Iowa County History and Genealogy Books Online
These are free books online where you can research your Iowa ancestry. This list contains county and local history, genealogical and biographical books, as well as atlases and farm plats.
Polk County IA
Iowa Atlases, Farm Directories, and Plat Books
This collection contains digital atlases, farm directories, and plat books for all 99 Iowa counties. We have collated these from a variety of online sources, and provide them here as a single source for all online Iowa County Atlases, Farm Directories, and Plat Books.
Biography of Robert Bruce Spilman
Judge Robert Bruce Spilman, born in 1840 in Indiana, was a distinguished figure in Riley County, Kansas. A graduate of Wabash College, he served as a captain in the Civil War before embarking on a legal career in Manhattan. Spilman held various positions including county attorney, mayor, and, notably, the first judge of the Twenty-first Judicial District. His reputation for impartiality and integrity left a lasting impact on the community. Spilman was married to Hannah Russell and they had six children, instilling their values in the next generation.
Biography of James W. Shankland, M. D.
Dr. James W. Shankland, born April 4, 1867, in Ohio, is a distinguished surgeon practicing in St. Louis. He served as surgical chief at the Embarkation Hospital during World War I and has contributed significantly to the medical field through his work and publications. Educated at the University of Minnesota and St. Louis University, he previously worked in dentistry. He is affiliated with professional organizations and has held various positions in the medical community. Dr. Shankland is married and has one son, and he is active in civic and fraternal organizations.
Biography of Joseph S. Homan, M.D.
Dr. Joseph S. Homan, born in January 1882 in Buchanan County, Missouri, is a distinguished physician and surgeon in St. Louis. He graduated from St. Louis University in 1917 after completing studies at Missouri State University and served as an army lieutenant during World War I. With a strong background in teaching and extensive professional affiliations, he has maintained a successful medical practice. Dr. Homan is married to Fannie Pearson, with whom he has a daughter. He balances his career with interests in outdoor activities and independent political views.
Biography of Hon. Simeon W. Bunch
Hon. Simeon W. Bunch, born in 1832 in Simpson County, Kentucky, is a prominent farmer and community leader in Christian County, Missouri. The youngest of five siblings, he experienced pioneer life in Taney County and faced significant hardships. Bunch married Martha Jackson in 1855 and had eleven children. He engaged in various agricultural endeavors and served in several local government positions, including county assessor and state legislator. A staunch Union supporter during the Civil War, he remains active in the Missionary Baptist Church and the Masonic community.
Biography of Alphius Lamont Hamilton
Alphius Lamont Hamilton, born on March 4, 1850, in Pennsylvania, has dedicated 45 years to law, public office, and civic engagement in El Dorado, Kansas. A prominent figure in the Kansas bar, he established a successful legal practice after studying under notable figures. His ancestry includes members who served in key American conflicts, reflecting a deep-rooted commitment to public service. Hamilton has also been active in the Republican Party, serving as Butler County attorney and briefly as a district judge, prioritizing his career as a lawyer.
Biography of Irvin F. Benest
Irvin F. Benest was born on October 24, 1876, in Greenwood County, Kansas, amid a period of hardship characterized by financial panic and natural disasters. His family, originally from France and later Iowa, settled in Kansas during the challenging early years of settlement. Educated in Severy and Des Moines, he became a lawyer, eventually serving as the president of the Greenwood County Bank. Active in local politics and community organizations, Benest also cultivated a successful farming business, marrying Maude E. Girard and having four children.
Biography of James B. Roberts, M. D.
Dr. James B. Roberts, born in 1857 in Indiana, was a prominent physician and surgeon in Kansas, particularly in Goff, Nemaha County. The youngest of four siblings, he faced early loss when his father died. After various experiences, including teaching and mining, he pursued medicine, graduating from the Eclectic Medical University in 1891. He practiced in several Kansas towns before settling in Goff. A community leader involved in local organizations, he married Belle Branson and had three children, establishing a lasting legacy.
