This township lies in the second tier from the south, and is the smallest civil township in the county.  It is bounded on the north by Toledo Township, on the south by Columbia, on the east by Otter Creek and on the west by Indian Village.  The Iowa river crosses the township, and makes one of the most beautiful and fertile valleys in the State.  The stream furnishes a limited natural water power, which has been greatly increased by artificial means, and is partly utilized.  Deer creek enters the township from Toledo on the north and makes confluence with the river on section 34.  A good share of the township is composed of timber land, while there is considerable beautiful rolling prairie.  The soil is of a dark rich loam which is very productive.

There are three railroads passing through, C. M. & St. P., Chicago & Northwestern and Toledo & Northwester.  There is only one town in the township, Tama city, the largest place in the county.

SETTLEMENT.

A journey through this section of country, a glance at its towns and villages, or a close inspection of its many improvements, would impress one with the belief of a much older settlement that actually exists.  It seems incredible, that in the space of thirty years, such a change could be wrought; nevertheless, it is a fact, that this is comparatively a new country, and it is apparent that its pioneers must have been men of push and energy.  Having natural resources above most places, Tama township and her present condition can be accounted for, surprising as it may seem to the casual observer.  The early settlers of this section made a good selection of locality, yet many of them could not endure the isolation incident to pioneer life, and returned to the places from whence they came, or moved to points more congenial to their tastes, little thinking that within a few years the land would be fully occupied, the various branches of trade and industry represented and the land teeming with wealth and prosperity.  It is, however, the case elsewhere, as well as here, that the first settlers of a country do not generally remain to reap the harvest and receive the reward.  Those who came early and have remained, as a rule, are in comfortable, if not affluent circumstances, and many who came later, knowing full well the immense power of stream, and wonderful possibilities of soil here presented, shrewdly took in the situation and made investments, which have surpassed their most sanguine hopes, and to-day thrift, enterprise and industry characterize the citizens of Tama township.

During the fall of 1849, Rezin A. Redman and John C. Vermilya, came to what is now Tama township and each located a farm of 160 acres, and then returned to their homes in Jackson county, Indiana.  During the summer of 1850, they formed a company in that county, consisting of Rezin A. Redman, John C. Vermilya, J. H. Hollen, W. L. Brannan, Samuel J. Murphy, James Umbarger, William Blodgett and William T. Hollen to come to this country and locate.  In the fall Redman, Brannan, Umbarger, Murphy and J. H. and William T. Hollen left Jackson county, came by teams, and arrived here about the 25th of October, of that year.  Brannan, Umbarger and Murphy, brought their families and immediately began the erection of a log house on the southeast quarter of section 25, township 83, range 15, on the land entered by Redman.  Some time during the fall Brannan, Umbarger and Murphy moved to Iowa county.  The Hollens also left about the same time for Indiana.  Redman remained until the middle of December, when he also returned to Indiana, leaving his stock and property in charge of William Boze, an employee.  In the spring of 1851, William Blodgett came and located on the southwest quarter of section 26, and is now a resident of Tama City, and is the oldest living settler in the township.  He also came from Indiana.

Some time during July, 1851, Redman came with his family, but remained only one year, when he again returned to Indiana.  Vermilya, with his family, arrived in March, 1852, and settled on the northeast quarter of the southwest quarter of section 26, where he still remains.

J. H. Hollen with his family, arrived April 27, 1852, and settled on the southwest quarter of the southeast quarter of section 27, and is still an honored citizen of the county.

William T. Hollen, came and located permanently, in May, 1852.  He settled on the southwest quarter of section 26.

J. H. Hollen, one of the original Indiana company, who made the first settlement in Tama township, was born near Brownstown, Jackson county, of that State, December 8, 1820.  His father, Andrew B. Hollen, was a native of Green Briar county, Virginia, and served in the War of 1812; his mother was born in Mercer county, Kentucky.  He was reared on a farm and received but a limited education, it having been confined to the common schools of that day.  In 1850, he made his first trip to Tama county, and two years later, settled on section 27 of Tama township, where he entered and purchased 200 acres of land, a greater part of which is now occupied by the thriving town of Tama City.  Until May, 1882, Mr. Hollen was engaged in farming; since that time he has been extensively engaged in shipping stock to Colorado and Wyoming.  He was the first postmaster of Toledo when that office was located in the present township of Tama, and was also one of the first Justices of the Peace of the county, having been elected in April of 1853, at which time he was obliged to go to Vinton, Benton county, to qualify.  Mr. Hollen held the office of Justice of Tama City from 1873 until 1876.  He was one of the first directors of the Tama School Board, and has always taken a deep interest in educational affairs.  In politics, he is a Democrat first, last and always.  He is a Master Mason and a member of Hiram of Tyre Lodge of Tama City; also a member of Dorio Chapter.  Mr. Hollen has always taken an active interest in the building up of Tama City, owning at one time nearly all of the land upon which the town stands.  He has spared neither pains nor expense to make it one of the leading towns of Central Iowa, and has ever been ready to give to any enterprise that would further the advancement of the place he has nourished with so much care.  In 1843, he was joined in wedlock with Miss Eliza A. Graham, a native of Jackson county, Indiana, and together they have fought life's battles for forty years.  Ten children have blessed their union, four of whom are now living: Addie, wife of Dr. S. Thompson of Toledo; Eva, wife of C. D.  Terry, of Tama City; Katie, wife of F. R. Holmes of Wyoming Territory and Clarence.

