Adair County Iowa History

LINCOLN TOWNSHIP.

The township bearing this name is in the northeastern corner, its east line joining Madison county, and its north, Guthrie county, with Harrison township on the south and Jefferson on the west. It is a full congressional township, comprising about 23,040 acres. The only stream of importance is North river, which flows in a diagonal course through sections 18, 19, 30, 29, 28, 33, 34, 35 and 36, passing from the latter into the adjoining county of Madison. On section 36 it makes a confluence with Grassy Run, which rises in the northwest corner of the township on section 6, and flows in a southeasterly direction through sections 6, 8, 9, 16, 21, 22, 27, 26 and 36. There are other branches and creeks, which furnish plenty of water for stock and practical purposes. No more beautiful and productive land can be found in the present hundred counties that make up the great Hawkeye State. “ Beautiful!” “ Grand!” is the oft-repeated exclamations of those who look upon the great fields of corn, wheat and oats which extend in every direction. The only timber of natural growth in the township is a small tract found in the southeastern part, along the two streams of water already named. But a large amount has been planted by the farmers and is now in thrifty growth. In its somewhat winding course the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific railroad passes through the northern part of sections 2, 3, 4 and 5, and part of the flourishing town of Stuart is found within the borders of this township, thus making its facilities for marketing most excellent. Withal, Lincoln can be considered as among the best farming localities in Iowa.

EARLY SETTLEMENT. The first steps toward the settlement of Lincoln were by Zimri Horner, who entered land October 24, 1854, on section 2, and moved thereon a few weeks afterward. Part of the land is now owned by A. Osborn. Mr. Horner was a native of Indiana, a straight-forward man, and a member of the Friend’s church. He afterward went to Wyscotte, Iowa, and erected a mill, selling his farm in 1863 to A. L. McPherson. The next settlement in Lincoln was made by John P. Coppock, shortly after that made by Zimri Horner, who purchased the farm now owned by Thomas Harris, in the center of the township, erecting a dwelling where the lone trees stand, on section 22. Coppock was a natural mechanic and a thorough-going man, and made some good improvements. He came from Indiana, to which state he afterward returned.

Calvin Carson entered eighty acres of land in 1854, but did not move upon it until 1855.

Albert Barnett came also in 1855, and settled on a farm on North river.

Robert Ewers settled at an early date near Stuart, on section 3, and kept the old house formerly known as the Octagon house.

Milton Mills was among the early settlers of Lincoln, and entered land on the southeast quarter of section 3, or the southwest quarter of section 2, it cannot be positively determined which.

Another pioneer settler in this township is found in the personage of William Stevens, who located on section 25, on the land now owned by Henry Cook. The farm was originally the property of A. L. McPherson, but the first improvements were made after Stevens came into possession of the same.
Orin Dinsmore came the same year as Stevens, who were relatives, which was about 1860. Among the early settlers of this township was a man by the name of Garnett.

OTHER PROMINENT CITIZENS. It is certainly a true saying, that promulgated by Emerson, that “ biography is the only true history,” and in this connection we present sketches of a few prominent citizens of the township, who settled somewhat later than those already named, but who also deserve attention and representation to make a work of this kind the more complete. Among those who have nice homes in Lincoln township and made by their own exertions, is Abraham Sipe, living on section 12. He came to Adair county in the spring of 1870, buying one hundred and twenty acres of land. He has since added, making one hundred and sixty acres in all, at present. For one to commence on an unimproved piece of land and subdue the wildness of nature is no easy task; trees have to be planted, buildings erected, and fences built. Mr. Sipe has a fine orchard, also a great plenty of small fruits, and surrounding his home a beautiful grove, making shade for summer and a defense from the blasts of winter. The only springs in this section of country are found on his farm. Two streams of water gush from the bosom of the earth to slake the thirst of man and beast within easy access. This makes the farm more valuable, which in connection with its high state of cultivation, is a desirable location. Mr. Sipe was born and reared on a farm, the date of his birth being November 11, 1829. His father was Samuel Sipe, a native of Pennsylvania. His mother was Barbara (Brubaker) Sipe, also a native of Pennsylvania. When Abraham was about seventeen years old the family removed to Indiana, and made their home in Randolph county till 1865, at which time they removed to Dallas county, Iowa, living at Redfield four years, and thence to Stuart, but stopping at the latter place only a few months before he settled on his farm. His parents both died in Randolph county. Miss Rachel, a daughter of David Hain, of Stuart, became his wife November 18, 1852. She is a native of Ohio, having been born in Clark county. They have five children—Joseph W., in Avoca, Iowa; Henry W., engaged in the bank at Perry; James R., Susan 0., and Gertrude. Mr. Sipe is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and in politics a democrat.

