~ Walker, Henry ~Photo

Henry Walker, a successful agriculturalist, residing on Section 27, Hickory Grove Township, became a resident of Jasper County in the fall of 1868. He was born in Indiana February 2, 1847. His parents were Jerome and Sarah (Grimsley) Walker, natives of New York and Kentucky, respectively. His father died May 4, 1881, and his mother October 13, 1893. Our subject is yet a single man. His brother, Jackson, and his two sisters, Caroline and Elizabeth, make their home with him. His first start in life was secured by working out by the month as a farm hand, later renting land, and in 1871 be purchased his first piece of real estate, a tract of 40 acres. He now owns 300 acres in Hickory Grove and Rock Creek Townships, and is considered a conservative and prosperous agriculturalist. Politically, he supports the principles of the Republican Party. Page 32

~ Walker, John M. ~Photo

John M. Walker, an agriculturalist residing on Section 28, Hickory Grove Township, was born in Indiana May 2, 1844, and dates his settlement in Jasper County from October 27, 1865. He is the son of Jerome and Sarah (Grimsley) Walker, natives of New York and Kentucky, respectively. They became the parents of five sons and six daughters, our subject being the oldest son. He has always followed agricultural pursuits, and received his first start in life by working out as a day laborer. His first piece of real estate was an 80-acre tract, purchased in the winter of 1865, for which he paid $2.65 per acre. He now owns 256 acres in Hickory Grove Township, which is under a high state of cultivation. August 20, 1862, he enlisted in Company E, 83rd Indiana Volunteers. He later received his discharge from this company, after which he re-enlisted, and served until June 1, 1865, participating, during his service, in the siege of Vicksburg, Arkansas Post, and several other minor engagements. Christena Beall was the daughter of Joseph and Ellen (Sutton) Beall, natives of Maryland, and became the wife of our subject in March 1873. By this union six children have been born: Fred O., Robert H., Anna Belle, Oliver P., Grace E., Lennice E. Politically, our subject affiliates with the Republican Party. Page 39

~ Wasson, John F. ~Photo

John F. Wasson, who resides on the old Wasson homestead, Section 35, Palo Alto Township, was born in Indiana January 19, 1847, and came to Jasper County with his parents in the fall of 1852, His father, James Wasson, after their arrival here, rented land in Buena Vista Township, and later purchased in Palo Alto, where he resided until his death, January 19, 1885. He was a man of energy, and a good financier, and at the time of his death had acquired a comfortable home. His son, J. F. the only child, has always remained at home, assisting on the old homestead, looking after the interests of the place with his father, and after his father's death, took full control, and is now carefully looking after the interests and comfort of his aged mother, who is now 77 years of age. John Wasson and Mary A. Crawford became man and wife October 14, 1875. She was a native of Ohio. Five children have been born to them, four of whom are living. Page 15

~ Watson, Ebenezer ~

Ebenezer Watson, residing on a finely improved farm on Section 22, Newton Township, with his mother, was born in Waverly, Illinois, November 3, 1864, where he lived until he came to Iowa in 1892. His father, Ebenezer Bliss Watson, was born in East Windsor, Connecticut, in 1819, and died at Waverly, Illinois, in 1877. His mother, Aradella L. Sweet, was born near Loami, Illinois, in 1832, and also came from New England stock. Our subject has a fine herd of Duroc Jersey swine, and has built up a fine and profitable business in that line. He also has a good herd of the bilking strains of Short Horns, and the products of his dairy find ready sale in Newton. He gets 25 cents per pound for butter the year around, and is probably the only one in the county who can boast of that price. He comes from the best Connecticut Yankee blood, tracing back to Robert Watson, who came from London with six brothers and settled in Massachusetts and Connecticut about the year 1840. He is also connected as a b1ood relative with the Reeds, Blins, Trumbulls and McLeans, all first families of Connecticut. The McLeans are of Scotch descent. He is a near relative of Prof. Sereno Watson, late professor of botany of Harvard University. His uncle, Rev. Julius A. Reed, is a member of the famous Iowa band. He is a distant relative of Charles Richard Dana, Sally Pratt McLean, and the present governor of Connecticut and is justly proud of his ancestors. Page 28

