ROBERT A. WALLACE

This well-known contractor and builder in one of Cedar Rapid’s native sons and a worthy representative of one of her old and honored families, being a son of Leroy Wallace, who for many years was a prominent business man of the city.  The father was born in Vermont, February 24, 1831, a son of Austin and Mary Wallace, and the second in order of birth in a family of four children, the others being Mary, who died when about fifty-five years of age; William, who died in Tennessee; and Mrs. Minnie Storms, a widow of Fort Madison, Iowa.  The Wallace family is of Scotch origin and was founded in Vermont in early colonial days.  Our subject’s paternal great-grandfather was a soldier of the Revolutionary war, and took part in the battle of Bennington.  The grandfather, Austin Wallace, was an old time tradesman, who about 1835 removed to Pagetown, now Columbus, Ohio, and became identified with the building interests of that locality, working at the carpenter’s trade, when it was the custom of those following that pursuit to go into the woods, hew down the trees and prepare their own building material before erecting a house.  His death occurred at Columbus.

Leroy Wallace was reared under the paternal roof and after reaching the age of twelve years worked in the timber cutting wood.  He learned what he could of the carpenter’s trade with his father, and through his own unaided efforts bettered the knowledge thus acquired.  He was a self-educated man and a great reader even in early life, thus becoming a broad-minded, well-informed man.  On the 8^th of January, 1835, he was married at Columbus, Ohio, to Miss Mary Barnes, who is also of Scotch lineage and a native of the District of Columbia, where her family had large land holdings.  She is now the only survivor in a Cedar Rapids.  In 1855 Leroy Wallace brought his family to Cedar Rapids, the journey being made by stage from Davenport.  At that time this region was mostly wild and unimproved, and as a contractor and builder he became prominently identified with its development.  During his long residence here he erected many of the buildings of Cedar Rapids, and the excellence of his work was a convincing test of his own personal worth.  He met with success in business affairs, and his course was ever such as to commend him to the confidence and esteem of those with whom he was brought in contact.  By his ballot he supported the Republican party, though he never took any active part in politics aside from voting. extensive book bindery in Helena, Montana;  He was a great church worker and an official member of the First Baptist church, to the support of which he gave liberally.  Although a very conservative man he always kept up with the times in all things, and in his death the community lost a valued and useful citizen, his family a devoted husband and father, and his associates a stanch friend.  He departed this life on the 20^th of December, 1898.

Unto Leroy and Mary (Barnes) Wallace were born nine children, all of whom reached years of maturity with exception of one son.  In order of birth they were: Virginia, wife of Frank Listenwalter, of Cedar Rapids; Robert A., the subject of this sketch; Gertrude, who lives with her mother in Cedar Rapids; Leroy, who was drowned in 1873 at the age of fourteen years; Lincoln, who was drowned in 1892; Florence, wife of Colon B. Leibkicher, who has an extensive book bindery in Helena, Montana; William, of the Cedar Rapids Paving & Construction Company; and Bertha and Eurydice, both at home.  All received good common-school educations.

Robert A. Wallace was born in Cedar Rapids, November 13, 1856, and was educated in its schools.  He learned the carpenter’s trade with his father, and in 1883 became associated with him in business under the firm name of L. Wallace & Son.  They did general contracting in both stone and carpenter’s work, and were interested in and operated what was known as the Cedar Rapids Planing Mill.  They also engaged in railroad construction, their first contract being with the Illinois Central Railroad.  Our subject still carries on the business under the name of L. Wallace & Son, and is doing a large amount of work throughout the state, being recognized as one of the most reliable, as well as one of the best contractors and builders in this section.  He has put up a number of the larger blocks in the city, and is spoken of as the pioneer contractor.  November 15, 1893, Mr. Wallace led to the marriage altar Miss Kate Hughes; who was born in Galena, Illinois, in 1861, a daughter of John Hughes and wife.  Her father was a native of Wales, and on coming to this country, first located in Illinois, but later became a resident of Scotch Grove, Jones county, Iowa, where he died at the age of sixty-six years.  He was a very active man throughout life.  His wife died in 1898.  They were the parents of two children: Leroy Austin and John Hughes.

Although not a politician in the sense of office seeking, Mr. Wallace is a strong Republican, and is now acceptable serving his second term as alderman of the third ward.  He is a member of the Baptist church and also a Star of the West Lodge, No. 1, K. of P.  He has a wide circle of friends and acquaintances, and is held in high regard wherever known.

Source: The Biographical Record of Linn County Iowa, Illustrated, Chicago: The S. J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1901, pages 118-119.

Submitted by: Carrie J. Robertson of Marion

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LEMUEL J. WALN

Linn county has many well-to-do and successful farmers who have been the architects of their own fortunes, and by their well-directed efforts have acquired a comfortable competence.  Among these is the subject of this personal history, who now owns and operates a good farm on section 19, Franklin township,  He was born in that township, May 26, 1858, and is a son of William and Fannie (Burge) Waln, the former a native of Ohio, the latter of Greene county, Pennsylvania.  He is great-grandfather on the paternal side was a Mr. Barnard, who was drafted and served forty years in the Swiss army before coming to America, and in this country took part in the War of 1812.  He had two daughters, both of who married Walns.  The parents of our subject were married in this county and made their home on what was known as the William Waln farm until the father’s death, he being killed in a tornado in 1860.  The following four years she conducted the farm alone and in 1864 she married Silas Bailey, and they continued to make their home on the farm one year, when they sold their property and moved to Creston, Iowa, where they lived till 1879, when the property was sold, and she returned to Linn county and remained one year.  At the end of that period she rejoined her husband and moved to Nebraska, where they purchased a farm.  There she died December 13, 1892.

The subject of this sketch is the seventh in order of birth in a family of eight children, the others being as follows: Margaret A., born October 20, 1848, is the wife of James McLaughlin, of Franklin township, a sketch of whom appears in this work; Samuel J., born April 8, 1850, married Ida Patmore and lives west of Mt. Vernon; Martha Jane, born June 11, 1851, died in childhood; Eliza J., born December 5, 1852, is the wife of Emanuel Welty, of Winterset, Iowa; William Henry, born June 4, 1854, married Cynthia Hill and resides in Ravenden, Arkansas; John E., born February 24, 1857, married Hattie Russell and makes his home north of Mt. Vernon; and Milton B., born February 8, 1860, married Emma Maybower and lives in Mt. Vernon.

Being only two years old when his father died Lemuel J. Waln had few advantages during his boyhood and youth, and received very little schooling except that gained in the school of experience.  He profited by the lessons received, however, and has a good practical knowledge of men and affairs.  Prior to his marriage he worked as a farm hand by the month.  On the 20^th of February, 1884, at Marion, Iowa, he wedded Miss Lavina Burge, and they now have two children: Milton B., born May 29, 1891; and Clara Ethelda, born October 9, 1895.

The Burge family originated in Hull, Yorkshire, England, and came to America with Lord Baltimore in early colonial days, settling in Maryland.  Some of its members took part in both the Revolutionary war and the war of 1812.  The branch of the family to which Mrs. Waln belongs came to Muscatine, Iowa, in 1837, and two years later took up their residence in Linn county, where they entered quite a large amount of land.

Jeremiah Burge, the grandfather of Mrs. Waln, was born in Pennsylvania, in 1800, and was a son of William and Priscilla (Long) Burge, also natives of that state.  He married Hester Morford and to them were born seven children, namely: James M., the father of Mrs. Waln; Fannie, the mother of our subject; Jeremiah, deceased, who married Sarah Archer; William, who married the widow of his brother Jeremiah and lived in Franklin township; John, who married Harriet Harles, deceased, and resides near Cedar Rapids; Jane, who married Robert Maxwell, of Cedar county, Iowa, and both are now deceased; and Martha, who married first Washington Turner, who was killed in the Civil war, and is now the widow of Elijah Rundel and resides in Clyde, Nebraska.

James. M. Burge, Mrs. Waln’s father, was born in Greene county, Pennsylvania, and came to this county with the family in 1839.  Here he married Elizabeth McRoberts, a native of Kentucky, and a daughter of Michael and Mary (Smith) McRoberts, who was born in Virginia.  The McRoberts family came from Scotland to America in the early part of the Eighteenth century, and it has been well represented in the wars of this country.  William Smith, the maternal grandfather of Mrs. Burge, was in the secret service under General Arnold in the war of 1812, was present at the surrender of Detroit, and was massacred at the battle of River Raisin.  Mrs. Burge was fifth in order of birth in a family of eleven children, the others being William, who married and lives at Watsonville, California; Russell, who also married and resides in Greene county, Iowa; Mary Jane, who married John Prather, and after residing far a time in Linn county, Iowa, moved to Kansas and later to Oregon, where both died; George, who married Sarah Black, and makes his home in Mound City, Missouri; Frank and James, twins, both of whom entered the Union army during the Civil war, and died at Maitland, Missouri, from the effects of their army life; Lucinda, who married Henry Rogers.  She died in California and he died in Greene county, Iowa; Elsina, who died in infancy; Duncan, a physician, who was killed in the Civil war; and Margaret E., who died at the age of twenty years.  After his marriage James M. Burge located on a farm on section 21, Franklin township, where he spent the remainder of his life, his death occurring May 5, 1891.  His wife died April 21, 1886, and both were laid to rest in Mt. Vernon cemetery.  Unto this worthy couple were born twelve children, as follows: Frances married Jeremiah Thomas, a farmer of Franklin township, and died in 1878.  Jerry was killed in a tornado on the home farm in Franklin township in 1860.  Hester M. married Joseph Moore, who died in Linn county, in 1877, while her death occurred in Greene county, this state, in 1885.  Their sons are now engaged in the cattle business in Tillamook, Oregon.  John W. married Hannah Clark and is engaged in farming in Bertram, Iowa.  Ellen married Andrew Dill, a farmer of Franklin township, this county, who died December 22, 1877, and she died August 21, 1879.  Elizabeth is the wife of John Hoffman, a farmer of Franklin township.  James R. married Alvena Minich and is engaged in the ice business in Mt. Vernon.  Elmer married Kate Heller and resides on his grandfather’s old homestead in Franklin township.  Ethelda is keeping house for her brother George H.  Anson S. married Lula Davis and resides in Spokane, Washington.  George H., a farmer of Franklin township, is represented on another page of this volume.

