Clay County, Missouri - Biographical sketches, 1920 (part 5 of 10)

Robert L. Harbaugh was reared on the home farm, where he now resides and attended the Walnut Grove district school. At that time Mrs. Caldwell who now resides at Excelsior Springs was principal. Mr. Harbaugh has always followed farming and stock raising and has met with success His place is well improved and he has recently built a modern bungalow which adds greatly to the appearance of the place as well as to the general comfort of the owners.

September 10, 1896, Robert L. Harbaugh was married to Miss Fannie DeGolia She is a daughter of Joseph and Sarah (Haines) DeGolia. Joseph DeGolia was born in Steuben County, New York. He went to Califomia during the gold excitement of 1849 and was in that state twelve years later, when the Civil War broke out. He enlisted in the Union army and served until the close of the war. He died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Harbaugh, in 1918, at the advanced age of mnety years His wife was born in Indiana and died near Gilman City, Missouri in 1912, at the age of seventy years. They were the parents of the following children: Judson, died at Altamont, Missouri; Dora, died m infancy; Georgiann, married Stephen Forson, Humphreys. Missouri; and Mrs Fannie Harbaugh, of this sketch.

To Mr and Mrs. Harbaugh have been born three children: Juanita, married Cart E. Munkers, Liberty, Missouri; D. N. and Eari, both residing at home. ,

Mr Harbaugh was for many years a prominent member ot tne Grange and served as secretary of the State Grange from 1898 to 1900. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and a substantial citizen.

Alan F. Wherritt, a capable young attorney of Liberty, Missouri, is a native of this State and a descendant of a family of very early pioneers here He was bom at Pleasant Hill, Missouri, June 15, 1895, a son of Alonzo C. and Cora I. (Francisco) Wherritt and was the only child born to them.

Alonzo C. Whemtt was also born at Pleasant Hill, a son of Peter and Mary (Peacock) Wherritt, natives of Virginia, who settled in Cass County, Missouri, prior to the Civil War. Peter Wherritt was an extensive land owner and owned the land in Jackson County where Fairmount Park is now located. He traded this land for land in Cass County and was engaged in farming there until his death, in 1876, at the age of sixty years. He reared a family of fourteen children, of whom Alonzo was the youngest.

Alonzo C. Wherritt was reared at Pleasant Hill, Missouri, and when a young man engaged in the drug business thei'e. Later he became a traveling salesman for the Burrough Manufacturing Company, a wholesale drug house of Baltimore, Maryland, and at the present time he is traveling representative for the Norwich Pharmaceutical Company, of Norwich, New York, and resides at Liberty, Missouri. Cora L (Francisco) Wherritt was bom at Warren, Illinois, and died in 1915.

Alan F. Wherritt was educated in the public schools and graduated from the Independence High School, at Independence. Missouri, in 1912. He then entered William Jewell College where he took a three years course. In June, 1916, he entered the University of Chicago where he was graduated in 1917, with the degree of Ph.B. Shortly aftei-wards he enlisted in the Medical Corps of the regular army and was later assigned to the United States Ambulance Service. He first ranked as sergeant and later, first lieutenant, and was commissioned captain May 1, 1918. In June, 1918, he sailed for overseas, and after eleven months' ser\ace in Italy and Austria he was returned to the United States and discharged at Camp Dix, New Jersey, May 9, 1919. He then returned to Liberty, Missouri, and shortly afterwards returned to the University of Chicago where he was graduated in June, 1920, with the degree of Doctor of Jurisprudence. He then engaged in the practice of his profession at Liberty.

Mr. Wherritt was married June 9, 1919, to Miss Alberta L. Oldham, of Independence, Missouri. She is a daughter of Joseph E. and Cora (Newby) Oldham, both natives of Independence. The father is now deceased and the mother resides in Independence.

As a mark of distinction while in the service, during the World War, he was decorated, receiving the Italian War Cross for meritorious service..

Judge J. W. Scott, a Civil War veteran who for many years was engaged in fanning and stock raising, is now living retired at Smithville, Missouri. He was born in Bourbon County, Kentucky, July 26, 1838, a son of Washington and Ruth Ann (Duncan) Scott.

Washington Scott was born in Bourbon County, Kentucky, December 18, 1812, a son of William and Elizabeth (Smith) Scott, natives of Bourbon County, Kentucky, also. Washington Scott came to Missouri and settled in Platte township, Clay County, in the fall of 1839, and here he bought 400 acres of land which he later lost on account of defective title. He , then bought 200 acres where he engaged in farming and spent the remainder of his life. This land is still owned by members of the Scott family. When he came here from Kentucky he drove through with a four-horse team and brought his wife, two children, one of whom is the subject of this sketch. He also brought a negro slave. William Scott built a log cabin on his claim, which was completed March 1, 1843. He followed fanning and stock raising all his life, and died February 28, 1857. His wife was also a native of Bourbon County, Kentucky, and they were married April 23, 1835. She died in this county September 20, 1864, and her remains are buried in Second Creek cemetery, in Platte County. They were the parents of the following children: May E., deceased; John W., the subject of this sketch; Jeremiah, died in infancy; Israel L, deceased; Washington W., deceased; Ruth Ann, deceased; James R., lives on the old Scott homestead, in Clay County; Sarah J., deceased; Nancy F., deceased; and Ida J., deceased.

J. W. Scott was reared on a farm and educated in the district schools. He remained at home with his parents until after the Civil War broke out. In 1862 he enlisted in the Confederate Army under General Price. He took part in a number of skirmishes and engagements and was taken prisoner by the Federals at Jefferson City, Missouri. From there he was sent to Gratiot Street prison at St. Louis, Missouri, and later transferred to the Federal military prison at Alton. Illinois. He was taken sick there and sent to a hospital. After he recovered he went to work on a fann in Illinois and later taught school there, and remained in that state two years. After returning to Missouri he was engaged in freighting, with ox teams, from Fort Leavenworth to Denver. Shortly after that he engaged m farming and stock raising in Clay County, where he prospered and became the o^vner of 400 acres of land. He was engaged in fanning until 1904 when he sold his place and removed to Smithville, where he has smce lived retired.

J. VV. Scott was married. March 10, 1868, near Platte City, Missouri, to Miss Mary Elizabeth Cain, daughter of John B. and Martha Jane (Bavins) Cain. John B. Cain was born in Shelby County, Kentucky, and came to Missouri with his parents and settled in Platte County at an early day. Here he grew to manhood and was engaged in farming until 1870 when he went to California and died there. His wife was a native of Clay County and died at Pine City, Washington. Mrs. Scott v/as one of fourteen children bom to her parents, three of whom are now living, the other two being Margaret, who married N. Price, and they live in Platte County, and William, of Woodland, California. To Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Scott have been bom the following children: John P.., Lathrop, Missouri ; Doctor Alexander B., Topeka, Kansas ; Wade W., Clinton County, Missouri; Arthur, Kansas City, Missouri; Geneva, married Richard Bruce; Arthur and Ada, twins, the latter being deceased, and Arthur lives in Kansas City, Missouri.

Mr. Scott is a member of the Christian Church, as is also his wife. He has taught Sunday School for over fifty years. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and has been chaplain of the local lodge for the past fifteen years. He is a Democrat and has been justice of the peace for a number of years. He is one of the highly respected and substantial citizens of Smithville and Clay County. He was president of the Mutual Insurance Company of Liberty, Missouri, for a number of years.

Earl Denny, county engineer of Clay County, is widely and favorablj^ known in this County as a conscientious and capable public official. He is a descendant of one of the representative pioneer famihes of Clay County. He was bom in Washington township, November 11, 1881, a son of George R. and Nancy E. (Wharton) Denny.

George R. Denny was also born in Washington township, this county. December 1, 1852, a son of Levi and Hamiah (Clark) Denny, natives of North Carolina, who were man-ied in that stale arid came to Missouri in the early forties, settling in Washington township, Clay County. They were the parents of one other child besides George R., Maggie, who married William Lynn, and they reside at Excelsior Springs, Missouri.

George R. Denny followed farming and stock raising during his active career and is now living retired at Kearney, Missouri. He is the owner of 510 acres of valuable land. He was married in 1879 to Miss Nancy E. Wharton, who was bom in Washington towmship, about 1860.

She was a daughter of Porter and Nancy Ella (Patterson) Sartor natives of North Carolina. They came to Clay County at an early day afd entered Government land here. The Whartons were good ci izen. a^ld rTlSous people. They were members of the Presbytnan church and

-^^ToXTZT^^n.y E. (Wha.^n) Denny were four children: Earl, the subject of this sketch; Omer, lives - ^an Franas o C^ iforaia- J P Washington township; and L. P., San Francisco. California. Srm;thef"of these toys died in 1898, and the father was aftei-.-ards married to Mattie Taylor, a native of Clay County. j

Earl Denny was reared on the home farm in Washmgton townsh P and attended the public schools. He then took a course m the U-er^^ of Missouri, where he was gi-aduated in the class of 1905. He then took charieof h s father's farm in Washington township, where he earned on general facing and stock raising until he assumed the office of county eng ; r having been elected in the fall of 1916 and has since that time discharged the duties of that office in a very acceptabk manner.

Mi Denny was married November 25, 1905, to Miss Ruby Rust, a native of Washington township, Clay County.' She is a davigMer of Charles G and Hamet A. (Green) Rust. Tl.e mother died m 1911, and ?he father now lives on his fai-m in Washington to.-nship. Mi-s. Denn> L one of six children boi. to her parents. To Mr. and Mr. Denny have been bom two children: George Estill, and James Gilbert.

Elisha E. Bell, a prominent farmer and breeder of Liberty to.^sliip, is a native of Clay County. He was bom in Fishing River township September 3, 1886, and is a son of David E. and AUce R. (Cravens) Bell.

