Olds, James


JAMES OLDS is one of the old soldier farmers of Pottawattamie County, who, after serving his country in the great civil war, has settled down to the peaceful pursuits of agriculture. He was born on a farm at Elgin, Kane County, Illinois, on the site where now stands the court-house, January 24, 1841. He was the son of Ransom OLDS, who descended from an old American family. The great-grandfather of our subject was a seaman, and during the reign of King George, of England, captured a celebrated Scottish pirate, and in an encounter with broad-swords killed and beheaded him, and gained a large reward. He was a man of fearless courage, and this trait of character has descended in the family for generations. He was a native of England, and settled in Vermont. His son George was a farmer of Rutland County, Vermont, and his farm was on the site of the now famous marble quarries; he was a tailor by trade. He married Mary ORMSBY, and they were the parents of thirteen children, viz.: James, who was a captain in the war of 1812, and was killed by the Indians; Daniel, Ezra, Gideon and Ransom, are all that are known. The father lived to be ninety-seven years of age. Ransom, the father of our subject, was born in Rutland County, Vermont, and learned farming in early life. He went to New York State, and was married at French Mills village to Florella McMILLEN, daughter of Arthur McMILLEN, a millwright by trade, and of Scotch descent. He was in the war of 1812 and helped to burn the fleet of vessels at French Mills village to prevent the British from capturing them. He was the father of five children: James, Alexander, Duncan, Margaret and Floretta. The father lived to the age of eighty-two years, and was killed by the falling of a tree at Elgin, Illinois. He was one of the pioneer settlers of that State. Ransom OLDS was a soldier in the war of 1812, and the father of thirteen children: Ransom, born December 19, 1800; Florilla H., February 29, 1807; George, November 14, 1828; John, August 28, 1830; Mary Florilia, February 2, 1832; Arthur Ransom, October 24, 1834; Duncan M., January 26, 1837; Lucy J., February 14, 1839; James, January 24, 1841; Gideon, September 8, 1842; Daniel, September 14, 1844; Margaret, November 12, 1845; and Laverna, October 10, 1848. The father moved in an early day to La Porte County, Indiana, and settled on a farm at Door Village, but after a few years removed to Elgin, and passed through Chicago, which was then a small trading post. Mr. OLDS was the first settler of Elgin, and took up Government land, hauling his produce to Chicago. He finally moved twelve miles west of Elgin, where he remained several years; then moved to a farm in Kankakee County, Illinois, where he died. He was a typical American Pioneer, and was one of the men who helped to subdue the wilderness of Illinois. His two brothers, James and Daniel, were soldiers in the war of 1812.
James OLDS, our subject, enlisted in Company B, Forty-second Regiment, Illinois Volunteer Infantry, at the age of twenty years, and served three years and ten days. He was in the battle of Stone River, and Chickamaugua, where he was wounded in the left fore-arm, and he still carries the ball. He was in the hospital, and after recovering did hospital duty, part of the time on the United States hospital steamer R. C. Wood, as second steward. He was mustered out and honorably discharged September 10, 1864, at Lexington, Kentucky. Mr. OLDS had one brother, Arthur R., who was in Company I, Sixty-fifth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and served nine months, and was captured at Harper's Ferry, paroled and exchanged, and mustered out.
After ther war our subject engaged in farming in Kankakee County, Illinois, and in 1871 went to Fillmore County, Nebraska, where he took up wild land and remained three years. In 1874 he came to his present farm in Lincoln Township. He descends from men who fought as soldiers in their struggle for liberty, and as pioneers helped to rebuild the wilderness. Both himself, brother and wife's brother fought for the preservation of the Union, and the children should take an honest pride in the sterling ancestry from which they sprang. Mr. OLDS was married in Momence, Kankakee County, Illinois, to Emily BURNS, who was born in the same county, October 17, 1849, the daughter of James H. and Charlotte (FORCE) BURNS. The father was of Scotch descent, and moved from Vermont to Kankakee County in an early day. He was the father of six children, viz.: Regiah, Amaziah, Amasa S., Lovina, Mary A. and Emily. Amaziah and Amasa were soldiers in the civil war; the former was in Company K, One Hundred and Thirteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and the latter served four years and nine months in Company D, Forty-second Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and was in all the battles of his regiment. Mr. BURNS lived to the age of fifty years. To Mr. and Mrs. OLDS have been born six children, four of whom are now living: Amasa, born September 17, 1866; Nettie W., December 25, 1868; Willie, May 22, 1871, deceased; Frank, July 19, 1872; Emma, January 24, 1874, deceased; and Lovina, February 10, 1877.

Olney, Justin J.


JUSTIN J. OLNEY, of Belknap Township, was born in Kirtland, Lake Co, Ohio, February 8, 1838, son of OLIVER and ALICE (JOHNSON) OLNEY, the former a native of New England and the atter of the state of Vermont. The father, reared and educated in New England, followed his profession of cloth manufacturer, in the land of his birth, and emigrated to Ohio in an early day, locating first in Portage Co., thence removing to Lake Co. He emigrated thence to Nauvoo, Illinois, and a few years later removed to the State of Missouri, where his wife died in 1842. Soon afterward he moved back to Ilinois, where he married again and remained until the date of his death. He was the father of 11 children, namely: Newton, who died about 1841; Milton, now residing in Ohio; Emily, who resides in Oregon, having emigrated there about the year 1846 or 47; Mary, who went to Oregon in 1852 and died in November 1855; Rosetta, who died about the year 1842; Oliver, who died in Belknap Township, Pottawattamie County, Iowa, in 1875 at the age of 42 years; Laura, still living in Kirtland, Ohio; Caroline A., who died in 1858; Cornelia, who died about 1841; Justin J. the subject of this sketch; and Albert, who died in infancy in 1842. Mr. OLNEY, the subject of this sketch, and his sister, Mary, after the death of their mother, were taken by an Uncle, JOHN JOHNSON, living at Hiram, Ohio, who brought them up. Laura was brought up by MRS. EMILY QUINN, an aunt, who lived at Kirtland, Ohio. Caroline was brought up by MRS. JASON RYDER, an aunt, of Hiram, Ohio. In the year 1855, Mr. JOHNSON came to Pottawattamie Co, Iowa, and located on a farm near Council Bluffs where young Justin J. worked for him by the month for about one year. He then rented a part of Mr. JOHNSON's farm and worked for him until 1862, when he made three trips across the plains to Denver, August 9, 1865, he married Miss MARY E. MORRISON, daughter of EDWIN S. and EVELINE (MORRIS) MORRISON. Mr. MORRISON was reared in his native state of Missouri. December 8, 1836, he married his wife in Virginia, her native State. His first ancestors in America settled in this country in early times. His father was a Presbyterian minister. After his marriage, Mr. MORRISON visited Cincinnati, Ohio, resided for a time at Madison, Indiana, and then returned to Cincinnati, where his wife died in 1847, leaving five children, namely: Monteville, now a resident of Kansas City, Missouri; Sarah E., deceased; Mary E. wife of Mr. OLNEY, Catherine and Elizabeth, both deceased. Mrs. OLNEY was born in Indiana November 27, 1842. Her mother having died when she was quite young, she was taken care of by her grandmother for one year; then her father married MARGARET DENTON September 14, 1849, and she was taken to his home in Cincinnati, where she was brought up. At the age of 18 years, she came to South English, Iowa, to reside with her brother, where she made her home until her marriage. In 1866 Mr. OLNEY purchased 240 acres of land on the west side of the Nishnabotna River, near his present home. Since that time, he purchased 40 acres more, all of which he occupied and improved until 1880, when he rented his farm and removed to Oakland and engaged in the trade in agricultural implements; but a year afterward he moved upon a farm in the vicinity of Oakland. In 1883 he exchanged his farm for an undivided one-half interest in a tract of 560 acres. When the division was made, he obtained 320 acres of fine land in section 23 and 24 where improvements had been made. His principal business is agriculture. He has 140 acres in cultivation, and the rest in pasture and meadow. He also has an orchard of one and a half acres of applies and small fruit. There is a fine spring of water upon his land, furnishing a good supply of pure water for all purposes. Politically Mr. OLNEY is a Republican and a zealous advocate of Republican principles. He has been a prominent member of the Board of Education in his township and has held many of the township offices, which he has filled to the satisfaction of the people. His family are members of the Christian or Disciples' Church of Oakland. His two children are: Caroline Alice, the wife of D.S. PLEAK, who now resides in Macedonia Township, this county; and Wayne, living at home with his parents. Mrs. Olney's father resides in Springfield, Ohio, and by his second wife has six children, to wit: Marion E., Belle, Sarah, Louisa, Margaret and George. Marion E. now resides in Cincinnati, Ohio; Louisa is the wife of a Mr. McCONNELL, in Illinois, and the others are at home.

