BIOS: Polk County 1880 Jefferson Township Biographies, Polk County, Iowa ************************************************************************ USGENWEB ARCHIVES PROJECT 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. The submitter has given permission to the USGenWeb Archives to store the file permanently for free access. http://www.usgwarchives.net/ ************************************************************************ Permissions and Restrictions I have a copyright to these files and give permission for these files to be posted to any site that offers free access to all. Copying to any medium for the purpose of profit is strictly prohibited. This prohibition pertains to all photographs, text files, and graphics. 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. Polk Township Biographies Walnut, Bloomfield, Grant, Four Mile, Allen, Camp, Beaver, Clay, Delaware, Saylor, Valley, Webster, Jefferson, Crocker, Douglas, Franklin, Washington, Elkhart, Lincoln, Madison JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP. ANDREWS, NATHAN-Farmer and stock-raiser, section 10, P. O. Lincoln. Was born in New York, December 1st, 1815, and at the age of three years was taken by his parents to Indiana, where he was raised and educated. At the age of eighteen he commenced farming and stock raising. March 18, 1850, he came to this county, where he has since resided, owning fine farms, amounting in all to 1,052 acres. He was married in Indiana, April 8, 1838, to Miss Maria Cunningham. They had two children: Sarah J. (born February 8,1839, died December 11, 1860) and Naomi (born October 30, 1840, died August 5, 1841). He was married again February 25, 1833, to Miss Sarah M. Lyon. They have six children living: William (born October 1, 1857), Juliet (born August 28, 1859, Phebe A. (born March 22, 1863), George W. (born November 23, 1865), Flora (born October 8, 1868) and Samuel O. (born December 20, 1871). Have lost one, Lucy (born March 18, 1862, died April 2, 1862). BECK, JOSIAH C.-Farmer and stock-raiser, section 22, P. O. Lincoln. Was born in Indiana, September 17, 1826, and there received his education, after which he commenced farming, continuing the same until the fall of 1853. He then came to this county, where he has since re- 976 BIOGRAPHICAL. sided, owning a fine farm of 200 acres, nicely fenced, etc. His residence is well located and surrounded with fine young trees. He was married in Indiana, September 25, 1852, to Miss Cynthia A. McDowell. By this union they have fourteen children, of which eleven are living: John H., Eliza E., Anthony W., Sarah L., Ortha M., Jasper N., Josiah M., Palmer M., Flora B., Mary A., and Oscar 0. Lost three: William F., Ira M. and Oliva. BETZ, JOHN-Farmer, section 34, P. O. Ayres' Grove. Was born in Germany, October 20, 1815, and was there educated. After leaving school he followed the nursery business, in which he continued until 1850. He then emigrated to America, landing in New York, from which place he went to the State of Connecticut, remaining there about four months. He then went to Rochester, New York, and again engaged in the nursery, business, and in the fall of 1852 went to Indiana, continued his business, and in the fall of 1853 came to this county. He is the owner of 272-1/2 acres of improved land, upon which is a good residence. He was married in New York, October 27, 1853, to Miss Mary Beietermieller. She died October 16, 1872, leaving a family of four children: Louisa, John, Christian and Paul. Mrs. B. was a lady loved by all who knew her. Her kind manner and gentle disposition had won for her many friends. BISHOP, N.-Retired farmer, section 25, P.O. Ridgedale. Was born in Canada, March 3, 1807, and was there raised and educated. After leaving school he was engaged in running a saw mill, and in 1829 went to New York State and followed the same business. From there he went to Erie county, Pennsylvania, where he learned the carpenter's trade, and engaged in continuing the same until 1857, when he came to this county. He has since resided here, owning a fine farm of 171-1/2 acres, well improved. July 4, 1832, he was married in Quincy, New York, to Miss Mary Throop. They have two children living: Eliza and Sarah. Have lost three: George, Ada, Lavina and Sallie R. BOWMAN, J.-Farmer and stock-raiser, section 34, P. O. Des. Moines. Was born in Germany, December 19, 1821, and was there raised. After receiving his education he learned the weaver's trade, and followed the same until April, 1849, when he emigrated to America, landing in New York. From there he went to Cleveland, Ohio, and followed farming and weaving in that State, and in 1856 came to this county, where he still resides, owning a fine farm of 240 acres, well improved. He was married in Ohio, May 7, 1850, to Miss Barbara Glouse. They have a family of seven children: Jacob, Clara, Maggie, Mary, John, Kate and Christ. BYERS, J. M.