Biographies, beginning with P, History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882 Transcribed by Sally Scarff <sallyb@mhtc.net> and Marlene Chaney <MChaney514@aol.com> for the USGenWeb Archives. Submitted August 2000 by Roxanne Barth <rlbarth@students.wisc.edu>, IAGenWeb Allamakee County Coordinator. ********************************************************************** USGENWEB ARCHIVES NOTICE: These electronic pages may NOT be reproduced in any format for profit or presentation by any other organization or persons. Persons or organizations desiring to use this material, must obtain the written consent of the contributor, or the legal representative of the submitter, and contact the listed USGenWeb archivist with proof of this consent. The submitter has given permission to the USGenWeb Archives to store the file permanently for free access. http://www.usgwarchives.net *********************************************************************** History of Clayton County Iowa 1882 Chicago: Inter-State Publishing Company, 1882 Reprinted by: Monona Historical Society, Monona, Iowa Reproduction by: Unigraphics, Inc., 1401 North Fares Ave, Evansville, Indiana 47711, 1975 P Sperry Twp. -- John Paddelford, a native of Chenango County, N.Y., was born May 22, 1815, and came to Iowa in April, 1840. He had visited the State in 1839, and being pleased with the outlook, resolved to make it his home. He settled first in Delaware County, and four years later in Sperry Township, Clayton County. He bought 160 acres, to which he has since added, until he now owns 120 acres in this township, 720 in Highland Township, and 700 acres in other parts of the county, making 1,540 acres in all. He also owns land in Minnesota, Wisconsin and New York. Upon coming to Clayton County he erected a log cabin, this being the first one built in the township. He returned to Delaware county after his household goods, and during his absence the cabin was destroyed by fire. He resided in a haymow the remainder of that winter, and in the spring built another cabin, eighteen and a half feet square and one story in height. This was his home until he built the large and commodious mansion, which he now occupies. He ws married in July, 1858, to Elizabeth Humphrey; his wife was born in the County of Cornwall, England, Apr. 6, 1824. Mr. Paddelford has held various offices of trust in the township, among them that of Township Trustee for the pst fourteen years, School Treasurer and Supervisor. He has ever been an active member of the Old Settlers' Association, and served as its Vice- President the first year of the its existence. In political views he is a Greenbacker. He is one of the largest land-owners in the county, and numbers his broad acres by the thousand. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 1103 Farmersburg Twp. -- John Palas, farmer, postoffice St. Olof, son of Jacob and Eliza (Wiegman) Palas, natives of Germany, was born in the country on Oct. 14, 1831. He was educated in Germany, and came to the United States in 1855. He at once engaged in farming and now owns 710 acres of good land, and lives on section 30; his farm is nearly all well improved, and he is raising fine stock as a specialty, and owns several choice breeds. In 1858 he married Carolina, daughter of Frederick Prust, a native of Germany, by whom he had three children - John, born Dec. 9, 1859; Mary (deceased), born Dec. 8, 1861; William, Jan. 29, 1864. Mrs. Carolina Palas died Feb. 6, 1864, and in June, 1864 Mr. Palas married Carolina, daughter of George and Mary (Plotz) Voss, natives of Germany. By this union there are ten children - Bertha, June 25, 1865; Carolina, July 1, 1866 (deceased); Ida, born July 17, 1868; Anna, Feb. 14, 1870 (deceased); Henry, Nov. 24, 1871; Fritz, July 17, 1873; Louis, July 25, 1875; Louisa, Jan. 19, 1877; Herman, Apr. 25, 1879, and Arthur, May 19, 1881. Mr. Palas and family are members of the Lutheran church. He votes the Republican ticket. Mr. Palas came to Clayton County in limited circumstances, having but $25 to call his own. By hard work and untiring perserverance he has accumulated a fine property and home. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 780 Boardman Twp. -- A. V. Palmer was born in Pennsylvania on May 23, 1851. He came to Clayton County in September, 1864. He has been principally engaged in the livery business and in staging since his arrival here. He has fifty miles of staging from West Union to Postville by way of Elkader. He has recently purchased a nice houseon section 17, on the Elkader and West Union road. He was married to Emma Nidlock on Aug. 24, 1875. She was born in Allamakee County, Ia., June 23, 1851. They have three children--Sophrona, born July 3, 1876; Emmet LeRoy, Nov. 2, 1878, and Margaret Luella, born Apr. 20, 1881. In politics Mr. Palmer is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 666 Sperry Twp. -- Smith Pardee was born in New Haven, Conn., Oct. 27, 1816. His father was born in New Hartford, Conn., in 1782; he married Lucy Dickerman, who was born in New Haven, Conn. The died in 1850, in Michigan. The subject of this record removed to Ohio with his parents at an early day, and remained with them until he was seventeen years old. He then served a two years' apprenticeship at the carpenter and joiner's trade, and in 1836 he went to Michigan. In 1851 he located in Clayton County, Ia. Since his residence here he has been engaged in farming and wagon-making. He has been twice married, first on Aug. 15, 1843, to Ann Davis, who died in 1861, having been the mother of two children - Susan, now the wife of David T. Ring, resides in Faribault County, Minn., and Elias F.,living on the old hoemstead in Sperry Township. Mr. Pardee's second marriage occurred on June 3, 1863, to Mrs. Mary Josephine Swift, , by whom he has one child - Isaac W., born March 27, 1864. Mrs. M. J. Pardee was born in Benton, Lafayette County, Wis., Dec. 22, 1832; she was a daughter of Dennis Murphy and Eliza, nee Bratherton. The former was born in Ireland about 1802, and emigrated to America in an early day, settling in Wisconsin in 1827. He was elected representative of LaFayette County in the Legislature several terms. He died in Benton, Wis., in 1859. He served in the war of 1812. Mrs. M. J. Pardee was married in 1849 to Thomas Swift, by whom she had one child - James M., born May 12, 1850; he now resides in Smith County, Kan. Mr. Pardee owns a fine farm in Sperry Township, and is one of the prominent citizens of that place. