Polk Co. IAGenWeb

CLAPP, ED. R. — Among the daring and enterprising pioneers who were borne westward on the advanced wave of civilization were two brothers by the name of Clapp. W. W. Clapp was one of the most energetic business men in the early history of the county. He afterward removed to California, where he died. The subject of this sketch, E. R. Clapp, though yet a comparatively young man is still actively engaged in the business affairs of the city he assisted in founding. He was born in Madison county, New York, May 30, 1827. He afterward, while yet a youth, removed to Ohio, and when ten years of age located in Keokuk county, of this State, and, in 1846, again removed to Polk county, Iowa. Thus far Mr. Clapp was chiefly engaged in the occupation of farming and stock raising and as such was successful in accumulating considerable property. Possessed of more than an average amount of business foresight and sagacity, he readily perceived, at an early time, that Des Moines was destined to become the leading business center of the State. He laid his plans accordingly and at the present time he is the owner of one of the best business locations and one of the most prominent business buildings in the capital city. In 1867 Mr. Clapp was appointed stock agent of the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad, which position he still occupies, he having discharged the difficult duties of that office for a period of thirteen years. He is one of the most trusted employees of the railroad and is a universal favorite among the stock men and shippers of the State. He was married in 1849 to Miss Emily J. Baughton, a native of New York; she died in 1869. By this marriage there are three children living: Ella (now Mrs. White), Ida (now Mrs. Smith), and John W. His second marriage occurred in 1871 to Mrs. S. A. Mills, a native of Rush county, Indiana. By this union they have one daughter: Bertha. Mrs. C. has two children by former marriage: Pleasant Jacob and Minnie (now Mrs. Harry Elliott).