Clinton County, Missouri - The whole text, 1881 (part 8 of 11)

George Dexxv

farmer and stock raiser, is the owner of 266 acres, on sections 21 and 22. He was born in Xorth Carolina, in 1826, and came to Missouri, with his father, in 1835, settling in Clay County, where he remained for two years. In 1837. the family moved into Clinton County. In 1850. with Judge Coffman and John Douglass, George Denny went to California, he remained two years, being successful in his business. He then returned home, bought a drove of cattle, took them to California in iS;;. and again remained two years. Returning in 1856. he bought the old liomestead, aiid has lived on it since. He married Miss Virginia Snoddv. of this county, in 186S. They have four children: Rufus A., Ralph K.. Nancy Jane and Virginia Susan. Mrs. Denny died January i, 187; Mr. Denny is one of the best stock men in the county; has a farm well adapted to raising and feeding stock. He spent two years in Montana and Salt Lake City, and has been successful in all his speculations, good use of his means. George Denny, Sr., the father of the subject of this sketch, died at the residence of the latter, March 24. 1879, in his ninety-sixth year. Father Denny, as he used to be called, \vas born February 15, 17S4, in Guilford County, North Carolina. His ancestors were original!}- a part of a Presbyterian colony, which settled in that count)- in the days of his grandfather, and organized the Buffalo Presbyterian Church, noted as being under the pastoral care of Rev. David' Caldwell. D. D., for a period of sixty years. Mr. Denny was married, January 14, iSoS, to Jane Kennedy, who died January 10, 1866. in the seventy-seventh year of her age. Shortly after their marriage, they united with the Buflalo Church. Mr. D. emigrated to Missouri, with his family, in 1835. In 1837, he settled on the farm, in Clinton County, where he died, four sons and three daughters surviving him. His funeral service was held in the Old Bethel Church. His remains were tenderhlaid away- in the church yard, by the side of his beloved wife. His children, and his childrens" children, to the fourth generation, were present at the solemn service. Through nearl>- a centur\- his quiet, happy and useful life flowed on. Almost to the last he was free from the infirmities of age. His form was erect, he never walked with a cane, and his eyes had but a little of the dimness of years. AUva\s bright. sunny and cheerful, he calmly waited for the change, and then pas>ed away. The children who sur\-ive are : Levi, William M., John A., Newton, Xanc}-, Mary Jane, Xitha and George.

farmers, stock raisers and dealers, section 2. This firm is composed of Salem Dever, and R. Adkinson. The former was born in Madison County, Kentucky, in 1835, and came to this county with his father in 1857. He commenced his business career by purchasin;^ a small portion of the farm \vhi(.li he and his brother-in-law, Mr. Adkinson, now occupy. They went to work with a will, and have been fortunate in tlieir business, adding, from time to time, to their farm, so that, now, they own 165 acres of choice land. They have a hne farm, well improved, and upon which is a good house. Mr. R. Adkinson married to Miss L. Dever in 1865. William Dever, the father of Salem, was born in Madison Count}-, Kentucky, March 9, iSoS, and came with his family to Clinton County in 1857, settling in Hainesville ; as 'he was a stone mason he did much of the mason work in that vicinity for many years; he married Miss Jane Clark, in Kentucky, 1S29; they have had seven children : Xancy Jane, George, John Campbell, Salem, Sarah, and Ludica. He is an excellent workman and citizen, his judgment often being "sought and adhered to; his home is with his son and daughter. Mrs. Dever, his o^-. ] ^p.i f^;;f;.f_i ^oiiipaniou, died August 19, 1S72, leaving besides her aged husband, many relatives and acquaintances to mourn her loss.

Thomas J. Hubbard

farmer, section 17, was born in Garrard County, Kentucky, November 3, 182 1, and came to Clinton County, in 1849, soon buying the farm where he now lives, which now contains 180 acres. He married Miss Elizabeth J. Reynolds, a daughter of David \V. Reynolds, of this township, July 12, 1849. She was a native of Madison County, Kentucky. They have two children, \Vm. B. and Thomas G. \Vm. B.. married Lovina E. Tutton, and they have one son, fifteen months old. Mr. Hubbard earlyconceived the idea of making stock raising his principal business, consequently, was eager to improve his stock. He bought the first blooded male which was brought into the county, and which has proven to be one ; of the best in the country. He also put in place the first set of farm

Jackson Townmiip

T. learned the tanner's trade of his fath-jr, and worked at it until he came to Clinton County in 1856, when he bought his farm, now containint,^ 566 acres. He early commenced feeding and dealing in stock, and has made it his principal business through life. He has a fine farm, well adapted to his avocrtion, and has one of the best residences in this part of the county. His long experience in buying stock and his extensive acquaintance and honorable dealing have given him the advantage over many others. Mr. K. has some 1,300 head of cattle, which were bought in Washington Territory and driven to Wyoming Territory, where they are being fattened. He married Miss Mellissa Pavey, of Ohio, December 18, 18^13. The result of this union was eight children : Lettie fwife of James Y. Whitsitt), Charles T., Henry H., Thomas C, Fannie, Lizzie, Leroy and Emma. Thomas C. married Miss Eva Dillon, of Ohio. Mr- Kelly has taken great interest in giving his children the best advantages for an education. Fannie has received a thorough course in school, and is now one of the teachers of the Central College, at Lexington, Missouri.

was born in Platte County, Missouri, in 1852, and received a good education, chiefly by self application. Resolving on the practice of medicine as his profession, he commenced its study at Walden, Missouri, and subsequently learned the drug business thoroughly. He attended lectures at the American Medical College, of St. Louis, in 1877-8, but practiced two years in Platte County before attending lectures. He then located in Holt, where, by his skill and strict attention to business, he has gained an enviable reputation. Several young men who have studied with him have since graduated with high honors, and are becoming successful in their practice. The doctor is a close student and is ever seeking to further qualify himself, by study and practice, to cope with all the diseases of the human family, and become more perfectly skilled in the departments of surgery.

Austin R. King

farmer, was jDorn in Orange County, North Carolina, May 8th, 1800. In 1855, he came to Clinton County, Missouri, and settled in Jackson Township, on section 25, buying eighty acres of land. He located forty acres,. and commenced raising hemp, and was successful in that business. After having received a very thorough education, he had four years experience in a large store in Huntsville, Alabama, where he became a leading salesman. He. married Miss Susan McRorry, in Orange County. North Carolina, February 27, 1827. She was a schoolmate of his, and they grew up in the company of each other. Mrs. K. was a devoted christian worker, the church, the poor and sick, beincj the first objects of her charities. Mr. King ser\ed as justice of thi; peace for many years, and has been an active Democrat tlirough life. He is a noble ^gentleman, belonj^ing, as did his wife, to the Christian Churcii. Uncle Kinc;, as he is familiarl\- called, is one of the earliest and oldest settlers of the count)', arid has made man)- friends, and al\va\'s retained them. His beloved companion died June 9, i<S75.

James C. Madden

farmer and stock raiser, sections 21 and 28, was born in Tennessee, June 23, 1828, and came with his father to Clay Count)-, Missouri, in 1847. In 1S50, he went to California, remaining two )'ears, working in the mines, at which he was quite successful. Upon returning to Cla)" Count)-, after looking about for awhile, he bought a farm in Ray Count)', where he remained until 1S61, when he bought the farm on which he has since lived. He has one of the finest in Clinton Count)-, and it contains 235 acres. He has a beautiful residence, and e\'er)-thing about betokens thrift and refinement. The farm was originall)- owned b)- W'illiarn Ledgw-ood. A. M. Streeter was a squatter on it fift)- )ears ago. Mr. M. is greatl)- interested in blooded stock, and has a number of excellent animals. He is a prominent member of society, and does much for the advancement of education in the wa)- of erecting school houses, etc. Mr. Madden was married to Miss Nancy Jane Hardv.-ick, of Clay County, January 5, 1834 The)- have ten children: Fannie, George A., James T., Fleaty J.. Nancy Ann, Sophronia Isabella, Minerva. Lela, Myrtle and Orpha. Mr. 'SI. has earned his own wa\- -through life, having commenced with nothing, and now, surrounded b)- his family, can enjo)- the fruits of his own industry. Mr. and Mrs. Madden and part of the famil)- are members of the Christian Union Church. Mr. M. also belongs to the Masonic lodge at Holt, and is one of its acti\e members.

Vincent Morrow

farmer, section 23, was born in Orange Count)-, North Carolina, November 18, 1S08. He was raised a farmer, and received but limited educational advantages, although making the best use of what he had. He married Miss Sarah Jane Morrow, of Orange County, North Carolina, in 1S35. They have, as the result of this union, six children : Robert S., Joseph M., W'm. V., Annie, ^lary Jane, and Susan Emily. Mr. M. came to Ray Count)-. Missouri, in 1S42. and remained there until the spring of i860, when he came to Clinton County, and bought his present farm. He commenced in life with ver)- little means, and has moved quietly along, and has been moderately successful. His finely improved farm contains 2iOacre>. His son, William \'. Morro^v, was married to Miss Jennie Lambeth. Au^^ust 24. 1.S81. Havin^^ started out uikler such fiivorable auspices, it is to be hoped that theirs will be a life of joy.

