Clay County, Missouri - Biographical sketches, 1920 (part 4 of 10)

James P. Heifner, the well known druggist who for the past seventeen years has conducted a drug store at Missouri City, was born near Jacksonville, Randolph County, Missouri, August 27, 1868. He is a son of Jacob and Susan E. (Brock) Heifner, both now deceased.

Jacob Heifner was a native of Kentucky and an early settler in Missouri. He served in the Confederate army during the Civil War and participated in some of the notable engagements of that conflict, including the battle of Gettysburg. He went to California in 1848, and while en route, he camped in Clay County and here became acquainted with John A. Shouse, a Mexican War veteran, and they became very closely associated. They drove ox teams together and had many interesting pioneer experiences in common. Jacob Heifner died at the age of seventy-three years. His wife was a native of Macon County, Missouri, and a descendant of a pioneer family of that section. She died at the age of forty-eight years.

Jacob and Susan E. (Brock) Heifner were the parents of the following children: Rev. M. L. was a Missionary Baptist minister and died November 11, 1918, at the age of fifty-eight years; Mary E., died at the age of two years ; W. P., lives at Jacksonville, Missouri ; J. B., subject of this sketch ; George W., an employe of the Wabash Railroad at Mobei'ly, Missouri ; Minnie, married William Lamb, of Huntsville, Missouri ; and Edna E., married James Manning, of Moberly, Missouri.

James B. Heifner was educated in the public schools at Jacksonville, Missouri, and when a young man was the possessor of unusual talent in vocal music. He applied himself to the study of this art and when he was twenty-two years old, he began teaching vocal music and was successful in that vocation from the beginning. He taught music for thirteen years and during that time his work brought him over the states of Illinois, Nebraska and Kansas, as well as Missouri. He taught 2,367 pupils in Monroe County, Missouri. At a musical convention which he conducted at Leesburg, Missouri, there were over 7,000 people.

until 1917, when he moved to his present location. Mi*. Heifner passed the State Board of Pharmacy examination in 1911, and is a licensed pharmacist. He carries a complete line of drugs and druggist sundries and also sells pianos and other musical instruments. Mr. Heifner owns the building in which his store is located and also a good residence in Missouri City. He also owns twenty-five acres of valuable Missouri river bottom land in the vicinity of Missouri City, the operation of which he has found to be highly profitable. During the past season of 1920, he raised twelve acres of potatoes for which he received $4,800.00. He raises an early variety of potatoes knovm as the Early Ohio and used government certified seed. He also raised thirteen acres of com this season.

Mr. Heifner was married in 1904 to Miss Ruby E. Poison, of Moberly, Missouri. She is a daughter of Linley and Amanda Poison, the former of whom died at Cairo, Missouri, in August, 1919, and the latter, August 3, 1920, and their remains are buried at Moberly, Missouri. Mrs. Heifner has one brother and a sister: Harry Poison, of Moberly, Missouri; and Bemice, who married Harold Hutsel, of Moberly, Missouri.

Mr. Heifner is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Lodge No. 500, at Missouri City, Missouri, and is one of the progressive business men of this section.

Robert L. Kenyon, manager for Sears, Roebuck and Company of North Kansas City, Missouri, is one of the live progressive business men of this section. He was bom in Saline County, Missouri, August 2, 1885, a son of Charles and Hattie (Felkens) Kenyon.

Charles Kenyon was bom in Ray County, Missouri, and died at Forsythe, Missouri, in 1900, at the age of sixty-five years. He was a son of Captain Kenyon, a native of Virginia, who spent the latter years of his life in Richmond, Missouri, where he died. Captain Kenyon had the distinction of having served in two wars. He ran away from home when he was a boy and enlisted during the Mexican War and when the Civil War broke out, he enlisted in the Union aiTny and served throughout that conflict. Hattie (Felkens) Kenyon was born in Saline County, Missouri, and now resides at Forsythe, Missouri.

To Charles and Hattie (Felkens) Kenyon were born the following children: Joseph, lives on the home place at Forsythe, MissotJ*4; Robert L., the subject of this sketch; Allison, Estella, Bertie and RajTnond.

Missouri, and first entered the mercantile business at that place. He then came to Kansas City, Missouri, and entered the employ of the old Jones Dry Goods Company which has since been reorganized into the Jones Store Company. He was employed in the receiving department of that concern for seven years. On October 14, 1911, he entered the employ of Sears, Roebuck and Company and now has charge of the North Kansas City warehouse for that company.

Mr. Kenyon was married March 11, 1908, to Miss Mary C. Scott, of Carrollton, Missouri, and to that union have been bora two children, Delores Loretta and Etta May.

Mr. Kenyon is a member of the North Kansas City Commercial Club and was the first vice-president of that organization. He is a member of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons and the Modern Woodmen of America. He takes a commendable interest in local afl:"airs and has served two terms as a member of the North Kansas City council.

John Gragg, of the well known firm> of Nail and Gragg, leading grocers of North Kansas City, is a native son of Clay County and is a descendant of veiy early pioneer settlers of this section of Missouri. He was boiTi in Gallatin township, April 4, 1878, a son of Ben Long and Martha E. (Bryant) Gragg.

Ben Long Gragg was born in Platte County, Missouri, in 1846, and died in 1911, and his remains are buried at Barry, Missouri. He is a son of John and Elizabeth (Ford) Gragg. Jol^n Gragg came to Missouri and settled in Platte County with his parents in 1814, and they were among the very first settlers in this part of the state. Martha E. (Bryant) Gragg was born in Louisville, Kentucky, and came to Missouri with her parents, Louis and Jemima Bryant, who were early settlers here and both now deceased. Mrs. Gragg lives on her old home place, eight miles north of North Kansas City, where she has lived for the past thirty years. Ben Long and Martha E. (Bryant) Gragg were the parents of the following children: Louis Mahala, married Harry Griffith, Liberty, Missouri; John, the subject of this sketch; Jefferson Jerome, who is engaged in the insurance business at Colorado Springs, Colorado ; and Ben, lives on the home place in Gallatin township.

John Gragg was reared in Clay County and educated in the Faubion School District in Gallatin township. He was successfully engaged in farming and stock raising near Gashland until 1920, when in February, he rented his farm and in August, 1920, he engaged in the grocery and meat business in partnership with Edgar Nail, under the firm name of Nail and Gragg. They are both enteri>rising business men and are doing a good business.

December 8, 1897, John Gragg was married to Miss Lena Belle Nail, a daughter of George and Elizabeth Nail, further mention of whom is made in connection with the sketch of Edgar Nail in this volume. To Mr. and Mrs. Gragg have been bom one daughter, Lucile, who married John Johnson, a farmer, who resides near Parkville, Missouri, and they have one son, John Johnson, Jr., who was born December 27, 1916.

James R. Scott, a well known and prosperous farmer and stockman of Platte township, is a native son of Clay County and a member of one of the pioneer families of this part of the state. He was bom on the farm where he now resides in Platte township, February 25, 1848, and is a son of Washington and Ruth Ann (Duncan) Scott.

Washington Scott was a Kentuckian, bom in that state in 1812, and was reared to manhood there and maiTied. In 1840 he came to Missouri with his wife and settled in Clay County. Here he settled in Platte township where he bought a farm of 240 acres and carried on general farming and stock raising during the remainder of his life. He was a successful man of affairs and at the time of his death he was the owner of 412 acres of land. He died February 6, 1857. His wife was also a native of Kentucky; she died on the home place in Platte township in 1864. They were the parents of nine children, as follows : Mary E., deceased; John W., of Smith ville, Missouri, a sketch of whom appears in this volume with a more extensive history of the Scott family : Israel L., deceased; Washington W., deceased; Ruth A., deceased; James R., the subject of this sketch; Sarah J., deceased; Nancy F., deceased; and Ida, J., deceased.

James R. Scott was reared on the home farm in Platte township, and attended the district school. He remained at home and assisted his parents as long as they lived. In 1868 he rented a fai-m in partnership with his brother, John W., north of Smithville. In 1872 he bought 80 acres of the home place and later he bought more land until he is now the owner of 356 acres of valuable land and has one of the best farms in Platte township. He cairies on general farming and stock raising and has been successful in his undertakings. He is a member

Jamks R. Scott

On November 20, 1872, James R. Scott was united in marriage with Miss Rose Ann Aker, a daughter of Martin J. and Nan (Rollins) Aker, both natives of Kentucky, and now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Scott have been born the following children : Jennie, deceased ; Martin A., lives in Clay County; Sue C, resides at home; Richard W., resides at home; Stella W., married D. W. Bronaugh, and they live in Clay County; James A., Jr., lives in Texas; John W., deceased; Agnes J., married E. P. Merritt, Wynne, Arkansas; Ruth A., deceased; Rose Lee, married Warren Hall, Weston, Missouri; and Ira Henry, died in infancy.

Mr. and Mrs. Scott are members of the Christian Church. He is a Democrat and belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and Mrs. Scott is a member of the Rebeccas. The Scott family is well known in western Clay County and stand high in the community.

Rice Emmett Hall, a well known contractor and builder who also operates a planing mill at Liberty. Missouri, is a native of this state. He was bom in Clay County, February 12, 1875, and is a son of John Will Hall and Mary Ellen (Burbette) Hall.

John Will Hall was also a native of Clay County, born about two miles northwest of Liberty, January 28, 1844. He was a son of John Hall, a Kentuckian, who settled in Liberty township, Clay County, in the early thirties and followed contracting and building and also improved a farm in Liberty township. John Will Hall was also a contractor from early manhood until the time of his death. He took a prominent part in local affairs during his career. He served two terms as recorder of deeds of Clay County and was mayor of Liberty several terms.

When the Civil War broke out, John Will Hall enlisted in the Confederate aiTny and served for four years under Gen. Sterling Price. He was wounded three times while in the service. He was one of the Clay County boys who helped construct the breastworks at William Jewell College during the early part of the war. He died at Liberty in 1916, and his remains are buried in Fairview cemetery. His widow now resides at Liberty. She was born in Vii-ginia in 1850.

