Samuel H. Rownd was born on June 3, 1808 in Marcher County, Pennsylvania.  In 1808 his family moved to Barnesville, Ohio, where he spent most of his childhood.  In 1818 Samuel married Miss Eliza Philpot and the newlyweds moved to Summerfield, Ohio.  Following in his father's footsteps Samuel learned the tanners trade.  It was in Ohio Samuel got involved in the Underground Railroad, helping fleeing slaves to freedom.  In 1850 Samuel visited what is now Cedar Falls and began buying land.  In 1859 he had accumulated 4,000 acres, and moved his family to Cedar Falls.  Samuel is described as an outstanding citizen and very generous with his money.  He contributed several thousand dollars to many needy organizations in Cedar Falls, and was an active member at the Methodist Episcopal Church.  He served on the Board of Supervisors and as a School Director.