~ Bailey, Lyman ~

Lyman Bailey, a successful agriculturalist of Richland Township, was born in Harrison County, Indiana, February 18, 1844. His parents were Joseph and Elizabeth (McCoy) Bailey, the family coming west in 1870, and locating in Jasper County. Our subject was married July 4, 1876, to Evaline Meredith. Her parents were James and Phylena (Sweet) Meredith, who located in Jasper County in 1848. Mr. and Mrs. Bailey are the parents of eight children, all of whom are living. August 6, 1862, Lyman Bailey enlisted in Company A, 102nd Illinois Infantry, and served until June 5, 1865; was mustered out at Washington, D. C., and discharged at Chicago June 14th. During his service he participated in the battles of Buzzard Roost, Resecka, Peach Tree Creek, and Atlanta, Georgia, and many other minor engagements. Politically, our subject is a stanch supporter of the Republican Party, and has held numerous township offices, including that of constable, which he held for twelve consecutive years. Socially, he is a member of the United Brethren Church. Page 27

~ Bailey, W. E. ~

W. E. Bailey, of Section 27, Independence Township, was born in Jasper County May 5, 1872. He is the son of William and Eleanor Bailey, who were early pioneers of Independence Township. Mr. Bailey is an extensive breeder of Short Horn cattle, breeding the most fashionable strain, and the Oak Grove herd have become well known throughout the County. He has young stock for sale at all times of either sex, and solicits correspondence. Page 20

~ Baker, D. F. ~

D. F. Baker, residing on Section 36, Clear Creek Township was born in Muscatine County, Iowa, November 1, 1846, and became a resident of Jasper County in 1869. His parents were Harvey and Harriet (Freeman) Baker, natives of Ohio. They settled in Iowa in 1845, and are now deceased. Our subject was united in marriage September 2, 1873, to Jane E. Crawford. She was born in Ohio September 8, 1852. Two children were born to them: Walter C., born March 26, 1876, and died March 31, 1900; Coral H., born December 5, 1877. Mrs. Baker passed from the scenes of this earth March 20, 1896. When Mr. Baker started for himself, his father gave him about $1,200.00, but by judicial management he has increased this several-fold. He now owns 585 acres, which he has brought to a high state of cultivation, and on which he has erected one of the most comfortable and best-appointed houses in that part of the county. Politically, our subject believes in the principles of the Republican Party, and takes an active interest in all matters pertaining to the welfare of the state and county. Page 31

~ Baldwin, Eugene H. ~Photo

Eugene H. Baldwin, farmer, stock feeder and dealer, residing on Section 30, Clear Creek Township, was born in Ira, Jasper County, December 22, 1867. He is the son of Mirtlow and Sarah (Rowe) Baldwin, natives of New York and Connecticut, respectively, who became pioneers in Jasper County, locating here in 1855. His wife was born in Clear Creek Township September 18, 1870, and became the wife our subject March 21, 1893. They are the parents of three children: Ethel, deceased; Ila Lucile, and Claude M. He now owns 209 acres of Jasper County soil, all of which has been accumulated by his own efforts. Politically, he affiliates with the Republican Party. Socially, he and his wife attend the Christian Church. Page 35

~ Baldwin, Mirtlow ~Photo

Mirtlow Baldwin, living retired in Newton, was born in New York April 6, 1838. He is the son of Newton and Jane (Tucker) Baldwin, natives of Vermont and Connecticut, respectively. Our subject left New York in 1842, and located in Crawford County, Pennsylvania. We next find him in Indiana. In 1845 he went to Michigan, and in 1855 he located in Jasper County. He was married October 5, 1865, to Sarah Jane Rowe. They became the parents of two children: Mary E., Mrs. Wm. Jennings, and Eugene H. Page 28

~ Balmer, J. C. ~

J. C. Balmer is the son of James and Maria J. (Dow) Balmer, and resides on Section 34, Kellogg Township. He was born in Mariposa Township in 1871, his parents having resided in the county from 1867. Our subject has grown to manhood in Jasper County, receiving his education in the schools of the County in which he was born. He takes an active interest in the affairs of the County, and is an enterprising citizen. He was united in marriage to Dora Hill. They are the parents of four children: Everett J., Bessie E., Olive B., and Russell H. Our subject has beheld Pythagoras, but does not claim to possess the knowledge acquired by that honored gentleman. Page 27

