~ James E. Bailey ~

James E. Bailey, one of the leading old settlers of Poweshiek, Jasper County, Iowa, was born in De Kalb County, Ind., March 25, 1842. His parents were Benjamin and Katherine (Rowe) Bailey, both natives of New York, who came to Indiana soon after their marriage. In 1850 they removed to Poweshiek Township, when this country was still inhabited by Indians, and at a time when game of all kinds, including buffaloes, was abundant. They located one hundred and sixty acres of the best prairie land and at once energetically set about making a home in the new country; they soon added by purchase to their original holdings, and in an incredibly short time were possessed of a comfortable farm and surrounded with all the luxuries to be had in the region. Neighbors were few and far between, and the nearest mill, thirty-five miles distant, at Red Rock, afforded the only means of procuring flour, and required a journey of three or four days to make the round trip. Mrs. Bailey died in 1869; her husband survived her sixteen years and died in 1885, at the age of eighty- four. Only two of their ten children lived to maturity, James E. (the subject of this sketch) and Thomas B.

James E. Bailey was educated in the country schools of this (Poweshiek) township, and remained at home in the family of his parents until the organization of the Fortieth Iowa Infantry, in 1862; when he enlisted in Company D of that regiment under Captain Cozad and Col. E. G. Garrett. His regiment served mostly in the Western Division, in the Sixteenth Army Corps. He participated first in the siege of Vicksburg, later in the battles about Little Rock, Ark., and finished his services in the army at Jenkins' Ferry in Arkansas. He volunteered as a private and served in that capacity throughout the war, and was discharged at Davenport, Iowa, in August 1865. He now draws a pension of $30 per month. Previous to entering the army, he had purchased eighty acres of prairie land for $250, and to this he returned as soon as his country no longer needed his services, and devoted himself to the improvement of his land. He still owns and occupies this property, but has doubled his holdings. He now has a finely improved farm of one hundred and sixty acres, with a dwelling house and home conveniences that compare favorably with any of his neighbors, while his barns and farm outbuildings bespeak the successful farmer and careful husbandman.

In 1866, after his return from the army, he married Miss Jane Dempsey, a native of Indiana and a daughter of Perry and Sarah (Hall) Dempsey, farmers, who came to Iowa in 1864 and settled in Polk, the adjoining county, where they still reside. Besides Mrs. Bailey, the members of Mr. Dempsey's family were Annie, wife of William Reagan; William H.; Mary, deceased, who was the wife of Milton Coe; Lydia A., the present wife of Milton Coe, and Eugene.

Mr. and Mrs. Bailey lost their eldest son, William P., by a distressing accident on the railroad at Colo, Story County, Iowa, in 1892. They have ten living children: George, a resident of Story County; Lucy, wife of William Chaffin, of Polk County; Myra, Marion, Jesse, Mary, Elzada V., Sarah, Harriett and Laura. Mr. Bailey is a member of E. D. Duncan Post, G. A. R., at Colfax. Page 354.

~ David Baker ~

David Baker, one of the prosperous farmers of Mingo, Poweshiek Township, Jasper County, was born in Franklin County, PA, October 9, 1826. His parents were John and Magdalena Baker, both of whom were natives of the same state. The great-grandfather of David Baker settled in Pennsylvania before the Revolutionary War, and doubtless took an active part in the defense of his adopted country; he reared a large family, the records of which have been lost. Conrad Baker, ex-Governor of Indiana, was a first cousin of the subject of this sketch.

John Baker, the father of our subject, was a miller by trade, and settled in Wayne County, IN, where he followed his calling until his death, which occurred March 21, 1840. He reared a family of ten children. Jacob, the eldest, died, and his family has become scattered. John, the second son, left a family, the members of which are now living in Wayne and Henry Counties, IN; Elizabeth, deceased, was the wife of M. Wright; the younger members of their family now reside in Indiana and Ohio. Polly, deceased, was the wife of George Gephart, whose family resides in Indiana; Nicholas lives in Des Moines, Iowa. George, deceased, was a Bishop of the Dunkard Church; his family lives in Altoona, Iowa; Conrad resides in Des Moines, Iowa; Samuel is deceased; David, the subject of this sketch, was the ninth child; and Joseph lives near Altoona. The mother of this family died in 1877, at the age of eighty-seven years.

David Baker was educated in the common schools of Ohio and Indiana, and began life on his own account at the age of fourteen years, shortly after the death of his father. His first effort was in learning the trade of a plow-maker at the shops of Adam Condo, in East Germantown, IN. He soon acquired a thorough knowledge of the business and established shops of his own in the same town, where he continued in the trade for four years, when he sold his business and removed to Oskaloosa, Iowa, in the fall of 1854. In the spring of the next year he came to Nicely Grove, in this township, two and a-half miles west of Mingo. Milton Edwards, John Sames, Solomon Dickey, E. W. Galoway and Richard Barker were the only neighbors within a radius of three and a-half miles. Game of all kinds, except buffaloes, was abundant, and there were in the country some friendly Indians. Here he entered at the Government price of $l.25 per acre quite a large tract of land, which he has since sold at about $5 per acre. In 1856 be moved to the site of the present village of Greencastle, and he and his brothers located the town. Joseph Baker, his brother, opened a store with a fine line of dry goods and groceries, in which a flourishing business was done. David established a blacksmith shop, and the brothers together built the first sawmill that was erected in this part of the county. The town grew and prospered for a number of years, or until the Chicago & Great Western Railroad drew off the trade to the larger centers.

David Baker, after a residence of one year in the village of Greencastle, removed to the farm, which he now occupies, consisting of two hundred and seventy-five acres, which he has reduced by sales to its present dimensions of two hundred acres. This farm he now has all under fence, and devotes the greater portion of it to pasturage it being of more advantage to him for stock raising purposes than if cultivated. He has about four hundred head of Poland China thoroughbred hogs, all of his own raising, and is a large shipper of pigs for stock breeding purposes. He was licensed as a preacher in the Evangelical Church in 1865, and for a number of years was a preacher of that faith, but in 1892 joined the Methodist Episcopal Church.

In 1846 Mr. Baker married Miss Annie M. Secrist, daughter of William and Elizabeth (Hashour) Secrist, all of German descent and natives of Pennsylvania. Mr. Secrist was a miller by profession and died in Wayne County, IN. His wife is living, at the age of eighty-four years, and makes her hone with Mr. and Mrs. Baker. Their seven children are: Anne, now Mrs. Baker; William; John, of Kokomo, IN; Elizabeth, wife of Doctor Taylor, of Wayne County, IN; Samuel, deceased; Matilda, widow of A. M. Tenant of Kokomo, IN; and Sarah, deceased, wife of Mr. Newby, of Indiana.

