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W[illiam]. E[llis]. FRY, owns and operates a well-improved farm of two hundred and forty acres, lying in Eden, Benton and Canton townships, the residence being built in Benton township. He was born on the home farm in Canton township, September 22, 1859, son of William Fry, given mention at length elsewhere in this work.
Mr. Fry was reared and has always resided at or near his birthplace. He attended the public school, the Vinton high school, Blairstown Academy and the Normal Business College at Valparaiso, Indiana. Afterward he learned the trade of carpenter from his father, which he has followed in connection with farming. He first purchased one hundred and sixty acres, which he was able to pay for in less than twenty-five years, and has added to it as circumstances would permit. He has made all modern improvements on the farm, and keeps it in first-class condition. He has achieved success by his energy and thrift, and is well known and respected in the community. Politically Mr. Fry is a Republican, as are all his family; he has served as clerk, assessor and trustee of his township, and is now trustee. He belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America, of Vinton.
Mr. Fry was married to Martha Ellen, daughter of D. Leamer, also a pioneer of Benton county; she was also born in Benton county, where she has lived all her life, in the same vicinity as her husband. They have four children, namely: Bertha L., graduate of Tilford Academy, a teacher and residing at home; Murl D., a graduate of Tilford Academy, now attending business college in Cedar Rapids; Esther B., attending high school in Vinton; and Leland A., at home.
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