Came to Waterloo in the spring of 1866, and began the practice of law here. He had been admitted to the bar, but his first work in the profession was done in this city. A few years later J. C. Elwell became associated with him, and the partnership continued until 1879, when Mr. Elwell retired. January 1, 1881, J C. Gates entered the firm and the partnership continued till terminated by Mr. Alford's death. Mr. Alford took an active part in politics and all matters of a public nature. He was elected representative to the general assembly from this county in 1877, and was a member of the 17th and 18th general assemblies, 1878 and 1880. In the 18th general assembly Mr. Alford was chosen speaker of the house, and at that time achieved a state wide reputation as a parliamentarian. He was also very prominent in his profession, and was widely known through his connection with the cases brought against the Citizen's Mutual Insurance Co., of this city. Mr. Alford was married March 29, 1871, at Chicago, to Miss Lilla St. John. In social circles Mr. Alford and his family have always been prominent and their home was always noted for its cheering hospitality.

Came to Waterloo in the spring of 1866, and began the practice of law here. He had been admitted to the bar, but his first work in the profession was done in this city. A few years later J. C. Elwell became associated with him, and the partnership continued until 1879, when Mr. Elwell retired. January 1, 1881, J C. Gates entered the firm and the partnership continued till terminated by Mr. Alford's death. Mr. Alford took an active part in politics and all matters of a public nature. He was elected representative to the general assembly from this county in 1877, and was a member of the 17th and 18th general assemblies, 1878 and 1880. In the 18th general assembly Mr. Alford was chosen speaker of the house, and at that time achieved a state wide reputation as a parliamentarian. He was also very prominent in his profession, and was widely known through his connection with the cases brought against the Citizen's Mutual Insurance Co., of this city. Mr. Alford was married March 29, 1871, at Chicago, to Miss Lilla St. John. In social circles Mr. Alford and his family have always been prominent and their home was always noted for its cheering hospitality.