robison was reared under the parental roof, acquiring his
education in the public schools. In the summer of 1888 he started out as
an agriculturist on his own account, cultivating a portion of the home farm.
The following fall he was married and established a home of his own,
locating on one of his father's farms in Indian Creek township and residing
thereon for six years. On the expiration of that period he took up his
abode on the ])lace where he has made his home continuously since and
which he has developed into one of the highly improved farms of Indian
Creek township. He built a modern, substantial residence and in fact his
property is lacking in none of the equipments and accessories of a model
farm of the twentieth century. It comprises two hundred and seventy acres
of valuable and productive land and the well tilled fields annually yield
golden harvests in return for the care and labor which is bestowed upon
them.
On the 19th of October, 1888, Mr. Robison was united in marriage to
Miss Fannie Emery, of Iowa Center, Story county. Her father, Dr. John
Allen Emery, who was a native of Pennsylvania, came to this county in
1855. A few months later his parents also came to Story county and at the
end of two years removed to Elkhart, Iowa. Dr. Emery served in the
armv during the period of hostilities between the north and the south, was
wounded by an exploding shell and experienced many of the hardships,
rigors and dangers of war. He was captured in the siege of Vicksburg
and was confined in Andersonville jjrison for eight months, and while with
Sherman on his march to the sea he saw much arduous service. After re-
turning home, liis wound incapacitating him for manual labor, he took up
the study of medicine and was graduated froin the Keokuk Medical Col-
lege with the class of 1873. Locating for practice in Elkhart, Iowa, he there
remained until 1881. when he went to Roonc and was made practicing
physician for the miners at that place, having an average of three or four
hundred men under his care. He was an able representative of Iiis calling,
being remarkably successful in solving the intricate problems which con-
tinually confront the physician.
After removing to Boone he purchased a fann in New Albany town-
ship. Story county, on which he located his family and to which he was
prcjiaring to retire when the accident occurred that resulted in his death
on the 30th of November, 1884. His demise was occasioned by a runaway
accident one day wIhti he was out driving in company witli tlie owners of
the mine.
His wife, who bore the maiden name of Miss Dorothy Venneman, was
a daughter of Lemuel \'enneman, of whom more extended mention is made
in the sketch of his son, L. J. Venneman, which appears on another page
of this w^ork. Mrs. Emery was an artist of no mean note, having jnirsued
a three years' course in art at the Highland Park College. For some years
following she gave private lessons in Des Moines, having a large class.
Many of her paintings on china and canvas now adorn the home of our
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 25
subject. She was called to her final rest on the 6th of October, 1910. Mr.
and Mrs. Robison have one child, Hazel Dorothy, who is a graduate of
the Nevada high school and also pursued the full musical course at Simp-
son College near Des Moines.
Mr. Robison is a republican in politics and has served as a member of
the school board for several years. Fraternally he is identified with the
Independent Order of Odd Fellows, belonging to lodge No. 104 at Nevada,
while his wife and daughter are faithful members of the United Evangeli-
cal church. He has remained in Story county from his birth to the present
time and that his has been an honorable and upright life is indicated by the
fact that many of his stanchest friends are those who have known him
from his boyhood.
CLAUDE G. DICKEY, M. D.
Dr. Claude G. Dickey, a well known and successful physician and sur-
geon of Cambridge, has enjoyed a steadily growing and most lucrative prac-
tice during the five years of his residence here. His birth occurred in
Corning, Adams county, Iowa, on the 6th of September, 1876, his parents
being Charles H. and Mercy (Sherman) Dickey, who are natives of west-
ern New York and Cleveland, Ohio, respectively. Charles H. Dickey was
brought to this state by his parents when a boy, the family home being es-
tablished in Delaware county, where he grew to manhood. He was a
student in Lennox University at the time of the outbreak of the Civil war
and in 1S63 enlisted for service in the Union army. When his term of
enlistment had expired he returned to Iowa and eventually located in Adams
county, where he became identified with general agricultural pursuits. In
the fall of 1883 he took up his abode at Maxwell, Story county, and was
there successfully engaged in merchandising for a number of years. For
the past four years he has lived retired, making his home with his wife
and son Claude in Cambridge. His fraternal relations are with the Masons
and he is a worthy exemplar of the craft. The period of his residence in
this county covers more than a quarter of a century and he enjoys a wide
and favorable acquaintance within its borders.
Claude G. Dickey was reared under the parental roof, pursuing his
studies in the Alaxwell high school and later at Iowa College of Grinnell,
Iowa, which institution conferred upon him the degree of Bachelor of Phil-
osophy in 1900. In the fall of that year he took up the study of medicine,
entering Rush Medical College of Chicago, from which institution he was
graduated in 1903. Because of his scientific course at Grinnell he had been
enabled to complete four years' work in three years and three months. Lo-
cating at Garden City, Hardin county, Iowa, he there followed his profes-
sion for two years and then came to Cambridge to take the practice of Dr.
26 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
M. C. Keith, who removed to Casper. Wyoming. In the intervening five
years he has buih up an extensive and remunerative patronage, having dem-
onstrated his skill and ability in coping with the intricate problems which
continually confront the physician in his efforts to restore health and pro-
long life.
In politics Dr. Dickey is a rc])ublican, while his religious faith is indi-
cated l)y his membership in the .Methodist Episcopal church. Fraternally
he is identified with the Yeomen, the Modern Woodmen of America and
Tabernacle Lodge No. 452, A. F. & A. M., of Cambridge. He maintains
the strictest conformity to the highest professional ethics and enjoys in
full measure the confidence and respect of his professional brethren as well
as of the general public.
FREDERICK WALDEMAR LARSON.
Frederick Waldemar Larson, cashier of the Citizens State Bank of Cam-
bridge and one of the valued citizens of the community, was born in Boone
county. Illinois. April 7. 1865. and is the son of Jonas T. and Sina (Xessen)
Larson. The parents were both natives of Norway and came to America on
the same boat in 1861. their destination being Chicago. They were mar-
ried in the Illinois metropolis and subseciuently removed to Boone county,
where they lived for two years, and then in 1866 came with an emigrant
train to Story county, Iowa. The father purchased land two miles west of
Cambridge in Union township and became one of the substantial farmers
of that section. The mother was called aww' in 1881, and Mr. Larson was
again married, the lady of his choice being Miss Carrie Burreson. also a
native of Norway. He had six children by his first marriage and seven by
the second, and was summoned from earthly scenes in October, 1908. at the
age of seventy-seven years. His second wife is still living. He was a stanch
republican politically but being of a modest and retiring nature never sought
public oftk-c. Religiously he adhered to the Lutheran church.
Frederick Walilemar Larson received his early education in the district
schools and, having shown a decided inclination for study, was sent to Augs-
burg Seminary at Minneapolis. Minnesota, his parents intending to prepare
him for the ministry of the Lutheran church, .\fter two terms in the semi-
nary, however, he left that institution and entered the Western Normal
College at Shenandoah, Iowa, taking the normal and business courses, from
which he was graduated in 1888. He taught school for several terms and
was for a time in Chicago. Finally, being attracted to the mercantile busi-
ness he came to Cambridge and continued in business with good success for
about ten years. In 1901 he disposed of his store and soon afterward ac-
cepted the position of cashier of the Citizens State Bank, which he has ever
since filled, being also a stockholder and a member of the board of directors
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 27
of the institution. He is regarded as one of the able financiers of the county,
and by his close attention to a calling for which he seems eminently adapted
he has greatly added to the resources and prestige of the bank. He is also
interested with Johnson Brothers in farming, now having charge of more
than five hundred acres in this part of the state.
On the i6th of November, 1892, at Des Moines, Air. Larson was united
in marriage to Miss Gustie Xutson, a native of Illinois but of Norwegian
parentage, and by this union four children have been born : Florence G.
and Jessie, both of whom are attending the high school; Charlotte N., now
in the primary school ; and Edna O.
Mr. Larson now gives his support to the prohibitionist party but was for
many years a prominent factor in republican councils. He holds member-
ship in the Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias and the Modern Wood-
men of America, and he and his wife are active members of the Methodist
Episcopal church, in which he has served as steward and trustee and also
as Sunday school superintendent. For nineteen years he has been a mem-
ber of the school board and for thirteen years past has filled the chair of
president of that body. He takes great interest in educational and church
work, devoting a large part of his time in those interests and also contrib-
uting very liberally to all worthy demands. He ranks as a leader in Story
county, both as a business man and as a self-sacrificing citizen, whose constant
aim is to add to the comfort and happiness of others. While he is a banker
he is also a great lover of nature and the call of the farm has for him a
charm that he often finds hard to resist. He has a host of friends who have
been attracted by his spirit of helpfulness, which is one of the most desirable
traits that can be possessed by any human being.
JACOB W. McCORD.
Jacob W. McCord, an enterprising and progressive agriculturist, is the
owner of one hundred and si.xty acres of land in Collins township, where he
is extensively engaged in the raising of shorthorn cattle and Duroc Jersey
hogs. His birth occurred in Des Moines county, Iowa, on the 25th of
October, 185 1, his parents being Conmiodore P. and Sarah E. (Smith)
McCord. The father, who was born in Clermont county, Ohio, on the loth
of October, 1826, was reared in the Buckeye state and in 1850 journeyed
westward to Iowa, locating in Des Moines county. Two years later, in
the fall of 1852. he came to Story county, where the remainder of his life
was spent. Entering a tract of government land in Collins township, he
erected thereon a log cabin and began farming. On the 14th of August,
1862, he enlisted for service in the Civil war, joining Company K, Twenty-
third Iowa \'olunteer Infantry. On the 17th of May, 1863, at the battle
of Black River Bridge, Mississippi, he was so severely wounded in the
28 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
left leg that amputation was necessary and on the 13th of August, 1863,
he was discharged because of disability, subsequently returning to his home
in this county. In 1869 he was elected the first auditor of Story county,
ably serving in that capacity for one term. He next purchased and located
on the farm which is now in possession of his son, A. S. McCord, residing
thereon for a number of years. In 1883 he was stricken with paralysis and
soon afterw-ard took up his abode in Nevada, where he passed away on the
2d of (October, 1886, when almost sixty years of age. He had met with
success in his undertakings as an agriculturist and accumulated about four
hundred and twenty acres of Story county's most valuable farm land. His
fraternal relations were with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and
he was buried with the honors of the Maxwell and Nevada lodges. His
political allegiance was given to the republican party and he was widely
recognized as one of the representative and most highlj- esteemed citizens
of the community. On the 12th of January, 1851, in Des Moines county,
Iowa, he wedded Miss Sarah E. Smith, who was born near Springfield.
Illinois. Their children were nine in number, namely : Jacob W., of this
review; Mary, the deceased wife of John Ray; Nancy, the wife of James
T. White, of Ames, Iowa; Abraham S., living in Collins township. Story
county; Alice, at home; Rachel E., the wife of Clifford Funk, of Des
Moines, Iowa; Sherman G., who is a resident of Nevada, Iowa; Elias S.,
a practicing physician and surgeon of Delmar, Iowa; and Charles P., of
Nevada, Iowa.
Jacob W. McCord was reared under the parental roof and in the ac-
quirement of an education first attended the district schools, while later he
continued his studies in the Nevada city schools. He was married when
about twenty-eight years of age and continued farming as a renter for the
next five or six years. His present farm of one hundred and sixty acres
in Collins township has been his place of abode for the past twenty-six
years and he has lived in his present residence since the spring of 1892.
In connection with the tilling of the soil he raises shorthorn cattle and Duroc
Jersey hogs, keeping only the best blooded stock. This proves a profitable
source of income to him and as the years go by he is meeting with the
measure of success which always crowns persistent, well directed labor.
On the 4th of February, 1879, Mr. McCord was united in marriage to
Miss Martha Dunahoo, a daughter of John Dunahoo. of whom more ex-
tended mention is made in the sketch of M. R. Dunahoo. a brother of Mrs.
McCord. Mr. McCord gives his political allegiance to the republican party
and has served as a member of the board of township trustees for about
sixteen years. The cause of education has always fouml in him a stanch
champion and he served for many years as a member of the school board.
He belongs to Fervent Lodge No. 519, A. F. & A. M., and Crescent Camp.
No. 2358, M. W. A., while both he and his wife are members of the
Eastern Star at Collins and Sunbeam Lodge No. 181, Mystic Workers of
America. They likewise belong to the United Brethren church, of which
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 29
Mr. IMcCord is one of the trustees and in which he served for several
years as steward. A review of his hfe shows that in business he has been
diligent as well as reliable, that in citizenship he has been loyal to the best
interests of the community and that his social acquaintances know him as
a tried and trusted friend. Brought to Story county when still in his first
year, he has since remained within its borders and is widely and favorably
known.
LARS F. SESKE.
Success in farming, as in every other branch of business endeavor, only
comes to him who has the intelligence and capacity for industry to apply to
his chosen vocation in life, as is exemplified by the career of Lars F. Seske,
who, at the age of twenty-two years, started out in life for himself and
is today one of the successful and progressive agriculturists of Union town-
ship. There he was born April i8, 1864, a son of Jolin and Helga (Staat-
feit) Seske, both of whom were natives of Norway. The father was born
March i, 1826, his parents being Frederick and Eugene (Frederick) Seske,
who died in Norway. John Seske obtained such education as was avail-
able in the schools of his locality and later was apprenticed to the trade
of a shoemaker. Desiring to better his condition in life, for as a youth
he was very ambitious, he decided to come to America and made the ocean
voyage in 1857. Locating in New York city, he continued to follow his
early vocation for a period of three months, after which time he removed
to Racine, Wisconsin, where he secured employment in a shoe factory.
From here he went to Franklin county, Kansas, and in i860 came to Story
county, where he saw the agricultural advantages and purchased forty acres
of land. Here he continued to till the soil and by thrift and industry he
was able to add to his property, until his personal holdings amount to three
hundred and ninety-six acres in Union township, at the present time being
one of the largest landowners in Story county.
In 1858 John Seske was married to Miss Helga Staatfeit, and by this
union six children were born, namely : John ; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Oster-
man, living in Polk county, Iowa ; Nels H. ; Lars F. ; Carl L. ; Jacob S.
Mr. Seske has the unusual distinction of being the grandfather of thirty-
eight children. Mrs. Seske departed this life July 29, 1904. In politics Mr.
Seske has allied himself with the republican party and has served his town-
ship with faithfulness and unaltering loyalty in various public offices. In
his religious belief he is a consistent adherent of the Lutheran church.
The independent spirit manifested itself in Lars F. Seske when, shortly
after reaching his majority he rented and operated a farm on his own
account for two years, during which time he acquired invaluable knowledge
regarding the science of agriculture, profiting by this to such an extent that
30 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
he was able in 1888 to purchase the farm on which he now resides and
which consists of eighty acres. He is one of the progressive and well-to-
do men of the community and by virtue of his individual industry is now
reaping the benefits of his early efforts.
In 1891 Mr. Seske was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Johnson,
of Polk county, Iowa, whose father was John Johnson who came to this
country from Norway at an early day. To Mr. and Mrs. Seske were born
the following children: Mattie, Martin, Henry, Ella, Joseph, Frances, Eldon
and .Anna.
In politics Mr. Seske casts his vote with the republican jiarty. and in
religion he and his family are faithful members of the Lutheran church.
He is interested in everything that stands for the betterment of the com-
munity in which he resides and is always willing to give his support to
those projects which are working for the public good. He has the respect
and esteem of his ni.iny friends as a public-spirited citizen of Union town-
ship.
VVILL1.\M PIERCE PAYNE.
William Pierce Payne, the senior editor of the Nevada Representative,
will celebrate his eightieth birthday on December 22, 191 1, and Mrs. .Ada-
line Maria Payne, his wife, will celebrate her seventy-seventh birthday on
November 12. 191 1. They celebrated together their golden wedding at
Nevada on January 16, 1909. When their years are considered they are a
very exceptionally active couple, still giving daily attention to business and
current affairs and being ni the full enjoyment of most excellent health.
They have been identified with Nevada and Story county since 1875 and
this identification still continues, not merely as a courtesy but as a conse-
quence of present relation to people and events.
Mr. Payne was the second son of Samuel Pierce and Juliaeltc iBall)
Payne, and he was born in the south part of the town of Rutland. Jeffer-
son county. New York, on December 22, 1831. He grew up in the neigh-
borhood where he was born, much of his youth being si)ent with his uncle,
Henry M. I'.all. on an adjoining farm. He attended the district and vil-
lage school and about the time he was getting through his teens began
teaching in the ilistrict schools of the neighborhood. .After a few winters
of teaching he went to the New York State Normal School at Albany,
where he spent one year and was graduated in Fcbruarv, 1854. Subse-
quently he taught for two or three years at Sacketts 1 larbor on the eastern
shore of Lake Ontario, while in 1857 he went to Tufts College near Bos-
ton, Massachusetts, which he attended for two years. .At the end of this
period, in 1859. he completed his education and was ordained in the min-
istry of the Universalist church. His first pastorate was at Lynn, Massa-
w . !■ r \> \K
MRS. W. P. PAYNE
. HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 35
chusetts, and during the first year thereof he was married at South Rut-
land, New York, on January i6, 1859, to Adahne M. Brown. He took his
bride to Lynn, where their only son, William O., was bom May 7, i860.
The pastorate at Lynn closed in 1862 and after a year at Cambridgeport,
attending lectures at Harvard, he removed with his family to Clinton,
New York, where he became pastor of the Universalist parish and also
taught in the Clinton Liberal Institute, which was then a flourishing school
of the Universalist denomination. He remained for nine years at Clinton
and in 1872 removed to Nyack-on-the-Hudson, where he lived for two years.
In 1874 the removal west was made, the destination being Mitchellville in
Polk county, Iowa. At that place he had charge as principal of Mitchell
Seminary, which had been established as the school for the Universalist de-
nomination in this state and the main building of which has since become
the nucleus of the State Industrial School for Girls. After a year at Mitch-
ellville the family removed about thirty miles northward to Nevada.
The arrival at Nevada was in the fall of 1875. Mr. Payne had in the
previous spring been elected principal of the public schools at this place
and Mrs. Payne became an assistant in the high school. The time was
when the more enterprising towns of this class in Iowa were beginning to
organize regular high schools, and Nevada was just completing a fine new
brick school builcHng, suitable to its new and higher educational aspirations.
Indeed the completion was so delayed that school did not open until the
first \Veek in November; but in time the building was completed and the
school opened with much enthusiasm. Then for the first time was there in
the school here a definite course of study at the completion of which
diplomas of graduation would be given. The conditions were highly fa-
vorable for good work by teachers and pupils, and at the end of the second
year, in June, 1877, the first class was graduated, numbering nine. Five
years were spent by Mr. and Mrs. Payne in this work and in this time were
established relations with young people who have here and elsewhere made
their impress on aiTairs — relations which in a local sense have grown closer
and closer with all the passing years.
In 1880 the Paynes retired from the school here and Mr. Payne went to
Boone, where he gained his first initiation into newspaper work on the staff
of the Boone Republican. This initiation lasted for two years and at the
end of that time, in the summer of 1882, he returned to Nevada and bought
the Nevada Representative, the original newspaper in Story county and
one that has always been identified with the county.
Thus after only a brief intermission the residence of the Paynes in Ne-
vada was resumed. Mrs. Payne at once joined with her husband in his
newspaper work and a year later the only son returned from college and
became connecterl with the work also. With the increased force the work
gradually dift'erentiated, and the senior Payne gave his attention chiefly to
the business and to the outside interests of the paper. In this work he be-
came widely acquainted over the county. For nearly thirty years this work
36 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
has now continued ; the county has thickened ; the town has grown ; the in-
terests of all have progressed ; and in whatever has been for the general
advancement there has always been ready editorial and personal cooperation.
In respect to cooperation of this order for the general good, the rela-
tion of Mr. Payne to the Nevada public library deserves first mention.
Back in the time of his teaching days here the town had voted to establish
a public library and Mr. Payne had been on the first committee to select
books; also in the early 'cjos a local organization had been formed unoffi-
cially for the general purpose of boosting the library, and of this organiza-
tion Mr. Payne was the first and only president; so, when in 1894 a law
was enacted for the creation of a board of library trustees to have charge
of the library, he was named by William Gates, then as now mayor of Ne-
vada, as the first upon the new board. He was at once elected president of
the board and this position he has held continuously since. To the uplift-
ing work thus put in his charge he has given very much of time and
strength (not to mention other contributions) and in the development of the
library, in the housing of it in a splendid building (which was built wholly
from local resources) and in the finishing and furnishing of that building
he has always been a moving spirit. At the same time Mrs. Payne, as a
worker in the women's organizations and iiresident for several years of the
city federation of women's clubs, was assisting, while the need continued,
in raising money for the library and in making it what it is. In due time,
through the especial appreciation of Mri. Dillin, one of the library trus-
tees, and by action of the trustees, their portraits were conspicuously hung
in the library. From such antecedents it may be seen that when the time
came for the golden wedding of Mr. and .Mrs. Payne the event was cele-
brated in the ample parlors of the library and was an occasion memorable
among occasions of that kind. It was the occasion, significant above any
other, of the part they have borne in Nevada and of the local appreciation
of that part.
MRS. .\D.\LTXF M.\RI.\ P.XYNE.
Mrs. Adaline Maria Payne, wife of William P. Payne, was born Ada-
line M. Brown. She was the eldest daughter of Orville and Lovisa
( Phelps) lirown and was born at South Champion, Jeft'erson county. New
York, November 12, 1834. The place was just over the line from the town
of Rutland, in which her husband was born, and to that town her parents
removed while she was but a small child. Mer father's homestead was es-
tablished just outside of the village of Tylerville, which is officially known
as .South Rutland, and there she spent the years of her girlliood and youth.
She attended the local school and in the summer when she was fourteen
she taught her first term of district school. After that experience she
THE NSW YORK I
PUBLIC LIBRARY
A8TOR, LENOX AND
TILDEN FOL-NOAnONS.
x^l-^L^ei^
y.
THE N'^'.''' VOKK
PUBLIC LISKARY
A8T0R. LENO* »HB
• HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 41
taught regularly during the term of the summer schools and after a time
taught the winter schools also. In 1853-4 she also attended the State Nor-
mal School at Albany, being graduated therefrom in July, 1854. Later she
taught for a few years, much of the time in the city of Watertown, and on
January 16, 1859, she was married, as above stated, to William P. Payne.
She taught no more after the regular fashion for many years ; but her son
was home educated up to the high school, and after the family came west
she was matron of the seminary at Mitchellville during the year of their
residence there. As before stated, she also taught in the high school at
Nevada for five years, and during the residence at Boone she taught there
for one year. Beyond this, she taught in teachers' institutes four years in
New York in early womanhood and afterward taught in institutes for ten
or more years in Story, Boone and other counties in Iowa.
Returning to Nevada , she took part at first in the general work of the
newspaper, the Nevada Representative, but after a number of years she
came to give especial attention — along with the other work — to a depart-
ment for "Busy Women," which has now for many years been a recog-
nized feature of the paper. When the movement for the formation of
women's clubs reached Nevada she was one of the very first to become in-
terested and she was a charter member of the Nevada Woman's Club,
which was the first of the modern clubs to be organized in this city. With
the movement for federation of such clubs she attended as a delegate the
first state convention of the federation and was one of the first state officers.
Since then she has been many times a delegate to such conventions, and
later she was active in federating the different clubs in the city and was
long president of the city federation. Her interest in all such matters con-
tinues with slight, if any, abatement. She has been hardly less active than
her husband in behalf of the public library, as the highest concrete local ex-
pression of general educational progress ; and at her golden wedding in the
library parlors she wore the dress, necessarily remodeled, in which she had
been married fifty years before.
WILLIAM ORSON PAYNE.
William Orson Payne, editoi" of the Nevada Representative and com-
piler of the first volume of this history, is the only son of Mr. and Mrs.
William P. Payne and was born at Lynn, Massachusetts, May 7, i860. His
babyhood was spent at Lynn and at Cambridgeport, where the family lived
for only a short time, and his earlier boyhood was spent at Clinton, New
York, where he had some associations never to be forgotten. After two
more years of boyhood on the Hudson at Nyack his parents brought him
west to grow up with the country. There was a year at Mitchellville and
then the high school at Nevada. Two years in the high school and he grad-
42 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
uated as one of its first class of nine, of whom six remain in Story county
and five in or very near to Nevada. In the next year he clerked a few
monllis in a justice's office and completed his preparation for college. In
the fall of 1878 he entered the State University of Iowa at Iowa City,
where be it recorded that he was an active member of the Zetagathian Lit-
erary Society. Four years were spent in college in due course and he
graduated in the class of 1882. Returning to the university for another
year, he took his degree in law in 1883 and was admitted to the bar but
never entered the active practice. Instead he returned to Nevada and be-
came associated with his father anil mother in tlie publication of the Ne-
vada Representative. Always interested in public affairs, he has been a
quite voluminous writer of political editorials, many of which have been
more or less extensively quoted. He has held the local offices of justice
of the peace and member of the city council, has attended very many po-
litical conventions and has gained a considerable acquaintance in the state.
He was a delegate in 1900 to the republican national convention at Phila-
delphia which nominated McKinley and Roosevelt and has been frequently
mentioned in connection with the republican nomination for congress in the
seventh district of Iowa. He was assistant clerk of the general assembly
in 1888 and two years later was clerk of the committee on coinage, weights
and measures of the house of representatives through the famous fifty-first
congress. He has been for nearly thirty years on the Nevada Representa-
tive, is now fifty years of age and hopes that his best work is yet before
him.
He was married in Madison county. Iowa. December 15. 1886, to Miss
Jessie Dickens. They have one daughter, Jessie Bancroft Payne, who
graduated from the Nevada high school in 1905 and from the State Uni-
versity of Iowa in 1910.
JESSIE DICKENS PAYNE.
Jessie Dickens Payne, wife of William O. Payne, was the daughter of
William and Maria Ellen Dickens and was born at Linwood, Minnesota.
June 22, 1861. Her mother died while she was small and her father re-
moved from his farm to the neighboring town of .Xnoka. In 1869 the
family removed to Aurora, Illinois, and in 1875 tg Winterset, Iowa. After
two years at Winterset, the father's business having been burned out, the
family removed to Kansas ; but she and her older sister, Ella, remained in
Iowa and made their home with an uncle and aunt, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew
Downing of 'Boone. She attended tiie Boone high school and also spent n
year at Mt. Carroll Seminary at Mt. Carroll. Illinois. She taught country
schools in Story, Polk and Madison counties, her first school being the poor
farm school in this county. Later she accompanied the Downings to St. Jos-
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 43
eph and Kansas City, Missouri, and in 1885 returned to Madison county,
Iowa, where her sister Ella, then Mrs. C. C. Bancroft, resided. It was at
this sister's home that she was married, on December 15, 1886, to W. O.
Payne. Their home has since been in Nevada, though one year was spent in
Washington city. She also was a charter member of the Woman's Club and
she was the first president of the local chapter of the P. E. O. sisterhood.
She was for many years active in the affairs of the Ladies Nevada Ceme-
tery Society and it was during her presidency thereof that the society pur-
chased and conveyed to the city what is now the west half of the cemetery.
WILBUR F. SHAW.
\\'ilbur F. Shaw, a prominent and representative resident of Colo, was
appointed postmaster of the town on the nth of October, 1906, and has
ably served in that capacity to the present time. His birth occurred in
Columbus, Kansas, on the 17th of June, 1869, his parents being James W.
and Margaret (Zook) Shaw, who were natives of New Jersey and Indiana,
respectively. The father was a lad of six years when he accompanied his
parents on their removal to Indiana, in which state he grew to manhood.
Removing to Livingston county, Illinois, he was married in Fairbury, that
state, and there made his home during the following five years. He next
spent about ten years in Cherokee county, Kansas, and then returned to
Livingston county, Illinois, where he remained for some two years. On
the expiration of that period he took up his abode in Champaign county,
Illinois, residing there until 1892, when he came to Colo, Iowa, where he
has made his home continuously since. He was successfully engaged in
general agricultural pursuits throughout his active business career, but since
coming to Colo has lived retired. His wife was called to her final rest on
the 19th of August, 1 90 1, passing away in the faith of the Methodist Epis-
copal church. James W. Shaw was reared in the Quaker faith and still
adheres thereto but worships in the Methodist Episcopal church.
Wilbur F. Shaw was reared under the parental roof and attended the
common schools in the acquirement of an education. In 1891 he made a trip
to Iowa, having a brother, Frank E., who was at that time a resident of
Hubbard and in partnership with whom he purchased the grain elevator in
Colo. In January, 1892, his brother having assumed control of their eleva-
tor in Colo, Wilbur F. Shaw removed to this town and for five years the
two young men were prominently identified with the grain and lumber busi-
ness here. In 1897 Frank E. .Shaw withdrew from the business, selling his
interest to his brother-in-law, E. A. Binder, and the firm style of Shaw &
Binder was adopted. This relation was maintained until the ist of July,
1907, when the concern sold out to K. R. Frazier & Company, who are the
present proprietors of the enterprise. On the iith of October, 1906, Mr.
44 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Shaw was appointed postmaster of Colo, assuming the duties of that posi-
tion on the 1st of November following. He has served in that capacity
continuously since and is widely recognized as one of the efficient and popu-
lar public officials of Story county. A man of excellent business ability and
sound judgment, his efforts have also been a factor in the successful control
of the interests of the Colo Cement Block & Tiling Company, of which he
is a stockholder and acts as secretary and treasurer. He is likewise the
manager of the Colo Lighting Company.
On the 4th of October, 1896. Mr. Shaw was united in marriage to Miss
Myrtle E. Ilouser, of Colo. Her father, William Houser, who was for
many years a well known hotel proprietor of Colo, is now living retired in
Lyons, Colorado. Mr. and Mrs. Shaw now have si.x children, namely: Zola
M., .Aaron J., Virginia C, Norma L., Kenneth E. and Keith H.
Mr. Shaw gives his political allegiance to the republican party and has
served as a member of the town council for several terms. He is a member
of the present school board, having been connected therewith for several
years past. Fraternally he is identified with the Masons, belonging to Co-
lumbia Lodge No. 292. He is also a member of the Mystic Workers of the
World and for several years has been secretary of Logan Camp Xo. 1591,
M. W. A. Both he and his wife are consistent and devoted members of
the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Shaw now acting as trustee and treas-
urer thereof and having served on the church board of trustees for several
years past. Whatever he undertakes he accomplishes, for he possesses reso-
lution, perseverance and reliability and these qualities have caused liim to
be enrolled among the l>est citizens of the county.
ABRAM S. McCORD.
Abram S. McCord, one of the leading and successful residents of Col-
lins township, is the owner of two hundred and forty acres of Story county's
most valuable land and in addition to his farming interests devotes con-
siderable attention to the feeding of stock. His birth occurred in Collins
township, this county, on the 5th of March, 1857. his parents being Com-
modore Perry and Sarah E. (Smith) McCord, who were natives of Ohio
and Illinois respectively. The father, who came west to Iowa in early
manhood, took up his abode among the earliest settlers of Collins township.
Story county. .-\ review of his life is given in the sketch of Jacob W.
McCord, a brother of our subject, which appears on another page of this
volume.
Abram S. McCord was reared at home and acquired liis education in the
common schools. In 1879, when twenty-two years of age, he started out
as an agriculturist on his own account, operating the home farm as a renter
until his father's death in 1886, when the estate was settled. .'Subsequently
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 45
he purchased a tract of one hundred acres across the road from the home-
stead, residing thereon for about six years. On the expiration of that period
he traded the property for the old home farm, which had been acquired
by two of his younger brothers and on which he has hved continuously
since. The place comprises two hundred and forty acres and is one of the
most valuable farms in the county. Mr. AlcCord has recently erected a
very fine country residence and the other buildings afford ample shelter for
grain and stock. He is extensively engaged in the feeding of stock and in
the conduct of his agricultural interests has met with a gratifying measure
of prosperity by reason of his well directed energy and capable business
management.
On the 8th of February, 1882, Mr. McCord was united in marriage to
Miss Sarah E. Bowman, a daughter of William and Anna (Bare) Bow-
man, who came to Iowa in 1858, settling in Linn county. Later removing
to Woodford county, Illinois, they resided there for some years and then
returned to Iowa, locating in Marshall county. They next went to Polk
county and then came to Story county, here spending the remainder of their
lives. William Bowman passed away in January, 1905. while his wife was
called to her final rest in March, 1884. Unto Mr. and Mrs. McCord were
born five children, two of whom are yet living, as follows : Earl A., who
is employed in a drug store at Collins ; and Ralph D., at home.
Mr. McCord is a republican in politics and has held the office of town-
ship assessor for ten years. He is a member of the present board of town-
ship trustees, now serving his fourth term. Fraternally he is identified
with Fervent Lodge A. F. & A. M. ; Crescent Camp No. 2358, M. W. A. ;
and Fern Camp No. 2823, Royal Neighbors of America. His religious
faith is indicated by his membership in the United Brethren church, to which
his wife also belongs. He has resided in this county from his birth to the
present time and the circle of his friends is almost coextensive with the
circle of his acquaintances.
ALBERT H. LANDE.
Success in any branch of industry depends entirely upon the energy
and determination of him who seeks it. To these qualities Albert H. Lande
owes his present position as one of the substantial farmers and stock-raisers
of Union township. Born in Polk county, Iowa, October 8, 1868, he is a
son of George H. and Anna Lande, both natives of Norway. They emi-
grated to America while still in their youth and located in Kendall county,
Illinois, where they were married and continued to reside until the spring
of 1866, when they came to Iowa, and bought eighty acres of land in Elk-
hart township, Polk county. Subsequently Mr. Lande added to his posses-
sions until he had acquired two hundred and forty acres. Here he resided
46 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
up to tile time of his death, which occurred August 7, 1900. when he was
in his seventy- fourth year. His wife survives him and is still living on the
home farm.
Albert II. Lande passed his early youth at home, attending the public
school. Upon reaching his majority he, in company with his brother Henry,
assumed charge of the home farm, which they continued to operate until
the spring of 1903, when Albert removed to his present home in Union
township. Story county, which he and his brother Henry had purchased the
previous fall. Aside from general farming. Mr. Lande has given special
attention to the raising of hogs and cattle for the market and in this line
of business he has met with unqualified success.
On December 19. 1902, Mr. Lande was united in marriage to Miss
Josephine Lawson, who was born in Rock county, Wisconsin. In his politi-
cal preferment he gives his support to the republican party and takes an
active interest in the affairs of his community, being a member of the school
board. Both Mr. and Mrs. Lande are members of the Lutheran church.
ALBERT K. Ili:i.\"IG.
In tlic list of Story county's successful native sons must be placed the
name of Alliert K. Helvig, who w'as born in Howard township on the
23d of l-'cbruary, 1864. He is of Norwegian parentage, his father having
come to the United States from the Norseland in 1S60. He had been a
citizen of the United States for three years before he came to Story county
but in 1863 he located on a farm in Howard township and continued to re-
side there until he died in 1905, at the advanced age of seventy-seven years.
He was a .successful farmer and had acquired at the tiine of his death one
hundred and twenty acres of land. He married Isabelle Mucklcbush and
they became the i^arents of ten children, all but four of whom have now
passed away, Albert K. Helvig being the fourth in order of birth. The
father was a member of the Lutheran church and voted the roi)ul)lican
ticket. I le was a very public-spirited citizen and was well regarded in the
community where he had resided for so many years.
Albert K. Helvig's early years were sjjcnt in an unvaried routine of
study, work and play, which characterizes the boyhood and youth of most
young people who are reared in the country. .Xt the usual age he laid
aside his text-books to assume the weightier duties of life and, having
chosen farming as his occui)ation, assisted his father about the home place
until he had reached the age of twenty-two years, when he began to work
for himself. He had succeeded in accumulating sufficient means in 1890
to invest in land of his own and he bought one hundred and sixty acres in
Warren township, where he has since continued to live. His is one of the
valuable farms of the townshi]). He raises a good grade of stock, keeps
Ai.i;i:i;i' k. iiki.vk;
MRS. ALBERT K. HKIAKi
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 51
his property in good condition and from his fields reaps an abundant har-
vest, which yields him profitable returns. He is regarded as one of the
substantial men of the community as in addition to his realty holdings he
is a stockholder in the Farmers Elevator Company of McCallsburg and the
Roland Creamery.
In 1891 Mr. Helvig completed his arrangements for a home in his mar-
riage to Miss Mina Hanson, who was a daughter of Charlie Hanson, a
pioneer of Illinois, in which state Mrs. Helvig was born. They became
the parents of four children, three of whom are still living: Clarence,
Esther and Alina, all of whom are at home. The wife and mother passed
away in 1899.
The family always attended the Lutheran church, of which the parents
were members, Mr. Helvig still being identified with that denomination.
Ever since attaining his majority he has stanchly adhered to the principles
of the republican party. He has always taken an active interest in local
politics and has served in many of the township offices, the duties of which
he discharged to the satisfaction of his constituency. He is highly regarded
in the community where he has spent his entire life and retains the friend-
ship of many of his boyhood comrades, which is a tribute to his fine prin-
ciples of life.
HARRY PAUL iJANSON, M. D.
Prominent among the professional men of Story county is Dr. Harry
Paul Hanson, physician and surgeon, who for ten years past has been
located at Cambridge. He comes of good Norwegian parentage and was
born at Christiania, Norway, January 14, 1870, a son of Bernhardt and
Sophia Hanson. The mother passed away shortly after his birth and the
father remained in Norway until 1887, when he came to America and
located in Cleveland, Ohio. He was in the optical business in his native
country but was engaged in the mercantile pursuits at Cleveland for about
twenty years and is now living retired in that city.
Harry Paul Hanson remained at home until fifteen years of age, re-
ceiving his education up to that time in the common schools of the country
and at Christiania University. Being an ambitious lad, he decided to come
to the United 'States, and on August 5, 1885, he landed from a vessel in
New York city, being then only fifteen years of age, a stranger in a strange
land and with no knowledge of the English language. He felt the impor-
tance of larger educational training and, saving his money, he later became
a student in the Case School of Applied Sciences at Cleveland, one of the
most noted institutions of the kind in America, and took a course in civil
engineering. During the summer vacations he was employed as a nurse of
the Hon. James Hoyt, a Cleveland millionaire, and for five years he was
52 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
the personal attendant and companion of that gentleman, much of this time
being spent in traveling.
After the death of Mr. Hoyt our subject was persuaded by Dr. C. B.
Parker, professor of surgery at the Cleveland General Hospital, to take up
the study of medicine and while pursuing the regular medical course he
acted as assistant to Dr. Parker. Having been graduated with the title of
M. D. from the College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1897, he spent two
years in the Cleveland General Hospital acquiring a practical knowledge,
which has been of very great benefit to him in the years that have since
passed. lie began practice in 1899 at Glenville, Ohio, but in 1900 removed
to Cambridge, where he has since continued, soon gaining recognition as
one of the ablest physicians and surgeons in this section of the state. He
is at the head of a private hospital in Cambridge, where surgical cases are
treated according to the most modern methods, and is also surgeon for the
Milwaukee, Newton and Northwestern Railways.
On the 5th of October, 1900, Dr. Hanson was united in marriage to
Florence M. Lane, and their home has been brightened by the arrival of
four children, namely : Harry A., born October 9, 1901 ; Lester T.. born
July 30, 1904; Eugene W., born September 15, 1905; and Sidney L., born
November 15, 1907.
Fraternally Dr. Hanson is identified with the Knights of the Maccabees
and the Modern Woodmen of America, and he and his wife are both con-
nected with the United lircthrcn church. Politically he is a radical repre-
sentative of the republican party and has served one term as coroner of
Story county. Both as a professional man and as a citizen Dr. Hanson
occupies an enviable position in the estimation of the entire community.
P>cginning as a poor boy, he has overcome great obstacles and in doing so
gained habits of perseverance and a strength of character that are of in-
estimable value. His career is a remarkable illustration of the power of a
well defined purpose and in tiie opinion of his friends the future holds for
him nothing but the most brilliant promise of usefulness and honor.
ED^VIX R. SII.I.IMAX.
Edwin R. Silliman, an ex-banker of Colo, is now successfully engaged
in the real-estate and insurance business and enjoys an enviable reputation
as one of the leading and respected residents of the town. For the past ten
years he has likewise been one of the best known breeders of registered
shortlinrn cattle in the state of Iowa. His birth occurred in Whiteside
county, Illinois, on the 4th of June, 1871, his parents being Rothmer J. and
Lucy N. (Newman) Silliman. His paternal grandfather, Ira Silliman, was
a stone-mason by trade.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 53
Rothmer J. Silliman, the father of our subject, was born in the town of
Como, Whiteside county, Illinois, where he was reared to manhood. He
followed the profession of teaching for a time but later turned his attention
to general agricultural pursuits. About 1874 he went west to Nebraska
and engaged in the lumber business but, because of the grasshopper scourge,
left that state in the spring of 1877. Coming to Nevada, Story county, Iowa,
he purchased the lumber business of Judge Kellogg, the yard standing on the
present site of the Letts Hotel. Two or three years later he bought a half
interest in the West grain elevator and, renting the remaining half, em-
barked in the grain business, also removing his lumber yard to the site of
the elevator. He was prominently identified with the lumber and grain
business at Nevada until 1894, in which year he disposed of his
interests there. He was one of the organizers of the First National
Bank of Nevada, was elected its second president and served as
the chief executive officer of that institution for several years. His
principal object in coming to Nevada was to secure the advantages
of the schools at that place for his children. About a year after his
arrival in the town he was made a member of the school board and dur-
ing the remainder of his life labored untiringly and effectively in the inter-
ests of the public schools of Nevada. The public library building at Nevada
will also be a matter of much pride to future generations of the Silliman
family, for it was erected as a Silliman memorial building in honor of
Rothmer J. Silliman, showing the esteem in which he was uniformly held.
His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he served at
various times as a member of the town council. Fraternally he was identi-
fied with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, while his religious faith
was indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church. His
demise, which occurred on the 3d of February, 1896, was the occasion of
deep and widespread regret and a serious loss to the community. His
widow still survives and makes her home at Cedar Falls, Iowa.
Edwin R. Silliman was reared under the parental roof and supplemented
his preliminary education, obtained in the Nevada schools, by a course of
study in Simpson College at Indianola, Iowa. On leaving that institution
he returned to Nevada and for a time assisted in the conduct of his father's
business. Rothmer J. Silliman and his oldest son. Homer N., were operat-
ing a bank in Cambridge, this county, at the time of the panic of 1893,
when every financial institution in Cedar Falls failed with the exception
of one. Seizing the opportunity, they removed to that city and established
llie State Bank of Cedar Falls, Mr. Silliman of this review being sent to
Cambridge to look after the interests of the bank there. A year and a
half later our subject purchased the bank in association with Edgar John,
conducting it successfully until 1896. In that year he sold his interest to
his partner and came to Colo, here taking over the banking business of
P. W. Hopkins and establishing the Citizens Bank, which he conducted until
1002. In 1900 he purchased a farm of one hundred and twenty acres in
54 HISTURV OF STORY COUNTY
New Albany township, six miles southeast of Colo, stocked it with cattle
and hired a man to take care of it. In 1900 he was elected to the board
of county supervisors and served for two terms. In ilic fall of 1902 he
located on his farm and continued to reside thereon until the spring of
1907, when he took up his abode in Colo, employing a capable man to su-
pervise the operation of his farm. In ujoy. in association with Leo Arnf-
strong of Ames, Mr. Silliman was awarded the contract to build the county
bridges of Story county. In recent years he has been successfully engaged
in the insurance business and also deals in farm lands to some extent. For
the past ten years he has been one of the best known breeders of registered
shorthorn cattle in the state and has been a successful exhibitor at the
county fairs, the Iowa state fair and also at the International Stock Show
in Chicago. He has made it a point to exhibit only stock which he per-
sonally has bred and in his exhibits at the state fair and at the International
Show in Chicago he has never failed to win a premium. He has gained an
enviable reputation throughout the nation as a breeder of thoroughbred
cattle, and as a judge of cattle his services are in demand even as far dis-
tant as San Antonio, Texas. The American Shorthorn I'.reeders' As.socia-
tion numbers him among its valued members.
In 1894 Mr. Silliman was united in marriage to Miss Eva Erb, of Cam-
bridge, Story county. He is a republican in politics and has been called to
serve on the town council of Colo. He is identified with various fraterni-
ties, belonging to Columbia Lodge. A. F. & A. M.. of Colo; Three Times
Three Chapter, R. A. M. ; the Independent Order of Odd Fellows: the
Knights of Pythias ; the Modern Woodmen of .America ; and the Red Men.
He is also the oldest Elk in Story county, belonging to the lodge at Des
Moines. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Meth-
odist Episcopal church, in which he acts as steward and to which his wife
also belongs. They have the warm esteem and friendship of many with
whom they have come in contact and the hospitality of the best homes of
the locality is cordially extended them.
ARTHUR CER.\LU GI.AXX, M. D.
Dr. Arthur Gerald Glann, a practicing physician and surgeon of Colo,
Iowa, well deserves mention among the most able representatives of the
medical profession in this county. His birth occurred in Hinckley. De Kalb
county, Illinois, on the 8th of Sejjtcmber, 1875, his ])arents being James 1-".
and Phoebe (Ward) Glann. He comes of Scotch ancestry. The founder
of the Glann family in this country was part owner of a vessel which was
wrecked in a terrific storm while preparing to leave Turk island with a
cargo of salt bound for the Liverpool market. He was also possessed of
a title as lord of Vincent island but lost it when he was swept away by a
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 55
storm and never returned to claim the island. His vessel, being dismasted,
drifted around for weeks but he tinally landed at New York with a
single groat in his pocket. Finding immediate employment a necessity, he
went to work for a Dutch farmer of Kings Bridge, New York, one of
whose daughters he later married. Both of his sons, John and James, en-
listed in the Revolutionary army, serving under Generals Green and Wash-
ington. They participated in the battle of Long Island, where John lost
his life. James survived the conflict and took up a soldier's right on the
line between Sussex county. New Jersey, and Orange county. New York.
It was in the house which he built thereon that James F. Glann, the
father of our subject, was born and reared. Journeying westward to Ue
Kalb county, Illinois, the latter was there married and engaged in farming.
He became a man of influence in the community and for a number of years
acted as president of the board of county supervisors of De Kalb county.
In 1880 he came west to Iowa, locating in Plymouth county, where he made
his home for twelve or fifteen years. On the expiration of that period he
removed to Sioux City, Iowa, there living retired until called to his final
rest in igoo. He was a well informed man and an able public speaker. For
a time he was identified with the political movement of the greenback party
and afterward with the populist party. His funeral oration was delivered
by George W. Argo, the well known criminal attorney of Sioux City, who
was his close friend and spoke of him as one of God's great noblemen. He
read much, thought deeply and reasoned profoundly. Though not identi-
fied with any church or chained to any set form of worship, he was a true
Christian, the Sermon on the Mount being his creed and the meek and lowly
Nazarene his model and his guide.
Arthur G. Glann was reared under the parental roof, supplementing his
preliminary education by a course of study in the Le Mars (Iowa) Normal
College. He followed the profession of teaching for three terms and then,
having determined upon the practice of medicine as a life work, entered the
office of Dr. C. F. Kueny of Le Mars, under whose tlirection he read for
one year. Subsequently he entered the Sioux City College of Medicine,
from which institution he was graduated in 1898, having the honor of be-
ing chosen valedictorian of his class. He served an interneship of several
months in the Samaritan Hospital at Sioux City and then located in South
Dakota, where he remained for nine years, building up a large and lucrative
practice. In May, 1907, he came to Colo, Iowa, which town has since re-
mained the scene of his professional activities. He is continually promoting
his efficiency by study and research and keeps in touch with the most ad-
vanced methods of the profession through his membership in the Story
County Medical Society and the Iowa State Medical Society.
On the 7th of September, i8g8. Dr. Glann was united in marriage to
Miss Catharine B. Niland, a daughter of Michael Niland, one of Story
county's pioneers. The Doctor and his wife now have three daughters,
namely : Frances, Helen and Pauline.
56 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Dr. Glann is a republican in politics and was elected coroner of Stor>'
county in November, 1910. In religious faith he is a Catholic, while fra-
ternally he is identified with the Knights of Columbus, the Modern Wood-
men of America and the Mystic Workers of the World. In his chosen life
work he is making continued advancement, his patronage steadily growing
as he gives proof of his ability to cope with the complex problems that
continually confront the physician.
FRANK THOMPSON, M. D.
Dr. Frank Thompson, a prominent resident of Cambridge, was long and
successfully identified with the medical profession in Story county but dur-
ing the past four years has lived practically retired. Financial interests
have also claimed his attention and he is now the vice president of the
Citizens State r5ank. His birth occurred in Iowa Center, this county, on
the 14th of July, 1858, his parents being James and Harriet (Haines)
Thompson, Ixjth of whom were natives of Ohio. The father was born
in Perry county, while the mother's birth occurred in Licking county. They
were married at Granville, Ohio, in December, 1856, and the following
spring came west to Story county, Iowa, where Mr. Thompson had entered
land in 1855. He was a boiler-maker by trade as well as a stationary engi-
neer and was employed as engineer in a mill at Iowa Center when he
entered land in 1855. After removing to this county in the spring of 1857
he continued working in the mill for three years, on the expiration of which
period he took up his abode on his farm. To the further cultivation and
improvement of that property he devoted his time and energies until called
to his final rest November 4, 1896, winning a gratifying measure of suc-
cess in the careful conduct of his agricultural interests. His widow, who
still survives, now makes her home with our subject.
Frank Thompson was reared under the ])arental roof and obtained his
early education in the common schools. Subsequently he spent about two
years in the Central L'niversity at Pella, Iowa, and next took up the study
of medicine, reading fur two years under the preceptorshiii of Dr. P. W.
I'arrar, then of Iowa Center and later of Nevada, this county, .\ftcrward
he entered the medical <le|iartment fif the University of Iowa. comi)leting
the i)rescribed course in that institution with the class of 1882. Locating
for practice at Iowa Center, he there remained for nine years and in 1891
removed to Cambridge, where he lias resided continuously since. His prac-
tice continually grew in volume anrl im])ortance as he rlemonstrated his
skill and ability anfl he gained recognition .imong the most able and suc-
cessful physicians and surgeons of the county. I'our years ago. however,
he largely abatuloned the work of the profession and has since assisted only
in operations or acted in consultation with other physicians. He owns one
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 57
hundred acres of land which Hes ahnost wholly within the corporate limits
of Cambridge. He is also a prominent factor in financial circles as the vice
president of the Citizens State Bank and has long enjoyed an enviable
reputation as a leading and respected citizen of his native county.
In 1882 Dr. Thompson was united in marriage to Miss Ida B. Davis, a
daughter of John and Sarah (Grititith) Davis, who were natives of Ten-
nessee and Ohio respectively. They were married in Illinois and came to
Story county. Iowa, in 1868. Mr. Davis, who was a cooper by trade, con-
ducted a cooperage shop at Iowa Center until he passed away in 1874. His
wife, who still survives, afterward wedded \V. K. Wood, who is the oldest
living resident of Story county, now making his home in Iowa Center.
Dr. and Mrs. Thompson have three children, namely : Winifred, who is now
the wife of Lieutenant F. E. Overholser, of Plattsburg, New York; Mil-
dred, a teacher in the Cambridge public schools ; and James, who is in the
primary grades.
Politically Dr. Thompson is a stanch democrat, believing firmly in the
principles of that party. He has served for a number of years as a member '
of the school board and also acted as justice of the peace. A loyal and
public-spirited citizen, no matter which has for its object the substantial
upbuilding and progress of the community is refused his endorsement and
cooperation. He has attained high rank in Masonry, belonging to Taber-
nacle Lodge No. 452, A. F. & A. M. ; Joshua Chapter No. 127, R. A. M.,
at Ames ; Excalibur Commandery No. 13, K. T., of Boone, Iowa ; Gebal
Council No. 5, R. & S. M., of Ames; and Des Moines Consistory No. 3,
A. & A. S. R. Both the Doctor and his wife are consistent Christians, wor-
shiping in the United Brethren church. It is safe to say that he has as
many friends as any man in the county and all who know him are glad
to be numbered as such.
JOHN J. SEVERSON.
John J. Severson was born near Lisbon, Illinois, September 8, 1853,
a son of John and Betsy (Aspoland) Severson, of whom extended mention
is made in the sketch of Severt J. Severson on another page of this volume.
When our subject was two years old his parents removed to Story county,
Iowa, where he grew to manhood, his education being obtained in the public
school. When twenty-two years old Mr. Severson. in partnership with his
brother, Severt, rented and operated the home farm for seven years. Dur-
ing this time the brothers earned enough to buy the property, which con-
sisted of two hundred and forty acres, and a year after the marriage of
John J., a division of the land and stock was made, he acquiring one hun-
dred and twenty acres, upon which he began farming independently. Some
years later he disposed of his farm and purchased the place in Union town-
58 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
ship wliicli has since been his home, comprising one hundred and sixty
acres. He bought four hundred and eighty acres of land in Cavalier county,
South Dakota, but sold two quarter sections, retaining one hundred and
sixty acres.
On November 6, 1875, Mr. Severson was united in marriage to Miss
Lena Stenberg, a daughter of Hans Stenberg, who came to Iowa from
Norway some time in tlie '60s. To Mr. and Mrs. Severson the following
nine children have been born : Joseph, who is a farmer living at home ;
Henry, also a farmer located in Cloverly, Canada; George J. M. D., a prac-
ticing pliysician in Blairsburg, Iowa, and a graduate of Drake University;
Osmond, a farmer in Saskatchewan ; Severt B., at home ; Albert C, who
lives in Saskatchewan; Levi J., at home; Carrie B. and Milford C, both
at home. The three sons who arc in Canada own a section of land each,
besides which the three elder boys possess farms in North Dakota.
Politically Mr. Severson is a republican with strong inclinations toward
the prohibition party, as he is a firm believer in total abstinence. He is
public-spirited, takes an active interest in the affairs of his township and
has served as president of the school board for several years. In religion
he and his family are members of the Lutheran church.
ROTHEUS II.WWARD MITCHELL.
Among the honored citizens of Story county who have passed to their
reward and whose history is well worthy of a place in a permanent record
the name of Rotheus H. Mitchell deserves a prominent position. For many
years county surveyor and also filling other important public offices, he was
a man whose influence was clearly in behalf of the best interests of the
county and state, and the beneficial effects of his life are .still felt in the
region where he lived and worked for more than a third of a century.
He was born in Lyme, Grafton county. New Hampshire, January 4,
1823, a son of Horatio G. and Mary (.Ames) IMitchell. The father was
born at Bridgewater, Massachusetts, December 17. 1787, and the mother
at Groton, New Hampshire, October 6, 1794. They were married at Lyme,
December 11, 1817, ^^r. Mitchell havinj,' moved to that place with his father
about 1791. They lived in New Hampshire until 1836, then taking up
their residence at Parishville, St. Lawrence county. New York, where the
father died on the 3(1 of .\pril, 18^.7. the mother passing away on tlie 10th
of May following.
Rotheus Mitchell, the grandfather of our subject, was born in I'.ridge-
water, Massachusetts, in 1755 and was married there in 1783 to Hciihzihah
Hayward. They moved to New Hampshire about 1791, where he died
October 28, 1816, his wife departing this life June 9, 1848. He served in
the continental army, enlisting on the 19th of .April. 1775. and rore to the
I!. II. MIK IIKLI.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 61
rank of lieutenant, remaining in the service until late in the spring of
1781. He was the eighth son of Seth Mitchell, who was born in Plymouth
county, Massachusetts, in 171 5. and was married in 1738 to Ann Latham,
a descendant of Robert Latham, who married Susannah Winslow, a daugh-
ter of John and Alary (Chilton) Winslow. Seth Mitchell died in 1802.
He was the fifth son of Thomas Mitchell, who married Elizabeth King-
man in January, 1696. She was born in 1673 and was a descendant of
Henry Kingman, who came from Wales in 1632. Thomas Mitchell de-
parted this life in 1727. He was the second son of Jacob Mitchell, who
married Susanna Pope, November 7, 1666, and according to the records
settled in Plymouth, Massachusetts, but afterward moved to Dartmouth,
where he and his wife were both killed by Indians in July, 1675, at the
commencement of King Philip's war. The lives of their three children
were saved, as the children had been sent to the garrison the previous
evening. They were taken to Bridgewater and brought up by an uncle.
Jacob Mitchell's father, Experience Mitchell, came from Holland with the
Pilgrim fathers in the third ship, the Ann, in 1623. and settled at Ply-
mouth. In 163 1 he moved with Miles Standish to Duxbury and later to
Bridgewater. He had a share iji the first division of lots at Plymouth in
1623, he and George Morton together receiving eight acres. He also had
a share in the division of live stock among the colonists in 1627. He was
one of the proprietors of Bridgewater, also one of the company that pur-
chased the rights of the original proprietors of Dartmouth, Massachusetts.
His wife before her marriage was, Jane Cook, a daughter of Francis Cook,
and their family consisted of four sons and four daughters. One daughter
married James Shaw, another married George, Hay woods and a third be-
came the wife of John Washburn, one of the ancestors of the noted Wash-
burn family of the present day. Mr. Mitchell died in 1689. Many of his
descendants are now to be found in Maine, Massachusetts and also in
various other parts of the United States.
Rotheus H. Mitchell, the subject of this review, received his preliminary
education in the public schools and also became a student in St. Lawrence
Academy at Potsdam, New York. He learned the millwright's trade,
which he followed a number of years in the summer months, teaching in
the winter. However, he came to the conclusion that the west offered
special inducements to young men and in 1856 he entered the stream of
emigration that was then pouring across the Mississippi river and arrived
in Story county, Iowa, where he decided to establish his home. His abili-
ties soon met with recognition and he was appointed deputy county sur-
veyor, filling the position so acceptably that at the next election he was
elected county surveyor, which office he held four terms. In 1865 he was
elected county judge and in 1874 was again selected as county surveyor,
which position he held for many years. He passed away May 15, 1891,
having then attained the age of sixty-eight years and having for more than
thirty years been prominently connected with the county.
62 HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY
On the 27th of May, 1854, Mr. Mitchell was united in marriage to
Miss Herintha R. Mott, who was born at Keene, Essex county, New York,
in 1827, and was a daughter of Rev. Ebenezer and Berintha (Knapp)
Mott. Mrs. Mitchell having departed this life October 19, 1864. our sub-
ject was married in 1866 to Miss Hannah C. Bixby, who was born in Ogle
county, Illinois, April 15, 1848, and is a daughter of Benjamin and Mary
(Daniels) Bixby. Two children blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs. Mitch-
ell: Mary Pjerintha, who was born July 11, 1867. and died March 29,
1875; and Clara Maria, who was born January 24, 1870, and passed away
October 15 of the same year.
Mr. Mitchell was an adherent of the republican party from the time of
its organization as a national body in 1856 and an earnest worker in its
behalf. He was a man of high principles, unsw-erving in any cause that
he considered right. He was an outspoken advocate of temperance and a
stanch friend of public schools, believing the schools to be the bulwark of
the nation. His honesty and probity were unquestioned. He was gener-
ous almost to a fault and from him no needy or suffering fellow being was
ever turned away unassisted. In his wife he found a truly worthy and
able companion. She is now living at Nevada in the enjoyment of good
health and the acquaintanceship of a host of friends, to whom she has en-
deared herself hv inanv acts of courtesv and kindliness.
O. II. IlEGGER.
O. H. Hegger. a retired agriculturist residing in Cambridge, is now
serving as road supervisor of Union township. His birth occurred in Nor-
way on the Sth of April, 1857, his parents being Hans and Randa Hegger,
who crossed the .Atlantic to the United States in 1870. locating in Polk
county, Iowa. The father, who was a painter by trade, worked at that oc-
cupation during his active business career, passing away some six years
after his emigration to the new world.
O. H. Hegger, who was a youth of thirteen when he came to America
with his parents, attended the public schools of IxitJi this country and Nor-
way. When still very young he began work on a farm, thus early becom-
ing familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the agricul-
turist. Going to Des Moines wlien a youth of sixteen, he was there em-
ployed on a dairy farm for nine years. On the expiration of that period
he was married and, coming to Story county, here started out as an agri-
culturist on his own account. In the spring of 1883 he remo%'ed to Ballard
Grove, this county, operating a rented farm for five years, at the end of
which time he ]>urchase<l the property. Nine years later he disposed of tiie
place and took u]) his abode in Cambridge, cultivating land in the vicinity
of that town for four years, while during the next five years he resided on
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 63
a rented farm in Polk county. In 1906 he again came to Cambridge, where
he has since Hved retired, enjoying the fruits of his former toil in well
earned ease.
In March, 1882, Mr. Hegger was united in marriage to Miss Bertie
Xutson, by whom he had four children, three of whom still survive, namely:
Cora R. and William Howard, both at home ; and George J., who acts as
clerk in the office of the board of control at Des Moines.
i\Ir. Hegger is a republican in politics and is now ably discharging the
duties devolving upon him in the capacity of road supervisor of Union
township. Both he and his wife belong to the Lutheran church and take
an active and helpful interest in its work. The period of his residence in
this part of the state covers more than four decades and he has long en-
joyed an enviable reputation as a substantial and representative citizen of
the community.
JASPER COOK.
One of the stable and representative men of Union township, Story
county, and one who has done much to develop the welfare of his com-
munity is Jasper Cook, who has spent all his life on the farm which he
now owns, being born here February 6, 1869. His parents were John and
Lucy (Sears) Cook, the former a native of New York state and the latter
of Ohio, she coming to Story county with her parents in her youth. The
father, who was born in Lewis county. New York, August 15, 1835, arrived
in this county when he was twenty years old and purchased a farm in
Union township, the same one now owned by the subject of this sketch,
and here he spent the remainder of his life. He was most successful in
following the vocation of farming, and from time to time added to his
possessions until he had acquired some five hundred and twenty acres of
land. When he arrived in Cambridge, in October, 1855, the town consisted
of one shanty and an old sawmill. Mr. Cook was one of the first men to
use tile for draining and was also the first farmer to make use of a binder.
He was one of a party to raise the first liberty pole in Cambridge, which
act created such intense feeling that those who participated in it were
threatened with death. This excitement, however, caused by local feeling,
soon died away, and Mr. Cook was not molested. As an example of his
energy and thrift it may be stated that the land he owned was fenced with
rails split entirely by himself. In politics he was a republican but refused
to run for office, although urged to do so by his many friends. However,
having the interest of the community at heart he consented to serve as
school director, a position he filled with honor to himself and to the entire
satisfaction of the township. His death occurred December 29, 1893.
Jasper Cook, the subject of this sketch, attended the public schools of
Union township and upon attaining his majority worked in cooperation
64 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
with his father in managing the farm until his parent's death. Later he
added one hundred and ten acres to the estate, which now consists of three
hundred and twenty acres, besides which he owns town property in Cam-
briilge.
On November 14, 1894. Mr. Cook was united in marriage to Miss Cora
Harrison, a daughter of Henry J. and Mary J. (Graves) Harrison, who
came to Story county. Iowa, from Wisconsin about 1869. settHng in Union
township. Here her father died in 1894. but her mother is still living and
resides on the home farm. To Mr. and Mrs. Cook have been born six chil-
dren, as follows: Ava I.. Opal E.. Hazel F., Irma M.. Carmen R. and
Lester L.
In politics Mr. Cook gives his support to the republican party and has
served for several years as secretary and treasurer of the school board.
Socially he is a member of Cambridge Lodge No. 486, I. O. O. F. Mrs.
Cook is a consistent meniljcr of the Methodist Episcopal churcli.
ALBERT W. SOUTIiWICK.
Albert W. Southwick. who was successfully identified with general agri-
cultural pursuits during many years of his active business career, is still
the owner of almost two hundred acres of valuable land in Union township.
He is now living retired in Cambridge and is widely rccognize<l as one of
the leading citizens of the town. His birth occurred in Chautauqua county,
New York, on the 3d of .April. 1856. his parents being George D. and Char-
lotte E. (Robinson) Southwick. who were natives of New York and \'er-
mont, respectively. Their marriage was celebrated in the Empire state,
where the mother had gone with her ])arcnts. Early in the '60s Mr. and
Mrs. George Southwick removed to Winnebago county. Illinois, where they
resided for four years. On the expiration of that period they came to
Iowa, arriving in Story county on the 15th of November, 1867. Mr. South-
wick here purchased a farm but did not locate thereon, taking up his abode
instead at Cambridge. 1 le was a carpenter and wagon maker by trade and
conducted a shop of that character for a number of years. In 1879 lie was
appointed to the position of postmaster, ably serving in that capacity until
called to his final rest in 1883.
Albert W. Southwick was reared under the i)arental roof and obtained
his education in the common schools. He was a lad of eleven years when
he came w'ith his parents to Story county and has remained within its bor-
ders continuously since. When a youth of fourteen he began providing for
his own livelihood, hiring out to a farmer at a wage of ten dollars per
month. He worked for one man for a period of seven years and then
learned the barber's trade, following that occupation for about six years.
On the 24th of August, 1882. he was joincil in wedlock to Miss Irena M.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 65
Spar, of Ada, Ohio. For some years prior to his marriage he had dis-
charged the duties of deputy postmaster in connection with his barbering
business, and in September, 1883, he was appointed postmaster to succeed
his father, who had passed away. He filled the office acceptably until 1886
and in that year purchased a farm of one hundred and thirty acres in
Union township, two and a half miles west of Cambridge. The further cul-
tivation and improvement of that property claimed his time and energies
until 1909, when he put aside the active work of the fields and took up his
abode in Cambridge. While residing on the farm he extended its boun-
daries by additional purchase until it embraced one hundred and ninety-
seven and three-fourths acres. The property is still in his possession and
is now being operated by his son-in-law, Lewis B. Erickson.
Mr. and ]Mrs. Southwick are the parents of seven children, as follows:
Clarence W., who is a resident of Artesian, South Dakota ; Edith F., who
lives on her father's farm, which is being operated by her husband, Lewis
B. Erickson; Minnie C, a trained nurse in Mercy Hospital of Des Moines;
Pearl F., who is a teacher in the public schools of Story county; Ilo G., a
high school student ; George Leslie, who is in the primary grades ; and For-
est A.
Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Southwick has
supported the republican party, believing that its principles are most con-
ducive to good government. He has held the office of township assessor
for the past six years and was a candidate for reelection in the fall of 1910.
The cause of education has ever found in him a warm friend and for about
twenty-one years he furthered its interests as a member of the school board
in his district. His wife is a devoted and consistent member of the United
Brethren church. He has an extensive circle of friends throughout the
community, for his life has ever been upright and honorable and the mo-
tives which have guided his actions have been such as will bear the closest
investigation and scrutiny.
FREDERICK COOK.
The subject of this sketch is one of the enterprising and progressive
farmers of Union township, where he was born December 7, 1867, a son
of John and Lucy (Sears) Cook, of whom extended mention is made in
the sketch of Jasper Cook on another page of this volume. He remained
at home, assisting his father on the farm and obtaining his elementary edu-
cation in the district schools. After reaching his majority he continued 1
give his time and attention to agricultural pursuits in conjunction with his
father and at the latter's death acquired the homestead, which consisted of
eighty acres of improved land. To this Mr. Cook has from time to time
made additions, as his needs and facilities increased, and at the present time
o
66 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
is the possessor of two hundred and seventy-five acres in addition to a
small tract which he owns in partnership with his brother. He has never
married. He is a public-spirited citizen and is ever willing to give his
assistance to anything that will conduce to the welfare of the community.
In politics he is a stanch republican.
T. F. TJNGENFELTER.
J. F. Lingenfelter, a prominent resident of Collins, is a member of the
firm of Lingenfelter Brothers, one of the leading and best known mercan-
tile concerns of Story county, conducting stores at Collins and Maxwell,
Iowa, and one at Thayer, Kansas. His birth occurred in Warren county,
Iowa, on the 4th of April, 1857, his parents being George W. and Sarah
E. (Oilman) Ligenfelter, natives of Kentucky and Pennsylvania respect-
ively. Their marriage was celebrated in Indiana, where Michael Oilman,
the maternal grandfatlier of our subject, conducted a woolen mill, George
W. Lingenfelter entering his service as a commercial salesman. In 1855
Mr. Gilman established woolen mills at Palmyra, Warren county, Iowa,
w^here Mr. Lingenfelter was associated with him until about 1868. At that
time Mr. Gilman sold his business atPalmyra and removed to Summerset,
Iowa, where he erected flouring and w'oolen mills. On severing his business
relations with his father-in-law Mr. Lingenfelter took up farming in War-
ren county, also spending some time as clerk in the Palmyra stores. In
1880 he embarked in merchandising at Palmyra in association with his son,
J. F., the partnershi]) being maintained for about three years, when George
W. Lingenfelter retired, J. F. Lingenfelter continuing the business for some
three years longer.
On the expiration of that period our subject disposed of his mercantile
interests and began buying and selling horses in association with his brother,
W. E., being thus engaged until 1890. In January, 1891, the brothers came
to Collins and bought the mercantile establishment of Hidy Brothers, be-
ginning operations under the firm style of Lingenfelter Brothers. They
continued dealing in horses, however, J. F. Lingenfelter managing the mer-
cantile business and his brother the live stock interests. In IQ04 tliey pur-
chased the mercantile establishment of Miller & Miller in Maxwell, Mr.
Lingenfelter of this review assuming the management of both the Collins
and Maxwell stores. In 1905 they opened another branch store in Cam-
bridge, of which W. E. Lingenfelter took charge. Three years later, how-
ever, they disposed of thi.s store, trading it for Kossuth county land. In
the fall of 1910 W. E. lingenfelter opened a branch store at Thayer, Kan-
sas, and has since conducted the same. George W. Lingenfelter, the father
of our subject, came to Collins in 1 891 and was actively engaged in the
conduct of the business of Lingenfelter Brothers for fen years, in 1901
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 67
the Collins store was destroyed by fire, but J. F. Lingenfelter had previously
erected his present brick store building and, with the salvage that had es-
caped the flames, established the firm of Cooper, Halterman & Company,
his partners being two young men who had heretofore been in his employ.
It was Mr. Lingenfeher's intention to retire from active business here, but
Mr. Cooper died a year after the organization of the firm and for a year
and a half the business was conducted under the style of Lingenfelter &
Halterman. The senior partner then bought out his .associate and the con-
cern has since been known as Lingenfelter Brothers. In business affairs
Mr. Lingenfelter has always displayed keen judgment and excellent execu-
tive ability, and the success that he now enjoys is well merited.
In 1888 Mr. Lingenfelter was united in marriage to Miss Jennie Jami-
son, of Palmyra, Iowa, by whom he has two children, namely: George F.,
a graduate of the Capital City Business College at Des Moines ; and Harold
A., a high school student.
Mr. Lingenfelter exercises his right of franchise in support of the men
and measures of the democracy but has had neither time nor inclination for
office holding, having served only as a member of the first town council of
Collins. Fraternally he is identified with the Masons, belonging to Fer-
vent Lodge No. 513, A. F. & A. M. He is also a member of the Modern
Woodmen of America and the Yeomen of America. His life has been
most honorable and upright in its varied relations and his fellow citizens
instinctively pay deference to him because of what he has accomplished and
the principles which have governed his conduct.
NELS ERICKSON.
Nels Erickson, the proprietor of a livery barn at Cambridge, is- num-
bered among the representative and enterprising business men of the town.
His birth occurred in Lincoln township, Polk county, Iowa, on the 6th of
July, 1875, his parents being Barney and Bolette (Gabrielson) Erickson, na-
tives of Norway. His father was bom May 14, 1837, on a farm named
Stolb. at Etne, Norway, and there grew to manhood, being married October
28, 1862, to Miss Bolette Gabrielson. Coming to America in 1866, they
made their home for a short time in Nevada, Iowa, and next lived in Roland
for a couple of years. The following two years were spent in Story City
and from there they came to Cambridge which was their home for three
years at that time. . While living here Mr. Erickson purchased a farm south-
west of the town, in Polk county, where he lived for thirty-seven years,
returning to Cambridge in 1906. After his return he was in poor health
and passed away on the 4th of January, 191 1, honored and respected by all
who knew him. He was an earnest Christian man and a faithful member
of the First Norwegian church at Cambridge. To him and his wife were
68 HISTURV UF STORY COUNTY
born seven children, hut Mahnde, Gerhanl. Anna, Eric and Carrie are now
deceased, those still living being Lewis and Xels.
Nels Erickson was reared under the parental roof, attending the com-
mon schools in the acquirement of an education. On attaining his majority
he started out as an agriculturist on his own account, cultivating rented land
in Polk county for live years. On the expiration of that period he took a
milk route, hauling cream to the creamery for eighteen months. At the
end of that time he came to Cambridge, being here engaged in the imple-
ment business for two years. In 1905, in association with his brother Lewis,
he purchased the livery barn in Cambridge, the two young men operating
together for four years or until 1909. In that year our subject purchased
his brother's interest and has since remained the sole proprietor of the busi-
ness, enjoying an extensive ])atronage because of his straightforward deal-
ings and earnest efforts to please his patrons.
In politics Mr. Erickson is a republican, while his religious faith is in-
dicated by his membership in the Lutheran church. Upright and honor-
able, he commands the respect and confidence of those with whom he is
brought in contact, either in business or social relations, and he well merits
the esteem in which lie is uiiiiormlv held.
SAM 11. TWEUT.
Sam IT. Twedt, one of the prominent citizens of \\'arren township.
Story county, and vice president of the McCallsburg State Dank, was born
in Howard township on the ist of August, 1867, being therefore a native
of Story county. He is the son of Hans J. and Julia (Erslandl Twedt,
both of whom were natives of Norway, but they were married in this
county in i860. The father caine to the United States in 1854 but did. not
locate in Story county until two years later, at which time he purchased
one hundred and sixty acres of land, cultivating it up to the time of his
death in 1901. He was an energetic man and a good manager, and was a
religious man, being very instrumental in organizing the Lutheran church
at Roland, Iowa.
Mr. and Mrs. Hans J. Twedt were tiic jKirents of eleven children, seven
of whom are still living: Abel, a resident of Warren township; Jane, who
married Lars Amdall ; Joe H., of Story county; Sam II.; .-\ndrew IL, who
lives in Hamilton county; Henry, also residing in Hamilton county; and
Julia, the wife of Olaus Osheim. The father passed a-way in 1901 at the
venerable age of seventy-.sevcn years, but the mother is still living and con-
tinues to reside on the old hotnestead. Mr. Twedt always gave his support
to the republican party but was never an office seeker. He was highly re-
garded in the townshij) where he lived, his industry and upright life com-
manding the respect of all who knew him.
mi;. AM) \ii;s. s \\i II, I w i;i)i'
.MK8. AIJ( E TWKin
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 73
Sam H. Twedt spent the first twenty years of his Hfe on the home-
stead in Howard township, in the district schools of which township he
acquired his education. When he had completed his school course he as-
sisted his father with the work of the farm and this arrangement continued
until 1887, when the young man decided to begin working for himself. He
first engaged in farming as a renter in Emmet county, where he remained
for two years but at the end of that time he returned to Story county and
rented a farm which he cultivated for five years. Untiring energy, perse-
verance and economy won the usual reward and at the expiration of that
period he was able to become a property owner and invested his accumu-
lated savings in one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 4. Warren
township. Careful supervision and close application resulted in his adding
another eighty acres in 1900 and eight years later he annexed by purchase
a similar amount, so that he now possesses one-half section of some of
Story county's most fertile and valuable land. In addition to his extensive
real-estate interests Mr. Twedt is a stockholder and official of the McCalls-
burg State Bank, a director of the Farmers Creamery Company of the
same place and a stockholder of the Farmers Savings Bank of Roland,
Iowa.
Mr. Twedt has been married twice, his first wife being Miss Alice
Christian, the daughter of John Christian, and unto them were born three
children: Herman J., Cecilia and Helen, all at home. The wife and mother
passed away in 1901 and the father holds in trust for his children two
hundred and forty acres of land, the mother's portion of her father's es-
tate. His present wife was Miss Hattie Krohn, who was born in Story
county in 1881, a daughter of Hans and Annie (Sadvig) Krohn, both of
whom were natives of Norway. They emigrated to the United States in
1870 and came directly to Story county, where they still reside. They
were the parents of five children, Mrs. Twedt being the second in order
of birth. Mr. and Mrs. Twedt have one little son, their only child, Allis.
Mr. Twedt votes the republican ticket and has been honored by being
elected township trustee, which office he has held for two years. He is
one of the older residents of Story county and is in every way worthy of
the regard in which he is held in the community where he lives.
RALPH E. MARSH.
Ralph E. Marsh, one of the leading merchants of Story county, conducts
an extensive business at Collins as a dealer in furniture and carpets and
also handles agricultural implements. In addition to his interests in this
connection he is likewise the proprietor of an undertaking establishment.
His birth occurred near Oskaloosa, Iowa, on the 8th of December, 1866.
his parents being Lewis W. and Laura A. (Hartpence) Marsh, the former
74 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
a native of England and the latter of Indiana. Lewis W. Alarsh emigrated
to the United States with his parents when a youth in his teens, the family
home being established in Stephenson county, Illinois. Becoming a carpen-
ter's apprentice, he thoroughly familiarized himself with the trade and fol-
lowed it until the outbreak of the Civil war. Offering his services to the
Union, he served the country for a short time as a carpenter. Soon after his
return from the war he journeyeil westward to Marshall county, Iowa, and
there wedded Miss Laura Ilartpence, who had accompanied her parents
on their removal from Indiana to this state. Following his marriage he
took up his abode on a farm near Oskaloosa, residing thereon for about two
years. He next followed farming in Marshall county for a similar period
and then came to Story county, purchasing three hundred and five acres of
land one mile east of Collins and ojierating the place until he put aside the
active work of the fields about 1897. l"or a period of five years he lived
in Collins and in 1902 removed to Pasadena, California, where both he and
his wife have since made their home, enjoying the fruits of their former
toil in well earned ease. Mr. Marsh still retains two hundred and sixty-
five acres of his land in Collins township, which is generally known as the
garden spot of Story county. Tie and his wife are consistent and devoted
members of the Methodist Episcopal church, exemplifying its teachings in
their daily lives.
Ralph E. Marsh was reared under the parental roof, attending the pub-
lic schools in the ac(|uiremcnt of an education. On attaining his majority
he started out in life for himself as an agriculturist, renting and operating
the home farm for three years. On the expiration of that period he pur-
chased and located on a tract of one hundred and twenty acres on section 2,
Collins township, there carrying on agricultural pursuits for about ten years.
In 1901 he left the farm and took up his abode in Collins, where a year
later he established the business which he now conducts and which has since
assumed extensive and profitable proportions. In connection with his in-
terests as a dealer in furniture and agricultural implements he also conducts
an undertaking business, for which he is well (jualified, being a 1909 grad-
uate of the Hohenschuhe Carpenter School of Embalming of Des Moines,
Iowa. He is careful in formulating plans, is determined in their execution
and displays keen foresight in managing his varied interests.
In 1891 Mr. Marsh was unitctl in marriage to Miss Edith Black, a
daughter of James Black, a ])rominent farmer of Lee county. Illinois. Unto
our subject and his wife were born five children, four of whom still sur-
vive, namely: Hazel M.. Harold. Kenneth T. and Glenn B.
.Since age conferred upon iiim the right of franchise Mr. Marsh has
supported the men and measures of the republican ])arty. He is a member
of the present town council of Collins, having been identified therewith for
seven consecutive years. In fraternal circles he is well known, belonging to
Fervent Lodge No. 513, A. F. & A. M. ; Amity Lodge No. 361. I. O. O. F. ;
Crescent Camp No. 2358, M. W. A.; and Collins Homestead No. 365, Yeo-
HISTORY OF STORY COUiNTY 75
men of America. Both he and his wife are connected with the Eastern
Star and the Rebekahs. They are well known in Collins and have an ex-
tensive circle of warm friends, who esteem them highly for their many
excellefit traits of character. Mr. Alarsh has made steady progress in his
business career and, placing his dependence upon the safe, substantial quali-
ties of diligence and perseverance, has gained a goodly measure of success
and moreover has won a most honored name.
HENRY YEAGER.
Henry Yeager, a prominent and well known resident of Colo, is the
cashier and business manager of the Colo Savings Bank, having served in
that capacity since November, 1909. His birth occurred in Switzerland on
the 3d of December, i860, his parents being Florian and Maria (Haus-
wirth ) Yeager, who were likewise natives of that country. The father was
a silk worker, being employed in the silk mills in the town of Chur, Switz-
erland, and later in Paris, France, where he spent some years. Later he
returned to his native country and there passed away. In 1865 Mrs. Yeager
emigrated to the United States in company with her only child, Henry,
locating in Buffalo county, Wisconsin, where her demise occurred four
years afterward.
Henry Yeager, who was but a lad of eight when his mother died, was
reared by an uncle, Josias Florin, remaining with that gentleman until he
had attained the age of nineteen years. At that time he took up the study
of telegraphy and was employed by the Western Union Telegraph Com-
pany for three years, on the expiration of which period he entered the serv-
ice of the Chicago & Northwestern Railway Company. After a temporary
location of more than a year in Bertram and Lowden, Iowa, he was made
agent at Colo, holding that position for twenty-five and a half years. This
fact in itself speaks volumes for his capability and fidelity in the discharge
of the duties devolving upon him. In November, 1909, he was appointed
cashier of the Colo Savings Bank and tendered his resignation to the North-
w'estern Railroad Company. It is one of the conservative and substantial
moneyed institutions of this part of the state and its success is attributable
in large measure to the efforts, the executive ability and the enterprise of
Mr. Yeager, and his son, who has been assistant cashier for the past six or
seven years, and also Mr. D. F. Bartlett, who was Mr. Yeager's prede-
cessor.
In July, 1884, Mr. Yeager was united in marriage to Miss Anna Weber,
of Waumandee, Wisconsin, by whom he has two children : Charles W., as-
sistant cashier of the Colo Savings Bank ; and Florian J., who is attending
the Colo high school.
76 iilSTUKV Ul' STURV CUUXTV
In politics Mr. Ycager is a republican and liis fellow townsmen, recog-
nizing his worth and ability, have called him to several positions of public
trust. He has served as mayor of Colo for six years and acted as a mem-
ber of the town council for a similar period. For the past fifteen years he
has been a member of the Colo school board and is now serving as its
president. Fraternally he is identified with the Masons, belonging to Co-
lumbia Lodge. Xo. 292. A. F. & A. M., and Three Times Three Chapter.
No. 92. R. A. M. He likewi.se belongs to Colo Camp. Xo. 1591. M. W. A.,
while his religious faith is indicated by his membershi]) in ilie Christian
church, with which his wife is also affiliated. Mr. Veagcr is faithful in all
his duties as a citizen and wields a forceful influence in his community, in
all parts of which he is highly respected.
S. S. HAXSOX.
S. S. Hanson, one of the best knnwn and most prosperous residents of
Story county, is the ])roprictor of the Meadow Lawn Stock Farm, embrac-
ing five hundred and fifty-seven acres of land in Collins township, lie is
likewise a prominent factor in financial circles, having served as president
of the Exchange State Bank at Collins since its organization. In public life,
too, his intUicncc has been felt and he is now ably discharging the duties
devolving upon him as county supervisor. His birth occurred in Jasper
county, Iowa, on the 25th of September, 1864, his parents being Hans and
Mary (Ashton) Hanson, the former a native of Xorway and the latter of
Muskingum county, Ohio. When still but a boy Hans Hanson accomi)anie(l
his parents on their emigration to the United States, the family home being
established in Illinois. He grew to manhood in that state and in 1849
joined the "fortune hunters" who were flocking to California in search of
gold. Crossing the plains with an o.x team, he remained in California for
about four years but met with only average success. Being next attracted
to the .'Xustralia gold fields, he also spent about four years in that country
with excellent results. It was with the intention of investing his money in
Illinois farm lands that he returned to that state, but believing the price too
high for profitable investment, he came to Iowa, purchasing and locating on
a quarter section of land in Clear Creek townshi]), Jasper county. In that
township he made his home throughout the remainder of his active business
career, being successfully engaged in general agricultural pursuits. On put-
ting aside the active work of the fields he took up his abode in Collins,
where his demise occurred late in the ''m^s. His wife was called to her
final rest about two weeks later.
S. S. Hanson remained with his parents until about twenty-four years
of age, when his father removed to Collins, leaving him in charge of the
home farm. In partnership with his brother George he operated the place
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 77
as a renter for three years and then purchased the farm, continuing to re-
side thereon during the next six or seven )'ears, at the end of which time
he sold it to his brother, who had just been married. On leaving the home
farm Mr. Hanson of this review purchased and located upon what was
known as the Bricker estate of two hundred and forty acres, which lies
within the corporate limits of the town of Collins. From time to time he
has extended the boundaries of this place by additional purchase until it
now embraces five hundred and fifty-seven acres of land, all of which is
under a high state of cultivation. The buildings which he has erected
thereon are the finest in Story county and the farm is one of the best im-
proved within its borders. Mr. Hanson was for a number of years an ex-
tensive buyer and shipper of stock, but more recently has given his attention
largely to his farming and stock feeding interests. He personally super-
vises the operation of his entire farm, hiring three married men as assist-
ants throughout the year. He was one of the prime movers in the organ-
ization of the Exchange State Uank of Collins, was chosen president of the
institution and has served in that capacity continuously since.
On the i/th of June, 1894, Air. Hanson was united in marriage to Miss
Minnie P. Mead, a daughter of Charles Mead, now deceased, who was one
of the most widely known and successful farmers and stockmen of Story
county. Unto our subject and his wife have been born six children,
namely : Mabel, Charles, Lester, Dorothy, Mary and Margaret.
In politics Mr. Hanson is a republican and his fellow townsmen, recog-
nizing his worth and ability, have called him to positions of public trust.
For several years he has served as a member of the school board and town
council. He was elected to the board of county supervisors in November,
1910, and has already proven himself an able incumbent. Always a resi-
dent of this part of the state, he is widely and favorably known and the
fact that many of his stanchest friends have been his acquaintances from
boyhood indicates that his has been an upright and honorable career.
JOHN W. JOHN.
John W. John, a retired agriculturist residing in Maxwell, was for
many years actively and successfully identified with farming interests in
Story county, thus winning the competence which now enables him to spend
his declining years in well earned ease. His birth occurred in Carroll
county, Indiana, on the 14th of September, 1837, his parents being Bowen
W. and Cynthia Ann ( Todd ) John, who were natives of Pennsylvania and
Kentucky respectively. They came to Iowa in 1853, settling near Ottumwa,
Wapello county, where they remained for one year. On the expiration of
that period they took up their abode in Allamakee county, while the year
1857 witnessed their arrival in Story county. In the fall of 1859 Bowen
78 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
W. John removed to Kansas, his son John having previously made his way
to the Sunflower state. Because of the disastrous drought in the summer
of i860 he returned to Iowa, locating at Iowa Center, Story county. His
wife died during the following summer and he tlien took up his abode in.
Indiana, remaining in the Hoosier state for a year. At the end of that time
he once more came to Story county, here continuing to reside until called to
his final rest in 1878, wdien he had attained the age of eighty-one years.
John W. John was reared under the parental roof, attending the com-
mon schools in the acquirement of an education. His opportunities in this
direction were but limited, for he was able to attend school for only two or
three months each winter. The little "temple of learning" was a log struc-
ture, with slab benches, puncheon floor, etc. Despite his early disad-
vantages, however, Mr. John has become a well informed man. constantly
augmenting his knowledge by reading, experience and observation. When
not busy with his text-books he assisted his father in the work of the home
farm, thus early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to
the lot of the agriculturist. At' the age of twenty-two years he was married
and started out as an agriculturist on his own account. He began farming
in Indian Creek township. Story county, cultivating some land which be-
longed to his wife. Subsequently he purchased a tract of fifty-three acres
and as his financial resources increased, owing to his untiring industry and
capable management, he added to his holdings from time to time until they
embraced five hundred acres of rich and productive land. He recently dis-
posed of a quarter section but still owns the home farm of three hundred
and forty acres ; a tract of eighty acres in Polk county, five miles south of
Cambridge ; and two hundred and seventy-eight acres in Oklahoma. In the
spring of 1891 he put aside the active work of the fields and removed to
IMaxwell, there residing for four years. On the expiration of that period
he took up his abode in Camliridge, where he made his home for fifteen
years. In September, 1910, he returned to Maxwell, where he is now living
in honoral)lc retirement, enjoying all of the comforts and many of the lux-
uries of life. He owns a handsome home in Maxwell and also has a resi-
dence in Cambridge. His labors as an agriculturist were attended with a
gratifying measure of success and he has long been numbered among the
substantial and respected citizens of the county.
In March, i860. Mr. John was united in marriage to Miss Sarah I. Hell,
a daughter of John J. and Sarah (Kelly) Bell, of Nevada. To them were
Iwm eight children, as follows: Marion Edgar, who is a resident of Mus-
kogee, Oklahoma; Charles C, living in Council Hill. Oklahoma; Carrie
Blanche, the wife of A. L. r..utlett. of l.eola. South Dakota; Ida M., who
is the wife of C. M. Webb an.l resides on her father's home farm; John
Willard, of Muskogee. Oklahoma; Anna R., who is the wife of John Bowen
.111(1 likewi.se resides on her father's farm; Fred M., living in Muskogee,
Oklahoma; and Esther 1'.., wlio is with her parents.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 79
In politics Mr. John is a stanch prohibitionist, having done all in his
power to promote the strength of that party and kill the liquor traffic,
which he believes is the worst evil with which our country has to contend.
There were but four or five prohibitionists in Maxwell when he came here
and now there are twenty-eight. He and his wife are of the Evangelical
faith but as there is no congregation of that denomination here, they wor-
ship in the Methodist Episcopal church and Mr. John was class-leader for
twenty-five years. He enjoys a wide acquaintance in the county where he
has so long resided and, as all who know him entertain for him high re-
gard, his friends are legion. His thoughts are not retrospective but are
concerned with the afifairs of the day, and to him are applicable the words
of Victor Hugo that while "the frost of winter is on his head, the flowers
of spring are in his heart."
GEORGE HARDENBROOK.
George Hardenbrook, who was appointed postmaster of Maxwell in
May, 1897, and has served continuously since, was born in Wawaka, Noble
county, Indiana, on the 2d of August, 1843, his parents being Freeman and
Sarah (Gibson) Hardenbrook, the former a native of Ohio and the latter
of Virginia. They were married in Noble county, Indiana, where they had
gone as children with their respective parents, both the Hardenbrook and
Gibson families being among the early pioneer settlers of that county.
Freeman Hardenbrook followed farming in Noble county, where the de-
mise of his wife occurred. In 1869 he came to Iowa, purchasing and lo-
cating on a small farm in Jasper county, where he made his home until
called to his final rest in March, 1882, when sixty-three years of age.
George Hardenbrook was reared at home, acquiring his education in
one of the primitive log schoolhouses characteristic of those early times.
On the i2th of October, 1863, he became a member of Company B, Twelfth
Indiana Cavalry, serving with that command until the cessation of hostili-
ties between the north and the south. He did detail duty as dispatch
bearer during almost the entire period and was mustered out on the 19th
of June, 1865. After returning from the war he worked on the home
farm in Noble county for two years and then came to Iowa, arriving in
this state on the 5th of May, 1867. For a year or more he was employed
in a store at Peoria, Polk county, and at the end of that time went to Iowa
Center. There he remained for twenty-three years in the service of the
firm of Baldwin & Maxwell, one of the largest mercantile concerns in that
section of the state. In i8gi he came to Maxwell, Story county, and was
here employed in the mercantile establishment of C. H. Dickey for a num-
ber of years. In May, 1897, he was appointed postmaster of Maxwell, in
which capacity he has served continuously since, discharging the duties
80 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
devolving upon him in this connection in a most prompt and efficient man-
ner.
On the lOth of December, 1869, Mr. Hardenbrook was united in mar-
riage to Miss Addie Wells, a daughter of Charles and Sarah (Park) Wells,
who were born, reared and married in Xew Jersey. Subsequently they
removed to Bureau county, Illinois, where they remained for some years,
coming thence to Story county, Iowa, and taking up their abode among the
early settlers here. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hardenbrook were born eight
children, five of whom are yet living, as follows: Frank J., a resident of
Chicago, who is a baggagemaster on the Milwaukee Railroad running be-
tween Chicago and Omaha; Jennie, the wife of L. G. Merrill, of Xeola,
Iowa; Harry F. ; Joseph II., a telegraph operator at Little Falls, Minne-
sota; and Clyde G., assistant postmaster at Maxwell, Iowa.
In politics Mr. Hardenbrook is a stanch republican, believing that the
principles of that party are most conducive to good government. He still
maintains pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his mem-
bership in James II. Ewing Post, No. 305, G. A. R. His wife is a de-
voted and consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr.
Hardenbrook has been a resident of Maxwell for two decades and enjoys
a wide and favoraI)le acquaintance here.
iM.\K)R El'llKAl.M HIX.
On the roll of Story county's honored dead appears the name of Major
Ephraim liix, who for many years was closely associated with the farming
interests and later with the real-estate and abstract business of this part of
the state. Energj- and determination ever characterized him in his business
career and he worked his way steadily upward to success, enjoying at the
same time the honor, confidence and respect of his fellowmen.
He was a native of Alabama Center. Genesee county. Xew York, his
birth])lace being near the Erie canal and the celebrated roadway from Lewis-
ton to Lock])ort. Xew York. He was born October 28, 1839, and was the
eighth in order of birth in a family of nine children, eight of whom reached
adult age. He came of most creditable ancestry, the line being traced back
on the paternal side to one who was a member of Lord lialtimcire's colonv in
Maryland, while in the maternal liiK' be is descended from the Pilgrims who
first settled Xew England. In ilie year 1848 he removed westward with his
parents to De Kalb county. Illinois, ijcing then a lad of nine years. He
pursued his education in the public schools and afterward in Mount ^forris
.Academy, largely meeting the expenses of his college course bv leaching or
other kinds of labor during vacations. He subsequently attended Wheaton
College. Eventually he engaged in business on his own account in -Syca-
more. Illinois, and he also made several trips to California in the in'ercst of
MAJOR E. HIX
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 83
commercial enterprises engineered by his brother Seymour or himself. He
made his first trip across the plains in 1861 — a trip involving much hardship
for that day. He was absent for about a year and then returned by way of
the isthmus of Panama and by steamer to New York.
Major Hix was married at Sycamore, Illinois, December 7, 1864, to Miss
Susan Ancelia Ring, who for more than forty years was a faithful and help-
ful companion to him. sharing with him in all of the joys and sorrows, the
adversity and prosperity which came to him.
In 1869, influenced largely by health considerations, he disposed of his
De Kalb county interests and came to Iowa, settling on a farm in Richland
township. Story county. That place remained the family home until 1883,
when it became evident that Mr. Hi.x could no longer endure the hardship
and exposure of farm life and he took up his abode in Nevada. Here he
became a partner of M. C. Allen in the real-estate and abstract business.
This relation was in force without intermission or disagreements to the time
of his death, or for a period of nearly twenty-two years. He enjoyed to the
fullest extent the high regard and confidence of his fellow townsmen, who
recognized his worth and frequently honored him with local offices. He was
a member of the city council in 1895 and 1S96, and in 1897 and 1898 filled
the office of mayor, giving to the city the benefit of his broad business ex-
perience and public spirit. In both positions he discharged his duties to the
satisfaction of the public.
As previously stated. Major Hix was married in 1864 to Miss Susan
Ancelia Ring. She was born in Huntington, Chittenden county, Vermont,
June 30, 1840, and was but seven years of age when she accompanied her
parents to Wheaton, Illinois, where she resided up to the time of her mar-
riage. She pursued a course in the Wheaton College and afterward engaged
in teaching school for nine years. Her people were among the pioneer
settlers of Wheaton but her parents, Greenleaf and Betsey (Bunker) Ring,
where natives of New Hampshire. Their last days were spent in California,
to which state they removed in 1869. Their family numbered six children,
three sons and three daughters. Her brother. Professor Orvis Ring, grad-
uated in the first class from Wheaton College fifty years ago and his whole
life has been devoted to teaching, while his means have largely been given
to the education of poor boys. He was superintendent of the public schools
of Reno, Nevada, for seventeen years, was county superintendent of schools
for a number of years and state superintendent for twelve years, filling the
last named position at the time of his death, which occurred September 19,
1910. Mrs. Hix has long lived in this part of the state. She was residing
at Wheaton when the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad was completed and
she saw the first train which passed through that place. As the years have
come and gone she has witnessed many changes in Illinois and Iowa as
these comparatively unimproved and undeveloped states have been trans-
formed into extremely productive regions, taking leadership among the agri-
cultural states of the Union.
84 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
The death of .Major Hix occurred May 13. 1905, when he had reached
the age of sixty-five years, six months and fifteen days. One of the local
papers said of him: "As a man, Mr. Hix bore an unblemished name. He
inherited good mental powers which were well disciplined in the schools and
enriched by reading, travel and observation. He was well informed on the
questions of his time and able to give a reason for the views he held. He
was a man of positive convictions and though firm in their maintenance was
mild and gentlemanly in doing so. The condition of his health for many
years involved throat and lung trouble with increasing tendency to con-
sumption ; and this condition not only required his frequent sojourn in win-
ters in milder climates and made necessary the watchful care of himself at
all times but also circumscribed his business and social activities from what
they would have been had he been blessed with robust health. But he pos-
sessed in good degree the cooperative, social, fraternal and companionable
spirit as those who in one way and another came into intimate relations with
him freely testify; and he formed deep and lasting friendships, as was evi-
denced by the many old friends present at his obsequies. He held those
moral and religious convictions that lead to uprightness of life. In a word
Mr. Hix was a man of sterling character, a good husband, a kindly neigh-
bor and a worthy citizen; and the home and the city out of which he has
passed have sustained a greatly regretted loss." A man of sterling purpose
and of high ]>rinciples. Major Ilix ranked for many years as one of the
most valued citizens of Nevada and his splendid qualities gaincil for him
the higliest regard of all who knew him. His record is in many respects
an example well worthy of emulation anil no history of Story county would
be complete without mention of him because of his close and honorable
association with many interests that pertained to the general welfare.
ARTHUR RAV JOILXSOX.
Arthur Ray Johnson, the junior partner of the firm of the Nelson &
Johnson Investment Company, was born in Garden City, Iowa, on the 3d
of January, 1883, and is a son of Svend .M. and Lola (Sink) Johnson. The
father was a native of Norway but emigrated to the United .'^tates in 1872,
going directly to Tama county, Iowa, where lie resided for six years. In
1878 he removed to Hardin county, Iowa, and engaged in farming up to
the time of his death in January, 1907, at the age of fifty-one years. He
was a most successful farmer and liad acquired one hundred and sixty
acres of land in Ilardin county at the lime of his demise. He married
Miss Lola Sink and to them were born two children : CIco, who lives at
home, and Artluir Ray. The family attended the United Evangelical
church, of which the parents were members, Mrs. Johnson still being iden-
lilicil with that denomination. Mr. Johnson always voted the republican
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 85
ticket and, taking an active interest in politics, he filled the office of town-
ship assessor for twelve years.
Arthur Ray Johnson received his early education in the common schools
of Hardin county and later he attended Highland Park College at Des
Moines, Iowa, for a while. In 1904 he came to RIcCallsburg, where he
was employed in the bank for two years, and at the end of that time he
formed a partnership with N. H. Nelson and they are engaged in the land,
loan and insurance business under the firm name of the Nelson & Johnson
Investment Company. Both members of the firm are popular in McCalls-
burg, where their ability and high principles have won for them recogni-
tion as men who are building up a clientage on a policy of fair dealing and
strict integrity.
Mr. Johnson was united in marriage on the ist of Januar}-, 1909, to
Miss Ethyl Babcock, a daughter of F. D. Babcock of McCallsburg. They
attend the Presbyterian church in which Mr. Johnson holds membership.
Ever since age conferred upon him the right of suffrage he has cast his
ballot for the candidates of the prohibition party, and although he has never
taken a particularly active interest in local politics he is always at the polls
on election day to fulfill his duty as a citizen.
THOMAS JEFFERSON MILLER.
