bio_mn
Muscatine
County and Vicinity
Biographical
Sketches
Surnames
M-N
MAGOON,
George D., contractor and builder; residence
Fifth street. Mr. Magoon was born in Ware, Mass., in 1825; in 1827,
his parents removed to Ohio; thence to Warsaw, Ill., in 1837,where they
remained until 1840, in which year they came to Muscatine Co. George D.'s
early life was spent in receiving an education and in learning the carpenter's
trade. In September, 1861, he married Miss Joanna, daughter of Col. G.
W. Kincaid and Louisa Kincaid, nee Steinbergen. On the 11th of September,
1861, he enlisted in Co. H, 11th Regt. I.V.I., was commissioned First Lieutenant,
served three years; was honorably discharged; his command was in the battles
of Shiloh, Corinth, Vicksburg, Atlanta campaign, battle of Atlanta, July
22, 1864. Mr. Magoon and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. They
have one child---Edward. Mr. Magoon acts with the Republican party; he
is a member of the Masonic and I. O. O. F. fraternities.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa, Containing A History of the
County, its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879
MAHAN,
George Jr.
A most tangible evidence
of the superior skill of George Mahan, Jr., as an architect is found in
his own beautiful home, erected in the late summer of 1922 at the corner
of Autumn avenue and McLean boulevard in Memphis. For a number of
years he has practiced his profession with ability and marked success in
this city, as senior partner in the firm of Mahan & Broadwell, with
offices in the American Savings Bank building.
Mr. Mahan is a native
son of the city, born April 6, 1887, his parents
being George and Jessie (Steel) Mahan. The father was born in Muscatine,
Iowa, but was brought to Memphis by his parents when a boy
and for forty years has been successfully engaged in the merchandise brokerage
business in this city, previous to which time he was connected with the
wholesale and retail grocery trade for several years. His wife was born
in Louisville, Kentucky. She passed away in October. 1919. In their
family were five children. four sons and a daughter, namely: James S.,
George, Jr., Frank, Angus C. and Jessie S., all in Memphis.
George Mahan, Jr., has
spent his life in this city, pursuing his education in the public schools
but putting aside his textbooks in the eleventh grade, when he was sixteen
years of age, desirous to make his initial step in the business world.
He at once entered the office of Shaw & Pheil, architects, and
while in the employ of that firm he also pursued a correspondence course
in architecture. In 1907 he became associated with N. M. Wood, formerly
a prominent architect of Memphis, and while in that connection aided
in drawing the plans for the Exchange building of the city, the largest
and best office building in Memphis. J. J. Broadwell, Mr. Mahan's present
partner, was also associated with Messrs. Wood and Mahan in the drawing
of these plans. In 1910 the present firm was organized and since that
time has become one of the most active and strongest firms of the city.
In fact, they rank with the leading architects of the state and of
the south and something of their highly developed skill is indicated in
the fact that they made the designs for the American Savings Bank building,
also practically all of the schools of Shelby county that have been built
within the past six years–about fifteen in number–and many other
attractive modern structures. They have also erected many prominent
structures outside of Shelby county, not only in Tennessee but also in
northern Mississippi and Arkansas, making a specialty of schools and churches.
This firm drew the plans for the additions to the West Tennessee
Normal School and for a large number of the fine residences erected in
Memphis in recent years, including the beautiful home of Mr. Mahan recently
completed. Through the connection as architects for the Cotton Exchange
building they have come into the contract for the New Cotton Exchange building
at Union and Front streets, the finest office building in the south. In
addition to his professional interests and activities Mr. Mahan is also
the president of the Spencer
Company, one of the leading
undertaking firms of his city.
On the 25th of November,
1909, Mr. Mahan was married to Miss Emily Smith of Jackson, Tennessee,
who was born, however, in Gibson county, this state. They have become parents
of two daughters, Elizabeth Ann and Emily Smith, both in school. Mr. Mahan
belongs to the Chamber of Commerce and to the Kiwanis Club and is interested
in all forces and organized efforts that make for the progress and improvement
of the city and its upbuilding along all lines of material, intellectual
and moral advancement. He belongs to the Benevolent Protective Order
of Elks and to the Second Presbyterian church and finds his recreation
largely in fishing and hunting. His professional duties, however, claim
the major part of his time and effort and step by step he has advanced
from the outset of his career until he is today an outstanding figure among
the architects of the state.
Source:
Tennessee the Volunteer State 1769—1923: Volume 4 page 549
MAHER,
Peter, architect and builder, corner
Pine and Third streets; is a native of Queens Co., Ireland, and was born
March 16, 1836; when 14 years of age, he came to this country; he lived
in Trenton, N. J., where he learned the trade of carpenter and builder;
in April, 1857, he came to Iowa; was in Cedar Rapids a short time; in November,
1857, he came to Muscatine, and since then has lived here. He has been
engaged in contracting and building for many years, and has erected some
of the best buildings in the city. He married Miss Louisa S. Heaton, a
native of Indiana, May 1, 1861; they have eight children, five sons
and three daughters.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa, Containing A History of the
County, its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879 City of Muscatine
MAHIN,
Frank W., attorney at law; is a native of the city of Muscatine,
and was born Nov. 6, 1851; he was brought up here, and entered the printing
office of his brother, Hon. John Mahin, and learned the printing business;
then entered the Iowa Wesleyan University, at Mt. Pleasant, and remained
there two years; after being in the post office, at Muscatine, for three
years, he studied law; he entered the Harvard Law School, and
remained there one year, and afterward entered the Columbia School; remained
there two years, and graduated from that institution in 1878; since then,
he has practiced his profession here. He is connected with the Library
and other societies here.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa, Containing A History of the
County, its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879 City of Muscatine
MAHIN,
Hon. John, was born in Noblesville,
Ind., on the 8th of December, 1833, and is the son of Jacob and Elizabeth
Mahin. John was placed in a printing office at an early age. From
his earliest childhood, he was possessed by a strong desire to learn the
art of printing. Moving to Bloomington now Muscatine, Iowa, in 1847, he
found an opening in the Herald office since, changed to the Journal,
where, for five years, he was a diligent and industrious journeyman, pursuing
the study of books and man as circumstances permitted. In his 19th
year (July, 1852), he commenced publishing and editing the Muscatine Journal
on his own account; this he continued for two years, with very satisfactory
pecuniary results, having succeeded where others failed, when he
sold his interest, intending to pursue a classical course of study, with
which end in view he entered the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware,
in that State, but was obliged to abandon this cherished scheme after a
few months, on account of a serious attack of illness, which, for a time,
threatened his life. In 1856, he re-purchased his interest in the Muscatine
Journal, and resumed editorial control of the paper, which he has
since retained; in April, 1861, he was appointed Postmaster of Muscatine
by President Lincoln, and retained the position for eight years; in October,
1869, he was elected to the House of Representatives of Iowa for a period
of two years, and served with distinction; in June, 1873, he was re-appointed
Postmaster, and held that office until 1878. During the war, he was one
of the most vigorous defenders of the Administration; he threw his whole
power into the Union cause, and was instrumental in raising a large number
of volunteers; he was Secretary and actual manager of the Soldiers' Monument
Association of Muscatine Co., which erected the beautiful shaft to the
memory of the heroes who fell in the cause of Union and freedom upon Southern
battle-fields, and which now ornaments the court House Square of Muscatine;
he was also active and mainly instrumental in organizing the Muscatine
Building and Loan Association, of which he continues to be a Director,
an organization which is accomplishing untold good in providing homes
for the mechanics and laboring men of the city; he is also President of
the Iowa Press Association, an organization which has existed for several
years; he has also been a member and promoter of the several temperance
organizations of the city and county, and is among the foremost in every
good work, whether charitable, benevolent or reformatory, undertaken in
his neighborhood; he has been a Methodist since his 18th year; one
of the most active and prominent members of the Church. Politically,
he was raised in the communion of the old Whig party, and since the organization
of the Republican party, he has been one of its most devoted adherents.
Mr. Mahin has been twice married; first, on the 17th of May, 1859, at Muscatine,
to Miss Anna Herr, who died on the 12th of March, 1862, childless; second,
on the 20th of September, 1864, to Miss Anna Lee, of Johnson Co., Iowa,
who still lives, and is the mother of four children, the eldest of whom---Ella
Cassel, died in 1870; and three survive---J. Lee, Mabel and Florence.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa, Containing A History of the
County, its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879 City of Muscatine
MANNING,
John W., farmer, section 6, P. O. Red Oak; born in Indiana, 1849.
His parents moved to Muscatine County, Iowa, in the fall of 1855, where
they remained until Febraury, 1865. when his father moved his family to
Linn County; John's mother having died in 1864. He remained in Linn County
until March, 1871, and returned to Muscatine County, there he remained
a little over one year. In May, 1872, he came to Red Oak, broke prairie
that summer, and during the winter of 1872-3 worked for Mr. Otto; and the
following summer for Mr. Mason, in the same neighborhood. In July, 1873,
he moved to Nebraska, remained one year and returned to Montgomery County;
lived on Mr. Otto's farm about three years, then lived in Boone County,
Iowa, one year. In 1878 he returned to Montgomery County, and soon settled
where he now resides. He was married, July 1873, to Miss Mary F. Otto,
a native of Iowa. They are members of the Baptist Church.
Source:
History of Montgomery County, Iowa Des Moines: Iowa Hist. and Biographical
Co., 1881.
MANSFIELD,
L. S., farmer, Sec. 2; P. O. Durant; was born in Litchfield Co.,
Conn., May 8, 1810; at the age of 25, he moved to Medina Co., Ohio, where
he purchased a heavily-timbered farm with a clearing of two acres, on which
was a log cabin. In June, 1836, he returned to his native county and married
Susan Carter, who was born in Hartford Co., Conn., in August, 1813; they
continued to reside upon the farm in Medina Co. until 1865, when they came
to Muscatine Co., where he now resides, and owns 160 acres of land, valued
at $50 per acre. Mrs. Mansfield died in 1872, leaving four children, but
one now living--Nancy, born June 19, 1849; became the wife of Jasper Blackston,
of this county, and died Oct. 13, 1872; William C. was born June 19, 1840;
enlisted in 2d Ohio V. C. in 1861, and was killed while foraging from Lamar,
Mo., May 7, 1862; John R. was born Feb. 28, 1841. He, also, participated
in the late war, is now at home;
Harriet, born Sept. 1, 1845, died Sept. 1, 1846. Mr. and Mrs. M. were both
members of long standing in the Congregational Church, he having been Deacon
in that Church for forty years; Republican.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa, Containing A History of the
County, its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879 Wilton Twp
MARKHAM,
H.H., farmer, Sec. 15; P. O. Atalissa; owns 153 acres of land, valued
at $45 per acre; born Feb. 6, 1822; in Lewis Co., N. Y. Married Miss Susan
H. Dumont, of Oneida Co., Dec. 22, 1844; she was born in same county Aug.
3, 1825; after his marriage lived in Oneida Co. six years, following lumbering,
then returned to Lewis Co., and, in the spring of 1866, came to this county,
and located on his present farm; have five children--Jane A., born Feb.
26, 1848; Amos E., born April 4, 1850; George H., born June 27, 1854; Hellen
C., born July 4, 1858; Orin E., born July 11, 1861; and one adopted daughter,
Lillie E., born in March, 1871; lost two--Charles W. and Hellen M. Republican.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa, Containing A History of the
County, its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879
MARSHALL,
J.
