1889 BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY OF
SHELBY AND AUDUBON COUNTIES, IOWA
W. S. DUNBAR & CO., PUBLISHERS
113 ADAMS STREET, CHICAGO
H
JAMES HALL is one of Cameron Town ship's energetic farmers, who give
char acter and influence to a community. He was born in Stark County,
Illinois, January 14,1845, and is the second son of Robert and Harriet
(Marsh) Hall. The grandfather was Robert Hall, a native of England,
who fought in the war of 1812 on the British side. Robert Hall, the
father of James, emigrated to America in 1836, and afterward married
and settled in Stark County, Illi nois, where he and his wife are
still living. The mother of our subject, Harriet Hall, was born In
the State of Pennsylvania, Nine children were born to her and Robert
Hall, six of whom are living. The childhood and school days of James
Hall were passed in Stark County, Illinois, where he received a greater
part of his education in the dis trict school. Later, however, he
entered the Princeton Academy In Bureau County, Illi nois. After leaving
school he began farming in his native county, and afterward spent
some time in Bureau County. In the spring of 1881 Mr. Hall removed
with his family to Audubon County, Iowa, locating upon his present
farm, which at that time was wild prairie land; and then the struggle
began in opening out the farm and making a new home.He afterward purchased
another 160 acre tract, securing in one body 320 acres of most excellent
land. The place is now well stocked with hogs and cattle, on which
Mr. Hall has made the most of his money. He has had his reverses,
as have had other farmers, but he has been generally very successful.
He has erected a large, substantial residence, barns, and sheds for
the protection of live stock. Mr. Hall was united in marriage, in
1875, to Miss Belle Hooker, of Peacham, Vermont, a daughter of Sanford
Hooker, Esq.This union has been blessed with six children Scott, Jay,
Florence, Lilla, Hattie and Ellen E. Mr. .Hall is an excellent judge
of livestock, and feeds from two to four car loads annually. Like
many other men who have made the most brilliant successes, Mr. Hall
began his career on a very limited capi tal, but industry and perseverance
made up what was lacking in another direction.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 789.
ISAAC P. HALLOCK, JR., a leading farmer of Audubon County, Iowa,
was born in in Kendall County, Illinois, March 21, 1840. He is the
youngest son of Isaac P. and Abigail H. (Smith) Hallock, who were
among the first settlers of Oakfield, Audubon County. Isaac P. Hallock,
Sr., was born in Clinton County, New York, in 1802; his father was
Israel Peter Hallock, of Scotch and French extraction. Abigail H.
Hallock was born in the State of Massachusetts, in the year 1800,
and died in the year 1885; she was the mother of eight children, six
of whom lived to maturity Elizabeth, wife of Thomas Diss more; Julia
A., wife of E. D. Bradley; Rich ard S., John A.; Sarah M., wife of
J. H. Basham, and Isaac Peter, the subject of this sketch. He was
fourteen years of age when his parents removed to Earlville, Illinois,
in which place they lived two years. In the fall of 1856 they came
to Audubon County, Iowa, and settled on a tract of land which is now
the old town site of Oakfield, as platted by Richard S. Hallock and
E. D. Bradley in 1857. Isaac P. Hallock, Sr., erected the first house
in the village; soon after coming to the county he was elected judge
for one term; he was then elected justice of the peace, a position
he held for several terms. He was appointed post master of Oakfield,
and held the office for many years. Mr. Hallock is still living, in
his eightyseventh year. Isaac P. Hallock, Jr., received only the advantages
of a common school education. The schoolhouse at Oak field was a cabin
of rude construction, which was afterward replaced by a frame building.
At the age of nineteen years he assumed the care and responsibility
of his father's farm, as his father was at that time afflicted with
asthma. He was very successful in the man agement of the place, and
at the same time made some profitable trades in livestock. He then
embarked in the mercantile business at Oakfield, being associated
with I. H. Jenkins and D. W. Powers; this firm continued to transact
business successfully for five years, and at the expiration of that
time Mr. Hal lock purchased the interest of both his part ners and
carried on the business alone. After a prosperous career of several
years Mr. Hallock sold his stock to T. E. Cotton, now deceased. He
then bought a stock of goods owned by his brother, J. A. Hallock,
at Exira, and managed that store for several years. At one time he
also owned a stock of hardware and farm implements at Brayton, Iowa.
In the early spring of 1881 Mr. Hallock opened a hard ware store in
Carson, Pottawattamie County, Iowa, having as a partner L. L. Archer;
they afterward sold out and invested the proceeds of the sale in Salt
Lake City real estate. Mr. Hallock is now largely engaged in feeding
sheep for Chicago markets; he also feeds large numbers of cattle and
hogs. Of later years he has given especial attention to the breeding
of heavy draft horses. His landed estate now covers 2,400 acres, and
with the direction of this and the care of the stock his time is fully
taken up. Mr. Hallock was married in his twentyeighth year to Malinda
A. Norton, of Oakfield, daughter of William C. Norton, who came to
Oakfield in 1856. They have had born to them seven children, four
of whom are living Abbie H., Keese C., Alice and Isaac Percy; three
died in infancy. Mr. Hal lock has been identified with almost every
enterprise that had for its object the advance ment and growth of
the town and progress of the community. He was one of the origina
tors, directors and stockholders of the Atlantic National Bank at
Atlantic, Iowa, and held his connection with that institution for
many years. At one time he was owner of the Oakfield flouringmills.
He is a staunch member of the Republican party; has held the offices
of township clerk, trustee, and been a member of the board of supervisors
of Au dubon County, Iowa, and township assessor at one time.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 696.
NATHANIEL HAMLIN It is a privi lege that many years hence will not
be vouchsafed to men to hear the history of pioneer days from the
lips of the worthy old pioneers themselves. Nathaniel Hamlin, the
first settler of Audubon County, Iowa, was born in Lewis County, Kentucky,
March 13, 1814. His father, William Hamlin, was also a native of Kentucky,
and was one of the first settlers of Lewis County. His grand father,
John Hamlin, of Scotch descent, emi grated from New Jersey to Kentucky.
His mother was Mary Smith, a daughter of James Smith, Esq., a native
of England, a sailor by occupation.After her marriage to William Hamlin
they settled in Lewis County, Ken tucky, and there dwelt until the
death of William Hamlin, which occurred in 1836 the wife and seven
children surviving. Some years after her husband's death Mrs. Hamlin
came to Iowa, and made her home with her son Nathaniel.She died at
the advanced age of 100 years, one month, and a few days. Nathaniel
Hamlin was married in Vermillion County, Illinois, April 9, 1840,
to Margaret Poague, daughter of Ellen andMargaret (Terrill) Poague.