Davm E. Bell was bom on the old Bell homestead in ^^^^ ship, and was a son of pioneer parents, who were very early settlers in Cllv County David E. Bell was an early merchant at Liberty and foi ^^.tv vears conducted a hardware store there. During the last fifteen TeTsof his life, he was engaged in farming in Liberty he Led a farm of 250 acres which is still o.-ned by the family. He di d at the age of sixty-five years and his widow who is also a native of Clay County and the descendant of one of the early pioneer families, resides at Liberty.

To David E. and Alice R. (Cravens) Bell, were bom the followingchildren: Nancy, married James A. DeArmond, who is the present mayor of Butler, Missouri, and a son of former Congressman David A. DeArmond, deceased; Anna L., Liberty, Missouri; Elisha E., the subject of this sketch ; Ruby, married James S. Simrall, of Liberty, Missouri ; and E. K., proprietor of a garage at Liberty, Missouri.

Elisha E. Bell was educated in the Liberty High School and William Jewell College, graduating from the latter institution in the class of 1908. He then engaged in farming and stock raising and for the past three years he has been breeding pure bred Big Type Poland China hogs and is one of the successful breeders of Clay County. He has one of the valuable pure bred male hogs at the head of his herd in Clay County and at this writing has about thirty pure bred registered sows. He raises and feeds cattle and hogs for the market on an extensive scale. He owns a valuable farm of 135 acres, and, in addition to that, he operates the home place of 210 acres, and also 140 acres of Missouri River bottom land. He operates, in all, 487 acres.

November 1, 1920, Mr. Bell bought, in partnership, with his brother, E. K. Bell, the Liberty garage which they conduct on East Kansas street. Liberty, Missouri.

Elisha E. Bell was married February 7, 1911, to Miss Lavenia Hunt, a daughter of Ed S. Plunt, of Liberty, Missouri. Mrs. Bell was born at Hardin, Missouri, and educated at the Liberty Ladies College and Lexington College. To Mr. and Mrs. Bell have been bom three children: Edward H., David E. and Morris M.

Mr. Bell is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows at Liberty, Missouri, and is one of Clay County's most progressive and enterprising citizens.

Hubert Earl King, of Birmingham, Missouri, is a native son of Clay County and belongs to a pioneer family of this section. He was bom on a farm in Gallatin township. June 9, 1871, and is a son of Martin A. and Margaret (Sutton) King.

Martin A. King was born in Ohio and his wife was a native of Clay County and they were man-ied in Clay County. They settled on the farm which is now owned by Mrs. Alice Hughes. During the Civil War, Martin A. King served in the Confederate army under Gen. Sterling Price. He was at the battles of Westport, Springfield and a number of other engagements in which General Price's command was engaged. He was killed by lightning August 5, 1885, at the age of forty-two years and his wife died April 4, 1911.

Martin A. and Margaret (Sutton) King were the parents of the following children : Anna Belle married Samuel Root and now lives in Cass County, Missouri; Maiy, mairied Robert Lee Minter; Joannah May, married S. P. Minter, Kansas City, Missouri; Hubert Earl, the subject of this sketch; Maggie, married W. W. Cosby and died August 21, 1900; and Ardena Brown, married J. J. Eichinger, of Randolph, Missouri.

Hubert Earl King was educated in the public schools of Minnaville, Missouri, and at Liberty, Missouri. He engaged in farming in early life and has since successfully devoted himself to farming and stock raising.

Mr. King was married November 10, 1895, to Miss Lela Cutler, a daughter of B. B. and Dicie (Devers) Cutler. B. B. Cutler was born at Orland, Indiana, and was married to Dicie Devers, November 30, 1874, at Holt, Missouri. Her parents were George and Lutetia (Ross) Devers, natives of Kentucky; they died in Indiana. Dicie Devers was born in Gallatin County, Kentucky. B. B. Cutler died May 11, 1916, at the age of sixty-three years and his widow now makes her home with her daughter, Mrs. King.

To Mr. and Mrs. King have been bom four children: Cecil, was manned to L. A. Blankenship. December 23, 1916, and they have one daughter, Inez Louise; Bemham Martin. Forest Leo, and Hubert Lowe, residing at home with their parents.

John Williams, president of the Bank of Smithville. Smithvilie, Missouri, is a native of Clay County and has been prominently identi|ied with this section of the state throughout his career. He was born near Smithville, August 23, 1865, a son of John and Julia (Brooks) Williams.

John Williams, the father, was born in Bourbon County, Kentucky, October 21, 1821. He came to Clay County, Missouri, and settled on government land which he entered in Platte township in 1844. He was successfully engaged in farming and stock raising here during the remainder of his career and became well-to-do, being the owner of 450 acres of valuable land. He died January 6, 1844, and his remains are buried in the Odd Fellows cemetery at Smithville, Missouri. His wife was born in Smithville, Clay County, October 3, 1831, and they were mairied in Platte townsliip in 1856. She died March 15, 1915, and is also buried in the Odd Fellows cemetery at Smithville. They were the parents of two children: John, the subject of this sketch and Sidney J., cashier of the Bank of Smithville, of whom a sketch appears in this volume.

John Williams was educated in the district school of the neighborhood, where he was born and later attended the State Normal School at Kirksville, Missouri. He remained on the home place and assisted his father until the death of the latter which occurred in 1884. He was then married and continued to operate the home place until 1900. He then came to Smithville and engaged in the hardware and implement business which he successfully carried on until 1918, when he was succeeded by his son, J. C. Williams, who is now conducting the business. Mr. Williams has had a successful business career and is one of the well-to-do men of Clay County. In addition to his banking, mercantile and other interests, he is the owner of a valuable and well improved farm of 500 acres.

December 16, 1886, John Williams was man-ied to Miss Nannie C. Moore and to this union three children have been born, as follows : John C, Smithville, Missouri; Arthur L., deceased; and Sidney S., who is engaged in the hardware and implement business at Smithville, Missouri.

Mr. Williams has been a member of the Masonic lodge for twenty years and a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows for twentyeight years and he has held membership in the Modern Woodmen of America for fifteen years. He is a Democrat and has always taken an active interest in political affairs. During Governor Dockery's administration, Mr. Williams served as a member of the state legislature from this county. He is a capable business man and one of the most progressive citizens of Clay County.

Bank of Smithville, of Smithville, Missouri, is one of the substantial financial institutions in Clay County and has to its credit thirty-tv/o years of uninterrupted and successful banking. This bank was established in 1888 by H. H. C. Snail, who was its first president, S. C. Duncan, the first cashier, John Williams and A. B. Crawford.

The Bank of Smithville was the first bank to be established in Smithville and is one of the pioneer banks of Clay County. The business of this bank has been on a substantial basis from the start and for years it has been recognized as one of the strong banking institutions of the state. The report of the bank at this writing shows the following figures: Deposits, $450,709.35; surplus and profits, $102,817.00; capital stock, $10,000; loans, $591,837.45; real estate, $4,000.00; furniture and fixtures, $1,500.00; cash due from other banks, $88,556.19.

Sidney J. Williams, cashier of the Bank of Smithville, Missouri, is one of the widely known and successful bankers of Clay County and westem Missouri. For the past twenty-four years he has been connected with this well known banking institution. He was born in Platte township, near Smithville, April 17, 1868, a son of John and Julia (Brooks) Williams, the former a native of Kentucky, and the latter of Clay County, Missouri. A more extensive and detailed history of the Williams family appears in this volume in connection with the biography of John Williams, president of the Bank of Smithville. who is a brother of Sidney J. Williams of this review.

Sidney J. Williams was reared on the home fann in Platte to^vnship and educated' in the district school and the State NoiTnal School at Kirksville, Missouri. He remained at home with his father who was a large land owner and extensive farmer. At the death of his father, he continued to operate a part of the home place which he inherited from his father, the place having been divided between the two brothers who were the only children.

Mr. Williams was engaged in fanning and stock raising until 1896, when he became assistant cashier of the Bank of Smithville. He served in that capacity until 1902, when he became cashier of the bank and has capably held that responsible position to the present time. In addition to his banking interests, Mr. Williams is the owner of 430 acres of land which is one of the valuable farms of Clay County.

On February 17, 1886, Sidney J. Williams was married to Miss Betty L. Morton, a daughter of Dr. C. H. Morton, who was one of the pioneer physicians of Smithville. Mr. and Mrs. Williams have no children.

Mr. Williams is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, having joined that organization twenty years ago. He is a Democrat and he and Mrs. Williams are members of the Christian church and she belongs to the Rebeccas.

Owen J. Boggess, one of the well known and successful bankers of Clay County, who occupies the important position of cashier of the Farmers Bank of Smithville, is a native of this county and is a descendant of early Clay County pioneers. He was bom near Smithville, in Platte township, August 31, 1881, a son of James W. and Elizabeth (Shrite) Boggess.

James W. Boggess was born in Platte township, Clay County, July 3, 1844, on the farm which his father, Dennis H. Boggess, entered from the government. Dennis H. Boggess w'as an early settler in Clay County, coming from Kentucky to this county. James W. Boggess was reared on the old Boggess home place which originally consisted of 240 acres. He was successfully engaged in fanning and stock raising there until 1917, when he sold his faiTn, retired from active business and moved to Nashua, where he ig now living retired.

Elizabeth (Shrite) Boggess was born in Platte County, Missouri, in 1847 and she and James W. Boggess were married in 1869. They are the parents of the following children: John D., deceased; Mary, deceased; one died in infancy; William A., deceased; Carrie, maiTied Dr. W. D. Swinney, Mercedes, Texas ; Emma, married Rev. W. D. Ellington, Guilford, Missouri; Owen J., the subject of this sketch; and Alma, married S. A. Tilman, Nashua, Missouri.