Thomas Jefferson Miller resides at No. 211 South Kellogg street in
Ames, where he has made his home since 1896. He has lived retired dur-
ing the past three years but previously was engaged in agricultural and com-
mercial pursuits and also served in public office. He was born in McLean
county, Illinois, November 21, 1841, a son of John and Blanche (Taylor)
Miller, natives of Kentucky and Virginia, respectively. The father was
born July 29, 1801, and the mother on the 20th of March, 1809. In child-
hood they went with their respective parents to Champaign county, Ohio,
where they were reared and married, and in 1826 they removed to Mc-
Lean county, Illinois, where they resided for two decades. The year 1856
witnessed their arrival in Story county, Iowa, and, settling upon a farm in
Franklin township, they there spent their remaining days, the father passing
away January 15, 1886, while his wife survived until October 24, 1889. In
addition to farming he operated a sawmill for a number of years after his
arrival. He entered several tracts of land in the western part of the state
but did not reside thereon, although at one time he owned a thousand acres.'
In business affairs he displayed sound judgment, keen discrimination and
unfaltering energy and upon those qualities he builded his success, which
made him one of the substantial residents of the county. His political al-
legiance was given to the whig party until its dissolution, when he joined
the ranks of the new republican party, which he supported until his death.
86 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
During the greater part of his residence in Story county he filled the office
of justice of the peace and his decisions were strictly fair and impartial.
His entire life was in harmony with his professions as a member of the
Methodist Episcopal church, in the work of which he took an active part.
Unto him and his wife were born eight children: James H., now de-
ceased; John F., a resident of Clinton, Illinois; Ichabod Taylor, deceased,
who was a Methodist Episcopal preacher and who served for several years
in the Civil war, a part of the time as private and later as chaplain of the
Xinety-fourth Illinois Infantry; William O., who has resided in California
since 1859; Kohama J., who died in infancy; Charles P., who was killed
in the charge at Black River Bridge in the Civil war; Samuel II.. who died
in Texas ; antl Thomas J.
The last named remained upon the home farm in Illinois until twelve
years of age. wlicii, with his parents, he removed to Bloomington, that state,
there residing for two years. In 1856 the family came to Story county,
Iowa, settling in Bloomington, I-^-anklin township, and there Thomas J. Mil-
ler remained until after the inauguration of the Civil war, when he re-
sponded to the country's call for troops, enlisting on the 9th of .August.
1862, as a member of Company A, Twenty-third Iowa \'olunteer Infantry.
He took part in the battles of Port Gibson, Champion's Hill and Black
River Bridge. He was taken ill soon afterward and subsequently did camp
duty. He was in the convalescent hospital during the siege of N'icksburg
and was di.scharged at Vicksburg on the nth of .August, 1863.
After his return home Mr. Miller engaged in farming with his father
for a short time but later entered the nursery business at Bloomington, in
connection with Captain R. S. Osborne, carrying on business under the firm
style of Osborne & Miller for about nine years. On the expiration of that
period Mr. Miller began farming on his own account and devoted his ener-
gies untiringly to general agricultural pursuits until 1S91. when he was
elected county treasurer, entering upon the duties of the office on the ist of
January, 1892. He served for two terms, or four years, his reelection com-
ing to him as an indication of the confidence and tru^l reposed in him. On
his retirement from office he engaged in the grocery business at .\mes for
nine years, first as a member of the firm of .Miller & Korsen, and later under
the firm style of Miller & Son. .\t the time of the second opening of ter-
ritory in Oklahoma, in February, 1900, he went to that state and took up a
homestead near Frederick, si)cnding about nineteen months there. At
length he sold out, trading his store for Kansas lan<l, which he has since
.sold. During the past three years he has lived retired, enjoying the fruits
of his former toil in a well earned rest, his home being at .\'o. 2\\ South
Kellogg .street in .Ames, where he has resided since 1896, save for a brief
interval of absence.
Mr. Miller has been twice married On the 28th of Xovcmbcr, iSho. lie
wedded Lizzie McCIain, who was born August 28, 1848, and died Marcli
2, 1868, leaving a son. William Howard, who died at the age of two years.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 87
In 1873 Mr. :\Iiller was united in marriage to Miss Belle j\I. Bisbee, who
was born in Chenango, New York, June 9, 1855, and there resided until
1867, when she came to Story county, Iowa, with her parents, Bolivar and
iMartha r^lalina ( Herrick) Bisbee, both of whom were natives of New York,
the former born September 5, 1826, and the latter about 1828. The mother
died when her daughter Mrs. Miller was but seven years of age and the
father afterward married again. On coming with his family to Iowa he
settled in Bloomington, Franklin township, and his remaining days were
spent in this county, his death occurring in December, 1895. He had four
children by his first wife and three by his second wife. Unto Thomas J.
and Belle Miller there have been born five children: Delia Marian, the wife
of F. M. Dawson, of Story City ; George Atherton, living in Ames ; Lena
Belle and Harry Claude, who died in infancy ; and Lizzie Azalia, who died
at the age of five years.
Throughout his entire life Mr. Miller has given his political support to
the republican party and has served in some local ofifices, acting as township
trustee of Franklin tow^nship, also as a member of the school board. Fra-
ternally he is connected with Ellsworth Post, No. 30, G. A. R., and with
Ames Lodge, I. O. O. F. He likewise belongs to the Methodist Episcopal
church and in these relations are found the guiding principles of his life,
making him a man whom to know is to esteem and honor. He has ever
been loyal to the trust reposed in him, faithful in his obligations of citizen-
ship and straightforward in all business dealings, and because of these quali-
ties the years have brought him the warm regard of those with whom busi-
ness or social relations have brought him in contact.
THOMAS P. CHILDS.
One of the extensive landowners of Grant township is Thomas P.
Childs. He is a native of tlie Empire state, having been born in Philadel-
phia, Jefiferson county, New York, on the 7th of December, 1840. He is
of Quaker extraction and is the son of Aaron and Mary (Hicks) Childs.
The father was a native of Pennsylvania and the mother of New York.
They were the parents of nine children, all but two of whom have now-
passed away, those living being: Henry, a resident of Clinton, Iowa, and
Thomas P., our subject.
It was in the district and common schools of Jefiferson county, New
York, that Thomas P. Childs acquired his early education. He remained a
member of his father's household until he had attained the age of twenty-
three years, having occupied the greater part of that time in the acquire-
ment of an education and fitting himself for his life's work, which he early
decided would be along agricultural lines. In 1863 he turned his face west-
ward, feeling that better opportunities were afforded a young man of lim-
88 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
ited capital in a new country, and he located in Iowa. In 1868 he purchased
one hundred and sixty acres of land in Story county but did not take up his
residence there until 1870, at which time he removed to this county with
his wife and one child. He later sold this place and bought the three hun-
dred acres where he now resides. His is one of the valuable farms of the
count)'. It contains modern improvements, which are kept in repair, he
raises a good grade of stock and his carefully cultivated fields produce
abundant harvests.
Mr. Childs married Miss Catherine Grohe, and they have become the
parents of three children, who are as follows : Oliver, who was graduated
at the Iowa State University with the degree of C. E. and is now a bridge
engineer in St. Louis, Missouri; L. B., a farmer in Grant township; and
Winnie, the wife of John Fay of Cambridge.
Fver since he acquired the right of full citizenship Mr. Childs has been
casting his ballot for the candidates of the republican party. He has taken.
an active part in local politics and is highh' esteemed by his constituency as
is indicated by his position on the school board. He is one of the older resi-
dents of this county and during his period of citizenship has shown him-
self to be a man well worthy of the esteem which is generally accorded
him. He has met with success in his pursuits but it has never been
achieved at the expense of honor and at no time has his integrity been as-
sailed or in any way questioned.
PETER A. SOLEM.
Roland is indebted to Norway for many of its estimable citizens and
among these is Peter A. Solem. lie was born in the Xorseland in 1857 and
had sailed the seas and lived in various climes before he became a mem-
ber of Uncle Sam's family. He acquired his education in his native land
and then followed the sea, sailing for one and one-half years on a Nor-
wegian ship. .After that he emigrated to South .\frica and worked for a
time as a cabinet-maker. He then went to Australia, Init only remained in
that country for six months. He was next employed as a sailor on an
English vessel but finally decided to become a resident of the United States.
His first permanent location in this country was in Story county, Iowa,
of which he is still a citizen. When he arrived here he engaged in carpen-
try but after following that trade for two years he decided to go into the
furniture business and opened a .store in Roland in 1887. which he continues
to conduct, being the pioneer furniture dealer of the town.
Since his residence here Mr. Solem has been married to Miss .\nnie
Hclland, who was also a native of Norway. They have become the parents
of three children, two of whom are still living: Adelaide and Oswald, both
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 89
of whom are attending school. They lost one little daughter, Selma, at the
age of two years.
The family attend the Lutheran church in which the parents are com-
municants. Ever since he has acquired the full rights of citizenship through
naturalization Mr. Solem has cast his ballot for the candidates of the re-
publican party, as he feels that the basic principles of that political body are
best adapted to subserve the interests of the general public. He has always
been a very active wide-awake citizen, taking a warm interest in all muni-
cipal affairs and for three years served as a member of the Roland council
and is now acting as a member of the board of school directors.
He is a progressive man, possessing very broad views. His extensive
travel and residence in so many different countries, as well as the fact of
his having followed various occupations, has given him a comprehensive
understanding and grasp of many subjects which never come within the
scope of the average individual who only acquires his knowledge from
books or at second hand. He has always proven himself to be a capable
man, well worthy of the regard which is generally granted him by his fel-
low townsmen.
LOGAN OLINGER.
One of the noticeable factors of recent years in business circles is the
presence of young men in positions of large responsibility. Possessing
advantages of early training of which former generations had only a dim
conception, they are prepared to advance rapidly and the result is that
many of the important enterprises of the country are directed by young
men. Logan Olinger, in the real-estate business at Maxwell, belongs to
the class briefly outlined above. He is a native of Maxwell, born Feb-
ruary 23, 1880, a son of George W. Olinger, a record of whom appears in
the sketch of Charles E. Olinger, to be found elsewhere in this work.
Logan Olinger received his preliminary education in the public schools
of his native town and also attended the high school. At the age of nine-
teen years he became connected with the real-estate business of his brother,
Charles E. Olinger, and in March, 1900, was made a member of the firm
of Olinger Brothers and was placed in charge of the insurance depart-
ment, the firm doing the largest fire insurance business of any in this sec-
tion of the state. As time passed the personal affairs of the senior mem-
ber of the concern demanded more and more of his attention until, on
December i, 1909, he retired and the subject of this review is now sole
proprietor. The firm has been prominent in handling local real estate but
its main operations have been in Iowa and Dakota farm lands, while the
insurance business controlled by them under active and able management
has grown to remarkable proportions.
90 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
On the 2ci of May. 1906, Mr. Olinger was united in marriage to Miss
Bessie Shemian, a daughter of Silas and Mary E. (Gamble) Sherman.
The father is now deceased but Mrs. Sherman is still living and makes her
home in Maxwell. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Olinger. but
only one. Paul J]., is now living.
Mr. Olinger gives his support to the democratic party but does not
devote much attention to politics, as his time is largely taken up with his
business affairs, lie is a member of the Brotherhood of American Yeo-
men and is connected with tlic Commercial Club of Maxwell, being presi-
dent of this organization. He and his wife are valued members of the
Presbyterian church. Mr. Olinger is remarkably active, clear-sighted and
efficient in the line to which he has devoted his talents ever since he began
the battle with the world, and he has gained a very high standing among
the successful promoters of land enterprises as well as in the lield of in-
surance. Through persistent purpose he has won his way to general recog-
nition, presenting one of the most striking examples of the effect of well
applied energy that may be met with in the state of Iowa.
FR.WK T. OL.SAN.
I'rank J. Olsan. a well known agriculturist of Story county, was born
on the 17th of February, 1859. in Moravia, in which country his ancestors
have been engaged in the occupation of horticulture in the same i)lace for
a period of four hundred and eighty years. He came to the United States
in 1887, first locating in Iowa City. Iowa, but the following year removed
to Nebraska. In i8()i, however, he returned to the Hawkeye state and
settled in Story county, where he has since continued to reside. He is en-
gaged in the seed, nursery and llorist business, in which line he has shown
himself to have few equals. .\t the present time he has six hothouses con-
taining fifteen thousand feet of glass, the space which he is utilizing being
equal to thirty acres of land. That he is thoroughly conversant with every
detail of his work is indicated by the abundance and perfection of his
products. Since his residence here he has acquired a nnich more than lo-
cal reputation being known as one of the most capable and competent rep-
resentatives of the science of horticulture in the country. He was the first
editor of the horticultural department of the Hospodar of Omaha, Ne-
braska, the largest Bohemian i)ubIication in the worM interested in this sub-
ject. He is now associate editor of the same iJublication. the growing de-
mands of his business precluding the possibility of his devoting as much
time as formerly to his editorial work.
Mr. Olsan was united in marriage to Mis> Mary Danek. also a native
of Moravia, and unto them have been born nine children, eight of whom
!•■. .1. u|>\\
\"II-:\V OK or.SAXVILLE
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 95
are still living as follows: Lidia, Miles, Ladic, Charles, Lumer, George,
William and Erma.
Mr. Olsan is fraternally identified with the Independent Order of Odd
Fellows, the Homesteaders and Yeomen of America. Ever since he ac-
quired the right of suffrage through naturalization he has cast his ballot
for the republican party, feeling tliat the policy of that organization best
subserves the interests of the majority by its principle of protection. Dur-
ing his period of residence in Story county his life has met all the require-
ments of good citizenship, and he is well worthy of the regard awarded
him in the communitv.
ELMER F. BIDDLE.
Elmer F. Biddle, one of the well known stockmen of Story county, who
is now serving as clerk of Grant township, was born in McLean county,
Illinois, on the 30th of May, 1869, a son of Dorrel F. and Rebecca (Lam-
bert) Biddle. His parents were both natives of the Buckeye state. His
father was born in 1836 and after he had acquired an education decided to
become a farmer. He was very successful in his work, and particularly in
his specialty, which was the raising and feeding of stock, accumulating a
nice competency and considerable valuable property. He was always iden-
tified with the republican party arid was very. active in politics, holding
many of the ininor offices in his locality.
Mr. and Mrs. D. F. Biddle were the parents of si.x children: Melissa,
who married William Merna, of Bloomington, Illinois; Maywood, who is
also married and is living in South Dakota; Edna, the widow of D. C.
Fletcher; Elmer F., our subject; Pearl J., who "is married and is living in
Bloomington, Illinois ; and Wilmer O., also a resident of Bloomington. The
mother passed away November 3, 1901, and the father survived until the
2 1 St of December, 1906.
Elmer F. Biddle received his preliminary education in the common
schools of McLean county, Illinois, and later went to Danville for one
year for a more advanced course. His early years were quite similar to
those of the majority of youths reared in the country. When he had
reached the age when it was time for him to lay aside his text-books and
assume the more practical duties of life he assisted his father up to the
age of twenty-two years. At that time he bought one hundred and thirty-
six acres of land in partnership with his brother Maywood and followed
cooperative farming for a time. Later he sold his interest to his brother
and cultivated rented land for a time. He then bought eighty acres, upon
which he lived until he came to Story county in 1898. The first year after
his removal here he rented land but very soon after his arrival bought one
hundred ami sixty acres. He has since added one hundred and sixty acres
96 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
to his farm and now owns three hundred and twenty acres of good land.
Like his father he has always made a specialty of the breeding and raising
of stock. He has some good thoroughbred animals on his farm, taking
particular pride in his Duroc hogs and Polled Angus cattle, in the breed-
ing and raising of which he has been quite successful. He also raises and
breeds pure bred Percheron horses, in which he has been equally success-
ful, having very much improved the standard of pacing horses in this sec-
tion. He has the distinction of having bred a pacer — E. F. B. — who made
a 2:20 record after a fifteen days' tryout.
On the 6th of January, 1891, Mr. Biddle was united in wedlock to
Miss Sarah Maroney, a native of Woodford county, Illinois, and of this
union eight children have been born, seven of whom are living, tlie order
of their birth being as follows: Dorrel, now attending high school; David,
who died at the age of nine months; Ethel, Elmer Charles, Jr., Edna and
Maud, all of whom are in school ; and Wayne and Ralph, who are at home.
Ever since he attained his majority Mr. Biddle has cast his vote with
the republican party and has been very active in politics. At present he
is filling the office of township clerk. His fraternal relations are entirely
confined to membership in the Modern Woodmen of America, his local
affiliation being with the Nevada camp. During his residence in Story
county Mr. Biddle has proven himself to be a capable and competent busi-
ness man and is regarded as one of the successful and prosperous farmers
of the community. He is favorably regarded by those with whom he has
had business and social relations and is well liked in the district wlicre he
resides.
ALFRED J. FAWCETT.
Alfred J. Fawcett, a prominent representative of financial interests in
Story county, is the cashier of the People's State Bank at Maxwell, which
institution he organized. His birth occurred in New .-Mbany township,
this county, on the 23d of October. 1869. He was reared on the home
farm and supplemented his preliminary education, obtained in the com-
mon schools, by a course of study in the Collins high school. Subse-
ruicntlv he entered what is now known as the Leandcr Clark College at
Toledo, Iowa, i)ursuing the commercial course and being graduated with
the class of 1890.
Desiring to learn telegraphy, he entered the telegraph office at Collins
but alx)ut two and a halt months later was offered and accepted a position
in a lumberyard, lie took the position, however, with the intention of
returning to the telcgrai>h office, for the click of the key possessed a fasci-
nation for him. But it seemed that he was destined for some other field
of activity. He remained in the lumberj-ard for about two years and then
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 97
entered the service of the Exchange Bank of ColHns, a private institution,
acting as bookkeeper and assistant cashier for about ten years. On the
expiration of that period the owner died and Mr. Fawcett was made ad-
ministrator, continuing to conduct the business of the bank for the estate for
about six months. In July, 1902, he reorganized the institution, which be-
came known as the Exchange State Bank and of which he was made
cashier and manager, serving in the dual capacity for two and a half years,
when he sold his interest with the intention of going to California, in which
state his parents were residing. Instead, however, he returned to the
farm to look after some improvements and remained thereon for two years,
abandoning his California trij). He next entered the county treasurer's
office at Nevada as deputy and on leaving the office, in April, 1908, organ-
ized the People's State Bank of Alaxwell, being placed in charge of the in-
stitution. A man of excellent executive ability and keen discrimination,
he has since contributed in large measure to the success and growth of
the bank. In addition to his financial interests he owns a farm in Indian
Creek township, this county, and another in South Dakota.
In 1892 j\Ir. Fawcett was united in marriage to Miss Huldah Hanson,
a native of Jasper county, Iowa, by whom he has four children : Genevieve
M., Geraldine M., Helene M. and Alfred H. Mr. Fawcett gives his po-
litical allegiance to the republican party, while fraternally he is identified
with Herald Lodge, A. F. & A. M., and Sylvan Camp, No. 2417, M. W. A.
His business record is one which any man might be proud to possess.
Starting at the bottom round of the ladder, he has advanced steadily step
by step until he is now occupying a position of prominence and trust.
Through his entire business career he has been looked upon as a model
of integrity and honor, never making an engagement that he has not filled
nor incurring obligations that he has not met. He stands today an example
of what determination and force, combined with the highest degree of
business integrity, can accomplish for a man of natural ability and strength
of character.
DANIEL McCarthy.
Daniel McCarthy, to whose enterprising spirit Ames is largely indebted
for its educational and commercial development, was born in Leeds county,
Ontario, Canada, on the nth of January, 1833. He is the son of Florence
McCarthy, a native of County Cork, Ireland, who was educated in the city
of Cork. The father was a profound student and deep thinker as well as
an ardent advocate of the education of the masses and was one of the first
propagators of the free school system in Canada. He taught school for
thirty-two years, teaching twelve months in succession. After he became a
98 HISTUKV UF STUKV CUUXTV
resident of Canada lie received the a])i)(>intincnt of justice of jieace from
the crown. Mr. McCarthy was united in marriage to Miss Mary Eliza-
beth Moore and by this union seven childrn were born, three of whom still
survive, the son Daniel being the second in order of birtli.
Daniel McCarthy acquired his fundamental education in the district
schools of Canada and after laying aside his te.xt-books he apprenticed him-
self to the cari)enter's trade. When lie attained bis majority he left the
land of his nativity and located in Jefferson county, New \'ork, but after
a brief residence there he decided to follow the sea for a wliile, believing
the opportunities so afforded of studying the customs and habits of other
nations at first hand would prove a liberal education. He shipped out of
Sackets Harbor, New York, as a sailor, but two months of this life was
sufficient and he migrated to Chicago and then removed to the central part
of Illinois and obtainexl a position as lireman on the Illinois Central Rail-
road for a few months. In the winter of 1854 he came west to Iowa and
located in Marshall coimty. where he worked at the carpenter's trade. He
remained there until the ist of April, 1856, when he removed to Fair-
view — now Story City, it taking four days to make the journey. After
his arrival in Story county he installed a steam plant in a sawmill owned by
Mr. House. This was the first steam plant operated in this county, and
after completing the work he returned to Marshall county but shortly
afterward was employed by XeLson House to remove the sawmill to what
was at that time called New Philadelphia but is now Ontario. He con-
tinued in the service of Mr. House in the sawmill for a time and then
bought the mill, which he operated for about two years and then sold it.
He again engaged in carpenter work for seven years, being dependent upon
it for his livehhood, while spending all of his leisure time in the study of
law. He made what progress he could, being entirely without assistance
during the whole period of his study. However, he was ambitious and
determined to win and although it took twelve years to master the prin-
ciples of jurisprudence his perseverance won and he was admitted to the
bar in 1870, remaining in active practice for nearly forty years, only re-
cently retiring. He first engaged in practice with John L. Stevens, under
the firm name of McCarthy & Stevens, later G. A. Underwood was ad-
mitted as junior partner. .After the dissolution of that partnershiji he be-
came a member of the firm of .McCarthy & Conley and later practiced with
Mr. Lee, now Judge Lee. More recently he has been identified with Mr.
Luke, under the name of McCarthy & Luke, and while this last relation-
ship still continues Mr. McCarthy is only a consulting jiartner, taking no
active part in the business of the firm.
NN'Ikmi be first located in Story county Mr. .McCarthy bought one bun-
drctl and sixty acres of land in Washington township, upon which he
erected the first frame house built in the township, and since that he has
at divers times added to his holdings until he now owns four hundred
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 99
acres of valuable farm land. In 1875 he began importing horses and
crossed the ocean eighteen times for this purpose. He was at one time
manager and director of the Central Iowa Importing Company but they
discontinued the business in 1893. He also served as a director of the
Union National Bank for thirty years but recently resigned from this.
I\Ir. McCarthy has always been an ardent supporter of the cause of
education and it is largely due to his personal eflorts that the Iowa State
College, then known as the State Agricultural College, was located at
Ames, as with other public-spirited citizens he donated money for that
purpose. He drove the first stake, and leveled and staked oflf the ground
for the first two buildings of this college, which is now recognized as one
of the foremost institutions of learning of its kind in the United States.
His championship of the college was recognized and honored by his being
appointed to have entire supervision of the arrangements for the semi-
centennial anniversary, which was held on the 4th of July, 1909. It is also
very largely due to his efforts that the Northwestern Railroad passed
through Ames, as he contributed money toward defraying the expenses of
the preliminary survey and did his utmost to convince the more conserva-
tive citizens of the advantages which it would be to the communitv.
On the 25th of April, 1858, Mr. McCarthy was united in marriage to
Miss Mary A. Ross, a daughter of James and Mary Ross, natives of Vir-
ginia and Ohio respectively. Her father was a salt manufacturer in his
early days but gave this up later in life and became a farmer. In the
family were eight children, Mrs. McCarthy being the seventh in order of
birth, three of whom are still living. Unto Mr. and Mrs. McCarthy have
been born nine children, eight of whom are living, as follows: WiUiam
F., a machinist, residing in Ames ; Andrew, who died at the age of two and
one-half years; Marie, the wife of H. L. Carrol, a member of the Polk
county bar, living in Des Moines ; Emma, who married C. G. Lee, of Ames ;
Robert H., engaged in the real-estate business in Ames; Elizabeth, the wife
of George S. Foster, a civil engineer of Madison, Wisconsin; Harriet,
who married Dr. Thomas L. Rice, of Ames; Mary R., who is the wife of
Frank W. Linebaugh, superintendent of the electric light and water plant
of Ames; and Justin D., who is engaged in farming.
Mr. McCarthy has always been a stanch adherent of the republican
party, is a very public-spirited man and has at all times taken an active
interest in municipal politics and has served in various local offices. He
was a member of the board of supervisors for many years and recently re-
signed because of the arduous duties it involved and has held no public
office since that time. He v/as also a member of the first city council in
Ames.
Mr. McCarthy can most truly be termed a self-made man. The son of a
poor man. he started out in life determined to make a place for himself
and to this end he saw that every step was an advance. When a less de-
100 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
termined man would have become discouraged and have given up. he stuck
to his Blackstone and in time was the victor. He is one of the substantial
citizens of Ames and is well worthy of the regard and esteem which his
fellow townsmen accord him.
ADELBERT J. BROWN.
Adelbert J. Brow-n, one of the most prominent representatives of mer-
cantile interests in Story county, acts as business manager of the depart-
ment store of the Lingenfelter lirotliers at Maxwell. His birth occurred
in Iowa Center, this county, on the 13th of September, 1869, his parents
being Peter and Catherine (Shoop) Brown, who are natives of Ohio and
Pennsylvania respectively. They came to Iowa as children with their re-
spective parents, both the Brown and Shoop families settling in Story
county some time in the '40s and forming the vanguard of emigration
westward. Both families entered land from the government and built
homes. The parents of our subject were married in Story county and
have resided within its borders continuously since. Peter Brown was suc-
cessfully engaged in farming in Union township until 1892, when he put
aside the active work of the fields, having since lived retired in Maxwell.
He is a worthy exemplar of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to Herald
Lxxlge, No. 455. Both he and his wife belong to the Presbyterian church
and are well known and highly esteemed throughout the community as
people of genuine personal worth.
Adelbert J. Brown spent his youthful days under the parental roof amid
the environment of the average farm boy and was educated in the district
schools. When alx)Ut nineteen years of age he left the home farm to em-
bark upon his business career, first going to Cambridge with the intention
of learning the drug business. At the end of a year, however, because of
the fact that his father had met with an accident, he returned home and
for twelve months operated the farm. Coming to Maxwell on the expira-
tion of that period, he was engaged in draying for a short time and then
entered a general store. Willi the exception of one year devoted to the
restaurant business at Collins he has since been continuously identified
with mercantile interests. In 1905 the Lingenfelter Brothers purchased the
general stock of Miller & Miller in Maxwell, and Mr. Brown was placed
in charge of the store. At that time the business was conducted in a small
corner room and there was alxjut nine thousand dollars' worth of stock.
Two years later the trade had grown to such an extent that the need arose
for more commodious quarters and the stock was removed to the present
place of business, where there are two large storerooms and also basement
rooms of the same size, affording altogether ten thousand square feet of
floor space. In the short period of five years, under the able management
of Mr. Brown, the trade has grown to an extent almost unequaled in a town
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 101
the size of Maxwell. From a humble and obscure position he has worked
his way steadily upward to one of large responsibility and prominence, be-
ing now widely recognized as a leading business man and influential resi-
dent of his native county.
In 1892 Mr. Brown was united in marriage to Miss Cynthia John, of
Ma.xwell, her father being Daniel W. John, a retired agriculturist of
Maxwell. Unto our subject and his wife has been born one chi-ld, Ava
Gladys.
Mr. Brown is a republican in politics, while his religious faith is indi-
cated by his membership in the Presbyterian church, to which his wife also
belongs. Fraternally he is identified witli Herald Lodge, No. 455, A. F.
& A. M. ; Social Lodge, No. 463, I. O. O. F. ; the Knights of Pythias ; and
Sylvan Camp, No. 2417, M. W. A., acting as clerk of the last named. He
has always resided in Story county and his life has been such that the circle
of his friends is almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintances.
JOHN W. LUTZ.
John W. Lutz, who vras successfully identified with general agricultural
pursuits throughout his entire business career, passed away on his farm in
Sherman township on the 31st of October, 1906. His birth occurred in La
Salle county, Illinois, on the 31st of October, 1862, his parents being V. G.
and Elizabeth (Renz) Lutz, both of whom were natives of Germany.
Emigrating to the United States, they were married in the state of Michi-
gan more than fifty years ago. V. G. Lutz, who was a farmer by occupa-
tion, died in Illinois in December, 1896. His widow still survives, how-
ever, and now makes her home with a daughter in Nebraska.
John W. Lutz attended the common schools in the acquirement of an
education and after putting aside his text-books worked on a farm, thus
early becoming familiar with the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the
agriculturist. He lived on a farm near Omaha, Nebraska, before com-
ing to this county in the spring of 1899, at which time he took up his
abode in Sherman township. In addition to the cultivation of cereals he
devoted considerable attention to the breeding of Hereford or white-faced
cattle, which branch of his business added materially to his income. He
also acted as vice president of the creamery at Zearing and was widely
recognized as a substantial and esteemed citizen of the community. His
farm of two hundred and sixty-two acres on section 5, Sherman township,
is now in possession of his widow and is known as the Fairview Stock
Farm.
On the 23d of January, 1889, in La Salle county, Illinois, Mr. Lutz was
united in marriage to Miss Emma Cehm, who was born in that county on
the 15th of May, 1863, her parents being Nicholas and Margaret (Young)
Gehm, who were married in Germany. They crossed the Atlantic to the
102 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
United States in the early '50s, locating on a farm in La Salle county, Illi-
nois, where they spent the remainder of their lives. Mr. Gehm passed away
in March, 1901, while Mrs. Gehm was called to her final rest in February,
1902. Mrs. Lutz, who attended the grammar and high schools as a girl, is
now the mother of five children, the record of whom is as follows. Caro-
line A., whose birth occurred in Nebraska on the i8th of December, 1889,
and who is still at home with her mother, is a graduate of the Central Busi-
ness College at Marshalltown. George J., who was born in Nebraska on the
4th of March, 1891, lives with his mother in Sherman township and attends
the Zearing high school. Nettie E., whose birth occurred in Nebraska on
the 13th of December, 1892, is pursuing her studies in the common schools.
Louis E., who was born in Nebraska on the loth of May, 1897, likewise at-
tends the common schools. Lydia M.. whose birth occurred in Sherman
township. Story county, on the 9th of March, 1904, is also pursuing her edu-
cation in the common schools.
Mr. Lutz gave his political allegiance to the republican party, while his
religious faith was indicated by his membership in the Lutheran church.
His life, in all of its various relations, was of such character as to com-
mand the respect and esteem of those with whom he was associated. Mrs.
Lutz. who still resides on the farm in .'^herman township, is a lady of many
excellent traits of heart and niiml and has won a host of warm friends
here.
JACOB R. FETTERHOFF.
\\'hen death came to Jacob R. Fetterhoff there was closed a record of
a life of great usefulness, fraught with good deeds and of marked influence
as an element for good in the lives of those with whom he came in con-
tact. While the greater part of his attention was given to agricultural pur-
suits he was always actuated by a spirit of Christian faith and belief and
for alx)ut four years prior to his death engaged in evangelistic work. He
was born in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, March 20, 1840, his parents
being Jacob and Catherine (Forney) Fetterhoff, both of whom were na-
tives of the Keystone state. The father died when his son Jacob was but
eight years of age. The mother afterward married again and spent her
last days in Maryland.
Jacob R. Fcttcrlioff was the second in a family of three sons but his
brothers, Hiram and .Mbert H., are both deceased. He resided at the
place of his nativity with his widowed mother until after the outbreak of
the Civil war when, in September. 1862, he oft"ered his services to the gov-
ernment, becoming a i)rivatc of Company H, Si.xtccnth Pennsylvania Cav-
alry. He was promoted to the rank of sergeant and served for thirty-two
months, being honorably discharged at the close of the war. He was
wounded and while at the front suffered from typhoid malaria. Twice he
was obliged to go to the hospital but as soon as possible rejoined his regi-
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 105
ment. In February, 1863, he was granted a furlougli and for a short time
was at home. He took part in over thirty engagements with the Army of
the Potomac and made a most creditable mihtary record by his iidebty to
duty on all occasions. He did not hesitate to take his place on the lonely
picket line nor stand upon the firing line where the battle raged the thickest.
Following the close of the war Mr. Fetterhoff was married at Franklin
Grove, Illinois, in October, 1865, to Aliss jNIelvina Catherine Cook, who was
born in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, November 4, 1843. In the spring
of 1865 she went to Illinois with a sister and was married there. Her
parents were Samuel and ]\Iary Ann (Beaver) Cook, both of whom were
natives of Pennsylvania, where their entire lives were passed. They had
a family of five children: Airs. Isabelle Alonn, of Pennsylvania. Henry
A., who served in the Civil war ; JNIrs. Anna R. Southerland, who resides
three miles south of Nevada; Mrs. Fetterhoff; and Mrs. Jennie Eiker, of
Pennsylvania.
In 1866, the year following their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Fetterhoff
came to Nevada and he remained a resident of Story county until his death,
which occurred February 26, 1885. Soon after his arrival here he pur-
chased a farm four miles south of the town and his remaining days were
largely devoted to the work of the fields and the improvements of the
place. He was the owner of one hundred and eighty-three acres and had
become a well-to-do citizen at the time of his death. He placed many im-
provements upon his farm, added to it all modern accessories and equip-
ments and as the years passed by made his place a productive and valuable
property. Soon after coming to Story county he was converted and joined
the Methodist Episcopal church and his life from that time was guided by
the teachings of the church and his efforts were an element in the moral
progress of the community. He became an evangelist and engaged in
preaching for about four years prior to his death, being in the midst of a
meeting when called to his final home.
The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Fetterhoff was blessed with five chil-
dren: Anna May, at home; Harvey Grant, who removed to Spokane,
Washington, where he died at the age of thirty- four years ; Cleo Pearl, at
home ; Benola Alvin, of Salem, South Dakota, who is married and has
three children, Sylva Pearl, Alvin and Ira ; and Etta, the wife of Peter
Mattison, who resides on the Fetterhoff' farm. Mr. and Mrs. Mattison
have seven children living: Lola, Ona, Harry, Merle, Clyde, Ivan and
Glen. Their eldest son, Orval Guy Mattison, was born January 25, 1894,
and died August 7, 1907. All of the children of the Fetterhoff family
were born upon the farm in Story county. Eighteen years after the death
of her husband Mrs. Fetterhoff removed to Nevada, where she now makes
her home but still retains the ownership of the farm.
In his political views Mr. Fetterhoff' was a republican and never lightly
regarded the duties of citizenship yet did not seek nor desire any public
office. He preferred to labor for the upbuilding and welfare of the com-
106 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
munity in other ways and his life became a jxatent force in the moral prog-
ress of the community. He left to his family not only a comfortable com-
petence, but also the priceless heritage of an untarnished name and a
memory that remains as a blessed benediction to all who knew him.
JAMES H. CLE\'ERLEY.
That the life history of James H. Cleverley is a record of success is
due to the persistent effort and intelligently directed industry which he has
displayed through the years of his connection with agricultural interests
of Story county. Born in .Allamakee county. Iowa, on the 13th of July,
1 87 1, he is a representative of one of the well known and highly honored
families of central Iowa, his parents being Jonathan and Elizabeth J.
(Owen) Cleverley, the former a native of London and the latter of Cov-
entry, England. Jonathan Cleverley, whose birth occurreil in the wiirld's
metropolis on the 12th of .April, 1836, is a son of William and .\nn (Lov-
ett) Cleverley. The mother passed away in England and later the father
brought his family of four children, a son and three daughters, to the
United .'states. He arrived here in 1847 and took up his abode in Herki-
mer county. New York, where he made his home until i860, in which year
he came to Iowa and remained with his sun until his death in 187S at the
age of seventy-five years.
Jonathan Cleverley, the only son of -Mr. and .Mrs. William Cleverley,
was eleven years of age when brought to the United States and the j'ear
follnwinq: his arrival he began working in a lumberyard. Later he was
engaged in a mill for a while and then began lumbering in the woods, al-
together being connected with the lumber business for seven years. In
1854 he came west to Iowa, locating in .Allamakee county, and was there
variously occupied for some time, giving his attention principally, how-
ever, to farming. In 1859 he purchased a farm of eighty acres, upon
which he made his home until 1876. in which year he removed to Jasper
county, there investing in one hundred and si.xty acres, which tract is still
in his possession. This remained his home until 1906, when he withdrew
from active work and became a resident of Collins, where he is now living
in well earned retirement. That he was ambitious, industrious and per-
severing and possessed good business ability is indicated by the fact that
when he first came to this country he began working for one dollar ])er
week, while his father received seventy-live cents per day, the combined
sum going for the support of the family. Today he is numbered among
the mo.st substantial and well-to-do men of Collins, having acquired a
competency which makes it possible for him to enjoy all of the comforts
and many of the lu.xuries of life. He is one of the prominent and influen-
tial men of the community in which he lives and gives stalwart support to
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 107
the republican party although he has never sought nor desired public office.
He has, however, been a leader in Masonic circles in Maxwell, being con-
sidered the best posted Mason in this section of the state. He is also one
of the oldest, having joined the order in Winneshiek county forty-three
years ago. He assisted in organizing and was a nieniber of Herald Lodge,
No. 455, A. F. & A. M., at Maxwell. He is likewise a charter member of
Fervent Lodge, No. 513, A. F. & A. M., at Collins, and was its first mas-
ter, serving in that office for five years. He and his wife both hold mem-
bership in the Order of the Eastern Star. Jonathan Cleverley was married
on the 27th of July, 1862, to Miss Jane Elizabeth Owen, who was born
in Coventry, England, and came with an uncle to the United States when
nineteen years of age. settlement being made in Allamakee county, Iowa.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Cleverley were born eight children but only four now
survive, namely : Mary, the wife of William Kimberly, a farmer of Jasper
county, Iowa; Maria, who wedded William Clapper, of Oklahoma; James
H. ; and Frank E., operating the old home farm.
James H. Cleverley whose name introduces this review, was reared in
his parents' home, no event of special importance coming to vary the rou-
tine of life for him during the period of his boyhood and youth. In the
public schools he acquired a good education, passing throughout consecu-
tive grades to his graduation from the Collins high school in due course of
time. He remained under the parental roof until attaining his majority,
when he laid the foundation for a happy home of his own by his mar-
riage, on the 4th of November, 1894, to Miss Orlena A. Crabb, of Collins.
She is a daughter of \"incent and Hester (Wells) Crabb, who came to
Story county from Indiana in 1877. The father was a veteran of the
Civil war and passed away in 1879 as a result of disease contracted during
his term of service. The mother still survives and makes her home in
Collins.
After his marriage James H. Cleverley started out independently in
the business world, engaging in farming in Jasper county as a renter for
three years. At the end of that period he purchased a farm of one hun-
dred and twenty acres on section 24, Indian Creek township, known as the
old Strickler farm. That remained the scene of his business activity for
four years, when he purchased the Andrew J. Marshall place, upon which
he now makes his home. When it came into his possession it consisted of
one hundred and sixty acres constituting the northwest quarter of section
23, Indian Creek township. He did not dispose of his property on section,
24, however, until three years later. In 1906 he became the owner of
eighty acres adjoining his place, so that his farm now consists of two hun-
dred and forty acres. Under his direction it has been greatly developed
and improved, for he has made a careful study of agriculture, employs the
most modern and progressive methods and, moreover, has a capacity for
wise management and sound business ability. He receives a good annual
108 HISTORY OI' STORY COUNTY
revenue from his farm and is recognized as one of the substantial agri-
culturists of Indian Creek township.
With the passing of the years the home of Mr. and Mrs. Cleverley has
been blessed with seven children: Ruth L., Flossie M., Willard J., Opal
B., Wayne H., .Alice and Mildred, the family circle remaining untouched
by the hand of death.
Since age conferred ujjon him the right of franchise Mr. Cleverley has
been a loyal supporter of republican principles and has been an influential
and effective worker in the ranks of that party. He served for four years
as assessor of Indian Creek township and is now serving as a member of
the township board of trustees. Progressive and public-spirited in his
citizenship, he strongly advocates those measures and matters wiiich have
for their object the improvement and upbuilding of the community, and
his devotion to the general good has ever remained an unquestioned fact.
Whether in the discharge of public duties or in the management of private
business atiairs he has ever been actuated by those qualities which speak
for good citizenship and he is held in high regard and esteem by all who
have come in contact with him.
W 1LLI.\M J. \ K.\"liM.\N.
W illiam J. Veneman, who is now living retired on a small tract of land
of twenty-three acres adjoining the town of ^laxwell, was long and success-
fully identified with general agricultural pursuits in Story county and for
more than thirty years has been a prominent factor in local politics. His
birth occurred in Kosciusko county, Indiana, on the 5th of June, 1844, his
parents being Lemuel and Matilda (Cory) Veneman, both of whom were
natives of Ohio. The father went to Kosciusko county, Indiana, in early
manhood, while the mother was taken there by her parents. They were
married in that county and six years later, in 1849, journeyed westward to
Polk county, Iowa, Lemuel \'eneman entering three hundred acres of gov-
ernment land in Elkhart townshi]). He erected a log house on his farm and
made his home thereon until he passed away in 1868. His wife was called
to her final rest in 1897. Mr. \'eneman gave his political allegiance to the
republican j)arty and served in various township offices, including those of
township trustee, assessor and school director. Both he and his wife were
devoted and faithful members of the Methodist Episcopal church.
William J. X'cncman was reared under the parental roof, receiving such
educational advantages as the log schoolhouses of those early days afforded.
On the nth of August, 1862, he enlisted for service in the Civil war as a
member of Company P., Thirty-ninth Iowa \'oIunteer Infantry, remaining
with that command until the cessation of hostilities. He was honorably dis-
charged on the 5th nf Juno. 1865, — his twenty-first birthday — and mustered
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 109
out at Clinton, Iowa, about the ist of July. He had been captured at Al-
toona Pass on the 5th of October, 1864, and was first incarcerated in the
Macon (Ga.) prison, while later he was transferred to Milan prison, being
confined for fifty-two days. At the end of that time he was paroled and
four months later was exchanged. After returning home he attended
school for a year and a half longer, recognizing the value of a good educa-
tion in the battle of life.
On the 30th of August, 1867, he wedded Miss Margaret Kirby, of Des
Moines, a daughter of Jacob and Harriet (Ferguson) Kirby. The follow-
ing winter he became identified with educational interests as teacher of the
Hall school, a log schoolhouse in Indian Creek township. Story county.
During that season his wife taught the Donohue school in the same town-
ship. In the spring Mr. Veneman took up general agricultural pursuits,
renting his father's farm in Polk county and operating it for four or five
years. During that time he had come into possession of a little more than
one hundred acres thereof and continued to reside on that tract until 1873,
when he disposed of the property and purchased one hundred acres on sec-
tion 14, Indian Creek township. There he successfully carried on his farm-
ing interests until 1902, when he put aside the active work of the fields,
having lived in honorable retirement for the past nine years. He owns a
tract of twenty-three acres adjoining the town of Maxwell and makes his
home in a pleasant and commodious residence which he built thereon. His
property holdings include one hundred and sixty acres on section 24 and
twenty acres on section 14, Indian Creek township, all of which is culti-
vated by his son Lemuel. Early realizing that earnest, unremitting labor is
the basis of all success, he worked on diligently year by year to provide for
his family and to obtain a comfortable competence for old age.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Veneman have been born six children. Roy, the
eldest, passed away in 1906 in the thirty-ninth year of his age. He was edu-
cated at Ames and followed the profession of teaching at Colo, Story City
and Madrid, Iowa. Becoming noted as an educator, he was elected superin-
tendent of schools of Boone county and served in that position for four
years. Lemuel J., the second son, is an agriculturist by occupation and
operates the home farm in Indian Creek township. Nelson J., is engaged
in the produce business at Scranton, Iowa. Harriet, who gave her hand in
marriage to John Black, makes her home in Scranton, Iowa. Alberta, the
wife of Elmer Cole, lives in Winterset. Iowa. Ward \V., a stationary en-
gineer, makes his home in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Mr. \'eneman is a republican in politics and has long been an influential
worker in the local ranks of his party. For more than thirty years he has
remained continuously in public ofiice, serving as township trustee or in
one of the other township positions. He represented his district in the
twenty-seventh and twenty-eighth general assemblies of the state legislature
and has repeatedly served as delegate to the state conventions, being one of
Story county's most widely known and highly esteemed citizens. Frater-
no HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
nally he is identified with Herald Lodge, A. F. & A. M.; Social Lodge, L O.
O. F. ; and James H. Ewing Post, No. 305, G. A. R. For four or more
years he served as commander of the post. He acts as steward and Sun-
day school superintendent of the Methodist Episcopal church, which num-
bers himself and his wife among its valued members. Mr. Veneman has
resided in this part of the state for more than six decades and stands fore-
most in his community as one of its leading and influential citizens.
S. B. STEVENS.
The owner of a productive farm of one hundred and twenty acres on
sections 33 and 34, New Albany township, S. B. Stevens may justly be re-
garded as one of the prosperous citizens of Story county. He was born in
Van Buren county, low^a, December 7, 1847, a son of Henry Adam and
Matilda Janes (Smith) Stevens, the latter of whom was born July 3. 1817.
The father was a native of Perth. Canada, and was born July 31, 1813. He
was of American parentage, the family living temporarily in Canada at the
time of his birth. The ancestrj- on the paternal side has been traced to
John Adams, second president of the United States, the father being a
nephew^ of Mr. Adams. On the maternal side the genealogical line has been
traced to the Bradfords of Puritan times. Ilcnry Smith, one of the ances-
tors, was a prominent man in Canada and .served as governor of the prov-
ince of Ontario. Our subject's Grandfather Stevens was appointed to a
government position by President .-Xdams. with whom he stood in high
favor, having served as one of the original Green Mountain Boys under
Ethan Allen at Ticonderoga. He spent several years in Canada while in
the employ of the government. An uncle of our subject was a classmate
of U. S. Grant at West Point and lost his life while crossing the Rio Grande
river on his way to Mexico w iili the invading army in 1847.
Henry Adams Stevens, the father, received unusual advantages of edu-
cation in his times and was a graduate of Harvard University, entering
the ministry froin that celebrated institution. He officiated at Springfield,
Illinois, and at Montrose, Iowa, then locating in \'an Buren county, where
he spent many years. He attained a wide reputation as a speaker and elo-
quent advocate of the Christian life, and in 1893, at the World's Fair in
Chicago, delivered an address upon "When Timothy was made an .Xpostle."
He was married to Matilda Janes Smith in 1836 and encountered consid-
erable difficulty in conducting his bride from Canada to the United States
on account of trouble over the Oregon boundarj' line, which at that time
created ill feeling between the two countries. He passed away near Cam-
eron, Missouri, in i8g8, his beloved companion having been called from
earthly scenes in 1882.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY HI
S. B. Stevens was one of a family of three children. He received a
common-school education and although only fifteen years of age at the time
of the breaking out of the great rebellion, his services were accepted and
for four years and two months he valiantly defended the cause of the
Union, participating in many of the most important engagements and move-
ments of the war. He marched under General Sherman to the sea and was
present at the surrender of Fort McAllister. After being mustered out
when then only nineteen years of age, he worked during the winter months
in a packing house at Farmington, Iowa, and in summer was foreman of a
bridge gang on the Des Moines Valley Railroad. Subsequently he entered
the employ of James Tuttle as foreman of his farm in Polk county, seven
miles from Des Moines. In 1870 he began farming on his own account in
\'alley township, Polk county, but two years later sold out and moved to
Elkhart township, taking up his residence four years later in Union town-
ship, Storj' county. In 1891 he removed to Sherman township and ten
years later, having acquired a competence, took up his residence at New
Albany. He has been very active and energetic as a farmer and business
man and has gained an enviable reputation as a breeder of fine cattle and
Chester White hogs. He is now serving as president of the Johnson Grove,
Colo & New Albany Telephone Company.
On the 26th of March, 1869, Mr. Stevens was united in marriage to
Miss Dorcas Bullington, of Polk county, who was born at Blakesburg,
Wapello county, January 29, 1S50. They became the parents of six
children, namely: Arthur, who was born December 20, 1870, and is now
engaged in the general merchandise business at McCallsburg; A. T- and
Alice May, twins, born January 13, 1872, the former of whom is farming
in Richland township and the latter the wife of Phil Buffiington ; C. W.,
now a prosperous farmer of Warren township, who was born March 28,
1875, and married Miss Alinnie Webb; Hattie, born March 20, 1877, who
married W. W. Carver and is now living in Lincoln township ; and Dorcas,
born August 20, 1879, who married Charles Webb and is living in Sherman
township. The mother of these children departed this life September 18,
1879, and Mr. Stevens was married, April 24, 1882, to Miss Emily A.
Hanks, a daughter of Jay and Jane Songers Hanks. Eleven children
blessed this union, namely: Bradford, born September 11, 1883, who was
graduated from the Cedar Falls Normal School and married Edith Sherer ;
S. W., born July 3, 1884, who married Adelia Klein; John Quincy, born
July 15, 1885, who is a professional auctioneer; Edith Belle who was born
July 17, 1889, and is one of the popular school teachers of the county; Janet
Blanche, born February 14, 1891 ; William J., born December 17, 1895;
Ethel born August 7 1898; Iver born April 26, 1900; Winifred, born May
7, 1903; Velma, born July 23, 1907; and Thelma, born September 6, 1909.
Of these children the nine last named are at home.
Mr. Stevens has ever since reaching manhood given his earnest support
to the democratic party. He has been active in its local councils and served
112 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
as justice of the peace for a number of years in Polk county, also tilling
the office of township assessor and for twenty-seven years performed his
duty to the cause of education as a member of the school board. He is a
stanch believer in the Bible, and he and his wife are valued members of the
United Brethren church. lie has raised a remarkable family, all of whom
are performing their share in the duties of life. He has been industrious,
economical and persevering and, therefore, successful in his work, at the
same time gaining the respect of his neighbors and of the entire community.
By honorable methods in business and by an ujiright character he has main-
tained an untarnished name, which to his children is a legacy much more
precious than gold or silver.
OLE NIEHLSEN.
Ole Niehlsen, one of the esteemed and successful farmers of Story
county, was born in Denmark on the 17th of May, 1841, a son of John
and Marie Niehlsen. The parents were both natives of Denmark in which
country they spent their entire lives. The mother passed away in i860 and
the father eight years later.
The early years of Mr. Niehlsen's life were spent in his native land,
but the many stories he heard of the advantages offered men of limited
means in America at last proved irresistible and in 1876 he crossed the At-
lantic, landing at Boston. He straightway made his way across the coun-
try to Marshall county, Iowa, where his brother had located three years
previously. F"or six years be worked on the railroad at Marshalltown,
carefully laying aside a portion of his wages each month, until in 1882 he
had acquired sufficient capital to enable him to buy eighty acres of land in
Warren township. Story county. For twenty-five years he made this his
home and then in 1907 he bought another eighty acres in Richland town-
shij), where he continues to reside. Everything about his farm has an air
of prosperity; the stock is well housed, the fences kept in repair and the
residence has an air of comfort, while the carefully cultivatcfl fields yield
])rofitablc returns.
Mr. Niehlsen married Pauline, the daughter of Nelson and Christine
Nelson. She is also a Dane and has becoiue the mother of seven children :
Cliristine; Inga Marie; Anna Dorothy, who became the wife of Luke
O'Donnel, of Sherman townshjp; Carrie; Annie Christina; Jens; and Peter
Nelson.
The family atltiiil the Lutheran church in which the parents liold mem-
ber.ship. Before coming to the United States Mr. Niehlsen had served
seventeen months in the Danish army and hac! seen some active service,
going to the front with his regiment in the war with Germany in 1864. He
is a loyal subject of the United States and has never regretted his deci-
Li
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 115
sion to become a citizen, feeling that the success he has met with here would
have been practically impossible in the more thickly settled and conserva-
tive country in which he spent the first thirty-five years of his life. His
present position can be entirely attributed to his own efforts and the capable
assistance at all times rendered him by Mrs. Niehlsen. He is highly re-
garded in the community where he resides, his integrity and industry — •
which are the fundamental principles of good citizenship, winning him the
respect of all who have known him in either a business or social wav.
ARCHIBALD RAY.
Archibald Ray, whose efforts during an active and useful life were de-
voted to agricultural pursuits, in which he won substantial prosperity and
a place among the most successful and well known farmers of his locality,
was one of Indiana's native sons, his birth occurring in Marion county on
the 25th of November, 1844. His father, Judiah Ray, one of the early and
prominent settlers of Story county, was born in Ohio on the 1st of October,
1823, and was a son of Samuel and Maria Ray. During the period of his
early boyhood he was accorded such advantages as could be obtained in
pioneer days but at the age of twelve years was compelled to take upon him-
self the duties of manhood, the death of his father at that time placing him
practically in charge of the family, and during her remaining days he con-
tinued the main support of his widowed mother. He entered the business
world in the employ of an uncle, driving an ox team in the construction of
the Ohio canal. Although during that time he worked earnestly and dili-
gently, he was, however, unable to save any money, his earnings going to the
support of the family. Thus it was that upon attaining his majority he
found himself without capital and when he was united in marriage
to Miss Ann Belcher, his financial possessions amounted to one dollar. This
was paid to the justice who performed the marriage ceremony and by him
was given to the bride as a token of good luck, and with a capital of one
dollar they began their domestic life. Good luck, however, did follow and
when, in 1851, they brought their family to Iowa they had been able to
save seven hundred dollars. The winter of that year was spent at Pella
and in the spring of 1852 they arrived in Story county, Mr. Ray entering
land at Iowa Center. Success continued to attend his efforts and as he pros-
pered from time to time he was able to purchase more land until, in the
spring of 1884, he retired from active life, his holdings making him one of
the extensive landowners of his section of the county. Upon leaving the
farm he removed to Nevada and there his remaining years were spent. He
became a director of the First National Bank of Nevada and was thus con-
nected with financial interests as long as his health permitted. He was iden-
tified with various other enterprises and his many interests eventually made
Ill) HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
liini one of the well-to-do and influential men of Story county. Soon after
his arrival in Iowa he was followed by his mother and sister, who assisted
him when opportunity permitted. A man of great industrj' and persever-
ance, he also possessed those characteristics which make it possible for a
man, taking up his abode in a new and undeveloped country, to bravely meet
the conditions and successfully overcome the hardships and privations
which he is forced to endure on the frontier. He did his full share in the
work of development and improvement and is numbered among the build-
ers of Story county. He i)ossessed sound business jmiginent and, more-
over, was a man of well known probity, his honorable, upright life com-
manding the esteem and respect of all who knew him. He was reared in
the Evangelical faith but after taking up his residence in Nevada united
with the Alethodist Episcopal church, in the faith of which he passed away
on the 2d of July, 1907, having for several years survived his wife, her
death occurring on the 31st of March, 1895.
Archibald Ray was about eight years of age when he came with his
parents to Iowa and thus practically his entire life was spent within the
boundaries of Story county. As a lad he acquired his education in the
primitive log schoolhouse of pioneer days and with the other members of
the family suffered much of the discomforts of pioneer life. He remained
at home, assisting his father in the cultivation of the farm, until he at-
tained man's estate, when he entered the business world on his own ac-
count. Wisely choosing as a life work the occupation to which he had been
reared, he rented land from his father and was thus engaged at the time of
his marriage in 1869. He continued as a renter for about four or five years
thereafter and then purchased a tract of forty acres from John Funk, which
became the nucleus of his later e.xtensive possessions. To this he added
from time to time as he prospered in his undertakings, and something of the
success which attended his efforts is seen in the fact that at the time of his
death he was the owner of four hundred and twenty acres of highly cul-
tivated land. He possessed much of the spirit of industry and energy which
characterized his father, his ambition prom])ting him to make a thorough
study of agriculture. He cultivated the cereals best adapted to soil and
climate, practiced rotation of crops and in addition to tilling the soil raised
good stock. Keen business discernment and a capacity for wise manage-
ment were also his, and as the years passed the results of his labors were
seen in the acquirement of a competence which ranked him among the
wealthiest and most sul)stantial agriculturists of Indian Creek townsiiip.
In the spring of 1901 he withdrew from active pursuits and removed to
Maxwell, where he lived in quiet retirement until his demise.
It was on the 3d of February, 1869. that Mr. Ray was united in mar-
riage to Miss Hilda Johnson, a daughter of Henry and Helen (House)
Johnson, natives of England and New York respectively. Her father came
to the United States in infancy, his parents settling near Ogdensbiirg in
St. Lawrence county. New York. There Henry Johnson w^as reared and
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 117
married, and in 1867 he sought a home in the middle west, residing in Cook
county, IlHnois, for one year, after which he took up his permanent abode in
Polk county, Iowa, where his wife died soon after their arrival. Later Mr.
Johnson married Mrs. Catherine Strong and was actively engaged in agri-
cultural pursuits for a number of years, making his home on a farm south
of Collins. Upon his retirement late in life he removed to Collins and there
his death occurred on the loth of July, 1905. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Ray were
born five children, of whom four survive: Andrew, at home; Ida, the wife
of Samuel Coughenour, of Indiana Creek township ; Charles, operating the
old homestead farm ; and Artie, also at home.
In early life Archibald Ray became identified with the Evangelical church,
of which he remained a member until the organization of the Christian
church in Maxwell in 1890, when he associated himself with that congrega-
tion and remained a devoted and conscientious member thereof until his
demise. In politics he was a stanch democrat but the honors and emoluments
of office held no attraction for him, preferring to concentrate his time and
attention on his personal interests. Preeminently a home man, he never
affiliated with any fraternal orders, finding congenial companionship in his
own home circle, where he was loved and revered as a devoted husband
and father. Inheriting the elements of sterling integrity and moral sound-
ness, like his father he commanded the highest regard and respect of his
fellowmen, his life record ever remaining in harmony with an untarnished
and honored name. His wife, who still makes her home in Maxwell, is also
a member of the Christian church, in the work of which she takes an active
and helpful part. She is a lady of many excellent traits of heart and mind
and is the center of a large circle of warm friends.
FRANK SUTTER.
Frank Sutter is now interested in the hardware and implement business
in Kelley, where he is conducting an enterprise of substantial proportions
that indicates his careful management, sound judgment and enterprising
spirit. He was born in Lee county, Illinois, November i, 1867, and is a son
of John and Alargaret (Thomas) Sutter, both of whom were natives of
Franklin county, Pennsylvania. The mother came with her parents to the
middle west in 1850, driving across the country to Lee count}-. Illinois. She
was a daughter of James and Mary Thomas, who in the year 1875 continued
their westward journey to Iowa, settling in Story county. In the year 1896
James Thomas went to California, where his death occurred at the age of
eighty-five years. He had for about fourteen years survived his wife, who
passed away in Story county in 1882. They were well known residents
here during the last quarter of the nineteenth century.
118 HISTORT OF STORY COfXTV
John Sutter went as a youug man to Franklin. Illinois, about 1S55.
He lost his mother early in life and had no home until he made one for him-
self. His father, however, reached the venerable age of ninety-three years,
passing away in Lee county, Illinois. In that county John Sutter married
Margaret Thomas. In the year 1875 they became residents of Story county.
Iowa, settling in Washington township, two and a half miles south of the
Iowa State College, where they resided until 1895. when they sold that farm
and removed to Ma.xwell. IJoth died, however, in Lincoln Nebraska, the
mother on the 6th of December, 1908, when seventy-two years of age. and
the father on the 4th of April. icpQ, at the age of eighty years. He had fol-
lowed the occupation of farming throughout his entire life and thus pro-
vided fur the supijort of his fifteen children, ten of whom reached mature
years, while nine are now living.
Frank Sutter was only eight years of age when the family left Illinois
and came to Story county. He remained upon the home farm with his
parents until 18S9 and then went to Lincoln. Nebraska, where he remained
for two years. He devoted two years to general farming and afterward
worked in railroad shops for a year. He then returned to Iowa, settling in
Kelley in 1892. He was employed in the tile factory for about a year and
in 1893 took charge of the home farm, which he cultivated and improved
then again took up his abode in Kelley and for five years worked at the car-
penter's trade during the summer months, while in the winter seasons he
aided his father-in-law. II. A. Cook, in the management of the elevator and
grain trade. In the .spring of 1901. he went to Guthrie, Oklahoma, where
he remained from the i6th of April until the 24th of December engaged in
carpentering, threshing and elevator work. In the spring of 1902, however,
he returned to Iowa, settling in Pocahontas county, where he followed car-
pentering uiilil August, after which he engaged in liuying grain for two
years. On the ist of .\pril. 1904. he went to Idaho I'"alls. Idaho, where he
followed farming and carjicntering during the summer and in .August of
that year returned to Kelley taking charge of the elevator for the H. A.
Lockwood Grain Company. He remained in that connection for si.x years
and eight months but on the i6th of March. 191 1. he became interested in
the hardware and implement business. He is also interested to some extent
in real estate, owning dwellings, business property and vacant lots in the
town.
On the 2ist of I'-ebruary, 1889. Mr. Sutter was united in marriage t..
Miss Belle Cook, who was bom in Story county, August 20, 1870. and is a
daughter of H. ,\. and Jennie Cook, natives of Quincy, Pennsylvania, where
they were married. In 1864 the father enlisted for service in the Civil war
and after the close of hostilities came to Iowa in 1866 taking up his ahofle
in Story county. The last two years of his life, however, were spent in
Polo, Illinois, where he died January 23. 1901). in his seventieth vear. He
tlevoted many years to farming, following that pursuit until 1882, when he
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 119
removed to Kelley and for seventeen years worked for the Lockwood
Grain Company in connection with the operation of the elevator at this point.
His wife died in Kelley in 189S, at the age of fifty-six years. Unto Mr.
and Mrs. Sutter have been born three children: Effie, now the wife of R. C.
Lowman, of Kelley; Irene and Edith, at home.
While Mr. Sutter has at times been absent from the county, he has prac-
tically regarded Story county as his place of residence since 1875. What-
ever success he has achieved is due entirely to his own efforts. He has
worked his way steadily upward and his industry and energy have been the
salient features in winning him a substantial place in business circles.
WILLIAM M. YOUNG.
The strength of the American nation lies in its self-made men — those
who through unremitting toil, indomitable courage and temperate habits have
attained the heights to which they aspired and in so doing have ever retained
the respect and esteem of their fellowmen. Of such as these is William M.
Young. He was born in Polk county, Iowa, on the 19th of January, 1862,
being the son of Benjamin and Rachael (Woods) Young, both natives of
Darke county, Ohio, where they were reared and married. Benjamin Young
came to Iowa in 1858, buying one-half section of land in Polk county, near
Ankeny, on which he lived until 1864 or 1865, when he returned to Ohio,
spending two years in Darke county. At the end of that time he came to
Iowa again, settling in Jasper county on Wolf creek, five miles south of
Collins. He bought one hundred and sixty acres of land, upon which he
lived for a number of years, and on selling this he purchased a small farm
near Mingo, continuing to make his home there until the death of his wife,
when he removed to Mitchellville to reside with his daughter, with whom
he is still living at the venerable age of eighty-three years.
The early years of William Young's life were unusually void of those
joys and pleasures we consider to be the rightful heritage of every child.
He was reared to manhood on the Jasper county farm and upon him de-
volved much of the farm work, his schooling being confined to the brief
sessions of the district school, which he attended at such times as his ser-
vices were not required at home. At the age of fourteen years he laid
aside his text-books and became self-supporting, hiring out as a farm
hand, for which service he received ten dollars per month. His first work-
was the binding of grain behind an old Buckeye reaper on a farm where
tlie town of Collins now stands. His earnings, up to the age of nineteen
years, were given to his father, after that, however, he began working for
himself, continuing as a farm hand for four more years and then renting
the place where he harl been employed. Always thrifty, by careful man-
agement and indefatigable energy he was able in 1881 to buy his first
120 HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY
piece of real estate, which consisted of forty acres of farm land, to which
he added another forty acres in 1884 and acquiring a similar amount in
1886 brought the aggregate up to one hundred and twenty acres. During
this time he continued to cultivate rented land but in 1888 he moved to his
own farm, which was located two miles across the line in Polk county
and upon which he had erected a new house and farm buildings. After
living there one year he sold the place and bought the T. H. Strickler
farm, containing one hundred and forty acres, which was located in Jas-
per county south of Collins. After he had built a new house and barns
and added other modern improvements to the latter place he took up his
residence there and continued to make it his home until 1896. On the
nth of November, 1895, Mr. Young bought two hundred and forty acres
of land in Collins township, Story county, for which he paid thirty-five
dollar per acre. This property was unimproved when he bought it but
being a progressive man he never hesitates at any e.xpense which will add
to the value of his land. He has always been a strong advocate of til-
ing, in fact was one of the first men in this section to use tile on his farm,
and after he had tiled and fenced his present place he built a fine modern
residence — one of his first considerations always having been the comfort
of his family. He also erected commodious barns and added other mod-
em improvements, which have made his homestead one of the most val-
uable properties in Story county. In 1902 he bought the Pearson farm,
comprising one hundred and twenty acres, which adjoined his on the west,
and five years later he bought one hundred and twenty acres of the Parker
farm, lying within the corporate limits of Collins, making his present realty
holdings amount to four hundred and eight\' acres.
Much of .Mr. Young's success may be ascribed to his e.xtensive and
successful stock-dealing, which has at all times proven to be most re-
munerative. He has probal)ly fed and shipped more carloads of stock in
the past twenty-five years than any other man in Stor)' county, and he
now has on his farm three Inuidred and sixty hogs and one hundred and
sixty-five head of cattle, all of which he is feeding for the market.
Mr. Young established a home of his own by his marriage in 1883, at
the age of twenty-one years, to Miss Lauretha Gibson, the youngest daugh-
ter of David Gibson, who was one of the pioneer settlers of Jasper county,
coming to Iowa from Indiana in tlio early days. Four children have
been born of this union: .Mta. a teacher in the district schools; Fred,
I'lanche and Jose|)h. all of whom are at home.
The family always worship with the Methodist Protestant denomina-
tion, in which church the parents hold membership and of which Mr.
Young has been one of the trustees for several years. He is identified
with the Masonic fraternity through memberslii]) in the I-"crvcnt Lodge,
No. 513, A. F. & A. M.
He is a zealous advocate of the jirinciples of the republican ])arty and,
altiiough he has always been too busily occupied with the direction of his
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 121
private affairs to eitlier seek or accept the responsibility of public office,
he is always to be found at the polls on election day, casting his ballot for
the candidates of the party of his choice.
The study of Air. Young's life but shows what it is possible to achieve
by means of energy, application and perseverance. Thrown upon his own
resources when only a boy, with the equipment of but the rudiments of an
education, and not only maintaining himself but contributing toward the
subsistence of the family, he nevertheless before reaching middle age had
acquired what many never achieve. He is known as one of the most suc-
cessful and substantial farmers and stockmen of this section of the state,
all of which is due to his ability to handle capably and successfully any-
thing which he elects to undertake on a very large scale. The farm which
he bought fifteen years ago for thirty-five dollars per acre is now valued
at one hundred and seventy-seven and one-half dollars per acre, in fact he
has for years had a standing offer at that price. His success at the same
time has not been achieved at the price of another's loss, his great asset
in life ever being his incorruptible integrity, and he today is highly re-
spected and esteemed by all who have ever had occasion to do business
with him as well as by those who have known him socially.
JACOB A. GROSECLOSE.
After acquiring a comfortable competence in the line of agricultural
pursuits Jacob A. Groseclose is now enjoying the fruits of his early en-
deavors and is one of the leading citizens of Union township. He is a son
of Thomas Jefferson and Elizabeth (Wharton) Groseclose, and was born
February 5, 1857. His parents were both natives of Johnson county, In-
diana, where they were married in 1852. In the fall of 1854 they came to
Story county, Iowa, locating on the present homestead. Mr. Groseclose
purchased eighty acres of land entirely uncultivated, from Thomas Lawe,
and there built a log cabin. He at once began to improve this land and
later preempted more land adjoining until he had acquired three hundred
and sixty acres. This he accomplished before he was thirty-one years old,
at which time his death occurred. He was survived by his wife and three
children : Jacob A., the subject of this sketch ; Mary Elmira, the wife of
John Griffith, residing in Indian Creek township ; and Sarah E., who mar-
ried A. J. Hainline and died in 1884, leaving a family of six children. Mrs.
Groseclose is still living and resides with her son.
Jacob A. Groseclose spent his childhood on the home farm, acquiring
his education in the district schools. He was but two years old when his
father died. Apparently he inherited his father's energetic nature for at
the early age of twelve years he was following the plow and studying the
science of agriculture. At the age of sixteen years he took entire charge of
122 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
the farm and from that time devoted his attention to this industry until he
had become the possessor of four hundred and eighty acres of valuable
land in Union townshi]). For many years he turned his attention to cattle
feeding but has done little recently along that line. For the past ten years
Mr. Groseclose has not been actively engaged in farming, as he has rented
most of his land. He is a director in the Citizen's State Bank of Cam-
bridge, Iowa, and is regarded as one of the influential men of his com-
munity.
In his political views Mr. Groseclose is a republican but has never
sought any public favors from his party, preferring to cast his lot with
the rank and file.
XORM.W \V. KXFl'I'ER. M. D.
There is no doubt tiiat the talents of the parents are often inherited by
their children. This fact has been illustrated in numberless instances and
the success of Dr. Xorman W. Kne[)per. of Collins, is additional evidence
in its favor. The father of Dr. Knejiper was a highly successful physician
and the son has demonstrated during an experience of more than twenty
years at Collins that he possesses rare ability in the practice of the healing
art. lie is a native of Berlin, Pennsylvania, born July 17, 1853, a son of
I'^rederick and Elizabeth (Lint) Kncpper, both of whom were natives of
Uerlin. The father was a graduate of the College of Physicians and Sur-
geons, of Philadelphia, and practiced at llerlin, gaining acknowledged prom-
inence in his profession. He passed away in 1S74 in the prime of his life,
being only forty-four years of age. The mother is still living at P.erlin
and has now reached her seventy-ninth year.
Norman W. Knepper received his preliminary education in the public
schools and at sixteen years of age took up tlic study of dentistry, attending
the Philadelphia College of Dental Surgery. He practiced at Berlin until
1877, when he came to Clyde. Iowa, and began reading medicine under
Dr. Ritchey. In the fall of 1878 he entered the medical dci)artment of the
Iowa State University and in 1880 became connected with the Long Island
College Hospital at New York city, continuing in his studies there for two
years, during the last eight months of which time he was on the staff of
hospital surgeons. He was graduated with the title of M. D. in 1882. and
immediately afterward came to Collins, although there was at that time only
four or five houses in the town. The zeal he has devoted to his profession
and the interest he has taken in his patients have led to a marked degree
of success and he ranks today as one of the most prominent jiliysicians in
this part of the state.
On the 4th of July. 1879. Dr. Knejipcr was united in marriage to Miss
Effie Hunt. of Nevada, a daughter of Moses and Catherine (McLainl Itniit.
DR. X. W. KNEPPER
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 125
The parents came from Rhode Island to Story county in 1874 and took up
their residence at Nevada. Two children were born to Dr. and Mrs. Knep-
per: Fred, deceased; and Sayre. The mother of these children departed
this life in April, 1894, and the Doctor was married March 17, 1909, to Miss
Maud Pence, a daughter of William J. Pence, a carpenter, now living at
Cedar Rapids but formerly a resident of Collins township.
Professionally Dr. Isjiepper is a valued member of the Iowa State Med-
ical Society and the Story County Medical Society and fraternally he is
identified with Fervent Lodge No. 513, A. F. & A. M.; Amity Lodge No.
361, I. O. O. F. ; and Crescent Camp No. 2358, M. W. A. He gives his
earnest support to the republican party but has never sought political honors,
as his time and attention are almost wholly given to the duties of his pro-
fession. He was the pioneer physician of Collins and has witnessed the
great transformation from a struggling hamlet to a beautiful modern town
supplied with all the comforts and conveniences of an up-to-date city. Dur-
ing this time he has made a host of friends by his kindly ministrations and
public spirit and he ranks today as one of the most honored citizens of a
section noted for the intelligence and progressiveness of its people.
SEYMOUR W. HIX.
The life record of Seymour W. Hi.x spanned the years from the 20th
of August, 1830, to the 7th of October, 1907. He was born at Medina,
Orleans county. New York, his parents being Ephraim and Laura (Will-
iams) Hix, natives of Michigan and Connecticut respectively. The father
was a shoemaker by trade but after his removal to Jllinois took up the oc-
cupation of farming, which he followed until his death. Both he antl his
wife died in Illinois.
Seymour W. Hix was the third in order of birth in a family of seven
sons and three daughters and resided at the place of his nativity until nine-
teen years of age, when he accompanied his parents on their removal west-
ward to Sycamore, De Kalb county, Illinois. In early life he had learned
and followed the shoemaker's trade and after becoming a resident of Illi-
nois he engaged in the produce business, shipping butter, eggs and poultry
both during and after the war. He remained a resident of Sycamore until
1873, when he removed westward to Story county, Iowa, settling in Sher-
man township, where he purchased and improved a section of land. Later
he bought six quarter sections. He had five hundred and twenty acres in
his home place and resided thereon for sixteen years, during which periofl
three children were added to the family, while six children had been born ere
the removal to Iowa. Upon the home farm Mr. Hix built the largest farm
hoiuie in the county. It was three stories with basement in height and there
were nine rooms on the first floor. There were two rooms, twenty feet
126 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
square, and a hall the whole length of the house on the second floor. This
was used as a ballrom and young people from all over the county were en-
tertained there at many delightful social affairs. On one night there were a
hundred couples attending a dance there and Mrs. Hix cooked supper for
all. Mr. and Mrs. Hix followed a progressive and liberal policy with their
children. They recognized the fact that young people demand and must
have amusement and they did not place the ban upon many sources of en-
tertainment which were largely condemned at an earlier day. They al-
lowed their children to play cards and dance at home, knowing that such
amusements in themselves are innocent and that it is only environment
which can bring harm. That their policy was wise is indicated in the fact
that their eight grown children are now good and substantial citizens — a
credit to the comnuinitics in which they live.
Mr. Hi.x carried on farming on a very extensive scale for a number of
years but at length sold out and erected the residence which his widow
now occupies, making his home in Nevada from 1886 until the time of his
death.
It was on the 24th of February, 1S53. at Mayfield, Illinois, that Mr. Hix
was married to Miss Laura Mumford, who was born in Nova Scotia, July
17, 1833, and w1k-ii eight years of age went to Mayfield, Illinois, with her
parents, Thomas and Sarali (Sillibeer) Mumford. who were natives of Eng-
land and on crossing the .Atlantic to .Vmerica settled in Nova Scotia. Later
they became residents of Illinois, where their last days were spent. They
had a family of five daughters and one son. Mr. and Mrs. Hix lived to
celebrate their fiftieth weilding anniversary. They had nine children: Will-
iam, now living in Deadwood, South Dakota ; \\'alter W., a resident of
Rhodes, Iowa ; Amy, who is the wife of -Asa Mead and resides two miles
south of Nevada ; .\lbcrt D., living in Zearing, Story county ; Charles E., a
resident of Mitchell, South Dakota; Harry J., of Portland, Oregon; Susan,
the wife of Frank Eddy, of Sherman township; Major E., who died at the
age of six months; and Sarah, the wife of Arthur Saunders, of Montana.
In politics Mr. Hix was a stanch democrat and held a number of local
offices, yet never sought nor desired political iireferment. The Hix liome
was known far and wide for its generous and lavish hospitality. Neither
Mr. nor Mrs. Hix ever refused any one a meal or a niglit's lodging. They,
indeed, kept open house and always had extra plates on the table to be ready
for any guests that might come in. In addition a large force of workmen
were employed on the farm in the operation of the hay presses and at times
they were kept busy all winter. The threshers, too, were employed for a
long period, for Mr. llix carried on farming extensively.
In religious faith Mr. Hix was a Universalist and his wife still belongs
to the same church. He was a man of very generous and kindly spirit,
who gave liberally to the poor and needy and was ever ready to extend a
helping hand to those who needed assistance. His warm heart reached out
in sympathy to all and was evidenced in tangible and ready aid. Some one
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 127
has said: "Xot the good that comes to us but the good that comes to the
world through us is the measure of our success," and judged in this way
as well as in the more material things of the business life Mr. Hix was a
most successful man.
Mrs. Hix still survives her husband and spends much of her time in
visiting among her children. She is extremely active for one of her age
and travels alone, three times having visited Portland, Oregon. She has
twenty-three grandchildren living and five great-grandchildren. Her hus-
band left her in very comfortable financial circumstances and she is now
the owner of one hundred and sixty acres of valuable land in Sherman
township. No history of Story county would be complete without mention
of Mr. and Mrs. Hix, for no home has been more hospitable and none have
been more free in according to friend and stranger a warm welcome than
this worthy and honored couple.
RICHARD WILLIAMS.
The life of any man who has forged his way to a position of responsi-
bility through his own exertions is worthy of record. It teaches the im-
portance of industry and self-reliance, as without these characteristics
very little can be accomplished in the modern world. Richard Williams
has from his boyhood been industrious and self-reliant, hence he over-
came many obstacles and is today well established as one of the success-
ful farmers of Story county. Born in Fairfield county, Ohio, July 23,
1849, he is the son of Robert K. and Martha (Brannum) Williams, the
former a native of Greene county, Pennsylvania, and the latter of Fair-
field county, Ohio. The parents removed to Hancock county, Ohio, in
1851, when the subject of this review was two years old and there the
father died in i860. Subsequently the mother took up her residence with
her children and passed away at Fort Wayne, Indiana, October 6, 1907.
Richard Williams was educated in the common schools of the Buckeye
state and continued at home until he arrived at maturity. In 1872, after
having married, he came west by wagon, bringing his household eft'ects
with him, and located in Collins township. Story county, Iowa. He began
farming upon rented land and in 1874 had acquired sufficient capital to
purchase forty acres, which is now a part of his present farm. He has
since made several purchases of adjoining land and at the present time is
the owner of a beautiful farm of two hundred and forty-three acres, which
he has developed from its original state of virgin prairie until it is one of
the most valuable farms in the township. He is equally successful both
as an agriculturist and stock-raiser and as he keeps thoroughly informed
concerning the most advanced methods and the best available markets, his
opinion is much sought by those who desire to keep fully abreast of the
times in all matters pertaming to agricultural interests.
128 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
On the 28th of September, 1871, I\Ir. Williams was united in marriage
in Hancock county, Ohio, to Miss Mary Downing, a daughter of George
Downing, a record of whom is presented in the sketch of Ellsworth Down-
ing in this work. By this union six children have been born, three of
whom are now living: Cora E., the wife of J. H. LafFerty, of New Al-
bany township; Jesse M., at home; and Ihittie, now the wife of J. C. Mc-
Cord, also of Xew Albany township.
Mr. Williams has never devoted much time to [iolities. Imi he S'^'c^ his
adherence to the republican party as the one best qualified to advance the
welfare of the nation. Alert and progressive, he is thoroughly alive as to
the possibilities of the county and state of his adoption. A man of hope-
ful disposition, good judgment and well established character, he fully
deserves the recognition he receives as a patriotic and energetic citizen
who never seeks to advance his personal interest to the injury of another.
HENRY THOMPSON.
On the old Thompson homestead in iloward township stands the house
wliicli has the distinction of having been the home of four generations of
that family and the birthplace of three. The present resident, Henry
Tiiompson, was born there on the 9th of June, i860, and is therefore not
only a native son of Story county, but of Howard township, where he still
continues to make his home. He is the son of Paul and Enger ( Helga-
son ) Thompson, both natives of Norway, the father having been born in
1829 and the mother in 1825. Paul Thompson came to the United States
in 1847 ^"fl located in Kendall county, Illinois, where he remained for
seven years, at the end of which period he came to Story county, Iowa,
and worked as a farm hand until 185(1, when he bought one hundred and
si.xty acres of land from the government, llis entire quarter section was
unbroken and unimproved prairie when he dbtained it. but close ap|ilica-
tion and hard work soon transformed it into well tilled fields, whose har-
vests yielded him the means to add to his acreage so that at the time of
his retirement in 1902 he owned three hundred and sixty acres of thor-
oughly cultivated and well iminnved land. .Mr. and Mrs. Thompson were
married in 1851 and so have long since i)asscd their fiftieth wedding an-
niversary. Three children were born of their union: Thomas Henry, our
subject; Edward, deceased; and one wlm ilied in infancy. The family
always attend the services of the Lutheran church, of which the jiarcnts
are communicants and Mr. Thompson one of the organizers. .After ac-
quiring the full rights of citizenship he affiliated with the reiniblican jiarty.
He was always a public-spirited man and took a warm interest in |)olitics.
serving many years as townshi]> trustee and also as one of the school di-
rectors in his district. In addition to his landed interests, he is a stock-
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 129
holder in the Roland Savings Bank and the Roland Creamery. Mr. and
Mrs. Thompson now live in Roland, enjoying the comfort and leisure pro-
cured by the diligence and economy of their early years. They have many
friends by whom they are highly regarded.
Henry Thompson spent his early years in the unvaried routine which
characterizes country life. He obtained his education in the district schools
of Howard township and remained a member of his father's household.
At twenty-two years of age he undertook the supervision of the home
farm, which he continues to operate. In addition to the three hundred and
sixty acres belonging to his father he has bought one hundred and sixty
of his own, so that he now cultivates five hundred and twenty acres. He
devotes a great deal of attention to the breeding and raising of shorthorns
as well as to the breeding and feeding of hogs.
Mr. Thompson has been twice married, his first wife being Miss Lizzie
Erickson, by w'hom he had two children. Amanda is now the wife of
A. J. Severson, Story City, and the mother of two children, Paul and
Lillian Josephine. Emma married L. E. Quam and has four children :
Lucille, Tessie, Hazel and Leverne. Mrs. Thompson passed away in 1885.
For his second helpmate Mr. Thompson chose Sarah Ann Watney and
they have become the parents of five children : Paul, a graduate of the
Iowa State University ; Elliot ; Cyrus ; Milton ; and Ervin.
The family attend the Lutheran church. Ever since he attained his
majority Mr. Thompson has cast his ballot for the candidates of the re-
publican party, and he has been honored by election to the office of town-
ship trustee. He has met with success in his agricultural pursuits and in
addition to his real-estate holdings is a stockholder in the Farmers Sav-
ings Bank and the Roland Creamery.
COMMODORE PERRY McQUISTON.
It has been forty-five years since Commodore Perry McQuiston took
up his residence on the farm in Collins township on which he now lives.
Today he sees beautiful homes and fertile fields yielding abundant har-
vests where formerly roamed the wolf, the deer or other wild animals of
the forest or prairie. "Mr. McQuiston has been instrumental in bringing
about this wonderful transformation. He was born in Tuscarawas county,
Ohio, March i, 1829, a son of John and Nancy (Bowers) McQuiston,
both natives of Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania. About 1843 the
father removed with his family to La Grange county, Indiana, where he
died ten years later.
The subject of this review continued in charge of the home farm until
it was sold and in 1855, having previously married, he started with his
wife, mother, brothers and sisters and three other families in search of
130 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
more favorable opportunities in the great west. The party came to Jasper
county, Iowa, travehng by wagon and camping out at night en route. The
mother purchased forty acres of land, which one of her sons-in-law cul-
tivated, and she made her home in his family. Subsequently she lived
around among her children, being called away November i, 1887, in her
eighty-ninth year, while stopping with the subject of this review.
Commodore Perry McQuiston devoted his attention during the first
two years after arriving in Jasper county principally to making shingles
and ax handles. At the end of that time he and his brother Silas pur-
chased seventy acres of land which they divided between them, their farms
being located in Jasper county on the Story county line. Here Mr. Mc-
Quiston continued for ten or twelve years, when he traded his place for
si.xty acres in Collins township. Story county, and subsequently bought
forty acres adjoining, making an attractive farm of one hundred acres,
upon which he has since lived continuously. He is a man of acknowledged
ability, upright character and moral worth.
On the 9th of May, 1850, Mr. McQuiston was united in marriage to
Miss Catherine Henning, a daughter of Jacob Henning. a farmer of La
Grange county, Indiana. Unto Mr. and Mrs. McQuiston twelve children
have been born, seven of whom are now living, namely: Eli, of Jasper
county; John Q., who now has charge of his father's place; Charles L.
and George W., both farmers of Collins township; Dora M., who is the
widow of Thomas Holmes and is now living with her father ; Commodore
Perry, of Aitkin county, Minnesota; and Sarah E., the wife of George
Vasey, of Jasper county.
Mr. McQuiston is an earnest supporter of the republican party, and
although his attention has been taken up mainly with his own affairs, he
has served with great acceptance as road supervisor and member of the
school board. He and his wife are thoroughly respected by their neigh-
bors and friends on account of their genial, hospitable characteristics, no
needy stranger ever being turned from their door empty-handed. He has
from his boyhood been active, industrious and efficient ajul now has the
satisfaction of knowing that through his well applied energy he and his
estimable wife arc amply provided for during the remainder of their lives.
ISAAC II. .ATKINSON.
The name of .Atkinson has for more tlian fifty years been familiar to
the inhabitants of Story county. The family having come here in pioneer
days. Isaac H. .Atkinson, the son of Eli and Jestine (Moore) Atkinson,
was born in Knox county. Illinois, on the 4th of October. 183''). His father
was a native of Clark county. Ohio, and his mother of Tazewell county.
West V^irg^nia. They removed to Knox county, Illinois, with their re-
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 131
spective parents when children and there were reared and married. In
1847 they came to Story county, where they lived for one year and then
went to Missouri for a year, at the end of which time they returned to
Knox county, Ilhnois, where they resided for twelve years. In 1862 they
again came to Story county, locating in Palestine township, but in the
spring of 1870 they went to Jasper county and for twelve years were resi-
dents of the latter place. They migrated to Gutherie county, Nebraska,
in 1886 and later went to Washington and Montana. Our subject's mother
has passed away and since October, 1908, the father has made his home
with his son Isaac.
The paternal grandfather of our subject, the Rev. Isaac Atkinson, was
a Methodist minister and came to Story county with his son Eli when the
latter first migrated from Illinois and made his home here during the re-
mainder of his life. Not having any means of conveyance, he traveled all
over Story county on foot in order to carry the gospel to the people. The
story of Christ was told in the log cabin, the primitive schoolhouse, and
sometimes in a clearing in the forest — God's first temple. Mr. Atkinson
was widely known and highly esteemed throughout the district in which he
so long resided. It was said of him that he had conducted more funeral
services during the many years he ministered to the spiritual needs of the
people than any other divine in the state. During the last thirty-five or
forty years of his life he was afflicted with total blindness but no mere
physical infirmity could vanquish a spirit such as his and despite the diffi-
culties he encountered in going from place to place he continued to preach
the word of God. In 1884 he passed away. He was living in Jasper
county at the time, where he had removed late in life from the old home-
stead in Palestine township, this county.
Isaac H. Atkinson, who represents the third generation bearing this
name in Story county, was reared at home. His boyhood and youth were
very similar to those of all pioneer farmer boys attending the district
school, which was conducted in a log schoolhouse very unlike the modern
school buildings seen on the Iowa prairies. He assisted in the work of
the farm and enjoyed such recreations as fell to the lot of the young people
of his day.
On the -th of August, 1881, Mr. Atkinson married Miss Mary Boitnott,
and immediately after this event he began farming on his own account as
a renter, but at the end of four years they went to Nebraska and preempted
one hundred and sixty acres in Frontier county, where they continued to
live for nine years. In 1894 they returned to Story county and remained
here for two years, at the end of which time they again removed to Ne-
braska, residing there until 1900, when they sold their preemption. Re-
turning to this county they rented the farm in Indian Creek township
where they still live and which they now own, having bought it in 1904.
It is one of the fine farms of the locality, containing one hundred and
forty-eight acres of well improved and valuable land.
132 HISTORY OF STORY COU^'T^'
Mr. and Mrs. Atkinson are the parents of nine children: Gertie, the
wife of Fred Lakin. living in Kansas; Lee, of Colo, this county; Sidne)',
who lives in Indian Creek township ; Guy, of McCallsburg, also of this
county ; Archie, George and Devere at home, George being a student in
the high school ; and Lois and Gerald. The family attend the services of
the Christian church, of which the parents are members. Mr. Atkinson
is a republican in his political views, feeling that party's policy of protec-
tion best subserves the interests of the agriculturist, and while he fulfills
his duty as a citizen by casting a vote at each election, he has never sought
any reward for party fealty in the way of political honors. His fraternal
relations are confined to membership in Sylvan Camp, AL W. A. He is
one of those unobtrusive, reliable and substantial citizens highly esteemed
anil respected throughout the community in which he lives because he can
at all times be depended upon to fulfill his duly as he sees it to his coun-
try and fellowmen.
JOHN THOMPSON.
John Thompson, of Collins, who is well known in financial and business
circles in Story and adjacent counties, has achieved a gratifying measure
of success and is today numbered among the prosperous and progressive
men whose work has redounded to his credit and to that of the community,
liorii in Wayne county, Ohio, November 14, 1S41, he is a son m1 William
and Margaret (Moorehead) Thompson, both natives of X'enango county,
Pennsylvania. They were reared in X'enango county and subseciuently
came to Red Rock, Iowa, but later returned to Ohio and lived fur various
periods in Wayne. Stark and Hancock counties. In 1851 the father crossed
the plains to the California gold fields and s])ent twenty-six years on the
Pacific coast, at the end of which time he came to Des Moines, and finally
settled in Jasper county, Iowa, where he jiassed away at the age of eighty-
seven years. The mother was called to her reward at the age of seventy-
five years.
John Thompson continued at home until he arrived at manhood. In
1861 he came to Jasper county, Iowa, and a year later went to Ohio, re-
turning with his mother. The Civil war was then in progress and three of
his brothers were at the front serving in the cause of the Union, but the
subject of this review decided to remain at home to take care of his
mother. His financial resources were extremely limited and he began
farming as a renter, cultivating the land to such good advantage that after
four years he purchased forty acres in Clear Creek township, which he im-
proved and sold, buying another tract of forty acres in the same county.
In about 187."? he purchased eighty acres on section 32, Collins township.
Story county, later adding forty acri's also on section ;i2, and making ad-
ill!. AND .\llis. JOHN lIKiMI'SdX
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 135
ditional purchases until he became the owner of a beautiful farm of two
hundred acres, which he improved and cultivated with highly gratifying
results. In October, 1898, he removed to Collins, where he has since re-
sided. For the past sixteen years he has been engaged in the banking busi-
ness and has gained an acknowledged standing in financial circles on ac-
count of the ability he has displayed in this line.
On the 1st day of January, 1866, ]\Ir. Thompson was united in mar-
riage to Aliss Ann Elizabeth Angelo, a daughter of Samuel W. and Rhoda
{ Burwell) Angelo, a record of whom appears in the sketch of J. B. Angelo,
which is presented elsewhere in this work. Two children have blessed the
union of Mr. and Mrs. Thompson: Walter H., and Rhoda E., fhe wife of
Edward Jones of Collins. Mr. Thompson belongs to the liberal branch of
the democratic party and reserves the right to vote for a candidate irrespec-
tive of political lines. He served for a number of years as member of the
school board. He is identified with Fervent Lodge, No. 513, A. F. & A. M.,
and also with the Odd Fellows. He and his wife are stanch members of
the Christian church, of which he is trustee and elder.
The career of Air. Thompson is a striking example of the ef¥ect of well
directed energy and persistent purpose and should be an inspiration to any
young man who is obliged to face the world and has nothing to depend
upon but his own strong constitution and an unalterable determination to
win. The silent influence of a_ noble life no mortal can tell and it is with
unfeigned pleasure that the sketch of one of Story county's most honored
citizens is herewith presented.
BERT B. WELTY.
Bert B. Welty, for twelve years past in the active practice of law in
Nevada and also prominent as a business mian, was born at Oregon, Ogle
count}-, Illinois, May 31, 1871. He comes of Teutonic ancestry and is a
son of Christian C. and Susan (Poffenberger) Welty, both of whom were
natives of Washington county, Maryland. The father was a farmer, and
at the time of the Civil war, on account of his sympathy with the Union
cause and also because of depredations by soldiers of both armies, who
took his live stock, he lost the accumulations of years. In 1870 he re-
moved to Ogle county, Illinois, living there until 1881, when he took up
his residence in State Center, Marshall county, Iowa. In 1882, however,
he located at Johnson's Grove in Richland township. Story county, Iowa,
where he was actively engaged in farming until 1899, when he retired to
Colo. Iowa, continuing there until 1907. when he passed away at the age
of eighty years. He was a man of rugged physique and many sterling
qualities that greatly endeared him to those with whom he was associated.
136 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
The mother of our subject departed this life in January-, 1906, at the age
of seventy years. She was a consistent member of the Lutheran church.
There were seven children in their family, namely: Daniel D., who is
now living on the farm of his brother; Harvey A., of Spirit Lake, Iowa,
who engaged in teaching for a number of years and is also actively identi-
fied with agricultural interests; Ira C, of Nevada, who has been county
superintendent of schools and is now devoting his attention to his land
interests; Dora May, deceased; Bert B., the subject of this review; David
Guy. of Nevada, who has also taught school and is a stock-buyer and
landowner; and Gertrude \'., the wife of A. B. Alderman, of Marion,
Iowa, who for some years past has served as county superintendent of
schools.
Bert B. Welty was reared on his father's farm and thoroughly in-
structed by him in all details pertaining to agriculture and stock-raising.
He attended the district .schools and taught for several terms. He was
a student in the Iowa State Normal School, at Cedar Falls, from which
he was graduated in 1896. Having decided to devote his attention to the
legal profession, he matriculated at the Iowa State University in the fall
of 1896, graduating with a degree of LL. B. in June, 1898. He at once
began practice at Nevada and possessing natural adaptability for law and
also having made thorough preparation in one of the most noted schools
in the west, he has met with gratifying success from the very start. He
is the owner of a farm east of Nevada of two hundred and forty-five
acres, where he maintains a noted herd of Shetland ponies, to which he
has devoted a great deal of attention, having made two trips to the Shet-
land Islands, Scotland, for the purpose of selecting and importing pedi-
greed stock. He has arranged for a trip to the islands with his family in
i9ri. He also owns eighty acres in Sherman township and an interest
in the Highland Park addition to Nevada, being associated in the latter
enterprise with Judge C. G. Lee and P. E. Shugart. He has other busi-
ness connections and has shown a judgment and discrimination in finan-
cial aflfairs which give great promise for his success along those lines in
the future.
In June, 1900. Mr. Welty was united in marriage to Miss Alice M.
Shoemaker, a native of Indiana and daughter of Daniel and Mattie (Baer)
Shoemaker, who came to Iowa in 1880. Four children have come to
brighten the home of Mr. and Mrs. Welty : Esther M., born September 2.
1901 ; Paul B., February 28, 1904; Mildred A.. July 13. 1906; and Joseph
P., who was born Januarj' 9, 1910. and died July i, 1910.
Mr. Welty is a member of the Story County Bar Association and po-
litically gives his earnest support to the republican party. His religious
belief is indicated by his membership in the Lutheran church. Frater-
nally he is identified with the Knights of Pythias and the Modern Wood-
men of America, and he is a strong ad%'ocatc of the beneficent i)rinciples
of those organizations. He has attained a high jinsition in professional
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 137
ami business circles, and, being a man of unusual energj' and determina-
tion, his friends prophesy for him a brilliant future. Thoroughly honor-
able and straightforward, he is always loyal to his convictions, never swerv-
ing from what he believes to be just and right. It is men of his class,
possessing virility, intelligence and progressiveness that add to the pros-
perity of the county, state and union.
CHARLES J. PORTER.
In Scott county, Iowa, on the 27th of September, 1855, was born
Charles J. Porter, a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Sykes) Porter. The
father was an Irishman by birth but the mother was a native of England,
both coming to this country after reaching maturity. The mother was a
widow when she married Mr. Porter, her first husband being a Mr. Todd,
with whom she had lived in New York city for several years, but after
his death she removed to Iowa and here she met and married Mr. Porter.
In 1867 they removed to Story county, locating on eighty acres of land
which they bought in Indian Creek township, adding to their holdings
from time to time until they had acquired two hundred acres. The father
died on this farm in 1882, but the mother is still living at the advanced
age of eighty-five years and makes her home in Des Moines.
The early years of Charles J. Porter's Hfe were spent under the pa-
ternal roof and were occupied in acquiring an education and in assisting
in the work of the farm. His leisure hours were employed very similarly
to the majority of young people. He laid aside his text-books when he
felt that he had acquired such knowledge as he deemed essential for the
vocation he elected to pursue and then assumed the heavier responsibili-
ties of life. At the age of twenty-one years he left home and the first
two years of his independent life were spent as a farm hand but at the
end of that time he rented land and thereafter worked for himself. Dili-
gence, good management and application enabled him to acquire sufficient
capital to buy a place, so he purchased a farm just one mile north of his
homestead and lived there for four years. At the expiration of that period
he rented his present farm, which at that time was the property of his
father-in-law, N. P. Hall, for seven years and then bought it in 1898.
This is one of the best farms in Indian Creek township, containing one
hundred and thirty acres of well tilled land, with good improvements which
are in excellent repair. Mr. Porter also owns sixty-five acres on section
34 of the same township, which he purchased in 1805. the aggregate of
his realty holdings thus being one hundred and ninety-five acres. For the
past twenty-five years he has made a specialty of feeding stock for the
market, making it a practice to consume all of his crops in this manner,
and he has been most successful in his undertakings.
138 HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY
Mr. Porter established a home of his own by his marriage on the 9th
of September, 1886, to Miss Ellen Hall, the daughter of Noble P. and
-Margaret (Felkner) Hall, early settlers of Story county. They are the
parents of two children: Rose Ethel, the wife of John 1. Fleming, of
Omaha, Nebraska; and Curt C. who lives at home.
The family have always attended the Presbyterian church, of which the
parents are members. The republican party has at all times had the strong
support of Mr. Porter, as he considers its basic principles best adapted to
the protection of home interests and industries. He has never been ah
active participant in politics to the e.xtent of seeking office or desiring pub-
lic honors, but fulfills his duty as a citizen by casting his ballot for the can-
didates of his party. He is regarded as one of the successful and sub-
stantial citizens of his township, whose business methods and high prin-
ciples as well as upright life compel the respect of all.
CHRISTOPHER HARRINGTON.
Among the self-made men of Story county probably none are more
worthy of the success they have attained than Christopher Harrington, the
owner of one of the most productive farms in the county, which he ac-
quired entirely through his own industry and good business judgment. He
was born in St. Lawrence county, New York, July 21, 1855, a son of
Christopher and Julia A. (Rouse) Harrington, the former a native of \'cr-
mont and the latter of Canada. The father was twice married, the mother
of the subject of this review being his second wife. After his second mar-
riage he took up his residence on a farm in St. Lawrence county. New
York, where he lived for twenty-five or thirty years, passing away in
1876. The mother departed this life in 1891.
Christopher Harrington was reared under the kindly influences of a
genial home and received his education in the common schools. He con-
tinued with his parents uiuil twenty-one years of age and then, like many
young men of the east, he decided to cast his fortunes in the Mississippi
valley. Accordingly he went to De Kalb county. Illinois, where he worked
upon a farm for two years, and then in 1879 removed to Story county.
Iowa, and continued in farm work for another period of two years. In
1881 he began renting land and after about twelve years, having acquired
sufficient cajiital, he bought eit;hty acres on section i. Collins townshij).
but he has never lived upon this ])lace. as one year later he ])urchascd the
farm which he had been renting. He is now the owner of two hundred
and forty acres in one body and has made many improvements, converting
this into one of the most valuable jiroperties of its size in the county.
In t88o Mr. Harrington was united in marriage to Miss Dora .\.
Crouch, a daughter of Jacob Crouch, who came from West N'irginia to
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
139
Jasper county, Iowa, in 1852 and shortly afterward took up his residence
in Story county. Five children have blessefl the union of Mr. and Mrs.
Harrington: Charles A., now a farmer of Collins township; Tesse I., a
farmer of Grant township; William J., who is engaged in farming in New
Albany township; and Christopher C. and George N., both of whom are
at home.
Mr. Harrington gives his support to the republican party and although
he has never sought public office, he has served as a member of the school
board and for many years as road supervisor, being largely instrumental
in the construction of the present good roads in the township. At the
present time he is a member of the board of township trustees. Fraternally
he is identified with Crescent Camp. No. 2358, M. W. A. He ranks as
one of the substantial and progressive farmers of the county. In the
early part of his career he overcame many difficulties, keeping in view a
position of independence which he has now gained. He justly stands very
high in the estimation of the community in which he lives, being- regarded
as one of its most valued members.
JONAS A. CHRISTIAN.
