Jones County History - Jones County, Iowa

THE METHODISTS

"The Methodists held their first meeting in Thomas Green's barn in June, 1855, and formed a class. It was then a part of Mineral Creek Circuit, and Joel B. Taylor was the preacher in charge, and J. G. Dimmitt was the Presiding Elder. I think the latter was a sound man on some theological points. I once heard him say that 'a lazy man was one of God's nuisances,' and I consider that a point in theology too much neglected. The Church has been very prosperous from its first organization, and very harmonious since the completion of its church edifice. For ten years, the meetings were held in the schoolhouse. They would all agree quite pleasantly, would talk, sing and pray with fervor, and wish for a house of worship. They were willing to give both time and money to procure a church edifice; but when location was talked, there was always trouble. On the hill, in numbers, they were the strongest. On the flat, they felt the omnipotent power of money. That little stream, innocent, in itself, to the brethren on the hill was a perfect terror. To the brethren on the hill, that flat was worse than the Slough of Despond, described by Bunyan; while to the brethren on the flat, that hill was worse than the Hill Difficulty, described by the same author. I have seen men go down to Jordan's stormy river more complacent than those brethren would approach the little rivulet. In the early history of the town, there was a great, but not always commendable, rivalry between the two sections. Where stand those brick blocks, the pride and ornament of the village, was considered way out of town, and yet they were hardly a stone's throw from what was then considered a wonderful place of business. In its business relations, this rivalry entered the Methodist Church, and for a long time prevented them from building a house of worship. Various expedients were resorted to to reconcile the inharmonious elements. At one time, it was thought best to raise the subscription and let that locate the church.

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Bishop Haven said that 'every town has some building or structure that denotes its folly.' This Methodist Church building came near proving the rule true in reference to Wyoming. It had been built for a mill, by a stock company. The war and other circumstances caused the work on the mill to be stopped when the walls were up and the roof partly on. Here it stood with its windows open, but not as now-toward Jerusalem. Owls, doves and bats found homes in its attic. Its basement was filled with cribs of corn; but no famine made a demand for it, and part of it, at last, was fed to swine in the cellar below. Tired of its dilapidated look, the stockholders, with one or two exceptions, proffered to donate it to the Methodist society, if they would finish it for a church. The offer was accepted, the vestibule added, the Church united, and, as the result, we have this comfortable, convenient and almost elegant church. It was dedicated by the Rev. A. J. Kynett September 3, 1866. Who the first officers of the Church were the records do not tell. J. B. Taylor, Stevenson, A. Bronson, F. Amos, H. Bradshaw, J. Scholes, J. H. Todd, H. Taylor, R. Hawn, L. Catlin, G. R. Manning, W. A. Allen, B. C. Barnes, L. Taylor, H. H. Green, W. E. McCormac and J. A. Kerr have been Pastors. No minister has died, while ministering to this Church, since its organization. Two local preachers have died, who, in the early history of the Church, did much to encourage and sustain it. They were Rev. Ansel Brainard and Rev. Thomas Bronson. Both had long been identified with the Church, were ripe in years and rich in faith.

PRESBYTERIANS

"The Presbyterian was the first church edifice in the town or in the township. The Rev. George E. Delavan, then living at Maquoketa, having occasion to pass through Wyoming, was pleased with its location, and, upon his representations, the Rev. James H. Spellman, a home missionary, came here to look up the interests of Zion, in connection with the organization of a Presbyterian Church.

"On the 17th day of May, 1857, a society was organized, as preliminary to the organization of a Church. A constitution was adopted, and Joseph Bryan, John Morse and Emmons Leonard, elected Trustees; A. W. Pratt, Treasurer, and A. M. Loomis, Clerk. The Rev. George E. Delavan became the Pastor. Articles of Incorporation were adopted April 8, 1859. The organization was effected at the house of A. W. Pratt. A. M. Loomis, A. W. Pratt, Jeremiah Gard, Thomas Haines, Sr., and A. M. B. Stiles were the members who signed those Articles of Incorporation. The Church thus consisted of six members. Four of them had passed the meridian of life, and two were young and full of hope.

"Capt. Loomis is the only one left in our midst to tell the old story of the organization of that Church, by those half-dozen men. How widely divergent have been their paths. Pratt, in Massachusetts; Bryan, gone West; Haines, gone North; Stiles in Chicago; Gard, moved to Kansas in the spring of 1878. He felt the infirmities of age, and remarked to the writer that he had only a little while to stay, and if the boys could do better in Kansas, he was willing to go. He died there in the fall of the same year. He was an upright man, a good neighbor and a sincere Christian. He organized a Sabbath school on Pleasant Ridge, and was the efficient Superintendent. His last meeting with his school was very affecting, and seemed more like a father bidding adieu to a family, than simply a neighbor moving away. He was not afraid to die.

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When the news of his death was received here, every heart was sad, and all, with one accord, said in sober accents, 'Uncle Jerry died among strangers.' In Kansas, he organized another Sabbath school, and died with harness on.

"He had been twice married, and twice he had followed to the grave his partners. He left one daughter and four sons. He had lived in Wyoming nearly a quarter of a century, and had reached nearly fourscore years.

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"During the summer of 1860, the old church edifice was erected. The Rev. Trowbridge, of Dubuque, laid the corner-stone, with proper ceremonies. An excavation has been made in the stone, where the records of the church, a copy of the Eureka and several other articles, were deposited in a sealed box. Mr. Delavan, the Pastor, was untiring in his efforts to build that church. He wrote, begged and worked, until his efforts were crowned with success. He witnessed the gradual rising of its walls with pride and pleasure, till the last brick was laid and the last flourish given by the mason's trowel. With one blast from the breath of Omnipotence, those walls were razed to the ground. The faithful gathered around to view the ruins, and with philosophic and pious mien, in solemn chorus, said

        "' It was to be,
        It's God's decree
        From time's beginning.'

"Fondly cherished hopes were blasted. The numerical and financial feebleness of the Church almost made the idea of rebuilding hopeless. Standing on one corner of those ruins, Mr. Delavan, with uplifted hand, said: 'With God's assistance, these walls shall be rebuilt.' His untiring energy was again called into activity. He visited remote parts of the county, enlisted the sympathies of men and women abroad, and again had the satisfaction of seeing those walls rising in place.

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"Mr. Delavan was the only minister that has died in Wyoming while sustaining pastoral relations to any of the churches, and he deserves very honorable mention in connection with the growth of Wyoming and its moral and religious development. He was an active worker in the field for the benefit of his fellowmen. The first winter after he came here, he organized a library association, and succeeded in gathering together quite a number of volumes of valuable books. He also caused to be read a paper. It was a semi-monthly publication, and was edited and read by a person appointed at each meeting, thus giving the editor two weeks to write his editorials. It was called The Iris.

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"Some time in the fall of 1860, Mr. Delavan was attacked with bleeding at the lungs. He continued his ministrations after he became so weak that he could not stand while he preached; but, sitting in his chair and breathing with difficulty, he proclaimed the great truths of the Gospel. I remember going in to see him one morning, just as he was finishing his breakfast. He said to his wife: 'Get the Bible, and we will have our usual family worship.' She replied that she was fearful he was too much prostrated. Said he: 'I can acknowledge God.' Then, sitting in his chair, he devoutly implored the divine blessing upon his family and all mankind. March 18, 1861, he passed serenely from earth to receive the reward of the faithful, and his funeral was the first religious service held in the church he had labored to build. He was a man of marked ability, a thorough scholar, and, in his intercourse with men, exhibited very many of those excellencies that should adorn and embellish Christian character. His widow was left with four small children, in very limited circumstances. Trusting in the widow's God, she has done nobly. One son and one daughter are well situated in Pittsburgh, Penn.; one daughter is the wife of the junior editor of the Anamosa Eureka, and the youngest son is the editor and proprietor of a prosperous newspaper in Greene County, Iowa.

"The widow lives at Hopkinton, Iowa, and is at work for 'The Master.' Her time, voice and pen are freely given for the benefit of the Sunday school and missionary work. Her 'Bible Readings' evince a thorough knowledge of that book and a sincere belief in its wonderful teachings. Her addresses are remarkably clear, and show an order of talent that would grace any pulpit in the land. The ministers who followed Mr. Delavan as Pastors were Revs. George R. Carroll, J. L. Janes, A. K. Baird, Mr. Lodge and Mr. Goodale.

"Mr. Janes, while temporarily preaching at Floyd, was attached with cerebro-spinal meningitis, and died suddenly. He was brought here for burial. His connection with the Church as Pastor had been so recent, his many acts of kindness and generosity, his faithful preaching, his social manners, and all relations, whether as Pastor, friend or neighbor, endeared him to the people, whether in or out of the Church, and he was followed to the grave by a mourning community, who realized the great loss, but were consoled by the thought that it was his gain. His widow lives in our midst, esteemed and respected. Benevolent, generous and kind, with health much impaired, she patiently waits to 'enter into the joy of the Master.' The son is a successful physician, and lives at Newark, N. J. The daughter is the energetic and talented wife of E. B. Champlin, Esq., of Wyoming.

UNITED PRESBYTERIAN

"This Church was organized November 4, 1859, by the Rev. Jonathan Stewart, with twenty members. Samuel Coburn, Jesse Barrett and J. W. Wherry were the first Elders. Coburn and Barrett are gone and Wherry alone of that trio is left. Of this organization, I have but a few incidents to relate; but, in passing, will simply state-their church was built without ostentation; they sing the Psalms of inspiration, and mind their business with admiration.

"The first preacher I recollect connected with this denomination, was John Anderson, a young man from Washington County, N. Y. He preached here before the Church was organized. He was sent out as a supply, was quite young, but his sermons were ripe with thought and careful preparation. He preached good sermons full of beauty, pathos and power, one of which I well remember. His subject was 'The Judgment Day,' and from the storehouse of thought and the elevated planes of imagination, with Gospel truth and eloquent zeal, he portrayed the scenes of that awful day. He warned, admonished, entreated, and if any of those who heard him receive the reward of the workers of iniquity, it will not be the fault of John Anderson. L. J. Crawford, J. U. McClenahan and William Donaldson have been the installed Pastors.

BAPTIST CHURCH

"The Baptist Church, which, in the early history of Wyoming, had an existence here, was organized on Pleasant Ridge, at the house of Judge Holmes, by his father, Rev. Luther Holmes, in 1852. In 1858, it was transferred to this town, where it retained an existence without any settled Pastor until 1862. At its organization, there were six members. The largest number connected with the Church at any one time was twenty-three, of whom two were united by baptism and the rest by letter. The Church was feeble; the removal of some and the death of others diminished their number, and, after a struggle of nearly six years, the organization was abandoned.

"Rev. Luther Holmes located on Pleasant Ridge in 1851, and died in 1858. He was among the first resident ministers in the township. During his residence here, his ministrations partook much of the character of our itinerant preachers. In winter, private houses, and summer, the groves, were used for Church purposes. His name is remembered as one of the early Christians who taught both by precept and example. He died at the age of seventy years.

"I would be glad to mention various associations that had an existence, but space forbids. Wyoming had its prosperous Lyceum, flourishing Literary and Library Association, Horse Protection Society, often called Vigilance Committee, its object being as stated in its constitution, 'to ferret out offenders and bring them to justice.

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The organization of these societies in all new countries is almost a necessity. They are a terror to evil-doers, and the horse-thief and blackleg flee from the 'wrath to come.'

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"The old Iowa Mutual Insurance Company was formed here, just how early I cannot tell, but should say about 1857. Milton Briggs was the Company, and there were a few men they called Directors. The stock was represented by energy, perseverance, and determination, and its surplus capital was invested in what is commonly called 'cheek.' It was astonishing to see what an amount of this commodity could be bought with so small a surplus. It was a good thing for Wyoming, and brought to our town many men and considerable money. It loaned money, and when its affairs were wound up, there was no one to receive its indebtedness, or look after it, and that clever old statute of limitations paid it. It favored the education of the young, and for this purpose built a large schoolhouse in our town, and would have made it more ornamental, if it had not been for short-sighted School Directors. It discharged its obligation with fidelity and paid its losses promptly. It might have been doing business yet, but it was alleged that legislation was unfriendly, and its affairs had better be wound up.

"In the spring of 1856, Thomas Green and Mr. Bodenhoffer built a steam mill in the north part of the township. It has been torn down and removed. It furnished lumber for most of the buildings that were being erected at that time, and there is not a farm for miles around but what is fenced with lumber, more or less of it coming from that mill.

"In our early history, all merchandise was brought in wagons from various points on the Mississippi River; afterward, London became the great shipping point. In wet seasons, it was a severe task to get across the Wapsie Valley and over some of the miry sloughs, both this side and beyond. For years, we looked and hoped for a railroad connection directly east. At length, with aid to the amount of $40,000, the Davenport & St. Paul road was finished through our town in the year 1871.

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"The Midland Railroad was finished through the north part of the township the same year, and the town of Onslow commenced. By the two railroads, our citizens have access to all points, north, east, south and west.

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"The first doctor who lived on this town plot was Dr. Edwards. He came in the spring of 1856. Of his antecedents, I know nothing; of his skill, I am entirely ignorant; but it was said he bought a fine pacing horse of Nick Countryman. One day, he paced out of town, and Nick's estate would be glad to know if he is pacing yet.


James A Bronson	S. K. Toutellot

Thomas Green	R. S. Williams

"Among the first merchants were J. A. Bronson, Irving Green, Gilbert & Kelly, Hendricks & King, B. K. Bronson, S. M. Bronson, A. G. Brown, A. Bronson, S. K. Tourtellot, J. B. Allen, Hezekiah Moore, Charles Gilbert and George Foote, Benjamin Stiles, L. D. & D. E. Brainard. The first tinner's name was White, and his shop was in the back part of A. H. Persons' house. The latter was the first artist in the town, and his rooms were in the house of Mr. Thomas Green. R. S. Williams was the first successful brickmaker, and to him Wyoming is greatly indebted for its brick blocks and dwellings. His stores, halls and galleries, and shops of various kinds, speak of merited success. The first hotels were kept by Brainards, and in the business they got up a corner. Uncle Ansel and Daniel E. were cornered where the Valley House stands, and Nial and his sons were cornered where the Bissell House stands, and L. D. was cornered out on the prairie, a mile east of town, but running a hotel.

"I have mentioned the earliest settlers, or those who came in 1839 and 1840. It is a short list and I repeat it: James Van Voltenbergh, with his sons Joseph, Taylor, Peter and Dan, David Pence, William Knight, Garrisons, Simpsons.

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"In 1842, John B. Nichols, the father of our druggist, moved on what is now called South Prairie, and located on the farm now owned by Mr. John Byerly. He was the first settler in that vicinity. In the summer of 1842, he cut logs, and drew them out on the prairie for a house. His farming occupying his time for a few days, his track on the prairie was no longer visible, and he lost his logs. A second lot of logs shared the same fate. When he drew the third set, he took occasion to mark the road so that he could find them. You can judge that there was pretty tall grass over there. He is said to have killed seventeen rattlesnakes one morning before breakfast.

"In 1844, Joel B. Taylor and Seaborn Moore moved here. Taylor located where Peter Byerly lives; his father came a few years later. Seaborn Moore was formerly from Georgia; but he had been living in Indiana and Illinois long enough to get himself and family thoroughly filled with a real genuine ague, and he left that country to find a spot where the ague was unknown. Those of you who know where he located will readily conclude that the ague would never find him. It was a very secluded spot in the northeast corner of the township. There were two ways to get there. You could follow up a narrow, crooked, rocky ravine from toward Monmouth, or you could go over through the brush toward Canton. No matter which way you went, you could always tell when you were most to Esquire Moore's. When you had gone just about as far as you could get, you felt very certain that you were pretty near Mr. Moore's. There was no ague there. A pure spring of crystal water came up among the rocks. Lightning had a peculiar attachment for that place, and often manifested its power. There were in the family father, mother, seven boys and two girls. Some of them, however, were married, and all became stout and robust. In after life, five of those boys enlisted to fight the battles of their country and against the oppression of the native heath of their father. Those five boys were as successful in dodging rebel bullets on battle-fields as they had been heaven's artillery in the rocky ravine at home. Mr. Moore was the first Justice of the Peace in the township.

