Polk County Archives – Iowa Genealogy

Biography of Judge Chester C. Cole

Chester C. Cole was born on June 24, 1824, in Oxford, New York. Of English ancestry, recognized in Burke’s Registry, he spent his early years on a farm, attended public schools and Oxford Academy, and worked as a store clerk before entering Union College at eighteen. Graduating from Harvard Law School in 1848, he practiced law in Marion, Kentucky, achieving prominence in criminal law. Moving to Des Moines in 1857, Cole was elected Associate Justice of the Iowa Supreme Court in 1864 and later became Chief Justice. An advocate for the Union during the Civil War, he also founded the Iowa Law School and served as Dean of Drake University’s Law Department.

Biography of Daniel Trullinger

Daniel Trullinger, born in Ohio in 1818, was a pioneering settler of Polk County and Des Moines. Arriving at Fort Raccoon in June 1843, he established a brick-making operation crucial to the early development of the military camp. Trullinger and his uncle produced bricks for constructing buildings for soldiers and officers. After contributing significantly to the fort’s infrastructure, he returned to Fairfield before finally settling near his brother in Franklin Township. Trullinger later ventured to Colorado during the gold rush, eventually returning to Iowa to retire in Des Moines. Politically, he was a staunch Democrat and active in community education.

Biography of Wiley C. Burton

Wiley C. Burton was an early settler and influential figure in Des Moines, opening a store on Second Street and actively participating in the town’s affairs. Elected to the Town Council in 1855, he also co-built the first brick building on Third and Walnut streets, the Exchange Block, in 1855. Burton was a key player in the heated 1856 debate over the State Capitol’s location, advocating for the West Side. Later, he served as Street Commissioner in 1867 and was involved in civic improvements. Politically, Burton was a Whig and later joined the Know-Nothing Party. He resided in South Dakota by 1906.

Biography of John M. Davis

John M. Davis, born in Ohio, ventured westward in 1854, eventually becoming a prominent figure in Iowa’s state administration. In 1857, he played a crucial role in relocating state archives from Iowa City to Des Moines. Davis served as Deputy to the Secretary of State and later as Deputy and Chief Clerk in the State Land Office, contributing significantly to land grant management and legal documentation. His integrity and dedication spanned over thirty-eight years in public service, shaping Iowa’s early governmental framework. Davis’ prudent financial decisions led him to establish a lasting residence in Des Moines.

Biography of John L. Smith

John L. Smith, a native of Cazenovia, New York, became a notable figure in early Fort Des Moines after joining the American Fur Company and working extensively with Native American tribes. He moved to Des Moines in 1854, building a home near Eighth and Walnut streets, later known for its hospitality and as a political hub. Smith engaged in various business ventures, including a general store, marble business, and a grocery store. He also served as an Indian Agent. Smith’s legacy includes his contributions to the community’s moral and educational development, his active role in the Old Settlers’ Association, and his political convictions as a radical abolitionist and Whig. He died in 1874 following an accident.

Biography of Judge George G. Wright

George G. Wright, born in Indiana and crippled by rheumatism in childhood, found solace in books and graduated with honors from the State University. Moving to Iowa in 1840, he quickly became a prominent lawyer and politician. He served as Prosecuting Attorney, State Senator, and for fifteen years as Chief Justice of the Iowa Supreme Court, where he helped shape the state’s judiciary. Wright also co-founded the Iowa Law School and served as a U.S. Senator. His civic contributions included roles in the State Agricultural Society and various banks. Wright passed away in 1896, leaving a legacy of legal and civic excellence.

Biography of Elijah Canfield

Elijah Canfield, a Pennsylvanian by birth, settled in Polk County, Iowa, in 1845, establishing a farm on the prairie in Democrat Township, later renamed Camp Township. Building a log cabin, he quickly became a community leader, organizing the first Methodist Church and school district. In 1847, he moved to Four Mile Township, constructing its first schoolhouse. Facing challenges like wolves, rattlesnakes, and epidemics, Canfield remained resilient. In 1850, he relocated to Clay Township, creating one of the finest farms in the county and continuing his civic contributions. Known for his integrity and public spirit, Canfield was a prominent figure in early Polk County development.

Biography of Judge Charles C. Nourse

Charles Clinton “Charley” Nourse, a Maryland native and lawyer, significantly impacted Iowa’s public affairs. Graduating from Transylvania University in 1850, he moved to Iowa, becoming Van Buren County’s Prosecuting Attorney. He served in key roles in Iowa’s legislative bodies and was deeply involved in the early Republican Party’s establishment. Elected Attorney General in 1860, he resolved complex state financial issues and participated in notable political conventions. Nourse was also a prominent advocate for prohibition and temperance, and an active Methodist. Later in life, he retired due to vision problems, residing at his Fern Hill farm near Des Moines.

