BIOS: Des Moines Biographies A to Clarkson; Polk County, Iowa 

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I hope you find this information of value in your genealogy research.
Marion John Rice, mjrice@dakotacom.net 
___________________________________________________________________________

NOTE:  For more information on Polk County, Iowa 
       Please visit the Polk County, IAGenWeb page  
       at http://iagenweb.org/polk/
____________________________________________________________________________

"The History of Polk County, Iowa" 
published by the Union Historical Company, Birdsall, Williams & Co. 1880.  

Des Moines Biographies
BIOGRAPHICAL.
DES MOINES

ABBETT, CAPT. W. A.
-Is a native of Lafayette, Ind.; born 
Dec. 6, 1840; about the year 1850 removed with his parents 
to Indianapolis where he was raised. His education was 
obtained partly in the common schools and high school, 
supplemented by a course in the university. While out of 
school his time was devoted to clerking and as a newsboy. 
At the first call for troops he enlisted in the Third Missouri, 
but through the entreaties of his mother, and also the 
officers, he was rejected, and them returned to clerking; but 
in June, 1862, he again enlisted, as private in company A, 
Seventy-ninth Indiana volunteers, and managed to be 
accepted, and sworn into the service before it was known at 
home. He was promoted to sergeant, and in February 
following to first lieutenant. In July, 1864, he received his 
commission as captain; was ranking officer, and remained in 
command of the regiment for some time. At the close of the 
war in 1865 he was mustered out, having been in all the 
battles with the Army of the Cumberland, participating in 
Stone river, Murfreesboro, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, 
Resaca, Dalton, Atlanta and Kenesaw Mountain, and several 
others, in all over thirty battles and skirmishes, receiving but 
one wound. He entered into the commission business, 
continuing one year, and then engaged in the boot and shoe 
business, and in 1867 came to this city. He became 
associated with W. E. Talbott in the wholesale and retail 
shoe business, under the firm name of W. E. Talbott & Co., 
and later as Talbott & Abbett. In 1875 Mr. J. H. Hatch bought 
out Mr. Talbott, and the firm continued as Hatch & Abbett 
until March, 1880, when they sold out. On the 25th of 
October, 1871, Mr. Abbett was married to Miss Nona J., 
daughter of Hon. J. H. Hatch, of this city. They have two 
children: May and Emma. Have lost one son, Charles L.; 
died in July, 18l5.

AINSWORTH, E. E.
-Was born in Burlington, Vermont, 
August 15, 1839. His youth was spent on a farm, where he 
remained until 1860, when he removed to Macoupin county, 
Illinois. While residing in Macoupin county he was engaged 
in the insurance business. In 1863 he was appointed 
military store-keeper of the Army of the Potomac, which 
position he held for one year. In 1864 
he was employed in the mustering office at Brattleboro, 
Vermont, in which position, he remained till the close of the 
war. He removed to Iowa in the fall of 1866, and located in 
Des Moines. The business in which he engaged upon 
settling in this city was that of the agricultural implement 
trade. This business he has success- 
 
762  BIOGRAPHICAL.
fully followed for nearly fifteen years, and has by energy and 
fair dealing established a large business and an enviable 
business reputation. The firm name is that of Ainsworth & 
Bonbright, and their place of business is on Court Avenue, 
near the river.

AITON, ROBERT
-Was born in New York City, December 
11, 1844, and was there raised. In 
May, 1862, he enlisted in the Twelfth New York regiment; 
was commissioned first lieutenant of 
the Twenty-sixth United States colored troops in January, 
1864, and in February, 1865, to captainof the One Hundred 
and Twenty-eighth United States colored troops. He came to 
Iowa in 1868, and was principal of the Bedford High School 
in 1868 and 1870. Having studied law, he was admitted to 
practice in September, 1869, by Judge McDill, and moving to 
Malvern, Mills county, in March, 1873, soon acquired an 
extensive practice. He was elected mayor of Malvern in 
April, 1875, and served for one year. In September, 1877, he 
established the Mills County Republican, and in August of 
the year following he came to this county, locating in Des 
Moines, having purchased the Des Moines News, of which 
paper he has since been the editor. Mr. Aiton is a stalwart 
Republican, and is doing good work for the party as 
secretary of the State Council of the Union League. In 1869 
he was married to Miss Nellie Pangburn. They have by this 
union two children: Archie and Maude.

ANDREWS, L. F.
-Secretary of the State Board of Health. 
Was born at Athol, Worcester county, 
Massachusetts, March 8th, 1829, and when two years of age 
accompanied his parents to 
Brandon, Vermont. Ten ,years later he returned to 
Massachusetts, and at the age of sixteen years entered the 
office of the Barre (Mass.) Patriot, serving an apprenticeship 
.of three years. He then removed to Michigan, and in 1850 
established the Western Union Newspaper, which with 
presses and type went up in a cloud of fire as a victim of a 
fourth of July pyrotechnic display. He then removed to 
Wisconsin, and for a time was city editor of the Oskosh 
Northwestern; thence to Lafayette, Indiana, where he was 
for two years assistant editor of the Daily Courier. In 
December, 1864, he came to Des Moines, and at once 
entered journalism. Has been the special correspondent of 
the Chicago Journal since '64, and at presents represents 
that paper, together with the Chicago Tribune, St. Paul 
Pioneer Press, St. Louis Globe-Democrat, and New York 
Tribune. He has probably been the longest in continuous 
practice as a journalist of any person in the city. While 
employed ten hours a day at his regular business he found 
time to read law; entered the first class of the Iowa Law 
School, now the law department of the State University. 
Graduated with the class of 1866, and was admitted to the 
bar of the federal and State courts. Was appointed United 
States Commissioner for the district of Iowa by Judge Dillon 
in 1856. He was night editor of the Daily State Register 
under the  administration of Mills & Co., and city editor of the 
Daily Republican and Daily State Journal, with brief intervals 
during their existence. May 5,1880, he was elected to his 
present position. He is faithful to every duty which he 
undertakes, and is well known beyond the borders of the 
State as a most reliable correspondent. His acquaintance 
with prominent men of the State is extensive, and he has 
made many friends by his straightforward manners and 
unostentatious course in the performance of his work. He 
was married at Kalamazoo, Michigan, August 11, 1861, to 
Sophia M. Crittenden, a native of Palmyra, 
 
DES MOINES.                                                                                 
    763     
New York, born April 27; 1829. They have two children 
living: Lillian A. and Frank M.

ANDREWS, WALTER E.
-The subject of this brief notice was 
born in Lowell, Mass., July 24, 
1849. After the usual course of primary instruction in the 
common school, he finished his school education at Barre 
University, Vermont. Like thousands of other energetic and 
aspiring young men of New England, he early resolved to 
seek some field of usefulness in the great and growing West. 
Good fortune directed his footsteps to Iowa, where he 
landed in the spring of 1870, not yet twenty-one years of 
age. In December, 1872, he came to Des Moines, where he 
was employed for several months as city editor of the Iowa 
State Leader, soon purchasing an interest in the same. In 
the fall of 1876 he disposed of his interest in that paper to 
engage in the enterprise of which he has since been the 
business head. As manager of the Iowa Printing Company 
(now Western Newspaper Union) he has contributed largely 
in giving to the capital city of Iowa one of its most successful 
business enterprises. Mr. Andrews was united in marriage to 
Miss Bessie Towne, daughter of J. J. Towne, of  Des 
Moines, February 6, 1877. The worthy young couple are now 
the happy parents of two daughters: Rose and Esther.

ANKENY, GEN. JOSEPH
-This truly noble man was born at 
Somerset, Pa., June 30, 1802. At 
the early age of seventeen he accompanied his brother in 
his emigration to Southern Illinois, 
where he spent nearly two years. They floated down the 
Ohio river to its mouth; thence they 
pulled up the Mississippi and Kaskaskia rivers to 
Brownsville. He returned on horseback to 
Somerset in 1820. This early and hazardous journey tended 
to strongly develop his manliness and self-reliance. He was 
married at Berlin, Somerset county, Pa., July 29, 1823, to 
Harriet Gersey, the estimable woman who until his death, 
and beyond the golden wedding, trod with him the path of 
life, and who at this writing still lives in the city, a noble type 
of true womanhood. They lived on the old homestead on 
Pennsylvania, until 1831, when they removed to Millersburg, 
Holmes county, Ohio, where as farmer and merchant he 
lived for thirty-five'years. In this time he was a member of the 
Ohio Legislature during three terms, and filled other offices, 
both civil and military. He was one of the Republican electors 
of his State in 1860, and was chosen to carry the electoral  
vote of Ohio to Washington upon the breaking out of the 
rebellion. No man exercised a greater or more beneficial 
influence in behalf of liberty and the Union. He had fifty-two 
near relatives and descendants battling for the right. His 
prominent support of the war measures rendered his further 
residence in Holmes county unpleasant, and he determined 
to seek a more patriotic locality. This resulted in his making 
his future home in Polk county, Iowa, in 1867. Here be 
continued to live until May 19, 1876, when he was removed 
by death. General Ankeny purchased property in Des 
Moines and entered his farm, consisting of section twelve, in 
Crocker township in 1854, since which time, in interest and 
residence be has been identified with the settlement and 
progress of Polk county. At the time of his death he was 
among the oldest Masons in the State. All the Masons of the 
city joined to escort his remains to the grave. General 
Ankeny was cast in a heroic mould; a man of tenacious 
character, the Huguenot blood of his ancestry flowing 
strongly in his veins. Independent and self-reliant, he was 
ever forward and energetic in all the duties of life, and 
through all his career awakened and returned the confidence 
and re- 
764 BIOGRAPHICAL.
spect of the best people among whom he resided. He left a 
record such as falls to few men. The 
children of General Ankeny residing in Polk county are Dr. J. 
F. Ankeny and Capt. P. D. Ankeny, General Rollin Y. 
Ankeny, Mrs. John R. Barcroft, and Miss Hattie L. Ankeny at 
home with their mother, corner of Tenth and Locust streets. 
Capt. Henry G. Ankeny resides in Adams county, Iowa, and 
Mary E., now Mrs. Clark, at Hartford,. Conn.
ANKENY, GEN. ROLLIN V.-Was born in Somerset county, 
Pennsylvania, May 22,1830. While 
yet a child his parents removed to Millersburg, Ohio, and his 
time during youth and early 
manhood was chiefly spent in the mercantile house of his 
father. In 1852 he engaged in the drug business at 
Millersburg, in which he continued about four years. In 1855 
he removed to Freeport, Illinois, where he engaged in 
farming. He was one of the originators of the Stephenson 
County Agricultural Society and Farmers' Club, of which 
society he was the honored president and secretary for more 
than four years. He followed the occupation of farmer till the 
breaking out of the late war. During the first months after the 
beginning of the war he was engaged in "stumping" his own 
and adjoining counties, persuading his friends to enlist; by 
their energetic course of action he was instrumental in 
raising more recruits for the army than any other one man in 
the county.. After having done much effective work in 
recruiting volunteers, himself volunteered in August, 1861, in 
company B, Forty-sixth infantry, as a private soldier, became 
orderly sergeant, first lieutenant, and then captain of his 
company, and in September, following, was in the first 
organization of the Army of the Tennessee, participating in 
the first campaign, and up to the capture of Vicksburg, when 
he was acting under confidential orders, until July, 1864. 
During the month last named he was engaged in recruiting 

