There is no subject connected with the history of the county, of more general interest than a faithful record of its bar. In reviewing the history of the bar, it must be borne in mind, that as the prosperity and well - being of every community depends upon the wise interpretation, as well as the judicious framing of its laws, therefore it must follow that a record of the members of the bar must form no unimportant part in the county’s history. Upon a few principles of natural justice is erected the whole superstructure of civil law, tending to relieve the wants and meet the desires of all alike. The business of the lawyer is not to make the laws, but to apply them to the daily affairs of men. But the interests of men are diversified, and where so many interest and counter interests are to be protected and adjusted, to the lawyer and the judge are presented many interesting and complex problems.

Change is everywhere imminent. The laws of yesterday do not meet the wants and necessities of the people to-day, for the old relations do not exist. New and satisfactory laws must be established. The discoveries in the arts and sciences, the inventions of new contrivances for labor, the enlargement of industrial pursuits, and the increase and development of commerce, are without precedence, and the science of law must keep pace with them all; nay, it must even forecast the event, and so frame its laws as will most adequately sub serve the wants and provide for the wants of the new conditions. Hence, the lawyer is a man of today. The exigencies he must meet are those of his own time. His capital is his ability and his individuality. He cannot bequeath to his successors the characteristics that distinguished him, and at his going, as a general thing, the very evidences of his work disappear.

ANTHONY THORTON, President of the Illinois State Bar Association, in 1878, in an address before the association, thus speaks of the lawyer: “In the American State the great and good lawyer must always be prominent, for he is one of the forces which move and control society. Public confidence has generally been reposed in the legal profession. It has ever been the defender of popular rights, the champion of freedom, regulated by law, the firm support of good government. In times of danger it has stood like a rock and breasted the mad passions of the hour, and firmly resisted tumult and faction. No politician preferment, no mere place, can add the power or increase the honor which belong to the pure and educated lawyer. The fame of Mansfield and Marshall and Story can never die. “Times’ iron feet can print no ruin trace’ upon their character. Their learning and luminous exposition of our jurisprudence will always light our pathway. It is our duty to preserve the prestige of the profession. The past, at least, is secure; the present and future summon us to action. With the progress of society and the increase of population, wealth and trade, varied interests arise, and novel questions requiring more thought confront us. A disregard of the law has been developed, crime meets us unabashed, and corruption stands unmasked in the high places of the land. It is no fancy picture that the law has, to some extent, lost its authority, an it is only the shade of that which once was great. Hence, new duties are imposed and a firmer courage is required.

The exaltation of the profession is a duty enjoined upon us. It is a debt which only death can discharge. Lord Bacon has said: “Every man is a debtor to his profession, from the which, as men of course do seek to receive countenance and profit, so ought they of duty to endeavor themselves, by way of amends, to be a help and ornament thereto.” Every lawyer is a debtor to his profession. If worthy, it gives him an honorable character and high position. The lawyer should prize and love his profession. He should value its past renown, and cherish the memory of great men whose gigantic shadows walk by us still. he should love it for the intrinsic worth and innate truth of the fundamental truths which adorn it."

THE BAR OF THE PAST

The bar of Tama county has numbered among its members some who have been an honor, not only to the county, but to the state as well. So far as material was accessible, sketches are given of each attorney who has practiced before the courts of the county. If any are omitted it is because their names have been forgotten, and not from intention. The peculiarities and personalities which form so pleasing and interesting a part of the lives of the members of the bar, and which, indeed, constitute the charm of local history, are in a great measure wanting. Unlike the fair plaintiff in the famous Bardell vs. Pickwick, we have no painstaking “sergeant to relate the facts and circumstances of the case.”

Of those attorneys who resided in the county at one time, and are now either dead or have quit practice, or gone, the historian will speak first. Later, of the present bar.

Among those who have practiced before the courts of Tama county and who have been resident lawyers, were the following: Alford Phillips, Timothy Brown, Mr. Johnson, Isaac L. Allen, Noah Levering, T. Walter Jackson, Nathan C. Wieting, Charles J. L. Foster, Eugene B. Bolens, Paul Queal, Albert Stoddard, T. F. Bradford, John G. Safely, Charles H. Crawford, G. H. Goodrich, Homer S. Bradshaw, William Reickhoff, Michael Aunist, George Raines, Charles R. Appelgate, Thomas S. Free, J. W. Stewart, Mr. Bangs, Mr. Crafts, W. L. Crozier, C. E. Hibbard, E. M. Doe, George W. Stinson, G. P. Griswold, Randolph & Hotchkiss, Captain J. G. Strong, A. Branaman, Mr. Dougherty, Mr. Townsend, Frederick & Hartshorn.

About the first attorney to locate in Tama county was Alford Phillips, who came here in the fall of 1853 and located upon a farm near the present site of Toledo. He was a native of New York, quite an intelligent man, and was the second prosecuting attorney of Tama county. He still lives in Toledo.

TIMOTHY BROWN, who was among the most successful of Tama county’s early lawyers, was born near Cooperstown, Otsego county, New York, on the 27th of December, 1827. When Timothy was four years of age, his parents removed to Unadilla, on the Susquehanna river, where he shared the advantages of winter schools, and after his majority, was for three terms a student of the Unadilla Academy. At the age of twenty-one he became a law student in the office of Hon. J. C. Gregory, of that place, now of Madison, Wisconsin. After two years study he entered the office of his uncle, Elijah Brown, of Milford, New York. At the end of a year his uncle moved to New York City, and Timothy having been admitted to the bar, opened an office and began his professional career. In the spring of 1855, closing his business in Milford, he moved to the west and settled in Toledo, Tama county, Iowa, where he practiced law; a portion of the time being in partnership with Isaac L. Allen. In 1857, he removed to Marshall county. In the county seat excitement, he took an active part, and just before the county seat was permanently located at Marshalltown, he removed to that place and there still remains. As a lawyer, Timothy Brown has been decidedly successful, and is considered one of the best attorneys in this part of the State. His great forte lies in the way he works up a case, and brings out the details; he is a good jury lawyer, but is slow to answer a sharp hit by an opposing attorney, usually paying no attention, and pushing right on with his case. Mr. Brown is something above medium, in stature, standing six feet in height and weighting about one hundred and eighty-seven pounds. Politically, he is a Republican.

A good story is told of Brown by the old settlers, which will serve as an indication as to the color of his hair when he came here. In February, 1856, he, in company with Dr. P. L. Baldy, and P. L. Willey, procured horses and dogs, and started out for a wolf hunt, through the Iowa river and Salt Creek bottoms. Wolves were plenty, and it was not long until three were scared up and away went the bold hunters, horses, and dogs in hot pursuit. Tim’s horse was a superior animal to those ridden by his companions and he was rapidly distancing them. They crashed over the prairie, up hill and down hill, and through the bottom land of Plaquemin Creek, with terrific force. Brown was some distance ahead and was gaining at every step; his stirrups were flying, and he was hanging on for dear life, while his waving hair furnished a beacon for those in the rear. Suddenly – when he was about a mile east of the present site of Chelsea – his horse made a lunge and with a crash went down back-deep into one of the treacherous sink-holes of the Plaquemin bottoms, while Brown went flying right over the horse’s head and into a hole a few feet in advance! The others rapidly came up and pulled Tim out and then with difficulty, extracted the horse. Neither was seriously hurt, Tim mounted and again they set out for the wolves, but soon found that they had got away, and the hunters gave up the chase. When they returned to Toledo, the news of the escapade got out and the people began congratulating themselves, saying that as “Tim had struck head first, it was lucky there was a heavy coat of snow, as it would surely have set the prairie a fire.” Tim’s head of hair – like Albany, New York – was “forty miles from Auburn.”

An attorney named JOHNSON, located in Toledo in the early spring of 1855 and remained for a few months. He was a young man probably 26 years old, and a fine looking fellow. He had been admitted to the bar previous to coming here, and was a well read, and capable man, a lawyer of good ability. There was but little business to do here, and he did not even make enough to pay his board. Finally becoming discouraged he took his earthly possessions in his grip-sack and quietly walked out of town leaving his bills unpaid. He afterwards wrote to Col. John Connell, stating that he was sorry he had to do it, but he “could not bear to eat other people’s bread and molasses so he left.” Just as he was leaving the place he was met by Dr. Baldy, who remarked jokingly: "Hello! running away?" "Oh! no, " he replied, blushing considerably and went on. As time went by and he did not turn up, the people came to the conclusion that that was just what he had done, although when the doctor spoke to him, such a thing as its being true was the farthereest from his mind. [There has been some controversy as to the name of this lawyer, but a majority of the early settlers agree that it was Johnson.]

ISAAC L. ALLEN was one of the most able attorneys who have honored the bar of Tama county. He was a native of Vermont, but came to Tama county from Marion, - where he had been in practice for a short time, - in the fall of 1855. he was a single man at the time, but was married in the summer of the following year. He at once opened an office, and in partnership with Timothy Brown, commenced the practice of law. He was well posted, a graduate of the Albany Law school, and also a classical graduate of some eastern college. He had a good share of the business of early days, and was very successful. In 1858, he was elected district attorney, was re-elected in 1862 and served until elected Attorney General of Iowa in October 1864. During this year his health failed and in January, 1866, he was obliged to resign his office on account of softening of the brain. In the fall of 1865 In the fall of 1865, he purchased property in Marion, and removed to that place. He rapidly grew worse and was finally placed in the Insane Asylum where he died in December, 1868. His partnership with Timothy Brown, continued until Brown went to Marshalltown in 1857, from that date until 1863 he was alone in business. In 1863 he and George R. Struble, formed a partnership which continued until he removed to Marion. Soon after his death his wife returned to New York. Isaac L. Allen was an excellent lawyer, both in office and before a jury, perhaps the latter was his great lever of success. He was a good speaker, and had a strong argumentative and logical mind. Before a jury he was perfectly at ease, and in pleading drew vivid and practical illustrations.

NOAH LEVERING came to Tama county in the spring of 1856 located at Toledo, and was among the first attorneys in the county. He was native of Ohio, had a fair education and was admitted to the bar after his arrival in Toledo. He made a first-rate lawyer, and had his hsare of the business. He remained a few years and then went to Sioux City where he still lives.

