Poweshiek County, Iowa
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HON. HENRY W. SPAULDING.
Hon. Henry W. Spaulding, one of the most prominent and leading citizens of Poweshiek county, is at the head of the Spaulding Manufacturing Company, makers of carriages and automobiles at Grinnell and one of the largest manufacturing firms in the west. In the fall of 1910 he was honored by election to the state senate, now representing the twelfth district in that body.
His birth occurred in the northern part of Vermont on the 29th of June, 1846. When still but a boy he removed with his parents to a farm in Orange county, that state, continuing to reside thereon until nineteen years of age, when he bought his time from his mother and started out in business life on his own account. After working at various occupations for two years he built a shop in Chelsea, Vermont, hired a good blacksmith and began to learn the blacksmith's trade, occasionally building a buggy. In the course of a year or more, having two or three finished buggies on hand and creditors pressing him for money which was due them for stock, he took two buggies, hitching one behind the other, and started out to sell them. Having made the sales, he returned and settled his most pressing debts. This was the origin of the trailing system, which has been followed by the Spaulding Manufacturing Company for the past thirty-five years with success. After carrying on business in Chelsea for about two years, H. W. Spaulding sold out and went to work as a journeyman smith in different shops.
About two years later he entered the service of Jacob Estey & Company, organ manufacturers of Brattleboro, Vermont, and at the end of about three months was put in charge of their blacksmithing department. He remained with the firm of Jacob Estey & Company for about three years and then went on the road for the Wiley & Russell Manufacturing Company of Greenfield, Massachusetts, manufacturers of screw cutting machines, selling machinery for about four years and traveling as far west as Iowa and also into Canada.
This state impressed him favorably and on the nth of April, 1876, he took up his abode in Grinnell, here beginning business as a blacksmith and carriage manufacturer on a small scale. The first year he turned out about fifteen new vehicles, annually increasing the number until on the 1st of January, 1883, he was manufacturing about three hundred and fifty carriages a year. On the I7th of June, 1882, owing to a disastrous cyclone, Mr. Spaulding sustained a heavy loss financially and also suffered severe physical injuries. On the 1st of January, 1883, he sold a half interest in the business to A. P. Phillips & Son, the name of the firm becoming Spaulding, Phillips & Company. Their business gradually increased
until on the 1st of January, 1887, they were taking care of eight hundred jobs a year. At that time Phillips & Son withdrew and M. Snyder held their interest for one year, the name of the concern being Spaulding & Snyder. Their annual output was nine hundred vehicles. On the 1st of January. 1888, Graver, Steele & Austin purchased the half interest of Mr. Snyder, who retired. The firm then continued business under the style of Spaulding & Company and in 1888 manufactured two thousand vehicles. Wishing to push their Headers, Craver, Steele & Austin withdrew from the company and Mr. Spaulding conducted business independently for one year. On the 1st of January, 1890, M. Snyder and William Miles each bough a fourth interest in the concern, the name of which was changed to the Spaulding Manufacturing Company. At the end of a year Mr. Spaulding purchased Mr. Snyder's interest, then owning three- fourths of the business. In the decade between 1890 and 1900 the output of the company was increased from two thousand to four thousand vehicles annually. On the 8th of March, 1893, the Spaulding Manufacturing Company sustained a loss by fire of from fifty-five to sixty thousand dollars, and the insurance paid thereon was eighteen thousand five hundred dollars. On the ist of January, 1900, F. E. and E. H. Spaulding, sons of H. W. Spaulding, bought out William Miles and have since remained partners of their father, holding a third interest each. In 1903 the concern manufactured and sold six thousand and one vehicles, while at the present time their annual output numbers ten thousand vehicles and employment is furnished to three hundred people. Their vehicles are sold direct to the consumers and find a ready sale in all the southern, western and northwestern states. For the past two years they have also manufactured automobiles. The plant of the company covers almost an entire block and a part of another. The house from the beginning has sustained a reputation for undoubted integrity and reliability in its methods that has made the name of Spaulding a synonym for commercial honor in Grinnell. Mr. Spaulding is now and for about fourteen years past has been a trustee of Grinnell College, manifesting a deep and helpful interest in the institution.
He is likewise a prominent factor in financial circles as the president of the Citizens National Bank of Grinnell and is a director in many other institutions. He deserves great credit for what he has accomplished, since his prosperity is entirely due to his own labor, his utilization of opportunity and his persistency of purpose. Mr. Spaulding has been twice married. In October, 1872, he wedded Miss Miriam J. Lull, by whom he had three sons, namely : Harry E., who died at the age of twelve years ; F. E. ; and E. H. The wife and mother was called to her final rest in 1888 and in 1903 Mr. Spaulding was again married, his second union being with Miss Aimee M. Haight, whose birth occurred near Aurora, Kane county, Illinois, January 4, 1870. They are the parents of two daughters, Alice C. and Henryetta W., both of whom were born in Grinnell. In politics Mr. Spaulding is a stanch republican and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, have called him to several positions of public trust. For one term he served as councilman and for a similar period discharged the responsible duties devolving upon him as mayor of Grinnell. In the fall of 1910 he was elected to the state senate from the twelfth district, comprising Keokuk and Poweshiek counties. In that body he is now ably and creditably serving, taking an active part in the business that is transacted in council chambers of the state. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Congregational church, to which his wife also belongs and of which he is a trustee. In all of his business relations Mr. Spaulding has been thoroughly reliable and in his treatment of employees is just and considerate. Without the aid of influence or wealth he has risen to a position among the most prominent men of Iowa and his native genius and acquired ability are the stepping stones on which he has mounted.
[History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]


DAVID SUTHERLAND MORRISON
David Sutherland Morrison, one of Grinnell's foremost citizens, is at the head of the Morrison & Ricker Manufacturing Company, his associates being B. J. Ricker and Frederic Morrison. His birth occurred in Bath, New Hampshire, on the 23d of October, 1851, his parents being Frederick W. and Anna (Sutherland) Morrison, extended mention of whom is made on another page of this work. He was but four years of age when brought by his father and mother to Grinnell and was reared to manhood under the parental roof. Following
his graduation from the Grinnell high school he took up the study of civil engineering in Iowa College and during his three years' attendance at that institution spent each summer in the field with an engineering corps.
An older brother, Leon, died about the end of that time and the growth of his father's business called for his assistance in its conduct. When about ready to enter the factory he received information to the effect that the civil engineer under whom he had spent his summers as transit man had been awarded the contract for the extension of the Burlington & Missouri from Plattsmouth, Nebraska, to Denver, and would give him charge of a division if he would accompany him. The offer meant one hundred and fifty dollars per month, an attractive salary to a young man of twenty-one years, but his father told him that the business needed him more and so the die was cast and he entered manufacturing circles. From that time to the present his efforts have been an important factor in the successful control of one of the principal industrial enterprises of Iowa. Prior to 1872 all the gloves in the Grinnell factory had been cut by hand but in that year Mr. Morrison went to Gloversville, New York, to purchase dies for cutting and also instituted other modern methods to keep pace with the increasing business. In 1876 Frederick W. Morrison died and our subject succeeded him as the head of the concern. In the intervening years various changes have been made in the style of the firm, Mr. Morrison first having as partner Andrew Mclntosh, then E. C. Wadsworth and next E. A. Wadsworth, the son of his previous associate. In 1903 the interest of Mr. Wadsworth was purchased by B. J. Ricker and Frederic Morrison, a son of David S. Morrison. However, the business was conducted under the name of Morrison & Mclntosh until 1907, when Mr. Mclntosh withdrew and the present firm style was adopted. In connection with his duties as the head of an extensive and important manufacturing concern Mr. Morrison also acts as vice president of the Grinnell Savings Bank.
He possesses untiring energy, is quick of perception, forms his plans readily and is determined in their execution, and his close application to business and his
excellent management have brought to him the high degree of prosperity which is today his. It is true that he became interested in a business already established but in controlling and enlarging such an enterprise many a man of even considerable resolute purpose, courage and industry would have failed, and he has demonstrated the truth of the saying that success is not the result of genius but the outcome of clear judgment and experience.
On the 15th of April, 1876, Mr. Morrison was united in marriage to Miss Fannie Ricker. Her father, Edward Ricker, made his way from Kewanee, Illinois, to Scott county, Iowa, at an early day and subsequently took up his abode among the pioneer residents of Grinnell. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Morrison have been born six children, the record of whom is as follows : Nellie, who graduated from Grinnell College with the class of 1899, is now the wife of Dr. P. E. Somers, of Grinnell. Frederic, who completed the course in Grinnell College in 1911, is a partner of his father in the Morrison & Ricker Manufacturing Company. Addie, a Grinnell College graduate of 1902, is the wife of Charles F. Chase, of Mason City, Iowa. Frank H. is at present employed by his father but has decided to embark in the lumber business in Idaho in the near future. Julian and Donald are both high school students.
Mr. Morrison is a stanch supporter of the republican party, believing that its principles are most conducive to good government. He has served on the town council for three terms and for a similar period has been a member of the board of education in Grinnell. He is a valued member and a trustee of the Congregational church, to which his wife and children also belong. His life has been well spent and in all his career he has been sincere and upright in his purposes, honorable principles guiding him in all of his relations with his fellowmen.
[History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

