1891 HISTORY OF CLARK & JACKSON CO., WI, pg. 183-184

ROBERT W. CANFIELD, a farmer and bridge contractor of Clark County, Wisconsin, was born in Wellsville, New York, September 4, 1853. His parents, Leonard and Delilah Canfield, were also natives of that State. His father died there in 1878, and his mother still makes her home in New York. Robert received his education in Wellsville, and held a certificate to teach, though he never followed that profession. At the age of seventeen he began to work for himself, receiving 11 per month, and the first year he saved 90. For about two years he worked in Pennsylvania, and followed teaming for a time. For a while he was employed as a clerk in a store at Wellsville, New York, where he acquired a knowledge of mercantile business.

In 1876 Mr. Canfield located in Wisconsin, at Neillsville, and for three winters worked in the woods. He also learned the carpenter's trade after coming to this State. After working at it a short time he turned his attention to contracting for bridgework, and has been very successful in his undertakings. By economy and good management he save up 1000 before he married. The date of his marriage was September 7, 1879, and the lady of his choice Ida Preshure. Her father was one of the first settlers of Wisconsin. Mr. Canfield moved to his present location in 1880. He owns some 350 acres of good land, partly on section 1, Levis Township, which is well improved. He has been School Clerk for four years. Mr. Canfield is a believer in a tariff for revenue only is a Democrat and the nominee of the party for Clerk at the last election.