PREFACE.

IN the preparation of this volume the publishers have endeavored to give a clear and concise statement of historical facts, and as well to sketch in fitting terms the wonderful growth, development and possibilities of this highly favored region; for not only are the residents of Sioux City and vicinity interested in its past history, but its glowing prospects for the future are attracting the marked attention of people in every section of the country.

An earnest effort has been made to treat with accuracy all matters touched upon, and no expense has been spared to render the book attractive, and to more than fulfill the promises made in the prospectus. It is fortunate indeed, that many of the facts of history, which are here recorded, have been rescued from oblivion, by being placed in enduring form before the early settlers have passed away.

With the exception of the chapters hereafter mentioned, which were written by citizens, who, from their long residence, special knowledge of the subjects, and official positions, were exceptionally qualified for the work done, the historical part of the work for both counties (including the early history of Sioux City, and its present interests-commercial, social and religious), and the matter relating to the formation and settlement of the townships in Plymouth county, were written by Mr. W. L. Clark; the chapters on the origin and formation of the townships in Woodbury county, and the sketches of the towns and.villages therein, were furnished by Mr. J. E. Norris. The local writers and the chapters written by them are as follows:

PROF. J. C. C. HOSKINS, Chapter II, Woodbury county, Topography and Geology (of the two counties).

PROF. J. S. SHOUP, Chapter VII, Woodbury county, Educational Interests.

HON. W. L. JOY, Chapter X, Woodbury county, Bench and Bar.

IV

PREFACE.

PROF. J. WERNLI, Chapter VI, Plymouth county, Education.
HON. H. 0. OUR TIS, Chapter IX, Plymouth county, Bench and Bar.
The publishers wish to acknowledge their obligations to all who have assisted those engaged in the preparation of the work, among whom may be mentioned the editors of the leading journals throughout the district embraced, the county and city officials, the clergy, the officers and members of the various societies, the managers of the numerous industrial enterprises, and many others. We have been allowed to present some interesting facts taken from A. E. SHEETZ'S Centennial History, and are under special obligations to DR. WILLIAM R. SMITH and the HON. D. M. MILLS for many favors shown, and much information given.

The biographical sketches were so numerous that it has necessitated as brief treatment as the circumstances would warrant, and the publishers have been compelled to depend mainly upon the members of the respective families for the reliability of the facts set forth. No pains have been spared to make this department accurate, and it is believed that it constitutes an interesting portion of the work, and that it will increase in value with the lapse of time.

Trusting that the volume will prove satisfactory to its readers, it is submitted to their considerate judgment.

Chicago, July, 1891.
THE PUBLISHERS.