One of the best improved farms in Story county is the property of
Jonas A. Christian, the vice president of the Roland Savings Bank, who
was born in Harvard township in 1867. His father, John Christian, was
born in Norway but came to the United States with his parents when he
was twelve years of age. The family located in Kendall county, Illinois,
in the district schools of which John Christian acquired his education.
He remained a member of his father's household until he had reached the
age of twenty-three years, when he removed to Story county. Iowa, to
engage in farming. By purchase he had already acquired the right to one
hundred and twenty acres, upon which he located when he arrived and
made all improvements thereon. He was one of those men who make in-
dustry spell success and by application and economy he became one of
the most extensive landowners in this section of the state, having acquired
title to fourteen hundred acres at the time of his death. He married Miss
Cecelia Pierson and they became the parents of nine children three of
whom are still living: Jonas A.; Otis H., a resident of Aberdeen, South
Dakota ; and Edward. The parents were both members of the Lutheran
church, to which Mr. Christian gave liberal support, being one of the
organizers of the church in Roland. He was a stanch advocate of the
policy of the republican party, for whose candidates he always cast his
liallot. Mrs. Christian is still living at the age of sixty-seven and makes
her home on the farm where they first settled, but her husband passed
away in 1908 at the age of seventy-five years. His only asset when he
140 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
began his business career was an inexliaustible fund of courage, winch
was ever supported by a worthy ambition and strength of purpose, by
means of which he achieved his success.
The early years of Jonas A. Christian's hfe were spent in procuring
an education, performing his share of the farm work and enjoying such
pastimes as the average youth. Me remained at home until he had reached
his majority, when he commenced working for himself. Since that time
he has acquired three hundred and seventy acres of land, all of which he
is cultivating. He makes a specialty of feeding cattle and hogs, and in
this he has met with success. His homestead is well improved, the resi-
dence being one of the handsomest in Story county and containing all of
the modern improvements and many beautiful appointments.
Mr. Christian has been twice married, his first wife being Miss Bessie
Johnson, a daughter of Knute Johnson, by whom he had three children, as
follows: Cora, Maime and Silvia. The wife and mother passed away in
1905. Mr. Christian's ]iresent wife, who was Miss Deona Logan, is the
daughter of Christian Logan. Two children have been born of this union,
twin boys. Julius Cecil and John Logan. Mr. and Mrs. Giristian attend
the Lutheran church, of which denomination they are members. The can-
didates of the republican party always receive his ballot and have ever
since he received the right of citizenship. He is very active in local poli-
tics and is at present serving as trustee in Harvard township. He has
been successful in his various undertakings and in addition to his real
estate is one of the stockholders and officials of the Roland Savings Bank.
He is considered one of the most progressive citizens and foremost busi-
ness men in his community, and Ijoth he and his wife have many friends
who enjoy the gracious Iiospitality of their beautiful home.
C. E. LOXGXFXKER.
C. E. Longnecker, the proprietor of the Calamus Run Stock Farm, w.i-
born in Polk county, Iowa, on the 23d of March, 1865. His father was a
native of Indiana and was but ten years of age when his parents removed
to Iowa, locating in Polk county near Des Moines, where the son grew
to manhood and married Miss Mary Davis, the mother of our subject.
After his marriage Mr. Longnecker settled on a farm in Polk county,
which at that time was a piece of unbroken and unimproved prairie, an<l
there the ])arcnts spent their entire lives, Mrs. Longnecker passing away
in 1875 and her husband twenty-iive years later.
The early years of C. E. Longnecker's life were uneventful, the routine
of the days being varied only by trivial incidenls which hardlv served to
break the monotony. He attended the flistrict school, aided his parents
about tile house and farm, and fur recreation depended upon such diver-
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 141
sions as are made possible for young people living in an unsettled com-
munity. His father ran a sawmill and threshing machine and from his
tenth year Mr. Longnecker served as his assistant, as his strength in-
creased with the passing years more of the work and greater responsi-
bility devolving upon him. This cooperative plan of work remained in
effect until the son became twenty-tive years of age.
On the 30th of March, 1890, Mr. Longnecker was united in marriage
to Miss Allie Cole, a daughter of Henry Cole, of Ma.xwell, and subsequent
to this event he bought a farm of one hundred and twenty acres two miles
south of Collins. It was upon this place the young people began their
life together and were soon able to add another forty-six acres to their
holdings. They resided upon this farm for twelve years and then in 1902
they sold and bought their present homestead in Indian Creek township.
Mr. Longnecker now owns two hundred and forty acres of as fine and well
improved farming land as can be found in the vicinity. During his occu-
pancy he has rebuilt the house, erected a new barn, tiled his land and added
various other improvements, all of which have served to increase the value
of his property. He has become quite prominently known as a stockman
through the breeding of thoroughbred shorthorn cattle and Duroc Jersey
hogs, in both of which he has been most successful.
Mr. and Mrs. Longnecker have become the parents of two sons and
two daughters: Roscoe H., lona B., Ruth and Ralph D., all of whom reside
at home. The family attend the Presbyterian church, of which the parents
are active members, the father having served as a deacon for some years.
Mr. Longnecker is also a member of the Modern Woodmen of America,
and being a strong advocate of prohibition he always casts his vote for the
candidates of that party. In addition to his realty holdings and stock
interests he is a stockholder in the Farmers' Elevator Company of Max-
well. He is known as one of the progressive and intelligent agriculturists
and stockmen of his district and is highly esteemed by all who have had
either business or social relations with him.
JOHN H. GAMBLE.
For thirty years John H. Gamble applied himself industriously to
farming in Story county and then he retired to Maxwell, where he is now
enjoying the fruits of his labors. He was born in Carroll county, Indiana,
December 22, 1854, son of J. D. Gamble, a record of whom is presented in
the sketch of William H. Gamble which appears elsewhere in this work.
John H. Gamble received his education in the common schools and con-
tinued upon the home farm, assisting his father until after reaching man-
hood. In 1876 he began farming on his own account and a year later
purchased eighty acres adjoining the family homestead. Having married,
142 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
he and his bride began housekeeping upon the farm, where he continued
for six years, at tlic same time renting a portion of the homestead. In
1883 he sold his place and purchased one hundred and sixty acres on sec-
tion 22, Indian Creek township, to which he removed. For more than
twenty years he devoted his attention closely and with marked success to
agriculture and stock-raising, and then in 1905 he removed to Maxwell,
where he has since resided. In 1907 he sold his farm and purchased eighty
acres on section 26, wliich he still owns and which is in charge of one of
his sons.
On the 7th of March, 1878, Mr. Gamble was united in marriage to
Miss Clara Maxwell, daughter of Thomas and Nancy Maxwell. Her
father came to Story county about 1852 and is now living in Iowa Center,
being in his eighty-seventh year. Four children were born to Mr. and
Mrs. Gamble, three of whom are now living, namely: \"era, the wife of
Fred Ray, of Rendrick. Iowa; \'an D., now in charge of his father's
farm ; and George M.. of Maxwell. The mother of these children, having
departed this life July 21, 1900, Mr. Gamble was married June 26, 1902,
to Miss Phoebe Moore, a daughter of Lott and Mary (Glenn) Moore.
Her father was a well known farmer of Indian Creek township.
Mr. Gamble has never taken any active part in political or religious
affairs, preferring to devote his energies to his own private interests. He
became a thorough and systematic farmer and by his example of patient
application leading to a gratifying measure of success he influenced many
others to renewed ambition. He reared his children to lives of industry
and accomplished his part in the great work which has transformed the
wild prairie and woodland into the beautiful farms to be .seen in all parts
of the state today.
S. E. COOPER.
The business interests of Story county find a worthy representative in
S. E. Cooper, who has throughout the existence of Maxwell been promi-
nently identified with its u])liuilding and advancement. He is today one of
tJK' leading business men of the city, conducting an u])-to-date furniture
and undertaking establishment, and is president of the Peoples State Bank.
which is one of the reliable financial institutions of this section of the
state. He is a man of good business and executive ability and usually
carries forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes.
A native of Illinois, Mr. Cooper was born in Mercer county, on the
7th of March, 1853. and is the son of John and Rebecca .\nn (Stark)
Ccx>per. His father was a native of Devonshire, England, but was only
three years of age when brought to this country by his parents, who settled
near .Mljany in .\ew York state. Later the family removed to Michigan
lift
BU.SIXE'^S BLOCK OF 8. E. COOPER
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 145
and from there to Mercer county, Illinois, where John Cooper was united
in marriage to ]\Iiss Rebecca Ann Stark, a native of Inthana. Upon a
farm in that county they made their home until i860, when thev removed
to \\'arren county. Iowa, and in 1864 came to Story county, locating in the
village of low'a Center. There the father carried on agricultural pursuits
and was also interested in other business until the spring of 1871. when he
went to Kansas, living in that state for several years. Finally he returned
to Story county and made his home in Maxwell until called to his final rest.
S. E. Cooper was reared on the home farm and acquired his education
in the public schools of Illinois and Iowa. His father being a wagonmaker
by trade, he took up that occupation during his boyhood and continued to
work with him for some years. In 1879 he opened a shop of his own in
Iowa Center, where he carried on business as a wagonmaker for five years.
In 1882 he came to Maxwell, through which village the railroad had been
built the previous winter, and here he erected a building on the corner now
occupied by the Peoples State Bank, it being the second structure built
there. In it he opened a stock of furniture, becoming identified in busi-
ness with the firm of Baldwin & Maxwell, general merchants, under the
name of S. E. Cooper & Company. In 1893 Mr. Cooper bought out his
partners and continued in the furniture business alone. He carries a large
and well selected stock, necessary to meet the demands of his customers
but has not confined his attention alone to the furniture trade for he also
does all of the undertaking business in his locality. On the organization
of the Peoples State Bank, he became its president and has since served in
that capacity. In the spring of 1909 he purchased the Aliller block, which
was built in 1900 at a cost of fourteen thousand dollars but at the present
time would probably cost twenty-five thousand dollars, owing to the rise in
building material. It is the finest business block in a town of its size to
be found anywhere, and Maxw'ell has every reason to be proud of the
institution.
Mr. Cooper was married in 1877 to Miss Nellie Squires of Iowa Cen-
ter, a daughter of Henry and Josephine Squires, and to them were born
seven children, of whom five still survive, namely : Rae, the wife of C. B.
Wells, of Maxwell ; Hugh J., who is engaged in the real-estate business
in Weatherford. Oklahoma; Guy, who is a partner in his father's business;
Hazel, the wife of Sidney Sherman, of Maxwell ; and Nellie, a teacher in
the public schools of this county. The mother of these children died in
1892. and the following year Mr. Cooper was united in marriage to Mrs.
Mattie J. (Moore) Wood of Iowa Center, by whom he has one son, Forest
F., now sixteen years of age.
Fraternally, Mr. Cooper is a member of Social Lodge, No. 463, I. O.
O. F., and three times has represented his lodge in the Grand Lodge of the
state. He is one of the leading members of the organization and wears the
veterans jewel for twenty-five years in good standing. He is also con-
nected with the Yeomen anrl with the Mvstic Workers of the World. In
146 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
his political affiliations he is a republican and has been honored with the
office of mayor of Maxwell, wliich position he acceptably filled for one
term. He has also been a member of the town council and of the school
board continuously since the town was organized. He is today one of the
most prominent business men and leading citizens of Maxwell, and the
honorable position which he has attained is due entirely to his own well
directed efforts, good management and sound judgment, for in starting out
in life for himself he was without capital and had to make his way in the
world unaided by financial support.
JAMES McCOY.
James McCoy, the senior member of the real-estate and insurance firm
of James McCoy & Son, which he organized in August, 1907, is one of
the leading and successful citizens of Colo. His birth occurred in West
Virginia on the 28th of June, 1855. his parents being Rodger and Bridget
(Manahan) McCoy, both of whom were natives of Ireland. They crossed
the Atlantic to the United States in early manhood and womanhoofl, lo-
cating in West \'irginia, where their marriage was celebrated and where
they continued to reside until 1861. That year witnessed their removal
westward to Clinton county, Iowa, where they made their home for two
years, on the ex])iration of which period they went to Sabula, Jackson
county, Iowa. They came to Story county in 1868 and on the 28th of
May of that year Mr. McCoy purchased and located on a farm of eighty
acres situated a mile and a half west of Colo in New Albany township.
Subsequently he extended the boundaries of this farm at two different
times, making the homestead one of two hundred acres. The further cul-
tivation and improvement of the property claimed his time and energies
until 1894, when he put aside the active work of the fields and took u]) his
abode in Colo, where his demise occurred on the 22d of September, 1897.
Tlic i)oriod of his residence in Story county covered almost three decades
and he gained a wide and favorable acquaintance within its lx>rders. Both
he and his wife passed away in the faith of the Catholic church, the latter
being called to her final rest on the 8th of March, 1898.
James McCoy was reared under tlie parental roof and acquired his
education in the public schools of Colo. When a youth of eighteen he
began learning the blacksmith's trade and after completing his apprentice-
ship opened a shop in Colo, being engaged in blacksmithing for about
thirty-five years. While still operating his shop he embarked in the im-
plement business, becoming the proprietor of an establishment of this char-
acter about 1880. Some years later he abandoned blacksmithing and turned
his entire attention to the conduct of his agricultural ini])lenicnt business,
in which he was successfully engaged until the ist of June, 1909, when he
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 147
sold out. For some years prior to that time he had been deahng in real
estate and in August, 1907, established the firm of James McCoy & Son
for the conduct of a real-estate and insurance business. He has secured
a good clientage in this connection and has negotiated a number of im-
portant realty transfers, being thoroughly familiar with the value of prop-
erty and the opportunity for sale or purchase.
On the 24th of November, 1881, Mr. McCoy was united in marriage
to ]\Iiss Sarah O'Donnell, a native of England. Her father, Martin O'Don-
nell, who was born in Ireland, is now a resident of Colo, Iowa. Mr. and
Mr«. ]\IcCoy have two children, namely: Martin R., who is a partner of
his father in the firm of James McCoy & Son; and Mary A., the wife of
H. R. Wilson, of Hope, Kansas.
Mr. McCoy is a democrat in politics and for many years served as a
member of the school board. He is a faithful communicant of the Cath-
olic church and also belongs to the Knights of Columbus and Logan Camp,
No. 1591, M. W. A. His interests are thoroughly identified with those of
Colo and at all times he is ready to lend his aid and cooperation to any
movement intended to benefit this section of the country or promote the
welfare and upbuilding of his adopted county.
CHARLES CARMODY.
As a breeder of Norman and Percheron horses Charles Carmody has
demonstrated an ability v^diich receives recognition from many who are
interested in the improvement of horses and other farm animals. He is
also a successful farmer and has a beautiful place, which includes three
hundred and twenty acres in Sherman township, as a visible evidence of
the deep interest he takes in the work with which he has been connected
since his earliest recollection.
Born in Jersey county, Pennsylvania, April i, 1865, he is the son of
Patrick and Mary (Moroney) Carmody, both natives of Ireland. They
came to America in 1862 and after spending a few years in Pennsylvania
removed to Illinois, settling in Sherman township. Story county, Iowa, in
April, 1882, where Mr. Carmody engaged with a goodly measure of suc-
cess in farming. In 1900 the parents took up their residence in the town
of Nevada and nine years later made their home with a daughter in Ne-
vada township. The father was called away November i, 1909, and the
mother January 4, 1910.
Charles Carmody received his education in the public schools of Illi-
nois and Iowa, coming to this state with his parents at seventeen years of
age. Even as a boy he showed special adaptability to the pursuits of agri-
culture and stock-raising and after reaching manhood he applied himself
with such diligence that he became the owner of one of the most valuable
148 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
farms of Sherman township. For a number of years he has paid special
attention to the breeding of horses, and as he uses sound judgment and
has a thorough understanding of market conditions, he generally succeeds
in receiving a fair price for animals raised upon his farm. Since coming
into possession of his place he has made many improvements, erecting new
buildings and fences, tiling the land and adding many modern accessories
anil equipments, so that his farm is now one of the attractive features of
the landscape in Sherman township.
On the 1 2th of February, 1890, Mr. Carmody was united in marriage
at Colo to Miss Margaret Moroney, a daughter of John and Mary
(Moloney) Moroney both of whom were natives of Ireland. Mrs. Car-
mody was born in luigland, March 25, 1862, and was brought by her
parents to America in 1863. The family lived for a number of years in
Illinois and the father became connected with the railroad business but
later engaged in farming. He moved to Iowa in 1887 and settled in Ne-
vada township. Story county. Four children have blessed the union of
Mr. and Mrs. Carmody: John P., who was born October 23. 1891, and is
now attending business college at Des Moines; Patrick Joseph, who was
born February i. 1893, and is now living on the old homestead in Story
county; Delia, who was born June 16, 1895. ^nd died June 3. 1896; and
Mary Kathryn. born September 16, 1896, now a pupil in the public schools.
Mr. Carmody is a public-spirited and patriotic citizen, ever ready to
extend his assistance to any wortliy cause that aims to develop his part of
the county or to increase the neighborly feeling of the people. He be-
longs to the liberal clement of the democratic party and in local affairs
often votes irrespective of party lines. He is now serving as townsliip
trustee, a position for which he is well qualified, bcin?; thoroughly ac-
c|uninted with the needs of llie townsliii), and for four years he has been
a member of the school board. In religious belief he follows the faith of
liis ancestors and gives his sincere adherence to the Catholic church.
M.\TTH1-:\V C. RE.\G.\N.
Among the retired farmers who are now engaged in business in Max-
well is .Matthew C. Reagan, a native of the Keystone state, having been
born in Fayette couiUy nn tlie ijlh of I'diruary, 1847. ^ son of James and
Rachel (Shaffer) Reagan, who were also both natives of Pennsylvania,
where they were reared and married. The parents migrated to Iowa in
1856, locating on a farm of eighty acres in Jasper county, which the
father had acquired through a land warrant as a soldier in the war of
1812. The winter of 1856-7 was a very severe one and in the spring he
was forced to trade his farm for a forty acre piece and a team of horses,
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 149
as he had lost everything he had. A few months after locating on his
new place, on the 7th of June, 1867, his wife passed away, her death be-
ing caused by fright at the sight of a runaway team in charge of her son,
whom she supposed had been killed. Shortly after her demise the father
went to live with his daughter, with whom he made his home until his
death, which occurred seven years later and on the same day of the month
as that of his wife.
The early years of Matthew C. Reagan were spent under the paternal
roof, and at such times as his services were not required in the work of
the farm he attended the district schools, where he acquired his education.
The most of his schooling was obtained in the old Center school in Clay
Creek township, Jasper county. At the age of twenty-three years he
started to work for himself, hiring out as a farm hand, but after a short
time he became ill and was compelled to return home, where he remained
until the following spring, when he began farming as a renter on eighty
acres of land in Jasper county, which belonged to his father-in-law, re-
maining there for five years. At the end of that period he leased a place
in Collins township. Story county, which he cultivated for three years, and
then returned to Jasper county and after remaining there for one year
again removed to Story county, settling upon eighty acres of raw prairie,
which he had bought in Collins township. This he improved and culti-
vated for two years and then sold it, purchasing another eighty acres of
unimproved land in the same township, which he also disposed of at the
end of three years. Following this he bought eighty acres of improved
land, also in Collins township, and after living there for four years he
sold it and removed to Marshall county. After two years' residence in
the latter place he again returned to Story county for a few years and
subsequently bought a hotel in Rolfe, Pocahontas county, but soon disposed
of this, buying a farm in the same county, where he resided for a time
and then moved to Union county, where he lived for four years. At the
end of that time he returned to Story county, where he has since resided.
He gave up farming in 1906 and removed to Nevada, Iowa, and then in
October, 1910, he purchased the livery stable in Maxwell with wliich he
is still identified.
On the 7th of February, 1870, Mr. Reagan was united in marriage to
Miss Mary L. Plumb, of Jasper county, but a native of Licking county,
Ohio. Eight children were born of this union, five of whom survive :
Rachel, who is the wife of John Hardin, proprietor of the electric light
plant at State Center; Belle, the wife of W. T. Norris, of Nevada; An-
drew George, a farmer of Shipley, Iowa; John H., a resident of Clyde,
North Dakota; and Grover C, farmer. Grant township, this county. The
mother passed away on the 6th of October 1908, and after her death Mr.
Reagan made his home with his son at Shi[)ley until he located in Ma.x-
well.
150 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Although he has never taken an active interest in politics to the extent
of aspiring to public office, Mr. Reagan always votes for the candidates of
the democratic party. He is a member of the Christian church and is one
of the esteemed citizens and highly regarded business men of Maxwell.
THEROX \\'. BLACKMAN.
Among the prosperous business men of Nevada, Blackman Brothers,
vegetable gardeners, are recognized as leaders in their line, their business
each year showing a handsome increase, and the reputation of the firm
now extends over a wide territory in central Iowa. This enviable pros-
perity they have attained through their own exertions and the exercise of
sound business princi])!cs and strictly honorable methods.
Theron W. Blackman, senior member of the firm, was born in Roch-
ester, New York, in 1858. His father, James Blackman, was born in Eng-
land and came to the United States with his parents, the grandfather being
also named James. The family settled on a farm near Rochester, New
York, in 1827. There the father grew to manhood and became identified
with farming interests. He came to Iowa in 1864, locating in Benton
county, where he remained for eight years, at the end of which time he
removed to Nevada and his death occurred there in March, 1907. He gave
his adherence to the republican party except during the last few years of
his life, when he was identified with the cause of prohibition. He was a
stanch believer in the Bible and held membership in the Methodist church.
Our subject's mother, who bore the maiden name of Belinda Ann Allen,
was born near Rochester, New York, in 1836. She was of German and
English descent and, like her husband, was a faithful member of the Meth-
odist church. She departed this life in February, 1907. Two children were
born to them: Theron \V., our subject; and Allen L., who was born in
Benton county, Iowa, in 1864 and is now identified with his brother in
business.
Theron \V. Blackman was reared as a farmer boy and early acquired
a love of nature, which has been one of the prevailing characteristics of
his life. He gained his preliminary education in the country schools and
later became a student in the Nevada high school, where he gained the
foundation of a good education. As he advanced in years he showed evi-
dences of possessing a practical mind and as soon as opportunity pre-
sented he purchased a tract of land just west of Nevada, where he estab-
lished a truck farm, the nucleus of one hundred and ten acres which the
firm now owns. The demand for the products of the farm has grown
steadily and in 1898 the firm erected a greenhouse twenty-two by one hun-
dred feet in size for the propagation of plants to be used on the farm or
disposed of to patrons. A ready market is found for all the produce that
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 151
is raised and there is every indication that the demand will continue to
increase as the years pass. The success of Blackman Brothers is due to
their industry, perseverance and good judgment. The brothers are identi-
fied with the Methodist church and both are active prohibitionists, believ-
ing that the saloon is the greatest enemy of society.
ADELBERT B. MAXWELL, M. D.
Dr. Adelbert B. Maxwell, a member of the medical profession in Ames
and president of the Story County Medical Society, was born in DuPage
county, Illinois, on the loth of February, 1863. He is the son of David N.
and Altha (Bartholomew) Maxwell, the father also being a native of
DuPage county, where he always lived until the family removed to Story
county, Iowa, in 1867. He is no longer engaged in active business. Of
the three children of the family only one is now living, Adelbert B.
Dr. Adelbert B. Maxwell was only four years of age when his parents
located in Story county, so that almost his entire life, with the exception
of the years he was away studying for his profession, have been spent in
this immediate locality. His boyhood and youth were very similar to those
of the majority of men. He attended the district schools, performed such
tasks as were assigned by parental authority and occupied his leisure hours
in the diversions which appeal to every boy who lives in the rural districts.
After he had completed the work of the common schools he entered the
Iowa State College, where he studied for two years. Later he went to
Iowa City and matriculated in the medical department of the Iowa State
University, remaining there for a similar period, but finished his medical
course in the Chicago Plomeopathic Medical College of Chicago, Illinois,
being identified with that institution until his graduation, at which time he
received the degree of M. D. He was a very ambitious young man, how-
ever, having always been a diligent student, and unlike most young physi-
cians, felt that instead of having completed the study of medicine he had
just begun it and so entered Hahnemann Medical College and Hospital,
Chicago, in order to continue his research in the healing art.
After the completion of his post-graduate course Dr. Maxwell returned
to Ames and began the practice of medicine and surgery, in both of which
lines he has proven himself to be most capable and skillful. Later he took
up the special practice of eye and ear. One of his strongest assets in all
probability has been his personality which never fails to soothe and cheer
the patient, while at the same time it inspires confidence in the efficacy of
his art. He also possesses that most essential of all powers to the medical
man acuteness in the diagnosis of disease, as well as the gentle touch and
positive hand of the competent surgeon. He always makes friends in the
sick room as is attested by his large and growing practice.
i:,2 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Dr. ^laxwell has never permitted his professional duties to absorb him
to the extent of releasing him from all of his responsibilities as a public
citizen. He has always voted the republican ticket and takes a keen in-
terest in all municipal affairs, and that his constituency and the general com-
munity regard him favorably is indicated by the fact that he has been city
clerk since 1889; no man ever held an office, however insignificant it might
be, continuously for twenty years unless he held the respect and confidence
of the community.
Fraternally he is identified with the Masonic order, his local affiliation
being with Arcadia Lodge, No. 249, A. F. & A. ]\I., he is also a member of
the Order of the Eastern Star and the Modern Woodmen of America,
Ames Camp, No. 458, the basic principles of which organizations serve to
guide his life.
JACOB D. SCOTT.
One of the best known stockmen in this section of the state was the
late Jacob D. Scott, who for twenty-eight years was a resident of Indian
Creek township. Story county. The son of Robert M. and Mary (Drake)
Scott, he was born in Armstrong county, Pennsylvania, on the 15th of
March, 1854, his parents also being natives of the Keystone state. In
1867 they came west, settling on a farm near Keokuk, Iowa, where they
remained, however, but for one year, at the end of that time removing to
Jasper county. They were residents of the latter county for ten years and
in 1874 they bought a farm one-half mile north of Elwell in Indian Creek
township, this county, which is now owned by O. N. Jory, and here they
continued to live until Mr. Scott retired in 1S90, when they removed to
Maxwell. Mrs. Scott passed away on the 13th of March, 1904, and since
that time he has made his home with his children. He is now living with
his youngest son in Greene county, Missouri.
The boyhood and youth of Jacob D. Scott were very similar to those of
most boys who are reared in the country. He attended the district school
when not occupied in performing his share of the farm work, and indulged
during his leisure in .^uch sports as are usually enjoyed by young people.
At the usual age lie laid aside his text-books and assumed the responsibili-
ties and duties of manhood. Deciding to follow the vocation of farming.
he rented land in the vicinity of his home, where lie cimtinucd to live until
he was thirty years of age.
On the 2ist of .Xugust, 1884, Mr. Scott w-as joined in marriage to Miss
Cynthia Elizabeth Olinger. a daughter of James M. an<l ]\ebecca J. (John)
Olinger. Her father came to Story county from Indiana in 1854 and con-
tinued to live in this state until he passed away on the 8th of .April, 1907.
.\fter his marriage Mr. Scott rented land in Polk county, which he
farmed for two years. Having purchased, in the meantime, eighty acres
MK. AND MRS. J. D. SCdTT
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 155
near where he was renting he removed thereon and continued to reside
there until 1900, at which time he bought one hundred and sixty acres of
land in Story county, upon which he lived until called to his final rest on
the 6th of August, 1910. His death was very sudden and a great shock
to his family and friends.
Eleven children were born unto Mr. and Mrs. Scott, all of whom are
living at home with their mother, with the exception of Lisle G., who is
married and living on a farm near Elwell in this county, the others being
Cecil E., Glen M., Forrest A., J. Burness, Anna Laura, Marion and Marie,
twins, Alice L., Dale John and Arnold R. The family all attend the Chris-
tian church, of which Mr. and Mrs. Scott were members.
Mr. Scott was a stanch republican, feeling that party's policy of pro-
tection was essential to the best interest of home industries. Although he
always cast his ballot at each election he never sought political honors or
public office. His active interest in educational matters caused him to serve
as school director in this district for several years. He was a liberal,
broad-minded, public-spirited man, at all times doing his utmost to pro-
mote every movement for the betterment of the community in which he
lived. Thoughtful and kind to the friendless, aiding the needy, always
striving to bring into the lives of the unfortunate a little cheer, he,, was-
ever highly esteemed and respected.
Mrs. Scott, who was a teacher before her marriage, is a woman of un-
usual culture and refinement, and her home has always been one which
stood for the highest and best, the family occupying an influential position
in the social life of the community.
ADELBERT LEE KENNEDY.
In the list of useful and lucrative occupations of Story county agricul-
ture and stock-raising occupy the premier place. It is to these pursuits
that the county owes its high standing in the state, and few sections of
Iowa can boast of more carefully cultivated fields or of better grades of
live stock. Among the well kept farms is that of Adelbert Lee Kennedy,
who was born near Laporte, Marshall county, Indiana, February 3, 1854,
a son of Emerson and Louisa (Bixby) Kennedy, the former a native of
Ashtabula county, Ohio, and the latter of Steuben county, New York.
They were married in Ohio, to which state the mother had removed as a
child with her parents, and after their marriage went to Marshall county,
Indiana, coming to Iowa in 1857. After spending eleven years in Black
Hawk county, Iowa. Mr. Kennedy purchased a farm of one hundred and
sixty acres on section 10, Collins township. Story county, upon which he
settled. In 1894 he retired from active life and took up his home with a
daughter in Pocahontas county, Iowa, subsequently removing to Oklahoma,
156 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
where he resided with another daughter. He passed away in 1902, and
the mother of our subject departed this life in 1887.
Adelbert Lee Kennedy came to Iowa with his parents and after re-
ceiving his education in the district schools continued upon the home farm
until twenty years of age, when he began life upon his own account. At
the age of twent\'-seven years, having married, he established his home
upon eighty acres of land which he purchased in Collins township and to
which he has added as his resources pennitu-d until he now owns a beau-
tiful farm of one hundred and sixty acres which yields a handsome re\t-
nue. He was for a number of years prominently identitied with the breed-
ing of thoroughbred Aberdeen Angus cattle, but during recent years has
devoted his attention to cattle feeding, in which he has been highly suc-
cessful.
On the 2ist of September, 1881. Mr. Kennedy was united in marriage
to Miss Caroline Dawes, of Decatur county. Iowa, a daughter of John and
Alary (\'an Dorn) Dawes, the former of whom was born at Thomaston,
Lincoln county, Maine, and the latter at \'ans \'alley, Delaware county,
Ohio. Mr. Dawes in his early manhood removed to Delaware county and
after his marriage was engaged in the mercantile business at Alexandria,
Licldng county, Ohio, for twenty years. Subsequently he took up his
residence on the old \'an Dorn hoinestead at \'ans \'alley, where he was
engaged in farming for twenty years. He passed away in 1876, and in
1877 Mrs. Dawes came with her children to Decatur county, Iowa, but
later removed to Bonhomme county, l^oiuh Dakota, where she died in
1896. Mrs. Kennedy's grandfather, William Dawes, was one of three
brothers who came to America from England. James locating in Pennsyl-
vania. Edward in Virginia and Williaiu at Thomaston, Maine. The last
named became United States revenue collector for the port of Thomaston
and was known as one of the leading citizens of the place.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy six children have been born, five of whom
are now living: Mary L., now the wife of F. M. Hanson, state secretary
of the Young Men's Christian Association at Des Moines, Iowa ; Magda-
lene, the wife of R. F. Ralthis. a member of the United States government
forest service, now located at Alamogordo, New Mexico; Maud O.. the
wife of I. O. Schaub, head of the department of agronomy of the State
Agricultural College at Raleigh, North Carolina; Laura D.. who is now
attending the conservatory of music of the Northwestern University, at
Evanston, Illinois; and Bert L., a farmer of Collins township. Mr. Han-
son and Mr. Ralthis are both graduates of the Iowa State .Agricultural
College at Ames, and Professor Schaub is a graduate of a college in Ten-
nessee.
Mr. Kennedy g^ves his adherence to the reiiulilican party and has served
for a number of years in various township offices. He is a true friend of
education and was for fifteen years a member of the school board, being
treasurer of the board for twelve years. Mrs. Kennedy is also greatly
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 157
interested in education. She is a lady of unusual intellectual qualifications
and received her training at the Granville (Ohio) Female College. Mr.
Kennedy is a member of Crescent Camp, No. 1358, M. W. A.; Fervent
Lodge, Xo. 513, A. F. & A. M. ; and of the Order of the Eastern Star,
his wife being also a member of the latter organization. He is not identi-
fied with anv religious denomination, but Mrs. Kennedy is a faithful mem-
ber of the Presbyterian church. They have many friends in Story county
and possess in an unusual degree the confidence and respect of all with
whom they come in contact.
LON G. HARDIN.
Lon G. Hardin, editor of the Ames Times and well known as a repre-
sentative of progressive journalism in Iowa, was born in Fairfield, Jeffer-
son county, this state, on the 5th of December, 1861, his parents being
Anderson G. and Sarah Jane (McConnell) Hardin, the former a native
of Ohio and the latter of Pennsylvania. They came to Iowa in childhood
days with their respective parents, were married in this state and now re-
side in Spencer, Clay county, where the father follows merchandising.
Their family numbers four daughters and two sons.
Lon G. Hardin, the third in order of birth, resided at the place of his
nativity until 1870, when the family removed to Spencer where he re-
mained until 1884. He acquired his education in the public schools of the
two towns and in 1880 began learning the printer's trade which he followed
in Spencer until 1884, when he went to Plankinton, South Dakota, where
he was employed at his trade for a year. He afterward engaged in the
printing business in Webster City, Iowa, until 1892, when in the month of
May he came to Ames and here established the Ames Times, which he has
since published, being sole owner and manager of the paper which he has
made one of the leading country journals of the state. Its editorials are
interesting and indicate wide knowledge of the subject under discussion.
Much attention is paid to the appearance of the paper, and its tasteful ar-
rangement indicates a thorough understanding of the mechanical side of
the art preservative. He well merits the liberal subscription and adver-
tising patronage which is accorded him and which indicates the popularity
of the paper in Ames and throughout the surrounding country.
On the 28th of June, 1885, Mr. Hardin was united in marriage to
Miss Ella R. Eckley, a native of Keokuk county, Iowa, where she resided
until her marriage. They now have one son. Max E., who was born De-
cember 22, 1889, and is now a junior in the Iowa State Agricultural Col-
lege, pursuing a scientific course.
In his political views Mr. Hardin is a stalwart republican and advocate
of the principles of the party through the columns of his paper. He
158 HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY
served as postmaster of the town under appointment of President Mc-
Kinley and President Roosevelt, filling the office for nine years, or until
tlie 13th of Januar}', 1907. He is well known in Masonic circles as a
member of the lodge and chapter at Ames, belongs also to Ames Lodge,
Xo. 150, K. P., and to Boone Lodge, No. 563, B. P. O. E. A social, genial
nature renders him popular, and it is well known that he is an ardent ad-
vocate of progress and improvement in public affairs, stanchly and ag-
gressively advocating measures which he deems factors of general growth
and development.
MICHEL HEGLAXD.
The student of history cannot carry his investigations far into the
records of Story county without learning that the Hegland family has been
prominently connected with the work of upbuilding and improvement here.
For fifty-four years Michel Hegland of this review has resided where he
now makes his home and he has witnessed the growth and development
of the entire countryside and at all times has borne his part in the work
of general improvement.
His birth occurred near Bergen, Norway, on the 13th of January, 1845,
and he was therefore a lad of but twelve years when in 1857 he came to
the United States with his parents, Ole and Betsy (Tungsvig) Hegland.
The father was born in Norway in November, 1802, and the mother on
the 5th of May, 1805. In early life he learned the shoemaker's trade and
followed it in his native country, but throughout the period of his residence
in America his time and energies were devoted to agricultural pursuits.
Two older brothers of Michel Hegland were the first of the family to come
to the new world, having crossed the Atlantic in 1854, at which time they
took up their abode in Illinois. Later they became familiar with condi-
tions in Story county, Iowa, made their way to this district, secured the
lumber and built a good frame house, which the family occupied on their
arrival. It was in 1857 that the parents and the other cliildren of the
household made the long voyage across the briny deep and then overland
to Iowa. The first settlers had come here only the suinnur licfme and the
country was very new. Iowa City was the nearest town. They liad no
market and in fact they had nothing to sell and practically notliing with
which to buy. The fratiie house wiiich llic two sons had erected was one
of the best houses in the county at that time. In fact it was the largest
building in Howard townshij) in pioneer limes and the only frame struc-
ture for a number of years. It was therefore used for church purposes,
Mr. and ^'r*;. Hegland opening their home to the Lutheran congregation,
which was soon organized among the early settlers. No improvements
had been made upon the land when the family took possession but with
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 159
characteristic energy father and sons broke the prairie and planted crops.
At first they raised only enough to supply the family needs. Everything
used was made by hand upon the farm and the fare was principally cracked
corn and pork. Within the boundaries of the farm were embraced one
hundred and sixty acres of land and the soil, naturally rich and productive,
responded readily to the efforts of the owners. The father continued to
engage in general agricultural pursuits until his later years. He reached
the very advanced age of ninety-one and a half years, passing away in
May, 1893, ^"d his wife was also about ninety years of age at the time of
lier demise, which occurred in February, 1895.
Their family numbered seven children. Thor, the eldest, enlisted from
Story county as a soldier of the Civil war and died in the service in Mis-
souri. He and two others were the first Norwegians to enlist from this
county. Lars is a retired farmer living in Roland. Inga is the wife of
John Ritland, of Howard township, living about two and a half miles
north of Roland. Ole O., who served in the Union army as a member of
an Illinois regiment, is now a retired farmer living in Roland. Samuel O.,
who enlisted from Illinois with his brother, is likewise a resident of Roland.
Ole, the second of the name, is a retired farmer of Roland.
The youngest member of the family is Michel Hegland, whose name
introduces this review. He was a lad of twelve years when the family
sailed for the new world and since that time he has continuously lived at
the present place of his residence, which is now within the corporation
limits. There was no town, however, at the time the family took up their
abode here. Michel Hegland was formerly the owner of a farm of one
hundred and si.xty acres, a part of which has now been platted. He also
added forty acres to his original holdings, becoming the owner of two
hundred acres, but sold the farm to his son-in-law, T. C. Erickson. He
retained about two acres and has erected thereon a fine residence, built
in modern style of architecture and supplied with all comforts and con-
veniences. As a farmer he was enterprising, diligent and progressive, de-
voting many years of his life to general agricultural pursuits and stock-
raising. He did not confine his attention entirely to that business, however,
for he became interested in commercial pursuits in Roland, being associated
with his son Lewis in the hardware and implement business for a number
of years. He ever displayed sound judgment in business affairs and keen
discrimination, and the success which he has enjoyed has come to him as
the merited reward of earnest labor.
On the 20th of August, 1870, Mr. Hegland was married to Miss Caro-
line Larson, who was born in Kendall county, Illinois, November 27, 1853,
and was brought to Story county in 1856 by her parents, Rasmus and
Margaret (Sheldahl) Larson, both of whom were natives of Norway, the
former born in November, 1802, and the latter on the 20th of August, 181 1.
They came to the United States in 1845. settling first in Illinois, and on
removing to Story county the father purchased a farm of two hundred
160 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
acres on the present site of Story City. There he and his wife continued
to Hve until called to their final rest, Mr. Larson passing away in Novem-
ber, 1873, and his wife in January, 1901. While he owned a farm he did
not personally engage in agricultural pursuits. He was a mechanic and
while in Norway engaged in watch-making. After coming to the new
world he followed carpentering, shoemaking. and the tinsmith's trade, and
in fact could do anything in mechanical lines. He was a man of unswerv-
ing integrity and possessed sound judgment. People came for miles
around to ask his advice, especially in matters concerning building or buy-
ing. Unto him and his wife were born seven children: Lars, now deceased;
Erick, who was a soldier of the Thirty-second Iowa \olunteer Infantrj'
in the Civil war and is now living at Island, Minnesota ; Randi, the widow
of Ilolver R. Larson and a resident of Story City ; Inger, who is the
widow of Samuel Larson, a brother of her sister's husband and a resident
of Los Angeles, California; Margaret, who is the widow of Jacob Jergen-
son and lives in Story City; Betsy, the deceased wife of the Rev. O. G.
Jukam; and Mrs. Hegland.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hegland have been born twelve children: Betsy,
now the deceased wife of T. C. Jacobson; Martin, who died in infancy;
Margaret, the wife of T. S. Erickson, who is mentioned elsewhere in this
volume; R. L., who was educated at Sioux Falls and is a graduate of a
business college, his home being now in Sharon, North Dakota ; Mary, the
wife of M. O. Anderson ; Henrj' T., who was educated at Sioux Falls and
is now following farming a mile west of Roland; Martin N., who. after
graduating from the high school at Roland and the Lutheran grammar
school at Sioux Falls, South Dakota, spent three years in school at De-
corah, Iowa, as a teacher but is now in Twin \'alley. Minnesota; Clara, a
nurse in the general hospital at Des Moines; L. Roy, at home; and three
who died in infancy.
In his political views Mr. Hegland has always been a stalwart rejiub-
lican since age conferred upon him the right of franchise. He has held
some minor offices but lias never cared much for political preferment. He
belongs to the Bergen Lutheran church and his life is an exemplification
of his Christian faith and belief. His history is in many respects a most
interesting one, for few residents of Roland and this part of the county
have been more closely associated with the pioneer development and sub-
sequent prosperity of tlie district. People today can scarcely realize the
hardships and privations which were borne by the early settlers. Mr.
Hegland was twenty-three years of age before he possessed an overcoat,
and many comforts which the present generation regard as necessities were
at that (late unknown, ll was with difficulty, too, that the farm work was
carried on, for the machinery was very crucle as compared to that in use
at the present time. Much of the work of the fields was done by hand and
the farmer worked from daybreak until dark. Mr. Hegland is still the
owner of one hundred and sixty-three acres of land a mile west <>f Roland,
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 161
which he operated in connection with the cuhivation of his two-hundred-
acre farm that he sold to his son-in-law. At one time he was the owner
of land in Minnesota, Missouri, and North Dakota, in addition to his Iowa
property, but has disposed of his holdings to his children and is now living
retired, enjoying the fruits of his former toil. He has a beautiful home in
Roland, where he is surrounded by the comforts and many of the luxuries
of life, and because of his upright course in business affairs and his un-
faltering energy his fellow townsmen rejoice in what he has accomplished
and feel that his prosperity has been most worthily won.
EDGAR A. FAWCETT.
Edgar A. Fawcett, who through the greater part of his business life
has been identified with banking and is now cashier of the First National
Bank of Nevada, was born on a farm about four and a half miles south
of Colo, December 26. 1871. His parents were Sylvanus S. and Hannah
S. (Gifford) Fawcett, natives of Ohio and Maine, respectively. In his
childhood days the father accompanied his parents on their removal west-
ward to Wisconsin, where he was reared. He went to California during
the first gold excitement in that state, spending six or eight years upon
the Pacific coast, after which he returned by way of the Panama route and
New York city. He continued a resident of Wisconsin until about 1866,
when he drove across the country to Story county, Iowa, settling in New
Albany township, where he resided until 1892, when he retired from busi-
ness life and took up his abode in California. There his remaining days
were passed, his death occurring in May, 1908. He had devoted his entire
life to farming with the exception of the period spent in mining in the
far west, and was the owner of a valuable property of two hundred and
eighty acres. His widow still survives and is now a resident of Los Angeles,
California. In their family were three children : Alfred J., a resident of
Maxwell, Iowa; Edgar A.; and Jennie E., who is living with her mother.
Edgar A. Fawcett was born on the old farm homestead and there re-
sided until his father left the farm. He supplemented his public-school
education by a business course in Western College at Toledo, Iowa, after
which he joined his parents in California and was there engaged in raising
oranges and lemons for six years. On the expiration of that period he
returned to Iowa, settling at Collins, where he entered the Exchange State
Bank in the capacity of bookkeeper, the institution being then known as
Hanson's Private Bank. On the ist of January, 1900, Mr. Fawcett was
appointed deputy county treasurer, which position he filled for four years,
covering two terms. He was twice elected county treasurer, filling the
office for five years. He became connected with the First National Bank
of Nevada on the ist of January, 1909, as assistant cashier and was elected
162 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
cashier on the ist of August, the same year, so that he is tilhng that posi-
tion at the present time. He has had liberal experience in connection with
financial interests and is well qualified for the onerous and responsible du-
ties which devolve upon him.
On the 19th of December, 1900, Mr. Fawcett was unitetl in marriage
to Naomi Thorne. a native of Kansas and a daughter of William B. and
Josephine Thorne who are residents of California. Mr. and Mrs. Fawcett
have become the parents of four children: Naomi L., Harold T., Ruth and
Josephine.
The parents arc members of the Methodist Episcopal church and take
an active part in its work, Mr. Fawcett serving for some time as Sunday
school superintendent. He is also a valued member of the Masonic fra-
ternity, being affiliated with the lodge and chapter at Nevada, and he also
belongs to the Modern Woodman camp. His political allegiance is given
to the republican party and his cooperation is a supporting element in every
measure and movement which tends to promote the public good. As a
business man he is enterprising and energetic, and his close application and
progressive spirit promise well for his success in the future and also are
factors in the present success of the bank.
\\"ILI.1.\M I.OCKRIDGE.
In an enumeration of the men whose records have been a credit and
honor to the city of Nevada it is imperative that mention be made of
William Lockridge, who for many years was actively associated with the
business interests of the city and county and also with municipal affairs
as a public official. Perseverance and industry at length brought him suc-
cess that enabled him to spend the evening of life in quiet retirement. As
the day with its morning of hope and promise, its noontide of activity, its
evening of completed and successful cft'ort. ending in the grateful rest of
night, so was the life of William Lockridge. He was born in .Augusta
county, X'irginia. June 23, 1832, a son of John and Eliza (Irvin) Lock-
ridge. who spent their entire lives upon a farm in the Old Dominion.
They had a family of four sons and three daughters but only one is now liv-
ing. Dr. John E. Locki-i(li,'0. who is engaged in the practice of medicine in
Indianapolis. Indiana.
William Lockridge spent his boyhood and youth in his native state and
was in his twenty-fourth year when, in the spring of 1856, he came to Story
county, Iowa. Here he located a laiK] warrant that bis father had given
him. the father having received the same for his services in the war of
1812. Our subject secured employment in the old courthouse which then
.stood upon the site of the present home of Mrs. Lockridge. For several
years he filled the position of deputy recorder, after which he was elected
WILLIAM L(>( KIMDCK
HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY 165
to the position of recorder and treasurer, the two offices being combined at
that time. He was a supporter of the democratic party and upon its ticket
he was chosen to office. About 1863 he removed to his farm which he had
secured through his father's land warrant and which was located a mile
south of the courthouse. The tract comprised one hundred and sixty acres,
to the development and cultivation of which he devoted his energies for
nine years, working a marked transformation in its appearance. By rea-
son of the improvements he placed upon it he sold to good advantage and
then purchased a lumberyard in Nevada, which he conducted for twenty-
six years. Throughout that period he ranked as one of the leading busi-
ness men of the city, his progressive spirit and his enterprise enabling him
to build up a business of satisfactory proportions that returned to him
gratifying annual income and eventually enabled him to live retired. After
conducting his lumberyard for more than a quarter of a century he sold out
and put aside all business cares save the supervision of his investments.
He was considered one of the most substantial business men of the town
and built the first tile factory there. His progressiveness was tempered by
a safe conservatism and his judgment was sound and reliable so that his
advice was frequently sought by others concerning the advisability of busi-
ness propositions. From time to time he made purchases of land and be-
came the owner of about three hundred acres of valuable farm property
near the fair grounds. He had another farm south of Nevada and six
hundred and forty acres in Kossuth county, Iowa. He became known as
a prominent representative of financial interests here, being president of
the First National Bank for a number of years but resigning in his later
life.
On the 19th of January, i860, Mr. Lockridge was united in marriage to
Miss Lydia A. Letson, who was born in Hardin county, Ohio, January 15,
1 841, and there resided to the age of seventeen years when she came to Ne-
vada with her parents, Christian Bemper and Jane (Huston) Letson, the
former a native of New Jersey and the latter of Ohio. Both died, how-
ever, in Nevada. Iowa, the former at the age of fifty-eight years and the
latter at the advanced age of eighty-three. Mr. Letson prospered in his
undertakings and became the owner of three farms in Story county. Unto
him and his wife were born six children: Delia, the wife of John Waldron,
of Nevada; Mrs. Lockridge; Warren, who is living in Council Bluffs,
Iowa; Helen, the wife of S. F. Balliett. of Des Moines; Rachel, the wife
of Clarence Miller, of Cedar Rapids; and Levina, the wife of W. P. Zwill-
ing, of Nevada.
The marriage of Mr. and ^Irs. Lockridge was blessed with eight
children: Elfa, who is the wife of T. P. Worsley and lives with her wid-
owed mother; Jennie, who became the wife of Frank Warrick and died
in 1903; Etta, the wife of L. A. Will, of Salina, Kansas; Frank, who
died at the age of twenty-one years; Levina, the wife of J. E. Drybread,
of Nevada; ^Maggie, who died at the age of two years; Clarence, who died
166 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
at the age of sixteen years; and Anna Fay. the wife of Emmitt Arm-
strong, of Nevada.
While Mr. Lockridge conducted important business interests and dis-
played an aptitude for successful management in their control, he did not
selfishly concentrate his energies upon business affairs to the exclusion of
all other interests in life. He was a public-spirited citizen and his coopera-
tion could be counted upon to further many measures and movements for
the general good. He served both as a member of the city coimcil and as
mayor of Nevada and exercised his official prerogatives in support of all
projects which he deemed of benefit to the city at large. As chief execu-
tive his administration was businesslike and resulted in the adoption of
various measures of reform and progress. .At one time he was a member
of the Masonic fraternity and he always exemplified in his life the benefi-
cent spirit of the craft, being ever ready to extend a helping hand where
assistance was needed. He died July 2^. 1903. at the advanced age of
seventy-one years. Nevada had long claimed him as one of her prominent
citizens and the basic principles of his life were such as won him the
regard, confidence and honor of all with whom he came in contact.
SOREN V. KALSEM.
In the list of Columbia's adopted children who put on the blue and
fought for the stars and stripes in the south during those momentous days
of the early '60s must be placed the name of Soren \'. Kalsem. He was
born in Norway on the 14th of August, 1836. in which country his boyhood
and youth were passed. He acquired his preliminary education in the
schools of his village and after completing the course of study he entered
a more advanced school and remained there until he felt competent to ap-
prentice himself to a trade. He chose cabinet-making for his life work
and has continued to follow that trade during his residence in the United
States. In 1858 be o])ened the first cabinet-maker's shop in Oskaloosa,
Iowa.
He was one of the first to respond to the call for volunteers and in
1861 enlisted in Company C, Seventh Iowa \*olunteer Infantry. He spent
about three years in the army, much of which time he was actively en-
gaged at the front. He took part in manj- of the notable battles of the
war, being at Shiloh and Fort Donelson and the closely contested engage-
ment at Ijelmont. He was wounded three times and yet bears the scars
of some of those strifes. He now keeps in touch with his old comrades
through his nKinbcrship in Ellsworth Post, No. 30, of the G. A. R.
Mr. Kalsem was united in marriage to Miss Sarena Strom, and they
have become the parents of the following children: Sarah, the wife of
Irvcn Wettland ; Goodm.ui. wlio resides in Marshalltown, Iowa; I'ulion ;
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 167
Berth, who married Rinert Pierson and lives in Union township ; Phillip,
at home; Silas, a railroad man living at Woodbine, Iowa; and Albert and
Cora, both at home.
The family attend the Methodist Episcopal church, in which the parents
hold membership. Ever since acquiring the full rights of citizenship Mr.
Kalsem has cast his vote with the republican party, its principles best con-
forming to his conception of the highest form of government. He has
never aspired to political honors or public office but meets the require-
ments of good citizenship by casting his ballot on election day. He is one
of the pioneer citizens of Story county and has watched the growth and
development of the country from the days when Ames contained but a
few frame dwellings and the country was largely wild prairie. He tells
many entertaining reminiscences of the hardships and privations of the
early days which can hardly be credited by the present generation. He
was for some years the president of the Grange and Farmers Alliance,
Mr, Kalsem owns his own home, which is located on one of the older
streets of the town, and is highly regarded in the community.
WALTER HENRY THOMPSON.
The career of Walter Henry Thompson, cashier and manager of the
Bank of Collins, is a record of worthy ambition under direction of sound
and intelligent judgment. The responsible place he holds is the result of
executive force and clear discrimination and it also calls for successful
management and business talents of a high order, with all of which quali-
ties he is fortunately endowed. He was born in Jasper county, Iowa,
November 3, 1866, son of John and Ann E. (Angelo) Thompson, whose
sketch appears elsewhere in this volume,
Mr, Thompson received his early education in the district schools and
not being especially attracted to agricultural pursuits, became associated
with his father at nineteen years of age in the grocery business at Col-
lins, having the management of the business. Four years later a stock
of dry goods was added, making the concern one of the important mer-
cantile establishments of that part of the county. It was conducted under
the title of Thompson & Son until 1891, when the junior partner came
into possession of the entire business and the title was changed to W, H,
Thompson, so continuing until 1896, when the business was disposed of.
In 1895 Mr. Thompson and his father organized the Bank of Collins, of
which they were sole owners, the subject of this review being cashier and
manager. He has devoted his entire attention to the banking business since
1896 with most gratifying results, the institution being now recognized as
one of the flourishing financial concerns of the county.
168 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
In 1887 Mr. Thompson was united in marriage to Miss Luna Crabb,
a daughter of X'incent and Hester (Wells) Crabb. who came to Story
county from Indiana about 1880. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Thompson
has been brightened by the birth of two children: Forest G., now the wife
of Hugh Graef, of Riceville, Iowa; and John B., now attending the Col-
lins high school.
Mr. Thompson gives his support to the democratic party, and although
his attention has been mainly devoted to his business alTairs, he has served
most acceptably for two terms as mayor of Collins and also for a number
of years as town treasurer. He is connected with Fervent Lodge. Xo. 513,
A. F. & A. M.; Amity Lodge, No. 361, I. O. O. F. ; and Crescent Camp,
No. 2358, M. W. A. He and his estimable wife are also members of Col-
lins Chapter, No. 134, O. E. S.
Owing to habits of industry and able business judgment. Mr. Thomp-
son has been successful financially and has acquired a comfortable com-
petence. Possessing natural ability and discernment, and having had ex-
tensive practical experience with men and affairs, he is well qualified for
the position of responsibility which he occupies and has attained a well
established position as one of the thoroughly capable and progressive men
of Iowa.
ANNA C. RINGGENBERG.
Anna C. Ringgenberg is a native of Manitowoc, Wisconsin, and a
daughter of Gerhardt and Minnie (Carstans) Bierhaus, both natives of
Germany, who came to the United States with their parents when they
were children. The father was a contractor by trade and followed that
business during the greater part of his life. During his last years, how-
ever, he lived retired on a farm. He was a member of the Reformed
church, being identified with that denomination up to the time of his de-
mise in 1897. Mrs. Bierhaus is still living and makes her home in Camp-
bell county, Nebraska. Ten children were born to them, eight of whom
survived, Mrs. Ringgenberg being the oldest of those living. Mr. Bier-
haus was an estimable citizen, his high standards of life and loyalty to the
principles of his adopted country making him a credit to any community
where he lived.
In 1883 Miss Anna C. Bierhaus gave her hand in marriage to Henry
.■\dnlph Ringgenberg, a native of Switzerland and a son of Peter and Anna
KingiL;cnbcrg. By this union there were born three children, as follows:
l-'ranklin, who died at the age of five years; and Calvin and Carl, at home.
Mr. Ringgenberg was a native of the Buckeye state, born in Holmes county,
where he lived until he had reached the age of nine years, at which time
he migrated with his parents to Polk county, Iowa. He resided in the latter
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 169
place until 1900, when he removed to Jamaica, Iowa, but after residing
there for three years he decided to become a resident of Story county and
so located in Ames in 1903, where he continued to live up to the time of
his death in 1909, at the age of fifty-one years. He left a farm of one
hundred and sixty acres in Boone county and one hundred and fifty-five
acres in Story county.
Mr. Ringgenberg united with the Methodist Episcopal church nine years
before his death and continued to hold membership in that denomination
at the time of his demise. He was an ever ready and stanch defender of
the principles of temperance and therefore always cast his vote for the
candidates of the prohibition party, feeling that its policy is best adapted to
improve and strengthen the moral status of the nation. He was a man
of sound principles, high standards of citizenship and incorruptible integ-
rity and upon these he founded his life as well as his business. He was
born and reared on a farm and followed agricultural pursuits until his re-
tirement from active labor nine years before his death. He was a suc-
cessful man and left his family a competence which assures Mrs. Ringgen-
berg of always having sufficient to provide her with all of the necessities
and some of the luxuries of life.
WINFIELD SCOTT SMITH.
The Buckeye state has contributed many stahvart sons who have assisted
in the upbuilding of Iowa and among them may be named Winfield S.
Smith, well known in Story county as one of its most energetic and pro-
gressive citizens. He was born at Mount Vernon, Knox county, Ohio,
October 26, 1850, a son of Aaron and Sarah (Paddock) Smith. The
father was born in Franklin county, Ohio, and came of Dutch ancestry,
the early members of the family in America arriving during the colonial
period. The great-grandfather on the paternal side served in the Revolu-
tionary war from New Jersey. The Smiths came to Ohio about 1810 and
entered land in Franklin county, having the opportunity at that time, had
they so desired, to take up the tract now occupied by the capitol building.
Aaron Smith began his business career as a farmer but later learned the
iron molder's trade and subsequently maintained a foundry at ditiferent
times at Mount Vernon, Westerville and Marion, Ohio, also manufacturing
plows, corn shellers and iron for railroad uses at the last named place.
While at Westerville he enlisted in the Civil war in the spring of 1864 as
a member of Company B, One Hundred and Thirty-third Ohio Volunteer
Infantry, serving until the close of the conflict. He was one of a family
of eight brothers, all of whom were valiant soldiers for the cause of the
Union. Two of the brothers were wounded in battle and one of them
was taken prisoner at the battle of Shiloh. Seven of the brothers returned
170 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
home, one having given up his hfe on the field of battle. In the fall of
1868 Aaron Smith came to Story county, Iowa, and purchased one him-
dred and sixty acres in Milford township, where he spent the remainder
of his days. He died in 1885 at the age of sixty-seven years, having been
born on the 8th of March, 1818. While in Ohio he was an active member
of the United Brethren church. He was identified with the Inde-
pendent Order of Odd Fellows and also with the Grand Army of the
Republic. Originally he was an old line whig but after the organization
of the republican party he gave to it his earnest support. The mother of
our subject was born in Xew Jersey on the 13th of September, 1823, and
traced her ancestry to Holland. Her grandfather Paddock served in a
New Jersey regiment at the time of the Revolutionary war. He and his
brother were taken prisoners by the British but they made their escape
after a short confinement and reached the Continental army in safety.
Mrs. Smith was a woman of many excellent qualities and a consistent
member of the United Brethren church. She was the mother of five chil-
dren, the eldest of whom died in infancy. The other members of the
family were: Levi H., now living at Central Point, Oregon; Winfiekl
Scott, our subject : Eugene, a successful fruit and vegetable grower of
Franklin township, Story county ; and Daniel P., now engaged in fruit
growing in the Hood river district of Oregon.
Winfield S. Smith removed with his parents to Lee county, Illinois,
and in 1868 to Story county, Iowa. As he grew up he assisted his father
upon the home farm and attended the district school in winter. In the
spring of 1876 he went to Kansas and preempted a timber claim upon which
he located, expecting to make it his ]iernianeni home. The first two seasons
were prosperous, but during the next two years a drought prevailed over
that portion of the state and in 1880 .Mr. Smith returned to Milford town-
ship. Story countv. fully convinced that conditions were much more favor-
able here than in certain parts nf the Sunflower state. He purchased
land, which he cultivated diligently and with very satisfactory results until
1890, when he took up his residence in Nevada. He has since devoted his
attention largely to the general oversight of his farm and to the real-estate
and insurance business.
On March 3, 1878, Mr. Smith was united in marriage to Miss Laura
H. Iluckel, who was born in Black Hawk county, Iowa, June 23, i860,
and is a daughter of Joseph and Lizzie (Roberts) Huckel. The parents
came to Iowa from Pennsylvania about 1850 and located in Black Hawk
county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Smith five children have been born: .\aron
L., now a railroad engineer of Sioux City, Iowa ; Harry W., who is con-
nected with the railroad business at Kansas City, Missouri ; Lulu L., wlio
married John Shirk, an expert creamery man, of San Luis Obispo, Cali-
fornia, and is the mother of two children : Edna R., a teacher in the
public schools of Nevada ; and Laura \'., now acting as bookkeeper in the
lournal office at Nevada.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 171
Mr. Smith is not a member of any religious denomination but his wife
and daughters are connected with the Lutheran church. He is identified
with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and is a supporter of the
republican party. He served for a number of years as a member of the
city council and in 1906 was elected justice of the peace and is now enter-
ing upon his third term in that office. In the discharge of his various
duties, both public and private, he has displayed a fairness and ability that
have met the approval of the entire community and today no man stands
higher in the respect of the people of Nevada than the gentleman whose
name introduces this review.
J. A. CAMPBELL.
In the enterprising city of Ames J. A. Campbell occupies a leading
position in business circles, being proprietor of a coal and feed yard. What-
ever success he has achieved in life is attributable entirely to his own
efforts and he deserves much credit for what he has accomplished. He
was born in Milford township, July 25, 1858, a son of James and Anna
(Eccles) Campbell, both of whom were natives of northern Ireland. The
father, who was born February 23, 1808, came alone to America when
eighteen years of age, landing at New York, where he resided until his
removal to the middle west in August, 1855, at which time he took up his
abode in Milford township, Story county, Iowa. This was then largely an
unimproved and unsettled district and he entered eighty acres from the
government on the southeast quarter of section 27. There he spent his
remaining days, having the usual experiences of frontier life and meeting
with the usual difficulties in transforming wild prairie into productive fields.
The journey westward had been made by railroad to Iowa City, which was
then the terminus of the line, and from that point by team. He continued
a worthy and valued resident of the county until his death, which occurred
February 3, 1881. His wife, who was born in northern Ireland, June 13,
1825. sailed for New York with her brother and was married in that city.
She died at the home of her daughter in Marshalltown, Iowa, at the age
of seventy-three years. The father had been previously married. After
first coming to the L^nited States he returned to his native land, was there
married and brought his bride to the new world, but her death occurred
in New York city, where he afterward wedded Anna Eccles. There were
two children by his first marriage : Robert J., of Hollenberg, Kansas ;
and Mrs. Alartha Cressler, living at Berkeley, California. The children
of the second marriage are : William J., who died near Baton Rouge,
Louisiana; Bell, who is the wife of W. W. Gossard and resides at Colorado
Springs, Colorado ; Charles E., who is living upon the old home place which
his father entered from the government: and Sadie, the wife of M. W.
Gossard, of Marshalltow^n, Iowa.
172 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
The other child of the father's second marriage is J. A. Campbell of
this review, who resided upon the old home place with his parents until
he had attained his majority, pursuing his education in the common schools.
At eighteen years of age he began teaching in the district schools and
followed that profession for three years. He began farming on his own
account in Milford township, where he resided until about fourteen years
ago, when he came to Ames. Here he turned his attention to the real-
estate business, which he followed until the spring of 1910, when he sold
out and formed a partnership with C. R. Holdredge under the firm style
of Holdredge & Campbell for the conduct of a coal and feed business.
This partnership continued until January, 191 1, since which time Mr.
Campbell has conducted the business alone. In this he has met with suc-
cess and he now has an extenisve patronage, which he well merits because
his business methods are at all times honorable and reliable.
On the 9th of September, 1880, Mr. Campbell was united in marriage
to Miss Ada Hall, who was born in Lafayette township, Story county,
February 16, 1856, and is a daughter of Alba O. and Mary (Spaulding)
Hall, the father a native of Maine and the mother of \'ermont. They
became pioneer residents of Story county and spent their remaining days
within its borders, both passing away in Ames. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Camp-
bell have been born four children : Fae ; Claud V., who is editor and
publisher of the Jewell Record of Jewell, Iowa; Mabel V., who is head of
the domestic science department of the Illinois Wesleyan University; and
Floy B., who is in the First National Bank at Canon City, Colorado, and
was formerly assistant cashier of the Ames Savings Bank. The youngest
child is a graduate of the high school of Ames and Claud and Mabel are
graduates of the Iowa State College. Mr. Campbell owns a good resi-
dence at Xo. 916 Dayton avenue.
He holds membership with the Masonic fraternity anil the Independeiu
Order of Odd Fellows and also belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church.
His life has been an active, busy and useful one and he has made a credit-
able record, which has gained for him the respect, confidence and good
will of his fellowmen.
NOBLE PORTF.R HAL!..
Noble Porter Hall, one of the well known retired farmers of Story
couiUy, was born in Ross county, Ohio, on the 25th of Dcccml)er, 1831.
He is the son of Thomas and Eliza (, Rosenbarger ) Mall, both natives of
Virginia, who removed to Ross county as children with their respective
parents and there they were reared and married. In 1S36 they located in
Kosciusko county. Indiana, remaining there until the fall of 1854, when
they again started westward, this time locating in Story county, Iowa. The
Nilltl.K !■ IIAl.l,
MRS. XORLK I'. HAI.I.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 177
journey across the prairies to Iowa was made in company with the family
of Jacob Greider. Four wagons with two teams of liorses and two yoke of
oxen were required to transport the various members of the party and their
household effects. The journey was made in comparative ease and with-
out incident of any moment until they had reached Iowa City but very
shortly thereafter cholera broke ctut among the party and one of their
members died and was laid to rest nine miles this side of Marengo. Thev
continued their journey, however, until within two miles of Grinnell, when
they were compelled to go into camp for about three weeks and when they
resumed their march they left behind tliem in the little cemeterv Amos
Hall, brother of our subject, and Mary Greider. During this time the care
of the horses and stock devolved upon ]Mr. Hall and Thomas Edgars, a boy
of the party, and they were indeed busy as well as sad days. Arriving in
Story county they located in Indian Creek township, one mile northeast of
Maxwell, where Thomas Hall bought two hundred acres of unimproved
land, which he immediately began to cultivate. Here on the 22d of Feb-
ruary. 1879, he passed away at the age of sixty-nine years, having been
born on the 29th of May, 1810. Mrs. Hall survived him for four years
and on the 27th day of January, 1883, she died, having passed the seventy-
second milestone in the cycle of life, being born on the nth of January,
181 1. They were the parents of eight children, six of whom survive, four
of them being over seventy years of age. The surviving children are as
follows : iMary Jane, the widow of Augustus Berlin, of Ottawa, Kansas ;
John R., of Maxwell, Iowa; James H., of Maxwell; William C, of Golden
Prairie, Wyoming; Thomas, of Bagley, Iowa; and our subject.
Mr. Hall was reared at home and living in the country in pioneer days
his educational advantages were very limited ; his schooling being confined
to the brief sessions of the district school, which were held in a log build-
ing with puncheon floor and slab benches.
He left the parental roof at the age of nineteen years in order to estab-
lish a home for himself, having been united in marriage on the 29th of No-
vember, 1855, to Aliss Margaret Felkner, of Kosciusko county, Indiana.
For fifteen years he farmed as a renter but in 1862 he removed to Indiana,
locating on the farm of his uncle in Kosciusko county, where he remained
until the fall of 1868. He then returned to Story county and purchased
eighty acres of land on section 23, Indian Creek township, on which he
located in 1871. Later he added to his holdings, forty acres at one time
and ten at another, until his farm contained one hundred and thirty acres.
The land was unimproved when he bought it but in 1871 he erected a house
on it and added other improvements until at the time of his retirement,
twenty years later, it was one of the best farms in that section. In 1891
Mr. and Mrs. Hall removed to Maxwell, where they still reside, and the
following year they sold the farm to their son-in-law, Charles Porter.
Five children were born to them. Nancy E. is the wife of Charles Por-
ter, of Indian Creek township, Rosetta is the wife of Samuel Miller, of
178 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Maxwell. Amy C. is the wife of II. J. Garlock. a banker of Maxwell. Mrs.
Garlock is a graduate of the Maxwell high school and also took a normal
course at Nevada, Iowa. Lulu is the wife of Charles Woods, of Waterloo,
low-a. who was educated at a young ladies seminary at Lebanon, Tennessee.
Mildred, the wife of George H. Hay, a farmer in Polk county, Iowa, was
educated at the Cumberland Presbyterian College at Lincoln, Illinois. All
of their daughters were teachers in the public school prior to their mar-
riage Both Mr. and Mrs. Hall are members of the Presbyterian church.
Mr. Hall is a veteran of the Civil war. having enlisted on the 17th of
February, 1865, in Company B, One Hundred and I'ifty-second Indiana
Volunteer Infantry. He was assigned to both garrison and detached duty
during his service, which was terminated by discharge granted on the
30th of August. 1865. He holds membership in the James Ewing Post,
G. A. R. He votes the democratic ticket, feeling that the basic principle^
of that party are best adapted to subserve the interests of the majority.
He is one of he highly esteemed and respected men of this district, where
more than forty years residence has proven him well worthv of such
regard.
ELIAS W. SHEARER.
The Civil war was a great school out of which came many of the
noblest characters the republic has know-n. Thousands of young men
gained their first lessons in the realities of life in the tremendous conflict
and lived to put into practical aijplicatioii the principles of courage, self-
denial and persistence learned while faithfully serving in the army. Of
this number is Elias W. Shearer, now postmaster of Collins.
He was born in Marion county, Indiana, January 3, 1844, a son of
Michael and Catherine (McCord) Shearer, the former of whom was a
native of Maryland and the latter probably of Ohio. The father was first
married in Pennsylvania and subsequently removed to Indiana, where his
wife died. He subsequently married Miss Catherine McCord. In 1847
he removed to Wapello county. Iowa, locating near Ottumwa, where he
entered government land, which he was industriously developing when he
met his death in an accident while trying to corral a cow. The animal
jumped on a pole which was resting on one of his shoulders and he was
crushed under the weight, leaving a widow with six children, all of whom
were sons. Mrs. Shearer bravely assumed the responsibility and reared
the sons to manhood. Later she married Andrew Shearer, a brother of
her first husband. This faithful wife and mother passed away in Iiinc.
1876.
Elias W. Shearer was reared as a boy upon the home farm and at the
early age of fourteen years began to work for wages among the farmers ni
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 179
the neighborhood. On the lOth of March, 1862, being then eighteen years
of age, he enlisted in Company E, Seventeenth Iowa Infantry, and was
soon sent to the front, participating in many of the great battles and cam-
paigns of the war. He was present at the battles of luka and Corinth, the
siege of Vicksburg and the battles in the neighborhood of that city, being
sent after the surrender of Vicksburg to east Tennessee, where he par-
ticipated in the battle of Missionary Ridge. The regiment was then or-
dered to assist in the relief of Knoxville and later took part in the Atlanta
campaign. Mr. Shearer was never in camp from March i, 1863, until
January i, 1864, being almost constantly upon the move. At eleven o'clock
at night in October, 1864, the regiment was sent to guard a bridge at Til-
ton, Hood's army being then in motion in that immediate vicinity. About
daybreak the pickets began firing and part of the regiment was thrown
forward to guard the picket post, the subject of this review being one of
the number. By nine o'clock they were completely surrounded but con-
tinued to fight until their ammunition was exhausted and at four o'clock
in the afternoon surrendered to General Stewart, commanding one of the
corps of Hood's army. After being deprived of their arms the men were
marched to Cahaba, Alabama, and after a short stop were sent to An-
dersonville prison, in which the subject of this review was incarcerated for
six and one-half months. On the day of his capture he had nothing to
eat and for three days afterward the only rations received by the men of
the regiment was one ear of raw corn. In Andersonville he underwent
great suffering but he survived the awful ordeal and after the surrender of
General Lee was paroled April 28, 1865, at Lake City, Florida. He and
his companions marched to Jacksonville, that state, and from that place
returned home, being discharged at Davenport, June i, 1865.
Mr. Shearer spent the remainder of the summer recuperating with his
mother in Wapello county. As his education had been interfered with
by the war, he attended school for three winters, working at various occu-
pations during the summer months, and in 1868 came to Story county,
locating soon afterward upon eighty acres in Collins township for which
he had traded. Subsequently he purchased forty acres adjoining, upon
which there was a farm residence, and here he lived until his removal to
Collins in 1906. He became the owner of three hundred and sixty acres,
forty acres of which he sold. He also owns one hundred and sixty acres
in Kossuth county, Iowa. Since October 15, 1908, he has filled the office
of postmaster at Collins.
In 1869 Mr. Shearer was united in marriage to Miss Eliza Shenkle, of
Collins township, a daughter of Benjamin Shenkle, who located in that
township in 1854 and was one of its most valued citizens. The following
children blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs. Shearer, namely: Anna Alice,
now deceased, who married E. B. Weese and became the mother of one
child, Florence, who was reared by Mr. and Mrs. Shearer and is now as-
sistant postmaster of Collins; Jennie, the wife of Elmer Bence. of Collins
150 IIISTURY Oi- STORY COUNTY
township; Charles P., of Cumberland, Iowa; George N., of Tama, this
stale; John L., of Kanawha. Iowa; and Edith May, now the wife of Brad-
ford Stevens, who is in charge of the old homestead of Mr. and Mrs.
Shearer.
Mr. Shearer has ever since arriving at voting age given his support to
the republican party and has served in a number of township offices, in-
cluding those of trustee, assessor and township clerk. He has discharged
the duties of postmaster in a way that meets with the general approval of
the people. Being of a genial disposition, his friends may truly be said
to include every man, woman and child of the community. He is a mem-
ber of James Ewing Post, G. A. R., of Ma.xwell, and he and his wife are
supporters of the United Brethren church, by their example demonstrating
the sincerity of their faith as followers of tlie great Master.
WILLIA.M MARION GAMBLE.
The Gamble homestead is one of the best known places in Story county.
It originally comprised a large portion of section 28, Indian Creek town-
ship, but it has recently been divided into two farms. It was here on the
25th of February, 1875, that William Marion Gamble, the son of John D.
and Elizabeth (Mullen) Gamble, was born. The father was from Ten-
nessee, in which state he was born on the 7th of May, 1830, but when he
was seven years of age his parents removed to Indiana, and it was there
he met and married Elizabeth Mullen, who was born in Indiana on the
8th of June, 1835. They migrated to Iowa in 1856, locating in Story
county, where they procured, direct from the government, a portion of
the present home farm. Mr. Gamble was the type of man who makes
perseverance spell success. By his own energy, unflinching purpose and
firm determination he became one of the men of affluence in this section
of the state. He broke the prairie, cleared away the forest and brought to
a high state of cultivation every acre of his farm. His was. no easy task,
for farming implements of those days were crude indeed compared to
those of the present ; then, too, much of the work performed by machines
now at that time was done by hand and days were consumed in the per-
formance of a task which now requires hours. Nevertheless, he steadily
persevered until he had actjuired six hundred acres of as good farming
land as can be procured in the state. Mr. Gamble never retired but con-
tinued to cultivate his farm up to the time of his deatJi on the 27th of
June, 1893.
His political allegiance was given to the democratic party and his party
fealty rewarded by his fellow citizens bestowing upon him various town-
ship offices, in each and all of which he most faithfully discharged his
duties to the universal satisfaction of the communitv. Mrs. Gamble sur-
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 181
vived her husband for thirteen years and on the 6th of January, 1906, she,
too, passed away. Both were members of the Presbyterian church.
The boyhood and youth of WiUiam Marion Gamble was very similar
to that of the average young man reared on the farm. His education was
obtained in the common schools. The task of the schoolroom and the work
of the farm were relieved by the healthy sports and diversions enjoyed by
young people. He wa.s only eighteen years of age when his father died
and thus the duties and responsibilities of manhood early devolved upon
him, as he and his brother, Charles S. Gamble, operated the farm together.
This cooperative plan of work was followed for nine years, then in June,
1902, Charles was married and the November following the brothers de-
cided to divide the farm and work independently. William remained upon
the home place and Charles removed to the farm where he now resides,
which was a portion of the homestead. Our subject's farm contains two
hundred and fifty acres of well tilled land, improved by modern buildings,
which are at all times kept in excellent repair.
On the 19th of November, 1902, Mr. Gamble was united in marriage
to Rosa Ray, a daughter of John and Mary (McCord) Ray, of Maxwell.
They are both members of the Presbyterian church. Ever since age con-
ferred upon him the right of suffrage Mr. Gamble has cast his ballot for
the democratic candidates, and although he has never sought political favor
he nevertheless takes a keen interest in all political issues. Fraternally he
is identified with the Yeomen of America. He is one of the well known
and highly esteemed young men of Indian Creek township, and both he
and his wife are very popular in both church and social circles in the com-
munity where they live.
HERMAN KNAPP.
Herman Knapp, treasurer and registrar of the Iowa State College at
Ames, was born at Poultney, Rutland county, Vermont, December 28,
1863. He is the son of the late Dr. Seaman A. Knapp and Maria Hotch-
kiss Knapp, both of whom were natives of the state of New York. The
Knapps trace to the family of Josiah Knapp, who came as a colonist to
Massachusetts in 1644.
The subject of this sketch came with his parents to Vinton, Iowa, in
1866, where his father lived for a time on a farm and later served as
principal of the Iowa College for the Blind. In 1879 his father having been
elected to the professorship of agriculture in the Iowa State College, he
entered upon his college course, graduating with honors in 1883. He be-
came at once deputy treasurer of the college and the following year was
elected assistant professor of agriculture. He had full charge of the de-
partment during 1886. In 1887, upon the death of General James L.
182 HISTORY Ol" STORY COUNTY
Geddes, he became treasurer and registrar of the college, which position
he now occupies.
The mere enumeration of the duties which have fallen upon his shoulders
during these years shows how intimately he has been identified with the
college in its every interest. Outside of college circles he is recognized
as a leading citizen, having been honored by many positions of trust in
city affairs, at present as a member of the library board. He is adjutant
general of the First Brigade of the Iowa National Guard with the rank of
major. He has also been honored with the state presidency of the Iowa
Society of the Sons of the American Revolution.
In 1885 Professor Knapp was married to Miss .Mary W. McDonald,
of Mount Pleasant, Iowa, who was also a graduate of the State College
in the class of 1883. They have a beautiful home upon the campus of the
college and have a happy family of four children, namely : Seaman A., of
the class of 1909, now connected with the Valley National Bank of Des
Moines, Iowa; Marian Hermine, Jeanette Margaret and Byron McDonald,
the last three being students of the college or the Ames schools.
The "Bomb" of 1907 was dedicated to Professor Knapp in the follow-
ing appropriate w-ords: "To Herman Knapp, a common, big-hearted, lov-
able man. who disregarding fame and fortune, and ])lace and power, has
given the richest years of his unselfish life in loving labor to the upbuilding
and advancing of our alma mater, we as a token of our esteem and admira-
tion dedicate this volume." The Class of 1907.
JOSEPH C. SAWTELL.
-Mthough seventy-four years of age Joseph C. Sawtcll. a well known
and prosperous farmer of New Albany township, still continues to take an
active interest in Im^iness affairs. He has been a resilient of the ti'vwnship
for more than forty years and is honored as one of its most valued citizens.
Born in Lapeer county, Michigan, A])ril 14. 1837. he is the son of Levi
and Mary Ann (Canfield) Sawtell, the former born near the Kennebec
river in Maine, January 21, 1810, and the latter in the same state in 1815.
The mother was of German descent and removed to Michigan in 1836.
The father, who was a carpenter and builder by trade, removed from
Michigan to La Ilarjie, a small town near Nauvoo, Illinois, in 1844. The
troubles with the Mormons soon created intense excitement throughout
that part of the state. Joseph Smith, the Mormon leader, was killed June
27, 1844, while attempting to escape from jail, and soon afterward on ac-
count of the disturbed condition of the community Mr. Sawtell returned
to Lapeer county, Michigan, where he resumed work at his trade. He
passed away in 1887. He was twice married, his second \sife being
Airianda M. Tripp, a daughter of S. Tripp, of Lapeer county.
HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY 183
Joseph C. Sawtell received his education in the common schools of
Michigan and continued with his father until 1857. At twenty years of
age he left his native state, removing to Warren county, Illinois, where
he worked upon a farm and became thoroughly acquainted with the busi-
ness to which he has devoted many years of his life. In 1862, in response
to the call of his country for soldiers, he enlisted for three years in Com-
pany F, Eighty-third Illinois \'olunteer Infantry, the regiment being as-
signed to the Army of the Cumberland. He served under General Thomas,
participating on the 3d of February, 1863, in the second battle of Fort
Donelson, and later he did scout duty. He was a good soldier and was
many times exposed to great danger but came through the conflict un-
scathed. He received his honorable discharge in the fall of 1865, after
serving for three years and two months. Upon being mustered out he
returned to Warren county, Illinois, where he continued for three years,
and then removed to New Albany township. Story county, Iowa, where
he permanently located. As the years passed he became one of the suc-
cessful farmers of the locality, acquiring a valuable place, upon which he
is now living retired, devoting his attention to the Story County Farmers
Insurance Company, of which he was one of the organizers. He is also
agent for several other companies.
On the I2th of April, 1866, in Warren county, Illinois, Mr. Sawtell
was united in marriage to Mrs. Louisa (McMillian) Edgington, a daughter
of John and Harriett (Glaze) McMillian. Four children came to bless this
union. Florence V., who was born July 12, 1867, was educated in the
common schools and at the Chautauqua School of Nursing at Jamestown,
New York, being a graduate of the latter institution. She is now keepijig
house for her father. William A., born September 20, 1869, was married
June 3, 1897, to Catherine Gallantine, of Milburn, Iowa, and is now en-
gaged in the real-estate business at that place, being also postmaster of the
town. Charles H., born November 11, 1872, was married November 11,
1893, on the birthday of himself and wife, to Miss Mary Morgan, of
Colo, a daughter of William and Mary (Fox) Morgan. He is now in
charge of the family homestead. Joseph A., born April 11, 1875, married
Hazel Ritter, of Denver, Colorado, and is now a successful commission
man of Denver. The mother of these children was called from earthly
scenes April 12, 1875, her death being the greatest sorrow Mr. Sawtell has
ever known.
Mr. Sawtell supports the republican party but he is liberal in his political
views, often voting for a candidate at local elections irrespective of party
affiliations. He has not sought the emoluments of office but has served
with recognized ability as justice of the peace of his township and also as
a member of the school board. He is a valued member of the United
Brethren church of Dalton Corners and is also identified with Lodge No.
238, G. A. R., of Colo. As an old soldier Mr. Sawtell deserves the grati-
tude of a generation now enjoying the fruits of a war which cost a vast
184 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
outlay of money and human life. In the great Rebellion he learned the
lessons of self-denial and perseverance which he has applied in every day
affairs, attracting many friends who recognized in him those attributes
which make the true gentleman and loyal citizen.
IRWI.X CLAYTON \VlilTXl£Y.
Irwin Clayton Whitney had been a resident of Stor)- county but two years
at the time of his demise but the period was sufficiently long for him to
prove himself to be a man of high principles and sterling worth. He was
a native of the Buckeye state, having been born in Lorain county on the
17th of June, 1865. his parents being Eli M. and Mary E. (Hale) Whitney.
He was but five years of age when his people migrated to Iowa, settling in
Jasper county, where they lived for a time, and then went to Humboldt
county and after remaining there for a short time they returned to Jasper
county and settled on a farm near Mingo. The latter place continued to be
their home until 18S9. when they removed to Saybrook, Illinois, where Mr.
Whitney passed away on the 20th of May, 1891, and very soon thereafter
the widow with her family located in Maxwell, this county. On the 13th
of February. 1894. Mrs. Whitney was married to R. R. Thompson, whose
death occurred on the 24th of the following June. When a girl of fourteen
years Mrs. Thompson was converted and united with the Baptist church,
but as there was no church of that denomination in Maxwell she joined the
Methodist Episcopal church. She was always an ardent Christian anil an
active worker in the churcli. Her death occurred on the 14th oi December,
1909.
Irwin Clayton Whitney's boyhood and youth were not unlike that of
most boys who live in the country. He remained at home imtil he had
acquired such education as the common schools afTordcd. but being an am-
bitious youth, he laid away his text-books and early began his business ca-
reer. He was married on the 30th of June, 1885, shortly after the twen-
tieth anniversary of his birth, to Miss Mary Dickey, a daughter of Solomon
and Rebecca (Barker) Dickey. Her father was a native of .\thens county.
Ohio, born on the 30th of March, 1828. He c.imc to Iowa in 1834, locating
in Jasper county, and there he was married on the 12th of Sc]neml)cr of
the same year to Rebecca Jane Barker. He acquired some land, ever}' acre
of which was unbroken prairie, and upon this the young people began their
life together, but unremitting toil and careful cultivation in time trans-
formed it into a valuable farm, which remained their home until 1897, when
they removed to Mingo. Mr. Dickey passed away in 1905. He had been
a life-long member of the Methodist Episcopal church and always led an
upright, consistent Christian life, his high principle^ and incorruptible in-
tegrity gaining him the resjiect and esteem of all with whom he came in
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 187
contact. For many years of her life Mrs. Dickey was practically an in-
valid, owing to injuries which she received in the X'aleria cyclone and from
which she never recovered. Although she suffered greatly at times she never
complained, being sustained at all times by her strong faith in the ever-
lasting arms. She passed away on the 26th of May, 1902, at the age of
sixty-two years, having been born in La Grange county, Indiana, on the
25th of December, 1839.
After his marriage Mr. Whitney located on a farm which he rented near
Mingo and after living there for a year he removed to another farm in
Jasper county, where he also remained but one year and then rented a farm
near the one where he had first lived. He remained on the latter place about
eighteen months and then went to Saybrook, Illinois, and after living there
about the same length of time he bought one hundred and sixty acres of
land in Hardin county, Iowa, where he continued to live for eight years.
In 1899 he sold his farm and bought eighty acres in Story county, upon
which he was living at the time of his death and where his widow continues
to reside.
Air. and Airs. Whitney were the parents of si.x children, who are as
follows : Berton Leroy, a farmer of Carroll township, this county ; Carl
Jason, at home ; Jennie Alay, the wife of Roy Bell of Indian Creek town-
ship, this county; Ethel Pearl, the wife of Glen Bell, of Jasper county; and
Clarence Irwin and Elsie Mary, both at home.
The family attend the Methodist Episcopal church, in which Mrs. Whit-
ney holds membership. Mr. Whitney was a stanch supporter of the repub-
lican party, feeling its principles were best adapted to protect the rights of
the majority. He never was an office seeker nor did he at any time aspire
to political honors, preferring to devote his energies to the development of
his private interests. He was ever a most loyal and devoted husband, gen-
erous and affectionate father and charitable neighbor, the loss of whom was
most keenly felt not only in the family circle but in the community where
he had lived.
CLARENCE E. MARKLAND.
Clarence E. Markland, one of the most extensive stock-shippers of
this section of Iowa, the owner of valuable farm property in Story county
and the director of the First National Bank of Nevada, was born in Mc-
Lean county, Illinois, October 20, 1869. His parents, Daniel F. and Hannah
(Miller) Markland, were natives of Ohio, born near Hamilton. They were
reared and married in the Buckeye state and soon afterward removed west-
ward to Illinois, being now located in Pontiac, Illinois. In their family were
seven children of whom Clarence was the third in order of birth. The
record is as follows: Laura, now the wife of W. E. New, of Richland
188 HISTORY OF STORY COL'XTY
township: John, who died in infancy; Clarence E. ; Effie May, who died
at the age of eighteen years; Muzetta, the wife of Maurice Pearl, of Okla-
homa; Liician. of Illinois; and Walter, of North Dakota.
C. E. Markland spent the period of his minority in his native state, and
during much of the time was upon his father's farm working in the fields
through the summer months and acquiring his education in the country
schools in the winter season. He came alone to Nevada in February. 1802.
when in his twenty-third year, and here established a grocery store which
he conducted for about a year and then sold out. On the expiration of
that period he rented land and for eight years engaged in the cultivation of
the soil, during which time he bought and sold a number of tracts of land,
realizing a good profit on most of them. Thus he gradually worked his way
upward financially and in 1901 removed to Nevada, where for four years
he engaged in real estate business, handling much valuable property and
negotiating many important realty transfers. On the expiration of that
period he turned his attention to the live stock business in which he has
since engaged. He buys, feeds and ships stock to Chicago and is the most
extensive shipjjer in Nevada, making his shipments not only from there
but also from other points. He sends about two hundred carloads of
horses, cattle and hogs annually to the state markets. Being an excellent
judge of stock he shows wisdom in his purchases and in his sales which
result jirofitably. Moreover, he has made judicious investments in real
estate and is the owner of four hundred and eighty acres of valuable land
in this county, being divided in three different tracts and located in Grant
and Richland. He is likewise interested in Dakota lands and owns town
properly in Nevada and in Ames and a business block in McCallsburg.
He is a stockholder of the Story County Mutual Telephone Company and
is a director of the I'irst National Bank. He is notably prompt, energetic
and reliable and in the conduct of his business affairs allows no obstacle
or difficulty to brook his path if it can be overcome by earnest and honorable
effort.
In March, 1893, Mr. Markland was married to Miss Hattie M. Daw-
son, who was born in McLean county. Illinois. February 16, 1870, and
in 1890 came to Story county with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. James M.
Dawson. Her mother is now deceased and her father resides with his
daughter. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Markland have been born two children,
Hazel and Irene. In 1909 Mr. Markland purchased his present home, a
fine brick residence wdiich is richly and tastefully furnished.
In politics he is a republican who takes only a citizen's interest in
political affairs, never seeking nor desiring office for himself. He belongs
to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and his wife holds membership
in the Methodist Episcopal church. They are well known socially and their
home is most attractive by reason of its w-arm-hearted and cordial hospi-
tality. Mr. Markland came to Story county empty-handed, nor had he
enjoyed any special advantages in his youth. In the intervening years he
HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY 189
has made continuous progress in business lines and is now one of the sub-
stantial citizens of the community. W^ith a genius for devising and execut-
ing the right thing at the right time, joined to everyday common sense, he
has worked his way upward, utilizing all the advantages that have come to
him and proving at the same time that success and an honored name may
be won simultaneously.
JOHN TWEDT.
John Twedt is now living retired in Roland, where he erected his pres-
ent residence in 1910. He is still connected with the agricultural interests
of the county, however, as the owner of two valuable farms in Howard
township, each comprising one hundred and sixty acres. Both are well
improved and from the property he derives a substantial income. He has
lived in Storey county continuously for about forty-five years, having ar-
rived here in 1866. He was at that time a young man of tweniy-one years,
his birth having occurred at the old family homestead of Twedt, on the
west coast of Norway, March 10, 1845. His parents were John J. and
Carrie (Oldsdatter) Twedt. The mother died in Norway when the son
was twenty years of age and the father afterward came to America with
the subject of this review, spending his last days in Story county. He was
eighty-si.x years of age when he passed away at the home of his son Ole A.
Twedt, who at that time was a resident of Warren township. The family
numbered five sons and two daughters who came to the United States, of
whom three sons and one daughter, Mrs. A. Helvig are still living.
John Twedt made his home at the place of his nativity until he sailed
for the new world. As a boy he worked on a farm with his father and
later spent four years as a sailor. In 1866 he made the voyage across the
Atlantic to the United States and for a brief period lived in Chicago, being
occupied as a sailor on the lakes, and on the 24th of July of that year ar-
rived in Story county, where he has since made his home. He had no
capital at that time and, being dependent upon his own resources for a
living, he secured work as a farm hand, receiving one hundred and twenty-
five dollars for a year's labor. He was ambitious, however, to engage in
farming on his own account, and as soon as possible he rented land on the
present site of Roland. This was in 1868 and he cultivated the tract for
five years. In 1873 he purchased a farm in Howard township comprising
one hundred and sixty acres and resided thereon until 1910, when he re-
tired from business and erected his present home which is one of the com-
fortable and attractive dwellings of Roland. In the meantime he had
added to his landed possessions, having become the owner of three hundred
and twenty acres of rich and valuable farm property in Howard town-
ship, divided into two farms, both of which were well improved. Year
190 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
after year he worked diligently and persistently until his labors had brought
him a measure of success that enabled him to put aside active business
cares and live retired in the enjoyment of the fruits of his former toil.
In 1868 Mr. Twedt was married to Miss Anna X. Erickson, who was
born in Norway in 1848 and came to the United States with her parents
when a year and a half old. The family settled first in Illinois but in 1856
came to Story county where the father took up land from the government
where the town of Roland now stands. Mrs. Twedt was a daughter of
Jacob and Ellen (Michaelson) Erickson, both of whom died in Roland.
Unto our subject and wife have been born eight children: Joseph, who is
now proprietor of a hardware store in Roland; Jacob, living in Milford
township ; Albert, who is engaged in clerking for his brother Joseph in Ro-
land; Ellen, the wife of Thomas Sampson, of Milford township; Carrie,
the wife of P. J. Peterson, of Milford township; Hannah, the wife of Ed-
ward Grove, of Howard township; Lizzie, the wife of J. A. Rutherford, of
California; and Clara, the wife of Elmer Highland, of Howard townshi]).
Since becoming an American citizen Mr. Twedt has given his political
support to the republican party which finds in him an earnest and stalwart
advocate of its principles. He has been called to serve in several local offices
including that of county supervisor, and reelection continued him upon the
board for six years. He also served as school director for about ten years
and (lid much to further the interests of public education. He likewise be-
longs to the Bergen Lutheran church and in its teachings he finds the prin-
ciples which have governed his conduct in all of his relations with the pub-
lic and with his fellowmen. He deserves much credit for what he has ac-
complished in tiie business world, for when he left the land of the midnight
sun his only capital was his determination and his indefatigable industry.
Upon those qualities he has builded his success and never has he taken ad-
vantage of the necessities of his fellowmen in the conduct of his business
dealings.
SAMUEL SWINBANK.
Among the honored citizens of Story county who have passeil away
after having bravely performed their duty in life, should be named Samuel
Swinbank, who was a resident of this county for seventeen years and died
April 12. 1894, in the height of his u.scfulness, at the age of fifty-one years.
He was born in Westmoreland. England, October 2, 1843, ^ son of Joseph
and Jennie (Taylor) ."^winhank. both of whom spent their entire lives in
England, the father devoting his attention to farming.
Samuel Swinbank received his education in the common schools of his
native land and after arriving at a suitable age was apprenticed to the ma-
chinist's trade, in which he became highly proficient. .At twenty-six years
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 191
of age, believing that more favorable conditions existed in America than
were to be found in a thickly settled country of the old world, he emi-
grated to the United States, going direct to Kane county, Illinois, where he
purchased a farm of forty acres and began to carve his way to fortune. He
cultivated the land for eight years and then, seeking still wider opportuni-
ties, removed to Story county in 1877, acquiring land on section 25, New
Albany township, upon which he established the family home. He was of
industrious habits and by his unremitting diligence he transformed his
farm into one of the valuable properties of the township.
On the i6th of February, 1869, in Westmoreland, England, Mr. Swin-
bank was united in marriage to Miss Martha Martindale, a daughter of
William and Martha (Hastwell) Martindale. She was one of a family of
fourteen children and was born January 24, 1844, coming to America with
her husband shortly after their marriage. Five children blessed the union
of Mr. and Mrs. Swinbank, namely : Joseph William, now living on a farm
in Story county, who was born in Kane county, Illinois, February 12, 1871,
and married Miss Emma Walters, of Story county ; .'\da O., who was born
in Kane county, July 26, 1877, and married Charles Graves, of Oregon;
John S., now living on the family homestead, who was born in Story county,
September i, 1879, and married Miss Agnes M. Bullock; Jennie T., who
was born September 5, 1883, and is now living on the old homestead; and
George M., who was born December 29, i886, and is also living at home.
Mr. Swinbank was a consistent member of the United Brethren church
of Dalton's Corners. Politically he gave his support to the republican party,
being an earnest advocate of its principles. He served most acceptably as
a member of the school board and also for many years as roadmaster of his
township. In England he was a member of the Amalgamation of Engin-
eers. Mrs. Swinbank is now living with several of her children on the
home farm of one hundred and twenty acres. She is greatly respected by
her neighbors and friends in the community where she lives, all of whom
have a good word to say of her.
BENJAMIN BROTHERS.
No history of Nevada would be complete without mention of Oscar
John and George .^lonzo FJenjamin, founders of the Nevada Journal, now
edited by them under the name of the Nevada Evening Journal. The
brothers had received comprehensive experience along journalistic lines in
connection with other papers prior to the establishment of the Nevada Jour-
nal, and this thorough knowledge of the art preservative, combined with
keen business sagacity, wise management and progressive and up-to-date
methods have insured the success of their present venture, their paper be-
lUii HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
ing recognized as one of the important and intlucntial factors of com-
munity life in Nevada.
The family of which they are representatives is of German and Irish
lineage. The father, Jcdediah H. Benjamin, was born in New York and
in early boyhood removed with his parents to Peoria county, Illinois, where
his father engaged in agriculture. He remained on the farm until attaining
man's estate, when he entered the mercantile business in Peoria, Illinois,
but after a few years thus spent returned to farming, being thus identified
until 1S90, when he withdrew from active business, the substantial success
which he had attained in agricultural and mercantile lines making it possible
for him to live retired throughout his remaining years. He took up his resi-
dence in Winlield, Kansas, and there passed away in 1909 at the age of
seventy-eight years. A democrat in politics, he held several minor offices,
including that of township supervisor, and was a prominent citizen of the
communities in which he made his home. His wife, who in her maiden-
hood was Julia Maria Tyrel, is also of German and Irish descent. Her
birth occurred in the Empire state and when a young lady she accompanied
her parents to Illinois and was married in Peoria. She still survives, at the
age of seventy years and is a faithful and consistent member of the Presby-
terian church. By her union with Mr. Benjamin she became the mother
of four children, as follows : Oscar John and George Alonzo, who are men-
tioned below; Leitha, who was born near Princeville in 1880 and is now the
wife of John D. Funk, a real-estate dealer of Winlield. Kansas; and Edna,
deceased. By a former marriage Jedediah H. Benjamin had three daugh-
ters, Emma, who wedded J. K. Laycock and now makes her home on a
farm in Story county; Hattie, deceased; and Ida, the wife of H. M. Blanch-
ard, a resident of California.
Oscar John Benjamin, whose birth occurred on the 28th of July. 1869.
at Peoria, Illinois, acquired his preliminary education in the district schools
of Peoria county and later graduated from the Princeville high school.
Later he was given the opportunity of studying in the Princeville Academy
and after putting aside his text-books he entered the office of the Princeville
Telephone to learn the printing business. After an apprenticeship of about
two years he left that office and was employed by various daily newspapers
in several cities in the middle west, where he gained comprehensive knowl-
edge of his chosen line of work. Later he took up independent journalistic
ventures, being associated with three fiitTerciit partners in the management
of as many different papers. The year 1895 witnessed his arrival in Nevada
and here, in connection with his brother, he founded the Nevada Journal.
The wide and varied experience which he had previously acquired in the
newspaper field made his eflorts in the management of this last enterprise
potent elements in what has become one of the successful and prominent
papers of Nevada.
Mr. Benjamin laid tlic foundation for a happy home life of his own in
his marriage, in December. 1900. to Miss Carrie Elliot, who was born in
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 193
St. Charles, Illinois, in 1869, and is the daughter of Abner and Elizabeth
Elliot. He gives his political support to the republican party, while in fra-
ternal circles he is identified with the Knights of Pythias. He belongs to
the International Typographical Union and is one of the prominent and in-
fluential members of the Nevada Commercial Club. Aside from his con-
nection with newspaper interests he is well known in financial and business
circles, being a director of the Peoples Savings Bank and a stockholder of
the Story County Mutual Telephone Company. Thus his excellent business
ability has not only been a factor in the acquirement of an individual suc-
cess which makes him one of the substantial and representative citizens of
Nevada, but also a potent element in the management of various interests
which bear strongly upon the permanent upbuilding and development of the
community.
George Alonzo Benjamin is also one of Illinois' native sons, his birth
occurring near Princeville on the 24th of October, 1871. Like his brother
he received his education in the district schools and Princeville Academy
and also acquired his knowledge of the art preservative in the office of the
Princeville Telephone, which paper was at that time under the management
of an uncle. He remained in that office for several years and was then con-
nected with his brother in various other ventures throughout the middle
west until their arrival in Nevada in 1895, since which time they have been
associated in' the management and publication of the Nevada Journal, now
known as the Nevada Evening Journal. His knowledge of the newspaper
business is also broad and comprehensive and his efforts in behalf of the
Journal are important and resultant forces in the success of the paper.
