Portrait and Biogrpahical Record of Dubuque, Jones and Clayton Counties - 1894

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Jones County
Clayton County

Portrait and Biographical Record of Dubuque, Jones and Clayton Counties
Chicago: Chapman Pub. Co., 1894.

Unless otherwise noted, biographies submitted by Becky Teubner.

J. E. MAGUIRE, M, D., who now devotes his time and energies to the practice of medicine in Dubuque, is one of the younger members of the medical fraternity, but possess skill and ambition, which will no doubt win him a place among the leading physicians of this locality. He was born in East Dubuque, Ill., on the 1st of June, 1870, and is a son of Thomas Maguire, native of Ireland, who bade adieu to the Emerald Isle, and crossed the Atlantic to America, He took up his residence in East Dubuque in an early day, and is still engaged in merchandising in that place, one of its representative and well known citizens. The mother of the Doctor bore the maiden name of Ellen Grath. She is a native of Racine, Wis., and a daughter of Peter Grath, one of the honored pioneers of Jo Daviess County, Ill.

The Doctor spent the days of his boyhood and youth in his native city, being reared in his parents' home, and completed his literary education by his graduation from the high school of Dubuque in 1886. Previous to this time he had taken a business course of study in the Bayless Commercial College of Dubuque, from which he was graduated in 1882. He was an apt scholar and his studious disposition and earnest application have made him a well informed man.

In 1890, Doctor Maguire, with the view of fitting himself for his life work, entered the Medical department of Iowa State University of Iowa City, and was graduated from that institution in the spring of 1893. In the summer of the same year he opened an office in Dubuque, where he has since conducted a general practice in medicine and surgery. He is now doing a successful business, and has the regard of not only his patrons, but also the members of the profession. He has also spent some time in the Chicago Polyclinic School, and is a member of the Dubuque Medical Society. He exercises his right of franchise in support of the Democratic party.

1894 Dubuque, Jones and Clayton Co., IA History pg. 544 McB. McGONIGLE makes his home in Elkader, and is prominent in the ranks of the Democratic party. By the votes of the people he was elected in 1890 to his present position of trust and honor as Deputy County Clerk of Clayton County, He numbers a host of warm personal friends, and by his energetic and business-like manner convinces all who have the pleasure of meeting him that he is amply qualified to discharge the duties pertaining to his post. A native of Clayton County, he was born in Monona, September 28, 1870, and though a young man, has already acquired a good reputation as a sagacious and far-sighted man of business and a financier.

The father of our subject, whose Christian name is Charles L., was born in the Keystone State, and in early manhood came to the west, becoming one of the pioneers and prominent in the growth of Clayton County, He is a stanch Democrat, an active worker in the ranks of the party, and at the present time is serving as a representative to the Legislature from this county. His wife, formerly Helen Barnes, was born in Indiana, being a daughter of Isaac Barnes, a native of the Empire State, and one of the early settlers of Clayton County, The boyhood of him whose name heads this record was passed at his birthplace, where he received the advantages of the good public schools. He has always made the most of his opportunities in an educational way, and by his private reading acquired a good fund of general information. His father, who has long been a public man, was pointed to the position of Postmaster of Monona in 1884 by President Cleveland, and with him our subject commenced his business life, serving as Deputy Postmaster, a place he occupied for two years. In 1890 he was appointed Deputy County Clerk, to serve under M. P. Dunn, and has proved himself worthy of the honor and trust thus reposed in him. It is needless to say that he, like his father, is an ardent Democrat, for he is widely known as one of the leading young men of locality in the community where he resides, Being genial and affable in manner, he numbers a large circle of friends and acquaintances, and though still so young, his keen eye to business and energetic disposition commend him highly the shrewd and enterprising citizens of Elkader and surrounding towns. His pleasant face and beaming smile are familiar to all who frequent the courthouse, and he is a universal favorite.

Jane Seery, Edward's wife, was of Irish descent also.