Owens, Francis Marion


FRANCIS MARION OWENS, of section 1, Garner Township, is another prominent citizen who deserves mention in this work, as he has been a resident of this county ever since 1850. He was born in Monroe County, Missouri, October 18, 1832, the son of Elijah Owens, a Virginian, now deceased. His mother's name before marriage was Mary Holman, and she was a native of Kentucky and died when the subject of this sketch was seven years of age. He was a small boy when his father removed to Shelbyville, Shelby County, Missouri where they resided until he was thirteen years of age. They then removed to Putnam County, where they lived until he was eighteen years of age. He was brought up on a farm and reared principally by strangers. It was in October 1850, when he came to this county and engaged chiefly in herding cattle until about 1854. He then married and settled in Monona County, Iowa, near Ashton Grove, north of where Onawa now is. Remaining there until about 1860, he returned to this county and engaged in jobbing and trading in livestock at Council Bluffs. In 1874, he located upon his present farm of 160 acres, being then a Mormon claim and one of the first settlers. Mr. Owens has built a fine cottage and embellished the premises, making a fine home. Living streams from pure springs run through the farm. Thus, dairying is a continued specialty. Mr. Owens is a zealous and intelligent Republican Prohibitionist, a man of easy manners and address, and honorable in all his dealings, spending much time and money in the cause of temperance.

Mr. Owens was married June 25, 1854, to Miss Samantha Jane DOUGLASS, a woman of intelligence and education, who was born in Scotland County, Missouri, and came to Pottawattamie County in 1851 with her parents, John McFarland Douglass and Hannah, nee Barnes, a native of Missouri. Mr. Douglass was born in St. Louis, Missouri, and had lived in Pottawattamie County but two or three weeks when he drowned in a cut-off near Manawa Lake on May 24, 1851, leaving a widow and one child.

Mr. And Mrs. Owens have two children, viz.: Len Douglass, who was born in Monona County, Iowa, and is engaged in extensive manufacturing in San Francisco, California; and Frank M., who is a resident of the homestead.

Winfield S. PACKARD, the subject of this sketch, was born on the old homestead in Johnson County, Iowa, March 19, 1847, and gained the elements of his education in a log cabin, and also lived in a cabin constructed in the same manner. He early learned to work on the farm and in his father's saw and grist mill, and grew up with that best of aids to a sound constitution, a good character. He remained with his father until he was twenty-four years of age. In March 1872, he moved to Walnut and engaged in the mercantile business, in which he continued until 1881, when he was burned out. He then traveled for a grocery house in Chicago, and then, in 1884, went into the real estate and insurance business which he has since continued; he also owns a livery stable. Mr. PACKARD has been a member of the Council six years, Township Clerk six years, and Justice of the Peace two years. Politically, he is a Republican and is a man who stands high for good, upright moral character, and is well known to the citizens of this part of the country.

December 8, 1871, Mr. PACKARD was married to Miss Emily J. MYERS, daughter of Peter and Nancy (WATSON) MYERS. The father was an old settler of Iowa County, a native of Pennsylvania and of German descent. He moved from Pennsylvania to Ohio, where he was a Senator from Columbus. He was a substantial farmer, and the father of fifteen children: Mary, Elizabeth, Maria A., D. and Reside W., twins; William H., Caroline M., Jennie, Mack, Columbia, Ella, Sylester, Samuel P. and one who died in infancy. To Mr. And Mrs. PACKARD have been born three children: Ida M., deceased in infancy; Cordie M. and Gracie F.

Lewis PAINTER, son of the above and the subject of this sketch, was but eight years of age when his parents removed to Iowa. He learned farming in early life, and after marriage settled on a rented farm in Jasper County for two years. In 1869, he came to Cass County, and in 1870 came to his present farm of 280 acres in Lincoln Township, Pottawattamie County, which was then a wild prairie, but which he has since converted into a fine fertile farm. When Mr. PAINTER came to this township, he was the only settler, and thus he has the honor of being the first pioneer settler of Lincoln Township. He remained on his claim but one season, built a home and then sold it, and seven years afterward bought the same claim back. Politically, he is a Republican, and has also taken an active interest in education, and is a man who stands deservedly high in his township for his sterling worth.

Mr. PAINTER was married August 11, 1866, at the early age of twenty-one years, to Mary L. WHITCOMB, who was born October 22, 1844, in Huron County, Ohio, and was but eleven years of age when, in 1855, her parents came to Jasper County, Iowa, in a company having twenty-one horses. It was in the early summer and the trip was a pleasant one, occupying one month. She was the daughter of Orrin and Lydia (BUTLER) WHITCOMB. The father was born in Connecticut, and in 1855 settled in Jasper County, Iowa. He was married in New York state to Lydia BUTLER, daughter of Samuel BUTLER, who was a farmer of Albany, New York, and also participated in the War of the Revolution. Both families were descended from old Connecticut families. Mr. And Mrs. WHITCOMB had five children: Aaron, deceased at twenty years of age; Branch, Maria, who died in infancy, Levina and Mary L. The mother lived to the age of eighty-six years and the father died in Jasper County, at the age of sixty-one. He was one of the old pioneer settlers of this county, was a devout church member, and respected by all who knew him. Politically, he was a Democrat. When he moved to Huron County, Ohio, he had to cut his way through the heavy forests and fire the trees to make a narrow path. Postage was twenty-five cents for a letter to New York. Mr. And Mrs. PAINTER are the parents of eight children, viz.: Joseph U., born January 8, 1869; James F., October 31, 1870; Lydia, June 24, 1872; Ira V., April 1, 1874; Seth O., who died in infancy; Jennie, born April 27, 1877; Burleigh M., July 9, 1879; Jay C., October 14, 1882.

Marion PALMER, the subject of this sketch, was born in Mercer County, Illinois, April 5, 1851, and was early inured to farm life. He was but two years of age when he came to Council Bluffs with his parents. After his marriage, he settled on his present farm, which then consisted of forty acres of wild land, but which he has since converted into a fine fertile farm of 200 acres. He is engaged largely in the stock business. He has taken an active interest in the cause of education and has been School Director and also Road Supervisor. Politically he is a Republican and stands deservedly high among his fellow citizens for his sterling worth.

November 24, 1883, Mr. PALMER was married to Lizzie J. SCOTT, daughter of William and Jane (JEFFRIES) SCOTT. The father is an old settler of this county and is still living on his farm near Oakland. He came from Ohio in 1869 and is the father of six children: Lizzie J., Lydia, Charles, Lillie, Theodore, and Mary. The father was a soldier in our great Civil War, and is respected in the community in which he lives. Mr. And Mrs. PALMER are the parents of four children: Myrtle, Gertrude, Ernest, and an infant unnamed.

Mr. PARKER was engaged in agricultural pursuits in Illinois until 1869. In that year, he came to Pottawattamie County, Iowa, and bought land in section 25, Waveland Township. After making some improvements on it, he sold the property and bought 160 acres where he now lives, in section 16. The soil had been broken, but there were no buildings on the land. Mr. PARKER has improved this farm, and has added to it by other purchases until he is now the owner of 400 acres of as rich land as can be found in Iowa. His first house was a small frame one, 16 X 20 feet. This with other additions was burned down in 1886 and the next year was replaced by a more modern home. This is one of the best farm residences in the eastern part of the county, is built on a rock foundation, has bay window and porches, and was erected at a cost of $2,000. It is beautifully located and the lawn which surrounds it is dotted over with flowering shrubs and ornamental trees. Mr. PARKER has a grove and orchard of four acres. His barn is 36 X 50 feet and his other improvements, windmill, sheds for stock, fences, etc. are all of a substantial character.

In Henry County, Illinois, May 4, 1869, Mr. PARKER married Miss Lucretia BOLLEN, who has since been the sharer of his joys and sorrows. She was born in Henry County, Illinois, April 20, 1849, daughter of John and Permelia BOLLEN. Mr. And Mrs. PARKER have four children: Alfred L., Ethel Pearl, Lewis Elmer, and Coral Evelyn. They lost one child, Effie Permelia, who died at the age of thirteen months. Mr. PARKER is a Republican, has served as Township Trustee and as Treasurer of the School Board for twelve years. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, Cass Lodge, No. 412. He is well posted on the general topics of the day, is broad and progressive in his views, and is a friend to both education and religion. He is a member of the Church of Christ of Waveland Township, to which he gives his liberal and earnest support.

Mr. PARKER was married in Mills County, Iowa, January 14, 1873, to Miss Mary E. FOXWORTHY, a lady of intelligence and refinement and a native of Indiana. Her parents were Joseph and Mary FOXWORTHY. Mr. And Mrs. PARKER have eight children, as follows: Louisa and Minnie Stella, James Henry, Frederick William, Bertha Ellen, Robert Lincoln, Elva May and John Sherman. Mr. Parker's political views are in harmony with Republican principles. He has served the public as Township Trustee and as a member of the school board. He is an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Lone Star and is a steward of the same. He has also served as superintendent of the Sabbath school. Mr. PARKER is an enterprising and worthy citizen, and every movement that favors education, good morals or religion is certain to find in him an earnest supporter.

Parker, Joseph


Joseph PARKER, one of the successful and popular farmers of Pottawattamie County, was born in Lincolnshire, England, June 2, 1851, the son of George and Elizabeth (BEAT) PARKER, who were also natives of England. The mother died when Joseph was fifteen years of age, and four years later he came with an elder brother, Henry, now a prominent citizen of Silver Creek, to America, settling in Mills County, Iowa, where they had relatives and friends. Here our subject was engaged in farming until 1882, when he bought eighty acres of wild prairie land, at $12.75 per acre, in Pottawattamie County, where he has since made his home. He has made many improvements on this place, which show the thrift and prosperity of its owner.
Mr. PARKER was married in Mills County, January 7, 1877, to Miss Adeliza WILSON, who was born in Lincolnshire, England, and had also resided ten years in Mills County before her marriage. She was the daughter of George and Mary (SCHOFIELD) WILSON. The mother died when Mrs. PARKER was eighteen years of age, and the father is still living in Mills County. Mr. and Mrs. PARKER have four children: Lillie May, George William, Annie Eliza, and Joseph Ervin. Politically Mr. PARKER is a Republican, and both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which the former has served three years as Sunday-school Superintendent.

