Page County, Iowa History 1880 Biographicals
(transcribed by Pat O'Dell: genpat@netins.net)
 
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[page 704] Thompson, M., section 19, P.O. Coin; born in McMeno county, Tennessee, July 2, 1835. Raised on a farm with his parents till nineteen years of age, when he came to McDonough county, Illinois, and was engaged there for four years in farming. He then removed to Hancock county, Illinois, remaining there for twelve years, engaged in farming. He then removed to Page county, Iowa, and purchased a one-fourth section in section 19, which he has now well improved. He was married to Miss R.A. Byler, of Illinois, December 25, 1863, who died September 24, 1879. Has a family of five children, all at home: H.M., W.J., S.M., W.B. and L.B.
 
[page 704] Whitmore, H., section 28, P.O. Coin; born April 6, 1821, in Morgan county, Ohio. When five years old he came with his parents to Mercer county, Illinois. When nine years old his parents moved to Henry county, and remained in that county until 1870. Was married May 8, 1856, to Augusta A. Rice, of Indiana. In 1870 purchased a farm on section 28, Lincoln township. Here he has made his home since his advent to Page. Has a good farm, suitable for either grain or stock, and exceptionally fitted for the latter. Have eight children: James F., Geo., Alva, Forest, June, Marion, Luely and Minnie.
 
[page 705] Bloom, John, farmer, P.O. Shenandoah; born March 16, 1840, in Germany, and for twelve years remained in that country, when his parents emigrated to the United States. They located at Davenport, Iowa, in 1852, and remained there three years; then moved to Mercer county, Illinois. He enlisted in company E, First Illinois light artillery. Participated in the battles of Pittsburg Landing, Shiloh, Jackson, siege of Vicksburg, siege of Jackson, and seven days at Pontotoc. In 1864 went to Jefferson City, Missouri, and aided in driving General Price from western Missouri; was then ordered back to St Louis, November 15, 1864, and February, 1865, was discharged at Nashville, Tennessee. In 1867 he was married to Miss Catharine Klotz. She was born in May, 1848. In the year 1874 they came to their present location in Morton township. Have seven children: Charles, Franklin, George, Delia S., Edward, Louis and Minnie.
 
[page 705] Beam, Isaiah, farmer, born September 4, 1826, in Jackson county, Ohio. At the age of twenty-one years he went to Canton, Illinois. In the year 1839 he moved to Mt Pleasant, Iowa, where he resided for twenty-five years. Then moved to Wayne county, Iowa, and remained there one year. In March, 1865, he moved to Manti, Fremont county, Iowa, and in November of the same year moved to his present residence in Morton township. Was married to Miss Kate Temple, January 13, 1856. They have seven children: Cora D., Laura, George, Bessie, DeWitt, Harry and Ethel. Have lost three: Baxter, Edgar and Ernest. Mr Beam has held office in his township ever since its organization.
 
[page 707] Laughlin, J.D., farmer; born October 13, 1847, in Pike county, Ohio. In the year 1864 he enlisted in company G, ninety-first regiment of Ohio volunteer infantry, participating in the battles of Newburg, Lynchburg, Cowpasture Gap, Stevenson Station, near Winchester; Cedar Creek and many other skirmishes in that vicinity. In June, 1866, he was dis-[page 708]charged from the service and returned to his home in Ohio. He then went to learn the carpenter trade as an apprentice for three years. After finishing his trade he went to Champaign county, Illinois. At the expiration of two years he returned to Ohio and attended a normal school at Lebanon, and then returned to Illinois. In November, 1874, he was married to Miss Jennie Houser. In 1876, he came to his present location in Morton township, Page county.
 
[page 709] Reimers, John, farmer and stock dealer, P.O. Coin; born September 24, 1845, in Milster, Prussia. Lived with his parents until he was twenty years old, working upon the farm. In the year 1866 he immigrated to the United States, coming to Davenport, Iowa, the same year. In 1867 he went to Montana, by way of St Louis and the Missouri River. Remained there one year, dealing in stock. Came to Iowa, and located in Page county, where he found his ideal home in Morton township. He returned to his mother country in December, 1868, and was married to Miss Elenora Cornels, February 12, 1869. Mr Reimers and his wife immediately returned to the United States, and to Iowa, and located in Morton township, where he opened up his magnificent farm of 880 acres. They have five children: John W.C., Theodore, Oscar, Anna and Terry. His farm is all under cultivation, and has an orchard of about 400 trees of the best varieties of fruit. Gives his attention principally to raising and feeding stock, and has, at the present time, about 700 head of cattle.
 
[page 711] Morton Twp - Walrod, Clinton, farmer; born August 27, 1858 , near Maquoketa , Iowa . Moved to Clinton county, residing in that place for ten years, then moving to Page county, Iowa , and settled in Morton township, where he now lives. On the 7 th of September, 1878 , was married to Miss Olive Brown
 
  [page 712] Crow, A.T., P.O. Clarinda; farmer and school teacher, section 22. He has a farm of 55 acres in good cultivation. He was born November 15, 1846, in Jay county, Indiana, and lived there until 1872, when he came to this county, and then went to Nebraska and remained there about two years, and then came back to Page county, where he now lives. He was married to Miss M.J. McMichael, of Page county, November 22, 1876. They are the parents of two children: John T. and Reuben G. Mr Crow has taught fourteen terms of school in this county, and has given the best of satisfaction. As an instructor and educator he was generally liked by all of his students both as a teacher and a man, in and out of school. Mr Crow enlisted in the war August 22, 1863, in company E, seventh Indiana cavalry, and remained until the close of the war, when he was honorably discharged August 29, 1865.
 