-Farmer and stock-raiser, section 8, P. O. Lincoln. Was born in Pennsylvania; February 11, 1851, and was raised and educated. there. He learned the tanning business when young and for five years followed the same. After selling out his business he came to this county and has since resided here. He now owns a fine farm of 280 acres, fenced with wire and boards. His farm is one of the best for stock that is to be found in the county, having thereon four living springs. He was married in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, April 2, 1873, to Miss Armanda E. Sowers. By this union they have three children. Albert and Blanche, living, and one deceased. CARNEY, E. I. -Carpenter, Lincoln. Was born in Ohio, Oct. 15, 1838, and at the age of six years commenced his education. In the fall of 1854 he came to Cedar Rapids, this State, where he finished his educa- JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP. 977 tion, and in 1857 he commenced the carpenter's trade, which he still follows. During the late war he enlisted in the Seventeenth Iowa volunteers, and served until the close of the war, when he was honorably discharged, then returned to Cedar Rapids, and in the spring of 1875 he came to this county, where he still resides, owning a fine residence, and also four lots. He was married in Polk City, July 2, 1876, to Miss L. M. Hardway. By this union they have one child, William E. (born May 3, 1877). He is doing a good business and thoroughly understands his trade. CLARK, S. A.-Dealer-In dry goods and groceries, Lincoln. Was born in Indiana, May 26, 1845, and in the fall of 1855 he came to this county, where he was educated. After leaving school he engaged in farming, which he followed until the 7th of July, 1876, when, on account of ill health, he was obliged to stop. He then commenced in the mercantile business, which he still follows. In fall of 1875 he was elected township clerk and held that office for one term. He is the owner of a farm of 100 acres of well improved land. Mr. Clark has been twice married. First in Polk City, November 26, 1871, to Miss Mary Bynum, of California. Had, two children: Lillian G. (born December 25, 1873) and Louisa M. (born December 25, 1874. He married again in 1880, to Miss Mary McMullen. CLARK, JOHN-Farmer, section 33, P. O. Ayres' Grove. Was born in Ireland, March 15,1850, and was there raised and educated. In June,1864, he emigrated to the United States, and after landing in New York came to Muscatine county, this State, where he was engaged in farming. In the fall of 1869 he moved to this county and is the owner of a fine farm consisting of 160 acres of well-improved land. His residence is well located and his grounds embellished by fine shade trees. CONWAY, T. L.-Farmer, section 15, P. O. Lincoln. Was born in Henry county, Indiana, April 12, 1846, and was educated in Newcastle Academy. After leaving school he commenced teaching, and followed that as an occupation until the fall of 1862, when he came to this county, and here engaged in both teaching and farming. He has a farm of ninety acres, well fenced, with rails. In the fall of 1878 he was elected township clerk, and held that office for one term. He was married in this county October 1, 1864, to Miss Mary Elliott. They have two, children: Arthur (born July 22, 1865) and Nettie M. (born August 30, 1869). COSTELLO, M. B.-Farmer, section 27, P. O. Ayres' Grove. Was born in Ireland, November 15, 1844, and when young emigrated with his parents to the United States, landing in New York City. He moved to Rondout, New York, and from there to Lockport, same State, and at the latter place obtained his education. After leaving school he went to Colorado and became engaged in mining, which he followed until 1855, then came to this county, and has made it his home ever since, now owning a fine and well improved farm of 120 acres. On the 2nd of February, 1868, he was married in Madison county, Iowa, to Miss Anna Kirby. They have six children living: William F., Emma, Augusta E., James H., Anna and John L. Have lost one daughter, Mary. COX, W. B.-Blacksmith, Lincoln. Was born in Kentucky, on the 12th day of November, 1851, and when two years of age moved with his parents to Iowa, locating in Linn county. From there he moved to Monroe county and there received his education. When young he learned the miller's trade and followed the same for four years, when he began the trade of blacksmith and has since followed it as an occupation, Although a young 978 BIOGRAPHICAL. man he has a thorough knowledge of his business and is very successful at it. He was married in this county, May 11, 1878, to Miss Minerva A. Madison. DAVIS, JOHN-Farmer, section 33, P. O. Ayres' Grove. Was born in Pennsylvania, September 12, 1826, and in the fall of 1831 moved with his parents to Indiana, and was there educated. He commenced farming, and in the spring of 1856 he went to Greene county, Iowa, where he, continued farming, and in the spring of 1863 went to Jasper county, Iowa. He came to this county and now owns a farm of 180 acres. He was married in Clinton, Indiana, October 22, 1848, to Miss Sarah J. Vice. Their family consists of seven children: Mary E., Nancy J., Martin J., Anna R., John P., Hester E. and Ella E. He married again, April 20, 1863, to Miss Mary F. Brown. They have three children: Margaret V., Rosella and Jessie. DRAKE, W. H.