~ Watt, William ~Photo

William Watt, whose well appointed and comfortable farm residence graces Section 16, Sherman Township, was born in Canada August 5, 1845, and came to the United States with his parents, C. and Margaret (Hamilton) Watt, in 1855. His people were natives of Scotland. His father was drowned in what is now known as Watt Lake, in 1858. Our subject acquired his first land in about 1870. In the fall of 1872 he was united in marriage to Amanda A. Pierce. She was a native of Wisconsin. Her parents were Alfred and Julia A. (Kelsey) Pierce, natives of New York. Eight children have been born to them: Minnie L., deceased; Mary Estella; George H., deceased; Charles W., Grace M., Arthur C., Neva B., and Florence G. Page 15

~ Webber, William ~

William Webber, of Section 5, Richland Township, was born in Marion County, Iowa, November 18, 1855, and came to Jasper County in 1860. His parents were Horace and Elizabeth Webber, who came from Germany about 1845. His father died October 30, 1858, and the mother June 20, 1856. Our subject, after the death of his parents, was taken by Wash. Wilson, where he resided until he was 17 years of age, when he started for himself, working out as a farm hand. His first land purchase was in 1887. Lydia A. Williams, of Reasnor, became his wife January 27, 1881. She was born in Darke County, Ohio, January 30, 1858. Her parents were George and Elizabeth (Keel) Williams, who became residents of Jasper County in 1869. Our subject and wife are the parents of six children: Lawrence L., G. Raymond, William W., Nellie M., Carl V., and Alta G. Page 11

~ Weber, Urs Edward ~Photo

Urs Edward Weber, residing on Section 9, Mariposa Township, was born in Switzerland December 4, 1855, where he grew to manhood and received a liberal education, being educated for the ministry graduating in Zurich University, and commands six different languages. His people were wealthy, and during the time our subject was being educated, he traveled over most of the old countries, which took him about three years. Since coming to the United States in 1871 he has visited many of the larger cities and has been in 22 different states and territories. He has been in the mercantile trade, and has been offered several prominent positions, but wishing to be free and independent, he chooses farm life. Mr. Weber came to Jasper County in 1875, and January 6, 1876, united in marriage to Augusta Demann. She was a native of Germany, and came to America with her parents in 1864. They are the parents of eleven children, ten of whom are living. Of our subject's parents, it should be said that his father was a judge of the supreme courts of Switzerland. His mother was a doctor and was the second lady allowed to practice in that country, practicing from 1853 to 1888. Dr. Genovefa Weber was a graduate from the University of Zurich and Bern, Switzerland, with the honor of LL. D. Page 19

~ Weeks, J. W. ~Photo

J. W. Weeks is a contractor in Newton, and has lived in the town for 15 years, working as carpenter the first five years and contracting during the last 10. Mr. Weeks was born February 8, 1862, in Knox County, Ill., removed with his parents to Madison County in 1866, attended the schools of the county and worked on the farm until 1880, then attending the high school in Winterset, graduating in 1882. At the same time he worked at the carpenter trade during his spare time, and continued at his trade until he removed to Sully in 1884, and to Newton in 1886. He was married to Miss Clara Smith in Sully, June 1886. Mr. Weeks has a family of five children, all living at home, Lottie, Myrtle, Irma, Lyle and Gladys. Mr. Weeks' father, C. P. Weeks, came from Kentucky to Illinois when he was 17 years old, removing from there to Madison County, Iowa. He farmed at both places, and is now living at Kasson, Madison County. Mrs. Mary (Reynolds) Weeks was born in Abington, Ill., and died in 1867. Mrs. Weeks' parents, Mr. A. R. and Margaret (Walker) Weeks, both came from Ohio and settled at Knoxville, Ia., and removed from there to Jasper County in 1875. Between these dates they had tried Kansas, but they thought Iowa was good enough for them, and returned as above stated. Mr. Weeks is a member of the I. O. O. F., and attends the Christian Church. Page 51

~ Wehrman, Herman A. ~

Herman A. Wehrman, a successful agriculturalist, residing on Section 5, Mariposa Township, came to Jasper County with his parents, Henry and Matilda Wehrman, in 1866. They were natives of Germany. Our subject was born in Wisconsin November 20, 1865. He remained with his parents until 28 years of age, but received wages from the time he was 21. He purchased his present farm in 1893. March 7, 1894, he was united in marriage to Minnie Altemeier, daughter of Adolph and Minnie Altemeier, early residents of Jasper County. They are the parents of two children, Alise W., and Elnora M. Their home is a comfortable one and has every evidence of thrift and good management. Page 23