To John Will and Mary Ellen (Burbette) Hall were born the following children: Rice Emmett, the subject of this sketch; Harry L., a carpenter, who lives at Liberty. Missouri; Sarah, married Willard P. King,

Fort Worth, Texas; Nellie Will, married Morris G. Gordon, Fort W'orth, Texas; Oscar B.. the eldest of the family died in 1910 at the age of forty-

"""^ RkrEmmett Hall was educated in the public schools of Liberty, attending the high school from which he was graduated He was brought up in L building business, learning the carpenter trade with his father before he reached his majority. He soon followed m the footsteps of his father and grandfather and soon became a contractor and bu.Me, which he has successfully followed. He has built a number of the bes residences in Liberty, including the Christian parsonage and residences of Samuel Webber, John L. Allen, Ed Watkins, L. W. Hicks and at presen is erecting a residence for W. W. Dougherty. The three generations of Halls have perhaps, erected over half the buildings in Liberty. Mr. Hall flsl bunds s'ilos for the Crates Silo Company of Kansas City. Missoun, and does a great deal of work for that company. ^ ^ r.

Rice E Hall was married December 16, 1914, to Miss Catherme Benson, of Smithville, Missouri. She is a daughter of James F. and Margaret M (Ar-buckle) Benson. Mrs. Hall is one of the following chiMren born to her parents: Mrs. Robert Robertson, Smithville, Missouri; Mrs^ Clara Lew Pardee; Mrs. Emma Johnson, Pratt, Kansas; WUham Benson Smithville, Missouri; and Catherine, the wife of Rice E. Hall, the sub,ect

Mr Hall is a member of the Knights of Pythias, Lodge No. 174, ot Liberty, Missouri. He is a substantial progressive and enterprising citizen.

Edgar Nail, a member of the firm of Nail and Gragg, progressive and enterprising merchants of North Kansas City, Missouri, who conduc one of the leading grocery stores of that thriving to.^. -J^Jj^^- « Clay County. He was born in Gallatin township, near Big Shoal Baptist Church, November 14, 1873, and is a son of George and Ann E. (Baker)

^^" George Nail was also born in Gallatin township, near Randolph. He was a son of William and Morning (Harrison) Nail, nati^'es of \ irgmia. They were eariy settlers in Clay County and located on a farm near Ran^ dolph The place is now owned by the Meffert heirs. George Nail died at his home near Big Shoal church at the age of sixtj^eight years^ Ann (Baker) NaU was bom in Madison County, Kentucky, a daughter of

Jonah Baker, who were early settlers in Gallatin township, locating on a farm adjoining Big Shoal church on the south. Mi's. Nail now resides at Welch, Oklahoma, and is seventy-six years old.

To George and Ann E. (Baker) Nail were born the following children: Ernest, a farmer and stockman, Welch, Oklahoma; Nora, married Lee Kelsey, North Kansas City, Missouri ; Edgar, the subject of this sketch ; Carry, Welch, Oldahoma ; Rose, married Waller Woods, Seattle, Washington ; Lena, married John Gragg, member of the firm of Nail and Gragg, North Kansas City, Missouri; and Ozella, Welch, Oklahoma.

Edgar Nail was reared on the home farm, and educated in the public schools of Clay County. He engaged in farming and stock raising in early life and was successfully engaged in that line of endeavor until he engaged in the mercantile business at North Kansas City, August 23, 1920, in partnership with John Gragg. This firm carries a complete line of groceries and also have a meat department in which they carry all kinds of fresh and canned meats. They are located in the Pioneer Building and their business occupies a frontage of twenty-five feet and seventyfive feet deep and also a basement. They have had a good patronage from the start and their many customers appreciate their dependable goods and square dealing.

Mr. Nail was maiTied September 6, 1919, to Miss Mina Wilkerson, a daughter of William and Bettie Wilkerson of Smithville, Missouri, and natives of Clay County. To Mr. and Mrs. Nail have been bom two sons : Claude and Arthur.

Mr. Nail is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He has been a lifelong Democrat and has taken an active part in political matters. He is the present chairman of the Democratic County Central Committee of Clay County.

Ambrose Lancaster, a progressive farmer and stockman of Liberty township, is a member of one of the pioneer families of Clay County. He was bom in Liberty township, December 24, 1872, and is a son of John Samuel and Kittle (Price) Lancaster, a sketch of whom appears in this volume.

Ambrose Lancaster was reai^ed on the home fai'm and educated in the public schools. He became familiar with farming and stock raising in early life and since his boyhood he has been interested in that vocation.

He operates about 150 acres of the home place and also conducts a farm of seventy acres of which he is the owner. He and his father and his brother, James, have been engaged in the breeding business in addition to their other fanning operations, for the past forty years. John Samuel Lancaster began breeding pure bred Poland China hogs over forty years ago, and he and his sons have been breeding pure bred Hereford cattle for over thirty years. Ambrose Lancaster operates a thi-eshing outfit during the threshing season and the past season he has threshed 25,000 bushels of wheat and 8,000 bushels of oats.

January 1. 1901, Ambrose Lancaster was married to Miss Gertrude E. Moberly, a daughter of Simeon and Sarah Moberly of Liberty, Missouri. Simeon Moberly died at the age of seventy-five years and his remains were buried in the old Liberty Church cemetery and his widow now resides in Liberty. To Mr. and Mrs. Lancaster have been born the following children: John B., Julius M., Ambrose M., Sarah, Myra and Leslie R.

Mr. Ambrose is a Democrat and in 1918 was a candidate for the nomination to the office of county collector. He is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America, having been a member of that lodge for twenty-six years. He also holds membership in the Knights of Pythias and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows lodges.

John Samuel Lancaster, one of the older pioneer residents of Clay County, still resides in Liberty township which has been his home for sixty-three years. He was bozm in Jassimine County, Kentucky, November 2, 1835, a son of Mason S. and Polly (Collins) Lancaster, both natives of Kentucky and now deceased. Mason S. Lancaster came to Clay County in 1866 and died here in 1884. His wife died in Kentucky in 1852. They were the parents of the following children: John Samuel, the subject of this sketch; Mrs. W. E. Sallee, deceased; Mrs. Bettie Van Dyke, of Liberty, Missouri; Lewis, of Excelsior Springs; and Ambrose D., deceased.

John Samuel Lancaster was reared in Kentucky and received his education in private schools. In 1857, when he was twenty-two years old, he came to Clay County and worked for his uncles, John and George Collins. He was in their employ for sixteen months and received twenty dollars a month. In 1860, he bought eighty acres of land for which he paid twenty dollars an acre. Later, he sold that place and bought 178 acres for thirty dollars an acre. In 1888, he traded that farm for 300 acres which is located five miles northeast of Liberty, in Liberty township. This is one of the valuable and well improved farms in Clay County, and all of the improvements have been placed there by Mr. Lancaster. There is a good residence on the place which was built in 1903, and the other buildings about the place are of a substantial character and kept in good condition. Mr. Lancaster has retired from the active operation of the farm and turned the responsibilities of its care and operation over to his son, Ambrose Lancaster.

January 6, 1859, John S. Lancaster was married to Miss Kittle Price, of Platte County, Missouri, a daughter of James and Mary (Elliott) Price, natives of Kentucky, the former of Harrison and the latter of Woodford County. James Price died in Platte County, Missouri, and his wife died at Liberty. Mrs. Lancaster had one brother, William Price, who was a veteran of the Civil War, having serv^ed in the Confederate army under General Price and is now deceased. Another brother, James T. Price, who also served in the Confederate army during the Civil War, now lives at Liberty, Missouri.

To Mr. and Mrs. John Samuel Lancaster have been bom the following children : James Mason Lancaster, Olathe, Kansas ; George C, deceased; Lena, married John Vinton Wilson, and they live near Chandler; Eudora, man-ied John H. Funk, Liberty, Missouri; Leslie, a farmer in Fishing River township ; Ambrose, who farms the home place : Fannie, who resides on the home place.

Mr. and Mrs. Lancaster celebrated their golden wedding anniversary, January 6, 1909, and many of their old friends and acquaintances were present to do honor to this venerable couple on that occasion.

Mr. Lancaster is a member of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, having been made a Mason at Salvisa, Kentucky, in 1866. Later he got a transfer to Barry, Missouri, and still later one to the Masonic Lodge at Liberty, Missouri. He is one of the substantial and highly esteemed pioneer settlers of Clay County, and the Lancaster family is one of the representative families of this section.

Charles Pence, a prominent citizen of Liberty township, belongs to an early pioneer family of this section of Missouri. He was bom in Platte County, May 3, 1861, a son of Henry Clay and Virginia (Ligon) Pence.

He was a large slave holder and prominent in the early day affairs of this county. He was a man of fine abiUty and excellent character. Henry Clay Pence is now deceased and his. widow resides in King City, Missouri, at the age of eighty-seven years. She is a descendant of Colonial ancestors. Her mother, Eliza Atkinson, was a direct descendant of Colonel William Mayo, of Revolutionary fame.

The following children were born to Henry Clay and Virginia (Ligon) Pence: William Franklin, San Fienando, Calif omia; Mary Eliza, married James Wallace, who died at Pueblo, Colorado ; Henry, died in Dekalb . County, in 1902 ; Augustus, a successful farmer and stockman of Dekalb County! Missouri; Charles, the subject of this sketch; G. B., a hardware merchant at King City, Missouri, was formerly a member of the Legislature from Dekalb County; George, died at Florence, Colorado; Martha, married J. R. Berry, King City, Missouri ; and Octa, died at the age of eleven years.

Charles Pence was educated in the public schools of Platte and Dekalb counties and for twelve years he was engaged in the mercantile business at Grower, Missouri. In 1903, he settled on a farm in Liberty township, where he has since devoted his attention to general fanning and stock raising. The Pence farm is one of the historic old places of Clay County and was formerly the Lewis Lancaster farm.