the One Hundred and Forty-second regiment of Illinois 
Infantry, and went to the front as colonel of said regiment, 
and was soon promoted to the command of the brigade, 
which position he held till the close of the war. In 1865 he 
was promoted to the rank of brigadier-general for gallant and 
efficient conduct. At the close of the war he returned to his 
former home and became connected with the Freeport 
Journal, and was connected with that paper about a year; 
was elector on the Republican ticket in Illinois during the 
campaign which resulted in Grant's first election; he was also 
chairman of the Stephenson county Republican central 
committee. He resumed the occupation of farming in 1866, 
which he followed till 1870, when he removed to Polk county. 
He was engaged in the lumber business at Winterset during 
1872,'73. HL disposed of the business in Winterset, and 
returned to Des Moines, and was appointed deputy United. 
States Marshal, which office he held until 1878, when he 
was severely injured in an accident on the Sioux City & 
Pacific Railroad, and was thereby unfitted for active business 
for the time being. After having spent about one year in 
Colorado recruiting his health he returned to Iowa. In 1879 
he received an appointment in the Department of the 
Interior, and was engaged in the discharge of his duties 
chiefly in Florida and Illinois. In 
July, 1880, he was sent on duty to Oregon. He was married 
August 4, 1853, to Miss Sarah Irvine. She was the daughter 
of Dr. J. S. Irvine, of Millersburg, Ohio; she was raised and 
educated at the latter  place, and was a lady of fine 
education and rare personal accomplishments. She died 
 
DES MOINES.                                                                                
765
January 12, 1879, leaving a family of four children; they are 
named Irvine S., Hattie L. wife of J. W. Conger, of Dexter, 
Rollin V., and Mary E.

ARISS, THOMAS
-Of the firm of Kahler & Co., dealers in 
boots and shoes. Was born in Canada, 
on the 23d of June, 1842, and there was raised and 
educated. While young he learned his present business and 
followed it in that country until July, 1863, when he came to 
this city. Was admitted into the firm and is now successfully 
carrying on business under the firm name of Kahler & Co. 
He was married in this city April 7, 1880, to Miss Bryan, 
daughter of A. J. Bryan.
ASH, ELI-Among the early settlers of Polk county who have 
been identified with its growth and 
development none deserves a more extensive notice than 
Eli Ash, who was born in Wood county,  
Virginia, June 4, 1817. While yet an infant his parents 
removed to Ohio and located near 
Gallipolis, where young Ash was raised and educated. When 
eighteen years of age he learned the 
brick making trade, which he followed three years; his health 
becoming impaired he concluded to change his occupation, 
and soon after learned the cabinet trade, which he followed 
until 1842, when he engaged in school teaching and building 
by times. In November, 1845, he came to this State, and 
located in Van Buren county, and to this county April 21, 
1848, and bought a claim of Dr. Jas. Campbell on section 
34, township 39, which he still owns, being a valuable tract 
of seventy-five acres, adjoining the city limits, and is 
destined to become the chosen location for residences of the 
capital city. After locating here Mr. Ash followed building 
principally until 1872, when he partially retired from the more 
laborious occupation of his life to enjoy a well-earned 
competency. In manners Mr. Ash is unostentatious and 
reserved, yet social and courteous. In business affairs he 
possesses rare judgment and extensive practical knowledge, 
and his wise counsel is often sought by those more actively 
engaged. September 3, 1843, he married Miss Surrepta 
Campbell, of Scotch-Irish origin. They have seven children 
living: Elizabeth (wife of C. 1). Pulford, of Clinton, Ia.), James 
M., George T., John A., Eli F., Eliza J. (wife of Mark 
Skinner), and Josephine; have lost three: Charles, Burt, and 
Ida Rozatha.

ATHERTON, A. C.
-Of the firm of Robinson & Atherton, 
steam heating and plumbing business, 
was born in Anderson, Madison county, Indiana, August 3, 
1850, where he resided until fifteen 
years of age, when he entered the telegraph department of 
the Chicago & Cincinnati Air Line 
Railroad.. He was shortly promoted to train dispatcher and 
superintendent of telegraph, where he remained until 1869, 
when he became connected with the Chicago, Rock Island & 
Pacific Railroad Company as train dispatcher, which position he 
held until February, 1873, when he 
received the appointment of master of transportation and 
superintendent of telegraph of the 
International & Great Northern Railroad of Texas. The yellow 
fever becoming epidemic in the 
South, he resigned and returned North against the earnest 
protest of Mr. Hoxie, general manager. He then assumed his 
former position on the C. R. I. & P. R. R. In February, 1876, 
he was appointed general purchasing agent and master of 
transportation of the Central Iowa Railroad Company, which 
he resigned January 1, 1878, and returned to Des Moines. 
He soon after formed a partnership with Mr. Hiram 
Robinson, in the steam heating and plumbing business. The 
business of the firm extends widely over the State, especially 
that of steam heating apparatus for public buildings. Mr. 
Atherton, or "Cliff," as he is familiarly 
 
766  BIOGRAPHICAL.
called, is a man of sterling business qualities, quick 
perception, clear judgment and possessing a high sense of 
honor. He was united in marriage to Gertrude, eldest 
daughter of Hon. Chester C. Cole, December 10, 1874. By 
this union they have two children: Chester and Alice L.

ATKINSON, A. 
Of the firm of Atkinson Bros., photographers, 
was born in Ohio, on the 5th of 
July, 1851, and, when seven years of age, moved with his 
parents to this city. Here he learned his trade and has since 
continued his business, now having a very nice gallery. The 
firm also have a wholesale and retail stationery store on 
Court Avenue, at which they are doing a good business. Mr. 
Atkinson was married in California, November 29, 18?7, to 
Miss Elizabeth Hoariet. By this union they have one child, 
Edna M., born August 21, 1878.
AULMANN, WILLIAM Of Aulmann's brewery, born near 
Burlington, Iowa, April 19, 1852. The 
enterprise with which Mr. A. is connected was established by 
his father in 1866, and is probably one of the largest 
breweries in this portion of the State. His father came to the 
United States from Germany when he was twenty-seven 
years of age. At the outbreak of the war between the United 
States and Mexico he volunteered his services, and served 
until discharged on account of wounds. In 1866 he removed 
from Burlington to Des Moines and became extensively 
engaged in the brewing business, which he followed until his 
demise, December 31, 1874.
AYERS, G. K. Is the oldest son of W. F. Ayers, who came to 
Fort Des Moines from Ohio, in 
October, 1845, and settled here by permission of Captain 
Allen, now deceased, and is one of the oldest settlers now 
living in this city. Young Ayers was employed in improving a 
claim on 
section 9, which belonged to his father. This land has since 
been known as Hoxie's addition to  
Des Moines. At the age of twenty-two years he entered into 
partnership with his father, put up a steam saw mill on the 
west side of the river it being the first circular saw mill in the 
county and in the fall of 1856 they built a steam flouring mill. 
This mill was burned in 1861, and since that time Mr. Ayers 
has divided his time between milling and agricultural 
pursuits. In the winter of 1879-80, in connection with several 
enterprising gentlemen, he built the guclose works in this 
city, Mr. Ayers taking charge of the milling part of the 
enterprise. On the 5th of July, 1857, he was married to Miss 
Eliza Raling, a native of Ohio. They have three children living 
Allie M. (wife of G. W. Penn), Anna F. and Lillie. Have lost 
one son, Harry L.