T. M. Newby took up his abode in Adair county, in 1870, settling in Lincoln township, on section 7. He took up eighty acres, and improved the same, sold out in 1874, and bought one hundred and sixty acres on section 18, improved that, and sold it in 1881, but remaining on the place until spring of 1884, when he removed to section 6, where he remained for a short time, removing to Stuart. Mr. Newby was born in Morgan county, Indiana, March 10, 1839. His parents were Rix and Nancy Newby, nee Monicle, natives of the same place. His enlistment in the service of the United States, was July 25, 1862, serving till June 8, 1865. He enlisted in Company 0, 70th Indiana volunteers infantry, as high corporal, and was mustered in at Indianapolis. He was with Sherman, through from Chattanooga, and on his famous march to the sea, and back to the city of Washington; where he was mustered out. Returning home at the close of the war, he staid in Indiana till 1868, when he removed to Dallas county, Iowa, making that his home till spring of 1870. Mr. Newby has been a useful citizen of Adair county, serving the people in the capacity of assessor of Lincoln township since 1875 to the present time; is also member of town board. Was instrumental in establishing the Grand Army post in Stuart, and has been treasurer of the I. O. O. F. lodge for nine years. He was married to Miss Jemima E. Tansey, a native of the same county as himself. The marriage took place March 24, 1859. There were six children born to them—four sons and two daughters. Her death occurred November 7, 1879, and her remains were interred in the cemetery at Stuart. Mr. Newby now resides in the city of Stuart, Guthrie county, Iowa.

Seymour S. Middleton was born in Dane county, Wisconsin, near the city of Madison, July 19, 1848. He is the son of John D., and Harriet (Johnson) Middleton, both natives of Ohio, but at present living in Hutchison county, Dakota Territory. When nineteen years old, Seymour removed to Adair county with his parents and made it his home with them until his marriage, January 1st, 1871. His wife was formerly Miss Matilda Ewers, a native of Knox county, Ohio, and daughter of Robert Ewers, and was an early resident of Adair county. He built the roundhouse at Stuart. In 1869 he purchased a farm on section 14, eighty acres, there living till 1874,- sold it and bought another farm in Penn township, Guthrie county, and in 1881, he bought his present farm, the north half of southeast quarter of section 10, but carries on adjoining farm, and makes grain raising his especial feature. Four children have been born to them—Otis V., Edna E., Leone M., Cay J. In politics, a greenbacker, and is director of Independent district of Washington.

Samuel G. Chamberlin lives on the northwest quarter section 28, he came to Lincoln township in June, 1874, buying a rich piece of land, which was not improved to any extent. Mr. Chamberlin has put up a nice farm-house, and good barn; he has also set out a good orchard and nice grove, and the tidy appearance indicates a thorough knowledge of the way a home should be made beautiful. He has been engaged principally in grain raising since coming here, but is now making an effort to raise more stock. Has some fine Herefords and intends to make this a specialty in the future. The subject of this sketch was born in Orleans county, Vermont, February 25, 1823, on a farm. His father was Joseph Chamberlin, born in Petersham, Massachusetts. His ancestors were English. He died in Orleans county, Vermont, in 1854. He was a diligent student of the bible, and a strong politician, first a democrat and later an abolitionist. His wife was Miss Nancy Gushing, of Windham, Vermont, born in the village of Putney, and was of Scotch origin. She also died in Orleans county. Samuel had learned the carpenter’s trade, and at twenty years of age, went to Canada East, where he followed this occupation eight years. He was married in Canada, in September, 1848, to Miss Teresa H. Tabor, of Bedford, Canada East, and born in Trailsburg. He next moved to Addison county, Vermont, and engaged with his brother one year in the manufacturing of plows. Resuming his trade, continued there four years. His next place of residence was in Morrow county, Ohio, where he followed carriage-making one year, and in 1857 removed to Cedar county, Iowa, at which place he purchased and improved a small farm. Mr. Chamberlin followed farming a number of years and again resumed his old occupation until he removed to Adair county. There were ten children born, eight of whom are now living —Harrison S., in Nebraska; Adelbert D., in Wyoming; Alma M. wife of D. S. Hale; Joseph H., Fred I., Octavius, Elsie and Zula. Is now serving the Independent district, North River, as treasurer.

George Waters lives on section 2. He came to Adair county from Illinois.. Was born in Wilshire, England, August 12, 1800, coming to the United States in 1856. He worked by the month the first two years, in Missouri. One son, Thomas, came with him to America, and lives in Kansas. His daughter came to Missouri, but subsequently removed to Australia. Mr. Waters lost his wife in England; his family numbered nine children. His present wife was Mrs. Maria N. Thompson, nee Norton, a native of Connecticut.