Charles Pence was married March 22, 1883, to Miss Genie Vermilion. Prior to her marriage, Mrs. Pence was prominent in educational work and a well known and successful teacher in Clinton and Dekalb counties. She is a daughter of William Henry and Marie Catherine (Furse) Vermilion. William Henry Vermilion hved in Daviess County, Missouri, when the Civil War broke out. He enlisted in the Confederate amiy and died while in the service. During the war his widow came to Clay County where she was a prominent teacher for a number of years. She was an accomplished woman of unusual ability. Maria Cathrine Furse Vermilion was married a second time to Rev. William W. TiUerj-, a Primitive Baptist minister. They removed to Clinton County and she now resides at St. Joseph, Missouri, with her daughter, Grace, wife of Judge Thomas B. Allen. To Mr. and Mrs. Charles Pence have been born four children as follows: Henry Clay, born October 15, 1884, is now deceased; Charles Edgar, bom April 10, 1886; Fannie Catherine, bom September 7, 1888, is now deceased ; and Anna Grace, at home.

from the Gower High School, he entered William Jewell College, where he was graduated with the degree of Batchelor of Arts in the class of 1908. He was then principal of the Doniphan High School and afterwards attended Chicago University. He was then elected to the chair of Latin and Greek in the Hai"vard School for Boys at Chicago and is at ' present one of the owners of that institution. The Harvard School is one of the exclusive schools for boys of Chicago and is one of the old educational institutions of high standing in that city. It is regarded as one of the best schools of its kind in the West. It was founded in 1886. Charles Edgar Pence mairied Miss Mary Elizabeth Martin, a daughter of Dr. C. H. Martin, of St. Joseph, Missouri.

Anna Grace Pence was graduated at the Liberty Ladies College in 1913. She then attended the University of Missouri and was graduated from that institution with the degree of Batchelor of Arts in 1917. She then taught Latin and History at Granby, Missouri, and was later principal of the Kearney High School for one year. She then returned to the University of Missouri, receiving her Masters degree in 1919 and now occupies the chair in Latin at Trinity University, Waxahachie, Texas.

Robert H. Connell, a prominent farmer and stockman of Gallatin township and a former county judge of Clay County, was bom in Leavenworth County, November 4, 1856. He is a son of Jesse and Mary (Johnson) Connell, both natives of Kentucky, the former born in Trimble County and the latter in Woodford County.

Jesse Connell settled in Platte County, Missouri, in the early forties. Later he removed to Leavenworth County, Kansas, where he remained during the Civil War and until 1875. He then settled in Gallatin township, Clay County, where he bought a farm and was engaged in farming and stock raising until 1880. He then went to Bates County, Missouri, and spent the remainder of his life in that county. While a resident of Bates County, he was elected presiding judge of the county court and sei'ved in that capacity until the time of his, death, in 1892. His remains are buried at Butler, Missouri. His widow survived him for a number of years and died in Leavenworth County, Kansas, in 1914, and her remains are buried by the side of her husband at Butler, Missouri.

Jesse and Mary (Johnson) Connell were the parents of the following children: Robert H., the subject of this sketch; Nannie, married L. S. Watkins, Liberty, Missouri ; Jack, died at Centerview, Missouri, in 1918,

Robert H. Connell was reared in Leavenworth County, Kansas, and educated in the public schools. When he was eighteen years old, he came to Clay County with his parents and when twenty-one years old he^ engaged in farming and stock raising for himself. In 1896, he bought his present place one and three-fourths miles southeast of Linden, in Gallatin township. He owns eighty-four acres of valuable land which is improved with substantial buildings. Judge Connell carries on general fanning and stock raising with a special aim to raising pure bred stock. He raises Shorthorn cattle and Shropshire sheep, keeping i-egistered males at the head of his herd and flock.

Judge Connell was married July 2, 1884, to Miss Emma J. Groseclose, a daughter of Eli and Louise (Harmon) Groseclose, both natives of Virginia. Mr. Groseclose is now eighty-six years of age. His wife died in 1918. Mrs. Connell is one of five children born to her parents, the others being as follows: Ballard, Kansas City, Missouri; Davis, lives in Linden, California; Richard, Pulaski, Virginia; and Mrs. Gertie Wilson, North Kansas City, Missouri. To Judge and Mrs. Connell have been bom two children: Willie B., died at the age of six years and one child died in

Robert H. Connell is a Democrat and has always taken an interest in political matters. In 1904, he was elected county judge of Clay County and re-elected to that oflSce in 1906 and gave the people of Clay County a highly satisfactory administration. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Liberty, Missouri.

George W. Wagner, a successful fanner and stockman of Gallatin township, is a native of Virginia. He was bora in Bland County, January 27, 1857, a son of Jacob and Ann (Harmon) Wagnei-, both now deceased. Jacob Wagner serv'ed in the Confederate Araiy, a member of the Eighth Virginia Cavalry, under Captain Thomas Harmon. After serving two years he was discharged on account of poor health, and for three years thereafter was practically an invalid. While doctoring himself he became interested in medicine and took up the study of that profession and practiced medicine for several years in Virginia. He died in Washington County, Virginia, at the age of seventy-five years, and his wife died in Bland County, Virginia, age thirty-eight years.

To Jacob and Ann (Harmon) Wagner were bom the following children: Ellas Henry, better knovm aa "Charley", of Liberty, Missouri; Eli P., lives in Nebraska; George W., the subject of this sketch; Alice, married James Hubble, of Smith County, Virginia ; Hezikiah, a farmer in Gallatin township; Amanda V., married Piper Naff, of Roanoke, Virginia; Ardelia Abby, married Fisher Gearing, Bland Court House, Virginia; W. G., Gallatin township; and Willie Stewart, died in infancy.

George W. Wagner was reared on a farm, and in 1882 came to Clay County, Missouri. His entire outfit consisted of a grip and fifty dollars in money. He began here by working by the month for eighteen dollars a month. He was thus engaged for eighteen years when he made his first purchase of land. He bought forty acres upon his present home site. Later he bought 100 acres more, and is now the owner of 140 acres of well improved farm land, in one body. His place is well improved with a good residence and other farm buildings of a substantial character. He is successfully can-ying on general farming and raises hogs, sheep and cattle. His place is well adapted to both stock raising and the production of grain.

Mr. WagTier was married, April 24, 1901, to Miss Willie Wisler, a daughter of Lsaac and Dosia (Gabbert) Wisler. Isaac Wisler was a Union veteran of the Civil War and after the war he settled in Gallatin township, where he spent the remainder of his life. His remains are nowburied in the Little Shoals Church cemetery. His widow resides at Troy, Kansas. Mrs. Wagner is one of four children bom to her parents, the others being aa follows: Guy D., Troy, Kansas; Evalena, married Doc. Perkins, of Gallatin township ; and Miss Dee Wisler, of Troy, Kansas. To Mr. and Mrs. Wagner was bom one child, Anna Frances, who died in infancy.

Mr. and Mrs. Wagner have an extensive acquaintance and stand high in the community. They are members of the Mt. Ollivett Christian Church. He is a stockholder of the Linden Bank of Linden, Missouri.

Robert S. Withers. - -The Withers family i.s one of the pioneer I'amilies of Clay County, Missouri, and belongs to that very small claas having the unique distinction of living for four generations at the same homestead. While progx-essiveness in the usual material sense has been characteristic of the Withers family, an equally iileasant distinction has been its observance of the fine old traditions of a long line of American

For eighty-six years "Withers Farm", located two miles southwest of Liberty Missouri, has been the home of the Withers people and m that period its changes and improvements have corresponded with the development of the county. In 1834, the log cabin was erected as a temporary shelter; in 1842, a commodious frame house was built after the fashion of the day. This house still stands and is admired for its beautiful walnut woodwork, massive mantel and hand-carved stairway. In 1892 Conn Withers built a new frame house in the same yard and to . this home his son, Robert Withers, has added modem conveniences m the way of hardwood floors, a water system and electric lights. The home has a beautiful setting in the midst of giant elms and hard maples. In early days hemp was one of the most profitable crops, but the cultivation of that passed with the passing of the slaves, though after the Civil War all, save one of the negroes, returned to find work and homes with the old master. Today, there is a greater variety of crops. Grass, corn, wheat, tobacco and alfalfa bring in their returns and help to make life on the farm attractive. ^ .

Cultural and refining elements have kept pace with the material progress of the family. The library shows a large and well-selected collection of books, the piano and victrola bear company with the ancient guitar The present owner, Robert Withers, is a collector of weapons and historical relics and has in his cases one of the most valuable assortments of guns, knives and spears of various peoples to be found in any private home in this section. The Withers men and their waives have been college-bred people. Only one son of each generation has continued to live on the farm, the others having chosen business and professional

Abijah Withers, the pioneer of the family in Clay County, was born in Fauquier County, Virginia, of an old Colonial family, ^^ ^''^\ ^^ emigrated to Kentucky about 1825, and there met and niarried Prudence Blackburn White, August 10, 1830. She was a daughter of Wilham White and Mildred Blackburn and was bom in Woodford County, Kentucky November 16, 1809. Her mother, Mildred Blackburn, was a daughter of George Blackbum and Prudence Bury Blackburn, who emigrated to Kentucky in 1786 over the "Old Wilderness Ti-ail". George Blackburn was born in Hanover County, Virginia.

In 1834, Abijah Withers, with one slave, came to Missouri and bought the land in Clay County which has since been known as "Withers Farm". After building log cabins to house his family and servants, he left his faithful slave, "Merit", in charge and returned to Kentucky in 1835, to bring his wife and three sons to Missouri.

Nine children were born to Abijah and Prudence Withers: (1) William Thomas Withers, born in Kentucky, August 3, 1831, died of brain fever brought on by too close application to his law studies, August 8, 1855, at Weston, Missouri; (2) George Samuel Withers, born in Kentucky, May 13, 1833, married Mollie E. Newman in Weston, August 29, 1857. He was a lawyer and an orator of local renown. He died at Liberty and was buried there; (3) Conn Withers, born in Kentucky, September 22, 1835, married Ella Esther McCoun in Liberty, August 6, 1872, and died at Rochester, Minnesota, January 17, 1906. He was buried at Liberty. Conn Withers was the one of his generation to carry on "Withers Farm", having bought it from his father early in the '70s. In his day he was one of the solid men of the community, known everywhere for his fine neighborly qualities, good judgment and sound opinions; (4) Webster Withers, born in Clay County, Missouri, January 29, 1837^ married Cara Lee in Kansas City, Missouri, October 31, 1868. He died and was buried in Kansas City, where he was in turn a commission merchant, a banker, internal revenue collector, railroad receiver and capitalist - one of the men who helped to make Kansas City; (5) Albert F. Withers, born in Clay County, Missouri, October 22, 1839. He was killed in the Confederate service at Carthage. Missouri, being the first man of his company to die; (6) Edwin Ruthven Withers, born in Clay County, Missouri, January 15, 1842, married Julia Miller, February 3, 1874. He is a retired farmer and resides in Liberty, Missouri; (7) Mildred E. Withers, bom at "Withers Farm", March 4, 1845, man-ied Dudley M. Steele, of St.' Joseph, Missouri, died August 16, 1894, and was buried in St. Joseph; (8) Julia Withers, bom November 22, 1850, at the farm near Liberty, married R. J. Stone, Februaiy 3, 1874, and now lives in Liberty; (9) Kate Blackburn Withers, born in Clay County, Missouri, July 2, 1852, died unmarried in July, 1879.