Mr. Baker has never been a politician and takes no active part in any of the campaigns. He is, however, a strong Republican and a firm believer in the principles of that party. Mrs. Baker is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The five living children of the seven that have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Baker are, Theodore A., a resident of this county; Mary, wife of R. C. Everet, a merchant of Mingo; Emma, wife of Charles Harrop, of this township; Lincoln, also a resident of this township; and Horace Sumner, of Mingo. p. 172.

~ James Baker ~

James Baker, who is numbered among the early settlers of Jasper County, now resides on section 4, Sherman Township, where he owns three hundred and eighty acres of rich land that he has placed under a high state of cultivation. He turned the first furrow upon it, and, in fact, improved one hundred and twenty acres of it, which when it came into his possession was in its primitive condition. The result of his labors is now seen in one of the finest farms of the county, which in its neat and thrifty appearance indicates to the passer-by the careful supervision of the owner.

Mr. Baker is a native of Sussex County, England. He was born April 28, 1835, and is a son of William and Mary (Hall) Baker, who were also born in that country. His mother died when he was about seventeen years of age, and his father when he was about twenty years old. William Baker, with our subject and four daughters, crossed the Atlantic to America in 1855, taking passage at Liverpool on the sailing-vessel "Gosport," which after a voyage of nine weeks reached the harbor of New Orleans, but ere their arrival the father had died, and was buried in the sea. Our subject and his sisters went to Adams County, Ill., where he worked by the month as a farm hand for a number of years. In the fall of 1864 he came to Jasper County, where he continued to work as a farm hand for two years. He then located on the farm where he now resides.

On the 18th of October 1866, Mr. Baker was united in marriage with Mrs. Martha Dawson, widow of Jeremiah Dawson, one of the early settlers of this county. By her first husband she had three children, one of whom is yet living, Louisa. Mr. Dawson was a soldier of the late war, and died at St. Louis from sickness contracted in the service. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Baker have been born five children: Mary, wife of Bert Beals; Lillie, Josie, William and Frank. The mother is a native of Hart County, Ky., born February 15, 1840, and is a daughter of Washington and Susan (Linder) Logsdon, who were also natives of Kentucky. Her maternal great-grandfather was one of the heroes of the Revolutionary War. In the autumn of 1848 she came with her parents to Jasper County, Iowa, the family locating in Independence Township. They were early settlers, and the father entered land from the Government. He and his wife finally removed to Jasper County, Mo., where his death occurred in 1884. His widow, however, is still living in that county.

Mr. Baker is a prominent member of and active worker in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is now serving as Steward and Trustee. The cause of education finds in him a warm friend, and he has done effective service in its interests while serving as School Director. For many years he has also served as Road Supervisor of his district. In politics he is a Republican, and supports the men and measures of that party. Mr. Baker is alive to the best interests of the community, and does all in his power to promote the general welfare, giving his hearty support and cooperation to those enterprises, which he believes will advance the public good. His worth and ability are recognized by his fellow-townsmen, who hold him in high regard. Page 435.

~ Lyman M. Baker ~

Lyman M. Baker, Trustee of Newton Township, is one of the heroes of the Civil War, to whose valor we owe the preservation of the Union and the liberty of all its people. He came to Iowa in 1868 and purchased the farm where he now lives, and where he has since engaged in general farming. During the entire period of his residence in Jasper County he has been closely identified with its progress, and has contributed his quota to its development.

In Moscow, Somerset County, on the Kennebec River, Me., the subject of this sketch was born March 24, 1837, being a son of Allen and Lucy (Russell) Baker. The paternal grandfather, Reuben Baker, was born in Massachusetts in 1770, and was the son of Barnabas Baker, whose birth occurred at Yarmouth, Mass., February 23, 1734. The family was represented in America at an early period in the history of this country, for we find that Francis Baker came from England in the "Planter" in 1635. He was born at St. Albans, Hertfordshire, England, in the year 1611, and settled at Yarmouth, Mass. He was the great-grand- father of Barnabas, who was the great-grandfather of our subject.

This Barnabas Baker was a Tory during Colonial days, and when the war for independence was being waged, he still adhered to his Tory principles, on which account he found it convenient to go to Nova Scotia. When peace was declared, he returned to the States and settled at Litchfield, Me., where he died. The father of our subject, Allen Baker, was born in Litchfield in 1795, and was the eldest of four brothers. A farmer by occupation, he followed that vocation until his death, which occurred in the state where he was born. His wife bore the maiden name of Lucy Russell, and was of old Revolutionary stock and of English ancestry. Her father, Joseph Russell, was born at Lexington, Mass. December 6, 1763, and was the son of Ephraim, likewise a native of the Bay State.

When a boy in his teens, Joseph Russell was one day in the field driving the oxen for his father, when they heard the sound of musketry at Lexington, a short distance away. The father said to Joseph, "The devil is to pay in Lexington. You put out the oxen, I am going to town." Joseph had brothers as follows: Ephraim, Luther, Solomon and Calvin. Solomon did valiant service in the Revolutionary War from the firing of the first gun until the conflict was ended, when he was honorably discharged with a Lieutenant's commission. Calvin also served throughout the entire war, while Joseph, who was a mere boy at the breaking out of the war, enlisted later, and did good service for the independence of his country.

After the war ended, Joseph Russell married Betsey Goodrich, who was born in Fitchburg, Mass., and was one in a family of nine children. Her father, Joshua Goodrich, who was also a Revolutionary soldier, was born August 10, 1746, and married Elizabeth Phelps, December 28, 1769. His grandfather's name was also Joshua Goodrich. He was born February 7, 1708, and married Miss Lydia, daughter of John Stearns, their union resulting in the birth of nine children. The ancestry is still further traced back to Philip Goodrich, who was born November 23, 1669, and died January 16, 1729. He was a Deacon in the Congregational Church. He was the son of Jeremiah Goodrich, who was born March 6, 1638, being the son of William Goodrich, the original emigrant to the New World, and a native of Suffolk County, England. The year of his arrival in America was 1636. The family name has since undergone some changes, for we find that it was originally spelled Guthridge. William Goodrich settled at Mt. Auburn, Mass., and had a family of four children, of whom Jeremiah was the second.

Thus briefly we have traced the genealogy of the Baker and Goodrich families through the different generations for nearly three centuries. The subject of this sketch is one of a family consisting of six sons and three daughters, all of whom reached years of maturity with the exception of two. Horatio Bardwell enlisted during the Civil War in a Maine regiment, and was severely wounded during his active service. He is now living near the old homestead in Maine. Levi G., another brother of our subject, became a member of the Ninety-third Illinois Infantry from Neponset, Ill., and was killed at the battle of Champion Hills, May 16, 1863.

