Henry County, Missouri - Biographical sketches, 1919 (part 11 of 17)

Harry P. Smith, of the firm of Smith & Graham, leading furniture dealers and undertakers of Ux'ich, Missouri, and mayor of Urich, is a native son of Henry County. He was born in Bogard township, this county, December 21, 1871, and is a son of William L. and Selina (Dewberry) Smith. The father was a native of western New York, born in 1823, and his wife was a native of England, who came to America with her uncle and Rasho Black when she was fifteen years of age. The father died in March, 1881, and the mother died in January, 1911, and the father is buried in Grant Cemetery in Cass County, Missouri. Mrs. Smith's remains were interred in Urich Cemetery. The Smith family settled in Henry County shortly after the Civil War, locating in Bogard township. The father was a plasterer by trade and after coming to this county he worked at his trade at intervals. He served for six years in the United States Navy and during the Civil War he served in the Union Army, being a member of Company F, 78th Regiment Illinois Infantry. During the course of his military service he participated in many important battles and campaigns, among which might be mentioned Sherman's march to the sea. After the close of the war he was mustered out of service by general order of the war department, June 7, 1865. To William L. and Salina (Dewberry) Smith were born the following children: Mrs. Maria Helms, Creighton, Missouri; G. R., Greencastle, Indiana; Edward C, deceased; C. F., farmer in Bogard township; Mrs. Susie Depew, Urich, Missouri; Harry P., the subject of this sketch; Albert E., died in 1896, and Mark D., farmer in Bogard township.

Harry P. Smith was reared to manhood on the home farm in Henry County and received his education in the public schools. He began his mercantile career in Urich iii the confectionary business, which he followed for three years. He was then clerk in a dry goods store about three years in Urich, and then in partnership with Charles L. Graham, he bought out the furniture and undertaking business of Ray & Clarey. This was in 1911, and he has successfully been engaged in that business since that time.

E. Graham, a daughter of James L. and Irene (Brooks) Graham. A sketch of Mr. Graham appears in this volume. Mr. Smith is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Knights and Ladies of Security. He is one of the substantial and progressive business men of Henry County and stands high in the community. Mr. Smith has served as alderman of Urich for two terms and is now filling the post of mayor of the city, serving his second term in this office.

Charles L. Graham, well known real estate dealer of Urich, and a member of the firm of Smith & Graham, furniture dealers and undertaking, is a native of Henry County and a member of one of the well-known pioneer families of this section of Missouri. Mr. Graham was born in Bogard township, Henry County, February 17, 1872, and is a son of James L. and Irene (Brooks) Graham, both natives of Missouri. The father was one of the pioneer settlers of Henry County, locating in Bogard township at a very early day. He was prominent in local affairs and during his time was considered one of the successful farmers and stockmen of this county. To James L. and Irene (Brooks) Graham were born the following children: Mrs. Mary Lawrence, resides on the home place; B. S., Urich, Missouri; Charles L., the subject of this sketch; Amanda, now wife of H. B. Smith, Urich, Missouri.

Charles L. Graham was reared in Henry County and spent his early life on the farm. He received his early education in the public schools and for a number of years followed farming and stock raising, later he engaged in clerking in a store in Urich. He then entered the real estate, loan and insurance business and for a number of years has been successfully identified in that line of industry. In 1912 he entered the furniture and undertaking business in partnership with H. P. Smith and since that time he has successfully been engaged in that line of endeavor, in addition to his real estate, loan and insurance operations.

Mr. Graham was united in marriage July 20, 1903, with Miss Nannie Sadler, a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Terrill) Sadler, natives of Appleton City, Missouri. Her father now resides at Urich, Missouri, and the mother is dead, having passed away in 1904, and her remains are interred in the cemetery at Appleton City, Missouri. To Mr. and Mrs. Graham have been born the following children : Leonard, Rolla, Scott and Henry E.

County. He always stands ready to co-operate with and support any commendable enterprise, having for its object the development or betterment of his town or county.

George C. Herrold, owner and proprietor of the George C. Herrold Hardware Company at Urich, Missouri, is one of the progressive business men of Henry County. Mr. Herrold was born in Knoxville, Illinois, in 1877 and is a son of T. C. and Violetta (Biggerstoff ) Herrold. The father was a native of Indiana and during the excitement attending the discovery of gold in California he made the trip overland. In 1872 he settled in Illinois and some years later removed to Iowa. In 1899 he came to Missouri, settling in Bogard township, Henry County. He now resides at Urich at the advanced age of eighty-six years.

To C. C. and Violetta (Biggerstoff) Herrold were born the following children: Mrs. J. B. Hollister, whose husband is now a first lieutenant in the United States Army; George C, the subject of this sketch. By a former marriage to Melvina Cherrington there were born to C. C. Herrold the following children: Henry, deceased; Daniel, John, Emma, Rachel, Marshall, Ida, Ada and Nettie.

George C. Herrold was educated in the public schools at Afton, Iowa, and when a boy began working in a hardware store at Altona, Iowa, and later worked in the hardware store at Larimer, Iowa. He came to Urich, Missouri, in 1899. He was engaged in farming for some years and in 1913 engaged in the hardware business at Urich, where he has since been engaged in business. Mr. Herrold carries a complete line of hardware, and is one of the leading dealers in Henry County.

Mr. Herrold was united in marriage September 20, 1902, with Mrs. Sallie M. Cheek, a daughter of Frank and Elizabeth (Bradford) Winkler, of Creighton, Missouri. To Mr. and Mrs. Herrold has been born one son, Harold C. Mr. Herrold is a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

J. H. Nuckles. - Every town not only in Missouri but elsewhere depends for its success upon the energy, capability and enterprise of certain men. One of the leading industries not only of Urich but of other towns in Missouri too numerous to mention is the Hurley Lumber Company, and wherever the Hurley Lumber Company is found is a recognized factor in the commercial and industrial development of that locality. Their business at Urich is no exception, unless of the possibility of it being above the standard. J. H. Nuckles, who represents the Hurley Lumber Company here, is a native of Missouri. He was bom in Bates County in 1866 and is a son of J. B. Nuckles, an early settler of western Missouri, who is a native of that part of Virginia which is now West Virginia. The father was engaged in farming and stock raising in Bates County until 1887. He then went to Appleton City, Missouri, where for four years he was engaged in the lumber business. He then removed to Brownington and for four years was engaged in a similar enterprise. He then went to Urich, took charge of the Hurley Lumber Company's local affairs, representing them until 1890. A few years after that he retired. He died in 1907. He was a man well known in this locality, prominent in lodge circles, being a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. His wife survived him until June 29, 1915, when she too passed to the great beyond. They were the parents of the following children: Mrs. Minnie Curran; Mrs. Libbie Garrison, deceased; John H., the subject of this sketch; Mrs. Minta Blanchard, Dallas, Texas; J. R., Osceola, Missouri; Fannie Fraley, Vogue, Kansas; T. O., Creighton, Missouri; Mrs. Nessie Littlejohn, Meyronne, Canada; and two who died in infancy.

J. H. Nuckles was united in marriage in June, 1892, with Miss Anna Scarife, a daughter of Thomas B. and Mary Ann (Kent) Scarife, both natives of England, and now reside at Monticello, Nebraska. To J. H. Nuckles and wife have been born the following children : Kent B., Evelyn, Madge, John Raymond and Shirley N.

Mr. Nuckles affiliates fraternally with the time honored Masonic Lodge and also holds membership with the Modem Woodmen of America. He and his family are progressive members of the community and the kind of citizens that are worth while.

George M. Stout. - The Stout stock farm in the southwestern part of Fairview township is admirably adapted for the purpose of raising large numbers of live stock. This farm consists of 480 acres in one body, well equipped with good buildings, the large farm residence of nine rooms being located on a high point of land which overlooks the entire ranch. Although Mr. Stout has been in possession of this splendid place for but a short period of nine years he has the place well fenced and in fine condition, and is constantly making improvements. In addition to the stock farm Mr. Stout owns a finely improved tract of 160 acres which he has recently purchased and which is situated near the town of Deepwater, where he intends to make his home in the near future. The Stout farm is endowed with rich pasturage and is well watered with a flowing stream. Mr. Stout keeps from 150 to 200 head of cattle on the place each year and during the winter of 1917-1918 he fed 100 head of prime cattle for the markets. He also raises over 300 head of hogs annually. During the past spring and summer he has completed the erection of a new barn 40x50 feet in dimension, all of the work being done by himself and his sons. The entire farm is fenced with the best of woven wire fencing material and shows all the ear marks of a progressive farmer and stockman. Mr. Stout is also engaged in the buying and shipping of grain at Deepwater.

George M. Stout was born June 2, 1866, in Tazewell County, Illinois, near the city of Pekin, and is the son of George W. and Eliza Bailey Stout, natives of Licking County, Ohio. Each went to Tazewell County, Illinois, with their parents in the early pioneer days and were there married.

George W. Stout was a soldier in the Union Army and served during the Civil War. He enlisted in an Illinois regiment of volunteer infantry and fought throughout the conflict. He died in 1906, only lacking seventeen days of attaining the age of ninety. Eliza Stout, his wife, died in 1907, aged seventy-five years. They were parents of ten children, seven of whom are living: Benjamin C, Nevada, Missouri; John H., Guymond, Oklahoma; Amos, Burlington, Iowa; Mrs. Maggie Lux, Parsons, Kansas; Mrs. Sarah J. Pierce, Pratt, Kansas; Mrs. Clarinfla B. McNett, Nevada, Missouri; George M., subject of this review. George W. Stout removed to Missouri from Illinois in 1881 and settled at Shelbina, Missouri, where both he and his wife died and are buried in the Shelbina Cemetery.

George M. Stout followed agricultural pursuits in Shelby County, Missouri, until 1909, when he came to Henry County, and purchased his large farm of 480 acres. In the spring of 1918 he bought a finely improved place of 160 acres near Deepwater in Fairview township.