~ Welle, Henry ~Photo

Henry Welle, a progressive merchant in the village of Sully, was born in Pella, Marion County, Iowa, January 24, 1867, where he grew to manhood, receiving his education in the district schools of Lake Prairie Township in his native County: His parents were Cornelius and Sarah (Nollen) Welle, natives of Holland. His father was among the original Holland Colony that settled in Marion County in 1847. His mother came to America in 1854. There were eight children in his father's family, four of whom are living, our subject being the oldest. He remained on the old homestead until 1894. In 189u he started a general store in Sully, in company with B. H. Van Spanckeren, Jr. This firm continued together for four years, when our subject purchased his partner's interest. The firm is now known as Henry Welle & Co., his father being associated with him. Their salesroom is a large, double store, which they have well filled with the most salable goods. Besides carrying on general merchandising, they are also interested in the Sully Implement Co., our subject being its manager. This is also one of the largest and best-filled rooms in the line in Jasper County. Dora Van Spanckeren became the wife of our subject September 2, 1896. They are the parents of one child, Cornelius. Page 35

~ West, A. G. ~

A. G. West, proprietor of a livery barn in the village of Kellogg, has been a resident of Jasper County since 1869. He was born in Saratoga County, New York, in 1845. While he was yet a child, his parents, Ichobed P. and Mary (Hitchcock) West, removed to Illinois. They were both natives of the Empire State. In November, 1861, young West, though but sixteen years of age, enlisted in Company I, 46th Illinois Infantry, and served in this company until after the battle of Shiloh, where he was wounded April 7, 1862. He was in the Cincinnati hospital until August 1862, when he was sent to Chicago and discharged. In December of that year he re-enlisted in Company H, 16th Illinois Cavalry, and was in thirty-eight general engagements, including Nashville, Columbia, Palaska, Dalton, Resecka and Knoxville, and received an honorable discharge August 25, 1865, mustered out at Nashville and discharged at Chicago. In the fall of 1865 he was united in marriage to Emily Harder, a native of New York, and engaged in farming. His trip to Jasper County in 1869 was principally overland. His possessions at that time, was a team and wagon. The family located in Rock Creek Township, where they remained one year on a farm. Their house was a structure 12x18, the roof of which was in such condition that when it rained there were only two places a person could get and keep dry, one of those under the table and the other on the bed. Fortunately, the floor was no obstruction to the water. In 1870 he removed to Kellogg, where he engaged in the harness business, later engaged in the dray business, which he followed for about seven years, and in 1898 started his present business. Mr. and Mrs. West are the parents of two children: William H., traveling salesman for a drug house, who resides at Mankato, Minnesota, and Ernest C., at home. Page 39

~ Weston, Homer L. ~Photo

Homer L. Weston, ex-sheriff of Jasper County, now living retired in Colfax, was born in Hancock County. Illinois, March 27, 1835. His parents, Joe] and Elizabeth (Clark) Weston, were natives of Massachusetts and Pennsylvania, respectively. His father was a miller, which he followed during his lifetime, but was usually a landowner, and carried on farming to some extent. He was twice married. His first wife, Elizabeth Clark, died in Louis County, Missouri, July 18, 1859. His second wife accompanied him to Jasper County in 1868. Homer L. Weston started for himself when twenty years of age. April 2, 1855, he started for California, and made the trip across the plains with ox teams. He was accompanied by three men and their families. During his stay in the gold region he was engaged at teaming and in operating a sawmill. May 15, 1856, he was united in marriage to Samantha M. Slaback, a native of Tippecanoe County, Indiana, and that fall they started east, coming by way of Nicaragua, and well remembers the rough sea voyage. They located in Louis County, Missouri, where our subject was raised, his parents having moved there when he was but ten years of age. He engaged at farming and remained in that state until the last of May 1868, when they came to Jasper County and located in Washington Township. Before coming here, however, he had purchased 200 acres of land in what is now Sherman Township, but on his arrival here the Skunk River was over its banks, and impossible to cross. He therefore located in Washington Township on a farm, which is now within the city limits of Colfax, and on which he has since laid out an addition. He followed agricultural pursuits until 1884, when be was elected sheriff and served four years. He has filled numerous other positions of trust, was mayor of Colfax for three terms and has been justice of the peace. Mr. and Mrs. Weston are the parents of six sons: Joel H., residing in Colfax, Numa T., now a practicing physician in Colfax, Selden W. is a clerk in a hardware store, William C. is a carpenter by trade, and a finished mechanic and now resides in Des Moines, Oliver P., a teacher in the public schools of Colfax, Don Carl is at home. Politically, up to 1896, Mr. Weston had always affiliated with the Republican Party, but since that date he has been a free silver man. Socially, he is a member of Riverside Lodge, No. 289, A. F. & A. M. of Colfax, and Oriental Commandery No. 22 of Newton. In 1861 he was one to help with the assistance of Col. Bussey and his forces from Iowa. to drive Martin E. Green and his rebel forces from Northeast Missouri, and afterwards enlisted in Company A, 69th Missouri Mounted Infantry, and in 1864 was promoted to captain of Company B, same regiment, and served as such until the close of the war. Was also a Charter member of Imeran Post, Colfax, Iowa. Page 47