ERASTUS SNOW.
Although nearly a decade has elapsed since the demise of Erastus Snow his personality was too strongly impressed upon the community where he had resided for so many years for him to be readily forgotten. A man of rare ability and possessing a high sense of public duty he is remembered as an agriculturist, financier and legislator, but probably best as the citizen who was always willing to contribute both his time and money to forward any movement for the general good of the community. Of Puritan extraction, the early principles fostered in a New England home remained with him throughout life.
His birth occurred in Winchester. New Hampshire, on the 19th of September, 1819. He was reared in the paternal home to the age of twelve years, acquiring his education in the common schools of his native town. One evening after he had passed his thirteenth birthday he was reading the paper by the firelight when his eye was caught by an advertisement which read, "Wanted, a boy in a printing office. Apply here." Being an ambitious lad, he was most anxious to begin his business career and so applied to his father for permission to take the position. Ten minutes later Mr. Snow placed within his pocket a note for fifty dollars, bearing the signature of little Erastus, remarking as he did so that he would always have something coming to him. The mother, however, thought better of her son than that and replied, "That note will be paid." It was to this early confidence reposed in him by his mother that Erastus Snow attributed much of his success in after life. At times when everything looked hopeless and he was ready to give up or was sorely tempted to compromise with right he would remember his mother, and her belief in him gave him renewed courage and enabled him to conquer conditions rather than to permit them to conquer him.
The note, which he had given his father, was to compensate the parent for the lad's time and services up to the time he had attained his majority, which at that period was deemed to be the right of every parent. At the expiration of three years it was canceled, in confirmation of his mother's trust, although the lad had only received fifty dollars for his first year's service, which sum was doubled the second and tripled the third year. Before he had attained his majority he had lifted the mortgage from the old homestead, thus relieving from anxiety the latter days of his parents. Mr. Snow did not follow his trade for many years, simply using it as a stepping stone to something higher. Returning to his old home he worked in the bank for a while but believing that the west afforded better opportunities for men of limited means he removed to Iowa. Upon his arrival here he first located in Davenport, where he resided for two years, and then removed to Poweshiek county, buying some land east of Grinnell, in the cultivation of which he was engaged when elected president of the First National Bank, following which he came to town to live. He served most efficiently in various public capacities during the long period of his residence here, having been elected to both branches of the legislature as well as to the board of supervisors. The latter office he held at the time when the matter of railroad bonds was being so strongly  agitated in the county, but probably his most notable service was in assisting the School district to cancel its early indebtedness. After leaving the First National Bank, of which he was the first president, he became connected with the Grinnell Savings Bank, subsequently assuming the management of the Granger store for a number of years, while he was also identified with the Farmers Mutual Insurance Company. During the latter years of his life he withdrew from all public activities and returned to his farm, where he resided until: December, 1893, although he rented the land. He then removed to Grinnell, where he was living at the time of his demise on the 1st of March, 1902.
On the 17th of October, 1887, Mr. Snow was united in marriage in Boston, Massachusetts, to Mrs. Harriett E. (Haskell) Waterhouse, whose husband had been killed in the first battle of Bull Run. He was a member of Company C, First Minnesota Volunteer Infantry. Mr. and Mrs. Waterhouse were living in Minnesota when the war opened but after the death of her husband she returned to the east, settling in Boston. She was a daughter of Thomas and Hannah (Johnson) Haskell, natives of Maine, in which state the father, who was a strong abolitionist, engaged in agricultural pursuits until his demise in 1852. His wife survived until 1872. Three children were born unto Mr. Snow by a former marriage but the daughter passed away when she was twenty-four years of age, and the two sons are also deceased.
His political allegiance Mr. Snow ever accorded the men and measures of the republican party, believing its principles were best adapted to protect the interests of the general public, but he favored free silver. He early adopted for his motto the old adage "Be sure you are right then go ahead," which became the governing principle of his life. [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

JOHN E. DEMPSTER.
John E. Dempster, who owns a farm of three hundred and twenty acres of good land in Chester township, Poweshiek county, and is now living retired, has made his home in Iowa for fifty-two years and is well acquainted with the resources of the state and the history of its development since the Civil War. He is a native of Morgan county, Ohio, born January 3, 1837, and is a son of Thomas and Phebe (Lane) Dempster, the former born on the eastern shore of Maryland and the latter in Dutchess county, New York. The ancestors upon both sides of the house fought in the Revolutionary war, the Crafts, who belonged to the maternal branch, being driven from the ground where the battle of White Plains, New York, was fought. The paternal grandfather moved with his family in the early part of the nineteenth century to Morgan county, and there passed the remainder of his days. Thomas Dempster came to Iowa with his family early in the '60s and settled in Scott county, near Davenport, on a farm of one hundred and twenty acres. He was successful in his business and acquired two hundred and eighty acres. He died in this state and is buried at Vail in Crawford county.
John E. Dempster, of this review, was the second in a family of seven sons. He attended the district schools and worked on his father's farm, coming to Scott county, Iowa, March 5, 1859, his eldest brother having preceded him to this state. He applied himself industriously to agriculture and stock- raising and became one of the well known and popular citizens of Scott county. He was commissioned captain of the militia September 17, 1864, and served in that office until the close of the war. He taught school several terms in his early manhood and also purchased an interest in a threshing outfit, with which he was connected for several years. In June, 1868, he bought a farm of one hundred and twenty acres and as the years advanced his prosperity increased until he became the owner of two hundred and eighty acres of good land in Scott county. Since 1900 he has lived in Poweshiek county, where he owns three hundred and twenty acres, which are cultivated by his sons, as he retired from active work several years ago.
In 1868 Mr. Dempster was married to Miss Esther E. Burch, a daughter of Ira and Catherine (Deyo) Burch, and to this union three children were born, two daughters and one son : Emma E., who married E. W. Fisher, a farmer of Chester township, and has three daughters, Esther E., Ruth M. and Dorothy E. ; Mary J., the wife of W. W. Sherman, of Ottertail county, Minnesota, and the mother of three children, Harold W., Edith M. and Bernice; and John J., now living upon his own farm, who is married and has two sons, J. Gaylord and Keith G. The mother of these children died December 24, 1873, and Mr. Dempster was again married in 1875, his second union being with Miss Josephine Fitzsimmons, a daughter of Felix Fitzsimmons, a contractor of New York state. Three children were born of this union, two sons and one daughter: Alden H., who married Oral J. Neely and has two children, Gertrude J. and Mildred L. ; Edna A., who lives at home ; and Roscoe, also living at home. In politics Mr. Dempster gives his allegiance to the republican party and for many years was one of the active workers for its success. He served as secretary of the independent school district of Linn Grove from 1868 to 1899, a record which probably has never been surpassed in Iowa. He also filled the office of township clerk for three terms. In 1897 he was elected a member of the state legislature from Scott county, filling the position with an ability that reflected upon him the highest credit. He also served in charge of the United States census of 1890 for Scott county. He displayed an interest and efficiency in all his official duties which met the hearty approval of the people, his constant aim being to promote the public good. Successful as a business man and farmer he now enjoys a rest, which he richly earned, and also possesses the confidence and esteem of all who know him. [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

WILLIAM F. VOGT.
Starting out for himself as a young man with the laudable ambition to win for himself an honorable place in the world, William F. Vogt has succeeded, perhaps, even beyond the brightest expectations of his earliest years, and today he is living retired on a beautiful farm in Poweshiek county, while his sons are carrying forward the work which he began. He is a native of Scott county, Iowa, and was born June 9, 1848, a son of John C. and Catherine (Graff) Vogt, both of whom were born in Holstein, Germany. They were married in the old country and came to America in 1847, locating on a farm in Scott county, Iowa, where Mr. Vogt established his home. Educated in the district schools William F. Vogt grew up under the friendly shelter of the parental home and was early made acquainted with the many details of agriculture and stock-raising. Even as a boy he showed special adaptability to agricultural pursuits, and as he grew to manhood it became evident that he was destined to become a successful farmer. He continued at home until after he had reached the age of manhood and then began farming on his own account in his native county. In 1883 he came to Poweshiek county and for twenty-two years applied himself to farming and stock raising with most gratifying results. In 1905 he moved to Grinnell, and after living for three years in the city returned to the country and took up his residence on a farm which he had acquired adjoining his old homestead. Here, surrounded by every comfort that can be desired, he is enjoying the fruits of many years of labor. He is an extensive landowner, being the possessor of one thousand and nine acres in Poweshiek county, and also of land in Jasper county and three hundred and twenty acres in Minnesota. In addition to his agricultural interests he is vice president of the Citizens Bank of Grinnell, of which he was one of
the founders. He is also a member of the board of directors of the Brick & Tile Company of Grinnell, and is a man whose judgment in business affairs is greatly respected wherever he is known.
On the 13th day of March, 1875, Mr. Vogt was united in marriage to Miss Wilhelmina Brockman, a daughter of C. H. and Anna (Sindt) Brockman, both of whom were born in Germany. The family came to America and located in Scott county, Iowa, where the father engaged in farming. He passed away in 1898, but the mother is still living on the old homestead with her son. Ten children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Vogt, namely: C. J., who married Sadie Evans, of Grinnell township and now lives on the home farm ; Harry C., also on the home farm ; Walter E. and Otis B., both of whom are on the home farm ; Clarence, who is now a student in the common schools ; Grover Cleveland, who is living with his parents ; William McKinley ; Anna C. ; Julia A., who received a high school education and is now teaching at Montezuma ; and Mildred C., at home. Mr. Vogt and his estimable wife are sincere members of the German Lutheran church and active workers in its behalf. By his ballot he supports the principles and candidates of the republican party, being allied with the progressive element, which believes that the party has within itself the resources and ability to correct the evils of government as they arise. He has always been enterprising and public-spirited and few men have contributed more materially to the welfare of the community. As a result he has a host of friends in Poweshiek county who do not hesitate to declare that William F. Vogt is a model citizen. [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]