George A. Benjamin was married on the 15th of January, 1896, to Miss
Grace Johnson, a native of Illinois, who was born on the i8th of Novem-
ber, 1875, a daughter of Rev. J. and Frances Johnson. The father, a min-
ister of the Methodist church, is now in charge of a church in Luray, Kan-
sas. Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin are members of the Presbyterian church,
while in politics he supports the principles and candidates of the republican
party. He has also extended his interests outside of journalistic fields and
is a stockholder in the Story County Mutual Telephone Company.
The Nevada Evening Journal, which was originally established as a
weekly paper, was later converted into a bi-weekly edition and has had a
continuous and gradual growth under the supervision of the Benjamm
brothers, who brought to its inception not only the practical knowledge ac-
quired by many years of experience but also an inherited aptitude for wise
management and good business ability — elements which have proved potent
forces in the upbuilding of the paper. The Journal attracts many readers
by reason of its entertaining discussion of public questions and also as a dis-
tributor of news of general interest. Moreover, the paper is accorded an
extensive advertising patronage, which is well merited for the partners have
ever been quick to adopt new methods, are progressive and up-to-date in
their ideas and their capable conduct of the paper has won the confidence
194 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
of a large circle of patrons. The high personal worth of the brothers has
been widely recognized among their fellownien, who hold them in unquali-
fied respect and esteem, and the honorable and manly principles which have
governed their private as well as their business life make them desirable
and honored citizens of the community.
f. T. HANDSAKER.
Among the large landowners of Sherman township should be named
J. T. ilandsaker, who has spent his entire life in tliis county, attaining
marked success both in agriculture and stock-raising. Upon his farm is
to be seen the only steam plow in Story county and in other respects he
is fully abreast of the times, making use of the best modern facilities and
a])])lying up-to-date methods, thus producing tlie most satisfactory results.
He was born in Richland township, December i8. 1859, a son of William
and Emily (Wyatt) Handsaker. the former born in Staffordshire, Eng-
land, A])ril 6, 1828. and the latter in Indiana. August 7, 1838. The father
emigrated to America in 1854, landing at the port of New York, and soon
afterward he came west to Illinois. Not satisfied, however, with the con-
ditions as he found them east of the Mississippi river, he started in 1855
for Story county, Iowa, walking from the river with George Hyden, who
took up his residence in Richland township. Mr. Handsaker engaged in
farming in this county until 1893, when he retired and removed to Nevada.
He passed away March 31, 1907, but his wife is still living and has ar-
rived at the age of seventy-two years. There were eight children in their
family, namely: J. T.. the subject of this review; Sabina, now Mrs. Day;
and Nona, now Mrs. Ilyncs, both living five miles south of Nevada; W. IL,
of Grant township; H. G., now living on the old homestead; J. H., a
farmer of Richland township; D. P., who died in 1894 at the age of
twenty-eight years, leaving a wife and two children; and Mary Ellen, who
died in infancy.
J. T. Handsaker received his early education in the common schools
and became so proficient in the text-books that he taught school very suc-
cessfully for eight terms. He learned the carpenter's trade and while in
the employ of D. B. Paddleford assisted in the erection of the Lutheran
church at Johnson's Grove in 1880. This building has since been re-
moved to Femald. Subsequently he engaged in the tiling business. In
1883 he settled upon his present farm in Sherman township and for many
years devoted his attention closely to various branches of farming, be-
coming recognized as one of the most successful agriculturists in the county.
Recently he retired from active labors, leaving the work of the farm to
his sons. Father and sons have gained a wide reputation as breeders of
red polled cattle and Poland China hogs. They have also engaged quite
.1. I . II \M)^ AKKl;
MBS. J. T. HAXDSAKER
HISTORY OF' STORY COUNTY 199
extensively in the dairy business and are now regularly shipping one hun-
dred and twenty pounds of high grade butter per week to New York and
Brooklyn.
On the nth of March, 1882, Mr. Handsaker was united in marriage
in Richland township to Margaret Lawman, who was born in Canada, April
17, 1864, a daughter of John and Violet (Elliott) Lawman. Her parents
came to America in 1858 and were married in New York state. After
several removals they settled in Richland township, Story county, where
they have lived for the last thirty-seven years. Four children came to
brighten the home of Mr. and Mrs. Handsaker, namely: Ethel M.. born
Februar}- 9, 1885, was educated in the common schools and in the School
of Music at Ames, and is now living at home. E. Ralph, also on the home
farm, was born November 30, 1886, and was educated in the common
schools, also taking a course in engineering at Charles City, Iowa. John
W., born October 25, 1887, is now living on the old homestead. Thomas
L., born November 25, 1892, is also living at home.
Mr. Handsaker, ever since reaching his majority has given his support
to the republican party. He has not sought the emoluments of office but
has served with great acceptance as township clerk and secretary of the
school board for si.xteen years and as township trustee for eight years. He
is a man of unusual intelligence and keeps fully informed on the progress
of everything pertaining to his calling, to which he has applied with great
success the best efforts of his life. He has witnessed many changes in
Story county. Land when his father came to this county was being sold
by the government at one dollar and twenty-five cents per acre. As late
as 1880 Mr. Handsaker of this review bought one hundred and sixty acres
in this county for seventeen hundred dollars, being a little over ten dollars
and fifty cents per acre. The same land now commands one hundred and
fifty dollars per acre, and the tendency in price is still upward. A worthy
representative of a family which has performed an important part in the
development of the county, Mr. Handsaker now enjoys in comfort and
ease the results of his wisely directed efforts and at the same time is ac-
corded the confidence and respect of the entire community.
DR. SEAMAN A. KNAPP.
Dr. Seaman A. Knapp, who passed away at Washington, D. C, on the
1st of April, 191 1, was the second president of the Iowa State College at
Ames. He was born at Schroon, Essex county, New York, December 16,
1833, and was graduated from Union College in 1856, Phi Beta Kappa. He
was granted six honorary degrees by the Iowa State College and other col-
leges and universities, was vice president of Fort Edward Collegiate
Institute from 1856 until 1863, and associate manager of Ripley Female
200 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
College in 1S64 and 1S65. Failing health caused him to move to Benton
county, Iowa, in 1866. where he served as principal of the Iowa College for
the Blind from 1869 to 1875, when he opened a large fine stock farm at Vin-
ton and became editor of the Western Farm Journal published at Cedar
Rapids. From 1879 until 1886 he was professor of agriculture in the Iowa
State College, while during the years 1883 and 1884 he served as president
of the college. For three years, from 1873 until 1876. he was president of
the Iowa Fine Stock Breeder's Association.
Dr. Knapp left Iowa in 1886 to assume the supervision of a tract of land
in southwestern Louisiana, as large as the state of Connecticut. He in-
troduced to the rice field of the southwest, the wheat machinery of the
northwest. By his great work for rice he became president of the Rice
Growers Association of America, which position he held until his removal
to Washington three years ago.
In 1898, at the request of the secretary of agriculture, he visited the
Philippines, Jai)an and China to report on their agricultural resources. In
1900 he went to Porto Rico on a similar mission. In 1901 and 1902 he
went to Ceylon and India and again to China and Japan, bringing from the
latter a seed rice of great value, which is used today in the southwest.
During this last trip he performed private missions for the secretary of
war in the Philipi)ines and for President Roosevelt in Honolulu.
The crowning work of his life was begun when the secretary of agri-
culture sent him to Texas in 1903 to light the Mexican boll weevil. By
his efforts he turned what seemed the utter destruction of the cotton crop
of the south into a blessing and opened the way for the establishment of
the "Farmer's Cooperative Demonstration Work of the South" of which he
was the originator and the inspiration during the last seven years of his life.
At seventy-seven years of age he had an office force of thirty men, five
hundred field agents, seventy-five thousand adult and forty-six thousand
boy demonstrators, all under the Farmer's Cooperative Demonstration
Work of the United States department of agriculture, the general education
board of New York and the patrons of southern states. By his work the
south has been able to grow two blades of grass, two bales of cotton, and
two bushels of corn where one grew before. His work was to reach the
humblest of southern homes and help them to see the light. Himself the
pro<luct of the classical school, he became the apostle of and gave his life to
the exemplification of modern industrial education.
Dr. Knapp married Maria Hotchkiss, of Washington county, *New York,
in 1856, and left five children to mourn his loss. They are: Mrs. Maria
Knapp Mayo, the wife of A. M. Mayo, of Lake Charles, Louisiana; Her-
man Knapp, treasurer and registrar of Iowa State College. Ames. Iowa ;
Bradford Knapp. connected with the farmer's demonstration work of the
south, of Washington, D. C. ; Seaman Arthur Knapp, cashier of Calcasieu
National Bank. Lake Charles, Louisiana; and Mrs. Helen Knapn Fay. the
wife of Dr. Oliver J. Fay, of Des Moines. Iowa.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 201
Dr. Knapp's remains were brought to Ames for burial in the College
cemetery. He was an educator and philosopher, a gentleman of learning
and culture. Of superior ability, he yet recognized individual obligation
and the truth of the universal brotherhood of mankind.
JOHN Y. LUKE.
The present incumbent of the office of city attorney in Ames is John
Y. Luke, who was born in Galena, Illinois, on the 12th of April, 1870, a
son of John W. and Sarah A. Luke. The father, a native of the Empire
state, was born in Albany county on the 31st of March, 1840, and after
completing his academic education he studied law, being most successfully
identified with that profession during his entire life. In 1882 the family
located in Hampton, Franklin county, Iowa, and there the father died in
January, 1896, but the mother is still living and makes her home in
Hampton.
John Y. Luke, who is the second in a family of nine children, was only
twelve years of age when the family removed to Iowa and therefore has
spent the greater part of his life in this state. After completing the gram-
mar school course he graduated from the high school at Hampton and then
taught in the country. Later he entered the Iowa State College at Ames
and after three years' study in that institution he accepted a position as
principal of the schools in Roland, Iowa. While a student in the high
school he studied law in his father's ofifice and completed his law course and
was admitted to the bar during his two years' residence in Roland. At the
close of his school he opened an office in that place and began practicing.
He only remained there during the summer, however, and in the fall of
1895 he went to Nevada, Iowa, where he formed a partnership with J. F.
Martin under the firm name of Martin & Luke. On the ist of January,
1896, this partnership was dissolved because of the death of Mr. Luke's
father necessitating his return to Hampton to look after the latter's large
practice and business interests. He remained in Hampton for ten years,
and during that period built up a large practice, ])roving through his capable
discharge and execution of the business of his father's clients that he was a
man of unusual mental attainment. His powers of deduction, keen dis-
crimination in grasping the points at issue and his elucidation of the abstruse
problems in a legal entanglement were quickly recognized and accepted at
their full value. In 1907 Mr. Luke came to Ames and entered into partner-
ship with Mr. McCarthy, taking the position in the firm previously held by
Mr. Lee, who was retiring from private practice to accept a position on the
bench. The partnership however, is but a nominal one, Mr. McCarthy hav-
ing retired from active practice.
202 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
In 1S99 at Hampton, Iowa, Mr. Luke was united in marriage to Miss
Lol H. Hoxie, a daughter of W. H. Hoxie and a native of Hampton. One
child has been born of this union, Gilbert M. The family attend the Con-
gregational church and Mr. Luke is fraternally identified with the Knights
of Pythias and the Modern Woodmen of America. Ever since attainmg
his majority he has taken a keen interest in all political issues and has ac-
quired more than a local reputation as a campaign orator, having stumped
the district quite thoroughly in 1896. He ahvay.-; votes the republican ticket
and his party fealty has been rewarded by his constituency electing him to
the office of county attorney while a resident of Franklin county and in ad-
dition he served two terms as city attorney in Hampton, while since re-
moving to Ames his ability has been recognized by his election to the posi-
tion of city attorney. He belongs to that body of young politicians who are
striving to bring up the political standard of the country and makes no
promises or assurances to bis supporters which he does not honestly in-
tend to maintain.
FRANCIS E. GUNDER.
The spirit of enterprise which has always been the dominant factor in
the upbuilding of the middle west finds expression in the life of Francis
E. Gunder, a progressive and rei^resentative farmer of Franklin township,
living on section 35. He was born in Colfax township, P.oone county, Iowa.
December 31, 1869, a son of Casper and Elizabeth (Savits) Gunder. The
father was born in Germany on the ist of January-, 1812. and was but four
years of age when brought to America by his parents, who settled in Penn-
sylvania. He was reared to farm life in that state and was married in
Cumberland county, after which he removed westward to Illinois, where
he spent two or three years. In 1865 he arrived in Roone county. Iowa,
and later took up his abode upon the farm on section 35. Franklin town-
ship, Story county, which is now the home of his son Francis. It was upon
this place that his remaining days were passed, covering a period of a quar-
ter of a century, and his death occurred September 6, 1890. He owned
here sixty-five acres of land, to which the son Francis has since added.
The father was a shoemaker and followed that trade before he came to the
west but always gave his attention in Iowa to farming. His widow still
survives him. She was bom in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, October
I, 1828, and now resides with her son Francis, who is the youngest of a
family of twelve children, eight sons and four daughters, of whom six sons
and two daughters are now living, although they are widely scattered.
When a lad of eleven years Francis E. Gunder accompanied his parents
on their removal to .Ames, and in 1883 the family took up their abode on
section 35, Franklin townshiji. where he has since lived. Adding to his
HISTORY OF' STORY COUNTY 203
father's original purchase of sixty-five acres, lie is today the owner of an
excellent farm of one hundred and ninety acres pleasantly located a half
mile north of Ames and known as the Oak Grove Farm. He conducts a
dairy business, milking about thirty cows and selling the milk to the whole-
sale trade. He has been engaged in dairying for about five years and finds
this a profitable source of income. At the same time he carefully develops
his fields and gathers therefrom abundant harvests. His home is a modern
nine-room brick building, which was erected in 1907, in attractive style of
architecture and equipped with all modern comforts and conveniences.
There are also good outbuildings upon the place, which he erected, and a
house which is occupied by a tenant.
Mr. Gunder has been married twice. In 1891 he wedded Dora Novvn-
ing, a native of Story county, and a daughter of James and Abbie Nowning.
Mrs. Gunder died in April, 1903, leaving two children, Virgil and Byron.
In June, 1904, Mr. Gunder wedded Katherine Cooney, a native of Dallas
county, Iowa, although reared in Illinois. Her parents were William and
Mary Cooney. Two children have been born of the second marriage,
Dwight F. and Lolita E. The family are most pleasantly located in one of
the beautiful country homes of Story county. Mr. Gunder has his own
electric light plant which lights both the house and barns. He also has a
water system, supplying the house and barns, and a gasoline power engine
for grinding feed, as well as generating electricity and pumping water.
Both he and his wife are members of the United Brethren church at Ames
and their many sterling qualities have gained them an extensive circle of
friends. In matters of citizenship Mr. Gunder is progressive and gives his
hearty cooperation to many movements for the general good. In business
affairs he is thoroughly reliable and has followed pi'ogressive methods which
may well serve as an example for others who are connected with the agri-
cultural interests of the county.
THOiMAS W. RAVVSON.
A bright example of success in a responsible vocation is shown in the
career of Thomas W. Rawson, cashier of the Farmers Savings Bank of
Slater. Starting upon his business career with a laudable ambition and im-
bued with high ideals, he attained a position of trust, which he fills to the
entire satisfaction of the directors and stockholders of the bank. He was
born in Dallas county. Iowa, September 15. 1878, a son of Edmund A. and
Catherine (Huston) Rawson, the former a native of New Hampshire and
the latter of Pennsylvania. The father came to Iowa in his early manhood
and served as principal of the schools of Panora, Dallas county, Iowa, later
engaging in farming in the same county. His first wife having died he
went to Oneida, Illinois, where he was married to Catherine Huston. Re-
204 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
turning to Dallas county, he taught school and farmed and also took up the
study of medicine, subsequently entering the medical department of the
State University at Iowa City, from which he was graduated with the de-
gree of M. D. in 1884. He practiced in Sheldahl until the town of Slater
was organized, when he took up his residence in this place. Here he con-
tinued in successful practice until his retirement, in July, 1910. He is now
making his home in Boise City, Idaho. He is a member of the Independent
Order of Odd Fellows, and he and his wife are both identified with the
English Lutheran church, but were originally members of the Congrega-
tional church.
Thomas \V. Rawson was reared at home, where he early gained a true
knowledge of the importance and value of labor. He received his prelim-
inary education in the common schools and also attended Iowa College
Academy, at Grinnell, from which he was graduated in the class of 1901.
Immediately after leaving school he entered the Farmers Savings Bank of
Slater as assistant cashier and continued in that position until July, 1910,
when upon tlic death of M. S. lielland, casliicr of the bank, he was selected
to fill the vacancy. In the discharge of his duties he has shown an interest
and ability which are highly pleasing to the officers and stockholders of the
institution.
On the 3d of September, 1902, Mr. Rawson was united in marriage at
Slater to Miss Belle Nelson, a daughter of Hon. Oley Nelson, a record of
whom appears elsewhere in this work. One child. Homer Arnold, has come
to bless this union.
Mr. Rawson has possessed every desirable advantage of education and
training for the banking business that could be desired and, having made
good use of his opportunities, he has enjoyed the favors of fortune and has
also been accorded the confidence and esteem of the entire community.
Politically he gives his support to the republican party and as a citizen he
extends a willing hand to every worthy movement seeking to promote the
permanent interests of this section.
GEORGE A. KLO\E.
There is in the atmosphere of the west something that calls forth en-
ergy, determination and ambition on the part of the citizens of this sec-
tion of the country. Imbued with this spirit, George A. Klove has made
substantial progress in his business career, and is now occupying the posi-
tion of assistant cashier of the First National Bank of Nevada. He was
born in Decorah, Winneshiek county, Iowa, on the i6th of January, 1867,
and is a son of Edwin and Christina (Howard) Idove, both of whom were
natives of Norway, whence they came to America in their childhood days
with their respective parents and settled near Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 205
father was born at Voss, Norway, on the 19th of October, 1836, and was
a son of Andrew and Gundvor (Ringheim) Klove, who were also natives
of \'oss. In the year 1843, they sailed for the new world with Milwaukee,
Wisconsin, as their destination, and soon afterward located on a farm
about twenty miles southwest of that city, where they remained for a long
period. About 1864, however, they removed westward to Winneshiek
county, Iowa, where the father's death occurred in 1865. The mother sur-
vived him for several years and passed away in 1870. Both were sixty-
nine years of age when called to their final home. Andrew Klove had fol-
lowed farming throughout his entire life and was known as a worthy and
representative citizen of the community in which his last days were passed.
His family numbered thirteen children, all of whom were born in Norway
with the exception of two.
Edwin Klove was only six years of age when the family crossed the
Atlantic, and with his parents he resided until i860, when he went to De-
corah, Iowa, making the trip alone. There he established a general mer-
cantile business in connection with I. A. Ringheim, a cousin. This associa-
tion was maintained for two years, when they disposed of their stock and
Edwin Klove accepted the position of deputy in the office of county treas-
urer. Later he was elected county treasurer and filled the position in a
most acceptable and creditable manner for eight years, proving a most
faithful custodian of the public funds. He was then out of business for
a short time. In 1883, he removed to Nevada, where he has since made
his home, and for ten years acted as clerk in the store of I. A. Ringheim.
following the death of Mr. Ringheim Mr. Klove retired and has since
spent his days in the enjoyment of well earned rest. In the year 1864, he
married Christina Howard, who was born in Voss, Norway, October 31,
1841, and came to this country with her parents about 1844. She was a
daughter of Joseph and Christina Howard, both of whom died in Wiscon-
sin. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Klove were born seven children: George
A., of this review; Janette, the wife of U. S. Alderman of Nevada; Henry,
of Sac City, Iowa ; Edmond Joseph, of Ames, Iowa ; Frederick Howard,
who is located in Livingston, Montana ; Anna Louise, a resident of Minn-
eapolis ; and Mrs. Alice McCall, deceased.
In taking up the personal history of George A. Klove, we present to
our readers the life record of one who is widely and favorably known in
Story county, where he has made his home for more than twenty-seven
years. The first sixteen years of his life were spent in Decorah, Iowa, and
in September, 1883, he came to Nevada, where he has since resided. He
pursued a high school course in Decorah, but after coming to Story county
turned his attention to mercantile pursuits, serving as a clerk until 1896.
In that year he was appointed deputy county treasurer, in which capacity
he served for four years, at the end of which time he was chosen county
treasurer, and by reelection was continued in the office for two terms. He
has been prominent in the public life of the community, and it is well known
206 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
that his aid and influence are ever to be found on the side of progress and
improvement. He was mayor of Nevada for one term, 1903-1904, and
gave to the city a businessHke administration, wherein tlie interests of the
city were greatly promoted. He became connected with the First National
Bank as assistant cashier, and still continues in that position.
In 1895 j\Ir. Klove was united in marriage to Miss Sylvia Thompson,
a native of Nevada, and a daughter of F. D. Thompson. They now have
two children : Herman Thompson and Sumner Edwin.
In Iiis i)olitical life J\lr. Klove has been a lifelong republican, unfalter-
ing in his allegiance to the principles of the party. He has served as a
member of the city council and also as secretary of the school board, filling
the former position from April, 1906 until April, 1909, while in the latter
office he served for four years. He holds membership in the Lutheran
church and for many years has served on its council. He also belongs to
the Knights of Pythias fraternity, the Masonic lodge and the Modern
Woodmen camp. The greater part of his life has been passed in Story
county, and that his record has ever been a most honorable one is indi-
cated in the fact that his stanchest friends are those who have known him
from his boyhood to the present time. Few men are more prominent or
more widely known in the enterprising city of Nevada, and he is recog-
nized by all as a man of unbending integrity, unabating energj- and in-
clustrv that never flags.
HON. JOSEPH A. FITCHPATRICK.
No history of Nevada and Story county would be complete without ex-
tended reference to Hon. Joseph A. Fitchpatrick, who is distinctively a
man of affairs and one who has wielded a wide influence. He is now closely
associated with the public life of the community as a member of the bar.
as president of the First National Bank of Nevada and as representative
of his district in the state senate. He belongs to one of the old families of
this part of Iowa and is a native son of Washington county, \'irginia. born
October 17, 1840. His parents were William H. and Sarah \'. (Hagy)
Fitchpatrick, who were al-so natives of W'ashington county, born in 1814
and 181 5, respectively. A removal to the west was made in 1842. at which
time the family home was established in Clinton county. Indiana, where
they resided until 1854. In that \ear they became residents of Boone.
Iowa, and in 1857 the family came to .Story county, where they made their
home for many years. The parents spent their last days in .Ames, where
the mother died in 1895 and the father in 1897. In their f.unijy were eight
children of whom five arc yet living.
Hon. J. A. I-'itchpatrick, the eldest, devoted his lime between the work
of the farm and the acquirement of an education in the public schoo'
J. A. FITCH I'AIKKK
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 209
through the period of his youth, and in early manhood he took up the pro-
fession of teaching, which he followed through the winter seasons. The
welfare and preservation of his country became a paramount interest in his
life at the time of the outbreak of the Civil war and in response to Presi-
dent Lincoln's first call for troops he offered his services to the government,
enlisting in May, 1861, under command of Captain (afterward Colonel)
Scott, of Company E, Third Regiment of Iowa \'olunteer Infantry. He
continued with this, command until after the battle of Atlanta, having in
the meantime reenlisted, and then the Third Iowa Regiment was consoli-
dated with the Second Regiment and his command became Company A of
that organization. He remained with his regiment until the close of the
war and was on active duty from the start. During the summer, fall and
winter of 1861 he was largely engaged in skirmish duty throughout Mis-
souri. He participated in the battle of Shiloh on the 6th and 7th of April,
1862, his regiment doing volunteer service there, holding its line all day and
repelling every attack of the enemy. Because of a flank movement on the
part of the Confederates the Third Iowa was compelled to fall back and in
so doing about six o'clock in the evening Mr. Fitchpatrick, with a few
others of the regiment including Major Stone, the commanding officer, fell
in with the Iowa Brigade which a few moments afterward surrendered.
Through the succeeding ten weeks Mr. Fitchpatrick was held as a prisoner
of war at Tuscaloosa, Alabama, after which all of the prisoners were pa-
roled but were not allowed to join their commands until exchanged several
months later, being stationed during the intervening period in St. Louis,
Missouri. As soon as possible, however, Air. Fitchpatrick rejoined his regi-
ment at Moscow, Tennessee, in January, 1863. and afterward participated
in the siege of Mcksburg. The troops then proceeded to Jackson, Missis-
sippi, and he took part in the unfortunate and ill-timed assault on the
enemy's works at that place on the 12th of July, 1863, on which occasion
more than half of those engaged were either killed or wounded. He also
participated in the Meridian campaign under Sherman in February, 1864,
and in the Atlanta campaign, including the battles of Atlanta on the 21st
and 22d of July, 1864. On the second day of the engagement, after five
hours of stubborn fighting, Mr. Fitchpatrick and several of his comrades
were surrounded and captured, while the only commissioned officer in the
regiment at that time was killed. This was on the first day of the battle.
On the second day the regiment drew up in I^attle line without a single
officer to command and did some of the most effective fighting of its whole
term of service, almost literally fighting itself out of existence on that occa- •
sion. Mr. Fitchpatrick with the others who had been made prisoners of
war were taken to Andersonville, where they suffered greatly, their treat-
ment being of the most inhuman character. Three months were spent in
that loathsome prison pen, after which Mr. Fitchpatrick was transferred
to Florence. South Carolina, where the treatment was no better. On the
1st of -March following, however, he was exchanged at \\'ilmington. North
■2\o HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Carolina, and his sulierings were indicated by the tact that he had lost
greatly in weight, having been reduced almost to a skeleton ere his release.
He was sent to Annapolis. Maryland, and was granted a furlough which he
spent at home. On the expiration of his leave of absence he rejoined his
regiment in Washington, D. C, in May, 1865, and with his command went
soon afterward to Louisville. Kentucky, where he was mustered out of
service in July. He had been with the Union army for four years and two
months, during which time he was never ill or absent from duty with the
exception of the period of his prison experience and his furlough home.
He stood frequently upon the tiring line and again upon the lonely picket
line, but no matter what the duty entrusted to him it was faithfully i)cr-
formed.
In July, 1865, Mr. l-"ilchpalrick reached his old home in Story county
and throughout all the intervening years to the present he has figured prom-
inentlv in the public life of the community and in the advancement of its
business interests. Soon after his return from the war he was elected clerk
of the district court, capably filling the office for a period of eleven years,
or until January i, 1877. He then turned his attention to the loan and ab-
stract business, in which he has since engaged. He was the first one to
make a complete set of abstract books in the county. In 1877 he was ad-
mitted to practice before the Story county court and almost immediately
thereafter formed a law partnership with George W. Dyer. In 1878 he
was licensed to practice before the Iowa supreme court. His partnership
with Mr. Dyer was terminated in 1885 and he afterward remained alone
in practice for a considerable period. In 1898 he entered into partnershi|)
with Edward M. McCall, which relationship still maintains under the firm
.style of Fitchpatrick & McCall. They have a large clientage connecting
them with much of the important litigation held in the courts of the district.
Mr. Fitchpatrick has also invested heavily in real estate and is the owner
of much valuable property in Nevada and Story county. Becoming con-
nected with the First National Bank, he was for a considerable period its
vice president and in 1904 was elected to the presidency, serving as its chief
executive officer throughout the ensuing decade.
On the i6th of August, 1866, Mr. Fitchpatrick was married tu .Mi>>
Hattie V. Pierce, who was born in Onondaga county, New York, in 1843.
a daughter of Lyman and Phoebe (Dean) Pierce. She dieil in September.
1906. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Fitchpatrick were born three children: William
P., of Nevada, who married Ada. J. Ringheim ; Mrs. \'iola E. Everhart. of
Chicago; and Genevieve L.. the wife of Edward M. McCall. who is now
her father's law partner.
Mr. I'itchpatrick and daughters arc members of the Presbyterian church
and the family has long occupied a prominent position in social circles.
Mr. Fitchpatrick holds membership in Lodge No. 99, .A. F. S: A. M., of
Nevada; the chajHcr and Excalibur Commandery, No. i_^. K. T.. at Boone.
Iowa. He likewise belongs to Sani])S(in Lodge. No. jy. K. I'., of which
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 211
he is a charter member, and to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
His political allegiance is given to the republican party and while he is not
a politician in the usually accepted sense of the term, he has yet been
honored with public office and has proven himself capable in the discharge
of his duties. In i8gg he was elected state senator from the district com-
prised of Boone and Story coimties and served until 1904. In 1908 he was
reelected, so that he is the present incumbent in the office. He gives
careful consideration to each question which comes up for settlement and
his spirit of opposition to any measure is the expression of his honest
conviction and of a conscientious effort to do that which is best for the
community. Progress and patriotism might well be termed the keynote to
his character, for those qualities have characterized him in every relation
of life. His enterprising spirit is manifest as well in his official service
as in the conduct of his private business interests, and sound judgment and
keen discrimination have ever been elements in the continuous advancement
which has brought him to his present enviable position.
CHARLES A. WENTWORTH.
While practically living retired, Charles A. VVentworth was for many
years identified with general agricultural pursuits and is still the owner of
a good farm property west of Ames, although he now makes his home in
the city. He was bom in Monson, Piscataquis county, Maine, on the 24th
of February, 1845, ^nd spent the greater part of his youth there. His pa-
rents were Oliver and Janette (Thomas) Wentworth, who always remained
residents of the Pine Tree state and were farming people. Their son
Charles was the second in a family of nine children, eight of whom are now
living and all were together in the summer of 1910 on the old home place
in Maine. A daughter of the family died in infancy.
No event of special importance occurred to vary the routine of farm life
for Charles A. Wentworth in his boyhood and youth. The public schools
afforded him his education and he worked in the fields for his father and
also to some extent for neighboring farmers until seventeen years of age,
when, aroused by the attempt of the south to overthrow the Union, he en-
listed for active duty with the northern army. He was discharged August
I, 1865, after eighteen months' service with Company M of the First Maine
Cavalry, which was assigned to the Army of the Potomac, and was on duty
in the vicinity of Petersburg most of the time. He took part in the en-
gagements at Green Station, Cathaly Run, the Bellfield raid and was on the
skirmish line most of the time. When the war was over and victory
crowned the Union arms, he returned home and continued a resident of
Maine throughout the ensuing year. He then went to Pennsylvania, where
he spent a year and then again returned home, remaining for a few months.
212 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Later he spent a year and a half in Pennsylvania, and on the expiration of
that period went to Alpena, Michigan, where he resided for three years.
In Pennsylvania and in Michigan he was employed in the lumber woods
during the winter months, after which he returned to Maine, where he
again lived for a year.
The fall of 1876 witnessed the arrival of Mr. W'cntworth in Iowa, at
which time he took up his abode in Jones county, living there until the
spring of 1878, when he went to Boone county. In February, 1895, he came
to his present home near the corporation limits of Ames, his farm lying
west of the city. In addition to the home where he now resides, he has one
hunched and twenty-one acres of rich farm land and from the place derives
a substantial income. He is practically living retired, however, leaving the
active work of the farm to others.
On the 2d of March, 1877, in Clinton, Iowa, Mr. VVentworth was mar-
ried to Miss Emma C. Chapin, who was born in Monson, Maine, on the 12th
of October, 1845, and there resided until the spring of 1877. when she came
to Clinton, Iowa. Her parents were Aretus and Mary (Whiting) Chapin,
natives of Monson, Maine, and reared in that state, where they spent their
entire lives. Mr. and Mrs. Wentworth had but one child, Atlee O., who
died at the age of three months.
Mr. Wentworth belongs to the Grand Army of the Republic and is as
true and loyal in matters of citizenship today as he was when he followed
the old flag in defending the Union cause on the battlefields of the south.
His life has been quietly passed, yet at all times his career has been marked
by usefulness and activity in his business aflfairs. Moreover, he has ever
been reliable in his business transactions and his many substantial quali-
ties have won for him recognition as a worthy and representative citizen of
his adopted county.
lOHX OSP.ORX.
Among the residents of Story county who have now passed away, there
were none more highly esteemed and respected than John Osborn, who
was born in Guernsey county, Ohio, on the 2Sth of December, 1846. His
life up to the age of eighteen years was like that of the majority of the
boys of fifty years ago who were reared on the farm. He attended school
when his services were not required at home and enjoyed such diversions
as fell to the lot of the young people oi that period.
,'\t eighteen years of age he cnlistcf! in the Union army and spent eleven
months of his early manhood in the service of his country on the battlefields
of the south. There, as elsewhere throughout his life, he discharged everv
duty assignee! him to the best of his ability. That he was faithful in service,
brave in the face of danger and reliable at all times is fully attested by the
honorable discharge accorded him at the end of his period of enlistment.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 213
In 1865 Mr. Osborn removed with his parents to Shelby county, IIH-
nois. Four years later on the i8th of November, 1869, he was united in
marriag'c to Miss Sarah A. Shell, a native of Shelby county. The lirst year
of their married life the young people continued to make their home in that
county, but at the end of that period they removed to a farm near Green
Castle in Jasper county, this state, and here, with the exception of one year,
when they lived in Madison county, they resided for thirteen years. They
went to Polk county in 1884, where they lived for a time, but later removed
to Mr. Osborn's farm near jNIaxwell. this county. They lived on this place
until ]\Ir. Osborn retired in 1907, after which time they made their home
in Maxwell and there on the 24th of July, 1909, Mr. Osborn passed away.
Three children were born to ]Mr. and Mrs. Osborn, two of whom sur-
vive: Eva L., wife of William Hartung, a farmer in Indian Creek town-
ship ; and Orlando, who owns and lives on the home farm near Maxwell.
Mr. Osborn was always a stanch adherent of the republican party, be-
lieving that its basic principles were best adapted to protect the interests
of the general public and while he never sought political preferment he
served as township trustee and most capably discharged the duties of other
local offices while a resident of Polk county. Mr. Osborn was a Chris-
tian and a communicant of the Methodist Protestant church, in which Mrs.
Osborn also holds membership. He was not a man who sought publicity
or reward for service but he was always ready to respond to the call of his
country or fellowman in time of need, and he will long be remembered in
the community where he lived, for he was held in high esteem by all
who knew him.
WALTER L. MORRIS.
\\'alter L. Morris, living on section 34, Franklin township, has been
a resident of Story county since the fall of 1875, arriving here when a youth
of eleven years. He was born in ]\Iorrison, Illinois, on the 23d of May,
1864, his parents being Willard and Adaline (Leonard) Morris. He was
the eldest son and fourth child in a family of seven children and spent
the first eleven years of his life in the place of his nativity, after which
he came with his parents to Story in the fall of 1875. They took up their
abode in Washington township, two and a half miles west of Ames, and
there lived for two years, after which they removed to Franklin town-
ship, where W'alter L. Morris has since made his home.
He continued with his parents until his marriage and in the public
schools of Illinois and of Iowa he pursued his education, while his train-
ing in farm work was received under the direction of his father. There
were few leisure hours in his boyhood and yet at times he had opportunity
to enjoy the sports which engaged the attention of all healthy youths.
214 HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY
In early manhood he engaged in farming on rented land with his father,
who with his three sons rented and cultivated eight hundred acres of land
for a number of years. The father owned and rented farm property. In
1889 Walter L. Morris purchased a part of his present farm and became
owner of the remainder in 1902. Me now has two hundred and forty
acres of land lying on sections 27 and 34. his home standing on the latter
section. The farm has been well improved by Mr. Morris and in its midst
stands a comfortable modern residence, while other commodious and sub-
stantial buildings shelter grain, stock and farm machinery. The place is
known as the Fairview farm and its name is well deserved. Everything
about the place is kept in excellent condition and indicates the careful su-
pervision and practical methods of a progressive owner, lie raises the
cereals best adapted to soil anil climate and has also met with success in
the breeding and raising of shorthorn cattle and Duroc Jersey hogs, having
upon his place twenty head of registered shorthorns at the present time,
while all of his hogs have been eligible to registry for the past fifteen years.
He has been engaged in the breeding of shorthorns since 1898 and in addi-
tion to his herd he feeds from sixty to ninety head of cattle. In addition to
his home property he owns a house and lot in Boone and his wife is the
owner of residence property in Ames. He is likewise a stockholder in
the Story County Fair Association and he is a charter member of the
Breeders Association of Story county, of wliicli he served as treasurer for
a number of years.
On the 28th of November, 1895, Mr. -Morris was united in marriage to
Miss Gertrude Rutheford. who was born in Ontario. Canada. June 26,
1863, and was brought to Story county in 1868 by her parents. Edward and
Maria (Eckels) Rutheford, the former a native of New York and the latter
of Ireland. Both were residents of Story county at the time of death, the
father passing away April 4, 1875. when forty-six years of age. while the
mother died January 27, 1896. at the age of sixty-seven years. He was a
carpenter contractor and architect and practiced the profession of archi-
tecture in Xew York city for about ten years. Their family numbered si;:
children, including Mrs. Morris, who by her marriage has become the
mother of one .son. Edward Leonard, born September 24. i89ri. Mr. and
Mrs. Morris are also rearing an adopted daughter. Eleanor Morris, born
February 22. 1900. Their son at the age of twelve years was graduated
from the rural schools with the first class that was graduated. He alway.;
displayed special aptitude in his studies and he is now successfully en-
gaged in the breeding of Shetland ponies although but fourteen years of
age.
Mr. Morris has always been a warm frienil of the cause of education
and was president of the township school board and one of the school di-
rectors of his district for a number of years. He also filled the office nf
assessor of Franklin township for twelve years and discharged his duties
with promptness and ability during the entire period of his incumbency
HISTORY OP STORY COUNTY 215
in office. For ten years he has filled the office of justice of the peace, in
which connection his decisions are strictly fair and impartial. He has like-
wise served as township trustee for a number of years and is ever loyal
and faithful to the confidence and trust reposed in him. His political alle-
giance has always been given to the republican party and fraternally he
is connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Knights of
Pythias and the Modern Woodmen of America, while his religious faith is
indicated in his membership in the Congregational church of Ames. Dur-
ing thirty-si.x years' residence in Story county he has formed a wide ac-
quaintance among the citizens of this part of the state and he is held in
high esteem by those who have long known him as well as by his later
acquaintances. In manner he is genial and social and wherever he goes
wins the high regard of those with whom he is brought in contact.
PETER S. GRIFFITH.
Among the successful farmers and extensive landowners of Union
township is Peter S. Griffith, who was born in McDonough county, Illinois,
on the 9th of March, 1856, his parents being John M. and Biddy (Rice)
Griffith. The father was a native of Virginia and the mother of Ireland,
having come to America as a child with her parents, who settled in High-
land county, Ohio. After he had reached manhood John M. Griffith, in
company w'ith his brother, w'ent to Highland county and there he met and
married the mother of our subject. The first ten years of their married life
the young people spent in Ohio and then removed to McDonough county,
Illinois, where they continued to live until 1867, when they again set their
faces westward, Iowa being their destination. They first settled in Polk
county, where they remained but a few months and then bought a farm in
Story county, which adjoins their son's homestead on the east and which he
now owns, there spending the remainder of their lives. The father passed
away on the 19th of November, 1890, but the mother survived until the
24th of December, 1904. Mr. Griffith was a very successful man and owned
between six and seven hundred acres of land at the time of his demise.
They were both life-long members of the Methodist Episcopal church, in
which they were always active workers.
Peter Griffith's early years differed but in detail from those of many
farmer lads. He lived at home and attended the district school, assisted
in the work of the farm and iiidulged in such recreations as appeal to young
people. When old enough to lay aside his text-books, he cooperated with
his father in the culitvation of the farm, and at length purchased eighty
acres of his own land, upon which in 1892 he took up his residence and has
since continued to live. After his father's death he bought the old home-
stead, containing one hundred and sixtv acres, and he also owns one bun-
216 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
dred and twenty acres on section 27, inside of the corporate limits of Cam-
bridge, making the aggregate of his real-estate holdings amount to three
hundred and sixty acres. His home farm is one of the best in the town-
ship, the (ields are well tilled, the improvements modern and kept in re-
pair and the stock of a good breed and well cared for. In fact everything
about the place bespeaks thrift, capable management and careful attention
to details.
In 1882 Mr. Griffith established a home of his own by his marriage to
Miss Carrie C. Chamberlain, a native of Union township and a daughter of
Oliver Chamberlain, who came to Story county from Ohio about 1856, be-
ing one of the pioneers of Union township. He is now deceased. Three
children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Griffith: Genevieve, Carrie B. and
John M.
Mr. Griffith is identified with the Masonic fraternity, holding member-
ship in Tabernacle Lodge, Xo. 452, A. F. & A. M., while he and his wife
belong to the Order of the Eastern Star. While he has never actively par-
ticipated in politics he casts a vote at all elections for the republican can-
didates, as he considers the fundamental principles of that party are best
a(la])ted to serve the majority. He has been very successful as a farmer,
which can undoubtedly be largely attributed to his careful management, dis-
cretion and progressive ideas and is considered to be one of the substantial
citizens of Union township, where during his long residence he has made
many friends, whose respect and esteem he has retained.
STEPHEN PARKER O'BRIEN.
The name of Stephen Parker O'Brien deserves to be placed high on
the roll of Story county's honored citizens inasmuch as he is a veteran of
the Mexican war and of the Civil war and has ever been a loyal and pro-
gressive resident of Iowa, cooperating in all measures and movements cal-
culated to benefit his home commimity or the state. In official ser\-ice and
in ])rivate life his course has ever commended him to the confidence and
respect of his fellowmen as he is totlay one of the most honored as well
as one of the most venerable citizens of Story county.
Mr. O'Brien was born in Union townshi]). Brown county, Ohio, De-
cember 24, 1825, a son of Enoch and Naomi ( Parker) 0'P>rien. The
father was probably born in Adams county, Ohio, in 1800, and the mother's
birth occurred in \'irginia. October 22, 1798. In the winter sea.sons Enoch
O'Brien followed the profession of scliool teaching and in the summer
months worked at the stone-cutter's trade. He was married in the Buck-
eye state to Naomi Parker, who had removed with her parents from \'ir-
ginia. In October, 1831. Enoch and Naomi (Parker) O'Brien tcxjk their
family to Hancock county, Indiana, where his remaining days were passed.
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MR. AND MRS. S. P. O'BRIEN'
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 219
his death there occurring in 1835. His widow long survived him, passing
away in Indiana at tlie age of seventy-eiglit years. He was of Scotch-Irish
hneage, while the Parkers were of one of the old families of Virginia.
Five children were born to Enoch and Naomi O'Brien : George W., who
was born February 24, 1823, and now resides at Corwith, Hancock county,
Iowa; Stephen P., of this review; Nancy, the deceased wife of Benjamin
Deal; Sarah, the deceased wife of Elmoth Jeffery ; and Salina, the wife
of Eli Deal, a brother of Benjamin.
Following the death of his father Stephen P. O'Brien, when sixteen
years of age, removed with his mother to Clay county, Indiana, and there
resided until after his marriage, when he came to Iowa. He reached the
present site of the town of Ames on the 27th of October, 1852, and secured
a squatter's claim on the southeast quarter of section 35, Franklin town-
ship. He was in Indiana for eight years after the Civil war but always
regarded this place as his home. In his early manhood he was busily em-
ployed at the work of the farm on his mother's behalf until his patriotic
spirit was aroused by the outbreak of the Mexican war and he enlisted
for active service on the 15th of June, 1846, as. a member of Company C,
Second Indiana Infantry, under Captain John Osborne. He was on active
duty under General Taylor in the battle of Buena Vista and served for
one year, after which he was honorably discharged at New Orleans and
arrived home on the 4th of July, 1847. He afterward engaged in teaching
school for nearly two years.
Mr. O'Brien made arrangements for having a home of his own by his
marriage on the 19th of July, 1849, to Sarah E. Hiestand, who was born
in Harrison county, Indiana, June 24, 1831. They were married in Clay
county, that state, after which Mr. O'Brien engaged in farming and teach-
ing school in Indiana until his removal to Iowa in 1852. Here he again
gave his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits until the tocsin
of war again called him to the scene of battle. When differences over the
slavery question brought on hostilities between the north and the south he
enlisted at Ames as a member of Company A, Twenty-third Iowa Volun-
teer Infantry, under Captain L. R. Houston, on the 4th of August, 1862.
He was elected first sergeant of the company, afterward promoted to sec-
ond lieutenant and later became first lieutenant of the same company, with
which rank he was honorably discharged at Matagorda island, Texas, on
the nth of April, 1864. He was with the Army of the Mississippi and
participated in the battles of Fort Gibson, Raymond, Jackson, Black River
and the siege of Vicksburg. At Black River on the 17th of May, 1863, he
was wounded through the left arm and also sustained a slight scalp wound,
together with a slight wound in the stomach. He took part in the charge
at Milliken's Bend on the 7th of June, 1863, and during the balance of
the time was in the ditches in the rear of Vicksburg, where he contracted
'rheumatism that, growing worse with the passing years, now renders his
lower limbs wholly helpless. His mind, however, is as clear and bright as
220 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
a man in the prime of life and, going about in a wlieel cliair. lie meets with
his old friends and discusses the questions and issues of the day, keeping
in closer touch with the tilings of the present than many of much younger
age.
Mr. O'Brien has always been deeply, actively and helpfully interested
in public aftairs and questions relative to the progress and improvement of
his community. He was present at the organization and first election of
Story county but lacked a few days of being old enough to vote. He was
appointed by County Judge E. C. Evans as the first assessor of Story
county and filled the position for a year. .At the ne.xt election he was
chosen school fund commissioner of the county and also served as con-
stable for two terms, while for eight terms, or sixteen years, he filled the
office of justice of the peace of Ames. His decisions were strictly fair
and impartial, being based upon comprehensive knowledge of the law and
the correct application of its principles. In Alay, 1864, he was admitteil
to the bar under District Judge J. C. McFarland, but has practiced only
in the justice courts. His political support was originally given to the whig
party until the organization of the republican party, when he supported
John C. Fremont for the presidency and has since been a stalwart advo-
cate of that party's principles. His first presidential vote was given Zach-
arj' Taylor, on which occasion he walked forty miles in order to exercise
his right of franchise. That was a proud day in his life as it is to most
young men casting their first vote. Mr. O'Brien not only served as jus-
tice of the peace but has also been notary public and pension attorney at
.Vines for many years, in which connection he has secured more than one
hundred pensions for old soldiers. He has likewise conducted a real-estate
and insurance office and has led a busy and useful life.
In 1864 Mr. O'Brien was called upon to mourn the loss of his first
wife, who died on the 24th of May of that year. They were the parents
of si.x children; Mary Ellen, now the wife of W. J. Zenor, of Ames;
Samuel Webster, of JefTerson, Iowa ; Mrs. Naomi Ann Phillips, who is
living in Lewiston, Montana; Nancy Alice, the wife of J, P. Jackson, of
Sullivan county, Indiana; George \\'., of .Ames; and \'iola L.. who became
the wife of Charles H. Giilden and after his death married Fred Thomas,
of Des Moines.
Twenty years after the death of his first wife Mr. O'l'.ricn was mar-
ried on the 24th of December, 1884, to Mrs. Sarah K. Iliestand, the
widow of H. J. Hiestand and a daughter of Judge E. C. Evans. Mr.
riiestand was a brother of Mr. O'Brien's first wife and was one of the
recruits that served under Mr. O'Brien in Company A, Twenty-third Iowa
Infantry, during the Civil war. He died in the service of wounds re-
ceived at Port Gibson. Mrs. O'Brien was born in Blcnimington, McLean
county, Illinois. January 23, 1837, and with her parents came to Story
county in October, 1852, since which time she has lived in this county.
Her parents were Ju<Igc Evan C. and Elizabeth D. ( Blankenship^ Evans.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 221
The mother was a native of \'irginia and was reared in Ohio. Her father
was bom near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and there resided until twenty-
three years of age. Both went to Blooming-ton, Illinois, with their re-
spective parents and were married soon after becoming acquainted there.
They resided in Story county from 1852 until 1883 and then went to South
Dakota to live with a daughter. Judge Evans owned a homestead in thati
state. He died, however, in Story county but his wife passed away in
South Dakota. He was for nine years county judge of Story county and
made an excellent record on the bench as a fair and impartial jurist and
one thoroughly conversant with the law. In the early days of his resi-
dence in Iowa he entered land here and at different times bought and sold
several farms. His family numbered nine children of whom Mrs. O'Brien
is the eldest. Her brother, William C. Evans, who enlisted in August,
1863, in the Ninth Iowa Cavalry, was killed in service. By her first mar-
riage ]\Irs. O'Brien had three children: Samuel E. ; Alonzo B.; and Leo-
nora, now the widow of Albert Park.
Mr. O'Brien belongs to the First Church of Christ of Ames, of which
he is a charter member. He is also a charter member of Ames Lodge
No. 309, I. O. O. F., and of Ellsworth Post, G. A. R. He is the only
Mexican war veteran in this county and so far as is known is the only one
living in Iowa. His life indeed covers a notable period in the history of
the country. He has witnessed the introduction of telegraph and telephone.
There was scarcely a railroad in the country at the time of his arrival here
but he has lived to see this wide domain crossed and recrossed by lines
that connect the Atlantic with the Pacific. He came to Story coimty when
it was largely wild and unsettled, when its prairies were covered with their
native grasses and its streams were unbridged. Here he has lived for
fifty-nine years watching a notable transformation and at all times bearing
his part in the work of general progress.
HERBERT PEASE, M. D.
Less than seven years ago Dr. Herbert Pease began practice at Slater
and he has applied himself with such capability and diligence that today his
name is well known throughout this section of the state. He was born
near Sandwich. Illinois, November 10, 1871, son of George W., and Adri-
anna (Stockholm) Pease. The father was born in Kendall county, Illinois,
[uly 23, 1841, and the mother in the village of Fishkill, Dutchess county,
New York, November 16, 1841. For some years after his marriage the
father lived on a farm in La Salle county, Illinois, coming in 1881 to Col-
lins township, Story county, Iowa, where he purchased eighty acres of land
and established himself as one of the prosperous farmers of the county.
He has lived retired at Collins since 1909.
222 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Herbert Pease came with liis parents to Story county when ten years
of age and acquired his preliminary education in the public schools, later
attending the Collins high school. Drake University and the State Normal
College at Cedar Falls, Iowa. In 1890 he began teaching and continued
in that vocation for ten years, during the last three years of which he
served as principal of the Collins schools. He gained a reputation as one
of the most accomplished teachers in the county. Having decided to devote
his attention to medicine he matriculated in the medical department of the
State University in the fall of 1900, and while taking the regular course of
instruction spent his vacations reading under Dr. N. W. Knepper, of Col-
lins. In 1904 he was graduated from the university with the degree of
M. D. and has since practiced at Slater, being from the start unusually
successful. He keeps thoroughly in touch w-ith the latest discoveries and
advances in medicine, as is indicated by his large and well selected library
and also by post-graduate work at the Chicago Polyclinic in 1907 and the
Philadelphia Polyclinic in 1909. He is a valued member of the Story
County Medical Society and of the Iowa State Medical Society and the
American Medical Association.
On the i"th of January, 1906, Dr. Pease was united in marriage to Miss
Lois Felshaw, a daughter of John S. Felshaw, a well known attorney of
Collins, and to this union two children have been born: Adrianna and
Evelyn. Dr. Pease fraternally is identified with Slater Camp, No. 7971.
M. VV. A., and socially is one of the leaders in the community. He early
acquired habits of close study and careful observation, which he has applied
in his professional career, being on this account more than ordinarily suc-
cessful. A man of good judgment, high ideals, force and determination
of character, he is held in great esteem by his fellowmen and meets in his
chosen calling with the rewards which arc due to wisely directed effort.
CIIAKI.FS S. GAMliLI-:.
One of the best known men in agricultural circles in Story coimty is
Charles S. Gamble, of Indian Creek townshiji. wlio was born in this county
on the 26th of September, 1872, a son of John D. anfl Elizabeth (Mullen)
Gamble. His parents came to Iowa from Indiana in 1856, locating on the
farm where they continued to reside until their death?. The fatiier was
born in Tennessee on tlic 7th of May, 1830. but when he was seven years
of age his family removed to Indiana, where he met and married Elizabeth
Mullen, who was a native of Indiana, Ixirn in that state on the 8th of June.
1835. In 1856 they came to Iowa and settled in Story county, whore Mr.
Gamble entered from the government a portion of the farm now occu])ied
bv his son. William Marion G.Tmblc. U])on this worthy couple devolved
all the hardships and privations of pioneer life. The ])rairic hai! to be
HISTORY OF 'STORY COUNTY 223
broken, tlie forests clearetl and roads made. Modern conveniences and
machinery wliich are available to the residents of the country today were
then unknown, the work of the farmer and his wife at that time being lit-
tle more than drudgery. But despite the backsets and discouragements,
drouths and wet seasons, John Gamble never faltered and at the time of his
death was accounted one of the men of affluence in the community where
he lived. He had added to his holdings piece by piece until at that time
he was the owner of si.x hundred acres of well tilled and valuable farm
land, every acre of which he had acquired by thrift, an unflinching pur-
pose and indomitable energy. That he was ever highly esteemed and re-
spected in the community where he lived for nearly forty years is indicated
by his large circle of friends. He was a stanch democrat and the esteem
in which he was held by his party is attested by his election to various
township offices, in all of which he served to the general satisfaction of the
community. Both he and his wife were members of the Presbyterian
church. Mr. Gamble passed away on the 27th of June, 1893, ^^ the age
of sixty-three years, but Mrs. Gamble lived until the 6th of January, 1906.
Charles S. Gamble was reared at home, acquiring his education in the
common schools and assisting his father on the farm. ITis time waS pretty
equally divided between the tasks of the school- room, work of the farm and
such sports and amusements as are usually indulged in by young people.
His life has never been remarkable in any way, in fact it has been very
similar to those of other energetic, ambitious young men who have made
the best of every opportunity afforded them of becoming good, substan-
tial citizens. After his father's death Mr. Gamble cooperated with his
brother 'William in the management of the farm. This partnership con-
tinued until November, 1902, when they divided the property, William re-
maining on the old home farm and Charles S. taking up his residence on
his present farm, where he has ever since lived. His farm embraces two
hundred and fifty-five acres of well tilled and valuable land and is con-
sidered to be one of the best farms in Story county.
Mr. Gamble makes a specialty of feeding cattle, preparing from six to
eight carloads for the market each year. He is now feeding one hundred
and twenty head. He also feeds six or seven carloads of hogs every year.
On the 4th of June, 1902, Mr. Gamble was married to Miss Maud
Sutherland, a daughter of James W. and Adelaide (Bailey) Sutherland,
residents of Baraboo, Wisconsin. Mrs. Gamble completed her education
in the high school of Baraboo and after graduation taught for two terms
prior to her marriage. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs.
Gamble, Ruth G., Elizabeth L., and James Derrett.
Mr. Gamble is a democrat and although he does not take an active part
in politics, each election sees him discharge his responsibility as a citizen
by the casting of a ballot in support ot the candidates of his party. He is
a member of Social Lodge, No. 463, I. O. O. F., and also of the Yeomen
of America. The family attend the Presbyterian church, of which the pa-
221 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
rents are members. Mr. Gamble is accounted one of the substantial and
enterprising citizens of which his township has cause to be proud. Both
he and his wife have hosts of friends and their home is one of the social
centers of the community.
O. M. GROVE.
O. M. Grove is numbered among the native sons of Story county, his
birth having occurred on the I2th of October, 1871, about a mile south of
Roland. He is now living in lliat town, with the mercantile interests of
whicli he was formerly closely associated, while at the present writing he is
serving as cashier of the Farmers Savings Bank. He is a son of M. C.
and Anna (Sheldahl) Grove. The father, who was born in Voss, Nor-
wav, in 1830, died May 22, 1903, in Roland, and the mother, a native of
Etne. Norway, is still living in Roland. She came to the United States
with licr parents, Rasmus and Ingebord Sheldahl. both natives of Norway,
when a little maiden of five years, the family living in Illinois until 1856,
when a removal w^as made to Story county, where Mrs. Grove has since re-
sided, having now for fifty-five years made her home in central Iowa.
She is therefore familiar with its development and progress and has been
an interested witness of what has been accomplished as the years have
passed by. Her husband came direct to Story county in 185S and spent
his remaining days here, successfully following the occupation of farming
until 1896, when he retired and took up his abode in Roland. Unto this
worthy and highly respected couple were born six children: ]\Iartin X..
who is living in Roland; Lorenda, living at home with her mother; O.scar
M., of this review; Edward R.. who occuijies the old homestead south of
the town; Mary, the wife of K. P. Teig, of Howard township, living
about three miles southeast of Roland; and Emma, who for the ])ast three
years has engaged in teaching school at Collins.
Oscar M, Grove has been a lifelong resident of this county and in his
youthful days devoted his time to the work of the schoolroom, the jileas-
ures of the playground and the duties assigned to him by parental author-
ity. In 1889, when a young man of about eighteen years, he left the farm
and turned his attention to commercial pursuits, securing a clerkship in a
hardware store in Roland. He was thus employed for eight years, during
which time he thoroughly mastered the business and on the expiration of
that period he purchased an interest in the store, becoming a partner in
1897. The enterprise was then conducted under the firm style of Grove
Brothers, his ])artncr lieing Martin N. Grove. For seven years the busi-
ness was continued, and in the spring of 1904 they sold their hardware
stock and have continued to deal in agricultural implements since that
time under the same name, the store being managed by Martin N. Grove.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 225
On the 1st of December, 1905, O. IM. Grove entered the Farmers Savings
Bank of Roland and a month later was elected cashier, which position he
has since tilled, his business ability and enterprising spirit contributing
much to the success of the institution. He has also been one of the bank
directors since 1902 and has been the owner of real estate interests in this
county and also in northern Iowa, near Forest City.
On the 7th of July, 1905, Mr. Grove was married to Miss Malinda
Eggland, who was born in Milford township in August, 1865, and is a
daughter of Ingebrit and Julia Eggland, both of whom were born in the
land of the midnight sun. They were married, however, in the United
States and are now residents of Roland.
}tlr. and Mrs. Grove are well known in Roland, occupying a prominent
position in the social circles of the city, and the hospitality of the best homes
is cordially extended them. Mr. Grove belongs to Kohinoor Lodge, No.
576, A. F. & A. M., of Story City, and has been a member of Trinity
Lutheran church of Roland since its organization. In business he is re-
sourceful and enterprising, readily recognizes opportunity and utilizes it.
His success has been won through earnest, persistent effort, intelligently
directed, and he stands today among the successful and progressive resi-
dents of Roland, his labors, contributing to public progress as well as to
individual prosperity.
J. CLIFFORD ROSS, M. D.
Starting in his profession under highly favorable circumstances, Dr.
J. Clifford Ross, now of Ogden, Iowa, has entered upon a career that gives
promise of a brilliant future. He is a native of Iowa, born March 4, 1885,
and is a son of Frank A. and Ella (Johnson) Ross. His grandfather Ross
was probably a native of Indiana, and came to Story county, Iowa, about
1855, locating in Ontario. There Frank A. Ross was reared and educated.
Upon reaching manhood he entered the insurance business, with which he
has ever since been identified, his territory being principally in northwestern
Iowa. He is known as one of the prominent insurance men of the state
and has made his home in Des Moines for the past fifteen years. His wii'e
is a valued member of the Methodist church and is a lady of many excel-
lent qualities of mind and heart.
J. Clifford Ross received his preliminary education in the public schools
and continued his studies in the East Des Moines high school and the
Drake University. In 1904 he matriculated in the medical department of
Drake University, where he continued for two years, and then entered the
St. Louis College of Physicians and Surgeons, from which he was grad-
uated with a degree of M. D. On account of his high standing in his
class he was given opportunity of interneship in Jefferson Hospital, St.
2-2C) HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Louis, and was connected with that institution for one year. In July, 1910,
he began practice at Slater, where he siiowed an ability as a physician and
surgeon which attracted a steadily growing patronage. Recently, however,
he removed to Ogden, Boone county, Iowa.
On the 2ist of September, 1910, Dr. Ross was united in marriage to
Miss Edna Hendry, a daughter of J. G. Hendry, a well known banker of
Bridgewater, Iowa. In addition to his professional societies Dr. Ross is
prominently identified with the Masonic order, holding membership in
Home Lodge, No. 370, A. F. & A. M.; Des Moines Consistory, No. 3,
A. A. S. R. ; and Za-ga-zig Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S., all of Des Moines.
He is also identified with Des Moines Lodge, No. 98, B. P. O. E. He is
not affiliated with any religious denomination, but his wife holds member-
ship in the Methodist church. Politically he gives his support to individ-
uals rather than to party and therefore belongs to that growing class of
citizens recognized as independent. Having made thorough preparation
for the practice of his profession. Dr. Ross has met with marked success
from the very start and he now enjoys the confidence of all who know him.
Being gifted with a pleasing address he readily makes friends and is recog-
nized as a valuable citizen not only on account of his ability in the healing
art but also on account of the interest which he takes in the general wel-
fare of the community.
WILLIAM K. WOOD.
One of tlie first pioneers of Story county, now living, was William K.
Wood, who has resided in this ccninty continuously for fifty-nine years.
He was born in Logan county, Ohio, on the 19th of .\pril, 1823. and is a
son of John G. and Anna (Kennison^l Wood. The father was a native of
Kentucky and the mother of Virginia. Inn they were both living in Ohio
at the time of their marriage and continued to live there for some vears
after. During the boyhood of our subject, however, they removed to
Kosciusko county, Indiana, where Mrs. Wood died in 1844. About ten
years thereafter John G. Wood went to Iowa, locating in Story countv,
where he was living at the time of his demise on the 27th of January,
1870, having arrived at the venerable age of seventy-eight years. At the
age of twenty he entered the service of his country being stationed on the
northern frontier during our second war with Great Britain in 1812. He
was a very religious man and for many years was a communicant of the
Baptist church. The paternal grandfather of William K. Wood was a
native of England.
Mr. Wood was reared at home, obtaining his education in the brief se.s-
sions of the district school which was held in a log schoolhousc, which, in
common with those of the day, was but inadequately lighted by means of
Wll.LIA-M K. Will ID
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 229
the tiny panes in the small wiiulows and the ventilation ami heating were
equality poor, the scholars sitting near the fireplace suffering from the in-
tense heat and those near the windows shivering with the cold.
On the 17th of October. 1847, Air. Wood was united in marriage to
Aliss Melinda Corey and two years later he came west, settling in Corey
Grove, Polk county, Iowa, on the 22d of June, 1849. They continued to
live there for eighteen months and in the spring of 1851 removed to Story
county, locating on the farm where Air. Wood still lives. It is situated on
the northeast quarter of section 16, Indian Creek township, and was orig-
inally school land. When he first settled here all grain had to be hauled
to Oskaloosa, that being the nearest milling point, and it required two
weeks to make the trip, owing to the distance and the poor roads, which
in many instances were little more than wagon tracks across the prairie.
Such conditions as these could not exist long, however, in a community
where such enterprising men as Mr. Wood resided, and very shortly he
and his cousin, Christopher Wood, together with Nathan Webb erected
a steam mill, adapted to both grist and saw mill purposes, just north of
Iowa Center. This was the first steam mill built in Story county and all
of the lumber and machinery had to be hauled in wagons from Keokuk.
It was of great assistance to the settlers, however, and did much to simplify
living conditions being in operation for many years. Mr. Wood has ever
been a progressive man, always ready to aid every movement which would
in any way tend to better conditions in the community and such men always
succeed, and he has not been the exception. At one time he owned thir-
teen hundred acres of land, which he has now divided among his children,
every acre of which was acquired through his thrift, tireless energy and
firm determination to win. Work was very scarce in Iowa in the early
days and wages very poor. He arrived here with a sick wife and five
dollars in money, but undaunted by conditions and ever hopeful he cheer-
fully walked eight miles to obtain two days' work and at another time he
went nine miles for three days' work, for which he received eight bushels
of wheat, which provided them with their bread that year.
Mrs. Wood died on the 29th of March, 1862. There were three chil-
dren by this marriage but Cory died in 1863. Those living are Curtis A.
and James H., two of the most prominent and successful live-stock com-
mission merchants in Chicago. Mr. Wood was again married, his second
union being with Miss Louisa Ingersoll, a native of Pennsylvania and a
daughter of David Ingersoll. One child was born of this union, Carrie,
the wife of Edwin Pizer, of St. James, Minnesota. Mrs. Wood passed
away on the 3d of February, 1870, and on the 8th of the following Decem-
ber Mr. Wood married Mrs. Julia (Addis) liull, a native of Cincinnati,
Ohio. They had one daughter, Oueen, who is now the wife of E. P. Sum-
mers, of Oregon City, Oregon. On the 8th of May, 1874, Mrs. Wood died
and later Mr. Wood married his fourth and present wife, formerly Mrs.
Sarah Davis, a daughter of John M. Griffith, who came to Story county
230 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
from McDonougli county, Illinois, in 1868. Mrs. Wood was born and
reared in liigiiland county. Ohio, and by her first marriage had one child.
Ida B., the wife of Dr. Frank Thompson, of Cambridge, this county.
Mr. Wood's ix)litical allegiance has always been given to the republican
party. He voted at the first election held in Story county, the ])olling place
being McDaniel's shanty, which stood on the east side of Indian creek. In
the fall of 1868 he was elected to rejjresent his district in the legislature
and was reelected in 1870. He served on several of the most important
committees, discharging his duties with great credit to himself and the
constituency to whom he was indebted for his office. He has always taken
an active part in local politics, serving for many years in the various town-
ship offices. He is identified with the Masonic fraternity through member-
ship in the Nevada Lodge. Both Mr. and Mrs. ^^■ood are members of the
church, he of the Baptist and she of the Methodist Episcopal, but they
worship in ihe Evangelical church in Iowa Center.
Owing to his long residence in the county and his great service in the
upbuilding of the community as well as his faithful and at all times capable
discharge of ])ul)lic duties he is one of tlie best known and most highly es-
teemed and resjjccted citizens in this district.
W. J. FREED.
In the eightieth year of his age, W. J. Freed makes his home in Ame-
and for more than fifty-si.x years he has been a resident of Story county,
so that he is today numbered among its honored pioneers. He was long as-
sociated with agricultural interests but some years ago put aside business
cares and is now living retired in the enjoyment of well earned rest. He
was born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, September 19, 1831. His
parents, Samuel and Nancy (Jones) Freed, were both natives of Pennsyl-
vania, where the mother spent her entire life, while the father always lived
in that state with the exception of his last two years, which were passed in
Michigan. He was a blacksmith by trade and an excellent mechanic. He
served a seven years' apprenticeship and then followed the trade through-
out his entire life. His family numbered eleven sons and two daughters, all
of whom reached mature years with the exception of three, while four of
the sons and one daughter are yet living. After losing his first wife the
father married again and had two daughters by that union.
W. J. Freed remained with his parents until eighteen years of age and
during his youthful days worked in his father's blacksmith shop and also at
farm labor for others. In 1849 he left the Keystone state and went to Por-
ter county, Indiana, where he joined his older brother, Paul, residing there
until 1834. He was married in 1852 and then began farming on his own
account, but after two years removed to Story county, Iowa, where he has
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 231
since lived, becoming one of tlie pioneer settlers here. He remained upon
the farm until September, 1892, when he removed to Ames and retired to
private life but sold his farm only five years ago. He was the owner of two
hundred and forty acres of rich and productive land, adjoining the corpora-
tion limits of Ontario, a town four miles west of Ames. On coming to this
county he entered a quarter section from the government but after culti-
vating it for a time sold that propery and purchased the two hundred and
forty acre tract, which was in a better location and had timber upon it.
There he carried on general farming and stock-raising and he also bought
and shipped stock to Chicago for twenty years, that constituting an im-
portant branch of his business. When he began shipping State Center was
the nearest railroad point and he had to drive his stock to that place in order
to make shipments. He was the first stock buyer in the county and in his
business aftairs he always displayed sound judgment, keen discrimination
and unfaltering enterprise.
While Mr. Freed successfully conducted business affairs for many years
he did not concentrate his energies upon individual interests to the exclu-
sion of all else. He has ever been mindful of his duties of citizenship and
in many ways has promoted public progress. On one occasion he spent two
days and one night in soliciting subscriptions in Story and Boone counties
for the location of the Iowa State Agricultural College. Five counties were
working very hard to secure the school, but the untiring efforts of Mr. Freed
and others resulted in having the college located at Ames. One man gave
thirty acres of a stone quarry and Mr. Freed opened this up and quarried
the rock for the foundation for the first buildings of the college erected
here. He also raised and dressed a pig which his wife roasted for the free
dinner which was held on the 4th of July, 1859, to celebrate the establish-
ment of the college, the entire countryside being invited to attend the feast.
In his political views Mr. Freed has always been a republican and an
earnest worker in the party ranks. He served for fourteen years as justice
of the peace and for two terms as county supervisor. While filling that
position the county board located the county farm and built the first house
thereon. When Mr. Freed came to Iowa the city of Ames had not been
founded and there was no railroad in the locality. Goods were hauled from
Keokuk and after the railroad was built to Iowa City Mr. Freed hauled
goods from that point to Boonesboro, about two hundred miles, with ox
teams. When he was living in Indiana he helped get out timber for the
construction of the Michigan Southern, the first railroad into Chicago. He
has always been on the side of progress and improvement, and his influence
has been a progressive element in the general development of the com-
munity.
On the I2th of September, 1852, Mr. Freed was united in marriage to
Miss Catharine D. \Miite, who was born in Wayne county, Ohio, June 5,
1833. and went to Indiana with her parents, James and Marjorie (Dough-
erty) White. Mr. and Mrs. Freed were married in Indiana and unto them
232 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
were born eight children: X'aleria A., the wife of Clate Foster, of South
Dakota; Mary Jane, the wife of Harvey Boughnian, of Ames; Alice G.,
the wife of Mark Prine, of Nebraska; Arthur D., a farmer of Kelley,
Iowa; Anna, the wife of William Prine. of Clinton, Iowa; Nancy Elizabeth,
the wife of Joseph Goldberger, of Mapleton, Iowa; Flora C, the wife of
Charles Antes, of South Dakota ; and Kittie B., who is a graduate of the
Iowa State College and is now librarian of the public library of Ames.
The daughter Alice was for three years a student in the Iowa State
College. Four of the daughters have been school-teachers and all of the
children are members of the Christian church.
For forty years Mr. and Mrs. Freed have held membership in the Chris-
tian church of Ames and for thirty-seven years he has been one of its
elders. He has ever taken active and helpful part in the church work, doing
all in his power to promote its growth and extend its intluence. His politi-
cal allegiance has been given to the republican party since 1856, when he
supported John C. Fremont. The family residence is at No. 514 Fifth
street and in addition to this Mr. I-"reed owns four other dwellings in .Vmes.
He has always enjoyed good health and has been an active man. He and
his family were one of a party of live families that came here together, but
Mr. and Mrs. Freed are now the only representatives of the older genera-
tion now living. They have always enjoyed the warm regard, good will
and confidence of those who know them and they are today among the most
esteemed and venerable citizens of the county. They have witnessed many
changes here, for at the time of their arrival Story county was largely an
unimproved and unsettled district. They have seen towns and villages
s])ring up, farms entered and improved and the work of general progress
carried steadily forward.
CART. A. ROSENFFJ.D.
Carl A. Rosenfeld, a representative and prominent agriculturist of
Story county was born December 10, 1875, upon his present farm on sec-
tion 33, Washington towiishii). about a mile north of Kelley. and has always
resided here, his time and energies being now given to the cultivation
of a place of one hundred and ninety acres on section 33. and also to a
portion of a tract of three hundred and seventy acres which belongs to
him, his mother and sister. It is known as the Rosengift farm and is de-
voted to stock-raising.
His parents were George and Louise ( I'ritch ) Rosenfeld. the former a
native of Baden and the latter of Saxony, Germany. The father was born
June 4, 1824, and in early manhood served for three years in the German
army. He was a schoolmate of General .Siegel, the distinguished German
citizen, and because of his active participation in the revolution of 1848
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 233
sought a home and hberty in America and won distinction here by his ser-
vice in the Civil war. George Rosenfeld learned the mason's trade in his
native land where he remained until 1855, when he crossed the Atlantic
to Xew York. The same year he was married there to Louise Fritch and
soon afterward they removed to Morrison, Illinois, where he worked at
his trade until 1873, when he came with his family to Story county and
settled upon the farm which is now the family homestead and upon which
he resided until his death, which occurred on the 6th of March, 1902. He
was a very successful agriculturist, capably managing his business alifairs
and making other investments in property until he was the owner of five
hundred and twenty-five acres of valuable land in this county at the time
of his death, including the tract which is now cultivated by his son Carl.
The father devoted his time to general farming and stock feeding. His
wife, who still survives him, was born in Sa.xony, Germany, January 3,
1855. She is now a resident of Ames. By her marriage she became the
mother of four children : Lester G., who is living a mile south of the Rosen-
gift farm and half a mile east of Kelley on a part of the old home place;
Clara, the wife of R. W. Crane, of Trenton, Missouri ; Carl A. ; and Minnie,
the wife of C. L. Severly, of Ames.
Carl A. Rosenfeld spent his youthful days on the old homestead, and
his experiences were those which usually fall to the farm lad. He pur-
sued his education in the public schools and when not busy with his text-
books worked in the fields under the direction of his father, so that his
training well qualified him to take charge of a farm of his own when he
•started out in life independently. He is now extensively and successfrlly
engaged in the breeding of Aberdeen Angus cattle and in 1909 sold an
Angus bull calf, Prince Pride, which was the first Aberdeen Angus to be
shipped from the LTnited States to the Argentine RepubHc. being sold direct
by Mr. Rosenfeld to South American parties. He has made exhibitions of
stock at the international stock shows at Chicago for the past four years. He
has been engaged in stock-breeding since 1902 and' keeps from thirty to one
hundred head of Aberdeen Angus cattle upon his place. He is also engaged
in breeding Poland China hogs, Belgium horses and Plymouth Rock chick-
ens. All lines of his stock are registered and all are thoroughbreds except
some stock which he feeds for general market. His whole time is devoted
to the stock business, and he has sold some very fine cattle, horses and hogs.
The calf which he shipped to South America brought six hundred :ind
twenty-five dollars.
On the 20th of March, 1901, Mr. Rosenfeld was married to Miss Anna
E. Johnston, who was born in Ogden, Iowa, September 4. 1882, and is a
daughter of Louis and Marie Hermanson, natives of Denmark. Mrs.
Rosenfeld lost her mother while an infant and was reared by John John-
ston, taking his name. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Rosenfeld have been born three
children, George Albert, Louise Marie and Clyde Lester.
234 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
rile family is prominent in the community and ]\Ir. Rosenfeld occin-ies
a leading position among the stock-raisers of this part of the state, conduct-
ing a business of extensive proportions and regarded throughout Iowa as
an authority upon Aberdeen Angus cattle. He is a most energetic man,
and his well formulated plans indicate sound judgment and keen discrimi-
nation.
DAXIELGUV .MILLS, M. D.
Dr. Daniel Guy Mills, who for fifteen years has engaged in the general
practice of medicine at McCallsburg, progressing continuously by reason of
his broadening experience and wide reading and study, was born in Ot-
tawa, La Salle county. Illinois, July 7, ilSdi. but from the age of five
years has been a resident of Story county.
It was in 1866 that his parents, Edward Clark and Levantia D. (Guy)
Mills, came to Iowa. They were natives of New York, the former born
at Cohoes and the latter at Guilford. Mr. Mills was of English lineage, his
parents having reached Cohoes only a short period before his birth. He
was a son of Daniel and Sarah Mills, who after living for some time in
the Empire state removed westward to Ottawa. Illinois, when Edward C.
Mills was a youth of seventeen years. After arriving at years of maturity
he wedded Levantia D. Guy. who when fifteen years of age went to East
Paw])aw. Illinois, with her parents, George and Rebecca (Keith) Guy.
Her mother was horn in Ireland of Scotch parentage. After living in
Illinois until i8(if) Mr. and Mrs. Edward C. Mills came to Story county.
Iowa, settling near Iowa Center, in Indian Creek township. The father
died there when but forty-two years of age, and the mother, long surviving
him, passed away in this county in 1907, at the age of seventy. Mr. Mills
had followed farming as a life work and was the owner of one hundred
and sixty acres of land in Indian Creek township. The family num-
bered eight children: Daniel G. ; William E., who is living in Maxwell.
Iowa; Ida, who died at the age of eighteen months; Lela A., the wife of
L. E. Byers, who resides at Sante ¥c on the Isle of Pines, in the West
Indies; Frank W.. a practicing physician at Otlumwa. Iowa; Charles C.
who is located in Oklahoma; Rose A., the wife of John E. Douglas, of
Polk county; and Levantia D.. also residing at the Isle of Pines, in the
West Indies.
Reared upon the old homestead farm in Indian Creek township. Dr.
Mills had the usual experiences of farm boys, working in the fields when
not occupied with the duties of the schoolroom and learning many lessons
from close contact with nature. Desirous of securing a broader education
than had hitherto been aflfordcfl him, he entered the Iowa State University
of Iowa City in 1892 and, electing to pursue the medical course, was grad-
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 235
uated il. D. from that institution in the spring of 1896. He then began
practice in McCallsburg, where he has since been located, and throughout
the intervening years has enjoyed a large and growing practice, indicative
of the confidence reposed in his skill and ability by his fellow townsmen.
He is conscientious in the performance of all professional duties, carefully
diagnoses his cases and his judgment is rarely, if ever, at fault. He keeps
in close touch with the advancement of the profession through his member-
ship in the Story County Medical Society and the Iowa State Medical So-
ciety.
In 1882 Dr. Mills was married to Miss Sarah L. Morrison, who was
born in Cedar county, Iowa, April 15, 1862, a daughter of John A. and
Fannie J. (Wilson) Morrison, who came to this county when Mrs. Mills
was about fifteen years of age, settling in Collins township. The father is
now deceased, while the mother resides in Rhodes, Iowa. Dr. and Mrs.
Mills have become the parents of four children. Guy Wilson, the eldest,
now editor of the Zearing Advocate, married Leila E. Peck and has two
children, Carrol B. and Lawrence G. John Clark, editor of the McCalls-
burg Tribune, wedded Myrtle R. Marsh and had two children : Everard C,
now deceased; and Linn Edward. Altha May is the wife of C. T. Knut-
son, of McCallsburg, and has one son, Chester Andrew. Edward Wil-
liam, the youngest of the family, is at home.
Dr. Mills holds membership with the Modern Woodmen of America
and the Royal Neighbors. His political allegiance is stanchly given to the
republican party and he is an active and helpful worker in its ranks. He
served for four years as county coroner but otherwise has not sought ofiice,
for his professional duties make constant demand upon his time and at-
tention. He is widely recognized as an able physician and in his practice
conforms at all times to a high standard of professional ethics.
PHILIP ALLEN.
Philip Allen, who is engaged in general farming and stock-raising on
section 22, Milford township, was born in Randolph county, Indiana, April
24, 1854. his parents being Philip and Louisa Allen. His father died of
cholera during the infancy of his son and namesake, and the boy was left
an orphan when but a year old, at the mother's death. He was the youngest
of four children, the others being: George W.. a farmer living at Macki-
naw, Illinois; Mary, a resident of Winchester, Indiana, who is the widow
of Moses Conyers, a Civil war veteran ; and Ella, the wife of William
Denton, also of Winchester, Indiana.
After the death of his parents, Philip Allen was reared by other people
until about fifteen years of age, when he started out in life on his own
account. From that time on he practically had no home until he made one
236 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
of his own. Indeed, he earned his Hving from the age of ten years, work-
ing at farm labor by the month in Indiana and Illinois until 1896, when
he came to Iowa. During the period of his residence in Illinois, he lived
in Tazewell county, until four years prior to his removal to Iowa, which
period he spent in Iroquois county. In 1896 he purchased his present farm
coniprising one hundred and sixty acres on section 22, Milford township,
and in the intervening period of fifteen years he has carried on general
agricultural pursuits and stock-raising. The past year he has rented his
land, but during nearly tlie entire period of his residence in Iowa he has
personally cultivated the tields, which he has brought under a high state
of improvement, adding all of the accessories and equipments of the model
farm of the twentieth century.
In 1874 Mr. .\llen was united in marriage to Miss Mary Rulon, who
was born in Tazewell county. Illinois, May 9, 1855, a daughter of Caleb
Rulon. Unto them have been born five children : Frank, who is living at
Zeering, Warren township; Sadie, the wife of M. L. Sower, of Milford
tow^nship ; Iva. who became the wife of Henry Hopper and died August 3,
1910, leaving twin sons, Harold Allen and Harlan Eugene, who were born
July 27, 1910; George, a law student of the Chicago Law University, who
was graduated from the Liberal Arts College of the University of Illinois
before entering upon his law course; and May, the wife of C. A. Chitty, a
farmer of Milford township.
Mr. Allen holds membership with the Presbyterian church of Nevada
and is most loyal to its teachings and principles. There were many hard
and trying experiences in his youth, but he learned the difficult lesson that
integrity and character are worth more in the world than advancement and
success. He therefore guided his life along the lines of straightforward,
honorable manhood and has not only won a creditable name but also a
goodly measure of prosperity, for his industry, reliability and perseverance
brought to him the substantial rewards of labor, and he is now one of the
well-to-do farmers of his communitv.
WILLIAM K( )l',l-:Kr Ill-ATIl.
Thirty-three years ago William Robert Heath, a descendant of go. i 1
pioneer American stock, came to Story county, and as he and his wife now
own a beautiful farm of two hundred and forty acres in Collins township,
he sees no cause to regret taking up his home in Iowa. He was born in
Hamilton county, Indiana, April 10, 1835, a .son of John .-\. and Sarah
(Glass) Heath, the former of whom was a native of South Carolina anl
the latter of Clark county, Indiana, where they were married, .\fter tiuir
marriage the young couple were conveyed by the father-in-law to a portimi
of Hamilton county. Indiana, which up to that time liad not been settle '
i
MR. AXD MRS. \V. R. HEATH
HISTORY OF, STORY COUNTY 239
Their household goods were unloaded in the midst of the virgin forest
and there JMr. Heath built a log cabin in which he and his bride took up
their residence. He cleared away the timber and as the years passed be-
came the owner of a valuable farm of two hundred and forty acres in
Hamilton county, Indiana, where they spent the remainder of their lives.
The father was born June i6, 1803. and departed this life September 20,
1888. at the age of eighty-five years. The mother was born July 5, 1806,
and passed away January 8. 1864, being about fifty-eight years of age.
Mr. Heath was originally a whig and upon the organization of the republi-
can party became one of its stanch supporters. Through his high character
and unselfish interest in the welfare of others he made a lasting impression
upon all who knew him. He and his wife were devout Christians and were
active workers in the United Brethren church.
William Robert Heath was educated in the little log schoolhouse of the
neighborhood in which he was reared and after he had advanced as far as
possible in his studies in the district school his father purchased a scholar-
ship in the United Brethren College at Hartsville, which he urged his son
to make use of. The latter, however, was determined to learn a trade and
instead of securing a college education he was at eighteen years of age ap-
prenticed to a cabinet-maker. He applied himself assiduously to the trade
for fourteen years, also becoming an undertaker and making all the coffins
himself which he disposed of during that time. In 1866 he turned his at-
tention to farming and rented the old homestead which he cultivated for
twelve years. The west presented inducements which Mr. Heath could
not well resist and accordingly in 1878 he came to Collins township, Story
county, and for three years engaged in farming on rented land. Having
prospered in his work, he bought the old Benjamin Shenkle homestead, to
which he removed in 1881, making it his permanent place of residence. He
has carried on general farming, sparing no pains to secure the best results
from his work. Being very thorough in everything he undertakes, he has
brought the farm to a high state of cultivation and has one of the model
places of the township.
On the 9th of December. 1855, Mr. Heath was united in marriage to
Miss Rachel Shenkle, a daughter of Benjamin Shenkle. of Story county,
a record of whom is found in the sketch of his son, W. T. B. Shenkle,
which appears elsewhere in this work. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Heath six
children have been born, four of whom are now living, namely : Etta, the
wife of Loren Fowler, of Baxter, Iowa; Belle, at home; John AI., of Meri-
dian, Oklahoma; and Halleck F., also at home.
Mr. Heath cast his first vote for John C. Fremont for president of the
United States and he has never departed from his allegiance to the republi-
can party, having firm faith that its principles are better adapted than those
of any other political organization to advance the prosperity of the entire
country. He has never aspired to public office, preferring the quiet chan-
nels of private life to the turmoil of political affairs, and each day he has
240 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
attempted to perform his duties as they arose according to the best of his
abihty. Mrs. Heath has been a valued assistant to her husband and is
prominently identified with the social interests of the community, being
also an active member of the United Brethren church. Mr. and Mrs.
Heath have many friends in Story county who greatly esteem ihem for
their genial qualities.
WILI.ARD MORRIS.
Willard Morris is a remarkably well preserved man of eighty-five years,
still active both in mind and body, giving his time and attention to the
cultivation of a farm of fifty acres which is situated on section 27, Frank-
lin township. He previously owned a much larger amount but has sold a
portion of his land. He was born in Lebanon, Madison county. New
York. June 21. 1825, his parents being William and Emma (Rice) Morris,
who spent the greater part of their lives in the Empire state. They were
probably natives of Massachusetts but both died in New York where the
father had followed the shoemaker's trade for many years and also en-
gaged to some extent in farming. Their children were William, Catharine,
Mary Ann, John, Willard, Jonathan, Abigail. Cornelia and two who died
in infancy.
Willard Morris is the only one of the family now living. His boyhood
and youth were spent in the east and he resided in Madison county, New
York, until 1854. when he sought the opportunities of the growing west,
making his way to Chatham. Sangamon county, Illinois. In that locality
he worked on a farm by the month. He had made the journey across the
country with a horse team from New York to Illinois and although he
had no capital at the time he hoped, by earnest labor and unfaltering dili-
gence, to become the possessor of a comfortable competence. He con-
tinued to work at farm labor for three years in Sangamon count>- and in
February, 1857, went to McLean county, Illinois, where he spent a year
devoting his attention to agricultural pursuits, but the following year he
became a resident of Whiteside county, Illinois, where he cultivated a
rented farm. In 1875 he took up his abode in Story county. Iowa, where
he has since resided, his time and energies being given to the cultivation
and improvement of his present farm which now comprises fifty acres of
rich and arable land. In former years he was much more extensively en-
gaged in general agricultural pursuits but because of advanced age has
sold one hundred and sixty acres of his property. His remarkable preser-
vation of his powers, however, enables him to contiinic the work on the
homestead although he is now eighty-five years of age.
In 1856 in Lebanon, New York. Mr. Morris was united in marriage to
Miss Adalinc Leonard, who was born .April 13. 1831. in New York, and
HISTORY OE STORY COUNTY 241
died in Story county, January 20. 1907. In their family were seven chil-
dren : Addie. the wife of Chester Davis, of Franklin township ; Ella, the
wife of L. G. Rosenfeld. who is living in Washington township; Josephine,
who is the widow of William Kinnan and resides with her father ; Walter
L. and Erank E., who are mentioned elsewhere in this volume ; Gertrude,
a school teacher residing with her father; and L. R. Morris, who is pro-
prietor of a livery stable at Ames. Mr. Morris is also rearing a boy, John
Cocklin, who was born February 8, 1906. His father was killed by the
cars when the child was but two weeks old, at which time he became a
member of the Morris household. He is the pet of Mrs. Kinnan, who
resides with her father.
During the period of his residence here Mr. Morris has ever enjoyed
and merited the confidence and high regard of his fellow citizens and
today is one of the most honored as well as one of the venerable residents
of the county. Few would realize, however, from his appearance that he
has passed the eighty-fifth milestone on life's journey, for he possesses the
vigor of many a man of younger years and in spirit and interests seems
yet in his prime.
CURTIS R. WICK.
Having had extensive experience in various lines of business, Curtis
R. Wick, cashier of the Exchange State Bank of Collins, was thoroughly
prepared for the responsibility he assumed when in August, 1909, he en-
tered upon his present duties. He is well acquainted with human nature
and few men of his age have had a better opportunity of observing busi-
ness methods or becoming familiar with the resources of the country, hence
he has been highly successful in the conduct of financial affairs.
Born in Monmouth, Illinois, February 27, 1861, he is a son of Cham-
bers and Catherine (Foster) Wick, both of whom were natives of Arm-
strong county, Pennsylvania. They were married in their native county
and about 1858 removed to Warren county, Illinois, where the father en-
gaged in farming. He departed this life about a year after his son was
born, and the mother subsequently returned to her native state but five
years later once more resumed her residence in Warren county, where she
continued until her death in 1888.
Curtis R. Wick received his preliminary education in the common
schools and later attended the Northern Illinois Normal School and the
Dixon Business College. .'\t the age of twenty-two years he became clerk
in a store at Lafayette, Indiana, a position which he held for five years,
when he went to Bartley, Nebraska, and engaged in general mercantile
business for one year. His next employment was in the fresh meat ship-
ping department of the Lincoln Packing & Provision Company at Lincoln,
242 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Nebraska. He was in cliarge of this department for four years and then
came to Manilla, Iowa, as bill clerk for the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul
Railroad and assistant agent of the United States Express Company.
About three years later he removed to Collins as local manager of the
Neola Elevator Company, and having become thoroughly acquainted witji
this line of Tjusiness was made traveling auditor of the company, which
position he held for five and one-half years. In August, 1909, he resigned
to accept the position of cashier of the Exchange State Bank and has dis-
charged his duties in such a way as to meet the hearty approval of officers
and patrons of the institution.
In 1884 Mr. Wick was united in marriage to Miss Helen Williams, of
Lafayette, Indiana, and three children were born to this union, two of
whom are now living: Beulah, the wife of O. H. Gearhart. of Collins
township ; and \\'allace. who is now a student of Highland Park College at
Des Moines. The mother of these children dying in October. 1898. Mr.
Wick was married in June. 1910. to Mrs. Hattie Campbell, the widow of
Charles E. Campbell and formerly Miss Hattie Carver.
Mr. Wick ever since arriving at voting age has cast his ballot for the
republican party. He is a member of Fervent Lodge, No. 513, A. F. &
A. M.; Green Lodge, No. 315, I. O. O. F.. of JefTerson, Iowa; Jefferson
Encampment, No. 103; and Crescent Camp, No. 2358, M. W. .\. He and
his estimable wife are also connected with the Order of the l"-astern Star
and the Royal Neighbors. He is an active worker in the Methodist church.
of which he is a trustee, while Mrs. Wick holds membership in the Chris-
tian church. He is a busy man but he always has time to extend a helping
hand to one less fortunate than himself and is justly held in high regard
wherever he is known, his success being the merited result of a wisely
directed energy.
THOMAS S. ERICKSON.
Although the home of Thomas S. Erickson stands within the corpora-
tion limits of Roland, it is situated upon a farm of one hundred and sixty
acres of which all but forty acres lies within the boundaries of the city.
His holdings elsewhere make him one of the extensive landowners of this
part of the county, and from his property he derives a substantial annual
income, resulting largely from the care and labor which he bestows upon
his place in keeping with the progressive spirit of the a^e. He is practical
in all that he does and his plans are well formulated. System characterize^
all of his imdertakings, and his methods will at all times bear the closc-i
investigation and scrutiny.
Mr. Erickson was born in the neighboring state of Illinois, his birtli
having there occurred in La Salle county on the ist of November, 1862.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 243
His parents were Solomon and Anna (HougelandJ Erickson, who were
natives of Imsland, Norway, where they were reared and married. In
ihc spring of 1857 they arrived in Illinois, bringing with them their little
daughter Anna. Establishing their home in La Salle county, they were
residents of that locality until they came to Story county, Iowa, in the
spring of 1868. Settling in .Milford township the father devoted his en-
ergies to general agricultural pursuits until his death, which occurred
January 12, 1889, when he was fifty-three years of age. His widow re-
mained upon the farm until 1900, when she removed to Roland where she
now resides. Mr. Erickson was the owner of two hundred and fifty-three
acres of land, all of which was cultivated and improved by him, his labors
converting it into one of the fine farms of the district. He was an active
and devoted member of the Lutheran church, and his upright, honorable
life won him kindly regard. The family numbered six children: Anna,
now the wife of O. C. Hoagland, of Alarshalltown, Iowa. Elizabeth, the
wife of H. J. Amondson, of Howard township; Thomas S. ; Ole J., who
IS living in Roland; Ira, a resident of Howard township; and Sarah, the
wife of L. M. Olson, of Roland.
Amid the usual conditions and environment of farm life Tliomas S.
Erickson spent his youthful days. The public schools afforded him his
educational privileges and he worked in the fields with his father up to the
time of his marriage, when he removed to a farm adjoining the old home
place, having in 1887 purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land. A
laudable ambition to attain success prompted him to bend every energy
toward the development and improvement of his place which he continued
to cultivate until 1894, when he sold that property and invested in two
hundred and forty acres in Warren township. There he resided until the
spring of 1903, when he removed to his present place within the corpora-
tion limits of Roland. He has in this farm a quarter section of which one
hundred and twenty acres lies within the corporation limits of the town.
He also retains the two hundred and forty-acre tract in Warren township
and is the owner of eighty acres of timber within the corporation limits
of Story City, so that his possessions aggregate four hundred and eight
acres. Both farms are well improved and indicate his careful supervision
and progressive, practical methods. Moreover, he is a stockholder in the
Farmers Savings Bank of Roland and his energy and determination have
classed him with the representative business men of his part of the county.
Pleasantly situated in his home life, Mr. Erickson was married May
25, 1893, to Maggie Hegland, who was born in. Roland, March 19, 1875, a
daughter of Michael and Carolina (Larson) Hegland, both of whom were
natives of Norway but are now residents of Roland. The children of this
marriage are: Stella, who was born August i, 1894; Maurice, born Oc-
tober 12, 1896; Lester, who was born October 7, 1898, and died at the
age of six months; Gladys, born December 12, 1900; Laurence, born Sep-
244 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
tcmber 19, 1906; and Fern and Flora, twins, who were born July 3, 1909.
The latter died when but a month old.
The parents hold membership in the Lutheran church and are people
of genuine personal worth, highly esteemed throughout the community.
Both belong to old and honored pioneer families of which they are worthy
representatives. Mr. Erickson votes with the republican party, and in
matters of citizenship his influence is always found on the side of reform
and im])rovcnient. while in every relation of life he stands for justice,
truth and right.
FRED C. McC.ALL.
I'rominent among the enterprising business men of Nevada is Fred C.
McCall, now filling the position of postmaster and long a well known and
popular resident of this city. He was born on October 7, 186S, a son of
Captain Thomas Clifton and Mary A. ( lioynton) McCall, and the grand-
son of Samuel \V. and Ann (Clifti)n) McCall. Tiie great-grandfather,
Thomas Clifton, served in the Revolutionary war for seven years, doing
duty under General (ircen most of the time. He participated in the battle
of Cowpens and in other important engagements. Samuel W. McCall was
a soldier of the war of 1812 and was wounded in battle, a
ball striking him in the arm. He was a son of another Samuel McCall
who was a soldier in the American army in the war for independence. The
family is of Scotch-Irish lineage and was founded in America by three
brothers who were Scotchmen but came from the Xorth of Ireland to the
new world.
Captain Thomas Clifton McCall, the father of Fred McCall. was born
in Ross county, Ohio, September 4, 1827, and in 1836, when a small boy,
came to Iowa with his parents. The summer was passed at Burlington,
after which they removed to Canton. Illinois, where they remained for
ten years. In the fall of 1846 they became residents of Polk county. Iowa,
where they spent about a decade. Thomas C. McCall accompanied his
parents on their various removals and while living in Polk county was
married, his first union being with Miss Garret. He then located at Des
Moines and afterward at Sioux City and Council Bluffs, where he was en-
gaged in the land business. In 1858 he came to Nevada, where he resided
until his death, and through much of the period of his residence here he
carried on a real-estate business. He was reared in the faith of the whig
party and upon the organization of the republican party joined its ranks,
giving to it earnest and stalwart support. He became a recognized leader
in [lolitical circles in Story county and was a member of the ninth general
assembly, also of the nineteenth and twentieth assemblies and was a mem-
ber of the state senate, representing I'.oone and Story counties at the time
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 245
of his death. The portrait of Captain Thomas CHfton McCall hangs in
the gallery of Iowa's distinguished citizens in the state Historical building
at Des Moines, Iowa. At one time he was a member of the state central
committee and did everything in his power to further the interests of the
republican party, believing lirmly in its principles as factors in good gov-
ernment. He was for many years a member of the Independent Order of
Odd Fellows and for a long period was an elder in the Presbyterian
church. His business affairs were most carefully conducted and by judi-
cious investment he became an extensive landowner, having over three
thousand acres at one time. By his first marriage he had one son, John
A., now a practicing attorney at Des Moines. After losing his first wife
he wedded Mary A. Boynton and unto them were born three children :
Minnie Ellen, now the wife of A. E. Cronenwett, of Monrovia, Califor-
nia ; Fred C, of this review ; and Edward M., an attorney of Nevada. For
his third wife the father chose Clara Kennedy, of Carrollton, Ohio, and
she is now a resident of Nevada. There was one son of this marriage who
died at the age of five years.
In the public schools of Nevada, Iowa, Fred C. McCall pursued his
education until he had completed the course, except the last term, leaving
the high school to enter the State Agricultural College at Ames, Iowa, in
February, 1884. He afterward spent a summer in Colorado and about a
year in California, and upon his return to Nevada engaged in the real
estate business in connection with his father, the partnership continuing
from 1889 until the father's death on the nth of August, 1892. Fred C.
McCall then continued in the real estate business under his own name,
operating quite extensively in property here until appointed postmaster of
Nevada on the ist of February, 1902. He took charge of the office on the
1st of March, 1902, and has filled the position to the present time, having
been twice reappointed. He is, moreover, well known in financial circles
of this city as a director of the First National Bank, to which office he was
elected six years ago. His business enterprise makes him a valued factor
of the community, and he has brought to his official duties the same pro-
gressive spirit and close application which characterizes the conduct of his
private business.
On the 2d of September, 1890, Mr. McCall was married to Miss Alice
Klove, a native of Iowa and a daughter of Edwin Klove, of Nevada, of
whom mention is made elsewhere in this work. Her death occurred in
February, 1891, and on the 7th of May, 1895, Mr. McCall was joined in
wedlock to Edith V. Ferner, who was born in this city and is a daughter
of James D. Ferner, who was postmaster here prior to Mr. McCall's ap-
pointment to the office and is now deceased. His widow survives him and
still makes her home in Nevada. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Fred C.
McCall has been blessed with two children, Thomas Clifton and Elva
Hazel.
246 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Reared in the faith of the repubhcan party. Mr. McCall has seen no
cause to change his allegiance since arriving at adult age, for mature judg-
ment sanctions that course, and he therefore gives to it stalwart support.
In 1896 he served as chairman of the county central committee. When but
twenty-one years of age he was elected township clerk and filled the posi-
tion for a term — his first political office. He has also been a member of the
Nevada school board. Fraternally he is connected with the Masons, hold-
ing membership in E.xcalibur Commandery, K. T., at Boone, and is a
charter member of Za-ga-zig Temple of the Mystic Shrine at Des Moines.
His connections with the blue lodge and chapter are at Nevada and he also
belongs to the Odd Fellows lodge in Nevada. He has a very wide ac-
quaintance in the state which has always been his home, and his substantial
qualities have won for him the high and enduring regard of many friends.
He is recognized as, a man true to every trust reposed in him, and whether
in office or out of it he displays the qualities of public-spirited citizenship
in his loyalty to the general good.
O. M. JOHNSON.
No obstacles seem too great for some indomitable spirits to overcome
and the life histories of many men in this work indicate that a young man
may attain practically any position in the business world he may desire
provided he thoroughly prepares him.'iclf and steadfastly perseveres. O. M.
Johnson, whose name stands at the head of this sketch, came to .America
from a foreign land a poor boy ; today he has attained a handsome com-
petence and is one of the honored men of Story county, who represent the
best citizenship. He was born in Norway. February 25. 1850, son of John
and Rachel (Halverson) Johnson, both of whom passed their entire lives in
Norway.
O. M. Johnson acquired his early education in the schools of his native
land and also had the advantage of one year's attendance at .Augsburg
School at Minneapolis. Alinnesota. Being ambitious as a boy to attain an
honorable place in life even though he should be obliged to take up his
home among strangers, he came to America when sixteen years of age.
