Audrain County, Missouri - Biographical sketches, 1884 (part 10 of 17)

Judge Elliott P. Cunningham

a retired and prominent citizen of Mexico, comes of an old family of Massachusetts, where his ancestors were settled for several generations, and where he, himself, was born on the 4th of December, 1809. On his father's side Judge Cunningham is of Irish descent, and on his mothers, of English lineage. Robert Cunningham, Sr., came over to Massachusetts directly from Ireland when a young man, and reared a family in the old Bay State, and his son, Robert, Jr., was the grand¬ father of Judge Cunningham. Judge Cunningham's parents were Jonathan and Deliverance (Earle) Cunningham. The mother was of the well known Earle family of Massachusetts, which settled in that State long prior to the Revolution. Judge Cunningham was reared in Worcester county, of his native State, and as he grew up, learned the carpenter's trade. At the age of nineteeen he went to New York City, where he worked at his trade for about ten months. He then went to North Carolina and followed carpentering there for nearly two years. Returning to New York, the year following he went to New Orleans, and after remaining in that city for about four years he came West in 1837, paying a visit to his relatives in Massachusetts en routey and locating at Pittsfield, Illinois,- where he was in the contracting and building business for the succeeding three years. A man or more than ordinary natural ability and of good business qualifications, Judge Cunningham had by this time become quite prominent in his callino;, and had accumulated some of the substantial evidences of his industry and enterprise. He now came to Missouri and located at Columbia. About this time the State University building was to be erected, and Judge Cunningham, being an experienced and prominent contractor and builder, as well as having some means, made a bid on the work, which was accepted, and thus he became the builder of that extensive and handsome structure. His work was entirely sat¬ isfactory to the authorities of the State and public, and justly so, as over forty years of the durability of the building have proven. Judge Cunningham, in 1845, bought a fine farm in Boone county, on which he located and where he lived, engaged in stock raising and farming on a somewhat extensive scale, until 1853. Judge Cunningham sell¬ ing his farm in Boone county, came to Audrain and bought a large place, where he was successfully engaged in farming for nearly thirty years. But in 1882, being now well advanced in years and com¬ fortably situated in life, he decided to retire from all business and in¬ dustrial activities, and, accordingly, came to Mexico, where he is now spending the evening of life in ease and quiet, and in the con¬ sciousness of having led a useful and reproachless career from youth to old age. As would be expected of a man of his intelligence and character, Judge Cunningham has always occupied a high place in public esteem. Before the war he was elected a member of the county court of this county, and served with fidelity and marked ability until the coming on of that unhappy struggle. On the 8th of May, 1845, Judge Cunningham was married to Miss Cynthia Slocumb, a daughter of Riley and Nancy (Crockett) Slocumb, her father originally of North Carolina, but her mother a native of Virginia. Mrs. Cunningham was born near Franklin, Tennessee, April 26, 1818. Judge and Mrs. C. have reared a family of four children : Elmer, a prominent stock dealer of this county ; Clara, now Mrs. Win. J. Mason, Jr., also of this county; Earle C., now residing on the old Cunningham home¬ stead, and Emmet R., engaged in the livery business at Mexico. The Judge and Mrs. C. have been members of the church for over thirty years. Judge Cunningham was the sixth of a family often children, only three of whom are now living: Thomas, Winthrop, and him¬ self. The others were Willard, Lyman, William, Elizabeth, Adelia, Jonathan, Homer, and Newell.

John Dahlem

a thrifty and industrious German-American farmer of Salt River township, was born in the old Fatherland, beyond the Rhine, Febru¬ ary 18, 1836, and was a son of Jacob and Faronica (Ruth) Dahlem, both native of that country. John was reared in his native country, and when twenty years of age immigrated to America, and worked for about four months in New Jersey. He then came West, locating at Chicago, and from there soon afterwards came to St. Louis, near where he worked on a farm. In August, 1862, he enlisted in Company F, 82d Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and served until the close of the war, holding the position of corporal at first, from which he was pro¬ moted to sergeant. Mr. Dahlem participated in the battles of Chan- cellorsville, Gettysburg, Lookout Mountain, Resacca, Dallas, Kenesaw Mountain, Peach Tree Creek, and numerous other engagements. After the war, Mr. Dahlem farmed in Illinois for one season and then removed to Audrain county, Mo., where he has since resided. He came to his present place in 1869, and is making a specialty of fruit raising. Mr. Dahlem is one of the leading fruit men of the county, and one of the better class of citizens of this township. On the 8th of June, 1862, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Dettweiler, a daughter of Christian Dettweiler, formerly of Germany. Mr. and Mrs. D. have six children : Eugene W. C., Hulda M. B., Edward A. J., John R. C., William M. S. and Elizabeth T. M. Mr. and Mrs. D. are Mennonites.