Owen J. Boggess attended the district school and later he was a student in the Smithville High School, where he was graduated. He then took a course in Spaulding's Commercial College at Kansas City, Missouri. When he was twenty-one years old he entered the employ of the Bank of Smithville as assistant cashier, and sensed in that capacity with that institution from 1903 until February 1, 1911. He then went to Mercedes, Texas, where he was in the employ of the Hidalto Bank for two years. In October, 1913, he accepted the position of cashier of the Farmers Bank of Smithville and has since capably filled that position. He has had an extensive experience in the important field of banking and has given the intricate problems of finance and banking much thoughtful consideration and study, which added to his vast experience, well equips him for' the impoii:ant position of trust and responsibility which he holds.

Mr. Boggess was married May 16, 1906, at Smithville, Missouri, to Miss Blanche (Harbaugh), a daughter of Eli A. Harbaugh. To Mrs. and Mr. Boggess have been bom three children as follows: Maurine, born March 18, 1907; Owen, Jr.. bom January 5, 1912; and James W., bofn September 8. 1915, all of whom reside at home with their parents.

Mr. Boggess is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Modern V^'^oodmen of America and Roya! Neighbors. He is a Democrat and he and Mrs. Boggess are members of the Christian church.

Van W. Brooks, who for many years was extensively engaged in farming and stock raising and met with well merited success in his endeavors, is now living retired at Smithville, Missouri. He was born in Platte township, Clay County, September 18, 1854, and is a member of one of the very early pioneer families of Clay County. He is a son of Samuel J. and Lucinda J. (Smith) Brooks.

Samuel J. Brooks was bom in Clai-k County, Kentucky, April 11, 1822, and was brought to Missouri by his parents when he was six years old. He was a son of Abijah and Harriet Brooks, who entered Government land in Platte towTiship when they settled in this county in 1828. Samuel J. Brooks owned a farm which contained 513 acres in Platte township. He was a successful man of affairs and retired from active business in 1886, and at that time divided his land, over 800 acres, among his children. He lived in Smithville until his death, in September, 1901. His remains are buried in the Brooks family cemeterj'. Lucinda J. (Smith) Brooks was born in Clay County, Missouri, March 19, 1832, and was married to Mr. Brooks in this county in 1848. She died in 1878 and is buried in the Brooks family cemeterj'.

Samuel J. and Lucinda J. (Smith) Brooks were the parents of eleven children, as follows : Mary E., died in infancy ; Martha A., deceased ; Van W., the subject of this sketch; Samuel J., Jr., Kearney, Missouri; James A., Smithville, Missouri; Eugene, Smithville, Missouri: George S., died in infancy; Isabelle. married D. VV. Williams; Lydia, mairied George E. Wilson, and is now deceased ; Henry H., Kansas City, Missouri ; and Thomas, Caboll, Texas County, Missouri.

Van W. Brooks was reared in Platte township and educated in the district school. He remained at home until he was twenty-one years old and assisted his father in operating the home place. He then received 100 acres of land from his father and bought 305 acres moi-e, and was the owner of a very valuable farm of 405 acres, which later he sold.

Mr. Bi-ooks was married February 5. 1878. in Platte township, to Miss Suna Mitchell, a drughtcr of Mariam B. and Ann (Knave) Mitchell, both natives of Kentucky, and now deceased. The Mitchell family came to Clay County from Kentucky in 1870. To Mr. and Mrs. Brooks have been born four children: Samuel A., born December 5, 1878, is engaged in farming and stock raising in Platte township; Walter M., bom September 12, 1883, is also a farmer and stock man near Smithville, Missouri ; Eugene O., born June 15, 1890, lives in Smithville, Missouri ; and Willie, born April 29, 1885, married A.rthur R. Yates, of Smithville, Misouri.

Mr. Brooks is a Democrat and a member of the Christian Church. He is a progressive and public spirited citizen and is one of the men who has done his part well, towards the development of Clay County, and making of it one of the great counties of Missouri.

Eugene O. Brooks served in the World War, having enlisted from Kansas City, Missouri, with the Engineer Corps, Company H, 29th Division. He sailed for overseas February 15, 1917, and remained there until July 5, 1918. He was mustered out at Camp Taylor, Kentucky, and returned home to Smithville, where he is now living.

George T. Ecton, who is successfully engaged in the milling and grain business at Smithville, Missouri, and alsa the owner of a valuable farm in Platte township, is a native of Clay County. He was born in Platte township August 17, 1853, a son of Abijah and Letitia (Winn) Ecton.

Abijah Ecton was bom in Bourbon County, Kentucky, in 1824. He came to Missouri with his parents in 1832 and they settled in Platte township. Clay County. Here he was reared to manhood and was engaged in farming and stock raising when the Civil War broke out. He enlisted in the Confederate army and served in Price's division for a while. When peace was declared, he resumed farming and met with a reasonable degree of success and was a successful general farmer and stock raiser and was widely known as a horse breeder. He died June 13, 1868. His wife was a native of Missouri and they were married in Clinton County. She died on the Ecton home place in 1857. They were the parents of three children : James, died in infancy ; John, died in 1872 ; and George T., the subject of this sketch.

George T. Ecton was reared in Platte township and in early life attended the district school and later took a course in the University of Missouri at Columbia. He remained on the home farm until his father died. He then worked out by the month for two years and later farmed rented land for two years. Having saved his money, he then attended the University of Missouri. Afterwards he returned to Platte township and bought a farm of eighty acres. He added to his original purchase from time to time, until he acquired 270 acres of land which he still owns. He made substantial improvements and carried on general farming and stock raising and feeds a great many cattle for the market. In 1910, he bought an elevator at Smithville and engaged in buying and shipping grain and also handling coal and feed. In 1917, he installed a flour mill and in 1918 a corn mill, both of which he has had in active operation since. He also carries on an extensive grain, flour, feed and coal business.

Mr. Ecton was married in Clinton County to Miss Mollie Dorehty, a daughter of William and Martha Ann (McCorkel) Dorehty, both natives of Missouri and now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Ecton have been bom ten children : Lettie, married Harry Pence, who is now deceased, and she resides at home with her parents; Lena, married L. D. Pence, Liberty, Missouri; Bud, who is engaged in business with his father at Smithville; Mollie, married John D. Wilkerson, who is engaged in mill business ; George, Albuquerque, New Mexico ; Lutie, a trained nurse, in Kansas City, Missouri; Dillie, who is operating one of his father's farms in Platte township; Wiley, who is now a student in Kansas City, but makes her home with her parents; Ruth, a student in vocal music in New York City, where she has been for the past three years; and Willie, deceased.

Mr. Ecton is a Democrat and has taken an active part in lociU political affairs, having served as mayor of Smithville from 1914 to 1916. He has been a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows for fortysix years. He is a member of the Masonic Lodge and his sons are all members of the Masonic and the Odd Fellows lodges. The j^oungest son, Dillie, is master of the Smithville Lodge. Mrs. Ecton and the daughters are all members of the Order of the Eastern Star and the Rebeccas. The Ecton family are all members of the Christian church. Mr. Ecton is one of the successful business men of Smithville, and the Ecton family stands high in the community.

Charles W. Kindred, a progressive merchant of Smithville, who conducts a grocerj' store and meat market, was born in Platte County, November 14, 1876. He is a son of Joshua and Eliza (Trout) Kindred.

Joshua Kindred was bom in Madison County, Kentucky, in 1840, and when a young man, nineteen yeai's old, he came to Missouri in 1859, and settled in Clinton County. He was engaged in farming there and owned forty acres of land. In 1872, he removed to Platte County where he bought 160 acres of land and he spent the remainder of his life there engaged in farming and stock raising. He died on his home place in 1915 -' and is buried in the Odd Fellows cemetery at Smithville. He sei-\'ed in the Union army during the Civil War. His wife was a native of Virginia, bom in January, 1845, and now resides on the old home place in Platte County. They were the parents of six children as follows: Bell, deceased; Jennie, married Elijah Silvey and they live in Platte County;; Charles W., the subject of this sketch; Julia, married Will Thatcher, Smithville, Missouri; Mary, married R. B. Fox and they Hve in Platte, County; and Lillie, who resides at home with her mother.

Charles W. Kindred was reared on a farm and received his education in the district school. After he was twenty-one years old he remained at home and operated his father's farm for eight years. He then bought eighty acres of land in Platte County. Nine years later he sold that and bought a fifty-five acre farm in Clay County and now owns forty and three-fourths acres where he carries on general farming in addition to conducting the grocery and meat business. In 1907, Mr. Kindred engaged in the produce business at Smithville and in 1912 he extended his business to include groceries and meat and since that time he has been successfully engaged in that business and has built up a large trade.

Charles Hornecker was born in Freiburg, Germany, in 1842. He came, to the United States with his parents in 1849 and they settled on a farm in Illinois, near Quincy. Here Charles Homecker grew to manhood and was married to Katherine (Winkle) at Quincy, Illinois. In 1866, he and his wife came to Missouri and first settled in Chariton County. In 1870, they went to Platte County and in 1871 settled on a farm in Clay County, where Charles Hornecker spent the remainder of his life. He was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows for more than twenty-five years, being a charter member of the Smithville Lodge. He was a member of the Lutheran church. He died July 19, 1907, and his remains are buried in the I. 0. 0. F. cemetery at Smithville.

Katherine (Winkle) Homecker was bom of German and Fi'ench parentage in the southern part of France, December 15, 1842. She came to America with her parents and brother in 1849; the voyage across the Atlantic required forty-eight days. After coming to this country, they settled near Quincy, Illinois, and there the brother of Katharine Winkle died at the age of twenty years and later the father returned to Europe, his wife having died when Katharine Winkle was twelve years old. Katherine (Winkle) Hornecker was an exceedingly well educated woman, having had the advantages of a high school and college education. She was a member of the Lutheran church for over fifty years. She died at Smithville, Missouri, in 1903, and her remains are buried in the I. 0. 0. F. cemetery there.