92nd Of the same year and the home place came into the complete posses- ;fon of Com. Withers, who had bought it from his father several years

'^'"conn Withers' wife, Ella McCoun Withers, taught school for a short time previous to her marriage. Her father, William McCoun, was State Senator from the district which included Clay County. Her mother, V^na Peters McCoun, conducted a school in Liberty with |reat success during her widowhood. Her father, John R. Peters, was a State Senator and her grandfather, Richard P. Simms, was a Revolutionary sold er , under GeSral Washington and is buried seven miles -rth ^f Ube^^^^ ^1912 a Revolutionary marker was placed at the grave of Richard P. Simms by his great gi-eat grandson, Robert S. Withers.

To Conn a^d Ella McCoun Withers three children were born, al of whom are still living: (1) Robert Steele Withers, bom April 19 1875, Whom are hun uving ^ ' <. o i«7q further mention of whom is

(2) Webster Withers, bom August 8, 1878, further mention o lade in this volume; (3) Kate Blackbum Withers, bom January 19, 1881. ZtZ AMn W Lightbume in August, 1906, and resides on a fai-m near

"^'Tobert Steele Withers received his education in the Liberty public .ehooTir at William Jewell College, ^^in. been a mem^^^^^^^^^^ .f iRQR nt the latter He was a member of the Phi Gamma ueiia n^ JrX Lite atarrand histoT were hi, favorite »«'- -^^^1'% ^"^ SaTtaiem wa. dra^n.. Had not '^TTZ^.T^tL^^-

'- i - nt-ti^e and e.n. .«^ «nt He was a member of the Missouri State Council of Defense, fhatman of he CiT; County Council of Defense and County Food Ad chairman o Ua^omc lodge. Blue Lodge No. 31,

John Johnson, a Revolutionary soldier of Virginia. (1) John Johnson was born in Virginia in 1740, married Annie Honeycut in 1781, and died in Garrard County, Kentucky, January 25, 1827. (2) Margaret Johnson, their daughter, was born in Virginia, in 1797, married Joseph Ryman in Kentucky and died' in Lyon County, Kansas, February 27, 1879. (3) Joseph Granville Ryman, their son, was born near Lexington, Kentucky, February 27, 1824, married Nancy Buchanan Turley, near Concord, Morgan County, Illinois, on March 17, 1850, and died at the home where he had lived almost sixty years, on April 11, 1908. (4) Margaret Elizabeth Ryman was born in Morgan County, Illinois, December 25, 1855 and on August 18, 1878, married Benjamin F. Massie, who was born February 14, 1854, in Cass County, Illinois, also of Virginia-Kentucky stock. From this union were born two children, Byron Granville Massie on November 5, 1879, and Alice Ethel on the date mentioned above.

Ethel Massie Withers attended country schools in Illinois and Missouri, spent three years in Woodland College at Independence, Missouri, graduating with highest honors in 1898, and then had four years at the Missouri State University, receiving her A.B. degree there in 1903. Three years of teaching history in the Liberty High School preceded her marriage to Robert Steele Withers. From January, 1911, to January, 1914, she served as regent of Alexander Doniphan Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, and in addition to serving on vai'ious national and state committees in that organization, was State Historian from October, 1915, to October, 1917. While holding that office she prepared an illustrated lecture on "Pioneering in Missouri". This was given in many towns in the state and now the slides and manuscript are with the Missouri State Historical Society at Columbia.

During the World War, she was chairman of the Clay County Woman's Committee Council of Defense and in that capacity served particularly in Liberty Loan and Thrift Campaigns, in Food Conservation, in Child Welfare Work and in the Red Cross. 1920 brought her into the field of politics as Democratic Committeewoman for Liberty township and the campaign of education carried on for two months resulted in practically all the women of the towTiship going to the polls ready to vote intelligently.

The children boin to Robert Steel Withers and Ethel Massie Withers are: (1) Conn Withers, born September 25, 1907, the male representative of the fourth generation to live on "Withers Farm". (2) Margaret Withers, bom July 29, 1910.

Though the Withers men have always allied themselves with the moral element of the community and have stood for the best in citizenship, they have not been church members. Always the women have had church affiliations, Ethel Massie Withers and her two children being members of the Presbyterian church at Liberty.

In each generation the Withers family has stood for the best in the community. The Withers home has been noted for its charming hospitality and memories of almost a hundred years have made of "Withers Farm" a county landmark.

Ed Jamison, proprietor of "Riverview Farm", located two and onehalf miles from Liberty, is one of the progressive farmers and stockmen of Liberty to\\Tiship. He was born in Nodaway County, Missouri, JanuaiT 19, 1876, and is a son of Jasper and Ceha (Stephenson) Jamison.

Jasper Ne\\i;on Jamison was a native of Missouri, bora in Callaway County, of pioneer parents, and spent his life in this state. He died in 1911 and his remains were buried at Excelsior Springs. Celia (Stephenson) Jamison was also a native of Missouri and died in Nodaway County in 1877, and her remains are buried at Maryville, Missouri. They were the parents of three children as follows : Mrs. Minnie Korell, of Culbertson, Nebraska; Mrs. Cora Gant lives in Caldwell County, Missouri, and Ed Jamison, the subject of this sketch.

Ed Jamison was educated in the public schools of Barnard, Missouri, and in Nebraska, and in Caldwell County, Missouri. He mad© his own way in life from a very early age. When he was a young man, he entered the employ of William Lile, of Excelsior Springs. He .saved his money and soon began his independent career as a farmer and stockman. Four years later he engaged in the dairj- business at Excelsior Springs and for ten years devoted himself to that business. He purchased his present farm, which is known as "Riverview Fann". in 1919. This is one of the valuable and well improved farms of Clay County and contains 193 acres. Mr. Jamison carries on general farming and stock raising and has been successful in his undertakings. "Riverview Fai-m" has valuable improvements including a good seven room residence, a large bara and other buildings, all of which are lighted with electricity and have modern conveniences and equipment.

September 3, 1906, Ed Jamison was manned to Miss Myrtle Elizabeth Ligon, a daughter of John and Cenie (Creek) Ligon, the former of whom is deceased and the mother resides with her children. To Mr. and

Ross H, Clutter, operator and agent for the Wabash Railroad Company, at South Liberty, Missouri, is one of the veteran employees of that company and has been in its employ for thirty years. He is the second oldest telegraph operator in point of years of service on the western division of the Wabash railroad.

Mr. Clutter was born in Green County, Pennsylvania, February 7, 1869, a son of Henry and Abbie (Hedge) Clutter, both natives of Pennsylvania. The mother died in that state in 1894 at the age of fifty-one years, and the father now lives at Washington, Pennsylvania, and is seventy-three years old. They were the parents of the following children: Ross H., the subject of this sketch; Richard, an iron-worker, of Massillon, Ohio; Miss Lula Clutter, of Washington, Pennsylvania; Mrs. Lizzie Morris, deceased; and Mrs. Nellie Hughes, Washington, Pennsylvania.

Ross H. Clutter was educated in the public schools at Martinsburg, Missouri, and when he was twenty-one years old, attended the Southn western Telegraph School at St. Louis, Missouri. After completing the course there he accepted a position as night operator on the Wabash railroad at Clifton Hill, Missouri. From there he went to Willis, Michigan, and then to Martinsburg, Missouri, Kirksville and Cairo, as extra operator. He was stationed at Norbome, Missouri, about ten months and for the past tuenty-seven years he has been agent and operator at South Liberty. Mr. Clutter has been in the employ of the Wabash Railroad Company since November 30, 1891.

November 27, 1895, Ross H. Clutter was married to Miss Maggie McLennan, of Liberty Landing. She is the daughter of Daniel and Mary (McKenzie) McLennan, both natives of Scotland and now deceased. Mrs. Clutter was born at Steeleville, Crawford County, Missouri. She was reared in Clay County and attended the Ruth Ewing school in Liberty township. To Mr. and Mrs. Clutter have been bom three children: Ross James, died at the age of fifteen months ; Arthur, a student in Liberty High School ; and Mary, also a student in Libei'ty High School.

John B. Woods, president of the Farmers Bank of Smithville, Missouri, and owner and proprietor of "Elnnvood Stock Farm", has been known for many years as one of the prominent breeders of Shorthorn cattle of the countiy. He was born on the farm near where he now resides, November 17, 1855, and is a son of Kemp M. Woods and Sarah J. (Chiles) Hamilton.

Kemp M. Woods was a native of Woodford County, Kentucky, and when a young man came to Missouri and settled in Kearney township, Clay County. He made the tnp from Kentucky to Clay County alone, riding a pony the entire distance. He bought 800 acres of land in Kearney towTiship for which he paid $10 an acre. After remaining here a short time he returned to Kentucky for his mother and sisters. The family lived on the land which he had purchased in Kearney township for about two years. He then traded that place for 320 acres in Platte township, south of Smithville, which is still a part of the Woods homestead. Here he carried on general farming and stock raising and met with marked success. He owned a great deal of land in this part of the counti-y. and at one time had over 3,000 acres in Clay and Platte counties. He was a progressive and public spirited man and did much for the betterment and upbuilding of the community in the early days. He built a school house on his farm, with the object ot furnishing advanced educational advantages to young women. Here music was taught as well as the other arts and sciences. This was before the Civil War. When the Civil War broke out he served as Captain of the Home Guards of Platte township, and was knowii thereafter as Captain Woods, having earned his title by actual service.