Joseph W. Dearing

On the pages of this work may be found the sketch of no life more worthy of record and remembrance than the life of Joseph W. Dearing. Caring nothing for the vanities of the world, he has striven, from the time he first began to act and think for himself, to acquit himself faithfully and sincerely of every duty in life. Called upon, as we are, to sketch daily the lives of men who have made themselves worthy of recognition in the history of their re¬ spective counties, men representing every grade and phase of life from the highest to the lowest within the grade of respectability and worth, we can say trulv that never have we been more strongly impressed with the sterling and true character of an upright and useful man, than with'that of the subject of the present sketch. He has sought not to make a high-sounding name in the world, nor to attract to himself the attention and admiration of the public, but his unfaltering purpose has been to go forward in a quiet, unobtrusive and earnest way, and to fulfill his duty to his family, to his country, to his church and to his God. How well he has succeeded in this is well known by those ivho know him best. Through years of activity in the affairs of life, surrounded by its difficulties and tempted by its allure¬ ments, he has come down through his long and useful course with a character untarnished by a wrong, and with a conscience as clear as it was in the morning of life. Having lived temperately, wise and well at an age when many feel the weight of "years, he is yet active and vigorous in mind and body, and is still buoyant with hope and spirit, and with the powers, mental and physical, to make himself still useful as a man and citizen. On such a past he can well afford to look back with satisfaction and pleasure, and such a life is well worthy of remembrance by those among whom so many of his years have been spent. Joseph W. Dearing is a native of the Old Dominion, one of the proudest Commonwealths in the incomparable galaxy of the Union, a State that has given to the country many of its first and best citizens, soldiers and statesmen, and a State which, although many of its people went astray during the late war after the ignis fatuus of a slave-holding Republic, still contains many good and true men who are ready to lay down their lives for the Union which the heroism of Washington and his compatriots dearly bought and trans¬ mitted to posterity, the most glorious heritage that ever fell to the lot of humanity. Mr. Dearing was born in Fauquier county on the 29th of April, 1807, and was a son of Lewis Dearing and wife, Margaret, nee Rogers. The Dearing family is an old and respected one of Vir¬ ginia, but Mr. Dearing's mother came originally from Maryland, where her family had long been settled. Mr. Dearing's father was an industrious and well-to-do farmer of Fauquier county and died in that county in 1826, aged 45 or 46 years, sincerely regretted by all who knew him, Joseph being then 19 years of age. The mother, a good and true woman, a dutiful and loving wife and a devoted mother, died in 1858. There were eight children in their family, of whom Mr. Dearing, whose name heads this sketch, was the eldest. Three besides himself are still living: Sanford, now of Louisville, Ky. ; Burkett, now a well-to-do farmer of Platte county, Mo. ; and Lewis, now engaged in agricultural pursuits in Platte county, this State - all useful and worthy citizens of their respective communities. The others were Thomas, Ann, Elizabeth and John. Thomas lived and died in Virginia. Joseph W. Dearing, like his brothers, was reared in Fauquier county, and was brought up to his father's occupation - farming - which be followed there until he was a vouns; man some 26 years of age. In 1838, believing that there were better opportu¬ nities for young men of industry and intelligence in the West than were to be had in Virginia, he came to Missouri and located in Marion county, where he lived some five years. While there he met Miss Nancy Wine, a daughter of Fielding and Sarah (Priest) Wine, who was also from Fauquier county, Va. Between the two young people, Mr. Dearing and Miss Wine, an attachment sprang up which ripened into the most devoted affection, and which was destined to unite their lives in one of the happiest domestic unions that it is our fortune to mention in this work. They were married on the 3d of March, 1835. In the immigration that came to this State in that early day there were few mechanics, nearly all the early settlers being farmers, and having come out here to follow that calling. There was, therefore, a great demand for artisans, and particularly wagonmakers. Mr. Dearing had much natural mechanical genius and apti¬ tude, and he therefore decided to engage in wagon-making, a trade, indeed, in which he had already done considerable work. In 1836 he located near Hannibal, where he followed the wagon-maker's trade continuing there with success until 1838. He now removed to Paris, in Monroe county, where he became one of the prominent and suc¬ cessful wagon-makers of the place. He continued at Paris for about twenty years, when he retired to a farm in Monroe county, and fol¬ lowed farming, wagon-making, etc., there with success until 1860. During that year Mr. Dearing came to Mexico, and has made this city his home up to the present time, for a period now of nearly a quarter of a century. As a mechanic, Mr. Dearing has been entirely suc¬ cessful, that is, in the truest sense of the word. He has not become a rich man, for riches have not been one of the controlling objects of his life. Asking only such compensation for his work as it was fairly worth, he has lived comfortably by his industry, has reared a worthy family of children, giving them better opportunities for advancement than he had himself in youth, and has accumulated a nice property. In his work his effort was to make it good and exactly what it ought to be, or as nearly so as was possible, and, above all, what he repre¬ sented it to be. A man of large and general intelligence, and striving to excel in his work, he became one of the best mechanics throughout the surrounding country, and that Joseph W. Dearing put up a piece of work was sufficient recommendation for it, and is to this day wherever he is known. As a citizen, Mr. Dealing's life has been as worthy and sincere as he has been as a mechanic. Coming of the older and better blood of Virginia, of the stock that produced patriots, and not traitors, he has always, as a voter and in his walk and talk as a citizen, been animated by a noble and generous zeal for the welfare and prosperity and happiness of his country, and the whole country. For many years prior to the war Mr. Dearing was an honest old-line Whig, of the party that had for its representatives such men as Webster and Clay, and all that line of great and true men. After the disintegration of the Whig party and the breaking out of the war Mr. Dearing took a firm stand for the Union, and was. not only passively loyal, but actively so, doing all he could, at all times and under all circumstances, to advance the Union cause and to bring rebels to their knees before the Old Flag. During- that lon«- and perilous struggle, when it was almost worth a man's life in Mis- souri to say that he was loyal to the Union which Washington founded, and especially so if he were a Virginian, Mr. Dearing spoke out on all occasions for the cause of his country, and gave aid and comfort to its soldiers and friends whenever opportunity offered. He kept open house for the gallant " Boys in Blue," and his table was ever spread and his fire ever warm when they came cold and hungry. A loyal man himself, looking back over these trying times, it is his happiest thought that his own children and those who became allied with his family by marriage, were all true to the Union and the Old Flag. Mr. Dearing, for fifty-seven years, has been a professed and faithful follower of the meek and lowly Savior of the world. Away back in 1827 he united with the Baptist Church, and was bap¬ tized by that eminent divine of Virginia, Cumberland George. Later along, his views of doctrine led him to identify himself with the Christian denomination. This was in 1833, and since then he has been an earnest and faithful member of the denomination with which he then cast his lot. From 1838 to 1860 he was deacon and treasurer of his local church, and has ever been one of its most sincere and earnest members. Mr. Dearing and his good wife were blessed with a family of eight children, Heaven's best benediction of the marriage tie. But " the Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away," and four of these have been called to their home above. Four are left, a comfort and solace to the good man whose sketch we are now writing. Of the four living, Mary A. is the wife of C. F. Rosenbury, of this city ; Anna is the widow of William Squires ; Emma is now Mrs. Joseph Price, and Mildred is now Mrs. Tilton Stemmons, of Wellsville, this State. After a happy married life of nearly half a century, the time at last came for Mrs. Dearing, who had been by her husband's side for so many years, to yield her body to the grave and her spirit to its Maker. On the 17th of April, 1881, she was called away from hus¬ band and children and from neighbors and acquaintances, loved by all as but few women are, to her home on high. After a severe ill¬ ness, she died at last peacefully, and with a smile on her face, that sure harbinger of the inestimable reward that awaited her just beyond the silent river. Thus ended in a fitting way a life that was as pure as any flower that ever bloomed and withered and died. Gentle and tender and devoted, in her character were combined all the purer and nobler and better qualities of mind and heart. Of clear, practical intelligence, she had the judgment and understanding to see what the true duties of a good and worthy woman are, and she had the heart to fulfill them. As a neighbor she was loved for her kindness, hos- pitality and studied regard for the feelings of those around her. At the church, her life shone out an example of faith, sincerity and zeal for the cause of her Maker that all her sisters were proud to imitate. But what shall we sav of the life she lived in her family? Only the hearts of her husband and children can feel what that was - language would do it injustice to attempt to describe it. She seemed uncon¬ scious of self, but only to know that there were loved ones to live foi , strive for, and pray for. In her life around her fireside there is a beautiful poem, too tender and too delicately interwoven with the sentiments of the heart ever to be written, or ever to be approached by the pen of mortal. It is a sweet symphony of noble deeds, un¬ ceasing and innumerable, from the time she first had dear ones to love until she was borne away for the last time from the home she had so long brightened and made happy, that can only be sung by the voices of angels in Heaven. Such a life vindicates the divine pater¬ nity of humanity, and brings us to know that as from Heaven only such can come, so to Heaven it must return. On the other shore the spirit of this good woman is now watching and waiting for her loved companion of so many years to join her, and thus re-unite in the mar¬ riage of immortality the two happy lives that were so long bound together in this life. It should have been stated before that for some time Mr. D. held the position of postmaster on Long Branch, Monroe county, Mo. Mr. Dearing finds a pleasant home in the family of his daughter and her husband, Mr. and Mrs. C. F. Rosenbury.

Frank B. Delaplane

freight agent of the Wabash Railroad, Mexico. Mr. Delaplane, himself, is a native of Ohio, born in Highland county, September 24, 1838, but his parents were both originally of Maryland. The Dela¬ plane family is of French origin, but has long been settled in the Chesapeake Bay State. In an early day, however, Mr. Delaplane's parents, Daniel and Delilah Delaplane, removed to Ohio, where thev reared their family and lived until their death, the father dying in 1855 and the mother in 1865. Frank B., the subject of this sketch, was reared in Highland county, Ohio, and received a good ordinary education in the public schools of that county. He remained on the farm until 1862, when he enlisted in the 18th Ohio, a battery regi¬ ment, in which he served as sergeant for three years, or during his term of enlistment. He then re-enlisted in the army, becoming a ser¬ geant in Company G, of the U. S. Engineers, in which he served for three years more. In 1868 Mr. Delaplane was, for the second time, honorably mustered out of the service, and he thereupon came West, and began his career as a railroad man in the service of the Missouri Pacific at Kirkwood, a suburb of St. Louis, where he continued four years. He was then agent at Calvey, on the same road for a short time, and after that was employed on a Pullman sleeper for about two years. In 1875 Mr. Delaplane obtained a situation in the general freight office at St. Louis, of what is now the Wabash Railroad, and after quitting that position he came to Mexico, where he has been em¬ ployed as the freight agent of the same road ever since. Naturally a man of accommodating disposition and of popular manners, these qualifications, combined with his long experience in the railroad ser¬ vice, have conspired to render him one of the efficient and popular men in his branch of the work on the line of the great Wabash Sys¬ tem. He is justly highly valued by the general officers of the company and is much thought of at Mexico as an obliging, accommodating agent. On the 24th of September, 1873, Mr. Delaplane was married to Miss Sarah J. Elliott, of St. Louis county. They have one child, Norris E. Mrs. Delaplane is a member of the Episcopal Church.

Rev. Edward J. Dempsey

pastor of the Catholic Church, Mexico, was born in Northampton county, Pennsylvania, August 26, 1849, and was educated at Quincy, Illinois, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and finally took a completing course at Baltimore, Maryland, passing through the Catholic colleges at each of these places with marked honor, Following this, he was duly ordained on the 28th of April, 1878, and was located at St. Louis. He was subsequently given a charge at Bonne Terre, in St. Francois county, this State, and then in the fall of 1880, took charge of the parish at Mexico. He was afterwards given charge of the parish at Columbia, and likewise holds services at Laddonia. Father Dempsey has been at Mexico for nearly four years, and sufficient time has therefore elapsed to form a fairly accurate estimate of his worth and character as a man and priest.