After spending one year in La Salle county, Illinois, he was attracted to
Story county, Iowa, where he worked for two or three years as a farm
laborer, at the same time becoming acquainted with the language and cus-
toms of the country. In 1S71 he .secured a position with Baldwin &• Max-
well, merchants of Cambridge, and for about four years drove a team for
that firm. However, he was on the lookout for a more promising position,
which proved to lie a clerkship in the store of J. D. Brizley, of Cambridge,
in which position he continued for about five years, then going to Shcldahl
as clerk in the store of Nelson & Ersland for two years. Returning to
O. M. .JOHNSON
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 249
Cambridge, he began on his own account in the mercantile business under
title of O. j\I. Johnson di Company, seUing out six years later in order to
accept a position at Sheldahl under the employ of Oley Nelson, formerly
senior member of the firm of Nelson & Ersland. In the summer of the
same year Mr. Nelson removed his business to Slater and Mr. Johnson
went with him, continuing until 1894, when he rented Mr. Nelson's elevator
at Slater and became identified with the grain business, purchasing the ele-
vator in 1903. In 1904 Mr. Johnson bought from John \'alland his eleva-
tor and lumber yard at Huxley and since that time has been one of the
leading men of business in the community.
In 1879 Mr. Johnson was united in marriage to Miss Alice Larson, a
native of Norway, who located in Illinois in 1867 and came to Story county,
Iowa, in 1875. Eight children have blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs.
Johnson, four of whom are now living, namely: Joseph, now superintendent
of the city playgrounds of Dayton, Ohio; Rebecca, a teacher of music in
the Jewell Lutheran College; Martin, cashier of the Farmers Savings Bank
of Alleman, Iowa ; and Lennie, now attending the Jewell Lutheran College.
Mr. Johnson is a man who fearlessly follows his convictions in political
matters and having observed the evil etifects of the saloon he is a stanch ad-
vocate of prohibition. That his neighbors have great confidence in his judg-
ment is evinced by the fact that he is now serving his third term as mayor
of Huxley and for six years past has been a valued member of the school
board, having assisted very materially in the erection of the new school
building. He and his wife are consistent members of the Lutheran church.
He has from the beginning of his career been remarkably energetic and
wide-awake, and whatever rewards he has achieved have come to him as
the result of his own well directed efforts.
WILLIAM GATES.
Nevada has been signally favored in the class of men who have filled
lier public offices, for on the whole they have been practical business men
who have brought to the discharge of their official duties the same keen
insight and spirit of enterprise which characterizes their conduct of private
interests. In a history of those vvfhose records have been creditable and
beneficial to the city mention should be made of William Gates, who is
now Nevada's chief executive and one whose ability and fidelity are
strongly manifest by the fact that he is now serving in the office for the
fifth term.
He was born in Ireland, on the 17th of March, 1842, and is a son of
John and Katharine (Conigan) Gates, who were likewise native's of the
Emerald isle but in 1845 sailed for Canada, establishing their home at
Niagara-on-the-Lake. They brought with them their five children, but the
■2-do history of story county
mother died soon after their arrival. The father kept the children to-
gether for a few years but they later separated, as one after another started
out in business life. The father continued his residence in Canada until
his death, which occurred in 1869. The five children of the family are:
John, who died in Cedar Rapids, Iowa ; Margaret, who died in Los Angeles,
Cahfornia; Jennie, the widow of Dr. E. H. Akin and a resident of Oak-
land, California; William, of this review; and Maria, the widow of Wil-
liam Taber, of Minneapolis.
William Gates was only three years of age when brought by his parents
to the new world. He resided at Niagara, Canada, until twelve years of
age, when he took up his abode in the vicinity of Hamilton, where he re-
sided until the spring of 1865. In that year he came direct to Nevada
where he has resided continuously since. At twelve years of age he began
learning the blacksmith trade which he followed until January i, icjcx), and
has worked to some extent at the trade since that time in connection with
his sons who succeeded him to the business here. In 1895 he built a brick
shop forty by sixty feet and two stories in height. For many years he
carried on a very extensive business because of his expert workmanship
and his honorable dealing. He now owns two hundred and eighty acres of
valuable land four miles southwest of Nevada, which he has improved and
from which he derives a substantial annual income, his farm being the
visible evidence of his life of well directed energy .-uid thrift.
In 1864 Mr. Gates was married at Hamilton, Ontario, to Miss Agnes
Malloy, a native of Scotland born November i. 1844. With her parents
she went to Canada in her girlhood days. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Gates there
were born two children while residents of Canada while two others were
added to the family after the removal to Iowa. The eldest, Janette, died
at the age of one year and five months. W.R. is conducting the blacksmith
shop at this place. Mabel J. is a school teacher at Longmont, Colorado,
and Fred E. is a blacksmith of Beech, North Dakota. The two sons learned
their trade with their father and Fred followed blacksmithing in Nevada
until February, 1910, when he removed to his present place of residence.
Mr. Gates is a stalwart advocate of republican principles, supporting
the party since he became a naturalized citizen of the United States. He
has served as township trustee of Nevada township for several terms and
was .called to more important office in his election as mayor of the city.
He is now serving for the fifth term in this capacity and has made a
splendid record. Continued reelection is an indication of the confidence
and trust reposed in an individual and of his fidelity to that trust. Abra-
ham Lincoln said: "You may fool all of the people some of the time and
some of the people all of the time, but you can't fool all of the people
all of the time." The truth of this is nowhere so strongly manifest as in
jiolitics. for untrustworthiness antl lack of ability will surely he found out
and will awaken opposition. That Mr. Gates has been again .-ind again
elected to the office of chief executive proves that he has given to the city
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 251
a public-spirited and businesslike administration which receives the in-
dorsement of the general public. Fraternally he is connected with the
Masons, belonging to the blue lodge and chapter at Nevada. Excalibur
Commandery, K. T., at Boone, Iowa ; and Za-ga-zig Temple of the Mystic
Shrine at Des Moines. He is regarded as an exemplary representative of
the craft, and no history of Nevada would be complete without the record
of his life, so worthily has he borne himself as a factor in its public affairs
and in the progress of the city.
OBADIAH D. ALLEN.
For more than three decades Obadiah D. Allen was numbered among
the worthy citizens of Story county and those who knew him entertained
for him warm regard, for he was always straightforward in business, liv-
ing peaceably with his fellowmen and sought at all times the welfare and
progress of the community. He was born in Fairview township, Erie
county, Pennsylvania, on the 4th of September, 1836, his parents being
Lorenzo D. and Jane (Culbertson) Allen, the former a native of Otsego
county, New York, and the latter probably of Erie county, Pennsylvania,
where both died. On leaving the Empire state the father walked to Penn-
sylvania, driving before him an ox team. He followed farming, devoting
his entire life to that pursuit. His family numbered seven children : Joshua,
now deceased ; L. C, of Franklin township, who came to this county in
1868; Obadiah E. ; Andrew, who served for three years in the Eighty-third
Pennsylvania \'olunteer Infantry during the Civil war and is now de-
ceased; Ebenezer, who was killed in the battle of Gettysburg; Mary, who
died in childhood ; and Martha, the wife of Jay Frances, of Erie county,
Pennsylvania.
Obadiah D. Allen remained with his parents until twenty-one years of
age and then removed westward to Wisconsin, but after a short time re-
turned to Erie county and was there married in 1862. He afterward went
to Branch county, Michigan, where he lived for six years, and in 1868
came to Story county, Iowa, settling in Franklin township, where he re-
sided until his death, which occurred February 23, 1899. He was a life-
long farmer and was the owner of an excellent property of one hundreii
and twenty acres about a mile north of College.
In 1862 Mr. Allen was married to Miss Sarah S. Strickland, who was
born at East Gainesville, Wyoming county. New York. May 27, 1840, and
tliere resided until ten years of age, when she went to Erie county, Penn-
sylvania, with her parents, William and Betsy (Wadsworth) Strickland.
Her father, who was born in England, October 23, 1808, came to the
United States when about twenty years of age and died at the age of
seventy-one. He was a miller by trade. His wife was born near Rome,
252 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Xew York, January 6, 1806, and died in Erie county, Pennsylvania, Feb-
ruary 22, 1882. She was related to the well known Wadsworth family of
Geneseo, New York, and her brother, Lee Wadsworth, is still living at the
age of over ninety years and is one of the wealthy residents of Michigan.
Mr. and Mrs. Strickland had five children: William W., who died March
7, 1909; Sarah S. ; Harriet L., the wife of L. O. Eldridge, of Springfield,
Erie county, Pennsylvania; J. F., who died in 1893; and Kittie O.. also
of Springlield, Penn.sylvania. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Allen were born five
children: Edgar S., of Rocky Ford, Colorado; Edwin F., the twin brother
of Edgar S., and a resident of Cambria, Iowa ; Hattie M., the wife of
W. R. Dodds, a farmer of this county ; William D., a railway engineer of
Dubuque, Iowa ; and Hugh, a brick-mason of Ames.
In his political views Mr. Allen was a Lincoln republican. He kept
well informed on the questions and issues of the day and was a public-
spirited citizen but never sought nor desired office save in connection with
the schools. He belonged to the Grange and lived a quiet and uneventful
but useful life, which gained him the kindly regard of his fellowmen. He
was in the si.xty-third year of his age at the time of his death, February
23, 1899, and was not only deeply mourned by bis family but Aha by his
many friends.
NEHEMIAH H. NELSON.
Among the extensive landowners of Story county is Nehemiah H. Nel-
son, who was born in Hardin county. Iowa, on the 12th of September.
1880. His father, Henry Nelson, was born in Norway in 1854 but decided
that the United States afforded far better prospects than the old country
and therefore in 1875 he emigrated. He remained on the Atlantic coast
a short time and then made his way to Hamilton county, Iowa, where he
engaged in farming, and later lived for a time near what is now the village
of Randall. In 1880 he removed to Hardin county, where he lived for ten
years, and then located in RadclifFe but after five years' residence in the
latter place he returned to Hamilton county, where he continues to live.
In 1878 he was united in marriage to Miss Amelia Peterson and to them
were born the following children: Nehemiah H.; Helen E., who married
S. V. Van Winkle, of Eagle Grove, Iowa; and Tobie A., the wife of E. C.
Houck. of Iowa Falls, Iowa. Mrs. Nelson passed away in 1886, and the
father later married Miss Cecelia Onstean, his present wife, and they have
become the parents of five children: Gertie, Lloyd, Lilas, Otis and Mamie.
Nehemiah H. Nelson acquired his preliminary education in the district
'ichools of Hardin county and later lie attended Jewell Lutheran College
at Jewell, Iowa, where he took a commercial course. After his graduation
in 1899 he came to McCallsburg, being employed in the bank for seven
HISTORY OF' STORY COUNTY 253
years, but at the end of that time he engaged in the real-estate, insurance
and loan business. Mr. Nelson has been quite successful in all of his un-
dertakings and has acquired three hundred and twenty acres of land in
Warren township and several hundred acres in South Dakota.
Mr. Nelson completed his plans for a home by his marriage to Miss
Annie Guthrie, and to this union two children have been born : Lucille and
Ilo. He is a member of the Modern Woodmen of American and votes the
republican ticket. He takes quite an active interest in local politics.
THOMAS E. POSEGATE.
The majority of travelers who reach Story county today come in Pull-
man parlor cars, equipped with nearly all of the conveniences and luxuries
which one may obtain at home. Thomas E. Posegate, however, drove
across the country with team and wagon for no railroads had been built
in this section at that time and the seeds of civilization had scarcely been
planted within the borders of the county. Here and there a settlement had
been made but much of the land was still in possession of the government,
and there was little to indicate that the county would soon become a popu-
lous and prosperous region.
Mr. Posegate was born in Vermilion county, Illinois, on the 27th of
August, 1833, his parents being Thomas and Charity (Hay worth) Pose-
gate, both of whom were natives of Ohio, where they were reared and
married. They afterward removed to Vermilion county, Illinois, where
they spent their remaining days upon a farm. Their family numbered
sixteen children, eight of whom lived to years of maturity.
Thomas E. Posegate spent his youth in the usual manner of farm lads
in Illinois during the pioneer period. His educational opportunities were
limited to the advantages afforded in the public schools but his training at
farm labor was not meager. As soon as old enough to handle the plow
he took his place in the fields and worked from the time of early spring
planting until crops were harvested in the late autumn. He resided at
home until his marriage, which was celebrated in 1852, Miss Martha A.
Seal becoming his wife. She was born in Vermilion county, Indiana, Oc-
tober 10, 1836, and was a daughter of Thomas and Mary (Trowser) Seal,
who were natives of Ohio. Her father died in Illinois but her mother
spent her last years in Story county.
It was in the year 1854 that Mr. and Mrs. Posegate came to Iowa.
They drove across the country from their old home in Illinois to Warren
county, where they spent the winter, and in the spring of 1855 they con-
tinued their journey to Story county, settling at Ballard Grove, Mr. Pose-
gate entering one hundred and sixty acres of prairie land near the grove
in Palestine township. He never resided upon that place, however, but
254 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
had a small tract of land in the grove, for at that day people were afraid
to get very far out on the prairie, believing it vk-ould be safer and better
to live in the timber. The second winter was a very severe one and there
was much suffering. The family occupied a log cabin for a number of
years, and .Mr. Posegate tried strenuously to make a comfortable living
for his family. Des Moines was at that time the nearest market and also
the closest milling place and it took a long time to make the trip to the
city in order to secure supplies. Mr. Posegate has resided continuously
in that portion of Story county since 1855 and was actively engaged in
farming until eight years ago, when he €old his place and removed to
Kelley, where he has since lived. During most of the time he owned and
cultivated one hundred and sixty acres of good land and lived the life of
a quiet, industrious and energetic farmer, who realized that his success
must come from persistent and determined effort.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Posegate were born six children: John, who died
when but sixteen months old; Mary, who is the wife of W. Parriott, of
Nebraska, and has eight children ; George, of Des Moines, who is married
and has five children ; Eli. who is living in Boone county, west of .Ames,
and has eight children; Ellen, who is the wife of Joseph Montgomery, of
Nebraska, and has one child ; and Victoria, who became the wife of C. A.
Crane and died in 1907 at the age of forty years, leaving three children.
Mr. and Mrs. Posegate now have twenty-five grandchildren.
In Story county this worthy and venerable couple are widely and
favorably known. They are members of the Baptist church and their
entire lives have been passed in harmony with its teachings. While they
have never sought to figure prominently in public or social ways, they have
so lived as to gain the esteem and good will of their fellowmen and all
who know them entertain for them warm regard.
GENER.M. J.VMES RUSH LINCOLN.
General James Rusji Lincoln, brigadier general of the Iowa National
Guard and military commandant of the Iowa State College at .Ames, was
born in Frederick county, Maryland, February 3, 1845, a son of Thomas
Blodget and Sophie Julia (Ash) Lincoln, both of whom were natives of
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where they were reared and married. The
father was one of the original directors of the Southern Pacific Railroad
and also spent considerable time in Texas in the development of railroads
in that state. He likewise owned a large stock ranch there. He inherited
an extensive fortune, which gave him opportunity to live as and where he
pleased, and in many ways his wealth was used for the advantage of the
sections in which he resided. He lost his wife when their son James was
HISTORY OF. STORY COUNTY 255
but three months old, after which the father spent much of his time in
travel, his death occurring in Cecil county, Maryland, in 1888.
Thomas B. Lincoln was a son of Abel Fearing Lincoln, an officer in the
United States navy, who died in New Orleans of yellow fever when thirty-
tive years of age. Major General Benjamin Lincoln was a brother of the
great-great-grandfather of General Lincoln of this review and received the
surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown. He was the eldest of the family,
while Seth Lincoln, the great-great-grandfather of General Lincoln, was
the youngest. Thomas Blodget Lincoln, the father, received his middle
name because of connection with the old Blodget family of New England.
His grandmother was the wife of Colonel Samuel Blodget, son of Governor
Blodget of New Hampshire, and she was a daughter of Dr. William Smith,
who with Benjamin Franklin founded the University of Pennsylvania and
was the first provost of the university. The maternal grandfather of Gen-
eral Lincoln was Michael W. Ash, a brigadier general of the war of 1812
and of Irish birth. Genealogical records connect the family with the an-
cestry of President Lincoln, the line in each case being traced back to three
brothers who came from England and landed on American soil in 1637.
They located at Hingham, Massachusetts.
The family of Thomas B. and Sophie J. Lincoln numbered four chil-
dren, namely : Matilda, Harriet, Sophie and James R. The three sisters
are yet living but none are married.
General Lincoln traveled with his father until nine years of age and
had been all over the continent prior to that time. A private tutor accom-
panied them and thus his education was not neglected. At the age of nine,
however, he was placed in school and continued his studies until after the
outbreak of the Civil war, attending the Loudon Military Academy of
Maryland, the Virginia Military Institute and the Pennsylvania Military
College. After the outbreak of hostilities the military spirit which he in-
herited from his ancestors was aroused and, espousing the cause of the
Confederacy, he joined J. E. B. Stuart's Cavalry, which with Lee's army
surrendered at Appomatto.x. He was serving on staff duty at the battle
of Gettysburg and participated in a number of the hotly contested engage-
ments of the Civil war.
General Lincoln afterward spent two years in Virginia and then came
to Iowa, settling in Boone in February, 1868. He remained a resident of
Boone county until October, 1883, when he came to Ames and took charge
of the military department and steward's department of the Iowa State
College, remaining in charge of the military section continuously since but
resigning the steward's department in 1892. He has also taught in the
engineering department but is perhaps most widely known because of his
prominence in military circles. He mobilized the Iowa troops for the
Spanish-American war and sent them to the front. He was appointed
brigadier general by President McKinley on the 27th of May, i8g8, and
commanded a brigade in the Fourth Corps, later a brigade of the Second
256 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Corps and subsequently the Second Division of the Second Corps. He was
the last volunteer brigadier general to be mustered out after the close of
hostilities with Spain, his military service in that war continuing until
March i6, 1899. He then returned to Ames, where he has resided con-
tinuously since. At the reorganization of the Iowa National Guard after
the war, he took command of the Mfty-first Regiment and later of the
Fifty-fifth Iowa Infantry. On the 5th of July, 1908, he was elected briga-
dier general of the Iowa National Guard, which position he has since filled.
In 1865 General Lincoln was married to Elizabeth Blake, of X'irginia,
who died in 1866, leaving a son. who died in 1908 and left a widow and two
children in Richmond, Virginia. In 1872 General Lincoln wedded Pris-
cilla C. Hicks, a native of New York and a daughter of Alexander Ham-
ilton Hicks, who removed from the Empire state to Three Rivers, Michi-
gan, but is now deceased. The children of the second marriage are: W'il-
liani B., government inspector in charge of packing houses in Nashville,
Tennessee ; Charles S., who is a graduate of the Iowa State College and is
now a captain of the Second Infantry of the regular army; Theressa, at
home; Francis H., a captain in the coast artillery of the United States
army, being artillery engineer officer of the district of Boston, Massa-
chusetts ; Arthur J., an employe of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Rail-
road ; Rush B., a lieutenant of the Second Infantry, U. S. A. ; and Lotie,
who died in 1898 at the age of nine years.
General Lincoln is a man of fine personal appearance, whose soldierly
bearing is at once evidence of his military training and experience. He
holds to a high standard in the military training of his department in col-
lege and of the state troops as well and has every reason to be proutl of
the record of the Iowa National Guard.
ANDREW C. ANDERSON.
Andrew C. .Anderson, who owns a well developed and highly productive
farm in Palestine township, belongs to the class of men who win their way
to the front regardless of circumstances. They possess the strength and
energy so necessary in the acconi])lishment of an important undertaking, es-
pecially in the attainment of financial success. In this class are to be found
many men representing the best type of American citizenship.
Mr. .Anderson was born in Clinton county, Iowa. October 28, 1871. a
.son of Christoiiher and X'elder .Anderson, both natives of Norway. They
lived for a short time in L"linton county, and tlun removed to Story county.
Mr. .\nderson jnirchasing a farm about four miles nortiiwest of Huxley, in
Palestine townslii|i. This place he cultivated to good advantage until 1898,
when he removed to Huxiev. where he has since resided. He and his wife
jf-
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 259
are active members of the Lutheran church and on account of their many
estimable traits of character are greatly esteemed by all who know them.
Andrew C. Anderson was reared on the home farm, acquiring his educa-
tion in the district schools and showing an application both as to work and
study which gave favorable promise for a successful career. After arriving
at twenty-one years of age he worked as a farm hand by the month for two
years and then rented land on his own account, applying himself with such
earnestness that in 1895 he had acquired sufficient capital to purchase the
farm upon which he has since lived. It now consists of one hundred and
fifty-four acres, the interurban railway cutting ofif six acres of the quarter
section. He has improved his place with characteristic energ}', setting out
a good orchard, shade and ornamental trees, building large barns and a
thoroughly modern residence, which he erected in the spring of igio, sup-
plying it with furnace heat and the most approved and up-to-date conven-
iences. He ranks as one of the most thorough farmers of the township.
In 1898 Mr. Anderson was united in marriage to Miss Lessie Chelswick,
of Palestine township, a daughter of Peter Chelswick, one of the settlers of
this township. Four children have blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs. An-
derson : Clara V., Palmer O., Willard E. and Leroy A.
Mr. Anderson and his estimable wife are firm believers in the authority
and inspiration of the Bible and are stanch members of the Lutheran church.
He votes for the candidates of the republican party and although not a poli-
tician in the sense of being an office seeker, he keeps well informed as to
questions arising from year to year and also on the general progress of
events in America and the world. He is recognized as a man of good judg-
ment and fine business capacity and his opinion on subjects pertaining to
agriculture or stock-raising is generally worthy of respectful hearing. His
neighbors and friends recognize that he possesses the elements of character
most essential in the attainment of success, therefore he is greatly respected
bv all who know him.
JOSEPH LANCASTER BUDD.
Ames has ever regarded Professor Joseph Lancaster Budd as one of
the most prominent citizens that has ever lived within her borders. He
was a man of international reputation because of his contribution to the
world's work along horticultural lines. There is no one of prominence in
horticultural circles that is not familiar with his name and what he ac-
complished as educator, writer and experimenter in the field to which he
devoted his labors.
Professor Budd was born near Peekskill, on the Hudson river, in New
York, July 3, 1835, and was one of the younger members in a family of
eleven children, whose parents were Joseph and jMaria (Lancaster) Budd,
260 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
the latter a daughter of David Lancaster, of Orange county. New York.
He traced his ancestry back to John Budd, the man who purchased thirty
thousand acres of Indian lands in 1660 and erected the first buildings in
Westchester county, New York. His ancestral line includes John Budd,
1600-1673; John Budd, Jr., 1620-1684; Captain Joseph Budd, who died in
1722, and Sarah Underbill; Joseph Budd. 1702-1763; Joseph Budd III,
who died in 1772, and Elizabeth Griffin; Griffin and Katherine (Sutton)
Budd; and Joseph and Maria (Lancaster) Budd. Among his ancestors
who served in the Revolutionary war were Andrew Sutton. John Griffin,
David Lancaster and Joseph Budd.
In early childhood Joseph L. Budd was taken by his parents to Monti-
cello. Sullivan county. New York, where he was reared to young manhood,
pursuing his education in Monlicello Academy. About 1855 he came to
the middle west and accepted the professorship of a boys school at Gales-
burg. Illinois. Subsequently he was engaged in business with H. Fuller,
at W'heaton. Illinois, and about 1858 became a resident of Iowa, pur-
chasing in the vicinity of Shellsburg a large farm, which the family still
own. There he established the Benton County Nursery and successfully
continued in that business until called to the faculty in the Iowa State
College in 1877. He was elected professor of horticulture in the school
at Ames, in November, 1876, and entered upon his new work on the ist
of March of the following year, continuously filling the position for twenty-
three years. He was called the "Columbus of American Horticulture" be-
cause of what he did to classify and make the subject a permanent science.
The success of his work may be shown in the fact that in the year 1900
fully seventy-five per cent of the men filling similar positions in American
colleges were cither his "boys" or men who had received their inspiration
from this pioneer, and the department of agriculture at Washington was
ever eager to obtain the services of men whom he had trained. He wa-
a pioneer plant breeder and experimenter of this work, beginning his labors
along those lines as early as 1870. The work of importation and experi-
mentation with Russian and other European fruits was begim ai the bnva
State College in 1878 and so continued until he resigned in 1900. During
the summer of 1882 he was sent to Europe by the governments of the
United States and Canada to study horticultural problems, especially the
Russian fruits. Charles Downing, the pioneer pomologist of New York,
willed his horticultural library of three hundred volumes and all his private
papers of a technical nature to Professor Budd. with instructions that tlicy
were to go to the college when Mr. Budd was througli with them.
Professor Budd was a prolific writer who never lacked in material for
an interesting article in the Iowa State Register and Leader, or in the
various horticultural and scientific periodicals to which he was a frequeir
contributor. He had a host of readers who always received, with interest,
the reports of his investigations and experiments. He continuously con-
tributed articles to the Iowa State Register from 1S72 until i<KX). then
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 261
being scarcely a week in which something from his pen did not appear in
that paper. During Father Clarkson's last illness he requested that Pro-
fessor Budd be made an editor of the Iowa State Register, continuing the
agricultural department. His authorship also included two volumes en-
titled American Horticultural Manual, which he published in collaboration
with Professor X. E. Hanson, one of his "boys." This was the culmina-
tion of his work along technical lines and the manual is to be found in all
colleges and large libraries in the country. On resigning his position in
the Iowa State College in 1900, he was made professor emeritus, an hon-
orary title. He continued to take an active interest in the college, however,
up to the time of his death. He was a pioneer member of the Iowa State
Horticultural Society and as its secretary edited all but four or five of the
annual reports up to the year 1900.
On the 7th of January, i860, at Iowa City, Professor Budd was united
in marriage to Miss Sarah Breed, of Crown Point, New York, who was
there born, reared and educated. She came to Iowa with a married sister
and engaged in teaching school at Cedar Rapids, where she made the ac-
quaintance of Mr. Budd. She was a member of the old Breed family of
Lynn, Massachusetts, the ancestral record being as follows : Allen Breed,
1601-1692; Allen Breed, 1626 ; Joseph Breed, 1658-1713; Allen Breed,
who was born in 1707, and Huldah Newhall ; Eliphalet Breed, who was
born in 1750, and wedded Mary Johnson; Allen Breed, 1778-1853, who
married Judith Livingston; and Allen Breed, who was born in 1801, mar-
ried Barbara Baldwin and died in 1877. Among Mrs. Budd's ancestors
were two who served in the Revolution : Isaac Livingston, of New Hamp-
shire, and Oliver Ladd, of Vermont. Unto Professor and Mrs. Budd were
born a son and daughter. The former, Allen Joseph Budd, was born at
Shellsburg, Iowa, and was educated in the Iowa State College at Ames.
He then returned to his native town, where he is engaged in active busi-
ness. He married Miss Nellie McBetH and has reared and educated a large
family, his children being Joseph Arthur, Mrs. June E. Case, Leila, Vera,
Sarah Jane, Myron and Alfred. Etta M. Budd, born in Shellsburg, Iowa,
accompanied her parents to Ames and was graduated in the Iowa State
College. Later she was successfully engaged in the study of art in Boston,
New York and Chicago. After the death of her father she continued to
live in the parental home and conducted much of the business of the estate.
She is the genealogist of the Budd family.
In early life while residing in Benton county. Professor Budd joined
the Masonic fraternity. November 14, 1863, and continued his connection
with the order until his death. He built and owned the home of Arcadia
Lodge, No. 249, A. F. & A. M. in Ames. He took great delight in building
operations and found extreme pleasure in erecting some large building,
and thus contributing to the welfare and improvement of the city in which
it was located. He found rest, recreation, interest and education in travel
and visited nearly all of the European countries. Cuba and the various states
262 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
of the Union. He possessed an observing eye and retentive memory and his
mind was stored with many interesting reminiscences of his journeys. In
character he was quiet and unassuming but always made friends wherever
he went and had the happy faculty of retaining them. He did much good
in the world, aside from his discoveries and experiments in the field of
horticulture, by assisting students who came under his guidance and aiding
them to gain a start in life. He was an ideal man in his home, devoted to
the welfare of wife and children and he left his family well provided for.
His death occurred at Phoenix, Arizona, December 20, 1904, and his re-
mains were brought back to Ames for interment. Xot seeking honor but
simply endeavoring to do his duty, honors were yet multiplietl to him and
prosperity followed all his undertakings.
H. C. DAMS.
H. C. Davis, devoting his life to general agricultural pursuits, was born
on the farm on section 36, Franklin township, on which he now resides, his
natal day being December 6, 1871. He has always resided here and
throughout his entire life has been connected more or less with the work of
the fields, his time and attention being now given to the cultivation of one
hundred and eighty-five acres of rich and productive land known as the
Evergreen farm.
His parents were John E. and Sarah A. (Benson) Davis, the former
born in Canandaigua, New York, August 18, 1832, and the latter at Spen-
cerport, New York, on the nth of November, 1835. They were reared in
the Empire state and were married there on the i8th of January, 1859.
For several years thereafter they resided in Ontario county, New York,
but in 1868 removed westward to Story county, Iowa, settling on the farm
which is now the home of their son H. C. Davis. Here their remaining
days were passed, the father's death occurring April 16, 1891, while his
wife survived until February 28, 1900. Both were members of the Con-
gregational church and were people of sterling worth, who enjoyed tin
good will and friendship of those who knew them. The father devoted hi>
entire life to farming and was the owner of two hundred and thirty-five
acres of land in this county, including one hundred and twenty acres of
the farm upon which H. C. Davis now resides ; while the remainder lay
across the road in Milford township. The family numbered three sons:
Herbert M., who is now living in Greensburg, Kansas; George S., who was
killed in a railroad wreck in northwestern Iowa on the 20th of December.
1887; and H. C, of this review.
No event of special importance occurred to vary the routine of farm
life for H. C. Davis in his boyhood and youth. He pursued his education
in the district schools and when not busv with his text-books worked in
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 263
the fields or did the chores, gradually becoming more and more familiar
with the best methods of tilling the soil and caring for the crops. At
length he purchased one hundred and twenty acres of the old homestead
and to this has added until his place now comprises two hundred and
twenty-three acres. The land is rich and productive, and the Evergreen
farm is known as one of the excellent properties of Franklin township.
Upon the place is a ten-room brick residence which was erected by his
father in 1880, and the barns and outbuildings are in good condition, fur-
nishing ample shelter for grain and stock. ITe has made a specialty of
breeding and raising Percheron horses and Shetland ponies and in this
connection has become widely known.
On the 28th of February, 1894, Mr. Davis was united in marriage to
Miss Dora E. Lawson, who was born in Polk county, Iowa, June 11, 1871,
and is a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Highland) Lawson. They now
have four children: Hazel A., Ida S., Esther Elizabeth and Fredericka.
In 1888 Dr. Davis with his mother attended a reunion of the Davis
family at Canandaigua, New York, where he met over eighty relatives.
These reunions are held annually. A member of the Congregational church
of Ames, he has endeavored to guide his life by its teachings and his fellow
townsmen recognize in him an honorable, upright man and a public-spirited
citizen.
SAMUEL M. McHOSE.
Samuel AI. McHose, a well known tile and brick manufacturer of
Nevada, was born in Geneseo, Illinois, August 17, 1856, and is a son of
Samuel and Mary (Dillin) McHose, the former of whom was born in
Pennsylvania and the latter at Jefferson, New York. The family comes
of Scotch ancestry on the paternal side and also of good Revolutionary
stock. Early in his career the father learned the brickmaker's trade but
worked at the cooper's trade in winter. He removed to Henry county,
Illinois, in 1850, and in 1854 established a brickyard at Geneseo, continu-
ing there until 1876, wdien he became a resident of Grinnell, Iowa, and was
identified for ten years with the brick and tile business at that place. He
is now living retired at the age of eighty-seven years, one of his sons hav-
ing succeeded him in the business. Being an energetic man of good judg-
ment, he attained a fair measure of success, acquiring a competence, so
that at the present time he is in the enjoyment of the results of many years
of well applied energy. Politically he gave his allegiance to the republican
party during the greater part of his life but now votes independently. The
mother of our subject departed this life in 1863, being then about forty-
six years of age. She was of Irish descent and was a sister of the late
James Dillin, a record of whom appears elsewhere in this work. She was
261 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
a tirm believer in llic J^ible and a valued member of the Methodist church.
There were eight children in the family.
Samuel M. McHose began his education in the public schools of
Geneseo, and after coming to Nevada in 1876 attended school for two
years. Ilis brothers, J. B. and W. E. McHose had established a brickyard
at this place to make brick for the new courthouse, and when not in school
worked for them, becoming a partner at the end of two years. In 1879
he established himself in business at the Short Line bridge at the foot of
Linn street, where he was located for eight years. He then sold out anti
operated a yard west of the college at Ames for a year, after which he
spent two years in St. Anthony, Marshall county. He ne.xt went to Pack-
wood, Jeflferson county, where he engaged in the manufacture of brick and
tile. However, he was again attracted to Nevada and in 1897 he opened
his present plant on the Ames road, one mile from the business center of
the city. This plant has a capacity of two carloads of tile per day and also
possesses the facilities for the manufacture of a fine quality of building
brick, the property including fifteen acres of fine clay. In 1905 the main
building was destroyed by fire and has been replaced by a three-story brick
structure si.xty by one hundred and seventy-five feet in foundation area.
This building contains the machinery and drying rooms and is supplied
with a complete outfit for the manufacture of brick and drain tile accord-
ing to the most approved modern methods. There are .six kilns, each hav-
ing a capacity of eighteen thousand four-inch tile. The plant gives em-
ployment to eighteen men and is one of tlic best appointed establishments
of the kind in this part of the country. ^Ir. McHose also owns a hand-
some modern brick residence, which was erected in 1901, and is quite an
extensive landowner, holding at the present time three quarter sections of
land in Kossuth county and one thousand acres in the state of Minnesota.
In 1887 Mr. McHose was united in marriage to Miss Sarah M. Sharon,
who was born in Marshalltown. Iowa, in 1866. a daughter of Simon and
Charlotte ( I'liillips) Sharon. Her father was a blacksmith by trade and
also followed farming. Two children have blessed the union of Mr. and
Mrs. McHose: Ray M., who was born at Packwood, Iowa, in 1888 and is
now a student in tlie sophomore class of the Iowa State University, where
he is taking a course in ceramic engineering; and Winifred M., also born
at Packwood and now one of the successful school teachers of the county.
As a wide-awake and progressive business man Mr. McHose is an
active member of the Nevada Commercial Men's Association. He give-
his allegiance to the republican party, believing that its principles of pr^
tection and centralization are conducive to the prosperity and development
of the country. Although not a member of any religious denomination, he
is friendly toward them all ,uid extends his support toward those causes
which in his opinion will add to the permanent welfare of the community.
Mrs. McHose is a valued member of the Christian church and has been
to her husband a true and loving lieli)mate. His success in business has
HISTORY OP STORY COUNTY 265
been due to undaunted perseverance and sound judgment. Happy in his
home associations and in the work to which he is devoting the best energies
of his hfe. it may truly be said that the position which he has earned has
been reached deservedlv.
WILLIAM H. JOHNSON.
WilHam H. Johnson has for forty-two years resided upon the farm on
section 7. ^^'ashington township, which is now his home. He formerly
owned one hundred and seventy acres but about ten years ago disposed of
ninety acres of this. The remainder of his place is all improved, and upon
it is a good set of farm buildings, including a pleasant home and bams
and sheds which furnish ample shelter to grain and stock. Mr. Johnson
was a young man of twenty-seven years when he located upon this place,
his birth having occurred in Fayette county, Pennsylvania, near Smith-
ville, on the 14th of April, 1842.
On attaining his majority he went to Wisconsin, settling in
Green county, where lie lived for five years. In the fall of
1869 he came to Iowa and took up his abode upon the farm where
he now makes his home — a well improved and highly cultivated tract of
eighty acres. He has improved the place with good buildings and every-
thing about the farm presents a neat and thrifty appearance, indicating the
careful supervision and progressive methods of the owner. Mr. Johnson
also became closely identified with educational interests here. He began
teaching when nineteen years of age and taught in all for about thirty
terms, but in the meantime three summer seasons were devoted to the cul-
tivation of his fields.
In 1867 Mr. Johnson was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth J. Sin-
clair, who was born in Monroe county, Ohio, on the 15th of May, 1845,
and went to Wisconsin with her parents when about ten years of age. The
home of Mr. and Mrs. Johnson has been blessed with nine children:
Charles W., now a resident of Des Moines; Alice, the wife of E. W. Jones,
also of Des ^loines ; Cora, the wife of M. E. White, of the capital city ,
Ira B., who was superintendent of schools of Cass county and died at the
age of twenty-nine years while serving his second term in that office;
E. M., who is a graduate of the Iowa State College and is now a packing
house inspector for the government at Chicago ; Western L., the govern-
ment meat inspector of the packing houses of Topeka, Kansas; Daisy, liv-
ing in Des Moines; Dora, who is a twin sister of Daisy and now the wife
of F. S. Bone, of Grand River, Iowa ; and Olla, a teacher in the Humboldt
College and a graduate of the Iowa State College of the class of 1906.
All of the children have attended the Iowa State College and the sons have
all graduated therefrom. The eldest is a professor at Still College in Des
Moines and his brother Ira was doing excellent work in the educational
266 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
field when called to his final rest. Following his demise his widow was
elected his successor and has since filled the position. Mr. Johnson has a
family of which he has every reason to be proud, and in their well spent
lives they indicate the careful home training which they received.
Mr. Johnson holds membership in the Christian church, and his has
been an active, useful and well spent life, entitling him to the honor and
high regard which are uniformly accorded him by all who know him.
Starting out in life for himself empty-lianded when a youth in his teens,
he has since made his own way in the world, and the success which has
come to him is the merited reward of his earnest labor and honorable
dealing.
JAMES DILLIX.
Among tile names of men prominent in Story county in years past that
of James Dillin. who departed this life March 27, 1901, at the age of sixty-
one years, occupies a leading place. A resident of the county for more than
thirty years, he became one of its best known citizens and as a farmer and
business man attained a position of influence and responsibility that has
been gained by few in this part of the state.
He was born in JelTerson, New York, and having lost his father at
five years of age, he was taken to the home of a sister in Montana, where
he lived until he reached maturity. There he became acquainted with
ranch life and gained a love for nature and for agricultural pursuits which
was one of his prominent characteristics during his later career. He was
educated in the schools of Montana and received a good mental training
which he further developed by reading and observation. He found time
to learn the carpenter's trade, to which he devoted several years, but the
outbreak of the Civil war interfered with his plans and he enlisted in
Company M. I-'irst Regiment of Colorado Cavalry, in which he served as
corporal for three years, being honorably discharged and mustered out at
Denver. Colorado, October 31, 1864. .\fter the close of the war he came
to Geneseo, Illinois, upon a visit to his mother, who was living at that
place, and opened a store at Green River. Illinois, which he conducted for
aljout a year.
While on a visit to a sister at Letts, Louisa county. Iowa, he met the
lady who became his wife and after his marriage he sold out his business
in Illinois and spent the following winter at Muscatine. Iowa. Having de-
cided to devote his attention to farming, he purchased one hundred and
sixty acres of land in Richland township. Story county, in itS68. Taking
up his residence uy>on his newly acquired place, he set vigorously to work
with such ability that he became the owner of one thousand acres in Storv
county. .After moving to Nevada about 1886, he largely increased his
Mi;. AM) MRS. .lAMKS UII.I.IX
HISTORY OF' STORY COUNTY 269
landed possessions until he became recognized as one of the most worthy
and influential men in the county. He remodeled and improved the family
residence on Locust street, making it one of the most attractive homes in
the city, and he became identified with many business interests, in which
he displayed a rare judgment and foresight, producing gratifying financial
returns.
On the 24th of December, 1867, Mr. Dillin was united in marriage to
Miss Sarah Furnas, a sister of Elwood Furnas, a record of whom appears
elsewhere in this work. Two children came to bless the union of Mr. and
Mrs. Dillin: EKvyn O., now a merchant of McCallsburg, Iowa, who mar-
ried May Loomis and has two children ; and Viola M., the wife of Charles
McCord, a real-estate dealer of Xevada and the mother of four children.
Mr. Dillin from the time of arriving at voting age was an adherent of
the republican party. He never desired or sought political honors, pre-
ferring to devote his attention to his private affairs. He was a valued
member of J. C. Ferguson Post, No. 31, Grand Army of the Republic, and
served as post commander. He was essentially a man of business. Alert,
enterprising, sagacious and clear-sighted, he made few mistakes in his
judgment of men and accomplished many remarkable feats in business
organization and management. He was very positive in his convictions
and having once deliberately made up his mind on any subject, he was
scarcely ever known to change his opinion. He possessed a strong and
pleasing personality and a convincing manner which assisted him very
materially in the advancement, of. his businessL and social relations. Mrs.
Dillin still makes her home* in Nevada Snd is;held in high esteem by a wide
circle of friends and acquaintances in Story county.
JACOB E. ERICKSON.
One of the well known native sons of Story county now engaged in
business in Roland is Jacob E. Erickson. He was born on the 25th of
December, 1870, and is the son of Michael Erickson, who was born in
Norway in 1835. The father came to the United States at the age of four-
teen years with his parents, Jacob and Elizabeth Erickson. The family
located in Story county, Iowa, in 1856, where the father entered one hun-
dred and sixty acres of land, on a portion of which the town of Roland
now stands. He was first married in 1856 to Sarah Wooster, by whom he
had two children : Lizzie, who married Henry Thompson and died about
twenty-five years ago; and Ida A., who became Mrs. O. T. Flanson. For
his second wife Mr. Erickson married Martha Wooster and they became
the parents of four children of whom three still survive, as follows : Olaf,
now a resident of New Mexico; Jacob E., our subject; and Annie May,
who became the wife of J. H. Larson of Roland. The father was a mem-
270 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
ber of the Lutheran churcli and always cast his vote with the republican
party. He was honored by his fellow citizens electing him to nearly all
of the township offices, which he capably filled. He was one of the very
successful agriculturists of his district, acquiring during his life four hun-
dred acres of land adjoining the town of Roland and on forty acres of
which the townsite was platted. He also had two hundred acres of land
in South Dakota and was a stockholder in the Farmers Savings Bank. He
was a very public-spirited man, high-principled and upright in all of his
business transactions. He presented to the town of Roland fifty acres for
a public park and this was but one of his many substantial evidences of
allegiance to the village. He was regarded as a man of incorruptible in-
tegrity, and the community lost a most estimable citizen when he passed
away at the age of seventy-five years.
Jacob E. Erickson is indebted to the district schools of Story county
for his education and when he had acquired such knowledge as he felt
fitted him to begin his business career he laid aside his text-books and as-
sumed the more serious work of life. He remained a member of his
father's household until after his twenty-first year, at which time he began
working for himself. He managed his father's farm for seven years and
then engaged in the grain business, with which he is still actively identified.
He owns a sixty thousand bushel elevator and besides this is a stockholder
and director of the Story County Telephone Company. He also owns one
hundred and sixty acres of land in Hamilton county, Iowa, and one-half
section in Hamlin county. South Dakota.
Ever since age conferred u]ion him tlie right of suffrage Mr. Erickson
has cast his ballot with the republican party. He has always taken an
active interest in municipal matters and is now acting as a member of the
council of Roland. He is a member of the Lutheran church and is un-
married. He is one of the popular and progressive young business men of
Roland, who by means of his close application, unswerving purpose and
industry has met with a more than average degree of success, which his
fellow townsmen feel is justly his right.
D.-\\TFT. AI. GROVE.
Implement dealers of Iowa are well acquainted with the capable and
enterprising gentleman whose name introduces this revievV. Since its or-
ganization he has been secretary and manager of the Iowa Imjilement
Dealers Mutual Insurance Association and has displayed an ability which
meets the hearty api^roval of implement men in all parts of the state. He
is a native of Bedford county, Pennsylvania, having been born May lO,
1856. a son of John L. and Correlia (Giles) Grove. The ancestors of the
family on the paternal side came from Holland in the colonial times and
their descendants assisted the patriots under Washington in freeing this
HISTORY OF' STORY COUNTY 271
country from British domination. John L. Grove was a blacksmith and
followed his trade for some years in the east, coming in 1868 to Carroll
county, Iowa, where he bought land and became well established as a
farmer. He departed this life at the age of seventy years. Politically he
gave his support to the republican party and fraternally he was identified
with the Odd Fellows. The mother of our subject was of Irish descent,
both of her parents having been born on the Emerald isle. She died at
forty-one years of age, when the subject of this review was a lad of eight
years. She was a woman of tnany noble characteristics and a faithful mem-
ber of the Methodist Episcopal church.
The fourth in order of birth in a family of six children, Daniel M.
Grove reared under the parental roof and at twelve years of age came to
Carroll county, Iowa. He attended a private school in the east, continuing
his education in the district schools after arriving in Iowa. Having applied
himself closely to his studies he was able to secure a certificate as a teacher
at si.xteen years of age and taught school for si.xteen years, having charge
of the Coon Rapids schools during the last four years of his experience
as a school-master. However, he decided to seek other avenues for the
exercise of his talents and in ^larch. 1888. he became connected with the
implement business at Coon Rapids, in which he continued for two years.
In 1890 Mr. Grove removed to Nevada, embarking in the same line of
business, which he conducted with marked success for sixteen years. In
1894 he was elected county auditor of Story county and reelected two years
later, filling the position with general acceptance to the voters of the county
for four years. He also served as state secretarj' of the Implement Dealers
Association for several years until 1907. He gained a wide acquaintance
among men in this line of business in the state and was among the origi-
nators of the Iowa Implement Dealers Mutual Insurance Association, which
was chartered by the state in 1903 as an organization by means of which
the implement men might carry their own insurance. Mr. Grove has been
from the start one of the most active workers in this movement and since
1903 has served as secretary and manager of the association. The duties
of his office increased to such an extent that he was obliged to give up his
private business four years ago. He now devotes his entire time to the
insurance association, which has grown remarkably and is one of the most
flourishing organizations of the kind in the country.
In 1877 Mr. Grove was united in marriage to Miss Orra Beadell, who
was born in Lee county, Iowa, and is a daughter of Levi and Polly Beadell.
The father was for many years identified with the agricultural interests of
Linn county but later took up his residence in Lee county. Mr. Grove holds
membership in the Knights of Pythias, and politically gives his allegiance to
the republican party. He served for two terms as member of the city
council but during recent years has not sought public office, as his time has
been fully occupied with business affairs. His career should be highly
encouraging to every young man who has ambition to make an honorable
272 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
record for himself. To attain deserved success requires perseverance, self-
reliance and habits of industry and when these characteristics, as in the
career of Mr. Grove, are united with well established principles of per-
sonal honor and fidelity to all obligations there can be no doubt as to the
result.
JOHN H. LARSON.
It is an old saying that perseverance wins success and in countless cir-
cumstances the truth of this statement has been fully demonstrated. An
additional evidence is presented in the life of John H. Larson, ex-mayor of
Slater and widely recognized as one of the substantial business men in
Story county. As president of a flourishing bank, he has shown his ability
in the field of finances and for years he has been at the head of one of the
leading mercantile establishments of his part of the county.
He was born in Norway, July 30, 1862, a son of Lars and Anna Ilausjen.
The parents emigrated to the United States in 1866 and spent two or three
years near Lisbon, Illinois, then removing to Polk county, Iowa, but in
the fall of the same year took up their residence north of Ames in Story
county. Two years later Mr. Larson rented a farm in the northeast part
of the county and after cultivating this place for four years purchased a
farm in Hardin county, upon which he lived until his retirement to Slater.
After the death of his wife he look up his home with a daughter at Hux-
ley, where he now lives.
John H. Larson came to America with his parents when four vears of
age and remained at home, securing such education as was available in the
district schools until he arrived at the age of fifteen or sixteen years. Hav-
ing a natural inclination for mercantile rather than agricultural life, he se-
cured a position in a store at Sheldahl, continuing in that establishment for
eleven years. He became well acquainted with mercantile affairs and ac-
quired a solid foundation for a successful business career. Having decided
to begin upon his own account, he came to Slater in 1889 and purchased a
half-interest in the lumber business of A. K. Ersland. the firm assuming
the title of Ersland & Larson. Later he acquired his partner's interest and
the business has since been conducted under his own name, being now the
leading mercantile concern in Slater. Mr. Larson was one of the organ-
izers of the Farmers Savings Bank at Slater and was elected a member of
the board of directors, the Hon. Oley Nelson being chosen as president.
After several years Mr. Nelson resigned and Mr. Larson was selected as
his successor, a position which he has filled with the highest credit to him-
self and to the great satisfaction of the officers and stockholders of the
institution.
HISTORY OF' STORY COUNTY 273
On the 28th of December, 1898, Mr. Larson was united in marriage to
Miss Ella Walker, a daughter of Torkel Walker, a native of Norway, who
came to America when a young man and passed thirty-three years of his
life in Polk and Story counties. He is a carpenter by trade but has also
successfully engaged in farming and is now living in Slater. Unto Mr.
and Mrs. Larson three children have been born : Cecil Anselm, Leslie Tru-
man and Miriam Lucile.
Mr. Larson gives his adherence to the republican party and his voice
is often heard in its councils in his part of the county. He has served many
times as a member of the town council and also for eight or ten years as
mayor of the town, being recognized as one of the most efficient executive
officers the town has known. He is a valued member of Slater Lodge,
No. 384, L O. O. F., and he and his wife are connected with the Rebekahs
and the Lutheran church. He is a stanch friend of education and always
lends his aid to the public schools. As a citizen he is patriotic, prompt and
true to every obligation and as a man he is held in the highest honor and
esteem by all classes.
CAPTAIN THOMAS CLIFTON McCALL.
For many years one of the most distinguished citizens of Story county.
Captain Thomas Clifton McCall, now deceased, gained a reputation for
enterprise, sound judgment and integrity which has been accorded few men
in this part of the state. In both private and public affairs he was eminently
successful, gaining a fortune and at the same time proving by his useful
and honorable life a constant source of inspiration to those with whom he
was associated.
He was born in Ross county, Ohio, September 4, 1827, a son of Samuel
W. and Ann (Clifton) McCall. The father was born in Kentucky in
1792 and the mother in Ross county, Ohio, in 1795. In his early manhood
Samuel W. McCall was a soldier in the war of 1812 and was wounded at
the battle of Maguauga, which occurred about the time of Hull's sur-
render. He came to Iowa and located in Polk county, where he died in
1864, his wife having passed away in Ross county, Ohio, in 1833. He
was a son of Samuel McCall, who was born about 1750 in Maryland and
was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. He was drowned in Licking river,
Kentucky, in 1795. Our subject's maternal grandfather, Thomas Clifton,
who was born in South Carolina about 1740, fought under General Na-
thaniel Greene in the war for independence and later settled in Ross county.
Ohio, where he died about 1830.
In 1836 Thomas Clifton McCall came with his father to I'.urlington,
Iowa, where they remained during the summer, removing in the fall to
Fulton county, Illinois, where he lived on a farm for ten years. At the
274 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
age of nineteen he began teaching, having charge of the first school that
was opened east of the Des Moines river in Polk county. After a short
experience as a schoolmaster he embarked in ihc mercantile business at
Lafayette, Polk county, in parincrship with A. Y. Hull, continuing for
three years, when he became the pioneer merchant of Rising Sun. in the
same county. From the beginning he had shown a decided ability in busi-
ness affairs and in 1855 he entered the real-estate business at Des Moines,
coming to Nevada three years later, where he dealt quite extensively in land
for many years, becoming the owner of about three thousand acres in
Story county. He was a man of quick discernment and wide observation
and as time passed he became remarkably proficient in knowledge concern-
ing current events, especially those of public and political interest. In
1861 he was chosen to represent Story county in the state legislature and
served in the regular and special sessions of that year and also in 1862.
this being a period of unusual importance on account of the Civil war.
In October, 1862, Mr. McCall proflfered his services to the government
and was sent to the front as quartermaster of the Thirty-second Iowa In-
fantry with the commission of lieutenant and continued with his regiment
in the field. He was appointed by President Lincoln assistant quarter-
master of volunteers with the rank of captain, March 22, 1864, and served
in that capacity until November 27, 1865, when he received his honorable
discharge. He performed the arduous duties devolving upon him during
these trying years of the war with absolute fidelity and his army record was
a source of just pride to himself and is a splendid heritage for posterity.
After resuming peaceful pursuits he was, in 1881, again sent to the legis-
lature from Story county, being reelected in 1883, and was state senator,
representing Boone and Story counties in 1892 at the time of his death.
He was one of the most active and efficient representatives that this county
has ever sent to the general assembly and by his efforts and personal in-
fluence accomplished much work that has been of special benefit to the
county and state.
Captain McCall was three times married. By his first marriage he had
one son, John A., who is now practicing law at Des Moines. His second
wife was Mary A. Boynton and by this union three children were bom :
Minnie Ellen, now Mrs. A. C. Cronenwctt, of Monrovia, California; Fred
C, a record of whom appears elsewhere in this work ; and Fdward M., a
practicing attorney of Nevada. The third wife of Captain McCall bore
the maiden name of Clara Kennedy. She is now living in Nevada but the
son bom of this union died at the age of five years.
Captain McCall passed away .Xui^nist 11. 1892, being then sixty-five
years of age and an acknowledged leader in the business and financial
circles of Story county. He early realizes the value of industry and perse-
verance and his life was a remarkable exemplification of those principle-
carried to a legitimate conclusion. He was generous in iu's judgment and
friendly toward every cause calculated to advance the public interest and in
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 275
numberless ways contributed to the welfare of his fellowmen. For almost
fifty years he was a member of the Presbyterian church and was seldom
absent from religious service when circumstances made it possible for him
to attend. He became an Odd Fellow in 1853, joining the order at Des
Moines and representing it a number of times in the Grand Lodge of the
state. He was also a valued member of the Grand Army of the Republic
and was one of the best friends the old soldiers of Story county have
known. The death of Mr. jMcCall deprived the community of one of its
most loved and respected citizens, one who was eminently successful in his
efl:'orts to make the world better and whose memory will long be revered
bv those who knew him.
CLARK CHAMBERS.
Among the business men of Collins, Clark Chambers occupies an honor-
able place, having won his way through many obstacles. Today he is recog-
nized as one of the thoroughly substantial citizens of the community and has
the satisfaction of knowing that he has gained his present position through
his own unremitting diligence and sound judgment. He was born near De-
catur, Illinois, November 15, 1873, a son of James A. and Mary (Clark)
Chambers. The parents were both born in Ohio and were married in that
state, subsequently removing to Illinois. The mother passed away in 1878
and the father has since been twice married. His present wife was Miss
Caroline Smith, whom he married in Guernsey county, Ohio, and they are
now living upon a farm in Tuscarawas county, that state.
At fifteen years of age Clark Chambers began his battle with the world.
Going to Bloomington, Illinois, he worked as a farm laborer for a year and
then returned to Ohio, where he was employed for two years in a sawmill.
Once more starting westward, he reached Collins, Iowa, where for four
years and four months he was employed by Charles Fish, an extensive stock
feeder of this section. Not having seen enough of the world, Mr. Cham-
bers decided to visit the great west and accordingly he took a trip through
the Dakotas, Idaho, Utah and the Pacific northwest, working at various oc-
cupations as opportunity presented. He was absent for two years and in
Februa^\^ 1902, returned to Collins, with a mind richly supplied with ex-
perience which has been to him of inestimable value. Soon after reaching
Collins he became connected with the meat and provision business, with
which he has ever since been identified, being now a member of the firm
of George W. Baldwin & Company, general merchants, also handling meat
and provisions upon a large scale.
On the 20th of May, 1902, Mr. Chambers was united in marriage to
Miss Mary Wood, of Des Moines, and by this union five children have been
276 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
born, four of whom are now living, namely: Irene, Laurence C, Gerald and
Marjorie.
Mr. Chambers started out in life entirely upon his own resources as a
boy and difificulties served but to spur him to renewed effort, strengthening
his will and developing a fearlessness and an indomitable spirit of self-
reliance that are among his prominent characteristics. He has attained a
position of comparative financial independence, although only thirty-eight
years of age, and can still look forward to many years of activity and use-
fulness. Fraternally he is a valued member of Fervent Lodge, No. 513,
A. F. & A. M., and in political belief he adheres to the republican party.
lAY A. KING.
Jay A. King, of Nevada, now in the grain and lumber business and
formerly county treasurer of Story county, is in the best sense of the wonl
a self-made man. Coming to this county forty-two years ago, he forged
his way through many obstacles to a position of financial ease, at the
same time gaining the enduring respect and esteem of the people of the
county.
He was born at .\kron, Ohio, May 28, 1845, a son of Dr. John E. and
Ann (Jackson) King, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter
of England. The father had meager opportunities for education in his
early years, but this handicap was largely overcome by close application
to home study after he grew to manhood. He began his business career
in the mercantile pursuits at Akron, removing in 1855 to New Lisbon.
Wisconsin, where he farmed and conducted a shoe store for several years.
In 1861 he came west, taking up his home at Eldora, Hardin county, Iowa,
and, having decided upon a professional career, he matriculated at Hahne-
mann Medical College. Chicago, from which he was later graduated. He
returned to Eldora, wlierc lie has ever since continued in the practice of
his jjrofession. He was very successful from the start and as the years
passed became recognized as one of the leading physicians of the county.
He is still in practice, although eighty-five years of age, being almost as
strong physically and mentally as ever in his life. He is a man of un-
usual intelligence, generous and broad-minded, a constant student of books
and current events, and a stanch friend of education. He is a good
musician and for many years took a ]>roniinent jiart in musical affairs of
the church and the coninnmity. Fraternally he is identified with the Ma-
sonic order and politically has been a supporter of the republican partv
ever sinre its organization. He is greatly esteemed by his professional
brethren and for two years was president of the Iowa H(5meopathic Meil-
ical Association, being now :\n hiinnrary member of that body. The mother
of our subject came to this country from England with her parents, who
JAY A. Krxr;
HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY 279
settled at Akron, Ohio. She passed away in 1863, at the age of forty-five
years.
There were si.x children in the family of Dr. and Mrs. King: ]. A.,
the subject of this review; George H., in the fruit growing and jewelry
business in Colorado ; Ina, deceased ; Elizabeth, who married George
Brookins, a veteran of the Civil war, now living at St. Paul, Minnesota;
Oliver ]., a farmer living retired at Zearing, Iowa; and John E., engaged
in the publishing business at St. Paul.
Jay A. King was educated in the public schools of Akron, Ohio, New
Lisbon, Wisconsin, and Eldora, Iowa. He taught school for two years and
at the age of eighteen, in the summer of 1863, enlisted at Eldora in Com-
pany H, Ninth Iowa Cavalry. He attained the rank of quartermaster ser-
geant and was engaged principally in scout duty with small detachments,
his regiment being assigned to that branch of the service. Ha continued
faithfully until February, 1866, when he was honorably discharged at Dav-
enport, Iowa. After laying aside the accoutrements of war, appreciating
the importance of further educational training, he took a course in a Chi-
cago business college, after which he became a bookkeeper in the pipe
department of the Crane Manufacturing Company of Chicago.
After a year's experience in this line Mr. King returned to Iowa and
worked for a few months on a farm, teaching school the following winter.
In 1868 he came to Iowa Center and entered the employ of the general
mercantile firm of Baldwin & Maxwell as bookkeeper. His ability being
soon recognized, he was after the first year made credit man and busi-
ness manager. The firm was one of the remarkable concerns of those
times, controlling a business of three hundred and fifty thousand dollars
a year, although the house was located in a town of four hundred inhabi-
tants. Mr. King continued for seven- years at Iowa Center, becoming
widely acquainted in the county which he had adopted as his permanent
home. In 1875 h^ was elected county treasurer and continued in the office
for three terms. Upon assuming the duties of the treasurership he removed
to Nevada, where he has ever since lived. After retiring from public office
he associated with Otis Briggs in the Farmers Bank, conducting its affairs
for eight years with great success. After a vacation of a few years he
entered the grain and lumber business in 1889 at Nevada with O. L. Dun-
kelbarger under the title of Dunkelbarger & King and has so continued to
the present time. He was for six years president of the Iowa Grain Deal-
ers Association and is now president of the Western Grain Dealers Mutual
Fire Insurance Association, a position which he has held for two years
past. He has been eminently successful in his various business enterprises
and has for years been known as one of the most prosperous and influen-
tial men in this part of the state.
In 1880 Mr. King was united in marriage to Miss Lillic .A. Day, of
Ohio, a daughter of E. G. Day, and to them one child was born, Day E.,
now superintendent of the light and heating plant at Park City, Utah, and
280 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
the father of two children. The mother having departed this hfe in 1881,
Mr. King was united in marriage in 1889 to Mrs. Elizabeth (Severns)
Coggshall, the widow of M. Coggshall. Mrs. King was the mother of one
son by her first husband, Fred M., now a theatrical manager. She is a
member of the Presbyterian church and a leader in the social circles of
the community.
Mr. King is identified with the various Masonic bodies, including the
Shrine, and also with the Knights of Pythias. He is a member of Jason
D. Ferguson Post, G. A. R. and in politics gives his support to the repub-
lican party, having cast his first ballot for Abraham Lincoln as president
of the United States. He has served most acceptably as member of the
city council several times, as member of the board of trustees of the pub-
lic library and also as president of the board of education. As a public
officer he has been conscientious, efficient and thoroughly reliable, setting
an example in the discharge of his duties well worthy of emulation. He
has never sought to advance himself at the expense of others and as a
generous, liberal-minded and progressive citizen he has fairly earned the
honorable jilacc he occupies in the community.
OLE B. OLSOX.
The stock-breeders have been of inestimable benefit to farmers and in-
directly to the whole country, adding vastly to the value of domestic animals
and making the business of the farmer, when properly conducted, highly
profitable. Ole P). Olson of Story county should be named in the class that
is accomplishing this good work, being a successful stock-breeder whose
opinions are an authority on shorthorn cattle and Duroc Jersey hogs. He
was born in Union township. Story county. June 17, 1872, son of Brit and
Sarah (Sandcno) Olson, both of whom were born in Norway. They were
married in their native country and after their emigration to the United
States became residents of Union township, Story county, Iowa, where the
father engaged in farming. He departed this life in 1882. but the mother is
now living with her daughter. Mrs. F. H. Sheldalil. i!i Storv countv.
Ole H. Olson was the youngest member of the faniilv .-in<! was ten vcars
of age when his father died. The mother, however, bravely kept her chil-
dren together until they were grown up. The subject of tiiis review at-
tended the district schools and assisted in the support of the faniilv until
after arriving at twenty-one years of age. when he began fanning on his
own account on rented land. At the age of twenty-four he purchased one
hundred and thirty acres on section 2, Palestine township, which he culti-
vated for seven years and then sold, buying his present farm of one hundred
and sixty acres on section 26 in 1902. He has made manv improvements,
rebuilding the residence, setting out trees, etc.. so that he now lias one of
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 281
the most beautiful farms in his section. He makes a specialty of breeding
thoroughbred shorthorn cattle and Duroc Jersey hogs and has succeeded in
raising some of the choicest animals of the kinds named that have yet been
bred in this county.
On the 20th of February. 1895, ^^^'- Olson was united in marriage to
Miss Martha S. Kalsem, a daughter of John \'. Kalscm. a record of whom
appears elsewhere in this work. Six children have been born to this union,
tive of whom are now living, namely: Elmer J., who is now attending the
Hu.xlev high school ; John F., also a student in the high school ; Mollie S.
and Ollie M., twins ; and Alilford S.
Mr. Olson and wife are members of the Lutheran church, of which he
is secretary and one of its liberal supporters. Ever since arriving at voting
age he has adhered to the republican party, believing that in so doing he is
best advancing the interests of the entire country. A sincere friend of edu-
cation, he is a member of the school board, upon which he has served for
several years past. The life of Mr. Olson is one of great activity and the
success he has attained is the result of his own unwavering and well directed
industrv.
WILLIAM DODDS.
William Dodds, living on section 33, Franklin township, general farm-
ing interests claiming his attention, was bom in Boone county. Iowa, De-
cember 29, 1863, and was not yet two years of age w-hen his parents, James
and Catharine (Kegley) Dodds, came with their family to Story county.
The father was a native of Ohio and the mother of Pennsylvania. She
came to Boone county, Iowa, with her parents in her girlhood days, while
James Dodds arrived when a young man of about twenty-one years. They
were married on the farm where the birth of their son William occurred,
and they spent their last years in Colorado, where the death of Mr. Dodds
occurred in 1905, when he was seventy-two years of age, while his wife
passed away in 1906 at the age of seventy years. Throughout his active
life he devoted his energies to farming and carpentering and was the owner
of four hundred and forty acres of valuable Iowa land which he sold ere
his removal to Colorado. His family numbered eight children : Martha M.,
the wife of Ed Gilbert, of Salina, Kansas; William; Guy, a resident of
Washington township, this county ; Thomas, of Colorado ; James, also liv-
ing in Washington township ; Belle, the wife of James Reynolds, of Gil-
bert, Iowa; Fannie, of Lamar, Colorado; and Gertrude, the wife of Alfred
Downer, also of Lamar.
Brought by his parents to Story county when less than two years of age,
William Dodds has since lived in Franklin township, where he was reared
to the occupation of farming, remaining at home with his parents until
282 HISTORY OF STORY COL'XTY
his marriage, when he started out in hfe on his own account. He is today
the owner of two hundred and eighty acres of rich and valuable land, sit-
uated two and a half miles east of Gilbert on sections i and 12, Franklin
township. He removed to that place immediately after his marriage and
there resided until about fcrur years ago, when he came to his present home
on section 23' Franklin township, having purchased the property in 1905.
This is a tract of land of one hundred and twenty acres, and in addition he
also owns the former place. Both farms have been well improved by Mr.
Dodds who now rents his land on sections i and 12. His present farm is
situated about a mile north of College, and is devoted to the cultivation of
the crops best adapted to soil and climate.
In 1894 Mr. Dodds was married to Miss Harriet Allen, who was born
August 16, 1871, on the farm where she now lives, a daughter of O. D.
.Alien, mentioned elsewliere in this volume. They have three children:
Bernice, Mildred and Galen.
Mr. Dodge is a republican and has held some road and school offices
but cares little for political or official preferment. Fraternally he is con-
nected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and both he and his
wife are nitmhcrs of tlic Rebckah lodge. He has a wide acquaintance in
Story county where almost his entire life has been passed and where his
many good qualities have gained him the warm regard of those with whom
he has been associated. The able management of his business affairs con-
stitutes the basis of his success which has classed him with the substantial
agriculturists of Franklin township.
ELWOOD FURNAS:
Ehvood Furnas, deceased, who for more than thirty years was promi-
nently identified with agricultural and business interests in Story county,
will be remembered as one of the ablest and most public-spirited men the
county has known. His death, which occurred December 31, T902, when he
was sixty-two years of age, was regarded as one of the severest losses in
the history of this region, and there is no reason for doubting that tli'
beneficial effects of the work which he set in motion will be felt for many
years to come.
He was a native of Montgomery county, Ohio, born February 22. 1840.
The family is of English ancestry, the first member of whom there is any
record being John Furnas, who was born at Standing Rock, Cumberland-
shire, England, in 1736. He was a peer of the realm, and a large land-
owner. He married Mary Wilkinson in the Friend's Meeting House at
Standing Stone, in February, 1763, and they came to America, landing at
Charleston, South Carolina, where they spent the remainder of their days.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 283
Among noted descendants of this worthy couple in America may be named
ex-Governor Robert Furnas, of Nebraska; Sarah Furnas Wells, M. D.,
author of "Four Years Travel Around the World," and Rev. Newton Fur-
nas, a distinguished clergj^man of Ohio. Benjamin Furnas, the father of
our subject, was a lineal descendant of John and Mary (Wilkinson) Fur-
nas. He was for many years identified with agricultural interests in Ohio
and subsequently came to this state, where he continued until his death.
Elwood Furnas was reared in the parental home and gained his pre-
liminary education in the country schools of Ohio. He was sufficiently ad-
vanced in his studies to become a teacher, but after teaching a part of a term
for a brother teacher, he abandoned the ferrule for a more congenial occu-
pation in the fields. He came with his father to Louisa county, Iowa, in
1857, and after renting land of the latter for some years, he purchased a
tract of land in Richland township. Story county,, upon which he established
his home in 1870. He applied himself with unusual energy and ability, ac-
cumulating more land until he became the owner of a beautiful farm of eight
hundred acres and also one of the leading cattlemen in this part of the state.
Fie made a close study of agriculture and was widely regarded as an author-
ity on that subject, being one of the prime movers in various organizations
that have assisted in a marked degree in the advancement of the permanent
interests of all branches of farming.
On the loth of February, 1859, Mr. Furnas was united in marriage to
Miss Mary Elizabeth Sunderland, who was born on a farm in Montgomery
county, Ohio, February 20, 1842, a daughter of Richard and Eleanor Sun-
derland. She is a descendant of Captain Richard Sunderland of Revolu-
tionary fame. Her father was a prominent farmer of Montgomery county,
and he and his wife have passed to their reward. No children were bom
to Mr. and Mrs. Furnas, but they made a home for si.x children and par-
tially reared them.
Air. Furnas was reared in the faith of the Society of Friends. He was
identified with the Masonic order, and politically adhered to the republican
party from the time of reaching his majority. He was never a seeker for
public office but he filled various positions in the township, always dis-
charging his duties with a fidelity that met the unanimous approval of the
taxpayers. He was an earnest advocate of temperance and was widely known
throughout the country on account of his prominence in advancing the farm-
ing interests. He was president of the National Farmers Alliance, the Story
County Farmers Institute and the Farmers Progression Reading Circle ;
vice president of the Farmers Fire and Lightning Association of Story
county ; secretary of the State Farmers Mutual Protective Association and
of the local alliance; and was one of the honorary members of the Commer-
cial Travelers Fair, which was held in Madison Square Garden, New York
city, December 16, 1896. A man of winning manner, generous in disposi-
tion, he made a host of friends, and in the course of a life of unusual activ-
284 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
ity he assisted in advancing very materially the comfort and happiness of
those with whom he associated. He was thoroughly progressive and always
ready to assist a fellow traveler less fortunate than himself, his greatest
happiness being found in service for others.
OSMOND J. \ ILAND.
Although he began as a school teacher and attained an enviable reputa-
tion in that calling, Osmond J. \iland, of Slater, felt attracted to a business
career and embarked in the furniture and undertaking business, in which
he has been highly successful. He is a native of Story county, born Sep-
tember 8, 1871, and is a son of Knute and Carrie (Fronsdahl) Viland, both
natives of Norway. They were reared and married in that country and came
to America in 1866, their destination being Story county, Iowa. The father
purchased land in Palestine township, about one and one-half miles south
of Huxley, and started upon what promised to be a highly prosperous ca-
reer. In 1873, however, he passed away in the midst of a life of usefulness,
leaving a widow and three children. The mother bravely took up the re-
sponsibility of rearing her family and continued upon the farm until about
a month before her death, when she removed to Slater. She died January
20, igoo, leaving the memory of an unselfish character that will long be re-
remembered by those who knew her.
Osmond J. Viland was reared upon the home farm and assisted as he
grew u]) in j)rovi(Iing for the wants of the family. He received his early
education in the district schools and later attended the State Nonnal Col-
lege at Cedar I-'alls, Iowa, also the United Church Seminary, at Minnea-
polis, Minnesota. After thoroughly preparing himself he taught school
for five or six years, gaining a reputation as one of the most promising
teachers in the county, in iS^y) ho joined .Andrew Maland in the inircha-r
of the furniture business at Halverson Brothers at Slater, the style of the
new firm being Maland & X'iland. On March i, 1907. he acquired his part-
ner's interest and has since conducted the business independently. He is a
licensed embalmer and has acquired an extensive patronage both in the sale
of furniture and as an undertaker.
On the 22d of June, 1904, Mr. Viland was united in marriage to Mis^
Inger Askland. of Slater, a daughter of Colhen .Askland. who was born in
Norway and emigrated to the United States in the same year as the X'iland
family, stopping for some time in the state of Illinois. Finally he located
in Story county and he is now one of tiie successful farmers of Palestine
townshij). Unto -Mr. and Mrs. X'iland three children have been born: Clare
Kenneth. Blanche Celestinc and Lillian Margaret.
Mr. \'iland gives his support to the republican party and has served in
official positions for eight years past to the general satisfaction of tlie pco-
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 285
pie of his town and township. He and his wife are faithful members of the
Norwegian Lutheran church. He is secretary of the church and also super-
intendent of the Sunday school, showing an ability in church and Sunday
school work that has greatly assisted in promoting the best interests of the
community. He is a man of fine address and superior talents, moreover,
possessing the laudable desire to advance the welfare and happiness of
others, and he justly ranks as a leader in his locality.
OSTEN T. MOLDE.
The agricultural interests of Milford township find a worthy represen-
tative in Osten T. Molde, who is now living on section 2},. His record is
that of a self-made man for he not only started out in life empty-handed
but also came to America without knowledge of the language or customs
of the people. It was necessary that he familiarize himself with the speech
of the American nation as well as to become acquainted with the methods
of doing business here. Resolution and energy, however, have enabled him
to work his way upward and he is now the owner of two hundred acres
constituting one of the valuable and desirable farms of Milford township.
Mr. Molde is a native of the land of the midnight sun, his birth having
occurred at Saude Ryffilke, Norway, on the 28th of November, 1854. His
parents were Thormod and Rayna Molde, the latter now living at Saude
at the advanced age of ninety-four years, her birth having occurred April
13, 1817. The father, who was born March 14, 1807, died in 1857. He
was a farmer by occupation and thus provided for his family which num-
bered four sons and three daughters.
Osten T. Molde was the youngest, and the only son who came to the
United States. He remained a resident of his native land until about
twenty-seven years of age, when he sailed for the United States and made
his way direct to Nevada, Iowa. He was not acquainted with a single per-
son here and he could not speak the English language. He had only sixty-
five dollars at the time of his arrival but he possessed what is better than
capital — firm purpose, laudable ambition and unfaltering integrity. He has
since resided in Story county and has spent most of the time in Milford
township. He had previously learned the carpenter's trade in his native
land and after coming to this county he worked for a time at his trade and
also was employed at farm labor by the month. Following his marriage he
began farming on his own account on rented land and so continued for five
years, during which period he carefully saved his earnings until he was en-
abled to purchase eighty acres of his present farm which is situated on sec-
tion 23, Milford township. He has added to this a tract of one hundred
and twenty acres and now has an excellent farm property of two hundred
acres upon which he has made good improvements, adding to it all of the
286 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
accessories and conveniences of a model farm of the twentieth century. His
methods of tilling the soil are practical, and his work at all times is charac-
terized by a progressiveness that protluces excellent results.
On the 13th of December, 1883, Mr. Molde was united in marriage to
Miss Gusta Jacobson, daughter of Johannes antl Barbara (.Teig) Jacobson.
She was born in Norway. April 10. 1863, and with her parents came to the
United Slates, settling first in Minnesota but removing a few months later
to Story county, Iowa. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Molde have been born seven
children: Julia, who is now enj,fage(l in dressmaking in Roland; Theodore;
Emma ; Gertie ; Otis ; Mabel ; and Gladys.
The parents are members of the Lutheran church of Roland and are
well known in their part of the county where they have gained many friends.
Mr. Molde certainly deserves much credit for what he has accomplished.
He has never regarded obstacles or difficulties as something to cause failure
but rather as an impetus for renewed effort. He has worked earnestly
and untiringly and there have been few idle hours in his life. Gradually,
therefore, he has advanced and is now one of the substantial agriculturists
of his adopted country.
J. 11. DUKKOUGHS.
Realizing at the outset that advancement in business must depend upon
close application, earnest purpose, unfaltering diligence and reliability, J. H.
Burroughs has employed those qualities to reach the creditable place which
he now occupies as one of the leading grocers of Nevada. He was born in
Lake View, New Jersey, April 17, 1850, a son of George F. and Sarali
(Major) Burroughs. The father was born in Cayuga county, New York,
and became a foundryman, following that business until about fifty years of
age. after which he turned his attention to farming. In 1868 he removed
with his family to Cedar county, Iowa, and there carried on agricultural
pursuits but retired in his later years. His last days were passed in Salem.
South Dakota, where he died in 1907 in his ninetieth year. His wife, a na-
tive of New Jersey, passed away in Tipton. Iowa, in 1898. at the age of
seventy-seven years.
I. H. Burroughs, the fifth in order of birth in their family of twelve
children, resided in New Jersey until eighteen years of age. when he ac-
companied his parents on their removal to Tipton, Cedar county, where he
resided until i8g2. In that year he came to Nevada, where he has since inailc
his home. For two years he worked in a foundry in New Jersey and Phila-
delphia under tlie direction of his father and after going to Tipton was em
ployed in connection with the timber business for four years. He afterward
went ujion the farm and not only devoted his attention to the labors of the
field but also engaged in teaching school U<r three terms. He likewise spent
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 287
four years at the court house in the position of deputy auditor and at dif-
ferent times engaged in clerking in stores in Tipton until 1890, when he
entered into partnership with W. E. EHjah, with whom he was thus asso-
ciated for two years.
On the expiration of that period Mr. Burroughs came to Nevada and
purchased a grocery stock, conducting the store for two years, when he sold
out. He spent the winter of 1895-6 at Eureka Springs, Arkansas, but in
the spring returned to Nevada and purchased a furniture store, which he
conducted for two and a half years. In 1898 he came to his present loca-
tion, trading his furniture stock for a stock of groceries in the Ringheim
block, where he carries a large and well selected line of goods, while his
earnest desire to please his patrons and his honorable business methods are
salient features in the success which is attending him. In addition to his
grocery stock he owns three dwellings in Nevada and a farm near Crooks-
ton, Minnesota, embracing a quarter section of land.
In 1883 Mr. Burroughs was married to Miss Mary Ryder, a native of
Tipton, and a daughter of Christian and Rachel Ryder. Mr. Burroughs
belongs to the Masonic lodge, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and
the ^lethodist Episcopal church — associations which indicate much of the
nature of his interests and the principles that govern his conduct. Per-
sistent, earnest labor has brought him success, and tangible evidence of his
active and well spent life is found in his business and real-estate interests
in Nevada.
J. H. RIDDLESBARGER.
Prominent among the business men of Nevada is J. H. Riddlesbarger,
for twenty-five years past connected with the poultry business and also ac-
tively identified with other lines. He came to Nevada from Franklin Grove,
Lee county, Illinois, in 1885, and was associated with A. F. Wingert, under
title of Wingert & Riddlesbarger, the firm soon becoming widely known on
account of its extensive operations in poultry. In 1900, the firm consolidated
with Boardman Brothers and continued the business for three years, when
Mr. Wingert and Boardman Brothers retired. Mr. Riddlesbarger and C. M.
Morse then purchased the Boardman Brothers packing house, the name of
the firm being changed to the Nevada Poultry Company. At the close of
the year Mr. Morse withdrew and C. W. Harris was admitted as a partner,
the title under which the business was conducted still remaining unchanged.
The Nevada Poultry Company handles annually half a million pounds
of dressed and packed poultry, which is shipped principally to eastern and
European markets. The company has built up an enviable reputation on
account of the excellence of its products and the reliable business principles
upon which its affairs are conducted. Mr. Riddlesbarger has from the
288
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
beginning been a leading factor in its management. During his residence
in Nevada he has also been ])romincntly connected with the live stock
market, purchasing extensively for packing houses at Chicago. In addition
to the interests mentioned, he is engaged in farming and is the owner of a
well improved place of two hundred and tifty-tive acres in Grant township.
He is recognized as a progressive man of large enterprise and public spirit,
and he has assisted very materially in enhancing the prosperity not only of
Story county but of a much wider region in Iowa.
JOHN M. CHRISM.VN.
John M. Chrisman, a son of James A. and .Amanda J. (Fairbanks)
Chrisman, was born in Bureau county, Illinois, on the i6th of February,
1867. The father was a native of Ohio, being born in Highland county,
and was a son of George Chrisman, who came to the United States from
Germany with his parents when a small boy. The mother was born in
Posey county, Indiana, a daughter of Alexander Fairbanks, a cabinet-maker
by trade, who was born in Massachusetts and belonged to the F'airbanks
family of that state. Mr. and Mrs. Chrisman were married in Bureau
county, Illinois, and were the parents of four children, who are as follows :
Emma, who became the wife of Joseph Burton of Lincoln, Nebraska;
Catherine, the widow of Fred Conover, of Bradford, Illinois; John M., our
subject; and William David, of Bradford, Illinois. The father always fol-
lowed the vocation of farming, in which he was very successful. The pa-
rents were members of the Methodist Episcopal church, in which the father
was a very active worker until his death in 1899. The mother is still liv-
ing at an advanced age and makes her home in Bureau county, Illinois.
Mr. Chrisman spent his younger years in a manner very similar to the
majority of boys who are reared in the country. He attended the district
schools to the age of fifteen years and for three years at Princeton. (Illi-
nois) high school. He also took a course at the university in X'alparai.so,
Indiana, where he spent three years. At the age of twenty-one years he
assumed the entire responsibility and control of the home farm, serving in
this capacity for three years. At the expiration of that period he became
a landowner, jiurchasing eighty acres of land in I'.ureau county. wJiich he
operated for nine years. In 1901 lie came to Iowa and houglit two hun-
dred acres of land on section t^2. Richland township. Story county, where
he continues to reside. Mr. Chrisman has always made a specialty of feed-
ing and raising cattle and hogs and in this he has met with success and sub-
stantial reward. He has very largely confined his efforts in this direction
to shorthorn cattle and Poland China hogs.
In 1892 was solemnized the marriage of Mr. Chrisman and Miss Addie
Reed, a daughter of Hudson and Saraji (I'lHtton) Reed, the former a native
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 289
of Ohio and the latter of lUinois. They have become the parents of two
children: Ruth and Gertrude, both of whom still reside at home.
The parents both attend the Methodist Episcopal church, in which Mr.
Chrisman is a very active worker. He has always been a ver>- public-
spirited man and takes an active interest in politics, his support being given
to the republican party. He is now and has been for the past six years
one of the township trustees, is also a member of the school board, of which
he was at one time treasurer, and in addition to these two offices he is serv-
ing on the township central committee and is a director of the First National
Bank of Nevada.
Both the public and private life of Mr. Chrisman has at all times been
such that he has won and held the esteem and respect of those with whom
he comes in contact in either a business or social way. He has been success-
ful in the vocation he chose to follow, but it has been a steady progression
every step of which has been won and held by his business ability and close
application to the course which he had marked out for himself.
NICHOLAS SIMSER.
Nicholas Simser, who for nearly thirty years past has been engaged in
the blacksmith business at Nevada, Iowa, and at the present time serving
as member of the city council, is a native of Canada. He was born on a
farm, November 3, 1843, and is of good Teutonic ancestry on the paternal
side, being the son of John and Martha (Woods) Simser. The father was
a native of New York and the mother of Canada. His grandfather, John
Simser, adhered to the British cause at the time of the Revolutionary war
and fought in the army of the king, seeking safety in Canada after the
close of the war, where he spent the remainder of his life. The father of
our subject passed his entire life in Canada, where he engaged successfully
in farming. He died at an advanced age when the subject of this review
was a young man. The mother departed this life in 1876 at the age of
eighty years. Her father also fled to Canada at the close of the Revolution,
having been an ardent sympathizer of the British. Mr. and Mrs. Simser
were both members of the Episcopal church. There were thirteen children
in the family, the first two being girls and the ne.xt seven, boys, Nicholas be-
ing the seventh of the latter in order of birth.
He was reared on the home farm and gained his early education in the
country schools, also being taught by his father the value of labor. After
attaining manhood he learned the blacksmith's trade, and in 1865, believing
that more favorable opportunities were presented under the flag of the re-
public, he came to the United States, his first employment being upon a
bridge which was in course of erection at Oshkosh, Wisconsin. After com-
pleting that work he worked for four years in a blacksmith shop and then
290 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
opened a shop of his own at Stockbridge, Wisconsin, which he conducted
for six years. In tlie spring of 1876 he was allured by the mines to Dead-
wood, South Dakota, remaining in the Black Hills for four years, a large
part of which time he spent eagerly searching for the yellow metal. He
was moderately successful in his quest but not finding a fortune he returned
to Wisconsin, where he was married, and in May, 1881, he came to Nevada,
Iowa, and entered the employment of W'illiam Gates. Having decided to
make this place his prominent home, he purchased a shop that stood on the
corner now occupied by the Peoples Saving Bank, and, his work prosper-
ing, he built the shop which he has since owned and which is located a few
doors north of the spot of his original establisment. By close attention to
his business he has secured a large patronage and now enjoys a pros-
perity, which is the result of many years of applied energy.
In 1881 Mr. Simser was united in marriage to Miss Etta B. Miller,
who was born near Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, May 14, 1861. Two children
have blessed this union : Jay Adam, who was born March 8, 1888, and is
now telephone manager at Roland, Iowa ; and Erma B., who was born
May 3, 1895, and is attending school.
Mr. Simser is identified with the Masonic order and the Knights of
Pythias, having been a charter member of Samson Lodge, No. "/"j, Nevada,
of the latter organization. Politically he gives his support to the republi-
can party and is an ardent advocate of its principles. As a patriotic citi-
zen he attempts to perform his duty to the community and is now serving
most acceptably as member of the city council. He is essentially a self-
made man. Starting as a poor boy he has climbed from the bottom of the
ladder financially and has now attained a position of independence. Recog-
nizing the difficulties that lie in the way of young men who have the de-
sire to advance, he is always ready to extend a helping hand to every worthy
aspirant, and it is safe to say that no man in this region has a greater
number of true friends than the subject of this review.
HENRY F. WOODRUFF.
Henry F. Woodruflf is one of the extensive landowners of Story county,
although for the past two years he has made his home in Ames, from which
point he has superintended his agricultural interests. In the management
of his affairs lie displays keen judgment, strum,'- jiurpose and laudable am-
bition, carrying forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes.
He was born in Seneca county. New York. March 8, 1849, his parents be-
ing I'.enjamin and Ruth ( I'uller ) WoodrulT, both of whom were also na-
tives of the Empire state. The mother died when her son was but six
weeks old, and in 1853 the father removed to Lenawee countv, Michigan,
where he resided for ten years, when he went to Ann Arbor, Michigan.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 291
He spent his last days in Ames, in Story county, at the home of his son
Henry F., passing away here in 1898, at the age of eighty-two years. His
father. John Woodruff, was a soldier of the Mexican war, who was
wounded in battle and died a few years later. Henry F. Woodruff has a
sister, Emma ]., who is now the wife of Austin Burbank, of Ypsilanti,
Michigan. He also has a half-sister, Mrs. Ruth McClay, who is living in
Rockford, Illinois.
Henry F. Woodruff' was but four years old when the father removed to
Michigan and was a youth of fourteen when the family home was estab-
lished in Ann Arbor, where he attended the high school. In 1868 he came
to Story county and purchased a farm in Washington township on the
Boone county line. There he actively engaged in general agricultural pur-
suits until about two years ago, when he erected his present beautiful resi-
dence at No. 121 5 Lincoln avenue in Ames and took up his abode in the city.
He retains the ownership of the home farm and has other property, making
him one of the large landholders of this part of the state. He owns a farm
on section 24, Colfax township, Boone county, the southwest quarter of sec-
tion 18, Washington township, this county, and also land on section 19,
Washington township, his total possessions aggregating eight hundred and
seventy-four acres, divided into four farms and improved with four sets
of buildings. The land, however, is all in one body and constitutes a very
valuable and productive property, from which Mr. Woodruff' derives a
substantial annual income. For thirty years he engaged extensively in
feeding cattle and also bought and sold cattle, his live stock interests con-
stituting an important branch of his business. His success has come through
judicious investment and the wise management of his affairs and is weU
merited.
In 1872 Mr. Woodruff was united in marriage to Miss Libby Lambert,
who was born in Jackson county, Michigan, and died in Story county, Iowa,
March 15, 1891, at the age of forty-two years. Their children were: Laura
Elizabeth, who became the wife of John Perry and died in 1907, leaving
five children; Minnie, who died in 1894; Effie, who died in the same year of
typhoid fever, as did her sister; Benjamin, a resident of British Columbia;
and Theressa W., the wife of Hiram H. Powers, a professor at the experi-
mental station at Crookston, Minnesota. In the fall of 1892, in Michigan,
Mr. Woodruff married Theressa Lambert, a sister of his first wife.
In his religious faith Mr. Woodruff is a Methodist. He manifests a
citizen's interest in public affairs, giving his aid and support to many meas-
ures and projects for the general good. He finds great delight in travel
and has visited all of the world's fairs held in this country. On the lOth
of February, 1910, he left San Francisco for a tour around the world, reach-
ing Ames on the 20th of July after a six months' absence. It was a most
enjoyable trip and his mind is today stored with many interesting memories
of the lands and people that he visited. His is the notable record of a
successful business man, who owes his progress to his recognition and utili-
292 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
zation of opportunit)-. J!y untiring industry antl wise investment he has
worked his way steadily u[nvar(l and his success has been so worthily won
that the inost envious could not begrudge him his prosperity. He has never
been known to take advantage of the necessities of another in business
transactions but has placed his dependence upon the substantial qualities of
industry, determination and close application.
L. G. KUSEXFHLD.
The history of agricultural and stock-raising interests in Story county
would be incomplete and unsatisfactory were there failure to make ref-
erence to the Rosenfeld family, for through many years representatives
of the name have closely been associated with business of this character
and in fact have been leaders in farming and kindred activities.
lie whose name introduces this review was born in Morrison. Illinois,
on the 9tli of July, 1864, and was brought to Story county by his parents
in the spring of 1873. He is a .son of George and Louisa (Fritch) Rosen-
feld. The father was born in liaden. Germany, June 4, 1824, took part in
the Baden rebellion and was captured by the Prussian army, being one of
the fifteen hundred prisoners who were locked up in a church. From that
number the enemy each morning took out six officers and shot them. Mr.
Rosenfeld in company with General Sigel managed to escape, forty-four
of the number forcing their way out of prison. He made his way to the
United States as soon as possible. In 1853 he secured a I'rench passport
and in the year 1855 he arrived in Xtw ^■()rk. The same year he was mar-
ried and soon afterward removed westward to Morri.son, Illinois, where
he worked at the mason's trade, which he had i)reviously learned ni his
native country. In 1873 he removed to Story county, Iowa, and was here
killed by the cars while driving a team across the railroad, on the 6th of
March, 1902. He had devoted his life to farming in this state and had
prospered in lii^ undertakings, becoming the owner of five hundred and
twenty-five acres of valuable land, lie had purchased two hundred and
forty acres of the home place here in iHnj but did not take up his abode
thereon until 1873.
L. G. Rosenfeld was at that time a lad of nine years. The family
home was situated a mile north of Kellogg, on section 33, Washington
township, and he has resided upon this farm continuously since. He re-
mained with his i)arents until his marriage, when he located on another
part of the farm about a half mile ea.st of Kelley but still on section t,^.
He owns one hundred and ten acres of the old home place, and his propertv
constitutes one of the valuable and desirable farms of the neighborhood.
Here he is engaged in breeding French draft horses, to which business he
has devoted his attention untiringly and successfully since 1902. He owns
HISTORY OF' STORY COUNTY 293
an imported stallion called Courageous, also another named Gotch, and
has five thoroughbred mares. His horses are all eligible to registry in
both French draft and Percheron classes. Mr. Rosenfeld was a breeder
of Hereford cattle for a number of years but does not give any attention to
that business at the present time. He also breeds Berkshire hogs and his
stock-raising interests are to him a profitable source of income.
In 1891 occurred the marriage of Mr. Rosenfeld and Miss Ella M.
Morris, who was born in Morrison, Illinois, IMay 22, 1866, and is a daugh-
ter of Willard and Addie Morris. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Rosenfeld have been
born two daughters. Mabel and Blanch, who are now high-school students
in Ames.
The family are prominent socially in the county and have an extensive
circle of warm friends. Mr. Rosenfeld has made for himself a creditable
position in business circles, being regarded today as one of the leading
representatives of stock-breeding interests in Story county. He has thor-
oughly informed himself regarding everything that promotes the success
of stock-breeders, especially in raising Percheron draft horses and Berk-
shire hogs. He works untiringly, is strictly honorable in all of his deal-
ings, and success has come to him as the merited reward of his labor.
JAMES H. KIRK.
James H. Kirk, a well known farmer of Union township, was born
in Lebanon. Kentucky, on the 3d of August, 1832, and is the son of Tra-
vis and Melinda (Purdy) Kirk, also natives of the Blue Grass state, whence
they removed to McDonough county, Illinois, in 1841, making their home
there until they passed away. There our subject grew to manhood, re-
ceiving a practical education in the common schools. In 1853, he came to
Iowa, and located in Polk county, where he worked as a farm hand for
three years. The following year was spent in Mills county, and at the end
of that time he returned to McDonough county, where he remained until
he entered the service of his country, enlisting in 1862, in Company D,
One Hundred Twenty-fourth Illinois Infantry. He was discharged the fol-
lowing November, and the next April returned to Iowa, spending one more
year in Polk county.
In the spring of 1864, we again find Mr. Kirk in Iowa, and this time he
took up his abode in Story county, following farming for himself as a
renter for some years. In 1896 he purchased eighty acres of land in
Union township, on which he lived until September, 1871, when he sold
the place and removed to Kansas. He made his home in that state for
three and one half years, but has since been a resident of this county, and
now owns and operates a good farm of eighty acres in Union township.
294 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
In 1869 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Kirk and Miss Elizabeth
C. Warren of Story county, a daughter of Jolin and Ellen (Groseclose)
Warren, both natives of Johnson county. Indiana. It was in tlie fall of
1853 that the Warren family came to Storj' county, Iowa, and the father
purchased the farm now owned by our subject, where he and his wife
continued to reside until called to their final rest. To Mr. and Mrs. Kirk
were born nine children, seven of whom are still living, namely: Charles
W.. who is now principal of the Collins schools; James Burtis, a fanner
of Polk county, Iowa; Edward A., a resident of Greeley. Colorado; Frank
B., who is now operating his father's farm; Addie E.. the w-ife of Harley
Elliott of Union township ; Lulu, the wife of Ingral Hendrickson of Cam-
bridge; and Carl H.. of Des Moines.
The republican party finds in Mr. Kirk a stanch supporter of its prin-
ciples, and he has taken quite an active part in local affairs, serving as
constable for five years, assessor for eight years, and as a member of the
school board for over twenty years. Fraternally he is connected with
Ersland Post No. 234, G. A. R., of Cambridge, and lx)th he and his wife
are earnest and consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal church.
During his long residence in this county he has become widely and fa-
vorably known, and is a man honored and esteemed by all with wdiom he
has been brought in contact.
CHARLES F. STUART.
Charles F. Stuart is an honored veteran of the Civil war but was no
more loyal to his country at that time than he is in days of peace, for he
is ever ready to aid in promoting projects and movements teniling to ad-
vance the welfare of county, state or nation. Much of his life has been
spent in Iowa and he is now living on section 24, Franklin township, where
he owns and cultivates fifty-three and a half acres of land.
lie was liorn at Uridgcport, Belmont county. Ohio. May 13, 1843, =1'"'
is a son of Joseph and Diana (Richardson) Stuart, the latter a native of
Maine, as was probably the father. They lived for a number of years in
Belmont county, Ohio, and in 1858 became residents of Jones county. Iowa,
settling about three miles northwest of Olin. Their remaining days were
passed in that county, where the mother died in 1868, at the age of fifty-
seven years, while the father passed away in 1876, at the age of sixty-,
seven. He was a millwright and followed that trade while in Ohio, but
after coming to Iowa turned his attention to farming. Unto him and his
wife were born four snns and five daughters: George .\.. wlio enlisted at
Reynold.sburg and served for three years in the Civil war. after which he
died in Illinois; Charles, who passed away at the age of seven years; Mrs.
Elmira Jane Robinett. now deceased; Mr-. Mary .\nn Forquer Norman.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 297
of Ashland, Oregon; Mrs. Emeline Norton, of Laramie, Wyoming; Charles
F. ; John Albert, who enlisted in February, 1S64, and served until the close
of the Civil war. his home being now in Jones county, Iowa; Mrs. \'ir-
ginia Bickford, of Washington, Iowa; and Diana, who died at the age of
sixteen years.
When a youth of fifteen years Charles F. Stuart, in 1858, accompanied
his parents to Jones county, Iowa, and was living upon the home farm,
about three miles northwest of Olin, when his patriotic spirit was aroused
and he joined the Union army, enhsting on the loth of August, 1861, as
a member of Company B, Ninth Iowa Infantry, under Captain D. x\. Car-
penter, The command was assigned to the army of the southwest and
was on duty in Missouri and Arkansas, participating in its first engage-
ment at Pea Ridge, Arkansas. Mr. Stuart also took part in the battle of
Chickasaw Bayou and was afterward taken ill, being poisoned with the
water at Yazoo river. Later he participated in the battle of Jackson,
Mississippi, and in the siege of Vicksburg, in which he was twice wounded,
on the 22d of May, 1863. These were only flesh wounds, however, and he
was ofif duty but for ten days. He took part in the second engagement at
Jackson, then went back to Black river and afterward to luka, Tennessee,
where he became ill and was left in the hospital for a few days. He was
then again on duty at the battle of Brandon, after which the troops went
into winter quarters. In December, 1863, he reenlisted in the same com-
pany and regiment and was granted a thirty days' veteran furlough. At
the battle at Dallas, Georgia, he was taken prisoner and sent to Anderson-
ville, where he remained from the 27th of May, 1864, until the loth of
September. He was then removed to Florence, South Carolina, where he
continued until the 5th of February, 1865, when he made his escape. He
was three months in getting to the lines and his companion who escaped
with him was taken sick, Mr. Stuart remaining with him for five weeks,
during which time they were cared for by an old negro. They then re-
joined Sherman's forces at Charleston and reached their regiment at Alex-
andria, \'irginia, on the igtii of May, 1865. After participating in the
grand review at Washington, D. C, they were sent to Louisville, Kcn-
tuckv, where they were discharged and mustered out on the 19th of July,
1865.
Mr. Stuart at once returned to his home in Jones county, Iowa, and
resumed farming. There he resided until 1874. when he came to Story
county. Here he operated a ditching machine for two years, after which
he engaged in farming for two or three years. He then followed rail-
roading until 1892, acting as bridge foreman, and since that date he has
given his attention to general agricultural pursuits, owning and cultivating
fifty-three and a half acres of land on section 24, Franklin township. The
farm is well tilled and developed and brings to him a good annual income.
Mr. Stuart was married in Jones county, September 14, 1865, to Miss
Minerva Overball, who was born in Ohio, May 13. 1845. and died at Ana-
298 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
mosa, Iowa, February 19, 1874. They liad three children : Joseph Michael,
who died in infancy; Charles Wilber, who died at Ames when twenty-four
years of age; and Mrs. Arlinna May Everett, who died leaving one daugh-
ter, Bessie.
On the 27th of June, 1875. Mr. Stuart was again niarried. his second
union being with Ellen Elliott, who was born in Story county, Iowa, De-
cember 25, 1854, a daughter of Clark and Mary Elliott, natives of Ohio
and Indiana, respectively. They came to Story county in August, 1854.
and the father died at Ames, but the mother is now living- in Des Moines.
Four children have been born to the second marriage of Mr. Stuart: Ger-
trude, now the wife of Roy Taylor, of Franklin township; Maude, the
wife of Fay Taylor; Clark; and Bessie, the wife of S. B. Allen. All are
residents of Franklin township.
Mr. Stuart is a member of the United Brethren church at Ames and
also belongs to Ellsworth Post, G. -\. R.. of which he became a charter
member. He has always been true to the banners under which he has
marched and to the cause which he has espoused. Loyalty is one of his
strong characteristics and the county today numbers him among its public-
spirited citizens.
DWIGllT \V. BOYDSTOX.
For twelve years past engaged in the jewelry business at Nevada,
Dwight W. Boydston has attained recognition as an enterprising and pro-
gressive citizen whose example and influence have contributed materially
to the permanent welfare of the city. He is a native of Knoxville, Iowa,
born July 4, 1876, and is a son of George L. and Josephine C. (W'aus)
Boydston. The father was born in Greene county, Pennsylvania, and is of
German parentage. He learned the tinner's trade and in his ear^j' manhood
came to Iowa, subsequently locating at Knoxville, where he has been en-
gaged in the grocery business for the past twenty-seven years. He is also
the owner of a fine farm in Marion county. He was a soldier in the Civil
war and gives his allegiance to the republican party, with which he has been
identified ever since he arrived at voting age. He has been an active
worker politically and served for five years as treasurer of Marion county.