Mrs. Hamlin was born in Greenup County, Kentucky, August 12, 1824,
but when she was two years old her parents removed to Vermillion County,
Illi nois. Nathaniel and Margaret Hamlin are the parents of twelve
children Mary M., wife of Isaac Thomas; Hannah M., wife of C. C. Hawk;
Sarah B., wife of B. F. Thomas; Malinda C., wife of William Radcliffe;
Will iam Allen, married Florence A. Lewis; Mar tha J., wife of E.
S. Calph; Eliza (deceased); Susan P., wife of John V. Plantz; Clarinda
H., wife of John M. Allen; Nathaniel D. married Elva Crane; Fernando
B., married Emma E. Kilworth; Robert E., married Sarah Wheeler. Mrs.
Hamlin's grandfather, Robert Poague, was a native of Scotland, and
her grandmother, Rebecca Poague, was born in Ireland.After their marriage
Mr. and Mrs. Hamlin settled in Vermillion County, Illinois, and there
resided until 1844; they then removed to Mahaska County, Iowa, and
lived there seven years. September 10, 1851, they came to their present
farm being the first actual settlers in the county of Audu bon.Mr.
Hamlin first entered 160 acres of land, selecting that on the waters
of Trouble some Creek, which is skirted by a beautiful natural grove.
To the south stretches a rich andfertile prairie, making an ideal
farm. land.Here the pioneer settled and planned his future home. His
first house wasa double log cabin of two rooms, but these two rooms
had the capacity of accommodating a goodmany persons. This house was
for many years the travelers' home, and numbers of people today remember
the generous hos pitality extended by the worthy host and his faithful
wife.The first barn was erected the following fall.It and a corncrib,
erected at the same time, still stand as monuments to those early
days.Mr. Hamlin went to work in earnest, broke out a part of his new
farm, and proceeded to place it under cultivation. lie found a ready
market for most of his prod uce, especially corn, among the emigrants
who were journeying still further westward. During the years when
the tide was at its height, Mr. Hamlin remembers many times when forty
or fifty teams would camp in his grove onaccount of the high waters
of Troublesome Creek. Mr. Hamlin was elected the first county treasurer,
an office he held for eight years.During a part of that time he acted
as recorder.He was the first post master appointed at Hamlin's Grove
post. office, and held the position until the election of Abraham
Lincoln.He has always been an oldstyle Jacksonian Democrat, and was
appointed postmaster under General Taylor's administration. For two
years he was county supervisor. Instead of Mr. Hamlin's seek ing the
office it sought him, and politics was in a healthier condition than
it is today. During the eight years he acted as treasurer of the county
he kept his money in the house. On being asked by the writer if he
were not afraid of having the money stolen, he replied that it was
quite safepeople in those days being generally honest.Mr. Hamlin built
the first schoolhouse in the county, and he and one of his neighbors
furnished eleven children, and paid the teacher. Judge D. M. Harris
held the first court of the county in this same schoolhouse. Mr. Hamlin
was fond of chasing deer and wolf, and always kept a good number of
hounds for the purpose, and to this day he keeps three fine hounds
for chasing wolves. From the modest beginning of 160 acres Mr. Hamlin
has increased his landed estate to 1,400 acres, besides having given
to each of his children from ninety to 100 acres.This in itself is
a record of in dustry, thrift and wisemanagement. Mr. Hamlin has been
actively engaged in feeding livestock, and has annually shipped from
one to four carloads of livestock to the Chicago markets.Although
in his seventyfifth year he is sound in mind and body, and attends
to all his business with the same energy and push as in younger days.
He and his estima ble wife have journeyed many years together, and
peace and happiness have been their re ward. They have sixtythree
grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 709.
HENRY W. HANNA, attorney at law, Audubon, Iowa, was born in Licking
County, Ohio, in the village of Utica, December 25, 1847. His father,
Andrew G. Hanna, was one of the early settlers in Ohio. He was married
to Miss Lavina Sharp, of Wayne County, Ohio, and they settled in Licking
County, afterward removing to Rich land County; from this county they
came to Johnson County, Iowa, in 1854, and stopped at what was then
known as Clark's Mills, now Coralville. Here they lived until Sep
tember, 1855, and then moved to Iowa City, where they resided until
March, 1856, when they removed to Benton County, Iowa.Here they went
on a new place, to which they added many improvements. In 1875 they
removedtoMarengo, where Andrew G. Hanna died, December 30, 1880. His
wife, who still survives him, makes her home with her daughter in
Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She is the mother of six children, four sons and
two daughters. Henry W. Hanna is the third child. His early education
was received in the district schools of Benton County.In 1866 he entered
the State University at Iowa City, and graduated from the academical
de partment in 1872.He spent the winters of 1867, 1868 and 1869 in
teaching school. In September, 1872, Mr. Hanna went to Cass County,
Iowa, and began the study of law in Atlantic with his brother, J.
T. Hanna. He was admitted to the bar in March, 1874. In September
of the same year he moved to Ex ira, Audubon County, and commenced
the practice of law. In October, 1879, he went to Audubon and opened
an office alone, and has since been engaged in an active practice
of his profession. Mr. Hanna was married September, 1883, to Miss
Jennie Brayton, of Audubon, a native of Wisconsin.They have two children
Lena L. and Ruby M. Mr. Hanna was elected county attorney in the fall
of 1886, and reelected in 1888. He owns a good farm, which he rents.
He was initiated in Exodus Lodge, No. 342, A. F. & A. M., at Exira,
and became a member of Veritas Lodge at Audubon in 1882. He is also
a member of Godfrey Comnmandery, No. 44, being one of its charter
members, and re corder since its organization.During his residence
in Cass County he was appointed deputy sheriff, and served under E.
E. Her bert and J. S. Presnall.He has served as secretary of the Blue
Lodge for two years. He has a select law library which cost $1,500,
and is one of the best in the western part of the State, and a complete
set of abstracts of all lands in Audubon County.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 717.