~ Balmer, James ~

James Balmer, who is now living a retired life in a comfortable home in Newton, was among the settlers of 1867, locating in what is now Mariposa Township. If we could go back, however, nearly half a century, or to 1857, we could see a rugged Scotch lad of seventeen starting to make a history, a home and a fortune for himself. It was at this date that our subject came from his native country, and cast his lot among the settlers of Scott County. His first work was picking corn or threshing, generally walking from three to four miles to his work, and receiving twenty-five cents per day for his labor, and no certainty that the money he received would buy its face value, when the time came to use it. The first four years he worked by the month during the summer season as a farm hand, receiving from nine to fourteen dollars per month, and in the winter, instead of being idle and paying board, as many of the young men did, young Balmer could buy a patch of timber, which he would convert into posts and cord-wood, and when an occasional straight-grained stick was found, it was laid aside, and later split into smaller pieces to be used for wagon spokes. Working the timber up in this manner turned him quite a revenue and when spring came, instead of having used his summer's wages, he had laid by a few dollars to add to his summer's surplus. August 29, 1864, Mr. Balmer was united in marriage to Maria J. Dow, a native of Ohio, who had come to the state with her parents in 1854. Although but six years of age, she well remembers that their first house was a board shanty 16x16 poles for studding and rafters, and wide native boards for floors. No dirt was ever swept outside this house, it went through the cracks in the floor. They came to Jasper County in 1867, locating in Mariposa Township, and over many years, Mr. Balmer owned over six hundred acres in that township. This has been sold, and the money invested in land in Kellogg Township, where he owns about five hundred acres. He also owns three hundred and twenty acres in Nebraska. Mr. and Mrs. Balmer are the parents of nine children, seven of whom are living, and only one a resident outside of Jasper County. Page 39

~ Balmer, John L. ~Photo

John L. Balmer, an enterprising and prosperous young farmer living on Section 34. Kellogg Township was born in Jasper County August 1, 1874. He is son of James and Maria Jane (Dow) Balmer, natives of Ireland and Ohio, respectively, and were numbered among the early settlers of Jasper County. Our subject was married January 16, 1895, to Emma Sash. She was the daughter of William and Margaret (Goddard) Sash. They are the parents of four children, Della A., Effie Jane, William J. and Elmer E. Mr. Balmer is a strong supporter of the Republican Party. The family are members of the Christian Church. Page 47

~ Barnes, Hodgen ~Photo

Hodgen Barnes, a progressive farmer residing on Section 26, Fairview Township, was born in England November 5, 1823, and became a resident of Jasper County March 28, 1869. He is the son of William and Mary Barnes, natives of England. There were two children in his father's family, our subject being the youngest. His father died when he was quite small, after which his mother married Joseph Prescott. They came to America in the fall of 1837, and located at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, where our subject resided for about thirty-two years, after which he came to Jasper County. In Pennsylvania the most of his time was spent at mining and the handling of coal. On his arrival here he purchased 160 acres of land, where he now resides. He now owns 257 ½ acres, 160 acres of which is under-laid with coal, one vein four feet thick at from forty to sixty feet depth, and a three and one-half foot vein at from sixty to seventy-five feet. On account of poor health, his mines have not been operated for about four years. February 24, 1848, he was united in marriage to Mary Ann Thomas, daughter of William and Anne (Meredith) Thomas, natives of England and Wales, respectively. By this union eleven children have been born, six of whom are living: Mary E., Mrs. Jas. A. Tool; Lizzie Bell; Jennie E.; Sarah W., Mrs. Morgan Woody; Frank F., and Jonathan H. Mr. Barnes has always taken an active interest in the affairs of his county, and has held numerous township offices. He was Township Trustee for fifteen years. Politically, he is a Republican. He cast his first vote for Henry Clay in the fall of 1844. His son, Frank S., manages the farm successfully. Socially, the family are members of the M. E. Church. Page 39

~ Barr, John ~

John Barr, of Section 20, Hickory Grove Township, was born in the north of Ireland March 16, 1842. His parents were James and Jane (Wyley) Barr. There were six children in their family, at whom John was the oldest. He came to America in July 1881, and when he landed in Davenport he possessed $2.50 in money. He worked out by the day for about one year, and came to Jasper County in January 1882, where he worked by the month as a farm hand, later rented farms for several years, purchasing his present farm in 1895. It is a 160-acre tract, which he is bringing to a high state of cultivation. Nancy May Marshall, daughter of John and Bettie Marshall, and our subject were united in marriage May 22, 1869. Eight children have been born to them: Maggie. James, Alexander. Jane, John, Elizabeth, Agnes and Samuel. His son, Alexander, served 20 months in the Philippine War. Socially, our subject is a member of the United Brethren Church. Page 35

~ Bateman, Mark W. ~

Mark W. Bateman, Township Clerk and Insurance Agent at Monroe, was born in Ebensburg, Cambria County, Pennsylvania, in 1839, came to Van Buren County, Iowa, in 1856, with his parents, and to Jasper County in 1865. In 1861 he attempted to enlist in the United States service, but was rejected because he was considered not physically able. In the spring of 1864 he went to Boise City, Idaho, where he remained until the fall of 1865, and rode a pony from that place to Jasper County, 2,100 miles. On coming to Jasper County, our subject became the first grain buyer in the village of Monroe, which business he conducted for nine years. He was deputy sheriff from 1874 to 1880, constable from 1874 to 1889, and Township Clerk from 1889 to the present time. He was united in marriage to Jane Sulgrove January 1, 1863. Six children were born to them, all of whom are alive and doing well: Addie A., Laura A., Maggie J., Stella M., James E., and Fred E. Page 12