Passmore, Samuel B.


SAMUEL B. PASSMORE was born in West Nottingham Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania, December 13, 1827, son of John W. Passmore, a native of the same county. His grandfather and his great-grandfather, Ellis and George Passmore, were also natives of Pennsylvania. The first Passmore who landed in this country was a Friend, came here with William Penn and settled in Pennsylvania. All his descendants down to the present generation have belonged to the Society of Friends. The wife of John W. and the mother of Samuel B. Passmore was nee Deborah Brown, a native of Chester County, Pennsylvania. She is a daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth (Brown) Brown, also natives of the Keystone State. John W. and Deborah Passmore reared four children, as follows: Ellis P., a resident of Rising Sun, Cecil County, Maryland; Samuel B., whose name heads this article; Elizabeth Ruth, widow of Eliphaz Cheyney, Westchester, Pennsylvania, and Colonel John Andrew Moore Passmore, No. 318 South Forty-second Street, Philadelphia, a prominent resident of that place. He was an officer in the late war and is now manager at Philadelphia for D. Appleton & Co. John W. Passmore died in June 1848 at the age of forty-six years. His relict has been for forty-four years a widow. She is now ninety years of age and resides with her son, Ellis, in Cecil County, Maryland. When she made a visit to her son in Iowa, in 1881, she was in good health and quite active.

Samuel B. Passmore was reared on his father's farm in Chester County, Pennsylvania, and received his education in the public schools. March 28, 1850, he wedded Miss Hannah M. Jackson, a native of that county. Her parents, Joshua and Sarah (Cook) Jackson, were also born in Chester County, Pennsylvania. Mr. Passmore and his wife remained in their native county until May 22, 1855, when they moved to Bureau County, Illinois. There he rented land and lived until 1870, when he came to Wright Township, Pottawattamie County, Iowa, and bought 160 acres of land; this was all wild prairie land. He also bought ten acres of timber, situated three miles from his farm. He was among the early settlers of this part of the country, and at that time deer were frequently seen on his premises or in view of his dwelling. He has since developed his farm and it is now under a good state of cultivation. Maple Grove, as he is pleased to call it, is considered one of the finest farms in Wright Township. Mr. Passmore erected a comfortable one and a half story house, which, surrounded with beautiful evergreens and shrubs, makes an attractive home. In 1874, he purchased 160 acres of prairie land which adjoined his farm, making 320 acres in one body. He has an artificial grove of 13 acres and an orchard comprising three acres. His barn is 44 X 46 feet, with 18 feet posts, and a rock foundation. His farm is divided into five fields for pasture, meadow and grain; and among other improvements made by Mr. Passmore are two windmills and 1,600 rods of osage-orange and 200 rods of willow hedge. He has some fine specimens of stock, both cattle and hogs. Maple Grove is, indeed, a beautiful home, and one of which the owner should be justly proud.

Mr. Passmore and his wife have ten children, viz.: Amor C. of Aurora, Buchanan County, Iowa; Ella Deborah, wife of A.J. Lipp of Wright Township; Orlando C., resides near Linden, Dallas County, Iowa; Ida A., wife of J.C. Morris, Guthrie County, Iowa; Ellwood Lovejoy, at home; Anna Mary, wife of H. Nolta, Dexter, Dallas County, Iowa; Ellis P., in the nursery business at Cloverdale, California; Willie T., Dallas County, Iowa; Emma L., wife of N.G. Brown, Cass County, Iowa; and Lincoln G. at home.

Like his worthy ancestors, Mr. Passmore is a Quaker. He, however, attends the Methodist Episcopal Church of Whipple; has been a trustee for several years and is a liberal supporter of that church. He is one of the leading Republicans of his township, and is chairman of the Republican Central Committee. He was formerly a Free Soiler, and was one of the three in his township who voted that ticket in 1852, the township casting 200 votes. He has served in most of the township offices, is at present Township Trustee, and has always used his influence for the best interests of the community.

Mr. Passmore is past sixty, but bears his age lightly. He is frank and cordial in his manner, with a vein of humor in his makeup, and he is highly esteemed by all who know him. His family are refined and cultured, and are ranked with the best society of the community.


Note to Researchers: Many members of the Passmore family are buried at Whipple Cemetery in Wright Township, established 1878. I walked this cemetery two summers in a row and recorded the following burials:

• Samuel Passmore, departed this life 12th mo., 28th day, 1895, aged 68 yr, 15 da. "at rest."
• Amor C. Passmore, died April 15, 1893, 42 yrs, 1 m, 3 da. "In my father's house are many mansions."
• Ellwood Lovejoy Passmore, son of S.B. and H.M. Passmore, d. Dec 29, 1896, aged 38 yr, 11 m, 16 da. "Sweet rest."
• Addie A.B. Passmore, wife of E.P. Passmore, d. May 7, 1887, aged 25 yr, 4 mo, 21 da. (Buried next to Walter Passmore)

Pearce, Aaron W.


AARON W. PEARCE is one of the well known citizens of Grove Township, having been a resident of Pottawattamie County since 1874. he was born in Richland County, Ohio, September 22 1840. His father, Dennis PEARCE, also a native of Ohio, was a son of Aaron PEARCE, who was of Irish extraction. In politics the PEARCES have been Whigs and Republicans; in religion they have been associated with the Christian church. Dennis PEARCE wedded Mary POLLOCK, a native of Richland County Ohio, by whom he had nine children, four sons and five daughters. Three of the daughters are deceased. Mrs George BOLTON and the subject of this sketch are the only ones living in Pottawattamie County. James H., a twin brother of Aaron , resides in Adair County Iowa.

In 1852 or 1853 the family moved form Ohio to Cedar County Iowa, and were early settlers in that section of the country. They had been there anly a year when the father died, leaving his widow and children to battle for life in a new country. The mother afterward married Mr. H. C. PAXON, who died in 1870. Aaron W. PEARCE received his education in Richland County Ohio, and in Cedar County, Iowa. During the late war, in answer to Lincoln's call for "3000,000 more" he enlisted, in September 1861, in Company E, Eleventh Iowa Infantry. He enlisted under Colonel William Hare of Muscatine, who was some time afterward succeeded by Colonel William Hall, of Davenport. Mr. PEARCE was a brave soldier, and with his regiment took an active part in many of the prominent engagements of the war. He was returned home on a veteran furlough, and after it expired he joined his regiment on the Tennessee River. He was afterward with Sherman before Atlanta. July 22 1864, he was made a prisoner and taken to Andersonville, marching a portion of the way and finishing the journey by rail, arriving at the prison in early August. A portion of the time Mr. PEARCE was at Andersonville there were 30,000 prisoners there in a field of only thirty acres. About one hundred dead soldiers were carried out of the stockade daily. Much has been said and written of the horrors of that prison, but the half has never been told, nor can it be realized by any save those who passed through the terrible ordeal of prison life. About the middle of September Mr. PEARCE was moved from Andersonville to Charleston, South Carolina, remaining there a short time. He was taken to Florence, South Carolina, where he was until February, when the near approach of Sherman's army made another move necessary, and, being placed on the cars, was started toward Wilmington, North Carolina, and on to Goldsboro, where with other prisoners he was paroled and returned toward Wilmington, passing into the Union lines near that place February26, 1865. Leaving Wilmington by steamer for Annapolis, Maryland they went to Baltimore, where he shed his prison rags and put on the blue again. He soon left for St. Louis, but was unable to travel, and was placed in the hospital at Grafton, West Virginia, remaining there one month. Then he again returned home on furlough, and rejoined his regiment the last day of the general review at Washington.

After the war he came back to Cedar County, where he resided for some time. In the spring of 1872, he removed to Polk County, Nebraska, and took up a soldiers' claim of 160 acres. After remaining there sixteen months he came to this county and located in Grove Township. At that time he settled on section 33, near where he now lives. He afterward traded with Thomas Conner for his present farm. It is in section 28 and contains 108 acres, forty of which are in timber. It is well adapted for stock and grain purposes, and is well supplied with all the necessary farm buildings. A good residence situated on a natural building site, surrounded by shade and ornamental trees, makes a comfortable and attractive home. September 11, 1866, Mr. PEARCE married Agnes BOLTON, a native of Cedar County Iowa, and a daughter of William and Sarah (SOUTHERN) BOLTON, natives of Virginia. Her grandfather, Henry BOLTON, was a native of Virginia and a soldier in the Revolutionary war. Mrs. PEARCE was reared and educated in Cedar County. They have seven children, namely: Merrill Edson, Myrtie C., Estella Kate, Dessie Irene, Ethal Grace, Laura Jane, and Mary Ida. Miss Estella is a successful teacher in the schools of Pottawattamie County. Mr. and Mrs. PEARCE lost one child by death, Eva L, at the age of three years. In politics our subject is a republican. For the last ten years he has served as Township clerk. He has served as a member of the school board. He and his wife and three of their daughters are members of the Methodist Protestant Church. Mr. PEARCE is a man of integrity, and is highly respected by all who knew him.