Christophkr Perkins

farmer, section 12, is a son of David Perkins, who was born in V'irc^inia and li\ed in this county for man\- years, dyinj; March 4, 1854, at the advanced age of ninety-nine years. Christopher was born in Kentucky on the 9th of September 1804, and remo\-ed to Missouri in September, 1826, settling in this count}- in 1838. He bought a farm near Jcfter-^tm City, on which he lived for ten \'ears and then came to this place ami located 160 acres of land. He has since added to his original purchase Until at the present time his landed estate consists of 1,500 acres. He married Miss Elizabeth Fulkerson, a native of Virginia, INIarch 6, 1830. They had a family of eight children, four of whom are now living - Sarah F., i\Iary Matilda, Martha E. and Celia. Lost four - James 'SI., died in 1861, leaving two children, Christopher and James; Sarah F., married A. Peterman, and died December 4, 1859, leaving two children, VViiiie B. and Luella M.; Nancy J., died at the age of fourteen, and Rebecca in infanc}-. His worldly possessions when he settled here consisted of a pony and twent\--five cents in m.oney. By industry and economy he has save a competency for his declining \-ears. In his religious preferences he is a Baptist, and is also a member of the Masonic fraternity. Mrs. Perkins died Februar\' 20, 1880, lacking onl}- a few days of their fiftieth marriage anniversar\-.

farmer, stock feeder and dealer, is the owner of 280 acres on section 26, and eight}- acres in Ra}- Count}-. He was born in Greene Count}-, Illinois, in 1841, and lived there until 1S68, when he came to Clintoii Count}-, Missouri, here buying the farm, where he resides. The present extensive improvements, in fences, orchard, etc., and his superior skill in culti\ating land, and, also, in feeding stock, show that he is in advance of the average farmer. He is a large feeder of and dealer in stock, and besides owning many cattle and hogs, he has some fine horses. He has been twice married. His first wife was Miss Nancy Witt, whom he married March 17, 1862. Thev had six children : Inez, P'fifie, Orson. William, Morris, and Louis. ]Mrs. R. died April 29, 1874. His second wife was Nancy Claflin, of Greene County. Illinois, to whom he was married Januar}- 26, 1875. B}- this union the}- have two children: Edgar and Georgia. Mr. R. has been a hard working man, meeting with the usual obstacles in life. The-.e he has overcome and is the possessor of as

Jesse B. Tuggle

(deceased), was born in Virginia in iSii, and with his father moved to Knox County, Kentucky, and remained until he came to Clinton County, Missouri, in 1843. Here he bought 200 acres of land of a Mr. Totter. and soon had an excellent home. He married Mis.s Nitha H., dau-Thter of George Denny, in 1S46. By this union there were nine children: Nannie, James .M., Henry Clay, Mary Lizzie, Virginia Belle, Martha K.. Susan Alice, George B., Jesse Pearl. Mr. Tuggle died in 1870, and left the large farm of 1,100 acres, on section 23, to his widow and children. Mrs. Tuggle has since kept the family together, the sons cultivatinothe farm. Few^ women could manage so large a farm and family as wisely, and at the same time so judiciously. Mr. Tuggle was a Democrat in politics, but not an office seeker ; still he was active at elections in helping to secure honorable and reliable men to hold important positions. He was not a member of any church, yet he contributed liberally lor tlie support of the Gospel and benevolent objects, and did much toward the advancement of education. Mrs. Tuggle is a consistent member of the Presbyterian church. She has a larger circle of warm friends than generally falls to the lot of one to enjoy.

Alfred Whitsitt

farmer, is the possessor of 200 acres of land on section 21. He was born in Orange County, North Carolina, January 9, 1805, and came to Missouri in 1830, settling in Clay County, and in 1839 he came to Clinton County. Here he bought a tannery near Hainesville, operated it for a while, when he sold out and bought a farm, which he subsequently disposed of and repurchased at different times. He finally bought his present farm of his father, who had settled there in 1S39, ^'^"c^ there he has since continued to live. Mr. Whitsitt was married in June, 1839, to Miss Sarah J. Baxter. They have seven children : \Vm. \V., Ann. James Y., Margaret, John B. and Sarah Adda. Mr. \V. has belonged to the Christian Union Church for many years, and is a devoted member and liberal supporter thereof He was one of the earliest settlers here, and has seen many hardships and passed through many trials and discouragements incident to pioneer life. These have been overcome, and now he is a man honored and respected by all, and one whose counsel is cherished by many.

Patrick Courtney

farmer and stock raiser, section 5, post office Plattsburg. The subject of this sketch is a nati\'e of IreLind, and was born on St. Patrick's da\-, March 17, 1S22, and in honor of the da}- he was named Patrick. At the age of 28, he emigrated to this country, settling- in Kentuck}-, and after remaining there about three years, he moved to Indiana, where he made his home for five years. In 1S59, he again came west, and settled in Kansas, where he remained about six years, and, in 1866, emigrated to lilts »_uuiii.v', seLLiing w iiere he now resides. Mr. C. has had varied changes in life, but this has enabled him to proiit by his own, as well as the experience ot others. He is one of our successful farmers, and an honest and affable gentleman. He was married in the fall of 1852, to Miss PLUen Burns. The result of this union was six children : John, now deceased ; Ellen, now deceased ; Bridget, now deceased ; Mollie, now deceased ; William P. and Mary A. Three died in infancy. They are members of the Catholic Church.

farmer and stock raiser, section 1 1, post office Plattsburg, although not one of the oldest pioneers, is, nevertheless, a man who has figured conspicuously in the agricultural and stock raising interests of Northwest Missouri. He i-; a native of Bourbon County. Kentucky, and was born October 7, 1S33. He was raised in the occupation he now follows, and received a good public school education. At the age of twent\--three, he emigrated to Missouri, settling in Clay County, in 1S65, from whence he removed to this county, and located where he now resides. He has a fine residence on his place, and his farm consists of 1,090 acres of some of the best land that the county contains, most of it being in a high state of cultivation. As a stock raiser, he is widely known. He has a herd of short horns second to none in this district. He has done much towards raising the grade of stock generalh". Mr. D. was married June 17, 1856, to Miss Georgia McCoun. They ha\e had seven children : Mary L., AUie O. ^'deceased}, Carrie P., John L., George C, James P.

and Sallie H. Mr D. is a member of the Masonic fraternit\-. and aUo bclonLjs to the Christian Church, and is one of the oricjinal members of Fair\'ie\v Church, of this township.

A. S. Fry

eldest son of Solomon Fr\-, a distinguished pioneer of th.e count}-, and of Susan, his wife, was born in Clay Count)-, Missouri, January 29, iS2'). The first school he attended was tauc^ht b\- Colonel W'inslow Turner, on Rush Creek, in Clay Count}-, near the town of Libert}-. He afterwards attended a school taught in a building erected b}- his father, for that purpose, in Hardin Township, Clinton Count}-, throe mile^ southeast of the village of Bainbridge, his last scholastic instruction he receixed from a private teacher in his father's famil}-. Mr. Fr}- is a man of enlarged views, and has traveled considerabl}- o\-er the continent. Among other excursions he made, with a part}- of friends, a pleasure trip to the Rocky Mountains, in 1S75. His farm of 400 acres, six miles south of Plattsburg, is one o( the best conducted in the count}-. He i= p breeder of cattle, atv.i was among the first to introduce stall feeding into the count}-. .Mr. Fr}- has supplied the market with more first class cattle than an}- other man in the township. His uniform success in this department of enterprise, prompted him lo attempt the short horn cattle business, in which he has made a successful start with specimens of the Josephine, Young Mar}- and Rose of Sharon, families which he imported from Kentuck}-. For one Rose of Sharon cow and calf he paid. $i.iOO. Mr. Fr}- is not a member of any religious organization. He is, however, a Master Mason, and was made such in Plattsburg Lodge, A. F. and A. M., in 1875. He has been three times married; first, in 1S56, to 3.1iss Emma Bland, formerl}- of Clay County. She died in 1858, leaving no children. In 1859, he married Miss Alice Lindsay, originall}- from Kentuck}-. He had b}- this union one child, a son. Perry P'ry, now a clerk in a drug store in Plattsburg. Mrs. Fr}- died in i860. In 1S61, A. S. P>y married his third wife, ]\Iiss Emma Simpson, a native of Kentuck}-. The}- ha\e four children : Cora. Emma, Albert and Mary.

section 6, post office Plattsburg. a prominent farmer and stock raiser of this district, is a native of Clark Count}-, Kentuck}-, and was born Januar}- II, 1832. He moved from there at an early age to Buchanan Count}-. Missouri, but remained onl}- a few years, when he came to this count}- and settled where he now resides. W. R.. the father of the subject of this sketch, was a pioneer 'of Virginia, and closely identified with the agricultural interests of that state. He was born April r, 1791. and died ill 1870, at tlic ad\anccd :\'^c of ciL;ht_\--ei;^dU )'cars. W. M. has o\-cr sc\"ciit_\--two acres of good land, all of which is in a high state of cultivation, lie was married in 1852 to Rosana Cassity, a very estimable lady. The result of their union is three children : Martin J., Arena S. and Gessella N. They are both members of the Christian Church.

fi^^irmer and stock raiser, section 2, post office Plattsburg, is a native of Missouri, and was born March 2, 1837. He was raised and educated in this county, and iiioved to his present location in 1861. William, the father of the subject of this sketch, was an old pioneer of this county, and a man who was closelj' identified with its earlier development ; his death occurred in 1840. G. 'M. Hiett has 163 acres of good land, all of which he cultivates, and upon which is an excellent residence, and his improvements generally, denote the progressive and successful farmer. Mr. IT. was married May 17, 1866, to ^liss Caroline Shaver, a lady of refined taste and genial habits, and a daughter of an old pioneer of this district. They have, from this happy union, four children: William B., Isaac i\., busan J., and Charlie S. 'I'hey are members of the Christian Church. - ^ ,

(deceased) was among the oldest settlers of this district. He was a native of Virginia and was born in 17S1. He was there raised to manhood, and at an early day emigrated to Kentucky, where he remained following the occupation of farming for about twenty years. In 1830. he emigrated to this state and settled in Clay County, where he resided about si.x years, after which time he removed to this county and located on section 2, where his son now resides. He was married January, 1S23, to Miss Emma Xash, a lad}- who is still li\"ing at the ad\'anced age of eighty-eight. They had si.x children - Sallie, George M., Galatin S., John P.. Willian H. and Winston T. Mr. H.'s death occured April 8, 1861.

Winston T. Hanks

is a native of Missouri, and was born No\'ember 16, 1840. He was raised in the occupation he now follows, and is a successful and enterprising young farmer. He has 164 acres of good land, most of which he cultivates. He was married Januar\- 1 i. 1881, to Miss Gennetta A Broce.

C. C. Miller

<Tratecl with the famih- to Missouri. His father, Daniel, who was an oM pioneer of this state, was a ci\'il enc^incer, aiul one of the cori)s who surveyed the greater part of Missouri and Arkansas. They moved from this county to California in 1S50. and he there died, June 9, 1853. In 1S69, C. C. Miller again returned to his native state, where he has since reside(i. He owns 180 acres of good land, most of which is under cultivation. Mr. ?kliller is a practical farmer and stock raiser, and a man of honest worth in the communit)- in which he resides. He was inarric<l April 28, 1872, to Miss Mooney, a lady worth)- in every particular of him. They have four children: Floyd K., Lena B., Nellie F. and C. C. They are members of the Christian Church and contribute liberally to its support.

