Biographies of Taylor Twp., Benton County, Iowa - 1878 From "History of Benton County, 1878" Contributed by Kate Pool, dtp2@psu.edu ----------------------------------------------------------------------- USGENWEB NOTICE: In keeping with the USGenWeb policy of providing free information on the Internet, this data may be used by non-commercial entities, as long as this message remains on all copied material. These electronic pages cannot be reproduced in any format for profit or other gain. Copying of the files within by non-commercial individuals and libraries is encouraged. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Nevin, J.R., farmer. Nichols, John D., attorney at law; born in Canada West July 22, 1834, lived there twenty-two years, and learned carriage making; came to Iowa and studied law with Traer & Gilchrist, of Vinton, and was admitted to the bar in 1872; has practiced his profession here since then. He represents this District in the Iowa State Senate, being eleted in 1876. Married miss Sarah Stevens, from Canada, in 1854; she died in 1870, leaving four sons-Malcolm E., Clarence, Clifford G. and Frank Benn. Married Miss P.J. Breman, from Canada, in Iowa Falls, March, 1872. Nickelson, David, night police. Nixon, Alex., blacksmith. Nixon, James, blacksmith. Noble, Isband, farmer, Sec. 4; born in Ontario, Canada, April 16, 1827; lived there twenty-three years and came to Benton Co., Iowa, in November 1850; he and his brother lived in a cabin on the river bottom during the Winter; in the Spring, he went to Minnesota. In 1852, he returned to Canada; married Miss Hannah P. Geddes, sister of Gen. James L. Geddes, of Iowa College, Oct. 27, 1852; she was born in Edinburgh, Scotland; they came to this county in November, 1852, and located where they now live, and entered land from the government; they were among the earliest settlers; only one man in this neighborhood that was here when they came. Has held township and school offices. It used to take him three and four days with ox team to go to mill at Cedar Rapids and return, leaving his wife alone; she was as brave as he; the Indians and wolves did not frighten her; when they came, they had but little, and now own over 600 acres of land; they have five children-James A., Isband, Libbie, Andrew and Charles G. Noble, Isband, Jr., farmer, Sec. 4. Noble, James S., farmer, Sec. 4. Odell, M.G., carpenter. Oppelt, S.C., plasterer. Oppelt, W.H., farmer, Sec. 6. Osgood, S.R., carpenter. Owens, Garrett, farmer, Sec. 33. Palmer, W.S., clerk. Palmer, H.N., drugs, books and stationery; born in Richland Co., Ohio, Oct. 27, 1843; lived in Ohio until 12 years of age, when he came to Vinton in 1854; has lived here twenty-four years; he has been engaged in the drug, book and stationery business since 1866. Married Miss Nellie Cleveland from Michigan, In January, 1872; they have two children-Paul Correll and Florence May. Palmer, T.S., druggist; born in Richland Co., Ohio, July 17, 1825; lived there until 21 years of age, then went South, to Tennessee and St. Louis, and came to Burlington, Iowa, in April 1848; in the Spring of 1849, he went overland to California; returned in 1851 to Ohio, nd came to Vinton in April 1852, being one of the earliest setllers, there being no one in business here now that was here when he came; he engaged in the drug business in 1855. Has held town and school offices. Married Miss Nancy Hale, from Richland co., Ohio, in May, 1853; they have three children-Walter S., Etta and Charles S.; they have lost one daughter. Palmer, W.S., clerk, drug store. Palmerter, J.C., farmer, Sec.7. Parker, M.W., nursery, Sec. 30. Payne, J.H., blacksmith. Peacock, E.F., dentist, born in Troy, N.Y., March 11, 1845; lived in that State eighteen years; then lived in Pennsylvania for five years; removed to Rockford, Ill., and studied dentistry; came to vinton in 1871 and has been engaged in the practice of his profession here since, except several years in Wisconsin and elsewhere. Married Miss J. M. Shoonmaker from Illinois in 1872; they have two children-Sarah L. and Frank H. Pearce, Isaac, retired; born in Rhode Island June 24, 1815; he moved with his parents to Washington, Ohio, and lived there, and in Columbus and Lancaster; learned the trade of woolen manufacturer; he came from Ohio on horseback to Vinton, Benton Co., being about three weeks on the way and arrived here in June, 1851, and was one of the early settlers here; only several here now that were here when he came; he selected some land and went to Dubuque and entered it; still owns 160 acres of land adjoing the city limits, which he entered; also, owns other town property. He was among the first to enlist in 1861 in the three-months service in the 17th Reg. Ohio Inf., Co. B; enlisted for three years in the same regiment; after serving three years, enlisted in the 6th Reg. Hancock's Corps and served one year; was in battles of Mill Spring, Murfreesboro, Chickamauga, Mission Ridge, Resaca and Atlanta. Perrine, Lew, clerk. Pettitt, H.L., farmer, Sec. 10. Pettit, William A., farmer Sec. 10. Phelps, Stephen, pastor First Presbyterian Church, Vinton; born in Lewiston, Fulton Co., Ill., Feb. 6, 1839; he attended Jefferson College Pa., three years, and entered the Western Theolgical Seminary; he was licensed to preach in the Summer of 1861, and supplied the pulpit at Bedford, Pa., during seminary vacation; after graduation, he refused several calls from churches in the East, and accepted the call from the Presbyterian Church in Sioux City; after being there two and a half years, he was called to the Presbyterian Church at Waterloo, where he labored until obliged to resign his charge on account of his health; he was called to his present pastorate in October, 1871, and has the largest church in Iowa. He is Chaplain of the Iowa State Guards; has been moderator of the Synod, and has represented the Presbytery three times in the general assembly. Married Miss Amelia McComb, from Lewiston, Fulton Co., Ill., June 20, 1862; they have four children-Albert M., Myron, Ella and Clara. His father, Myron Phelphs, was one of the earliest settlers in Illionis, emigrating there before the Black Hawk war; he has been a successful merchant for fifty-four years. Pierce, Isaac, money lender. Pierce, Nehemiah R., farmer; born in Barnstable Co., Mass., Nov. 11, 1823; lived in Massachusetts until 14 years of age; lived in Maine five years, then was engaged in the cotton mills in Massachusetts nine years. Married Miss Anna M. Allen, from Maine, Dec. 7, 1852; they came to Iowa in 1854 and lived in Allamakee Co. fourteen years; they came to Benton Co., to Big Grove, May 1, 1868, and engaged in farming. Mr. Pierce had but little when he started, and now owns over 1200 acres of land in this county; has held office of Assessor and other town and school offices; they have four children-Thomas A., Wendell