SAMUEL R. HAINES, residing on section 26, Trenton Township, Henry Co., Iowa, is a native of Champaign County, Ohio, born March 13, 1831, and is a son of Job and Mary (Black) Haines, the former a native of New Jersey, and the latter of Pennsylvania. They were pioneer settlers of this county, locating on a rented farm in Tippecanoe Township in 1838, where they remained for two years. Job Haines entered a farm of 160 acres on section 26, Trenton Township, where he made his home until his death, which occurred in the winter of 1856, when sixty-one years of age. At his death he owned 230 acres of land. He was a man who took great interest in political affairs. He and his wife were both members of the Methodist Protestant Church. She died in December, 1864. They a reared a family of eleven children, all of whom yet live: Charity, wife of Allen Jay, now in the Indian Territory; Mary Jane, wife of Joseph Jay, a resident of Trenton Township; Joseph, of Mills County, Iowa, is a farmer; our subject; James, now living in Mills County, Iowa; Elizabeth, wife of Mell Petty, now a resident of Dakota; Sarah, wife of Obed Ward, resides in Dakota; Barbara Ellen, wife of Arthur Clarkson, of Mills County, Iowa; Jonathan, also a resident of Milles County; Job, residing in Pottawattamie County, Iowa, and Jerusha Susan, wife of Asbury Ford, of this township.

Our subject grew to manhood upon a farm in this county, receiving his education at the district schools. At the age of twenty-two he began working as a farm hand, continuing for a year, and for several years afterward rented farms. His first purchase of land consisted of sixty acres on Mud Creek. Samuel R. Haines was united in marriage, Feb. 22, 1857, with Eliza Jane Mercer, a native of Guernsey County, Ohio, where she was born Nov. 8, 1837, and is a daughter of Hiram and Barbara (Miller) Mercer, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania, though the mother was of German descent. The young couple began their domestic life on the estate of his father, he buying the interests of the other heirs, until he owned the place, adding to this until he now has 334 acres of land. Mrs. Haines owns forty acres, making 374 acres all told; they have one of the finest residences in the township, it being erected as a cost $2,200. His principal business is raising stock, shipping a carload per year. Mr. and Mrs. Haines are members of the Methodist Protestant Church, in which they are earnest workers. Among the citizens of Henry County none stand higher in the esteem and confidence of all than this worthy couple. Mr. Haines affiliates with the Republican party.

Fourteen children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Haines: Mary Agnes died when ten months old; Eliza, wife of George Golston, of Trenton; John William is a farmer of Warren County, Neb.; Melvina died in childhood; Jonathan, a resident of Warren County, Neb.; Martha A., wife of Richard Lane, of this county; Ada Belle died when sixteen months old; Charlie resides in Warren County, Neb.; Carrie still lives with her parents; Samuel died at the age of four; Seneth and Hama, yet inmates of the paternal mansion; Geneva died in childhood, and Barbara Ellen is yet living with her parents.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 476)

SAMUEL HAMELL, a farmer of Baltimore Township, residing on section 3, was born in Madison County, Ind., in 1841, and is a son of William and Dorcas (Meade) Hamell. In that State the latter were married, and there all their children were born, namely: James, Isaac; Joseph, deceased; Samuel; Garrett, deceased; Phoebe, Mary and Elizabeth. In 1852 the family removed to this county, and William Hamell purchased a residence in New London, where he resided during his lifetime. His widow died Dec. 17, 1887, in her seventy-ninth year. Their daughter Phoebe wedded Zebedee Rains, a well-known farmer of this township; Mary became the wife of Wellington Leach, a resident of New London; Isaac married Julia A. Troby, and is a resident of Arkansas; Joseph died unmarried, and James has not been heard of since the war, at which time he was a soldier in the rebel army; Garrett died while in the service, unmarried; Elizabeth became the wife of Clark Ireland, a resident engineer of Minneapolis, Minn.; Samuel, the subject of this sketch, became the husband of Miss Martha Shepherd, in 1861. She was the daughter of John and Rebecca (Fees) Shepherd, who came to this country from Adair County, Ky., about the year 1838, taking up a claim one mile south of where the village of New London has since been built. Upon this they built a log cabin, and for a year or two the Indians were very plentiful in that vicinity. Their two eldest children, Sarah and Nancy, were born in Kentucky, and their mother often trembled with fear when alone with her little ones, thinking that perhaps the Indians might do them injury, but they were never molested, except by their frequent calls for something to eat. This was not easy to furnish, for Mr. Shepherd was not only a poor man, but had to cross the Mississippi to obtain supplies from Illinois, and the journey always took four days' time, during which the wife and little children were left alone. They, however, remained secure in their little cabin, and the emigration soon brought other neighbors. Their land was entered at the first land sale held at Burlington, and upon this tract the father lived and died. After the Shepherd family came to Iowa other children were born: Martha, wife of our subject; Lewis, who wedded Martha Cox; John, the husband of Maggie Williams; Alva, married to Ann Reed; William, wedded to Minnie Pero; all living except the youngest. All the sons except Lewis were soldiers, and all were in the same company and regiment, except William. Alvin was the only one receiving a wound, and all passed through some of the hardest fought battles of the war. The eldest daughter, Sarah A., wedded Arthur Cornwell, and Nancy became the wife of William Lansinger.

After his return from the army Samuel Hamell purchased his present farm, upon which the family have since resided. prosperity has always smiled upon them, and they are numbered, not only among the early settlers, but with the best families of the township. Five children have graced their home: Clara B. is the wife of Samuel Denny, a resident of New London; Minnie B. is the wife of James Kramer, a machinist of Burlington; Ami, Maggie and Ai are yet with their parents.

We are pleased to mention the family of this brave soldier, and those of the Shepherd family as well. The mother of Mr. Hamell is yet a resident of New London, and is now in her seventy-fourth year. For twelve years Mr. Hamell has been connected with the School Board, seven years of which time he was Treasurer. He is a member of Wesley Harden Post No. 384, G. A. R., of which he is one of the charter members, and to him is due the credit of its organization. He is a member of and the Treasurer of the anti-horse-thief association, and is one of its original members. As a gallant soldier, and upright citizen, and faithful official, he commands the respect of all who know him.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 587-88)

WILLIAM L. HAMILTON, residing on section 24, Canaan Township, Henry Co., Iowa, was born in Clermont County, Ohio, May 31, 1817. He is a son of William Brice and Sabina (McMichael) Hamilton. His father was born in Pennsylvania of Scotch descent, and was a soldier in the War of 1812. Mrs. Hamilton was of Irish parentage.

William Hamilton was left in charge of an uncle and aunt, James Ha. and Margaret Gates, at the death of his mother, which occurred when he was but six years old. He remained with them until nearly twenty-one years of age, when he engaged to teach a district school in his native county. He taught for nine months, during which time he laid up enough money with which to enter Carey's Academy, situated near Cincinnati. Attending one term Mr. Hamilton then went to Clermont Academy, near New Richmond on the Ohio River. He attended school there for several terms, teaching in his vacations in order to raise money to pay the tuition. Completing his education he engaged in teaching for eleven years, but his health failing him he was obliged to give this up, and so purchased a small farm. Mr. Hamilton then, during the summer time, took charge of the farm, but in the winter again taught school. In the spring of 1856 he emigrated to Iowa, settling at Mt. Pleasant, where he lived a short time, and then rented a farm on which he resided for two yeas. In the spring of 1859 Mr. Hamilton purchased forty acres of unimproved land on section 24, Canaan Township. This has been his home ever since, and has has added to his possessions until he now owns 120 acres, comprising one of the best farms in that section of the county.

Mr. Hamilton was married, in 1842, to Eliza Ann Duncan, a native of Maysville, Ky., and a daughter of Ennis and Hester (Bloxsom) Duncan, Kentucky being also their native State. Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton have been the parents of seven children: William E., now President of Simpson College at Indianola, Iowa, is a graduate of Mt. Pleasant University; Eliza Jane, also a graduate of the Wesleyan University at Mt. Pleasant, is the wife of Rev. Edward H. Sawers, now pastor of a church at Wilton Grove, Ontario, Canada; Mary, residing at home; Melissa, who is engaged as a teacher in the graded school of Panama, Iowa; Charles Wesley, who died when only nineteen months old; James K. died at the age of five years; John Bloxsom, who died while yet an infant nineteen months old. Mr. Hamilton and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He united with the church over a half a century ago, and has always been instrumental in the building of churches, and aids largely in church work. For forty years he has been a local preacher in that faith.

Among the prominent pioneer settlers of Canaan Township, we are pleased to mention the name of William L. Hamilton, who is one of the best known and most highly respected citizens of Henry County. Politically, he is a Republican. His son, W. E., was a soldier in the war for the Union, a member of the 45th Iowa Volunteer Infantry.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 608)

J. W. HANNA, M. D., of Winfield, Iowa, was born in Washington County, Pa., on the 23d of September, 1846. His parents Thomas and Jane (Cooper) Hanna, were also natives of the same county, and his father was a farmer by occupation. Dr. Hanna grew to manhood in his native county, receiving there a common-school and academic education. At the age of twenty-two he entered upon the study of his chosen profession under the tutorship of Dr. D. W. Robison, of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa. He also attended the medical department of the Iowa State University at Iowa City, receiving a diploma of graduation from there in 1873. He afterward received special instructions at the hospital at St. Louis. On completing his studies, Dr. Hanna immediately began practicing. He went to Solon, Iowa, but remained there only a short time, when he went to Cedar Rapids, where he practiced his profession until 1875. he then went to St. Louis, and in 1879 came to Winfield, Iowa.

