Over 150 Years of Trusted Insurance Experience

The A.C. Root Insurance Agency has been a trusted name in insurance for more than 150 years. Our story begins in 1854, when Aurelius Clark Root moved from New England to the growing community of Lyons—later incorporated into Clinton, Iowa. With experience insuring wagon trains that carried goods from Boston to New York, Aurelius recognized the need for reliable coverage in a region shaped by river crossings, westward expansion, and a thriving lumber industry.

As the years went on, the Root family built on this foundation. Aurelius’ son, J.C. Root, devoted his time to organizations like The Woodmen of the World and Modern Woodmen of America, supporting the local lumber industry through fraternal insurance services. His brother, C.L. Root, eventually took over the agency, bringing with him valuable experience from farmland sales in Oklahoma and South Dakota. C.L. also made his mark as the last mayor of Lyons before the town merged with Clinton. Their brother, A.C. Root, who also ran a local newspaper, later assumed leadership and guided the business until the 1950s.

Following A.C.’s tenure, John H. Root carried the family tradition forward as president. Under his leadership, the agency specialized in insuring and bonding contractors during the post–World War II building boom, helping local businesses grow during a time of rapid development. Today, Juliann L. Bray, our current president, proudly leads the agency with the same commitment to excellence and client-focused service that has defined our history.