HANS PETER HANSEN, a prosperous and intelligent Dane, residing in
Gray, Iowa, was born in the city of Copen hagen, Denmark, November
25, 1857. He is the oldest of four children, two sons and two daughters,
his parents being Christien and Anna C. (Anderson) Hansen, who are
still living in Copenhagen, the father being a mechanic by trade.
Hans Peter Hansen re ceived a good commonschool education in his native
country, and then went to learn the trade of an engineer, serving
two years. Desirous of seeing the new world he set sail in 1881, and
after a voyage of thirtytwo days he landed in the city of New York.
He continued his journey to Minnesota, stopping at Albert Lea five
months. On coming to Gray he entered the employ of Mr. George Gray
as engineer in his elevator, a position he still holds.In February,
1888, Mr. Han sen made a visit to his native land, remain ing among
the scenes of his childhood four months.Returning to Gray he resumed
his position as stationary engineer. In June, 1889, he was married
to Miss Martha Jacobs, a native of Denmark, who came to America in
1888. He is now living in Gray in a comfortable home, which he owns.He
also owns other property in the village, which he rents. Mr. Hansen
is an industrious citizen, and by perseverance and economy he has
ac cumulated some property. He began with out capital, except his
pluck and energy and determination to succeed, and we anticipate for
him a prosperous future.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 812.
GEORGE HARDENBROOK was born in Knox County, Ohio, December 4, 1842,
and is the son of Ambrose and Hannah (Axtell) Hardenbrook. The father
was a native of Pennsylvania, and the mother was of English descent,
and both died when our subject was an infant. Ludwig Harden brook,
the grandfather of George Harden brook, was one of the early settlers
of Man hattan Island; he was of Hollandish descent, and served in
the war of the Revolution. At the close of this war he was paid in
a land warrant, which he located in western Penn sylvania; he lived
upon this land for several years, and then removed to Jefferson County,
Ohio.He served in the war of 1812, and soon after moved to Knox County,
Ohio, re siding there until his death, which occurred at the age of
eightynine years. George Hardenbrook went to live with an aunt after
the death of his parents, and later made his home with a sister. At
the age of fifteen years he started out to support himself, hav ing
received acommonschool education. Afterward he attended three termsof
a graded school, at the same time working at the carpenter's trade.This
avocationhe followed until the breaking out of the late civil war,
when he enlisted in the Twentieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Company
G, being one of the first to respond to the call for men to go to
the defense of the nation's flag.He was sent into West Virginia under
General McClelland's command. While in the serv ice he was taken sick
with the measles and thrown into the hospital. He was dismissed before
he was cured, as the hospital was over crowded, and suffered a great
deal of expos ure, from which he was a long time in recovering.He
was ordered to Columbus, Ohio,and was there mustered out of the service.In
January, 1864, he enlisted as a mechanic in the quartermaster's department
in the Army of the Cumberland. After one month's service he was promoted
to the fore manship of this work. On his return to Monroe County,
Ohio, he accepted the posi tion of deputy sheriff, and held the place
for three months, when he went to Omaha, Ne braska, and thence to
Jasper County, Iowa, in which place he worked at the carpenter's trade
for two seasons. Mr. Hardenbrook was married to Miss Rebecca J. Bundy,
of Jasper County, who was a native of Highland County, Ohio, and a
daughter of Caleb and Sophrona Bundy. After his marriage Mr. Hardenbrook
embarked in the grocery busi ness at Prairie City, Jasper County,
Iowa, remaining there two years. He then removed to Kansas, thence
to Nodaway County, Mis souri, and thence to Mahaska County, Iowa,
in which county, at Leighton, he opened a drug store.In a short time
he removed this stock to Exira, Iowa, in September, 1872, being one
of the first druggists in the place. In 1876 he was appointed postmaster
under General Grant's administration, and held the position seven
years, at the end of which time he resigned.He carries a full line
of drugs and medicines and fancy goods. In 1880 he was elected a member
of the school board, and continued in this position until 1888, when
he resigned. He is a member of the O. P. Morton Post, No. 35, G. A.
R, and of the A. O. U. W., of which he was first Master.He is a charter
member of Ex odus Lodge, No. 342,A. F. & A. M., of the chapterand
commandery. Mr.and Mrs. Hardenbrook are the parents of five children
Burton, Blanche, Lena, Edith and Ross.Caleb Bundy, father of Mrs.
Harden brook, was one of those men whose life is a sweet memory to
his friends. He was born of Quaker parents, in Westmoreland County,
Virginia, and was of the Quaker faith until his marriage, at which
time he abandoned the society on account of having married out side
its membership.He was one of the northern abolitionists who assisted
the blacks in their flight to the north, and he lived to see that
horrible institution wiped from this nation. After his marriage he
joined the Methodist Episcopal church, and was ordained as a minister.
He preached in Illinois and Iowa, at the same time carrying on the
blacksmith's trade. He took an active interest in the politics of
the county, and was elected upon the Republican ticket to repre sent
the county in the XIII th Assembly, a position he filled with marked
ability. In 1872 Mr. Bandy removed to Audubon County, Iowa, making
his home with Mr. and Mrs. Hardenbrook at Exira, at which place he
held the position of postmaster until his death, which occurred in
March, 1876. lie was a man who commanded the respect of all parties,
and at his death was without an enemy. He devoted his leisure hours
to looking after the poor, and in performing many acts of charity.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 759.
SAMUEL HAYS was born in Westmore land County, Pennsylvania, November
28, 1844, and is the son of Fred and Mary (Robins) Hays, natives of
the State of Pennsylvania. When Samuel was eighteen months oldhis
parents removed to Rock Island County, Illinois. There he passed his
early youth, being reared to the occupation of a farmer. He obtained
his education in the district schools and the graded schools of Cordova.He
was entering his second term in the latter place when he enlisted
in the United States service in the Fifteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry,
Company D. After six months he was honorably discharged, and re turned
to Rock Island County, and remained there until 1867, engaged in farming
during the summer season and in teaching school in the winter. In
the fall of 1867 Mr. Hays came to Iowa, and for several years he was
occupied in teaching in the winter season, and working at the carpenter's
trade and at the shoemaker's trade during the rest of the year. For
three years after coming to the State he made his home in Henry County,
after which he removed to Marshall County, remaining there four years.
