Jackson County, Missouri - Biographical sketches, 1920 (part 15 of 15)

During the ensuing winter the family lived on a place one mile south of Levasy. In March, 1860, John D. Ryan settled on the William Isch place, where they resided until the burning of the home, in March, 1863. Then they moved to a place two and a fourth miles northwest of Levasy, where the father died, June 14, 1863. Mrs. Susan J. Ryan was born in 1828, and died in 1867. Six children were left orphans: Mrs. Sarah Frances Vandegriff, now of Cherryvale, Kan. ; Charles W. Ryan, of this re¬ view; Robert R., died in 1910; James A., Silver Creek, Colo.; Samuel, died in 1876; Mrs. Mary H. Costello, lives two and a half miles southwest of Levasy.

The situation in Jackson County not being very favorable for their remaining longer in the county, on account of the war conditions, the Ryan family moved over to Napoleon, in Lafayette County. In the spring of

1864 they returned to the county, and settled on the Dr. Black farm, two miles west of Levasy. In 1866 they settled on the William Hanley farm. In 1868 they removed to Lafayette County, and when the family ties were broken by the death of the mother, Charles W. Ryan began doing for himself, and hired out at farm labor. Mr. Ryan worked at farm labor until he was 2o years of age, and in 1874 he rented a farm for seven years, his sister serving as his housekeeper. In 1882, he went to Colorado, and lemained there for a year. In 1894, he bought his first farm of 60 acres. In 1898, he purchased Fish Island, in the Missouri River, consisting of 530 acres, and farmed this island until the great flood of 1903. This island is now covered with grasses and timber, and Mr. Ryan leases it out for this purpose. In 1913 he retired from active farming, and in 1917 he leased his island to Walter Phillips, of Buckner. For some time Mr. Ryan served as president of the Bank of Levasy.

He is a Democrat, and formerly took an active part in Democratic politics. He is a member of the Christian church, and is one of the well respected and favorably known citizens of his section of Jackson County.

Leo Allen, owner of a fine farm of 120 acres in Fort Osage township, upon which he has resided since the spring of 1903, is an industrious and successful agriculturist. Mr. Allen purchased his farm in 1903, and has remodeled and modernized the residence; in fact, he has transformed the place in many ways, which have added to its value and productivity. The

Mr. Allen was born Jan. 1, 1872, in Ray County, Mo. He is a son of Reuben and Maria (Offitt) Allen, both of whom were born and reared in Ray County, the children of pioneer parents. Reuben Allen was a son of Reuben Allen, of eastern birth and parentage. Reuben Allen, father of Leo Allen, of this review, was born in 1841, and died in September, 1917 Mana Allen, his wife, died in 1875. They were the parents of five chil¬ dren : Louisa Jane, deceased ; Mrs. Lena Rivers Culver, Kansas City Kan * Leo Allen, of this review; William R., Ray County, Mo. In his later years,' Mr. Allen moved from his farm to Excelsior Springs, Mo. From Excel¬ sior Springs, he went to Kansas City, where he remained for two years, and then returned to the farm, where he died. By a second marriage wdth Pocahontas Hewlitte, he w^as the father of five children: Mrs. Rhoda Ann Tresler, Kansas City, Mo.; Thomas B., a farmer in Ray County; John a farmer m Clay County; Bettie, died in infancy, as did another child.

lowed farming pursuits. He was married in 1890 to Miss Paralee Sheriff, who was born in Jackson County, a daughter of Isaac and Helen (Sutton) Sheriff, of Ray County, who now live in Sibley. Mrs. Paralee Allen died in 1908. His second marriage was with Miss Alta Laferne, in 1908. Mrs. Alta Allen and Mr. Allen were separated. In 1915 Mr. Allen married Miss Mattie Belle Mitchell, who was born and reared in Ray County, a daugh¬ ter of Richard and Rebecca Jane (Cowley) Mitchell, the latter of whom is deceased.

Although Mr. Allen is comparatively a new comer in Jackson County, he has a wide and favorable acquaintance throughout his section of Jackson County, and is recognized as an industrious and very successful citizen.

Charles Arthur Johnson, owner of a well improved and finely equip¬ ped farm of 160 acres in Fort Osage township, was born in a log house in Jackson County, on the banks of the Missouri River, Dec. 8, 1878. No trace of the farm upon which he was born remains. It was known as the old Nebuchadnezer Dixon farm, and has since been washed away by the Missouri River.