P., Abbie A. and Ruth Ella. Mrs. Martha Pierce, mother of Mr. Pierce, lives with him, and is 86 years of age. His father died Nov. 27, 1873. Pike, James C., grain dealer; born in Albany, N.Y., March 4, 1852, and lived there thirteen years, and came to Whiteside Co., Ill.; lived there until 1869, when he came to Benton Co. and engaged in farming; in 1873, he engaged in his present business-buying and shipping grain. Married Miss Ella M. Young, daughter of W.H. Young, of Vinton, Dec. 28, 1867; they have one son-Charles R. Pitts, Emery, farmer, Sec. 11. Place, S.M., laborer. Porter, C.E., hardware. Portenfield, William, Rev., Sec. 18; born in city of Glasgow, Scotland, in the year 1820, and was educated for the ministry in the Free Presbyterian Church; emigrated from Scotland in 1850 and lived in Canada ten years, and came to Benton Co. in 1860; preaches some yet, but on account of nervous derangement, engaged in the nursery business; he and his sons have done a large business, selling as high as $10,000 of nursery stock in one year; his sons having engaged in business he is closing out his nursery. Married Isabella Stewart, from Montreal; they have four children-John O., merchant at Reinbeck; David A., merchant at Traer; Simon, merchant at Traer; George, at home; lost one son-William S. Postle, John, laborer. Powell, Joseph, farmer, Sec. 22. Pray, C.U., clerk. Preston, Case, farmer, Sec. 32; born in Franklin Co., Ohio, Oct. 16, 1852; lived in Ohio eighteen years, then came to Benton Co., in 1870 and engaged in farming; he owns farm of sixty acres. His parents reside in Vinton, the county seat of Benton Co. Preston, C.S., lawyer. Preston, L.C. Preston, L.A., farmer. Pyne, John F., boots, shoes and harness; born in town of Ovid, Seneca Co., N.Y., Feb. 23, 1830; moved to Cazenovia when 10 years old; he was the oldest of the family; when he was 18 years old he bought a house and lot there, paid for it, and gave the deed to his mother; came to Vinton, Iowa, in June 1855, and when he got there was $2.50 cents worse off than nothing; he engaged in the boot and shoe and dry goods trade; was book-keeper and cashier in Traer's bank four years, and was engaged in the saddlery and harness business; published the Benton County Democrat during the campaign of 1856, and again in the campaign between Lincoln and Douglas; in 1868, published the Democratic Standard; he had four brothers in the army, but he "staid at home and stood the draft like a man." Married Ruth A. Stringham, from Broome Co., N.Y., in 1854; she died in 1863, leaving two sons-Edward A. and Joseph S., and lost two sons. Married Lovina F. Burruss, from Indiana, in 1865; they have one daughter Rosa May; lost one daughter. Quinn, R.H., grocer. Quinn, Louis, retired; born in Hamilton Co., Ohio, Feb. 2, 1832; lived in Ohio until 11 years of age, then came with his parents and four brothers, by wagon, to Iowa; located at Muscatine in 1843, while the State was a territroy; lived in Muscatine twelve years; went to Washington, in Washingon Co., in 1855, and engaged in mercantile business for ten years, and was in business at Boonesboro two years; came to Vinton in 1867, and engaged in the grocery, provision and crockery trade, and did a large business; sold out his stock and business on account of his health, in November, 1877; he owns the store and property and other city property; is also stockholder and Director in the Farmers' Loan and Trust Company's Bank, and also loans money. Is a member of the School Board. Married Mary L. Harris, from this State, in 1861; they have five children-Charlie D., Kate, Birdie, George and Jessie. Ralyea, F.R., stationery and news. Ralyea, L., proprietor of the Ralyea House; born in Broome Co., N.Y., June 1, 1829; lived in New York State twenty-five years; was engaged in the dairy business and railroading; came to Davenport and then to Vinton in 1854; there was not much improvement here; only a few here now that were here then; has been engaged in buying and shipping grain, produce and game; in 1862, he kept the Tremont House, and was in the livery business some years; in 1874, he built the Ralyea House, and it is the largest and most complete hotel in Benton Co. Married Martha L. Roberts, from Binghampton, Broome Co., N.Y., August, 1858; they have one son-Frank R., and lost one son-Bertie, in infancy. Ralston, James, harmess maker. Ravenscroft, J.E., grocer. Ray, F.G., agricultural implements. Ray, Guy, money loaner. Read, Leonard, stone mason. Read, Richard, stone mason. Reeder, A.S., teamster. Reed, G.W., farmer, Sec. 33. Redfield, Stephen D., boot and shoe maker; born in Claremont, N.H., Oct. 11, 1806; lived there about twenty-two years, and removed to Cazenovia, N.Y.; engaged in the boot and shoe business; lived there over thirty years; came to Vinton, Iowa, in 1856, and engaged in the boot and shoe trade. Was in the army during the war; enlisted as private in Co. A, 37th Iowa V.I., and was promoted to Lieutenant; was in service three years. Has been a member of the M.E. Church fifty-five years. Married Miss Rosanna Clark, from Connecticut, in May, 1834; they have two daughters-Sarah and Rosa, and have lost one son-Wilber Fisk. Reynolds, W.B., Sr., Justice of the Peace. Reynolds, W.B., Jr., agl. implements. Rich & Murphy, editors of the Vinton Eagle. Richey, James, tailor. Rickel, I.H., pritner. Ridge, G.W., carpenter. Ridge, Thomas, carpenter. Rinker, John, laborer. Ryder, John, butter and eggs. Robinson, Edwin, stock dealer. Robinson, Stimson. Rock, A.H., hardware. Rock, G.T., hardware. Rose, A., grocer. Rose, A.P., janitor of schools. Rose, C.B., grocer. Ross, G.F., clerk. Rowlands, J.W. Rumbaugh, F.M., boot and shoe dealer. Rush, Oscar, laborer. Russell, Benjamin, farmer. Ryder, John, butter, eggs, hides and furs; born in Sandusky County, Ohio, August 22, 1831; lived in Ohio thirty-nine years; was extensively engaged in mercantile business, the sales amounting to $160,000 in one year; also had two elevators, bought and shipped grain largely; came to Vinton, Iowa, in 1870, and engaged in buying and shipping butter, eggs and country produce, and is doing very large business, the most extensive of any house in this State in the same line, except one, shipping to the markets of New York, Boston, Philadelphia and San Francisco. Married Miss Mary J. Tyler, from Fremont, Ohio, Nov. 14, 1854. Sanders, E.J., Street commissioner. Sanders, John W., far., Sec. 27. Sanders, Leonard, farmer, Sec. 25. Sanders, H.R., teamster. Sandison, Alex., fine stock. Sawyers, J.S., in Stewart College. Schall, William. Scott, S.L., jeweler. Scott, Sam., furniture dealer. Seaman, L., house mover. Seben, S.S., farmer, Sec. 25. Seburn, M.H., laborer. Secrest, J.R., blacksmith. Seed, Robert. Seyfarth, Edward, blacksmith. Sexton, George. Sexton, G.B., cooper. Shafer, L.H. Shaffer, John, carpenter. Shaffer, S.A., restaurant. Shaffer, J.M., restaurant. Shain, John, District