T. WALTER JACKSON came to Toledo in April, 1856, in company with Nathan C. Wieting. Being both admitted to the practice of law, they at once formed a partnership and opened an office. Jackson was a native of West Troy, New York, and was about twenty-two years of age at the time of coming here. He and Mr. Weiting had been school acquaintances in a New York seminary. Jackson was one of the most eloquent and brilliant orators the State has ever possessed and certainly the county has never had his equal. He was well posted, especially in history, a good judge of human nature, and had that wonderful power of word-painting which would carry an audience with him, almost breathless. His influence over an audience was something remarkable; his logical and eloquent flights would hold his hearers spell-bound and speechless, until reaching the climax, when, after a moment of painful silence, the pent-up feeling burst with the wildest applause. He built up a very extensive practive and became very popular in the new country. In 1857 he was elected to represent his district in the Legislature, and was recognized as the most able and powerful orator in that General Assembly. When the war broke out Mr. Jackson enlisted and served for a short time. In a few months he returned to his old home in West Troy, New York - having been married while here- and engaged in practice there. He was afterward an attorney in some of the largest and most important cases in Albany, New York. He continued in his profession until the time of his death, which occurred in 1870. As a lawyer, T. Walter Jackson was bold, logical and self-reliant, and his power before a jury was almost unlimited. To show how he was held by the bar: On one occasion while he was yet a young man, he was employed for the prosecution of a murder trial which had been transferred from this to Johnson county. His opposing counsel - for the defense - was I. M. Preston, who was conceded to be one of the leading attorneys in this part of the State. Preston, in speaking of the case afterward said that, he made his plea one upon which he devoted all his talent and energy, and considered it one of the best efforts of his life. After finishing, he turned the jury over to Jackson and took a seat outside the room. Jackson began, and in a few moments, as Mr. Preston said, "The audience began to crowd toward the railing; I heard Jackson and got up and went inside the bar. I never heard such eloquence! My arguments dwindled into insignificance and I saw the case passing beyond my reach. It was the most able plea I ever heard." This is a suffiecient eulogy to Mr. Jackson, and he was all that it implied. Had it not been for the fault that has ruined so many great men, he might, years ago, have occupied the highest position in the gift of the people of the State.

NATHAN C. WEITING became a member of the bar of Tama county in the spring of 1856, and his residence in Toledo has been continued since that time, although he has not been actively engaged in the profession. Nathan C. Wieting is a native of Otsego county, N. Y., born June 8, 1828. His parents were John C. and Katie C. (Planck) Wieting, both of German descent. His grandfather was a soldier in the war of the revolution; his father was a farmer, who was also born in New York, and who died in March, 1874, at the advanced age of 74 years. His mother died in February, 1853, at the age of forty-five years. Nathan C. was the oldest of a family of nine children, seven of whom are still living, having lost one brohter in the war of the rebelion. Three of the family, beside himself, are in Iowa, P. G. Wieting, in Toledo, Mrs. Arena A. Sewell, at Dennison, and Mrs. Lucinda M. Tipple, at Manchester, Iowa. Nathan was brought up on his father's farm having the advantage of district schools until nineteen years of age, when he struck out for himself, and began teaching in the winter and attending a seminary in the summer. When 26 years of age he began reading law, and during the following year started west and landed in Tama county on the 17th of April, 1856. The same spring he was admitted to the bar and commenced practice. He has made extensive trips to Kansas, Mississippi, and recently to Florida. Mr. Wieting edited for a number of years the Iowa Transcript, the first paper established in the county, and has also at various times been interested in other newspaper enterprises, as will be seen by a glance at the press chapter. He was prosecuting attorney of the county, and has been deputy United States assessor, and also deputy collector of Internal Revenue. Mr. Weiting is a medium sized heavy set man, with dark complexion; a gentleman in every sense; unassuming in manner; yet with the force of will, and confidence in his own resources, which know no such word as fail. He is an excellent writer, and a man with a vast amount of information.

CHARLES J. L. FOSTER became a member of the bar of Tama county in 1856, locating at Toledo. He was a native of Michigan; was a married man but left his wife at his old home while he sought a location in the west; she arrived as soon as he had decided to permanently locate. His father was a prominent and wealthy man in Michigan, and Charles was given the benefit of a collegiate education, as well as law training. He had been admitted to the bar and had engaged in practice before coming to Tama county. He was a good lawyer and a fair orator, although the business of the then new country did not furnish enough work to keep him busy. After three years sojourn in Toledo he removed to Poweshiek county. He afterward represented that county in the Lower House of the General Assembly of the State.

EUGENE B. BOLENS came to Tama county locating at Toledo in the summer of 1856. He was a native of Ohio; a married man and brought his family, consisting of a wife and one child, with him. They both died shortly after his arrival. For a time was engaged in the publication of the ToledoTribune but devoted some of his time to the practice of law. He ramained until 1860, having been married again in the meantime, and then removed to La Crosse, stopping a short time at various points before reaching his final destination. Bolens was a man hard to describe; small, quick, wiry, and of a nervous temperament. He was sharp, quick witted, and, when excited, vindicative and lost his self control. He had formerly been a whig, politically, but something had changed him and while here he was a Democrat and Secessionist, his talk having the same ring of treason; that characterized Brick Pomeroy through the rebellion. As a lawyer he had fair success considering the times; he was studious and industrious in his business, shrewd and wiry with his cases and a forcible talker before a jury.

PAUL QUEAL came to Tama county at an early day from Onondaga county, New York and located at Toledo. he only remained a few months when he moved further west. He was a young man, smart, quick witted and intelligent, with good prospect for success in life.

ALBERT STODDARD became a member of the Tama county bar in 1859, locating at Toledo. He was a native of Connecticut, but came here from Fort Madison, where he had been for several years, editing a newspaper. He was admitted to the bar at that place, and commenced practice soon after his arrival here. When the war broke out he enlisted, became Captain of Company C., 10th Iowa Infantry, and served to the close of the rebellion. Returning, he resumed the practice of law continuing until the time of his death, which took place about 1870. Mr. Stoddard was a good writer, easy and full of pith, and made an excellent newspaper man; but did not make as successful a lawyer as his friends had imagined; not for want of ability, but for some reason he soon lost interest in it. He was really more successful than the average lawyer but not what he might have been. He was a good deal of a politician and made a good stump speech. Socially he was a pleasant, genial and rather talkative man, and had an easy, good natured and jovial disposition, which found vent in cracking jokes. He was deputy assessor of Internal Revenue, under John Connell, during the Andy Johnson administration. His family remained in Toledo a few years after his death and removed to Illinois.

T. F. BRADFORD came to Tama county in 1861, and began the practice of law. He was a native of Tennessee, from which State he had been driven by the excitement preceding the war. He had been admitted to the bar and in practice in Tennessee and while here was very successful in his profession. He was a good jury lawyer and had a good knowledge and understanding of the law. In June, 1862, he was appointed County Judge by the Board of Supervisors to fill the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Judge John Allen. After serving out the unexpired term he returned to the practice of law. In October, 1863, he was elected County Judge but resigned within a few months to enter the army. When Bradford came to Tama county he had a dread of going to war, knowing that in case of capture he would be shown no mercy, having formerly been a Southerner, and was sore afraid that some scheme of conscription would be inaugurated whereby he would be forced into the service. But as the war progressed he became very patriotic and finally returned to Tennessee and volunteered in a regiment, which had been raised by his brother. About one-half the regiment was composed of Negroes, and was stationed at Fort Pillow about seventy miles above Memphis, on the Mississippi. Early in 1864 the Fort was surprised by General Forrest and the whole regiment massacred. T. F. Bradford who had been promoted to the Captaincy, being shot down while holding the Union flag. Mr. Bradford’s widow remained in the county four or five years, and subsequently married Col. C. K. Bodfish. They separated and she removed to Marshalltown where her brother, H. E. J. Boardman lives. T. F. Bradford was a man of great honor and integrity, faithful to a friend and bitter to an enemy. He was a pleasant, genial man socially, of easy habits, and made many friends.

JOHN G. SAFELY was a member of the Tama county bar, located at Toledo. He was born in Cohoes, New York, November 2, 1839, and died in Perry township, July 12, 1870. He was but one year old when his parents moved to Iowa and settled in Cedar county, so he knew no other than his Iowa home. In boyhood he showed great taste for books, and notwithstanding the imperfect school privileges of a half century ago, as compared with those of today, he made rapid advancement, and was early prepared for college. He graduated from Cornell College with full classical honors, in 1859, when he was twenty years of age. The stormy times of 1860-61, soon diverted the attention of the young graduate from any plans for the future, which he may have entertained. Prompted by a desire to serve his threatened country, and to do what he could to avert the danger, in whatever capacity, he enlisted as a private in Company K, Eleventh Iowa Volunteers. His abilities and brave conduct were such, that, before the close of the war, he was promoted to the captaincy of Company I, same regiment and served until the close of the rebellion. Of the many engagements in which his regiment participated, the following may be mentioned: Shiloh, Seige of Corinth, Battles of Corinth, Vicksburg, Atlanta campaign, and the Battle of Atlanta. At the last named, he received a severe wound, from which he never fully recovered. In reporting the Battle of Atlanta, Colonel Abercrombie used the following language: "I would make mention of Sergeant Major John G. Safely, who, with the First Sergeant of Company K, John A. Buck (afterward killed - brave fellow), and a party of picked men numbering thirty or forty, made a dash over the works held by the enemy, bringing back more than their own number as prisoners, amongst whom were a Colonel and a Captain." On January 1, 1865, he was promoted to the captaincy of Company I, and was mustered out of the service with his regiment at Louisville, Kentucky, July 15, 1865. The war over, and while enjoying needed rest at his father's home, he was nominated and elected by the Republicans of Cedar county, to represent them in the State Legislature. He discharged his duties in such a manner as to reflect credit upon the judgement of those who elected him, and honor upon himself. At the expiration of his term in the legislature, he re-commenced preparation for his life-work, by entering the law shcool at Ann Arbor. He graduated in 1867, and came to Toledo, where he formed a partnership with W. H. Stivers. He was married in 1868 to Miss Jennie Fraseur, of Cedar county. Three children were born to them - Fred, Jessie and Bertha. Mr. Safely continued in active and successful practice until 1876, when his health failing, he retired to his farm., where he remained until the time of his death. Since her husband's demise, Mrs. Safely has successfully managed her large farm of 1000 acres. The Safely farm lies about three miles southwest from the village of Traer, in Perry township.

CHARLES H. CRAWFORD was also a member of the Tama county bar for some time, located at Toledo. He was a native of Mendota, La Salle county, Illinois, read law and was admitted to the bar at that place; then attended the University of Michigan, and graduated in law. He then returned to La Salle county, Illinois, and in 1869, company with Hon. L. G. Kinne, came to Iowa and located in Toledo. For a few months he and Mr. Kinne practiced in partnership, when they dissolved and L. G. Kinne became a partner of D. D. Applegate, while Mr. Crawford continued practice alone. He remained in Toledo for about two years, a portion of the time being city attorney; then returned to his old home, Mendota, Illinois. In a short time he removed to the city of Chicago, where he is still following his profession, living in Hyde Park. Crawford was a married man, a pleasant, genial, sociable fellow, and a first-rate lawyer.