W. A. MANHART

Among the large number of thorough and practical business men of which Dubuque boasts our subject is known as being one of the foremost and influential. He was born in Mosalem Township, Dubuque County, March 14, 1861, and is a son of Joseph and Angeline (Haberstacker) Manhart. His father was a native of Switzerland, born May 12, 1820, and came to the United States in 1852. When he first arrived in this country he landed in New York City but stayed there only a short time when he left for what was then "the west," St. Louis, Within a few miles of that city he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of choice improved land, which he worked for two years and then sold. He then removed to Dubuque and bought a home and engaged at his trade, that of a carpenter. This he continued for three years when he traded his home for one hundred and sixty acres of farm land, on which he has made his home ever since. He has meantime prospered and has increased the size of the farm to two hundred acres. To him and his estimable wife were born six children, as follows: Gertrude, Joseph, our subject, Bertha, Angeline, and Lena deceased. He gave his children the best education that he was able and always did right well that which he believed to be his duty. He is a Roman Catholic.

Our subject lived with his parents until 1878, when he started out to encounter the trials, hardships and joys of this world for himself. He engaged himself to a farmer and worked with him for eight months, when he left that position and went to work for another farmer, doing grubbing and carpentering, remaining in this position for five years, but finally left to go to Minnesota, where, as in his native state, he engaged in farming and carpentering. He remained there for two years when he came back to Dubuque, Iowa; by close economy and good business methods he has saved enough money to make himself independent and to educate himself at the Bayless Business College, He bought a saloon, which he ran successfully, and later sold it at a large profit; he bought a grocery and hotel which he ran for eleven years, when he sold them, also at a large profit and erected the handsome Hotel Paris, of which he is one of the proprietors. He is also in the wholesale cigar and liquor business, and being a good business manager, honest and reliable, he conducts the business he is connected with so as to be of profit financially and also place him high in the esteem of all who know him.

W. A. Manhart was united in marriage with Miss Lena Noel, and they have been blessed with the birth of one child, a bright little girl, Maudie, who is four years old. He is a member of the Roman Catholic Church and is an independent voter, casting his ballot where he believes it will do the most good for the community.

M. H. MARTIN is a member of the firm of Martin & Strelau, of Dubuque, general freight and transfer agents and wholesale and retail dealers in wood and coal. They are now doing a good business and the members of the firm are numbered among the wide-awake and substantial business men of this community. Mr. Martin was born in New York City in 1854, and is of Irish descent. His parents, George and Mary (Murdock) Martin, were both natives of the Emerald Isle, The father was born in County Down, Ireland, and in 1853 crossed the Atlantic to America, locating in New York, The following year he came to Dubuque, where his death occurred July 16, 1894, at the age of seventy-seven. His wife is still living. Midst play and work the childhood days of our subject were passed. During his infancy he was brought by his parents to Dubuque, where he was reared to manhood. He acquired his education in the public schools and his first independent effort in life was as a mail carrier, a position which he filled for some time in this city. He then purchased his father's freight and transfer line which he has since successfully conducted, his business steadily increasing and yielding to him a comfortable competence. In 1889 he admitted to partnership Paul E. Strelau, under the firm name of Martin & Strelau, which connection has since continued. In the freight and transfer business they employ some twenty-five men. They also deal in wood and coal, handling anthracite and bituminous coal, and oak, maple and pine woods. In this branch of their business they also enjoy a good trade, the enterprise proving a profitable one.

December 25, 1881, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Martin and Miss Gussie E. Strelau, daughter of John and Emily (Tanken) Strelau, who were early settlers of Dubuque, Four children grace this union, two sons and two daughters, Florence A., Frederick D., Mabel Harriet and Harrold P. The parents are both faithful members of the Presbyterian Church, and with their family reside at No, 208 West Fourteenth Street,

In his political views Mr. Martin is a Republican, and though he warmly advocates the principles of the party, he has had neither time nor inclination for public office. Socially, he is connected with Apollo Lodge, K. of P.; and Julien Lodge, I. O. O. F. His residence in this city covers a period of forty years, and he has therefore witnessed the greater part of its growth and development, and has seen the progress and advancement which has been achieved through the progressive and practical efforts of such citizens as himself. Mr. Martin started out to make his own way in the world at the early age of thirteen, and has since been entirely dependent upon his own resources. Steadily he has worked his way upward, overcoming the difficulties and obstacles in his path by industry and perseverance. He may truly be called a self-made man, and as such we present him to our readers.

HON. JAMES McCANN, one of the best known citizens of Dubuque, represents his district in the State Legislature and takes a prominent part in public and political affairs, his name being inseparably connected with the history of this community. He was born in Ireland on the 27th of August, 1840, and is a son of Patrick McCann, who in 1845 came to America, landing at New York City, whence he made his way to Dubuque, His death occurred here in 1891, at the advanced age of eighty-two years. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Ellen Morgan, is still living in Dubuque, and is now (1894) seventy-five years of age.

