James H. Merrill was elected sheriff of Mitchell county in October, 1863, and served for two years. Mr. Merrill came to Mitchell county with the Chase party, and was married to a sister of Dr. Chase. There were two of his brothers with him -- Frank and Edward. The latter went into the army and died; J. H., went to work at masonry, which was his trade; became deputy of various county offices, and was finally elected sheriff. He remained until about 1873, when he removed to Maywood.

 

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From: History of Mitchell and Worth Counties, Iowa, 1883; page 249.

Transcribed by Gordon Felland, March 2005.