Judge. Shaw, G.E., laborer. Shaw, James. Sheets, John D., farmer, Sec. 14. Sherry, Jesse M., retired farmer; born in Ross Co., Ohio, Dec. 4, 1814; lived in Ohio ten years; removed to Tippecanoe Co., Ind., in 1824; was one of the early settlers there; used to cart grain from there to Chicago; was in Chicago in 1831 and was there in 1832 when Gen. Scott landed there; only five families there then; he was teamster in Col. Russell's Regiment during the Black Hawk War, and got a land warrant; came by wagon to Benton Co., and was seventeen days on the way, and arrived June 17, 1855; located in Canton Tp., and engaged in farming; has carted wheat to Iowa City and sold it for 33 cents per bushel; owns 245 acres land, and has held town and school offices. His first wife was Louisa Markle, from Ohio; she died in 1843; they had two children-Elizabeth is the only one living. Married Mary Parker, from Decatur Co., Ind., in the Fall of 1862; they had one son, who died when four months old. Shields, J.C., well digger. Shields, J.H. Shifferdker, George, clerk. Shley, John. Shockley, M.O., painter. Shockley, P., painter. Shortess, S.L., agricultural implements. Singleton, John, farmer. Skiffington, John, retired farmer. Slason, J.C., fence builder. Stattery, John, retired farmer. Smalley, E.L., painter. Smith, G.W., County Surveyor. Smith, H.B., carpenter. Smith, M.D., market. Smith, J.W., auctioneer. Smock, J.W., Recorder. Smith, P.S., Sheriff of Benton Co.; born in Montgomery Co., N.Y., Oct. 2, 1830; lived in that State for twenty-five years; came to Benton Co., Iowa in 1855, and has lived here twenty-three years, except two years spent in Linn Co.; he has been engaged in farming and in dealing stock; has held the office of Assessor, town of Eden, eleven years, Town clerk nine years and Justice of the Peace eleven years; was elected Sheriff of Benton Co. in 1873, and re-elected in 1875, and again re-elected in 1877; is serving his third term. Married Gertrude Richards, from New York State, in 1851; she died in Aug., 1871. Married Elizabeth DeWault, daughter of Jonathan DeWault, of this county, in Nov., 1875. Smith, Worth, patent right. Smock, A.H., farmer, Sec. 30. Smock, H.L., farmer, Sec. 32. Smock, James W., County Recorder; born in Johnson Co., Ind., Feb. 19, 1840; lived there twenty-one years, and then went in the army. Enlisted in Co. F, 19th Ind. V.I., old Sol Meredith being the first Colonel of the regiment; was in the battle of Fredericksburg, second battle of Bull Run, South mountain, Antietam, Gettysburg and the Wilderness, and in many other fights and skirmishes; was wounded at the siege of Petersburg, June 18, 1864; was in the service three years. Came to Benton County in 1865; was elected Recorder of this county in the Fall of 1872, and re-elected in 1874, and again re-elected in 1876; also holds the office of City Treasurer. Married Miss Hennie Shotwell, in Vinton, Nov. 26, 1874. Sonders, J.B., gardener. Spaulding, E., farmer, Sec. 25. Spalding, W.D., laborer. Spencer, Edwin B., retired farmer, Sec. 11; born in Orange Co., Vt., Jan 10, 1812; lived there until 21 years of age, and then went to the city of New York for two years; he traveled with a show for two years, and came to Iowa in the Fall of 1839; came to Linn Co. in the Spring of 1840; came to Benton Co. in the Fall of 1845; and was one of the earliest settlers; only several in this county that were here then; there were plenty of Indians; only one log house in Cedar Rapids, and not a road laid out in the county; Vinton was not thought of. He held the office of County Commissioner when Benton Co. was first organized; was elected Justice of the Peace, and has held town and school offices. He went to California in 1850, and returned in 1852. Married Martha David, fromm Illinois, in March, 1844. Owns over 500 acres of land. Spencer, J.A., professor of music. Springer, Henry, restaurant. Spurr, J.F., jailer. Squires, Robert, in College for the Blind. Stanton, H., retired. Starks, L.H., cabinet maker. Steadman, E.D., Deputy Co. Treasurer. Steadman, E.M., Deputy U.S. Marshall. Steadman, E.P., clerk. Steares, Jacob, money loaner. Steece, Arch. Steece, G.M. Stephens, James, farmer, Sec. 35; born in Clarion Co., Penn., Jan. 2, 1847; when 5 years of age, came with his parents to Benton Co., April 27, 1852, and was one of the earliest settlers; there are not many here now that were here when he came; there were plenty of Indians; he has lived here twenty-six years. He has held the office of Assessor, and road offices. Married Miss Althea Dickenson, from New York State, Sept. 5, 1874; they have two children-Gertie and Edgar. Henry and Margaret Stephens, the parents of James Stephens, were born in Pennsylvaia, and came to Benton Co. in April, 1852; they were among the earliest settlers here; after living in this county about a quarter of a century, they died , leaving three children-James, Joseph H. and Mollie J; left an estate of 160 acres land. They lost two children-Harrison was in the 28th I.V.I., Co. D; was wounded at the battle of Cedar Creek; died from his wounds. Stern, M., dry goods and clothing. Steves, J.D., stock scales. Stevens, James, far., Sec. 35. Sterens, R.E. Stewart, J.G., retired farmer. Stick, Daniel, of the firm of D. Stick & Son, dealers in groceries and crockery; born in Adams Co., Penn., May 22, 1831; moved to Stark Co., Ohio, when 6 years of age; lived there twenty years, and learned the trade of merchant tailor; came to Linn Co., Iowa, in the Fall of 1857; lived there two years, and came to this county in the Fall of 1859, and engaged in farming; came to Vinton in 1864, and engaged in mercantile business, and has contined here since. Has held office in City Council, one of the first elected. Married Miss Margaret A. Marietta, from Ohio, June 5, 1851; they have two children-David L. and Etta R.; they lost three children-two sons and one daughter. Stick, D.L., grocer. Stickney, John, lumber dealer. Stickley, P.J. Stickney, Sherman, firm of Stickney and Bros., dealers in lumber and building material; born in the town of Jay, Essex Co., N.Y., April 19, 1838; the day he was 20 years old, he started to Iowa, and came to Vinton in April , 1858; engaged in teaching school, and was in the County Treasurer and Recorder's office; he went to Chicago, and was in the insurance business two years; returned to Vinton and engaged in the lumber business in 1868, and continued ever since. Married Miss Kate C. Boynton; born in the town of Jay, Essex Co., N.Y., July 19, 1871; they have one son-Eugene L. Stickney, Walter, feed store. Stickney, W.W., farmer, Sec. 32. St. John, L.W., grocer. Stock, J.M., laborer. Stocking, G.H., farmer. Stevenson, W.R., retired. Stone, Horatio G., carpenter and builder; born in Essex Co., N.Y., March 30, 1830; came to Scott Co. with his parents when 