[page 712] Farrens, M.W., farmer, section 3; born in Page county, Iowa, March 3, 1848. Was married to Miss Mary O. Thompson, December 28, 1871, by whom he has five children, four living: Harry, Ona, Allie B. and Erastus. Mr Farrens is a son of H.D. Farrens, one of the oldest and first settlers in Page county. He owns a farm of 142 acres. He began life at eight years of age, having then done some of the heaviest manual work on the farm--that of breaking prairie.
 
[page 713] Harrison Hall, farmer, section 22, P.O. Clarinda; born April 1, 1836, in the state of Michigan. Two years later he went with his parents to Henry county, Iowa, remaining until August, 1870, when he came to Page county, settling on his present farm. Was married in January, 1865, to Miss Isabell McKinnan, of Henry county, Iowa. They are the parents of five children: Thomas, Frank, James, Charles and Carrie. Owns fifty-five acres of land, well improved, and with a fine young orchard.
 
[page 713] McCain, S.E., farmer, section 9; born in Clarion county, Pennsylvania, in the year 1812, in which county he resided until 1868, when he came to Page county, Iowa. Was married January 11, 1837, to Miss Nancy Cooper. This wife dying, he married Mrs Louisa Dougherty, October 18, 1868. He is the father of six children--four by his first wife, and two by the present Mrs McCain: Elizabeth C., A.H., Thomas C., James N., Mary A. and Samuel P., all, save the two last named being residents of Pennsylvania.
 
[page 713] McAlpin, S.E., farmer, section 13, P.O. Hawleyville; born January 23, 1831, in Johnson county, Indiana. Came to Page county in 1854, entering the farm he now owns. Married Miss Sarah A. East, a native of Indiana, January 4, 1856. They are the parents of eight children, six of whom are living: Phoebe, A.W., Thomas A., Minnie M., Ida M. and Russell E. Mr McAlpin owns a well-improved farm of 120 acres, well watered and timbered, with commodious out-buildings and a pleasant residence.
 
[page 713] Oates, C.H., farmer, section 12, P.O. Hawleyville; born November 5, 1855, in Highland county, Ohio, where he lived with his parents until September, 1868, when he came to this county. Was married October 4, 1877, to Miss Sadie A. McVey. He then moved to the town of Hepburn, and lived there about two years, and then moved to where he now resides.
 
[page 716] Annan, John, farmer, section 29, P.O. Clarinda; born February 22, 1839, in Hamilton county, Ohio. While he was still a child his parents moved to Jackson county, Indiana. In the spring of 1855 he came to Page county, growing to manhood and receiving his education in the common school. Mrried December, 1862, to Miss Annie Myers, a native of Bartholomew county, Indiana. They have four children, all boys: Lewis, Henry, George and William. Mr. A. owns 757 acres of land.
 
[page 716] Burwell, Joseph, farmer, section 22, P.O. Clarinda; born in Crawford county, Ohio, August 19, 1834. Lived there until the spring of 1866, when he moved to Linn county, Iowa. Lived there one year, and then came to Page county in the spring of 1867, and has lived in this county ever since. Has always been a farmer. He was married to Miss Sarah Eby, December 4, 1856. They are the parents of eight children, all living: The oldest, a son, William A., now married to Miss Ellen Heniger, and living in this county; Ida R., (now Mrs Andrew J. Heniger, of this county); Elmer M., Emma May, Carrie E., Wesley L., John Orlando and Clarence A. The last six are now living at home. Owns 80 acres of land, all well improved.
 
[page 717] Cree, Robert, farmer, section 1, P.O. Clarinda; born in Warren county, Ohio, February 28, 1826. Lived in that county until 1859; went thence to Henry county, Illinois, and moved to Page county in the spring of 1867, purchasing and improving 141 acres of excellent farming land. Mr Cree was married to Miss Mary E. Piper, of Franlin county, Pennsylvania, February 20, 1862. They are the parents of five children, three of whom are living: Anna May, Robert D., and Olepha E. Mr Cree is deeply interested in the common schools of his township, and is at present one of the board of directors. His worth as a man and bearing as a gentleman have won for him the unlimited confidence of his fellows.
 
[page 717] Edmonds, A., farmer, section 20, P.O. Clarinda; born in Clermont county, Ohio, April 12, 1830. At the age of ten years he went with his parents to Clay county, Indiana, where he grew to manhood. Came to Page county in 1856. Was married in September of the same year, to Miss P.F. Sampson, a native of Virginia. They have four children: Seth W., Amanda, Almira and Charlie. He now owns a farm of 193 acres, accumulated from nothing when he came to this county.
 
[page 718] Edmonds, Thos A., farmer, section 21, P.O. Clarinda; born October 30, 1838, in Ohio. Came to Page county when eighteen years of age. He grew to manhood a farmer, receiving his education in the common schools. When thirty years of age he was married to Miss Sarah J. Wallace. They have four children: Florence M., Joy B., Effie B. and Della. Owns 160 acres of land, all under cultivation.
 
