Joseph Milnes was born in Lowell, Massachusetts, August 17, 1831, and in 1842 came with his father's family to Clyde, where he has since resided. On the 8th of March 1860, he married Miss Jennie Mason of Chicago. Their children are: Thomas H born March 25 1861; Lizzie M born April 12 1862; George S born July 10 1864 and Cora A born April 18 1866. Mr Milnes has held the position of Town Clerk of Clyde township for 12 years, Collector 3 years, and has been annually elected Supervisor of the township since 1873. These public positions so repeatedly bestowed, show the high estimation in which he is held by his fellow citizens. During his residence in Clyde he has accumulated a valuable property, lying in sections 21, 27 and 28. As a member of the Board of Supervisors, he is active and vigilant in the discharge of his duties, and brings to the position a sound judgment, and an intelligent understanding of the needs of the county.

Bent & Wilson History of Whiteside County Page 149