Born in Brookfield, Vermont, July 4, 1835, and when about fifteen years of age moved to Winnebago County, Illinois, where he resided until 1854. He received a liberal education in his youth. His occupation was that of a farmer until 1854, when he moved to the gold fields of California, where he was engaged in mining about three years, when he returned to this county and made his home with his parents, who came here a few years previous. He purchased a farm of 120 acres, then spent one year in Kansas, then returned to this county, and was married in 1860, to Miss Emma L. Chapman, a daughter of the Reverend A.D. Chapman, of this county. He was elected member of the Legislature during the Fourteenth General Assembly. Was the first postmaster in Malcom; also the first justice of the peace. Was frequently appointed delegate to State and county conventions. Himself and wife are active members of the Presbyterian Church.