G. H. GOODRICH became a member of the Tama county bar, settling in Toledo in about 1870. He was a native of Massachusetts, came to Iowa a few years previous to the time mentioned, and located in Tama City, where he was employed as clerk in one of the banks. After practicing for a short time alone, in 1873, he became a partner of Judge Geo. R. Struble. This business relation was continued for about four years, when, for two years he practiced alone, and then removed to Marshalltown. After a year’s sojourn in the latter city, he moved to Des Moines, where he still lives. When last heard from, he was employed as collector for some Chicago wholesale house. He was fine appearing, a good lawyer before a jury, having a good voice, and commanding presence. During his stay in Tama county, he was married.

HOMER S. BRADSHAW located at Toledo in 1871, and opened a law and collection office. He came from Mechanicsville, Iowa, where he had been employed for a number of years as principal of the public schools. He was a well educated man, and had a comparatively good practice, proving himself of more than ordinary legal ability. He has recently removed to Ida Grove, Iowa, where he is still in practice.

WILLIAM REICKHOFF came to Tama county and located in Toledo, in 1862, engaging at blacksmithing. In 1872 he sold his shop and engaged in the law and real estate business. In 1875 he began abstracting and remained here until 1881. He was a native of Germany, or at least of that descent, and was a married man. As to law, he never pretended to do very much, devoting his whole attention to real estate, abstract and loaning business. He was a careful and untiring business-man, thoroughly honest and reliable, and became rich while here. He was very out spoken, and in argument or discussion, when excited, would talk very plain, regardless of other’s feelings, being hard to manage in this respect, although, considerable of a politician, he never held any office here, it being thought he talked too plain. He never attempted public speaking. In 1881, he removed to Orange City, this State, where he still lives.

MICHAEL AUSTIN was a member of the bar of Tama county from 1874 to 1880. He came here from Grinnell, being a graduate of the college of that place, and entered into partnership with George L. Bailey,. He was a fair lawyer and had a good promise, although just commencing practice, having been admitted to the bar just prior to coming here. He was genial and affable and became popular, serving the city at different times as attorney and mayor. Upon leaving Toledo he returned to Grinnell, gave up the practice of law and became agent for a company handling header harvesters.

About 1874, a couple of young lawyers located in Toledo and opened an office near where the post office now stands, and remained for about six months, when they left for parts unknown. Their names cannot be recalled.

R. G. McINTIRE, the present county auditor, practiced law in Toledo for some time, then removed to Traer.

GEORGE RAINES was for many years one of Toledo’s practicing lawyers. He was an old settler in the county, and was for many years in the ministry. In 1883 he removed toDakota.

CHARLES R. APPELGATE was for some time engaged in the practice of law in Toledo, in partnership with his father, D. D. APPLEGATE. He was a graduate of the law department of the Iowa State University.

Among others who have been admitted to the bar here, or who have practiced for a time in Toledo are: Col. John Connell, Daniel Connell, Jr., T. A. Graham, Thomas S. Free, J. W. Stewart.Personal sketches of most of these gentlemen appear elsewhere in this volume.

An attorney named BANGS was one of the first lawyers to locate at Tama City. He located there in 1866, and remained for nearly two years. None rmember where he came from or where he went. He was married; about 45 years of age; a man of considerable ability, well read in law, a fair speaker and had sufficient “gassy traits,” but did little, if any, business while in Tama City.

MR. CRAFTS located at Tama City in 1867, and remained for about one year. He came form New York, was a man about thirty years of age, with a family and had been admitted to the bar previous to his coming here, although not in practice. He was a very good speaker, and was well reading law, but did not understand how to make its application. After leaving this place he went to Cedar Rapids; his whereabouts at present are unknown.

W. L. CROZIER was for a time engaged in the practice of law at Tama City. He had been prosecuting attorney of Dubuque county, but came here direct from St. Louis, to which place he returned after leaving Tama City. He was a man of fine ability as a lawyer, a good speaker and well informed on almost every subject. In personal appearance, it has often been remarked that he looked very much like Stephen A. Douglas. He is not living.

C. E. HIBBARD came to Tama City from Massachusetts in 1868. He had been in practice in his native State, and was a good lawyer, both in office and before a jury. He remained here for about four years and returned to Boston, where, when last heard from, he was engaged in his profession.

E. M. DOE came to Tama City from Iowa City in 1870, and began the practice of law. After remaining a few years he returned to Iowa City where he won quite a reputation as an equity lawyer. He subsequently removed to Texas. Was a graduate of the Iowa State University, and had a good deal of acquired as well as natural ability.

GEORGE W. STNISON located in Tama City in 1875, coming from Kansas where he had been in the practice of law. He formed a partnership with O. H. Mills and remained two years, when he returned to Kansas and located at Phillipsburg. He was a very successful lawyer.

G. P. GRISWOLD practiced law in Tama City for about one year. He came here from Michigan in 1878, and from here went to Marshalltown. He had been in practice before coming here and was a good general lawyer.

The law firm of RANDOLPH & HOTCHKISS, opened an office in Tama City in 1881 and remained in practice for a short time.

Captain J. G. STRONG located in Traer soon after the village started, coming from Tama City. He remained for several years and then removed to Grundy Center. From there he moved to Brett, where he still lives. He was a well educated man and a successful lawyer.

A. BRANAMAN, commenced practice in Traer about 1874, and continued practice in Traer about 1874, and continued for several years, when he went to Dysart where he started a bank. He is now in Grundy Center.

MR. DOUGHERTY, a native of Kentucky, practiced law in Traer for five or six months.

About 1875, MR. TOWNSEND came from Washington, D. C., and opened a law office in Traer. He had been clerk in some of the government departments, was a smart fellow and a good lawyer. He remained about one year when he returned to his old home in Washington where he is now running a pension law office.

FREDERICK HARTSHORN, a graduate of the law department of the State University located at Traer in 1879, and opened a law office. He remained for about ten months, when he moved to Clarion where he still lives.S. C. LELAND, the present clerk of court of Tama county practiced law in Traer for some time. He is noticed elsewhere in this chapter.

THE PRESENT BAR.

The bar of Tama county of to-day has many able representatives. Almost without an exception, they are men of experience and thought; gentleman and scholars. In this connection are presented personal sketches of all those from whom a sketch could be obtained. They are arranged in the order in which the gentlemen commenced practice in the various towns of the county. The list comprises the following: W. H. Stivers, Hon. George R. Struble, D. D. Applegate, C. B. Bradshaw, Hon. L. G. Kinne, George L. Bailey, Hon. E. C. Ebersole, S. C. Leland, James A. Merritt, W. J. Ham, H. J. Stiger, William L. Lamb, J. W. Lamb, W. G. Sears, Wallace B. Louthan, Daniel Reamer, A. M. Moore, F. J. M. Wouser, O. H. Mills, A. W. Guernsey, W. H. H. Tiffany, James W. Willett, W. W. Wouser, Robert E. Austin, E. Harmon, James Fowler, E. T. Langley, Orson T. Brainerd R. G. McIntire, N. C. Rice, F. C. Wood, W. H. Wood, George L. Wilbur, E. H. Benedict, C. H. Roberts, Richard Fitzgerald, W. V.Dooley.

Prominent among the attorneys of Toledo is WILLIAM H. STIVERS, of the law firm of Stivers & Louthan. Mr. Stivers commenced the study of law while working at his trade- blacksmithing – and after five Years spent in this manner, came to Toledo, read law, and in March, 1857, was admitted to the bar at Marion, Linn county. He was born on the 18th of May, 1830, at what is now Attica, Wyoming county, New York. His father was a blacksmith by trade, and as soon as William became of sufficient age, he learned the trade and followed it until coming to Toledo in 1856. On the 22nd of august, 1852, he was married to Miss Emily Baugh, of Jones county, this State. Four children have been born to them – Emma, wife of M. J.Boyle, of Toledo; Seward J., George Sumner, and Lillie V., wife of W. B. Louthan,junior member of the firm of Stivers & Louthan.

Hon. GEORGE R. STRUBLE, the present Speaker of the House of Representatives of Iowa, and a member of the law firm of Struble & Kinne, Toledo, has been a prominent lawyer in Tama county for the past twenty-three years. He was born July 25, 1836, in Sussex county, New Jersey. His parents were Isaac and Emma T. (Cox) Struble both of whom are still living near Toledo, Iowa. When quite young, Mr. Struble removed from New Jersey to the vicinity of Fredericksburg, Virginia, and there remained with his parents until their removal to Chesterville, Ohio, in 1847. In 1856, Mr. Struble left Ohio, came to Iowa, and located first in Iowa City, but only remained in that place until the following spring, when he came to Toledo, Tama county, and has since made this his home. Mr. Struble was married at Toledo, Iowa, on the 19th of April, 1860, to Miss Sophia J. Nelson, daughter of Seth B. and Jane Nelson, and niece of Rev. Dr. H. A. Nelson, formerly of St. Louis, now of Geneva, New York. Mr. Struble first commenced the study of law in the office of T. Walter Jackson, and was admitted to the bar in February, 1860, at the regular term of the district court, Judge W. E. Miller presiding. In 1863 he formed a partnership with Isaac L. Allen, under the firm name of Allen & Struble. The partnership continued until 1865. During most of the time of this partnership, Mr. Allen was occupying the position of Attorney-General of the State. In 1870, Mr. Struble was elected judge of the circuit court of the Eighth judicial district, and held that responsible position until 1872. Mr. Struble was elected a member of the House of the 18th General Assembly of the State of Iowa, and re-elected to the 19th General Assembly, of which he was elected Speaker in 1882. He is now practicing law in Toledo, in partnership with L. G. Kinne, under the firm name of Struble & Kinne. He is also a member of the loan firm of H. J. Stiger & Co, and is one of the directors of the Toledo Savings Bank. In politics he is a republican, and is a member of the Congregational church of Toledo, Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Struble have been blessed with six children; Agnes N., wife of Hiram Baldwin, cashier of Toledo Savings Bank; May T., Gertrude N., Jessie F., George Herbert and Grace. Judge Struble is of medium height, well proportioned and is a fine appearing man; has a high forehead, a keen, penetrating eye. Socially, he is pleasant, affable and courteous, though always considering business paramount to social ties. As a lawyer, he is quick to see a point, has a ready and eloquent flow of language to push it; is a forcible speaker, well educated in his profession, and with a most successful practitioner. Judge Struble is a man in whom not only the county, but the State may take pride; and the honors that have been bestowed upon him have only served to make him more deserving of them. In his public life he has fully demonstrated himself to be a man of thorough integrity and sterling worth, possessing qualities which make him a leader among men.

