Jackson County, Missouri - Biographical sketches, 1881 (part 9 of 12)

A. J. Turner

A. J. TURNER, Blue Mills, is a native of South Carolina, and was born in Moberly District, January 10, 1816. When about ten years of age, his parents moved to Stokes County, North Carolina, where he grew to manhood. In the summer of 1849, he came to Missouri, and located in Ray County, where he remained till 1853, when he located in Jackson County. He was engaged in agricultural pursuits and dealing in stock till the fall of 1877, when he moved to Blue Mills, and took charge of a store, by invoice of Luvene Turner, deceased. Was there engaged in the mercantile trade till December 16, 1880. His landed estate consists of 150 acres, besides comfortable property in Blue Mills. Mr. Turner was married December 24, 1833, to Miss Elizabeth Frazier, a native of North Carolina, who died November 2, 1880. They had nine children, two of whom are living: Nancy J. (now Mrs. Minter), and Laura (now Mrs. FrankUn).

Geo. T. Twyman

GEO. T. TWYMAN, Physician and surgeon, is a son of Dr. L. W. Twyman, a well-known practitioner of about thirty years experience in Jackson County, Missouri. Here the subject of this sketch was born December 16, 1853, where he was reared, being educated in the common schools, and at the William Jewell College, of Liberty, Clay County, Missouri. He studied medicine with his father, and attended the Louisville Medical College, of Kentucky, in the year 1877, for five months, and then attended the Kentucky Medical College for five months. Afterward took a second course in the Louisville Medical College, graduating February 28, 1879, after which he returned to Jackson County. Since that time he has been engaged in the practice of his profession with his father.

John W. Tyer

JOHN W. TYER, Farmer and stock raiser, section 32, post-ofifice Lake City, was born January 16, 1839, in Linn County, Missouri, and was brought to this county by his parents when eleven years of age. Here he received his education, and spent his boyhood days on a farm. During the late War, he served four years under General Shelby, and was at all the most important battles fought in this vicinity, with the exception of Prairie Grove. He owns 160 acres of fine land, 100 of which are under cultivation. He has filled the office of school director for six years. He is a man that gives his entire attention to business and is one of Jackson County's best citizens. He has been twice married. First, to Miss Amanda George, in 1868. She died in 1879, ^^^ ^^^^ '^° children: Mary E. and L. W.; lost two. He was married again in the fall of 1879, to Betty Tucker, a native of Lafayette County, Missouri, born in 1841. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Joseph Vaughn

Farmer and stock raiser, section 32, post-office Lake City, was born on the sth of August, 1839, in Sni-a-bar Township, this county, and accompanied his parents to Buchanan County when about six years of age. There he resided ten years, and received his education in the common schools. He returned to this county in 1855, and engaged in farming, and during the late War served about one year with Quantrell. He then turned his attention to farming, and now owns a fine farm of eighty acres, where he resides, and 100 acres in the bottom. "Joe," as he is called, is a hard-working, industrious farmer, and one that attends to his own business He was married in December, 1870, to Miss S. B. Harris, a native of Kentucky, born in 1852. They have two children living: Josephine and Walter; lost two.

G. J. Ward

G. J. WARD, Merchant, postmaster and agent for the Wyandott, Kansas City & Lexington Railroad, at Levasy, was born December 21, 1844, in Lafayette County, Missouri, and was reared in that and Jackson Counties. He received the principal part of his education atWellington, and during the late War he enlisted under General Price in 1861, taking part in the battles of Lexington, Homersville, and others. In 1862 he took a trip to Mexico, and in 1863 went again to the same country. In 1864 traveled west, and visited Salt Lake City, Denver, and spent the winter of 1865 in the Black Hills. Then returned to this county, engaging in teaching, and was married on the T4th of April, 1868, to Miss Jennie Latimer, a native of this county, born in September, 1845. He moved to Napoleon, and resided there one winter, and then purchased his father's old homestead, south of Lexington. Two years later, he came to this county, and engaged in farming. Here Mrs. Ward died, April 27, 1874, leaving one child, James L. In the winter of 1874 he taught school, and attended the Normal Institute at Warrensburg, in 1875. Afterward engaged in teachinij, clerking, etc., and in the spring of 1877 came to Levasy, and erected the first building in the place. He keeps a good store, is postmaster, and also express and railroad agent. His second marriage was November 13, 1878, to Miss B-ttie M. Oldham, a native of Independence, born July 5, 1853. Tney have one child, John L.; one is deceased. They are members of the Christian Church.

Robert Austin

Was born in St. Louis, Missouri, August 28, 1811, and came to Oak Grove in 1833 and bought 200 acres of land. He married Miss Eliza Jane Watkins in this township in 1834. They have seven children : Jessie G., Thomas T. , Mary Jane, William F., George, John H. and Sarah Ann - all well married and settled in several different States. Mr. Austin is one of those men whose advice and counsel are always sought. Mr. Austin was a Union man and for that was compelled to go to Platte County. While there his buildings were burned and his property destroyed, which came near ruining him. In 1864 he disposed of his property in Oak Grove and bought a farm of 160 acres in Johnson County, Kan. He has always been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and has done much for churches, schools and benevolent institutions of different kinds.

William P. Bailey

"Farmer, section 24, post-office Pink Hill, was born in Shelby County Kentucky, April 17, 1832, and remained in his native county on a farm till 1843, when his parents moved to Clay County. There they remained one year, and on account of the high water of 1844 returoed to Breckenridge County, Kentucky, where they remained till the spring of 1850; He then came to Jackson County, where he has since resided-; he moved to his present location in the spring of 1880. Mr. Bailey has followed farming from boyhood, and his farm now contains more than eighty acres. Was married May 28, 1858, to Miss Elizabeth Holmes, a native of Shelby County, Kentucky, but reared in Jackson County, Missouri. They have had nine childred, seven of whom are livrng : Nannie, Katie L., Mamie, Emma, Paulina, Fannie and Myrtie.

Farmer and stock raiser, section 32, post-office Blue Springs, was born in Sumner County, Tennessee, December 25, 1829. and was reared on a farm in his native county. December 10, 1856, he started for Jackson County, Missouri, and during the spring and summer seasons of 1858 and i860 he was in ihe mountains engaged in freighting. He enlisted in Price's army and served two months, and during the last two years of the War he lived in Ray County, Missouri. Since that time has been a citizen of Jackson County. His farm contains 174 acres. He was married July 7, 1861, to Miss Frances Bowhn, a native of Jackson County, Missouri. They have had ten children, of whom seven are Hving : Nancy E., John Lucy J., R., Jacob, Charles, Joseph, Samuel and Sarah M.

William Q. Brizendine

Farmer, section 14, post-office Grain Valley, was born on the 19th of November, 1832, in Sumner County, Tennessee, and spent his boyhood days there on a farm; also worked some at the stone-mason trade. He moved to Kentucky in 1853, and remained there two years, and came to this county in 1855, settling in this township; he moved to the place he now occupies in the fall of 1876. He owns 175 acres, about 100 of which are under cultivation. He also has a large amount of stock.' Mr. Briz-eudine has filled the ofifice of school director. He enlisted in the Confederate Army in 1862, served but a short time, and received a wound, which compelled him to return home. He married Miss Susan K. Alley in 1856. She is a native of Tennessee, and was born in 1841. They have eight children living: John F., George R., Carolina C, Nancy E., Joseph W., Saraantha E., Mary M., and Samuel J. T.; lost four. He is a member of the Christian Church, and his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Farmer, section 29, post-office Blue Springs, was born in Simpson County, Ky., February 2, 1847. His father being extensively engaged in raising fine stock, J. B. has followed it more or less during life. He came to Jackson County, Missouri, in 1871, where he has since resided ; his farm consists of eighty acres, all of which is well improved. He was married November 7, 1872, to Miss Sarah E. Porter, who is a native of Jackson County, Mo. They have four children : Julia B., Mary L., John H., and Thos. L.

James M. Burrus, Sr

Farmer, section 36, post-office Blue Springs, was born in Henry County, Virginia, May 23, 1823, and came to Jackson County, Missouri, in the spring of 1834. He has followed farming from boyhood, excepting from 1859 to 1863, when he was running a saw and grist mill. During the War, on account of Order No. 11, he moved to Boonville, Missouri. His farm contains 120 acres. He was married August 9, 1859, to Miss Arminta Kimberlin. They have had seven children, of whom five are living: Mattie K., Minnie, Georgie., T. K., and Eva.

James M. Burrus, Jr

Farmer and stock raiser, section 19, post-office Blue Springs, was born November 2, 1845, in this county, being raised here as a farmer. He was educated in the common schools, and in the spring of 1861 enlisted in the State Militia, and served six months, and was discharged on the 15th of August, 1862. Then enlisted in the Confederate service in Company D, 2nd Missouri Cavalry, and served till the close of the War, and surrendered at Shrevesport. He took part in the battles of Lexington, Lone Jack, and the most important fought in this vicinity. After the close of the War he returned to this county and engaged in farming, making the raising of stock a specialty. He has one of the finest farms in Jackson County, containing eighty acres, well watered and improved, and his house and surroundings present a fine appearance. He was married November 22, 1866, to Miss Elizabeth Noland, a native of Jackson County. She was reared and educated here. They have five children: Florence A., Olney F., James E., WiUiam R., and Jesse L.

Farmer and stock raiser, section 5, post-office Levasy, was born January 20, 1822, in Loudoun County, Virginia, and immigrated to Jackson County, Missouri, in 1854, and bought 145 acres and entered forty acres of land, where he remained until 1863, when he moved to Kansas and settled on the Shawnee Reservation. In 1866 he returned to this county, and found his farm in almost as bad a state as when he first commenced to work it ; but it is now well improved. Mr. Campbell came to Jackson County a poor man, and by strict economy, honest industry, and careful attention to his own business, he has accumulated quite a fortune. He owns 1400 acres of fine land. He was married August 17, 1847, to Miss Rachel A. Grubb, by whom he had eight children: Joseph E., Mary E., Charity R., James R., John B., George G., Sarah R., and Ruth H.