E. right-of-way commissioner for the St. L. Ft. S. & W. R. R.,
is a native of Virginia, and was born in Fairfield County, January 31,
1847. At an early age he removed to Muscatine,
Iowa, where he was educated and reared. In 1862 he enlisted
in the Thirty-fifth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, serving nearly three years
in the capacity of First Deputy Sergeant. He was in the Department of the
Tennessee on the Red River expedition, and participated in many prominent
events of the war, locating in Alabama when the troubles were over, and
was there identified as a cotton planter for several years. In May, 1878,
he came to Kansas, and for a time was material agent for the A., T. &
S. F. R. R., and later for the A. & P. For the past two years he has
been connected with the St. L., Ft. S. & W. R. R., with headquarters
at El Dorado. He was married in Montgomery County, Ala., to
Miss M. E. Caffey, of that city. They have four children - James E., William
H., Maggie M., and Jennie P. Mr. Marshall is a K. T. Mason. He was elected
Councilman in El Dorado in 1881 and 1882.
Source:
William G. Cutler's History of the State of Kansas, Butler Co
MARTIN,
H.F., proprietor of restaurant and confectionery, west side
of Second st., near the bridge. Mr. M. was born in Lockport, N. Y., in
1852; when 9 years of age, removed with parents to McGregor, Iowa; at the
age of 15; he went to Cleveland, Ohio, and served an apprenticeship of
three years in the confectionery business at the end of which time, he
returned West. He married Miss Agnes Stoughten of Wapello, Louisa Co.,
Iowa; they have one child---Mabel C. Members of the Episcopal Church;
Mr. M. is a Democrat.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa, Containing A History of the
County, its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879 City of Muscatine
MARTIN,
Henry, cooper, East Ninth st.; was born in Hanover, Germany,
May 21, 1832; he was brought up there, and learned the cooper's trade;
he emigrated to America in 1854; he came to Iowa and settled in Muscatine
in September, 1855; he commenced working at his trade, and has continued
every since for twenty-four years, and longer than any cooper here. He
married Miss Amelia Hillis, from Hanover, Germany, Sept. 6, 1859; they
have seven children--Charlotte, Fred, Henry, Caroline, John, Theodore and
William.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa, Containing A History of the
County, its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879 City of Muscatine
MARTIN,
James K.- was born in Clermont Co., Ohio, May 25, 1839; when 14
years of age, he went on the river and served as engineer on the Mississippi
River most of the time for fifteen years; he came to Muscatine in 1856,
and was engineer for Chambers Bros. for eight years; he afterward engaged
in the milling business, and has continued it since then. He is connected
with several different orders, and has held offices in them. He married
Miss Maria Hern, of this city, in December, 1863; they have three children--Harry
B. Mary P. and Lydia V.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa, Containing A History of the
County, its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879 City of Muscatine
MAXSON,
Jout, Postmaster, West Liberty; born in Harrison Co., Ohio,
in 1833; came to Iowa in 1838, and located in Cedar Co. Mr. Maxson settled
in West Liberty in 1864. Married Lorencie Haven in 1871; she was born in
Vermont; have four children---Dora, Willie, Hal, and Barrel. Republican.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa, Containing A History of the
County, its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879
MAXWELL,
T. J., farmer, Sec. 30; P.O. Port Allen; owns 505 acres of land,
valued at $35 per acre; born Jan. 5, 1828, in Morgan Co., Ind.; in the
fall of 1842, emigrated to Louisa Co., Iowa, and in the spring of 1865
to his present farm, in Muscatine Co. Married Melinda Wilson Sept.
6, 1849; she was born March 19, 1830, in Indiana, and died Feb.14, 1858.
He again married, Miss Mary Boggs, Sept 5, 1859; she was born April 15,
1838, in Coshocton Co., Ohio. His children by his first wife are
Margaret J. and Absalom H.; lost three--William M., Melinda, and an infant;
by his second wife, Thomas, Robert, Harry, Cora and Willie; lost two--Ida
and an infant. Has served his township as Trustee, School Director,
etc. Democrat.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa, Containing A History of the
County, its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879 page 644, Orono Twp.
MAYLONE,
John W, far., Sec. 26 ; P. O. Muscatine; owns 176 1/2 acres of land,
valued at $45 per acre; son of Abraham and Nancy Maylone; born Aug. 28,
1826, in Columbiana Co., Ohio; in the spring of 1852, went, by overland
route, with ox-team, to California; followed mining and brick-making; returned
in 1856; came to this county the same year and located on the farm upon
which he is still living. Married Mary Frybarger Aug. 28, 1856; she was
born in 1836, in Ohio, an died June 7, 1862; he again married Ruth Gifford,
April 4, 1867; she was born in Ohio, May 8, 1838; has two children by first
wife--- George and Edwin; by second wife, two--- Ella and Eugene; lost
three--- Estella, Willard, and Wilford. Mr. M. has served as Assessor of
his township five years, and Trustee two years. His father was born Sept.
12, 1797, on the north bank of the Ohio River, and is still in good health,
and living with his son, one thing being remarkable, that he has
never used glasses and can read any print as well as any one. Member M.
E. Church; Democrat.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa, Containing A History of the
County, its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879
MAYLONE, JOHN W. , a farmer
residing on section 26, Moscow Township, is an early settler of Muscatine
County, dating his residence back to 1856. He was born in Columbiana County,
Ohio, Aug. 28, 1826, and is descended from Irish and German ancestors,
his grandfathers both being born of Irish parentage, while his paternal
and maternal grandmothers were of German origin. His parents were Abraham
and Nancy ( Workman ) Maylone. His father was born in Jefferson County,
Ohio, Sept. 12, 1797, and was a son of Daniel Maylone, who was born in
Ireland, but who emigrated to America, locating in New York, whence he
afterward removed to Ohio. Mrs. Maylone was born Nov.3, 1799, and was a
daughter of John Workman, who was of Irish descent.
The father of our subject was but two years of age
when he removed with his parents to Columbiana County, Ohio, where he was
reared to manhood, united in marriage, and lived for more than seventy
years. By his union twelve children were born, ten of whom lived to maturity:
Julia Ann, who became the wife of Jonathan Hockenberry, died in Sciota
County, Ohio, leaving a large family of children; Eliza J., married William
Douglas, by whom she had several children, and died in Columbiana County,
Ohio; William H., is a resident of Muscatine County; Louisa C., is the
wife of William Hollar, a resident of Alleghany City, Pa., and to them
have been born five children; John W., is the next in order of birth; Nancy
R. wedded John Davidson, a resident of Columbiana County, Ohio, and has
five children; George W. went to California in 1852, where he was married,
but has not been heard of for many years, and is supposed to be dead; Mary
K. wedded George Meetter , of Muscatine County; Phoebe H. is the wife of
William Etherton, of Ft. Scott, Kan; Melvina J. married John Hale, but
lived only a short time after their marriage; Marcus W. and Albert G. both
died in childhood. The children of this family were all born in Columbiana
County, Ohio.
Our subject was reared to manhood upon his father's
farm, and received his education in the public and subscription schools
of his native county. At the age of nineteen he began learning the trade
of brickmaking, which he followed for several years. In the spring of 1851
he crossed the Father of Waters into Iowa and remained until the following
January, when he returned to his native State, and with a party consisting
of fifty-two men started overland to California to visit the gold mines
that had been discovered. The company took with them five ox-teams and
crossed the Missouri at St. Joseph on the 6th of May, 1852, reaching the
mining town of Volcano, in Eldorado County, Cal., August 23. For four years
our subject remained on the Pacific Slope, operating a brick yard in Sacramento
during the summer season, while the winter months, or rather the rainy
season, were spent in the mountains, engaged in mining. In his business
enterprises he was quite successful and returned to his Ohio home in June,
1856, but remained there only until the 22d of July following, when he
again came to Muscatine, where, without interruption, he has since continued
to reside.
On the 28th of August, 1856, our subject led to the
altar Miss Mary C. Fryberger, a daughter of William B. Fryberger, with
whom the young couple lived for some time after their marriage. By their
union two children were born: George C., who is now living in Perkins County,
Neb., and Edwin C., who makes his home in Merriam, Johnson County, Kan.
In 1863 the death of the mother occurred, she dying June 7. Our subject
was again married, April 4, 1867. becoming the husband of Miss Ruth E.
Gifford, a daughter of Burton Gifford, one of the early settlers of Cedar
County, Iowa, who is still living, in the eighty-second year of his age.
Her mother Rebecca ( Worrall ) Gifford, died several years ago. Five children
graced the union of Mr. Maylone and Miss Gifford, but only two are now
living, Ella May and Eugene, who are both at home. Stella died when four
years of age, and two little sons, twins, Willard and Wilfred, died in
infancy.
In 1856 our subject purchased his present farm, but
did not begin its improvement and cultivation until several years later,
taking up his residence thereon in 1865. The many improvements of their
beautiful home are the result of their own industry and good management,
for many years of patient labor have been bestowed upon it. In his political
sentiments our subject has been a life-long Democrat, and since 1832, when
he hurrahed for Gen. Jackson, has supported the principles of that organization.
His wife is a strong advocate of the principles of the Prohibition party
as taught by its eminent leaders. The parents, together with their daughter,
Ellen M., are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and are numbered
among the highly respected citizens of Muscatine County.
Source: Portrait and Biographical Album, Muscatine
County, Iowa, 1889, page 516
Contributed by June
Brewer Welsch
McCAMPBELL,
R. H., County Auditor; was born in Shelby
Co., Ky., March 18, 1828; he was brought up in Indiana, where he married
Miss Elvina Allen, in June, 1853; she is a native of Shelby Co., Ky., but
was brought up in Indiana; they came to Iowa in 1856 and settled in Muscatine
Co.; he engaged in farming until the breaking-out of the rebellion, when
he enlisted in the 35th Regiment Iowa Inf., Co. B; he remained in the service
over two years, and was discharged, on account of physical disability.
He was elected County Superintendent of Schools, and held the office for
three years; was elected Auditor of Muscatine Co. in the fall of 1868,
and has been re-elected every two years since, and has held the office
for ten years, and has discharged the duties of the office faithfully and
well. Mr. and Mrs. McCampbell have four children----Charles, William, Ella
and John.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa, Containing A History of the
County, its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879 City of Muscatine
McCLINTOCK,
David who resides on section twenty-six, township twenty-four,
range seven, in Antelope county, Nebraska, is one of the oldest settlers
in the valley, and has done his full share in the betterment of conditions
throughout the community in which he lives, On every hand he is named as
a successful farmer and good citizen. A view of the family residence is
presented on another page.
Mr. McClintock was born
January 7, 1844, in Somerset county, Pennsylvania. His father, Robert McClintock,
was born July 8, 1809, in Pennsylvania, and died May 20, 1884. His mother
was Evelyn McNair before her marriage to our subject's father, and was
born in Pennsylvania; her father came from Pennsylvania, but their ancestors
came from Ireland. Great Grandfather McClintock served in the revolutionary
war and participated in the battle of Bunker Hill. On July 4, 1871, Mr.