Peck, George W.


GEORGE W. PECK was born in Essex Co, NY, January 18, 1852, a son of Scott and Betsey (CHAMBERLIN) PECK, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of Vermont. His maternal grandfather was of German descent. Mr. Peck's parents were married in Essex County. In 1863 the family moved from New York to Ogle Co., Illinois, where George W. grew to manhood. His education was obtained in the common schools of his native county and in Illinois, and he was early taught industry, economy and honesty. To his early training is due much of his success in after life. In 1875 he started west to make his way in the world, coming with a team to Montgomery Co., Iowa, where he settled. For several seasons he rented land, but afterward purchased 40 acres in Sect 10, Grove Township, Pottawattamie Co. After keeping it two years, he sold it and bought another farm, in company with R.H. BARR. Two years later he sold out to Mr. BARR and bought 120 acres of Mr. T.S. McALHING, which he still owns and on which he lives. It is now under a good state of cultivation, is well fenced and divided into fields. Mr. PECK is extensively engaged in feeding stock, keeping an average of one hundred head of cattle and a large number of hogs.

Mr. PECK was married in Grove Township, January 2, 1876, to Miss Ella BARR. She was born in Massachusetts and lived there until 12 years of age, when she came to Ogle Co., Illinois. She is a lady of intelligence and refinement and was before her marriage a successful teacher. Her father, R.H. BARR, is a resident of Grove Township. Mr. and Mrs. PECK have five children: Walter Frank, Ida E., Ethel Clara, Dorcas Bessie, and an infant son. They lost their second child, Cora, who died at the age of 8 years. Politically Mr. PECK is a Republican. He and his wife are both members of the Evangelical Church, of which he is a trustee. He is an active worker in the church and Sabbath school, being superintendent of the latter. He i also interested in educational matters and anything tending toward the advancement of the community where he resides. Mr. Peck's father is a resident of York, Nebraska. His mother died in York Co., that state, in 1888 at the home of her son where she had gone on a visit with the hope of regaining her health.

Perkins, A. B.


A.B. PERKINS, of section 12, Keg Creek Township, came to this county in the spring of 1872 where he has since resided. He was born in Warren County, Illinois, February 6, 1845, son of D.R. PERKINS, a native of Kentucky and the grandson of D.R. PERKINS SR., a native of Virginia and of Welsh descent. Our subject's mother was Maria LIENRANCE, a native of Virginia and of French ancestry. The father, with his parents, came to Warren County, Illinois where he was married, being one of the first pioneers of that part of Illinois. They reared a family of 11 children. The mother died in the summer of 1878 and the father in March 1888; he was a farmer all his life. In politics he was a Democrat, and both he and his wife were members of the Christian Church.

A.B. PERKINS, the eldest child, was reared on a farm and in 1859 his parents came to Warren County, Iowa, and in 1870 removed to Kansas, where they lived until their death. He lived in Warren County until 1871 when he removed to Sarpy County, Nebraska, and remained two years and then came to Pottawattamie County, Iowa. He first bought sixty-one acres of wild land, on which he lived one year, then purchased 80 aces where his home now is, and later 40 acres north of it. He now owns 120 acres of well-improved land in a body. His residence, which was built in 1887, cost $2,300. "Park Place" is a beautiful home, and Mr. PERKINS and family are surrounded with many of the comforts of life.

He was married in Warren Co, Iowa, February 3, 1870, to Malinda W. WHITED, who was born, reared, and educated in the same county. She was a daughter of Lazarus and Maria (SURBER) WHITED, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of Indiana. The parents were among the first settlers of Warren County, Iowa, and afterward removed to Cass County, where they lived until their death. The mother died in 1870 and the father in 1889. Mr. and Mrs. PERKINS have 8 children: Mary Blair, who was a successful teacher; Beriah B., Daniel R., Bert, Rolla W., Minnie L., Nellie, Maria, Solomon, and Pusey. Mr. PERKINS was formerly a Democrat but is now independent. He is a member of the Farmers' Alliance, and has served as Township Trustee and also as Assessor. The family are members of the Christian Church.

Mr. William PETERS was reared at home until he was twenty-four yers of age, when he also entered the army as Orderly, and served eight years at Berlin and Potsdam. At the age of forty years, he married Margaret ARMSTRONG, a native of Scotland and a daughter of William and Catharine ARMSTRONG, natives of England. Mr. ARMSTRONG was a chemist by profession in England, but on coming to America, he located at Utah, where he now lives, at the age of eighty-eight years. His first wife died early after her marriage, and by his second wife, there are the following eight children: John, Joseph, Wilhelm, James, residing in Utah; Mary, wife of Lewis STUERSBAUGH in Utah; Margaret, the next in order of birth, is the wife of Mr. PETERS; Jane, now Mrs. John WILLIAMS of Utah; and Kate, the wife of Mr. CHADWICK, in Utah. Mrs. PETERS was born in England, November 3, 1843, received a good education and came to America with her parents. In November 1849, Mr. PETERS sailed from London, England, to New Orleans, went up the river to St. Louis, but in a short time, finding business dull there on account of Asiatic cholera, he returned to the ocean and was a sailor along the Atlantic coast of the Americas, until he obtained money enough to go to California. He went to the gold fields, followed mining about five years, and then was one of the first to enter Colorado as a miner and was there three years mining and freighting. Then he spent two years in similar occupations in Montana; next he was employed for over two years freighting with provisions wagons under General ___, of the California Volunteers. He helped to build Fort Douglas in Utah. While he was in Salt Lake, President Lincoln was assassinated, and while operating in Utah, he suffered many hardships and privations. He came thence to Council Bluffs, and four years afterward, namely in 1870, he located upon his present farm, buying forty acres of unbroken prairie land. He built a frame house, broke and fenced the land, planted a fine orchard of one and a half acres, set out shade and ornamental trees, etc. and has made a comfortable residence. His orchard is one of the best in the township and every feature of the premises gives evidence of good taste as well as of much labor. Mr. PETERS deals in a fine grade of cattle and horses, taking special interest in the improvement of livestock. He has added to his first purchase of land until he now has 240 acres of land of first-rate order. He has also upon his premises three running streams of water. In fact, he has one of the finest farms in the county and in it takes great pride.

Politically, Mr. PETERS is a well settled Republican, taking an active interest in the principles of his party. He is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance and of the M.P.S. He has had fifteen children, namely: William and Louis, farmers in Boomer Township; Fred, Nicholas, Bernhart, James and Charles, at home; Maggie, wife of Samuel BATEMAN in Nebraska; Mary Ann who married Mr. BURBRIDGE and resides in Boomer; Jane, wife of LaFayette HATCHER, is a resident of Harrison County; Caroline, Kate and Tilda at home; Dora May, the next, is deceased, as is also Isaac, the youngest son.

Mr. PETERSON was educated in the common schools and also in the high school of Galesburg, Illinois. He went to St. Louis, where at the age of fourteen he entered the employ of R.G. Dun & Co., and has constantly been employed by that company since with the exception of a few months. He started in as a messenger boy, but was soon promoted to the corresponding department, where he remained until he was twenty-one. He then took field work, traveling for the company until 1885. In May of that year, he took charge of the Lincoln, Nebraska, office remaining there until July 1887. In the fall of the same year, he assumed charge of the Omaha corresponding department, from which he came to his present office in April 1888.

He was married April 1, 1879 to Carrie S. KERR, daughter of Mr. And Mrs. John KERR of St. Louis. She was born in Canada, of Scotch origin, June 15, 1857. Their family consists of two children: Eugene Willie Jr., born April 14, 1880; and Winniford M., born March 25, 1883. They lost an infant daughter. Mr. And Mrs. PETERSON are members of the Brethren Church. Politically he is non-partisan. He has purchased a fine property on Park Avenue, Council Bluffs, and also owns property in Lincoln, Nebraska. Mr. PETERSON has made his own way from the bottom, and his success is due to his close application to business and his ability to transact the same. He is today considered one of the ablest men in the employ of R.G. Dun & Co.’s commercial agency, of which business a short sketch is appended.

The Council Bluffs office occupies rooms 205 and 206, Sapp Block, with Mr. PETERSON as manager. This business was established in 1841 by B. Douglas & Co., and in 1850 was transferred to R.G. Dun & Co. It is now considered the oldest and largest mercantile agency in the world. It publishes its reference books in January, March, July and September of each year. The January edition of 1890 contained 1,176,988 names of traders, etc. of the United States and Canada. The average added ratings, new names and changes will aggregate 2,619 for each business day. The office in this city was established in 1883 by W. H. MYERS, who was succeeded by J. H.HUBBARD, then by O.S. STANBRO, the present manager taking charge in 1888. Under his management, the business has prospered and his ability is fully appreciated by the company. Mr. PETERSON is a genial, whole-souled fellow and will make friends wherever he goes.