Our subject was a child of only five summers when with his parents he crossed the ocean and became a resident of Dubuque, where the greater part of his life has since been passed. He was educated in the common schools and at the age of fifteen years began working on his father's farm, where was employed until twenty years of age, but in 1860 he abandoned agricultural pursuits and made an overland trip to Colorado, in the hope of more rapidly acquiring wealth in that state. He there engaged in gold mining for five years, and for three years and a-half had charge of the Smith & Parmalee gold mine. In 1865 he returned to his old home and resumed farming, which he successfully carried on until 1874. He then opened an agricultural implement store and was engaged in business along that line for seven years.

The official career of Mr. McCann began in 1881, when he was elected Sheriff of Dubuque County, and so ably did he discharge the duties of the office that he was four times re-elected, serving in all for eight years. In 1889 he embarked in the real-estate business, which he conducted for two years. In 1891 he was elected on the Democratic ticket to represent Dubuque County in the Twenty-fourth General Assembly of Iowa. Two years later he was re-elected, and is now serving as State Representative with credit to himself and satisfaction to his constituents, He received the caucus nomination of his party for the office of Speaker of the House, but the Republicans being in the majority he was defeated. He has taken quite a prominent part in politics, and is recognized as one of the leaders of the Democracy in Iowa, and is now Chairman of the Congressional Committee of the Third Congressional District. In the fall of 1892 he aided in the organization of the Excelsior Brass Works, and was made President and General Manager of the same, which position he held until July 10, 1893, when he sold his interest in the enterprise.

On the 22d of February, 1865, occurred the marriage of Mr. McCann and Miss Catherine A. Dawson, of Dubuque, daughter of Nicholas Dawson, who is numbered among the honored pioneers of this city in 1837. Mrs. McCann died April 22, 1893, leaving six children, three sons and three daughters, James A.; Lucy M., who is now engaged in teaching; Frank N., a contractor of Dubuque; Charles V., Ruth and Stella. Mr. McCann is a member of the Catholic Church, and with his family resides at No. 1573 Main Street,

JOHN McCONNON, a highly respected resident of Monticello, is engaged in the flour and feed business, having a well stocked establishment, and follows a line of trade in which he is making a success. He was born in Boston, Mass., April 26, 1826, and is the son of Hugh and Ann (O'Donnell) McConnon, both of whom were natives of Ireland, and came to the United States in 1819, locating in Boston, The father worked as a slater while living in the Hub City, but after moving to New Hampshire carried on farm pursuits and there passed his last days.

Mrs. Ann McConnon came to Iowa in company with our subject in 1854, with whom she made her home until her decease in Monticello, in 1885, at the advanced age of eighty-seven years. Hugh McConnon was only forty-five at the time of his death. The parents reared a family of four children, May; John, of this sketch; Sarah, the wife of John Matthews of this city, and Ellen, the wife of W. H. Proctor, a merchant in Monticello, The subject of this sketch was given a good education in Claremont, N. H., after which he passed his years on his father's farm, until coming to Iowa in 1854. He at once made his home in this city, and for eighteen years was teamster for his brother-in-law, W. H. Proctor. He then opened a flour and feed store, and since 1879 has been engaged in this line of business and thus commands a good trade.

John McConnon was married in 1855 to Miss Sally A., daughter of Alex and Betsey Graham. Their union has resulted in the birth of three sons and two daughters, namely: William, an electrician, who makes his home in Albany, N. Y.; John, who is also an electrician, and is engaged in business in New Orleans; Frank, who is a student in Ames, Iowa; Anna G., the wife of T. F. Bevington of Sioux City, this state, who died in 1888 when twenty-four years of age, and Nellie, who afterward married her brother-in-law, T. F. Bevington. In politics Mr. McConnon is strongly in sympathy with the Prohibition party and always votes that ticket, believing that the day will soon come when they will elect a President. In religious affairs he is a devout member of the Catholic Church.