John Johnson, father of Charles Arthur Johnson, was born in Ohio, in 1854. His wife was Edwina Neal, born in Ray County, Mo. John John¬ son was a son of Henry Johnson, who came to Missouri in the fifties. He resided in Jackson County until 1904, when he went to Arizona. Mrs. Johnson died in 1890. Their children were as follows: Charles A., of this sketch; James, lives in Oregon; Mina, wife of L. J. Jones, Fort Osage township ; Clara, wife of F. C. Harra, cashier of a bank at California, Mo. Mr. Johnson was three times married - a daughter, Edwina, lives with Miss Mina Jones.

Charles A. Johnson was reared in Jackson County, and attended the common schools. When nine years old he began working at farm labor, and he began supporting himself when yet in his teens. He remained at home and assisted his father until he was 22 years old. After his mar¬ riage, in 1901, he rented land. He purchased his farm in the fall of 1904, and moved thereon in March, 1905. He has done considerable improving on the place, one of the new structures being a brick silo. Mr. Johnson is farming a total of 500 acres of land in the vicinity.

He was married on Nov. 6, 1901, to Miss Georgia Wood, born in Jackson County, a daughter of George and Jennie (Crow) Wood, the latter of whom was a daughter of Uncle Jake Crow, one of the best known of the pioneer citizens of Jackson County, and a famous pulpit exhorter. Mr.

Mr. Johnson is a Democrat, and is a member of the Methodist church. His record in the agricultural and livestock raising field of Jackson County speaks for itself. Everything which Mr. Johnson possesses he has earned for himself.

Greenville Hulse, farmer and real estate dealer. Oak Grove, Mo., is a native of Jackson County. He was born on a farm four miles north of Oak Grove, Sept. 13, 1845. His father was Samuel D. Hulse, who was boin in Tennessee, and moved to Kentucky with his parents when a boy. He was reared to young manhood in that State, and came to Missouri about 1833. He first located in Clay County, and in 1840 settled in Sniabar township, Jackson County, where he became the owner of nearly 600 acres of land.

The elder Hulse was married in Missouri, Oct. 15, 1840, to Jane B., a daughter of Griffith Dickerson, a native of Virginia, and a Jackson County pioneer. Samuel D. Hulse was on his way to Missouri on board of a river steamboat, near Wayne City, during the year of the "shooting stars, in 1833. He reared the following children: Mrs. Almeda Perry, died in 1916; Melville, died in Independence, in March, 1919; Greenville, subject of this review; Arista, living at Oak Grove. Samuel D. Hulse

The lure of the great plains drew Greenville Hulse during his younger days, and he became a plains freighter, making trips to the far west in 1863, 1864, 1865 and 1866. His first trip took him to Denver, Colo., in the employ of A. & P. Byrum, the wagon master of the train being John S. Renick. In 1864 he made a trip to Salt Lake City with William Livesay, having spent the previous winter in herding cattle on the Arkansas River. After spending the winter on the Arkansas River, near Pueblo, Colo., he returned^ to Atchison, Kan., and the train was outfitted there. When they arrived at Plumb Creek, on the Platte River, they learned that In¬ dians had captured a train of nine wagons. This caused he and his com¬ rades to redouble their vigilance to guard against a surprise attack from the Indians, and they never relaxed their vigilance night nor day during the remainder of the trip. During 1865, Mr. Hulse freighted to Denver, Julesburg, and other points in Colorado. In 1866, he became part of an out it on the Smoky River, which was hauling supplies to the government forts. On the Crazy Woman's Fork on Powder River, Indians stampeded a train of government mules and killed many soldiers. This trouble was due to the negligence and arrogance of an army lieutenant in command of the soldiers. Nine Indians subsequently followed the train with which Mr. Hulse was connected as far as Fort Laramie, but did not offer to molest them, riding in on a flag of truce.

The year 1866 saw the end of Mr. Hulse's freighting days, and he then settled down to farming and stock raising, in which vocation he has achieved a more than ordinary success. He began with 100 acres, and ac¬ cumulated over 1,000 acres. He has given each of his children a fine farm of 120 acres, and still owns 200 acres of very valuable land, 40 acres of which is located near Raytown, in Brooking township, and likewise near the Kansas City line. Since 1913, Mr. Hulse has resided in Oak Grove, where he has one of the fine residences in Jackson County, and handles farm land and real estate.

