The following biographies were scanned from the remnants of a book that apparently was a copy of "The History of Polk County, Iowa" published by the Union Historical Company, Birdsall, Williams & Co. 1880.  Marion John Rice has a copyright to this transcription file and gives permission for this file to be posted to at the Iowa Biographies Projects. CLAY TOWNSHIP. ARROWOOD, G. W.-Farmer, section 19, P. O. Altoona. Was born in North Carolina, January 31, 1842, and was raised and lived there until February, 1863, when he was conscripted into the Confederate army and was assigned to the First Tennessee heavy artillery. He served until July 4, 1863, when, at the fall of Vicksburg, he was captured with many others and greeted Grant with loud cheers as he rode into the city. He would not take a parole but remained and came north, enlisting in August, 1862, in company F, Sixth Indiana cavalry, and served to the close of the war. He was discharged in September, 1865, after which he returned to North Carolina and remained until 1866, when he removed to Tennessee, and from there to Missouri the same year. He remained two years and in 1869 came to this State. He has made farming his occupation through life. Was married April 17, 1866, to Miss Rebecca J. Shanks, a native of Tennessee. They have four children living: Fannie E., Hattie, William W. and Rosa B. 942 BIOGRAPHICAL. BAKER, G. R.-Retired, Altoona. Was born March 17,1818, in Somerset county, Pennsylvania, and at the age of fourteen came West with his parents, settling in Montgomery county, Ohio. He was raised there on a farm and received an education. In 1840 he moved to Wayne county, Indiana, where he learned the blacksmith's trade and followed it until 1855, when he came to Iowa and located in Greencastle, Jasper county, there engaging in farming. In 1857 he became a minister of the Dunkard or Brethren Church. Has organized several churches during his ministerial career and accomplished much good. In 1869 he rented his lands and retired from farming and moved to this city where he bought out the stock of merchandise of Mr: Champion. He enlarged the stock and took his son, George W., and Frank Raman into partnership in the business, but two years later he sold out the store to his partners and retired from active business life and since that time has devoted his entire attention to the ministry. He owns 400 acres of fine land beside his fine property in and near Altoona. Was married April 14, 1839, to Miss Elizabeth Schultz, a native of Bedford county, Pennsylvania. They have six children: Christina S. (wife of Frank Raman, of Altoona), George W., William H. S. and Kate M., living, and two sons, Daniel W. and John M., deceased. The former enlisted in the Thirteenth Iowa infantry, and died in Jefferson City, Missouri, March 10, 1862. John M. enlisted in the Seventh Iowa cavalry, and died October 23, 1868, from the effects of poison taken while in the army. BISHARD, JOHN C.-Farmer, section 30, P. O. Altoona. Was born in Guernsey county, Ohio, January 25, 1812, and there received his education in the common schools. At the age of nineteen he went to learn the carpenter's trade and worked at it for three years, when he engaged in farming and has since followed the same. In 1859 he came to this State and located at Des Moines, and in 1869 moved upon his present farm, consisting of forty acres. January 1, 1833, he was married to Miss Charlotta Chambers, a native of Guernsey county, Ohio. They have a family of nine children: Daniel, Emaline (wife of Solomon Stutsman, of Des Moines), Ganimer and Sarah A., living, and five deceased. BISHARD, D. C.-Farmer, section 20, P. O. Altoona. Was born in Grundy county, Ohio, August 16, 1839, and in 1859 he came with his parents to this State, locating in Des Moines. June 1,1863, he enlisted in company M, Eighth Iowa cavalry, and was promoted to sergeant of his company. He was wounded in the right knee which has made him a cripple for life at Lovejoy Station, Georgia, July 29, 1864, and was taken prisoner at the same time and sent to Andersonville prison, where he was confined nine months. The surgeon wanted to amputate his limb, but he protested so strongly that the officers concluded to let it remain, thinking they would starve him to death. How near they succeeded may be judged from the fact that when he was released he weighed 75 pounds, his usual weight being 185 pounds. From Andersonville he was sent to Cohaba, Alabama, and was recaptured by General Steele's command on the 28th of April, 1865. After the capture of Mobile he was sent to that city, where he remained about three weeks and was then moved to New Orleans on a hospital boat, and from there to Cairo, Illinois. Here he was discharged May 31, 1865. After somewhat recovering his health he engaged in running a notion wagon and followed the same two years. In 1870 he engaged CLAY TOWNSHIP. 943 in farming. He was married September 26, 1875, to Miss Frances Miller, a native of Ohio. BOOTH, DR. W. H.