Kemp M. Woods was twice married, his first wife l>eing Miss Sarah Skinner, and two children were bom to that union: Phineas, who was killed during the Civil War, while sei-ving in the Confederate Army; Kemp M.. Jr., who is also deceased. After the death of his first wife Kemp M. Woods jiiaiTied Sarah J. (Chiles) Hamilton, a widow, and to this marriage three children were born, as follows: John B., the subject of this sl^etch; Henry A., Platte township; and Cornelius H., de-

John B. Woods attended the district school and later took a course at William Jewell College, at Liberty, Missouri. When he was eighteen years old he began fanning and stock raising for himself on his father's land, and has devoted himself to that line of endeavor all of his hfe.

Mr. Woods has been an extensive breeder of pure bred Shorthorn cattle for twenty years, and the Elmwood herd of Shorthorns was one of the pi'oniinent pure bred herds of Missouri, and Mr. Woods has filled orders for pure bred Shorthorn cattle, from his herd, from nearly all the western states. *'

John B. Woods was married, near Lexin^on, Kentucky, to Miss Lela Wiglesworth, a daughter of William and Fannie (Goodloe) Wiglesworth, both natives of Kentucky. To Mr. and Mrs. Woods have been bom two children, Helen and Mildred.

Mr. Woods is a Knights Templar Mason and a member of the Mystic Shrine. He also holds membership in the Modern Woodman of America and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and Ms. Woods is a member of the Eastern Star. They are lx)th members of the Christian Church, and Mr. Woods is an elder.

Mr. Woods is a progressive and enteiTDrising citizen and always stands ready to co-operate with any movement which has for its object the betterment and upbuilding of his county and state. He is widely known as a good roads booster. He is one of the substantial citizens of Clay County. He was one of the organizers of the Bank of Nashua and is one of its directors.

Mr. Woods was instrumental in getting the rural free delivery started throughout Platte township from Smithville, there being three routes established at that time and another was added later. He established the first country telephone line in Platte township.

The Farmei-.s liank of Smithville, Missouri, was organized with the following officers: John B. Woods, president; Richardson C. Hulse, vice president; P. T. Aker, cashier, and the first board of directors were: John Brooks, Richard Hulse, Kemp M. Woods and Martin Aker. The present officers are: John B. Woods, president; Henry A. Woods, vice president; 0. J. Boggees, cashier, and 0. A. LowTnan, assistant cashier. Official statement of the financial condition of the Farmers Bank of Smithville. At Smithville, State of Missouri, at the close of business on the 7th day of December, 1920, published in the Democrat-Herald, a newspaper printed and published at Smithville, State of Missouri, on the 17th day of December, 1920.

Lla.Bilities

Daniel Conlev, a well known and successful farmer of Liberty township, Clay Count;, is a native of Tennessee. He was bora in Williamson County, Tennessee, October 29. 1862. and is a son of John A. and Hannorah

^^^^The Conle^ family came from Tennessee to Missouri in 1870, when Daniel Conley of this review was about eight years old. They made he trip by river steamboat from Nashville, Tennessee,, to Kansas City, which required twenty-eight days. The family located in Clay County at Missouri City, where the father worked on the railroad a few years and later engaged in farming in the vicinity of Excelsior Springs Junction. He sold his place and removed to Kansas City, where he died a short time afterwards, in 1892, at the age of seventy-five years. His wife died in 1906 and their remains are buried in Fairview cemetery. They were the parents of the following children: Michael, deceased; Johanna, mamed R. W. Ferrish, of Phoenix, Arizona; John, now deceased; and a daughter who died in infancy, twins; Jerry, deceased; Daniel, the subject of this sketch; and Hannorah, deceased.

Daniel Conley was educated at the Clevenger school house in Fishing River township, and early in life he engaged in farming and stock raising. He bought his present farm in Liberty township in 1908, although he had owned two farms before this. His present place consists of fifty-five acres and is a well improved farm with a good residence and other farm buildings. The residence is at the highest point of the farm and presents a commanding view of the surrounding country. The place is supplied with city water from the main of the Liberty water plant, Mr. Conley having laid 3,000 feet of pipe to connect with this main. He carries on general farming and stock raising and has met with success.

January 27, 1871, Daniel Conley was married to Miss Jeannette E. Boyer, a daughter of Nelson and Mary (Easterly) Boyei'. The mother is now deceased and the father lives in Fishing River township and a sketch of him appears in this volume. To Mr. and Mrs. Conley have been bom the following children: Elizabeth, married Irving Archer, Liberty, Missouri ; John, a fanner of Liberty township, married Edna George ; Florence, married E. J. Murphy, a farmer of Liberty township; and Everett, a farmer of Liberty township, man-ied Evelena Davis. Mr. and Mrs. Conley have ten grandchildren as follows: Galen and Gladys Archer; Ellen Conley; Frances James E. and Conley Murphy; Daniel, John N., and Ralph Franklin Conley.

William J. Stark, now deceased, was an early settler of Clay County and prominently identified with the development of this section during his career. He was a native of Virginia, bom in Fauquier County in 1809. He was reared to manhood in his native state and was thei-e married to Emily Waller, a native of Culpeper County, Virginia.

and brought about twenty ne^-o slaves, and dvu^ing ^he ^Wil War w^^^^^ the slaves were liberated, he owned about forty. One ^^^^^J^^^^^^l Winnie lived to be 103 years old. She died in 1875. Grandma Wmme !ls a great favorite with the Stark children and they were very fond of

""'"when William J. Stark came to Clay County or shortly after reachTng here, he bought the place in Gallatin township where the S ark reacmng ne , ,^^ ^40 acres and is located four.

mTef n S. "f North Kansas City. It is one of the histonc old places "c ay County. The original farm' residence which contained two rooms^ was built by the Mormons, a hundred years ago. ^e ^arm was enteie^ from the government by a Mr. Bancroft, who sold it to Alex. Fudge from whom Mr. Stark bought it. It is an attractive place, the residence bergtirounded by locusts and elm trees which were planted and caied

''' WimamTsiark died in 1882, at the age of seventy-one years. His wifel dTn 1891 at the age of eighty-two years a^ the- maj^^^^^^ u - A ir. +v,o Waller cemetery. Thev were the parents of the following cMdl: Eizl* Eu^se,,, wW sewed in *e Mexican War in Colonel Doniphan's regiment and also served m the Cvl War and Te and Ms wife are now both deceased; Charles Seldon was k.lled m btSedunr Civil War at Lone Jack, Missouri; Cathenne. decea.^. Sotale. married Gray Westhrook, who died *;£ w,r tarn the effect of a wound received at the battle of Corinth. Missis Si 'Jile Ll. in the Confederate anny -d Mrs Jest rook now lives on the Stark home farm; Fannie, resides on ''^=':/'"^ tandy Stark, was killed at Hartsville, Missouri, during the Civil War wWle serving in the Confederate amiy; May F.. deceased; J. T.. deceased r^iu W on he home place; Josephine, resides on the home place; and Wr* married Robert Oriffith, who died January 12. 1914, and she

The Stark family have in their possession many historic heirlooms which give mute testimony to many events associated with the history of the Stark family. A diary which was written by Fountain Waller, a brother-in-law of William J. Stark, contains much interesting data concerning the writer's trip from Fauquier County, Virginia, to Missouri, in 1831. It gives a description of the entire route followed by the writer, and was written as a sort of a guide book for others who were making the same journey, the principal points along the way being described, after the style of a modern automobile tourist's guide. The Stark family also have in their possession a feed trough for horses, which was used on Mr. Stark's trip to Missouri in 1849. Mrs. Westbrook has in her possession a cannon ball which was fired at a building in which her husband was stationed at the battle of Ossawatomie, during the battle with John Brown's men.

The Stark family is one of the prominent pioneer families of Clay County and its members are highly respected and representative of the best citizenship of Clay County.

C. G. Shaw, coal operator, banker, and merchant of Missouri City, is a prominent factor in the commercial and industrial affairs of Clay County. He was bom at Huntsville, Randolph County, Missouri, and is a son of D. A. and Eliza (Frazier) Shaw, pioneer settlers of Randolph County.

C. G. Shaw was reared and educated in Randolph County, and early in life became interested in the operation of coal mines in the vicinity of Huntsville. He operated a mine at Kimberly, between Huntsville and Moberly, in partnership with others, for eight years. In 1903, he became interested in the Missouri City Coal Company, of which he is now secretaiT-treasurer. He is also the senior member of the firm of Shaw and Donovan, leading merchants in Missouri City, and he is president of the Missouri City Bank, at that place.

The Missouri City Coal Company of Missouri City, Missouri, is the only coal mine in Clay County. This company was organized and began business in 1893 with a capital stock of $2000.00 by local men. The capital stock was increased in 1895, to $10,000.00. The following were the officers at the time of the incorporation: Willias M. Simmons, president; Charles W. Norton, secretary; Luther A. Bell, J. M. Grubbs, and Josiah Lingenfelter, directors. There were about twenty stockholders.

In 1900, V/. H. Jones and George C. Gray bought all the stock of the company, and in 1903, C. G. Shaw bought Mr. Jones' stock and since that time has been secretary-treasurer and general manager of the company. For the past seventeen years the Missouri City Coal Copipany has done an extensive business. However, the largest output of the company was in the year of 1909, during which year they mined 50,000 tons of coal, giving employment to about 150 men. Fi-om 1903 to 1911, this company supplied the Wabash railroad with coal here for their trains. In 1911, the chutes, tipple, and machinery were destroyed by fire, but the entire equipment was rebuilt and ready for operations within thirty

This mine is being operated by the latest mmmg machmeiy, known to the mining industry. They operate two electrical mining machines, and more are being installed. It requires four men to operate one of these machines, and each machine, mines about seventy-five tons of coal a day. There are now employed in and about the mine sixty men, and the present wage scale is from $7.50 to $8.00 a day. The shaft, leading to the mine, is 170 feet deep. The coal vein is about twenty inches thick and is of an excellent quality of coal.

