Cooper County, Missouri - Biographical sketches, 1919 (part 17 of 24)

The junior John Sweeney was reared on the home farm, receiving his schooling at Clifton. From the days of his boyhood, he was required to give his attention to the farm, and as the eldest son, grew to be his father's "right hand man" in the operation of the place. After his marriage in 1881, he continued to make his home on the home place, of which, after his father's death, he inherited 80 acres. He has since bought an adjoining 40 acres and now has a farm of 120 acres, which he has improved in excellent fashion and on which he is engaged profitably in general farming and stock raising, being accounted one of the substantial farmers of that community.

In 1881, John Sweeney was united in marriage to Emma Templemire, who was born in Lebanon township, daughter of Fred Templemire and wife, natives of Germany who had become residents of this county upon coming to the United States, and to this union five children were born, namely: John R., Sedalia; Edward, deceased; Charles and Nellie, at home, and one who died in infancy. Mrs. Emma Sweeney, mother of these children, died in 1895, at the age of 40 years, and her daughter Nellie is mistress of the household. Charles Sweeney, who also still remains at home, has long been assisting his father in the direction of the farm and has helped to develop there a good piece of property. The Sweeneys are members of the Catholic Church. Mr. Sweeney and his son are republicans.

George C. Jones, one of the extensive landowners of Cooper County is a son of the pioneer Caleb Jones who at the time of his death in 1883 was said to be the wealthiest man in Cooper County.

Caleb Jones was born in Baltimore, Md., March 11, 1805, a son of Capt. Joshua Jones, who during the time of the War of 1812 when Baltimore was bombarded by the British (the night of stress which inspired Francis Scott Key to write his immortal "Star Spangled Banner") helped in the defense of the city. About 1815 Capt. Joshua Jones moved with his family from Baltimore to Kentucky, the boy Caleb then being about ten years of age, and it was in that state that the latter grew to manhood, his education being received in the schools of Cynthiana, Ky. When he was 21 years of age, in 1826, Caleb Jones came here horseback, swimming his horse across the Missouri River at Franklin. With such meager resources as he could command, Caleb Jones put his credit to the test and was able to secure a small stock of merchandise with which he opened a store at the landing at Arrow Rock. This venture was the beginning of the successful career. From the very beginning his affairs prospered, his mercantile venture presently was expanded to include banking and he thus became one of the pioneer bankers of this section of Missouri, his operations necessitating the removal of his base of operations from Arrow Rock to Boonville. He invested largely in real estate and was at one time the owner of about 6,000 acres of land in this county, the greater part of his holdings lying in Blackwater township. He also gave much attention to the live stock business and in all his ventures, whether as merchant, banker or stockman and farmer, he prospered, so that it probably is nothing amiss to say, that at the time of his death he was Cooper County's wealthiest citizen. Nov. 10, 1831, Caleb Jones married Nancy Chapman, who was born in April, 1814, in Howard County. She died about ten years before he did, his death occurring May 15, 1883.

George C. Jones, son of Caleb and Nancy (Chapman) Jones, was born in Polk County Dec. 12, 1844, and grew up in this county, from the days of his boyhood his interests being more directly connected with his father's farming operations and he continued a farmer all his life, coming in time to be a large landowner. During the Civil War he went to Canada, but returned to Cooper County in 1865, and resumed farming with his father, later branching out for himself, and became successful, at one time owning as much as 1,400 acres of land in this county, mostly in Blackwater township. On March 5, 1868, George C. Jones was married to Ann E. Trent, who was born on March 16, 1844, in Cumberland County, Va., member of an old- Colonial family of English ancestry, the family name being derived from the ancient seat of the family on the banks of the river Trent. To that union were born six children, namely: Caleb C, a stockman and auctioneer of Pilot Grove: Addie Muir, married George H. Mo- Elroy and is now deceased ; Dr. George C. Jones, a dentist at Pilot Grov1 : Maria, wife of M. L. Jones, Blackwater township; Nancy Trent, wife of Archibald McGuire. Blackwater township and Woodson Trent Jones, Blackwater township. The mother of these children died Jan. 18, 1909. Of late years George C. Jones has disposed of some of his land interests, but still retains a life interest in 1,000 acres in Blackwater township which he has divided among his children, preferring to make disposition of his estate while he is living.

William Manger and Julius Manger, now of New York City, owners of several hotels in the large cities of the country, are natives of Boonville. They are the sons of Casper Manger and Wilhelmina (Bell) Manger, who were early citizens of Boonville.

William and Julius Manger left Boonville about 30 years ago. William attended Valparaiso University and Julius graduated from Tulane University and was admitted to the bar. They founded the International Coffee Company and were importers and jobbers of coffee and spices. They engaged in the real estate business and have built more than a 1,000 buildings and have dealt extensively in real estate. They are proprietors of the Hotel Netherland, Great Northern Hotel, Navarre Hotel, Endicott Hotel, Grand Hotel, and Bell Apartment Hotel, all in New York City; The Plaza Hotel, Chicago; The Continental Hotel, Philadelphia; and are interested in many other large enterprises.

William Manger is a bachelor. Julius Manger married Miss Lillian Weissenger, a noted Kentucky beauty, and daughter of the late Col. Harry Weissenger, of Louisville, one of the most prominent citizens of Kentucky. Mr. and Mrs. Julius Manger have three children.

Dr. Porter E. Williams was born in Versailles, Mo.. March 25, 1867. Dr. Williams' father was also a physician and one of the most prominent in central Missouri, honored, esteemed and respected by all who knew him. He was born in Ohio, and with his father came to Versailles when two years of age. He practiced his profession for about 50 years and died in the spring of 1903, 70 years of age. Dr. Williams' paternal grandfather erected the first building, a blacksmith shop, in Versailles about 1835. Here he manufactured all the plows, axes, horseshoes and nails that were used in that section for a number of years. He died in Versailles when 84 years of age.

The maiden name of Dr. Williams' grandmother on his father's side was Mary McGlothlin. She was born in Ohio and died in Morgan County when 86 years of age. Dr. Williams mother was Miss Alpha Davis, born in Morgan County, Mo. She was the daughter of Porter E. Davis who was born on the old homestead about four miles southeast of Bunceton, now occupied by his grandson, W. E. Davis. Porter E. Davis made the

Phillip Davis, father of Porter E. Davis and great-grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was one of the early settlers of this county, and located the old Davis homestead above referred to. He was a first cousin of Jefferson Davis, the president of the southern Confederacy. The Davis stock originally came from Mississippi.

Dr. Porter E. Williams was married Nov. 20, 1890, to Miss Gussie Stephens, the daughter of John H. Stephens a brother of Joseph L. Stephens and belonged to one of the pioneer families of Cooper County. Dr. Williams has one daughter Adda, the wife of Roy D. Williams a prominent attorney of the Cooper County bar.

Dr. Williams graduated at Beaumont Hospital, now the Washington, in 1887, served one year as interne at the hospital and May 6, 1888, located at Bunceton. Nov. 1, 1905, he was appointed superintendent of State Hospital, No. 1, at Fulton, and remained there until 1909, when he returned to Bunceton to practice his profession. In 1917 he was appointed to the superintendency of the St. Joseph Hospital No. 2, which position he holds at the present time.

Curtis Earle Chrane, superintendent of public schools of Boonville, is a native Missourian. He was born Oct. 29, 1886, on a farm at Musselfork, Chariton County. He is a son of John Earley and Elizabeth (Stith) Chrane, natives of Missouri and Kentucky, respectively.

John Earley Chrane, was born and reared on a farm which was entered from the government in the early twenties. He was a son of Harold Julius Chrane, who emigrated from Denmark with his family in the nineteenth century and settled in Chariton County, Mo. During the Civil War he served in the Confederate army under General Price. John Earley Chrane was reared to maturity in Chariton County and married Elizabeth Stith, a native of Breckenridge County, Ky., who accompanied her parents to Linn County, Mo., in 1870. John E. Chrane is a farmer and stockman and is now residing upon his farm in Chariton County.

Prof. C. E. Chrane was reared on the home farm and attended the district school. He attended the Warrensburg State Normal School and graduated from this institution when 19 years of age. For three years following he was principal of Windsor High School and afterwards served for four years as superintendent of Windsor Public Schools, following which he became Superintendent of Boonville Public Schools, a position which he has held for the past six years. Professor Chrane's work as superintendent of Boonville Public Schools has been such as to place the schools in the front rank of Missouri public school system. He is a graduate of the Missouri State University and has attended summer school sessions at University of Colorado, University of Michigan, and Chicago University.

May 29, 1910, Mr. Chrane was united in marriage with Miss Irmah Griffith, a daughter of Dr. and Mrs. C. E. Griffith, at Windsor, Mo. Dr. Griffith and family now reside at Gallitan, Mo., the birth place of Mrs. Griffith whose maiden name was Harriet Poague. Dr. Griffith's mother was Margaret Drake prior to her marriage and she was a member of one of the pioneer families of Howard County. His father was Dr. Edgar Griffith who at the time of the Civil War was one of the largest land owners and wealthiest men in Cass County. He cast his fortunes with the Confederate cause and was impoverished as a result of the ravages of the war. His family suffered severely from the effects of "Order No. 11". To C. E. and Irmah Chrane has been born two children, Barbara Jeanne, born March 22, 1915; and Jacqueline, born Sept. 26, 1916. The mother of these children was a graduate of the Sedalia College of Music, where she pursued a course in violin and elocution. She is also a graduate of the Chicago Conservatory of Music in the same subjects. Two years prior to her marriage she was engaged in Chautauqua work as a reader and violinist.

