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602 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.


CHAPTER XI.


Land grants in which Polk county was interested-Des Moines river improvement-Leonard Brown's recollection of early men and things.

The original purpose of the general government in its liberal and magnificent land grants for school purposes and purposes of internal improvement, was a wise and truly magnificent one. The people were thereby to be benefited, and that to a most deserving class of people; those who had braved the dangers and endured the hardships of frontier life, and by their sacrifices made the settlement of the Far West, not only possible but actual. Such was the purpose of the government, but instead of proving a blessing it has proved a curse to the people, and in the end none but powerful corporations have reaped any benefit. In tracing out the history of these land grants and the difficulties and misunderstandings growing out of them, in which the people of this section have performed a leading part, it is our, purpose to neither court the favor of the powerful nor appeal to the prejudices of the weak. Facts and those copied chiefly from official records and decisions will compose the material of this chapter, while our own words will only be used by way of amplification or explanation.

There have been altogether ten different land grants, which have been made in the State of Iowa. Some of these grants affect and interest the people of the whole State equally and the same, while other grants affected the settlers of Polk county peculiarly and had a special bearing upon the progress and development of the county.

First was the five hundred thousand-acre grant. This grant was made to Iowa in common with similar grants to other States, and by the provisions of the first State constitution was set aside as a perpetual fund for the support of schools throughout the State.

Second-The sixteenth section grant whereby the sixteenth section in every township in the State was set aside for school purposes.

Third--Mortgage school lands. These lands do not strictly belong to any particular grant, but became school lands by being bid off by the State.

Fourth-The university grant. This grant consisted of two townships of land for the use of the university in the Territory of Iowa.

Fifth-The saline lands. This grant consisted of forty-six thousand one hundred and one acres and fifty-three one hundredths acres, and the proceeds of the sale of the same were set apart in the first place for the founding of a State lunatic asylum, but afterward the fund was added to the university fund.

Sixth-The Des Moines river grant. By this grant the State came into possession of a strip of land five miles in width on each side of the Des Moines river, to be used in making the river navigable for steamboats.

Seventh-The Des Moines river school lands. This grant consisted of some twenty-eight thousand acres in Webster and Hamilton counties, the proceeds from the sale of which became a part of the permanent school fund.

Eighth-The swamp lands. By this grant the State came into the possession of all the swamp lands.

Ninth-The railroad grant. By this grant the State came into possession of a large quantity of lands which were donated to certain corporations in aid of several lines of railroads.

HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY. 603

Tenth-The agricultural college grant. By this grant each State in the Union received for the purpose of founding an agricultural college, a quantity of lands equal to thirty thousand acres for each senator and representative in Congress. Out of this fund was founded the college at Ames.

Having thus merely alluded to the different grants it is now our purpose to speak more fully of those grants in which Polk county has more particularly been interested, viz: Des Moines river grants and the swamp land grant.
At the time Iowa was a Territory, organized under the act of June 12, 1838. (5 Stat. 235.) On the eighth of August, 1846, Congress passed the act making the Des Moines river grant, the material parts of which are as follows "AN Act granting certain lands to the Territory of Iowa to aid in the improvement of the navigation of the Des Moines river in said Territory.

"Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled: That there be, and hereby is, granted to said Territory of Iowa, for the purpose of aiding said Territory to improve the navigation of the Des Moines river from its mouth to the Raccoon Fork (so-called) in said Territory, one equal moiety, in alternate sections of the public lands (remaining unsold, and not otherwise disposed of; encumbered or appropriated), in a strip five miles in width on each side of said river, to be selected within said Territory by an agent or agents to be appointed by the Governor thereof; subject to the approval of the Secretary of the treasury of the United States.

"SEC. 2. And be it further enacted, that the lands hereby granted shall not be conveyed or disposed of by said Territory, nor by any State to be formed out of the same, except as said improvements shall progress; that is, the said Territory or State may sell so much of said lands as shall produce the sum of thirty thousand dollars, and then the sales shall cease until the Governor of said Territory or State shall certify the fact to the President of the United States that one-half of said sum has been expended upon said improvements, when the said Territory or State may sell and convey a quantity of the residue of said lands sufficient to replace the amount expended; and thus the sale shall progress as the proceeds thereof shall be expended, and the fact of such expenditure
shall be certified as aforesaid.

"SEC. 4. And be it further enacted, That whenever the Territory of Iowa shall be admitted into the Union as a State, the lands hereby granted for the above purpose shall be and become the property of said State for the purpose contemplated in this act, and for no other, provided the Legislature of the State of Iowa shall accept the said grant for the said purpose." On the 17th of October, 1846, the Commissioner of the General Land Office requested the Governor of the Territory to appoint an agent to select the land under the river grant, at the same time intimating that the grant only extended from the Missouri line to the Raccoon Fork of the Des Moines river. On the 17th of December, a few days before the admission of the State, the territorial authorities designated the odd-numbered sections as the lands selected under the grant. The State accepted the grant in form by joint resolution of the General Assembly, approved January 9, 1847. On the 24th of February following

604 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.

the State created a "Board of Public Works," to whom were committed the work, construction and management of the river improvement and the care, control, sale, disposal and management of the lands granted the State by the act of 1846. This board was organized September 22, 1847, and on the 17th of February, 1848, the Commissioner of the General Land Office, in an official communication to the Secretary of the board, gave it as the opinion of his office that the grant extended throughout the whole length of the river within the limits of the State. On the 19th of June, 1848, without any notice of a revocation of this opinion, a proclamation was issued by the President, putting in market some of the lands above the Raccoon Fork, which would go to the State if the Commissioner was right in the construction he gave the grant. This led to a correspondence on the subject between the proper officers of the State and the United States, which resulted in the promulgation of an official opinion by the Secretary of the Treasury, bearing date March 2, 1849, to the effect that the grant extended from the Missouri line to the source of the river. In consequence of this opinion the Commissioner of the General Land Office, on the first of the following June, directed the Registers and Receivers of the local land offices to
withhold from sale all the odd-numbered sections within five miles on each side of the river above the Raccoon Fork.
Afterward, the State authorities called on the Commissioner of the General Land Office for a list of lands above the Raccoon Fork which would fall to the State under this ruling. The list was accordingly made out, and on the 14th of January, 1850, submitted to the Secretary of the Interior for approval-jurisdiction, of matters of that kind having been before that transferred by law from the Treasury to the Interior Department. On the 6th of April, the Secretary returned the list to the land office with a letter declining to recognize the grant as extending above the Raccoon Fork without the aid of an explanatory act of Congress, but advised that any immediate steps for bringing the lands into market be postponed in order that Congress might have an opportunity of acting on the matter if it saw fit. On the 29th of October, 1851, the Secretary of the Interior, after consultation with the President and his Cabinet, and pursuant to a decision there made, wrote the Commissioner of the General land Office as follows:

"SIR: I herewith return all the papers in the, Des Moines case, which were recalled from your office about the first of the present month. "I have reconsidered and carefully reviewed my decision of the 26th July last, and in doing so find that no decision which I can make will be final, as the question involved partakes more of a judicial than an executive character, which must ultimately be determined by the judicial tribunals of the country, and although my own opinion on the true construction of the grant is unchanged, yet in view of the great conflict of opinion among the executive officers of the government, and also in view of the opinions of several eminent jurists which have been presented to me in favor of the construction contended for by the State, I am willing to recognize the claim of the State, and to approve the selections without prejudice to the rights, if any there be, of other parties, thus leaving the question as to the proper construction of the statute entirely open to the action of the judiciary. You will please, therefore, as soon as may be practicable, submit for my approval such lists as may have been prepared, and proceed to report for like approval, lists of the alternate sections claimed by the State of Iowa above the

HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 605

Raccoon Fork, as far as the surveys have progressed or may hereafter be completed and returned."

The lists were made out accordingly. Until the 17th of December, 1853, the State itself, through its board of public works, carried on the work of improving the river, paying the expense from the proceeds of the sales of the lands included in the river grant. A land office had also been established for the sale of these lands. On that day the State entered into a contract with one Henry O'Reilly to complete the work. This contract O'Reilly transferred, with the consent of the State, to the Des Moines Navigation and Railroad Company, a New York corporation, and on the 9th of June, 1854, in consequence of this transfer, a new contract was entered into between the State and the corporation for the purpose of simplifying and more fully explaining the original contracts and agreements. By the new contract the State agreed to convey to the company " all of the lands donated to the State of Iowa for the improvement of the Des Moines river by act of Congress of August 6, 1846, which the said party of the second part" (the State) "had not sold up to the 23d day of December, 1853." This was the date at which it was supposed the sale of lands could be stopped at the State land office after the contract with O'Reilly. Prior to the contract with O'Reilley the State had, from time to time, disposed of lands belonging to this grant and had applied the proceeds to the improvement of the river, and prior to the making of the contract with the Des Moines Navigation Company, June 9, 1854, the State had sold about 327,000 acres of land, of which amount 58,830 acres were located above the Raccoon Fork.

Subsequent to June 9, 1854, the Des Moines Navigation Company carried on the work under their contract with the State. As the improvement progressed the State from time to time, by its authorized officers, issued to the company, in payment for said work, certificates for lands. These certificates were in the usual form of certificates issued for entries of public land. The first one,
dated May 14, 1855, certified 88,853.10 acres; the second, dated May 6, 1853, certified 116,636.54 acres; together, 205,489.64 acres, and all located above the Raccoon Fork, excepting about 50,000 acres.

At length a disagreement and misunderstanding arose between the State and the navigation company and the General Land Office ceased to certify lands under the act of August 8, 1846, and there being no other provision for paying for the improvement, for the purpose of final settlement with the River Navigation Company, the General Assembly, on March 22,1858, passed the following joint resolution:
" WHEREAS, the Des Moines Navigation & Railroad Company have heretofore claimed and do now claim to have entered into certain contracts with the State of Iowa, by its officers and agents, concerning the improvement of the Des Moines river in the State of Iowa, and, whereas, disagreements and misunderstandings have arisen and do now exist between the State of Iowa and said company, and it being conceded to be the interests of all parties concerned to have said matters and all matters and things between said company and the State of Iowa settled and adjusted; now, therefore, "Be it resolved by the General Assembly of the State of Iowa, That for the purpose of such settlement, and for that purpose only, the following propositions are made by the State to said company:
"That the said company shall execute to the State of Iowa full releases

606 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.

and discharges of all contracts and agreements and claims with or against the State, including water-rents, which may hereafter or do now exist, and all claims of all kinds against the State of Iowa and the lands connected with the Des Moines River improvement, excepting such as are hereby secured by the State to the said company, and also surrender to the State the dredge boat and its appurtenances, belonging to the said improvement; and the State of Iowa shall, by its proper officers, certify and convey to the said company all lands granted by act of Congress, approved August 8, 1846, to the then Territory of Iowa, to aid in the improvement of the Des Moines river of Iowa."

It was further agreed that said River Company convey to the State all materials of every kind and description prepared for or intended for the construction of locks and dams in the said improvement, and that the State should take the existing contracts but no other liabilities except constructing or repairing the works on certain improvements at Keosauqua, Bentonsport, Plymouth and Croton; it was also agreed that the River Company should be discharged from all claims, and was to pay to the State the sum of twenty thousand dollars. It was also provided that certain of the lands not then granted to the company for the improvement of the river be granted
to the Keokuk, Des Moines & Minnesota Railroad Company to aid in the construction of a railroad up and along the valley of the Des Moines river, provided, further, that Congress should permit such diversion of the lands.

This proposition on the part of the State was conditional upon the Naviation Company accepting it within sixty days from the passage of the joint resolution. The company accepted the proposition, paid the State $20,000 in cash, and conveyed to the State the old dredge-boat referred to in the resolution. On the 3d of May, 1858, the State issued to the company fourteen deeds or patents, conveying to the said company 256,703.64 acres of land, describing the same by section, township and range. May 18th, same year, the State executed to the company still another conveyance, intended to cover any tracts or parcels which might have been overlooked or omitted in the fourteen deeds previously executed. These fifteen deeds conveyed to the River Company 266,108 acres, of which about 53,367 were below the Raccoon Fork and the balance, 212,741 acres above the Raccoon Fork.