[page 720] Owen, E., farmer, section 8, P.O. Clarinda; born in Brown county, Ohio, April 2, 1817, in which county he married, and followed the business of farming until 1855; he then removed his family to Madison county, Indiana, living there until 1861. The following four years were spent in Bureau county, Illinois, or until the fall of 1865, when he came to this county. In his twenty-second year Mr Owen was married to Miss Margaret Landon, of Kentucky. Mrs Owen died in 1863, leaving a family of twelve children. He again married, this time to Miss C. Hosie, in 1864, his seond wife being a native of Rush county, Indiana. He is the father of ten children by his second wife. Of the entire family eleven are now living, all residents of this county: George W., America, James R., Sarah Ann, Nehemiah, Sherman, Idella, Alice Belle, Peter and Clyde.
 
[page 720] Owen, G.W., farmer, section 12, P.O. Clarinda; born in Brown county, Ohio, July 22, 1843. In 1855 went to Madison county, Indiana, in the fall of 1865 came to Page county, of which he has since been an esteemed citizen. Enlisted July 22, 1862, in company G, Seventy-fifth Indiana infantry; mustered out January 22, 1865. Was engaged in many of the severest battles of the war, and participated in Sherman's memorable march to the sea. He was married on September 22, 1867, to Miss Mary A. Edmond, of Brown county, Ohio. Their's has been a life of wedded bliss; five children have been born to them, of whom four are now living: Thomas G., James M., Harvey and Ida May. For fifteen years Mr. Owen has been an honored citizen of this township, and has been an active worker in all projects calculated to promote the interests of his community.
 
[page 720] Owen, J.R., farmer, section 12, P.O. Clarinda; born in Brown county, Ohio, December 10, 1845; in 1855 moved with his parents to Madison county, Indiana, living in that county until 1863, when his parents moved to Bureau county, Illinois, and two years later came to Page county, Iowa. In the spring of 1865 he enlisted "for one year or during the war" in company A, One Hundred and Forty-eighth Illinois infantry; was mustered out in the fall of the same year. Mr Owen was married to Miss Mary Welch, on the 14th of March, 1866, and the second time to Miss Febia M. Hosier, of Madison county, Indiana, on March 14, 1872. Mr Owen is the father of four children: Olive, Perry W., James M. and Eugene. On his farm is one of the most approved sorghum manufacto[page 721]ries in the county. As a man and neighbor, as well as in his business relations, Mr Owen stands among the first in his township.
 
[page 721] Pfander, Jacob, farmer, section 27, P.O. Clarinda; born in Ohio, December 28, 1845. Moved to Page county, Iowa, in the fall of 1853, and has lived here ever since, engaged in farming. Was married to Miss Ida Ruchel, a native of Wisconsin, on the 9th of September, 1874. They are the parents of three children: Minnie May, Charles and William. He owns seventy-six acres of land, well improved and in a good state of cultivation.
[page 721] Pfander, John, farmer, section 36, P.O. Clarinda; born in Miami county, Ohio, October 25, 1835. Moved at the age of eighteen years to Page county, Iowa, in the fall of 1853. Was married to Miss Elenore Loy, a native of Dark county, Ohio, April 21, 1859. Are the parents of two children: William E. and Martha M. He came to this county with nothing, and has built himself up to his present standing.
 
[page 722] Alexander, Wm. M., county auditor; born October 18, 1837, in Lawrence county, Pennsylvania, where he received a common school education. In 1855 he came to Iowa with his parents and located in Jackson county. In 1860 he returned to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and took a regular course in Duff's commercial college, where he graduated the same year. He then returned west and located in Harrison county, this state, where he engaged in teaching. In 1861 he came to this place and enlisted in company F, First Nebraska infantry, and served two and a half years, when they were equipped as a cavalry regiment. In 1863 the regiment was veteranized, and served until the close of the war. He was discharged July 1, 1865. He enlisted as a private, and was promoted to fifth sergeant, then to first sergeant, and afterward to first lieutenant, in November, 1865, and was detailed as post-adjutant at Omaha, which position he held to the close of the war. He was in the battles of Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Cape Girardeau, Village Creek, and all the skirmishes and engagements in which his regiment participated. He received a slight wound in the left arm at Fort Donelson. The next day after his discharge from the service he went into the house of O.P. Hurbert & Bro., of Omaha, as bookkeeper, with whom he remained a few months, and then returned to Clarinda and clerked in Mr Burrows' dry goods house. He was afterward bookkeeper for the woolen factory, then bookkepper for the Page County bank, where he remained until 1869. In the fall of 1868 he was elected to the office of auditor, the first ever elected in the county, which position he has ever since occupied. He has been frequently re-elected without opppostion, and has the state-wide reputation of being one of the very best county auditors in the state. His efficiency is only surpassed by his obligating and genial disposition, and to show the esteem in which he is held by the citizens of the county, it is only necessary to say that when before the people for their suffrage his majority is usually the largest on the ticket. [page 723] He was united in marriage July 22, 1867, to Miss Flora A. Enam, a native of Springfield, Ohio. They have five children: William C., James S., Hadley A., Lillian and Frank B.
 