J. H. Cannon

Merchant, postmaster, magistrate, notary public, and grain dealer. Grain Valley, was born February 27, 1840, in Warren Couniy, Virgmia, where he resided until fifteen years of age, there receiving a part of his education. He then accompanied his parents to Frederick County, remaining for three years, and taught one term of school. Thence to Wood County, West Virginia, where he engaged in farming and teaching, and in the fall of 1862 enlisted in Company H, 17th Virginia Cavalry, and served until the close of the War, taking part in the battles of Gettysburg, Winchester, Lexington and others. During the last six months of his service he held the position of captain. At the close of the War he removed to Craig County, Virginia, and engaged in teaching for a number of years. Then engaged in the stock business for some eighteen months. In the spring of 1868 he went to Colorado and engaged in mining, remained there one year, then returned to Virginia and resumed the stock business. In the spring of 187 1 he came to this county, and engaged in farming and teaching until July, 1873, when he began the mercantile business at Stony Point. In the spring of 1879 he moved to Grain Valley. Mr. Cannon ownes 129 acres of land, all improved. April 11, 1871, he married Miss Mary E. Dyer, a native of Warren County, Missouri. They have six children: Marshall D., William A., Mary E., Blanche D., Martha A. and Annie S.

Britton M. Capell

Farmer, section 34, post-office Grain Valley, was born October 2, 1815, in Richmond County, North Carolina. His parents were natives of that State, and moved to Simpson County, Kentucky, in 1815. Here Britton was reared and educated in the subscription schools. When seventeen years of age his father apprenticed him to the cabinet maker's trade, at which he worked two years; afterward followed the trade five years. He turned his attention to farming, and immigrated to this county in the fall of 1839 with limited means, and settled on the farm on which he now resides, con^^isting of 460 acres. When Order No. II was in force he moved to Lafayette County, and resided there two years; then returned to his farm. Mr. Cannon has one of the finest farms in the county. He has been an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church since 1833, and has held the positions of steward and class leader for several years. In early days his house answered the purpose of a church. December 16, 1834, he married Miss Sarah A. Clayton, a native of Logan County, Kentucky, born January 20, 1814. She was reared and educated there, and died September 9, 1871. They had eight children, six of whom are living: Bennetter A., Susan R. (now Mrs. Wm. Kirby), Mary M., Martha J. (now Mrs. J. T. Wright), John O. and Trusten P.

Adam Christison

Retired, was born in Mercer, now Boyle, County, Kentucky, August 18, 1794, In 181 7, he came to Missouri, and first settled in Howard County, and in 1820, moved to Boone County. In the fall of 1825, he came to where Independence now stands, where he took a claim and remained till 1838, when he moved to Platte County, Missouri. In 1856 he moved to Jefferson County Kansas, where he remained till 1863, when he moved to Leavenworth, and there resided till 1866. Then moved to Vernon County, Missouri, and in 1876, returned to Jackson County, where he has since resided. Since that time he has lived a retired life, but previously had followed farming from boyhood. He was married August 6, 1816, to Miss Margaret Silbers, a native of North Carolina; she died in Jefferson County, Kansas, in 1859. They had seven children, four of whom are living: John, Tolan McC, Wilborn, and Marion. He was again married October 7, 1866, to Mrs. Fannie Cadle, who died in 1876. John Christison, a son of Adam

Christison, was born in Howard County, Missouri, January, 19, 1819. He remained with his father during all his moves till May, 1843, when he was married, in Platte County, to Miss Margaret Russell, of Jackson County, and in 1845 located in the latter county. Here he remained till 1849, then returned to Platte County. In 1859, he moved to Jefferson County Kansas, and in 1862, moved to Buchanan County, Missouri. In 1865, he again went to Platte County, and remained during the winter, and returned to Jackson County and located on a farm where he now resides, in section 27. His farm consists of 210 acres. They have had ten children, six of whom are living: Amanda P., James M., Charles T., Francis, John W., Louis A.

Grocer, Blue Springs, was born in Henry County, Virginia, November 24, 1840, and was partly reared on a farm. During the ' remainder of his boyhood he worked in a tobacco factory. In the spring of 1861, he enlisted in the Confederate service in Company H, 24th Virginia Infantry, and remained about fifteen months, then was discharged. Soon after, he enlisted in Company I, 24th Virginia Cavalry, serving until the close of the War. While in the battle of Cold Harbor, he received a slight wound by a minnie ball in the left thigh. In 1868 he moved to Castersville, Georgia, where he was engaged in the mercantile trade till 1870, when he came to Jackson County, Missouri, and began in the mercantile trade at Buckner, and there continued till 1876, when he moved to Independence, where he continued business until February, 1879; then began at his present location. Was married September 22, 1872, to Miss MoUie Kimberlain, born in Boyle County, Kentucky. She came to Jackson County when about four years of age. They have had three children, two of whom are living : Frederika and Jay Gould.

Farmer, section 33, post-ofifice Blue Springs, was born in Fayette County, Ohio, January 18, 1830 His father was a native of Ireland, and was there reared, and when about twenty-one years of age, he came to America, being one of the first settlers in Fayette County, Ohio. His mother was also a native of Ireland. Our subject was educated in the common schools of his native county, where he was reared, and has followed farming from boyhood, except about three years when he was engaged in teaching. He moved to Jackson County, Missouri, in the spring of 18/0, where he has since resided. His farm contains eighty acres. He was married in February, 1852, to Miss Barbara Rowe, a native of the same county as himself. They have had fourteen children, eleven of whom are living : Sarah C, Elizabeth J., David H., Mary L., Josephine E., Margaret E., Annie E., Eliza A., Jesse E., Clara and Herbert A.

Rev. J. G. Dalton

Minister of the Cumberland Presbyterian church, section 22, post-office Pink Hill, was born in Greenbrier County, Virginia, June 7, 1824, and there remained on a farm till he was fifteen years of age. In 1858 he immigrated to Jackson County with his parents, and was educated in the common schools. In 1847, he chose the ministry as his profession, and in 1849 ^^-^ licensed to preach, and in 1852 was ordained. Since then he has been actively engaged in preaching. In the spring of 1863, he moved to Nebraska City, Nebraska, where he remained till June, 1865, when he returned to Jackson County. His landed estate consists of 100 acres, forty of which, his home farm, are well improved. He was married November 30, 1865, to Lucy J. Crump, a native of Jackson County, Missouri, born November 10, 1842. They have three children : Samuel G., Mary E., and Paulina A.

Physician and surgeon, section 20, post-office Grain Valley, was born in St. Charles County, Missouri, March 4, 1834, and when but two years of age his parents moved to Jackson County, where he was reared. He attended the common schools of the county, also the Chapel Hill College in Lafayette County, entering in 1 850 and attending twenty months. Then under the gold excitement, he started to California and there remained about four months. After his return to Jackson County, in the year 1853, he chose the profession of medicine and first began its study under Dr. Porter, of Lone Jack. One year later he studied under Dr. Gregg, continuing from 1.855 to 1858; he was also engaged in the mercantile trade at Kingsville, Johnson County. In the fall of i860 he went to Cincinnati and attended the Physio-Medical College, attending the session of 1860-61. In the spring of 186 1 he went to New Albany, Mississippi, where he was engaged in his practice till July 4, 1861, when he enlisted in the Confederate service as a medical officer of Company A, 3rd Mississippi, being assistant surgeon from December, 1861, till after the battle of Shiloh, in April, 1862. He then joined General 3ra-gg, at Alabama. Leaving the army at Danville, Kentucky, at the time of Bragg's raid through Kentucky, he remained in Caldwell County, Kentucky, engaged in teaching school and pursuing his studies till February, 1865. Then returned to Jackson County, Missouri, where he has since been engaged in his practice. Was married July 18, 1855, to Miss Nancy King. They had one child (now deceased). Was married again September 20, 1867, to Miss Martha A. McGill, a native of Jackson County. They have seven children : John, Julia F., Mamie E., Thomas L., George Huston and Eleanor (twins), and Josiah H.

John Darby

Merchant and postmaster, was born in Oak Grove, May 7, 1836. His education was neglected yet he studied at home and improved every opportunity. He married Miss Mary J. Austin, April 29, 1858. They have nine children: R. Belle, Samuel T. , Robert Winfield, Eliza J., William T., Alice, Mittie, Bessie Bertha. Mr. Darby learned the milling business with his father, and carried it on near Oak Grove, in connection with farming, for many years. He afterward sold out his mill and farm and bought a store and also engaged in stock raising. He was appointed postmaster under Grant's administration and has now served for eleven years. He was in the army for six months. After his discharge he was obliged to live for a while in Platte County to protect himself from Quanlrell's men.

Farmer, section 30, post-office Blue Springs, was born November 24, 1847, in Jacksori County, Missouri, and was here reared; also received his education in the common schools of this county. In 1863-64 he spent his time in Clay County. His farm consists of ninety acres of well improved land. November 19, i868j he married Miss Sarah Luttrell, a native of the same county as her husband. They have had three children: Lulu L., Willis J. and Annie M.

Royal Dunham

Farmer, section 32, post-office Blue Springs, was born September i, 1815, in Mansfie'ld, Tolland County, Connecticut, and received excellent educational advantages Leaving school at eighteen years of age, he worked for four years and was then employed about five years in the Jerome Clock Works. In the fall of 1846 he went to Texas, bemg twenty-five days on the voyage. He was engaged for seven months with Giddings & Harvey's surveying expedition. Then loined the Texas R ingers and took part in the Mexican War, belonging to Cap tain Henry McCollough's company, and served fifteen months on the frontier ,

He took the gold fever in 1849 ^^'^ went to California that fall, and remained six years, engaged in mining, farming and working in lumber. In 1856 he returned to his native home and went from there to Iowa, locating in Marion County on land which he obtained with a land warrant received from the Mexican War, and remained until 1866. Then came to this county and located where he now resides. Was married in August, 1857, to Miss Sarah Ellis, a native of Connecticut. They have five children :Mary E. , Hattie, Albert R., Lucy and Jeannetie.