George M. Stout was married in 1893 to Miss Emma Thomas, who was born January 27, 1877, in Adams County, Illinois, the daughter of William and Frances (Kessler) Thomas, who located in Shelbina, Missouri. Ten children have been born to George M. and Emma Stout, as follow: Ruth, born November 1, 1893; Roy, born August 26, 1896; Retha, born December 27, 1897 ; Ralph, born May 30, 1899 ; Russell, born August 16, 1901; Reason, born August 27, 1903; Ruby, born August 16, 1905; Rachel, born December 30, 1909; Edith Reva, born September 20, 1912; Reta, born July 12, 1915. Ruth Stout married Frank Davis, who resides on a farm one mile south of the Stout homestead, and has two children, Georgia and Lola. Retha married Burt McGhuey and lives in Iowa, has one child. Alberta.

During the past season of 1918 Mr. Stout has harvested 150 acres of wheat which yielded 18.5 bushels to the acre. He has harvested forty acres of oats which yield 26.5 bushels to the acre. Fifty acres of corn are in fine growing condition and promise a great yield.

Mr. Stout is a Democrat and he generally takes a warm interest in matters political and civil. For the past nine years he has served as school director of his district. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, while Mrs. Stout and the children are Baptists.

Julius H. Schweer, assistant cashier of the Bank of Blairstown, is a native of Missouri and belongs to a pioneer family of this State. Mr. Schweer was born in Franklin County, January 24, 1862, a son of John H. and Katherine E. (Horstman) Schweer, both natives of Germany. The father came to America to escape the military system of Germany, and for many years was engaged in the mercantile business at Shotwell, Franklin County. He was prominently identified with that section and held the office of postmaster, justice of the peace and other positions of trust. He died in 1899 and his wife passed away two years later, and their remains are buried in the cemetery at Windsor. The following children were born to John H. and Katherine E. (Horstman) Schweer: Mrs. Elizzie Henneke, Gerald, Missouri; Mrs. Emma Steineker, Gerald, Missouri; Mrs. Carrie Martin, Johnson County, Missouri; G. W., Clinton, Missouri; Julius. H., the subject of this sketch; John W., died at the age of fifty-two years; Mrs. Kate A. Farrar, Windsor, Missouri; Henry A., Jamesport, Missouri; George H., Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Julius H. Schweer was educated in the public schools of Franklin County, and succeeded his father in the mercantile business at Shotwell, where he remained until 1892. He then came to Blairstown, continuing the mercantile business there until 1901, when he entered the employ of the Bank of Blairstown as assistant cashier, which position he still holds.

The Bank of Blairstown was organized in 1891 with the following officers, G. R. Hindman, president ; R. 0. Atkins, vice-president, and H. R. McCutcheon, cashier. The capital stock was $10,000, the same as it is now. The present officers of the bank are : R. O. Atkins, president ; J. C. McCalmon, vice-president; W. R. Phipps, cashier, and Julius H. Schweer,

Mr. Schweer was married September 29, 1887, to Miss Dora E. Roedder of Franklin County, Missouri. She is a daughter of John F. and Margaret (Rapps) Roedder, both now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Schweer have been born three children: William, died in infancy, and Otto F., born in Franklin County April 20, 1891. He received his education in Blairstown High School and the Clinton High School and is a graduate of the Missouri Valley College at Marshall, Missouri, and is now serving in the United States Army as quartermaster sergeant; and Ida D., a graduate of the Clinton High School and a member of the class of 1918 of the Warrensburg State Normal School ; resides at home with her parents.

Mr. Schweer is a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Modem Woodmen of America. He is one of the substantial men of Henry County, and the Schweer family stands high in the community. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church and a Republican in politics.

W. R. Phipps, a well known banker and financier of Blairstown, Missouri, cashier of the Bank of Blairstown, is a native son of Missouri and comes from a pioneer family of this State. Mr. Phipps was born in Johnson County January 5, 1869, and is a son of David and Cornelia J. (Wall) Phipps. The mother was a daughter of Dr. R. Z. R. Wall, one of the very early pioneer doctors of Johnson County, who located in Chilhowee township in 1839, and had much to do with the early history of Johnson County, not only from the standpoint of a physician, but a pioneer settler and citizen, who had a great influence in molding the sentiments and shaping the destiny of western Missouri in the early days. David Phipps, father of W. R. Phipps, settled in Johnson County, Missouri, in 1866. He came from Indiana and was a potent factor in the early history of Chilhowee township, Johnson County. After a well spent and useful life he died here in 1888, and his widow now resides in Chilhowee township, Johnson County. They were the parents of the following children : Mrs. Ida Rice, Chilhowee township, Johnson County; W. R., the subject of this sketch; Oscar D., Rose Hill township, Johnson County, Missouri; Josie, died in 1894; Walter, lives in Chilhowee township, Johnson County; Albert, died in 1901, and Harry, who is engaged in the mercantile business at Denton, Missouri.

course in the business college at Sedalia. In 1889 he engaged in the hardware business at Blairstown, and continued in that line of mercantile enterprise for about two years. In 1893 Mr. Phipps became assistant cashier of the Bank of Blairstown and in 1901 became cashier, a position which he has since held. Mr. Phipps has had a long and varied experience in the banking world, and possesses the requisite qualifications of a successful banker. He is conservative enough for safety and progressive enough for all purposes of modem banking. For a number of years he has been a student of the difficult problems of finance and banking, and his idea of a modern, successful bank is an institution that is big enough to accommodate its customers and not too big to appreciate them. There is a lesson in banking for the average banker in Mr. Phipp's philosophy.

Mr, Phipps was married in January, 1899, to Miss Mary L. Orr, a daughter of Rev. Z. T. Orr, formerly of Blairstown, now of Lock Springs, Missouri. Her father was a prominent Presbyterian divine and her mother is deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Phipps have an adopted child, Martha. Mr. Phipps is a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Modern Woodmen of America. He is prominent in Henry County and he and Mrs. Phipps rank among the leading people of their community. He is an elder in the Presbyterian Church at Blairstown, Missouri.

H. C. Whitaker, the well known cashier of the Farmers Bank of Blairstown, is a native of Missouri. He was born at Weaubleau in Hickory County, October 28, 1889, a son of Rev. John and Emeline (Ernest) Whitaker, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of Kentucky.

Rev. John Whitaker served in the Union Army during the Civil War and afterwards came to Missouri. He taught a private college at Weaubleau for thirty years. This college was under the direction of the Christian Church. Reverend Whitaker was not only prominent in educational and religious work, but also took a leading part in politics. He represented St. Clair County in the Legislature and represented Hickory County two terms in that body. He was a Republican, and the nominee of that party for Congress from the Seventh District. Notwithstanding that this was a strong Democratic district, Mr. Whitaker lacked but a few votes of being elected. He died in January, 1909, at Weaubleau, and his wife preceded him in death about five years. They were the parents of the following children : O. B., who lives in Hickory County, Missouri, and is now a member of the Missouri State Legislature; Minnie, married Ed Buller and is now deceased; Unie, died in childhood; S. W., cashier of the State Bank of Brownington, Missouri; J. S., lumberman, Walnut Grove, Missouri; Jessie, deceased; Effie, wife of Cyrus Paxton, Strome, Alberta, Canada; and H. C, the subject of this sketch.

H. C. Whitaker was reared in Hickory County and educated in the Weaubleau Christian College, where he was graduated in 1906. He then taught school at Weaubleau and Brownington for two years, after which he was engaged in the lumber business in Oklahoma for one year. He was then assistant cashier of the Bank of Brownington until April 15, 1911, when he accepted the cashiership of the Farmers Bank of Blairstown and has served in that capacity to the present time.

The Farmers Bank of Blairstown was organized November 20, 1909, with a capital stock of $10,000. Its first oflficers were: W. W. Johnson, president; W. R. Farnsworth, vice-president; and J. S. Stover, cashier. The present officers are W. W. Johnson, president ; C. L. Farnsworth, vicepresident, and H. C. Whitaker, cashier. The Farmers Bank is a substantial institution and has had a gradual growth since its organization. Its officers are safe and conservative financiers. To illustrate the increase in business of this bank the deposits of March 7, 1911, were $19,803.14, and on June 28, 1918, the deposits had increased to $90,717.53.

Mr. Whitaker was united in marriage March 20, 1912, with Miss Ruby Shepperd, a daughter of D. E. and Susie Fisher Shepperd, of Blairstown, Missouri. Mr. and Mrs. Shepperd reside at Blairstown, where the father is successfully engaged in the automobile, implement and hardware business. To Mr. and Mrs. Whitaker has been born one son, Valgean.

D. E. Shepperd, a well known hardware merchant and automobile dealer of Blairstown, Missouri, is a native of Ohio. He was born at Moxahala, Perry County, Ohio, December 23, 1865, and is a son of G. W. and Martha J. Shepperd, both natives of Ohio. The father was born November 27, 1841, and died April 25, 1905, and his wife departed this life several years before the death of her husband. She died in 1868 when D. E. was about three years of age. The following children were born to G. W. and Martha J. Shepperd : Mrs. W. H. Larick, Dally, Iowa ; Mrs. M. Penman, Glouster, Oklahoma, and D. E., the subject of this sketch. After the mother died the father was again married and two sons and a daughter were born to that union: W. B., McKeesport, Pennsylvania; C. S., Moxahala, Ohio, and Mrs. Alice Stallsmith, who died at Zanesville, Ohio, in May, 1916.

the public schools. When he was twenty-one years of age he went to Pittsburg, Kansas, where he was employed about five months, when he went to Kansas City, Missouri, where he entered the employ of I. D. Clapp, a wholesale commission dealer. After remaining there about a year he came to Blairstown and engaged in the harness business. A few years later he added a hardware stock and later added the automobile business. He is one of the successful merchants of Blairstown and has built up a large trade. In 1906 he bought the J. H. Schweer building, where his hardware stored is located. In addition to his other business enterprises he is now erecting a large garage.