D. D. APPLEGATE has been one of Toledo’s attorneys since 1868, and is among the oldest settlers of Tama county. He as born in Jackson county, Indiana, October 31, 1829, and was there reared upon a farm. In 1848 he left Indiana and came to Iowa, locating in Cedar county, where he remained until September, 1851, when he came to Tama county and located in Carlton township. In the spring of 1853, he was elected the first clerk of courts of Tama county; was re-elected from time to time and served until January, 1869, in the meantime reading law with Isaac L. Allen, ex-Attorney General, of Iowa, and in 1868, was admitted to the bar. He has followed the profession ever since. In 1856, Mr. Appelgate was married to Miss Margaret McLaury, of Delaware county, New York. They have six children. He was formerly an “old line Whig,” but since the organization of the Republican party, has advocated its principles. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and of the A. O. U. W. organization, a much respected and worthy citizen.

C. B. BRADSHAW was born December 26, 1839, at Richmond, Jefferson county, Ohio. His parents were Harvey and Susan (Sullivan) Bradshaw; the former a native of Connecticut; the latter of Pennsylvania. His father died at Mt. Vernon, Iowa, November 8, 1861; and his mother in June, 1873, at Toledo, Iowa. His father was a Methodist minister and at the time of his death, agent of Cornell College, Mt. Vernon. The family consisted of two sons- C. B., and H. S. Bradshaw, the latter practicing law at Ida Grove, Ida county, Iowa. C. B. was reared in Ohio, receiving his early education in the common schools. He came to Iowa in the spring of 1860, and entered Cornell College, remaining until August, 1862. At that time he enlisted in Co. F. 24th Iowa Vol. Inf’ty, joining Grant’s forces at Helena, Arkansas, started to Vicksburg, but before reaching there, was in the battles of Port. Gibson and Champion Hills, reaching Vicksburg on the 14th of May, 1863, and was there during the siege of that city. In July, 1865, he was discharged at Davenport, where his regiment disbanded. He then went to Michigan and entered the law department of Ann Arbor University, graduating in 1867. Mr. Bradshaw was admitted to the bar of Iowa, at Marion, Linn county, at a term of the district court, Judge Rothrock presiding. He then came to Toledo, and formed a partnership with G. R. Struble, which continued until the fall of 1870, at which time Mr. Struble withdrew from the firm to enter upon the duties of Circuit Judge, to which office he had been elected. Mr. Bradshaw has since been alone in business. He was married in December, 1867, to Miss Mary Ann Hayzlett, daughter of William and Elizabeth Hayzlett, a native of Linn county, this State. Mrs. Bradshaw graduated in the classical course at Cornell College, in June 1864. They have two children - Alice, born May 8, 1869; and Charles, August 4, 1871. in 1868, Mr. Bradshaw was admitted to practie before the Supreme Court of theState, at Dubuque, Iowa, before Judges Dillon, Cole, Beck and Wright. During his service in the Union Army, he was promoted to second Lieutenant then to first Lieutenant and during the last year of the war, he held the position if Captain. Mr. Bradshaw was formerly a Republican, but at the close of the war, joined the Democratic party.

HON L. G. KINNE, L.L.B. is one of the leading members of the bar of Tama county, and a member of the law firm of Strulble & Kinne, of Toledo. He was born November 5,1846, in Syracuse, New York; a son of Esop and Lydia Kinne. His father was a farmer living at the old homestead until his death in 1871; his mother died in 1865. Of the family, there are still living four boys and two girls. The subject of this sketch left home in 1865 and went to Mendota, Illinois, having in the meantime completed the course of the Syracuse High School. Remaining at Mendota during the summer of 1865, he kept books for his brother-in-law and studied law with Hon L. B. Crooker, since member of the Illinois legis1ature and present Collector of Internal Revenue with headquarters at Aurora, Illinois. In The fall he entered the Law Department of the University of Michigan, from which he graduated in 1868, receiving the degree of L. L. B. In the meantime, in 1867, was Admitted to the bar by the Supreme Court of Illinois. After graduating. he returned to Mendota, Illinois, and opening an office practiced there until 1869, when he came West and settled in Toledo, Tama county, where he still resides. Immediately after his arrival he formed a partnership with Charles H. Crawford, who came to the State with him, and continued in this connection for about six months when this relation was dissolved, and he formed a partnership with David D. Appelgate. In 1876, this partnership was dissolved and after continuing alone until November, 1877, Mr. Kinne became a partner with Judge George R. Struble, under the firm name of Struble & Kinne, which business relation is still maintained. Mr. Kinne was married in 1869 to Miss Mary E. Abrams, of Peru, Ill. They have two children Lillian and Hettie.

Politically Mr. Kinne is a Democrat, and one of the leading men of that party in Iowa. He has been mayor of the city of Toledo for three terms, and city attorney one term. He has been the candidate of his party for various high offices, among which are District Attorney, Circuit Judge, and in 1881 was the unanimous choice of his party for Governor of the State and ran considerably ahead of his ticket. He was also the unanimous choice of the Democratic party for the office of United States Senator and received a larger number of votes than any Democratic candidate since the State became Republican in politics. For the past ten years, he has, served upon the Democratic State Central Committee, either as Secretary or Chairman, almost constantly. During the political campaign of 1882 he was chairman of the Democratic Central Committee and managed in a manner which excited surprise and consternation in the ranks of the opposing parties. That his labor was efficient is shown by the official vote as compared with that of former years. In 1876 he was a delegate from Iowa to the National convention for the nomination of President. During his candidacy for Governor he made political speeches in fifty of Iowa's leading cities. In 1880, by invitation of the Democratic National Campaign Committee he spent three weeks in political speaking in the State of Indiana. In June, 1883, Mr. Kinne was again honored with the nomination for Governor, and entered upon the campaign with strong hopes of an election. It will thus be seen that Mr. Kinne is considered a leading member of the party with which he affiliates and in fact, has been honored by the party more than any other one man in the State. The fact that the Democratic party in Iowa is in the minority does not detract an atom from the flattering testimonial paid Mr. Kinne. He was unanimously chosen to represent and lead a party controlling over 1,000,000 votes, and it is a distinction of which any man may well be proud. Mr. Kinne in personal appearance, is fine looking, being a little above the average height of men. He has at various times edited a paper in Toledo and is at present editor and part owner of the Tama county Democrat. As a writer, he is forcible, clear, and pithy and uses excellent language. His articles are sometimes severe but only when occasion requires it, and there is no affection or straining as is so commonly found in newspaper editorials.

GEORGE L. BAILEY, one of the prominent attorneys of Toledo, was born in Camden, Lorain county, Ohio, on May 26, 1837. He is a son of Johiel and Hannah (Bates) Bailey, natives of Lewis county, New York, where they settled in an early day. In 1855, George's father emigrated to Tama county, locating on section 14, Toledo township, where he purchased land, opened a farm, and remained for a number of years. In 1864, he returned to Ohio, and located near Oberlin for the purpose of educating his family. The father died in 1864, leaving a widow and a large family to mourn his loss. Mrs. bailey is still living at Toledo at the advanced age of 79. George L., the subject of this sketch, was reared on a farm, and received a liberal education. In 1861 he was appointed deputy district clerk, which position he held until 1869. In the mean time he devoted all his spare time to the study of law. In 1869 he engaged in the land and loan business, and in January, 1871, was admitted to the bar, at a term of the circuit court, with Jude Struble presiding. He was married in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on the 18th day of May, 1864, to Miss Hattie E. Horton, daughter of Dennis Horton, a resident of Lorain county, Ohio. Two children have been born to them - Mabel H., who died in infancy, and Rollin H., born on the 17th of February, 1868. Mr. Bailey, in politics, is a Republican, and has given his support to that party since its organization. In 1869 he was elected justice of the peace, and held that office for two years. In 1873 he was elected clerk of Toledo township, and also city recorder of Toledo, holding the latter office for two years and the former for seven. Mr. Bailey is the present clerk of the school board of Toledo, having been first elected to that position in 1874. On the 9th of October, 1876, he was admitted to practice before all the circuit courts of the United States, by Judge Dillon, at Des Moines. The career of George L. Bailey has been both honorable and successful. He has always enjoyed the confidence and respect of the community in which he has lived. Since he came to Toledo he has taken a deep interest in everything that pertained to the growth and prosperity of the town. His social qualities are of the highest order; genial, affable, and a gentleman in every sense of the word. He is an upright citizen, a straight-forward business man, an ardent worker in the temperance cause, and would be an honor to any community in which his lot might be cast. He is a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity, holding the senior wardenship of Toledo Lodge No. 118, and has been an officer of that fraternity ever since joining it, in 1866, with the exception of one year.

E. C. EBERSOLE, Reporter of the Supreme Court of Iowa, and senior member of the law-firm of Ebersole & Willett, is, from his official position and private character, worthy of prominent mention among the leading citizens of Tama county. His earlier career was one continuous struggle to overcome obstacles, which seemed almost insurmountable, but developed in him an energy which was a guarantee that he would not fail to reach a position of honor and influence. Mr. Ebersole embodies the best traits of his ancestry. Of German parentage, he is, in its broadest and finest significance, a typical American. He was born October 18, 1840, at Mt. Pleasant, Pennsylvania. His father, Jacob Ebersole, was a carpenter by trade, whose industry and thrift kept him in comfortable circumstances. He was radical in all his proclivities, especially in his opposition to the abominations of slavery and intemperance, and instilled into his children principles of integrity, self-respect, and duty to mankind. He felt his own lack of education, and therefore made provision for his children to receive such aid in procuring an education, as they might desire. He died in 1856. His wife, Catharine (Keister) Ebersole, is living at Lecompton, Kansas, with her only daughter, Mrs. Flora Stauffer. She has two surviving sons – Solomon K., a merchant at Mt. Pleasant, Pennsylvania, and E. C., the subject of this sketch. E. C. Ebersole passed his youth in the public schools of his native place. The terms of his father’s will gave him an opportunity to secure a liberal education, and he entered Mt. Pleasant College. At the end of a year he found himself in health so impaired as to necessitate rest from mental application, and, when sufficiently recovered to resume his studies, the College had passed under the control of Otterbein University, of Ohio, and he followed it thither. January 1, 1861, he had nearly reached the close of the junior year in the classical course, when he was again compelled to suspend mental work. His ambition to proceed in his course of study led him in a few months to seek some institution of learning that offered a wider range of metaphysical studies, and, in April, 1861, he entered Amherst College, Massachusetts. Professor Seeley, now President of the College, occupied the chair of metaphysics. Manual exercise was a feature of the curriculum, and Mr. Ebersole found it beneficial to his health. He graduated in 1862 in a class of 53. He engaged for a few months as a teacher in the celebrated Tracy Institute at Tarrytown on the Hudson, and then returned home. He enlisted in the spring of 1863 in Dick's (detached) Pennsylvania Calvary, but was discharged in October following. During his last year in college, he was elected tutor at Otterbein, but did not accept. In July, 1863, he was elected Professor of Mathematics in Western College, Iowa, holding the chair for two years. In the spring of 1864, he enlisted in the "Student Company," (Company D., 44th Iowa Infantry, Col. Stephen H. Henderson commanding) to serve 100 days. On the expiration of that period, he resumed his duties in the college.