~ Weston, Dr. Numa T. ~Photo

Dr. Numa T. Weston, a physician and surgeon of Colfax, is a son of Homer L. and Samantha J. Weston, and was born September 25, 1864. He was reared among the scenes of farm life, and remained with his parents until twenty-one years of age. He attended the public schools of Washington Township and Colfax, and on arriving at his majority, entered the drug store of Dr. J. R. Ryan, and was in his employ about one year. We next find him in Dakota, and in 1866 was in the recorder's office of Huron, as an abstractor, and compiled a set of abstracts of title, which he afterward sold to the recorder. We next find him with the Duluth, Huron & Denver Railroad, making abstracts for them as they acquired their right of way, and for a time thereafter was engaged on construction work with the engineers of this road. In 1886 he returned to Jasper County and assisted his father in the sheriff's office as special deputy. In 1891 he organized a bank at Pleasantville, this state, and was its cashier for thirteen months. In 1892 with Thos. E. Jordan, they purchased a jewelry stock in Colfax, and retained his interest in the jewelry trade until 1896. In 1893 he attended the Chicago Ophthalmic College, and in 1895, he entered the medical department of Drake University of Des Moines, and graduated in April 1898, and has been a practicing physician in the city of Colfax since that date. In October and November 1900, he was chief surgeon of the Red Cross hospital, acting as assistant surgeon U. S. Army. Socially, the doctor is a member of Riverside Lodge No. 389, A. F. & A. M., of Colfax; Oriental Commandery No. 22 of Newton; Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, and Za-Ga Zig Temple of Des Moines. Page 36

~ Wettstein, Henry August ~Photo

Henry August Wettstein, a merchant tailor in Newton, was born in Switzerland July 14, 1854, where he grew to manhood, and learned the tailor's trade. He came to the United States in 1884, and located in Newton the same year. For a time he was employed as a tailor in Newton and Des Moines. In 1894 he started in business for himself, and has become a successful businessman, and now enjoys a good and substantial trade. Louisa Ruchti was born in Switzerland October 3, 1854, and became the wife of our subject December 17, 1877. They are the parents of two children, Adolph A. and Helen E. Politically, Mr. Wettstein is a supporter of the Republican Party. Socially, he and his estimable wife are members of the Lutheran Church. Page 43

~ Whistler, Benjamin ~Photo

Benjamin Whistler, proprietor of the Spring Water Stock Farm, on Section 4, Fairview Township, was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, September 22, 1820, and became a resident of Jasper County in the fall of 1866. His parents were Jacob and Barbara (Whitmer) Whisler, natives of Pennsylvania. The family moved to Indiana when Benjamin was five years of age. There were five children in his father's family, of whom Benjamin was the fourth. He began his career in life without means, but prior to his coming to Jasper County, he had owned in Hamilton County, Indiana, a farm of 108 acres, which he sold for $50.00 per acre. On coming here he purchased a 160-acre tract, which is well watered by two springs, which furnish an abundance of water for his stock. September 5, 1861, he married Mary Stokes. She was the daughter of John and Elizabeth (Smeltz) Stokes, natives of Pennsylvania. Seven children have been born to them, five of whom are living: John J., born July 27, 1862. Wm. H., born September 18, 1863; Ludovic J., born June 12, 1868; Barbara E., born August 8, 1872, now Mrs. Copper, residing in Monroe; Benjamin A., born June 15, 1875, and now attending the State Agricultural College at Ames, Iowa. His two sons, John J. and Ludovic J., have charge of the farm, which they are operating successfully. Politically, Mr. Whisler is a Democrat. Page 32

~ Whittaker, D. W. ~Photo

D. W. Whittaker, residing on Section 26, Buena Vista Township, was born in New York in 1857. In 1865 he came to Iowa, locating in Scott County. In 1886 Lugenia Nebergall became his wife. She was a native of Scott County. They became residents of Jasper County in 1889, and now live in a comfortable home on the above named section. Page 27.

