J. M. Pieffer is one of the leading merchants of Panama. He keeps a general stock of hardware and jewelry, carrying a stock of $2,500. He has been in this business since February, 1888, having bought out Nelson Swenning. He had bought out L. M. Eby, who had established the business in 1881. Mr. Pieffer is a native of Shelby County, Iowa, born March 15, 1859. He is a son of Benjamin and Elmira (Kauble) Pieffer, who are the parents of five children - Hattie, the wife of Caleb Smith; Benjamin F., J. M., Fannie E., the wife of F. J. Swenning, and William H. Benjamin Pieffer, Sr., came from Pennsylvania to Kanesville, now Council Bluffs, Iowa, in 1852. He remained there but a short time, and then came to Monroe Township, Shelby County, and entered fifty-nine acres of land from the government, which he still makes his home. He has made additional purchases until he now owns 290 acres, all under cultivation. He carried on general farming and stock-raising until he retired from active business. He and his wife are natives of the State of Pennsylvania. Mr. Pieffer was born September 5, 1823, and Mrs. Pieffer was born May, 1824. Both are of German descent. J. M. Pieffer remained with his parents until he was nineteen years old, assisting with the work on the home farm. He then engaged in farming for himself, and continued that occupation until he bought his present business.