EARL CAMERON

Chief engineer of the Moline& Rock Island Manufacturing Company, one of the most expert men in his profession in this part of the state, and a very valued member of the official force of his company, was born at Rock Island , February 6, 1876 . He is a son of Allen W., also born at Rock Island , April 3, 1849 , and Nettie (Goff) Cameron, born at Springfield , Ohio , in 1854. The father was a ship carpenter, whose business took him to Beardstown. Ohio , for a year, but he returned to Rock Island . Later he went to La Clair county, Iowa , but after four years, returned again to Rock Island , which has continued to be his home. Both he and his son were born in the same house.

Earl Cameron was educated in the public schools of La Clair, and Rock Island , following which he took a course in engineering with the American Correspondence School. He worked on several farms in Iowa , but his ambition was for a mechanical life. His first position as an engineer was on a Mississippi river boat, where for a year he had charge of an en­gine. He then operated the engine on the ferry boat for three years, and in the fall of 1898, came with the Peoples Power Company, as fireman. Within three months, he was made assistant engineer, and continued as such for four years, when he was placed in charge as chief engineer. He has more than ten engineers and helpers under him, and his position is one entailing grave responsibility, but he is equal to the demands made upon him, as his daily work proves.

On September 17, 1901 , Mr. Cameron was mar­ ried at Rock Island to Olga Swanson, born at Rock Island , July 31, 1881, daughter of Gustave and Anna Swanson, both of whom died in this city. Mr. Swanson was a carpenter. Mr. and Mrs. Cameron have had one child—Arthur Paul, born in Rock Island , May 23, 1903 , now attending school. He is a very bright little fellow, who promises to develop into a fine man.

Mr. Cameron is liberal in his religious views. Politically he is a republican, but his public service is confined for the present to casting his vote for the candidates of his party. The family reside in a pleasant home at No. 4526 Seventh avenue , Rock Island . Through earnest endeavor, backed by natural ability, Mr. Cameron has risen to his present position of trust. Not only do his heads rely upon his judgment, but those in his charge know that in him they have a friend, and one who will guard their rights.

 

 

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