~ Wiggins, Chancy D. ~Photo

Chancy D. Wiggins, a farmer and stockbreeder, residing on the old C. R. Graham estate, on Section 34, Washington Township has been a resident of Jasper County since 1893. Mr. Wiggins was born in Warren County, Illinois, March 23, 1842. He is the son of Benjamin F. and Jannette (Matteson) Wiggins, natives of New York State. His parents were early pioneers in Illinois, coming to that state shortly after their marriage in 1830. They reared a family of five children, two sons and three daughters, our subject being the second child. Three of the family are still living. Chancy remained at home until the breaking out of the Civil War, when he enlisted July 31, 1862, in Company C, 83rd Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and served until July 7, 1865. Was mustered out at Nashville, Tennessee, and discharged in Chicago. During his service he participated in the second battle of Fort Donaldson, Franklin, Tennessee, and many other minor engagements. September 3, 1867, he married Eliza Poulson, a native of Illinois. Her parents were natives of Sweden, but died when she was a small child. Mr. and Mrs. Wiggins are the parents of five children: Minnie J., Bertha A., Carl A., Roy E., and Fannie H., all living. Besides carrying on a general farming business, Mr. Wiggins turns his attention quite extensively to stock growing and feeding, having cattle in the feed yard nearly the year around. He has been reasonably successful in all his business enterprises, operating 320 acres of rented land, where he now resides, and owns 160 acres in Mound Prairie Township, which is carried on by his son, Carl A. Wiggins. Page 11

~ Wilhelm, Louis ~

Louis Wilhelm, whose pleasant farm residence graces Section 35, Mound Prairie Township, has been a resident of Jasper County since 1870. Mr. Wilhelm is a native of Germany, born September 19, 1850. When 20 years of age he started for America, with barely enough money to pay his fare across the pond. We next find him employed as a farm hand, at which capacity he remained for about six years, receiving for his pay about $18 per month. His first piece of real estate was a tract of land in Taylor County, a deed for which he received for labor performed, the only means he had of securing pay from his employer. This he soon sold. He purchased his present farm in 1877, which he has brought to a high state of cultivation. March 19 of that year he married Bertha Russ, a native of Germany, who came to America in 1870. Four children have been horn to them, all of whom are living: Mary, Mrs. Bekenholz; George L., Lucy M., and Louis F. Mr. Wilhelm has hardly known a parent's care. His mother died when he was but two years of age, and the father when Louis was seven. Since that age he has earned his own living. Page 44

~ Williams, John ~Photo

John Williams, now residing on Section 25, Fairview Township, is among the very first pioneers that located in this section of the state. He was born in Indiana February 13, 1820, and is the son of William and Elizabeth (Chandler) Williams, who were natives of North Carolina. John Williams became a settler in Marion County in the spring of 1843. His earthly possessions at that time was a team of horses and about $100.00 in money. He entered 130 acres of land, and bought 110 acres, which he farmed for many years. This he sold in 1882 and purchased 300 acres one mile north of Monroe, which is well improved and free from encumbrance. Coming to the state at that early date, our subject has truly endured all the hardships of a pioneer. His market place for many years after his first settlement was at Keokuk, 150 miles away. Lucinda Murrens became his wife in the spring of 1852. She was the daughter of Wiley and Prudy (Datson) Mullens.* They are the parents of two sons, Henry C., born February 24, 1854, and James M., born February 8, 1859. *Mullens is printed. Page 24

~ Williams, Wilford ~

Wilford Williams, a well-to-do and progressive farmer of Section 1, Lynn Grove Township, is the possessor of one of the most comfortable homes in the county. He dates his settlement in Jasper County from 1854, locating at that time on Section 25, Richland Township. Mr. Williams was born in Indiana August 18, 1845. In 1866 he married Anna Graham, a native of England, who came to the United States in 1846. Five children have been born to them: Charles A., Robert Edgar, Willie J., Harry G., and Earl S. Mr. Williams is an extensive land owner and stock grower, possessing some 584 acres of land, situated in Richland and Lynn Grove Townships. He has devoted his whole life to agricultural pursuits and has been liberally rewarded for his close attention to his business interests. Page 39