The General Assembly, on the 22d of March, 1858, donated to the Keokuk, Des Moines & Minnesota Railroad Company all the lands, stone, timber and other material turned over to the State by the Navigation Company, excepting the land belonging to said grant sold to said
Navigation Company, by virtue of a settlement of the old contract. In accepting this donation the Keokuk, Des Moines & Minnesota Railroad Company agreed 'to assume certain liabilities growing out of original contracts made by the Navigation Company and assumed by the State. Thus the matter stood, so far as the State and the Navigation Company and the Railroad Company were concerned, till 1861. Some progress was made in constructing the railroad, and the River Company was disposing of its lands. In the meantime private individuals and other corporations had acquired titles to certain lands along the river above the Raccoon Fork, and their titles conflicting with the titles of the River Company and the Railroad Company; the conflict resulted in litigations, and at the Decem-


HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 607

ber term, 1859, of the Supreme Court and during the month of April, 1860, in the case of the Dubuque & Pacific Railroad Company vs. Lichfield, 23 How., 66, it was decided that the river grant, as originally made, did not extend above the Raccoon Fork, and thereupon, on the 18th of May, 1860, the Commissioner of the General Land Office sent to the Registers and Receivers of the local land offices a notice to be promulgated, as follows:

" Notice is hereby given that the lands along the Des Moines river, in Iowa, and within the claimed limits of the Des Moines grant in that State, above the mouth of the Raccoon Forks of said river, which have been reserved from sale heretofore on account of the claim of the State thereto, will continue reserved for the time being from sale or from location by any species of scrip or warrants, notwithstanding the recent decision of the Supreme Court against the claim. "This action is deemed necessary to afford time for Congress to consider upon memorial or otherwise, the case of actual bona fide settlers holding under titles from the State, and to make
such provision, by confirmation or adjustment of the claims of such settlers, as may appear to be right and proper."

On the second of March, 1861 (12 Stat., 251), Congress passed the following joint resolution: "JOINT RESOLUTION to quiet title to lands in the State of Iowa. "Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress, assembled: That all the title which the United States still retain in the tracts of land along the Des Moines river, and above the mouth of the Raccoon Forks thereof in the State of Iowa, which have been certified to said State improperly by the Department of the Interior, as part of the grant by acts of Congress, approved August 8, 1846, and which is now held by bona fide purchasers under the State of Iowa, be and the same is hereby relinquished to the State of Iowa."

When this resolution of Congress was urged in the interest of the River Company in subsequent suits it was claimed by the attorneys, and held by the courts that titles to real estate could not pass by resolution, and that an act would he necessary to pass title.. Consequently, July 12,1862, the following act was passed.

"Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress, assembled: That the grant of lands to the Territory of Iowa, for the improvement of the Des Moines river, made by the act of August 8, 1846, is hereby extended so as to include the alternate sections (designated by odd numbers) lying within five miles of said river, between the Raccoon Forks and the northern boundary of said State; that such lands are to be held and applied in accordance with provisions of the original grant, except that the consent Of Congress is hereby given to the application of a portion thereof to aid in the construction of the Keokuk, Fort Des Moines & Minnesota railroad, in accordance with the provisions of the act of the General Assembly of the State of Iowa, approved March 22, 1858; and if any of said lands shall have been sold or otherwise disposed of by the United States before the passage of this act, excepting those released by the United States to the grantees of the State of Iowa, under the joint resolution of March 2, 1862, the Secretary of the Interior is hereby directed to set apart an equal amount of lands within said State to be certified in lieu thereof; provided, that if the said State shall have sold and conveyed any portion of the lands lying with-


608 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.

in the limits of this grant, the title of which has proved invalid, any lands, which shall be certified to said State in lieu thereof, by virtue of the provisions of this act, shall inure to and be held as a trust fund for the benefit of the person or persons respectively whose titles shall have failed as aforesaid."

After the passage of the joint resolution of March 2, 1861, the Commissioner of the General Land Office called on the Governor of the State for a list of the tracts of lands "held by bona fide purchasers of the State of Iowa," on that date. In response to this request, the Governor and Land Commissioner of the State, on the twentieth of November, 1862, furnished the list required, and, among others, included the tracts granted to the Navigation Company, on the settlement made with that company under the joint resolution of March 22,1858. This list was filed in the General Land Office December 1, 1,862.

Notwithstanding this additional legislation and frequent decisions by the higher courts, much of the land thus granted to the River Company was preempted by settlers, and quite a number of parcels were patented by them. These transactions have eventuated in interminable law suits, disputes and neighborhood disturbances, which at times have resembled riots. These disturbances have contributed to greatly retard the settlement of the country. While the best jurists hold that there is no longer any question in regard to the title of these lands being vested in the River Company, yet there seem to be some legal points in favor of the settlers and the moral grounds being generally considered to be that of the preemption, therefore many will still hold out and defy the River Company. The whole history of this river land controversy is a most deplorable one, and as many innocent persons have been made to suffer by the rulings of the court, they of course have the public sympathy on their side. It is one of those instances in which there seems to
be a conflict between legal and moral right.

THE SWAMP LAND GRANT.

The history of the swamp land grant is brief and can be quickly recounted; it nevertheless has an important bearing upon the history of Polk county. When that region of country lying in the central and northern portions of Iowa was surveyed it appeared that there were many sloughs or small swamps. In 1850 the Congress of the United States passed an act entitled "An act to enable the State of Arkansas and other States to reclaim the swamp lands in their limits."

By this act the general government donated to Arkansas all the swamplands in the State, the proceeds from the sale of the same to be applied to the draining and reclaiming of said lands. The last section of the act extends the provisions of the bill to any and all States in the Union having swamp lands within their limits.

By virtue of the provisions of this act the title of the swamp lands in Iowa became vested in the State. These lands were afterward donated by the State to the several counties in which they were located. It was the duty of the County Surveyors and other officials appointed by the county courts to select and survey all the swamp lands in the several counties and when these lands were certified to, the title, which had already passed from the general government to the State, was passed from the State to the county.

HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 609

The swamp lands of Polk county were selected and surveyed in 1854. As a result of this survey it appeared that the county had in the aggregate, nearly fifteen thousand acres, all of which became the property of the county in 1855. According to the provisions of the act granting these lands, it was necessary that the proceeds of their sale should be used in draining and reclaiming them. These lands had now become the property of the county, but the county could make but one disposition of them, and that was to reclaim them. Thus it was that shortly after the county received the title to the swamp lands, contracts began to be made with various parties in the
county whereby said parties were to receive certain parcels of swamp land for and in consideration of having drained a certain portion of them. This plan was continued for some time, when it was found that the lands were passing into the possession of private individuals who had given no consideration except, probably, plowing a furrow and calling it a ditch. Thus matters stood in March, 1858, when Congress passed another act permitting counties by a vote of the people to contribute their swamp lands in aid of railroads or the erection of seminary buildings.

About this time Polk county was authorized by a special act of the State Legislature to appropriate a certain portion of the swamp land fund for the purpose of completing the court-house which had already been begun.

In April, 1862, an act was passed directing the appraisement of all swamp lands, and authorizing the Board of Supervisors to sell them at either public or private sale, at not less than their appraised valuation, and in this way were the remainder of the lands disposed of. By this grant Polk county realized quite a large amount of revenue, and the swamp lands became the property of private individuals and a large proportion of them have become the most desirable and productive land in the county.

RECOLLECTIONS OF MEN AND THINGS.

Mr. Leonard Brown, who has lived in Polk county since 1853, and who bas thought and wrote about the county probably more than any other individual, kindly agreed when we began the preparation of this work to furnish us with some items of interest. What he has written would more properly belong to a former chapter, but as it was not written in time to be placed where it properly belonged, we insert it here. It is just as the author referred to hastily wrote it down, but the facts are of sufficient interest to make up for any apparent lack of unity and rhetorical finish: To bring up again the men of my acquaintance that have passed away to the higher life, or have
gone away from among us to other parts of our great and glorious country, and present a picture of them so that the reader may see them as they were or as they appeared to the writer, is a grateful task.

JOHN EVANS, who resided until recently on Walnut Creek. but who now lives near Guthrie, in Guthrie county, came to Fort Des Moines in 1841; and was employed by the Ewings in the Indian Agency here, and had been with them before in Indiana. He is a large man-strong and active. In religion a Universalist, as were a great many of the pioneers of Polk county. He possesses a strong, active mind, is an earnest political worker -a Republican. He brought up a large family of children, all of whom -girls and boys-have ever borne the highest and best of reputations in all respects. His son Tabor, who served a term in the army, has gained

610 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.

quite a reputation as an inventor, one of his useful inventions being an ingenious harrow for working amongst corn when small and keeping it clear of weeds. His daughters, many of them, gained good reputations as teachers in the public schools of Polk county. Mr. Evans has an inexhaustible fund of reminiscences of the early days of Iowa history to impart to the interested listener. He is a living book most interesting to read. I truly wish the author of Polk County History could run across him to get from him the interesting story of his pioneer life in Polk county.

BENJAMIN BRYANT, who was also an employee in the Indian Agency at Fort Des Moines as early as 1842, carne up here from Missouri, and was taken into employment in the Agency by Mr. Evan. Mr. Bryant was a big-hearted western man. He was small in stature, and weighed not
above 130 pounds. He married Elvira Birge June 11, 1846, the first marriage, I believe, in the county. This lady died of small-pox during the California emigration, and was buried in Des Moines about the year 1849 or '50. Mr. Bryant was for many years justice of the peace in Des Moines, and was once Recorder and Treasurer. He married a second wife in 1854, and died in 1862, leaving wife and three children in destitute circumstances. His house burnt down before his death and he had been unfortunate in business so that he was not able to rebuild it, though he began the erection of a fine brick residence that he was not able to complete. Mr. Bryant was a Universalist in religious belief.

HENRY BIROE or Burge, came to the county while the soldiers still were here-as early as 1844-45. He was a tall active man, fond of hunting, and like most of the early settlers liked his bottle too well. He brought up a large family of girls and boys. His son Jackson died in the army, a member of the Fifteenth Iowa, regiment. Gideon Birge, a benevolent-hearted young man, resides somewhere in the mountains of the West, and Benjamin, the eldest son of Henry Birge; -now resides in Des Moines. He is a cooper by trade, a religious and worthy man. The writer remembers Henry Birge as a whole-souled, hospitable old man; his wife, a more than commonly intelligent woman. I remember a book that these two old people both prized greatly was "Hosea Ballou on the Atonement."

LEWIS JONES came to Des Moines in a very early day. He was a good citizen and a faithful friend. He became an abolitionist by seeing Ezra Rathbun forbidden to offer his vote. Mr. Rathbun was of Portuguese descent, perhaps of Moorish blood. But the statute that would not allow any but "white" men to vote barred Ezra Rathbun from the polls, while a more intelligent man was not to be found perhaps in the county than was Ezra Rathbun. This Mr. Jones observed, and was converted from a Democrat to an abolitionist because Mr. Rathbun was not allowed in those earlier days to cast a vote. Mr. Jones acquired a comfortable fortune, and for several years before his death lived at ease, enjoying that leisure that he had earned by hard work in his youth. He brought up an intelligent and industrious family of boys and girls. Asbury C. Jones, one of Lewis Jones' sons, is a man of much promise, a lawyer of ability. Lewis Jones was in religion, I believe, too, a Universalist, though he had little to say on this subject. He was a moral, upright man, strictly honest, and had high regard for the Sabbath, and, I dare say, was never heard utter an oath.

The writer recalls a name that ought also to have mention in this work, JNo. F. HOWES, a young lawyer who lived in Fort Des Moines in 1854. He was more

HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 611

devoted to reading general literature than he was to the study of law. He was greatly interested in Abbott's Napoleon, published in Harper's Monthly about that time. Mr. Howes left Des Moines about the year 1855, for what borne the writer knoweth not. He was all the rage among Des Moines misses of that day-a great beau.

JOHN MCCLAIN deserves particular mention in the history of Polk county. There are few men of his type-alas! too few. Complete in integrity, he was a watchful guardian of the public interests. He was for many years a member of the Board of County Supervisors or
Commissioners. Saving of Public money-opposed to increasing the burdens of taxation-an earnest Democrat, - - - - according to the true meaning of the word. Never a word of evil attaches to the name of honest John McClain. He was among the early settlers of the county, and died some time during the year 1874. His sons seem to be of the same make-up of the father-men of sterling worth, of exalted character. A solid farmer, a granger of the grangers.

