Isaac L. Bowman was born to John B. Baumann and Nancy Baumann (nee Bechtel) near Freeport, Ontario on May 23, 1830.

He worked as a teacher in the public schools in Ontario. Around 1860-1861, Isaac was appointed inspector of public schools. He held this position until 1871. He then worked surveying land. He also served as the Treasurer of the Township of Waterloo.

Issac was a member of the United Brethren in Christ, of which body he was a local minister.

On December 25, 1862, he married Elizabeth Meyers (b. May 17, 1844) and together they had four sons. The family resided in Berlin, Ontario.

Isaac died of paralysis February 3, 1893.