Taken from “The Pioneer History of Pocahontas County, Iowa” by Robert E. Flickinger, A. B. B. D, published by Fonda Times, Fonda Iowa, 1904

Transcribed by Mary Alice Schwanke and Cyndi Vertrees

Biography of Perry H. Sherman

SHERMAN, PERRY H. (1838-1902), Rolfe, was a native of Cattaraugus county, N.Y. At the age of four he was bereft of mother and his deprived of a home, circumstances that compelled him to support himself as soon as he was able. He grew to manhood on a farm and in 1858, married Jerusha Smith. In 1865, he located in Jones county, Iowa, where he experienced the hardships common to the pioneers of that section, one of which was the protection of their lives and homes against the depredations of outlaws. During a part of this period he was captain of a band of vigilantes, who were organized for the purpose of apprehending and punishing horse-thieves and other violators of law. In 1892, he became the owner and occupant of a farm adjoining Rolfe and died at 64 in 1902. By industry and frugality he acquired a comfortable competency. He was a man of sterling worth, truthful in his word and exemplary in his conduct.

His family consisted of eight children, namely, J.P. and F.H. Sherman, merchants, Mrs. O.B. Fuller, Nellie, Fred A. and Benjamin Sherman, all of whom reside at Rolfe. Fred and Benjamin in 1902, were students of the State University at Iowa City, having in view the practice of law and medicine respectively. One of his children died in childhood and Alice, wife of F.F. Ellicker, died in 1900, at her home in Des Moines.