--Physician and surgeon, Altoona. Was born in Jasper county, Iowa, January 14, 1853, and was there raised, being educated in the Hazel Dell Academy. At the age of twenty years he began the study of medicine with J. R. Gorrell, M. D., of Newton, with whom he remained three years. He attended the medical department of the Iowa State University, from which he graduated in 1877. He began the practice of his profession in 1876, at Idaho, Hardin county, this State, and after graduating came to Altoona in March, 1877. In 1878 he became associated in the drug business with L. O. Shaffer, under the firm name of Shaffer & Booth, which he still carries on in connection with his practice. He was married May 12, 1876, to Miss E. A. White, a native of the same county as himself: Their family consists of two children: Jessie and Willie. CANFIELD, ELIJAH-Farmer, section 32, P. 0. Altoona. Is a native of Susquehanna county, Pennsylvania, and was born September 8, 1807. Was raised a farmer and resided in his native county until the spring of 1845, when he came to Mahaska county, Iowa. In the fall of the same year he came to this county and located on section 5, Camp township, living there three years, then sold out, moved to Four Mile township, locating on section 36. Two years later he again sold out, came to Clay township, and located where he now lives, on section 32. Here he found but a wide, wild prairie, but being a man of great energy and an indomitable will he braved the storms and privations of the pioneer life, and began the improvement and cultivation of his farm, and in this his hopes have been realized. Here he can pass the remainder of his days in company with his wife, who has shared his lot. His home has ever been the resort of the old settlers, and it is one in which is always found warm hearts to welcome all. He helped to organize the first class of the M. E. Church, in the fall of 1845, at his home on section 5, Camp township, Rev. Mr. Russel officiating. Rev. E. Rathbun was one of the first men to preach there. He also organized the first school districts in the same township, and helped build the first school-house in Four Mile township, on section 36, in 1847. Each one of the settlers furnished two logs, and they built the house. He also saw the first bushel of grain ground in the county. This occurred at Parmelee's mill, and Mr. Parmelee had sent a notice through the county to everybody to be present, and to insure an audience he had procured a ten gallon demijohn of whisky. Although our subject went early he was too late to obtain a drop of the liquor. He has been elected justice of the peace and a member of the Board of County Supervisors, township assessor and treasurer. The latter office he now holds. There have been but few years since his residence in the county that he has not held some public office. Though now past three score and ten years, he bids fair to see many more years of usefulness. He owns one hundred acres of land, and has the oldest orchard in the township. He was married January 1, 1830, to Miss Tirzah M. Kinsman, a native of Vermont. They have nine children: Rosella (wife of Willis Mills of Dallas county), G. P., Lydia (wife of Jesse Packer of Four Mile township), Sarah (wife of Samuel Mullihan of Nebraska), and Johanna (wife of Joseph Miller of Nebraska), living, and four deceased. CANFIELD, G. P.-Farmer, section 29, P. O. Altoona. Was born in Susquehanna county, Pennsylvania, April 8, 1843, and in 1845 came with his parents to Iowa, settling in Mahaska county, and one year later he came 944 BIOGRAPHICAL. to this county. He first located in Camp township. He was educated in. the common schools, supplemented by a course at a business College in Des. Moines. He has experienced all the hardships of the early pioneer life, having come to this county when a mere child, and is one of the oldest settlers of the county. He owns one of the finest farms in the township, containing two hundred and eighty acres. CANFIELD, HOMER-Farmer, section 29, P. O. Altoona. Was born in Susquehanna county, Pennsylvania, September 11, 1834, and when an infant his parents removed to Bradford county, same State, where he was raised and educated. In the spring of 1856 he came to Iowa and located on section 28, Beaver township, of this county. In February, 1879, he moved upon his present farm of two hundred and seventy-six acres. Has held several township offices, and is at present one of the trustees of Clay township. Has been twice married; first, January 26, 1858, to Miss Dicy Vice, who died April 25, 1873, leaving three children: John H., Owen F. and Walter B. Was married again September 24, 1873, to Miss Elizabeth Sturgeon, a native of Indiana. They have one child, Dennis N. CHAVANNES, E.-Grocer, Altoona. Was born in East Tennessee, April 12, 1850, and grew to manhood on a farm. He was educated in Perkshire select schools, New York, and the Agricultural College at Ames, this State. In the fall of 1873 he moved to Illinois and taught school during the winter; and in the spring of 1874 came to Iowa and located in Des Moines. He taught school in different parts of the county for about two years, and while attending the college at Ames taught winters. In May, 1874, he came to Altoona and opened a grocery and provision store, which he still keeps, and has a fine trade. He was married December 9, 1877, to Miss Carrie Groseclose, a native of Indiana. They have one child, Adrian J. Mr. Chavannes is of French ancestry and speaks that language. CHENEY, D. A.-Grain-dealer, Altoona. Was born January 19, 1842, and is a native of Berkshire county, Massachusetts; he was raised a farmer, and in 1866 moved to New Jersey, following farming there about four years. In 1869 he came to this State and located in Douglas township, this county, where he lived one year; then came to Altoona, built the elevator he now owns, and began the grain business, which he has since followed. December 19, 1871, he was married to Miss Elizabeth B. Haines, a native of Carroll county, Ohio. They have lost one child, Arthur W. CLAYTON, J. P.