W. L. Brannan, another of the Indiana party, is a son of Moses and Casandra (French) Brannan, and is a native of Indiana, born in Dearborn county, February 10, 1821.  When he was ten years old the family removed to Jackson county, Indiana, and there he followed the life of a farmer until eighteen years of age.  At that time he learned the carpenter's trade, which occupation he followed for many years.  In 1850, he, in company with others, came to Tama county, Iowa, but instead of settling here, determined to locate in Iowa county.  There Mr. Brannan followed his trade for four years, and then returned to Tama county, settling in

[Transcriber's note: Pages 951 & 952 are missing and may be a portrait, the beginning text on page 953 seems to be a continuation from page 950 and when portraits are inserted, they usually take up 2 pages.]

Toledo, where he continued to reside until 1864, at which date he removed to Tama City, where he still resides.  He followed his trade until 1874, and since that time has been Justice of the Peace two years, and Marshal of the town six years.  During 1843, he was united in marriage with Miss Minerva S. Umbarger, a native of Washington county, Indiana.  Five children were born to them, one of who is now living: Leonidas H., now proprietor of the Northwestern Hotel, Tama city.  Mr. Brannan was called to mourn the death of his wife in 1854, and he so cherished her in memory that he has never re-married.

Soon after this, settlers began to arrive rapidly, locating in other townships adjoining this settlement.  At this time the territory of Tama was a part of Toledo township, but these settlements were made in what is now embraced in the civil township of Tama.  Among other early settlers in this vicinity were Norman Lewis, E. Harmon, Andrew Jackson, W. Croskrey, Isaac Maden, James Burge and others.

Norman Lewis settled in Otter Creek township, in April, 1854.  Upon his arrival, he purchased 350 acres of wild land on sections 27 and 22; 300 acres of it was prairie, and the remaining fifty acres, timber.  during the following summer he erected a log house on section 27, and in January, 1855, removed his family to their new home.  Norman Lewis is a native of Suffield, Hartford county, Connecticut, born August 23, 1813, and is a son of James and Desire (Remmington) Lewis.  His father and mother were also natives of Suffield.  Mr. Lewis traces the genealogy, on his father's side, to the landing of the Pilgrims at Plymouth Rock.  His youth was spent on his father's farm, and at seventeen years of age he was apprenticed to a blacksmith.  Subsequently he worked in the United States Armory, at Springfield, Massachusetts, and also was engaged for about six months in the Colt's pistol manufactory.  In 1836, he came as far west as Ohio, settling in Medina county, where he lived until the fall of 1849, at which time he lost his first wife, Lucy (Kent) Lewis, to whom he was married in May of 1836.  She bore him four children, of whom one is now living.  Upon leaving Ohio, Mr. Lewis returned to Connecticut, where he remained a few months, then went to Springfield, Massachusetts, where he was married December 24, 1857, to Angeline E. Cleveland.  In less than two years the husband was called to mourn her death; she died August 7, 1853.  He was again married, February 8, 1854, choosing for a help-meet, Elizabeth L. Foster, a native of Hartford, Connecticut.  In politics Mr. Lewis is a Republican, and while in Otter Creek township, he held the office of Justice of the Peace, and at one time was county Supervisor from that township.  He was also the first postmaster of Tamaville postoffice, receiving his appointment from Franklin Pierce, and continuing to discharge the duties of that office until Abraham Lincoln became President.  In August, 1864, he bought his present place in the northern part of Tama City, where he has since erected a fine residence.  In 1867, he embarked in the lumber business, at Tama City, in which trade he continued six years, and since that time has led a comparatively retired life.  He is a member of the Baptist Church of Tama City.  Mr. Lewis had four children by his first wife: Mary Jane, born February 4, 1837, died May 30, 1838; Louisa D., born October 19, 1838, died March 22, 1858; James H., born June 13, 1840, now living in Furnas county, Nebraska, and Luther K., born July 20, 1846, died August 18, 1846.

Andrew Jackson is a native of Madison county, Indiana, born October 21, 1833.  He is a son of Samuel and Sarah (Wood) Jackson, who were born in North Carolina.  Andrew's early life was spent on his father's farm and he obtained his education in the common schools, of his native State.  In February, 1850 the family removed to Wabash county, Indiana, and in 1855, Andrew came to Tama county, arriving here on the 3d of June.  Shortly after, he returned to Indiana, and during the fall of the same year, again came west.  He spent the winter in Toledo, and the following spring located on a rented farm north of that place.  During the spring of 1858 he removed to Missouri and subsequently to Indiana; and in 1861 returned to Tama county.  In the summer of 1864 he purchased a farm in Indian Village township, and in connection with agricultural pursuits, was engaged in stock dealing.  From 1870 to 1875, he was engaged in shipping blooded short-horn cattle from Kentucky to Tama county.  At the end of that time he purchased a farm of 240 acres just northeast of Tama City, and now owns that farm and also 400 acres in Indian Village township.  For the past three years Mr. Jackson has been largely engaged in shipping stock cattle west.  In politics he is a strong Democrat, and has always taken an active part in the political affairs of the county.  During 1855 he was united in marriage with Miss Catherine Quick, a native of Rush county, Indiana, a daughter of Elizabeth Quick.  Eleven children have been born to them, eight of whom are living - Monroe, Mary, Albert, Emma, Wilbur, Eva and Effie, (twins) and Charles.

