Root, Joseph C
author, and founder of Woodcraft, was born Dec. 3, 1844, in Chester, Mass. When ten years of age his parents removed to Lyons, Iowa. He received a liberal education; began business for himself in a book-store; afterward operated flouring mills and elevators; and was United States deputy collector when barely of age. In 1860 he founded the public library of Lyons, Iowa; was admitted to the bar in 1879, and founded Woodcraft and promulgated its rituals and teachings in 1883. He has been twice mayor of Lyons, Iowa; has been prominently identified in various business enterprises; proposed and agitated the construction of the Iowa Midland railway; and is the secretary of the Chicago, Lyons and Pacific railway.
He established the first telephone exchange west of the Mississippi river; has been editor of two newspapers of extended circulation; and is the author of several books. He is the sovereign commander of the Woodmen of the World, and resides at Omaha, Neb. The entire system now embraces half a million members, has disbursed many millions of dollars, and is increasing rapidly.