Enlisted 6-10-1861 in Co.I, 3rd Iowa Inf. Severely wounded in a battle at Blue Mound, Missouri 9-17-1861. He had a long hospital convalescence and was discharged from military service 12-20-1862. His knee joint was not movable and he was a tall man who walked with a marked limp. After his marriage he lived at Otranto, Iowa. About 1870 he bought a farm near Lyle, Minnesota and moved there. In the 1870 census he was listed as a harness maker. Most of his life he was a farmer.

"He was always ambitious, honest, a good farmer, raised wonderful gardens and kept his farm buildings repaired and painted. He was a Republican. He planted trees and kept them trimmed. Had a weak stomach which bothered him but which he outgrew. He became quite deaf when old. Was very patriotic and always attended Memorial Day programs. Held office: assessor roadmaster member of school board, circuit court. Loved music and played a horn. Welcomed neighbors to a meal or to spend an evening. Celebrated silver wedding anniversary in 1890 and golden anniversary in 1915. One drawback was a very quick temper."

Nancy Jane Williams was born in Muskeego, Wisc. 5-21-1848. She was the daughter of Permilia Purdy and Isaiah Williams. After they retired she and Joseph moved to Mona, Iowa. Burial in Woodbury Cemetary near Lyle, Minn.