In his youth Lyman Baker had the advantages of an academic education, and taught school in Maine for a time. In the spring of 1860 he came west to Illinois, and taught school in Neponset. On the 20th of August, 1862, he enlisted in Company H, Ninety-third Illinois Infantry, and with his regiment took part in the battle of Jackson, May 14, 1863; the battle of Champion Hills, May 16, 1863 (in which his brother Levi G. was shot dead at his side); and was also present at the siege of Vicksburg, where he was constantly under fire. For meritorious conduct there, he was promoted to Sergeant, and while officiating in that capacity took part in the battle of Missionary Ridge and Altoona Pass, October 5, 1864.

This was the young Sergeant's last engagement, for soon afterward, not far from Altoona Pass, he was taken prisoner while conveying supplies to the Quartermaster at Atlanta. This was on the 18th of October. After being held in different places for a time, he was sent to Andersonville, where he was confined until March 28, 1865, and then was sent to Jacksonville, Fla. There he was liberated April 18, 1865, and at Springfield, on the 23d of July following, was honorably discharged. After the close of the war, he returned to Neponset, Ill., where he engaged in farming until 1868. He then came to Iowa and purchased the farm where he now lives.

In January, 1867, Mr. Baker was united in marriage with Miss Mary W. Goodrich, who was born in Moscow, Me., in 1839, being a daughter of Levi G. Goodrich, and a descendant in direct line of the Goodrich family whose genealogy is given above. Mr. and Mrs. Baker have had six children, three of whom died in childhood. Austin A., now a student at Cedar Falls, Iowa, is preparing himself for the profession of a teacher; and the others are Jay L. and Eva M.

In politics, Mr. Baker has always been a Republican. His father was a Whig and an advocate of the abolition of human slavery. As above stated, Mr. Baker is serving as Township Trustee, and he has occupied other positions of trust. Socially, he affiliates with the Grand Army of the Republic, and is a charter member of the post at Neponset, Ill., one of the first organized in the United States. In religious connections, he and his wife and family are identified with the Congregational Church. Page 486.

~ Samuel J. Baker ~

Samuel J. Barker, one of the most successful hotel men of Colfax, was born in New York January 22, 1848, and is a son of Samuel and Rhol1a (Pratt) Barker. His parents came to Iowa in 1864, and here the father, who was a merchant by occupation, carried on an extensive mercantile establishment and also engaged as a dealer in real estate. His death occurred in 1866, and his wife passed away in 1869. They were the parents of ten children, of whom the following are living: Lucretia Emeline, Cerantha, M. V., W. V., S. J., Miranda and Eunice Louisa.

In the schools of New York and Iowa, Samuel J. Barker received his education, and was graduated from the Commercial College. For several years he was engaged in the mercantile business, but as this was distasteful to him, in 1881 he retired from that occupation and accepted the position of manager of the Hotel Grand, where he built up an enviable position as a hotel man. For nine years he was thus engaged, and as "mine host" was well and favorably known by the traveling public. In 1870 he was united in marriage with Miss Emerett Morgan, a native of New York, and a daughter of John and Mary A. Morgan. Mr. and Mrs. Barker are the parents of two children, Sherman and Alfred, both of whom are living.

Politically our subject is a Democrat and a most ardent advocate of the principles of his chosen party. He is not solicitous for official position, preferring the quietude of domestic life unharassed by public duties. Page 593.

~ Hon. John P. Beatty ~

Few of the citizens of Jasper County are more widely and none are more favorably known than the gentlemen with whose name we introduce this sketch, and who was formerly a member of the State Legislature. At the present time he is engaged in farming and stock raising, being the owner of one of the most valuable farms in Newton Township. No enterprise has been originated in this community since the date of his arrival to which, when assured of its beneficial results, he has not given his cordial support and warm sympathy, and he has contributed his quota to the progress of the county. He aided in the organization of the First National Bank of Newton, of which he has been a Director from its inception.

Born in Fayette County, Ohio, December 8, 1828, our subject is tile son of Alexander N. and Margaret C. (Ewing) Beatty. The Beatty family is of Scotch-Irish ancestry, and was prominently connected with the Presbyterian Church in Scotland prior to the religious revolution, but at that time they left the country and settled in the North of Ireland. Capt. John Beatty, our subject's grandfather, emigrated to America just before the War for Independence, settling not far from Lewistown, Pa. Commissioned a Captain in General Washington's army, he gallantly wielded a sword through the entire war, taking part in fourteen of the principal battles of that bloody conflict, as well as participating in many small engagements. He was twice married, and reared a large number of children. In 1809, accompanied by his family, Captain Beatty removed to Fairfield County, Ohio, where he opened up a farm in the wilderness and endured all the hardships incident to life on the frontier. He died in Fairfield County in 1823. Alexander Beatty, the father of our subject, was one of the children of his father's first marriage, and was born in Pennsylvania in 1797. His mother, a Scotch lady of much culture, died when he was small, and, therefore, we can learn but little of her family history. A half-brother of Alexander is now living at Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, at the age of eighty-five years (1893). For many years an influential businessman, he is now living retired. One of his sons, James H., is a Federal Judge in Idaho, residing in Boise City.

After his marriage, Alexander Beatty settled upon a farm in Fayette County, Ohio, where he continued to make his home until his death, April 12, 1878. He was a pronounced Abolitionist, and many a poor runaway Negro found in him a true friend. He was known to have an underground station for their protection. A man of decided opinions, he always possessed the courage of his convictions, and was an influential citizen of his community. The mother of our subject was the daughter of Capt. Thomas Ewing, who was of Scotch-Irish ancestry, and won his title for meritorious service in the War of 1812. She was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1807, and died in February 1856.

In the parental family the subject of this sketch was the fourth in the order of birth. One of his sisters died when a young lady, and a brother died in infancy. Jane Elizabeth married Thomas D. Rodgers; the latter, who is deceased, was a resident of Highland County, Ohio. Margaret married James Campbell, and died at the age of twenty years. Clara A. married James E. Kerr, who died in Missouri; she now resides at Helena, Mont. William A. died in February 1839, when but three years of age. Nancy Emily became the wife of Rev. Robert Westcott, a prominent Presbyterian minister residing in Clarinda, Page County, Iowa. James A. served as private in the Eighty-first Ohio Infantry for three years, participating in the siege of Atlanta and accompanying General Sherman on his memorable march to the sea; he now lives in Ohio, where he owns a part of the old homestead, his birthplace. Calvin O. also owns a part of the old home place, where he now resides. The sons, like their father, are all radical temperance men, and are identified with the Prohibition Party.

The gentleman of whom we write was reared upon his father's farm, and in his youth had limited advantages, attending school but two years prior to his twenty-first year. He then entered the academy at Albany, Athens County, Ohio, where he spent two years. Afterward he taught school in the wintertime and worked on his father's farm during the summer seasons until he was twenty-seven years of age. In September 1856, he married Miss Phebe E. Condit, who was born in New Jersey and was for many years a successful teacher, in which profession she engaged at the age of sixteen.