Was born in Russell County, Virginia, May 21, 1828, and came to Oak Grove in 1857, and for many years was the only physician in that vicinity. He married Miss Ellen J. Fulkerson in Virginia, July 31, 1856. They have five children living: Kate V., Eva E., William J., Frank M. and Charles Dow; lo^t one. Dr. Frick studied medicine and attended the medical department of the University of Philadelphia and graduated in 1853. The doctor ownes a farm, and he gave the railroad company land for depot, etc.; also donated land formills, churches, etc. Through his long and successful practice and the location of Oak Grove on his lands, he finds himself in very easy circumstances. He is a strong Jtfferson Democrat.

Farmer and stock dealer, section 34, post-office Blue Springs, was born in Jefferson County, Virginia, September 12, 1841, and in the spring of 1850 his parents moved to Jackson County, Missouri, and the year following went to Lafayetet County. In the fall of 1865 Mr. Garuhart took a trip to Saline County, where he remained till the fall of 1869, then returned to Lafayette County, and located in Waverly. In 1876 he came to Jackson County. His farm consists of 100 acres, and is well stocked. He was married February 2, 1864, to Miss Rushia F. Tally, born in Jackson County, January 28, 1846. They have had eight children, two of whom are now living: Edward E., born Novembers, 1865, and Mary E., born March 5, 1868.

Silas H. Gibson

Farmer, post-office Blue Springs, was born in Jackson County, Missouri. April 24, 1836, and when sixteen years of age he went to California by ox-team, and was for some time engaged in hunting and working in the red woods. He attended school a short time while there, and was also engaged in the mines for about eighteen months. In 1855 he returned to Jackson County, and began farming. In i860 he went to Pike's Peak, where he mined, having an interest in eight claims called the Colorado Gulch, and now known as Leadville. Returned home the same year, and in 1861 enlisted in the Missouri State Guards. In the spring of 1862 he went to Texas and remained until fall, being under the employ of the Confederate Government; then went to Arkansas, and soon returned to Jaikson County, and then moved to Carroll County. Thence to Shelby County, Illinois, where he remained one season, and returned to Jackson County in the fall of 1865. In February, 1866, he again went to Texas. His farm contains 180 acres. He was married, April 6, 1856, to Miss Elizabeth Slaughter, a native of Jackson County, Missouri. They have had seven children, six of whom are now living : Sarah A., Lucy J., John R., Josiah L., Elizabeth M., Myrtie S. and Mary E.

John Graves

Merchant, Grain Valley, was born December 20, 1852, in Howard Countv, Missouri, was reared on a farm, and attended the common schools. In i869-'7o he attended the State University at Columbia, Boone County, and in 1871 came to Kansas City, where he was employed as clerk in a bank. In the fall of 1874 he commenced the grocery business, and two years later traded this for a farm in

Johnson County, Kansas where he resided two years. Then commenced business at this place ; is engaged in the lumber business and is express agent. His father, E. P. Graves was one of the leading citizens of this County. April 4, 1872, he was married to Miss Ida Porter, a native oif Lexington, Lafayette County, Missouri. They have four children : Porter, Lou, E. P. and Ella.

J. F. Gregg

Grocer, Grain Valley, was born in Stony Point, this county, March 22, 1844, and there received his education. During the War, in the fall of 1862, he and his father were taken prisoners, and were held in confinem'ent some time. J. F. then enlisted in the Missouri State Militia in December, 1862, and served with them until February, 1 863, when he went to Clay County, and in April he met Frank James, and enhsted in Captain Andy Blount's company, remaining with it until fall. He next went to Texas and joined Captain John Jarrett's regiment, and traveled to Shrevesport, Louisiana, where, and on the Mississippi River, he remained for some time. During the winter of 1863, he went to Camden, becoming one of General Shelby's command, and belonged to Ben Elliott's Battalion. In June, 1864, with sixteen men, he made his way to the Missouri River, being slightly wounded while en route, and was a member of General Todd's command until that officer was killed. At the close of the War he held the position of lieutenant, and surrendered at Lexington. Then turned his attention to farming, and on March 17, 1869, was arrested on an old war indictment, and removed to Lexington. Was held prisoner until December following, and on account of disease was bound over until May, 1870, when he was released. Then returned home, and in 1872 went to Texas, returning in the fall of 1877. . Purchasing property in Grain Valley, in the fall of 1880, he commenced in his present business. February 11, 1872, he married Miss Sallie C. Gilliland, a native of this county. They have three children : Estella P. , Lula P. and Samuel T.

M. L. Pi All

Farmer and stock dealer, post-office Pink Hill, section 13, was born in Montgomery, now Powell, County, Kentucky, November 19, 1844, and was reared on a farm. He came to Jackson County, December, 1868, and located where he now resides. His farm contains 270 acres. Was married November 29, 1863, to Miss Sarah F. Steward, who is a native of the same county as her husband. They have been blessed with seven children, four of whom are living: James M., William R., Carrie Lee, and Herschel L. His father, James H. Hall, is a native of Kentucky, where he now resides. His mother, Emily (Thomas), is also a native of Kentucky, and both are of English descent.

Farmer, section 30, post-office Oak Grove, was born January 26, 1842, in Jackson County, Missouri, and lived with his parents until i86r, during which time he acquired such an education as could be given in the common schools. In 1861 he enlisted in the Confederate service; in 1862 was promoted to the position of first lieutenant, serving in that position until the close of the War. In August, 1856, returned to the old homestead. Moved to his present place May, 1867. He now owns 186;^ acres of fine land, 100 acres of which is under a good state of cultivation Mr. Harding was married December 20, 1866, to Miss Parthenia J. Webb by whom he had three children: Adlia, Maud, Oscar G., and John A. His wife having died, he married Miss Mary A. Webb, in 1874, by whom he had two children : Bettie and Nettie.

John M. Harding

Farmer and stock raiser, section 25, post-office Pink Hill, was born in Jackson County, Missouri, October 20, 1843; ^^s reared in his native county on a farm, and attended the common schools of same county. In June, 1861, heenlisted inthe Missouri State Guards, Company H, 14th Missouri. In March, 1862, he enlisted in the 3rd Missouri Artillery, and remained in the service till the close of the War. He was promoted to Corporal 1864. He participated in all the battles that the company was engaged in, which were many; Captain Schuyler Lowe being captain of the company. He was taken prisoner at the battle of Vicksburg, but was paroled in five days. After being discharged from service he returned to his home; at that time his parents were living in Ray County, MissOi ri. He then went to St. Louis and attended Stewart's Commercial College, graduating September 13, 1865. He then returned to Jackson County, and in the following spring taught school, and in the fall went to Pleasant Hill, and began working in a store, where he was engaged as clerk till 1868, when he began in the mercantile trade for himself, which business he pursued till 1870, since which time he has been engaged in agricultural pursuits; owns 445 acres of land. He was married to Miss Mary E. J. Youree, who is a native of Jackson County, Missouri, and was born March 24, 1843. Her father, Francis A. Youree, was a native oj Tennessee and came to Jackson County about 1834.

Farmer, section 23, post-office Grain Valley, was born Aprir24, 1836, in Simpson County, Kentucky, where he was reared and educated. He came to Dade County, Missouri, in the fall of 1856. In the spring of 1857 came to Jackson County and engaged in farming. He enlisted in the Confederate Army in August, 1862, and served until the close of the War, participating in about thirty noted battles, among which were Lone Jack, Prairie Grove, Springfield, Hartsville, Cape Girardeau and others. Was taken prisoner in Lafayette County in Price's raid, and was taken to St. Louis and thence to Alton Where he was released June 21, 1865, when he returned to this county and engaged in farming. His farm consists of eighty-three acres; he also owns town property in Grain Valley. He married Miss Sarah F. Holland, a native of Kentucky. Their marriage ocurred November 30, 1861 ; they have had eight children, seven of whom are living: John M., Annie L., David C, May Bell, Magdalene, David S. and Clarinda M.

Druggist, Grain Valley, was born May i, 1833, in Harrison County, Kentucky. His parents were natives of that State. He was there reared and received his education. He came West in 1855 and settled in Lewis County, Missouri, and remained there until the spring of 1875. He then came to Jackson County and settled on Sec. 27, Tp. 49, R. 30, and engaged quite extensively in the stock business. He came to Grain Valley in October, 1880, and in April, i88r, he corhmenced the drug business. He also keeps a stack of groceries and deals in grain. He married Miss Emma Bowen, a native of Lewis County, Missouri, January 4, 1856. They have four children : Ida M., James P., John T. and William H.

James R. Hudson

Farmer and stock raiser, section 2, post-office Grain Valley, was born July 30, 1833, in this county. He was reared here and received the benefit of a common school education. He spent his boyhood days on a farm, and at present owns a fine farm of 190 acres, 160 acres under cultivation and thirty acres of timber. Being an old settler here he has won the respect of a large circle of friends. He took a trip to California in 1852 and remained there about two and a half years. During the late War he was enrolled among the militia-men at Kansas City and

Independence, for some three months. He took a trip to New Mexico, and spent some three months looking over the country. He married Miss Geneva E. Hamlin, an estimable lady, a native of this State, born April 12, 1843. This marriage occurred April 14, 1859. They have a family of eight children, six of. whom are living : Alice F., Amy B., James O., Page, Hattie M., Frank and Charles S. His mother, Mary P. Hudson, is still living, and is at present in her seventy second year. She came here with her husband in 1833, and has reared a family fo six children.

