Ida County IAGenWeb

Various articles written in the Centennial edition about people and places.

Andrew Preston

I am called up here today with the old pioneers of Ida County to celebrate this anniversary and you must pardon me a little if I fall short, as I am a farmer.   For twenty-five years I have planting the sod in Ida County and have reaped with the exceptions of the last two years, a good and bountiful harvest.  In all these years I believe there is no place where anyone could be more successful and live on a farm than Ida County.  I believe we are just as sure of a harvest as if we sow the grain in the springtime. Listen to it rain now; that makes the harvest. (Applause)  To we farmers who reap a harvest, the results are two fold, as we reap a harvest personally and also benefit in bringing into the country an immense amount of wealth and many blessings.  Speaking of harvest and farm, I want to say in 1870 I think 1874, I am not sure, a young man, a printer previously a teacher by the name of Geo. T. Williams, came down to our farm and asked if he could get work in the harvest field.  I believe all printers worked in the harvest in that day.  Well we engaged him and put him to work with the rest of the boys, binding after a self rake reaper.  He got along very agreeably and kept up his station, but the boys thought they would play a joke on him.  My sister was driving and the boys gave her the wink and she drove a little harder than usual and George got tired.  They asked him if he was tired and he said a little and that he would like to drive for awhile (applause).  I believe that has been the great characteristics of the boy ever since (applause).. In 1872 at the time, The Pioneer was planted in the old town of Ida, I remember of being in there and saw Mr. Evans set up the first number of it. It has had plenty of time to grow and has grown and we know it has accomplished much of the pioneer fellows are proud of its results.  It is a stronghold to Ida County and northwest Iowa, but it seems we do not give it  credit due to it.   It is one of the live newspapers of the state and has done more in building up the interests of the community and shaping its policies and sentiments than any other one agency.  The press and its harvest are important and are engaged in a responsible work.  It seems to me you ought to grow and accomplish much, keeping clear all morals kept at a higher place.

(June 15, 1897 Williams Opera House-Celebration of the Silver Wedding of the Pioneer)

The Pioneer was established in the Spring of 1872 as a stock company, with the following list of stockholders; C.P. Lund, Frank Burns, W.J. Wagoner, R. Wilkinson and N. Edwards, as incorporators and the company was known as the Ida County Publishing Company and the paper was to be names the Ida County Pioneer.  W.P. Evans took charge of the paper both mechanically and editorially the same spring and purchased the stock in the fall of the same year and became the sole owner.  Mr. Evans practically being the father of this paper, it is due that we give him a complete biography.

 W.P. Evans

He was born in Putnam County, Indiana, May 3,1842.  He served as apprenticeship on the Greenville, Illinois Advocate 1858-1860.  Enlisted in Co. D. 22nd Illinois Infantry, under the first call for troops, and served nine months, when discharged for disability.  Went to Iowa and at Indianola worked on the Indianola Herald for Captain J.H. Knox.  Under another call for troops again enlisted as a private in Company D., 34th infantry, and was promoted to third, then second, then first sergeant.   Serving two years and four months, when mustered out by reason of consolidation near the close of the war. After the war he studied and was admitted to practice law at Greenville, Ill., and held a position in the engrossing clerks office at the Illinois legislature the winter of 1868.  He came to Iowa and worked at his trade, that of printer with Mills and Co. Until 1870.  He was foreman of the Carroll Herald one year, after which he worked on the Storm Lake Pilot until he removed to Ida Grove in the Spring of 1872 and took charge of the Pioneer.

George T. Williams

Proprietor and editor of The Pioneer, was born in Navoo, Illinois in 1854 and moving across the country in an ox wagon from there to Tabor, Fremont County, Iowa, with his uncle and his mother, and was raised on a farm.  Circumstances were such that his parents were unable to send him to school except during the winter term.. He never attended a high school of college a day in his life. In the spring of 1872 he received an injury in his right hip, which threatened to render him a cripple the rest of his life and he was compelled to abandon farm work.   He came to Ida County and taught a term of school in the little village of Ida Grove, it being the second term the village ever had and the last term in that location.  There were eleven scholars in attendance and the price he received was $30.00 a month Realizing that his education was not sufficient to make a specialty of school teaching, and desiring to learn a trade, he accepted Mr. Evans’ proposition to go into the Pioneer office, although he had been offered the school for the winter term.  Yes, in October 1872, George T. Williams was employed in the office as the “devil” on a salary of $2.00 a month for one year.  The second year he received $15.00 per month, and at the end of which time he purchased a one half interest in the office and secured A.B. Chaffee of   Storm Lake as his partner.  Mr. Evans at that time was holding the office of postmaster and confined himself that and the real estate business. The office was sold to Mr. Williams and Chaffee for $700.00  Mr. Williams turning in his two year wages, of which he had not drawn a cent, toward his part of the purchase price, and giving his notes for the balance.

The Pioneer is now owned by Geo. T. Williams, controlled and edited, with the following employees; U.S. Brown, assistant editor; D.W. Blackman, foreman; Chas. Willits, pressman, typo and manager mailing list; W.B. Hyatt, typo; Miss Roxy Whinery, bookkeeper and typo; Dewitt Bartell, engineer.

Mr. Williams owns and enjoys the luxuries of a pleasant home, besides owning the Williams Opera House and the Williams Park, a beautiful 14 acre tract of land almost in the center of the city.

County Officers

County Auditor-Henry A. Dessel

Henry A. Dessel, was born in Germany and came to America at the age of seven years with his parents, who settled on a farm in Winneshiek County, this state.

He came to Ida County in 1881, locating at Ida Grove.  While here he occupied himself at various clerical positions.   During the first term of Grover Cleveland’s administration he was made postmaster of Holstein, where he had been residing for a number of years, and gave satisfaction to al l patrons of the office, serving with credit to himself and the administration.  In 1889 by reason of his fitness for the position he was nominated as county auditor by the democratic party, and elected at the polls by a handsome majority. His services that he was re-elected and is now serving his fourth term.  He is an accurate accountant, an honorable and good business man, with excellent judgment, thoroughly versed in the duties of his responsible position.  Henry is known all over the county and his advice on all matters pertaining to the county and county matters is always received with more than ordinary credit, and his counsels to the board of supervisors and his services to the people is invaluable.

County Treasurer-Isaac N. Shearer

Isaac N. Shear handles the cash for the county tax payers to the satisfaction of everybody, regardless of politics.

Mr. Shearer is a native of the Keystone State and came to Ida County in 1880, located on a farm in Hayes twp., where he succeeded in agricultural pursuits for several years during his residence there.  He since has moved to Ida Grove and procured an interest in the firm of Wasser and Bleakly and still retains his interest in the firm as Bleakly and Shearer. In the Spring of 1895 he was elected as member of the city council, which office he held with dignity and served the people in a manner that was very complimentary.  In the fall of the same year he was nominated on the democratic ticket for county treasurer, and was elected by a very handsome majority, and in event they should nominate him this fall, which is not only possible but probable, he will be elected by a larger majority than before.  In all public capacities Isaac has been faithful and efficient, and in private life he is a worthy example to all.  In business he is noted for integrity and honesty. Socially he is agreeable and finds friends among all classes.  These elements make him strong before the people and surrounds him with hosts of friends.

County School Superintendant-J.C. Hagler

Ida County is proud of her school system.  She always was from the first term of school that was taught in a dug out on the hillside up to the present time when a school house is seen upon every hilltop.

At the head of the school system we find J.C. Hagler, who acts in the capacity of Superintendent of Schools.

Mr. Hagler is a native Iowan and was born in Van Buren county, and raised to manhood on his father’s farm.  In 1880, his father, J.M Hagler came to Ida County..  The subject of our sketch toiled along with his father for many years and taught school occasionally.

After receiving a common school education, he took a commercial course at Burlington, Iowa and a teacher’s course at Valpariso, Indiana.  Paving his own way by teaching in Ida County and some twenty or twenty-five terms in all.

We are proud to point to Mr. Hagler as a man who has won for himself education and a high rank by his own exertions. Owing to the fact of his special fitness for educational work, the democratic party named him for the office of superintendant of schools and the people regardless of party, gave him their cordial support as he justly deserves.  So ably and impartially did he fill his first two years that the people re-elected him to the second term, and it can be truly said that Mr. Hagler has done a great work in the educational field of Ida County. He has charge of one hundred schools wherein are employed one hundred and twenty seven teacher.  The schools in the county are in a flourishing condition, having steadily advanced in proficiency, largely due to Mr. Hagler’s administration.

County Recorder-J.B. Koppenhaver

J.B. Koppenhaver presides at the desk and answers innumerable questions for all comers. He was born in Pennsylvania in one of her richest agricultural districts, which he passed this county life on the farm among the chickens and watermelons.   In 1887 he came to Ida County and settled on a farm in Hayes twp., where he lived as a prosperous farmer.  In the fall of 1896 the people of his party, that of democracy, solicited him to be a candidate for the office he now holds.  He was nominated and triumphantly elected which is the best endorsement that any man can  have.

While in his own township he held the office of township assessor for two terms, giving excellent satisfaction.  At the same time the township was largely republican.  The office of the recorder is perhaps the most laborious one of the county, yet quite remunerative.  A fact that should follow for the laborer is worthy of his hire.  The books in the office are kept in fine shape. He takes a great deal of pains to show the callers everything in the office and assisting in hunting up matters of record and in various other ways accommodating the people.  He is a young man of most excellent habits, a fine penman and very careful in all the performance of his responsible position.

County Sheriff-John L.Gimmell

John L. Gimmell, is now serving his first term, and the republican party, as yet, have no regrets for their unanimous support they gave him in the Fall of 1896.

He, too, spent his early boyhood days in mauling rails, hustling among the stock, following the plow, and doing chores; and was always a very industrious and economical hand at whatever came before him to do.  His parents gave him a good education, which he put to good use teaching school for several terms after he came to Ida County, back in the eighties.  For the past nine or ten years, John  has been farming in Silver Creek twp.  He was nominated for sheriff by the republicans of the county in 1895, and the large support that the people gave him, is a just recognition to an honorable man.

He has been very economical in the expenses for the county and is very careful that he serves the people all alike and attends very strictly to all the business that comes before him.  He has a fine home in our city and is surrounded by hosts of friends, who wish him success in all his business or political undertakings.

Clerk Of Courts-T.S. Brannan

T.S. Brannan was born in Keysville, Essex County, New York, and his early days were spent as a mechanic and learned the mason’s trade.  He is one of the pioneer’s of Iowa, coming here forty-three years ago, and has been a resident therefore nearly one-half century. When the bugle sounded its first call during the sixties, he enlisted in Company C. Tenth Iowa infantry and served from the beginning to the close in the army of the Mississippi and Sherman’s march to the sea.

In 1880 he moved to Ida County and was soon elected justice of the peace of Corwin twp., which position he held for nine successive years, and everybody called him judge. He is now holding his third term as clerk of the district court, to which office he was elected on the republican ticket, and in all his official positions he has been faithful, performing the duties to the satisfaction of the people, his son Will being the Deputy.  He has a fine home, and a happy family to help enjoy it, and we hope to see Judge Brannan enjoy a long and happy life, that he surely deserves.

Board of Supervisors-

Thorough business qualifications and sterling integrity of a county board of supervisors is the basis of its financial success.  Ida County is specially favored therein and has been for many years.   The present board has served several terms and no county in Iowa can boast of better management. Our county warrants are always at par and paid on presentation and have been for many years; in the year 1872 there were only worth 25 cents on the dollar.  Every department of the government is thoroughly and promptly attended to and economically administered.   The board of farseeing and take advantage of every laudable enterprise that will broaden our fiend and bring to us energetic citizens and capital for investment.  All our public buildings, bridges, thoroughfares and every element of necessity to keep Ida county at the front is grasped with vigor and pushed to success.  The present chairman, Richard Williams, was born in Pennsylvania and raised on a farm in Illinois. At the report of the first gun fired at Fort Sumpter, he enlisted in Co. F, First Illinois Battery from Davis County and served his country faithfully.  In 1876 he came to Ida County and now owns and occupies a farm of 240 acres in Grant twp., where he has an elegant home and is counted among the solid men of western Iowa. He is a staunch republican and a representative one in his county and congressional district.  He is now serving his second term as supervisor.

Mike Murray of Galva twp,. also an old resident of the county, a thorough business man and an extensive farmer. owing and occupying a farm of 300 acres under thorough cultivation, well stocked and with complete buildings throughout.  He too, is serving his second term and no county is Iowa has a more enterprising member than Mike. He is recognized as one of the most substantial of Iowa’s citizens, is also a true blue republican and strong in the councils of his party.

C.P. Fredendoll is serving his third term and known of all men as a wide awake, and enterprising member. His practical business experience, thorough methods and sound judgment gives him strength and influence, and being an old settler and thoroughly requainted with the necessities of the county make him a valuable member of the board, and is the oldest settler on the board. He also owns and occupies a fine farm of 420 acres in Battle twp., which is up with the times in all it appurtenance, and his residence is one of the largest and most handsome in the county. He is the democratic member and stands at the head in the councils of his party and in the hearts of the people, and was elected twice when the county went republican on state issues, but Ida County always, voted for men, not party.

These three men combine all the elements necessary to a perfect legislative, judicial and executive county government, and their services will undoubtedly be retained as long as they will consent to serve.

Janitor-Steve Percival

Steve, who wrestles with the officers and keeps them all in good humor, or fighting mad as the case requires.

Steve was born in the Empire State and rustled among the pebbles on a farm until 1860, when he moved to Michigan and in 1861 enlisted in Battery C., 1st Michigan volunteers, in which he served four years and six months.

He came to Ida County in 1872 and therefore is a pioneer of Ida County. He farmed it for a great many years, but following the plow was a little hard for him and he moved to Ida Grove in 1882 and was appointed janitor at the courthouse by the board of supervisors five or six years ago, which position he has faithfully filled, and the board of supervisors are to be commended for recognizing claim the old veteran who is true to the trust imposed.

St. Bridget’s Catholic Church

This Catholic organization was established in Ida Grove in 1878 and the first resident priest was Rev. Father Riordan, and among the prominent persons who have had charge of the same was Rev. Father Meagher, now of Danbury.  Father Kelley who took charge of this church in 1888 was born in Ireland and educated there at College Thurls in the Arch Diocese of Cashel. He came to America in 1880 and was admitted to the priesthood at that time.  his first church work was at Manchester from there going to Clinton.   Since Father Kelly has had charge of this church it has grown in popularity and membership.  When he came here it was heavily loaded with debt, but under is judicious management the church is out of debt and a seven acre tract of land adjacent to the city is the property of the Catholic Church and on which has been erected a most beautiful parochial home at the cost of $3,000, and which is surrounded by a magnificent and luxuriant growth of trees, the handiwork of Father Kelly.

Within this home can be found Father Kelly when not out upon his official duties, engaged in study among the valuable and costly books of his extensive library.  The church is also a large edifice 40 x 80, costing $3,500, with a seating capacity of 350 people, and which is located on the hill in Ida Grove.  This church has a large and substantial following of well to do business men and farmers in the surrounding country.  From a few families this church has risen to one of the strong religious institutions of the county and this church property would be a credit to any city.  Its property will amount to nearly $8,000, and it is Father Kelly’s intention to establish a school in connection therewith in a few more years.  Father Kelly has worked earnestly and zealously for the Church’s advancement during the seven or eight years he has been in charge, and he has won for himself the good will of the members of the church and the people in general.   He is a pleasant, sociable and courteous gentleman and his influence is not only felt in church work but in the daily walks of life.   He has one of the largest and finest libraries in this part of the country and he is an earnest student of all the standard and theological works.  Yes, the St. Bridget’s Church has prospered and increased it membership under his judicious and conservative direction and this beautiful parochial home of which an illustration appears elsewhere in this issue, will always stand as a monument to the zeal and true religious spirit of one who has ordained his life to teaching the sinner of a better life.