WALTER OYLER, another honest man-God's noblest workmanship -passed to his final rest-I would say about the year 1873. An early setter, a true and good man--in religion a Universalist. He was a brother-in-law of Judge W. H. McHenry. No stain attaches to the name of Walter Oyler, a hard-working farmer.

JOHN C. BENNETT, died at Polk City about the year 1864 or '65; one of the very early settlers of this county. His life history would make an interesting volume. He was general, at one time, of the Mormon Legion at Nauvoo; the chief next in dignity to Joseph Smith, and it is said he came within five votes of being elected over Brigham Young, president of the Mormon community. He apostasized about the time of the break-up at Nauvoo, and published a book against the Mormons. He practiced medicine at Des Moines and Polk City for many years; held a commission as major in the Union army of the Tenth Iowa infantry. He always greatly interested himself in agriculture; was an importer of fine poultry and fancy dogs, hogs, etc. He published a volume on chickens, and was the chief agitator in the great chicken rage about the year 1852,'53, and '54, when "Shanghai chickens were bound to shine." A man of mark; one of the strong men
who greatly helped on the real progress of the world in his day.

I distinctly recall to memory two other Polk county physicians who helped materially in building up this county in the early time: Drs. F. C. and HENRY GRIMMEL. They were brothers, grand old men, as I recall them to my recollection; ambitious to promote the public welfare. Their loss was greatly felt by the community when they passed away.

J. D. MCGLOTHLEN, a farmer in Allen township, was a large-hearted, public-spirited man, a true Democrat, a live Granger. Mr. McGlothlen was successful in business, and built up for himself a comfortable home. He took a deep interest in public affairs, and was always seen at the county conventions of his party.

Another of Allen township's devoted men was MR. A. KENWORTHY, a quiet, straight-forward, hospitable man. His home was one of peace, comfort, happiness. There never was a truer patriot. His sons were among the first to enlist to defend their country. Mr. Kenworthy died about the close of the war.

CHARLES KEENEY lived for many years in Allen township. The writer found with Mr. Keeney a home during the winter of 1860. His house was

612 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.

a true home. The light of that household is gone out, the family circle is broken up, and exists now only as a pleasant memory. Mr. Keeney had been a hard worker, ambitious to build up a solid, lasting, comfortable home; but he lost nearly all by some misadventure. Yet he succeeded in bringing up a large family of sons and daughters that inherit the activity and tireless energy of the father.

J. C. JEWETT was one of the first-comers to the county. He practiced law for many years in Des Moines; was major of the Fourth Iowa cavalry. He was a resident of Iowa City at the time of his death, which occurred about the year 1870; a man of positive character, fearless in his opinions. He was an avowed abolitionist when it took courage to stand against the odium of the name. In recalling these men to mind I see distinctly that society is upheld by the few devoted souls, posts, or (as they have been fitly denominated) pillars; remove those and the mass would be little better than a huge collection of little children, without power of self direction. Democracy is impotent without leaders! What was Athens without Percales? But without the enfranchised multitude to jealously watch, and when necessary, ostracize their leaders, and thus hold in check their ambition and inspire wholesome fear of the people, society would become only a slave pen.

ISHMAEL LEE dwelt in Beaver township. This man deserves a marked name in this history, for he was one of the best and truest of the men of Polk county. Grand old man-deeply interested in his country's affairs; he was a member of the Friends, society; the friend of men. It is the glory of America that she develops such complete men-unselfish, public-spirited, hospitable. Ishmael Lee was ripe in every respect that goes to make up a complete, unselfish man.

JOHN B. SAYLOR was the first settler in the grove, and the township that bears his name. He came in time to find employment in furnishing hay for the horses of the dragoons at the old Fort Des Moines. Now one might conjecture that this pioneer was a rough, unpolished man. Far from it--John Saylor would have been an ornament to any community of people anywhere in the United States. He was a Christian, gentlemanly man, a most earnest patriot, interested in every good thing, schools and churches receiving a share of his attention.

SOLOMON BALES, another old settler of Saylor township, a quiet and industrious citizen; he emigrated to Kansas about the time of the close of the war, and is still among the living, I trust. W. F. AYRES came to the county among the first emigrants. Ayres' Grove is named after him, where he located at an early day, but returned to Des Moines and made there his home for many years. Mr. Gyres was a very worthy man and his wife a most worthy woman. Unless a different impression is given by the careful historian, and the truth concerning the pioneers of our county emphasized, the world in the far future will look upon the pioneer settlers as almost wild men,
hairy visaged, with long uncombed hair, and fierce of aspect, little removed from the Indian in uncouthness. But the contrary is true of these men. Mr. Ayres was a fair specimen of the Western emigrant of that day-of the big-hearted old settler. A kindly man, gentle, no rough corners about him; the years to come can show but little, if any, advance in softness and gentleness of character
beyond the old pioneers; men acquainted with and akin to nature, and like nature in the West, attractive and genial.

HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY. 613
JAMES SHERMAN, one of nature's big-hearted noblemen-I see him as if but yesterday, behind the counter of the pioneer merchant's store. His sons may well remember and honor the kind old father, and the citizen gratefully remember the too generous friend.

DR. T. K. BROOKS, a fitting word for him I would gladly say-what a genial, good-natured, sunshiny man! It does seem strange that one like Dr. Brooks, who might be considered a fixed part and necessary portion of Des Moines-how strange to see him on the streets no more! Soon only will remain the blocks of buildings to keep up the identity of the city; the real old town will be gone from view; the men that built it up we shall see no more. Other men will walk the streets, but how sacred the duty of the new race of men to keep alive the recollections of those who have passed beyond our sight! In every good work for the popular welfare Dr. Brooks took a deep interest. A word expresses it all: He was foremost in every worthy enterprise.

The writer has only in view to present hasty recollections of old-time friends; he must name

CAPTAIN NASH. Here is a genuine man, independent, honest, out-spoken, transparent, blunt, earnest, patriotic, ironical when shams and shoddy came up to be remarked upon; no hypocrite was Capt. Nash. He was an old-fashioned Democrat, an old-fashioned man. How many
memories flit across my mind.

MR. FAGEN, MR. SHAW, and MR. WHEELER, of Walnut township, I recall to view. Where may we look for men more worthy of being held in kindly remembrance than these? Sturdy farmers, good citizens. Their children are all respected men and women. Like their fathers, they
reach after the high and noble, nobility of character.

DR. COURTNEY seems to call to me for a grateful word--my old-time friend. How changed is Des Moines since the Doctor left us in 1854 or '55. Could he come back and walk again the streets of Des Moines how strange would the city seem. . He would meet a few old friends. Let me name those who would most likely give him greeting: P. M. Casady, J. A. Nash, Hoyt Sherman, L. P. Sherman, Barlow Granger, D. O. Finch, W. W. Moore, Byron Rice, A. S. Morse, J. H. McClelland, Thos. H. Napier, Wm. H. McHenry, Wesley Redhead, Jonathan Lyon, W. W. Jones, W. W. Williamson, James Smith, John H. Given, F. R. West, H. L. Whitman, R. L. Tidrick, H. Y. Smith, Peter Newcomer, A. Harris, Thos. Mitchell, John Hays, E. Keeler, Wm. Buzick, John Bennett, Benj. Bennett, Wm. Hughes, James Campbell, Allen W. Hobson, J. C. Savery, Franklin Nagle, Taylor Pierce. Many, many faces he would not see. "Where," he would ask "are Van, Fredrick, Overman, Shaw, Shephard, Myers, J. C. Jones, Winters, B. F. Allen, Cooper, McKay, Marvin?", etc.. etc. The answer would be, "gone west."

DR. COURTNEY was well known to all the early inhabitants of the county. My recollection of him is of a clear-headed, intelligent, kind-hearted man.

FATHER GORDON, a venerable man, an earnest, devoted Christian, lived in the north part of the present site of Des Moines, then-1854-far in the country. He died in 1855 or '56. The writer was then a boy, but Father Gordon impressed his young mind with a peculiarly reverential respect for the good old man. He remembers the eloquence of the good old gentleman in prayer at the Methodist meetings-how full of the broad, Christian, benevolent spirit of "charity for all and malice toward none." He believed

614 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.

in the all-conquering power of love, and at a time when the "wrath of God" made up the bulk of the religious vocabulary. None of this "wrath" was found in the language, prayers or exhortations of Father Gordon.

WILLIAM DUANE WILSON, another venerable man whose name I mention with sincere respect. He died about the year 1876-had been a resident of Des Moines about twenty years. For many years editor of the Iowa Homestead, an agricultural journal. Father Wilson was the chief
promoter of the Grange organization in Iowa. The name of William Duane Wilson sent as endorser of the movement made the farmers take hold with confidence, and six thousand granges sprang up in Iowa in the space of a few months. This man's long life was devoted to the public good.

MARK MILLER preceded Mr. Wilson as editor of the Homestead. Mr. Miller was, too, an early settler-a gentlemanly man, devoted to his calling. He brought up a large family of children, who inherit their father's industry and good name. He died April, 1875.

SOLOMON STUTZMAN, an old resident of the county, who died about the year 1856 or 1857-was the first proprietor of the Des Moines House, on the West Side, corner of Walnut and First streets. He lived at Polk City in 1849-50, where he built a saw mill on Big Creek. Mr.
Stutzman was a man of irreproachable life and character-enterprising and industrious.

ALEXANDER BOWERS was for many years a big spoke in the wheel of Des Moines. Uncle Alex had control of the principal hall--he figured largely in political matters, was highly respected by the public. He was a safe man to entrust with any responsibility. He carefully did his duty, "hewing to the line." Careful and saving of his money, Mr. Bowers became well off, and when he died left his good wife comfortably provided for. I think Mr. Bowers had no children.

THE LAIRD BROTHERS-there were four of them in business in Des Moines at an early day, two of these men are dead-Madison R. and J. W.
MADISON R. LAIRD served in the army as a member of the Sixteenth Iowa infantry. Though holding the office of lieutenant, he took a musket and fought as a private at Shiloh. A comrade said, " Whenever M. R. Laird took aim and fired, down would come a plug hat"-many of the "Johnnies" wore plug hats.

JOHN W. LAIRD was a true and honorable man-upright and ready ever to help a friend-glad to accommodate whoever needed accommodation. He seemed to be the chief of the firm of the " Laird Brothers." He was never married, nor was his brother, Madison R. They were both
comparatively young-not above thirty-five-when they died.

STEWART GOODRELL, one of the Commissioners that located the capital at Des Moines, was a member of the Iowa Legislature at one time. A prominent man in politics and a citizen of prominence, he deserves a more extended notice than I have space to give.

ADJUTANT-GENERAL N. B. BAKER, the great-souled old patriot, once Governor of New Hampshire and afterward member of the Iowa Legislature, held for many years and during the entire war the high and responsible position of Adjutant-General of the State of Iowa. His heart responded to all the wants of the soldier, nor would he allow a wrong to the humblest private to go redressed when abused by his superior officers. He stood as tribune for the Iowa boys before sworn into the United States service. I have myself seen him interfere and prevent their being punished by the officers immediately over them while in barracks number nine. General Baker will

HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 617

have a proud monument erected to his memory by Iowa soldiers, and I trust the account of his life will be carefully written, remembering the great good General Baker has done his country.

HARRY STEVENSON, G. W. CLEVELAND and WILLIAM GALBRAITH, three old settlers, deserve mention equally with the others I have named, and there are many other names crowding on me for mention. But I cannot give all of them the attention they deserve: Father Lewis, Ezra
Rathbun, John Jack, Curtis Bates, Father Fox, Bryan Hawley and F. R. Prentice.

MR. LEWIS settled three miles northwest of Des Moines, on a farm, in a very early day. All remember him as a good and true man. EZRA RATHBURN, the pioneer Methodist preacher, the first to proclaim the gospel in the county, died quite recently, respected and loved by all who knew him.

JOHN JACK was a great worker in city politics. He had lived many years in the county when he died.

CURTIS BATES, one of the first lawyers to come to Des Moines, and one of the first men in the scale of manhood, was candidate for Governor of Iowa on the Democratic ticket in 1854 and was beaten by Mr. Grimes. Mr. Fox, a true and upright man, died in 1875, I think.