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 1103-1104 Boardman Twp. -- Luther Patch was born in Chesterfield, Hampshire County, Mass., Sept. 21, 1799. He was the son of Thomas Patch, of Chesterfield, and was the fifth of eleven children. He lived at Chesterfield until his eighteenth year, attending the common schools of the village; and then he went to Montgomery County, N.Y. Here he remained three years, working at various employments, and in September, 1819, he was married to Elizabeth Hatter, of Montgomery County. At the age of twenty-one he removed to Ontario County, where he remained four years. From here he went to Niagara County, where he took a claim and ran a boat on the Erie Canal. Mr. Patch, at the time he was married, took the whole of his wife's family, and on his trip to the western part of the State he was on the boat that took the first merchandise to Chicago on the Erie Canal. From Niagara County Mr. Patch went to Port Gibson, Ontario County. In 1837 the family came to Cassville, Wis., Mr. Patch having preceded them one year. In 1840 they all removed to Prairie du Chien, where he followed farming two years. He then crossed the river into Clayton County, and rented the lower ferry, where McGregor now is. He then bought the upper ferry, which he kept four years. Mr. Patch then moved to St. Anthony Falls, Minn. Thence he went to Crow Wing. The following year, 1848, he went to California, into the mines. He remained in California ten years, and then came back to Clayton County, to the farm of his son-in-law, Samuel Murdock. They then lived at Garnavillo, and in March, 1876, they all moved to Elkader, where Mr. Patch still resides with Judge Murdock, at the age of eighty-three years. Mr. Patch is his various occupations has met with some strange coincidents, one of which is the following: While he was captain of a boat on the canal in New York, a man took passage with him who was taking six tons of goods with which he was to start a store at Fort Dearborn, afterward Chicago. This was the first store there except that of an army sutler. The man tried to persuade Mr. Patch to come West and locate with him. Mr. Patch, of course, knew nothing of the great Garden City of to-day, and declined the offer. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 666-667 Wagner Twp. -- Aaron Patterson was born in Ohio, Oct. 25, 1840, son of John and Jane (Green) Patterson. He came to Iowa with his parents in 1850, and was educated in the district schools of Wagner Township. In March, 1860, he went to Pike's Peak, returning July of the same year. He was married Oct. 6, 1861, to Fannie Christ, of Ohio, born July 12, 1838. They have three children - Alvin H., born Sept. 12, 1863; Stella, July 10, 1871, and Elsa E., Oct. 4, 1876. Mr. Patterson has followed farming all his life, and now lives on a farm on section 28. He has altogether 465 acres of good land. Politically he is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 1139-40 Wagner Twp. -- Ezra Patterson was born in Clayton County, Ia., July 9, 1853, son of John and Jane Patterson. He attended the district schools, and finished his education in Elkader. While a youth he assisted upon his father's farm, and when he arrived at manhood's estate traveled a great deal in different parts of the country, visiting the principal cities of the East, and attending the centennial exhibition in 1876. Upon the death of his father he succeeded to the homestead farm in Wagner Township, section 33. The place comprises 200 acres of fine land, and is adorned with a beautiful residence surrounded with shade and ornamental trees, etc. On June 9, 1878, he was married to Maria S. Beamer, of West Union, Ia., born Sept. 14, 1855, daughter of David and Sophia (Hans) Beamer. They have one child - Ezra David, born May 12, 1881. Mr. Patterson is the youngest of a large family of brothers and sisters, most of whom live in the immediate neighborhood. In politics he is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 1140 Wagner Twp. -- Henry S. Patterson was born June 5, 1851, son of Wesley and Lucy Ann (Shuman) Patterson. He was born and raised in Wagner Township, attending the public schools, and finishing his education at Elkader. He followed farming with his father until twenty-one years old, when he married, Dec. 18, 1872, Sarah E. Shelhamer, born Jan. 1, 1850, daughter of Jesse B. and Emeline (Pierce) Shelhamer. He moved immediately after his marriage onto his farm of 200 acres on sections 17 and 20. Here he has since resided, and about six years since erected a fine, commodious residence and good out-buildings on section 20. They have two children - Alice J., born March 18, 1877, and Susan A., born March 20, 1880. He has been Township Clerk, Road Supervisor, School Director, and is now Secretary of the School Board. Mr. and Mrs. Patterson are members of the United Brethren church. He is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 1140 Wagner Twp. -- John R. Patterson was born in Harrison County, O., March 30, 1836, son of John and Jane (Graham) Patterson. He attended school both in Ohio and Clayton County, Ia., to which place his parents moved when he was fourteen years old. He worked on his father's farm till he was twenty-two. He then bought eighty acres on sections 28 and 29, where he lived until 1867. He went in 1860 to Pike's Peak, returning the same year. He then bought a farm in the southern part of the State, and removed thither, remaining one summer. Removed again to Fayette County, where he remained nearly a year, and then visited his old home in Ohio. In the fall of 1866 he came West again, and purchased the farm on which he now resides, in Wagner Township, section 32. His farm here comprises 200 acres, and he owns other land, making altogether 320 acres. His farm is well improved, and is one of the most valuable in the township. He was first married June 15, 1862, to Catharine Christ, of Ohio. By this union were four children, one living - Clarence Edgar. William B., Martha Ann, and Oscar C. died in infancy. Mrs. Patterson died Feb. 14, 1863. June 15, 1865, he again married, Catharine Josephine Barnhouse, born in Ohio. They have had six children, four living - David E., Lulu M., Ira D.S. and Myrtle J. Cora M., and John M. died in infancy. He has been Township Trustee, Constable, School Director, etc. In politics he is a Republican. P.O. Elkader. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 1139 Wagner Twp. -- William Patterson was born in Harrison County, Ohio, Dec. 18, 1826, son of John and Jane (Graham) Patterson. He was educated in Ohio. In 1847 moved to Jackson County, Iowa, and remained one winter, and in spring of 1848 located on section 29, Wagner Township this county, entering 240 acres, most of it on section 29. He was one of the pioneers of the town, and in fact of the county, there being but little settlement or improvement here then. He has built up out of the wilderness one of the finest farms in the county. He has a beautiful residence in place of the old log cabin, and a farm under a fine state of cultivation, and supplied with good out-buildings. He was married March 6, 1845, in Ohio, to Miss Susan Killinger, of Ohio, born in Wayne County, March 14, 1845. They have had twelve children - Elizabeth Jane, John Wesley, Rosalia, Sarah Ann, Katie, Australia, Marietta, Henrietta, William L., Ida, Lucy A. and Josephine Grant. Elizath, John, Henrietta, Marietta and Ida died in infancy. Both are members of the U.B. church. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 1138-39 Marion Twp. -- James Paulson (or Brorby) was born in the town of Hadeland, near Christiana, Norway, March 7, 1830. He came to America in 1851, landing at New York, and came at once to Clayton County, and settled on section 4, Marion Township. He bought 160 acres, and has since added to his original purchase until he now owns 320 acres of highly improved land. He raises grain and stock of all kinds, and is making farming a financial success. He was married to Doratha Johnston, Jan. 14, 1856. She died June 18, 1859. He was again married on April 8, 1868 to Martha E. Kjorven. She is a native of Norway, born March 18, 1845. Six children have been born unto them - Josephine D., born March 26, 1870; Amelia, Sept. 2, 1871; Engeborg L., July 15, 1873; Paulina S., Oct. 7, 1877; Eliza M., Oct. 7, 1879; and Anna C., Nov. 14, 1881. Mr. Paulson is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran Church. In politics is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 934-935 Marion Twp. -- Jacob Paulson (or Borby) was born in Hadeland, Norway, April 27, 1835. The family came to America in 1851, and located in Marion Township, this county. The father died in 1853, the mother in 1854. They are buried in the Clermont Cemetery. The subject of this memoir was married in 1861 to Olena M. Rulland, who was born in Norway, Nov. 5, 1844. Eleven children have blessed this union, nine living - Paul, born Aug. 6, 1862, is clerking in Postville; Ingeborg Mathilde, July 20, 1864; Anna Marie, Nov. 7, 1866; Martin Johannes, March 28, 1870; Sven Julian, Nov. 4, 1871; Julia Louise, Jan. 20, 1875; Josephena Theodora, Oct. 7, 1876; Joseph, Dec. 1, 1878, and L. Emelia, Jan. 10, 1881. The family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church. Mr. Paulson is a Republican. He owns a highly cultivated farm of 220 acres in Marion Township. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 935 Mendon Twp. -- Amos Pearsall, manufacturer of fine carriages, is one of the prominent business men of McGregor, Ia., and was born in Chenango County, N.Y., on the 14th day of January, 1822, a son of Amos H. and Clarissa (Nichols) Pearsall. He was reared on his father's farm until he was fourteen years of age, when he began to learn the trade of a saddler, and subsequently was employed on the road selling goods, traveling extensively through the Southen States. In 1849 he married Amelia Church, a daughter of Billings Church, of Chenango County, N.Y., and immediately afterward emigrated to Trumbull Co., O. He embarked in the jewelry business in company with L. F. Emmons, employing from twelve to fifteen men on the road selling goods. He remained there some four or five years, when he disposed of his share of the business to Mr. Emmons and removed to Platteville, Wis., where he established a livery and stage line between Galena and Prairie du Chien. In the spring of 1856 he came to McGregor, where he engaged in the livery business until 1871; then for nine years was one of the firm of G. Hawley & Co., manufacturers of fine carriages. Since 1880 the firm has been A. Pearsall & Son. They have a large trade and make fine goods. They own and occupy a large four-story building. Mr. and Mrs. Pearsall are the parents of four children--George E., Cornelia J., Charles A. and Clara N. Mr. Pearsall is a member of the Masonic fraternity, Bezer Lodge, of McGregor. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p.998-999 Cass Twp. -- A. J. Pease, merchant, Strawberry Point, was born Dec. 1830, in Weston Vt. and was a son of Ambrose and Lucy P. Pease. He received a practical business education in his native place and in 1851 went to Akron, O., where he clerked in a mercantile store for one year and a half, then went to Logansport, Ind., engaging in the same occupation there. In January, 1855, he went to Dubuque, Ia. clerked there three years, thence to Masonville, Ia., where he embarked in the mercantile business, returning to Dubuque six years later. In January, 1877, he established his present business in Strawberry Point, where he has been very successful financially. He was married to Susan Cragin, Sept. 19, 1854, who died may 30, 1876, and on Oct. 26, 1879 married Julia Boardman. Mr. Pease is a member of the A. O. U. W. lodge. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 700 Mallory Twp. -- Douglas Peck, one of the very earliest settlers of Clayton County, was born in New York, Jan. 7, 1821, and was a son of Palmer and Clarissa H. Peck, nee Douglas, natives of New London County, Conn. They died in New York State, where they located in an early day. The subject of this memoir came to Iowa in 1841, and finding the State very new he took his trusty rifle and with it, for twelve years, he probably killed more bears, wolves, deer and wild turkeys than any man in this part of the States; the stories of his excursions, hunts and fights with panthers and bear would fill a good sized volume with interest. In 1848 he married Catherine Gillett, who died in 1856, and in 1858 he married Mary, daugher of Abraham and Margaret (Merriman) Hought, natives of Fayette County, Penn., where Abraham died. Margaret is now living with Mr. Peck's family. By this union there are seven children--Richard William, born Aug. 11, 1859; Albert D. born Oct. 22, 1861 (deceased); Mary C. born July 25, 1864; Clarissa, Born Jan. 25, 1867; Margaret, born Sept. 28, 1868; Samuel Isaac, born May 10, 1874; Nancy Bell, born Feb. 1, 1876. Mrs. Peck is a member of the United Brethren Church. Mr. Peck votes an independent ticket. He owns 120 acres of and on section 21, which is finely improved. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 923-924 Cox Creek Township -- George S. Peck was born in Erie County, O., on May 10, 1822. His parents, Charles and Mary (Barnham) Peck, were natives of Fairfield County, Conn., and died in the State of Ohio. He was married on the 9th of April, 1851, to Nancy E. Scovel, of Jo Daviess County, Ill. She was a daughter of Benjamin F. and Pamelia Scovel, nee Journey. Ten children have blessed this union, viz.: Mary E., born Jan. 10, 1852, married William J. Hawthorne, and resides at Volga City; Sarah E. (deceased), born Oct. 19, 1855; Clara P., born June 20, 1858, is the wife of Edward Alderson, of Strawberry Point; Maria E. (deceased), born Apr. 16, 1861; Nellie K., born May 8, 1864; George S., Feb. 15, 1867; Ella M., July 1, 1870, Alice T., Nov. 26, 1873, and Barnum and Amorette (twins), born Sept. 7, 1877; the latter is deceased. The subject of this memoir has been elected to all the township offices, and has discharged his duties in every instance with credit to himself and justice to the people. He is the present Justice of the Peace and has been Postmaster over twenty years. He is a Republican in politics, and has always taken an active interest in educational matters. He owns a finely cultivated farm of 140 acres in Cox Creek Township, containing many excellent improvements. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 750-751 Mallory Twp. -- Sameul D. Peck, son of Palmer and Clarissa Peck, nee Douglas natives of Limetown, Conn.; was born in West Bloomfield, Ontario County, N.Y., Jun 29, 1817. He was educated there, and in 1836 came to Iowa, being on of the very first settlers of Clayton County. He selected Mallory Township as the scene of his furture labors, settling on Turkey River at Peck's Ferry. He built and run the first flat boat across the Turkey River at that point. He resided there twenty-two years, then purchased his present farm of 200 acres on section 33, He has made many excellent improvements on the land, and owns one of the finest residences in the county, situated in a beautiful grove. He was married in 1844 to Nancy W., daughter of David and Ruth (Collins) Moreland, natives of Pennsylvania, who emigrated to Iowa in 1839, and died here. Eight children have blessed this union, viz.; Ann Elizabeth, born Feb. 13, 1845, married G. F. Potts of Colesburg, Ia.; Ruth Ellen born Sept. 23, 1847, is the widow of T. M. Flanniken, of Rockford, Ill.; Martha C. born March 16, 1850, wife of E. T. Melvin, of Minnesota; Sarah Frances, born Aug. 14, 1852, is now Mrs. Joel Hewitt, of Canton, Da.; Florence, born May 25, 1857, married Frank Steadman, of Colony Township, Ia.; Palmer D., born Dec. 12, 1860; Elmer E., Dec. 11, 1863, and Derossa D., Feb. 13, 1865. Mr. Peck is a member of the Congregational church. He has been active in politics, and has been elected to many of the township offices, having been Treasurer several years. He has always discharged his duties faithfully and efficiently. He votes the Democratic ticket. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 923 Cox Creek Township -- Adolph Peick, lumber dealer, contractor and builder, Littleport, was born in Hanover, Germany, Nov. 3, 1828, son of Christian and Cecilia (Curtscue) Peick, the former a native of Hanover, Germany,died in 1840; the latter born in Fontainebleau, France, died in 1842. Adolph was educated in his native country, and there learned the trade of a glazier, which he followed six years. He emigrated to the United States in 1848, and resided in Baltimore, Md., five years, engaged in several branches of business, and in 1854 came to Clayton County. He married in 1852 to Amelia, daughter of Phillip and Christina Frisler, nee Seth, natives of Hesse, Germany. Mrs. Peick was also born there, Dec. 25, 1819. To them have been born eight children—Sophia, born Oct. 23, 1853, married Henry Bust; Amelia, born March 12, 1855, died in 1863; Adolph and Frederick, twins, were born Aug. 18, 1857, both now married and residing in this State; Maria and Christian, twins, were born June 17, 1859 (the latter died in infancy and the former married Christian Semp, of Sheridan County, Kan.); Christian, born Dec. 25, 1861, and Louisa, March 12, 1864. Mr. Peick enlisted in 1861 in the three months' service, Pioneer Company A, and the same year re- enlisted in Company G, Sixteenth Regiment Iowa Volunteers, for three years. He was wounded at the battle of Inca on Sept. 19, 1862, by a cannon ball sliver in the head, a musket ball in the shoulder and one in the knee. He was taken to the hospital, but refused to die. He was discharged Feb. 17, 1863, at Jefferson Barracks, St. Louis. He is a Republican in his political sentiments, and has held the office of Justice of the Peace for the past two years. He is classed with the representative citizens of Clayton County, and merits and receives the confidence and respect of his fellow citizens. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 751-752 Cox Creek Township -- Frederick Peick, merchant and grain and stock dealer, Littleport, was born in Germany, Nov. 18, 1822. His parents were Christian and Cecelia (Curtscue) Peick, the former a native of Hanover, Germany, the latter of Fontainebleau, France. They died in Germany, The subject of this memoir was educated in the land of his birth, and there learned the carpenter's and piano- maker's trades, which he followed for thirteen years in Paris and other cities of Europe. He came to the United States in 1849, working five years in Baltimore, and locating in Clayton County, in 1854. He joined the "community" which settled in Volga Township, and worked at the carpenter's trade and farming four years, then came to Littleport. He purchased a farm here, and also engaged in the mercantile business, disposing of the latter three years later. He was then employed by the Government as carpenter at St. Louis and Little Rock one year and a half. Since that time has engaged in the mercantile business in Littleport. Mr. Peick has been twice married, first in 1848, to Dorta, daughter of Gottlieb and Mary Gartener, natives of Hanover, Germany. Mrs. Peick died, having been the mother of two children—Mary, born March 8, 1850, married John Meyer, and Christian, born Aug. 8, 1853, died July 12, 1880. For his second wife Mr. Peick married Mrs. Sophia Wagoner, by whom he has had three children— Carl, born Jan. 3, 1870; William, Jan. 5, 1880, and Sophia, in March, 1881. Mrs. Peick had two children by her first husband, viz.: Minna, born Oct. 9, 1854, married John Liddy, and Fred, born in 1860, is now attending college. Mr. Peick has held the office of Township Supervisor one year, and that of Postmaster fifteen years. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 751 Sperry Twp. -- William A. Penfield was born in Jefferson, Scholharie County, N.Y., Nov. 9, 1819. When he was but five years old his parents removed to the backwoods of Ohio, and settled in the township of Penfield, Lorain County. He remained at home, assisting his father on the farm, until he attained his majority, when he learned the carpenter's trade. He was married in Medina County, O., to Miss Sarah L. Chapman, Jan. 15, 1845, who died Aug. 31, 1867, after an ilness of nearly five years. He was married to his present wife, Miss Lucy A. Chapman, in Medina County, O. They have one child - Alta A., born July 26, 1869. On Nov. 20, 1854, Mr. Penfield emigrated to Iowa, and settled in Sperry Township on a farm. Being possessed of many of those qualitieswhich eminently fitted him for public positions, he has been elected to many offices of trust. He has been Justice of the Peace for many years, was the first to hold the office of notary public, having been sworn into that office in 1860 by Hon. Thos. Updegraff, who was then County Clerk, and is now a member of Congress. In the fall of 1877 Mr. Penfield was elected Coroner of Clayton County, and still holds that office. He takes a deep interest in all educational matters, and has been Secretary of all the school boards. He is now serving his fifth year as Township Clerk. He held the office of Assessor two terms. He was appointed enumerator of the census for his district in June, 1880. He is classed among the most respected and popular men of Clayton County. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 1104-1105 Lodomillo Twp. -- John Peter was born in Union County, Pa., May 19, 1827. His parents were Henry and Elizabeth (Presler) Peter, natives also of the Keystone State. They had a family of eight children, of whom John was the third child and second son. His mother died when he was thirteen years old, and he assisted his father to support the family until he was nineteen years, when he began to work for himself. He was married in Mifflin County, Pa., to Mary A. E. Stout on March 6, 1850. She was born in Cumberland County, Pa., and was a daughter of George W. and Elizabeth (Wagner) Stout, of Pennsylvania. In the fall of 1853 Mr. and Mrs. Peter came to Iowa, and settled in Cox Creek Township, where they remained until 1867, when they removed to their present farm on section 21, Lodomillo Township. They have had twelve children, ten living--George H., a practicing physician at Edgewood; Emma, now Mrs. Simeon Gilmore; Sibbie V., engaged in teaching school; Stella, John A., Andrew J., William A., Warren T., Eva M. and Earnest V. Mr. Peter owns a farm of 203 acres, all under cultivation except thirty acres of timber. He has made excellent improvements on his farm, which is one of the finest in this section. In 1864 he enlisted in Company K., First Iowa Cavalry, and served until the close of the war. He has held various public offices. He was County Supervisor two years, and Township Treasurer four years in Cox Creek Township, and has held the latter office in Lodomillo Township seven years. In politics he is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 899 Highland Twp. -- Daniel Peterman, farmer, section 17, Highland Township, was born in Washington County, Pa., June 8, 1826. His parents were John and Rebecca (Eller) Peterman; they were members of the Free-Will Baptist church. Their family consisted of ten children, nine living. Daniel was the second son, and when some four years of age he moved with his parents to Ripley County, Ind. When fifteen he began to run on the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, and afterward worked in the lead mines, at Galena, Ill., and Pedler's Creek, Ill., and following the carpenter's trade, until his marriage to Miss Mary Sutton, Jan. 1, 1851. She was born in Ripley County, Ind. Her parents were Joseph and Rebecca (Oliver) Sutton. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. In 1853 Mr. Peterman came to Clayton County, Ia., and entered a piece of land near Elkport, and in 1856 settled on his present farm in Highland Township. He and wife have had five sons and three daughters, viz.: Josephine, John W., Rebecca, Andrew M., Martha, Solomon, Mary J. and Henry. Their grandchild, Harmon B. Peterman, also resides with them. Mr. Peterman owns a fine farm of 280 acres, 200 under good cultivation. In politics he was formerly a Republican, but for the past two years has been a Greenback man. Mr. Peterman is one of the enterprising representative farmers and stock-raisers of Clayton County, where he has lived since the spring of 1856. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 846 Lodomillo Twp. -- George H. Peters, M.D., was born in Clarion County, Penn., July 13, 1853, and was a son of John Peters and Marion, nee Stout, natives also of the Keystone State. When he was about two years old, his parents came to Clayton County, Iowa, and settled on a farm. He assisted on the farm and attended the district school, also two terms at the Collegiate Institute, at Wilton, Iowa. During this time taught school three terms, and when twenty years old went to Wilton and studied medicine under Drs. Witham and Cooling, one year. He then went to Ohio and attended Miami Medical College, at Cincinnati, one year, teaching school the following summer and fall in Ohio. He studied under Dr. Chase, of Elkader, Iowa, one year, then entered the Rush Medical College of Chicago, from which he graduated in February, 1876. He immediately begun the practice of his profession in Edgewood, where he has since resided, devoting all his time and talents to his calling, and has met with good success. He is a member of Lodge No. 130, A.F. & A.M., at Strawberry Point, and in politics is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 899-900 Marion Twp. -- Albert L. Peterson was born in Christiana, Norway, June 13, 1848. When seven years of age his parents emigrated to America, first living in Prairie Du Chien. In the fall of 1857 they removed to Clayton County. They purchased land in Marion Township, where our subject spent his youth and received his education. He learned the trade of carpenter from his father, which business he now follows, besides conducting a small farm. He is now a Justice of the Peace, having been elected four years since. He was married July 23, 1869, to Miss Bertha K. Nelson. They have six children living - Peter N., Martin L., Caroline, Albertina, Lovina and Gustav Adolph. Adolph L. Died in infancy. Mr. And Mrs. Peterson are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church. Politics, Republican. Postoffice, St. Olaf. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 935 Sperry Twp. -- George Pfranger was born in Germany March 26, 1845, and in 1861 he emigrated to America. He landed in New York, where he enlisted in the One Hundred and Sixty-second New York Volunteer Infantry, and served two years, most of the time under General Banks in Louisiana, and was with him at the defeat at Red River. He was wounded at Pleasant Hill, received two shots in the arm, and was taken prisoner by Taylor and sent to the rebel prison at Pleasant Hill. Ten weeks later he was paroled and went to New Orleans, thence to St. Louis, where he was discharged Jan. 4, 1864. He then went to New York, and from there to Minnesota, thence to Iowa, where he spent one year in the Seminary. He was married to Miss L. Jennings Nov. 23, 1869. They had two children - Martha, born Oct. 12, 1870, and Theodore, Feb. 2, 1873. Mrs. Pfranger met with an accident which resulted in her death. While burning brush, not far from the house, her clothing caught fire, and before assistance could reach her she was burned to death. Mr. Pfranger was again married on March 2, 1875, to Christina Eppler, who was born in Germany in October, 1845. They have one child - Caroline, born Sept. 14, 1880. Mr. Pfranger has held the offices of School Director and Road Supervisor of his township. In politics he is a Republican. He belongs to the Lutheran church. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 1105 Cass Twp. -- B. W. Phelps, grain merchant, was born in Chautauqua County, N.Y., Oct. 5, 1822, and was a son of Porter and Jerusha Phelps, natives of the Green Mountain State. He was reared on a farm, and received a common-school education. When twenty-two years of age he began to work as a farm laborer, and was employed on twenty-two different farms in New York. In 1854 he came west, reached Dubuque, Iowa, and from there walked to Strawberry Point. He purchased a farm of 660 acres in Cass Township, which he sold to A. Sloan in September, 1855, and returned to his native State, where he remained two years, then came again to Clayton County. He rented the farm which he had bought when he first came to the county, and cultived it two years, then removed into the town of Strawberry Point. In partnership with B. Bushee he established a butcher shop, and also handled butter and eggs. They ran a line of teams from McGregor to this place, carrying their produce to and from the markets. Mr. Philps remained in this business two years, and in August, 1862, enlisted in the United States army, being one of the four men that raised a company from this place, the other three being W. D. Crook, C. P. Heath, and