Thomas J. Simcoke, another of Lincoln’s energetic and enterprising farmers, is a native of Randolph county, Indiana, born June 3, 1840. His father is John Simcoke, living near Guthrie Center, a native of Tennessee, and his mother was Mary Simcoke, nee Hodson, a native of North Carolina, where she was reared, and her death occurred in 1858. In the spring of 1866 Mr. Simcoke left Indiana and removed to Chariton county, Missouri, where he lived one year. He went from there to Dallas county, Iowa, and remained there one year, after which he came to his present location on section 10. He owns the northwest quarter of section 10, and the east half of the northeast quarter of section 9; one hundred and sixty acres of this farm is devoted to tame grass, and the remainder is mostly put to corn. The buildings are good, and a beautiful grove surrounds them. As nice an orchard as can be found in this vicinity, and set out by himself, is also found on this place, Mr. Simcoke has been engaged in raising shorthorn cattle, but is now taking an active interest in the Herefords, owning fifty to sixty cows, mostly shorthorns. He proposes to cross with the Herefords, having a very fine animal at the head of the herd. He also owns a fine messenger horse, and keeps for sale a number of good horses. His marriage occurred December 22, 1861, to Miss Lydia Macy, of Randolph county, Indiana, a daughter of Joseph Macy, and they have one child, Joseph 0.

Joseph Barnett, now deceased, came to Adair county in 1868, and bought the south half of section 23, where his widow and a portion of the family reside at present. He improved this farm and set out a beautiful grove and excellent orchard. He was a native of Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania, born September 15, 1820, and died on his farm in Lincoln township March 5,1881. His parents were Thomas and Jane (Parks) Barnett. He was a blacksmith by trade, and made it a business from quite early in life, till the time of his demise. While in Pittsburgh working at his trade he met Miss Sarah Price, and they were married in 1845. She was a native of Ireland, but was raised at Pittsburgh, At the time of the gold excitement in 1852, he went to California and was gone about three years. Returning he lived again at Pittsburgh till 1861, when the family removed to Moline, Illinois, where he worked at his trade until the removal to Fulton, Muscatine county, where they remained till his removal to Adair county. Mr. Barnett, from the time he was twenty-one years old, was troubled with a cough, which prevented his working as hard as his ambition dictated. He was an honorable, upright and honest citizen, and gained hosts of friends. His remains were interred at Stuart, leaving a family of five children, four sons and one daughter—Joseph W., living in Summit township; Jay L., Scott P., William H. S., married and living near, and Minnie, now the wife of Seth Mount.

Henry Cook, so well known in the county and other portions of the state, on account of his political work and strong adherence to the great republican party, made his advent into this world March 22, 1813. He was born in Fayette county, Pennsylvania, in the village of Cookstown, his father, Abner Cook, was a native of Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, and was a chair maker and wheelwright by trade. His ancestors were all Quakers, and were descendants from William Penn’s colony. The wife of Abner Cook was Margaret Alters, a native of Berlin, Summerset county, Pennsylvania. In 1826 the family removed to Indiana county, the same state, and after a few years’ stay, to Armstrong county, and then again to Indiana county. Here Henry engaged in a store where he clerked some time. Then commenced working in a warehouse; after this he opened out a store and bakery, which he operated some four or five years, closing out this business he again engaged in a warehouse. In 1850 he took the census of Cambria county, and in 1851 went to California, and remained till 1858. He was financially successful and cleared, on an average, fifty dollars per month. Returning home, he concluded to remove west, doing so, he located in Muscatine county, and lived on a farm there about ten years, making about $5,000. In 1868 he came to Adair and bought two hundred and sixty acres; his removal, however, dates from April, 1869. He now owns five hundred acres of land in the county, one hundred and sixty acres in Walnut township. The improvements have all been made by himself and family. There were twenty acres broken and a small house erected on the south line of the farm. He now has a fine farm-house, situated on a rise of ground; this location is fine, the water running in every direction from the house, affording a dry and pleasant location. A grove of some four acres, including a good orchard, surrounds the place. Stock attracts Mr. Cook’s attention almost exclusively; like the other good farmers, he finds the raising of grain very discouraging, and has been for some time almost exclusively giving his attention to the raising of good cattle and hogs. His wife was Miss Catherine A. Fuller, born and reared in Pennsylvania; they were married in 1845, and they have had eight children, only two of whom are living—John L. lives in Summit township, and Willard J., a man of marked ability. Mr. Cook has served his township as trustee and sub-director; he has taken an active part in the schools of the township, and especially his own district, being always in favor of good teachers. He has fixed ideas and great determination in the cause of right, regardless of the enmities it might secure to him from those who disagree with him.

William F. Gordon was born in Donegal, Ireland, on the 23d of February, 1838. His father, William Gordon, was a native of Ireland, but emigrated to the region of the iron mines in Pennsylvania in 1855, where he remained some two and a half years, and then came to Scott county, Iowa, and in 1871 to Grove township, Adair county, where he died in 1875. His wife’s maiden name was Jane McHugh, also a native of Ireland, and who died in Adair county in 1881. William F, enlisted in Muscatine county, Iowa, in 1861 in Company C, 2d Iowa infantry, and served up to May 9, 1862, when he lost his right limb in the battle of Corinth, and was honorably discharged August 11, 1862, at St. Louis, Missouri, and returned to his home at Stockton, Muscatine county. When he was able he rented land there and farmed. He was married October 31, 1867, to Miss Eliza Chambers, a daughter of William Chambers/ senior, who is now a resident of Lincoln township. He sold in Muscatine county and bought a farm in Grove township, Adair county, which he also sold and bought his present farm of one hundred and sixty acres on section 30. He has improved it and built a fine house on the southeast corner of the farm, and intends to make stock-raising a principal feature. The land is all under cultivation, and there is a creek in close proximity to the barn. Mr. and Mrs. Gordon are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. They have eight children— William, Mary, Jane, Nan, Thomas, Carrie, Nellie G., and Lizzie F. Mr. Gordon is school director in the district of Harmony.