REV. JOHN McCORMICK, Rector of the Church of the Sacred Heart at Monticello, is a man of superior education and attainments, highly respected and esteemed, not only by his own congregation, but by all who enjoy the pleasure of his acquaintance. Though not of American birth, he is loyal to the institutions of our country, and is a progressive, liberal-spirited citizen, favoring all measures tending toward the advancement of the people. Since coming to Monticello he has labored with devotion and unwearied fidelity in the interests of the cause at this place, and his efforts have been rewarded, for the congregation has increased numerically, and its spiritual growth has also been quite gratifying. The subject of this sketch is a young man, having been born in 1860. In Ireland, the land of his birth, he grew to manhood, meantime carrying on his studies in the parochial schools, and afterward entered Mt. Milleran Seminary, where he remained a short time. His education was completed at Carlow College, Thus well equipped for a successful career in whatever profession he might enter, he decided to give his life to the holy order of the priesthood. There was need of Workers in the growing towns in the western and middle states of our country, so, in 1883, he crossed the ocean, and on arriving in America, made his way directly to Dubuque, Iowa, where he was placed in charge of St. Raphael's Church. For two years he labored in that capacity, and afterward for a few years he held the pastorate of the church at Britt, Hancock County, Iowa, at the same time having charge of adjoining missions. His next location was in Harper's Ferry, Allamakee County, where he preached to large congregations. In December of 1886 Father McCormick was appointed pastor of the Church of the Sacred Heart at Monticello, where he now has a congregation consisting of forty families. The church is in a flourishing condition, and its harmonious working proves the skillful oversight of the pastor. He also has charge of the church at Sand Springs, Delaware County, in which are to be found representatives of several different nationalities, but, notwithstanding this fact, they all work harmoniously together. Ever uppermost in his heart is the welfare and progress of the work in which he is engaged. Since accepting this position he has made many improvements in the church, which indicates a praiseworthy spirit among the people and earnest effort on the part of the Rector.

A. S. McDERMOTT, dealer in agricultural implements, is the senior member of the firm of McDermott & Biggins of Dubuque, In this city he was born on the 18th of September, 1834, and is therefore one of its oldest residents, his parents being among the honored pioneer settlers of the county. His father, James McDermott, was a native of Ireland, and on emigrating to the United States, took up his residence in Pottsville, Pa. He was united in marriage with Priscilla Lendeman, whose father was a Frenchman and his mother a German lady. The year 1833 witnessed the arrival of James McDermott in Dubuque, Here he engaged in lead mining until 1837, when he removed to Prairie Creek Township and began farming, which occupation he followed until his death in 1877. He was born July 4, 1804, He took an active part in public affairs, did all in his power to promote the growth and upbuilding of the community, and in politics was a supporter of the Democratic party. His wife, who was born in 1812, was called to her final rest in 1883, at the age of seventy-one years.

A. S. McDermott has the honor of being the first male child born in the city of Dubuque, He spent his boyhood days upon the farm and was early inured to the arduous task of developing wild land. His educational privileges were limited, but his training in the fields was by no means meagre. When he entered upon a business career for himself it was as a farmer, and to the improvement and cultivation of his land he devoted his energies until 1854, when he came to Dubuque and learned the carpenter's trade. On the 5th of June, 1855, he left this city and went to Rice County, Minn., with a squad of men under Gen. James Shields, who went thither in order to establish a settlement and became the pioneers of that locality. They founded a trading post and engaged in trading with the Indians all through the country as far up as Lake Superior, Mr. McDermott learned the language of the red men, with whom he could converse fluently in their own tongue. He remained in Minnesota until the fall of 1857, when we again find him in Dubuque, In the spring of 1864 he went to Montana, On the 1st of March he left home and crossed the plains to Virginia City, where he arrived on the 10th of July, 1864, He was there engaged in gold mining until the 15th of October of the same year, when he crossed the mountains into Idaho and made his way to Idaho City; there he opened a carpenter shop, carrying on business along that line for a time. Later he traveled through Oregon, Washington, California and British America, and on the 31st of October, 1866, returned to Dubuque, He then resumed farming, which he carried on until 1881. He was regarded as one of the leading agriculturists of the community, a reputation which was sustained by the neat and thrifty appearance of his place. Mr. McDermott was married December 21, 1858, to Miss Margaret McDermott, a native of Ireland, To them have been born eight children, five sons and three daughters: H. J., who is now living in St. Paul, Minn.; C. J., also of St. Paul; Ambrose, of Butte City, Mont.; Gus P. and John A., of Dubuque; Mary and Maria, at home, and a daughter deceased.