Judgf B. Shaver

section 26, post office Plattsburg, an old settler, a large and successful farmer and stock raiser of this district, and one who has been closely identified with the interests of the county almost from its organization, is a native of Virginia, and was born D>;cember 30. 1822. He was raised and educated in his native state, and in 1847, emigrated to Missouri settling in Clay Count)-, where he remained for one year. After this, he moved to Clinton County, and located where he now resides. He has 1,320 acres of good land, most of w-hich is under cultivation. Judge S. was married in 1S45, to Miss Susan Trout. They have, from this union, six children : Carrie, Jacob H., George \V., Julia A., John W. and Charles P. Mr. S. was the people's choice for county judge, in iS78.and was elected to that position, the duties of which he continued to faithfully discharge until the expiration of his term. He is at present (18S1) school director of his district. Both Judge and Mrs. S. are members of the Christian Church.

farmer and stock raiser, section 1 1, post office Plattsburg. although among the younger class of farmers, is, nevertheless, one of the most successful men in the county. He is a native of ^Missouri, and w-as born October II, 1854. He was raised in the occupation he now follows and received the advantages of a good education. He was married March 4, 1880, to Miss Mollie Bo)-dston, an estimable lady of refined taste, and one who makes home happy. He ha5 120 acres of good land, nearly all of w-hich is under a good state of cultivation. He has, where he lives, a good residence, well located. Mr. S. is a member of the Protective Association, and, also, belongs to the Christian Church, and contributes liberally towards its support.

farmer and stock raiser, sections 17 and 20, post office Plattsburg, is a native of Woodford County, Kentucky. lie was born June 25, 1816. He received a iinn'ted education in the cornnion schools of that da)' and learned the trade of brid^_^t; buildin^^ which he followed for a number of 5-ears. In 1S36 he emii^rated to Jackson County, Missouri, and while there he worked as foreman, and afterward as assistant sujjerintendent, of the Hannibal iSc St. Joseph Railroad bridi^e at Kansas Cit}-. He was a pioneer o( that city, and was prominent!)- identified with the mechanical interests in that place. He was at different times in the emplo)' of the Carter Bridge Company, of St. Louis, and worked ujjon the Fishing River bridge, Dixie Creek bridge, and man\- others. . In the winter of 1 87 1 he removed to this county, where he has since resided, and has been activel)- engaged in agricultural pursuits, in which he has been ver)- successful. He was married September 9, 1845, to Miss Rebecca Forbes. The result of this union was : Lycurgus, Pienry, Joseph and Richard. ]\Ir. and Mrs. S. are both members of the Christian Church. Mr. S.'s estate consists of eighty acres of good land, all of -which he cultivates.

Josiah Stoutimore,'

farmer and stock raiser, sections 14 and 15, post office Plattsburg, is a native of the state of \^irginia, having been born in Roanoke Count)', on the 22d of April, 1S18. He was raised there and received his education and made it his home until 1S41, when he removed to Clay County, ISIissouri. In 1844, he took up his residence in Buchanan County, and in ]\Iarch of the year following (1845) came to Clinton County. Mr. S. is the owner of 450 acres of fine land, most of which is under cultivatioji. He was a member of Colonel Hughes' regiment of the Confederate arm\- during the late war, in which he did efficient service for about eight months. IMr. Stmitimore has been twice married. First, in 1843. to Miss xAmanda Lincoln. The result of this union was five children: Fann)- (wife of Captain Baker) Da\-id L.. Isaac Newton, William H., and John D. His second marriage was in 1S66, to Ellen J. Clark. They have had one child : Maggie L. The subject of this sketch served as justice of the peace from about 1850 to 1861. He lias been one of the foremost in promoting the interests, educational, financial and otherwise, of this township, and is one who occupies a prominent position in the estimation of all who enjo)- his acquaintance.

John M. Babkr

farmer and stock raiser, section iS, post office liainbridf^e, is among- tiic old and favorably known farmers of this count)-. lie is a native of Kentucky, born in Roonesboro April i6, 1816. There he received only a I limit'-d education, and was reared in the occupation which he now fol- I lows. In 1S36 he emigrated to this state and settled in Clay Count)-, I - where he remained two years, then moving to Platte County, where he I lived for six )-ears. He removed from there to Holt County, and after a * residence of two years in 1850 he came to this county, where he has since continued to dwell. ^Mr. B. moved to his present farm in i860. He h^< ':>n 9crf"«5 of fine land, most of which is in cultivation. Upon his place is one of the finest mineral springs in this district, and with proper improvements will be one of the most popular summer resorts. It is located on an elevated plain, and the place as a sight for a town is ; unsurpassed. He is a breeder of light and heavy draught horses, and as !: such has attaiiied no slight reputation. Mr. Baber was married February 15, 1S39, to Miss Julia A. Aker, also a native of Kentucky. Thev have from this marriage ten children : Mary E., Isham M., John A., [- Eliza A., Willis, Susan A., Jacob, Randall A., James P. and Emma F r. They are members oi' the Christian Church, and he has been at different times school director, constable and collector of his district.

farmer and stock raiser, section 36, post office Grayson, is a native of Bracken County, Kentucky, and was born July 28, 1830. He is the son of Mr. Isaac Baker, one of Hardin Township's oldest and most respected citizens. The subject of this sketch came to Missouri in 1S47, and engaged ; in merchandising at Union Mills, where he continued one year, when he went to St. Joseph, and embarked in the pork packing business with his uncle. They were among the foremost in this branch in Northwest Missouri, and operated the first set of tanks. After a few years residence in St. Joseph, Mr. B. came to his present location, where he has since continued to be a resident with the exception o( a few years spent in Nebraska. His estate consists of 240 acres of choice land, in a high state of cultivation. During his sojourn in Clinton County he has been recognized as a leader in all enterprises for the county's advancement.

To him much credit is due for the li\'e interest he has taken in securinj^ the right of wa)- for the Rock Island Road and the establishing of Grayson Station, in Hardin Township, lit is a gentleman, thoroughly familiarized with the current events of the day, and a brilliant conversationalist. Mr. Baker was married, in 1855, to Miss Xancy Grayson, a daLit;IiLci ufGcuigc W. Grayson, one of the early settlers of Platte County. By this union they have had ten children : William H., George \V., Melvina, Lizzie, John S., Ernst I. and Henry; lost three: Jessie, Clara and Joseph. Grayson Station, \vhich was located on a portion of Mr. Baker's land, was named in honor of his wife. Mr. B. is a Master Mason, and a ruling elder in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

farmer and raiser of blooded stock, section 10, post office Edgerton. The subject of this sketch, is a native of Bourbon Count)' Kentuck)-, and was born December 25, 1S29. He was there raised and educated, and followed the occupation of cattle dealing, being one of the few men who drove herds of cattle through to New York and the east at an early day. He eUii^.^.L^^ l^ ;;Iiio Si...:e jiid settled near the edge of this county, in Clay,. in 1852, and after a long residence in that county he moved across the line into Clinton County, locating on his present place, where he has since resided. He has been closely identified \\ ith the farming and blooded stock raising interests of Northwestern Missouri, and has done much toward the advancement of the same. He has at present fifty head of short horns upon his place, which will compare favorably with an)' in the count)'. Mr. B. has 321 acres of excellent land, all of which is either in pasture or under cultivation. He has a good residence and barn, which are in fine locations. He has served as justice of the peace for a term of four \'ears, and while in that capacit)' never had a case appealed. He has been also closely connected with the interests of the Female Orphan School of the Christian Church of Missouri since its incorporation, and has been local direector of that institution for a number of years. He is president of the Protective Association of his district, also treasurer of the Masonic Lodge of Edgerton and clerk of this school district. Mr. Breckenridge has been twice married - first to Miss Nancy M. Winn, February i. 1S53. From this union there were tv.'o boys, both of whom died v.hile young. Mrs. B.'s death occurred in 1S56. His second marriage was to Miss Mary Scott, also a native of Kentucky. They are members of the Christian Church, and contribute liberally toward its support.

George Buchanan

farmer, section 35. postottice Grayson, is one of the typical gentlemen of this township, and one who is well known in Clinton County. He is a native of Bourbon Count}', Kcntuck)', and was fjorn Novcnibcr_ 29, tSiTj. His father, William, was a natix'e of \''irLjinia, and came to Kentucky wlien a j-oun^ man. George was raised to manhood in his native state, recei\ini4" an education in the subscription schof^ls. In 1836, he came to Flatte County, Missouri, and made this and Cla\- Count}- his 'home for three \ears, after which he returned to Kentuck}'. In 1858, he again took up his abode for a time in Pkitte Count}'. Me v/as a resident of Texas for scx'eral years, and e\'entuall}', in 1870, located in Clinton Count}', where he now resides. His estate consists of 74 acres, all under cultixation. Mr. B. traces his lineage to English ancestors. His mother was Scdly Reed, of Virginia. He was married in 1868. to Miss Minerva Kelly, of Clinton Count}', Missouri.

farmer and raiser of blooded stock, section 31, post office Bainbridge. Although a }'oung man, he is, nevertheless, one of our largest and representative farmers and stock raisers. He is a native of Missouri, and was born in this cou''>t-\- October 13, 1854. He v/as raised upon the place he now occupies, and has 280 acres of land that will compare favorably with an}' in the count}-. He and his father, who is his partner in the blooded stock business, have 680 acres of land, making one of the finest stock farms in the state. The}- have a large herd of short horns on their place. Mr. C. was married December 23, 1875, to Mi^s Dora Hockaday. They are members of the Christian Church.