William Chambers lives on the northeast quarter of section 32, and also owns the southeast quarter of section 29. He came to Adair county in 1869, but had bought the land in the winter of 1868. He has made good improvements on the farm, having a good house and out-buildings, and has a grove containing six acres including his orchard. He was born in county Tyrone, Ireland, in November, 1819, being the son of James and Jane (Gordon) Chambers. William moved to Philadelphia and remained there till 1861 working at the weaver’s trade, and then came to Muscatine county, Iowa, staying there three years, then coming to Adair county. He was married in 1856 to Eliza Baird, a native of Ireland, and they have six children—Eliza, Anna, William, Thomas, John and Mary. The family are members of the M. E. church. The Chambers family are among the prominent families of Lincoln township.

Thomas P. Neville, one of the prominent farmers and stock-raisers of Lincoln township, was born in Henry county, Illinois, on the 1st of May, 1842, his parents being Patrick and Jane (Pounds) Neville. Thomas was raised on a farm and received his education in the district schools of Henry county, Illinois, and still owns a farm in that county. In 1870 he came to Lincoln township, Adair county, and bought eighty acres of land on section 34, in which section he now owns two hundred and forty acres, all under cultivation; has running water on the farm and has made all the improvements himself. He is principally engaged in raising grain and hogs, and intends to make stock raising a specialty. He was married December 11, 1883, to Miss Josie Elliott, a native of Indiana, but who was raised in Harrison township, Adair county. She was a teacher in this county, teaching a number of terms. Thomas has taught for ten winters, seven of which were in this county. In politics he is a republican, and has held most all of the township offices, including supervisor and justice of the peace.

Luther Gear was born in Butler county, Ohio, December 15, 1821, his parents being A. C. and Lavina Freeman. In 1852 he went to Mercer county, Illinois, settling on a farm and remaining there three years, when he bought land in Muscatine county, Iowa, and moved to that point, where he remained eleven years. then selling out and removing to Scott county. After remaining there three years he came to Adair county and purchased two hundred and forty acres of land, and has added to it till he now owns three hundred and forty-three acres, and carries on mixed farming. In 1880 he removed to Dexter, but returned again in 1882, and now oversees the farm. He has a nicely situated farm under cultivation, and the river runs through his farm, thus giving a good water supply. His place contains a nice grove and an orchard. He was married in Ohio, in 1843, to Miss Elizabeth Moore, and has had twelve children, two of whom are now dead.

Among the prominent citizens of Lincoln township we must not fail to mention Allen M. Davis. He was born in Highland county, Ohio, September 17, 1833, being the son of Branson and Martha M. (Zimmerman) Davis, the former being of English descent, and the latter of German. Allen was married in 1854, to Miss Caroline Lucas, who died in 1858, leaving two children — Jacob B. and Franklin, both living in St. Joe, Missouri, and in a hardware store. Mr. Davis went to Knox county, Illinois, in 1858, and remained there till 1861, when he enlisted in Company D, 7th Illinois cavalry, and was under Pope and Grant. He served till the fall of 1863, when he was honorably discharged. He was wounded at Coffville, and was in the hospital for a time. He entered the army as a corporal and was mustered out a sergeant. After his discharge, he again returned to Knox county, remaining one year, then going to Monroe, Jasper county, and from there to Dallas county, near Waukee. Remained there one year, then going to Dexter, in 1867, where he built a house east of town, and laid out an addition to Dexter, called Davis’s Addition to Dexter. He came to Lincoln township, Adair county, in 1870, and settled on section 13, where he bought eighty acres of land, and also eighty more on section 14. He now owns the west half of section 14, which is under cultivation, and is making grain and stockraising a business. He has a nice residence, surrounded by a grove. His farm is fenced in by osage hedge, having four hundred rods of the same. He was married August 13, 1864, to Susan Foster. His children are — Vesper, Dwight F., Harry A., Ed and Doud. His present wife was Sarah J. Taylor. Mr. Davis is a member of the G. A. R.