-Mechanic, Altoona. Was born in Sullivan county, New York, November 1, 1828, and was raised there and educated in the common schools. In 1855 he came to this State and located near Monroe, Jasper county. In 1856 he went to Jefferson county, Kansas, and engaged in working at the carpenter's trade, and then commenced farming. He returned to Iowa in October, 1876, and settled in this place, where he has since resided. . He was married March 1, 1860, to Mrs. Milanesea Queen, a native of Indiana. They have four children; Mattie L., living, and three deceased. CUMMINS, JAMES-Farmer and stock-raiser, section 2, P. O. Greenwood. Was born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, in 1832. He followed the occupation of a farmer and teamster; and in 1856 moved to Henderson county, Illinois, where he lived until 1867, when he came to this county and settled in his present location. He now owns one hundred CLAY TOWNSHIP. 945 and eighty-two acres of land, and all under cultivation. He was married in the summer of 1856 to Miss Sarah A. Wallace of his native county. They have two children living. Myrta, Irene and Frank. DONALDSON, SAMUEL-Wagon-maker and wheelwright, Altoona. Was born February 17,1852, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In 1860 he accompanied his parents to this State, locating in Lucas county. In 1856 they moved to Warren county, and he lived there until 1872, when he returned to Pittsburgh to learn his trade with Mr. McMasters; he worked there until the spring of 1876, when he went to the Black Hills, spending about eighteen months there, and then returned to Marion county. In 1878 he came to Altoona and opened a wagon shop which he still keeps. He was married July 8, 1877, to Miss Margaret Thornton, a native of Missouri. They have one child, Arthur O. Mr. Donaldson has just applied for a patent on a force pump which is claimed to be far superior to anything now in use. For drawing water out of deep wells it is said to be a great success. ELLIS, H. A.-Farmer, section 36, P. O. Rising Sun. Was born in Orleans county, New York, August 2, 1823. His parents having died he was thrown on his own resources, and when fifteen years of age he removed to Michigan, and at the age of twenty-one years he engaged in the saw mill and lumber business, which he followed until 1865, when he came to Iowa, locating at Rising Sun. He engaged in farming and remained there one year, and then bought a farm at Saylorville, living upon the same for one and a half years. He then sold out and came upon his present farm of one hundred and twenty-six acres. He was married January 25, 1851, to Miss Jane Briggs, a native of New York State. They have four children: Clara (wife of Chas. Tarbell), Lizzie (wife of Jack Leftwitch of Nebraska), and Albert J., living; and one, Willie, deceased. ENGLISH, DR. F. E.-Physician and surgeon, Altoona. Was born in Oldham county, Kentucky, July 2, 1841. His parents came to Indiana in October, 1855, and located in Montgomery county, where he was raised. He received his education at Ladoga Academy, of which M. B. Hopkins was principal. At the age of nineteen years he began the study of medicine with his father, R. G. English, M. D., now of Des Moines. January 27, 1864, he graduated from the Rush Medical College, of Chicago, Illinois, and at once began the practice of his profession with his father at Ladoga; remaining there until 1868, when he came to Iowa and located in Des Moines. In April, 1870, he came to Altoona, and has since remained. He has built up a large and constantly increasing practice. He was instrumental in the organization of the present township of Clay; and when the town of Altoona was incorporated, he was elected its first mayor. He was married December 20, 1866, to Miss Kate M. Hampton, a native of Kentucky. They have two children: Emery H. and Arthur G. FIRESTONE, JOHN S.-Farmer, section 36, P. O. Rising Sun. Was born March 1, 1849, in Wayne county, Ohio, and when fifteen years of age he came with his parents to this State, and resided with his uncle, B. F. Frederick, for one year. He then located on section 34, in Delaware township, this county, and in 1868 moved upon his present farm. He has followed farming all his life, and now owns one hundred and twenty acres of land. During the war he enlisted in the One Hundred and Twentieth Ohio, but was rejected on account of his age. Is unmarried. He has al- BIOGRAPHICAL 946 ways taken an active interest in the politics of the day, and is one of the solid men of the township. HAINES, T. E.-Grain-dealer, Altoona. Was born in Carroll county, Ohio, on the 21st of January, 1831, there being educated and raised. He spent his youth in the cultivation of the soil, and thus the great principle of industry has followed him through life. In 1863 he came to Iowa and located in Mahaska county, bringing a herd of sheep numbering about 3,000 head. In 1867 he sold them and opened an extensive grocery store in Oskaloosa, which he kept for one year. In the spring of 1869 he came to this town and built the steam elevator which he now owns, it being the first one in that place. This he has continued to keep, devoting almost his entire time to the grain business, in which he has been very successful. He has been town trustee for the past eight years, and held the office of city councilman, and has also been mayor of the city. He was married Aug ust 24, 1869, to Miss Loretta J. Berridge, a native of Ohio, and daughter of William Berridge, of Martinsburgh, Keokuk county. They have no family. HAWKINS, W. S.