Born in Perry County, Pennsylvania, December 3, 1844. Two years later his parents removed to Philadelphia where they resided until 1860, and then removed to Scott County, Iowa. It was there he enlisted in Co. G. Iowa Volunteers and served three years. After leaving the army he attended a business college at Pittsburgh, PA., and in 1869 came to Carroll County, Iowa. In 1873 he was united in marriage to Ruth O. Johnson. He located on a farm in Richland Township which he worked for several years, being appointed county auditor and then removing to Carroll. He was later elected and served as auditor in 1872-73, and as county treasurer in 1874-75. He served on the board of supervisors in 1877-78 and 79, being chairman during the latter year. In 1885, he was elected to the legislature from this county, serving one term. He served on the city council and was treasurer of the Independent School District of Carroll.