Pg 571

         ELIJAH BIRD, a farmer residing on section 34, Wapello Township, was born in Washington County, Pa., Oct. 21, 1814, and is a son of John and Catherine Bird, who were of English origin. He is descended from good old Revolutionary stock, his grandfather having served in the War for Independence. Mr. Bird learned the trade of stonemason with his father, at which he has worked at intervals throughout his entire life. He also engaged in teaching during the winter for twelve years, in which he was quite successful. He first came to Louisa County in 1865, locating upon the farm which still continues to be his home. His first purchase of land consisted of 100 acres, but from time to time he has added to this until he now has 300 acres, comprising one of the best farms in the county.

On the 14th of May, 1840, Mr. Bird was united in marriage with Agnes McGregor, who was born in Beaver County, Pa., Jan. 29, 1819, and is a daughter of Donald and Mary (Bennett) McGregor. Her father was of Scotch descent, while her mother was of Irish parentage, and they reared a family of eight children, all of whom grew to manhood, and are . . .

Pg 572

. . . married. To Mr. and Mrs. Bird have been born nine children, and, with the exception of one, all are living: Phineas, who married Miss Mary Graham, of Wapello; Corydon, who became the husband of Sarah McMichael, also of Wapello; Elisha; Atlas, who wedded Mary Ryan, of Grand View; Zenista, who married Lewis Clark, of Wapello, was educated in the common schools of Warren County, Pa., and Mercer County, Ill., and subsequently taught several terms in the district schools of this county; Laura became the wife of Cavil McDaniel, a resident of Wapello; Flora, who wedded John McDaniel, also of Wapello; and Oscar, who is at home.

For over fifty years both Mr. and Mrs. Bird have been members of the Presbyterian Church, in which he serves as Elder. He has held the office of Township Trustee for eight or nine years. He was at the organization of the Republican party in New Castle, Pa., and has since been one of its earnest supporters. His home is situated near the city of Wapello, and he has many warm friends in the community where he resides.