AYRES, SAMUEL A.
-Dealer in chinaware and crockery, 
was born March 12, 1835, in Lee 
county, near Ft. Madison. His father had settled there in 
1833, and our subject was amongst the first white children 
born at that place. He was raised on a farm and received a 
common school education. When fifteen years of age he 
went to Muscatine and was engaged as a clerk in a general 
store. There he remained about four years and then went to 
St. Louis, graduating from the Jones Commercial College. 
From that city he went to Kansas City; remained one year 
and then came to Des Moines, in December, 1854, when he 
took a position as clerk in a real estate office, continuing 
therein for two years.. He went west to Council Bluffs and 
Sioux City and remained about two years. After his return he 
enlisted in company D, Second Iowa, in April, 1861. Was out 
about one year and then left his regiment at Pittsburg 
Landing, being discharged on account of disability. On his 
return from the army he was book-keeper for about three 
years in the State  
 
DES 
MOINES                                                                                 
767
Auditor's office; under Cattell. and was then appointed 
Deputy Auditor, serving under Elliott for six years, and under 
Russell for four years. He commenced his present business 
in April, 1878. He was married in Henry, county, this State, in 
December, 1866, to Miss Minnie Menifee, a native of 
Virginia. He has the honor of being the first male child born 
in the Territory of Iowa. They have two sons and two 
daughters: Mary Y., Edgar S., Minnie, and Samuel N.
AYRES, L. E.-Book-keeper in State Auditor's office; born in 
Lee, county, Iowa, in 1844, 
November 4th, where he was raised and educated, residing 
there until January, 1863, when he 
removed to Des Moines, where, with the exception of a few 
years, he has since resided. During 
the war he served in the Fourth Iowa cavalry, company G, 
enlisting November 16, 1861, and 
serving until October, 9th, 1862, when he was discharged on 
account of disabilities. December 
26, 1872, he accepted his present position in the State 
Auditor's office, which, position he has since occupied. He 
was joined in marriage May 31, 1865, to Miss Emma 
Strathern, a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Have three 
children living: Emma D., George E., and Harry S; have 
buried two: Willie E., and Freddie.
BADGER, B. H.-This gentleman is the general agent of the 
Babcock and Chemical engine, and 
dealer in fire department supplies. He first saw the light in 
New York City September 17, 1840. He had a good 
education, and in 1853 was clerk in a banking house in 
Louisville, Kentucky.  In '58 he returned to New York as 
book-keeper in a wholesale house. In '61. was among the 
first to enlist under the tree-months call for troops, and 
enters company 9, Thirteenth New York State militia. . The 
regiment was disbanded at the end of the three months, but 
most of its members promptly re-enlisted, still retaining the 
name of the Thirteenth. Young Badger, enlisted in the same 
and was soon promoted, taking all the grades to second 
lieutenant. He resigned his commission in December, 1862. 
He then came to Chicago and was in the brokerage 
business until 1865, meeting, with heavy financial reverses. 
He then accepted a position in a grocery house, and 
afterward represented a clothing house of Rochester, New 
York.. In 1876 he became general agent of the Babcock 
Extinguisher Company, since merged in the consolidated 
Fire Extinguisher Company, of Chicago,. with headquarters 
at Des Moines. Miss Harriet M. Hutchinsop, a lady of rare 
personal attraction, became his wife December 14, 1863. 
Their family consists of Anna B., Grace H., John H., James 
M., and, Lucy W., having lost one infant daughter. 
BAKER, N. B.-(Deceased.) Adjutant-General of Iowa from 
July 25, 1861, to September 13, 
1876. Was born September 29; 1818, in Henniker, Merrimac 
county (then Hillsborough), New 
Hampsbire. He was prepared for college by Dr. Abbott, of 
Phillips Academy, and was graduated 
at Cambridge, in class of 1839. After leaving college he 
studied law with Franklin Pierce, Judge Fowler, an Gen. 
Peaslee. He was admitted to the bar in 1842, but soon 
connected himself with the secular press. In 1845 he was 
appointed clerk of the court of common pleas, and in 1846 
clerk of the Supreme Court of Judicature for Merrimac 
county. In 1852 he resigned his clerkship and went into the 
practice of law. In 1850 and 1851 he was representative 
from Concord, and Speaker of the House both years. In 
1854 he was elected Governor of New Hampshire, and his 
administration was characterized with his usual promptness 
and endrgy. In 1856 he removed to Iowa, and settled at 
Clinton, where he followed his 
 
768  BIOGRAPHICAL.
profession until 1860. He was elected to the State 
Lesgislature in 1859, and served as 
representative of Clinton county in 1860 and the extra 
session of 1861. On the 25th of July, 1861, he was 
appointed by Governor Kirkwood Adjutant-General of Iowa, 
and retained his place until his death, which occurred on the 
13th of September, 1876. Among the multitude of things 
good and noble performed by Gen. Baker, none are more 
worthy of notice than the following: In 1872 the northwestern 
portion of Iowa was devastated by immense swarms of 
grasshoppers, 
completely destroying the crops, and bringing a great 
majority of the settlers to a sad degree of impoverishment 
and want. The want of the people became known, and 
General Baker at once  
and by common and universal consent took charge of the 
relief movement. He made known the  
wants of  "his people" and public confidence in him being 
thoroughly hearty, were all more than met. To his prompt 
and efficient labors thousands of worthy men, women and 
children owe  
much, for he originated the charity that brought to many of 
them not only the necessaries of  life, but saved them from 
actual starvation.

BAKER, GEORGE C.
-Of the firm of Geo. C. Baker & Co., 
hardware dealers, and manufacturers 
and jobbers of tinware. Among the prominent business men 
of this city may be mentioned the 
above named  gentleman, who was born in Cook county, 
Illinois, December 21, 1844, and raised 
as a farmer's boy, and when eleven years of age he came 
with his parents to this county. In 
August, 1862, being but seventeen years old, he enlisted in 
company B, Twenty-third Iowa 
infantry, and participated in the following battles: Vicksburg, 
Milliken's Bend, Fort 
Esperanza, Fort Blakesley, Port Gibson, Champions'- Hill, 
Black River, and Jackson, Mississippi, being mustered out in 
September, 1865. After his return from the army he engaged 
in the mercantile business in Polk City, where he continued 
until 1873, when he was elected County Auditor and was re-
elected in 1875. He commenced his present business in 
April, 1877, and has succeeded in building up a large and 
constantly increasing trade. His private life and public record 
are alike untarnished. He was married in 1867 to Miss Mary, 
daughter of George and Mary Robinson, she is a native of 
Pennsylvania. Their family circle are George W. and 
Charles K. Have lost one son, Clyde E.
BALDWIN, C. M.-Proprietor of the Capital City Art Gallery, 
corner East Walnut and Fifth 
streets. Mr. B. is a native of Indiana, having been born in 
Grant county, that State, January 27, 1848. There he resided 
until he was 17 years of age when his father removed to 
Michigan, where he resided some two years, when he came 
to Iowa, locating in Marshall county. During the time he 
resided in that county he was engaged in agricultural 
pursuits. In 1874 he came to Des 
Moines, and for some four years was in the employ of M. C. 
Lewis. In October 1878, he bought  
Mr. Lewis out and has since been conducting the business, 
having large and commodious rooms 
on the northeast corner of East Walnut and Fifth. He was 
united in marriage to Mrs. L. J. 
Atkinson, a native of Ohio, December 25, 1876. Have buried 
two children: Ella and Stella.
BALDWIN, G. W.-Was born in Lewis county, New York, on 
the 22d of August, 1808, and there 
was raised and educated. His father, Elijah Baldwin, and 
family, were the first settlers of 
Martinsburgh, Lewis county, and young Baldwin was there 
employed in farming: For nine years 
he was deputy sheriff of his county, and in 1840 embarked in 
the mercantile busi- 
 
DES MOINES.                                                                              
769
ness, which he followed until 1846, when he removed to 
Rome, N. Y. For seven years he was 
superintendent on the Erie canal. He built a mill for grinding 
plaster, and engaged in the 
manufacture of saleratus at Rome, in 1862. In 1865 he came 
to this city and for three years was employed as steward of 
the Savery House. He was overseer of the poor farm six 
years and 
supervisor for the same length of time. In 1876 he became 
engaged in a file factory, which he  
still owns and operates. His marriage was on the 29th of 
August, 1833, to Miss Malinda, 
daughter of David Waters, a prominent citizen of 
Martinsburgh, N. Y. They have three children 
living: Charles W., Florence A. wife of John G. Dissell, of 
Rome), and Julia A. (at home).

BARTLETT, J. W.
-Of the firm of Mitchell, Bartlett & Crain, 
wholesale druggists, was born in 
Ohio, February 19, 1846, and when five years of age 
emigrated with his parents to Clarke county, Iowa, and there 
he was raised and educated. He was engaged in clerking 
until 1864, when he enlisted in company H, Forty-sixth Iowa 
infantry and served four months, then being honorably 
discharged. He removed to Winterset and engaged in the 
drug business, continuing it one year, when he read law with 
John Leonard, Esq., and in the fall of 1868 was admitted to 
the bar. Was then employed as a book-keeper and assistant 
cashier, and in the spring of 1874 be came to this city and 
went into the National State Bank, and, one year later, into 
the Valley Bank. He was married in Winterset to Miss 
Josephine Philbrick. They have three children living: 
Frederick W., Byram L. and an infant. Have lost two: Edith 
M. and Harry.

BARTLETT, BEN. J.-Architect, was born in New Hampshire, 
on the 17th day of July, 1834, and 
removed from this place to Newburyport, Massachusetts. He 
received his architectural education 
in Boston, Mass., and had the advantages of the best 
instruction in the State, combined with 
practical experience. In 1855 he went to Illinois. During the 
late war he enlisted in the Forty-fifth Massachusetts infantry, 
afterward merged in the Fourth heavy artillery. After he was 
mustered out of the U. S. service he returned to Illinois, 
settled in Chicago, and had a wide experience in his 
profession. He came to this city in 1876, and has made a 
specialty of school-houses and churches, and his designs 
may be seen from Wellington, Ohio, to Colorado, west, and 
Texas, south. He was married to Miss Ruth B. Fitch, of 
Plainfield, N. H., in 1854. By this union they have two 
children: Anna B. and Ben. W. A.

