Farmer and stock-raiser, section 25, P.O. Montezuma. Was born in Neponset, Bureau county, Illinois, January 1, 1855, and was there educated and raised. His father, Thomas Bates, pursued the vocation of a farmer.
The subject of this sketch came to Poweshiek county in the spring of 1877, and located where he now resides. He was married, December 25, 1877, to Miss Fannie E. Handraker of Mt. Vernon, Jefferson county, Illinois. She is a lady who devotes her time to making home comfortable and inviting. Their family consists of one son, Harry Lee (born October 19, 1878).
Mr. Bates owns eighty acres of land, well stocked with cattle, horses, hogs, etc. He has begun life with a fair start, and being an industrious and persevering young man his success as an agriculturalist is certain.