In the winter of 1855-56, Mr. Beatty made his first visit to Iowa, and purchased some land not far from his present farm. In the spring of 1858 he came here to make for himself a home. July 4 of the same year his wife died, leaving a son only a month old, and a year later he died. October 11, 1860, Mr. Beatty married Miss Elizabeth J. Kerr, of Ross County, Ohio, the daughter of a well-to-do farmer of that county. They have had six children, namely: Margaret, the deceased wife of G. R. Harrah, and a young lady of culture, who had a fine musical education; James A., who is married and lives on a part of his father's farm; Robert K., who married Mary Morgan, of Davenport, and is a traveling salesman, living in that city; Minnie and J. Benton (twins), the former being the wife of Dr. A. B. Palmer, of Newton, and the latter marrying Miss Lillie McKonkey and residing with his father on the farm; and Esther, a talented young lady and a student in the Newton Academy.

As a farmer and stock-raiser, Mr. Beatty has for years been prominent, and in the industrious pursuit of his vocation he has accumulated a competence sufficient to provide handsomely for his children and also retain enough for his old age. He was reared under a strong Abolition influence, and later cast his lot with the Republican Party. In 1871 he was nominated for the State Legislature, to which position he was elected, serving with great credit to himself and to the satisfaction of his constituency. For five years be was a member of the County Board of Supervisors, and for a long time has served as Justice of the Peace. He has also held the other township offices. In religious belief he is a Congregationalist, and his wife is also identified with that denomination, in which for many years he has been a Deacon. A lifelong friend of temperance, an honorable man, a public-spirited champion of progressive measures, he is one of those quiet, unassuming Christian gentlemen who have given character to the great west. Page 285.

~ William Beynon ~

William Beynon, a farmer and stock raiser of Palo Alto Township, Jasper County, residing upon section 10, was born in Wales on the 21st of June 1836. He is a son of William and Sarah (Griffith) Beynon, also natives of Wales, whom, in 1853, he accompanied to America. They took passage at Liverpool on a sailing-vessel, "The Middlesex," and after a monotonous voyage of nine weeks reached the harbor of New York City. Thence they proceeded immediately to West Virginia, and in that state William engaged in coal mining for a number of years.

In 1857 Mr. Beynon made the long journey to California, proceeding from New York by steamer to Aspinwall, thence across the Isthmus of Panama, and from there up the Pacific Ocean to San Francisco, Cal. For about eighteen months he engaged in mining for gold, meeting with fair success in his speculations. During the great gold excitement in British Columbia he journeyed to that country, and traveling up the Frazer River, started to engage in mining, but was prevented from so doing on account of an Indian outbreak. Being unable to prosecute his labors in South America, he returned to the United States, taking a steamer to Washington Territory, where for one year he engaged in mining for coal. Subsequently he returned to the east via the Panama route.

After residing in Ohio for a short time, Mr. Beynon went to Kentucky, and there, in 1861, he married Miss Eliza Lewis, a native of Wales. Six children have been born of this union: Benjamin L., Joseph G., William H., Rees, Sarah A. and Abraham G. Mr. Beynon continued to reside in Kentucky until 1863, when he removed to southern Illinois, and from there, in 1866, went to Montana. In l868 he came to Jasper County, Iowa, and has since that time been a resident of Palo Alto Township, where he owns one hundred and forty acres of finely improved land. His success in life may be attributed to his untiring energy and ceaseless industry, combined with good judgment and shrewd discrimination. In his youth he had very few advantages, and in his native land he was a student in the pay school until he was twelve, since which time his education has been gained trough observation and experience. He has always been a thoughtful reader concerning events of local or national importance, and possesses intelligent opinions upon every subject of general interest.

As may be gleaned from the above, Mr. Beynon has been an extensive traveler, especially throughout different portions of the United States, and being an intelligent observer, he is an interesting conversationalist and pleasant companion. He possesses the thrift of his Welsh ancestors and the acumen and shrewd discernment gained by contact with the American people. From an unimproved place he has converted his farm into one of the most valuable estates in the county, a monument to his industry and good management. Though not a partisan in his political preferences, he is faithful to the interests of the Democratic Party, and always supports the principles and nominees of that organization. Socially he is identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Newton. p. 246.

~ Oliver J. Blackledge ~

Although he has resided in Palo Alto Township but a comparatively brief period, Mr. Blackledge has lived in Jasper County throughout almost the entire period of his active life, and he is, therefore, familiarly known to the majority of his fellow-citizens. Now in the prime of life, he has secured, through his unaided efforts, a large amount of success, and both as a farmer and a citizen has gained the confidence of his associates. His home is pleasantly situated on section 25, where he owns and cultivates two hundred acres of arable land.

A native of Jay County, Ind., the subject of this sketch was born July 15, 1852, being a son of Jason R. and Mary (Paxton) Blackledge, who were born in Ohio. He was a child of four years when brought by his parents to Jasper County, and here he has since resided. The family became early settlers of Elk Creek Township, whence, some years after locating there, they removed to Buena Vista Township, and later went to Newton, Iowa, where the father and mother still make their home, being now advanced in years. He is a prominent man in the town and is a devoted adherent of the People's Party.

The family of which our subject is a member consists of six surviving children, namely: Oliver J., Lindley, Eugene S., Owen S., Gertrude and Mattie. Oliver J. was reared to manhood in Jasper County, and in his youth assisted in clearing the land and tilling the soil, which he plowed with oxen. After completing the studies of the common schools, he entered Hazel Dell Academy, at Newton, where he conducted his literary studies for two years. Afterward he engaged in teaching school for two years, and upon abandoning that profession accepted a position as a clerk in a mercantile establishment in Newton, where he remained for some time.

The first marriage of Mr. Blackledge united him with Miss Ernie Turck, the wedding ceremony taking place in October 1874. One son, Virgil, was born of this union. In March 1877, Mr. Blackledge was united in marriage with the estimable lady who now bears his name and who presides with gracious hospitality over his pleasant home. She bore the maiden name of Lizzie Moler and has always been a resident of Jasper County, where she still lives. She has three children: Zeller O., Thad L., and Janet N. In the spring of 1888 Mr. Blackledge settled upon the farm where he has since made his home.

Since coming to Palo Alto Township our subject has been prominently identified with political affairs as a leader in the People's Party. He has served as Township Trustee for three years, and has occupied other positions of responsibility, where his ability and energy have been instrumental in promoting the interests of his fellow-citizens. In his religious connections he is an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and a faithful worker on behalf of that denomination. He has officiated as Sunday-school Superintendent, and is a prominent worker among the children. He is meeting with success as an agriculturist, and, richly merits the confidence of the community and the high regard of his acquaintances. Page 423.

