SAMUEL DOTSON.

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         Samuel Dotson, an enterprising and progressive business man of Wapello, is numbered among Louisa county’s native sons, his birth here having occurred on the 25th of March, 1858. His parents, David and Mary (Jackman) Dotson, were born and reared in Pennsylvania, but resided for many years in Louisa county. They are now deceased, the father passing away at the age of eighty-one years and the mother when seventy-nine years old. In their family were eight children, as follows: John, now deceased; Basil, of Nebraska; William, who has likewise passed way; O. Ella, who married Lafe Packwood, of Nebraska; Nancy Jane, deceased; Samuel, of this review; Hattie K., at home; and George W., a resident of Wapello township.

         Samuel Dotson was reared to farm life, acquiring his education in the country schools, and remained with his parents until after attaining his majority, assisting in the work of the fields and thereby gaining a thorough and practical knowledge of agriculture. When twenty-two years old he took up the carpenter’s trade and since that time has divided his attention between that occupation and general agricultural pursuits. His home is located on a tract of fourteen acres, all of which is under cultivation and upon which he raises good crops, and he is also interested in Texas land, being the owner of ten lots in that state. In his trade he is proving himself capable and efficient, doing all kinds of general . . .

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. . . carpentering work, and in the conduct of both branches of his business he is meeting with gratifying results.

         Mr. Dotson was married, on the 3d of February, 1909, to Mrs. Nellie E. (Brady) Allen, of Louisa county, who by her former marriage has two children, Roy and Samuel G., the latter four years old. By her marriage to Mr. Dotson she has become the mother of a daughter, Mary Evelena, one and a half years old. The religious faith of Mr. Dotson is indicated by his membership in the Methodist church, and he also is a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He gives his political support to the republican party and has held several minor township offices, including that of trustee, the duties of which he has ever performed in a most faithful, efficient manner. His life has been one of well directed activity and intelligent effort, resulting in the attainment of a fair measure of success, and wherever he is known he is honored by reason of his genuine worth and high personal character.