Biographies, beginning with R, History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882 Transcribed by Sally Scarff and Marlene Chaney for the USGenWeb Archives. Submitted August 2000 by Roxanne Barth , IAGenWeb Allamakee County Coordinator. ************************************************************************ USGENWEB NOTICE: These electronic pages may NOT be reproduced in any format for profit or presentation by any other organization or persons. Persons or organizations desiring to use this material, must obtain the written consent of the contributor, or the legal representative of the submitter, and contact the listed USGenWeb archivist with proof of this consent. ************************************************************************ History of Clayton County Iowa 1882 Chicago: Inter-State Publishing Company, 1882 Reprinted by: Monona Historical Society, Monona, Iowa Reproduction by: Unigraphics, Inc., 1401 North Fares Ave, Evansville, Indiana 47711, 1975 R Lodomillo Twp. -- William F. Rankin is a native of Northampton, Mass., born March 23, 1828. His father, Zebina Rankin, was born June 5, 1791, and was married April 22, 1815, to Nancy Packard, who was born Feb. 17, 1790. They were natives of Massachusetts, and had a family of seven children, viz.: Ira P., born Jan. 10, 1817; Austin L., Aug. 30, 1819; Adeline, Oct. 9, 1821; Nancy J., Jan. 5, 1824; Jane, March 27, 1826; William F., March 23, 1828; and Edward, March 18, 1830. The father died Aug. 21, 1854; the mother Jan. 15, 1850. The subject of this memoir was married Aug. 15, 1850, to Margaret A. Westfall, of New York. She died Aug. 6, 1875, leaving three children--Clarence Z., who married Jourline Bemus; N. Jane, wife of W. D. Tremain, and Guy F. Mr. Rankin was married the second time on Feb. 23, 1878, to Mrs. Mertie J. Blakeley, nee Armstrong. She was born in January, 1850, in Walworth County, Wis., and was a daughter of Addison and Mary A. (Perry) Armstrong, the former of Pennsylvania, and the latter was the first white child born in Genesee County, Mich. Mrs. Rankin had two children by her first husband, viz.: Lula A. M., and Luella M. Blakeley, and one child baby--by her last marriage. Mr. Rankin followed farming in Loraine County, O., until 1855, when he became a resident of Lodomillo Township, Clayton County. He owns a farm of sixty acres, forty under excellent cultivation, twenty of timber. In politics he affiliates with the Republican party. He has held the offices of the Justice of the Peace three terms, Assessor twelve years, and Secretary of the School Board six or eight years. He is one of the early settlers and representative men of the county. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 901 Cass Twp. -- Benjamin P. Rawson was born in the town of Schroon, Essex County, N.Y. His father's name was Clark Rawson, and his mother's name was Laverna Pond. His paternal grandfather was Simeon Rawson, who enlisted in the war of the Revolution at the age of fourteen years, and served until he was twenty-one or the close of the war. His maternal grandfather was Benjamin Pond, who was a member of Congress in A. D. 1812, and cast his vote in said Congress in favor of the war against England. B. P. Rawson's early education was obtained at common district and select schools in his native town, after which he attended a number of terms at Newton academy, at Shoreham, Vt., where he received an academic education. In his native town and vicinity he taught school a number of years, and held many important offices of trust, among which were Superintendent of Schools and Justice of the Peace; was also engaged in the practice of law, and engaged in general merchandisin. He emigrated to Indiana in the fall of 1852, where he resided for a year; he then returned to New York. In July, 1858, he came to Strawberry Point, Clayton County, Iowa, where he has redsided ever since. In 1860, under the administration of James Buchanan, he was appointed Assistant Marshall to take the United States census in the thirteen western townships of Clayton Coutny, including Reed, Volga, and Elk. He then pursued the business of collection, insurance, real estate, and claim agent, which business he still pursues. In the fall of A. D. 1866, under the administration of Andrew Johnson, he was appointed Postmaster at Strawberry Point, which he held untill the spring or summer of 1869. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 701-02 Mallory Twp. -- Isaac Ray, one of the prominent farmers and stock-raisers of Mallory Township was born in Iowa on March 25, 1844. His parents, Newton and Hester Ann Ray, nee Griffity, were natives of Kentucky who emigrated to Wisconsin, thence to Iowa at an early day. Isaac was educated in his native State, and in 1862 he enlisted in the Twenty-First Iowa infantry, Company G., under Captain Benton, and served until the close of the war, being under Generals Lawler and Warren of General Grant's command, and participated in many of the hard-fought battles of the war. He was discharged at Clinton, Ia., in 1865. Upon leaving the service he returned to Clayton County, where he has since resided on his farm of 200 acres on section 36. He has his land under excellent cultivation and well stocked. In politics he is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 924 Grand Meadow Twp. -- George Redhead was born in Whittlesey, Cambridgeshire, England, July 16, 1832. He emigrated to America in 1852, and went to Cleveland, O., where he remained four years, then came to Clayton County, this being in 1856. He resided in Garnavillo until 1864, when he located on his present farm of 160 acres in Grand Meadow Township. He was drafted into service for the defense of his country in 1864, and was discharged in July, 1865. Mr. Redheard has been twice married, first in March, 1852, to Anna Rowe, by whom he had two children--Alice, born in 1855, married William Gorden; and John W., born in 1858. His second marriage occurred in 1863, to Mrs. Sarah Robinson. She was born in Erie County, Pa., in 1835, and was married to D.H. Robinson. By this union two children were born--Viola and Carrie M. Robinson. Mr. and Mrs. Redhead have been blessed with four children--George L., born Sept. 30-, 1864; Lilly B., July 11, 1868; Anna K., Aug. 8, 1877 and Sarah G., Dec. 10, 1878. Mr. Redheard has held the office of Road Supervisor. He is a member of the Congregational church, and in politics is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 833 Grand Meadow Twp. -- John Reif is a native of Saxony, Germany, born March 19, 1826. He came to America in 1852, landing in New York after a journey of forty- two days. On the night of Aug. 15 a fearful storm arose, which came near being the destruction of the ship and all on board. Men prayed as they had never prayed before, and in answer to their prayers they were saved. Mr. Reif on arriving in the United States went to Lehigh County, Pa., where he remained ten months, then went to Butler County. Three years later he went to Pittsburg, Pa., and there took a steamer for Minnesota. The cholera broke out on the steamer, and he fell victim to that dreadful disease. He stopped at McGregor, and has since resided in Clayton County. When he recovered from his illness he obtained employment as a farm laborer, and worked at that until he purchased land in Boardman Township. He remained there four years, then bought sixty acres on section 16, Grand Meadow Township, where he still resides. He has his farm under a high state of cultivation. Mr. Reif was married to Catharine Fisher, Feb. 22, 1858; she was born in Bavaria, Germany, May 22, 1825. They have six children--Anna and Louisa (twins), born Feb. 28, 1860; Margaret, April 6, 1862; John W., Aug. 6, 1865; Henry, Dec. 23, 1870, and George, July 28, 1872. Mr. and Mrs. Reif belong to the Lutheran church. He is a Democrat. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 833-834 Farmersburg Twp. -- D. L. Renshaw was born in West Virginia, on May 1, 1831, and was a son of George S. and Martha (Evans) Renshaw, natives of West Virginia, and among the settlers of Clayton County in 1852. They both died in Farmersburg Township, where they had located in 1853. D.L. received his education in the district schools of Pennsylvania, and came to Iowa when quite a young man, settling upon a farm in Clayton County. He now owns one fo the finest and most valuable farms in this section of the State, consisting of 250 acres on sections 22,23,24 and 27. His marriage occurred on May 1, 1855, to Persis Ann daughter of Elijah and Narcissa Angier, nee Loveland, the former of New York, the latter of New Hampshire. Elijah died in Garnavillo Township. She is living in Clinton County, Ia., aged eighty years. Eleven children have been born unto Mr. and Mrs. Renshaw, viz.: Leslie L., born March 5, 1856; Clarence Vernon, March 8, 1857, is married and resides in Sac County, Ia.; Herbert, born Jan. 11, 1859; Wilber, Oct. 24, 1860; Eustace, March 17, 1862; Cornelia Vivian, born Nov. 5, 1863, died March 21, 1864; Arthur, born Dec. 21, 1864, died May 17, 1865; Martha Narcissa, born Sept. 4, 1867; Stella, Oct. 15, 1869; Frank Le Roy, Aug. 8, 1871, and Carroll Wheaton, Oct. 6, 1873. The family are members of the M.E. Church. Mr. Renshaw is a member of A.F. & A. M. lodge, and was one of the charter members of the I.O.O.F. lodge at Colesburg. He has held many of the township offices and is the present Trustee. He votes the Republican ticket. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 781-782 Clayton Twp. -- August Reugnitz is a native of Mecklenburg, Germany, born on the 22d of November, 1852. He left his native county for the United Sates in 1864, and settled at once in Clayton County, Ia. He engaged in farming in this county until 1874, when he accepted a situation as bar-tender for Jacob Stemmer, of Elkader and remained with him three years and nine months, then came to Clayton City and embarked in the business for himself, which he still prosecutes. He was married on April 15, 1878, to Josephine Shore, who was born in Dubuque, Ia. Dec. 11, 1856. They have three children-Berney, born Sept. 26, 1878; Carrie, Aug. 15, 1880, and Laura, May 24, 1882. Mr. Ruegnitz is a member of the Lutheran church, and in his political view is a Democrat. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 725 Clayton Twp. -- Charles Ruegnitz, manufacturer of barrel hoops, Clayton City, was born in Mecklenburg, Germany, on June 12, 1849, and in November 1864, he immigrated to the United States, landing at New York, and from there came at once to Clayton County. He followed the cooper's trade here six years, ane worked in a brewery on year. He then went West and worked on the Union Pacific Railroad one year, and on the Missouri River bridge at Omaha, Neb. some time, then returned to Clayton County. He worked at his trade until 1874, when he obtained employment with the Northwestern Hoop Company, of Chicago, and remained with them seven years. In 1881 he began the manufacturing hoop business for himself, and has successfully continued the business since. He was married on Dec. 16, 1872, to Emma Venus, who was born in Communia, Clayton county, on Sept. 28, 1851. Three children have been born to them--Emma, born Nov. 21, 1873; Fritz, April 16, 1876, and Louis, Dec. 17, 1879. Mr. Ruegnitz was reared in the Lutheran faith. He affiliates with the Democratic party. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 724-725 Sperry Twp. -- George Revell, a native of England, was born Feb. 28, 1843, and came to America in 1870, and immediately came to Iowa, stopping four days in Lockport, N.Y.;then to Sperry Township, where he has resided since. He was married Oct. 16, 1866, to Mary Ann Walker, in England, where she ws born Oct. 1, 1843. Four children have blessed this union - Alfred W., born in England Sept. 19, 1867; Willie W., June 12, 1874; Frank Elmer, Jan. 29,1876; and Sarah, July 6, 1879. Mr. Revell is engaged in improving his farm of 216 acres, which he has now under good cultivation and well stocked. He also conducts a dairy. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 1106 Wagner Twp. -- Edward Reynolds was born in Union County, O., Oct. 8, 1844, son of James and Elizabeth (Russell) Reynolds, the former from Pennsylvania, and the latter a native of Ohio. When four years of age our subject came with his parents to Clayton County, settling on a farm on section 2, Boardman Township, about three miles from Elkader. He received his education in the district schools, and worked on his father's farm until seventeen years of age, when he enlisted in Company K, First Iowa Cavalry. He was in all the battles participated in by his regiment, including twenty-six general engagements. He re-enlisted for a second term of three years, and at the close of the war was sent to Texas. Was mustered out in 1866, having served four years and four months. He purchased a farm in Boardman Township, but sold it a year after; then went into the livery business in Elkader, which he followed two years. Went then to Greene County, Ia., and farmed three years; bought stock one year; then went to Wisconsin and worked for a railroad company a year, returning to Clayton County and buying his father's farm. After farming here three years, he sold out and spent one year in Minnesota, and then removed to St. Olaf, Clayton County, and opened a general store. He has lived here since, and is enjoying a good business. Mr. Reynolds was married Feb. 26, 1866, to Mary J. Hill, born Dec. 4, 1843, in Jefferson County, Wis., daughter of James and Catherine Hill, natives of Lincolnshire, England. They have had nine children - Eliza D., born July 15, 1867; Cora M., March 11, 1868; Ora B., Nov. 15, 1870; James E., Aug. 28, 1871; Charlie W., Sept. 5, 1875; Maud R. , Nov. 20, 1877; Effie Pearl, Oct. 20, 1879; Raymond J., Oct. 19, 1881; Mary E., born Nov. 7, 1873, and died June 26, 1875. Mr. Reynolds is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 1140-41 Mallory Twp. -- J. F. Riegel, farmer and carpenter, was born in the State of Pennsylvania, Dec. 30, 1846. His