The following old settlers occupied the stage with Mr. Williams at The Pioneer 25th Anniversary meeting last Tuesday; Frank Burns, Andrew and J.P. Preston and wife, E.P. Smith and wife and daughter, R.H. Campbell and wife, Austin Fisher and wife, Geo. W. Smith and wife, David Warnock, J.C. Higgins, Dr. Geo. Harvey and wife, Ed Benedict, Col. Geo. Wright of Denison, Barney Ward and wife, Hon. E.B. Baird, A.B. Chaffee, J.O. McCallister, T.S. Snell, Ed. Bender, Rev. D. Nicoll, A.A. Davis of Arcola, J.P.B. Day Castana, J.C. Stoughton, J.A. Burrows and wife, John Bunn, Abe Stowell, S.V. Carr.  Rev. A.S. Flanagan wa then chosen by invitation to represent the church and the later acquisitions to the energetic populace.

The First Dentist

Mr. T.S. Snell done the first dentistry in Ida County in the Fall of 1872, and it happened this way. Mat M. Gray, who at that time was practicing law and teaching the Willow Dale (now Battle Creek) school, came up to Ida one Friday night to spend Sunday in town, as usual, and suffering with a toothache.  He went to Frank Burns and laid his trouble before him. Frank told him that there was but one pair of forceps in the county and that they were owned by Will Moorehead, who used them to pull horses teeth with. Mat said he didn’t care what they had been used for just so he could get some one to use them.  While Frank and Mat were in the rear of the former’s store, drinking some good old rye from the barrel that always stood open for the customers, Mr. Snell came in , and after he had taken a drink from the old tin cup, the painful story of Mr. Gray was related to him, where upon Mr. Snell volunteered to act as the dentist, so the two struck out across the bottom and across the Maple to Dr. Mooreheads store, which had not been moved over to Ida yet, but remained on the hillside, a few yards from where Sid Clark now resides, and is near King’s Mill.  Dr. Snell and his aching patient arrived at the Moorehead store.  Of course custom

and sympathy prompted Will to take the boys to the rear of his store, where the contents of the tin cup was freely drank, for the purpose of bracing the doctor and his patient for the ordeal which was about to come. Will hunted about in an old box of tools and found the forceps.  The trio then all go up to the Judge’s home and related their troubles and propositions to the good old man, who heart became mellow, and so he, pioneer like, invited the boys down into his cool cellar and then all took some of the Judge’s private stock that was kept especially for serious illness and rattle snake bites.  By the time they had come from the cellar Snell considered himself a full-fledged dentist and made his brags that he could pull every tooth in Mat’s head without pain or blood.  Mat believed him and took a seat and opened his mouth and demanded immediate action.  After Dr. Snell had located the tooth he fastened the old rusty instrument, thereto, gave a jerk and a snap was heard, but the laughter of the bystanders was soon drowned by the Latin and other adjectives used by Mat, between the time of spitting blood and taking off his coat. The tooth had been broken off and Mat declared he would whip Snell for making such a blunder.  Finally Dr. Snell was given another trial and this time he clinched root, gums and all and pulled again, this time leaving a hole in the jaw as large as a walnut, taking out root, pain and flesh.  This is only one of the many hundred incidents we could mention about pioneering in Ida County.

Perhaps there are many people who do not understand why the two Avenues, Moorehead and Washington, that connect the old town, or Brooklyn, with Ida Grove, run diagonally.

It came about this way; In 1877, at the advent of the railroad, there was a general stampede from the old site of Ida to the new town of Ida Grove.  Among the business element the housemover began his work. He secured the consent of Judge Moorehead, the agent for the land, to move buildings in the straightest possible line from old Ida to new Ida, and by the time and a half dozen buildings had been moved, one of them being the old Maple Valley House, owned by Ed. H. Barnes, there was quite a roadway beat down through the field, and teams and footmen took up the new route, as it was much nearer than the old wagon road. The Judge conceived the idea of making the new road into a street, so he petitioned to the court, got the road laid out, and then subdivided the ground upon either side into residence lots, and you see the result.  So well it worked that the old road was abandoned and this was adopted after which the second, or Washington Avenue was laid out and the ground disposed of in a similar manner.

Ida County Business Men

 King

 The Kings Roller Mills, owned and erected by Mr. Geo. W. King, in 1879, and with its additions and dam, cost about $12,000, and is the oldest mill in the city.

Mr. King was born in Onondage County, NY, and was raised on a farm, but came to Iowa in 1843, when a lad of six or seven, and lived on a farm in Clinton County.   He learned the milling trade while quite young, and has followed it ever since, with the exception of three or four years while he was defending the American flag.  Yes, when Uncle Sam called for the brave in 1861, the subject of this sketch laid down the burr hammer of his mill in Clinton County and enlisted in company F, 26th Iowa Vol. Infantry, and faced shot and shell to the close.

This mill is equipped with both water and steam power, and has all the latest and most improved machinery, including twelve set of rolls and with a capacity of making 100 barrels of flour per day.  The mill is run by water ordinarily, and the dam is on the Maple and has a nine foot head, and built of stone.  The steam is used only when the water is too high or too low.  The product turned out is first-class, and there are three brands that are worthy of mention, viz.:”Fancy, Patent”, “Koko” and “Straight”, and they will not only find a very satisfactory trade at home, but have  a liberal share of the outside trade.

Leslie King, the only son of G.W. King, and a young man who was raised in this city and graduated at the public high school, is now the manager of this mill and has been for several years, and he is a man who stands high with all his acquaintances, and it can be truly said that his friends are numbered by his acquaintances.

Sid Clark and Henry Zimmer assist in the mill and George W. put in most of his time at what is known as King’s ranch, a farm of 2,240 acres in the eastern part of Woodbury County, a few miles south of Cushing.  This is one of the largest and best improved farms in northwest Iowa, and is under a high state of cultivation.  Fine buildings and meadows and stockyards and elevator, and a general feed and flour exchange store is among the improvements thereon.  Over 2,000 acres of it is under the plow and the balance is pasture.  He has about 400 head of cattle on the farm and feeds and ships from 350-400 head every season and the usual quota of hogs. About ten or twelve men find employment with Mr. King, and this with his Ida Grove interests renders him one of the most extensive tax payers of the northwest.  Surrounding his beautiful home and mill in the northern portion of our city has 75 acres of land.  Mr. King and his estimable wife and interesting family are valuable factors in the business and social circles of Ida Grove, and they have all contributed largely to every enterprise of a laudable nature in our city and community.

Vern S. Miller

Vern S. Miller came here about two years ago, and by his strict attention to this department has made some very large loans to the farmer of Ida County, and is doing a very substantial business.  We do not wish to be understood by non-resident readers of this article, that by reason of the fact that so much money has been loaned out upon the farms of Ida County that framing is not paying here, for it is quite the reverse.  These farm loans have been taken out by some of our most well to do farmers, who wish to buy more land while it is yet comparatively cheap, or to buy more stock to consume their vast cribs of yellow corn.

Mr. Miller loans money to these farmers at a very low rate of interest.  IN fact in times past too great an interest has been charged by certain loan agents who may claim the cheapest money.  But we wish to inform the public that they will do well to call on Mr. Miller before consummating a loan with any other agent.  His office will be found across the street from the post office with C.W. Rollins.

Vern was born in Michigan, but has been in our state for seven years, and as we have said before, while he makes a specialty of the farm loan business, yet he handles real estate, writes insurance in old line companies and furnishes abstracts for Ida County lands.  his terms are reasonable and he is thoroughly reliable, and invites correspondence.

Geo. W. Cooper

Geo. W. Cooper came here twenty years ago, before the railroad, and worked for his father in the blacksmith shop, M. Cooper, and after the old gentleman’s death George resumed the business.  He has a shop 24 x 30 on west Second Street, and makes horse shoeing and plow work prominent features.  George  has a home in the city and says that if he can’t make much of a showing at his shop that he can certainly can at home.

J.E. Conn, M.D.

A good physician and surgeon is an absolute necessity in every town, as the health of a community should always be looked after first, and we are sure Ida Grove is to be congratulated in having within her city limits such an eminent and competent practitioner as Dr. J.E. Conn, who hung out his shingle in our city some five years ago and who has built up a practice second to no other physician and surgeon in Ida County. Dr. Conn first saw the light of day in the state of Ohio, but came to Iowa and Ida County with his parents when a boy, and was raised on a farm in Maple township, and we are proud to call him and Ida County Boy.  After receiving a good common school education and graduating at the academy of Iowa City, and then entered the Iowa State University, and is a graduate of the medical department of that institution.   The doctor now owns and occupies one of the finest offices in the northwest, and it consists of an office, consultations room and a dispensary, as he compounds all of his own prescriptions.  He makes a specialty of eye and ear troubles, and has taken a special course for the treatment of those two sensitive organs.  He also makes a specialty of surgical work and has a large kit of surgical instruments, and his practice in that line is not alone confined to Ida Grove and vicinity, for he is often called to neighboring towns to assist in performing difficult operations and has always met with excellent success.  Mr. and Mrs. Conn occupy a fine home only a short distance from the doctor’s office and it is made more pleasant by a son and heir who is the idol of his parents heart.  Socially, they are prominent factors in our circles and they are admired and respected by all with whom they become acquainted.  Dr. Conn has but recently been appointed United States pension examiner for Ida County, a position he will fill with credit.  He also had the proud distinction of being appointed by the Board of Directors of his Alma Mater to assist the examination of the graduates of 1897 class of that institution, an honor seldom imposed upon a physician of his years.

R.H. Smith

As an attorney the carrer of th is gentleman has been a decided success. He is of Scotch-Irish parentage and came to Iowa in 1875, and to Ida County in 1885, locating in Holstein where he has resided ever since.  His early life was spent on a farm, but after receiving a good common school education, his inclinations leaning toward a professional career, he entered Simpson’s Sentinary College at Indianola, Iowa, where he fitted himself for the practice of law and graduated in 1882, at the State University of Iowa, paying his way through all the schools.  He located at Holstein after receiving his sheepskin where he has since resided and enjoyed and excellent practice.  The republican party elected Mr. Smith to the office of county attorney last fall and since January 1st of the present year he has filled the office in a most satisfactory manner.  As a citizen of Holstein Mr. Smith is very popular and himsel and wife occupy a prominent place in the social and religious circles of that little city.  HE has a fine suit of office rooms over the Holstein savings bank, a large and complete library and is a thorough and up to date representative of Ida County’s legal fraternity.   Mr. Smith is also quite a land ower of Ida County, having 500 acres, and is theref ore a liberal contributor to the county’s credit.  He is a genial, sociable and affable gentleman and has a host of warm and intimate friends all over the county.

Frank Burns

The honored subject of this brief biography came first upon the stage of action in the state of Pennsylvania and his early life was passed on a farm. When the war broke out he was a resident of Louisville, Kentucky and at the first bugle sound enlisted in Co. B. of the Second Kentucky Calvary.  He served the union cause faithfully from start to finish.  In 1869 he came to Ida County and his first employment here was as foreman of the Hathaway Ranch which he held two years.  In 1871 he was elected county treasurer which position he held eight years and he has held the mayoralty of Ida Grove fifteen terms of one year each.  He has also been a member of the school board nearly all the time of its existence. Frank is a born leader, strong in individuality of brilliant intellect and superior in executive ability, broad minded, liberal and kind hearted.  No public enterprise of merit but what has received his earnest support, and few men holds the affections of the poor and lowly with so strong a grasp as he. Scores of men in Ida County owe their start on the road to prosperity to Frank and scores of homes have been blessed by his bounty. Politically he is a republican and there are many in high positions in Iowa who owe much to Frank Burns for their elevation. He is a mighty power in the councils of his party and many a campaign has been won in western Iowa by and through his sagacity and indomitable energy.  Throughout his life Frank has stood the peer of any man.  Thoroughly rooted in integrity and energetic in all good works and now in the ripe experience of an active life he stands a worthy pioneer representative of American manhood.

Weiser  & Van Wagoner

Among the successful and progressive business firms of Ida Grove, Weiser and Van Wagoner rank with the best, J.S. Weiser, the senior member of the firm, was born in Pennsylvania, and in early life was a contractor and builder.  At the breaking out of the war he was clerking in a large iron manufacturing establishment and left a $100 per month job to fight for his country and ear hard tack at $13 a month.  He enlisted in Company K, 130 Pennsylvania volunteer infantry, and was afterwards transferred t the 22nd calvary and was soon elected 1st lieutenant.  He was in fifty-six battles and skirmishes and was a thorough soldier in every call of duty.

He came to Ida County in 1883 and bought a farm and lived upon it six years, when he came to Ida Grove and engaged in the grocery business as successor to Kent Bros., whom he bought out.

He stills owns a elegant farm of 400 acres, well improved and stocked, and extensive buildings with all modern conveniences such as waterworks, ect.    About one year ago the present partnership was formed, which has prospered by fair dealing and thorough business methods.   Their store building is 20 x 100 feet, two stories high and located on Main Street.

P.O. Van Wagoner, the junior member of the firm was born in Michigan, and was a farm boy.  Coming to Ida Grove in 1881 he purchased a fine farm.  In 1890 he was elected sheriff on the democratic ticked and held the office six years and was acknowledged an excellent duty officer, consciences in every duty.  He owns a pleasant residence on Moorehead Street, where a happy family rejoice together.

J.C. Walter

J.C. Walter, one of our most prominent attorneys, one to whom we can go without tale of woe and he will give us sound legal information regarding the matter as laid before him. He was born in Pennsylvania, attended the University of Louisville, and in 1881 was admitted to practice law in that state.  In the same year he came to Battle Creek, Iowa and to Ida Grove in 1885.  From 1886-1888 he was our county attorney, which position he held with dignity and to the satisfaction of all.   He is not only a leading attorney of our city, but county.  His pleasant office rooms are over Freeman’s millinery store.  He has an excellent wife, who together with their three girls form a most bright and happy family.

Dr. E.C. Heilman

Dr. E.C. Heilman is a native raised  a Hawkeye citizen, having been born in Cedar County, Iowa and where he received a good common school education.  The doctor is a graduate of the Cincinnati, Ohio Medical College and is now the pioneer practicing physician of Ida Grove, having located here in 1877, and has been constantly engaged in the practice of his profession with the exception of four years that he was the incumbent of the county treasurer’s office.  Dr. Heilman is now nicely located in his new office at the corner of Third and Main Streets, one door north of this office and it makes him splendid quarters for the profession he is following.  He also has one of the finest residence properties in the city, and has a happy and contented family to help him enjoy it.  Dr. Heilman is a progressive and enterprising citizen, a successful physician and his large and constantly increasing practice a truly deserving one.

Jacob A. Brechwald

The proprietor of the Central Meat Market, was born in Germany, came in 1881 to Ida County.  His uncle, John Brechwald, was the former proprietor but about two years ago sold to Jake.  The market is situated the first door west of the City Drug Store and is 24x100 feet, the largest shop in the city or valley, and contains an ice box that will hold a car of beef.

When Mr. Brechwald came to this country he could not speak one word of English, but by hard work and having a bright mind he is now one of the best business men of our city.  Jake resides with his parents in a neat little home.  Everything about the shop is kept in a clean condition and his meats are always well kept and the place has a neat appearance and a fresh look that insures the patrons that everything is O.K. in the Central Meat Market.  Highest price paid for hides, tallow, and butchering stock.

E. Varner

The proprietor of the Red Front Livery Stable is J.E. Varner, who was born in Illinois, but came to Iowa in 1862, and to Ida County in 1879 and traded for the West End livery and traded for the West End livery barn.  It is opposite the stream mills, is 45 x 100 feet, and the largest barn in the city.