Benjamin F. Dobyns

prairie village, Mr. Dobyns has been identified with its business pro¬ gress, and no man in the history of the place stands higher for busi¬ ness integrity and honorable citizenship than he. He has held some of the most responsible offices in the county, and his record as a pub¬ lic official has been not less enviable than his career as a private citizen. Some philosopher has said, " That a good man is the work of a life¬ time, and is to be valued above all other prizes for it is the main¬ stay and reliance of its possessor in all circumstances of life. In prosperity it is a comfort and solace ; in adversity it is the best and truest friend of the unfortunate ; for to this, and to this alone, must he look for help to rise from his difficulties. Such a name has Mr. Dobyns in Mexico and Audrain county, and wherever he is known. In his business it is worth more to him and to his firm than his capi¬ tal and industry ; and to this is largely due (and, perhaps, not less so to the good name of his partner) the large and flourishing trade which they command. Their house sprang at once into popularity, and has since held a prominent place among the leading houses of Mexico in their line. Mr. Dobyns is a native of Kentucky, born in Dover, in Mason county, November 4, 1844. Principally reared in his native county, he came to Mexico prior to the war, and soon engaged in the grocery business as clerk with his father, Silas L. Dobyns, who was well known throughout the county. This he followed for a number of years. A man of upright character, good business qualifications, and popular manners, he became well and favorably known throughout the county, and such was the esteem in which he was held that in 1878 he was nomi¬ nated and elected to the responsible office of county collector. He held that continuously until March, 1833, and is conceded to have made one of the best collectors the county ever had. He is said to have collected the revenue closer than any other collector in the State. After this Mr. Dobyns engaged in his present business, which he has since followed.

physician and surgeon, Mexico. It was in 1864 that Dr. Dodson graduated from the St. Louis Medical College by the unanimous vote of the faculty, his graduation having been one of marked credit. He was then a young man 25 years of age, and at once located at Jack¬ sonville, Missouri, in the practice of his profession. A thoroughly qualified physician, attentive to his practice, and of popular manners and address, he soon drew around him a large and respectable clientele , accumulating also some means. At the expiration of four years, he became interested in a prominent drug store, continuing at the head of that business for about eighteen months. But as the industrious and frugal often see the fruits of a lifetime of labor and economy swept away by the fiery element, so Dr. Dodson was made a victim to a similar misfortune,' his drug house, including the building and a large stock of drugs, being destroyed by fire. This swept away all he had previously accumulated and, as he says himself, left him $1,500 worse off than he was when he commenced a young man, practically penniless, years before. He now removed to Martinsburgh, Missouri, and went to work in his practice to make a new start in life. For fourteen years he followed the practice at that place with uninterrupted energy and perseverance, with more than ordinary success, especially as a physician at the bedside of the sick, if not in the accumulation of property. Desiring to enter a wider field of labor in his profession, Dr. Dodson came from Martinsburgh to Mexico in 1881. Here he has since resided, and has been actively engaged in the practice of his pro¬ fession. Dr. Dodson was already well known to many of the citizens of this city as an experienced and capable physician, so that on com¬ ing here he had a great advantage over an entire stranger in command¬ ing a practice. To this fact it is largely due that he so readily entered upon a good practice after coming to this place. Since then his prac¬ tice has steadily increased, and he now occupies a place among the busier and more successful physicians of Mexico. Dr. Dodson, it is worthy of remark, is a native Missourian, born in Randolph county, Missouri, January 16, 1839. He was a son of George Dodson, a well respected and substantial citizen of that county. Dr. Dodson was edu¬ cated in the schools of Randolph county (and McGee College, Macon county), and afterwards read medicine under Dr. Robert Terrell, a prominent physician of Randolph county. On the 11th of August, 1864, Dr. Dodson was married to Miss Sue Proctor, of Randolph county, a lady of great strength of character and rare qualities of heart. The Doctor and Mrs. Dodson have six children: George R., Jesse C., Susie E., Julia P., Minnie M., Shelby M. James B. is now deceased. Dr. Dodson and his wife are both members of the Christian Church, and the Doctor is a member of the A. O. U. W. and of the Masonic order. He is also a member of the County and District Medical So¬ cieties. Dr. Dodson's father was originally of Virginia, but his mother, whose maiden name was Miss Nannie Brown, was of Kentucky, where they were married. There were eight children in their family.

was one of those good men of Audrain county, of whom it has been favored with not a few, whose lives, like stars, brighten and beautify its past. He came of a family whose name occupies an enviable place in the history of Virginia and Kentucky, and worthily he bore the name he inherited, from the dawn of his youth until the sun of his earthly career was set forever. James W. Dudley was born in Fay¬ ette county, Kentucky, June 12, 1807. He was a son of Gen. James Dudley, who came out from Virginia to the Blue Grass State in an early day, where he made his home and lived until his death. Gen. Dudley was one of the prominent and leading men of Fayette county, and his death was mourned as a great public loss. Rev. Mr. Dudley, after he grew up in Kentucky, came out to Missouri, locating in Audrain county in the spring of 1857. Here he bought a tine tract of land, numbering some 400 acres, on which he settled, and lived until his death. On the 15th of December, 1831, he was married to Miss Virginia Russell of Russell's Cave, Kentucky, a union that proved a long and happy one, and was blessed with a numerous family of chil¬ dren. Rev. Mr. Dudley was identified with the Old School Baptist Church from an early age, and studied for the ministry, being ordained to preach the Gospel when a young man. Though not constantly in the work of the ministry, for it could with truth be said of him that he lived by "the sweat of his own brow," and therefore had to devote much time to manual industry - he served in the pulpit for the better part of his long and useful life, and was the means of bringing many to a blessed realization of the unfailing and glorious promises of the Redeemer. For several years he was pastor at Paris and Mexico, re¬ spectively, and he organized and had charge of the Berea Church during most of his residence in this county. He died on the 17th day of July, 1880, as greatly missed by his church and the community as any man whose remains now rest beneath the sod of Audrain county. His good wife preceded him to the grave in February, 1879. He or¬ ganized the church at Berea and was its pastor until his death. Of his family, originally of eleven children, five are now living : William R., Robert H., Clifton F., Kate W., now Mrs. Richmond Price, of Clay county, and James E. William R. Dudley, who furnished the facts for the above sketch of his father's life, was born in Richmond, Kentucky, May 1, 1836. In youth he attended the schools of Rich¬ mond, and growing up on the farm, learned the practical details of farm life. Coming to Missouri with his parents in 1857, he taught school iu Audrain county for some years following, and on the 18tli of Octo¬ ber, 1859, was married to Miss Margaret Steele of Jessamine county, Kentucky, and a daughter of Gavin Steele, a well known mill-wright and master-mechanic of Central Kentucky. After his marriage, Mr. Dudley engaged in farming in this county and followed it with success for a number of years. He then established a general store at Molino, which he has since been conducting. Mr. Dudley is one of the sub¬ stantial men and respected citizens of Audrain county. He has a good store and commands a large trade. In 1882 he was appointed post¬ master at Molino, a position he has ever since held. And it is worthy of remark here, that Mr. Dudley gave the name to this place which it bears, calling it after the battle of Molino Del Rey, which was fought during the Mexican AVar. Mr. D. is a member of the Old School Bap¬ tist Church at Berea. He has five children : Steele, Ambrose, Rus¬ sell, Carrie and Maggie. Mr. Dudley had the misfortune to lose his wife on the 7th of December, 1875. She was a woman of many esti¬ mable qualities and was greatly esteemed by her neighbors as well as loved in her own family. Their son Ambrose was named for a brother of Mr. Dudley, who was killed at the battle of Lexington, Missouri, while gallantly fighting in the Southern army.

James E. Dudley

farmer, and a son of the good man, Rev. James W. Dudley, whose sketch precedes this, was born in Madison county, Kentucky, March 17, 1851, and was therefore six years of age when his parents came to this State. Reared on the farm in this county, young Dudley attended the schools of the vicinity as he grew up, and thus acquired a good, practical education, sufficient for all the ordinary purposes of farm and business life. Although remaining on the old family home¬ stead after attaining his majority, he was engaged in farming to a certain extent on his own account, and in later years has been exclu¬ sively so engaged. On the 25th day of January, 1883, he was mar¬ ried to Miss Cordelia Botts, a daughter of Judge John F. Bolts, a sketch of whose life appears in this volume. Mr. Dudley still resides on a part of the old family homestead, and has a neat place comfortably and conveniently improved. He is a member of the Berea Baptist Church, which his father organized, and Mrs. Dudley belongs to the Bethel Presbyterian Church. Mr. Dudley is a worthy son and repre- farmer, and whose name is mentioned in the sketch of Rev. James W. Dudley as a son of that worthy old citizen of Audrain county, was born in Madison county, Kentucky, on the 11th day of October, 1843. He was, therefore, partly reared in Audrain county. Brought up to an agricultural life, farming naturally became his permanent calling. Mr. Dudley remained on the family homestead until his marriage, which was in 1869. On the 16th day of November of that year he was married to Mrs. Priscilla Hawkins, a daughter of Edward Hall, of St. Louis county. After his marriage Mr. Dudley removed to that county and was engaged in farming there until his father's death. He then returned to his old home, and bought the greater part of the family homestead, including the residence, etc., where he has since resided. Mr. Dudley's farm contains 300 acres, and is one of the best places in the township. As a farmer Mr. Dudley's career, as these facts show, has been one of marked success, and as a citizen and neighbor no man in the township is more highly respected. He and his good wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church in St. Louis county, which his father organized, and of which he was pastor for so many years.