12 years of age, 1842; learned trade of carpenter and joiner; lived in Scott Co. twenty-two years, engaged in building in Davenport for many years; came to this county in 1865, and since then has lived here; has lived in this State thiry-six years. Married Susan Carlton from New York State; they have one daughter Lillie; lost one son in infancy. Stone, Ostrum, retired farmer. Stookey, David J., stock dealer, buying and shipping stock; born in Ross Co., Ohio, Dec. 22, 1824; lived in Ohio nineteen years; removed to Indiana; came to Iowa in 1851; afterward engaged in milling and mercantile business at Moscow; entered 400 acres of land in Cedar Co.; was in stock business at Wilton Junction; came to Vinton in Oct., 1867; engaged in stock business. Was in the army; enlisted in the 35th I.V.I., Co. I; was instrumental in getting up the company, and furnishing the means; was commissioned Captain. Married Louisa Slaughter; born in Indiana; she died in 1866; leaving six children; lost one. Married Phebe McCord, from Linn Co., Iowa, in 1869; they have two children-Harry and Maud. Story, Williamson, stock dealer. Stout, G.W., stone mason. Stout, W.R., farmer, Sec. 32. Stuben, P.N., farmer. Sturling, H.H., boarding house. Sulvert, William, laborer. Swaim, J.J. Swaim, Marcus, farmer. Taggart, G.M., clerk. Taggart, J.A., harness maker. Taggart, Samuel, farmer, Sec. 17. Tanhill, G.W., money loaner. Taylor, F.J. Taylor, J.W., harness maker. Taylor, D.J., carpenter. Tewkesbery, W.A., attorney. Thatcher, Samuel L., farmer; born in Vermont, Oct. 28, 1819; lived in that State twenty-four years; came to Wisconsin, and was engaged in selling agricultural implements; came to Benton Co. in 1860; has been engaged in farming and in ditching and draining by machinery and in moving buildings; when he came he had nothing and was $1,000 in debt, and now owns over 300 acres of land. Married Miss Sarah J. Baley, from Pennsylvania; they have two children-Ida and James. Thayer, D.W., farmer, Sec.22. Thompson, J.C., bridge builder. Tilford, John S., retired; born in Clark Co., Ind., July 30, 1811; lived there until 1832, when he enlisted in the U.S. service in the Black Hawk War; he was in the Ranger Corps; Captain Ford commanded the company, and when they reached Rock Island they were under General Scott, and four companies of them went South to make treaties with the several tribes; he returned to Johnson Co., Ind., and was engaged in the cabinet and coffin business; in 1850, he came to Iowa and located land, and in April 1851 came here to reside; he entered the land upon which part of the city is now built; only three persons here now that were here when he came; there were more Indians than white people here then; owns several farms, and has been identified with all the interests of the county. Married Margaret J. Young, from Franklin, Johnson Co., Ind, April 21, 1835; they have three children-J.Y. Tilford, Mrs. Ann J. Hanford and Helen A. Tracy; they have lost three children. Tilford, John Y., farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 14; born in Franklin Co., Ind., Feb. 11, 1836; lived there until sixteen years of age; came to Vinton in April, 1852; one of the early settlers here, there being only a few persons here now that were here when he came; owns farm of 120 acres. Married Miss Mahala Harper, from Ohio, in 1857; she died in 1872, leaving three children-Cora M., Margaret A. and Minnie L. Married Miss Hattie Wilcox from near Columbus, Ohio, in Nov. 1873; they have one son-John E. Tilford. Tillotson, C.K. Tilson, W.A., laborer. Tinker, G.S., drayman. Tinkham, Jacob L., firm of Tinkham & Miller, grocers; born in Franklin Co., Ohio, Jan. 2, 1832; lived there twenty-six years, and came to Benton Co., Iowa in 1858-to Marysville; engaged in cabinet making and building business. Was in the army; enlisted in 8th Iowa V.I., Company D; was in battle of Shiloh, and was taken prisoner; after going to Tuscaloosa and Montgomery, was paroled, and returned to his regiment; was in the Vicksburg campaign; was slightly wounded at Memphis during the Forrest raid; was in the campaign against Mobile. Returned here in 1866, and engaged in business with Levi S. Miller; holds office of Town Trustee, and has held town and school offices. Married Virginia M. Mossman, from Ohio, in 1862; they have two children-Edwin M. and Bertha L.; lost two children-Leslie and baby. Titus, Calvin, laborer. Titus, H. Tobin, Thomas. The subject of this biography was born in Ireland Aug. 15, 1835; his father's name was Richard Tobin, who died when the professor was a child; he lost his mother when 7 or 8 years of age; then the family was broken up, the oldest members, two brothers and two sisters, coming to America, leaving Mr. Tobin and a young sister, orphans, in a county then passing through the period of the famine, when the crops failed to be harvested three years. During these three years the children lived upon what the hand of friendship could in these trying times supply. In 1850, one of the brothers mentioned above, Richard Tobin, now of Oswego, N.Y., sent money to Ireland for his young brother, then about 15 years of age; the lad started for America, without friends or education, and landed in New York hatless and barefoot, not having a single penny in the world; two years afterward he learned his letters, went to school and passed rapidly through the common school; although he attended school in the Winter, he made such progress that his friends advised him to seek higher advantages; in 1857, he left Long Island and venturing upon the road to learning, entered Fort Edward Collegiate Seminary; there he met Prof. S.A. Knapp and wife. After enduring many vicissitudes in the preparatory and collegiate courses, he graduated in June 1862, and was ordained to preach the Gospel in the Baptist Church in 1863. He often remarks that he spent three months in school during which time he had not money enough to buy a postage stamp. He has taught some part of each year since, with fair success. In 1868, Mr. Tobin learned for the first time since he came to America where his brother who had sent for him was; the meeting was a joyous one; at that time, also, he learned that the little sister whom he had left in Ireland had also come to America, was married and settled near Green Bay, Wis., in the enjoyment of a large, smart, healthy family, one of which, C. McCarty, now is in the Academy. The brother of whom we have spoken still resides in Oswego, N.Y., and among other sources of happiness rejoices to see the little orphans, whom he so kindly remembered in sending them his hard earned money, so well situated in this life, and honor and a comfort to himself. In March, 1871, Mr. Tobin came to Vinton, and through the advice of Prof. Knapp, he laid out all he had accumulated in the enterprise now known as Tilford Academy; within six days