~ Joel R. Blakely ~

The life of this honored citizen of Jasper County furnishes an example of what may be accomplished by persistence, sagacity and industry. His career, in its practical results, is an encouragement to every struggling young man who has ambition, resolution and a genius for hard work. Although many years have come and gone since, mourned by all, he departed this life, his name has not been forgotten. His memory is still green in the hearts of his companions of days gone by, and the knowledge of his honorable life is an incentive to the young people, by whom be was personally unknown.

At the time of his demise, Mr. Blakely was the owner of one hundred and eighteen acres of land, located in Palo Alto Township. He was a native of Ohio, having been born in Knox County on the 29th of January 1830, to the union of Hugh and Catherine Blakely. He was reared to a sturdy manhood amid rural scenes in the Buckeye State, and received his education in the pioneer schools of the district. On the 30th of December 1852, Mr. Blakely was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Frizzell, who was born in Knox County, Ohio, January 27, 1834. She was a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Borum) Frizzell, natives of Maryland, the former having been a brave soldier in the War of 1812. Mrs. Blakely was reared and married in Knox County. Though in girlhood she had few advantages, she is a cultured lady, having availed herself of every opportunity for acquiring knowledge.

Seven children were born to the union of Mr. and Mrs. Blakely, of whom five survive, namely: Sanford O., James H., Alice M., who is the wife of Isaiah Foltz, Silas F., and Luella, who married C. O. McLain. Of the children born to the parents of Mrs. Blakely six now survive: James, John, Catherine, Mary, Anna and Elizabeth. In 1854 Mr. Blakely, accompanied by his wife and child, migrated to Iowa and settled in Muscatine County, where he sojourned for three years. From there he moved to Cedar County, Iowa, where he engaged in farming pursuits for a number of years.

Coming to Jasper County in 1867, Mr. Blakely settled on the farm where his widow now resides. Upon the attractive homestead he there established, he remained, engaged in agricultural pursuits until his death, which occurred June 18,1875. Throughout this community he gained the reputation of being a man of strict integrity and the utmost probity. In his relations with his fellow-citizens, he was considerate, thoughtful and kind, ever willing to help those in need and encourage those in distress. In his domestic relations he was especially tender, affectionate and devoted, and his death, though deeply mourned by all who knew him, fell with the heaviest shock upon his wife and children.

A Republican in his political affiliations, Mr. Blakely was a stanch advocate of that political organization, and contributed liberally of his time and means to the promotion of every project calculated to benefit the community. In his township and county he occupied a number of important positions. He served as Trustee of Palo Alto Township, and also filled the position of Justice of the Peace. In him the cause of education had a friend, stanch and true. He was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and of him it may truthfully be said that he led a sincere, exemplary Christian life. His widow is also identified with the Methodist Church, and is highly regarded by all who know her. Page 288.

~ Henry A. Bohne ~

Henry A. Bohne, who has been a resident of Jasper County since 1881, is numbered among the successful farmers of Malaka Township and is the owner of two hundred and seventy acres of well-improved land. He is of German parentage, his father, John Hammond Bohne, having been born in Prussia in 1810, and spending the years of his boyhood upon a farm in that country. Like the majority of German lads he was well educated in the splendid Schools of his native land, and his parents being in good circumstances, he had in many advantages denied to other boys.

In 1838 John H. Bohne emigrated to America and for three years worked by the month upon a farm in New York, after which he operated as a renter there until 1850. After his marriage to Eliza M. Mader, a native of Prussia, he conducted a grocery store in the city of New York. In 1855 he removed to Wisconsin and settled upon a farm in Manitowoc County, which he had bought in 1848. There he remained until 1888, when death terminated his useful career. His wife had passed away in 1873. They were prominently identified with the German Reformed Church, and were a worthy and highly esteemed couple. He was a man of considerable influence in his community and was an active worker in the ranks of the Democratic Party. As a result of his energy and perseverance he became the owner of two hundred acres, upon which he placed a series of first-class improvements.

In the parental family there were the following named children: Henry A., of this sketch; Fred and Herman, who live on the old Wisconsin homestead; Rosina, the wife of Jacob Loose; Elizabeth, who married John Rhinamann and lives in Wisconsin; Annie, Amelia and Mrs. Margaret Fiddler, who live in Wisconsin. There were three other children, who died in infancy. The eldest member of the family, Henry August, was born in New York March 12, 1847; he spent part of his youth in the country, and later went to the city of New York.

Establishing domestic ties at the age of twenty-four, Mr. Bohne then married Miss Caroline, daughter of Fred Schnathorst. They have become the parents of ten children, all at home, and named as follows: August, Henry, John, William, Fred, Herman, Charles, Rosina, Lena and Mary. For six years Mr. Bohne resided upon an eighty-acre farm in Wisconsin, which he had purchased with the savings of years. As above stated, he settled in Jasper County in l881, and here, as a result of his energy and industry, he has attained success and a rank among the prosperous farmers of Malaka Township.

A Democrat in politics, Mr. Bohne has served in a number of local offices, including the position of Township Clerk, to which he was elected in 1893. At the present time he is serving as President of the Township School Board, and being interested in educational matters, he has been instrumental in advancing the standard of education in his district. He is a Director in the Farmers' Mutual Fire Insurance Company. In his religious belief he is identified with the Congregational Church, in which he is officiating as Trustee, and to the support of which he is a liberal contributor. p. 236.

~ W. F. Boyd ~

W. F. Boyd was born in Carter County, Tenn., June 8, 1840, and is a son of J. R. and Elizabeth (Boyd) Boyd. His father was of German ancestry and was born in White County, Tenn., about 1818, being the eldest of five brothers. The name of the original emigrant or the exact date of his arrival in this country, we do not know, but it is known to be before the Revolutionary War. As far as we have been able to trace the family in this country we find them in Tennessee, where doubtless the first representative in America made settlement. Both the paternal and maternal grandfathers of our subject served in the War of the Revolution.

Though a resident of Tennessee, the father of our subject was not a slave owner; in fact, he was opposed to human slavery. In politics he was an old-line Whig; in religious belief, he was a member of the Methodist Church, in which he was an active worker. His wife was born in Carter County, Tenn., about 1822, and was a member of an old Scotch family. In 1852, Mr. Boyd brought his family north to Illinois, where he settled in Sangamon County, about twelve miles from Springfield. In 1857 he came to Iowa and settled on the farm now owned by our subject, and located in the northern part of Jasper County. There the wife and mother died in May 1882, and the father in September 1890.