Capt. P. Hamilton Duley

farmer and stock raiser. Capt. Duley, an old and influential citizen of Audrain county, and who was a gallant soldier in the Mexican War, leading a company of brave Missourians across the Rubicon-like Rio Grande and on over the sun-scorched plains of the Cactus Republic to the ancient halls of the Montezumas, is a native of that land of fair women and brave men, Kentucky, the Blue Grass State, and was born in Scott county in October, 1812. His grandfather Duley was a sturdy old pioneer and compatriot of Daniel Boone in the wilderness days of that State, and there Capt. Duley's father, Nathanial Duley, was born and reared, coming up amid the wild and weird scenes of that then frontier country. Those were men of strong arms and brave hearts in that day, and were in truth monarchs of the times in which they lived. No danger or hardship deterred them from working out the grand destiny which was assigned them, the planting of civilization in an unknown wilderness and establishing a great and prosperous Commonwealth. With mighty forests to clear away and the murderous savage to drive out, they went forth with their rifle in one hand and their ax in the other, guarding themselves and their children while they made homes for their families and opened up smiling fields and pastures. From such an ancestry it is not to be wondered at that descendants came with the courage and patriotism to bear the meteor-like banner of their country to the southern shores of the Mexican Gulf and wherever duty required that they should be unfurled. Nathaniel Duley, after he grew up, was married to a distant relative of his, Miss Sallie Duley, and in 1815, when his son Ham, as he is called by everybody in Audrain county, or Capt. Duley, was but three years of age, the family emigrated to Indiana, locating in Sullivan county, when the white inhabitants of that section of the countrv could be numbered on one's fingers. Fearing no dangers or hardships and anxious to push on out further west, in 1821 they came to Missouri and located in Callaway county, then an almost solitary oasis in the boundless wilds of this State. There Nathaniel Duley went to work and by his brawn and brain established himself and family comfortably in life. He made a large farm, and with the progress of the country prospered in the accumulation of property. He became one of the substantial citizens of the county ; and a man of strong mind and honest heart, animated at all times by an earnest desire to do his full duty in every relation of life, he became appreciated for his character and personal worth, and won a high place in the esteem and confidence of the people. He died there at a green old age, going down to his grave amid the sorrow and sincere regret of all who knew him at his loss. Brought up under such father, the future of usefulness and success in life which Ham Duley has realized was to have been expected. From such fathers come worthy citizens and valuable men. Ham Duley was reared to know what work is and not to fear it, and from his brave-hearted ancestors he inherited the courage to go forward in the discharge of the duties of life, fearing nothing and with unfaltering fidelity. When a young man he struck out from the comparative ease and comforts of his parental home to establish himself in life. Farming was hereditary to him and he of course began his career as a farmer. From that day to this Capt. Duley's whole time, except when he was facing, with musket in hand, the foes of his country, has been occupied with the sturdy, independent pursuits of the farmer's life. And like his father and his forefathers, his industry and good sense have abundantly prospered him. Coming to Audrain county in an early day, he has become one of the substantial men and prominent farmers of the township where he lives. He has a fine farm of nearly 300 acres, and is comfortably situated on his place. It was on the 13th of May, 1846, that Congress declared war against Mexico and called the gallant spirits of the Union to rally around that bright and streaming banner which Washington had borne with undying glory, to uphold the majesty and dignity of the American Nation. Ham Duley was one of the first young men of Missouri to answer the call of his country. Putting aside all things else, his whole heart became enlisted in the service of the Republic. He quickly organized a company of volunteers and joined the army of the Republic. From that time until the 14th of September, 1847, when the bands of the American soldiery marched down the streets of Mexico with proud hearts playing the national air of Yankee Doodle, he kept step to the music of the Union and proved himself a worthy soldier of the first Nation that adorns the planet. Indeed, he served until after the cession of the mighty empire of the west to this country as one of the splendid fruits of the war. He was mustered out after the declaration of peace and returned to receive he congratulations of his people and to settle down in the bosom of his family. Capt. Duley also did valuable service in the expulsion of the Mormons, that social fester of civilization, from this State. Capt. Duley has been twice married. First, a few years after his triumphant return from the Mexican War, illustrating the truth that the brave win the fair. His wife's maiden name was Miss Harriet Burnett, a daughter of John D. S. Burnett, of Boone county. She was a young widow at the time, having lost her first husband, Samuel Long, a few years before. She died in 1857. To his present wife he was married in 1867. She was the widow of Thomas Kelly. Her maiden name was Miss Malinda Ellis. She was a daughter of Abraham Ellis, of Callaway county, but formerly of Virginia. By his former wife there were two children, but both died in infancy. Capt. and Mrs. D. are both church members.

John Ellis

farmer and stock raiser. In the lives of such men as the one whose name heads this sketch lies the true history of the development, growth and prosperity of Audrain county. It is such as he that have made this county what it is - one of the foremost in the great State of Missouri. Coming here in the early days of the county, poor, a young married man, and with nothing but his own brawn and brain to rely on for success in life, he went to work with that resolution and intelligence on the rich soil of Audrain county that, as the years circled round, could not fail to bring him abundant prosperity, and place him in the front rank of successful agriculturists and worthy, useful citizens of the State. Thus he with others of his kind have built up this county, and stand out to-day as the true monuments of its progress and prosperity. John Ellis was born in Callaway county September 5, 1820, about the time that Missouri was admitted into the Union. He came of an old pioneer settler of this State and a gal¬ lant old soldier ot the War of 1812. His father, Abraham Ellis, was a native of Virginia. When he was a boy the family removed to East Ten nessee, and afterwards to St. Louis county, Missouri, when the Indian and the bear were still in the country. A young man, he enlisted withCapt. McAllister in the Canadian War, as it was called, and served until the triumph of Jackson at New Orleans, and the restora¬ tion of peace. He married Miss Mary Truesdale and came to Callaway county in 1818. He died there in 1848 at the age of sixty-three. He was twice married, Mr. Ellis' mother beino- his second wife. His first wife, whose maiden name was Lee, was a near relative to Gen. Robert E. Lee. By each wife there were seven children. John Ellis grew up in Callaway county, and remained at home until the outbreak of the Mexican War, when he enlisted in the army, and did gallant service under the flag of his country. Coming back afterwards, he made the trip from the land of the cactus in the dead of winter, and brought back the U. S. mail by special charge. Mr. Ellis remained at home with his parents, giving them his labor on the farm until after his marriage, which was in the spring of 1848. Miss Rebecca Darby then became his wife. He now bought a saw-mill near Fulton, partly on time, and paid for it by his own hard labor. He sawed the lumber for the State Lunatic Asylum under special contract, making some money, and continued to run the mill for sixteen months. Selling it at the expir¬ ation of that time, he came to Audrain county and bought 140 acres of land, and went to work to make himself a home. He worked steadily, untiringly, in season and out of season, and prospered abundantly. He soon engaged in stock raising and bought some slaves. His farm steadily expanded, and when the war broke out he owned over 500 acres of fine land, and was one of the wealthy men of the county. He lost over $10,000 by the war in slaves and other property; still, his estate was not seriously crippled. He was largely engaged in shipping mules to the South prior to the war. Since then he has confined himself mainly to raising and handling cattle and hogs, in which he is very successful. His homestead con¬ tains nearly GOO acres, and is one of the finest and best farms in the county. Besides this he has 640 acres of fine land in the vicinity. Mr. Ellis had the misfortune to lose his first wife. She left him a large family of children: John W., Samuel D. (now deceased), Re¬ becca R., now Mrs. William H. Wallace, of Mexico; Jennie, Anna B., Ira J., Amanda L., now Mrs. Lowrey Smith; Jefferson Davis, now attending the State University, and Abraham P. S. D., who died in 1882, was a young man of the brightest promise, a graduate ol the State Normal School at Kirksville, and school commissioner of Audrain county. To his present wife, whose maiden name was Miss Elizabeth Callahan, he was married in 1871. She had been once mauied to a Mr. McLean. Mr. and Mrs. E. have three children. Nolan, Arthur, and Octave. Mr. Ellis has been a public-spirited citizen, and has done a great deal for the vicinity in the cause of education. He has held the office of magistrate, but never had any political ambition, and has been anxious to live only an upright life, devoted to his family and to the best interests of his county and country. His life has been such that no descendant of his will ever be ashamed to point to him as a worthy ancestor.

