Representative from Shelby county, was born in Iowa county, Iowa, September 4, 1872, of German parentage. When three years of age his parents moved to Shelby county, where he has since lived. Was educated in the village schools of Harlan and at Cornell College, Mt. Vernon, Iowa. At the age of 20, he became associated with the firm, of Chas. Escher & Son, who are engaged in the breeding and importing of Aberdeen Angus cattle, and today are recognized as having the largest herd of registered Aberdeen Angus cattle in America. Was married in 1894. Served as a member of the board of supervisors from 1908 to 1911. Has also been a member of the State Board of Agriculture, resigning from the same when elected to the General Assembly. Elected Representative in 1910. A Democrat in politics.