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"John Tompkins came to Wyoming in 1846, and is one of the few who has retained his first location. Sarles Tompkins, the father of Stillwell, came in 1848. He or Thomas Green built the first barn in the township; both were built the same year. Mr. Tompkins was killed while trying to load a log on to a sled in 1862. John T. Lain, the father of Samuel, came into Wyoming in 1849, and located on the farm now owned by Roderick Spencer. He sold his claim afterward to Sweet and Lindsay, who claimed to be doctors; but it is said to be a question whether they were engaged in that laudable business or stealing horses. He died some years ago. His widow is still in our midst, tottering under the infirmities of age.

"S. C. Bill, O. J. Bill, L. D. Brainard and G. W. Fawcett came in 1851, and located on Pleasant Ridge, and chained their wagons to the trees to keep them from blowing away. They had heard of Iowa's balmy breezes and thought they would anchor their prairie schooners to some trees and thus secure a footing on terra firma. They were the first settlers on that ridge, and came from Ohio. They had traveled from the Buckeye State in wagons, during one of the wettest seasons ever known, and when they got on to that ridge, they probably thought it like Mount Ararat, and they took possession of it. L. D. Brainard pitched his tent on the Stephen Hamilton farm; also entered some timber-land in the east part of the township. This timber had been claimed by some one from Jackson County, and the Claim Society from that county came up to notify L. D. that he must get off that land. He heard what they had to say, and then in language almost profane said, 'By the long wars, we have six rifles and plenty of ammunition. You undertake to drive me away from here and we will show you that we know how to use them.'

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"He never heard of that Claim Society again. Brainard built a saw-mill on Bear Creek, which was the first in this vicinity. He went West several years ago. W. H. Holmes and Amos Robbins came the same year. The latter shot himself a few years later. Mr. Holmes is still in our midst. At the first election in the township, he was elected Justice of the Peace; has since been Representative, Senator, County Judge and State Treasurer, and is now our obliging Postmaster."

"Samuel Conally, Sr., and Benjamin Wilson came into the township in 1851. In the two families, there were twenty-two persons; and they are all living except one. Thomas Conally went to California and died; all the rest remained in Iowa and lived. Mr. Conally lives on the land he then bought. He is eighty-eight years old, and I believe is the oldest person in the township, and is one of the few survivors of the war of 1812.

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"Samuel Conally, Jr., lives in the first frame house that was built in the township. It is the house where George Gilbert formerly lived.

"W. S. Johnson came in the spring of 1852, and William Stuart, in the fall of the same year; both located on the ridge. Mr. Johnson was at one time a Representative in the Iowa Legislature. He died a few years ago, in Connecticut, where he had gone for the benefit of his health. He leaves three sons in Wyoming, and one (the Doctor) in Connecticut. Mr. Stuart was the first Postmaster in our township. The post office was at his house, and was called Pierce; it was established in 1853. As before mentioned, Mr. Stuart went to California and died.

"William Ingles came that year, and located in the east part of the township. Walter Trimble and James Tabor came the same year. The former is dead; the latter lives in the southeast corner of the township, on a well-improved farm, and is said to have the largest orchard of any man in the State. John Russell and John Sim were among the immigrants that year. The former lives in Clay Township, but the prominent offices he has held make him familiar to us. He has been a member of the Legislature several terms, and Speaker of the House of Representatives and State Auditor. In the fall of 1879, he was elected State Senator, to represent Jones and Cedar Counties. His companion, John Sim, lives on the farm he bought from Uncle Sam, near Onslow, and is spending the decline of his life in ease and retirement. He is one of the noblest works of God-an honest man.

"Truman Eastman, the father of Joel, was among the arrivals that year and located on the ridge; he died several years ago. His widow still lives on the old homestead.

"Nathan Potter, Joseph and Hiram Wheeler, and Charles Gardner came in 1853.

"Mr. Stingley located the same year on S. G. Franks' farm, and Widow Seals on the land now owned by Charles Johnson and W. J. Brainard. John Miller came that or the next year, and bought and improved the west part of R. B. Hanna's farm. The house has been removed.

"Benson Stunkard and S. J. Pence also came this year. The latter planted the first large orchard in the township, and, unlike many others, he stays to enjoy its fruits. E. B. Nims came that year, and located where his widow now lives. William Tasker was also one of the settlers who came in 1853. He lived on a farm a little east of Onslow, a lonely bachelor, until he found grace with Paul. His brother, John Tasker, came soon after, and has been much interested in county politics, and has been a member of the House of Representatives. Elijah Edwards, on Beers' Creek, was among the first settlers of the township. Old Mr. Paul, the father of all the other Pauls and of both of the Taskers' wives, came about the same time, and located on what is now called South Prairie. He spent the decline of a well-spent life honored and respected, and surrounded by more children grown to mature years than often falls to the lot of man. He died at the house of his son John, some years ago, at the age of seventy-eight. The evening before he died, he sent for me to come and see him. When I sat down by his bedside, he said, with his native politeness, 'I do not wish to take any medicine; excuse me. I sent for you to come and tell me how long you thought I would probably live.' The fluttering pulse told me that life was fast ebbing, but his mind was clear and serene. No tremor shook his frame at the thought of death's cold embrace. He had laid his treasures 'where moth and rust do not corrupt.' Before the morning sun had shed his rays on the beauties of earth, the spirit of Henry Paul had gone to the realm of everlasting life. I have thus sketched some of the early settlers up to the organization in 1854. The rapid increase after that prevents further details.

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"Most of us, ere we reach the half-century stake in Wyoming's progress, will have finished our course. A few of those in middle age will be permitted to linger on the threshold of the second half-century of our history, among the increased beauties, enjoy the more exalted privileges, and appreciate better the early sacrifices of those who were pioneers in molding, fostering and directing the early career and institutions of the township of Wyoming."

WYOMING IN 1879

The flourishing town of Wyoming is very pleasantly situated in the southwestern portion of the township of the same name, and numbers at least a thousand souls, nearly all of whom are Americans. The place was settled by emigrants from the States of New York and Ohio. The Bear Creek runs through the town and joins the Wapsipinicon River, about four miles from the corporation limits, and affords something of a water-power for the use of the inhabitants. The business portion is on the east side of Bear Creek, and the business houses being built of brick give to the place a good substantial appearance. The public-school building and the church edifices are plain, simple and commodious, and bespeak that the inhabitants prefer convenience and comfort above useless display and architectural ornament. The place was incorporated as a city in 1873.

OFFICIAL ROSTER

1873-Mayor, M. H. Calkins; Recorder, T. E. Patterson; Treasurer, E. Perkins; Marshal, L. V. Brainard; Street Commissioner, J. W. Milner; Trustees-B. H. White, D. L. McDaniels, S. W. Johnson, T. M. Wilds and W. J. Brainard.

1874-Mayor, M. H. Calkins; Recorder, C. S. Gilbert; Treasurer, J. B. McGrew; Street Commissioner, J. W. Milner; Marshal, J. H. Countryman; Assessor, L. F. Hartson; Trustees-S. W. Johnson, B. H. White, D. L. McDaniels, T. M. Wilds and W. J. Brainard.

1875-Mayor, John Waite; Recorder, T. E. Patterson; Treasurer, W. T. Fordham; Street Commissioner, John A. White, Sr.; Assessor, A. B. Holmes, Trustees-D. L. McCaniel, W. J. Brainard, T. M. Wilds, S. W. Johnson and Lansing Hoyer.

1876-Mayor, J. A. Bronson; Recorder, P. D. Swigart; Treasurer, A. B. Holmes; Trustees-W. H. Holmes, A. M. Loomis, M. H. Calkins, W. J. Brainard and O. L. Thompson.

1877-Mayor, J. A. Bronson; Recorder, P. D. Swigart; Treasurer, O. M. Watson; Assessor, Ansel Bronson; Street Commissioner, William Ireland; Trustees-W. J. Brainard, A. M. Loomis, A. E. Spitzer, T. R. Marshall and H. Arnold.

1878-Mayor, A. E. Spitzer; Recorder, P. D. Swigart; Treasurer, W. T. Fordham; Assessor, Ansel Bronson; Street Commissioner, John A. White, Sr.; Trustees-J. A. Bronson, J. White, Sr., L. Hoyer, C. S. Gilbert and H. Arnold.

1879-Mayor, R. S. Williams; Recorder, A. L. Trumbull; Treasurer, C. C. Horton; Assessor, Ansel Bronson; Street Commissioner, John A. White, Sr.; Trustees-A. E. Spitzer, A. E. Allen, F. O. Ellison, S. W. Johnson, A. M. Loomis and H. Arnold.

The present officials are opposed to the sale of intoxicating beverages, and no saloons are licensed in the town. There are three churches, one graded school, one newspaper, one national bank, three dry-goods stores, one merchant tailor, one clothing store, one exclusively grocery store, two restaurants and groceries combined, two drug stores, one flour and feed store, two harness-shops, two shoe-shops, two millinery and dressmaking establishments, one furniture store and undertaker, two meat markets, two hardware stores, one livery stable, one lumber-yard, one barb-wire factory, one machine and wagon shop, two blacksmith-shops, one cooper-shop, one barber-shop, one steam flouring-mill, one creamery, one agricultural implement store, two hotels, three doctors, four lawyers, two dentists, one architect and builder, one railroad office, one express office and no saloons.

The people are thriving and industrious, and the prospects of the town flattering. The Wyoming Creamery is situated here, and is a valuable acquisition to the town, which is well situated to secure the trade of a large and fertile agricultural district.

Wyoming Journal-The first newspaper published at Wyoming was in December, 1870, by A. L. Smith, and was called the Wyoming Journal. Smith continued the publication until March, 1872, and then moved his office to Anamosa and began the publication of the Anamosa Journal, the history of which is given elsewhere. After the lapse of a few weeks following Smith's removal to Anamosa, Rev. E. Skinner purchased material and established a newspaper office, and began the publication of a weekly paper, also entitled the Wyoming Journal. Mr. Skinner filled the chair of editor and proprietor for some months, and sold the office to N. W. Woodford, who continued the publication something more or less a year, and abandoned the enterprise, and the office reverted to Rev. Mr. Skinner. For a time no paper was issued, when the office was purchased by Messrs. Hunt & Howard, the publication resumed, but the name was changed to Wyoming News. After a brief period, Mr. Hunt became the sole proprietor, and the publication was continued to the close of the first volume of the News. Again for a time no paper was published. In January, 1875, P. D. Swigart purchased the offices of Messrs. Hunt & Skinner, and resumed the publication of the Wyoming Journal, and still continues as editor and proprietor. Politically, the Journal maintained the principles of the Republican party during its early years of publication, and until the time when Mr. Hunt took control, and during is administration it was neutral on political matters. Since 1875, under the present management, it has maintained an independent standard, and has had but little to say in reference to political matters; Mr. Swigart aiming to furnish a local newspaper for the people of Wyoming and vicinity, and deeming it not advisable or necessary to espouse the cause of either political party. The office of the Journal is well supplied with material in the jobbing department, and enjoys a good local patronage. The circulation, though not large, is increasing steadily; and there is reason to believe that the Journal has secured permanent footing, and will continue to prosper as the years go on.

Wyoming Lodge, No. 147, I.O.O.F.—Instituted January 4, 1867. The first officers were: W. T. Fordham, N.G.; Robert Hanna, V.G.; C. C. Horton, Secretary. Officers for 1879: F. O. Ellison, N.G.; C. C. Horton, V.G.; L. F. Hartson, Secretary; L. J. Richards, Treasurer. The Lodge has a membership of thirty-five, owns its hall and furniture, and has $300 at interest; has on hand about $100, and is in a good healthy condition.

Keystone Lodge, No. 206, A.F.&A.M.—Organized at Wyoming, under dispensation, February 2, 1867, and under charter, June 5, 1867. The first officers under the charter were: O. E. Aldrich, W.M.; A. G. McGrew, S.W.; A. B. Stiles, J.W.; R. Gilbert, Treasurer; Truman Gilbert, Secretary; John A. White, Jr., S.D.; John Paul, J.D.; R. L. McCune, S.S.; C. C. Horton, J.S.; Ed Smith, Tiler. The present officers are: C. H. Johnson, W.M.; C. S. Shepard, S.W.; Charles Pawson, J.W.; C. C. Horton, Treasurer; T. B. Reynolds, Secretary; M. M. Van Horn, S.D.; W. H. Peck, J.D.; H. B. Littell, Tiler. The Lodge has a membership of seventy-one, owns its hall, which is well furnished, and also owns an adjoining hall, which is used for refreshment purposes, etc.

Wyoming Lodge, No. 109, A.O.U.W.—Organized March 29, 1877, and elected the following officers: H. H. Green, P.M.W.; W. J. Chamberlain, F. O. Ellison, G.F.; T. R. Marshall, O.; M. E. Hurd, Recorder; A. M. Loomis, Financier; W. J. Brainard, Receiver; C. C. Horton, G.; E. B. Wherry, I.W.; L. W. Norton, O.W. The Lodge has a membership of thirty-five, and is in good working condition. Since organization, the Lodge has sustained but one loss, that of Mr. W. E. Hurd, to whose widow was paid the sum of $2,000.

MADISON TOWNSHIP

This township is situated in the second tier of townships from the south, west of the township of Wyoming. The surface in general is smooth and unbroken, in parts rolling, and there is a range of low hills extending east and west through the center. There is but little timber in the township, and the inhabitants depend in a measure on the adjoining towns for wood for fuel. The farmhouses are good, the farms well cultivated, and the soil as fertile as in any part of the county. Bear Creek crosses the southern part from west to east, and a branch of Mineral Creek has its source in this township. The township makes a fine display of good schoolhouses, and the employment of good teachers bespeaks a commendable interest in the education of the rising generation.

Among the early settlers were Mr. Scriven, who settled in the township about the year 1855, at the place where the village of Onslow now stands. He is now dead and the family is scattered; one daughter is now living on a part of the old farm, the wife of Alex Clark, also an old settler.

Amos Gilbert settled a half-mile north of Onslow. He died two years ago.

Fred Dockstader settled a quarter of a mile west of Onslow, and C. C. Himebaugh on the farm next west of him.

Mr. Crouse, a German, settled in the extreme north. He died some years ago.

Jacob Bender and his brother Thomas settled in the south part of the township.

Horace Fay founded what was once the village of Madison in the southwest.

These are perhaps all those who might be properly called pioneers.

A few years later, the following persons were added to the settlers of the township: H. Bartow, William Hawley and family, Henry Cross, John McDonald and brothers, John Anderson, James Tuttle, M. O. Felton, John and Willard Niles

THE VILLAGE OF ONSLOW

The village of Onslow is in the northwest portion of Wyoming and the northeastern part of Madison, a part in both townships. E. M. Franks, who settled in Wyoming Township some years ago, and become a large land-holder, was the proprietor of the town. The site was laid off into lots and the village begun, in the spring of 1872, on the completion of the Midland Branch of the Chicago & North-Western Railway to this point. Mr. Franks died two years ago.

The site is a pleasant one, and Onslow has been an important shipping- point on this railroad. The prosperity of the village has been materially affected, in its commercial interests, by reasons of the ravages of fire. No less than three destructive fires have occurred in the business portion during its seven years existence. There are three good church edifices in the village, the Presbyterians, the Methodist and the Roman Catholic. The Rev. Mr. Goodale, Pastor of the Presbyterian Church at Wyoming, supplies the Presbyterian pulpit at Onslow, and the Rev. Charles P. Mathers, of Center Junction, the Methodist pulpit. The inhabitants of the village are nearly all Americans, and the support of the Catholic Church is principally from the surrounding country. There is a good public school of two departments, and a commendable spirit of enterprise characterizes the inhabitants of the village. There is one large general store, one hardware store, two drug stores, one grocery store, one furniture store, one agricultural implement store, one lumber-yard, one grain elevator, one confectionery store, one millinery store, one art-gallery, two blacksmith-shops, two wagon and repair shops, one cheese-factory, one livery stable, one hotel, one meat market, one harness-shop, two doctors, one dentist, one lawyer, and one saloon.

The stockyards are first-class, and a good deal of shipping is done. The village is not incorporated and numbers about two hundred and fifty souls.