Henry Howard. They drew straws to see who should fill the respective offices, Mr. Phelps being Orderly Sergeant, Mr. Heath First Lieutenant, an Mr. Howard Second Lieutenant. The latter was killed at the Battle of Black River, and Mr. Phelps was chosen Second Lieutenant, and afterward First Lieutenant, in which position he served until August 1864, when he resigned and returned to Strawberry Point. Being ill and feeble from exposure, he did not engage in active business for two years, then bought a farm in Delaware County, which he still owns. He also purchased a farm in this county, which he cultivated eight or nine years, and since then has lived in Strawberry Point. He was married on Sept. 10, 1846, to Louisa Miller, who died May 14, 1859, leaving two children--Forest J. and Charley A. He was again married on Sept. 14, 1861, to Lina Gunnung. They have four children--Mary D., Louie, Roy and Jessie. Mr. Phelps is a Mason, and in politics is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 700-01 Sperry Twp. -- Orrin A. Phillips was born in Crawford County, Pa., March 23, 1838, and was the son of Welcome A. and Lucy Ann (Gear) Phillips. His father was a mechanic by trade. When Orrin was four years of age, he removed with his parents to Elgin, Ill. Here he resided until he was sixteen years of age, attending school the most of the time. In 1854 he removed with his parents to Clayton County, Iowa, settling in what is now Volga City. His parents still reside in Volga City. In 1862 he enlisted in the First Iowa Cavalry, Company K. He served actively in Arkansas and Missourion scouting duty, and in the Red River expedition under General Banks. Mr. Phillips became a veteran in 1864, and served till the close of the war, being mustered out in February, 1866. He then returned to Volga City, and pursued various occupations unti 1870, when he bought the farm of L. Davis, on section 11. He has a fine farm of 120 acres, about eighty of which are under cultivation. Mr. Phillips was married Feb. 20, 1870, to Keziah Bissell, of Volga City. They have two children - Minnie and Leon. Mr. Phillips is a Mason, and politically is a Republican. He has served as Constable, but has made it a rule never to seek office. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 1105-1106 Elk Twp. -- John Pilkington is a native of Lancashire, England, born March 1, 1825. He left his native county in 1848 for Australia, and remained there until February, 1852, when he returned to England, and in March, 1853, came to the United States. He spent about two years in Philadelphia and Pittsburg, Pa., then came West stopping one year in Peoria, Ill. From there he went to New Orleans, La., and in 1858 settled in Clayton County. He has traveled quite extensively, and has visited many of the principal cities of the world. In 1865 he enlisted in the One Hundred and Fifty-fifth Illinois Infantry Volunteers, and served until the close of the war. Upon leaving the service he returned to Clayton County, and settled on his present farm of 171 acres on section 2 and 11, Elk Township. His land is under excellent cultivation, and thoroughly stocked. In connection with farming he is engaged in the manufacture of brick, and made the first brick in the township in 1871. He has been twice married, first in England, on June 8, 1845, to Mary Dickinson, who died in Pennsylvania in 1854, having been the mother of five children, viz.: Robert, born April 24, 1846, died on a voyage to Australia in 1848; Thomas, born April 29, 1848, on the sea, died in 1849 in Australia; Rachel, born April 28, 1850, died on the Atlantic Ocean in 1853; Ellen, born Sept. 26, 1852, died in 1854; and John born Nov. 28, 1854, died in December of that year. Mr. Pilkington was again married on April 21, 1856, to Elizabeth Stewart, who was born in Pennsylvania, May 26, 1832. Five children have been born unto them -F.T., born May 26, 1858; Mary, born Sept. 22, 1860, died Aug. 15, 1864; R. A. born Aug. 6, 1862; W. J., Aug. 4, 1868; and C. S., Dec. 14, 1871. Mr. Pilkington has held the office of Justice of the Peace four years, and other public positions of trust. He votes the Republican ticket. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 763-764 Grand Meadow Twp. -- James M. Pixler was born in Fayette County, Pa., Jan. 25, 1822. He came to Iowa in 1850, landing at McGregor on April 23. He moved from there to Farmersburg, where he remained three years, then came to Grand Meadow Township. He sttled on section 23, on a farm of 160 acres, which he had previously purchased. He now owns 200 acres of finely cultivated land. He was married to Eliza Fry on March 26, 1846. She was born in Huntingdon County, Pa., March 11, 1824. They are the parents of the following named children--Sarah A. (now Mrs. Richard Larkin), Melissa M., Mary M. (now Mrs. Brown Miller), Elizabeth E., Clara (now Mrs. Charles Horrocks), George W., and Emma L. Mr. Pixler has held various local offices of trust, among them those of Township Assessor and Trustee. He is a consistent member of the Baptist church. In politics he is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 832 Lodomillo Twp. -- Nathan Gould Platt was born in Greenfield, Huron County, Ohio, Feb. 23, 1829, and was a son of Levi and Abigail (Bodman) Platt, the former a native of Connecticut, the later of New York. They had a family of nine children, Nathan being the third child and second son. He attended the common and select schools, also the academy at Norwalk, until twenty-one years old, when he went to Allen County, Ohio, purchased land and remained until the fall of 1852, then came to Iowa. He spent the winter in La Motte, Jackson County and in the spring of 1853, bought his present farm in section 27, Lodomillo Township. He was married Oct. 6, 1854, to Harriet, daughter of Selden and Florina (Blackman) Bush, natives of New York. Mrs. Platt died July 24, 1855. He was again married, March 6, 1856, to Margaret W. Goodell, who was born in Vermont, and was a daughter of William and Narcissa (Buxton) Goodell. They had five children--Laverne De Forrest, married Cora Kratzer; Edward G.; Abbie N., born July 11, 1863, died April 13, 1878; Cynthia G., and Hattie L. Mrs. Margaret Platt died Sept. 10, 1877. Mr. Platt owns 500 acres of land, 250 under excellent cultivation. He has a fine nursery on his farm where he raises fruit and ornamental trees, shrubbery, etc., for sale. He has held various township offices of trust, and in politics is a Republican, is also a staunch temperance man, and a member of the Congregational church. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 900 Lodomillo Twp. -- William P. Pollard was born in Dorchester, Grafton County, N.H., Sept. 4, 1823. His father, David Pollard, was born in 1776, and was among the first to settle in the forests of New Hampshire. He was a blacksmith by trade, and manufactured knives and forks, etc., by hand. His wife, Sarah Pollard, nee Gale, was a native of New Hampshire. They had a family of eighteen children, of whom fourteen lived to be adults. William lived on his father's farm until his fifteenth year, when the latter became insolvent, and he and his brothers supported the family, buying a farm, which they paid for on time. When seventeen years old he began to work on the Northern New Hampshire Railroad, and engaged in overseeing different roads in New Hampshire and Pennsylvania, and helped lay the first rails out of Burlington, N. H. In 1854 he came West, arriving in Clayton County May 6 of that year. He resided in Lodomillo Township until 1870, then removed to Linn County, Ia.; returning to Lodomillo Township two seasons later. He was married in New York in 1852, to Diana Walton, who was born in Ithica, that State. They have had four children--Ada, Walter, Lyle A. and Edna D. Mr. Pollard owns a finely cultivated farm on section 32, and is one of the enterprising farmers of the county. In politics he is a Republican, and is a member of the Temple of Honor, and Good Templar's societies. He has held various offices of trust, and has been Justice of the Peace for the past twenty years. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 900-901 Monona Twp. -- Rev. Moses Polley was born in the town of Bowdoin, Lincoln County, Maine, on Feb. 14, 1816, and was a son of Ashel and Mary Polley, nee Stafford, likewise natives of Maine. His father in his early years led a sea- faring life, and afterward engaged in the lumber traffic and in farming. The parents died in their native State after a long and useful life. The subject of this memoir received his early education in his native State, and after leaving school engaged in milling on the Penobscot River. He was married on May 19, 1841, to Hannah C. Ireland, who was born in Penobscot County, Maine, Aug. 14, 1821. Five children have blessed this union--Daniel W., who enlisted in the Union service in the Twenty-seventh Iowa Volunteer Infantry, and officiated with his regiment in the North, as guard to a paymaster while paying off Indians, after which he was sent to the South, and there contracted a disease from which he died April 7, 1865, in Monona, Iowa; John F., a graduate of, and now a teacher in the Iowa State University, since which he has accepted the position of principal draughtsman in the Surveyor General's office, at Helena, Mont; Osbert, and two others deceased. Mr. Polley was ordained as a minister in the Christian church in 1840, and in the summer of 1842 was sent to Hampton Falls, N.H., in charge of the Christian church at that place. He preached in various localities in that State until 1857, when he came to Iowa. Prior to locating in Clayton County he preached in Fayette and Allamakee Counties, and in 1864 he moved to Monona, where he often preaches and still resides. He is a man of superior intellectual endownments, and fine oratorical powers. He is widely known throughout the country, and is called for far and near, to administer to dying souls, and to perform the marriage ceremony. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882 p. 1058-1059 Highland Twp. -- Thomas Pollock, farmer, section 8, Highland Township, was born in Eaglesham, Renfrewshire, Scotland, July 26, 1832. His parents were John and Mary (Howie) Pollock, who had a family of three children. Thomas lost his parents when very small, and he went to live with his aunt at Eggleston, Scotland, where he attended school and followed gardening until eighteen years old. He then worked in the city of Glasgow, Scotland, until twenty-three, when he came alone to the United States, landing in New York. He farmed in Dundee Township, Kane County, Ill., one year, and in May, 1856, came to Clayton County, Iowa, where he has since remained. He was married to Miss Hellen Hood, in March 1859. She was born in the parish Kingoldrum, Forforshire, Scotland. Her parents were Thomas and Martha (McKee) Hood. Mrs. Pollock came to America in 1855. Mr. and Mrs. Pollock have had four children, two living, viz.: Miss Mary I. and William H. Pollock. Mr. Pollock owns 120 acres of land in section 8, Highland Township, where he and family reside. He grows grain and raises stock for the market. In politics he is a Republican. He is one of the enterprising and resprentative men and farmers of Clayton County, with which he has been identified since May, 1856. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 846-847 Cox Creek Twp. -- Jacob Ponsor was born in Germany, Jan. 6, 1819, and was a son of John and Kate (Gabel) Ponsor, of German nativity. His mother died in 1843. Jacob learned the tailor's trade in the land of his birth, which he followed thirty-six years in France and America. He emigrated to Clayton County at an early day, and was one of the original founders of the colony of Communia, in which he took an active interest for eight years, when the organization disbanded. He settled on his present farm in Cox Crek Township, on Sept. 13, 1870. It consistes of 160 acres of well improved land, and is one of the finest farms in this section of the State. His marriage occurred in 1847, to Eliza Coleman, whose parents, William and Mary (Jugixbulg) Coleman, were natives of Germany. They are the parents of the following named children, viz.: Robert, born Feb. 3, 1850, married Lena Klinck; Bertha, born Feb. 24, 1852, is now the wife of August Tangemon; Julius, born Feb. 10, 1854; Louisa, Sept. 21, 1860; William, Nov. 9, 1863, and Theodore, April 21, 1865. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 752-753 Garnavillo Twp. -- Rev. Giles M. Porter is a native of Hartford County, Conn., born April 2, 1815. His father, Rev. Noah Porter, and his grandfather, Noah Porter, Sr., were natives of the same county. Mr. Porter spent several years in preparation, and in 1832 entered Yale College and graduated in 1836; after graduating, he was engaged in teaching for several years, both in his native State and in Ohio. He entered the minstry as a Congregational clergyman, in 1844, in Fairfield County, Conn., where he remained about twelve years; he came to Clayton County in July, 1857. He engaged in preaching for several years, but ill health compelled him to retire from the minstry. He owns a farm near the village of Garnavillo, where he located when he came to the county, in 1857. Except occasionally giving instructions to private pupils, Mr. Porter has devoted his attention to farming for many years. He married Sarah M. Jennings, who was born in the city of New York. They have five children, two sons and three daughters. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 806-807 Elk Twp. -- John T. Porter one of the early settlers and prominent citizens of Clayton County, was born in Maryland July 15, 1828. From there he removed to Ohio, where he remained until 1853, when he came to Clayton County. He settled at once on his present farm on section 8, Elk Township. It consists of 120 acres of well cultivated land, containing many excellent improvements. He was married in April, 1858, to Hannah Beatty, who was born in West Virginia, Apil 7, 1837, and came to Iowa in 1852. Four children have blessed their union, vix.; George, born April 15, 1859; Mary, Aug. 24, 1863; James, Dec. 12, 1869, and Mildred, Sept. 26, 1874. Mr. Porter is a member of the Methodist church, and in political sentiment is a Republican. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 764 Grand Meadow Twp. -- Mrs. Zeruiah Post was born in Jefferson County, N.Y., June 9, 1807. She was married on March 6, 1831, to Joel Post, who was born in Vermont in 1805. They were the parents of the following named children--Joel M., born Jan. 11, 1832; Mary E., Sept. 13, 1833; Lydia Ann, March 17, 1835; Margaret, June 22, 1837; Lucy C., April 18, 1840; John S., Nov. 17, 1841; Harriet E., July 20, 1844, and Melissa, March 17, 1847. Joel Post died, and Mrs. Post was married the second time, to G.S. Hayward, in 1852. He was killed by an accident in California. One child was born of this union--Frank, born Jan. 8, 1852. Mrs. Post came to Boardman Township, this county, in 1839, and resided here two years. In 1844 she moved to the neutral grounds. This was a strip of land about forty miles long and twenty miles wide, to separate the Sac and Fox Indians, who were then at variance; it is now part of Allamakee County. She kept the Half-Way House between Forts Crawford and Atkinson. The Indians were around her on every side and she says that nearly all the farms entered at that time was with money paid out by the Government to the Indians, and obtained by the whites by fraud and cheating. She relates several incidents of that kind which came under her own personal observation. She built the first hotel in the township, hauling most of the lumber and material herself, from Elkader, a distance of twenty miles. She is an energetic, business woman, and deserves a great deal of credit for the brave manner in whcih she has tided over difficulties, and gained for herself a comfortable home and competence. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 832-833 Farmersburg Twp. -- James W. Powell (deceased) was a son of John and Nancy (Sheller) Powell, natives of Virginia. They moved to Missouri many years ago, where they died. James W. was born in Virginia, on Oct. 2, 1823; he was a self- educated man, of unusual energy, and received what schooling he had in Missouri. His father died when he was young, and James had to struggle with the adversities of life for many a year. He came to Clayton County and bought his farm of 200 acres of excellent land on sections 24,25 and 13. In April, 1861, he married Catherine J., daughter of William and Marth A. (Clarke) Drips, natives of Pennsylvania; they came to Clayton County, Ia., in 1850, and died in Farmersburg Township. Catherine was born June 15, 1833. By this marriage there are three children - Maggie, born Sept. 16, 1862; Nettie M., July 4, 1865; Nancy, March 12, 1868. Mrs. Powell is a member of the Congregational church. Mr. Powell died Oct. 15, 1879; his death was occasioned by the kick of a horse, after much suffering. Mr. Powell came to Farmersburg at an early day and built his shanty. It was a custom of the country at that time to leave food so that a person coming along hungry could find something to eat. To this custom Mr. Powell was no stranger. In addition to this the custom was to leave oneís name after helping themselves, so that the generous host might know who had been there, but finding his food often gone and nothing to show who took it, Mr. Powell, from appearances about, thought it best to set his gun for wolves, which he did. Soon after this a certain nameless M.D. had a Winnebago cadover, and soon thereafter a fine skeleton, and Mr. Powell lost no more food. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 780-781 Boardman Twp. -- Treverious G. Price was born June 27, 1846, in Jefferson Township, Clayton County. His parents were Eliphalet and Mary A. (Cottle) Price, the former a native of New Jersey, and the latter of Missouri. They had eight children, of whom Treverious was the fourth. His early life was passed on his father's farm in Jefferson Township, and his winters were spent in the common schools. At the age of sixteen he entered Upper Iowa University, and remained one year. After leaving this school he enlisted in the Forty-seventh Iowa Infantry, and served the 100 days for which that regiment was called. The Forty-seventh was engaged principally on garrison duty at Holly Springs, Miss. Mustered out in the early part of 1865, he returned to Elkader, and entered the law-office of Hunt & Price. He remained here two years reading law, but before completing his studies he took a contract for putting up telegraph line on the line of the Northern Pacific in Dakota. In 1873 he was given a position in the mail service of the United States, beginning his duties as mail messenger on the I.E.R.R., April 17. The following year he was transferred to the river road, where he served four years. Feb. 20, 1881, he was appointed Postmaster at Elkader, by Postmaster-General James. He took the office March 1. For an account of the business of his postoffice, see the history of Elkader. Mr. Price was married Nov. 1, 1873, to Mary A. Hawn, who was born in Spencer, Medina County, Ohio, Jan. 29, 1843. They have one son--Avalo Price. Mrs. Price died at Elkader, Aug. 18, 1879, after a lingering illness of eight months. Mr. Price is politically a Republican. He was Justice of the Peace while studying law with Hunt & Price, and for sometime afterward. In 1878, Mr. Price was nominated by the Republican Convention for the office of County Recorder, receiving an almost unanimous vote in convention, but was defeated at the polls by a coalition of the Democrats and Greenbackers. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p.667 Highland Twp. -- Richard Probert (deceased) was born in Muerikirk, Scotland, May 12, 1824, and was a son of William and Jeannette (Jamison) Probert. He obtained a good education and learned the iron-working trade in his native country, and was there married, on June 16, 1848, to Mary Longmuir, a native of Scotland, and a daughter of Robert and Marion (Patterson) Longmuir. In 1850 he came to America, and in 1851 his wife came, she having been detained on account of the illness of one of her children. They went to Pittsburg, Penn., where Mr. Probert followed his trade of puddling steel and iron, and was the first to work the steam hammers. They came to Iowa and settled on a farm in what is now Fayette and Clayton Counties, where they remained four years, then returned to Pittsburg. He took charge of the iron works there, and made plates for iron- clad boats, under Government contract. He manufactured half of the plates for the first iron-clad gunboat used in the United States. In 1860 he returned to Clayton County, and engaged in farming and attending to his work in Pittsburg until his death, which occurred Jan. 10, 1864. He was an honored and esteemed citizen of Clayton County, and received and merited the confidence and respect of his fellow citizens. Mr. and Mrs. Probert had eight children, seven living-- Marion, now Mrs. Joseph Copeland; William, married Sarah E. Hawthorn; Jeannette, married John Peterman; Mary J., Richard, James and Cecilia. Mrs. Probert owns a farm of 460 acres of finely cultivated land in Highland Township, and eighty in Fayette County. History of Clayton County, Iowa, 1882, p. 847