[page 723] Berry, W.B., P.O. Clarinda; born April 5, 1827, in the state of Virginia. His parents moved in the fall of that year to Madison county, Ohio, where he received a common school education. He came to Iowa in 1849, settling in Des Moines county. In the spring of 1850 he went overland to California, with ox teams, leaving Burlington, March 5, landing in Ringgold, California, August 10 following, being five months on the road. He at once went to mining and followed that until the spring of 1854, when he returned to the states by water, via New York. On his return he settled in Lewis county, and engaged in the dry goods business at Columbus City, until 1868, when he came to Clarinda and embarked in the hardware business with William Rimer. This firm continued in business until 1873, when they sold out their stock in trade to McDonald Bros. They immediately bought their present site and built the fine store room he now occupies, and put in a general stock of dry goods. The firm continued until February, 1880, when he bought out his partner's entire interest in the business. He has made all his estate by his own efforts, and a strict attention to business. His stock is one of the largest in town. He was married June 22, 1859, to Miss Elmira Bennett, a native of Ohio. They have a family of seven children: Anna I., Mary E., Arthur L., Charles L., William D., Sallie E., Leonidas V., all living.

[note: from Jo Dean James jdjok@ptsi.net - The son of William B. Berry, William, is shown on family records and census records as William B. as well, not as William D.  He eventually ended up in Texhoma, Texas County, OK and adjoining Sherman County Texas.  Thought you might like to know.] Thank you!
 
[page 725] Burk, L., drugs and medicines, P.O. Clarinda; born October 6, 1818, in Franklin county, Pennsylvania. When he was eight years of age his parents moved to Jefferson county, Ohio. There he grew to manhood on a farm, and was educated in the common schools. When twenty-six years of age he moved to Tuscarawas county, Ohio, following farming for eight years, when he moved to Jay county, Indiana, remaining there nineteen years. He then came to Iowa, locating in Clarinda. In 1878 he purchased his interest in his present business. He was married November 25, 1842, to Miss Eliza Williams, a native of Ohio, by whom he had nine children, three deceased: T.W., M.E., N.J., S.A., W.A. and A.M.
 
[page 730] Damewood, F.A., deputy sheriff of Page county, P.O. Clarinda; born August 17, 1845, in Knox county, Tennessee. At the age of two years his parents moved to DuBois county, Indiana. In 1857 he removed with his parents to Iowa and located in Taylor county. Two years later they moved to this county, locating in Nebraska township. Here young Damewood grew to manhood and was educated in the common schools of the county. He enlisted August 27, 1865. He was in all the engagements in which his regiment participated. After his discharge he attended school about two years at Hawleyville, then taught school in winter and farmed in the summer for about ten years. He was appointed deputy sheriff in 1876, under his father, Isaac Damewood. He was reappointed by Mr Johnson, who succeeded his father. His long continuance in the office is a sufficient index as to his ability. As a business man he is competent and energetic. He was married July 11, 1867 to Miss Eliza A. Thompson, a native of Indiana. By this union they have had three children: Charles E., Emmert E., living, and one deceased.
 
[page 731] Evans, T., tinner, P.O. Clarinda; born July 2, 1826, in Pennyslvania. In 1833 his parents moved to Defiance county, Ohio, where he lived until 1840. In 1840 he went to Circleville, Ohio, and six years after, went to Springfield, remaining until 1850. He then went to Urbana, and in 1853 to Union City, Indiana, where he lived until December, 1856. Came to Iowa in 1856, locating at Mount Pleasant. In 1859 went to Missouri, and in 1860 came to Clarinda where he has since resided. Mr Evans has held several important offices of trust, both in Indiana and Iowa. Since coming to Clarinda he has been postmaster at Clarinda, from 1861 to 1866, when he was succeeded by Antony Loranz. In 1873 he was elected township clerk, and holds the office still. He is coroner of Page county, having been elected to that position and retained it since 1877. Was township treasurer in 1878. In 1879 was elected mayor of Clarinda, and re-elected in 1880. Mr Evans has been twice married, first to Miss Mary A. Cornwall, a native of Ohio, who died in 1854, leaving three children: Flora A. (wife of W.M. Alexander), Emma B. (wife of F.A. McDonald,) and one deceased. He was again married May 30, 1855, to Miss Martha E. McChandliss, by whom he has seven children, six living: Mary, (wife of A.C. McGuire), James B., Charles S., Martha E., Andrew and William T.
 
[page 731] Enfield, M., physician and surgeon, P.O. Clarinda; born March 9, 1845, in Wisconsin. There he grew to manhood subject to all the vicissitudes of a farm boy, receiving his education in the common school, in Evansville Seminary, and at Lawrence University--all in his native state. Until 1869 he followed farming and teaching. In that year he began the study of medicine with Dr R. Broughton, of Broadhead, Wisconsin. He graduated from Rush Medical College, Chicago, Illinois, in February, 1873. He then came to Clarinda, and began the practice of his profession, which he has continued since. He enjoys a most liberal share of public confidence and patronage. Married February 28, 1874, to Miss Lila Broughton, a native of Wisconsin. They are the parents of three children: Gracie A., John B., and Donald.
 