In the spring of 1881, Mr. McDermott formed a partnership with Hon. James McCann and together they engaged in the sale of agricultural implements until Mr. McCann was elected Sheriff of Dubuque County. The connection was then discontinued and Mr. McDermott was alone in business until 1893, when he was joined by Thomas F. Biggins. Under the firm style of McDermott & Biggins they now conduct business and are enjoying an extensive trade which they well merit. In 1871 our subject patented the McDermott Cultivator and has since manufactured the same. He was one of the organizers of the McDermott Cultivator Company, and as early as 1868 he had attached a spring to the cultivator which he patented. He has also issued several other patents and his inventions are useful and are now much used. He possesses much genius as a mechanic and is a man of more than ordinary ability, who well deserves mention among the best citizens of Dubuque, He has traveled extensively over this country, especially in the northwest, and is a well informed man. In politics he is a Democrat. He and his family are members of the Roman Catholic Church.

HENRY G. McGAHAREN

Among the enterprising and active young business men of Elkader is the gentleman whose name heads this sketch and who now occupies the responsible position of Cashier in the Elkader State Bank. He is well educated and well informed on general topics, and having a mathematical turn of mind is just the man to fill the place which was unanimously tendered him by the Directors and officials of this institution. His trustworthy and honorable principles, in addition to his other qualifications, have won for him this place of honor and responsibility. One of the native sons of Iowa, our subject was born in Fayette County in 1864. He comes from a long lived family, his father, M. M., having lived to attain the age of ninety-one years, and his mother, who was in her girlhood Rosa Sheridan, is still living at the age of four-score years. M. M. McGaharen was a native of the Emerald Isle, and on coming to the United States settled in Iowa, being one of the pioneers of Fayette County, where he followed agricultural pursuits with good success until well along in years, his death occurring in February, 1898. In politics he was a pronounced Democrat, and was always active and interested in all public improvement and in school affairs. His wife was likewise born in Ireland,

The early years of Henry G. were passed in Fayette County, and he acquired a good knowledge of agricultural pursuits on the old homestead, giving his assistance to his father in operating the farm. He pursued his studies in the common schools of the neighborhood, after which it was his privilege to attend the Decorah Institute, which is located at Decorah, Winneshiek County, this state, where he continued his studies for three years. In 1887 he began his business career by clerking in the drug store operated by Bayless & Hagensick. During this time he studied to become a pharmacist, and secured a diploma from the State Board of Pharmacy on the completion of a required course and after passing a strict examination. The same year he took charge of the Elkader Drug Company of this place, which position he held until October, 1892. The State Bank of Elkader was then organized and he was offered the position of Cashier, which he accepted, having held the post up to the present time. Being a young man of great ability, he has shown himself to be fully capable of discharging the duties of this position, and by his genial and affable manner makes many friends and customers for the bank. His home is in this city, where he is received in the best social circles. Though a young man, he has considerable general business experience and manifests great sagacity and good judgment in dealing with financial matters.

McB. McGONIGLE makes his home in Elkader, and is prominent in the ranks of the Democratic party. By the votes of the people he was elected in 1890 to his present position of trust and honor as Deputy County Clerk of Clayton County, He numbers a host of warm personal friends, and by his energetic and business-like manner convinces all who have the pleasure of meeting him that he is amply qualified to discharge the duties pertaining to his post. A native of Clayton County, he was born in Monona, September 28, 1870, and though a young man, has already acquired a good reputation as a sagacious and far-sighted man of business and a financier.

JAMES MCGRATH, Freight Agent for the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad at Dubuque, is one of the oldest railroad employes in years of continued service west of Chicago, and is one of the most trusted and efficient as well. With large corporations like railroad concerns, no leniency is exercised, and every duty must be promptly and faithfully performed. His fidelity to the trusts reposed in him has brought to Mr. McGrath long retention in the railway service, and his record is one of which he may well be proud.

Although of Irish birth, our subject retains no recollection of the land of his birth, for he was only nine months old when brought to this country by his parents, John and Ellen (O'Connell) McGrath, He was born in County Kilkenney, August 16, 1835, and in 1836 the family came to America, settling at Tomkins Cove, on the Hudson River in Rockland County, N.Y. There were fourteen children in the parental family, nine being daughters and four sons, of whom our subject is the eldest born. Thomas, the second son, was drowned in the Hudson River, July 4, 1848, During the cholera epidemic in 1854, a sister died, August 15, a brother August 16, and the mother August 18.