He was married September 6, 1872, to Miss Ellen L. Clark, daughter
of G. C. and Phoebe A. (Rodgers) Clark, who was born in Marshalltown,
Iowa, July 17, 1854. They are the parents of nine children Frew L.,MaudA.,
WillieA., Gabriel C., Samuel E., Miles F., James A., Mary M. and Alice
L., all at home. In 1875 Mr. Hays removed his family to Audubon County,
and settled on a farm of eighty acres in Greeley Township, which was
then wild prairie land.He has added eighty acres to his first purchase,
and has made many valua ble improvements,erecting a goodframe residence,
and barns for stock and grain. He affiliates with the Democratic party,
but votes for the man that he judges best qualified to fill the position.He
takes an active interest in the political affairs of the county, and
has filled most of the township offices. He is a member of the K.
of L.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 734.
ROBERT HENDERSON, a thrifty and prosperous agriculturist of Cameron
Township, was born in the State of Vermont, near St. Johnsbury, October
11, 1851.His father, William Henderson, a native of Scotland, came
to America in his youth.His grandfather, William Hender son, was also
a native of Scotland. The mother of Robert Henderson was Hannah Gray,
a daughter of William Gray, and a sister of George Gray, of Audubon
County. She died when Robert was eight years old. The father is still
living, at the age of seventy five years, on the old homestead where
our subject was born.Robert remained under the parental roof until
his twentieth year, receiving the advantage of a districtschool education,
and also a few terms at the Peacham Academy. After leaving school
the spirit of youth would no longer be re strained, and he journeyed
to the west, seek ing the best in store for him. His first sojourn
was in Stark County, Illinois, where he remained one year. He then
went to Adair County, Iowa, and thence to Audubon County, taking charge
ofGeorge Gray's ranch, which he opened up and managed for four years.
Within this period he was mar ried to Miss Ellen Evans, of Peacham,
Ver mont, a daughter ofCharlesEvans, Esq. After his marriage Mr. Henderson
purchased 160 acres of land which was new and unim proved. The courage
of the pioneer can scarcely be appreciated in this day, when there
is so little that is new; but Mr. Hen derson was equal to the occasion,
and began with a will to claim from Nature all that she would yield.He
broke out the farm, made many valuable improvements, and added to
it from time to time until he now owns 400 acres, all under a high
state of cultivation. He pays special attention to feeding hogs and
cattle, shipping several cars annually. He also has some very fine
horses for farm use.In 1888 he erected a large barn with sheds attached,
having a capacity for seventy five head of cattle and twentyfive head
of horses. The confidence reposed in Mr. Hen derson is attested in
the fact that for several years he has served as township trustee.
He began his career at the bottom round of the ladder, but by energy,
industry and untiring effort he has accumulated a good competence.
Mr. Henderson is of a genial, frank disposi tion, and during his residence
in the county has won a host of friends.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 820.
DANIEL W. HENDRICKS is a success ful farmer of Viola Township, Audu
bon County, who was born in Macoupin County,Illinois, December 5,
1834.His father, William W. Hendricks, a native of North Carolina,
removed with his parents to Kentucky when nine years of age.He was
there married to Miss Susanna Sears, a native of Kentucky, and a daughter
of Samuel Sears, of German descent. The grandfather of Dan iel W.
Hendricks was William Hendricks, of Hollandish and German extraction.
He was an early settler of New Jersey, and a soldier in the Revolutionary
war. Four of his broth ers also fought in the Revolution. Daniel W.
Hendricks is the seventh of a family of nine children, all of whom
lived to maturity Malinda C., Granville S., Melvina F., died in 1888;
Sarah C., died in 1887; John T., William W., Daniel W., Samuel M.
and Mar tin V. All were married and raised families, with the exception
of John T. The subject of this notice was nine years old when the
family started to Marion County, Iowa. The father died in Lee County
in 1843, while en route to Marion County.The winter was passed in
Jefferson County, and in the spring the journey was continued to Marion
County The family settled near Pella, and there Dan iel remained three
and a half years. He then removed to Polk County with his parents
and settled eight miles east of Des Moines, remaining there six years.
He then went to Decatur County, Iowa, with his parents, and there
made his home for seven years.At the end of that time he went to Jasper
County and settled near Prairie City, on a farm, where he lived fourteen
years.He sold out in the spring of 1880 and came to Audubon County,
locating on his present farm, on section 13 Viola Township. There
are 280 acres in the place, forty of which had been homesteaded and
improved by Albert Hocket.Mr. Hen dricks was united in marriage, in
1861, to Martha, oldest daughter of Henderson and Eliza (Hart) Taylor.
Mrs. Hendricks was born in Kentucky, and removed with her parents
to Decatur County, Iowa, when a child of twelve years.Five children
have been born of this marriage -- William H., Granville E., Eliza E.,
wife of C. A. Yaager; Charles B. and Susanna. Mr. Hendricks has served
as township trustee, and is also trustee of the Viola Cemetery. He
and his wife are members of the German Baptist church. In politics
he is a staunch Democrat.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 770.
FRANK M. HENSLEY, an enterprising farmer of Greeley Township, Audubon
County, is the seventh child of J. J. and Martha J. (Popejay) Hensley. He
was born in Polk County, August 31, 1858, and passed his early childhood
in his native place. When he was ten years of age his parents removed
to Jasper County, where they resided three years. In 1871 they came
to Audubon County and settled in Exira Township; there he was reared
to the occupation of a farmer, and attended the common schools.In
the year 1887 he took a trip through the west to California, and remained
one year. He re turned to his old home in January, 1888, and entered
into the mercantile business, following the same for one year, but
finding indoor life did not agree with his health retired to his farm
in January, 1889. April 11, 1888, he was united in marriage to Ella,
daughter of Perry and Barbara Parrott; she was born in Dubuque County,
Iowa, April 19, 1866. Mr. and Mrs. Hensley are the parents of one
child John J., born February 25, 1889. In January, 1889, Mr. Hensley
moved to his present home, a farm of eighty acres, in section 19,
Greeley Township, which he has owned since 1882; the land was raw
prairie when it came into his possession, but has been converted
into one of the finest farms in that part of the county. He also owns
eighty acres in section 20, Greeley Township. He has a fine frame residence
on his home farm, and has made numerous other valuable improvements.
Mr. Hensley devotes himself to farming and stockraising exclusively;
he is one of the live, energetic farmers in the county, and enjoys
the esteem and respect of a wide circle of friends. Politically he is
a staunch supporter of the issues of the Democratic party.He has served
as township assessor.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 734.