He has eight of nine good buggies and his horses are the best, much better than are usually found in a livery barn.  They are all good travelers and trusty animals.  Sending out some of the finest turnouts in the city, and if desired will furnish good careful drivers and gives special attention to commercial travelers. Mr. Varner is a man of good habits, quiet and industrious, and has many warm friends.

J.D. Harrington

J.D. Harrington was born in Pennsylvania, and was a good lumberman.  He came to Iowa in 1857 and was a “river man” for a year of two.  When the war broke out he enlisted in Company B, 27th Iowa infantry and served three years.  Came to Ida County in 1882 and was a farmer for many years. He was county supervisor one term, and was appointed postmaster under Cleveland’s administration in 1894, and still holds that position.  His sons, Charley and Andrew, are deputies.  Mr. Harrington is a very prominent democrat and well deserves the position which he now holds.  He is a gentleman in every sense of the word, kind and accommodating, and a thorough business man.

Loucks Brothers

This strong commercial firm conduct a large drug business at Ida Grove and Danbury. T he senior member of the firm, Mr. R.M. Loucks, has been in the business thirty-two years, and was the pioneer druggist at Danbury where he is local manager of the firm.  J.C. Loucks, resident manager at Ida Grove was born in Marshall County, Iowa and is therefore a native Iowan. He has been in the drug business something over twelve years and is thorough in all its branches. J.C. came to Ida Grove in 1895 and purchased the City Drug Store of M.R. Karterman, and from here carries one of the largest and best selected stocks in western Iowa. Their room is 24 x 100 feet, located on Main Street and they carry a complete assortment of stock.

A.S. Wert

A.S. Wert is a native of our state and came here in 1884 and opened up a brick yard adjacent to the city on the east.  He has a plant that is up to date in all its detail and the quality of brick he turns out is fine and most of the brick structures of our city were made from his output.   It has a capacity of 15,000 brick per day. There are 14 or 15 acres in the plant besides a good residence and other buildings.  The quality of the brick rank with the best on the Missouri slope and the best in the Maple Valley.  Mr. Wert is a hard working and honorable citizen and worthy patronage.

N. Hansen

N. Hansen is a native of Denmark, but came to America in 1870 a poor man.  He had a good trade, that of machinist. he came to Ida County in 1881 and began farming and he now owns two fine farms of 360 acres. He moved to Ida Grove in 1885 and opened up a photograph gallery, which he now operates.  Mr. Hanson’s gallery is complete in all its equipment’s and he makes a specialty of landscapes, enlarging, views and  India ink work, and in fact everything done in a first class photograph gallery.

Mrs. Belle Hansen

Mrs. Belle Hansen has the largest millinery store in the city in the front rooms of  the gallery. Mr. and Mrs. Hansen, although having a goodly amount of this world’s goods, are still desirous of obtaining more and by dint of industry and close attention to business they are sure of success.  Their trade is constantly increasing and their goods and workmanship recommends themselves.  Mrs. Hansen during her long residence in this community has made a wide circle of friends and acquaintances and she has ever been an important factor in both our religious and social circles.  Her business judgment and most excellent taste in the selection of seasonable millinery goods has won for her a large patronage and of which she is most worthy and deserving.

J.H. Pritchard

He was born in Ontario, Canada, but was raised on a farm in Clinton County, Iowa.  HE came to Ida County nine years ago and to our city last season and bought out the oldest meat market of the city, known as the “City Meat Market”, which is the leading one in the city.   He buys nothing but the very best of stock and therefore his meats are of the very best quality. He keeps constantly on hand meats both salt and fresh.  His shop is finely fitted with ice boxes and in fact everything to be found in a first class meat market.   On Friday of each week fresh fish can be had at reasonable prices. J.H. is an energetic business man and has the respect of the entire county and we predict for him great and success in the business of which he is proprietor.

F.C. Meyers

He was born in Pennsylvania, lived on a farm in early life. He came to Ida Grove in 1880 and opened a baker’s shop.  Through economic and energy he steadily progressed and now owns the Star Restaurant on Main Street.  The building is 24 x 60, two stories high. In addition to his restaurant he deals in all kinds of fruits in their season, temperance drinks and confectionery.  He also runs a bakery and supplies the people with substantial and delicacies in that line. “Fred” as he is familiarly called, enjoys the esteem and confidence of all, and in this business he is ably assisted by his excellent  (paper is torn, can’t read the rest)

W.C. Riddle

W.C. Riddle was born in Pennsylvania and his early life was passed n agricultural pursuits among the sturdy farmers of that great state. In 1882 he came to Ida County and followed farming the first seven years and now owns a fine productive farm of 240 acres in Logan township. Since he took up his residence in town he has been engaged in the real estate business and is reliable, conscientious and honorable in all business matters. Mr. Riddle owns and occupies a beautiful home in the city and a pleasant office on Main Street.  In all public enterprise he takes an active interest and enjoys the confidence and esteem of all. He has upon his list many fine Ida County farms for sale or rent and solicits correspondence on land or loan matters or information concerning them. He also represents several standard and responsible companies and in all business transaction is painstaking, prompt and being a man of superior judgment and thoroughly reliable, his council and advice is valuable to any who desire information concerning the west.

B.M. Hester

The subject of this biographical sketch was born in Iowa and learned the harness maker’s trade early in life to which he has diligently applied himself from boyhood.  He came to Ida County in 1879 and started in the manufacture and sale of harness and everything connected with that line of goods.  Mr. Hester is the pioneer harness dealer of the city who has continuously conducted the business and he has steadily advanced in public favor and commercial solidity. He manufactures nothing but first class goods. All his stock is oak tanned and hand made and he carries the largest stock in the Maple Valley. In fact it is a complete horse millinery and mule jewelry establishment.  His salesroom on Second Street is 25 x 55 with commodious work shop in the rear, and this with a fine residence property on main Street Mr. Hester owns.  “Barney” as he is known, is abreast of the times in all enterprises and takes a lively interest in thoroughbred horses and owns the renowned Hambletonian stallion “Britton” whose get includes some of the finest roadsters in the west.

Bowman and Kranz Brothers

Bowman and Kranz brothers, at Holstein, the company was first established, and was known as the S.H. Bowman Lumber Company in 1883. The Kranz boys were born in Germany and came to America poor in this world’s goods, but rich in energy and perseverance and could not speak a word of English.

John C. secured a job as foreman on H.C. Wheeler’s ranch at Odebolt at $425.  a year, and H.G. worked in the Bowman lumber yard at Ida Grove and Holstein for $30 a month. In 186 the boys bought out the Bowman Lumber Co. at Holstein, retaining S.H. Bowman as a partner and began business upon a new basis.  Steadily have they advanced until they are recognized among the most substantial businessmen of the west.

They carry immense stock of everything pertaining to their line of business, and have erected fine lumber sheds 62 x 100 feet.  Both the Kranz boys own fine residences  and J.C. owns a rich farm of 240 acres.  Both are also stockholders and directors in the First National Bank of Holstein and are closely allied with every enterprise that tends to the mutual advancement of their towns.

Henry Boyce

Henry Boyce is a native of Vermont and came to Iowa 21 years ago and to Ida Grove 14 years ago. Upon arrival here he purchased the desirable business property he now owns and occupies on Second Street and opened a restaurant. He is a man of sterling integrity and straightforward in all his dealings and associations in life.  These elements of character have given him an enviable place in public esteem and have been the foundation of his steady advancement in public favor.  Henry Boyce attends strictly to his own business and while he takes a lively interest to public affairs he never seeks position and scorns the bickerings of the profession political.  The people on their own motion elected him to the city council and he is now a member of the school board.   Every duty in life he fulfills promptly and thoroughly without the least hesitation.  You get his opinion or his promise on the spot and his word is as good as a bond.   Besides his business property he owns a fine residence on Burns Street where a happy and highly cultured family enjoy life in cheerfulness.

Bells Ranch

A.B. Bell, the proprietor, came to Ida County in 1880, and farmed for a number of years, after which he moved to this city and has been engaged in stock buying and feeding.  He has 1,000 acres in the ranch, which is located 2 miles northwest of this city.  He feeds and has on hand from 400 to 500 steers constantly.  His barns and cribs are large and his feedyards are equipped with every modern convenience for preparing stock for market.  Mr. and Mrs. Bell own and occupy one of the finest homes in our city.

J.K. Lease

He has been a resident of Ida Grove for 10 or 12 years.  He is engaged in stock buying and is the senior member of the firm Lease and Hess, meat market.

J.W. Kegrice

Our young friend who is the subject of this biography was born in Peoria County, Illinois, and moved with is parents to Perry, Iowa, twenty years ago and later moved to Scranton.  He began learning the jeweler’s trade at Bayard, Iowa. In 1890 he came to Ida Grove and in company with Henry Boyce established a jewelry business here. Four years ago he bought the interest of his partner and has since then been engaged in business alone. He is a competent and painstaking workman and carries an attractive and complete stock of goods in his line. Horsemen will interested in his nice line of stop watches and those who admire the novel will delight in the possession of a watch that when a spring is touched strikes the hour and the number of five minutes after the hour-a time piece more especially for the blind. Mr. Kegrice also does fine engraving and has a line of silverware.

Lusk and Davis

F.A. Lusk the resident member of the firm is a New Yorker by birth, and was born in Livingston County, NY, but has made his home in Iowa for nearly thirty years, commencing his commercial career as a clerk in 1873 and has been continuously engaged in business ever since.  IN 1881, in company with H.J. Davis and with whom he had been employed for eight years previous, he engaged in the mercantile business in this city and has since managed the interests of the partnership which still exists, making them the oldest continuous business term in Ida Grove.  Since 1887 the firm has handled exclusive lines of dry goods, shoes and carpets and their stock in these lines rank with the very best stores in western Iowa.  The establishment of itself is a credit to the city occupying two floors of a building 23 x 100 feet in the National Block, and Mr. Lusk’s long experience in the mercantile business stands him in good stead in the selection of goods suitable for the various seasons of the year.  This store is one of the most artistically arranged in the city, every department being displayed to its best advantage and the clerks in charge take pride in making it as attractive to patrons as possible.  In the dry goods and dress goods department Mr. Lusk enjoys an unusually large patronize for it is not alone confined to Ida Grove and vicinity but the surrounding towns, contribute a large number of patrons each year.  In the shoe department the goods have also been selected with care and the ladies and children can secure a stylish shop at very reasonable prices.  Carpets of all kinds are handled by the roll, in fact they keep in stock the largest and most complete assortment of carpets to be found between Des Moines and Sioux City and prices on these goods will compare favorable with any exclusive carpet house on either of those cities.  Ladie’s furnishing goods of all kinds and a fine line of wraps can always be found in stock.  In fact both merchants believe in keeping up with the times by providing the latest styles and satisfactory qualities to their trade.

During Mr. Lusk’s long business career in Ida Grove he has ever been an earnest supporter of all public improvements and has held nearly every office in the gift of the municipality and for nine years was one of the most active members of the city council. He is also a prominent stock holder in the electric light company of this city and is secretary of that association, a position he fills with credit.  Mr. and Mrs. Lusk and their two children occupy one of our most beautiful homes and in all matters of a social and public nature they take an active part.  Mr. Lusk is also a prominent member of the I.O. O.F. and Mason lodges and holds important offices in both of those secret organizations.

Mr. H.J. Davis, the non-resident partner, re  sides at Miles, Iowa, where he has been successfully engaged in the mercantile trade since 1871, and is one of that city’s leading and most influential citizens. Mr. Lusk believes in a liberal use of printers ink and his patronage to the papers of Ida Grove has not only proven lucrative to them but profitable to the firm as well.

Anderson and Lipton Company

Anderson, Lipton & Co., is a banking firm that was established here one year ago this month, the money being left to heirs here by the late Senator Fair and their immediate cash resources is over $350,000, and are able to take care of all their patrons, and the establishment has been of untold benefits to the people of Ida County.   Interest was at once brought down to 10 per cent basis and in this one respect the citizens of Ida County have saved many thousands of dollars.  That this bank has been appreciated and patronized, we only have to cite to the fact that Ida County people have over $270,000 of this money already, either in cash or stock, the latter being used as corn cribs.  The firm has assisted the farmers of this vicinity to feed over 8,000 head of cattle this season, and have shipped in over $15,000 worth of hogs, all of which has been of great benefit to the farmers. Ida County though the smallest in the state is according to the stock journals, the greatest feeding county in Iowa, directly due to the bank, for this branch of assistance has been its special feature.  The immense feeding business requires a vast amount of circulating capital and this bank has afforded all the money that has been asked for when the proper security was given.  The bank is provided with a large brick vault within which is an all steel sage, held shut by an automatic time lock, thus rending all monies and valuables placed in their hands absolutely safe from the encroachment of fire and thieves.  The clerical force of the bank is composed of Wm. Anderson, Robt. Lipton and Ed. G. Bowman, three young me of irreproachable character and whose friends are numbered by their acquaintances.  In short, this is a solid and reliable monied institution and is fully entitled to a hearty patronage and an unlimited public confidence, both of which we are pleased to note it enjoys to the fullest extent.

Carl Leopold

Ida County is noted for the large number of prosperous German citizens she possess and none have been more successful than the subject of this sketch. Carl Leopold was born in Germany and came to America in 1882 a poor boy. He located in Ida County during the same year and commenced life in a new country on a farm. He prospered and in 1896 he decided to move to this city and he became the proprietor of the Farmer’s Home the first day of the present year, and he is enjoying an excellent patronage and still owns a fine 260 acre farm in Grant township. This house is a large two story frame building erected at a cost of about $7,000 and has a large feed barn in connection.  The interior of the house has been repapered and painted and is now one of the best dollar a day houses in Maple Valley.  Carl makes a very popular and genial landlord and he is worthy and deserving of the patronage of the public.  His wife assists very materially about the interior of the house and home.

E.C. Mill & Co.

E.C. Mill, the head of the above firm, was born in the county of Dundas, Canada, in 1848, raised on a farm, spent one year in the oil regions of western Canada and came to Clinton County, Iowa at age 17.  He farmed there until 1892 when he came to Ida Grove and purchased the interest of Jonas Hose in the furniture firm of Shade and Hose. Six months later J.U. Bruner purchased Shade’s interest in the business and the firm was Mill and Bruner  until about three years ago when Mr. and Mrs. Mill became sole proprietors and made the firm name E.C. Mill and Co.  They are now located in a large and commodious two story frame building, 24 x 100 feet in size on the south side of Second street and it is well filled with fine rockers, parlor chairs, cupboards, folding modes, beds and bedsteads, folding beds, and in fact everything needed in the line of house furniture.  They handle a fine line of plush goods and antique oak parlor and bedroom suites, and these goods must be seen to be appreciated. They also carry the finest line of rocking chairs and baby carriages in the county. While the undertaking business is not very rushing, the county is so healthful that there is not a great deal of sickness or deaths except from old age, yet they are fully prepared to meet any demand for this kind of work.   Mr. Mill being a member of the Undertakers association of Iowa and a graduate of an embalming school.  They also handle a complete line of the best pianos and organs and the best sewing machines manufactured.  Mr. and Mrs. Mill own a good home in the city, have a good improved 160 acre intention of becoming permanent residents, and while they are not “closing out at below cost”, they will always meet fair and honorable competition half way. They are both active workers in  our religious and social circles, and it is with pleasure that we devote this space to describing their business and introducing them to the people of Ida County who have not heretofore had the pleasure of making their acquaintance in a business or social way.

