J. M. STEPHENSON, farmer, section 14, Benton Township, was born in Greene County, Pennsylvania, May 7, 1834, the eldest son of five children of James and Hannah (MINER) STEPHENSON. He was reared on a farm and eductated in the common schools.

He was married January 14, 1864, to Mary DULANY, of Greene County, daughter of Dennis and Elizabeth DULANY. He engaged in farming in his native county until 1867, then came to Ringgold County and settled upon a portion of his present farm, in Benton Township. His first purchase was 100 acres of land. The improvements consisted of a log cabin, and thirty-five acres, broken and fenced. He has since added to his original purchase until he owns 1,150 acres of the best soil to be found in the county, and it was well cultivated and well improved. He is engaged in stock-raising and feeding, usually keeping from 200 to 300 head of cattle. He has a good residence, modern style and well-furnished, a corn barn, out-buildings for stock, and everything about the premises betokens the thrift and enterprise of the owner.

Mr. and Mrs. STEPHENSON have two children - James Allen and Myrtle J.

Mr. STEPHENS has served creditably in nearly all township offices; is a worthy member of the Missionary Baptist church, and politically is a Democrat. He has always taken an active interest in the advancement of education and religion in his community, and is a liberal supporter of any worthy enterprise. Postoffice, Delphos.

SOURCES:
Biography & Historical Record of Ringgold County, Iowa, Pp. 284-85, 1887.

Transcription by Sharon R. Becker, January of 2009

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