Mr. Shepperd was united in marriage in February, 1893, to Miss Susan Fisher, a daughter of C. S. and Martha J. Fisher, Henry County pioneers. They settled in Big Creek township at a very early date. The father was a native of Missouri and the mother of Virginia. C. S. Fisher died in 1903 and Mrs. Fisher resides at Blairstown with their daughter, Mrs. Shepperd. To Mr. and Mrs. Shepperd have been bom the following children: Ruby L., the wife of W. H. Whitaker of Blairstown, a sketch of whom appears in this volume; Lelia and Ronda, both of whom reside at home with their parents.

Mr. Shepperd served as postmaster of Blairstown for nine years, receiving his appointment from President Roosevelt. He is a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Modern Woodmen of America. Mr. Shepperd has been successful in his business undertaking. When he came to Blairstown he only had $500 capital, and today he is one of the well-to-do men of Henry County, and in addition to his prosperous business institution, he and his wife are the owners of 360 acres of valuable land in Big Creek toAvnship. He is one of Henry County's substantial citizens.

J. S. Pollock, a prominent merchant of Blairstown, Missouri, and senior member of the firm known as the Blairstovm Mercantile Company, is a native of Missouri. He was born in Chilhowee, Johnson County, December 27, 1872, and is a son of W. P. and Susan M. (McFarland) Pollock. W. P. Pollock was a native of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and an early settler in Johnson County. Susan M. McFarland was born in Centerview, Missouri. and belongs to one of the oldest pioneer families of Johnson County. Her mother was a daughter of Levi Simpson, who was prominent in the early history of Johnson County and Simpson township of that county was named in his honor. W. P. Pollock and Susan M. McFarland were married in Johnson County in 1869 and after nearly fifty years of wedded life they reside at Chilhowee. This venerable couple are the parents of the following children: James, Chilhowee, Missouri; J. S., the subject of this sketch; C. W., Chilhowee ; Arthur, a merchant, Chilhowee ; Rev. L. N., Arrow Rock, Missouri; Mrs. E. B. Strasburg, Strasburg, Missouri; Mildred, Kansas City, Missouri; and W. P., Jr., Mullinville, Kansas.

J. S. Pollock was reared in Johnson County and educated in the public schools and the State Normal School at Warrensburg. He began his mercantile career when a boy as a clerk in the store of G. K. Christopher at Chilhowee. He worked for two months without pay and then his employer started him at $10,00 a month. This store changed hands a number of times and young Pollock remained with the store each time until it was finally discontinued. In 1896 J. S. Pollock, in partnership with his father, opened a general store at Chilhowee and continued until 1898, when, after disposing of his business, J. S. Pollock went to Butler and was with the McKibbon Mercantile Company about one year, when he resigned and came to Blairstown. Here he entered the employ of J. N. Schweer, and after remaining here three years he accepted a position with the Holden Mercantile Company at Holden, Missouri. One year later he returned to Blairstown and has been connected with the Blairstown Mercantile Company ever since. This institution was organized as a stock company by J. H. Schweer in 1904 and incorporated the same year with a capital stock of $8,000.00. The business is now owned by J. S. and C. W. Pollock. This is one of the important mercantile houses of Henry County. They carry a complete line of general merchandise, including groceries, dry goods, etc. It is a popular trading place and has a good business.

Mr. Pollick was united in marriage August 16, 1900, with Miss Nellie Cobb, a daughter of Rev. W. B. Cobb and Elizabeth (Davis) Cobb of Butler. Rev. W. B. Cobb was born in Lafayette County, Missouri, April 13, 1844, and died July 16, 1916. He was a son of James M. Cobb, a pioneer of Lafayette County, who was prominent in the early day affairs of that county. Mrs. Pollock has a half brother and a half sister living: Mrs. J. H. Hereford, Kansas City, Missouri; and W. T. Cobb, LaMonte, Missouri. To Mr. and Mrs. Pollock has been born one daughter, Virginia Elizabeth. Mr. Pollock has an extensive acquaintance in Henry and adjoining counties and he is that type of man who makes friends for the old reason, that he is a good loyal friend himself.

Thomas P. Prouse. - In the southeastern part of Clinton township' are some splendid farms, nearly all of which have been built up and created by their owners. It is a picturesque and fertile region, bordering on the Deepwater River, the banks of which are heavily timbered. The Prouse farm of eighty-four acres is among the best in the country and very fertile. Mr. Prouse is owner of four tracts of land, eighty-four acres, forty acres, sixty acres and eighty acres, making a total of 264 acres, besides a six acre tract. He has resided upon his home place since 1879 and rented the land during his first year's residence. He then paid $1,700 for 140 acres, and has placed all of the existing improvements upon his farms. It was necessary for him to clear away considerable timber before he could place the land in cultivation. He paid $1,500 for his home tract of eighty-four acres and $900 for forty acres. This land is now worth $75 an acre and Mr. Prouse is in very comfortable circumstances. Much of the land is underlaid with coal and much coal has been mined from the Prouse land.

Thomas P. Prouse was born in Ross County, Ohio, November 10, 1851. He is the son of Thomas and Barbara (Kellar) Prouse, both of whom were born and reared in Ohio. They went to Edgar County, Illinois, in 1855, and after a residence of fourteen years there they came to Henry County and settled on the Deepwater, where Thomas died in 1874. To Thomas and Barbara Prouse were born seven children, three of whom are living: Thomas P., subject of this review; George, a farmer in Clinton township; Daniel, Denver, Colorado.

Thomas P. Prouse was married October 15, 1879, to Serilda Moyer, born December 25, 1861, in Illinois, the daughter of Solomon (born 1830, died 1893) and Elizabeth Moyer (born November 24, 1831, died April 9, 1905), natives of Kentucky who came from Illinois to Henry County, Missouri, in 1870. Solomon Moyer died near Osceola, St. Clair County, Missouri. Five children were born to Thomas P. and Serilda Prouse, as follow: James A., living on the home place, married Maggie Raper and has one child, Percy Thomas Prouse; Mrs. Callie Lee Schmidt, Clinton township; Celeste, deceased; Effie, wife of Isaac Arnold, living in Oklahoma, has three children, Thomas Jefferson, Gladys and Beulah,' Nora, married Forrest Caldwell and has three children, Paulline, Edna and Kenneth Forrest.

this great county. She and Mr. Prouse have seen the country emerge from a wilderness state to become one of the thriving and richest portions of the great state of Missouri, and best of all they have progressed and prospered with their home county. Mr. and Mrs. Prouse are members of the Evangelical Church and are kindly, hospitable folk of the true Missouri type, and have a host of friends and well wishers in Henry County.

John J. Munsterman, a well known and prosperous farmer and stockman of White Oak township, is a native of Illinois. He was born in Montgomery County in 1861, a son of Anthony and Elizabeth (Wucherpfennig) Munsterman, natives of Germany. The father came to this country when he was sixteen years old and Elizabeth Wucherpfennig came to America with her parents when she was five years of age. They both died in Illinois, the father at Edwardsville in 1871 and the mother at Raymond in 1918. They were the parents of the following children: John J., the subject of this sketch; Mrs. Anna Walpe, Clinton, Missouri; Mrs. Mary Brockamp, deceased; Mrs. Caroline Tonsor, Monroe, Missouri; Caroline, died in infancy, and Mrs. Louise Crockwell, St. Peters, Missouri. By a former marriage to Caroline Brockamp the following children were born to Anthony Munsterman : Henry, Theodore, Josephine, Katherine and Caroline, all deceased. After the death of Mr. Munsterman his widow married Conrad Weller, and to this union the following children were born: Mrs. Minnie Poggenpohl, Henry, Joseph, Mrs. Elizabeth Back and Mrs. Rosa Eickoff, all of whom reside at Raymond, Illinois.

John J. Munsterman was educated in the public schools of Montgomery County, Illinois, and was engaged in farming there from 1881 to 1903, when he came to Henry County and located one mile west of Urich. He has a splendid farm of 450 acres with a good residence and other good farm buildings. The place presents a very attractive appearance and bears mute testimony on every hand of the thrift and industry of its owner.

Mr. Munsterman was united in marriage September 28, 1881, with Miss Catherine Brockamp, a daughter of John and Louisa (Lappe) Brockamp of Christian County, Illinois. Mrs. Munsterman was born in Illinois. Her parents both died in Christian County. To Mr. and Mrs. Munsterman have been born the following children: Mrs. Elizabeth Bergschneider, Urich, Missouri ; Mrs. Mary Weitekamp, Raymond, Montgomery County, Illinois; Joseph M., Urich, Missouri; Henry M., Urich, Missouri; Lawrence, Chnton; William, Urich; Rosa, Kansas City; Catherine and Luella, at home.

Mr. Munsterman is a progressive citizen and always one of the first to give his support to any worthy enterprise for the betterment or upbuilding of his county. He was one of the first advocates of the drainage district plan, and he and Mr. Hinote guaranteed the expense of the preliminary survey, which was the first actual step in the inauguration of this great drainage project that means so much to Henry County now, by which thousands of acres of otherwise practically worthless land has been reclaimed. The Munsterman family are all members of the Catholic Church. In politics Mr. Munsterman is a Democrat.

William E. Long, a substantial farmer and stockman of White Oak township, is a native son of Henry County and a descendant of a pioneer family of Missouri. Mr. Long was born in Walker township February 17, 1871, a son of John and Louisa (Burgess) Long, both natives of Missouri, the former of Miller County and the latter of Pulaski. John Long was a captain in the Home Guards in Miller County during the Civil War. He organized a company after his two brothers, George and William, were killed by bushwhackers. Shortly after the Civil War he came to Henry County and bought land in Walker township for which he paid one dollar and twenty-five cents per acre. He was a successful farmer and stockman, and at the time of his death was a large land owner. He died in 1914, his wife having preceded him in death a number of years. She died in 1902 and their remains were buried in White Oak Cemetery. John and Louisa (Burgess) Long were the parents of the folowing children: George, who died in 1912; Mrs. Mollie Dunlap, Montrose, Missouri; William E., the subject of this sketch; Mrs. Rosa B. Harrison, Walker township, and Herman B., who resides on the home place.