McClintock was united in marriage to Miss Minirva Handby, and
they are the parents of six children, whose names are as follows: John
Ashley, Josia Robert, Merva, who was born 1876, died in 1877; David, married
to Ida Troxell; August and Susie.
David McClintock moved
from Pennsylvania to West Liberty, Iowa, in 1864, returning a short
time later to Pennsylvania: and then back to West Liberty, Iowa, where
he remained one year. He then worked as a carpenter in Polk and Warren
counties, Iowa, being married at Norwalk, Warren county, Iowa, in 1871.
In 1872, Mr. McClintock with his family came to Nebraska, settling
in Antelope county. They drove from Somerset, Warren county, Iowa, where
our subject had lived for four years. They drove the finest team
of horses that had come to Antelope county up to that time.
After arriving here, Mr.
McClintock took up a homestead claim in section twenty-six, township twenty-four,
range seven, where he built a dugout and lived for nine years. In 1881
he sold out and moved to California and from thence to Pennsylvania. He
then bought the northwest quarter of section twenty-six, township twenty-four,
range seven, from his brother and immediately returned to Nebraska
and settled where he now lives. Here the McClintock family experienced
as many if not more hardships and dangers than any of the. old settlers
who came to the western frontier, on account of their early coming
to this country. Their nearest market place was at Columbus, seventy miles
distant, and Yankton, eighty miles away which was a river town. They suffered
many losses and hardships through grasshopper raids, during the years of
1873-74 and 1875; during the blizzards of 1873 and 1888; hot winds that
destroyed all their crops; and they fought prairie fires many times to
save their home and possessions.
On October 15, 1878, in
the effort to save his home Mr. McClintock had a narrow escape and was
severely burned, losing all the hair off his head and face. The fire burned
right up to the house, but he with several neighbors put up a gallant
fight and by back-firing they saved the home. Mrs. McClintock was the first
white woman to settle in this section of Antelope county.
COMPENDIUM OF HISTORY,
REMINISCENCE AND BIOGRAPHY of Nebraska p463
McCLOUD,
D. G.; Sec. 14; P. O. Muscatine; born in Franklin Co., Ohio, Aug.
11, 1818; at the age of 18 moved, with his parents, to Warsaw, Ill.; came
to Muscatine in 1839; first to Muscatine, where he engaged at his trade
plastering until 1857; since that time has been engaged in farming; was
elected Sheriff of the county in 1853, which office he held four years;
was elected to the Legislature in 1872, and served two years. Married Miss
Phoebe Chattaway July 18, 1849; born in England Dec. 16, 1822; have eight
children--A. V., Cynthia M., Cara W., George D., Bion C., Anna G., Emma
E., Abby P. Mr. McCloud is a member of the I. O. O. F., and a member of
the M. E. Church. Mrs. McCloud is a member of the M. E. Church. Owns
260 acres of land. Republican.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa, Containing A History of the
County, its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois
McCOLM,
A.G. of the firm of J. McColm & Sons, dealers in foreign
and domestic dry goods and carpets, 182 and 184 Second street; is a native
of Ohio, and was born in 1848; when 14 years of age, he came, with his
parents, to Muscatine, and when 16 years of age, he entered his father's
store, and since then he has been connected with the business. He married
Miss Elloura Cowles, of Iowa, in 1869; they have three children---Anna
May, Elloura and Lillian.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa, Containing A History of the
County, its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879 City of Muscatine
McCOLM,
J.L. of the firm of J. McColm & Sons, dealers in foreign and
domestic dry goods and carpets, 182 and 184 Second street, Tremont Hall
Building; is a native of Indiana and was born in 1843; he was brought up
in Ohio; when the war broke out, he enlisted in Co. A, 30th Regiment Ohio
Inf., and was in a number of battles; he was in the service three years;
after his return, in 1864, he came to Iowa and located in Muscatine; since
then, he has been engaged in the mercantile business, and has built up
a large and extensive trade. He married Miss Sarah Pollock, a native of
this county; they have two children----Charlie and Eddie.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa, Containing A History of the
County, its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879 City of Muscatine
McCONNAHA,
John, farmer, Sec. 16; was born in Guernsey Co., Ohio, May
16, 1823. In 1846, married Miss Mary R. Hagan, a native of same county,
born in 1826; they removed to Muscatine Co. in 1856 and settled in Lake
Tp., where they resided until 1866, when they removed to their present
farm; they have seven children living--Elizabeth A. (now Mrs. P. Esmoil),
Rachel D. (now Mrs. C. Eichelberger), John S., Mary J., Newton, Grant,
Chester. Mr. McConnaha and wife are members of the M. E. Church; he is
a republican. Owns 246 acres of land.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa, Containing A History of the
County, its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879
McCURDY,
Alexander, Conesville, proprietor of hotel; son of Daniel and Jane
McCurdy; born June 21, 1823 in Coshocton Co., Ohio. Married Sarah
J. Jones May 7, 1846; she was born in the fall of 1825 in Harrison Co.,
Ohio; in the summer of 1866, came to Muscatine Co., Iowa, locating in Orono
Tp.; his wife died the 8th of June, 1867. Again married Miss Sarah
E. Norris Aug. 24, 1872; she was born Jan. 9, 1840, in Coshocton Co., Ohio;
in the fall of 1870, moved into Conesville, and the following spring, engaged
in the mercantile and grain business in company with his son, S.D.; was
also appointed Postmaster, to suceed Mr. B.S.Cone, the first incumbent
of the office; continued the business till 1873; was unsuccessful, and,
in addition to the losses of business, his residence, which had cost him
$2, ooo, was consumed. His children by his first marriage are Seth
D., Melissa, Lavina and Arizona; lost three--Winfield, Wilbert and an infant;
by second marriage two--Chester W. and Scott A. Mr. C. is at present
one of the Trustees of the township. Democrat
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879 page 643, Orono Twp.
McCURDY,
Daniel, farmer, Sec. 5; P.O. Conesville; owns 92 acres of land valued
at $35 per acre; born Feb. 19, 1845, in Coshocton Co., Ohio; came to this
county in the spring of 1868; in December, 1876, he engaged in mercantile
business, in Conesville, and the June following, his brother, Thomas W.
came in as a partner; Nov. 17, 1878, their store was burned with contents;
supposed to be the work of an incendiary; loss above insurance about $1,200;
he then returned to his farm. Married Minerva Hardman, Oct. 8, 1871;
she was born April 7, 1853, in Coshocton Co., Ohio; have three children
living--Albert, Eric and Lucius C; lost one, Lulu. Member of the
German Reformed Church. Democrat.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879 page 643, Orono Twp.
McCURDY,
Robert, farmer, Sec. 4; P.O. Conesville; owns 300 acres of land,
valued at $35 per acre; born March 19, 1821, in Coshocton Co, Ohio;
in the fall of 1868, he emigrated to this county, locating on his present
farm. Married Elizabeth Welling Nov. 3, 1842; she was born July 11,
1819 in Harrison Co., Ohio; have six children---Daniel, Rebecca J., Lewis
C., Thomas W., Minerva and Allen. Member of the German Reformed Church.
Democrat.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879 page
643, Orono Twp.
McCURDY,
Seth D., dealer in grain and agricultural implements, Conesville,
also Notary Public; son of Alexander and Sarah McCurdy; born September
17, in 1851, in Coshocton Co., Ohio; came with his parents to this county
in 1866; educated at West Bedford, Ohio; commenced teaching school when
16 years of age; taught three terms, after which he turned his attention
to other business; was a partner with his father while in business; during
the summer of 1874, made a tour of California and Colorado, and returned
the following winter; was in the grain business at Nichols' Station,
after which he engaged in his present business; having shipped from Conesville
from fifty to one hundred thousand bushels of grain since January, 1871.
Married Miss Ella Tipton, daughter of Thomas and Margaret J. Tipton, Sept.
25, 1876; she was born Dec. 27, 1856, in this county; have one daughter,
Lita. Democrat.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879 page
643-644, Orono Twp.
McDERMONT,
Alexander; farmer, Sec. 29: P. O. Muscatine; is a native of
the Emerald Isle and was born in County Antrim, North of Ireland, in 1844;
he emigrated to the United States with his parents, first settling in Berks
Co., Penn., in 1846; remained until 1858, then moved to Indiana, where
they died. Mr. McD. enlisted in 1862 in the 82d Ind. V. I., Co. F,
and served about two and a half years; was discharged after the battle
of Chickamauga to take charge of two of his brothers, who were wounded
in the same battle and died a short time afterward; his brothers, who were
wounded in the same battle and died a short time afterward; his father
was taken sick about the same time and died a few weeks later at his home
in Indiana, and he was called there to take care of him; he re-enlisted
Feb. 5 and served one more year. After the war was over, he came to Iowa
and located in Muscatine Co. on the fine farm he now owns and improved.
Mr. McD. married Miss Alice M. Corwin, daughter of H. Corwin of Muscatine
Co., in April 1872; they have four children---John H., Anna Grace, George
F. and Arthur. Members of the M. E. Church of the Island. Mr. McD.
has held several offices in the county. He has a fine farm of 120 acres,
where he resides. Is a stanch Republican.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879
McELRAVY,
J.W. editor of the Weekly Enterprise, West Liberty;
born in Harrison Co., Ohio, in 1836; came to Iowa in 1868, and located
in West Liberty. Married Arabella Lewis; she was born in Cedar Co.;
have three children--Edna, Gracie and Eleanor.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879
McGREER,
William
A. farmer, section 13, P. O. Red Oak; was born in Wayne County,
Indiana, January 15, 1827; when he was quite small his parents moved to
Union County, Indiana; he remained there until the year 1860, when he removed
to Muscatine County, Iowa, remaining there eleven years, engaging in the
manufacture of pumps for about four years; after that time followed farming
until the spring of 1872, when he removed to this county, locating
near Hawthorn, and in 1873 bought his present farm. He was married October
25, 1860, to Miss Mary M. Smith, a native of Ohio; was married in Terre
Haute, Indiana. They have seven children: Ella, Lizzie, Emma, Frank, Joseph,
Mary and John. His farm of 160 acres of good land, is all under cultivation;
is abundantly watered, has an orchard of three and one-half acres, together
with a good variety of small fruits; has a good house and other buildings.
Source:
History of Montgomery County, Iowa; 1881
McGREW,
John; far., Sec. 4; P. O. Muscatine; born in Montgomery Co.,Ohio,
in 1815; his parents, William and
Charlotte McGrew, were early settlers of Montgomery Co.; they removed to
Wayne Co. Ind., about 1820, which continued to be their home until their
death; they died of Cholera at the present home of their son John,
while on a visit to their children in Iowa, in 1851. Mr. McGrew left his
father's home in Indiana in 1835, and came to Muscatine Co.; he pre-empted
one fourth section in Louisa Co., bordering on Muscatine County,
where he lived ten years; he then sold and bought his present farm, whch
contains 137 acres. He married, in 1836, Lydia A Willetts, a native of
Mercer Co., Ill.; he had eight children, four still living---Araminta (now
Mrs. S. Vanetta), Almira (now Mrs. Henry Miller), Lydia A. (now Mrs. Jesse
Kerr). Mrs. McGrew died of Cholera at the same time his parents died; he
married, in 1853, Louisa Adams, of Iowa City; has one child by second marriage---Ida
(now Mrs. Harris Willetts).