~ Behner, Adolph ~ Photo

Adolph M. Behner, a prosperous young jeweler in the city of Newton, was born in Rochester, N. Y., July 13, 1874. His father was Martin Behner, and his mother, before her marriage, Maggie Stirneman, who were natives of Germany and Switzerland, respectively. His father was an expert accountant, and traveling salesman. In 1878, the family removed to Winona, Minn., where our subject received his education. In 1892, he graduated at Woodcocks Horological College. We next find him in Rock Rapids, Lynn County, Iowa, where he remained until the fall of 1893. He then went to Doon in the same County, and in a short time returned to Winona. He became a resident of Newton, Jasper County, Iowa, in 1894, and began work for L. B. Westbrook. In July 1897, he engaged in business for himself, and now has a carefully selected stock of jewelry, and commands a good trade in his line. Miss Maude Ewing became his wife January 11, 1899. They are the parents of one child, Grace Maude. Socially Mr. Behner is a member of Newton lodge No. 59, A. F. &A. M. Page 39

~ Bergman, Christ W. ~

Christ W. Bergman, an enterprising and successful farmer, residing on Section 8, Mariposa Township, is the son of William and Luesa (Flamchap) Bergman, who were natives of Germany, who were early pioneers in Jasper County. The Bergman family are well known, for they have been identified with this section of the state for nearly half a century. Our subject was born in Jasper County November 29, 1864, and remained on the old Bergman homestead, which might be termed West Bergman, until 21 years of age. He then located on his present farm, which he now chooses to call East Bergman Place, and for a number of years batched it. March 23, 1892, he was united in marriage to Emma Wehrman. She was born in Jasper County, and was the daughter of Henry and Matilda (Pauck) Wehrman. They were natives of Germany, but were married in New York. There were 11 children in her father's family, she and a twin brother, Chris, were the eighth born. Mr. and Mrs. Bergman are the parents of three daughters: Elsie L., Gertrude M., and Junetta M. Their original farm consisted of 160 acres, to which they have added until they have 320 acres, well improved. Page 23

~ Berkenbosch, Jacob W. ~Photo

Jacob W. Berkenbosch was born in Marion County, Iowa, June 14, 1869. He is the son of Martin and Paulina (Van Derscore) Berkenbosch, natives of Holland. Our subject started for himself without means, and for some years worked out as a farm hand. April 12, 1893, he was united in marriage to Cinda A. Wood, daughter or Wesley and Nancy (Gant) Wood, natives of Indiana. Three children have been born to them: Lela May, born January 17, 1894; Gerald Ward, born September 11, 1899, and Vera Pauleen, born February 16, 1900. They purchased their present farm in Fairview Township in the fall of 1899, and have been residents of Jasper County since March 1888. Page 27

~ Berry, Albert D. ~

Albert D. Berry, a buyer and shipper of all kinds of livestock, is a resident of Section 11, Clear Creek Township, and was born in Jasper County July 10, 1861. His parents, Solomon and Ellen (Connor) Berry, were natives of Illinois and Ohio, respectively, and were pioneers in Jasper County. His father is still living, and his mother deceased. Delilah Deeter was born in Jasper County August 22, 1858, and became the wife of our subject September 7, 1887. By this union six children have been born, four of whom are living: Ethel M., David H., Gladys F., and Joseph C. Mr. Berry has never known the care of a mother. His mother died when he was but a small child, and since that time he has been almost obliged to shift for himself. Since his marriage he has been more than ordinarily successful, and now owns 337 acres of Jasper County soil, situated in Independence Township. He has been engaged extensively in the buying and shipping of stock for the past ten years. Page 47

~ Berry, Charles W. ~

Charles W. Berry, residing on Section 14, Clear Creek Township, is the son of Solomon and Ellen (Conner) Berry, and was born in Poweshiek Township October 6, 1862. His father was a native of New York, and his mother a native of Virginia. Lizzie Ferguson was born in Jasper County April 7, 1864, and became the wife of our subject April 9, 1885. They are the parents of four children: John S., Ada D., Artie and Myrtie. When Mr. Berry started for himself, it was in the most humble manner; working out by the month for some years, however, he has secured a comfortable home, and now owns 140 acres of land, which he has brought to a good state of cultivation. Page 35

~ Besser, Dr. Edward ~Photo

Dr. Edward F. Besser, now a practicing physician in the city of Newton, was born in Harper, Iowa, January 3, 1875. His parents were Nicholas and Anna Mary (Baker) Besser, natives of Germany. His father came to America in 1844, and became a resident of Iowa the same year, his mother coming to this country in 1848. There were five children in his father's family, our subject being the third. His father was a farmer, and our subject was reared amid the scenes of farm life. He received his education in the public schools of Keokuk County, and St. Francis College, remaining at the latter institution three years. He took a three years' course in the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Des Moines, and was in Mercy School Hospital one year, and was in a Chicago school of physicians and surgeons one and one-half years, graduating at the latter institution in 1900. In July of that year he came to Newton, and was with Dr. Gorrell until the fall of 1901, when he opened an office on his own account, and is enjoying a lucrative practice. Socially, he is a member of White Pine Camp No. 182, M. W. A. Page 43

