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         D. P. VAN HORN, a leading farmer of Columbus City Township, residing on section 19, was born in Miami County, Ohio, in 1842, and is a son of John and Jane (Mathers) Van Horn. His father was born in Bucks County, Pa., of German descent, while his mother was a native of Ohio, born of Scotch-Irish parentage. Until fifteen years of age John Van Horn remained in his native State, but at that age removed with his parents to Miami County, Ohio, where he was subsequently united in marriage with Jane Mathers. They continued to reside in Miami County until 1858, when they removed to Mason County, Ill. Although a stonemason by trade Mr. Van Horn engaged in farming, and in Mason county owned a farm of 1, 100 acres, of which he had the entire control. He possessed good business ability, and farming was to him a successful occupation. A man of influence, he was held in high esteem in the community where he lived. For a number of years previous to his death, which occurred June 27, 1886, at the age of sixty-nine years, he was President of the First National Bank of Mason County. The mother is still living, and resides in Mason City, Ill.

Our subject was reared upon a farm and received his education in the common schools. Remaining under the parental roof until the age of twenty, he then enlisted, July 18, 1862, in the War for the Union, becoming a member of Company K, 85th Illinois Infantry. For three years he served in defense of the stars and stripes, participating in the battles of Chickamauga, Stone River, the entire Atlanta campaign, the celebrated march to the sea and the battle of Bentonville.

After receiving his discharge Mr. Van Horn returned to his home in Mason County, where he remained until 1868, when he came to Louisa County, Iowa, locating on section 19, Columbus City Township, where he owns a farm of 350 acres, comprising part of the finest farming land in the district. He has it under a fine state of cultivation, and also owns 100 acres in Illinois. On the 23d of January, 1869, he was united in marriage with Sadie Bailey, who was born in Vermont, and is a daughter of Col. J. P. and Mary A. (Hall) Bailey, of Ainsworth, Iowa, both of whom are natives of the Green Mountain State. By their union two children have been born, a daughter and son—Effie and Frank. Mrs. Van Horn is a member of the United Presbyterian Church, and a most estimable lady. In his political views he is a Republican, and one of the stalwart supporters of the principles of that party. In connection with his farming interests Mr. Van Horn also engages quite extensively in stock-raising. He ranks among the best citizens in Louisa County, and as a neighbor and friend has won the confidence and good-will of the people of the community.