Biography of Guy K. Ayers

Guy K. Ayres, born in Ohio, moved to Iowa in 1843 with his family, eventually settling in Des Moines in 1845. They initially stayed with W.H. Meacham and later lived in soldiers’ quarters at Fort Des Moines. Ayres worked as a tailor at the fort until 1846, then took up various jobs including farming and milling. His father claimed land in what is now central Des Moines, leading to conflicts over land ownership. Ayres pursued education intermittently while helping on the family farm. Later, he became involved in milling and other enterprises across Iowa and beyond, eventually retiring comfortably in Des Moines.

Biography of Rev. Isaiah Martin Thorp Cory

The Cory family were early pioneers of Polk County, Iowa, arriving in 1846 from Elkhart County, Indiana. They settled in what was then Skunk Township and named Cory’s Grove, a notable timber area, after them. Isaiah Martin Thorp Cory, arriving at age nine, grew up amid the hardships of pioneer life, including severe winters and interactions with local Native American tribes. The Corys played a pivotal role in the formation of Elkhart Township in 1848. Isaiah became a respected community leader, serving in various township roles and as a minister, and contributed significantly to local development and social improvement.

Biography of Seth Graham

Seth Graham, a prominent citizen of Des Moines, Iowa, was born in 1831 in Wayne County, Ohio, and moved to Iowa in 1850. A skilled millwright and mechanic, he contributed significantly to the early infrastructure, building bridges and a steamboat on the Des Moines River. In 1855, he settled in Des Moines, working in sawmills and later co-owning a steam flour mill. Graham’s varied career included overseeing a flour mill, working in a foundry, and entering the transfer business. A staunch Republican and Mason, he was highly respected for his integrity, civic contributions, and long service as a Masonic treasurer.

Biography of Madison Young

Madison Young, known as “Esquire,” was a significant early settler in Des Moines, Iowa. A graduate of Union College, New York, he arrived in 1849, opening a law office and quickly becoming involved in public affairs, especially education. Young was instrumental in forming the local School District and served as Justice of the Peace and Coroner. He helped establish Iowa Central College and invested heavily in local real estate, planting orchards and vineyards. Despite his public-spirited nature and charitable contributions, he remained a reserved bachelor. Young died in 1873, leaving a substantial legacy to his family and alma mater.

Biography of Curtis Lamb

Curtis Lamb, an 87-year-old pioneer of Iowa, shared his rich experiences from early settler days during a visit with his daughter, Mrs. T. L. Blank, on Jefferson Street. Born in Posey County, Indiana, in 1827, Lamb moved with his family to Wisconsin and later to Iowa, where he became the first white settler in what is now Woodbury County. In 1856, he relocated to Sioux City, building one of the first log cabins and engaging in trade and community development. Lamb’s interactions with the Sioux, particularly Chief Ink-pa-du-a-tah, highlighted his deep connections and contributions to the early Midwest frontier.

Biography of Isaac Brandt

Isaac Brandt, a notable figure in the early history of Des Moines, Iowa, arrived in the winter of 1856 and quickly became a pivotal community member. Initially unsettled by the town’s sparse settlement and lack of infrastructure, he later decided to settle permanently, returning in April 1858 with his family. Brandt was instrumental in establishing the Independent School District of East Des Moines and was a fervent abolitionist, actively participating in the Underground Railroad. His contributions extended to local politics, where he served as a State Representative and City Alderman, advocating for infrastructure improvements and public education.

Biography of Leonard Brown

Leonard Brown, a key figure in the early history of Polk County and Des Moines, arrived in 1853 with his family from Indiana. At 16, Leonard worked various jobs to fund his education, including as a blacksmith’s helper and Deputy County Recorder. He taught the first school in Story County and later held teaching positions across Iowa, emphasizing the importance of education. Brown served in the Civil War and was elected County Superintendent of Schools in 1865. He authored several works and remained dedicated to social, moral, and educational reforms, leaving a lasting impact on the community.

Biography of Nathan Andrews

Nathan Andrews, born in 1815 near Rochester, New York, was a pivotal pioneer in Polk County, Iowa. Moving there in 1850 after preempting land in Indiana, he developed an expansive 1,500-acre farm in Madison Township, known for its advanced machinery and fine livestock. Andrews actively contributed to the community, building the first schoolhouse and supporting religious and educational endeavors. In 1857, he founded the town of Andrews. A hospitable and socially engaged individual, Andrews was also politically independent, advocating for the public good and opposing monopolistic practices like the Barbed Wire Trust.