Mr. Shaw is also interested in the Jacksonville Coal Company, and for the past three years he has been general manager for that company, which employs 125 men and has a daily output of alx)ut 400 tons of coal.

Philip E. Hamel, Jr., an enterprising and capable farmer and stockman of Fishing River township, is a native son of Clay County. He was born in the township where he now resides September 21, 1883, a son of PhiUp, Sr., and Maggie (Martin) Hamel.

Philip Hamel, Sr., was born in Germany in 1844, and at the age of nine years came to America with his widowed mother who first settled in Cincinnati, Ohio. Shortly afterwards the family came to Clay County, Missouri, settling in Fishing River township, and Philip Hamel, Sr., has since made his home in this township where he has followed fanning and stock raising all his life. He is a veteran of the Civil War, having served in the Union Amy throughout that conflict, and during- the course of his active military career he was wounded three times. His wife was bom in Maryland, a daughter of Henry and Maggie Martin who were early settlers in Kansas City, Missouri.

Eddie and Henry, twins, both deceased; Lizzie, deceased; Emma, married Gus Haney, Turon, Kansas; Philip E., Jr., the subject of this sketch; Anna, deceased; Anna, married Logan Foster, Fishing River township; Fred, who was in the United States Army during the World war; William resides at home with his parents; and one son died in infancy.

Philip E. Hamel, Jr., was reared in Fishing River township and educated in the district school. He has always followed farming, having been familiar with farm life since early boyhood. For the past six years he has operated a farm of 244 acres, the property of T. M. and William Raney of Kansas City, Missouri. This is one of the productive farms of Clay County, being all Missouri River bottom land. Mr. Hamel devotes himself chiefly to raising grain, and during the past season he raised 125 acres of corn, ninety acres of wheat and eighteen acres of alfalfa. His alfalfa averages about five cuttings a season.

September 22, 1919, Philip E. Hamel, Jr., was married to Miss Gertrude Mitchell, who was the only child of J. F. and Mary Mitchell of Kansas City, Missouri.

W. M. Thomas, a well known fanner and stockman of Liberty township, who is now operating the Robert Withers farm, five miles southeast of Liberty, is a native son of Clay County. He was bom in Fishing River township in 1879, a son of George and Barbara (Greenwood) Thomas. The Thomas family came from Kentucky, in which State both parents were bom, and came to Missouri at a very early date, making the trip up the Missouri River by steamboat. George Thomas was a son of Fred Thomas, a Kentuckian, who settled in Platte County, near Barry. George Thomas died in 1908, and his wife departed this life in 1898. Their remains are buried in Nebo Cemetery.

To George and Barbara (Greenwood) Thomas were born the following children : Anna, married Ed. Whitton, and is deceased ; Ed. Thomas, deceased ; John Thomas, resides on the old Thomas homestead ; George, deceased ; Samuel, deceased : W. M., the subject of this sketch ; and Claudie, deceased.

W. M. Thomas was reared in Clay County and educated in the public schools. He has followed farming since early manhood and has always made his home in Clay County.

James Evans was a native of Jackson County, Missouri, and was accidentally killed by a Wabash train. His widow afterwards married A. J. Stevens and now lives seven miles north of Liberty. To Mr. and Mrs. Thomas have been born six children as follows : William, George, Robert, Dora Alice, Roy, and Ralph.

Hugh H. Preston, manager of the Gashland Lumber Company, is one of the enterprising business men of Clay County. He was bom one and one-half miles east of Barry, Missouri, September 19, 1896, and is a son of J. C. and Melvina (Williams) Preston.

J. C. Preston was bom at TwelvemJle, Indiana, May 29, 1854. He died January 27, 1920. He was reared in Indiana and came to Missouri when he was about eighteen years old. He was a druggist and engaged in that line of business in early life. Later he entered the employ of the Sewall Paint and Glass Company as their travelmg representative in southem Missouri and Arkansas and for twenty-seven years, prior to his death, he was in the employ of that company in that capacity. He founded the Gashland Lumber Company in 1910 and his son, Hugh H. Preston, has managed this business since its organization. They carry a complete line of lumber and building material and have one of the well equipped lumber yards of the country.

J. C. Preston was married in 1882 to Miss Melvina Williams, of Gashland, Missouri. She was born and reared in Gallatin township and now resides in Kansas City. To J. C. and Melvina (Williams) Preston were bom two sons: Paul R., of Independence, Missouri, married Miss Ina Newell of Butler, Missouri, succeeded his father as traveling representative for the Sewall Paint and Glass Company, and now holds that position ; and Hugh H., the subject of this sketch.

Hugh H. Preston received his education in the school of Kansas City, Missouri, and attended Spalding's Commercial College. He was with the Arma Lumber Company at Arma. l^^ansas, for three years, and when the Gashland Lumber Company was organized in 1910 he came here as manager of that enterprise and has since sen'ed in that capacity, and has, therefore, had much to do with the progress and development of this successful enterprise.

Thomas, a daughter of J. L. Thomas. Mrs. Preston was bom at Osceola, Missouri, and her mother now resides in Kansas City, Missouri. To Mr. and Mrs. Preston have been bom two children : Vena Charlene and Hugh Herbert, Jr.

Mr. Preston is a member of the Masonic Lodge at Barry, Missouri, and is one of the substantial and enterprising business men of Clay County.

William Isenhour, a successful farmer and stockman of Liberty township, is a native of Clay County. He was lx)m in Fishing River township, October 4, 1876, and is a son of Wilham H. and Lydia (Bunvay) Isenhour, both natives of Indiana.

William H. Isenhour was reared to manhood in his native State and when the Civil War broke out, enlisted in an Indiana regiment and served in the Union Army for three years. After the close of the war he returned to Indiana and 1872 came to Missouri and settled on a fai-m on the Missouri bottoms in Clay County. He followed farming in Clay and Clinton counties for a number of years and now resides at Leavenworth, Kansas. His v.ife died about 1881, and her remains are buried in the Nebo Cemetery. They were the parents of the following children: Frankie, deceased; George, lives in Liberty township; Alice, married Jesse Crawford and is now deceased; and William, the subject of this sketch.

William Isenhour was reared in Clay County and educated in the district schools, attending school in the Sharj^ school district. He began working by the month for farmers in the vicinity of his home when he was still a youth. He worked for Charles Story for four years, for fifteen dollars a month and for a time was employed by George W. Petty. After he had saved a sufficient amount of his earnings, he bought a team and some farming implements and worked rented land for three years. He then bought eighty acres of land, forty acres of which were - river bottom land, which he still owns. About six years later, he bought thirty-six acres more. In March 1918. he bought ninety-two acres, and has recently purchased 120 acres moie. He is now the owner of 328 acres of well improved and productive land. He raises wheat, com, oats and a'falfa and is quite extensively engaged in stock raising. He raises cattle, hogs, and horses.

lilts :r "anl speda, to ..in. Reed's Yellow Dent con, for seed PUnP-es an .s »- ° ' ^ -"t,, seed coi-n growers in th.^^eet.on of the county. He seed com at Excelsior Springs lair at two diBcienl times. He is "re owner of 120 acres which through his management is kept in a high state of cultivation. ^,,

G. W. Long, superintendent of the Frank H. Sweet stock farm of Liberty township, Clay County, is one of the capable and practical farmers and stockmen of this county. He was bom in Caroline County, Virginia, August 22, 1866, and is a son of G. M. and Sarah Long, both now deceased. G. W. Long was reared and educated at Fredericksburg, Virginia. He came to Clay County when a young man and for a number of years was engaged in farming and stock raising in Fishing River township, where he now owns a farm of eighty acres.

Mr. Long was married April 18, 1886, to Miss Sarah Cathei-ine Minter, a daughter of F. M. and Sarah (Bohart) Minter. Mrs. Long was bom in Clay County, August 12, 1869. To Mr. and Mrs. Long have been bom two children: J. R., who is operating his fathei-'s farm in Fishing River township; and Sarah, maiTied J. J. Williams, a farmer in Fishing River township. There are two grandchildren in the Long family: G. W. Long and Beverly Williams.

The Frank Sweet stock farm, of which G. W. Long is superintendent, is one of the important agricultural enterprises of Clay County. This place contains about 300 aci-es and is principally devoted to raisinghorses and mules, and at this writing there are about 300 head of each on the place and from three to four hundred head of cattle on the place. Mules are bought and fed and cared for on this place, when they are shipped to markets in the southern states and as far east as Boston. The farm is practically all under grass. Mr. Long has four assistants on the place to care for the stock. Mr. Sweet bought this place in March, 1920, and prior to that time he o"WTied a stock farm near Belton, Missouri, where Mr. Long was superintendent for six years before taking charge of the Clay County faiTn. He is thoroughly experienced in handling farming and stock raising on a large scale.

Arthur and Lank Carlyle, enterprising young farmers and stockmen who are operating the "Land" fai-m of 200 acres, in Gallatin and Liberty townships, are both natives of Clay County, born in Liberty township. Arthur was bom November 22, 1889, and Lank was born March 18, 1891. They are sons of John and Mattie (James) Carlyle.

John Carlyle was born and reared in Virginia, and when a young came to aay County, Missouri, and was engaged in famnng and sockraTlg here until his death, at the age of fifty-nine years, and h.s er^ains are' buried in Little Shoal Church cemetery Matt.e (James) Carivle was born in Liberty township. Clay County, a daughter of John SmI and now resides with her sons, Arthur and Lank Carlyle^ The oZ chiWren born to John and Mattie (James) Carlyle are: WUham, who is emp oyed by the Bell Telephone Company, of Liberty ; James, hves Tn olhoma; Loretta, married Howard Jahn, Liberty, M.ssoun; and Mabel married Fillmore Kaphart, Liberty, Missouri.