BEANER, JACOB
-Carpenter and builder, was born in 
Pennsylvania on the 19th of June, 1839, 
and remained there until after he was educated. He then 
commenced farming and followed the 
same until the spring of 1859, when he learned the 
carpenter's trade. This he continued till August, 1862, when 
he enlisted in company I, One Hundred and Twenty-second 
Pennsylvania 
volunteers and served for nine months, when he was 
honorably discharged, then returned to his 
place of birth, continuing his trade, and in May, 1867, he 
came to this city and has since resided here, doing a good 
business. He has, on an average, six men employed daily. 
He was married in Pennsylvania, April 18,1867, to Miss Mary 
N. Lefevere. Their family consists of six children: Anna, 
Emma L., Frederick H.; Mary L., Jacob D. and Charles C.
BECKWITH, JOHN -Postmaster, is a native of Livingston 
county, New York, and was born on 
the 11th day of August, 1837. He lived in his native place 
until nineteen years of age, and was raised with a mercantile 
experience. In 1861 he enlisted in the One Hundred and 
Fourth New 
 
770  BIOGRAPHICAL.
York infantry, and, after serving thirteen months, was 
discharged on account of disability, and for two years was in 
the employ of the government. in Tennessee. He came to 
this county in 
December, 1866, and in April,. 1867, became connected 
with the post-office as mailing clerk,  
and, after various promotions, had charge of the office. In 
1879, when Mr. Clarkson resigned the position of 
postmaster, on his recommendation Mr. Beckwith. received 
the appointment. He 
married Miss A. C. Nelson in 1868: She is. a native of Iowa. 
They have a family of two children: William and Jessie.. Lost 
one son, Andrew N. 
 
BENNETT, R. D.
-Coal dealer, East Des Moines, was born in 
Oneida county, New York, 
November 15,1831, where he was raised, and resided on a 
farm until he came to Des Moines, in 
1865. Since residing in the city he has, been principally 
engaged in the retail coal trade on the East Side, and for the 
past several years has had charge of the street sprinkling for 
that side of the river. He served some six years as township 
trustee for Lee township, during which time he was overseer 
of the poor for the Seventh ward, and in 1879 he was 
appointed to the same position for the entire township,, 
which position he is at present filling. He was united in 
marriage, in 1860, to Margaret Larkin, a native of Canada. 
Have four children: Elva, Roscoe C., Ernest and Estella.  
 
BIRD, REV. THOMPSON-Rev. Thompson Bird, or "Father 
Bird," as he was familiarly and 
reverently called by all who knew him, was born in Caswell 
county, North Carolina, January 7, 
1804. He lived with his parents until he was twelve years of 
age, when he entered a store as a 
clerk. Possessed of an ardent thirst for knowledge, he 
remained, but five years in a store. He 
prepared for college at a private academy, and entered the. 
University of Chapel Hill, North 
Carolina, from which he graduated in 1827: He then returned 
to his native town, where he 
became a tutor in the academy, filling three terms; thence be 
served three terms as tutor in his alma mater; while there he 
resolved to enter the Christian ministry. With him to resolve 
was to do. He went to Andover and entered the Theological 
Seminary, where he remained three years, a classmate of 
Prof. Caleb Mills, of Wabash College, and other eminent 
scholars. His broad catholic mind could not but contrast the 
condition of the two sections of country-the South, dwarfed 
and degenerated by her peculiar institution; the North, with 
her free schools, intelligent, progressive masses, and energy 
of character, at once awakened his attention and fixed his 
purpose. He returned to North Carolina and entered the 
missionary field on Dan River, along the borders of North 
Carolina and Virginia. December 18a 1838, he married Miss 
Anna Parkhurst Knowlton, a native of Hartford, Vermont, a 
woman of rare culture, and possessing all the attributes of 
true womanhood. She went to Fayettville, North Carolina, in 
1836, where she taught school about one year; thence she 
removed to Raleigh, where she was engaged in teaching, 
when she formed the acquaintance of Mr. Bird; they were 
married in Sussex county, Virginia. In 1840 Mr. Bird removed 
to Thornton, Indiana, where he remained until 1847, when 
he came to Iowa, stopping a few months at Red Rock; 
thence to Des Moines, which was then but a small hamlet. In 
October, of that year, he began his labors as a missionary of 
Des Moines Presbytery for Polk and, adjoining counties, 
which embraced a wide extent of territory, Polk county alone 
covering nearly all of the State north and west of Des 
Moines. His first work was to form a nucleus around which to 

labor. He organized the Central Pres- 
 
DES 
MOINES.                                                                                  
771
byterian Church in June, 1848, and remained its pastor until 
October,. 1865, when he resigned. A few primitive cabins, a 
group of soldiers' barracks, and hazel brush, were all of 
where now stands a city of magnificent proportions. Mr. Bird 
was then a poor man, with a wife and several little children 
dependent on him for support, but with an abiding faith in his 
God he surveyed with cheerfulness the field of his labor, and 
girded himself for the work before him and the privations of 
pioneer life. He entered. at once upon an active, busy life. 
On foot or on horseback he traversed his territory, going 
from neighborhood to neighborhood, swimming rivers, 
plunging through sloughs, to preach in some cabin or 
shaded grove. To walk from Red Rock to Cedar Rapids to 
attend a meeting of the Synod or Presbytery, was not an 
unusual occurrence. He went where duty called, at all times 
and in all seasons. His presence was always greeted with 
gladness. He was the able defender of the faith, and a wise 
counselor. Sunday schools were special objects of interest 
with him, and Bible and tract distribution his favorite work. In 
1852 he began the erection of a church edifice, on Fourth 
street, on the lot adjoining Mills & Co.'s block, an account of 
which will be found on page 679. Mr. Bird, early in the 
settlement of the town made small but judicious investments 
in real estate, which, owing, to the rapid growth and 
prosperity of the town and city, placed him in easy financial 
circumstances. Jan.. 1, 1864, he was stricken with paralysis, 
from which he did not recover, and on Monday, January 4, 
1869, on a beautiful day, just as the sun went down in the 
west, sweetly as a babe falls asleep this noble father in 
Israel closed his eyes in death. He was of that class of men 
who leave their impress where they live, and to him, and the 
noble, self-sacrificing labors of his wife, now living, is the city 
of Des Moines largely indebted for its present good name 
and prosperity. They laid the foundation stone of her social 
structure on the church and school, upon which has been 
built a monument grand and 
glorious. 
 
BIRD, W. K.-William Knowlton Bird, eldest son of Rev. 
Thompson Bird, was born in 
Thorntown, Boone Co., Ind., Sept. 9, 1840. In 1847, with his 
parents be came to Iowa, where be 
has grown to manhood. In his youth he possessed 
uncommon educational advantages, receiving 
the tutelage of his father, and cultured, affectionate mother, 
who evidently moulded his character 
and impressed upon him those traits of integrity and sterling 
worth which give him to-day a 
prominent place among the business men of the city of his 
adoption. He early entered a select 
school at Norwich, Connecticut, but was unable to pursue 
his studies, owing to the weakness of 
his eyes. Returning home, he taught school several terms, 
until the tocsin of war sounded, when 
he enlisted in company D of that noble, heroic, grand old 
band of patriots, the Second Iowa 
Infantry, but was rejected because of the difficulty with his 
eyes. Undaunted he persisted in his 
object, and finally succeeded in securing a place in the 
ranks. At the end of nine months he was 
compelled to return home, and for more than three years 
was unable to transact any business. So 
soon as he recovered from his disability he entered a dry 
goods store as salesman, and his genial 
manners, cultivated mind, and honesty of purpose, at once 
made him popular. In 1873 he 
naturally concluded that what was profitable to his employers 
would be also to himself; and 
renting the corner of Court Avenue and Fourth street in the 
then unoccupied Aborn House, he 
began to paddle his own canoe. It was not long until his 
increasing business demanded more 
commodious
772 BIOGRAPHICAL.
quarters. Luckily the State Insurance Company decided to 
erect a fine stone front structure on 
Fourth street between Court Avenue and Walnut. With a 
keen sagacity which marks the 
successful business man, Mr. Bird at once secured the 
occupancy of the entire first story and 
basement, which was arranged for his special use, making 
one of the largest and best appointed 
dry goods houses in the West. While many wiseacres 
doubtingly shook their heads, Mr. Bird, 
with that indomitable energy and self-reliance which so 
characterized his father, ventured to 
supply a trade want of metropolitan proportions. Events have 
proved his remarkable success. 
Through all the recent years of panic and financial 
revulsions, his commercial ship neither tacked 
to the right nor left, nor went backward, but straight on, and 
to-day he stands with the first of 
business men in the city, possessing the confidence and 
highest esteem of all in social and 
monetary circles-one to whom citizens can point with a good 
degree of pride, as in several other 
cases where Mother Bird had the early training. November 
14, 1866, Mr. Bird was united in 
marriage with Miss Mar. Earle, of Milton, Rock county, 
Wisconsin. One child, a daughter, Anna 
May, was born to them, who died September 7, 1868. 
 
BLYLER, F. F.-Teacher. Mr. B. was born in Lehigh county, 
Pennsylvania, April 27, 1846. When 
he was seven years of age his parents removed to Summit 
county, Ohio, where they resided until 
1857, when they removed to Iowa, locating in Beaver 
township, Polk county, where the subject 
of this sketch was raised. October 10, 1862, he enlisted in 
the Second Iowa battery, and served 
until August, 1865. After the war he was engaged for some 
time in the grocery business in 
Elkhart, after which he engaged for some three years in 
agricultural pursuits, and teaching school 
of winters. In 1871 he engaged in the nursery business at 
Mitchellville, which he followed for 
some five years, Since that time he has been mostly 
engaged in teaching, being at the present 
time employed in teaching in one of the East Side schools. 
June 12, 1867, he was united in 
marriage to Miss Ruth S. Lee, daughter of Mr. Ishmael Lee, 
one of the oldest and most respected 
citizens of Beaver township. She died December 19, 1871, 
leaving two children: Peter and Jay. 
He married for his second wife Mrs. Eva Carebolt, a 
daughter of one of the pioneers of Elkhart 
township, Samuel Venaman. From this union he has two 
children: Freddie and Lee Forest. 
 
