A native of Sweden, an honest industrious self-made man is the Hon. Samuel Burnquist, member of the House from Webster county. He was born in Westerjutland, Sweden, September 16, 1819. His parents were very poor, so the only education he received was much as the church gave him. In 1861 in company with his brother, John, he left the old home and came to America, landing in Andover, Illinois. The following year they sent for their parents and in 1868 they removed to Iowa. Eighty acres of land in Webster county and teams were purchased, all working for the common purpose of paying for them. In this they were successful after several years of hard work. He next turned his attention to breaking prairie, where he got his first substantial start. In 1875 Sam and John Burnquist traded their farm to A. R. Daughenbaugh for a stock of goods, and since that time Sam's aptitude for business has been shown. Year after year their business been enlarged. Some seven or eight years ago the brothers dissolved partnership, John taking the hardware and Sam the dry goods and groceries. The finest brick block of town was built by him. In public affairs Sam Burnquist has taken a keen interest. For eight years he has served as mayor of Dayton and for six years as one of the township trustees. In 1893 he was brought out for Representative by the Republicans, and although he had a strong competitor he was triumphantly elected. He is known as a kind hearted industrious man, one whom all friends delight to honor.