Mr. Chrane is a member of the Cooper County Board of Education, receiving his appointment to the position from the State Superintendent of Schools. He was also appointed by the governor of Missouri as a member of the Missouri Library Commission. Mr. and Mrs. Chrane are both members of the Methodist Church, South, as have been all of their ancestors for generations. They are both 'connected with the Order of the Eastern Star and Mr. Chrane is a member of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, the Royal Arch Masons and the Knights of Pythias.

Mr. Chrane's career as an educator has been marked with signal success; he is a man of more than ordinary ability; energetic, progressive. highly - >- :ated be is possessed of a strong and likable personality which has made him popular with all classes of the people.

Public Schools has been an era of progress and advancement which has seen the Boonville Schools take a leading place among the small city schools of Missouri.

Dr. Arthur Wesley Nelson, president of the Bank of Bunceton, chairman of the board of directors of the Boonville National Bank, member of the board of managers of the Missouri State Hospital at St. Joseph, one of the most extensive landowners and cattle breeders in central Missouri and proprietor of "Eastwood", the great stock farm in Kelly and Lebanon townships was born on that farm and has always regarded the place as his home, a continuous resident there since his return in the spring of 1902 from New York City, where he rounded out his medical education. The Doctor was born Jan. 21, 1878, son and only child of Arthur W. and Lolla (Marmaduke) Nelson, both of whom also were born in this section of Missouri and the latter of whom, a member of one of the most distinguished families in Missouri, is still living, now a resident of Kansas City.

The senior Arthur W. Nelson was born on a pioneer farm two miles west of Boonville in 1854, son of James M. and Margaret (Wyan) Nelson, who had established their home there after their marriage in this county. The latter was one of the oldest living natives of Cooper County at time of her death, July 9, 1919, at the age of 98 years, she having been born in this county in 1821, a daughter of real pioneer parents, the Wyans having been among the earliest settlers of Cooper County. James M. Nelson was born in Fauquier County, Va., member of a well-established family there, and was self educated. As a young man he came to Missouri and located in Cooper County, where he married Margaret Wyan and established his home. He was a man of varied activities and was for many years one of the most prominent and influential men in Cooper County. In 1858, in association with W. W. Trigg, he started the first bank that was opened for business in Boonville and thus early became one of the most influential factors in the development of that city and of the region surrounding. He also became a large landowner and the possessor of other interests of a valuable character, the impress of his forceful personality being manifest in many directions throughout the local business world. James M. Nelson died in Aug., 1902, being then at the age of 86 years. His widow died July 9, 1919, she having lived to the great age of 98 years. She was bora at Crab Orchard, Ky. James M. Nelson and wife were the parents of four children, all of whom are living save Arthur W., father of Doctor Nelson and the third in order of birth, the others being Louis Cass Nelson, a retired banker and capitalist, St. Louis; Mrs. Charles E. Leonard, a widow and owner of the notable "Ravenswood" farm in Palestine township, who is now living at Boonville, and Margaret, wife of the Hon. Lon V. Stephens of St. Louis, former governor of the state of Missouri. Arthur W. Nelson was reared at Boonville and was early tx-ained and schooled in a way to fit him for the large responsibilities entailed upon him by reason of his father's estate. After his marriage to Lolla Marmaduke he established his home on the great ranch in Kelly township now owned by his son, the house in which he and his wife set up their establishment there having been a conventional "big house" of the period, erected by slave labor in 1854. On that place he gave particular attention to the breeding of Shorthorn cattle and had developed one of the finest stock farms in this section when in 1880 his activities were untimely brought to an end, his death coming in a runaway accident in that year. His widow later married Robert W. Cary and is now living at Kansas City. She was born in Saline County, a daughter of Col. Vincent Marmaduke, a gallant officer of the Confederate army during the Civil War, who was a son of the Hon. M. M. Marmaduke, one time lieutenant-governor of Missouri, and a brother of former Governor Marmaduke, of this state.

Born on the farm on which he is now living, Dr. Arthur W. Nelson was reared at Kansas City, in the schools of which city he received his schooling preparatory to entrance at Wentworth Military Academy, from which institution he was graduated in 1897. He then entered the University of the South at Sewanee, Tenn., and was graduated from that institution in 1900, with the degrees of M. D., A. B. and Ph. G. Thus equipped for the practice of his profession Doctor Nelson received the appointment to an internship in the Woman's Hospital at New York City and was there until the spring of 1902, when he returned to his old home in this county, foregoing his expectation of actively engaging in the practice of his profession in order to assume the practical management of the great estate he had inherited in Cooper County and has since been thus engaged, having extended in many ways the operations for many years carried on there. In the spring following his return to Cooper County, Doctor Nelson married and established his home on the old home place, where he since has resided. In 1913, at a cost of $40,000 he rebuilt the historical old farm house which had stood as the dwelling place there for nearly 60 years and erected in its stead one of the finest farm houses in Missouri, the same equipped throughout with modern fittings. One of the features of this new house is the great reception hall which with true Southern hospitality the Doctor and his wife ever keep open for the social gatherings of the young people of the neighborhood, the Nelson house thus having long been most pleasantly noted as the center of social activities thereabout. Doctor Nelson is the proprietor of an estate exceeding 2,000 acres in Kelly and Lebanon townships and gives his chief attention to the raising of cattle, hogs and sheep, the operations of the place being under the direction of his ranch manager, J. M. Putman, and the products of the Nelson stock farm are in wide demand among discriminating stockmen throughout this section of the West. Doctor Nelson is widely known in live-stock circles and during the years 1912-15 served as president of the Missouri Live Stock Producers Association, an organization in the affairs of which he has for years taken an active interest and of which he is still a member of the executive committee. In general business affairs the Doctor also has for years taken a proper interest and in 1903 was elected president of the Bunceton Bank at Bunceton, this selection carrying with it the distinction of being the youngest bank president then in the state of Missouri. He also is chairman of the board of directors of the Boonville National Bank. In recognition of his attainments in the field of medical science he was appointed in 1918 a member of the board of managers of the Missouri State Hospital at St. Joseph and is still serving on that important board. In his political views he is a democrat. He is a Mason of high degree, affiliated locally with the blue lodge at Bunceton and is a noble of the Ancient Arabic Order, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, affiliated with the temple at Kansas City, his attainment to the shrine having been through the York Rite of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, this latter affiliation being with the Commandery at Boonville. The Doctor is a member of the Episcopal Church at Kansas City.

March 25, 1903, Dr. Arthur W. Nelson was united in marriage at Boonville with Rilye Stephens, of that city, and to this union two children have been born, Rilye S. and Arthur W., III. Mrs. Nelson was born at Boonville and is a daughter of W. Speed and Virginia (Thompson) Stephens, both of whom also were born in Cooper County, members of old families in this section of Missouri, and who are now living at St. Louis, where W. Speed Stephens is engaged in business as treasurer of a life insurance company.

Thomas Smith Simral!, the vice-president and acting manager of the Cooper County Abstract Company of Boonville, was born Oct. 15, 1886, at Keytesville, Mo. His father was a distinguished Presbyterian Divine and was born in Shelbyville, Ky., in 1849. He was educated at Washington Lee University and at the Louisville Theological Seminary at Louisville, Ky. Having received a finished education at the aforesaid institutions, he came to Missouri when yet a young man and preached first at St. Louis, filling a vacancy in a pulpit there, for a short time. He then located at Hannibal, Mo., having charge of the Presbyterian Church there for several years after which he preached in Keytesville, Mo., and finally located at Sweet Springs, Mo., where he had charge of the Presbyterian Church until his death, Nov. 24, 1899.

Mr. Simrall's mother, now living, is Dollie (Ewing) Simrall who was born in Owensville, Ky., in 1860. She was married to Rev. Thomas Simrall in 1882 at Owensville. Both the Simralls and Ewings are of old Kentucky stock.

The subject of this sketch belongs to the younger class of energetic, pushing business, men of the county and takes deep interest in all public enterprises, having formerly been secretary of the Boonville Commercial Club until his business made it impossible for him to devote the time necessary to the performance of the duties of that office. He was educated in the public schools, graduated at the high school at Sweet Springs and completed his education at the University of Missouri. When he first started in business for himself he was a traveling salesman for a wholesale jewelry company of St. Louis and traveled in Texas.

He came to Boonville in July, 1915, and founded the Cooper County Abstract Company which he caused to be incorporated and is the vicepresident and acting manager of the same. The corporation bought the "Book of Abstracts" known as the Chambers set. On this set of abstracts he spent considerable time, labor and pains verifying the same, making corrections and bringing them up-to-date, so that now the company has a complete and thorough set of books. Mr. Simrall has been remarkably fortunate and successful in the management of this company and by his industry and tireless efforts has built up a flourishing business.

He was married June 14, 1916 to Miss Edna Chalmers Williams the daughter of the late lamented Judge William M. Williams. There was born to that marriage, on March 19, 19J.8, one child, Ann Ewing. Mr. Simrall is a democrat, a Presbyterian and a Free Mason.

B. M. Lester, president of the Boonville National Bank, was born Dec. 10, 1890, in Boonville, Mo. His father, Thomas P. Lester, was bom in Queen's County, Ireland, and came to Boonville in 1869, where he was a large and successful contractor until his death, Oct. 13, 1910. He was

B. M. Lester was educated at the parochial schools of Boonville and took a special commercial course. At the age of 15 he was employed as messenger boy in the old Central National Bank at a salary of $5 per month. His rise in that bank by reason of his industry was rapid, and he soon became head bookkeeper, which position he held until the liquidation of the bank.