William E. Long was reared on a farm and received his education in Camp Branch district school in Walker township. He started out in life for himself, farming rented land, when he was eighteen years of age. He moved onto his present farm which he rented at the time of his father's death. It contains 160 acres of well improved, productive land four miles southwest of Urich, which was formerly known as the James Roe McDaniel farm. The place is well improved with a good eight room farm residence and commodious and convenient barns and other buildings. Mr. Long is extensively engaged in the stock business as well as general farming.

and Mary A. (Mullen) Harness, both now deceased. The father was born in St. Charles, Missouri, and died in 1912, and the mother was a native of Kentucky and died in 1896. They came to Henry County in 1858. William and Mary A. Harness were the parents of the following children: William A., La Due, Missouri ; A. L., Kansas City, Missouri ; Joseph, Montrose, Missouri; Sterling, Altona, Missouri; H. M., Walker township; Mrs. Mary Hackney, Urich, Missouri; Mrs. Sarah Wirt, Preston, Kansas, and Frances Jennings, Maxwell, Kansas.

To Mr. and Mrs. Long have been born four children, as follow: Mrs. Inez Graef , White Oak township ; James Edward ; Chester Lee, and Ermel Hadley, residing at home.

Theodore E. Hall, a progressive farmer and stockman of Honey Creek township, is a native of Henry County. He was born in Bogard township in 1877, a son of A. J. and Juliza J. (Comett) Hall, both natives of Missouri. The father was born in Moniteau County and the mother in Jackson County. A. J. Hall was a Confederate veteran and served throughout the Civil War. He came to Henry County shortly after the close of the war and located in Bogard township, where he now resides. To A. J. and Juliza J. (Cornett) Hall were born the following children: Mrs. Ida May Hudson, Urich, Missouri ; Van W., Urich, Missouri ; Mrs. Lula May Elliott, Moniteau County, Missouri; T. E. and E. W., twins; T. E., the subject of this sketch and E. W., a farmer and stockrnan in Honey Creek township.

T. E. Hall was reared in Henry County and received his education in the public schools. He remained at home with his father until he was twenty-eight years of age. He now owns a valuable farm one-half mile north of Hartwell, which contains 340 acres. This was formerly known as the John W. Page place and is regarded as one of the best farms in western Henry County.

Mr. Hall was married in 1905 to Miss Bessie Page, a daughter of John W. Page of Big Creek township. Later the family moved to Honey Creek township, where the parents both died and their remains are buried in the Page Cemetery in Big Creek township. To Mr. and Mrs. Hall have been bom three children, two of whom are living: Florence May and Frances Lee, living; Bessie Ethel Hall, died January 8, 1910, buried at Norris Cemetery, Honey Creek township.

J. M. Patt, a well known farmer and stockman of White Oak township, is a native of Indiana. He was born in Tippecanoe County, Indiana, in 1850 and is a son of Jackson and Mary W. (Dunn) Patt, the former a native of Indiana and the latter of Kentucky. The father died about the time that J. M. was bom and the mother came to Cooper County, Missouri, in 1853, with the following children : Mary E., who was born August 8, 1839; Charles Richard, born December 23, 1841; William F., born April 28, 1844; Henry Clay, born December 24, 1846, and Jackson M., the subject of this sketch, born February 8, 1850. In 1854 the Patt family came to Henry County and located in White Oak township. A brother of the mother, Nathan Dunn, accompanied them.

J. M. Patt was reared to manhood in Henry County and received his education in the district schools. He has made his own way in life since he was fifteen years of age. He purchased his present place in 1882 and now owns 200 acres of valuable land, which is one of the best improved and prettiest places in western Henry County. The residence is situated on an elevation overlooking the surrounding country for a number of miles, which gives the place a very imposing appearance.

Mr. Patt was united in marriage March 9, 1871, to Miss Mattie L. Carver, a daughter of Noah and Nancy (Mclntire) Carver of White Oak township. They settled in Henry County in 1866 and the mother died here in 1868 and the father in 1885. They came from Iowa.

To Mr. and Mrs. Patt have been born eight children, as follow : Louella J., married James Sever, White Oak township ; Muzetta A., now the wife of William C. Sampson, White Oak township; Mary I., married Albert Barth, White Oak township; Ida F., married Alonzo Long, Walker township, and Fannie Geraldine, married Harvey Harness, Walker township; James Franklin Patt, lives in Bates County; Lee J., White Oak township, and Richard, White Oak township.

Mr. Patt has lived in White Oak township for sixty-three years and is one of the substantial pioneers of Henry County. He and his family are members of the Christian Church.

B. Adler, an extensive produce dealer of Clinton, Missouri, has been identified with the business interests of Clinton and Henry County for a number of years. Mr. Adler is a native of Germany, born in 1855, a son of Samuel and Regina Adler, both of whom are now deceased. Mr. Adler came to America in 1872 and first located at Charleston, South Carolina. Eight years later he went to Jacksonport, Arkansas. He remained there until 1881, when he came to Clinton, Missouri. He obtained employment here with a Mr. Hirst, who was engaged in the produce business, and a year later engaged in the huckstering business for himself, dealing in eggs, produce and hides. He was an absolute stranger to Clinton when he came here and really it was not his original intention to remain here when he stopped. He intended going to Iowa. Mr. Adler opened his first produce store in Clinton on the northwest corner of the public square and since that time has done business at different locations here and has been at his present location, 126 North Main street, about twelve yeai's. He owns this building, besides considerable other business and residence property in Clinton. He is probably the most extensive produce dealer in Clinton, and also deals in rubber, metal and other kindred products.

Mr. Adler was married December 15, 1884, with Miss Julia Kohner of Meridian, Mississippi, a daughter of Doctor Kohner. To Mr. and Mrs. Adler have been born two children: W. S., a member of the firm of B. Adler & Company, and Regina, a teacher in the public schools of Clinton.

Mr. Adler is a liberal, enterprising citizen and has the best interests of his city and county at heart. He is a liberal contributor to all patriotic causes and a staunch supporter of every movement for the up-building of Clinton and Henry County. He is one of the substantial citizens of this County.

T. L. Snodgrass, the well known florist of Clinton and proprietor of the Snodgrass greenhouses, is at the head of one of the interesting enterprises of Henry County. The Snodgrass greenhouses, which are located at 905 East Ohio street, is an extensive institution and a model of its kind. Here one finds the most modern equipment and the application of the best methods for the production of all kinds of flowers, bulbs and plants generally found in an up-to-date greenhouse. There are over 12,000 feet under glass. The product of this institution is not confined to Clinton and Henry County, but flowers are shipped from here over a large radius of country. Much credit is due Mr. Snodgrass for the development of this business. While he is thoroughly experienced in this line of work, having devoted about twenty-one years of his life to it, the Snodgrass greenhouses of Clinton dates its beginning only about seven years ago.

T. L. Snodgrass is a native Missourian. He was born in Cooper County in 1875 and is a son of S. F. and W. E. (Timms) Snodgrass, the former a native of Kentucky and the latter of Georgia. The father was a soldier in the Confederate army and served throughout the war. He died in 1915 and his remains were buried in Englewood Cemetery. His widow now resides at Clinton. They were the parents of the following children: T. L., the subject of this sketch; Etta, resides in Clinton; Lillie, married Walter Landaker ; S. 0., an engineer, Clinton, Missouri ; Minerva, married Jack Cound, Toledo, Ohio; Fannie and Carl, deceased.

Mr. Snodgrass received his education in the public schools at Clinton, Missouri, and attended Clinton Academy, when Professor Lamkin was principal. Since leaving school Mr. Snodgrass has practically devoted his life to the florist's business, and in his broad range of experience in this line of work, has covered every detail of the practical side of flower and plant culture of which he is making such a well merited success.

Mr. Snodgrass was married in 1913 to Mrs. Nona Cherry of Nevada, Missouri, and a daughter of Dudley and Lula (Thomas) Thomas. The father and the mother reside in Clinton. Mrs. Snodgrass has one sister, Daisy, now the wife of James Grant, and a brother, Taylor Thomas, who resides in Nevada, Missouri.

Samuel Biggs, a well known stock dealer of Clinton, Missouri, is a native of Henry County. He was born near Alberta in Bethlehem township, October 8, 1875. He is a son of John and Elizabeth (Arnold) Biggs, both natives of Kentucky, the former born in Rockcastle County, September 5, 1833, and the latter bom in Warren County, December 24, 1840, and now reside in Clinton, Missouri. John Biggs left his native State in 1849 and went to Illinois and in 1868 came to Missouri. John and Elizabeth (Arnold) Biggs were married in Illinois March 22, 1857, and the following children were bom to them: Mary, now the wife of Allen Faith, Clinton, Missouri; John; Jane, now the wife of John Ellis, Versailles; Ed B., Montrose, Missouri ; James and Charles, twins, died in infancy ; Laura, now the wife of Decatur Jennings, Kansas City, Missouri; S. D., lives at Buffalo, Kansas; Samuel, the subject of this sketch, and Minnie, married Horace Houtes.

Samuel Biggs was reared on a farm in Henry County and educated in the district schools. He engaged in farming, which he made his principal occupation until 1911, when he came to Clinton, and since that time has been engaged in buying and selling mules and cattle, and today is one of the extensive live stock dealers of the county. His operations are by

Mr. Biggs was united in marriage April 21, 1911, with Miss Oka McLane, a daughter of F. E. and Matilda F. (Wynn) McLane. The former was a native of Missouri and the latter of Indiana. The father died in 1909 and the mother now resides at Windsor. They were the parents of the following children : Stella, married R. E. Stiff, Boise City, Idaho ; Pearl, married Jack Oaks, Bates County, Missouri ; Oka, the wife of Samuel Biggs, the subject of this sketch ; Bert, Kansas City, Missouri ; Roy, Hot Springs, Arkansas ; Finis, Kansas City, Missouri ; Grover, Benton County, Missouri ; Ida, married Fred Gray, Calhoun, Missouri; May, married Joe Brodley, Pleasant Hill, Missouri; Ethel, married Grover Stone, Marshall, Missouri, and Ruby, Kansas City, Missouri.