CENTER JUNCTION

This village, of about the same size as Onslow, is situated on the same railroad in the northern part of the township of Madison, and also at the junction of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad with the Midland. This village is quite near the geographical center of the county, and it is owing to this fact and the railroad junction, that it was named Center Junction.

The proprietors of the town were Kinsey Elwood, James A. Bronson, S. W. Johnson and John M. Squares, and the village began its existence in the fall of 1872, the year in which the Midland Railroad was completed through the township. John M. Squares has since purchased of the other proprietors their interests, and now owns the vacant lots, as well as the most of the lands adjoining the village. Owing to railroad facilities, Center Junction is a good shipping-point. The village has a good public school, and there are two church edifices, owned by the Presbyterian and the Methodist societies. The Presbyterian Church was recently dedicated, is built of brick, and is an ornament to the village. The Pastor is the Rev. Daniel Russell. The Pastor of the Methodist Church is Rev. Charles P. Mathers, and the society has a neat and commodious house of worship. There are two general stores, one drug store, one hardware store, two restaurants, one millinery store, two blacksmith-shops, one wagon and repair shop, one tin-shop, one hotel, one creamery, two depots, two express offices, one harness-shop, two grain warehouses, stockyards, two doctors and no saloons. The Postmaster is Zuri G. Isbell.

Lodge No. 245, I.O.O.F., was instituted at Center Junction in 1872, and has a membership of 35.

Lodge No. 160, A.O.U.W., was established in the spring of 1878, and is in a prosperous condition. The Lodge has had no losses since it was established.

Much of the early history is similar or identical with that of Wyoming Township, and is given at length by Dr. Calkins, elsewhere.

OXFORD TOWNSHIP

This is the southeastern township of the county. The Wapsipinicon River enters the township from the west, at about the center of the north and south line, and, crossing diagonally, leaves the township about a half-mile west of the southeast corner. The township, like all others in the county, is well watered. Along the Wapsipinicon there is sufficient timber for the ordinary uses of the inhabitants. Much of the land that was too wet for farming purposes years ago, now constitutes a part of the best land in the county. The township is well settled by emigrants from the Eastern States, and there is quite a large settlement of Bohemians.

John Bryan, who was born in Ross County, Ohio, was the first settler on the north side of the river. He left Ohio with his family in 1847, and came to Iowa and settled in Linn County, whence he moved into Oxford Township in 1849, where he still resides. He did the first breaking on the north side of the river. The first settler on the south side of the river was a Mr. Strong, the father of William Strong, who settled there the year before Mr. Bryan settled north of the river. Among those who came about the same time that Mr. Bryan did, were L. Wallston and family and Samuel Coon and family. These, with Bryan and Strong, were the only inhabitants in the township until 1850. In that year, William Bowers and family came and settled in a log cabin near the river, and was driven from his home for a time during the high-water season of that year. In the fall of 1852, Miles Carter came into the settlement and bought out William Bowers and opened up what is now one of the largest farms in the county. He died some years ago, and Ira and Julius Carter carry on the farm, which comprises about a thousand acres. About the time that Carter settled here, John Waite and Francis Bennett, with their families, came and settled in the western part of the township. Bennett was drowned in the Wapsipinicon, and John Waite resides in Wyoming. He was attacked with paralysis a year ago, which rendered him entirely speechless. About 1853, Peter Moore, John Wherry and William Bratten, with their families, settled in Oxford Township, and James Bollen, now deceased, came in soon after. Clement Guthrie and George Rathbone also settled in the town not far from the same time.

From this time on, the settlement of the township was rapid, and now it is one of the most populous in the county, aside from those in which there are large towns.

OXFORD JUNCTION

The village of Oxford Junction is situated about a mile north of the river, near the center of the township, and at the junction of the two branches of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway, and contains near two hundred inhabitants. The site was laid off into village lots in 1871, by John Bryan. Since that time, two small additions have been laid out; one by Bryan and one by George Wilson. The C., M & St. P. Company recently purchased land at this point, and the machine-shops, etc., for those divisions are to be located here. This gives to the village an air of importance, and the prospects of its improvement are quite flattering. Already building has commenced, and another addition is to be made to the town soon. The village now contains one school of fifty pupils, a recently established newspaper, one church, erected by the Lutheran Church society four years ago, three dry-goods stores, one drug store, one hardware store, one restaurant, two meat markets, one harness-shop, three grain ware-houses, two wagon and blacksmith shops, three shoe-shops, one hotel and three saloons.

OXFORD MILLS

This village, of near the size of the Junction, is situated on the south bank of the Wapsipinicon, a mile south of the above place. Its name is derived from the flouring-mill erected here about the year 1857, by Messrs. Courtright & Lathrop. It is a three-story wood building and contains the modern appointments of a first-class mill. The property has changed hands at sundry times, and is owned by S. F. McDonald, Esq. The Wapsipinicon at this point affords an excellent water-power, which, if utilized more fully, would greatly benefit the town. Messrs. Cartwright & Bristol are the proprietors of a large general store; there are two drug stores in the village, one public school, and the Methodist Church society has a good house of worship. There is also a hotel and the usual shops found in a village of the size.

HALE TOWNSHIP

This township was named in honor of the Hon. J. P. Hale, at the suggestion of Daniel Garrison, who was the first settler of the township. The township of Hale is situated west of Oxford and east of Rome, in the southern tier of townships in the county. The Wapsipinicon River crosses the township from west to east, and divides it into two nearly equal parts. Along the river there is considerable timber and there are a number of small groves; so that the township may be said to be well timbered. A good supply of building stone is found in the township and the quality is most excellent. A good share of the surface is beautiful, rolling prairie land, and the farms are in a good state of cultivation. There are three church edifices in the township; one at Pleasant Hill, one two miles southeast of that place and one at the small village of Hale. The first settlement south of the river was at what is now called Pleasant Hill, and, as stated, Daniel Garrison and family were the first settlers. Mr. Garrison emigrated from the State of Indiana, and came into Hale Township in the month of June, 1838. Pleasant Grove and the land south of it was claimed by a colored man in the year 1837, and for many years the place has been known as "Negro Point." The name was changed to Pleasant Hill at the suggestion of Miss Martha Miller, and to the satisfaction of the people of the neighborhood. The church at this place is called the Pleasant Hill Church, and the Sunday school, Pleasant Hill Sunday School. Daniel Garrison built the first log cabin the neighborhood, and the house is still standing, though it is more than forty years old. Horace Seeley came in the spring of 1839, and Lawrence Simpson and William Simpson in the fall of the same year. Lawrence Simpson was once County Surveyor. Joseph Bumgarner came in 1840, M. Q. Simpson and Silas Garrison in 1842.

On the north side of the river, the settlement was not made as early as on the south. Philip Lewis and William Cronkhite were the first and came about 1850. After them came Clement Lane, Robert Brown, William Vroman, Mrs. Sweet, Burt Smith, John Fradenburg, George Thurston, Harvey Campbell, Clement Guthrie, William Wallston, John Brigham, J. C. Austin, and others.

The Sabula, Ackley & Dakota Branch of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad crosses the north part of the township, and the small village of Hale is situated on this road. There is one general store, a blacksmith-shop, a wagon-shop, a public school and a good house of worship, belonging to the Methodist Church society. George Lewis is Postmaster of the village. Much of the early history is identical with that of the adjoining township of Rome.

GREENFIELD TOWNSHIP

This is the southwestern township of the county. The surface is generally even and unbroken, and the soil as fertile as any in the county or State. A number of small but beautiful groves, pleasantly distributed, constitute the only timber-land in the township. It is well watered by the north and the south fork of Walnut Creek and their tributaries.

The township is one of the best agricultural districts in the county, the farmhouses are good, and the farmers thrifty and prosperous. Among the early settlers of this township were John Armstrong, deceased; Amos Breed, deceased; Jonathan Raver, deceased; T. O. Bishop, A. S. Miller (J. G. Hakes was an early settler of Fairview, but now resides in Greenfield), James and I. Curtis, Ira Mead, R. D. Stephens, John Arnold, A. and E. Peet, Valentine Newman, Robert Murfield, Jonathan Goudy, Amos and John Cole, the Millers, Rosses and others.

The Sabula, Ackley & Dakota Branch of the C. M. & St. Paul Railroad crosses the north part of the township, and the small village of Martelle is situated on this road, in the northwest corner of the township. There are about one hundred inhabitants, two general stores, one drug store, one wagon-shop, one blacksmith-shop, one hardware store, one school, and the Christian Church has a good church edifice. The Baptist society also worships in the same building. There are two other churches in the township, one near the center and another in the southern part. There are a goodly number of Germans in the township, and, as elsewhere, they are among the most prosperous citizens in the county. The education of the rising generation is well cared for by erecting schoolhouses and the employment of faithful teachers.

ROME TOWNSHIP

The following, from the pen of the late R. J. Cleaveland, will be read and appreciated by all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance. Mr. Cleaveland was born in Boston, Mass., in November, 1805, and died at his residence in Olin, Jones County, on the 7th of September, A. D. 1877, at the age of nearly seventy-two years. He graduated at Harvard University in the class of 1827, and was a ripe scholar, a genuine patriot and an honest man. At the outbreak of the civil war, he sought to enlist as a volunteer, but was rejected because of his age. He was finally admitted to the ranks of the famous Iowa ninth, and, with that regiment, served until it was mustered out of service. It was due to his acquaintance at Boston that the ladies of that city presented to the regiment the magnificent colors, the details of which are related in the war history of the county, elsewhere.

The historical sketch here published was written by Mr. Cleaveland and printed in the Olin Times, a newspaper that was established at Olin, in the year 1874, by Messrs. Stickle & Arlen, but was discontinued at the end of a few months. After completing the history of Rome Township, Mr. Cleaveland, at the request of many, wrote a portion of the early history of the county, but, as the facts give by him are the same as those given elsewhere by Barrett Whittemore and others, we have thought it not necessary to repeat it in this connection.

Among the early settlers of Rome, no one now living has been more successful in material accumulation, or is held in higher esteem as a citizen, than John Merritt.

REMINISCENCES OF ROME—1840–1841

By R. J. Cleaveland

"On the 9th of September, 1840, a cold, misty rain falling, my wife and I, after fourteen days' ride, in a lumber wagon, from Logansport, Ind., arrived at the log cabin of Norman B. Seeley. This dwelling stood near where the town-well now is. Here the hearthstone and one log still remain to mark the spot. Mr. Seeley's house, saw-mill, and blacksmith-shop were the only structures here-the latter roofed with a rag carpet.

"My wife was an only daughter, and the motive which prompted this long journey was to give her mother (old Mrs. Seeley) a home with us. Thirty miles from our destination, we learned that Mrs. S. had died in July of that year. But we came on, though with ardor dampened-hopes withered. The country appeared in consonance with our feelings, a dreary waste of prairie-except Walnut Creek and Wapsie timber, 'Sugar Grove' and 'Big Woods'-to the north and west. The beautiful groves of young timber on the right bank of Walnut from the bridge to Sibballs, Creek was then all prairie, and the view without obstruction.

"On the left, above the bridge from Mr. Gilman's house to far above Moore's, was a large and fine grove of white oak long since cut down by the greedy pioneer.
"Here I commenced my first lesson in chopping, plowing, mowing and farm work in general. Here we succeeded, though poor, indeed, we both were, in all except brave hearts and strong arms, in gaining a home in these then Western wilds. I had but $2 left when we arrived.

"The Indian, wolf, and deer, and other wild animals were almost the sole occupants of the soil. N. B. Seeley, John and Joseph Merritt, Isaac Simpson, Moses Garrison, Orville, Cronkhite, George Saum, Thomas Green, Horace Seeley, Francis Sibballs, E. Booth, the Reeds, Browns, Joslyns, and others, were in Jones County before me.

"At that time, there were no railroads west of Buffalo, N. Y., and no telegraphs. The mails crept slowly and sadly along in stage-coaches, and letters were subject to 25 cents postage. There were no bridges nor stores away from the 'Father of Waters.' Many a time I have walked to Dubuque and back, bringing a pack of thirty to fifty pounds of groceries for myself and neighbors.

"The generation of to-day can hardly dream of the obstacles to be overcome-the hardships borne at that time. Difficulty is the element and resistance the work of every true man or woman. I now thank God for casting my destiny in this glorious and most beautiful State, where half my life has been passed. I glory in being a pioneer of Iowa.

"As remarked, my wife's mother died on the 9th of July, 1840, only two months before our arrival. The first American flag hoisted in Jones County was hoisted at Rome in 1840, and made by this aged lady. She allowed no other fingers to work thereon but hers, and this was her last work. Here, and at this time, was also the first liberty pole raised, the first post office located, and the first district school instituted in the county. The school was taught in the 'Sugar Grove' by T. Stivers, Esq., who was the only blacksmith here, and also Deputy Postmaster.

"The town was located by N. B. Seeley, and surveyed, platted and recorded by William Hutton, County Surveyor, in 1840. At this time, the U. S. Surveyor had just finished his work, and the corners and subdivisions were readily found.

"We lived the first two years in a little cabin opposite Smith's mill. In the winter of 1840-41, my wife taught school in our cabin six hours each day, while I was absent cutting timber for fencing and for building a home. I look back on those two years as the happiest spent time of our lives; hope was strong and bright within, and physical vigor perfect.

"In the spring of 1841, there were ferried across the Walnut two barrels of Illinois whisky. These arrivals were succeeded by more of the same spiritual character for about fifteen years.

"In the year 1841, the patriarch who dealt in the spiritual articles aforesaid built the house now occupied by Uncle Holden. The building now occupied by F. O. Carpenter, and the one where the widow of Thomas Connelly now lives, were also built the same year.

"In the same year, John Hannon, who was a skilled bricklayer, stonecutter and mason, also took up his abode here. He and Seeley blasted a prairie bowlder, and by much hard and constant labor made therefrom a set of buhrstones, which ground excellent corn-meal and very fair flour. This was indeed an eventful era in the lives of the settlers here, as previously they had to go a great distance, most frequently to the Mississippi River, in order to reach a mill. But after a few years this mill was discontinued on account of a defective dam and lack of water.

"One most important character of this period I must not omit-the Methodist circuit-rider, who has done so much for religion and humanity, who defied the elements and the hardships of this new country, and dispensed the bread of life to the hardy pioneer, men of culture as they were, counting comfort and ease as dust compared to the happiness of saving souls. Elders Rathbone and Hayden were among the first of these, and labored here in 1841. The former now resides at Marion. Both were men of culture, urbane in manners and never weary in doing good.

"In July, 1842, the house now owned and occupied by N. M. Everhart, Esq., was erected by myself. It was for some years the largest house in the county. We occupied it before completion, and passed with only a cooking-stove the severest winter experienced in our lives. I feel confident that the few old settlers remaining will never forget the winter of 1842-43.

