Joseph C. Sawtell received his education in the common schools of Michigan and continued with his father until 1857. At twenty years of age he left his native state, removing to Warren county, Illinois, where he worked upon a farm and became thoroughly acquainted with the business to which he has devoted many years of his life. In 1862, in response to the call of his country for soldiers, he enlisted for three years in Company F, Eighty-third Illinois Volunteer Infantry, the regiment being assigned to the Army of the Cumberland. He served under General Thomas, participating on the 3d of February, 1863, in the second battle of Fort Donelson, and later he did scout duty. He was a good soldier and was many times exposed to great danger but came through the conflict unscathed. He received his honorable discharge in the fall of 1865, after serving for three years and two months. Upon being mustered out he returned to Warren county, Illinois, where he continued for three years, and then removed to New Albany township, Story county, Iowa, where he permanently located. As the years passed he became one of the successful farmers of the locality, acquiring a valuable place, upon which he is now living retired, devoting his attention to the Story County Farmers Insurance Company, of which he was one of the organizers. He is also agent for several other companies.
On the 12th of April, 1866, in Warren county, Illinois, Mr. Sawtell was united in marriage to Mrs. Louisa (McMillian) Edgington, a daughter of John and Harriett (Glaze) McMillian. Four children came to bless this union. Florence V., who was born July 12, 1867, was educated in the common schools and at the Chautauqua School of Nursing at Jamestown, New York, being a graduate of the latter institution. She is now keeping house for her father. William A., born September 20, 1869, was married June 3, 1897, to Catherine Gallantine, of Milburn, Iowa, and is now engaged in the real-estate business at that place, being also postmaster of the town. Charles H., born November 11, 1872, was married November 11, 1893, on the birthday of himself and wife, to Miss Mary Morgan, of Colo, a daughter of William and Mary (Fox) Morgan. He is now in charge of the family homestead. Joseph A., born April 11, 1875, married Hazel Ritter, of Denver, Colorado, and is now a successful commission man of Denver. The mother of these children was called from earthly scenes April 12, 1875, her death being the greatest sorrow Mr. Sawtell has ever known.
Mr. Sawtell supports the republican party but he is liberal in his political views, often voting for a candidate at local elections irrespective of party affiliations. He has not sought the emoluments of office but has served with recognized ability as justice of the peace of his township and also as a member of the school board. He is a valued member of the United Brethren church of Dalton Corners and is also identified with Lodge No. 238, G. A. R., of Colo. As an old soldier Mr. Sawtell deserves the gratitude of a generation now enjoying the fruits of a war which cost a vast