Calvin Luallen, of the firm of Luallen & Tally, well known automobile dealers of Clinton, Missouri, is a native of Laclede County, Missouri. He was born in 1869, a son of Alex and Mary (Bilderbeck) Laullen, the former a native of Virginia and the latter of Ohio, both now deceased. The mother died in 1869 and the father departed this life in 1915. Calvin was the only child bom to his father's first marriage. By a second marriage of Alex Luallen the following children were born : Henry P., Laclede County, Missouri; Foster and Homer, deceased, and Elmer, who lives in Kansas City, Missouri ; and Lucy, now the wife of Garrett Scheer, Deepwater, Missouri.

Calvin Luallen was reared in Laclede County and educated in the public schools. He followed farming and stock raising and also bought and sold stock there until 1893, when he came to Henry County, locating near Mt. Zion. In 1913 he bought 170 acres three miles southeast of Clinton, and also owns 300 acres near Mt. Zion. Both places are well improved and are two of the valuable farms of Henry County. In 1916 Mr. Luallen engaged in the automobile business in Clinton in partnership with Mr. Tally. They specialize in handling the Buick car and also operate an automobile repair shop in connection with their sales garage.

Mr. Luallen was married in 1898 to Miss Emma Marsh of Mt. Zion, Henry County, a daughter of Henry and Elizabeth (Sutmiller) Marsh, both of whom are now deceased. The Marsh family were early settlers in the vicinity of Mt. Zion. Mrs. Luallen was one of the following children born to her parents: Henry, Kansas City, Missouri; John, Bushy- head, Oklahoma; Mary, the wife of Garrett Scheer, Mt. Zion, Missouri; Mrs. Caroline Hillegas, Twin Falls, Oklahoma, who is now deceased; and Emma, the wife of Calvin Luallen. To Mr. and Mrs. Luallen have been born three children : Fay, now a student at William Woods College, Fulton, Missouri; Clifford, and Dorris, at home.

Mr. and Mrs. Luallen reside on the home farm near Clinton. He holds membership in the Masonic Lodge and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. He is one of the progressive and substantial business men of Henry County.

Joshua Carney of White Oak township is one of the pioneers of Henry County, who has done his part in reclaiming this county from an unbroken plain and making of it one of the leading political subdivisions of the state of Missouri.

Mr. Carney was born in Pendleton County, Kentucky, April 4, 1832, a son of Thomas and Mary (Hunt) Carney, the former a native of Kentucky and the latter of Virginia. Joshua Carney and his mother left their Kentucky home in 1850 and went to Illinois. After spending two years in that State they came to Missouri, settling in Scotland County. Here they remained until the Civil War broke out. Joshua Carney being a Southern man, his sympathies were with the South and he enlisted in the Confederate Army, and after about a year of active campaign in behalf of the lost cause, in which he participated in five important battles in Missouri, he returned to civil life. In 1862 he went to Platte County, where he remained four years. He then settled in Johnson County, near Holden, and in 1869 came to Henry County. He settled on a farm in White Oak township, and for forty-nine years this place has been his home, and he has added acreage from time to time until he owned five hundred thirty-five acres, half of which is owned by his son, Robert, who owns three hundred acres of the home place. This is said to be one of the most productive farms in Henry County and Mr. Carney raises large quantities of corn, wheat and oats, and he is also one of the important cattle raisers of the county. Mr. Carney now owns two hundred acres. Robert and George W. own twenty acres in partnership.

Mr. Carney was united in marriage in 1854 to Miss Margaret Cline, a daughter of Peter and Katherine Cline of Scotland County. Mrs. Carney was born in Kentucky and died in White Oak township September 10, 1910. To Joshua Carney and wife were born the following children: Mrs. Eleanor Bell Godwin, deceased ; Mrs. Anna Hill, lives in Bates County ;

Jack S., lives at Urich, Missouri; Mrs. Sarah C. Gilbert, lives in Oklahoma; Mrs. Virginia Connor, Bates County; Dr. Ira, Blairstown, Missouri; Mary Elizabeth, resides at home; Robert Lee, at home; Emma, at home; George W., Walker township; and William L., Bates County.

Mr. Carney has observed many changes in Henry County during the forty-nine years of his residence here. When he came here all kinds of wild game, including deer, turkey, geese and ducks, were plentiful. There were no roads and the country was unfenced, wire fences being unheard of at that time. Transportation in the county depended upon the freighter who hauled goods from Warrensburg or Sedalia. The present towns, the most important ones of today, were mere hamlets or settlements and others were not thought of. There were no railroads in the county. He has lived to see all this change, and when he reflects on all the development and progress that has been made in the short period of less than half a century, he marvels at the wonders of the accomplishment of man.

Mr. Carney has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, for over forty-five years, and it may be truthfully said of him that he is living a Christian life and is one of Henry County's most valuable citizens.

H. N. Kibbey, a prominent merchant of Clinton, Missouri, is a native of Illinois. He was born in Abington in 1869, a son of W. H. and Mary (Briggs) Kibbey, both natives of Clinton County, Ohio. W. H. Kibbey served in the 17th Ohio Infantry for three and one-half years during the Civil War. He was engaged in the mercantile business in Illinois after the war and later went to Nebraska, and in 1894 came to Clinton, Missouri, where he was engaged in the restaurant business for nine years. He died at Clinton in 1906 and his wife departed this life in 1916, and their remains were buried in the Englewood Cemetery. They were the parents of the following children: H. N., the subject of this sketch; H. W., an engineer, lives at Kearney, Nebraska ; and Etta, now the wife of William Smith, Omaha, Nebraska.

H. N. Kibbey received his education in the public schools of Illinois and when a boy worked in his father's store, and when the family moved to Nebraska he went with them. In 1894 when they came to Clinton he also came here. Shortly after coming to Clinton he entered the employ of W. H. Bledsoe, who conducted a harness store on North Main street. He remained with Mr. Bledsoe for nine years, and in 1906 purchased Mr. Bledsoe's business and moved to his present location on the northeast corner of the square. In addition to the harness business Mr. Kibbey alsocarries a complete stock of shoes and trunks and leather goods. In October, 1917, Mr. Kibbey sold his harness department to Bristell & Van- Winkle, and since that time has devoted his attention to shoes, trunks and leather goods, and is the leading dealer in Clinton in these general lines. He is a progressive merchant and has built up an extensive trade. His policy is square dealing. He believes in the time honored precept of the mercantile businss that a satisfied customer is the best advertisement.

Mr. Kibbey was united in marriage January 8, 1900, with Miss Bine Strain of Carney, Nebraska. Her mother, Mrs. Sarah Strain, now resides at Clinton, Missouri, at the age of eighty-four. Mrs. Kibbey is one of the following children born to her parents: R. C, Baton Rouge, Louisiana;, Edward, Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Lizzie, now the wife of Herbert Sanburn, Ft. Scott, Kansas, and Bine, the wife of H. N. Kibbey. To Mr. and Mrs. Kibbey have been born two children: Fay, now the wife of W. A. Snell, Florence, Louisiana; Nannie, now the wife of Rollen Blakemore, Clinton, Missouri.

William S. Britell, senior member of the firm of Britell and VanWinkle, the leading harness dealers of Clinton, Missouri, is a native of Illinois. He was born in Whiteside County in 1881, a son of Rufus H. and Katie M. (Trout) Britell, the former a native of Vermont and the latter of Kentucky, both now deceased. Rufus H. Britell served in the United States Navy during the Civil War and was wounded at the battle of Mobile Bay. He came to Clinton, Missouri, in 1903 and spent the remainder of his life here. He died in 1913 at the age of eighty-one years. His wife preceded him in death a number of years, having died in 1892. They were the parents of two children: William S., the subject of this sketch; and Frank L., who lives in Kansas City, Missouri.

William S. Britell was reared and educated in Henry County and followed farming until 1904. He then came to Clinton and entered the employ of W. H. Bledsoe, who conducted a harness shop, and remained with him one year. Mr. Bledsoe was then succeeded by Mr. Kibbey and Mr.. Britell remained in his employ until 1917, when he and Mr. VanWinkle bought the Kibbey harness department, and have conducted this business until the present time. Mr. Britell is an experienced harness man and a, skilled mechanic in that field of work.

William S. Britell was united in marriage October 19, 1904, to Lydia M. Stotts of Clinton, Missouri, daughter of John 0. and Hannah (Campbell) Stotts of Clinton. The mother died in 1902 and the father now resides with Mrs. Britell. Mrs. Britell is one of a family of six children born to her parents as follow: William, Harrisonville, Missouri; Fred, Clinton, Missouri; Oscar, Harrisonville, Missouri; John, deceased; Lydia M., the wife of William S. Britell, the subject of this sketch, and Samuel, Clinton, Missouri. To Mr. and Mrs. Britell have been born four children : Katie, John, Lloyd and Iva May.

Mr. Britell is one of the progressive and enterprising business men of Clinton. The firm handles stock harness and also manufactures especially for their customers, as well as doing a general line of repair work. They have a prosperous business and rank among the leading business institutions of Henry County. Mr. Britell is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America and also the Woodmen of the World.

J. F. Van Winkle, of the firm of Britell & Van Winkle of Clinton, is a native of Henry County. He was born in Leesville township in 1871 and is a son of M. C. and Marie J. (Biggs) VanWinkle, both natives of Illinois. The father served in the Union Army with an Illinois regiment during the Civil War. After the war he came to Henry County, about 1870. Here he followed farming and stock raising until his death in 1880. His widow now lives in Clinton. Maria Biggs was a daughter of James R. Biggs, wh® settled in Henry County about the year 1870. His widow now lives in Clinton, aged eighty-nine years. There are five generations of the Biggs family now living in Henry County.

J. F. VanWinkle was reared in Henry County and educated in the public schools and was engaged in farming until 1917, when he, in partnership with W. S. Britell, purchased the Kibbey stock of harness, and since that time they have been engaged in the harness business at the Kibbey old stand.