Green T. Johnson

Blue Springs, was born in Patrick County, Virginia, October 25, 1820. When fifteen years of age. he came to Howard County, Missouri, with his parents, where he remained till the spring of 1836, when they located in Jackson County. During the late War he enlisted in the Confederate service in Co. D, 1st Missouri Cavalry, remaining in service three years, and participated in the battles engaged in by his company. After the close of the War, he returned and found his family driven to Lafayette County, and his farm in a very dilapidated condition, since which time he has been engaged in farming and dealing in stock in Jackson County. Part of the years 1878-9 were spent on the plains in the live stock business. His landed estate in this county consists of 540 acres; also 640 acres in Texas. Was married February - , 1846, to Miss Elizabeth Hall, who is a native of Virginia. They have had four children, only two of whom are living : James R. and CogarW. Cogar W. was born in Jackson County, April 13, 1857, where he has been reared and educated. Was married March, 10, 1880, to Miss Mattie Knight, of Kansas City. They have one child, David Knight.

Larkin J. Johnson

Farmer, section 22, post-ofifice Pink Hill, is one of a family of sixteen children, eleven boys and four girls, all of whom were born in Jackson County, and here grew up, excepting one boy who died when about nine months old; one girl died after she was grown. Larkin J. was born June 6, 1843, and has followed farming during life. His farm, on which he resides, contains seventy-one acres, improved. Also has 107 acres in section fifteen, and twenty-five acres in section nine. He was married February 9, 1864, to Miss Smira E. Dillingham, a native of Jackson County, who was born February 9, 1832. They have had nine children, six of whom are now living : Lucy J., Dora F., Mettie E., Thomas P., Myrtie E. and Elmer.

Farmer and stock raiser, section 11, post-office Pink Hill, was born in Jackson County, Missouri, May 16, 1852, and was here reared and educated; also spfent six months in the South Normal School at Warrensburg, Johnson County. Has always resided in Jackson County, except during the time when Order No. 1 1 was in force, when he was in Lafayette County, Missouri. Has been actively engaged in the stock trade during his life. His landed estate consists of 135 acres. Was married April 25, 1878, to Miss Louvina R. Montgomery. She is a daughter of J. N. Montgomery, and was born m Jackson County.

E. H. Jones

Farmer, section 31, post-office Blue Springs, was born in Amelia County, Virginia, March 26, 1833. When about two years of age his parents moved to Roanoke County, Virginia, where he remained till thirteen years of age, and then came to Jackson County, Missouri, in the fall of 1847. In May, 1856, he went to California, where he remained till February, 1861, and was there engaged in teaming to th e mines. In the spring of 1 86 1 he enlisted in the Confederate service, and by re-enlistments he remained till the close of the War. Was for a short time, at the beginning, second lieutenant ; the remainder of the time, first lieutenant. He participated in about thirty five battles during his time of service. After the surrender he remained in Texas one year, then returned to Jackson County, where he has since resided. His farm contains ninety acres. Was married February 6, 1862, to Mrs. Bettie A Walker whose maiden name was Montgomery. She is a native of Boyle County, Kentucky. They have had three children, one living, Ida M.

Of the firm of Kabrick Bros. , merchants, Pink Hill, was born in Morrisonville, Loudoun County, Virginia, July 7, 1839, and there received his education. In the spring of 1855 he accompanied his parents to Jackson County, Missouri. His father being a carpenter, Joseph commenced to learn that industry, which he followed until the War broke out. He enlisted in the Missouri State Guards, and served one year ; then re-enlisted in the Confederate service in Company B, 6th Missouri Infantry. He was captured at the battle of Champion Hill, May 16, 1863, and was taken to (^amp Morton, and from there to Fort Delaware. There remained until September 20, when he was taken to Point Lookout, and in 1864 to Richmond, where he received a furlough He went to Montgomery and the White Sulphur Springs, and remained in Virginia until April, 1867. Then returned to this county and engaged in the carpenter's trade until the spring of 1871, when he commenced farming. In January, 1879, he embarked in the mercantile business at Pink Hill, and receives a liberal patronage from the public; also holds the position of postmaster. Was married November 18, 1869, to Miss Sarah C. Patterson, of Jackson County. She died February 4, 1873. He married again on the 2nd of December, 1875, Miss Lottie Philips, a native of Warren County, Kentucky. They have one child, George P. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Henry V. P. Kabrick

Farmer and carpenter, section 32, post-office Oak Grove, was born November 15, 1841, in Morrisonville, Loudoun County, Virginia. Immigrated with his parents to Jackson County, Missouri, in April, 1865, where they bought a farm. Worked for his father until 1861, at which time he entered the Confederate service as a private, .continuing in that capacity until the close of the War. He then went to St. Charles County, where his parents were living, and in 1866 returned with them to the old homestead in Jackson County. At this time he learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed until 1872, when he bought a farip. Since that time he has improved about eighty acres of land, owning at the present time ninety-five acres, eighty of which are under a good state of cultivation. He was married November 15, 1870, to Mrs. Frances Moore, a native of Jackson County, by whom he has had three children: Lorena N. J., David George Lee, and Lula Edna.

Conrad Kern

Farmer and stock raiser, section 35, post-office Blue Springs, was born in Germany, May 29, 1834. In the spring of 1852 he came to America, landing at New York, and in the following fall came to St. Louis and from there to Independence, Missouri. He was educated in the schools of his native country. When fifteen years of age he apprenticed himself to the tailor's trade. After working at it in Independence eighteen months, he went to St. Louis, where he was engaged on a steamboat till fall; then returned to Independence. In the spring of 1855 he embarked in the mercantile trade, locating in Blue Springs. In 1861 he enlisted under Jackson's call for State Guards. In January, 1862 was taken prisoner, and released in March, 1862. In the fall of 1862 entered the Federal militia, remaining in service till March, 1863, then went to Kansas City and clerked in a store till 1864, except a short time during the summer. In 1864 he went to Montana, where he remained till 1865, when he returned to Jackson County, where he has since resided and been engaged in farming. His farm contains seventy-five acres, all well improved. Was married November 26, 1857, to Miss Emery Smith ; she is a daughter of Franklin Smith, who was once elected to the Legislature from this county. She was born in this county September 4, 1841. They have had nine children, eight of whom are living: Thomas F., Fred C, Mary E., Edwin C, Joseph Wm., Nettie S., Nancy, and George L.

Mrs. Sarah B. Keshlear

Section 13, post-office Pink Hill. Her maiden name was Riggs, and she is a native of Montgomery County, Kentucky, and was born October 7, 18 17. When about three years of age her parents removed to Boone County, Kentucky, and came to this county in 1829. Was married July 25, 1837, to Jacob Keshlear, a native of St. Charles City, Missouri, born February 12, 1813. He was raised on a farm, and came to this county some time previous to 1829. He died Mayi 16, 1858, leaving a family of eleven children, seven of whom are now living: Mattie A. (now Mrs. Blackman), William G., James C, Joseph B., George B., Jacob B. , and Alice. Since his death Mrs. Keshlear, with the assistance of her sons, has taken care of the farm, which consists of 220 acres of land. By Order No. 11, during the War, she was compelled to leave her farm, but soon afterward returned. Her stock was all taken and she and her sons imprisoned.

Grain Valley, proprietor of Keshlear's Livery Stable, was born July 12, 1855, ^^ this county, and spent his boyhood days on a farm, receiving a common school education. After he became of age he gave his attention to agricultural pursuits until 1875, when he engaged as mail contractor and followed this business four years ; first, between Independence and Lexington, then between Buckner and Pleasant Hill. In 1879 he engaged in the hotel business at Grain Valley, and continued there until i88o. He then engaged in the livery business, and is ever found ready to supply the wants of the public. Was married March i, 1877, to Miss Mary E. Karr, a native of this county. They have one child : Lola F.

George Kriegel

Shoemaker and harness-repairer. Grain Valley, was born March 27, 1842, in France, and accompanied his mother to the United States when six years of age. They landed at New York City and located at New Haven, Connecticut, where they remained some six years. They then moved to Davenport, Iowa, where he attended school, remaining there some three and a half years. He then traveled over the State, and in the spring of 1858 returned to Hartford, Connecticut ; he remained there three and a half years, working at the shoemaker's trade. He then spent about eighteen months in New Haven at his trade ; then went to New York City and there worked some three months, and then returned toNew Haven, and from there went to Lawrence, Kansas; remained there one year, then went to Burlington, Kansas, and remained about four years ; then went to Greenwood County, Kansas, and engaged in farming. He came to Grain Valley in the fall of 1880, and purchased the property he is now located on ; has a cosy little shop, and being a first-class workman he is prepared to give entire satisfaction to the public. He is honest and industrious, and gives his entire attention to his business.

John King

Farmer, stock and grain dealer, was born in Virginia, May 21, 183 1, and came to this county in 1844, and engaged in farming, merchandizing and deahng in stock. , He has 600 acres of choice land near Oak Grove, and nine acres in the village. He married Miss A. C. Freeman, in Cass County, in 1854. They have ten children living: Columbus F., Theo. Richard, Mary, Martin; Myrtie, Wallace, Sally, Herbert and Pearl. Mr. King has been very successful in his business, and having seen the county grow up from its infancy, very well understands what the future will be, and is prepared to take advantage of his knowledge. He is, in addition to his farming interests, engaged in selling organs and in the real estate business, and acting as insurance agent, notary public, etc.

