Representative from Jefferson county, was born on the farm where he now resides in Jefferson county, Iowa, in 1853. His parents were pioneer settlers in the county. He attended the rural schools, Axeling Academy and the Iowa Business College and law school. He taught four years in the rural schools and one year as principal of Competine High School. Has been a member of the school board of the township where he resides since he was twenty-one years of age. He is a farmer by occupation. Has never held a political office before but has always taken an active part in politics and questions relative to building up the rural community. Was married to Cora Kirby, October 4, 1877, a native of Illinois. He has three sons and two daughters. Elected representative in 1916. A democrat in politics.