The children born to Charles and Katherine (Winkle) Hornecker are as follows: Mrs. Hugh Swainey, of Smithville, Missouri; Mis. Charles W. Kindred, of this review, born in Adams County, Illinois, August 29, 1869; Charles Hornecker, Frederick, Oklahoma; Henry Hornecker, Tulsa, Oklahoma; Mrs. Katherine Ligon, Denver, Colorado; and Emma, the youngest of the family, died at the age of two months.

To Mr. and Mrs. Charles W. Kindred have been born three children, as follows: Collins, born in Platte County, October 11, 1891, is postmaster of Smithville; Joshua, born in Platte County, March 20, 1894, is assistant cashier of the Bank of Smithville ; and Forest, bom in Clay County, September 26, 1901, is at home with his parents. There are two grandchildren in the family: Charles Adam Kindred, son of Collins Kindred, and Mar j one, daughter of Joshua ICindred.

Mr. Kindred is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, having been identified with that lodge for eighteen years, and he has been a member of the Modern Woodmen of America for twenty years. His son, Collins, is a member of the Masonic Lodge, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Modern Woodmen of America. Charles W. Kindred and his wife are members of the Christian church and she holds membership in the order of the Eastern Star and the Rebeccas. He is a Democrat and one of the successful men of affairs of Clay County.

Frank P. Rollins, a well known and successful merchant who conducts a delicatessen store at Smithville, Missouri, is a native of Missouri. He was born in Bates County, December 9, 1871, and is a son of Willian^ Penn Rollins, a biographical sketch of whom appears in this volume.

Frank P. Rollins attended the district schools in Clay and Osage counties and also received a high school education. He remained with his father until he was nineteen years old when he engaged in clerking in a store at Smithville. After being employed there for two years he went to Cripple Creek, Colorado, where he was engaged in the mercantile and mining business from 1893 to 1903. He then returned to Clay County and engaged in the delicatessen business at Smithville, to which he has since devoted himself. He has built up a good business and is one of the substantial and enterprising merchants of the town.

Mr. Rollins was married in Pueblo, Colorado, in 1896, to Miss Leona Wood and to this union have been born four children as follows: Loys, born at Cripple Creek, Colorado, July 25, 1898, married C. D. Johnson and they reside in St. Louis, Missouri; Franklin P., Jr., born at Cripple Creek, Colorado, August 26, 1902, resides at home with his parents; Genevieve, bom at Smithville, June 5, 1906; and Florence, born at Smithville, May 31, 1908.

Mr. Itollins is a thirty-second degree Scottish Rite Mason and a member of the Mystic Shrine. He also belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Order of the Eastern Star. Mi's. Rollins is a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and Past Matron of the local chapter at Smithville. She is also a member of the White Shrine at Kansas City, Missouri, and holds membership in the Christian church. Mr. Rollins is a Democrat.

Alfred O. Lowman, assistant cashier of the Fanners Bank of Smithville, is a native son of Clay County and was born in Platte township, March 4, 1876. His parents were Ephriam and Ahdean (Aker) Lowman.

Ephriam Lowman was a native of Ohio, bom in Fairfield County, May 14, 1838, and came to Missouri with his parents in 1850. They settled on a farm northwest of Smithville and there Ephraim Lowman grew to manhood and attended the pioneer schools in that locality. After he was married, he settled on a farm of one hundred acres west of Smithville. He remained on that farm until 1880, when he moved to a farm one-half mile west and there spent the remainder of his life. He died May 27, 1907. He sei^ved in the Union army during the Civil War and after the war he engaged in farming and stock raising, which has been the principal occupation of his life. However, he served as postmaster of Smithville. Missouri, during President McKinley's administration.

Ahdean (Aker) Lowman, wife of Ephriam Lowman, was born in Clay County about two miles north of Smithville, February 20, 1850, and now lives on the old home place in Platte township. To Ephraim Lowman and wife were bom eleven children as follows: Georgia Ella, married W. E. Bernard ; one child died in infancy ; Willis, at home with his mother ; Charles, died December 25, 1885; Claudia, married A. M. Odor and they live at Holt. Clay County; Alfred 0., the subject of this sketch; Ephriam, lives south of Sniithville, Missouri; Lulu, married Nelse Olson and they live northeast of Smith\ille; Samuel, lives at home with his mother; Aker, also lives at home with his mother: and Mai-tha, marrietl Arch Rule, and they live near Nashua, Missouri.

Alfred 0. Lowman was i-eared on the home farm in Platte township and was educated in the district school and the public schools of Smithville. lie remained on the home place until he was twenty-one j-ears old and in October, 1897, he accepted a position in the postofRce at Smith\alle under his father who was postmaster there. He remained in that capacity until 1902 when he was appointed postmaster of Smithville and was reappointed to that office twice, serving twelve years in all. On July 1, 1914, he was appointed assistant cashier of the Farmers Bank of Smithville and has held that position to the present time.

Mr. Lowman was married at Liberty, Missouri. November 5, 1901. to Miss Lula Beiry, a daughter of G. B. and Nancy (Hall) Berry, both natives of Kentucky and now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Lo\\iiian have been bom two children: Fern Elizabeth, bom November 23. 1904, and Ralph, born September 21, 1906, both residing at home with their parents.

Mr. Lowman is a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He and Mrs. Lowman are members of the Christian Church and she holds membership in the Order of the Eastern Star and the Rebecca Lodges. Mr. Lowman is a Republican and is widely and favorablv known in western Clay County.

William Penn Rollins, now li\ing practically retired at Smithville, Missouri, is a veteran of the Civil War, has had an extensive experience and has seen much of the development of the country in which he has played an interested part. He was born near Smithville. October 22, 1841, a son of Lee and Susan (Penn) Rollins.

Lee Rollins was bom in Bourbon County, Kentucky. February 12, 1801. and came to Missouii with his family in 1830. He settled in the northwest of Clay County, where he Ixiught eighty acres of land and entered 500 acres from the government. He followed farming and stock raising throughout his life and died here July 19. 1854. His wife was bom in Bourbon County. Kentucky, September 14, 1805, and they were married in that county. She died on the old home farm in Platte township. They were the parents of fourteen children as follows : Ann, de- ceased ; Jane, deceased ; John K., who served in Colonel Doniphan's reg-iment in the Mexican War and is deceased; Harriet, deceased; Charlotte, deceased. The above mentioned were born in Bourbon County, Kentucky, and the following in Clay County, Missouri: Benjamin F., deceased; Julia, deceased; Katherine, deceased; Thomas J., deceased; Mary, deceased; William Penn, the subject of this sketch; Sophia, deceased; America, deceased ; and Joseph E., lives in Little Rock, Arkansas.

William Penn Rollins attended the subscription schools of the early days and later the district school. He taught a term of school in early life and also attended William Jewell College for a time. When the Civil War broke out, he enlisted at Springfield, Missouri, in Company G, Second Regiment, Fifth Bi-igade, Missoun State Guards. He was in the battle of Pea Ridge and after that battle was detailed to provost guard duty at Decars, Arkansas. In May, 1862, he and comrade named Hixon, rode on horseback from Little Rock, Arkansas, to Blue Mill, where they were captured by a squad of calvary and confined in the Liberty jail over night and the next morning after taking the oath of allegiance, they were released. Mr. Rollins then entered William Jewell College, but on account of the Civil War, he was forced to give up his course. He then crossed the plains with a drove of cattle. After spending a winter in the silver mines of Nevada, he went to Oregon, where he herded cattle one season. He then went to Bintish Columbia and after spending some time in Montana and Oregon, he took a river steamboat at Fort Benton and came down the Missouri River, landing at St. Joseph in 1867. He then bought a farm and was engaged in fanning for twelve years and in 1880 went to Osage County, Kansas, where he was engaged in the mercantile business until 1890. He then moved his stock of goods to Smithville, Missouri, and was engaged in business there for three years. In the fall of 1894, he went to Cripple Creek, Colorado, where he was employed in connection with the mines about seven and a half years. He then returned to Smithville and is now living retired.

Mr. Rollins was married September 5, 1867, to Rose Aker. She died July 10, 1906. The following children were born to them: Charles R., born at Bates County, Missouri, Februai-y 28, 1869, died April 9, 1896; Martha, born in Bates County, November 21, 1870, married John Morton, Smithville; Franklin P., bom in Bates County, September 9, 1871, Smithville, Missouri ; Nicholas A., born in Clay County, August 20, 1873, died October 1, 1918; Lily S., bom in Clay County, April 15, 1875, married J.

Hall iind they live in Florida ; William P., Jr., bom in Clay County, April 3, 1878, Pueblo, Colorado: two died in infancy; Rolls C, bom in Kansas, June 9, 1882, Bartlesville, Oklahoma, and the two youngest died in infancy. JVIr. Rollins is a member of the Masonic Lodge, the Christian church and is a Democrat.

M. S. Ford, a successful farnier and stockman of Platte towTiship, is a native of Ohio. He was born in Ashland County. Ohio. Februaiy 8, 1847, a son of Amos and Margaret (Bastress) Ford. Amos Ford was bom in England, and upon first coming to this countj-, settled in Pennsylvania. Later he removed to Ohio, where he bought a farm, and there spent the remainder of his life. When a young man, he learned the trade of silversmith, although he devoted the latter part of his life to farming. Margaret (Bastress) Ford was a native of Holland, and came from that country to Pennsylvania when a girl. She died in Wood County, Ohio, and is buried there by the side of her husband.

M. S. Ford was one of a family of thirteen children, born to his parents. He was reared in Ohio and received his education in the public schools. He remained on the home farm with his parents until after the Civil War broke out. when he enlisted in the First Ohio Independent Battery. During the course of his miltary career he participated in fourteen engagements, including the battles of South Mountain and Antietam. He sei-ved under Generals Sheridan and Crook. He was discharged and mustered out of sei-vice at Columbus, Ohio, June 26, 1865.

