Representative from Decatur county, was born at Plano, Illinois, February 2, 1876, of American-born parents. Moved with his parents to Lamoni, Iowa, in 1881. Educated in the public schools and at Graceland College. Was engaged in sales work and insurance for some years and for three years was engaged in telephone work in Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia. Of late years has devoted himself to editorial work with the Herald Publishing House at Lamoni. Has served as mayor of Lamoni, township clerk, town clerk and as member of the school board. Elected Representative in 1910. A Republican in politics.