JACOB SCHULTZ.
The largest and finest home in Malcom township stands as a monument to the energy, industry and determination, successfully directed along agricultural lines, of Jacob Schultz, one of the most prominent and substantial citizens of this locality. He was born in Bureau county, Illinois, on the i6th of October, 1857, a son of John and Mary (Piel) Schultz, both natives of Prussia, Germany. The father's birth occurred on the 10th of March, 1820, and the mother's on the 2d of February of that year. They were married in the fatherland and came to the United States in 1854, locating first in Bureau county, Illinois. Ten years later they came to Poweshiek county, Iowa, and here cast in their lot with the early settlers of this district. The father, who was a ship contractor in his native country, took up the occupation of farming upon his arrival in the United States and was therein engaged until the time of his demise. The old homestead upon which he located on coming to Malcom township was all unbroken prairie land when it came into his possession, and he and his son were the only white men who have had any part in its cultivation and development. He was unusually successful in his agricultural undertaking and at one time owned one thousand acres of land in Malcom and Sheridan townships which, however, was all disposed of to his children either before or after his demise. He was a stanch democrat in politics and in religious faith was a member of the Lutheran church.
He donated a portion of the old homestead as a site for that church and until the end remained one of its loyal and substantial supporters. He was the eldest in a family of eight children, all of whom came. to the United States with the exception of a sister. They were as follows : John ; Christ, Charles, Gust and Henry, all deceased ; Fred, of Grinnell ; Henrietta, who married John Ahrnes, and is now deceased ; and a sister who passed away in Germany. In the family of John and Mary (Piel) Schultz there were six children, namely : Charles, deceased ; Lena, who passed away in childhood ; Fredericka, who married Lawrence Liedke, of Malcom ; Minnie, the wife of Louis Puls, who is mentioned at length on another page of this volume ; Jacob, of this review ; and Fred, of Malcom township. The parents of this family are now deceased, the father passing away on the 25th of October, 1884, and the mother on the nth of April, 1891, their remaining days being spent in the home of our subject.
Spending the first seven years of his life in his native county, Jacob Schultz, whose name introduces this review, accompanied his parents in 1864 on their removal to Poweshiek county, and he has since resided on the homestead farm here which his father purchased at the time of his arrival. His education was acquired in the country schools and he received a thorough practical training in the home fields, early becoming familiar with the tasks that fall to the lot of the country lad. He continued to give his assistance to his father until the lat- ter's death, since which time he has carried on agricultural pursuits independently upon the portion of his father's estate which- he inherited. This farm consists of two hundred and eighty-three acres located on the northwest quarter of section 3, Malcom township, and is one of the best equipped and most valuable properties in this section. Here Mr. Schultz has introduced all of the conveniences and accessories of a model farm of the twentieth century and upon it are to be found twelve substantial outbuildings, all topped by good shingle roofs, and all, with the exception of one barn, were erected by him.
In 1910 he built a beautiful thirteen-room residence, thirty-two by sixty feet, with two stories and a basement, frame and finished in hard pine. It is equipped with every modern improvement to be found in a city home, including a lighting, heating and water plant, and is the largest and finest home in Malcom township. Mr. Schultz carries eleven thousand, five hundred dollars insurance on his buildings, and the splendid condition of his farm speaks in no uncertain terms of the substantial degree of success which has come to him. He engages in general farming, but a large portion of his time and attention is devoted to his stock- feeding interests, fattening from eighty to one hundred head of cattle per year and raising from one to two hundred head of hogs yearly. He ships all of his stock to the Chicago market and this branch of his business interests yields large financial returns. He is a stockholder in the Malcom Savings Bank and also in the Malcom Garage Company, and is well known to agricultural circles throughout Poweshiek county as a stockholder in both the Grinnell and Malcom fairs, a director of the Poweshiek County Central Agricultural Association and of the Malcom fair.
Mr. Schultz has been married twice. In the year 1882 he wedded Miss Amelia Baum, who was born in Germany in 1858, and when twenty-four years of age came alone to this country. She passed away on the 24th of May, 1901. Unto this union were born seven children, as follows : Emma, the wife of W. L. Lamb, of Malcom township ; Minnie, Alvena and John, all at home ; George, who passed away when five years old ; and Elmer and May, who are also still under the parental roof. On the I2th of December, 1910, Mr. Schultz was united in marriage to Miss Minnie Deffenbaugh, who was born in Fulton county, Illinois, on the 25th of February, 1869.
Mr. Schultz is a member of the German Lutheran church, the site of which was donated by his father and of which he is a helpful and interested worker and a substantial supporter. He is a republican in politics and has filled various school and road offices, while for the past seven years he has served as township trustee. Probably few men are better known in agricultural circles throughout this district than Mr. Schultz, whose efforts to stimulate the interests of his fellowmen toward progress and advancement along agricultural and stock-raising lines have been far-reaching and beneficial. In his public capacity, too, he has ever sought the good of the community, casting the weight of his influence on the side of advancement along material, political, intellectual and moral lines, and in every relation of life he has been found loyal and public-spirited, his own success never for a moment causing him to forget his duties as a citizen. [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

FRANCIS W. JOHNSTON.
A farm of one hundred and sixty acres situated on section 27, Scott township, claims the time and attention of Francis W. Johnston, who was born in Rock Island county, Illinois, in September, 1858. His parents, Joseph and Eliza Jane (Johnston) Johnston, were both natives of Ireland, where they were reared and married, and soon after that event in their lives they emigrated to the new world. They first located in Rock Island county. Illinois, where four of their six children were born. In 1868 the father removed with his family to Poweshiek county and here engaged in farming throughout his remaining years. He died at a comparatively early age, passing away when only thirty- five years old, at his home in Jackson township. The mother still survives and now makes her home in Montezuma. Their children were : Francis W., of this review ; John, who resides in Jackson township ; Mrs. Eliza Smith, deceased ; Mrs. Mary Moshier, who has also departed this life ; Matilda, the wife of William Rempp, of Montezuma ; and Josephine, the wife of Joseph Johnston, also of Montezuma.
Francis W. Johnston was reared, to the age of ten years in Rock Island county. Illinois, and at that age accompanied his parents on their removal to Poweshiek county. He has made farming his life work and is today the owner of a well improved farm consisting of one hundred and sixty acres on section 27, Scott township. He has made many improvements on the place since it came into his possession and now has a valuable farm property, the fields annually yielding rich and abundant harvests as a reward for the care and labor which he bestows upon them.
Mr. Johnston was married March 9, 1880, to Miss Maggie Hall, who was born in Ireland, October 31, 1858, and was but three years of age when, in 1861, her parents, John and Eliza (McKeever) Hall, emigrated to the United States, while she was a little maiden of nine years at the time the family home was established in Poweshiek county. Her father was born in County Tyrone, Ireland, December 28, 1829, and was married in that country, in 1854, to Miss McKeever. Three daughters were added to the household, Mary Jane, Margaret (now Mrs. Johnston), and Eliza, ere the emigration of the family to the new world. They first located in Rock Island county, Illinois, where three other children were born, these being Susan, Samuel and Rachel. In 1867 Mr. Hall removed with his family to Poweshiek county, Iowa, settling on a farm seven miles northeast of Montezuma, where many years were devoted to general farming. He was reared in the faith of the Episcopal church and died in that faith on the 29th of January, 1910, when more than eighty years of age. His wife died about thirteen years ago.
The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Johnston has been blessed with five daughters, namely: Eliza, the wife of Joshua Johnston, of Scott township; Mary, who became the wife of James Johnston but departed this life January 4, 1911 ; Ethel, the wife of Joseph Hutchinson, a resident of Rock Island county, Illinois; and Ella and Maggie, at home.Mr. Johnston is a stanch supporter of the republican party but is not active
as an office seeker. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the United Presbyterian church of Scott township. He is a man whom to know is to respect and honor, for his life is lived in harmony with his professions and his sterling traits of character have won him a host of warm friends. [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

