WILLIAM BEYER, a substantial farmer near Walnut, Iowa was born in Schleswig, Germany in 1851. His father, Madison Beyer, was a farmer and landowner. He was married to Annie Ramburg and to them were born five children: Hans, William, John, Julian and Charley. Julin was the only son, besides our subject, who came to America; he lived on a farm north of Walnut. The father is still living in Germany, and both he and his wife are members of the German Church. He was a sailor and captain when a young man.

William, our subject, became a sailor when he was sixteen years of age, but he followed the sea only five years. He came to America in 1872 settling in Scott County where he lived two years. In 1874 he came to Pottawattamie County where he purchased 160 acres of land in company with his brother Julien. By hard work Mr. Beyer has added to his land until he now owns nearly 200 acres, all of which is in a good state of cultivation.

In 1876 he married Caroline Coffman, daughter of Charles Coffman, and to them have been born five children: John, deceased in infancy; Charles, also deceased in infancy; William, August and Amanda. Both Mr. and Mrs. Beyer are members of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Beyer has held the office of Road Supervisor, is a thorough farmer, and an honest and upright man. He is doing his share to build up the great State of Iowa to which the German element has been an honor and a substantial aid.

Contributed by: Darlene Vergamini