~ Bigelow, Wilbur F. ~Photo

Wilbur F. Bigelow is the son of Lowell M. and Eliza A. (Warren) Bigelow, and was born in Newton Township March 26, 1878. His father was a native of Ohio and his mother of Iowa. Wilbur received his education in the district schools of Newton Township and Newton Normal College, at which he graduated. He remained on the farm until 17 years of age, and then became a resident of Newton, engaging in the hardware trade as clerk, later in a grocery, and purchased a half interest in his present store February 25, 1901. The firm of Fitzgarrald & Bigelow carry a general line of groceries, and are commanding a good trade. Socially, he is a member of the K. of P.'s, M. W. of A., and Yeomen. Page 31

~ Bishop. Hilton J. ~

Hilton J. Bishop is the son of B. S. and Lydia Maria (Cory) Bishop, and was born in Vermont December 2, 1848. His father was a wagon maker by trade, which business he followed in the Green Mountain State until 1856, when he came to Lee County, Iowa. In 1864 the family pushed farther west, locating on Section 24, Palo Alto Township, Jasper County. His trip was made from Lee County here overland. The father died here in 1888. H. J. Bishop acquired his first land in 1871, which was the old home farm, purchasing part of his present farm in 1892. Maggie M. Davis became his wife September 11, 1873. She was the daughter of Pennington Davis, an early settler in Jasper County, and one of its most highly respected citizens, a portrait of whom appears elsewhere in this work. Mr. and Mrs. Bishop are the parents of six children: Clarence A., Charles E., Walter R., Mabel E., H. Carl, Wilfred P. Page 16

~ Black, Orren W. ~

Orren W. Black is the son of John and Eliza (Pierce) Black. John Black was a ship carpenter by trade, and came to Iowa in 1854 and located at Grinnell, where he worked at the carpenter's trade. He died October 1, 1877, at the age of 79. His wife died August 26, 1851. Our subject was born in Waldo County, Maine, March 21, 1836, came to Iowa in 1855 and located in Poweshiek County, and in 1866 in Jasper County. Eugenia Brown became his wife January 1, 1861. Her parents were Emery and Laura Brown, who were pioneers in Jasper County, coming here from Illinois in 1854. Mr. and Mrs. Black are the parents of nine children, all of whom are living, and are residents of Poweshiek and Jasper counties. Mr. Black is independent in politics, while his wife is a member of the Methodist Church. Part III, page 4

~ Blanford, G. W. ~Photo

G. W. Blanford is a native of Kentucky, where he was born January 27,1836. In 1856 he came to Iowa and located in Mahaska County. In 1859 he came to Jasper County on horseback, his cash capital amounting at that time to about $25.00. He soon purchased land on Sections 7 and 8, Mound Prairie Township, and located on his present farm in 1866. He has always followed agricultural pursuits, and has been identified with the growth and development of Jasper County from its infancy. Their early marketing was done at Oskaloosa and Marengo. For a time he done teaming from Keokuk to Oskaloosa, and helped to haul the arms from Ottumwa to Oskaloosa for a regiment that was raised there during the war. Mary Ellen Slaughter became his wife in 1863. She was born in Burlington, Des Moines County, Iowa, and is the daughter of Joseph and Belinda Slaughter, who came to Jasper County in 1846. Our subject and wife are the parents of eight children: Eldora, William T., Consuelo, Frank S., Joseph H., Kate B., George Edgar, and Charles Austin. Page 15

~ Bleakney, Benjamin F. ~ Photo

Benjamin F. Bleakney, an extensive landowner and farmer, residing in Kellogg Township, has been a resident or Jasper County since 1867. Mr. Bleakney was born in Pennsylvania April 15, 1842, where he resided until 1858, when the family removed to Henry County, Illinois. Our, subject's first purchase of real estate was an 80-acre tract in that county, purchased in 1862. In March 1864, he enlisted in Company B, 18th Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and served as a private until September of that year, when he received his discharge to accept a promotion. He then became second lieutenant in Company B, 17th U. S. C. I. Later was promoted to first lieutenant, and was under Colonel W. R. Shafter, and served until the spring of 1866. After coming out of service, he soon came west, and located on Section 36, in what is now Mariposa Township, Jasper County, taking at that time 160 acres. He now owns 660 acres of Jasper County soil, and is the possessor of a comfortable home. Cynthia Ellis was born in Scott County, Iowa, April 28, 1857, and became the wife of our subject February 28, 1879. Her parents were Henry and Harriet (Patterson) Ellis, natives of Pennsylvania. By this union three children have been born, Carrie, Edna, Clemmie L., and Frank D. Page 40

