E.R. Kirk, postmaster, was born in Ottawa County, Ohio., in 1834; came to Sioux City in 1856, and in the following year engaged in the mercantile business, which business he continued until 1873; then held the office of deputy county treasurer; was appointed deputy collector of internal revenue in 1876, and was appointed postmaster in 1878. Mr. Kirk was married in 1859 to Mary P. Sawyers, and has five children-W.A., E.L., Charles, Frank and Mamie. W. A. Kirk, is deputy P.M., and E.L. Kirk is delivery clerk.