L.Q. Spaulding

The subject of this sketch was born in the state of Michigan in the year 1860 and was raised a farmer boy. He entered the state normal school at Valprasio, Indiana, and after receiving a thorough course at that institution of learning he entered the Habnemann Medical College at Chicago and secured a diploma for the practice of medicine in 1886 and located at Battle Creek where he successfully followed his profession for seven years. In 1893 he moved to this city, purchasing the fine home, office and practice of Dr. O.G. Tremaine and has met with excellent success from the very first .   While he does a general practice, the doctor makes a specialty of diseases of women and children and in the treatment of diphtheria he has a reputation probably unequaled by any other physician in western Iowa, having passed through several very fatal epidemics of the disease, treating in all more than one hundred cases without a single loss by death. He never uses antitoxin, having remedies far more potent to cure and not dangerous to life as antitoxin is now known to be. The doctor’s beautiful home and office are both located on the same lot and their comforts are enjoyed to the fullest extent by himself and family. Dr. Spaulding is a broad minded and progressive physician, selecting the best remedies from all sources without regard to any sect or school, and to this fact in a great measure is due his success in the practice of his chosen profession.

The Central Roller Mills

No institution in the commercial calendar of this city has done more towards advertising it than has the Central Roller Mills for its product has found its way into many cities, towns, and villages all over Iowa. The plant of itself is a credit to the city as there are none better in the state and of its management we are pleased to speak only words of praise, for Messrs. Smith & Geiger have given their best efforts toward building and equipping a mill that would not only be a source of revenue to them but a pride to the town in which it is located.

Wm. Smith, the head of the firm, was born in Pennsylvania, and came to Ida County in 1878, locating at Battle Creek where he was employed in the Durst flouring mill for several years. He moved to the county capital  in 1885, purchasing an interest in the Central Steam Roller Mills at that time and has been continuously associated in operating the same ever since.   His experience as a miller covers a period of almost a quarter f a century, which of itself admits of no question as to his ability to successfully conduct an enterprise of such magnitude as that in which the present firm is now engaged.

Geo. W. Geiger, the junior member of the firm, is also a native by birth of Pennsylvania and has been a resident since 1877. He was the principal of the Ida Grove Schools two terms prior to moving on a farm in Hayes twp. where he resided until 1894 during which year he became associated with Mr. Smith in conducting the mill.  Immediately the firm began planning for a larger and more commodious plant and the small building then used was removed to another portion of the lot and a large three story building took its place in 1894. This building was equipped with all the latest and most modern milling machinery, a boiler were placed in position, and from the time of it completion until the present writing, a night and day force has been necessary to meet the demand for its output. A large elevator h as since been erected and the buildings are protected from fire on the exterior by corrugated iron, neatly paneled of a large brick structure. The firm are featuring their “Ivory” patent or elephant brand of flour, and it finds a ready sale in Clinton, Council Bluffs, and many other leading cities of the state and it also finds a splendid market at home. Capt. J.M. Fibbs is the traveling representative for the mill and he has done some excellent service in inducing merchants all over northwestern Iowa to give this flour a fair and impartial trial. The farmers surrounding Ida Grove appreciate the excellent service given them by this mill and a very extensive exchange business is carried on by the firm.

Messrs. Smith and Geiger both own fine homes in the city and are wide awake and progressive business men, fully realizing that the growth and advancement of Ida Grove means an increase in patronage  for their business and an added value t their property interests.

No city of any size or importance can afford to be without a good grist mill from the very fact of its being the best grade getter that a town can possess. It is a daily occurrence at this mill to find farmers who have been drawn to this city from a distance of from one to thirty miles from the fact of the excellent service received at this mill, and while in the city they all do more or less trading, thereby benefiting the merchant as well as the mill owner, In fact the Central Roller Mills are not only a most important factor in the commercial makeup of Ida Grove, but they are of great value to the surrounding country as well, and we are pleased to note that they have the earnest support and hearty patronage of every business man in this city.

Major L.K. Page

Major Page was born in Ohio, but came to Iowa when only six years of age and located in Cedar County with his parents. At an early age he learned the carpenter trade and was working at that profession when the call was made for troops to bring the seceded southern states back into the union, and although only 16 years of age he enlisted in Co.F., 16th Iowa Volunteers and served until the close, and for five months was an inmate of Andersonville prison.  He was commissioned aide de camp under McPherson of the army of the Tennessee and was in every noted engagement taken part in by the western army from the Battle of Shiloh until the close and was wounded at Atlanta in 1864. H e also took part in the siege of Vicksburg, Corinth and Black River Bridge. Mr. Page came to Ida County in 1885 and began buying lands and feeding stock and he now owns about one section of the finest farming land in the county. The major also owns and occupies a fine home on Moorehead Avenue, is a director and prominent stockholder in the Ida County Savings Bank and is treasurer of the Independent School District of Ida Grove and a member of the city council for nine years. The major is a genial, whole souled fellow and his friends throughout northwestern Iowa are very numerous, and he has a wide and envious acquaintance among the politicians and old soldiers of Iowa. We only wish Ida County had more such broad minded men as Major Page. A great redeeming feature with the major is his fondness for his family which consists of two sons and a daughter.

Battle Creek Land And Improvement Company

This extensive and solid business institution was organized under the laws of Iowa in 1894, with a capital stock of $20,000.  The purpose of its organization was to foster manufacturing and business industries and develop latent resources and encourage investment of capital in Battle Creek and vicinity. This laudable business enterprise is under the management of the following officers and board of directors; President, Dr. F. B. Warnock; vice president, Louis Derr; secretary, H.J. Snover; treasurer, J.T. Montgomery; directors, W.H. James, J.A. Keenan, S.C. Moller, J.E. Spotts, E.P. Smith, Dr. F.B. Warnock, Louis Derr.

This corps of prominent and able business men justly merits the confidence of the public and assures conservative and energetic management.  The president, F.B. Warnock, is extensively known through the practice of his profession and extensive business interest, as an able financier and a man of sterling integrity.  J.A. Keenan and H.J Snover are largely engaged in the banking and other business, and the other officers and directors are also men of equal experience and standard business qualifications, strong in individuality and enterprising citizens. The company since its organization has made rapid strides in developing the industrial interests of the town in which it is located.

The Battle Creek Land and Improvement company has some elegant town lots for sale in desirable locations which they will sell at prices ranging from $100 to $500 each and will build homes and sell on the installment plan concerning the location of a beet sugar factory in their town and there is certainly no place n the west more favorable for the location of such an enterprise than Battle Creek, Ida County, Iowa.

Thos Bassett

Thos. Bassett was born in the county of Cornwall, St. Ausell, England, in which country he learned most thoroughly the carpenter and builder’s trade.  In 1854 he immigrated to America, and twenty years ago he became a resident of this city. During the past forty years this venerable citizen has not been idle scarcely a day, either by sickness of for pleasure, a record seldom equaled by mankind and although well advanced in years, he is hale and hearty and can accomplish as much as his trade as any other carpenter in the city, although for the past few years he has confined himself alone to shop work.   His son, W.H. Bassett, was born in America, and is today the head of the contracting and building business which his father so successfully established during the first few years of his residence here, and it can be truly said that nearly all the fine residences and business blocks in Ida Grove are the handiwork of “Father” Bassett and his son Will, and during all their years of contracting and building here they have never had to do a job over again.  There is probably no man in Ida County who has put in as many days of hard labor as Father Bassett.  No one in Ida Grove ever saw him loafing a single moment, and the same can se said of the son, always busy, either working with the carpenter’s tools or else figuring on a contract.  If any man or men have fulfilled the scripture to the letter in so far as earning their bread by the sweat of their brow, it is these two well known citizens of Ida Grove. W.H. Bassett has held several offices of municipal trust during his residence here, and for several terms was a prominent member of the city council.  His city property interest are very extensive, he having erected a number of residences for rental purposes during the past few years which are bringing him in a reasonable return for the money invested. Mr. Bassett, St. also owns a find home located on Moorehead Avenue where he himself, Will and a daughter reside, and they are held in high esteem by their neighbors and fellow citizens in general.

C.A.L. Jensen

From the time that the voluptuous queen of England adorned her wrist and neck with beautiful jewelry down to the present time when you see the wife of President McKinley wearing the precious and costly ornaments jewelry has been in fashion and will never go out of date, therefore lets talk jewelry.

The subject of this sketch was born in Denmark in which country he was apprenticed to learn the jeweler’s trade. In 1873 he made up his mind to seek a new country and a new home, and although encumbered with more liabilities than assets, he secured passage for himself and immigrated to America, locating in Ida Grove in 1880 with a $10.00 kit of jeweler’s tools as his stock in trade and a patched suit of clothes and a straw hat forming his principal wardrobe make up, but by dint of perseverance and honorable business methods he has steadily increased his worldly possessions, until he now has one of the largest and most complete jewelry establishments between Des Moines and Sioux City. During his seventeen years residence here Chris has seen his competitors come and go, but he has always been found at the old stand ready to oblige and accommodate his constantly increasing list of patrons. Mr. Jensen owns the building in which his store is located and another business block equally as good and also has a fine home and a happy and contented family. TO the readers of the Pioneer in Ida Grove and vicinity his store is too well known to need a description of the stock handled, and to those who have not been benefited by a personal inspection, we would say that a visit will be well rewarded by the sight of the many useful and beautiful articles to be seen in his show cases and upon the shelves. Repairing and engraving neatly and promptly executed.

John M. Hosler

John M. Hosler was born and raised on a farm in Pennsylvania. Five years ago he came west and located in this city, and now owns and occupies one of our most beautiful homes, a picture of which is produced in this issue. For several years past Mr. Hosler has made his office with Dr. E.C. Heilman and has been engaged in speculating in lands and is very successfully  and has also assisted the doctor in his office duties. He is an active and energetic young man and with his estimable wife and happy family are valuable acquisitions to our social circles.  “Johnny” as he is familiarly known by his friends, who by the way are very numerous throughout all Ida County, is a very jolly, jovial and pleasant fellow and worthy an unlimited amount of success in a business way and his popularity as a citizen is but a fitting reward for his honesty and integrity.

Mrs. M.C. Haller

Mrs. Haller is a native of Cedar County by birth, but has been a resident of this city for fifteen years, her husband, F.C. Haller, having been for many years one of the most prominent insurance agents in northwestern Iowa. After his death, which occurred some two years ago, Mrs. Haller established a private boarding house to assist in caring for and educating her two children, a son and daughter, and she has succeeded most admirably in her laudable undertaking. Her residence is located on the corner of Quimby and Third Streets and she can accommodate a large number of boarders with both meals and lodging. Mrs. Haller is an energetic and most worthy lady and her fine home  has been the fruits of her own exertions. She is certainly worthy and deserving the success she has met with in her battle for livelihood, single handed and unaided.

George Harvey, D.V.S.

Dr. George Harvey was born in Wisconsin and his boyhood days were spent in the lead mines of that state. In 1871 he came to Iowa and located on a farm in Silver Creek twp., Ida County, and was the fifth white settler to take up his residence in that part of the county.  When the war of the rebellion broke out he enlisted in Co. C. 20th Iowa Volunteers, serving three years and was in several noted engagements. Dr. Harvey is a thorough and practical veterinary surgeon having been engaged in the practice of that profession in this city for nearly twenty years, and his office is at his residence on Moorehead Avenue.  Dr. Harvey can be truly classed as one of the pioneers of Ida County and his long residence here has been one of usefulness and industry.  He was a member of the board of supervisor one term and was elected a member of the city council this spring, an office he had filled with credit several terms before and he has always been found working for the best interests of Ida Grove and Ida County.

Capt. S.K Pettit

Capt. S.K. Pettit was in Lenox, N.Y.  where he received the benefits of a common school education and when Abraham Lincoln, our martyred hero, issued his proclamation calling for all able bodied citizens to enlist to assist in bringing back under the folds of the  American flag the seceded southern states he was only 19 years old, but he enlisted in Co. B. 15th New York Volunteers and before the close of the war was made captain of Co. I, 103d Regiment of U.S. regulars in the Army of the Potomac. The captain came to Ida County in 1884, since which time he has held many places of public trust, all of which he has filled with credit and distinction. He is now engaged in the real estate and insurance business, representing nearly all the old line companies and has for sale and exchange  a large list of land and city property. In connection with this business he also finds time to look after the duties of the office of justice of the peace, a position he has held for eight or ten years, and he is thoroughly qualified to fill the office. He makes a specialty of collections and looking after property for non resident owners and business of that nature placed in his charge will receive prompt and careful attention. In matters of public nature Captain Pettit has always been foremost and as a member of our board of alderman he has been found a staunch advocate of what he thought was for the best interests of the town regardless of political lines or personal gain.  He was mayor of this city for two terms, deputy sheriff for one term and in fact he has filled nearly every office within the gift of the municipality.  Mr. and Mrs. Pettit own and occupy one of the most pleasantly located residences in the city and their friends are numbered by their acquaintances. The captain is adjutant of Mathew Gray G.A. R post of this city and has from the very first been a native worker for the success of the veteran reunion just held in this city, and to him, in a large measure, is due the splendid success achieved.

R.S. Wasser

The Ida Grove boot and shoe dealer was born in Pennsylvania and came to Iowa when a small boy, settling first in Cedar County.  In 1878 he came to Ida Grove and was for several years engaged in the grocery business as the firm of Wasser and Bleakly. After he sold out his interest to I.N. Shearer he engaged in the boot and shoe business and carries the largest stock between Boone and Sioux City. His store room on Second Street is 24 x 80 feet, with all modern improvements and is filled from floor to ceiling on either side with every conceivable style and quality known to the market. He also carried a large and complete line of trunks and valises and gents furnishings and also takes orders for tailor made suits. He owns and occupies one of the most desirable residences in the city and is a prominent member of the Presbyterian Church, and his walks in life and his contributions to the public good, by hand, word and purse, have always been liberal.

Mitchell & Co.

Mr. William Mitchell is the senior member of this establishment. He was born in Canada, but came to Iowa when only 9 year old, in the year 1861.  He was the first man who ever remembers seeing in the state Col. D.B. Henderson, as he was leaving Allamakee County for the war.

Mr. Mitchell was raised on a farm, came to Ida County in 1880 and his stock in trade at that time consisted of only $200 in cash but with a large stock of pluck and motive power and these combined with integrity and industry have placed him at the front ranks of the successful business men and prominent tax payers. He owns a fine 240 acre farm well improved, near Holstein, one of the most handsome dwellings in this city, where, with his wife and son Frank, he enjoys all the comforts of a happy life.  The store building occupied by this firm is on Second Street and is iron and brick, 24 x 100, with an elevator and the stock is a first class one in every respect and they are enjoying a very lucrative business.  The Co. is Frank Mitchell, a young man of exceptionally good habits and one who has the respect of all his associates. Yes, Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell form a prominent feature in society and the firm is among the foremost of the county.

Mitchell and Bossard

The excellent reputation that Ida Grove has as a grain market point is due to Wm Mitchell and Curvin Bossard, who have an elevator with a storage capacity of 35,000 bushels.  They pay out thousands of dollars every month to the farmers of this vicinity which is brought into our city by them and expended for the various necessities of life, thus you can see the value such a firm is to the commercial interests of the community.

A. Freeman

The energetic and highly esteemed subject of this sketch was born in Russia and came to America when 16 years old, landing here without money or friends, and unable to speak a word of English.  With energy and determination he commenced life is the new worlds as a day laborer being unable to obtain work at his trade, that of miller.  By constant application to whatever task was before him and by strict economy, he progressed until he is now one of our well to do business men.

He entered the mercantile business twenty-six years ago in Michigan and in came to Iowa in 1875 and was engaged in business in Jasper and Polk counties for a number of years.  Eight years ago he came to Ida Grove and has advanced in public favor steadily until he now occupies his own building and runs a large double store room, 50 x 100, in which are kept a high grade stock of dry goods, millinery, boots, shoes and groceries. He is ably assisted in the duties of the store by his wife, his daughter Rita and son Haskel, all of whom are popular with the patrons of the store and in our society circles. Sixteen years ago Mr. Freeman had the misfortune to lose his business by fire, but he started anew with less than nothing if that were possible and today occupies and enjoys a large share of the public patronage and his career is one of which he may well feel a just pride and is an admirable example of what men of energy, push and honorable business inclinations can accomplish, wheter of native or foreign birth.  Mr. Freeman never loses an opportunity to do his share toward assisting every laudable enterprise that is undertaken for the public good.

