Jesse Dodds Biography >From "History of Davenport and Scott County" Vol. II by Harry E. Downer-S. J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1910 Chicago. Surnames: Dodds, Blackman, Kramer, Rackster, Shutter, Voteman For the past ten years Jesse Dodds has lived in honorable retirement in a nice home in Davenport, being numbered among the highly respected pioneer settlers of Scott county. He is a native of Butler county, Pennsylvania, born August 4, 1834, of the marriage of James and Ellen (Sproll) Dodds. The father was a tanner by trade and also engaged in farming in the Keystone state. Jesse Dodds acquired his education in the schools of his native state and was reared there to the age of nineteen, when he sought a home farther west. Coming to Scott county in 1855, he engaged in the livery business in LeClaire, while later he went to Pleasant Valley, where he was employed in a flour mill about seven years. He then spent some time at Pikes Peak, Colorado, but on his return to Davenport took up farming, which he followed throughout the remainder of his business career. He eventually became the owner of one hundred acres of land in Pleasant Valley township, situated on the river road about eight miles east of the city. Mr. Dodds devoted much of his land to the raising of onions and this proved a very successful venture. He also raised considerable stock and devoted some of his time to general farming. About ten years ago he put aside all business cares and purchased residence property in Davenport, to which he removed, and he has since made this his home. He! still retains possession of his farming property, which he rents. Mr. Dodds was married on the 31st of December, 1859, to Miss Ruby Blackman, a daughter of Louis and Jane Blackman. She was born November 27, 1839, and died November 10, 1901. She was a most estimable lady and an active and faithful worker in the work of the Baptist church and Sunday school. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Dodds were born seven children, three daughters and four sons, as follows: Jennie, the wife of Al Kramer and the mother of three children; Harry, who wedded Miss Sarah Rackster, by whom he has eight children; Jessie, the wife of F. S. Shutter and the mother of three children; Fred, who resides at home; Charles; Hattie, the wife of William Voteman; and Louis who has passed away. A republican in his political belief, Mr. Dodds, formerly took an active part in public affairs. While living on the farm he filled various township offices and the cause of education has ever been one of deep interest to him. He was also connected with the postoffice department at Davenport for seven years but is now living free from all business cares with the exception of looking after the rental of his farm. He thoroughly enjoys home life and takes great pleasure in the society of his family and a friends. He is always courteous and affable and those who know him personally have for him warm regard. His life is exemplary in all respects and he has ever supported those interests which are calculated to uplift and benefit humanity, while his own high moral worth is deserving of highest commendation. ~~~~~~*~~~~~~ Elaine Rathmann ACC Scott Co, IA USGenWeb Project List Adm: *IA-CIVIL-WAR *IA-DANES