Prowers County, History of Colorado, BIOS: DOWNING, Isaac C. (published 1918)
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"History of Colorado", edited by Wilbur Fisk Stone, published by The S. J. 
Clarke Publishing Co. (1918)  Vol. II

p. 424




	 ISAAC C. DOWNING.


	One of the most important offices in the newer divisions of the 
west is that of sheriff and in that position Isaac C. Downing is now 
ably and capably serving in Prowers county. Since he has taken office 
the lawless element has greatly subsided because there is not an hour 
of the day or night which is not devoted to his duties in maintaining 
order in his section. The protector of law-abiding citizens, he is a 
terror to those who infringe upon the laws of human society and is 
relentless and tearless in pursuing criminals. He was born in Winona, 
Minnesota, August 1, 1865, his parents being Benjamin F. and Malinda 
(Baldwin) Downing, of Ohio. The father has followed farming throughout 
his life and success has attended his labors. He Is highly respected 
and esteemed in his community, of which he is considered one of the 
valued citizens. To him and his wife were born thirteen children, of 
whom Isaac C. is the youngest.

	He was educated in the rural schools near his father's farm in 
Minnesota and there continued until he was nineteen years of age, ably 
assisting in farm labors. In 1884 he made his way to Colorado and 
engaged in riding the range. He subsequently gave his attention to the 
draying business and also served as marshal of Lamar, his home city, 
and as deputy sheriff, continuing in the latter position for about 
twenty years. His long experience was recognized in his election to the 
office of sheriff in 1914 and so well did he discharge his duties that 
in 1916 he was reelected and is today a candidate, standing on his 
record.

	On December 25, 1889, Mr. Downing was united in marriage to Miss 
Minnie E. Cochrane and to them have been born the following children: 
Roderick L., who is a civil engineer, having graduated from the State 
University, and is now in the service of the government; Wayne G., who 
is serving in the United States army; and Lois V., at home.

	Mr. Downing is an active republican in his political 
affiliations, his word carrying great weight in the local councils of 
his party, which he has served as delegate to county and state 
conventions. He also gives much time and thought to war work, serving 
as a member of the Council of Defense, being on the committee of 
safety, and he is chairman of the local draft board. Fraternally he is 
connected with the Masonic order, in which he belongs to the blue 
lodge, and also to the chapter, council and commandery. Moreover, he is 
connected with the Knights of Pythias and the Woodmen of the World. His 
religious faith is that of the Methodist church and he ever takes part 
in movements to uplift humanity, to improve moral conditions and raise 
intellectual standards.