He was married September 25, 1865, to Francis E. Spencer, a teacher in the same college. Resigning their situations, they entered into an engagement to teach in the Fort Madison Academy, but Mr. Ebersole's health again failing, they abandoned teaching and moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

In the fall of 1866, Mr. Ebersole went to Chicago to pursue the study of law, and was engaged as tutor in a private family. Again illness interfered with his studies and he went to Pennsylvania to aid in the final settlement of his father's estate. This duty discharged, he returned to Iowa and purchased a tract of land near Jefferson, Green county, with the intention of combining out-door interests with mental study, but a disastrous fire put an end to this scheme.

Returning to Cedar Rapids, he was tendered the management of "Western College" and accepted. The students, by petition to the Trustees, procured his election as President in June, 1868, but on the same day he was elected Principal of the Preparatory Department , and assistant Professor of Ancient Languages in the Iowa State University. He accepted the latter position, which he held for two years.

Ad Interim, he had continued his course of preparation for the legal profession, and, resigning his appointment in the University, in June, 1870, he was admitted to the bar at the circuit court of Johnson County, Judge W. E. Miller presiding. Mr. Ebersole began practice at Iowa City, where he was associated with J. H. Coon, and later with Judge Z. C. Luse. In the spring of 1871 he went to Adel, Dallas county, Iowa, where he pursued his profession, and after a few months formed a partnership with S. A. Calvert, now Judge of one of the circuits of the Fifth Judicial District, under the firm name of Ebersole and Calvert.

He sold his business interests to his partner and went to Arkansas, prospecting. On his return, he was appointed Principal of the High School at Cedar Rapids, which he taught one year, his wife assisting. In 1873, he formed his present business relation with J. W. Willett, (see sketch) and located at Toledo, Iowa. This is now the oldest and one of the most prosperous of the law-firms in Tama county.

Mr. Ebersole served as Mayor of Toledo in 1876 and 1877, and again in 1881, and has acted in other municipal positions. In 1882 he was elected Reporter of the Supreme Court of Iowa, for four years. Mr. Ebersole is a man of keen observation, discriminating judgement, ripe scholarship, possessing a mind of wonderful balance and discipline. His peculiar gifts render him one of the safest lawyers and ablest counselors in the State. Mrs. Ebersole's parents were Daniel and Elizabeth (Horton) Spencer, natives of New York. Her father died in 1882, her mother resides at Cedar Rapids. Mr. and Mrs. Ebersole are members of the Congregational church. They have an adopted daughter - Maud. Mr. Ebersole is a Republican by heritage and choice. The political impressions received from his father, at a time when to be a "free-soiler" was to be a hero, wee sanctioned and confirmed by his mature judgment in after life. He believes in a very broad sense, that "all men are created equal," and rejoices to see those in the lower ranks going up highter, and to help them when he can. He refers with pardonable pride and enthusiasm to the fact that his relatives, both on his father's and mother's side, are all, so far as he knows, sober, honest, industrious and thrifty people, contented with such gains and honors as they have justly earned, and simple hearted enough to believe in the general goodness of their fellow-men, and in the existence and benevolence of an overruling Providence. In all matters of true reform, Mr. Ebersole belongs to the "Right Wind." In these matters he is not visionary, but practical, thinking it wiser to seek only so much as is fairly attainable than, by demanding all that is desirable, to fail in realizing anything.

JAMES W. WILLETT, of the law firm of Ebersole & Willett, is a native of Mercer county, Illinois, where his parents belonged to the pioneer element which formed the world wide repute of the Sucker State and developed her matchless record as a commonwealth. He passed his youth among the influences of the early period in the history of Illinois, and from them he received the qualities which have thus far characterized his career in public life. Ambitious energy, unfaltering courage, and a total want of self-consciousness are among his many marked traits. He early learned that a career worthy of his manhood would involve much of the stuff that baffles and overwhelms weak men, and, believing in all sincerity, that all he could be, depended on his inflexible faithfulness to the promptings of his inner nature, he took his resolves, and has never flinched his self-imposed obligations. In the work of the world, he decided to perform his art according to his own understanding, and subject to no vacillations from the predjudices and misconceptions of other men. His commerce with daily events and exegencies of the times has no feeble or uncertain ring. If he is misjudged by his generation, the ultimatum of his record will justly fix the responsibility. He regards his life and abilities as trusts of a character that admits of no dallying or deferring, and, in any emergency, or on any occasion, he acts with decision and directness of purpose. He is a candid and impassioned speaker, ranks fairly as an advocate among the legal fraternity of Iowa, and stands to the front in the ineterest of the political element to which he belongs. On coming to Iowa he at once threw himself into the arena of politics, and has ever since done valiant service int eh Republican ranks of his adopted state. General oratory, such as the period demands is his forte, and whatever the issue which enlists the strength of his eloquence, the element he represents suffers no disappointment. In forensic debate he is well-nigh peerless, and the judicial records of the courts where he has acted as advocate in some of the most important cases that have been argued before those August tribunals, present an enviable exhibit of his success in his chosen profession. Mr. Willett was born March 8, 1846. He is a son of William and Nancy J. (Dennison) Willett, residents of Mercer county, Illinois. His father was born in Mead county, Kentucky, and after his removal to Illinois engaged in mercantile business. His mother was a native of Wayne county, Indiana. Mr. Willett obtained a common school education, and in the spring of 1863, left the paternal roof to make his single handed contest with the world, and during the following summer, was a sailor on the great lakes, preparatory to a more important step. He enlisted in the United States Navy, October 1, 1863, and was enrolled at Cleveland, Ohio. He was assigned to the United States steamer "Springfield," under Commodore Foote, in the Mississippi Squadron of Admiral Porter. He was ranked as "Boatswains Mate," and after a year's service on the steamer he was transferred to the Naval Hospital Service on the Mississippi. He followed a sea-faring and river service occupation during several years, gathering material and knowledge of men and matters, which he has made subservient to his after career. Ad-interim, he pursued a course of study at Eastman's Commercial College at Poughkeepsie, New York, and was graduated with the class of 1867. In the spring of 1870 he made a flying visit to Tama county on business, and again in December of that year. February 1, 1871, he entered the law office of Stivers & Safely at Toledo to prosecute the studies of the profession. He was admitted to the bar, February 26, 1872, and remained with Messrs. Stivers & Safely until July, 1873. He had subsequently been admitted to practice in all the Federal and State Courts of Iowa. In August, 1873, he formed a co-partnership with the Hon. E. C. Ebersole, of Toledo under the firm name and style of Ebersole and Willett. Until the summer of 1879 their business was conducted at Toldeo; since that date Mr. Ebersole represents the firm at that place and Mr. Willett manages the office of the firm at Tama City; the co-partnership remaining intact. Mr. Willett was married December 24, 1874, to Miss A. R. Stoner, daughter of Isaac and Catherine Stoner, long time residents of Toledo. Mrs. Willett was born in Seneca county, Ohio. Their three children - William S., Maggie M., and James H., are aged seven , five and three years, respectively.

S. C. LELAND commenced the practice of law in Tama county in 1875, locating at Toledo, and continued in practice until elected clerk of courts of Tama county, in 1880. In 1882 he was re-elected to the office by a larger majority than any candidate upon the same ticket, and is now serving his second term. He was born in Quincy, Branch county, Mich., December 23, 1844. His parents were Elijah Leland and Julia Sherwood, who emigrated to Branch county, Michigan, in 1832, where the father took up land, opened a farm, and remained until his death, which occurred in June, 1863. S. C. Leland was reared and educated in his native State. In December, 1861, he enlisted in Battery G, First Michigan Light Artillery. In their first engagement at Cumberland Gap, he was taken prisoner and was held for two months, when he was paroled and returend to Michigan, where he remained until he was exchanged. He again joined his battery at Milliken's Bend and participated in the battles of Port Gibson, Champion Hills. Black River Bridge, siege and capture of vicksburg, Jackson, Miss., and others. He was mustered out at Jackson, Michigan, in January 1865. After he left the army e attended school at Hinsdale for htree years, and in 1871 he went to Charles City, Floyd county, Iowa, where he entered the law office of S. P. Leland. In 1873 he was admitted to the bar, and in 1875 came to Tama county, where he followed the practice of law until he was elected clerk of courts of Tama county. Mr. Leland has many of those characteristics which make a man popular. He is kind and considerate, and in his official capacity is always courteous, rendering all assistance necessary to those with whom he has business to transact. Mr. Leland is hte present mayor of the city of Toledo. He was married in Branch county, Michigan, to Miss Harriet Porter. By this union htere have been four children, three of whom are living - Fred, Jennie and Lillie. Mr. Leland is a member of the Knights of Pythias, Royal Arch Masons, and Grand Army of the Republic. In politics he is a republican, and cast his first vote for Abraham Lincoln.

JACOB W. LAMB, attorney-at-law, of Toledo, is one among the successful young men of Tama county. He was born in Columbus, Ohio, in 1849. His parents, D. C. and Rebecca (Waters) Lamb, came from Ohio to Tama county in the spring of 1856, when there were but few inhabitants and little expectation that Tama county would ever be what it is now. Jacob's early life was spent on a farm, and he was enabled to acquire a good common school education. In 1869 he entered the Iowa State University, and remained there six years, receiving the degree of Bachelor of Philosophy at his graduation, on the 30th of June, 1875. After receiving his diploma, he determined to make law his profession, and to this end, commenced his studies in the law department at Iowa City, remaining one year. June 20, 1876, he received his degree of Bachelor of Laws, and was admitted to practice in all the courts of the State, at the State House in Des Moines. From that date Mr. Lamb has been in the active law practice at Toledo, Tama county. He was built up a fine and lucrative practice. He is known as a man of untiring industry, sterling integrity, decided character and has every promise of a prosperous and honorable career. He is a hard student, thoroughly in love with his chosen profession, and a never tiring worker. Since he has been a member of the bar of Tama county he has been very close and attentive to busines, and it is already having its effect in a business way. In 1881 he worked hard and gave liberally to secure the location of the western college at Toledo; having himself had the advantages of a higher education, he felt keenly the importance and benefits of having a thorough educational institution in their midst, and therefore gave financially more than any other business man in Toledo of his years.