[page 732] Hawley, James M., retired merchant, Clarinda; born May 10, 1804, in Danbury, Connecticut. His early education was exceedingly limited, but by a perseverance rarely equaled he has possessed himself of a fund of knowledge that would put to shame many of more pretentious educational advantages. In the state from which he came are many peculiar trades, and he went to learn one of them--that of a comb-maker, following the trade for a period of eight years. In 1832 he went to Dunkirk, New York, starting a comb factory on his own account. Two years later he went to Detroit, Michigan, where he kept the Yankee Boarding [page 733] House--it is to presumed after the good old hearty style of ancient New England. He subsequently took the Cottage Hotel, and in 1836 took the American Hotel, the largest and principal hotel in the city. After a two years experience with the latter he removed to Rochester, in Oakland county, opening a store and purchasing a flouring-mill, remaining for twelve years. In 1850 he went to St Joseph, Missouri, forming a partnership with Mr A. Sorley, in the mercantile business. In January, 1853, he came to Page county and located at Hawleyville, opening a store, using two barrels and a rough board for a counter, in an old log house, and retailing the first good sold in Page county. In 1863 he went to Clarinda, starting a store in connection with A. Loranz, and selling out the business a year or two afterward to his son, J.D. Hawley. In 1864 he again went to St Joseph, Missouri, and engaged in the mercantile buiness nearly nine years. While a resident of that city he was the secretary of the company which built the great railraod bridge across the Missouri at that place. After a residence of eleven years in the city of St Joseph he came again to Clarinda, and soon came into public life again, having been elected justice of the peace. In connection with this public office he established a collection agency, in which he has been remarkably successful. Mr H. was married in September, 1832, to Miss Charlotte L. Petty, a native of Clairmont, New Hampshire. They are the parents of four children: J.D., Clarinda's most successful merchant; Julia, (wife of D.C. Chamberlain), Ada, (wife of D.C. Zimmerman, an attorney, at St Joseph, Missouri), and one, the oldest duaghter, deceased. Mr Hawley's identification with the interest of the county, and his influence in shaping its success is most fittingly commemorated by the village of Hawleyville, laid out by himself in 1853, and the oldest place in the county. A man of deep convictions, of sterling worth, of unimpeachable integrity, active and generous, the annals of this county will ever cause his name to be an honored one among all posterity.
 
[page 734] Hawley, J.D., merchant, P.O. Clarinda; born in Detroit, Michigan, November 29, 1836. In 1848 his parents removed to Missouri, locating in Buchanan county, and in 1853 came to Page [county], locating at Hawleyville, in Nebraska township. Eleven years later Mr Hawley came to Clarinda, entering the general store of Curtis, Hawley & Co. In 1866 Mr Hawley purchased the interest of his partners in the business, which he has carried on in his own name since. He has been a most successful businessman, active in every enterprise looking toward the growth of Clarinda, his latest business venture being the magnificent opera house block mentioned in the preceding pages. He was married on December 25, 1859, to Miss Sarah E. McAlpin, a native of Indiana. They are the parents of one child, Arthur J. Mr Hawley is a strict business man and as suc[page735]cessful in making friends, as a man of integrity and generous motives could be.
 

[page 735] Henshaw, E., contractor and builder, P.O. Clarinda; born in Erie county, February 26, 1840. He here lived until sixteen years of age, when his parents came to Iowa, settling in Taylor county. He was a resident of that county until 1872, when he came to Clarinda. Mr Henshaw was married October 22, 1872, to Miss E.W. Hinman, a native of Illinois, by whom he has one child, Nellie. His present business partnership was formed in the fall of 1875, and has been a most lucrative one.

[ from Jan Hinshaw - hinshaw323@comcast.net: in regard to E. Henshaw's birth it should say "born in Erie county [New York], February 26, 1840". Jan's page link to this family is: http://www.rawbw.com/~hinshaw/cgi-bin/id?4901 ]

 
[page 739] Morledge, J.R., attorney at law, real estate and insurance, Clarinda; born February 4, 1812 in England, coming, at the age of nine years, with his parents to America. They located in Columbiana county, [page 740] Ohio, in the common schools of which county he received his education. When twenty-one years of age he began the study of civil engineering, and going to Indiana in 1837, he was employed on the public works of that state, remaining in its employ for a period of two years; he then engaged in the mercantile business at Hartsville, Indiana, continuing in the same until 1857. Previous to this, in 1840, he read law with William Hendricks, and was admitted to the bar in 1843. Was appointed postmaster in 1853. On closing out his business in 1857, he came to Clarinda, opening a law office in connection with J.T. Chittenden. In the fall of 1863, he was appointed commissary of subsistence of volunteers, with the rank of captain, and was stationed at Marietta, Ohio. After a service of about one year he resigned his commission and returned home, resuming the practice of law. He was colonel of the First regiment of volunteer militia, western division of Iowa. In 1867 he was elected county judge of Page county, retaining the office for a term of three years. Mr M. is now a justice of the peace. He was marrieed May 10, 1838, to Miss Maria L. Branham, of Kentucky. By this union they are the parents of twelve children: Robert R., Margaret, (wife of L.F. Abbot), Nancy M., (wife of John Burrows), Emma, (wife of James H. Hill,) Catherine, (wife of Edward Shown), William E., Alice, (wife of W.W. Ruble), and Fred M., living, and four deceased.
 
