J. H. McDonald, one of the enterprising self made men of Pottawattamie County, Iowa, resides in section 14, Wright Township. He was born in Steuben County, New York, May 2, 1852, son of William and Savilla (Rising) McDonald, the history of whom will be found on another page of this work. His mother died when he was only five years old. He was a robust lad of fourteen when his father moved to Bureau County, Illinois, where he grew to manhood on a farm, and was educated in the public schools. In 1875 he came to Iowa and located in Adams County, remaining there two years. At the expiration of that time he took up his abode in Pottawattamie County, and has since made this place his home.

In March, 1881, he purchased his present farm of 160 acres, which was then wild prairie land. By judicious management and much labor he has made it one of the best in the community. The first season he broke the soil, and in 1882 he built a house, 14 x 24 feet, one and a half stories, with a one story addition, 12 x 24 feet. He planted an orchard of two acres and a grove, which are now in a flourishing condition; built stables, cribs, eighty feet of sheds, and a granary, 14 x 20 feet. He has 150 feet of tight board fence which is six feet high. One hundred acres are being cultivated and the rest of the farm is devoted to stock purposes. At this writing Mr. McDonald has thirty head of cattle and 100 hogs. Two of the former are registered thoroughbred Shorthorns. He also has some draft horses of a high grade. A modern three horsepower windmill raises the water for household use, and forces water through pipes to the feedlots. Mr. McDonald has an attachment by which he can make use of this power to grind grain for stock purposes. Everything on the premises is arranged with reference to convenience, all showing the enterprise of the owner.

July 3, 1877, Mr. McDonald married Martha E. Tie, a lady of intelligence and refinement, who has been a true helpmate to her worthy husband. She was born in Racine County, Wisconsin, daughter of Joseph and Sarah (Spriggs) Tie, now prominent wealthy citizens of Wright Township, Pottawattamie County. They were both born and reared in England. Mr. Tie is the present Township Trustee.

Mr. and Mrs. McDonald have five children: Jay Carroll, John H., Ray B., Ira Elmer and Lilly May. Their first born, Willie, died at the age of three months. Politically Mr. McDonald is independent, casting his vote for whom he considers the best man for the office.