Henry H. PETERSON, the subject of this sketch, was born on his father’s farm near Portland, Maine, August 18, 1826, and was but five years of age when he went with his father to Rochester, New York, in 1831. He learned farm work in Ohio, and like President Garfield, became a canal-boat driver on the Ohio and Erie canals. He then learned the tanner and currier’s trade, which he followed about five years in Ohio and Indiana. In 1845, he came to Iowa and engaged in prairie breaking in Warren County, and in 1855 he settled in Knox Township, Pottawattamie County, where he was among the early pioneers. Joseph HEADLY came the year previous, and Washington LEWIN, who was the first actual settler came three years before the Petersons. His daughter was born the same night of his arrival, which was the first white child born in Knox Township. Jonathan HALL, Amos WRIGHT, William HENDERSON, Halan GRIFFITH, John CRUTSINGER, Thomas DAVIS and Ira BAKER were all in the township previous to Mr. PETERSON. Our subject settled at Lewis Grove on 120 acres of wild land, where he remained eleven years. He then sold this and bought his present farm of 265 acres. He is a true pioneer of this township, having helped to bring it to its present fertile condition and was for four years Township Supervisor, and was also School Director four years.

He was married July 4, 1852, to Miss Fannie WOOD, daughter of Carson and Mary (TAYLOR) WOOD. The father went from North Carolina and Kentucky to Lawrence, Indiana, and then moved to Montgomery County, same state. His father, John WOODS, was a soldier in the War of the Revolution. Mr. WOODS came to Des Moines, Iowa, about 1842, before the Government made the Des Moines purchase from the Indians, settling in Wapello County, where he lived seven years. He next moved to Green County, and then started to go to Kansas, but was taken sick and died in Missouri. Mr. And Mrs. WOOD were members of the Free Will Baptist Church and were the parents of twelve children, viz.: Pleasant, Fannie, Nancy, John, Barzella T., Mary, Lucinda, Almeda, Thomas J., James M., Carson and William. Mr. And Mrs. PETERSON are the parents of six children who lived to maturity, namely: Fannie J., William C., Charles M., Mary C., Almeda A., and Minnie. Fannie J. married Winfield SCOTT, a farmer of Knox Township and they have five children: Avah M., Harry J., Arthur L., Grover C., and Ada. Charles M. married Gertie ADAMS, and they have one child, Harry L. Mary has been a successful teacher. The name PETERSON was originally spelled PATTERSON, but after the Revolutionary War the members of the family petitioned the Government and it was changed to PETERSON.

When Mrs. Peterson’s grandmother, Fannie JOHNSON, was three years old, during the Revolution, the family were on their way to a fort when they were overtaken by a party of Tories, who, desiring to impress Mr. JOHNSON into their service, took little Fannie upon a horse behind a rider, in order to compel her father by filial ties to follow. In this manner, they rode three days, sending him on ahead to the house of an old farmer, with the intent to murder him; but the intended victim escaped and reached the fort in safety.

After an honorable discharge, he returned to Henry County, Illinois, from whence, in 1867, he came to Council Bluffs, Iowa. Here he was variously employed until the spring of 1874 when he obtained a position n the C.B.&Q. Railroad as a labor and derrick hand. He was soon promoted and continued work as a stone mason for several years. In 1880 he bought his farm of 160 acres, which was then partly improved.

March 7, 1882, Mr. PETERSON married Nellie ANDERSON, daughter of Andrew and Blanda (ROMBECK) ANDERSON. Five children have been born to them, viz.: Hannah Pauline, Robert Henry, Harry Martinus, Lilly Ann and Clara Amelia. Mr. PETERSON and his wife were reared Lutherans and to this faith they still cling. He is a man well informed on all general topics, is kind and affable in his manner, and is highly respected by all who know him. Politically he is a Republican.

In connection with Mr. PETERSON’s family history, it should be further stated that he and his sister, who resides at the old home place in Sweden, are the only surviving members of the family, his father and mother having passed their lives and died in their native land.

He was early attracted to the West and in 1856 they opened a store in Council Bluffs under the firm name of J. M. Phillips & Co., his brother, A. P. PHILLIPS, taking charge of the same until 1858, when he returned East and J.M. PHILLIPS came West to take charge of the interests here; and in 1860 removed his family to Council Bluffs, consisting of his wife, Olive N. PHILLIPS, nee CRESSEY, whom he married in Rowley, Massachusetts, in 1845. Nathan C. PHILLIPS, Mary O. PHILLIPS, and John M. PHILLIPS Jr., are his children. Other children born at Council Bluffs are: Emma C. PHILLIPS, who married F. W. VOSWINKEL and now lives in Holton, Kansas; Ruth M. PHILLIPS, who married H. L. SHEPHERD, and lives at Council Bluffs; Granville D. PHILLIPS, who is unmarried and resides in Seattle, Washington. Of the others, Nathan C. PHILLIPS is married and resides in Council Bluffs; Mary O. PHILLIPS, unmarried and resides with her sister, Mrs. SHEPHERD in the family residence; and John M. PHILLIPS, now engaged in railroad surveys in Washington. In 1860 the firm of J.M. Phillips & Co. started a boot and shoe store in Omaha and put it in charge of Albert TUCKER, an old employe of the firm both in Massachusetts and at Council Bluffs. Afterward he was admitted to partnership in the Omaha house, the firm name being changed to Tucker, Phillips & Co. Some few years later, in 1866 or 1867, there was a general dissolution of partnership between the members of the firm of A.P. Phillips & Co. of Peabody, Massachusetts, engaged in the manufacture of shoes, and J.M. Phillips & Co. of Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Tucker, Phillips & Co. of Omaha, Nebraska, also engaged in the wholesale and retail boot and shoe business. The members of the two first firms at that time were A. P. PHILLIPS, J. M. PHILLIPS and Oscar PHILLIPS, a son of A.P. and nephew of J.M. who had been admitted into the firm and in the Omaha house the three named and Albert TUCKER. In this dissolution, J. M. PHILLIPS sold out his interests in the other places and bought the interests of the others and became sole owner of the Council Bluffs store, and continued it until his death under the name of J. M. PHILLIPS, except for two years when his sons Nathan C. and John M. were in partnership with him, afterward retiring from the firm. He early engaged in the wholesale business and for years had a very extensive trade, but retired from the wholesale business in 1885, owing to advanced age.

He from the first took an active interest in the affairs of the county, uniting with the Republican party in its infancy. He held various positions; was Alderman for two years, member of the Board of County Supervisors four years. He with others organized the Fairview Cemetery Association, the first cemetery in the county, and continued a director of the same until his death. He was troubled with deafness, which caused him to decline several positions offered him. He was one of the organizers of the Council Bluffs Savings Bank and a director of the same for several years.

Henry PIEPER, our subject, came to America in 1867, landing in New York. He came directly to Davenport, Iowa, where he remained seven years engaged in farm work. In 1874 he bought 280 acres of wild land one and a half miles northwest of Minden, which, by hard work and industry, he has converted into a fine, fertile farm. He remained here two years and then came to Minden, where he engaged in running the first livery stable in this city. In 1885 he engaged in the hardware business in company with John P. STUHR, and they carry a large stock of furniture and hardware, having the commodious building for the purpose. Personally, Mr. PIEPER owns the building in which Dr. Wyland's drug store is located, and also the building in which the Bank of Minden is situated. He still owns his original 280 acres, which is now one of the best farms in the township.

Mr. PIEPER was Constable of Minden three years, and for two years was a member of the school board. In 1881 he married Abel ROLHFS, and they have two children: Sophie and Rudolph. Mr. PIEPER deserves much praise for his manly and straightforward course in life, and is a credit to the sturdy German-American people who have done so much to develop this country.

Pierce, O. W.


O.W. PIERCE, one of the enterprising and successful citizens of Washington Township, came to Iowa in 1870 first settling in Mills County. He was born in Windsor County, Vermont, April 22, 1852, son of Albert A., who was a native of New Hampshire, and a son of Alpheus PIERCE who was born in Vermont. The PIERCE family is of Puritan ancestry and one of the ancestors was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. The mother of our subject was Mary (McCOLLOUGH) PIERCE, who was born in New Hampshire, a daughter of John McCOLLOUGH, a native of southwestern Scotland, and of Scotch-Irish descent. Albert A. PIERCE and wife made their home in New York until their death, the mother dying in 1873 at the age of about 38 years, and the father in North Carolina while there on business. He was a tanner and currier by trade but later in life was engaged in traveling solicitor. Politically he was a Republican, and in religion was a member of the Presbyterian Church. The mother was a member of the Episcopal Church. They were the parents of two children: O.W., our subject, and Etta, who died at the age of 26 years.

O.W. PIERCE was raised in Vermont until 13 years of age, when he went to New York City and remained five years. At the age of 18 he came west to Iowa. While in New York City, he was engaged as clerk in a wholesale house, and his education was received mostly by attending night school in that city. In 1870 he settled in Mills County, Anderson Township, Iowa, and was engaged in farming there until 1877 when he purchased 120 acres of wild land in Washington Township, Pottawattamie County, where he has since resided. He now owns 280 acres, 200 of which is in one body, and the remainder is located a half mile north of section 12 and all is under a good state of cultivation. He is engaged in general farming and stock-raising and has some thoroughbred stock of the highest grades. Mr. PIERCE was married in Mills County, Iowa, in 1877 to Miss Frances M. WILSON, a native of that county and daughter of William B. and Ann (WATSON) WILSON. The parents now reside in Mills County, near Hastings. Mrs. PIERCE was a successful teacher before her marriage. They have had six children: Fred Wilson, Edith May, Arthur Winfield, Edna Jenny, Leonard Albert, and William C., who died when a babe. Mrs. PIERCE died February 15, 1889; she was an affectionate wife and mother, and her death was a great loss to the family and her friends. She was reared in and was for several years connected with the Methodist Church. Politically Mr. PIERCE is a Republican and has served as Township Clerk and Assessor with credit to himself and the best interests of the township.