Rohwer & Putzier

A firm that found itself upon the solid rock of honorable dealings, true worth and business integrity, is a sure perennial success.  Such a firm is that of Rohwer and Putzier, and we take pleasure in noting their ever growing and widening field of patronage each year, the growth having been gradual and constant.

Julius Rohwer, the senior member of this firm, was born in Davenport, Iowa in 1866, residing in that city until he reached his fourteenth year when he went to Gladbrook, Iowa and worked on a farm two years near that place, and then went to Hawarden, Iowa to accept a position in a general merchandise store. In 1884 he took up his residence in this city, entering into a partnership with M. Barofsky and John Smidt and established the well known mercantile establishment of the present time. Julius has been connected with the business ever since and has contributed his share toward building up the excellent patronage that the firm now enjoys.  Mr. Rohwer is a splendid example of a self made man, having started in life with a very limited amount of capital, but his makeup, personally is that of an energetic and hustling nature and he believes in pushing his business instead of allowing it to push him.   He is a prominent member of nearly every lodge in the city and this spring was elected a member of the board of aldermen by a handsome majority, a position he had filled for a year previous by appointment, and he has always been an earnest advocate of the city’s best interests.  His brother, Theodore, is a prominent factor in the salesroom and is one of the boys.

Albert Putzier, the junior member of the firm was born in Crawford County, Iowa in 1874. At age 12 he came to Ida Grove to attend school, working evenings and Saturdays in the general store in which he is now a partner, and in which his father, Chris Putzier, purchased an interest afterwards. Albert secured a thorough business education in the Davenport Business College and upon the death of his father he assumed the management of  his interests, and although young in years he has proven himself a thorough and capable business man and his friends and acquaintances are very numerous throughout the county. Albert resides with his mother and sisters whose beautiful home is located in the western part of the city.

The store building owned and occupied by Rohwer and Putzier is a large double front brick structure.  The west room is 22 feet wide by 100 feet deep, and is used as a grocery, queensware, glassware and chinaware department and the stock in each of these lines is as large and complete as can be found in the city. The east room is 28 x 60 feet in size and contains one of the best selected stocks of dry goods, dress goods, notions, boots and shoes, ladies’ and gents’ furnishing goods, etc..  to be found in Maple Valley.  This firm also buys and ships stock and their store has always been headquarters for all kinds of country produce. This firm pays out more money for stock and pays the greatest amount of freight of any firm in the city.  Thousands of dollars are paid out monthly by this firm to the farmers of Ida County which is brought back to our city and divided among the various business firms, thus it can be seen the value they are to the commercial interests of our city. n short, the firm of Rohwer and Putzier is one of our most sound and reliable business firms and of the members we are pleased to class them among our most enterprising and progressing citizens.

Wm. R. De Vries

 He was born in Germany in which he country he received a thorough business education. During the year 1889 he came to this country and in 1891 came to Ida County. He entered the banking business of Baxter, Reed & Co., as cashier, a position of trust he held for several years. In 1895 he branched out in business for himself bye establishing a lumber yard and the following year he purchased the old and well established lumber yard and business of the Bowman Lumber Company, and although his career as a lumber merchant barely covers two years, the patronage he enjoys would give the impression of his year being one of the pioneer institutions of that character in our city.  His yard is located on the corner of First and Taylor Streets and is entirely under roof, his dry shed and office being 60 x 150 feet in size and is one of the largest buildings of that kind in Ida County. Lumber is an article the farmers and business men must have and a good quality is what they seek for and those who know the lumber business of Ida Grove know that Mr. DeVries handles nothing by good clear stock. He is a very close figure and when once he gets a bill of lumber to figure on you may depend on it that his lumber yard will get to furnish the material. He has almost doubled the trade for the  yard during the past six months, a fact we are pleased to note as it shows that he has made himself popular by his gentlemanly way of transacting business. He also handles both soft and hard coal and can furnish fuel in large of small quantities as cheap as any other coal dealer in the city. He owns and occupies a handsome home in Morningside Addition to the city, and has an estimable and accomplished young wife to help make his home life pleasant and they both take an active part in our social circles. Mr. DeVries has surrounded himself by a large circle of friends and acquaintances, all of whom desire to see him enjoy a continuance of his past success in business life which he surely deserves.

Will E. Johnston

Will was born in Cedar County and was raised on a farm. His parents were poor but honorable, and were unable to give their son the educational advantages that many were able to have, but Will was composed of the right material and was endowed with that determination that always is bound to succeed. After he had climbed to the top of the ladder in our Ida Grove school, he went out to work by the day at anything he could   get to do that was honorable.  And if he could not get a dollar a day, he would for fifty cents. It will be remembered that he worked for J.E. Nason for a long time, and earned money with which he paid his way in the Wilton Academy for two years and then returned to Ida County and taught school for one or two years and with the earnings of his work, he graduated at the law department of State University and was admitted in 1890, and the same year was elected clerk of the courts, which position he held to the satisfaction of everybody.  At the close of the term he was elected as county attorney and both times on the democratic ticket and at a time too when the county was republican on its state issues.  But his popularity and particular fitness for the position won for him the race. He now makes a specialty of law and devotes his whole time and energies, and will study just as hard and work with just as much zeal and earnestness for the most humble client, as he will for the most high and wealthy.  He occupies a fine suit of rooms over the Ida County Savings Bank, where he has one of the largest libraries in the county. His tables are loaded with all the late reports and important decisions. He is a constant student when not engaged in the making out of papers. This is one fine example of what any young man may accomplish who has the will and nerve. During his boyhood days he was never seen idle. he had something else to do besides planning mischief, smoking cigarettes or sitting upon dry goods boxes and whittling away life and opportunities. But on the contrary he went to work for himself, paid his way through college, and now has a practice second to none in the county. Owns a good farm and it is all paid for out in Battle Creek twp., and this is not all.   He is having a very extensive practice in surrounding counties, and his standing as an attorney is known in many parts of the state, and we predict for him as he surely deserves a bright future.

John Von Dohren

The writer of this article has had a personal acquaintance with the subject of this sketch for a period covering nearly twenty years and during that time he has ever found him a true and loyal friends and an honorable and upright business man. John was born in Germany where he spent his boyhood days, or until he reached his majority, when he took passage for the then Mecca of all foreigners of limited means-America. He arrived in this country unable to speak a work of our language and with barely enough capital with which to pay his passage and care fare to Davenport, where he first located.  He was endowed with a remarkable amount of energy and push and after several years residence in the eastern part of the state, he decided to come farther west and in 1878 he became the owner of a farm in Galva township, and is still the owner of four or five fine improved farms in the county.  After several years of successful farming, he came to Ida grove an for many years was the genial mine host of the Farmer’s Home. He disposed of that property some years ago and lived a life of ease for four or five years, but as inactivity finds no place in his nature, he decided to again enter business life. A few months ago he became the proprietor of Walrod and Bardwell’s mammoth hardware store located on Second Street and succeeded in adding many new patrons to the already large list of buyers of that business house. The stock is complete in every particular and Mr. VonDohren also handles a complete line of the best grades of buggies, wagons, Deering harvesting good, including mowers of the season. He owns and occupies one of the finest homes in the city.

A.C. Fish

Among the many young and successful business men of the Gateway of the Maple Valley, none are more favorable known than “Lusk Fish, whose clothing and merchant tailoring establishment appears in this issue.  Lusk was born in Clinton County where he received the benefit of good schooling and the excellent advice and training of parents whose wishes were that he should become an honorable and desirable citizen in any community in which he should locate. In 1883 he left the parental home and came to this city, entering the employ of F.A. Lusk in the capacity of general salesman in the dry goods establishment of that gentleman, and for five years he greatly assisted in maintaining the large patronage enjoyed by that business house.  During the year 1888 he entered into a partnership with Geo. B. Johnson for the purpose of purchasing and carrying on the extensive clothing business then conducted by Mr. F.H. Harring and that partnership was carried on to a degree of marked success until about two years ago when Lusk became the sole proprietor since which he business has daily grown until it extends into all four of our adjoining counties. This establishment is not only a credit to Ida Grove but it can be truthfully said that there is not another business enterprise of like character within a radius of one hundred miles of a more complete nature.  The store is very centrally located, just one door south of the post office on Main street and the entire room, 24 x 90 feet in size is compactly filled with the very latest and most fashionable designs in ready made clothing for large men, medium sized men and small men.  The assortment of furnishing goods such as hats and caps, laundered and unlaundered shirts, neckwear, ect., must be seen to be appreciated, for it would tae the pen of the most imaginative writer to describe it. In connection with the store is also a first class merchant tailoring department with an experienced cutter and fitter in charge and the reputation of this branch of his business will compare most favorably with any merchant tailoring establishment west of the Mississippi River. or East of that stream for that matter “Yours for business” has ever been the watch work of Lusk, and the people of Ida County have ever found him ready to do business on purely business lines. No sensational or catch penny dodges have ever been resorted to to obtain patronage, but every article is sold strictly on its merits, and the public have confidence in Mr. Fish’s judgment, knowing that he will rectify any mistake if in his power to do so.  This, to a certain extent is the secret of his success, assisted very materially by the happy and courteous greeting of all patrons by both the proprietor and his salesman.  Henry Wellendorf, who has been connected with the establishment as head clerk for the past six years.

Mr. Fish is still a young man in years and his career as a business man and citizen in Ida Grove has surrounded him by a host of friends and acquaintances, and his home is one of the happiest and most pleasant in our beautiful little city.

C.A. Britch

Charles A. Britch was born in Daugphin County, PA in 1861. His father was for many years a baker in the city of Harrisburg and besides attending school, Charles found time to learn the baker’s trade thoroughly while yet a boy. At 20 years of age he came west, reaching Ida Grove in 1881, and worked on a farm the first year of his residence in the county. In 1886 he engaged in the restaurant business in this city, which he has followed with splendid success ever since. Starting in as he did with no capital whatever except a good character and plenty of common sense, the business record of the subject of this sketch is worthy of emulation by the rising generation of the present day. Mr. Britch was elected a member of the city council two years ago and he has made a most excellent, and worthy member of that body.  He is also a member of the Odd Fellows, Knights of Pyhtias, Princes of Iran, Turnverin, and in fact is an all around substantial citizen and one of the boys.  The Boston Bakery and Restaurant is one of the most popular places in town for a good meal, lunch, ice cream, soft drinks, fruits, oysters and fresh bread and pastry of all kinds. Mr. and Mrs. Britch are among our most estimable and highly respected young people.

Geo. C. Hubbard

Geo. C. Hubbard first saw the light of day in a farm house near Greenville, Illinois, and in which city he received a good schooling while a boy including a four years’ course in the Greenville academy which was supplemented by a course in a commercial college at St. Louis.  He came to Ida County in 1880 and was deputy auditor under the administration of W.P. Evans in that office for nearly two years. In 1882 he engaged in real estate and loan business with H.D. Clark and in 1885 he purchased Clark’s interest and has since then conducted it alone with marked success. During his long and active business career in Ida Grove, Mr. Hubbard has not only proven himself to be an honorable and upright citizen but in private life he has been a success, and when the city has needed a staunch advocate he is generally found on the right side. He is amply qualified to hold any office within the gift the people and while not of an office seeking nature, he has ever been an earnest and zealous worker in the ranks of the republican part of Ida County and deserving of recognition at the hands of his party. (page torn off on last paragraph)

Bleakly & Shearer

Who are the extensive dealers in first class groceries, John L. Bleakly, the senior partner of the firm is a native of the Emerald Isle. He immigrated with his parents to this country, locating in Linn County, Iowa, where his early boyhood days were spent. In 1882 he came to Ida Grove, entering into the employment of Baxter’s Bank which position he held for three years. In 1885 he established a grocery store, and has been constantly engaged in that business ever since. Having for his partner the first few years R.S. Wasser, whose interest was afterwards sold to I.N. Shearer, his present partner. Mr. Bleakly forms a very leading factor to all public enterprises that contribute to the good of Ida Grove and country tributary. He is one of the leading members and supporters of the Methodist Church and holds a high position in the Sunday School He is a valued acquisit on to every moral and educational interest in our city.  He is a member of our school board, has a fine home on the avenue and a happy family that enjoys it.

But to more fully appreciate the goods you must take a look on the inside where you will find everything in a first class grocery store. There will be found domestic and foreign canned and dried goods from the leading manufacturers and salt by the barrel or car load, powdered or in the rock

J.G. Mehrings

J.G. Mehrings was born in Germany but left the father land when 22 years old and came to America.  His residence in this country has been spent as a farmer, merchant by (page torn off a few sentences)

He exceeded in climbing the financial ladder in a manner that could be followed by business men who started in life with better and brighter prospects than were at hand when the subject of this sketch made his debut. Mr. Mehring took up his residence and engaged in the mercantile business in Ida Grove some six or seven years ago, purchasing one of the old frame building land marks of the city located on Main Street.  After using this building for several years, and realizing its inadequacy to successfully carry on his business, in 1896 caused to be erected on the lot after its removal, a handsome and commodious brick structure 24 x 91 and a more pleasantly arranged or more commodious store room is not to be found in the Maple Valley. It was built especially for his store and after his own design with gallery and double deck. The stock is complete in every particular, the dry goods and dress goods department being especially featured by the proprietor, and a more complete or better selected line of goods cannot be found in the city.  A fine line of ladies furnishing goods, cloaks and wraps, carpets, working clothes and groceries can also be found. Mr. Mehrings conducts his business strictly cash, and is thus enabled to sell goods at a very low price, and his large and constantly increasing patronage is certainly evidence of a most convincing nature that his prices and goods meet with the approbation of the people not only of this city and vicinity but of neighboring towns as well. Mr. Mehrings possesses a good home in the city, and also owns a well improved farm in Maple township of 480 acres, and is among the most extensive tax payers of Ida County. The clerical force in this business house are courteous and obliging and your patronage will be appreciated whether of a small or extensive nature.

W.H. Shaw

Among the stock buyers in Ida Grove is W.H. Shaw, who is an old settler of this county, coming here with his father, W.C. Shaw, in 1876, and they were located in Hayes township. Mr. Shaw handles stockers in all ages and varieties. He makes a specialty of buying fat hogs. His office will be found at the Hotel Cole.

Hotel Cole

A large and substantial three story frame building, located two blocks from the Chicago & Northwestern depot and it is now owned and operated by E.V. Cole. This hotel has 35 rooms, all of which are furnished with steam heat and lighted by electricity, and a finely furnished parlor, large and commodious dining room, sample room and office and in fact it is one of the best hotels along the Northwestern line between Marshalltown and Sioux City. Mr. Cole became the proprietor of this house April 1,1897, since which time he has added several need improvements and intends offering every accommodation necessary for making his house a favorite with the traveling public.  As a citizen he is well and favorably known by many residents of Galva twp., for many years, and was engaged in various business enterprises in Ida Grove the last few years.  Socially he is a very pleasant and agreeable gentleman and he has surrounded himself in the hotel with efficient and popular employees in the office, dining room and kitchen, all of whom have been impressed with the fact that it is Mr. Cole’s desire and aim to extend every favor and accommodation within his power to make this hotel one of the leading and most popular hotels in the state. The menu of the hotel consists of every delicacy the market affords and the house throughout is supplied with every modern convenience for the comfort of the guests and special care is taken in the sanitary condition of the house, both outside and within. Mr. and Mrs. Cole have a wide circle of friends throughout Ida County who wish them abundant success in their role as landlord and landlady of this splendid hotel property.