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879 Pike Twp
McINTIRE,
R. A., proprietor McIntire House, Railroad st., Wilton; born in
Meadville, Penn., Feb. 24, 1820; remained with his father on his farm until
21 years of age; then learned the carpenter's trade. April 9, 1851, he
married Josephine F., daughter of James Cooper;
she was born in Cooperstown, Penn., May, 1831. He engaged in farming in
Pennsylvania, until 1856, when they came to Muscatine and settled in Wilton,
where he purchased several lots and being an expert at his trade erected
thereon several house; the spring following his arrival here, Mr. McIntire
was elected Justice of the Peace and there being considerable trouble in
financial matters at that time his official duties occupied the greater
part of his time until spring of 1860, when he was appointed Postmaster,
which office he retained, notwithstanding the change in political affairs,
until 1863, when he opened his hotel at his present site; they have five
children--three sons and two daughters. Members of the Presbyterian Church
in which he has been chosen Ruling Elder; has been member of Town
Council several times and Mayor three consecutive terms; is a member of
the Wilton Lodge, No. 167,
A., F. & A. M. Democrat.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois Wilton Twp
McNALL,
Webb
editor
and proprietor of the Gaylord Herald, was born in Randolph Cattaraugus
County,
N. Y., Oct. 11, 1848. He removed to Iowa in August, 1861, and from there
to Gaylord, Smith County, Sept. 11, 1871. He took a homestead one mile
northeast of Gaylord, and has since purchased enough land in the vicinity
to give him a full section. Since his residence in Smith County he has
served as Constable and Deputy Sheriff, and has not been afraid or
ashamed to work. As a consequence he is now a prosperous man.
In
March, 1868, he married Miss Annie E. Humberger, of Muscatine, Iowa, by
whom he has had two children, one of them now living. In 1876 he
was chosen doorkeeper of the House of Representatives, and was re-elected
in 1877. March 10, 1877, he was appointed on the Capitol police force at
a salary of $1,100. Mr. McNall was admitted to practice in the district
and inferior courts of Kansas in May, 1879. As a lawyer he has been very
successful. His friends claim that in several railroad cases he secured
for his clients $4,000 more than even they hoped to secure. Whether as
editor of the Herald, lawyer, insurance agent or farmer, Webb McNall always
displays unbounded energy.
Source:
William G. Cutler's History of the State of Kansas, Town of Gaylord, Smith
Co.
McNUTT,
Samuel, Sec. 26; P. O. Muscatine; was
born near Londonderry, Ireland, Nov. 21, 1825; is the son of Samuel and
Hannah nee Stuart. Samuel McNutt, Sr., emigrated to Philadelphia, Penn.,
when Samuel Jr., was a child, and settled in New Castle, Del., where he
died in 1836, leaving a widow and seven children; she died in Iowa, Dec.
24, 1874; working on the little farm in Delaware, Samuel passed his boyhood
and grew to manhood; completing his college education in 1848, he engaged
in teaching; was elected President of New Castle County Teachers' Association;
he studied law under Hon. D. M. Bates; was admitted to the bar in 1851;
came to Muscatine Co. in 1854; in 1856, was Principal of one of the public
schools of Muscatine City, and at the close of the term became editor of
the Muscatine Inquirer; in April, 1856, he became associateeditor of the
Dubuque Herald; in 1863, was elected Representative to the Tenth General
Assembly of the State; also elected to the eleventh and Twelfth Assemblies;
in 1869, was elected Senator to the Sixteenth District. Senator McNutt
served ten consecutive years as a member of either house. His private character
is unblemished and unexceptionable. In church communion he is a Presbyterian.
Married Miss Anna Lucas, of Portsmouth, Ohio, April 14, 1857; has three
sons--William, Robert and Samuel. Politically, Mr. McNutt is a stanch Republican.
He has ever been identified with the public interests of Muscatine County,
and is a valued citizen.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879
McNUTT,
Samuel, farmer, educator, lawyer, journalist, state senator, was
born Nov. 21, 1825, in Ireland, of Scotch origin. His boyhood was
spent on a farm in Delaware; and he was educated at the Delaware
college. He then engaged in educational work; and was elected president
of the New Castle County Teachers' association. In 1851 he began
the practice of law in Milwaukee, Wis. In 1852 he was professor of
the Male seminary of Hernando, Miss., and in 1856 was principal of the
public school of Muscatine, Iowa. The same year he was editor of
the Times-Inquirer; during 1856–59 was associate editor of the Dubuque
Herald; and in 1861 became editor of the Dubuque Daily Union. From 1864
he served six years as a representative in the Iowa state legislature;
and during 1870–74 served as a state senator. In 1884 he was a member of
the Farmers' National congress, and in 1890 was appointed United States
consul to Maracaibo, Venezuela.
Source:
Herringshaw's Encyclopedia of American Biography of the Nineteenth Century.
page 646
McNutt,
Samuel, one of the pioneers of Iowa, who has had a large part in
shaping its history, is a resident of Muscatine, where he is passing
his advancing years in quiet comfort, engaged in literary study and correspondence.
He has contributed to the preservation of Iowa history by a number of writings.
Mr. McNutt was born November
21, 1825, in the north of Ireland, twenty miles west of Londonderry, and
is the son of Samuel McNutt and Hannah Stewart McNutt. The family is of
Scotch origin and descended from a somewhat noted ancestry. While he was
yet a child the family came to America, and after a brief stay in Philadelphia
settled in New Castle county, Del., near the village of Newark. His mother
was now a widow with seven children, of whom Samuel was the oldest. For
forty years she devoted her life and energies to the education and interests
of her children, three boys and four girls, and had the happiness
to see them all honorably settled in life. Her second son, Robert, became
an eminent physician in Louisiana, but as he was a union man, he barely
escaped to the north with his life, losing all his property in Louisiana.
Governor Kirkwood appointed him assistant surgeon of the Thirty-eighth
Iowa infantry. The third son, James, also joined the union army, being
attached to the medical department of the regular army, and for more than
a year had medical charge of Fort Jackson and Fort St. Phillip, below New
Orleans. Mrs. McNutt died in Iowa, December 24, 1874, at the age of 85
years.
Samuel passed his boyhood
working on the little farm in Delaware. Books were few and his early
training was largely from the Catechism, Psalms of David, Proverbs of
Solomon, Scotch Martyrs and Weems' Life of Washington. He contributed some
poems to the Temperance Star, of Wilmington, Del., which attracted the
attention of Dr. J. S. Bell, of Newark, one of the professors in
Delaware college, who assisted the young man to secure an education. During
his college days he contributed to Peterson's Magazine, Neal's Gazette,
Godey's Lady's Book, Saturday Courier and other publications, and his writings
had a wide circulation.
Leaving college he engaged
in teaching and at the same time studied law under the direction of Hon.
Daniel M. Bates, then secretary of state of Delaware. In 1851 he went to
Milwaukee, was admitted to the bar and started to practice there,
but being offered a professorship in a collegiate institute in Hernando,
Miss., he went there for two years. In 1854 he came north and located in
Muscatine county, Iowa. In 1856 he was principal of the First ward
public school and in that year he and D. F. Wells, who was principal
of the Third ward school, edited the first educational magazine in Iowa,
called the Voice of Iowa, published by Dr. Enos, of Cedar Rapids. At the
close of the year he bought a half interest in the Muscatine Enquirer,
and became its editor. Subsequently he was associate editor of the Dubuque
Herald, under the management of Joseph B. Dorr, and remained in that capacity
until 1860, when the paper was sold to Mahoney & Co. Mr. McNutt had
been a democrat in politics and a friend and supporter of Stephen
A. Douglas, but when the southern states began to secede and the war was
threatening, he came out strongly in favor of the constitution and the
administration of Abraham Lincoln, and supported it by every means. The
Herald being opposed to the administration, Mr. McNutt, at the request
of democratic friends, started the Daily Evening Union, to counteract the
influence of the Herald Publication of this paper was discontinued in about
a year with a heavy financial loss, and Mr. McNutt became one of
the editors of the Dubuque Times. In the fall of 1862, intending to go
into the army, he removed his family to his farm in Muscatine county, where
he has since resided.
In 1863, while recruiting
for the Eighth Iowa cavalry, he was nominated and elected by the republicans
of Muscatine county for representative to the Tenth General Assembly, and
was afterwards twice re-elected. At the close of his third term in the
house he was elected without opposition to the senate. He had a good record
in the legislature, and was one of the pioneers in the introduction of
bills for the control of railroad corporations. It was he who secured
passage through the house of the Gue bill, to drive out of Iowa the
“wild cat” currency then in circulation. He was the chairman of the committee
which investigated the Fort Madison penitentiary in 1872, and wrote the
report which prevented the state from paying a bogus claim of prison
labor contractors for $47,000, and recommended a new
penitentiary where rock could be quarried. This resulted in the location
and erection of the new penitentiary at Anamosa. In 1872 he was a candidate
for the republican nomination for state treasurer, and had a large following.
He was prominent in the Grange movement, and is author of the monster petition
signed by 70,000 Iowa farmers, asking for legislation to regulate railroad
charges.
President Harrison appointed
Mr. McNutt, on August 13, 1890, to be United States Consul at Maracaybo,
Venezuels, but a brief residence in that climate convinced him that it
was not suitable to him and he resigned and returned to Iowa. He was city
judge in 1894 and 1895. For twenty years he was an officer of the Muscatine
County Agricultural society, and is a member of the Scotch-Irish Society
of America. He belongs to the Presbyterian church but entertains very liberal
views of religion and humanity. He joined the Washingtonlans when a boy;
in 1851, the Odd Fellows; in 1861, the Union League, and in 1872, the Patrons
of Husbandry.
Mr. McNutt was married
April 14, 1857, to Miss Anna E. Lucas, of Portsmouth, Ohio, niece of Robert
Lucas, ex-governor of Ohio. In August, 1889, while his wife was on a visit
to their son William, in Nebraska, she was taken sick and died there. Their
living children are: William L., a farmer in Ord, Neb.; Robert S., a practicing
dentist in Muscatine, and Samuel B., a practicing dentist in Des Moines.
Source:
Biographies and Portraits of the Progressive Men of Iowa. Gue, B.F. Des
Moines:
Conaway & Shaw Publishers,
1899. page 263
MEASON,
George, Justice of the Peace; was born in Fayette Co., Penn., in
1806; he grew up to manhood there, and married Miss Mary Ewing, of Fayette
Co., Penn.; in 1832, while living in that State, he was chosen by the people
to offices of trust and distinction; he was elected Treasurer of Fayette
Co., and was also elected Sheriff of the county; was Commissioner, and
held the office of Associate judge; he came to Iowa in 1852, and located
in Muscatine, and has lived here since then, except six years he spent
in Kansas; he was elected County Judge in 1855, and held that office two
years; he was Assistant Assessor of Internal Revenue; afterward was appointed
Assessor of Internal Revenue; he has held the office of Mayor of this city
for eight consecutive years; he was elected Justice of the Peace in October,
1876. Mr. and Mrs. Meason have six daughters and one son living.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa Containing A History of the County,
its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879 City of Muscatine
MESSICK,
G. W., farmer, Sec. 21; O. O. Muscatine; born in Pickaway Co., Ohio,
Oct. 6, 1817. Married Miss Martha A. Dougherty Nov. 28, 1839; born in Ross
Co., Ohio, Jan. 1, 1822; removed to Louisa Co., Iowa, in 1841; removed
to Muscatine in 1846, where he engaged in the grocery business for nine
years, and in 1856 returned to Louisa Co., where he engaged in farming;
in 1863, removed to where he now lives, where he owns 110 acres of land.