after Mr. Tobin landed in Vinton, the plan for the Academy was completed, and thirteen teams and twenty-five men were at work upon the grounds and builiding, setting out trees, grading, etc., and within five months from the time of commencing, the Professor had completed and furnished the Academy; had gone to Vermont, married, returned and had a school of one hundred students in full and successful operation. When the Academy was dedicated, Prof. S.A. Knapp delivered the address in Watson's Hall in which he quoted, by way of recommendation, what the President of the Institution from which Mr. Tobin graduated said of him "he can be depended upon." Mr. T. has been before the public and the people of Benton Co. for the last seven years; he has organized and conducted a first-class Academy, with but little help from the community and in no wise connected with a Church or State; and to-day Tilford Academy, with its fine buildings, furniture and surroundings is known to Benton Co. and a large portion of Iowa, and merits to be considered worthy of favor and patronage. The institution , with all its equiptments, cost over $26,000. It is well arranged for 125 students and five teachers; everything is taught that the public requires; sixty students find a good home in the Academy building. The buildings are well calculated for school and school purposes and are the special pride of Vinton and Benton County. Prof. Tobin has been aided from the beginning by his excellent and accomplished wife, Allie C., daughter of Philip and Mary Griswold, of Castletown, Vt., to whom he owes much of the success and efficientcy of the institution. Mrs. Tobin has also acquired a high reputation as an artist; as a teacher she has no superior, and is highly beloved by all who know her. Mr. Tobin is also happy in the company and assistance of his nephew, T.F. Tobin, son of the brother and benefactor spoken of above; this young man has made rapid improvements in his studies, and has worked his way through and up to the Sophomore year in College, and is determined to go through the highest available course. He is a good teacher and higly esteemed by all who know him. The State and Nation will hear from him yet, and be pleased to honor him. The Professor's life and success thus far should stimulate our young meant to look forward to the privileges and opportunites they have to enjoy, of the life before them, and it should be an incentive and inducement to noble undertakings and perseverence. Young men, so live that men of worth and integrity can say of you, "he can be depended upon." Thompson, C., retired farmer. Traer, J.C., Dr., of the firm Traer Bros., bankers; born in Knox Co., Ohio, Sept. 7, 1825, and came to Iowa in 1845, and lived in Muscatine Co., one year and in Cedar Co. one year, and in Cedar Rapids three years; came to Benton Co. in August, 1851, and is one of the earliest settlers here; he practiced medicine several years; was the first physician in Vinton; he studied law, and has practiced his profession for twenty years; has also been engaged in the banking business since 1855; he was a member of the Constitutional Convention in 1857, and has held the office of Mayor two years. Married Miss M.W. Ferguson, from Portage Co., Ohio, in November 1849; they have eight children-William N., Florence E., George E., Glenwood, Jesse F., Mary, James F., and Clifford A. Traer, U.E., physician. Traer, William Montgomery, of the banking house of Traer Bros.; was born in Vinton, Benton Co., May 21, 1852; he is the first person that was born in Vinton, and he has lived here twenty-six years; he has been connected with the active management of the bank since 1871. Married Miss Delia Boggs, daughter of A.W. Boggs, Esq., of this county, Sept. 4, 1873; they have two children-James Ferguson and William Traer, Jr. Tyron, Jesse, farmer. Tyler, Fred, butter and egg dealer. Ullom, W.T., farmer. Uttley, P.L., Assistant Postmaster. Vanhorn, W.B., grain buyer. Vannice, J.N., retired farmer. Verharen, H., harness makers. Verharen, Frank T., of the firm of Verharen & Ray, dealers in agricultural machinery and farm implements; born in Prussia Nov. 1, 1843; came to America in 1850; lived in Illinois for some years, in Galena and in Whiteside county; lived in Dubuque three years; came to Vinton in 1870, and engaged in his present business. Married Miss Lottie B. Drake, from Massachusetts, in July, 1871; they have two daughters-Lena and Lula. Vorhies, A.J., farmer. Voris, Fielding R., born July 10, 1810, in Mercer Co., Ky. Inheriting an iron will and untiring perseverance, at the early age of 18, for the purpose of making a home for his parents, he plunged into the woods of Indiana, then the border of civilization, and almost within hearing of the red man's war whoop, and purchased for his father an eighty acre tract of land, and, after returning for his father's family, cleared up the land and prepared a farm by cutting out the dense and heavy forest growing thereon. Taking these things into consideration, young Voris had undertaken no small task; but with filial affection he struggled to get a home for his parents. He enlisted in the United States service, in 1832, in the Black Hawk war; a part of his army life in that year was spent on the grounds where the city of Chicago now stands, which, at the time mentioned, was but a mere trading point, with some five or six rude buildings and right here it may be added that when the guns of Fort sumter proclaimed the morn of the rebellion at hand, although surrounded by relatives and neighbors unfriendly to the Union, Mr. Voris fearlessly and manfully unfurled the flag and boldly proclaimed that, as for him and his, they were for the Union; and to show his faith by his works, notwithstanding the infirmities of age were creeping upon him, when John Morgan crossed the line into Indiana, he left family and property and rushed to the front to meet the invader, and was color-bearer under Col. Lamberson for Capt. A.C. Woods until his discharge became necessitated on account of sickness. In politics, Mr. Voris may be classed as a thorough Republican, he has affiliated with that party in its organization, and has ever since earnestly and vigorously supported its principles. He married June 22, 1835, Miss Sarah Smock, who died Jan. 9, 1844; was again married June 23, 1845, to Mrs. Ann Smock, who is still living, and the name of "Mother Voris" is a synonym of matronly goodness; his family, which consists at present of three boys and two girls, all of whom have been finely educated and teachers of the highest type; two of his sons have adopted the law, the other, mercantile pursuits; the young ladies have won a reputation second to none as pracical teachers. Mr. Voris moved from Indiana to Benton Co., Iowa in August 1864, and purchased a farm of 160 acres from A.W. Boggs, upon which himself and family