For one year after his marriage Mr. Waln lived on the McCafferty farm where his wife was born, and spent the following year on the Jerry Burge farm.  His wife owned forty aces of land which they traded for the Chris Conrad place on section 19, Franklin township, and Mr. Waln has added to this until he now has one hundred and five acres of well improved and highly cultivated land, supplied with a good set of farm buildings.  He is a most progressive, up-to-date and successful farmer, and raises considerable stock, including horses, cattle and hogs.  In his political affiliations he is a Republican, and he has efficiently filled the office of school director.

Source: The Biographical Record of Linn County Iowa, Illustrated, Chicago: The S. J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1901, pages 204-7.

Submitted by: Carrie J. Robertson of Marion

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HON. CHARLES WEARE

Not all men gain state or national prominence or perhaps become widely known in their home locality, but there is no individual who does not leave his impress for good or evil upon those with whom he comes in contact, and well it is if at the close of his career his name is mentioned with respect and honor as the proof of a useful and upright life. For almost sixty years Charles Weare was a resident of Cedar Rapids and though he did not seek to figure in any prominent public relation his course was characterized by a devotion to duty that might well make his example one worthy of emulation.

He was born in Derby Line, Vermont, January 29, 1828, and was a son of John and Cynthia (Ashley) Weare, pioneer settlers of Linn county, of whom extended mention is made in the sketch of John Weare on another page of this volume. At an early age he accompanied his parents on their removal to Allegan, Michigan, where he made his home from 1835 until coming to Cedar Rapids in 1848, other members of the family having preceded him to this county. Here he engaged in the lumber business for four years and then turned his attention to railroad construction, taking large contracts from various roads for several years. He was a man of exceptional business ability and usually carried forward to successful completion whatever lie undertook.

On the organization of the republican party, Mr. Weare became one of its stanch supporters, though previously he had voted with the democratic party, as did his father before him. He became a recognized leader in the republican party and one to whom Linn county looked for guidance in political matters. He was gifted with those qualities which make for leadership and his clear presentation of his political position won a strong following for the cause which he advocated. He was a close personal friend of Senators Allison and Henderson and contemporaneous national and state officials, his interests centering largely in political matters, and his opinion constituted a guiding factor in the course of his party in this state. He served one term in the state legislature of Iowa and was county supervisor for several years. He also filled the office of marshal and was alderman and mayor of Cedar Rapids for some time. The last official position he held was that of chairman of the board of public works. in which capacity he rendered the city great service. It was here that his incorruptible honesty, integrity and business-like methods stood the city in good stead and the public contract work that was done while he was serving as chairman will stand the test of time. Dr. Carroll in his “Pioneer Life,” says of Mr. Weare: “Under the administration of General Grant Mr. Weare was appointed postmaster of Cedar Rapids, and held that office for eight years, from 1871-1879. During the administration of Benjamin Harrison he was appointed consul to Aix-la-Chapelle, Germany, a position which in many respects was very pleasant and desirable, but which he felt compelled to relinquish after ten months’ service, circumstances being such as to demand his return to America. But even in that short time he made many friends among the Germans, with whom his intercourse was very pleasant and lasting. In his business relations he was connected with the First National Bank, the Republican Printing Company, the Cedar Rapids Water Company and various other branches of enterprise, in all of which he held offices of trust.’’ Mr. Weare was also interested in farm lands in Linn county and in city property in Cedar Rapids and at one time was a member of the company operating the gas works at Marshalltown, Iowa, and Streator, Illinois.

On the 24th of March, 1857, Mr. Weare was united in marriage to Miss Catharine L. Carroll, who died October 13, 1902, and after his death her niece, Mrs. Carrie Carroll Cook, who had, made her home with him since childhood, took charge of his home and remained with him until he, too, was called to his final rest on the 19th of June, 1906, at the age of seventy-eight years. During his last illness he was lovingly remembered by his fellow pioneers and at the semi-centennial celebration his name was spoken often with expressions of tenderness and sympathy at the public exercises in George Greene Square. On historical day a resolution was passed expressing sympathy and good will for him and at tile republican county convention held at Marion during his illness a similar resolution was passed.

Mr. Weare was a man whose manner at times seemed gruff to those who knew him but imperfectly, and in the discharge of the duties of various public offices which he held his absolute integrity and uncompromising honesty led some to criticize him as being autocratic, but he lived long enough for all men to see that his honest, faithful service in public affairs was a blessing to the community and to realize the tenderness of heart that lay beneath his apparent austerity of demeanor. He was thoroughly understood and appreciated only by those who knew him best. The Germans have a proverb which says “you often find a golden room in a wooden house.” Mr. Weare gave the impression that he was ungracious and austere to some people, but he was as tender as a woman. Within the seemingly rough exterior there was a series of golden rooms, as all those who knew him speedily found out. He was loyal to every cause, principle and individual that had claim upon his loyalty, and was true to every trust that was reposed in him. If he was your friend and opportunity presented itself to help you it was not necessary to remind him of the opportunity. Very often he saw
the opportunity for such service before anyone else had seen it and, as always is the case with men of his type, he had the keenest appreciation of whatever was done for him. He was tenderness personified. He loved little children, he honored womanhood. He was constant in watchfulness after the welfare of those who were near and dear to him and he visited the sick, helped the needy and encouraged those who were cast down.

Mr. Weare was not the product of the schools but he had unusual common sense. Few men there are who are possessed of such native wit and wisdom and so trained by experience that they develop marvelously without any special training. Mr. Weare was one of these. He had a remarkable memory, almost infallible as to events and dates. He took special interest in young men and was instrumental in aiding many in their attempt to get a start in life. His interest in public affairs was proverbial and his judgment in matters political was well nigh perfect. It was always safe to go to him for counsel on any subject and he was seldom in error. Those things that he hated most in life were pretense and hypocrisy and his keen insight seldom failed him in discerning the motives of men. Few, indeed, were those who could deceive him. His services to his city, his state and his country were of the highest order and he never attempted anything he did not do honestly and well. Frank and fearless in the expression of his views and trustworthy in every relation of life men came to know and esteem him as a man of his word, in whom the sterling principles of integrity, of diligence and of helpfulness found ready expression.

Source: History of Linn County Iowa, From Its Earliest Settlement to the Present Time, Vol. II, Chicago, The Pioneer Publishing Company, 1911, p. 16-20.

Contributed by: Terry Carlson

CHARLES WEARE (by George R. Carroll)

Mr. Charles Weare was born in Derby Line, Orleans Co., Vermont January 29, 1828. He removed to Allegan, Michigan in 1835, and in 1848 he came to Cedar Rapids where he has resided ever since. For four years he was in the lumber business here, and then for several years after, he engaged in the construction of the different railroads then being built, upon whose lines he had taken contracts. He has always taken an active part in politics having been connected with the Republican Party since its organization. He served one term in the legislature of the state, has served his county as supervisor for several years and has held the offices of Marshal, Alderman and Mayor of the city.

Under the administration of Gen. Grant he was appointed to postmaster of this city, an office which he held for eight years. During the administration of Benjamin Harrison he was appointed Consul to Aix-la-Chapelle, Germany, a position which in many respects was very pleasant and desirable, but which he felt impelled to relinquish after about ten months of service, circumstances being such as to demand his return to America. In his business relations he has been connected with the First National Bank, the Republican Printing Co., the Cedar Rapids Water Co., and various other branches of enterprise, in all of which he has held offices of trust.

Mr. Weare was united in marriage to Miss Catharine L. Carroll, March 24, 1857. Mrs. Weare has for many years been a member of the First Presbyterian Church.  Coming here with her parents in 1839 she is one of the oldest residents of this place. 

Source: Carroll, Rev. George R., Pioneer Life In and Around Cedar Rapids, Iowa from 1839 to 1849, pages 173-4, Times Printing and Binding House, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, 1895.

Contributed by: Terry Carlson

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GEORGE WEARE

Mr. George Weare, the youngest son of Mr. John Weare, Senior, came to Cedar Rapids with his father in 1848. He was born in Allegan, Mich., December 3, 1834. His name will be recognized as among the students of Mr. Jones’ school, and he continued in the school a year or two longer, when under the management of Mr. Blakely. He then went to Dubuque and spent one year in Alexander College, after which he took a course in a commercial college. In December, 1855, he went to Sioux City, and established the banking house of Greene, Weare, Graves & Co. This firm being dissolved in the spring of 1858, Mr. Weare carried on the business alone until September 6, 1860, when he entered into partnership with Mr. J. P. Allison, the style of the new firm being, Weare & Allison.