~ Witmer, Lieut. Jacob R. ~Photo

Lieut. Jacob R. Witmer, of Greencastle, Poweshiek Township, was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, December 27, 1833, and grew to manhood on the farm in the Keystone State. September 27, 1861, he enlisted in Company E, 79th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, and later was first lieutenant of Company B, 214th Pennsylvania, serving about two years. In 1866 he came to Jasper County, and July 4, 1869, was united in marriage to Lizzie Kendig. She was also a native of the Keystone State, born February 15, 1850. They have been blessed with a family of seven children: Emma, now Mrs. Peter Pink; Minnie, Mrs. George Sapp; Mary, Mrs. H. W. Sumpter; Cora, Mrs. B. Sumpter; Lincoln, Jacob and Crissie. Mr. Witmer, politically, is a Republican. He has always taken an active interest in the affairs of his Township, and has held nearly all the local Township offices. The Witmers were originally from Switzerland, and came to America in 1716 and settled near Philadelphia, purchasing land from William Penn, part of which is still in the Witmer family. Mrs. Witmer, wife of our subject, passed from the scenes of this earth February 6, 1900; buried at Greencastle Cemetery

~ Wood, Aaron ~Photo

Aaron Wood, residing on a well located farm of 80 acres of Section 34, Fairview Township, is an early pioneer in Jasper County, coming here with his parents, Eli and Elizabeth (Carr) Wood, in the spring of 1856, and has watched the growth and development of Jasper County with interest. Our subject was born in Indiana June 8, 1846, and is an agriculturalist from choice. December 12, 1875, Catherine S. Rigoulot became his wife. She was the daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Marth) Rigoulot. Her parents were natives of France. She was born in New York City in July 1841, and when about one year old the family removed to Ohio, and in May 1855, came to Iowa. Page 23

~ Wood, George D. ~Photo

George D. Wood, cashier of the Bank of Colfax, was born in Montgomery County, New York, May 9, 1858, He came to Iowa in 1879, and located at Brooklyn, and became a resident of Colfax in September 1881. The Bank of Colfax was organized by A. J. Wood in June 1881, and when our subject arrived here he connected himself with this institution, Three years later he purchased an interest in the concern, and in 1892 Alex Wood and Geo. D. Wood became sole proprietors. The active management of the concern has been in the hands of Geo. D. Wood as cashier since September 1881. The bank has a capital of $75,000.00, and now has on deposit over $400,000.00. This large deposit is evidence in itself of the confidence the people have in this institution. A wealthy businessman of Colfax, in speaking of this bank, told the dictator of this sketch that he had transacted over $60,000.00 worth of business with Geo. D. Wood, and had never found a variation of one cent in their accounts. Mr. Wood possesses some 800 acres of choice Iowa land, and without a doubt possesses the finest dwelling house in Jasper County. He is an extensive cattle feeder, and an all round businessman. He is a thirty-two-degree Mason, and Odd Fellow, and member of the Methodist Church. Ella Florence Conway was born in Johnstown, Ohio, June 20, 1858, and was married April 10, 1880, at Brooklyn, Iowa, to Geo. D. Wood. To this union were born three children, Daisy C., Clifton D., and Hazel D. Mrs. Wood passed from the scenes of this earth at Denver, Colorado, August 25, 1901. She was a devoted mother, a kind and loving friend. She manifested that kindness of heart to all with whom she came in contact that one would not discern the least trace of consciousness of her social position. She united with the M. E. Church early in life, and was a devoted member until her death. Page 36

~ Wood, W. C. ~Photo

W. C. Wood, an industrious and enterprising farmer, residing on Section 34, Elk Creek Township, was born in Elkhart County, Indiana, March 15, 1834. He is the son of Eli and Elizabeth (Carr) Wood. Our subject is one of the early pioneers of Jasper County, having been a resident of the county since 1856. He was united in marriage April 27, 1869, to Eliza Vaughn, daughter of James and Mahala (Lundy) Vaughn. Our subject and wife have seven children living: Charles William, Martha Alice, Florra B., Benjamin F., Lester M., Cora C., and Terry M. Coming to the county at so early a date, Mr. Wood has been closely identified with Jasper County's prosperity and welfare, and is considered today one of its most substantial citizens. Page 19

~ Woodrow, F. C. ~Photo

F. C. Woodrow, residing on Section 17, Newton Township, was born in Jasper County September 2, 1871. Ella C. Guthrie became his wife July 31, 1895. She was born in Jasper County September 23, 1873. Both Mr. and Mrs. Woodrow have received liberal school educations, he having attended the common schools of the county and the high school in Newton. Mrs. Woodrow attended the district schools of Newton Township and the high school in Newton, and Capital City Commercial College at Des Moines. They are the parents of three children: Arthur Edward, born August 5, 1897; Esther Irene, born March 26, 1899, and Myron Diller, born February 21, 1901. Page 8