When Mr. Messick came to Louisa Co., there was only one building in his
vicinity; his nearest mill was seventeen miles away, and when he took a
grist to mill, he had to stand on a bench eight feet high and bolt the
flour, by turning a crank on the outside of the mill; on some occasions
had to go thirty-six miles to mill. Mr. Messick has seven children--Mary
E. (now Mrs. Gilbert), Frank P., William, Orpha D. (now Mrs. Echelbarger),
Orilla M. C. (now Mrs. Townsley), Edward L., Charley E., and eight deceased--William
H., Ann C., Letitia, George W., Minerva J.--others died in infancy. Mr.
and Mrs. Messick are members of the M. E. Church. Mr. M. has been a member
since 13 years of age; Democrat.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa Containing A History of the County,
its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879
METZ,
GEORGE, farmer, Sec. 9; P.O. Fairport; was
born in Bedford Co., Penn. Feb. 18, 1822, where he received a liberal education,
including surveying and circumnavigation; he became quite an adept in those
branches. In 1849, seeking new fields of enterprise, he came to Iowa,
stopped at Bloomington (now Muscatine), where he clerked for J. G. Gordon
for three years; in 1852, became dissatisfied, and, thinking California
offered more adventure, removed there; remained five years mining and prospecting,
and finding that a failure, financially, he again returned to Muscatine,
Iowa; thence to Ohio, and while there married Miss Susan Rinard, in 1858;
returned to Iowa and located on his present farm in Montpelier Tp., where
he has improved and has a fine farm of 240 acres. Mrs. M. was
a native of Marietta, Ohio, a daughter of John Rinard , of the same county;
they have three children--Amanda (now Mrs. Joseph Shafer), Rosa and John
H. Mrs. Metz died Sept. 4, 1868; and Mr. M. again married Miss Mary
E. Bohl, of this county, a native of Ohio, in April, 1869; they have two
children--George and Margaret. Mr. M. and wife are members of the
M.E. Church. Mr. M. has held several offices of trust since he has
been in the county--Trustee, Assessor and Town Clerk--which offices he
has held for over eighteen years. He has also done some very important
surveying in the county. During the war, he was enrolling officer.
In politics, formerly a Whig, until the organization of the Republican
party, which he helped organize in California; has ever been an uncompromising
foe to human slavery in all forms.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa Containing A History of the County,
its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879
MILLAR,
John W., far., Sec.6; P. O. Muscatine; was born in Scioto
Co., Ohio, in 1838, and came with his parents to Iowa in 1849, locating
in Muscatine Co. on the farm on which he now resides and improved; married
Miss Henrietta Mikesell, daughter of John Mikesell, of Muscatine Co., in
1864. They have had four children, three still living---Anna, Hallie and
Henrietta. Mr. M. has a farm of 225 acres, located about three and
a half miles west of the city; has been very extensively engaged in the
stock business for many years; is now engaged in the improvement of stock,
hogs and cattle, in which he takes a deep interest; he is also engaged
in propagating fish, and has several fine fish-ponds filled with trout
and salmon. Members of the Presbyterian Church, and he is also a member
of the A. O. U. W. In politics, is a staunch Republican. He enlisted
in the 1st I. V. I., Co. A, and served six months, and, in 1864, was drafted
into the army again. Mr. M. was married, drafted and had an heir all inside
of one year; is among the most enterprising men of the County.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa Containing A History of the County,
its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879
MILLAR,
RAYNOLDS, farmer, Sec. 1; P.O. Muscatine; was born in Scioto Co.,
Ohio, in 1814; his parents Abraham and Rebecca Miller, were natives of
Virginia; they removed to Ohio in 1804; they went to Missouri in 1844;
his mother died in Mississippi Co., Mo.; his father died in Ohio, where
he had returned on business, about 1854; Mr. Miller came to Muscatine
Co. in 1850, and purchased his present farm, but located thereon in 1852.
He married in 1852 Margaret Kerr, a native of Ohio, born in 1824; they
have had three children, two of whom are living---Rebecca (now Mrs. Jacob
Estle, resides in Louisa Co., Iowa), Elizabeth (now Mrs. John Estle, resides
in Dallas Co., Iowa); their third child, Catherine, died aged about 1 1/2
years. Mr. Miller has 800 acres of land, engaged principally
in stock-raising.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa Containing A History of the County,
its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879
NOTE: correct spelling
of the surname is MILLAR--it is listed as MILLER (misspelled) all the way
through the biography.
MILLAR,
William H., Sec. 6; P. O. Muscatine; was born in Scioto Co., Ohio,
Feb., 28, 1807; in 1849, with his family, removed to Iowa, and settled
in Muscatine Co., on the farm on which he still resides; married Feb. 17,
1835, Miss Rebecca S., daughter of Charles Steenberger, of Piketon, Pike
Co., Ohio. They have had six children, five still living--Charles
S. John W., Abraham H., Polly H. (now the wife of Presiding Elder Miller,
of Iowa City), and Lavisa S.; members of the M. E. Church; Mr. M.
has been a member of that church for over forty years. All of Mr. M.'s
sons were in the army during the late war. He improved the large farm upon
which he lives, consisting of over six hundred acres; is a pioneer of Muscatine
County, and has held several offices of trust and responsibility; was overseer
of the work on the levee while it was being built from Muscatine to a point
eight or nine miles below the city. He has raised a family of very enterprising
sons to make their mark in the world; was formerly a Whig, now a stanch
Republican, and ever a foe to human slavery.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa Containing A History of the County,
its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879
MILLER,
E.E., proprietor of restaurant; confectioner and dealer in
choice candies, fruits, nuts, cigars and tobaccos. Mr. M. was born in Boston,
Mass., June 9, 1855. In September, 1878, married Miss Anna B. Reece of
this city. Mr. Miller has a good record as a pedestrian, and at present
is the champion walkist of Iowa; he is an enterprising citizen, courteous
to all, and since his coming to Muscatine has made many warm friends.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa Containing A History of the County,
its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879 City of Muscatine
MILLER,
Frederick, retired, res. Fourth st., Wilton; prominent among the
early settlers and long identified with the growth, development and progress
of Muscatine Co. He is a son of Michael Miller and Polly Young; born in
York Co., Penn., April 13, 1808, where his ancestors had resided for several
generations, having emigrated from Germany; his grandfather Miller having
obtained his land in that county from the English Government; his grandfather
on his mother's side was Frederick Young, a native of Scotland, who emigrated
to America and settled in York Co., where she was born, being one of nineteen
children. The parents of both had lived to an extreme old age; his grandmother
Young was 97; his grandmother Miller, 85 years of age, at death. The father
of our subject, Michael Miller, was an extensive farmer, but having met
with severe losses, during the war of 1812, at his death (which occurred
when Frederick was a mere boy) left the family in destitute circumstances
and at the age of 13, he was obliged to go among strangers; was employed
at farming until 16 years of age, at which time he learned the blacksmith
trade, and for several years worked at journey-work. At the age of
23, in Lancaster Co., he married Catharine, daughter of Robert and Polly
Thompson, nee Linch, both of whom died previous to the 3d year of age;
she was born in Centre Co., Penn., May 5, 18-- (sic),
and was brought up by her mother's parents. Mr. Miller continued to work
at his trade in Lancaster Co. until 1834, when he was ordained Pastor of
the Evangelical Association, and traveled through his native State and
Virginia for six years; then again,
he took up his trade in his native county; in April, 1843, they came to
Iowa, making most of the journey by water, arriving at Pittsburgh during
the terrible fire of that year; they were nearly six weeks making the journey
to Bloomington (now Muscatine), where Mrs. M. says they did not know
when Sabbath came; he bought a lot on Mulberry st., cor. Fourth, what is
now Court House square, on which was standing a double log cabin, one part
of which he converted into a blacksmith-shop, the other containing the
family and household goods, and in this manner they lived for three years,
when he erected a brick shop, 20x40, and, in 1849, built (on the same lot)
a fine brick hotel, two-story and basement, 28x50, in which he soon did
a flourishing business; having to abandon his trade, he converted his shop
into a barn and also built one, 24x120 ft.; both of which containing double
rows of horse, were filled to the capacity each and every night, his bills
amounting to $50 and $60 per day; in 1858, he exchanged his property for
a farm of 240 acres, near
Sweetland Centre, where they remained until 1863, and removed to Wilton,
where Mr. M. erected a warehouse where the elevator now stands, and speculated
in grain for two years; after which his eldest son, D. T., and himself,
erected a store on Fourth st., in which they engaged in the
dry goods trade for four years, when he retired. They have six children--D.
T., born in Pennsylvania, Feb. 3, 1834, now of Chicago, on Board of Trade,
a bachelor; Fred P., born Feb. 8, 1838, now of Newton, Jasper Co., grain
and lumber merchant; Sarah, born June 26, 1840, the wife of Stephen Winders,
of West Liberty, engaged in the boot and shoe trade; Catherine, born April
1, 1842, the wife of Tunis Burdge of Boonsboro, Iowa, tailor; Harriet A.,
born Jan. 10, 1846, the wife of Charles Axtell, of Newton, Jasper Co.,
dry goods merchant, and Marshall H., born Oct. 31, 1849, a conductor on
the S. W. R. R.; his res. is Wilton. Mr. Miller believes
in the universal salvation of all mankind, while Mrs. M. is a member of
long standing in the Presbyterian Church.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa Containing A History of the County,
its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879 Wilton Twp
MILLER,
H. B., farmer, Sec. 17; P. O. Blairstown; born in Cedar Co., Iowa,
March 16, 1851. Married Miss S. C. Herring in 1873; she was born
in Ohio in 1855; they have one child -- Warren Benton. Has 200 acres of
land, valued at $5,000. Mr. and Mrs. Miller are members of the Evangelical
Church.
Source: The History of
Benton County Iowa, 1878
MILLER,
Henry, farmer, Sec. 19; P. O. Blairstown; was born in Guernsey Co.,
Ohio, April, 1825. Married Miss Johnson in Cedar Co., Iowa, in 1849; she
was born in Ohio; they have eight children -- H. B., William H., E. J.,
John W., Charles, Homer McCleanan, Edwin Lee and Carrie Asbareen. Mr. Miller
was one of the earliest settlers in the State of Iowa; came to this State
in 1836; located in Cedar Co.; followed milling ten years; carried on business
in Muscatine two years and moved into Benton Co. in 1863. Mr. Miller
has 800 acres of land, valued at $30 per acre; fine buildings, grounds,
etc. Mr. and Mrs. Miller are members of the Evangelical Church.