Wesley Croskrey was born December 25, 1827, in Muskingum county, Ohio.  He is a son of Robert and Mary (Hudson) Croskrey, who were also natives of that State.  Wesley's education was received in his native county, and there he passed his youth and the first few years of his manhood.  In 1856 he removed to Tama county, Iowa, and settled on his present farm, on section 32, Tama township.  Mr. Croskrey has disposed of 100 acres of land to the Indians, but still owns a fine farm of 300 acres.  He was married in 1851, to Miss Sarah McDonald, a native of Ohio, and a daughter of William and Lydia (Schofield) McDonald.  Eight children have been born to them, five of whom are now living: Robert, whose home is now in the State of Minnesota; Eliza, Joseph, Sadie and Johnny.

On the 1st of May, 1856, Isaac Maden located at Toledo, Tama county, Iowa.  He is a son of James and Elizabeth Maden, and was born in Lawrence county, Indiana, December 29, 1825.  He remained in his native county until seventeen years of age, and then came west, making his first settlement in Whiteside county, Illinois, where he was engaged in working on a farm; he was living there at the time of the "land riot," which occurred in 1846.  In 1856 he left that State and emigrated with his family and worldly goods, which, all told, consisted of one team of horses, to Tama county, Iowa.  Mr. Maden first located at Toledo, where he was engaged in teaming until the fall of 1858 when he settled on the place where he now resides.  He earned $400 with his team during the first four months of his residence in Toledo; but by the failure of the parties for whom he had worked, he lost it all, as he had taken their notes instead of the cash.  Probably no one man in Tama county saw more hardships, or overcame greater obstacles during the pioneer days of the country, than did Isaac Maden: but success was his watchword, and he bravely conquered all.  He now owns, in Tama county, 220 acres of land, 140 of which is under a high state of cultivation, and the remaining eighty well under way.  Twenty acres of his farm lie within the town corporation, the farm being just one mile south of the heart of the city.  In 1847 he was joined in wedlock with Miss Burnetta Lewis, a native of Arkansas.  Six children have blessed their marriage: Emma, wife of Joseph Shaller; Lucinda, wife of Byron Knowles; Emery, Monroe, Benjamin F. and Lydia.

James Burge is a son of William and Ann Burge, and was born in England on the 5th of April, 1823.  In 1829, the family emigrated to America, locating at Albany, New York, where the father died in 1882, at the advanced age of eighty-seven years; the mother died during 1855.  James remained in that city and in other parts of New York, until 1851, at which time he removed to Davenport, Iowa, where he was engaged in the tobacco trade five years.  He then came to Tama county, and during the space of eleven years was engaged in the saw mill business at Toledo.  At the expiration of that time Mr. Burge settled on section 28 of Tama township, where he now owns 495 acres of land.  In politics he is a Republican, and has been Township Trustee for two years.  In 1833, he was joined in wedlock with Miss Ellen S. Hooghkerk, a native of Lansingburg, New York.  They have three children living; Ellen Ann, wife of A. H. Tree, of Cedar Rapids; William and James.

ITEMS OF INTEREST.

The first log house was built during the fall of 1850, on land entered by Rezin A. Redman on the southeast quarter of section 25.  The first frame house was built, during the fall of 1857, by J. H. Hollen, near the southeast corner of the southwest quarter of the southeast quarter of section 27.  This house is still standing in Tama city and is now owned by G. H. Burt.

The first marriage united the destinies of George W. Wier and Miss Mary Rush, and took place at the residence of the bride's parents on section 23.  The ceremony was performed by Judge John c. Vermilya.

The first birth was a son, Willie, to J. H. Hollen and wife, on the 9th day of February, 1853.  The second birth was a son, Ewing, to William Blodgett and wife, December 10, 1853.

The first death was that of Willie Hollen, April 1, 1853, at the age of one month and twenty-two days.  He was buried in what is now Oak Hill cemetery.

POSTOFFICE.

An office was established December 13, 1853, called Toledo, on section 27, at the residence of J. H. Hollen, who was the first postmaster, receiving his appointment from James Campbell, Postmaster-General.  This place is now in Tama City.  At that time it was on the route from Marengo to Marietta, and mail was received once a week when the carrier could cross the river.  This route was on the south side of the river and at times the water was so high that it was impossible to ford it.  Often when the carrier was afraid to cross, Mr. Hollen would swim the river and transfer the mail in a pillow case.  He remained postmaster and the office was kept at his house until removed to the town of Toledo, in October, 1855, when he was succeeded by John Zehrung.

Mr. Hollen's report for the first quarter, from February 11, to March 31, 1853, showed:

 The second report, form April 1, to June 30, showed:

The report for the third quarter showed:

ORGANIC.

The county board at its September session divided township 83, range 15, and set apart the two south tiers of sections for a civil township, to be known as Tama, and ordered that the first election be held at the school house in Tama City, on the 3d of November, 1868.  Accordingly the first election was held at the above mentioned time and place, N. Lewis, E. Harman and S. W. Cole being the Judges of Election, and the clerks, B. A. Hall and F. J. M. Wonser.  The officers elected were: R. M. Wells, John fife and N. G. Wheaton, Trustees; E. Harmon and James Burge, Justices of the Peace; Thomas J. Smith and W. T. Hollen, Constables; A. M. Batchelder, Clerk; James McClung, Assessor; Frank Patterson, collector.