BOEHLER, C. A.-Was born in Baden, Germany, August 
31,1836, and was raised and educated 
at Waldshut. He remained there until 17 years of age, 
following the hotel and post-office 
business, and in 1853 emigrated to the United States, 
landing in New York, where he resided six 
years. He was there engaged in the hotel and restaurant 
business, and then went to Newark, N. J., 
remained there one year, and thence to New  Orleans; was 
there at the opening of the war, and 
went into the service as sutler in the One Hundred and 
Twenty-eighth New York volunteers 
under Lieutenant Colonel J. P. Foster. He participated in the 
battles of forts Hudson and Donelson 
and the Red River expedition. In 1864 he came to this city, 
and in 1865 engaged in his present 
business, saloon and billiard hall. He was married in New 
York City , June 12, 1859, to Miss 
Louisa Brutsche, a native of the same place as himself. They 
have five children: Louisa, Albert, 
Annie, Nettie, and Andrew; have lost two: Emma and Louie. 
 
BOGUE, C. D.-Of the firm of Bogue & Wyman, proprietors of 
the Kirkwood House, is a native 
of Vermont, and was born in 1832, and was 
 
DES 
MOINES.                                                                                 
773
raised there with a mercantile experience. He then went to 
New York, and entered the employ of 
a large dry goods house, and remained there until 1854, 
when he engaged in the dry goods 
business in St. Albans, Vermont. At the outbreak of the war 
he sold out his business and enlisted 
in the Tenth Vermont infantry as private; was afterward 
commissioned second lieutenant, first 
lieutenant and captain. For six months he was engaged on 
provost duty in Maryland. He was 
detailed on the staff of the third division of the Third Army 
Corps, and retained this position until 
the Third Army Corps was merged into the Second, Fifth and 
Sixth Army Corps. He was then 
appointed on the staff of the third division of the Sixth Army 
Corps. He was wounded at Cold 
Harbor on the 3d of June, 1863, and at Frederick City, July 
9, 1864, and laid in the officer's 
hospital, at Annapolis, for two months, and after recovering 
was sent to Portland, Maine, for light 
duty. For three months he was post-adjutant, and six, judge-
advocate. After the surrender of Lee 
he was ordered back to his regiment to be mustered out, 
which occurred at Balies' Cross Roads in 
1865 After his return from the army he came West and 
settled in Omaha, and after a residence of 
eight years in Omaha, in which he was engaged in the hotel 
business, he then- changed his 
residence to Des Moines, where he resumed the same 
occupation. In May, 1879, in connection 
with John Wyman, under the name of Bogue & Wyman, 
opened the Kirkwood House, and has 
succeeded in building an enviable reputation. He has a 
cordiality of manner which is truly 
refreshing, and his social qualities give him preeminent 
fitness to preside over a public house. He 
was united in marriage with Mrs. J. A. Ayers, whose maiden 
name was Lacy, in 1879. She is a 
native of New York. 
 
BOWMAN, M. T. V.-General Agent of the Washington Life 
Insurance Company, is a native of 
Waterville, Maine, and was born on the 6th day of July, 
1838, and resided in his native place 
until sixteen years of age. His early youth was spent in 
attending school. In 1854 he went to West 
Virginia, where he was for two years engaged in teaching. 
He then attended Granville College, 
now Dennison University, in Ohio, two years, and returned to 
Maine, and resumed the 
occupation of teaching, which he continued until the 
outbreak of the rebellion, when he enlisted 
in the First Maine cavalry, and was commissioned first 
lieutenant. He remained in the service 
four years, most of the time as brigade and division 
commissary. Returned to Augusta, Maine, 
and was mustered out of the United States service. He then 
engaged in mercantile pursuits at 
Charleston, Mass, and after prosecuting his business for a 
short time, he, in 1867, availed himself 
of an opportunity to engage in the hardware trade in Newton, 
Iowa. After conducting this a short 
time he was employed as a special agent of the Washington 
Life Insurance Company. He came to 
this city in 1870 as General Agent of the Brooklyn Life 
Insurance Company, and after holding 
this office eleven months he accepted the general agency of 
the Washington Life Insurance 
Company, and the success which has attended his career is 
an evidence of his peculiar fitness for 
the position. As a business man he is prompt and energetic. 
Upright in all his dealings he has 
secured the esteem with all whom he has to do. In the spring 
of 1880 Gov. Gear appointed him 
aid-de-camp on his staff, with the rank of lieutenant-colonel. 
He was united in marriage with 
Miss Josephine Webber on the first of January, 1864. She is 
a native of Maine, but a resident of 
Charleston, Mass. Their family consists of four children: 
Leona, 
 
774  BIOGRAPHICAL.
De Forest, Harold M., Hermon T. They have lost three: 
Maud, Curtis H., Howard H. 
 
BOWEN, B. W.-Principal of Business College, was born in 
van Buren, county, Iowa, October 
19, 1841, and resided there until 1856, and then removed to 
Wapello, Louisa county. He was 
raised a farmer and educated ,in the common schools and at 
the Wesleyan University at Mt. 
Pleasant. He has been engaged in teaching seventeen 
years. He was married on the 5th day of September, 
1865, to Miss Lucinda E. Ruble, a native of Burlington, Iowa. 
She died May 12, 1879, leaving three  
children: Clara E., Iris A., and Mary A. He married for his 
second wife Mrs. Hannah M. Hagedon, whose  
maiden name was Hall. She is a native of this State. 
 
BOTKIN, A. H.-Teacher. Born October 3, 1826, in Clark 
county, ,Ohio, where he resided until 
he removed to Clinton county, same State; in 1849, where 
he remained until 1866, when he 
removed to Iowa, locating in Des Moines. During the 
rebellion he was a member of the 
Seventy-ninth Ohio, company D, enlisting the 21st of July, 
1862. In the spring of 1863 he was 
promoted to the captaincy of company C, same regiment in 
which position he served until the 
close of the war. During the time he was in the service he 
participated in many hotly contested 
engagements. At the battle of Peach Tree Creek, the 20th of 
July, 1864, his company went into 
the engagement with 60 men, 30 of whom were either killed 
or wounded, his company being the 
color company of the regiment. He was joined in marriage to 
Martha A. Dillon, a native of 
Wilmington, Ohio, in 1849. 
 
BOWMAN, J.-Physician and surgeon. Is a native of Maine, 
and was born April 10, 1849. When 
two years of age his parents moved to Virginia, and he was 
there raised and educated in the 
private schools, which he afterward supplemented by a 
classical course under Dr. Warren, in the 
Warren Academy, for one year. Then began the study of 
medicine in Illinois with his father, who 
went to that State in 1866. He also attended lectures at the 
Miami Medical College at Cincinnati, 
Ohio, graduating from that institution in 1872.He then 
engaged in his profession in Illinois until 
1875, when he came to this city. His marriage was in Clay 
county, Ills., May 23, 1875, to Miss 
Annie C. Ketchum, of that State. 'They have two sons: 
Jasper J., and Clendaur J. 
 
BOYD, W. F.-Was born in Darke county, Ohio, September 5, 
1848, where he resided until 
seventeen years of age, when he removed with his parents 
to Iowa, and settled in Madison 
county. In the spring of 1866, it being the year following his 
arrival in Iowa, he engaged in his 
present business, that of photographer. His place of 
business was first at Winterset, where he 
remained about one and a half years; at the expiration of 
that time his services were required on 
the home farm, and he was compelled to temporarily 
abandon his chosen calling. At the end of 
three years he resumed his former occupation, and has 
followed it continually ever since. Mr. 
Boyd is an artist by nature, and this inherited talent has been 
supplemented by years of industry 
and careful study. His reputation at the present time is 
among the best in the State. He was 
married August 31, 1874, to Miss Sadie M. Laudenback, of 
Madison county, who is a native of 
Indiana. They have one child: a daughter, named Lulu M. 
 
BRANDT, ISAAC-Youngest son of David Brandt and Martha 
nee Hamilton, was born April 7th, 
1827, near Lancaster, Fairfield county, Ohio. His father was 
of German ancestry, and his mother 
of Scotch-Irish nationality. The youthful years of the subject 
of this sketch were devoted 
 
DES 
MOINES.                                                                            
775
to farm labor and acquiring an education in the district 
school. At the age of sixteen he was 
apprenticed to learn the boot and shoemaking trade; he 
served the regular period of two years 
after the old rule of working for nothing. At the close of his 
apprenticeship, until he was 
twenty-one, he spent the most of his time at working at, his 
trade  during the summer .and 
attending school in winter. The morning he was of age he 
rented a shop and began business for 
himself on a small scale, not having a farthing to begin with. 
The first day (Friday) found him in 
his shop, and by daylight he had it cleaned out ready for 
work. He soon found a job in which he 
made seventy-five cents; on Saturday he earned a dollar, 
and the next week gave him a clean 
profit of ten dollars. This was the commencement of his 
business life. He soon found that it was 
not good to be alone, and so he took a partner, in the person 
of Miss Harriet Wisely, which event 
was celebrated November 1, 1848. Miss Wisely was of 
English-Irish parentage, and was a native 
of the neighborhood in which her husband was born and 
where he lived. In May, of the following 
year, he emigrated with his young wife to Auburn, De Kalb 
county, Indiana, where he renewed 
his labors in the manufacture of boots and shoes. By close 
application and, constant work he 
soon built up an excellent trade, and secured all the work he 
could do with fair wages. In 
October, 1854, he was elected Sheriff; and held the office 
two years with credit to himself and 
satisfaction to his friends. In January, 1856, in company with 
Judge Morris, of Ft. Wayne, and T. 
R. Dickerson, of Waterloo, Indiana, he made a trip to Iowa, 
visiting Iowa City, Des Moines, and 
Council Bluffs, at which place Mr. Brandt made some 
investments that proved in after years to 
be very profitable. After returning to Indiana he found that 
the beautiful prairies of Iowa had 
enchanted him, and accordingly in the spring of 1858 he sold 
all his effects and moved with his 
wife and three small children to Des Moines. In the spring of 
1859 he engaged in merchandising, 
which he continued until the fall of 1865, when he closed out 
his stock and engaged in the real 
estate business. During the rebellion he was an active 
worker for the support and encouragement 
of the men in the field, and contributed liberally to all needed 
funds for the successful 
prosecution of the war. Has always been an active advocate 
of temperance, and can say what can 
be said by but few, that he never tasted a drop of alcoholic 
drinks, wine, or beer, and this is an 
experience of fifty-three years. In the fall of 1862 he was 
elected G. W. C. T. of I. O. G. T.; 
re-elected in 1863, and again in 1870, and in the fall of 1871, 
and again in 1879, making five full 
terms in the chief office of the order. He devotes his entire 
moral powers to the cause of 
temperance, which costs him from $100 to $300 a year, 
without counting his time. As a 
politician he is a staunch Republican. In 1867 he was 
appointed as Deputy State Treasurer. In the 
fall of 1873 Mr. Brandt was elected a member of the 
Fifteenth General Assembly of Iowa. He 
was made chairman of the Committee on Ways and Means; 
also of the Committee on Cities and 
Towns. With his usual good management he succeeded in 
getting several important measures 
through the House that were of great importance to the State 
and the larger cities within the State. 
In the spring of 1877 he was elected a member of the city 
council of Des .Moines, and by his 
fellow councilmen chosen mayor, pro tem. In the spring 6f 
1880 he was selected as the 
Republican candidate for the office of mayor of Des Moines, 
but owing to a sectional division of 
the city he was defeated by a small majority. His family circle 
are: Amos W., Alice J. (now Mrs. 
J. B. 
 