On the 26th of October, 1882, Dr. Hanna led to the marriage altar Miss Carrie E. Duncan, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, a daughter of Wilson and Mary (Butler) Duncan. At the time of breaking out of the yellow fever at St. Louis in 1878, our subject was an assistant at the quarantine hospital in that city, at which time his health became poor and has never been fully regained. The Doctor is a member of the Central Medical Society. He is a strong Democrat, always ready to aid in the advancement of his party. He was appointed Postmaster under the present administration, Sept. 13, 1885, and has been a candidate for the Legislature and is at present Mayor of Winfield. he is a Master Mason, a member of Good Faith Lodge No. 235, and of the Royal Arch Chapter at Washington. The Doctor is one of the prominent citizens of Henry County. He has been in practice here since 1879, and his patronage each year grows larger, as the respect of the citizens for Dr. Hanna grows larger. He has been for years Assistant Surgeon of the B. & N. W. , and B. & W. R. R., and is Surgeon-in-Chief of the two systems.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 515-16.)

WILLIAM J. HANNUM, a farmer residing on section 11, Wayne Township, Henry Co., Iowa, was born in Madison, Ind., although his parents were natives and residents of Washington County, Pa., where our subject was reared. His father, James Hannum, was a farmer in Pennsylvania, and reared a family of nine children in that State, all of whom were sons: John A., Alexander, Samuel, William J., James, Joseph, Finley, Hugh and Thomas. The eldest was married in Pennsylvania to Miss Hannah Hayes, before the family removed to Des Moines County, Iowa, but later he, too, with his young wife settled in Des Moines County. In 1851 the family became citizens of this State, settling eleven miles north of Burlington, on a farm. When the war broke out five of the sons enlisted: John, deceased, became a member of the 6th Iowa; Alexander, deceased, of a Colorado regiment; Samuel, in the 30th Iowa; Joseph, in the 14th, and Finley also in the 30th Iowa. With the exception of Alexander, all served until the close of the war and were in the most noted and hotly contested battles. John became a veteran and was killed at the battle Kennesaw Mountain, and his body was laid to rest by the side of many other brave comrades who had fallen pierced by rebel bullets. The three others are living, and with our subject complete the family, except the aged father, who yet resides in Des Moines County. Samuel wedded Lydia Hannum, his cousin, and resides near America, Nemaha Co., Kan.; Joseph became the husband of Elizabeth Robbins, and lives in Des Moines County; Finley wedded Mrs. Adelia (Shallehammer) Wilson, of Concordia, Kan., where they reside, and our subject became the husband of Elinor Wright, Dec. 19, 1867. She is the daughter of Alexander and Hannah (Marshall) Wright, of Des Moines County, who came from Brown County, Ohio, about 1837, and purchased a claim of perhaps half a section, nine miles northwest of Burlington, upon which a log cabin stood, but he later improved his lands, and entered a large tract at the land sales held in Burlington.

Mr. Wright was a very enterprising man and was one of the best known men of his day, and at an early day was elected Justice of the Peace. He lived to a mature age and both himself and wife were buried side by side in the "Old Stone Church" Cemetery. Her death occurred first, and he remained true to her memory. They were parents of nine children, four living, all of whom are married: John C. is a resident of Oskaloosa, Kan., and is the husband of Miss McCullough; Wellington married Mary Heizer, and is a resident of Kansas; Alexander became the husband of Roxalena Hobson, and resides in Greenwood, Mo.; Wellington is a United Presbyterian minister, and is stationed at Winchester, Jefferson Co., Kan.  Those deceased are Benjamin M., William and Robert J. Benjamin was a soldier and belonged to the 1st Missouri Cavalry, and was killed accidently at the battle of Pea Ridge; Robert enlisted, and before being assigned to any regiment died.

After the marriage of our subject, he moved upon a good farm, which was previously purchased, and later sold this and bought the Wright homestead, and subsequently another farm in Des Moines County. In 1883 Mr. Hannum purchased the farm in Henry County upon which the family now reside, removing to it soon after the purchase. Eight children have grace the union - James A., John W., Joseph W., Mary L., Robert, Lavara, Roy F. and Elinor. The family circle is unbroken. The long cribs of corn and numerous out-buildings show to the traveler the productiveness of the broad acres, and the family are heartily welcomed by the best people of Wayne Township and are counted a valuable acquisition to the business and social world in which they enjoy a deserved place. The birth of our subject occurred May 25, 1837, and Mrs. Hannum was born in Des Moines County, Iowa, April 24, 1842. Both are members of the Winfield United Presbyterian Church.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 465-66)

   John M. Hanson

JOHN M. HANSON, deceased, was one of the pioneers of Henry County, and one of its most esteemed citizens. He was born in Deerfield, Franklin Co., Mass., July 25, 1807, and died on his farm in Center Township, adjoining Mt. Pleasant, April 3, 1887, lacking but little of having completed fourscore years, a long life, well and worthily spent. He left a sorrowing widow and children, and a large circle of friends to mourn their loss, but comforted with the knowledge that he went to meet the reward earned by an upright Christian life. He was one of a large family, of whom but three are living at the present: Mrs. P. H. Fisher, of Mt. Pleasant, and two younger brothers, now residents of Mentor, Ohio. Like the great majority of New England boys of his day, he had his own way to make in the world. and received but the limited education common in those times. Early in life he was apprenticed to the trade of cabinet-making at Shelburne, in his native county, working there until his marriage on Jan. 8, 1832, to Miss Lauretta Smith, a native of Massachusetts. Shortly after this event he removed to New York State, but did not stay long there, being, like many others, attracted by the more brilliant opportunities in the West, and removing to Ohio. That place did not suit him, and he went still nearer to the frontier, arriving in Chicago, Ill., in 1836, whence he started with a team to Joliet. There he traded his team for wild land, and set out for Iowa, arriving in Henry County in September of that year, and soon after settling on the farm where all his subsequent life was passed, with the exception of the time he spent in California. He was truly one of that band of noble pioneers who opened the way to the broad prairies of the State. When he located on his farm, there was not a settler between him and the Mississippi, whence all his supplies had to be procured. Nothing daunted, with unbounded energy and faith, he began the work of making a home, and how well his confidence was founded is shown by the results he achieved. Besides farming he was for some years engaged in chair-making and turning, and many specimens of his skill are yet to be found in the houses of the earlier settlers. He was industrious and enterprising, and turned his hand to anything he found to do.

August 18, 1839, his wife died, leaving three children, of whom but one is now living, a son, William, in business in Mt. Pleasant. On the 10th of February, 1841, Mr. Hanson was married to Miss Laura A. Wood, by whom he had six children, of whom four are now living: Charles A. and John C., residents of Chillicothe, Mo., Lauretta A., now Mrs. Bayles, living in Nebraska; and Henry W., a resident of this county. Leaving his family provided for, he started in 1852 for the gold fields of California, with a company of friends and neighbors, and accompanied by his eldest son, George. shortly after he left home his wife died, on Feb. 24, 1852, but the sad news did not reach him until seven months afterward. he staid in California for six years, most of the time engaged in mining. In 1858 he returned to his desolate home in Iowa, and gathered his children around him. In his absence two of them had found a home with their grandparents. Mr. and Mrs. Wood, cared for and attended by an older sister. The others had been reared by other relatives and friends. Aug. 26, 1859, death again invaded the family, the eldest son, George, who had remained in California, dying on that day, at Deer Creek.

June 10, 1862, Mr. Hanson was united in marriage to Eliza, daughter of Joel and Eunice (Higgins) Farr, the former a native of Vermont, and the latter born at Cape Cod, Mass.  Mrs. Hanson was in Chittenden County, Vt., June 9, 1817, and proved herself a worthy and loving helpmeet to her husband, whose memory she tenderly reveres.

Mr. Hanson was a man of marked intelligence, energy, good judgment, and decision of character, and took an active part in all movements tending to the interest of his adopted home. He was the first President of the Henry County Agricultural Society, and chief promoter of its first fair. He held many town and school offices, and in 1871 was chosen to represent the county in the State Legislature on an independent farmer's ticket, and in every position to which he was called fully justified the confidence reposed in him. In his death the county lost one of its most valued citizens, who had done much for its advancement, and his many friends a counselor on whose judgment they had been accustomed to rely; his wife a noble and kind husband, and his children a wife and faithful parent. Though his days were prolonged to a decade beyond the Psalmist's three-score years and ten, yet to the last he was an active and useful member of society. his life was a model for all. Blessings and sorrows he accepted as coming from Him who "doeth all things well," and his memory is revered by many who honored his sterling integrity of character, his unswerving honesty, industry, unvarying cheerfulness and ready charity. His death, which was preceded by a severe illness, was not unexpected, but was not the less mourned, and his mortal remains were followed to their last resting-place by a large concourse of friends assembled to honor the memory of a just man, and were laid to rest to await the sounding of that trumpet which shall summon both the quick and the dead.

The portrait of Mr. Hanson, inserted by request of his widow, is a fitting tribute to the worth of one who was in every relation of life an upright man, and a true representative of the best class of Henry County's early settlers.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 355-56)

      Jesse Cummings Harbin

REV. JESSE CUMMINGS HARBIN, real-estate and insurance agent, Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, was born in Iredell County, N. C., Nov. 20, 1810, and is a son of William and Lucy (Cummings) Harbin, both of whom were of English descent, the former being a native of Georgetown, Md., now District of Columbia, and the latter of Virginia. On his father's side he traces his ancestry to Edward Harbin, who emigrated from England to America in the early days of the colonies. William Harbin and family moved to Iredell County, N. C., at a very early day.

