In the book's own words, not ours, with obvious scanning errors fixed. Families often supplied these stories to the publisher, so check key dates.
From History of Black Hawk County, Iowa, and its people (1915)
CHARLES A. FERGUSON.
Charles A. Ferguson is one of the native sons of Black Hawk county who has proven his worth in business circles, being now a partner in the Ferguson Manufacturing Company of Waterloo. He was born upon a farm eight miles northwest of the city, on which his parents settled when they took up their above in this county in 1868. Much of his education was acquired in the district schools of Bennmgton township, supplemented by a course in the Waterloo Business College. No event of special importance occurred to vary the routine of farm life for him during the period of his boyhood and youth and almost as soon as old enough to handle a plow he began to work in the fields, assisting also in the planting and harvesting as the years went on. He lived with his mother upon the old homestead until the family came to Waterloo, after which he attended school in this city for about a year.
Mr. Ferguson then entered the factory of the Kelley & Tannehill Company and there remained for about twelve years, working as a machinist and advancing to the position of shop foreman. His skill and ability gradually increased until he was given a position of large responsibility. After twelve years' connection with the house, years in which he enjoyed the full confidence and goodwill of his employers, he resigned his position and joined his brothers in organizing the Ferguson Manufacturing Company for the purpose of manufacturing well drilling machinery and supplies. Charles A. Ferguson is acting as superintendent of the factory, in which they employ about twenty men, and he devotes his entire time to this business. The plant is well supplied with modern machinery needed in their line and Mr. Ferguson's practical experience enables him to carefully direct the labors of those in his employ.
On the 30Lh of June, 1889, occurred the marriage of Mr. Ferguson and Miss Alice Cary, who was born in this county, a daughter of Anthony and Julia (Sheller) Cary, who came to Iowa at an early period in the development of the central section of the state and settled in East Waterloo township, Black Hawk county. The father secured a tract of land and engaged in farming, makmg his home upon the farm until his life's labors were ended in death. His widowafterward removed with her family to W'waterloo, where she passed away in the winter of 191 3. Mr. Cary held various local offices and served on the board of county supervisors. He was well known as a respected and worthy citizen and both he and his wife had many friends in the county.
In politics Mr. Ferguson is an independent democrat. He does not feel that he is bound by party ties and votes as his judgment dictates. He holds membership in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and is a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church. He is now the owner of good city property in Waterloo, including his present residence at No. 1714 Franklin street, where he and his wife delight in extending the hospitality of their home to many friends.
As printed in History of Black Hawk County, Iowa, and its people (1915). See the original pages. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.
The printed record stops around 1915. We trace your line from there down to you, with every source cited.