-Farmer, section 15, P. O. Lincoln. Was born in New Jersey, April 9, 1843, and there received his education, after which he commenced farming, and followed the same until the spring of 1863. He then moved to Henry county, Indiana, where he continued farming and in the fall of 1864 he enlisted in company H, One Hundred and Fortieth Indiana volunteers, serving until the close of the war, when he was honorably discharged. He returned to Indiana, and in the spring of 1868 he came to this county, and now owns a farm of ninety acres, improved. He has a good residence, etc. March 16, 1872, he was married in Polk county, to Miss Minneta Elliott. By this union they had one child, which is now deceased. ELIFRITS, A.-Farmer, section 6, P. O. Lincoln. Was born in Indiana, February 10, 1846, and when eight years of age went to Illinois; remaining there for two years, then returned to Indiana. And in the fall of 1856 he came to this county, where he still resides, owning two hundred and forty-six acres of land, under fence and well-improved. During the late war he enlisted in company B, Fifteenth Iowa infantry, and after serving his country. for eighteen months, was honorably discharged. He was married in this county on the tenth of March, 1871, to Miss Sarah E. Cox. They have lost three children: Nora B. (born August 29, 1875, died December 30, 1878), Abram A. (born July 18, 1877, died December 31, 1878), and an infant (born September '20, 1874, died November 21, 1874). EWING, J. F.-Farmer, section 8, P. O. Lincoln. Was born in this county, Delaware township, on the eighteenth of June, 1855, and after leaving school he commenced farming , which he still continues, owning a fine farm of forty acres of improve land, nicely fenced with rails and boards. In 1878 he learned the shoemaker's trade, and has followed that with farming up to the present time. Being a practical workman he commands a good business; although a young man he has a bright future before him. EWING, S. O.-Dry goods and groceries, Lincoln. Was born in Indiana, September 25, 1845, and at the age of five years came with his parents to Polk county, where he still resides. He was educated in the common schools, and at the age of sixteen commenced farming, following the same until the fall of 1879; he then engaged in the mercantile business. He has a fine stock in his line, and as a man is respected by all. March 15, 1880, he was appointed assistant postmaster. In the fall of 1878 was JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP 979 elected trustee, and still holds that office. He was married on the twenty-first of February, 1875, to Miss Emma Elliott, who was born in this State,. May 5, 1856. They, have one child, Guy born September 30, 1878. FINLEY, J. C.-Farmer, section 33, P.O. Ayres' Grove. Was born in this county on the seventeenth of September, 1853, and here he has been raised and educated. Has followed farming all his life. His father, Johnathan Finley, was born November 37, 1827. On the eighteenth of October, 1848, he was married in Ohio, to Miss Mary S. Ayres. They had eight children, of whom six are living: May S., Elizabeth, John C., Mary K., James O., Amanda, J. and Frank L. Adaline F. and Florence M. are deceased. Mr. Finley died February 4, 1870, in the forty-fourth year of his age. FRAIZER, NATHAN-Teacher, section 17, P. O. Lincoln. Was born in Henry county, Indiana, September 7, 1846, and was raised there, following farming until 1868. His education was received in the common schools of that county, supplemented by a course at Antioch College, Ohio. He returned to Indiana, and from there came to his present location in 1868. He engaged in agricultural pursuits but for the last two years has followed teaching. Is the present incumbent of the office of township clerk. He was married in his native county January 20, 1877, to Miss Elizabeth Waters, a native of the same county. They have two sons and two daughters living: Orre, Harry, Warren and Cora. His ancestry, on his father's side, were natives of the Southern States, and on his mother's side of North Carolina. GRANGER, B. F.-Farmer and stock-raiser, section 31, P. O. Ayres' Grove. Was born in New York, August 7, 1835, and made that place his home until 1856, when he came to Iowa and located at Fort Dodge. He was educated in the common schools, and after coming to this State, commenced farming and stock-raising, and continued the same until the fall of 1870, when he came to this county. He owns one hundred and twenty- two and a half acres of land, with a fine stream of water running through it. He is also very extensively engaged in stock dealing, and in connection with farming has been quite successful. He was married February 7, 1855, to Miss Calista Rood. Their family consists of one child, Jessie E. (born March 22, 1858). GREFE, CHARLES A.-Farmer, section 35, P. O. Des Moines. Was born in Germany, April 30, 1824, where he was raised, receiving his education in the schools of his commonwealth. He learned the baker's trade and followed that until 1848, when he emigrated to America, landing in Baltimore. From there he went to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and thence to Cincinnati, Ohio, where he continued to follow his trade. He went to St. Louis, and in 1850 returned to Pittsburgh, where he opened a bakery, following that until 1862, when he went to Minnesota. He there commenced farming, and in 1869 came to this county, engaging in farming. He was married in Pennsylvania, March 26, 1859, to Miss Emma Gerboth. Their family consists of eight children: Bertie, Anna, Louisa, Albert, Gusta, Henry, Ernest and Otto. GREGORY, J. W.