Fraternally he is connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellow^,
the Kjiights of Pythias and the Grand .Army of the Republic. His re
ligious views are indicated by membership in the Methodist church, it
which he is a trustee and a stanch supporter. The mother of our suljject
is a native of Delaware county. Ohio, and is also an earnest member of
the Methodist church. She is now fifty-five years of age, while her hn
band is ten years her senior. There were two children in their family :
Dwight W., our subject; and Marion, who is now engaged in the general
merchandise business at Fairmount. Nebraska.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 299
Dwight W. Boydston received his preliminary education in the pubUc
schools, graduating from the Knoxville high school, after which he at-
tended the Bradley Polytechnic School at Peoria, Illinois, from which he
was graduated in 1898. Having laid the foundation for a successful career
by a thorough education and being attracted to mercantile pursuits, he came
to Nevada in the spring of 1899 and entered the jewelry business in the
First National Bank building, where he has since continued, being now
accounted one of the substantial business men of the city.
On October 12, 1904, JMr. Boydston was united in marriage to Miss
Cora A. Thompson, a daughter of F. D. and Abigail Thompson, a record
of whom appears elsewhere in this work. Two children have blessed the
union of Mr. and Mrs. Boydston: George L., who was bom July 26,
1907; and Josephine, born July 20, 1909.
Mr. and Mrs. Boydston are both members of the Presbyterian church,
in whose behalf they are active workers. He is a valued member of the
Masonic order and the Knights of Pythias and politically gives his support
to the republican party. He has shown capability in his business affairs
and a promptness and efficiency in the discharge of every duty, which have
won him the honor and esteem of all classes of people. He has now se-
cured a handsome competence and is numbered among the representative
citizens of Nevada.
HIRAM E. EMERY.
Hiram E. Emery, a contractor and builder of Ames whose ability and
business integrity constitute the foundation upon which he has raised the
superstructure of his success, was born about a half mile northeast of Ne-
vada on the 24th of August, 1858, his parents being John and Amanda
(Stull) Emery. The father's birth occurred in Wheeling, West \'irginia,
November 28, 1832, while the mother was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania,
September 3, 1835.
The paternal grandfather, Tiiomas Emery, came to Story county, Iowa,
with his family in 1857 and his death here occurred in 1868. His wife,
Mrs. Barbara Emery, died in Grant township in 1890. They had four
children, William. Marv', John and Sarah J. The eldest is now living in
London, Ohio, at the age of more than eighty-five years. Mary is the wife
of Rev. Samuel Gossard, who was one of the first Methodist Episcopal
preachers of Story county. Sarah became the wife of Thomas Gossard, the
nephew of Rev. Samuel Gossard. He was a soldier of the Civil war prior
to his marriage and died in 1889. His widow is now a resident of Onawa,
Iowa. The third member of the family was John Emery, who married
Amanda Stull and they became parents of Hiram E. Emery. Both be-
came residents of Madison county, Ohio, in childhood days and were there
300 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
reared and married. They arrived in Story county, Iowa, in the spring of
1857, traveling by boat to Keokuk and reaching- their destination on the ist
of March. They located on the place where the birth of Hiram E. Emery
occurred and five years later the father entered land in Grant township but
never resided upon that farm. Subsequently he purchased a farm on sec-
tion 32, Grant township, whereon he lived until 1882, when he took up his
abode in Ames. In 1885 he removed to O'Urien county, Iowa, where he re-
sided until 1895, when he went to live with his son Hiram in Poweshiek
county. Eater Hiram E. Emery returned to Ames, accompanied by his
father, who passed away here on the 2Sth of December. 1908. Since the
death of her husband the mother has resided with the daughter in O'Brien
county. In their family were nine children: Mary, who died in Ohio in in-
fancy; Hiram E. ; Nettie B., the wife of Homer Morgan of Cherokee
county; Charles F., also of Cherokee county; E. Grant, of ^lontana; I'"rank,
a resident of Fort Dodge, Iowa; William, of Sanborn, Iowa; John, who
died in infancy; and Florence, the wife of Fred Marunda, of I'rimghar,
O'Brien county.
Hiram E. Emery was reared to farm life, remaining witii his parents
until twenty-two years of age, during which jieriod he became familiar with
all the labors of held and meadow. He then began working at the car-
penter's trade in Ames and was employed by O. P. Stuckslager for three
years. Subsequently he was employed at bridge work and building for the
Chicago & Northw'estern Railroad Company for five years, and subsequently
spent two years in similar service with the Milwaukee Railway Company.
Since that time he has engaged in contracting and building on his own ac-
count and now has a liberal patronage. He has done much work in Ames
and throughout the surrounding country, confining his attention largely to
the building of houses. He has made judicious investments in property and
is the owner of a good farm in O'Brien county and another in Minnesota,
while in Ames he has three good residences and other business interests.
His life has indeed been a busy and useful one, and the success which has
come to him is the merited reward of earnest labor.
On Christmas Day of 1889 Mr. Emery w-as united in marriage to Mi-
Arminda J. Brown, who was born in Guernsey county, Ohio, December 27,
1862, but when 9 years of age went to Poweshiek county, Iowa, with her
father's family. She was the daughter of Samuel and \'ictoria Brown.
The mother died when her daughter was but five years of age, and the father
afterward married again. Mr. and Mrs. Emery became the parents of two
children but the younger, J. V., died in infancy. The elder, Samuel Orvillc,
is now attending the high school.
Mr. Emery belongs to the Masonic fraternity in which he has taken the
degrees of the lodge, chajner and council, lie also holds membership re-
lations will) the .M(»kin Woodmen of America and with the Homesteaders.
His has been a well s[)cnt life, devoted to the duty close at hand. There
nothing hesitating or vacillating in his nature. When he sees that ihcrt-
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 301
something that should be done, he does it, and his promptness and ability in
the discharge of his work have been strong elements in his success. Grad-
ually he has advanced in his business life and now occupies a creditable posi-
tion among the contractors and builders of Story county.
CYRUS SIMMOiNS.
Cyrus Simmons was nimibered among the pioneer settlers of Story
county and for many years was identified with its agricultural interests.
Those who yet remember him — and his friends were many — speak of him
in terms of high regard and attest the fact that his labors were an element
in the substantial improvement and upbuilding of this section. He was
born November 3, 1823, in Ohio, a son of Lorenzo and Anna (Taylor)
Simmons, whose family included Henry, Amos, Rachel, John, Warren, and
Cyrus, who was the third child.
Cyrus Simmons spent his youthful days in Ohio, acquiring his educa-
tion in such schools as the home neighborhood afforded. When about
twenty years of age he accompanied his parents on their westward re-
moval to Adamsville, Michigan, and there he was married in 1853 to Miss
Rosetta Corwin, who was born in Ypsilanti, Michigan, February 13, 1836,
a daughter of Jesse and Sarah (Hewlitt) Corwin, who removed from New
York to Michigan and there spent their remaining days. In their family
were eleven children of whom Mrs. Simmons and Stillman Corwin, of
Ypsilanti, Michigan, are the only ones now living.
Mr. and Mrs. Simmons began their domestic life in the Wolverine
state where they resided until 1855, and then came to Story county, Iowa,
making the trip in a wagon. Here Mr. Simmons purchased a farm of two
hundred and forty acres which he secured at the nominal price of four
dollars per acre. It was wild and unimproved land, hut with characteristic
energs' he began to turn the sod and prepare the fields for cultivation. In
time planting was done and crops were ultimately gathered. Year by year
the work of the farm was carried on until the place was converted into
a rich and productive tract of land from which large harvests were an-
nually garnered. After some years Mr. Simmons sold two eighty-acre
tracts of his place, leaving to his widow eighty acres which is situated on
section 14, Washington township. He also had some timber land. He
made substantial improvements upon his farm, including the erection of
good buildings, and remained there until his death, which occurred in
June, 1878.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Simmons there were born three children but two
of the number died in infancy. The surviving daughter, Alice, is the wife
of Albert Kelly and they reside upon the old Simmons homestead. Mr.
302 lliSTURV UF STURV COUNTY
Kelly operating the farm. They liave tliiee children. Rutli, Ralph and
Floyd.
A thiril of a century lias passed away since Mr. Simmons was called
to his final rest, but he is yet remembered by many of the old settlers
and citizens of this country as a man of genuine worth, active and indus-
trious, and loyal to' the best interests of the community. Mrs. Simmons is
today the eldest resident in this neighborhood, having lived here for more
than fifty-five years, during which period she has witnessed a marvelous
transformation. When she came there were no railroads, much of the
land was unclaimed and uncultivated and the work of civilization and im-
provement seemed scarcely begim. She has seen crossroads villages trans-
formed into thriving cities and towns and as the years have gone by has
also witnessed substantial growth in educational and moral i)rogress as well
as along material lines. She can relate many interesting incidents of the
early days when the homes were small and luxuries few but when hn--
pitalitv reigned supreme and a spirit of general helpfulness existed among
neighbors.
JAMES H. LARSON.
One of the highly esteemed business men of Roland is James li. Lar-
son, who is also serving his second term as mayor of the village. He i-
the son of Lars and Joanna Haugen, both natives of Norway. The father
was born in Norway in 1827 and came to the United States in 1867, lo-
cating in Kendall county, Illinois. During his first five years of resi-
dence in the United States he worked by the day and then rented a place
in Howard township, Story county, Iowa, which he cultivated until 1879.
By thrift, careful management and untiring application he acquired the
means which enabled him to become a property owner and in 1879 he
bought eighty acres of land on which he lived until 1896, when he added
to his holdings another one hundred and sixty acres. Shortly after this
he withdrew from active farming and is now living retired in Iluxlev.
Iowa, enjoying the fruit of his early labors, his realty yielding him a
sufficient income to provide him with the necessities of life and .some oi
the luxuries. Mr. and Mrs. Haugen were the parents of nine children,
of whom seven are living: James II.. our subject; John, residing in Salem,
Oregon; Louis, living at I.akefield, Minnesota; I'clle, a resident of Col-
orado Springs; Cornelius, of Devil's Lake. North Dakota; Eddie, resid-
ing in Seattle, Washington; and Louise, who is the wife of Elmer
Thompson.
Mr. Larson spent his boyhood and youth im a farm, performing such
work as paternal authority dictated. His education was mainly acquired in
night school and he enjoyed the sports and games usually favored by
i
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 303
young people. He remained at home assisting his father until he was
eighteen years of age, when he began business for himself by drilling
wells. He continued in that business for thirteen years, doing some farm-
ing at inter\-als. but in 1900 he embarked into the grain business. After
he had engaged in that for seven years he sold out and went into the
lumber business, which he is now following. In addition to his lumber
interests Mr. Larson is a stockholder in the Farmers Savings Bank and the
Story Independent Telephone Company.
Mr. Larson established a home for himself by his marriage to Miss
May Erickson, a daughter of Michael Erickson. Unto them have been
born five children : Leonard, Severt, Malcolm and Mildred, all of whom
are at school ; and Avis, who is at home. The family always worship with
the Lutheran denomination in which church the parents hold membership
and are ardent workers. Air. Larson is one of the public-spirited and
progressive citizens of his community, who well deserves the esteem which
his fellow citizens entertain for him.
HENRY CLAY LOWREY.
Henry Clay Lowrey is one of the extensive landowners of Storey
county and one of the most prominent importers and breeders of Percheron
horses. His business interests have been so wisely and ably conducted
that success in large measure has come to him and by all is acknowledged
to be the merited reward of his effort.
Mr. Lowrey was born in McLean county, Illinois. March 28, 1858, his
parents being Joseph and Josephine (Jenkins) Lowrey. The father, a na-
tive of Scotland, came to the United States in 1830, settling in Pennsyl-
vania, where he lived for a short time when with two companions he
started on horseback for Illinois, which at that time was largely a frontier
region. Land could be obtained at a very low figure on the western fron-
tier and ]Mr. Lowrey traded a horse for one hundred and sixty acres.
He then turned his attention to farming and with characteristic energy
converted his place into highly cultivated and productive fields. As he
prospered in his undertakings he made other investments in property until
his holdings aggregated several thousand acres, and he w-as numbered
among the wealthy farmers of McLean county at the time of his death.
He left a widow and four children to mourn his loss.
H. C. Lowrey, the third in order of birth, spent his boyhood and youth
upon the old home farm in McLean county and in the district schools ac-
quired his early education, which was afterward supplemented by study
in the Kentucky University at Lexington for a year. He was then com-
pelled to return home to assist in the management of the farm and re-
mained in McLean county until 1894, when he removed to Story county,
304 lUSTUUY UF STURV COUNTY
Iowa, where he has since been engaged in farming and stock-breeding,
making a specialty of importing Percheron horses from France. He is one
of the largest importers of the state and has made forty trips abroad
for that purpose. He has a splendidly improved farm, equipped with all
modern accessories and conveniences and has upon the place every facility
for the care of his stock. Energy, economy, thrift and diligence have
enabled him to win a place among the prosperous agriculturists of his
adopted county, within the borders of which he now owns eight hundred
acres of valuable land, while in liig Stone county, Minnesota, he owns
four hundred acres.
Mr. Lowrey was married, November 5. 1S90. to Aliss Elizabeth Otto,
of McLean county, Illinois, and to them have been born three children:
Joseph and Lawrence, who aid in carrying on the home farm ; and Leona,
at school.
Mr. Lowrey gives his political support to the republican party but the
honors and emoluments of office have no attraction for him as he prefers
to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs. He is honest almost
to a fault. His word is as good as his bond, and he has never been one to
take advantage of the necessities of another in any business transaction. He
would far rather suffer loss him.self than inflict it upon anyone else. He
has pro.spered by reason of his close application, his intelligently directed
effort and his sound judgment, and his record should serve to encourage
and inspire others.
LOVETTE OLIVER.
Lovette Oliver, a capitalist of Gilbert, who has been both the archi-
tect and builder of his own fortunes, was for many years identified with
commercial pursuits and at the present time is vice president of the Gil-
bert Savings Hank, although not in active control of the institution. Large
investments in lands, as well as in bank stock, indicate the success which
has come to iiim as the reward of ])ersistcnt ami intelligently directc<l labor.
He was born in Livingston county. New 'i'ork, October 13, iS^b, a
son of John and Mary (Rosenberg! Oliver. The father was born in Lin-
colnshire, England, in 1816, and when about twenty years of age crossed
the Atlantic, becoming a resident of New York, where he married Miss
Mary Rosenberg, who was liorn in the Empire state in 1820. .\bout i«*^50
he removed with his family i<. Indiana, wlicre he lived for three years, and
then became a resident of Kenosha county, Wisconsin, where he remained
until 1869. He then came to Ames, Iowa, but spent his last days in
Neosho, Missouri, where he passed away in 1871. His widow long sur-
vived him and died in Missouri on the nth of October, 1910. The father
was a cabinet-maker by trade, serving a seven years' apprenticeshi]) in
LDNKTTK iiLIXKi;
HISTORY OF Story county 307
England and afterward following his trade in the United States until his
removal to Wisconsin, when he turned his attention to farming. Unto him
and his wife were born nine children: Mrs. Mary Dowse, now deceased;
James, of Montana; Lovette, of this review; Mrs. Eliza Walker, of
Neosho, Missouri; John, a resident of Cummins, Iowa; Mrs. Libby Mott,
deceased; William, of Neosho, Missouri; Charles, a resident of Ames;
and one who dietl in infancy.
Lovette Oliver was only six years of age when he accompanied his
parents to Indiana and a youth of nine years when they went to Kenosha
county. Wisconsin. There he resided until 1869, when, at the age of
twenty-three years, he made his way to Ames, since which time he has
lived in Story county. He was reared to farm life from the age of nine
and was continuously connected with agricultural pursuits until the time
of his enlistment for service in the Civil war. He offered his aid to the
government in Lake county. Illinois, in February, 1865, and was assigned
to duty with Company F, One Hundred and Fifty-third Illinois Volunteer
Infantry, with which he continued until the close of hostilities, doing guard
duty most of the time with the Army of the Cumberland. He then re-
turned home, after which he engaged in teaching school in the winter
months and in the summer seasons studied photography. After his re-
moval to Ames he opened a photographic gallery, which he conducted for
three years and then removed to a farm a mile and a half southeast of
the present site of Gilbert. Bending his energies to the cultivation and
improvement of his land he transformed his farm into a valuable place and
remained active in its improvement and control until 1880. When the
town of Gilbert was founded he opened a lumberyard there and was en-
gaged in the lumber and implement business for twenty-eight years. When
he retired he was the oldest dealer in those lines in either Story or Boone
counties. Throughout the entire period he had enjoyed an extensive pat-
ronage, for he had closely applied himself to business and at all times
met the demands of his patrons with courteous service and honorable deal-
ing. He was therefore accorded an extensive patronage and his business
brought him substantial returns. As he prospered in his undertakings he
invested more and more largely in real estate. He sold his farm property
in Story county but is the owner of good farming land in Palo Alto county,
together with eight hundred acres in South Dakota. He and his brother
John owned and conducted a lumberyard at Cummins for several years
but at length sold it. Lovette Oliver has invested in bank stock and has
been vice president of the Gilbert Savings Bank since its organization in
1906. His attention, however, is merely given to the supervision of his
invested interests and he is enjoying a rest which he lias truly earned and
richly deserves.
In November, 1868. Mr. Oliver was united in marriage in Lake county,
Illinois, to Miss Lavina Ruth, who was l)orn in that county. October 11,
1846. and is a daughter of Erwin and Leah (Brown) Ruth. Air. and
308 lUSTURV UK STURV CUUXTV
Mrs. Oliver have two children: Irene, now the wife of Oscar Johnson,
living two miles west of Gilbert; and Dr. ClitTord I. Oliver, who is a grad-
uate of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Chicago and now a
practicing physician of Graceville, Minnesota.
Mr. Oliver has been a lifelong republican, active in support of the
party and its principles. He served as township clerk of Franklin town-
ship for fifteen years, has done effective work as a progressive member of
the city council of Gilbert and in the spring of 1910 was elected mayor,
since which time he has given to the city a businesslike and public-spirited
administration, resulting beneficially to Gilbert in many ways. He is like-
wise a valued representative of fraternal organizations. He is a charter
member of I'rank Bentley Post No. 79. G. A. R., and also of the Odd
Fellows lodge of Gilbert, and he joined the Congregational church of the
town on its organization and has since been one of its active and helpful
members. With the exception of two years he has served continuously as
clerk of the church and for twenty-five years has been superintendent of
the Sunday school, doing excellent work in making the methods of the
school of interest to the young and thus inculcating in tlieir minds lessons
which are factors in character building. While he has met with sjilendid
success, business has been to him but one phase of existence and not the
end and aim .of life. He has at all times recognized his duties and obliga-
tions in other relations and stands as a high type of .American manhood
and chivalry.
SAMUEL S. S'lWTLER.
Samuel S. Statler, now living retired at Nevada, was for many years
actively identified with its business interests. He has now passed the
eightieth milestone on life's journey and, having throughout life been gov-
erned by strict principles of honor and fidelity to every trust, he enjoys the
good-will of all who know him. He was born in Stoyestown. Somerset
county, Pennsylvania, December 2, 1830, and is a son of Jonathan Stat-
ler, also a native of Pennsylvania. The family on the paternal side is of
German origin and good Revolutionary stock, the early progenitors hav-
ing arrived in .America during colonial days. Jonathan .Statler was a mer-
chant and also owner of a tannery, being known as a man of good busi-
ness judgment and reliable ciiaracter. He was a member of the Presby-
terian church and politically was identified with the democratic party.
He was called away at the age of fifty-six years, in i860. The mother of
our subject, who bore the maiden name of Maria Snell, was born in Penn-
sylvania, May 14, 181 1. She was of Scotch descent and possessed many
admirable traits inherited from worthy ancestry. She was a firm believer
HISTORY OF' STORY COUNTY 309
ill the Bible and for many years an active worker in the Methodist church.
She departed this Hfe September 24, 1887.
Samuel S. Statler is one of a family of four children and received his
education in private schools, the public-school system not being then es-
tablished. He remained with his parents until after reaching manhood
but in 1855, being then twenty-five years of age, he started out for him-
self. Coming west to Nevada, Iowa, he was connected for a year or more
with the land business. He soon gained many friends in Story county
and was appointed deputy county treasurer and recorder under William
Lockridge, serving for three years. In 1873 he was elected county treas-
urer and filled that office for one term, while previously he had served
as member of the board of supervisors from Nevada township. After
retiring from the treasureship he entered the grocery business, in which
he continued about fifteen years. During this time he also acted as agent
of the American Express Company, continuing in that capacity after re-
tiring from the grocery business and serving altogether twenty-five years
as representative of the express company in Nevada. Since giving up this
position he has taken no part in business affairs.
On March 22, i860, Mr. Statler was united in marriage to Miss Mar-
garet Stephens, who was born in Beaver county, Pennsylvania, Septem-
ber 16, 1831, and is a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Lytle) Stephens.
The parents came to Nevada in the spring of 1858 and here took up their
permanent abode. Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Statler:
Samuel \'., James F. and Sidna, all of whom are deceased ; one who died
in infancy; Edgar, further mention of whom is made below; Carrie Ellen,
who married Frank A. Flach, of Amboy, Illinois, and is the mother of
four children ; Margaret, at home ; and Ferdinand, a fruit grower of El-
berta, Utah. The mother of these children was called from earthly scenes
December 23, 1908. She was a woman of many noble qualities of mind
and heart, who thought no sacrifice too great provided it added to the
comfort and happiness of those with whom she was associated.
Edgar Statler was born in Nevada, Iowa, in 1865. He was educated in
the public schools and engaged in various occupations until arriving at the
age of twenty-five years, when he entered his father's grocery, continuing
there for three years. Subsequently he engaged in other lines but since
1903 has again been identified with the grocery business and has met with
a goodly measure of success. He gives his allegiance to the democratic
party and fraternally is identified with the Knights of the Maccabees. He
holds membership in the Presbyterian church, of which he is a liberal
supporter. In 1889 he was married to Miss Cora M. Slifer, who was born
in Grundy Center, Iowa, in 1871. There are five children in their family.
Samuel S. Statler is a nlember in high standing of the different bodies
of the Masonic order and is connected with the Order of the Eastern
Star. He has for many years been affiliated with the Odd Fellows and is
the oldest member of the order in Story county and the only charter mem-
yiO HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
ber living. Politically he is in sympathy with the democratic party. Al-
ways straightforward, sincere and generous in judging others, he was early
recognized as the possessor of those estimable qualities that are most es-
sential in the formation of manly character. That he has ably performed
his part is the unanimous opinion of those who know him best.
FRANK JOHNSTON ECKELS.
One of the best known and most highly esteemed citizens of Story
county is Frank Johnston Eckels, who was born in Mercer county, Penn-
sylvania, on the 20th of September, 1855. His father, James Starr Eck-
els was also from the Keystone state, having been born in Cumberland
county on the 7th of December, 1827. The latter was a graduate of
the Washington and Jefferson University and after having completed his
academic course studied law. IJefore he began practicing, however, he
filled the cliair of Latin and Greek in a school at Greenville, Pennsylvania.
He married Margaret Herron, a daughter of James and Isabelle (John-
ston) Herron. Her father was a native of Pittsburg, the descendant of
the Pennsylvania branch of the family, and the mother of New ^"ork, her
family being originally from Kentucky, however.
James Starr Kckcis left Pennsylvania in 1S57 and located with his
familj- in Princclon, Illinois, where he ])racticed law up to the time of his
death. He was a member of the democratic party and was always very
active in politics. He was several times the candidate of his party for
congress in a republican district and he was also a delegate to all of the
democratic national conventions while in politics. He passed away in
Princeton, Illinois, in 1907. In his family were four children. Frank
Johnston of this review is the eldest. James Herron, who was a lawyer,
received the appointment as comptroller of currency during the Cleveland
administration and after his retirement from office was elected to the
presidency of the Commercial National Bank of Chicago. His death oc-
curred in Chicago in April, 1897. George Morris is at present acting as
legal counselor of the Commercial National Bank of Chicago. And fane
Lsobelle is the widow of the late Dr. C. A. Palmer, of Princeton, Illinois.
The maternal grandfather of our subject was a brother of the paternal
grandfather of Mrs. William Taft. the wife of the president of the United
States, thus Mrs. Taft and the children of James Starr Eckels are cousins.
Frank Johnston Eckels acquired his preliminary education in the pub-
lic schools of Princeton and after graduation from the high school he
went to Albany, New York, to attend law school, having chosen the profes-
sion of his father as his vocation. He received his degree in 1S75 ami, rc-
turninqf to Princeton, entered the office of his father, with whom he con-
tinued to practice until 1882, when he decided to give up law for agriciil-
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 311
tural pursuits and with this purpose in view located in Wellington, Ohio.
After eighteen years residence in the Buckeye state he removed to Iowa,
locating on two hundred and twenty acres of land in Story county, where
he still resides. His farming has always been conducted along thoroughly
scientific and businesslike methods. His stock is well sheltered and cared
for, all sheds, pens and barns being kept in a thoroughly sanitary condi-
tion, while the latest models in machinery and most up-to-date processes
in drainage and fertilization are employed in the cultivation of the fields.
He has given as much study to agriculture and as careful regard in its
pursuit as he would have bestowed upon the details of any profession or
industry, all of which is indicated by the general air of prosperity which
surrounds his homestead.
Mr. Eckels was married to Miss Jennie Wadsworth, a daughter of
Benjamin Wadsworth, of Wellington, Ohio, one of the extensive land-
owners and prominent farmers of that section of the state. Mrs. Eckels is
a well educated and highly cultured woman, an alumna of the Oxford
University of Oxford, Ohio, one of the oldest and best educational institu-
tions in the state. She is a descendant of Captain Wadsworth of Massa-
chusetts, who hid the charter of the state in the old Charter Oak, and the
poet Longfellow was connected with the same family on his mother's side.
Mrs. Eckels also has the distinction of being a descendant of General
Putnam of Revolutionary fame. Both she and her husband belong to good
old American families who have been connected with the history of the
country since colonial days and are eligible to various societies whose
membership depends on Revolutionary lineage.
They are the parents of eight children, who are as follows : Elmer
Palmer is living in Illinois. Jennie Wadsworth became the wife of George
G. Hutchinson, cashier of the First National Bank at Lake City, Iowa. She
was a student of Overland College, while Mr. Hutchinson is a graduate of
the Iowa State University. Herron Ames married Bertha Chapman, of
Wellington, Ohio, who was a teacher in the Cleveland high school. Frank
Johnston is a graduate of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, that
state, and is now practicing law at Fort Smith, Arkansas. He attended
the Iowa State College at Ames for two years and the University of Michi-
gan for three. Maria was a student at Ferry Hall and later at Oxford
College at Oxford, Ohio. She married Raymond Hutchinson, a gradu-
ate of the Iowa State University, who is now the cashier of a bank at Rock-
well City, Iowa. James Starr is deceased. Benjamin Wadsworth and
Margaret Davidson are attending school in Nevada.
The family always attend the services of the Presbyterian church, of
which the parents are members. They are a family of unusual refinement
and education and hold a prominent social position in the community where
they reside, their home being noted for its hospitality and the gracious cor-
diality accorded all guests. Mr. Eckels has been a resident of Story county
for only nine years, yet that time has sufficed for him to impress his per-
312 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
s
sonality upon those who have formed his acquaintance, and he is generally
recognized as a man of unusual attainments. He has a gentleman's sense
of honor and this coupled with his high ideals and manly dignity has won
him the esteem and respect of the entire community.
ROBERT ALEXANDER ROBISON.
During a residence of fifty years in Story county Robert A. Robison
left an indelible impress here by reason of the fact that he exemplified in
his life the sterling traits of good citizenship and of activity and honor in
business. Through careful management and judicious investment he be-
came one of the extensive landowners of the county, owning at the time
of his death nearly twelve hundred acres of valuable farm land. He had
devoted many years to general agricultural pursuits and stock-raising near
Iowa Center, having arrived in this state in the fall of 1856.
He was born in Mifflin county, Pennsylvania. May 15. 1822. His
father, John Robison. was a native of the same locality, was reared to
manhood there and after arriving at years of maturity wedded Miss Mary
Anderson, also a native of Pennsylvania. They took up their abode upon
a farm in MifiBin county and resided there until called to their final rest,
the father passing away in 1853 and the mother a number of years later.
Their family numbered eight children, seven sons and a daughter.
Robert A. Robison, who was the sixth in order of birth, remained under
the parental roof through the period of his boyhood and assisted his father
until eighteen years of age, when he began learning the carpenter's trade,
which he followed for a number of years, eventually becoming a contractor
and builder. In 1855 he heard and heeded the call of the west. Bidding
adieu to the Keystone state, he removed to Lafayette, Indiana, where he
worked at his trade for about eighteen months, and in the fall of 1856 came
to Iowa, settling in Story county, at Iowa Center. There he established
himself in business as a contractor and builder, but after four years de-
voted to that pursuit took up his abode upon a farm in 1859 and con-
centrated his energies upon the work of tilling the soil. He first bought
eighty acres of land and added to the farm from time to time as his re-
sources increased, until in his home place he had over four hundred and
twenty acres. Elsewhere he bought other property until he became the
owner of nearly twelve hundred acres. He brought his fields under a high
state of cultivation and added modern equipments to his different farm
properties. Upon the home place he erected a fine residence, together with
two large barns and other outbuildings necessary for the shelter of grain,
stock and farm machinery.
His success came to him largely after his removal to Iowa and was the
direct result of untiring industry and good management. He worked his
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 313
way steadily upward until he was recognized as one of the self-made men
of his township. In addition to tilling the soil he raised and fed cattle and
hogs and found that a profitable source of income. Year by year his farm-
ing and stock-raising interests were carried on carefully, systematically and
profitably until 1893, when he left the farm work to others and removed
to the city of Nevada, where he resided until his death. During the first
seven years of his residence in Nevada his home was upon a farm lying
partially within the corporation limits. About 1900 he removed to Linn
street, occupying an attractive residence, in which his widow now makes
her home.
Mr. Robison was married in Pennsylvania, in February, 1852, to Miss
Nancy Greer, a native of that state. She, too, was born in Mifflin county
and was a daughter of Adam and Mary Greer. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Robi-
son were born eight children: George G., who is married and resides in
Nevada ; Ida, who became the wife of A. G. Moore and died near Nevada,
December 28, 1909, leaving three daughters: Emma, the wife of Warren
Maxwell, of this county ; Roland, who is married and is an extensive cattle
feeder living four miles west of the town of Maxwell; Charles, who is
married and resides on a farm six miles south of Nevada; Fannie, who is
the wife of Ephraim Proctor, living about four miles from Cambridge;
Edward, a resident of Maxwell, Iowa ; and Bert, who follows farming near
Nevada. All of the children are now married and have homes of their
own.
When Mr. and Mrs. Robison came to Story county in September, 1856,
their cash capital consisted of but ten dollars. The following winter was
a most severe one and they suffered much with the cold. They had startetl
from Lafayette with ox teams but one of the oxen became crippled and
Mr. Robison traded the other for a horse and bought another horse, driv-
ing the rest of the way with the newly acquired team. At that time the
county contained a population of little more than two hundred and the
town of Nevada was not founded for five years more. There was scarcely
any money in circulation and Mr. Robison worked at his trade and in com-
pensation therefore took what he could of the necessaries of life. Des
Moines, thirty miles away, was the nearest trading point. Food supplies
were scarce and prices were very high at first. The family met all of the
hardships, privations and trials of pioneer life, but with the passing years
all this changed, and as the result of his energy, diligence and wisely di-
rected effort Mr. Robison became one of the wealthiest men of the county.
After his retirement he spent two winters in California in company with
his wife. In all matters of citizenship he stood for progress and reform,
seeking the adoption of methods and measures for the benefit of the com-
munity at large. He instructed his children in habits of industry and
economy and reared a family who are a credit to his name. He continued
his residence in Nevada until his death, which occurred January 23, igo6.
In the meantime he had been an interested witness of the growth and de-
314 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
velopinent of the county, which had been transformed from a largely un-
inhabited district into one of the populous and prosperous sections of the
state. His labors were an element in its substantial growth, and no man
rejoiced more heartily in what was accomjilished along the lines of im-
provement and upbuilding. He possessed a genial nature that attracted
warm friendship and, while to him was allotted a long life of about eighty-
four years, it was with deep regret that his fellow townsmen learned that
he had been called to his final home. Mrs. Robison still resides in Nevada
and is one of the oldest among the pioneer women of this part of the state.
JESSE BARKER.
The name of Barker is well known in Story county and is recognized
as a synonym for integrity of character and also for success in business
affairs. Jesse Barker, the founder of the family in this county, is now
more than four score years of age and for forty-five years has been identi-
fied with the agricultural interests of Iowa. He was born at Windham,
Greene county, New York, October 12, 1828, a son of Ezra and Mary
(Conley) Barker. The parents were New Englanders, locating in Greene
county after their marriage. Subsequently they lived in various places
in the Empire state, the father passing away in Steuben county. New
York. The mother came to Iowa with her son Azel, who located in
Kossuth county, where she continued until her death.
Jesse Barker was reared in New York state and as he grew to manhood
was given the advantages of a common-school education. He engaged in
farming in Steuben county until May, 1866, when he sold his farm, being
attracted westward on account of superior advantages offered in the Mis-
sissippi valley. He came to Story county and purchased one hundred and
sixty acres of unimproved land in I'nion township, to which he later adikl
eighty acres. He lived with his family for a time in a rude board liou-c.
later erecting a comfortable residence wdiich is now the family home. By
close application to a business, for which he was well adapted by natural
ability and training, he became one of the prosperous farmers of the
township, cultivating his land so as to produce highly gratifying results.
He engaged in general farming but during recent years has lived retired,
having sold all but one hundred acres of his place.
On the 20th of January, 1850, in Steuben county. New "S'ork. Mr.
Barker was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Mary Brown, a daughter
of Abijah and roily (McClary) Brown, natives of New York, but at an
early day the fatlier brought his family to Iowa. Of the nine children
born to our subject only three are now living, namely : Cliarlcy (or C. D.) ;
Eugene; and Delphine, the wife of W. C. Bennett, of Greene county, Iowa.
The son Eugene is a well known farmer of Union township. He married
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 317
Miss Jennie Chashe, a daughter of David and Emma (Lampman) Chashe,
and they became the parents of five children : Cora, now the wife of \V.
Huff; Jessie, the wife of Chnton Warfield, by whom she has one child,
Selma Louise; Glenn Irvin; David Earl; and Effie Winnefred.
Mr. Barker is a self-made man, whose prosperity has been gained
through his own well directed efforts. Possessing at the outset of his
career good business talent, he took advantage of opportunities as they
were presented and gained a position of respect and responsibility. He
has displayed many traits of character which are recognized as belonging
to the best citizenship and he assisted to the extent of his ability in the
development of Story county. Today he is enjoying the results of many
years of labor, in the course of which he assisted many others less fortunate
than himself. Politically Air. Barker gives his adherence to the republican
party. He is not connected with any religious denomination but is friendly
toward them all.
LOUIS HERMANN PAMMEL.
Louis Hermann Pammel, occupying the chair of botany in the Iowa
State College, is numbered among those whose work has been most effec-
tive and resultant in giving to the college its high standing among such
institutions of learning in the country. He is also widely and favorably
known because of his contributions to scientific literature. In Dr. J. Mc-
Keen Cattell's American Men of Science Dr. L. H. Pammel's name ap-
pears among the American men of science as one who has won distinction
as an investigator. It is also a recognition of the work done in Iowa State
College as he is the only inan so selected from the college whose name is
starred.
He was born in La Crosse, Wisconsin, April 19, 1862, his birthplace
being one of the first brick houses erected in that city. His father, Louis
Pammel, was a native of Hoxter, Germany, and in 1853 came to America,
settling first in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He afterward returned to Ger-
many for his bride, who in her maidenhood was Sophie Freise, a native
of Stade, Germany. Following his return to the United States he took up
his abode in what w-as then the small city of La Crosse, where he en-
gaged in the meat business until 1867, when he removed to a farm three
miles from the city on the state road between Madison and the Missis-
sippi river. Three sons and three daughters were born unto Louis and
Sophie Pammel, namely : Louis ; Hermann ; Gustaf ; Mathilda ; Dora ; and
Emma, who became the wife of Professor N. E. Hansen, but is now
deceased.
Louis H. Pammel attended the country schools and afterward pursued
a year's course in a La Crosse business college. Private instruction later
318 IllSTURY OF STORY COUNTY
prepared him for entrance to tlie University of Wisconsin, in which he was
enrolled as a student in September, 1881. Previous to this time he had
worked at ordinary routine farm labor, doing the chores about the home
place, plowing and cultivating the ground and caring for the harvests.
The summer vacations while in college were also spent in farm work.
In the university he pursued the agricultural course and was graduated
in 1885, the only agricultural student graduating in that class. Previous
to that time the university had graduatetl but a single student in that
course. In addition to the prescribed work he pursued special work in
German literature under Professor W. H. Rosenstengcl, and also made a
study of botany, which he pursued under the efficient and able educator,
Dr. William Trelease, who later became director of the Missouri Botanical
Garden at St. Louis. Because of his special work he took special honors
in botany, preparing a thesis on the Anatomy of the Seeds of Some
Leguminosae. This paper was later published in the Bulletin of the Torrey
Botanical Club. This was the first of many of Professor Pammel's papers
that have been accorded publication, although his introduction to the sci-
entific world was through a paper by Dr. Trelease on Some Phenological
Observations and the List of Parasitic Fungi of Wisconsin.
After leaving the university, Professor Pammel was associated from
December, 1885, until the following July with Dr. W. G. Farlow, of Har-
vard University, as private assistant and later was proffered the position
of assistant in the Shaw School of Botany of Washington University, St.
Louis, under his old teacher. Dr. Trelease. While there he published two
of his papers, one on Mildews, and a second on Root Rot of Cotton, the
latter containing the results of his investigations of a serious disease of
cotton in Texas, which he investigated for the Te.xas .Agricultural Experi-
ment Station during the summer of 1888.
In February, 1889, Professor Pammel received and accepted a call to
ilie chair of botany from the Iowa Agricultural College, as it was then
known. He has been in continuous service of the Iowa State College since,
except for occasional summer work done for the Bureau of Forestry,
Bureau of Plant Industry of the United States department of agriculture.
When he was called to the chair of botany in 1889 the department had the
upper floor of Xoriii Hall, now an annex to Margaret Ilall. He had to
give all of the instruction in the class room and laboratory. Tiie depart
mcnt was well equipped for the time. He had been preceded by two mo.-t
efficient and poindar instructors, — Dr. C. E. Pessey, who became the pro-
fessor of botany of the University of Nebraska, and Dr. Byron D. Hal-
sted, professor of botany, Rutgar's College, New Jersey. He carried out
the same general policies and has endeavored to see the department well
equipped in every way. During this time the department was sent from
pillar to post, having had (|uartcrs in the .Xgricidtural building, built in the
'90s, then in the old Main building, from which the department was driven
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 319
by two disastrous fires, then in the dining room of Margaret Hall, and
finally in the modern and well equipped Central building, where it oc-
cupies splendid quarters on the top floor, in one of the best buildings of its
kind in the country. Though much was lost by the two fires, he has started
a splendid herbarium, containing the large and extensive herbarium made
by Dr. C. C. Parry, formerly a citizen of Davenport. This collection con-
tains many types from the Rockies and the Pacific coast, as Dr. Parry
was an early Rocky Mountain explorer.
In 1889 Professor Pammel was honored with the degree of Master
of Science from his alma mater and in 1899 Washington University of
St. Louis conferred on him the Doctor of Philosophy degree, on which oc-
casion his thesis was Anatomical Characters of the Seed of Legimiinosre
Chiefly Genera of Gray's ^lanual. His contributions of papers along
scientific and economical lines are regarded as of marked value and worth
in the scientific world. Among his more important contributions are:
Grasses of Iowa (two volumes) ; Ecology (one volume) ; Pet Bog Flora
of Northern Iowa ; The Anatomy of the Caryopsis of Some Grasses ; Fun-
gus Diseases of Grasses ; Manual of Poisonous Plants, a large volume of
over one thousand pages ; and Common Weeds of the Farm and Garden.
These indicate something of the line and scope of his activities and their
favorable reception by the scientific world indicates his standing in the
profession.
He is a fellow in the American Association for the Advancement of
Science and the Iowa Academy of Science. He is a member of the Botani-
cal Society of America and Deutsch. Bot. Gesellsch, St. Louis Academy,
Society for the Promotion of Agricultural Science, Society of American
Bacteriologists, American Breeders' Association, American Forestry As-
sociation and a corresponding member of the Davenport Academy of Sci-
ence. He has been president of the Iowa Academy of Science and Iowa
Park and Forestry Association. He was formerly a member of the Iowa
Geological Board. At the present time he holds membership with the
Delta Theta Sigma, an honorary agricultural fraternity, and is a director
of the Cosmopolitan Club, in which he takes great interest. Aside from
his interest in general college affairs. Professor Pammel has ever mani-
fested a most helpful spirit toward his students. He has the faculty,
without which the educator never attains the highest success, of regarding
each student from the standpoint of the individual and in his instruction
and personal relations of meeting scientific needs. A number of the men
of his training now occupy important positions in college and govern-
mental work, including F. C. Stewart, botanist of the Geneva (New York)
Agricultural Experimental Station, C. R. Ball, C. W. Warburton, J. I.
Schulte, Miss Emma Sirrine, P. H. Rolfs, F. Rolfs, A. J. Norman, F. W.
Faurot, R. E. Buchanan, E. R. Hodson, A. L. Bakke, J. R. Campbell, E.
Sherman. G. W. Carv'er and Dr. L. Lewis.
320 HISTORY OI' STORY COL'XTY
Professor Pammel was married June 29, 1887, to Miss Augusta Emmel,
of Chicago, and unto them have been born six children, Edna, Harriet,
Doris, Lois, Violet and Harold. They are all faithful communicants of the
Protestant Episcopal church, in the work of which they take active part.
Theirs is an attractive home opposite the campus and is the scene of many
delightful social functions.
D.WID VANCE THRIFT.
David \'ance Thrift, proprietor of a restaurant in Xevada, was born in
Utica, Licking county, Ohio, August 18, 1845, and is a son of \\'illiam and
Margaret (Newell) Thrift, whose family numbered five sons and three
daughters, of whom David \'. is the youngest and the only one now living,
lie was only three years of age at the time his mother died and but six
years of age when his father passed away. His uncle, Joseph Thrift, was
a commissioner sent out by the government and located the county seat of
Story county, which he named Nevada after the Sierra Nevada Mountains,
for he was an old Californian. His residence was at Boonesboro, Iowa.
He went to Fort Des Moines with the soldiers as a tailor and engaged in
making the clothing worn liy the trDnjis. He was the fatlier of the first
white child born there, and his eldest son. William Hamilton Thrift, served
as adjutant general of Iowa under Governor Cummins. The life of Joseph
Thrift was in many respects an eventful and unusual one, owing to the
varied exi)criences that came to him. He was a native of V^irginia and
spent his last days in California.
Early in life David \'ance Thrift started out to earn his own living.
He was reared in Bellefontaine, Ohio, to the age of thirteen years and then
went to Findlay, Ohio. In that district he worked for farmers for his
board and clothing and also was employed as porter in hotels. In fact lie
scorned no emplcjyment that would yield him an honest living, doing what-
ever he could until si.\tcen years of age, when on a certain afternoon he
walked sixteen miles to Carey and there boarded the train for Bellefon-
taine, Ohio. This was in the year 1861 and he enlisted, under his nick-
name, "Leroy" Thrift, as a member of Company E, Eighty-second Ohio
\'olunteer Infantry, which command was organized at Kenton, Hardin
county, Ohio. He served for two years with the army as an independent
sharpshooter and was then honorably discharged on account of disability.
In 1863 he went to Warsaw, Indiana, where he learned the tinner's
trade, at which he worked for six years. On the expiration of that period
he came to Iowa, settling in Kellogg, where he established a hardware store
which he conducted for a year. He then sold out and went to Monroe,
Jasper county, where he again became proprietor of a hardware store but
again sold after a year. In 1874 he arrived in Nevada and opened the first
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 321
bakery shop and restaurant in the city. He continued the business for two
or three years, when he sold out and for five years thereafter he was em-
ployed by T. E. Alderman & Sons, working at the bench in their hardware
store. He then opened a hardware store of his own, which he sold five
years later, going to California, where he spent six months, after which he
returned and opened a restaurant, which he has since conducted. He has
made this popular with the public and is accorded a good patronage. While
there have been no sensational chapters in his business career, he has
worked his way steadily upward and is now the owner of two good busi-
ness blocks in the city in addition to his restaurant.
On the 27th of December, 1865, Mr. Thrift was married to Miss Emily
A. King, a native of Ohio, and they have an extensive circle of warm
friends in this city. Mr. Thrift belongs to the Grand Army of the Re-
public and to the Knights of Pythias. In matters of citizenship he is as
true and loyal to his country today as when he followed the old flag upon
southern battlefields. He deserves all the praise implied in the term, a
self-made man, for he has worked his way steadily upward, depending
entirely upon his own resources from the age of thirteen years. Whatever
success he has achieved is attributable entirely to his earnest labor and ca-
pable management.
WILLIAM N. CANADY.
Within the borders of Story county there still reside many of the vet-
erans of the Civil war who in early manhood, with the vigor and courage
of youth, fought for the defense of the Union and have since remained
loyal citizens of the country, stanchly supporting measures which they be-
lieve to be for the best interests of the state and nation. Among this num-
ber is William N. Canaday, who was born in Nicholas county, Kentucky,
on Saturday, December 31, 1842, in the last hour of the year. His parents,
John and Jane (West) Canady, also natives of Kentucky, were residents of
that state until 1850, when they came with their family to Iowa, settling in
Clinton county near Dewitt. The mother died in Woodbury county. Iowa,
but the father spent his last days in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Their family
numbered twelve children, five sons and seven daughters, of whom Robert
Canady served for three years as a soldier of Company H, Twenty-sixth
Iowa Infantry, during the struggle to preserve the Union.
William X. Canady was but eight years of age when his parents left
Kentucky and went to Clinton county, Iowa, where his youthful days were
spent upon a farm. The public schools afl^orded him his educational privi-
leges and when not busy with his text-books he worked in the fields. His
time was given to the farm work until his enlistment for service in the
Union army on the 12th of August, 1861, as a member of Company A,
'S-2-2 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Eighth Iowa Infantry The regiment was assigned to the Army of the
Tennessee, and with his command Mr. Canady participated in the battles of
Shiloh, Corinth, the Siege of \'icksburg, Champion Hill, Grand Gulf and
Memphis, being in Memphis in 1864 when General Forest made his raid.
The Eighth Iowa saved the city on that occasion. Afterward Mr. Canady
took part in the battle of Spanish Fort and was in all in sixteen important
engagements. He received an honorable discharge on the 20th of April,
1865, and then returned home.
During the period of the war he had attained his majority and on the
6th of February, 1866, Mr. Canady was married to Miss Loretta Tamer,
who was born in Dewitt, Clinton county, Iowa, October 14, 1847, and is a
daughter of Joseph and Sarah (Shinn) Tamer, the father a native of New
Brunswick and the mother of Illinois. Her death occurred in her native
state while Mr. Tamer passed away at Wall Lake, Iowa. Following his
marriage Mr. Canady engaged in farming in Clinton county for a brief
period but in December, 1866, came to Story county and located near the
present site of the Iowa State College. He aided in building the first cen-
tral building of that institution. He also went to Zenorsville, Boone county,
where he worked in the coal mines for twenty years, and in 1902 he came
to CJilbcrt, where he followed carpentering. The past five years, however,
have been spent in the conduct of a wagon shop. He learned the trade of
carpentering in 1872 and followed it in Des Moines, Boone and other
cities. He possesses natural mechanical ability w-hich training and ex-
perience have augmented and he is now numbered among the capable arti-
sans of Gilbert, where he has won a liberal patronage in the conduct of his
wagon shop during the past five years.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Canady have been born ten children : Carter N.,
now living in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania ; Eddie M., who died in infancy ;
Etta M., the deceased wife of Clifford Zenor ; Murt. living in Greene county,
Iowa; Sadie J., the wife of George Black, of Dawson, Iowa; Leonard J.,
at home; Lilly, the wife of Frank Reynolds, of Boone; Arthur, of Pitts-
burg; and Thomas E. and Ethel, both at home. Two of the sons. Carter
and Arthur, are graduates of the civil engineering department of the Iowa
State College, the former having completed his course in 1888 and the
latter in 1908. Carter Canady now has charge of the highway department
for the American Bridge Company at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and .\rtl)iir
is working there for him. lie has also spent eight inonths at work on thei
Panama canal.
In his political views Mr. Canady has long been a republican, believing
that the princi|)le> nf that party contain the Ijest elements of good govern-^
ment. While living in Boone county he served as justice of the peace forj
ten years and his decisions were based upon a comprehensive knowledge of
the law as well as of the equity of the case. He has also been justice of the
peace of Gilbert for two years and was the second mayor of this city. He
takes an active part in the public life of the community and his worth is
HISTORY OF STORY COUxNTY 323
recognized by his fellovvmen who have honored him with office. He be-
longs to Frank Bentley Post, No. 89, G. A. R., of Gilbert, also to the Odd
Fellows lodge here and is likewise a member of the Congregational church.
A review of his life shows that he has closely followed a course which has
made of him a valued citizen and an upright man. He has many good
qualities, is social and genial by nature and at all times approachable. Good
words are spoken of him by his fellow townsmen, and he is justly ac-
counted one of the worthy citizens of Gilbert.
ISAAC H. CRAIG.
Isaac H. Craig is regarded as one of the prominent citizens of western
Iowa, and, while a resident of Boone county, is widely known in Story
county, his home being just across the line. His friends in this part of the
state are many, and his life history therefore cannot fail to prove of in-
terest to a large majority of the readers of this volume.
His birth occurred in Harrison county, Indiana, August 25, 1832, and
he was reared in Clay county of that state. His parents were Presley R.
and Elizabeth (Hiestand) Craig, the former a native of West Virginia and
the latter of Ohio. When their son Isaac was about fourteen years of age
they were baptized by the Mormon missionaries and joined that religious
sect and when they were driven out of Nauvoo, Illinois, the father decided
to go with them across the plains. Isaac H. Craig accompanied his parents
as far as Council Bluffs and there the father and children were taken ill.
This was his first experience in Iowa. The following spring the family
returned to Indiana and remained residents of Clay county until March,
1853, when they came to Story county, the family home being established
three miles north of the present site of Ames. The father entered land
from the government, began the development of a farm and continued to
engage in agricultural pursuits in this county throughout his remaining
days. His wife also passed away in Story county. They were the parents
of six children : Isaac H. ; Elisha B., who enlisted with the first squad from
Story county as a member of Company E, Third Iowa Infantry, and died
in the service; Benjamin F., who joined Company D, of the Tenth Iowa
Infantry, and also died while serving in the Union army; Samuel Clay,
who died at the home of his brother Isaac about twenty years ago ; Mrs.
Nancy E. Horine, also deceased; and Sarah A., who is the wife of Alex-
ander H. Buck, a veteran of the Civil war now living in Ames.
After coming to Iowa Isaac H. Craig remained at home with his parents
until after the outbreak of hostilities between the north and the south,
when, prompted by a spirit of patriotism, he joined Company A of the
Twenty-third Iowa \'olunteer Infantry in July, 1862. He was on active
duty among the bushwhackers in Missouri until honorably discharged on
324 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
account of disability in March, 1863. He then returned home and was en-
gaged in farming in Story county until he sold his farm of seventy-nine
acres and purchased his present farm just across the boundary line in
Jackson township, Boone county. Upon this he took up his abode in
^Tarch, 1909. He has sixty acres of rich and valuable land, a mile and a
quarter west of Ontario and a quarter of a mile west of the Story county
line. His entire life has been devoted 10 agricultural pursuits, and in his
work his practical methods and unfaltering spirit of industry have consti-
tuted the source of a substantial success. What he undertakes he accom-
plishes. There is about him no hesitancy, and his carefully formulated
plans are well executed and have brought him prosperity.
Mr. Craig has been married twice. On the 27th of December, 1856, he
wedded Miss Mary Briley, a native of Indiana, wlio came to Iowa with her
mother in 1852 and died here in February, 1896. There were seven chil-
dren born of that union: Laura E., who is -now in Ames; Eldora, who died
in childhood ; Mary, who died at the age of fourteen years ; Arthur Sher-
man, who passed away at the age of eleven years; Minerva, the wife of
Ralph Bell, of Idaho ; Charles, living in Ontario, Iowa ; and Xanny, the
wife of George Cowdrey, of Washington townshij). Story county. In -Feb-
ruary, 1898, Mr. Craig was again married, his second union being with
Mrs. Rebecca Breezley, the widow of J. D. Breezley.
Mr. Craig has now been a resident of this section of the state for fifty-
eight years and has therefore witnessed the greater part of its growth and
development as its wild lands have been transformed into attractive farms,
as cross-roads villages have grown into cities and as the work of improve-
ment has been carried on along all the lines which indicate an advanced
civilization. He has participated in or witnessed many of the events which
are now matters of history. He cast his first vote in 1853 at the first elec-
tion held in Story county at the organization of the county, his ballot sup-
porting candidates who were running for county offices. In 1856 he voted
for John C. Fremont, the first presidential nominee of the republican party
and has never failed to support its presidential candidates since that time.
He has never held any office higher than that of township trustee, for his
ambition is not along political lines. He has sought to do his duty quietly
as a private citizen but has preferred to leave office-holding to others. He
maintains pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his mem-
bership in Ellsworth Post, No. 30, G. A. R. of Ames.
He relates many interesting incidents of the early days and of the ex-
periences which constituted features of pioneer life. He was an expert
rifle shot w-hen a young man and has killed many deer on the present site
of Ames, for they were to be found in plentiful numbers during the first
three years of his residence in Iowa. Wild turkeys were also very nu-
merous, as were prairie chickens and other game. In 1854 Mr. Craig
wished to go 1)ack to Indiana to see some of his old neiglibors, for he was
homesick and longed for the companionship of old friends. He walked.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 325
from Story county to Iowa City and on to Rock Island, Illinois, which was
the nearest railroad town, covering the distance of one hundred and ninety
miles in four days. At night he would seek shelter in some pioneer cabin,
for in those days the homes of the early settlers were always open to the
traveler. He did not need money or introduction to secure accommoda-
tions. It was a time in which hospitality reigned supreme and a cordial
welcome was extended to all. While Mr. Craig misses some of the old-
time pleasures and customs, he is yet a believer in the world's progress and
knows that substantial advancement has been made over the old methods of
living when the farm work was done with crude machinery and when the
homes were small, large families being crowded into two or three rooms.
Today comforts and conveniences are to be had by all who will labor per-
sistently and earnestly for them, and Mr. Craig is numbered with those
to whom prosperity has come as the reward of earnest and persistent toil.
LEWIS APPELGATE.
Lewis Appelgate, who was numbered among the early settlers of Story
county and who took active and helpful part in developing and improving
this section of the state, was born in Indiana on the 25th of February,
1819, a son of Nathaniel and Elizabeth (Smith) Appelgate, the former a
native of Virginia, while the latter was probably born in Indiana. They
had seven sons and four daughters, including Lewis Appelgate.
In his childhood days our subject accompanied his parents on their re-
moval to Bureau county, Illinois, the family home being established mid-
way between De Pue and Princeton. There he was reared to manhood
amid the pleasant conditions of country life and having arrived at years of
maturity he was united in marriage to Miss Louisa Tichenor, who was
born in Indiana, February 7, 1821. Her father was Moses Tichenor.
Mr. and Mrs. Appelgate began their domestic life in Illinois, and six
children were born unto them there before their removal to Iowa in 1855,
at which time they took up their abode in Story county, settling on section
18, Nevada township, two miles south of Nevada. There the father spent
his remaining days, devoting his time and energies to the development and
improvement of a farm of one hundred and forty-two acres of land which
was naturally rich and productive and responded to the care and labor
which was bestowed upon it. He was ever an upright, honorable man, and
held membership in the Methodist Episcopal church. His political alleg-
iance was given to the democratic party, and he filled some minor offices
but never cared for political preferment.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Appelgate were born nine children. Joseph, the
eldest, is now deceased. James M. enlisted from Story county for active
service at the front during the Civil war and died in the army. Sarah A.
326 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
is the wife of E. T. Rainier, who was born in this county in November,
1868, and has always resided within its borders. In May, 1905, he wedded
Sarah Appclgate who since 1855 has resided upon a farm where they now
made their home on section 18, Nevada township. She came to this county
with her parents when ten years of age. Lorenzo D., the ne.xt of the
family, is a resident of Nevada. Franklin M. wedded Miss Mary Lewis
in 1876. She was born in Connecticut in February, 1856, and when four
years of age went to Illinois with her parents. Her mother died when she
was six years of age and her father afterward married again, coming with
his family to this county when Mrs. Appelgate was nine years of age.
Unto F. M. Appelgate and his wife have been born three children: Her-
bert; Bernice, the wife of Lewis Appelgate, of Richmond township; and
Verne, the wife of Guy Atkinson, living near McCallsburg. Mar)', the
sixth member of the family of Lewis Appelgate, Sr., is the wife of John
Densmore, of Nevada. Olive is the wife of Albert Hemstead, of Clinton,
Iowa. Mrs. Viola Gooden is deceased; McClellan, the youngest of the
family is living in Grant township.
The name of Appelgate has been associated with the history of this
county for more than fifty-five years, and the members of the family have
taken active and helpful part in the work of general improvement and
progress, so that they deserve prominent mention upon the pages of this
volume.
JAY G. BUTTON.
Jay G. Button, president of the Farmers Bank of Nevada, throughout
the last period of his residence in this city, covering thirteen years, has
long been accorded a prominent position in business and financial circles.
His record is another proof of the fact that success is not the result of
genius as held by some, but is rather the outcome of clear judgment, ex-
perience and close application.
He was bom in Benton county, Iowa, August 31, 1866, and in 1870
was brought to Nevada by his parents, O. B. and Elizabeth A. (Beavers)
Button, the former a native of New York and the latter of New Jersey.
The father became a resident of Chicago in 1835, before the incorpora-
tion of the city, and was closely identified with its early development. The
year 1855 witnessed his arrival in Iowa and in Belaware county, this state,
he was married to Miss Elizabeth A. Beavers. Subsequently he removed
to Norway, Benton county, and in 1870 came to Nevada. In that year
Mr. Button established the first bank of Story county and conducted busi-
ness under the firm style of O. B. Button S: Son. bankers, the junior part-
ner being O. E. Button, now living in Los Ani^cles. California. For eleven
years he continued in tlie banking business hut in 1881 sold out and re-
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 327
moved to Missouri Valley, where he established the First National Bank
of that place. He was connected with financial interests there for about
nine years but disposed of his interest in the bank in 1890 and returned to
Nevada. In early life before entering banking circles he had engaged in
merchandising and from time to time as opportunity offered he made ex-
tensive and judicious investment in real estate, becoming the owner of nine
hundred and sixty acres of rich and valuable land adjoining the corpora-
tion limits of Nevada on the west. To the development and improvement
of the property he gave his personal supervision. He was a very success-
ful man, his business judgment being sound, his sagacity keen and his en-
terprise unfaltering. His labors, too, were of a character that contributed
largely to the improvement and progress of the section in which he lived,
and his commercial integrity was such as to win for him the unqualified
confidence of all. The death of Air. Button occurred in Nevada in 1891,
when he was si.xty-five years of age. He had for several years survived
his wife, who passed away in Missouri Valley, in April, 1888, at the age
of fifty-three years. Their children were six in number: Martha, the wife
of David Leonard, a resident of Lake City, Iowa ; O. E., living in Los
Angeles, California; O. J., a banker of Grand Junction, Iowa; Jay G., of
this review; Jeannette, the wife of Dr. F. H. Conner, of Nevada; and
Omer B., who died at the age of sixteen years.
Jay G. Dutton was only four years of age when his parents came to
Nevada and in the public schools of this city he began his education, which
was continued after the removal of the family to Missouri Valley. In the
latter place he made his initial step in business, becoming the first cashier
of the First National Bank of Missouri Valley, which position he occupied
for seven years, or until his removal from that place to Perry, Iowa. His
attention was then given to the lumber and grain trades and to the banking
business for seven years, when he disposed of his interests there. He
then returned to Nevada, where since 1897 he has continuously made his
home. He came here with the intention of entering the banking business
and purchased an interest in the Farmers Bank, of which he has since
been the president. He is thoroughly familiar with every phase of banking
and is conducting a business that safeguards the interests of depositors an<l
also promotes the success of the institution. He is also the owner of ex-
tensive landed interests in this county and elsewhere, much of his capital
having been placed in the safest of all investments — real estate.
In 1891 Mr. Dutton was united in marriage to Miss Lida Briggs, a
native of Nevada and a daughter of Otis and Jennie Briggs. The father
is now deceased, and the mother resides in Los Angeles, California. Unto
Mr. and Mrs. Dutton have been born two children: Dorothy and Orson B.
The family are prominent in Nevada, the hospitality of the best homes
being cordially extended them. As a citizen Mr. Dutton advocates and
supports all those measures and movements which are of practical value
in the upbuilding of the city along material, intellectual, social and moral
328 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
lines. I lis entire life has been actuated by a spirit of enterprise that is
manifest in his public relations as well as in his private business affairs.
He is resolute and determined, accomplishing what he undertakes and his
success is the logical sequence of his industry, close application and busi-
ness integrity.
FRANK E. MORRIS.
Frank E. Morris, who" has engaged continuously in the livery business
in Ames since 1893 and is also identified with agricultural interests in Story
county, was born in Whiteside county, Illinois, about two miles east of
Morrison, on the 30th of July, 1868. His parents, W'illard and Adaline
(Leonard) Morris, were botii natives of Schenectady, New York, the for-
mer born June 22, 1825, and the latter in 1830. They were married in the
Empire state and on coming to the middle west settled in Illinois, where
they remained for about eighteen years, after which they arrived in Story
county, Iowa. The mother's death occurred in January, 1901, but the
father .still survives and makes his home upon a farm north of Ames. In
their family were seven children : Addie, the wife of Chet F. Davis, living
three miles east of Gilbert, Iowa; Ella, the wife of Lester Rosenfeld, whose
home is a half mile east of Kelley ; Joie. the wife of William Kannan, re-
siding on the home farm with her father ; Walter, a resident of Franklin
township; Frank E., of this review; Gertie, at home; and Lynn, who is
conducting a liver}- .stable in Ames.
Frank E. Morris resided upon the old home farm in Illinois, upon which
his birth occurred, until he came to Iowa in October, 1875, in company
with his parents, who luade their way direct to .Ames. The family home
was established upon a farm near that city, and there he continued to aid
in the cultivation and development of the fields until 1893, when he took
up his abode in the city and established a liverj- barn. In the spring of
1909 he erected his present livery stable, which is the largest building in
Ames. It is three stories and basement, with gable roof, is fifty-one by
one hundred feet and fifty-one feet in height. It is built of glazed brick
and is used exclusively for the livery business. Its location is at the corner
of Main and Bamette avenue, and Mr. Morris has about twenty-five head
of horses, together with vehicles of all kinds, and three hearses and a num-
ber of closed carriages for funeral use. His livery barn is accorded a liberal
patronage, and the business has grown along substantial and gratifying
lines. In addition to this Mr. Morris owns eighty acres of valuable farm
land in Franklin township, three miles north of the city, and one hundred
and sixty acres in Milford township.
In 1894 occurred the marriage of Mr. Morris and Miss Ella Dodds.
who was born in Franklin township, in 1872. and is a daughter of Robert
Dodds. They liave three children : Glenn, Clair and Ralph.
HISTORY OF 'STORY COUNTY 329
Mr. Morris votes with the repubHcan party and was a member of the
city council for six years, capably discharging the duties of the office in the
interest of municipal progress and upbuilding. He belongs to the Inde-
pendent Order of Odd Fellows and has many substantial qualities that
make him a valued citizen as well as an enterprising and successful business
man.
M. O. ANDERSON.
M. O. Anderson, imbued with a progressive spirit, has made steady
advancement in his business life, winning substantial success as a farmer,
while he is now conducting profitable operations in real estate, making his
home in Roland. His birth occurred about three and a half miles south-
west of this city in Howard township, on the 3d of November, 1872, his
parents being Ove and Aggie (Orton) Anderson, both of whom were na-
tives of Norway, where they were reared and married. On crossing the
Atlantic to the new world in 1S70, they made their way direct to Story
county where they spent their remaining days, the father devoting his time
and energies to general agricultural pursuits. As the years passed he pros-
pered and was the owner of a half section of land at the time of his de-
mise, which occurred in 1894 when he was sixty-three years of age. His
wife survived him for a decade and died in Roland in 1904. His life his-
tory illustrates clearly what may be accomplished by determined purpose
and unfaltering industry, and his reliable business methods gained him the
confidence and good will of all. Mr. Anderson was the father of twelve
children, eight sons and four daughters. The first five were natives of
Norway and the others were born in Story county. O. B., a resident of
Richland township, and A. B., of Fernald, were children of the father's
first marriage. The other members of the family are: T. O., living in
Sioux Rapids, Iowa; Barbara, the wife of O. M. Ryerson, of Roland;
O. O., who is located near Roland; J. O., of Hamilton county, Iowa;
]\I. O. ; Martha and J. T., who are residents of Roland ; Axel, who died
at the age of fourteen years ; and Nellie O. and Allen O., twins, who are
residents of ]\Iinneapolis, Minnesota.
The youthful days of M. O. Anderson were spent in the usual manner
of farm lads. He worked in the fields during the summer months and at-
tended school during the winter seasons. He continued to give his father
the benefit of his services until 1897, when at the age of twenty-five years
he removed to Roland and for two and a half years thereafter conducted a
livery stable. He then worked again for a year upon the home place, at
the end of which time he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land
adjoining the corporation limits of Roland on the south. This property he
still owns and to its cultivation and development he devoted his energies
330 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
with good success until 1909. when he purchased his present home in
Roland, lie has also engaged in the live stock business and during the
past year has operated in the real-estate field. In addition to his farm prop-
erty in this county he also owns one hundred and sixty acres in Pembina
county. North Dakota.
In 1899 Mr. .Anderson was united in marriage to Miss Mary Hegland,
who was born in Roland in December, 1881, and is a daughter of M. Heg-
land. This union has been blessed with five children. Orvil. the eldest, died
in infancy, and Amos, the second, died at the age of five years. The others
are Orphie, Bel ford and Melvern.
The parents are members of the Lutheran church and Mr. Anderson
gives his political allegiance to the republican party which he has sup-
ported continuously since attaining his majority. He does not seek recog-
nition along political lines, however, but gives his time and energies to
business affairs, and liis unfaltering perseverance, his watchfulness of all
details and his improvement of oj^portunities have been the salient features
in a desirable and gratifying success.
M. L. TESDALL.
M. L. Tesdall, filling the position of county recorder, is numbered among
the native sons of Story county, his birth having occurred in Palestine
township, on the 6th of January, iSfx). He has always lived in this county
and was reared as a farm boy, spending his youthful days in the home of
his parents, Ole and Betsy (Sheldahl) Tesdall, both of whom were natives
of Norway, the former born on the 3d of September, 1836, and the latter
on the I2th of January, 1843. They left the land of the midnight sun in
early life, however, and in 1855 became residents of Story county, where
they were married. They settled upon a farm in Palestine township, where
they still make their home, being well known and worthy representatives
of the agricultural interests of this part of the state.
M. L. Tesdall, the third in order of birth in a family of nine children,
spent his youthful days in the usual manner of farm lads, working in the
fields through the summer months and attending the district schools in the
winter seasons. Tic also continued his education in Capital City Commer-
cial College at Dcs Moines. He became connected with official interests
in the court house as deputy county recorder in January, 1903, filling that
position until elected county recorder in 1906. He is now serving the third
term in that office. On the occasion of each election he received large ma-
jorities, which indicate his popularity and the confidence reposed in him
by his fellow townsmen. He is prompt, systematic and faithful in the dis-
charge of his official duties, and his record has received the commendation
and indorsement of the general i)ublic. He was elected on the republican
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 331
ticket, having been a lifelong supporter of the party. He has also served
in other offices, filling the position of township clerk in Palestine township
for four years.
In June, 1907, ]\Ir. Tesdall was married to Miss Mabel R. Sherk, and
they are well known in Nevada and throughout this portion of the state.
Mrs. Tesdall received a college education in South Dakota and taught school
for a number of years. Afterward she became a clerk in a store in Ne-
vada, being thus employed for about ten years.
The Tesdall home is a hospitable one, always open for the reception of
their many friends. Mr. Tesdall belongs to the Modern Woodman camp
and also to the Lutheran church and is ever loyal to the principles and
causes which he espouses.
J. W. LANNING.
J. W. Lanning needs no introduction to the readers of this volume, for
he has been engaged in the milling business in Ames for thirty years and
is one of the best known among the representatives of industrial activity
here. In citizenship as well as in business he has made for himself a cred-
itable record and the circle of his friends includes almost all with whom
he has been brought in contact.
He was born in Jackson county, Indiana, September 10, 1841, a son of
Louis and Laney (Wilson) Lanning, natives of Kentucky and North Caro-
lina, respectively. They were married, however, in Indiana, where they re-
sided until 1843, when they came with their family to Iowa, settling in
Iowa county. The father devoted his entire life to farming, following that
pursuit until his death, which occurred in 1870, when he was sixty-four
years of age. The mother long survived him and spent the last fourteen
years of her life in Ames with her son J. W. Lanning, passing away in
1894, at the advanced age of eighty-seven years. They were both people
of the highest respectability and enjoyed the warm regard and good will
of all who knew them. Their family numbered twelve children, six sons
and six daughters, of whom J. W. Lanning was the sixth in order of birth.
He was not quite three years of age at the time of the removal to Iowa,
so that within the borders of this state practically his entire life has been
passed. He continued a resident of Iowa county until twenty years of
age, after which he spent three years in Tama county and then returned
to Iowa county, where he made his home until his removal to Ames, his
time and energies being devoted to general mercantile pursuits. Thirty
years ago, or in 1880. he came to Ames and throughout the ensuing period
has been engaged in the milling business, conducting a flour and feed mill
for twelve years, since which time he has confined his attention entirely
to the conduct of a feed mill. He owns his mill and home property here
332 lilSTOKY UF STURY COUXTY
and is one of the worlliy and substantial citizens of Ames, reliable in busi-
ness, trustworthy at all times and faithful to the ties, duties and obligations
of citizenship.
On the 13th of February, 1862, Mr. Lanning was united in marriage to
Miss Eliza Marcellus, who was born in Xew York, December ^1, 1843,
and there resided until twelve years of age. when she accompanied her
parents. John and Hannah O. (Richardson) IMarcellus, to Iowa county,
Iowa. Her father was a native of Xew York, and her mother of Maine.
Following their removal to the middle west they continued residents of
Iowa county until their life's labors were ended in death. Mrs. Marcellus
passing away at the age of thirty-eight years, while the death of Mr. Mar-
cellus occurred in April, 1903, when he was more than eighty-seven years
of age. In their family were ten children, of whom six reached years of
maturity. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Lanning has been blessed with five
children : Myrtle, who has been successfully engaged in teaching in the
high school of Ames for the past twenty years; Mellie, the wife of Wil-
liam Taylor, of Ames; Julia, the wife of Mont Gossard, of Onawa, Iowa;
John, living in Ames; and Sadie, the wife of C. C. Morrison, of Chicago.
In his political views Mr. Lanning has always been a stalwart repub-
lican and for si.xteen years has served on the city council. He was also
a townshi]) trustee in Iowa county for a number of years and in the dis-
charge of his official duties has ever been found promiit, reliable and ener-
getic. As a member of the city council he has exercised his official preroga-
tives in support of many public measures contributing to the general wel-
fare and upbuilding of this part of the state. He belongs to the Methodist
Episcopal church and to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and in
their teachings and principles are found the rules which govern his life,
making him a man whom to know is to esteem and respect.
JOIIX QUIXCY MOORE.
The passing years are rapidly thinning the ranks of the brave men who
responded to their country's call for aid on the battlefields of the south and
the few remaining arc always conspicuous figures in the communities where
they live, .\mong those in Story county none are better known than John
Quincy Moore, who is a son of Lott and Mary E. (Glenn ) Moi>re and was
born in Clermont county, Ohio, on the "th of .Vpril, 1844. His ])arents were
bnth natives of the Buckeye state, his father being a descendant of an old
N'irginia family, while his maternal grandparents came from Ireland,^!
About 1852 the i)arents moved to Hardin county, Ohio, where the mother^H
died in i860. Three years later the father and family came to Iowa, locating
on section 9, Intlian Creek townshi|). this county. From that time until
his death in 1885 he made this state his iiome.
.lUHN (). .MdORE
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 335
John Ouincy Moore's life until he had reached manhood was not unlike,
save in detail, that of the majority of boys of that period. He attended the
sessions of the district school held in the little log schoolhouse, which was in
every respect similar to those which served as the educational centers of
the various communities of that day. At the usual age he laid aside his
text-books, feeling he had acquired sufficient education to enable him to
assume the responsibilities of life, and apprenticed himself to the black-
smith's trade, but at the end of his first year he enlisted in Company B, Forty-
fifth Ohio \'olunteers Infantry. Twelve months' service at the front,
together with the long wearisome marches and hardship and privation inci-
dent to war undermined his constitution to such an extent that he was dis-
charged on account of disability.
Returning home Mr. Moore found his father preparing to go west and
the son joined him, feeling that better opportunities were afforded him for
the pursuance of his trade in a younger community. After reaching Story
county he worked at blacksmithing, and for some years followed that trade,
running a shop in Iowa Center. He homesteaded one hundred and sixty
acres of land in Sioux county, where he lived in 1870 and 1871, but in the
latter year they were visited by the grasshopper scourge and Mr. Moore
returned to Story county and after a few more years' work at the forge he
again engaged in farming. In 1908 he left the farm and again became a
resident of Iowa Center, engaging in the mercantile business.
In 1865 he was united in marriage to Miss Martha A. Webb, of Iowa
Center, and two sons were born of this union: George M., now a farmer of
Indian Creek township ; and Ward H., w ho lives in Iowa Center. Mrs.
Moore passed away in 1894.
Mr. Moore keeps in touch with his army comrades through membership
in the James Ewing Post, G, A. R. He is one of the well known men of
his district, having made this his Tiorne the greater part of the time for the
past forty-five years. He owns twO' farms of .eighty acres each and is
accounted among the well-to-do citizens of the community.
DAVID K. BUNCE.
David K. Bunce, now living retired in Gilbert, was formerly closely
identified with agricultural interests in western Iowa. Persistent eiTort and
well directed energy-, however, brought him increasing success year by
year, and at length with a comfortable competence as the reward of his
labors he retired and now has leisure for the enjoyment of those things
which are of most interest to him.
He is a native son of the neighboring state of Illinois, his birth having
occurred in Carroll county, on the 27th of April, 1845. His parents were
James A. and Esther (Lewis) Bunce, natives of New York and Michigan,
336 HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY
respectively. They were married in llie latter state and their last days were
spent in Whiteside county, Illinois, where the father died March 28, i860,
at the age of sixty-four years, while the mother's death occurred October
31, 1876, when she had reached the age of seventy years and five months.
James A. Bunce was a blacksmith and followed that trade until si.xty years
of age but owned a farm at the time of his death. The family numbered
thirteen children, eight sons and five daughters, of whom eleven reached
years of maturity, while two died in infancy. Only four of the numner,
however, are now living. One son, L. D. Bunce, served in the Mexican
war, while C. D., D. W. and D. K. Bunce were soldiers of the Civil war.
Another brother, Dr. D. J. Bunce, was a practitioner of veterinary surgery
and a holiness preacher. The eldest brother, Deloss Bunce, was a prac-
ticing physician; and a second brother, Delaney Bunce, devoted his life to
merchandising and died in Minnesota. C. D. Bunce was a blacksmith by
trade and died at Ottumwa, Iowa. While in the Civil war he was capturcil
at Crab Orchard, Tennessee, and taken to Andersonville. where he re-
mained for fourteen months. D. W. Bunce is now a resident of St. An-
thony, Idaho.
When a young lad, David K. Bunce accompanied his parents on their
removal from Carroll county to Whiteside county. Illinois, and was then
living when, at the age of seventeen years, he enlisted on the i8th of Sep-
tember, 1862, as a member of Company H, Seventy-fifth Illinois Voluntcci
Infantry. He served until wounded on the 8th of October of that year ;it
the battle of Perry ville. Kentucky, a bullet piercing his left forearm. 11 r
was then discharged and sent home on the 19th of Januar\-. 1863. .\ftcr
remaining at home for fourteen months he reenlisted for one hundred day>'
service with the One Hundred and Fortieth Illinois Infantry, remaining
with that command until the close of the war. During his second term 01
enlistment he participated in the engagement with various troops at Mem-
phis, Tennessee. He sustained his wound only eight days after the regi-
ment had been given its arms. When the war was over he returned home
and engaged in farming in Illinois until his removal to Boone county, Iowa,
on the i-th of Xovember, 1867. He remained a resident of that couniv
for five years and has since lived in Story county, where he continuously
followed farming until ig02. when he retired from liusiness life and took
up his abode in Cilbcrt. He sold his property in this countv but is still
interested in Soinh Dakota lands, on which he has ]iut his four sons, eacji
having charge of a quarter section.
It was on the 15th of November, 1867. in Morrison, Illinois, that Mr.
Bunce was married to Miss Flizabcth I.inerode. who was born in Stark
county, Ohio, in 1S48, and with her parents, I. D. and N. J. Linerode, went
to Illinois in her girlhood days. The children of this marriage are as fol-
lows: W. A., who married Ilattie Seaner and is living in South Dakot.i
Fffie, the wife of Peter Marsden. of Boone county; Frank H.. who weddi
I.ydia Jones, of Boone county and resides in South Dakota; Bertha I., tin
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 337
wife of Oliver Bonneau, of South Dakota; Grace, the wife of Joseph
Watts, of Osceola county, Iowa; C. M., who married Sadie Gondy, and
is living in South Dakota; and Arthur, who married Gretta Hess and makes
his home in South Dakota. All of the children were born in the same
house in Lafayette township. Story county, and there has never been a
death in the family although the youngest son is twenty-four years of age.
Mr. Bunce has been a lifelong republican, supporting the party since
age conferred upon him the right of franchise. He has ever be^ loyal to
the best interests of the community and is as faithful to the interests of
his country today as when he followed the stars and stripes upon southern
battlefields. Friends and neighbors have found him a reliable, trustworthy
and progressive man and citizen, and all speak of him in terms of high
regard and good will.
J. D. SIMS.
For almost three decades J. D. Sims has lived in Story county, arriving
within its borders in March, 1882. He is today the owner of extensive and
valuable landed interests and is numbered among the leading and progres-
sive farmers of Franklin township, his home being on section 36. He was
born in McArthur, Vinton county, Ohio, March 11, 1864, a son of Simon
and Ann H. (Cramblit) Sims, who were also natives of the Buckeye state.
The father was for one hundred days a soldier of the Civil war with Com-
pany E, of the One Hundred and Forty-eighth Regiment, and died when
his son J. D. Sims was but thirteen years of age. The mother long sur-
vived him and passed away in Story county in 1902, at the age of seventy-
eight years. Their family numbered seven children : A. B., living in Ralph,
Iowa; Matilda A., the wife of H. Dunkle, of Franklin township; Sophia
L., who became the wife of W. A. Miller and died in June, 1910; M. F.,
of Washington township ; Lavina E., who died in Ohio at the age of
eighteen years; J. D. ; and Mary E., the wife of Charles Cunningham, of
Winterset, Iowa.
J. D. Sims spent the first eighteen years of his life in his native state,
working on the farm and attending school. In March, 1882, he left Ohio
and came direct to -Story county, Iowa, with his mother, brothers and sis-
ters. They took up their abode in Franklin township, where he has since
resided with the exception of one year spent in Boone county. He has
always followed farming and is now the owner of thirty-eight and a half
acres of land on section 36, Franklin township, where he makes his home.
He has also purchased two hundred acres in Warren township, a mile east
of McCallsburg, and will take possession of this in the spring of 191 1,
after which he expects to sell the smaller farm. He has been engaged ex-
tensively and successfully in stock-raising and is the owner of two Perch-
338 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
eron stallions : Gaylord, an imported animal ; and Keote, which was raised
in Iowa. 11 is live stock interests are an important branch of his business,
adding much to his success.
On the 22d of February, 1891, Mr. Sims was married to Miss Ida M.
Pohl, who was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1872, and came to Iowa
with her parents when about two years of age. She died September 20,
1906. There were seven children by that marriage : George W. ; Elva A. ;
John H.; Raymond M., who died at the age of nine months; Ethel E. ;
Willis W. ; and Edith M. On the 9th of April, 1907, Mr. Sims was again
married, his second union being with Mrs. Lura Donahue, a widow who
by her former marriage had one child, Hugh M. Donahue. Mrs. Sims is
a native of Minnesota. By her second marriage she had two children,
twins, but one died in infancy. The other is Ida M. Sims. Mr. Sims' four
oldest children are in school in Ames, and the younger members of the
household are attending the district schools.
A member of the Christian church, Mr. Sims endeavors to closely fol-
low its teachings and in all of life's relations to display the characteristics
of true and upright manhood and citizenship. He has worked earnestly
and persistently in his efifort to attain success and as the years have passed
by has prospered in his undertakings so that he is now the owner of a
good farm property in Story county.
ELI R. CRAM BUT. D. \\ S.
Dr. Eli B. Craniblit. who was formerly successfully engaged in the
practice of veterinary surgery, and is now breeding fine chickens, was born
in Guernsey county, Ohio, December 18, 1840, a son of Daniel and Eliza-
beth (Lukins) Cramblit, natives of Baltimore, Maryland. They were mar-
ried, however, in Dcersville, Ohio, and resided in that state until 1882,
when they came to Ames, where their remaining days were passed, the
father departing this life at the age of eighty-seven years, and the mother
when seventy-four years of age. Throughout the years of his connection
with business, Daniel Cramblit followed farming and milling. lie served
as a captain in the Ohio Militia at an early day and participated in one or
two skirmishes with the Indians. Later, at the time of the Civil war. he
aided in the capture of General Morgan, being one of the "squirrel hunt-
ers" of Ohio. The family numbered five sons and four daughters: Julin
.\nn, who is the widow of James Alban and is living in Hocking county.
Ohio, at the age of eighty years; Thomas, who died in Boone, Iowa; John,
who went to California in 1861 and now resides in Oregon; Mary Jane,
the wife of Jacob Nicholson, a resident of Hartford, Ohio; Eli B. ; Naomi,
the wife of W. F. Noggle, of Chillicothe, Ohio; Nancy .Ann, the wife of
I
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 339
\V. A. Perkins, of Ames; Elizabeth, who is the widow of William Cam-
eron and makes her home in Ames; and W. A., also of this city.
Dr. Cramblit remained on the home farm in Guernsey coimty. Ohio,
with his parents until after the outbreak of the Civil war, when, on the
14th of November, 1861, he enlisted as a member of Company A, Seventy-
eighth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under Colonel Leggett. The regiment was
assigned to duty with the Army of the Tennessee, and after serving for
three years he enlisted for three years more, or for the remainder of the
war. This was at Yicksburg. He took part in all of the engagements of
his regiment, including thirty-three battles and many skirmishes and he
was engaged in scouting for six months after the guerilla band. He was
made captain of twenty select men, who, splendidly mounted, would cross
the dead line at dark and hunt our guerillas and desperadoes who were
causing such trouble among the northern troops by their disregard of all
the rules of war. In this connection Dr. Cramblit served on independent
detailed service. He was mustered out at Louisville, Kentucky, and hon-
orably discharged July 18, 1865, at Columbus, Ohio.
When the war was over. Dr. Cramblit returned to his father's home in
Ross county, to which place his parents had removed during the period of
the war. There he resided for some time and engaged in buying stock,
which he shipped to the east until 1867. He then came to Ames, bringing
stock with him, purchasing four horses in Ohio at a cost of eleven hun-
dred and fifty-four dollars. He also had two hundred and forty of as fine
blooded sheep as could be found in the United States, these winning first
prize at the National Stock Show at Circleville, Ohio. The last work Dr.
Cramblit did in Ohio was to drive sheep from Ross county to New Jersey,
riding a horse all the way, and later he shipped the horse and saddle to
Ames, where he has resided continuously since 1867. Here he began
farming and in the spring of 1868 took up the practice of veterinary sur-
gery, which he followed until about four years ago, in the meantime pur-
suing a three years' course in the veterinary department of the Iowa State
College. Prior to that time he had pursued a correspondence course of
lectures on veterinary surgery and had traveled with an old doctor for five
years, treating chronic diseases of men and animals in various states. His
practice covered a radius of fifty miles in early days, and few men are
more widely or more favorably known in this part of the state than Dr.
Cramblit. Largely retired from the practice of veterinary surgery, he is
engaged in the breeding of chickens, making a specialty of fine Rhode
Island Reds since 1906. He has also been engaged in the manufacture of
medicines for thirty-five years and was the originator of King of Pain,
which, together with his other medicinal products, have been sent all over
the United States.
In March, 1868, Dr. Cramblit was united in marriage to Miss Mary
Jane Nichols, who was born in New York in 1844, and with two brothers
came to Ames, where she was married. Her parents had died during her
340 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
early girlhood. Unto this marriage were born two daughters and a son:
Rose Elizabeth, now the wife of \V. G. StocUwell, of Davenport, Iowa ;
Florence Belle, the wife of Dr. W. B. Lincoln, of Nashville, Tennessee;
and Albert D., who is a musician, giving his whole time to band and or-
chestra work. The sisters are also possessed of superior musical talent.
Dr. Cramblit has resided at his present home at No. 915 Kellogg avenue
for the past twenty-three years. He is a charter member of Ellsworth
Post, No. 30, G. A. R., and he relates many interesting incidents of iii>
army experience. He participated in the grand review at Washington.
D. C., in 1865, when over broad Pennsylvania avenue there was suspended
a banner bearing the words, "The only debt which the country owes that
she cannot pay is the debt which she owes to her soldiers." He was among
the number who volunteered to run the blockade at Vicksburg and helped
fortify the fleet which made the run. The last bullet that was fired at
.Sherman's army was aimed at Dr. Cramblit, who was on the skirmish line
just before darkness set in and after the Confederate troops had surren-
dered. He was at that time caring for a wounded comrade by an oak
stump and the next day twelve bullets were found in that stump that had
been fired at him. Dr. Cramblit, however, carried his comrade, Milton M.
Turner, to Cambridge, Ohio, a distance of two miles, for the latter had
lost much blood from Iiaving an arm shot away. In his fighting against
the guerillas the Doctor had many narrow escapes, for the service was
found a most difficult and dangerous one. He never faltered, however, in
the performance of his duty and the same spirit of loyalty in citizenship
has characterized his entire life, making him an honored resident of Story
county.
C. A. BATMAN.
On the roster of county officials in Story county appears the name of
C. A. Batman, county auditor of Story county. With the exception of a
period of four years spent upon a farm near Nevada, he has been a life-
long resident of this city, his birth having here occurred on the 15th of
August, 1875. His parents were J. E. and Avanda (Purkheiser) Batman.
The father was born in Kentucky. December 13, 1832, and the mother was!
a native of Indiana. They came to Iowa following their marriage and both I
died in Nevada, the mother passing away on the loth of August, i897,J
while tlie father survived until December 25, 1909. In their family werd
four children : A. A., of this city ; Anna C, who is a school teacher i^
California; F. A., a farmer of Washington township; and C. A., of thil
review.
The youthful days of C. A. I'atman were devoted to the duties of th^
schoolroom, the pleasures of the playground and such tasks as were as
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 341
signed to him by parental authority. He passed through consecutive grades
in the pubHc schools until graduated from the high school of Nevada in
March, 1895. He also pursued a commercial course in Capital City Busi-
ness College at Des Moines. During his school days he learned the painter's
trade, which he followed at intervals until 1903. He also spent four years
in farming on his own account near Nevada and then entered the county
auditor's office as deputy. In the fall of 1910 he was elected by the re-
publican party for the position of county auditor. He has proven capable
and methodical in the discharge of his duties and is ever loyal to the trust
reposed in him.
On the 2 1 St of November, 1900, Mr. Batman was united in marriage
to Miss Alta Morse, who was born in Wisconsin, August 28, 1877, and
came to Story county with her parents, C. M. and Lena Morse, who are
now living in Nevada. Mrs. Batman died March 5, 1909. leaving a little
daughter, Deborah Mary.
In his fraternal relations Mr. Batman is a Knight of Pythias and a
member of the Modern Woodmen camp. He has been a lifelong repub-
lican, having been reared in the party to which he has given his support
since age conferred upon him the right of franchise. He has a wide ac-
quaintance, and his genial manner, cordial disposition and genuine worth
have gained for him an extensive circle of warm friends.
REV. FRANCIS C. RENIER.
Rev. Francis C. Renier, pastor of St. Cecelia's Catholic church of
Ames, was born in Dubuque, Iowa, December 9, 1877, a son of Philip J.
and Mary E. (Strueber) Renier. The father was born in Belgium in
1858 and the mother in Dubuque in 1854. When a lad of five years Philip
Renier accompanied his parents to the new world, and one year later the
family home was established in Dubuque where he has resided continuously
since, being now superintendent of the Milwaukee shops of that place. He
has devoted his entire life to car-building, in which line of work he has
made steady advancement through his ability and close application. His
wife was a daughter of Christ and Pauline (Yunge) Strueber, botji of
whom were natives of Germany and on coming to America settled in
Dubuque where Mr. Strueber passed away but his widow still makes her
home there.
The Rev. Francis C. Renier is the eldest of seven children. He at-
tended the parochial schools of Dubuque and later entered St. Joseph's
College of that city, completing a six years' course in 1895. He devoted
three years to the study of theology in Grand Seminary in Montreal, after
which he was ordained to the priesthood. Later he spent two years in
study in the Catholic University at Washington, D. C. and received his
342 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
present appointment in 1902. In addition to the regular work of the church
he has organized llie Newman Club for young men. mostly college boys,
and in this connection an excellent work is being done. He also has charge
of Sts. Peter and Paul's church five and a half miles northwest of Gilbert
in this county, doing mission work there throughout the eight years of his
pastorate at St. Cecelia's church in Ames. Under his guidance the present
cluircli was erected as was also the parish house, and the work of tlie church
has been fully organized in all of its departments, proving a strong force
for Catholic conversion and churcli work in this locality.
ALFRED P. EDDY.
Alfred P. Eddy, a prosperous and well known agriculturist of Story
county, has lived on his present farm in Sherman township for the past
thirty-six years but for forty-six years he has been a resident of this county.
His birth occurred in Ohio in August, 1839, his parents being Allen and
Sophia (Beardsley) Eddy, who were natives of New York and New
Hampshire respectively. The maternal grandfather of our subject partici-
pated in the Revolutionary war, serving throughout the entire conflict.
.Allen Eddy, the father of Alfred P. Eddy, removed to Illinois in 1853. .set-
tling on a farm in Ivane county, where he made his home until called to his
final rest in 1875. The demise of his wife occurred in Ohio.
Alfred P. Eddy accompanied his father to Illinois, where he obtained
his education in the district schools. He remained a resident of the Prairie
state until 1865, which year witnessed his arrival in Story county, Iowa.
He spent ten years in Richland township but for thirty-six years has re-
sidetl in Sherman township, his farm being located on section 6. For his
first tract of land, comprising eighty acres, he paid but twelve dollars an
acre. Later he extended the boundaries of the place by an additional pur-
chase of eighty acres, so that his farm now embraces a quarter section of
rich and productive land. In connection w-ith the tilling of the soil he has
also devoted considerable attention to the raising of cattle and hogs for the
market, meeting with success in both branches of his business. He has
long been numbered among the representative and leading citizens of the
community and acts as president of the Zearing & Johnson Grove Tele-
phone Company. He can relate many interesting incidents of pioneer days
when the district was but sparsely settled and largely undeveloped. During
the period of his early residence here the railroad went only as far as Ne-
vada and between his abode and State Center, a distance of fourteen miles,
there was but one house. On the road to Zearing there was also only one
house — that belonging K) Thomas Thatcher. Mr. Eddy recalls the fact that
on the 5th of July. 1872, he washed with snow and can rememb-^r the time
when the snow was six feet deep. He herded cattle throughout Iowa for a
.\li;. AND MKS. A. I'. KDin
I
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 345
great many years and at one time drove twenty-three hundred head through
the northern part of the state.
In 1863, in Kane county, Illinois, Mr. Etldy was united in marriage to
Miss Sarah A. Alark, her parents being Aaron and Eliza Mark, the former
a native of New York and the latter of Vermont. Mrs. Mark, whose birth
occurred in January, 1828, came to this county with her daughter and son-
in-law in 1865. Mr. and Mrs. Eddy are the parents of four children, the
record of whom is as follows. Frank Sherman, who was born in Kane
county, Illinois, on the 27th of April, 1864, wedded Miss Susan Hicks, of
Sherman township, and is cultivating a tract of land just east of his fa-
ther's farm. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and also a
worthy exemplar of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to the lodge at
Zearing. Orlando M., whose birth occurred on the 4th of March, 1869,
married Miss Belle Fisher and lives on a farm northwest of the old home-
stead. He intends to take up his abode in Howard county, Iowa, in the
near future. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the
Methodist Episcopal church. Dwight Wilson, whose natal day was Sep-
tember 26, 1879, wedded Miss \'iola Thomas and is now successfully en-
gaged in farming. William Cooper, who was born on the 19th of Septem-
ber, 1881, resides on his father's farm and also has land of his own in
Sherman township.
Mr. Eddy gives his political allegiance to the democratic party and is
now serving as chairman of the township board. The cause of education
has ever found in him a warm friend and as a school director he has done
much to further its interests. He is a valued member of Pacific Lodge,
No. 469, A. F. & A. M., of Zearing, and attends the services of the Meth-
odist Episcopal church. He has lived his life to good purpose, recogniz-
ing and utilizing each opportunity as it has come to him, while the methods
which he has ever pursued have been such as inspired- the trust, confidence
and good will of all with whom he has been associated.
CHARLES F. RUTH.
An excellent farm of one hundred and ninety acres on sections 11 and
14, Franklin township, is the property of Charles F. Ruth, and indicates in
its well kept appearance the careful supervision which he gives to the place
and the modern methods which he follows in its cultivation. He was born
in Lake county, Illinois, October 7, 1856, and is a son of Irwin and Leah
(Brown) Ruth, both of whom were natives of Berks county, Pennsylvania.
When eighteen years of age the father made his way to Freeport, Illinois,
and thence walked to Lake county, that state, a distance of one hundred
miles. He secured sixty acres of land which is now included within the
corporation limits of Chicago, after which he walked back to Freeport,
346 HISTURV OF STORY COUNTY
completing the journey in two days. Me was then married and took his
bride to his sixty-acre farm, to which he afterward added by additional
purchase. He became the owner of two farms, aggregating one hundred
and ninety acres of land, and in the summer of 1870 he sold this property
at sixty dollars per acre. In the spring of 1S71 he arrived in Ames, ac-
companied by his family, and soon after settled on a farm about a mile
from the place, upon wliicli Charles F. Ruth now resides. The father, how-
ever, was not long permitted to enjoy his new home, for he passed away
in 187s at the age of fifty-five years. The mother died in 1881 at the age
of sixty-one years. Their family numbered seven children : Hannah, who
is the widow of Michael Grctlen and resides in Gilbert; Lavina, the wife
of L. Oliver, also of Gilbert; Carrie, the wife of Floyd Sibley, of Los
Angeles, California; William, who married Rachel Bingham and lives in
Salem, Oregon; Linus, who was a judge in one of the Chicago courts and
died in 1908; Charles F., of this review; and Alma, the wife of Frank
Palmer, of Arapahoe, Nebraska.
Charles F. Ruth spent the first fifteen years of his life in his native
county and during that period became familiar with the duties and labors
of the home farm. He then accompanied his parents on their removal to
Story county in 1871 and has since resided in Franklin township. The
occupation to which he was reared he has made his life work and in 1880
he located upon his present farm which was then a tract of raw prairie
land. The fact that it is today a well improved property is due to his
energy, determination and unfaltering industry. The place comprises one
hundred and ninety acres of rich and arable .soil on sections 1 1 and 14,
Franklin township, and in addition to the cultivation of the fields he is
engaged extensively and successfully in the breeding of Chester White hogs
and Jersey cattle. Besides his farming interests Mr. Ruth has other busi-
ness connections. He had the management and was secretary of the Gilbert
Creamery Company for five years and he was one of the organizers and
the first secretary of the West Milford Telephone Company. He has been
a hunter from the age of eight years and finds his chief recreation as a
follower of Nimrod. He killed eight wild carrier pigeons in Plymouth
county in 1878, these being the last seen in Iowa. He has killed all the
game native to this state and in New Brunswick, in September, icpS, he
killed a moose weighing eleven hundred pounds, the head of which he had
mounted, and it now adorns his home. On the same hunt be succeeded in
getting two Ijlack bears, the hides of which he has in his home. lie spent
three weeks on that hunting trip and felt well repaid.
On the 2d of November, 1880, Mr, Ruth was united in marriage to
Miss Minerva B. Kooser, who was born in Milford township. Story county,
September 19, 1861, and is a daughter of George 15. and Margaret
(Boucher) Kooser, both of whoin were natives of Pennsylvania and were
there married. On coming to Iowa in 185(1, the father entered land from
the government. He devoted many years to farming and passed away on
HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY 347
the 26th of Xovember, 1S96. His widow still survives and is now a resi-
dent of Ames. They were the parents of seven sons and four daughters.
Unto -Mr. and Mrs. Ruth have been born two sons: Chelsea I., who man-
ages the farm; and Clifton L.. at home. The elder son is married and has
one child, Constance Alene, who was born Alarch 7, 1910.
;\Ir. Ruth is entitled to membership with the Sons of the American Revo-
lution, for one of his great-grandfathers in the maternal line was John
Clontz, a native of Germany, who was with Washington's army at Valley
Forge. In his political views Mr. Ruth was formerly a republican but in
later years has supported the prohibition party. He has served as township
clerk and for sixteen years has been secretary of the school board of
Franklin township. He holds membership in the Cumberland. Presbyterian
church at Gilbert and also belongs to the Odd Fellows lodge there. In
these associations are found the principles and rules which govern his con-
duct and which have made him an upright, honorable man, respected by
all who know him. In business, too, he has displayed such sterling quali-
ties as have gained for him warm regard and the confidence of all with
whom he has had dealings.
EDWARD M. McCALL.
With the exception of six years spent away at school, Edward M. Mc-
Call has resided continuously in Story county from the time of his birth,
which occurred in Nevada, on the 30th of August, 1873, and in a profes-
sion where advancement depends entirely upon broad learning and merit
he has worked his way steadily upward, being recognized as one of the
strong members of the Story county bar. His parents were the Hon. T. C.
and Mary A. (Boynton) McCall, who to prepare their son for the practical
and responsible duties of life gave him excellent educational advantages.
He pursued his studies through consecutive grades in the public schools
of Nevada but left the high school before his graduation and went to
Cornell College at Mount Vernon, where he spent a year in special work in
the preparatory department. He afterward entered the Ames Agricultural
College in the fall of 1891 and for three years was a student there, com-
pleting one-half of the work of the junior year. He next took up the study
of law, entering the law school at Iowa City, from which he was graduated
in 1896. He at once located for practice in Nevada, where he has since
followed his profession, and in 1900 he formed a partnership with J. A.
Fitchpatrick under the firm style of Fitchpatrick (S; McCall. He has
never specialized in any particular branch of the profession but has con-
tinued in the general practice of law and a large and distinctively repre-
sentative clientage has been accorded him. For two years, from 1900 until
1902, he was city attorney and for four years, from 1905 until 1909, he was
county attorney. His ability is manifest in his strong and logical argu-
348 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
ments which follow the careful preparation of his cases and in the many
verdicts which he has won favorable to his clients' interests.
