"Phil" Schaller, as he was commonly known to his comrades, was of German nativity, but was quite as loyal to the Union Army and to the Grand Army of the Republic as were his native born comrades.  Born in the Fatherland on January 6, 1838, he came to America at an early age and in May, 1859, became a naturalized citizen.

He was a sergeant in Company E., Twenty seventh Iowa Volunteer Infantry where he served until the close of the war.  When he was mustered from service he returned to his former home in Clayton County.  In 1872, however, he moved to Sac County and became one of the prominent and substantial businessmen of Sac City.  He served on the board of supervisors of Sac County, was county treasurer for eight years, was a member of the Twenty first General Assembly, and served for two terms as Mayor of Sac City.

Mr. Schaller was for many years active and zealous in promoting the interest of the Grand Army of the Republic.  He was the "dominating spirit" of the local Post at Sac City, and in 1893 became Department Commander -- an office to which he gave much time and valuable service.

Throughout his long career Mr. Schaller was known for his philanthropic spirit, and his willingness to aid a comrade in need.  He died at his home in Earlville, on June 21, 1912, at the age of seventy three.