Thomas A., our subject, by the death of his father, at the tender age of twelve years, was thrown upon his own resources. First he was chore boy in a store, next he was employed by a gardener, and finally he settled on the land where he now resides January 15, 1880, of which forty or fifty acres were improved, and on which was a small frame house. Here Mr. PILLING has since resided; he now owns 200 acres of land, all in a body, and which is well improved. He is engaged in farming and general stock raising.

In his political principles, Mr. PILLING is a Democrat. He has served as a member of the School Board with credit to himself and the township. Although but a young man, he has gained a good position in the county, socially, politically, and financially, and is well informed on general topics, frank and cordial in manner, and a popular citizen. He was married December 24, 1879, to Miss Coquella C. GARNER, a daughter of William and Sarah GARNER. Mr. GARNER is one of the pioneer and well-known citizens of Pottawattamie County. Mr. And Mrs. PILLING have three children: Carl Ashton, Guy Thomas, and Maggie. The great loss of Mr. Pilling's life was the death of his wife, February 7, 1887.

CHARLES H. PINNEY, M.D., of Council Bluffs, first established his practice in Omaha, March 1866, and in Council Bluffs, in 1875. He was born in Elyria, Lorain County, Ohio, August 30, 1842. His father, Hurlbert PINNEY, was born near Hartford, Connecticut, January 19, 1807. Originally three brothers came from Scotland long before the Revolution, and participated in our war for independence. One of them, John PINNEY, was the great-grandfather of our subject. The Doctor's grandfather was also named John PINNEY. There are numerous descendants of this name, many of whom reside at Farmington and Windsor, Connecticut. Hurlbert H. PINNEY married Malina ABBEY, a native of Herkimer, Herkimer County, New York. In April 1832, he went to Lorain County, Ohio, when that state was still a part of the Northwest Territory, in company with his younger and only brother, Albert, their father having died from the effects of a horse falling upon him while they were small boys. Three married sisters remained in Connecticut.

Mr. H.H. PINNEY married his wife, who had moved to Lorain County, Ohio, from the State of New York, with her parents. They had six children, four sons and two daughters, all of whom are still living, namely: Carrie M., wife of Hon. R.G. HORR, prominent statesman of Michigan, was born December 7, 1834; Laura M., born September 3, 1837, is the wife of Rev. Samuel L. ALEXANDER, now of Council Bluffs; Allen W., a fruit grower near Council Bluffs, was born August 21, 1839; the next in order of birth was Charles H., whose name heads this biographical sketch, born August 30, 1842; Anson E., born November 4, 1847, is a hardware merchant in Ithaca, Michigan; John H., born January 26, 1850, now resides near Akron, Nebraska, engaged in farming and stock raising. The Doctor's parents are now living at East Saginaw, Michigan.

Dr. PINNEY was brought up on the home farm until the age of 14 when he entered the Clarkson (Michigan) Academy, and afterward entered the scientific department of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, having in view ultimately a medical education at that university; and on graduating in the medical department in March 1864, and satisfying his first ambition, he entered the army as a Surgeon in the 9th Ohio Cavalry, joining his regiment at Decatur, Alabama, and serving until the close of the War. That regiment participated in the engagement at Decatur with Chalmers and Wheeler's Cavalry; then it did scouting duty until July 10, 1864; next it was transferred to the army of General ROUSSEAU and was taken on a raid through central Alabama, cutting railroads, etc., and then to Rome and Marietta, Georgia, and took part in the siege of Atlanta, and marched to the sea in Sherman's army, in the 3d Cavalry Division, 3d Brigade, under Kilpatrick. It returned with Sherman through the Carolinas, driving Wheeler and Hampton from Bentonville to Raleigh. The regiment was engaged in many hard fights, both on the march to the sea and through the Carolinas. It participated in the very last battle of the war east of the Mississippi, which was after the surrender of Joseph E. JOHNSTON and on New Hope Creek, near Chapel Hill, North Carolina. In that engagement, Adjutant General JENKINS was mortally wounded. Dr. Pinney's regiment was retained in the South to aid in the reconstruction of the State and assisted the Provisional Governor of North Carolina in this work, rendezvousing at Concord. He was mustered out in September 1865 at Camp Dennison, Ohio.

After visiting his old home in Ohio and also his uncle in Michigan, with whom he had studied medicine, he went in the fall of 1865 to Philadelphia and continued his studies in the medical department of the University of Pennsylvania, graduating there the next spring. He then came West to locate in Omaha and "grow up with the town." In compliance with his wife's desire, he afterward transferred his residence to Council Bluffs, where he also has a fine practice. He was married September 15, 1870, to Miss Ella O. PUSEY, daughter of the Hon. William H.M. PUSEY, born in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and they have had three sons and a daughter: Hurlbert H., Lucile, and Frank L. Their eldest child, William Henry, died at the age of four years.

On account of his superior qualifications, which he acquired by his surgical practice in the army, he has been very successful as a practitioner. He has been medical examiner and medical referee for the Mutual Life Insurance Company of New York, since 1880. He is a member of the Council Bluffs Medical Society, of which he has been President, and is a member of the State Medical Society, and the Medical Society of Missouri Valley, and is the local surgeon for the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway Company. He is one of the leading physicians and surgeons of western Iowa.

M.V. PLANK, a successful farmer of Pottawattamie Co., was born in Lewis County,, NY, November 28, 1823, son of HENRY PLANK, a native of the Mohawk Valley and a soldier in the War of 1812. He was a son of JOSIAH PLANK, a Revolutionary soldier. Our subject's mother was MARGARET C. (VANINGEN) PLANK, a native of New York and daughter of JOSEPH VANINGEN, a native of Holland. The parents lived in New York until their death. The father was a farmer all his life and in his religious relations was a member of the Presbyterian Church.

M.V. PLANK was reared on a farm in Lewis Co. until his 18th year, when he served an apprenticeship at the carpenter and joiner's trade and as a stair builder for three years. In 1857, he came to Lyons, Clinton Co., Iowa, where he was engaged at his trade two years. He then moved to Iola, Allen Co., Kansas, but on account of the famine that yar and also of the breaking out of the War, he went to Whiteside Co., Illinois, near Morrison; in 1866 he rturned to Clinton Co., Iowa; in 1867 he removed to Delaware Co.; and in 1872 he went to Sioux City, Iowa, where he made his home until 1875. That city was then a small village, and in 1872 he was elected a Master Mechanic at Fort Buford, which position he filled with credit. In 1875 he came to his present farm of 80 acres in Belknap Township.

He was married October 18, 1846, in Lewis Co., NY, to Miss H.A. WITHERBEE, who was born in Otsego Co., NY, and was reared and educated at Watertown, Jefferson Co. She was a successful and popular teacher before her marriage, and while in Kansas held the position of Principal in a high school. The was the daughter of DAVID and ELIZA (ST. CLAIR) WITHERBEE, the former a native of Manchester, Vermont, and the latter of Westminster, same state, and a daughter of General Arthur St. Clair of Revolutionary fame. The mother was a member of the Universalist Church and the father of the Episcopal. They lived in New York until their death.

Mr. and Mrs. Plank have six children: Zelia Eliza, wife of David Vanalstine of Belknap Township; W.J., a carpenter and contractor of Cora Valley, Oregon; Hattie, wife of George L. Boals of Dakota County, Nebraska; Ida Belle and Ada N., twins, the former the wife of J.A. Fletcher of Forrestville, Colorado, and the latter the wife of Marion Barton of Valley Township, Pottawattamie Co., Iowa; Iona L., wife of B.S. Leader of Belknap Township. They lost a babe, William L., when 17 months old in New York.

Politically Mr. Plank is a Republican and religiously an Adventist. Mrs. Plank is an ordained minister of the Adventist Church and has preached at Sioux City, Yankton, and Omaha. she is a faithful and zealous worker in this county for her Master, and has performed the marriage ceremony of all her children but one. The children are all well married and have left their parental home, and Mr. and Mrs. Plank now feel very lonely, but they are reconciled to their lot.

Plumb, George


GEORGE PLUMB, a popular citizen of Balknap Twp, was birn in Lincolnshire, England, May 20, 1842, son of WILLIAM and SARAH (GREY) PLUMB, who were also natives of England. The father was born in February 1811 and died in his native country May 12, 1884; the mother was born February 25, 1821. They reared a family of 6 children, 5 sons and 1 daughter. GEORGE PLUMB, our subject, was reared on a farm in England and also for 3 years worked in the dock-yard at Chatham. In 1871 he sailed from Liverpool to New York and then went to Mills Co, Iowa, where his two brothers, VALENTINE and FRANK PLUMB, then resided. He remained in that county until 1881 when he came to his present farm in Pottawattamie Co. Politically Mr. PLUMB is a Republican, and he has also served three years as a member of the School Board. He and his wife are members of th Methodist Episcopal Church. He was married in Lincolnshire, England, May 14, 1967, to Miss ANN COY, who was born in that country, daughter of THOMAS and ANN (THURBY) COY, both natives of England. Mr and Mrs PLUMB have 4 sons: Thomas William who was born in England is now farming for himself; Henry Reloy, Arthur Wesley and Walter Howard.