RYAN HAWLEY resided near Rising Sun. He is well deserving of honorable mention-a true and devoted citizen-and MR. PRENTICE, 25 years, a resident of the county, maintained a high place in the esteem of the people of Polk county.

As late as 1853 Des Moines was a small village of not more than five hundred inhabitants. Second street, from Court Avenue south, contained all the business houses. At the terminus of this street, south, bordering on 'Coon river, on the east side of the street, Mr. Good had a little drug store in a rough shanty. Next to his, on the east, was a small two-story frame, yet standing, in which a store had been kept, but occupied in 1853 as the printing office of the Iowa Star newspaper. On the "point" was a doggery, kept by Burt Campbell. Mr. Wm. Cruz had a small blacksmith shop between this doggery and the printing office. But west as far as to what is now
Seventh street, extended 'Coon Row, block houses or cabins for soldiers' quarters, neat double log cabins with a court between. After the evacuation of the fort by the soldiers those cabins were occupied as homes for the pioneer settlers of Fort Des Moines. These houses stood in the shape of a V along the Des Moines and 'Coon rivers to the "point"-or junction of those streams. It has
been but a short time since the last one was torn down. Between Market street and Court Avenue on Second, were located the principal stores. On the east Side of the street, next to Market, was Mr. Overman's store, then the store of W. W. Moore, then the post-office and book store of Wesley Redhead. Mr. R. kept a few school books and a small assortment of literary works, in the same room with the post office, a small room, about fifteen by twenty feet in size. A little room adjoining, about as large, he occupied as his
residence. A little further north Mr. B. F. Allen sold goods in a small frame building, one story high. Next, R. W. Sypher had his store. On the east side of this street Mr. Kavenough kept a bakery, and there was a little toy store also; this the writer remembers.
On the west side of Second street, opposite Mr. Allen's store, James Campbell sold dry goods and groceries. Mr. Granvil Holland also had a store on this side of the street. Barlow Granger had his law office over one

618 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.

of the stores, and Madison Young held his justice's court also over one of the store rooms in second street. In this court the writer first remembers seeing T. E. Brown, who appeared in a suit instituted by himself against the Stage Company in the spring of 1854.

This, then, is a picture of Des Moines in October, 1853: A small row of frame, one-story buildings along Second street. Soldier cabins and a few little frame and log dwellings scattered over the bottom; under the hills towards the north and west, cornfields. Judge McKay lived away back from town in a field. His house stood on the same spot at the end of Eighth street, which is now occupied by the beautiful home of Mr. Getchell. Next to Mr. W. W. Moore's, and near the Presbyterian church, not far off and surrounded by a cornfield,
was the modest home of Dr. Grimmel. East of this, at the terminus of Fifth street north, Rev. J. A. Nash had a nursery of fruit trees and a little cultivated field, with a rude shed in one corner for an ice house. This was out of town. A handsome row of large maples along by the residence of Isaac Cooper were planted in front of this orchard, or plat of ground, by Mr. Nash. They are the largest maple shade trees growing in Des Moines. Mr. Nash lived out, retired from the business part of town, in a cabin, just across the alley, west of where is now Exchange Block. Dr. Shaw Lived in a cabin out of town, no farther back than between Sixth and Seventh streets. The court-house stood out of town-south of the public square-an open spot of ground, in which the Sac and Fox Indians performed a war dance in the summer of 1854.

On the west side of the square were a few frame shanties-the best one was occupied by Mr. G. Holland as a residence. In a little house, just where Judge Gray built his brick residence, resided Mr. Davis. Here, in the winter of 1853-54, was brought home his son-shot through the head, an accident. He killed himself while out hunting. He was a boy about fourteen
years old. The furthest house west in the town was a cabin on the present site of the Third Ward school-house. A cornfield was to the west of this, and a house up a lane toward the west, in the midst of the field, away out of town, to be sure, far off in the country it appeared to the writer-then a boy. Now the place of the cornfield is in almost the geographical center of Des
Moines.

On the East Side Mr. Scott had a farm. A grave-yard was on the hill, about the place occupied now by the Capital City Hotel. Here in the summer of 1854 the graves were dug open and the remains of the dead removed. The writer passed by while the dead were being dug up. One coffin was above ground. Hundreds of people came to see it. It was open. It was the coffin of a Frenchman who had died twelve years before. His body was petrified. His face was perfect-eyes closed-along mustache on his upper lip, all perfect. I tapped on his face with my finger. It sounded like striking on a gourd. It appeared to be a shell. It was hard as stone. East Des Moines north of Walnut street was thick woods. Mr. Zegler had a pottery about the east end of the Valley Railroad bridge, and it may be he had a little residence-a cabin-also there. Shepard's mill was also built and running-the same that was burnt down a year or two ago. Scott had a double log cabin southwest of Capitol Hill. But the "bottom," southwest of the capitol, was fenced-a cornfield in 1853. But what most interested the writer in Des Moines at that time was the

HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 619

school--Des Moines Academy. Rev. J. A. Nash was principal, and Mrs. Nash his assistant. Twenty-six years have passed, but the faces of the scholars of that school seem before me now-the girls bright and beautiful -the boys beaming with hope and joy. I will name a few of the pupils: Miss Laura Lyon, Miss Emma Taylor-these two were the soul of the school, so ambitious. There were many other bright girls-the Misses Shaw, the Misses Ayers, Miss Ashford, Miss Fagan, Miss Smith, Miss Sypher, Miss Holland. Of the boys I recall the names of "Guy" and Harry Ayers, George Sneer, George Grimmel, Jesse Fuller, Mr. Ramsay, Harry Lyon, Aquilla Huffman, the Thompson boys, Porter Webb, Charley Hepburn.

This was the first high school in Des Moines. Mrs. Bird and Mrs. Kearns had gone before as devoted teachers. Mrs. Bird yet was conducting her excellent school for girls and boys. There were no free schools then in Iowa.

The churches of Des Moines at that time were Presbyterian and Methodist, small buildings. The Presbyterian church was the better-a handsome frame building of 40x60, perhaps. It stood next door south of where Mills' block now is. It was was burnt down in 1868.

CHAPTER XII.

TOWNSHIPS, CITIES AND TOWNS. BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP.

Until comparatively modern times that portion of Polk county now known as Bloomfield township was a part of Des Moines township. At that time Des Moines township included within its boundaries nearly one quarter of the territory of the county and more than half the population. It comprised what now comprises Saylor, Valley, Webster, Walnut, Bloomfield and Des Moines
townships.

It was during the existence of the County Judge system, probably in the spring of 1856, when a number of citizens of the county lying southwest of the Des Moines river and south of Raccoon, petitioned for the formation of a new township. The Judge considering that the convenience of the voters of that region would be greatly benefited thereby, ordered that the new township should be organized at the following election. The name Bloomfield was designated as the name, and the following boundaries: "Beginning where the range line running south between ranges twenty-three and twenty-four crosses the Des Moines river; then up said river to the corner of sections thirteen, fourteen, eleven and twelve in township seventy-eight north, of range twenty-four west; thence west on the section line between sections eleven and fourteen, and still west until said line strikes 'Coon river; thence up said 'Coon river to the west line of Polk county; thence south to the southwest corner of said county; thence east to the southeast corner of township seventy-eight north, of range twenty-four west; thence north along the east line of said township until said line strikes the Des Moines river; hence up the middle of the main channel of the Des Moines river to the place of beginning."
Samuel Bell was appointed special constable, whose duty it was to post

620 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.

the notices of election and provide other things connected with the affairs of organization. The house of Samuel Bell was designated as the place for holding the first election. Bloomfield township comprises about the same amount and identical territory of which it was
composed when it was first organized. It is township seventy-eight, range twenty-four, and township seventy-eight, range twenty-five, south of the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers, except so much of township seventy-eight, range twenty-four as is comprised in the city limits of the city of Des Moines.

James Smith, the pioneer nurseryman of Iowa, pulled up stakes in Delaware township and removed to what is now Bloomfield township, which was then apart of Des Moines. Mr. Smith is represented as being a whole-souled and honorable man, whose word is as good as his bond. When he located at his new home he extended his business, and did probably more than any other one man in the State to practically establish the fact that Iowa soil and Iowa climate were favorable for fruit raising. It was through his influence that his neighbors first, and then the settlers throughout that whole region of country planted extensive orchards. It was owing to the numerous large orchards which Mr. Smith induced his neighbors to plant that the new township organized in 1856 was called Bloomfield.

This township is one of the largest in the county, and in point of population and wealth it ranks, if not among the first, at least above the average. There is probably not in any other part of the county such a wide extent of productive, well cultivated and unbroken country. It is considerably more than a congressional township in size and is unbroken by any streams or bluffs except along
its north and east boundary lines, where the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers wash its borders. Two small streams, which furnish water for stock and vary the scenery without injuring any farms, flow through the township. They are Yader Creek, emptying into the Des. Moines, and Four Mile Creek, flowing north and emptying into the Raccoon.

SEVASTOPOL.

This town was laid out by James Sherman in May, 1862. It is located on the northwest quarter of the northeast quarter of section fifteen, and a portion on section ten, all of township seventy-eight, range twenty-four. Although it may properly be considered as a part of Des Moines, since it is but one mile from the court-house and just across 'Coon river from the southern limits of the city, yet it is not, in fact, a part, but is apart and independent therefrom. It is situated in the midst of the coal mining region, and has steadily yet continually grown, until now it has a population of over five hundred souls.

BLOOMFIELD CHAPEL.

This is a frame church building which was erected during the years of 1869 and 1870, at a coat of about $3,000. The church belongs to the Methodist denomination, and at the time it was built there were but thirteen members, some of whom were as follows: E. Jones and wife, M. W. Miller and wife, William Campfield and wife, H. P. Moore and wife and J. Bailey and wife. This was the first church built in Bloomfield township. Present membership, thirty-five.

HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 621
ELM GROVE CHURCH

This is a Baptist organization and was first formed in April, 1871. The persons composing the first organization were U. McKay, M. A. McKay, Daniel Conklin, Nancy Conklin, J. T. Updike, Mrs. Updike, Lucy Updike, G. M. Dawd, J. V. Dawd, Christina Smith, Emily Smith, Jane Bentley, and J. H. Cannon. Uriah McKay and J. F. Childs have been pastors. The congregation now is without a church building, and meets at the Elm Grove school-house, on section 36, where there is also a Sunday-school every Sunday at 9: 30 A.M. There are regular preaching services every alternate Sabbath. The present membership numbers about forty.

ALLEN TOWNSHIP.

It has already been stated that Allen township was named in honor of Capt. Allen, who erected the first government building at Raccoon Fork, and had command of the garrison at Fort Des Moines during the time that that place was a military post.

Allen township was first organized in 1848, and comprised that part of congressional township 78, range 23, which lies south of the Des Moines river, and all of township 77, range 23, which is now in Warren county. In 1852 when the southern tier of townships was transferred to Warren county there became two Allen townships, township 77, range 23, Allen township in Warren county, and that part of township 78, range 23, which lies south of the Des Moines, Allen township in Polk county. The region of country included within the bounds of this township is exceedingly fertile and most favorably situated. Outside of the larger towns there is no other portion of territory of equal size in the county which sustains so large a population. It was in the bounds of this township that the Chief Keokuk resided for a time, and the large stretch of open prairie between North river and the Des Moines was known as Keokuk Prairie, and the large bend in the Des Moines river, within the interior of which Uncle John Church started a town of great pretensions, and which prospered till it was drowned out, was known as Keokuk's Bend.

John D. MCGlothlen and his brother came to this prairie in July, 1846, and although some temporary improvements had been made prior to that time, they may be regarded as the first settlers. J. D. McGlothlen was for some time a member of the Board of County Commissioners, and during the long time which he resided there, from 1846 till a few years ago when he died, he was one of the most enterprising and prosperous citizens of the county. His first claim was on section 27. Mr. McMahen came in 1846, and settled on section 28. James McRoberts settled on section 33 in the same year; Aaron Copic also took his first claim on section 33; also Owen Osborne. B. Edgerton settled on section 31; William Compton on section 27; he afterward removed to Madison county where he died about one year ago. The ague was very prevalent in this portion of the country at an early day, especially in that portion of the township bordering on the river. It was no unusual thing for whole families to be down sick at the same time.