From that date to the present, this banking house has continued in business, making it the oldest bank in Iowa under one continuous management. By fair and honorable dealing, and the application of strict business principles in the conduct of its affairs, it has become one of the most substantial and reliable banking houses in the state. 

Mr. Weare was married August 11, 1857, to Miss Mary Carpenter, of Cedar Rapids. The children of these parents are as follows: Henry G. Weare, now residing in South Dakota; Miss Susanna H., residing with her parents; Mrs. Kitty C., wife of John H. Nason; and Mrs. Mary E., wife of Mr. Howard G. Pierce, all of whom reside in Sioux City. 

I think it is safe to say that few men have done more towards developing Sioux City in all that goes to make up its proud record than Mr. George Weare.

Source: Carroll, Rev. George R., Pioneer Life In and Around Cedar Rapids, Iowa from 1839 to 1849, pages 170-172, Times Printing and Binding House, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, 1895.

Contributed by: Terry Carlson

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Henry Weare 

In 1844 Mr. Weare came to Cedar Rapids with the intention of making it his home. He boarded with his sister, Mrs. Shearer, while they were still living in the log house on the bank of the river below Fourth avenue. He came here directly from Allegan, Mich., although his native state was Vermont. 

He was a man of medium height and of rather slender build. He possessed a clear, keen intellect and was very fond of reading. He was an easy and pleasant conversationalist, and could talk intelligently on any subject, although he seemed especially at home in the realm of politics. He was always gentlemanly in his manners and kindly disposed towards those with whom he mingled. He was a man of good judgment, and had a clear insight into business affairs, and had he lived, I have no doubt, would have occupied a prominent place in the business circles of our city. 

He was a frequent visitor at our house and we were always glad to welcome him to a seat around our ample fireside. During the first year that he was here my father had a business transaction with him which was to us of great importance, and which left an impression on my mind that has never been effaced. The land had recently come into market, but as yet we had been unable to get money enough with which to pay for ours. 

In the meantime our neighbor, Mr. John Stambaugh, who then owned the Bever place, secretly entered that part of our claim on which the house stood. It was a most villainous act and our neighbors were up in arms about it, and they made it so uncomfortable for Mr. Stambaugh that he was glad to give it up upon my father’s paying the entrance money, which was fifty dollars for the forty acres upon which our improvements had been made. But the question was how could we raise even that small amount of money? It was no easy matter in those days to raise even one dollar, much less the amount necessary to pay for forty acres of land. 

We brought with us from Canada, a very valuable black mare which we considered one of the finest in the territory. She seemed to be the only available piece of property that we could spare at that time, and so she was offered for sale, although it seemed almost like putting upon the market a member of the family. Mr. Weare decided to buy her, but as money was so scarce, and horses so low in value, she brought only fifty dollars.  It was sufficient, however, to pay for the land, and so we readily gave her up that we might relieve ourselves from the pressing embarrassment that had been thrust upon us by a man who was devoid of any sense of true manhood. 

About a year later we sold to Mr. Weare the eighty acres lying on the west part of our claim for seventy-five dollars in gold. The sale of a yoke of steers which we had raised, for twenty-five dollars, made out the one hundred dollars with which we paid for the eighty acres adjoining the forty acres we had already purchased. The one hundred and twenty acres of land, paid for in this way, were all that we were able to secure out of the three hundred and twenty acres that composed our original claim. 

This detailed account of our business transactions, in those early years, is here recorded in order to give the reader a little glimpse of what the pioneers of this now rich commonwealth had to endure, in laying the foundations for its future prosperity. 

Mr. Weare died very suddenly at the house of Mr. Ramsey, near Polo, in Illinois, June 2d, 1846, at the age of 29 years.  He was on a business trip when the fatal disease overtook him that terminated his life. His death was so sudden that we were greatly shocked by the sad news, and our house became one of true mourning for one who had become to us more than a neighbor, or any ordinary friend.

Source: Carroll, Rev. George R., Pioneer Life In and Around Cedar Rapids, Iowa from 1839 to 1849, pages 146-148, Times Printing and Binding House, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, 1895.

Contributed by: Terry Carlson

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JOHN WEARE

An enumeration of those men of Linn county who have won honor and public recognition for themselves and at the same time have honored the state to which they belonged would be incomplete were there failure to make prominent reference to John Weare, who at an early day became interested in the banking business in Cedar Rapids and elsewhere. lie was also prominently identified with various other enterprises and through well directed energy and intelligent effort achieved notable success. There was no esoteric phase in all his career, but rather the gradual unfolding of powers that have enabled him to grasp and master each situation and bring his interests to prosperous conclusions.

Mr. Weare was born on the 5th of October, 1815, in Stanstead, province of Quebec, Lower Canada, his parents being John and Cynthia (Ashley) Weare. The family is of English origin and the name Weare in America can be traced back to 1638, where it appears in the town records of Hampton, New Hampshire, spelled by the town clerks in various ways, such as Ware, Wire, Wear, Weir, Weare and Wyer. Nathaniel Weare is the first of whom there is any mention. In 1659 he removed to Nantucket, where he died March 1, 1680, leaving a son, Nathaniel, who was born in England in 1630 and became an influential man of the Province of New Hampshire. He held many minor offices, serving as chief justice from 1674 to 1696, as councilor of the government of New Hampshire from 1692 to 1699 and again from July 31, 1699, to December 24, 1715, when he resigned in consideration of his great age. He died May 13, 1718, when in his eighty-seventh year. His son, Hon. Nathaniel Weare, sometimes called Deacon and at other times called Judge, was born August 29, 1669, and had two Sons, Captain Peter Weare and Mishech Weare. The latter, who was a graduate of Harvard in the class of 1735, became a very prominent and influential citizen of his community, holding many offices. In 1853 New Hampshire erected a monument to his memory at Hampton Falls, that state. His brother, Captain Peter Weare, was drowned April 13. 1743. His son, Elijah Weare, was born October 29, 1729, at New Yarmouth. Maine, and married Susanna Bangs. His son, Peter John Weare, born December 3, 1752, in Hampton, New Hampshire, married Hannah Nason and settled in Brome county, Canada, in 1793, but ten years later removed to Stanstead, where he died on the 20th of January, 1829, at the age of seventy-seven years. His second child was John Weare, Sr., the father of our subject.

John Weare, Sr., was born in Andover, New Hampshire, on the 28th of March, 1791, and was about three years of age on the removal of his parents to Canada. There he grew to manhood and was married August 1, 1811, to Miss Cynthia Ashley, whose birth occurred in Claremont, New Hampshire, in August, 1791. Her father was Colonel Ashley, an officer serving under the colonial government. She was a most noble woman and it was her influence that gave our subject his great respect for womankind and deferential manner in the presence of all ladies, which was one of his marked characteristics. His mother’s splendid physique, rare mental endowment and character gave the son a standard to which he ever referred in the presence of his children. She passed away in Allegan, Michigan, on the 16th of January, 1842, and the father died in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, April 6, 1856. He was a veteran of the war of 1812 and a man honored and respected by all who knew him. The children born to John and Cynthia (Ashley) Weare were as follows: Betsey Ann, born April 11, 1812, was married May 3, 1836, to John Little Shearer, who died February 20, 1859, while her death occurred December 9, 1859. Samuel Ashley Weare, born September 9, 1813, died March 8, 1816. John Weare, Jr., the subject of this sketch, is the next in order of birth. Henry [see above], born April 22, 1817, died June 2, 1846. Mary Ann, born February 25, 1819, was married December 25, 1835. to Alexander L. Ely, who died in Cedar Rapids, July 9, 1848, and on the 19th of January, 1853, she married John F. Ely, who died March 14, 1902, while her death occurred March 16, 1908. Lydia Baxter, born June 22, 1822, was married June 27, 1838, to Elisha D. Ely, who died January 18, 1849. She is still living in Boston, Massachusetts. Sarah, born May 7, 1823, died October 16, 1823. Sarah, born January 11, 1825, was married July 6, 1850, to Seymour David Carpenter and died in St. Louis, Missouri, March 8, 1889. Charles, born January 29, 1828, was married March 24, 1857 to Catharine Lavina Carroll and in 1848 became a resident of Cedar Rapids, where he died June 18, 1906. Harriette, born August 1, 1829, was married October 11, 1854, to Lowell Daniels, who died November 7, 1876, and on the 26th of July, 1882, she married Lawson Daniels, who died June 16, 1906. She is still living. George, born December 3, 1834, was married in Cedar Rapids, August 11, 1857, to Mary S. Carpenter, who died February 22, 1910. He died November 5. 1908, at Sioux City, Iowa, where he had become a prominent banker and business man, highly respected and esteemed by all who knew him.

In his youth John Weare, of this review, endured more privations than befall the average boy of the times. The condition of the country and circumstances of the family were such that he could devote but a few months each year to attending school, yet through the assistance of his mother and intelligent observation he became a well informed boy at the age of thirteen years. At that early age he began his business career as a clerk in the general store of his cousin, Portus Baxter, of Derby Line, Vermont. who afterward was a member of congress from that state from 1861 to 1867. It was there that Mr. Weare made his first venture in business, buying and selling cattle. In the spring of 1835 he accompanied his parents on their removal to Michigan, locating near the present city of Allegan, where he and his father bought land and engaged in the lumber business. It was while thus employed that his father met with an accident, having his leg crushed by a falling tree, and this placed the burden of flue support of the family upon the son, During their residence in that state both took a very active part in territorial affairs and John Weare, Jr., cast his first presidential vote for Henry Clay, the Whig candidate.