JOHN J. HENSLEY, a prominent farmer and stockdealer in Exira Township, was born in Chillicothe, Ross County, Ohio, September 11, 1819. His father, Jacob Hensley, was a soldier in the war of 1812, and died when John J. was a small boy. His mother was a Miss Sarah Wilfong, of German ancestry, a daughter of John Wilfong, who served as a soldier
in the Revolutionary war; she also died when John J. was a child,
and he went to live with his uncle, Christopher Wilfong, with whom
he remained until his death; he was then thrown upon his own resources,
and began the struggle of life alone. During his residence with his
uncle he had attended school in the winter and worked on the farm
in the summer. In 1844 he was married to Miss Martha Popejay, of Fayette
County, Ohio, and after his marriage he settled on a farm in Fayette
County; this he carried on successfully for a number of years. In
1856 he removed to Franklin County, Iowa, and there began dealing
in livestock in a small way, his means being somewhat limited. After
a few years he removed from Franklin County to Polk County, and settled on a farm south of Des Moines; here he engaged in raising and shipping stock extensively until 1869, when he moved to Jasper County and
engaged in the same enterprise until 1871. He then sold out and moved
to Audubon County, purchasing a farm one mile south of Exira, on the
Nishnabotna River; this is one of the most desirable farms in this
section, being of a very fertile soil and under high cultivation;
there is a beautiful, natural grove north of the residence and barns,
adding much to the attractiveness of the place, and affording a most
excellent shelter from the piercing winds of winter. The farm is one of the oldest the neighborhood, and was improved by Jacob Andrews,
and at the time of purchase by Mr. Hensley contained 200 acres. Since
his residence on this farm Mr. Hensley has devoted the greater portion
of his time to buying, selling and shipping livestock, while his sons
have managed the agricultural department of farming. From long experience in the business Mr. Hensley has become a most reliable judge of cattle;
of late years he has also bought and sold hogs quite extensively,
shipping them to eastern markets. During their residence in Polk County
Mrs. Hensley was called from this life, in the year 1869; she was
a devoted wife and mother, and at her death left eight children -- Leroy M., William I., Morgan, Martha A., wife of Daniel B. Hayes (Mrs. Hayes
is now deceased); Fanny May (deceased), Frank M., John I. and Charles
F. Mr. Hensley was married to his second wife in Polk County; she
was Mrs. Maria Eckles, widow of Rev. William Eckles, and daughter
of Henry Reichert, of Indiana, a resident of Polk County, Iowa.Two
chil dren have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Hensley Martha A. and Agnes. Mr. Hensley has not only been prominent in business circles, but he has also taken a lively interest in the elevation of the morals of the community; he is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, with which he has long been identified contributing largely of his time and means for its support; he has served as trustee and steward of
the church. Politically he has long been identified with the Democratic party.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 743.
LEROY M. HENSLEY, the oldest child of J. J. and Martha (Popejay)
Hensley, was born in Fayette County, Ohio, December 28, 1845. He was reared in his native county until his tenth year, when his parents
removed to Iowa, and settled in the northern part of the State.In
the year 1870 they went to Audubon County, and settled on the farm
of J. J. Hensley.Leroy M. remained with his parents until 1872; Feb
mary 14 of that year he was married to Miss Elizabeth Pilmer, daughter
of Philip and Alice (Sherriff)Pilmer, who was born in England, of
Scotch ancestry, November 30, 1847; she came to America in 1850. They
are the parents of six children Philip (de ceased), Martha Alice (deceased),
Charles B., Walter A., Elmer L. (deceased), andJames L.Soon after
their marriage they removed to their new home, a tract of 120 acres
which Mr. Hensley had previously purchased. A frame building 14 x
16 feet was erected, in which they took up their abode before it was
completed. They were anxious to establish themselves, and unhesitatingly
faced all the hardships encountered by settlers in a new country. The success they have had is fully demonstrated by taking a look at their
finely improved farm.There is a fine twostory frame residence, and
also buildings for stock and grain. Mr. Hensley has been an active, enterprising citizen, always aiding and encour aging every enterprise tending to advance the interests of the community in which he lives.
Politically he is a staunch Democrat, and has represented his township
as clerk and as a member of the school board. Mrs. Hensley is a memberof
the Presbyterian church, while her husband was reared in the Meth
odist Episcopal church. The family are among the most worthy and respected
citizens of the county.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 778.
WILLIAM E. HENSLEY, farmer and stockraiser,of Greeley Township, was
born in Fayette County, Ohio, July 27, 1848. He is the son of J. J. and Martha J. (Popejay) Hensley, who removed to Iowa when William E. was eight years of age. They first located in the northern part
of the State, and after making several changes they settled in Audubon
County, in the fall of 1870. In the spring of 1871 William E. Hensley, in partnership with his brother, L. M. Hensley, purchased 160 acres
in Greeley Township. They continued to buy land until at one time they owned 680 acres in one body. They afterward sold forty acres, retaining just one section, which they divided equally in 1884. They were the
first settlers in this part of the county, and the land was wild and
unimproved.When Mr. Hensley came to the county he was unmarried, and
made his home with his brother. June 27, 1875, he was wedded to Miss
Laura Anderson, daughter of David L. and Mary L. Anderson; she was
born in Audubon, County, April 27, 1856, and died March3, 1885. Five
children were born of this marriage -- Clyde, Vernie, MaryE., Clarence Edward and Flora Ina. Mr. Hensley was again married February 20,
1887, to Miss Minnie Dettmann, who was born in Germany, and came to
America with her parents in 1881. This union has resulted in one child -- Hazel M. Mr. Hensley makes a specialty of stock raising, and also buys
and ships livestock extensively. He also owns a livery barn in Exira,
but has recently disposed of the stock. His farm is under good cultivation,
and is well improved in the way of buildings. Politically he is a
staunch Democrat. He has served two terms as county supervisor with
credit to himself and the satisfaction of his constituents. He has
also represented his township in most of the different offices. Mr. Hensley is a selfmade man, and has arrived at his present position
through his own efforts. He occupies an enviable place in the county,
socially and financially a just reward of in dustry and perseverance.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 777.
JOHN A. HICKS, an active farmer and stockraiser of Exira Township, was born in Canada West, February 11, 1843. He was reared on a farm,
but when he had reached his nineteenth year he was bound to learn
the blacksmith's trade, and served an apprenticeship of three years.