Allen township is most favorably situated in every respect. In the first place it is half surrounded by the Des Moines river which affords the best water facilities, while it scarcely ever overflows it banks so as to interfere with farming operations. In the second place it is located just near enough

622 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY

to the great central markets of Des Moines for the ready marketing of all kinds of produce without suffering any of the inconveniences of being too near a great city. In the third place it has a railroad passing through the center, with depot, side track and all the facilities for shipping stock to the Chicago markets. This railroad has done much to assist in the development of the county, and in the building of a second road during the past year stock raisers and shippers have the advantage of the low rates which are alone brought about by competition. In the fourth place the township is most favorably situated with regard to the surface of the land, there be no bluffs, swamps or gorges occasioning much waste land. Owing to the desirability of the land there was a great competition for claims in early days, and here was the claim concerning which arose the Flemming and Perkins dispute. Flemming is said to have been the son of a minister, and of course had some support from among the members of the church of his faith, while Perkins had some friends who said that Flemming was in the wrong because he claimed more than three hundred and twenty acres. The particulars of this difficulty are fully narrated elsewhere.

AVON.

Avon station and the original town of Avon must not be confounded. The latter was first laid out in August, 1855, and is situated about a mile northwest of the station. It is located on the southeast quarter of section twenty-nine, township seventy-eight, range twenty-three, and was laid out by Charles Keeney. Prior to the building of the railroad the town of Avon was quite a trading point, and was in a very flourishing condition. The building of the railroad and the establishment of a station so near by, and yet far enough off to be another place, had the effect to injure, to some extent, the growth of the town. however, Avon to-day is a very beautiful country village, and has a future. In early days this town of Avon was the center of educational and religious influence for that whole section of country, and to a certain extent still remains so. The first school house in Allen township was built in Avon during the year 1856, or at least so the oldest settlers aver, although it would seem strange that no school-houses were built prior to that time; J. P. Deaton and S. G. Munn were the contractors, and the building cost four hundred and twenty-five dollars.

U. B. CHURCH.

This church was organized in 1856. Jacob Krysher, Elizabeth Krysher, Levi and Margaret Krysher, J. D. and Elizabeth Mills, David and Sophia Maubeck, John and Catharine Bender and Benjamin Maubeck and wife were the original members. A church edifice was erected in 1862 at a cost of twelve hundred dollars, which was dedicated the following year by Bishop Markwood. The membership at present numbers about thirty.

The first election in this township occurred April 5, 1853, at which time the following officers were elected:
Trustees-J. P. Deaton, John Watts, James S. Mills. Clerk-Henry O. McBroom. Assessor-Chas. B. Flemming. The first meetings of the board were held at the house of J. D. McGlothlen.

HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 623

The last real estate valuation returned amounted to the sum of one hundred and twenty-four thousand six hundred and thirty-eight dollars; that of personality was forty-two thousand five hundred and sixty. The present township officers are: Justice of the Peace-A. S. Rice. Trustees-A. Warnock, A. Perley, W. J. Baker. Clerk-J. R. Warnock. Assessor-F. D. Kenworthy.

CAMP TOWNSHIP,

When the county was first subdivided into election precincts the southeastern part of the county formed a precinct which was called Camp, and the place of voting was at the house of Thomas Mitchell. When the county was subdivided into civil townships the year following, it was ordered that Camp township consist of congressional township number seventy-eight, range twenty-two, number seventy-nine, range twenty-two, and so much of number seventy-seven, range twenty-two as lay northeast of the Des Moines river. The place designated for holding elections was at the house of Patrick Kelley. Camp township subsequently lost nearly half of its territory upon the organization of Beaver township, after which it was left with substantially the same territory as it now is composed of, viz: Township seventy-eight, range twenty-two, and that part of number seventy-seven, range twenty-two which lies north of the river.
The township was named after the creek, which rises in the northern part of the township, as originally constituted, and flows southward through nearly the entire extent of the township.

This is a densely settled township with a general distribution of timber and rolling prairie. Patrick Kelley, whose house was designated as the place for holding the first election after the organization of the township, came in 1848. The Garrets came in 1850, and there were so many of them that the region where they settled was called the Garret neighborhood, which name it still retains. Wm. Sweeney settled in the township in 1849 or 1850; and about the same time some families by the name of Plummer settled there. James Steward, George M. Steward and Elijah Canfeld were among the first, and came in 1846. In 1847 J. M. Montgomery, Rev. Mr. Russell, David Johnson, Mr. Woodward, Montgomery McCall, Abel Fouts, Joseph Langdon, L. M. Burke, Mr. Robinson and Miss Lavina Hendricks settled in this favored region. Mr. Fouts was one of the most influential citizens of the township during the early times; he was elected member of the Board of County Commissioners, and was likewise civil magistrate for the bailiwick of Camp. He officiated at the celebration of the first wedding in that neighborhood, the parties being Mr. Woodward and Miss Hendricks. The marriage ceremony was performed at the residence of Mr. James Stewart. During the year 1847 J. B. Hempstead, Creth Renfrow and a man by the name of Flemming, came to the township. James N. Stewart was elected to the office of justice of the peace in 1847 and continued to bold that office for a number of years.

It is said that in early days wolves and rattlesnakes were very numerous in this township, and it is related that one day when Mr. Canfield's children were on their way to school they were met by a huge timber wolf

624 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY

which had long been a terror to the community. The children made a hasty retreat and escaped, and a few days afterward Mr. Canfield succeeded in killing the noxious animal. The wolf was two and a half feet in height and of corresponding length and strength.

An important road passed through this part of the county during the first settlement of the country. It was called the Lower Des Moines trail, and led from Des Moines to Red Rock, the pioneer town, which for three years, from 1842 to 1845, was the extreme border town of civilization. As in other parts of the county, the ague was prevalent here when the county was yet new and the settlements were in
their infancy. Though the victims of this scourge, many of the first settlers continued their work of improvement, putting in some telling blows between shakes. Camp township is more than average in size, it containing some five sections more than a congressional township. It is also above the average in point of wealth and population. According to the last valuation of personal property, the following were returned:

PERSONALITY.

Horses . . . . . . . . . . . .

680

$31,880
Mules. . . . . . . . . . . . . 

76

4,600
Cattle. . . . . . . . . . . .

1,308

19,652
Sheep . . . . . . . . . . . .

226

339
Swine . . . . . . . . . . . .

2,185

6,817
Vehicles. . . . . . . . . . .

61

2,145
Merchandise. . . . . . . . .

435
Money and credits. . . . . .

43,272
Furniture . . . . . . . . . .

640
Other articles . . . . . . .

2,281
Total

4,536

$112,061

Camp township has had its share of towns, but owing to the peculiar location of all the railroads which have been built across that part of the county, the towns which have been laid out have not prospered.

LAFAYETTE.

This town was laid out by Charles Freel shortly after the first settlement of that part of the county. It was located on the north side of the Des Moines river, on sections 3 and 10, of township 77, range 22. It will be seen from this that it was near the south line of the county. It was a lively place in 1849 and 1850. Dr. Hull and numerous relatives arrived there at that time, and the town, for a time at least, was a place of great expectations. The approach of a steamboat on its way to Fort Des Moines was of no frequent occurrence, but when it did occur all Lafayette turned out to behold it. Lafayette is no more, but there are persona still living who well remember the place as it was in its years of prosperity and the sociability and hospitality of its people.

HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 625

ADELPHI.

This is another extinct town. It was laid out in May, 1856, by Valerius Young. It was located on section 30, township 78, range 22. The term extinct should possibly not be applied to Adelphi, as it still has a location and a name on modern maps. The better way of expressing it would be to say that it is afflicted with premature old age, and has not accomplished nearly all the career, which was marked out for it by its founders and builders.

SCHOOL-HOUSES AND CEMETERIES.

The Camp township cemetery is situated a little north of the center of the township, in the northwest part of section 15.

There are nine school-houses, -situated as follows: South part of section 5; north part of section 10; southwest corner of section 1; south part of section 17; north part of section 22, near Mud Creek; near the center of section 23; southwest of Adelphi in section 29; southwest corner of section 34, and in southwest corner of section 36. These school-houses are of the modern style of architecture, are in a good state of repair, and have the best of modern furniture. They are all located on county roads and are situated with a view to the convenience of the school children. Camp township is not very well supplied with church buildings, but this is no evidence that the
people do not attend church. Public religious services are occasionally held in the school-houses, while many of the citizens of Camp township attend church at the neighboring villages.

BEAVER TOWNSHIP.

Beaver township continued to be a part of Camp township for a number of years, and its early history is a part of that of Camp township. When Beaver township was first organized it consisted of just one congressional township, and, therefore, was six miles square, and contained just thirty-six sections of land. In June, 1878, a strip two miles wide was taken off from the west side of the township, which became a part of the new township of Clay, and thereby left Beaver but four miles wide, by six long, and containing but twenty-four sections. This is the size of the township now. The highest point of land in the county is in this township, and according too the railroad measurements it lies just half way between the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. The surface is rolling and well watered by Mud Creek and Camp Creek, both of which streams have their source in this locality.

626 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.

According to the assessor's return last spring (1880) there was at that time in the township the
following personality:

PERSONALITY,
 
Horses . . . . . . . . . . . .

412

$18,560
Mules. . . . . . . . . . . . . 

7616

905
Neat cattle

711

9,208
Fat cattle. . . . . . . . . . .

127

2,455
Sheep . . . . . . . . . . . .

55

82
Swine . . . . . . . . . . . .

1,880

4,955
Vehicles. . . . . . . . . . .

43

1,640
Money and credits. . . . . .

8,725
Furniture . . . . . . . . . .

710
Other matters . . . . . . .

779
Total

3,244

$48,040

The first settlement made within the bounds of this township was by Thomas Mitchell in April, 1844. His original claim comprehended parts of sections 22, 23, 24, 25, and 26. William Duncan settled on section 28 during the year 1847. George Barlow took a claim in 1846. The first marriage was that of Lewis Burke and Mrs. Maria Vice, on April 6, 1848. The ceremony was performed by Wm. A. Meacham, of Fort Des Moines.

In the month of September, 1847, was the first birth which occurred in the township; it was that of James Bark, son of John and Susan Burk.

The first death was that of a young man named Lathrop, who died in the spring of 1846. He was buried in the Spring Creek graveyard in Camp township.

The first regular practicing physician was Dr. J. E. Whartrnan, who came from Cedar county in 1858. He now resides in Colorado.

The first preaching in Beaver township, and probably the first in Polk county, outside Moines, was at the residence of Thomas Mitchell, during the summer of 1844. The preacher was a traveling Methodist minister by the name of Pardo.

The first school-house erected within the bounds of Beaver township was built on section twenty-five. It was a log building, and was erected by Mr. Mitchell, without the assistance of any one else. Not only was the first school-house a private enterprise, but also was the first school, which was taught by Miss Lucia, now Mrs. William Hibbs, who was employed and paid by Mr. Mitchell; the compensation was two dollars per week.

This township is peculiarly well situated as regards the railroads thus far built. It is traversed by two railroads, the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific and the Keokuk & Des Moines. Nobleton is the station on the latter, and Mitchelville on the former thoroughfare. While these roads were under separate management the producers and shippers had the advantage of competing lines. These roads are now under one management.

HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 627

MITCHELLVILLE.

In July, 1856, Thomas Mitchell, Milton Ferguson, and Wilson Jones, laid out a town on section two, township seventy-nine, range twenty-two, and called it Mitchellville. In May, 1867, the new town of Mitchellville was laid out by Thomas Mitchell, on the northwest quarter of section twelve. This town was made a station on the line of the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific railroad. Its growth has been steady and its career has been marked by a gradual and healthy prosperity, until the present time, when it has become something more than simply a country trading point. Business houses representing every branch of trade have been established and are in a healthy condition. The following houses are the more important ones:

Valentine & Sherwood, general merchandise.
George D. Moore, dry goods.
Isaac Henshie, dry goods and drugs.
S. S. Moore & Son, dry goods and groceries.
J. H. Jones, clothing.
G. D. Barkalow, Flower & Hecox, and Mrs. Southerland, groceries.
D. H. Reichard, drugs and books.
E. B. Hagaman and L. W. Cannon, hardware and agricultural implements.
M. T. Russell, and McCrary & Heald, grain dealers. Each firm has an elevator for the purpose of handling grain.
Kimball & Mitchell, lumber.
James Andrews, flouring mill.
Shantz & Warner, flax mill.
Humphrey House, kept by P. H. Humphrey, and the Hoxie House, kept by D. R. Hoxie.
S. J. Oldfield keeps a store of general merchandise, and is at present the postmaster.
Mrs. H. Sternberg, bakery and confectionery.
A. D. Coleman and Frank Anshutz, watch-makers and jewelers.
Charles E. Lee, C. K. Patterson, H. W. Halderman, and T. Seems, physicians and surgeons.
M. L. & A. H. Aiken, millinery.