April 15, 1869, Mr. Hulse was married to Miss Ida Jane Conard, who was born June 2, 1848, and died Sept. 30, 1908. She was a daughter of Abner A. and Anna S. Conard, who came from their native Virginia to Jackson County in early days. Eleven children blessed this marriage, of whom four died in infancy, the others are: Minnie H., Oak Grove, Mo.; Charles H., a widower, Olathe, Kan.; Delbert T., traveling adjuster for a life insurance company, Mobile, Ala. ; Luella, wife of Charles Morgan, liv¬ ing near Oak Grove on part of the Hulse homestead ; Leroy C., a farmer living on the Hulse land; Melville V., employed by the Standard Oil Com¬ pany ; Elsie A., married Ewing Axline, daughter of Judge Axline, and lives at Wellsville, Kan.

On March 26, 1912, Mr. Hulse was married to Mrs. Georgia F. Guy, a widow, and a daughter of Willis D. Round, of Jackson County. Mrs. Georgia F. Hulse was born near Lone Jack, Mo., April 24, 1869.

Mr. Hulse is a Republican, and is a member of the Methodist church. He is a Jackson County citizen of worth and prestige, and has the respect and high esteem of his fellow men.

Robert Blackburn. - One of the remarkable successes in the agricul¬ tural and livestock field that has been accomplished in Jackson County in the space of a few years, is that of Robert Blackburn, of Fort Osage township. Mr. Blackburn is proprietor of Oak Hill, a place of 160 acres, improved with a large, white house, which sets in a grove of trees, and which is devoted to stock raising. Mr. Blackburn owns in addition to this, 200 acres of rich bottom land near Lake City.

He is a son of McCarter and Angeline (Hogue) Blackburn, natives of North Carolina, who came from their native State in 1861, and settled in Laclede County with their respective parents. They were reared in La¬ clede County. During his later years, the elder Blackburn went to Cali¬ fornia, and still makes his home in that State.

When 19 years of age, Robert Blackbuni came to Jackson County (1896), and worked out as a farm hand. During his first year he received 65 cents per day. He saved all of- his money except a small amount for his school expenses during the winter season. He rented a piece of ground, purchased a pair of mules, and gave his note for $200 for pay¬ ment for the team. He had a bad year, but made some money, and sold the mules at a profit of $15. He rented land for five years, saved his money, and invested it in land. He first bought a tract south of Lake City, consisting of 108 acres, paying $1,000, borrowing the balance of $5,000. He sold this farm a few years later for $100 an acre. He then bought 160 acres at a cost of $125 an acre in 1906. His next purchase was 200 acres in 1914, at a cost of $100 an acre. The Blackburn land is now worth from $250 to $300 an acre.

Mr. Blackburn was married on Oct. 3, 1900, to Miss Ethel Smith, who was boiTi in Laclede County, Mo., a daughter of William and Eglandine Smith, both of whom are decea.sed. Two children have been born to this marriage: Crayton, aged 16 years; and Margaret Eglandine, aged eight year.

Mr. Blackburn is a Democrat. He is a member of the Baptist church, and is affiliated with the Modern Woodmen of America, and the Modern Brotherhood.

George A. James, owner of a splendid farm of 263 acres in Fort Osage township, was born in Jackson County, Jan. 25, 1874. He is a son of the late Julius W. James, who was bom in Indiana in 1837, and died in Jackson County, Mo., in 1905.

Although born and reared to young manhood in Indiana, Julius W. James was a son of Southern born parents. He was imbued with the righteousness of the Southern cause, and acted accordingly. He went to Kentucky and enlisted under the banner of Gen. John Morgan, and seiwed in Tennessee and Ohio, taking part in Morgan's raid through Ohio. He was twice captured, and on two occasions was held in Federal prisons. He fought at the Battle of Murfreesboro and Nashville, and campaigned in the Cumberland Mountains.

and was married in Kentucky, in 1866, after which he came to Jackson County, made a home for his family, and became the owner of a farm. His wife was Emily Gibson James, who was born in 1840, and died in 1907. They were the parents of eight children, six of whom were reared : Lulu, wife of Clinton A. Winfred, of Fort Osage township; Mrs. Emma McMillan, living north of Grain Valley; Nannie and Ida James, live at Buckner; George A., of this review; Ernest, living on a farm near Wood¬ land school.