After returning from the army, Mr. Ford worked as a farm laborer in Wood County, Ohio, until he was twenty-five years of age. He then bought forty acres of land in Wood County. Later he sold that and removed to Iowa, where he bought a fann of one hundred and thirty acres, and there lived for eleven years. He then went to Red Willow County, Nebraska, where he bought one hundred and sixty acres of land and remained there two years. He then went to Logan County. Oklahoma, where he bought five hundred acres of land and remained there ten years. From there he came to Clay County, Missouri, and bought one hundred and sixty acres. In 1919, he bought his present place of one hundred and thirty acres which is located one mile north of Smithville, in Platte tov%-nship. He carries on general fanning and stock raising and has raised and fed hogs extensively. He also keeps Shropshire sheep. His place is well improved, with a good seven-room residence and other farm buildings.

Mr. Ford is also a successful horticulturist He has a fine apple orchard of thirty acres and produces a variety of apples, and has been very successful in this line of endeavor.

Mr. Ford was married in Wood County, Ohio, in 1868, to Miss Emily Oldes, and to this union have been born the following children: George, resides at home with his parents; William, resides at home with his parents; Ollie, married Frank Daniels, and they live in Oklahoma; Alvey, lives in Henry County, Missouri ; Rosetta, mamed Harry Burton, and they live in Nebraska ; Maud, married Tom Kessinger, Rosedale Kansas ; Franklin, Oklahoma; John, lives in Clay County, Missouri; Cora, married Herbert All, Clay County; and Etta, married Howard Esler, Independence, Missouri.

Mr. Ford is a Republican, and one of the progressive and enterprising citizens of Platte township. Mrs. Ford is a member of the United Brethren Church.

James W. Young, now living retired at Smithville, Missouri, is a native of Clay County, bom in Platte township, July 14, 1850. He is a son of Stephen G. and Lucy Fi-ancis (Jesse) Young, both members of early pioneer families of this part of Missouri.

Stephen Young was bom in Bourbon County, Kentucky, May 30, 1827. He came to Clay County, Missouri, with his parents in 1836. They settled on 160 acres of land which they entered from the government. Stephen G. Young was a son of Thomas and Abigal (Strode) Young, both natives of Kentucky. Stephen G. Young follovred farming and stock raising in Platte County all his life. He bought 160 acres of land in 1853 and later added eighty acres and at the time of his death he was the owner of 240 acres of well improved land where he had been successfully engaged in farming and stock raising for a number of years. He retired fi'om active business some years prior to his death and spent the latter part of his life in Smithville, where he died July 8, 1911. During the Civil War he served as captain in the Home Guard, of Platte County.

Lucy Francis (Jesse) Y'oung was born in Clay County, June 27, 1829. She was married to Stephen G. Young in Clay County in 1849, and died in Platte County, March 27, 1889, and she and her husband are buried in Second Creek church cemetery. They were the parents of eleven children as follows: James W., the subject of this sketch; Mary A., died in infancy; Luniira V., deceased; John T., Smithville, Missouri; one died in infancy; Woodford F., Portland, Oregon; Anna A., man-ied James Hayes and they live in Oregon ; Patsy M., died in infancy ; Andromacha, married Lewis Jesse, of Platte County; Willis V., Portland, Oregon; Stephen G., Jr., Platte County, Missouri.

James W. Young received his education in the subscription schools of Platte County, Missouri, and remained on the home farm with his parents until he attained the age of twenty-seven years. He then began his independent career as a farmer and stockman and for thirteen years he was engaged in farming and stock raising in Platte County. He then came to Smithville, where he remained until 1913, when he bought a small farm near town and made his home there for six years. In 1919, he returned to Smithville where he has since resided.

Mr. Young was married in Platte County, April 25, 1877, to Mrs. Angeline Downey, a widow. She died August 29, 1880. Two children were bom to that union: Stephen Leo, bom February 28, 1878, Neosho, Missouri ; and Myi-tle, born November 27, 1879, and died December 8, 1880, Mr. Young was married the second time at Plattsburg, Missouri. September 7, 1882, to Lucy Mitchell and four children have been born to this union: William M., bom August H, 188o, hves at Plattsburg, Missouri; Hebe, born September 24, 1886, died Augu.st 3, 1918 ; Geneva, born March 5, 1888, Smithville, Missouri; and Charles E.. bom October 16. 1895, lives in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Willis L. Vance, a prominent grain dealer of Smithville, Missouri, who is also engaged in the coal and feed business, is a native of Missouri and a member of an early pioneer family. He was born in Clinton County, November 18, 1865, a son of Judge Handal and Ruth (Scott) Vance.

Handal Vance was born in Clay County and was reared in this county; he was engaged in faraiing about nine miles northwest of Liberty. In 1865 he settled in Clinton County, where he remained for three years. He then returned to Clay County and bought a farm of two hundred acres where he was successfully engaged in farming and stock raising for a number of years. After he retired from active fanning pursuits he lived at Liberty for a few years, but spent his last days in Smithville \vith his son Willis L. Vance. During the Civil War he sei-ved in the Coiifedeiate army under General Lee. After the wai- he took a prominent part in politics and was elected judge of the county court of Clay County, serving two terms.

Ruth (Scott) Vance was also a native of Clay County and was here married to Mr. Vance. She died in Clinton County, in 1867. Handal and Ruth (Scott) Vance weie the parents of two children: Willis L., the subject of this sketch, and one child died in infancy. After the death of his first wife, Judge Vance was man-ied to Lizzie J. Anderson and seven children were bom to that union, two of whom are now living : Lou Ann, who maiTied Ed Ross and they live on the old Vance home place and Horace A., Orville, California.

Willis L. Vance was reared in Clay County and educated in the district schools. He remained at home with his father until he was twentyone years old when he engaged in the groceiy business at Liberty, Missouri. After three years he returned to the farm and operated rented land for three years and then bought the home place from his grandfather, Willis L. Vance. This place contained 160 acres and he was engaged in farming there until 1904. He then moved to Smithville and engaged in the grain business. However, he continued to operate his farm for two years. He sold it in 1906, although he still owns and operates the place of forty-two acres near Smithville. Mr. Vance has been successfully engaged in the grain business and handling coal, flour and feed for the past sixteen years and is recognized as one of the leaders in that line of business in Clay County. His son, Willis H. Vance is a partner in the business.

Willis L. Vance v/as first married at Butler, Missouri, March 3, 1887, to Miss Vivia Clardy and two children were born to that union. Willis H., born January 30, 1888, is a partner of his father at Smithville, Missouri : and one child died in infancy. After the death of his first wife Mr. Vance was married to Madeline Clardy, August 21, 1890, and the following children were born to that union: Edith, married Clyde Edwards and they live in Platte township and two children died in infancy. The mother died January 11, 1911. October 15, 1914, Mr. Vance was married at Excelsior Springs to Cora Asher and two children have been born to them : Emma Lee, bom February 8, 1918 ; and Lila Bell, bora February 22, 1920.

Mr. Vance is a Democrat and a member of the Masonic Lodge. He and Mrs. Vance are members of the Christian church and she belongs to the Eastern Star and the Rebeccas.

Daniel W. Williams, a prominent farmer and stockman of Platte township, who is also engaged in the grain and coal business at Smithville, is a native of Clay County. He was born on a farm near Smithville, February 1, 1857, a son of James X. and Docia C. (Judy) Williams.

James X. Williams was a native of Kentucky, bom in Bourbon County, March 26, 1826. Ke was reared to manhood in his native state and after being married drove through in a wagon to Clay County, in 1849. He first bought 120 acres of land in Platte township and later added eighty acres to that. He retired a few years prior to his death and removed to Liberty, where he died in 1901. His remains are buried in Mt. Olive cemetery. His wife was born in Nicholas County, Kentucky, in 1884. She died in Clay County, in 1866. They were the parents of six children as follows: John T. Smithville, Missouri; Julia A., deceased; Daniel W., the subject of this sketch; Elizabeth, deceased; Mary Ann, married Samuel Brooks, Kearney, Missouri; James X., Jr., deceased.

Daniel W. Williams was reared on the home farm and educated in the district schools of Clay County. He remained at home and assisted his father until he was twenty years old. He then went to Dickenson County, Kansas, where he was engaged in farming for two years. He then returned to Clay County and bought 100 acres of land which he operated for ten years. After disposing of that farm, he bought 240 acres in the same locality, Mitchell School district, in Platte township. He added 160 acres more to his holdings in 1901 and is now the owner of 400 acres of valuable farm land in Platte township. There are three dwelling houses on his place and three barns. His place is well improved and is well adapted to either general farming or stock raising. He has been a very extensive cattle and hog feeder and for a period of twenty years he has, perhaps, raised and fed more hogs for the market than any other man in Platte township. In addition to the management of his farm, Mr. Williams has been engaged in the grain, coal and feed business in Smithville since 1904. He operates in partnership with Mr. Eugene T. Brooks and they do an extensive business.

Mr. Williams was married in Platte township. Clay County, March 17, 1881, to Miss Isabell Brooks, daughter of Samuel and Jane (Smith) Brooks. Mr. and Mrs. Williams were the last couple to be married in Clay County before the law went into effect, requiring a marriage license. To Mr. and Mrs. Williams have been born four children as follows : Thomas, lives on the home place on Platte township; Jennie D.. Kansas City, Missouri;

Mr. Williams had been a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge for twenty-six years and has been a member of the Christian Church for thirty-two years. He is a Democrat. Mrs. Williams is also a member of the Christian Church and belongs to the Rebeccas.