He is the son of James and Margaret (Connon) Hicks, the mother only
surviving. After he had finished his trade he worked as a journeyman
for seven years in the State of Wisconsin, having come to the United
States in his twenty second year. In June, 1871, he came to Audubon
County, stopping at Exira. There he had a shop for eight or nine years,
doing work for the country for miles around. He continued this occupation
industriously and with profit to himself. At the expiration of nine
years he bought a farm of 200 acres, west of Exira.He has placed most
of this under cultivation, and has a fine young grove of thirty acres.Hehas
erected a good, substantial, two-story frame house, which is nearly
surrounded by a natural grove, and other buildings necessary for the
protection of livestock.In 1874 Mr. Hicks was married to Mary B.,
the only daughter of Samuel and Gertrude Smith. Mrs. Hicks was born
in Ross County, Ohio, January 6, 1854, and when she was three years
of age her parents removed to Audubon County, Iowa. To Mr. and Mrs.
Hicks have been born five children -- James A., Samuel A., Ethel G., Clarence and John. Mr. Hicks began the struggle of life without a dollar, but by pluck, hard work and economy he has laid something by for a rainy day. His political sympathies are with the Republican
party. His brothers and sisters all reside in Canada.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 749.
JACOB H. HILL has been identified with the interests of Audubon County since the year 1872. Unlike many of the pioneers, he was born in the State of Iowa, Cedar County. His parents are John F. and Eliza (May) Hill, natives of the State of Pennsylvania. Jacob H. was two years
of age when his parents removed to Johnson County, Iowa, where they
remained until he was fifteen years old. On coming to the county the
family first settled in Exira Township, and later in Greeley Township,
while the parents now reside in Audubon Town ship. Mr. Hill was reared
to the life of a farmer, and obtained his education in the common
schools. In the year 1882 he bought an eighty-acre tract of wild land
in section 28, Greeley Township, which he has improved and placed
under good cultivation. He has a comfortable frame residence and the
necessary buildings for stock and grain. He has done much toward the
upbuilding of that part of the county, and well deserves the esteem
in which he is held. The marriage of Jacob H. Hill to Miss Evaline
Young occurred September 29, 1882. She is a daughter of Henry and Charlotte Young, and was born in Illinois in June, 1860. They are the parents
of one child -- Flossie. In political thought and action Mr. Hill is
Republican. By upright and honorable deal ings, by industry and perseverance,
he has won a reputation, and has acquired a property of which any
man might well be proud.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 781.
CHARLES HOFFMAN, an active and successful farmer of Viola Towship,
was born in Holstein, Germany, December 3, 1844. he is the son of
Charles and Celie Hoffman, who emigrated to the United States when
our subject was four years old. They landed at the city of New Orleans,
and cameup the river to Davenport, Iowa, where they settled. The father
was a fisherman by occupation. He died in the year 1880, and the mother died in the year 1878. In his childhood Charles spent little time in
school, as he was needed to assist his father. In later years he went
to work on a farm for a man named Bennett, on condition that he was
to go to school a portion of the time. This contract resulted in three
years' work and one week's schooling, a deprivation to which there
is none other equal. Charles returned to Davenport and remained there
a year, being unable to work. In August, 1862, at the age of eighteen
years, he enlisted in the Union army, in Company G, Twentieth Iowa
Volunteer Infantry, and was sent to St. Louis, Missouri, thence to
Arkansas, and thence to Vicksburg, where he took part in the siege.
In 1863 his regiment was sent to Port Hudson, and there did duty as
guards and in attending the sick for three months. He was then ordered
to New Orleans, thence to Mustang Island. After six months he was
sent to Texas, being stationed at Browns ville. His next order was
to go to Mobile Bay, and after some skirmishing there he was mustered
out, receiving his discharge at Clin ton, Iowa, in July, 1865. He
then returned to Davenport and there worked two years in a limekiln.
In the spring of 1871 he came to Audubon County and settled on his
present farm, which was then raw prairie. He first bought eighty acres,
and now owns 200 acres, well improved. He was married in 1866 to Miss Mary J. Baker, a daughter of Robert and Eliza (Owen) Baker, of Davenport,
Iowa. By this marriage seven children have been born -- Charles O., William
H., Christopher A., Robert L., James, Roy V. and Lillie May. By industry
and good management Mr. Hoffman has acquired a valuable property,
and his honorable dealing has won the confidence and respect of all who know him. Contributed by Linda Hoffman lindaleehoffman@ix.netcom.com.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 774.
JUDGE JAMES HOLLIDAY, of West Exira, one of the early settlers of
the county, was born near Wheeling, West Virginia, April 16, 1821. He is a son of' William Holliday, a native of Virginia; the Hollidays were among the first settlers of West Virginia, their ancestors leaving
New England, and settling in that State. The grandfather of James
Holliday was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, and endured all the
extreme hardships of that hostile period, having no shoes to wear
often during the cold seasons, and living for days and weeks together
on roast potatoes. His courage and faithfulness were rewarded by this
government, as he was receiving a pension at the time of his death. William Holliday's wife, the mother of James Holliday, was Mary Campbell, a native of Connecticut; she was the daughter of Richard Campbell, of the old straightjacket Presbyterian stock. When she was a child
her parents removed to Virginia. She was the mother of four children, three boys and one girl. William Holliday's first wife was a Miss Harvey, and three daughters were born by this marriage, all of whom lived to maturity. Judge James Holliday, the subject of this notice, was the oldest child of the second marriage. His brother, Richard C.,
was a prominent attorney of Moundsville, West Virginia, and his other
brother, William, was a merchant residing in the State of Illinois.James
Holliday was reared in Ohio County, West Virginia, until he was twelve
years of age; his father then removed to Marshall County, West Virginia,
settling on a farm near Moundsville. Here James attended school, and
afterward taught for two terms; he also engaged in teaching after
he came to the State of Iowa. In 1861 he was appointed postmaster
under Lincoln's administration, at Moundsville, West Virginia; he
held this office until the close of the war, when he resigned and
entered into other business; he had bought some coal land in Belmont
County, Ohio, which he afterward opened, and sold at a considerable
profit. In the month of July, 1866, he re moved to Henry County, Iowa,
settling on a farm nine miles northeast of Mount Pleasant; here he
remained two years, and then sold the place, removing to Polk County,
and settling on Mud Creek, ten miles east of Des Moines; here his
wife died; her maiden name was Mary Jane Whittingharn, and she was married in 1841, and left at her death five children George W., James
(deceased), Amanda, wife of John A. Jones; Mary E., the wife of George
Smith; Estelle, wife of Charles Smith.Mr. Holliday married his present
wife, Sarah Andrews, in 18; she was born in Oxford County, Maine,
and is a daughter of Isaac and Sally (Kimball) Andrews.In 1868 he
moved to Guthrie County, and after a residence of four years, he moved
to Audubon County, and settled on a farm two miles south of Exira;
here he remained ten years, and at the end of this time he was elected justice of the peace, filling this office six years. He was then appointed
coroner, and served two years. He owns a large two-story residence
in West Exira, and ninety acres of land, which he rents.In political
matters Mr. Holliday votes the Republican ticket; but often when running
for office, he receives as many Democratic votes as Republican votes.Mrs.