On the organization of the Boonville National Bank, which took over the assets of the Central National Bank, he, because of his especial fitness and reliability, was chosen cashier of the new institution, and upon the consolidation of the Boonville National Bank and the Farmer's Bank of Boonville, he was elected vice-president of the consolidated banks, which operated under the name and charter of the Boonville National Bank.

Upon the retirement of E. E. Amick as president of the Boonville National Bank, Mr. Lester was again advanced and elected president of the institution in his stead, and is doubtless the youngest president of so large a financial banking institution, he being now but 28 years of age. He is thoroughly versed in banking, having come up from a messenger boy to his present responsible position. Mr. Lester is affable, courteous and quick to grasp a financial proposition.

Rolla D. Pealer, the present popular county clerk of Cooper County, was bora in this county in 1873, being the youngest of six children. His parents were John C. and Mary (Bittinger) Pealer, formerly of Ohio, who moved to Iowa from Cooper County in 1873 and purchased a farm eight miles northwest of California, where they lived until their demise.

Mr. Pealer was married in 1894 to Miss Myrtle M., daughter of B. D. and Mary (Lawson) Wilson. They have four children, Erma W. ; Vera W. ; Don F. ; and Paul M. Mr. Pealer, until inducted into office, has been engaged in farming and merchandising. He established a store on the home farm in 1901, one mile north of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church and one mile east of the New Zion Cumberland Presbyterian Church. The postoffice was located at his store, which was named Lakota. In the fall of 1908, he disposed of his store and was appointed the probation officer at the Missouri Training School in 1909, which position he held until the change of the State administration. He was appointed deputy county clerk in 1911 by County Clerk J. T. Hayes, which position he held until 1914. In this year he became a candidate for and was elected to the office of county clerk and was re-elected in 1918, which office he now holds, his term expiring in 1922. At the election of 1918 he was elected county clerk by a large majority, being the only democrat elected in the county. During the World War he served as a member of the local Exemption Board for Cooper County.

Mr. Pealer is affable in manner and has a pleasing personality which renders him popular, as is evidenced by the election of 1918. He is a careful, painstaking officer and has endeared many to him by reason of his continued courtesy and kindness in the performance of the duties of his office. Mr. Pealer is a democrat and a member of the Baptist Church, a Free Mason, Knight of Pythias, Odd Fellow, and a Woodman.

Mr. and Mrs. Pealer were educated at Hooper Institute at Clarksburg, Mo. They believe in education and are offering their children the best opportunity available. Erma W., who graduated at Laura Speed Elliott High School in 1918, the following year attended the Monticello Seminary at Godfrey, 111. Vera W. graduated from the above high school in 1919, and Don F. is a sophomore in the same institution and was page in the Senate of the 50th General Assembly. Paul M., the youngest, is attending the grade school of Boonville.

George D. Brownfield, who is now serving as prosecuting attorney of Cooper County, was born March 9, 1879, in Cooper County, Mo. His father, Martin Brownfield, was born in Virginia, Oct. 15, 1835, and came to Pettis County when a small boy and afterwards located in Cooper County, near Pilot Grove, where he was a successful farmer. He died at his home in Cooper County, Dec. 26, 1883. His mother was Adeline (Lewis) Brownfield, who was born Aug. 6, 1836, in the State of Ohio. She came to Boonville with her parents when quite a small girl, and lived in Cooper County practically all of her life. She died in Pilot Grove, March 28, 1914, after having lived a noble and Christian life. Mrs. Brownfield, the mother of the subject of this sketch, was married twice, the first time to John Baker, and there were born to this union three children, Ida, Anna and Katie, all of whom are deceased. Her second marriage was to the father of George Brownfield, and to this union there were born four children, Minnie, Flora, Lewis and George D.

George D. Brownfield attended the public schools at Pilot Grove, the Pilot Grove Academy, and graduated at the high school at Sedalia. He then completed the commercial course at Hill's Business College at Se- dalia, after which he entered the law department at the State University at Columbia, where he graduated in 1909, ranking first in his class. He also won the Rollin's scholarship of $50 in gold, for the highest rank in the junior class of the previous year.

Mr. Brownfield was elected city attorney of Boonville in 1914-1916. He was also elected prosecuting attorney of Cooper County in 1914-1916- 1918, which office he now holds. Mr. Brownfield is a hard worker and a close student. He is a fervent and earnest prosecutor and a forceful and pleasing speaker.

Jesse Thomas Hays was born in Cooper County, Mo., Nov. 23, 1870. His parents, Hon. William G. and Mary E. (Hurley) Hays were natives of Hardin County, Ky. and were there reared and married. In 1864 they came to Missouri, settling on a farm in the river bottoms in Cooper County, eight miles east of Boonville. Subsequently they removed to a farm on a bluff, three miles from Overton, and it was on that place that Jesse Thomas Hays first saw the light of day. In 1892 the parents took up their abode on a farm four miles west of Bunceton which remained the home until the death of William G. Hays, who died at Hot Springs, Ark., in 1905.

William G. Hays was prominent in democratic politics and represented his district in the State Legislature three terms. His counsel was sought in all political matters and his opinion carried weight. He was a member of both the Masonic and Odd 'Fellows lodges and was one of Cooper County's most prosperous, substantial and esteemed citizens.

Jesse Thomas Hays spent his youth upon the home farm, his experiences being those of the average lad in the multifarious duties upon the farm and the obligations of life. He attended the district school and afterwards entered the Hooper Institute at Clarksburg, Mo., where he continued through the school years of 1888-89 and 1889-90. In the fall of the latter year he entered the Missouri University at Columbia, where he spent the succeeding term, after which he returned to his home in Cooper County and engaged in farming in partnership with his father until the latter's death. For two years thereafter he lived in the country handling stock and grain and meeting with substantial success. In Nov., 1906, he was elected to the office of county clerk and at the expiration of his first term in 1910, was re-elected to that office. The duties of this office he performed with painstaking care and fidelity. Mr. Hays ia a member of Cooper Lodge, No. 36 A. F. and A. M. ; of Boonville Chapter, No. 60, R. A. M. ; of Olivette Commandery, No. 53, K. T. ; Centralia Council,

No. 34, R. & S. M. at Centralia, Mo.; of the Boonville Lodge K. P.; and the Modern Woodmen of America. He, like his father before him, takes an active interest in public matters and especially is he active. in democratic politics and as well a student of public questions. Being pleasant and affable, his friends are legion.

E. H. Rcdgers, for many years one of the largest and most prosperous farmers of Cooper County as well as one of the largest breeders of Atwood Merino sheep in central Missouri, is a native of Virginia and was bc>rn in Ohio County, Dec. 6, 1843. His parents, John G. and Margaret Rodgers, were natives of that county and their homestead upon which the subject of this sketch was born, was composed of land entered by the family several generations ago. His grandmother of the fourth generation on the father's side was the first white woman that ever set foot in that county. Mr. Rodger's father was a large and prosperous farmer. In the Civil War, Mr. Rodgers still a youth, espoused the cause of the union and in his 19th year, in August, 1862, he enlisted in Company D, 12th West Virginia Volunteer Infantry and served until the close of the war, witnessing personally the final surrender of Lee at Appomattox in 1865. He was in the Battle of Winchester under General Milroy and numerous other hotly contested engagements. After peace was consummated he farmed for two years in his native county and in 1868 moved to Missouri and located in Pilot Grove township in this county where he lived for twelve years. In 1880 he sold his farm in Pilot Grove township and bought the farm of Judge Bennet C. Clark, in Palestine township, consisting of 970 acres of fertile land in a high state of cultivation and well improved. Besides general farming he made a specialty of breeding and raising the celebrated Atwood stock of Merino sheep. His flock frequently consisted of 2,500 and as high as 4,000 head.

Mr. Rodgers was married in Ohio County, Va., to Miss Mary L., daughter of James Elliott of that county, August 18, 1870. He has but one child, a daughter, Margaret A., the wife of Charles W. Nixon, whose sketch appears in this volume. His wife departed this life in Boonville, in June, 1916, and was buried at Walnut Grove Cemetery at Boonville.

In March of this year Mr. Rodgers sold that portion of his farm that he had not heretofore sold, about 600 acres, to his son-in-law, C. W. Ni vcn cf Boonville For several years, Mr. Rodgers has made his home with Mr. Nixon where he has enjoyed not only the companionship of his daughter and son-in-law, but the close attachment he feels to his grand-children. Mr. Rodgers has large property intei-ests in Virginia, especially in coal lands. He has retired from all public activities and spends a considerable portion of his time traveling in the east. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, a Democrat, and a member of the John A. Hayn Post of the Grand Army of the Republic. Mr. Rodgers is an exemplary citizen and active in any cause he espouses. He was a generous contributor to all war activities in the World War. A thorough American, his heart has beat with a patriotism, in that great cataclysm, unaffected by age.

Nathaniel Nelson Leonard, owner and proprietor of "Ravenswood Farm", which is located four miles northeast of Bunceton in Palestine township, has for years been a prominent factor in Cooper County affairs, as well as his father and grandfather before him. Nathaniel Nelson Leonard was born at Boonville, Mo., Dec. 6, 1876, and was the only child born to his parents, the late Capt. Charles E. Leonard and Nadine (Nelson) Leonard.

