Biographical Sketch of Henry K. Ferguson

Henry and Eliza Jane (Anspach) Ferguson settled in Silver Creek Township in 1874, acquiring land before the arrival of the railroad in 1877. Facing challenges such as the absence of doctors and banks in Ida County, they transported goods by team to distant trading points. Henry constructed their home using lumber from Storm Lake, navigating the untamed prairie without roads. The couple endured hardships, including the devastating 1876 grasshopper invasion that threatened their crops, but persevered, raising their daughter Velma in this harsh environment.

Biography of Alytte R. Dunn

Alytte R. Dunn, known as Ale, was a prominent farmer and stock-raiser in Ida County, Iowa. Born in 1854 in Scott County, IA, he settled in Logan township after acquiring land in the late 1870s and married Cora Andre in 1877. Dunn diligently improved his farm and participated in local politics as a Republican. Tragically, he was killed by a train on January 17, 1907, while returning from a public sale. His funeral drew a large crowd, reflecting his esteemed status in the community.