On the 1st of February, 1841, was celebrated his marriage to Miss Martha Parkhurst, who belonged to an old and influential family of Vermont, and who had removed to Michigan. She died on the 11th of August, 1858, at the early age of thirty-seven years. There were eight children born of that union, five sons and three daughters. Portus Baxter Weare, eldest son of John Weare, early developed great business ability. He made his home in Chicago and was a factor in the upbuilding of that enterprising city. He was a pioneer in the development of Alaska’s riches, being interested in the Klondike mines, and many of the vast fortunes made in that country are indebted to his enterprise and untiring energy. In the summer of 1892 his steamboat, the P. B. Weare, was taken in pieces to the mouth of the Yukon at St. Michael island and put together by native workmen, superintended by P. B. Weare and his son W. W. Weare. It was the first boat to go up this great river into the untold riches of this vast country. He died in Los Angeles, California, February 23, 1909. Laura, born May 19, 1843, was married September 7, 1864, to William W. Walker, who died in Chicago, September 23. 1893, and further mention of whom is made on another page of this volume. Alexander Ely, born April 15, 1845, died July 4, 1848. Mary Lucy, born February 23, 1847, died June 26, 1848. Ebenezer Ely, born May 16, 1849, died July 22, 1904. He married Miss Mary Fellows at Dawson, Yukon Territory, Alaska, on the 15th of February, 1899, and had two children, Martha and Buell Weare. Mrs. Weare and children now reside in Cedar Rapids. Charles Ashley, born September 7, 1852, was married May 26, 1880, to Lillie Compson and resides in Chicago. Edward, born February 27, 1855, died in November, 1856. Martha Parkhurst, born July 15, 1858, was married January 20, 1887, to Mark Morton and resides in Chicago.

During his early married life Mr. Weare removed to Otsego, Allegan county, Michigan, where he made his home for several years, engaged in agricultural pursuits. Believing that he might better his condition by a removal farther west, he came to Iowa in 1845, being attracted to this state by his sister, Mrs. John Shearer. He finally entered one hundred and sixty acres of land on the west side of Cedar river, opposite Cedar Rapids, and became identified with the early development and improvement of this region. He brought the first steel plow into Linn county, buying this at the Deere plow factory at Grand Detour, Illinois. In the year of his arrival here he took an active part in building a permanent dam in the Cedar river and also in the erection of a saw and grist mill, which became known as the Alexander Ely mill, named for his brother-in-law. In 1846 Mr. Weare brought his family to this county and his pioneer home here became the regular stopping place for the temperance lecturers and itinerant preachers who visited this region. His fellow citizens soon recognized his worth and ability and from 1845 until 1849 lie had large sums of money entrusted to his care by immigrants, and this suggested to him the establishment of a bank and land office here.  He therefore opened the first bank in Linn county, which was started during the rush of the gold seekers to California. In 1855 Mr. Weare, in company with others, established a chain of banks throughout the state, at Cedar Rapids, Sioux City, Des Moines, Fort Dodge and Iowa City, the last named being then the capital of the state. This firm did business under the name of Greene, Weare & Sherman, the senior member being the Hon. George Greene, mentioned elsewhere in this volume. All of Mr. Weare‘s business associates were men of worth and integrity and in this enterprise they met with most excellent success. In 1858 he assisted in the establishment of the railroad from Clinton to Cedar Rapids, giving it his financial support, and it became known as the Chicago, Iowa & Nebraska Railroad, now a part of the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad system. He provided the money for the first labor done along the line and as a railroad promoter was instrumental in opening up this state for settlement.

It was about this time that Mr. Weare lost his first wife and she was laid to rest in Oak Hill cemetery. Not many years prior to her death they had become interested in organizing a cemetery company in Cedar Rapids, which finally developed what is now Oak Hill, and to John Weare more than to any other man does this city of the dead owe its establishment and for thirteen years he served as president of the company. On the 26th of December, 1861, he was again married, his second union being with Miss Martha Campbell Rogers, a daughter of Dr. Rogers, of Clinton, Iowa, formerly of Buffalo, New York. Three children blessed this union. Susan Campbell, born April 9, 1863, is now the widow of William Hammond Hubbard, whom she married on the 15th of October, 1884. John, born November 7, 1866, died October 7, 1867. Sophie Rogers, born August 30, 1871, was married in October, 1893, to Eli Alexander Gage, now deceased. In the qualities which add to the attractiveness and comfort of the home Mrs. Weare is richly endowed. As wife and mother she has always done her full share in making the home attractive and hospitable throughout the community she is held in the highest esteem, enjoying the warm regard of friends and neighbors. In 1864 the national banking system was introduced and Mr. Weare was not long in adopting it, his bank becoming the First National Bank of Cedar Rapids. He filled the offices of cashier and president successively for a quarter of a century and on his determination to retire from the business he liquidated the affairs of the bank most creditably. He then turned his attention to agricultural pursuits and to stock raising, trading his city home for a country place overlooking the city. There he spent his remaining days, surrounded by a loving family and many friends. The poor and needy were always sure of his assistance and the struggling young men always found in him a friend, many of these owing their start to “Uncle John Weare,” as he was familiarly called. His influence and capital were factors in the establishment of many important business enterprises, which were carried forward during his life time in Cedar Rapids. He believed in making the town a railroad center and became financially interested and also an officer in several railroad companies. When the city aspired to the improvements of a city he was foremost in investing his money and exerting his influence in its behalf. He advocated and gave substantial support to the paving of the streets and his plans were accepted for the water works. Many factories also owe their presence in Cedar Rapids to Mr. Weare and it is safe to say that during the development of the city no man bore a more active or prominent part. He never cared for official honors, though he once served as a trustee of Linn county and as a member of the board of education, always taking an active interest in educational affairs, and was a helpful friend of Coe College. At one time he purchased an interest in the Daily Republican in order to save it and it has since become one of the leading newspapers of the state. An earnest and consistent Christian gentleman, he became one of the first members of the Young Men’s Christian Association in Cedar Rapids and always remained one of its most helpful friends. He was also greatly interested in the Home for the Friendless, which often received his support, and no worthy enterprise was ever neglected that needed his financial support or influence. He was an ideal gentleman of the old school, dignified yet genial and approachable, was a fine horseman and very fond of music. During the last ten years of his life his winters were spent mostly at resorts, where he went with the hope of benefiting his rheumatism, and his death occurred at Hot Springs, Arkansas, on the 10th of March, 1891. His remains were brought back to Cedar Rapids for interment, and here he was laid to rest four days later. During the funeral services the banks of the city were closed in honor of one who for many years was so prominently identified with the banking interests of Cedar Rapids and the state. Those who knew him best speak in the highest terms of his business ability, integrity and honor, and the important part he bore in the development of Iowa can never be estimated. The Republican, in speaking of him, said “he was genial, affable, courteous and obliging in manner, a gentleman of the old school, of which Sir Roger de Coverley is in literature the best type. He was a careful and shrewd observer of social and business movements and a thorough student of men and motives. In early years he was by nature and education a leader among the pioneers. Long before many of us who are now engaged in active work were residents of the state this man of affairs had done enough work as a commonwealth builder to have earned the right to ‘rest and dignity,’ which of late years he had in a large measure enjoyed.”

Source: History of Linn County Iowa, From Its Earliest Settlement to the Present Time, Vol. II, Chicago, The Pioneer Publishing Company, 1911, p. 66-72.

Contributed by: Terry Carlson

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CHARLES B. WEBB

The improvement and cultivation of a farm of one hundred and five acres claims the time and attention of Charles B. Webb, who is a native son of Linn county, born February 21, 1857. He is a worthy representative of a pioneer family, his parents, John W. and Elizabeth (Tracy) Webb, having located in Linn county in 1853. The father was born in Kentucky, while the mother was born in Virginia. As above stated, they came to Linn county in 1853 and the father purchased land here, on which he erected a log cabin, in which the family lived for many years. He soon placed his land under cultivation and as the years passed and the country became more thickly settled and numerous improvements were being made, he replaced his crude home with a more modern structure and erected substantial outbuildings on the place. He was identified with the agricultural interests of this section of Iowa for almost four decades, or until his demise, which occurred June 24, 1891. His wife survived for a number of years, when in 1902 she, too, was called to the home beyond. In their family were twelve children, but only seven are now living.

Charles B. Webb remained under the parental roof until, he reached the age of twenty-nine years. In the meantime he had been trained to the work of the fields as he assisted his father from the time of early spring planting until the crops were harvested in the late autumn, so that when he started out in life on his own account he understood thoroughly the best methods of agriculture.

It was at the period in life above mentioned that Mr. Webb established a home of his own by his marriage to Miss Anna Adams, who was born in Linn county in 1866, a daughter of John and Myra J. Adams, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work. Following his marriage Mr. Webb took his bride to a farm near Center Point, which he had previously purchased and there he lived for fifteen years, when he disposed of that tract and purchased his present homestead comprising one hundred and five acres in Marion township. He is here engaged in raising the cereals best adapted to the soil but he keeps much of his land for pasturage, as he raises considerable stock, and in this branch of business he is meeting with gratifying success.