In 1896 Mr. McCall was united in marriage to Miss Genevieve Louise
Fitchjjatrick, a native of Nevada and a daughter of the Hon. J. A. Fitch-
patrick, who is mentioned elsewhere in this volume. This marriage has
been blessed with two interesting little daughters: Mary, five years of age;
and Harriet Louise, three years of age.
The parents hold membership in the Presbyterian church and are promi-
nent in the social circles of the city. Mr. AlcCall also belongs to the Twen-
tieth Century Club of Nevada. He gives his political allegiance to the
republican jjarty. which he has stanchly advocated since age conferred upon
him the right of franchise. He is interested in everything that pertains to
the general w-elfare. and his cooperation can be counted upon to further
every movement for the jniblic good. For the past si.x years he has served
as a member of the board of trustees of the public library. He has at-
tained high rank in Masonry, belonging to Nevada Lodge, No. 99, A. F. &
A. M.; Nevada Chapter, No. 92, R. A. M.; and Excalibur Cominandery.
No. 13, K. T., of Boone, Iowa. He also belongs to the Knights of Pythias
fraternity and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. In strictly profes-
sional lines he is connected with the .Story County P)ar .Association and he
believes in upholding the highest standards of the profession. It is the
theorj' of the law that the counsel is to aid the court in securing justice,
and no member of the profession in Nevada is more careful to conform his
practice to a high standard of professional ethics than Mr. McCall. He
gives to the client the service of his legal talent and of unwearied industry
and broad learning, yet he never forgets that there are certain things due
to tlie court, to his own self-respect and. above all, to justice and a righteous
administration of the law, which neither the zeal of an advocate nor the
pleasure of success permits him to disregard.
FRANK RAY.
The Ray family needs no introduction to the citizens of Story county,
as for three generations it has been represented by men who have proven
most worthy of the esteem in which they have at all times been held.
Frank Ray, a son of Samuel and Martha (Kurtz) Ray, was born in Indian
Creek township on the 27th of March, 1881. Both of his parents are also
natives of this county, being the children of early pioneers, and were reared
and married in the county, where they have spent their lives.
Frank Ray's early years were spent as are those of the average boy in
the rural districts. He attended the common schools, perfonned such
duties about the farm as were assigned him by parental authority and spent
his leisure hours in the manner of the majority of young people. At the
usual age he laid aside his text-books, feeling he had ac<]uircd sufficient
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 349
education to enable him to assume the responsibilities of manhood, and
began his career. He decided to follow the vocation of his father and
grandfather, which was that of farming, and at the age of eighteen years
left the parental roof to work as a farm hand in the vicinity of his home.
He had not yet cast his first vote when he established a home for him-
self by his marriage on the 25th of December, 1901, to Miss Ada May
Barker, a daughter of Charles D. and Emma (Eastman) Barker, also
pioneers of Story county. After marriage the young people began life
on the farm of Mrs. Ray's father, located in Union township. They re-
mained there for five years and then removed to the Monahan farm in
Indian Creek township and after residing on the latter place for two years
they located upon the farm of Mr. Ray's father, which is situated on sec-
tion 16, Indian Creek township, where they have since continued to live.
This farm contains one hundred and thirty-two and one-half acres of well
improved land. Here Mr. Ray is engaged in the raising of shorthorn
cattle and Poland China and Duroc Jersey hogs. He has been most suc-
cessful in his specialty and is one of the best known young cattlemen in
this section of the country.
Two children have come to brighten the home of Mr. and Mrs. Ray :
Hazel Pearl and Ethel Levon. Ever since he has acquired the right of
suffrage Mr. Ray has cast his vote for the candidates of the republican
party. He has never taken an active part in politics to the extent of aspiring
to public office or seeking political honors, preferring to give his entire
time and attention to the demands of his private interests. He has just
reached the age when most men are acquiring a foothold in the business
world but he is quite firmly established. While attaining this position he
has ever won and retained the good-will and esteem of all with whom he
has come in contact. He is regarded as one of the promising young citi-
zens of the community" where he lives, and both he and Mrs. Ray are
highly esteemed.
OLE L. FROWICK.
It is doubtful whether any element of American citizenship has con-
tributed in proportion to its numbers more valuable service to the up-
building of the country than the Norwegian. Possessing the characteristics
of energy, perseverance and thrift, the Norwegian-Americans have ac-
quitted themselves with the highest credit and through their indomitable
industry have established comfortable homes wherever they have settled.
Ole L. Frowick, of Palestine township, comes of stanch Norwegian paren-
tage on both sides of the house and, judging by what lie has accomplished,
is a worthy representative of conscientious and hard-working ancestry.
He was born in Palestine township. Story county, December 11, 1S69,
a son of Lars E. and Sarah (Cleveland) Frowick, both natives of Norway.
The parents were reared in the mother country and then came to America.
350 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Mr. Frowick purchasing a farm south of Huxley, in Palestine township,
Story county, Iowa, upon which he resided until 1872. He then sold his
place and bought land in another locality in the same township, which
became tlie family homestead. Here he continued until his death, which
occurred in 1901. The mother was called away in 1907. They were both
faithful members of the Lutheran church and had many friends in Palestine
township.
Ole L. Frowick was the only son of his parents and was reared under
highly favorable conditions for a useful life. He attended the public
schools and when not occupied with his books assisted in the work of the
fields. After reaching manhood he still continued upon the home farm,
which he purchased in 1898. It is situated on sections 21, 28 and 29, Pales-
tine township, comprising originally two hundred and eighty acres, to
which he has added by purchase, so that the farm now includes three
hundred and fourteen acres and is a highly pleasing feature of the land-
scape. It is under thorough cultivation and yields excellent harvests each
year.
Mr. Frowick gives his support to the republican party but official honors
have never had any attraction for him as his interest is centered in his
business, to which he devotes his best energies. His religious faith is ex-
pressed by membership in the Lutheran church, to which he is a liberal
contributor. A representative farmer of the county, he has attained a
goodly measure of prosperity, and it requires no prophet to foretell for
him a successful future.
FRAXK NICKERSON FO\VLER.
Frank Nickerson Fowler, county treasurer of Story county, is one of
the be.'^t known men of central Iowa. He has been for twenty-five years a
resident of the state and in business, political and social affairs has achieved
a distinct success. He was born at Searsport, Maine. June 11. 1858, a son
of Major James N. and Mary Ellen (Wentworth) Fowler. He comes of
good Scotch and English ancestry, members of the family on botli sidc'^
of the house having served most creditably in the patriot army during the
Revolutionary war. The founders of the Fowler family in America crossed
the ocean with tlie Pilgrim Fatiiers and the mother of our subject clainieil
the Carvers among her ancestors and was also a descendant of the Curia!
family of Scotlan<l.
James N. Fowler was educated in the common schools of the Pine
Tree state and began his business career as an apprentice to a merchant
tailor, also learning the haberdashery business. The male members of the
family were largely sea captains and John Fowler, the father of James N..
after retiring from the sea, opened a haberdashery store at Searsport, with
I
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 351
which his son became connected, the latter succeeding the father in busi-
ness. About fourteen years ago he retired and althougli now quite ad-
vanced in age is strong and hearty physically and mentally his powers are
unimpaired, although he has now reached the age of seventy-six years.
He was successful in his business and acquired a competence which he
now enjoys. He attends the Congregational church, of which his father
was a deacon. Fraternally he is connected with the Masonic order and is
a Knight Templar in that organization. He has been allied with the
democratic party ever since casting his first vote and has been an active
worker in its support, although never an aspirant for political honors. In
response to the first call of President Lincoln for troops he offered his
services to the Union, enlisting for three months in a Maine regiment.
Later he reenlisted, becoming a member of Company K, Twenty-sixth
Alaine \'olunteer Infantry, and rose to the rank of major.
The mother of our subject was born in September, 1834, and passed
away June 20, 1883. She was a daughter of James Wentvvorth, who was
a ship carpenter and married Eliza Curial, whose family settled in Penn-
sylvania at an early day. Three children blessed the union of Mr. and
Mrs. Fowler: Frank X., the subject of this review; James X., Jr., who
became a merchant tailor and died at Ames, Iowa, in 1907; and Ellen M.,
of Dorchester, Massachusetts, the wife of Albert Cleveland, a traveling
salesman for a Boston house.
Frank X. Fowler received his preliminary education in the public schools
of Camden, Maine, and worked his way through the academic course, being
ambitious to take up the profession of law. After graduating from the
academy, however, he and his companions were seized with the sea fever
and shipped on board a merchantman, leaving friends and country far
behind in a long voyage to foreign ports. The young seaman spent about
ten years on the ocean, visiting the principal ports of the world and gaining
a knowledge of human nature that has since proved of great value. In
Xovember, 1886, Air. Fowler came west and after stopping for a few
months in Des Moines, Iowa, settled at Ames, where he continued for
t^venty-two years as manager of the B. A. Lock wood Grain Company of
Des Moines. In 190S he was elected treasurer of Story county and re-
moved to Xevada, being reelected to the same office in 1910. He has dis-
charged his duties with rare fidelity and with special regard for the in-
terests of the people, hence his administration has met the hearty approval
of the citizens of the county irrespective of their party affiliation.
In 1883 Mr. Fowler was united in marriage to Miss Lottie L. Treat,
who was born at Searsport, Maine, September 3, 1861. She was the
daughter of James B. and Alary Ann (Pendleton) Treat and came of
Revolutionary stock. Three children were born of this union : Albert,
who is now chief of the final result division of the census department at
Washington, D. C. ; Mona L., now a student in the Xevada high school ;
and Donald Wentworth, also attending school. The mother of these chil-
352 HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY
dren having passed away in 1903, Mr. Fowler was married in 1906 to
Miss Hattie D. Brouhard, who was born at Colo, Iowa, March 5, 1877,
and is a daughter of Bainie and Mary Brouliard. The father, who was a
well known farmer of Xew Albany township, passed away in 1908. The
home of Mr. and Mrs. Fowler has been brightened by the birth of one
child, Dorothy Lucile, who was born May 30, 1910.
Mr. and Mrs. Fowler are both members of the Universalist church.
He gives his adherence to the republican party, of which he has been a
stanch supporter for many years. He served for nine years as a member
of the Ames school board and was also one of the organizers of the Ames
Commercial Club, filling the ix>sition of secretary-treasurer for eleven
years. He is connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and
the Knights of Pythias and has passed through all of the chairs in the
latter organization. As a Mason he has become well known in Iowa,
fdling nearly all of the subordinate offices in the several bodies, and also
presiding over the lodge, chapter and council. He became a member of
Arcadia Lodge, No. 249, of Ames, in 1894, and of Three-Times-Three
Chapter, No. 92, R. A. M., of Nevada, in 1896, receiving the degrees of
Royal and Select Master in Joshua Chapter, No. 127, in 1898. He was a
charter member of Gebal Council, No. 5, R. & S. M., of Ames, in 1900,
being given the commandery degrees in Excalibur Commandery, No. 13.
of Boone, in 1898. He received the distinguished honor of the Order of
High Priesthood September 4, 1901. He has been a regular attendant
upon the assemblies of the Grand Council almost since its inception and
was given merited recognition in 1906 by being elected illustrious grand
principal conductor of the work. In the following year he was elected right
illustrious deputy grand master and at the annual assembly held in Water-
loo in October, 1908, was made most illustrious grand master of the Grand
Council of Royal and Select Masters of the state of Iowa. Genial, courteous
and agreeable in manner, he has made a host of friends and is undoubtedly
one of the most popular citizens in Story county. Happy in his family
relations and successful in business and public life, he has just reason to
congratulate himself upon the selection of Iowa as his home.
CHARLES E. TAYLOR.
Charles E. Taylor, who for twenty years has been identified with build-J
ing operations in .Ames, where a liberal patronage is accorded him. waa
born in Le Raysville, Bradford county, Pennsylvania, .\ugiist 2, 1844, an^
is a son of Nelson and Martha (Fletcher) Taylor, who were also native
of Le Raysville. The ancestry of the family is traced back to John Taylot
who came from Sussex county. England, in 1^)30. and settled at Lynn
Massachusetts. He had two sons, John and Thomas. The former's wifd
('. K. lAM.OU
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 355
Mrs. Rhoda Taylor, was a widow when she married John Taylor. They
settled at Windsor, Connecticut, in 1639. and had five children but three
died, leaving John and Thomas as the surviving members of the family.
In 1646 their father sailed for England, leaving the family at Windsor,
but the vessel was lost at sea. The legend concerning this lost ship was
afterward put in poetic form by Henry W. Longfellow under the title The
Phantom Ship. The widow and her two sons, John and Thomas, aged six
and four years at the time of the father's death, continued in Windsor for
some time, but in 1655 Mrs. Taylor became the wife of Mr. Hoyt and re-
moved to Norwalk, Connecticut. When Thomas Taylor was fourteen
years of age the town of Norwalk granted him land as ''one of the children
of the town." He was married February 14, 1668, to Rebecca, a daughter
of Edward Ketchum, of Stratford, and on the 14th of October, 1669,
his name was presented as one who desired to be made a "freeman." In
the same year he was made a member of the general court from Norwalk.
In 1685 he became one of the first eight settlers of Danbury, Connecticut,
and was chosen ensign of the military company. He was also the first
representative to the general court from Danbury, serving in 1697, 1701
and 1706. He died January 17, 1735, aged ninety-two years.
His fifth son, Nathan Taylor, was born at Norwalk, February 7, 1682,
and in 1706 married Hannah, a daughter of Lieutenant Daniel and Mary
Benedict. He enlisted in Colonel Waterbury's regiment and served in the
Revolutionary war as sergeant from May until October, 1775. He died
in 1 781, at the age of ninety-nine years, leaving four sons. He had acted
as color bearer in the Revolutionary war at the remarkable age of eighty-
nine years and nine months, while his grandson John Taylor, who was
born at Danbury, Connecticut, June 12, 1754, marched by his side carry-
ing a musket. Nathan Taylor received an honorable discharge at the ex-
piration of his term of enlistment. He preached his farewell sermon as
a minister of the Congregational church when ninety-six years of age and
died in Connecticut at the notable old age of ninety-nine years. The
family is noted for longevity. In 1755 Thomas Taylor, the great-great-
grandfather of Charles Taylor of this review, was killed at Lake George,
New York, while fighting for the British in the French antl Indian war.
Various ancestprs of Charles E. Taylor bore arms in the difYerent wars
in which the country has been engaged. His grandfather, Abraham Taylor,
served in the Revolution under command of Captain Camp and Colonel
Canfield. The great-grandfather. Lieutenant Perrin Ross, was one of the
heroes in the war for independence and was killed in the Wyoming mas-
sacre. Another great-grandfather. Brigadier General Samuel Fletcher, of
Vermont, was in the Revolution and still another, Elinas Brister. who
served as a private. In another ancestral line is found the record of Ithel
Stone, of Hartford, Connecticut, who was a great-great-grandfather of
Charles E. Taylor and served as a colonel in the Revolutionary war.
Vol. n— 18
356 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Nelson Taylor, the father, born in Lc Raysville, I'ennsylvania, in iSuk
died at Ames, Story county, Iowa, at the venerable age of ninety-twc
after residing here for twenty-five years. He had been a pioneer of the
middle west of 1855, at which time he settled in Illinois. He had followed
the tanners trade in early life but after his removal to the west carried on
agricultural pursuits and was actively connected with farming up to the
time of his death, being ill only four days. His wife, who was born in
Le Raysville, Pennsylvania, June 20, 1820, died in Illinois, in 1868. In
their family were six sons and two daughters, of whom four sons and a
daughter are yet living. The oldest brother, Byron F. Taylor, served for
three years as a soldier in the Civil war. After losing his first wife lii^
father married again.
Charles E. Taylor was a youth of eleven years when he accompanied
his parents on their removal from Pennsylvania to Illinois. He remained
with them uiion the farm in the latter state until twentj' years of age and
then started west. He traveled over the Union Pacific Railroad when its
terminal was at Cheyenne. He then returned to Nebraska and from there
retraced his steps into Iowa. Between the ages of twenty and thirty-one
years he largely devoted his time to teaching in the common schools through
the winter months and a portion of the summer seasons were .spent in Illi-
nois. In 1868 he came to Ames but the following year his mother's death
recalled him to Illinois, where he again taught school for one term. In
March, 1870, he made his way to the Pacific coast and conducted a meat
market in Amador county, California, hm in .\ugust, 1871, returned to
Illinois, where he again followed the profession of teaching for two terms.
After that ])criod he came again to Iowa and has since been a resident of
Ames with the exception of three years, which were spent in Del Rio,
Texas. He was engaged in clerking in .\mes for fourteen years and for
the past twenty years has been engaged in carpenter work. As time has
passed on he has met with success in this undertaking and is now in com-
fortable circumstances.
On the 1st of December, 1874, Mr. Taylor was united in marriage to
Miss Nancy M. Wilder, of Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, and unto them
have been born four children: F.dna M.. the wife of Silas Kalsen, of Wood-
bine. Iowa ; Phila Etta, at home ; Harry N.. who is employed by the North-
western Railroad Company and resides at Boone, Iowa; and Charles E.,
who is a conductor with the Chicago & Northwestern at Des Moines. There
are also two grandsons and three granddaughters and Mr. Taylor also has
two half-brothers and a half-sister living in Story county.
Mr. Taylor is a well informed man, keejiing in toudi with the general
interests of the day. 1 le is also greatly interested in the geological forma-
tion of the county and has written some articles upon that subject. He
belongs to Iowa Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution and
since twenty-one years of age has been a member of the Masonic frater-
HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY 357
nity. He was initiated into the order in Illinois and is now secretary of
Ames Lodge. His many sterling traits of character have gained him warm
regard. His periods of residence in different parts of the country have
given him intimate knowledge of America and her opportunities and
conditions and he is thoroughly content to make his home in Iowa, for he
believes that no state has been more richly endowed by nature.
JOHN B. ANGELO.
John B. Angelo, one of the well known retired farmers of Story county,
who is now serving as mayor in the town of Maxwell, was born in Morgan
county, Illinois, on the 26th of June, 1846, a son of Samuel W. and Rhoda
(Burwell) Angelo. His parents were both natives of Pennsylvania, his
father removing to Illinois when a child with his parents, but the mother
remained in the Keystone state until she had reached womanhood when she,
too, came west and settled in Illinois. Some years after their marriage Mr.
and Mrs. Angelo decided to remove to Iowa and in 1853 they located in
Polk county near Rising Sun, where, two years later the father died. In
1857 Mrs. Angelo with her family of six children went to Jasper county
to reside upon a farm which the father had entered prior to his death and
there she continued to live up to the time of her death in 1894.
The childhood and youth of Mr. Angelo was somewhat harder than
that of many boys. Being the son of a widow and one of the older chil-
dren in the family he was required to perform a large portion of the work
about the farm. His education was acquired in the district schools, the
sessions of which were brief and the standard of scholarship at that period
not of the best. When yet not much more than a lad his oldest brother
left home and located in Nebraska and the next older entered the army,
going to the front for the Union as a volunteer during that momentous
period in the early '60s, thus leaving our subject the entire responsibility
and care of the home farm. He managed the old homestead first for his
mother and later as a renter until 1902, when he retired from active work
and removed to Maxwell, where he has since continued to reside.
Ever since attaining the age which conferred upon him the full rights
of citizenship Mr. Angelo has been a strong partisan of republicanism.
feeling that party's policy of the centralization of power and protection
best subserved the interests of the majority. He has always taken a more
or less active interest in politics, having served for several years as town-
ship trustee when a resident of Jasper county, and twice being the choice
of his fellow citizens for the office of justice of the peace, and in both
capacities he proved himself well worthy of their confidence. His excellent
guardianship of the public interests and his strong advocacy of every
movement which promised the betterment of conditions essential to the
358 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
community proved him to be a man of progressive ideas and one well able
to direct and fill any local office. As justice of the peace he proved him-
self fully as competent, his decisions in all cases meeting with the approval
of the general public. Since his retirement and residence in Ma.xwell he
has served si.x years in the town council, and in the spring of 1909 he was
elected mayor and is still the incumbent of that office.
Mr. Angelo was united in marriage on the 9th of January, 1876, to
Miss Ada R. Kimberly, a daughter of Isaiah and Mary Ann (Cleverly)
Kimberly, of Jasper county, where they continue to reside, he at the vener-
able age of eighty-five years and she having passed her seventy-ninth
anniversary. One cliild was born to this couple, W'yatt B., who is practic-
ing law in Plainfield, Wisconsin.
Mr. and Mrs. Angelo are both members of the Christian church, of
which he has been a trustee for years. He is also identified with the
Masonic fraternity, being a member of Herald Lodge, Xo. 455, A. F. &
A. M. Me is one of the proy^ressive men of his community, who has
always been held in high regard, both he and Mrs. Angelo being popular
in both church and social circles of Maxwell.
HORACE GREELEY HAXDSAKER.
Among the native sons of this county whose close application and in-
dustry have been rewarded by a comfortable competence is Horace Greeley
Handsaker. He is the son of William and Emily Ilandsaker and was born
on section 22, Richland township, on the 3d of January, 1870. The mother
was born in Indiana and was reared in Illinois but the father was an
Englishman by birth and came to the United States when he was a young
man,, settling in Richland township, this county, where he met and married
Emily Wyatt. Of the eight children born of this union six are living.
The boyhood and youth of H. G. Handsaker differed but in detail
from that of the majority of boys who are reared in the rural districts.
It was the usual routine of school, work about the farm and such sport-
as are usually enjoyed by strong and energetic lads. His education wa.-
acquired in the district schools of the township in wliich he was born and
reared. On laying aside his text-books he assisted his fatlier in the work
of the home farm until he had reached the age of twenty years, when he
began life for himself. For two years he served in the capacity of a farm
hand, but at ihc (.nd of that period he was able to become somewhat more
indci)endcnt and rented a farm from his father, which he continued to
culli\atc tor five years. I lis thrift, good management and hard work were
rewanUd during that period to the extent that he was able to become a
property owner and he bought two hundred and forty acres on section 22,
Richland town.ship, where he still resitles. Later he investeil in one hun-
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
359
dred and sixty acres of land in Worth county and he has more recently
acquired three hiuidred and twenty acres in the Panhandle of Texas.
Thus the aggregate of his realty holdings is seven hundred and ninety
acres, all of which is valuable land. His home farm is well stocked, its
fertile fields yield abundant harvests and it contains a comfortable resi-
dence and commodious barns.
Air. Handsaker was united in marriage to Miss Emma Cook, a daughter
of tlie late ■Michael Cook and Rose Cook. To this couple have been born
four children, three daughters and one son, as follows: Eva, w^ho died in
infancy; Lulu, who is attending school; Bertha and Harold.
Ever since he attained his majority Mr. Handsaker has given his
political allegiance to the republican party. He has never been particularly
active in politics, not aspiring to public office, but always discharges his
duties as a citizen by casting a vote at each election for the candidates of
die party of his choice. He has always been an active, progressive, ener-
getic man, who has met with more than average success in his life work
and at the same time has won and held the esteem and good-will of those
who have known him from childhood.
s
W. S. HEMPING.
W. S. Hemping, a general farmer and stock-raiser of New Albany
township. Story county, is winning success in his chosen life work owing
to the fact that his efforts in that direction have ever been characterized by
unfaltering industry and intelligently applied labor. He was born in Ogle
county, Illinois, on the 3d of June, 1S61, and represents a family which
was founded in the United States in the early part of the nineteenth century.
In the year 1803 his paternal grandfather came from Germany to the new
world, locating at Halifa.x, Dauphin county, Pennsylvania, where the re-
mainder of his life was spent. He was a minister of the Lutheran church
and his entire time was devoted to preaching the doctrines of that faith.
His son, J. N. Hemping, the father of our subject, was born on the
17th of October, 1818, in Dauphin county, Pennsylvania. He was afforded
the advantage of a college education, and it was his father's wish that he
devote himself to the ministry. This occupation, however, did not appeal
to J. N. Hemping who, taking up farming as a life work, was identified
with that enterprise throughout his active life. In 1856 he came west,
taking up his abode in Ogle county, Illinois, and in May, 1866, arrived in
Story county, where he resided until his demise. In April, 1840, he w-as
united in marriage in St. John's Lutheran church near Elizabethville,
Dauphin county, Pennsylvania, to Miss Eva Brosius, who was also a
native of the Keystone state, her birth occurring in Dauphin county, July
28, 1824. Mr. Hemping passed away on the 6th of March, 1896, on the
360 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
old homestead in New Albany township, Story county, but his wife still
survives and makes her home with a son in South Dakota. By her mar-
riage she became the mother of the following children : Dan, a veteran of
the Civil w^ar, who was born January i8, 1842, and passed away January
9, 1895; Elizabeth, who was born November 26, 1843. ^""^^ d'^<J '" May,
1898; Peter and Moses, both of whom passed away in infancy; Mary, who
was born in May, 1846, her death occurring August 5. 1906; Kathryn.
who was born October 16, 1851, and was killed in a railroad accident in
Colo on the 15th of July, 1900; Susan, who was born November 14, 1853,
and resides in Lincoln, Nebraska; John N., born March 31, 1856, and
living in Ford county, Kansas; and Aaron I., wdio was born October 28,
1865, and now makes his home in South Dakota.
Coming with his parents to Story county when a lad of five years,
W. S. Hemping therefore acquired his education in the schools of New
Albany township, while he received thorough practical training in the
work of the home farm. The wholesome atmosphere of rural life was
conducive to a healthy, normal growth both mentally and physically, and
with the passing of the years he learned much concerning the value of
industry, integrity and perseverence. He remained w-ith his parents until
thirty years of age, when he removed to the farm adjoining the old home-
stead, the property of his wife, upon which he yet makes his home. Here
he is successfully engaged in general farming and also devotes considerable
time to stock-raising, making a specialty of breeding high grade Percheron
horses. He is meeting with success in his enterprise, owing to the fact that
he employs modern and progressive methods in the conduct of his interests
and gives careful personal supervision to both Ijranches of his business.
On the lOth of March, 1892, W. S. Hemi)ing was united in marriage
to Rachel Isabel Trites, whose birth occurred in New Albany township on
the 22d of Januarj', 1862. Her father, Henry Trites, a native of Germany,
made the trip across the Atlantic in 1853 as a passenger on the William
Tell, landing at New York. In 1858 he arrived in Story county and in
the following year started for Pikes Peak. He returned to Story county,
however, in i860, in which year he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah
McCamy. Agriculture was the occupation to which he devoted his tinu-
and attention, and he spent his entire life upon the farm. Iowa was yet
a frontier district when he arrived within its borders. Mrs. Hcmping's
mother and her family came west with ox teams and it took nine week-
to make the trip from Randolph county, Indiana, to Story county. Mr.
Trites cast in his lot with the early settlers and bore an important part
at the time of the Spirit Lake Indian uprising. He undertook the task
of notifying the troops at Fort P.ri<lgely, South Dakota, of the uprisini,'.
as many people had already been killed. The task was a difficult one, a-
the distance to Fort Bridgcly was one hundred miles and the journey
had to be made on foot, witli four to six feet of snow on the ground.
He was a Mason, holding membership in Columbia Lodge. No. 292, A. F.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 361
& A. M., at Colo. He passed away on the 8th of August, 1892, and
his funeral services, held at the Methodist Episcopal church, at Colo,
were conducted by Rev. Ellenberger, with the Masonic order assisting.
He is survived by his widow, who now makes her home at Colo, whence
she removed in 1894, and two daughters, Mrs. Hemping and Louise
Hemping.
Unto Mr. ad Mrs. Hemping have been born two sons : Henry, born
on the lOth of December, 1893, who lives at home and attends high
school; and William Silas, born on the 31st of December, 1898, who is
also with his parents and is attending school.
Mr. Hemping is identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fel-
lows and has held all of the offices in the order. In politics he is a
stanch republican, strongly supporting the progressive branch of that
party, but he is without ambition for public office. He has, however,
served as a member of the school board for four years, the cause of edu-
cation and intellectual development finding in him a stalwart champion.
Indeed his ideas are progressive along other lines, as well, and every
measure or project which has for its object the upbuilding and develop-
ment of the community finds in him hearty cooperation. He has passed
practically his entire life within the borders of Story county and his
genuine worth has gained him many warm friends during that period,
his excellent traits of citizenship gaining him the respect and good-will
of his fellowmen.
BURTON L. ]\IEAD.
Burton L. Mead, whose farm of one hundred and sixty acres lies
within the corporate limits of Collins, may be designated as one of the
fortunate citizens of Story county. His home is one of the most attrac-
tive in the township, and as a farmer, although a young man, he enjoys a
reputation for success seldom accorded a man of his years. Born on the
farm where he now resides, January 14, 1882, he is the son of Charles
and Phoebe V. (Fish) Mead. The father became one of the wealthy
men of this section and died in 1894. The mother is now living in Collins.
Burton L. Mead was reared upon the home farm under highly favor-
able conditions for acquiring a good physical constitution and also a thor-
ough knowledge of all the details of agriculture and stock-raising. He
received his preliminary education in the public schools and subsequently
attended the Capital City Business College at Des Moines, where he
acquitted himself most creditably and gained the basis of a thorough
business education. At the age of eighteen years he was made assistant
cashier of the Exchange State Bank of Collins, serving most acceptably
for three and one-half vears, when he resigned and located upon the
362 HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY
home farm, which reverted to him on the settlement of the family estate
in 1903. This place comprises one hundred and sixty acres and is one
of the highly improved farms of Story county. It is provided with sub-
tantial buildings and all conveniences of a first class, up-to-date establish-
ment. Mr. Mead makes a specialty of stock- feeding, using not only all
the grain and hay that he raises but he also buys extensively from others.
He is a good judge of stock and being well acquainted with the markets
is generally able to secure the very best prices available.
On the nth of November, 1903, Mr. Mead was united in marriage to
Miss Hattie E. Middleton, of Modale, Iowa, a daughter of William and
Catherine (Mintun) Middleton, the former a native of Ohio and the >
latter of Iowa. Mr. Middleton came to Iowa about 1846 and engaged in
farming in Harrison county. He also served as foreman on the construc-
tion of the Union Pacific Railway when it was built through .\ebraska.
but is now living retired at Modale at the age of eighty-three years. There-
were eighteen children in his family.
To Mr. and Mrs. Alead two children have been born: Leroy William,
and Elena Kathryn. Politically Mr. Mead gives his support to the repub-
lican party and fraternally is identified with Fervent Lodge, No. 513. .\.
F. & A. M., of Collins, lie is a kind and considerate husband and father,
an enterprising citizen and a faithful friend, who is willing to make any
reasonable sacrifice to advance the comfort and happiness of those with
whom he associates. By an industrious and straightforward life he ha<
gained an enviable reputation for efficiency and integrity, and his per-
sonal worth is fully demonstrated in the high esteem in which he is held
by people of Collins and vicinity.
MATHEW ELLIS McMICHAEL.
Mathew Ellis Mc.Michael occupies an attractive home at No. 1007
Douglas avenue and is now partially living retired but for many year
was closely associated with agricultural interests and draying. He w:i
born at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, March 20, 1839. His parents, Robci i
and Jane (Cairns) .McMichael, were both natives of Ireland, where they
were reared and married. The year 1819 witnessed their arrival in
Pennsvlvania. at which time they took up their abode near Philadelphia,
and later removed to Pittsburg. After a year in the latter city they went
to Lisbon, Columbiana county, Ohio, where Mathew E. .McMichael
remained until his enlistment for service in the Union army in May, 1862.
Both of his parents spent their last days in Lisbon, the mother passing
away March 19, 1855. while the father's death occurred on the 19th of
February, 18^16. He was a weaver and followed that trade throughout
his life. He was also an expert at sowing grain and stacking it and did
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY ♦ 363
considerable work of that kind but aside from that did not engage in
farming. He had developed a knack at that work while a boy and he also
became quite efficient in weaving.
Mathew E. McMichael is the youngest and the only survivor in a family
of eleven children, nine of whom reached adult age. His brother John, in
response to the last call, served for three months with the One Hundred
and Forty-third Volunteer Infantry during the Civil war. The members
of the family are: James, who was a farmer, thresher and teamster and
died at Alliance, Ohio; Eliza Jane, who became the wife of David Kimball
and died in Ohio; William, who was a carpenter and died in Ames;
Margaret May, who died in infancy; Robert Hayes, who was a builder
and contractor and passed away in Ohio; Isabella, who became the wife
of Wesley Kimball and died in the Buckeye state ; John, who was a laborer
and died in Ohio; David, who was proprietor of a livery stable at Lisbon,
Ohio, for many years and there passed away ; Margaret, who married
Robert Morrow and died in Ohio; Anna, who died in infancy; and Mathew
Ellis.
Alathew E. McMichael devoted his youth to the acquirement of an
education and assisted his father in different lines of work. He was
about twenty-three years of age when in May, 1862, he offered his services
to the government and joined Company F, of the Eighty-seventh Ohio
Volunteer Infantry, with which he served for five months, after which
he was taken prisoner at Harper's Ferry in the fall of 1862. Being
paroled, he returned home, where he suffered an attack of typhoid fever.
He enlisted a second time, in 1864, as a member of Company F, One
Hundred and Forty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with which he served
for three months. He participated in the battle of Harper's Ferry and
many minor engagements and assisted in the capture of Morgan when
the Confederate general made his raid into Ohio. After the war Mr.
McMichael worked as a farm laborer and later as a teaiuster until he
came to Iowa in 1868. Making his way to Story county, he settled in
Franklin township about five miles north of Ames and there rented land
until July, 1870, when he took charge of the county poor farm. He was
the first superintendent of the Story county farm and filled the position
for twenty-two months. He then came to .Ames, where he engaged in the
draying business for a number of years, after which he resumed farming
on a place a mile south of Ames. He rented and cultivated that land for
six years, when he returned to Ames and was again engaged in teaming
for a number of years. Later he went to Grundy county, where he engaged
in farming in the vicinity of Conrad for si.x years, after which he returned
to Ames and has since partially lived retired. In 1909 he built his present
fine home at No. 1007 Douglas avenue.
Mr. McMichael has been married three times. In 1863 he wedded
Miss Elizabeth Orr, a native of Elkton, Ohio, who died in 1866. In Janu-
ary, 1868, he married Samantha Evans, who was born in Illinois and died
■Ml • HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
in 1874. They had three children. Jennie, the eldest, is the wife of John
McKay, of Saskatchewan, Canada. Charles Edgar, who served for three
years in the regular army with the rank of sergeant, was born in Story
county, October 28, 1872, and at the time of the Spanish-American war
enlisted for service in the volunteer army and died in Cuba in 1898.
Myrtle Belle, of Portland, Oregon, lost her mother when but two years
of age and was adopted by Edward Lockwood, whose name she now
bears. On the 29th of January, 1S80, Mr. McMichael was again married,
his third union being with Sarah Long, who was born in Stark county.
Ohio, in 1847. They have one child. Kate, who is now the wife of L. J.
Cole, and resides with her father.
In his political views Mr. McMichael has always been a stalwart demo-
crat but has never sought or desired office. He belongs to the Grand
Army of the Republic and thus keeps in touch with those who were his
comrades when he followed the old flag upon southern battlefields. He
has now passed the seventy-second milestone on life's journey and though
still engaged in business to some extent is also living partially retired,
enjoying a rest which he has truly earned and richly merits.
GEORGE C. COUGHEXOUR.
Ill tlie list of the younger generation of well known and successful
farmers of Story county must be placed the name of George C. Coughe-
nour, who is also a native son, having been born in Indian Creek township
on the 5th of September, 1877. The parents, Solomon and Margaret
(Dunahoo) Coughenour. came to Iowa with their respective jiarents. he
from Pennsylvania and she from Virginia, when they were children and
are included among the first settlers of this county. After their marriage
they settled in Indian Creek township, where the father engaged in farm-
ing until about 1901, at which time he retired and they moved to Nevada,
where they have since continued to live.
George C. Coughenour spent his boyhood and youth under the parental
roof, acquiring his education in the common schools, assisting in tiie work
of the farm and enjoying such pastimes as do the majority of young people
living in the rural districts. When he had acquired sufficient education to
enable him to undertake the duties and responsibilities of life he laid aside
his text-books and turned his attention to farming, having decided to fol-
low that occupation as it was the one to which he had been reared and
which he considered was best adapted to his powers. At the age of
twenty years he relieved his father by taking over the entire charge and
management of the home farm, which he still continues to cultivate. It
consists of one hundred antl si.\ty acres of land on section i. Indian
Creek township, and is considered one of the valuable properties of Story
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 365
county. He has made a specialty of cattle feeding for several years and
has been very successful in this as well as in his farming. He is one of
the progressive, wide-awake, alert young agriculturists, who keeps in close
touch with every advanced movement along the lines in which he is inter-
ested, always ready to try any new methods which appeal to him as being
practical and the efficacy of which has been demonstrated by trial.
He established a home of his own by his marriage on the nth of
October, igoo, to J\liss Nellie Ray, a daughter of Jacob Ray, now a resi-
dent of Nevada but for many years one of the well known pioneer farmers
of Indian Creek township. Three children have been born of this union:
Ray, Ralph and Rollin.
Mr. Coughenour's fraternal relations have been confined to member-
ship in the Mystic Workers of the World. Ever since age conferred upon
him the right of suffrage his political affiliation has been with the demo-
cratic party, as he feels its policy is best adapted to protect tlie interest
of the agriculturist. He has never been an office seeker nor aspired to
political honors of any kind, but each election day finds him at the polls,
where he casts his ballot for the candidates of the party of his choice. He
is highly respected and esteemed in this, the county of his birth, and higher
tribute could not be paid to his worth as a man and citizen.
SEA'EREN O. WALD.
Among the active members of the Story county bar none occupies a
more honorable place than the gentleman whose name introduces this
review. He has been in the thick of the fray for fifteen years and has
carried off a fair share of laurels, being known as one of the brightest
lawyers in this section of the state — an attorney who never acknowledges
defeat as long as he feels he is in the right and who in a remarkable num-
ber of difficult cases has convinced the court or jury of the righteousness
of his contention.
He was born in Polk county, Iowa, December lo, 1865, a son of Ole
J. and Bertha U. (Gaard) Wald, both natives of Norway. They came
to the United States before their marriage, in the early '50s, and located
near Ottawa, Illinois. Mr. Wald purchased one hundred and sixty acres
of prairie land in Elkhart township, Polk county, Iowa, from a man for
whom he was working in Illinois, and in the spring of 1865 he and his
family removed to this place. He built a log cabin and later improved his
farm with modern structures, developing it into one of the valuable
properties of the township. He also acquired land in Humboldt county,
Iowa, taking up his residence there about 1890. Mrs. Wald passed away
in 1899, her husband departing this life eight years later. They were both
faithful members of the Lutheran church and active workers in behalf of
366 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
every cause seeking to advance the permanent interests of the community.
Mr. W'ald possessed good business judgment and on account of his acknowl-
edged reputation for integrity was a man of large influence whenever he
was know-n.
Severen O. W'ald was reared under favorable circumstances for a use-
ful career. He acquired his education in the district schools and then took
a course in the Iowa Business College of Des Moines. Subsequently he
matriculated in the law department of Drake University, graduating with
the degree of LL.B. in 1896. He was admitted to the bar January 22, of
the same year, several months before his graduation from the university.
Opening offices in Slater, he at once entered upon an active practice and has
handled successfully some of the most important civil and land cases that
have been tried in this section. Recently he won a land case at Clarion
which involved twenty-five thousand dollars or more that had been unsuc-
cessfully tried by some of the ablest lawyers in this part of the state. His
clients are among the leading business men of the community and his
opinions upon questions of law command respect as coming from one who
has carefully considered the subject from all points of view.
In June, uSgg, Mr. Wald w-as united in marriage to Miss Minnie John-
son, of Des Moines, and of this union si.x children were born, five of whom
are now living, namely: Curtis M., Lowell M., Roscoe E., Bonnie \'. and
an infant daughter.
Mr. W'ald gives his support to the re|)ublican party and has been fre-
quently requested to allow his name to be proposed for the state legislature,
but his extensive and growing practice has prevented his acceptance of
this honor. He has served as a member of the town council and fraternally
is connected with Slater Lodge, No. 384, I. O. O. F., and the local camp of
the Modern Woodmen of America. He and his wife are valued members of
the Methodist church. Both as a pleader and counselor he has attained high
standing in his profession, and as he is a man of studious habits who thor-
oughly prepares for every case in which lie is interested, he apparently has
before him many years of increasing responsibility and usefulness.
JOHX \'. K.\LSEM.
John \'. Kalsem, who has been living retired at Huxley for nine years
past, and attained a competence through years of wisely applied labor, w'as
born in Norway, May 26, 1839, He is a son of Valentine and Sarah Kalsem.
both of whom were natives of Norway and continued in that country dur-
ing their entire lives. Mr. Kalsem of this review was reared under the
parental roof and acquired his education in the jiublic schools of Norway,
subsequently attending the schools of Mahaska county. Iowa, for a short
time. In the spring of 1859, being then twentv years of age, he Arrived in
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 367
the United States, having decided to make for himself a home and a for-
tune under the sheltering protection of the republic. He stopped for a short
time in Henry county. Iowa, where he worked on a farm for five dollars a
month and board, but he soon removed to Mahaska county, where he spent
two or three years. In 1862, having in the meantime selected a life com-
panion, he brought his bride to Story county and took up his home on eighty
acres of land in Palestine township, where he began farming on his own
account. He worked industriously and with good judgment and as he pros-
pered from year to year he purchased more land until at one time he was
the owner of five hundred acres in Story county. About 1902 he retired
from active labor and removed to Huxley, where he is now living in the
enjoyment of comfort and ease. He has divided his land among his children
but is sure of a liberal income during the remainder of his life, being also a
stockholder in the Fanners Savings bank.
On the 17th of ]May, 1862, at Oskaloosa, Iowa, Mr. Kalsem was united
in marriage to Miss Martha Cleveland, a native of Norway, a daughter of
Ole and Martha Knutzen, and of this union nine children were born, five of
whom are now living, namely : Severt J., a farmer of Palestine township ;
Ole, also a farmer of Palestine township ; Martha, the wife of Ole B. Olson,
of the same township; Mary A., now Mrs. Knute Nelson, of Polk county;
and John F., who is living at home.
Mr. Kalsem is essentially a self-made man, having acquired a fortune
almost entirely through his own efforts. His total cash capital upon arriving
in America was ten dollars, and although he was among strangers and in a
strange land, he bravely set to work to win a responsible position among his
fellowmen. This he accomplished and no name is more highly respected in
Huxley and vicinity than that of John \^ Kalsem. He has been for many
years an active worker in the republican party and has served most accept-
ably as township trustee and member of the school board. He and his estim-
able wife are connected with the Lutheran church and are earnest workers in
its behalf.
AMOS C. HANSON.
Amos C. Hanson, one of the well known business men of McCalls-
burg, who has been a resident of Story county for over thirty years, was
born in La Salle county. Illinois, on the 3d of September, 1870. his par-
ents being Peter C. and Martha (Anderson) Hanson. The father was
born in Norway on the 9th of September, 1844, but at the age of eighteen
years he decided that the United States offered better advantages to
young men of limited means and he emigrated. He went to Chicago in
186 1, remaining there but a short time, however, as he was engaged by
the government to build barracks for two years. At the end of that period
368 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
he returned to Chicago and continued to reside there until 1877 and in
the fall of that year he came to Story county, Iowa, and engaged in farm-
ing. He followed this for nine years and in 1886 he removed to Washing-
ton territory, but at the end of one and one-half years residence in the
latter place once more located in Story county and resumed farming. In
1896 he emliarked in the grain and lumber business in McCallsburg, in
which line he continued up to the time of his death in July, 1909. His
wife was a native of La Salle county, Illinois, and a daughter of Erner
Anderson, who was a native of Norway and emigrated to New York state
when a young man. After living there for a time he went to Chicago,
Illinois, making the journey on foot, and from Chicago he went to La Salle
county, Illinois, where he entered a tract of government land, upon which
he was living at the time of his death in 1900, at the age of eighty-one
years. He married Miss Margaret Gunderson, also a native of Norway,
and they became the parents of ten children, Mrs. Hanson being the sec-
ond in order of birth.
Mr. and Mrs. Peter C. Hanson were the parents of the following chil-
dren: Amos C. ; Milton C. ; David, deceased; Carrie, deceased; Carrie,
who married Howard Billings; David; Minnie; and Frank. The father
held membership in the Masonic fraternity and voted the republican ticket.
He was a very public-spirited man and was held in high esteem in the
community where he lived, being elected to many of the minor offices in
Warren township and during his residence in McCallsburg being a mem-
ber of the city council. He was a most capable and successful business
man and succeeded in acquiring five hundred and twenty acres of land,
as well as other property, at the time of his death.
Amos C. Hanson spent his early years in the unvaried routine of study,
work and play, and only at rare intervals did anything occur of sufficient
interest to relieve the monotony. When he had completed the course in
the district schools of Story county he matriculated at Ellsworth Col-
lege, Iowa Falls, Iowa, where he pursued a more advanced course, thus
obtaining a better education than is acquired by the average young man
living in the country. On reaching his majority he followed farming for
one year but on the 2d of January, 1892, he went to McCallsburg to work
for his father, who was at that time engaged in the grain and lumber
business. At the end of four years he was admitted to partnership, the
firm thereafter being P. C. Hanson & Son, and upon the death of his
father three years later he became senior member of the company, the
business continuing under the same name, however.
Mr. Hanson establi.'jhed a home for himself by his marriage to Miss
Louisa Lura, a daughter of K. O. Lura. of Hardin county. Iowa, and
they have become the parents of the following children : Mabel, Clarence,
Peter Lloyd, Beatrice M. and Albert Lawrence.
Mr. Hanson's fraternal relations are confined to membership in the
Modern Woodmen of America and he is at present acting as clerk of the
HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY 369
IMcCallsburg Camp, Xo. 2999. Ever since he was granted the riglit of
suffrage ^h. Hanson has cast his ballot for the republican party, tie
has always taken an actiye interest in local politics, having been a mem-
ber of the JMcCallsburg council from the time the town was incorporated
.in 1902 until 1908, and he is now serving on the school board.
DAVID HANSON.
David Hanson, the junior member of the firm of P. C. Hanson & Son,
was born in Warren township. Story county, Iowa, on the 24th of March,
1885, being a son of Peter C. and }»Iartha (Anderson) Hanson, the father
a native of Norway and the mother of Illinois. He has spent his entire
life in the county of his nativity, and after completing the work in the
district schools of Warren township, he entered the high school at JMc-
Callsburg, Iowa. When he left school he worked for his father until
the latter's death in July, 1909, when he became the junior member of the
firm, of which his brother Amos C. is the head but which continues under
the original name of P. C. Hanson & Son.
Mr. Hanson is a member of the jNIodern Woodmen of America, his
local affiliation being with McCallsburg Camp, No. 2999. Ever since he
attained his majority he has voted for the candidates of the republican
party and although he has never taken an active interest in local politics
he is always at the polls on election day. He is one of the highly esteemed
young business men of AlcCallsburg, wdiere the name of Hanson is well
known and has always been accorded the greatest respect.
SEVERT J. KALSEM.
The second generation of the Kalsem family in Story county is ably
represented by Severt J. Kalsem, whose name is synonymous with integrity
and honor. He lives upon a well improved farm in Palestine township,
whose appearance indicates that its owner is wide-awake and fully capable
of keeping abreast of the times. He was born in the school district in which
he now lives, October 4, 1866, a son of John Y. Kalsem, a record of whom
appears elsewhere in this work.
Severt J. Kalsem was reared at home and acquired his preliminary edu-
cation in the district schools, later attending the Iowa State Business College
at Des Moines, where he gained a practical knowledge that has been of
special benefit to him as a man of affairs. He continued with his father
and assisted in cultivating the farm until twenty-three years of age, when
he began farming on his own account, locating upon land which he had ])re-
370 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
viously purchased from his father. He now owns one hundred and ninety
acres on section 22, Palestine township, and has one of tlie desirable places
of the county, having made many improvements adding greatly to its original
value. He is a stockholder of the Farmers Savings bank and also of the
Farmers Elevator company and the Farmers Cooperative Creamery Com- .
pany, all of Huxley, and as a business man and citizen stands very high in
the estimation of the people.
On the 14th of February, 1895, Mr. Kalsem was united in marriage to
Miss Carrie R. Nelson, a daughter of Andrew Nelson, a wealthy farmer of
Polk county. Four children blessed this union : Mabel \'.. Martha C. Joseph
N. and Agnes M.
Mr. and Mrs. Kalsem are active members of the Lutheran church, in which
he serves most creditably as trustee. Politically he gives his su])port to the
republican ])arty and is a stanch advocate of its i)rinci])les. In 1910 he was a
candidate for the office of county supervisor but failed at that time of nomi-
nation. He has been identified with this section ever since his earliest recol-
lection anil on account of his many excellencies of character is greatly
esteemed by a large circle of friends and ac(|uaintances in his part of the
countv.
GEORGE W. KELLEY.
On the pages of pioneer history of Story county appears the name of
George W. Kelley. who arrived here when Nevada contained but one house
and when the greater part of the county was still an unclaimed and un-
settled region. He was among those who secured the wild land for the
purpose of civilization and converted the prairie into productive fields.
He relates many interesting incidents of the early days and is authority
upon many events which find a place in history.
He was born in \ igo county, Indiana, on the 15th of January, 1835,
his parents being Ainos and Elizabeth (Jackson) Kelley. natives of Ken-
tucky and North Carolina respectively. They were married in the former
state and became pioneer settlers of Indiana, where the father died when
his son George was but three years of age. The mother spent her last
days in Story county in the home of her son George and there passed away
in 1884. She ever remained true to the memory of her husband, never
marrying again. Mr. Kelley had devoted his life to farming and was a
very bu.sy and active man imtil death terminated his labors.
(jeorge W. Kelley was the ninth in a family of seven sons and three
daughters: Sallie Ann, now the deceased wife of George P. Yocum; Ma-
linda, the deceased wife of William Stafford ; Amos, who has also passed
away; Rebecca, the deceased wife of Isaac Jones; Samuel, who .served for
three years in the Tenth Iowa \'olunteer Infantry and then reenlisted, after
(iEDIJCK W. KKLI.KV
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 373
whicli he was granted a furlough and started home but died while on his
way to Davenport, Iowa; William, deceased; John, who enlisted from
Story county and served for a year and a half in the Civil war, his death
occurring since his discharge, which was occasioned by disability; Abram,
of Bloomington, Illinois ; George W. ; and Hezekiah, who died in Kansas.
Of the above sons William and John were twins.
George W. Kelley with his mother and younger brother, Hezekiah,
went to McLean county, Illinois, in the fall of 1850 and in the fall of 1853
they came to Story county, Iowa. It was on the 22d of September of that
year that George \V. Kelley started from Illinois, accompanied by his
mother and brother and by Samuel and Isaac Jones and their families,
for Iowa. The Kelleys had two covered wagons drawn by horses. They
crossed the Mississippi at Muscatine, traveled from there to Iowa City
and thence to Marietta, which at that time was the county seat of Marshall
county. Later they proceeded to Story county, which was then largely a
wild, unsettled and undeveloped region. There was only one house upon
the present site of Nevada and it is still standing — one of the old land-
marks of the early days — occupied by T. E. Alderman. The Kelley family
traveled on to what is now the eastern part of Boone county, where they
arrived in October, remaining there until the 12th of December, at which
time George W. Kelley took up his abode on section i, Palestine town-
ship. Story county. At that time there resided in Palestine township R.
Balldock. Washington Thomas. George Thomas, Robert and William
Hawk and E. McKinzie. There was not a house between Grove and
Madrid, a distance of fifteen miles. Mr. Kelley entered one hundred and
forty acres of land from the government. In the fall of 1852 he had en-
tered eighty acres in Marshall county but never resided thereon. He has
made his home continuously in Story county since 1853 and after locating
in Palestine township he at once began the task of developing and improv-
ing his land. In the fall of 1854 it became necessary for him to go to mill,
and the nearest place where he could get grist ground was at Oskaloosa,
about seventy-five miles away. He had to journey with an ox team and
it took a week to make the round trip. Because of this he had to carrv
provisions with him and camp on the prairie at night. The same fall he
took a load of dressed pork to Des Moines and received a dollar and a half
per hundred weight therefor. On the return trip he brought home a bar-
rel of salt, for which he paid twelve dollars and ten cents. At that time
there was only one dry-goods store and two grocery stores in Des Moines
and the state capital was at Iowa City. Deer and elk were seen in Story
county in large numbers and wild turkeys were very plentiful, so that it
was not difficult to supply the pioneer table with meat. The first school-
house in Palestine township was built on section i in the spring of 1854,
was made of rounrl logs and had a dirt floor. .A. young man Ijy the name
of G. Brown was the first teacher. Mr. Kelley aided in building the school-
house and has always been a friend of education and progress. He also
Vol. 11— 19
374 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
assisted in building tlie first church in Palestine township about 1856. it
being a house of worship for the United Brethren congregation, Rev.
Marks acting as the first pastor. The church was started with the idea of
making it a United Brethren school but sufficient aid was not received and
they converted the building into a church, Mr. Kclley giving twenty-five
dollars and his labor toward the work. In 1854 he also helped to lay out
the first road from Palestine township to Nevada. It was practically only
a trail made by sticking poles in the ground to guide the wagons over the
prairie through the tall grasses.
As the years passed on Mr. Kelley devoted his time and energies closely
to llie development of the farm, consisting of one hundretl and twenty
acres, which he converted into a rich and productive property, annually
gathering good harvests therefrom. He made his home upon that place
until Novemljcr 27, 1906, when he retired, taking up his abode at his
present residence at No. 1302 Kellogg avenue in Ames. He sold the farm
aliout two years ago and since removing to this cit)' has lived retired, en-
joying well earned rest, which is the merited reward of his labor.
Mr. Kelley was living in this county at the time of the Civil war and
enlisted in August, 1861, as a member of Company A. Tenth Iowa X'olun-
leer Infantry, under Captain McCauley. The command was assigned to
the Army of the West and after serving for three and a half years he was
honorably discharged in the fall of 1864. He was in the hospital at Camp
Dennison, Ohio, for two months, yet took ])art in all of the engagements
with liis regiment, including the battles of Island No. 10. luka. Corinth.
Jackson, Cliami)ion's Hill, the siege of \'icksburg. Lookout Mountain, the
Atlanta camijaign and was also with Sherman on the march to the sea and
on the campaign through the Carolinas. lie was mustered out at Kingston.
Georgia, and returne<l home with a most creditable military record, for he
had manifested unfaltering loyalty on the field of battle, lie not only hatl
narrow escapes while upon the firing line but again seemed to escape with
his life in almost miraculous manner during the cyclone of September.
1882, for on that occasion his buildings, stock and crops were all destroyed,
leaving him nothing save the land. Undiscouraged by this condition, how-
ever, he resolutely set to work to retrieve his losses and in the course of
years gained a substantial competence, now enabling him to live retired.
On the 22d of December. 1870. Mr. Kclley was united in marriage to
Miss Henrietta Selby, who was born in La Grange county. Indiana, Sep-
tember 5, 1841. and in 1868 came to Iowa with her parents, Ralph and
Catharine Selby, who were natives of Ohio and spent their last days near
Des Moines. Their family numbered four children and unto Mr. and Mr<.
Kelley four children have been born, namely: Annetta, the wife of I-'rank
Smith, of Dayton, Iowa ; Clinton, who died at the age of twenty-one year< :
Harry, living in .'\mes ; and Frank, of Boone county, Iowa.
Mr. Kelley is a member of the (irand .\rmy of the Re])ublic and tlui
keeps in close touch with his old army comrades. He has always been
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 375
loyal and progressive in citizenship, displaying no greater faithfulness to
his country and its welfare in times of war than he does in days of peace.
He has now passed the seventy-sixth milestone on life's journey and his
has been an honorable and creditable record, his life history showing what
may be accomi)lished by determined purpose, close application and unfal-
tering energy. He started out empty-handed and is today the possessor of
a cohifortable competence, supplying him with all of the necessities and
manv of the comforts of life.
FRANK FREDERICK MENZEL.
Among the well known and prosperous farmers of Warren township,
Story county, is Frank Frederick Menzel, who was born in Stephenson
county, Illinois, in 1863, and is a son of Carl and Amelia (Richter) Men-
zel. The father was born in Prussia, Germany, on the 4th of July, 1832,
a son of Frederick and Teresa Menzel, both natives of Prussia, where
they spent their entire lives. Frederick Menzel was a farmer and was
highly respected in the community where he lived. Of the six children
in his family his son Carl was the only one to come to the United States.
Mrs. Amelia Menzel was a daughter of John Fred and Rosa Richter, the
fourth child in a family of eleven. Her parents spent their entire lives
in the fatherland.
Carl Menzel, our subject's father, came to America in i860, landing
in New York on the Sth of July and going to Freeport, Illinois, where he
remained until 1871, when he migrated to Warren township. Story county,
Iowa, and has since continued to make this his home. He was actively
engaged in farming until igoo, at which time he retired and removed
to McCallsburg, where he now resides. He was successful in his under-
takings and is now able to live comfortably on the revenue derived from
his various properties. He owns his residence in McCallsburg and is a
stockholder in the McCallsburg State bank. Five children were born
to Mr. and Mrs. Menzel, as follows: Albertina M., the wife of J. A. M.
Irvine; Charles H., a resident of Warren township; Frank F., our subject;
Amelia, who married A. L. Dayton; and Emma, the wife of Lars H.
Bakka. The mother is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church.
Ever since his naturalization the father has identified himself with the
republican party. Both of these worthy people are highly respected and
esteemed in their locality, where they have many friends.
Frank F. Menzel was only eight years of age when his parents located
in Warren township. He started to school in Illinois but the greater por-
tion of his education was acquired in the district schools of Story county.
He remained under the paternal roof until he had reached the age of
twenty-two years, when he felt he should become independent of his
376 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
father's supervision and start out in life for himself. He engaged in
farming as a renter for about six years, during that time acquiring suf-
ficient capital to enable him to purchase land, which he did in 1891. He
settled on his farm of one hundred and sixty acres on section 35, Warren
township, where he continues to reside, his property being one of the
best in the vicinity. In addition to his country real estate Mr. Menzel
owns a business block in McCallsburg, is a stockholder in the Farmers
bank of that town and a director of the Farmers Elevator Company of
McCallsburg.
Mr. Menzel was united in marriage to Miss Minnie Johnson, who was
born in Denmark, in 1867, coming to the United States with her parents
in 1868. Six children have been born of this union: Pearl, Ray, Grace,
Ruth, Lela and Fred, all of whom are living at home. The wife and
mother passed away in 1902 at the age of thirty-tivc years. She was a
member of the Methodist Episcopal church.
Ever since he has been granted the full rights of citizensliip Mr. Men-
zel has cast his ballot with the republican party, and his party fealty has
been rewarded by his election to the office of township trustee and presi-
dency of the local school board. He served in the latter capacity for
twelve years, lie is a man of exceptionally high [)rinciples, broad in his
views, charitable in his criticisms and just in his opinions. He has been
quite successful in Iiis pursuits, acquiring a comfortable competency, but
it is the fruit of honest endeavor and close application. His every deed has
been above suspicion and as a result he is highly esteemed and honored
in the community where the greater part of his life has been passed.
SQUIRE McCOXXELL.
Men of industrious habits and of fidelity to principle are worthy of the
sincere respect of their associates. Their life from day to day is a valuable
incentive to others and it would be imjiossible to estimate the good that is
done in the world tiirougli the simple force of example. Squire McConnell,
whose name introduces this sketch, should be classed with those here indi-
cated. Born in Indian Creek township, this county, Xovember 17, 185S, he
is a son of Alexander and Caroline (Raimer) McConnell, the former of
whom was a native of Hancock county, Ohio, and the latter of Pennsylvania.
The parents were married in Hancock county, where the mother was livini,'
at that time with her parents. About 1855 they came to Story county, Mr
McConnell entering government land in Indian Creek township. He was
one of the jnoneer settlers of the township and continued upon his fann until
late in life, when he removed to Maxwell, being called away in i8g6, at the
age of sixty-eight years. He was quite successful in his vocation, becoming
the owner of three hundred and sixty acres of land, upon which he made
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 377
many improvements. Politically he gave his support to the democratic party
and fraternally he was connected with the Masonic order. Mrs. McConnell
was a stanch believer in the authority and inspiration of the Bible and a
woman of many beautiful traits of character. She departed this life in
April, 1882.
Squire McConnell in his early years attended school in a pioneer log
schoolhouse and there acquired the rudiments of an education which has
been greatly broadened by reading, observation and experience. At the
age of twenty-one years he began cultivating rented land on his own account
and kept bachelor's hall until his marriage, when he brought his wife to the
farm which has since been their home. He is the owner of one hundred and
twenty acres of good land on section 18, Collins township, and, being thrifty
and energetic, he has acquired a handsome competence and is now well forti-
fied against material want.
On the 4th of August, 1884, Mr. McConnell was united in marriage to
Miss Rebecca J. John, a daughter of William Tipton John and a grand-
daughter of Bowen W. John, one of the early settlers of Story county,
mention of whom is made in the sketch of John W. John. To Mr. and Mrs.
McConnell two children have been born : Mabel Belle, deceased ; and Hester
A.
Mr. McConnell has been a useful citizen, performing his duties to the
best of his ability, and he is ever ready to extend a helping hand to a deserv-
ing fellowman. He plainly is entitled to an honorable place among the sub-
stantial citizens of Story county. Since arriving at man's estate he has been
affiliated with the democratic party but he has never sought public office, pre-
fering to devote his attention to his private affairs. Mrs. McConnell has
been a most valued assistant to her husband and is an earnest meinber of
the Presbyterian church.
GEORGE W. BALDWIN.
Reared under highly favorable conditions for a successful business career
and with practical experience, without which the best training could scarcely
avail, George W. Baldwin is now recognized as one of the successful mer-
chants of Story county. Energy and firm purpose have constituted the salient
elements in his career. He was born in Iowa Center, Story county, April 22,
1874, a son of Frank M. and Mary (Maxwell) Baldwin. The father, who
was one of the best known business men in central Iowa, was born in Onon-
daga county. New York, November 10, 1829, a son of Wallace and Mary
(Burnett) Baldwin, natives respectively of Connecticut and Vermont. The
grandfather was a well known salt manufacturer. Frank M. Baldwin was
reared in his native state and received his education in the public schools. In
1849 lie came west to Chicago, arriving in that city about the same time that
378 HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY
Marshall Field, Alexander Revell and others whose names have since become
famous in the business world came. Mr. Baldwin, however, remained in Chi-
cago only about three years, during which time he was clerk in a dry-goods
store. He then came to Story county, Iowa, and entered government land in
Indian Creek township, but after one season returned to Cook county, Illi-
nois and engaged in the mercantile business at a place then known as Dundee
Station. In 1855 he returned to Story county and was associated for nine
years in business with Young Brothers. In 1864 he became senior member
of the mercantile firm of Baldwin & Maxwell, whose business gradually in-
creased until its trade extended throughout a large portion of central Iowa.
The firm did a wholesale business, supplying many smaller tradesmen, and
the name of Baldwin & Maxwell became a synonym for fair dealing wher-
ever the name was known. At the time the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul
Railway was built through Story county the firm established a branch house
at Maxwell, of which Mr. Ma.xwell assumed charge, while the senior member
continued at Iowa Center.
Frank M. Baldwin was married in 1859 to Miss Mary Maxwell, a sister
of !iis business partner, and by this union five children were born: Millie
A., now deceased; Jennie. Charles G., George \\'., and Jessie. The father is
still living at Alaxweil anil is one of the most capable business men in Iowa.
George VV. Baldwin was reared at Iowa Center and educated in the jniblic
schools until he arrived at the age of twelve years, when the exigency of
business required that he should assist in his father's store. Having once
started in the mercantile line he has never found time to continue his school
education, but he has greatly broadened his knowledge by reading, observa-
tion and contact with the world. He continued at Iowa Center until hi-
father removed to Maxwell in 1892 and then entered the Maxwell store,
with which he was connected until it was disposed of in 1898. .After work-
ing for others for a short time he visited California and upon returning to
Maxwell was employed for one year by R. J. Belt. In 1903 he removed to
Collins and for a year was connected with the general mercantile establish-
ment of Fred Graef. Retiring from this position he went to Los Animos,
Colorado, but his wife was dissatisfied with their surroundings, and, after
receiving several letters from Mr. Graef, asking him to return, Mr. Baldwin
again came to Collins and assisted Mr. Graef until the latter sold the busi-
ness to W. A. Severs, of the Colfax (Iowa) Mercantile Company. Mr. Bald-
win was placed in charge of the store and closed out most of the stock, tin
remainder being removed to Colfax. Having purchased fixtures, Mr. Bald-
win then organizeil the firm of G. W. Baldwin & Company with Clark Cham-
bers as partner, and the stock of Mr. Severs being removed from the build-
ing January i, 1907, on January 5th, four days later, the new firm opened
for business, selling forty-three dollars worth of goods the first day. I-'rom
this time onward the business has steadily increased, and the firm of G.
W. Baldwin & Company is now one of the substantial and flourishing con-
cerns of this section.
HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY 379
On the 20th of July. 1904, Mr. Baldwin was united in marriage to Miss
Olga E. Serbein. of Maxwell, and one child, John William, born January 11,
1909, has blessed this union. Mr. Baldwin is a valued member of Fervent
Lodge, Xo. 513, A. F. & A. M.. of Collins ; Social Lodge, No. 436, L O. O. F.,
and Jewell Encampment, Xo. 143, both of Maxwell. Politically, he is iden-
tified with the republican party and is a firm believer in its ability to con-
duct the affairs of the nation through any troubles that may arise. He
takes the interest of a patriotic citizen in public aft'airs and is now serving
his second term as member of the town council. He is thoroughly prac-
tical and systematic in anything he undertakes and has fairly earned the
success which is the result of patient and wisely applied labor.
\V. J. HARTUNG.
W. J. Hartung. proprietor of the Oak Park Farm, is too well known
among farmers and stockmen not only of Story county but of this section of
the state for it to be necessary to make any explanation as to why his name
should appear in the annals of Indian Creek township. He is of German
descent, as his name would imply, his parents emigrating to the United
States when they were quite young and settling in Polk county, Iowa, where
they were later married. William and Mary (Koppf) Hartung were living
on a farm in Polk county when their son, W. J. Hartung, was born on the
4th of June, 1874. The father came to this country in company with his
brother August, with whom he fanned in partnership as a renter for a time,
but being a thrifty man and possessing unusual executive ability he was soon
able to purchase the farm which he had been renting and continued to add
to his holdings until he possessed three hundred and forty acres. In 1892 he
retired and moved to Colfax, being known as one of the wealthy farmers of
that vicinity, but in 1899 he and Airs. Hartung located in Des Moines, where
they have ever since resided. They attend the Methodist Protestant church,
to which the mother belongs.
W. J. Hartung remained a member of his father's household until he was
eighteen years of age and up to that time his life had been spent very sim-
ilarly to that of other young people. He obtained his education in the com-
mon schools and when not occupied with his text-books assisted his father
upon the farm, so that when he had attained manhood he was quite a com-
petent young farmer and stockman. In 1892 he decided that he was old
enough to assume the heavier responsibilities of life and began farming for
himself, renting for this purpose a portion of his father's land. He con-
tinued to follow this course for eight years and then in 1901 he came to
Story county and bought his present home farm of ninety-two acres located
on section 15, Indian Creek township, where he has ever since resided.
380 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
In 1897 he began making a specialty of the breeding and raising of thor-
ough bred Diiroc Jersey hogs. He has made a particularly careful study of
breeds and is one of the best, if not the best, informed man along this line
in this section of the state. He has bred some of the best stock in this part
of the country, at the same time raising the standard among stockmen gen-
erally, many of the heavy breeders obtaining their strain from him. He has
probably done more than any other stockman in his immediate vicinity to
improve the breed of hogs, and his reputation in this line has spread as he
ships stockmen all over the country. He has been exhibiting his stock for
years past at the county fairs and for three years has been an exhibitor at
the state fair and has never yet failed to win a ribbon.
Mr. ilartung was united in marriage to Miss Eva L. Osborne, on the
lOlh of -March. 1897. She is a daughter of the late John Oslxirne and Mrs.
Sarah Osborne, of Maxwell, both of whom were among the ])ioneers of
Story county.
In his political views Mr. Hartung has always been guided by the policy
of the republican party for whose candidates he casts his ballot. Although
he has never sought political favor he has, without any solicitation on his
part, been twice elected to the office of township assessor and is the present
incumbent of that office. He is well known and highly esteemed throughout
the community and is ranked as one of the very successful and substantial
farmers and stockmen in .'^tory county.
ER.XESl" KDW.VKD WlllTK. M. D.
Through conscientious application to his profession and by a personal
interest in the advancement of the town which he adopted as his home
seven years ago, Dr. Ernest Edward White has attained an honored place
in the estimation of the people of Huxley, Iowa, and the surrounding re-
gion. He was born in Saunders county, Nebraska, September 12. 1872, a
son of Edward T. and Rose (Stocking) White, the former a native of
Wahoo, Nebraska, and the latter of Hope, Indiana. They were married in
Nebraska, to which state Mrs. White had previously moved with her
parents. Her father was the Hon. Moses Stocking, a member of the Ne-
braska state legislature and one of the first men to introduce blooded cattle
into Saunders county. He was county commissioner, a life member of the
state board of agriculture, a director of the State Horticultural Society,
president of the Wool and Sheep Growers Association, and vice president
of the Fine Stock Breeders Association, being also a charter member of
the State Historical Society and a member of the committee on awards on
wool at the Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia in 1876. He also re-
ceived an award from this exposition on wotil raised from his own farm.
He was a fluent writer and a frequent contributor to periodical literature.
0^
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DR. E. E. WHITE
HISTORY Ot" STORY COUXTY 383
Politically he gave his support to the republican party and although not a
seeker for office, he came very nearly being nominated for g"overnor by
his party at the state convention held in Lincoln September 23, 1875. He
was an interesting and forciljle public speaker and for many years a leader
in the state. In the early days of the gold excitement in Colorado he vis-
ited the Rocky ^lountains and while waiting for spring to appear at the
mouth of Cherry creek assisted in founding the city of Denver. Mr.
Stocking was indeed a true type of the frontiersmen who paved the way
for the settlement of the western country. Our subject's paternal grand-
father, Thomas White, was also a man of unusual sagacity. He was a
partner of John Deere in the manufacture of plows but severed his con-
nection with Mr. Deere and removed to ^luscatine, Iowa.
Edward T. White, the father of our subject, enlisted at Aluscatine in
1862 in Company G, Thirty-fifth Iowa \'olunteers, and was one of the
valiant soldiers of the Civil war. He was severely wounded at the battle
of jMiddleton. Tennessee, and in January, 1864, was taken prisoner by the
Confederates and confined in the Cahaba (Ala.) and Andersonville mili-
tary prisons. He received his honorable discharge from service August 19,
1865, and went to Saunders county, Nebraska, where he taught school for
several years. .Subsequently he located upon government land in Butler
county, Nebraska, being one of the old settlers in that section. In 1880
he removed to Portland, Oregon, where he has since resided. His wife
died in Portland in 1908.
Ernest Edward White acquired his preliminary education in the com-
mon schools of Nebraska and also attended' the Plainview Normal school
at Plainview, Nebraska, and Elliott's Commercial College of Burlington,
Iowa. After leaving school he accepted a position in a bank at Plainview,
serving for four years when he took up the study of medicine. He began
under Dr. F. H. Nye, of Plainview, and in 1893 entered the College of
Physicians and Surgeons at Keokuk, Iowa. He transferred his allegiance
in the fall of 1894 to Drake University, graduating from the medical de-
partment of that institution in 1896 with the degree of M. D. Immediately
after leaving college he began practice at Alarysville, Marion county, Iowa,
where he continued for three years, and then in 1899 removed to Pleasant
Plain, Jefferson county, Iowa, where he gained a liberal patronage. In
1904 he located at Huxley and has since built up a practice which extends
over a wide territory in this part of the state. Professionally he is identi-
fied with the Story County Medical Society, the Iowa State Medical So-
ciety and the American Medical Association. He is in high favor with his
brother practitioners as well as with all who have had reason to make use
of his professional services.
On the 14th of October, 1896, Dr. White was united in marriage at
Plainview, Nebraska, to Miss Minnie Stafford, and one child, Gertrude S.,
has blessed this union. Politically the Doctor is allied with the republican
party and although he has not sought [jublic office, he has served most ac-
384 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
ceptably as a member of the school board, being one of the active factors
in the erection of the new school building. In every relation of life he has
attempted to perform his duty, and as he is a man of genial manner and
generous disposition, he has gained many friends who have the most im-
plicit confidence in his integrity and ability.
GEORGE CLINTON WHITE.
George C. White, recently established in the practice of law at Nevada,
Iowa, is a native of Illinois, born in McLean county, December 6, 1865. He
comes of English lineage on the paternal side, the progenitors of the family
in America having arrived on the western shores of the Atlantic during the
colonial jjcriod. His great grandfather, Nathaniel White, served in the Revo-
lutionary war from New York. The father of our subject, William H.
White, was born in Tippecanoe county, Indiana, in 1835 and rcniiivcd with
his parents to Illinois in 1850. He was one of the successful farmers of
that state, where he died in 1905, at the age of seventy years. Politically
he gave his support to the republican party. The mother of our subject,
who was Martha Ann Donovan before her marriage, was born in Springfield,
Ohio, in 1840, and survived her husband live years, passing away in July,
1910. She removed with her parents to Washington county, Iowa, in 1849.
Our subject has one sister, Anna, who was born in McLean county, Illinois,
in 18C9, and is now the wife of E. W. Sutherland, a lawyer of lUoomington,
Illinois.
George C. White was reared under the favoring influences of a peace-
able home, and as he grew up he assisted his father to the extent of his
strength and ability in the work of the fields. He received his preliminary
education in the district schools, advancing sufficiently to secure a certificate
as a school teacher. He taught for two years and for a time was a student
at the nomial school at Normal, Illinois, but agricultural pursuits held out
greater inducements than the schoolroom, and accordingly, in 1893. he began
farming on land of his own in Story county, continuing for twelve years.
In 1905 he took charge of the l""armers Elevator at Nevada, which he con-
ducted most successfully for one year. Having decided to ado])! a profes-
sional career, he matriculated at Drake University in 1907 and was gradu-
ated from the law department with a degree of LL.B. in 1909. Desiring to
proceed still further with his studies, he entered the law department of Yale
University and was graduated from that celebrated institution with a degree
of LL.M., in 1910. Soon after leaving the university he began practice
in Nevada and as he has many friends in Story county and his ability in
practical lines of business has been thoroughly demonstrated, there is little
doubt as to his success in his chosen profession.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 385
On the i8th of June, 1890, Mr. White was united in marriage to Miss
Ida ]\Iay Chalfant, who was born in McLean coimty, Illinois, May 2, 1865.
She is the daughter of William and Margaret (Duff) Chalfant, the father
being a well known farmer of the county. Mr. White is a member of the
Story County Bar Association, and also of Lodge Xo. 99, A. F. & A. M.,
the Knights of Pythias and the Modern Woodmen of America. Ever since
arriving at manhod he has given his support to the republican party, believ-
ing that its principles are best adapted to promote the interests of the coun-
try. He has been an earnest supporter of the party in Story county and
served in the thirty-second and thirty-third general assemblies of Iowa,
showing an ability which greatly pleased his constituents. He is now fairly
started on his professional career, and it requires no prophet to foretell that
his efforts will be exercised in behalf of the political, intellectual and moral
advancement of the region with which he has for many years been intimately
identified.
STEPHEN L. LOUGHRAN.
Stephen L. Loughran is one of the well known business men of Ames,
being proprietor of the Loughran Machine company, and an old resident of
Story county. He was born in Des Moines, Iowa, on the 27th of August,
1866, a son of Edmund and Sarah A. (Bryer) Loughran, also residents of
Ames. The father was born in Armagh, County Armagh, Ireland, on the
30th of June, 1832, and was educated in the schools of Armagh, where he
lived until he had reached his fifteenth year, when he emigrated to the
L^nited States. Upon his arrival here he went to Hampshire county, West
Mrginia, but after remaining there for a few months he removed to Wheel-
ing, that state, and engaged in the machinery business there until 1855, at
which time he went to New York city and after a year's residence in the
metropolis he accepted a position in the employ of Cox, Richardson & Boyn-
ton, stove and furnace manufacturers, in Westchester county. New York.
He did not long retain that position but in 1857 started westward. Des
Moines. Iowa, being his destination, and there he engaged in the manufactur-
ing business. On the 2d of January, 1864, he responded to the call of the
nation's chief and enlisted in the First Iowa Battery. The most important
battle in which he participated was that of Atlanta on the 22d of July, 1864,
and he was also on the field at Resaca, Georgia. On the 5th of July, 1865,
he was mustered out at Davenport, Iowa, and returned to Des Moines, where
he engaged in business until 1874. In the latter year he bought one hundred
and sixty acres of land in Jasper county, Iowa, upon which he settled, and
for ten years followed the occupation of farming. At the end of that period
he came to Ames and bought out the business of Shields & Cook, who handled
farm implements, continuing in this for eighteen years. In 1902 he with-
drew from active business and is now living retired in Ames.
386 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
On the 6tli of February, 1854, Edimiiul Loiigliran was united in marriage
to Miss Sarah A. Bryer, and they became the parents of nine children, who
are as follows: John B., a resident of Scott, Kansas; Sarah, who became the
wife of W. H. Wintersteen and lives in Hartford, South, Dakota ; Edmund
James, living in Madison county, Iowa; one who died in infancy; Stephen
L., our subject; Thomas J., residing in Ames; Jennie E.. the wife of F. M.
Coulter, also living in Ames ; William B.. who died at the age of thirty-six
years; and Mary B.. who lives in Los Angeles, California. The family
always attended the services of the United Presbyterian church and the par-
ents hold membership in the First church of that denomination in Des Moines.
.Mr. Loughran votes the republican ticket and for a period of four years
filled the office of justice of peace. He is a member of the Grand Army of
the Republic, being locally identified with Ellsworth Post. Xo. 30, of Ames.
He stands liigli in the regard of the people of the community where he has
resided for nearly a quarter of a century.
Stephen L. Loughran acquired his preliminary education in the public
schools of Des Moines and in 1884 entered the Iowa State College, where he
remained until 1887, at wliich time he entered into business with his father
under tlic firm name of the Loughran Machine comjiany. This is the pioneer
machine business of the county having been in existence for twenty-six years,
and they now have a branch establishment at Gilbert, Iowa. They handle a
full and complete line of buggies, wagons and farming im])lonicnts, and also
deal in coal.
Mr. Loughran completed arrangements for a home of his own by his
marriage to Miss Lillie Brown, a daughter of Captain K. W. and Lydia
(Gates) Brown. .'>ix chiklren have been born of this union, as follows:
Faith Lillian; Sarah, who died in infancy; Stephen L.. Jr.; Kendric W. ;
Dorothy Gates, and Edmund. The family attend the Congregational church
of which the parents and three older children are members. Ever since he
acquired the full rights of citizenship Mr. Loughran has cast his ballot for
the candidates of the republican party. He has never taken an active jiart
in politics, not aspiring to public office, but fulfills his duties as a citizen In-
being at the polls on election day.
J. J. COOX.
J. J. Coon is one of the venerable citizens of Story county, having passed
the eighty-first milestone on life's journey. He was born in Saratoga
county. New York, December 23, 1829, and has, therefore, lived through
the period of America's greatest and most marvelous development. His
parents were Samuel and Elizabeth (Jaco) Coon, both of whom were na-
times of Saratoga county. New ^'ork. The mother died in the Empire
state, but the father passed away in Branch county, Michigan. They were
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 387
the parents of six children : Rensselaer, Elizabeth, J. J., Sarah Jane, Sam-
uel and Louisa, but only the subject of this review is now living.
When six or eight years of age J. J. Coon accompanied his parents on
their removal to Rochester, New York, and remained a resident of Monroe
county until twenty-four years of age. He was with his parents until
about seventeen years of age, when he learned the carpenter's trade and
started out in business for himself. He then went to Michigan, where he
spent one year working at his trade, and in 1856 he came to Story county,
Iowa, casting in his lot with the early settlers who were seeking to re-
claim a wild and unimproved region for the purposes of civilization. He
built the first sawmill of the county and the dam for T. R. Hughes on
Skunk river and afterward worked at the carpenter's trade in the employ
of others for tw^o years. He then returned to Michigan and was married,
after which he brought his wife to Story county. They were fourteen days
in making the trip from Iowa City with three ox teams, for the mud was
so deep that they could make but little progress. Mr. Coon secured one
hundred and ninety-six acres of land, a mile and a half northeast of Gil-
bert, and in exchange gave one hundred and ninety-six days' work at his
trade to T. R. Hughes, its former owner. The land was on the prairie about
three miles from any other habitation, so Mr. Hughes felt that he could not
live there. Mr. Coon, therefore, made the exchange and also paid one hun-
dred and fifty dollars for his present eighty-acre farm on which he has
resided continuously since i860. He afterward purchased an additional
tract of twenty acres and now has a valuable property of one hundred acres
on section 23, Franklin township. He has lived continuously in this county
since 1856 and is one of its best known and most honored pioneers. At the
time of his arrival only one house stood on the present site of Ames. He
attended the celebration held by the college when they were plastering the
first of its main buildings. The occasion was made a most festive one for
all countryside, and Mr. Coon speaks with pleasure of his enjoyment on
that day. He has seen the building of the towns of College and Ames and
witnessed all of the changes which have occurred. In the early days Iowa
City was the nearest railroad point and that was one hundred and forty
miles away. The common subject of conversation in pioneer times was in-
troduced with the question, "How did you cross the slough and which way
is the best to take ?" Nevada was the postoffice and trading point until the
railroad was built to Ames. Mr. Coon managed to get his mail once a
week by taking turns with the neighbors in going to the postoffice. There
were many hardships and trials to be borne in the early period of develop-
ment in Story county, yet there were many pleasures to be enjoyed, for flie
pioneers were hospitable people, whose homes were ever open for the re-
ception of friends and neighbors.
On the 2ist of January, 1858, Mr. Coon completed his arrangements for
having a home of his own by his marriage to Miss Mary J. Hinchey, who
was born in Rochester, New York. June 4, 1838, and when sixteen years
388 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
of age went to Ypsilanti, Michigan, with her parents, there residing until
her marriage. She is a daughter of William S. and Lucy G. (Davis)
Hinchey, who were natives of Saratoga county, New York, and spent their
last days in Ypsilanti. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Coon were born five children:
Louise A., who is the widow of Lemuel Walters and resides in South Da-
kota; Elizabeth, the wife of Alvin Van Campen, of Rochester, Minnesota;
Mary E., the wife of John Hoover, of Ames; Jennie C, the wife of Seward
Mabie, also of Ames; and William P., who is living in Franklin township.
Both Mr. and Mrs. Coon yet enjoy good health and are remarkably
active for people of their age. Mr. Coon seems to possess the vigor of a
man twenty years younger and still works about the farm although he has
passed the eighty-first milestone on life's journey. His wife, too, is splen-
didly preserved and does her own housework. They are numbered among
the worthy pioneer settlers of the county and all who know them are glad
to call them friend. Mr. Coon is familiar with the pioneer history of this
part of the state and shared in all of the experiences of frontier life. .After
locating here he killed three wolves, two fo.xes and one deer within the
county and on one morning he caught fifty-six prairie chickens in a trap.
In 1877 he caught a pike that weighed twenty-two pounds in a dip net in
Skunk river near his home, this being the largest ever caught in this sec-
tion of the state. It was four and a half feet long and might well be a
matter of pride to any fisherman. In his farming operations Mr. Coon dis-
played an enterprising, progressive spirit and as the years have passed by
he has enjoyed substantial success, supplying him with the comforts of
life.
W. P. COON.
W. P. Coon, the youngest of the five children of J. J. and Mar\- Coon,
was born in Franklin township. Story county, April 22, 1867. Through-
out his entire life he has lived in iliis township and since attaining his ma-
jority has given his attention to general farming. He is today busily en-
gaged in the cultivation of a tract of land of one hundred and thirty-one
acres on section 22, whereon he has resided for fifteen years. It is known
as the Riverside farm and is a fine property, well improved, lie makes a
specialty of raising seed corn and is also extensively engaged in the raising
of pigeons, selling about two thousand annually to the Des Moines market.
He finds tliis a profitable industry aixl takes excellent care of the birds, so
that good results are obtained.
In 1892 W. 1'. Coon was married to Miss Nannie Miller, a native of
this county and a daughter of R. J. Miller. Tiiey had two children : Ernest
and Theodore. In 1907 Mr. Coon was again married, his second union
being with Mrs. Grace UnderJiill, a native of Michigan and a daughter of
HISTORY OF STORY COL'XTY
389
D. G. Stone. There is one child by this marriage, Edwin, and they also
have an adopted daughter, Florence. Like his father, Mr. Coon has led a
busy and useful life and is held in high regard throughout the community
wliere he has always made his home.
SEGAR NELSON.
Iowa is indebted to Denmark for many of her ' progressive and enter-
prising citizens and among these must be included Segar Nelson of Rich-
land township, Story county. He was born in Denmark on the 21st of
December, 1846, and is a son of John and Marie Nelson, who spent their
entire lives in the land of the Danes. They were the parents of seven chil-
dren, of whom four became citizens of the United States, namely : John Nel-
son, a resident of Iowa; Ole Nelson, Richland township; Hans Nelson,
Marshall, Iowa; and our subject.
Mr. Nelson of this review came to America in 1873, feeling after
twenty-seven years spent in the old country that his opportunities^ for
acquiring a competence that would enable him to become independent in
the latter years of his life, would be far greater here than there. He had
already served eighteen months in the army of his country and had received
an honorable discharge. On arriving in New Ytork he made his way west-
ward and located in Marshall county, Iowa. He remained there for seven
years and in 1880 he bought one hundred and thirteen acres of land on
section i. Richland township. Story county, where he continues to reside.
He later acquired one hundred and fifty-two acres on another section of the
same township but he has disposed of this. His homestead is one of the
finest farms in this section of the county. It is well stocked with good
iDreeds of cattle and hogs and contains modern improvements, all of which
have been added since he purchased it, the property is kept in excellent
repair and the well tilled fields yield an abundant harvest each year. Every-
thing about the place suggests thrift, good management and careful super-
vision of details. Time was when it was thought that any one could be a
farmer, but it is now universally conceded that it requires just as much
skill, foresight and executive ability to cultivate the soil so that it will
yield profitable returns as to manage any business or industry. That he
was by nature qualified to do the work he chose as his life's vocation Mr.
Nelson has clearly demonstrated, as the arduous work of his early years
enabled him to retire from active farming some time ago.
Mr. Nelson chose for his helpmate Miss Christina Rasmussen and by
this union were born two children: Mary, deceased; and Rasmus A., who
lives at home and manages the farm. Ever since his naturalization con-
ferred upon him the right of sufifrage Mr. Nelson has cast his ballot with
the republican party. He has always taken an active interest in politics and
390 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
was for several years road supervisor and is now a member of the school
board. Both Mr. and Mrs. Nelson hold membership in the Lutheran
church. He is one of the leading men of his community, his industry and
progressive spirit making him one of the honored citizens of Richland
township, whose success and substantial position is regarded as the right-
ful heritage of his many years of close application and unremitting activity.
IIIR.AM F. FERGUSON.
The name of Ferguson is well known in Story county. It has figured
in tlie agricultural development of this portion of the state for many years
and Hiram F. Ferguson is recognized as one whom lovers of the Union
delight to honor. He was a brave soldier when the dissolution of the re-
public was threatened and during his active life was one of the most pro-
gressive citizens of the county, but is now living retired at Nevada.
He was born in Oswego county. New York, April 14. 1843, a son of
Hiram and Ethelinda D. (Dewey) Ferguson. The father was a native of
Oswego county. New York. His grandfather was born in Scotland, com-
ing to this country and settling in New York state, where he was living at
the time of the Revolutionary war. Hiram Ferguson, who was a mill-
wright by trade, came to Iowa in 1854 and readily found employment in
building a sawmill on the Iowa river, near Union in Hardin county. After
comiileting this work he built a mill for John Miller on Skunk river, in
Franklin township, and also for Darius Chandler, at Cambridge. He was
of an inventive turn of mind and originated a water wheel principally for
up and down sawmills, which was used quite extensively throughout the
country for many years. After spending two years in Iowa he went east
for his family and upon returning he lived for a time at Steamboat Rock,
Hardin county, where he had overhauled a mill and put in one of his
wheels, lie built a gristmill and in the fall of 1858 moved his family to
Nevada in order thai the children might have the advantages of school
during the winter. In the spring of 1839. having entered a tract of one
hundred and sixty acres of land in Howard township, he took up his resi-
dence there, the mother of the family passing away the following year.
In 1862 Mr. Ferguson located at demons Grove, Marshall county, and
he died while living at that place. July 14. 1863, at the age of fifty-five
years. I le was an active member of the Methodist church and while in
the east was connected with the Sons of Temperance. Politically he was
identified with the old line whig party and its succes.sor, the republican
party. Mrs. I'-erguson was a native of Connecticut and was also a mem-
ber of the Methodist church. She died May 27. \8Cio. at the age of fifty-
three vears. There were six children in the family. William D., now liv-
ing retired in Oswego county. New Yurk. is a machinist by tra'de and
Mi:. AND MRS. H. K. I'Klil H'SOX
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 393
served with distinction in the Civil war, becoming major of the one Hun-
dred and Eighty- fourth New York \ohmteer Infantry. EHjah prepared
for the ministry but died in Tennessee prior to the Civil war. Harvey
H. passed away in 1863. Jason D. gave up his life for his country in the
battle of Shiloh, April 7, 1862. being then twenty-two years of age. He
enlisted for three months in the First Iowa \'olunteer Infantry, while at-
tending school at Mount \'ernon. and after the expiration of that period
reenlisted in the Twelfth Iowa Infantry, at Cedar Rapids, and was made
first lieutenant of Company D. The Grand Army Post at Nevada is named
in his honor. He was the first man from Story county to be killed in bat-
tle. Hiram F. is the subject of this review. Delia N. married John
Stough. a farmer, and after his death became the wife of George Monlux,
who is also deceased. She is now living at Beaman, Grundy county.
Hiram F. Ferguson received his education in the public schools up to
sixteen years of age and after laying his books aside in the spring of 1859
assisted his father upon the farm for two years. In August, 1861, he en-
listed at Nevada in Company B. Second Iowa Cavalry, and served in the
Civil war until September 19, 1865, at which date he was mustered out at
Selma, Alabama, as sergeant of his company. He took part in many im-
portant battles, sieges and movements, including the siege of Corinth, dur-
ing which a charge was made by his regiment, which stands out promi-
nently in the history of the Army of the West. He was also in the battle
of Booneville, Mississippi, where Sheridan won his spurs as brigadier gen-
eral ; the battle of luka and again at Corinth ; Tupelo ; Nashville ; and in
many skirmishes. His regiment during Hood's advance and retreat was
for sixty-four days almost continuously under fire. After the war Mr.
Ferguson engaged in farming on the old homestead and on other places in
Howard township for many years, finally removing to Story City, where
he lived retired for seven years. Since 1910 he has made his home at
Nevada.
On March 15, 1866, Mr. Ferguson was united in marriage to Miss
Martha J. Ballard, who was born in Will county, Illinois, December 31,
1845. and is a daughter of Moses R. and Eliza (Beecher) Ballard. Moses
Ballard, the American progenitor of the family, was born in England and
came to the United States when he was about eighteen years of age. He
served in a Massachusetts regiment of Minute Men througiiout the entire
Revolutionary war and was in camp at \'alley Forge with \\'ashington.
His son, Moses R. Ballard, removed from Massachusetts to New York
state after marrying Eliza Beecher, the second cousin of Henry Ward
Beecher. He was a blacksmith and worked at his trade until crippled, when
he took up the study of medicine, beginning practice in Monroe county,
New York. He moved to Ohio in 1841 and a year later to Will county,
Illinois, where he practiced his profession and his sons cultivated the farm.
In 1857 he came to Story county and purchased land in Howard town-
ship, where he farmed and practiced medicine until his death, which oc-
394 HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY
curred in 1878, when he was in his seventy-seventh year. His wile died in
1880, at the age of seventy-one years. Politically he gave his support to
the republican party. There were eleven children in the Ballard family :
Russell W., deceased; Hudson L., now living in Missouri at the age of
eighty -two years; Amos B., who enlisted from Minnesota as a soldier of
the Civil war and is now deceased; Devillo P., who served as captain of
Company A, Twenty-third Iowa Infantry, and is now living in Wisconsin;
Mary C, who married George Smith and is now deceased ; Samuel A. and
Volney P., both of whom are deceased; Henry D., who sened in Com-
pany A, Twenty-third Iowa Infantry, in the Civil war and is now living at
Lincoln, Nebraska; Sarah E., who married H. H. Boyes, a farmer of
Homer township; Martha J., now Mrs. Hiram F. Ferguson; and Ruth S.,
who is the wife of O. M. Robbins, a farmer of Kansas.
Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Ferguson: Jason D., now
living upon a land claim in South Dakota, who married Angie Elder and
has four children; Addie R., now the wife of E. W. Kimball, a farmer of
Milford township and the mother of three children; and Mabel C, who
married D. L. Sowers, also a farmer of Milford township, and is the
mother of five children.
Mr. and Mrs. Ferguson are valued members of the Methodist church.
He is a member of Ferguson Post No. 31, G. A. R., of Nevada, and ever
since he arrived at manhood has voted the republican ticket. He has not
aspired to political honors but has held a number of township offices, dis-
charging his duties in such a way as to merit the approval of all concerned.
In the course of a long and active life he has performed his part in the
development of the west and in establishing society on the substantial basis
upon which it exists today. In the evening of his career he enjoys the con-
fidence of a host of friends and a comfort and repose which he has fully
earned.
ALEXANDER HENDERSON.
As mayor of Story City Alexander Henderson has proved one of the
most eflficient officials the municipality has ever known. He has attained an
enviable reputation in this locality, being identified with one of the most
prosperous concerns in the town. He was born in Hamilton county, Iowa,
February 6, 1872, a son of Lars Henryson, whose twin brother, Torkel, is
now living on a farm adjacent to Story City and has reached the venerable
age of eighty-nine years. Lars Henryson, a native of Norway, was a car-
penter and farmer by occupation, lie emigrated to .America in 1855 and
spent ten years in Illinois, removing to a farm near Randall, Hamilton
county, Iowa, in 18O5. He kei)t a jiostoffice on his fami for over twenty
years and was one of the leading men of the county, serving as county
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY ,-595
supervisor and justice of the peace. He was considered a good scholar
and was a surveyor of estabhshed reputation, often performing work of that
kind for his neighbors. As a carpenter he assisted in erecting many of the
early buildings and when living in Illinois was often called upon to make
coffins for the early settlers. He passed his declining years in the town of
Randall in honorable retirement, passing away in 1896, at the age of seventy-
six years. Mr. Henryson was twice married and had eight children by his
first union, three of whom died in infancy. His second wife wjts Sarah
Michaelsdatter, who survives her husband and is now living at Randall,
Iowa. She is the mother of seven children, namely: M. L., of Randall;
M., superintendent of the electric light and water-works of Story City; A.
M., at present postmaster at Story City; Alexander, the subject of this
review; :\Irs. Annie Williams, of Randall; O. J., a successful practicing
attorney, of Webster City, Iowa; and Mrs. Maggie Sowers, of Story county.
Ale.xander Henderson received his early education in the district schools
and later attended the Story City Business College and the Highland Park
College at Des Moines, Iowa. He was early taught the importance and
value of labor and received upon the home farm a good training in agri-
culture and stock-raising, becoming thoroughly acquainted with all the
details along those lines. In the fall of 1895 he came to Story City and for
two years served as bookkeeper. In 1897 he entered the furniture and
embalming business, the name of the firm for the last twelve years being
Jondall & Henderson. It is the only concern of the kind in Story City and
has a floor space of four thousand eight hundred square feet, two floors
being well packed with a carefully selected stock. Mr. Henderson is thor-
oughly qualified as an embalmer, receiving a diploma in 1899, and was the
first person in Story City who w-as thoroughly prepared to apply strictly
modern methods of embalming. He is also president of the Northwestern
Land Company, which controls large interests in Minnesota, town property
in Story City, etc. He is a stockholder of the First National bank,
has also been a director of the Story City Telephone Company and for
twelve years secretary of the Story City Farmers Creamery company.
On the 28th of September, 1897, Mr. Henderson was united in marriage
to Miss Mabel Tendeland, who was born at Marshalltown, Iowa, and reared
in Story City. Three children came to brighten the home of Mr. and Mrs.
Henderson, Lester, Grace and Beatrice.
Mr. Henderson is an active worker in the republican party and has
twice been a delegate to the republican county convention. He served for
six years as alderman, being chairman of the water-works committee and
also active in other important capacities. In 1908 he was elected mayor of
Story City and has since occupied that office. He has paid special attention
to the promotion of good government, being a firm advocate of a business
administration in municipal affairs, and as overseer of the poor has done
much to relieve the unfortunate. He has been prominent in the promotion
of good roads and the excellent condition of the roads in the vicinity of
396 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Story City is largely due to his efforts. Fraternally he is identitied with
the Knights of Pythias, was for six years keeper of the records and seal
and has passed through all the chairs of the lodge, being now past chancelor
commander. Me is also a valued member of the Modem Woodmen of
America and he and his family affiliate with St. Peter's Norwegian Lutheran
church. He is a man of many genial characteristics and at the same time
is a thorough business man of systematic and methodical habits, who has
the ability to advance his own interests and also to add largely to the com-
fort and happiness of others. He is an uncompromising advocate of tem-
perance and has successfully led in many a conflict with the forces of the
opposition. Much of his success is due to his knowledge of human nature
and the ability lie possesses of reading aright the motives of those with
whom he has come into contact. Today he clearly occupies a position as a
leader in this section.
TilOM.AS 11 EM STOCK.
Among tlic well known and enterprising agriculturists of Story county
is Thomas Hemstock, wluj owns one of the finest and best equipped farms
in Union township. He is of Fnglish parentage and was born on the Isle
of Man on the 1st of June, 1832, being a son of Thomas Hemstock. He
was but si.K weeks old when the family sailed for America. Landing at
New York, they soon removed to the interior of the Empire state, where
they lived for one year, and then went to Lorain county, Ohio, but at the
end'of a year again moved, locating this time in Winnebago county, Illinois.
Three years later Mrs. Hemstock died, when her son was only five years
of age, too young to have any recollection of his mother whatever. Later
the father married Miss Martha Taylor and continued to make Illinois his
home until 1870, when he migrated to Iowa, settling in Union township,
Story county, where he lived until his death at the age of si.\ty-five years.
Mr. Hemstock made his home on the farm with his father and ste])-
mother and, being the eldest of the family, he obtained but meager educa-
tion. The work of the farm was heavy and only at such times as he could
be spared was he permitted to attend the brief sessions of the district school.
On the 23d of March, 1852, he left home and with an ox team took the over-
land route to California. It was a long, hard trip but life on the frontier
had inured him to hardships and privations and, nothing daunted, with light
heart and bright dreams of what the west held in store for him he started.
On the 3d day of the following .August he drove into Placertown. l^ldorado
county. California, and for fourteen years he followed mining in California,
Montana and Idaho, ever hoping, despite discouragements and misfortune-,
to make a "find." In SqUenibcr, i8r/), he returned to the old hjmc in Illi-
nois and after remaining there for a time came to Story county, Iowa, to
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 397
visit a brother. While here he bought his present home farm of one hun-
dred and sixty-six acres, for which he paid ten dollars per acre, all of which
was unbroken prairie with the exception of fifty acres.
Returning to his old home in Illinois for a time Mr. Hemstock was
united in marriage on the 7th of January, 1867, to Miss Louise C. Randall
who was a daughter of Ira Randall, a veteran of the Civil war, living in
Wisconsin. Later Mr. Randall removed to Nebraska, where he died. Im-
mediately after marriage the young couple returned to Iowa and located on
the farm which Mr. Hemstock had purchased in the fall. They arrived in
Story county on the loth of January, 1867, and have lived here continuously
ever since. Mr. Hemstock has been most successful, despite the many hard-
ships and discouragements endured during the early days, and now owns
three hundred and fifty acres of as valuable farm land as can be found in
this section of the country. Thrift, tireless energy and absolute confidence
in the ultimate victory has ])laced him among the substantial and aftluent
farmers in this community.
