Abel Edwards was one of eleven children whose parents were Arthur and Freelove Clouse Edwards early pioneers of Decatur County, Iowa, who established homes in the early 1800's.

Abel, born in 1819, married Eliza J. Dowden. They had nine children: Lydia Edwards Hukill, Jennie Edwards Adams, Joseph H., Freeland E., Mary Edwards Kehler, Thomas P., John, Charles J. and Franklin P.

All grew to adulthood in the Grand River area receiving their education in rural schools. Thomas P., know to many as "Carpenter Tom," built many houses and barns in and around Grand River some of which are still standing. He also made many cement caves and sidewalks. John was the town barber for many years. Other brothers were farmers.

Tom married Margaret A. Hukill in 1887; and two sons were born to them, Albert L. (Bert) and Owen LeRoy. Albert L. died in 1968. His wife...... Owen LeRoy died in 1974. His wife....

Alvice Ramsey, eldest of six children and the son of Alexander and Sarah Jane Edwards Ramsey, was born on September 25, 1864. His parents came to Decatur County, Iowa in 1851 from Handcock County, Tenn.

Alvice's mother was twelve years of age when she traveled by covered wagon in company with relatives and friends to where they settled on the Long Creek in Richland Township. At the time of their settlement in Decatur County, it was sparingly settled by whites and yet the home of the Indians.

Alive taught schools in the rural schools of Decatur and Clarke Counties. Near the 1880's he operated the Green Valley General Store and Post Office in the Tennessee neighborhood west of Van Wert, Iowa. Later he farmed and then moved to Grand River.

Alvice was married to Mary C. Hart, February 20, 1895, daughter of Sam and Emmaline Hart. Six children were born to this union: Amy, Jud, Della and Nellie (twins), Floyd and Harley. All are deceased except Amy Edwards and Della Day. Mrs. Ramsey passed away February 15, 1957, at the age of 92 years.