The home of Mr. and Mrs. Webb has been blessed with three children, but the second in order of birth died in infancy. The surviving members are Lindley and Marjorie M., both at home. The parents are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Webb is a democrat in his political views and affiliations but aside from serving on the school board as a director, he has never held public office. Both he and his wife are natives of Linn county, where they have spent their entire lives and they are thus well known in this section of the state, being numbered among the esteemed residents of Marion township.

Source: History of Linn County Iowa, From Its Earliest Settlement to the Present Time, Vol. II, Chicago, The Pioneer Publishing Company, 1911, p. 51-2.

Contributed by: Terry Carlson

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HENRY WERNER

Henry Werner, who has won a gratifying measure of success in his operations as a market gardener, is the owner of a tract of fifteen acres in Cedar township. His birth occurred in Salem, North Carolina, on the 13th of April, 1853, his parents being Charles and Catherine (Bryld) Werner. In 1851 they crossed the Atlantic from Germany to the United States, locating in North Carolina, where they made their home until 1859. That year witnessed their return to the fatherland but later they once more came to America, taking up their abode in Linn county, Iowa, in 1880. During the remainder of their lives they resided on a farm in Monroe township, Charles Werner passing away in August, 1899, while his wife was called to her final rest in 1892. Their children were six in number, as follows: Henry, of this review; Emily, the wife of F. Keller, of Brooklyn, New York; Edward, who is a resident of Monroe township, this county; Marie, who is the widow of Peter Ark and makes her home in Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Elizabeth, the wife of George Cummins, of Cedar Rapids; and David, who passed away in 1858.

Henry Werner, who was a lad of six years when he accompanied his parents on the voyage to Germany, received the advantages of a high school education in that country. He remained at home until eighteen years of age and then went east to New York, where he remained until 1876. After returning to Linn county, Iowa, he worked for two years as a farm hand and then gave his attention to the cultivation of rented land for several years. Subsequently he purchased a tract of fifteen acres in Cedar township, improved the place and has since operated it as a truck farm, his garden vegetables finding a ready sale on the market.

In October, 1875, Mr.. Werner was united in marriage to Miss Annie Hanson, a daughter of Christopher and Catherine (Peterson) Hanson, who spent their entire lives in Denmark. Mrs. Werner came to Linn county in 1876 and by her marriage became the mother of twelve children, namely: Charles, who is a resident of North Dakota; Katie, at home; Mary, the wife of R. H. Turner, of Buchanan county, Iowa; Edward, likewise living in North Dakota; Anna, Harry H., Esther and Martha, all of whom are at home; Sarah, who died when seventeen years of age; Matilda, who passed away at the age of seven; and Elizabeth and Harry, both of whom died when a year old.

Since age conferred upon him the right of franchise Mr. Werner has supported the men and measures of the republican party, believing its principles most conducive to good government. He is the present assessor of Cedar township and has held that office for ten years, while for sixteen years he has been on the school board as secretary. His religions faith is indicated by his membership in the Evangelical church. He has long resided in this county and his life, ever upright and honorable, has gained for him the warm esteem and unqualified confidence of those with whom business or social relations have brought him in contact.

Source: History of Linn County Iowa, From Its Earliest Settlement to the Present Time, Vol. II, Chicago, The Pioneer Publishing Company, 1911, p. 21-2.

Contributed by: Terry Carlson

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DAVID McKAY WEST

David McKay West, for many years a highly esteemed and well known resident of Linn county, passed away at Cedar Rapids on the 15th of September, 1906, in St. Luke’s hospital, whither he had been conveyed from the family home for surgical treatment. Throughout his active business career he devoted his attention to the pursuits of farming and stock-raising and in these branches of activity met with a gratifying measure of success.

His birth occurred near Washington Court House, Fayette county, Ohio, on the 14th of November, 1856, his parents being Wesley and Polly Ann (McKay)  West. The father, a native of Kentucky, was reared in Ohio and in 1859 brought his family to this county, spending the remainder of his life on a farm in Franklin township. He passed away in 1894 at the age of eighty-five years, and thus the community lost one of its most worthy and respected pioneer settlers. His widow, who still survives him, now resides with a daughter at Ponca, Nebraska. Their children were ten in number, five sons and five daughters, all of whom reached years of maturity. The record is as follows: Sarah, the wife of J. T. Oldham, of Eldorado, Kansas; Margaret, who is the widow of Jeremiah Thomas and resides in Lisbon; Isaac, who is a neighbor of Mrs. David West; Thomas, living in Guthrie, Oklahoma; Harriet, the deceased wife of Homer Harper, of Minneapolis, Minnesota; Elijah, who makes his home in Pierre, South Dakota; Ely, who is a resident of Franklin township, this county; David McKay, of this review; Flora, the deceased wife of George Waln; and Mary, the wife of Rev. Charles Kirk, of Ponca, Nebraska.

David McKay West was but three years of age when brought by his parents to Linn county and here he continued to reside throughout the remainder of his ‘life, living on the home farm during practically the entire period. His preliminary education, obtained in the public schools, was supplemented by a course of study at Cornell College. The old homestead property comprised one hundred and seventy-one acres of land, partly within the corporation limits of Mount Vernon and partly adjoining the town on the south. In the fall of 1877 Wesley West erected a handsome and commodious brick residence, which in 1897 was remodeled by our subject. The latter made a specialty of the feeding of stock and his efforts in this direction were rewarded with gratifying results. In addition to the home farm he likewise owned a quarter section of land in Greenfield township, Jones county, which is now in possession of his widow.

The following is an excerpt from an obituary appearing in one of the local  papers at the time of his demise. “Mr. West succeeded to a good estate, but was in addition one of the industrious, thrifty and substantial residents of the community. His farming operations were always conducted upon the improvement policy and steadily advanced until in every particular he became an example of the highest character of that honorable following in one of the finest agricultural sections of the nation.”

On the 15th of February, 1885, at Van Horn, Iowa, Mr. West was joined in wedlock to Miss Maria Louise Pfautz, who was born in Lisbon, Linn county, on the 27th day of November, 1860, her parents being Samuel and Mary (McAllister) Pfautz. The father, whose birth occurred at Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in 1819, came to Lisbon, Iowa, in 1847, first residing with the Hon. J. E. Kurtz for a time. Later he embarked in the mercantile business at Lisbon in association with his brother Jacob, while subsequently he purchased a farm north of the town. It was in 1855, at Marion, that he wedded Miss Mary McAllister, who was born in Kingston, Ontario, in 1830, and who came to Mount Vernon, this county, in 1852, with her parents. She is a daughter of Enos and Nancy (Craig) McAllister, her mother being a sister of Thomas Craig, who took up his abode here in the ‘30s and received a deed from President Polk. Samuel Pfautz passed away in Cedar Rapids at the age of eighty-five years, and his widow now resides there with a daughter. They reared a family of six children, as follows: Anna, who lives in Cedar Rapids with her mother; Margaret, the wife of Sherman Riddle, of Eldon, Iowa; Mrs. West; John, living at Knife River, Minnesota; Ella, the wife of J. Strouse, of Phoenix, Arizona; and Alice, who is the wife of Newell Whitsell, of Chicago.

Mrs. David M. West remained in the place of her nativity until two years prior to her marriage, when she accompanied her parents on their removal to Van Horn. She attended Cornell College for two years and afterward taught school for several years, proving a capable and successful educator. By her marriage she has become the mother of three daughters, namely: Grace, who is a high school graduate and also attended Cornell College for two years; Gail, who won the degree of A. B. in Cornell College, also pursued a course in oratory and is now studying oratory in Columbia University of New York city; and Vera, who is a junior in Cornell College. Miss Gail West has won local renown as a reader, having taken part in college plays and also in the entertainments furnished by the college glee club. She was awarded first honors in a high school oratorical contest and won second place at the academy here.

Mr. West was a stanch republican in politics and took an active interest in public affairs, shirking none of the duties of a patriotic, loyal citizen. As a member of the board of education at Mount Vernon he labored effectively to advance the best interests of the schools. In 1891 he was converted and became a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and for a number of years served on its board of trustees. His Christianity found expression in his daily life and his faith in the Savior remained unshaken to the end, so that his passing was serene and beautiful. His remains were interred in the Mount Vernon cemetery. He was companionable by nature, devoted to his home and family and happiest always in furthering their interest and comfort. In the community where practically his entire life has been spent the news of his death brought a feeling of deep bereavement, for lie had won a high place in the regard and esteem of many. Mrs. West, who still resides on the farm in Franklin township, is likewise widely and favorably known, her many good traits of heart and mind having endeared her to all with whom she has come in contact.

Source: History of Linn County Iowa, From Its Earliest Settlement to the Present Time, Vol. II, Chicago, The Pioneer Publishing Company, 1911, p. 287-9.

Contributed by: Terry Carlson

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ADAM WHITLATCH

Adam Whitlatch, a retired farmer and highly respected citizen of Mt. Vernon, was born in Perry county, Ohio, October 16, 1837, and is a son of John W. and Annie (Mann) Whitlatch, who were born, reared and married in Pennsylvania.  He was only two years old when, in 1839, the family came to Linn county, Iowa, and located on a farm in Linn township, seven miles northwest of Mt. Vernon, being among the earliest settlers of this region.  Later his parents removed to Hardin county, Iowa, where the mother died.  The father’s death occurred in Nebraska.  In their family were the following children: Jennie, widow of Adam Mann and a resident of Linn township, this county; Mary A., widow of David Mann and a resident of Steele county, Minnesota; William who married Hulda Phillips, now deceased, and lives in the state of Washington; Rebecca, wife of Peter Mann, of Steele county, Minnesota; Polly M., widow of William Wood and a resident of Mt. Vernon, Iowa; David, who married Almira Sammons, now deceased, and makes his home in California; Adam, the subject of this sketch; Rachel, widow of George Rundall and a resident of Genoa, Nebraska; Sarah, wife of Amos Stevens, of St. Edward, Nebraska; and Mahala, wife of Scott Willard, of St. Edwards.