J. C. Elliott,'

farmer and stock raiser, section i.post office Bainbridge, is a son of James Elliott, \\-ho was a native of Kentuck}-, and was born Juh' 3, 179S. There he was raised, in the occupation of farming. He emigrated to this state in 1832, and settled on the place which his son now occupies. He had, at that time, 120 acres of land, all of which he put under cultivation. Such men cannot be spoken of too highl}-. He v.-as closely identified with the growth and prosperity of this count}', and v/as married January 14, 1833, to Miss Elizabeth Carpenter. The}- had, from this union, four children : Robert D., J. Carpenter, Lucrecia and Mar}- E. Mr. E. was one of the original members of the Baptist Church of Hardin Township. His death occurred September 14, 1878. J. C. Elliott, the subject of this sketch, is a native of Clinton Count}-, ^Missouri, and. with the exception of a (cw years' sojourn in the west, has alwa}'s li\-ed on the place on which his father settled. He was born December 13, 1835. He succeeded his father in carrying on the old homestead, and his success may be inferred from the fact that he has increased the original purchase, since th.it time, to 173 acres. It is excellent land and all under cultivation. J. C. was married January 24. 1S65. to Miss Scmantha Kni_i,dit, an estimable lad\- and lux'ini; wife. The}' have, from this happy marriaije, a family of three children : Jimmie KniL;ht, Clifton C. and Shelb)- B: They are -members of the 15a{)tist Church, and contribute liberally towards its sujjport. Mr. E..is clerk of thi; Pleasant Mill Ikiptist Church, drugi^ist and merchant, Gra\-son. The subject of this sketch is a native of Kentuck)-, and was born October 28. 1S31. He was there raised to manhood, and educated. At the age of twentj'-five }-ears he emigrated to this state, and settled in Plattsburg. He has follov\ed his present occupation for the past twent\--four years, and is the successor of what was known as Clark (S: Co.'s store, in Gra)-son. He is well and favorably known in mercantile circles, and a popular man with the public. Mr. ¥. has been twice married ; first, to Miss Orphia Tucker, whose death occurred in 1S62. He subsequently married Miss Susan Poteet, September 10, 1S65. They have, as a rc'^ult of this union, four children : Charlie E., Addie E., Romie N. and Juliet D. Mr. Forsee is a member of the Masonic fraternit}', and an Odd Fellow. He is at present secretar)- of Plattsburg Masonic Lodge No. 113, A. F. & A. 'M., and has held that office for the last four years. He has also held all the offices within the gift of the Odd Fellows Lodge.

E. S. Fry

a successful farmer and stock raiser on section 15, stands among the foremost of the leading men of Hardin Township. He was born in Clinton Count}-, Missouri, on the first da\- of May, 1S45, and is consequent!}'one of the county's earliest settlers. He is a son of Solomon Fry. who has been an illustrious citizen here for many }-ears. Mr. I-'ry received his education here, and is a man well informed, and a brilliant conversationalist. He was married on the sixth of February. 1S68. to Ann Eliza Deyerle, in Roanoke County, \'irginia. The result of this union was three children, one son and two daughters: Julia V.. Galen B. and Bessie M. Solomon Fry. the father of the above, was born November 24, 1797, in Frederick County. \'irginia. He made that his home until three }ears of age, and thence removed to Kentuck}-, where he remained for twent\- years, and then going to Cla}- County, Missouri About the year 1840. Mr. Fry came to Clinton County, where he thereafter continued to reside. His marriage occurred April 6, iSj6, to Susan Snap, of Vincennes. Indiana. They had a family of eight children : Helen B., born P'ebruary 20. 1827 ; A. S., born January 29. 1829; Harriet, section 28, post office Bainbrivlge. Among the well known and successful farmers of this count}', the subject of this sketch deserves special mention. He is a native of Kentuckv-. and was born DeceiTiber 15, 1820. In 1S32, he with his father's family, removed to this state, and settled in Clay County, where he followed the occupation of farming. In 1847, he emigrated to Oregon and California, where he remained three }'ears, after which time he returned to Missouri, and settled in this county, where he has since resided. In 1866, he settled on his present place, which contains 260 acres of land, all of which is under cultivation. Mr. G. was married, March 20, 1850, to Miss Martha West. Their family consists of George W., Virginia L., Ida P., Albert S. J., James M. and Xancy K. Mr. G. is a member of the Protective Association.

John M. Grayson

farmer and stock raiser, section i, post office Grayson, although not an old settler of this county, is, nevertheless, one who has been closely identified with the agricultural interests thereof. He is a native of Missouri, and was born in Platte County, (December 28, 1845. He was there raised in the occupation which he now follows. His father. George W., was an old settler and a highly respected citizen of Platte County, and a man to whom the county owes much for the interest manifested by him in its prosperity and grov^-th. He now resides in Jefferson County, Kansas. The town of Grayson was named in honor of his family. John Grayson has 180 acres of good, average land, most of which is under cultivation. He has been twice married. First, to Mi.^s Anna Belle Conwa)-. They had, from this marriage, two children^ one of whom is living, Conway. Mrs. G.'s death occured May 4, 1876. He was again married, May i, 1879, to Miss Maggie Williams. Thcv are members of the Christian Church, and contribute liberally toward.-^ its support.

J. C. Hall

farmer and stock raiser, section 19, post office Bainbridge, is an old pioneer of this county, and is a man who has been long associated with its farming interests. He was born in Tennessee, and at the age of seven \-car>, with his father's family, he removed to Missouri, and settlud in Boone Count}-. J. S. Hall, his father, was amon<;- the first settlers of that count)'. His death occurred in i860, at the a;.^e of 'j'j jxars. The mother of J. C. died in iS'S/, at the advanced age of 83. The hardships which the subject of this sketch underwent durin^^ hi> bo\'hood day> in Boone, did much toward prcpariiig him for a successful farmer of this di.strict. He has 212 acres of land, the larger portion of which he cultivates. He has been twice married; first, in 1836, to Miss J. Callaway. After living together happily for se\'cnteen \-car^. she passed away in 1853. ltja\-ing eight children; Sarah K., Jane C, William J., America A., Elizabeth A., Martha J., Thomas J. and Mary A. K. In 1855, Mr. H. was married to Mis.-, Mary MacColloch. They have from this marriage one child, George. They are membeus of the Baptist Church, Mr. H. being one of the original members of the church in his township. There is at present but one original member li\'ing besides himself.

Bird Hixsox

proprietor of saw mill, section 17, post office Bainbridge. The subject of this sketch is a native of Missouri, and was born September rS, 1842. When a small bo\', his father moved to this county, where Bird was raised and educated. He is proprietor of Hixson"s Saw and Corn Mill, a splendid structure, having a capacit)- of 5,000 feet of lumber and loi bushels of corn, per day. 'Wx. H. supplies nearly this entire district with hard wood lumber, besides supplying large firms in Kansas City with walnut. He has forty-three acres of land, fifteen acres of which is under good cultivation. He was married September i, 1867, to Miss Sarah Helms, a native of Indiana. They have, from this union, six children : Albert W., William T., Joseph F., Annie M., Oliver P. and John F. During the late civil war, Vix. Hixson was a volunteer in the F"edera! army, in Compan\- F, Sixth r^Iissouri State Militia Cavalr\-. With th.a and other companies, he remained till the close of the war, receiving his discharge April S, 1866.

farmer and stock raiser, section 31, post office Plattsburg. is one among the old settlers and prominent farmers of this district. He is a native of Mason Count}-, Kentucky, and was born June 7. 1834. He was there raised to manhood, and it was there he learned the occupation he now follows. He has 170 acres of good land, all of which he cultivates. He was married Februar}- 28. 1855. to Miss Amelia Alien. They have, from this' union, eleven children : Charles A., Mar}' S.. Adalaide, Florence, Dora M., Annie, Abner, Elias, Sabina, William, and Herndon. Mr. and ?.Irs. H. arc members of the Christian Church.

section 22, poi^t office Kci'^erton. The subject of this brief narrative is an old pioneer of this county, and a man who has been closely identified with its interests from an early day. He is a native of Kentucky, havinjT been born August i, 1816, and was raised and educated in Clark- County, lie has, from his boyhood, principally followed the occupation of farming. Emigrating to Missouri, in 1S39, he settled in Caldwell County, where he remained eighteen months, after which time he removed to Clay County. There he resitled four years, and, in 1S47, settled where he now resides, owning 500 acres of land. He is one of our most successful farmers ; has been school director for his district since 1S59, ^^'itli the exception of three years. He was justice of the peace in his district for a term of three years. Judge Lott has been three times married ; first, August 22, 1839, to Miss Sarah Duncan. They had from this union one child, James, now deceased. Mrs. L.'s death occurred in 1S42. In 184^, Miss Letitia Duncan became his wife. She died in 1845. Eighteen months afterward, or January 26, 1S47, Mr. L. v/as mr>rr.>r| t^ "\r;,,^ T.o,,;^o j The result of thi.s marriage v/as eleven children: Benjamin F., Mary E., Matilda A., Loumira A., Luella (now deceased), John R., Clara K., William, Thomas K., James E. and Nannie D. Mr. Lott is now holding the office of Presiding Judge of Clinton Count}-, having been elected to that responsible position in 187S, the duties of which he has continued to discharge faithfully and to the credit of all concerned.

William R. Newman

section 27, post office Edgerton, is a native of Kentucky, and was born April II, 1826. At the age of eleven }^ears, with his father's famil}", he removed to this state and settled in Platte County, where he followed the occupation of farming. In 1849, he came to this county, and settled where he now resides, in 1869. He has 363 acres of land, the principal part of which he has under cultivation. William, the father of the subject of this sketch, was an old resident of this county and a man of sterling worth in the community in which he resided. He raised a large and interesting famil\-, si.x of whom are now living; his death occurred in 1865. Mr. William R. Newman is a successful and progressive farmer and stock raiser, and has done much toward raising the grade of stock in this county. He was married January 10. 185 i. to Miss Martha A. Woodard. They have, from this union, nine children : Celia A., Pleasant C, Mary E.. Theodore L.. Sterling P., M. L., William J.. Henry, and Alexander R. They are members of the Baptist Church.

farmer and stock raiser, section 28, post office Bainbridge, is a native of Ohio, and was born Auc(ust 19, 1827. In 1836, he, with the faniil)-, cnii- L^ratcd to Missouri, setth"n^:^ in this C(.>unty. Thomas, his father, was an old pioneer of tliis county, and a man who was identified with the early settlement of this district. His death occcurred in 1836, at tlie aj^e of 72 \-ears. A. \V. Palmer moved on his present place in 1864. He has 100 acres of good land, most of which he has cultivated. At the breaking out of the war, he enlisted in the Confederate cause, in Company D, First Regiment North Missouri, and participated in the engagements of Camp fiollowa)-, Carthage, Wilson Creek, \)ry Wood and Lexington, w here he was taken prisoner and paroled Decemb^^r 10, by General Lane, of a Kansas regiment. Mr. P. has been twice married ; first, March 22, 1852, to Miss Martha James ; her death occurred in 1859. January i, i860, he married his present wife, Miss Maria T. Mayo. They ha\e from this marriage ten children : William H., Louisa L, Martha A., Cora L.. James T., Susan J., Fannie ^L, Mollie B., Anthony W. and Katie T. Mr. P. is an Odd P'ellow of some prominence, having held all the offices v,-ithin the gift of his lodge.

