Des Moines 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 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 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 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 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 Albert M. Hadley

History of Adair County, Iowa, and its people vol 2 title page

Albert M. Hadley, a pioneer settler and owner of 160 acres of farmland in Eureka township, has witnessed the transformation of a frontier district into a prosperous agricultural area. Born in Indiana in 1854, he began farming in Iowa after reaching the age of twenty. In 1875, he settled in Adair county, rented land, and eventually purchased his present property. Hadley has made significant improvements on his land, raising thoroughbred shorthorn cattle and Poland China hogs. As the oldest resident of the township, he has played an active role in local politics, serving as a justice of the peace and … 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 Ira Cook

A very prominent man in Des Moines in the early days was Ira Cook. He came to Davenport in 1836, with his father, a small boy, worked fourteen and fifteen hours a day helping his father start a farm, and plant by hand what he declared was the first field of corn in Scott County. He came to Des Moines in September, 1852, on foot, with ten men, his supplies and camp equipage drawn by two horses, en route to sub-divide, as United States Surveyor, a district of ten townships in what are now the counties of Carroll and Sac. … Read more

Biography of Daniel O. Finch

Daniel O. Finch, commonly known as “Dan,” arrived in Des Moines in 1853 and partnered with Curtis Bates in law and banking. A distinguished lawyer, his civil and criminal practice was notable for defending the disadvantaged. In 1854, he was recommended for District Judge but was passed over. Finch was later nominated for State Senator in 1857 but narrowly lost. He played a crucial role in the Des Moines River Land Company’s legal disputes over land grants. Active in the Democratic Party, he attended several National Conventions and presided over the State Convention in 1876. Finch retired from public life and passed away in 1906.