After the family located in Linn county it was quite a while before a school-house was built in their neighborhood, but one was finally built of logs, and supplied with seats made of split logs with pegs for legs.  At first there were no desks, and those made consisted of a board laid across pins driven into the wall.  Our subject had little opportunity to attend school, as his father was not able to pay the subscription and there were no public schools at that time, but his training at farm work was not so meager and he assisted in the labors of the home place until twenty-four years of age.

During the Civil war Mr. Whitlatch enlisted October 11, 1861, in Company A, Thirteenth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, which was mustered into the United States service at Davenport, and then sent to St. Louis, and later to Jefferson City, Missouri.  On their return to St. Louis they boarded the steamer Hiawatha and were conveyed to Shiloh, taking part in the battle at that place, April 6 and 7, 1862.  They participated in the siege of Corinth and the battle at that place October 4 and 5, and then went to Ripley, where they defeated the rebels.  Returning to Corinth, they remained there for a time, and then went down through Mississippi to get in the rear of Vicksburg, but at Holly Springs the rebels got in behind them and blew up their base of supplies, so that they had to return to La Fayette on the Memphis & Charleston Railroad.  They next went down the river from Memphis to Milliken’s Bend, just above Vicksburg, from there to Lake Providence, and then back to Milliken’s Bend.  They marched round Vicksburg to Grand Gulf, and then crossed the river and took their stand opposite Vicksburg.  They were next sent to prevent Johnston from crossing Black river, and at the time of the surrender of Vicksburg it was their duty to keep Johnston from going to the relief of the fort.  After spending some time at that place they went up the Yazoo river to Yazoo City, and then back to Vicksburg, where they went into winter quarters.  While there Mr. Whitlatch re-enlisted for three years, and went with his command on the Meridian raid.  He was then granted a furlough and spent one month at home.  Taking a boat at Clinton, Iowa, he then went down the river to Cairo, and up the Tennessee to Clifton, from which place his command marched across the country to join General Sherman’s army, which they avertook at Big Shanty, Georgia.  During the following forty-eight days they were almost constantly under fire.  On the 2^d of July, 1864, they drove the enemy across the Chattahoochie river, and then fell back, fighting for three days.  On the 22^d of that month Mr. Whitlatch was captured at Atlanta, and for two months was confined in the noted Andersonville prison.  While en route from the place of his capture to Andersonville the train was wrecked between East Point and Macon, Georgia.  He was then taken to Charleston, South Carolina, and a month later to Florence, that state, from which place he was transferred to Wilmington, was later sent to Goldsboro, then back to Wilmington and again to Goldsboro.  He was finally turned over to the Union forces at Wilmington, February 27, 1865, but was ill at that time from the effects of his imprisonment, and was taken by a steamer to a hospital in New York, where he remained until able to travel.  He was then sent to Newburn, North Carolina, but as his regiment had started on the march he was taken to Alexandria, Virginia.  He participated in the grand review at Washington, D.C., May 24, 1865, and was mustered out of service at Louisville, Kentucky, on the 21^st of July, being paid off at Davenport.

In history we read of the spring of pure water that so suddenly burst forth inside the stockade of Andersonville prison, when the thousands of prisoners were dying from thirst.  Our subject was there at the time and can vouch for the truth of the miracle.

On his return home Mr. Whitlatch resumed farming.  He was married, on the 31^st of October, 1866, the lady of his choice being Miss Philomela Carnahan, who was born in Muskingum county, Ohio, February 1, 1848, and is a daughter of Jacob and Mary (Phillips) Carnahan, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio, respectively.  They were married in the latter state and in 1849 removed to Ivanhoe, Iowa, where the father worked at the carpenter’s trade for a short time, and then went to Jones county, making his home there for eight years.  He next came to Linn county, but afterward removed to Jasper county, Iowa, where he remained until the breaking out of the Civil war, when he enlisted in Company D, Fortieth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, and served three years.  In the meantime his family removed to Springville, Linn county, where he lived for ten years, but for the past twenty-eight years has been a resident of Colorado, his home being at Palmer Lake, fifty miles south of Denver.  He had seven children, namely: Mary, deceased wife of Frank McShane, of Brown township, this county; Philomela, wife of our subject; John, who married Margaret Brockman, now deceased, and lives in Springville, Iowa; Electa, wife of Daniel Winchell, of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Jennie, wife of Lorenzo Lamkins and resides in Texas; Adelaide, deceased wife of Horace Bemis, of Pasadena, California; and Leston, who is supposed to have lost his life in the Rocky mountains.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Whitlatch were born nine children, of whom the oldest, born September 2, 1867, died in infancy; Delcina, born August 31, 1868, is the wife of John Belk, of Buchanan county, Iowa; John, born May 3, 1870, lives on a farm in Franklin wife of James Hoffman, of Franklin township; Dora, born April 3, 1872, is the township [should probably say: John, born May 3, 1879 lives on a farm in Franklin township; Dora, born April 3, 1872 is the wife of James Hoffman of Franklin township]; Anna, born December 5, 1875, resides with her parents; Mattie, born February 26, 1877, is the wife of Alvin Russell, of Franklin township; Ida, born July 13, 1881, Otis Howard, born July 24, 1882, and Hazel, born June 2, 1886, are all at home.

After his marriage Mr. Whitlatch located on a farm of fifty acres on section 16, Linn township, which he had previously purchased, and made that his home for seventeen years.  On selling that place he bought a farm of eighty acres on section 36, Franklin township, and continued his residence there until his retirement from active labor, March 4, 1901, when he removed to Mt. Vernon.  In time of war he was a brave and fearless soldier, and in time of peace is an excellent citizen, taking a deep and commendable interest in public affairs.  By his ballot he supports the Republican party, while religiously he is a member of the United Brethren church.

Source: The Biographical Record of Linn County Iowa, Illustrated, Chicago: The S. J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1901, pages 148-150.

Submitted by: Carrie J. Robertson of Marion

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I. H. WHITMAN

The subject of this sketch is a practical and enterprising farmer who owns and operates a valuable farm on section 26, Franklin township, and in its management is meeting with excellent success.  A native of Linn county, he was born in Lisbon October 30, 1863, and is a worthy representative of an old and honored family of this county.  His father, Henry Whitman, was born in Dauphin county, Pennsylvania, December 13, 1823, and in early life married Miss Mary Dewey, also a native of that state, who died in 1854, leaving three children, namely: Mary, wife of William Connor, of California; Kate, wife of William Gorwel, of Nevada, Iowa; and Lucinda, wife of William Humphrey, of Ripley, Oklahoma.

In the spring of 1856 Henry Whitman came west and located in Lisbon, Iowa, where he worked at the mason’s trade for some time.  In 1864 he bought a farm of forty acres on section 26, Franklin township, and four years later added to it a tract of fifty-five acres.  In 1880 he purchased forty acres more, making a farm of one hundred and thirty-five acres, which he operated for many years, but is now practically living retired, while his son carries on the place.  He was again married, in the fall of 1857, his second wife being Catherine Stucker, also a native of Pennsylvania, who died in 1888, and was laid to rest in the Lisbon cemetery.  Two children were born of this union, namely: Malinda, wife of Michael Abel, of Lisbon; and I. H., our subject.  The Republican party has always found in Mr. Whitman a stanch supporter of its principles, and for a number of years he most capably filled the office of road supervisor.  He is an active and prominent member of the Lutheran church at Lisbon, with which he has long been officially connected, serving as deacon for many years.

I.H. Whitman attended the public schools of Franklin township until fifteen years of age, and then worked with his father upon the home farm until he attained his majority, when he went to Laramie, Wyoming, to engage in railroad work.  He also drove a stage coach from that place to Rawlins, and led the life of a cowboy for a time.  Returning home in 1888 he leased his father’s farm for four years, and then purchased the same, later adding to it a tract of forty-five acres, so that he now has one hundred and eighty acres of very valuable and productive land.  He has made many improvements upon the place, including the erection of a fine barn, erected at a cost of fourteen hundred dollars.  It is one of the best improved and most desirable farms in that section of the county.  In connection with general farming Mr. Whitman is very successfully engaged in the breeding of short horn cattle, of which he has a fine herd upon his place.  He also breeds Norman horses, and raises mules, hogs and sheep for market, and feeds all the grain which he raises to his stock.  Like his father, he is a stanch supporter of the Republican party, and he has served as school director for a number of years.