Rolland C. Eversull is one of Ohio’s sons, Hamilton county claiming him as his birthplace. He was born September 3, 1843. His father was George W. Eversull, a native of Hamlin county, Ohio, and the date of his birth 1805. His demise occurred September 30,1871. He was of German descent—a hard-working and respected man. Rolland’s mother was Elizabeth (Robertson) Eversull, also a native of Ohio. They raised a large family. Four sons came to, Iowa—Charles W., William R., Rolland C, and Elsten. The subject of this sketch left Ohio in 1867, and settled in Illinois, at Monmouth, and from there to Missouri, Des Moines, and Prairie City. His trip to Missouri was made on foot, returning to Knoxville, Iowa, and remained some time. He was married at this place, to Miss Eusebia Rigg, of Washington, Guernsey county, Ohio. She was a daughter of John Rigg, a Quaker. She had lived at Knoxville since two years old. In the 65 spring of 1870 they came to Adair county, and settled on section 26, which land he had purchased the year previous. His farm of one hundred and twenty acres is under a good state of cultivation. To show the intrepidity of these people, when they first came here, it is only necessary to say they moved into their house before a board was nailed up around to keep out the rain and vermin; such times as the settler of a new country sees, are seldom forgotten. They have raised a family of four children — Edna E., born September 2, 1870; Arthur, born November 28, 1874; George W., born January 15, 1879; Frank M., born October 14, 1881. The date of his enlistment into the service of the United States was in the spring of 1862. He was in Company D, 70th Ohio infantry, 4th division, 3d brigade, and 15th army corps; was in battles Atlanta the 22d and 28th, Mission Ridge, and with Sherman to the sea. He was on active duty all the time, but suffered a sunstroke on the battlefield at Atlanta, He was mustered in at Cincinnati and out at Washington. Elsten Eversull, a brother of Rolland, was born September 10, 1850. He came to Adair county from Ohio in 1873, and now owns thirty-three acres of good land here. He makes his home with Rolland. He is a member of the district board and is a democrat. Charles W. Eversull owns one hundred and three acres on sections 35 and 26; was born in Ohio in 1837. He came to Iowa from Monmouth, Illinois, where he had lived a period of fifteen years. The Eversull brothers are hardworking men and are making their way steadily and surely.

Richard Mount, one of the prominent men of Lincoln township, was born in Warren county, Ohio, June 14, 1827. His father, Ralph Mount, was a native of New Jersey, but removed to Rossburg, Warren county, Ohio, in the early days, and from there went to Knox county, Illinois, in 1844, where he bought and improved land, and died there in 1872. He was a religious man and a hard worker, and cleared from the stump one hundred and sixty acres in Ohio. Richard’s mother was formerly a Miss Hannah Templeton, a native of Baltimore, Maryland, and the daughter of Richard Templeton, a slaveholder at one time, but who gave them their freedom before the war broke oul. He moved to Warren county, Ohio, where Mr. Mount’s father became acquainted with and married his daughter. Richard Mount left home in 1848 and opened a farm in Knox county. He was married November 3, 1848, to Miss Harriet M. Belden, a sister of Joel W. Belden, and the daughter of Aaron and Sarah Belden. They have five living children—Seth W., married Minnie Barnett, and lives in Lincoln township; Albert C, who is in business in Des Moines, and who grows a large amount of corn; Joel W., in Des Moines, with his brother; Hattie, the wife of Charles Thompson; John P., living at home. Mr. Mount owns two hundred and forty acres of land in Lincoln township, on section 24, and an eighty acre farm in Harrison township, section 4. They are engaged in stock-raising and shipping, the farm being well adapted for stock-raising. Richard is a republican and works for the party’s aggrandizement, and was a delegate to the late state convention. He served three terms as justice of the peace.

Alfred Osborn, a stock-raiser and farmer, and a prominent citizen of Lincoln township, was born in Maine, August 22, 1815, his parents being J. and Betsy (Jackson) Osborn, both natives of Maine. In 1836 Alfred left Maine and went to Illinois, but received his education in the district schools at Bloomfield, and at the Redfield seminary. He has taught school in Maine, Illinois, and Penn township, Guthrie county, Iowa. About the year 1840 he commenced mercantile life in Oquauqua, and from there went to Greenbush, where he combined stock-dealing. In 1866 he moved to Omaha, Nebraska, where he remained till 1869, when he came to Adair county and bought four hundred acres of land. He-also owns a good stock-farm in Guthrie county, and raises beef cattle. Mr Osborn has been married three times, once in Maine, once in Illinois, and to his present wife, December 25, 1852. Her maiden namewas Elizabeth Bingham, the daughter of Person and Maria (Keen) Bingham. They have eight children—Alfred H., Charles S., Kittie, Herbert, Giles 0.,Willis, Fanny and Rufus S. Mr, Osborn’s father removed to Illinois and eventually died there, Mrs. Osborn’s parents removed to Iowa, where they both died. Kittie Osborn, a daughter of Alfred, is a schoolteacher, having graduated at Ames, Iowa, In 1883. In politics Mr. Osborn is an active republican.

