Davenport and Scott Co. History 1910 Vol II Bios

Scott Co, Iowa - IAGenWeb Project

Madison J. Smith From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Smith, Grandon, Brown, Johnson, Ritch.
Madison J. Smith, better known as Joe Smith, who in the eighty-second year of his life is now living retired, is numbered among the oldest settlers of this district, having arrived in Scott county in 1835, only three years after the Black Hawk war, when the country was still inhabited by large bands of Indians and the work of progress and improvement had but just begun.
Born in Greene county, Pennsylvania, on the 24th June, 1827, he is a son of Eli H. and Mary Ann (Grandon) Smith, natives of New Jersey and Greene county, Pennsylvania, respectively. As early as 1835 the father left his native state and, making his way down the Ohio river and up the Mississippi, landed at Le Claire on the 5th of April, being among the earliest settlers to take up their abode in this district. There were three hundred red men in camp at the time of his arrival and it was necessary for the family to live in an Indian tent until a cabin could be erected. He took up a farm of one hundred and sixty acres, a portion of which is now in the possession of our subject, and remained thereon until after the death of his wife, when he went to live with his son in North English. He was a farmer by occupation and also operated a stone quarry there for a number of years, her remains being laid to rest in Le Claire. In their family were thirteen children, namely: Matilda, Mahaly, Elizabeth, Susan, Cynthia, Jane, Madison J., Ira, John, Nathan, Eli, Martin and Mary. Of this number only five still survive, as follows: Madison J., of this review; Ira, residing in Scott county; Eli, a resident of Iowa county; Martin, of Missouri; and Mary.
Madison J. Smith was a little lad of seven years when he came with his parents to Iowa and here shared with the other members of the family the privations and hardships incident to frontier life. As there were no schools in the district at that time, what education he received was obtained by reading and studying at night, while during the daytime he assisted in the arduous and difficult work of developing and improving a new farm. He continued to give his father the benefit of his aid until fifteen years of age, when he began working of river boats and was thus engaged until the outbreak of the Mexican war.
In the fall of 1846 Mr. Smith enlisted from Rock Island as a member of Company F, Fourteenth Illinois Infantry, and was first stationed at Jefferson Barracks for about three months. He then went to New Orleans and thence to Mexico, where he participated in all of the battles from Buena Vista to Vera Cruz. He was wounded several times and at the battle of Contreras, when General LeBega was captured, he received a bullet shot through his head. He was believed to be dead but later recovered and rejoined his regiment. He was detailed as second lieutenant in charge of a number of men engaged in clearing roads, etc. After a most creditable military record he was honorably discharged in New Orleans in the fall of 1848.
He returned home and was employed on the river for a while. He then went to DeKalb county, Illinois, where he invested in a small farm of thirty-two and a half acres. He was there married to Miss Sarah Jane Brown, on the 28th of December, 1849, who was a daughter of Eben Brown. After residing in that county for about four years, Mr. Smith sold his property and removed to Grundy county, Iowa, where he purchased one hundred and twenty acres of raw land from the government, upon which he erected a dwelling and to the development and cultivation of which he directed his energies, at the same time engaged to some extent in the practice of medicine. He had previously pursued a medical course at Richardson College, St. Charles, Illinois, under the direction of Dr. Richards, from which institution he was graduated after three years. He then entered the Eclectic Institute of Cincinnati, Ohio, from which he was also graduated after taking a course in medicine and surgery. He has his diploma from both institutions, which is rather remarkable from the fact that he had enjoyed no educational advantages whatever in his early life, all knowledge being gained through his own efforts entirely.
After residing in Grundy county, Illinois, for about eight years Mr. Smith sold his farm and went to Butler county, Iowa, where he invested in one hundred and twenty-eight acres of partially improved land, upon which he made his home for four years, dividing his time between the occupation of farming and the practice of his profession. Later he again sold out and removed to Iowa county, Iowa, where he purchased one hundred and forty acres of land drawn from the active practice of medicine after leaving Iowa county, and after his arrival in Scott county was engaged in operating steamboats and rafts on the river for a number of years, continuing to make his home in Le Claire to the present time.
In the fall of 1862, again actuated by a spirit of patriotism, Mr. Smith enlisted at Dubuque, Iowa, as a soldier in the Civil war, becoming a private in Company E, thirty-second Iowa Infantry. At Vicksburg he joined General Grant, whose acquaintance he had made during the Mexican war and at whose request he was selected for scout duty. Later he joined General Sherman and rode ahead of his army in the capacity of a scout throughout the entire march to the sea. His term of service covered about a year, after which he returned to Scott county and has since lived retired upon his small farm in Le Claire township. He is also the owner of valuable town property and as the result of former years of toil is now in possession of a competency which makes it possible for him to enjoy all of the comforts and many of the luxuries of life without further recourse to labor.
As the years passed Mr. and Mrs. Smith became the parents of five children, namely: Eben, residing in Iowa county; Anna, of Cherokee; William, of Waterloo, Iowa; George, making his home in Redwood county, Minnesota; and Elias, living in Muscatine. The wife and mother was called to her final rest in Cherokee, Iowa, and on the 11th of August, 1903, he was again married, his second union being with Miss Amy L. Johnson, a daughter of Sylvanus A. Johnson, one of the early settlers of this county. Mrs. Smith was born on the farm which is yet her home on the 25th of May, 1860. Her father was a native of Vermont, where his birth occurred in 1826, and he came to Scott county in 1858, here passing the remainder of his life. He was a farmer and teamster by occupation. His wife was a native of Vincennes, Indiana, and went to Illinois with her parents, Henry M. and Lucinda Smith, there, in 1848, giving her hand in marriage to Nelson Ritch, who at that time was the owner of the farm upon which our subject now resides. Mr. Ritch passed away in 1853, and in 1859 his widow became the wife of Sylvanus Johnson, whose death occurred on the 5th of February, 1875. She survived until January 6, 1898, and was the mother of four children, namely: Amy L.: Caroline C.; Minnie, who passed away in infancy; and Winnifred. Mrs. Smith has a half-brother, Henry M. Ritch, and also a half-sister, Fannie Ritch. She has passed her entire life on the farm which is now her home, Eli H. Smith, the father of our subject, having entered it at an early date and later sold it to John Williams, who in turn sold it to Nelson Ritch, her mother's first husband.
In politics Mr. Smith gives stalwart support to the prohibition party and has belonged to many temperance organizations, doing all in his power to further the cause of temperance in the community, for he realizes that the liquor traffic is one of the greatest evils against which the country has to contend. His has been a life of continuous activity, in which has been accorded due recognition of earnest labor, and now, in the evening of life, he can look back upon a past that has been fraught with honest effort, unswerving industry and untiring energy and has at all times been actuated by principles that are in keeping with honorable and upright manhood. His business methods have ever been such as to inspire confidence and trust in his fellowmen and his personal characteristics have gained for him the respect, esteem and good will of all with whom he has come in contact.

Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann

John Knox, M. D. From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Knox, Culberston, Witherow.
Among the prominent professional men of Princeton who has ably sustained the high reputation made by his father is Dr. John Knox. A native of Princeton, his birth occurred September 10, 1852, being the first white child born here. His parents were Dr. Samuel and Mary Elizabeth (Culberston) Knox. The former was born near Gettysburg, Adams county, Pennsylvania, October 16, 1824, a son of Samuel and Margaret (Witherow) Knox. He studied medicine in the state of his birth, but in 1850 came to Princeton, Iowa, where he handled stock and engaged in the real estate business until the spring of 1853. Then he returned to Pennsylvania, entered the medical department of the university and was graduated at the head of his class in 1856. Returning to Princeton, he opened an office, where he practiced until his death July 17, 1887. He was one of the most prominent and progressive men of the town, always being at the head of any movement calculated to advance its interests, doing much both as a private citizen and as a man on whom the public gaze rested, for he held all the town offices and, as he owned eight hundred acres of land situated for the most part within its boundaries, he laid out several residence districts. In 1857 he opened what is known as the Knox addition to Princeton and then, having purchased five acres of land, he platted Oak Ridge cemetery, which is the principal burying ground in the locality. During the war he was the main support of many women and children, whose husbands and fathers had fallen on the battlefield.
A slight dramatic interest is attached to the generosity Dr. Samuel Knox showed toward the Presbyterian church. Not satisfied with having donated the land and contributed funds toward the erection of the first church here, he made a journey to New York city to see his uncle, the Rev. John Knox. During the services at the latter's church one Sunday he rose up in the congregation, explaining the circumstances that involved the little religious community at Princeton, and from his listeners raised eight hundred dollars, which he brought back home. That sum enabled them to complete the erection of the church. During the early years of its existence he also furnished the fuel, much of which Dr. John Knox chopped. In recognition of his invaluable services and of his high character as a Christian, Dr. Samuel Knox was elected an elder of the congregation, holding the office throughout his life. He was also the main spirit in starting an academy here. With several other men who had children to educate he raised funds to employ a professor and conduct the school for a number of years. While these incidents bear witness to the fact that he was always at the head of movements for the social betterment of the town, others may be adduced which show his interest in the development of the resources of this locality. He was deeply concerned in a company which had as its purpose the building of a gristmill. It, however, burned down after a few years' operation and Dr. Knox lost about five thousand dollars on this investment. Being on of the main promoters to induce the Sterling & Rock Island Railroad to build a bridge across the river of Princeton, Dr. Knox lost the one hundred and twenty acres of land which he had subscribed to the undertaking when they failed to fulfill their promises. He was one of the most active and prominent members of the Masonic lodge to which he belonged.
His wife, Mary Elizabeth Culberston, was born in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, July 22, 1833. She was the daughter of Captain Culberston, and is still living. Six children were born of her marriage: John, the subject of this sketch; James, who died at the age of nine years; Mary E., the widow of William Meadley; Helen, who died at the age of nine years; Mary E., the widow of William Meadley; Helen, who died at the age of four and a half year; Samuel, who died when he was forty years old; and Charles McLean, of Butte, Montana.
Dr. John Knox has lived in Princeton the greater part of his life. He was a pupil in the common schools and then attended the academy which his father had started. Later he entered Monmouth College at Monmouth, Illinois, where he pursued a scientific course for two years and then in the fall of 1874 was enrolled as a student at the University of Pennsylvania. He was graduated from that institution March 12, 1877, holding a very high rank in a class of one hundred and twenty-four. Thereupon he passed the examination for the position of resident physician at the Philadelphia Hospital and England, but did not assume his duties, however, as his father had met with an accident, which compelled him to return to Iowa. Upon his arrival here he engaged in the practice of his profession, endeavoring to fill his father's place.
In a quarter of a century he has won a large patronage, and his patients are unanimous in their expressions of admiration for his skill as a physician and his high character as a man. Indeed, one has only to look over the record of his life to obtain palpable evidence of this fact. For twelve terms he was the people's choice as mayor of Princeton and was chairman and treasurer of the republican party organization here for twelve years. His land holdings embrace two hundred and fifty-six acres of fine arable land, a part of which lies within the boundary of Princeton. Here he lives in a handsome brick residence on Main street, which his father erected in 1856, and also owns a large brick block in the business district.
A member of the Masonic lodge of Le Clair, Dr. Knox is prominent in its work. He enjoys conditions that are a great improvement upon those with which his father had to struggle. The latter was the first to own a top buggy in the town, and on account of this possession acquired no little notoriety. Conditions, too, were of a kind that enabled him to effect changes and improvements that found increasing growth through the years. Such opportunities no longer exist, owing in part to his work, but his son, Dr. John Knox, is none the less efficient in performing the duties that come to him. As a professional man there is no doubt as to his skill. As a friend, adviser and counselor he has made his sympathy felt by all who in time of need have come to him. This confidence of his fellowmen he regards as the highest guerdon of his life.

Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann

M. H. Calderwood From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Calderwood, Carson, Pelton, Burmeister, Bruhn
M. H. Calderwood, who has made his home at Davenport since 1907, was one of the organizers of the Eldridge Savings Bank in 1899 and has acted as president of the institution since 1901. His birth occurred at Eldridge, Scott county, Iowa, on the 4th of may, 1863. His parents, Henry and Nancy A. (Carson) Calderwood, were both natives of Ireland, the former having been born in County Antrim, while the latter's birth occurred in County Down. The father crossed the Atlantic to the United States in 1847 and four years later took up his abode in Le Claire, Scott county, Iowa, when the district was but sparsely settled and largely undeveloped. In 1852 he came to Eldridge, this county, and, purchasing a tract of land, there followed general agricultural pursuits throughout the remainder of his active business career. Owing to his well directed industry and capable management he prospered in his undertakings as the years went by and became widely recognized as one of the successful and prominent citizens of his community. In politics he was an unswerving republican but had no desire for the honors and emoluments of office. His demise occurred in 1900 when he had attained the ripe old age of eighty-one years. His wife was called to her final rest in 1887 when sixty-four years
of age. Their family numbered eight children, only two of whom are now living, namely: M. H., of this review, who was the seventh in order of birth; and Elizabeth, the wife of Charles W. Pelton.
M. H. Calderwood obtained his early education in the schools of Eldridge and afterward spent one year in study at Valparaiso, Indiana. On putting aside his text-books he turned his attention to the work of farming and cultivated the old home place for many years or until 1907, when he took up his abode in Davenport. The farm still remains in his possession, however. In 1899 he became one of the organizers of the Eldridge Savings Bank and was elected its vice president, while E. M. Burmeister was made president and H. W. Bruhn, cashier. In 1901 Mr. Calderwood was elected president and H. W. Bruhn, cashier. In 1901 Mr. Calderwood was elected president of the bank and in this official connection has since ably directed and controlled the affairs of the institution.
In 1887 Mr. Calderwood was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Brownlie, a native of Long Grove, who is one of the oldest residents of this county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Calderwood were born six children, a follows: Ethel; Blanche; Almeda; Errett Dwight, deceased; Helen; and Ruth. The wife and mother died February 5, 1898, and was buried at Long Grove.
Mr. Calderwood was honored by election to the state legislature on the republican ticket and capably served as a member of the twenty-ninth, thirtieth and thirty-first general assemblies. The cause of education has ever found in him a stalwart champion and for many years he acted as chairman of the school board of Sheridan township. Fraternally he is identified with the Knights of Pythias ad the Masonic order, belonging to Trinity Lodge, No. 208, the Chapter, the Commandery and the Shrine. Both he and his wife have spent their entire lives in this county and are well known and highly esteemed within its borders, having ever displayed those sterling traits of character which in every land and clime awaken admiration and regard.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann

John L. Mason From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Mason, Sweet, Coleman, Evans, Keith, Grilk.