At Lisbon, November 28, 1889, Mr. Whitman was united in marriage with Miss Nettie C. Cantrell, who was born in Carroll county, Illinois, November 12, 1865.  Her father, David P. Cantrell, was a native of Ohio, and was twice married, his first wife being Miss Eleanor McLemore, a native of Illinois, by whom he had four children, namely: Young, who married, first, Eveline Busell, and after her death wedded Emma Hubband, and now resides in Milledgeville, Illinois; Katie, wife of George Riddle, of Rushville, Nebraska; Erastus, who died at the age of seventeen years; and Sarah, who died in infancy.  The mother of these children died in Illinois, and for his second wife Mr. Cantrell married Ursulla Bull, who was born in Pennsylvania.  Three children blessed this union: Edie, wife of A.C. Kirkpatrick, of Lisbon; Wiott, who married Maggie Snyder and lives in Sanburn, Iowa; and Nettie C., wife of our subject.  In 1873 Mr. Cantrell brought his family to Iowa, and settled on a farm east of Lisbon, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits until 1889, when he sold his place and removed to Lisbon, living retired until his death, which occurred in January, 1892.  His second wife died in August, 1894, and both were buried at Lisbon.

Mr. and Mrs. Whitman have an interesting family of six children, whose names and dates of birth are as follows: Clara, November 24, 1890; Frank, December 3, 1892; Laura, October 16, 1894; Louie, June 8, 1896; Harry, October 17, 1898; and Carl Clare, November 5, 1900.  Those who reached a sufficient age are now attending school.

Source: The Biographical Record of Linn County Iowa, Illustrated, Chicago: The S. J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1901, pages 175-177.

Submitted by: Carrie J. Robertson of Marion

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EDWARD E. WILCOX

Edward E. Wilcox, secretary of the Cedar Rapids Commission Company, was born in Tipton, Iowa, August 12, 1874. His father, William Wilcox, who died in 1902, was one of the distinguished educators of the state and for two different years was honored with the presidency of the Iowa State Teachers Association. He was for many years connected with the public schools and his labors were a most potent force in advancing the standard of public instruction in this state. He also served as a member of the National Educational Council about 1897. His wife, Mrs. Anna Wilcox, was a daughter of J. C. Betts, who at one time occupied the bench of the Cedar county court and at different times filled the positions of county treasurer and county clerk. He was long the incumbent in public office, his duties being discharged with a promptness, capability and fidelity that made his record an irreproachable one.

Edward E. Wilcox was educated in the public schools of Mason City, Iowa, and in Cornell College, from which he was graduated. Following in his father’s footsteps he took up school work as a profession in 1897, devoting three years to teaching. But believing that he would find commercial pursuits more congenial and profitable, he turned his attention to the clothing business at Mount Vernon, Iowa, in which he continued from 1900 until 1906. In the latter year he sold out and went upon a ranch which he owned in North Dakota, there remaining for two years. He came to Cedar Rapids about a year ago, or in the early part of 1909, and purchased the interest of T. C. Munger in the Cedar Rapids Commission Company, in which he now holds the position of secretary. His previous experience in different lines, his ready adaptability and his keen insight into every situation enable him to carefully control the interests which are now under his direction and contribute in substantial measure to the success of what is now one of the leading enterprises of this character in Cedar Rapids.

Mr. Wilcox was married on the 30th of October, 1901, to Miss Marian Bailey, a daughter of Laura F. Bailey, of Marion, Linn county. Mr. Wilcox belongs to the Masonic fraternity in which he has taken the degrees of the chapter. He is also a member of the University Club and cooperates in the organized movements instituted by the Commercial Club for the development of the city along the lines of material upbuilding and of civic virtue and pride.

Source: History of Linn County Iowa, From Its Earliest Settlement to the Present Time, Vol. II, Chicago, The Pioneer Publishing Company, 1911, p. 222-3.

Contributed by: Terry Carlson

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William K. Wild
(also includes biographical information about his father, David Wild)

One of the valuable farm properties of Linn county is that owned by William K. Wild. It is situated in Brown township and comprises one hundred acres of land naturally rich and arable. Moreover, the methods he has employed in its cultivation have added to its productiveness and the appearance of the farm is further enhanced by its excellent buildings, in keeping with the most modern and progressive ideas concerning agricultural development. Mr. Wild is a native of Grant county, Wisconsin. He was born December 24, 1867, and is a son of David and Mary Ann (Kay) Wild, who were natives of England and Wisconsin respectively. The father was born in Cumberland county, England, September 15, 1836, and was a son of Joseph and Jane (Southward) Wild, who were also natives of that country, the former born in Lancashire and the latter in Cumberland. They spent their entire lives in England, Joseph Wild there following the blacksmith's trade.

David Wild acquired his education in private schools and had reached the age of thirteen years and five months when he was apprenticed to the joiner's and wagon maker's trade, devoting his time thereto until his emigration to the United States in 1858. On leaving England it was his intention to go to Australia but on landing at New York he was persuaded by the companion with whom he had worked in the shops in England and who had a brother in Minnesota, to visit in that state. They crossed the ocean on a sailing vessel, being forty-two days on the voyage. The ship on which they made the trip from Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, to St. Paul carried the first message ever sent across the Atlantic cable - a message of congratulation from Queen Victoria to President Buchanan. They remained in Minnesota for only about a month and then came west in search of work. On reaching Dubuque, Iowa, David Wild secured employment at making doors and there remained for about a year and a half, when he went to Georgetown, Grant county, Wisconsin, where he opened a wagon shop. He served as a bridge builder in the Civil war, after which he returned to Wisconsin, there remaining until 1868, when he came to Iowa, settling on a farm in Brown township, Linn county. His first purchase made him owner of eighty acres, to which he afterward added another eighty-acre tract. For many years he carried on general agricultural pursuits but in the spring of 1910 retired from active life and removed to Springville, where he is now living. His wife died August 31, 1909. David Wild is a member of the Episcopal church, gives his political allegiance to the democratic party and is identified with William Carbee Post, G. A. R.  Unto Mr. and Mrs. David Wild were born thirteen children, as follows: Mrs. James Pearson; Mrs. George E. Calvert, who is a resident of Jones county; William K. of this review; Mrs. Vinton Smith, living in Cedar Rapids; John, a resident of Marion; Charles S., who makes his home in Maine township, Linn county; Alice, the wife of W. S. Cooper, of Edmunds county, South Dakota; Rosa M., who is the wife of Wilbur Hakes and resides in Marion; George and Fred, who operate the home farm on section 6; Edward, an agriculturist of Jones county; Leona, a teacher of Brown township; and Bertha, at home.

William K. Wild spent his youthful days in his parents' home. He was only about a year old when brought from Wisconsin to Iowa and in the public schools of the state he acquired his education. He remained at home until his twenty-first year, when he went to Jones county and opened up a general store at the small town of Cass, there conducting business for five years. He then sold out and went to Delaware county, purchasing a store in the town of Delaware, of which he remained proprietor for two years. At the end of that time the building and store were destroyed by fire and retiring from the mercantile field, he came to Linn county, and purchased his present valuable farm of one hundred acres in Brown township, upon which he has since carried on general agricultural pursuits. His is an excellent property and in its splendid appearance gives every indication of the careful supervision and practical methods of the owner.

Mr. Wild was married on the 15th of June, 1898, to Miss Lucy Day, of Anamosa, Iowa, a daughter of Simon Day, a prominent farmer living near Anamosa. By this marriage two children have been born, Bessie Leola and Opal Izetta. Mr. Wild is a member of Elpidon Lodge, No. 241, K. P., and Springville Camp, No 3346, M. W. A. He has followed in his father's political footsteps and gives his support to the democracy. In the various things which he has undertaken he has manifested unfaltering diligence and determination and has made continuous progress, so that he is now one of the substantial citizens of Brown township. His strongly developed traits of character are such as have won him the highest regard and he has many friends in the county.

Source: History of Linn County Iowa, From Its Earliest Settlement to the Present Time, Vol. II, Chicago, The Pioneer Publishing Company, 1911, p. 767-8.

Transcribed by: Terry Carlson

For a family home page about David Wild and family submitted by Tammy Wild: click here.

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MARVIN WILSEY

Marvin Wilsey, who has won a gratifying measure of prosperity as a tiller of the soil and a raiser of stock, is the proprietor of Orchard Grove Farm, a tract of land comprising two hundred and four acres on section 14, Washington township. His birth occurred in New York on the 9th of January. 1842, his parents being Otis and Louisa (Coffin) Wilsey, who were likewise natives of the Empire state. The father, whose natal year was 1811, there passed away in 1891, and the mother was called to her final rest in l896. Unto them were born eight children, five of whom are yet living.

Marvin Wilsey remained at home until he had attained his majority and is indebted to the common schools for the educational advantages he enjoyed in his youthful years. After leaving the parental roof he worked in the lumber camps for a year and on the expiration of that period came to Linn county, Iowa, purchasing forty acres of his present home farm in 1865. As the years passed by and his financial resources increased, owing to his untiring industry and capable management, he extended the boundaries of the place by additional purchase until it now embraces two hundred and four acres of rich and productive land. He has placed many substantial improvements on the property, which in its neat and thrifty appearance indicates the supervision of a practical and progressive owner. In addition to the cultivation of cereals he makes a specialty of raising shorthorn cattle and Poland China hogs and his undertakings in both connections have proved profitable.

On the 7th of February, 1865, Mr. Wilsey was united in marriage to Miss Calphurnia V. Rowley, who was born in New York, July 27, 1843, her parents being William and Jane (Barton) Rowley, natives of New York. They came to Linn county in May, 1865, and here the father passed away, his demise occurring in 1899. The mother still survives and now makes her home with our subject. Mrs. Wilsey, who was one of a family of four daughters, is a high school graduate and taught school in early womanhood. By her marriage she became the mother of seven children, as follows: Nathaniel P., who was called to his final rest November 13, 1889; Lucretia C., the wife of William Servison, of Washington township; George W., who resides in Canada; Otis, living in Soldier, Idaho; Laura, the wife of Oliver Reynolds, of Soldier, Idaho; and Silas R. and Herrick, both at home.