Eugene A. Brooks, who is successfully engaged in the grain, feed and coal business at Smithville, Missouri, in partnership with D. W. Williams, is a native of Clay County. He was born in Platte township, March 13, 1860, and is a son of Samuel J. and Lucinda Jane (Smith) Brooks, a more extensive sketch of the Brooks family appears in this volume in connection with the biographical sketch of Van W. Brooks, a brother of Eugene A. Brooks.

Eugene A. Brooks was reared on his father's farm in Platte township and attended the district school. He remained at home until he was about twenty years old when his father gave him llSVii acres of the home place. Here he engaged in farming and stock raising and met with success. He bought more land and is now the owner of 2I0I/2 acres. He has made many improvements on his place which is one of the valuable farms of Platte township. He was successfully engaged in farming and stock raising until 1918, when he engaged in the grain, feed and coal business at Smithville, in partnership with D. W. Williams. They have built up a large trade and are doing an extensive business.

Mr. Brooks was married November 8, 1882, in Clay County, to Miss Alice Fleming, a daughter of Robert and Harriet (Rollins) Fleming, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of Kentucky, and both now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Brooks have been born four children as follows : Harry Lee and Vanda Ada, twins, bom January 2, 1884, the former dying in infancy and the latter is now Mrs. Homer Hamilton, of Kansas City, Missouri ; Charles A., born May 31, 1886, now engaged in farming and stock raising on his father's farm in Platte township, and Wiley, bom September 5, 1890, also on the home farm.

Mr. Brooks has been a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge for twenty-five years and is also a member of the Modern Woodman of America. He is a Democrat and he and Mrs. Brooks are members of the Christian Church and she belongs to the Rebeccas. Mr. Brooks is a progressive citizen and the Brooks family stand high in the community.

Charles N. Deaton, editor and publisher of the Democrat-Herald of Smithville, Missouri, is a newspaper man and practical printer of broad experience, having been engaged in this line of work since his youth. He is a native of Missouri, born at Kirksville, August 12, 1875, and is a son of William B. and Elizabeth (McClahann) Deaton.

William B. Deaton was also a native of Mississippi; for a number of years was engaged in farming and stock raising in Adair County. He retired to Kirksville about sixteen years prior to his death, which occurred in 1897. He spent the greater part of his life in Adair County, Missouri, coming to this state when a young man. His wife was a native of Adair County, Missouri, and is now deceased. They were the parents of the following children: Ella, married M. L. Stephens and they live in St. Louis, Missouri; George M., lives in California; Walter B., lives at Arcadia, Missouri; Edward D., deceased; Charles N., the subject of this sketch; and Portia, married Cecil Shockey, Seattle, Washington.

Charles N. Deaton Avas educated in the public schools of Kirksville, Missouri. In 1888, he entered the office of the Kirksville Journal and served an apprenticeship of three years at the printers trade. After working at the trade in Kirksville until 1892, he came to Smithville and worked on the Smithville Herald for seven years. He then published the Herald for two years when he sold out and went to Colorado. He was employed on the Advocate, a newspaper published at Sterling, Colorado, for one year. He then became manager of the Logan County Art Printery at Sterling, serving in that capacity for three years. In 1913, he retui'ned to Smithville, Missouri, as foreman of the Democrat-Herald and in 1918, he became the editor and publisher of the paper and since that time it has been under his management. The Democrat-Herald is a live weekly newspaper and has a good circulation and is for every worthy movement that is for the betterment and upbuilding of Smithville and Clay County and their institutions.

Mr. Deaton was married December 23, 1896, to Miss Stella May Jenkins, a daughter of J. H. and Julia (Powell) Jenkins, Sr., both natives of Missouri and now living at Smithville. To Mr. and Mrs. Deaton have been born two children: Paul Howard, born in Smithville, Missouri, July 6, 1900 and Charles Joseph, born in Smithville, June 21, 1903. and both live in Smithville.

L. M. Morgan, who conducts a meat market and grocery store at Smithville, Missouri, is one of the well known and substantial business men of Clay County. He was born near Indianapolis, Indiana, April 17, 1851, a son of John C. and Martha C. (Musser) Morgan.

John C. Morgan was a native of Tennessee. He went to Indiana early in life and settled on a fann near Indianapolis where he lived for some years. Later he went to Iowa where he was engaged in farming for two years. He then came to Missouri and settled on a farm in Buchanan County. He owned 160 acres of land there and made his home on that place until the time of his death, December 3, 1917, at the advanced age of ninety years, two months and twelve days. He took a prominent part in the affairs of his neighborhood after settling in Buchanan County and sei-ved as justice of the peace at Rushville for a number of years. During the Ci^^l War he served in the Union army.

Martha C (Musser) Morgan was born in Ohio, February 9, 1827, and was married to Mr. Moigan. near Indianapolis, Indiana; she died July 25, 1911, at Rushville, Missouri, and she and her husband are buried in Sugar Creek cemetery in Buchanan County. They were the parents of the following children: L. M., the subject of this sketch; Elias, deceased; Joseph E., deceased ; James E., live.s in Colorado ; Alice, a widow, who lives in Caldwell County, Missouri; Mattie, married Alex Pollard; William A., deceased; Emma, married George Pollard; Peter E., Ru.shville, Missouri; Ida, deceased ; and John, deceased. Joseph E. and James E. were twins, as were also William A. and Emma.

L. M. Morgan remained at home with his parents until he was twentyfour years old. In 1875, he went to California and for six years was engaged in farming in that state. In 1881, he returned to Missouri and settled in Clay County, where he bought a farm of 102 acres and followed farming and stock raising until 1912. He then sold his farm and came to Smithville, September 1, 1912. Here he engaged in the grocery and meat business which he has since follov.ed. He has v.\et with success and has a large trade.

Mr. Morgan was married September 19, 1878,. in California, to Miss Sue Ella Cain. She died January 11, 1912. The following children were born to their union : Myille L., born in Colusa County, California, August 26, 1879, married Frank Fry, a farmer of Platte County, Missouri ; John A., bom in California, February 18, 1881, lives at Smithville, Missouri; W. C. born in Clay Count^% Missouri, June 23, 1883, lives in Seattle, Washington ;

Anna E., bom in Platte County, Missouri, August 14, 1889, married A. L. Miller, Kansas City, Missouri ; Lewis L., bom in Platte County, July 4, 1891, lives in Kansas City, Missouri; H. C, bom in Platte County, June 29, 1894, lives in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Fannie N., bom in Platte County, October 4, 1896, married Gilbert Vossler, Kansas City, Missouri. Mr. Morgan was married the second time at Kansas City, Missouri, June 22, 1915. to Mrs. L. B. Yates.

Mr. Morgan is a Democrat, a member of the Masonic Lodge, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and he and Mrs. Morgan are members of the Christian Church. She is a rhember of the Rebeccas. Mr. Morgan is a progressive business man and a public spirited citizen.

Jefferson N. Hulse, a well-known and highly respected citizen of Platte township, is a member of a Clay County pioneer family. He was born in Platte towiiship near his present home, May 1, 1854, a son of Richardson and Catherine (Rollins) Hulse.

Richardson Hulse was borne in Greene County, Kentucky, in 1832, and was brought to Missouri by his parents in 1834. The family settled in Clay County, where Richardson Hulse grew to manhood. He learned the blacksmith trade in early life and for a number of years conducted a shop at Paradise, Missouri. He also followed farming, both in Clay and Clinton Counties, and died at Excelsior Springs, in April, 1908. His "wife was also a native of Clay County, and died in 1912. They were the parents of twelve children, as follows: Jefferson N., the subject of this sketch ; Susie, deceased ; Galen, deceased ; Eugene, lives in the state of Washington ; Clara, deceased ; Julia, lives in Kansas City, Missouri ; Lee, Paradise, Missouri; Cordie, married Benjamin Fry, and they live in Clinton County, Missouri; Richard C, lives in Clay County; May, married Benjamin McDaniel, and they live in Clay County ; Clare, lives in Kansas City, Missouri ; and Georgia, died in infancy.

Jefferson N. Hulse was reared in Platte township and educated in the public schools and William Jewell College, at Liberty, Missouri. Mr. Hulse studied medicine about three years and on account of defective hearing had to cive it up. He studied under Dr. C. W. Watts. He taught school for three years, in early life, and then bought eighty acres of land and engaged in famiing, remaining on that place for eleven years. This was in Clinton County. He then returned to Clay County, and bought a farm of seventy-four acres where he now resides. He has made substan- tial improvements on this place, l)a\ing erected neat and commodious farm buildings, and for a number of years he has successfully carried on general farming and stock raising.

Mr. Hulse was married August 17, 1876, to Miss Sallie T. Baniard, who died on February 10, 1920, and her remains are buried in the Smithville cemetery. To Mr. and Mrs. Hulse were bom the following children: Aurora, married Andy Collins, and they live in Clay County; Landy R., lives in Clay County ; Georgia, married Walter Brooks, Smithvllle, Missouri ; Mabel, married Floyd Rule, and they live near Liberty, Missouri ; and Leta, resides at home with her father.

Mr. Hulse is a member of a Methodist Church, and belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He is a substantial citizen and widely known in Clay County.

John K. Boyd, Jr., of the firm of Boyd and Dalby, general merchants at Smithville, Missouri, has been engaged in the mercantile business at that place for the past fourteen years. He was boi-n in Callaway County, Missouri, April 13, 1864, a son of John K. and Elizabeth C. (Martin) Boyd.

John K. Boyd, Sr., was a native of Callaway County. Missouri, and a descendant of very early settlers in this state. He was born August 12, 1830, and in eai-ly life was engaged in farming pursuits. Later he engaged in the mercantile business in Callaway County at a place called Boydville which received its name from his store there. He conducted a business there for a number of years, when he established a mercantile business at Millersburg and two years later he disposed of his business there and removed to Centralia, Missouri, and there engaged in the real estfite and insurance business. While a resident of Millersburg he served as justice of the peace and was elected police judge at Centralia after he located there. He made the trip overland to California during the gold excitement of 1849 and after returning to Missouri, he taught writing school at Platte City. He was a man of considerably more than the average ability and took quite a prominent part in political affairs. He was a Democrat, a Mason, and a member of the Methodist Church South. He died suddenly on election day in November, 1905.