Jesse C. Harbin, the subject of this sketch, was reared in his native county, and was married in the fall of 1830 to Miss Matilda Robertson, a native of Iredell County, N. C., and daughter of William Robertson, formerly of Virginia. In consequence of his general correspondence, Mr. Harbin changed the spelling of the family name, using an "i" instead of an "e" in the final syllable. Soon after his marriage he moved with his young wife to Knox County, In., and from then to Sullivan, where he engaged in farming. He lost his wife in 1832, who died leaving him with one son, James Wesley, now residing in Indianapolis, Ind. This son grew to manhood, studied and engaged in the practice of medicine prior to the war. He entered the army, and on account of ill-health was discharged, returned home and is now engaged in the manufacture of a corn-planter of which he is the inventor.

In 1824 Mr. Harbin united with the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in 1831 was licensed to preach. On the death of his wife he joined the Indiana Conference and entered upon his duties as a circuit preacher. He traveled in the discharge of the duties of his holy calling for a term of eight years, when his health failing he retired from active service for a term of three years. Re-entering the work he continued for one year, when health failing again, he settled at Delaware Station, in Ripley County, where he engaged in the mercantile business and was appointed Station Agent for the Ohio & Mississippi Railroad Company. On his first effort to couple some freight cars he was loading, he lost the end of his thumb and two fingers.

In 1840 Mr. Harbin married Miss Eliza Nickerson, daughter of Abijah Nickerson, whose family were from Vermont. Two children were born of their union, a son and a daughter. The son, George W., after the death of his mother, went into the army, where he remained during the war, the last year serving as Hospital Steward. He married Miss Amelia Snyder, and now resides at Waterloo, Iowa. He was one of the principal organizers of the Equitable Mutual Life and Endowment Association of that place. He has been very successful in the enterprise, and the company is rated among the leading local companies of the State. The daughter, Emma A., is the wife of William R. Scott, with whom she was united in marriage March 30, 1886. Both she and her husband are successful agents for the Equitable Mutual Life and Endowment Association. They reside at Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, but are engaged in traveling the greater part of the time. Mrs. Scott is a graduate of the Iowa Wesleyan University, of the class of 1869.

Mr. Harbin emigrated to Iowa in 1859, and settled in the township of Davis Creek, Washington County, where he was engaged in farming a few years. His second wife, Eliza Harbin, died July 7, 1861, saying as she passed away, "Sweet rivers of redeeming love lie just before mine eyes."

Mr. Harbin was again married, Aug. 27, 1862, to Mrs. Catherine Brown, widow of John Brown and daughter of Peter Posey. Her father was of Scotch-English descent. Mrs. Harbin was born near Philadelphia, Chester Co., Pa., and came to Iowa in 1852. She was married in Washington County, Iowa, to Mr. John Brown, who died the third year after their marriage. They had one child, a daughter, Mary Laura, who died aged nearly two years. One child was born of her union with Mr. Harbin, a daughter, Lillie May, who grew to be a beautiful and accomplished young lady of eighteen years of age, when death claimed her on the 23d of February, 1882. Miss Harbin was a close student, and would soon have graduated with honors. She was stricken with scarlet fever and died after a short illness. She was a devout Christian, having been converted at the age of nine years. Amiable, intelligent and winning in manner, she was a general favorite among schoolmates and friends.

Mr. Harbin removed to Washington, Washington Co., Iowa, soon after his last marriage, where he was engaged in mercantile business for two and a half years. Prior to that, and while a resident of Richmond, he supplied the Millersburg circuit one year as pastor. He removed from Washington to Mt. Pleasant in April, 1865, and has resided here continuously since that time. During this time he has devoted his attention to the real-estate and insurance business. His son George enlisted in the late war, in 1862, in Company D, 24th Regiment Iowa Volunteer Infantry, and served till the close of the war. His regiment was in the Department of the Mississippi and participated in the capture of Vicksburg. He was Hospital Steward during the last year of his service. Mr. Harbin is a Republican in politics, and cast his first vote for William H. Harrison, and voted with the Whigs till the organization of the Republican party, since which time he has been a member of that party. Mr. Harbin is highly respected as a citizen and business man.

Fine lithographic portraits of this worthy couple may be found upon preceding pages. That they are worthy a place in this volume none will deny.

The following sermon was preached by Mr. Harbin, Feb. 22, 1863, during a dark period of the war:

Who knowest whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this. --Esther, iv:14.

1st. The time in which we live. 2d. The end for which we live.

We live in a time of great corruption. First, political corruption. We are aware that an idea is quite prevalent that a minister should not interfere with politics. To determine the correctness or incorrectness of this idea, let us inquire what is, or are politics. We answer, it is (or should be) that policy by which a government secures to its votaries the exercise of certa in inalienable rights, as life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Now, we ask, have ministers no interest in those rights? Must they stand by and see them ruthlessly trailed in the dust and fearlessly trampled in the mire with sealed lips and placid countenance? The stains would cry out against them as dumb dogs, who, seeing the sword of destruction coming on their people, should then not raise their warning voice against those errors calculated to undermine and destroy their liberties. Therefore, in the name of Israel's God, let them set up their banners proclaiming the vengeance of our God against all evil-doers, political as well as moral. To secure these rights and liberties, government is necessary, and in order to government the power to govern must be vested somewhere. Hence the different forms of government, from an absolute monarchy up to the democracy. In the former this power is vested in the breast of one man; in the latter it is placed in the hands of the people or a majority of them, which is the form adopted by our fathers, sealing it to us with their hearts' blood, as a sacred boon which we should never surrender to bold aspirants and tyrants. That the people may secure to each, their rights and liberties, laws must be enacted and enforced, hence the necessity of legislators to enact those laws, and rulers to enforce them. This requires the delegation of certain rights or powers to these representatives and officers, which constitutes the Republican form of democracy. In a large variety of people there will be necessarily arise a variety of sentiment in regard to the better policy to be pursued in order to secure these rights and liberties, hence the formation of different political parties, which, if properly guarded will only tend to sift the precious from the vile, and operate as checks and balances to guard and secure these sacred rights more firmly. But in order to do this, there must be no motive but pure patriotism or love of country influencing these parties. But is this the case with us to-day? We have only to look at the history of our country since the inauguration of that military chieftain, Gen. Jackson, who adopted the sentiment "To the victors belong the spoils," and thus wrested the emoluments of the country out of the hands of the people, and distributed them among the party as bribes to the one and rewards to the other, since when Epluribus unum - one of many - has not been true of us, but we have been two belligerent powers, contending for the loaves and fishes. This is the exotic that has nearly extinguished the last spark of pure patriotism by inducing men to sacrifice their honest principles to their interest, equivalent to selling themselves, which if a man will do, what will he not sell? His country or anything for which he gets his price. See this illustrated in the history of the Democratic party since its adoption at the time referred to above. Hear them boasting now of having ruled the country for forty years (this boast was made at the beginning of the war), which to our disgrace me must say is more truth than fiction. But how have they done it? We answer, by bribes, rewards, imolation and assassination. When they by bribery could not control the ballot, they resorted to the bullet or poison, its equivalent, as in the case, as we verily believe, of Harrison, having Tyler with them either by bribery or otherwise. And when they feared the result of the ballot of 1860, hear them saying to the South in the Charleston Convention: "Do you sustain our party which hitherto has been anti-slavery and we will sustain slavery," thus imolating the whole slave population at the shrine of Democracy. The ballot, however, proved that the people were not longer to be b ought and sold by the party, but were disposed to assert their rights by the election of Abraham Lincoln, when the party determined if they could not rule they would ruin. The South said: "the Democratic party which has ruled the country by hook and crook for forty years, is pledged to defend us in our strife for the perpetuation of slavery. To arms, O Democrats!" and thus the first gun was heard thundering on Sumter. And now comes the tug of war in earnest. Buchanan, with his Democratic Cabinet and Congress, had emptied our treasury, scattered our army to the four winds, and shipped our arms to the South, carrying out his pledge. In this condition, but for the God of nations putting into the heart of Douglas to divide the Democratic party, we must have fallen by the hand of these combined traitors. But this division kept them at bay till we had time to replenish our treasury, army and navy, by the uprising of the people. Thus foiled, they now resort to assassination, and Douglas is removed as the barrier to the reunion of the party, upon which event bribed agents are sent all through the North, organizing secret associations, such as Knights of the Golden Circle, Kuklux, etc., the sole object of which was to reunite and rally the party.

Thus far the history was traced at the time of the delivery of the above sermon, and to show its correctness we have only to trace down the darker and more bloody developments of the same program in the assassination of our Lincoln, as their last resort to get the government in their own hands through the treachery of Andy Johnson. Thus they felt, if they had not ruled at the ballot, they had ruled by Booth's bullet, and then was there a surrender of Johnson to Sherman, who, knowing the program (having been one of the party), felt he must atone for his world-renowned march, devastating their country, by giving them better terms than they asked, and thus paved the way for his exaltation to the Presidential chair. One man, however, seems to have been found who was no an aspirant, and exclaimed: "On this line we will fight it out (unconditional surrender to the rights of the people) if it takes all summer to do it." The people rallied around the banner and thus we conquered Andy Johnson, and Kuklusixm has been kept at bay, notwithstanding Horace Greeley and many others have joined with Jeff Davis and the whisky ring in an open fight to reinstate the party again in power. But I think the people, through the influence of the God of nations, will not slack their efforts till the emoluments of the country are wrested out of the tyrant party's hands, and placed again in their own, when they will guard them more sacredly than ever before.