~ Bobzin, Charles ~Photo

Charles Bobzin, a conservative and successful businessman who is now engaged in the hardware trade in Kellogg, has been a resident of Jasper County since 1869, coming here with his parents at that date. Mr. Bobzin was born in Germany, February 17, 1849, where he grew to his majority; receiving is education in the schools of his native country and with the family came to America in 1865. On his arrival in Jasper County, the first two years he engaged at carpenter work, having learned the cabinetmaker's trade in Germany. In the fall of 1870 he took charge of the furniture store, which was a company concern and operated it successfully until September 1876, when his brother Henry took charge. Our subject then engaged in the lumber business, which line he has continued in ever since in March 1898, he purchased the hardware and furniture store of A. B. Craven, and now handles this stock in connection with agricultural implements in one of the best sales rooms in the town. The store was built in 1898, and is 44x100 feet, two stories high. To this there is an addition 16x44, one story, and another 18x42, one story. December 1877 marked a new era in this man's life for it was at that date he married Ernestina Achtemeier. Two children were born to them, Carl and Bertha. Mrs. Bobzin died in 1862. His second marriage was in 1886 to Minnie Lemke. They are the parents of one child, Fred. Our subject came to the United States with limited means, but has proven himself a good financier and a careful business man, and is today one of the leading merchants in the city of Kellogg. Socially he is a member of Meridian Lodge No. 280 A. F. & A. M. Page 40

~ Bobzin, Henry Sr. ~

Henry Bobzin, Sr., member of the firm of Bobzin Bros., was born in Mechlenburg, Germany, Oct. 21, 1854, and has been a resident of Jasper County since 1869. He is the son of Joachim and Sophia (Timm) Bobzin. His father was a merchant tailor by trade, which he followed for many years in his native country. In 1865, the family came to the United States and located in Will County, Illinois, where they remained until coming to Kellogg, Jasper County, and in each case we find him following his chosen profession. There were three sons in this family, Charles, Fred and Henry. The second year after their arrival here, Charles entered into the furniture business, while Fred and Henry were engaged on the railroad as section hands, at which they remained until 1876. Our subject then took charge of the furniture store, which had virtually been a company concern, and operated it until 1880, when Fred entered the store, after which they added dry goods and groceries. In 1884 they sold out the furniture department to H. M. Cox, and now run a general store in a large room, which they remodeled in 1901. The salesroom is 44x54, one storeroom attached 18x24 and one 10x24. All of this space is well utilized with a stock of the most seasonable goods. February 5, 1880, Mr. Bobzin returned to Will County, Ill., and married Sophia Buchmeier, born in Will County, Ill. They have two daughters Emma L., now a primary teacher in the Kellogg schools and Ella D., attending school. In reviewing this man's life, it is but another example of what may be accomplished under our form of government. Born in a foreign land, coming to the country when yet a boy, starting without means, working for day wages as a section hand, and finally succeeding and becoming a leading merchant of his town, Mr. Bobzin has reason to be satisfied with his success and career. Socially he is a member of the German Lutheran Church. Page 40

~ Bohne, H. A. ~

H. A. Bohne, farmer and stock raiser and dealer, of Section 35, Malaka Township, was born in Schenectady County, New York, March 12, 1847. In 1855 he became a resident of Wisconsin, and in 1881 migrated from the Badger State and located in Jasper County, locating on his present farm. Caroline Schnathorst became his wife October 18, 1871. She was born in Germany June 24, 1849. Ten children have been born to them: John Henry August: John Henry Fred, Rosina Carolina Sopha, John Herman, Charles Fred William, Fred, Carolina Charlotte Anna, Mary Emelia, Herman, Charles John. Our subject received his education in the schools of New York and Wisconsin. Has always taken an active interest in the affairs of his country, and has filled various township offices, including that of constable, justice of the peace, township clerk, trustee, and was a school director for five years. When he started for himself, his only capital was his energy and a determination to succeed, which he has done to a remarkable degree. Politically, he is a Democrat, and socially is a member of the German Evangelical Church. Page 16

~ Bonsall, E. P. ~Photo

E. P. Bonsall, proprietor of the Grand View Stock Farm, Section 25, Hickory Grove Township, is the son of E. R. and Mary (Kitching) Bonsall, and was born in Mahaska County, this state, May 4, 1853, and dates his residence in Jasper County from the spring of 1876. He was united in marriage February 4, 1880, to Ora E. Cox, daughter of N. W. and Mahala J. (Carson) Cox, and are the parents of three children. Page 23

~ Boot, A. G. ~Photo

A. G. Boot, residing on Section 31, Lynn Grove Township, was born in Marion County, Iowa, January 24, 1865, and received his education in the common schools of that County, and in the spring of 1889, married Jennie Vanderwilt, daughter of Dirk and Cornelia J. Vanderwilt, the date of their marriage being March 5th, and soon located on a farm in Jasper County. John and Helena M. (Scarf) Boot, parents of our subject, were early settlers in Marion County. Our subject and wife are the parents of five children: Helena M., Cornelia J., Christena R., Joanna W., and Delia S. Page 12

~ Boot, Jacob C. ~Photo

Jacob C. Boot, Section 31, Fairview Township, began the improvement of a well-located farm, in the spring of 1901. He is the son of John and Ellen (Scarff) Boot, early residents of Marion County, where our subject was born January 24, 1875. He has always followed farming as his choice of an occupation. February 28, 1901, Lena De Yong became his wife. Her parents were Floris and Anna Marie (Thomasen) De Yong. P. 24