1869 - W. A. Newcomb, Justice of the Peace; N. Lewis, John Fife and R. H. Ryan, Trustees; A. M. Batchelder, Clerk; William E. Newcomb, Assessor; F. J. Smith and C. B. Barnard, Constables.

1870 - M. A. Newcomb, Justice of the Peace; B. A. Hill, William Gallagher and C. B. Bentley, Trustees; B. W. Homan, Clerk; T. J. Smith and W. T. Hollen, Constables.

1871 - W. P. Parker, N. Lewis and C. B. Bentley, Trustees; B. W. Homan, clerk; R. H. Ryan, Assessor; Thomas W. Carter and T. Avery, Constables.

1872 - Eli Harman and J. G. Strong, Justices; James Burge, Assessor; E. N. Merchant, Clerk; L. Merchant, G. Hollenbeck and John Fife, Trustees; J. J. McAllister and A. Cory, Constables.

1873 - No records could be found.

1874 - J. H. Hollen and W. L. Brannan, Justices; W. T. Hollen and J. C. Kendrick, Constables; J. Brice, Jr., John Fife and W. G. Cambridge, Trustees; B. F. Moreland, Clerk; C. E. Tyner, Assessor.

1875 - B. A. Hall, James Burge and W. Hartsell, Trustees; A. Smith, Clerk; d. Toland, Assessor.

1876 - Charles McClung and J. D. Sherman, Justices; D. Wilcox and W. T. Hollen, Constables; W. E. Newcomb, James Burge and W. Hartsell, Trustees; W. H. Albrecht, Clerk; C. Jackman, Assessor.

1877 - T. W. Carter and C. L. McClung, Justices; D. Toland, Assessor; T. Williamson, Clerk; W. Hartsell, John Fife and Thomas Brice, Trustees.

1878 - G. D. Sherman, Justice; James Burge, Assessor; E. L. Carmichael, Clerk; H. Day, Trustee.

1879 - J. S. Deterick, Assessor; E. L. Carmichael, Clerk; H. E. Ramsdell, Trustee.

1880 - J. J. McAllister and C. L. McClung, Justices; H. O. Conley, Assessor; C. M. birdsell, Clerk; H. Day, Trustee.

1881 - John fife, Trustee; E. Harman and C. L. McClung, Justices; Thomas Williamson, clerk; W. T. Hollen and D. Mahana, constables.

1882 - A. Jackson, Trustee.

David Toland, present Assessor of Tama township, is a native of Beaver county, Pennsylvania, where he was born August 4, 1818.  He is a son of James and Mary Ann (Laird) Toland, who were born in Maryland, and married in Washington county, Pennsylvania.  About the year 1826, they removed to Columbiana county, Pennsylvania, but when that county was afterwards divided, they were in the part divided off as Carroll county.  David was reared on a farm and received a good education, notwithstanding the fact that the country schools at that time were few in number and many miles apart.  On the 23d of December, 1841, he was united in marriage with Miss Nancy Merrick, a native of Carroll county, and a daughter of Isaac and Martha (Johnson) Merrick, who also were born in Pennsylvania.  While David and his wife were living in that county four children were born to them: James W., Isaac W., William J. and Andrew A., all of whom are living except William J., who was killed by lightning in 1876.  During 1851 the family removed to Van Wert county, Ohio, where Mr. Toland was engaged in farming.  In that county, Mary M., David S., Alonzo W. and Thomas A. were born to them.  In 1865, they came to Iowa and settled on section 31, of Tama township, Tama county.  Mr. Toland owns ninety-two acres there, and 160 acres in Highland township, all of it being under cultivation.  Their youngest child, Frank E., has been born to them since their settlement in this county.  In politics, Mr. Toland is a staunch Republican.  He is the present Assessor of the township and has held the office for the past five years, and in November, 1882, was re-elected for a term of two years more.  Two of their sons, James W. and Isaac W., served their country during our late rebellion, enlisting from Ohio.  The eldest was wounded at the battle of Mission Ridge and has never entirely recovered from it.  Mr. and Mrs. Toland are members of the Presbyterian Church.  Mr. Toland held the office Justice of the Peace for three years in Ohio, and would have been re-elected but declined.  He is a man of extensive reading, fond of history and well posted on all topics.

TAMA CITY.

This town was first named Iuka, in honor to the soldiers of Tama county, who participated in the battle of Iuka, Mississippi.  J. H. Hollen entered the land upon which the town was laid out, and, in 1862, sold to John I. Blair the east thirty-five acres of the northwest quarter of the northeast quarter of section 34.  This part constituted the town of Iuka, and most of the business part of Tama City now stands on the old town site.  At the time of platting Iuka, there was standing on the present site of Tama City, the residence of B. A. Hall, on of J. H. Hollen and on of W. T. Hollen.  The first house of any kind built on the site of Iuka was built by Michael Welch in 1862, for a railroad boarding house.  The house has been improved a little at times and is still occupied by his widow.  Other houses soon followed until in a short time it began to have the appearance of quite a town.  The first store was opened by J. H. Beaumont in a small frame building located where the First National Bank now stands.  He moved his stock of goods from Marietta, Marshall county, to this place during the fall of 1862.  During the summer of 1863, he moved his building to where the City Hotel now stands, and it now forms the ell part of that building.  The second store was opened by c. K. Bodfish in the fall of 1863, who moved his stock and building from Chelsea, this county, and located it on the ground formerly occupied by Beaumont, where the First National Bank now stands.  This building is now used by Frank Skinner as a jewelry store.  M. C. Murdough was the third to cast his fortunes in the little town with a stock of goods.  He came in January, 1864, and occupied what is now used as the office of the commercial Hotel.