It is not the above conglomeration of evils, all of which from affinity now concentrate around the rotten carcass of Democracy, that we deprecate. They are sold to Satan, to work all manner of wickedness with greediness, and will ere long, we fear, bring on themselves swift destruction. But we think there is vitality enough yet in the body politic to eject these vile excrescences and reconstruct the country on the pure old patriotism love of country, growing out of love supreme to God and equal to each other, and that will not allow an aspirant promoted to any office of trust or profit, but the people select their rulers on personal and not political merit, with the understanding that they shall only retain said position on condition of unswerving adherence to the strict principles of equity, devoid of favoritism.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 583-86)

   M. H. Hare

REV. M. H. HARE, deceased, a prominent minister and Presiding Elder of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and a pioneer of Iowa of 1845, was born in Ross County, Ohio, Dec. 23, 1818. His parents, Daniel and Sarah Hare, were natives of Kentucky, who settled in Ross County, Ohio, in the pioneer days of that region. The subject of our sketch received his primary education in the public schools, and completed his studies at Hillsboro Academy. He united with the Methodist Episcopal Church when thirteen years of age. He was engaged in school teaching, and was married near Hillsboro, Ohio, Sept. 17, 1840, to Miss Matilda Parkinson. Three children were born of their union, two of whom died in childhood; and one son, Joseph, born Jan. 1, 1844, was a soldier of the late war, served as a member of the 6th Regiment Iowa Volunteer Infantry, and died at Mt. Pleasant, Dec. 4, 1870, from disease contracted while in the service. Mr. Hare emigrated to Iowa in 1845, and made his home in Farmington, Van Buren County. He was a student of the Scriptures from boyhood, and a zealous worker in the cause of religion. He was admitted to the Iowa Conference immediately on his arrival in Iowa, and engaged in ministerial duties i the Farmington Circuit, which included Keokuk, West Point, and the region adjacent. Mr. Hare was next assigned to White Breast Mission, which included the most of Marion, Monroe and Wapello Counties, and was very sparsely settled. He labored in that field one year and was then appointed to New London Circuit, where he served two years. Mrs. Hare died Aug. 7, 1849, at the close of the second year. His next appointment was Keosauqua for one year, and then Ft. Des Moines Mission. While laboring here he visited the new settlements and arranged appointments over a large scope of country, taking in all the  country then settled between the Des Moines and Coon Rivers and extending some sixty miles toward the Missouri River. From this charge Mr. Hare was sent to Iowa City, then the capital of the State. The next four years he was Presiding Elder over the Keokuk District. He was then appointed to Mt. Pleasant, and served the church two years at Asbury and one at College Chapel. In the fall of 1859 he was made Presiding Elder of the Albia District. At the same Conference he was elected a delegate to the General Conference which met in Buffalo, N. Y., in May, 1860. Mr. Hare was ordained Deacon at Mt. Pleasant in 1847, and Elder at Ft. Madison in 1849.

On the outbreak of the great Rebellion he dedicated his services to his country, and by voice and pen did all he could to sustain the Government. The war having continued a year and a half he decided that for him the call for personal service was imperative, and on Nov. 18, 1862, entered the Union army as Chaplain of the 36th Iowa Volunteer Infantry. His enthusiasm did much to animate the men, and he speedily acquired the love and confidence of the command. His words of cheer raised the spirits of the despondent, and many a halting spirit was sustained and helped by his wise counsels. he, with a large number of his comrades, was captured at Mark's Mill, Ark., and sent to the stockade, at Tyler, Tex., where he was confined for three months, enduring unusual hardships and privations, and contracting the disease which finally ended his useful life. He had long been noted as a singer of the songs of Zion. While preaching it had been his practice to lead the singing in his church, both in the pulpit and on the floor, and his sweet and powerful voice had such an influence over his hearers that often they listened entranced, each forgetting his own part, and leaving him to sing alone. In the prison-pen this gift was exercised to its utmost to sustain and cheer his fellow-prisoners, and day after day and night after night the good old Methodist tunes rang out over the pen, telling of the better land where all would be reunited. Many a fellow-prisoner, for whom the last bugle call had been sounded, passed over the dark river holding the hand of his beloved Chaplain, and to whose ear, dulled by the near approach of death, the last sound was the voice of Michael Hare telling of the happier home beyond the skies, where beyond the great silence there is peace. Not only inside the stockade but outside did his voice penetrate, and when it came his turn to be detailed for outside work, as in bringing in wood, etc., many a little present secretly found its way to his hand, and was secreted and kept for the benefit of his suffering comrades. Being exchanged he rejoined his regiment, and served until the close of the war, being discharged at Duvall's Bluff, Ark., Aug. 24, 1865, when he returned to Iowa. He spent the succeeding year in charge of the old Zion Church of Burlington, and then went to Mt. Pleasant, where he served one year. Then, in the hopes of improving his health, he accepted an appointment to the Keokuk District, where he would have to travel more than usual. But a mortal disease had fastened upon his system, and he was cut off before the close of the first year, his death occurring July 27, 1868.

Mr. Hare was united in marriage at Keosauqua, Iowa, Aug. 3, 1850, to Miss Hannah J. Tylee, daughter of Edward and Rebecca Tylee. Mrs. Hare was born in Wayne Co., Pa. Her father was born in Vermont, and her mother in Pennsylvania. Seven children were born of their union, six of whom are living at this writing, three sons and three daughters: Ella, the eldest child, is the wife of M. M. Taylor, a prominent merchant of Tacoma, Wash. Ter., and Treasurer of that city; Edward R. married Miss Winnifred Beattie, and is engaged in the clothing business at Tacoma; Ida H. is the wife of B. W. Coiner, Prosecuting Attorney of Tacoma, and a prominent lawyer of that city; May has been a teacher of the Mt. Pleasant city schools for several years, and resides with her mother in that city; Harlan T. is a civil engineer, and and at present is in Wisconsin with the Burlington & Northwestern. He married Miss Mary Furman, of DeSoto, Wis. Charles H. is a dentist, of Knoxville, Iowa, and is married to Miss May Craddick, of that city.

Mr. hare served three terms as Presiding Elder, twice of the Keokuk District, and once of the Albia District, and was Presiding Elder of the Keokuk District at the time of his death. He was elected, and served as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Iowa Wesleyan University, from 1850 till his death, and was an influential member of that body. In his political views he was a Democrat in early life, but of strong anti-slavery sentiments. On the formation of the Republican party he joined that organization, and was a consistent advocate of its principles during the remainder of his life. He took a warm interest in the cause of temperance, and while not an extremist in his views did much toward encouraging public sentiment in favor of temperance legislation, and in building up a healthful popular opinion in opposition to the liquor traffic. He was patriotic and earnest in the support of the Government, and sympathized with the unfortunate victims of slavery laws. He was never fanatical in his views, but practical and earnest, so much so that it is said of him that any enterprise or project that Michael H. Hare had endorsed must be all right, and worthy of favorable consideration. During the many years that he was associated with the Iowa Wesleyan University he was a leader in its management, and aided materially in its development and progress. He was prominent in the affairs of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Iowa, and his wife's counsel in the settlement of difficulties, or in the advancement of measures, was always received with respect and consideration. In his social and domestic relations he was kind, affable and entertaining. He lived a useful and righteous life, and died sincerely lamented, not only by those naturally endeared to him by family ties, but by a host of sincere friends throughout the State. Mrs. Hare, a lady of high social standing, and possessing many estimable qualities, survives her husband, and resides at Mt. Pleasant.

An excellent portrait of this worthy minister and patriot appears on an adjoining page, and will be regarded with respect and love by the many friends he has left behind.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 610-14)

W. R. HARKNESS, one of the prominent citizens and early settlers of Henry County, Iowa, residing on section 2, Scott Township, was born in Delaware County, N. Y., Nov. 27, 1842. His parents, J. B. and Margaret (Fleming) Harkness, emigrated to Berry County, Mich., in 1852, and two years later they came to Henry County, Iowa, making this their home until the time of their deaths. Six children blessed their union: Mary E., became the wife of A. I. Beam, of Woodson County, Kan.; Margaret A. married William Bennett, a resident of Scott Township; W. R., the subject of this sketch; James E., a resident of Union County, Iowa; Sarah J., wife of Dr. B. B. Shockey, a practicing physician of Scotia, Neb.; and George T., residing in Yates Center, Kan. In politics J. B. Harkness was a Democrat, strong in his convictions. He and his wife were members of the Presbyterian Church, and were active workers in their Master's vineyard. Mr. Harkness departed this life in 1881, his wife surviving him until 1886. Their union was of the happiest; they lived together for more than half a century, saw their children all comfortably settled in life, and when their work here on earth was finished they cheerfully responded to their Master's call.

Of the many prominent citizens of Scott Township, none are more truly deserving of a place in Henry County's history than W. R. Harkness, and his interesting family. Mr. Harkness came with his family to this county in 1854, and here has been his home ever since. He was reared upon her virgin soil, and received his education in the common schools and Howe's Academy. His love for his country caused him to take up arms for the Union, and he enlisted in Company H, 45th Iowa Volunteer Infantry, in 1864. He was mustered into service at Keokuk, and then went to Benton Barracks, St. Louis, and subsequently proceeded to Memphis, Tenn. While at Moscow, Tenn., he did guard duty on the railroad, being in the 16th Corps. Serving until the close of the war, he was mustered out at Keokuk, Iowa, in 1865.