Elizabeth (Martin) Boyd was bom near Millersburg, Callaway County, Missouri, in 1839. She was married to Mr. Boyd in 1858 and is now living in Centralia, Missouri, at the advanced age of eighty-one years. John K. and Elizabeth C. (Martin) Boyd were the narents of the follo\ving children:

Robert, deceased; Mollie, married John Willitt and they live near Fulton, Missouri; Joseph T., deceased; John K., Jr., the subject of this sketch; one died in infancy ; Sallie, deceased ; Noah, an instructor in music at Westminister Collejre, Fulton, Missouri; Annie P., deceased; and Dorah, died in infancy.

John K. Boyd, Jr., was reared in Callaway County and educated in the district school. When a young man he engaged in partnership with his father in the real estate and insurance business at Centralia, Missouri, under the firm of Boyd and Son. He was engaged in that business for a time and also worked as clerk in various stores. He had charge of the clothing department for J. R. Dalby for eight years. Then he and Mr. Dalby purchased a general mercantile store at Smithville. This was in 1906 and they have been engaged in business there since that time. They cany a complete line of general merchandise and have built up a large trade and are among the well kno^^^l and reliable merchants of Smithville and Clay County.

Mr. Boyd was married at Centralia, Missouri, May 12, 1896, to Miss Anna Tidyings and they have one child, Harold T., who was bom at Bramer, Missouri, July 6, 1900, and resides at home with his parents.

Mr. Boyd is a Democrat and a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias. Mrs. Boyd is a member of the Christian Church and the Rebeccas.

0. P. Yates, an enterprising and successful merchant of Smithville, Missouri, is a native of this state and was born in Platte County, December 16, 1920. He is a son of William and Getie (Laffoon) Yates, both membei-s of pioneer families of Clay County, whose respective parents settled here at an early day.

William Yates was born at old Haynesville, Clay County, in 1836, and was reared to manhood in this county. After his marriage he bought a farm in Platte County and was engaged in farming and stock raising there during the remainder of his life. He was the owner of 400 acres of land and was a well-to-do man. He died in 1912 and his remains are buried in Ridgeley cemetery. Getie (Laffoon) Yates is also a native of Clay County, bom near old Haynesville, of pioneer parents and she now lives at Smithville, Missouri.

ler, Smithville; Alice, resides with her mother at Smithville; twins, died in infancy ; Laurena, deceased ; Cora, married John Griffith, Ridgeley, Missouri; Myrtle, married Burke McComas, Smithville; Cappie, deceased; Jacob, deceased; Beulah, Dearborn, Missouri; 0. P., the subject of this sketch; Clay, Platte City, Missouri; Getie, married William Drais, St. Joseph, Missouri ; and William, Jr., occupies the old home place in Platte County.

0. P. Yates was educated in the Franklin district school in Platte County and remained on the home farm until he was twenty-five years old. He then came to Smithville and engaged in the men's furnishing goods and shoe business and for twenty years he has been engaged in this line of business at Smithville. His place of business is located on East Main street. He carries a very complete line of high class men's furnishings and shoes and has a large trade and is recognized as one of the reliable merchants of Smithville and Clay County.

Mr. Yates was married August 28, 1904, at Trimble, Missouri, to Miss Estelle Halstead, and one child has been born to this union: Hortense, born at Smithville, Missouri, October 9, 1907.

Mr. Yates is a member of the board of directors of the Farmers Bank of Smithville. He is a Democrat and a member of the Masonic Lodge, and Mrs. Yates is a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and the Christian Church.

Judge Joe B. Waller, a prominent farmer and stockman of Platte township and a former judge of the county court of Clay County, is a native of South Carolina, although he has spent practically all his life in Clay County. He was bom in Charlestown, South Carolina, February' 16, 1858, a son of Rev. Greenup B. and Julia (Higgenbottom) Waller.

Rev. Greenup B. Waller was born in Carroll County, Kentucky, August 26, 1816. He dealt extensively in mules in the South with headquarters at Augusta, Georgia. He first came to Clay County, Missouri, in 1854 and for a few years spent the summer months in this county, returning to South Carolina during the winter. In 1859, he brought his family to Clay County which was their permanent home thereafter. He first bought 340 acres of land south of Smithville. He owned a great deal of land and in 1873 he sold his place and settled in Smithville where he devoted the remainder of his life to preaching the gospel. He had been a minister of the Christian Church since early manhood. He died at Smithville. Octo- ber 18, 1896. His wife was a native of South Carolina and they were married in that state. She died on the Waller home place in Platte township.

Rev. Greenup B. and Julia (Higgenbottom) Waller were the parents of eight children as follows: Marion S., died April 26, 1B20; James, deceased; Joe B., the subject of this sketch; Lizzie, now a widow living at Kearney, Missouri ; Mary, a widow living in Kansas City ; Julia, deceased ; Nellie, married Will Majors of Kearney, Missouri ; and Sallie. a widow, living in Kansas City, Missouri.

Judge Waller was educated in the public schools of Smithville, and received a good common school education. He remained at home until he was twenty years of age and then worked out by the month for some years. He was overseer of the place which he now owns and for some time was a partner in its operation. He first bought 137 acres of land which he later sold and bought eighty acres. Later he sold that and in 1917 purchased his present place. He carries on general fanning and stock raising and raises a good grade of hogs.

Judge Waller is a Democrat and has always taken an active interest in local politics and a commendable interest in public affairs. He was elected county judge of the western district of Clay County in 1912 and served in that office for four years and during that time gave the public affairs the same conscientious and careful attention which he had been in the habit of devoting to his own private affairs.

Judge Waller is a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and he and Mrs. Waller are members of the Christian Church.

Allen M. Thompson, one of the well known breeders of pure bred Galloway cattle in the county, who owns and operates a large farm of six hundred acres near Nashua in Platte towTiship has been a prominent figure in the affairs of Clay County for a number of years. He was bom on the place where he now resides July 27, 1869, and is a son of Isaac B. and Charlotte J. (Lampton) Thompson.

Isaac B. Thompson was prominent in the affairs of Clay County during his life time and was one of the pioneer breeders of pure bred Galloway cattle in the country. He was bom near Nicholsville, Jessamine County, Kentucky, in 1828, and came to Clay County, Missouri, with his brother,

John A. Thompson, in 1856. They bought a farm in Platte township, first purchasing 200 acres, which is now owned by Allen M. Thompson. At the time of his death, Isaac B. Thompson was the ownei- of 475 acres of land. When the Civil War broke out Isaac B. Thompson entered the Confederate army and served foi' a time as captain of a company in General Price's division. Later, he was promoted to colonel and served until the close of the war in that capacity. He took part in a number of battles and skiiTnishes. At the battle of Lexington, he commanded the company which took the court house. He was also at the battle of Pea Ridge.

After the close of the Civil War, Isaac B. Thompson returned to Clay County and engaged in general farming and stock raising and he and his son, Allen M. Thompson, were engaged in business together. In 1881, he founded a herd of pure bred Galloway cattle which was the first to be imported from Scotland to this section of the country, and for a number of years they held the record for having more pure bred Galloway cattle than any other breeders in the United States. They raised Galloway cattle and placed them in twenty-six different states. In addition to his extensive private business, Isaac B. Thompson also took a prominent part in public afl'airs and was active in politics. He served as county judge of Clay County two terms and was a member of the State Legislature from Clay County for two tenns. He died on his home place in Platte township, March 23, 1904. His wife was a native of Clay County and was a member of a pioneer family of this section. She was born on the farm which her father had entered from the government, October 25, 1839. She died on the home place September 29, 1919. To Isaac B. and Charlotte (Lampton) Thompson were bom five children as follows: Wilkerson B., lives in Platte County, Missouri; John B., deceased; Allen M., the subject of this sketch; Lottie V., deceased; and Addie R., married W. C. Wood, of Kansas City, Missouri.

Allen M. Thompson was educated in the district school and William Jewell College at Liberty, Missouri. Early in life, he engaged in farming and stock raising with his father and for a number of years they were in partnership in breeding pure bred Galloway cattle and were recognized as the leading breeders of the country. Their cattle were exhibited at the leading fairs and stock shows and met the strongest competition with uniform success. Mr. Thompson owns 600 acres which is one of the valuable stock farms of Clay County. His place is well improved and specially arranged for stock breeding and feeding. He has four stock

For a number of years, Mr. Thompson has been prominent in the American Galloway Breeders' Association and has been a member of the board of directors of that organization for twenty years, and during that time he has served as secretary and president of the association and has held every office in that organization at one time or another. He has served on the State Board of Agriculture for six years, having been appointed by Governor Folk and reappointed by Governor Major. He has served two years as president of the State Fair Board and resigned from that to accept the position of secretary and general manager of The American Royal Live Stock Show at Kansas City and held that office for seven years. He was the first president of that organization after its incorporation.

Mr. Thompson is interested in banking in addition to his other various entei-prises. He is president of the Bank of Nausha, Missouri, and was the principal organizer of that institution. He is vice-president of the National Bank of North Kansas City and a member of the board of directors of The Farmers Bank of Smithville, Missouri. In short, he is one of the most extensive men of affairs in Clay County. He is public spirited and enterprising and a strong supporter of any movement which has for its object the legitimate upbuilding and bettennent of Clay County. He is a strong advocate and an ardent supporter of the good roads movement.