Iuka as a trading point began to have a wide reputation and other merchants soon followed.  Even before the railroad reached here this place assumed important business proportions.  However, many of the trades were not represented until some time later.

The first blacksmith to locate here was C. H. Warner, who opened business in the shop now owned by W. H. Cummings, in 1862.  He remained but a short time, when it was sold to Speilman & Owens.  It was afterward owned by Speilman alone until it was bought by W. H. Cummings in December, 1867.  Mr. Cummings still carries on the business.  There are two other shops in the town, by Elias Price and E. S. Beckley.

W. H. Cummings, one of the blacksmiths of Tama City, was born in Ireland, February 18, 1842.  He crossed the Atlantic to America in 1855, locating in Buffalo, New York.  Shortly after his settlement in that city, he began learning the blacksmith trade at a place eight miles from Buffalo, in Canada.  Subsequently he worked at his trade in Dunkirk, New York.  In 1867 he came to Tama City, where he opened a blacksmith shop and has always enjoyed a liberal patronage.  He is at present one of the Town councilmen, having held the office three terms.  In December, 1860, he was united in marriage with Miss Bridget Mulligan.  They have five children living: James Edward, John H., Sarah M., Anna B. and Rose May.

The first wagon shop was opened by M. C. Wilson, November 10, 1865, in a small frame shanty, where he is now located.  In 1866, he tore down this shanty and erected his present shop where he is still engaged in wagon manufacturing.  M. C. Wilson was born in Augusta, Georgia, on the 28th of August, 1828.  His parents were Sherwood and Anna (Bellingsley) Wilson, natives of Scotland.  Seven years after his birth the family removed to Ohio, and afterwards to Indiana, where his father died in 1861.  At an early day the subject of our sketch learned the trade of wagon making, which occupation he has since followed.  In 1847, he enlisted in the Sixth Indiana volunteer Infantry, under colonel Drake, and served through the Mexican war.  At President Lincoln's first call for troops in 1861, Mr. Wilson enlisted in Company I, Second Iowa Volunteer Infantry, in the three months service.  At the expiration of his term of enlistment, he came to Marion, Iowa, and in 1862, re-enlisted in Company F, 20th Iowa Infantry, and after serving fourteen months, was honorably discharged on account of disability, which was the result of a fall received at the battle of Prairie Grove.  He then located at McGregor, Iowa, and eighteen months later removed to Cedar Falls.  In 1865 he came to Tama city, where he opened the first wagon shop in the place.  Mr. Wilson was married in 1861 to Miss Celia Leonard, a native of Zanesville, Ohio.  Five children bless the union: Charles, Fanny, Addie, Mary and Edward.

The first to establish in the produce, butter and egg trade, was Thomas Whitaker, who opened here in the spring of 1863, and still does a large business.

R. E. Tewksbury established here in the same branch of trade in May, 1881, and does a business of $75,000 annually, buying through all of Central Iowa.  His shipments are mostly to Boston and other eastern markets.

Thomas Whitaker, the first produce dealer in Tama City, is a native of New York, born in the town of Cherry Valley, Otsego county, May 28, 1816.  He is a son of James T. and Prudence (Sydleman) Whitaker.  His mother was born in Connecticut, and his father in New York.  His grandfather, Thomas Whitaker, was a Major in the Revolutionary war, and distinguished himself at Fort Plain, where with thirty men he held the fort against Brandt and 700 Indians.  Mr. Whitaker's father was an Adjutant in the was of 1812.  He died when Thomas was fourteen years of age, leaving him, as the eldest child, to take care of the family.  He remained in his native county until 1842, and while there ran a hotel in Cherry Valley for nine years, and was Sheriff of his county for six years.  At that time for a public officer to do his duty was almost certain death, and though not suffering that fate, he was once taken by the anti-renters to Schoharie county and tarred.  In 1842, he came far west as Chicago, where he dealt in horses.  During the fall of 1853, he removed to Tama county, Iowa, first locating in Otter Creek township, where he tilled the soil for two years and then removed to Toledo, engaging in the produce trade.  Upon the completion of the railroad he settled in Tama City.  In politics he is a Democrat and has been a member of the City Council for one term.  He was married, in 1841, to Miss Wealthy Ann Farnham, of Otsego county, New York.  Six children were born to them, four of whom are now living: William F., George A., Elizabeth and Mary.  James and Menzo died aged fourteen and six years respectively.  Mrs. Whitaker died in 1861, and three years later, Mr. Whitaker chose for a help-meet Martha Thompson, of Ohio.  They have one child living - Nellie.  James T. died at Tama City, September 28, 1873, aged sixteen months.  When Mr. Whitaker was twenty-one years of age he was elected Captain of a militia in his native town, in which company his father and grandfather had previously served.