Our subject is the next to the eldest in a family of ten children, of whom all but one brother and one sister are living. Cornelia L. married Leonard Booth, who was killed in Polk County, Iowa; she afterward married John Simpson, and died in Polk County; her son, James A. Booth, now resides in Springfield, Ill. George W. has a meat market in Nevada, Story County, Iowa; Harriet J. married John W. Hendricks, and after his death she became the wife of Holdon Gist; her third husband, John Clements, is a farmer residing five miles west of Newton. Nathaniel T., a private in Company B, Thirteenth Iowa Infantry, participated in the battles of Iuka find Corinth and died during his service at Marietta, Ga.; Eva, widow of William Harsh, resides near Newton; Mary E. married D. W. Clayton and lives in Nevada, Story County, Iowa, where he is engaged in the lumber business; James I. is a resident of Des Moines; Ellen married C. F. Ordoway and lives in Le Mars, Iowa; J. H. is a prominent attorney and land agent at Nevada, Iowa.

Although his advantages for obtaining an education were limited, our subject early applied himself to his studies, making use of every spare moment, and in this way he provided himself with a good store of knowledge. For some time he was a teacher in the public schools. His first work for himself was at the age of eighteen years, when he began to work out on a farm for fifty cents per day. In that way he earned sufficient money to pay for his first forty acres of land. In July 1863, he married Miss Cynthia A. Newhouse, who was born in Michigan, being the daughter of Jonathan Newhouse, a prominent farmer, and for some years Justice of the Peace.

After his marriage Mr. Boyd taught school and also worked on his farm. Being an excellent financier, he has accumulated a large fortune and is now recognized as one of the wealthy men of the county. He has been more or less interested in local politics and is a staunch Democrat. For three years he filled the office of Deputy County Treasurer. In the fall of 1891 he was a candidate for the position of County Treasurer, and had previously been a candidate for Sheriff and County Supervisor. While he has always been ahead of his ticket, the Republican majority has been too great for him to secure an election on the Democratic ticket. He has served his township as Assessor and has been chosen to fill the responsible position of Postmaster at Newton. A free and forcible writer, for many years he was a correspondent for different papers, but his attention has been devoted principally to his life occupation, that of a farmer and stock-raiser. He still continues to superintend his farm, although since 1887 he has resided in Newton.

Mr. and Mrs. Boyd are the parents of three sons. Charles E., a graduate of the Newton High School, Baltimore Medical College and Cleveland Medical College, is a rising young physician, and is now filling the head place in the University Hospital at Cleveland, Ohio; he is an active member of the Christian Church. Walter, who was educated at the high school of Newton, is a printer by trade and is employed on the State Democrat, at Newton. Alva L., the second of the three boys, died when he was eleven years of age. Though not identified with any religious organization, Mr. Boyd attends the Christian Church and contributes liberally to its support. His wife, a noble Christian woman, is actively identified with that denomination. The first deed ever recorded in Carter County, Tenn. was the deed from William Sharf to William Boyd in 1796, the latter being a great-grandfather of our subject. p. 247.

~ Julius Brod ~

Julius Brod, a successful farmer of Jasper County residing on section 18, Mound Prairie Township, was born in France in 1836. He immigrated to the United States in 1853, and for a time resided in Illinois. In 1861 he enlisted as a private in the Union Army, becoming a member of Company G, Third Missouri Infantry, and at the expiration of his term of service was mustered out, in 1864. He again enlisted, this time becoming a member of Company G, Thirty-second Illinois Infantry, in which he served until the close of the war. During the long period of his service he was often in the thickest of the fight and in the greatest peril, and three times minie balls passed through his clothes. As a partial compensation for his services he is now in receipt of a pension of $24.

Mrs. Nancy (Fisher) Brod was born in Indiana April 16, 1828. Her parents were natives of Kentucky, and her father was a hotelkeeper and slave owner. She was the sixth in order of birth among nine children and was reared to womanhood in the place where she was born. She was first married in Brookville, Ind., and by that union became the mother of nine children, of whom five died in childhood and youth. Those surviving are John, Nancy M., Sarah, the wife of Patrick Smith, and Eliza, who married William Thomas.

Mr. and Mrs. Brod were married in 1879, two years after the advent of the former in Iowa. She is the owner of a finely improved farm of forty acres, upon which have been erected suitable farm buildings. In religious belief she is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with which she has been identified since the age of sixteen years. Page 612.

~ Brodersen, Peter ~

Peter Brodersen, Trustee of Palo Alto Township and a prominent agriculturist of Jasper County, is a native of Denmark, having been born in that country the 20th of February 1842. He is a son of Christian and Botilda Brodersen, who, like himself, were born in Denmark. He was reared to maturity in the land of his birth, where he gained a faired education in the Danish language. Since coming to this country he has acquired a good knowledge of the English language, which he speaks fluently.

In 1865 Mr. Brodersen immigrated to the United States, taking passage at Hamburg on the steamship "Teutonia," and after an uneventful voyage of thirteen days landed in New York City. Thence he came direct to Iowa, and for about three years was employed on a farm in Scott County. In 1868 he came to Jasper County, where he worked on a farm for one year. He then purchased forty acres located on section 34, Palo Alto Township, where he resided for a number of years. From that place lie removed to section 35, Palo Alto Township, where be has since made his home. He has added to his original tract until he is now the owner of two hundred and eighty four acres of highly cultivated land. By industry and good judgment he has accumulated valuable landed property, and is now numbered among the well-to-do farmers of the county.

On the 17th of December 1869, Mr. Brodersen was united in marriage with Miss Caroline Wulf, a native of Prussia, and their union has resulted in the birth of eleven children, viz.: Christian, Henry, Augusta, Ella, Mary, Lena, Lewis, Arthur, Elmer, Carrie and Mabel. The children have been the recipients of excellent educational advantages, and are intelligent and well informed. Socially, the family is highly esteemed, and its various members are welcome guests in the best homes of the county.

In his political affiliations Mr. Brodersen has given careful study to the local and national issues of the day, and supports the principles of the Republican Party, which he believes are best calculated to promote the welfare of the people. He and his wife are active members of the Lutheran Church, to the support of which he is a generous contributor, and in which he has officiated as an Elder. As Trustee of the township he labors indefatigably in the interests of the people, and has contributed materially to the advancement of the community. For one year previous to his present term he served as Trustee, having been appointed to fill a vacancy.

Among the natives of other countries who have emigrated to the United States and established permanent homes in Iowa, few are worthy of more conspicuous mention than should be given to the subject of this sketch. He possesses the integrity and energy of a long line of Danish forefathers, and these qualities, combined with industry and economy, have contributed to his present prosperity. He is a man who makes a science of his chosen occupation, and is thoroughly informed upon everything pertaining to agriculture. Page 256.