John H. Field

a prominent young farmer and stock raiser of Audrain county, was born in Madison county, Kentucky, March 2, 1858, and comes of two well known and prominent families of that county, his parents, how¬ ever, or rather his father, being now a citizen of Missouri. Mr. Field s father is Judge Curtis Field, of Pettis county, president of the Pettis County Savings Bank, at Sedalia, and one of the largest land holders in Audrain county. The mother of Mr. Field was, before hei mairiage, a Miss Martna Richardson, of a highly respected and influential family. She died in 1860, while John H. was in tender years. There were seven children in the family, John H. being the youngest. All of the others are now in Pettis county, except Charles R., who is a citizen ot t>t. Louis. Mr. Field's father was for many years a prominent member of the Madison county (Ivy.) Bar, at Richmond, and was lor a time editor of the Messenger at that place. He is a man of marked ability and fine business qualifications, as well as an able lawyer, and has succeeded in accumulating a larcre estate, both in land in different localities, and in other property - banking stock, etc. He came to Missouri in 1868, and has since been connected with various banking-houses. In 1880 he was elected president of the Savings Bank of Sedalia, a position he still holds. He has about 2,000 acres of land in this county, which he has rented out. John H. Field has been a resident of this county since 1870, and has been largely engaged in handling stock since that time. He has a fine farm of 120 acres and has it handsomely improved. His place is about two miles and a half east of Mexico. Besides having other improvements of the first-class, it is set off by a beautiful resi¬ dence, one of the handsomest farm dwellings in the county. On the 1st of December, 1879,- Mr. Field was married to Miss Annie Eliza¬ beth French, a daughter of William H. French, one of the prominent citizens of Audrain county. Mrs. Field is a lady of superior culture and refinement, and is of a most winning and amiable disposition. She is a graduate of Hardin College, receiving her honors there in the class of '76. Besides his homestead, Mr. Field has a place of 680 acres about four miles east of his home farm. He has a rine herd of fine grade cattle, and is steadily improving his stock by the introduction of the best breed. Mr. and Mrs. Field have two chil¬ dren, William French and John Harrison.

Judge William O. Forrist

attorney at law, Mexico. Judge Forrist has been a member of the bar of Audrain county for sixteen years, and has long been recognized as one of the leading lawyers of this section of the State. Judge Forrist was born in Trumbull county, Ohio, October 1, 1826, a section of that State noted for the intelligence of its people and the strong abilities of many of its citizens. On both sides, he came of ancient and honored New England families. His father, Ira Forrist, was a native of Vermont, and was a gallant soldier in the American army in the War of 1812. The Forrist family have long been settled in the Green Mountain State, and several of its representatives have risen to distinction in the various walks of life in that commonwealth. Jud^e Forrist' s mother, whose maiden name was Miss Polly Thomas, was originally of Massachusetts, and was of one of the first families in the old Bay State. She was a daughter of Capt. John Thomas, who served with distinction in the Colonial army during the War of the Revolution. In an early day the Judge's parents removed to Ohio, settling on the Western Reserve, and in Trumbull county, where Judge Forrist, or

William O., as he was then called, grew to manhood. The father was a sturdy, intelligent, thrifty New Englander, and on the fertile soil of Ohio became a successful and influential farmer and also carried on the dairying business. A man of good practical education himself, he appreciated the importance of the knowledge to be derived from books, and was not only an ardent friend of general education, as most New Englanders are, but saw to it that his own children were not suffered to grow, up in ignorance. William O., as were the rest, was kept at school while young, when schools were accessible in the neighbor¬ hood 5 and when not at school his time was well occupied with work on the farm. Later along, he entered Farmington Seminary, of Ohio, an institution of high repute at that time, in which he concluded his studies in 1843. Such were his proficiency in his studies and recog¬ nized supeiioiity in the Seminary, that he was awarded the honors of his class, being made its valedictorian. Prior t© this, he had de¬ cided to devote himself to the legal profession, as being the callinomost in accord with his tastes and best adapted, as he believed, to the useful and successful exercise of his abilities ; and while his pro¬ gress through school was such as to raise high anticipations in the breasts of his friends of his future at the bar, his valedictory, on quit¬ ting his Alma JSlalev was of such an order, both in substance and the eloquence of its delivery, as to predict for him a high place in his future profession. He now left the Seminary and began, regularly, a preparatory course of study for the bar. Young Forrist put him¬ self undei the pieceptorate of John Crank, Esq., an eminent lawyer of Trumbull county, and after remaining under him some time, he became a student under Gov. Ford of that State. His career as a law student was in keeping with the progress he had made at school. In the fall of 1847 he was admitted to practice in the circuit court of Geauga county, and such were his attainments at the time, as shown by his examination, that he was warmly complimented by the court and by several leading lawyers present. Entering at once actively upon the practice of his profession, he continued at Chardon, the county seat of Geauga county, until 1860, when he removed to the city of Wanen, where he practiced law with increasing success and reputation for the following eight years. But by this time the war had come and gone, and changed conditions found Missouri a State of great desirability as a place of residence to the people of the North. Blessed as this State is with all the natural resources and advantages for a great and prosperous commonwealth, it now became almost a " promised land " to the people of the North and East. The result was that a heavy current of emigration set in to Missouri, which, though greatly lessened now, has still not ceased. Judge Forrist, like thousands of other men of progressive and liberal ideas in his native State, decided to come to Missouri, and unite his energies and coun¬ sel with those of the people here in the great work of making this State what it has every advantage to be, one of the first in the sisterhood of commonwealths. Accordingly, in 1868, he came to Missouri, and located at Mexico in the practice of his profession, where he has since resided. Here his superior abilities and high attainments as a lawyer soon became recognized, and he rapidly built up a large practice. The favorable impression he early made in the courts of Missouri has not proved a mistaken one. A man devoted to his profession with almost religious fidelity, he has pursued the practice of law more from his love of the great principles which it embodies and enforces, and from his admiration of the law as the first and highest of sciences, than for purposes of profit. Addressing himself to his profession from this high and worthy standpoint, he has followed its practice with that industry, energy and integrity that could not have failed, not only of making him a successful lawyer, but of commanding the respect and confidence of the courts and the public, a matter of the first importance to a great lawyer. A man of a marked judicial cast of mind, Judge Forrist yet has that mercurialness and enthusiasm so essential to the successful advocate. Ready of language and an elo¬ quent speaker, he is conceded to be one of the best jury lawyers in North-east Missouri. A close student, and of a clear, discriminating mind, he prepares his cases thoroughly before he enters the court-room, and in open court is active, vigilant and untiring in the discharge of his duties to his clients. Judge Forrist has been engaged in most of the leading cases tried in the courts of Audrain and adjoining counties for years past, and he also has a respectable practice in the Supreme Court. He devotes his time exclusively to his profession, and takes no interest in public affairs except that of an intelligent public-spirited citizen in private life. Before the war he was a Whig, but since that time he has acted with the Republican party. Though believing in the general principles of the Republican party, he is by no means a hide-bound, straight-jacket partisan. In this State he was one of the first prominent Republicans to advocate the re-enfranchisement of the ex-Confederates. In the month of September, 1852, Judge For¬ rist was married to Miss Rosamond L. Pease, of Geauga county, Ohio, but originally of New York. They have reared two children: Ella, who is the wife of John A. Guthrie, of Mexico, and Frederick, who holds a clerical position in the Merchant's Exchange at St. Louis. The Judge's father died in Mexico in 1871. His mother died in 18 - .' The Judge is the only one of their family of children now living ucge Fornst has for many years been a prominent member of the Masonic and Odd Fellow orders.

Richard H. Fowler

dealer in groceries, queen's-ware, wood and willow-ware, table and poc set cutlery, lamps, chandeliers, tin-ware, etc., Mexico. Mr. -bowler, who is one of the important factors in the business o-rowth and prosperity of Mexico, is justly entitled to more than a passing notice in this volume. Since his identification with this cityasabusfness man, no one has been more active and enterprising, and none lave done more m his line to increase and extend the trade and inuence of the place. Keeping always on hand a large and well selected stock of goods of the 'best class, by dealing fairly with his customers and treating every one courteously and politely, he natur¬ ally draws to his house new customers almost daily, and oftentimes those from a distance who have formerly been in the habit of trading at other points. Thus attracting a purchaser to Mexico to lay in his goods in the grocery line, the new customer very naturallv, while here, also makes purchases in other lines, so that all branches of business derive benefit from the enterprise and popular business management of one merchant. Mr. Fowler holds a prominent position in the business affairs of this city, and his influence is increas¬ ing m a marked ratio. Mr. Fowler is a native of Virginia, born in Buckingham county, March 17, 1836, and was a son of Sherwood and Mary S. (Maddox) Fowler, both born and reared in that State. While Richard H. was still in infancy the family came to Missouri, and m 1838 settled in Callaway county, his father having died in August, 1836. The mother is now living with the subject of this sketch, and is in her eightieth year. Young Fowler grew up on the farm in Callaway county, and had only limited common school advantages for an education. While still a young man he learned the blacks mi tb'strade, and worked at it with industry and success for twenty years, thus accumulating a considerable nucleus of means. He then, in 1870, engaged in the grocery business, which he has since followed, and with the success indicated above. On the 18th of February, 1858, he was married to Miss Mary E. Bailey, formerly of Boone county. They have four children : Richard H., Lucv J., Margaret E 42 " ° and Laura B. Mr. and Mrs. F. are members of the M. E. Church South, and Mr. F. is a Knight Templar in the Masonic order, and a member of the A. O. U. W. Mr. Fowler was honored with being elected Mayor of Mexico for the years 1878, 1879 and 1880.