Samuel Disney is a native of Fairfax county, Virginia, and was born December 17, 1847, his parents being Richard and Jane (Gant) Disney, both of whom are dead, the former dying when Samuel was quite young. He lived on a farm in Virginia till after his twenty-second birthday, when he went to Knox county, Ohio, and worked on a farm till 1873, then removing to Lincoln township, Adair county, where he bought one hundred and twenty acres on section 4. The house is located on the northeast corner of his farm and is surrounded by a fine grove. He has a good bearing orchard, has plenty of running water and has no waste land, one hundred and fifteen acres is under cultivation and the balance is in meadow. His father served as a captain in the Mexican war, and Samuel enlisted in 1862 in the confederate army in Company B, Black Horse cavalry, and served as a scout. He was married in Ohio in December, 1872, to Miss Oorina Fiddler, a native of Knox county, Ohio, and the daughter of William F. Fiddler. They have seven children—Herbert, Celesta, Emma, Myrtie, Clarence, Mary and an infant. Samuel and wife belong to the M. E. church and he is a republican. Lorenzo D. Aultman, farmer and stockraiser on section 3, was born in Holmes county, Ohio, on the 3d of January, 1858, his father being Joshua Aultman. With his parents he moved to Douglas county, Illinois, when he was five years of age, and remained there three years; then going to Muscatine, Iowa, where they lived for five years, then coming to Adair county, Lincoln township, and settling on the farm where he now resides. In 1880 he went to Colorado, prospecting, but returned to Adair, and a short time afterward went to Manning, Carroll county, where he ran a meat market under the firm name of L. D. Aultman & Co., for some two years. He then returned to Adair county, and is on the farm of his brother, J. Aultman. By his own exertions while on the farm Lorenzo obtained a fair education. He was married December 24, 1883, to Miss Nancy H. Rourk, daughter of J. Rourk, of Pella, Iowa. The farm contains two hundred and forty acres of fine land, and he is engaged in raising shorthorns, and at present has fifteen head of pure bloods. He also makes a business of selling fine stock for breeding purposes.

Joel W. Belden is a native of Greenfield, state of New York, born January 22, 1821, in Saratoga county; he was reared on a farm. When but four years of age the family removed to Genesee county, where he lived till his eighteenth year. The next place he removed to was Knox county, Illinois, and engaged in farming at Galesburg, until the spring of 1876, at which time he removed to Adair county. He owns the southwest quarter of section 13, His parents were Aaron and Sarah (Wood) Belden, Augusta (Glyde) Belden was a native of Summersetshire, England, and» daughter of Benjamin Glyde and Mary (Belyn) Glyde. They came to America in 1839, locating at Pittsburgh, removing to Kewanee, Henry county, Illinois. Mr. Belden was married September 10, 1851, to Miss (Augusta Glyde), and six children have blessed the union—Laura, wife of John Cook, of Summit township ; Ann, wife of Joseph W. Barnett, also living in Summit; Marcus M. carrying on the farm ; Mary, Charlotte, and LeRoy; Marcus and Laura have taught. This location, where Mr. Belden lives, is fine. He has a nice yard set out to different kinds of trees and shrubs, the house setting back a little way from the road; a beautiful grove of trees surrounds the house, and his farm is under a good state of cultivation, with running water and good pasturage.

Christopher D. Whittaker was born in Pennsylvania, in Allegheny county, July 1,1835. Reared on a farm until eighteen years of age. Son of Aaron and Ann (Dellenbaugh) Whittaker. His father was a native of the same county, and his mother of Switzerland. He died in Pennsylvania, and she still lives there. The subject of this sketch went to California in April 1856, and worked in the mines there, and was quite successful in accumulating considerable of the “yellow earth.” Not liking a miner’s life, he concluded to return to the east in the spring of 1865, settling in the city of Pittsburgh, he learned the trade of stair-building, and worked at the same about nine years. In 1870 he came to Adair county and purchased the northeast quarter of section 30, but did not move to the place until 1875. The improvements have all been made by himself; he has about one hundred acres under cultivation, and is engaged principally in grain raising. North river cuts through the northeast corner of his farm, making this one of the best of farms for the successful raising of stock. In 1884 Mr. Whittaker erected a good house, and is settled in this location permanently. Miss Dora Moore, a daughter of John Moore, became his wife December 8, 1880, and two children have blessed the union—Christopher Roscoe and Nellie May. Mr. Whittaker is one of those genial men, making friends wherever he goes, is a kind and obliging neighbor, and a man who has a mind of his own.

HISTORICAL EVENTS. The first death which occurred in Lincoln township was a son of Zimri Horner, William, who died January 7, 1862, at the age of eight years, seven months and twenty days. The next death was that of Robert Ewers, who died March 16, 1864. The first ground in the township was broken by cither Zimri Horner or John Coppock, it is not positively known which. They also planted the first corn, sowed the first wheat, etc. The first school-house in Lincoln was commenced in 1862 and completed in 1863. The first school was taught at the dwelling of Robert Ewers prior to the completion of a school-house. Rebecca Macy, nee Hadley, was the teacher. The first marriage in the township occurred in July, 1868. The contracting parties were Charles Smith and Harriet Nelson, solemnized by Rev. J. W. McPherson. The first religious services were held during the fall and winter of 1868, at a school-house then known as the Lindley school-house, but which has since been removed, and is now known as the Frost school-house. Rev. J. W. McPherson had several appointments during the fall and winter season of 1868.