~ B. W. Brown ~

It is men of broad and comprehensive views who give life to communities and build cities, men who in the darkness of adverse circumstances, as well as in more favorable periods, look beyond the clouds, and have the pluck, energy and foresight to push forward their enterprises, extend speculation and fairly wrest success from calamity. Just such a man is B. W. Brown, who is one of the prominent businessmen of Prairie City, Iowa. He is a native of Connecticut, born in North Stonington April 4, 1836. His father, Cyrus W. Brown, was born in the same place, as was also the grandfather, Cyrus W. Brown. The Brown family came originally from England, and date their history in America back to the landing of the Pilgrims. The grandfather was a soldier in the War of 1812, and participated in the battle of Stonington.

The father of our subject was born in 1806. For half a century he was an extensive hide and wool merchant, in which he made a fortune, and was a man of superior attainments, being well educated and well posted on all subjects. For many years he was a member of the Connecticut Legislature, and was quite a power in local politics. He held several important offices, and for many years was a Deacon in the Baptist Church. Broad in his views, honest in the extreme and charitable to a fault, he was not known to have had an enemy in the world. His death occurred in Connecticut in 1875. He had but one brother, who was accidentally burned to death when small. He married Miss Elizabeth S. Babcock, a native of North Stonington, Conn., who was also descended from old Puritan stock. She was a very devout Christian, and a member of the Baptist Church. She read the Bible through seven times in her life, and few were better posted on Biblical subjects. Her death occurred in 1886, when eighty years of age.

B. W. Brown was one of ten children, seven sons and three daughters, born to the above-mentioned couple. All but one of these are now living. C. H. is a wealthy businessman in Boston, Mass. Emily E. married Thomas W. Wheeler, of North Stonington, who served in the Legislature of Connecticut for several terms and also as Probate Judge, and is quite a prominent man in his locality. Louise married Dr. E. R. Lewis, and they both died in Rhode Island; their son, Edward R. Lewis, is a prominent physician in Westerly, R. I., and a graduate of Harvard. Gideon P. was for several years engaged in the wool business, and for some time was the treasurer of a large woolen mill at Providence, R. I.; at present he is the superintendent of a large paper mill.

Thomas S. is a provision dealer at Brookline, Mass. John B., who was a soldier in the Civil War, was promoted to the rank of First Lieutenant and served three years; he is now a merchant at Westerly, R. I. Ellen married Allen Barber, a stockman of Lincoln, Neb. William, who was formerly a provision dealer in Brookline, Mass., left that state, and the last heard of him he was in Australia. James S. is a wool merchant at Stonington, Conn. And is now proprietor of the North Stonington Stock Farm, and is a very wealthy man.

In the schools of Stonington our subject received his education, and when eighteen years of age he went to Hartford, Conn., where he clerked in a store for some time. Later he embarked in the grocery business on his own account in that city and continued this for five years. During the war he sold out and came west to Jasper County, Iowa, locating four and a half miles east of Prairie City, where he engaged in farming and stock raising. In this he continued for sixteen years, and in 1880 he was elected to the Board of Supervisors, serving as such for four and a-half years. He was then elected Auditor of Jasper County, and held that position for four years. During this time he lived in Newton, and after retiring from the last mentioned office he located on his farm, where he remained for two years. With others, he then established the State Bank of Prairie City, and was its first Cashier. One year later, his other business enterprises becoming so pressing, he resigned, sold his farm, and has since devoted his time to his poultry business, being one of the largest shippers in the state.

In the year 1860 Mr. Brown married Miss Almyra McGlaflin, of Hartford, Conn. Her father, James McGlaflin, enlisted in the army and was never heard of after the first battle. Mrs. McGlaflin accumulated a fortune of $20,000 running a first class boarding house in Hartford. Mrs. Brown's only brother, Charles, also enlisted in the army, was wounded and died from the effects of the same. He held a Lieutenant's commission. Her only sister, Laura A., the widow of Charles H. Gilbert, is now a teacher in the schools of Hartford. Mr. and Mrs. Brown have had three children. Lee E. is assistant cashier of the First National Bank of Newton; Minnie L. has completed her education and is at home; Benjamin W. is now in school. Mr. and Mrs. Brown are members of the Baptist Church at Hartford. He is a Mason and a Knight Templar in that order. Page 266.

~ William Brown ~

William Brown, a prominent farmer and stock-raiser of Jasper County, residing on section 4, Palo Alto Township, is a native of Ayrshire, Scotland, and was born on the 3rd of March 1838. He is a son of James and Agnes (Wilson) Brown, likewise natives of the "land or thistles." In the country or his birth he was reared to man's estate, and at the age of twelve years commenced to work in a coal mine, where he was employed for some time.

During the year 1865, Mr. Brown immigrated to the United States, accompanied by his family taking passage at Glasgow on the steamer "United Kingdom." After a voyage of more than two weeks duration, the family landed in New York City, and from there proceeded directly to West Virginia, residing in that state twelve months or more. Thence they removed to Maryland, and from that state, in the fall of 1868, came to Jasper County, Iowa. For many years Mr. Brown engaged as a coal operator in company with Andrew Stewart, and also conducted an extensive business as a coal miner, the partnership continuing until 1883, at which time our subject's eldest son purchased Mr. Stewart's interest. The name of the corporation was the Newton Coal Company. Subsequently, in 1886, our subject retired from the firm and leased the machinery to other parties.

In 1881 Mr. Brown commenced to operate a farm, and has engaged as an agriculturist continuously to the present time, having greatly improved his place by the erection of suitable buildings and the introduction of modern improvements. He is the owner of one hundred and nineteen acres, all under good cultivation. In connection with farming, he has engaged for some years in raising English Shire draft horses and Shorthorn cattle, some of which are registered. His horses are fully equal to the best imported, if not, in fact, superior to them. He has sold many of these horses and has a number on his place for sale at the present time.

In Scotland, October 26, 1860, Mr. Brown was united in marriage with Miss Jane, daughter of Robert Boyd, of Ayrshire, Scotland. Of this union there have been born eleven children, of I whom the following seven are now living: James; Robert B.; Agnes, wife of David McAllister; Jane, who married J. L. Johnson; Mary, Clara and Matthew. The family was deeply bereaved when on the 6th of March 1882, the devoted wife and mother passed away. She was a devout member of the Presbyterian Church, and her many estimable qualities won for her the affection of all who knew her, so that she was mourned not only by her immediate relatives, but also by tile people of the township where she resided.

Politically Mr. Brown is a Populist. For two years be served as Justice of tile Peace and has also filled other positions of responsibility and trust. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church and while residing in Maryland served as an Elder in the church. He has been successful in life, as, is attested by his valuable farm property. What he has gained is attributable to his untiring energy, not to the aid of fortuitous circumstances. In childhood he had few advantages, and his education was limited to a brief attendance in the pay schools of Scotland and also in the night schools of this country. Page 332.