~ Woodrow, John ~Photo

John R. Woodrow, proprietor of the Evergreen Fruit Farm, located on Section 33, Newton Township, has been a resident of Jasper County since 1865. Mr. Woodrow was born in Lee County, Iowa, May 27, 1852. His mother died when he was about eight years of age. His father married again and John went to Henry County to live with an aunt. He attended school at Mt. Pleasant, and later at Newton, and received a liberal school education. He was practically thrown on his own resources when 18 years of age, and for a number of years worked out as a farm hand during the summer months and taught school during the winter. February 27, 1878, Mr. Woodrow was united in marriage to Miss Phoebe Hanson. Six children have been born to them: Albert E., deceased, George M., Maurice H., Ella Y., Mabel, and Robert. When a boy our subject worked for his brother, J. M., in the nursery business, and there received his first knowledge of fruit growing. His first piece of real estate was part of his present farm, purchased by his father in about 1874. He now owns 100 acres, which he has brought to a high state of cultivation. Ten acres of this is in orchard, five of which is young. Starting in the nursery business when a boy, Mr. Woodrow has practically been a fruit grower all his life, and as such is noted as a marked success. He has about one acre in strawberries, and has sold as high as four tons in one season from this small tract. His spacious and well kept farm residence and outbuildings denote a careful, industrious, energetic and tasty farmer. Page 11

~ Woodrow, Joseph M. ~Photo

Joseph M. Woodrow, president of the Jasper County Bank, has been a resident of Jasper County since 1865. Mr. Woodrow was born in Tennessee County, New York, September 8, 1840. He is the son of Benjamin and Francis (Sprague) Woodrow, natives of England and Connecticut, respectively. His father was a tailor by trade, and came to America in 1807. Our subject started for himself when 21 years of age, and worked on a farm by the month in Illinois. In 1863 we find him clerking in a store in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, where he remained until 1865, and came to Jasper County. Here he engaged in the boot and shoe business. In the spring of 1867, he added groceries, closing out the boots and shoes. In the spring of 1869 he sold out this business and started a nursery, which he operated successfully until 1883, and sold it out. In October 1880, he became cashier of the Jasper County Bank, and in January 1889, became its president. Parmelia A. Fluke became his wife in 1865. She is a native of Ohio. They are the parents of seven children: Frank M.; Eva A., Mrs. A. C. Keinath; Harry E., deceased; Fred C.; Grace M., Mrs. A. E. Hindorff; O. Blaine, and Benjamin W. Page 31

~ Woody, Ezra ~Photo

Ezra Woody was born in Lawrence County, Indiana, March 20, 1826, and came to Iowa, locating near Monroe, Jasper County, in the spring of 1849. December 26, 1852, he married Ann Eliza Seay. She was born in Washington County, Virginia, May 24, 1828. She had come to Jefferson County, Iowa, in 1845, and to Jasper County in 1849. When they were married they moved into their new home, where they spent the remainder of their lives. They became the parents of nine children, three of whom died while small. The remaining six are still living: Mary E. James W., Rebecca J., Oscar N., Viola, and Geo. M. Mr. Woody, during his lifetime, took an active interest in the affairs of the county and filled numerous township offices, including justice of the peace, constable and school treasurer. He died here March 10, 1892, and his wife, November 29, 1894. Page 31

~ Woody, George M. ~Photo

George M. Woody, an importer and breeder of Short Horn cattle and Clydesdale and Shire horses, is a resident of Section 3, Clear Creek Township. Mr. Woody was born in Jasper County June 19, 1867. His parents were Ezra and Ann Eliza (Seay) Woody, who were early pioneers of this section of the state. They located near Monroe in 1849. George M. has been reared and educated in his native county, and has taken advantage of the opportunity afforded him by the development of this country by the early pioneers. In 1890 he engaged in the fancy stock business, and has made a marked success in that line, and has on his farm some of the best specimens of stock to be found in this part of the state, and is today one of the leading stockmen of the state. Clara Saunders became his wife January 1, 1890. She was also born in Jasper County, the date of her birth being January 24, 1869. They are the parents of six children: Leslie, Pearl, Minnie, Elsie, Dewey, and Martin. Politically, Mr. Woody votes the Democratic ticket. Page 15