-Farmer, section 16, P. O. Lincoln. Was born in Indiana, March 13, 1847, and when three years of age came with his guardian, Mr. A. Andrews, to this county. He was educated in the common schools until eighteen years of age, when he engaged in farming, and still follows the same, owning a fine farm of one hundred and twenty acres of 980 BIOGRAPHICAL. well-improved land, nicely fenced. He was married in this county September 16, 1866, to Miss Ruth A. Andrews. By this union they have six children: William A., Mary R., Eva M., Bessie A. and Eliza M. living; and Homer L. deceased. HART, W. H.-Farmer, section 32, P. 0. Ayres' Grove. Was born in Ohio, August 27, 1855, and moved with his parents to Jasper county, this State, when only five years of age. After receiving an education he commenced farming, and followed the same until 1870, when he came to this county, and has since followed that business. Although a young man he has few equals in the management of his farm, and he is respected by all. Was married in Des Moines, December 25, 1875, to Miss Emma Porter. They have two children: Mary and Rosa. HUNT, SAMUEL-Farmer and stock-raiser, section 25, P. O. Ridgedale. Was born in Fleming county, Kentucky, December 16, 1824, and was there educated. After leaving school he commenced farming, and continued the same until 1846, when he came with his parents to this county. Here he became extensively engaged in rail-making, and followed that business until the fall of 1851, and then commenced farming. In the spring of 1860, he commenced shingle making, and also operated a large saw mill. In 1862, he became largely engaged in stock-raising. Has a fine farm of 300 acres. . January 7, 1856, he was married, in this county, to Miss Susan Murray. They have eight children: Mary G. (born August 14, 1857), Sarah L. (born October 22, 1859), Thomas E. (born June 5, 1862), Willie N. (born June 24, 1864), Eddie B. (born December 13, 1866), Emma O. (born April 7, 1868), Theresa L. (born February 18, 1872) and Blanchil E. (born November 30, 1875). Mr. and Mrs. Hunt being among the first settlers in the county, can recount many hardships and trials that they necessarily had to endure, hardships, that at the present day, would be almost unendurable. They came to Polk county, when the county, so far as inhabitants were concerned, were very few, and far between. They have resided here since, and it is with a treat degree of interest that they now recall their early experience: To such as Mr. and Mrs. Hunt, who stood the brunt of pioneer life, and largely helped to develop the resources of the new country, are the rising generation indebted. And it is but just to these old pioneers that their names should go on record, and be handed down to posterity; but a few more years shall elapse when they will be gathered to their reward. JOHNSON, R. G.-Farmer, section 25, P. O. Ridgedale. Was born in Indiana, March 13, 1838, and was raised and educated there. During the late war, he enlisted in company A, Forty-sixth Indiana infantry, and served for three years, when he was honorably discharged. He returned to Indiana, and commenced farming and engineering, and continued the .same until July, 1876, when he came to this county. He has followed farming most of his life, and now owns a good farm. Was married in Madison county, Indiana, September 1,1864, to Martha R. Layton. By this union they have nine children: Charles M., Emma J., Robert C., Daisy A., Harry, Williard, Andy, Alvan and Calvin. LAYTON, J.-Farmer, section 17, P. O. Lincoln. Was born in Indiana, December 12, 1831, and at the age of twelve years, commenced farming, which he continued until the fall of 1852. He then emigrated to Greene county, this State, where he engaged in the lumber business, and in 1858, came to this county, and now owns a fine farm of eighty acres. JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP. 981 In the fall of 1859, he commenced running a saw mill, and continued in that busines until 1870. He was elected school director, in March, 1878, ,and held that office for one year. He was married in this county, November 15,1860, to Miss Julia A. Clark. By this union, they have five children: George W. (born February 19, 1863), Mary F. (born November 17, 1865), William (born October 3, 1867), Ora N. (born July 13, 1871) and Minnie M. (born February 11, 1874). Mr. Layton became a member of the Christian church, November 11, 1874. He is a man always willing to help a cause worthy of consideration. McCLAIN, J. D.-Farmer, section 24, P. O. Ridgedale. Was born in Virginia, October 10, 1810; at the age of six years, he commenced school, continuing the same until the age of eighteen. In 1831, he went to West Virginia, where he learned the boat- building trade, and followed that until November 8, 1845, when he came to Iowa, locating in Henry county. He there followed farming, and in March, 1851, he came to this county, where he has since resided. He was appointed. deputy assessor of the county, in 1852, and held that office one term. In 1853, he was appointed justice of the peace, by Judge Rice. That position he filled until 1874, when he resigned, on account of ill health. In 1876, he was again elected to the same office, and served until 1878, and for the same reason as before, declined to take said office. He has also been township clerk and assessor. He was married in Braxton county, Virginia, January 10, 1836, to Miss Olive Wilson. They have a family of nine children living: Martha J., Mary E., John S., Silas W., Jacob P., Thomas A., Shelton N. Amanda V. and Henry C. Have lost three: William A., Mildred C. and Sarah E. Mr. McClain's farm consists of 255 acres of well- improved land. McCLAIN, T. A.