Daniel Reed

section 15, post office Edgerton, was born May 18, 1849. ^"*^^ ^^ native of this count}-, where he has been raised. John, the father of the subject of this sketch, was an old pioneer of this district, and a man closel)' connected with its interests from an early day. He was shot and killed b\' Federals in 1862. Daniel Reed is a successful young farmer, and at present is conducting the home farm, of 540 acres. This is good average land, and the larger share of it is under cultivation. Mr. R. was married September 30, 1S76, to Miss Laura- Cook, a daughter of an old settler, and a lad)- in every respect worthy of him.

Watson Reed

farmer and stock raiser, section 14, post office Edgerton, although a young man, is one of our representative farmers. He is a native of Missouri, and was born in this county June 16, 1855. He was here raised in the occupation he now follows, and in 1S75 he settled on the place v.here he now resides. He has 296 acres of land that will average with an}- in the state, most of which is under cultivation. Mr. R. was married September 6. 1874, to Miss Anna Worth. They have two children : Albert and Elmer.

W Illlxm M. H. Slavtox

(deceased), the subject of thi^ sketch, was a nati\e of Rentuck}-, and \\as born August 7, 1S31. He eniiL^rated to this state and settl'.'d in Clay CuunLy, in 1844. where he resided till 1866. when he renioved to Clinton Count)' and settled where his sons now reside, on section 8. He was a ni.m of sterliii;^ worth in tlie comir.unit\-, and at hi> death the lost a represcntati\"e farmer. His death occurred February 4, 1872. J. W'., and G. \\'.. sons of the above, liave. since tlieir fatiier's demise, successively managed tlie home place, and are \"(jung men of good habits and char,icter. The)' will, without doubt, one day make their mark in life, no matter in what position they are called to fill. Their father, at his death, left a witlow and se\-en children.

farmer and stock raiser, section 24, is a native of South Carolina, and was born Juh' 7. i82'j. There he was raised to manhood and educated, and in 1853 emigrated to Florida, where he remained one \-ear. After this he removed fron~i there tn North Carolina, where he made liis liome for about tweKe months, and then emigrated to Kansas, in which state he -.remained three years. During his residence there he participated in was known as the Kansas war. He afterward came to this state and settled in Platte Count}'. At the breaking out of the war he enlisted dn the Confederate ser\'ice, in which he remained six months. At the close of the w ar he moved to Illinois, where he remained one year, when he returned to Missouri and settled in Buchanan Count}'. After a short time he came to this count}', and. after leasing his present farm for some time, he purcliased the place on which he now resides. He has eighty acres of land, most of which is under culti\'ation. Mr. S. was married January 14. iS<5o, to Miss Hannah W'oodard, and they have from their union a famih' of Emma A., Mar}' E.. Henr}' E., Alice, \'idan, James R.. Lance. Langdon, Eaurel and William. They are member of the Presl)}'terian Church, and are liberal contributors thereto.

farmer and stock raiser, section 4, post office Plattsburg. Among the settlers of this district, and those who have been closeh' identified with the interests of this county from an earh' day. ma}' be mentioned the subject of this sketch. He is a native of Virginia, and was bi^irn March 4, 1822. There he was raised, and received a common school He emigrated to this state in 1S52. and located where he now resides, owning 500 acres ot land, which will a\erage with an}' in the count\'. Most . of it is under cultivation. Mr. S. has been twice married; first, in 1847. to Miss Klizabi.th I'ittit. H>- tin- marria;^^c they had two children. James \\'. and Mar\- \' Mrs. S.'s death occurred in 1.S5S. Two years after, or in 1S60, he married Miss Kliza Martin, .in estimable lady. They have four children: Edward. Luc)- A., Jac(jb J'>. and I'loyd D.

Jac015 Walkkk

farmer and stock raiser, section 34, post office Platt^bur-. This popular gentleman is one of Clinton County's most respected citizens, and has contributed an ample sluire towards its de\elopment. He was born -in Fayette County. Kentucky, July 31, 1809. His father, Henry, w<is a nati\e of Mar\-land. and migrated to Kentucky at an early day. The subject of this sketch spent his early days on the farm, and resided in his native state until 1831, when he came, to Missouri, locating in Clay County. There he resided until the spring of 1834, v.-hen he came to Clinton County, locating on the tract of land which he now occupies. The county, at that time, was sparsely settled, there being but few residents in his neighborhood. Mr. Walker opened a farm, and has since -K.,«,, n r>'-o.;-.<"Ti,->r.t: ner^^on r-mong tlie agriculturists of the count}-. He first entered 120 acres of land, and has been adding, at times, until his estate consists of 250 acres of choice land, convenientl}- located to Plattsburg. A neat and attractive residence adorns his farm. At an early day' he discovered upon his land some springs, which possessed o-reat medicinal properties, and for years was known as Walker's Chal)--. beate Springs. However, they were never brought prominently before the public until the spring of i88[, when the water was analyzed, and the name changed to that of the Peerless Springs, a sketch of which i^ given in another part of this history. Mr. Walker has been twice married ; first to ^vliss Cynthia Fisher. By this union they had five children, three of whom are living: Sarah A., Nancy C. and John L. ; two died in infancy. Mrs. W. died in 1S37. The maiden name of his present wife ^vas Charlotta Jones. By the latter union there were eleven children, ten now living : James H., Susan A.. H. C, Permelia J., Brazelton A., Theo. F. (deceased'j, Alice G., Rebecca I., Thomas W., Edward J. and Fannie.^ The latter is married, and resides in Kentucky.

James A. Wixx

farmer and stock raiser, section 1 1, post office Grayson, stands prominent .among the representative agriculturists of this district. He is a native of Ke"ntucky, and was born November 7. 1832. He was there raised and educated, and. in 1850. emigrated to California, settling in Placerville. There he embarked in mining, which he followed two years, and afterward removed to this state, and settled on the place where he now resides. Ho has 395 acres of laiul, most of whicli is under cu!ti\-atioi<. and upon which is a nice residence. His improvements jrenerally, arc of the first order. He has been twice married. I'Mrst, to Miss Virginia .\. Dunlap, a native of Virs^inia. They had, by this union, three chiklrcn : Emmet G., Charles D., and John. Mrs. Winn's death occurred Ma)- 1 ^. iS/j. He was again married December 15, 1874. to Miss Carrie C. Tremble. They have, from this marriai^e, two children : William 11, anil Annie M. Mr. W. is a member of the Protective Association. Ilc and his wife belong; to the Presbyterian Church, and are liberal supporters of the same.

R. G. Anderson

farmer and stock raiser, section 30, post office Plattsburg, is a native of Kentucky, having been born in Monroe County, August 31, 182 1. When quite young, his parents removed to Tennessee, where he was raised to manhood and educated, his early life being spent in tilling the soil. In 1S51, or 1S52, he came to Clinton County. Missouri, locating in Platte Township, where he was identified with its progressive farmers until 1877. when he removed to his present location. His estate consists of eighty acres of land, well cultivated. Mr. A. possesses those traits peculiar to a Kentucky gentleman, and is popular with all who may form his acquaintance. He has been three times married. First, to Miss Angelina McCrowder, who died, leaving three children, two of whom are living, Sallie and Jane ; John, deceased. His second wife was Miss Julia Pioyd (now deceased). By this union there were five children, four of whom are living : Julia. Mary, William and James ; lost one, Susan D. His present wife was Miss Sarah Randolph. They have had five children, four of whom survive : Maggie, Franklin, Robert and George ; Ir.st one. Maggie. Himself and family are closely connected with the Christian Church.

Genkral David R. Atciiisox

Ex-Senator David R. Atchison, of Missouri, was born at Frogtown. in Fayette County. Kentucky, AuLTust 11,1807. Hein^^ the son of a wealthy farmer of that county, he received all the advanta^a-s of a liberal education, v.-hich developed those jjoweiful intellectual faculties that rendered his name, in after life, conspicuous in the history of the country. His father was William Atchison, the son of a farmer of Lancaster Count)-. Pennsylvania, and who moved, with his parents, when six >-ears old. to that L,^arden spot of the west, which now constitutes the rich and majTnificently improved County of Fayette, in the State of Kentucky. His mother's maiden name was Catherine Allen. She was a native of the State of Georgia, and a lady of rare natural and acquired endowments. General Atchison was the eldest of six children, four sons and two daughters. His brothers were, B. A. Atchison, generally known as Allen Atchison, who died in 1857, leaving one child, John C, who, with Marv. a daughter of William Atchison, resides with the General ; Alexander Atchison, who died insane, since the war ; and William Atchis(jn, tVio f-fi^^r- r.f T^^ T p Atc^^i-ori, at one time a well known ph>-sician of St. Joseph. One sister, Mary, was married to Madison Allen, a farmer of Buchanan County. Miss Rebecca Atchison, another sister of the General, died at her residence in Clinton County, in August, 1874. The brothers were all large farmers, and recognized as men of more than ordinary natural and acquired endowments of mind. Largely blessed with the gift? of fortune, intellectual worth seems to have been no less the heritage of this distinguished family. Blessed with ample means and a proper appreciation of the advantages of mental culture, the parents of the subject of this sketch spared no efforts in developing those dawning powers of mind which were, in after life, to render his name prominent in the history of the government. In 1825. he was graduated, with high honor, in Transylvania University, then the leading institution of learning in the state, and since incorporated in the new University of Kentucky. Upon receiving his degree in the arts, Mr. Atchison, with characteristic energy immediately applied himself to the study of law. Among his preceptors in this faculty were the eminent Judge Bledsoe, Charles Humphrey and William T. Barry, afterward Postmaster General of the United States, during the administration of Van Buren. In 1829 Mr. Atchison was admitted to the practice of law in his native state. Notwithstanding the most flattering encouragement and persuasion to remain from those who knew and appreciated his talents, he determined to try his fortune in the West, and a few months after, in 1S30, removed to the comparativelv wild district of Clay County, Missouri. In April of that year he received, in St. Louis, his license to practice in the Supreme Court of the state, and immediately settled in the village of Liberty.

