SucessS in any calling is an indication ofclose application,industry few which offer better opportunities than does that of the law for the display of character, sterling worth and ability. To the lawyer are intrusted matters of confidence involving property, reputation and even life itself, and upon his skill, loyalty and ability the rich and the poor alike depend.
John M. Helmick, a well-known member of the bar, was born January 26, 1852, on his father's farm near Columbus City, Iowa. His father, Samuel K. Helmick, was a native of Urbana, Ohio, and his mother, Mary A., née Worthington, was born at Baltimore, Maryland.
Mr. Helmick received his early education in the district schools and then entered the State University of Iowa, at which institution he received a liberal education, graduating from the academic department in 1880 with the degree of bachelor of arts, and from the law department in 1881 with the degree of bachelor of laws. The honorary degree of master of arts was conferred on him in 1884. The Alumni Association of this institution elected him poet for the year 1882, in response to which he read before the annual meeting for that year a poem entitled “Liberty,” which was published in the “Northwestern News” of Davenport, July 20, 1882. After his admission to the bar in 1881 Mr. Helmick located in Davenport, where he has ever since remained in the active practice of his profession. He has always given his entire time to this business, and as a result has steadily grown into a lucrative practice and gained the esteem of his clients and a large circle of friends.
On November 16, 1887, Mr. Helmick was married to Miss Mae E. Streeper, a lady of marked culture and refinement, the daughter of Mr. C. S. Streeper, who was at one time extensively engaged in the drygoods business in Davenport. Mrs. Helmick received her early education in the public schools of Davenport, and her liberal schooling, belles-lettres and fine arts at Cornell University, Iowa. Mr. Helmick is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, the Masonic Fraternity and the Sons of Temperance, and in politics is a Republican.
BIOGRAPHIES