E. T. Harper, of Benton township, well known in Butler county as a successful farmer and stock breeder, is a native son of this county. He was born in Benton township in 1876, and is a son of Dr. L. A. and M. L. (Nelson) Harper. The mother was a daughter of Edwin and Maria Nelson of Wisconsin, and she was a native of that State.

Dr. L. A. Harper came to Butler county with his parents in 1870, they being among the early settlers of this section. Dr. Harper was born near Hartford, Wis., March 9, 1847, and attended the district and village schools. In early life, he taught school a number of terms, and later took a course in a Milwaukee commercial college. He then attended medical college at Cleveland, Ohio, and prepared himself for the practice of medicine. He came to Butler county with his parents in 1870, and practiced his profession for a number of years, but was compelled to give it up on account of failing health. He was an invalid for

a number of years, and a patient sufferer, who bore his afflictions with fortitude. He died August 10, 1902, and is remembered as a kind friend and good neighbor who always entertained a broad sympathy and kindly feeling for his fellow man.

Dr. Harper and wife were the parents of three children, as follows: E. T., the subject of this sketch; Flora E., Augusta, Kans., and Mrs. Susan M. Snodgrass, Towanda, Kans.

E. T. Harper was reared in Benton township and received a good public school education. Mr. Harper has made farming and stock raising his study and occupation. He specializes in Ayrshire cattle, and is also quite an extensive and successful hog raiser. He owns one of the fine farms of Benton township, and is one of the substantial men of Butler county.

Mr. Harper was married July 3, 1902, to Miss Nellie M. Fuller, a daughter of Milo and Frances Fuller of Andover, Kans. Two children have been born to this union, as follows: Luman M., and Clifford N.

Mr. Harper is a Republican and takes an active interest in local affairs, and the well being of the community. He is especially interested in good schools, and has been a member of the school board for a number of years. He has also been clerk of Benton township.

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