Capt. Charles E. Leonard was a native of Cooper County, born on "Ravenswood Farm" march 27, 1839, and died March 8, 1916. He was a son of Nathaniel and Margaret (Hutchinson) Leonard, who settled in Cooper County in 1825 from Vermont. Here Nathaniel Leonard purchased a large tract of land and settled on what has since been known as "Ravenswood Farm", which is one of the notable stock farms in America, from the breeder's standpoint. Nathaniel Leonard engaged in breeding purebred Shorthorn cattle in 1839. At that time he went to Kentucky and purchased a white male Shorthorn, "Comet Star", for $600, and a red female, "Queen" for $500, from George Renick, a well known stock breeder in Kentucky. These animals were the first pure bred Shorthorn cattle west of the Mississippi River, and it is said that the "Ravenswood Farm" is the oldest stock farm in the world devoted to breeding Shorthorn cattle. Nathaniel Leonard successfully carried on farming and stock breeding on the "Ravenswood Farm" during his lifetime, and was succeeded by Capt. Charles E. Leonard, the father of Nathaniel Nelson Leonard, whose name introduces this review.

Capt. Charles E. Leonard was reared to manhood on "Ravenswood Farm", and received his education in the Kemper Military School at Boonville and the Missouri University at Columbia, where he was graduated. After his educational career, he returned to "Ravenswood Farm" and was actively engaged in farming and stock breeding during the balance of his life. He became widely known throughout the country as a successful breeder of Shorthorn cattle, and was one of the best known men in

America as an advocate of the merits of that breed of cattle. His efforts were not limited merely to the commercial side of Shorthorn breeding, but as a member of the American Shorthorn Breeders Association, he was one of the leading factors in the financing of the American Herd Book, the rights to which were later purchased by the American Shorthorn Breeders Association in 1883. Captain Leonard was an active member of this association for a number of years, serving as a director from 1882 to 1906, when, at his own request, he was relieved from further activity on that board. From 1889 until 1902 he was president of that organization, and for many years was a conspicuous figure at Royal and International stock shows, where his advice and co-operation were eagerly sought by stock breeders from various sections of the country.

Captain Leonard was equally successful in other fields of enterprise, as he was as a breeder. He was interested in the banking business extensively and at the time of his death he was president of the Central National Bank of Boonville, one of Cooper County's substantial financial institutions. He was a man of keen perception and good judgment. He not only knew cattle, but he knew men as well. He was a liberal contributor to every worthy enterprise and gave generously to religious and other causes. He was a Methodist.

Capt. Charles E. Leonard was united in marriage to Miss Nadine Nelson, Oct. 27, 1872. She is a daughter of James M. and Margaret (Wyan) Nelson, Cooper County pioneers, a more extensive history of whom is given in connection with the sketch of Dr. Arthur W. Nelson. Mrs. Leonard now resides at Booneville.

Nathaniel Nelson Leonard, whose name introduces this sketch, was educated in Kemper Military School, where he was graduated in the class of 1896. He then attended Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tenn., where he completed the law course in 1898, after which he traveled extensively in Europe. He then returned to Cooper County, and since that time has made his home at "Ravenswood Farm", where he has continued the breeding of Shorthorns which is being carried on on an extensive scale under the supervision of his superintendent, Ed Patterson, a man who thoroughly understands the stock business in the most minute detail, and a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this volume.

Ravenswood Stock Farm is one of the famous stock farms of America. It consists of 2,100 acres, and is devoted to breeding Shorthorn cattle. It was founded in 1825, as above stated, by the grandfather of the present (48) owner. A herd of 125 pure bred Shorthorns is maintained on this place, and upon this place some of the highest priced Shorthorn cattle in the world have been bred. One animal from this farm was sold for $40,000 at the Royal Stock sale in Argentina. Stock from the "Ravenswood Farm" are well known and highly prized, not only in this country but in South America and other parts of the world.

Nathaniel Nelson Leonard was united in marriage at Chicago, 111., Jan. 20, 1909, with Miss Roselia Willard, daughter of Henry G. and Anne (Rafferty) Willard. Henry G. Willard is a native of Pennsylvania, born at Newtown, Dec. 17, 1846, and his wife was a native of Pittsburgh, Pa. and died in Chicago, 111. Mr. Willard was formerly engaged in the manufacture of gas and electric light fixtures, and is now retired and makes his home at the "Ravenswood Farm". To Mr. and Mrs. Leonard were born three children, as follows: Nathaniel N., Jr., born Feb. 5, 1910; Charles Willard, born Jan. 18, 1912, and Anne Nadine, born July 25, 1914. Mrs. Leonard was born in Chicago, 111., Feb. 5, 1885, and died at "Ravenswood Farm" Nov. 11, 1918. She was a woman of noble Christian character who made the world better by having lived in it. During her lifetime she was active in charitable and social work, and it is a noteworthy fact that during the World War her devotion to the cause of the Red Cross was the crowning event of her life.

Mr. Leonard, in addition to his vast interest in the stock business, is active in other industrial and financial enterprises. He is a director of the Boonville National Bank, and also in the Bank of Bunceton. He is a Knights Templar Mason, being a member at Boonville, and he also holds membership in the Mystic Shrine, Ararat Temple, Kansas City, Mo. He takes a commendable interest in public affairs, and is a council member of Gov. Gardner's staff.

Fleming H. Shannon, for most of his life a citizen of Cooper County, but now of Texas County, Mo., was born in Cooper County, Dec. 19, 1861. His father, Alexander Shannon, was born in Maryland about 1810, and came to Cooper County about 1825. He was a farmer, and first located in Boonville, then moved to Clarks Fork township, and again back to Boonville township. Here he spent the rest of his life as a prosperous and successful farmer. He died in June, 1893, and left as the fruits of his industry and skill, a large estate. He married Miss Julia Hurt, daughter of Peyton and Jennin (Coobe) Hurt. Five children were born of that marriage, G. W., E. B., F. H., J. B., and Nannie, all of whom are living except J. B.

F. H. Shannon was reared on a farm, attended the public schools of this county, and took a special business course at the Moore Business College of Sedalia, graduating in 1883. He was married in November, 1884, to Katie J. Fray, daughter of John and Mary (Westerfield) Fray, to which union was born one child, George William, born March 12, 1886. He is at present located at Detroit, Mich., as the manager of the F. Joseph Lamb & Co., manufacturers, who during the World War were engaged solely in the manufacture of munitions. Mrs. Shannon died March 8, 1890.

Nov. 1, 1893, the subject of this sketch was married to Miss Nannie F. Bankston, daughter of John and Bettie (Miller) Bankston, of which union three children were born: Clarence Miller, 21 years of age; Ida Belle, 19, and Eugene Monroe, 13. Mrs. Shannon died in March, 1917.

Mr. Shannon was elected county judge of the Eastern District of Cooper County in 1902 and again in 1904. He served the people with fidelity and distinction and rendered himself popular by reason of his eminent fairness upon the bench.

At the expiration of his second term of office he continued farming until he entered the service of the International Harvester Company in 1908, with whom he remained three years. In 1911, the state of Missouri sought and secured his services as probation officer of the Missouri Training School at Boonville, which position he held about four years, and then was advanced to the position of Assistant Superintendent of that institution. He resigned Nov. 1, 1917, and moved to Texas County where he had purchased a farm.

Mr. Shannon is a member of the Christian Church, a Democrat, and a Free Mason. He is warm hearted, fervent and active in any cause that he espouses and is a true friend. He has always taken an active and prominent part in politics.

Albert H. Myer, president and manager of the Palace Clothing Company, Boonville, Mo., can truly be said to have been born and reared a merchant. He first saw the light of day at Rocheport, Mo., June 30, 1872. His father, Charles Myer, was born at Illegen, Germany, Jan. 20, 1845, and died at Fayette, Mo., March 17, 1911. When a small boy about nine years, he came from Germany to make America his home. He first engaged in business for himself at Rocheport, Mo., where for a number of years he conducted a general store. From there he went to Fayette, Mo., and engaged in the clothing business and conducted said business about 20 years, to the time of his death. He was married in 1868 to

Laura (Tumy) Myer. She was born in Rocheport, Mo., Dec. 25, 1847, and is now living at Fayette. She is the daughter of Henry and George Ann Tumy, both of whom were born in Louisville, Ky., and both descendents of old Kentucky families.

The subject of this sketch was engaged in the mercantile business under the tuition of his fathers since old enough to wait upon customers. He was educated in the public schools at Rocheport and Fayette. Nov. 6, 1901, he was married at Fayette to Estelle May Turner, the daughter of Robert and Adelia (Gibson) Turner, both of whom came from Virginia to Howard County with their respective parents in the early days and were united in marriage in Howard County. Their forefathers on both sides were in the Revolutionary War. The grandfather of Mrs. Estelle, age about 16; Albert H., age about 12, and Dorothy Ross, about B. Gibson, a distinguished soldier and commander in the war of the Revolution.

There was born to Albert H. Myer and wife, three children: Laura Estelle, age about 16; Albert H., age about 12, and Dorothy Rose, about nine. Mr. Myer was associated with his father for a number of years at Fayette in the clothing business and in connection with his brother established a branch clothing store at Franklin, Mo., where they did an extensive and prosperous business for five or six years. Seeking broader fields, in 1909 he moved to Boonville where he has conducted a successful and growing business ever since. He is the president and acting manager of the Palace Clothing Company of Boonville, which is incorporated and has an elegant and up-to-date stock of clothing and he prides himself on the quality of the goods he sells. The store is equipped with every modem convenience and will stand comparison with the best arranged and furnished clothing stores of the larger cities. The business of the Palace Clothing Company has grown from year to year. Mr. Myer is ever kind and courteous and is a most applicable and pleasing salesman. His friends are legion. He is an active and live wire in all public enterprises that go to build up the city in which he lives. He is generous and willing to donate and pay his portion in every public movement. He is the vice-president of the Boonville Commercial Club, a member of the Board of Directors and active and enthusiastic in all its operations. In 1917 he was president of the State Retail Clothiers of Missouri. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias, is past Chancellor of same, and is now one of the directors.