776  BIOGRAPHICAL.
Taylor, Olive C., George W., and Willie R. Lost one, Josiah. 
His oldest child is thirty years of 
age, and none of his children have ever taken a cup of tea or 
coffee; neither have they tasted any 
alcoholic drink. 
 
BRAZLETON, JOHN-Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 
November 21, 1836, where he was raised to manhood.  
He served during the war of the rebellion in the First 
Wisconsin infantry, company J, enlisting  
under the first call of President Lincoln for three-months 
men, serving out his term, and  
re-enlisting in the same company and regiment the 1st of 
October, 1861, serving three years, 
when he was honorably discharged. He remained out of the 
service but a few days, when he 
again enlisted in the same regiment, and served until the 
close of the rebellion. He participated in 
all the battles in which the western army was engaged, being 
with Sherman in his march to the 
sea. During the entire time he was in the service he never 
lost a day from duty, and was but once 
slightly wounded.. He came to Des Moines in 1872, and for 
some eighteen months was engaged 
in railroading, after which he engaged in hotel keeping on 
the East Side, which business he 
followed for some two years, after which he was in the 
employ of Watt & Cochrane for some two 
years. In 1878 he was elected member of the city council 
from the Seventh ward, being elected as 
a Republican from a Democratic ward over a very popular 
competitor. He was united in marriage 
in the fall of 1865 to Miss Mary Hafer. They have three 
children: William, Milton, and Edna 
Pearl. 
 
BRISTOW, P. H.-Deputy Auditor, was born in Henry county, 
Iowa, on the 8th day of June, 1846, 
and while young removed to Lee county, and was raised a 
farmer, at the same time receiving the 
benefits of a good common school education, and for 
several years was engaged in teaching. He 
came to this county in 1871, and for two years was 
connected with the State Republican, and 
between three and four years was Deputy United States 
Collector. He also held the position of 
superintendent of the Des Moines Exposition Company, and 
June 1, 1878, entered the Auditor's 
office as deputy. He is also a member of the board of 
education and a member of the board of 
trustees of Des Moines University: In 1873 he was united in 
marriage with Miss Anna Rouse, a 
native of Indianapolis,. Indiana. To them three children have 
been born: Harry L., Bertha, and 
Sherman P. 
 
BRISTOW, G. W.-County Auditor, was born in Washington 
county, Iowa, September 8, 1841, 
and was raised principally in Lee county. He was raised a 
farmer and followed it as an occupation 
until the outbreak of the rebellion and then enlisted in the 
First Iowa infantry under the first call, 
and after serving four months, enlisted in the First Engineer 
regiment of the West, served three 
years and three months and then re-enlisted in the Ninth U. 
S., Hancock Veteran Volunteers. He 
then went to St. Louis and became the clerk of the city 
assessor, and, in 1867, came to this 
county and engaged in teaching and for some years was 
engaged in the County Treasurer's office, 
first as clerk and afterward as deputy. In 1877 he was 
elected Auditor and re-elected in 1879. He 
was united in marriage with Miss. Eliza R. Claflin, in 1866. 
She was born in Keosauqua, Van- 
Buren county. By this union they have three children: Walter, 
Percy and Erma. 
 
BROOKS, MRS. T. K.-Widow of the late Dr. Brooks, who 
was born in Montpelier, Vermont, 
May 4, 1811. As his father was a farmer, his early days were 
spent on a farm. When about 
twenty-one years. of age he went to New Lisbon, Ohio, and 
there studied medicine with 
 
DES 
MOINES.                                                                                
777
Dr. McCook and graduated at Philadelphia. About the year 
1839 be went to Terre Haute, Indiana, 
and there commenced the practice of his profession, and on 
the 2nd of November, 1843, he was 
married to Miss Phebe, daughter of James and Elizabeth 
Barnes. They continued to live there 
until September, 1845, when they came to this city. Mrs. 
Brooks is the oldest settler now living 
in the city. For five years after coming Dr. Brooks continued 
the practice of his profession, but at 
the same time was engaged in farming, this being the 
principal object in coming here, but as 
there was but one physician here, and he at the Fort, he was 
compelled to give up farming and 
devote himself to his chosen calling. He died in this city, 
February 28, 1868, aged fifty-seven 
years. Left two sons: James F., now living in this city, who 
was educated at the university of Ann 
Arbor; and Lorenzo Las Cases, who graduated at West Point 
in June, 1879, and is now second 
lieutenant of company A, Fifth cavalry, regular army, and is 
located at Fort Laramie, Wyoming 
Territory. 
 
BROWN, T. E.-Was born in Chenango county, New York, on 
the 4th day of October, 1830, and 
resided in his native place until sixteen years of age and 
spent his early life on a farm. From New 
York he went to Pennsylvania, and after a residence there of 
two years returned to New York 
State and studied law in Elmira and in 1854 was admitted to 
the bar. The same year he came to 
this county and has been prominent as one of its most active 
and enterprising citizens. His good 
judgment and confidence in regard to the future of Des 
Moines is evinced by his investments in 
real estate, his addition to the city, and his efforts in laying 
out a park; and the expenditures in 
making it an attractive place of resort, should meet the 
hearty approval and have the sympathy of 
every citizen of Des Moines. He was married to Miss Anna L. 
Marsh, in September, 1856. She is 
a native of Ithaca, New York. Their family consists of four 
children: Frank T., Carrie L., 
Tallmedge and Ralph M. 
 
BROWNE, JOHN-Is a native of Wales and was born on the 
8th day of May, 1815, and lived 
there until seventeen years of age and then went to 
Liverpool, where he was educated with a 
mercantile experience. In 1840 he emigrated to the United 
States and settled in Brooklyn, New 
York, and from this place removed to Whitestown, Oneida 
county, New York, and became 
connected with the New York Mills, and, after remaining with 
this company for about eight 
years, engaged in the insurance business in Utica. In 1854 
he made arrangements with the Des 
Moines Navigation and Railroad Company to take charge of 
their business in this State, and 
since 1867 has had entire control. His life has been one of 
ceaseless activity, and remarkable for 
energy and courage.  He is a man of good sound 
understanding and large practical experience, 
and his career for the past twenty-five years is sufficient 
evidence of a successful manager. Mr. 
Browne has been thrice married-first, in 1834, to Miss Jane 
Swall, a native of England, who died 
in 1856, leaving seven children: Mary S. (now Mrs. 
Parmelee), John, H., Edwin, Hamilton, 
Cornelia (now Mrs. Carpenter), George and Carrie (now Mrs. 
Chambers). He married for his 
second wife, Miss S. M. Scott, a native of Vermont. His third 
wife was Miss Fannie Scott, a 
sister of his first wife. 
 
BROWN, LEVI J.-Attorney, is a native of Portage county, 
Ohio, and was born on the 18th day of 
May1838. His early life was spent on a farm. He had the 
advantages of a common school 
education, supplemented by.
778 BIOGRAPHICAL.
attendance at Hiram College. In 1860 he entered the State 
University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, 
and was graduated from the literary and law department. In 
1865 his inclination as well as good 
judgment led him to settle in this city, where he was for a 
time associated with Judge Mitchell. In 
1867 he formed a partnership with C. A. Dudley, and they 
are the oldest legal firm in the city. 
Impelled by worthy ambition, he has made his way in the 
world and has achieved an enviable 
position in the profession. He was united in marriage with 
Miss Lizzie Block, 1870. She is a 
native of Cleveland, Ohio. 
 
BRUNSDON, J.-Wholesale dealer in cigars and tobacco, 
was born in Gloucestershire, England, 
on the 10th day of February, 1852, and resided there until 
1870. In early life he was apprenticed 
to the grocery business, and followed it as an avocation until 
coming to America, in 1870. He 
settled first in Hamilton, Canada, and after a residence there 
of two years came to Des Moines 
and engaged in his present business, in which he has been 
satisfactorily successful. 
 
BRYAN, J. A.-Chief of Police; born October 8, 1841, in 
Greene county, Ohio. When he was 
seven years of age his parents removed to Madison county, 
Iowa, where he resided some fifteen 
years, during which time he commenced to learn the trade of 
carpenter, finishing the same in Des 
Moines, having taken up his residence here in 1862. From 
that time, until 1872 he was engaged 
in working at his trade. That year he was appointed on the 
police force, serving one year as 
policeman. The year following he was appointed, deputy 
marshal under Adam Hafner, serving in 
that position for two years, after which he served two years 
as policeman. In 1878 he was elected 
city marshal, which position be held until March, 1880, 
having been elected by a majority of over 
600 votes over a very popular competitor. March, 1880, he 
was appointed by the mayor to his 
present position. He was united in marriage to Miss Margaret 
J. Tumbleson, a resident of 
Winterset, December 18, 1861. They have buried two 
children: Ida May and Cora. 
 