ESTHER B. MACGUGIN.
The value of the local newspaper in the upbuilding of the best interests of any community is universally conceded. The press has not only recorded the history of advancement, but has also ever been the leader in the work of progress and improvement. In molding public opinion the power of the newspaper cannot be estimated but, at all events, its influence is greater than that of any other single agency. Poweshiek county has every reason to be proud of the character of its press, for it has many enterprising and progressive journals, and prominent among these is the Montezuma Republican, one of the oldest newspapers of the county. Esther B. MacGugin, who was in April, 1910, appointed managing editor of this journal, has rightly been accorded a foremost place among the leading newspaper women of Iowa, her native state.
Her birth occurred in Washington, Washington county, on the 23d of August, 1881, and she is the eldest daughter of Robert Lyle and Minnie (Dickson) MacGugin. Her father came to Iowa from Washington county, Pennsylvania, in the year 1875, and for a time was located at Davenport. Being of a mechanical turn of mind he accepted a position with the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway Company. His connection with this institution has continued for thirty-seven years, and at present he is one of the oldest men in its employ.
Her mother, who attended the public schools of Washington, and later studied in the academy, was engaged in teaching school prior to her marriage. Representatives of the name in Pennsylvania have long been identified with agricultural pursuits, in the conduct of which they have proven uniformly successful. Inheriting a fondness for the free, independent life of the country, they have as a rule become well-to-do farmers, well improved farms, large families and a competency, with contentment, being characteristic of a large portion of them. A goodly number, however, have sought fortune in other channels, entering the commercial field and the various professions, in which they have attained success and prosperity. Among the distant relatives of our subject is numbered Hon. Joseph R. Reed, who for many years served on the supreme court bench of Iowa.
Esther B. MacGugin was reared in the town of her nativity, and at the usual age was sent as a student to the public school. Upon completing the course therein taught she entered Washington high school, from which she was graduated in 1898, and later received the benefit of a year's work in Parsons College. With a strong literary inclination and a ready aptitude for writing, she turned toward the journalistic field as a life work, and for more than twelve years has been identified with newspaper work, her uninterrupted rise therein in the meantime being rapid and well merited.
She began her career as a correspondent from Valley Junction for a Des Moines paper, was later given a position as reporter on the staff of one of the papers of the capital and subsequently became connected with the Washington (Iowa) Journal. She resigned the latter position, however, to enter the University of California, where she pursued a special course in journalism. Being thus well equipped for further advancement in her chosen vocation she accepted a position with the Joplin (Missouri) Daily Globe, a large publication in the south, and succeeded Mrs. Baker, one of the best known newspaper women in the United States, who has written for over a quarter of a century under the nom de plume of "Becky Sharp." Miss MacGugin edited the woman's department of this large daily for two years, and also contributed stories to the magazine section.
She also at that time wrote some very original, logical and impressive articles under the pen name of Esther Belle. About four years ago she became identified with the Needham syndicate of newspapers, and since her connection therewith her career has been unusually successful. Her excellent journalistic ability won well merited recognition when, about a year ago, she was appointed to the office of managing editor of the Montezuma Republican, to succeed J. R. Williams. This paper, which belongs to the syndicate, is one of the oldest and best known journals of the locality, and is the oldest republican newspaper in the county. At its best, or at its worst, a newspaper is the expression of the personality of the single individual at its head, and . thus the present flourishing condition of the Republican is a logical indication of the rare business acumen and excellent executive ability of its managing editor. She is also a writer of considerable ability, and in the columns of her paper appear many evidences of her attractive and pleasing style.
Miss MacGugin is a member of the Northern Press syndicate and of the Burrell Newspaper syndicate of New York, and she has contributed largely to various metropolitan papers of Iowa. One paper, the Davenport Democrat and Leader, states of her: "Her experiences have been sufficiently varied to enable her to be among the premiers of journalism." [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

V. S. WILCOX, M. D.
The medical fraternity finds a worthy representative in Dr. V. S. Wilcox, who has made Malcom the scene of his activity throughout his connection with the medical profession. He was born in Homer, Licking county, Ohio, on the ninth of October, 1848, a son of J. P. and Mary (Stark) Wilcox, natives of Luzerne county, Pennsylvania. In the Keystone state the parents were reared and married and at an early day went to Ohio. The mother passed away in Tiskilwa, Bureau county, Illinois, and later the father came to Iowa with his son, Dr. Wilcox. He engaged in merchandising at one time, although the greater part of his life was devoted to farming. His death occurred at Aurora, Nebraska. His family consisted of three children, of whom our subject is the eldest, the others being: Louisa, the wife of Jasper Weimer, of North English, Iowa county, Iowa ; and Ella, residing in Aurora, Nebraska. Dr. Wilcox was but seven years of age when he came with his father to Iowa, locating first in Washington county, and in that and Iowa county he spent the intervening period until twenty-two years of age. At the usual age he became a pupil in the public schools, continuing therein until his graduation from the high school, and for one year pursued a literary course at the Iowa State University. He then became a student in the medical department of that institution, from which he was graduated three years later, in 1874, when the M. D. degree was conferred upon him. Immediately after his graduation he came to Malcom and here he has since continued in the practice of his profession. From the first he was highly successful, impressing all with whom he came in contact with his trustworthy character, his earnestness, zeal and scrupulous regard for the ethics of his profession. He is skillful in diagnosis, sure in prescription, thoughtful and tactful in attendance, and prompt and efficacious in emergency. Aside from a large practice, which is distinctively representative and lucrative, he is the owner of a fine farm of two hundred and forty acres a mile from town, which returns him a most substantial annual income. In 1871 Dr. Wilcox was united in marriage to Miss Josephine Hamilton, who was born in Tiffin, Johnson county, Iowa, in July, 1851, a daughter of Hezekiah Hamilton. Unto Dr. and Mrs. Wilcox have been born three children, as follows : Delano, a graduate of the literary department of the Iowa State University, also of Rush Medical College of Chicago, and who is now practicing medicine in connection with his father; Mabel F., the wife of Oscar Bowers, of Malcom; and Nellie G., who married Henry Wickman, now operating Dr. Wilcox's farm in Malcom township.
Dr. Wilcox's professional relations are with the Poweshiek County Medical Society and the Iowa State Medical Society. Fraternally he is a Royal Arch Mason and also belongs to Oriental Commandery, No. 22, K. T., of Newton, while he is likewise a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He gives his political allegiance to the republican party, and was a member of the board of education for thirty years, during which time he served on the building committee of the Malcom high school. For a period of thirty-seven years Dr. Wilcox has practiced continuously in Malcom a period characterized by self-sacrifice and kindly ministrations to others  and during that time he has become the loved family physician in many households. He has ever had the interest of the community deeply at heart and few deserve a more prominent position among the town's most representative and valued citizens. [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

C. WILLIAM PEARCE.
A member of a well known family of Poweshiek county, C. William Pearce is now living retired at Grinnell, having reached the age of seventy-two years. He has been a resident of this county for sixty-three years and ranks among the pioneers of a section that is now one of the most productive and prosperous parts of the state. He was born in Bartholomew county, Indiana, November 22, 1839, and is a son of Peter S. and Margaret (Prosser) Pearce, the father being a native of Ohio and the mother of Pennsylvania. Peter S. Pearce, who was a carpenter and builder by trade, removed from Ohio to Indiana in 1836 and seven years later took up his residence in Illinois. In 1848 he came to Poweshiek county and settled on government land in Grinnell township, where he established the family on a farm of two hundred acres, which he developed from its wild state until it became a valuable property. He was a man of influence and responsibility, whose name was accepted as a synonym for industry and integrity. In politics he adhered to the democratic party and was elected justice of the peace an office which he filled with marked ability for a number of years. Fraternally he was connected with Herman Lodge, No. 273, A. F. & A. M., of Grinnell. He was called to his reward while still residing on the old homestead in 1877, his wife having died ten years earlier. On the maternal side the family record has been traced back for over one hundred years, our subject's grandfather Prosser having served in the war of 1812. C. William Pearce has been a resident of Iowa since he was nine years of age. He has devoted his life to agricultural pursuits and remained on the home farm until 1901, since which time he has been an honored resident of Grinnell. He still owns two hundred and fourteen acres of land in Grinnell township and his residence in the city. He was married in January, 1864, to Miss Matilda G. Brown, who was born in Somersetshire, England, October 23, 1828, and was a daughter of John and Maria (Grant) Brown. She came with her parents to America in 1850. the family living for several years in Wisconsin. In 1854 they arrived in Poweshiek county, six months after the first settlement was made at Grinnell. After a happy married life -of more than forty years Mrs. Pearce died at Grinnell in 1907. She was a woman of many admirable traits of mind and heart and a consistent member of the Congregational church. In the family of Mr. and Mrs. Pearce were the following children : George G., who is now married and lives in Washington township ; Frank H., who is also married and lives in Grinnell township; Nellie M., who married James R. Rutherford, a farmer of Idaho; Seth J., who is married and lives in Grinnell township; and Mary C., who married J. R. Nicholl and lives in Jasper county.
Mr. Pearce set a worthy example for his children and today they are useful and honorable members of society, each performing his or her work in the promotion of the general welfare. His political allegiance is given to the democratic party and while he has not sought public office he has ever been a consistent advocate of honest government administered in accordance with practical business principles. The excellent qualities he has manifested as a citizen, as a business man and in private life fully entitle him to the respect in which he is universally held. [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