George A. James was educated in Prairie school, and the Buckner public schools. When he was 23 years of age he rented a farm, and con¬ tinued farming on rented land until he made his first purchase of 85 acres, in 1901. He later sold this farm at a profit, and then bought 121.5 acres of his present farm, in Fort Osage township. Some years afterward he added to this farm another tract of 142.5 acres, situated on the north side of the road. Mr. James is a successful farmer and stockman, and is mak¬ ing a specialty of raising and feeding Hampshire hogs and cattle.

He was married in 1898 to Elizabeth Helen Sullivan, who was born in Jackson County, a daughter of John Sullivan, deceased. Four children were born of this union, as follow: Forrest, Emily, Georgia, and Julius.

Mr. James is a director of the Bank of Buckner, and is a rising, sub¬ stantial citizen of industry and acumen. He is a Democrat, and a mem¬ ber of the Sibley Lodge of Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

John W. Davis, farmer and stockman, proprietor of 162 acres in Blue township, which are owned jointly by Mr. Davis and his sisters, is a mem¬ ber of one of the oldest of the pioneer families of Jackson County. Mr. Davis is living on land which was entered by his grandfather, Joseph Glenn, sometime in the early thirties. He owns 40 acres of the original Glenn homestead. Mr. Davis was bom on the place where he is now liv¬ ing northwest of Atherton, Mo., March 29, 1855.

His father, Albert Davis, was born in Hawkins County, Tenn., in 1832, and died in December, 1876. He was a son of William Davis a native of Hawkins County, Tenn. and whom emigrated from Tennessee to Mis¬ souri in 1848. After he had attained young manhood, William Davis mar¬ ried Maiy Glenn Davis, born in 1820, and died in 1901 at the age of 81 years. She was a daughter of Joseph Glenn, one of the first of the Jackson County pioneers, who first settled in Boone County, Mo., where Mrs. Mary Davis was born and then came to Jackson County.

reared a family of four children, as follow: John W., subject of this re¬ view; Eliza F., housekeeper on the home place; George W., a farmer liv¬ ing in Blue township; and Mrs. Mollie P. Boone, Independence, Mo.

Mr. Davis is a Democrat of the old school. He is industrious, enter¬ prising and is one of the best citizens of his neighborhood. He is a mem¬ ber of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

CIcyd E. Allen. - The Alien-Graves Tire Company, located at No. 213 West Maple street, is one of the thriving commercial concerns of Inde¬ pendence. This firm was organized Aug. 1, 1919, by Cloyd E. Allen and J. T. Graves, and does general tire and tube repair work. They are deal¬ ers in the Gates Half Sole and the Gates Double Mileage Tires, the shop being fully equipped for handling the Gates products and half soling tires according to the Gates method. The Gates Half Sole has a guarantee of 5,000 miles, and will easily give from 6,000 to 10,000 miles of service. This firm also handles the Ten-Broeck tires, and other well known makes, and are building up a splendid trade among automobile owners of this vicinity.

Cloyd E. Allen was bom in Rockville, Mo., April 3, 1896, and is a son of F. R. and Iva D. (Cloyd) Allen, a sketch of whom appears in this volume in connection with that of Capt. William R. Allen. The subject of this sketch was educated in the public schools of Butler, Mo., and dur¬ ing the summer of the past year he has been studying aviation. Mr. Allen made an effort to become a member of the aviation corps of the National Army, and all but succeeded. He was on his way to Kelly Flying Field, in Texas, when the armistice was signed, and the World War came to an end.

While this put a damper upon his ambition to become an aviator in the seiwice of his country, he has been studying the science of flying in the air, and has been flying during the past season in a Curtiss biplane.

Mr. Allen was married July 25, 1918, at Rockville, Mo., to Rogenia Morris, of Rockville, a daughter of T. W. Morris, a produce buyer and dealer, of that place. Mr. and Mrs. Allen have a daughter, Celestine. The Allen residence is at 306 West White Oak street. Mr. Allen is a member of Yeomen Lodge, No. 303, of Independence.

James T. Graves, a member of the firm of Alien-Graves Tire Com¬ pany, 213 West Maple street. Independence, Mo., was bom March 12, 1887, in Woodford County, Ky., and is a son of James C. and Mary E. (Huggins) Graves, a sketch of whom appears in this volume.