In Rockland County, N. Y., our subject passed the years of early boyhood, and in the common schools laid the foundation of his education. In 1852 he removed with his family to Chicago, and in the spring of the following year entered the employ of the Chicago & Illinois, now the Chicago & Northwestern Railway Company, Securing a clerical position in the office of that road, he continued in that capacity until 1864. During that year Mr. McGrath went to Winona, Minn., and for a short time filled the position of Cashier of the Winona & St. Peter's Railroad. Somewhat later he went to Rochester, Minn., and was there employed as agent for four years. In 1870 ho became the agent for the Milwaukee & St. Paul at Austin, Minn. On the 1st of March, 1882, he was transferred to Dubuque, being placed in charge of the Freight and Passenger Departments of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad. Two years were thus spent, since which time his work has been confined exclusively to the Freight Department. His railroad service covers a period of forty-one years, and reflects the highest credit upon his honesty and uprightness. On the 14th of April, 1855, occurred the marriage of Mr. McGrath and Miss Ann A. Mathews, of Chicago, a sister of Thomas Mathews, a prominent real-estate dealer of that city. They have had ten children: Alice C., who was born April 28,1856; Ellen, November 26,1857; Ann, December 16, 1859; Thomas, September 2, 1861; James Henry, November 28, 1868; John Joseph, September 80, 1865; Mary, December 31, 1867; Alice, February 19, 1870; Ann, April 12, 1872; and Thomas P., March 14, 1874. Six of the family are deceased, viz.: Ann, who died August 2, 1860; Alice C., January 15, 1861; Thomas, June 26, 1864; James Henry, March 25, 1887; Alice, January 4, 1898, and Mary, August 19, 1894, The surviving members of the household are Ellen, John J.; Ann, wife of P. Gandolfo; and Thomas P. The example of the father may well be followed by the children, and is worthy of emulation by all who wish to live straightforward and honorable lives. In religious belief Mr. McGrath and his family are connected with the Catholic Church. In matters pertaining to local advancement he takes a warm interest, and in politics advocates the Democratic principles.

JOHN A. McLAUGHLIN is one of the prominent and well-to-do farmers of Castle Grove Township, his postoffice being Monticello, His history has been during his entire life interwoven with that of Jones County, for here his birth occurred June 13, 1845, and, with the exception of a few terms when he was away at college, he has rarely been outside the county limits. He comes from one of the worthy pioneer families who were the founders of the prosperity which has come in so great a measure to this region. His parents, James and Mary (Hill) McLaughlin, were both natives of Ireland, who, when in childhood, came to the United States, Their marriage was solemnized in New York State, and in 1837 they came to Jones County, locating on a piece of land in Wayne Township, which is now the property of the Hon. George W. Lovell. At that early day there were few neighbors and no schools or other advantages.

The family later removed to Castle Grove Township, where the father entered a tract of land from the Government, and from time to time, as his resources increased, extended the boundaries of his farm, until, at the time of his death, which occurred in 1873, he owned a valuable farm comprising five hundred acres. The faithful wife and mother, who had truly been a helpmate in every sense of the word to her industrious husband, survived him many years, passing from this life in 1892. By her marriage she became the mother of three sons and three daughters, namely, Anna, Elizabeth, Michael, James W., John A., and Mary J., who died at the age of seven years.

John A. McLaughlin is the fourth in order of birth of the surviving children of his parents. He received a good district school education, and afterwards attended the Hopkinton (now Lenox) College, located at Hopkinton, Iowa, In 1863 he went to Wisconsin, where he passed six months in college work, and on leaving there prosecuted his studies for two terms in the excellent Notre Dame University of South Bend, Ind. Later he returned to Lenox College, being a student there for two terms more. Thus equipped for the practical duties of life with a good foundation of general knowledge and information, the young man returned to the old homestead and began in earnest to make his own way. In his boyhood he had been familiar from actual practice with general farm duties, and now began paying special attention to stock raising and dairy farming. From forty to fifty cows were daily milked, the product being sold to neighboring creameries, arid from this source a steady and reliable income was derived. The first purchase by our subject was one hundred and sixty acres of land in this township, he has pushed his business enterprises successfully, and as his means accumulated invested in more land, and has continued in this policy until he now finds himself the fortunate possessor of eight hundred acres of valuable land, most of which is under high cultivation. The buildings on the farm are substantial and well kept. There are two large barns, a fine residence and attractive surroundings, and everything about the place gives evidence of the careful supervision of the owner.

