J. J. Graves, farmer, section 9, Pleasant Valley Township, postoffice Carroll, was born in Lafayette County, Wisconsin, August 12, 1848. His parents, Joseph and Mary (Fleming) Graves, were natives of Lancashire, England, who settled in Lafayette County in 1848, and were among the pioneers of that county. They had two children—Mary, now Mrs. Thomas Willey, and our subject. When the latter was six years of age his parents removed to Grant County, Wisconsin, where his youth was passed in assisting at farm work. He received his education in the common schools of Wisconsin. He was only nine years of age when his father died, and his mother died in 1875. He came to Carroll County in 1870, and purchased eighty acres of land, which is his present home. He has since added to that amount until he now owns 360 acres of excellent land. His fine residence was built in 1878. It is modern in style, and well furnished. His commodious barn, 40 x 48 feet, was built in 1882. He has a grove of five acres, and an orchard of two acres. The Graves farm is known as one of the best farms in the township. Mr. Graves was married December 6, 1872, to Miss Lovina Ramsey, of Glen Haven, Grant County, Wisconsin, daughter of Robert and Mary (McDonnel) Ramsey, formerly of Pennsylvania. The father died in January, 1872. Mr. and Mrs. Graves are the parents of six children—Eugene R., Carrie M., Ethel Inez, Alvin J., Sarah and Earl G. Mr. Graves is a Republican in politics, and has served several years as member of the school board. He has been financially very successful, having started in life without any means.

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