LEWIS EDWARDS.

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         Lewis Edwards is an enterprising resident of Louisa county, whom the foreign lands have furnished to this district. He now owns a well improved farm of one hundred and sixty acres, located in Columbus City township, his entire time being devoted to its cultivation. He was born in Wales in April, 1848, a son of Row- . . .

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. . . land and Catharine Edwards, who were likewise natives of Wales and there spent their entire lives. They had a family of eight children, seven of whom still survive.

         Lewis Edwards had no education advantages whatever, never attending school a day in his life. He has in later years, however, through experience and close observation, gained a fair knowledge, so that he is able to successfully carry on business affairs. When nineteen years of age, foreseeing no future for him in his native land and having heard favorable reports concerning the advantages and opportunities to be enjoyed in the new world, he decided to leave home and accordingly set sail for the United States. Upon reaching American shores, he made his way direct to Louisa county and here obtained work as a farm hand by the month. He was thus employed for several years, during which time he carefully saved his earnings, and eventually, in 1887, he had a sum of money sufficient to purchase the farm on which he has since resided. This farm comprises one hundred and sixty acres, and is located on section 3, Columbus City township. On this place he has made many improvements and his fields have been placed under a high state of cultivation, so that he annually gathers rich harvests. He carries on general farming to some extent, but makes a specialty of raising and feeding stock, and this branch of business adds not a little to his annual income.

         Mr. Edwards chose as a companion and helpmate for the journey of life Miss Hannah Davis, who was likewise a native of Wales. She died February 15, 1901, her remains being interred in the Cambrain cemetery. Besides the husband, four children survive: James L. and Evan L., both at home; Catherine Ann, the wife of E. S. May, of Columbus Junction; and John L.

         Mr. Edwards’ study of political issues and questions of the day has led him to give stalwart support to the republican party, although he has never sought nor held office himself. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, to which his wife also belonged. His success in life is notable. Coming to the new world without education or capital, he adapted himself to circumstances and to the customs of the people in this country and took advantage of the opportunities that presented, so that today he stands among the enterprising and prosperous farmers of his section of Louisa county.