Noah Williams

The honored subject of this biographical sketch was born in Ohio. In early manhood he went to Illinois where he taught school several years, coming to Ida County n1875 and started a private bank, and began investing his accumulations of money in Ida County.  IN 1888 he retired from the banking business and has since given his earnest, financial and general business abilities to his landed holdings and personal loans, He now owns seven thousand acres of the richest farm land in the world, situated in different parts of western Iowa. He also owns and occupies with his estimable wife and only child, Noah Williams, Jr., one of the most elegant residence in the city, where a happy family enjoys life in a delightful home circle. Mr. Williams is an acknowledged authority on all financial matters, and is counted one of the most thorough and substantial businessmen in the west .Coming to Ida Grove in its earliest history he has been closely allied with all its industries, social and political interests and as a pioneer merits the warm place in the heart of its best citizenship which he holds. Through industry, perseverance and faith in Iowa and Ida County he has builded a fortune and by sterling integrity is rounding out a life of usefulness and true manhood.

The Crocketts

Ida Grove has not the original Davy Crockett, but she has some of the descendants of the old original fighting in the persons of E.F., A.B., Jesse and others.  The firm of Crockett brothers, E.F. and A.B. who were residents from boyhood in this town, coming here from Missouri, their birthplace, 17 years ago. They have made a record in climbing the financial ladder of life, considering the opportunities they have had. Their father died when they were small children and leaving their mother in rather poor circumstances, these boys were deprived of a good education and as soon as they arrived in their teens they had to work to support mother and young brothers and sisters. These boys have been very industrious and economical and are very prominent among the young business men of our city.

Ed the elder of the boys, is the proprietor of the City dray line, having two strong and trusty teams, and is prepared to move anything from a shadow to a ten ton safe.

A.B. Crockett is the express deliverer of our city and also delivers the most of the goods from the stores of our city and is the oldest delivery man in the town, although young in years.

Under the firm of Crockett Brothers, these two boys buy and sell hay, both baled and loose, and do a very satisfactory business with this particular industry. Jesse, the younger f the three, works for the two brothers, all of whom are industrious and support their mother, and younger brothers and sister.  The Crockett boys are very trusty and have a lucrative business.

W.S. Blair

The enterprising subject of this sketch, W.S. Blair, is a native of Pennsylvania where he passed his youth upon a farm with his parents. In 1877 he came west and located on a farm of 160 acres in Ida County which he still owns. Last February he came to Ida Grove and purchased an excellent business property on Main Street wherein he has established a wholesale tobacco and cigar business which he will push with al the energy of wide awake, thorough going business ability. He is also county agent for the Page wire fence and is making a great success in the sale of this popular fencing. Mr. Blair is one of Ida County’s substantial citizens and with his estimable family form a pleasant addition to our social circles.

A.V. McKown and Son

This worthy mechanical firm is located on east Second Street, one of the most flourishing thoroughfares in the city. Both members of the firm came to Ida County in 1878 and located in Battle Creek where they successfully followed blacksmithing for six years then purchased their present shop of M.Cooper and son. A.A. McKown, the junior member of the firm, has been in business with his father for many years and is a worthy son of a worthy sire.  Both members of the firm own pleasant homes in the city and are among our most substantial citizens.

B.S. Noble

B.S. Noble, an Iowa man by birth, was born in Warren County, and raised in Indianola where he attended public school until his parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.A. Noble, moved to this city 13 years ago, and he then took a clerical position in his father’s lumber yard which he filled until the former’s death, which occurred some two years ago, and he then assumed the management and proprietorship of the yard.  “Ben” as he is know to many of the residents is one of the youngest and most successful business men, and the lumber yard over whom destiny he presides is as large and complete as any enterprise of that character to be found in the county and is well worthy space in this edition devoted to Ida Grove and her most prominent citizens.  This yard is located on the Corner of First and Taylor Streets and covers a space of ground 120 x 150 feet in size, 53 x 120 is under cover, the shed being that dimension with 24 foot posts, and is double decked and has a drive way 20 feet wide. The grade of building material handled is of the very best and in prices Mr. Noble will not be undersold. He carries a complete line of lime, cement, building paper and of these things he makes a specialty. Bridge timber is also to be found in this yard and all kinds of fencing, and you can get as good prices on a large bill of building material at this  yard as any other lumber firm will give you west of the Mississippi River. A.H. Campbell is the pleasant and accommodating yard master and he keeps the yard in excellent condition. Mr. Noble owns a fine hoe, and has a nice cottage residence which he rents, and has a happy family. He is certainly an enterprising and deserving young businessman and it is with pleasure that we include him among our most honorable and representative citizens.

Homer S. Bradshaw

Homer S. Bradshaw, an attorney at  law, resides at Ida Grove, where he has been continuously engaged in the practice of law since the summer of 1880. Of late years he has devoted his attention particularly to the law pertaining to the settlement of estates, and to all branches of real estate legation. Besides his general practice he has had long experience in foreclosure proceedings, and the settlement of titles to real estate.

He began  his study of law in 1871 at Toledo, in this state, and was admitted to the bar in 1873, and continued in the practice there until his removal to this place. His office if pleasantly located in rooms over the Baxter, Reed, & Co. Bank, in which he first settled 16 years ago.

J.H. Belt

J.H. Belt came here a poor boy about 20 years ago, and worked on a farm by the month for a number of years, after which he bought a farm and kept “Old batch” for ten or twelve years.  He paid for his farm and now has a fine farm at 160, well improved as there is in the county.
Jim then takes unto himself a wife and moved to our city, and has a comfortable cottage on Moorehead Avenue, and devotes his whole time to that of stock buying. He pays out thousands of dollars per month, aggregating from two hundred and fifty to two hundred thousand dollars per year for stock that is raised in Ida County. This vast sum of money which is distributed among the farmers of Ida County and then brought back by them to pay out to our businessmen, cannot help but be of great value to the business interests of Ida Grove.
Farmers have the utmost confidence in Jim, and he being an ex-farmer he knows how to treat his brothers and has the name of paying for stock all the market will allow. And if there is a sudden rise in Chicago market he tells his patrons that they may reap the benefit themselves.  Square dealing, equitable weights and liberal prices are the cardinal features of his success.

He was born and raised in Fayette County, Iowa near the home of ex Governor Larrabee.

he is what might be termed a man of broad ideas, liberal hearted and is an observer of the golden rule. He is progressive and not miserly and his word is just as good as his bond. He is one of the boys when among the boys and one of the men when among the men.

J.H   Besore D.D. S.

Dr. Besore was born in Fulton County, Pennsylvania and his boyhood days were spent on a farm. After receiving a good common school education he was ordained a minister of the Church of God, but when the war broke out he left the pulpit and enlisted in Co. B. 12th Maryland volunteers and served five months. The doctor came west to Iowa in 1873, and entering the dental department of the Iowa State University and graduated in 1884. He moved to Ida Grove in 1885 and established a dental office and he has enjoyed a very satisfactory and lucrative practice ever since. He now has a fine suit of office rooms over the post office and makes a specialty of all branches of his profession. Dr. Besore is a member of the G.A. R. Post of this city and Masonic Fraternity and is also pastor of the Church of God and is one of our most highly respected and esteemed citizens. His home is modest and pleasant, and he has a fine family of boys all of whom are of an energetic and honorable disposition, and they are valuable factors in our social and business circles. His estimable wife is a very worthy and active member of the religious work in the church.

Somers and Son

The pioneer druggists of this city are located on the corner of Second and Quimby streets,one of the very best locations in the city. Their store room is 25 x 100 feet with a basement the entire length. they always carry an immense stock of everything in their line and enjoy the universal good will and patronage of the community.

J.W. Somers was born in North Carolina on a farm and educated at Urvana, Illinois.  During the war he was quartermaster of the 76th regiment Illinois Infantry volunteers and served in the western army.  E.C. Somers, the junior member, was raised in Iowa. He takes an active interest in all social and business enterprises of the city and is one of our foremost young business men. “Elmer” as he is called, is authority on all matters pertaining to speeding horses and we doubt if there is a man in the west more thoroughly up in history of pedigree.

Somers and Son own their business house and J.W. owns an elegant residence property where the family consisting of J.W. and wife and only son, E.C. enjoy life in the highest degree.  This firm from a business and social standpoint rank in the front everytime and it is a genial place to trade and its lady clerk, Miss Emily Grave adds greatly to the pleasantness of the establishment.

Smith and Son

Rev. A.E. Smith, the senior member of the grocery firm of Smith and Son, was born in Jefferson County, Ohio, and was early in life thrown upon his own resources by the death of his parents. He was raised on a farm and did not attend school until he was 18 years old.

Being ambitious to secure a thorough education, he bent all his energies with determination to gratify that laudable ambition. When he concluded to enter college he walked sixty miles and carried his books because he was not able to pay fare on the cars.  In 1865 he graduated from Washington College in Pennsylvania and in 1867 he graduated from the Allegheny Seminary.

From both those institutions he graduated with high honors. In 1868 he went to Sioux City where he occupied the pulpit of the First Presbyterian Church until 1870, when he went to New York and preached six years, coming to Ida County in 1878, where he established and built up the Presbyterian Church of this city and also the church in Battle Creek. He was pastor of the church here for ten years and the one year principal of our public schools, He is now engaged with his only son in the grocery business and occupies a pleasant room in the national Block on Main Street, where it is always a pleasure to trade. Mr. and Mrs. A.E. Smith own and occupy a magnificent home on Moorehead Avenue, one of the pleasantest thoroughfares in the city, where they enjoy life with their only child in accordance with the dictates of noble Christian hearts. W.A. is a young man of sterling qualities of manhood and thoroughly practical business methods and is an honor to his excellent parents.

Peter Frahm

Peter was born in Germany and came to America in 1867. He is a blacksmith by trade and has worked in this state for twenty-one years. He came to Ida Grove in July 1896 and opened up to “Board of Trade” sample room. He carries a fine line of all goods usually found in a shop of this kind, everything is kept neat and cleans in fact everything is first class in all respects. Peter Block is the popular bartender in the shop.   Remember wholesaling as well as retailing done there. They make a specialty of Pabst and Milwaukee beers which are excelled by none being one of the most noted brands in the west. Mr. Frahm has just added a cold storage room to his property in which his wholesale goods will be kept. The Board Of Trade is located on First Street, just west of the Green Bay Lumber Company’s Yard, and the proprietor and his popular assistant will always be found catering to the public in a genial and pleasant manner. Mr. Frahm has located in Ida Grove with the intention of making it his future home and he will always be found working and aiding financially all laudable public enterprises.

Wilcutt & Son

This mercantile firm is composed of C.E. Wilcutt and his son, J.H. Wilcutt. The senior member of the firm was born in Ohio and came to Iowa several years ago settling first in Cedar County.  He came to Ida Grove four years ago and engaged in the agricultural implement business as successor of Wm. Mitchell. The junior member was born in Cedar County and came here with his parents. He was engaged in the implement business with his father three years when they sold out and purchased the grocery stock of T.S. Snell on Second Street, last February.  They have a fine location and keep an excellent stock of all goods in their line, in their pleasant sales room 24 x 60 feet. By fair dealing and a liberal exchange for farm produce they enjoy an excellent patronage which they richly merit. C.E. Wilcutt owns a fine home.

Brechwald Brothers

J.A. and Ferdinand Brchwald comprise the enterprising and successful firm of Brechwald Bros., manufacturer and wholesale dealers in cigars. Both these gentleman were born in Germany and came to America when small children, worked several years on a farm and afterward clerking and later learned the cigar maker’s trade.   In 1889 they established their factory here and employ from three to five hands. By diligent industry, perseverance and strict integrity they have built up a trade averaging over 1,000 cigars per day.  All their cigars are made of child cuts of the best tobacco in the market and the following brands are among their justly popular make; “Board Of Trade”, “Monona” and “Roxy” Their trade extends along the Chicago and Northwestern railway from Carroll to Sioux City.

H.E. Curry

H.E .Curry does a large amount of the painting of Ida Grove. He is a painter and paper  hanger and is also agent for the Alfred Peat’s famous wall paper. His office is on Main Street near the depot.

W.F. Beaver & Son

The senior member of this well known firm of blacksmiths, located in Ida Grove in 1876, one  year before the railroad reached this point, and has been a continuos resident of the city ever since with the exception of a few months. MR. Beaver St. enlisted in  Co. C. 1st Wisconsin the war broke out and served until the close. W.A. Beaver, the son, was born in Iowa, and has had a life time’s experience as a mechanic, entering his father’s shop when only a lad, and has the reputation of being one of the very best horse shoers in the west. He is now serving his second term as city treasurer and is trusted official and a prominent young business man. This firm now have one of the largest and best equipped blacksmith shops in Ida County and make a specialty of horse shoeing and plow work, although, they do a large amount of repair work and their efforts to please the people is certainly in evidence from the fact of their being kept busy nearly all the years.  J.B. White, an experienced mechanic, is also connected with the firm and is a genial, wholesouled fellow with a host of friends and acquaintances. W.F. and W.A. both own good homes in the city and the former is a prominent member of the G.A.R. Post and the latter of the Masons and several other civic societies. First class work in every department of their shop is a feature of their business success and as each year rolls by they add many new improvements in the way of machinery and believe in keeping full up to the times.

W.M. Maine

W.M. Maine arrived in the capital city of Ida County about one year ago and purchased the Ida Grove Steam Laundry. Since making the purchase he has added much to its equipment and now has one of the most complete systems of modern laundry machinery in Iowa and is doing a large and lucrative business. His patronage reaches along the C.N.W.R.R. and the Illinois Central for many miles in each direction and the excellency of his work is rapidly extending his field.

A.D. Creighton

He is the pioneer clerk of Ida Grove, having been here for the last twenty years. He is a genial, wholesouled fellow and has the confidence and respect of all the citizens of Ida Grove and surrounding country. He has a estimable wife and family.

W.C. Farquahar

He is our boot and shoe man, and born in Ohio.  He received a good education and graduated in the Mount Vernon High School of that state and was valedictorian of a class of eleven. He came to Iowa in 1877 and was a “man of the grip” for a few years, coming to Ida Grove in 1883, he established a boot and shoe store and is still engaged in the same business and at the same old stand. His store room is 24 x 60 and is fully equipped with all the essentials necessary to his large trade. He carries everything found in a first class trade, and at the lowest prices for good goods.  He is a gentleman of good business ability, kind, generous and one of our best citizens, always ready to assist with any laudable enterprise, which will be benefit to the city or county. He has an estimable wife and fine family who with him enjoy a beautiful home in our city. He is a staunch republican and very prominent in political circles, and is amply able to hold any official position in the gift of Ida County.

John Schmidt

John Schmidt was born in Germany and came to America in 1859. He served all through the war in Company K. 5th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry.  He came to Ida County twenty five years ago and is a carpenter by trade, and has a wife reputation by reason of his skill and fine workmanship.  Very many buildings both in our city and surrounding county stank as monuments of his industry and good work. He has many friends throughout the country who have a great respect for him as an old soldier, a business man and personal friend, and who join with us in wishing for him all good things that fall to the lot of mankind. Coming here in 1872, renders him a pioneer, surely, and he is the oldest carpenter in the county.

A.B. Clark D.D.S.

He was born in Clinton County and is therefore a product of the brightest state of the union.  He graduated early in life from high school, DeWitt, Iowa. He attended northwestern university at Chicago from which he graduated with honors, after which he took a post graduated course in the same excellent college. He is also a graduate of the Des Moines commercial college, and was for a year of so a bookkeeper in the Fist National Bank of Des Moines and studied languages at the Des Moines Baptist University. He is a gentleman of culture and high social standing, and thoroughly versed in the dental profession. He recently located in Ida County and occupies one of the most elegant and thoroughly equipped sit of dental parlors in the state. His dental appliance and instruments are all of the latest and most improved, including electric drills, nerve killers, and a cataphoric outfit. His trade has been unexpectedly large, and entirely satisfactory to patrons. All work known in modern dentistry will be promptly executed and such work as transplanting, which has never been done before in this section, is one of the accomplishments of Dr. Clark and which operation has been successfully performed upon some of our citizens by him.  Dr. Clark and his estimable family are valued acquisitions to business and society of Ida Grove.