-Farmer and stock-raiser, section 26, P. O. Ridgedale Was born in Nelson county, Virginia, December 4, 1824, and was there educated. After leaving school, he followed farming until the fall of 1841, when he went to West Virginia, where he became extensively engaged in the lumber business and also in building flat- boats. He continued herein until June, 1846, when he came to this county, where he still resides, owning a fine farm of 260 acres, well improved and nicely fenced with rails. In May, 1847, he enlisted in the Mexican War, in company F, 2nd Illinois volunteers, and served until the close of the war, when he was honorably discharged. He was married in this county, January 27, 1853, to Miss Mary J. Duncan. Their family consists of nine children living: Alice E. (born November 9, 1856), Lucy H. (born February 2, 1859), William A. (born February 8, 1861), May O. (born June 13, 1863), Daisy A. born August 10, 1867), Thomas J. (born August 11, 1869), Charlie born August 27, 1872), Walter (born January 17, 1875) and Gracie E. (born January 1,1880. Have lost two: Winfield S. (born January 28,1854, died November 7, 1854), and Henry (born October 5, 1855, died November 27, 1855. McCLAIN, S. W.-Farmer, section 20, P. O. Lincoln. Was born December 2, 1848, and is a native of Virginia. When very young he came with his parents to this state, and here received his education, after which, he engaged in farming. In the spring of 1851, he came to this county, and is now the owner of 280 acres of improved land, all under fence. December 11, 1870, he was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth S. Coburn, by which union they have a family of five children living: Blanche R., 982 BIOGRAPHICAL. Beulah M., Mary O., Silas A. and one not named. One son, William A., is deceased. MITCHELL, JOHN P.-Carpenter, section 23, P. O. Lincoln. Is a native of Linn county, this State, and was born on the 2nd day of February, 1841. He was there educated and raised, and when quite young, commenced farming, following the same until 1875. He then engaged in the trade of carpenter, and has followed the same since. In 1861, he became a resident of Polk county, and has since made it his home. He was married to Miss Matilda Baker. Their family consists of one child, Charlie. MOLLISON, WILLIAM-Farmer, section 36, P. O. Ridgedale. Was born in Scotland, May 24, 1831, and when young, he learned the boot and shoe trade, which he followed until June, 1854. He then emigrated to America, landing at Quebec, Canada, and from there went to Jo Daviess county, Illinois, there followed his trade, and also engaged in farming. In the fall of 1855, he went to California and engaged in gold mining, and in 1861, returned to the land of his birth. In the spring of 1862, he again engaged in mining in California, and in the summer of 1863, he went to Idaho and followed the same business, and in 1866, during the fall, he again returned to California, and from there he went to Providence, Rhode Island. In the spring of 1867, he crossed the plains to Montana, and resided there for one year, when he came to Dallas county, this State, and bought a farm of 100 acre, improved it, and in 1871, he sold the same. In 1874, he came to this county and now owns a fine farm of eighty-five acres. He was married in California, December 30, 1862, to Miss Anna Briggs. MURRAY, JOSEPH-Farmer and-stock-raiser, section 4, P.O. Lincoln. Was born in Henry county, Indiana, December 12, 1848, and in the fall of 1852, came with his parents to this county. He owns a farm of 190 acres of land. He was married in this county, April 13, 1871, to Miss Sarah Houser. They have three children: Ollie (born March 9, 1872), Ora (born September 22, 1874) and Earl (born December 22, 1876). Thomas Murray, the father of the above, was born in North Carolina, October 19, 1806, and there received his education. He began life as a farmer, and followed farming as an occupation through the most of his life. Being a good business man, he became one of the most popular men in his township. He was married in North Carolina, November 8, 1827, to Miss Sally Nicholson. By this union they had seventeen children: Mary J., Larkin, Susan, Nancy E., John, Joseph, Afred H., Luther T. and William A., living; and eight deceased: Elizabeth, Zadock H., Sarah A., Thomas, Andrew, Martha L., Robert N. and Martha. MURRAY, JOHN-Farmer and stock-raiser, section 14, P. O. Lincoln. Was born in Indiana, July 15, 1845, and in 1853 he came to this county, where he received his education. After leaving school he commenced farming, and still follows the same. He has a fine farm of forty-two acres of well-improved land, nicely fenced. April 5, 1866, he was married in Des Moines to Miss S. J. Russell. They have four children: Ella D., Everett R., Ida P. and Frank L. NIXON, WILLIAM-Farmer, section 5, P. O. Lincoln. Was born in Ireland, and when 16 years old commenced farming. In 1858 he emigrated to the United States, landing in New York. From there he went to Canada and engaged in farming, and in the spring of 1860 he went to Vermont and continued his occupation. In 1863 he went to Massachusetts, and in 1866 came to this county, where he has since resided, owning a fine JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP. 983 farm of 184 acres. July 4, 1861, he was married in New York State to Miss Catharine Admond. They have six children: Willie, John, Maggie, Mary, David and Catharine. Mr. Nixon is a thorough farmer and a man of large enterprise. PARRIOTT, A. H.