A native of New York , having been born in that State September 23rd, 1811 . After living at home until he was twelve years of age Abram decided on leaving home to seek his own fortune. He did not leave the vicinity of his old home immediately, however, but hired to the neighboring farmers, earning enough to supply his wants and save a little for a rainy day. In 1831 he left the State of New York and went to Michigan where he enlisted in the Black Hawk war as a private and after receiving his discharge returned and was united in marriage November 20th, 1833, to Miss Mary A. Eaton, by whom he had ten children: Shortly after marriage Mr. and Mrs. Tompkins wisely came to the conclusion that the advantages enjoyed in that State was not such as they desired and therefore determined to seek a home and fortune in a better country where the advantages would be greater. They came to this Tama County in the year 1853, when all was a blank wilderness. Abram Tompkins is a good friend and neighbor, living at peace with all men and a hard working farmer. In 1859 Mr. Tompkins received the nomination for Representative in the Iowa Legislature and was triumphant. In this capacity he served his constituents in a faithful manner, attending closely to the business for which he was elected and afterwards retired from office bearing the laurels that none but the faithful can bear.