In 1868 Mary E. Thompson became the wife of Mr. Harkness. She was a native of Ohio, born Jan. 27, 1848. Five children has been born to them, three daughters and two sons: Mary, Eva and William Glenn, deceased; those living are Maggie L., Lois and Elmo. Mr. Harkness has always been Republican, and cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln. He has held the office of Trustee of his township. He is a member of the Mort Hobart Post, G. A. R.  Mr. and Mrs. Harkness are both members of the United Presbyterian Church. On a fine farm of eighty acres, all under cultivation, Mr. Harkness and his estimable wife reside.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 515-16)

HON. JAMES HARLAN is the best known of all the citizens of Henry County. He is a native of Clarke County, Ill., born Aug. 25, 1820, and is the son of Silas and Mary (Conley) Harlan. On the father's side the family are of English descent, who in an early day settled in South Carolina, moving from thence to Pennsylvania. The maternal grandfather of our subject was a soldier in the Revolutionary War.

Silas Harlan moved with his family to Parke County, Ind., when James was but three years old, and there the son was reared on a farm. He received his education in Asbury University, at Greencastle, Ind., then under the Presidency of the late Bishop Simpson, graduating in 1845. On receiving his diploma he came to Iowa, locating in Iowa City, where he took a professorship in the college of that place. In 1846 he was elected Superintendent of Public Schools, being the only candidate of his party elected. After serving one year, the election was declared void, and going before the people, he was re-elected, but on account of some informalities in the ballots, the office was given to his opponent, a portion of the tickets being printed Harland and Harlin, instead of Harlan.

In 1848 Mr. Harland was admitted to the bar, and practiced law at Iowa City until 1853, when he was elected the first President of the Iowa Wesleyan University, and removed to Mt. Pleasant, where he has since continued to reside. Under his administration the university was financially a success. In 1855 he was elected United States Senator for the term of six years, and took his seat in March following, and served till the end of that session. On re-assembling in the winter of 1856-57, the Senate declared his seat vacant, the majority asserting that he was not regularly elected by the Iowa Legislature. Returning home, the Legislature being in session he was again elected, returned, and served out his term. In 1861 he was re-elected for another term, but resigned in May, 1865, to assume the office Secretary of the Interior, which office he filled with signal ability till September, 1866, being once more elected United States Senator from his State, serving from March, 1867 till March 1873. During his service in the United States Senate, Mr. Harlan was an industrious and influential member, serving on some of the most important committees, being chairman of several, among others those of public lands and Indian affairs.

Leaving the Senate March 4, 1873, Mr. Harland lived a retired life until the summer of 1882, when he was appointed a Judge in the Court of Claims in the celebrated Alabama case, and on the death of Presiding Judge Wells, was appointed by President Arthur as Presiding Judge of the same court, in which capacity he served until June 1, 1885, when the business of the court was concluded, since which time he has remained in private life in Mt. Pleasant.

Mr. Harlan was united in marriage with Miss Ann Eliza Peck, in October, 1845. Four children were born to them, two of whom died in early childhood, and one son, William A., at the age of twenty-three years; one is living, Mary E., wife of Robert T. Lincoln, of Chicago. Mrs. Harlan died at Old Point Comfort, Va., Sept. 4, 1884, and was interred in the Forest Home Cemetery, at Mt. Pleasant. She was a woman greatly loved by all who knew her, and her memory will ever be cherished by her many friends.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 620-21.)

WILLIAM HARRIS, residing on section 28, Center Township, Henry Co., Iowa, is a farmer and stock-raiser, and was born in Devonshire, England, on the 24th day of September, 1840. His parents were Thomas and Maria (Weeks) Harris, both of whom were also natives of Devonshire, England. They emigrated to America in 1850, settling in Stephenson County, Ill., subsequently removing to Olmsted County, Minn., locating near Rochester. Mr. and Mrs. Harris were the parents of nine children, six of whom are now living - Samuel, William, Thomas, John, Rosa E. and Maurice. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Harris are still living, and are members of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church.

The subject of this sketch was but ten years old when his parents came to this county, and received but a common-school education. William Harris was united in marriage with Miss Estella A. Pierce, in Olmsted County, Minn., Dec. 30, 1869. She was born in Washington County, Vt., July 27, 1850, and is the daughter of Stephen and Almira (Tarbell) Pierce, both of whom were natives of Cavendish, Vt.  Mr. Pierce was a stonemason by trade, and helped to build the capitol at Montpelier, Vt., Augusta, Me., and also the forts of Boston Harbor. Mr. and Mrs. Pierce were the parents of three children: Benjamin T. died when thirty-two years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Pierce removed form Vermont to Mower County, Minn., in 1865. From there they came to Henry County, Iowa, in December, 1874. He was a Seventh-Day Adventist, sometimes preaching for that church, and always taking an active interest in the church work. On the 21st day of September, 1883, in Dakota, Mr. Pierce was called to his last rest.

Mr. and Mrs. Harris stand high in the community where they lived, and have the respect of all. They are the parents of four children: Maria E. was born Sept. 25, 1870; Laura was born Dec. 6, 1871; Hattie R. was born Jan. 26, 1875; Howard W. was born Dec. 10, 1879.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 606-7.)

HON. FRANK HATTON, ex-Postmaster General of the United States, formerly a prominent journalist of Iowa, and resident of Mt. Pleasant, now editor of the New York Press, was born in Cambridge, Ohio, April 28, 1846, and is the son of Richard and Sarah (Green) Hatton. His father was a journalist of the considerable prominence in Ohio, and it was in his office (the Cadiz Republican) that Frank, while a mere lad, got his first "take," learned the rudiments of the printer's trade, and laid the foundation of his subsequent brilliant career as editor and publisher. On the breaking out of the late war (1861), when but fifteen years of age, he ran away and enlisted as drummer boy in the 15th Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Captain Bostwick telegraphed Frank's father to know whether he should send him home, or swear him in. The reply, prompted by pure patriotism, was "Swear him in." It was done, and the boy soldier went to the front. He was promoted to a lieutenantcy [sic] before he was twenty, and served till the close of the war. He participated in many hard-fought campaigns, and made the historic march with Sherman to the sea. On his return from the war he went to Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, where, having found the Journal of that city for sale, he induced his father to sell out the Cadiz Republican and purchase it, which was done, and the family removed to Mt. Pleasant. Frank served as local editor of the Journal till his father's death, which occurred Nov. 5, 1869, when, in company with his brother-in-law, Rev. G. W. McAdam, he purchased the office. He was appointed Postmaster at Mt. Pleasant in February, 1873, and served till May, 1874. He continued his connection with the Journal till June 1, 1874, when he sold out to Mr. McAdam, and bought a half interest in the Burlington Hawkeye, of which he assumed editorial charge. A little later he purchased his partner's interest, and became sole proprietor and editor-in-chief.

Mr. Hatton's brilliant talents and political sagacity soon brought him into prominent notice throughout the State. He was chosen delegate to the National Republican Convention in 1876, at Cincinnati, where he worked zealously for the nomination of Hon. Roscoe Conkling for President. While he did not get his choice of candidates, he labored just as earnestly in support of the ticket in the ensuing campaign. Under his able management the Burlington Hawkeye became the leading Republican paper of the State. Mr. Hatton was appointed Postmaster at Burlington, Iowa, in 1878, and proved an efficient officer.

In 1880 he espoused the case of Gen. Grant for a third term as President. He was aggressive and stalwart in the extreme in his political views, and made the Hawkeye conspicuous throughout the country for its stirring and eloquent advocacy of the justice of giving the old warrior a third term. While not a delegate to the National Republican Convention of 1880 at Chicago, he was there, and a power behind the throne. The historic 306 were encouraged and abetted by him, in their persistent support of the General. Disappointed again in getting his choice, he as ably, if not as cheerfully, supported Garfield. The Burlington Hawkeye had rapidly grown in favor under his judicious management, and Mr. Hatton's influence in the political councils of the State and Nation was recognized and courted. His friends sought his appointment as First Assistant Postmaster General, under President Garfield, but the assassination of the President prevented the appointment being made at that time. He was appointed under President Arthur to that position Oct. 29, 1881, and entered upon the discharge of the duties of the office.

Mr. Hatton's superior executive ability, energy and integrity, soon won the admiration and confidence of the nation. He proved a most efficient officer, indefatigable in his efforts to improve and perfect the mail service, sagacious in his appointments and rulings, and uncompromising in his enforcement of discipline. It is largely due to his efforts that the fast mail system was adopted, that has so materially shortened the time of transportation of the principal mails of the country.

Mr. Hatton succeeded Mr. George C. Gorman as editor of The National Republican, of Washington, D. C., in December, 1882, and by his superior ability as a journalist made that paper of the most prominent political journals in the country. He had now won a national reputation, and was of sufficient importance to excite envy and malice in the minds of some who had not been so fortunate. Consequently he had his share of abuse and misrepresentation, but he kept the even tenor of his way all the same, and when a vacancy occurred in the Cabinet, by the promotion of Mr. Gresham to the Treasury portfolio, he was appointed by President Arthur to fill it, and on the 14th day of October, 1884, he was sworn in as Postmaster General of the United States, being the youngest man ever called to a Cabinet position in the history of the country. His administration of the office justified the expectations of his most sanguine friends, and won most flattering mention from the press of the country, and especially from his brother journalists of Iowa, who are proud of the distinction acquired by their talented representative.

In recognition of Mr. Hatton's popularity a large number of post-offices have been named after him throughout the country.

Mr. Hatton severed his connection with the Burlington Hawkeye, and also with The National Republican, and in 1886 he bought the Chicago Mail, which he conducted till September, 1887, when he sold out, and in October following purchased the New York Press, which he now edits.