now the iin[)ort:iiit scat of Cla>- Count)-. The 'only lawyer settled in that place at the tinn- of his arrival was Jud-e William T. Wood, now a resident of LcxinL^^ton. and a man hi;^hly respected for his personal and professional worth. About this period Mr. Atchison was appointed Major Genera! of the Northern Di\-ision of Missouri State Militia. General AtchisL)n soon commanded a lucrative practice in his new home, where he continued to reside, in the discharge of the duties of his pro- . fession, until Februar)-, 1S41, when his superior legal attainments, which were known and reci>;::;^nized throughout the state, won for him the apjiointment by Go\-ernor Thomas l\e\-nolds of Jud^^e of the Circuit Court of riatte County on its ori^anization in February of that \'ear. when he moved his residence to Platte Cit\-. It api)ears that in that day judci^es were appointed to this position by the Governor, with the adx'ice and consent of the senate. The office was not made elective till several years after. General Atchison, though endowed with an inflexible will and luu-ielding firmness of character, was ever a man of unassuming bearing, large bene\'olence and convivial and social habits. These, together with his recognized professional ability, rend.:^! i-'-i-;!'- t-,o^m1t«- ^vlth. all clashes among the earl\- settiers of that region, and in August, 1834, as again in 1838, he was elected to the state legislature from Clay County. Upon the death of Dr. Linn, United States Senator, in the autumn of that year. Judge Atchison was appointed by Governor Reynolds to the vacanc}- thus occasioned in the Senate. It was by many considered that this appointment was merited, and had been recommended b\' Colonel Benton, and other authorities of the Democratic party ; by others, it was said, that the Governor, himself, was ambitious of the senatorship. and had selected Judge Atchison as a person who could be easily beaten at the next election. The death of Governor Reynolds, however, occurred before the meeting of the next Legislature, and Judge Atchison was elected with but slight opposition. He was re-elected for two full terms, in succession, the last of which expired March 4, 1855, during the administration of Franklin Pierce. Two )-ears after this he moved his residence from Platte to his present home in Clinton County. He was elected President of the Senate, to succeed Judge Mangum, a Whig Senator from North Carolina, who is mentioned bv Judge Atchison as a man of considerable ability and uncompromising integrity. Two or three years after. Judge Atchison was again elected to that distinguished position, which he continued to hold for some time, till he v.-as relieved, during a temporary absence on priv'ate business, by Jesse D. Bright, wdiose election to fill the \-acancy was the result of a suggestion to that efiect from his distinguished predecess»)r. The fourth of March, 1849, occurring on Sunda\-, General Z. Taylor was not inaugurated till the following Monda\-, Judge .\tchison thus, as presiding officer of the Senate, became virtually ricsidciit of the rniicci States duriii;^^ thi: term o( twenty-four hcturs. In referrinj^f to this accidental (li;_Miit\', on bein^' intcrro^^ated a.s to how he enjo)Cil his exalted position, the \ rnerable senator f^ood-humorcdly replied that he cotdtl tell but little about it, as o\erconie with fatiL;ue, consequent on se\(.ral consecuti\'e days and ni^ht-v of official labor, lie slcjjt through nearly his whole term of service. To g^o back, however, in our history: When Da\id R. Atcliison entered the senate, he acted cordially with Colonel Benton, and, as late as 1848, claimed that he was the first to frame- an act or^yani/int; the Territorx' of Orei;on, with a clause prohibiting; sla\'ery The next \'ear he attached himself to the party of Mr. Calhoun, ami, elected president />ro tciii of the senate, was received into fa\or and roused into prominence by his new party, and became the antagonist of Colonel ]3enton in his own state. The union of a few Democrats, under the lead of Mr. Atchison, with the Whigs, defeated Colonel Benton, in 1850. The former became especially pri:)minent in the legislation for the organization of the territories of Kansas and Nebraska. The first bill, which was introduced into congress, to this eiid, was in the winter of 185 1-2, and had no reference to the subject of slavery. This bill Mr. Atchison advocated by a speech in the senate, but, subsequently, on his return to Missouri, he became an opponent of the bill, and declared, in a public speech, that he would never vote for the measure unless the Missouri Compromise was repealed. The public sentiment at that time was such that his declaration was dienounced b\- the papers of his own party ; but, withi'i a month from the opening of the next congress, Mr. Douglas, from the Committee on Territories, reported a bill to organize these territories, containing a clause which, by strong implication, repealed the Missouri Compromi>e. although the report accompan\-ing the bill expressly deprecated ain' such intent. This clause was assailed by Messrs. Chase and Sumner, and by others, in a printed circular, which led to vehement and pergonal debate. There was finally substituted another clause, drawn up by .\rchibald Dixon, senator trom Kentuck)-. which repealed the Missouri Compromise, outright, and, in this shape, the bill passed. Gen. Atchison subsequently affirmed, in a speech made in the Territory of Kansas, that the clause repealing the Missouri Compromise originated with him, and that he had proposed it to Mr. Douglas, who, at first, declined to insert it in his bill, but, after a period of hesitation, consented to do so. This account tallies with public facts, and though it was published in the newspapers, was not denied by Mr. Douglas. On his retirement from the Senate, of which he was an honored member for the space of over twelve years, during the greater portion of which time he was its presiding officer, he continued to take a lively interest in the politics of the country, and was regarded as a leader and cliief adviser .)t the pro-slaver\- part>- in Kansas, during the troubles which preceded the adniis-ion of that state. In 1.S36, we find him in command of 1,150 men, at a point called Santa I-'e. On the 29th of August, of the same xxar, a detachment from General Atchison's army attackeil Osawatomic, which was defended by about 50 men, who made a vigorous resistance, hut weie defeated with the loss of fi\e wounded and seven prisoner?. l'i\e of the .issailants were killed, and thirty buildings were burned. The next day, a body of h'ree State men marched from Lawrence to attack Atchison's arm\'. On their approach the latter retired, and withdrew his forces into Missouri. The admission of Kansas as a free state, soon after, put an ciul to this much x'exed que->ti<jii. and restored tranquility to the country. General Atchison then lived in retirement, (")n his magjnificent estate, in C'linton Count}-, till the breaking out of the civil war, when he left for the South, and was jjresent at the battle of I^exington. Goxernor Jackson sent him a commission as brigadier general at the commencement of the war. I'his General Atchison declined accepting, as his residence was in Clinton County, outside of the limits of the division. He, however, remained with the arm}-, and assisted at its organization. Rejoined temporaril}-. for the pur- of rmi.-i'nrr , , t-v fht- r r^n1 p^ p }'. Fpli. Kclle\-"s artillcr}' Command, from St. Joseph, and remained with the arm}- till after the battle of Elkhorn. At the close of the war General Atchison returned to his home in Clinton Count}-, where he has since continued to reside in almost unbroken retirement. He was never married. His residence, a loft}- and spacious brick mansion in the midst of a magnificent farm of i.ooo acres, about seven miles west of Plattsburg and about a mile and a half from Gowcr, was accidentally destro}-ed b}- fire on the 2d of Februar}-, 1870. Th.e onh' persons in the house at the time were the general, a sister-inlaw, and a little girl, a niece, who were resident with him, and a negro servant. The farm hands were all' at work at some distance from the house. The neighbors attracted by the flames soon assembled in considerable number, but without the means of reaching the loft}- roof, and too late to render an}- effecti\-e assistance. The entire building was consumed, with most of the contents. The general, in speaking of the loss, seemed less to regret the destruction of the spacious and elegant mansion than the burning of his extensive library and valuable records of his opinions and obser\-ations during the long period of his service in the Senate of the United States, in which he predicted -the civil war, etc. The interest which a work of that character emanating from the pen of such a man would have been read by people of all parties, can readih- be imagined. General Atchison, since the fire in which his mansion was destro}-ed. erected on its site an elegaiit frame cottage, but of much smaller area than the old building, shattered columns and other stone debris of which still appear on the ground to speak of the loft}- edifice of which the}- once formed part. Since ihe chjse of tiie civil war General Athison lias lived a life of secluson on liis farm, from which he has ne\'er suffered himself to be drawn but once, and that on the memorable occasicm -of the Old Settlers' meeting; at the St. Joseph Exposition in Sejjtember, 1874. Mere at lea^t one hundred of the old ^aay 'haired sires and mothers who were amoni; the earl}- settlers of the Platte Purchase and nei^^hborinc^ country were t;athered in front of the yrand stand. .At half past twelve o'clock, the meetin^^f- was called to order by James N. Hurnes, who spoke as follows: "Ladies and c^entlemen : Vou will not exi)ect of me an extended speech. I am too full to express what I feel. Vou will allow me to nominate for chairman of this meeting, Hon. David R. Atchison. His name is the balance of my speech." General Atchison then, took the floor, and thanked the audience for the honor conferred upon him. He had once presided o\er the United States Senate, but this was a prouder position than he ever before occupied. He referred in feeling terms to the early settlers of the Platte Purchase, their trials and hardships, and their courage and endurance under difficulties. On this occasion, General A. W. Doniphan spoke. Senator Bogy, of St. Louis, Judge Vories, and Judge Birch, of Clinton County, made eloquent -and comparatively long speeches, which were listened to with marked attention; but none were more affecting than the brief and pointed remarks of the venerable of the United States Senate. As a private citizen, no man was ever more highly esteemed, by all who knew him, than David R. Atchison. The deserving in misfortune was never known to go unrelieved by his generous hand, and the princely hospitality, with which he entertained those who were honored by his friendship, will long be remembered by his cotemporaries and associates of other da)-s, b\- whom he was ever recognized as one who reflected credited on the exalted positions which he occupied in the service of his country, (positions, it must be observed, which were unsolicited and unexpectedly thrust upon him;, a true type of that nobility of nature, which no heraldic blazonry can enhance, and which no hereditary rank or possessions can purchase.

