S. J. Soyster, merchant, Elkport, was born in Alleghany County, Md., Oct. 1, 1833. His parents, Jonathan and Elizabeth (Boyer) Soyster, were likewise natives of Maryland. The former died in 1836, the latter in 1877, both in Cumberland, Md. The subject of this record was educated in the select schools of his native State, and learned the cabinet-maker's trade in Cumberland. He followed his trade there five years, and in 1850 came West, and located in Clayton City, Ia., where he established a shop, after working for ten months with a Mr. Patch, then buying his stock and engaging in business for himself. In 1857 he came to Elkport and embarked in the mercantile trade. He carries a complete stock of goods, and does a large and profitable business. He was married in 1858 to Cornelia Enslow, who was born in Greene County, Ill., and was a daughter of Abraham and Julie H. Enslow, nee Mann. They have four children-- Clara, Charles L., George and Mary. Mr. Soyster was Postmaster during Buchanan's administration. He has served as Township Clerk and Justice of the Peace. He is a member of A.O.U.W. and A.F. & A.M. lodges. In politics he is a Democrat. source: History of Clayton
County, Iowa, 1882, p. 1126-1127 |