Merchant, post-office Blue Springs, was born in Jessamine County, Kentucky, February 9, 1833. Was educated in the common schools, and since he attained the age of fifteen years, has depended on his own resources for support. When at that age, he began clerking in a store, which occupation he followed while in his native county. In 1853 he came to Jackson County, and engaged in the same business. In 1859 he located on a farm, and remained till Order No. 11, then returned to Independence. During the summers of 1864 and 1865, he was engaged in freighting on the plains, and after the War was engaged in farming till 187 1, when he moved to Independence, since which time he has been engaged in the mercantile trade. He began business in Blue Springs, in March, 1879, and the firm is now doing the leading business in Blue Springs. Was married May 24, i860, to Miss Mary C. Leader. She is a native of Independence, and was born March 4, 1842. They have seven children: Lizzie H., Susie L., Annie M., Charley P., Effie, NeUie, and Gertie B.

C. W. Mock

Of the firm of Mock & Parr, dealers in drugs, groceries and notions. Blue Springs, was born in Platte County, Missouri, October 4, 1851, and remained in his native county till fourteen years of age, when he went with his parents to Danville, Colorado. There they resided nine months, then returned to Missouri, and located in Jackson County. C. W. was educated in the common schools, and after returning from Colorado, he worked on a farm, and studied medicine under his father. Dr. David Mock. In 1877 he begaii in the mercantile trade at Little Blue, where he remained one year, and' while there established the post known as Mock's Store Post-office. He then went to Blue Springs, where he now resides; helped lay off the town, and built the first house, in which he began in the drug trade. He is eminently fitted for this business, having studied medicine for six years. He has also been postmaster since he began business in Blue Springs, the post-office being as fine as any seen in a town of its size. Mr. Mock was married March 13, 1878, to Miss Anna J. Smith, a native of Jackson County. She died November 22, 1878. He was again married February 24, 1881, to Mrs. A. E. Smith. Her maiden name was Knight. She is a native of Jackson County.

Farmer, section 21, post-office Blue Springs, was born in Mercer County, Kentucky, May 17, 1834. His parents, Levi S. and (Sophia W. Crum), moved to Jackson County, Missouri, in the fall of 1846. He was reared on a farm and attended the schools of this county; in 1851 he was engaged part of the time in freighting to Santa Fe, New Mexico, and other points West. In the spring of 1851 he went to California, driving an ox team, where he remained two years engaged in farming and mining; he afterward returned to Jackson County. In the spring of 1856 he took another trip to Mexico; in 1863 went to Nebraska and there remained till the close of the War, when he returned to Jackson County, where he has since resided. His farm contains 120 acres. Was married December 23, 1856, to Miss Eliza S Lowe. She was born in Jackson County, Missouri, December 24, T840. They have had ten children, eight of whom are living : Louvina R., Amber W., Samuel L., Eugene E., John W., Roy, Gratz, and Lealar.

Of the firm of Andrews & Montgomery, dealers in lumber. Blue Springs, was born in Boyle County, Kentucky, February 29, 1836, and the following fall his parents moved to Jackson County, where he was reared. When nineteen years old he returned to Kentucky, where he remained on a farm one year, part of the time attending school; he also learned the carpenter's trade, which he has since principally followed. In the fall of 1862 he went to Quincy, Illinois, and in the spring of 1863 to Nebraska City, where he remained till the close of the War. While there he was engaged at his trade and dealing in lumber, being of the firm of Montgomery & Brown. In March, 1879, he began in the lumber trade in Blue Springs, shipping the first freight over the Chicago & Alton Railroad west of Higginsville. Mr. Montgomery was married October 2, 1858, to Miss Susan E. Gibson, of Jackson County, Missouri.

Elisha Moore

Farmer and stock raiser, section 26, post-office Grain Valley, was born in Bourbon County, Kentucky, July 27, 1836. When about five years of age his parents moved to Jackson County, Missouri, where he was reared and educated. In 1863 he enlisted in the Confederate service. Company K, 2nd Missouri Cavalry; in 1864 he was promoted to the quartermaster's department, which position he filled till the close of the War, when he returned to Jackson County. His farm contains 140 acres, his house and surroundings being inviting and pleasant. Was married September 8, 1859, to Miss Mary Meador. She is a native of Jackson County. They have five children : Lucy, MoUie, William, Albert Lee and Richard.

Farmer, section 16, post-office Blue Springs, was born in Rappahannock County, - Virginia, in 1839, and was reared on a farm, receiving his education in the common schools. In 1870 he came to Missouri and settled in Lafayette, where he resided one year and then removed to Sni-a-bar township this county. He occupied J. Walker's farm for one year and then bought the same; his property now consists of fifty acres on section ig, improved, ten acres of timber on section 18, and seventy-six acres where he resides. Mr. Morrison has been twice married. First, in 1872 to Miss K. J. Bell, who died in 1876, leaving one child, J. E. In 1877 he was married again, to Miss Mary J. Slaughter, in this township.

A. F. Money

Farmer, section 19, post-office Blue Springs, was born October 31, 1849, Spencer County, Kentucky. Our subject spent his boyhood days on a farm in his native county, and received his education at Shelby County Academy, Kentucky. After completing his education, he returned to his native county and engaged in farming. He came to this county in February, 1881. He owns a beautiful farm containing 130 acres which nature has supplied with living springs. Was married October 31, 1876 to Miss Jennie Sleadd, a native of Shelby County, Kentucky ; she was reared and educated in that county. They have one child : Maggie.

Alma Owen

Farmer and stock dealer, section 5, post-office Lake City, was born in Tazwell County, IlUnois, August 5, 1833, and in 1836 his parents moved to Caldwell

County, Missouri, and remained about two years, then returned to McLean County, Illinois, where they resided three years, and soon went to Marshall County, Illinois. After becoming of age, he went to McLean County, where he learned engineering and milling, and followed the same for several years. In November, 1866, he came to Jackson County. His landed estate consists of 420 acres on which is located the finest house in the township. His farm is well adapted to stock raising, in which business he is principally engaged. He was married November 28, 1858 to Miss Sebethnie Barnhouse. She was born in Darke County, Ohio, October 13, 1840. They have six children : Charles H., Edward J., William H., Frank A., Ida M. and an infant.

J. K. Parr

Of the firm of Mock & Parr, dealers in drugs, groceries and notions, was born in Licking County, Ohio, August 7, 1844. When about nine years of age, his parents moved to Franklin County, Ohio, and there remained till he was thirteen years of age, and then moved to McDonough County, Illinois. Was reared on a farm, and educated in the common schools. May, 1861, he enlisted in Company B, 1 6th Illinois Infantry, and remained in service till the close of the War. In the spring of 1863 he was promoted to corporal and in 1865 was promoted to captain, but was not commissioned on account of the close of the War. He then returned to Illinois. In 1868, he went to Osage County, Kansas, where he rememained one year, and in the fall of 1869 came to Jackson County, where he remained till the fall of 1875, when he returned to Cowley County, Kansas, and remained about eighteen months then went to Colorado, where he remained six months when, in T878, he again came to Jackson County and began in the mercantile trade at Blue Springs, and continued the same till the spring of 1879, when he sold out and began dealing in grain and keeping hotel. April, 1 88 1, he became the partner of C. W. Mock; is marshal and collector of Blue Springs. Was married, November 22, 1865, to Miss Isabell Knox, a native of Pennsylvania.

Joel Patterson

Farmer and bridge contractor, section 25, post-office Grain Valley, was born in Surry County, North Carolina, June 19, 1816. Was reared and educated in his native county, and there remained till the fall of 1836, the time of his immigration to Jackson County, having come by land, and being sixty days on the road. He was for several years engaged in milling, both saw and grist mills. His mill at one time being burned his loss was about $2,000. By Order No. 11 he moved to Carroll County, where he remained about six months and returned to Jackson County, since which time has been farming and bridge contracting. His farm contains 124 acres. Was married September 8, 1833, to Miss Sarah Patterson; she is a native of same county as himself. They have had ten children ; three only are living : Jesse, Joel B. and Mollie.

Hugh A. Porter

Farmer, section 29, post-office Blue Springs, was born January 27, 1826, in Rutherford County, Tennessee, and in 1833 his parents immigrated to Cass County, Missouri, and remained there until 1846. Hugh received his education in the common schools of this county, and assisted his father on the farm. He came to Jackson County and engaged in farming. In the spring of 1850 he went to Colorado, engaged in teaming, and returned to this county in 1853, where he has since resided, excepting about four months spent with the State Militia. His farm contains 320 acres of well improved land. He was married to Miss Susan M. Gibson September 28, 1854. She is a native of this county. They have had eleven children, nine of whom are living: Sarah E. (now Mrs.

J. K. Reid

Farmer and stock raiser, post-office Blue Springs, was born July 26, 1843, in Delaware County, Ohio, and was reared there as a farmer, and received his education in the common schools. In October, 1861, he enlisted in Company D, 20th Ohio Infantry. He was taken sick at Pittsburg Landing, just after the battle of Shiloh, and was sent home, where he lay sick some eighteen months, and was discharged in the fall of 1862. He went to Illinois in the spring of 1864, and farmed one season in Starke County. On the r2th of October, 1864, he enhsted in Company A, 31st Illinois, and served till the close of the War, and participated in the batdes of Fort Donelson, Shiloh and many others. He returned to Starke County, Illinois, and engaged in farming. In the spring of 1866 he went to Colorado, and visited most of the Territories, and was engaged in trading with the Indians. He settled in Jackson County in the fall of 1868, and has been engaged in farming and stock-raising since; he stands among the leading citizens of the county. He was married October 23, 1870, to Miss Matilda A. Care, a native of this county, daughter of John Care, a native of North Carolina, who was one of six men who were taken out and shot near Lone Jack during the War. They have four children: Mary V., Lucy O., Ella W. and Georgie B.