Mr. Hatton was united in marriage at Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, Nov. 19, 1867, to Miss Lizzie Snyder, daughter of Henry M. and Susan A. Snyder. Mrs. Hatton was born at Mt. Pleasant. they have one child, a son, Richard, born at Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, Nov. 30, 1872.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 624-26.)

RICHARD HATTON, deceased, was born in Virginia, March, 5, 1808, and was the son of Boland and Margaret (Keller) Hatton. His family were residents of Virginia for several generations. He removed with his parents to Noble County, Ohio, in his youth, and began his business career as a publisher and editor of the Guernsey Times. He subsequently published the Carrollton Free Press, and later the Cadiz Republican. He as married at Barnesville, Ohio, May 26, 1834, to Miss Sarah Green, daughter of Allen and Mary (Nicklin) Green. Mrs. Hatton was born in Virginia, and went to Ohio in childhood with her parents. Ten children were born of their union, six daughters and four sons: Mary A., born May 22, 1836, is the wife of J. L. McGregor, a hardware merchant of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa; Margaret E. was born June 21, 1838, is the widow of the Rev. E. W. Brady, and resides at Mt. Pleasant; Sarah Jane, twin sister of Mr. Brady, died in infancy, July 12, 1838; Lavina, born in 1839, died in August, 1841; Caroline, born March 16, 1842, is the wife of G. W. McAdam of the Mt. Pleasant Journal; Alcinda, born in 1844, died in September, 1846; Frank, born April 26, 1846; Allen was born Dec. 27, 1850; Harry, born in December, 1852, married Nellie Stickney.

Mr. Hatton removed with his family from Cadiz, Ohio, to Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, in 1866, when he bought the Journal office. He continued to edit and publish the Journal up to the time of his fatal illness. His death occurred Nov. 5, 1869. Mr. Hatton was an earnest Republican and labored faithfully in the advocacy of the principles of that party. He was a man of positive convictions, upright and honorable, whose aim was to encourage that which was good in the world.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 626.)

LEVI HIGGINS. Among the early pioneers the name of Levi Higgins stands out prominently. He is engaged in farming and general stock-raising on section 22, of Tippecanoe Township, and is a native of Milton County, Vt., born May 5, 1835. His parents were James and Emily (Wait) Higgins, the father a native of Canada, and the mother of Vermont. James Higgins was a sailor, and a farmer in his younger days, and during the War of 1812 he fought against the British. He and his good wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In 1837 the family emigrated to Ohio, locating at Painesville, where they remained two yeas, and then came to Henry County, Iowa, and made their home in Mt. Pleasant, where the father died in 1865. The mother survived him eleven years, dying in 1876, at the age of seventy-five. To them were born eleven children: Herman died Feb. 14, 1852; Alva is a sailor; Jane married Wallace White, and lives in Tippecanoe Township; John married Mary Ellen Coburn, and lives in Mt. Pleasant; Moses L. died in April, 1833; Rodolphin and Rodolphus, twins, born March 22, 1833, died in infancy; Levi is our subject; Caroline and Cornelia, twins; the former married Jesse Smith, and lives in Russell County, Kan.; the latter married Dr. S. D. Cook, and lives in Sigourney, Iowa.

Levi Higgins, the subject of this sketch, was but four yeas of age when the family came to Henry County. He spent his early days in Mt. Pleasant, and there learned the blacksmith trade, at which he worked until the breaking out of the Civil War. Responding to the country's call for troops, he enlisted on the side of the Union in the 4th Iowa Cavalry, Company C. The company was under fire during the following engagements: Guntown, Helena, Memphis, Columbus, Mechanicsburg, Little Blue River, Brownsville, Ripley, Tupelo, Yazoo River and St. Francis River. He was boss blacksmith of the regiment and served four years. After the war Mr. Higgins returned to Mt. Pleasant and resumed blacksmithing, continuing in this until 1867. He then bought a farm near his present one, residing there for three years, at the expiration of which time he sold that farm, purchasing eighty acres of land on section 22, Tippecanoe Township, where he still resides. In connection with general farming Mr. Higgins is engaged in blacksmithing, and is one of the best blacksmiths in the country round. Politically he affiliates with the Republican party, for which he is an indefatigable worker, and takes an active interest in all political affairs. Mr. and Mrs. Higgins celebrated their marriages in 1866. Her maiden name was Nancy Ghalson, and she was a native of Iowa, and was born in Appanoose County, Jan. 5, 1843. Seven children have blessed the union of this worthy couple - Charley, John, Fred, Erwin, and Emma, the only daughter of the family, are still living. Those deceased are Carrie and Clarence.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 468.)

ENOCH S. HILL, deceased, was an early pioneer of Henry County, Iowa, and one of the most active, influential and respected citizens of this region. He was born near Trenton, N. J., April 8, 1802, and was the fifth in the family of nine children. His parents were Richard and Elizabeth Hill. The father was born in New Jersey, Sept. 27, 1759, and died Nov. 3, 1826. The mother was born Oct. 10, 1777.

Enoch S. Hill was trained from his boyhood to mercantile pursuits in his father's store. About 1825, he engaged in merchandising for himself in New York City, where he married, Jan. 30, 1827, to Miss Delia A. Stillwell, daughter of Dr. William Stillwell, a prominent physician of that city. Mrs. Hill's family history is peculiar and interesting. Her parents were of English origin and of noble blood. It is well authenticated that on her father's side the family were of the royal House of Stuart; that notwithstanding their consanguinity, they were of Cromwell's party, and one of them was even one of the regicides. On the accession of Charles the Second to the throne, three brothers of his family escaped to Holland; they had agreed with friends at home that a message of two words, "Still well," should be a token of their safety. The better to conceal their identity, they adopted the name to Stillwell. The brothers were Nicholas, Jasper and John, named in the order of their ages. The eldest brother married a Holland wife, and with his wife and two brothers joined a party of Holland emigrants and came to the New World in 1638. They landed in New England, where the second brother, Jasper, married, and founded the town of Gifford, Conn., in which place he died, leaving two daughters, who married to men named Graves, and were the founders of Hartford, Conn. The elder and younger brothers did not tarry in New England, but accompanied their friends to the Dutch settlement of Manhattan. Nicholas Stillwell, the eldest, settled on Long Island, where he reared a large family, and formed a colony of his own. John, the youngest, married a Holland lady and settled in Manhattan. He longed to visit his old home in England, and much against the advice and wishes of his brother, took his wife and only child, a daughter, back to England. He was soon recognized, arrested, and executed by being beheaded. His wife died of the shock, and the daughter, by the kindness of friends, returned to New York. She married a cousin, the son of Nicholas Stillwell, and from this union Mrs. Hill's father was descended. Her mother was a daughter of Maj. Saybrook, a son of Lord Saybrook, of England. Mr. and Mrs. Hill were blessed with three children, two sons and a daughter: William R., now a merchant of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa (see sketch); Jasper S. died at Trenton, N. J., Sept. 19., 1858; and Cordelia, who is the widow of Erastus Chamberlain, of Burlington, Iowa. Mr. Hill continued business in New York, where he was one of the leading merchants, until 1838, when he emigrated to Iowa. They landed in the night on the bank of Mississippi River at Burlington, then only a hamlet of log houses. The first night was spent in the open air, lying on buffalo robes. Mr. Hill spent two years in the mercantile business at Burlington, then, having purchased a tract of several hundred acres on the river about four miles below Mt. Pleasant, he removed there and built a sawmill and flouring mill, and made other substantial improvements. In 1842 he came to Mt. Pleasant, where he engaged extensively in mercantile business, having branch stores in neighboring towns. He also bought and improved real estate on a large scale. He was a man of broad views, financially and otherwise; was bold in business ventures, but sagacious. A man of large stature, and great physical and mental force, he pushed his enterprises with vigor. He was liberal in all matter of public welfare, contributed largely to the support of churches and schools, and all worthy matters of public interest. He was a Democrat of the old school, and believed in maintaining the laws made in accordance with the Constitution, whether he liked them or not. He was a good citizen, a kind husband and father. His death occurred at Mt. Pleasant, Jun 12, 1880. His wife survived him six years, dying Jan. 2, 1886. She was a remarkable woman. She possessed rare artistic genius, and was highly accomplished in many ways. Her skill in fancy work is attested by the the many beautiful articles of her handiwork now in possession of her daughter and daughter-in-law; while the many fine paintings, most of them works of her later years, prove her to have been an artist of superior talent. Her first portrait in oil was that of her husband, which is conceded by all his acquaintances to be a remarkable likeness. One small picture, a snow scene, was painted when she was eighty-two years of age. The perspective is good, and the execution fine. Mrs. Hill was not only a brilliant woman, but one of the best of wives and mothers.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 495-96.)

WILLIAM R. HILL, merchant, Mt. Pleasant, and a pioneer of Iowa of 1838, was born in New York City, May 9, 1834. His parents, Enoch S. and Delia A. (Stillwell) Hill, were also pioneers of Iowa. (See sketch.) Our subject accompanied his parents to Iowa in 1838, arriving in Burlington in the fall of that year. Two years later the family removed to Skunk River, four miles below Mt. Pleasant, and in 1842 removed to that city. Mr. Hill was bred to strict business habits, and was connected with his father in an extensive mercantile trade, as well as in other lines of business. He has been in business for himself almost continuously during the past twenty-five years.