Henry F. PLUMER, our subject, was reared to farm life and received his limited education in the schools of Germany and this country, but by close application, he has secured a practical education. When he was twelve years of age, he came to America with his parents and since that time he has made his home in Missouri and Iowa. When he was about twenty-one years of age, he commenced to work for himself.

Mr. PLUMER was married August 20, 1849, to Miss Sophia KINNING, who was born in Mercer County, Ohio, October 12, 1835, the daughter of John H. and Mary (MEYER) KIDDING, natives of Hanover, Germany, who came to America in 1829. The mother died in Missouri about the year 1843. They had three children: Henry, who died in the army at Jefferson Barracks, after having served two years; Sophia, and Augusta.

After their marriage, Mr. And Mrs. PLUMER located in Missouri for two years, after which they came to Iowa, locating in Pottawattamie County. They made a purchase of a claim from a man named HUSTON for $250, who had made fine improvements, and as soon as the land came into market, he purchased it from the Government. Mr. PLUMER made a pre-emption of 160 acres on section 25, Lewis Township, where he erected a small log house, 18 X 20 feet, in which he made his home for some time. In 1861 he erected a frame residence 18 X 38 feet, and in 1880 built an addition. He has a pleasant home surrounded with shade and ornamental trees, and everything bespeaks thrift, energy and prosperity. He has added to his first purchase until he now owns 1,200 acres of as good land as lies in Pottawattamie County, Lewis Township and Keg Creek, and he also has 840 acres in Woodbury County, Bremner Township, and 1,280 acres in Ellis County, Kansas. He has always devoted himself to farming and stock-raising, buying, shipping, etc., in which he deals quite extensively. In 1870 he erected the Crystal Mills of Council Bluffs, which he disposed of to Thomas EVANS. Mr. PLUMER is a good example of what a man can accomplish who starts with nothing but pluck and energy, as he started with comparatively nothing, but by good management amassed a handsome competency. He has been a public benefactor in various ways to the community at large. They are worthy members of the Evangelical Church, and donated the land to the society upon which to build the church, and also assisted largely in its construction. Politically Mr. PLUMER is a Democrat and is a strong advocate of law and order, and strives to promote the best interests of the community in general. Mr. And Mrs. PLUMER have twelve children living, namely: Mary J., wife of Fred SPETMAN of Omaha, Nebraska; John, residing at Council Bluffs; William, of Woodbury County, Iowa; Emeline, wife of Fred LUDICK of Woodbury County; Josephine at home; Ferdinand, of Woodbury County; Edward at home; Cornelius; Oscar; Augusta, deceased; Thomas, at home; Laura, Henry, and an infant daughter, deceased. Mr. PLUMER has given quite generously to his children as they grew to manhood and womanhood, helping them to make a start for themselves in life.

Anderson PLUMMER was reared on a farm and received his education in the primitive log schoolhouse of that period. At the age of fifteen, he entered upon a three years’ apprenticeship to the carpenter’s trade, working for his board and clothes. He afterward worked for wages two years in Hamilton County, Ohio. In 1858 he removed from Ohio to Benton County, Iowa, where he worked at his trade until 1875. In that year, he came to Pottawattamie County, and located three miles northwest of Avoca, where he remained until 1880. Then he bought his present farm of John LEDERICK. This farm contains 120 acres, is divided into four fields, and is well fenced. A substantial frame house, surrounded by shade and ornamental trees and suitable out-buildings for grain and stock, are among the improvements on this place. Mr. PLUMMER has done much of the fencing and other improvements since his purchase of the farm.

At the age of twenty-five, he was married in Benton County, Iowa, to Miss Mary CONLEY, a native of Indiana and a lady of intelligence. She is the daughter of Michael and Mary CONLEY. Mr. And Mrs. PLUMMER have had three children: Charlie, who was born in October 1878; Celathiel, who died at the age of two and a half years; and Mary, who died when she was one year old.

Mr. PLUMMER is a man well informed on general topics, is frank and cordial in his manner, and is regarded as one of the leading citizens in the community in which he resides. He is a member of the Christian Church and is an earnest Sabbath-school worker. Politically he is a Republican.

William F., our subject, passed his youth in Henry County, assisting at farm work. April 6, 1854, he started for California with an ox team, crossing the Missouri River at Countyl Bluffs when there was only one log cabin where the boat landed at Omaha. At the end of four months, he reached Shasta County, California, where he remained until December 5, 1856, when he returned home via the Isthmus of Panama, to New York, and thence to Henry County, Iowa. In the fall of 1870 he came to Pottawattamie County and purchased 200 acres of partially improved land, which he has since converted into one of the best improved farms in the township. He has since added to this tract until he now has 280 acres. He has a grove and orchard of four acres, and everything about the farm shows the thrift and prosperity of the proprietor.

Politically Mr. PLUNKET is a Democrat, and has served as Township Trustee and as a member of the school board, serving with credit to himself and the best interests of the people. He is a man 57 years of age, but bears his years lightly; he is frank and cordial in his manner. He has lived fifty years in Iowa, and has witnessed the growth and prosperity of this part of the county and has shared in its development. He is numbered, socially, financially and politically, among the solid men of the township. He was married in Henry County, October 7, 1858, to Miss Nancy Ann CAUGHEY, a native of Pennsylvania and the daughter of Josiah and Elmira (MALONE) CAUGHEY, both natives of Pennsylvania. Mr. And Mrs. PLUNKET have seven children living, viz.: John F., who lives adjoining his father; Charles C., a physician at Anita, Cass County, Iowa; Edward, a machinist at Des Moines; William O., Albert F., at home; Ira Z. and Casper A. They lost their second child, Samuel, by death at the age of two years.

Mr. POLAND was married in 1849 in Hampshire County, Virginia, to Mary A. McSHANE, daughter of John McSHANE. She was born in Maryland, March 9, 1821, and had a similar experience with her husband, her parents having been poor and she was brought up by strangers. They are the parents of four children, viz.: Elizabeth E., now the wife of M.T. BAKER, a farmer of Washington County, Iowa, and they have four children, Jacob U., Viola, Cora A. and Elma; Amos, a farmer of Knox Township, married Mary STEWARD and they have two children, Julia E. and Anna B.; Mary J., married William GIBBONS, a farmer of Woodbury County, Iowa, and they have four children, Eva B., George E., Amos C. and Cleveland; Dennis married Annie GARTHWAITE and is now a farmer on the old home place, and they have three children, George E., Grant and Amos C. The granddaughter, Julia E., married William MEREDITH, a farmer of Knox Township, and they have one child, Jane H. Thus, Mr. And Mrs. POLAND have thirteen grandchildren and one great-grandchild. They have both been life-long members of the United Brethren Church, in which Mr. POLAND has held the office of class leader, trustee, and Sunday school Superintendent for many years. In his political views he is a Republican and has been School Director and Supervisor of his township.

Mr. POLAND is a self-made man, as his early days were clouded with poverty, and in early youth, he was left to the care of strangers with all the vicissitudes of such dependency, and by a straightforward course and an honest purpose, he has steadily risen until he now owns a good farm, and has given his children a good home. He has always been a religious and moral man, and deserves the respect of all his descendants for the good example he has set them, in which he has been assisted by his faithful wife; together they have borne the burden, and together they will reap the reward of the well-doer. Mr. POLAND had a cancer cured on his nose, which bid fair to end his life. The regular doctors failed to cure it, and a friend recommended him to a farmer who had cured several cancers. Mr. POLAND called to see him, and used his medicine, which in time cured him completely. He bought the prescription, and has since treated others successfully.

Isaac H. POWELL, our subject, was born December 23, 1832, in Oswego County, New York, and learned farming in early life. He was a boy of 12 years when he came with his father to Illinois and married, in Boone County, Illinois, Sarah WALKER, daughter of Thomas and Sarah (SMITH) WALKER. Mr. WALKER was an old settler in Boone County from Chenango County, New York, and of an old American family. He came to Boone County in 1840, being one of the active pioneers there. He is yet living on his farm, at the age of 82 years. He had seven children: Hannah, Cornelia Sarah, Phoebe, Ransome, Edgar, Nimrod and Frank. Mr. And Mrs. POWELL have six children: Lindon, Livingston, Frank, Emma, Betsy and Orselia. After marriage, Mr. POWELL settled down upon a farm in Boone County, Illinois, and all his children were born there, except the youngest son. In 1871 he came to Pottawattamie County, Iowa, and settled upon his present place, then consisting of forty acres of wild land, and which, by thrift and energy, he has converted into a fine and fruitful farm. To this he has added until he now owns 321 acres of fine land.

Mr. POWELL has been respected by his fellow citizens and taken an active interest in the cause of education, and has been school director, constable, and road supervisor. He is one of our substantial pioneer citizens, who has helped to make his town and county what is now one of the best in the state. He stands deservedly high for his integrity of character and as a self-made man, and by hard labor made his property. His word may well be said to be as good as his bond. He has four children married, and ten grandchildren. The entire family merits the respect of all who know them for their sterling worth. The daughter, Emma, married J. C. SEARS, a farmer in Valley Township and they have six children, Horace, Harry, Arthur, Flora, Orselia and Beryl. Bettie married B.T. STEPHENSON a farmer in Valley Township, and they have three children, William, Kittie and Cornelia; Livingston, who is a farmer in Valley Township, married Addie FRAZIER and they have one child, Frances. Orselia married Henry SEWARD also a farmer of Valley Township.