[page 741] Miller, Elijah, surveyor, P.O. Clarinda. One of the earliest settlers of the county, and has been closely identified with the interests of the county from its first settlement. He was born January 2, 1825, in East Tennessee. At the age of seventeen years he came with his parents to Platt county, Missouri, where they lived about one year, after which they moved to Buchanan county. There he grew to manhood, receiving a very liberal education at Union seminary, which was located near the line between Platt and Buchanan counties. In 1845, upon leaving school, he engaged in teaching, an occupation he followed for several years more or less of the time, studying medicine at the same time. In 1852 he came to Iowa, locating in Tarkio township, in this county. He taught the first school in the town of Clarinda. Soon after his arrival in the county he went into the practice of medicine, which he continued for about five years, doing most of the practice of the county during that time. At the time he came to the county, surveyors were in great demand, and he having all the qualifications necessary, he was at once pressed into service as such, and he has followed it more or less since. In the fall of 1843 [1853?] he was appointed clerk of the court to fillout the unexpired term of Dr A.H. Farrens, who had resigned. The next fall he was elected to the office for another term. The business of the court at that time was of such volume that he used to carry all the papers from his residence to court in his saddle bags. His salary was one hundred dollars per year. Before the close of his term he resigned, to retire to a private life, but the fates were against him, for he was soon elected county surveyor, which office he held for six years. In 1869 he was elected to the office of school superintend[page 742]ent for the county, and held it until January, 1880, with the exception of one term. So he has been identified with the school interests of the county, as teacher or superintendent, from the earliest settlement to the present time, and to him, as much or more than any other man, is due the flourishing condition of the public schools of the county. He laid out the town of Clarinda, and several other of the towns in the county which have sprung up since. He was married July 4, 1852, to Miss Alethea Loy, a native of Tennessee. By this union they have six children: Josephine, Webster C., Sophia (wife of John Akin, of Clarinda), Alice, Noah W. and Charlie B.
 
[page 747] Ridenour, D.W., harnessmaker and saddler, P.O. Clarinda; born November 19, 1841, in Tennessee. In 1861 he enlisted in company C, Twentieth Ohio infantry, serving four months, re-enlisting September 5, 1861, in company E, Twenty-second Ohio infantry, serving until November 19, 1864, and again February 13, 1865, in company I, 187th Ohio, serving until January 29, 1866. In April, of the year following, he came to Iowa, locating at Clarinda, and learned the harness and saddlery trade with Burns & Rounds. He was married May 3, 1872, to Miss A.O. Sawyer, a native of Maine, by whom he is the father of two children: Myrtie and Bruce. Mr R. has built up an extensive business, and his premises are among the best in the city.
 
[page 748] Ridenour, N.C., editor and proprietor of the Page County Democrat, P.O. Clarinda; born July 13, 1836, in Campbell county, Tennessee. His education was limited to that afforded by the common schools of Tennessee; but by far his best teacher has been experience, than which none in so well calculated to bring out native energy and strength of character. In 1855 he went to Maysville, Missouri, engaging in various pursuits until 1856, when he came to Iowa, locating at Clarinda. He found employment for the year following as a clerk in the drug store of Dr Kridlebaugh, after which he became a stage-driver, carpenter and dry goods clerk, succes- [page 749] sively, until 1862, when he returned to Missouri, going to St Joe, as a clerk of a Mr Wilson. In July of the same year he returned to Clarinda, and on the 18th day of that month he enlisted in company F, Twenty-third Iowa infantry, serving until the close of the war. His record as a military man was more than ordinarily brilliant. He was successively promoted from second sergeant to second lieutenant, and, in July, 1864, to first lieutenant, having command of the company until September of the same year, when he was on staff duty with Col. M.C. Dye, with whom he served about three months. He was then transferred to the staff of Gen Black, as assistant inspector-general, serving in that capacity until April, 1865. He was then detailed on court-martial at Fort Morgan, Alabama, serving until May following when the army was re-organized. General Granger then detailed him assistant inspector-general of Bertrams' independent brigade. In June he was ordered to New Orleans, as aid-de camp on the staff of Brev. Brigadier-General Glasgow, remaining one month. He was mustered out at Harrisburg, Texas, below Houston, returning to Davenport, Iowa, at which place the company was disbanded August 18, 1865. He was in the battles--among others--of Port Gibson, Raymond, Jackson, Champion Hills, Edward Station, Black River and the Siege of Vicksburg. On returning to Clarinda he clerked four years in the drug store of Dr Conine, since which time he has been editing and publishing the Page County Democrat-- elsewhere mentioned. Mr Ridenour was married on March 25, 1866, to Miss E.T. Smith, a native of Springfield, Illinois, by whom he is the father of two children: Eva F. and Clyde.
 
[page 758] Bussard, G.F., farmer, sections 34 and 35; born in Dubuque county, Iowa, October 2, 1856. Came to this township in the fall of 1878. Married June 4, 1877, to Miss Annie Arthurburns, a native of Kentucky. They have one child: Sarah Emma, born September 17, 1879. Owens 440 acres of land.

[page 759] Falk, C.M., dealer in grain and broom corn, P.O. Essex; born in Sweden in 1841. His father emigrated in 1853. He married Miss Ellen Johnson in 1862, having only $100 as his whole property. But soon, by hard work and good management he has accumulated a fair competency. He owns 700 acres of land in Illinois. Mr Falk came to Page county in 1874, when he at once commenced an extensive business. He now owns 880 acres of land, has an elevator of a capacity of 25,000 bushels, and a half interest in a steam mill. Mr Falk is the father of four children: Josephine, Selma, Alma and Hilda. In 1878 he met with a [page 760] heavy loss in an unfortunate grain speculation--$15,000 being the price of his experience.
 