Mr. Hill was married in Jerseyville, Ill., May 17, 1870, to Miss Catherine E. Snedeker, a daughter of Samuel and Harriet (Sunderland) Snedeker. Mrs. Hill was born in Trenton, N. J., and while in her infancy accompanied her parents to Jersey County, Ill. Her father and mother were both natives of New Jersey, and her mother's father was a prominent man in Trenton, where the family were among the earliest settlers and large property holders, the street on which they resided being still known as "Sunderland's Lane." Mr. Sunderland was descended from an old English family of that name. Her father was of Holland descent, though several generations were born in America. Mrs. Hill was educated at the Monticello Seminary at Godfrey, Ill., of which she is a graduate. She completed both the literacy and theological courses, and is as able to write a sermon as an essay. The strict habits of systematic industry acquired in that institution have fitted her for the successful discharge of tasks that would seem to great to be undertaken by any person of ordinary ability. She is a lady of superior accomplishments and culture, and possesses artistic talents of a high order. Her home and those of many of her relatives and friends are adorned by beautiful pictures and elegant fancy work, the result of her labors. She has a taste for the aesthetic and beautiful, and her home is attractive and interesting. Mr. and Mrs. Hill are the parents of three children, one son and two daughters. The son, John Snedeker, was born in Jerseyville, Ill., April 5, 1871. The eldest daughter, Irma Araminta, was born Dec. 11, 1875, and the younger, Harriet Adelia, was born March 19, 1878. Mr. and Mrs. Hill spent the first year of their married life in travel, and in 1872 located in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, where they have since resided. Mr. Hill has made many substantial improvements at Mt. Pleasant. He has built and still owns several good buildings in that city. He is the proprietor of a large double store, where he carries a general stock of dry-goods and groceries.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 494.)

EDWARD C. HINKLE, editor and proprietor of the Winfield Beacon, of Winfield, Iowa, was born in Calhoun County, Mich., Dec. 28, 1840. His father, Charles Hinkle, was born in Philadelphia County, Pa., in 1800. His mother, Lucy (Callender) Hinkle, was a native of Livingston County, N. Y.  When young people they emigrated to Michigan, where they were married, and where they only son, our subject, was born. Mrs. Hinkle departed this life in Michigan, and her husband was again married, to Lovina Chase. by this union two children were born, one living, Dora, and Laura, deceased. In 1855 Charles Hinkle decided to make Henry County his home, and located on a farm in Scott Township. He died in Henry County in June, 1882. A man of more than ordinary ability, delighting in reading, he kept well posted on all the affairs of his country. He stood high in the community where he resided, and was everywhere noted for his honest and upright life. His wife died in Winfield in 1885. They were both members of the New Swedenborgian Church. In politics, Mr. Hinkle was a Democrat, and a great admirer of Stephen A. Douglas.

Edward Hinkle received a common-school education. He was reared upon a farm and commenced life in limited circumstances. In 1864 he enlisted in the 12th Iowa Volunteer Infantry, Company C, and was mustered into service at Davenport, and from there proceeded to Cairo, and from thence via New York to Savannah, Ga., where he expected to meet the regiment. On his arrival at Savannah, he learned that the regiment was at Eastport, Miss., to which place he proceeded and joined his regiment. With the regiment he went to New Orleans and from there to Dauphin Island. He was afterward engaged in the sieges of Mobile and the Spanish Fort, and received his discharge at Mobile.

Returning home, Mr. Hinkle again engaged in farming until 1882, at which time he retired from that business and purchased the Beacon, which paper he has ever since conducted. He is a member of the Mort Hobart Post No. 280, G. A. R., and has acted as Adjutant since its organization. He has held several local offices and has been Town Recorder continuously since the town was organized. In June, 1884, the marriage of E. C. Hinkle and Franc Wise, a daughter of Morgan and Jane Wise, was celebrated. She was born in LaSalle County, Ill., and is the mother of a little daughter, Ethel. Although comparatively young in years, Mr. Hinkle has witnessed almost the entire development of Henry County, and has the universal respect of all her citizens. As an editor, he has shown considerable talent, the Beacon being one of the best local papers in this section of the State.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 478 & 481.)

WILLIAM HOBART, one of the early settlers of Henry County, Iowa, was born in Ireland in 1792. When a young man he came to America, and located in Oneida County, N. Y. He was united in marriage to Miss Achsah Ingram, and in 1850 they emigrated to Illinois, settling in McDonough County. In 1856 they removed from that county, coming to Henry County, Iowa, and settled on section 18, Scott Township. Mr. Hobart was an enthusiastic Republican, and gave six sons for the service of his country. Mr. and Mrs. Hobart were the parents of eight children, who grew to maturity: Frederick enlisted in Company F, 17th Iowa Volunteer Infantry, served but a short time, and was discharged for disability; Milo enlisted in the 124th Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and is now pastor of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church at Mt. Pleasant. Harriet became the wife of Hugh Wilson, of McDonough County, Ill.; William K. enlisted in the 1st Iowa Infantry, Company F., and three months afterward he became a member of the 17th Iowa Volunteer Infantry, serving until the close of the war, and participating in all the engagements of the regiment; he is now a carpenter, residing in Mt. Pleasant. Franklin was a member of the 1st Iowa Volunteer Infantry, and when his term of service expired he re-enlisted in the 17th, serving until the close of the war; Mortimer became a member of Company G, 11th Iowa Volunteer Infantry, and was killed at the battle of Shiloh, being the first to fall from Scott Township. The G. A. R. Post of Winfield took its name from him. Joseph was also a member of the 17th Iowa Infantry, Company F. He was mustered into service, and participated in the following engagements: Iuka, Sept. 19, 1862; second battle of Corinth, Oct. 4, 1862; Ft. Gibson, May 10, 1862; Raymond, also in May, 1862; Champion Hills, May 16, 1862; the siege and capture of Vicksburg, where he was under fire forty-six days; Missionary Ridge, in November, 1863; Tilton, Ga., where his regiment defending a bridge against Hood, was captured. He, with his regiment, was taken to Catawba, remaining there two weeks, from there to Milan, also remaining there two weeks, then subsequently to Savannah, where they were run down to Blackshire, in the Oak Fire Swamp for two weeks. Sherman was following them up, and they were taken down the gulf road to Thomasville, then to Andersonville, where they were confined from the 25th day of December until the 28th of April following, suffering all the hardships of that most horrible prison. While in prison the war closed, and Mr. Hobart was set at liberty. He returned to Davenport, where he was mustered out May 26, 1865, and subsequently returned to his home in Henry County. Jenny, the eighth child of William Hobart, is the wife of Isaac Byers, of Lincoln, Neb. William Hobart died in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, in 1873, and his wife is still living in McDonough County, Ill.

Joseph Hobart was united in marriage, in 1867, with Miss Anna Wilson, a daughter of Jacob and Matilda (Marsh) Wilson, both of whom were natives of Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Hobart are the parents of seven children: Alice, born Oct. 26, 1868; Rozelma, born Dec. 9, 1870; Ada, born March 15, 1872; Franklin, born April 27, 1875; Viola, born March 3, 1877; Corda, born Nov. 5, 1879; Georgia, July 31, 1883. Mr. Hobart has a fine farm of eighty acres on section 18, Scott Township. He is a member of the G. A. R. Post and Commander of the same. In politics he is a stanch Republican. He is serving his second term as Assessor. Mr. Hobart has witnessed the changes which have transformed Henry County from a wild prairie to one of the finest counties in the State. He and his estimable wife have the respect and confidence of all who know them, and as citizens none rank higher.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 488 & 491.)

NATHANIEL HOBBS, residing on section 16, Tippecanoe Township, Henry County, is a native of Washington County, Pa., born April 14, 1830, and is a son of Nathaniel and Elizabeth (Hamilton) Hobbs, the father a native of Maryland, and the mother of Virginia. When Nathaniel was a lad of seven, his parents emigrated to Know County, Ohio, residing there until the spring of 1844. They then came to Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, and his father purchased 140 acres of wild land, on which he made extensive improvements, and resided there until his death. At the age of seventy-two, Aug. 12, 1862, he was called home. His widow still survives, and is residing with her son-in-law, Isaac Walker, in Tippecanoe Township. If she should live until March, 1888, and in al probability she will, having excellent health for a lady of her age, she will be eighty-four years old. Mr. Hobbs, Sr., was a carpenter by trade, and was scrupulously honest in all his dealings. It was his pride to make his word respected by everyone, and none knowing the man ever doubts his sincerity. Politically he was a Democrat, and always took an active interest in all public affairs. At his death he had considerable property, all of which was made by his own labor, having commenced life a poor boy. To this worthy couple were born eight children, six of whom are still living. They were: John, who died in 1853, at the age of twenty-eight, leaving a wife and four children, who are still residing on a farm in Warren County, Iowa; Mary Ann, wife of Jacob Baltzley, residing in Shawnee County, Kan.; Nathaniel, our subject; Albert, living in Center Township, Henry County; Isabel, who wedded Harvey Willeford, of Stockton, Cal., and died in that city in May, 1887, at the age of forty-six; Rachel, widow of Merritt Welch, is residing in Tippecanoe Township; Henrietta, wife of Isaac Walker, also lives in Tippecanoe Township, and Amanda, wife of David Norton, a farm of Washington Territory.

Nathaniel Hobbs, the subject of our sketch, was reared upon a farm, but in early life learned the trade of plasterer. On the 30th of November, 1865, he was joined in marriage with Lydia Roark, a native of Indiana. Her parents were Theodore and Phoebe (Smith) Roark, both of whom were natives of Cincinnati, Ohio. To this union four children have been born: Louisa, wife of Warner Freeman, residing in Tippecanoe Township; Phoebe, wife of LaFayette Housel, also of Tippecanoe Township; John Wesley and Cora May are still inmates of the paternal home. Mr. Hobbs is one of the enterprising and prominent farmers of Tippecanoe Township. Financially he is a self-made man, and is the owner of one of the finest farms the county, consisting of 211 acres. he has always done his part in all educational and other enterprises for the common good of the county. He and his estimable wife are sincere Christians, and earnest workers for their Master, and we gladly welcome them to a place in the history of Henry County.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 515.)