S. W. GRAY.
In his early boyhood S. W. Gray came with his parents to Poweshiek county and ever since that time he has been a resident of this county. He is now a prosperous farmer of Washington township who, by his upright character, well applied industry and sound business judgment, has gained the respect of the entire community.
He is a native of Davenport, Iowa, and was born October 8, 1870, a son of Herman C. and Almeda (Booth) Gray. The father was born in Holmes county, Ohio, May 30, 1822, and the mother in one of the eastern states. They were married at Valparaiso, Indiana. At the time of the Civil War Mr. Gray served faithfully in behalf of the Union. He was discharged at Davenport, following which he engaged in teaming for a number of years. In the spring of 1877 he came with his family to Poweshiek county and purchased the farm upon which his son, S. W., now lives. He died April 10, 1902, having previously retired from active labors. The mother is now living at Grinnell.
Mr. Gray was a man of exceptional character, who exercised a good influence upon all with whom he came in contact. Politically he was an ardent supporter of the republican party. He took an active part in politics and served as township trustee and also as school director. In religious belief he adhered to the Methodist church and for a number of years filled very acceptably the offices of trustee and steward in the church. There were eight children in the family and Mr. and Mrs. Herman C. Gray, namely ; Josie, who is deceased ; Ella, the wife of Tilman Vestal, of Lynnville, Iowa; Herbert, who lives at Grinnell; Carrie, also deceased; Alfred and Ida, twins, the former now living in Montana and the later with her mother ; S. W., our subject ; and Bert, who lives in Salt Lake City, Utah.
S. W. Gray arrived in Poweshiek county with his parents when he was seven years of age and received his education in the public schools of Washington township. He assisted his father upon the home farm until attaining his majority, when he rented a farm for two years on his own account. He then purchased eighty acres in Washington township, which he cultivated to good advantage for five years and then disposed of, buying the old homestead of two hundred acres upon which he is now well established. He is a general farmer and stock-raiser, paying special attention to the raising of horses and cattle, for which he has a rare aptitude.
On the 25th of June, 1893, Mr. Gray was married at Searsboro, to Miss Clara Spillman, a daughter of J. A. and Sarah (Vestal) Spillman, of Washington township. Mrs. Gray was born in Washington township, September 15. 1870. Her parents are both natives of North Carolina. The father settled in Poweshiek county about fifty years ago and is now living retired. The mother died about 1900. Mr. Spillman has for many years been identified with the Masonic order. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Gray, namely: Grace, who is deceased ; and Farrell Ray, Robert and Addie, all of whom are at home.
Mr. Gray has never been a seeker after political office, but casts his vote for the republican party believing that its principles are highly important in advancing the permanent welfare of the state and nation. Fraternally he is connected with the Odd Fellows, his membership being in the lodge at Searsboro. He has many friends in the order and also among men who are not identified with any fraternal organization. Genial in manner and pleasing in address, he easily makes his way wherever he desires to be known, and he enjoys the good will of all with whom he comes into contact. [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

FREDERICK WILLIAM MORRISON.
Although thirty-five years have passed since Frederick William Morrison was called to his final rest, he is still remembered by many of Grinnell's older residents as one of the most prominent and respected early settlers of the town. As the founder of what is now the Morrison & Ricker Manufacturing Company, one of the principal industrial enterprises of Iowa, the record of his life well merits a place in a volume of this character.
His birth occurred in Bath, New Hampshire, on the 20th of July, 1813, and he was a gentleman of Scotch-Irish lineage. He obtained a good education in the common schools and after putting aside his text-books learned the tanner's trade, working by the side of Mr. Parker, the father of Ira Parker, who later developed the Saranac glove industry in Littleton, New Hampshire, using practically the same process in tanning leather that Mr. Morrison introduced in Iowa. On the 4th of October, 1843, he was united in marriage to Miss Ann Sutherland, a daughter of the Rev. David Sutherland, who was for many years father and so called priest of the Congregational community of Bath, New Hampshire. The wife brought to her new duties all the refinement of a Christian home and the knowledge gained by varied experience. She had attended
Mount Holyoke Seminary as a member of the first class, under Mary Lyon, subsequently followed the profession of teaching in Littleton, New Hampshire, and later went to Plymouth, that state, where she learned to make gloves. Mr. and Mrs. Morrison began their domestic life in Bath, where five children were born unto them three sons and two daughters. Two of the number reached mature age, Mary and David.
With the call from J. B. Grinnell for the building of a model colony in Iowa was an advertisement for a tanner, to which Mr. Morrison responded, bringing his family west in the fall of 1855. After reaching the terminus of the railroad at Rock Island, Illinois, he made his way down the Mississippi river by boat to Muscatine, where he procured a private hack in which to make the journey of one hundred and twenty miles to his new home. A number of the residents of his native town had preceded him and here he found friends and kindred, spending the winter in the home of David Sutherland, a brother of Mrs. Morrison. In the spring of 1856 Mr. Morrison erected a small house at the corner of Sixth avenue and State street, which corner is marked by tall cotton- wood trees on the college campus, the house having been moved to make room for the circular drive on the south. Not having capital sufficient to build a tannery, Mr. Morrison began tanning in the open and put in vats north of the mill pond, the mill being located on the corner of Fifth avenue and State street.
Here was begun the work which led to the development of the Grinnell glove industry. Like all tanners of his day, Mr. Morrison was both a tanner and currier and undertook to tan and finish anything from glove leather to sole leather. His first desire was to establish a horse collar shop and considerable work was done in this line. Gradually, however, he turned his attention toward glove-making. Deer were still numerous in Iowa and Grinnell soon became a market for them. The tanning process was a sore trial in the early days, as the oak bark was found unsuitable and shumac and smartweed proved to be of little value. Finally a small shipment of gambier, an imported article, was received and Mr. Morrison developed a combination process which is still used in the tannery. No salesmen were employed for a number of years but the stage drivers made a good substitute as they learned the value of the Grinnell gloves. Orders began to come in from adjoining towns and annually increased in number. In 1859 a tannery was erected west of Grinnell and prior to the completion of the railroad in 1863 large shipments were sent to Newton, Des Moines and points farther west. Mr. Morrison lived to see but the beginning of the industry, though at the time of his demise it had outgrown the kitchen and the home and occupied half of the Deacon Whitcom harness shop on Fourth avenue. The glove sales of 1876 amounted to nine thousand dollars. Though he passed away when the enterprise was practically still in its infancy, he established a reputation for integrity in all his dealings with his fellowmen that is more to be desired than great riches.
Mr. Morrison was a modest, retiring gentleman, faithful in attendance at church services but not an active participant. He was an interesting conversationalist and his friends found him a congenial companion whose never-failing supply of stories showed a rare appreciation bf the best kind of humor. He was not strong physically but no man in the community was more faithful or persistent in his attention to all the requirements of his business. His word was as good as his bond and his demise, which occurred on the i6th of August, 1876, was the occasion of deep and widespread regret, for his life had been at all times unselfish, upright and honorable. [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

CHARLES H. ONTHANK.
Among the worthy citizens of Poweshiek county who have passed to their reward, leaving behind them memories of useful labors and kindly acts that cannot be forgotten by the present generation, should be named Charles H. Onthank. He was born in New York, June 13, 1860, and departed this life December 21, 1908, being then in his forty-eighth year. His parents were George H. and Isabella (Woods) Onthank, both of whom were natives of New York state.
At the time of the Civil war the father enlisted in an Illinois regiment and served as a musician until the close of the Rebellion. He acquitted himself so creditably that he was placed in charge of a hospital in Tennessee after the war was over and having discharged this duty came to Iowa with his family in 1869 and for several years worked at the blacksmith's trade at Grinnell. Later he became connected with the Iowa Central Railroad at Grinnell as baggage agent and was also employed in the post office at Grinnell. He died June 6, 1908, but his wife is still living at Grinnell. Politically he gave his support to the republican party and fraternally was a valued member of the Masonic order and the Grand Army of the Republic. In religious faith he adhered to the Baptist church in which he took a great interest, serving for a number of years as deacon. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Onthank : Charles H. ; and Martha, the wife of George L. Brown, of Grinnell.
Charles H. Onthank came to Grinnell with his father at the age of ten years and received his early education in the public schools. After reaching manhood he went to South Dakota and took up government land, but after spending three years in that state he returned to Grinnell and worked in the freight house of the Iowa Central Railroad Company. About 1891 he purchased fifty-five acres of land in Grinnell township, later acquiring fifty acres additional. After cultivating his farm for a while he sold it and purchased two hundred acres in Washington township, which he improved, greatly adding to its value. This place he also sold and in December, 1899, bought a farm of two hundred and thirty acres, which is still in possession of the family. He made a specialty of raising hogs and cattle for the market and became known as one of the prosperous and progressive men
of the community.
On the 21st of August, 1889, Mr. Onthank was married to Miss Viola Robinson, who was born July 7. 1870, in McDonough county, Illinois, and is a daughter of Robert and Mary Jane (Holden) Robinson. The father was born near Louisville, Kentucky, October 8, 1841, and the mother near Cincinnati. Ohio, July 10, 1848. He engaged in farming in Kentucky and later in McDonough county, Illinois. In the fall of 1872 he came with his family to Poweshiek county and purchased a farm of eighty acres in Grinnell township. He sold his farm in 1893 and retired with his wife to Grinnell, where he passed away May 30, 1901. His wife died August 2, 1908. They were both consistent members of the Baptist church. In politics he was a supporter of the republican party and being an earnest friend of education served very acceptably as a member of the school board in Grinnell township. Eight children constituted the family of Mr. and Mrs. Onthank : Florence, who was born October 29, 1891, and is now the wife of William Van Wyk, of Lynnville, Iowa; Lillian M., born July 20, 1893, who married Charles P. Kimball and is now living on the old homestead ; Charles H. R., born May 26, 1895; Grace Isabelle, born April 1, 1897; Alma Viola, born February 11, 1899; Edward W., born June 26, 1901 ; Paul L., born June 17, 1903; and George W., born October 26, 1906.
Mr. Onthank was a firm believer in the Christian religion and a sincere member of the Baptist church, as is his widow. In politics he gave his support to the republican party and served for two terms as school director. Fraternally he was identified with the Odd Fellows and he had many friends in the order and also in Poweshiek county. Mrs. Onthank continues to reside on the old homestead and receives from her children and from all who know her the love and respect which is due to unquestioned worth. [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

