John W. Fleming

FLEMING, WILLS

Posted By: Jeanie
Date: 5/17/2005 at 19:04:21

John W. Fleming.

John W. Fleming was born in Mitlin, County Pennsylvania January 12th, 1837. His parents were John and Mary (Wills) Flemings natives of that State. They were poor yet rich in faith and in their intercourse with the world ever endeavored to observe the golden rule. His father was a farmer, and when John was but 18 years of age he left home that he might learn the carpenter and cabinet business. For a number of years he followed his chosen trade acquiring considerable skill in the work.

His education was limited to that of common schools; poverty was the obstacle that prevented him from becoming an eminent scholar. John was not that kind to yield to trifles but improved every spare moment in acquiring knowledge.

On February 15th, 1866, Mr. Fleming was married to Miss Jane E. Fleming, his cousin, and in a short time after marriage moved to this County, settling on land belonging to his father in Grant township, where he remained until after the death of his father, May 25th, 1868, when he removed to Buckingham township settling upon a farm formerly occupied by P. Wilbur, near the town of Traer. He is well known to all residents of the County especially the older settlers, and enjoys the respect and confidence of all alike. Like the rest of the family, in politics, he is a Democrat of the old school, the principles of that party are dear to him. Although never attaining any special prominence in political affairs, yet Mr. Fleming has been chosen at different times to represent his community as Supervisor, and other offices within the township. In every position he has endeavored to perform his duty faithfully.

From the History of Tama County, Iowa. by Samuel D. Chapman. Printed at the Toledo Times Office. 1879. Page 160 and 161.