Born November 15, 1811. On January 1, 1840 Mr. Bell and Miss Sarah Stewart Reigell were united in marriage in Ft. Madison. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Bell remained in Ft. Madison until the following year, then returned to Ennisville, Pa., where Mr. Bell engaged in mercantile pursuits for seven years. During this time the country lying around the tract of land which he had purchased in Iowa was being slowly improved and developed, and in 1848, having sold his business in Ennisville Mr. Bell resolved to return to Iowa and settle upon his claim. Accordingly, accompanied by his family, he once more came into Lee County and made preparations for the establishment, of a permanent home. Mr. Bell was successful in his farming operations, and added to his first purchase as time passed by. Mr. Bell was a man highly esteemed in his community, and always ready to assist in the promotion of every worthy object. His judgment and opinions were eagerly sought, and his advice considered safe to follow, he was decided in his views, but firm and temperate in the expression of them, and made no enemies of those who differed from him in opinion. He held the various offices of his township, and in 1870 represented his county in the Iowa Legislature. During his early manhood he belonged to the Whig party, but latterly affiliated with time Democracy.