Rufus L. Brooks, who passed away November 23, 1893, at the age of fifty eight years, had been a prominent and influential resident of Manchester for nearly a quarter of a century. He was born in Otsego county, New York, on the 5th of August, 1835, a son of Seth Brooks and a grandson of the Brooks who took an active part in the famous Boston Tea Party of December 16, 1773. The latter was a graduate of Yale University under Continental rule and is mentioned in Webster's speech on the battle of Bunker Hill.

     Rufus L. Brooks acquired his education in Ithaca, New York, and when about twenty years of age started out in life for himself.  He secured a position with a railroad and when the road had been built to Mount Vernon, Iowa, was engaged as station agent and telegrapher there. He then went to Buffalo, New York, where he studied law for a time. He then accepted a position as representative of a big New York wholesale house and resided ar Freeport, Illinois. In 1870 he came to Manchester, Iowa, where he resided continuously throughout the remainder of his life. He was here identified with financial interests as one of the directors of the Delaware County State Bank and enjoyed an enviable reputation in business circles.

     On the 24th of November, 1861, Mr. brooks was united in marriage at Mount Vernon, Iowa, to Miss Lodoiska C. Holcomb, a daughter of Samuel B. and Maria (Alexander) Holcomb and a granddaughter of the well known Dr. Alexander of Philadelphia. Our subject and his wife had one son, Eugene, who died in infancy.

     Mr. Brooks gave his political allegiance to the republican party and took a deep and helpful interest in public affairs. His religious Faith was indicated by his membership in the Congregational church, in the work of which he took an active part. His demise was the occasion of deep and widespread regret, for he had won the friendship and regard of all with whom he had been associated. Mrs. Brooks is also well known and highly esteemed in Manchester, having made her home here throughout the past forty four years. She was instrumental in establishing the first library of Manchester and also organized the local "Thirteen Club."