Pratt, C. F.


C. F. PRATT, of Crescent City, was born in Abbeville co, South Carolina, October 19, 1824, son of WILLIAM and MARTHA (MURDOCH) PRATT. His mother was born July 31, 1800 and his father September 27, 1798, both being descendants of English, Irish and Welsh ancestry. Mr. PRATT's grandfather came to America at the age of 16 years, in 1776, at the commencement of the Revolutionary war, first locating in Newberry Co, South Carolina and engaging in a distillery. He married ELIZABETH DAVENPORT, a native of the same county, and they moved to Abbeville where they spent the remainder of their days with their son. WILLIAM PRATT received a good education, his father being a teacher, and married GABRIELLA CALLAHAN, who was born in Abbeville Co, July 31, 1824, and then left his parental home, in his 21st year, 1845, locating in Chatooga Co, Georgia. There he purchased 160 acres of land for which he paid $800; 70 acres of this tract had been cultivated by an old Cherokee Indian named OVERTAKER. The improvements, therefore, were few and meager. Here Mr Pratt commenced raising grain, fruit and cotton, and also his own domestic animals and continued there until 1855 when he sold the place for $1,600 and bought another two miles distant for $800. On that place there were 40 acres cleared. He cleared 25 acres more, put up a log house and barns, and made many other improvements. He added to it by purchase until he finally had 370 acres of good farming land. Then in September 1861, he enlisted in the military service, joining Company F, 35th Georgia Volunteer Infantry, under General Holmes, and was engaged in many hard-fought battles, as those of Fair Oaks, Virginia, the Wilderness, Seven Days' fight in front of Richmond between Lee and McClellan, etc. In 1862 he enjoyed a furlough, being disabled and remained at home something more than a year. In 1863 he returned to service under General Early whose forces scoured the Shenandoah Valley as far as Winchester. In February 1865, he procured another furlough home, and before its term expired, the war closed. He was in most of the hottest battles in Virginia during the four years of the war, but was not wounded. April 12, 1869, he sold his farm already described, and started for Utah, by way of Chattanooga, Memphis, St Louis, etc, by rail and water; and on arriving at Omaha, May 1, he stopped here until July, doing odd jobs. Then he rented a farm of 80 acres in Rockford Twp, Pottawattamie Co, of which 40 acres were broken. After following agricultural pursuits there for a year, he purchased a saw-mill and ran it for 10 years. June 26, 1876, he moved the mill to Crescent city and ran it two years. Then he sold it to his sons and bought his present farm of 60 acres within the limits of Crescent City, which had been improved some, having a log house upon it. Nearly all the improvements there at the present day are the product of his own labor -- a good residence, out-buildings, etc. It is indeed a well furnished and comfortable home. Mr. Pratt is a high principled Democrat, sympathizing with the so-called "Greenback" movement, and liberal in his heart toward all parties. In local elections he is of course independent, voting for the best man, regardless of party. He was Justice of the Peace 8 years in Georgia, two terms in Rockford Twp, and two in Crescent Twp. He is a member of Mount Hickory Lodge, No. 133 F.&A.M. of Georgia, esteeming this order far above all other organizations. He has also been the second officer of the Grange for a number of years and has held other offices. He also belongs to the Crescent M.P. Society, this lodge being the oldest of the kind in the state. In this he has officiated as President, vice-president, etc. ever since its foundation. He is also a member of the Farmers Alliance. He and his wife were Baptists in Georgia, both being baptized on the same day by the same minister; they are now members of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Mr. and Mrs. Pratt are the parents of 9 children: John W. and Nancy E. born in Chattooga Co, Georgia, June 2, 1846; John W. resides in Harrison County, Iowa; Nancy E. is the wife of E.L. McKinney in Jackson Co, Indian Territory; James A., born September 14, 1849, in Chattooga Co, Georgia, now residing in Crescent City; S.V. was born April 10, 1852, in Georgia and also resides in Crescent Township; Martha Ann born August 12, 1853 in Chattooga Co, died July 21, 1871; Emma C. was born also in that county April 11, 1855 and now is the wife of C.D. Watts of Sherman Co, Kansas; Phoebe J., born also in Chattooga Co, August 11, 1857, is the wife of J.M. BOYD in Crescent City; Charles F., born November 10, 1861, in Chattooga Co, and resides at home; Leona, born also in Chattooga Co, February 28, 1864, wife of CLEMENT HOUGH at Crescent City. Mr. and Mrs. Pratt are the grandparents of 21 children, all living. Mrs. Pratt is of English and Irish descent; was born in Abbeville Co, South Carolina, daughter of JOHN and NANCY (STEVENSON) CALLAHAN, was brought up as a farmer's daughter, within four miles of where she was married to Mr. Pratt, July 2, 1845. She is the fifth in order of birth in a family of 23 children, and the daughter of her father's second wife. All those children grew up and married during their father's lifetime. Mrs. Pratt is now aged 67 years.

In 1852, Mr. Alexander R. PRENTICE married Miss Agnes KIRKWOOD, who was born August 20, 1832. In 1857 he came to America with family and friends, landed in New York City, April 17, and came direct to Pottawattamie County by way of Pittsburg and the rivers, landing at Florence, Nebraska, May 22, 1857, on a dark and stormy night. The Captain charged them an outrageous price for remaining on the boat until morning. Early in the morning, Mr. PRENTICE’s goods and family were set upon the bank until he could find a place for them. He crossed the rough prairie over to Mr. KIRKWOOD’s, his brother-in-law, and made arrangements for settling temporarily. He followed the trade of carpentering, which he had learned in the old country, and this vocation he has pursued ever since, more or less, in connection with farming. His first purchase of property was a house and lots in Crescent City, from the mother of James GORDING.

By the way, this GORDING went to Pike’s Peak, “struck it rich,” but not being able to stand prosperity, became dissipated and was finally hanged. The money that was paid his mother for the property mentioned was used by her in attendance at his trial.

After remaining in the village of Crescent six years, Mr. PRENTICE sold out house and lots and bought forty acres of wild, rough land of a Mr. DUNSMORE. On this place he built a house 40 X 50 feet, barns, sheds, a brick milk-house, etc., planted a fine orchard and made many other valuable improvements. He has added to his first purchase until he now has a fine farm of 280 acres, on sections 25, 27, 23, and 26. Eighty acrs is in cultivation, while the rest is hay, pasture and timber land. His residence, a neat and comfortable house, is on a tract of 140 acres on section 26.

Mr. PRENTICE is a Republican on national questions and has been a delegate to many State and county conventions; he has been a member of the Good Templars order for twenty-five years, holding the various offices of the lodge; and he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Crescent City, of which society he has been Recording Secretary for three years. He has been a reporter for Crescent Township to the State Agricultural Society for five years. During the War, he enlisted in Company A, 29th Iowa Volunteer Infantry, but was discharged when it was discovered that the retina of his right eye had been injured; the injury had been inflicted by the cut of a chisel. He received a certificate of his citizenship by proof of his disposition to serve his country in the War, and proving an honorable discharge.

His children are: Margaret R., wife of Isaac M. BARRETT, born in Scotland, February 12, 1855, and resides in Fresno, California; Agnes, born also in Scotland, March 27, 1853, is now the wife of Charles W. CALDWELL and resides in Council Bluffs; Mary, born in this county, June 7, 1857, resides in Missouri Valley, Iowa; Adam A., born November 14, 1859, is a farmer on section 25, on land belonging to his father; Isabella C., born April 8, 1862, is the wife of Charles W. ATWOOD of Council Bluffs; Robert L., born November 3, 1864, resides on a farm on section 25.

Mr. PRICE is a Republican in his politics, and is liberal, both in spirit and in practically aiding in the advancement of the interests of his community. He was married in 1875 to Miss Marion, daughter of James PERKS, an old settler of Macedonia Township, and their children are: Arthur Leon, James Martin, Edith May and Roy.

Putnam, A. D.


A.D. PUTNAM, Commander of Robert Provard Post No. 414, G.A.R. of Carson, is one of the early settlers and representative citizens of Center Township, Pottawattamie County, Iowa. He was born in New Hampshire, August 19, 1834, a great nephew of the illustrious Israel PUTNAM of Revolutionary fame. His parents, George PUTNAM and nee Elizabeth PERKINS, the former a native of Haverhill, Massachusetts and the latter of New Hampshire, reared nine children, the subject of this sketch being the oldest. When he was 11 years old, the family removed to Vermont, where he lived on a farm and grew to manhood. He received his education in the public schools. Later he engaged in teaching and became a prominent and successful educator. In 1852 he came West and settled in Lee County, Illinois where he remained until the war broke out.

In September 1861, at the time President Lincoln called for "300,000 more," he enlisted in Fremont's Rangers, or body guards for General Fremont. But when General Fremont was removed from his command, the men were assigned to the Third Missouri Cavalry. This was one of the noted Missouri cavalry regiments and the record it made was an honorable one. Mr. PUTNAM participated in the battles of Pea