-Farmer, section 28, P. 0. Lincoln. Was born in Virginia, October 22, 1826, and in the spring of 1830, moved with his parents to Indiana, where he received his education. He farmed for some time and in the spring of 1846 he became engaged in the mercantile business, following that trade until the spring of 1848. He again engaged in farming until the fall of 1849, when he started in the hotel business. In 1864 (spring) he came to this county and now owns a farm of eighty acres. July25, 1850, he was married to Miss Sarah Hall. By this union they have six children: Celia A., Wilford H., Wallace A., Charles C., Eddie C. and Robert P. RITTGERS, J. R.-Farmer, section 36, P. O. Ridgedale. Was born in Hardin county, Ohio, October 13, 1835, there being raised and educated. In the spring of 1853 he came to this county and still resides here, owning a fine farm of 243 acres, well improved and nicely fenced. He was married in this township, July 18, 1869, to Mary F. Whipps. By this union they have one child, Martin L. SCOVEL, A. S.-Farmer, section 28, P. O. Ayres' Grove. Is a native of New York and was born on the 17th of May, 1822. He was raised and educated there and in March, 1842, he came to Burlington, this State, and there followed the carpenter's trade with his father until 1849. Then went to Illinois and engaged in farming and in 1853 returned to this State and to Fort Dodge and pursued his latter occupation. In 1866 he came to this county and has since resided here, owning a fine farm of 165 acres well improved. He married in Van Buren county, this State, January 10, 1847, to Miss Johanna Knight. They have three children living: Joe B., Emma R. and Addie S. Lost one, Judith F. SHAFER, HERMAN-Farmer, section 17, P. O. Lincoln. Was born in Ohio, April 11, 1844, and at the age of four years accompanied his parents to Wisconsin and was there raised and educated. He engaged in farming and in, the fall of 1861 he came to Iowa, locating in Delaware county. He remained there until the fall of 1861 and then went to Missouri, where he continued his former avocation, and in October of 1874 he came to this county and is the owner of 129 acres of land. In 1864 he enlisted in company F, Sixteenth Iowa, and served until the close of the war, when he was honorably discharged. He was married in Delaware county, Iowa, October 7, 1868, to Miss Augusta A. Hotchkiss. They have three children: Herbert E., Bertha E. and Martha. SHIDELER, A. B.-Physician and surgeon, Lincoln. Was born in Indiana, December 15, 1851, and when two years of age was taken by his parents to Dallas county, this State, and received his education there and at the Iowa Agricultural College. He then commenced teaching and followed the same for about seven years. In the summer of 1875 he commenced the study of medicine with Dr. Brookings, of Dallas county, Iowa, with whom, and under whose teaching, he became one of the most promising young physicians in this part of the country. In August, 1877, he came to Lincoln, where he now resides. Although almost a stranger he has made many warm and true friends and is getting a good practice. He was married in this county, August 30, 1877, to Miss Sarah E. Frazier. They have 984 BIOGRAPHICAL. one daughter, Katie (born May 13, 1879). Mr. S. is yet a young man and has a brilliant career before him. SMITH, THOMAS-Farmer, section 34, P. O. Ayres' Grove. Was born in Ireland, July 15, 1852, and there obtained an education. In the spring of 1869 he emigrated to the United States, landing in New York, and from there went to Grinnell, Iowa, where he obtained a position on the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad. After remaining there for four and one-half years he came to this county and now owns a farm of 120 acres, nicely fenced. Mr. Smith is one of the successful young farmers of Polk county and his success is attributable to his energy and perseverance. STANFORD, MILES-Farmer and stock-raiser, section 10, P. O. Lincoln. Was born in Henry county, Indiana, November 29, 1828, and there received his education. When twenty years of age he commenced farming, following the same until the fall of 1853. He then came to this county and now owns a fine farm of 220 acres. Was married in Indiana, January 30, 1850, to Miss Charlotte Richardson, of that State. She was born July 10, 1829. They had six children, of whom five are living: Martha J. (born November 22, 1851), Erastus C. (born April 2, 1853), Hannah E. (born October 27, 1854), Mary J. (born October 21, 1856) and Lena F. (born