"I think it was in the fall of 1841 that the first court was held in the county, being in a log Court House in Edinburg, not far from the present county Poor House. All who attended court then went prepared to camp out and do their own cooking. The United States Marshal attended to the paying of jurors, which was about all the coin that came into the territory for six years. Wheat was then the common medium of barter and exchange. We always had uncommon lively and jolly times in attendance at court then among some very remarkable and sage worthies, some of whom I shall have occasion to mention hereafter. Judge Wilson, of Dubuque, officiated, always coming with gun and dogs to enjoy a little shooting as well as to attend to his graver (legal) duties. But the most remarkable person at that time was Uncle Francis Sibbalds, an Irishman, with all the odd, racy and peculiar characteristics of his countrymen. He lived at that time just over the town line, in what is now Hale Township. If his conduct and character were singular, his appearance was no less so. He talked with the richest brogue, ardent in his friendship as in is hatred, illiterate, but warm-hearted and outspoken. In short, there was so much unison between us that we were warm friends as long as be lived. Previous to coming to Iowa, he had committed matrimony with an elderly Yankee lady-a school-marm, sometimes called old maid-a lady very peculiar, as such ladies generally are, but of fair literary attainments for that day, and of high moral and religious character, and who was justly reverenced and respected by her husband. I wish, for the sake of truth, it were possible for me to give a clear and accurate personal description of Uncle Sibbalds, but nothing I can say will do him justice! A man of medium size, with rather a worn appearance, indicating hard labor and exposure to the elements, rather past his prime, but on first sight all these were swallowed up and lost sight of in viewing his mouth; so vast, yawning and capacious was it, that when opened, it extended nearly from ear to ear! No less remarkable than the nose of the Grand Duke of Choss Johannisberger, only it was in this case his mouth instead of his nose, and unfortunately being somewhat deaf, he kept it open more than was safe or expedient, in order to hear better. And this brings to mind a good joke they got on him while at court in Edinburg. One of the lawyers, an unusually small but carefully-dressed gentleman-in short, a perfect little Petit Maitre-being called for by the Judge, everybody hunting for and nobody able to find him, the precious time of the court wasted, an awful pause pervading the court room, a wag had the temerity to tell His Honor he believed old Uncle Sibbalds had greased and swallowed him, as he (Sibbalds) had told him over an hour ago that he felt quite hungry! The court room rang with laughter, Judge, jury and all, and, as bad luck would have it, the little lawyer coming in at that moment, and ignorant of the cause, little dreaming that he was partly the subject of it, served only to add to the uproar to such a degree that it could not be stopped. The Sheriff had to clear the house, and all business came to a stand for the rest of the forenoon. If I should live centuries, I can never forget the scene. The little lawyer stupefied with amazement and anger and outraged dignity, and Uncle Sibbalds grinning wider and more ghastly than before. In the midst of the uproar, another wag coolly suggested, 'If that had actually happened, the good man had got more law in his belly than all the other lawyers had in their heads.' And this remark did not tend to lessen the noise and shouting, but rather to increase it.

"At the time I am now attempting to describe, indeed during the decade from 1840 to 1850, intemperance ruled with despotic sway the early settlements of Iowa, and yet there prevailed a far more friendly spirit than now.

"We exchanged frequent and friendly visits with Denson, where Massillon now is, and ten miles below, near Toronto, with Samuel Solesby, of Pioneer Grove; Capt. S. P. Higginson, of Mariner's Grove, near Tipton; with Col. Preston, Mayor McKean, and others, of Marion. Neighbors were then few and far off, but kind and true, and selfishness little known or practiced.

"As I am a very modest man, I dislike extremely having to speak of myself so often, but the thread of the narrative would be broken did I not do it.

"It was deemed necessary, at that time, to elect a Justice of the Peace in 1841, and, although never having any aspirations for office, I was elected to that dignity almost without opposition. This was strange indeed, as I was, perhaps, almost the only Whig in the village of Rome. Being what I was, a deadly foe to whisky, and never bending the pliant knee to Baal, it was somewhat strange that I was elected to the office. With these preliminary remarks let us go on. The portrait of old Ben. Smith rises now on my mental vision, in all its native deformity!

"Fancy, if you can, an animal on two legs, in the shape of fat and swollen limbs, suffering much from asthma and gout; a man, flat, flaccid and flabby, misshapen, unwieldy in form, with a head and face on top of it that completely baffles description: The hair white and erect, like hogs' bristles, the face rosy and rubicund, the nose studded with divers blooming pimples, the eyes twinkling like a sow's when contemplating mischief, and with thick, sensual lips.

"This patriarch had a large family of sons and daughters, was a widower, and depended on his children for support, and also on the profits of a whisky saloon, with cards and dice in his own house. Every Saturday night the orgies were celebrated in the old house where uncle Holden now lives, till the small hours of the morning; genial spirits from the surrounding country coming in from a long distance to aid and assist the aged patriarch in conducting them; John Royal playing the fiddle with unwearied assiduity and tenacity, and all went merry as a marriage bell, unless it was diversified with a slight bit of a fight, with perhaps an eye badly bunged up and closed for the time being, or a thumb partly bit off! But these little incidents only served to add variety and raciness to the scene, and never for a moment stopped the general hilarity. But enough! Let us for the present draw the veil of pity and of charity over this mortifying and disgusting portrait. And let it serve as a warning, a beacon-light to all now coming on the stage of action, to avoid drunkenness and sinfulness of all kinds, if they wish to live useful and happy lives.

"The question naturally arises, what became of poor old Uncle Ben? The answer to it is a sad one indeed. After setting a baleful, blighting influence and example here for eight consecutive years, he started, in the spring of 1849, to revisit the scenes of his childhood in Western New York, and subsequently died miserably of cholera, on board a boat on the Upper Ohio, among strangers, with no friend to smoothe his dying pillow.

* * * * * * * * * *

"I remarked that I was elected Justice of the Peace. I held my first court in the log cabin opposite the present mill, in the fall of 1841, Uncle Ben Smith being the plaintiff, and another most worthy sage, very partial to whisky (whom we will not name as he still lives here), was the defendant. The cause of action was a very grave and knotty one, and which would have puzzled the wisdom of Solomon himself, viz., a pumpkin! These two sages had gardens adjoining, and Uncle Ben's vines, as pumpkin-vines will sometimes, ran through the fence into the adjoining lot and bore the best pumpkins in the said lot, with not one only but several large inviting looking pumpkins-more than defendant could stand, doubtless thinking (and with good reason) that the said pumpkins belonged to him. Be this as it may, he appropriated the largest one he could find to his own use, hence the suit. There were at that day many (in common parlance called pettifoggers, a phrase I always disliked) attorneys at law. There were two of pre-eminently brilliant qualifications and parts, who left their many competitors far in the rear, and who were generally pitted against each other, as they both resided in Fairview Precinct, viz., Uncle Clement Russell and Hon. John Leonard. Law cost something in those days, as it does in the present. It was then as now-l-a-w law, with a c-l-a-w claw. If you are fond of pure vexation and sweet procrastination, you are just in a situation to enjoy a suit at law. It was probably owing to this fact, viz., the great expense of this luxury, that induced both parties at this, my first court, to attend to it themselves, and being (as they both were) well stimulated and fortified with whisky, they fancied themselves perfectly grounded in law, and able to go on with it. The case, as you see at a glance, was a perplexing and knotty one. There was much to be said on both sides, and both equally plausible. Knowing this as I did, and dreading the torrents of eloquence apparently without end, and not being overstocked with patience, I resolved when the court was called to cut the Gordian knot which none could untie. With that peculiarly persuasive, winning, bland tone and manner which all who know me know to be innately mine, I remarked to them that we were emphatically, in this new country, a band of brothers; that nothing was so pleasing to the Great Father of us all as brotherly love and harmony, and, over and above this consideration, nothing conduced so much to our temporal welfare as harmony, etc.; told them what an insignificant thing it was to go to law about-a pumpkin, nothing else; the great difficulty attending a correct solution of the case, inherent in its very nature; and, concluding, in my judgment there was no cause of action, adding, at the same time, I should give up my fees and hoped they would all do so likewise. Had they not been both of them pretty drunk (Uncle Ben always feeling rich in that condition) I doubt but my eloquence would have been wasted on them. As it was, they yielded to my advice, shook hands, took a rousing snort of whisky all around, the court adjourned and the hostile sages were soon after seen engaged in a sociable game of cards with the hospitable whiskey jug within easy reach of them, and to complete and perfect the harmony, John Royal took his fiddle and struck up a jig or Highland fling, and mirth, hilarity and good feeling prevailed all around-Uncle Ben's four lusty and strapping daughters, always ready to trip it on the light fantastic toe, found partners ready to their hand, and they kept it up as usual until the small hours of the morning, no King on his throne richer, happier, or more independent than Uncle Ben.

"After the disposition of the case spoken of, I felt as if a mountain was lifted from my back, and being released from the onerous duties incumbent on me, I went about my usual avocations, receiving the congratulations of my friends at the issue, Uncle Sibbalds himself grinning all the time, with evident symptoms of uncommon satisfaction! I wish to add, that in that early day when a lawsuit was to come off, all other business for the time being came to a halt; no one could forego the intense delight of attending and drinking in wisdom from the lips of the legal oracles of the day, as well as from the jug! Some of the richest scenes I ever went through with occurred afterward, at courts held in the north room of our new house, the carpenter's bench and tools being there at the time. At one suit, Mrs. C. got a dinner for twenty men. A lawsuit, like raising a barn, could not go on without a large crowd attending; and lubricated, as it always was, with whisky, how could all help going on secundem artem. As a matter of course, it could not. But I crave pardon of my readers for taking up so much of their valuable time.

* * * * * * * * * *

"I have taken much pains to ascertain who was the first white settler in this county, and from the best information I could obtain, I am satisfied Hugh Bowen was the man, that beautiful tract of country in Richland Township being named after him. I recollect well his telling me he was in the Black Hawk war, and that, only a few years after, he came into this county, probably in 1836. Perhaps a few of the salient points of his character may prove interesting to the readers of to-day.

"He was a bachelor at this time, in his prime, erect as an Indian and clad in buckskin like one; of great energy and rare simplicity of character. He was our first Sheriff, serving in that capacity for many years, and, if I should add, the best the county ever had, it need cause no blush to mantle the cheeks of his worthy successors. He was a noble specimen of a Western man, untainted by his vices, and entirely free from all the silken disguises, subterfuges and hypocrisies which prevail in old settled countries, and in those grades of society miscalled civilized, refined, fashionable, etc.; undaunted and fearless as a lion in the discharge of his duty; simple and confiding as a child, in all the little suavities and amenities of life, and illy prepared to guard against the advances of the well-dressed fancy-man, black leg, gambler of the present day.

"After many years' absence in the then Far West, he concluded to visit once more his native State, Ohio, when the first railroad from the East reached the Father of Waters. Although traveling with a friend, and cautioned again and again against pickpockets, he was rifled of some $40 or $50, all he had, long before he got to the end of his journey. On obtaining the first view of that monstrum horrendun, a locomotive engine, his wonder and amazement were unbounded! Fearful that the train might start without him (instinct with life and power, more than human as it was), he insisted on sleeping (camping), in the cars all night! I have not met him for many long years, and regret to add, the last I heard of him he was at Denver, Colo., much reduced in circumstances. He was Sheriff of this county many years in succession.

"It is highly probably that other portions of the county kept pace with those already named in its early settlement, but of this I cannot speak positively, being, like most of the early settlers, dependent on my days' work for my daily bread, and never leaving home unless on matters of urgent business.

"The county, in 1839-40, was divided into four road districts, viz: Bowen's Prairie was No. 1; Buffalo Fork, No. 2; Walnut Fork, No. 3, and Farm Creek No. 4, with a Supervisor in each district, to keep the roads in order.

* * * * * * * * * *

"The first saw and grist mills in the county were erected by George Walworth, on the Buffalo Fork of the Wapsipinicon in 1838, (where, at a later day, the Messrs. Fisher erected spacious mills), and were in full blast when I came here, in 1840. I met the gentleman late in the fall of 1840, at the house of my brother-in-law, N. B. Seeley, and, from that time until he left the county, some five or six years, we were always on the most cordial and friendly terms. He was the first Representative in the Territorial Legislature at Iowa City, with other counties attached (Cedar and Linn, I think), and served in that capacity many years with great acceptance to his constituents. He was a bachelor, his sister keeping house with him, and a man in strong contrast to all and everything around him. He was then in his prime, and a finer looking man I have seldom, if ever, met. He was, in manner, appearance, dress and address, emphatically a gentleman, as I understand that term, viz., it is inborn, not infused; it springs spontaneously from the heart. In other words, a man may be a gentleman without being a Christian, but a true Christian must be a gentleman. Warm-hearted, cordial, hospitable, public-spirited, he possessed the faculty of adapting himself to all kinds and classes of men, and was the soul, the life, of every crowd he chanced to mingle with. He possessed, in a high degree, that rare and beautiful combination, termed suaviter in modo, cum fortiter in re, and, as I often thought, was perfectly out of his element in a new county. We have had many good times together at his house and at mine, and, when he left us, I felt we had lost a man the county and State could ill afford to spare. It was with deep and profound grief I heard of his sudden and untimely death, in Texas, many years ago. The high respect and ardent friendship I cherished for the man, the grateful sense I shall always feel for his kindness and hospitality to me personally, over and above his public services to the county and the Territory, would not permit me to pass him by with a more brief or less eulogistic notice. He has taken his last long journey whither we all are so rapidly following."

OLIN IN 1879

Olin, named after D. A. Olin, General Superintendent of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad, is beautifully located on the west bank of the Wapsipinicon River, upon the central portion of Section 13 in Rome Township. It was first called Elkford, then Walnut Fork, afterward Rome, and now Olin. It is an important shipping-point on the Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad, containing a population of about seven hundred inhabitants. It is surrounded by a beautiful rolling prairie, occupied by a thrifty farming community. It has a good grist-mill, a woolen-mill, prosperous schools and churches, and the Olin College has recently been organized and incorporated, and will soon have a commodious and comfortable college building. A public library and reading-room are contemplated. The city of Olin was incorporated in 1878. The following are the city officers: Mayor, N. Barnhard; Recorder, H. Jeffries; Treasurer, Samuel Easterly. Council—J. A. White, J. W. Jamison, James Dayton, C. L. Porter, W. H. Dicus, William Scoles. The Council are strictly temperate men.

There are four church organizations-Methodist, Baptist, United Brethern and Advent. The Methodist denomination has a commodious church edifice. The Baptist and Advents hold services in the public-school building. The Pastor of the Methodist Church is Rev. J. Hurrell. None of the other denominations have a settled Pastor.

The public school contains three departments—Primary, Intermediate and Grammar, and has a very good school building. The teachers are as follows: C. F. McGrew, Principal and Instructor in the Grammar Department; Miss P. Robinson, Intermediate Department; Miss L. Holmes, Primary Department.

The College was organized September 1, 1878; incorporated August 1, 1879. Its pupilage for the first year was forty-eight. Of its pupils, nine received certificates from the County Superintendent.

The Trustees are as follows: A. J. Dalby, President; C. L. Porter, Secretary; N. M. Everhart, Treasurer; John Merritt, D. R. Carpenter, Andrew Coppess, John M. Rummel, W. V. Field, J. B. Ingersoll, J. A. White, J. W. Jamison, L. K. Rese, J. Scoles, J. Whitmore, Jonathan Easterly, F. S. Dunklee, C. H. Derr, John Hess, Jacob Starry, William Gordon.

There will be three distinct courses of study-Preparatory, Scientific and Classical. The first college class proper will be organized at the commencement of the fall term, and it is desirable that those who contemplate a three-years' course with diploma, should be present at that time. Music, instrumental and vocal, will be taught to those who desire it.

The studies taught in the various courses are: Fundamental-Reading, Spelling, Writing, Grammar, United States History, Drawing, Rhetoric, Logic, Elocution, Mental and Moral Science, Theory and Practice of Teaching, Constitution of the United States. Mathematics-Arithmetic, Book-Keeping, Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Mensuration, Surveying, Conic Sections, Calculus. Natural Sciences-Geography, Geology, Mineralogy, Physiology, Botany, Natural History, Astronomy. Languages-Greek, Latin, French and German. Music-Vocal and Instrumental.

C. L. Porter, A. M., Principal (biographical sketch elsewhere), is a graduate of Amherst College, has been a professional teacher for sixteen years, and is thoroughly recommended by the State Superintendent and others. Miss Laura J Hendy, teacher of music, is a skillful teacher of the piano and organ. The teacher of the Preparatory Department has not yet been selected. Other teachers and professors will be added as occasion may require. The Bible is the corner-stone of this institution.
Tuition, per quarter of twelve weeks, $6. Fee for incidental expenses, per quarter, 50 cents. Tuition in Preparatory Department, per quarter, $3. Instrumental music, per twenty-four lessons, $8. Tuition payable quarterly upon admission.

The College occupies at present the largest hall in town, is handsomely seated, and is comfortable and convenient. Board can be obtained in private families at $2.50 to $3 per week. Preparations are being made to erect a large stone building in the spring of 1880.

SOCIETIES

Of those there are four: Masons, Odd Fellows, United Workmen and the Olin Temperance League.