As a shipping point, Mitchellville is a place of no small pretensions. During the past year there have been shipped over three hundred thousand bushels of corn and one hundred thousand bushels of wheat.

THE MITCHELLVILLE NEWS.
This paper is published by E. T. Cressey, by whom it was established about two years ago. It was at first a six column folio, and last December it was enlarged to a seven column paper. The paper is deservedly very popular and goes into every township in the county. It has enjoyed a gradual and constant career of prosperity from the time it was first established, and is now considered not only a permanent institution, but one whose prosperity and that of the town are identical.

MITCHELL SEMINARY.
This institution was founded in 1872, and was named in honor of the Hon. Thomas Mitchell, by whose enterprise and liberality it was founded.

628 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.

The corner-stone was laid July 4th, 1872, and it was opened for school in September, 1873. The building is three stories high, with a mansard tower, and the building, in connection with the land which belongs to it, cost about $40,000. While this institution was in operation it was under the control of the Iowa Universalist convention, but it was non-sectarian in its management. The school was very prosperous for a time and was self-sustaining. The building, however, was not fully paid for, and the debt which had been incurred was a continuous burden to the persons who originated and carried forward the enterprise. During the former part of the present year it was sold to the State for the sum of $20,000, and is now used as a girl's department of the

STATE REFORM SCHOOL.

The Reform School was removed to its present location in May of the present year, and after about one month's trial it has been found to be very well adapted for the purpose for which the State purchased it. The following is a brief account of the Reform School from the time of its first establishment:

In 1866 the Legislature leased the property known as White's Manual Labor Institute, a farm of fourteen hundred acres in Lee county. After five years the boys' department was removed to Eldora, in Hardin county. A home for the girls was then opened at the White farm, and was continued until the expiration of the lease. In May, 1878, the school was removed to Mt. Pleasant, and located in a building which was leased for five years. The lease expired during the early part of the present year, and the school was removed to Mitchellville, as already stated. We will give a brief synopsis of the manner in which the school is governed. A record book is kept, and upon the entry of each girl her name, age and parentage are recorded. A careful training is given, and if the conduct of the pupil is perfect she gets a grade of 100. If her conduct will warrant 60, she is credited for the whole month. When she shall have gained twelve of these monthly grades of 100 she is entitled to a leave of absence. The system begins with 60 and grades up so that the last month in school must warrant her 95 in order to have a perfect record. She is then granted a leave of absence and if she conduct herself in conformance with the rules of society, the grant is made permanent; but, in case of misbehavior, she will be subjected to a second ordeal, and she will then have to be on her good behavior for thirteen months before she is granted another leave of absence.
The following is a brief synopsis of a late report made by Superintendent Lewelling:

Whole number of girls received since the opening of school . . . . . . . . . . 84
Attained majority and discharged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .   12
Granted leave of absence . . . . . . . . . . . . .  . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Eloped. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Total                                                                          42

HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 629

Remaining 42
Returned from elopement. 8
Returned from leave of absence 3
Total 53
Of this number, the several counties sent the following:
Polk 19
Pottawattamie
Lee 9
Wapello 6
Benton 5
Mahaska 4
Mills 3
Clinton 3
Henry 2
Jackson 2
Washington 2
Dubuque 2
Jefferson 2
Nativity.
Iowa 44
Missouri 12
Illinois 6
Sweden 2
Germany 1
Canada 1
Parentage.
American 40
German 13
Irish 12
African 10
The girls were committed by the following tribunals:
Supreme Court 3
District Court 36
Circuit Court 31
Police Court 14

Causes of Commitment
Incorrigibility 31
Vagrancy 17
Manslaughter 1
Disorderly conduct 13
Larceny 11

630 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.

Keeping brothel 1
Prostitutes 10
Ages.
Five years 1
Seven years 3
Nine years 3
Ten years 2
Eleven years 2
Twelve years 4
Thirteen years 4
Fourteen years 14
Fifteen years 26
Sixteen years 15
Seventeen years 8
Eighteen years 2
Social Conditions
Lost father 23
Lost mother 11
Lost both parents 21
Parents separated 7
Parents living together 18
Parents unknown 4
The following remarks as to results are from a statement recently made by Superintendent Lewelling:

"It is an opinion too prevalent that the result of our labors here are not sufficient to justify the expense incurred by the State in maintaining such an institution, but it must be borne in mind that many of these girls come from the slums of the cities and almost all from broken homes, where the sweet, quiet influence of love is never known. It is a remarkable fact that in almost every case either the father or mother is dead, frequently both parents, or if living, they are separated, or living together unhappily. Of course the progeny of such homes, and such circumstances are often shiftless, incorrigible and vicious, and from such homes and such circumstances, come the boys and girls of the Reform School.

"It becomes, therefore, the duty of such institutions as ours to restrain and reform such characters as these, and it can scarcely be hoped that all will have amended their lives. It can positively be shown, however, that as many as seventy per cent of those committed to the institution return to their homes reformed in purpose and conduct, and that few of them lapse into their vicious habits.
"Subjoined are a few extracts from letters written by girls who have graduated out of the school. The first is from the first girl discharged four years ago:

"Mr. & Mrs. Lewelling: WASHINGTON, Iowa, Sept. 20, 1878.

"Dear Friends- * * I am doing better every year. ** go in good society, better than I ever did before. I may thank you for

HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 631

all that. Often do I think of that. Think of me as often as you are thought of. Yours in love, "
OSCEOLA, Iowa, Sept. 28, 1879.

Mrs. Lewelling:
" Dear Friend-I feel quite ashamed of myself for not writing to you sooner. My sister has been quite sick, is somewhat better now. I am trying to get a place to teach school, do not know how I shall succeed. If I do not, I shall come back there and go to school. I am doing a great deal of fancy work now, and am doing quite well. Am making a carriage robe for which I shall receive five dollars.
" With love,-
" KEOKUK, Iowa, Aug. 23, 1879.

"Mrs. Lewelling:
"Dear Friend-It has been some time since I have had a letter from you. I am trying to do right, and the folks are so good in every way to help me. I don't think that any of them look down on me, and I have many friends to help me to do right. I am living with the same family yet; have been here eleven months. I want to see you all so much. Remember me to all the folks. I hope to hear from you soon.
" As ever,
" KEARNEY, Neb., June 23, 1879.

" Mrs. Lewelling
"Dear Friend-I received your kind, welcome letter and hope to hear from you often. I am enjoying myself well, attend Sunday-school every Sunday. Am going to help at a church festival next week. I do most of the work. I practice on the organ every spare moment. A friend brought me a nice piece of music to-day. Hoping to hear from you soon, I am your friend,-- '

" The following letters are from other parties and explain themselves:
" MT. PLEASANT, IOWA.
"Mrs. Lewelling:
" Dear I friend-I just received a letter from my son. He says the girl seems to like her home, and they are well pleased with her. She is taken with the children and they like her so much. I am glad she is there for she will have a good home and I think she will always stay.
" Your friend, LOUISA BERRYHILL.

" DUBUQUE, Iowa, March 26, 1879. " Mr. L. D. Lewelling:
" Dear Sir-I have made inquiry of several people of the neighborhood concerning Miss --,and all agree in saying that the girl has a good reputation, is moral in character, industrious in habit and deserves to be in a better situation. Her mother is intemperate, but works hard at times at washing, etc. I saw her a few days ago. She says the girl often speaks of you and Mrs. Lewelling, and esteems you as great friends, and would be glad to be with you again. Yours truly,
" N. W. BOYES
"(Mr. Boyes is the County Superintendent of the Schools of Dubuque county.)

632 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.

Mr. Lewelling is the executive head of the establishment; while upon Mrs. L. devolves the domestic government of the household and care of the children. She is the central planet of a system governed by the law of attraction. There is no coercion, no jar, but all moves smoothly and in willing obedience to the governing law. No sign of the penal nature of the institution is anywhere visible. For the long winter evenings, select readings, literary exercises and dramatic entertainments pass the time and employ the minds of sixty-five girls who are the inmates. There are, in addition to the Superintendent and his amiable wife, three assistants; one of whom has charge of the school which is in session eight hours each day; one has charge of the laundry and the third superintends the sewing department.

CHURCHES,
The M. E. Church of Mitchellville was organized in 1855. Elijah Canfield and wife, Lot Plummer and wife, A. J. Barton and wife, I. C. Barton and wife, Maria Burk, J. Ezra Plummer and wife, Jeremiah Canfield and wife, Homer Canfleld and Joshua Canfield were among the first members and those chiefly active in bringing about the organization, A frame church building was erected in 1876 at a cost of twenty-four thousand dollars. The present membership numbers sixty.

The Universalist Church was organized in 1878. The original membership numbered thirty-five, of which the following were the officers:
Moderator, Thomas Mitchell.
Clerk, Barlard Slate.
Treasurer, Tillie Mitchell.
Deacons, W. S. Jones, A. Rothrock, Pauline Weeks.
A frame church building was erected in 1870, at a cost of two thousand dollars. The following
are the names of the pastors who have had charge of the church: W. W. King, T. C: Eaton, J. R.
Sage, A. Vedder, F. W. Gillette.
The present membership is 41.
The Church of Christ was organized in April, 1870. Samuel Henderson and wife, W. H. Hall and wife, C. H. Jones and wife, James Rooker and wife and John E. Heduck and wife were among the persons who formed the first membership. In 1873 a frame church edifice was erected at a cost of two thousand, two hundred and fifty dollars.
The present membership numbers seventy-six.

POPULATION.
Like all other towns which in the western country are so ambitious to make a good showing in point of population, Mitchellville falls considerable short of the number of inhabitants which it has been claiming. According to the returns of the enumerator who has just completed his work, the population is about eight hundred.

MADISON TOWNSHIP.
Madison township was organized in April, 1847. As at first constituted it was composed of congressional township number eighty-one, of range twenty-five, number eighty, of range twenty-five, number eighty-one, of range

HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 633

twenty-four, and the north half of number eighty, range twenty-four. It will thus be seen that Lincoln, Jefferson and a portion of Crocker townships have been formed out of the original territory belonging to Madison township. As a township, Madison is one of the oldest in the county and the territory which originally composed it now contains about one fourth of the population of the county outside Des Moines. Taking into consideration its past history together with the present, the township is one of the most important in the county. It is celebrated alike for its population, wealth, abundance of natural resources and for the interesting nature of its natural resources. Big Creek, its principal stream was early famed, and along its banks were begun the first settlements in the north part of the county. Among the pioneers of this township are Andrew Messersmith, the oldest, probably, now living in the township; L. M. Small, who came in 1846; David Norris, Andrew Grosclose, R. Bowman, Wm. Hampton, Charles Gaston, Andrew Evans, now living in Boone, James Wilson and C. M. Burt: Of these original pioneers there are but three now living in the township -A. Messersmith, L. M. Small and C. M. Burt. There are others who may be considered pioneers, Eli Mosier, A. T. Davis, Jno. Elsley, Wm. Rowe, C. and J. H. Grigsby. The first election was held at the house of L. M. Small, in section thirty-four in the spring of 1847. The first justice of the peace was John McClain. The first death that we have account of was a daughter of L. M. Small, who died January, 1848. The first regular physician was Dr. Mather. The first preaching was by the Rev. Mr. Buzick which was only occasionally. Along the southern boundary of this township, which is the Des Moines river, there is an abundance of timber, and the land somewhat rough, but the northern part is prairie and mostly well improved.

POLK CITY.