-Farmer, section 25, P. O. Altoona. Was born in Bartholomew county, Indiana, August 14,1840, and at the age of nine years he came with his parents to this State and located in Four Mile township. Here he has been raised on a farm and educated. Has followed farming all his life and has made nearly all of his large estate by his hard work and strict attention to business. In September, 1869, he moved upon his present place and has since resided here, owning a farm of 252 acres. Was married January 1, 1867, to Miss Anna M. Hick, a native of Yorkshire, England. She emigrated to the United States when fourteen years of age. They have no children. HEMSTREET, NICHOLAS-Retired farmer, Altoona. Was born in the State of New York, October 13, 1815, where he was raised, obtaining his education from the common schools. In 1845 he came to Wisconsin while it was yet a Territory and located in Green county, there engaging in farming. This he followed until September 14, 1868, when he sold the most of his property and came to this State, settling in Altoona. He built one of the first store rooms and opened a general store and sold the first dry goods, boots and shoes, etc., in the place. He continued in the business about three years and then retired from business to live a more quiet life. He owns farms to the extent of about 300 acres, all under improvements, besides his fine residence and other property in the city. Although more than three-score years have passed him he is still full of vigor and bids fair to live many years and enjoy his hard-earned competency. His family were the first to settle in Altoona and he was the first justice of the peace elected in that city. On the 16th of June, 1839, he was married to Miss Ellen Wessel, a native of New York. They have four children: Herman S. C. and Melvina C., living, and two deceased. HENRY, B. W.-Proprietor of livery and feed stable, Altoona. Was born in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, August 26, 1834, where he was raised and educated in the old log school-house with its "slab benches and puncheon floors." In 1856 he moved to Hardin county, Ohio, and there followed farming until 1862, when he came to Iowa and located in this county near Mitchellville, living there for one year and then moved into the old town of Mitchellville. In 1865 he moved to his farm on section 7, of this township, where he owns 240 acres of well-improved land. In 1874 CLAY TOWNSHIP. 947 he rented his farm and came to this town and engaged in the butchering business, continuing the same for one year, then opened a general store, which he kept until the fall of 1878, and then built his present livery and feed barn. Has held several township offices and in 1879 was mayor of this city. November 26, 1856, he was married to Miss E. C. Bowers, a native of Ohio. They have one child, Carrie, who is one of the teachers in the public school. HERRICK, ALONZO-Altoona. Was born on the 18th of December, 1824, in Yates county, New York, and he was raised on a farm. When nineteen years of age he went to Wisconsin and located in Walnut county, residing there until 1869, at which time he came to this county, locating in Douglas township. There he lived three years and then came to this town, where he has lived since. He has been marshal of the city of Altoona four years and has been constable for the last seven years. He still holds the latter office. Was married February 13,1847, to Miss Maria Gray, a native of St. Lawrence county, New York. They have four children: Charles, Clara (wife of Benton Osborne, of Altoona), Jane (wife of Charles Woodbrow, of Audubon county, Iowa) and Clarence. HICK, CHARLES-Farmer, section 31, P. O. Altoona. Was born April 7, 1814, and is a native of Yorkshire, England. There he was raised, receiving his education in the select boarding schools. He learned the trade of millwright and followed the business until 1858, when he emigrated to the United States. He came to this State and located at Rising Sun, where he engaged in working at Davis' saw mill. This he continued for about six years, during which time he sawed the lumber for the courthouse in Des Moines, the Savery (now Kirkwood) House and the old Court Avenue bridge. In 1864 he came upon his present farm, consisting of about 100 acres. We bought the land when in a wild state and has made all of the improvements. He was married in January, 1839, to Miss Mary Jackman, a native of England. They have eight children: Charles, Annie (wife of Willis Hawkins), Alfred, George H., Walter, Laura and Robert E., living and one, Thomas, deceased. HICK, GEORGE H.-Farmer, section 29, P. O. Altoona. Was born in England, December 27,1847, and in 1856 emigrated with his parents to the United States. He came to Iowa and located at Rising Sun, Grant township, this county. Here he has been raised and educated and has followed farming all his life. Is the owner of forty acres of land. Was married October 6, 1869, to Miss Annetta Runyon, a native of Clay township, this county. They have eight children: Lizzie M., William, Lundy, Mary G. and an infant living. Lost three. INGLE, W. T.