John Riederen

Miller, Oak Grove, was born in Switzerland, February 18, 1836, and in r84S came to this country with his parents, who pre-empted a claim of 160 acres in Washington County, Wisconsin, and in 1847 built a saw mill and in 1851 a grist mill. Although but fifteeri years old, John took charge of the mill and made improvements, until finally the property was sold at a large advance. In 1857 he bought 160 acres of land, but not being satisfied with farming, in 1857 he built a saw mill, with a corn burr attachment, continuing until 1861. Then moved to Holten, and in company with another person, erected a steam mill. In 1865 he went to Sheboygan, Wisconsin, bought a hotel, which he soon sold at a profit, and in 1866 bought a farm on the Delaware River. He was engaged in building mills for some time, losing a few by fire, and in 1872 resumed milling, but sold out in 1880 and came to Oak Grove, where he is following his trade. June 22, 1857, he was married to Miss Elizabeth Gilbert. They have had nine children : Caroline, Andrew, Emma, George, John, Louisa, Hattie and Mary.

Farmer, section 28, post-office Blue Springs, was born in Fayette County, Ohio, November 17, 1837, and was educated in the schools of that county. In the spring of 1862 he' enlisted in the Union Army, in Company G, 73rd Ohio; he enlisted as a member of a brass band, and played during the War, and was discharged July, 1865, when he returned to his native county. In the spring of 1868, he immigrated to Jackson County, Missouri.. Has followed farming from boyhood, and is at present dealing in stock. His farm contains 160 acres. He was married September 15, 1874, to Miss Viola L. Mayes, a native of Kentucky. They have one child, William Guy.

Farmer and apiarist, section 28, post-office Grain Valley, was born in Fayette County, Ohio, June 3, 1841, and was there reared. In 1 861, he enhsted as a member of a brass band in Company G, 73ijd Ohio, and served till the close of the War, when he returned to Ohio. The band of which he was a member, received the prize for playing before the President's residence, at Washington City.

In 1867 he embarked in the mercantile business in Staunton, Fayette County, Ohio, and was there engaged one year, when he came to Jackson County, Missouri. Since then he has been engaged in farming and operating an apiary. His farm contains ninety acres, with one of the finest houses of the township. He was married, March 3, 1873, to Miss Carrie Woodruff. She was born in Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania, in January, 1840, and was educated in the State Normal School of Pennsylvania, graduating in 1861. In 1868 she went to Nebraska, where she remained one year, and went to Kansas, there remaining one year ; then came to Independence. While in Nebraska and Kansas she was engaged in teaching school, also after coming to Independence, she was employed in the High School. They have two children: George C. and Truman.

Farmer, section 18, post-office Oak Grove, was born January i, 1827, at Darmstadt, Germany, and in the spring of 1848, emigrated to America. He settled first in Wabash County, Illinois, and then moved to Missouri (Wert County) in the fall of 1852. In 1868 he moved to Jackson County, when he bought the farm on which he now lives. He owns 160 acres, about 100 of which are under cultivation. Mr. Seitz was married in April, 1851, to Miss Deborah Morse, a native of Illinois, by whom he has had six children : Eliza A. , Mary H. , Lovina A., John H., James P. and George J.

Andrew Shrock

Proprietor of Hotel, Oak Grove, was born in Tuscarawras County, Ohio, November II, 1836, and moved to Indiana in 1847, and to this county in 1870. He married Miss Julia A. Working, in Miami County, Indiana, October 6, 1861. They have three children living: Mary Susan, Phileta and Charles B. ; lost three. Mr. Shrock was engaged in farming, milling, etc., until he came to this place, when he opened a boarding house, which has grown into the new hotel. . Mr. and Mrs. Shrock are active Methodists, and lose no opportunity in lending a helping hand to advance the interests of the church. Mr. Jacob Working, the father of Mrs. Shrock, was born in Germany, and came to this country in 1830, and in 1853 came to this place and bought 100 acres of land, a portion of which is now a part of the village of Oak Grove. He was a very worthy man and esteemed by all. He was a true Union man, but never obtruded his views upon any one; yet for holding these views, he was shot down by his neighbors, while chopping wood at his own door.

Samuel Stewart

Farmer, section 18, post-office Blue Springs, was born in Robinson County, Tennessee, October 14, 182 1, and when about seven years of age, his parents, John and Agnes (Warren) moved to Macoupin County, Illinois, where he was reared on a farm. When sixteen years of age he learned the blacksmith trade, and followed it about twelve years; was also engaged in farming and raising stock in Illinois till 1875, when he moved to Jackson County, Missouri; remaining one year in Independence, and then came to his present location ; his farm contains 120 acres. Was married June 24, 1842 to Miss Lucy A. Wardrip, a native of Kentucky. She died December 4, 1845, leaving Elizabeth A. , Almarinda, J. W., Louisa, Franklin and Ada.

William E. Surface

Farmer, section 8, post-office Lake City, was born in Montgomery County, Virginia, December 2, 1819, and remained in his native county till thirteen years of age. In 1832 his parents moved to Indiana and located in Johnson County near Indianapolis. Wm. E was reared on a farm and was engaged in farming and teaching school until September 6, 1862, when he enlisted for one year in Com- pany K, 99th Indiana; was mustered out in August 1863. In 1868 he moved to Jackson County, Missouri. His farm contains 200 acres, and he makes a specialty of raising fruit, having about 1,000 trees. He -was- married August 3,

1843, to Miss Maria St. John, a native of Johnson County, who was born October 5, 1822. They have had seven children, four of whom are now living John M., Elmer E., Eliza J. and Laura E.

W. J. Surface

W. J. SURFACE, Farmer, section 8, post-office Lake City, was born in Johnson County, Indiana, January 19, 1844, and was reared on a farm and followed farming in his native county till 186 1. In September of that year he enlisted in the Federal service in Company F, 7 th Indiana Infantry, and participated in the battles of Green Brier, Winchester and Cedar Mountain, where he was wounded August 9, 1863, in his left limb which necessitated amputation. He was taken to the Mansion House, Alexandria, where he remained nine months, after which he returned to Indiana. Remaining there till 1869, he immigrated to Jackson County, Missouri. He was married in July 1864, to Miss Eliza J. Surface. They have five children: Melinda A., Annie L., Myrtie M., Theresa and Windel B.

Of the firm of Hoover Jones & Co., stock dealers. Blue Springs Mills. He was born in Alleghany County, Pennsylvania, October 18, 1843, and when about four years of age his parents moved to Hancock County, Illinois. When he was nine years old they moved to Linn County, Missouri ; his mother having died while in Illinois. At the age of eleven our subject left home, and came to Jackson County, since which time he has relied wholly on his own efforts. In the spring of i86i he enlisted in the State's service under Captain Rennick, for six months, and then re-enlisted in the Confederate service under Captain Webb and served with him about two years. He received two slight wounds, and was .taken prisoner, but held only a short time. Since the close of the War he has been dealing in stock. His landed estate consists of 210 acres. Was married September 10, 1866, to Miss Missouri A. Jesse, who was born in Jackson County, Missouri, October 6, 1843. They have had five children, one now living, Ella Lee.

E. B. Tucker

Farmer, section 34, post-office Blue Springs, was born in Benton County, Missouri, October 3. 1848, and was four years of age when his parents moved to Jackson County, where he was reared and educated. He has followed farming from boyhood, excepting the time when he was working in a saw mill. His farm consists of sixty acres. Was married December 23, 1873, to Miss Mary Stanley. She was born where she now resides April 5, 1846. They have had three children, one now living, Lulu J.

John A. Tucker

Farmer, section 3, post-office Blue Springs, was born in Benton County, Missouri, November 25, 1842, and when about ten years of age his parents moved to Jackson County. During the late War he was in the service of the State guards, 3rd Missouri. In August 1862, he re-enlisted in the Confederate service, in Company D, 2nd Missouri, Cavalry, and served till the close of the War. In the fall of 1862 he was promoted to sergeant. Since 1865 he has been engaged in farming in Jackson County; his farm consists of 140 acres. Was married January 28, 1866, to Miss Susan Stanley, born in Jackson County, in January,

A. J. Walker

Farmer, section i8, post-office Blue Springs, was born in Jackson County, Missouri, September r, 1836, and was here reared, and was engaged in farming till the fall of 1863, excepting the time when he was engaged in freighting. In October, 1863, he went to Texas, where he remained till the spring of 1864, and then went to Mexico where he resided about nineteen months. Took a trip to California, remained about two years, and during this time went to Oregon. In March, 1867, he returned to Jackson County where he has since been engaged in farming and dealing in stock, having an interest in a large herd of cattle in the Cherokee Nation ; his farm contains seventy-eight acres. Was married April 12, i860, to Miss Elizabeth Braden, of Missouri; she died in 1874. They had four children: Lucy A., Andrew J., Polly J., and Eliza E. Was married November 25, 1875, '^o Miss Eliza Hannon, of Missouri ; she died 1879, leaving four children, three of whom are living : Morgan and Monroe, (twins), and Edward E. Was married February 18, 1880, to Miss Fannie Warren, of Missouri.

T. J. Walker

Druggist at Blue Springs, was born in Jackson County, Missouri, July 17, 1857, and received the advantages of a common school education. In the fall of 1876 he entered the State University, and there remained till the spring of 1879, and the same year he attended Spalding's Commercial College at Kansas City, graduating in August, 1879. During the following winter he taught school, and in the spring of 1 880 he embarked in his present business.

Captain John A. Webb

Dealer in hardware, farm implements, etc., was born in Jackson County, October 8, 1836, and was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools. His father, Allen Webb, was a native of North Carolina, as was also his grandfather, Joseph Webb, who immigrated to Jackson County in 1838. His mother, Margaret" (Shelby), was a native of Virginia. From 1856 to '61 John A. was engaged in traveling over different States and Territories. In May, 186 1, he enlisted in the Missouri State Guards, and remained till they were dismissed, during the time acting as second lieutenant. He then returned to Missouri, and helped to organize a company of Confederates and was elected captain of the same and served during the War, in Shelby's command, participating in some sixty battles. Was wounded at the battle of Cane Hill, by a ball passing through the left part of his neck, and was disabled about three months. After returnihg to Jackson County he began farming, and moved to his present location in February, 1880, and embarked in his present occupation. Was married February 8, 1866, to Miss Rogers, a native of Jackson County, who died August 26, 1877. He was agMin married September 15, 1879 to Miss Laura P. Philips, who is a native of Texas.

