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         JOSEPH L. ALLEN, a merchant of Columbus Junction, successor to W. P. Paugh, dealer in general merchandise, was born in Louisa County on the 13th August, 1862, and is a son of William M. and Mary (Cogl) Allen. His parents were natives of Ireland, born in County Armagh, and emigrated to America in 1847, spending one year in New York, after which they came to Iowa, settling in Columbus City, where they still reside. Our subject was educated in the city schools, and in 1881 began his business career as a clerk for Utt. McConnell & Co., merchants of Columbus City, continuing with that house for five years. At the end of that time he engaged in the same capacity with W. P. Paugh, of Columbus Junction, buying out his employer in July, 1887, since which that time he has carried on the business at that place. . . .

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. . . He carries a well-selected stock of general merchandise, of which dry-goods and notions are the leading features. It averages $5,000 in value, and is selected with care and a view to meet the wants of his customers. Mr. Allen enjoys a fine trade, and although comparatively new in business, his long service as salesman in this line among the people of Louisa County has given him the advantage of an extensive acquaintance and a knowledge of the individual wants.

On the 14th of July, 1887, in Elm Grove Township, Louisa County, Mr. Allen was united in marriage with Miss Lina Bemis, a daughter of S. L. Bemis, who is a prominent farmer and an early settler of Elm Grove Township. Mrs. Allen was born and reared in this locality, and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. One child graces their union, William E., born March 15, 1888.

In his political views Mr. Allen is a Republican, and socially, is a member of the Knights of Pythias, belonging to Liberty Lodge No. 22, of Columbus Junction. He is an energetic, practical business man, one who enjoys the confidence and respect of a wide circle of acquaintances.