JAMES A. MERRITT, of Toledo, is a son of James b. and Laura C. (Wing) Merritt, and was born in Lunda, Livingston County, N.Y. October 10 1853. His father, also born in N.Y. was a mason by trade, which business he followed in his native state. In March, 1856, the family moved to Tama County, and pre-empted land on section 16, Highland Township. Here James was reared, receiving his education in the district schools and at seventeen, attended four years at Iowa College, Grinnell. In March 1878, he went to the state agricultural college, remaining until part way through the junior year, then attended the State University at Iowa City for about one year, and in July, 1877, came to Toledo, and entered the law office of Struble & Goodrich, to pursue that profession. When this partnership was dissolved, he entered the office of Struble & Kinne, studying at night and writing for the firm during the day, receiving $14.00 per month for his services. In November of 1878 Mr. Merritt was admitted to practice law in the circuit and district courts of Iowa, by Judge McKeen, his examination being conducted by C. H. Bradshaw, J. W. Willett, and M. Austin. He at once opened an office at Tama City, continuing there until the following June, then came to Toledo, where he is at present. On the first of June, 1881, he formed a partnership with W. G. Sears, a former classmate, and now does a general business under the name of Merritt & Sears. Mr. Merritt was married on August 9, 1882, to a Miss Ida L. McClain, a native of Illinois, born January 3, 1857. Her parents were James and Elizabeth R. (Heflin) McCain, natives of Flemingsburg, Ky. Mr. Merritt, in politics, is a Republican.

W. J. HAM is one of the prominent attorneys of Toledo, and having good success at the profession.

H. J. STIGER, was born on the 6th day of June, 1857, in Morrow County, Ohio, and is a son of S. and Abigail (Jackson) Stiger. In 1860, he came with his parents to Iowa, where his mother died in 1863, after which he lived with his grand-mother Mrs. Mary Jackson, at Galion, Ohio, for about two years, at the end of which time he returned to Iowa. In 1873, he commenced reading law in the office of Applegate & Kinne, where he remained until 1876. At this time he was appointed Deputy Auditor, but resigned the appointment in 1878, to accept the appointment of Deputy Treasurer of Tama County, which position he held until 1883. He was admitted to the bar on the 18th day of September 1880, and on the first day of August, 1881, he formed a partnership with L. J. Kinne & G. R. Struble in the real estate and Loan business. He also owns a half an interest in the Tama County Democrat. On the first day of June, 1882, he was married to Miss Carrie E. Blinn, a daughter of L.B. and Caroline (Siebert) Blinn, of Toledo Iowa.

WILLLIAM M. LAMB was born at Hebron, Licking county, Ohio, August 5, 1851, and came with his father to Tama county, Iowa, in the Spring of 1856. He remained with and worked for his parents on the farm, eight miles east of Toledo, like a faithful and obedient son until the fall of 1871, when he went with his brother to Iowa City to attend school and spent the first year there in the academy, preparing himself for entering the State University. The next fall (1872) he entered the collegiate department of the university, from which he graduated with a class of 25 in June, 1878, returning home at the close of each school year, and helping his father on the farm during the three months of the summer vacation.

During his collegiate life he remained out of school during the school year of 1875 and 1876, and during the winter taught school four months at Middleburg, Washington county, Iowa, and in the spring and summer returned and helped his father on the farm. The last of June 1876 he went to the Centennial Exhibition at Philadelphia, spending five weeks there and with relatives in Fairfield county, Ohio. In the fall of 1878 he entered the law department of the university at Iowa City, from which he graduated in June 1879, with a class of 126. During the winter of 1879 and 1880 he taught school fourmonths at Buckingham, Tama county, Iowa, and began the practice of law with his brother in the fall of 1880 in Toledo.

W. G. SEARS, of the law firm of Merritt & Sears, Toledo, was born in Winslow, Stephenson county, Illinois, on the 19th of November, 1854. When 10 years of age his parents emigrated to Tama county. His education was principally received in the common schools, but he was a student at the Agricultural college at Ames, Iowa, for one and a half years. In September, 1875, he entered the collegiate department of the State University at Iowa City, and in 1879 entered the law department, graduating in June, 1880. In October of the same year he went to Stanton, Nebraska, where he followed his profession for a short time. He then came to Toledo, where he formed his present partnership with Mr. Merritt. They are building up a lucrative business.

WALLACE B. LOUTHAN, of the law firm of Stivers & Louthan, Toledo, was born December 22, 1851, at Troy, Ohio, his parents being Dr. John B. and Mary M. (Mikesell) Louthan. The family having removed from the "Buckeye State," settled on Richland Creek Valley, Tama county, in March, 1855, where his father, being a physician, practiced medicine and opened up a small farm. In 1860 the family moved to Helena, this county, and here they carried on a large stock farm during a period of about twenty-one years. w. B. worked on the farm in summer and attended common school in winter, till he was 20 years old, at which age he attended the Tama City high schol one year, and afterwards completed the sophomore year of the philosophical course, in the Iowa State University. He has taught in Tama, Marshall and Ida counties, of this State, and one term in Ohio. He is of asandy complexion, about five feet and seven inches hight, average weight about 135 pounds. w. B. early desired to make the practice of law his life occupation, and accordingly, in February, 1879, entered the law office of Stivers & Bradshaw, at Toledo, Iowa, where, after one year’s close reading, he was admitted to the bar, February 28, 1880; and on the evening of the same day was married to Miss Lillie V. Stivers, youngest daughter of William H. Stivers, the senior partner of the firm. Lillie is a sterling type of American womanhood; she is intelligent, practical, and in every way an amiable lady and well worthy of her life partner. They have two children, both girls. Mr. Louthan succeeded Mr. Bradshaw in January, 1881, as a partner of Mr. Stivers in the law business. He is meeting with good success at the profession.

Daniel REAMER, of Toledo was born in Greensburg, Westmoreland County, Pa., on the 18th of January, 1855. He is a son of Daniel and Mary M. (Crooks) Reamer, who were parents of three sons and one daughter. Daniel is a graduate of Otterbein University, at Westerville, Ohio, where he graduated in June, 1878. In 1879 he entered the law office of Affee & Atkinson, of Greenburg, Pa. There he remained until March, 1881, then he came to Toledo, Tama County, where he was admitted to the bar during the same year by the district court.

A. M. MOORE is another of Toledo’s lawyers. He having a comparatively fair practice, and is making a good lawyer.

O. H. MILLS, of the firm of Mills & Guernsey, Tama City, was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, on the 14th day of August, 1845. He is a son of F. G. and Adeline (Powers) Mills. Ten years after his birth his family came to Iowa, and settled on a farm in Buchanan County. The subject of our sketch spent his early life on the farm, and received a good common school education, which enabled him to teach at the age of sixteen. In 1865 he began the study of law at Marion, Linn County, under Thomas Corbett, with whom he also completed his studies, and in 1867 was admitted to the bar of that county. Mr. Mills soon after located in Grand Traverse County, Michigan, where he practiced law until he came to Tama City in 1868. He immediately opened a law office here, and soon after associated himself with C. E. Hibbard, under the firm name of Hibbard & Mills. At the end of two years they dissolved. Mr. Mills then associated himself with, first, E. Harmon and later G. W. Stinson. These partnerships lasted two years each. During 1878 he associated himself with A. W. Guernsey, with whom he has since been associated. Mr. Mills is regarded as one of the ablest attorneys in Tama County, and also one of the most successful. In politics he is a Republican and has twice been elected as Mayor of Tama City. He is the present master of Hiram of Tyra Lodge, and occupies the position of high priest in Doric chapter; No. 54 R. A. M. Mr. Mills is also a member of the St. Bernard Commandery No.14, Belle Plaine. In April, 1863, he was married to Miss Mary J. Stinson, a native of Iowa. Six children have been born to them, four of whom are now living- Frank, Charles, Mertie, and Larry.

Probably one of the best read attorneys in Tama County is the subject of this sketch - H. H. TIFFANY. He is a native of New York, being born in Wayne County, May 5, 1828. His parents were Chandler and Lydia (Perkins) Tiffany. During his early life Mr. Tiffany attended common schools near his home, and later, the public schools of Adrian, Michigan; during which time he began reading law with Judge A. R. Tiffany, who was noted as a writer on criminal law; and also studied under F. C. Beaman, a member of congress from that district. In his youthful days the subject had made a vow that he would someday be a lawyer, therefore, as soon as old enough, he began fulfilling his promise. In 1854 he graduated from the Michigan University at Ann Arbor, in both the classical and law departments. Upon completing his education, Mr. Tiffany began the practice of his chosen profession in Toledo, Ohio, where he remained about eight years, and then removed to Syracuse, New York, where, in 1863 he was admitted to all courts of the state. After practicing in that city for three years, he turned his steps westward, and first located at Montezuma, Iowa, being admitted to all the courts of Iowa shortly after his settlement there. In April, 1870, he removed to Tama City where he has since gained the reputation of being one of the ablest lawyers of central Iowa. In politics he is a staunch Republican; he has held several of the local offices, among others, Mayor of Tama City. On the third day of December 1869, he was united in marriage with Rebecca Snyder, widow of Dr. Snyder, who was once the president of the Cincinnati Medical College. She settled in Tama County in 1859.

