GRIFFITH JONES.

Pg 164

         The possibilities that are available in America under the favoring influences of the great republic are clearly illustrated in the record of Griffith Jones, a well known farmer of Columbus City township, who began as an orphan but is now one of the most prosperous citizens in this part of the county. He is a native of Wales, where he was born January 5, 1865, a son of Richard and Anna (Jones) Jones. The father emigrated to America with his family in 1868 and . . .

Pg 165

. . . settled upon a farm in Des Moines county, Iowa. He died in 1873 and his wife in June, 1899. There were six children in their family, one of whom died in infancy, the others being: Griffith, of this review; Owen, who is now living in Wyoming; and Jane, Robert and Anna, all of whom are deceased.

         Griffith Jones was brought by his parents to the United States at the age of three years and at nine years of age arrived in Louisa county, Iowa, with his mother. He was reared in the family of a kind-hearted cousin, Hugh O. Jones and continued with his benefactor until he was twenty-four years of age. In the meantime he had secured advantages of education in the common schools and had also become well acquainted with the details pertaining to the various branches of farming. He began his business career by renting two hundred acres and he cultivated this land to such good advantage that two years later he was enabled to purchase one hundred acres in Columbus City township, to which he has from time to time made additions until he is now the owner of two hundred and ten acres. He engages in general farming and stock-raising and, being capable in business, he generally carries forward to a successful completion whatever he undertakes. He has given very close attention to his work and is rewarded with a handsome competence.

         On the 22d of December, 1892, Mr. Jones was married to Miss Jennie A. Richard, a daughter of David and Sarah (Owens) Richard, both of whom were born in Wales. The father died March 20, 1892, but the mother is now living with the subject of this review. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Jones: David R., who was born September 10, 1893; Laura Jane, born February 10, 1895; and John G., born July 13, 1899.

         Politically Mr. Jones is a stanch adherent of the republican party. He has never aspired to public office but has served as school director. He is a firm believer in the inspiration of the Bible and is a consistent member of the Congregational church. He has set a good example of industry and perseverance, never allowing himself to become discouraged by difficulties and always adhering to what he considers just and right. He inherited many sturdy qualities from worthy ancestry and is endeavoring, with the assistance of his estimable wife, to rear his children to become honorable and useful members of society. He fully deserves the respect in which he is held by his neighbors and friends and by all who have the pleasure of his acquaintance.