The first drug store was opened by John Shanklin in the building now known as the Tama House.  The drug trade is well represented by H. Soleman, who established in 1867, R. M. Coffin and Frost & Vanderliss.

H. Soleman, one of Tama City's most enterprising business men, is a son of Garrett and Angeline (Mounther) Soleman, born in Woodville, Sandusky county, Ohio, November 7, 1842.  In 1855, his father's family came west to Tama county, Iowa, and Henry spent the first three years of his life in this county on his father's farm near Toledo.  His school advantages were very limited, but he nevertheless has, through his own efforts, acquired a good business education.  At about sixteen years of age he began clerking in a dry goods store at Toledo; and when Tama City began to build up, came here with J. L. Stuart.  In 1863, Mr. Soleman, in company with B. F. Myers, opened livery stables at Tama City and Toledo, which they continued about fourteen months, when they sold.  In the spring of 1867, Mr. Soleman came to Tama City, and in company with A. W. Thompson, opened a drug store.  In about one year Mr. Soleman purchased his partner's interest and has since conducted the business alone.  In October, 1866, he was married to Miss Carrie Armstrong, daughter of T. K. Armstrong, of Toledo.  They have had two children: Alta, born July 4, 1869; and Fred, born August 1, 1877.

BANKS.

The first banking institution in Tama City was established by Thayer & Lucas.  It continued about one year, when it was removed to Clinton, Iowa.

G. H. Warren was in the banking business in Tama City for a number of years.

The First National Bank of Tama City was organized in 1871, with a paid up capital of $50,000.  The following named gentlemen were among the original stockholders in the institution:  B. A. Hall, W. H. Harrison, W. B. Avery, G. H. Warren, W. F. Johnston, R. Richman, C. E. Covell, John Ramsdell, A. J. Tyler, C. E. Hayes, J. Brice, Jr., and E. Harman.  At a meeting of stockholders, B. A. Hall was elected President and G. H. Warren, Cashier.  They held these positions until 1880, when they were succeeded by J. L. Bracken, as President and A. P. Starr, as Cashier.  Under the management of these men, the bank has taken front rank among the moneyed institutions of Tama county, affording abundant security to depositors.  According to the statutes, the stockholders are held personally responsible to double the amount of their stock.  The following is section 5151 of the Revised Statutes, governing National Banks: "The stockholders of any National Banking Association shall be held individually responsible, equally and ratably, not one for another, for all contract debts and engagements of such association to the extent of the amount of their stock therein, at par value thereof, in addition to the amount invested in such shares."

The following is the report of the condition of the Bank at the close of business March 13, 1883:

RESOURCES.

LIABLILITIES.

The present Board of Directors is composed of the following named: J. L. Bracken, J. Brice, Jr., C. E. Hayes, E. Ruggles, B. A. Hall, John Ramsdell, A. J. Tyler and A. P. Starr.  The foregoing together with W. B. Avery, P. Starr, C. E. Covell, D. W. Reed, S. A. Reed, H. R. Van Dusen and E. M. Hall comprise the present stockholders.  The present first National Bank building was erected in 1871, at a cost of over $10,000.  It is located on the northwest corner Third and McClellan streets.  Taking the good standing of the stockholders and the fine management of its officers into consideration, the First National Bank of Tama City is well worth the confidence of its patrons and the people of Tama county.  The correspondents of the bank are: First National Bank, Chicago; United States National Bank, New York.

Arthur P. Starr, cashier of the First National Bank of Tama City, is a native of Windham county, Vermont, born December 13, 1855.  His early life was spent attending school in his native town, his purpose being to fit himself for a business career.  Later, he entered, and in due course of time, graduated from the Business College at Poughkeepsie, New York.  Subsequently he spent four years as teller of the People's National Bank of Brattleboro, Vermont, of which his father was President.  In 1879, he came to Tama city, and soon after accepted the position of book-keeper in the first National Bank, and in January of 1880, was elected cashier of the same.  Mr. Starr is a man of clear, keen and shrewd business ideas, and is building up for himself an enviable reputation as a careful financier.  He was united in marriage, October 25, 1882, to Miss Florence Murray, daughter of Thomas Murray, of Tama City.

The Bank of Tama was organized in 1871 as the banking house of Carmichael, Brooks & Co., with L. Carmichael as President; J. H. Brooks, vice President and G. E. Maxwell, cashier.  In 1873 the name of the bank was changed to the Bank of Tama, which name it has since retained.  It was opened in a building one block north of where it now stands.  In 1874 the present structure was built by L. Carmichael at a cost of $7,500.  The fixtures of the bank cost $1,400.  It is fitted with a large and thoroughly fire proof vault, and uses the Yale Time Lock.  J. H. Brooks withdrew in 1875 and in 1879 G. E. Maxwell withdrew.  It has since been carried on by L. Carmichael & Son, L. Carmichael being president, which office he has held since its organization, and and E. L. Carmichael, cashier.  Their correspondents are the National Bank of America of Chicago and Chase National Bank of New York.  The bank has a capital of $18,000.  The following is a statement of the bank at the close of business, December 30, 1871:

RESOURCES.

LIABILITIES.

In contrast with the foregoing, the following statement of the condition of the Bank of Tama, published at the close of business, December 30, 1882, is given:

RESOURCES.

LIABILITIES.