Source: The History of
Benton County Iowa, 1878
MILLER,
Louis, farmer, Sec. 12; P. O. Muscatine; born in Bavaria, Germany,
Feb. 27, 1827; came to Muscatine Co. in the spring of 1853. Married Miss
C. Smaltz, in 1861; she was born in Bavaria, Germany, May 4, 1840; they
have four children--Louis, Henry, Edward and Victoria. Mr. Miller enlisted
in the 35th Regt., Co. C, I. V. I., Aug. 15, 1862, and served till the
close of the war; was at the siege of Vicksburg, Pleasant Hill, Jackson,
Spanish Fort, Nashville, and in most of the battles of his regiment. Member
of the Catholic Church; Republican.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa Containing A History of the County,
its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879
MILLER,
Robert, far., Sec. 9; P. O. West Liberty; was born in the County
of Tyrone, North of Ireland, in 1832; emigrated to the United States in
1847, settling first in West Virginia; in 1854, visited California, where
he successfully engaged in mining for several years; in 1857, returned
to the States, locating near West Liberty; has made the principal improvements
on the farm on which he resides, consisting of 240 acres. Mr. M. married
Miss Maria Keith (a native of Carroll Co., Ohio ) in 1859; they have four
children---Julia, Celeste, Howard and Harry. Members of the Christian Church;
Mr. M. is a member of the A.F.& A. M.; also of the R.A.M.Chapter. Mr.
M. is a stanch Republican in his political views. Mr. M. was one on the
pioneers in the fine blooded-stock business, and six or seven years ago
founded his now justly famous herd of short-horns, Plum-Grove Herd, which
is one of the most extensive, and none superior, in the West; his trade
extends from the Mississippi to the Pacific Coast; he has sold several
large herds to Montana, Wyoming, Colorado and Dakota.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa Containing A History of the County,
its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879
MILLER,
William J., far., Sec. 7; P. O. Atalissa; son of John B. and
Susan Miller; owns 223 acres of land, valued at $30 per acre; born March
3, 1832, in Somerset Co., Penn.; came to this county in October, 1854,
in the spring of 1855, his parents came here, locating in Goshen Tp., where
his father died, in 1872. Married Nancy Gatton, daughter of William and
Elizabeth Gatton, Oct.23, 1856; she was born in November, 1830; her parents
came from Holmes Co., Ohio, to this county in 1839, consequently being
among its earliest settlers; her father died in December, 1876, have five
children living--- Adessa, Allen C., Isabelle, Ulysses and Julius; lost
one--- Filey; Member Presbyterian Church; Republican.
Source:
The History of Muscatine County Iowa Containing A History of the County,
its Cities, Towns, & etc.
Western Historical Company
Chicago Illinois 1879
MITTMAN,
Frederick, far., Sec. 9; was born in Williamsburg, Germany,
1825; came to this country in 1853; stopped first in Ohio. In 1854, removed
to Iowa, and located on the farm on which he now lives, consisting of 263
acres, located in Muscatine Co. Mr. M. is engaged extensively in the dairy
business, which he is making a success financially. He carried on the blacksmith
business some nine years in the city of Muscatine, prior to moving on his
farm. In 1853, he married Miss Catherine Haneigan, prior to leaving Germany
for the United States. They have four children--John, Robert, Andrew, Pauline.
He is a stanch Republican; members of the Protestant Church.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879 City
of Muscatine
MOLIS,
William P.; Superintendent and Engineer of the Muscatine Water-works;
was born in Muscatine April 7, 1854; he was brought up here and attended
school, and afterward learned the business of mechanical engineer at Clinton
and in St. Louis; he assisted in building the water-works at Clinton and
Davenport; he was appointed to his present position in September, 1876,
and since then has filled the office with ability and satisfaction.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879 City
of Muscatine
MORGRIDGE,
G.O. - physician and surgeon, Muscatine; is
a native of Marion Co., Ohio, and was born Jan. 26, 1840; lived there until
16 years of age, then removed to Bloomington, Ind., where he attended the
University one year; then came to Iowa, settled in Cedar Co., and lived
there until the war broke out. He enlisted in the fall of 1861, in the
11th Regt. I. V. I., Co. H; was in the battles of Shiloh, Corinth and the
siege of Vicksburg; after the fall of Atlanta, he was commissioned Captain
of Co. H, and commanded the company until the close of the war; he was
wounded at the battle of Shiloh and at the fight of Nicojack Creek, and
at the battle of Atlanta, July 22, 1864; he was with Sherman in his march
to the sea, and was in the last battle of the war; marched to Washington,
took part in the grand review, and was mustered out at Davenport.
After the war, he returned, entered the State University and remained two
years, then studied medicine in Keokuk under Dr. J. C. Hughes, and graduated
at the College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1870; he afterward attended
the full course of instruction at Bellevue, New York; he practiced medicine
at West Liberty until July, 1878, and since then he has practiced here.
He married Miss Ruth A. Casebeer, a native of Iowa, in 1867, they have
two children--Henry W. and Myrta E.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879 City
of Muscatine
Another
biography from a different source:
MORGRIDGE,
George Osborn, of Muscatine, is one of the well-known physicians
of eastern Iowa. He is of Puritan ancestry; his great-great-grandfather,
John Morgridge, came from England soon after 1700 and settled at Newburyport,
Mass., where he was engaged in shipbuilding. His son, Samuel, Dr. Morgridge's
great-grandfather, was a man of learning, who also followed shipbuilding
until injured by a fall, after which he was a teacher. He married
Ruth Siloers, a native of Ireland, and died June 26, 1772. His son,
the doctor's grandfather, was born at Amesbury, Mass., August 20, 1760,
and died April 19, 1798. Dr. Morgridge's father, Isaac Morgridge, was born
September 1, 1798, in Maine. At the age of 15 he came to Marion county,
Ohio, where he cut wood and farmed. Two years later he joined the cavalry
to serve on the northern frontier in the war of 1812, but before reaching
the front peace was declared. He afterwards moved to Iowa, where he died
April 8, 1865. Dr. Morgridge's mother, whose maiden name was Auner
Thankful Ballentine, was born November 17, 1805, at Schodack on the Hudson,
and was married to Isaac Morgridge at Marion, Ohio, September 30, 1828.
Previous to her marriage she was a teacher in the public schools of Columbus,
Ohio. She was a daughter of Dr. Ebenezer Ballentine, who was a graduate
of Yale college, and was commissioned “Surgeon's Mate” in a Massachusetts
regiment during the revolution. His father, Rev. John Ballentine, of Scotch
descent, was a native of Boston. He graduated from Harvard in 1735, and
was called to the pastorate of the Congregational church at Westfield,
Mass., in 1740, where he preached for thirty-five years. He died February
12, 1776, aged 60 years.
Returning from the war
Dr. Morgridge entered the State university, where he studied nearly two
years, then entered the office of Dr. J. C. Hughes, Sr., of Keokuk, and
in March, 1870, graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons,
at Keokuk, and from the medical department of the State university in 1874.
During the year 1875-6 he completed the course at Bellevue college, New
York, and soon afterwards moved to Muscatine, Iowa, where he has made his
home ever since, and has enjoyed the liberal patronage which he deserves.
Politically, Dr. Morgridge
is a republican. He served twelve years as a member of the Muscatine board
of education. He belongs to the Masonic fraternity and to the Congregational
church. He was married in November, 1866, to Ruth A. Casebeer, whose father
was a pioneer Methodist preacher and a pronounced abolitionist. Dr. and
Mrs. Morgridge have had two children: Henry W., born in 1867, and
Myrta E., born in 1870. His son, Henry, graduated in medicine in 1890,
was associated with him in business until October 25, 1897, at which date
he died aged 30 years. He was a young man of ability and was greatly loved
and respected by all.
Source:
Biographies and Portraits of the Progressive Men of Iowa. Gue, B.F. Des
Moines:
Conaway & Shaw Publishers,
1899. ; page 393
MOSER,
PHILIP S., M. D.
Dr. Philip S. Moser, who
through the period of his professional career was engaged in practice in
Iowa, was born in Charleston, South Carolina, and acquired his education
in the common schools. He then supplemented his literary course by studying
medicine with a view to engage in practice. At length he was graduated
as a physician and soon afterward came to Iowa, choosing Muscatine
as his location. He practiced there for several years and subsequently
removed to Boone county, where his remaining days were devoted to ministering
to the sick and suffering. He always kept in touch with the advanced thought
of the profession, read widely and carried his researches far into the
realms of scientific knowledge. He was interested in everything that
tended to bring to man the key to the complex mystery which we call
life, and he was conscientious as well as faithful and able in his practice.
While Dr. Moser never
resided in Cedar Rapids, his family have for some years made their
home here. In 1882 he wedded Miss Louie V. Gosting, who was born in Delaware
county, Iowa, a daughter of Edward and Mary Ann Gosting, both of whom were
natives of England. Crossing the Atlantic, they became residents of Iowa
at an early day in the history of this state and here continued to
reside until called to their final rest. Unto Dr. and Mrs. Moser were born
two daughters. Lillian B., who resides with her mother at home, is
a graduate of the Cedar Rapids high school and also a graduate of music
and is now successfully conducting a music store in this city. Laura L.
is the wife of Loren Goumer, now of Waterloo, Iowa. Mrs. Moser and
her daughter reside in a beautiful residence which she owns at No. 632
Second avenue and have made many friends during the period of their
residence here.
History of Linn County
Iowa from its Earliest Settlement to the Present Time: 1911, Volume
II.
MOUNTAIN,
J.P., farmer, Sec 33, P.O. West Liberty; son of Jonathan and Elizabeth
(Pringey) Mountain, whho were natives of Pennsylvania, but now deceased;
is a native of Somerset Co., Penn., born in 1833; in 1857, he came and
located to Muscatine Co., Iowa, improving the fine farm on which he now
resides, consisting of 240 acres. Mr. M. married in 1873 Miss Molly
A. Cuppet, a native of West Virginia; they have two children--Earl and
Lesta. Mrs. M. is a consistent member of the M.E. Church; Mr. M.
has for several years been interested in the improvement of short-horned
cattle, and has some very fine registered cattle. Is a stanch Republican.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879
MOZER,
August; proprietor of Railroad House, Front street; is a native
of France; was born in 1837; emigrated to New York in 1866, removed thence
to Ashtabula Co., Ohio, remained until 1867, when he came to Muscatine.
In 1869, he married Miss Zeraphine Ferry, in this city; she was also a
native of France; they have four children--August, Paul, Albert and Martha.
Mr. Mozer acts with the Democratic party; members of the CatholicChurch.
He has been engaged in business in Muscatine since 1876.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879
MUDGE,
A.O., dentist, Fourth st.; residence, Fifth st., Wilton; born
in Clarendon Co., Vt., Nov. 22, 1843; when eight years of age, his parents
removed to Warren Co., N. Y., where they remained for four years; came
west and settled in Jones Co., of this state. In August, 1862, he enlisted
in the 12th Iowa Infantry, with which he participated at Arkansas Post
and other battles; mustered out at Helena, Ark., May, 1863. Attended the
Baptist Collegiate Institute at Milton, Wis., for several terms. In April,
1867, he married Miss Ellen E., daughter of N. M. Walrod, of Welton, Clinton
Co., Iowa, where she was born in 1852; in the winter of 1867-68, he studied
dentistry, and practiced in Welton, that county, for two years; and after
farming for two years, in the summer of 1872, he removed to Wilton, of
this county, where he has since continued to practice his chosen profession.