resided for eight years; and in 1872, he purchased a fine home in the city of Vinton and retired from active life, and is now a member of the City Council, and brings to bear all his energies in transactiong offical business, in consequence of which has been constantly re-elected in his ward. Voris, David E., Vinton, Iowa; although a young man, he has by industry and a careful and systematic course of legal training, developed into one of the most reliable attorneys in the State; Mr. Voris is a native of Indiana, born in Johnson Co. Sept. 17, 1850; emigrated to Benton Co., Iowa in Aug., 1864, with his father and family, and worked on the paternal acres for several years; like most men who carve out an enviable reputation for themselves, Mr. Voris, has almost, it might be said, worked his own way upward in the path of knowledge, as he had but few education advantages beyond some three months in each year at the district school, until he was 17 years old, when he attended Rev. J.S. Dunning's select school, some eighteen months, and one term at Tilford's academy, under charge of Rev. T. Tabin, in Vinton, Iowa; Mr. Voris' chosen profession was the law, upon the study of which, he commenced with Traier & Gilchrist, in Vinton, Iowa, defraying all incidental expenses by teaching school; in due time he was admitted to the bar in Vinton, March 1874, and in April of that year, commenced the practice of his profession at Sac City, Iowa; in Nov. of 1874, he decided to return to Vinton, at which place he has vigorously followed the practice of law ever since; first, in partnership with H. Jones, afterward, with Robert St. Clair; but in Jan. 29, 1877, he purchased the interests of Mr. St. Clair, and has since been running the office alone. By strict integrity and close application to the interest of his clients, aided by his private irreproachable character, Mr. Voris had admirably succeeded in building up a large and lucrative practice, which is annually increasing, and his service sought for by parties litigant throught the State, from Davenport to Council Bluffs. Mr. Voris was married Aug. 26, 1875, to Miss Mary Olivia Dukes, an estimable young lady, by Rev. Stephen Phelps; time has developed this matrimonial venture to be a wise one for both parties; there being at this time no more cozier, happier or cheerful home than that of Mr. and Mrs. David E. Voris, in the State of Iowa; and add to this, a flourishing practice, the subject of this sketch is to be envied for his deserved success in business and personal propularity as a private citizen. Waddington, Richard, teamster. Wagner, C., merchant tailor. Waite, E.G., minister. Wakefield, Wm. L., far., Sec. 10. Wakefield, M.A., Far., Sec. 14. Wakefield, Ira C., farmer, Sec. 14. Wallery, T.B., laborer. Walton, J.H., retired. Walton, P.R., farmer. Ward, Thomas, farmer, Sec. 34. Warner, Jacob, farmer, Sec. 29. Warner, H.E., Clerk of District and Circuit Courts; born in Lake Co., Ohio, Jan. 10, 1839, went to Rock Co., Wis., at an early age. Was in the army; enlisted in the 22d Regt. Wis. Inf., Co. E; was wounded in the battle of Resaca, Ga.; was taken prisoner at Brentwood; taken to Richmond, and afterward exchanged. Held the office of Clerk of the Board of Supervisors in Rock Co., Wis., two years; was elected to his present office in 1874, and was re-elected in 1876. Married Miss Anna J. Riggs, from Beloit, Wis., in October 1870; they have three children-Majora, Arthur H.H., and baby. Watkins, A.C., proprietor of Howard House; born in Genesee Co., N.Y., July 28, 1826; lived in that State about seventeen years, and removed to Ohio; went to California and was there four years, and returned to Ohio; removed to Illinois, and was in the hotel business at Plainfield, Will Co.; kept hotel at Cortland, Trumbull Co., five years; came to Vinton in March, 1869, and has been engaged in hotel business here the past nine years. Was in the army; enlisted in the 8th I.V.C., Co. K; was elected First Lieutenant of Co. K, and was obliged to resign on account of ill health. Married Marion E. Oviatt, from Summit Co., Ohio May 2, 1851; they have seven children-Edwin F., Ida May, Mona M., Broderick E., Almeron, Daisy and Burt; lost two-Frank and Lily. Watson, A.K., speculator. Watson, Henry, grocer. Watson, P.W., of the firm of S.H. Watson & Sons, bankers; born in Harrison Co., Ohio, Dec. 17, 1852; came with his parents to Iowa at an early age, and has been engaged in banking business with his father for the past six years; is also engaged in the grocery and provision business, the firm of P.W. Watson & Co. Married Miss Blance V. Hewes, from New York State, May 14, 1873; they have on son-Samuel H. Watson, Jr. Watson, Samuel H., of the firm of Samuel H. Watson & Sons, bankers, born in Ohio Co., W. Va., July 3, 1828; when 6 years of age, moved to Harrison Co., Ohio; came to Vinton, Iowa, Oct. 14, 1856, and engaged in the banking business with Judge Douglass; he retired from the business in 1861, and Mr. Watson continued it until 1866, when he organized a national bank and continued for four years; then the organization was dissolved; Mr. Watson continuing the business, his sons becoming interested with him. He has held town and school offices; has held the ofice of treasurer and one of the Trustees of the State College for the Blind about ten years. Married Miss Emeline Perrine, from Belmont Co., Ohio, Nov. 21, 1849; they have seven children- William P., Peter W., Clara, Clifford, Frank, Lillie and Estella. Weaver, Amos, minister. Webb, A.K., plasterer. Webb, E.C., laborer. Webb, G.W., stock buyer. Webb, J.R., retired. Webb, J.W.O., boot and shoe dealer. Webb, M.D.L., retired; born in Woodford Co., Ky., April 2, 1824; when 15 years old, moved to Franklin, Ind.; lived there eleven years and came to Iowa; his father's family came by wagon, and he came by stage and arrived at Vinton Oct. 19, 1851; he was one of the earliest settlers-Mr. Tilford, Dr. Traer and James Wood, the only ones here now that were here then. He married Miss Mary J. Beckett April 5, 1853; she was born in Danville, Hendricks Co., Ind., and came with her parents to this county in 1847; they were the first couple married in Vinton; they commenced housekeeping and have only moved once since then. Mr. Webb has been engaged in the farming, stock and mercantile business and says that for several years after he came, that he, or Dr. Traer, Russell Jones or Dr. Stanberry, when they needed, could get all the money there was in the town in twenty minutes. Mr. and Mrs. Webb have two sons-Elliot C., born April 9, 1855; Wilbert W., born Oct. 4, 1857. Mrs Ruth Webb, mother of Mr. Webb, is 86 years of age and is living here; her husband died in 1852. Mrs. Melinda M. Beckett, Mother of Mrs. Webb was born in Bourbon Co., Ky., she came here in 1849, one of the earliest settlers; she is 78 years of age, and is very