WILLIAM F. SCHMIDT.
William F. Schmidt, an enterprising and energetic agriculturist of Poweshiek county, owns a well improved tract of land, comprising one hundred and twenty acres in Washington township, and devotes his attention to both farming and stock-raising. His birth occurred in that township on the i8th of May, 1864, his parents being Peter and Eliza (Sanders) Schmidt, who are mentioned at greater length in another part of this work. Unto them were born ten children, as follows : William F., of this review ; Sarah, the wife of Harmon Sullee, of Washington township ; Samuel, who is a resident of Jasper county, Iowa ; Henry J., living in Washington township, and who is represented elsewhere in this volume; Elizabeth, the wife of Guy Ford, who makes her home in Canada ; Peter and Francis, both at home ; Frank, who is deceased ; Mary, the wife of William Whalen, of Mahaska county, Iowa; and Rose, the wife of August Gregor, of Bismarck, North Dakota.
William F. Schmidt obtained his education in the schools of his native township. Upon leaving school he assisted in the operation of the home farm for several years. He also worked at well driving and tile laying for a time. In 1899 he purchased his present farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Washington township, draining the land and otherwise improving the property. In addition to cultivating the crops best adapted to soil and climate he also devotes considerable attention to the raising of stock, having met with a gratifying measure of success in both branches of his business.
On the 28th of December, 1898, Mr. Schmidt was united in marriage to Miss Amelia Mader, a daughter of John and Anna Marie (Bausch) Mader, both of whom were natives of "Baden, Germany, the former born in September, 1832, and the latter on the 28th of September, 1833. Their marriage was celebrated in the fatherland. John Mader, who was a farmer by occupation, emigrated to the United States in 1882, locating in Moline, Illinois, where he labored in the mills and also in the plow works. His demise occurred on the 5th of December, 1892, while his wife was called to her final rest on the 20th of December, 1898, both passing away in the faith of the Catholic church. Their children were seven in number, namely: Anton, who is a resident of Germany; Barbara, who is the wife of Max Hanger and also resides in Germany ; Joseph, living in the state of Washington ; Engelbert, of Colfax, Washington ; Mrs. Christian Kill, deceased, of Moline, Illinois; Mrs. Schmidt, who was born in Baden, Germany, on the 3d of November, 1865, and who accompanied her parents on their emigration to the United States ; and Gustav, who is a resident of San Francisco, California. Unto Mr. and Mrs. William F. Schmidt have been born two children: Anna Marie, whose natal day was November 16, 1899; and Joseph Frederick, whose birth occurred on the eight of March, 1904.
In politics Mr. Schmidt is independent, supporting men and measures rather than party. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Catholic church, of which his wife is also a devoted communicant. He has resided in Poweshiek county from his birth to the present time. That his life has ever been upright and honorable is indicated by the fact that the associates of his boyhood and youth are still numbered among his stanch friends and admirers. [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

ELBERT W. CLARK, JR.
Elbert W. Clark, Jr., conducting a lumber yard in Grinnell, is accounted one of the leading and progressive business men of the city, and his life record indicates what may be accomplished when determination, energy and laudable ambition constitute the foundation for success. He was born here on the 28th of February, 1880, a son of Dr. Elbert W. Clark, of whom extended mention is made elsewhere in this volume. He was one of the best loved citizens of Grinnell, not alone because of his professional skill in the practice of medicine, but also because of his ready sympathy and his kindly assistance whenever aid was needed.
Under the parental roof Elbert W. Clark, Jr.. spent his youthful days, his time being largely given to the acquirement of an education in the public schools, and later in Iowa College of this city, from which he was graduated with the class of 1900, winning the degree of Bachelor of Science. There was no intermediate period between his school days and his entrance into business life, for when he put aside his text-books he at once sought employment and secured a position in the lumber yard of Carney Brothers, with whom he remained a year and a half. Later, in association with E. B. Brande, he purchased a half interest in the business that belonged to W. J. Carney, the senior member of the firm, at which time
the style of the business was changed to Carney, Brande & Clark. This was on the 1st of February, 1902. Under this organization the business was conducted for five years, during which time Mr. Clark, had charge of the yard, and in that capacity learned all of the details of the lumber business. At the end of that time he and J. L. Fellows purchased the interests of Mr. Carney and Mr. Brande and the style of the firm became Clark & Fellows, February i, 1907. This partnership relation was maintained for two years.
Mr. Clark is today one of the best informed men concerning lumber in this section of the state and he has displayed skill and ability as a manager. On the 1st of February, 1909, he purchased his partner's interest in the business, since which time he has conducted his lumber yard independently. For the past three years he has also operated a branch yard at Vancleve, Iowa, and in Grinnell is known as the president of the Grinnell Planing Mill Company and also as a member of the board of directors of the People's Light & Fuel Company. He possesses that keen insight into business affairs which, for want of a better term, has been called commercial sense. His plans are carefully made and then forcefully executed and what he undertakes he carries forward to successful completion. On the 30th of April, 1904, Mr. Clark was united in marriage to Miss Ada Valleau, of Grinnell, a daughter of Mrs. Angie Valleau of this city, and they now have one son, E. W. Clark III. In politics Mr. Clark is an earnest republican, but not an office seeker. Fraternally he is connected with Grinnell Lodge, No. 58, I. O. O. F. and with Marshalltown Lodge, No. 312, B. P. O. E. He is a charter member of Poweshiek Club and both he and his wife hold membership in the Congregational church. Having spent his entire life in Grinnell, he is very widely known and the many sterling qualities of character which he has developed has made him a popular citizen as well as a progressive, enterprising and prosperous business man. [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

SAMUEL J. SNIDER.
Samuel J. Snider, who is engaged in general farming in Union township, was born in the township where he is now residing on the I2th of March, 1855, and is the eldest son of the late John and Rachel (Durbin) Snider. The father was a native of Tuscarawas county. Ohio, and the mother of Muskingum county, that
state. John Snider, who was a lumberman, came to Poweshiek county as a young man and engaged in farming, continuing to be identified with that vocation until about five years prior to his death, at which time he retired. The mother has also passed away. Unto them were born eight children, five of whom are living, namely : Samuel J., our subject ; Morton L., who is residing in Union township ; George B. and Martha, both of whom are deceased ; Alice, who married Stephen Rivers, also of Union township; Elizabeth, the wife of Grant Johnson, of this township ; Cora, who married John W. Rogers, of Bates county, Missouri ; and Frank, deceased. The family attended the Christian church, of which the father was for many years an elder, while his political allegiance was accorded the democratic party and he served his township in the capacity of school director.
The boyhood and youth of Samuel J. Snider did not differ save in detail from those of other farmer lads of that period and like circumstances. His time was divided between the work of the schoolroom and the performance of such tasks as were assigned by parental authority, while for recreation he indulged in the sports in which young people in the more sparsely settled communities usually revel. In the acquirement of his education he attended the district schools in his vicinity, and after laying aside his text-books he assisted his father in the work of the farm. Later he worked by the month as a farm hand, being thus employed until he attained his majority. He subsequently purchased forty-two acres of land and engaged in general farming. Having met with a fair degree of success in his ventures he has since added to his original tract until he now owns one hundred and two acres of land, which is under a good state of cultivation.
Ever since age conferred upon him the right of suffrage Mr. Snider has given his political support to the candidates of the democratic party, while his religious views are manifested through his affiliation with the Christian church, of which he was formerly a deacon. He has always led a quiet, unobtrusive life but is known to be a kind neighbor and loyal friend. [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

WILLIAM J. ELWOOD.
Of honest and resolute Irish parentage, William J. Elwood, of Sheridan township, was endowed at birth with those qualities of grit and perseverance which generally lead to the accomplishment of worthy objects. He is a native son of Iowa and was born in Tama county, March 27, 1873, his parents being James and Anna (Jackson) Elwood. The father was born in Ireland and came to America early in the '505, locating in Tama county, Iowa. The mother was married to Mr. Elwood at Dunlap, Iowa.
William J. Elwood was reared in his father's home and early engaged in railroad construction in Tama county. In 1896 he came to Poweshiek county and engaged in farming, later renting land until the fall of 1910, when he purchased two hundred acres on section 24 of Sheridan township, where he established his home. His place is under excellent cultivation and is well watered and drained, there being no waste land on the farm. He engages in general farming and also fattens stock for the market. His wife is interested in the raising of full-blooded Plymouth Rock chickens.
On the 15th of February, 1898, Mr. Elwood was married to Miss Kate Mulligan, a daughter of Michael and Anna (Martin) Mulligan, who came from County Louth, Ireland, to America after their marriage in the early part of the '505. They located on a farm of two hundred acres in Sheridan township, Poweshiek county, and, in 1895, Mr. Mulligan purchased eighty acres additional in Chester township. In 1904 he moved to Tama. where he still lives. Mrs. Mulligan died about 1886 at the old homestead in Sheridan township. Mr. and Mrs. Elwood are the parents of one child, Anna Arlene. She was born March 31, 1902, and is now attending the Hickory Grove district school.
Mr. Elwood and his family are sincere members of the Roman Catholic church of Tama. He gives his support politically to the democratic party and is a great admirer of William Jennings Bryan, considering him one of the brightest political leaders that America has ever known. As a good friend of education Mr. El- wood has served very acceptably as member of the school board of District No. 8, Sheridan township. He is interested in all movements for the promotion of the permanent welfare of the county and is at the present time a member of the board of directors of the Sheridan Creamery Company. Although in actual ownership of his farm but comparatively a short time, he has demonstrated his ability as an agriculturist, and his place promises to become one of the highly productive properties of this part of the county. His success is well deserved, as it is the result of years of well directed labor. [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