Biography of Edward Entwistle

Edward Entwistle, born in Lancashire, England, in 1815, was a pioneering figure in railway history, operating the first locomotive, the “Rocket,” in 1830. Apprenticed at George and Robert Stephenson’s works, he played a key role in the early days of steam-powered transportation. Emigrating to America in 1837, he worked as an engineer on steamboats and in iron mills before settling in Des Moines in 1856. There, he operated flour mills and later, linseed oil mills. Entwistle’s life spanned the evolution of railroads and steam power, making him a significant historical figure in industrial progress.

Biography of Alexander C. Bondurant

Alexander C. Bondurant, born in 1829 in Sangamon County, Illinois, was a significant early settler of Polk County, Iowa. In 1857, he claimed 320 acres in Franklin Township, eventually amassing 2,500 acres. Bondurant’s contributions were vast, including organizing a church, promoting education, and fostering community growth. He founded the town of Bondurant in 1893, donating land for churches, schools, and businesses. Known for his philanthropy, Bondurant supported numerous causes, including Drake University. His legacy is evident in the thriving community of Bondurant, named in his honor.

Biography of Robert S. Finkbine

Robert S. Finkbine, often called “Bob,” was a significant figure in Iowa’s development from the mid-19th century. Originally from Ohio, he moved to Iowa in 1850, establishing himself as a skilled and honest builder. His notable projects included the State University buildings, the College for the Blind at Vinton, and various county structures. Elected to the Iowa Legislature in 1864, Finkbine served two terms, known for his integrity and clear-headedness. He later oversaw the construction of Iowa’s new Capitol, where his expertise and incorruptibility were crucial. He moved to Des Moines in 1880, continuing his public service until his retirement.

First Things in Des Moines

The article, “First Things in Des Moines,” chronicles a series of significant firsts in the city’s history, beginning with the arrival of Captain James Allen and his soldiers in 1843 to establish Fort Raccoon. It details various pioneering events and establishments that shaped Des Moines, such as the first political meeting, the first district court, and the first church, among others. This comprehensive list highlights milestones in community development, infrastructure, and local businesses, providing a clear picture of the early growth and establishment of Des Moines as a vibrant city.

Biography of A. M. Allen of Walnut Township, Iowa

Past and Present of Dallas County Title Page

A. M. Allen, for forty-one years a resident of Polk county, and for four years of Dallas county, is living on sections 12 and 13, Walnut township. He is an active, energetic and practical farmer and stock-raiser, who owns and controls two hundred and forty acres of land. He was brought to Iowa in 1867, when a little lad of less than ten years, his birth having occurred in Green county, Wisconsin, November 7, 1849. His father, Levi C. Allen, was born in Canada, and the grandfather was a native of New York. The latter served as a soldier in … Read more

Biography of E. P. Corbit of Commerce, Iowa

Of the firm of Corbit & McClees, grain dealers, Commerce, was born in Berks county, Pennsylvania, April 6, 1849, and in the spring of 1870 came from there to Des Moines, this county, and has been a resident of the county since. For a time he was engaged in teaching school in East Des Moines, and in July, 1876, he came to this place and commenced the grain business. The firm has been very successful, as they shipped for the year ending June 4, four hundred and sixty cars containing two, hundred thousand bushels of grain. Mr. Corbit has been … Read more

Biography of Colonel J. M. Griffith

Colonel J. M. Griffith, who was an important factor in developing the East Side, came from the East in the Fall of 1850, and, after looking over the field, concluded to invest. He rented a store on Second Street, paid one hundred dollars for rent in advance, to secure what he wanted, went away, returned the next Spring, took possession of the store, and began a general merchandise business. He evinced his characteristic public spirit by laying a sidewalk in front of the store lot, the first laid in the city. The town was rapidly becoming a trading-point. Settlers from … Read more

Biography of Hoyt Sherman

Few men have been better known at home and abroad than Hoyt Sherman. From the beginning to the end of his days he was loyal to the city of his adoption, and gave to it the full benefit of his business talent, excellent judgment, conservatism and wise counsel. He was a man for emergencies. Many times he was called to fiduciary posts, local, state and national, where integrity and fidelity were fully tested. Courteous, affable, social, he was very popular. He came to Des Moines from a printing office in Ohio, in May, 1848, and entered the office of Thomas … Read more

The Pioneers of Polk County, Iowa

This book does not contain the usual biographies of the individuals, rather it contains events in their lives as “pioneers” of Polk County. These were published in the Sunday Register and Leader, during the years of 1904-6; and the author of the book, compiled and published them in two books.