Guthrie, Okla., and was brought up in the business of breeding and train¬ ing of harness and saddle horses, a vocation in which his father, James C. Graves, has won a nation-wide reputation. He came to Jackson County in 1914, and for the past two years has been engaged in the business of selling automobile tires. He joined the firm of Alien-Graves Tire Com¬ pany in August, 1919, and is doing his part in making this concern one of the live, aggressive and successful business concerns of the city.

Mr. Graves was married June 12, 1912, to Miss Effie V. Wilson, of Lexington, Ky. Mrs. Effie Graves was formerly a teacher in the com¬ mercial department of Transylvania University in Kentucky. She died in 1916.

Mr. Graves was again married to Miss Louise Sparks, of Nicholasville, Ky., in 1917. She is a daughter of Nimrod and Susan (Huggins) Sparks, who reside at Nicholasville. One child has been born to this mar¬ riage, Mary Louise. By his first marriage Mr. Graves has one child, Valarie Dee.

Jack Sewell, retired farmer, 813 South Park street. Independence, Mo., was born in Shelby County, Ky., March 28, 1864. Dr. Franklin Lewis Sewell, his father was born in Fairfax County, Va., in 1825, re¬ moved with his parents to Kentucky, was educated for the profession of medicine and in 1871, migrated to Jackson County and located on a farm in Blue township, south of Independence. This farm is now owned by Ed Witte. After leaving the farm. Dr. Sewell resided in Independence for two years and then built a residence in Englewood, on Wayne avenue, where he resided for five years prior to his death in 1904. The mother of Jack Sewell was Elizabeth (Baird) Sewell, also a native of Shelby County, Ky. She died when the subject of this sketch was but six weeks old. By a later marriage with Elizabeth Gale, Dr. Sewell was father of a son, Joseph Sewell, who died at Long Beach, Cal. at the age of 46 years.

Jack Sewell graduated from the Independence High School and dur¬ ing his active life he followed farming in Jackson County. He is now living retired in his comfortable home at 813 South Park street. Mr. Sewell was married on June 7, 1885 to Nora B. Smith, who has borne him two children, Frank and Sybyl Sewell. Nora B. Smith's father was Dr. Minor T. Smith who was born near Lexington, Ky. and came to Jackson County in the early days when land was still open for entry. He lived on a farm near Raytown and practiced medicine for many years, dying at the age of 88 years in December, 1914. He was a veteran of the Mexican War and was wounded in the knee at the capture of Vera Cruz. His wife, Catherine (Beckham) Smith, was reared in Jackson County and died at the age of 42 years. The children of the Smith family were: Mrs. J. G. Hoff, Independence; Hubbard T., deceased; Henry H., Los Angeles, Cal.; Nora B. Sewell, of this sketch; Fleetwood Smith, whose whereabouts are unknown; Brooking C., Phoenix, Ariz. By a later mar¬ riage with Laura Hunter, Dr. Smith had a son and daughter, Laura, wife

Dr. Frank Sewell, with offices in the Owens Building, was born on a farm near Independence. He was educated in the public schools and the Raytown High School and studied for two years in William Jewell College.

e graduated from the medical department of the University of Tennes¬ see in 1915 and began the practice of his profession in Kansas City, later removing to Humboldt, Kan. and thence to Malta Bend from which city he enlisted in the Medical Corps of the United States army during the World War. He was first stationed at Fort Oglethorpe, then sent to Camp eauregard. La., and from there he was sent to Camp Upton, Long Island lom w ich point he embarked for overseas in November, 1918. He served in France with Base Hospital No. 11, at Brest. He alL served at ordeaux and was also on detached service. Dr. Sewell returned home on July 1, 1919 and resumed his practice in August, 1919.

George W. St. Clair, farmer and stockman, Blue township, owner of 1/5 acres, in the valley of the Little Blue, is a native of Jackson County, e was bom April 25, 1871, on a farm southeast of Blue Springs. He is

Caroline St. Clair, both of whom were natives of Virginia. George W St Clair emigrat^ from Virginia in the early forties, and settled on land southeast of Blue Springs, in Sniabar township. He was the father of 14 he settled down to the peaceful pursuit of agriculture in his home county and accumulated a fine farai southeast of Blue Springs. He was mar¬ ried in 1850 to Alice Broaddus who now makes her home in Blue Springs. She was born in Lafayette County, a daughter of D. R. Broaddus, a Mis¬ souri pioneer.