H. F. Gilbreath was born in Tennessee, Feb. 1, 1826, and died in Vernon County, Missouri, Jan. 26, 1888, and his remains were interred in New Salem Cemetery, in this county. His father, Hugh Gilbreath, the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was born in Virginia, March 10, 1781, and died in Cooper County, Jan. 21, 1852. The grandmother, Flora (McDuffy) Gilbreath, the wife of Hugh Gilbreath, was born in Tennessee, and died in Cooper County in February, 1875. The remains of this couple were also interred in New Salem Cemetery.

W. G. Gilbreath's mother was the daughter of Robert and Hannah Carpenter. Robert Carpenter was born in Kentucky in 1798, and died in Cooper County, March, 1830. Hannah was born in North Carolina, Oct. 11, 1802, and died in Cooper County, Feb. 19, 1865. Mr. Gilbreath's family on both sides were among the oldest and most respected citizens of Missouri, and among the early settlers of Cooper County.

His grandparents, above mentioned, moved to Cooper County in 1827, and settled in Prairie Home township in what is known as the Newt Gilbreath farm. William M. Gilbreath and Newton A. Gilbreath, both deceased, were uncles of the subjects of this sketch. Mr. Gilbreath spent his early years upon a farm, and was educated in the public schools and at Brannock's College at Pleasant Hill, Mo. He was an officer at the Missouri Reform School in 1892, and served efficiently and satisfactorily in that capacity for two years under the superintendency of Colonel Drake. From 1897 he was deputy sheriff for four years under J. M. Rymel, and as such was active, vigilant, and competent, and it is safe to say that no former deputy or any succeeding one excelled him in the performance of his duties. He was married in 1900 to Miss Mary Waller, daughter of the late and lamented Judge John A. Waller, who was one of Cooper County's most esteemed citizens, having served the people of his county in responsible positions with credit and distinction.

Judge Waller was born in Kentucky, Nov. 19, 1826, and died in Cooper County, Jan. 6, 1915. Judge Waller's father, Benjamin R. Waller, was born in Kentucky in 1802, and settled in Cooper County in 1840. He departed this life in Cooper County in January, 1891. The wife of Benjamin Waller was Lucy (Harris) Waller, who was born in 1810 in Clark County, Ky., and died in Cooper County.

born in Clark County, Ky., Sept. 14, 1844, and died in Cooper County, Feb. 13, 1878. Cordelia's father was Waller Holladay, and was born in Clark County, Ky., March 17, 1797, and died in Cooper County, Oct. 11, 1876. He was married in 1843. It will thus be seen that Mrs. Gilbreath is a descendant of one of our oldest and best families.

W. G. Gilbreath was for a number of years the superintendent of the county infirmary, and rendered valuable service to the county in the building and establishment of the new infirmary ; and with the assistance of his competent wife, raised it to a standard unsurpassed by any institution of its kind in the state.

Mr. Gilbreath is an active and enthusiastic Democrat, a member of the Presbyterian Church, and a Free Mason. He is a gentleman of positive connection, a staunch friend, dependable and worthy of the high esteem in which he is held.

Ray P. Cramer is one of Cooper County's progressive farmers and business men. He was born in Lamine township, Sept. 25, 1880, and is the son of G. A. Cramer, Jr., who was the son of G. A. Cramer. Ray Cramer's grandfather came from Holland to this country. The ship in which he came was wrecked and he was one of the few survivers. He located first in Pennsylvania, then moved to Kentucky, and from there came to Cooper County and settled here soon after the first Turleys, thought to be about 1814.

The land upon which Ray P. Cramer now lives was a part of the tract on which his grandfather settled. Mr. Cramer's grandfather on his mother's side was Frank Hill, who came from Cincinnati, Ohio, and located in Cooper County soon after the Civil War. The subject of this sketch is the owner of 102 acres of highly improved and well cultivated land and is situated two miles west of Lamine station in Lamine township. He has spent his entire life in Cooper County, except about one year which he spent in Oklahoma. He was educated in the public schools of the county, and took a special commercial course at another institution. He was the organizer of the Boonville Oil and Gas Company at Okmulgee, Okla., and the Gilmer Oil Company of the same place, both of which are now consolidated and known as the Gilmer Oil Company. Mr. Cramer has been successful in the oil fields and upon property aforesaid has seven producing oil wells and two productive gas wells. He is the manager of this company, and has the absolute confidence of those who have invested with him. They are mostly local men, and as a testimony of their confidence and esteem, they presented him a few months ago with a handsome $250 Victrola.

Mr. Cramer was married to Lilly K. Wing, the daughter of D. W. Wing, one of the most substantial citizens of central Missouri. The father of D. W. Wing came to Missouri and settled in Cooper County about 1818. Three children were born of this marriage: David, age 14; W. Russell, age 13, and Catherine Lucile, age six. David has graduated from the eighth grade and next year is to enter the Kemper Military School of this city.

Mr. Cramer is a Democrat of high degree, a member of the Christian Church, an estimable citizen, popular with all who know him, and successful in his ventures.

Felix Victor, one of the leading clothiers of central Missouri, when a young man came to Mexico, Mo., in 1884, and clerked in the clothing store of Joseph and Victor Barth, under whose tutelage and training he learned thoroughly and in detail the clothing business. The Barths were extensive clothiers, having at the same time another store at Columbia, Mo. Mr. Victor served them for about nine years and came to Boonville, Sept. 2, 1893, and engaged in the clothing business with his brother, Adolph Victor, who had served his apprenticeship in the Barth store in Columbia, under the firm name of F. & A. Victor. This firm for seven years conducted their business on Main Street in the building now occupied by the Tanner Studio. The firm moved to the corner of Spring and Main Streets in 1900 to secure larger quarters, occupying the building then known as the Windsor Building. A few years thereafter they purchased his building together with an adjoining building and wrecked the same and upon the lots erected a magnificent structure for their ever growing business. This building is a monument to the success and enterprise of the subject of this sketch. It is handsomely furnished and equipped, and has every convenient appointment required by the most up-to-date mercantile establishment. It is an honor and credit to Boonville and Cooper County, and doubtless has not its equal in the state outside of St. Louis and Kansas City. January, 1919, Adolph Victor retired from the firm and Felix, the subject of this sketch, became the sole proprietor. Mr. Victor has always prided himself upon the quality of his goods and completeness of his stock.

Mr. Victor was married Jan. 1, 1902, to Miss Ida Barth. daughter of Joseph Barth, now deceased. Mrs. Victor has taken pleasure in active leadership in all civic and social matters in the city.

Clarence W. Atkinson, proprietor of an excellent farm in Palestine township and one of the best known farmers in that part of Cooper County, is a native of this county. He was born on a farm in Boonville township, Sept. 17, 1876, son of William and Sarah E. (Dickey) Atkinson, the former of whom is still living, now a resident of Boonville.

William Atkinson was born in Ohio County, Virginia, now in that part of the Old Dominion comprised in West Virginia, May 14, 1837, a son of John and Margaret (Trimble) Atkinson, Pennsylvanians and both members of old Colonial families. The Atkinsons in this country are of Scottish origin and the family was founded on this side before the days of the Revolution. March 5, 1863, William Atkinson married Sarah E. Dickey, who was born in Washington County, Pennsylvania, Oct. 21, 1836, and whom he had known since the days of their childhood when they were playmates, and in 1865 he and his wife came to Missouri and located in Cooper County, settling on a farm which he bought in Boonville township. He later moved to a farm near Prairie Lick and in 1881 bought a farm in Palestine township, where he continued to reside until his retirement in 1910. His wife died on Feb. 28, 1917, and in 1918 he moved to Boonville, where he is now living. To William and Sarah E. (Dickey) Atkinson were born five children, of whom three are still living, the subject of this sketch having two brothers, Miller T. Atkinson, of Palestine township, and Charles S. Atkinson, of Boonville.

Reared on the farm, Clarence W. Atkinson has always followed agricultural pursuits and is now the owner of a well improved farm of 260 acres in Palestine township, where he is quite successfully engaged in general farming and stock raising. He received his schooling in the local district schools and as a young man took a part in the operations of the home farm, continuing thus engaged until in 1901 when he rented a farm and began operations on his own account. By hard work and good management he was enabled in Jan., 1909, to buy the farm on which he is now living. Since taking possession of that place Mr. Atkinson has made numerous improvements on the same and now has an admirable farm plant and is doing well. Politically, he is an independent republican. He and his family are members of the Presbyterian Church.

On April 14, 1904, Clarence W. Atkinson was united in marriage to Lydia H. Muntzel, who also was born in this county, and who died on July 10, 1918. To that union were born three children, Ruth E., John F. and Clarence W., Jr. (deceased). The late Mrs. Lydia H. Atkinson was born in Clarks Fork township, this county, April 30, 1881, and was thus but a little past 37 years of age at the time of her death. She was a member of one of the old families in Cooper County, the. Muntzels having been represented here since the days just following the close of the Civil War.

Dr. T. H. Winterbower was born on the Ohio River in Hardin County, Ky., July 25, 1848. He was graduated in medicine from the University of Kentucky at Louisville in 1869. After graduating he immediately came to Missouri to locate and selected Overton, in Saline township of this county, to practice his profession. He followed his profession and had an extensive practice in that part of the county until he moved to Boonville in 1906. He then became deputy county clerk, retiring from the practice of medicine. In 1909 he was the nominee of the Democratic party for probate judge of Cooper County and was elected to that office. He was again, in 1813, the nominee of that party and was again elected, holding the same two full terms of eight years. Dr. Winterbower was married in 1876 to Miss Belle Wooldridge. There were born of this marriage two children, Stanley, who is in business at Sapulpa, Okla., and Nellie, who lives with her father.