[page 743] McKinnon, T.J., feed and sale stable, P.O. Clarinda; born in Rush county, Indiana, in 1835. He there grew to manhood a farmer, receiving his education in the common schools of that state. In 1853 he came to Iowa, settling in Des Moines county, in which he lived about three years. He then came to Page county, and until 1879, followed the occupation of a farmer. His farm of 85 acres is in East River township, on section 17. Was married in 1856, to Miss Mary E. Welsh, a native of Henry county, Indiana, by whom he has three children: Elias T., Harriet C. and Henry S.
 
[page 746] Park, O.H., photographer, P.O. Clarinda; born April 18, 1853, in Van Buren county, Iowa. When fifteen years of age his parents moved to Ottumwa, where the subject of this sketch attained his majority, receiving his education in the common schools. When seventeen he began to study the art of photography with H.L. Shaw, of Ottumwa, with whom he remained, as apprentice and operator, about eighteen months. In 1871 he opened a gallery in Elden, remaining until the fall of 1873. He then returned to Ottumwa and purchased the business of his former preceptor, continuing the same until the fall of 1874, when he came to Clarinda, forming a partnership with Mr E.B. Hinman. In March, 1877, he sold his interest to his partner, and went to California, to return to his native state at the end of a year. Coming again to Clarinda he purchased the business of his former partner, which he has industriously followed since. As an artist Mr Park has no superior in southwestern Iowa. His work is a model of neatness and beauty of design. Married October 4, 1880, to Miss Mollie Kittle, a native of Indiana, born May 25, 1860.
 
[page 746] Powers, J.H., retired farmer, P.O. Clarinda; born in West Virginia September 24, 1807. At the age of sixteen years he moved with his parents to Wayne county, Indiana, in which state he grew to manhood, receiving his education in the common schools. In 1854 he came to Clarinda, making this city his home since that date. In that year he purchased a log cabin, which stood on the spot now occupied by the Central hotel. In 1856 he engaged in the mercantile business, carrying on a trade in general merchandise until 1864. Mr Power's land operations have not been confined to the vicinity of Clarinda, but he has purchased, and now owns land in Texas, Kansas and Florida. He was married January 15, 1835, to Miss G.S. Tomlinson, a native of North Carolina, by whom he had seven children, four living: Amanda (wife Harvey White), Sarah E. (wife of C. Linderman, banker), N. Olive and Thomas E.
 
[page 765] Ross, Frank, farmer and stock-raiser, section 15, P.O. Essex; born in Ohio in the year 1839. Educated in Henry College, Illinois. Came to this state in the fall of 1874. He now lives on a fine farm of eighty acres, and is the owner. In 1862 he was married to Miss Elizabeth Morrison, from which marriage has resulted the birth of five children: Uriella, Lula, Maud, Frank, and Lawrence. Mr Ross is a man [page 766] calculated to win the respect of all who know him, and enjoys the entire confidence of his neighbors. He is a worthy man.
 
[page 770] Harlin, J.B., farmer, section 16; born in McDonough county, Illinois, August 21, 1854. Settled in Page county, Iowa, in 1874. Was married to Miss Mary M. Larabee, November 31, 1879. Mr Harlan is still a young man, but one of great energy and noble purposes.
 
[page 770] Miller, Wolf, farmer, P.O. Tarkio; born in Anderson county, Tennessee, October 20, 1837, and lived there until 1840, then moved with [page 771] his parents to Platte county, Missouri. Here he received a common school education. In 1852 he came to Iowa. Enlisted in the United States army August 11, 1862, in company F, twenty-third Iowa infantry, and was in all the battles in which that regiment fought. He was married January 1, 1862, to Miss Martha J. Harrell, a native of Tennessee. They have two children, Louis E. and one unnamed. Mr Miller came from one of the first families to settled in Tarkio township, and is fully conversant with all its wonderful career of progress.
 
[page 771] Miller, R.C., farmer, section 29, P.O. Tarkio; born June 25, 1838, in Anderson county, Tennessee. Was there raised and educated in the common school. Came with his parents to Iowa in 1854. Mr Miller located on his present farm in 1869. He enlisted in company F, First Nebraska infantry, June 17, 1861. Was in the battles of Shiloh, Port Jackson and other skirmishes. Was honorably discharged November 10, 1864. Was married August 16, 1860, to Miss J.E. McDonald, by whom he has three children: Revel E., Nellie E., and Maud M. He owns a fine farm, and has it under excellent management.
 
[page 772] Snodderly, John, farmer, section 23, P.O. Tarkio; born November 2, 1836, in Anderson county, Tennessee. Went with his parents to Platte county, Missouri, in 1842, remaining until 1853, when he settled in Tarkio township. Enlisted August 9, 1862, in company F 23d Iowa infantry, fighting bravely in all the battles in which his regiment participated. Was married to Miss Mary A. Kennel, April 20, 1871. They have two children: James W. and Mahala F. Owens a fine farm, under a high state of cultivation.
 