In 1877 Mr. McLaughlin married Miss Allie Downer, of Jones County, who was born and reared within its limits. Her father, the late Horace Downer, was one of the early settlers and pioneers of this locality. To Mr. and Mrs. McLaughlin have been born six sons and a daughter, whose names are as follows: Frank J., William, John, Rollo, Clarence, Minnie and Eugene. In his political faith our subject is a thorough-going Republican, having given that party his support since he was first able to vote. He has never sought nor desired public office.

M. F. McNAMARA, Supervisor of Dubuque County, is one of those progressive, wide-awake farmers who find both pleasure and profit in cultivating the soil, and by means of dignity and ability tend to raise the standard of their chosen occupation. His possessions aggregate five hundred and forty acres on section 27, Table Mound Township, and they form one of the most valuable and highly cultivated tracts in the county. Our subject was born in the city of Dubuque, August 17, 1840, and is the son of John McNamara, a native of Ireland, who came to America when a lad of seventeen years. The latter was born June 24, 1804, and prior to his emigration had received a fair education in the public schools near his home. In 1835 he located in Dubuque, where he worked in the lead mines by the day for a time, after which he engaged in business for himself for twelve years. At the end of that time John McNamara purchased four hundred acres of land in Table Mound Township, which he placed under admirable tillage and resided upon until 1874, when, having accumulated a handsome fortune, he retired and moved to the city of Dubuque, He was well and favorably known throughout the county, and departed this life April 6, 1880, greatly mourned by all who knew him. His brother, Michael McNamara, was a civil engineer and for a time was inspector of arms and ammunition in the army, and served under General Jackson for five years.

The maiden name of our subject's mother was Bridget Gearon, of French descent. Her father served as a Colonel in the French army. Mrs. McNamara was born in Ireland, and when fifteen years of age was orphaned and emigrated with friends to America, She made her home for a time in Troy, N. Y., after which she came to Dubuque, and in 1839 was married to John McNamara. She departed this life in 1861 at the age of fifty years.

The parental family of our subject comprised one daughter and three sons, of whom M. F., was the eldest. John, born in 1841, died at the age of twenty years; Catherine, born in 1843, became the wife of James Boland, of Dubuque, and James E. was born in July, 1845, and died May 21, 1891, M. F. received his primary education in the schools of Dubuque, and also attended in Table Mound Township, He afterward carried on his studies in Bully's College, in Dubuque, from which institution he was graduated in 1873. The year prior to receiving his diploma, however, he opened a grain and commission business with M. Brown, and continued to operate with him for four years. At that time our subject disposed of his interest in the business and moved to Parsons, Kan., where he engaged in the same business and at the same time owned a half-interest in a steam flouring mill in that city. He remained there until the spring of 1881, when he returned to Dubuque and located on the old homestead, having previously purchased the property from the rest of the heirs. He has since carried on the business of a general farmer, giving special attention to raising of fine grades of stock, and has on his estate some of the finest and most valuable animals to be found in the county.

Mr. McNamara cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln, and continued to vote the straight Republican ticket until an effort was made to nominate Grant for the third term, since which time he has cast his ballot for Democratic candidates. He has been the recipient of various offices of trust within the power of his fellow-townsmen to bestow, and for three terms was Clerk of his township and is now serving his second term as County Supervisor.

October 6, 1876, our subject and Miss Bell Armstrong were united in marriage. The lady was born in Nebraska City, Neb., in October, 1858. Her grandfather served as a patriot in the Revolutionary War, and made his home where is now the city of Cincinnati, before there was any indication of its reaching its future greatness in numbers. To Mr. and Mrs. McNamara there have been born three sons and five daughters, bearing the respective names of Estella K, born in 1878, who is attending school in Dubuque; John A,, born in 1879; Jennie, in 1882; Lorena, in 1883; Lettitia B., in 1885; Willard F., in 1886; Leona, in 1888, and Michael F., in 1890. Mr. McNamara is a devout member of the Catholic Church, in the faith of which he is rearing his children.