~ Woody, J. W. ~Photo of Residence

J. W. Woody, a prosperous farmer of Palo Alto Township, was born in Fairview Township, Jasper County, March 24, 1855. He is the son of Ezra and Annie Eliza (Seay) Woody. Ezra Woody was born in Lawrence County, Indiana, in 1826, and in 1849 came west, and during the summer of that year was in Dallas County, Iowa, and in the fall located in Jasper County and engaged at farming in Fairview Town- ship, and became one of its prosperous and enterprising citizens. When the Greenback Party was at its best, Mr. Woody was one of its stanch supporters; He died here March 10, 1892. J. W. Woody, the subject of this sketch, was united in marriage, February 26, 1888, to Mary McBride, daughter of E. A. and Louisa (Fudge) McBride. One child was born to them, Adah, born April 21, 1890. Mr. Woody has always followed farming. At one time he owned 160 acres in Fairview Township, and was engaged in raising Short Horn cattle, but on account of poor health of himself and wife, he sold in 1900 and purchased a smaller farm in Palo Alto Township. Politically, Mr. Woody supports the Democratic Party. Page 11

~ Woody, John M. ~

John M. Woody, whose well-appointed and comfortable farm residence is located on Section 30, Fairview Township, has been a resident of Jasper County since December 25, 1890. He was born in Marion County January 2, 1866, and is the son of William H. and Jemima E. (Day) Woody. January 1, 1890, he was united in marriage to Anna L. Byers, daughter of T. L. and Susan (Whittaker) Byers. Her brother has been County surveyor of the County for the past 21 years. Our subject and wife are the parents of two children: Olive B. and Amor L. Page 16

~ Woody, Oscar ~

Oscar Woody is the son of Ezra and Anne Eliza (Seay) Woody, born in Jasper County February 5, 1862, his people having come to the County in 1850. Our subject has always followed farming, and has become thoroughly versed in that line, and is a successful breeder of Duroc Jersey swine. His farm residence graces Section 27, Fairview Township. December 8, 1889, Julia E. Wheeler became his wile. She was the daughter of Jeremiah and Mary Ann (Hixson) Wheeler. Their children are John R., Grace A., and Anna May. Page 27

~ Wormley, D. M. ~

D. M. Wormley, a progressive farmer, residing on Section 15, Newton Township, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, June 4, 1848, and became a resident of Jasper County In 1869. November 24, 1875, our subject was united in marriage to Mary E. Armstrong. She was born Jasper County January 11, 1859. Their children are Sarah E., Myrtle L. and Mabel M., all of whom have had a liberal school education. Mr. Wormley started in life at the bottom of the ladder, but by industry and careful management has climbed well to the top. He takes an active interest in the affairs of the township and county, and is a highly respected citizen. Politically, our subject believes in the principles of the Republican Party. Socially, he is a member of the M. E. Church. Page 20

~ Wright, George J. ~Photo

George J. Wright, a progressive merchant of Kellogg, was born in Salem County, Ohio, Oct. 7, 1853, and became a resident of Jasper County in 1873. His parents were David and Hannah (Ford) Wright, natives of Salem, New Jersey. While single they each became residents of Salem, Ohio, where they were married. They reared a family of six children and in 1855, located in Cedar County, Iowa, where our subject grew to his majority, and where his father possesses a valuable tract of land, but now lives retired in Wilton, his wife having died in 1896. Mr. Wright started for himself when 19 years of age, without means, and located in Jasper County, and for the next two years worked by the month as a farm hand. We next find him in Kellogg, as a painter, which he followed for two years, after which he clerked in the store of C. T. Shoemaker. We next find him managing a store for G. T. Saum, which position he held for about four years. In 1881 in company with F. A. Braley, he purchased the general stock of his former employer, C. T. Shoemaker. This partnership lasted for about ten years when Mr. Wright purchased his partner's interest, and has been sole proprietor since that time. In September 1876 he was united in marriage to Elsie J. Birchard, a native of Kansas. They are the parents of two sons and one daughter, Russell C., Jetson G., and Mabel E. This man's life is another example of what may be accomplished by a young man, starting empty handed, but with high ambition and a determination to succeed. How well he has performed his part one can well judge by stepping into his busy double store which is well filled with a good stock and also with people that appreciate the fact, and watch them making their purchases, either of Mr. Wright or of his sons, who have become an efficient help to their father. Socially Mr. Wright is a member of Meridian Lodge No. 280, A. F. & A. M. and also of the Knights of Pythias. Page 40