Arthur and Lank Carlyle were educated in the public schools ot LibertrMissouri, and followed woodwork contracting for some time. In i^Olfthey engag d in farming and stock raising and oP^rated the Chand er farm on the Missouri river bottoms for one year, and in March, 1920 hey ook possession of the J. T. Land farm, in Gallatm o-ship -hic^ Insists of 200 acres. They raised -f ^^-^^ ^^^^^^^ «P«.nn and have ninety-five acres under wheat. They laise uuroc 7Zl hogs rr Shorthorn cattle, all of which are eligible tx> registra Sn In addition to their farming and stock raising oP-'at-ns they To buy and sell mules. At this ^vriting they have on hand a herd of about 400 hogs, and 140 on feed for the market. ,,,,,, -.^^

The carlyle family was well represented in the -ks «f ^^^/^^^ States Army in the World War. Lank Carlyle entered the Umted States A^v October 3, 1917. and served until the close of the war with the 35"h Mant;, 'sOth Division. He was mustered out of service and honorably discharged March 23, 1919.

Arthur Carlyle entered the United States Army m J""^- l^^S. and was sent to Camp Funston, Kansas, where he became a mernber of the Sh Headquarters Company and was honorably discharged and mustpvpd out of service in February. 1919.

James Carlyle. another brother, entered the United States Army in May 918. and was sent to Camp Dodge, Iowa, for training and froin there to France with the Supply Department and was with the 88th mvi ion and saw much service on the battle front in France. He was r he battle line four different times and after the armistice was ^gned he was kept in France a few months, when he was returned to the united States and honorably discharged, after having been m the service for eighteen months.

James L. A. Gates, proprietor of "Gates' Oak Ridge Farm," is one of the successful and enterprising farmers and stockmen of Clay County. He was born near Kearney, Missouri, June 12, 1860, and is a son of George W. and Nancy J. (Ferril) Gates.

George W. Gates was born in Missouri, and prior to the Civil War, was engaged in farming near Kearney. When the Civil War broke out he enlisted in the Confederate Army and died at Springfield, Missouri, in 1862, while in the service. Nancy J. Ferril was bom and reared on the old Ferril homestead, near Kearney. After the death of her first husband she was to married to B. W. Reames in 1868. She died in Butler County, Kansas. James L. A. Gates and a sister, George Ann, were the only children bom to his mother's first mamage. George Ann died in infancy. To her marriage with B. W. Reames were bom the following children: Mrs. Gordia Huff, Horton, Kansas; H. F. Reames, St. Joseph, Missouri ; Walter Reames, Kearney, Missouri ; and Mrs. Mary L. Barnes, Springfield, Missouri.

James L. A. Gates was educated in the public schools of Kearney township and in the schools of Cowdey County, Kansas. In 1879, he returned to Clay County and engaged in farming and stock raising. For the past nineteen years he has owned his present fann in Liberty township. He purchased this place from the Captain Grooms estate. This place consists of 250 acres of valuable and improved land. It is a good grain farm and is especially well adapted to stock raising. There is an ample supply of water, good shade and every natural condition, contributing to an ideal stock farm. Mr. Gates raises high grade cattle, sheep and hogs.

James L. A. Gates was married in 1887 to Miss Sallie McMahan who was born in Wise County, Texas, and reared in Clay County, Mis.souri. She is the daughter of John and Frances (Meanes) McMahan, both of whom are now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Gates have been bom the following children: Georgia, married John Best, Liberty, Missouri; Harry D., mairied Beulah Wright and is a farmer and stock raiser near Liberty, Missouri; Mrs. Nannie Black, Liberty, Missouri; Gertrude, married Gal Massey of Liberty and Fi-ank, resides at home with his parents.

Mr. Gates is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Modern W^oodmen of America. He is a Democrat and a member of the Presbyterian church and an elder. He is progressive and enterprising and a substantial citizen.

George W. Reynolds, a well Icnown farmer and stockman, of Liberty tovvTiship, is a native son of Clay County. He was born on the David Creek fann in Liberty township, May 7. 1866, a son of Jonas and Jane (Creek) Reynolds.

Jonas Reynolds was an early settler in Clay County, and owned and operated a farm about six miles north of Liberty. He died at the age of sixtv-five years. Jane (Creek) Reynolds was born in Clay County and was a daughter of Kill Creek who was a very early pioneer of this section. Mrs. Reynolds died in 1869, and is buried by the side of her husband in Providence cemetery. To Jonas and Jane (Creek) Reynolds were born the following children: Emma, married Charles Creek and lives at Oak Creek, Colorado; John E., L. J., and K. A., all farmers and stockmen of Liberty township; and George W., the subject of this

George W. Reynolds was reared in Liberty towTiship and attended school in'the Providence and Bell districts. In early life he spent two years in Colorado and Kansas and then returned to Clay County with has since been his home. He first bought a farm of thirty acres which he later sold and bought 115 acres. He afterwards sold seventy-four acres of that place and bought eighty acres additional. He now owns 128 acres which is one of the well improved and valuable farms of Clay County. In 1918, he built a modem two story residence of nine rooms, and the other buildings about the place are of a high standing. He carries on general farming and stock raising and keeps a good grade of

Mr. Reynolds was manned in 1892, to Miss Martha Warren, a daughter of Thomas and Lucy (Hudelmeyer) Warren. Mrs. Reynolds' parents are both deceased. They were very early settlers in Liberty township, and Mrs. Reynolds was born in this township. To Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds have been bom the following children: Wallace A., died at the age of one year; Ruth, married D. V. Britten; Grace M., mairied Kirk Burke; Blanch M., married James D. White, and Clara, Lucy. Frank N., and George W., residing at home with their parents. The follovving are the grandchildren of the Reynolds family: Evelyn Jean. Georgeann, and Fay Ruth Britton, Lucile, John Reynolds, Wallace Wilson Burke, and Martha Reed White.

promoter of his district. He made the first I'oad drag and operated it on the Range Line road. This pioneer road drag was made of two slabs, one of walnut and the other of white oak, and Mr. Reynolds had this crude device in operation in his district over twenty years ago. He is progressive, public spirited, and a Clay County citizen of real worth.

James T. Martin, a well known citizen of Liberty township, is a native of Clay County and a descendant of pioneer parents, who settled in this county at an early day. James T. Martin was born about a mile and onehalf south of Linden, December 7, 1848, and is a son of Thomas and Jane (Sutton) Martin, the former a native of Jessamine County, Kentucky, j and the latter of Woodford County, Kentucky.

Thomas Martin came to Clay County, from Kentucky, in 1844, and bought 100 acres of land for which he paid ten dollars an acre; later he bought 240 acres for which he paid thirty-three dollars and one-third an acre. The old homestead is now owned by his daughter, Emma Barnes, and she is now living there. The first place which he bought here was covered with a heavy growth of blackben-y brush and pawpaws. He cleared the land, made improvements and spent the remainder of his life here, and he and his wife are buried in Barry cemetery. Thomas Martin was one of the adventurers who made the hazardous trin to California during the gold excitement in 1849. He remained there about a year, engaged in gold mining and succeeded in finding some gold, but not in paying quantities.

James T. Martin was reared to manhood on the home farm in Clay County and received his education in the Davis district school. In early life he went to Texas and after spending about three years in Texas and the Choctaw Nation, which was then Indian Territory, he returned to Clay County and engaged in farming and stock I'aising in the vicinity of Linden. He owned a farm in Gallatin township, and also one in Platte township which he later sold. In February, 1911, he moved to his present place, one mile south of Liberty, where he owns seventeen acres of valuable land which is worth at least $800.00 per acre. He has a comforts able home here and is engaged in raising small fruit.

Mr. Mai'tin was married in 1878 to Miss Lizzie Crouse, a daughter cf C. M. and Nancy (Dickey) Crouse, of Harlem, Missouri. C. M. Crouse was a native of Germany, bom March 23, 1838, and came to Missouri wlien a young man. He was justice of the peace and notary public for many years. He died in 1912. His wife was born in Bates County. Mis- Turf February 6, 1842, and died in 1915. Mrs. Martm was born m Son Count^, Missouri, in 1861, and was reared and edueated^n tha county and came to Clay County with her parents m 1876 To Mr and Mrs. Martin was born one son, Thomas, who was killed by bghtnmg Maj 1, 1895, at the age of thirteen years. , , n^ r.M,.fv

James T Martin is well known and highly respected m Clay Countj where he and Mrs. Martin have many friends and acquaintances. They are worthy representatives of the best pioneer element of this county. -

Henry A Woods, a successful farmer and stockman and large land owner of Platte township, is a native of Clay County and a member of one of the prominent pioneer families of this county. He was born in Platte toJUshrJuly 1. 1858, a son of Capt. Kemp M. and Sarah Jane (Hamilton)

^°' Capt. Kemp M. Woods was a prominent pioneer settler of Clay County. He was born in Woodford County, Kentucky, in 1815, and came to Clay Cour; with his mother in 1835. They settled in Platte towns ip^ wher they bought 400 acres of land which is now known ^s the John Ecton faS^ They lived on that place for three years when they traded it foi trhome pLe where LiUie M., widow of Kemp M. Woods. Jr., now lives, which at that time contained 1.200 acres.

When the Civil War broke out Kemp M. Woods' sympathy v.as wi h the South. His place was devastated by Federal soldiers and his stock driven away, except two calves which were later broke and sei-ved him an ox team for several years after the war. Mr. Woods was axTested by Federa IsoTdiers and taken to Weston, but was released upon arnving her He then went to Little Rock, Arkansas, and from there returned to h.^ fid hom"e in Kentucky where he organized a ^^^^y^^^^^^ Confederate Army and he was commissioned captain of t^a^ «rg^"^^f f^^^ About the time that his company was ready for service General Lee sur fendered and the war was at an end. In 1866 Captain Woods returned to fZetciay County and again started ^^-in. and stc>ck v.s^^^^^ He was a successful man and spent the vemamder of his life in Platte township where he died in March, 1897.

Capt Kemp M. Woods married Sarah Jane Han.ilton, who was born in Woodford Cunty, Kentucky, in 1822, and came to Missouri with h parlts who settled in Jackson County in 1825. Her maiden name was

Chiles and she was the widow of John Hamilton, by whom she had two children : Annie, who married J. W. Woods, and is deceased, and one child died in infancy. Capt. Kemp M. Woods was first manied to Miss Sarah Skinner, who died in 1847. To that union were born three children: Phineas, deceased; Kemp M., Jr., died in 1.912; and Mary, died in infancy. To Capt. Kemp M. and Sarah Jane (Hamilton) Woods were bom the following children : One died in infancy ; John B., who lives in Clay County, ^nd a sketch of whom appears in this volume; Henry A., the subject of this sketch ; and Cornelius H., who died in 1900.

