ISAAC F. S. NELSON

From the 1887 History of Vernon County, Missouri, p. 676-677:

Isaac F. S. Nelson

(Of Nelson & Jones, Dealers in Groceries and Provisions, Nevada).

   The life history of the subject of this sketch is not unfamiliar to most of the readers of the present volume, for besides having been born in this county the greater part of his career has been passed here, where he has become substantially known and respected, both as a citizen and business man.  His birth occurred August 19, 1850, the second child now living of his parents’ family of four children, the others being Oscar M., now deceased, who at one time served as sheriff of this county; John H., also deceased, and Julia R., wife of Frank P. Anderson.  The father, Albert Fountain Nelson, who was born in Stokes county, N. C., September 14, 1815, was a man of more than ordinary ability and prominence, and is deserving of special mention in this connection.  After growing up in his native State he married December 1, 1836, Miss Susan P. Stone, of the same county as himself, her birth having occurred April 4, 1818.  Following this some time Mr. Nelson became prominently associated with the political movements of North Carolina, and among other positions which he filled was that of legislator from his district.  In 1841 he moved with his young wife to Vernon county, Mo., choosing a location near Balltown, where he lived a respected life until his death January 29, 1852.  He was known over a wide scope of country hereabouts, and once held the office of county judge.  At the time of his death he was a member of the Masonic fraternity.  Isaac F. S. Nelson naturally was reared as a farmer’s boy, but in 1872 he engaged in the livery business and continued it three years.  Accepting an offer in St. Louis as treasurer of the Union Depot Street Railway line he went to that city, but two years later relinquished that position and returned to Nevada, where he has since been occupied in the grocery trade.  As stated elsewhere his present partnership with Mr. Jones was formed early in 1885, and until the present the firm of Nelson & Jones has enjoyed a full share of the grocery trade at this place.  Carrying a large and well selected stock, they do an exclusive cash business, a departure which is fully appreciated by their patrons.  And the fact that success has attended their efforts is due largely to the personal caution and care exercised by Mr. N., in connection with Mr. Jones, in the management of their business.  Mr. Nelson’s wife was formerly Miss Alice Pottorff, of Audrain county, Mo., whom he married in October 1871.  They have two children:  Guy F., and Harry P.  Mr. Nelson is a member of the A.O. U. W. and K. of P.  He is now serving his third term as a member of the city council.

[Transcribed by Julia Brown ]

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