Ancient Landmark Lodge, No. 200, A.F.&A.M., was organized November 20, 1866. It was chartered by the Grand Lodge June 5, 1867. The first officers were: Eli Walker, W.M.; Westley Southwick, S.W.; Andrew Coppess, J.W.; D. E. Rummel, Sec.; Timothy Stivers, Treas.; N. B. Connor, S.D.; G. W. Miller, J.D.; R. J. Anderson, Tiler. The Lodge has a membership of forty-eight, owns a good hall, very well furnished, and has a small fund at interest. The present officers are: I. B. Southwick, W.M.; W. J. Merritt, S.W.; G. W. Miller, J.W.; W. Southwick, Sec.; C. H. Derr, Treas.; H. B. Harrison, S.D.; C. W. B. Derr, J.D.; J. T. Gilman, Tiler. The Lodge has lost two members by death.

The Olin Lodge, I.O.O.F., was organized February 3, 1876. The following were the first officers elected: George Stivers, N.G.; E. R. Sealls, V.G.; L. K. Rose, Treas.; J. W. Jamison, Rec. Sec.; G. H. Mason, Per. Sec. The present officers are as follows: V. Slife, N.G.; J. F. Butters, V.G.; S. P. Slife, Rec. Sec.; G. H. Mason, Treas.

Olin Lodge, No. 90, A.OU.W.—Organized January 17, 1877. Charter members: W. A. Seeley, J. A. White, G. W. Miller, H. Rummel, A. E. Carpenter, S. L. Easterly, James Dayton, J. W. Jamison, Daniel Starry, James Slife, E. R. Sealls, A. Barker, H. Benfield, A. Gearhart, P. H. Driscoll, T. B. Everett, Edward White, W. F. Duncan, J. C. Williams, J. H. Miller, A. Glick. The following were the first officers elected: H. Rummel, Master; E. R. Sealls, G.F.; W. A. Seeley, O.; A. Gearhart, Receiver; James Dayton, F.; S. L. Easterly, Rec.; J. W. Jamison, Guide; J. C. Williams, P.M.W.; A. E. Carpenter, I.W.; A. Barker, O.W. The present officers are as follows: John Figeley, Master; E. Bedell, G.F.; A. E. Carpenter, O.; A. Gearhart, Receiver; S. L. Easterly, F.; T. J. Townsend, Rec.; W. F. Duncan, Guide; G. W. Miller, P.M.W.; J. H. Miller, I.W.; D. Starry, O.W.

The Olin Temperance League—This is an organization for the promotion of temperance. It holds its sessions at the Methodist Church, each alternate Tuesday. The exercises consist of discussions, essays, declamations, readings, music, etc. Its basic is the "Murphy Pledge." The present officers are: C. H. McGrew, President; Miss Phemie Robinson, Vice President; Miss Carrie Hull, Secretary; C. L. Poster, Chorister.

Within a mile of Olin are three most excellent stone quarries. The stone taken from these is a soft, magnesian limestone (Niagara group; Upper Silurian), and is of the quality and texture as that of the celebrated quarries at Anamosa. There are two good lime-kilns in the immediate neighborhood. Good sand for building purposes is found on the margin of Walnut Creek, which empties into the Wapsipinicon at this point. Within the corporate limits is an excellent clay bank for the manufacture of brick.

The people of Olin are mainly from the Eastern States, and have brought their thrifty habits with them. There is little or no foreign population. Olin has one of the best brass bands in the State, Henry Jefferies, Leader. The hotel is the Olin House, admirably kept by R. H. Jordan, proprietor.

(We are indebted to Prof. C. L. Porter for preparing the history of Olin.—EDITOR.)

CASTLE GROVE TOWNSHIP

This township, according to the United States survey, is numbered 86 north, west of Range 4.

A large portion of the township is high rolling prairie, interspersed with ravines and glades, which, by draining, make the very best of meadow lands. There are several creeks running through the township, which afford excellent opportunities for stock-raising. There is quite a large body of timber in the northeast portion of the township which, by economical usage, will furnish a supply for the needs of the inhabitants in this direction for a long time to come. The inhabitants of this township are a thriving, industrious and preserving people. The never-failing appendage of a thrifty Yankee farmer-a good barn-is frequently found on these prairies, though many of the inhabitants are descendants from the Emerald Isle. The citizens of this township, in common with the people of the other portions of the county, show their appreciation of good morals by erecting schoolhouses, in which the youth may be trained up to usefulness and kept from idleness. The monotony of the prairie is frequently relieved by trees which have been set out for shade and ornament. Altogether, the township is desirably and pleasantly located. The soil is fertile, and the healthfulness of the people most excellent.

The Castle Grove Post Office is situated near the center of the township, and James M. King is Postmaster. There are three churches in the township, two Protestant and one Catholic Church.

The Castle Grove Mill is in the northeast part of the township, and is owned by Levi Berlin. The mill was built in 1872, by Berlin & Stambaugh, at a cost of $10,000. There are two run of stone, and the capacity of the mill is about one hundred bushels of wheat per day.

Among the early settlers of this township were Simeon Forman, Thomas Galligan, McLaughlins, Kehoes, Hogans, Rearricks, Starrs, Deischer, Heisey, Downer and others. There is no village in this township.

CHURCHES

The Church of the Immaculate Conception, in Castle Grove, is situated in the northern part of the township, and was erected by the Roman Catholics in the year 1877, at a cost of about $20,000. Mr. John Kenan was the architect and Mr. M. Doyle, of Anamosa, the contractor. The edifice is a remarkably fine one and does honor to the members of the Church in Castle Grove. It is, without doubt, the finest church edifice in the State outside the largest cities.

Evangelical Church, of Castle Grove Township. This church was organized in 1855. The first minister was Rev. John Miller. Daniel High was the first Class-Leader. A church edifice was built in the year 1876, at a cost of $1,400. Present membership, twenty-two. Pastor in charge, Rev. Daniel Fink. The first Trustees were Daniel Deischer, Henry Heisey, John Heisey, John Wint and Benjamin Rider.

The present Board of Trustees are Daniel Deischer, Benjamin Rider, John Heisey, John Kline and Madison Franks.

Castle Grove Baptist Church—This church was organized on the 5th of July, 1874. James Starr was elected Clerk and B. F. Searles and Jerome Scott, Deacons. The church edifice was dedicated September 26, 1876. The following Pastors have served the Church: Revs. J. W. Thompson, L. H. Thompson, W. C. Archer and J. G. Johnson, the present Pastor. There were twelve members at the time of organization, and there are now twenty-nine.

RICHLAND TOWNSHIP

This township is east of Monticello and west of Washington, and is one of the first settled in the county. The south fork of the Maquoketa River crosses the southwest corner of the township, and by this means and numerous creeks, the whole is well watered. About one-third of the area is as fine prairie land as there is in the State, and the balance is timber-land. The prairie is in the northwest corner, and here the village of Bowen's Prairie is situated. Twenty years ago, this was a village of considerable importance, but the building-up of the town of Monticello caused the removal of businesses to that place. The following heads of families are found at Bowen's Prairie Village: E. S. Blodgett, Cyrus Whittemore, William Whittemore, Widow Heims, Frederick Pennaman, N. C. Rowley and James Craig. N. C. Rowley is the Postmaster. There are two churches in the village and a German Church in the western portion of the township, about two miles south of Bowen's Prairie. We were unable to get the history of the Methodist Church at the village, or the German Church, when we were in that part of the county.

The timbered portion of the township is settled principally by Germans and Irish. A portion of the town of Cascade is in the northeast corner of the township, and an excellent water-power is here afforded by means of the north fork of the Maquoketa.

The Bowen's Prairie district constitutes one of the loveliest landscapes in the State, and, had the village secured a railroad would have been one of the most important towns in the county.

HISTORICAL SKETCH OF BOWEN'S PRAIRIE

By Barrett Whittemore

The following, by Barrett Whittemore, though somewhat lengthy, is so entertaining that we give it entire, knowing full well that every subscriber to the Jones County History will be delighted with anything from the pen of "The Old Schoolmaster of Bowen's Prairie."

"Bowen's Prairie originally included all that prairie region west of Cascade, which lies between the two Maquoketa Rivers, and east of Plum Creek, and including a part of the counties of Dubuque, Jones and Delaware, comprising two townships of land, more or less. It derives its name from Hugh Bowen, who, in company with John Flinn, in the year 1836, first visited this locality; and, being charmed by its beautiful scenery, fertile soil, salubrious springs, and other desirable attractions, they selected adjoining claims. That of the former being well known as the "Bowen Farm," and the latter lying immediately west of it, and now owned by Ebenezer Little and Barrett Whittemore. The favorable reports which these adventurers gave of the country stimulated others to visit this section, and the same year, Moses Collins and Joshua Johnston came and staked off claims north of the two just named, and now owned by William Beatty and Robert Bunting's widow. Alfred Weatherford also arrived the same season, and, in the absence of Mr. Flinn, took possession of his claim, and, by intimidation, succeeded in holding it. About this time, Thomas S. Denson, Gillespie Laughlin, Charles Johnston and Franklin Dalby came and selected claims in the same neighborhood, all now or lately owned respectively by Joseph Hickman, William Brazelton, Philip Cline and Franklin Dalby. In the same year, the Delong family, consisting of father and mother, and their five sons, William, Parley, Perry, John and Jacob, and a daughter Susan, took possession of the Falls and the vicinity known as Cascade. They put up two cabins on the premises, one being situated about four rods west of the Falls and the other near the present site of G. G. Banghart's store. As there seemed, however, to be a prospect that their claim would be contested, they sold the water-power and the land lying east of the river, with a narrow belt 200 feet wide lying west of the river, to John Sherman, who afterward disposed of one-half his interest to Hugh Bowen. Near this time, Daniel Varvel and William Clark took possession of the present site of Monticello, where they built a commodious log house, and opened adjoining farms. About the 1st of January, 1837, Thomas Dickson, with his wife and two children, Elizabeth and William, moved to the prairie, laying claim to the premises now occupied by the Yousse family. After living on, and improving the same several years, he sold his claim to Benedict Yousse, who has been a resident on the same some thirty-three years. In the same year, William Moore, Sr., with his three sons, William, Thomas and John, came and took up claims south of the Yousse farm just mentioned. Two of the sons, William and John have lately died, and Thomas is still living on the original claim. The father, William Moore, a hale and hearty old gentleman, after leaving Bowen's Prairie, bought the Beardsley farm, some seven miles west of Monticello, where he lived until two years ago, when he died. I will illustrate some of the inconveniences of the good olden time, even extending to the important act of getting married, by relating the following incident: Mr. Moore, being a widower, and deeming it not good for man to be alone, sought a helpmeet, and succeeded in finding one who was willing to accommodate him, provided the necessary preliminaries could be compiled with. But here was a dilemma. Ministers and Justices of the Peace were not as plentiful as at present, and to obtain the services of either would be attended with delay, expense and trouble. A Justice, however, was found, in the person of Jacob Hamilton, then living at Whitewater in Dubuque County; and, being sent for, he came, but on his arrival, found himself in a different county, and, therefore, out of his jurisdiction. Here, then, was another difficulty to be surmounted. But necessity is truly the mother of invention.

"The parties could all walk over the line into Dubuque County, and then all would be right. So, shortly after, having made the necessary arrangements for a foot-tramp of some three or four miles, a party of five, including the important personage of Justice, with Thomas Dickson and wife as witnesses, set out on foot, and in due time reached the desired locality, just within the precinct of Dubuque County. And here, under the blue canopy of heaven, surrounded by the forest oaks, the knot was tied, the blessing pronounced, and the parties dispersed; and this is the history of the first wedding on Bowen's Prairie, just forty years ago.

"The United States surveys of the public lands in this vicinity, were made in the years 1836-37. As many claims were taken and improvements made previous to these surveys, some of the claimants were much annoyed by the Government lines passing through their improvements, thus frequently, essentially interfering with private boundaries established by the claimants themselves. A small inclosure was liable, in certain contingencies, to fall on four different sections, frequently placing the building on one section and the improved land on another. To the married man, this was of comparatively minor importance, as he would have the ability to purchase whatever he wanted. But these contingencies often made sad havoc with the poor settler's anticipations, whose means were frequently limited to the purchase of forty or, at most, eighty acres. A compromise in such cases was frequently made by accommodating neighbors, but selfishness, then as now, was not an uncommon element in the human heart.

"The 16th Section, being reserved for school purposes, and placed under the control of the State, was liable to be kept out of market for a series of years, and, when offered for sale, was put up with such limitations in regard to price, as was deemed most advantageous to the school fund. Therefore, should a settler have made valuable improvements on such lands, he was liable to be subjected to pay a higher price per acre for his lands than he would have been had such land been under the control of the General Government. The cutting and using of timber on such lands, except under certain restrictions, was declared by law an indictable offense.

"On the 1st of January, 1838, Barrett Whittemore first took up his permanent residence on Bowen's Prairie, and commenced improving the premises now occupied by himself, and including the farm immediately east, now owned by J. Hickman, consisting of 100 acres of prairie and 80 acres of timber. His first domicile was a log cabin 14x16 feet, built some three rods north of his present residence, and into which he moved on the 19th day of May in the same year entering into a temporary partnership with T. Dickson, and boarding with him.

"On the 28th of February, in this year, John Gillman, a Methodist minister, held the first religious meeting on Bowen's Prairie and probably the first in the north part of the county. He preached here regularly every three weeks afterward, during his stay on this circuit.

"On the 24th of April following, a most melancholy event transpired on the prairie, filling the whole community with gloom, and the family immediately interested with unspeakable anguish. The circumstances were these: We had finished our out-door work and chores, glad to enter the house to sit down and enjoy the cheerful fire blazing upon the hearth, which the cold, bleak northeast wind and rain rendered peculiarly grateful to our chilled bodies. Darkness had set in, rendering the out-door desolation doubly so. Suddenly we were aroused by a knock on the door, and the entrance of two of our neighbors, who informed us that a boy was lost. Alfred Denson, a remarkably bright and amiable lad of six years, and the light of the household, had wandered from the house and was lost, either on the cold, bleak prairie, or in the still more dismal forest. The instant the information was communicated, we felt that the poor boy's fate was sealed. If he had wandered into the thick woods, he might possibly survive until morning, but if, as we feared, he had strayed out into the wide, unprotected prairie, we felt that his sleep that night would be 'the sleep from which there is no awakening.'

"Dark and dreary and uncomfortable as was the night, the citizens were aroused, and started out with the resolution to do what they could. But the night was intensely dark; we were destitute of lanterns, and were obliged to depend on torches to guide us in our travels, and these were comparatively useless on account of the strong wind and rain. We expected to get lost ourselves, but this did not deter us. Our first design was to search the forest in the vicinity of the child's home, and to build fires in different places, if possibly the child might discover some of them; they also might be guiding-stars to the searchers.

"There was a timber road leading into the forest, which we thought possibly the boy might have taken, and, examining it particularly with the light of our torches, we discovered his track leading into the forest. This encouraged us to proceed, thinking now we had ascertained the direction he had taken. We were also the more encouraged in regard to the safety of the boy, as, if we should not find him that night, he might obtain a shelter which would save him from perishing. Soon, however, we found another track of his retracing steps, and leading back into the prairie. On this discovery, we were thrown into confusion in regards to the course we should take. We knew not whether he would abide by the road, and thus reach the open prairie, or whether, in the darkness, he might have left it and still be wandering in the forest. We, however, followed it, and again discovered his track near the northeast corner of Hugh Bowen's field, and some 100 rods out into the open prairie. Here we took rails from the fence, and built a large fire, which could be seen all through the settlement. We built the fire also, partly, as guide to the child, if he should be fortunate enough to see it, and partly as a pilot to ourselves.

"Hoping that possibly he might, in his wanderings, have reached some of the neighbors, we visited those living on the north side of the prairie, to wit: Moses Collins, Charles Johnston and Franklin Dalby. Not discovering any further trace of the child, we proceeded thence westerly on a neighborhood road, became bewildered, losing our track and course. We then commenced shouting, and obtained a response from the elder Mr. Dalby. We groped our way to his residence, and deeming it advisable to hunt no further before daylight, we encamped by the fire for the night.

"For two succeeding days, the whole community, including Cascade and Monticello, comprising some thirty persons, made a systematic search through the timber, north and south of the settlement, and the prairie between, but without success, and it was not until the fourth day afterward that the lifeless body of the boy was discovered nearly covered up with tall slough-grass, some eighty rods north of the present residence of T. W. Little, and nearly two miles distant from his home. He doubtless perished on the first night of his wanderings. The sympathizing neighbors immediately collected and assisted as best they could in performing the last rites of burial. There was no minister to officiate. A little band of sincere mourners bore the child to its last resting-place, there to rest in peace until the resurrection morn. And this marks the era of the first death and burial on Bowen's Prairie.

