Joseph M. Kearns

As printed in 1911

JOSEPH M. KEARNS

To the operation of the old homestead farm, comprising one hundred forty-two and one-half acres of land in Linn township, Joseph M. Kearns is devoting his time and attention. He was born on this farm July 2, 1SS0, the youngest of eight children, whose parents are Valentine and Ella (Erion) Kearns, who were natives of Ohio. In 1853 the family sought a home in the middle west, making a location in Linn county. Iowa. At that time the country was but sparsely settled and much of the land was still unclaimed. The tract on which Valentine Kearns and his parents took up their above, the grandfather entered from the government and his first work was to prepare a little home for his family, which was a crude dwelling built of logs. In this they lived for several year's but as soon as circumstances would permit the log cabin was replaced by a more modern frame structure, which is still standing on the place. The father of our subject made many other improvements on the place and placed the land under a high state of cultivation. He engaged in farming throughout his active business career but in 1909 put aside this work and removed to Marion, where he has since lived retired, enjoying in comfort and ease the fruits of his former toil. Unto him and his wife were born eight children, as follows: Carl E., Clvde W., Grace E., William E., Arthur R,, Mabel L, Ruth O. and Joseph M., of this review.

The last named acquired his education in the common schools and early became familiar with the work of plowing, planting and harvesting, heavier tasks being assigned him as his age and strength increased. lie remained at home until twenty-two years of age, after which he was employed for one year at farm labor. He then took a course in stenography and, seeking employment along that line of activity, was in the service of the Chicago. Rock Island & Pacific Railroad Company at Cedar Rapids for three years. However, farming seemed to appeal more strongly to his taste and on the expiration of that period he returned to the old homestead, since which time he has been operating the place. He is working diligently in the conduct, of his business affairs and his labors are being rewarded with good returns.

Mr. Kearns completed arrangements for having a home of his own by his marriage on the 23d of October, 1907, to Miss Margaret McBride. a daughter of John and Jemima (Kerr) McBride, natives of the Buckeye state, in whose family were six children, all living, namely: Amanda, George. Alice, Mary, Margaret, now Mrs. Kcams. and Anna. A little daughter, Margaret Isabel, graces the home of Mr. and Mrs. Kearns. Her birth occurred October 22, 190S.

In his political views Mr. Kearns is a republican but does not care for public office. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Presbyterian church. The spirit of self-help is the source of all genuine worth in the individual and this truth is abundantly verified in the life of Mr. Kearns. Steadily pursuing his way undeterred by the obstacles and difficulties in his path, he is achieving a prosperity of which he has every reason to be proud.

As printed in History of Linn County Iowa : from its earliest settlement to the present time (1911). See the original pages. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.