-Stock and grain-dealer, Altoona. Is a native of Henry county, Kentucky, and was born January 25, 1827. In 1831 he moved with his parents to Edgar county, Illinois, where he was raised, helping to clear a large farm in a heavily-timbered country. In 1855 he came to this State and located at Vandalia, Jasper county, where he was engaged in hauling goods from Keokuk to the former place. In the spring of 1859 he made a trip to Pike's Peak but returned to Vandalia in October of the same year. He resumed his former occupation of teaming and followed it until the breaking out of the war. September 28, 1861, he enlisted in company E, Fourteenth Iowa infantry, and served until January, 1864, when he was honorably discharged. He veteranized for three years or during the war. During his service he was promoted orderly-sergeant of his 948 BIOGRAPHICAL. company and at the battle of Shiloh was captured, April 6, 1862, and sent to Memphis, remained in the hospital there four days, thence to Mobile, Alabama, where he remained two weeks; was again moved to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, remained about six weeks and then went to Montgomery, where he was paroled. He was sent north to the Union lines and from there to the parole camps at-St. Louis, Missouri. Remained here about one month, when he took a "brush furlough" and came home. Was exchanged November 8,1862, and soon returned to the front and went into camp at Columbus Junction, Kentucky. He was in eleven hard-fought battles, beside numerous skirmishes, viz: Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Ft. Derusha, Pleasant Hills, Alexandria, Old Town, Louisiana, Yellow Bayou, Old Town, Mississippi, Rolla, Missouri, Fort Davis and Canton Station. He served until the close of the war and was discharged August 4, 1865, at Davenport. After returning home he followed farming until September, 1874, when he came to Altoona, and in July, 1875, formed a partnership with M. Madagan in the lumber business. In the spring of 1876 he sold his interest to Mr. Madagan and started a yard on his own account, which he kept until the spring of 1879 and then sold his stock. Since that time he has been engaged in the grain and stock business. Was married October 10, 1867, to Eliza J. Stallcop, born October 3, 1834, in Hillsborough, Ohio. By this union they have three children: S. E. (born May '10, 1869), A. E. (born December 13, 1872) and W. F. (born April 2., 1874). All living. JOHNSON, J. E.-Farmer, section 36, P. O. Rising Sun. Was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, June 28, 1821, and at the age of fourteen, removed with his parents to Miami county, Indiana. There he was raised on a farm, and educated in the common schools. In 1856 he came to Iowa and located in Jasper county, where he lived three years, and then came to Rising Sun, this county, where he lived four years. In 1863 he came upon his present place. Has followed farming all his life, and now owns 263 acres of land. Was married November 4, 1849 to Miss Mary Cox, a native Miami county, Ohio. They have four children living: J. C. Fremont, Tressa E., Elijah G. and Hala. Lost three. JOHNSON, A. R.-Stock-dealer, Altoona. Was born May 18, 1852 in Van Wert county, Ohio, and in 1855 his parents came to this county, locating near Trullinger's Grove, in Franklin township. He followed farming all his life until the spring of 1880, when he sold his farm and engaged in buying and shipping stock in partnership with John Martin. They are the largest stock shippers from the place, and are doing an extensive business. He was married January 9, 1874, to Miss Mary Brown, a native of Ohio. They have three children: Emily J., Lass W. and Maud, all living- LAIN, R. C.-Agent of the C., R. I. & P. R. R., Altoona. Was born in New York, June 27, 1843, and was raised and educated there. In the fall of 1862 he moved to Wisconsin, and engaged in teaching school. In the spring of 1863 he returned to New York, and then went to Washington City, and was there employed by the government until 1864, as clerk in the Commissioner's Department. In 1864 he attended the commercial college, at Elmira, New York, remaining there four months as student and three months as assistant book-keeper. During the summer of 1865, he was engaged in the patent right business, and in August of the same year went to New York City, and engaged in clerking. In November he returned to Elmira, and thence to Wisconsin and northern Illinois. In the spring of 1866, he returned to New York. In August, to Washington, and CLAY TOWNSHIP. 949 in November went to Georgia, as route agent of the post-office Department. In 1867, he was promoted to postal clerk from Atlanta, to Chattanooga, and occupied that position until August, 1869, when, on account of political differences, he returned to Elmira. In the Spring Of 1870, he came to Chicago, and shortly afterward to Des Moines, and commenced work for the C., R. I. & P. R. R., at Des Moines. In November, 1870, he went to Casey, and in February, 1872, came to Altoona, as the agent of the company. He was married June 4, 1868, in Atlanta, Georgia, to Miss Mary G. Angier, a native of Wisconsin. They have three children: Lena C. and Guy living, and one, an infant, deceased. MADAGAN,- M.-Farmer and grain dealer, Altoona. Was born in St. Lawrence county, New York, October 15, 1839, and in 1853, his father moved to Canada, where our subject grew to manhood, receiving his education in the common schools. In 1859, he moved to Jefferson county, New York, where he resided until 1866, when he moved to Wisconsin, remaining there two years. In 1868, he came to Iowa, settling in this county, and located on section 25, this township, where he bought a farm and worked it four ,years. He then rented his farm, and bought out the lumber yard at Altoona, which he continued to keep until the fall of 1869, when he again sold out and began dealing in corn at this place. He is now the owner of three good farms of 160 acres each, and a fine residence in the town. He also owns 320 acres of land in Montgomery county, Illinois. All this large estate has been made by his own efforts. He is a man of sterling worth and sound judgment, always doing his business on firm business principles. Has held several of the township offices, and is now mayor of the city. He was married January 1, 1864, to Miss Lucy Delano, daughter of John Delano, of Jefferson county, New York. She died February 29, 1876, leaving two children: Libbie and Jessie. He was married again January 15,1877, to Miss Mattie Cree, daughter of David Cree, of this place. They have one child, Blanche. OGLEVIE, J. F.