~ Boot, Marinus ~Photo

Marinus M. Boot, residing on Section 35, Fairview Township, became a resident of Jasper County In the spring of 1901. March 13, of that year, Nancy Van Baren became his wife, and the young couple located on their present farm. His parents, John and Helena (Scharff) Boot, are early settlers and wealthy agriculturalists in Marion County, and reside in one of the best-appointed homes in this section of the state. Her parents, John and Sarah Jane (Mitchel) Van Baren, are residents of Palo Alto Township, Jasper County, where they operate a farm of several hundred acres. Page 23

~ Boot, William B. ~Photo

William B. Boot is considered one of the successful agriculturalists of Elk Creek Township. His parents are well-to-do residents and among the first families of Marion County, where our subject was born February 19, 1869. He came to Jasper County in March 1896, and engaged in farming, at which occupation he is a thorough success. March 19, 1896, Alice Rietveld became his wife. She was born August 29, 1872. They are the parents of two sons: John Willbert, born February 26, 1897, and Dirk, born February 3, 1900. Page 11

~ Booth, J. W. ~

J. W. Booth, proprietor of the North View Stock Farm, of Section 7, Des Moines Township, has been a resident of Jasper County since the spring of 1879. Mr. Booth was born in England February 15, 1857, and came to America with his parents in 1867, settling in New York State. There were 14 children in his father's family; our subject was the fourth born. He started in life empty-handed, and for a time worked out by the month at farm labor. We next find him on a rented farm in Jasper County. He continued renting for several years, and purchased his present farm in 1897. Martha Brewin was the daughter of John and Alice Brewin, natives of England, and be- came the wife of our subject December 25, 1882. They are the parents of six children: William H., Alice M., John R., James F., George Arthur, Clarence C. Socially, Mr. Booth is a member of the Modern Woodman Lodge at Prairie City. Page 24

~ Boyd, William S. ~

William S. Boyd, secretary of the Farmers' Mutual Insurance Co., now residing in the city of Newton, has been a resident of Jasper County since the spring of 1857, and therefore can well be termed a pioneer. His parents were J. R. and Elizabeth Boyd, natives of Tennessee, where our subject was born June 8, 1840. In 1852 the family located in Sangamon County, Illinois, and engaged in agricultural pursuits, in which our subject was engaged until 1887. At that date he became deputy treasurer or Jasper County under A. K. Brown, and held the position for three years. He was then elected secretary of the Farmers' Mutual Insurance Co., of which he has been a member from 1875, his first policy in this company being No. 8. Under his management it has succeeded well, and now has risks amounting to over two and one-half million dollars. All claims are promptly paid at the First National Bank of Newton. July 12, 1863, Cynthia Newhouse and our subject were united in marriage. She was a native of Michigan. By this union three children have been born: Charles E., a leading physician in the city of Newton; Alva L., deceased, and Walter H., a printer in Newton. Page 40

~ Braley, Wilber C. ~Photo

Wilber C. Braley, an up-to-date and progressive businessman engaged in the hardware trade in Kellogg, was born in that town March 6, 1863. His parents are Joseph and Elmira (Whitcomb) Braley, natives of Vermont and Indiana respectively. His father is still a resident of Kellogg Township, is classed among the pioneers, and dates his settlement in Jasper County from 1858. He now lives retired in Kellogg, where he moved in 1880. Our subject was united in marriage to Clara E. Wiegand Jan. 8, 1884. She was born in Wisconsin Sept. 22, 1862. They are the parents of two children, Myra, deceased, and Gladys. The latter was born June 17, 1890. Mr. Braley has been more than ordinarily successful in all his business ventures. He started for himself when 18 years of age, and for three years was engaged at farming on land he rented of his father. We next find him engaged at merchandising in company with his father, which they followed for about two years. Since he started in the hardware trade and in fact since his first start for himself, there has not been a year that he has not had a nice clean balance on the credit side of the ledger. Page 40

~ Brand, Henry ~

Henry Brand, residing on Section 24, Independence Township, was born in Germany in September 1841. In 1860 he came to the United States without means, and was in debt for part of the money that paid his passage across the Atlantic, which took them 47 days. In December 1868, he married Wilhelmina Guese. She was born in Germany June 3, 1847. Our subject had come to Jasper County in 1867 with about $500.00. He now owns 160 acres of land, well improved, besides a house and several lots in the village of Baxter. They are the parents of two children, Simon and Benjamin. Part III, page 4

~ Brock, George A. ~Photo

George A. Brock, residing on Section 27, Mound Prairie Township, was born in London, Laurel County, Kentucky, June 6, 1868. He is the son of John and Margaret (Carrier) Brock, natives of Kentucky and Tennessee, respectively. The family came to Jasper County in August 1869. September 1, 1878, he with his parents removed to Kansas, locating in Ness County, where his father still resides, our subject returning to Jasper County in 1885. George A. was the fifth child of a family of nine children. Early in life he was thrown upon his own resources and worked out by the month for 16 years. His first work was herding cattle, receiving $2.00 per month for his labor, and was with his brother William for about 12 years. March 11, 1896, our subject was united in marriage to Valura M. Marshall, a native of Jasper County. Two children have been born to them: Bonnie V. and George Vernon. Mr. Brock's first piece of real estate was his present farm, a 120-acre tract, purchased August 30, 1900. Page 28