Henry A. Woods was reared on the home farm in Platte township and educated in the district school and William Jewell College, at Liberty, Missouri. He assisted his father on the home place until he was twentyfour years old, when he married, and at that time his father gave him 240 acres of land. Here he engaged in his independent career as a farmer and stoclonan. He met with success and bought more land from time to time until he became the owner of 800 acres. He made numerous and substantial improvements, including a good modem residence which he built in 1890 and two large bams. He has been engaged in general farming and stock raising and has also been one of the leading breeders of Shorthorn cattle in Clay County for the past thirty years. He also has been an extensive mule raiser and has raised more mules than any otner man in Platte township, and he has also raised a great many horses. He has given two of his sons 200 acres of huid each foi' a .start and they are progressive young men and are maldng good.

Mr. Woods is not only a success in the industry of famimg and stock raising but has been an active factor in other fields of local entei-prise. He has been identified with the Farmers Bank of Smithville for a number of years and is a member of the board of directors of that institution. He was one of the organizers of the Bank of Nashua, Missouri, and has been a director of that bank since its organization, about fifteen years ago.

On June 1, 1884, Mr. Woods was mari-ied to Miss Annie Aker, of Smithville, Missouri. She is a daughter of Martin and Ann Aker, both natives of Kentucky and now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Woods have been bom five children, as follows : Lee A., born July 24, 1885, lives in Clay County ; John D., l)orn April 10, 1889, lives on the home place; Calvin C, bom April 17, 1893, and died March 20, 1902; Ralph H., born February 19. 1899, and died March 3, 1893 ; and Fred, bora December 26, 1900, lives at home with his parents.

Mr Woods has been a life long Democrat and has always taken an active interest in political matters, although he has never aspired to hold office He has always taken a deep interest in the progress and welfare of the public schools, and for the past thirty-five years he has sei-yed as president of the local school board. He is a member of the Masonic Lodge, Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Modem Woodmen of America. Mrs Woods is a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and the Christian Church. Mr. Woods is a substantial citizen and one of the dependable men of Clay County.

WiUiam Hey, owner of "White Oak Grove Farm," near Gashland, Clay County, is a progressive and enterprising fanner, who by industry and constant application, has won for himself a place among the leading citizens of Clay County. He was bom in Gallatin tovv^iship. about one and one-fourth miles north of North Kansas City, March 16. 1862, and is a son of Christian and Mary (Chandler) Hey.

Christian Hey was a native of Germany and when eighteen years of age came to America, and settled in New York City where he worked for a time. He then came to Jackson County, Missouri, where he worked in a blacksmith shop with a brother, Fred Hey. About 1858, he came to Clay County, Missouri, where he was married and spent the remainder of his life here. He died in 1886, at the age of forty-nine years. Mary (Chandler) Hey was married in 1904, to Henry Jennings and they reside on the old home place in Gallatin township. She was bom in Gallatin township, on the Chandler place, about one mile east of her present home. Her father, William Chandler, was among the very earhest pioneer settlers of Gallatin township. He died here and his remains are buried on the old Chandler home farm. ^ -

To Christian and Mary (Chandler) Hey were born the followmg children- Rosa, married William Chandler, and now lives in Oregon; William, the subject of this sketch; F. B., Drexel, Missouri; James F died on the home place at the age of forty-seven years; Susie Ehzabeth man-ied Fred Hanson, and is now deceased: and Anna B. married Walter Suggett, of North Kansas City, Missouri.

William Hey was reared in Gallatin to^^^lship and educated in the Glenwood school. He was reared on a farm and in early life engaged m farming and stock raising, for himself. He bought his present farm in 1894 from Thomas Broadhurst. The place at that time was practically unimproved and much of it was covered with the thick growth of brush. Mr. Hey began clearing away the place and making improvements, and for the first three years he was unmarried and lived alone on the place. He has improved his place, erected good buildings, and today has one of the productive and well kept farms of Clay County. The place has an ample supply of water, furnished by numerous springs and Shoal Creek courses its way across the southwest corner of the place. There are twenty acres of bottom land and the balance is upland, and all is rich, productive soil. Mr. Hey has given special attention to breeding highgrade cattle, mules, horses, and hogs. He has some of the finest stock in the country, including three valuable registered jacks, and a number of jennets and pure bred Percheron horses. He has about one hundred and twenty-five Big Type Poland China hogs, thirty head of Shorthorn cattle, and one hundred Shropshire sheep. He is one of the progressive stockmen and breeders of Clay County, and perhaps and has done as much as any other may, to raise the general standard of livestock in this county. He has kept registered stock for the past fourteen years.

Mr. Hey was married January 15, 1896, to Miss Eliza Johnson, of Gallatin township. She is a daughter of William Nelson and Nancy Jane (Thomas) Johnson. Her mother is now deceased and her father lives near Barry, Missouri.

Mr. and Mrs. Hey have a good comfortable home and a fine farm which they have accumulated through their own eflforts. They are industrious and enterprising, and rank among the leading citizens of Clay County.

George S. Ritchey, cashier of the First National Bank of Liberty, is one of the widely known bankers of western Missouri, and has been connected with the First National Baiik for thirty-three years, and twentyfive years of that time he has been cashier. Mr. Ritchey is a native of Clay County, bom at Liberty, June 9, 1862. He is a son of Dr. Stephen and Nannie (Stone) Ritchey.

Dr. Stephen Ritchey was a pioneer physician of Clay County. He was born in Woodford County, Kentucky, in 1824, and came to Clay County from his-native state about 1849, and was engaged in the practice of medicine at Liberty and vicinity until the time of his death, March 6, 1888. Nannie (Stone) Ritchey was also a native of Kentucky. She sunived her husband a number of years, and died June 1, 1917.

Dr. Stephen and Nannie (Stone) Ritchey were the parents of the following children: Irwin, a traveling salesman, Kansas City, Missouri; Cora, maiTied J. E. Bradley, Long Beach, California; Martha, married D. T. Haines, Muncie, Indiana; and George S., the subject of this sketch.

George S. Ritchie was educated in the Liberty High School, and William Jewell College. He was then employed by the William Blumes Dr>' Goods Company, of Kansas City, for six years. In 1888, he returned to Libei-ty and entered the employ of the Kemp M. Woods and Company Bank, and remained with that institution until April 1, 1889. He then entered the employ of the First National Bank, and for the past twentyfive years has been cashier of that institution. The First National Bank has had a marvelous gro^^'th and development during the quarter of a century that Mr. Ritchey has been cashier. A history of the bank appears elsewhere in this volume.

Dr. Hiram McElroy Dagg, a prominent physician of North Kansas City, is a native of Pennsylvania. He was born at Washington, that State, July 26, 1850, a son of James T. and Anna (Means) Dagg, both natives of Washington County, Pennsylvania, who spent their lives there. Dr. Dagg has one sister living, Mrs. Jennie Elliott, of Revenna, Ohio.

Dr. Hiram M. Dagg was educated in the public schools of West Virginia and read medicine in early manhood, and began the practice of his pi-ofession in West Virginia, in 1875. Later he attended Medical College at Cleveland, Ohio, where he was graduated, in 1880. He continued the practice in West Virginia until 1887, when he came to Missouri, locating at Harlem City, Clay County. He was the first physician to locate at North Kansas City and has practiced here with uniform success for thirty-three years.

Dr. Dagg was married, October 22, 1873, to Miss Josephine Kimmms, of Dallas, West Virginia, a daughter of Abner and Elizabeth (McDonald) Kimmins! Mrs. Dagg died November 7, 1900. To Dr. and Mrs. Dagg have been bom six children, three of whom are deceased. Those living are Mrs. W. E. Macken, a sketch of whom appears in this volume: Dr. G. R. Dagg, a physician and surgeon of North Kansas City ; and Burdella, married R. H. Wade, a prominent attorney, of Yonkers. New York.

Dr G R. Dagg received his preliminarj^ education in the public schoolsand the Kansas City High School. He then entered the University of Oklahoma and after a course there entered the Kansas City Medical

College, where he was graduated with the degree of Doctor of Medicine, in 1907. He was engaged in the practice of his profession until the United States entered the World War. In the spring of 1917, he volunteered for service in the Medical Department of the United States Army and in July,

1917, he was ordered to Allentown, Pennsylvania, and during that month he was sent to Fi-ance. At first he was assigned to the British Ai-my, serving with the 15th Division, Scottish Black Watch, from August until November, 1917. He was then transferred to the French Army, serving with the Third Chaussuers from November 17, 1917, until January 12,

Dr. Dagg entered the service with the rank of first lieutenant and while in France was promoted to captain and at the close of his sei-vice ranked as major. He was cited for distinguished conduct in action while with the First Division, south of Soissons, July 18-22, 1918, for displaying exceptional courage and efficiency in the personal supervision of the exacuation of the wounded, and for frequently subjecting himself to great danger in directing the removal of damaged ambulances from areas which were under heavy fire of the enemy.

Robert L. Harbaugh, a well known farmer and stockman of Liberty township, is a native son of Clay County and was bom on the place where he now resides, five miles north of Liberty, November 14, 1870. He is a son of Washington E. and Frances (Wolfenberger) Harbaugh.

Washington Harbaugh was married in Pennsylvania and removed from that state to Ohio, and in 1866 came to Missouri and settled in Clay County on the place where Robert L. Harbaugh now resides. He was a successful fanner and a prominent member of the Grange, back in the nineties. He was one of the charter members of Clay Grange No. 196, of Liberty township. He served as master of the State Grange and also held the office of gate keeper of the National Grange. He attended a meeting of the National Grange at Syracuse, New York, and one held in Califoniia in 1889. He died in Clay County in 1904, at the age of seventythree years. His first wife, the mother of Robert L. Harbaugh, died in

To Washington and Frances (Wolfenberger) Harbaugh were bom four children: Charies Edward, deceased; Y. E.; Clava, married Daniel Crockett; and Robert L., the subject of this sketch.