active, and has a wonderful clear memory of the incidents of her early life here; she has three children-James R. Webb, of Chicago, Mrs. Eliza Sanders, and Mrs. Webb; her husband died in 1851. Webster, A.B., horse dealer. Weddle, G.D., miller. Weed, William, carpenter. Wentz, Arthur A., farmer and raiser of fine stock; born in Chester Co., Penn., Oct. 8, 1846; he lived there twenty years, and came to Linn Co., Iowa, in 1866, and engaged in the book business; came to Vinton in 1867 and engaged in the abstract business for some years; he made the present abstract books; on account of his health he sold the abstract books to Mr. Knapp, and bought the farm where he now lives, just out of the city limits, and engaged in raising fine stock; he held office of Town Clerk for some years; holds office of Supervisor of this county; was appointed in June, 1876, and was elected to fill the same office in the Fall of same year. Married Miss Clara Blackman, from Marion, Linn Co., Iowa April 23, 1868; they have two children-George E. and John T.; they have lost three sons- Harry, Charley and Allen. Westover, William, stock dealer. Wetz, Jacob, pension agent. Wetz, Wit., laborer Whipple, Cyrenius T., farmer; born in Licking Co., Ohio, Oct. 11, 1827; lived in Ohio until 11 years of age, and moved with his parents to Logansport, Ind.; lived in Indiana fifteen years; in 1850, in company with three other young men, came by wagon to Iowa, to this county, and selected land here and entered it; there was only one log house here at that time; returned to Indiana and came here again in 1852; in 1854, he came with his parents to reside permanently; located on his land and built a house costing about $1,000, the best one around here then; engaged in farming; in 1860, he bought where he now lives and paid $50 an acre for it; he owns about 350 acres of land, most of it adjoining the city and very valuable. Married Nancy J. Cline March 6, 1856; she was born in Franklin, Johnson Co., Ind, and came here in October, 1850, and was one of the earliest settlers here; they have three sons and ond daughter-William P., Miles E., Selmon T., and Cora Jane; they lost one daughter-Callie. White, Charles G., carpenter and builder; born in Rutland, Vt., Nov. 29, 1830; moved to New York State in infancy and when 5 years of age came with his parents to Davenport, Iowa, being forty days on the way; they were among the earliest settlers; there was not a house in Davenport except a ferry shanty; the government soldiers were on the island and most of the inhabitants were Indians; they were among the earliest settlers in the State; learned the trade of carpenter and joiner in Le Claire; came to Vinton in 1857 and engaged in building, and has built and has helped to build some of the best buildings here. Has held office of City Marshal and Collector in Le Claire, Iowa. Married Evelina Miller, from Allegheny City, Penn., Dec. 5, 1850; they have four children-Clarence L., William, Mary M. and Bessie; they have lost two sons. White, C.L., carpenter. White, David H., carpenter and builder; born in Albany Co., N.Y., Sept. 7, 1818; learned the trade of carpenter and joiner; was engaged in building there until 1865, when he came to Vinton and since them has been engaged in building here. Married Miss Catharine Walley, from Albany Co., N.Y., in September, 1837; they have ten children, six sons and four daughters, and lost two children. His son Jesse was in the army, 44th Regt. New York Vols., and was killed at the Battle of Gettysburg. Andrew was in the 91st Regt. New York Vol. Inf. , James E. was Captain in Co. G., 13th Regt. Iowa Inf., and is now Superintendent of the Railway Mail Service, Sixth Division, with headquarters in Chicago. White, Gilman, carpenter. White, S., clerk. Whitehead, Alex, laborer. Whitehead, J.S., teamster. Whitlock, A.S., dairyman. Whitlock, J.A., retired. Whitney, M.G., teamster. Whitson, C.W., laborer. Wilford, Samuel, laborer. Wilkerson, John, farmer, Sec.31. Wilkinson, C.R., editor People's Journal; born in Hamilton Co., Ohio, Aug. 25, 1844; lived there twelve years, and came to Iowa in 1856; was in the army during the rebellion; went out as Adjutant 18th Ohio V.I., and served on staff duty; was in battles of Perryville, Stone River, Chickamauga, Mission Ridge and Nashville; came to Vinton in 1866; was local editor Vinton Eagle, and was connected with the Daily Observer at Cedar Rapids; became connected with the Journal in 1872, and is editor and manager. Married Miss Nette Cooledge, of N.Y. State, May 14, 1872; they have one daughter-Stella. Williams, A.C., retired; born in Wayne Co., Ind., Sept. 18, 1832; he received his education through his own efforts, and prepared himself for teaching, and taught school some years; he was Superintendent Schools Cambridge City, Wayne Co., Ind., for some years, and also in Plymouth, Ind.; he was Professor Penmanship and Bookkeeping in White Water College, Wayne Co., Ind.; came to Benton Co. in 1856, and engaged in teaching school, and taught penmanship; went to Chicago and was in the commission business four years, then was engaged in selling goods on the road for ten years; having bought land here in 1865, he engaged in raising fine stock, principally hogs; he was the first to introduce Poland hogs in this section; on account of his health, he sold his farm, except eighty acres near town; he made the largest public sale of hogs ever held in Benton County, Feb. 20, 1878; in March, April and May, of 1877, he answered over one thousand letters. Married Miss Inez E. Dwelle, from Michigan, in Jan. 1873; they have one son-Lewis Clifford, born Sept. 13, 1877. Williams, J.G. Williams, J.I., farmer, Sec.4. Williams, J.N. Williams, N.L., grocer. Williams, Stephen, minister. Williams, W.E., retired Williams, W.F., banker; born in Lancaster, Fairfield Co., Ohio, May 22, 1830; lived there nineteen years, and went to California by way of Panama, in 1849, and engaged in mercantile business in Marysville, and in the mountains; in 1856, he came to this county and entered 500 acres of land, and spent the Summer in making improvements, and in the Fall returned to the Pacific coast; he spent seventeen years in California; he returned to Vinton, Iowa, in April, 1867, and engaged in banking business with Traer & Co., afterward, engaged in banking and dealing in lands, extensively; he has done more building, and probably made more impovements here, than any man in Vinton, or in Benton Co. Married miss Frances E. Fielding, from Lancaster, Ohio, Jan. 26, 1860; they have four daughters-Mae Ella, Lizzie, Maud and Jennie. Williamson, Daniel, farmer, Sec. 26. Wills, O.F., Teamster. Wilson, George, Tinner. Wilson, Henry M., Capt., farmer and stock raiser, Sec. 30; born in Scott Co., Ind., Dec. 18, 1841; lived there until 14 years of age; then came with his parents to Vinton, in April, 1855; they were