~ Broderson, Peter ~Photo

Peter Broderson, Section 34, Palo Alto Township, is counted among Jasper County's most prosperous citizens, and dates his settlement in the county from December 1868. He was born in Schleswig, Holstein, Germany, formerly a part of Denmark. The date of his birth was February 20, 1842. He is the son of Christian and Potelle Broderson, and was the fourth child of a family of six sons, four of whom came to America. Three are residents of Palo Alto Township. When our subject came to America in 1865, he had when he landed in Davenport, about $100.00. This was soon gone. He was then thrown entirely upon his own resources. He soon secured work in a lumberyard, receiving $1.50 per day. His next work was upon a farm, which he followed for about three years. In December 1868, he came to Jasper County, and bought 40 acres of land on Section 34, Palo Alto Township. This was the first piece of land he ever owned, and he still holds 14 acres of his original tract. Caroline Wulf was born at Ratzewig, Germany, March 11, 1849, and became the wife of our subject December 17, 1869. They went to keeping house in a board shanty 12x16, in which they lived until 1878. Five of his children were born in this house. The next five years, our subject relates, were the hardest years of his life, but he succeeded, and today owns 404 acres of land, well improved. Mr. and Mrs. Broderson are the parents of eleven children, nine of whom are living, four residing at the old homestead. Their names are as follows: Christian C., Henry J., Augusta L., now Mrs. H. D. Terpstra, Ella B., now Mrs. H. J. Woody, C. Marie, now Mrs. G. A. Tool, Helena A., deceased, Louis A., Arthur F., deceased, Elmer W., Carrie E., and Mabel. Part III, Page 3

~ Brothers, Charles D. ~

Charles D. Brothers, a progressive farmer residing on Section 2, Mound Prairie Township, has been identified with the interests of Jasper County since 1856. His parents were William and Mary (Walker) Brothers, natives of England and Scotland, respectively. His father came to America in 1837 and located in New Orleans. Later he removed to Pennsylvania. We next find him in Missouri, where our subject was born September 17, 1852. In 1856 the family came to Jasper County and located on a farm near Newton. His father afterwards removed to the state of Washington, where he still resides. Our subject was married in February 1882, to Bena Beiley. One child was born to them, Mima. His wife departed this life in 1894. In 1896 he was again united in marriage to Rebecca Halliwill. Two children have been born to them, Ethel and Mabel. Mr. Brothers first piece of land was purchased in 1886, which he afterwards sold and purchased his present farm in 1898. It consists of 215 acres, well improved, and on which are located suitable buildings, the care of which denotes a careful farmer. He has always taken an active interest in the growth and development of the state and county; is not an office seeker, but has consented and served six years as Township trustee and five years as school director. Page 27

~ Brown, George W. ~Photo

George W. Brown was born in Jefferson County, Iowa, February 9, 1841; came to Jasper County in 1868, and is now a resident of Section 16, Fairview Township. His parents were Jacob C. and Nancy (Miller) Brown, natives of Carolina and Tennessee, respectively. There were ten children in his father's family, five sons and five daughters, Geo. W. being the sixth born. His father died January 12, 1884, in his eighty-sixth year, and his mother in January 1887, in her seventy-sixth year. His parents came to Marion County when he was three years of age. Here he grew to his majority. In August 1862, Mr. Brown enlisted in Company E, 23rd Iowa Volunteer Infantry, and received his discharge in February 1864, on account of sickness. Returning from the service, he again engaged in agricultural pursuits, and by careful management and industry now owns 200 acres of Jasper County soil. Hannah J. Boles was the daughter of John and Mary Jane Boles, who were natives of Pennsylvania. She became the wife of our subject May 23, 1868. Eleven children have been born to them, six of whom are living: Nellie May, Mrs. Dr. Oliver, Seth D., Ollie E., Robert F., Cora M., and Edgar A. Page 31

~ Brown, James ~Photo

James Brown, engaged in machine repair work at No. 320-324 West McDonald Street, came to Jasper County with his parents in 1868. He was born in Ayrshire, Scotland, June 8, 1861, and came to American with his parents in 1865. His father was a coal miner in his native country, and on his arrival in Jasper County, engaged in the same line of work and was a coal operator until 1890, our subject engaging in the same line of work until he hall reached his majority. He received his education in the district schools of Palo Alto Township, and when he started for himself, was with Skow Bros. for about four years. At the age of 28, in company with David McAllister, they engaged in the tile business. In 1893, in company with his cousin, G. L. Brown, they started the machine shop now operated by our subject, he having purchased his cousin's interest in the concern Jan. 15, 1901. He is a moulder of his own fortune, and by industry and careful management he has secured a good property, and is now enjoying a good trade in his line of work. Mr. Brown has been twice married. His first wife, Margaret McAllister, bore him one child, William, who is now assisting his father in the machine shop. There marriage was in November 1884. Her death occurred in 1886. His present wife, Maggie McGill Johnston, is a native of Scotland. By this union three children have been born, John J., James L., and Boyd. Their residence is at No. 401 Race Street. Socially our subject is a member of Delta Lodge No. 53 Knights of Pythias. Page 51

