Hop v. Brink

This appeal presents for decision a question of law, to wit: Is a civil township, under the Workmen’s Compensation Law of Iowa, liable to its duly appointed road superintendent for “personal injuries sustained, arising out of and in the course of the employment?” It may be well, before giving a direct answer to the question, to make inquiry concerning the origin, powers, and duties of a civil township, as defined by statute.

A civil township is not an incorporated body. It has no inherent charter rights. It is but the creation of the board of supervisors of the county, and its functions are…