^tate senator, is a native of Nelson County,- KentuC!ky, and was born August 10. 1 8 19. Piis father, James Bland, was an agriculturist. His mother's maden name was Mar\- W'yatt. of Crab Orchard, Kentuck>-. In 1825, the father of the subject of this narrati\e. with his family, removed to Missouri, locating in Warren Count}-, on a farm. Here W. W . spent his early da\-s, and received his education. After becoming ot a suitable age, he commenced the study of medicine, under the tutorship of

Dr. ICIijah McClain, a |)r<^niinent physician of nekton, Warren County. appl)-inj; himself tliliL^entl)- to its consideration two years, after which he continued his studies at the Medical University Tknown as tlie McDowell Collecxej in St. Loin's. FVom this institution he was graduated. In later \ears. he attendev-i medical lectures in St. Louis. After his L^raduatioii. he commenced to practice his profession in Warren County, Missouri, continuing one year, when in 1S46, he moved to ]\Laryville, Xoda-vay County, remaining three years. Physicians at that day were few in number in Northwestern Missouri, and Dr. Bland's practice was large, but his patients were scattered. His usual mode of traveling was on horse back, and his rides extended to the Iowa line, and an equal distance either way from Maryville. In the spring of 1850, California attracted his attention, and, for three \-ears, he was engaged in merchandising and mining in that country. After returning, he located temporarily for a time in Clay County, and subsequently came to Clinton, ]>urchasing the farm where he now resides, which is located on section 13. He was one of the first physicians in this part of the county, and his practice has been an extended and successful one. Although continuously prosecuting his profession, while at home, he has found ample time to devote a great amount of exertion to the cultivation of his farm, which embraces 600 acres. In stock raising, which he makes a specialty, he has in his herds graded cattle that will compare with any in the county. As a citizen, Dr. Bland is quiet and unostentatious, cordially indorsing and supporting an\- measure of real public benefit. Although past the meridian of life, he is a well preserved man. His career has been an active and successful one. He is a great reader, a brilliant conversationalist, and in the domestic circle, and public walks of life, is one of the most companionable of men. In the autumn of 18S0, Dr. Bland was the candidate for state senator, from the district embracing the counties of Clay, Platte and Clinton, and received the unanimous support of the people. He was married in 1854, to Miss Annie E. Payne, of Clinton County. Their family consists of seven children : Mary B., Serena E. (wife of J. C. Atchison), James A., Henry F., Luella, Annie Lee and Louis L.

James L. Bradshaw

farmer and stock raiser, section 34, post office Gower. A well known, as^ well as an early settler of Northwestern Missouri, was Mr. Charles- Bradshaw, who was a native of Virginia, and came to Platte Count\\ locating near Weston, in 1839. He was a millwright by trade, but followed farming, principally, and eventually became a resident of Andrew County, where his death occurred, in 1S47. His son. James L. Bradshaw^ was born in Mercer Count)-, Kentucky, October i, 1837, and came to Missouri with his father, residing in Platte and Andrew Counties for some time. After the death of the fatlier, the mother of the subject of this sketch located in St. Joseph, and there J. L. learnetl the bhicksmitli trade, and was conductini,^ a shop on Messanie street, when the war broke out. He was arnonL; the first to espouse the Union cause, and enHsted, as a private, in tlie TweiitN'-fifth Missouri, under Colonel Peabody. Later, the Twent\--fifth was attached to Co-lonel Fladd's engineer corps, and was under tlie command of General John A. Logan. Mr. B, was soon piomoted to sergeant, and then to lieutenant. He participated at the engagements of Corinth, Shiloh, Raleigh, Chattanooga, and other notable battle-^^, being honorably discharged July 25, 1S65. at Louisville. Kentuck)-. Returning to St. Joseph, he soon after opened a blacksmith shop at Matney's Miils, in Buchanan Count}', which he conducted for several years, and, subsequently, engaged in blacksmithing at Plattsburg. He has attained a wide and well merited reputation as a horse skoer, and has few equals in this important branch. In 1S7G, he commenced farming where he now resides, and is the owner of eighty acresof fine land. Mr. B. is a gentleman well posted on tne topics of the day, and, in a large degree, commands the respect of his fellow citizens. He has been twice married. First, in 1858, to Miss Mary Bradshaw. Her death occurred eighfor nine months later. In i867,!Miss ?vlar}- Jordan became his wife. They have had five children, of whom, Jennie, Maud and Ralph are living, and two are deceased. Amy and Ida. Mr. B. is a member of the Protective Association- section }}, post ot^ce Plattsburg. Prominent among the old settlers i> numbered the subject of this sketch, who, by faithful attention to his calling and strict principles of honest)", has, step by step, worked his way to the elevated position he now occupies. He is a native of Virginia and was born January 29, 1S29. He was there raised in the occupation he now follow-^, and is the present owner of 426 acres of good average land, a large portion of which is under cultix'ation. He has a nice residence on his farm, and his improvements are of the first order'. Mr. C. was married, in iS5i,to Martha J. Morgan. They have, from this union, four children : John \V., Frank, Mary E., and Samuel L. Mr. and Mrs. C. are members of the Baptist Church, and contribute largely toward its support.

Samuel Cox

was born in Knox County, Kentuck}-, March 3, 1S09. His father, Frederick, was a Virginian, and one of the first settlers in Southern Kentucky. The subject of this sketch was reared to manhood and educated in his native state, his early days being spent in farming. In 1S30. he removed to Indiana, and located in l*arke County, where he was encjac;cd in farniin<j[, until i860, when he mo\'ed to Iowa, locating in Ilarri.^on County. There he continued farming until 1873. at which time he became a resident of Ikichanan County, Missouri, taking up his abode in Tremont Township. In 1879. he purchased a pleasant home in Gower, and retired from tjie active field of lcd>or. Mr. Co.v is past the meridian of life, but has been, and is still, an industrious, frugal, and public spirited citizen, alwa)'s found on the side which tends to the adx'ancement of the religious and moral sentiment. He has been twice married. First, in [851, to Miss Sally T'ruitt. The>- had ten children, five of whom are living : William. Louisiana, Elizabeth, Jane and James C; lost five: John. Samuel, ^Martha, }>la.ry M., and one died in infancy. Mrs. Cox departed this life in 1S70. For his second wife, Mr. C. married oMrs. Charit\- Wright. Her maiden name was Stalker. Slie was born in Indiana, and is the daughter of George Stalker, a native of North Carolina. She had been twice married : first, to John B. Van- Clea\'e, who died in 1852, leaving two children, Mary Elizabeth and John B. In 1S57, James Wright became her husband. He died in 1869. Mr. and Mrs. Cox are diligent and prominent workers in the Baptist Church.

Romulus E. Culver

now deceased, was early identified with the public interests of Northwest Missouri, and was a man whose name was a household word in the pioneer days of Clinton County. He was a native of Maryland, and was born in [Montgomery Count}-, in 18 10. He afterwards moved to Kentucky, where he was married to Mary A. Lawson, a nati\e of \'irginia, born in 1S12. In the autumn of 1840, Mr. C. came to Clinton Count}" and bought 300 acres of land. The following spring, he took up his abcvde in this count}-, having built a log cabin, and commenced the arduous task of opening a farm. His industry was rewarded, and in a few years he w-as regarded as one of the leading farmers in the county. In 1845, he was elected county judge, and, in the spring of 1846. he tendered his ser\ices to suppress the Mexican War, and, in the capacity of assistant quartermaster, served until the spring of 1847. w^hen, with six others, he started for home. The}- stopped at a tow n called Moro, New Mexico, and, while at dinner, were captured, taken out and shot. The sympath}- manifested b}- the officers of his regiment, in their letter of condolence to Mrs. Culver, was evidence of his bravery as a soldier. The Clinton County Court passed suitable resolutions in memorial of their departed associate, which displa}-ed the fact, that, in his official capacity, he had been recognized as a substantial .advocate of justice, and a man of excellent judgment. Judge Culver, political!} . was a Henry Cla}- Whig. He was a Master Mason.

William L. Cuia'Lr

farmer anil stock raiser, section 27, post office Grax'scjn, is a son of Romulus K. Culver, and was born in Greenup Count)-, Keiituck}-, Xo\(.'mber 6,

1835. He came to Clinton Count}- with his parents when j'oung, and after his father's death, in 1S47, he returned to Kentucky, where he attended school for a time at Lexington ; also St. Joseph, Missouri. He has long been recognized as one of the leading stock raisers and feeders in Clinton Count}-, and his landed estate now consists of 1,229 acres, 749 of which comprise the honie farm. His residence is attractivel}- situated, and indicates comfort. ]Mr. Cul\-er is a gentleman of broad and liberal views, and is known as one who endorses ever}- enterprise for tlie advancement of the county and state. He was married in 1862, to ?^Iiss Virginia McMichael, daughter of the veteran citizen, Thomas McMichael. They have fi\e children : Romulus' E., Thomas McMichael, Charles Morgan. Paul Middleton and Josephine Augusta. Himself and family are members of the M. E. Church, South. I\Irs. ]\Iar}- A. Culver, mother of the subject of this sketch, an estimable lady, who;?e graces of mind and heart have endeared her to a large circle of acquaintances, li\-es with is one of the most sterling and live business men of Gower, and oiie who is widely know-n throughout the adjoining countr}-. He is a nati\-e of North Carolina, and was born in Guilford County, March 31, 1839. His father, John, was an agriculturist, and, in iS-^4, came to Missouri w-ith his family, locating in the southern part of Ra}- Count}-. N. G. eventually became a resident of Clay County, and for a time w-as engaged in merchandising at Clayville, and afterwards at Greenville, being closeh' identified with the prominent business men of that count}- for a number -of years. When Gower was founded he was among its first business men, engaging in mercantile pursuits ; afterwards he turned his attention to butchering and the stock trade, in connection with other lines. Li 1S69, he married Miss Amanda Williams, of Cla}- Count}-. The}- ha\-e a family of six children b}- this union: Albert C, Annie V., Claudie E., Charles E., Robert C. and an infant. He is a Master Mason and a charter member of Gow-er Lodge, No. 397.