~ Bufkin, Lindley H. ~Photo

Lindley H. Bufkin, Editor of the Lynnville Star, was born in Henry County, Indiana, December 8, 1842; came to Jasper County in 1862, and engaged in farming, which occupation he followed during the summer season and taught school during the winter seasons. He is a well-educated gentleman, and from 1871 to 1897 was a United Brethren preacher, in the active work of the ministry, later becoming a member of the Congregational Church, and was pastor of a congregation at Runnells, Polk County, for three years. In 1900 he started the Lynnville Star. The first paper made its appearance November 22. Page 11

~ Bunker, Francis W. ~Photo

Francis W. Bunker, residing on Section 2, Buena Vista Township, is the son of Andrew M. and Sarah (Howe) Bunker, both of whom are deceased. Our subject was born in Muscatine County, Iowa, in 1861. His parents were natives of Pennsylvania. The father was born in 1818, and the mother in 1822. They were married in the year of 1844, came west in the year 1858, and located in Muscatine County. They were the parents of thirteen children, twelve of whom are living, one son, George H., having died February 22, 1881. F. W. Bunker and Mary E. Illian became husband and wife in Muscatine County in 1884, and in 1887 came to Jasper County, and located on the farm on which he now resides. He has brought his farm to a high state of cultivation. He has one of the finest peach orchards in the County, a hardy variety that his father brought from Pennsylvania to this state in 1858. Mr. and Mrs. Bunker are the parents of seven children, four sons and three daughters. Page 16

~ Burns, Charles B. ~ Photo

Charles B. Burns, residing on Section 30, Mound Prairie Township, was born near Prairie City, January 31, 1876. He is the son of Elias and Sarah A. Burns, natives of Vermont and New York, respectively. His parents came to Jasper County in 1869 and located about a mile south of Prairie City. In 1882 they located on Section 30, Mound Prairie, where they still reside. There are three children in his father's family: Bailey, at home, Myra, who was born December 18, 1870, and died April 20, 1889, and Charles B., our subject, who received his education in the district schools of Jasper County. He has usually followed agricultural pursuits, but for a time was engaged in Prairie City and Newton in the photograph business, which, not proving lucrative enough to suit his requirements, he returned to the old homestead. Elias Burns was born in Vermont December 17, 1832. Married Sarah A. Burns in 1866. She was born in the State of New York, October 9, 1849. Mr. Burns enlisted in Company E, 2d Vermont Volunteer Infantry, under Captain Bigsby; took part at Fredericksburg, July 1, 1863; transferred to Veteran Reserve, doing guard duty, escorting recruits, hospital duty, etc. Mustered out July 31, 1865. Page 12

~ Burroughs, W. H. ~

W. H. Burroughs, residing on Section 20, Rock Creek Township, was born in Ripley County, Indiana, February 14, 1846, and became a resident of Jasper County in 1871. His parents were James C. and Mary (West) Burroughs, natives of Kentucky and Ohio, respectively. Our subject was married in Ripley County, Indiana, April 19, 1869, to Phoebe J. Lipperd. She was a native of the same County. Her parents, John W. and Nancy J. (Wright) Lipperd, were also natives of the Hoosier State. Our subject and wife are the parents of five children: Edith W., James W., Ada B., Ellsworth E., and Eleanor E. Page 19

~ Byers, Dr. Henry V. ~Photo

Dr. Henry V. Byers, practicing in the city of Newton, is the son of James M. and Hannah E. Byers, natives of Pennsylvania and New York, respectively. His father was a contractor and builder, and followed his chosen profession for many years. There were three sons and three daughters in the family, our subject being the second child, and was born February 13, 1848, in Mercer County, Pennsylvania. The family left the Keystone State in 1851, and became residents of Burlington, Iowa, and in 1853 located in Oskaloosa. Our subject coming to Jasper County in 1876, he received his early education in the public schools of Oskaloosa and Oskaloosa College. He took a course in the Eclectic Medical Institute of Cincinnati, Ohio, graduating from that institution in 1875. He is what may well be termed a self-made man. As soon as he was permitted to practice, he did so, and by this means secured money to finish his education. He has practically made his own way since twelve years of age, and deserves credit for the position he holds among the members of his profession. For the past fifteen years he has made a specialty of the diseases of women and children, and has been very successful in this particular line of his profession. Mary E. Kendall and our subject were united in marriage in 1876. Three sons have been born to them, Gibson H., Roy F. and Harolde C. Socially, the doctor is a member of Newton Lodge No. 59, A. F. & A. M., Gebel Chapter No. 12, Oriental Commandery No. 22, Central Lodge No. 65, I. O. O. F., and Canton No. 21, and the Encampment. In 1893 he was president of the Eclectic State Medical Association of Iowa, and was a member of the advisory council of the World's Congress of Eclectic Physicians and Surgeons at the Columbian Exposition. Page 43