John P. Brookshier is a native of the State of Kentucky, born Nov. 12, 1836. From Kentucky he went to Indiana, where he resided two years, then removed to Decatur, Ill. In 1861 he enlisted in Company E, Forty-first Illinois Infantry Volunteers, and served until April, 1863. He participated in many battles, and was wounded at Fort Donelson, and sent to the hospital at St. Louis, Mo. He was discharged at Benton Barrcks. Upon leaving the service he returned to Decatur, remained a short time, then went to Allamakee County, Ia., thence to St. Louis, Mo. He was married in that city Dec. 9, 1863, to Mary Andrews, who was born in England, June 16, 1836. They have three children - William W., born Sept. 7, 1864; Ida M., Jan. 1, 1868, and Mary J., Apr. 19, 1875. After his marriage Mr. Brookshier came to Clayton County, where their children were born, and settled on his present farm of 200 acres on section 26, Elk Township. He has his land under excellent improvement, and is one of the representative farmers and stock-raisers of Clayton County. He has served the people as School Director, Road Supervisor, and Constable. In religious fair he is a Methodist, and in politics a Republican. source: History of Clayton
County, Iowa, 1882, p. 759-60 |