BUTTKEREIT, C. G.-Merchant tailor. He was born in 
Prussia on the 3d day of May, 1826, and 
in his early boyhood was raised on a farm, and received his 
education in the schools of his native 
country. He began his trade when about eighteen years of 
age, and in 1851 came to America, 
stopping first in New York City about two years, and from 
there to Litchfield, Conn. In 1855 he 
came to Tama county, this State, and from there to this city 
in 1874, and engaged in his present 
occupation. Mr. Buttkereit from his boyhood up has been of 
an ingenious disposition, and is the 
inventor of the "bell piano," an instrument similar to the piano 
forte, except that the tones are 
produced by bells. He spent about fifteen years in the study 
and completion of this invention, and 
it is his object to make it more perfect in the future. The 
amount he has expended on the one he 
now has is about $3,300. He feels that he can no doubt yet 
add to the musical world an 
instrument of true merit, and one that will far exceed 
anything yet invented in beauty and quality 
of tone. His marriage was in Connecticut; in 1854, to Miss 
Roxanna Addis, of that State. By this 
marriage they have one daughter, Alice, who possesses 
many rare qualifications as a musician on 
the violin, piano and organ. She began the study of music  
when only seven years of age, and 
since that time has devoted about five hours each day to 
practice. Her instruction was under the 
well-know Professor Proctor.
DES MOINES. 779
BUSH, F. P.-Was born in Cleveland, Ohio, October 28, 
1848. When a child his parents removed 
to New Haven, Connecticut, the place of their birth. His 
mother's maiden name was Charlotte 
W. Kimberly, a descendant of the Kimberly who came to 
New Haven in 1638. His father's 
ancestors came from England in 1812. Young Bush passed 
his youth in .New Haven, where he 
was educated. In 1868 he entered the employ of  a dry 
goods firm as salesman, where he 
remained until 1877. From New Haven he removed to Iowa, 
locating in Des Moines. Two years 
he was engaged as traveling agent for Tone Brothers. In 
September, 1879, he bought a half 
interest in connection with W. H. Langan in the confectionery 
establishment with which he is 
now identified. The house with which he is connected was 
established during the year 1871. The 
firm is known by the name of Chapin, Merritt & Co. They are 
not only enterprising and active 
men, who constantly study the demands of their trade and 
the wants of their customers, but in 
addition to this they are ingenious ,and skillful confectioners, 
being practical manufacturers of a 
superior line of goods. Their confectionery is manufactured 
from the best quality, of pure sugar, 
and the popularity of their goods, which is generally 
acknowledged throughout a large region of 
country, has resulted in a trade fully justifying the 
metropolitan pretensions of the house. To this 
firm is the city indebted for the successful operation of at 
least one manufacturing establishment, 
and to the prosperity of its manufacturing interests must the 
city look for future and permanent 
growth. 
 
BUSH, D.-Among the old' settlers of Polk county may be 
mentioned the subject of this sketch, 
who was born in Pennsylvania in March, 1799, and lived in 
his native place until ten years of 
age, and then removed to Licking county, Ohio, where he 
learned the tanning business, and 
followed it until he came to Polk county in 1847, and 
continued the same business; and his was 
the first tannery in this county. Since coming to the county he 
has spent six and one-half years in 
California; he married Miss Elizabeth Mone on the tenth day 
of February, 1824; she was born in 
Ohio. They have two children, Leonidas H. and Horace M. 
 
BUSHNELL, JOSEPH P.-The subject of this sketch was 
born in Jefferson, Ashtabula county, 
Ohio, October 11, 1845. His father was a lawyer by 
profession, and was associated in practice 
with Benjamin F. Wade and Joshua R. Giddings. His mother 
was born in Hartford, Ohio. When 
he was only two years old his father died. His mother 
returned with her only child to Hartford, 
where they remained four years. At the end of that time his 
mother married Mr. W. T. Crouse, of 
Youngstown, Ohio, and resided there about two years, when 
his parents removed to Freeport, 
Illinois. In 1853 the family came to Iowa City and settled on a 
farm. He entered the State 
University and remained two years, when, the war for the 
Union having broken out, he enlisted in 
company D, Forty-fourth Iowa volunteer infantry. After the 
war closed he returned, entered the 
University, remaining two years, when he found it necessary, 
on account of failing health, 
to engage in some out door pursuit, and accordingly traveled 
for some time for a commercial 
house in Chicago. In the spring of 1867 he engaged in the 
hotel business in Council Bluffs, 
where his parents removed the same year. Two years later 
he entered into the newspaper and 
general publishing business, to which he h as since devoted 
all his time. October 11th, 1871, Mr. 
Bushnell was married to Miss Agnes O. Tubbs, daughter ,of  
Dr. O. A. Tubbs, of Council Bluffs, 
now a resident of Des Moines. They
780 BIOGRAPHICAL.
have two children: Charles J. and Grace A. Mr. Bushnell 
removed to Des Moines, his present 
home, in 1870, and commenced the publication of the Des 
Moines City Directory, which he has 
published since that time. He has also published the history 
of a number of counties in Iowa 
during the past ten. years, and during the past five years has 
published the Iowa Commercial 
Gazette. This has recently been consolidated with the Iowa 
Homestead, the largest and oldest 
agricultural newspaper in Iowa, having been published in 
Des Moines nearly twenty-five years. 
This consolidation makes the Homestead a stronger and 
better paper than it has been, even under 
the former efficient management. Mr. Bushnell will still 
publish his Des Moines City and Polk 
county directories. He has also a work in press entitled "A 
Business and Household Manual," 
which, from its contents, we judge will become a popular 
work in every business house and 
household in the land. Mr. Bushnell is zealous in behalf of 
Des Moines, and is doing all he can 
by personal effort and through the press to aid in building up 
the city, believing that "Des Moines 
will not only remain the metropolis of Iowa, but in the near 
future will be the great railroad and 
commercial center of the northwest." From his youth Mr. 
Bushnell has ever been an active 
advocate of temperance. In religion he is a Methodist and in 
politics a Republican. He has that 
disposition and temperament which renders him, amiable, 
social, honorable,. and humane, 
qualities which insure the respect and good will of all his 
friends and neighbors. He is 
sympathetic and benevolent, and conscientious in his 
intercourse with men. As a citizen he is 
honored by all who know him as an honest and trustworthy 
member of society. 
 
BUTLER, H. S.-General agent for the McCormick Harvesting 
Machine Company. The subject of 
this sketch owes his nativity to Oneida county, New York, 
where he was born on the seventeenth 
of  December, 1840. When ten years of age he 
accompanied his parents to Whiteside county, 
Illinois, where he resided for four years. After living in various 
places for a number of years he 
finally came to Polk county, in the fall of 1868. During his 
early manhood he followed farming, 
and while living in Wisconsin was engaged as engineer on a 
steamboat, running on the Fox river. 
While in Chicago he kept books for a prominent firm, and for 
the last thirteen years has been 
engaged in the agricultural implement business, at which he 
has. been very successful. He was 
married on the twentieth of March, 1871, to Miss Aurilla 
Everett, a native of Kalamazoo, 
Michigan. They have had four children, of whom only two are 
now living: Maud and an infant; 
lost two: Robert and Bessie. Mr. Butler is marked as a man 
of broad views,. firm adherence to 
avowed principles, quick perception and sound judgment,. 
which, combined with excellent 
business tact, has given him an influence and success well 
worthy of emulation. 
 
CADY, T. H.-Dealer in lime, cement, etc., was born in 
Indiana, Jan.. 28, 1838; when about one 
year of age his parents came to this State, first locating at 
Burlington. One year later he removed 
to Henry county, and a short time after his mother died. He 
lived there about four years when he 
and his father returned to Burlington. His father died in that 
city. Before his death our subject 
was bound out to one Alex McDonald, and remained about 
twelve years. His educational 
advantages were limited, and what he now has, which is of 
no mean order, he has gained by his 
own exertions. In 1859 he came to this county and located in 
Des Moines. December 31, 1857, 
he was married to Miss Margaret S. Roberts, a native
DES MOINES. 781
of Indiana. They have two sons and four daughters: Edith B., 
Allie J., .John D., Edward, Minnie 
and Myrtle living, and Wm. F. deceased. Mr. Cady has been 
engaged in his present business for 
twelve years and has been very successful. His success can 
only be attributed to hard work and 
fair dealing in trade. 
 
CAMPBELL, DR. JAMES-One of the pioneer settlers of 
Polk county, was born in Gallia county, 
Ohio, on the eleventh day of June, 1815. He was raised a 
farmer and desiring to avail himself of 
the opportunities offered in the then Far West, he ,journeyed, 
on horseback, and so thinly settled 
was the country through which he came that in traveling 
west from Terra Haute, Indiana, he only 
saw one house in a day's ride, and from Virginia, in Louisa 
county to Mt. Pleasant, in Henry 
county, there was not a house. In 1839 he settled in Van 
Buren county, and in March, 1846, came 
to this county and purchased a stock of sutler's goods and 
opened out in the old guard-house, near 
where Third and Vine streets now are, and thus he became 
one of the first if not the first 
merchant in the town. He held the office of treasurer and 
recorder, and has seen the city grow 
from soldiers' barracks to the largest city in the State. He has 
been twice married; first to Miss 
Calista Hill on the eighth day of July, 1841; she was a native 
of Ohio, and died on the eighth day 
of June, 1858. On the twenty-second day of July, 1863, he 
married Barbary Keltz, a native of 
Zanesville, Ohio. He has five children: Milton, Emaline (now 
Mrs. Hathaway of California), 
John, Sarah (now Mrs. Bird), and Albert. 
 