"On the 26th of May, in the same year, Williams Collins first visited the prairie, taking up a claim on the north side-now more familiarly known as the Collins farm. He soon afterward moved to the prairie with his wife and two small children-Mary and Ann. The elder one, Mary, is living in Delaware County and is the widow of the late Dr. Moses Perley. Mr. Collins was a native of Kentucky, and first came up the Mississippi River about the year 1827, landing at Galena, and thence proceeding to the Blue Mounds, in Wisconsin, where he resided some six years, when, in 1833, at the first settlement of Iowa, he came to Dubuque and commenced mining on Catfish Creek, some two miles southwest of Dubuque. Thence he moved to Durango, where in January, 1835, he married Kezah Hogan, a daughter of David Hogan, with whom, as above stated, he moved to Bowen's Prairie. I do not feel justified in closing his history just here. Born in Kentucky, he possessed in an eminent degree that frankness, hospitality, that stern independence, that delicate sense of honor, which marks the true Kentuckian. His wife, also, was a model woman, remarkable for her intelligence and grace, and for all those noble qualities of mind and heart which characterize the true Christian lady. She died suddenly on the 30th day of September, 1842, leaving a family of five helpless children and a broken-hearted husband. During the gold excitement, Mr. Collins went to California, where he remained fourteen years and then returned to Bowen's Prairie. After remaining here some five years, he moved to Warrensburg, Johnson County, Mo., where he died some years ago.

"On the 24th of May, 1838, the Delong brothers raised a saw-mill some two miles above Cascade, being the first saw-mill built in this vicinity. On the 12th of June following, the Territory of Wisconsin was divided by act of Congress, to take effect on the 3d of July following, that portion west of the Mississippi River to constitute the Territory of Iowa. On the 11th of September, 1838, the first general election in Jones County was held at the house of Barrett Whittemore, for the purpose of electing a Delegate to the legislative Assembly of the Territory of Iowa. Eleven votes were cast. Mr. Whittlesey, a candidate from Cedar County, was present. On the 7th of December following, a meeting of the citizens of Jones County was held at the house of Barrett Whittemore for the purpose of taking the preliminary steps toward the organization of Jones County. Hugh Bowen was Chairman of the meeting and William Hutton, Secretary. On the 24th of January, 1839, the county of Jones was organized by act of the Legislature, to take effect on the 1st of June following; also on the same date, January 24th, an act was passed appointing three Commissioners to locate the county seat of Jones County. The names of the Commissioners were: Simeon Gardner, of Clinton County; Israel Mitchell, of Linn County, and William H. Whitesides, of Dubuque County, who were instructed to meet at the house of Thomas Dickson, of Bowen's Prairie, for that purpose, on the second Monday in March, 1839. On the day appointed, Mr. Mitchell arrived, and, after waiting two days and the others failing to make their appearance, he returned without accomplishing his mission.

"On the 1st of January, 1839, an act was passed providing for the establishment of common schools. February, 1839, marks the era of the first settlement of Fisherville, some two miles above Anamosa, on the Buffalo, by George H. Walworth and Gideon H. Ford, for the purpose of building a saw-mill. Hon. Timothy Davis, of Dubuque, was also a partner in the concern. A hewed-log house twenty-four feet square, was erected for the accommodation of the firm. Shortly after, two younger brothers of Mr. Walworth, to wit, C. C. Walworth and J. D. Walworth, arrived and formed a part of the household. On the 16th of April, 1839, Harrison Bowen, a brother of Hugh Bowen, arrived with his family from Ohio, taking up his residence with his brother. Joseph Berryhill, a half-brother of Mr. Bowen, arrived at the same time. On the 23d of May, in the same year, the engineers appointed to survey the military road from Dubuque to Iowa City, passed through the prairie, locating the road substantially where it now runs; $20,000 were at first appropriated by the General Government for surveying, bridging, grubbing and opening the same. Subsequently, $13,000 additional were appropriated for the same purpose. Out of this appropriation, a Mr. Reed, of Fairview, was paid for building the first bridge across the Wapsipinicon at Anamosa. In the same year, 1839, James L. Langworthy, of Dubuque, also took contracts for bridging, grubbing, and opening the road, paying $3 per mile for running a furrow to indicate the locality of the road. July 3, 1839, witnessed the raising of Walworth's mill, at Fisherville. Runners were sent some eighteen miles for hands to raise. Thirty were obtained. This was probably the first heavy raising in Jones County without whisky. Strong coffee, richly prepared with sugar and cream, was used as a substitute. As the raising occupied two days, all hands encamped for the night on the ample floor. As a pastime, during the evening, an interesting discussion on banking was held, George H. Walworth being in favor and James L. Langworthy opposed, to the institution.

"On the 24th of July, 1839, the first political caucus in Jones County was held, at the house of Clement Russell, for the purpose of nominating Territorial county officers. George H. Walworth was nominated for the Assembly. On the 5th of August, was held the second general election in Jones County, forty-two votes being cast in Bowen's Prairie Precinct. The candidates for Representative were Israel Mitchell and George H. Walworth. The latter was elected. Hugh Bowen was elected Sheriff. I will relate an incident, said to have transpired in this precinct at this election, tending to illustrate the accommodating spirit of Justices in those days, as well as the sensitiveness of candidates for office when their fitness for duties was called in question. During the day of election, it was noticed that a certain candidate was for some length of time in close consultation with a certain Justice of the Peace. There appeared to be great earnestness on the part of the candidate, as well as a disposition to listen on the part of the Justice. Something was up, that was evident, an ax to grid, if nothing more. At length an inkling of the state of things was revealed by a favored few, who pretended to know how matters stood. The said candidate, whom we will call Daniel, had heard it whispered that he was incompetent for the office, in fact, that he couldn't spell his own name correctly. This, if true, would surely have been a damaging accusation. But the said candidate was determined that such a glaring slander should be refuted; that obstacle, at least, in the way of his election, should be removed. He would produce an affidavit, signed by his own hand; that the accusation was cruelly false; that he did know how to spell his name; that he had done it and could do it again; that he never spelled his name Daniel; that he was prepared to produce documents to show that he always spelt it Danill. Having, of course, satisfied the legal voters on this point, it is presumed they governed themselves accordingly, accepting his statement of the case that he did spell his name with a double instead of a single 'l.'

"As horse-racing is one of the established institutions on the day, it may not be inappropriate to trace back its history to the first grand horse-race on Bowen's Prairie, and probably in Jones County, tending to show, if nothing more, the respectability of its origin, its felicitous results, and its tendency to elevate and refine the moral sentiments of the community at large. This event happened on the 18th day of August, 1839. The competitors were Charles Johnston and Alfred Weatherford; the day, the holy Sabbath; the wager, a gallon of whisky; distance to be run, eighty rods; terminus, a stake-and-ridered fence. At the word 'go,' both parties started off at a commendable pace, but, as they neared the fence, the said Johnston, valuing his head at a higher figure than a gallon of whisky even, held up, and thus saved a skull he was not prepared to break. But his competitor, Weaterford, was not to be thus defeated; he could see in the stake-and-ridered fence ahead something which would make him happy for a week, so for the fence he went with all the madness of a Calmuck Tartar. His horse, however, once in his life, seemed disposed to exercise his own rights, to-wit, that of life and limb, and when within some twenty feet of the decisive leap which would have mingled horse, rider and fence in one indistinguishable ruin, suddenly stopped. The momentum, however, carried the rider most effectually not only to but into the desired goal, completely demolishing both rider and fence. The conflict was over, the race won, and the whisky most cheerfully forthcoming, the loser declaring his entire satisfaction at the result, and proposing to repeat the contest, saying he had one more gallon he would be happy to dispose of with similar results. Whether the race was repeated, deponent is not informed.

"On the 24th of August, 1839, a meeting of the citizens of Jones County was held at the center of the county, to obtain an expression of their wishes in regard to the county seat. On the 16th of September, 1839, Edmund Booth called here on his way to Fisherville. It is none of our business to inquire what his business was, or why, in a reasonable time afterward, he led to the alter the accomplished sister of Mr. Walworth. On the 13th and 14th of November, 1839, Joseph E. Green raised his hewed-log house, on the premises now owned by Francis M. Hicks, being attracted to that locality by its bountiful spring of water and beautiful scenery, and on the day following, a dwelling-house was raised by a Mr. Michaeljohn, a Scotchman, near the late residence of Andrew Gordon. On the 27th of the same month, Hugh L. Johns raised a blacksmith-shop some twelve rods east of the house of Barrett Whittemore.

"On the 21st of January, 1839, an act was passed appointing Chauncy Swan, John Ronalds and Robert Ralston to meet at Napoleon, on the 1st day of May, 1839, and locate the seat of government of the Territory of Iowa, resulting in its location at Iowa City, in the county of Johnson. On the 17th of January, 1840, the city of Dubuque was incorporated. On the 13th of March, in the same year, ground was broken on the public square of Iowa City for the foundation of the State House, Barrett Whittemore being plowman. On the 15th of June, 1840, the official census of Jones County was taken by Hugh Bowen, as follows: Males, 290; females, 185; total 475. About the 20th of June in this year, the citizens of Bowen's Prairie, including Monticello and Cascade, met at the house of Moses Collins for the purpose of taking measures to protect their claims at the coming land sales, from the iron grasp of land speculators, and to reconcile conflicting claimants, so as to avoid conterbidding at the sale. A resolution to that effect was drawn up and signed by twenty-five persons. William Collins and Barrett Whit
temore were appointed to act as bidders for all purchasers in this vicinity, and George H. Walworth for the same purpose in the south part of the county.
"On June 22, 1840, the land sales for this region commenced. George L. Nightingale was Auctioneer, and Thomas McKnight, Receiver. Two townships were sold daily, occupying about one hour. The remainder of the day was devoted to receiving money and issuing certificates. On Thursday following, June 25, Richland Township was offered. Only two sections were sold, amounting to $1,600. This amount not only drained the purchasers of their ready cash, but a considerable amount of it was borrowed at 25 to 30 per cent interest. The remaining claims were left unsold for the want of means to purchase with, thus subjecting the claimants to the risk of losing their claims. The risk, however, was not wholly on one side. Woe to the audacious speculator, who, in those days failed to recognize the equitable rights of the occupying claimants. During the hours of sale, the auction-room was surrounded by an organized band of determined men, ready to inflict summary vengeance on any who should dare to raise the bid of an actual settler, or who should bid on land claimed by one. It must be acknowledged that the stand taken by the settlers could not have been legally sustained, and might, in certain contingencies, have provoked a conflict between the settlers and the Government. But the settlers were willing to incur that risk, and circumstances rather tended to lead to the impression that the Government officers were inclined to avoid, if possible, such a conflict.

"At this date, Alfred Weatherford sold his claim to Francis Gehon, and moved to Missouri. Mr. Gehon sold to a Mr. Malony, who, in 1847, sold to Ebenezer Little. His son is the present owner and occupant. During this season, 1840, John Byers, then a lad of some ten summers, came to the Prairie, taking up his residence with Hugh Bowen, with whom he lived till about the time of his marriage to Mary Ellen Graham, a daughter of David Graham, formerly of Bowen's Prairie, and now a resident of Anamosa. Mr. Byers lived for some years in independent circumstances on his farm near Langworthy, and, with his estimable lady, still retains the cordial respect and good will of numerous friends of his earlier days. He now lives in Great Bend, Kan.

"On the 19th of October, 1840, the first schoolhouse on Bowen's Prairie, if not in the county, was raised, being a private institution of Barrett Whittemore's, and situated a few rods east of his present residence. For some nine years, this building was used alternately as a schoolhouse, a church and a court room. Previous to this, quite a number of settlers had located in Cascade and vicinity, including John Rafferty, Mahlon Lupton, Asa Leek, Lyman Dillon, Robert and George Snowden, Peter Summers, and others whose names are not recollected. Elon Rafferty, son of John Rafferty, still lives on or near his original homestead.

"On the 28th of January, 1841, John O'Sullivan raised his first dwelling-house on the premises now owned by his son.

"On March 22, 1841, the District Court was held in Edinburg, probably the first session held in the county. Thomas S. Wilson, of Dubuque, was Judge, Hugh Bowen, Sheriff, and William Hutton, Clerk. In the lack of outside accommodations, the court-room was used as a substitute. In the evening was held a political discussion, in which Lewis A. Thomas, a lawyer from Dubuque, and George H. Walworth were speakers; Charles P. Hutton also participated, after which was had an organization of the Whig party. This year, William Tibbetts arrived with his family, and settled on the premises where he resided until a few years ago, when he moved into Monticello. During his residence, he has been elected to various county and township offices, prominent among them that of Justice of the Peace.

"On the 3d of February, 1841, Charles Johnston moved to Missouri, but subsequently returned, and, about the year 1850, moved to California, where he still resides.

"In 1841, John McGinty and family moved to Bowen's Prairie, occupying a house belonging to Franklin Dalby, where he resided some two years, when he removed to his farm, two miles east of Cascade.

"June 21, 1841, a school was opened by Barrett Whittemore on Bowen's Prairie, being the first school taught in Jones County, north of the Wapsipinicon, and continuing in session, with two short vacations, until the 4th of March, 1842, constituting a term of thirty-five weeks, or 175 days; tuition, $3 per quarter; children under 7 years, $2.50; whole attendance, 29; average, 15. Books used were McGuffey's First, Second and Third Readers, Webster's Elementary Speller, Smith's, Pike's, Daboll's and Smiley's Arithmetics. There were eighteen writers, eleven in written arithmetic, two in geography and one in grammar.

"On the 27th of June, 1841, Rev. Ira Blanchard, a Baptist minister, residing in Castle Grove Township, held a religious meeting in the schoolhouse and made appointments to preach every fourth Sabbath after. At his second meeting, on the 24th of July following, some seventy-five persons were present, considered then the largest collection of persons ever assembled in Jones County; some of the hearers residing fifteen miles distant.

"About the 1st of January, 1842, a post office was established at Cascade; L. A. Styles, Postmaster. On the 19th of February following, was held the first temperance meeting in this vicinity, at a house owned by Arthur Thomas, of Cascade. Some twenty persons were present, twelve of whom signed the pledge. Two weeks afterward, a second meeting was held and a Temperance Society formed; William Collins was elected President, Asa Leek, Vice President, and William Hutton, Secretary. Temperance meetings were frequently held afterward in this vicinity, awakening considerable interest in the cause, but instigating the enmity of the rumsellers.

"During the year 1842, the Delong family sold their lands in Cascade and vicinity to the following purchasers: Caleb Bucknam, since deceased; G. G. Banghart and John Taylor, the present occupants. Most of Mr. Bucknam's original purchase is now merged in the village of Cascade. Mr. Banghart has been a prominent merchant in Cascade for nearly the whole period of his residence there, some thirty-seven years, occasionally assuming the duties which the county or township imposed on him. He was elected County Commissioner of Jones County soon after its organization, performing his duties with credit and ability. John Taylor was a native of Rockingham County, N. H., whence he emigrated to New York at the age of sixteen, thence to Wisconsin, subsequently to Dubuque, and thence to Jones County, as above stated. Soon after his arrival, he was elected Probate Judge of Jones County, which office he held for three years. In 1844, he was elected as Delegate to the Convention for framing a State Constitution, and has been repeatedly elected as State Representative, serving in that capacity six or eight sessions in all. It is not necessary to speak of him as a neighbor and citizen, what the writer could say would be deemed a cold compliment by those numerous recipients of his bounty, by the desolate bosoms which have been cheered by his sympathy, and by alienated hearts which have been reconciled by his timely and wise counsels.

"June 17 and 18, 1843, witnessed the arrival on the prairie of Otis Whittemore and wife, with a brother-in-law, John H. Eaton. He soon after laid claim to his old premises on Bowen's Prairie, which he commenced improving and on which he resided some twenty-four years, when, nine years ago, he moved to Monticello, where he now resides. He took a prominent part in building the Congregational Churches both in Cascade and Bowen's Prairie. About the year 1854, he opened a store on Bowen's Prairie, and, for several years, supplied most of the inhabitants with dry goods and groceries. In 1860, he was elected a Representative to the State Legislature. He has always been a stanch advocate of temperance, freedom and the moral reforms of the day.