Dr. Winterbower's father came to Kentucky in the early days from Tennessee. His mother was born in Hardin County, Ky., and her maiden name was Nannie Hays. The Hays family were old settlers of Kentucky. Dr. Winterbower's wife was the daughter of Jesse Wooldridge and Susan Hays Wooldridge who were married in Kentucky and came to Missouri in the early days. Mrs. Winterbower died at Boonville in 1912.

Dr. Winterbower, in office, was known not only for his efficiency but for his universal affability and courtesy. As a physician he was capable and sympathetic. He has always taken a deep interest in politics and public affairs.

Alexander H. Stephens, Jr., who is a prosperous traveling salesman, was born May 7, 1894, at Boonville, Mo. His father, A. H. Stephens, is a son of James L. Stephens and is also a brother of Speed and ex-Governor Lon V. Stephens. His mother, Adda (Edgar) Stephens, is a daughter of Russell L. Edgar, her mother being a member of the Spahr family. The Stephens, Edgars, and Spahrs are among the oldest families of Cooper County.

Alexander H. Stephens, Jr., was educated in the public schools of Boonville, attended the Kemper Military School two years and graduated in the academic course at Central College, Fayette, Mo. After graduating, he was for a short time associated with his father in the automobile business and in conducting a garage. In 1916 he accepted employment from the Hine-Watt Manufacturing Company of Chicago as trav- eling salesman. His territory consists of the states of Missouri, Kansas and Oklahoma. He was married Jan. 6, 1919, to Miss Doris Eugenia Schmidt, the daughter of M. E. Schmidt, the son-in-law of the late lamented ex-Lieutenant Governor James F. Gmelich.

Mr. Stephens is a young man who is hewing out his own fortune and is making success of his efforts. He has a pleasant manner and a pleasing address. He is known among his trade as being entirely dependable and is meeting with marked success.

Frank C. Brickey, one of the live wires among the young business men of Boonville, was born July 22, 1893, at Festus, Mo. His father, F. W. Brickey, was born at Brickeys Landing, Mo., 75 years ago, and the father of F. W. Brickey, grandfather of the subject of this sketch,, was also born in Missouri, the Brickey stock originally coming from Virginia. John S. Brickey, the first circuit attorney of the circuit in which Cooper County was a part and who lived in Franklin, Mo., was a great-uncle of the subject of this sketch. Mr. Brickey 's mother, Nettie E. (Davis) Brickey, was born in St. Louis, Mo., and is 58 years of age. She belongs to the old Davis family of Missouri.

Mr. Brickey graduated from the high school at Festus and then attended the Western Military Academy, Alton, 111., and Central College, Fayette, Mo. After having spent about two years at Fayette, Mo., Mr. Brickey removed to Boonville in the fall of 1914, assumed charge of the agency for the sale of Ford cars in this section and conducted a sales and service station at the Viertel Garage. The following year he moved to the Stephen's Garage located in the Harriman building on Main Street, and in 1917, purchased the business of this garage. In 1919 he leased the Viertel Garage building above mentioned in order to give him more room for the rapidly expanding business. This building has 40,000 square feet and is by far the largest garage in central Missouri and on the first floor there is doubtless more floor space than in any other garage in the state. Here he handles the Ford cars and Ford tractors and reasonably anticipates, for the coming year, a business of $500,000.

In 1919, Mr. Brickey purchased the "Elkins & Elkins Garage" at Bunceton, Mo., as a Ford Sales and Service Station in that section of the county and is known as the "Bunceton Auto Company." The building in which he conducts this business is about 60x90 feet, and the business there is a thriving one. In the spring of 1918 he sold a one-half interest in the Bunceton Auto Company to J. H. Schlotzhauer, who from that date became the active manager there.

In the first part of the year 1918 Mr. Brickey purchased from Jacob Deck, the Lyric Theater (picture show) and soon thereafter sold a onehalf interest in the same to the late Dr. A. C. Jacobs. This enterprise is now conducted by Mr. Brickey in conjunction with Mark Jacobs, brother of Dr. A. C. Jacobs. In May, 1919, he purchased the building known as the Stephen's Opera House in connection with Mr. Mark Jacobs and is now arranging for various improvements of this building. At the beginning of the World War he offered his service to his country and was selected as civilian instructor at the vocational training school at Columbia, Mo., and was made head instructor of Motor Mechanics, which position he held for seven months, until the closing of the school. December 15, 1918, he was appointed by the government to take charge and dispose of the equipment and material of the school which duty he performed in a most satisfactory manner to the government. He is now at Boonville, energetically and successfully conducting his various enterprises.

Guy C. Million, associated with his father in the management of the Frederick Hotel of Boonville, was bom July 22, 1878, in Chariton County, Mo. He is the son of W. R. Million and Martha A. (McCampbell) Million. W. R. Million is a veteran hotel man, having operated some of the most popular hotels of the state and is favorably and well known to the traveling public. Though never a candidate for office he takes a deep interest in Democratic politics in state as well as county affairs. Martha (Mc- Campbell) Million was born and reared in Chariton County, Mo., and her parents, Robert S. and Mary (Willis) McCampbell, were born and reared in Shelby County, Ky. They came to Missouri in 1858, making the trip in emigrant wagons.

Guy C. Million, the subject of the review, was educated in the public schools of Glasgow, and at Pritchett Institute. He spent five years in the drug business at Salisbury, Mo., and for four years was in the Hospital Department of the United States Navy and saw service in the Philippines, China and Japan. For the past 15 years, associated with his father, he has managed and conducted the famed Frederick Hotel at Boonville. As a host he has no superior in central Missouri, and is popular with the trading public. He is a Free Mason of high standing and rank, being a Past Master, Past High Priest, and Past Eminent Commander. He is a Stewart of the M. E. Church, South, and in politics, a Democrat.

(Lea) Dameron, and was born in Randolph County, Mo., and moved with her parents to Salisbury. She was educated in Salisbury Academy. Her grandfather, Judge A. G. Lea, was a prominent judge in north Missouri before the Civil War. Her father enlisted in the Civil War in the Confederate Army at the age of 15, who as well as her paternal grandfather, served through the Civil War, and was engaged in many important battles. Her great-great-great-grandfather, Joseph Dameron, fought through the war of the Revolution, and was married to Sarah Ball, a first cousin of George Washington.

C. H. Brokmeyer, who departed this life, aged 57, in Boonville, on Wednesday morning, July 23, 1902, was born in Hille, Westphalia, Germany, April 20, 1845. He came to the United States when about 20 years of age. After living in St. Louis and Jefferson City a short time, he moved to Bunceton and opened a tailor shop. Later he located at Boonville and in association with C. H. Heim engaged in the general merchandise business. This partnership continued two years when the interest of Heim was purchased by A. Schnedler. At the end of the year Mr. Brokmeyer became the sole owner and manager of the store and from this time he continued in the business until the date of his demise. During his residence in Boonville, Mr. Brokmeyer built more than 60 dwellings. At the time of his death he was the owner of two store houses, the home property, and twelve residences.

Mr. Brokmeyer and Miss Hannah Otten were united in marriage in Boonville on Dec. 6, 1870, and seven children were born to this union, one having died in infancy. He left surviving him the widow, and six children, John, who married Miss Stella Yeater of Sedalia; Mrs. Emma Schott; Frank, who depa'rted this life in his 40th year, Aug. 21, 1916, loved, respected, and honored, having a host of friends; William; Mrs. Sophia Page, and Henry, who married Miss Eva Cross of New Franklin, Mo.

Mr. Brokmeyer was a valuable and highly respected citizen of Boonville and was an active factor in every public enterprise and in the upbuilding of the city. He had a most pleasing disposition, a kind word for everyone, and always wore a smile. No deal or trade was too big for him to handle. He bought anything and was always willing to sell. He built up an enormous business and seemed to handle and manage the same with astonishing ease. In his death Boonville, as well as his family, suffered an irretrievable loss. His business has been continued by his wife under the able management of her three sons, Frank, William, and Henry. Frank having died, the management has devolved upon William and Henry, who have been successful in the enterprise and have continued the prosperity built up by their father in the mercantile business. They are the fortunate possessors of happy, kind, and accommodating dispositions and number their friends by the legion.

Dr. Paul Ashland Brickey is a brother of Frank C. Brickey whose sketch appears in this volume. He is therefore of the same parentage and genealogy. Dr. Brickey, the subject of this sketch, was born at Festus, Mo., where his father and mother now live, Feb. 17, 1895. He attended the public schools of Festus and took the high school course at that place after which he attended the Western Military Academy, Alton, 111., for two years and graduated from the same. His father then sent him to Central College at Fayette where he spent two years in the preparatory medical course. Then he attended school at the St. Louis University, School of Medicine, and was graduated from that institution in 1918. He served one year as intern at St. Mary's Hospital.

June 17, 1918, Dr. Brickey entered the service of his country and was sent to France as a first lieutenant in the Medical Corps with Base Hospital No. 112. He was stationed at Camp Pontanezen, Napoleon Barracks, Brest, France. Here he rendered valuable services as a physician in relieving the pain and suffering of our soldier boys. He returned to the United States Feb. 17, 1919, and was discharged April 15. He is now commissioned in the Medical Reserve Corps.

Soon after his discharge from the service he located in Boonville and is now engaged in the practice of medicine. He is examiner for life insurance companies and is rapidly building up a remunerative practice. Dr. Brickey is thoroughly educated and in every respect well equipped and qualified for his chosen profession of medicine.