They have one child--Loyal H., born in April, 1869. Republican.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879 Wilton
Twp
MURPHY,
M. of the firm of Byrne & Murphy, dealers in groceries,
provisions, produce, flour, feed, confectionery, fruits, etc., Muscatine,
Iowa; Mr. Murphy was born in Tipperary County, Ireland, in 1830; emigrated
to this country in 1847. He married Miss Elizabeth Coffey, of Muscatine;
they have eleven children. Mr. Murphy and his wife are members of
the Catholic Church. Politically, Mr. M. is a Democrat. Was elected
Alderman of the Fourth Ward four years; has also filled the office of Street
Commissioner; in both offices he performed his duties in an able and efficient
manner.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879
MUSSER,
P.M., of the firm of Musser & Co., manufacturers of lumber,
Musserville, Muscatine, and also of the firm of Cook, Musser & Co.,
bankers; is a native of Lancaster Co., Penn., and was born April 3, 1841;
he was brought up and received his education in that State; after reaching
manhood, he came to Iowa in 1862 and located in Muscatine and engaged in
the lumber business; the following year in 1863, he removed to Iowa City
and engaged in the lumber business, the firm being R. Musser & Co.,
which was afterward changed to P. M. Musser & Co.; he retained his
interest in the business of the firm of R. Musser & Co. here while
living in Iowa City; in the spring of 1873, Mr. Musser returned to Muscatine,
and since then, has been actively identified with the management of the
extensive milling and lumber business of Musser & Co.; in March, 1877,
he associated with S. B. Cook and H. Funck and engaged in banking, the
firm being Cook, Musser & Co. In December, 1855, Mr. Musser was united
in marriage to Miss Julia E. Hutchinson, daughter of Robert Hutchinson,
Esg., of Iowa City; they have two children--one son and one daughter—Robert
Clifton and Helen Jeff; they have lost one daughter--Laura.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879
MUSSER,
Richard; senior partner
of the firm of Musser & Co., manufacturers of lumber, Musserville,
Muscatine; is a native of Lancaster Co., Penn., and was born Nov. 15, 1819,
and was brought up there; after reaching manhood, he removed to Schuylkill
Co. and lived there until 1854, when he came to Iowa and in Muscatine the
following spring; in 1855, he engaged in the lumber business, and has been
engaged in it nearly a quarter of a century, building up a large and extensive
trade; their mills are among the largest and most complete on the river,
having a capacity during a full season of making from eighteen to twenty
million feet of lumber, employing over one hundred men and boys. Mr. Musser
was twice elected Mayor of the city of Muscatine, and has also held the
offices of Alderman and County Supervisor, and is actively identified with
the interest of the city and county. He married Miss Sarah Berger, a native
of Schuylkill Co., Penn., in 1855; they have had nine children, only
five of whom survive.
Another
biography of Richard Musser from a different source:
MUSSER,
Richard, of Muscatine, one of the pioneer lumbermen of Iowa, was
a native of Lancaster county, Pa., and was born in Adamstown on the 15th
day of November, 1819. His parents were Peter and Elizabeth (Adams) Musser,
who were also natives of Pennsylvania. The father was born in Berks county
and was of Swiss origin, while the mother was born in Lancaster county
and was of Scotch-English descent. He received a common school education,
and began his business career as a merchant's clerk, and on attaining manhood
engaged in the tanning and leather business in Pine Grove, Schuylkill county,
until October, 1854, when he emigrated to Iowa. The first year Mr. Musser
spent at Iowa City, and in 1855 located at Muscatine, where he formed a
partnership with his brother and Mr. Edward Hoch in the lumber business,
the firm being known as Hoch & Musser. The partnership was for a term
of three years and at the expiration of that time Mr. Hoch retired, and
the business was continued under the firm name of R. Musser & Co. Various
changes in the firm occurred, until the incorporation of the Musser Lumber
company in 1871.
In 1849, at Pine Grove,
Schuylkill county, Pa., the marriage of Mr. Richard Musser and Miss Sarah
Filbert, daughter of Peter Filbert of that place, was celebrated. In less
than a year after her marriage, Mrs. Musser died, and about five years
later Mr. Musser, who was then in business in Muscatine, Iowa, returned
to Pine Grove, Pa., and on March 15, 1855, was united in marriage to Miss
Sarah Elizabeth Berger. Nine children were born of this union, of whom
those now living are William, residing in Iowa City; Suzanne, Kathryn,
Grace, Gertrude and Linda, living in Muscatine.
He took a warm interest
in the cause of education, and served nine years as a member of the Muscatine
school board. He was a member of the city council and served two terms
as mayor of the city, first in 1874 and again in 1878. He has been prominently
identified with the leading manufacturing industry of Muscatine for
forty years, and by his energy and enterprise has been instrumental in
building up one of the most important lumber corporations on the middle
Mississippi. He was also identifled with the extensive sash, door and blind
factory, carried on by the Muscatine Manufacturing company in Muscatine
and Kansas City, the Muscatine waterworks and other companies. The people
of Muscatine need no printed eulogy of Richard Musser and his achievements
to herald his praises to the present generation; his works speak for themselves.
But when this generation shall have passed away and the history
of the people, who, by their enterprise and public spirit improved and
developed the natural resources of this state, is to be read by posterity,
it will only be proper that the records should show that the subject of
this sketch was always foremost in encouraging and sustaining all public
improvements calculated to benefit the city or county at large; that he
was active and influential in organizing various manufacturing companies
that furnished employment to all classes of labor and which, in their operation,
added wealth and importance to the city; that he was just and honorable
in all his relations to society, both public and private, and that the
general good and welfare of the community were considered as well
as the prospect of personal gain.
His death occurred on
the 2d of October, 1896, and the little city of Muscatine has never witnessed
a more genuine expression of widespread sorrow than that which accompanied
the obsequies of Richard Musser. “It would be a brighter world were there
more of his type left.”
Source:
Biographies and Portraits of the Progressive Men of Iowa. Gue, B.F. Des
Moines:
Conaway & Shaw Publishers,
1899. p.344
MYERS,
J.E., Cashier Farmers' and Citizen's National Bank, Cedar st., res
same, Wilton; was born in Montgomery Co., N.Y. , May 5, 1845, and when
five years of age, went with his parents to Saratoga Co., N.Y., where his
father (a physician) engaged in farming. J.E. was raised a farmer;
had an academical education; at the age of 20, he went to New York City,
where he was employed as clerk in a wholesale hardware store for three
years, after which he was engaged at jobbing in the same line until 1869,
when he sold out and came to Iowa; engaged in business at Wilton, until
1873, and at the organization of the above named bank was chosen Cashier,
which position he has since retained. In Wilton, June 26, 1874, he
married Jennie, daughter of Rev. Jacob Pentzer; she was born in Germantown,
Ohio, April 1, 1852, and with her parents removed to this county in 1859;
they have had two children--Philip Vanness was born May 13, 1875, and William
P., October 30, 1878, and died March 25, 1879. Members of the Presbyterian
Church, in which he has been chosen Elder.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879
N
NEIDIG, B.
,
of the firm of B. Neidig & Son, proprietors of meat market and ice-dealers,
Muscatine, Iowa; Mr. Neidig is a native of Pennsylvania; he came to Muscatine
in 1847. Has been twice married; first wife was Miss Catharine Snavely;
present wife was Miss Mary M. Smith. Mr. Neidig in early life, acted with
the Whig party; on its decline, became a Republican and has remained a
firm supporter of its principles. He is essentially a self-made man, and
an honored member of society; he has been established in business in the
city of Muscatine over thirty years, and during that time has enjoyed the
confidence and respect of all.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879
NEIDIG,
M.O. of the firm of B. Neidig & Son, ice dealers, also
proprietors of meat market, on Second street; Mr. Neidig was born in Frederick
Co., Md., in 1833; in 1849, removed to this city with his parents. He married
Miss Elizabeth H. Ryerson, of this city; she was born in New Jersey, came
to this county with her parents in 1855 or 1856; they have four children---Frank
A., Haddessah, Alice and Ralph. In politics, Mr. Neidig is Republican;
in religion, himself and wife are Presbyterian. He is a member of
the A. O. U. W.; he was elected a member of the Muscatine Council two years;
is a man of excellent character, a valuable citizen and an energetic business
man.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879
NELSON,
Joseph, farmer, Sec. 29; P.O. Conesville; owns 552 acres of land,
valued at $30 per acre; born Dec. 9, 1823, in Harrison Co., Ohio; in 1828,
his parents moved to Coshocton Co.; in the fall of 1854 he emigrated to
Muscatine Co., Iowa, locating in this township, and came to his present
farm in the spring of 1866. Married Elizabeth Adams Nov. 13,1846;
she was born Dec. 3, 1824, in Bedford Co., Penn.; have three children--Florence,
Theodora J. and Eva; lost three--Louisa J, John B. and an infant. Mr. N.
took quite an active part in procuring the B., C. R. & N. R. R. through
his township, donating eleven acres of land to the company; also grading
two miles of road from south line of township, north, taking the same in
rail-road stock, which has been almost a total loss; he has served as member
of the Board of Supervisors, also Township Trustee. Democrat.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879 page
644, Orono Twp.
NESBITT,
J.
B.
farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Nelson, was born in Stark County,
Ohio, in 1840, and was brought up on a farm until fourteen year of age,
then emigrated to Iowa and located in Mahaska County. In 1861, enlisted
in the Twelfth Illinois Infantry, serving three years; was then commissioned
as First Lieutenant in the One Hundred and First United States Colored
Regiment, serving for some time on the staff of Gen. Clinton B. Fisk, remaining
in the service until January, 1866; then located
at Muscatine, Iowa, working at carpentering, removing to Montgomery County
in the fall of 1879, following his trade and teaching until
1873, then came to Nebraska and took a homestead on Section 24, Town 4,
Range 7, Nuckolls County; then commenced work at his trade in company with
J. M. Cook, working at the business about three years; put up a hotel,
court house, store and other buildings in Nelson, the first season out
here, earning enough in this way to improve his place some and put up a
house; has 120 acres of his land improved, and has planted a nice little
orchard of apple and peach trees, besides cherries, plums and other small
fruits. Mr. Nesbitt was the first acting Superintendent of Public Instruction,
serving two terms of two years each, and did some good work in getting
the schools in good working order. There were nineteen school districts
when he came into office, which were increased by thirty-one when he went
out. Mr. Nesbitt really had the whole organization to do, and
did it to the satisfaction of the people, and has also served as Deputy
Clerk and Deputy Treasurer at different times. Was
married, in 1868, at Muscatine, Iowa, to Miss E. W. Lee, of that place.
They have five children--Ely, Paul, Rose, Maud, and Charlie. He
is a member of the G. A. R., and of the Baptist Church.
Source:
The History of the State of Nebraska, 1882, Western Historical Company,
A. T.
Andreas, Proprietor,
Chicago, IL.; Nuckolls Co.
NESTER,
John; proprietor of blacksmith shop on Mulberry street, Muscatine;
a native of Germany, born in 1828; emigrated to Indiana in 1844; remained
until 1854, then came to this city. He married in Toledo, Ohio, Miss A.
Banges; they have five children--John T., Andrew, Mary Theresa, Joseph
and May Agnes. Mr. Nester is a Democrat; members of the Catholic Church.