Judge Albert G. Williams

Farmer, section 17, post-office Blue Springs, was born in Simpson County, Kentucky, December 9, 1835. His father. Judge William J. Williams, was a native of Sumner County, Tennessee, and moved to Kentucky at an early day. He was a lieutenant in the War of 181 2, and was in the last engagement of the battle of the Thames. He also represented the county in the Legislature for several terms; was judge of the county for anumber of years, and was one of the commissioners in the founding of the county seat of Franklin, Kentucky. Albert was reared in his native county till seventeen years of age, and in 1852 he came to Jackson County, Missouri, on a visit; at this time he determined to make Jackson County his future home. Then spent about eight months on the plains, and returned to this county and was engaged in teaching school for some time. Next engaged in farming, and in 1858 he was elected constable, which office he filled till the winter of 1861 ; at the same time -he acted as deputy sheriff. During the War he was in the militia about six months. Then he went to St. Louis, and remained there and in Illinois till the spring of 1863, when he went to the plains and Denver. There remained till 1865, when he returned to Jackson County. In 1874 ^^ ^^^ elected a member of the county court, serving two years, and has also held other minor offices. From 1877 to 1880 was engaged in handling grain and live stock, since which time he has made farming his entire business ; he has a well watered farm of 148 acres. Was married June 3, 1855, to Miss Amanda Gibson, who was born in Jackson County, Missouri, August 17, 1838. They have had eleven children, ten of whom are living : Louisa A., Mary S., Permeha P., Joseph E., RufusL., Albert L., Flora S., Cora E., Rettie A., and Alice Maud.

Blacksmith, Blue Springs, was born in Brown County, Ohio, June 5, 185 1, and when about six years of age his parents moved to Jackson County, Missouri, where he remained till 1863, his father having died in 1862, and his mother while in Ohio. In 1863 his step-mother and family returned to Brown County, and when fifteen years of age he learned the blacksmith trade and worked at it in Ohio till the spring of 1870, when he came to Jackson County and located at Pink Hill. There he worked one year and went to the plains remaining one year; then returned to Pink Hill, since which time he has been engaged at his trade ; moved to his present location in the spring of 1880. Was married November 4, 1873, to Miss Sue Munday, born in Jackson County. They have two children 1 Delbert B. and an infant.

Crittenden Wyatt

Farmer and stock dealer, section 14, post-office Pink Hill, was born December 25, 1819, in Simpson County, Kentucky, and received a common school education. He came to this county in 1850 and has since given his attention to farming and stock-raising, and deals quite extensively in stock. He owns 372 acres of fine land, well improved, and has two good orchards. He has always attended to his own business. Was married in August, 1840, to Miss Winifred Duncan, a native of Simpson County, Kentucky, where she was reared and educated. They have had ten children, seven of whom are living: Emery H., John J. C, Columbus, Joseph M., Frances E. (now Mrs. Mayberry), Sarah J. and Arabella.

D. G. Young

Farmer, section 34, post-office Grain Valley, was born January 15, 1833, in Simpson County, Kentucky, where he was reared and educated. He first visited this county in the fall of i860 and returned to Kentucky in the spring of 1863 and remained four months. Then returned to Wellington, and from there went to Clay County and came to this county in the fall of 1865. Here he has made his home since. He owns 145 acres of well improved land ; also some town property in Grain Valley. He married Mrs. Merinda Karr on the loth of June, 1862. They have two children : Eddie C. and Joseph A. His wife's maiden name was Merinda J. Gibson. She has three children by her former husband : William A., Benjamin F. and M. E.

Farmer and stock raiser, section 8, was born in Lafayette County, Missouri, July 8, 1837, and was a son of Spencer and Rachel Adams, natives of Tennessee, but very early settlers in Missouri; now both dead. He moved to Jackson County in 1864, and has ever, since been engaged in farming. He had no help in starting in life, and at the close of the War, all the property he possessed was one old pony. But, with a good constitution and a determined will, he went to work, and by industry and perseverence, he has secured a fine home of ninetytwo and one-half acres, well improved and stocked. He enlisted as a member of Colonel Hays' Regiment, under General Price, and served with him till after the battle of Lone Jack, where he was severely wounded. He is known as the king of fox hunters, having within the last year, captured tweny-two foxes. At the beginning of the War, he lost everything he had, besides having been security for others, which debts he afterward had to pay. He was married February 16, 1859, to Mary Ann Cantrell, who was born in Lafayette County, August 21, 1840; she was a daughter of Christopher and Narcissa Cantrell. There have been seven children born, to-wit: Martha Jane, born December 20, 1869, married and living in Jackson County; Wilhe Ann, born July 20, 1862; Mary Ellen, April 16, 1867; Rachel Narcissa, September 15, 1870; Sarah C, February i, 1872; Minnie Belle, March 21, 1874; and Lilly May, October 13, 1876.

Eastham Allen

Farmer and stock raiser, section 9, was born in Garrard County, Kentucky ; March 11, 1825, and was a son of Erasmus and Lucy Allen, both natives of Kentucky. Our subject received his education in Kentucky, and lived there until 1856, then located in Missouri, where he has since lived, engaged in farming. At the beginning of the War, he enlisted as a member of Colonel Hays' Regiment, under General Price, and served four years with his regiment in the many engagements in which it participated, serving as orderly sergeant. He has served the public in many official capacities, as postmaster, assessor, school officer, and justice of the peace, which office he still fills He is an earnest advocate of good schools and a liberal education. At the beginning of the War, he had accumulated considerable property, but, like many others, lost nearly all of it. He now has a comfortable and pleasant home, well improved; also some fine stock. He and his wife are consistent members of the Christian Church. He was married September 16, 1852, to Margaret Jane Arnold, a daughter of Isaac and Jane Arnold. She was born in Garrard County, Kentucky, January i, 1827. By this union four children have been born, to-wit: Isaac, born October 7, 1853, married and living in Carroll County; Erasmus, born June 18, 1855, now a miner in Leadville; John, born January 26, 1858, married on December 19, 1880, to Miranda Jane Bailey, a native of Jackson County, and born September 13, 1863. This son and his wife are living with his parents, and managing the farm. Lucy Jane, born November 24, 1861, married and living in Johnson County.

Farmer, and stock dealer. The subject of this sketch is a native of Brown County, Ohio, and was born December 19, 1835. He was reared and educated in Brown County till eleven years of age, then removed to Putnam County, Illinois, and remained there about nineteen years ; then located in Jackson County, Mis- souri in March 1866. While in Illinois he attended, for a number of years, the South Salem Academy in Ross County, Ohio, and there received a very liberal education. He was married March 28, 186 1, to Margaret E. Dysart who was born in Putnam County, Illinois, January 23, 1843. ^Y this marriage eight children have been born, seven of whom are still living: Leslie E. born May 12, 1862; WiUiam A., born November 6, 1864; Frank D., born September 11, 1867; Leola J., born October 29, 1868; Archibald S., born August 29, 1871; Ida May, born April 29, 1874; John C, born April 14, 1877, and Helen, born May 18, 1880, who died in infancy. He had but little help to start in life, but by energy, and perseverance has secured a beautiful and fertile farm of 170 acres, and he is noted as the model farmer in the township. Although he carries on his farm in such an excellent manner, yet he makes a specialty of buying and shipping stock. Besides his very arduous labors in managing his farm and his other business, he finds time not only to cultivate his own mind, but takes an active interest in the education of his children. His wife is a lady of refinement and education. They are both members of the Presbyterian Church. Surrounded by a pleasant family and in an excellent neighborhood, well esteemed by all, they have reason to be, as they are, thankful and happy.

Jacob Bennett

Farmer, stock raiser and carpenter. The subject of this sketch is a native of the State of Ohio, and was born May 12 1833. He lived there till 1853, and there received his education, and learned his trade in Cleveland, Ohio. He then came to Missouri and located in Van Buren Township, and has ever since lived here, except two years during the War, and has been engaged in farming and as acarpenter and joiner. He owns a farm of sixty acres, with fine buildings and orchard, and well stocked. He has served for a number of years as school officer, and takes a great interest in educational matters. Both he and his estimable wife are consistent members of the Christian Church. He is a man of fine business qualifications, and is held in high esteem by his neighbors. He was married October 4, 1857', to Elizabeth Cave of Jackson County, who was born August 31, 1837. Six children have been born, five of whom are still Hving : George born July 24, 1858, now a member of Warrensburg Normal School; Price born July 17, i86i, now salesman in Kansas City; Ella W. born September 4, 1864, and died November 16, 1874; Gius born February 24, 1868; Charles born March 10, 1872, and Frank bom February 10, 1875.

Farmer and stock raiser. In this sketch we have to speak of one of the oldest and most highly respected citizens of Van Buren Township. He was born in Rutherford County, North Carolina, July 17, 1822. At the age of fourteen he came with his parents, and a company of seventy-five others, to Missouri, and located at Lone Jack. Here his father owned 520 acres of land where the town of Lone Jack now stands. They landed here in Miy, 1836, and out of the entire company that then came, there are only four or five now living. He only had the opportunity of going to school a few weeks in his life, yet he is one who has gathered up a great deal of useful information, and is often consulted by those who have had better opportunities to store their minds with knowledge. He is a son of Pomfrey Bynum, a native of South Carolina, but one of the pioneers of Jackson County, Misssouri. His father lived here until 1846. There were nine children in his father's family, only three of whom are now living : the subject of our sketch and his brother, Thomas, now in Oregon, and his sister Catharine, now the wife of George Oldham of Benton County, Missouri. Few men enjoy so much of the public confidence and so many warm friends as our subject. He was married September 29, 1842, to Charlotte Cave, of Jackson County, but formerly of Surry County, North Carolina, and born October 6, 1818. She is a daughter of Bartlett Cave, one of Jackson County's old pioneers. The fruits of this marriage have been six children, three of whom are still living : Robert, born March 24, 1845, living near home; William, August 22, 1847, died at the ageof eight years; Galen C, September 29, 1849, died at the age of twenty-four years; James P., January 8, 1852, living near home; Bettie, October 6, 1855, died in infancy ; John W., November 3, 1859, living at home. Mr. Bynum owns a finely cultivated farm of 156 acres, with good improvements and an excellent orchard.