John W. Fox

one of the energetic citizens and thriving, progressive farmers of Salt River township, comes from an old Kentucky family, and was born in Montgomery county, of the Blue Grass State, July 18, 1837. In 1846 his parents, William C. and Sophia (Hensley) Fox, removed to Ohio, and settled in Scioto county. But the father dying there four years afterwards, the mother returned to Kentucky with her family, where John W. grew to manhood. Without the care and assistance of a father, his school advantages were of course limited ; but making up for this deficiency by improving his leisure time at study, he nevertheless succeeded in acquiring a sufficient education for the ordinary affairs of life. In 1858, desiring to get a start in the world, he came West where lands were cheap which would enable him soon to become the owner of a farm himself. He located in Audrain county and went to work here with an energy that could hardly fail of success. Soon afterwards he met a young lady, Miss Eliza J. Dungan, who became his wife on the 18th of April, 1860. She was a daughter of Elijah Dungan, formerly of Kentucky. Mr. Fox im¬ mediately after his marriage settled on a farm about three miles north¬ west of Mexico, where he resided some twelve years, steadily advancing in the accumulation of property. Selling that place to good advantage in 1872, he bought his present farm, situated five and one-half miles north-west of Mexico and removed to it. Here he has a place of a half section of fine land, all of which is fenced and either in active cultivation, meadow or tame pasturage. His improvements are all of an excellent class and his farm has every convenience of a comfortable homestead. Mr. and Mrs. F. have a family of four chil¬ dren : Lizzie, Nancy J., now Mrs. Biggers ; Sallie A., and James W. Their family are received and welcomed into the best society of this vicinity, and are highly respected.

William H. Fox

w,th the Rebellion, was a stanch Union man during the war, and fashioning his life to his faith, he enlisted, in 1861, in the 24th Ken¬ tucky Volunteer Infantry for a period of three years, and served out ns term with unflinching fidelity and gallantry. He was in a number o tie great battles of the war, including those of Shiloh and Knox¬ ville, and was in the whole of Sherman's celebrated march to Atlanta, Georgia From a private he rose to the position ot sergeant, which he held during the major part of his service. Mr. Fox was born in Montgomery county, Kentucky, September 19, 1842, and was reared m that county. His father was Thomas L. Fox, and his mother's maiden name was Martha Ingram ; both were natives of the Blue here married on the 25th of April, 1867, to Miss Mary E. Williams a aug iter of Gideon P. Williams of this county. Mr. Fox located on a farm, after his marriage, in the vicinity of where his father-in-law re¬ sided and lived there until the spring of 1872, when he came to his pres¬ ent place He has a neat farm where he now resides of 80 acres, which

" hVe mile? "°rth-West of Mexico- He is a man of industry, and as the years circle around will doubtless come to the front as a prominent farmer of the township, being still hardly a middle-aged man. Ml and Mrs. F have four children: Augusta, Elizabeth, J. Vincil, and Emmet. They have lost one, Edna Boreland, who died in tender years. Mr. and Mrs. F. are members of the M. E. Church, South.

Pinckney French, M.D.

physician and surgeon, Mexico. In every department of life Missouri has her prominent representatives - in public affairs, at the bar in the pulpit, in medicine, in the field of education, in fact, everywhere she can point with just pride to her sons who have risen to distinc¬ tion. And among the young men who are just now fairly entered upon the arena of life's activities, there are those in various parts of the State whose attainments and abilities give promise of more than ordinary eminence in their respective callings. Indeed, not a few of the young men of the State have already attracted general attention by their rapid advancement and success in the professions and voca- tions to which their lives have become devoted. Plato laid it down as a precept that the minds of the young should be directed to what is agreeable to them as a study, so that the peculiar bent of their gen¬ ius may be the better understood. And like everything that great philosopher said, this is freighted with wisdom ; for it goes without saying that in whatever calling one may have a preference for, he will succeed far better than in any other. One's natural inclination seems almost invariably to be a true index of his capabilities and aptitudes. Thus it is that in these times of enlightenment and intelligence the predisposition of the boy is taken as a decision of what his future field of usefulness ought to be. Among the young men of this State who have risen to prominence in the medical profession is the subject of the present sketch, - and it is doubtless as much due, and perhaps more, to the fact that in adopting this profession as the calling of his life, he followed the bent of his natural inclination ; for from an early age he manifested a marked preference and aptitude for medical studies, and particularly for the department of surgery. Dr. French, although but little more than thirty years of age, has risen to a posi¬ tion in his profession second to but few, if any, in the interior of the State. He was president of the Medical Society of Audrain county for the year 1879, and in 1880 he was honored by the Board of Cura¬ tors of the State University with the appointment to a membership on the Board of Medical Examiners of that institution, a position he still holds. For the year 1882 he was first vice-president of the State Med¬ ical Association. He was also professor of surgical anatomy in the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Chicago, Illinois, for the period of one year, which position he resigned to resume the general prac¬ tice ; and while in that position he was also associate editor of the surgical department of the Western Medical and Surgical Reporter > of Chicago. For the year ending March, 1875, he held the position of assistant surgeon to the Chicago and Alton Railroad, and is now local surgeon at Mexico for both that road and the Wabash. Dr. French graduated with high honor at the Miami Medical College of Cincinnati, Ohio, in the spring of 1873 ; and considering the briefness of liis career, thus far, in the medical profession, his advancement has been rapid and brilliant. Dr. French was born in Audrain county. Mo., May 10, 1852, and is a son of Isaac C., and Melinda M. French, old and respected residents of this county. His general edu¬ cation was acquired in the common schools, and at the early age of seventeen he began the study of medicine under Doctors W. H. Lee and John S. Potts, the latter of whom is now in California. While at college Dr. French showed special skill and proficiency in surgery. In fact, this has always been his favorite branch of the profession, and in it he has achieved his chief prominence, although he also oc¬ cupies an enviable position of distinction in the department of the medical practice itself. Dr. French is justly regarded as one of the leading men in his profession in this section of the State. He is at present a member of the firm of French & Walker, and of course they have a large practice. On the 5th of February, 1874, Dr. French was married to Miss Lncy P. Qnisenberry, a young lady of rare intel¬ ligence and superior accomplishments. She is of the well known Qnisenberry family of Boone county, one of the oldest and best famdies in North Central Missouri. The Doctor is a member of the County, District, State and Tri-State Medical Societies, and is a man proprietor of the Summit House, Mexico, Missouri. Mr. Galloway, who conducts one of the popular hotels of this city, is an old news¬ paper man, and is well known among the members of the press, not only throughout this State but in Ohio and Iowa. He was born near Cleveland, Ohio, February 13, 1813, and when only eleven years old staited out in life on his own resources, and of course without means or education. In 1827 he went to Lawrenceburg, Indiana, where he apprenticed himself to the printers' trade on the Indiana Palladium , and worked for several years. He then went to Cleveland, Ohio, and for several years worked on the Cleveland Herald, and by this time had not only learned the trade thoroughly and educated himself in the oflSce, but by economy and frugal habits had saved up some little means, and about this time he married a lady at the residence of Mr. David Hudson, in Hudson, Ohio, by the name of Miss Arietta

Agard, and by which marriage he had four children, two boys and two gills. I he oldest boy, Harry H., now has a Government ap¬ pointment as mail agent, from Pueblo, Colorado, to Silverton, Col¬ orado, and during the war served under Gen. Sherman. James P. was under Gen. John McNeal, of this State, and is now a resident of the San Juan country, in Colorado, and has acquired a handsome fortune. He represented this District in the State Senate in 1882, and was Deputy United States Maishal for three years in Missouri. Frances M. is married to Mr. John T. Barber, has left the mountains and now resides in Quincy, Illinois, and Laura M. is a citizen of Pueblo, Col- orado. After leaving Cleveland, Mr. Galloway, for some time, was Captain and ran a boat on the " raging canal," and finally settled down in Akron, Ohio, and commenced the publication of the now popular paper, Summit Beacon, which he conducted with success for four years and sold to good advantage. In 1837 he came to St. Louis, Missouri, which at that time had a population of 16,000 souls all told, and obtained a position in the Republican office under Col. George Knapp. After working there for four years he went up into Iowa and started the Iowa Observer, an old line Whig paper, which he published at Mount Pleasant, Iowa. While there the well-known Tom Bowen, of Colorado, now United States Senator and millionaire, became an apprentice under him and learned the trade. Selling out his paper at Mt. Pleasant, Mr. Galloway came to Missouri and bought a farm, which he conducted with success. But his old preference for journalism returned, and he sold his farm and established the North Missouri Messenger, a Republican paper, at Mexico, Missouri, which he carried on with great success for a period of six years. It was through his connection with this paper that Mr. Galloway became well known to the press of Missouri. It was soon apparent that a man of more than ordinary ability, both for successful management and the editorial work, was at the head of the Messenger . Asa writer he was distinguished for independence and vigor of thought, and for a terse, perspicuous style of expression. Writing short, pithy editorials, he seemed to go to the very heart of the question in a few sentences, and the impression he made was distinct and enduring. Having political convictions and preferences, he was, notwithstanding, per¬ fectly fair in his treatment of any party issues, and was the furtherest from being hide-bound, dogmatic or unjust in what he said. His paper, therefore, had a high reputation among the interior journals in the State, and was looked upon as an intelligent representative of public opinion. In 1871, Mr. Galloway lost his companion and shortly after retired from the newspaper field, and was married to Miss Lucinda C. Simmons, formerly of Venango county, Pennsylva¬ nia, on the 15th day of June, 1873 ; they now have one child, Mary. Mr. Galloway has since been living a quiet and respected life at Mex¬ ico. Running the Summit House, he of course has the intelligence and business qualities to make it a success, and it is one of the popu¬ lar hotels in the city. In his journalistic career he has left a good record, and peacefully retired full of gray hairs and no red tape. He is now in his seventy-second year, and probably the oldest printer in Missouri, having commenced the business in 1827. He has all his life lived temperate and totally free from tobacco, and to-day walks our streets with an unfaltering step and never used a cane, his health is good, and without some accident befalls him, we predict for him a long life.