George H. Scholle, a merchant tailor of Boonville who also handles Victrolas and pianos, was born in Hanover, Germany, March 4, 1872. His parents were William and Mary (Schuerman) Scholle of the province of Hanover, who, as well as their parents before them were born in Hanover, Germany. William Scholle died in 1881. Mary Scholle, now about 82 years of age is yet living.

years. Mr. Scholle learned the business of tailoring in Germany, serving an apprenticeship. From Indiana, Mr. Scholle went to Toledo, Ohio, where he remained until 1903 when he came to the Reform School for Boys at Boonville and for one year had charge of the tailoring department. From there he went to Versailles, Mo., where he remained four years. He then returned to the Reform School and under the superintendency of Col. Clark had charge of the tailoring department and instructed the boys therein for three years. In 1915 Mr. Scholle opened his establishment in Boonville where he is now occupied as a merchant tailor and handles victrolas and musical instruments. His wife, Amanda (Unverferth) Scholle, was born in Pemberville, Ohio, in 1874. Her parents came from Germany. She and Mr. Scholle were married in Toledo, Ohio, where Mrs. Scholle's parents lived at that time. There were born of this union eight children: Albro, 23 years of age, is serving his country in the Marines; Wilbur, 21, is assisting his father; Paul, 19, is also with his father ; Alma, 17 years of age ; Frederick, 13 ; Helen, 10 ; George, seven, and Bertha, four.

Mr. Scholle is a conscientious, and painstaking workman. He is affable and accommodating and by his close attention to business and his effort to please, he has built up an extensive business. He is a loyal American citizen and has willingly and cheerfully responded to all calls made upon him in war activities.

Theodore F. Lebing is a prosperous merchant at Clarks Fork. He conducts a general mercantile store in the center of a rich agricultural section of the county. He was born Aug. 21, 1878, at Clarks Fork and reared on a farm in Cooper County. When old enough he engaged in farming until 1917 when he formed a partnership with Charles Q. Mills. They conducted a general merchandise business at Clarks Fork under the firm name of Lebing & Mills. During this partnership they did a large business and handled large quantities of poultry and produce which they transported to Boonville and shipped to market. The firm of Lebing & Mills was successor in the business to 0. L. Letherman. May 7, 1919, Mr. Lebing purchased the interest of his partner and since then the business has been conducted by him. He was a successful farmer and is now a successful merchant.

October 13, 1900, Mr. Lebing was married to Miss Delia Mills, daughter of Charles T. and Ellen (Brusius) Mills. Charles T. Mills was son of Henry W. and Susan (Lewis) Mills. The Mills family is numerous in Cooper County, prosperous and of high standing.

Lebing, both deceased. Lewis Lebing was born in Hanover, Germany, in 1913, and came to this country in 1856 and located on a farm in Clarks Fork township. His wife, Johanna Brandes, was also born in Germany, in 1838, and came to Cooper County with her parents in 1855. Christine Brandes, the father of Johanna Brandes, settled first in Iowa and then came to Cooper County which became his home. The Brandes family with its numerous branches is well known in Cooper County for honesty, integrity and industry.

Harry A. Creagan, president of the Farmer's Trust Company of Boonville, was born in Cooper County, July 30, 1882. His father was P. F. Creagan, who came to Missouri in 1859 and settled at St. Louis where he lived for seven years. He was largely engaged in railroading in different capacities on the Missouri, Kansas and Texas railroad and in 1876 purchased a farm of 280 acres near Clifton City, Cooper County, where he located and where he died. He was a prominent Democrat, a member of the Catholic Church, and a highly esteemed citizen. His father, William Creagan, came from the county of Meath, Ireland, and was married in New York to Miss Elizabeth Scullin. P. F. Creagan was married in 1863 to Miss Fannie Keenan, of St. Louis, a daughter of Daniel Keenan of New York.

Harry A Creagan, was the ninth child born to P. F. and Fannie (Keenan) Creagan. He was educated in the public schools of Cooper County and graduated from the high school of Sedalia. He then became telegraph operator at the M., K. & T. station at Boonville. For five years he was a trusted employee of W. H. Trigg & Co. Jan. 23, 1909, he move! to St. Louh and accepte i a responsible position with the Mercantile Trust Company, which he held for ten years. Aug. 9, 1918, he enlisted in the United States Navy and was mustered out Dec. 11, 1918. He has recently organized the Farmer's Trust Company of Boonville, of which he has been selected president. Mr. Creagan's career has been one of continued advancement. He has had a thorough training in finance and is experienced in all banking matters. He is one of the promising young financiers of central Missouri.

Homer McGuire, one of the successful and progressive young farmers of Cooper County, was born Dec. 6, 1886, in Pilot Grove township, Cooper County. His father, J. V. McGuire, 66 years of age, is also a native son of Cooper County. Thirty-six years ago he was married to Miss Mary Hurd a native of Illinois. J. V. McGuire is one of the substantial citizens of Cooper County, known for his honesty and integrity.

He was reared on a farm, and under the tutelage of his father, and by close attention to the study of agriculture and stock-raising, he has secured a success that may be envied. He was married Aug. 5, 1914, to Miss Brooksie Rush, at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. R. Rush, Kansas City, Mo. There has been born to this union one child, a son, Wilbur V., Dec. 16, 1918.

Homer McGuire is a Republican, but in casting his vote uses his own intelligence rather than the dictum of party. He was made a Master Mason in 1918, and is a member of Cooper Lodge, A. F. & A. M., Boonville, Mo. Associated with his father, he superintends and conducts a farm consisting of over 200 fertile acres in Pilot Grove township, which is in the highest state of cultivation and well improved. Here his energies are devoted, not only to agriculture but in the breeding and raising of live-stock, of which he has made quite a success. He is respected and esteemed by all who know, and his friends are many.

Peter Franklin Smith, a well known and substantial farmer and stockman of Lebanon township, proprietor (in joint ownership with his wife) of "Wayside Valley Farm", a well improved place of 180 acres in that township, is a native son of Cooper County. He was born on a farm at the edge of the village of Otterville in the township of that name on June 29, 1854, son of George W. and Nancy E. (Neal) Smith.

George W. Smith, who died at his home in this county 25 years ago, was a Virginian and grew to manhood in the Old Dominion, remaining there until he was 27 years of age, when with his wife and four children (for he was twice married, his first wife dying about 10 years after they took up their residence here) he came to Missouri in 1837 and located at Otterville, where he opened a blacksmith shop and there became engaged working at the trade to which he had been trained in Virginia, proving in this capacity a valued factor in the life of the new community. When he came here the deer were very numerous hereabout and as he was an ardent sportsman he found much pleasure in the hunt. From the time he killed his first deer up to the time of the Civil War he kept tally of the deer he killed and the net bag totalled in excess of 60. Even after war times quite a few deer still lingered in the deeper portions of the woods in this section, affording further sport for this tireless Nimrod. The first summer of his settlement at Otterville he planted five or six acres of corn on a tract some distance from the hamlet, but when the time came to gather the ripened ears the inconvenience of bringing the same in deterred him and he left the corn for the deer. During the Civil War Mr. Smith had a contract with the government to furnish beef for the army and became well known over the county as a cattle buyer in that connection. He continued to make his home in the Otterville neighborhood and there spent his last days, his death occurring on April 7, 1894. He was bom on May 10, 1810, and was thus slightly under 84 years of age at the time of his death. As noted above, George W. Smith was twice married. His first wife, who was a Beard and whom he married in Virginia, died at her home in this county in 1843. Of the four children born to that union two are still living, Mrs. Virginia Ann Finley, of this county, and Mrs. Ellen Wagenknecht, of the neighboring county of Morgan. In 1847 Mr. Smith married Nancy E. Neal, who was born on a pioneer farm in Lebanon township, this county, Dec. 14, 1827, and who (as noted above) is still living, an honored nonogenarian of the Otterville community. To this second union eight children were born. Of these six grew to maturity and four are still living, those besides the subject of this biographical sketch (the eldest) being Nathan A. Smith, long a resident of Kansas; Mrs. Martha E. White, a widow, now living at Otterville with her aged mother, and Mrs. Rose L. Bane of Otterville township.

Reared on the home farm on the edge of the village of Otterville, Peter F. Smith received his schooling in the Otterville schools and from the days of his boyhood his attention has been devoted to farming. In the fall of 1880 he married and in 1881 bought the farm on which he is now living, beautiful "Wayside Valley Farm", in Lebanon township, which he has improved in admirable fashion. In addition to his general farming Mr. Smith has for years been quite extensively engaged in breeding Shorthorn cattle of the Scotch Top breed and has been a frequent exhibitor at stock shows hereabout. He has created a good market for the products of "Wayside Valley Farm", his cattle commanding good prices, and has done well in his operations, long having been recognized as one of the leading stockmen in that neighborhood. He is a member of the Bunceton Fair Association and has done well his share in promoting the interests of that useful organization. He also is a stockholder in the local bank and in the company controlling the grain elevator and in other ways exhibits his interest in the general business affairs of the community. In his political views Mr. Smith is a democrat, as was his father. He and his family are members of the Presbyterian Church.

