JOHN OWENS.

Pg 414

         From the little rock-ribbed country of Wales came a goodly-portion of Louisa county’s substantial and respected citizens who found in the new world opportunities for advancement in business lines denied them in their native land. This number includes John Owens, now deceased, who for a number of years was identified with the industrial and agricultural pursuits of this county. He was born in the north of Wales, a son of Owen Owens, and ere leaving his native country learned the art of cabinet-making. Attracted by the rumors which he heard concerning the advantages offered on this side of the Atlantic, when but eighteen years of age he decided to seek a fortune in the United States, and accordingly made the long journey to New York, locating first at Utica, that state, where he engaged for a time at his trade. In 1860 he made his way to Louisa county, Iowa, taking up his abode in Columbus City, and here worked at cabinet-making for some time. He was an expert workman and it was not long ere he was accorded a large patronage. Later, however, deciding to enter agricultural pursuits, he purchased a farm belong to Judge Springer and upon that place passed his remaining days. He was the owner of a good property consisting of one hundred and sixty acres, located on section 31, Columbus City township, which is still in possession of the family.

         Mr. Owens was married ere leaving New York, in 1852, to Miss Jane A. Williams, who was born in south Wales and came to America in 1842. Unto them were born three children, namely: Ellen N., now deceased; Mrs. Harriet B. Schock, of Columbus City, Iowa; and R. E., now operating the old homestead. Mr. Owens passed away in 1897, and his remains were laid to rest in the cemetery at Columbus City. Although more than a decade has come and gone since he passed from active life, he is still remembered by many of the residents of Columbus City township as a man of many sterling traits of character, who lived his life to good purpose and enjoyed the esteem and regard of his fellowmen. His widow still survives, and at a ripe old age upon the homestead with her son.

Pg 415

         R. E. Owens has placed many improvements on the home place, which is now one of the valuable and desirable properties of the locality, and in connection with his general farming makes a specialty of raising and breeding full blooded Percheron horses, having many fine animals in his stable. He is known throughout the country for the high grade of his stock and is numbered among the prosperous and progressive business men of the community. Fraternally he is connected with the Odd Fellow Lodge, No. 246, at Columbus City, and also with the Rebekahs at Columbus Junction, of which he is captain of the team. He gives his political support to the republican party and is now serving as township trustee, in which position he is casting the weight of his influence on the side of progress, advancement and improvement. He is loyal and public-spirited in his citizenship and possesses these qualities which speak for honorable and upright manhood.