Biography of John L. Weaver
John L. Weaver, currently the adjutant-general of Idaho, has had a distinguished career in both the Christian ministry and public service. Born on May 26, 1856, in Indiana, he was educated in local colleges before practicing law. After his ordination in 1890, Weaver served various congregations, ultimately moving to Boise. He initially supported the Republican Party but shifted allegiance to the Democrats, advocating for W. J. Bryan in 1896. Appointed adjutant-general in 1898, he oversees Idaho’s military forces and is respected for his commitment to duty and civic responsibility. Weaver married Ida M. Jayne and has three daughters.
Biography of Robert V. Cozier
Hon. Robert V. Cozier, a significant legal and political figure from Idaho, was born on October 20, 1867, in Wapakoneta, Ohio. A graduate of Simpson College, he became a prominent attorney after settling in Idaho in 1891. Cozier’s contributions to legislation and public welfare are noted, especially during his tenure as a member of the state assembly and as Speaker of the House. Appointed United States attorney by President McKinley in 1897, he is recognized for his legal acumen and commitment to the Republican Party. Cozier is a family man, married to Lena M. Fife, with three children.
Biography of Joel M. Walker
Captain Joel M. Walker, born in Ohio in 1835, is recognized as a distinguished citizen and influential leader in Idaho. A Civil War veteran, he served notably in the Twenty-third Iowa Volunteers and later held various public and business roles, including U.S. Marshal for Iowa. Walker contributed significantly to the development of Kendrick, where he founded the local bank. A devoted family man, he married twice and raised several children. His civic contributions reflect his commitment to the Democratic Party and community affairs in Idaho.
Biography of Edwin J. Moffitt, M. D.
Edwin J. Moffitt, M.D., a respected physician and surgeon in Manhattan, has dedicated over fifteen years to his practice. Born on May 23, 1872, in Jesup, Iowa, he comes from a lineage of strong community service, with both parents involved in significant professions. He graduated from Drake University in 1896 and has continuously expanded his medical education. After marrying May Murphey, he moved to Manhattan in 1901, where he has built a successful career, holding numerous professional memberships and community roles. They have three daughters.
Biography of Orion Littell Rider
Orion Littell Rider, born on January 7, 1874, in Mason County, Illinois, was a prominent attorney in Vinita. A Grinnell College graduate, he pursued law at Drake University, becoming valedictorian. His legal career included roles as assistant U.S. district attorney and counsel in Alaska. Rider served as Vinita’s mayor and was active in the Rotary Club, American Legion, and fraternal organizations. A U.S. Army veteran, Rider’s commitment to public service and community well-being has established him as a respected figure in Vinita.
Brewer, Harry P. – Obituary
Harry P. Brewer, 80, of Greeley, passed away on December 19, 1987, at Fort Collins Health Care Center. Born in Oskaloosa, Iowa, he served in the U.S. Navy during World War II before founding KUAD in Windsor. He was married twice, first to Hazel Lee and later to Fern Lakey. Brewer was active in various organizations, including the VFW and American Legion. He is survived by his wife, children, and numerous grandchildren. Services are scheduled for December 23, 1987.
Armon, Samuel D.
Samuel D. Armon, a retired farmer and logger from Wallowa, Oregon, passed away on September 12, 1975, at Wallowa Memorial Hospital after a period of declining health. Born on July 31, 1888, in Iowa, he moved to Wallowa County in 1906. He married Melvina Mae Lortie in 1911, who predeceased him in August 1975. He is survived by one son, three daughters, 15 grandchildren, and 23 great-grandchildren. Memorial services were held at the Wallowa Christian Church, with interment at Bramlet Memorial Cemetery.
Biography of Byron Judd, Hon.
Hon. Byron Judd settled in Wyandotte, Kansas, in 1857, contributing significantly to the growth of the community. Born in Massachusetts in 1824, he was educated at the Massachusetts State Normal School and initially worked as a teacher. After moving west, he became a prominent banker and politician, serving in various capacities, including mayor and state senator. A member of the Democratic Party, Judd was known for his character and commitment to justice. He passed away in 1909, leaving a lasting legacy in Kansas City.