James Garrett

of Gill & Garrett, dealers in agricultural implements, Champion reapers and mowers, self-binders, Racine wagons, Columbus buggies, etc., Mexico. Mr. Garrett, the junior member of the above named firm, was born in Kentucky, August 20, 1832, and when but two years of age, was brought out to Illinois by his parents, who removed to that State and settled at Rushville. His father, Richard Garrett, was a saddler by trade, and followed that occupation in Illinois for many years. He is still living, and is now a resident of Iowa, a hale old gentleman, closely approaching the allotted age of three-score and ten. The mother died in Illinois in 1855. James was principally reared in Illinois and received, as he grew up, a good common school educa¬ tion. When a young man he learned the tinner's trade and came to Mexico in 1855, and started a shop, which he carried on with success until 1862. After this he was engaged in various lines of business and has continued to reside in this city up to the present time. Since the formation of the present firm he has been identified with the agricul¬ tural implement business. Prior to this and following 1852 he worked for Mr. Ferris some eleven years, resuming business in 1873. In their present business Messrs. Gill & Garrett have been very success¬ ful, and, as stated in Mr. Gill's sketch, they have built up one of the leading houses in this line in the county. Mr. Garrett's life has been one of uninterrupted industry, and of honest and earnest effort to make his way in the world bv his own exertions and by fair and worthy methods. If, as the wisest of men has said, " he is the greatest ben¬ efactor of his race, who strives most by honest industry to contribute to the sustenance of his fellow-creatures," then the subject of the pres¬ ent sketch has lived a life worthy of honorable remembrance, and one that his children, and those who come after them, may well refer to as that of a worthy father and ancestor. Men are not to be judged by their success in accumulating property, but rather by the value of their services in making it, for it is by labor that the world thrives, and by the few hoarding what the many make, that suffering and great destitution result. Looking back over his life, Mr. Garrett has many pleasant recol¬ lections of kindnesses received as well as those done. At one time his property was destroyed by fire - his business house and all hepos- sed. This left him penniless and in debt, and he was greatly discour¬ aged. But a good man, John P. Clark, came forward and loaned him $300 without security, to begin with again. This was not only a noble evidence of the benefactor's generous heart, but was an eloquent testimonial to the high character the recipient bore among his neigh¬ bors. Time rolled on, and Mr. Garrett was able to return the money. He accordingly offered it, principal and interest, to his generous friend, but Mr. Clark refused to receive the interest, saying that he loaned the money simply as an act of kindness to help Mr. Garrett out of his misfortune. One act like this is worth all the prayers that ever split the air from the time of Adam to the present day. On the 28th of September, 1854, Mr. Garrett was married to Miss Eliza Hooton, of Palmyra, Missouri, but originally of Kentucky. They have six chil¬ dren: William H., Thomas O., James, Ernest, Georgia and Mary; Nannie died in 1863. Mr. Garrett was a member of the board of trustees of Mexico for 1857-8. He and wife are members of the Chris¬ tian Church.

Claibourne Renfro Gibbs

of Dobyns & Gibbs, dealers in drugs, medicines, paints, oils, glass and glass-ware, perfumery, cigars and tobacco, fine wines and liquors, etc., Mexico. Mr. Gibbs, a thoroughly experienced young druggist and popular young business man of this city, like many of the better class of citizens of Audrain county, is a native of the "Kingdom of Callaway," and he was born on the 25th of February, 1861. On both sides Mr. Gibbs comes of old and respected Virginia families, although his parents were from Kentucky and Missouri, respectively. His father, a native of Virginia, was reared in the Blue Grass State, and his mother, a native of Kentucky, was reared in Missouri. John A. Gibbs, the father, was a successful farmer and stock dealer of Callaway county, and was a man of far above average intelligence and of good education. He was an earnest member of the church and was a deacon in his denomination, taking a deep interest in its affairs, and being one of its most active members in the vicinity where he lived. He also took an intelligent interest in politics, and though having no personal ambition for official advancement, he exerted him¬ self zealously for the promotion of good men to the various positions of public trust, believing that in the purity and efficiency of public life lies the chief security and hope of our institutions. Young Gibbs' mother, whose maiden name was Mary A. Rothwell, was a daughter of Dr. John Rothwell, of Callaway county, now deceased, whose family is recognized as one of the best in North-east Missouri. Several of the Rothwell family have become prominent in their respective de¬ partments of life in this State. William Rothwell (an uncle ofyoung Gibbs) is now president of William Jewell College, while Hon. Gideon F. Rothwell recently represented the Moberly district in C011- giess ; and Dr. Thomas R. Rothwell is well known as a leading physician of this city. The history of this family is given on pp. 840, 841 and 842, of the " History of Callaway County" recently pub¬ lished. Claibourne R. Gibbs was reared on his father's farm in Callaway county, and was educated in the local schools and by in¬ struction from his parents at home, for his father, who took an active interest in school matters, and was for years director of his district, did not neglect the mental culture of his children ; while the mother was a lady of superior mind and culture, and devoted to the interests of her family, having a great ambition to see all her children succeed in life, not only in material affairs, but to occupy worthy positions by virtue of their intelligence and character in society. At the age of fifteen, young Gibbs began to learn the drug business, entering a drug store for that purpose, and from that day to this he has been con¬ tinuously identified with the business, now for a period of nearly eight years. Of an apt, quick mind, and active and attentive to business, he has, as would be expected, become one of the most capable young druggists at Mexico. For some years past he has been a partner in the above-named firm, which has a trade second in importance to that of no drug house in this city. Mr. Gibbs, though quite a young man, has accumulated by his own industry and intelligence, a neat start in life, and his future seems a more than ordinarily bright one. A conclusive evidence of this, as to his future, is presented in the fact which he states himself, that although he is not married, he is very anxious to be; and doubtless there is a whole battalion of luxurious and lovely young girls in striking distance, quite as anxious to sacrifice themselves at the altar of matrimony as he, so all that is necessary is a little diplomacy to bring him and one of the fair, lovely young dears together, in the presence, of course, of a holy man of God duly authorized to receive their vows and join them together, as in such eases made and pro¬ vided. Mr. Gibbs is a member of the A. O. U. W., and of the Military Company of this city.

