Attorney-at-law, Charter Oak, Iowa, Crawford County, was born in Nova Scotia on October 27, 1863, son of Simeon and Margaret (McInhae) Harding. His parents were descended from English and Scotch ancestors, and immigrated to Shelburne County, Nova Scotia. Young Harding was reared and educated in his native country, completing his studies at Wolfville College. Prior to entering college, he taught school to earn money to use to complete his education. In 1883, he began the study of law under the instructions of F. B. Wade of Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, and he remained with him until 1887. Mr. Harding dates his arrival in Charter Oak, Iowa, in August 1888, and upon his arrival here, his only capital was his pluck and determination to succeed in life. Being a foreigner, he was obliged to remain in this country 2 years before he could be admitted to the bar. October 8, 1890, he was admitted at Des Moines to practice in all the courts of the state, he being next to the best in a class of 24 applicants. Mr. Harding made his first appearance before the Crawford District Court in the somewhat famous "Hog Cases" of Rose vs. Kronke Brothers. Mr. Harding married December 24, 1890, to Miss Maggie M. Kevan of Dow City, Iowa, daughter of Charles and Jane Kevan of Scotch ancestry. Maggie had been engaged in teaching at Dow City, occupying next to the highest position in the schools there. She then devoted herself to the study of law in her husband's office and became engaged in practice with him. In January 1893, Mrs. Harding appeared before the Supreme Court of Iowa for admission to the bar with 10 male applicants. She ranked second in the class. She was the first lady in the state to pass the required examination and win a diploma.