A native of Crawford County, Pa., and was born March 26. 1814. His father, Patterson Espy, was a native of the same State, and born in Fayette County. He was the third child and eldest son of his parents. He was educated in the common schools and graduated at Prof. Gambel's Academy, at Jamestown, Pa. He taught one term and then went to Franklin, Pa., and entered the law office of Judge Alexander McCalment, where he remained two and a half years, was admitted to the bar, and in due time became the partner of Judge McCalment. He then became convinced that there was a broader field of operations beyond the Mississippi, in which he could accomplish more. He accordingly came into Iowa and spent his first summer at Iowa City. In September of the same year he came to Ft. Madison, opened an office, and continued to build up his practice. He was elected Justice of the Peace in 1884. He has always been deeply interested in educational matters, and has been one of the School Directors of the township. He afterward served as Alderman and Mayor of the city and in 1848 was elected Senator from Lee County. Mr. Espy cast his first Presidential vote for Martin Van Buren, and has been an uncompromising Democrat all his life. He was married, in 1840, to Miss Mary A. McBride, a native of Erie County, Pa. Mr. Espy is a prominent man in his community, one whose judgment is highly valued, and whose opinions are sought upon all important matters concerning the welfare and progress of the community.
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