WILLIAM J. MORGANS

One of the beautiful rural abodes of Dubuque County is known as "Maplehurst." It is situated amid beautiful surroundings in Dubuque Township, The residence is a neat and comfortable house, suggesting by its interior arrangements the refined tastes of the family. The outbuildings and other improvements are equally well adapted to their varied uses. Here Mr. Morgans and his amiable wife make their home and hospitably entertain their hosts of friends who come thither. The Morgans family is of Welsh and English descent, and the immediate progenitors of our subject were of foreign birth. His parents, William J. and Barbara (Lewis) Morgans, were born in Wales, but came to this country in childhood. The father, who was a stone mason by trade, followed that occupation after coming to the United States, His death occurred in New Jersey in 1891, at the age of seventy-seven years. His wife died in Luzerne County, Pa., June 10, 1848,

The subject of this sketch was born in Luzerne County, Pa., February 25, 1828, and in youth learned the trade of a stone mason and stonecutter. At the age of sixteen he left home and began the struggle of life for himself. Coming directly to Dubuque, he followed his trade for some time. During the winter of 1856-57 he engaged in mining and was fortunate enough to strike a valuable lead. He continued mining until the outbreak of the Civil War, when, his sympathies aroused in behalf of the Union cause, he enlisted in the army in October, 1861, becoming a member of Company E, Fifth Iowa Cavalry, He was a brave soldier, never shirking a duty but participating with his company in the thickest of every fight.

Being honorably discharged at the expiration of his term of service, Mr. Morgans returned to Dubuque and resumed his former occupation of a miner. October 26, 1865, he established domestic ties, being united in marriage with Miss Priscilla, daughter of Richard and Jane Bonson. Further mention concerning the family history is made in the sketch of Richard Bonson, presented on another page of this volume. The family is one of prominence and considerable influence, and the pleasant home occupied by Mr. Morgans is a part of the old Bonson farm, which she has inherited.

There have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Morgans four children: Richard B., William C., Priscilla E. and Samuel S. The children are well educated, having attended the best schools of Dubuque, After his marriage our subject lived in Dubuque and vicinity for several years, and thence moved to his present home. Though practically retired from life's active duties, he still engages in mining during the winter seasons. His private duties have been so engrossing as to preclude participation in public affairs, but notwithstanding this he takes a commendable interest in matters of local and general importance, and advocates the principles of the Republican party. With his family he attends the Methodist Episcopal Church.

JAMES MULLIN

The career of this gentleman has been marked by enterprise, industry and well directed efforts that have been rewarded by the accumulation of a considerable amount of property and the machinery and took necessary for the management of a first class farm. Mr. Mullin is one of those Irish-American citizens of whom we have reason to be proud in account of the example they present of industry, morality and good citizenship. He is at present living in Dubuque Township, Dubuque County, and is the proprietor of over two hundred acres of land.

Mr. Mullin was born in County Derry, Ireland, in 1818, and is the son of Henry and Ann (Diamand) Mullin, farmers by occupation, who lived and died in the Emerald Isle. The parental family included five children, who, with hardly an exception, were farmers. The grandfather of our subject, James Mullin, lived to the remarkable age of one hundred and twenty years.

The subject of this sketch was reared on his father's farm in Ireland, and a year after attaining his majority emigrated to the United States on the sailing-vessel "Fannie" which landed him several weeks later in Philadelphia, He remained there but a short time, however, and then came to Dubuque County, where he has made his home ever since and is well and favorably known. Mr. Mullin was recently attacked by a crazy man and received four bullets from his gun, none of which were of a very serious nature, however.

James Mullin and Miss Mary A. Kingsley were united in marriage in 1876. The lady is a native of Plymouth, Mass., having been born February 28, 1855, to William and Bridget (Gilloon) Kingsley. Her father is still living on the old home farm, but her mother died many years ago. To Mr. and Mrs. Mullin were born nine children, bearing the respective names of Henry, William, Cornelius, Martha, James, Grace, John, Katie and Frank. The parents are members in good standing of the Catholic Church, in the progress of which they take a great interest. In political affairs Mr. Mullin is a straightforward Democrat, believing that the principles laid down in the platform of that party are best adapted to the needs of the nation.

Mr. Mullin's estate comprises two hundred acres, embellished with all needful buildings and the machinery necessary for the successful prosecution of farm pursuits. He has been a hard worker, but is now practically retired from active duties and is enjoying his declining years amid the comforts which he provided for in his earlier life.