FRANCIS I. TAYLOR. The town of New Berlin is the seat of several thriving business enterprises, among them being the mercantile establishment of the gentleman above named. Considering the size of the town, it may be called large and is certainly well stocked with a carefully selected assortment of such goods as meet the wants of the citizens in the village, as well as those whose homes are in the surrounding country. The business is conducted with skill, and honorable dealing is accorded to all who patronize the establishment. Mr. Taylor enjoys therefore an extensive trade and the entire confidence of the community.

The subject of this sketch was born in New Berlin Township, July 26, 1857, and is a son of Francis and Henriette (Morehouse) Taylor, the former of whom died December 17, 1888, and the latter February 12, 1863. He received a common school education in the public schools of this county, and in order to better fit himself for business life pursued a commercial course of study in a business college in Burlington, Iowa, one term. Prior to the death of his father he devoted himself to the management of his farm interests on the parental estate, which contained over one thousand acres of land.

In 1881 the young man entered into partnership with his father under the firm name of F. Taylor & son, and in 1886 prior to the death of his parent became his successor in conducting a general store. His brother, Albert J., who was born October 7, 1850, is now associated with him in business. The brother pursued his studies in the public schools of the county, then spent a year in Brown's Commercial College of Jacksonville, taking a business course there. The two gentlemen have an extended circle of acquaintances and are favorably regarded for their intelligence, reliability and upright characters. In 1881 our subject was appointed Postmaster of New Berlin, was removed during Cleveland's administration, but re-appointed under President Harrison.

Mr. Taylor was fortunate in winning for his wife Miss Minnie Y. Yates, with whom his marriage rites were solemnized June 25, 1884. To Mr. and Mrs. Taylor have been born three children namely, Nellie Y., Frances M. and Harry. Mrs. Taylor was educated, first in the schools of this county and then in Bloomington, where she pursued the higher branches for two years in the Normal School. She is one of the best informed ladies in the community and is possessed of an estimable character. She has been a member of the Baptist Church for fifteen years, while Mr. Taylor has been identified with the Presbyterian Church for ten years past. The principles laid down in the Republican platform find a hearty supporter in Mr. Taylor, who although not a politician is always ready to do what he can to promote the principles of good government.