Wm. Elser & Son

In the above firm Ida Grove has two worthy examples of citizenship and toil. Wm. Elser was born in the hills and raised upon a farm in Pennsylvania and when the call was made for men of loyalty and nerve to settle the national dispute he enlisted in Co.E. Fourth Pennsylvania Volunteers and served nearly five years. After his return he learned the carpenter’s trade. He moved to Ida Grove sixteen years ago accompanied by his family, during which time he has been an active wood worker and his son began to handle the saw and hammer at an early age and now is the junior member of the firm. Both are hard and experienced workmen and many of the fine residents of Ida Grove and vicinity were erected by them and the handsome residence of Major L.K. Page is among the list. Mr. Elser is a true blue republican and votes as he shot. They have a large shop, 22 x80, second door west of the Central Roller Mills from which they receive the power to operate their machinery, such as scroll and circular saws, mortising machines, ect., and is the only shop in the city with steam power. Both have good homes in the city and are valued additions to the business and all else that is good for the city.

Smith’s Ranch

One of the largest stock ranches of the Missouri slope is in Ida County and only a mile west of Ida Grove, the property of J.W. Smith, formerly of Mapleton, but who has of late years been disposing of interests there and investing in this vicinity; a compliment to our county.  There are 720 acres in this ranch and it is well equipped, with feed yards, barns, granaries, and a large two story brick residence, and by the way, this is the only brick farm house in the county and was built by O. Waterman in 1872.

Mr. Smith works from five to eight men of the place and will buy 60,000 or 75,000 bushels of corn every season of his neighbors, generally paying a cent or two above market prices. He is now feeding 700 head of steers, and as soon as one lot is shipped he will have other stockers to put in their place.  It joins the Bell Ranch and is a twin sister. The foreman of the ranch is John Menhinick, and he is assisted in the feeding by Boyd Bailey, Fred Baker, Peter Manion and Milt Giles. 

Hans Fugel

The subject of this sketch was born in Denmark, and came to Ida County ten years ago. He was a cabinet maker by tread. he is now proprietor of the Fair Store of this city.  He is a man of good business ability and has a good trade, which he merits, and has the confidence and good will of the public. He has just built a fine brick store room at a cost of $2,000 which he now occupies, the size being 25 x 50 feet, on the north side of Second Street, next door to the Anderson, Lipton & Co. bankers.  The stock consists of tinware, toweling and all the articles usually kept in a five and ten cent store, stationery, soaps, garden tools and 3,375 different articles, all of which are useful, and sold at prices that would astonish the natives. Mrs. Fugel is a constant clerk in the store, especially while Hans is out working at his trade.

 John G. Riddle

Who will cry sales by the day or on Commission? John G. Riddle of the auctioneering business.

He was born in the Keystone State, and came to Ida County 19 years ago, and has been farming part of the time and owns and occupies a fine farm near this city. He is a hustler and one of the most energetic and reliable citizens of  Ida County, and business and society are both benefited by reason of his residence among us.

Berger Brothers

The members of this firm are Joe, Charley and Bert. These wide awake lads came to Ida Grove eight years ago and have the oldest continuous barber shop in the city. They own and occupy an excellent location on Second Street near Hotel Cole.   They are all experts in their business and enjoy a large patronage among our best citizens and the traveling men who visit the town.   The senior member of the firm “Joe” is also an extensive dealer in Jersey Stock and is wide awake in all legitimate sport and public enterprises.

C.W. Rollins

He was born in Corinth, Maine in 1843, and moved with his parent to Cedar County in the Spring of 1857, where he was raised on a farm, receiving a good collegiate education. But ere he had finished his work along this line, a call was made to defend the flag, and while yet in his teens he laid aside his books and enlisted in Company G., 31st Iowa, in August 1862, and remained at that post of duty until the 26th day of June 1865, when he was mustered out of service by reason of the close of war. Mr. Rollins was in a great many of the most important battles, among which that of Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge, Ringgold, Atlanta, and the taking of Jonesboro, and with Sherman marched to the sea, and on up through the Carolina’s and Virginia, ending up with the grand review at Washington, D.C.

After the services had been severed with the government, he again resumed his educational work and graduated at Mr. Vernon in 1869 and was admitted to practice law at Tipton, Cedar County, Iowa in 1870.  He has been constantly at the head of his profession ever since, and with the exception of four years, during which time he held the elevated position of county superintendent of schools in Cedar County. He came to Ida Grove in 1877, and at once assumed a position in the bar of this section, and today has no peer and few equals.  He is the oldest practitioner in our city. During the time that he has been among us he has taken an active part in all public affairs.  He was one of the commissioners appointed by the court to assist the incorporation of Ida Grove and has held other important positions in our schools and municipalities. He has won enviable place at the front ranks of Blackstoneism. He is a very zealous and painstaking attorney, and does not advise a client to go to law unless he is positive he has the best side of the case. And this is evidenced from the fact that he is successful in a vast majority of his cases, which he the records of Ida County will show. He has a fine suite of rooms opposite the post office on Main Street, and an extensive library, and is a constant and careful student and practitioner in his chosen profession.

John Lynn

He was born in Port Ewen, NY on the Hudson. A good portion of his boyhood was spent on the Erie canal, his father being engaged in boating on that important thoroughfare of commerce between Buffalo and NY City. IN 1879 the entire family emigrated to Ida County, settling on a farm in Silver Creek twp.  John farmed there six years, then went to Nebraska where he learned photography, and in which business he has been engaged with good success ever since, returning to Ida Grove three years ago he established a gallery which is now one of the most popular galleries in the section.

He does all work in his line from a locket miniature to a life size crayon, having learned to enlarge from an artist who was awarded the world’s first prize. HE makes a specialty of difficult subjects and learning apprentices, many of whom have left home and become renowned.

G.A. Cobb

He is a businessman who has been engaged in active mercantile life here for many years.  During his entire residence here he has been an extensive stock and grain dealer and shipper and has also conducted one of the most popular grocery stores in the city. He owns an elegant home in Jacob’s addition and many broad acres of the fertile lands of the Maple Valley.

Frank Hess

Of the firm Lease & Hess, is a native Keystoner, coming to Ida County twelve or fifteen years ago and was a professional farmer in Logan twp., for a number of years but is now in the meat business in Ida Grove. Frank and his children occupy a handsome home.

FARMERS

Ida county contains some of the finest farms upon which are some magnificent homes, and prosperous people therein.  Only a few years ago this entire county was covered with a luxuriant growth of bluejoint grass, prairie pinks and spider lilies. Land could be bought for five or six dollars per acre. Now what a change.  This thought was suggested to us the other day, as we made a flying trip to Hayes township and the homes of W.L. and J.H. Pilcher. These we call model farms, and we are pleased to present to the readers of this issue a picture of these two home. Mr. W.L. Pilcher, the senior brother, bought his land here in 1875, and came the following spring and located upon his present farm, and when there was only two families in the township besides him. He went to work and has been a steady and industrious farmer and rich has been his reward. He has 470 acres of  land and his home is surrounded by the best artificial grove to be found in Ida County. He has over fifty varieties of trees and acres of berries, and fields of tame grass and train loads of stock and a birdseye view of his home, barn and a part of his grove is seen elsewhere. He was a member of the board of supervisors for one term and is very prominent in school and church work of this township.

J.H . Pilcher

He is just across the road from his brother W.L. Pilcher, he coming to Ida County the same time his brother came. He has 600 acres of land, well improved, fenced and pastured, with orchard and tame grass, beautiful home and tenant houses and his yards are filled with cattle and hogs. This is not all that the owner has upon his farm, for they have thirteen children, all at home except one, a daughter, who is married. Ten boys are there to share the work on the farm and help to eat up the eggs, chickens and watermelons. It is an exceptionally bright family of children and they very in all sizes from the one you see in the cradle in that picture to the one young man with the mustache. They are all very much attached to home and each other. It is evident that father and mother have done their share toward making home pleasant. The family is all in the picture with the exception of the married daughter and one or two other boys who were planting corn.   Mr. Pilcher does not have to hire any help and he has an eye to business. The farm is kept up in goo shape and the table is well spread, for we had the pleasure of eating with that family group only a few evenings ago. These two Pilcher homes are headquarters for society and picnics in that part of the county.

Alex McHugh

Whose elegant mansion is the subject of illustration in this issue, came here from Indiana about twenty years ago and by diligent attention to business has amassed a fortune. Besides his extensive banking interests he owns a vast number of improved farms in Ida and other counties of western Iowa and is acknowledged as one of the most extensive and successful agriculturists and business men of the west.

James Brown

Among western Iowa’s most thorough agriculturists the subject of this biography, Mr. James Brown of Battle township, stands prominently in line with the foremost. he was born in Perry County, Ohio, and possesses all the solid and thrifty elements of character so prominent among the pioneers from that thrifty state.   Mr. Brown came to Iowa in 1847 and to Ida County in 1874, and was the second settler in Battle twp., where he purchased 160 acres of rich land and by diligence and the practice of thorough business principles in farming has succeeded admirably. He has two brothers, Thomas and Mike, among Ida County’s excellent citizenship and they all hold a warm place in the hearts of their  many acquaintances and their friends are counted by the score. They with a highly cultured and industrious family occupy one of the pleasantest homes in the county and their cordial hospitality is proverbial.

Hon. E.B. Baird

It is such a pleasure to write this brief sketch of our fellow citizen, Hon. E.B. Baird, as it is that of every honored pioneer of Ida County.  Mr. Baird was born in Onondaga County, NY, and his early life was passed on a a farm. In 1871 he came to Iowa and settled on the excellent farm of 160 acres he now occupies in Maple twp.  He was elected to the legislature from this district in 1873, the district then comprising the counties of Ida, Monona, Crawford and Cherokee, and therefore Mr. Baird was the first representative Ida County ever had in the legislative hall s of the state. During all the years of his citizenship he has been closely allied with the development of Ida County and a earnest advocate of those principles that to him seem for the best interests of the state and nation. A close student of passing events and political undertakes are elements of his character that have made him a useful and honored member of our common brotherhood.

Joseph R. Yousling

He was born in Pennsylvania, came to this county in 1879 and worked on a farm for his father, George Yousling. He moved to Ida Grove about two years ago, bought some railroad land, subdivided it and has thirteen or fourteen residences. He owns more residences than any other man in the city and intends building more. He is a good, reliable business man and has done much toward the improvement of the city. May he live long to enjoy this home and continue to prosper in the future as in the past is the wish of all his friends.

J.H. Beecher

He owns a forty acre farm adjoining our city. He was born in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, coming here twelve or fourteen years ago. He is a relative of the last henry Ward Beecher of world renown. J.H is  a man of good education, a member of the Church of God and has the esteem of many friends. he has a beautiful home  and with his wife and family enjoy all the good things of life in a way becoming to a good Christian family. Such  a family is an honor to any community.

Rev. D. Nicoll

He was born in Delaware County, NW and reared on a farm, he had applied himself so diligently in the public schools that he entered college at the age of twenty years. Early in life he determined to enter the ministry and t this end collegiate course was directed. When the call for volunteers was made by President Lincoln young Nicoll laid aside his text books and enlisted in Knapp’s celebrated Pennsylvania battery of artillery serving with distinction for three years. At the battle of Lookout Mountain in October 1863 he was severely wounded from the effects of which one of his arms is nearly useless.

After the war he returned to New York to resume his studies and graduate from Monmouth College in 1867. He then moved to DeWitt, Iowa and was pastor of the Presbyterian Church for fifteen years.  In 1884 he moved to Ida County and bought a farm in Battle twp., 320 acres.  Elder Nicoll is one of the most successful agriculturists in western Iowa because of his advanced thought and thorough practices in his business. He gives special attention to raising thoroughbred stock and conducts all his farming upon strict business principles. His residence is elegant, commodious and supplied with modern conveniences wherein a happy family live in cheerful love.  His philanthropy is proverbial, having erected a pleasant Sabbath house for the United Presbyterian brethren near his residence at the cost of $1500 where a membership of 50 and a large congregation worship each Sabbath and a flourishing Sunday School is kept up. He was triumphantly elected to the 25th general assembly in 1887 on the republican ticket and the people of Ida County desiring to reward him for his excellent services re-elected him in 1893, in both of which he served his constituents faithfully and conscientiously. In all the walks of life he is appreciated as one of our most valued citizens.

James Anderson

In writing the biography of this excellent gentleman our mind cannot refrain from coupling with it the thought of his worthy helpmate.  Mr. and Mrs. Anderson were both born in Ireland and came to this new world of liberty in 1875 and to Ida County in 1877 settling on a beautiful and rich farm in Silver Creek twp., where they now own and occupy 960 acres of the best soil on earth and enjoy the pleasures of home life in comfort beneath the roof of the finest residence in the township if not in Western Iowa. The farm is thoroughly equipped in every department. Elegant and commodious outbuildings, and a system of waterworks thoroughly supplied with all the modern machinery and all kept in strict accordance with business methods. Their palatial residence is supplied with all modern conveniences and elegantly furnished throughout.  In short it is a model home, a model farm and reflects the elegance and culture of a good old Irish ancestry. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson are the parent of Wm. Anderson of the banking firm of this city, and are holders in the financial institution.

David Warnock

David Warnock led the Warnock family in arriving in Ida County in 1869. Two years thereafter his father, Richard Warnock arrived , and his brother’s followed.  They settled in Garfield township where David now owns and occupies a rich farm of 540 acres. This fine tract of productive land is thoroughly improved, elegant buildings abound and modern agricultural conveniences are complete in every department. Dave, as he is called, is a month the substantial agriculturist  of the west and has his business thoroughly in hand, farm abundantly stocked and stands abreast of the good times, having through energy and good management made a grand success. The Warnocks have contributed an abundant share of muscle, brain and energy in the development of Ida County and are among its worthy and highly respected pioneer citizens. Four younger brothers of Dave are here and doing well, One, the doctor, F.B., resides in Battle Creek, Wm. and Lowry are in the hardware business in the same town, while Jimmy feeds cattle on his farm across the road from his elder brother.  The old lady and mother of these useful men, is still living a the ripe old age of three score and ten.

Andrew Preston

He was born in merry Scotland and is a worthy representative of the sturdy yoemanry of that liberty loving people.  He came to America in 1869 and to Ida County in 1872. Through practical and economical business methods in agriculture he has built a solid foundation for a competency and is considered authority upon agricultural matters.  Upon his 240 acre farm are all the conveniences and luxuries of home life, and on the length and breadth of his broad acres everything is in first class condition.   He is secretary of the Ida County Fair association, and active worker in church and Sunday School work and thoroughly awake to every interest of the county.

C.P. Frendendoll

The subject of this biographical sketch was born in Wisconsin and came to Ida County twenty years ago with nothing of worldly possessions except a large stock of pluck and perseverance. Those elements of character upon a firm foundation of integrity have served him well and he is now one of the foremost agriculturist in the county. He owns and occupies a 720 acre farm which is thoroughly stocked and under excellent cultivation out in the southwestern part of Battle. His residence and farm buildings are second to none and he stands high in the estimation of the people which is evidenced by being elected on the democratic ticket to membership on the county board of supervisors which position he now holds. In all his business he is thorough, honorable and upright and as a member of the board his sound judgment is wonderfully helpful to his colleagues and beneficial to his constituents.

P.W. Teghtmeyer

Our enterprising fellow citizen who was born in Pennsylvania, came to Ida County 15 years ago.  He was engaged in farming until he moved to town seven years ago and established a broom factory. The business has steadily grown under his management until he now employs three hands continually and during the busiest season many more. This season he uses the product of eighty acres of his own planting and purchases of all comers, paying the highest market price. his trade extends from Carroll to Sioux City and along the Central line as well. He owns a handsome residence east of the public school building and enjoys life in a pleasant household.

