FRED ALBURN.

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         A native of Columbus City where he has spent his entire life, Fred Alburn was born March 9, 1875. He is a son of Henry N. and Elizabeth D. (Waugh) Alburn, the former of whom was born at York, Pennsylvania, and the latter in Ohio. The father came to Iowa with his family in 1854 and took up his residence at Columbus City. He was a stonemason and engaged at his trade for many years but was attracted to farming in this county, which he followed only a short time, as it did not prove a financial success. He accordingly sold his farm and bought a large lot in Columbus City where he built a comfortable two-story house for himself and family. He died November 12, 1906. Mr. and Mrs. Alburn were the parents of four children: Edward and Charles, both of whom are deceased; Monta, at home; and Fred, of this review.

         After receiving his preliminary education in the public schools Fred Alburn began learning the mason’s trade under his father. He applied himself with such diligence that he became a first-class stonemason and performed his work so well that his services are in constant demand, there being more calls for his time and labor than he is able to respond to. He has assisted in the construction of many of the most substantial buildings in Columbus City and vicinity and his advice is often sought by persons contemplating the erection of residences or business houses. He has gradually turned his attention to concrete work, in which he is an acknowledged expert.

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         Politically Mr. Alburn is a stanch supporter of the republican party. He has never sought the honors of public office as his interest is centered on his work and he has gained deserved prominence as a first class mason. Although unmarried he is not without family responsibility as he is the head of a household of which his mother and sister are members. The former has now reached the age of seventy-three years. Mrs. Alburn holds membership in the Congregational church, but her son is an attendant of the United Brethren church. By a life of well applied industry he has won the confidence and friendship of many of the best citizens of his native town and has also gained a position of comparative financial independence.