ORGANIC. Lincoln township was organized in 1861. The following were the first officers elected: Milton Mills, member of board of supervisors; Robert Ewers, justice of the peace; Zimri Horner, clerk; John Compton, assessor. The present officers of the township are: John S. Lennington, assessor; A. P. McPherson, clerk; William Stevens, justice of the peace. Union church of Lincoln township has been organized for several years representing all denominations. They hold services every two weeks at the school-house in the independent district of Mount Vernon, Sabbath-school is also held at the same place by this organization. North river Union Sunday-school was first organized in the summer of 1882, when B. F. Fry was elected superintendent. H. M. Ticknor is superintendent at present. The school has always been in good working order and has an average attendance of about thirty-five. Divine services are also sometimes held at this place.
LONE TREE STOCK FARM. This beautiful tract of land owned by Thomas Harris, and called by the above name, is situated on section 22. The reason it is so called is in consequence of there being a native tree standing on the prairie, away from all others, and so tall that it can be seen from a great distance. This farm has not been used exclusively for breeding purposes, but at the present time we find a number of good horses lately purchased. The proprietors of the horses are Thomas Harris and McEldwiney. They have one English draughthorse— Black Sampson, called by the proprietors Othello—weighing one thousand eight hundred pounds, seventeen and three-fourth hands high, coal black, and a very active draught-horse. This is one of th’e finest horses in Iowa, and is the admiration of all who see him. Cleveland Bay’s Hindoo Chief, imported by the Bremer county Horse Importing Company, September, 1882. A beautiful horse, three years old, and a very dark bay. Luck’s All—bright bay with black points, foaled 1879. Sixteen and three fourth hands high, weighing one thousand six hundred and ten pounds; very fine style and action. Would the work admit of it we could speak at a much greater length on the merits of these horses. The gentlemen who own them are always pleased to show people around. Large herds of cattle, and droves of hogs are found here, and the industry proves very lucrative.

EDUCATIONAL. Pleasant Ridge independent school district, embracing sections 1, 2, 11 and 12, has a school-house upon the northwest corner of section 12. At the time of the erection of this building it was considered the best in the township, among country school-houses. It is well supplied with maps, globe, books for reading, etc., has patent seats and contains rooms for library, dinner closet, etc. The first teacher in this district was Mattie Trunky, while the present is Kittie Osborn. The first officers were: A. Sipe, president; M. W. Haver, secretary; A. Osborn, C. A. Ostrander, members of school board. The present officials are: A. Sipe, president; James Sipe, secretary; George Wright, treasurer, and A. Osborn, Joseph Engal, members of school board.

Independent school district of Washington includes three sections—3, 9 and 10. The district was organized in 1875, and a school-house erected upon the southwest corner of section 3. Previous to the Independent organization, it was a subdistrict, with a somewhat ancient-built house for school purposes. The old house was subsequently sold at public sale to R. S. Kirkpatrick, and moved upon his farm where it now serves in the capacity of an out-building. The new school-house is 20x26 in size, and was erected at a cost of $700. It is furnished with patent seats, and in good repair generally. The first teacher in this district was the present county superintendent of schools, M. W, Havet. Wilda McCollum is the present teacher. There is generally eight months of school in the year, and sometimes nine. The first officers of the district were— T. J. Simcoke, secretary; F. Whaley, treasurer; R. F. Smith, president; L. S. Middleton and E. S. Oakes constitute the present school board—F. Wbaly, treasurer; T. J. Simcoke, secretary.

Prairie Queen independent school district consists of sections 17, 18, 19 and 20. The school-house of this district is located on the northwest corner of section 20, and was erected during the fall and winter of 1874. The first school held in the district was in the summer of 1874, when the granary of James Birchard, on section 20, was fitted up in a comfortable condition, in which the school was taught by Lydia Clifford. The next term was taught at the residence of Charles Lockwood, on section 18, by this same lady. William Reynolds was director at that time. The present officers of this district are: P. X. Bardin, secretary; G. D, Whittum, president; G. D. Whittum, acting treasurer; A. Amsbough and James Ryan, school board.

Mount Vernon independent school district, composed of sections 13, 14, 23 and 24, has a school-house 24x32 on the northwest corner of section 24, erected in the fall of 1870. The first school in the district was held at the dwelling of Joseph Barnett in the winter of 1869, with M. W. Haver, now county superintendent, as first teacher. In 1875 it was made an independent district and the ‘following officers elected : A. N. Tate, president; A. M. Davis, treasurer; James McBride, secretary; with F, O. Hinkson as first teacher. Lois Gray is the present teacher. The school is well supplied with maps, charts, globe, encyclopedia. Hill’s manual of forms, History of England, United States, unabridged dictionary, etc., and has a library and hall in the front part of the building. The present officers of the district are as follows : A. M. Davis, president; S. N, Mount, secretary; S. P. Barnett, treasurer ; Franklin Mount, E. Edwards, members of school board.