William Cash

Farmer and hotel-keeper. Lone Jack, Missouri, was born in Wilkes County, North Carolina, April 16, 1815, and was a son of Lewis and Mary Cash. At an early age he moved with his parents to Lincoln County, Kentucky. Lived in Lincoln County till about seventeen years of age, then learned the blacksmith trade and went to Lexington, and remained for three years working at his trade ; thence to Brucken County, Kentucky, and worked at his trade for about seven years. He was married July 7, 1840, to Miss Ehzabeth Duncan, who was born in Pendleton County, Kentucky, October 3, 1823, she being a daughter of Thornton and Mary Duncan. This couple then moved to Harrison County, and remained there till they moved to Missouri, in 1856, when they settled in Benton County, and lived there eight years ; thence to Cooper County, Missouri, and remained there until 1877, when they located in Lone Jack. To this family eleven children have been born, six of whom are still living : Thornton, born October 10, 1843, now a blacksmith in Lone Jack ; Oscar, October 13, 1845, also a blacksmith in Lone Jack ; Mary E , November 10, 1847, now married and living in Benton County, Missouri; Milton, May 4, 1853, married and living in Lone Jack, and has charge of the drug store of George T. Shawhan; Ellen, April 29, 1858, living at home, and John H., January 8, 1861, living in New Mexico. At the beginning of the War he was possessed of considerable property, but, like many others, he lost it all, and at the close of the War had to begin anew. But by care he has again secured a comfortable home in the village of Lone Jack.

Thornton Cash

Lone Jack, Missouri, was born in Harrison County, Kentucky, October 10, 1843; lived there till 1856, then moved with his parents to Benton County, Missouri. When but a child he was continually in the blacksmith shop with his father, who was an excellent mechanic, and he would work on the anvil when he had to have a large block to stand upon. He, in this way, intuitively learned the trade which he has ever since followed, and he is an artisan of good ability and skill. At the beginning of the War, although but a boy, he enlisted in the Confederate Service and served faithfully and well during the War. He participated in the battles of Pea Ridge, Helena, Prairie Grove, Lone Jack, and a number of other engagements and skirmishes. He was taken prisoner at Fort Smith, Arkansas, and kept for a short time. After the close of the War, he went to the mountains and remained there for some time, and then returned to Missouri, and on February 5, 1866, was married to Miss Mary Dawson, who was born in Benton County, Missouri, May 24, 1846. He has been blessed in his family, eight chil-, dren haveing been born, and all of them are now living, viz : Oscar J., born October 31, 1866; Jennie A., August 14, 1867; William, January i, 1870; Talitha M., December 28, 1871; Mary Alice, January 25, 1873; Wallace L., September 23, 1875; Daniel L., May 3, 1878, and Georgia E., May 5, 1880. Mrs. Cash is a member of the Baptist Church, and a noble christian wife and mother. Mr. Cash is yet a young man, but has won the'confidence and esteem of many warm friends.

Martin Corn

Farmer, section 25, post-office I.one Jack, was born May 27, 181 3, in Patrick County, Virginia, and resided there on a farm till twenty years of age. He accompanied his parents to this county in 1833, having previously entered the land on which he now resides. He resided some two years in Lafayette County, during the time of Order No. 11. He owns a fine farm of 260 acres, about half of which is under cultivation. He has filled the offices of school director and road overseer. In his manners he is pleasant and agreeable, and has the respect of a large circle of friends. He married Miss Martha Cummings, in 1840. She is a native of this State and was born in 1823. They have had eleven children, six of whom are living: Samuel, George W., Susan F., now Mrs. Brown; Nancy E., now Mrs. Temple; John S., and Louisa, now Mrs. Bale. Himself and wife are members of the Baptist Church.

Of the firm of Dimmitt & Arnold, proprietors of steam saw mills on section 24, was born on the 22nd of March, 1841, in Tippecanoe County, Indiana, and was reared there and in Iowa. He came to this county in 1869, and has been engaged in threshing and the saw-mill business since. He owns a fine farm of thirtysix acres. During the late War, in 1862, he enlisted in the 6sth Illinois, Company E, and served for eighteen months, then re enlisted in the 7th Tennessee, Mounted Infantry, and served about eighteen months; took part in the battles of Antietam, Harper's Ferry, Nashville, and many other minor engagements, serving under McClellan and Thomas. He married Miss Nancy L. Markham in i860. She is a native of East Tennessee and was born on the 2nd of June, 1840. They have had eight children, six of whom are living: Mary T., Sarah J., William W., Ida O., Albert F., and Louisa E.

Stephen H. Easley

Farmer and stock raiser, section 20, was born and reared on the farm on which he now lives, and is a son of Miller and America Easley; his father was a native of North Carolina, and his mother a native of Virginia. His parents were very old settlers, having located on the place now occupied by the heirs, in 1837, and here they lived till they died. The father died April 17, 1868, and the mother December 30, 1879. They left a family of nine children, five of whom are still on the old homestead : Stephen H., the subject of this sketch, born January 18, 1854; Mary, born July 23, 1850; Laura, born May 17, 1852; Achilles, born February 2, 1856; and Albert, born November 14, 1859. The other four children are named and located as follows : Parthenia, wife of Mr. Raggsdale, at Chapel Hill; Susan, wife of Mr. Rice, in Johnson County; Virginia, wife of Dr. Raggsdale, at Lone Jack-; Leonidas, now living in New Mexico. These have all received fine educations, and are persons of refinement and taste. Several members of the family have been very successful teachers. The estate is one of the finest in this part of the country, and consists of 390 acres, well improved and stocked. The family are church members and highly esteemed citizens.

Fred Edmondson

Farmer and stock raiser, section 25, is a native of Jackson County, Missouri, and was born January 23, 1849. He is a son of Julius Edmondson, who was the first white child born in Van Buren Township. His grandfather, Frederick Edmondson, was one of the very earliest settlers of this part of Missouri. Our subject was reared on a farm, and received his education in this township. At the age of fifteen years, he enlisted in the Confederate service, in Williams' Regiment, Missouri Cavalry, and served with his regiment till their surrender at Shreveport at the close of the War. He was with his regiment in manyengagements and scouts, and has endured many of the hardships and trials of a soldier's life ; at one time riding three days and three nights without rest or food. After the close of the War, he returned to Missouri, but being sick and completely worn out, he lay for some time at the point of death, at Waverly, Missouri, but under the care of Dr. McReynolds, of Cass County, (a man who deserves great praise for his kindness in caring for returned soldiers) he finally recovered and the good doctor only charged $i for fifteen days medical treatment. Mr. Edmondson came to Jackson County and remained a short time, then crossed the plains from Nebraska City to Fort Laramie, and by the way of Fort Fetterman and Fort C. S. Smith. He endured many hardships during this nine months' trip, as it was the only train that dared to venture so far that season. He was married on December 20, 1869, to Miss Serilda Edmondson, a native of Andrew County, Missouri, born April 16, 1848, she bemg a daughter of John Edmondson, one of the pioneers of Missouri. In the spring of 1873, ^^ together with his young wife and at that time his only child, made a trip to the Green Horn Mountains in Colorado, and there remained for about one year engaged in the stock business, and then retuned to Jackson County. He has been an extensive traveler and a close observer, having visited nearly all of the western and southwestern States and Territories for the purpose of selecting a place for a permanent home; yet, after all, he has returned to his "first love," and thinks the home farm in Van Buren Township the best; and he certainly ought to be satisfied, for he owns 220 acres that cannot be excelled for beauty of location and fertility of soil, and is surrounded by good neighbors and a happy family. Two children have been born to this family, to-wit: Julius C, July 24, 1871, and Juha, June 3, 1874.

Ambers Graham

Farmer and stock raiser, section 25,. Here we have as the subject of our sketch one of the natives, born in this township and county March 4, 1837, and although now in the forty-fifth year of his age, has never been more than 125 miles from home. He was a son of Daniel Graham, one of the first settlers of Jackson County. He had but very little opportunity for getting an education ; but having an abundance of native talent, he has become a good business man, and one well posted in his business and in the affairs of the county. He takes an active interest in good schools and beheves thoroughly in a liberal education. He has a beautiful home of 120 acres, under a fine state of cultivation, with good buildings and orchards. All this has been gathered together since the War, as at that time he lost everything except his wife and one poor pony that was not worth taking from him. Yet he is one of those happy and contented men who is ever willing to share with a needy neighbor, and, although not a church member, yet he is always ready to give as much as many that are richer, for the cause of Christianity and education. He was married to Sarah J. Stulz on September 13, 1857, she being a native of the same county, and born July 17, 1839. To them have been born three children : MoUie, born June 24, 1866; Lulu, born July 9, 1869; Delia, born June 25, 1872.

George W. Griffith

Farmer and stock dealer, is a native of Mason County, Kentucky, born January 29, 1829, and was a son of John and Mary A. Griffith. His father served in the War of 1812 and participated in the batdes of McHenry and Baltimore; he was of Welsh descent and his mother of German origin. At the age of seven years he came with his parents to Missouri and they located in Lafayette County, and in the spring of 1837 came to Jackson County and settled permanently in Van Buren Township. His father died in November, 1859, and his mother in