Oct. 6, 1880, Peter F. Smith was united in marriage to Margaret Ida Cordry, who also was bom in this county, member of one of the pioneer families, and to this union eleven children have been born, namely: Harry A., deceased - Azelia Velma, wife of T. A. Nelson, Jr., of Kelly township ;

Margaret Naomi, wife of Dr. W. C. Lewis, of St. Louis; Hunter F., of Speed, this county, Homer W., who is at home assisting his father; Zula, wife of Benjamin N. Smith, of Clarks Fork township; Hubert L., of Palestine township; Mary (Gussie) Herschel and Harold V., at home, and Vera, who died in infancy. Mrs. Smith was born in Lebanon township on Dec. 13, 1860, daughter of William L. and Mary (Ware) Cordry, both now deceased and both members of pioneer families in this section of Missouri. William L. Cordry was born in Todd County, Ky., and came to Missouri with his parents in pioneer days, the family locating in Cooper County. Here he married Mary Ware, who was born in the neighboring county of Howard, and to that union were born eight children, all of whom are living save one; the Cordry connection hereabout being a quite numerous one in the present generation.

Woodson T. Jones, proprietor of an excellent farm in Blackwater township, and who formerly was engaged in the railway service as telegraph operator, was born on a farm in Blackwater township March 19, 1883, a son of George C. Jones and a grandson of the pioneer, Caleb Jones, who at the time of his death in the early '80's was said to have been the wealthiest man in Cooper County.

Woodson T. Jones received his education in the district school and Pilot Grove Academy, from which he was graduated in 1901. In the meantime he had learned telegraphing at Pilot Grove and in 1902 was made station agent on the Sedalia division of the Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railroad. In the following year he transferred his services to the Santa Fe railroad and for seven or eight years thereafter continued as a telegraph operator, serving the Santa Fe and other western roads. He then returned home, having in the meantime shared in the division of his father's extensive estate, and engaged in farming. In addition to his general farming operations Mr. Jones has gone in somewhat extensively for live stock and is doing a good business in that line. He is the owner of a well improved farm of 160 acres. Mr. Jones is a democrat.

June 30. 1913, Woodson T. Jones was united in marriage with Hulda Kirkman, of this county, and to this union one child has been born, Martha Sue. Mrs. Jones was born at Columbia, Boone County, but from the days of her girlhood has been a resident of this county. Her parents, John B. Kirkman and wife (the latter of whom was a Blanchard), came here years ago and located on a farm in Saline township, where they spent the remainder of their lives. In addition to his farming operations John B. Kirkman was a dealer in memorial monuments and was one of the well

Charles E. Roth, one of the well known farmers of Pilot Grove township, was born in Cole County, Mo., March 1, 1859, son of Louis and Mary (Meyer) Roth, the former a veteran of the Civil War and both spent their last days in Cooper County. %

Louis Roth was born in Germany and came t^ this country with his parents, Charles Roth and wife, in 1848, the family locating on a farm in Kentucky, where they were living when the Civil War broke out. Both father and son enlisted in the Union army, serving in the same company, in Gen. "Pap" Thomas' celebrated brigade. Charles Roth's first wife died after they came to this country and he married again and spent his last days in Kentucky. Shortly after the Civil War Louis Roth came to Missouri and entered on a soldier's homestead in Cole County, a tract of 80 acres, but shortly afterward left Cole County and in 1866 came to Cooper County. For two yeai's after coming here he worked at Boonville and then bought a farm in Pilot Grove township, where he spent the remainder of his life. He died in 1899, being 72 years old. His wife survived him but five days. She also was born in Germany, in Aug., 1830. She was a member of the Evangelical Church and her husband was a member of the Catholic Church. Louis Roth and his wife were the parents of six children as follows: Charles E. ; Caroline, wife of C. G. Stanfield, Pilot Grove township ; Lucy, married C. W. Erhardt and is now deceased ; Martin is unmarried and lives in Pilot Grove township; Frank M., Kelly township, and Fred, Pilot Grove.

Charles E. Roth's first schooling was received in a Lutheran parochial school and he later attended school in the old Bluffton district in Boonville township and in Hail Ridge district. When seventeen years of age he began to "look out for himself", working as a farm hand, but soon resumed operations on the home farm and remained there until he was 27 years of age. Fo^j three years he rented his father's farm and in 1906 bought the same, buying the interests of the other heirs. Some time afterward he sold that place and bought the farm where he is now living and on which he has made substantial improvements. Mr. Roth is a republican. He and his family are members of the Catholic Church and he is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America.

Feb. 12, 1895, Charles E. Roth was united in marriage to Mary Krumm, who was bom in this county, and to this union eight children have been born : Louis, Odessa, Helen, Cyril, Frank, Elf reda, Edward and

Mary G. The first of these children, Louis Roth, named in honor of his grandfather, was born on a farm in Lebanon township, this county, Feb. 9, 1896. On June 11, 1917, he enlisted in the navy and is still serving, having during the period of this service had a quite interesting experience, including several trips across the Atlantic and cruises to different points. Mrs. Mary Roth was born in Lebanon township, in 1875, daughter of George and Anna (Zeller) Krumm, the latter of whom was born in Clear Creek township, and both of whom are now deceased. George Krumm was born in Germany and came to this country with his sister Zera (Larntz) about 1850, and later settled on a farm in Lebanon township, where after his marriage Mr. Krumm continued to reside, he and his wife spending the remainder of their lives there.

Captain Lee Thomas Sites was born in Lamine township, Cooper County, Oct. 13, 1856. His father, Chester P. Sites, was a native of Virginia, born about 1836. He came to Boonville with his father and mother about 1841 or 1842 and built a log house on the corner of Sixth and Morgan Streets, Boonville, where now stands the garage of Brownfield and Meyers. The grandfather of Captain Sites was J. P. Sites, who manufactured, in early days at Boonville, rifles and guns for the fortyniners who sought the gold fields of California. About ten years ago in the mountains of Colorado the barrel of a gun from which the stock had rotted away was found. Upon it was the name "J. P. Sites." The finding of this gun barrel attracted considerable attention and upon inquiry it was found to have been made in Boonville and was evidently lost by a forty-niner in his trip across the mountains.

Captain Sites is the owner of 965 acres of the best land in Lamine township and has lived in his present residence about 28 years, and only about a quarter of a mile from where he was born. He owns a part of the land originally owned by his father. All his life has been spent in Lamine township. Captain Sites has never been a candidate for office and in answer to that question said "he never had s^nse enough" but his possessions demonstrate that he is abundantly able to take care of his interests - a trait that might well be emulated by office seekers.

Captain Sites was married in 1878 to Victorine Kinchiloe, who departed this life Oct. 7, 1910. There were born of that marriage three girls, Jessie, Stella and Maude, and two sons, Lee and John Captain Sites was married the second time Jan. 14, 1918, to Mrs. Laura Farris whose maiden name was Laura Smith. Captain Sites has been engaged in the steamboat business off and on since '73. He has been the owner of sev- eral boats and the builder of many. He is one of the foremost citizens of the county and has been prominent in every progressive and civic movement in his section. One of the largest, most successful and prominent farmers of Cooper County, he is nevertheless modest and retiring.

During the World War he was active in local war work and was a leader in Liberty Loan drives in his township. He is a member of the Christian church, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Modern Woodmen of America. He is a director in the Boonville National Bank.

John C. Muntzel, a well-known and successful dealer in live stock at Boonville, was born in Cooper County, a member of one of the county's pioneer families, and has lived here all his life, having been successfully engaged in farming until his removal about 10 years ago to Boonville, where he has since been quite extensively engaged in the sale of live stock, giving particular attention to the buying and selling of mules. He was born on a farm in Clarks Fork township, Nov. 23, 1874, son of Daniel and Minnie (Kaune) Muntzel, the former of whom is still living on his farm in that township, the owner of more than two hundred acres of land.

Daniel Muntzel was born in Hanover, Aug., 1834, and was but a boy when he came to this country with his parents, Peter Muntzel and wife, who settled in Missouri and became substantial members of the community. Daniel Muntzel's wife died in Jan., 1912, at the age of 73 years. Of the eight children born to Daniel Muntzel and wife and of whom John C. was the youngest, all are living but two.

Reared on the home farm in Clarks Fork township, John C. Muntzel received his schooling in the schools of that neighborhood and grew up to the life of the farm, early undertaking farming on his own account, and remained at home until 1906, when he moved to the old Earnhardt farm, which he had bought and there remained until 1909, when he sold out and moved to Boonville. While he was engaged in farming, Mr. Muntzel owned and improved two farms in this county, increasing their value and selling to advantage and has long been recognized as one of the progressive citizens of the county. He is independent in his political views. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias at Boonville and his wife is a member of Baptist Church.

Nov. 28, 1912, John C. Muntzel was united in marriage to Lavinia Steele, who also was born in Clarks Fork township, Feb. 22, 1884, daughter of John and Jane Steele, well-known residents of that township. Mr. and Mrs. Muntzel reside at 743 Sixth street, Boonville, and have a very pleasant home.

George Bail, proprietor of an excellent farm in Palestine township is one of the substantial farmers and stockmen in that section of Cooper County. He was born in Boonville Aug. 27, 1861, son of Meirad and Gertrude (Stegney) Bail, who in 1873 moved from that city to a farm in Palestine township, the place now owned and occupied by their son, George, and there established their home.

Having been but 12 years of age when his parents moved from Boonville to the farm in Palestine township, George Bail completed his schooling in the schools of that neighborhood and early became acquainted with the details of farm life. He continued farming there until he was 25 years of age when, in 1886, he went to California, remaining there for two years. In 1888 he returned home and began farming with his brother, renting a farm in partnership, and in 1895, he bought the old home place and has since resided there. Since taking possession of the place Mr. Bail has made extensive improvements. He is the owner of 350 acres of land and in addition to his general farming gives considerable attention to the raising of high grade live stock. Mr. Bail is an independent republican. His parents were among the organizers of the Evangelical church in that neighborhood and he has ever remained a faithful supporter of the same.