John L. Mason, resourceful, alert and enterprising, is now president of the Mason Carriage Works, an enterprise established in 1868. Its development along well defined lines of trade and commerce has made it the largest establishment of this character in Davenport and it stands as a visible evidence of the intelligently directed energy of its founder and promoter. Mr. Mason was born in Bowmanville, Ontario, Canada, on the 14th of July, 1844, and is a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Sweet) Mason. The father was a native of England but left that country in the year 1833, and in company with his parents and four brothers emigrated to Canada West, now Ontario, Canada. When old enough he learned the saddlery and harness trade and for many years conducted one of the largest business enterprises in that line in Canada.
John L. Mason first started to work at his father's business, but later on learned the trade of carriage trimming and devoted himself to that undertaking. Desiring to perfect himself in his chosen work, in March, 1864, he went to New York and worked for some of the best firms in that city and in Philadelphia. In November, 1865, he came to Iowa, going first to Marshalltown, whence in January, 1866, he removed to Davenport, where in January, 1868, he joined Valentine Evans in organizing the firm of Mason and Evans. The business was conducted under that partnership relation until October, 1881, when Mr. Evans returned east, and Mr. Mason continued the business under the present name of the Mason Carriage Works. In January, 1897, the firm was incorporated under the laws of Iowa and his two sons, Charles F. and Webster L., became members of the company and have in a large measure contributed to its success, the three comprising the only stockholders of the corporation. In 1902, seeing the trend of the vehicle business, the firm added automobiles to their line, being among the very earliest carriage firms to recognize that industry, and have built up a very successful automobile department in connection with their well established carriage works. This department is in charge of the son, Charles F. Mason, who is vice president of the company, while the office and carriage departments are in charge of the younger son, W. L. Mason, who is treasurer of the company.
On the 26th of September, 1866, Mr. Mason was married to Miss Maria M. Coleman, of Toronto, Canada, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Coleman, who were natives of the Isle of Wight, England. To them were born three sons and one daughter: Wellesly R., Charles F., Webster L. and Marion E. One son, Wellesly R., died in infancy. Charles F. married Clara Evans and they have one daughter, Elizabeth R. Webster L. wedded Mabel Keith and they have two sons, John K. and Webster K., and a daughter, Marion K., while another daughter, Ariel K., died in February 1909. The daughter, Marion E. Mason is the wife of Charles Grilk, Jr. Throughout his business career John L. Mason has held to the high standard of commercial integrity and, moreover, has been accorded that success which ever crowns persistent and intelligently directed effort. In matters of citizenship he is also progressive and, while he has never sought to figure in any public light aside from business relations, he has, nevertheless, given the weight of his influence on the side of those measures which tend to advance the material, intellectual, social, political and moral interests of the city. Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann

John T. Mason From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Mason, Stelling, Stevens.
One of the large tracts of land in Winfield township which was settled at an early day when the land was in its primitive condition and settlers were just beginning to learn its value, is the Mason homestead, which is now operated by the widow and children of John T. Mason. It was his place of residence for almost half a century. He was born in 1798 and in 1841 came to Iowa from Maryland, driving an ox-team across the mountains and prairies and locating in the city of Davenport, which was then little more than a hamlet, remaining there for three years. In 1844 he settled in Winfield township, on the 20th of November of that year buying eighty acres of land. Upon this he erected a rude cabin of logs, broke the land and engaged in farming the next spring. Three years later, as he gained large returns from his labor, he brought one hundred acres more and at the end of five years added another hundred. He continued to increase his land holdings until at the time of his death he owned five hundred and twenty acres of as fine land as might be obtained in Scott county. The many improvements with which his place was adorned and the well cultivated fields were the results of his own labors, showing that he was a thorough, painstaking and efficient farmer. He followed general farming and also engaged extensively in stock raising, to both of which industries he devoted all of his life. In early days he marketed his produce in Davenport. A successful man, he was also honorable and upright, a citizen who commanded the highest respect of his fellowmen.
Mr. Mason was twice married. In 1819 he wedded Miss Ruth Stelling and they had eight children. After her death, in 1861, he wedded Miss Sarah Stevens. She was a daughter of John Stevens, who had come from Butler county, Pennsylvania, in 1854. He located in Winfield township, where he engaged in farming and also followed his trade of a blacksmith. Of the second marriage there were ten children born, nine of whom are living.
In 1819 Mr. Mason cast his first vote and in the years 1824, 1828, and 1832 he cast his ballot for Andrew Jackson. He was always active in public affairs and took part in many meetings of the early days in Scott county. He died June 12, 1888 and since his demise his widow and children have carried on the farm with a success that bespeaks the excellent business ability and good management of Mrs. Mason. Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann

Mrs. Mary A. Brownlee From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Brownlee, Roberts, Evans, Jay, Helbig, Jackson, Harn.
Mrs. Mary A. Brownlee has been a resident of Davenport for fifty-five years. She is the widow of John C. Brownlee, who was born in Canada, near Port Sarnia, May 13, 1846. His life record covered the intervening years to the 11th of January, 1909, when he passed away, honored and respected by all who knew him. His parents were William and Christina Brownlee, who came from Canada to Scott county when their son, John C., was but three years of age. They settled at Long Grove and the father purchased a tract of land near age. They settled at Long Grove and the father purchased a tract of land near there, comprising one hundred and sixty acres. Upon that place the family took up their abode and their labors constituted the source of development and improvement for the farm. Their first home was a log cabin, which they occupied for a number of years. It was an arduous task to develop new land but with characteristic energy the work was undertaken and William Brownlee continued to carefully till the soil until his death, which occurred when his son, John C., was about eight years of age. He left a widow and eight children, the eldest being then a lad of but eleven years.
John C. Brownlee spent the greater part of his life in the district of Long Grove. He attended the district schools and also a business college at Davenport and throughout his entire life engaged in farming. When his careful expenditure and industry had brought him sufficient capital to enable him to purchase a farm he made investment in land and with characteristic energy began to develop it. The results of his labors were soon seen in carefully cultivated fields and as the years passed on he gathered rich and bounteous harvests as the reward of his diligence and care. He continued to reside upon his original farm until about 1874, when he purchased a farm near Davenport and made it his home for about eight years. He then retired and removed to the city, spending his remaining days in the enjoyment of well earned rest. In addition to his farming interests Mr. Brownlee was one of the stockholders of the Davenport Live Stock Company of New Mexico and acted as manager of that company for two years.
On the 7th of December, 1865, Mr. Brownlee was married to Miss Mary A. Roberts, a native of Derbyshire, England, and a daughter of Edward and Jane Roberts, who came to the United States with their family in 1855. They landed at Davenport about the 15th of May, and the father, who was a gardener, rented land and later purchased a small farm near Davenport, whereon he engaged in the cultivation of fruit and vegetables. He lived a life of unremitting diligence and industry and passed away in 1887, at the age of seventy-two years. His wife survived until 1890 and passed away at the age of seventy-seven. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Brownlee were born six children: Eva M, the wife of Dr. Samuel J. Evans, of Davenport, by whom she has four children, J. La Verne, Harold J., Leroy J. and Dorothy Edna; MinnieB., the wife of Dr. William Jay, of Nashua, Iowa, by whom she ahs one child, Marion; John E., who married Adelia Helbig, by whom he has two children, Helen and John R., and was at one time for a number of years connected with the Citizens Trust & Savings Bank of Davenport but is now cashier of the Bettendorf Bank at Bettendorf; Jennie B., the wife of Otis C. Jackson, of Chicago, Illinois; Luella, the wife of Frank N. Harn, of St. Louis; and Cora E., who died at the age of ten years.
The death of the husband and father occurred January 11, 1909. He had in many ways proven himself a good citizen and faithful friend and a devoted husband and father. While living on the farm he served as justice of the peace for a number of years and was also constable and school director. He held membership in the Christian church and took active part in the church work. He served as one of the church deacons and did everything in his power to promote the growth and extend the influence of the denomination with which he was connected. His life was at all times in harmony with its principles and he lived so that at his death none had aught for him but good words and kindly remembrance.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann

H. C. Gast From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Gast, Lamer, Moyer
When one rides over Scott county and sees its splendidly developed farms, its fine country homes, its substantial and attractive churches and schools, it seems hardly possible that it is within the memory of a living man when much of this section was still in possession of the government, having not yet been claimed by the white race for purposes of civilization. Yet, when H. C. Gast came over to this county in 1851 he took up land from the government, becoming the owner of one hundred and sixty acres in Princeton township, which he still owns. He relates many interesting incidents of the early days and his memory forms a connecting link between the primitive past and the progressive present. For more than four score years he has traveled life's journey, his birth having occurred in Pennsylvania, June 21, 1829. His parents were George and Susan (Lamer) Gast. The former, a native of Center county, Pennsylvania, was a farmer by occupation and spent his last days in Iowa, his death occurring in Le Claire.
H. C. Gast acquired his education in the district schools of Pennsylvania, mastering those branches of learning which are regarded as an indispensable element to success in business. During the periods of vacation he worked in the fields and throughout his entire life has carried on the occupation of farming. He was only twenty-two years of age when he came to Scott county, arriving here in 1851. He believed that he would have better business opportunities in the new and growing west and therefore he came to Iowa, hoping to improve his financial condition thereby. He found that land was to be had practically for the asking and he took up one hundred and sixty acres of government land in Princeton township, for which he paid the usual price of a dollar and a quarter per acre. Resolutely and diligently he undertook the task of transforming the wild prairie into productive fields and in the course of years made this a good farm, upon which he still resides.
In 1852 Mr. Gast was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Moyer, a daughter of John and Polly Moyer, both of whom were residents of Le Claire township, Scott county, at the time of their demise. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Gast have been born nine children: George C., a resident of Clinton, Iowa; Henry Milton, of Butler township, this county; William Lloyd, of Princeton; Allie, who died at the age of two years; John, how died in infancy; Fidelia, who died when a small child; Mary, who died at the age of eleven years; one who died in infancy; and Sarah Almeda Florence, with whom Mr. Gast now makes his home.
In his political views Mr. Gast is an earnest republican and was twice elected justice of the peace but never served in that capacity, refusing to qualify. As he preferred to devote his time to his private interests rather than to public office. He joined the Lutheran church when sixteen years of age and has since been one of its faithful members loyal to its teachings and generous in its support. His record is that of a man who has ever been true and loyal to duty and through the eighty-one years of his life he has fully earned the high regard and esteem which are uniformly given him.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann

Jesse L. Armil From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Armil, Septer, Barrett, Sivertsen, Mundt, McGee, Smiley.
Jesse L. Armil, a retired farmer making his home in Davenport, while not a native of this state, came here in early childhood before the land in this locality had been touched by the plow or harrow. Surrounded by the primitive conditions of pioneer life, he witnessed the great and beneficial change which the unremitting toil of man gradually brought about.
Mr. Armil was born on the 6th of May, 1833, in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, and was only four years of age when brought to Iowa by his parents, John and Susan (Septer) Armil, reaching Scott county on the 19th of April, 1837. The family settled in the vicinity of what is now Davenport and there the father engaged in agricultural pursuits with good success, so that he was able to invest heavily in the rich farm land of this locality. His wife died in 1855, but he survived until 1887.
Jesse L. Armil received his education in the Catholic schools of this county and during his boyhood assisted his father in the work of the home farm. Later he engaged in dairying on a farm adjoining that of his father. He retired in 1905, removing to No. 628 West Locust street, which is a part of the farm entered by his father.
On the 19th of January, 1857, Mr. Armil was united in marriage to Miss Joanna Barrett, a daughter of John and Eliza Barrett, and to them have been born three children. Frances is now the widow of C. F. Sivertsen, a son of Christian Sivertsen. He was a millwright by trade and was twenty-two years of age when he came to Scott county, making his home here until his death, which occurred on the 16th of December, 1906. Robert married Miss Anna Mundt and to them have been born seven children: Bessie, Ed, Earl, Ruth, Paul, Robert and Marie. He belongs to both the Elks and the Masonic fraternities and is now engaged in the dairy business, having succeeded his father, who for twenty-four years devoted considerable attention to that industry. Warner married Miss Frances McGee, by whom he had two children, Jesse and Frances. After her death he married Miss Cora Smiley. He, too, is a mason and also belongs to the Improved Order of Red Men.
Mr. Armil still owns a good farm of seventy acres, now within the city limits of Davenport. He is an honored member of the Pioneers Society of Scott county and is held in high regard by all who know him. He has always been interested in public affairs and has done his part toward the development of the city.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann

Mrs. Elizabeth Adelaide James From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: James, Penry, Beers, Davis, Barnes, Young, Pope Chambers.
In Le Claire, where she has long made her home, Mrs. James receives the respect and veneration which should ever be accorded those who have passed to a far point on life's journey. She was born in Richmond, Indiana, April 14, 1836, and was a daughter of Peter and Mary (Penry) Beers. Her father was a native of Columbus, Ohio, and her mother was born in the same city in 1815. They were both numbered among the pioneer residents of that state. After leaving Ohio they removed to Indiana and for some years were residents of Richmond. In 1843, however, they came to Iowa, settling at Burlington when this state was yet under territorial rule. There the father continued to reside throughout the remainder of his life. He was a farmer by occupation and devoted many years to the work of tilling the soil. His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he staunchly advocated its principles but never sought office as a reward for party fealty and allegiance. He died at Grand River, Iowa, in 1895, passing away at a ripe old age.
His daughter, Mrs. James, was only seven years of age at the time of the removal of the family form Indiana to Iowa, and in the schools of Burlington she acquired her education. She was capably trained in the work of the household, so that she was well qualified to take charge of a home of her own at the time of her marriage to Thomas James, the wedding being celebrated on the 14th of February, 1854. He was a son of John and Mary (Davis) James, both of whom were natives of Wales, where they were born and reared. The birth in his youthful days he was brought to the United States. At the time of the Mexican war he espoused the cause of his adopted country and became a member of the Missouri Artillery Lighthorse Battalion, under Major Clark. He served throughout the entire contest and was honorably discharge in 1848. Turning his attention to farming, he followed that pursuit for many years and in his business affairs was careful and systematic, bringing his fields under a high state of cultivation and gathering good crops as the reward of his earnest labors. In all of his business dealings, too, he was thoroughly reliable, being never known to take advantage of the necessities of his fellowmen in any trade transaction.
Three children were born unto Mr. and Mrs. James. The eldest, Florence, who was born in 1855, became the wife of Joseph Barnes, a resident of Le Claire and they have two children: Raymond Barnes, now living in Des Moines, Iowa; and Rolla Barnes, of Le Claire, who married Miss Bessie Young and has two children, Jewel and Raymond Barnes. Fannie James, born March 29, 1958, is the wife of Frank Pope and they have on child, Albertine Pope. Albertine James, they youngest of the family, born March 6, 1865, is the wife of Milton Chambers and they have two children, Lotta J. and May Elizabeth Chambers, who are residing with their parents in Le Claire.
The death of Mr. James occurred January 6, 1908, when he had reached the very venerable age of eighty-two years. He came of English ancestry and adhered to the religious faith of the family, holding membership in the Episcopal church. His life was at all times guided by its principles and its teachings, and he was ever an upright, honorable man. In his political views he was a democrat but never aspired to office, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs that he might provide a comfortable living for his family, keeping them from want and supplying them with those opportunities and advantages which go to make life worth living. Wherever known he was honored and esteemed and most of all where he was best known.

Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann

Charles Lerchen From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Lerchen, Weyman, Schlagel, Meyer.
Charles Lerchen, deceased, who throughout life enjoyed a large acquaintance among the German residents of Davenport and was beloved and esteemed wherever he was known, by reason of a cheerful disposition and an honorable life, was born in Saxony, Germany, but lived in this country from early manhood, for like many another son of the fatherland, he was attracted to the United States by the story of the opportunities for advancement said to lie here, although at the time he crossed the Atlantic, before the end of the first half of the last century, the full possibilities of this land were unknown. For a time after coming to America Mr. Lerchen lived in Wheeling, West Virginia, and then removed to Detroit, Michigan, which, because of its position upon the lake, was farther developed then the country surrounding it.
In 1850 he came to Davenport and on Second street opened a leather and harness shop, for he had learned the saddler's trade in the land of his birth. He was thus engaged in business for some time and then, when the fever of western colonization began to take possession of men's minds, he went to Denver, Colorado, being not only one of the early settlers of that city but also one of the first to embark in mercantile pursuits there. Toward the close of his life, however, he returned to Davenport, where he resided until his death. A man of great energy and activity, he found the opportunities he sought in this country, was successful beyond the average, and also enjoyed the respect of the many persons who, coming in contact with him in business or socially, found him a man who was ever genial, courteous and honorable.
While he was living in Germany Mr. Lerchen wedded Miss Amelia Weyman, who passed from this life May 21, 1900, at the advanced age of eighty two years. Like her husband she was well and favorably known in the German circles of Davenport, particularly in those societies that aim to keep alive the spirit of the fatherland. In the Turnverein and Mannerchor she is remembered with especial fondness for the many acts of kindness and unselfishness she performed and for the flags she made for the societies. Eleven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Lerchen, six of whom are still living: Carl, Mrs. Amelia Schlagel, William, Mrs. Lydia Meyer, Fannie and Pauline. Miss Fannie Lerchen, like her parents, brothers and sisters, is well known in Davenport, which has been her home for so many years and where she has a circle of friends almost coextensive with that of her acquaintances. Mr. Lerchen was numbered among the older and more prosperous of the German settlers of this county, and the honorable and upright record of his life is one of which fellow citizens and his children may well be proud.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann

Gus P. Lamp From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Lamp, Paustian, Schlapkohl, Harbeck, Magnus.
Gus P. Lamp, a well known resident of Hickory Grove township, is located on a desirable farm on section 32, whose associations must be doubly dear to him for it was here that he was born January 28, 1872. His parents were Claus H. and Katherine (Lamp) Lamp, who lived for a number of years in Davenport. The subject of this sketch is one of a family of five children: Matilda, the wife of August Paustian, a resident of Hickory Grove township; Caroline, who married George Schlapkohl and lives in New Liberty township; and Clara, who married Otto Harbeck and lives in Davenport.
Gus P. Lamp received his education in the public schools and spent four winters in attendance at Davenport's Business College, his training not being limited to his own particular vocation. Since he began his active business career his life has been devoted to agricultural pursuits, the scene of his activities being, as previously mentioned, the old home farm of three hundred and twenty acres on sections 32 and 29, Hickory Grove township. In addition to general farming he devotes a part of his attention to stock raising with profitable result. He is also a stockholder in the Galloway Manufacturing Company of Waterloo, Iowa. An evidence of his very provident nature is the fact that he carries ten thousand dollars life insurance.
Mr. Lamp was married July 2, 1896, to Miss Regina Magnus, of Davenport. She was born June 2, 1873, and is a daughter of Emil Magnus. They have three children: Louis C. E., Dewey D. and Malinda Luella.
Mr. Lamp is very happy in his fraternal relations, holding membership in two organizations in Walcott, lodge No. 1644 of the Eagles, and camp No. 7749 of the Modern Woodmen of America. Although comparatively a young man, he has accumulated a very considerable amount of wealth. Prudent, resourceful, a keen business man and yet a just neighbor, he is held in high regard by all who know him.

Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann

W. I. Quinn From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Quinn, Glines, Clapp, Ruch.
Among the honored pioneer residents of Scott county none is more worthy of mention than W. I. Quinn, a retired farmer, now living in Long Grove, where he owns two lots in addition to eighty acres of land in Winfield township. He was born in Preble county, Ohio, November 12, 1831, a son of Joseph C. C. and Julia Ann (Glines) Quinn. The father was one of the pioneers of Preble county and was there engaged in farming until 1838, when he decided to come west to Iowa. The little party that crossed the plains from Ohio in a covered wagon consisted of our subject's paternal grandparents, their two sons, and their respective families. The aged grandfather said he wanted to see the country as they went along and as he could not do this when in the wagon, he walked for a large part of the way. He was not able to complete the journey, however, but died when they were in central Illinois. The rest of the party proceeded on their way, reaching Scott county, Iowa October 14, 1838, after having spent four weeks on the journey. They located about sixteen miles north of Davenport, on the Wapsipinicon, where the two brothers took up claims of eighty acres each, although they could not register them as the land had not them been opened up for settlement. However, they put up two log cabins, wherein the families began housekeeping, and when the land came into market they entered their claims and also forty acres each of timber. Joseph C. C. Quinn lived upon his eighty-acre farm for about five years and then traded it for on of forty acres farther down the river, which was partly cleared and had a log house upon it, living there for seven years. The family suffered terribly from the ague, the men being compelled to cease work two months every year on account of it. After they had lived near the river for about twelve years and W. I. Quinn felt he was old enough to do for himself, he told his father he would not spend another winter on the Wapsie. Therefore they decided to give up the farm, and, selling the forty acres in 1850 for three hundred dollars, the father located on the prairie about two and a half miles south of Long Grove, where he entered one hundred and sixty acres of land. There he built a frame house, a log stable and a few sheds covered with hay, hauling the timber for these, and for his fences and other purposes from the banks of the Wapsie. Mr. Quinn lived there until 1867, when he sold eighty acres to Jacob Eldredge, his son, W. I., having bought the other eighty acres in 1852, and removed to Linn Grove, whence after several years he went to Jasper county, Iowa, which remained his home until his death.
W. I. Quinn was about seven years of age when the family removed from Ohio to Iowa, and all the hard experiences of pioneer days are well remembered by him. He attended school first in a little log shanty on the banks of the Wapsipinicon. The seats were made of slabs, which were about a quarter of a log, placed on legs which were stuck in bored holes, while the only desk consisted of a board about sixteen inches wide resting on pins driven into the wall, at which the pupils took turns in writing. At that time there was no public fund for school purposes, so each family boarded the teacher for a time and paid a certain sum for each of its members who attended. Such was the first school at Long Grove. Indians were then seen in large numbers, but they were peaceable and caused no trouble.
Mr. Quinn remained with his father, assisting in the arduous work of preparing the prairie land for cultivation, until 1852, when he started to farm on his own account. He bought from his father eighty acres, which he broke up and fenced, and on which, during the summer of 1854 he built a house, into which he and his wife removed in August of that year. It remained his home for almost half a century and is still standing, a reminder to the present generation of the labors and courage of those pioneers, who made possible the comforts of today. For forty-nine years MR. Quinn was busily occupied in farming, and the generous returns he obtained for his labor and diligence made possible his retirement. He has a pleasant home in Long Grove, and here he enjoys the comforts which is meant should surround a man in the evening of his life.
It was on the 12th of November, 1853, that Mr. Quinn was married to Miss Mary M. Calder, a daughter of John and Elsie Calder, who came to Scott county in 1852, and they became the parents of four children, as follows: Abbie A., who married Selah Clapp of Long Grove; Elsie Ann, the wife of Conrad Ruch, of Adair county, Iowa; Benjamin F., of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; and William D., who died at he age of five. Mrs. Quinn was born in Meigs county, Ohio, July 10, 1834, and was called to her final rest April 14, 1908, her remains being buried at Long Grove. She was a faithful member of the Christian church, and her long life was one of courage and helpfulness, that made her death keenly felt by all who shared her friendship.
Mr. Quinn joined the Christian church in 1850 and has always been loyal to its teachings, rearing his children in that faith. His life has ever been honorable and upright, and his many excellent qualities have made him one of the respected citizens of the community. He has now reached the age of seventy-eight years and received the veneration and esteem which should ever be accorded to one who has reached the evening of life, and whose record in the years that have come and gone is in harmony with upright principles.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann

James F. Lardner From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Lardner, Lee, Gilmore.
James F. Lardner, who eighteen years ago, joined his forces with the business interests of Davenport, Rock island and Moline, was born in Chicago, Illinois, February 22, 1862, his parents being William and Elizabeth (Lee) Lardner. The father was also a native of Chicago. On the mother's side Mr. Lardner is descended form a family who settled in Chicago during the first years of its history and played no small part in its early life.
James F. Lardner received his education in Chicago, attending first a private school and later entering St. Ignatius College, where he took a classical course. Before coming to Davenport he was in the employ of the Western Electric Company and the Central Union Telephone company in that city, having through his own efforts risen high in the esteem of these concerns. Indeed, so pronounced had been his success that he attracted the interest of the founders of the Tri-City Railway Company, who prevailed upon him to come to Davenport. Since his arrival here he has been made general manager, which position he held until May 1, 1908. While he has given the best of his energies perhaps to that concern, he is also interested in the Peoples Light company, the Water Power Company and in the Rock Island Plow company, of which latter company he is at present general manager. He is a man of high principles and business acumen and these qualities united with a capacity for industry have been the foundation on which his success has been built.
On the 8th of March, 1886, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Lardner and Miss Nora A. Gilmore and unto them have been born six children: Mabel and Amy, who are graduates of Trinity; Rosemary, who is still a pupil at Trinity; James, Jr., who is a student at St. Ambrose college; Dorothy, who is attending St. Katherine's Academy and Gilmore, who is attending the public school. Although not a native of Davenport Mr. Lardner has won the respect of those who have come in contact with him in a business way or socially.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann

D. B. Morehouse From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago.
Surnames: Morehouse, Dow, Moorhead, Richardson.
D. B. Morehouse, who has been the deputy collector of internal revenue in Davenport for the past eight years, was born in Galena, Illinois, August 15, 1844. He is descended from a family that came originally from the east in the early days of the settlement of the middle west, for his paternal grandparents, Jonathan and Loretta Morehouse, settled upon a farm about fifteen miles from the city of Davenport some time in the early years of the last century. Their son, D. B. Morehouse, the father of our subject, became a captain upon a steamboat, plying upon the Mississippi river and devoting himself to water navigation until 1858, when he retired and took up his residence permanently in Galena. There his death occurred on a farm in 1869. In his young manhood he wedded Miss Charlotte E. Dow and of their union was born D. B. Morehouse.
D. B. Morehouse spent the period of his youth in a number of cities so that the education which fitted him for the responsibilities of life was obtained in various places. He attended first the public schools of his birthplace, later going to St. Louis and then to a country institution of popular instruction. After a couple of terms spent in Jubilee College, he returned to Galena, where his education was completed. He then took up farming upon the Morehouse homestead, being engaged in the cultivation of the soil for some time. When the president issued his call for troops to defend the Union, he enlisted in company I, Nineteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, being in the western department of the army. As a member of the Army of the Cumberland he participated in some of the more serious encounters between the opposing forces and was under Generals Sherman, Rosecrans and Thomas until the culmination of the struggle. When he was finally discharged he returned to farming in Iowa, to which he devoted his energies for a considerable time. Later he removed to Davenport. After being engaged in several different lines of business, he entered the employ of the government, being a member of the postoffice department here for about thirteen years, and on leaving that position he was appointed deputy collector of internal revenue. The duties of this office have been his for the last eight years.
In Scott county, June 12, 1873, Mr. Morehouse was united in marriage to Miss Ella M. Moorhead, who was called from this life in September, 1901. Three children had been born to the couple. Henry D. married Miss Anna Richardson and is now a resident of Chicago, Illinois. Le Grand E. makes his home in Davenport and is a cashier with the Bettendorf Company. Stella is also a resident of this city, making her home with her father. Mr. Morehouse belongs to the G. A. R. Post, No. I, and served as commander in 1866. Fraternally he enjoys pleasant relations with the Masons and the local lodge of the Royal Arcanum.
Transcribed by Elaine Rathmann

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