EDWIN HOBSON is one of the earliest settlers of Henry County, Iowa, and was born in Morgan County, Ind., in 1835. His parents were William and Sarah (Dyson) Hobson, both natives of North Carolina, who emigrated at an early day to Ohio, where they lived five years, subsequently removing to Morgan County, Ind., residing there until the fall of 1839, then emigrated to Henry County, Iowa, settling on section 22 of Tippecanoe Township. Here the father bought 160 acres of raw land, and engaged in farming until the time of his death, which occurred in 1869. Mrs. Hobson is still living, in Albia, Iowa. She was born Jan. 10, 1800. Mr. and Mrs. Hobson had a family of nine children: Corwin, who died at Hannibal, Mo., was a cooper by trade, and had an extensive business; Elmira, wife of Charles Lyons, residing in Sedgwick County, Kan.; George, now living in Jefferson County, Iowa; Mary, the deceased wife of James Nichols, of Mercer County, Ill.; John, now living in Jewell County, Kan., was one of the brave boys in blue who fought so valiantly for the Union; Edwin, of Henry County; Samuel departed this life in Albia, Iowa; he was a merchant, and served as a soldier during the late Rebellion. Eliza, deceased; Calvin, a merchant in Clarinda, Page Co., Iowa, was a soldier in the 4th Iowa Cavalry.

Our subject was reared on the farm where he now lives, and was educated at the district schools of his township. He has lived here continuously since the year of 1839, with the exception of two years, which he spent in Lee County, where he was engaged in farming. He was united in marriage, Aug. 16, 1856, to Mary Winslow, a native of North Carolina, and a daughter of John and Mary (Smithers) Winslow, both natives of North Carolina. Mr. and Mr. Winslow came to this county in the year 1850, settling in Salem Township, where they lived until 1874. They then removed to Cowley County, Kan., at which place they both departed this life, the mother going to her final rest in 1881, and the father in 1882. They were both devoted Christians, being members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Mr. and Mrs. Hobson have been the parents of four children: Flora Ellen, born Nov. 13, 1858, is the wife of Emerson Martin, and is now living in Winfield, Kan.; Elmira, born April 14, 1861, is the wife of H. C. Cooper, of Salem Township; Nolan C., born May 14, 1863, died in infancy; Edgar, born May 11, 1874, is at home. Mr. and Mrs. Hobson are members of the Missionary Baptist Church, taking an active interest in all church work. Mr. Hobson owns forty acres of land under a fine state of cultivation. He is one of the oldest settlers of the county, is universally respected, and has the confidence and good-will of all. Politically, he belongs to the Union Labor party.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 518 & 521.)

EDWARD HOCHREITER is a prominent farmer residing on section 9, Scott Township, on the original homestead. Dec. 5, 1851, he, the eldest son of Bartholomew Hochreiter, was born. He was reared and educated in this county and is one of the few men of his years who is yet in possession and residing upon a part of the lands which have descended unentailed to the children of a pioneer, who braved all the vicissitudes of a new country to make a home for his family in the great Northwest.

Our subject was not sitting idly by while the virgin soil was being put under cultivation, but in his early years aided largely in the work. As he grew to manhood he became noted as a prince of good fellows, and no social gathering was considered complete without his presence. Possessed of a fine voice and ever ready to entertain with vocal music, he achieved quite a reputation as a comic vocalist, and many of the old citizens and young ones too, relate with glee how "Ed" used to favor them with productions "rich, rare, and racy." Literary societies were his especial pride, and in the furtherance of the benefits to be derived from that source, he was one of the  most important factors. Although a man of mature years now, he is still as fond of amusements as in the old-time days, when his witty repartee and good humor made him the center of all the gatherings for social pleasure in the neighborhood.

The marriage of Mr. Hochreiter to Miss Julia Felgar was an event of considerable importance in the neighborhood, he thus becoming a part of the more solid element in society. She was the daughter of Samuel and Lucretia (Trout) Felgar, who emigrated from Westmoreland County, Pa., at an early date int he history of this county. They settled near Trenton upon a farm at least forty years ago, and remained upon the same farm until the death, which occurred in 1887. Samuel Felgar died June 1, and his wife intended to make her home with Mr. Hochreiter, but she, too, sickened and died August 2. She reached her seventy-fifth and he his eightieth year. Both were highly respected people. They had nine children: Catherine married Peter Black, and resides in Champaign County, Ohio; Margaret is the wife of John Marquis, of Clarke County, Iowa; Elizabeth is the wife of Washington Mullen, one of the best known and most influential men of Scott Township; Mary wedded William Morehouse, of Trenton Township; John deceased, married Jane Evans, who had for her second husband Hamilton Brewington; Samuel resides in Trenton Township; Henry died in 1863; Jacob died in infancy; and Julia, wife of our subject.

The marriage of Edward Hochreiter was celebrated Dec. 5, 1872, the same day that he became of age, Rev. Bradrick, a Methodist Episcopal minister, performing the ceremony at the home of the bride in Trenton Township. They have two children - Vernie M., a daughter of fourteen, and John, who died in infancy. In 1877, the young couple moved into a handsome country residence, erected by Mr. Hochreiter, exactly opposite the spot upon which he was born, and here they live amid happiness and plenty. Mr. Hochreiter is a successful farmer, and since his boyhood the attractive village of Winfield has been platted, has grown to respectable dimensions, and three railroads pass within sight of his home, one of which crosses a part of the original homestead. We gladly give this gentleman and his family a place in the history of his native county.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 508.)

JOHN H. HOCHREITER is a farmer of Scott Township, residing on section 9. We present with pleasure the biography of the youngest son of the first settler of Scott Township. He was born Oct. 26, 1854, and is a son of Bartholomew and Eliza C. (Keen) Hochreiter, daughter of Gen. W. C. Keen, who served in the War of 1812, un der Commodore Perry. She was twice a widow before she became the wife of Mr. Hochreiter, to whom she was married in Burlington. He was first married in Philadelphia, Pa., and removed to Lancaster, Ohio, remaining there ten years, from whence he emigrated to Monmouth, Ill., where he was a pioneer settler. In the spring of 1836 he again took up the line of march for the farm now owned by our subject. Bartholomew had previously visited this State, and the natural beauty of the country so pleased him that he laid a claim upon 240 acres, and built a log house upon the site of the elegant farm residence recently erected by his son. Arrangements being thus completed, Mr. Hochreiter returned to Monmouth for his family, which consisted of his wife and four children. Slowly they wended their way through the country where but few roads were laid out, and none of the creeks bridged, but full of the enterprise and enthusiasm which prevailed among the pioneers of this new country. The work of development of a farm was not to be compared to that in the country of his birth, where great trees, stumps and stones were to be removed. Coming in the springtime, opportunity was given for breaking ground, and that year a crop was planted and harvested. This was the first in the township and was perhaps raised upon the lands now the property of his son Edward.

After residing in the new country for about ten years, the death of his wife occurred, and the lady before mentioned later became his wife, and three children were born to them: Edward, husband of Julia, daughter of Samuel Felgar; Caroline, who died in infancy; and our subject. After living many years an honored and respected citizen of Henry County, all that was mortal of Bartholomew Hochreiter was laid to rest on the farm which he had first claimed, then entered and improved. He gave the lands for a cemetery upon his farm and several bodies were interred, but the property is again vested in his son. Bartholomew Hochreiter was aged eighty-two, and his wife survived him three years and died at the age of sixty. He was born in Bavaria, and while yet a young man came to America. He was an early official of Scott Township, and was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Winfield. Mr. Hochreiter was liberal in purse and sentiment, and gave freely for the support and erection of churches in the neighborhood. With his demise came universal regret at the loss of a valued citizen, a loving husband and a kind father.

Our subject was educated in Scott Township, and grew to manhood upon the same farm that he now owns. He wedded Miss Edith C. Latta, their nuptials being celebrated Dec. 24, 1879, at the home of her grandfather, Moses Latta, of Scott Township. She was born in Ross County, Ohio, and is the daughter of William M. and Mary (Teeter) Latta, both natives of Ohio, where Mr. Latta was a farmer. He was one of the brave men whose life was given for his country, a member of the 89th Ohio Infantry. At the bloody battle of Chickamauga he was captured, taken to Andersonville Prison, and after a torturing confinement of more than a year death came to his relief, leaving his poor, emaciated body a sacrifice to the country he loved, and a monument which spoke volumes against the cruelty and inhumanity of those who in history have been christened fiends incarnate. He was the father only of the wife our subject, and his widow afterward married James W. Trimble, of Ross County. She became the mother of two children - Lizzie and John. The first wedded Alonzo Wilhite, of Saline County, Mo.  Mrs. Hochreiter, at thirteen years of age, became an inmate of the home of her paternal grandfather, who educated and cared for her until her marriage, and gave with pleasure to our subject a wife of whom he may well be proud.

In one of the cosiest of home, where music and everything that makes home inviting and pleasant may be found. Mrs. Hochreiter reigns as a model hostess. Only one son, Edward, born Dec. 12, 1880, has graced the union. With the respect due the pioneer father, and as a fitting tribute to a worthy son, the publishers offer this brief sketch to the good people of Henry County, knowing it will meet with a cordial reception, and give a correct account of the settlement and enterprise of a family, one of the best known in Scott Township.

(Portrait and Biographical Album, Henry County, Iowa; Acme Publishing Company, Chicago, 1888, p. 497-98.)