For the first time in twenty-two years Johnson county will be represented in the legislature by a republican. Hon. Joseph A. Edwards, of Iowa City, made a most remarkable run for the office last fall, winning the election by his popularity as a citizen and his ability as a politician. He was born in Putnam county, Ill., and spent his early years on the farm with his father, who settled there about the time of the Black Hawk war. Early in 1864, while a mere youth, the subject of this sketch enlisted in the army and served his country as a private soldier until near the close of the war. After leaving the army Mr. Edwards was a student in the State University of Illinois. When he removed to Iowa he entered the State university, and was graduated from the law department in 1873. He was a classmate of Chancellor Emlin McClain. He commenced the practice of law immediately after his graduation and has been a hard worker, a close student and a successful lawyer since that time. Mr. Edwards is thoroughly familiar with public affairs and with the work of legislation, and will take his place in the front ranks with the house members. He is a liberal, progressive, broad-minded man, a man who is in harmony with the majority of his fellow citizens in all matters. His victory was a notable one in Johnson county. His family consists of himself and daughter, Miss Anne Edwards, a charming young lady well known in the social circles of Des Moines, where she has frequently visited in the best families of this city. Miss Edwards is a popular student of the State university, and is now in the junior year of the course. Mr. Edwards will have much influence for his county in legislation this winter, as he is in perfect harmony, in legislative matters, with the senator from that district.