CAMP, J. M.-Blacksmith and wagon maker, was born July 7, 
1847, in Knox county, Ohio, and 
there was raised until fifteen years of age, when with his 
parents he removed. to Monmouth, 
Illinois. He remained in that place until 1866, when, on 
leaving there, he came to Iowa locating at 
Sigourney, Keokuk  county, and there resided until 1876. 
Then took up his residence in Des 
Moines, and since that time has followed his chosen calling. 
During the war Mr. Camp was in the 
employ of the government, part of the time working at his 
trade. He was marred in 1868 to Mary 
McClenahan, a native of Illinois. They have four children: 
Franklin J., Ida, William and Lillie. 
His father was a member of the Twenty-second Iowa infantry 
during the war, and died at 
Vicksburg, July 22, 1863. His mother died at Atlantic, this 
State, February 18, 1873. 
 
CARTER, DR. E. H.-Physician and surgeon.  One of the 
prominent physicians and most successful  
practitioners of this city is the subject of this sketch. He was 
born in Prince Williams 
county, Virginia, on the 9th day of July, 1836, and resided in 
his native place until 1849, and then 
removed to New London, Iowa. His early life was that of a 
farmer boy, and his time was divided 
between farm duties and attending school. In 1848 he first 
came to this county, and for a time 
was engaged in teaching. After deciding to make the 
practice of medicine his life calling, he 
entered the office of Dr. Win. Mowlesworth as preceptor, in 
1861. He attended lectures at 
Cincinnati, Ohio, and was graduated in 1865. In 1869 he 
spent the winter in New York, attending 
the New York Medical University. He was married January 
21, 1865, to Miss Amanda 
Richmond, a native of Ohio. They have one child, Edwin R. 
 
CARSON, GEO. D.-Proprietor of meat market. Was born in 
Buffalo, New York, September 15, 
1849, and in 1867 came to this city. He bas been engaged in 
business, for ten years, and is the 
oldest butcher on the East Side. His mother died when he 
was four years old, and a few 
 
782  BIOGRAPHICAL.
years afterward he went upon the lakes. He was married 
January 1, 1870, to Miss Nellie Porter, a 
native of Ohio, born near Marietta. They are the, parents of 
one son and daughter: Georgietta and 
Fred. D. 
 
CARSON, W. C.-Proprietor meat market. Was born near 
Buffalo, New York, September 3, 
1841, and made that place his home until 1870. When about 
fourteen years old he went upon the 
lakes for a living, which he continued more or less until 1870, 
when became to this city and 
engaged in his present business on the East Side. He was 
married in Buffalo, New York, to Miss 
Catharine Ebersold. They have a family of four sons and one 
daughter: William, John, George, 
Frank and Maud. 
 
CASADY, P. M.-Many of the early settlers of Fort Des 
Moines have been eminently successful. 
They were men of intellectual, moral, and physical stamina, 
industrious, energetic, and shrewd, 
and early laid a good foundation, and have built slowly, yet 
surely and safely. Among these is P. 
M. Casady. He was born near Connersville, Indiana, on the 
3d day of December, 1818, where he 
received his early education at the seminary of that place. 
He was raised on a farm, and finding 
the routine of farm duties unsuited to his taste, early 
resolved to devote his life to some other 
occupation. Finding in the law a wide field for the 
employment and cultivation of his best 
powers, he decided to fit himself for that profession, and` 
was admitted to the bar February 16, 
1841. In 1842 he was appointed Deputy Clerk of the Circuit 
Court of Rush county, Indiana, and 
held that office until he decided to remove to Iowa, in May, 
1846. He arrived at Fort Des Moines 
on the 11th of June of that year, and commenced the 
practice of law in this and adjoining 
counties, and was appointed postmaster by Cave Johnson, 
Postmaster-General, under the Polk 
administration, and resigned December 31, 1848. The same 
year he formed a partnership. with R. 
L. Tidrick, under the firm name of Casady & Tidrick, which 
existed until 1853. April 5th,1847, 
he was appointed School Fund Commissioner for Polk 
county, and resigned the office in eight or 
nine months. In August, 1848, he was elected State Senator 
for the district composed of` the 
counties of Marion, Polk, Jasper, Dallas, and all the counties 
to the Missouri River, west, and to 
the State line on the north, and served two regular sessions, 
the Second and Third General 
Assembly of the State Legislature. He was elected Judge of 
the Fifth judicial district, and 
received the commission, was sworn into office, but 
immediately resigned the office,. and 
accepted the appointment of President Pierce of Receiver of 
Public Moneys for lands, subject to 
sale in this district, and, continued in this office until his 
resignation was accepted in the spring 
of 1857. He then formed a partnership with Gen. M. M. 
Crocker, and in 1859 J. S. Polk was 
taken into the firm, under the firm name of Casady, Crocker 
& Polk, which. continued until 
1861, when Gen. Crocker retired to enlist in the service of 
his country. In 1864 Judge Casady 
retired from the practice of law and. devoted his attention to 
his private business. In July, 1875, 
he organized the Des Moines Bank, of which he is president. 
Mr. Casady was married June 27, 
1848, to Miss Augusta Grimmel, a native of Ohio. By this 
union they have three children: Simon, 
Frank.and Rose (now Mrs. Henry). 
 
CASADY, SIMON-Cashier of the Des Moines Bank. . Is the 
son of P.M. and Augusta Casady, 
both of whom since 1846 have been residents of Des 
Moines. He was born on the 16th day of 
June, 1852. He commenced his banking experience in the 
National State Bank. In July, 1875, the 
 
DES 
MOINES                                                                              
783
Des Moines Bank was organized, and he was placed in 
charge as cashier, and has proved himself 
a courteous and safe financier for one so young in years. He 
was married Jane 1, 1880, to Miss S. 
C. Griffiths, daughter of J. M. Griffiths, also an early settler of 
Des Moines; and the subject of 
this sketch and his wife are the first couple married who 
were born and raised in this city. 
 
CATE, LESTER-Of the firm of Cate & Graham, transfer 
men. Was born May 3, 1830, and is a 
native of Sussexshire, England. He was raised on a farm, 
and when about twenty-two years of 
age went to London, and for five years was employed on the 
police force. About twenty-three 
years ago be came to this State and located in this city, and 
has been engaged in his preset 
business about eighteen years. He is the oldest one of his 
line in the city. He owns a fine farm in 
Walnut township, consisting of ninety-four acres. His 
marriage was in London, in August, 1855, 
to. Miss Amelia Merrill. She died, leaving one son: Stephen 
E. His second marriage was on the 
1st of January, 1863, to Miss M. A. King, a native of 
England. They have three daughters and 
one son: Jennie, William, Carrie, and Annie. 
 
CALLANAN, JAMES-Capitalist and dealer in real estate, is 
a native. of Albany county, New 
York, and was born on the 20th day of October, 1820. After 
a thorough preliminary education, he 
was admitted to the practice of law in 1847, and soon 
thereafter commenced the practice of his 
profession in Albany, New York, where he acquired a large 
and lucrative business. In 1857 he 
formed a co-partnership with S. V Ingham, and started the 
banking house of Callanan & Ingham, 
at Des Moines, Iowa, in which he had invested largely, Mr. 
Ingham being the resident manager. 
In 1861 this firm was dissolved, and the large investments 
made by Mr. Callanan and the large 
amount of real estate coming into his hands by reason of this 
change rendered it necessary for 
him to remove to Des Moines, in 1863, to personally 
supervise his interests. Since residing in 
Des Moines he has always taken an active and lively interest 
in its welfare, and has been 
identified with its leading business enterprises. To his 
individual effort and liberal donation is the 
foundation of Callanan College indebted. He married Miss 
Martha C. Coonley, of Albany 
county, New York, a lady whose graces of mind and person 
and whose active benevolence and 
kindly sympathies have endeared her to all who enjoy her 
acquaintance. 
 
CHAMBERLAIN, A. P.-Of the firm of Chamberlain & 
Harvison, attorneys at law. Was born in 
Scioto, county, Ohio, Dec.11,1852, and when five years of 
age he came with his parents to Iowa, 
locating in Story county. He was raised on a farm, enjoyed 
good educational advantages, and 
graduated from the Agricultural College at Ames. He 
attended the law school in this city, and 
was admitted to practice in 1876. He has been very 
successful and now enjoys a good practice. 
The present partnership was formed June 1, 1878. Mr. 
Chamberlain is also closely identified 
with the coal interests of this section of the country. 
 
CHRIST, GEORGE-Was born June 26, 1839, in Delaware 
county,. Ohio, where he resided until 
1854, when his parents removed to Clayton. county, Iowa, 
and there remained until 1864, when 
he came to Des Moines. During the war of the rebellion he 
offered his services to his country 
three different times, and was as often rejected, on account 
of disabilities. A portion of the time 
since residing in Des Moines he has been in the mercantile 
business. In 1871 he was appointed 
mail agent on the C., R. I. & 
 
784  BIOGRAPHICAL.
P. R. R., and held the position four years, running from 
Davenport to Council Bluffs, and two 
years from Omaha to Chicago. In April, 1876, he was 
appointed by the city council as marshal to 
fill out the unexpired term caused by the death of Mr. John 
Davis, and in March following, was 
elected to the same position, serving until March, 1878. In 
June, 1880; he was appointed mail 
agent on the road from Des Moines to Albia. Mr. C. has 
always taken an active part in politics, 
being a hard worker, and always being in demand in a 
political fight. At the Congressional 
convention held at Chariton, in June, 1880, he was elected 
unanimously as chairman of the 
Republican Congressional committee, a position admirably 
adapted to him. He was united in 
marriage in 1860, to Miss Mary C. Forney. They have six 
children: Amy, Lizzie, Charles E., 
Mary G., George, and Katie.