The subject of this sketch was born in Duchess County, New York, in 1807, and was a son of Abraham and Martha Van Duzer. He received a common school education, after which he learned the tanner's trade, and came west in 1836. After his arrival in Iowa he engaged in farming, having entered a quarter section of Government land near the village of Le Claire. Le made all the improvements on the farm and lived there until his death. He was a gentleman of the old school, and highly respected during his lifetime. He was united in marriage to Miss Louisa A. Young, daughter of Peter and Martha (Reed) Young, in 1837, and his marriage is said to have been the first in Scott County. To this union two children were born: Elizabeth R. and James M. Van Duzer.
Mrs. Van Duzer is a lady of good business abilty, and is noted for being kind and charitable to those who deserve her benevolence. She now makes her home with her daughter, and is enjoying a quiet old age. Mr. Van Duzer died in 1882.
BIOGRAPHIES