among the early settlers. Enlisted as private in the 28th I.V.I., Co. D.; was elected Orderly Sergeant; was in the battles of Magnolia Hill, Champion Hill, siege of Vicksburg, Pleasant Hill, Winchester, Cedar Creek and a number of others, twenty-three in all; he was promoted, and comissioned Lieutenant, and then to Captain and commander of Co. D, 28th regiment. Was elected Sheriff of Benton Co., in 1868; re-elected in 1870, and again re-elected in 1872; served six years. Then engaged in farming and stock raising; owns farm of 150 acres. Married Miss C.J. Cline, from Johnson Co., Ind., in Sept., 1868; they have four children- Callie E., Evert May, Charles S. and Baby. Wilson, J.E. Wilson, Thomas Withrow, David M., merchant tailor; born in Jefferson Co., Ohio, Feb.3, 1830; lived in Ohio about twenty-six years; learned the tailor's trade; came to Vinton in March, 1857, and has lived here twenty-one years; he was the first merchant tailor in Vinton, and the oldest one in Benton Co., having been in business longest. Married Miss Mary S. Watson, from Harrison Co., Ohio, March 16, 1853; they have five children-Virginia, Frank, Anna, Carl and Clifford; lost two sons-William and Joshua. Wittie, G.D., Shoemaker Wood, A.M. Wood, James, Hon., was born March 28, 1822, at Barnesley, England, and was educated at the Grammar school located in his native town and founded by Queen Elizabeth, which he attended until he was 13 years of age, when he was apprenticed to the machinist trade, serving seven years, at Leeds, England. In May, 1842, he came to this country, locating first near Steubenville, Ohio, where he remained only a short time; he worked at his trade for some time at New Philadephia, Ohio, where he was married in October, 1843; he also worked at Wheeling, W. Va., and Pittsburgh, Penn., removing to Iowa in the Spring of 1850, and located at Fremont, now Vinton, where he has since resided, having been thoroughly identified with the growth and progress of the town and county; he opened the first blacksmith shop, which he carried on for about three years, when he engaged in real estate business, which he followed for some time. In 1854, he was appointed Postmaster of Vinton, which office he held for nine years; elected Justice of the Peace in 1862, and has since continuously held the office by re-election, perfoming its responsible yet unpleasant duties to the satisfaction of the general public. He commenced reading law when in New Philadelphia, which he kept up by himself as he had time or opportunity, and was admitted to the bar in 1865. He is the author of several books of reference for attorneys, which are regarded by competent judges as among the most valuable works of the kind ever published. Wood, Robert, farmer, Sec. 24; born in Canada in 1811, and lived there forty-five years; came to the United States in 1856, and came to Iowa, to Benton Co., the same year; they came with their team, and were six weeks and five days on the way, and arrived in Aug., 1856; they were among the early settlers here, and have lived here twenty-two years, engaged in farming; used to haul grain to Cedar Rapids, and has sold wheat at 40 cents per bushel; owns the farm where he now lives. Married Miss Eliza Taultner, from Lower Canada, in the fall of 1842; they have nine children-Mrs. Mary A. Barton, Mrs. Hannah Nichols, Mrs. Dorcas Ten Eyck, Mrs. Lucy Ditch, Mrs. Hattie Rhoades, Mrs. Amanda Owens, Maggie, William, and Hiram; lost two sons-Wellington and James; Wellington was in Co. C, 47th I.V.I., and died at Helena, Ark., from disease, and his mother now draws a pension; William was in the same regiment, and is now in Washington Territory; Mr. Wood had beside two sons, four sons-in-law, Mr. Barton, Mr. Nichols, Mr. Ten Eyck and Mr. Ditch, all in the army. Wood, W.H., laborer. Wood, W.T., laborer. Wood, William, dairyman. Woodard, James, carpenter. Woodburn, William, barber. Woodrow, S., carpenter. Worthen, Joseph H., firm of Tewksbury & Worthen, attorneys; born in Thetford, Orange Co. Vt., Sept. 12, 1848; entered Dartmouth College, and graduated there in the class of 1873; went to Nebraska City in 1874; was Superintendent of Schools there two years. Studied law, and was admitted to the bar there in April, 1876; practiced his profession in Sidney, Fremont Co., two years, and came to Vinton in Jan. 1878, and associated with Mr. Tewksbury. Wright, Thomas, of Trair & Wright, fine stock raisers; born in England Aug. 5, 1833; came to Wisconsin and lived there eleven years, and came to Vinton, Iowa, in 1864; has been engaged in raising fine stock for the past five years; went to England and imported Yorkshire hogs, also raised Poland-China hogs and Short-Horned cattle. Married Miss Mary Ann Gray, from Yorkshire, Enlgand, Nov. 1, 1855; they have eight children- Matilda (she married Thomas L. Manwell April 4, 1878), Sarah, Annie, Minine, Mary, Ella, Leonard and Elsie; they have lost two sons. Wcyoff, P.B., teamster. Yerkes, John H., farmer, Sec. 25 Yerkes, Howard, laborer. Yerkes, Thomas J., farmer, Sec.26; born in Dearborn Co., Ind., Nov. 30, 1842; lived there until 12 years old, and came with his parents to Benton Co., in 1856; located in the timber and has lived here twenty-two years; is engaged in farming, and own farm of sixty-two acres of land. Married Mary J. Ferguson, from this county, in April 1866; they have four children-Mattie A., Harrison Edward, Elba S. and Clara A. Young, J.G., furniture maker. Young, James F., proprietor of City Mills; born in Johnson Co., Ind. April 26, 1825; lived there twenty-three years; four of them came to Iowa by team, in 1848; he spent the Winter in Cedar Rapids, and came to Benton Co., in Dec., 1849; located at Big Grove; there was not a person living in that township when he came; is one of the earliest settlers in the county; there were plenty of Indians there; engaged in farming; in 1855, he came to Vinton, and built a grist-mill; the first mill built in this county that would grind wheat; he is also engaged in the furniture business; firm of J.F. Young & Co. Has held town and school offices. Married Mary Bergen from Indiana in 1849; she died in 1855. Married Lucelia Fellows, from New York, April 17, 1857; they have four children-Joseph G., Clara M., Carrie G. and James W.;lost one son-Bethuel M. Young, Joseph, Sr., retired Young, R.N., grocer. Young, W. H., grain elevator. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- USGENWEB NOTICE: In keeping with the USGenWeb policy of providing free information on the Internet, this data may be used by non-commercial entities, as long as this message remains on all copied material. These electronic pages cannot be reproduced in any format for profit or other gain. Copying of the files within by non-commercial individuals and libraries is encouraged. -----------------------------------------------------------------------