Mr. VanWinkle has been twice married. His first wife, to whom he was married in 1893, bore the maiden name of Minnie Fowler, who was a daughter of George and Esther Fowler of Deep water, Missouri. She died in 1907, leaving the following children: Jene Clyde, La Due, Missouri; Irene, the wife of Bennie Dunning, Appleton City, Missouri; Ruth, now the wife of Jesse McGintis, Clinton, Missouri; Noma, Mary and Florence. Mr. VanWinkle was united in marriage in 1910 with Miss Erma Johnson of Clinton, Missouri. She is a daughter of Alvin and Ruth Johnson, the former now deceased and the latter lives at Deepwater, Missouri. To Mr. and Mrs. Van Winkle have been bom the follov^fing children: Darwin and Dorothy Jean, twins.

Robert H. Piper, proprietor of the Piper Brothers Department Store of Clinton, is one of the pioneer merchants of Henry County. Mr. Piper was bom in Saline County, Missouri, in 1855, and is a son of Garrett W. and Sophia J. (Farrar) Piper, both natives of Virginia, now deceased. They were the parents of the following children: John W., deceased; F. R., now deceased; Sarah, deceased, and Robert H., the subject of this sketch. The eldest son, John W., served in the Confederate Army during the Civil War. He married Lutie Lindsey, who now lives in New York City. F. R. Piper married Sallie McMann, and they are both now deceased and their remains are buried in Englewood Cemetery. F. R. Piper, the second oldest brother, came to Clinton in 1870 and engaged in the mercantile business in partnership with E. Allison. This was the beginning of the present Piper Brothers mercantile business. Mr. Allison retired from the firm in 1886 and was afterwards killed while serving as a guard at the penitentiary at Jefferson City. In 1878 Robert H. Piper became a member of the firm which consisted of the two brothers, F. R. and Robert H., and they continued the business in partnership until the death of F. R. Piper, May 2, 1917, and since that time Robert H. has continued the business under the old firm name of Piper Brothers, which is perhaps the best known business house in Henry County, having been in existence continually for over forty years, and during all this time has ranked as the leading business enterprise in Henry County.

Robert H. Piper received his education in the public schools of Saline County, Missouri, and the Jones Commercial College of St. Louis, Missouri. Mr. Piper became a member of the firm when he was twenty-two years of age, and has devoted his life to the mercantile business.

In 1884, Mr. Piper was united in marriage with Miss Bertie Lee Monafee of Miami, Missouri. She is a daughter of Robert and Jennie Monafee, natives of Missouri. Of their children now living are. Prof. Flournory Monafee of Washington University, Washington, D. C. ; Amelia, married Floumory Snelling ; Richard, an employe of the Govemment, Washington, D. C. ; Walter, a prominent farmer and stockman of Henry County. To Robert H. Piper and wife have been born the following children: Juanita,

Mr. Piper takes an interest in local political affairs and served as collector of Henry County for one term, and has served for several years at different times as a member of the city council at Clinton. He has been a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of Clinton for forty-two years and is one of Henry County's substantial and highly respected citizens.

Jesse D. Cook, of the firm of Cook & Kincaid, well-known grocers of Clinton, was born in Gower, Missouri, December 22, 1880. He is a son of J. H. Cook and Lydia B. (Johnson) Cook. J. H. Cook was a native of Kentucky and came to Missouri when he was nineteen years of age, and bought a farm near Gower, where he spent his life engaged in farming and stock raising. He died at the age of seventy-four years. Lydia B. Johnson came to Missouri with her parents when she was eleven years of age and died at the age of fifty-five years, and her remains rest by the side of those of her husband, in New Harmony Cemetery at Gower, Missouri. They were the parents of the following children: Dr. Emmet F. Cook, a prominent physician and surgeon of St. Joseph, Missouri, who is now serving in the Medical Corps of the United States Army with the rank of Captain and was the first surgeon called to the service from St. Joseph; Ambie, now the wife of S. P. Hering, an electrician of Ft. Smith, Arkansas; Jesse D., the subject of this sketch, and James K., an employee of the Burlington railway at St. Joseph, Missouri.

Jesse D. Cook was educated in the public schools of Missouri and the St. Joseph High School. After leaving school he engaged in farming, which he continued until 1914, when he engaged in the grocery business at Clinton in partnership with Mr. Kincaid. They succeeded to the business of 0. A. Peckstein. The Cook & Kincaid firm is recognized as one of the live, up-to-date and substantial retail grocery houses of Clinton. Their store is located at 908 North Second street.

Jesse D. Cook was married in 1902 to Miss Nellie Jones of Gower, Missouri. She is a daughter of W. H. and Lucy Jones of that place. Mrs. Jesse D. Cook is one of the following children born to her parents : Walter L., a traveling salesman, Kansas City, Missouri ; Ed, farmer, Gower, Missouri; L. R., an electrician, Kansas City, Missouri; Lela, married Claud Kincaid of Clinton, Missouri; Mrs. Jesse D. Cook, wife of the subject of this sketch; Lotta, married Wyatt Kincaid of Gower, Missouri.

Mr. Cook is one of the progressive business men of Clinton, and is rapidly making a business reputation that might well be envied by men who have been in business here for years.

Royal W. Booth. - The Booth Hatchery, located at 807 North Fourth street, Clinton, Missouri, is a very interesting and instructive business, showing what one can do with the initiative and ability of a business man in the poultry business. Mr. Booth opened his chicken hatchery in 1914 and he has an ever increasing demand for his small hatched chickens of various breeds, among which are the well-known White Leghorns, Plymouth Rock, Rhode Island Red and Buff Orpingtons.

Mr. Booth has an incubator hatching capacity of 15,000 chickens. One building holds 10,000 and the other 5,000 in various small buildings, which has lately been replaced by a new building with better facilities for handling and caring for the young chicks. In the four years of his work Mr. Booth has shipped chickens all over the United States, his chickens being on sale from January to November. He specializes in the White Leghorn hens for their laying qualities and meat.

In connection with his work of raising small chicks, Mr. Booth has also the agency for the Buckeye and Cyphers incubators. He deals extensively in eggs also.

R. W. Booth was born at Cedar Springs, Michigan, in 1895 and is the son of F. D. and Ida J. (Gates) Booth, now residing at Clinton, Missouri. In 1906, Mr. and Mrs. Booth with their family moved to a farm near Clinton, where they remained until 1911, when they located in Clinton and where they are now making their home. They are the parents of four children : Rex, Clinton ; Royal W., with whom this sketch deals ; Eden and Mary E., at home with their parents.

Royal W. Booth received his education in the public schools of Clinton and took a course of agriculture in his high school work, thus interesting him in his present work. He read every available bulletin on the subject and soon after leaving school he had his chicken hatchery going. The business is likely to be a very large one in extent as the years roll by as it has increased in leaps and bounds the past year. On .July 15, 1918, Mr. Booth became a private soldier in the National Army and is now in training at Camp McArthur, Texas. His brother, Eden, immediately took charge of the business in his stead and is conducting it successfully.

John Doll, a prominent farmer and stock man of White Oak township, is a native of Ohio, born in Tuscarawas County, September 9, 1862; he is a son of John and Mary (Wesner) Doll, natives of Germany, who settled in Ohio upon immigrating to this country. Later they moved to Illinois, where they remained until 1867. They then came to Missouri and settled in White Oak township, Henry County, where the father first bought eighty acres of land. He prospered in his undertaking and bought more land from time to time, and when he died, September 1, 1907, he was the owner of over four hundred acres. He was an industrious man and a good citizen, and is one of the pioneers who is entitled to a share of credit for making Henry County what it is today. His widow resides on the old home place in White Oak township. They were the parents of the following children: John, who lives in Walker township; Jacob, the subject of this sketch; William, lives in Walker township; Eflfle, resides on the home place with her mother, and Lizzie, a stenographer in Kansas City, Missouri.

Jacob Doll was reared on a farm and attended school at Maple Grove and Lucas districts. He has made farming and stock raising the principal occupation of his life, and is the owner of a valuable farm, well improved and well stocked, located in White Oak township. His farm consists of two hundred forty-two acres of productive land located about a half mile west of Lucas.

Mr. Doll was united in marriage January 3, 1889, to Miss Alpha M. Webb, a daughter of Isaac and Hettie Webb. Mrs. Doll was bom in Illinois December 4, 1868, and her father died in that State when she was a child. After the death of the father, the mother came to Missouri with her family in 1880 and died here the following year. Mrs. Doll has one brother, Orville, who now resides in California.

To Mr. and Mrs. Doll have been born the following children: Lula Mabel, at home; Arthur C, Quay, Oklahoma; Mary, married M. Q. Herrell, u'rich, Missouri; Alpha H., married C. R. Henny; Albert H., at home; Elmer T. J., at home ; Frances Lillian, died at the age of eight years ; and Alice Lucile ; and Etta Lois, born June 7, 1918.

Mr. Doll is comparatively a young man as ages are reckoned nowadays, but he is also what might be considered an early settler of Henry County, when the development, which has taken place, since he came here, is taken into consideration. He recalls the time when a great deal of their supplies, such as lumber and other building material, were hauled from

Holden, and it has not been very long ago that his nearest postoffice was at Clinton, a distance of twenty miles, and his mail waited for him to go after it. He says that his first spring buggy was a Ford - that up to the time of the introduction of automobiles he used a lumber wagon for all the joy riding in which he indulged. Mr. Doll relates many incidents of early life in Henry County. They had their grinding done at Cook's Mill and the early settlers, many of them, had to come a long distance to mill, and there were no roads nor bridges. He relates an instance in which he and his brother went to mill with twenty bushels of com, and while there a sudden rainstorm raised White Oak Creek to the flood stage and when they crossed it on their return home, they put poles across the wagon-bed and placed their meal sacks over the poles and thus succeeded in fording the creek without getting their meal wet. This is one of the hundreds of his early-day experiences. Mr. and Mrs. Doll are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

James Wallace Butcher, one of the leading farmers in Bogard township, was born in Montgomery County, Indiana, April 22, 1862, and is a son of Alexander M. and Margaret Elizabeth Butcher, a sketch of whom appears in this volume. James Wallace Butcher was about four years of age when he was brought to Henry County by his parents, who settled in Big Creek township. Here he was reared to manhood and educated in the district schools. He remained at home with his parents until 1884, when they went to Sumner County, Kansas. One year later he returned to Big Creek township, and since that time he has been engaged in farming and stock raising in Henry County. For a time he lived in Shawnee township. Mr. Butcher is a practical farmer and stockman and has a well improved farm of eighty acres, which is located three miles northwest of Urich. Mrs. Butcher has won a reputation as a successful poultry raiser. She specializes in brown Leghorns and has about six hundred of these chickens. She has installed all modern methods for carrying on the poultry business on a small scale and has been very successful in this line of endeavor.

