Des Moines Polk County Republican. Born August 16, 1889, in Franklin county, Ill. Enlisted in Company F, 23rd Infantry, U.S.A., in 1907, and served in the Philippine Islands and on the Mexican border. Entered college at Valparaiso, Indiana, graduating from the law department in 1914. Married to Pearl Kirkpatrick of Royalton, Ill., July 6, 1914; father of one daughter, Betty Lou, 16. Moved to Des Moines in 1916 and became general counsel of the National Life Association. During the World War was an instructor in the Officers' School, Camp Lee, Virginia. Became general counsel of the Merchants Life Insurance Company. Engaged in the general practice of law with Hallagan, Fountain, Stewart and Cless. Appointed Judge of the Des Moines Municipal Court, Judge Advocate of the Iowa National Guard. Served also as special assistant attorney general and as aid to civil authorities during periods of martial law in Iowa. Serving first term in legislature.