August 14, 1863). One, James O., is deceased. He was born November 17, 1858, and died February 8, 1866. Mrs. Stanford died January 11, 1866, and he married again in this county, September 25, 1872, Miss Elizabeth Ladd, who was born in Wayne county, Indiana, November 24, 1839. They have one child, Alma E. (born July 18,1874). STEWART, SAMUEL-Farmer and stock-raiser, section 31, P. O. -Ayres' Grove. Was born in Canada, January 13, 1835, and resided there until ten years of age. He then moved with his parents to Illinois and after a time engaged in farming and stock-raising, continuing the same until March, 1869. He. then came to this county and now owns a farm of 255 acres, well improved. He was married in Illinois, November 28, 1856, to Miss Ellen Graham. They have nine children: William J., Samuel J., Allen H., Emma E., Raymond G., Charlie E., George D., Willard C. and Lucy E. STROUD, JOHN-Farmer, section 28, P. O. Ayres' Grove. Was born in England, April 15, 1837. He received the most of his schooling there and in 1847 emigrated to America, landing in New York, from which place he went to Canada. Resided there for two years and then went to Niagara county, New York, finishing his education there. Then commenced farming, which he followed until the fall of 1857, when he moved to Porter county, Indiana, and there continued farming. In 1861 he enlisted in company C, Fifteenth Indiana volunteers, and remained in service about two years. He was honorably discharged and after that returned to Indiana, where he remained until the spring of 1865, then coming to Iowa. He owns eighty acres of improved land. January 20, 1863, he was married in Indiana, to Miss Clara Church. Their family consists of six children: John, Mary M., William H. and Charlotte A., living, and two deceased: Frederick and an infant. SWAN, CHARLES-Physician, Lincoln. Was born in Oxford county, Maine, September 23, 1839, and when five years of age commenced school, finishing his education at Fryburg Institute, that State, graduating from that institution with high honors. Soon after he commenced the study of law with Augustus Strout, and in 1862 with Dr. Jennis, and remained with JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP. 985 him about one year, when he went to Washington, D. C., where he got employment as surveyor in the United States Government corps, continuing in that position for one year. In the fall of 1863 he came to Iowa, locating in Muscatine county, where he was engaged in the fruit tree business, and followed that for about two years. On account of ill health he returned to his native State, but soon came again to Muscatine county, and continued in his former business. In the fall of 1868 he went to Maine, remaining there until the fall of 18'70, when he came to this county. He here became engaged in the insurance business, and one year later went to Winterset, Madison county, where he commenced the study of medicine with Dr. John Cooper, staying with him about two years, then to Dallas Center, and commenced the practice of his profession, and in the fall of 1876 came to this county. August 26, 1864, he was married to Miss Julia E. N. Leonard. By this union they have four children: Mary E., Ella D., George T. and Charles A. TEMPLE, JOHN-Farmer and stock-raiser, section 14, P. O. Lincoln. Was born June 30, 1817, and is a native of Yorkshire, England. At the age of twelve years he went onboard of a coasting vessel as cabin-boy and followed the sea for two years, when he gave up his position and commenced farming, continuing the same until the spring of 1832, when he moved to Quebec, Canada. From there he went to Lockport, New York, tended lock on Erie Canal, and also was bowsman, and continued in that position until the fall of 1845, when he went to Illinois, farming therefore one year. Then tended lock on Illinois and Michigan Canal. In 1854 he came to this State and settled in Dallas county, where he engaged in stock- raising, following the same until 1865. He then came to this county. Owns a farm of 950 acres of well-improved land. He was married in Lockport, New York, September 15, 1844, to Miss Eliza Day. Had four children: William, Adams, George and Frank. Lost one, John. He married for his second wife Miss Tabitha West. They have nine children: John, Charlie, Fred., Edward, James, Claude, Nellie M., Hannah and Daniel B. THOMPSON, LUTHER-Dry goods and groceries, Lincoln. Was born in Wapello county, this State, September 13, 1850, and there received his education. When eighteen years of age he commenced farming and stock raising and followed the same until the fall of 1879, when he engaged in the mercantile business and has since followed that trade. He is yet a young man but is honored highly by all his acquaintances and thoroughly understands his business. He was married in this State, March 30, 1876, to Miss Ora M. Spicey. They have two children: Francis (born January 27, 1877),, and Estella (born February 19, 1879). TOWNER, J. W.