Lincoln Center independent school district, embracing sections 15, 16, 21 and 22, has a school-house 30x40 feet in size, on the southeast corner of section 16, which is in first-class condition in every respect. When the school-house was first erected in 1869 this territory was a township district, and in 1870 two terms of school were taught by Etta Steavens, with Thomas Harris as director. At that time the district was discontinued for want of a sufficient number of scholars, and subdivided off to three other districts—section 16 in Pleasant Hill, sections 15 and 22 in Mount Vernon, and section 21 in North river. After the subdivision of independent districts in December, 1880, Lincoln Center was organized with the following officers: William Nelson, William McKee, Thomas Harris, directors; William Nelson, president; Thomas Harris, secretary; Shelton Shauholzer, treasurer. The present officers of this district are: Thomas Harris, William McKee, S. Hanley, directors; S. Hanley, president; Thomas Harris, secretary; Alex McKee, Jr., treasurer. To Ida Martin belongs the credit of being the first teacher in the newly-organized district, who taught a term of twelve weeks. Annie M. Lynch taught the two last terms of school.

Bailey independent school district embraces sections 25, 26, 35 and 36. The school-house stands on the southwest corner of section 25, erected in the fall of 1868, and is 20x28 feet in size. In the winter of the same year, a term of two months was taught by Reno Stevens, for which he received ninety dollars, there being five scholars in attendance. The director at that time was William Stevens. In 1875 the district was made an independent one, and the following officers were elected: Richard Gettings, president; Henry Cook, treasurer; E. R. Daniels, secretary. The present officers are: E. Eversull, secretary; George Robinson, president; Henry Cook, treasurer, George Bailey is the present teacher.

North River independent school district which includes sections 27, 28, 33 and 34, has a school-house in the southwest corner of section 27, erected in 1870. Prior to this, however, a term of school was taught by Mrs. Stevens, during the winter of 1869, in a small shed fitted up for a schoolroom, on the east half of the northeast quarter of section 28. The first teacher in the new school-house was Edward Morris. Samuel G. Chamberlain is the president last elected; Albert Tictluor, secretary ; Benjamin Fry, John Gettings, members of the school board.

Harmony independent school district embraces sections 29, 30, 31 and 32. The school-house is situated on the southwest ef corner of section 29. It is 20x26 in size, and was erected in the fall of 1874. Frank Gilpatrick taught the first term of school in the district during the winter of 1874-5. When the district was first organized it was known as a sub-district, with N. W. Young, director. In the spring of 1875 the township was divided into independent districts and it was given its present name—Harmony. The following are the present officers: William Gordon, president; C. D. Whitaker, secretary; J. Coffman, treasurer; William Gordon, C. D. Whitaker, John Chambers, members of school board. Effie Young taught the summer term of 1884. The school is as well furnished and equipped as any in the township.

Thomas Harris came to Adair county, Lincoln township, in 1869, and purchased the west half of section 22, and has since added to his possessions until he now has eight hundred and eighty acres, all in a body, of as fine land as is to be found in the state, and all under cultivation. He has a nice residence, and an orchard and a large grove for protection. He has a very desirable farm, and has all the barns and other buildings necessary, and it is his intention to engage in the stock business. He was born on the 7th day of February, 1837, near Bath, England, and was the son of James and Hester (Flower) Harris. James Harris, Thomas’ father, came to America in 1868, and lived with his son. While in the old country he had a farm of three hundred and fifty acres. His death occurred April 13, 1882, being eighty years of age at the time. Hester Harris, the mother of Thomas, was a native of England, and was born in July, 1803, and now lives with her son. The subject of this sketch came to America in 1857, and remained in New York from May till October the same year, when he came to Muscatine county, Iowa, where he farmed up to 1861, at which time he enlisted in Company B, 7th Iowa infantry, and served to the close of the war. He was mustered out as first duty sergeant. He was taken prisoner at Shiloh and paroled after two weeks’ imprisonment, and was wounded at Vicksburg, and spent three months in the hospital. Among the principal engagements in which he took part, we mention Shiloh, Jackson, Vicksburg and Spanish Fort. He was engaged in Alabama for two years on a cotton plantation as a companion for a young planter, and was in the internal revenue service in the second district of Alabama, which position he resigned to take effect in February, 1869. He was married in Columbus, Georgia, May 28, 1868, to Miss Elizabeth Roper, a daughter of Dr. Roper. They have four children— Ada, George, Bessie and Josie. He is an active worker in the republican party, and has frequently been a delegate, and is a member of the A. F. and A. M., the Grand Army of the Republic and other organizations.

Taken from "History of Guthrie and Adair County Iowa, 1884", transcribed by Carlyss Noland