James Wallace Butcher was united in marriage September 23, 1909, with Mrs. Nannie L. Keiser of Bogard township and a native of Livingston County, Missouri. She is a daughter of William A. and Rachel Elizabeth (Munsey) Keiser, natives of Virginia, and both now deceased, and their remains are interred in the cemetery at Newtonia, Missouri. The father was a Confederate veteran, having enlisted in the Confederate

Mrs. Butcher is one of a family of nine children born to her parents : Mrs. Mary Stansberry, Tacoma, Washington; Mrs. Jennie Zachary Alexander, Illinois; William A., Adrian, Missouri; B. B., lives at Corsicana, Texas ; Martha L., deceased ; Sarah Catherine, deceased ; Thomas C, deceased; Elbert W.

To Mr. and Mrs. James Wallace Butcher have been born two children, Lois and Ruth Esther. The Butchers are one of the representative families of Henry County and Mr. Butcher is a progressive and enterprising citizen.

Walter H. Doll, a well-to-do farmer of White Oak tovraship, was born in the township where he now resides, June 30, 1882. He is the son of Leonard and Margaret (Janette) Doll, the former a native of Germany and the latter of Switzerland. Leonard Doll, the father, first lived in Ohio for a time after coming to America, and then went to Illinois. He came from Illinois to Missouri some years prior to the Civil War and engaged in the mercantile business at Clinton, and he was one of the first merchants there. After the close of the Civil War, he settled in White Oak township, near Lucas, and here spent the remainder of his life. He died in 1899 and was preceded in death by his wife, who died in 1896. They were the parents of the following children: Jacob, a farmer and stockman in White Oak township; Andrew, Bates County; John, who lives in White Oak township; Charles, Urich, Missouri; Maggie, now the wife of Henry Herman, Butler, Missouri; and Tena, now the wife of Max Felhauser, Clinton, Missouri.

Walter H. Doll was reared on a farm and educated in the public schools at Lucas. He remained at home with his parents, while they lived. He purchased his present place, which is located one and one-half miles southwest of Lucas, in 1908, and since locating here he has added valuable improvements to his place and it is now one of the fine farms of White Oak township. Mr. Doll is quite extensively engaged in the cattle business and also raises pure-blood spotted Poland China hogs and Oxford sheep.

Mr. Doll was married in 1908 to Miss Bertha Bunch, a daughter of Mart and Laura (Ridge) Bunch of Honey Creek township. Mart and Laura (Ridge) Bunch are the parents of the following children: Bertha, now Mrs. Walter H. Doll; George, Honey Creek township; Otto, Walker township; Lora, resides at home; Ruth, married Elmer Hardison; Winnie and Grace at home. To Mr. and Mrs. Walter H. Doll have been born three children, Andrew, Elvis and Otto.

Mr. Doll is of the thrifty and progressive type of American farmer and is making good. He is one of Henry County's substantial and valued citizens, and the Doll family are highly respected members of the community.

Walter Barth, a progressive young farmer and stockman of White Oak township, is a native son of Henry County and a member of one of the pioneer families of this section. He was born in White Oak township February 18, 1895, a son of John and Sophia (Rombold) Barth. The parents were among the pioneer settlers of White Oak township and are both now deceased. They were the parents of the following children: Albert, Urich, Missouri; Mrs. Clara Sevier, Urich, Missouri; Josie, resides on the home place; George, farmer and stockman of White Oak township; Tressie, resides on the home place; Mrs. Ida Henny, White Oak township; Robert, Lucas, Missouri; Walter, the subject of this sketch, and David, who resides on the home place.

Walter Barth was educated in the Lucas schools and remained at home wath his parents until he was twenty-one years old. He located on his present place, one and one-half miles southwest of Lucas, in 1916. Here he has a valuable farm of one hundred sixty acres, with good improvements and well stocked. He specializes in Hereford cattle and Poland China hogs, and is making a success of his undertaking.

Mr. Barth was married February 20, 1916, to Miss Elsie Gaines, daughter of Charles S. and Cora Hibler Gaines. Mrs. Barth's mother has been dead a number of years, and her father now resides at Urich. Mr. and Mrs. Barth are popular young people and have a broad acquaintance in Henry County. Mr. Barth is a Democrat in politics. He and Mrs. Barth are members of the Lucas Methodist Episcopal Church, South.

George Barth, a well-known farmer and stockman of White Oak township, is a descendant of one of the pioneer families of Henry County. He was bom in Henry County, April 21, 1886, and is a son of John and Sophia (Rombold) Barth, pioneers of White Oak township. The former died June 6, 1917, and the latter departed this life May 26, 1911. They were the parents of the following children: Albert, Urich, Missouri; Maggie, died in childhood; Mrs. Clara Sevier, Urich, Missouri; Josie;

George, the subject of this sketch; Tressie; Mrs. Ida Henny, Urich, Missouri; Robert, Urich, Missouri; Walter, and David, who lives on the old home place. Sophia Rombold was the second wife of John Earth. His first wife bore the maiden name of Mary Lebold and the folowing children were born to that union: John W., Urich, Missouri; Mrs. Dora Grettinger, Urich, Missouri; Mrs. Helen Doll; Mrs. Lizzie Doll, and Jacob Earth.

George Earth was reared on a farm and received his education in the district schools of White Oak township. He remained on the home farm with his father until he was twenty-five years of age ; he then engaged in farming on his own account on the place where he now resides, which was originally a part of the John Earth estate. Mr. Earth is an extensive farmer and recognized as one of the successful stock raisers of Henry County. He raises Duroc Jersey hogs, Red Poll cattle and has some of the valuable pure-bred hogs and cattle of the county. Mr. Earth was united in marriage March 19, 1911, with Miss Floy Long, a daughter of William and Mollie Long of Walker township. The Long family reside in Walker township. To William and Mollie Long have been born the following: Mrs. Annie Carver, Deepwater, Missouri; Alonzo, Walker township; Mrs. Florence North, White Oak township; Stephen, lives in Walker township; Floy, the wife of George Earth, the subject of this sketch; Mrs. Nelia Hargrave, Walker township, and Ethel, at home. To Mr. and Mrs. Earth have been born two children, daughters, Frances and Roberta. Mr. Earth is one of the substantial citizens of Henry County, and he and his wife are prominent in the community.

James W. Sevier, a well-known and successful farmer and stock raiser of White Oak township, was born in this township October 21, 1866, and is a son of George A. and Marj^ (Dunn) Sevier, the former a native of Tennessee and the latter of White Oak township, Henry County. George A. Sevier was an early settler in Henry County, coming here long before the Civil War. His father, Abraham Sevier, also lived here at an early day, and died here, and his remains are buried at Stone Chapel. George A. Sevier died in 1873 and his widow married A. V. Clary and now resides on a farm in White Oak tovmship. George A., and Mary (Dunn) Sevier were the parents of the following children: James W., the subject of this sketch; Rosa E., married William Williams, and is now deceased; Dora E., married W. G. Martin and lives in White Oak township; and Ed, a sketch of whom appears in this volume.

James '^V. Sevier was reared in Henry County and received his education in the Lucas district school. He remained on the home farm until he was twenty-six years of age. He then operated rented land for two years. In 1894 he purchased his first land, which consisted of a farm of eighty acres. Later he added thirty and now owns one hundred and ten acres of fertile and productive farm land. His place is well improved with a good residence and other commodious and convenient farm buildings. The residence is located on a slight eminence, and the place presents an unusually well-kept appearance. Mr. Sevier is quite extensively interested in the stock business.

February 15, 1892, James W. Sevier and Miss Louella J. Patt were united in marriage. She is a daughter of J. M. and Martha Patt, a sketch of whom appears in this volume.

Mr. Sevier is a member of the Masonic Lodge, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons No. 286, Urich, Missouri. He is one of the substantial citizens of this county who has made good.

James A. Dunn. - In the death of James A. Dunn, which occurred September 4, 1911, Big Creek township and Henry County lost one of its valued pioneer citizens. He was a native Missourian, born in Cooper County, December 24, 1843, a son of Nathan E. and Julia (Ogle) Dunn, natives of Missouri, and pioneers of this State. They came to this State in 1835 and in 1853 settled in Henry County, entering land from the Government, south of where Urich now stands. Here Nathan E. Dunn and his wife spent the remainder of their lives. They were the parents of four children: James A., whose name introduces this review; Mrs. Mary Clary, who now resides in White Oak township; Newton, who also resides in White Oak township, and Mrs. Margaret Armstrong, now de-

James A. Dunn received his education in such schools as the new country afforded after the family settled in Henry County, and his early life was spent much as that of the average boy in those days in western Missouri. When the Civil War broke out, he joined the Confederate Army in May, 1861, becoming a member of Colonel Lewis' regiment, which was attached to the army of General Sterling Price. He participated in the Battle of Lexington and the battles of Pea Piidge, Helena, Arkansas; Pleasant Hill, Louisiana; Mansfield and Jenkins Ferry, besides numerous other engagements and skirmishes. He was never wounded nor taken prisoner throughout his military career, although he received a severe shock from the explosion of a shell at the Battle of Helena. He was a good soldier and made a good military record.

At the close of the war Mr. Dunn returned to Henry County, and in 1870 bought his first land, which consisted of forty acres. He engaged in farming and stock raising and met with more than ordinary success. He added more land from time to time and at his death was the owner of six hundred fifty acres of well-improved and valuable land. He was known as a successful stockman.