Mr. Thompson was man-ied June 12, 1908, to Miss Froncie Woods, a daughter of Kemp M. and LilUe (Wiggleworth) Woods and to this union have been bom two children: Francis, bom July 17, 1909; and Louise, bom August 12, 1911.

E. P. Griffin, cashier of the Bank of Paradise, is one of the well known and successful bankers of Clay County and for many years has been identified with the commercial interests of Platte township and vicinity. He is a native of Maryland, bom in Prince George County, January 28, 1858, a son of Walter P. and Eleanor A. (Bryan) Griffin.

able farm of 240 acres of land within ten miles of the city limits of Washington, D. C. He died on his farm there in 1912. His wife who was also a native of Maryland, having been born in Prince George County, died in that county in 1905. They were the parents of the following children: Ida, deceased; E. P., the subject of this sketch; Cora, deceased; Walter was killed in the Boer War; Nellie, deceased; Fannie, now the wife of C. A. Fenner, of Springfield, Massachusetts; Robert, Washington, D. C; and Richard, died in infancy.

E. P. Griffin was educated at St. John's College, Annapolis, Maryland, and remained at home with his parents until he was twenty-one years old. He then came to Missouri, reaching this state in 1881. He remained in St. Louis for a short time and later taught school in Jackson and Clay Counties and in Kansas. He was engaged in teaching about six years in all, when he bought a drug store at Paradise, Missouri, and engaged in the drug business. Later he engaged in the general mercantile business, at the same time retaining his drug store. He was one of the organizers of the Bank of Paradise and is serving as cashier of that institution and also continues in the general mercantile business and the drug business.

Mr. Griffin was married in Clay County, May 15, 1891, to Miss Malvina W. Dryden, a daughter of William and Lucy A. (Trimble) Dryden and two children have been born to this union: Walter, died in 1912 and Francis A., born July 19, 1902, is assistant cashier of the Bank of Paradise.

Mr. Griffin is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and is a Democrat. Mrs. Griffin is a member of the Methodist Church. Mr. Griffin is one of the substantial men of affairs of Clay County and has a wide acquaintance and many friends in this county.

The Bank of Paradise, one of the substantial banking institutions of Clay County, was established October 6, 1910. The principal promoter of this bank was E. P. Griffin, who is now cashier, a position which he has held since its organization. The officers of the bank are: President, George Neth, Sr. ; vice-president, W. R. Senell, who succeeded Robert H. Dale, deceased ; cashier, E. P. Griffin. The directors are George Neth, Sr., W. R. Senell, 0. H. Weber, John T. Taul, B. M. McDaniel, C. W. Eberts, Henry Moog, who succeeded Robert H. Dale, deceased, R. H. Erminger, and Berry Wade.

J. T. Stewart, an extensive landowner and a successful farmer and stockman of Platte towTiship, is a native of the township where he now resides, and is a descendant of early pioneers of Clay County. .T. T. Stewart was bom on the farm which he now owns, November 19, 1880. He is a son of Annanias and Lucy A (Benton) Stewart.

Annanias Stewart was born in Kentucky, February 17, 1847, and came to Missouri with his parents. Henry and Maria (Hall) Stewart. Heniy Stewart was born in Kentucky, March 8, 1820, and died on his farm in Clay County, June 24, 1891. His wife, Maria (Hall) Stewart, was born in Kentucky, May 15, 1818. She died April 28, 1900, and she and her husband are buried in the cemetery at Paradise, Missouri. They were the parents of three children : Sam, deceased ; Annanias ; and one who died in infancy. Heniy Stewart and his son, Samuel Stewart, served in the Confederate Army.

Annanias Stewart was a farmer and owned 150 acres of land in Platte tovinship. He died April 20, 1887, when he was about forty years old. He was married to Miss Lucy A. Benton in Platte township, on the place where she now resides, December 21, 1876. She was bom in Kearney township. Clay County, August 6, 1854, and is a daughter of Byrd and Amanda (Ross) Benton. Byrd Benton was bom in EstiU County, Kentucky, November 26, 1818. He came to Missouri in 1833, and settled in Clay County. He was married to Amanda Ross, November 20, 1844, and died September 16, 1899. He was a progressive citizen and a man of high character. He united with the Christian Church in 1866. To Byrd and Amanda (Ross) Benton were born the following children: Elisha, born December 9. 1845, and died August 14, 1S81 ; William F., bora January 14, 1848, died January 13, 1889 ; James T., bom November 23. 1849, died August 21, 1912; Lucy, married Annanias Stewart, and now resides in Platte to^vnship; Henderson, borne March 25, 1861, died January 26, 1900. To Annanias and Lucy A. (Benton) Stewart Avere bom two children: J. T., the subject of this sketch, and Amanda, who resides on the home place in Platte township.

J. T. Stewart's father died when J. T. was six years old. After the death of his father, his mother, sister and himself went to live with his grandfather, Byrd Benton, who resided on the place where the Stewart family now lives. After the death of the grandfather, the Stewart children and their mother remained with her brothers, J. T. and H. Q. Benton, both of whom are nov/ deceased. J. T. Stewart inherited 400 acres of land from his uncle, J. T. fienton. This is one of the valuable farms of Clay County, and is well improved and specially adapted to the stock business. Mr. Stewart carries on general farming and also raises stock. He is a successful breeder of Poland China hogs, and is an extensive feeder. He carries on farming, on a large scale, and uses modem machinery and equipment. He owns his own threshhig machine. He has a number of interesting farming impiements in the form of a sort of private museum. He still has in his possession the old single shovel-plow used by his grandfather, and also an old grain cradle. He and his mother and sister live together, and the Stewart family is well known and highly respected in Platte township and Clay County. The mother is a member of the Christian Church.

Alanzo VV. Beiison, an enterprising and successful merchant, who conducts a general store at Paradise, Missouri, is one of the progressive business men of Clay County. He was born at Muncie, Indiana, August 17, 1866, a son of John and Katherine (Lewis) Benson.

John Benson was a native of Ohio and in early life removed to Indiana, where he was engaged in farming. In 1870, he came to Missouri and settled in Platte tov.Tiship, Clay County. He bought 120 acres of land and engaged in general farming and stock raising and was thus engaged at the time of his death, August 24, 1916. His widow who was a native of Indiana, now resides on the old home jilace in Platte towiiship, two miles south of Paradise.

John and Katherine (Lewis) Benson were the parents of the following children: The two eldest were twins and died in infancy; James, deceased; Elizabeth, deceased; Alanzo W., the subject of this sketch; Addison W., St. Clair, Missouri; May, married Ed Francis, Clay County, Missouri; Preston 0., lives on the hohie place; John, Liberty, Missouri; and Luther S., lives on the home place

Alanzo W. Benson was about four years old when the family came to Missouri and settled in Platte township. He received his education in the district school and i-emained on the home place until he was thirty-five years old. In early life, he operated rented land in the vicinity of his home and in 1895 he engaged in the hardware business at Paradise, Missouri. About five years later he added a general line of merchandise and for the past twenty years he has conducted a general store at Paradise. He has built up a large trade and carries a very complete stock of general merchandise. He o^vns his own building which has a frontage of twenty-eight feet and is fifty feet deep.

Mr. Benson was married January 22, 1890, to Miss Lucy D. Duncan, a daughter of William and Sallie (Mon-is) Duncan, a sketch of whom appears in this volume. To Mr. and Mrs. Benson have been bom four children: Sussie M., deceased; Alta M., married Curtis Hibberd and they live in Clay County ; Walter, lives at Colorado Springs, Colorado ; and Lorena B., lives at home.

Mr. Benson is a Democrat and Mrs Benson is a member of the Methodist Church, South. Mr. Benson has an extensive acquaintance in Clay County and stands high in the community.

Charles M. Killgore, of the firm of Jones and Killgore, extensive farmers and stockmen who own and operate a large tract of land in Platte township, is a native of Missouri. He was born in Clinton County, November 10, 1875, and is a son of John B. and Amanda (Jones) Killgore.

On September 6, 1899, Charles M. Killgore was married to Miss Helen Land, a daughter of E. B. and Ida (Wilson) Land, the fomier a native of Virginia and the latter of Clay County, Missouri. To Mr. and Mrs. Killgore have been born five children, as follows: Edwin A., Charles A., John B., Helen L., and Mary F.. all of whom reside at home with their parents.

Martin A. Scott, a progi'essive and enterprising farmer and stockman of Platte towTiship, who is operating 210 acres of land, was bom in Clay County, February 20, 1875. He is a son of James R. and Rosa (Aker) Scott. A more extensive history of the Scott family appears in this volume in connection with the biography of James R. Scott.

public school education. He remained at home until he was twentyeight years old, when he was married and went to Caldwell County, Missouri, where he operated rented land for three years. He then went to Clinton County and was engaged in farming for five years. In 1913, he returned to Clay County and rented the place which he now operates.

In 1914, his father bought the place which Martin A. Scott has continued to operate until the present time. He carries on general farming and stock raising and has met with success.

Mr. Scott was married at Plattsburg, Missouri, in 1904, to Miss Cecil Holmes. She is a daughter of William and Eliza (Shephard) Holmes, both natives of Ohio. William Holmes served in the Union army during the Civil War. To Mr. and Mrs. Scott have been born three children: Martin A., Jr., born August 17, 1912; Letta May, born November 15, 1915; and Margarie Winifred, born August 8, 1920, all of whom reside at home with their parents.

Mr. Scott is a Democrat and takes an active interest in local affairs. He has served as a member of the school board in Mitchell district and has been president of that organization for six years. Mrs. Scott is a member of the Royal Neighbors and the Methodist Church. He has an extensive acquaintance and stands high in Clay County.

Lee R. Aker, a well known and successful fanner and stock raiser of Platte township is a descendant of one of the early pioneer families of western Clay County. He was born on the place where he now lives, October 1, 1852, and is a son of Martin J. and Ann (Rollins) Aker.