Farmer in Villisca was born April 22, 1813, in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, in which county he received his education, and learned the trade of a boot and shoe maker. Until 1855 he followed his trade, but at that time commenced farming. He came to Iowa in 1857. In August, 1861, he enlisted in company K, Fourth Iowa infantry, and upon the organization of the company was chosen captain. He was in the battles of Pea Ridge, Chickasaw Bayou, Arkansas Post, Jackson and Vicksburg. He resigned in August 1863. Mr. Cramer was married in 1834, to Miss Mary Lytle, a native of Pennsylvania, by whom he has five children. In 1871 Major Cramer was elected representative of his district in the Twelfth Iowa General Assembly, which office he filled to the complete satisfaction of his constituency.