"In 1854, Phillip Cline arrived on the Prairie, and purchased the premises known as the Cline farm, where he continued to reside for some thirty years, when he moved to Nebraska. He was a native of Virginia; moved thence to Ohio; thence to Illinois, and finally to Bowen's Prairie. He has seen a large family of children grow up under his care; several have died; one still resides here. The others are eligibly situated with homes of their own. The oldest son, William, influenced by the glaring reports from California, about the year 1850, joined the crowd of adventurers, and, after an absence of three years, returned, not as too many are foolish enough to do, with an elephant on his foot and a flea in his ear, but did the more sensible thing of returning with a pocket full of rocks. Surely this double present of a husband and a fortune must have been somewhat bewildering to any young lady, and we must not be much surprised if his fairy-bird was not an exception. Be that as it may, he is now living in very comfortable style in an elegant mansion, with his wife and children, with an abundance of rich acres surrounding him, and I presume, hardly dreams that some twenty-six years have glided away since the enactment of the drama just described.

"William Brazleton moved to the Prairie in the year 1845, and first settled on the premises now owned by A. R. Doxsee, and upon which he resided until the year 1849, cultivating and improving his farm, and burning brick. He erected the first brick house built in this vicinity, being the one now owned and occupied by the widow of Robert Bunting. He subsequently moved to Independence, Buchanan County, where he opened a hotel and ran it with profit to himself and satisfaction to the traveling public. Believing the locality an unhealthy one, he sold out and returned to the Prairie, and purchased the farm on which his son now resides. By availing himself of all the modern improvements in husbandry, and in building and household conveniences, he rendered his premises an inviting resort for all lovers of scientific husbandry. He now resides near Monticello, and, having been successful in accumulating a competency sufficient to release him from the necessity of physical toil, it is to be hoped that he will still continue to be, as he has been, the defender of an honest appropriation of the revenues."

It will be noticed that some of the above points are elsewhere referred to, but only so much as to fully corroborate what is written.—(ED.)

Bowen's Prairie First Congregational Church.—This church was organized March 23, 1853; Rev. E. Wright, of Anamosa, preached on the occasion. The following persons were admitted to membership at the time of organization: John White and wife, Lucian Rice and wife, Edmund Blodgett and wife, Otis Whittemore and wife, Barrett Whittemore and wife, and Fanny S. Flint.

April 2, 1853, the Church met and agreed to accept the Rules and Articles of Faith of the Dubuque Congregational Church. In May following, four members were added to the Church by letter. There have labored with this Church in the Gospel ministry: Revs. T. H. Canfield, S. C. Cady, J. Searles, I Russell, W. Apthorp, C. S. Thompson, N. Closson and the present Pastor, Rev. Harvey Adams, one of the "Iowa Band." The communion service was the gift of Mrs. James Bowen.

The First Congregational society was formed September, 1853, to co-operate with the Church in building a house of worship. The foundation was laid the first of October, and the church completed and dedicated the following June. The cost of the edifice was $1,300, three hundred of which was donated from the Church Building Fund. This church has a fine bell, the cost of which was partly donated by Asa Bowen, Otis Whittemore and others; $100 was raised by means of a bell-festival. Otis Whittemore donated the ground upon which the church was built, and also donated the grounds for the parsonage and half an acre of land for cemetery purposes, near the church. The cemetery has since been enlarged.

This Church had for many years one of the finest choirs in this part of the State. There were at one time sixty members in the choir. At the outbreak of the war, a number of the young men became volunteers, and the following were among the number: Alfred Hines, killed at the battle of Pea Ridge; Edgar Heims, died in camp at Helena, Ark., and Frederick Blodgett, died at Memphis, in hospital. He was an only son of Edmund S. Blodgett. On receipt of the news of the death of the above, the orchestra of the church was draped in mourning for many days. Much of the work of erecting the church edifice was done by Mr. Otis Whittemore, who was the leader of the choir for many years. Mr. Whittemore also donated the grounds on which the M.E. Church at Bowen's Prairie was built.

SCOTCH GROVE TOWNSHIP

The first settlement in this township was made in 1836 or 1837, and, consequently, Scotch Grove is one of the very earliest settled districts in the county. The first settlers were Scotch emigrants from the Selkirk settlements, in British America, on the Red River of the North. They are said to have traveled the whole distance in ox-carts of the most antiquated style of construction. The hardships and privations incident to their journey-nearly a thousand miles-were numerous, and such as must have tried the very souls of these hardy pioneers to an extent that entitles them to the everlasting respect of all who now enjoy the advantages of this rich and populous district of the county of Jones. The indomitable will and courageous spirit of these early settlers have stamped their impress upon the character of the district in which they located, that will continue to be felt for a long time to come. The honor that is justly their due has never been paid to them, and the passing notice we give to them is by no means commensurate with their just deserts.

The first settlers were John and Alexander Sutherland, Joseph Bremner, Alexander McLlain and David McCoy. After these came Ebenezer Sutherland, Donald Sutherland and Donald Sinclair, who came in about 1838. Donald Livingston came in 1840, and settled near what is now the poor farm on the west side of Scotch Grove. About 1843, M. H. Hutton, and, somewhat later, L. J. Dreibelbis and Mathew Dawson settled in the township. In 1841, John E. Lovejoy, who had settled in Clay Township in 1839, came into Scotch Grove, and is still a resident, though he has at times been a resident of other portions of the country for a time, and was, for three years and a half, Consul to Peru, under the appointment of President Lincoln.

At the time of the first settlement, there were no houses between the military road and Canton. The nearest market was Dubuque, and the nearest mill at Catfish Creek, and was a very poor excuse for a mill at that. The places now called cities were almost without inhabitant. Maquoketa had a few settlers about it, and Dubuque was a mere hamlet. A few accessions were made occasionally until 1850, when some pioneers arrived from Indiana and Pennsylvania, and the spies having sent back a favorable report, others followed thick and fast, and now the township is thickly settled. Taken as a whole, it may be said that this township is unsurpassed for beauty of location by any in the county, and but few, if any, in the State. The South Fork of the Maquoketa waters the township on the north, along which there is good timber. Mineral Creek waters it in the southeast, and another small stream runs through about the center. The soil is a black, sandy loam, yielding abundantly to the cultivator, though it requires care and attention to develop its full resources. The inhabitants are, as a rule, a moral, temperate and industrious people. During the late civil war, Scotch Grove was among the first in the county to send volunteers to the front, to fight for the preservation of the Union, and she continued equally patriotic throughout the long struggle.

The small village of Scotch Grove is on the Davenport Branch of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway, in the west part of the township. H. D. Hanna has a general store, and is also the proprietor of a flourishing creamery.

CHURCHES AND RED RIVER EMIGRANTS

The Scotch Grove Presbyterian Church is situated on Section 22 of the township and near the center of the county. The original county seat was located in the southwest corner of this township and named Edinburg, near which the society laid out its burying ground and intended to build its church. When the township was named Scotch Grove, in 1831, the name of the Church was changed to correspond. Its present location, nearly east of Scotch Grove Station, is four miles northeast of the historic Edinburg. This Church was organized in 1841, by Rev. M. Hummer, of Iowa City, then the capital of the State. Its first members were Highland Scotch families from the Red River settlement of Lord Selkirk, in British America, a rival of the Hudson Bay Company. They had gone to this place in 1810, and had suffered considerable hardships from the jealousy of the Hudson Bay Company, from the severity of the climate and the depredations of the grasshopper, and had been disappointed of the services of a Presbyterian minister, which Lord Selkirk had promised them. One of their number, Alexander McLain, had gone to Dubuque about 1835, and invited them to follow him, and he came with them to the Maquoketa timber, where many of them took up claims. James Livingstone, Alexander Rose and Angus Mathieson went to the Upper Grove, near Hopkinton, while James Mathieson, the McIntyres and the Campbells went on to the other side of the Mississippi, opposite Bellevue. The first company came to Jones County in 1837, while Indians were still roving in the neighborhood, which were not removed by the Government to Kansas until 1846. The families who came in the first company were John Sutherland and his large family of boys, Alexander Sutherland and family, Joseph Bremner, David McCoy and Alexander McLain. Next year, four families arrived, Donald and Ebenezer Sutherland, Donald Sinclair and John McLaine. In 1840, Donald Livingston, David Esson and John Livingston came, making in all about seventy-five persons. They traveled in ox carts, such as are still used by the Pembina half-breeds in the Red River country. They are made without any iron, and are generally drawn by one ox, whose harness is made of untanned buffalo-hide.

The first death in the settlement occurred in 1839, and was that of Mrs. Isabel Sutherland, the mother of Donald, Alexander and Eben Sutherland and Mrs. McIntyre. For two years after the Church was formed, there was no preaching except the occasional visits of Methodist ministers. John Sutherland and Donald Livingston were the first Elders. In 1843, Rev. Samuel Cowles, of West Point, Lee Co., 130 miles distant, visited them on his way to the Presbytery at Dubuque, and promised to preach for them as often as he could on his large circuit through Linn Grove and Marion. Those were the days of large circuits, and of ministers with saddle-bags instead of satchels. Mr. Cowles was an earnest, able and pious minister, whose visits were welcomed by old and young. He preached to these scattered Churches about five times a year for seven years. He died in 1868. In 1850, Rev. F. A. Pratt preached for one year, and his wife taught select school in the house of E. Sutherland. He is still living, without a charge, in Mankato, Minn. In 1851, Rev. James Gallatin, one of the famous Gallatins of Pennsylvania, originally from Geneva, Switzerland, came just as the brethren had finished a new frame church (which stood in the middle of the graveyard in old-country fashion, and preached the first sermon in the new church and continued to labor faithfully on that charge and at Maquoketa for five years, when he was suddenly removed by death, and was buried on the east side of the church, where a modest gravestone tells of his cherished memory. He chose to serve his country friends, although frequently called as a minister by the Churches of Dubuque and Muscatine. He was succeeded, in 1856, by Rev. James L. Wilson, who continued their Pastor for sixteen years. During his ministrations, in 1861, the second church was built, which they now occupy. This church cost over $2,000, and was built without aid from abroad. It is furnished with a fine bell, and has the modern addition of an excellent organ. The Rev. John Rice, a graduate of Glasgow College, and the Reformed Presbyterian Seminary, in Paisley, Scotland, has supplied this charge for the last six years.

This Church has been the mother of several of the same denomination in the county, namely, Wayne, Bethel, Onslow, Anamosa and Center Junction, and a former Pastor held stated service at Canton, Ozark and Cascade. The present membership is 74, but 288 persons have been members of this Church. Besides those previously mentioned, the following have been Elders: David M. Cook, James Clark, Mathew Dawson, Robert B. McCullough, John Bentley, Dr. Hugh McKean, S. Hazen Clark, Lyman B. Hoyt, Thomas Lyons, William Clark, David Sutherland and Dr. Alexander McKean. The following have been Deacons: Donald Sutherland, John Gibson, Phillip Kuhns, John and William A. Sutherland, Donald Sutherland, Jr., William H. Bolton, William and Robert Sutherland and Angus Sinclair.

In 1852, and soon after, a large number of people from Western Pennsylvania, principally Presbyterians, settled in the neighborhood and united with the Church. Prominent among these were Rev. James McKean and his family of boys. He had preached for twenty years, in Waynesburg, Ohio. The old Church is still vigorous, and vies with its youthful companions in earnest, faithful effort to promote the cause of morality and religion.

In 1858, a Methodist Episcopal Church was built at the little village of Jonsontown, in the southeastern part of the township, but village and Church afterward suffered because of the superior attractions of railroad centers. About ten years later, another Methodist Episcopal Church was built on Section 16, one and a half miles east of the railroad station. Regular service is held in the latter church.

In 1872, the Christian denomination erected a house of worship at Scotch Grove Station, and is in a prosperous condition.

This township combined with Wayne, have greater church facilities than any other three townships in the county. It can be said of them, with emphasis, that they are a church-going, law-abiding, patriotic and prosperous people.

CLAY TOWNSHIP

Clay is one of the oldest-settled townships in the county. The first permanent settlers were David Killam, John E. Holmes, Benjamin Collins, Truman Brown and Madison Brown, who were here before 1838. John E. Lovejoy, now of Scotch Grove, came in 1839; P. D. Turner and Horace Turner came the same year, and, in the following spring, Lyman Turner, the father of P. D. and Horace. From 1840 to 1850, a few settlers came in, but in the latter year, the tide of emigrants which came pouring West, reached that place, and Clay Township was rapidly settled from that time on. A small portion of the village of Canton is in this township, and Canton may be called the commercial center. In early years, considerable lumber was manufactured at Canton. The South Fork of the Maquoketa enters the township at the northwest corner, and crossing to the east, leaves the township at the village of Canton. Along the river there is a good body of timber. The land along the river is a good deal broken and some of it rather sandy, but where it can be tilled gives good crops. Mineral Creek runs through the township near the south side, entering it near the north line of Section 31, and leaving it about a mile and a half north of the southeast corner of the township. The land in the prairie districts is abundantly productive, and the township is well watered and timbered.

Taken as a whole, Clay compares favorably with other townships of the county.

BETHEL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

This Church was organized June 14, 1870, at the schoolhouse in the southwest quarter of Clay Township, by a committee of the Dubuque Presbytery. The committee consisted of Revs. S. Hodge, D. D., J. L. Wilson and Elder Judge McKean. Previous to the year 1861, Rev. George E. Delavan, of Wyoming, had preached in this neighborhood, and on his death, which took place that year, Rev. James L. Wilson, of Scotch Grove, was invited and continued to preach at the Paul Schoolhouse in Wyoming Township, every two weeks, from June 16, 1861, till the close of 1872. In 1865, these services were held in the Paul Schoolhouse, Clay Township, and the Lord's Supper was administered frequently here, the Elders of Scotch Grove assisting, with which Church the most of the brethren in this neighborhood had united.

April 27, 1870, a petition was sent by these friends to the Presbytery and a committee appointed as above stated, who, in company with Revs. H. N. Potter, of Epworth, Moderator, and Justus L. Janes, of Wyoming, met as stated, on the 16th of June, 1870, and organized Bethel Presbyterian Church, of Clay Township.

Andrew Scroggie and Stephen R. Streeper were chosen Elders, and ordained and installed by the committee.

Arrangements were also made to build a church edifice, but as soon after a Church was formed in Onslow, agreement was made with the Free-Will Baptist Church in Clay, to have services in their church, which has been continued till the present time. A charter and by-laws were adopted and legally executed December 17, 1870.

On January 13, 1873, Rev. J. L. Wilson resigned the pastoral charge of this Church, and, on May 25, Rev. John Rice preached and was invited to return and has since continued to preach to this Church in connection with Scotch Grove.

On June 16, 1877, a congregational meeting was held, Rev. John Rice presiding, at which time it was resolved to adopt the limited term of office for the Elders and Deacons, whereby each is to serve three years; and the following were chosen as Elders: Andrew Scroggie, Stephen R. Streeper, Andrew Duncanson and Thomas Hamilton; and as Deacons, A. P. Ornsby, John Dennison and David H. Orr, and on November 4, they were duly installed.

This Church, at its yearly meeting, January 8, 1879, gave strong expression to the principles of the Presbyterian Church, on subjects of temperance and dancing.

Officers, 1879: John Orr, Chairman; John Dennison, Secretary; A. P. Ornsby, Treasurer.

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP

There are but few counties in which there is no Washington Township, and Jones County is no exception to the rule. This is the northeast township of the county, and is one of the first settled portions in it. The north fork of the Maquoketa River enters the northeast corner, crosses to the southeast and leaves the township about a half-mile north of the southeast corner. The Whitewater branch of the Maquoketa enters the township from the north, a mile west of the northeast corner, and unites with the latter in the north part of Section 10. Farm Creek crosses the southwest portion, and, entering Clay Township on the south, empties into the south fork of the Maquoketa a little north of the center of that township.