Lewis Carmichael, President of the Bank of Tama, was born in Middletown, Orange county, New York, on the 7th of May, 1825.  He is a son of Z. and Sarah (Eldred) Carmichael, who were also natives of New York.  At fifteen years of age, he began railroading on the Delaware and Hudson Canal railroad, and finally, by hard work and close application to business, he arose to the responsible position of Assistant Superintendent on the Hudson River railroad.  In 1851, Mr. Carmichael removed to Indiana, where he took charge of railroad building.  Subsequently he built a large portion of the Michigan Southern railroad, also contracted and built part of the Chicago & Rock Island railroad across the State of Illinois, and during the time built the first tunnel in the State, at LaSalle.  In 1840, Mr. Carmichael returned to the east and engaged with the New Albany & Salem Railroad Company, and in 1842, engaged with the New York & Erie Company.  In 1865, he contracted to build a large portion of the Union Pacific, built the road almost across Iowa, and also in Nebraska and Utah, being engaged on the work until 1869.  He has also built no small part of the Chicago & Northwestern railroad, through Wisconsin and Iowa; also six miles in Iowa, between Council Bluffs & St. Louis, on the Wabash railroad, and three miles between Anamosa and the State prison quarry, on the branch of the Chicago & Northwestern.  Mr. Carmichael built the entire line of the Toledo & Northwestern railroad from Tama City to Minnesota line.  He had charge of the workmen in unloading the first locomotive ever brought to Louisville.  It was shipped by river from Pittsburg.  Mr. Carmichael has just completed sixty-six miles of railroad in the Peninsula of Michigan, and is known as one of the most successful contractors in the west.  In 1857, he removed his family to Tama county, settling in Otter Creek township, where, for a number of years he was quite extensively engaged in farming.  In 1868, he located in Tama city, and in 1871, became engaged in banking business.  Today he stands at the head of one of the soundest banks of the county - the Bank of Tama.  In politics, the subject of this sketch is a staunch Republican, and in religion he is a Baptist.  He is a Mason and received the 32d degree at Lyons, Iowa.  In 1847, he was joined in wedlock with Miss Mary E. Bunce, a native of Hartford, Connecticut.  Nine children were born to them, eight of whom are living: Mary Ella, now wife of Geo. E. Maxwell, a resident of Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts; Henry F., a hardware merchant of Tama City; E. L., cashier of the Bank of Tama; Charles H., cashier of his father's railroad business; Stephen D., Aggie M., Hattie and Lina May.  Mr. Carmichael was called to mourn the death of his wife on the 4th of March, 1873.

E. L. Carmichael, cashier of the Bank of Tama, was born in Muscatine, Iowa, February 14, 1857.  His parents are Lewis and Mary E. (Bunce) Carmichael.  Shortly after his birth, the family removed to Tama county, where they have since resided.  E. L.'s education was obtained in the Tama City public schools, and at the Davenport commercial College, which latter he attended during 1874-5, graduating in June, 1875.  Upon completing his education, he immediately entered the Bank of Tama as book-keeper.  In May of 1879, he was appointed cashier, which position he still holds.  Although a young man, Mr. Carmichael enjoys an excellent reputation for thoroughness in business; and the success of the bank is largely owing to his good business qualities, combined with his genial, pleasant manner.  January 30, 1879, he was joined in wedlock with Anna Spofford, daughter of J. B. Spofford, a former resident of Tama City.  They have had one son, Edwin Earl, who died at Tama City, February 25, 1883, aged three years and two months.

The first warehouse was brought here from Chelsea, during the fall of 1862, by C. K. Bodfish, who purchased the first grain bought here.  This warehouse was afterwards changed to an elevator, and was burned in 1872.  The building stood where the Monarch billiard hall now stands.

The first elevator was built by P. K. Hayden, in 1863, and stood where the present large elevator stands.  It was burned at the same time with the other in 1872.  There are at present several firms in the grain trade, Bracken & Goodell taking the lead.

The first hardware store was opened by J. L. Wagner in a building now occupied by Jacob Gatjens as a meat market.  The hardware business is at present represented by E. G. Penrose and H. F. Carmichael.  E. G. Penrose established in the hardware trade in 1872, in the building now occupied by Carmichael.  In the spring of 1881, he moved to his present location, where he does a business of $25,000 annually.

One son, Frank B., born July 14, 1871, blesses their union.  Mr. Penrose's father died, in March, 1880, his mother on the 1st of May, 1883.  He is a member of the Masonic order, Hiram of Tyre Lodge, No. 203, and of the St. Bernard Commandery, No. 14, of Belle Plaine.  He is also a member of the A. O. U. W., of Tama City.