[page 772] Straw, Lewis, farmer, section eight, P.O. Essex; born in Green county, Wisconsin, July 14, 1853. Was there raised and educated in the common schools. Came to Iowa in 1874, and two years later located on his present farm. He was married in 1876 to Miss A. James, by whom he has two children: Myrtle and Minnie. His farm is in fine condition, and a monument of his industry and perseverance.
 
[page 776] Moore, Mrs Sarah, widow of John Moore, farmer, section 9; born in Adams county, Ohio, 18--. Married to John Moore, in 1838, by whom she had the following children: Millie, Edward, Margaret, Anderson, John, Thomas, Eliza and Austin, (twins), Benjamin and Catharine. James is deceased. Mrs Moore came to Page county with her husband --who died April 27, 1874--in 1858. They located on their present farm in 1864. The youngest son, Benjamin, manages the farm. He is a man of more than ordinary business ability, and of sterling worth; respected and loved by all who know him.
 
[page 777] Reed, Hamilton, farmer, section 26, P.O. Villisca; born in Vigo county, Indiana, August 27, 1842, where he received a common school education. Was married to Miss Isabel Johnson, of same county, October 18, 1866. They have three children, all living: William A., Lucinda and Eva L. He emigrated to this county, and located on his present farm in April, 1866. Has a farm of 120 acres, well improved, and a thriving young orchard of 100 trees bearing. He enlisted in company F, Eighty-fifth Indiana Infantry during the late war, and served three years in the department of the Cumberland. Participated in Sherman's march to the sea, and afterward returned to Tennessee, and participated in the important [page 778] battles there. Was taken prisoner at Thompson's Station, near Spring Hill, and made to suffer the hospitalities of Libby Prison for 26 days. He is of English descent. His father is one of the early settlers of his county in Indiana, and is now one of its oldest living citizens. His grandfather was in the war 1812, as well as frontier war with the Indians. His great-grandfather Reed was a member of the continental congress, while his grandfather on his mother's side participated in the great war of the Revolution.
 
[page 781] Painter, J.A., farmer, section 29, P.O. Walkerville; born June 11, 1852, in McDonough county, Illinois. Lived with his parents until 1867, [page 782] when he went to Johnson county, Missouri. Was employed in the county recorder's office until the fall of 1869, when he returned to McDonough county, and was employed until 1870 in a dry goods store. He then went to Texas, working at the stock business. He again returned to Illinois, and in the spring of 1873 he went to San Francisco. Was in the business of abstracts and titles. In the summer of 1878 he came to his present location in Washington township. In the year 1879 he was married to Miss E. May Humphrey, September 2. They have one child: A. Leroy, born July 5, 1880.
 
[page 780] ARTMAN, O. P., farmer and iron manufacturer, section 28; born September 1, 1815, in Ulster county, New York. When he was ten years old went to work in an iron foundry, and was employed in that business a number of years. Was married to Miss Caroline Williams, July 3, 1842, by the Rev. Ensign Stover, of the M. E. church. He continued in the manufacturing business until 1853, when Mrs. Artman died, August 27. Then he went to Illinois, where he was married to Miss Lucy Darly, by the Rev. Cowder, of the M. E. church, of Marshall county, Illinois. He came to Iowa in 1876, and located in Washington township. Joined the M. E. church November 3, 1831. Has served as Sabbath school superintendent for a number of years, taking great interest in that work.
 

[page 780] HARRIS, ALEXANDER, farmer, P. O. Shenandoah; born near McComb, Illinois, September 1, 1836. Lived with his parents until twenty-two years old. He remained in that locality until twenty-seven years old, when he enlisted in company L, 7th regiment Illinois cavalry, and served nine months and was discharged and sent home to McComb. In 1863 moved to Adams county, Illinois and remained there about two years when he came to his present location in Washington township. He was married to Miss Matilda Spiker, September 14, 1872. Mrs. Harris was born in 1851, in Hancock county, Illinois.    They have five chil-[page 781] dren: Ruby M., Louis A., Loy E., Melvina and Arthur Garfield, the baby. Mr. Harris owns 480 acres of land, all in cultivation, and is an enterprising, industrious man.

 

[page 781] HOUSER, ROBERT C, farmer, section 3, P. O. Blanchard; born February 8, 1849, near Felicity, Clermont county, Ohio. At the age of twelve years, his parents moved to Champaign county, Illinois, where he resided with his parents until twenty-one years old. In 1874 he came to Page county, Iowa, and located in Washington township. Was married to Miss Priscilla E. Hahn, by the Rev. Samuel Farlow, of the M. E. Church. Mrs. Houser was born September 17, 1857, near Galesburg, Illinois. Mr. Houser owns 320 acres of land, all under cultivation. Has one child, born February 19, 1880.
 

[page 781] MERKLE, W. G., farmer, section 8, P. O. Shenandoah; born March, 1850, near Shendorf, Wurtemburg, Germany. At the age of seventeen he left home for the United States, going to Defiance, Ohio, and then to Toledo, working at different avocations; thence to Peoria, Illinois, where he worked on a farm for two years. Was married to Miss Caroline Knoos, August 14, 1874. He came to his present location, in Washingtor township in 1877. Mrs. Merkle was born in December, 1840. They are the parents of six children: Charles, Johnny, Anna, Mary, Bertha ant Freddy. He owns 160 acres of land, 145 acres under plow, the rest pasture.