Four children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Hemstock, three of whom sur-
vive : Willard P., who is a farmer of Union township, this county ; Arthur
\ ., a farmer of Grant township ; and Bernie B., who at present is managing
the home farm. The family always attend the Methodist Episcopal church,
in which Mrs. Hemstock holds membership. She is very active in all church
work, particularly that of the Jefi'erson Aid Society. Mr. Hemstock always
votes for the candidates of the democratic party and that he is highly
esteemed by his fellow citizens is demonstrated by the fact that for many
years he served as supervisor, township trustee, director of the school board
and in other township offices. That he proved to be efficient in all instances
is borne out by his repeated reelection. He is and has been during his
forty-four years residence here one of the well known men of the com-
munity. His influence and support could always be counted upon in any
measure that bid fair to benefit or improve conditions in his community.
When a very young man in Idaho territory Mr. Hemstock joined the
Masonic fraternity and has ever continued a loyal member of that body,
letting its basic principles mold and direct his life. At present he is iden-
tified with Nevada Lodge, No. 99, A. F. & A. M.
ANDREW^ MALAND.
As an educator and molder of public opinion, Andrew Maland, pro-
prietor and editor of the Slater News, is accorded general recognition in
Story county. His personal worth and his valuable services as a leader in
politics received recognition by President Roosevelt, who appointed him
postmaster of .Slater, a position he still occupies. Thrown upon his own
resources at an early age, he overcame every obstacle and through un-
398 lllSTURV UF STORY COUNTY
daunted perseverance won his way to the responsible position he now
occupies.
He was born in Palestine township, January 19, 1874, a son of lohn
and I'.ngeljor .Maland. The parents were both born in Norway and were
married in their native country, coming to the United Stales in i860. They
spent one year at Morris, Illinois, and then located in Story county, Iowa.
The father purchased eighty acres of land on section 36, Palestine township,
on which he resided until his death in 1895. The mother is still living,
having arrived at the age of seventy-five years, and makes her home in
Slater.
.Andrew Maland was reared under conditions that early acquainted him
with hard work. He possessed limited advantages of education in the dis-
trict schools but was ambitious to study the higher branches, believing that if
he had a good mental training, he could better perform his part in the
world. When sixteen years of age he was in attendance at the State Nor-
mad School at Cedar Falls, working for his board and in various ways
earning money to pay his expenses. That he succeeded is shown by the
fact of his coming hoine after the first term with fifteen dollars in his pocket.
He also attended Highland Park College and at nineteen years of age began
teaching at Renwick, where he continued for two years, then going to Hum-
be Idt, where he taught for one year and from that place to Hu.xley, teach-
ing for three years in that vicinity. He completed his training at the State
Normal School in 1899. but, having come to the conclusion that the remu-
neration for educational work was too .small, he gave up teaching. Going
to Slater, he formed a partnership with O. J. \'iland and purchased the
furniture business of Halverson Brothers, the new firm being known as
-Maland & X'iland. In 1902 they purchased the Slater News, a weekly
newspaper, and Mr. Maland continued its publication under the same title,
also remaining in the furniture business. In 1906 he was appointed post-
master of Slater, and the printing plant and postoffice demanding his en-
tire time, he and Mr. \'iland mutually agreed to sever their business rela-
tions, Mr. \ilan(l taking the furniture store and Mr. Maland the printing
plant, of which he has since had entire charge. He has also been success-
fully identified with other business enterprises, being secretary and manager
of the Farmers' Cooperative Creamery Company for five years, carrying the
concern through its early struggles and jilacing it on a substantial basis.
On the loth of October, 1900, Mr. Maland was united in marriage to
Miss Bessie Wald. a sister of S. O. Wald, an attorney of Slater, and previ-
ous to her marriage a popular teacher of that vicinity. Two children
bles.sed this union. Ella B. and Obert J. Mrs. Maland was called from
earthly scenes on the lOth of January, 1909. She was a woman of man\
e.stimable qualities and her death wa< the .severest loss Mr. Maland ha~
ever known.
Politically he has from the lime of casting his first ballot been in thor-
ough sympathy with the rei^ublican party. Since the age of fifteen \ear<
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 399
he has been connectetl with public office, having served as township com-
mitteeman, member of the school board, member of the town council and
in other capacities. He has been a prominent factor in local politics and in
1910 was campaign manager, succeeding in nominating M. S. Helland as
a member of the legislature. He is a leader in every movement pertaining
to die welfare of Slater and vicinity, going to the extent of guaranteeing
payment for good public entertainments for the town. Fraternally he is
identified with Slater Lodge, No. 384, I. O. O. F., and in religious affairs
he gives his allegiance to the Lutheran church, for four years serving as
superintendent of the Sunday school and leader in the choir. He was the
organizer of the Central Luther League and its secretary for several
years, from which was developed the Luther League of Iowa, one of the
most important movements in the Lutheran church in this part of the coun-
try during recent years.
CHARLES H. HALL.
Among the young men engaged in the active practice of law in Story
coimty is Charles H. Hall, of Nevada, who is now fairly launched in the
second year of his professional career. He was born in Peoria, Iowa,
October 25, 18S0, a son of James ]\I. and Alary Jane (Bell) Hall. The
father was born in Indiana and has been identified with the mercantile
business ever since reaching manhood. He is now living at Collins, Iowa,
and is fifty-six years of age. Aside from his business his attention for
many years has been given to the church and Sunday school. He is a
stanch worker in the Methodist denomination and has been superintendent
of a Sunday school for twenty years past. Politically he is identified with
the republican party and fraternally with the Masonic order. He is a man
of good business qualifications, unsullied character and the possessor of
those attributes which are most essential in progressive citizenship. The
mother of our subject was born at Valparaiso, Indiana, and is also an active
member of the Methodist church. There were five children in the family
of Air. and Airs. Hall, namely : Clara, who married H. C. Denniston, a
farmer, now living near Collins ; Charles H., our subject ; Grace, now Mrs.
O. G. Smith, of Nevada ; Milo, a shoe salesman of Des Moines, Iowa ; and
Jennie, at home.
Charles H. Hall was reared in a peaceful home and even as a boy gave
indications of a studious and thoughtful disposition which pointed to a pro-
fessional career. He attended the public schools of Collins, graduating from
the high school in the class of 1899, being then nineteen years of age. In
1902 he entered mercantile business at Colo, Story county, in which he con-
tinued for four years, at the end of which time he matriculated in the law
department of Drake University, graduating therefrom with the degree
400 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
of LL.B. in June, 1909. In July following he began practice at Nevada,
where he has since remained, meeting with a success that has been highly
gratifying.
On January i, 1902, Mr. Hall was united in marriage to Miss Addie
May Triplett, who w^as born in Elkins, West \irginia. in June. 1880, a
daughter of Hickman and Martha (Chenoweth) Triplett. Mr. Triplett is
one of the prominent farmers of his state. One child, Oscar Lelantl, born
July 31, 1910, has blessed the union of Mr. and Mrs. Hall.
Mr. Hall has won the position of responsibility and respect which he
holds in the community by earnest, conscientious and well directed effort
and as he possesses the requisites of education and natural ability, there is
no doubt in the minds of his friends that he will be able to meet their ex-
pectations in the years to come. He has gained a fair share of patronage
and as time progresses it is steadily increasing, his patrons being among
the best class of citizens in the city and county. He and his wife are con-
sistent members of the Methodist church and liberal contributors tow-ard its
support. He is a member of the Story County Bar Association and has
many friends in that well established organization. He is also identified
with Columbia Lodge, A. F. & A. M., at Colo, and with the Modern Wood-
men of America. Since arriving at voting age he has cast his ballot in be-
half of the republican party and although he has not sought public office his
efforts have been freely expended in support of candidates and princi|]les
that lie believes to be essential to the permanent prosperity of the state and
tiation.
W. T. B. SHENKLE.
Some men have several talents and appear to be almost equally at home
in whatever they undertake. To this class belongs W. T. B. Shenkle, who
for ten years past has been engaged in the real-estate business at Collins.
Reared as a farmer, he devoted a number of years to agriculture and then
engaged in mercantile business, finally selectng his present occujiation as
the one that most appealed to his judgment. He deals largely in farm land^
and has met with a goodly measure of success.
He was born in Collins township, July 7, 1858, son of Benjamin and
Edith (Day) Shenkle. They were both natives of Brown county, Ohio,
and removed with their respective parents to Marion county. Indiana, where
they grew to maturity and were married. In 1856 the Shenkle family, with
that of William Fertig. started westward, their destination being Fort Scott.
Kansas. They journeyed by water down the Ohio river, then u\i the Mi~
sissippi to the mouth of the Missouri, thence to Kansas City. On reachinj,'
the latter point they heard much talk of troubles in Kansas on arcount of
the slavery question and they decided to seek a more peaceable region.
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
401
Being very favorably impressed with what they had heard concerning this
section of Iowa, J\lr. Shenkle outfitted with a team of horses and a wagon
and his friend purchased an ox team and wagon as their means of trans-
portation to their new home. On the 2cl day of May they arrived at Eden-
ville, now Rhodes, Alarshall county, Iowa, where they remained for a time.
Mr. Shenkle visited Story county and being very much pleased with the ap-
pearance of the countrv", purchased a tract of raw prairie land which he
broke, also erecting a log cabin to which he removed his family in the fall
of 1856. His farm consisted of two hundred acres, of which eighty acres
was timber and was considered a clioice piece of land on account of the
timber, but the price which he paid — five dollars an acre — was thought by
settlers to be highly exorbitant. The same land would now readily bring
one hundred and fifty dollars per acre. The first election for the organiza-
tion of the township was held at Mr. Shenkle's home, and as the country
was quite thinly inhabited, there were only five votes cast at this time. The
township was named Collins in honor of a township in New York state,
from which one of the nearest neighbors of Mr. Shenkle came. Mr.
Shenkle was active in the councils of the democratic party and was first clerk
of the tow^nship, holding that position until his death, which occurred in
1865. Mrs. Shenkle continued on the home farm until after her children
were grown up, and then she made her home with the subject of this review,
being called to her reward May 3, 1898, at the age of eighty-three years.
W. T. B. Shenkle was reared under the healthful conditions of a coun-
try home and acquired his early education in the common schools. At
twelve years of age he was placed in charge of the home farm, his older
brothers having gone out into the world, and when he reached his eighteenth
year he began operating rented land on his own account. After his mar-
riage he removed to a farm of eighty acres, which he had purchased a year
previously, located two and one-half miles east of Collins. He continued
upon that place for ten years and then removed to Collins, where in 1898 he
was placed in charge of a hardware business, which he managed success-
fully for one year. In 1899 he went to Churdan, Greene county, Iowa, and
was identified with the hardware business there, in partnership with a
brother-in-law, the title of the firm being Tipton & Shenkle. After eighteen
months' experience they closed out the business and Mr. Shenkle returned
to Collins and opened a real-estate office. He has since been interested in
farm lands and has found the business so congenial to his taste that it is
probable he will so continue for a number of years to come.
In 1887 Mr. Shenkle was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Tipton,
of Collins township, a daughter of Leonard and Isadora (Eatherton) Tip-
ton, natives of Ohio. They came to Cedar county, Iowa, in 1851, and lo-
cated in Story county in 1877. The mother passed away February 4, 1904,
and the father is now making his home with his daughter at Collins. One
child, Eva, who dierl in infancy, was born to Mr. and Mrs. Shenkle.
402 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Mr. Shenkle has spent over fifty years in the part of the state where he
now lives and few men are better acquainted with its resources. He early
became thoroughly familiar with agricultural pursuits and as a business
man has shown a discrimination and sound judgment that have added
greatly to his reputation, so that today he is one of the best known real-
estate men in this section. He is a member of Fervent Lodge, No. 513, A.
F. & A. M.; Amity Lodge, Xo. 361, L O. O. F. ; and the Mystic Workers
of the World, and he and his wife are connected with the Order of the
Eastern Star and the United Brethren church. Politically he is an earnest
supporter of the republican party, and although he has never sought po-
litical office he has been active in assisting many of his friends who have
done so.
GEORGE HYDEX.
One of the successful agriculturists and extensive landowners of Story
county was George Hyden of Richland township, who passed away Febru-
ary 23, 191 1, honored and respected by all who knew him. He was born
in Staffordshire, England, on the 12th of May, 1828, and was a son of
Robert and Elizabeth (Xokes) Hydcn, both of whom spent their entire
lives in that country, the father living to the advanced age of one hundred
and two and one-half years. Four children constituted the family, all of
whom have now passed away.
Mr. Hyden spent the first twenty-three years of liis life in the mother
country and then in 1851 decided to become a citizen of the United States,
believing that this country afforded better opportunities for ambitious
young men. Crossing the Atlantic he landed at Xew York city and made
his way to Fredonia, New York, where he hired out by the year for tJiree
and one-half years and then again started westward, settling at Rock Island,
Illinois. He remained there only about si.x months, however, and in the
spring of 1835 arrived in Story county. .After working out for eleven
months he entered one hundred and si.xty acres of land on section 22, Rich-
land township, which was unbroken and unimproved prairie. He began
to cultivate the soil, adding such improvements as he could from time to
time and in 1857 he erected the house in which he continued to live through-
out life. Mr. Hyden was successful in his vocation, his good management
and tireless energy being rewarded by the means which enabled him to
later add two hundred acres to his realty holdings, but this he subsequently
sold to his son-in-law. He then owned, in addition to his homestead, eighl\
acres on section 27, Richland township, and one-half section in Texas.
Mr. Hydcn was wedded to Miss Louisa Pool, a daughter of John and
Ann Pool. She died in 1891. Of this union there were seven children
born, two of whom are still living: Gorilla is the wife of Clark Apple and
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 403
the mother of five children. Rose is the wife of J. C. Hilburn, who was
born in Spencer. Owen county. Indiana, and is a son of J. C. and Bridget
Hilburn. His parents were both dead ere he left home, and before coming
to Iowa he spent some time in Kansas and Nebraska. He has been a resi-
dent of Story county about twenty years. He purchased land in Richland
township, which he subsequently sold and then bought the farm which he
now occupies from his father-in-law. He is recognized as one of the lead-
ing citizens of the community and is held in high regard wherever known.
To .Mr. and Mrs. Hilburn have been born the following children: Willis,
George Howard, Blanch, Beulah, Clarence and Walter.
After he acquired the rights of full citizenship through naturalization
Mr. Hyden cast his vote with the republican party. The esteem in which
he was held was indicated by his election to many of the township offices,
the duties of which he discharged to the satisfaction of the community.
He was one of the most respected and substantial farmers of his section
and during his residence here won many friends, whose esteem and good-
will he alwavs retained.
FRED HOLTBY.
That the United States affords the possibilities which warrant the am-
bitious young man or woman in aspiring to almost any goal with full
confidence of attaining it is universally conceded and to such men as Fred
Holtby it has ever proven not only the land of promise but of fulfillment.
Mr. Holtby was born in Yorkshire. England, on the loth of March, 1865,
a son of Stephen and Ana (Holtby) Holtby, also natives of Yorkshire,
where they lived and died. The father was a farmer by occupation.
Our subject was reared on the home farm, acquiring his preliminary
education in the village school and later being sent to a boarding school for
a more advanced course, as is the custom in that country. On attaining
his majority he decided that conditions in the United States offered better
opportunities to ambitious young men than those of conservative England.
He, therefore, set sail for America, landing in New York with twelve dol-
lars in his pocket. Undaunted, however, he made his way west and located
in Morgan county, Illinois, where he worked as a farm hand. He remained
there for six years, carefully laying aside a portion of his meager wage
each month in order that he, too, might become a landowner. In June,
1892, he again set his face toward the west, Iowa being his destination this
time. He stopped in Story county for a short time and then rented a farm
just over the line in Jasper county, about five miles south of Collins, where
he began farming for himself. After six years of economy, good manage-
ment and unremitting toil he had secured sufficient means to enable him to
make a start for himself, so he purchased a small farm in Jasper county.
404 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Three years more of thrift, hard work and good judgment in the manage-
ment of his affairs enabled him to buy a farm of one hundred and lifty-three
acres in Story county, three miles east of Collins ; here he resided for nine
years, and then, in the spring of 1909, he sold his place and bought his
present home farm of one hundred and ten acres in Indian Creek township.
For the past twelve years Mr. Holtby has made a specialty of breeding and
raising registered Shire horses. He has been most successful in this, being
known throughout this section of the state not only for the excellent breeds
he carries but for his ability in judging the good points of a horse. He
began exhibiting his slock at the local fairs in 1896 and since then has taken
many first premiums.
On the i6th of February, 1892, Mr. Holtby was united in marriage to
Miss Ada M. Thursby. a native of Morgan county, Illinois, and a daughter
of Charles and Ann ( Smith ) Thursby, both natives of England. They
came to the United States in 1855, first locating in Stark county. Illinois.
but later removing to Morgan county. Three children have been born of
this union: Orlando O., now attending the Capital City Commercial Col-
lege in Des Moines ; Hazel and Ana.
The family attend the Methodist Episcopal church, of which the parents
are members. Mr. Holtby 's fraternal relations are confined to membershii)
in the Modern Woodmen of America. After he had become a naturalized
citizen of the United States he decided that the policy of the re|niblican
party best conformed to his ideas and has therefore always cast his vote
for the candidates of that party. That he has ever proved a capable and
loyal citizen is confirmed by the fact that for several years he has been
elected to various township offices. He is known throughout the community
where he makes his home as one of the thoroughly reliable and capable
men of the county and is highly regarded by all.
WII.I.IAM 1',UR\"1-:Y.
Of the many agencies thai have conlriliulcd lo tlie remarkable growth
of Iowa, none have been more important than the country press. Its
editors are in many instances men of liberal education and gooil business
cai)acily. and no class of men has been more faithful in the di.scharge of
responsibilities or more loyal to the people it represents. William r.urncy,
editor and proprietor of the Collins Gazette, clearly belongs to the highly
capable newsi)aper men of Iowa. He was born in the north of Ireland,
July 14. 1S50. near the city of Portadown, a son of James and Ann (Od-
gcrs) I'.urncy. also natives of County Armagh. The father was reared on
a farm but after reaching maturity learned the boilermaker's trade and in
later years was employed in shiiibuilding on the west coast of Scotland, to
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 405
which section he removed with his family before his son WiUiam was one
year old.
\\ illiam Burney received his preliminary education in the public schools
of Partick and later attended the Mechanics Institute and the Athenaeum
of Glasgow, showing a mental capacity that gave bright promise as to his
future. When a young man he made musical theory and research a special
study and was granted membership in and was given an advanced certificate
from the Tonic-Sol-Fa College of London. England. He was also attracted
to mercantile pursuits and engaged as a commercial salesman, traveling
considerably in Great Britain. During these years he was correspondent
for various publications. In 1885 he came to central Iowa to visit relatives
living near Xewton and very soon after arriving in this state was invited
by Perry Engle. owner of the Newton Herald, to become identified with
that paper. I\Ir. Engle was soon after this a candidate for state senator
and after his election to that position Mr. Burney became part owner of
the paper and its managing editor, soon gaining a prominent position in
the political affairs of that section. After an experience of ten years with
the Herald he for one year had charge of the Newton Times, whose owner,
Mr. Sherman, was then serving as postmaster under President Cleveland.
In May, 1896, Mr. Burney came to Collins and purchased the Collins Clipper,
which he published under the same title until after acquiring in September,
1905, The Liberator, also issued at Collins. He consolidated the two papers,
changing the name to the Collins Gazette, now one of the leading local
publications in this part of the state.
In August, 1876, Mr. Burney was united in marriage to Miss ]\Iargaret
Hamilton Gibson, of Glasgow, Scotland, who passed away, and on October
7, 1884, he was married to Miss Jane Elizabeth Finch, the ceremony taking
place at Drumbanagher Episcopal church, County Armagh, Ireland. Of
this union five children have been born, namely: Mary Florence, now the
wife of L. H. Ozias, superintendent of schools at Dysart, Iowa; Anne
Lena, the wife of Arthur A. Vasey. a lumberman of Collins; Alice Widell,
a primary teacher at Des Moines, Iowa ; Elizabeth Finch, a teacher of voice
at the Teachers College of Cedar Falls, Iowa ; and William James, now
a student in the Teachers College at Cedar Falls.
Politically Mr. Burney gives his support to the republican party, be-
lieving that its principles are best adapted to secure the prosperity of the
nation. He is a member of Sunbeam Lodge, No. 181, Mystic Workers of
the World, and has served as secretary of this organization since 1898,
also being a demitted member of St. Barchan Lodge, A. F. & A. M., of
Renfrewshire, Scotland. He and his wife are affiliated with the Methodist
Episcopal church, in which he serves as trustee. He is a clear and inter-
esting writer and his paper has a high standing in a state that abounds in
good newspapers, its editors ranking among the most intelligent men of
Iowa. The Collins Gazette has a large circle of readers, its influence in a
great degree being due to the conscientious position which the paper takes
406 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
in matters of vital interest to the locality. Mr. Burney, judging by what
he has accomplished, made no mistake in selecting Iowa as his adopted
state, and it is doubtful whether a more patriotic citizen is to be found
within its borders than the gentleman whose sketch is here given.
B. C. DUELAXD.
I"cw men deserve the credit that belongs to B. C. Dueland, now in the
milling business at Slater, who from a water boy on a railroad has become
one of the substantial business men of Story county. His career is a
practical demonstration of what may be accomplished by one who is actuated
by right principles antl who bravely faces every difficulty, being fully
determined that it must give way. He is a native of Norway, born August
25, 1866, and is a son of Qirist C. and Mary Dueland. The family left
that country for America in 1882, coming direct to Iowa and locating in
Sheldahl. The father is by trade a painter but for sometime after arriving
in this country he worked on the railroad or at any honorable labor he
could find to do. Finally he secured employment at his trade. He is still
living and makes his home with the subject of this review.
B. C. Dueland was educated in his native country, receiving advantage
of only two or three months attendance in American schools after arriving
in Iowa. It was necessary for him to assist in the maintenance of the
family and at sixteen years of age he was employed as a fann hand by
T. T. Ryan, of Palestine township. The following summer he secured a
position as water boy for a railway construction gang and for four years
followed this work and also engaged as a farm hand. In 1888, having
decided to learn a trade, he became an apprentice in the grist-mill at
Sheldahl, in which he spent three and one-half years, becoming thoroughly
acquainted with the trade. In 1891 he formed a partnership with John
Nielson and rented the mill from his former employer, operating it under
the firm name of Nielson & Dueland. In the fall of 1894 they purchased a
two-thirds interest in the mill at Slater and seven months later acquired
the remaining interest, becoming sole owners. The mill up to this time
had produced nothing but feed, and desiring to meet the (lenian<]s of a
growing community, the partners enlarged the building and \iu{ in a modern
roller process, thus making the mill one of the leading Inisincss enter|)rises
of that section. However, in April, 1910, the town was visited by a con-
flagration, which destroyed the mill, the depot and two freight houses.
Messrs. Nielson and Dueland were not to be easily discouraged, and they
immediately purchased the elevator building of Oley Nelson, in which they
made many alterations, fitting the structure with mill machinery and enter-
ing upon a new era of |5rosperily. In connection with their milling busi-
ness they deal extensively in coal and feed and are now enjoying the largest
patronage they have ever known.
HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY 407
On the 13th of November, 1896, .Mr. Dueland was united in marriage
to :\Iiss .Alary Sydnes, of Huxley township, a daughter of R. T. Sydnes, a
prominent farmer now Hving retired at Huxley. Five children have blessed
this union : Lillian, Raymond, Myrtle, Glendora and Carl.
Politically Mr. Dueland gives his support to the prohibitionist party.
He is a valued member of the school board of Slater and for several years
has served as judge of election. He and his wife are identified with the
Lincoln Lutheran church and for eleven years he has been a member of the
board of trustees of that organization. Having worked his way through
many obstacles, Mr. Dueland, as shown in this brief sketch, is not an
mdividual that becomes easily cast down. He has been successful in busi-
ness, gaining the confidence of the community by his, straightforward deal-
ings and a spirit of helpfulness to others, which is one of his prominent
characteristics. His friends are many and under all conditions it is recog-
nized that his word is as good as his bond.
MAURITS MALMIN.
Among the children of Scandinavia who have become subjects of Uncle
Sam and citizens of Story county must be included Maurits Malmin, who
was born in Norway on the 15th of September, 1846. He acquired his
education in his native land and when he had reached the required age
entered the Norwegian army, spending five years of his early manhood in
the service of his country. He became an expert shot and two of his most
prized possessions now are medals he won because of his ability in this
direction.
Air. Malmin became a resident of Story county in 1881, engaging in
farm work by the month for the first two years and then by the day for a
year thereafter. At the end of that period he had acquired sufficient capital
to enable him to begin the cultivation of land as a renter. After following
this for eight years, by means of close application, unceasing energy and
careful management he had accumulated the requisite savings to permit
him to become a property owner and bought the first one hundred and
sixty acres of his present homestead. He established his residence here
in 1893 and has added to his holdings from time to time until he now has
the title to three hundred and twenty acres, owning one of the most valu-
able farms in the township. It is well stocked, the improvements are good
and always in repair, while its carefully cultivated fields yield abundant and
profitable harvests. His specialty is the feeding and raising of cattle and
hogs, and he is a stockholder in the Farmers Elevator Company as well as
the creamery.
Mr. Malmin completed his arrangements for a home of his own by his
marriage to Miss Karen Hoverson Lura, a daughter of Hover Lura. Nine
408 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
children have been born of this union, they are as follows: Carrie, who
became the wife of Ole lioiigen; Harry; Bertha, deceased; Gerhard;
Adolph; Martin; Bertha, now the wife of Ole V. Oleson; Clara, at home;
and Laura Matilda, the wife of Thomas Grimslay.
The family attend the Lutheran church, in which the parents hold
membership. Ever since he has acquired tlie right of suffrage through
naturalization, Mr. .Mahiiin has cast his vote for the republican party, feel-
ing that its policy is best adapted to serve the interests of the majority.
His fellow citizens have honored him by election to the office of road
supervisor, in which capacity he is now serving his eighth year. He is one
of the esteemed citizens of Warren township and is highly regarded by
the communitv in wliich he resides.
1"R.V.\K S. SMlllI. M. D.
Dr. Frank S. Smith, practicing in Nevada, is recognized as one of the
most capable and successful members of the medical profession in Story
county. He was burn in X'enango county, Pennsylvania. July 31. 1853.
His father, William Smith, was born in Chautauqua, New York, January
18, 1826, and was a son of the Rev. Salmcron Smith, of Massachusetts.
The latter nKirrieil a Miss .\very. who was a descendant of Governor Dud-
ley of Massachusetts, .\fter arriving at years of maturity William Smith
was united in marriage to Cynthia Smith, who was born near Lachine
Rapids on the St. Lawrence in Canada on the 20th of May, 1829. and
though of the same name was not a relative of her husband. Her father,
Francis Smith, was born and reared in Ireland. The marriage of William
and Cynthia Smith was celebrated in \cnango county, Pennsylvania, De-
cember 28, 1848, and while living in the Keystone state tlie father was
owner of a tract of land near Oil Creek, Pennsylvania. A few years after
he sold that property and came west, petroleum was found there, and it is
said that more millions of dollars were taken from that farm through the
development of the oil wells than from any other piece of land in the
world. Two cousins of Di'. .'^iiiilh arc imw pumping oil from the well-
there, as their father did before thei'i. and wells and derricks cover the
ground until it looks like a harbor with the masts of many sailing vessels
placed as close together as possible. It was in tlie year 1855 that William
Smith left Pennsylvania with his family, lie lived for brief periods in
Ohio, Michigan and Wisconsin and in i860 became a resident of .\ndalu-
sia. Rock Island county, Illinois, making his way down the Mississii)iii
river on a lumber raft. William .Smith was engaged in the lumber busi-
ness continuously from his seventeenth year until his death at the .age of
sixty-eight with the exception of about three years spent on the farm on
which his son Dr. Smith was born, and even during that time he eng.aged
DK. KKAXK S. SMIIII
c
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 411
in the lumber business for a part of the year on the Allegheny river. He
conducted a large retail lumberyard at Andalusia, Illinois, from i860 until
1S83, when he removed to Toledo, Iowa, where he continued in the same
line until the time when death claimed him on the 30th of May, 1894. He
was a member of the United Brethren church and was a stalwart republi-
an throughout his entire life. A strong, rugged man both mentally and
physically, he proved himself an important factor in the public life and the
affairs of the communities in which he lived. His wife, a woman of strong
personality, had but meager educational advantages in her girlhood but was
determined that all of her children should be well educated and bent every
energy toward accomplishing this purpose, so that all are now college grad-
uates. They owe much to their mother for what she did for them and they
sacredly cherish her memory. She survived her husband for a few years
and passed away October 21, 1900.
In their family were six children. The eldest. Dr. E. R. Smith, now of
Toledo, Iowa, was born in Venango county, Pennsylvania, October 4, 1851.
Dr. Smith, of this review, is the second of the family. Lucy, the third
child, died in infancy. Walter C. was born in Jackson county. Wisconsin,
April 5. 1857, and is now residing in Toledo, Iowa. Nellie May, born at
Pine Hill. Wisconsin, April 13, 1865, is the wife of O. O. Rimkle, of Tififin,
Ohio. William Avery, born in Andalusia, Illinois, November 19, 1870, is
a lawyer practicing at Nashua, Iowa.
Dr. Smith, of Nevada, acquired his early education in the public schools
of Andalusia, a beautiful little town twelve miles below Rock Island on
the Mississippi river. He afterward had two years of college work at
Westfield College in Westheld, Illinois, from 1870 until 1872, and spent the
school year of 1874-5 in the State University of Iowa but completed his
course in the Western College of Iowa, now the Leander Clark College,
from which he was graduated with the Bachelor of Science degree in 1876.
In the meantime he had taught several terms of school in Rock Island
county and following his graduation he became principal of the South Mo-
line public schools, remaining in that position for nearly four years. Dur-
ing that period he devoted his leisure hours to studying medicine at home
under the direction of his brother. Dr. E. R. Smith. In the fall of 1880
he matriculated in Rush Medical College of Chicago, where he pursued a
thorough course, with an extra course in the summer of 1881. and was
graduated with the professional degree on the 21st of February, 1882.
In the meantime Dr. Smith had been married and lost his first wife. On
Christmas day of 1878 he wedded Miss Etta Dilling, who had been his class- -
mate in Western College and was an Iowa girl. They resided in Moline
until the death of Mrs. Smith on the i6th of March, 1880. An infant
daughter survived, Etta Maude, who was born February 22, 1880, and was
reared by Dr. Smith's parents.
Following his graduation from medical college Dr. Smith located in
Tama county, Iowa, where he spent the summer of 1882 in practice with
412 HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY
his brother, Dr. E. R. Smith, of Toledo. In the fall of that year he opened
an office in Elberon, Tama coimty. and soon won gratifying professional
recognition. On the 30th of September of that year he was married in
Rock Island, Illinois, to Miss Ella Wells, a childhood playmate, and there
their son. Roy Wells Smith, was born December 13. 1883. They resided
at Elberon until March 4, 1885, when they removed to Nevada, where Dr.
Smith has continuously engaged in practice to the present time with the
exception of eleven months spent in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. In 1889
he was called upon to mourn the loss of his second wife, who died in Ne-
vada on the 20th of February of that year, leaving three small children.
Roy W'., Aha and Olga. On the ist of July, 1890. he married Mrs.
Amanda S. Philp, of Rock Island, Illinois, a sister of his second wife, and
they have two children, Ella and Donald W. The Doctor's eldest daughter.
Etta Maude, wlio was born in Moline. Illinois. February 22, 1880. is now
Mrs. J. .K. Weaver, of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Roy Wells, born in Elberon.
Iowa, December 13, 1883, is a graduate of the Nevada public schools. He
is now married and at the present writing is studying medicine in Drake
University at Des Moines. Alta, born in Nevada. July 13, 1885, is at home.
Olga, born in Nevada, February 3, 1888, is engaged in teaching school.
Both she and her sister Alta are graduates of the high school and pursued
a four years' course in Leander Clark College of Toledo, Iowa, being grad-
uated therefrom in June, 19a). with the Bachelor of Science degree. Both
now have state certificates. Ella Smith, the youngest daughter, born in
Nevada, November 14, 1891, was graduated from the high school in 191 1.
Donald W., born in Nevada, May 2-/. 1899. is attending the home school.
Throughout tlie period of his residence in Nevada Dr. Smith has con-
tinuously engaged in practice and his ability has won him wide recognition.
That his work has gained him more than local distinction is indicated bv
the fact that his alma mater in 1908 conferred upon him the Master of
Arts degree. For many years a liberal practice has been accorded him and
he is today the loved family physician in many Nevada households, where
his cheery presence inspires confidence. He has done post-graduate work
in the Chicago Post Graduate Medical School and Hospital and in the Chi-
cago Polyclinic Medical School and Hospital, and at all times he kecjis in
close touch with the advancement of the profession through wide reading
and research. Moreover, he is known in business circles as one of the or-
ganizers and stockholders of the People's Savings Bank of Nevada, of
which he is now vice president, and he likewise aided in organizing the
Nevada Gas Company and the Story County Inrlcpcnflcnt Telciihone Com-
pany, in each of which he is a director.
Dr. Smith holds membership in the Methodist Episcopal church and
also with the Masons, the Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias. In
his political views he is a republican but has never .sought nor desired public
office and has no ambition in that direction. He has served, however. ,1
school director and the cause of education finds in him a warm friend, lie
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 413
belongs to the Iowa Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution and
in strictly professional lines is connected with the Story County Medical
Society, the District Medical Society, the Iowa State Medical Society and
the American Medical Association. He thus keeps in touch with the ad-
vanced thought of the profession and is continuously promoting his knowl-
edge through reading and investigation. Anything that tends to bring to
man the key to the complex mystery which we call life is of interest to him
and he performs all professional service with a sense of conscientious
obligation and with close conformity to a high standard of professional
ethics so that he enjoys in large measure the confidence and high regard of
his brethren of the medical fraternitv.
AMI JEFFERSON PEDDICORD.
One of the prosperous farmers and extensive land owners of Story
county is Ami Jefferson Peddicord, who was born in La Salle county,
Illinois, on the 27th of January, i860. He is a son of Edward Smith
Peddicord, a native of \'irginia, who at the age of four and one-half years
walked from that state to Licking county, Ohio. He remained there until
a young man and then went to La Salle county, Illinois, where he lived up
to the time of his death. He was a successful man, accumulating, by means
of his thrift and discretion, one thousand acres of land. He was a man of
fine principles and strict integrity, his word being as good as his bond. He
married Elizabeth Johnson, a native of Licking county, Ohio, whose parents
were Virginians and pioneers of Ohio. Nine children were born of this
union, eight of whom lived to maturity and four of these still survive, our
subject being the eighth in order of birth. Mr. and Mrs. Peddicord were
members of the Baptist church and he always voted the democratic ticket.
A. J. Peddicord's early years were spent very similarly to those of the
majority of boys who are reared in the rural districts. He acquired his
early education in the district schools of La Salle county, Illinois, and at
the usual age put aside his text-books and assisted his father in the culti-
vation of the farm. After reaching the age of twenty-two years he hired
out by the month for three years, at the end of which time he was married.
Subsequent to his marriage he located upon a farm belonging to his wife,
and the next year he bought forty acres but after farming this for a time
he moved south of Pontiac, Illinois. Subsequently he sold his place there
and engaged in the tile business, which vocation he followed for two years.
He then returned to the place of his birth in La Salle county and conducted
the home farm. Later he removed to Story county, Iowa, locating on
section 14, Richland township. He still continues to reside there and now
owns one-half of the section. His is one of the valuable farms of the
district. It is well stocked, contains a good farm house and other improve-
414 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
inciils, all of which are kcj)! in the best of repair, and the well tilled liekls
each year yield abundant harvests. In addition to his homestead Mr. Peddi-
cord owns one hundred and sixty acres in McCook county, South Dakota.
and one-half section in Texas, making the aggregate of his realty holdings
eight hundred acres.
i\Ir. I'cddicord was united in marriage to Miss Maggie Mc^^Iichael, a
daughter of James McMichael, a Scotchman and pioneer of Illinois. Four
children were born of this marriage, who are as follows: James A., who
died at the age of four years; Roy; Margaret; and Isabelle.
Ever since age conferred upon him the right of sulirage Mr. Peddicord
has cast his vote for the democratic party. He has never been particularly
active in politics, however, not aspiring to i)ublic honors, but has, owing
to his warm interest in educational matters, served on the school board.
He is known as one of the substantial citizens of the county, his early en-
deavors and industry having been rewarded by a gratifying success, the
achievement of which has never caused any one to question his methods or
integrity.
THOMAS J. LOUGHRAN.
By natural talents ami education Thomas J. Loughran, of .\mes. was
adapted for a mercantile career and he early became identified with the
drug business, in which he has attained a gratifying measure of success.
He was bom at Des Moines, Iowa, April 30, 1869, and removed in 1885
to Ames with his parents, Edmund and Sarah A. Loughran, both of whom
are now residents of that city. The father was born in County Armagh,
Ireland. June 30. 1832, and came to the United States when fifteen years
of age. After sjjending a few months in Hampshire county, Virginia, now
West X'irginia. he went to Wheeling and engaged in the machinery busi-
ness until 1855. He then went to New York city and accepted a position
with Cox, Richardson & Boynton, stove manufacturers of Westchester
county, New York. In 1857 he came to Des Moines, Iowa, where he en-
gaged in the manufacturing business. On the 2d of January. 1864. in re-
sponse to a call for troops to assist in bringing the rebellion to an end, he
enlisted in the First Iowa Battery and partici])ated in the battles of .At-
lanta and Resaca and in other important engagements. On the 5th of July,
1865. he was honorably discharged and mustered out at Davenport, Iowa,
after wliicli he reentered the manufacturing business. In 1874 he pur-
chased one Innidred and sixty acres of land in Jasj^er cnimty, Iowa, which
he cultivated for ten years, and then came to .\mes. buying the farm im-
])Iement business of Shields & Cook, of which he was at the bead for
eighteen years, lie has lived retired since 1902.
On the Cith of February. 1854. Edmund Loughran was marrie-I to Miss
Sarah A. Brver, and nine children were born of this union, namely: John
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 415
B., now living at Scott, Kansas; Sarah, who married \V. H. Wintersteen
and Hves at Hartford, South Dakota; Edmund James, of Madison county,
Iowa; one who died in infancy; Stephen L., a record of whom appears
elsewhere in this work; Thomas J., the subject of this review; Jennie E.,
the wife of F. M. Coulter, of Ames; William B., who died at the age of
thirty-six years; and Alary B., now living at Los Angeles, California. Air.
Loughran and his wife are members of the First United Presbyterian
church of Des Moines, while politically he gives his support to the repub-
lican party. He is a member of Ellsworth Post. No. 30, G. A. R., of
Ames, and is one of the highly honored citizens of this city.
Thomas J. Loughran received his education in the public schools of
Ames and Des Moines and pursued the pharmaceutical course at Highland
Park College of Des Moines. He has been connected with the drug busi-
ness in Ames since 1886 and is now a member of the firm of Loughran &
Bauer, one of the leading drug iirnis in the city. By close and conscien-
tious attention to his vocation he has built up an enviable reputation as
one of the substantial and representative men of the community.
On the 2d of February, 1895, Mr. Loughran was united in marriage at
Shannon, Illinois, to Aliss Kathryn Sherwood, and two children have
blessed this union, Ella Georganna and Harold Sherwood.
Politically Air. Loughran supports the candidates and principles of the
republican party, and his religious views are indicated by membership in
the United Presbyterian church. He became a member of the First church
at Des Aloines in 1892 while attending college. A gentleman of pleasing
address and attractive personality, he possesses business energy and judg-
ment that have materially assisted him in the accomplishment of a nol)le
ambition. He and his wife have a wide acquaintance and are held in high
regard by a large circle of friends wherever they are known.
JAMES E. HULL.
The name of James E. Hull is well known to cattlemen and farmers in
this section of the state as he has been exhibiting his stock at the local fairs
for more than ten years. He is the son of James E. and Julia L. (Addis)
Hull and was born in tlie capital city of this state on the 20th of December,
1865. His father was a native of the Empire state and his mother of Indi-
ana, but they were married in Des Aloines, Iowa, on the 15th of Alay, i860,
his mother having come to Iowa with her parents, who were among the
early settlers of Des Aloines. Air. Hull, who was a lawyer and a civil
engineer, went there with a government surveying party and later opened
an office and began the practice of law. He served one term as city clerk,
having been elected on the democratic ticket, and later ran for mayor on
the same ticket but the election was carried by a large republican plurality.
41G HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
He was an able counselor and his skill in tlie handling of intricate legal
])robleins, together with his fine personal qualities, brought him to the fore
and at the time of his death in 1870, at the age of forty-three years, he was
considered one of the prominent citizens of Des Moines. He held mem-
bership in the Masonic fraternity. After her husband's death Mrs. Hull
became the wife of the Hon. W. K. Wood, then a member of the state
legislature, with whom she lived until she too passed away.
At the time of his father's death James E. Hull was only a child and was
reared to manhood by his maternal grandmother. Mrs. Abraham Boys,
which was her name by her second marriage. He was educated in the
public schools of Des Moines, graduating from the high school with the
class of 1882, being sixteen years of age and having the distinction of being
the youngest student, at that time, ever to have graduated from that school.
He decided that the printer's trade had more attractions for him than any
other and after serving the usual apprenticeship he followed that vocation
for twelve years, during which time he worked in almost every state in the
Union. Being temperate in his habits he was able to save sufficient out of
his salary to enable him, after working for a few weeks or months, to go
elsewhere, and while such a metliod is not advisable if one wishes to accu-
mulate wealth, he lias found that the knowledge thus gleaned is such as can-
not be obtained in any educational institution, while the experience has
proven of inestimable value. He worked for almost a year at one time on
the Nevada democratic jjajjcr. The Watchnian, which has since gone out of
existence. While in Livingstone, Montana, he formed a partnership with a
banker by the name of Stebbins, who later became a state senator, in the
conduct of a local paper. Mr. Stebbins. not wishing his name to be in any
wav connected with the venture, was always a silent partner. Mr. Hull
having the entire charge and management and being supposedly the owner
of the paper. He placed the business on a solid foundation and was making
money when he developed lead poison and was forced to give up the trade
entirely.
Returning to Iowa Mr. Hull located in Story county where he engaged
in farming as a renter, and after two years he began the breeding of Poland
China hogs, which venture proving most lucrative he bought one hundred
and twenty acres of land on section 21, Indian Creek township, where he
continues to reside. He had been breeding registered hogs for live years
when he moved to his present location but it was not until the following
year that he began raising thoroughbred registered shorthorn cattle. He
has been most successful in both of these lines and has achieved quite a
reputation as a stockman in this section of the state as he has been ex-
hibiting at the various county fairs for years and has taken more fir.st
premiums than any other one exhibitor.
Mr. Hull was united in marriage in 1893 to Miss Mary M. Boster. a
daughter of Stei)hen T. and Sarah (Ingraham) Boster. of Nevada, who
came to Story county from Wapello county, Iowa, in 1878. They are both
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 417
natives of tJiis state, the father having been born in Lee county and the
mother in Wapello county. Air. Boster has now passed away but his wife
is still living and makes her home in Indian Creek township with one of
her daughters. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Hull;
Alarie, I\Iarion and Leslie.
They attend the Methodist Episcopal church, where the parents hold
membership and of which Air. Hull is one of the trustees. Although he
has never taken an active interest in politics he goes to the polls on election
day and casts his vote for the republican candidates, for he feels that the
basic principles of that party are best adapted to the requirements of the
people. Both Mr. and Mrs. Hull are highly esteemed and popular in the
community where they live and he is one of the substantial farmers and
cattlemen of the locality.
ELLSWORTH DOWXIXG.
Ellsworth Downing, who is the owner of a well conducted farm of
two hundred acres in Collins township and is recognized as one of the
substantial citizens of Story county, was born in Hancock county, Ohio,
October 8, 1864. He is a son of George and Lavina (Van Buskirk)
Downing, the former of whom was born in Pike county, Ohio. February
II, 1819. Airs. Downing was also a native of the Buckeye state and was
born January i, 1831. The father successfully engaged in farming in Ohio,
but believing that more favorable opportunities were to be found in the
w^est, he made a trip of inspection to Story county, Iowa, and traded his
Ohio farm for a place of two hundred acres in Collins township. Return-
ing to Ohio, he came west with his family in 1872, driving across the
country with two covered wagons. He resided on a farm in Collins town-
ship until his children were all grown and married, subsequently taking
up his home with the subject of this review, with whom he continued to
live for ten years. He passed away September 6, 1904, in the eighty-sixth
year of his age. His wife died in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1870. Mr. Downing
was a stanch advocate of the republican party and was quite prominent as
a political speaker in Story county, also filling various public offices in his
township. He served as justice of the peace in Ohio and also in Iowa and
was a man of considerable influence wherever he was known. He was not
identified with any religious body but was a valued member of the Ma-
sonic order.
At eight years of age Ellsworth Downing came to Story county with
his father, growing up under the influences of the home that prepared him
well for the struggle of life. He was educated in the district schools and
at the age of eighteen years, while assisting his father upon the home farm,
also engaged modestly, as opportunity permitted, in farming on his own
418 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
account. At twenty-six years of age he was married and located upon the
farm where he now lives. This place comprises forty acres but he also
owns one hundred and sixty acres of the old homestead, thus being the
possessor of some of the most desirable properties in the township. He
makes a specialty of cattle feeding, in which he has been very successful.
On the 25th of March. 1890, Mr. Downing was united in marriage to
jMiss Laura Brown, a daughter of Levi Brown, who came to Story county
from Fulton county, Illinois, about 1864 and settled in Collins township.
He passed away in 1903 after a long and honorable career. Five children
have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Downing: Crescy E., a graduate of the
Collins high school and now a popular district school teacher; Ethel G.,
who is attending high school ; lea G.. also a student in the high school ;
George L., who is attending the district school ; and Esther B., at home.
Air. Downing is a strong friend of education and as an active, progres-
sive member of the community is always ready to assist in any worthy
movement aiming to promote the general welfare. He has from his boy-
hood been industrious and enterprising and now enjoys the results of his
self-denial in earlier years. He gives his allegiance to the republican party
and the confidence of his neighbors in his judgment is indicated by the
fact that for ten 3'ears past he has served as township assessor. Frater-
nally he is identified with Crescent Camp No. 2358, M. W. A. Mrs. Down-
ing and her daughters are valued members of the L'nited Brethren church.
They are well known socially and have the warm regard of a large circle
of friends.
D.WIKL B. LEWIS.
Two years ago Daniel B. Lewis was made cashier and business man-
ager of the Farmers Savings Bank of Huxley. It was his first practical
experience in the field of business but he was well prepared for the re-
sponsibility and lias performed his duties in such a way as to meet the
hearty approval of directors and officers of the institution. He was born
in Union township, Story county, December 22, 1884, son of Erasmus and
Ane (Bryne) Lewis, both natives of Norway. They came to the United
States after reaching manhood and womanhood and were married in Wis-
consin, locating in Union township, Story county, Iowa, in 1864. Mr.
Lewis became highly successful as a farmer and acquired extensive land
holdings but has disposed of all of his property except the old home farm
of two hundred acres and is now living retired. Politically he has been con-
nected with the republican party and although his attention was mainly
given to his private aflfairs, he served for a number of years as township
trustee and also in other offices. Me and his wife are consistent members
of the Lutheran chiucli.
DAMKL I!. LEWIS
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 421
Daniel B. Lewis was reared in a peaceful home and acciuired his early
education in the district schools, later attending the Cambridge high school,
from which he was graduated in 1905. After teaching school for several
terms he took a course in the Capital City Commercial College at Des
Moines, graduating with the class of 1908 and showing a proficiency in his
examinations that gave bright promise as to his future. Immediately after
leaving the commercial college he was appointed cashier of the Farmers
Savings Bank of Huxley, and has since served with great acceptance in
that position. He is a member of the Lutheran church of Cambridge and
is quite prominently identified with social circles in this region. From
the beginning of his active career he has shown an adaptability to his
chosen calling, which is a brilliant prophecy of a life of usefulness and
honor that cannot fail to reflect credit upon himself and those with whom
he is associated.
ANDREW A. OLSON.
Andrew A. Olson, a member of one of the well known families of
Roland, was born in Howard township, Story county, on the i6th of Sep-
tember, 1863, a son of Abel and Jorena Olson. The father was born in
Norway and on coming to the United States located in Chicago, where he
followed the life of a sailor on Lake Michigan, serving for seven years
as first mate of a vessel. In 1854 he came to Story county, Iowa, and,
buying forty acres of land, engaged in farming. He later sold that tract
and bought eighty acres, which he soon disposed of, and then purchased
another eighty on section 16, Howard township, where he continued to
live up to the time of his death. He was a persevering and industrious
man and had accumulated six hundred and eighty acres of land in Story
county at the time of his demise. He was for many years identified with
the business interests of Roland, being one of the first men to engage in
general merchandising there. In connection with Jona Duey, Paul Thomp-
son and John Evenson, he conducted what was called the Granger store,
but later withdrew and embarked in the general merchandise business on
his own account, with which he was connected at the time of his death.
He was a member of the republican party and always took an active in-
terest in all local political issues. He was justice of the peace for twenty
years, which fact alone is assurance of his capable as well as faithful
discharge of the duties of the office. He was also one of the first assessors
of Howard township and was for many years regarded as the political
leader in that township. He was one of the organizers of the Lutheran
church of Roland, contributing liberally toward the founding and main-
tenance of the same. He married Jorena Olson, and unto them were born
four children, all of whom are still living: Ole, who resides in Minnesota;
422 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
George, living in Howard township, Story county; Carl, a resident of Cali-
fornia; and Andrew A. The father passed away in 1898, having resided
for forty-four years in Story county, upon which he left tiie impress of
his strong personality and worthy character. The mother still lives in
Roland.
.Andrew .A. Olson attended the district schools of Story county and on
laying aside his school books he worked for his father until he was twenty
years of age. at which time he started out in life for himself. lie liad de-
cided to follow agriculture, feeling that it offered better and more certain
opportunities than almost any other line. In addition to his farming he
has been a feeder of stock, in which he has met with reasonable success.
Mr. Olson has been married twice, his first wife being Miss Berth
Barka, and they became the parents of five children : Ella, who married
I. M. Cole; Josie; .Abel; Orville ; and .\rthur. The mother of these chil-
dren passed away in 1901. For his second wife Mr. Olson chose Miss
Julia Johnson and unto them has been born one child. \'iola.
The family worslii]) in the Lntlicran church, with which denomination
the parents are identified by niembcrshi]). Since reaching his majorit}'
Mr. Olson has voted the republican ticket and he takes an active interest
in politics.
lOH.X A. SCOTT.
Near the top in the list of progressive and enterprising farmers of
Story county stands the name of John A. Scott, who since 1894 has been
a resident of Indian Creek township. He was born in Jones county, this
state, on the 17th of December. 1869, being the son of Prior and Jane
(Ferguson) Scott. His father was a native of Indiana but came to Iowa
with his parents when a child, the grandfather. Prior Scott, Sr.. being
among the first settlers in Cedar county. Our subject's mother was from
Pennsylvania and came to Iowa with her brother, Claude Ferguson, also
locating in Cedar county, where she met and married Prior Scott. Im-
mediately after their marriage the young couple removed to Jones county,
locating on one hundred and si.xty acres of land which had been given them
by Mr. Scott's father. This continued to be their home up to the time of
Mr. Scott's death in 1871. Later Mrs. Scott married -Asa Lindsey and re-
turned to Cedar county, where she still resides.
John .A. Scott made his home with his mother and stepfather until he
was fourteen years of age, when he left the parental roof and went to
the western part of the state, thus starting out in life for himself when
still but a boy. For nine years he worked as a farm hand until, by means
of hard work and thrift, he had acquired a small capital.
In 1892 he married Miss Kate Smith, of Story county, a daugiitcr of
William \'. Smitii, of Maxwell. Shortly after marriage they removed to
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 423
Jones county, where they settled on a farm, a portion of which had come
to Mr. Scott in the settlement of his father's estate. They lived there for
two years, then sold out and bought their present homestead in Indian
Creek township. Story county. The present farm contains ninety-seven
acres of well tilled and valuable land and is one of the best equipped and
best kept farms in the township. Air. Scott has always been a strong ad-
vocate of diversified farming. He keeps a good grade of cattle and hogs,
and by means of study and the pursuit of scientific methods and care and
discretion in the breeding and raising of stock has been one of the most
successful men of the community.
Two daughters and one son have been bom to Mr. and Mrs. Scott, all
of whom are still at home: Sylvia Pearl, Emmett Raymond and Lulu
Belle. The two former are attending the high school at Maxwell. The
family attend the Evangelical church, of which the parents are members,
Mr. Scott also serving as a trustee of the church.
The policy of the democratic party has always appealed to Mr. Scott
as being the one best adapted to protect the interests of the general public
and he therefore casts his ballot for its candidates. He has never taken a
prominent or active part in politics, but at the same time he is now and
has been for some time a member of the school board. He is secretary
and treasurer of the Iowa Center Telephone Company and is also a di-
rector of the Fai-mers Grain Company of Maxwell. He has ever since his
residence here been prominent in all public matters pertaining to the in-
terest of the agricultural community and is known as one of the pros-
perous men of the township where he lives, being highly esteemed and
respected by all who know him.
JUDGE CHAUCER G. LEE.
In a history relating to the substantial and progressive citizens of Story
county adequate mention should be made of members of the bar, prominent
among whom are the gentlemen who occupy the judicial positions. For
four years past Chaucer G. Lee has filled the office of district judge and
in that time has greatly enhanced the reputation he had previously acquired
as a practicing attorney.
Born on a farm in Kellogg township, Jasper county, Iowa, August 7,
i86q, he is the son of James and Sarah (Whitcomb) Lee, the former of
whom was born in Massachusetts and the latter in Indiana. At an early
day the father settled in Jasper county, Iowa, and became one of its suc-
cessful farmers.
Chaucer G. Lee received his early education in the district schools,
later attending Hazel Dell Academy at Newton, Iowa, from which he was
graduated in 1891. Matriculating in the Iowa State College at Ames he
424 HISTORY OF STORY COl'XTY
pursued his studies further and was graduated in 1894 with a degree of
B. S. He next entered the law department of Drake University at Des
Moines, and in 1895. having completed the regular law course, received the
degree of LL. B. While acquiring his education he taught at various times
in the country schools, showing an ability that gave bright promise as to
his future. On February 2, 1895. he located at Ames and at once entered
upon his life vocation, attracting almost from the very start a lucrative
clientage. He served for eight years as city attorney at Ames and [jrnved
a strong advocate before a jury and a speaker who readily gained the ear
of the court, winning many cases in which he was pitted against some of
the ablest lawyers in this ])art of the state. Since the ist of January. 1907.
he has occupied the bench of the district court, displaying a fairness and
impartiality which invites even the most humble to look with confidence
for unbiased justice.
On the 23d of Sei)tember, 1896. Mr. Lee was united in marriage to
Miss Emma McCarthy, a daughter of Daniel and Mary McCarthy, of
Ames. One daughter. Norma, has blessed this union. Judge Lee gives his
adherence to the republican party, with which he has been identified ever
since reaching manhood. Socially he and his estimable wife are prominent
in the community. He is regarded as a man of the strictest integrity and
of unfiinching devotion to what he believes to be his dutv. A deep student,
he is seldom at a loss in determining as regards any difficult point of law.
Throughout his entire career he has demonstrated that he possesses a well
balanced mind, and he is eminently worthy of the respect and confidence
in which he is held by all who know him. Just entering upon the most
important period of life, being now forty-two years of age and possessing
every requisite for a long and useful career, there is everj' reason to predict
for him still greater successes in years to come than any he has yet known.
OLI\'ER HILL.
To the industrious farmer who adds intelligence to his chosen vocation
success is assured. Oliver Hill was born in Norway, September 29, 184S.
a son of Toris and .Mariha (Berhaw) llill, who emigrated to the United
States in 1849, landing at New York on July 2d of that year. They came
west, locating in Kendall county, Illinois, where they resided until 187^1,
;it which time they came to Story county and took up their residence with
their son, the subject of this .sketch. Here they both died, the father fm
December 7, 1887, and the mother March 18. 1902.
Oliver Hill spent his childhood at home, acquiring his education in the
public schools in his district. School facilities were at that time very
limited, however, and he secured his book knowledge at intervals between
working on the farm. Notwithstanding this fact, being a very industriou-
HISTORY Of STORY COUNTY 425
youth and ambitious as well, he managed to overcome all difficulties and
when twenty years old began teaching school, which line of work he fol-
lowed for ten years in connection with farming. During this time he taught
for nineteen terms. In the spring of 1875 he came to Story county, Iowa,
making his residence with Ole Berhaw, whom he had known when living in
Kendall county, Illinois. This was the farm on which he now resides and
which he later purchased. In the meantime he went to Polk county and
spent the winter there, returning the following spring to the Berhaw farm,
where he has since resided.
]\Ir. Hill was married to Mrs. Clara Thorson. nee Seymour, of Kendall
county, Illinois. Her parents were Sebert and Isabella (Thompson) Sey-
mour, who came to America from Norway. To Mr. and Mrs. Hill four
children have been born, as follows: Albert T., residing at Cambridge;
Martha H., who is attending Drake University at Des Moines; John, who
is a student in the State Agricultural College at Ames; and one child,
deceased. Mr. Hill is a prohibitionist in politics and both he and his wife
are faithful members of the Lutheran church.
JAMES W. DUNAHOO.
One of the well known farms of Story county is the Dunahoo home-
stead, which is located on sections 2 and 3, Indian Creek township, and
upon which the third generation of this family is now living. James W.
Dunahoo, the present head of the family, was born in Marion county,
Indiana, on the 3d of April, 1841. His parents, William M. and Sarah
(Sheets) Dunahoo, were both natives of Virginia, where they were reared
and married. A few years later they migrated to Ohio and the next year
they removed to Marion county, Indiana, where they made their home for
several years. In August, 1854, they came west, locating in Story county,
Iowa, on the farm which is now owned by their grandson, our subject's
son. William Dunahoo entered one hundred and sixty acres of land from
the government, upon which he continued to make his home imtil the time
of his death in 1874. His wife survived him for thirty years and passed
away in 1904.
James W. Dunahoo remained a member of his father's household until
he had attained manhood, attending the district school, assisting with the
work of the farm and enjoying such diversions as fell to the lot of the
young people of that day. He acquired the rudiments of his education in
an old log schoolhouse with puncheon floors and slab benches and lighted
and ventilated by means of pieces cut out of the logs which formed the
walls. In those early days he drove oxen to market to Des Moines and Iowa
City and sold wheat in Cedar Rapids for forty cents per bushel.
426 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
At the age of twenty-two years Mr. Dunahoo began farming on his
own account on land which he rented, but at the end of two years by un-
remitting toil, tireless energy and thrift he was able to buy twenty-four
acres of the present home farm and thus become a landowner. He kept
adding to his holdings from time to time until he had acquired two hundred
and twenty-five acres of Story county's most valuable land. Mr. Dunahoo
did not remove to this place until 1868 but since that time he has lived here
continuously.
In 1865 he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Ellen Webb. Her
parents were \'irginians by birth but came to Iowa from Indiana, settling
first in Polk county, where they lived for two years, and then locating in
Story county. Two children were born of this marriage: Elmer Clayton,
who is a farmer of Indian Creek township, and Major R., who is also a
farmer and lives on the old Dunahoo homestead, which he now owns. The
family circle was broken when Mrs. Dunahoo passed away in 1901.
They always attend the Methodist church, of which the parents were
members and of which Mr. Dunahoo is still a communicant. Although
he has never taken a [Particularly active part in politics, never aspiring to
|)ublic office or political honors of any kind, he is at the polls at every
election and casts his vote for the republican candidates. The name of
Dunahoo has always been highly respected in .Story county, each representa-
tive of that family being well worthy of the esteem of his fellow citizens,
which has always been freely accorded.
JOSEni TI. TWEDT.
One of the successful agriculturists in Howard township, Story county,
is Josepli H. Twedt, who was born in the locality where he now resides.
He is a son of Hans J. and Julia (.island ) Twedt, both natives of Nor-
way, who emigrated to the United States in 1855 and coming directly to
Iowa located in Story county, where they remained the rest of their lives.
The father, who possessed all the unwearied perseverance and tireless
energy which characterizes the Norse races, by his close application and
careful expenditures accumulated considerable property before his demise
at an advanced age. Unto him and his wife were born twelve children,
eight of whom sur\'ive and are as follows: Abel H., Joseph H., Samuel
H., Andrew IT., Hcnrj-. Jane, Hattie and Julia.
The early years of Joseph H. Twedt were as unvaried in their routine
of school, work and play as are those of the majority of young people
who are reared in the more sparsely settled districts. .At the usual age lie
laid aside his school books to assume the heavier responsibilities of life.
choosing for his life work farming, the vocation for which he had been
trained from childhood and fell he was best adapted. He remained at
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 427
home until he had attained his majority, when he began working for him-
self. He was first employed as a farm hand by the month but later en-
gaged in farming on the shares. Economy and industry brought him the
usual reward and in 1890 he had acquired sufficient capital to enable him
to buy one hundred and twenty acres of land on section 14, Howard town-
ship. Through diligence and capable management he has added to his
holdings at various times until the present aggregate of his real estate is
two hundred and forty acres. His farm contains good improvements, a
nice grade of stock and the fields are given the careful supervision which
results in abundant harvests. In addition to his realty holdings Mr. Twedt
is a stockholder and director of the Farmers Savings Bank of Roland.
He established a home of his own when he married Miss Bertha Pier-
son, and they have become the parents of si.x children, five of whom are
living: Rose, Howard. Otis, Joseph, Ruth and Mamie, deceased. Ever
since age conferred upon him the full rights of citizenship Mr. Twedt has
cast his ballot for the candidates of the republican party, believing that its
policy of protection is essential to the best development of the country.
He is now occupying the office of trustee in Howard township. Almost
his entire life has been spent in that township, where he was born, and
greater tribute can be paid to the character of no man than that the com-
rades of his boyhood are the friends of his manhood.
E. ROLAND ROBISON.
One of the most successful farmers and cattle-raisers of Story county
is E. Roland Robison, who is one of the substantial and enterprising citi-
zens of Indian Creek township. Born in that township, July 9, 1862, he is
the son of Alexander and Nancy ( Greer ) Robison, both of whom were
natives of western Pennsylvania. The father was born in Mifllin county,
Pennsylvania, May 15, 1822, and died at Nevada, Iowa, January 23, 1907,
at the age of eighty-four years. He was a representative of one of the
early families of this country, his great-grandfather having settled in or
near Wilmington, Delaware. His youth was spent in Pennsylvania and
he was married in Mercer county, that state, in March, 1856, to Miss
Nancy Greer, who survives him.
E. Roland Robison spent his youth at home, attending the public school
when not working on the farm. There he remained until attaining his ma-
jority, when he married and purchased eighty acres of his present farm,
on wliich he took up his residence. During the succeeding twenty-two
years he added to his property from time to time until at present he owns
four hundred and thirteen acres of the most valuable land in Story county.
When he was married he had two or three hundred dollars with which to
make payment on his first eighty acres, and this was unimjirovcd lancl.
428 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
Now he has one of the best farms in this section of the county, containing
all of the most modern improvements. He has made a specialty of cattle
feeding, in which he has met with unusual success.
The marriage of Mr. Robison took place April 4, 1888, when he was
united to Miss .Mattie W'hitakcr, a daughter of Samuel and Harriett (Mil-
ler) Whitaker, of Indian Creek township. Her mother was a native of
Indiana, while her father was horn in Washington county, Pennsylvania.
The latter came to Story county in 1855 and is now a resident of Maxwell.
To Mr. and Mrs. Robison have been born four children, two of whom
survive, namely: Edith, and Clay A. The daughter is now a teacher in
the district schools. She is a graduate of the Maxwell high school and at-
tended the Iowa State Normal school at Cedar Falls.
In politics Mr. Robison is a republican and he has served for several
years as a member of the school hoard. He is affiliated with Maxwell
Lodge, No. 465, I. O. O. F. Mrs. Robison, prior to her marriage, was a
teacher in the public schools and is a highly accomplished woman. She
is a member of the United Evangelical church.
OLEY NELSON.
Among the well established citizens of Story county there is none who
deserves more honorable mention than Oley Nelson, who is now living re-
tired at Slater. He is a native of Rock county, Wisconsin, born August
II. 1845, and son of Nels and Aase (Chrestensdotter) Olson Evensrue,
both of whom were natives of Rollag, Numedal, Norway. They were mar-
ried in Norway and came to America in 1843, locating at Jefferson Prairie
in Rock county, Wisconsin. The father entered forty acres of govern-
ment land and in 1845 declared his intention of becoming a citizen of the
United States. In the spring of 1848 he removed to Primrose, Dane
county, Wisconsin, and entered one hundred and sixty acres of land, which
he proceeded to improve. On August 10, 1861, he enlisted in Company
H, known as the Sugar River Rifles, of the Eighth Wisconsin \'olunteer
Infantry, the regiment gaining a wide reputation as the Live Eagle Regi-
ment. The regiment left Camp Randall at Madison, Wisconsin, about
October i, 1861, and went to St. Louis, from there going to Iron Moun-
tain, Missouri, where they drove out the rebels and secured the ore for the
use of the government. They then went to Raleigh and from that place
to St. Louis and thence down the Mississippi river, assisting in the capture
of Island No. 10. The regiment was then ordered to Corinth and after
the capture of that city to N'icksburg. On the way from Corinth to X'icks-
burg the father of our subject received a sixty day furlough to enable him
to vi.sit his home as his health had been seriously impaired. lie went
aboard a boat at Memphis and came as far north as Keokuk, Iowa, when
(11. KV XKI.SdX
jt
HISTORY Of STORY COUXTY 43I
he was taken off the boat in an unconscious conchtion and conveyed to the
hospital, where he died August 4, 1862.
After the father's death the mother continued to live on tlic farm and
the son took charge of the work. However, in the spring of 1864, desir-
ing to take the place of his father in defense of the Union, he enlisted in
Company D, Fortieth Wisconsin Infantry, and was present at the last cap-
ture of Memphis later in the same year. The regiment was sent to Holly
Springs and Jackson. :Mississippi. and at the latter place Mr. Nelson was
taken sick with fever and jaundice and in the fall of the year was sent
home on a furlough. He was in a very serious condition on his arrival at
Madison and was practically incapacitated for any service for several
months. He received his honorable discharge from the army in December
1864.
Mr. Xelson continued with his mother in Wisconsin until 1867. In the
winter of 1864-5 tlie home farm was sold under foreclosure on account of
a security debt, and they then moved to eighty acres in which the mother
had an equity. In the spring of 1867 she disposed of this equity, receiv-
ing two hundred and twenty-five dollars. They also possessed a span of
colts and three head of young heifers, and having secured a prairie schooner
started westward, having decided to cast their lot in Iowa. Upon reaching
Skunk river opposite Cambridge, Story county, Iowa, they found the river
bottom flooded, making it extremely dangerous to attempt to cross with a
wagon. Accordingly :\Ir. Nelson left his mother upon the bank and hired
a pilot for five dollars to assist him in crossing with the wagon and animals.
After reaching the opposite shore he waded back, the water reaching above
his waist, and took his mother on his shoulders, she being a small woman
weighing only about ninety pounds, and carried her across in safety. The
effort practically exhausted him, but after resting a while they resumed
their journey and crossed the county line to Polk county, subsequently lo-
cating on eighty acres of raw prairie. As their resources were extremely
limited Mr. Nelson found it necessary to sell the horses and wagon and pur-
chase a yoke of oxen, this transaction replenishing the treasury by about
one hundred dollars. He hauled lumber and brick from Polk City to build
a house and they lived comfortably during the following winter. In the
fall of 1867 the grasshoppers ate up everything green in that section and
it was indeed a gloomy outlook, especially as payments were due on the
farm and other obligations had been incurred.
In the spring of 1869 Mr. Nelson sold the oxen and wagon and went to
Des Moines, where he secured a position the first day of S. A. Robertson
to haul brick from his yard at a salary of thirty dollars per month and
board. In the fall of the same year he received his first introduction to
the mercantile business in the house of Luce & Mahanna, his salary being
fifteen dollars per month, twelve dollars of which he was obliged to pay for
board. Subsequently he conducted a farmers boarding house and in 1874
removed to Sheldahl, where he erected the first store building in the town,
432 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
continuing as a merchant and grain buyer until he retired on account of
the encroacliments of age. He was organizer of the Farmers Savings Bank
at Slater and was its first president, being at the present time a member of
the board of directors.
In December. i86g, Mr. Nelson was united in marriage to Miss Lizzie
Ersland, of Cambridge, and by this union ten children were born, namely :
George E., Elsie C, Carrie H.. Anna G., Bell O., Mattie A., Elemer O.,
and Beatrice D., and Kuttie A, and Anios K,. who died in infancy. The
first five are now married.
Politically Mr. Nelson has ever since arriving at the age of manhood
given his support to the republican party and has served in a number of
responsible positions. He was postmaster at Sheldahl from 1874 to 1880
and school treasurer from 1874 to 1885. He was elected to the twenty-first
and twenty-second general assembly, serving in 1882 and 1884 with dis-
tinguished ability, being especially active in behalf of better drainage laws,
better school laws and free text-books. He was a delegate to the national
republican convention which nominated James G. Blaine for president and
has been employed many times by the state republican committee as a cam-
paign speaker, having appeared in more than fifteen counties in Iowa and
in four counties in Minnesota. Religiously, he is identified with the United
Lutheran church, in which he has for many years been a prominent worker.
In 1904 he was elected president of the board of directors of St. Olof Col-
lege and since 1890 has been a member of the board of the United Nor-
wegian church of America, being now vice president of that body.
Mr. Nelson possessed limited opportunities of school education in his
early life. His mother, however, was a woman of fine education and was
his principal teacher until he came into contact with the world. His tastes
were originally for mechanical pursuits but conditions led him into mercan-
tile life, in which he attained deserved success. As a public speaker he has
been highly efficient and his services have been in urgent demand. Today
he is recognized as a leader among Norwegians of Iowa, due to his high
character and marked business ability, and he is greatly esteemed wherever
he is known.
DICK R. SPIEKER.
Dick R. Spieker, cashier of the Peoples Savings Bank of Nevada and
recognized as one of the most progressive young business men of the city,
was born in Grundy county, Iowa, September 17. 1880. He is a son of
John and Hattie (Ilusinga) Spieker, both natives of Germany. The father
came to this country with his parents in infancy, the family locating in
Hardin county, Iowa, in 1852. Our subject's Grandfather Spieker did not
possess a liberal amount of this world's goods when he established his
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 433
home in the country of his adoption, but he was industrious, frugal and
persevering and succeeded even beyond his expectations. As an indication
of his character it may be stated that he walked from his farm, a distance
o! one hundred miles, to Des Moines to file his land entry papers. The
father of our subject was reared on the home farm and has devoted his
entire life to agriculture and stock-raising. He is the owner of five hundred
acres of land, which he acquired through his industry and good manage-
ment, and is recognized as one of the substantial and influential citizens
of the state. He is a member of the board of directors of the Farmers
Savings Bank of Aplington, Butler county, Iowa. Politically he gives his
support to the republican party but has never sought public office, his at-
tention being mainly devoted to his private interests. The mother of our
subject was born in Germany in 1850 and came to the United States with
her parents about 1865.
There were eight children in the family of Mr. and Airs. John Spieker,
namely: Matilda, now the wife of Charles Wilke, a contractor and cement
block and tile manufacturer of Aplington; one who died in infancy: Dick
R., our subject: Claude, further mention of whom is made below; and
Tena, Anna, Lena and John, all at home. Claude Spieker, who was born
in Grundy county, Iowa, in 1882, received his education in the district
schools, after which he attended the State Normal School, the Capital City
Commercial College and Drake University, taking the commercial law
course in the latter. Since leaving the university he has been engaged in
the banking business at Des Moines, Aplington and Nevada, now being
associated with his brother as assistant cashier of the Peoples Savings Bank.
Dick R. Spieker grew to manhood upon the home farm and early gave
indications that his tastes lay in other directions than those of agricultural
pursuits. He became a student of the State Normal School at seventeen
years of age and after teaching for two years took a course in the Capital
City Commercial College, graduating in 1903. Seeking practical experience
in a well established banking institution, he became connected with
the Des Moines National Bank, where he continued for three years.
In 1905 he assisted in organizing the Farmers Savings Bank at Aplington
and became its cashier, holding that position for three years and building
up the business until the institution became recognized as one of the reliable
concerns of the county. In May, 1909, he came to Nevada as cashier of
the Peoples Savings Bank, which office he now holds. He and his brother
are large stockholders in this bank and it has shown a remarkable growth
under their management.
In March, 1909, Mr. .Spieker was united in marriage to Miss Myrtle A.
Graham, who was born in Des Moines, in 18S4, a daughter of David and
Augusta (Sinn) Graham, the father being a well known contractor. Unto
Mr. and Mrs. Spieker one child, Roy, was born Ajjril 5, 1910.
Mr. Spieker is an active member of the American Bankers Association
and also of the Iowa Bankers Association and keeps thoroughly informed
434 HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY
on all imijortant movements in fniancial affairs. He gives his support to
the republican party and his religious belief is indicated by membership in
the Baptist church. Mrs. Spieker is a member of the Christian churcii.
Since taking up his residence in Xevada Mr. Spieker has erected a beau-
tiful modern residence, which is a credit to his taste and an ornament to
the city. Although living here comparatively a short time, he has made
many friends and has shown a capability as a business man and financier
wliii-h gives brilliant promise for his future.
FRED E. IIAXSEX.
It is doubtful if a more promising advocate at the bar is to be found in
Story county than l-"red E. Hansen, whose name introduces this review.
lie was born at Chicago, Xovember 14, 1873, and comes of Danish and
Norwegian ancestry. The father, Thomas P. Hansen, was born in Denmark
and after reaching manhood became a seaman. He established his home
in the L'nited States and for a number of years was identified with inland
water traffic, being at the time of his death, in 1894, captain of the W. O.
Goodman, a merchantman plying on the Great Lakes. He was energetic
and thoroughly competent in his calling and attained a high reputation a-
a conscientious and trustworthy officer. He was a member of the Masonic-
order and jjolitically gave his adherence to the rejjublican party. He mar-
ried Xathalia Werfel, who was a native of Chicago and departed this life
some years before the death of her husband. Her mother was a Xorwegian
and her father a Dane. Ilcr religion was that of the Baptist church. She
was the mother of five children, all of whom are deceased except the sub-
ject of this review. The father was again married after the death of hi-
first wife, but there were no children by that union.
Fred E. Hansen came to Iowa at eleven years of age and took uj) hi-
home with Henry Thomiison, a friend of the family, living near Roland.
Ikre he grew to manhood and continued for si.xteen years. He received
his preliminary education in the jMiblic schools graduating from the Roland
high school in 1893. After spending two years as a student in the State
.Agricultural College at Ames, he began teaching in which he cnntinncil for
five years, serving for two years of that time as principal of the Roland
high school. His ability as a teacher received general recognition in the
county and in 1900 he was elected county superintendent of schools, beinu
reelected in 1902. I'pnn retiring from this position he went upon the ro.id
as a traveling salesman, in the meantime preparing for admission to the
bar by taking the prescribed course of the Sprague Correspondence School
of Eaw. He also studied law in the office of Fitchpatrick & McCall, <if
Nevada, and in the fall of 1906 was duly admitted to the bar. He has been
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 435
in active practice at Nevada since January, 1907, meeting with success due
to thorough preparation and conscientious effort.
On the 6th of June, igoo, Air. Hansen was united in marriage to Miss
Anna R. Hegland, who was horn at Roland, Iowa, July 19, 1883, a daughter
of O. O. and Engehorg (Johnson) Hegland. The father is one of the old
and influential farmers of the county and is now living retired. Two chil-
dren have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Hansen: Floyd, who died at the age
of six years; and Alargaret, who was bom January 2, 1910.
Mr. Hansen has made a favorable .start in a profession that calls for the
best energy and talent, and there is no doubt that he will attain an enviable
position at the bar. He is a constant student and fluent speaker and the
possessor of well tested business capacity which cannot fail to assist him
very materially in his career. He is a member of the Story County Bar
Association and politically is identified with the republican party. He has
not sought official responsibility but is now serving most acceptably as a
member of the board of trustees of the public library. Fraternally he is
identified with the Masonic order, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows
and the Knights of Pythias and has attained in the latter organization the
title of chancellor commander. He and his wife are active workers in the
Memorial Lutheran church, of which Mr. Hansen is a deacon. Having
made the right start in life, he is winning success and has many warm per-
sonal friends in central Iowa.
JESSE R. WOOD.
Few citizens of Indian Creek township have exercised a stronger force
or more potent influence on the life of the community than did Jesse R.
Wood during the period of his residence in this locality. Ohio claimed
him as a native son, his birth occurring in Allen county, that state, on the
igth of August, 1832. His parents, John G. and Anna (Kennison) Wood,
were both natives of A'irg-jnia, wdience they removed to Ohio in early life.
In the '30s they took up their abode in Indiana and there the mother passed
away. Later the father was again married, after which he removed to
Story county, Iowa, locating on a farm near Iowa Center, which remained
his home throughout his remaining days.
Leaving his native state in early childhood, Jesse R. Wood accompanied
his parents on their removal to Indiana, and there he was reared to man-
hood. As a pupil in the common schools he received his elementary train-
ing and later matriculated in the Central University at Pella, Iowa,
prompted by a desire for a thorough education. It was decreed, however,
that he should not complete his university course, for at the outbreak of
the Civil war he put aside all personal interests, actuated by a strong spirit
of patriotism, and. offering his aid in defense of the Union cause, en-
430 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
listed, on tlic lytli of ^lay, 1861, as a private in Company E, Tliird Iowa
Infantry, under Captain John Scott. The regiment, commanded by Colonel
N. G. Williams, was assigned to the First Brigade, Fourth Division, Sev-
enteenth Corps of the Army of the Tennessee, as a member of which Mr.
Wood participated in several important engagements, including the battles
of Blue Mills, Missouri, and Shiloh or Pittsburg Landing. He was on
detached service for a time, and in .\pril, i8(>2. at Shiloh, while en route
to Corinth, he was honorably discharged because of disability, at which
time he was mustered out. He suffered greatly from e.xposure during his
term of service, being little more than a skeleton when he reached home,
and it required several months to recuperate.
As soon as his returning strength would jjermit Mr. Wood took up
teaching as a means of support, and for many years his time was thus
occupied during the winter months, while in the summer seasons he was
engaged in farming, becoming successful in both branches. His identifi-
cation with the educational interests of his part of the state was a source
of benefit to the communities in which he labored, for he proved himself
a most competent and able instructor, imparting clearly and readily to
others the knowledge that he had acquired. After withdrawing from the
profession of teaching he served for many years as member of the school
board, the cause of education ever finding in him a stalwart champion. He
became interested in various other phases of community life and was one
of the best known and most public-spirited citizens of his part of Story
county. Possessing those qualities which always win respect and confi-
dence, he was chosen as executor of many estates and his aid was in-
variably sought in matters requiring business ability and integrity. In-
deed there were few residents of Indian Creek township whose counsel
and advice were more largely .sought than that of Jesse R. Wood, and no
trust reposed in him was ever abused. That he was endowed with keen
business ability is indicated by the fact that he was numbered among the
substantial and prosperous fanners of his district, being the owner at the
time of his death of a valuable farm of two hundred acres besides si.xtecn
acres of good timber land. The farm is yet in the possession of Mrs.
Wood, although she has since disposed of the timber tract. About five
years prior to his death Mr. Wood turned the work of his farm over to
others and retired from active life, taking up his abode in Des Moines.
About two years later, however, he came lo Maxwell and was here re-
siding at the time of his death.
On November 20, 1862, Mr. Wood was united in marriage to Miss
Juliet Wilson, of Grant town.ship, a daughter of Alfred and .Anna (Adams)
Wilson, formerly of Licking county. Ohio, and by this marriage were born
six children, as follows: Georgiana, the widow of W. II. King, who re-
sides in Des Moines; Ida II., who wedded Rev. Wilson .Mills, a Baptist
minister of Omaha, Nebraska; Harvey A., engaged in farming in Okla-
homa; Edith, the wife of L. W. Stone, of Nevada. Iowa; Jessie E., who
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 437
married Professor C. W. Kirk, of Collins, Iowa ; and Ada L., the widow
of Roy W. Brokaw, of Des Moines.
Like his wife Air. Wood was ever a faithful and devoted church mem-
ber, his actions at all times being in harmony with his professions. At
an early day he joined the Baptist church and remained an earnest worker
therein until the disbanding of the congregation at Iowa Center, when he
united with the Christian church in Maxwell. For twelve years prior to
his demise he served as elder in the latter church, and Mrs. Wood con-
tinues an active and helpful factor in its work. Death came very unex-
pectedly to Mr. Wood on the 6th of March, 1905. He was standing on
the railroad platform in Cambridge preparing to board a train for Des
Moines when he suddenly dropped dead. Deep regret was felt at his
death, the news of which brought a sense of personal loss into the heart
of almost everyone who had known him, for with his passing Story county
lost one of her most valued and influential citizens, the measure of whose
success in life was taken not so much by the material gain which was his
as by the honor, confidence and good-will extended him by his fellowmen.
GEORGE SEVERT NELSON.
Although he has been a resident of Story county but eleven years,
George Severt Nelson is recognized as one of its leading agriculturists and
business men. He was born in Norway in 1859 and is a son of Severt
and Julia (Anderson) Nelson. After the death of the father, which oc-
curred in Norway, the mother married O. O. Oleson. The family came to
the United States in Alay, 1866, and located at Grinnell, Iowa, where they
remained for only three months, and then came to Story county. The
first five years of their residence in this county they lived on a rented
farm but during that period were able to accumulate sufficient capital to
enable them to buy eighty acres of land north of Slater in 1871. Owing to
their thrifty habits and industry they were later able to add another forty
to this. Mr. Oleson has now retired from active farming and is living- in
Roland, enjoying in the evening of his life the ease and comfort denied
him during the hard working days of his early manhood.
George Severt Nelson was only a lad of seven years when the family
located in Story county, therefore his boyhood and youth were passed here
and in the district schools he acquired his education. He remained a resi-
dent of Iowa until 1883, when he went to South Dakota and entered one
hundred and sixty acres of land. Two years later he filed on a tree claim
and in 1898 he bought another quarter section, making the aggregate of
his realty holdings in that state four hundred and eighty acres. He sold
his property in 1900 and the following year returned to Stor>' county and
louo-ht two hundred and twenty-one acres. He has since added to his
438 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
property and now has two hundred and ninety-four. In addition to his
landed interests Mr. Nelson is a stockholder in the canning factory at
Cambridge and the Charles Publishing Company, of Chicago, Illinois.
Mr. Nelson wedded Miss Carrie Tesdall and they have become the
parents of seventeen children, eight sons and nine daughters, fourteen of
whom are living. They are as follows: Gertie; Leslie Morris; Maltie;
Sivrie; Orville; Clarence; Chester, deceased; one who died in infancy;
Jessie and Bessie, twins; Benjamin; Florence; Alvin; X'erna ; Laura; Lil-
lian ; and Beulah.
Mr. Nelson is a member of the socialist party and has always taken
an active interest in jjolitics. In 1899, while a resident of South Dakota,
he represented the si.xteenth district in the state legislature and was re-
nominated ])\- the populist party for another term but was defeated. He
was also elected to the office of county assessor in Buffalo county. South
Dakota, and served as clerk of his township for ten years and two as
treasurer. During his residence in Iowa he has been the candidate of the
socialist party for the office of railway commissioner of the state, but was
defeated because of the minority of his jKirty. Wherever he has lived
Mr. Nelson has slmwii himself to be a ])ublic-spirite(l. progressive and
enterprising citizen.
JOHN NIELSEN.
Denmark has contributed thousands of her progressive sons and dauijh-
ters to America and in this country many of them have found home,
friends and fortune, now being numbered among the most honored mem-
bers of their respective communities. In this class is John Nielsen, a well
known miller and grain dealer of Slater. He was born in Denmark, June
26, 1857, a son of Niels and Margaret Madsen, both of whom spent their
entire lives in Denmark.
John Nielsen was reared under the parental roof and acquired his
early education in the common schools of his native land. At the age of
fourteen years, according to the custom of the country, he was appren-
ticed to a trade and learned the milling business, becoming verj' adept in
an industry which can be usefully applied in almost any country of the
world. In 1880, being then twenty-three years of age and ambitious to
advance as rapidly as possible in life, he emigrated to .America, coming
to Sheldahl, Iowa, where he readily found employment at his trade. About
1884 he and a i)artncr rented the mill, which they operated for a short
time. He then went to Grinnell and made an effort to rent the mill at
that place but was not able to accomplish his purpose and after spending
a few months at Sheldahl, became associated with his brother in a clothing
store at Fargo. North Dakota. Two years' experience in the dothincf busi-
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
439
ness convinced him that the trade to which he had been reared offered
more favorable inducements, and accordingly, in 1891, he once more re-
turned to Sheldahl and in company with B. C. Dueland rented the mill at
that place, which they operated for three years under the firm name of
Nielsen & Dueland. In 1894 he and his partner purchased a two-thirds
interest in the mill at Slater and began its operation, acquiring the remain-
ing interest seven months later. This mill was at the time only a feed
mill and in order to meet the growing demand of an increasing population
the firm enlarged the building and put in modern machinery, including a
complete roller-process plant, making the mill one of the leading industries
of the locality. In April, 1910, the building was destroyed by fire, the
depot and freight houses also being swept away at the same time. The
firm of Nielsen & Dueland was composed, however, of men of determina-
tion and they immediately purchased the elevator building of Oley Nelson
and fitted it out with milling machinery, so that they have since conducted
an elevator and a mill, being also extensive dealers in coal and feed. They
are now enjoying a large and increasing patronage.
In 1879 ^Ir. Nielsen, before coming to America, was united in mar-
riage to Miss Sina M. Peterson, a native of Denmark, and two children
blessed this union: Nels IM., now of Slater; and Catherine, the wife of
Fred Nelson of Missoula, Alontana.
The life record of Mr. Nielsen is a remarkable illustration of the possi-
bilities in America for men who have learned a useful trade and are pos-
sessed of business ability to make practical application of their knowledge.
He has no reason to regret making Iowa his home, as he has secured a
competency and is assured of a liberal annual income. Politically he is
allied with the prohibition party. He has not sought public office but has
ably served as member of the town council. He and his wife are con-
nected with the Methodist church, Mr. Nielsen being one of the stewards
of the local organization.
OLIVER G. TICHENOR.
Many of the successful agriculturists of Story county are native .sons,
men whose parents came here in pioneer days and broke the prairie, felled
the trees for their lojj cabins, built the roads and in .short endured all of
the hardships and privations incident to life in an unsettled district and
among these may be mentioned Oliver G. Tichenor. He was born in
Nevada township on the 7th of October. 1869, a son of Joseph and Martha
J. (McCullough) Tichenor. The father was a native of Delaware, born
on the 9th of March, 1813, and was a son of Aloses Tichenor. He went
to Indiana as a child with his parents and there he spent his boyhood and
youth, acquiring his education in the district schools. He remained in his
440 HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY
father's household until old enough to work for himself, at which time lie
left and began farming. Some time after his marriage he removed to
Bureau county, Illinois, but after one year's residence there he again started
west and in 1855 he located in Story county, Iowa. He bought one hun-
dred and sixty acres of land on section 28, Nevada township, at one dollar
and twenty-five cents per acre and there he spent the remainder of his life.
Joseph Tichenor married Miss Sarah Applegate in Indiana and they
became the parents of the following children : Nathaniel, who enlisted from
Story county and was killed in battle during the Civil war: May Elizabetli,
the widow of J. P. Robinson, of Ness City, Kansas ; Malvina, deceased,
who married J. S. Middleton ; Louisa, the widow of J. Tanner, of Stewart,
Iowa; Emma, who died in childhood. Mrs. Tichenor died before they left
Indiana and in 1855, while living in Illinois, he married Miss Martha J.
McCullough. who was born in South Carolina on the loth of March. 1830,
and unto them were born seven children : George L.. who is living on the
old homestead; Isabelle. the wife of J. W. Hayne. living in Nevada town-
ship, Story county; Eva. who died at the age of thirteen years; Carlton
W., who died at the age of twenty-six, leaving a widow and one son,
Joseph, who was the twin brother of Carlton W. and died at three years ;
Edward M.. also living on the old home farm; and Oliver G. The father
passed away on the i6th of June. 1876. He had always voted the re-
[Hiblican ticket and was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church.
The mother had passed the seventy-ninth milestone of life before she died
on the 2ist of February. 1909. All of the Tichenor children of the second
marriage were born on the old homestead and tliere tlie brothers George
and Edward, the former born on the 4th of February. 1856, and the
latter on the loth of November. 1865. have always resided. Edward
Tichenor is single but George is now a widower. He was married in 1889
to Nettie Wireman, but she died five years later, in 1894. They have three
hundred and eight acres of well improved and highly cultivated land and
engage in general farming and stock raising and feeding, in all of which
they have met with more than moderate success and are considered to be
among the most successful and substantial farmers in Nevada township.
They have always been stanch supporters of the republican party and take
an active interest in all local political issues. Edward Tichenor has held
the position of township clerk and township assessor and is the present in-
cumbent of the latter office. He is a member of the United Evangelical
church.
Oliver G. Tichenor, the youngest member of his family, was educated
in the district schools of Story county and after he laid aside his text-
books assisted on the home farm until his marriage, when he began farm-
ing for himself. He rented land for one year but at the end of that time
bought a small farm of forty acres, which he cultivated for two years, and
then rented a larger place, which he operated for four years. At the en''
of that tituc he had acquired sufficient capital to enable him to invest in
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 441
eighty acres in Richmond township, upon which he hved for ten years.
In January, 1909, he bought his present place, which consists of two hun-
dred acres on sections 12, 13 and 14, Nevada township, and engages in
general farming. He owns one of the valuable farms in that township and
keeps a good grade of stock. The improvements upon his farm are kept
in repair and the lields reward his careful supervision by an abundant har-
vest, which always commands good prices.
Mr. Tichenor was married on the 17th of March, 1891 to Miss Hattie
Whittaker, who was born in Nevada township in 1867, a daughter of
Thomas Whittaker. They hold membership in the United Evangelical As-
sociation. Ever since attaining his majority Mr. Tichenor has been identi-
fied with the republican party. He always takes an active interest in local
politics and during his residence in Richmond township served for four
years as township assessor, while he is at present filling the office of town-
ship clerk in Nevada township. He is highly regarded in the community
where he lives, is a public-spirited man and always gives his support to
every measure that will prove of public benefit. Both he and his wife
have many friends, to whom they extend the hospitality of their pleasant
home.
CHARLES G. VASEY.
Charles G. Vasey, of the firm of \'asey Brothers, dealers in lumber,
coal and agricultural implements at Collins, by his active and honorable
business life is well entitled to representation in this volume. He was born
in Peoria, Polk county, Iowa, September 17, 1873, a son of William and
Anna (Oxley) Vasey, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this volume.
Mr. Vasey acquired his early education in the district schools and
later attended the Collins high school, graduating in the first class that com-
pleted the course in that institution. He then entered the Capital City
Commercial College, from which he was graduated in 1896, securing a
practical business education, which has been of great benefit to him in his
contact with the world. He began his business career in the bank at Max-
well and later was connected with both banks at Collins. For two terms
he made a test of his talents as a school teacher but found the work un-
congenial, and being attracted to mercantile pursuits in February, 189S,
he purchased from S. A, Rush the Collins lumberyard, two years later
taking into partnership a younger brother, Arthur A. The business is
conducted under the title of Vasey Brothers, and they have secured an
extensive patronage, the concern being recognized as one of the most
successful in Story county.
In June, 1902, Mr. \'asey was tmited in marriage to Miss Grace King,
a daughter of William King, of Collins, and by this union one child, Harold
442 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
B., lias been born. Mr. X'asey is independent politically, and thus is free
from partiality in casting his ballot and is able to take a broad view of
political questions. He is actively interested in public affairs and served
three terms as town clerk, two terms as mayor of Collins, and at the
present time is a member of the school board. He previously tilled the
office of secretary of that body for several years and was a member of the
board when the handsome new school building was erected, being largely
instrumental in the inception and accomplishment of that important work.
He is identilied with Amity Lodge, No. 361, I. O. O. F., and also with
Sunbeam Lodge, No. 181. Mystic Workers of the World. He ranks as
one of the leading business men of Collins, and as he has always dealt
fairly with others, never seeking to advance his personal interest to the
injury of his fellowmen, he possesses in an eminent degree the respect and
esteem of the entire community.
JOHN R. H.\LL.
The name of John R. Hall holds a prominent place in tlic list <if the
pioneers of Story county, where he has lived for more than fifty years.
He was born in Ross county, Ohio, on the 2d of December, 1S35, his
parents being Thomas and Eliza (Rosenbarger) Hall, both natives of \'ir-
ginia, who removed to Ohio with their parents in the early days and were
there reared and married. In 1836 they went to Kosciusko county, Indiana,
where they lived until the fall of 1854, when they again started westward,
their destination being Story county, Iowa. When they were nearing the
end of their journey, which was made in wagons across the prairie, cholera
broke out in their party, and one member succumbed to the dread disease
and was buried nine miles this side of Marengo, while two more were laid
to rest in the little cemetery at Grinnell. one of them being Amos Hall,
a brother of our subject. Upon their arrival in Story county they located
on two hundred acres of land which Thomas Hall had purchased in Indian
Creek township and where they continued to live until both parents passed
away, the father at the age of sixty-nine years and the mother just after
passing the seventy-second anniversary of her birth. They were the parent^
of eight children and of the six surviving four have passed their seventieth
year, namclv : Noble Porter Hall, a resident of Maxwell. Iowa; Mary
Jane, the widow of Augustus P>erlin. of Ottawa, Kansas; John R., our sub-
ject; lames IL, also of Maxwell; William C. of Golden Prairie. Wyoming;
Thomas, of P.agley. Iowa.
The boyhood and youth of John R. Hall was very similar to that of
other farmer lads in ])ionecr days. The educational facilities afforded by
the district school jiroviiled him with the fundamental jirinciple;- of the
three "R's." an introduction to which was acquired in a log school, with
HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY 443
puncheon floor and slab benches, where the rod formed a very important
feature of the curriculum. At the usual age he laid aside his text-books
to assume the heavier responsibilities of manhood. He remained at home
until he was twenty-three years of age, when he rented land anil began
farming for himself, but by thrift, hard work and self-denial he was able
to acquire sufficient capital to purchase eighty acres on section 13, Indian
Creek township, in 1867. The laml was unimproved and after erecting
a house he located thereon and from then until 1888 this continued to be his
home. In the latter year he removed to ^laxwell, where he has ever since
lived retired, which is the reward of tireless energy and indomitable courage
in the face of the hardships and misfortunes incident to life in a new
country.
Mr. Hall responded to his country's call and went to the front during
the Civil war with Company I of the Thirteenth Iowa Volunteer Infantry,
in which he had enlisted on the 27th of October, 1864. He took part in
various skirmishes and battles, among the most important being the battle
of Xashville. Receiving his discharge on the 28th of July, 1805, he then
returned home.
On the 17th of October, 1861, Mr. Hall and Miss Sarah Dunahoo
were united in marriage. Mrs. Hall is a daughter of William Dunahoo,
one of the pioneer settlers of Story county, who came here in 1854 and
located on a farm in Indian Creek township.
Mr. and ilrs. Hall are both members of the Methodist Episcopal church.
He has always been a stanch supporter of the republican party, although
he has never sought any reward for party fealty in the form of political
honors or public office. He is known as one of the substantial citizens of
Maxwell and has always been held in high regard in the communities where
he resided because of his fine sterling qualities.
MADISON R. DUNAHOO.
Among the well known and highly successful native sons of Story
county is Madison R. Dunahoo, who was born in Indian Creek township
on the 19th of May, 1857. He is a son of John and Rachel (Ray) Duna-
hoo, the father being a \'irginian by birth and the mother a native of
Indiana. They came to Iowa in 1854, locating on the farm where their
son ;\Iadison R. was born and now lives. Eighty acres of this land was
acquired from the government and later Mr. Dunahoo bought forty more
adjoining. It was here that they reared their children and continued to
make their home during the remainder of their lives. On the 28th of
March, 1880, Mrs. Dunahoo passed away and was survived by her hus-
band for twenty-four years, his death occurring on the I2tli of November.
1904. He was an ardent advocate of the principles of the republican
444 HISTORY OF STORY COUNTY
pam- and always voted for its candidates, his fidelity- being rewarded by
' ■ to the \ • vvnship offices, all of which he most capably filled.
. lison R. was reared "ron the farm where he now lives
and which he continued to call h - a his twentj-third year, at which
time he was rr. ' ' , _ ■ ' ■.? a renter. In
1889 he went to- . ' -'J' bought eight}-
acres of land and had Uved there for four years, when, his father having
sig- f disposing of t" 're. he returned and
pu-
Mr. Dunahoo married Miss Jennie Selby, a daughter of Charles Selby,
of Nevada township, and two sons were bom to them : Lloyd C who
was drowned in the De? ?.'::r.e- Hver. verj- shortly after his gradtiation
from the Capital Cit>- ege, of Des Moines; and James
are members, and Mr. I f die trustees of the church
as
of :... . : ... _ ;......
interes: ?5ues. That he is highly estv
lar wi: -ry is a:' ". at a n ..
se— ■'. .-.-.-- 'jLstees. KU
fr:. - ^e. No. .^63.
1. O. O. r.. of Me:
at: .^^ _
ever s: - - :v to the
PRINCE A
place in a testory of the cooniy. as tr - . ;:r bravery m traies of danger
^- -■■.■■ ■■-•-- - •" ;-_^; today.
A- . '.a resi-
-n m the state of Midngan. Febmary 9. 18;,-.
.-ed to > tr to Wiscoosm. In
river at Prairie dn Ghioi. tbe on! f crossing to tbe ade be-
-■- ferrr-J- "' " "-t bcr^c LCJier £' " ' ' '-
HISTORY OF STORY COUXTY 445
modate ihe entire outfit. During the trip the cattle were led by an old
bell cow named Rose. She had learned to follow the wagons closely from
the time thej' were started in the morning until the party went into camp
at night. Two of the wagons were loaded on the ferrj'-boat which started
to cross the river, the subject of this review, then a child, and a sister who
was still younger having been left behind to herd the cattle. However,
the bell cow Rose interfered with carefully laid plans and as the boat
moved away in the water she started after it, followed by the rest of the
herd. The mother stood in the stern of the ferry-boat and, seeing that it
was impossible to turn the cattle back, called to them eagerly and they
bravely responded, but were carried down by the current a quarter of a
mile below the ferry- landing. Upon reaching the opposite shore Mrs.
Kitchel hurried down the river and through her encouragement the cattle
landed safely and she returned to the wharf with Rose and her other
charges close behind. Gathering the possessions of the family together,
Mr. Kitchel made his way to the old Winnebago Indian mission lands,
where he lived for three years, then locating in Winneshiek county-, Iowa.
There he entered government land and built a log cabin, in which the
family lived for about five years. In 1856 ilr, Kitchel moved to Olmsted
count}-, Minnesota, where he again took up his w-ork as a farmer. The
mother departed this life while on a visit to a brother, and the father sub-
sequently made his home with his children.
Prince Albert Kitchel acquired his education in a log schoolhouse with
?lab benches, puncheon floor and windows covered with greased paper.
He continued with his parents until June 26, 1861, when he enlisted at
Fort Snelling. Minnesota, in Company- B, Second Minnesota Volunteer
Infantry-. He serv^ed for four and one-half years and was an active par-
ticipant in many of the greatest battles and movements of the w-ar, the
Second Minnesota being in almost continuous activity during the great
rebellion. He ivas under Sherman during the celebrated march to the sea
and was present at the surrender of General Johnston at Raleigli, North
Carolina, discharging bis duty at all times in such a way as to meet the
heart}- approval of the ofiScers of his company. On July 20, 1865, he was
honorably discharged and mustered out of service at Fort Snelling, and
in 1867 came to Jasper county, Iowa, purchasing sixty acres of raw prairie
land, upon which he built a board cabon that was later superseded by a
comfortable modem residence. As his resources increased he purchased
ir - '- hecaioe the owner of a highly impro\-ed farm of one hun-
^'-.. - . _ ; ...-five acres which he disposed of in 1910. 