A. W. GUERNSEY, partner of O. H. Mills, is a native of Pennsylvania, and was born in Tioga County, of that state on the 14th day of 1834. He is a son of Joseph and Ann (Brewster) Guernsey. The first fifteen years of his life were spent at home attending district schools and helping with the farm work. He then spent three years on a whaling expedition, and upon leaving the ocean, followed railroading until the beginning of our late rebellion, at which time he enlisted in the company D 16th Pennsylvania cavalry, at the battle of Gettysburg, he was promoted to the second lieutenancy and on the second day of September, was made first lieutenant; in which rank he served until his resignation in January 1865. Mr. Guernsey participated in many battles; among others were Gettysburg, Mine run, The Wilderness, Shepardstown, Yellow Tavern, Travillion Station, and Petersburg. At the close of the war, he resumed railroading, which occupation he continued to followed until 1867, when he was compelled, on account of failing health, to abandon that work, as well as all other requiring manual labor. He therefore began the study of law and in 1869 came to Tama City. From the time of his settlement here until 1870, he prosecuted his studies, and was admitted to the bar of Tama County, in September of that year. June, 7th 1876 he was admitted to practice before the United States Court, and two days later was admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of Iowa. Soon after Mr. Guernsey entered into partnership with E. Harmon, which partnership lasted until 1878, since which time he has been associated with O. H. Mills. In politics, Mr. Guernsey is a democrat, and has held various offices of trust within the gift of the people. He was Secretary of the school board for several years and has always taken an active part in educational matters in Tama City. Mr. Guernsey was elected Mayor of Tama City, Iowa, March 5, 1883. He has taken the 32nd degree in Masonry, is a member of the A. O. U. W. and I. O. O. F. Fraternities. In 1856, he was married to Miss Harriet J. Crandall, a native of Tioga county, Pennsylvania. They have been blessed with two children - Clara M., now the wife of Frank Gadbury of Tama City, and Wallace C.

F. J. M. WONSER, who is postmaster at Tama City, was born at Ellisville, Fulton county, Illinois, May 5, 1838. His paternal ancestors were Hollanders; on his mother's side he comes of a long and famous line of English nobility and military distinction, she being a direct descendant of Sir John Churchill, duke of Marlborough. Mileden G. Wonser, his father was a pioneer of Illinois, and contributed his share to the hardship and privations common in the history of her dauntless corps of settlers. His mother's maiden name was Ruth M. Churchill. Mr. Wonser took his preparatory course of instruction in the log school house of his native county, "passing" thence to the frame structure of more pretensions, but with practically the same course of study. He made excellent use of his privileges, and from the age of 17 to 21 spent the winter seasons in teaching, and worked on a farm summers. The date of his marriage is recorded as January 1, 1859, when Miss Julia C. Weaver became his wife. Mr. Wonser decided on the profession of law as one likely to suit his ambition and taste, and he matriculated in the law department of the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, where he graduated in the class of 1865. In August 1865, he settled at Iuka, now Tama City, Iowa, where he entered upon the practice of his profession. After a few years he was compelled to relinquish his business, by a bronchial difficulty, which precluded his performance of the duties of an advocate, and he decided to change his vocation. October 8, 1875, he purchased the office and interests of the "Tama Citizen", which he merged into that of the "Tama Herald" and immediately entered upon the publication of the latter named journal. Its existence is still maintained, and its business relations are managed by his son, who is present proprietor. Mr. Wonser is still editorially connected with the paper. He is earnestly interested in all issues involving moral reforms, and realizing the power to be wielded, even by comparatively small journalistic enterprises, he determined that the "Tama Herald", while under his control, should rank as an out and out temperance periodical. If any problem was to be demonstrated by the venture, so to speak, he is quite satisfied with the solution he reached. He has served as postmaster at Tama on an earlier appointment, continuing eight years and expiring April 1879. He was re-commissioned to the same position March 1, 1883. Mr. Wonser belongs to a class pre-eminent in every western community - cultured without ostentation, genial without loss of dignity, and popular with-out sacrifice of manliness. He is efficient in his relations with the public, warmly interested in the progress and stability of the sate of his adoption, and possesses traits that render him a valuable citizen. Of eight children born to Mr. And Mrs. Wonser, two died in infancy. Those surviving are - Wm. W., an attorney at Tama City; Charles J., proprietor of the "Tama Herald"; Flora, Celestia, Ella, Fred and Vera. Mr. Wonser belongs to the Prohibition element, and, on all occasions when his abilities or influence could be brought to bear on the issues of the movement in his vicinity, he has been foremost in the work.

W. W. WONSER, of Tama City, is a son of F. J. M. and Julia C. (Weaver) Wonser; was born in Whiteside county, Illinois, December 21, 1859. In 1866 the family removed to Tama county, Iowa, were Mr. Wonser's father became one of the prominent attorneys of Tama City. The subject of our sketch received his education in the Tama City High school; and during 1878-9, he attended the law department of the Michigan University, at Ann Arbor. Subsequently he read law two years with Struble & Kinne, of Toledo. He was admitted to the bar in February, 1881, before Judge Shane, and immediately began the practice of law in Tama City. In June, 1882, he became editor of the "Tama Herald", which position he still fills. Mr Wonser was married September 7, 1881, to Miss Bertie Lamb, a native of Pennsylvania. They have one child - Ferne, born July 28, 1882.

ROBERT E. AUSTIN, of Tama City, ex-Sherriff of Tama county, is despite his own modest disclaimer, justly rated as among the most reliable citizens of Tama county. Born and bred in one of the best sections of New York, his character has retained all the sturdy integrity and fixedness of principle, fostered by the influences under which he grew to manhood. Since his residence in Tama county, his business relations have been broad and extended, and the public confidence he has won quietly and without effort, is as substantial as that of any other man in the community. The facts pertaining to his political record since he began his career in the State of Iowa, sufficiently attest the estimate in which he is generally held. A Democrat, he carried a strongly Republican county for Sheriff three times by more that 500 majority, a fact seldom paralleled even in the non-conservative West. His personal traits are strongly marked - reticent, observing, discriminating, faithful in his friendships and lenient in his opinions, he exercises an influence which is more felt that perceived, and notwithstanding his nature is so retiring as to amount nearly to diffidence, he holds a position in the genial esteem second to none. His nomination as Democratic candidate for Congress from the Fifth Iowa District gives evidence that he is honored beyond the limits of his own county, his party clearly perceiving its opportunity in his distinction at home. Mr. Austin was born April 2, 1827, in Broome county, New York. His father, J. A. S. Austin, was a native of Connecticut and was a soldier of the war of 1812; he died in 1866. Mr. Austin's mother, Tamson (Baker) Austin, was born in New York, where she is still living in Broome county. Four of her children rejoice in her hale old age - Robert K, Lydia, Carrie (Mrs. Harry Martin of Colesville, Brown county) and W. H. Austin resident at Clarkville, Merrick county, Nebraska. The latter was a soldier of the civil war from its inception to its end, honoring his heritage of patriotism from his grand - sires, both of whom fought in the Revolution. Mr. Austin was married December 31, 1849 to Mary Wilcox, of Broome county, New York. Their family of nine children are all living. Winfield. S., is a graduate of Middlébury College, Vermont, and is now, a practicing attorney at Seattle, on Puget Sound, Washington Territory. The second and third sons, Clifford C. and Frank, are engaged in land and timber operations at the same place. The six remaining children are ­ Carrie (Mrs. U. Stoner of Toledo), Metta, (Mrs. W. D.Beedy of Monticello), George 11., Belle, Arthur E. and Robert E.

Mr. Austin came to Linn county, Iowa, in the spring of 1856, and operated there eight years as a carpenter and house builder. In 1864 he moved to Tama and was occupied with his trade and farming until 1874, when he was elected Sheriff of Tama County and served six years. In 1880 he was admitted to the bar to practice law but has never had leisure from business engagements to enter the profession. He is a member of the Masonic Order.

E. HARMON, Justice of the Peace of Tama City, was born in the State of Vermont, March 12, 1826, and is a son of Jared and Clara (Harmon) Harmon. Soon after his birth, the family removed to Otsego county, New York, where he grew to manhood and obtained a liberal common school education. He was reared on a farm, but after reaching his majority, engaged in the lumber business and also followed mercantile pursuits. In 1855 he removed to Tama county, Iowa, locating in Toledo, where he soon became engaged in general merchandise. In 1862 he settled in Tama City, since which time he has done more or less insurance business. In 1875 he was admitted to the Tama County Bar, having studied law during his leisure hours for a number of years pre­vious. In politics he's a Republican. Has held the office of Justice of the Peace for the past ten years, and at the election of 1882 was re?elected for another term of two years. In 1871 he built the Harmon House, which was totally destroyed by fire, October 6, 1882. By its destruction, he, its owner and proprietor, lost at least ten thousand dollars. Mr. harmon held the office of Mayor of Tama City two years. He was married in 1854, to Miss Kitty N. Browning.

JAMES FOWLER, of Traer, is a native of Kentucky, born near New Castle, in October, 1832. His father died in 1838, and soon after his mother removed with her family to Southern Indiana, In 1852 Mr. Fowlor went to the northern part of Illinois, where he was married to Sarah Green, a native of Indiana. In 1856, they came to this county, and Mr. Fowler engaged alternately in farming and the mercantile business, at Toledo and Tama City, until the town of Traer came into existence, and, as it promised to be an important point, he took up his abode there. Mr Fowler at once turned his attention to the study of law, and has been in practice since the spring of 1874. Though he did not begin his practice until late in life, yet by patient study and natural adaptation to the profession, he has attained to considerable prominence among his brother lawyers. Mr. and Mrs. Fowler have three children—Mary, wife of W. W. Blanchard, Cordelia A. and Louise.

E. T. LANGLEY, attorney and postmaster, came to Traer in March, 1876. He was born in Ohio in 1843; his father, J. E. Langley, came to Iowa with his family in 1855, and settled in Linn county. He now lives in Kansas. Mr. Langley enlisted in 1861 in the 14th regiment, Iowa Volunteer Infantry, and served three years. He was taken prisoner at the battle of Shiloh and was held prisoner about six months. He was admitted to the bar in Benton county in 1872. He is engaged in the practice of his profession; also, in attending to his duties as postmaster. His wife was Lavancia E. Bloodgood, born in Walworth county, Wisconsin. They have one son—Charles C., born in October, 1867.

ORSON T. BRAINERD of Traer, is a native of Lewis county, New York, born in 1831. His parents, Hezekiah and Lovica Brainerd, removed to Geauga county, Ohio, when Orson was a child. Orson was brought up near the old home of Gen. Garfield, and was a school-mate of President Garfield for several terms at Geauga Seminary. Mr. Brainerd came to Tama county in August, 1855, and entered a quarter section of land in York township, where he lived and improved his farm until 1864. At this time, on account of ill health, he left the farm and removed to Tama city, where he engaged in the jewelry business. He was also located for three years at Rockford, Floyd county. Mr. Brainerd came to Traer in the fall of 1875, and in 1876 was elected Justice of the Peace, which office he has since held. He was also Justice of the Peace at Rockford. While acting in the capacity of Justice, he has devoted himself to the study of law, and was admitted to the bar in September, 1878. Mrs. Brainerd was formerly Miss Orissa A. McGee, born in New Hampshire. They have seven children—Arthur T., Charles E., Flora A., Laura, Welman S., Clarence A. and Loe (sic) M. Mr. Brainerd’s father was a resident of Toledo, this county, from 1856 to 1867, when he returned to Ohio. He is eighty-seven years of age and is a pensioner of the war of 1812.