parents, John and Sarah Riegel, nee Raposs, were also natives of the Keystone State, and early settlers of Michigan. J. F. was educated in his native State and in 1862 he enlisted in the Fifty-first Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers, Company F., under command of Captain Jacob P. Brooks. He participated in twenty-nine severe engagements, among them the battles of Pittsburg Landing, Gettysburg, Fredericksburg, Stone River, second battle of Bull Run, Wilderness, Richmond and many others. He was twice wounded and was knocked down by a spent case shot at Ft. Steadman. His company at one time numbered 111 members, and after four battles only eight were left that were fit for duty. He came to Iowa in 1876 and has engaged in carpentering since-- building most of the housed in Osterdock. He now lives on section 11, where he owns forty acres. In 1878 he married Martha, daugher of Christian Lang, a native of Germany; he came to the United States in 1848, and located in Indiana; he now lives in Mallory Township, Ia. Martha was born in Indiana on April 7, 1855. By this union there are two children--William Arthur, born Nov. 17, 1878; Florence May, born June 10, 1880. Mrs. Riegel is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian church. Mr. Riegel votes the Republican ticket. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 924-925 Monona Twp. -- Joseph Riley, painter, Monona, was born in Green County, Wis., on the 27th day of April, 1845, and was a son of George, a native of Indiana, and Elizabeth (Graham) Riley, a native of Tennessee, who emigrated to Illinois when she was twelve years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Riley were married in Green County, Wis., where two children were born--Joseph and David. He followed the trade of a carpenter and joiner there, and in 1853 emigrated with his family to Clayton County, Iowa, and located in Mendon Township, one mile southwest of McGregor. He purchased 160 acres of land, paying for the same one horse and $160 in cash; erected a cabin, 18 x 20 feet, shingled with shakes or clapboards, and in the meantime cut poles and stretched their wagon cover over them, where they lived until the cabin was finished. Some years later he traded his property for 240 acres of prairie land in the Southen part of Allamakee County, receiving $600 cash. Since that time he has been offered $12,000 for his land. When he came to Clayton County it was still in its infancy, wild game being very plentiful. He was very fond of hunting, and would stand in the door of his cabin and shoot deer, killing fifty-five deer in one winter. Mrs. Riley died Aug. 29, 1856. He still resides on the old homestead in Allamakee County. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm, and received a common school education. When twenty-one years of age he learned the trade of a painter, which he has followed since. In November, 1856, he married Emily, daughter of Thomas B. Walker, who settled on Turkey River in an early day, and is now a resident of Audubon County, Iowa. She was born in Clayton County in 1843. To them have been born four chidren--Hattie J., Nora M., Lillian and George Ira. Mr. Riley has been identified with this county nearly thirty years, and is one of her most prominent citizens. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882 p. 1059-1060 Buena Vista Twp. -- Jacob Riniker, a prominent citizen of Buena Vista Township was born in Switzerland, June 6, 1824. He came to America in 1854, landed at New York, and from there went to Rochester, N.Y., where he remained two years, and came to Clayton County in 1856. He settled in North Buena Vista, section 28, and has lived here since. He owns 240 acres of good land well improved. He has held the office of Township Trustee, and is the present Road Supervisor. He was married in 1851 to Anna Simons, who was born in Switzerland Sept. 7, 1828. By this union there are eight children-Jacob, born June 4, 1855, Emma, Sept. 6, 1856; John, Oct. 20, 1858; Mary Ann, Nov. 26, 1860; Elizabeth, Nov. 30, 1862; Anna, Sept. 16, 1864; Diana, Sept. 18, 1866, and Louisa, May 19, 1871. He belongs to the Cwingle church, which is slightly different from the Lutheran church. He is a Democrat in his political views. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 681 Elk Twp. -- Hugh A. Rizer is a native of West Virginia, born Dec. 24, 1817. When a boy of eight years he left his native State and went to Pennsylvania, where he lived nine years, then removed to Ohio. In 1852 he came to Clayton County and settled on section 10, Elk Towhship, which has been his home since. He owns a finely improved farm of 140 acres, and is extensively engaged in grain and stock-raising. His marriage to Jane Johnston occurred in March 1839. She was born in the State of Pennsylvania, June 10, 1822. Their union has been blessed with thirteen children, nine living--William C. born in 1842; Mary E., on April 1, 1844 (is now the wife of George Masters); Margaret M., born Jan. 29, 1846 (married J. Fleming); John L., born Sept. 1, 1848; Samuel H., April 11, 1850; Henry W., Oct. 1, 1851; Hugh A., Feb. 6, 1855; Lydia I., born March 31, 1857 (married Levi W. Lee), and Delbert G., born Nov. 5, 1863. Mr. Rizer has held the offices of School Trustee, Director and Treasurer, also Township Trustee. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 764-765 Sperry Twp. -- John Roach was born in County Cork, Ireland, Jan. 1, 1835, and came to America in 1849, landing at New York, where he remained three months, then went to Boston. He was married in Manchester, N.H., on Oct. 25, 1860, to Mary Fitzgerald, who was born in Ireland about 1844, and came to America in 1853. Of this union three children have been born, viz.: Patrick, born June 5, 1863; Mary E., March 27, 1867; and Johanna, Aug. 3, 1871. In 1863 Mr. Roach went to California via the Isthmus of Panama, stopping at Aspinwall and Acapulca a short time. From California he went to Virginia City, Nev., where he worked in the mines one year, then returned to San Francisco, Cal. From there he went to Portland, Oregon, thence to the Rocky Mountains and Idaho City, returning to California about two years later. He left California and went to Boston, where he worked in a manufacturing establishment until 1869, when he came to Iowa, arriving in Volga City in April of that year. He bought 160 acres of land on section 15, Sperry Township, where he now resides with his family. He worked on the Illinois Central Railroad at Fort Dodge until 1870, and since that time has been engaged in managing his farm. He is a member of the Catholic church, and in politics is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 1106 Cox Creek Twp. -- Charles Henry Robbins, son of Henry and Relief (French) Robbins, was born on June 25, 1835, in Canada West. His parents were natives of that county and removed to Ohio in 1837, where they resided ten years, then located in Illionois. They came to Clayton County in 1855, arriving here on Oct. 14, of that year, and have made this their home since. The subject of this memoir enlisted in Company B., Twenty-first Iowa Infantry, Aug. 15, 1862, and served three years. He had his whiskers shot off at the battle of Black River Bridge, narrowly escaping death. He was discharged at Baton Rouge, La., in 1865. On Sept. 22, 1869, he was married to Hannah Galer, who was a daughter of Michael and Elizabeth Galer, of Pennsylvania, who came to Clayton County, where they now reside, in 1850. Their union has been blessed with five children -Mary, born Sept. 27, 1871; Charles, April 21, 1873; Clara Jane, April 27, 1875; Rosa, Aug. 15, 1878, and Elsie Amelia, May 13, 1880. Mr. Robins served one years as School Director and has been elected to Several other offices, but declined to serve. He affilates with the Rupublican party. He owns a finely cultivated farm of 156 acres, and is one of the representative men of Clayton County. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 753 Highland Twp. -- Francis K. Robbins, son of Willard and Mary Robbins, nee Johnston, was born in Addison County, Vt., June 26, 1819. He was the first son and fourth child of ten children; all lived to be adults. He was educated in Vermont and Ohio. When he was fifteen years old came with his parents to Ohio. He was married on Nov. 9, 1842, to Christina Peters, who was born in Pennsylvania, and was a daughter of Chrisian and Susan (Moats) Peters. Of eleven children born of this union nine are living - Jerome, married Maria McKeller; Maloa, now Mrs. Gordon McCrae; John, married Hattie Klingman; Arvilla, now Mrs. Edward Copeland; Susan, wife of John Shaffer; Ida, wife of Edward Paterson; Amy, James and Nora. After his marriage Mr. Robbins moved to Wayne County, O., and engaged in farming there eight years, locating in Highland Township, Clayton County, in the spring of 1849. He owns 360 acres here, and eighty in Fayette County, 300 under good cultivation. Mr. Robbins was formerly a Whig, and how affiliates with the Republican party. He is one of the prominent and wealthy agriculturists of Clayton County. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 848 Cass Twp. -- Nelson Roberts, one of the representative farmers of Cass Township, was born in the State of Massachusetts on Aug. 30, 1845, and was a son of Charles and Lydia Roberts. He emigrated to Clayton County in 1857, and worked on farms in this vicinity until 1864, when he enlisted in the army and served two years. Upon leaving the service he returned to Clayton County, and bought his present farm on section 36, Cass Township. He has been twice married. His first wife, Charlotte Jefferson, died leaving two children. He was again married in 1881, to Frances Draper. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 702 Lodomillo Twp. -- Charles Robinson (deceased), retired farmer, Edgewood, was born in Onondaga County, N.Y., March 24, 1819, and was a son of Joseph and Keziah (Watkins) Robinson, also natives of New York. They had a family of four children, of whom Charles was the eldest. He lived with his father until his marriage to Hannah Hare, which occurred Aug. 19, 1838, in Camillus, N.Y. She was born in Duanesburg, Schoharie County, N.Y., and was a daughter of Nicholas and Margaret Hare, nee Gardner, of New York. Six children have been born unto them--Sarah M., who married Wm. Madison and died in September, 1875; Keziah E., wife of O. L. Crandall; James M.; Sherwood W.; Cynthia J., now Mrs. M. H. Alger, and Hellen E., married Milton Lough, who died in January, 1878. Mr. Robinson followed farming in Onondaga County two years after his marriage, then moved to Huron County, Ohio, where he made for himself a home in the forests of that county. He lived there until the spring of 1853, when he came to Clayton County and settled in Lodomillo Township, which has been his home since. He has been elected to many of the township offices, serving as Justice of the Peace four years. He has done much for the improvement of Clayton County, and is one of those pioneers who can now look with satisfaction on the results of years of toil in bringing the county to its present prosperous condition. In politics he was a Republican. Mr. Robinson died April 30, 1882, since the above sketch was written. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 902 Lodomillo Twp. -- James M. Robinson, son of Charles and Hannah (Hare) Robinson, was born in Huron County, O., Nov. 16, 1844. His parents removed to Clayton County when James was about nine years old and settled on section 36, Lodomillo Township, where he now resides. He was married here to Cynthia Noble, on Dec. 3, 1866. She was born in Delaware County, Ia., and is a daughter of Daniel B. and Minerva Noble, nee Peet, of New York. Seven children have been born of this union, viz.: William D., Charles H., Jennie M., Merten S. (died in infancy), Laura D., Olive M. and Worthy A. Mr. Robinson owns a fine farm of 120 acres, all under excellent improvement except twenty acres of timber. In 1864 he enlisted in the 100 days' service in Company F, Forty-sixth Iowa Infantry Volunteers, and served four months and twelve days. He is a Rebublican in politics and cast his first vote for Abraham Lincoln for President. He is one of the responsible and popular men of Clayton County, where he has been identified since childhood. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 903 Lodomillo Twp. -- Sherwood W. Robinson was born in Huron County, Ohio, Aug. 1, 1842, and was a son of Charles and Hannah Robinson, nee Hare, natives of New York, and the parents of six children. In 1850 the family came to Iowa, and located in Jackson County, where they remained one summer, then came to Lodomillo Township, this county. Sherwood lived on the farm with his father until he was twenty-one years old, when he purchased the old homestead, and soon after, on Sept. 20, 1868, was married to Minerva J. Noble, who was born in Delaware County, Iowa, and was a daughter of Daniel B. and Minerva (Peet) Noble, of New York, and now residing in Montana. Their union has been blessed with four children--Eda C., Avery E., Herbert S. and Effie M. Mr. Robinson's farm consists of 120 acres of land, 100 under cultivation, the remainder in timber. He has one of the finest farms in this section of the country. He has held various public positions of trust; was Township Trustee two years, and is the present Assessor. In politics he is a Republican. Mrs. Robinson is a member of the Congregational church. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 902 Volga Twp. -- Conrad Roeder, wagon and carriage manufacturer, was born in Hazen, Darmstadt, Germany, May 16, 1827. His parents, Andrew and Eliza (Lorty)Roeder, were also natives of Germany. His father was a farmer and died in 1842 in his native country. His mother died in Denver, Col. Conrad was educated in the common schools of Hazen, and when seventeern years of age learned the blacksmith's trade and worked at that until 1853. He then came to America and located in Sandusky, Ohio; thence to Dubuque, Iowa. He worked at his trade in the latter place until 1857, then removed to Elkport, and has followed the same occupation here since. He is a first-class workman, and is prepared to do all kinds of work in his line. He was married in 1862 to Wilhelmina Bollinger, of Germany. Of six children born of this union two are living--George and Carrie. The deceased are Anna, Alme, William and Conrad. Mr. Roeder is a member of A.O.U.W. lodge, and in politics is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882 p. 1125 Cox Creek Twp. -- John Romig, son of Jesse and Margaret (Galer) Romig, natives of Pennsylvania, was born in that State on Feb. 12, 1836. He worked on farms and in a saw-mill in his native State, until 1855, when he came with his father to Clayton County, making the entire journey by team. Our subject entated in farming until 1859, when he went to California and engaged in mining and prospecting nine years, being fairly successful. He returned to Clayton County, and after making several trades purchased his present farm in Cox Creek Township. He has been twice married, first in 1865, to Honora Borry, who died in 1871. His second marriage occurred in 1873, to Angie, daughter of Daniel and Barbara McDowell, nee Rice. To them have been born three children -John Henry, born Sept. 10, 1874; Charles Robert, Aug. 23, 1876, and Alma M., Feb. 14, 1880. In politics Mr. Romig is a Republican, and has held several township offices, the duties of which he has discharged with credit and ability. He has ever made Clayton County's interests his own and has done much for the advancement of her interests. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 753 Jefferson Twp. -- John Roth, proprietor of the Guttenberg brewery. This brewery was built in 1852 by Andrew Krutzer. It is of stone, 50 x 60 feet, and was bought of Mr. Krutzer by Mr. Roth, I 1872. John Roth was born in Germany, in 1853, and has been engaged in the brewery business for over twenty years. His father was Frank Roth, who settled in Jefferson Township, where he lived till his death, which occurred in 1880. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 871 Grand Meadow Twp. -- A. J. Rounds was born in Michigan, Dec. 18, 1843. He removed with his parents to Illinois, thence to Wisconsin, and from there to Iowa in 1855. They located on section 2, Marion Township, where our subject has resided since. He was educated at the Fayette Institute, Fayette County, Ia. On Jan. 16, 1868, he was united in marriage with Dora Bell Stanley, who was born in Canada, April 8, 1848. Their union has been blessed with four children - Gem Eldora, born March 6, 1872; Ona Mahitta, Oct. 13, 1875; Omer Jerome, June 16, 1878, and died Aug. 1, 1880, and Jennie May, Dec. 19, 1880. Mr. Rounds has held the offices of School Director and Road Supervisor. In his political views he is a Democrat. He owns ninety-two acres of fine land situated party in Grand Meadow and partly in Marion Townships. He resides in Grand Meadow Township, and is one of the substantial farmers of the county. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 834 Marion Twp. -- J. C. Rounds son of Sylvester Rounds, was born in Norton Township, Bristol County, Mass., Aug. 29, 1818. He went with his parents to New York in 1820. He was educated there and in 1837 went to Livingston County, Mich. He engaged in farming there until 1844, when he removed to Ogle County, Ill. In 1855 he located in Marion Township, Clayton County, arriving here Sept. 18 of that year. He owns 490 broad and fertile acres and is one of the most extensive farmers and stock-breeders in the county. He was married to Stephina Rypezynski in 1876. She is of German nativity, born Jan. 16, 1853. They have one child - Mary, born Feb. 4, 1877. Mr. Rounds has shown himself to be eminently fitted to hold public positions of trust and has been elected to many offices, among them Township Assessor, Township Clerk, Secretary of the School Board, Justice of the Peace and Supervisor. He represented this county in the Legislature in 1874 and 1875. He was instrumental in organizing Marion Township from Wagner. He has ever made Clayton County's interests his own and has done much to improve and advance her natural facilities and votes for the best men. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 935-36 Marion Twp. -- M. M. Rounds was born in Marion Township, Ia., Feb. 6, 1857. He was educated in Fayette Institute, Fayette County, Ia. He has followed farming all his life, working at first for his father and now for himself. His marriage occurred Mar. 30, 1879, to Abbie E. Mather, who was born in Iowa on Nov. 17, 1861. They have one child - Jessie O., born April 16, 1880. Mr. Rounds is a Democrat in political views. He is classed with the substantial men of Clayton County. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 936 Elk Twp. -- William K. Rulon, merchant, Wood Centre, was born in Elk Township, Clayton County, on July 20, 1850, and was one of six children born of Joseph and Mary Rulon, who came from Indiana to Clayton some thirty-five years ago. He was reared and educated in this county, and in 1878 engaged in the mercantile business in Wood Centre, which he still follows. Though beginning on a small capital he has by perserverance and strict attention to business succeeded in amassing a fine trade. He carries a full and complete stock of general merchandise. He was married to Alice R. Combs on July 31, 1875. They have two children -Claudie, born May 6, 1876, and Earl, Feb. 25, 1882. Mr. Rulon served two years as Postmaster, and is now acting as deputy in that capacity under R. G. Ash. He is a Republican in his political views. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 765 Boardman Twp. -- George Russell was born in the State of New York, on June 16, 1833. When he was nineteen years old he came to Clayton County, and settled in Boardman Township, where he owns a fine farm of 165 acres. In October, 1855, he was united in marriage with Mary F. Baker, who was born in New York, Sept. 9, 1835. They have four children, Franklin G., born Sept.3, 1860; Charles L., Sept. 23, 1862; Katie Ann, April 8, 1865; and Joliet, Jan. 25, 1869. Mr. Russell is extensively engaged in farming and stock raising, and makes a specialty of breeding blooded stock. He is a strong supporter of the Republican party. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 668 Wagner Twp. -- George W. Russell, was born in Vermont Apr. 7, 1845, son of Isaac and Nancy (Tewksbury) Russell, natives of New Hampshire. He removed in 1855 with his parents, to Clayton County, where he received his education. He worked on his father's farm until the latter's death, in 1878, and has since, in company with a twin brother, carried on the old homestead farm and another one purchased about twelve years since. Our subject has 250 acres of good land on section 13, under a high state of cultivation, and containing modern buildings and improvements. Mr. Russell has some of the finest stock in the county, including two fine Canadian horses, imported in 1881. He was married May 16, 1871, to Margaret Ann Tapper, daughter of James and Ellen Tapper, of Giard Township. They have two children - Mary Ellen and Ross. Mr. Russell has been Township Trustee two terms. He is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 1141-42 Wagner Twp. -- J. W. Russell was born April 7, 1845, in Orange County, Vt., son of Isaac and Nancy (Tewksbury) Russell, natives of New Hampshire. When nine years old he came with his parents to Clayton County, and settled on section 13, Wagner Township. He attended the public schools of the township until 1865, when he spent a year in school in New York City. He returned and worked on his father's farm until the latter's death in 1878. He has since carried on the old homestead farm, which he now owns. It consists of 250 acres on sections 13 and 24. His farm is well improved and stocked. He was married March 7, 1868, to Flora Hunt, daughter of Warren Hunt, now a resident of New York. They have three children - Etta May, Herbert W. and Cora L. Mrs. Russell is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. In politics he is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 1141 Mendon Twp. -- E. D. Ryan, proprietor of the Railroad House, McGregor, located here in 1860, and engaged in the grocery business until 1875, when he opened his present hotel. It has thirty sleeping-rooms, a parlor and dining-room, and is in every respect a first-class establishment. Mr. Ryan is a native of New York, where he was born Dec. 12, 1823. His parents, Alvin and Harriet (Porter) Ryan, had a family of 5 children, four daughters and one son. The subject of this sketch attended school until 17; then went to Ohio and engaged in running canal- boats and keeping hotel. He married Lydia Brandon in January, 1850, and the fruit of this marriage were five chidlren, one living, viz.: Mary, wife of Sheldon Hall, residing in Pueblo, Col. The mother died in 1859. Mr. Ryan then married Eliza Stacy in 1867. Five children were born of this union, one living, viz.: Shell Ryan, attending school. Mr. Ryan is a member of the I. O. O. f., Itasca Lodge, No. 111, of McGregor. He is one of the old settlers and enterprising representative men of McGregor, where he has been identified since 1860. In politics he is a Democrat. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p.999