M. V. Elliott

farmer and stock raiser, section 22. post office Gower. A prominent man among the earl}- settlers of Clinton and Ruchanan Counties w-as Mr. John Elliott. He was a native of Kentuck}-, and came to the Platte Purchase when it was first opened. He was recognized as a sterling, go-ahead citizen until tlic time of his demise, which occurred in I""ebruar\-, 184''), His son. M. \'. Elliott, was born in Clinton Coinit}-, Mi'^souri, Dccemhcr 7. 1S39. Here he has been raised and educated, since makinc,^ it his home, with the exception of several \-ears spent in the far northwest in the government cmplo\-. His estate consists of 160 acres of clioice land, >^eventy-four acres of which are in Atchison Township, Clinton Count)-, and eighty-six acres in Platte Township, Buchanan Coimty. His residence is one-half in Clinton and one-half in Buchanan. Mr. Iv is a thorough agriculturist, combining the practical with the theoretical, and is a gentleman of good con\-ersational powers. His mother, an estimable lady, and one of the pioneers of Clinton and Buchanan Counties, resides with him ; she has been three times married ; her husbands are all deceased; her first husband, Mr. B. Car\' ; the second John Elliott, whom she married, in 1832, and who died in 1846; her thini husband was James Feget, who died in 1879. The subject of this sketch was married, in 1856, to Miss Alice Knight, of Clay County, Missouri. The}- have had six children : Wallula, Bertie, Annie and Thersa, twins, and Pearl Irene ; lost one, Titus Pollen. Himself and fpiriilv are member'^ of the Cbri-^tian Church.

Rev. George W. Everett

is a native of Clinton County, and was born near Stewartsville, November 24, 1838. His father, Mathew, was a native of Virginia, and he became a resident of the Territory of Missouri in 1S18. Pie came to Clinton County in 183S, being among the pioneers, and was here identified with the development of the county, and its general progress for some years. George \V. was raised in Clinton County, following the pursuits of farming. His educational advantages were exceedingl)' limited, but by perseverance, improving all his leisure moments, and being an apt student, he secured a fair share of the world's knowledge. In later years he attended the Pleasant Ridge Seminary, in Platte County. At the breaking out of the war, Mr. Everett tendered his services to the Confederate cause, enlisting in Shelby's Brigade. On account of infirmity, he was unsuited for the infantry, was discharged, and re-enlisted in the cavalry, remaining until the close of the war. After this, he was one year in Te.xas, and then returned to Clinton Count}-, in 1866, engaging in agricultural pursuits. In 1S74, he was ordained minister. Mr. P^verett is well disciplined in expounding the scriptures, is an ardent worker, and a convincing speaker. He was married in 1S6S. to Miss Marietta Busey. By this union they have six children : Thomas, Maurie.. Clarence, Pllt«Mi. Jimmie Lyle and Mar}- Rebecca.

farmer and stocT-c raiser, section 22, post (office Gower. There are but few people in Clinton and adjoining counties who have not heard of Uncle Jimniie, as he is asually called, he, who, in the pioneer days of this country, felled the gjant oak and. assisted in erecting the frontier cabin, and in the bee hunt was found among the foremost, and by whose hand man}- an aijile buck has been slain. Now well advanced in }-ears and past the meridian of life, he is still hale, and bids fair for years to come, to recount his numerous exploits of those halc\"on days. He was born in Kentuck}', September 3, 1810. His father, with his family, emigrated to Missouri at an early da\-, locating first in .^Montgomerj' County, and then in Cla}' County. William Groom, his brother, came to Clinton County in 1829, and the subject of this sketch accompanied him. and helped to erect his house, becoming a permanent resident in 1833. He took an active part as an early farm improver, and from that time to the present, has been one of Clinton County's most progressive citizens. He was at the first precinct election in 1S33, and helped to carry the polls to Liberty. He was married in 1S36. to Miss Rebecca Adams, i hey nave had seventeen children, fourteen of whom are now (188 1) living: Ann, Sarah, Archibald. Gabriel, Elizabeth, Larinda, Nancy, Catherine, Rebecca, Littleton. Elijah, Deborah, ]\Iary, Rhoda. Three are deceased : Jacob, James and an infant.

well known in Northwestern Missouri, is a native of Kentucky, and was born in Henry Count)-, December 20, 18 16. His father, John I. Hall. \\as a blacksmith, and Thomas adopted and learned that trade, when fifteen years of age. L'pon attaining his majority, he opened a shop at Pleasnreville, which he operated a number of \-ears. Li 1S59, ^'^^ came to -Missouri, locating in Tremont Township. Buchanan Count}-, where he engaged in farming, continuing until 1S74. when he removed to Gower, and opened a blacksmith shop. Not man}- men are more widely acquainted or more popularly known in the adjacent county than Mr. Hall. He was married, in 1838, to Miss Edna F. Fallis, of Kentuck}'. They have had seven children, four of whom are living : John W., David S., George T. and Erasmus C. ; lost three : William Henr}-, Josephene E. and Tillman.

John W. Hall

merchant. This v.-ell known and popular citizen is a native of Kentuck}-, and ^\-as born in Henr}- County, August 2, 1839. He came to Missouri -when seventeen \-ears of age, locating in Buchanan Count\- witli hi..s parents. When the rebellion broke out he entered the Confederate -service, and served six months under General Atchison, after which hr went to Montana, locatin^^ in Virc^inia City, where he resided several years. He was a policeman in that city for one year, and deputy marshal two years. In 1867, returning to Buchanan County, Missouri, he engaged in farming until i8;S, when he embarked in merchandising in Gower. Mr. II. is an outspoken, frank citi/.en, with liberal views, and as a business man stands among the foremost. In 1868, Miss Fdiza Weakley, of Clinton County, Missouri, became his v/ifc. Ry this union they have six children: Georgia l^elle, Elizabeth, Nellie, Lucy, Willard and Virgil. Lost one - Erasmus. Mr. Hall is a Master Mason and a member of Gower Lodge.

David S. Hall

dealer in hardware and agricultural implements, and insurance, land, claim and collecting agent, was born in Pleasureville, Kentucky, October 15, 1843, and came to Buchanan County. ^Missouri, with his parents in [857. He was there raised to manhood, receiving the benefits of a common school and a commercial education in St. Joseph. He commenced his mercantile career at Union Mills, Platte County, and afterwards engaged in trade in Plattsburg. where he continued four years; thence moved to Gower, and has since been one of the representative men of the town. For two years he was deputy sheriff of Clinton County, and filled the position faithfully. He was married in 1868 to Miss Emma L. Asbur}-. of Plattsburg. They have three children : Annie A., Birda and George R. A. Mr. Hall is a Master Mason and a member of Gower Lodge.

George T. Hall

merchant and postmaster, Gower, as a citizen and energetic business man, is known over a vast area of country. He is the son of Mr. Thomas Hall, the well known vulcan, and was born in Pleasureville, Kentucky, December 22, 1850. Moving to Missouri with his parents when young, he was principally raised in Buchanan County. In 1870 he embarked in merchandising, and has been postmaster since 1874. He was married in 18S1 to Miss Inez Shields, an estimable lady of Warrensburg, Johnson County, Missouri. Mr. Hall is a Master Mason.

William Hammett

druggist, stationer and assistant postmaster, Gower, is a native of Pennsylvania, and was born in Franklin County, April 4, 1843. His father, D. F. Hammett, was well known in the commercial circles of that country. and died when William was r^uite young. At an early age the latter migrated to Mar\-laiul. where he was raised and educated, enteriiiL: tlie naval academy, at Annapolis, as a cadet, in 1859 ; also, for a time, he was at Newport, the academy having been removed to that point. In 1863, he was called into active service, and, in the capacity of ensign, was in the Missis-^ippi Squadron until the close of the rebellion, when he was honorably discharged. In 18^)6, the west attracted his attention, and he came to :\Iissouri, locating in St. Joseph, where he entered the employ of Turner. Frazer & Co., and. for a time, was their representative on the road, being one of the first traveling salesmen out of St. Joseph. He continued in their employ for four >-ears, after which he embarked in merchandising at Frazer, Buchanan County, remaining three years. He next went to Texas, and lived temporarily in different parts, and, afterwards, for four years, was in the employ of C. D. Smith & Co., St. Joseph. In the autumn of iSSp. he established himself in trade in Gower. He has been assistant postmaster since that time. He is an efficient druggist, and has built up a trade that will compare favorably with any in the county. Socially, ^Ir. Hammett is one of the most genial and companionable of men. He is a Master :\Iason, and a member of Gower Lodf^e.

of the firm of Poe & Jamison, dealers in general merchandise, Gower. This popular young gentleman is a native ofBuchanan County, Missouri, and was born August 6, 1S53, his father, Allen, being one of the early settlers of the county. J. T. was raised on the farm, .receiving the bonefits of the common schools. After attaining his majority, for two years he was an attendant of the State Normal School at Kirksville. the latter portion of the time being employed as a teacher. For several years he pursued the vocation of teaching in Buchanan and Clinton Counties, and engaged in his present business in the spring of iSSi.

fiirmer and stock raiser, section 3[, post office Gower, is a native of Virginia, and was born in Fluvanna County, December 5, 1805. His father, William, was a farmer, and an old resident of that state. The subject of this sketch, when 26 years of age, migrated to Kentucky, where he resided until 1854, when he came to Platte County, Missouri, and after a residence there of eighteen months, came to Clinton County, locating where he now resides. He first bought 200 acres of land, and has been adding to it from time to time, until his present estate embraces 300 acres of choice land, on which is situated a comfortable residence. Mr. ]. has been a man of untiring industry, and few citizens ot Chnton County are more respected for sterling merit. He has been twice mar- ried ; first, in 1829. to Miss i\Iar\- L. Kent, of \'irL;inia. She died in Kentuckv, March ui. 1855. Miss ^Marj^aret W. Brunile)-, of Kentucky, afterwards became his wife. Mer father, Daniel, was a native of Virginia, and moNcd to Kentucky when sixteen \-ears of ag-e.

farmer and stock raiser, section 31, post office Gower, an enterprising young agriculturist, is a son of Mr. J. D. Johnson, and was born in 184S, in Shelby County, Kentucky, between Frankfort and Shelbyville. He came to I'latte Count}' with his father in 1S54, and to Clinton County in 1856, where he has been raised and educated, and where he has since resided, spending his boyhood days in tilling the soil of his county. Mr. J. in farmiiig and stock raising combines the real witli the theoretical. Being thoroughl)- schooled as an agriculturist, he promises in the near future to be numbered with the substantial farmers of the county. In 1877, Miss Mary Wright, an estimable j'oung lady, became his wife.