Holliday's first husband was Samuel Ayer; her parents are both deceased.
Mr. Holliday owns eight lots in Douglas, Wyoming Territory, which
is valuable property, as Douglas is the county seat of Converse
County.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 756.
JOHN D. HOLMES, physician and surgeon, Audubon, Iowa, is a native
of Ohio, born in Tuscarawas County, near Newcommerstown, July 1, 1849. He was the fifth of a family of eight children, seven of whom
were girls. His father was James Holmes, also a native of Ohio, born in Belmont County in 1818, a farmer by occupation. His mother was
Elizabeth Dillahay, a native of Maryland, who died in 1882; she and
her husband were among the pioneers of Ohio. The family moved by wagon
to Wayne County, Iowa, in 1858, where the parents passed the remainder
of their lives. The boyhood of the Doctor was passed in Wayne County,
attending the district school and working on the farm, where he lived
until he was seventeen years old, he then began teaching school in
Lucas County, Iowa.Afterward he entered Simpson College, pursuing
his studies three years. In 1870 he entered the office of Dr. C. W.
Davis, under whom he read medicine three years. He then entered the
Medical College of Ohio at Cincinnati, where he took a course of lectures.He
then came to Audubon County and commenced his practice. The following
winter he went to Keokuk, Iowa, and entered the College of Physicians
and Surgeons, from which he graduated in 1876. He returned to Indianola,
where he formed a copartnership with Dr. J. D. Mc Cleary, which continued
for one year. He then returned to Hamlin, Iowa, and resumed his practice
there. In the fall of 1878 he removed to the new town of Audubon,
where he has been actively engaged in his profession ever since, with
the exception of seven months spent in Little Rock, Arkansas. He is
a member of the Botna Valley Medical Society, of the State Medical
Society, and of the American Medical Society. He was elected mayor
of the town of Audubon, serving three years, and succeeding E. J.
Freeman. He was one of the electors from the Ninth Congressional District,
and cast the electoral vote for James G. Blame and John A. Logan.
He is a member of Veritas Lodge, No. 392, A. F. & A. M., of which
he is now Master. He is a member of Amity Chapter, No. 93, R. A. M.,
and of Godfrey Commandery, No. 44, K. T.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 711.
APOLLONIUS B. HOUSTON, a pioneer of Audubon County, Iowa, was born
in the State of South Carolina, February 16, 1823. At the age of nine
years he was taken to Tennessee, whither his parents had removed,andsettled
in Maury County. Oswald Houston, his father, was born in South Carolina,
in 1798. He engaged in the mercantile trade at Williamsport, Tennessee,
and on his removal to Atlanta, Georgia, he was occupied with the same
business.He died in Atlanta, Georgia, June 11, 1861. Oswald Houston's wife was Anna Louisa Shaw, a daughter of Anna Fardoo. She was born in 1803. They had born to them ten children, six of whom lived to maturity. Apollonius B. was the eldest child. He passed the greater part of his youth in Tennessee, and received his education in the subscription schools. He was a partner of his father in the mercantile business
in Atlanta, Georgia, and remained there until 1853, when he made a
tour of the State of Texas and the Pacific States, after which he
returned to Tennessee. In 1856 he removed to Audubon County, Iowa,
in wagons, covering the journey in seven weeks. He had started to
California, but was prevented by the government on account of the
depredations committed by the Indians. Mr. Houston settled near
Hamlin's Grove, and was one of the first settlers in Exira, building
the first dwelling house in the village. He also assisted in the erection
of the first school house in the place. In 1844 Mr. Houston was married
to Nancy Bridges, of Maury County, Tennessee, a daughter of James
C. Bridges, by whom ten children were born, all of whom have lived
to maturity -- Henry B., Udora I., now Mrs. W. F. Stotts; Louisa B.,
the wife of M. J. Ragan; W. W. Houston, O. J. Houston, Flora D., wife
of David B. Lyon; Mary L., wife of Thomas Bryant; Charles W. and Robert
L. Houston, and Lida A., wife of George Henshaw, and the young est
child. Mr. Houston has filled the offices of county clerk, county
judge, county treasurer, and many minor offices. For the last six
years he has served as justice of the peace. He has been a member
of the Masonic order for forty years. He has served as mayor of Exira
for two terms. During the past twelve years Mr. Houston has dealt
in real estate. He owns land in the States of Nebraska and Missouri.
He built the Houston House in Exira in 1871, and was proprietor of
the hotel until August, 1888. Mr. Houston's mother died November 21,
1888, at Atlanta, Georgia.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 721.
OSWALD J. HOUSTON was born in Waynesboro, Wayne County, Tennessee,
February 13, 1855. When he was three years old his parents removed
to Iowa, settling at Hamlin's Grove, being among the earliest settlers
in the county. He is the fourth of a family of ten children, and is
a son of A. B. and Nancy (Bridges) Houston, both natives of the State
of Georgia, who now reside in Exira, Audubon County, Iowa. O. J. grew
to manhood in Audubon County, and attended the schools of Exira. He
began his mercantile career at the age of eighteen, entering a drygoods
store in Atlantic, Iowa, and remaining there nearly five years. Having
returned to Exira, he purchased the drug stock of John Hunter, with
a view of study ing medicine; this plan was not carried out, but he
took up the study of pharmacy, and continued the drug trade until
1880, when he sold the business and went to Fort Collins, intending
to engage in business in that place. Not liking Colorado as well as
Iowa, he re turned to Audubon County, and formed a partnership with
M. N. Graves, of Atlantic, Iowa.In 1881 the firm built a business
house in Audubon, and put in a stock of drugs; this partnership continued
until 1885, when Mr. Houston bought the interest of his partner, and
has since controlled the business alone. Mr. Houston was married May
24, 1877, to Miss Mary Dissmore, of Oakfield; she is the second daughter
of Richard and Elizabeth Dissmore. Mr. and Mrs. Houston have one daughter -- Lulu May. Mr. Houston is a member of Exodus Lodge, No. 342, at Exira,
and of Amity Chapter, No. 93, and Godfrey Commandery, No. 44.In politics
he is conservative.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 803.
