in the Bible and for many years an active worker in the Methodist church. She departed this life September 24, 1887.
Samuel S. Statler is one of a family of four children and received his education in private schools, the public-school system not being then established. He remained with his parents until after reaching manhood but in 1855, being then twenty-five years of age, he started out for himself. Coming west to Nevada, Iowa, he was connected for a year or more with the land business. He soon gained many friends in Story county and was appointed deputy county treasurer and recorder under William Lockridge, serving for three years. In 1873 he was elected county treasurer and filled that office for one term, while previously he had served as member of the board of supervisors from Nevada township. After retiring from the treasureship he entered the grocery business, in which he continued about fifteen years. During this time he also acted as agent of the American Express Company, continuing in that capacity after retiring from the grocery business and serving altogether twenty-five years as representative of the express company in Nevada. Since giving up this position he has taken no part in business affairs.
On March 22, 1860, Mr. Statler was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Stephens, who was born in Beaver county, Pennsylvania, September 16, 1831, and is a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Lytle) Stephens. The parents came to Nevada in the spring of 1858 and here took up their permanent abode. Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Statler : Samuel V., James F. and Sidna, all of whom are deceased; one who died in infancy; Edgar, further mention of whom is made below; Carrie Ellen, who married Frank A. Flach, of Amboy, Illinois, and is the mother of four children; Margaret, at home; and Ferdinand, a fruit grower of Elberta, Utah. The mother of these children was called from earthly scenes December 23, 1908. She was a woman of many noble qualities of mind and heart, who thought no sacrifice too great provided it added to the comfort and happiness of those with whom she was associated.
Edgar Statler was born in Nevada, Iowa, in 1865. He was educated in the public schools and engaged in various occupations until arriving at the age of twenty-five years, when he entered his father's grocery, continuing there for three years. Subsequently he engaged in other lines but since 1903 has again been identified with the grocery business and has met with a goodly measure of success. He gives his allegiance to the democratic party and fraternally is identified with the Knights of the Maccabees. He holds membership in the Presbyterian church, of which he is a liberal supporter. In 1889 he was married to Miss Cora M. Slifer, who was born in Grundy Center, Iowa, in 1871. There are five children in their family.
Samuel S. Statler is a member in high standing of the different bodies of the Masonic order and is connected with the Order of the Eastern Star. He has for many years been affiliated with the Odd Fellows and is the oldest member of the order in Story county and the only charter mem-