H. F. Carmichael, hardware dealer, and eldest son of Lewis Carmichael, is a native of the hawkeye State, born in the town of Muscatine, December 9, 1854.  A few years after his birth, he came to Tama county with his parents.  His educational advantages were the public schools of Tama City, and during 1873-4, he attended the Rivermore Military Academy of Poughkeepsie, New York.  In 1875, he entered the Bank of Tama as book-keeper and teller, holding that position three years.  During 1879, in company with B. A. Hall, he engaged in the hardware business; since 1881 he has been alone in the business.  Mr. Carmichael is a member of the Masonic Fraternity, St. Barnard Commandry, No. 14, of Belle Plaine, Iowa, and has taken the degree of Knight Templar.  On the 29th of December, 1875, he was united in marriage with Miss Mary E. Hall, daughter of B. A. Hall, of Tama City.  Two children bless this union: Louie, born December 24, 1876; and Frank, born July 16, 1880.  Among the very oldest of Tama City's general merchants, is J. Brice, Jr.  He is a native of Washington county, Pennsylvania, where he was born November 27, 1838.  In 1852 he removed, with his family, to Ogle county, Illinois, where he engaged in clerking until the second year of our late rebellion.  He then enlisted in Company H, 92d Illinois Infantry, and after serving one year, was honorably discharged on account of disability.  During 1865, he came to Tama city and became engaged in the grocery business.  Subsequently he added a dry goods department, and is now one of the most thriving business men of the town.  In politics, he is a staunch Republican, and in religion, he believes in the Methodist doctrines, being a member of that Church.  In March 1858 he was joined in the holy bonds of matrimony with Miss Sarah J. Hill, a native of Waverly, New York.  Two children bless this union:  William E. and Maud.

The first livery stable was started by B. F. Myers & co., in 1863.  They opened one at Toledo at the same time.  Soleman Brothers are the present principal liverymen.  H. K. Miller and M. C. Murdough are also in the business.

The agricultural implement trade is represented by three firms: H. Soleman, who established in 1878, and does a large business; E. S. Carpenter & Son, who succeeded W. H. Hawk in 1883; and McClung & Peak, who succeeded McClung & Carpenter.

James McClung, of the firm of McClung & Peak, is a native of New York, born in Seneca county, July 31, 1826.  He is a son of James and Maria (Conklin) McClung, the former a native of New Jersey, the later of Pennsylvania.  His grandfather James, served as a private in the Revolution.  In 1834, his parents came west to Ohio where James remained until 1852, attending the district school until twenty years of age, then went to the Academy at Republic, Ohio, and afterward taught school.  In 1852, he went to California and until the fall of 1855, engaged in mining and express business.  In 1856 he came to Iowa and taught the grammar school at Tipton for one year, when he was elected Superintendent of Schools, of Cedar county, and served two years.  He then served for three years as County Surveyor, and resigning, went to Davenport, Iowa.  Soon after, he went to Montana, where he spent a year and a half, and then returned to Iowa and settled in Tama City.  He first engaged in teaching school for one year, then in company with others built the flouring mill at this place, and continued in business one year, since which time he was engaged in the lumber business for ten years, as agent for W. J. Young & co., of Clinton.  In March, 1881, in company with G. W. Carpenter, he engaged in the agricultural implement business, which partnership was continued until the spring of 1883, as the firm of McClung & Peak.

Mr. McClung was one of the original members of the Tama City Water Power Company, and has been one of the Directors ever since the organization of the company.  He was married, in 1858, to Miss N. J. Gregg, a native of Ohio.  They have four children living: Fanny B., now Assistant Principal of the Tama City schools; Burtis W., now at Mount Vernon college; and Florence.  Fanny attended the Iowa State University, and also one year and a half at Mount Vernon college.  She has been teaching in the schools of Tama city for two years.  In politics, Mr. McClung is a Greenbacker.  He is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

E. S. Carpenter, of the firm of E. S. Carpenter & Son, is a native of Ohio, having been born in Noble county, of that State, July 31, 1841.  There he received his education and reached his majority.  During 1864 he enlisted in company G, 174th Ohio Infantry, and served his county until honorably discharged at Columbus, Ohio, in the fall of 1865.  He participated in the battle of The Cedars, the battle at Decatur, Alabama, and was also in the engagement at Kingston, North Carolina, besides being in several skirmishes.  At the close of the war he returned to his native county, and in March of 1869, came to Tama county, Iowa, locating in Howard township.  There he remained until December of 1877, when he settled on his present place on section 27, of Columbia township, where he now owns 160 acres of land.  In politics he is a Republican.  While living in Howard township, Mr. Carpenter held the office of Justice of the Peace four years and was also Constable of the town some time.  At present, he is one of the Town Trustees of Columbia.  His marriage with Miss Ellen House, a native of Noble county, Ohio, occurred in 1860.  They have eight children living: George W., Armada C, Nathan E., Sarah A., Evelena, Harvey C., Edna E. and Hilda M.  Early in 1883, Mr. Carpenter and his son, George W., purchased the business of W. H. Hawk, of Tama City.  They took possession February 15, and under the firm name of E. S. Carpenter & Son, are now doing a large business in agricultural implements, wagons, carriages, barbed wire and all goods found in a well assorted ware-house of that character.  They will soon add a complete stock of hardware.

W. H. Hawk, formerly dealer in agricultural implements, is a native of Canada West, having been born 100 miles west of Toronto, on the 6th of January, 1847.  He is a son of Piercifer and Jeanette (Lawson) Hawk.  He remained at home helping his father with the farm work, until he had attained his majority and then came to Tama county, Iowa, settling in Perry township, where he engaged in farming until 1876.  At that time he embarked in the agricultural implement business, at Tama City.  Mr. Hawk is a much respected resident of the town and enjoys an extended trade.  March 13, 1873, he was joined in wedlock with Miss Dora A. Granger, a native of Michigan.  Four children have blessed their union, three of whom are now living: Walter, Aggie and Frederick.