Louis Pedersen

He was born in Denmark and learned the shoemaker’s trade in that country coming to America five years ago.  He worked in the celebrated Fargo Shoe factory some time and came to Ida Grove about two years ago, working at first for R.S. Wasser.  Mr. Pederson is now running a shop of his own and is located in the new building of T.S. Brannan on Main Street. He is  a first class workman and merits a liberal patronage.

H.M. Whinery

He was born in Wilmington, Ohio and came to Iowa in 1869 and settled in Marshall County, Iowa, where he was engaged in farming until 1882 when he came to Ida County. In 1884 he bought out the grocery business of D.A. Babcock which he successfully carried on for three years. When the Fist National bank was established he entered heartily into the enterprise and was cashier thereof until it was sold to the management of the Ida County Savings bank. He is also active in church matters and is one of the foremost members and active workers in the Friends Church, and superintendent of the Sunday School He owns and occupies a beautiful home in the best portion of the city and ten additional business and residence properties, and is active in every laudable enterprise that tends to the upbuilding of Ida Grove and Ida County.

Chas. Brockman

He came to America thirty-one years ago and is an excellent blacksmith, having earned his trade in  the old country forty years ago. He now has one of the finest equipped shops in this city, everything with which to carry o on his work, which is done in the best manner.  He is honest, industrious and a man of good business ability. This has everything usually found in a first class blacksmith shop and is located on Main street.  He has a good home in our city, a fine family to help make life pleasant.  One of the features of his workmanship is that is never has to be done over again.

 Dan Murphy

The “Village Blacksmith”, we find a man of both brain and muscle. For forty years he has been a the forge. He was born in New York and came to Iowa in 1850 and for 39 years was in Dubuque County coming here in March 1895, and bought out the Forbes shop.  He has a large business and has in his employ seven men.  He does good, honest work and his charges are not exorbitant, and has made many friend during his year and a half residence in our city, who realize that Ida Grove has in Dan Murphy a good citizen and an honorable man. The shop is situated in the west part of town and his machinery is run from the power of the Central Roller Mills.

C.R. Blackman

C.R. Blackman, was born in Wabash County, Indiana, in 1864, a quarter of a century ago and moved to Dallas County Iowa, where his father, A.T. Blackman, engaged in the mercantile business. At an early age he entered his father’s store in the capacity of clerk, and has continued in that line of business ever since. In 1883 his parents moved to Ida Grove and four later Charles was taken into partnership in the large genera store, then operated by his parents, and continued until 1894 when the firm changed location by moving to Early, in Sac County. After a year’s residence in that place he decided to again become a resident of Ida Grove and in the fall of 1895 he became the proprietor of the grocery establishment owned and conducted by H.M. Whinery, and has conducted the same in a manner that has won him a large and appreciative patronage. his store is a large one, 24 x 80 feet, located on South Second Street, and is kept well stocked with staple and fancy groceries of all kinds, and a large complete stock of glassware and queensware. The farmers find a ready market for their country produce at this store at the very top prices, and our city people have always found it headquarters for fresh fruits and vegetables. Mr. Blackman was elected a member of the city council two years ago and will close his first term of service in that body with the satisfaction of knowing that he has been faithful to both the city and its best interests.   Although young in years, comparatively, he has had a most successful business career, and as our city increases in population we hope to see him succeed in business life proportionately.

               Ida County Business Directory    June 1897 

Notion Store-Hans Fugl

Millenary-Mrs. A.B. Chaffe, Mrs. N. Hansen, A. Freeman

Harness Shops-C.H. Meyers, B.F. Howell, B. M. Hester

Hotels- Hotel Cole, Farmer’s Home

Dressmakers-Wagoner Sisters, Miss Anna Williamson, Mattie Kinley, Mamie Soma,   

                      Emma Waack.

Dairy-W.C. Moorehead, G.A. Cobb

Ice-Ham Rankin, Fred Lainson

Postmaster-J.D. Harrington

Traveling Man-Cap. J.M Fibbs

Brick Maker-J.A. Wert

Brick Masons and Plasters-Lampson & Boughton, Ed L. Case

Jewelry-John Kegrice, C.A.L. Jensen, Lonie Rathjen

Meat Markets-Lease & Hess, J.P. Brechwald, J.H. Pritchard

Barber Shops-Keehn & Lancaster, Burger Bros., Lon Hitchcock, H.K. Knapp

Sample Rooms-D.C. Barnes, Peter Frahm

Stock Buyers-Rohwer & Putzier, AB. Bell, J.H. Belt, C.N. Clark, Cubbage & Wilkinson,

                      W. A. Shaw, Ben Buell, Wm. Pilcher, J. Lease.

Attorneys-Will E. Johnston, C.W. Rollins C.C. Walter, F.F. Kiner, Homer S. Bradshaw,

                 C.C. Warren, C.S. Macomber.

Physicians-J.E. Conn, E.C. Heilman, L.Q. Spaulding, G. Moorehead, T.A. Collett

Dentists-J.H. Besore, E.C. Besore, A.B. Clark.

Druggists-Loucks Bros., Barney Johnson, J.W Somers & Son.

Bankers-Anderson, Lipton & Co., J.T. Hallam, Baxter, Reed & Co.

Newspapers-Record, Era, Pioneer

Broom Factory-Peter Teghtmeyer

Proprietor Medicine-Dr. R.M. Getman

Opera House-The Williams and the Rink

Veterinarians- Geo Harvey, E.G. Piper

Creamer-Hallam & Hubbard

Bridge Building-James Phillips

Carpenters & Contractors-W.H Bassett, Wm Elser & Son, Hugh Nicoll, John Schmidt,

                         C.F. Barnes, Ed H. Barnes, Tim Cole, J.L. Ketterman, Kinsey Wiggins.

Laundry-W.M. Maine

Boarding Homes-Mrs. John Stakemiller

Wire Fence-W.L. Blair

Marble Works-Paul Wiggert

Painters-Eb Satterlee, H.E. Curry, D. Todd, George Grave, Clarence Warn

Horse Trainers-Bob & Will Mercer, H.W. McDonald

Furniture-E.C. Mille, Elma Furniture Co.

General Merchandise-A. Freeman, Rohwer & Putzier, Lusk & Davis, Record & Lynch,

                                    J.G. Mehring.

Restaurants-C.A. Britch, E.C. Meyers, Henry Boyce, J.P.Krick

Hardware-Wm. Mitchell & Co., John von Dohren, Sauer Bros.

Exclusive Boots & Shoes-R.S. Wasser, M.B. Farquahar

Exclusive Groceries-C.R. Blackman, Bleakly & Shearer, Weiser & VanWagoner, Geo. A.

                                 Cobb, C.E. Willcutt, A.E. Smith & Son.

Exclusive Clothing-A.C. Fish, Mose Simon

Exclusive Implements-P.Wilcutt

Insurance-Pettit & Riddle, Geo. C. Hubbard, V.S. Miller, E.C. Besore

Grain Dealers-Mitchell & Bossard, Sauer Bros., F.D. Babcock & Co., Great Western

                        Grain Co., E.P. Lund, manager.

Real Estate- Henry Dickson, W.T. Lynch, Jas Engle, Pettit  & Riddle, Scott & Cheney.

Wagon Makers-Lee Engle, A.V. McKown & Son, Geo. W. Cooper.

Blacksmiths-Beaver & Son, A.V. McKown & Son, D.M. Murphy, Geo. W. Cooper,

                    Chas  Brockman.

Shoemaker-J.E. Wiedehoeft, John Dvorshak, Louis Pedersen

Livery Stables-E.Varner, E.M. Reed, P.W.  Peterson

Drays-J.B. Hawk, A.B. Crockett, Ed Smith, Louie Kolb, A.S. Simon

Mills-Smith & Geiger, Geo. W. King

Cigar Factory-Brechwald Brothers

Book Store and Telephone Station-H.B. Pierce

Photgraph Galleries-N. Hansen, John Lynn

Money Loaners-Vern S. Miller, Noah Williams, S.S. Dilenbeck, F.L. Hadlock.

Tailors-N.Keiges, Godfry Michaels, Herman Meijerinick.

                           Holstein Business Directory June 1897

 City Officials-Wm Schippman, Mayor; Fred D. Theilman, recorder;  E. Schneckloth,

                    treasurer; J. Thode, assessor; Ike Calhoun, marshal; W.J. Cizek, H.M.

                    Danker, John Wents, Fred Knuth, V. Roush, E.S. Woodburn, councilmen.

Post Office-W.F. Hutton, postmaster.

Opera House-Turner Hall

Bank-Holstein Savings Bank, First National Bank

Hotel-The St. Elmo (M.D. Bardwell proprietor)

Merchandise Broker-G.B. Gilmore

Drugs-J.T. Walker

Jewelry-C.L. Volkers

General Store-Becker & Cheever, susserssors to S.B. Gilmore of the Cash Store

Lumber-Bowman & Kranz Bros., J.C. & H.G. Kranz, managers

Law & Insurance-White & McGuire-M.M. White, attorney, P.W. McGuire notary public

                             and auctioneer.  & Robert H. Smith

Dentist-Dr. H.R. Boulter, F.A. Johnson

General Store-Greve & Wents-John D. Greve and John Wents

Manufacturing-Henry Schneckloth

Lumber-Holstein Lumber Co. J.C. Kuchel manager, S.L. Rogers, bookkeeper.

Real Estate- W.H. Nolte

Furniture-W.F. Munz

Farm Machinery-W.F. Judiesch, proprietor to McCutchen & Judiesch

Newspaper-The Holstein Advance, W.F. Hutton, editor

General Merchandise-Otto Paustian

Sample Room-Henry Watke

Hotel-Holstein House, Fred Groszkruger proprietor

Boots & Shoes- F.Knuth

Mill-The Holstein Roller mills

Photographers-C. Muma, Carl Eberhardt

Market Gardener-G.A. Miller

Physician-Dr. G.H. Crane, Dr. J.C. Edgar

Hardware-Brinker Bros., Carstenson & Hanson

Clothing-P.L. Johnson

The Oak-Antone Grones

Carpenter & House Moving-H.M. Danker

Meat Market-Ferd Brechwald

Justice Of Peace-Wm Schippman

Saloon-Board of Trade, Henry Huss, prop.

Barber Shop-A.A. Smith

Restaurant-Wm Ordway, successor to M.A. Smith

Farm Machinery-J. Bertelsen, Jr.

Harness- Thos. H. Wilson

Train Agent-E.J. Woodborn

                          Galva Business Directory June 1897

Post Office-Charles Randall

City Officers- Dr. Bilby, mayor; M.H Ward, recorder; G.B. Whealen, treasurer; S.L.

                     Evans, marshal; Ira Conger, T.F. Ball, B.B. Berman, F.H. Otto, C.F. Berger,

                     Geo. B. Whealen, councilmen.

Bank-Exchange Bank of Crowley Bros. & Ackert (N.C. Crowely, president; W.A.

           Crowley, vice-president; C. Ackert-Cashier)

Newspaper-The Galve Tribune, C.B. Mitchell, editor

Lumber-W.T. Joyce Lumber Company, V. Hinrichs manager

Grain-Galva Elevator Co.

General Store-Whealen Bros. & Com.

Blacksmith-F.H. Otto, Oscar Nelson

Bank-Galva State Bank (B.E. Whealen, president; Geo. Whealen, cashier; Fred Voltmer,

           Wm. Hickery, Wm. Zwenke, John Nordstrom, Geo. Clapsaddle-directors.

Real Estate-S.K. Challman

Hardware-The Eagle Hardware Stor by H.E. Thomas

Livestock-Challman & Lease

Grain-Ira Conger

Barber-Palace Barber Shop, C.F. Burger, prop.

Furniture-R.J. Collins

Hotel-Commercial house, R.H. Sowers, prop.

Groceries-E.Miller

General Merchandise-Murray and Berman

Creamery-Galva Creamery, Robt. Jorgensen, prop.

Harness-H. Rhodes

Physician & Surgeon-A.M. Bilby

Drug Store-H.E. Wilkinson & Co.

Real Estate & Insurance-Galva Real Estate & Insurance Co., Thomas & Randall.

Dentist-Dr. F.A. Johnson

Livery Stable-H.E. & T.R. Kelley

General Post-Boyle’s Cash Store, B.M. Boyles & Com

Groceries-B.M. Miller

Train Agent-L. Couvey

                 Battle Creek Business Directory June 1897

City Officers-Mayor, Chas A. Peffer; Recorder, Louis Derr; Treasurer, V.W. Sylvester;

                     Assessor, Isaac hossler; Councilmen, J.L. Riedesel, G.W. Spitzer, S.C.

                     Moller, E.P. Smith, Sol Beard, Fred Bangs; marshal, Henry Etler.

Post Office-J.E. Harvey, postmaster

Opera House-Warnock & Keene, managers

Bank-Battle Creek Savings Bank (Alex McHugh, president; J.L. Riedesel, vice-pres.; A.

          Bassett, cashier; Charles Wirth, assistant cashier)

Hardware-Warnock Brothers, Pioneer Hardware Store-A. Ruggles, prop.

Newspaper-The Times

Farm Machinery-Keenan Bros.

Drugs-City Drug Store, V.W. Sylvester & Co.

Boots & Shoes-H.S. Smith

Jewelry-H. Kirkpatrick

Lumber-Green Bay Lumber Co.  S.C. Moller, manager

Restaurant-Ideal restaurant, J.P. Rinehart.

General Merchandise-W.H. James of the Pioneer Merchant

Lumber-Farmer’s Lumber Co., C.P. Fredendoll-president

Grain-Gray, Babcok & Sears  C.W. Hoyer, manager

Stock Farm-Wildwood Stock Farm  C.F. Hood, prop.

Farm Machinery-J.Hch. Scmid

Elevator-Geo. Sidwell & Co.

Hardware-J.S. Peffer & Son

Physicians-Dr. F.B. Warnock, Carl E. Conn

Market Gardening-E. C. Piersol

Hotel-The Windsor, Mrs. H.E. Sisk prop.,  Battle Creek House-Mrs .Henry Durst

Livery-I.V. Miller

Bank-Maple Valley Savings Bank (W.H. James, president)

Dray-E.P. Keith

Attorney-H.L. Hastings

Millenery-Williams & Varner

General Merchandise-E.A. Christiansen

Furniture-Andrew Stauch

Veterinary-Dr. J.T. Conn

Blacksmith Shop-The Pioneer Blacksmith, H.F. Stolley, prop.

Barber Shop-A.W. Holt

General Merchandise-Reidesel Bros.

Battle Creek Creamery-Peter Nielsen, manager

Mill-Burrow & Co.

Stock-Soesbe & McAllister

Train Agent-Fred W. Bangs

                    Arthur Business Directory June 1897

City Officials- Mayor, Fred W. Cole; Recorder, J.P. Hunter; Treasurer, B.C. Dilenbeck;

                      Assessor, Jno. Hoaglund; Councilmen-R.Whitaker, E.B. Page, E.O.Cole,

                      G.E. Clifford, J.C. Nickelson, K.P. Hundahl.

Bank-Bank Of Arthur (S. Dilenbeck, president; B.C. Dilenbeck, cashier)

Lumber-Arthur Lumber & Coal Company; J.J. Smith, president; Wm. Colvin, vice

             President; G.E. Clifford, sec. and manager)

Drugs-D.Hopkins & co.  J.P. Hunter, manager

Harness-I. Arthur, also Justice of the Peace

General Merchandise-F.W. Cole

Hotel-Joseph Hemer, prop.

Farm Machinery-Adam Auchstatter

General Merchandise-E.B. Page

Blacksmith-John C. Nickelsen

Elevator-St.Paul & Kansas City Grain Co.  E.O. Coles, manager

Grain Dealer-R. Whittaker

Physician-Dr. F.W. Keehl

Train Agent-Karl P. Hundahl