The surface of Washington is quite broken and hilly, and a large portion is timber-land. The soil, when cultivated, is productive, and the settlers are mostly Irish. Among the pioneers in this township were C. P. Hutton, who was one of the first Board of County Commissioners, as is stated elsewhere; James Hutton, the son of C. P. Hutton, who now resides in Scotch Grove Township; Abraham Hostetter and a Mr. Mefford. These settlers there about 1836 or 1837. William Radford, Mahlon Lupton, William Rafferty and George Banghart, came and settled in Washington, not far from the same time. A portion of the city of Cascade is in the northwest corner of this township and in the northeast corner of Richland, but the greater portion is in the county of Dubuque, and Cascade is properly a Dubuque County city.

The early history of this township is more or less identical with that of Richland, and is given in a chapter by Barrett Whittemore.

JACKSON TOWNSHIP

This township is east of Fairview and west of Madison. The surface is, largely, rolling prairie land; in parts it is somewhat broken. The Wapsipinicon River enters from the west, near the center, and running southeast, leaves the township a mile west of the southeast corner. Along the river, there is good timber-land, and there is considerable timber in the northeast corner. The village of Newport is in the south part, on the Wapsipinicon, and consists, at the present time, of only a small collection of dwellings and a grist-mill. There is an excellent water-power at this point, and this village was once the county seat. One of the finest bridges spans the Wapsipinicon at this place that there is in the county. It is an iron structure, and rests upon good, solid, stone abutments.

The Christian Church society have a small brick church edifice in the northwestern part of the township, and there is a fine schoolhouse in the same neighborhood. The first settlers in the township were James Sherman and Adam Overacker. They were here as early as 1838 or 1839. Sherman settled in the eastern part, and in early times was a Justice of the Peace. Overacker settled in the neighborhood of Newport. Levi Cronkhite, David Myers, Anthony Overacker settled also in the neighborhood of Newport. David German settled in the eastern part, near Sherman. Rueben Bunce, now of Anamosa, was also an old settler in Jackson. In the year 1846, Francis Byerly, Michael Byerly, Jacob Byerly, Andrew Byerly, John Byerly, William Byerly and Adam Byerly came and settled in the neighborhood of Newport. William Benadon and Simon P. Benadon came with the Byerlys, Charles Beam came also about the same time. Daniel Slife came in 1849. From this time on, the settlers came in rapidly and Jackson is now well settled and well improved.

CASS TOWNSHIP

This township is north of Fairview, and, though not the earliest settled, comprises a portion of the very best farming land in the county. The south portion is considerably broken, and is principally timber-land, and a small district in north is likewise hilly and uneven. The central portion is a beautiful prairie district, almost entirely level or slightly undulating. The farms are in a good state of cultivation, and the farmhouses and barns good and substantial. The Buffalo Creek runs across the southwest corner, and the Dubuque & Southwestern Branch of the Chicago & Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway crosses the southwest. In the center of the township the Congregational Church society has a good house of worship, and there is a Methodist Church two miles north of the center. In the southwestern portion there is one of the most flourishing creameries in the county, owned and operated by Messrs. Stuart & Chadwick. Among the early settlers of this township were Elisha Dodge, now of Monticello, Solomon Thomas, Mr. Pitcher, George Hall, Alex. Crawford, A. P. Condit, John Powell, M. Reaves, Linus Osborne, David Osborne, John Reaves, Silas Samms, Jonas Samms, Robert Dondit, Oliver Doyle, Mr. Acres, John Wallace and others.

There were but few settlers in the township until the year 1854, and the population increased rapidly after that time.

WAYNE TOWNSHIP

This fine agricultural township lies immediately south of Monticello and northeast of Anamosa. It is surpassed by none in the fertility of its soil and the character of its inhabitants. While in many portions of the township the land is comparatively level, yet, as a whole, it is abruptly rolling and uneven, interspersed with rich lowlands and lined by several small ravines. Primeval forests are not found, but areas of thrifty young timber are not rare. Nearly all the land is tillable, and is watered by Kitty Creek with its two main branches and their small tributaries. The southern sections constitute a "ridge" or water-shed from which small streams flow northward, and others to the southeast. The township is traversed by no river. The soil is generally a sandy loam, which produces excellent small grain, fair corn, good grass, and nearly all the varieties of fruit which are adapted to this latitude. Areas of alluvial soil yield premium corn. Their luxuriant meadows and cultivated grasses supply winter food for the cattle gathered in from their "thousand hills." The township is well adapted to general farming and the dairy business, which latter interest is rapidly becoming prominent.

EARLY SETTLEMENT

The first permanent settler was James Spencer, who located in the north part of the township in the spring of 1840. It was the general intention to name the township in his honor, but at the organization in 1856, "Wayne" was chosen in memory of a county in Ohio.

J. McLaughlin is said to have built a cabin and dug a well on land now owned by Hon G. W. Lowell, as early as 1838, and possibly a few others may have founded claims before J. Spencer, but they remained only a short time, and he was the earliest settler still residing in the township at date of its organization. His widow lives in Monticello with her son-in-law, Joseph Clark. The growth of the township was not rapid until after 1850. During the decade prior to 1860, the population increased a hundred-fold. Notwithstanding its natural advantages, it was among the last to be settled, and was the latest organized in the county.

ORGANIZATION

This township, previously nameless, was organized on the 7th of April, 1856, at the house of O. G. Scrivens, by the electors of said township, who were convened by call of Joseph Gant, who had been appointed for that purpose on the 15th of March preceding, by G. C. Mudgett, the County Judge.

The Judges of election were Jacob Zigler, T. Hartman and Henry Simmons. The Clerks of said election were B. F. Gant and John Clark. The first township officers elected were: Justices of the Peace, David M. Cook and Alpheus Johnson; Constables, William Nelson and R. Batchelder; Assessor, John Clark; Town Clerk, Joseph Gaut; Trustees, O. M. Gaut, J. Goodin, T. Hartman; Road Supervisor, O. G. Scrivens.

Twenty-three votes were cast at said election. The following list includes a majority of all the early settlers, and their nativity, who located in Wayne Township at any time prior to its organization in 1856; E. Ackerman, New York; I. Ackerman, New York; W. Armatige, Pennsylvania; Robert Barnhill, Indiana; George Brown, Indiana; John Batchelder, New Hampshire; Steven Batchelder, New Hampshire; N. Batchelder, New Hampshire; Romance Batchelder, New Hampshire; B. Batchelder, New Hampshire; A. Batchelder, New Hampshire; N. Bigley, Pennsylvania; Warren Burrough, N. Y.; Martin Barts, Pennsylvania; John Clark, Pennsylvania; J. C. Clark, Pennsylvania; David Cook, Pennsylvania; Roswell Crane, New York; Joseph Dawson, Pennsylvania; Z. Dunning, New York; M. Davis, _______; C. S. Gilkey, Michigan; O. M. Gaut, Pennsylvania; Joseph Gaut, Pennsylvania; Benjamin Gaut, Pennsylvania; A. Himebaugh, Illinois; L. Hitchcock, Pennsylvania; Stephen Hester, Indiana; George Hall, New Hampshire; T. Hartman, Pennsylvania; William Jorden, _______; Alpheus Johnson, New York; George W. Lovell, Michigan; Daniel Loper, Pennsylvania; J. McDonald, Canada; G. C. Mudgett, Indiana; James Milne, New York; John McBride, Pennsylvania; W. H. Perine, Ohio; David Reed, Pennsylvania; Robert Reed, Pennsylvania; James Spencer, Pennsylvania; Thomas Schoonover, Indiana; G. Schoonover, Indiana; L. Schoonover, Illinois; H. Simmons, Illinois; O. G. Scrivers, Indiana; James Stacy, New York; E. Stroman, Pennsylvania; William Sanford, Ohio; A. Sanford, Ohio; W. P. Sanford, Ohio; C. Taylor, New Hampshire; D. Tucker, New Hampshire; M. Tippen, Ohio; S. Wooster, New Hampshire; E. Wooster, New Hampshire; Jacob Zigler, Pennsylvania.

In the newly organized township, the first school was taught by Miss Nellie McConnon, in the house of Roswell Crane at Langworthy, but Miss Martha Crane, and doubtless others, had taught school in the unnamed and unorganized township. Miss McConnon afterward married W. H. Proctor, a merchant in Monticello, and has since died.

COUNTY FARM

The State of Iowa, through C. P. Hutton and T. S. Dawson, Commissioners of Jones County, donated to Jones County the northeast quarter of Section 36, in Wayne Township, on the 20th of June 1840. This, with subsequent additions and modifications, constitutes the "County Poor Farm." It now contains about 200 acres, and the county has occupied and improved it since about 1860. The first Steward was O. B. Doyle. It has been for ten years in charge of John Platner and wife, who are regarded as thoroughly competent. General farming is practiced. The beneficiaries of the institutions average fully twenty in constant attendance, and comprise nearly all nationalities and all colors, and all ages, from the nursling to the veteran of nearly ninety winters. The county is burdened with several who are incurably insane. While the policy of the county is to decline furnishing a comfortable retreat for all the lazy, able-bodied, willingly dependent applicants for its charities, nevertheless, the treatment of all its unfortunate is considerate and humane.

VILLAGES

Langworthy, now a station on the Southwestern Branch of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad, was laid out by Col. W. T. Shaw, January 2, 1858. It is situated in the northwestern part of the township, and contains about one hundred and twenty-five souls. It has one general store, one creamery, one idle cheese-factory, one blacksmith-shop, one shoemaker's shop, a post office, a depot, a church, express office, and no saloon. A. H. Hall is the merchant, and is doing an average annual business of $12,000. He is also the acceptable servant of the people and the United States Government as Postmaster. The obliging station agent, J. A. Rollins, informs us that the total amount of freight and passenger business is annually about $1,700, which includes the transportation of seventy-five tons of butter and twenty-five carloads of live-stock. The "Crescent Creamery," described elsewhere, is the chief enterprise of the place.

Amber—This enterprising little village is in the southern central part of Wayne, and has grown up since the autumn of 1874, when the Midland depot was there located. It now has one general store, kept by Mrs. C. E. Sanford & Son, one wagon-shop, by J. P. Hollenback, one blacksmith-shop, by W. H. Green, one carpenter-shop, one paint-shop, two warehouses, a depot, express office and post office; there is also a lumber-yard and an office for the sale of agricultural implements. J. C. Ramsey, the station agent, buys annually 30,000 bushels of grain, and Hartman & Sanford have shipped 15,000 bushels this year. Forty-five car loads of live stock are shipped annually; 950,000 feet of lumber are sold, and $700 received for the sale of tickets. The founders of Amber were the Hartmans, the Sanfords and J. C. Ramsey, and they are still prominent in business. T. Hartman, a pioneer, is the original Postmaster. The post office was established in 1873, with the name of Blue Cut, which was, on the 1st of July, 1878, changed to Amber.

CREAMERIES

On the eastern central part of Wayne is the noted Diamond Creamery of H. D. Sherman & Co., proprietors. Howard Putnam, Superintendent. It was opened in the spring of 1878, and the average amount of milk used per month the first season was 10,000 pounds. Average per month in 1879, 14,000 pounds.

This creamery uses the Orange County deep-setting pans, the square revolving churn and the Walker Patent Butter-Worker. The milk is entirely supplied from Wayne Township, and twenty-seven pounds are used in the manufacturer of a pound of butter. This creamery received the first premium for Iowa butter and the sweepstakes at the International Exhibition in New York in 1878.

The Crescent Creamery, C. E. Marvin, Proprietor and Superintendent, is located at Langworthy station, and is ample in all its appointments. This was erected early in 1879, and is receiving a monthly average of 265,000 pounds of milk from the dairies in Wayne Township, and the monthly product of butter is nearly 12,000 pounds, and pays to farmers about $25,000 per year. Some small dairies average forty pounds per day for each cow for nine months. An artesian well supplies the creamery with constant and pure water. Philadelphia and New York monopolize the "Crescent" and "Diamond" products.

Near Langworthy, also, is the neat little creamery owned by Minor Davis, which receives an average of 2,000 pounds per day during the season.

All of these creameries are recently established, and the farmers of Wayne are thus given a home market for $50,000 worth of the most profitable farm product.

CHURCHES

The oldest church in Wayne is that of the United Presbyterian, on the eastern border, near Scotch Grove, which is the nearest post office. It was organized on the 12th of May, 1856, with twelve members. One hundred and eighty-six persons have been members of this Church. The first Pastor was the Rev. A. J. Allen, and the present Pastor, the Rev. W. D. Ralston, has been in charge since 1864. The present Elders are Matthew Nelson, Robert Heasty, J. L. Acheson, James Milne and George L. Himebaugh. The church and parsonage are valued at $3,000. The present church edifice was erected in 1865, and, from the shape of its spire is locally known as "The four-horned church." Many of its members reside in Scotch Grove.

The Langworthy Circuit of the Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in October, 1859, by the Rev. Bishop Isabel, and has enjoyed a continuous itinerant pastorate. The preacher in charge is the Rev. R. Ricker. The present edifice, named the "Springer Memorial," was built in 1872. The first Trustees were P. G. Bonewitz, Minor Davis, Michael Tippin, H. Albertson, J. F. Wilkins, Z. Dunning and F. J. Fish.

The Burr Oak M. E. Church, a charge on the Langworthy Circuit, also erected a new church in the autumn of 1872, the Rev J. M. Hedge being Pastor. The first Trustees were Daniel Loper, Ephraim Stroman, George Soper, Jacob Fryberger and Jacob Rhue.

There are three German Churches, the oldest of which is the German Evangelican Lutheran St. John's congregation, (of Unaltered Augsburg Confession). This society was organized in 1861, the first minister being R. Oswald. Their new church was built in 1877.

The Evangelical Lutheran Zion's congregation built a church in 1874, and their first Minister was J. J. Oetjen.

The United German Lutheran Reformed Church was organized in 1876, and their first minister was George Rettig. This society holds no service at the present date.

Town Officers—The following is a list of town officers elected October 14, 1879: Town Clerk, P. M. Himebaugh; Trustee, Noah Bigley: Assessor, J. C. Lawrence; Collector, A. H. Hall; Constable, Orange Lawrence.

Road Supervisors—District No. 1, T. Tobiasen; No. 2, J. C. Lawrence; No. 3, H. Adams; No. 4, W. B. Allen; No. 5, G. L. Himebaugh; No. 6, George Schoonover; No. 7, Henry Hoyen; No. 8, T. Borderker; No. 9, J. D. Priest; No. 10, Horace Soper; No. 11, Peter Hartman; No. 12, Henry Hartman; No. 13, H. J. Jacobs; No. 14, H. Harms; No. 15, Noah Bigley; No. 16, E. Stroman.

The township is traversed by three railroads, two of which are controlled by the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul, and the other is the Midland Branch of the Chicago & North-Western. Most of the residents of Wayne own the farms they cultivate. The majority are Americans, but a large percentage in the north and east are German and others, foreign-born. The population, in 1875, was 1,135. Two hundred and three votes were cast at the election in October, 1879, but the number of male adults exceeds that number, since many foreigners do not care to assume the duties of citizenship, although this class, together with all others, unite to form one industrious, thrifty and moral community.

History, Biographies, Stories, News

Û History of Jones County, Iowa

Western Historical Company, 1879.

THE METHODISTS

PRESBYTERIANS

UNITED PRESBYTERIAN

BAPTIST CHURCH

WYOMING IN 1879

OFFICIAL ROSTER

MADISON TOWNSHIP

THE VILLAGE OF ONSLOW

CENTER JUNCTION

OXFORD TOWNSHIP

OXFORD JUNCTION

OXFORD MILLS

HALE TOWNSHIP

GREENFIELD TOWNSHIP

ROME TOWNSHIP

REMINISCENCES OF ROME—1840–1841

OLIN IN 1879

SOCIETIES

CASTLE GROVE TOWNSHIP

CHURCHES

RICHLAND TOWNSHIP

HISTORICAL SKETCH OF BOWEN'S PRAIRIE

SCOTCH GROVE TOWNSHIP

CHURCHES AND RED RIVER EMIGRANTS

CLAY TOWNSHIP

BETHEL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP

JACKSON TOWNSHIP

CASS TOWNSHIP

WAYNE TOWNSHIP

EARLY SETTLEMENT

ORGANIZATION

COUNTY FARM

VILLAGES

CREAMERIES

CHURCHES