~ Alexander H. Buchanan, M.D. ~

Alexander H. Buchanan, M. D., is prominent among the physicians of Jasper County, and is the owner of valuable property in Independence Township, where he resides. His father, George Buchanan, was a native of Pennsylvania, and at the age of nineteen was graduated from the Jefferson (Pa.) College. Proceeding to the sunny south, he arrived in Alabama with fifty cents in his pocket, but with an abundance of hopefulness, energy and determination. In that state he secured a position as tutor in a prominent southern family, and spent the following sixteen years in Alabama engaged in teaching. He married Miss Elizabeth Bragg, a native of France and a relative of tile famous Captain Bragg. She died when our subject was quite young.

Many years before the opening of the Civil War, the Buchanan family left Alabama, and, proceeding to Ohio, settled upon a farm in Ashland County, where the senior Mr. Buchanan engaged in farming and stock raising. While still living in Alabama, he conducted a plantation in connection with his professional work. Politically a Democrat, he was, however, opposed to slavery. He was a second time married, choosing as his wife Miss Rosena Miles, a native of New York, who bore him nine children. Of his first union there was only one child, Alexander H., of this sketch.

Born in Alabama, near the city of Montgomery, January 1, 1830, our subject was brought north by his parents at the age of five years, remaining in Ohio until he attained his majority. After conducting his literary studies in the Haysville School, he engaged in teaching school for two successive winter seasons. He then entered the Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia, and in 1858 was graduated from that institution. Opening an office at Haysville, he conducted his practice there for a short time, after which he was located successively at Newville, Lucas and Mifflin. In 1876 he removed to Newton, where be became identified with various important real estate interests.

In 1854 the Doctor purchased from the Government three hundred and ten acres, which, however, he did not commence to clear and improve until 1877. In 1883 he removed to this place, upon which he conducted extensive farming operations, adding to his landed possessions from time to time, until he is now the owner of seven hundred and two acres in Independence Township. His success is the result of his energy and perseverance, and in all his undertakings he has displayed excellent judgment and sound common sense. He was deeply bereaved when, in 1876, his devoted wife passed from earth. This estimable lady bore the maiden name of Irene I. Wade, and was born in Ohio, being a daughter of Thomas and Priscilla Wade. She was a lady of nobility of character and amiability of disposition, and was very popular among her acquaintances. They have had two children. Wade, died aged one year. Estella Virginia was educated at the Immaculate Conception College, of Davenport, Iowa. She married George M. Hunter, and they make their home in Omaha.

So far has Doctor Buchanan been removed from the ordinary seeker after office that he has put it away from him when tendered. However, he has been active in his efforts to secure the service of able and honorable men for places of usefulness and trust. In his opinions he is a Democrat, and always supports the men and measures of that party. In business, political and social circles he is everywhere esteemed for his admirable qualities. Page 321

~ Samuel D. Butters ~

Samuel D. Butters, who is by nature with such gifts as characterize true r manhood in all that the word implies, is descended from an honorable ancestry, his family tree taking root on American soil in the Colonial days of Virginia, to which region his ancestors came from England. The grandfather, John Butters, was born in England, and while on his way to this country with his parents and sister the parents died, and he and his sister landed in this country orphans. Very little more is known of the family history. The grandfather settled in Virginia, where he accumulated considerable property, but subsequently moved to Highland County, Ohio, where he was among the early pioneers. There his death occurred. He was the father of four sons. Samuel made his home in the Old Dominion and was a mill owner; he was accidentally killed by the discharge or a revolver during the Civil War. James, who was a prominent farmer, went to Ohio and resided in Highland County; he was a man of considerable ability and was quite a politician. George came from Ohio to Prairie City, Iowa, at an early date and died in this city. He was single.

The father of our subject was born in Virginia about 1804, and moved with his parents to the Buckeye State. In 1856 he came to Iowa and purchased land in Prairie City, but later engaged in merchandising in that place, becoming quite wealthy. He was prominent in local politics and held the office of Township Trustee, Justice of the Peace and other offices. His death occurred in 1873. He married Miss Susan Head, a native of Highland County, Ohio, born about 1806. She was the daughter of Biggar Head, who was a native of Pennsylvania, a pioneer of Ohio, and a soldier in the War of 1812. He had three sons and one daughter. William W., who went to Illinois, was prominent as a local politician; he had two sons in the Civil War, one of whom was an officer. Biggar J. first went to Illinois, then to Iowa, and finally to Missouri, where he died; he had two sons in the Civil War. The third child born to Mr. Head was of a roving disposition. He left home and nothing further was ever heard of him. The Heads were all Methodists. Mrs. Butters died in Prairie City.

Samuel D. Butters was next to the eldest of six children, four sons and two daughters. Wilson H. served in Company K, Twenty-eighth Iowa Infantry, and died at Island No. 10 during service; William died in early manhood; John H. was also a soldier in the Civil War, and died at Island No. 10. Our subject was born in Highland County, Ohio, July 17, 1830. On the farm in Ohio he passed his early life, and his scholastic training was received in the primitive log schoolhouse of the day. He selected his wife in the person of Miss Margaret Conaway, a native of Maryland, and the daughter of Nimrod Conaway, who was a wagon maker by trade. At an early date Mr. Conaway moved to Ohio, where he now lives, being eighty-four years of age. He has been a prominent man in the Methodist Episcopal Church and for many years was Class-leader. Mrs. Butters had one brother, John T., who served in the Rebellion three years, and is now a farmer of Ohio.

In the year 1856 Mr. Butters and family moved to Iowa by team, and settled on a farm of one hundred and four acres near Prairie City. From that time on he added to the original tract until at one time he was the owner of six hundred acres. For some time he was engaged in merchandising, and was induced to accept the Presidency of a bank at Prairie City. In this he invested heavily, but a number of years later it suspended through the mismanagement of its cashier. In this Mr. Butters lost heavily, but was not entirely ruined, and is now fast getting on his feet again. At present he is living quietly on his farm adjoining the town, where his home has been for many years. He takes a deep interest in public matters and is a prominent local politician. He served as County Supervisor, was Township Trustee, and is now Justice of the Peace.

Mr. and Mrs. Butters are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is one of the Trustees of the same; for twenty-five years he has been an Odd Fellow, a member of the Grand Lodge and District Deputy Grand Muster. To his marriage have been born eight children, seven of whom are living. Sarah C. married Jacob Holdefer and resides in Prairie City; John lives in Prairie City; Ira is in California; Amanda S. married I. M. Kingdon, a hardware merchant of Yale, Iowa; Riley N. lives in Prairie City; Emma, Frank L. and Anna are at home. Page 377