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.
Born 1823, Bedford county
From History of Johnson County, Iowa, containing a history of the county, and its townships, cities and villages from 1836 to 1882. Together with biographical sketches .. (1883)
JOHN A. ANDERSON, (deceased); was born in Bedford county, Pennsylvania, December 16, 1823; was the son of Samuel Anderson. He learned the carpenter trade, and worked at that and cabinet making. While in Pennsylvania, June 22, 1845, he was married to Miss Catharine Hoover, daughter of John and Anna Hoover. To them have been born six children, four of whom are living: Ann, George, Joseph W., and Susan J. In 1853 he came to Iowa, and settled in Johnson county. He worked at his trade for ten years; from that time up to his death farmer most of the time, working some at his trade. He died May 3, 1879, aged 55 years, 4 months, and 7 days. Mr. Anderson was a faithful member of the Church of God; served as deacon several years; filled the office of county supervisor, township trustee, and other offices of trust. His widow resides in the old homestead, with her son Joseph.
As printed in History of Johnson County, Iowa, containing a history of the county, and its townships, cities and villages from 1836 to 1882. Together with biographical sketches .. (1883). See the original pages. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.
Their biographies name John A. Anderson: Martin E. Lininger (b. 1855)
The printed record stops around 1883. We trace your line from there down to you, with every source cited.