Biographical Sketch of

John Edwards

Transcribed by Sandy Boudrou



Source: Portrait and Biographical Album of Green Lake, Marquette and Waushara Counties, Wisconsin, 
published 1890 by Acme Publishing Co., Chicago, Page 551 


John N. Edwards, a manufacturer of and dealer in harness and saddlery, of Wautoma, Wis., established his 
present business in 1873.  He was born in the town of Troy, Lorain Co., Ohio, July 14, 1844, and is a son 
of Elbert M. and Eliza A. (Naylor) Edwards, the former a native of New Jersey, the latter of Pennsylvania.  
They were married in the Keystone State, where four of their six children were born.  Those still living 
are Kate L., widow of William Lockerby, of Wautoma; Annie A. Altenburg, of Portage County, Wis.; William A. 
and John N.  The family came to Waushara County in July, 1855, and since that time the name of Edwards has 
found prominent mention in the annals of the county.  The father was a blacksmith by trade and followed that 
occupation for a livelihood until his emigration to the West, when he purchased a farm and engaged in its 
cultivation until his death in 1882.  He died in the faith of the Baptist Church, and his wife, who still 
survives him and resides in Wautoma, is also a devoted member of that denomination.
 
The subject of this sketch remained in his native county until eleven years of age, and began his school life 
in its district schools, but completed his education in Waushara County, where the greater part of his life 
has been spent.  The usual work of a farmer lad occupied his time, and his attention was attracted by their 
amusements until at length, on nearing the years of maturity, he looked about him for some occupation or 
profession which he wished to follow.  The harness-maker's trade was his choice, and in 1863 he began learning 
that business with his brother, with whom he served an apprenticeship of two years.  At the end of that time 
he went to Stevens' Point, where he completed his trade, and in 1866 he returned and bought a half interest 
in a shop in Wautoma, where he carried on business until 1869.  Selling out, he followed various occupations 
until 1873, when as before stated , he established his present business.
 
On the 16th of April, 1877, Mr. Edwards was united in marriage with Miss Chloe J. Newby, a native of Portage 
County, Wis.  Their union has been blessed with three children--Ward F., Frances E. and John N. Jr.
 
For thirty-four years Mr. Edwards has been a resident of Waushara County, and by an upright life has won the 
confidence of the public.  As he thoroughly understands his business and is courteous in manner, he has received 
a liberal patronage.  His stock embraces all kinds of harness, oils, carriage paints, trunks, valises, and 
everything found in a first-class establishment of its kind.  The repair shop is also an important branch and 
a fruitful source of income to its owner, who is regarded as one of the leading business men of Wautoma.  In 
the social world, Mr. Edwards and his wife occupy a prominent place, and both are members of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church, in which they are active workers, the husband having been Secretary, Treasurer and Class 
Leader for many years.






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