This town was located in May, 1850, on the northwest quarter of section one, township eighty, range twenty-five, near the Des Moines river, by George Bebee, who settled there in 1846. It was an attractive spot, and was formerly the site of an Indian village, called Wauconsa. Having no competing towns nearer than Des Moines on the south, and Boone on the north, it maintained, through the enterprise of its citizens, its prestige as a thriving town. It arose to the dignity of a corporation in 1875, with the following as its first board of official dignitaries: A. D. Hickman, mayor; J. A. Kuntz, recorder; A. L. Clinghan, treasurer; T. L. Dyer, assessor; N. R. Kuntz, O. N. Rogers, Wm. G. Swim, W. J. Wilson, R. R. Armstrong, aldermen. In 1865 the Chicago & Northwestern railroad was completed to Boone, and in 1867 the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific road was completed to Des Moines, and these roads soon began to draw largely on the territory before tributary to Polk City. In 1874 the Des Moines & Minneapolis (narrow gauge) road was opened from Des Moines to Ames, passing through Polk City, and the citizens thereof were measurably contented and pleased; but one of the most uncertain things is the future of a town located on a railroad. In 1879 the narrow gauge road passed into the control of the Chicago & Northwestern, who at once decided to change the gauge to that of the standard width, and also to straighten the line more nearly to a direct one, which would leave Polk City nearly two miles to the west. This has been done, much to the discomfiture of Polk City,

634 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.

whose citizens are now making efforts through the courts to regain their alleged violated rights. The following are the leading business houses of the place:
General merchandise-N. R. Kuntz and R. L. Clingam.
Drugs and groceries -Armstrong & Dyer, S. S. Robinson.
Hardware-J. B. Kellison.
Agriculiural implements-Jno. Simmons.
Harness-Jno. Fett, Frank Plappert.
Livery stable-E. H. Crane.
Furniture and undertaking- Mosier & Halpman, A. Snyder.
Shoe shops-H. B. Sweeney, Win. Shuetz.
Millinery and dress making-M. E. DeLare.
Physicians-R. B. Armstrong, J. O. Skinner & H. Matter, homeopathic.
Meat market-Moses Pierce & -. Kirtzman.
Blacksmiths-Fenner Bros, Bowen Fenner & Harver.
Wagon shops-Conrad Huge.
Saw mills-Miles & Crabtree, Vauhining & Crank.
Flouring mills-Egleston & Stubs.
Hotel-Miles House, George W. Miles, proprietor.
Secret societies-I. O. O. F., Masonic, A. O. U. W.
Jewelry-Stark & Crank.-
Churches-Methodist, Congregationalist, Baptist and Christian.

The following is a list of the city officers:
Mayor and J. P.-Simon Helpman.
Recorder-G. W. Roe.
Treasurer-S. S. Robinson.
Assessor-J. Chivalier.
Marshal-M. Crabtree.
Councilmen-R. L. Clingan, James Crabtree, E. H. Crane, J. Simmons, George W. Miles, William J, Van Hyning.

CHURCHES.

The Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in 1848, with about twelve members. A frame church building was erected in 1866, at a cost of fifteen hundred dollars. The building was dedicated in 1867. There is now an indebtedness of about one hundred and fifty dollars. The membership numbers sixty.

The Baptist Church was organized in 1868. Z. Loper, F. Loper, R. L. Clingan, Mrs. E. L. Cling- an, Lucinda Gardner, Samantha Harvey, E. P. Saunders, and Dorcas Baker were the persons who composed the first organization. The congregation has no house of worship, and at present numbers but twenty members. Dr. J. A. Nash, W. H. Wilson and L. W. Atkins have been pastors in times past.

The Congregationalist Church was organized April 3, 1858. The first members of the organization were as follows: Solomon Hunt, H. R. Bardwell, Clara A. Bardwell, Sara R. Burnet

634a

and Catharine Stewart. A frame church was erected in 1868 at a cost of three thousand dollars. The building was dedicated in 1869 by Joseph W. Picker. Among the pastors who have had charge of the church in times past were the following : Revs. J. K. Nutting, G. W. Palmer, Alexander Parker and J. F. Graves. The

HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 635

membership at present numbers thirty-seven. There is a flourishing Sunday-school in connection with the church with twelve teachers and about one hundred pupils. Mr. O. N. Rogers is said to have hauled the first piece of timber which was used in the construction of the church building.

SECRET SOCIETIES.

Polk City Masonic Operative Lodge, No. 308, A. F. & A. M. Date of charter, June 5, 1872, with the following charter members: A. Holcraft, W. M.; N. R. Kuntz, S. W.; S. F. Donaldson, S. S.; C. A. Williams, J.W.; B. O. Hanger, J. D.; H. Crabtree, Tyler; R. B. Armstrong, Treas.; F. F. Barton, S. D.; A. D. Kellison, Chap.; C. J. Clark, Sec.; W. Rowe, J. S. The present members are: R. B. Armstrong, Treas., W. Gaston, G. C. Baker, D. C. Hanger, T. J. Brinton, B. O. Hanger, H. H. Beigler, J. ,Hunt, E. W. Burleigh, S. Hunt, D. Blain, J. D., S. H. Houser, C. J. Clark, N. R. Kuntz, W. M., H. Crabtree, A. D. Kellison, R. L. Clingan, Sec., T. T. Kelsall, J. W., E. H. Crane; S. S., B. A. Little, W. M. Campbell, S. D., F. McClain, G. S. Chambers, John McLean, J. Channon, H. J. McDonald, :S. F. Donaldson, Jas. McLean, G. Donoy, P. Messersmith, E. S. Derrickson, Tyler, J. N. Noland, J. Dunlap, H. O. Ken, F. L. Dyer, Ed. Parmenter, H. Egleston, S. W., M. Ritgers, Wm. Rowe, J. C. Thompson, J. Ropelye, T. Warden, P. Sutter, C. F. Wright, C. C.Shellhart, W. J. Wilson, F. Saylor, J. Young, A. C. Truesdell, Geo. Zerr; F. Trumpeter, Gust. B. Little.

The hall is 18x50 feet, on the second floor, rented from N. R. Kuntz. Polk County I. O. O. F. Polk City Lodge, No. 300. Date of charter, October 22, 1874, with the following members: A. Holcraft, Jno. McLean, R. L. Clingan, C. F. Wright, N. R. Herrington, D. W. Ingersoll, J. Schroeder. The membership is seventy-nine members in good standing. The size of hall is 18x50 feet, leased from J. B. Kellison, and is well fitted up. They have a Rebecca degree, No. 89, "Samarian," chartered October 18, 1877.

Excelsior Lodge, No. 185, A. O. U. W., is yet in its infancy, its charter only dating back to March 20, 1879; it now has a membership of 18, and bids fair to become much stronger.

OTHER TOWNS.

In addition to Polk City, Madison township has in time past boasted of two towns. Montacute, or, more definitely speaking, Springfield, was laid out by G. H. and J. Hauser, in June, 1849. It was located on the south side of the southwest quarter of section 6, township 80, range. 24. Corydon was laid out in May, 1853, by James Skidmore and Nathan Mathews. It was located on the southeast quarter of southwest quarter and southwest quarter of southwest quarter of section 12, township 80, range 25. In 1855 New Corydon was laid out adjoining the old town by the same parties.

HOPKINS' GROVE U. B. CHURCH.

This church was organized in 1851 with about twenty members. In 1866 a frame church building was erected at a cost of $1,800. Rev. John Simpson was the pastor at the time the church was erected. The denomination

636 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.

of which this church forms a part boasts that it never fellowshipped a slaveholder nor a member of a secret society: The church is in a prosperous condition and has a membership of sixty.

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP

The first settlements in the bounds of the township, were made between the years 1848 and 1852. It was in this region of country that the McClain settlement was located; it was also here that the Hon. William H. McHenry settled when he first came to the county. Mr. Nathan Andrews was one of the early settlers and among the most influential citizens who came in early times. Thomas Murray came from Indiana in 1852, and settled on section 3. He had a family of seventeen children. The first school-house erected in the township was in the McClain neighborhood. It was used not only for schools but also for religious and political purposes. The first births in the township were those of David Hartman, born September 4, 1850; Shelton M. McClain, born April 8, 1851; and Mary Angelina McClain. The parents of the former were John D. and Olive McClain, of the latter John and Mary Ann McClain. The first death was that of Jesse Spickelmeyer, who died in 1853, and was buried on the Andrews farm, where there is now a cemetery. The first regularly practicing physician was Dr. D. C. Mather., who now resides in Boonesboro. Rev. Wm. Coger, a Christian preacher, and Ezra Rathbun, were the first to conduct public religious services. Martha Duncan was the first "school-marm"; she received the sum of one dollar per week, and was boarded by the patrons of the school. In the winter of 1848 Mr. Coger was going home from church in company with Mr. Hunt, when he saw a prairie wolf. The snow was about three feet deep, and the reverend gentleman forgetting that it was Sunday, started in pursuit, and running it down caught it in his arms, and carried the prize home, a distance of eight miles. Jefferson township was a part of Madison till the spring of 1851, when it was ordered to be formed into a separate township. The boundaries of the township at first can be determined by the following official order:

Ordered, That the following boundaries are hereby established as the boundaries of Jefferson township, to-wit: Beginning where the line extending between sections sixteen and twenty-one, in township seventy-nine, range twenty-four, crosses the Des Moines river; thence west along said line between sections seventeen, twenty, eighteen, nineteen, of said township, to the range line between twenty-four and twenty-five; thence north along said line to Beaver Creek; thence up the channel of said creek to the township line between townships seventy-nine and eighty, of range twenty-five; thence west along said line to the west line of Polk county; thence north along said line to the Des Moines river; thence down the main channel of said river to the place of beginning And it is further ordered, that the school-house in district number one, in the present township of Madison, be the place for holding the first election in the township.

636a

It was in the bounds of this township that the first murder was committed, the details of which are narrated elsewhere. Here it was also where the first effective claim club, as a township organization, was first formed,. William H. McHenry, first Sheriff, then mayor of Des Moines, and now District Judge, being one of the leading members of the organization. The early settlers of this part of the county were a long way off from any base

HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 637

of supplies, Fort Des Moines being the nearest trading point. The distance was great considering the almost impassable condition of the roads, and to avoid the necessity of a too frequent trip to Des Moines the settlers produced themselves many articles of domestic comfort. Mrs. Jessie Fouts and Mrs. Olive McClain were especially noted as being expert weavers of carpet and cloth. In fact the prudent wives of the early settlers were skilled in many kinds of domestic labor, which have become to be among the lost arts.

As an agricultural region Jefferson township probably has no superior in the State. The soil and other physical characteristics of the country make it especially well adapted to farming and stock-raising. While the surface of the land is not much broken except along the Des Moines river, it is sufficiently undulating to make the climate healthy and soil productive even during the rainy season. Beaver Creek flows through the center of the township, and between the main stream and its principal tributary, South Beaver, is a beautiful plateau, which is not only the loveliest region in the county but is also healthy and as productive as nature with her exhaustless resources could well make it. Immediately south of Beaver Creek, in section twenty, is located a small body of water known on the map as Pleasant Lake. In the southwest part of the township is Ayers' Grove.

In February, 1857, the town of Andrews was laid out. It is situated about one mile southwest of the Des Moines river, on the northeast quarter of the southeast quarter of section nine township eighty, range twenty-five. The town was laid out by William Frazier and Nathan Andrews. The town is not now and never aspired to be a place of very great pretensions. Nevertheless in its unassuming career it has not escaped the slanders of envious neighbors who sometimes call it by the euphonious name of Dog Town. This name, it is said, had its origin in the fact that a man by the name of Doggett has had considerable to do with its past history. There are, however, towns and cities of much greater note and commercial importance than Andrews has yet aspired to, which have acquired fame and prosperity despite odious nicknames. There is a post-office located at Andrews, and this in connection with its favorable location make it a favorite resort of the rural inhabitants on rainy days and Saturday evenings.

Almost contemporaneous with Andrews was the former town of great expectations known by the name of Lovington. It was laid out in December, 1854. Its location was at the mouth of Beaver Creek on the south-east quarter of section 18, township 79, range 24. The town has now no importance except as a relic of the departed past. It has lost its local habitation and name, and a person in order to find it would be compelled to avail himself of the services of the County Surveyor. Lovington, however, must not perish; long live Lovington.
The first township trustees were S. Hunt, Wm. Hartway and Wm. F. Ayers. Wm. S. Prouty was the first clerk, and J. D. McClain was the first assessor. The first official meeting of the township board was held in a log schoolhouse on section 36. There is one district township and nine sub districts.

The present township officers are as follows:
Trustees-Samuel O. Ewing, Joseph Herrold, and W. P. McClain.
Clerk-N. Frazier.

