In writing the biographies of the representative men of Scott County and the pioneer settlers who have made this one of the leading agricultural Counties of the State, it may be properly said there is none who has been more interested in its development and progress than the gentleman whose name heads this sketch. lle has spent the greater part of his life in the County of his early adoption and has witnessed all the important changes which have taken place since his childhood. Mr. Stafford first saw the light of day in Greene County, Indiana, October 22, 1837. His parents were John and Nancy (Dixon) Stafford. They came to Scott County in 1813, when Joseph was but six years of age, and he grew up in Le Claire Township.
John Stafford, the father of our subject, came to Iowa a poor man, When he crossed Rock river he had just fifty cents. When he settled on his claim in Le Claire he built a shanty out of bridge plank which he hauled from the river. He lived in this house one year, and then he erected a small brick house which is still standing and is one of the landmarks of early days. He lived there until about 1880, when he moved to Kansas and made his home with his sons until his death. Joseph Stafford was united in marriage to Miss Mary A. Paul, daughter of John and Margaret Paul, in 1860. Of this union three children have been born. Mary E. married Charles Sorrowfree and resides in Le Claire Township, William J. married Miss Rose Erwin and resides at the old homestead, Henry L. married Miss Mary A. Turner of Clinton County. He resides just opposite his father.
Mr. Stafford has always been a hard-working man and has accumulated by his industry and economy two hundred and eighteen acres of very valuable land. In his declining years, surrounded by his children, he enjoys the fruits of his labors and the respect and esteem of his neighbors and friends. He has held Township offices, is a Democrat in politics and a Baptist in his church affiliations.
BIOGRAPHIES