-Farmer, section 35, P. O. Rising Sun. Was born in Vermillion county, Indiana, March 7, 1832, and he accompanied his parents to Vermillion county, Illinois, where he lived a few years and came to Iowa in 1843, locating in Keokuk county. In the spring of 1847, he came to this county, and located on section 35, of this township. Here he has grown to manhood on a farm, and was educated in the common schools. He is one of the oldest settlers now living in the county. In the spring of 1857, he came upon his present farm, consisting of ninety-five acres. When he took possession of this farm, he lived for four years in a shanty twelve by twelve, with four posts set in the round, and boards nailed upon these, then a layer of plaster, and then board again. The floor was covered with boards hewn out of large trees. He was married December 6, 1856, to Miss Jane Knox, a native of Ohio. They have nine children: Emma J., Anna Rosa, J. F. and Sadie living, and five deceased. During the war he was not able to go into the army, but furnished a substitute. OGLEVIE, D. B.-Farmer, section 35, P. O. Oakwood Station. Was born in Vermillion county, Indiana, October 3, 1830, and removed with his parents to Vermillion county, Illinois, where they lived for a few years and then came to Iowa in 1843, locating in Keokuk county. He lived there until 1846 and then came to this county and located in Rising Sun. Here he has been raised and educated. In 1855 he came upon his present farm, consisting of 123 acres. He and his brother are the oldest settlers 950 BIOGRAPHICAL. now living in the township. Mr. O. has been twice married. First, in 1844, to Miss Sarah A. Wheeler, who died in February, 1858, leaving five children: H. F. and Amelia (wife of Henry Foust), living, and three deceased. Was married again in January, 1860, to Miss Rebecca J. Pack, a native of Indiana. They have eight children: Kerlin, Genevia, Georgia and Cora, living, and four deceased. PITSTICK, JOHN-Farmer, section 20, P. O. Altoona. Was born in Kuelin, Prussia, on the Rhine, January 18, 1836, and in 1843 he emigrated with his parents to the United States, locating in La Salle county, Illinois. He was raised and educated there, and was engaged in farming, which he has since followed. In 1863 he came to this State and located where he now lives, and what he now has is the result of hard, honest toil and strict attention to business. Owns 160 acres of land. Was married March 5, 1858, to Miss Frances Billingsfelt, a native of Prussia. They have nine children: Charles, Louisa, Frances, William, Lizzie, Amy, Ella, Johnnie and Eddie, all living. Mr. P. is agent for the celebrated Tower's Pulverizers and Cultivators, made in Mendota, Illinois. PLUMMER, J. E.--Farmer and stock-raiser, section 32, P. O. Rising Sun. Was born November 12, 1832, in Highland county, Ohio, and when very young was taken by his parents to Allen county, Ohio, where he grew to manhood on a farm and was educated in the common schools. Became to Iowa in 1852 and located in Camp township, this county, remaining there until 1860, when he went to Colorado; he lived there about six years and in 1866 came back to this county and located where he now lives, owning a farm of 185 acres, well improved and cultivated. He has been a member of the Board of Supervisors of the county. April 15, 1863, he was married to Miss Lovena S. Garrett, a native of Ohio. They have six children: John W., Vincent V., Esther L., Denver N. and Effie D., living, and one, the oldest, Emma A., died in Georgetown, Colorado. POST, JAMES-Farmer, section 20, P. O. Atloona. Was born in Otsego county, New York, April 3, 1816, and was raised on a farm. When young he learned the stone and brick maker's trade and followed that in connection most of his life. He also worked for a number of years at the carpenter's trade. In 1853 he removed to Medina county, Ohio, and in 1866 came to this State, locating where he now lives. Owns a farm of eighty acres. Mr. Post has been twice married. First, in 1846, to Miss Nancy Phelps, who died in 1854, leaving two children: Walter and Mary, both living. Was married again in 1856 to Miss Sarah Preston. POST, A. M.-Farmer, section 18, P. O. Altoona. Was born in Otsego county, New York, May 12, 1824, and was there raised. He enjoyed the advantages of a common school education, and has followed farming the most of his life. In 1854 he removed to Medina county, Ohio, and resided there six years, following the business of milling in a steam flouring mill. In 1860 he went to Ogle county, Illinois, and engaged in farming, which he followed for three years, and in 1864 he came to this State and located where he now resides, and has since remained here. Owns a farm of eighty acres. Was married September 15, 1847, to Miss Jane Jennings, a native of New York State. They have two children: William and Marian (wife of Thomas Sutton), both living. SCHOLEY, J. W.