WILLIAM ASBURY TAYLOR.
William Asbury Taylor, who owns the Searsboro Telephone Company, was born in Yadkin county, North Carolina, on the 29th of March, 1852. He is a son of Mathew and Mary (Michaels) Taylor, also natives of North Carolina. The father, who was a farmer, came to Poweshiek county in 1855, locating in Union township, where he purchased a farm. When the call came for men in 1862 he enlisted in Company C, Twenty-eighth Iowa Volunteer Infantry and went to the front, where he remained for three years, receiving his discharge at Atlanta, Georgia, in 1865. His political support Mr. Taylor always gave to the men and measures of the republican party, while he kept in touch with his comrades of the field through the medium of his connection with the G. A. R. In matters religious both he, and Mrs. Taylor manifested their views through their affiliation with the Methodist Episcopal church. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Taylor was born nine children, as follows : William Asbury. our subject ; Nancy, the widow of J. A. Kline, of Washington township ; Sarah, the wife of N. W. Pierce, of Blue Point, Washington township; John, who is deceased; Dorcas; Frank, deceased; Finley, who is a resident of Grinnell; and Ella, the wife of Ira C. Beeler, also a resident of Washington township, and one who died in infancy, being the sixth child in order of birth.
After the completion of his preliminary, education, which was acquired in the common schools, William Asbury Taylor studied for a time at Iowa College, Grinnell, Iowa, following which he taught school for a few years. Deciding at the end of that period that he preferred farming he went to Washington township where he engaged in agricultural pursuits until 1881. For two years thereafter he conducted a general merchandise business in Searsboro, but in 1883 he returned to farming. In 1908 he bought the Searsboro Telephone Company, with which he continues to be successfully identified. They have over two hundred and twenty subscribers on the line and their business is constantly increasing.
Mr. Taylor was united in marriage on the I7th of October, 1872, to Miss Minnie Reed, a daughter of Charles and Malvina (Wood) Reed of Mahaska county, Iowa. The father was a native of England and the mother of New York state, where they were married. Mr. Reed emigrated to the United States in his early manhood, locating in the state of New York where he engaged  in contracting. In 1855 together with his wife and family he came to Poweshiek county, continuing to follow his trade, and he also worked in the mines in the vicinity of New Sharon, Iowa. He served for three or four years in the Tenth Iowa Volunteer Infantry during the Civil War, being honorably discharged. In politics he was a republican and both he and his wife affiliated with the Methodist, Episcopal church.
Mrs. Taylor is a native of the state of New York, her birth having occurred there on the nth of May, 1854. Ten children have been born1 of the union of Mr. and Mrs. Taylor, the order of their birth being as follows : Frankie, who is deceased; May, the wife of J. W. Playle, residing in the vicinity of Montezuma; Nina, the deceased wife of Frank Morrison; Charles, who lives in Pleasant township ; Fred, a resident of Washington township ; Clara, the wife of R. D. Ready, of Hayes county, Nebraska ; John, who is living in the same place ;
and Frank, Henry and Pearl, all of whom are at home.
In religious matters the views of the family coincide with those of the Methodist Episcopal denomination, the parents being affiliated with the church at Blue Point, and fraternally Mr. Taylor is a member of the Masonic order. He casts his ballot for the candidates of the republican party and served for several terms as school trustee, township clerk and assessor, while for eighteen years he was secretary of the township school board. He is one of the public- spirited and progressive citizens, as well as capable business men of Searsboro, where he is widely known, and highly regarded. [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

WILLIAM STEELE SANDERS.
Among the esteemed citizens of Grinnell township is William Steele Sanders, the owner of three hundred and twenty acres of land and a man whose sterling traits of character have gained for him the highest respect and confidence. He is a native son of Iowa, born at Grinnell, January 30, 1873, his parents being George Lucius and Mary (Steele) Sanders. The father was a native of New Ipswich, New Hampshire, and the .mother of Arcade, New York. They were married at Arcade in 1870 but had both lived at Grinnell, having come to Iowa in 1863. Mr. Sanders was for a number of years proprietor of the Sanders House and later engaged in farming. He subsequently moved to Modesto, California. Politically he gave his allegiance to the republican party and in religious belief was affiliated with the Congregational church.
The mother of our subject was a daughter of Alonzo and Ann D. (Tracy) Steele. Her father was born near Arcade, New York, August 15, 1816, and became a student at Oberlin College, where he met Miss Ann D. Tracy, who was also a student there, and their acquaintance led to their marriage. He engaged in the woolen business at Arcade, New York, and in 1863 came to Poweshiek county, Iowa, where Professor Parker had invested in land for him, buying it at ten dollars per acre. This land became the family homestead. Mr. Steele engaged in the lumber business at Grinnell and later in the sale of agricultural implements, this business developing into a large hardware store, which was conducted under the name of Graver, Steele & Austin. The company continued for twenty-five years at Grinnell and then moved to Harvey, Illinois, where they met with reverses and the business was abandoned. Mr. Steele was an earnest member of the Congregational church and a liberal contributor toward all Christian enterprises. Originally he was identified with the whig party but he became a republican and continued as a supporter of the republican party during the remainder of his days. He was an active worker in politics but never sought the honors or emoluments of office. His wife was a woman of a remarkably bright mind, a sincere Christian and a true philanthropist. Her home was noted as a center of hospitality and kindliness. She passed away in 1853. In the family of Mr. and Mrs. Steele were three children: Mary, who married George Lucius Sanders ; Louise, who is deceased ; and Myra, also deceased. A professorship in mathematics at Grinnell College was established by Mr. Steele as a memorial to his daughter Myra.
William Steele Sanders received his early education in the public schools of Grinnell and later entered Grinnell College, from which he was graduated in 1895 with the degree of B. S. He was attracted to agricultural pursuits and has devoted his attention to farming, being now the owner of one of the most desirable farms of Grinnell township. It comprises one hundred and sixty acres of the land which was acquired by his grandfather nearly fifty years ago and one hundred and sixty acres which he purchased as a result of his own well directed labors. In connection with the cultivation of the soil he raises and feeds stock and, as he is both scientific and practical in his methods, the results are very satisfactory. In January, 1899, Mr. Sanders was united in marriage to Miss Delia Andrews, a native of Ladora, Iowa, and a daughter of Daniel Andrews, who was a resident of Grinnell for several years and is now living in California. Three children have come to bless the union of Mr. and Mrs. Sanders : Lyman A., Robert R. and Mary Elizabeth.
Mr. Sanders politically is allied with the republican party and in religious belief he adheres to the Congregational church. He has spent his entire life in Poweshiek county and through his business ability and spirit of progressiveness he has gained a host of friends. He is a representative of the younger generation of farmers, who possess advantages of training unknown to their fathers and occupy advanced lines in all departments of the industry. By a useful and honorable life he has acquired a standing which is of vastly greater value than immense wealth gained through questionable methods. [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

ORLANDO D. HALL.
Orlando D. Hall is well known as the owner of the Maple Lawn Farm, located on section 3, Scott township, Poweshiek county, and his popularity among his fellow townsmen has been proven by the fact that in 1906, although living in a republican stronghold, he was elected on the democratic ticket to the office of county supervisor. He is a native of Berrien county, Michigan, his birth having occurred May 4, 1852. His parents were George and Katharine (Deardorff) Hall, the former born in Butler county, Ohio, in February, 1826, while the latter claims Indiana as the state of her nativity. The father removed to Michigan from Ohio with his parents when he was a lad of ten years but after one year the family returned to Ohio and there the grandfather passed away. The father of our subject, however, remained in Berrien county, Michigan, until 1865, when he removed with his family to Poweshiek county, Iowa, and engaged in farming. He was a prosperous man and became the owner of two hundred and forty acres of rich farming land. He died here on the I2th of January, 1898, at the age of seventy-two years. The mother, however, still survives and makes her home in Brooklyn. Their family numbered seven children, namely : Orlando D., of this review ; Curtis, a resident of Madison county, Iowa ; Eldon L., of Scott township, who is mentioned elsewhere in this volume ; Cass L., of Brooklyn ; Charles H., who is also mentioned in this work; Myrtle, of Brooklyn; and Guy O., who makes his. home in Malcom.
O. D. Hall was reared in the state of his nativity to the age of thirteen years, at which time he accompanied his parents on their removal to Poweshiek county, the family home being established on a farm in Bear Creek township, just across the road from the present home of our subject. At that time much of the land was unbroken prairie and the homes of the settlers were widely scattered. He assisted his father in breaking new land and making a home and his experience then proved of value to him when making a home for himself. He remained with his father until 1875, when he was married to Miss Savilla Shuler, who was born in Lycoming county, Pennsylvania, February 2, 1856, a daughter of George and Sarah (Woodley) Shuler. The father died in the Keystone state in 1868, after which the daughter accompanied her mother to Poweshiek county in 1874. The mother passed away here on the 27th of February, 1895.
Following his marriage Mr. Hall located on his farm of two hundred acres on section 3, Scott township, which at that time was unbroken prairie. He at once set to work to break the land and cultivate his fields and as time passed he gathered rich harvests as a reward for the labor which he bestowed upon it. He also made all the improvements on the place, building a good substantial residence and outbuildings, all of which work was done with his own hands with the exception of some help he received in the construction of the house. His place is now known as the Maple Lawn Farm and is one of the most beautiful, as well as productive tracts, in this section of the county. He gives his time to general farming and stock-raising and also does some feeding. He follows modern methods in carrying on his work and his success is well merited for it has come to him through his own well directed labors and sound business judgment.
The home of Mr. and Mrs. Hall has been blessed with eight children : Sherman, of Scott township ; Carrie, the wife of B. F. Kensinger, of Bear Creek township ; Homer, who makes his home in Huron, South Dakota : Glenn, who is attending school in Davenport, Iowa ; Kathryn, the wife of Glenn Crider, of Bear Creek township ; and Fred, Clyde and Helen, all at home.Mr. Hall has been a lifelong democrat and on that ticket in 1906 was elected as county supervisor, his term of service beginning on the 1st of January, 1907, and he was the first democrat to hold that position in the county, this being a republican stronghold. He was elected for a second term, polling all but thirteen out of the one hundred and fifty-six votes cast in Scott township.
He has also filled the office of justice of the peace and has served in other minor offices of the township. He is a popular official and ever discharges his duties with the same fidelity that he conducts his private business affairs.
He is a member of the Knights of Pythias lodge, and he and his family attend and support the . Methodist Episcopal church. Having resided in Poweshiek county for forty-six years, Mr. Hall feels a deep interest in its welfare and is ever found ready to do what he can to advance its interests, while at the same time he is meeting with success in the conduct of his own business affairs. [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