On September 14, 1887, James A. Dunn and Miss Jemima H. Herrington were married, and the following children were born to this union : William E., Urich, Missouri; Georgia, deceased; Nathan J., whose present address is unknown; and Eliza M. Mr. Dunn's first wife died and he was later united in marriage with Miss Martha J. Tarter, a daughter of Calvin and Sarah (Lancoster) Tarter, natives of Kentucky, and early settlers in Henry County, locating here in 1868, in Big Creek township. They were the parents of the following children: Martha J., who married James A. Dunn, the subject of this sketch; William E., who lives in Marion County, Illinois; Lucy Ann, deceased; Nancy, deceased; Mary Frances, married William Brown, Shawnee township; Sarah Elizabeth, married William Norcross, Shawnee township; and Alice, married George Dunham, Huntingdale, Shawnee township.

To James A. and Martha J. Dunn were born the folowing children: Ida Jemima, married Edward Jagerman, Big Creek township ; Stella Ella, married Harvey Coe, Hollow, Oklahoma; Tina, married Grady L. Swarts, Big Creek township; Grady C, married Grace Buchanan, and lives in Big Creek township; Ola L. married Virginia Murphy, and lives on the home place; Tempel, Mabel, and John 0., residing at home with their mother.

James A. Dunn was a member of the Masonic Lodge and belonged to the Methodist Church, South. He was one of the honored pioneers of Henry County, and the Dunn family are highly respected members of the community, and valued citizens of Henry County.

M. R. Mohler of Maurine, Big Creek township, belongs to a Henry County pioneer family. He is a native of Ohio, bom in Darke County, October 17, 1856, a son of J. S. and Mary H. (Moore) Mohler, both natives of Ohio. The father came to Missouri in 1868, and after spending about a year at Knobnoster, Johnson County, he came to Henry County and settled in Big Creek township, where he and the brother bought eight hundred acres of land at sixteen dollars per acre. He lived in Henry County for several years, when he went to Kansas and died at Quinter in 1911. His wife died in 1912. They were the parents of the following children: Nancy, married D. W. Benezette, and is now deceased; M. R., the subject of this sketch ; Samuel R., Montrose, Missouri ; Joseph, Quinter, Kansas ; Maggie, married Daniel Hendricks, Montrose, Missouri; Katherine, married O. F. Johnson, Kansas City, Missouri; Becky, married Dr. J. M. Eisenbise, Quinter, Kansas, and John, Preston, Nebraska.

M. R. Mohler was educated in the public schools of Big Creek township, his principal teacher being J. 0. Overby of Urich. Mr. Mohler remained on the home farm until 1886. He then clerked in a store for a time at Industry, and later clerked in a store at Hartwell, and while there served as postmaster and was manager of a co-operative store. He then was employed in Clinton for a time, and in 1893 went to Norris and engaged in business for himself and conducted a store there for seven years, and was postmaster while there also. He then located at Maurine, where he lived for seven years. He then went to Blairstown and engaged in the mercantile business and in 1911 engaged in farming, to which he devoted the next three years. In 1913 he engaged in the mercantile business at Maurine, where he has since conductd a general £tore.

Mr. Mohler was married in November, 1877, to Miss Amanda J. Rader, a daughter of Gideon and Mary J. (Reeder) Rader of Big Creek township. Both her parents are now deceased. They were the parents of the following children : John, lives in Texas ; James, Lees Summit, Missouri ; Mrs. Emma Wilcoxon, Eldorado Springs, Missouri; Mrs. Addie Pitts, Flemington, Missouri; Mrs. Eva Goodbar, Archie, Missouri. To Mr. and Mrs. Mohler have been born two children, Griffie E., a Pullman conductor on the Southern Pacific railroad, and J. 0., a farmer in Bogard township. Mr. Mohler is a member of the Woodmen of the World and a representative citizen of Henry County.

William G. Martin, a prominent pioneer and stockman of White Oak township, ranks as one of the leading citizens of Henry County. He was bom in Jefferson County, Iowa, June 9, 1864, and is a son of Claudias B. and Ann Eliza Martin, both natives of Virginia. Claudias B. Martin with his family located in Henry County, Missouri, in 1866. He settled on a farm and was engaged in farming and stock raising until the time of his death in 1873. His wife died in 1917. They were the parents of the following children : James N, who now resides in California ; Mrs. Margaret Cornet, Ozark, Arkansas; Hamilton, died at the age of twelve; Edden H. ; Mrs. Virginia Jennings, who resides in California; Claudius B., California; Joseph F., deceased; William G., the subject of this sketch, and Ruth E., deceased.

William G. Martin received his education in the public schools, attending school at the Hickory Grove district. He recalls that his first teacher was William R. Owens, and that the old school house was equipped with hand-made benches, made of native walnut. The old school building of the pioneer days stood on the site of the present modern school building at Hickory Grove. After reaching maturity William G. Martin remained on the home farm with his mother until he was thirty-three years of age. In 1911 he bought out the interest of the other heirs and thus became the owner of his father's old homestead, which is located six miles southeast of Urich in White Oak township. The place consists of eighty acres and while Mr. Martin is not one of the large land owners of Henry County he owns enough of land for modern-day conditions, and no doubt the intensified farming of the future will require the ownership and operation of much less than eighty acres for each individual to get the best results from the soil. The day of what has been well termed "agricultural locusts" is rapidly passing. The West has come to recognize that less land, better tilled, means more than the loose methods of the past in undertaking to cultivate large acreage.

Mr. Martin was united in marriage in 1897 with Miss Dora E. Sevier, a daughter of George and Mary (Dunn) Sevier, pioneers of White Oak township. To Mr. and Mrs. Martin have been born the following children : Ray Paul, now a student in the Electric College at Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Ruth E., the wife of William Harbstreet of White Oak township, Henry County.

Mr. Martin takes an active interest in local political and civic affairs, and stands ever ready and willing to co-operate with any movement for the social betterment and upbuilding of White Oak township and Henry County. He has served as a member of the local school board and he and Mrs. Martin are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The Martin family stand high in the community in which they live and are prominent.

William W. Johnston, president of the Farmers Bank of Blairstown, was born at Dayton, Cass County, Missouri, February 2, 1865. He is the son of George and Nancy (Hendon) Johnston. George Johnston, his father, was born in Kentucky and migrated from his native State to Cass County, Missouri, in the forties. He resided in Cass County until 1872, at which time he went to Cedar County, Missouri. In his later years he removed to a home in California and died at Long Beach in 1908. George and Nancy Johnston were parents of the following children: Anna Lynn, deceased; LeRoy L. Johnston, Pleasant View, Cedar County, Missouri; W. W., subject of this sketch; Samuel, living in Idaho; Mrs. Nettie Phipps, Long Beach, California; Mrs. George Folk, Stockton, Missouri.

W. W. Johnston was educated in Cedar County, attending the Pleasant View school house when Charles Stewart was the teacher. When fifteen years old he left home to adventure upon unknown paths, as he says: "All I had when I left the home was a straw hat and a pair of overalls." He came to Big Creek township, Henry County, and worked as a farm hand for Pleasant Webster for a wage of $12 per month. For a period of ten years he worked as farm laborer in this vicinity and in the meantime purchased his first farm of eighty acres and later purchased a farm consisting of 105 acres from Doctor Noble of Urich. Mr. Johnston has succeeded during the years that have passed and has accumulated a splendid farm of 455 acres, and other land. He owns Kansas City property, consisting of a six apartment flat and a five room cottage and a gents furnishing store located in Jamestown, Missouri; also a considerable amount of personal property, all of which property is clear and free from debt.

The Johnston residence is located four miles southwest of Blairstown and the place upon which it is situated was purchased in 1910. There are two sets of improvements upon the Johnston land, all of which are kept in a good state of repair. Mr. Johnston is an extensive stockman and feeder of live stock and specializes in white face Hereford cattle, of which breed he has forty-five head of high grade stock on his place. His herd leader is a pure bred registered male. He also has forty Hereford calves. One hundred head of well fed cattle has been the yearly output of the Johnston farm, and he also ships about a carload of Poland China hogs annually. The farm is well watered and finely adapted for stock raising.

Mr. Johnston was mari-ied on January 11, 1893, to Margaret J. Lotspiech, a daughter of John and Caroline Lotspiech of Bogard township. John Lotspiech was a soldier in the Confederate Army and located in Bogard township after the close of the war. He married Caroline Potts of Big Creek township, who came to Henry County with her parents, Absalom and Susan (Wall) Potts, natives of North Carolina. The Potts family came to this county in 1839 and were among the earliest of the pioneer settlers of Big Creek township. The father of Mrs. Susan (Wall) Potts entered several thousand acres of Government land here and owned over one hundred slaves which he brought from the plantation in North Carolina.

Mr. Johnston is affiliated with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and is one of the leaders of the Democratic party in Henry County. For the past four years he has been central committeeman for Bogard township. He was one of the organizers and a charter member of the Farmers Bank of Blairstown and has served as president of this flourishing bank since its first organization.

Robert Henry Holland, owner of the "Pecan Stock Farm," is one of the progressive farmers and stockmen of Honey Creek township. Mrs. Holland is a native of Kentucky. He was born in Logan County in 1865 and is a son of W. A., and Sarah M. (Browning) Holland, both natives of Logan County, Kentucky. They came to Henry County in 1876 and settled in Deep water township, where they resided until 1896. W. A. Holland moved to Appleton City, and a few years later settled on a farm near Ohio Postoffice in St. Clair County, where he died.

To W. A. and Sarah M. (Browning) Holland were bom the following children: Charles J., Deepwater township; Robert H., the subject of this sketch; G. E., Kansas City, Missouri; W. S., died in Los Angeles, California ; Mrs. Laura J. Park, Greenville, Kentucky ; Mrs. Virginia Bryson, Stewardsville, Missouri; S. T., Bellingham, Washington; J. T., lives in California; Homer D., Chinook, Montana. The mother of these children died in 1894 and the father was married again and two children were born to that marriage, Wilbur and Mabel, both living at Appleton City. W. A. Holland died May, 1913.