-Shoemaker, Altoona. Was born February 10, 1821, in Burlington, New Jersey, where he remained until he reached his majority. In 1842 he went to Norfolk, Virginia, and engaged CLAY TOWNSHIP. 951 in working at his trade, having learned the same from the ages of fifteen to twenty-one years. In the spring of 1843 he went to Lexington, Kentucky, and remained until the fall of that year and then moved to Dayton, Ohio, continuing in business there until 1849; at that time he went to Terre Haute, Indiana, and opened a boot and shoe store, running a shop in connection with it. He made that place his home until 1855, when he came to Iowa and located near Saylorville, this county, engaging there in farming. The following year he moved into Saylorville, opened a shop, and in 1876 came to Altoona and there opened a shop which he still carries on. He was married May 20, 1846, to Miss Margaret Sayre, a native of Ohio. She died July 10, 1879, leaving a family of eight children: John, Eliza (wife of Frank Dorr, of this county), Ella (wife of Benj. Cchubbuck, of this county), Edith, Lizzie, Jennie and Clara, living, and one deceased. SHAFFER, L. O.--Druggist, Altoona. Was born in Henry county, Indiana, March 2, 1862, and in 1875 came with his parents to Iowa, locating in this county on section 23 of this township, where his mother still resides, his father having died in the spring of 1879. He was educated in the common schools, supplemented by a course in the Des Moines University, of Des .Moines. In March, 1878, he came into the drug store to learn the business and is now associated with Dr. Booth, under the firm name of Shaffer & Booth. They carry a large and well assorted stock of drugs, and by their strict attention to business have built up a good trade. SHIVERS, SAMUEL-Farmer, section 35, P. O. Oakwood Station. Was born in Columbiana county, Ohio, August 11, 1820, and there was raised on a farm, receiving a common school education. When twenty years of age he learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed until 1856, then came to Iowa, locating in Linn county and engaged in farming and also in working at his trade at odd times. He resided there for nine years and then came to this county, locating where he now lives in 1865. Owns a farm of 150 acres. Just after arriving here he was drafted into the army, and although over age he could not prove it by records, and was forced to go or furnish a substitute. He chose the latter, at an expense of $800, as it was impossible for him to leave his family. This took most of his available means, and although it was a great set back to him, he has gained for himself and family a fine home. He was married July 7,1850, to Miss Mary A. Patterson, a native of Ohio. They have a family of seven children living: Martha J. (wife of William Porter), Thomas, Lizzie (wife of Thomas Aultman), William, Mary A. (wife of Samuel Harvey), Emma and Ella. Have lost two. TOMPKINS, W. H.-Dealer in hardware and agricultural implements, Altoona. Was born October 17, 1840, in Virginia, and was raised on a farm. In 1866 be moved to Kentucky and engaged in the mercantile business at Canton, remaining there about two and a half years. He then sold his stock and in the fall of 1868 came to this State, locating in Des Moines. He remained there a short time and then bought a farm of 120 acres on section 16 of this township, which he still owns, and on which he lived until the fall of 1878, when he came to Altoona. He then engaged in his present business. On the 21st of April, 1861, he enlisted in the second Virginia artillery of the Confederate army, and served until the surrender of Lee's army at Appomattox Court House. He was in all the battles in which the army of Northern Virginia was engaged. He was wounded three times, once at Knoxville, Tennessee, and twice at Gettysburg. On 952 BIOGRAPHICAL. account of meritorious conduct at the second day's fight at Richmond, he was promoted to adjutant of the first battalion of his regiment and held that position to the close of the war. He was married September 10, 1868, to Miss Lucy Herndon, a native of Kentucky. They have no children. VERSAW, LEVI-Farmer, section 17, P. O. Altoona. Was born in Canada, June 15, 1834, and there he lived until fifteen years of age. His father having died he left his mother in that country and emigrated to the United States to seek a home among strangers. His first location was at Buffalo, New York, where he went to learn the machinist's trade with one Mr. Hemmingway, with whom he remained about three years. He was then engaged as engineer on the lakes and followed that for three years, when he took a trip to Pike's Peak in 1859. In the spring of 1860 he returned, landing in Des Moines with one dollar in his pocket. Here he went to work at his trade, which he followed until the 25th of July, 1862, when he enlisted in company C, Twenty-second Iowa infantry. He served until the close of the war and was discharged June 1, 1865, at Washington, D. C. He then returned to this State and settled in Vandalia, Jasper county, where he resumed his old business. In the fall of 1874 he bought and came upon his present farm, consisting of 160 acres. Was married July 18, 1861, to Miss Anna M. Rawson, a native of Indiana. They have five children living: Arabella, Eddie, Fred., Alvie and Claude. One infant is deceased. WATTER, GEORGE--Farmer, section 31, P. O. Altoona. Was born in Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, December 21,1822. In 1858 he came to Iowa, locating near Vandalia, Jasper county, and resided there for about seven years, and then returned to Pennsylvania, and came here again in the spring of 1867 and located near Prairie City. After a residence there of one year he came to this county, and located where he now lives. He owns a farm of eighty acres. December 22,1842, he was married to Miss Sarah Hunnel, a native of Pennsylvania. They have a family of eight children: Isaac, John, David G., Mary E. (wife of Walter Hick), and George R., living, and three deceased: Robert enlisted in company E, Fourteenth Iowa, and was killed at Pleasant Hill, Louisiana, April 5, 1864. Isaac was also in the same regiment and served to the close of the war. WOODROW, I. H.