BENJAMIN F. HOWALD, one of the leading merchants of Audubon, was
born in Holmes County, Ohio, near Shanesville, August 30, 1850.He is the only son in a family of eight children, five of whom still
survive. His father was a shoemaker by trade; later Henry Howald became a farmer and contractor in Ohio, and died at the age of eighty years. The mother was Miss Magdalene Triver, a native of Germany, who died
when Benjamin was but eleven years old. Mr. Howald received a good
common-school education at the district school. He left home at the
age of fourteen years, and commenced clerking in a store at Orrville,
Ohio, after which he went to Cleveland, where he continued clerking
until he was twenty years of age; the firm with whom he was employed
did a large business, and with them he acquired a thorough knowledge
of business methods, laying the foundation of his future success.
In 1870, in company with his father, he came to Chicago, Illinois,
and thence made a trip through the south-western States, remaining
about two years in Texas, where he engaged in stockraising. He then
came to Atlantic, Iowa, where he engaged in the drug business with his brother-in-law, Dr. A. S. Moncrief; he remained here some time, and from Atlantic he came to Audubon where he embarked in the dry goods
business on a small scale; this was in November, 1878. He carries a
general stock of merchandise, including clothing and gents' furnishing
goods; both departments are under Mr. Howald's control. In 1879 he
was united in marriage to Miss Eleanor Disbrow, of Atlantic, Iowa,
a daughter of Perry Disbrow, now a resident of Lewis, Iowa. Mr. and
Mrs. Howald have one son George H. Howald. Mr. Howald is a member
of Veritas Lodge, No. 392, A. F. & A. M.; and of Godfrey Commandery, and is also a member of the Knights of Pythias, No. 163. Mr. Howald
has in the course of erection a fine brick business block, 50x95 feet,
two stories in height, with a basement. There are no partitions on
the first floor, the ceiling being supported by iron columns, thus
leaving the space in one commodious room. The second floor will be
fitted up in suites of rooms and offices which will admit of very
handsome furnishings, as the building will be finished in good style;
it will be substantial throughout, and reflects much credit upon the
thrifty young merchant of Audubon. He began his career in a modest
way, and the proportions it has assumed is indexed by the large building
which is to accommodate the growing trade. Audubon has many fine buildings,
and Mr. Howald has given cause for increased pride in this direction.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 750.
FRANK P. HUFFMAN has been identified with the history of Audubon
County since 1880. He was born in Clinton County, Ohio, near Wilmington,
July 12, 1853, and is the youngest of eight children, four boys and
four girls, all of whom are living. His father, William Huffman, was
born in the State of Virginia, and is a son of Caleb Huffman. The
mother of Frank P. was Elizabeth (Lucas) Huffman, a native of Ohio. Her
parents were Caleb and Mary E. (Price) Lucas, who removed from Virginia
to Ohio at an early day. William Huffman was a blacksmith by trade,
and in later years turned his attention to agriculture. He removedfrom
his native State to Clinton County, Ohio, where he married and settled
permanently; his death took place in April, 1862.His wife also died
on the old homestead in August, 1875. Frank P. Huffman passed his
youth and schooldays in his native county. When he became of age
he was married, in 1874, to Ella B. Lemar, a daughter of Charles and
Adaline (Lemar) Lemar, of Clinton County, Ohio, and settled on the
old homestead, which he farmed until 1880. He then removed his family
to Audubon County, Iowa, locating upon his present farm; it consists
of eighty acres, which was wild prairie land, and unimproved. Mr.
Huffman has spent much time and labor in developing this place, and
has been well rewarded, as everything is in good shape. Four children
have been born to Mr. Huffman and wife Minnie, Joseph M., Zelta V.
and James Garfield. The mother passed from this life to her eternal
rest in October, 1884. Mr.Huffman has represented his township as trustee,
and is the present incumbent of the office. He takes an active interest
in the welfare of the Democratic party, and often acts as delegate
to judicial and county conventions.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 810.
JOHN J. HUTCHINSON, a farmer and stockraiser of Douglas Township,
was born in Clinton County, Ohio, near the town of Harveysburg, October
3, 1836. He is a son of Benjamin and Frances (Rankin) Hutchinson,
the father being a native of Ireland, and the mother of Virginia.
Benjamin Hutchinson emigrated from the Emerald Isle at the early age
of sixteen years, his father being a sailor. He married and settled
in Clinton County, Ohio, where he died in 1862. His wife died in 1877;
she was the mother of six children, of whom John J. was the fourth. He
was reared to farm life in his native county, receiving the advantage
of a common-school education. He was married to Eliza A. Mendenhall,
the fourth child of Nathan and Mary (Beech) Mendenhall. Mrs. Hutchinson's
grandfather was also a Nathan Mendenhall, who was a native of North
Carolina. Her grandfather on her mother's side was Benjamin Beech,
a native of Connecticut; the Beeches were of Scotch ancestry, and
early settlers of Connecticut. After his marriage, John J. Hutchinson settled on a farm in Clinton County, Ohio, and resided there until
his removal to Randolph County, Indiana; there he spent three years,
and then emigrated to Guthrie County, Iowa.Heafterward re moved to
Dallas County, Iowa, and remained there eight years. At the expiration
of that time, in 1877, he came to Audubon County, and settled on his
present farm. He has 120 acres of choice land, which he has brought
to a high state of cultivation; he has a good residence, attractively
situated upon an ele vated plain, affording a fine view of the sur
rounding country. Mr.Hutchinson has carried ongeneral farming, his
livestock being of especially good grades. He and his wife have no
children. Politically he is an ardent Republican, often acting as
a delegate to the county conventions. He took a part in the famous
Morgan's raid in Ohio. He began life without means, but by industry
and wise management he has accumulated a considerable property. Mr.
Hutchinson en joys the esteem of his neighbors, and is counted one
of the reliable citizens of Douglas Township.
From: 1889 Biographical History of Shelby and Audubon counties, Iowa, pg. 808.
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