FRED BAUSTIAN.
As the name indicates, Fred Baustian comes of German ancestry and the traits of character which ever mark the people of that nationality are strongly manifest in his life. He is the owner of one hundred and fifty acres of land on section 4, Pleasant township, and here he is devoting his energies to its further improvement and cultivation.
Mr. Baustian is a native of Poweshiek county, born in Chester township, July 12, 1872, a son of George and Elizabeth (Schmidt) Baustian, both of whom were born in Germany, the former in Pashinn, January 26, 1837. He was a young man of twenty-one years when he emigrated to the new world with his parents, the date of their arrival being June 21, 1861. They located in Illinois and it was in Lockport, that state, that George Baustian was married, on the 13th of October, 1861, to Miss Elizabeth Schmidt. He remained in Illinois until the spring of 1866, when he removed with the family to Jasper county, Iowa, where he made his home for five years. He then came to Poweshiek county and engaged in farming, in which he continued until in May, 1901, when he suffered a stroke of paralysis. He remained in an invalid condition until his sufferings were terminated by death on the i6th of November,
1906, when he was in his seventieth year. He was reared in the faith of the Lutheran church and was a member of that denomination in Malcom. He was an industrious man and led an upright life, his genial spirit and kindly deeds endearing him to all those with whom he came in contact. His widow, who was born in Germany, May 9, 1835, still survives, and now makes her home with her daughter, Mrs. Appleby, in Chester township. By her marriage she became the mother of eight children ; John, a resident of Rock Rapids, Iowa ; George ; Henry: Peter; Joseph: Fred; Emma, the wife of Andrew Appleby, of Chester township ; and Sophie, deceased wife of John Baltisberger, of Poweshiek county. Fred Baustian spent the period of his boyhood and youth under the parental roof and was early trained to habits of industry and economy, which have proved valuable assets in his later life. At the time of his marriage he started out upon an independent business venture, operating rented land for five years. He then purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land in Chester township but sold this and bought his present farm of one hundred and fifty acres in March, 1906, this farm being located on section 4, Pleasant township. He here gives his time and attention to general farming, and his labors have brought him a gratifying measure of prosperity.
Mr. Baustian was married February 14, 1895, to Miss Henrietta Schultz, who was born in Sheridan township, November 8, 1873, a daughter of Carl Heinrich Martin and Augusta (Blat) Schultz. Her father was born September 1, 1843, in Richtenberg, Pomerania, Prussia, and came with his parents to
America in 1855, the family home being established at Princeton, Illinois. After residing for ten years in that state, the family removed to Poweshiek county, and here Mr. Schultz followed farming in Sheridan township for many years but the last five years of his life were spent in Malcom, where he was called to his final rest, when more than sixty-two years of age. His widow still survives and makes her home in Brooklyn. Their marriage was blessed with seven children but two of the number are deceased: Minnie and August, who died at the age of fifteen years. Those living are : Lena, the wife of Peter Baustian; Henrietta, the wife of our subject; Jacob; Theodore F. ; and Gertrude. All are residents of Poweshiek county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Baustian have been born three children ; Alfred, Carrie and Grace.
Mr. Baustian gives his political allegiance to the republican party and his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Lutheran church of Malcom. He is a representative young farmer, who rapidly discerns opportunities- of advancement and is working his way to the front among the substantial citizens of Poweshiek county. [History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

SAMUEL S. ORMISTON.
An excellent farm of one hundred and twenty acres, located on section 15, Madison township, pays sterling tribute to the care and attention bestowed upon it by Samuel S. Ormiston, one of the progressive and prosperous agriculturists of this locality.
He was born in Washington county, Ohio, on the i8th of June, 1857, a son of John and Harriett (Disbro) Ormiston. The former was born in Scotland about 1822 and when a little lad of but two years of age came with his parents to America, the family home being established in Washington county, Ohio. There he spent practically his entire lifetime, giving his attention during1 the period of his business career to the occupation of farming. His death occurred there in February, 1894. His wife, who was a native of New York, accompanied her parents to Ohio when but a child. Her father was drowned in the Muskingum river, near Zanesville, Ohio. She met and married John Ormiston in Washington county, Ohio, and still survives him, making her home on' the old homestead with her youngest daughter, Mrs. James Schweikert.
Samuel S. Ormiston was reared on the home farm in Ohio, spending the period of his boyhood and youth amid the wholesome influences of rural life, and remained with his father until he was nineteen years of age, when he came west to Iowa, locating in Brooklyn, Poweshiek county. Here he worked at farm labor by the month for three years, after which he made his way to Jefferson township where two years were devoted to the operation of a rented farm of one hundred and sixty acres. The three following years were given to the cultivation of a rented farm in Scott township, after which he took a year's trip, driving through Kansas and Nebraska in search of a favorable location. After a thorough investigation he purchased two hundred acres in Nebraska, which remained in his possession until nineteen years ago. After his return to Iowa he rented a farm in Warren township for two years, and then operated the Garvin Lang place in Madison township in the capacity of renter for five years. In 1892 he purchased his present homestead of one hundred and twenty acres located on section 15, Madison township, whereon he has since continued to reside. Here he engages in general farming and also devotes much of his time to stock-raising, being the owner of a fine recorded herd of Hereford cattle. He also raises a good grade of hogs and for the past twenty-five years has made a specialty of breeding Plymouth Rock chickens, every year hatching from five to six hundred chickens. He is well known throughout the township for the excellent grade of his stock and he has so carefully managed his interests that today he is ranked among the most substantial farmers and stock-raisers in this locality.
On the 18th of February, 1881, Mr. Ormiston was united in marriage to Miss Mary Katharine Torrance, a daughter of Thomas and Mary (Barr) Torrance, both natives of Ireland. The father, whose birth occurred in Garvah, Londonderry county, was there reared, and when a youth of seventeen years he came alone to the United States, determining to seek a home and fortune on this side of the Atlantic. He resided in Philadelphia for a time where he was engaged as cabinet-maker, and later assisted in the construction of the Lehigh canal. He then purchased a boat, which he operated as captain on the canal for a time, and subsequently took up railroad contracting, being employed on the construction of the Union Pacific road. In 1878 Mr. Torrance came to Iowa, locating on a farm in Jefferson township, Poweshiek county, and there on one farm resided for twenty-three years. At the expiration of that period he removed to Hartwick, Jefferson township, where he now makes his home. His wife, who was born near Coleraine, Londonderry county, Ireland, is now deceased, her death occurring on the i6th of February, sixteen years ago, on the farm near Hartwick.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Ormiston have been born four children : William Frederick, the eldest, resides with his parents on the home farm. He formerly engaged in school teaching and is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mabel Torrance married Homer A. Carpenter, who is well known among the younger farmers of Madison township, and they now have one daughter, Vera Helen, three years of age; Mary Harriett resides at home and teaches school in district No. 5, Madison township; and Susan Florence, the youngest of the family, lives at home and attends the school taught by her sister. At one time all three daughters attended the school in the home district of which their brother
William was teacher. Mr. Ormiston has given his support to the men and measures of the republican
party since age conferred upon him the right of franchise. His fellow citizens have honored him by election to the various positions of public trust and he has acted as justice of the peace for four years. He also served on the school board for one term and has filled the office of township trustee for four years, while in 1911 he was reelected for another term of two years. The owner of a well improved farming property, and progressive and practical in the conduct of his business affairs, he is now numbered among the substantial and well-to-do residents of Malcom township, while his life, ever upright and honorable, has gained for him the warm esteem and unqualified confidence of those with whom he has been brought into contact.
[History of Poweshiek County, Iowa By Leonard Fletcher Parker, S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1911 - Submitted by Barb Ziegenmeyer]

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