-Retired farmer and justice of the peace, Altoona. Was born in Philadelphia county, Pennsylvania, September 25, 1816, and at the age of fifteen years came with his parents to Hamilton county, Ohio, where he was raised on a farm and educated in the common schools and Clermont Academy, Pennsylvania. In the spring of 1854 he came to Iowa and located near Des Moines, and in 1856 came to this township, locating on section 7, and bought a fine farm of 120 acres, which he improved, living on the same until 1877. He then disposed of it and moved to Altoona. In building his house in this township the lumber he used was brought from Saylor bottom in an old canoe that had been made by the Indians. He filled it with lumber and then hitching four yoke of oxen to it, ran it over the snow to his farm. Mr. W. has held various township offices and was special United States Marshal for about six years and bailiff of Circuit and District Courts at Des Moines for about ten years. Although he has passed his three-score years he is full of energy and ever ready for the active and busy scenes of life. He was married February 22, 1828, to CLAY TOWNSHIP 953 Miss Sarah E. Robinson, a native of Ohio. They have thirteen children: Ambrose D., Charles, John R., Mary A. (wife of Theo. Hartley, of Warren county, Iowa), Anna M. (wife of John W. East, of Audubon county), Thomas, Kate (wife of Win, F. Davidson, of Eddyville, Iowa), Isaac H., Emma (wife of Fred. Fermel, of Dakota), and Wm. W., living, and three deceased. WOODROW, B. E. H.-Farmer, section 7, Altoona. Was born August 25, 1825, in Philadelphia county, Pennsylvania, and was raised in Hendricks county, Indiana, and has always followed agricultural pursuits. He came to Polk county at an early date in the history of Iowa, and being possessed of the indomitable will and energy characteristic of the pioneers, he settled in Beaver township in the year 1854, and owns a farm of forty acres of land. Was married in the year 1848, to Miss Eliza Robison, of Indiana. She died in 1856, leaving four children, living: Isaac S., Joseph T., William W. and Benjamin F., and one deceased. He was married again in 1867, to Mrs. Rosetta, widow of the late David Butterfield, of Michigan. By this union they have three children: Ella May, Henrietta, and Edward A. YANT, ANTHONY-Farmer, section 13, P. O. Altoona. Was born in Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, November 28, 1807, and resided there until six years of age, when with his parents he removed to Clark county, Ohio. There he was raised a farmer and formed the habits of industry and integrity which have followed him through life. He came to this State in November, 1853, and settled at Muscatine, and on the 2d of January, 1854, made the entry which now constitutes his present homestead of 320 acres. Has held the office of justice of the peace and township supervisor. He was married in Ohio, in 1831, to Miss Annie Snively, of that State. They have eight children, living : Levi, David, Martha (twins), Joseph and an infant (twins), Franklin, A ram and Ruth A. Lost three. His ancestors were of Pennsylvania on his father's side. His grandfather and two brothers were in the Revolutionary War. YANT, DANIEL-Farmer and stock-raiser, section 12, P. O. Altoona. Is a native of Stark county, Ohio, born March 29, 1827, and was raised in that State and county until.1855. At that time lie came to this county and settled where he now resides. His home farm consists of 420 acres, improved and cultivated He has held the office of township supervisor. His marriage was in his native county in January, 1853, to Miss Neoma Hudson, of the same place. They have six children living: Isaiah, Amanda, Harvey, Philip, Finley and Ella. YANT, LEVI-Farmer and stock-raiser, section 7, P. O. Altoona. Was, born in Stark county, Ohio, February 17, 1833, and followed farming as an occupation until November, 1853. He then accompanied his parents to this State and settled in Muscatine, and in December, with his father, Anthony Yant, came to this county. He is the owner of 165 acres of improved land. Has been twice married. First, in Muscatine county, Iowa, December 2,. 1856, to Miss Nancy B. Randleman, of Illinois. She died in 1874, leaving five children: Scott S., William H., Rosa, Georgia and Nancy E. His; second marriage was in Wisconsin, in 1875, to Hannah Sutherland, of New York State. YANT, ISAIAH-Lumber dealer, Altoona. Was born in Stark county, Ohio, June 29,1854, and in the spring of 1855 he came with his parents to 954 BIOGRAPHICAL. this county, locating on section 12, of this township. Here he has been raised and educated. He followed farming all his life until the fall of 1879, when he bought the lumber yard of M. Madigan, which he has since continued to keep. He is at present clerk of Clay township. Was married September 2,1878, to Miss S. E. McPherson, daughter of M. C. McPherson, of Iowa Center, Story county. She was born in that place. They have one child, Rettie May.