-Proprietor of Towner's Lake, section 20, P. O.. Towner's Lake. The subject of this sketch owes his nativity to Canada.. where he was born on the 25th of March, 1834. After obtaining his education he became engaged in the mercantile business, which he followed until 1852, then went to Melbourne, Australia, where he was engaged in mining and also the commission business until 1859, when he returned to his place of birth. He there continued the mercantile business and in 1861 removed to Illinois, remaining there two years, when he went to St. Louis. For two years he was employed in the dry goods and notion firm of H. T. Simon & Gregory, after which he took up his residence in Huntsville, Alabama. He there followed his former occupation until 1871, when 986 BIOGRAPHICAL. he returned to St. Louis and obtained employment in his old firm as traveling salesman. In 1874 he came to this county and has since made it his home. His place is one of the best in the county, and the lake, which bears his name, is a delightful summer resort. Boats may be had and the fishing is excellent, as the lake is well supplied with black bass, salmon. trout, California salmon, horned trout and various other varieties. His residence is well located, commanding a good view of the country around. His marriage was in New York State, June 28, 1865, to Miss Mary E. Foster. As the result of this union they have one son, Herbert St. John, (born June 4, 1867). WEST, F. A.-Farmer, section 32, P. O. Ayres' Grove. Was born in New York, December 9, 1818, and at the age of twelve years emigrated with his parents to Michigan, where he obtained his education. After leaving school he commenced farming and continued therein until 1869, when he came to this county and has since made it his home. He owns seventy-eight acres of land; has a good residence with a fine location. June 30, 1847, he was married in Michigan to Miss Lydia H. Corliss. They have four children: Adelbert (born June 3, 1848), Addison (born September 15, 1850), Frederick (born June 20, 1857), Charles P. (born April 22, 1859). Have lost one son, Egbert (born April 22, 1859, died October 24, 1860). WHITE, J. A.-Farmer and stock-raiser, section 36, P. O. Ridgedale. Was born in Ohio, October 21, 1836, and at the age of five years commenced school. He finished his education in the high school at Warren, Ohio, after which he became engaged in the lumber business, following it until 1856. He then came to Oskaloosa, Iowa, where he continued the lumber business and putting up saw mills, and remained there until July, 1857, when he came to this county. In the fall of 1858 he commenced farming and followed that for about one year, when he again became engaged in the lumber business. In 1864 he returned to the occupation of farming and in the spring of 1866 came to Jefferson township, where he owns a farm of 280 acres of improved land. He is also largely engaged in feeding stock. He was married in Dallas county, Iowa, December 7, 1858, to Miss Florida Boone. They have a family of six children: William N. (born September 4, 1859), Georgie (born September 24, 1861 , Jessie O. (born March 6,1864), Cora N. , (born December 30, 1869), Susie N. (born June 12, 1871 and May (born February 3, 1874). Lost one daughter, E. Joetta born January 21, 1866, died July 23, 1879). Mr. White is a man of good business qualifications .and an excellent farmer. E. Joetta White, daughter of the above sketch, on the evening of July 23, 1879, with a party of eight young ladies and children, was bathing in the Des Moines river, eleven miles north of Des Moines. There never was a happier company. As none could swim the intention was to keep in shallow water, three of the young ladies were wading down the stream, they had just been singing "Gently down the stream of time floats my bark toward the sea," when suddenly they stepped into a hole fifteen feet deep. All were nearly downed, and for one "the stream of time" was shortened to a step, and her frail bark floated off alone to the sea of eternity. It seems that the banks of the river could never cease echoing her name, so long, and loud, and pitifully was it shouted by the stricken sisters and friends of the party. All night men searched the river, and in the morning about seven o'clock found her body half a mile below the place where her lovely form first disappeared, as beautiful in CROCKER TOWNSHIP. 987 death as she had been in life. On Friday morning, July 25, her bereaved parents and a large company of relatives and friends laid her to rest in a quiet little grave on the hill near her home. Thus closed the short but beautiful life of a bright young lady, as pure as an angel and as lovely as a flower. She was only thirteen years old, but her womanly dignity, reserve, judgment and modesty, made her old beyond her years. She is as widely mourned as she was known and loved, and her life, though short, will exert a lasting influence for good over all who remember the pure, unselfish character of Joetta White. WILLIAMS, PATRICK-Farmer, section 30, P. O. Lincoln. Was born in Ireland, December 18, 1837, and was there educated. In 1853, he went to England where he commenced farming, and followed the same until the fall of 1859, when he came to this country, landing in New York. He went from there to Vermont and followed his occupation, and in the fall of 1867 he came to this county, where he has since resided, owning a fine farm of fifty acres, improved. He was married in Vermont, January 10, 1861, to Miss Johanna Mullins. They have a family of six children living: Margaret, Ja