In his political views Mr. Wilsey is a democrat and is now ably discharging the duties devolving upon him in the capacity of township trustee. He likewise held the office of assessor at one time. Fraternally he is identified with the Masons, belonging to the lodge and chapter at Center Point and having filled all of the chairs in the lodge. Both he and his wife are consistent and faithful members of the Methodist Episcopal church, doing all in their power to promote its growth and extend its influence. They have continuously resided in Washington township during the past forty-five years and their lives have been such as to commend them to the confidence and esteem of all with whom they have been associated.

Source: History of Linn County Iowa, From Its Earliest Settlement to the Present Time, Vol. II, Chicago, The Pioneer Publishing Company, 1911, p. 37-8.

Contributed by: Terry Carlson

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Amos Witter, M.D.

In the early days there was probably no one in Linn County more widely or favorably known than Dr. Witter, who was not only a successful physician of Mt. Vernon, but also took a very prominent and influential part in public affairs. He was born in Phelps, Ontario county, New York, March 24, 1807, a son of Alfred and Deborah (Dunwell) Witter, natives of Connecticut. The father was born at Preston, in 1779 and during his youth removed to Peru, Massachusetts, and later to Ontario county, New York, where he died in 1864. He became a Master Mason in 1801, and later took the Royal Arch degrees at Painesville, Ohio.

Dr. Witter was the third in order of birth in a family of thirteen children, and was ten years of age when he accompanied his parents on their removal to Lake county, Ohio. Although he was taken from the advantages of a more settled community to the wilds of Ohio, this did not prove a misfortune as it tended to develop the latent genius of a high-minded and noble boy. He lived with his parents at Kirtland until fifteen years of age, when he commenced the study of medicine with Dr. Chapman, of Middlebury, Ohio, having already obtained a good common-school education. Although his educational privileges were meager, he made the best use of the good books to which he obtained access, and became competent to teach, by which pursuit he secured the money with which to pay his way through college. He attended a course of lectures at the medical college in Cincinnati, and was considered the best scholar in the class. After graduating from that institution he also received a diploma from the medical board of Cleveland, Ohio, and began the practice of his profession at Attica, Seneca county, Ohio.

In the meantime Dr. Witter had married, and on account of the failing health of his wife he removed to Seville, Ohio, where she died, and he afterward located at Chagrin Falls, that state, where he made his home until going to Belvidere, Illinois. He built up quite a good practice at that place. In 1849 he started for California with his family in a wagon drawn by three yoke of oxen, and they carried their cooking utensils and provisions with them, but on their arrival in Clinton county, Iowa, he traded his team for a tract of land near the Wapsipinicon river, where he remained one year, and then sold his property and removed to Tipton, Cedar county, where he was engaged in the practice of his profession with good success for four years. In 1854 he became a resident of Dixon, Scott county, where he lived for three years, and then in order to give his children better educational advantages he came to Mt. Vernon, where he continued to make his home throughout the remainder of his life.

On the 24^th of January, 1830, Dr. Witter was united in marriage with Miss Mary Anne Burr, who was born in Harrisville, Medina county, Ohio, May 18, 1814 and died October 31, 1843. The only child born of this union died in infancy. The Doctor was again married, August 28, 1844, his second union being with Miss Jerusha Nelson, who was born in Suffield, Hartford county, Connecticut, March 13 1815 and was a daughter of Philip and Rowena (Stiles) Nelson, natives of Connecticut and Massachusetts, respectively. Five children were born to them. Mary A. B., born July 9, 1845, is the principal of the high school at Denver, Colorado. Emma A., born November 10, 1846, was married on the 29^th of December, 1871, to Thomas B. Hutson, who was born in Henry county, Indiana, February 6, 1846. For nine years after their marriage he was engaged in farming and well drilling at Union, after which they removed to Dexter, Iowa. On account of failing health, Mr. Hutson then started west, but died at Burr Oak, Kansas, March 13, 1882. He was in the one hundred days’ service during the Civil war, enlisting May 18, 1864, in Company C, Forty-fourth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, and being discharged September 15, 1864. Mr. and Mrs. Hutson had five children: Edna, born May 23, 1873, died July 29, 1874; Daisy M., born August 28, 1887, at home; Thomas E., born March 24, 1880, a soldier in the regular army, being a  member of Company I, Tenth United States Infantry, is now with his command in the Philippines; and Josephine L., born January 29, 1882, at home. Franklin Eberle, born April 7, 1848, married Frances E. Foster, who owns and conducts a large cattle ranch at Roscoe, South Dakota. They are the parents of six children, as follows: Mary, born June 18, 1877; Marvin, born July 29, 1879, died November 14, 1900; Ruth, born May 30, 1881; Eva, born September 25, 1885; Clara, born June 20, 1887; and Florence, born January 5, 1894. Clara, born January 11, 1851, is the widow of William Hauser, and lives on the old home farm near Mt. Vernon. She became the mother of three children: Amos W., born November 12, 1874; Irvin, April 23, 1879; and Carl, November 4, 1880. Amos Nelson died at the age of five months.

When the Civil war broke out Dr. Witter offered his services to his country, and was at once commissioned surgeon of the famous Seventh Iowa Infantry. Through the campaign in Missouri he passed many trying ordeals, and especially distinguished himself at the battle of Belmont. He was brave and fearless on the field of battle and was always found at his post of duty, caring for the sick and wounded wherever they might be. Shortly after entering the army he was appointed post surgeon, and a little later was made brigade surgeon of Louman’s brigade in General Wallace’s  division. His brigade was in the thickest of the fight during the battles of Forts Henry and Donelson, and nowhere was greater courage displayed than in the conduct of Dr. Witter, although he had arisen from a sick bed to take part in the engagements. He was on duty day and night for a period of four days, during which time he had no rest, and becoming completely exhausted he was sent home on furlough, where he died ten days later, on the 13^th of March, 1862. After her husband’s death Mrs. Witter took charge of and managed the farm of eighty acres, and paid off the mortgage thereon. In her efforts to provide for her family she displayed a heroism equaled by few. She was a well-read woman, who was not only familiar with the best literature, but was also well posted on agricultural topics, and met with success in the operation of her farm, to which she added seventy-two acres. She also sent her children to college, and was entirely devoted to her family. She died May 30, 1893, mourned by all who knew her as a lady of many noble traits of character who endeared herself to those with whom she came in contact.

During his residence in this state, Dr. Witter became prominently identified with political affairs, and in 1851 was elected to the legislature while a resident of Tipton. Four years later he was chosen to represent Scott county in the general assembly, and during that term he presented a bill for the suppression of the liquor traffic, as he had also done in the previous session. In 1860 he was elected to represent Linn county, and served two extra sessions besides the three regular sessions. He was a natural orator and stumped the county, district and state on various causes which he represented. He was a strong abolitionist and a temperance man who labored earnestly for the principles which he believed would aid the cause of justice and right. He was also greatly interested in educational matters, and gave his support to any enterprise calculated to advance the moral, intellectual or material welfare of his community. For a time he served as trustee of the State University at Iowa City. The character of Dr. Witter presented the happy combination of great refinement of mind and the practical adaptation of the qualities which enabled him to carry on his life pursuits with dignity and honor and at the same time made him financially successful and a favorite with the common people. He was a model man, who was ever willing to lend a helping hand to those in need or distress, and will be affectionately remembered in the community long after those who knew him most intimately have passed away. In religious belief he was a member of the Methodist church.

Source: The Biographical Record of Linn County Iowa, Illustrated, Chicago: The S. J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1901, pages  852-8.

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JAMES W. WOLMUTT

James W. Wolmutt, who devotes his time and energies to the operation of a fine farm of one hundred and sixty-one acres in Buffalo township, has spent his entire life within the borders of Linn county, his birth having here occurred on the 4th of February, 1867. His parents, James and Mary (Benish) Wolmutt, were both natives of Bohemia and emigrated to the United States in 1853, locating in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. They worked out until their marriage, which was celebrated in 1865, and then located upon a tract of rented land in this county, the father operating the same until 1881.  In that year he purchased a farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Buffalo township and gave his attention to its cultivation and improvement until he passed away in 1885. His widow and children operated the place until 1905, since which time Mrs. Wolmutt has lived retired on the old homestead with her youngest daughter. She is well known and highly esteemed throughout the county which has remained her home for more than a half century.

James W. Wolmutt, who was one of a family of ten children, remained under the parental roof until he had attained his majority and then started out in life on his own account, operating rented land for ten years. On the expiration of that period he bought a tract of sixty-three acres in Buffalo township and at the end of two years traded the property for a farm of one hundred and twenty acres in the same township. He has since extended the boundaries of the place to include one hundred and sixty-one acres, constituting one of the attractive and finely improved farms of Buffalo township. The well tilled fields annually yield golden harvests in return for the care and labor which is bestowed upon them by the owner.

On the 9th of December, 1897, Mr. Wolmutt was united in marriage to Miss Gertrude Reed, a daughter of Levi and Martha (Williams) Reed, both of whom were natives of New York. On leaving the Empire state the father took up his abode in Il