638 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.

The other officers are A. H. Parrott, C. H. Campbell, J. A. White, F. Caborow and John Davis.

CROCKER TOWNSHIP.

This township is composed of all that part of congressional township number 80, of range 24, which lies east of the Des Moines river. This includes all of the congressional township except about two sections, which lying west of the Des Moines river is attached to Jefferson township. From 1867 till 1870 the territory now comprising Crocker township was divided between Saylor and Madison townships. At the meeting of the Board of Supervisors on December 20, 1870, there were two petitions presented to the honorable body praying for the organization of new townships. One was signed by numerous citizens of the county living in the south part of Saylor township, praying that the part of congressional township 79, of range 24, lying east of the Des Moines river be made and constituted a separate civil township, to be known by the name of Lincoln. The other petition was signed by a large number of citizens, electors and property owners residing in the east part of Madison township, praying for the organization of a new township composed of the territory included in congressional township number 81, of range 24. These petitions were granted, and it was ordered that the part of congressional township number 79, of range 24, lying east of the Des Moines river be formed into a new township, and that it be called Saylor; that congressional township number 81, of range 24, be organized into a new township and called Lincoln; that the south part of congressional township number 80, of range 24, heretofore belonging to Saylor, and the north part heretofore belonging to Madison township, be organized into a new township and called Crocker. Such is the history of the formation of the township. It was named in honor of Gen. M. M. Crocker, one of the most distinguished citizens of Des Moines, and one of the most gallant soldiers among the many which Polk county sent into the army during the war of the rebellion. The township was formally organized January 9, 1871, at which time the first election was held. F. Nagle, E. Parmenter and D. C. Marts were the first trustees. J. M. Marts was the first assessor of the township. The first meeting of the board was held at the Dietz school-house, located in sub district number 5. The township was divided into nine school districts in each of which have been erected comfortable school-houses. The school-houses are located as follows: Northwest corner of section 12; northeast corner of section 9; northeast corner of section 7; northeast corner of section 18; southeast corner of section 16; southeast corner of section 23; southwest part of section 36; west part of section 34; southeast part of section 29.

There are also nine road districts, and there were last year levied for road purposes the sum of four mills on each dollar of property assessed. The population of Crocker township is composed chiefly of persons engaged in farming and stock raising. They are a thrifty and enterprising class of people and the township is rapidly filling up. The soil is productive, and when the land is brought under a good state of cultivation the country will sustain a very dense population. The Des Moines Minneapolis Railroad passes diagonally through the township from the southeast to the northwest, and thereby are furnished

HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 639

good facilities for the shipment of the superfluous products of the country. Along the line of the railroad have been established three stations-Trent, in the extreme south part of the township; Ankney, near the center; and Pelton, in the northwest. There is no regularly laid out town at the first named place, there being simply a depot, post-office and buildings suitable for the storing and transferring of grain and stock. Ankney was laid out in April, 1875, by J. F. Ankney. It is located on the west half of the northeast quarter of section 23, township 80, range 21. Its growth during the past five years has not been rapid but gradual and healthy. It is the popular trading point for a large and prosperous section of country, and from present indications will, in the course of a few years, be a town of some four or five hundred inhabitants. Pelton Station is located on the north part of the southwest quarter of section 9, on the west bank of Rock Creek, a beautiful little stream which rises near the north boundary of the township and empties into the
Des Moines about five miles southwest of Ankney.

Four Mile Creek passes through the northeast corner of the township, and with the exception of some scattering timber along its banks in sections 1 and 12, the northeast half of the township is a continuous prairie, with slight elevations and small depressions, forming an undulating surface of surprising beauty and remarkable fertility of soil. The southwestern portion is more broken and largely interspersed with timber growths. In this township, like others already mentioned, the first settlements were made in the timber, and when the prairie portion of the township began to be settled there was a lively competition and some strife between the respective parts of the township.

The first school-house built in this region of country was the Dietz school-house, built in 1851, and constructed of hewn logs. Conrad Stutzman, one of the most prominent citizens of the county in early times, resided in the bounds of Crocker township. Among other early settlers were the following: C. Dietz, Jacob Shellhart, D. Brumbaugh, Samuel Brown, and David Miller. Many of the early settlers have died arid their remains lie buried in the cemetery on section. 17, about one mile southwest of Pelton Station.

The Des Moines Valley Church was erected by a congregation of Dunkers during the year 1876 at a cost of fourteen hundred dollars. This society was organized in the year 1868, with a membership of some eight or ten, of whom Conrad Dietz and George Baker were the more prominent. The society has from time to time been augmented by the location in the neighborhood of immigrants of that peculiar faith. It is now in a most flourishing condition, and has a membership of some eighty. The present officers of the township are as follows: , Trustees-R. Wane, C. H. Gross, J. L. Miller.
Assessor-George Harley.

LINCOLN TOWNSHIP.

The first steps taken for the organization of this township occurred in December, 1870. At a meeting of the Board of Supervisors on the 26th of that month a petition from the citizens, electors and property owners of congressional township number 81, of range 24 was presented, praying that the said territory be constituted a new township, to be known by the

640 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.

name of Norway township. It was urged by the petitioners that a large portion of them resided from six to eight miles from Polk City, the place where elections were always held, and they, averred their belief that a large number of people would be greatly benefited by the organization of a new township. The petition was granted, but at a subsequent meeting the name was changed from Norway township to that of Lincoln. The first election was held on March 3d, 1871, at which time the following officers were elected
Trustees-S. C. Beals, Peter Berggeiberg and Hector Mason.
Clerk-R. S. McConnell.
Assessor-E. W. Van Gundy.

The first official meeting of the township board was held at a school-house in district number five. This was the first school-house erected in the township, and was built by Mr. Hardaroy. There are no school sub districts in this township, as there is no district township. There are nine school districts, all independent. During the year 1857 there was the sum of two hundred and fifty dollars raised for school purposes by taxation; this, together with the semi-annual apportionment of public school money, was sufficient for all the demands. The equalized valuation of all the real estate in the township in 1879 was $242,188. The personality returned by the assessor was valued at $57,037.

There are in the township nine road districts, and the tax levied for the improvement of roads amounted to five mills on the dollar, four of which might be paid in labor and one in cash. The present officers of the township are as follows:
Trustees-S. C. Beals, David Maunch and John Hamminson.
Clerk-James Rappley.
Assessor-Frederick Maz.

The first settlements in the township were made chiefly by emigrants from Sweden, the population of the township yet being largely composed of people of that nationality. The first improvements were made on sections two, thirty, thirty-one and thirty-two.
The first school-house was erected in the southwest quarter of section fourteen, and was afterward removed to district number five. The schoolhouses are now located as follows:
Number one in the southeast corner of section two; number two in the southwest corner of section three, near to and on the east side of Four Mile Creek; number four in the northeast corner of section nineteen, about one mile northeast of Ulm Station; number five in the northwest corner of section twenty-two, one mile west of Four Mile Creek; number seven in the northwest corner of section thirty-one; number eight in the southeast corner of section twenty-eight; number six in the southwest corner of section thirteen.
There are two churches; one located in the northeast corner of section eight, and one in the west part of section thirty-one.

The Evangelist Lutheran Church was organized in 1876. The three most prominent members of the first organization were Peter Johnson, O. Halvarson, and T. Hervey. A frame church edifice was erected in 1876 at a

HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY 641

cost of fourteen hundred dollars. The church was at first erected on the northeast quarter of section eight, and in 1878 was removed to Sheldahl.

The Lincoln township cemetery was laid out in August, 1878. It is located twenty chains north of the southeast corner of section twenty-eight. The trustees of the cemetery when first laid out were J. C. Beals, David Maunch and Lars Thompson.

Four Mile Creek flows entirely across the township, a little east of south, and somewhat east of the center of the township. With the exception of some scattering timber along Four Mile Creek, the township consists of an unbroken, undulating prairie. The surface is rather too level, but the soil is of great fertility, and when well cultivated produces abundant crops of cereals of all kinds, especially corn. Grasses also grow with great luxuriance, and stock-raising is followed with considerable success.

PALMER POST-OFFICE.

named in honor of a former member of Congress from this district, is located near the center of the township, about one mile west of Four Mile Creek, in the east part of section twenty-one.

ULM STATION

is on the Des Moines & Minnesota Railway, in section nineteen, at the extreme western limits of the township.

SHELDAHL

is the great Swedish town of Central Iowa, and although it is but about five years old, is growing so rapidly as to be a place of considerable importance. The larger part of the town, is situated in Lincoln township, Polk county, but Story county and Boone county also claim a portion of it. It was laid out by J. S. Polk, of Des Moines, in October, 1874. That part of it in Polk county is situated on the northwest quarter of section six, township eighty-one, of range twenty-four. It is one of the best way stations for the shipment of grain and stock on the line of the Des Moines & Minnesota Railroad, and there is probably not a town in Central Iowa which has displayed more enterprise or enjoyed greater prosperity during the past wear than this one. As before remarked, the town is almost exclusively Swedish in its antecedents and characteristics, and the representatives of this nationality in Iowa are beginning to recognize its importance. It is now contemplated to locate a Swedish institution of learning at this point.

ELKHART TOWNSHIP.
This civil township corresponds with congressional township number eighty-one, of range twenty-three. It was originally a part of Skunk township which included the northeast quarter of the county. Skunk township gradually lost one portion of its territory after another until it was finally used up, and a number of new townships, less in extent of territory, greater in wealth and population, and known by names much more pleasing to the refined ear, appeared in its stead. Among these was Elkhart, which was organized during the summer of 1851.

642 HISTORY OF POLK COUNTY.

It was about the last official business which the old Board of County Commissioners transacted, to subdivide the county into new townships, and the wisdom of their action is demonstrated in the fact that those outlines became the basis of all future action in that direction. The settlement of this township begins in the spring of 1846, when J: C. Cory came from Indiana and settled there and may be recorded as the first to settle within its limits on section thirty-six. He met Jno. Fisher at Iowa City who accompanied him but took his claim in Douglas township. That following fall I. W. Cory came, and among the early settlers were W. K. Woods, Abe Byers, Jerry Cory, Jr. and Sr., Lemuel Venamon and family and a little later S. C. Miller, C. W. Gurnea, who laid out the town of Ottawa in that township , James A. Woods, L. T. Fowler, John Delawyer, A. S. Wood and James Hutton. The first election or official meeting was held at a large rock that is now within the present limits of Douglas township in the northeast corner. At that time the townships were not laid out. This was in 1848, and there were but few present. The next meeting was held at the house of Jerry Cory, Jr. J. W. Cory was elected justice of the peace. The first child born was a daughter of Jerry Cory, May 21, 1849. The first death was a little daughter of J. W. Cory in 1846. The first physician was Dr. Jessup. The first marriage was J. B. Cory to Sarah Smith . The first preacher was Jerry Cory. The first school building was made of logs, on section thirty-six of this township. The first teacher, King Fisher. The township was named by Jerry Cory for the county he came from in Indiana. This township contains more flat land than any other one in the county. The only timber is in two groves, one called White Oak and the other Cory's Grove; part of it is yet poorly improved, but at the same time there are many good and well improved farms within its limits. Ohio, Indiana and the Northern States are well represented among the settlers, and also Norway.

Mr. Gurnea was, for a number of years, a member of the Board of Supervisors, he having first been elected when the township system went into effect. Lavish Grove, one of the first settlements in the north part of the county, is in the southwest part of the township; it was named after Michael Lavish, one of the first settlers in that region.

White Oak grove is located north and west from Lavish grove. It is at head waters of a little creek of the same name which rises in section seventeen, and flows northwest into the Skunk river. Cory's grove is a beautiful and extensive belt of timber south of the center of the township; through this timber flows a little stream called Swan Creek. At the northeast limits of this grove the creek spreads out and forms, especially during the rainy season, a small lake which is known as Swan Lake. This grove spoken of was named in honor of Rev. Mr. Cory, who settled there at a very early day. In the extreme southeast corner of the township is another small stream called Byer's Creek, which flows northwest and empties into the Skunk river. There is also considerable timber along the banks of this stream. The surface of this township is more diversified than that of either of the townships which border upon it. Skunk river passes diagonally across it, and the presence of this river always indicates deep gorges and high bluffs. The river enters the township from the north and passes almost directly south through section three; it then makes an abr