R. G. McINTIRE was one of the lawyers at Traer for several years prior to his election as county Auditor, in 1877. He has been twice re-elected to this office and is the present incumbent. He was born in Erie county, Pennsylvania, November 14, 1830. When thirteen years old, his parents emigrated to Clinton county, Iowa, where his father took up a large tract of land, opened up a farm and remained until his death, which occurred June 15, 1877. His mother died in 1868. They were among the early settlers of Clinton county. In early life the parents joined the Congregational church, but after coming to Iowa they united with the Methodists. The subject of this sketch was educated in the common schools and in Knox College, Ills. In 1852, he went to California in search of a fortune. He spent eight years mining and prospecting for gold and then turned his attention to the practice of law and was admitted to the bar in 1860. In 1864 he enlisted in the 2nd California Cavalry and remained in the service until April 1866, when he returned to Iowa. In the fall of 1867 he purchased land in Tama county, and the following year began farming. In 1873 he removed to Traer where he purchased the first bill of lumber used in building that prosperous town. In the fall of 1877, he was elected to the office of county Auditor, which office he has since held with credit to himself and to his constituents. Mr. McIntire was married in Tama county,in 1868, to Miss Harriet Beatty, daughter of Henry Beatty, an old settler of the county. Three children bless this union- William H., Mattie P. and Edwin G. Mr. McIntire is a member of the I.O.O.F., the A.O.U.W. and the Legion of Honor.

The first attorney to locate at Dysart was Abraham Brannaman, who came from Traer in 1875 and remained until 1880.

In the spring of 1883 the legal profession in Dysart was represented by N. C. Rice, and F. C. and W. H. Wood.

N. C. RICE of Dysart, was born in Buffalo, New York, on the - day of November, 1824. His early life was spent in his native place, where he received an academic education, and studied law to some extent with his father, who was of that profession: and also afterwards with an uncle. During the first years of his manhood he removed to the State of Michigan, where he made a short stay, and in 1855, came to Tama county, Iowa, and settled on a farm near Traer. While tilling the soil, Mr. Rice employed his leisure time by reading law, and, in 1876, was admitted to the bar. During 1878, he came to Dysart and opened his present law office. In politics he was a Republican, until Horace Greeley's nomination for the Presidency, when he changed and voted for Mr. Greeley. He is now an Independent. Mr. Rice has always taken an active part in county politics; he was elected first Mayor of Dysart, and was Justice of the Peace four years. His marriage with Miss Sarah Dodge occurred in 1846. she bore him five children, all of whom are living, and died in 1863. He was married the second time in 1863, and chose for a helpmeet, Rachael Wood, of Perry township. she died December 20, 1882.

F. C. WOOD, of Dysart, is a native of Bureau county, Illinois, born January 11, 1859. Subsequently his father and family moved to Benton county, Iowa, where the subject of his sketch received a common school education. During 1878, he bagan the study of law with D. E. Voris, of Vinton, and March 1, 1881, was admitted to the bar before Judge Shane, at Toledo, Tama county. Mr. Wood began the practice of his profession at Dysart, in June, 1881. In the spring of 1882, W. H. Wood became a partner, and the firm continued F. C. and W. H. wood, until April 1, 1883, when W. H. Wood retired. F. C. Wood still conducts the business. He was married to Miss Della T. Short, April 1, 1882.

W. H. WOOD, of Dysart, was born in Wayne county, Ohio, April 13, 1853. Two years after his birth, the family removed to Bureau county, Illinois, and thence, nine years later, to Benton county, Iowa. W. H. received a good education in the common schools, and in 1878, began the study of law in the office of Nichols & Cooper, of Vinton. He was admitted to the bar of Benton county, March 10, 1880, before Judge Shane. Early in the spring of 1882, he associated himself with his brother, in Dysart, under the firm name of F. C. & W. H. Wood. In April 1883, this partnership was dissolved, W. H. Wood retireing.

The first lawyer at Gladbrook was GEO. L. WILBUR; the second was E. H. benedict. Both are still representing the legal profession at that place.

GEORGE L. WILBUR was born February 12, 1835, in Randolph, Norfolk county, Mass. He was the eldest son of Lockhart and Sarah (Spear) Wilbur. He recieved his education at Stetson high school in Randolph, from which institution he graduated in 1854, and became an assistant teacher in the school for one year, when he entered the law office of A. B. Berry, intending preparation for the bar. Before completing his studies he came to Tama county, Iowa, in March, 1857, and settled on land bought by his father the year previous, in what is now known as Lincoln township, and pursued the calling of a farmer until 1862, when he enlisted as a private in Capt. Woodburg's company "K" 23d Iowa Infantry. While in rendezvous at Des Moinses he was placed on detatched service as clerk in the Adjutant's office. While in Missouri he was appointed division Ordnance Sergeant on the recomendation on Col. Kinsman; remained in that position until relieved by General Davidson, commanding United States forces in Southwest Missouri; re-appointed to the Adjutant's office as clerk; was present at the battle of Black river; was by the side of the gallant Kinsman when his young life was given up on that bloody field; participated in the succeeding siege of Vicksburg; reported as clerk at headquarters 13th "A. C." by order of General Ord; remained at those headquarters until the corps was abolished by General Grant; and was then ordered to report to the headquarters military division of West Mississippi, Maj. Gen. E. R. S. Canby commanding; on Canby's recommendation was appointed captain in the U. S. colored infantry, which was declined; appointed second lieutenant headquarters troops of the Gulf; detached and placed on staff of General Canby as acting assistant Adjutant General, serving in this capacity until June 24, 1865, when he was discharged from the service on surgeons's certificate of disability; returned to Iowa and settled in Marshall county, and engaged in farming until 1875, when he resumed the study of the law and was admitted to the bar. He opened a law office at Traer, in partnership with S. P. Sheffield, under the firm name of Sheffield & Wilbur.

On the dissolution of the partnerhsip, he removed to Gladbrook, where he still continues in his profession. Politically, Mr. Wilbur is a radical republican casting his first vote for President, for Abraham Lincoln. He was married September 10, 1858, to Miss Adella W. Monlux, daughter of George and Martha (Bailey) Monlux. the have had eight children - Nellie A., wife of william B. Artz; Otis A., George, Jessie, Sadie, Annie, Hent and Ada. Nellie A., was the first child born in Lincoln township, Tama county Iowa. Mr. Wilbur is a member of the Masonic fraternity, Legion of Honor and V. A. S. fraternity.

E. H. BENEDICT is a native of Linn county, Iowa, born in 1856. His parents were L. D. and Sarapta (Minter) Benedict, the former a native of New York; the latter of Ohio. His father died in 1877, in Linn county, this State, where he had spent a part of his life. The subject of this sketch recieved his education at Lenox Collegiate Institute at Hopkinton, Iowa, and afterward took a course of law at the Iowa State University, where he graduated in 1882. He than came to Gladbrook, this county, in the fall of that year and opened a law office, doing a general law and collection business. Mr. Benedict is a straight republican and has always trained with that party. His wife was Miss Ada M. Fay, a daughter of John H. and Isabella (Ward) Fay.

C. H. ROBERTS, who represents the legal fraternity at Montour, was born in Manchester, Indiana, in 1840, his parents being Samuel and Maria (Clark) Roberts, both natives in New England. In 1842 the family moved west and settled at Fort Madison, Iowa. C. H. received a good education, and in 1869 went to Tama City, where he remained until December, 1870, when he removed to his present location, and has since devoted his attention to the practice of his profession. He was admitted to the bar at Marion, Linn county.

RICHARD FITZGERALD, Esq., of Carlton township, is a native of Dupage county, Ill., born in 1845. He is the son of P. H. and Mary (Barry ) Fitzgerald, natives of Ireland, who emigrated to America about the year 1838, settling in New York State, there remaining until 1843, when they moved to Dupage county, Ill. They raised a family of eleven children, Richard P., the subject of this sketch, being the fourth. In May, 1864, Richard enlisted as a private in Company A, 140th Ills. Vol. Inf'ty. for 100 days, and was discharged in November of that year. On February 18, 1865, he re-enlisted in Co. G., 156th Ills. Vol. Inf'ty., to serve for one year. June 9, 1865, he was promoted to the position of 1st sergeant of his company, and soon after was recommended for a Lieutenantcy; but, owing to the close of the war, he only had charge of his company for a short time before he was mustered out of service, in October, 1865. Mr. Fitzgerald was educated in the common schools of whiteside county, Ills. After his discharge from the service, he returned to Illinois, and from there went to Lyons, this state, where he attended school. In May, 1866, he came to Tama county, settling in Carlton township, shere he now resides. Mr. Fitzgerald, since his youth, has had a desire to become a member of the bar, and has for years improved his leisure time by reading the works of eminent authors, and for a number of years has practiced in the lower courts of the county. The event of his life occurred on February 26, 1883, when he was admitted to the bar at the regular term of the district court, over which Judge James D. Giffins presided. Mr. F. was married on the 24th day of September, 1866, to Miss Elizabeth L. Welton, who was born in Moultrie county, Ill., in 1843. By this union there have been two children - Charles E. (deceased) and Ella E. Mrs. Fitzgerald is a member of the M. E. Church. Mr. F. was formerly a Republican, but a present is an anti-monopolist.

M. V. DOOLEY, lawyer and insurance agent, living in Spring Creek township, was born on the 8th of August, 1851, at La Salle, Ills., a son of P. L. and Anna (Green) Dooley. He received his education at the Polytechnic Institute, St. Louis, and graduated a Bachelor of Arts at St. Vincents College of Cape Gorardeau, Mo. He was principal of public instruction at La Salle Ills., for four years, until 1878, and was admitted to the bar at Ottawa, Ills.

In 1879 he removed to Cedar Rapids and took up life insurance as his profession. He is now general agent of the Iowa Mutual Benefit Association, of Toledo, Iowa. In politics he is a Democrat, casting his fist vote for President for Horace Greeley. He is a Roman Catholic in faith. On the 27th of December, 1881, he was married to Miss Kate M. Cole, daughter of T. M. and Mrs. Julia (Duncan) Cole, a graduate of St. Mary's Academy of La Salle, Ills., who has been principal of the intermediate department of the public schools of La Salle for five years. By this union there is one daughter, Mary Anna, born on the 27th of January, 1883.