Mr. N. is always prepared to do first-class horse-shoeing and repairing
of all kinds; in fact, anything requiring mechanical skill and practical
workmanship.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879
NEWTON,
Thomas, farmer, Sec. 34; P. O. Nichols; owns 128 acres of
land, valued at $30 per acre; born April 20, 1820, in Wayne Co., Ind.;
emigrated to Iowa in the fall of 1850, stopping a short time in Seventy-six
Tp., afterward to Cedar Tp. a short time, then to his present farm, part
of which he entered from the Government. Married Viola Epperly March 5,
1846; she was born March 15, 1821, in Montgomery Co., Va.; have six children
living--Philander, born March 15, 1847; Waldo, born Oct. 24, 1848; Webster,
born Jan. 24, 1857; Iowa, born April 30, 1862; Thompson, born May 14, 1865;
Jeptha, born June 18, 1867; lost two--Warner and Angeline. Philander served
his country in Co. A of the 11th Iowa Inf., from Feb. 14, 1864, to July,
1865; participated in most of the battles under Gen. Sherman in his march
to the sea; still makes his home with his father. Mr. N. is a Friend by
birth-right; Republican.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879 Pike
Twp
NICHOLS,
B. F., farmer and dealer in real estate, Nichols Station; son of
Samuel and Mary ( nee Rodgers ) Nichols, born Sept. 5, 1826, in Highland
Co., Ohio, where his mother died Jan. 5, 1839; in the fall of 1838, his
father came to Muscatine Co. and purchased about one thousand acres of
land in the vicinity of what is now known as Nichols Station; in the spring
of 1840, brought his family and located on his land. In 1842, he was married
the second time to the widow of Dr. Searles. He added to his first purchase
of land till, at his death, Aug. 18, 1871, he owned about five thousand
acres of land. In January, 1850, Mr. B. F. Nichols went to California via
New Orleans and Panama route; engaged in mining and packing, also in mercantile
business to some extent; also spent some time in Oregon, Washington Territory,
British America, Idaho, Montana, etc.; in 1869, he returned to Muscatine
Co.; in 1873, engaged in the mercantile business in Nichols, and sold out
to Mr. Kirchner in December, 1878; he now owns about one thousand acres
of land, valued at $25 per acre, besides several buildings in town; is
also Postmaster, his father being the first Postmaster for this office.
Married Miss Susan M. Jenks Oct. 10, 1874. Mr. N. has one brother, Townsend,
living, and four sisters deceased. Has served as Treasurer of School Board
several years. Democrat.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879 Pike
Twp
NICHOLS,
IRA, farmer, Sec. 21; P.O. West Liberty; a native of Seneca Co.,
N.Y., born in 1820; removed with his parents to Morrow Co., Ohio; remained
there until 1853, then removed to Muscatine Co., Iowa, where he has since
resided; in the same year he located and improved the farm on which he
now resides. Mr. N. married Miss Elizabeth W. Luse, a native of Washington
Co., Penn., in 1843; they have three children--Charles M., Isaac A. and
J.I.; one son, Pliny C., died in the hospital from a wound received at
Vicksburg. Members of the Methodist Church; Mr. N. is a stanch Republican.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879
NICHOLS,
Thornton; farmer, Sec. 9; P. O. Muscatine; was born in Ross
Co., Ohio in 1836; came to Iowa with his parents, settling in Des Moines
Co., while he was quite young; remained there a number of years. Married,
in 1859, Miss Emily A. Bier, daughter of Henry Bier, of Louisa Co.; they
have four children--Henry H., Martha (now Mrs. C. Platt), Nannie and Lilly.
Mr. N. improved the farm on which he now resides, consisting of 205 acres,
valued at $100 per acre; in 1877, Mr. N. engaged in the dairy business
quite extensively, and still continues, in connection with farming. Members
of the M. E. Church. Mr. N. is a stanch Republican.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879
NIPPS,
Freeman E, is one of the veteran railroad men of Kansas. Like
many who have found success in that army of industrial workers, he began
at a country station and as a telegraph operator. For more than a quarter
of a century he has been the agent of the Missouri Pacific Railway at Topeka.
Unlike many railway men, he has at the same time identified himself closely
with local affairs, and at the present time his name is familiarly known
throughout Shawnee County as chairman of the board of commissioners.
Though most of his life
has been spent within the borders of Kansas,
Mr.
Nipps was born at Muscatine, Iowa, July 14, 1865. A few years later
his parents removed to Boone, Iowa. There he attended the public
schools until he was fourteen, and at that time he accompanied his parents
to Kansas. Mr. Nipps is a son of Jacob and Josephine (Pfeifer)
Nipps. His father was a man of considerable prominence in Phillips County,
Kansas. Before coming to this state he had enlisted in an Ohio regiment
during the Civil war, but continued illness prevented his taking an active
part for any length of time in the struggle to preserve the Union.
By trade he was a mechanic, but the greater part of his career was devoted
to agriculture. In order to better provide for his growing family of children
he came to Kansas in 1879. That was a comparatively early year in the settlement
of Northwestern Kansas, and unlike many who homesteaded at that time his
prosperity enabled him to move his property by railroad to within some
thirty or forty miles of his destination.
The rest of the way to
Phillips County was covered by wagon. As was the case of many Western Kansas
settlers at the time his family at first lived in a sod house on
the prairie in Phillips County. The county was very sparsely populated
and it was not unprecedented for a buffalo or an Indian to be seen on the
open range. Jacob Nipps acquired title to 320 acres of land, and later
added to this 320 acres more, and also owned good residence property in
Phillipsburg. For a man of no extensive literary training, he was well
posted on current topics and possessed an unusual fund of good, practical
sense. He was an eager supporter of the cause of education and made many
sacrifices that his children might have proper scholastic training. The
citizens of Phillips County recognized his worth by making him the recipient
of various local positions, and for two terms he was treasurer of that
county. In religion he was a Methodist and in politics a republican. As
long as he lived he commanded the greatest of respect for his many admirable
qualities of mind and heart. His widow still survives and lives with a
daughter at Muskogee, Oklahoma.
Freeman E. Nipps is one
of four surviving children out of the seven born to his parents. After
coming to Kansas he spent two terms in a district school and one term at
a small college at Harlan. When only sixteen he passed an examination and
secured a teacher's license, following which a district school had
his services as a teacher for two terms.
His career as a railroad
man began more than thirty years ago. At eighteen he took up the study
of telegraphy at Kirwin, Kansas, and completed this apprenticeship
at Jamestown, Kansas, where he was employed as station helper at
$35 a month. His first important position in railroad work was as an
operator at Atchison, following which he was stationed at various points
for a number of years, chiefly at Bigelow and Logan. For two years
he was clerk in the Kansas City office of the Missouri Pacific Railway,
but since February, 1888, has been this company's agent at Topeka. This
is one of the most responsible local positions along the road in Kansas.
His good citizenship has
been dignified by important service rendered his home city. For two years
he served as a councilman under the old form of city government. In 1912
he was elected a member of the board of commissioners for Shawnee County,
and has held that office ever since. Upon the reorganization of the board
in January, 1916, he was elected its chairman, a position he had declined
a year previously, as the minutes of the board disclosed. Mr. Nipps
is a republican, and is one of the most progressive of the younger
generation of Topeka business men. He is a thirty-second degree Scottish
Rite Mason, an Elk and an active member of the Topeka Commercial Club.
Mr. Nipps married Miss
Mary Smith. She is a daughter of the late Hon. James Smith, a prominent
Kansan, who served three terms as secretary of state from January, 1879,
to January, 1885, and who died May 28, 1914.
Source:
Kansas and Kansans: Volume 4
NOLL, William,
farmer, Sec. 13; P. O. Muscatine; born in Germany, in 1851; came to Muscatine
Co., with his parents, in 1866; A. Noll, William's father, was born in
Germany, Jan. 6, 1826; married Miss Anna Kurz, Oct. 27, 1848; she was born
in Germany, April 28, 1823; have four children---Germon, born Oct.
6, 1856; Theo., Nov. 17, 1857, Paul, June 29, 1864. He owns 270 acres of
land, and the family are members of the Catholic Church.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois
NORTON, Charles W., farmer,
breeder and dealer in short-horn cattle. Berkshire hogs and Cotswold sheep,
Sec. 13; P. O. Durant; the second son of Bundsy B. Norton and
Emily W. Ward, the former a native of Litchfield, Conn., where he was a
schoolmate of H. W. Beecher; the latter of Canadian birth and parentage;
both, when young, with their parents, became residents of Medina Co., Ohio,
where his father (Charles W.'s grandfather), a Captain in the Revolutionary
war, had taken up 1,000 acres of land; on this land, the parents of Charles
settled; had six children, five sons and one daughter--C. W., the second,
born Sept. 9, 1836; the mother died April 14, 1854. The father again married,
and is now an extensive farmer of Medina Co. At the age of 16, Charles
having secured a good common-school education, purchased his time from
his father, entered the academy at Seville, and remained for three terms,
and, after teaching several terms to obtain the means, continued his
studies; he went to Berea, Ohio, and took a scientific course; graduated
at Folsom's Mercantile College, at Cleveland, in 1857; then taught for
some time; and, after clerking in drugs at Phelps, N. Y., for two years,
he made a journey westward on horseback, traveling 4,300 miles, entering
land for Eastern parties. July 13, 1859, he married Mary, the youngest
of nine children of George W. and Heppie Collin, nee Steel, natives of
Hartford Co., Conn.; settled in Medina Co., Ohio, in 1819, where she was
born, in October, 1838. In the fall of 1863, they came to
this county, and settled where he now resides, investing $2,500 in a home,
to which has since been added until he now owns 740 acres, valued at $65
per acre, well stocked with short-horn cattle, imported Berkshire and Poland-China
hogs, and blooded sheep, on which he has received many first premiums at
the county fairs. They have four children--Oaky G., born Oct. 6, 1863;
James C., Aug. 16, 1868; Birdie L. July 3, 1873; Florence E., May 19, 1877.
Members of the Congregational Church; Republican.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois
NYE,
ALFRED, far., Sec 31; P.O. Melpine; born in Washington Co., Vt.,
in 1811; removed to Muscatine Co. in 1837, and settled in Fairport; remained
ten years, and removed where he now lives in 1847. Married Miss Sarah
Silverthorn in 1853; born in Northampton Co., Penn. In 1822; have six sons
and one daughter--Oriana A. (now Mrs. Abbot), Mahlon, Albert W., Walter
H., Willie G., Reuben E., Fred A. Mr. and Mrs. Nye are members of
the Christian Church. Mr. N. owns 500acres of fine farm land; has
improved 600 acres in the county. Democrat.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879 Fulton
Twp
NYENHUIS,
G.J., proprietor of brick yard on Lucas Grove road South Muscatine;
Mr. Nyenhuis was born in Holland, in 1820; emigrated to Baltimore, Md.,
in 1848; came to Muscatine in 1853. He married, in Holland, Miss Anna E.
H. Boyenk; they have eight children--Mary, now Mrs. A. Hine; Hattie, now
the wifeof M. Bodeman; Dennie, Senni, Annie Vandal B., Hiram and James.
Mr. Nyenhuis and wife are members of the Baptist Church; he is a Democrat;
he has been engaged in the manufacture of brick fourteen years, and does
an extensive business.
Source:
THE HISTORY OF MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA Containing A History of the County,
its Cities,
Towns, & etc. Western Historical Company Chicago Illinois 1879
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