Thomas M. Gill

of Gill & Garrett, dealers in agricultural implements, Champion reapers and mowers, self-binders, Racine wagons, Columbus bug¬ gies, etc., Mexico. Mr. Gill, the senior member of the above named firm, and who has been engaged in business in Mexico for the past ten years, was formerly a partner in the well known firm of Bridge, Beach & Co., of St. Louis, and began his business career with that firm, for whom he clerked for some fifteen years before becoming interested as a partner in the business. He was born in St. Louis county Septem¬ ber 18, 1839, and his father, John J. Gill, was for many years a suc¬ cessful business man, and also for some time engaged in farming. Thomas M. has been identified with business life from boyhood, but he did not commence his career regularly until he was about seven¬ teen years of age. Prior to that, although having some experience, his time was mainly occupied from early boyhood with attending school. He commenced with Bridge, Beach & Co. in 1856, and re¬ mained with them as a clerk until 1871. His long service with this prominent house would be sufficient evidence of his character, not only for integrity, but for business qualifications. But in addition to this, he became regarded with so much confidence and appreciation by his employers, who always had large numbers of worthy young men under them, that in preference to them all he was offered, and he accepted, a partnership interest in the business. By economy and steady habits, in a large city where temptations for extravagance and dissipation are met with on every hand, he saved up some means, so that when his identification with the firm as a partner became regarded as essential to his best interests, he was prepared to avail himself of the opportunity presented. But long years of hard work and confinement attaching to the responsible position he held with Bridge, Beach &Co. made serious inroads on his health, and a change became a necessity. He was advised to go to the country and engage in some business where his work would be lighter and he would have more out-door exercise. Accordingly, he sold out in St. Louis and came to Mexico in 1874. Here he engaged in his present business, and recuperating under the change, and liking his new business as well as Mexico and its people and surroundings, he has made this place his permanent home. His partner being also a business man of long experience and high character, they have naturally built up one of the leading houses in their line in this section of the State. They do a very large busi- ness, and their custom is steadily increasing. Their trade in reapers, etc., and wagons and buggies is especially large, for they carry the best goods in their lines to be had in the country. Mr. Gill comes of a highly respected St. Louis family, and when the time came for him to choose a life partner, one to preside over his home and minister to his domestic happiness, naturally he made his selection from a family not less respectable than his own, Miss Mollie Brooks, a young lady eminently worthy to be his wife, becoming his companion for life. She was a daughter of John T. Brooks, and a sister to Rev. John A. Brooks, the distinguished temperance lecturer and president of the pro¬ hibition organization, and an eminent divine, of this State. Mrs. Gill is a lady of marked force of character and superior culture and refine¬ ment, not less characterized for the sterling and philanthropic quali¬ ties that distinguish her noted brothers than they are themselves, though of course her sphere is that of the household and domestic affairs. Mr. and Mrs. Gill have three children : Fannie, Elizabeth and John J. Both parents are members of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Gill's parents are both living, both now residents of Mexico, and in the enjoyment of comparatively good health, at ripe old ages, the father born in 1812, and the mother, whose maiden name was Frances Evans, originally of Maryland, born in 1815.

George M. Gill

dealer in hardware, etc., Mexico. Mr. Gill, one of the youngest business men of Mexico, but who is at the head of by no means the smallest business house, is a native of St. Louis county, born June 20, 1858, and has been identified with the hardware business and kindred lines from youth up to the present time. It is not too much to say that in the hardware branch of the business, he is one of the best posted young business men in this section of the State. Since the establishment of his store here he has had marked success, and is steadily coming to the front as a leading business man in this line. He is rapidly increasing his stock, and his custom is widely extend¬ ing. Perhaps no business house in Mexico is increasing its trade in a ratio equal to his. Mr. Gill has had his own start to make mainly, and is deserving of more than ordinary credit for the record he has made in business affairs. He came to Mexico in 1874, when sixteen years of age and began clerking in the hardware store of his brother, Thomas M. Gill, with whom he remained for five years. He was then with the Simmons Hardware Company, of St. Louis, for one year, after which engaged in the business for himself at Vandalia. He was there of the firm of Gill & Garrett, where he continued until he came to Mexico, in 1883. Here the same firm lias continued business. They have a large and well selected stock of goods, and their house is one of the popular establishments in this line in Mexico. On the 2d of May, 1881, Mr. Gill was married to Miss Oilive McCune, of Pike county. Mr. and Mrs. Gill have one child, a little son, McCune * Gill. Mr. Gill is a member of none of the secret societies, his whole time thus far having been taken up with his business affairs. Mrs. Gill is a lady of exceptional refinement and of a most amiable dispo¬ sition, and was much esteemed where she was reared, being not less valued as a neighbor and acquaintance by those whom she has met during her residence at Mexico.

John J. Gilmer

farmer and stock raiser, was in boyhood when his parents removed from Kentucky to Missouri in 1831, and settled in Monroe county, near Paris. Mr. Gilmer was born near Harrodsburg, Kentucky, on the 8th of June, 1824. His father was James Gilmer, who came out from Virginia to Kentucky with his parents in an early day when quite young. Mr. Gilmer's mother, before her marriage, was a Miss Nancy Wilson. She was also originally from Virginia. The family lived in Monroe county until 1842, when the father came over into Au¬ drain county and settled about four miles south-east of Mexico, where he lived until his death, five years afterwards. The mother had died be¬ fore the family came to this county, in 1833. They had seven chil¬ dren, John G. being the 'only son. The daughters were Mary E., Louisa, Eliza, Emily, Sallie and Harriet. The eldest, Mary E., is unmarried, and makes her home with her brother John. Eliza died February 6, 1884. Louisa died unmarried, as did also Emily. Har¬ riet F. died whilst the wife of John F. Beatty, and Sallie A., who married Joseph Surber, died January 28, 1884. John J. Gilmer was in his seventeenth year when his parents removed to Audrain county, and he has since resided in this county. Farming has been his regu¬ lar occupation, and Mr. Gilmer has been satisfactorily successful in his chosen walk in life. He has an excellent farm of over 200 acres, and is giving considerable attention to stock raising, particularly horses and cattle. His horses are of the celebrated Missouri Clay and the Scottish breeds. He ships considerable numbers of cattle and hogs. On the 2d of February, 1853, Mr. Gilmer was married to Miss Pru- dence McGee, of Monroe county, a young lady of singular graces of mind and person and ot a most amiable disposition. But she survived her married life only a few months, dying before the flowers of her bridal wreath had scarcely withered. Mr. Gilmer has never married again, for in all the world he has never seen another who could oc¬ cupy the place in his heart made vacant by her death - no, not va¬ cant, for the memory of his buried love lingers there like a sweet dream, and will abide until the end. Mr. Gilmer is a plain, quiet home man, and cares little for the concerns beyond his own affairs and the duties of his own household, for he is devoted to the comfort and happiness of his sisters, who share his home, with the affection of a true brother.

Joseph A. Glandon

local agent of the United States and the Pacific Express Companies, Mexico. One among the most popular and efficient local officers in the express service in North-east Missouri is the subject of the present, sketch, Mr. Glandon. He was trained to the service from boyhood in the office of the superintendent of the U. S. Express Company at St. Louis, and was sent here by that officer because he wanted a per¬ fectly reliable and energetic agent at this place. Mr. Glandon is a native of Ohio, born at Cadiz, December 23, 1850. His father was a successful stock man, and Joseph A. had excellent school advantages. After a course in the public schools he attended Mt. Zion Academy in Washington county, Pennsylvania, to which the family had removed, and he also attended Birmingham College in that State. At the age of 18, young Glandon came to Missouri and located at St. Louis, where he obtained a situation in the office of the U. S. Express Company, as stated above. In 1876, Mr. Glandon was married to Miss Katie E. Martin, of this State. They have two children : Herbert and Agnes. Mr. Glandon has been at Mexico for several years, and has become well and favorably known to the business men of this place and to the community generally. His urbane manners and accommodating disposition, as well as his close and faithful attention to business, have recommended him to the good opinions of all with whom he has come in contact, and he is deservedly much esteemed and highly popular. He is a prominent member of the Masonic order, having taken both the Chapter and Commandery degrees. He is also a member of the United Workmen's order; also treasurer of the Audrain County Agricultural and Mechanical Society. He and his wife are worthy members of the M. E. Church South. Mrs.

Glandon is a lady of culture and refinement, and being of a lively disposition and an entertaining conversationalist, she is always a wel¬ come member of any social circle she chooses to enter. She is quite active in church work, and is greatly valued by the other members.

Horace W. Gleason

dealer in agricultural implements, Whitewater wagons, Courtland bug¬ gies, Walter A. Wood reapers, Rude Indiana drills, Peoria riding and walking plows, Buffalo Pitts threshers and steam engines, turbine wind¬ mills, Buckeye pumps, etc. Mr. Gleason, who, as the above catalogue of goods shows, is largely engaged in the agricultural implement and machinery business, is a native of New York, born in Chautauqua county, February 5, 1829. He was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools, but when eighteen years of age left the farm and came West, locating in Monroe county, Missouri. There he re¬ sumed farming and continued it for about fourteen years, having accumulated by this time a respectable start in life. In 1871 he came to Mexico and engaged in the hardware and machinery agency busi¬ ness, which he continued for eight years. He then sold out and was not in any special line of business for nearly three years, but in the spring of 1883 opened up his present establishment, which he has since conducted. Mr. Gleason, having been favorably known here as a business man and citizen for the last thirteen years, has every ad¬ vantage for carrying on with success an important business enterprise. Well known as a man of character, good business qualifications and an accommodating disposition, the custom in his line gladly patronize him when desiring to make purchases, for they feel assured that they can rely implicitly on what he tells them as to the quality of his goods, and they are not afraid of his chousing them by charging them extor¬ tionate prices. Thus it is that he has built up a large trade and is doing a flourishing business. The character of the goods he keeps is so well known that they need no recommendation, except their own use, which is now so general that they are in constant demand. Mr. Gleason has been twice married : first, in 1855, to Miss Anna Whitehill, formerly of Erie county, Pennsylvania. She died in 1879. Nearly four years afterwards, October 17, 1882, he was married to his pres¬ ent wife, formerly Miss Anna M. Whitely, originally of New York. Mr. and Mrs. Gleason are members of the Presbyterian Church, and he is a member of the Masonic order.