The children born to Joseph V. and Alice St. Clair are as follow: George W., of this review ; Dr. R. L. St. Clair of Kansas City ; Lucy, Lura, Mattie, Callie and Ruth, deceased. The St. Clair farm southeast of Blue Springs consists of 260 acres besides a 12 acre tract at Blue Springs. Mr. St. Clair was successful as a farmer and stock raiser. During the last 29 years of his life he made his home in Blue Springs. He was a Baptist and a strong churchman, serving as clerk of the Blue Springs Baptist church for several years.

After completing the course of study in the Blue Springs public schools George W. St. Clair studied in the State Normal College at Chillicothe. Mo. He then engaged in farming. He purchased his present farm in the valley of the Little Blue in 1902 and has placed all of the existing improvements on the place which is improved with two dwelling houses.

Ml'. St. Clair was married in 1905 to Miss Ida Campbell who was born near Olathe, Kan., a daughter of James S. Campbell living northeast of Blue Springs. By a prior marriage to William Johnson, Mrs. St. Clair has two children: Ward H. Johnson and James S. Johnson. The latter is assisting in the cultivation of the St. Clair farm as a full partner. Ward H. Johnson is a farmer located one-half mile west of the St. Clair place. Mr. St. Clair is father of one child, Alta Alice, born Oct. 15, 1906.

Mr. St. Clair is a Democrat and is well and favorably known through¬ out Jackson County. He is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian church and is affiliated with the Odd Fellows Lodge of Blue Springs.

Nathaniel Curtis Scoville, now deceased, was for many years prom¬ inently identified with Jackson County in various ways. He was a native of New York, born in February, 1843. He was reared and educated in the east and studied law. He practiced his profession for a number of years in Kansas City and in 1875 removed to Lees Summit, Mo., where he devoted the remainder of his life to the fruit industry and was one of the successful orchardists in that section.

Nathaniel Curtis Scoville married Susan Elizabeth Perkins, a native of Jackson County, Mo. - and a daughter of Jesse G. and Mary (Cook) Perkins. A more extensive history of the Perkins family appears in this volume in connection with the biographical sketch of Z. T. Perkins. To

Nathaniel Curtis Scoville and wife was born one child, Mrs. Jessie Robinson, who ,s the mother of five children and now resides in Kansas City, Mo.

James A. DeWitt. - During 20 years of residence on his fine farm at belsa, in Blue township, James Andrew DeWitt has built up one of the beautiful and attractive homesteads in Jackson County. The vine cov¬ ered cottage which is the home of Mr. DeWitt stands on a rise of ground overlooking fte Little Blue river valley, and presents a restful and pretty few of which are still standing. During the Civil War he avoided getting into trouble as much as possible, and suffered but a short term of im¬ prisonment in the guard house at Independence. When Order No. 11 was issued, he too^k his family with him to Pike County, III., and remained there born to Daniel and Caroline S. (Lowe) DeWitt are as follows: Margaret CThe deceased; Mrs. Mary F. Paradice, Kansas City, Mo.; Mrs. Susan Z. White, near Blue Springs; John D., on the home place with his mother- James Andrew, subject of this review; Vilenna L.,,wife of William Hunter!

James A. DeWitt studied in the Kirksville Normal College after attending the district school of his neighborhood, and then taught one term of school. His first farm was a 40-acre tract, located in section 22, township 49, range 31. After locating on his present place, he sold this farm. The DeWitt farm is located in sections 20 and 21, township 49, range 31. The Selsa store is located on this farm. For a short time after his marriage, Mr. DeWitt lived in Kansas City. He next rented a farm and then owned property on West College street, in Independence, where he removed from his farm in 1907. After his return to the farm, he sold his residence in the city. In 1916, he purchased a residence on East Rubey street, but sold this in September, 1919.

Aug. 10, 1887, Mr. DeWitt was married to Laura A. Deardurff, a daughter of Gen. Daniel and Elizabeth (Cummins) Deardurff, who came to Jackson County from Ohio, after the Civil War. Colonel Deardurff was a colonel of an Ohio regiment during the Civil War, and was breveted a brigadier-general for his services in behalf of the Union. He died in 1895. Five children have been born to James A. and Laura A. DeWitt, three of whom are living: Cleora F., is deceased; Ruby E., is the wife of Dr. Sterling P. Simmons, of Marshall, Mo. ; J. Roger DeWitt, lives in North Platte, Neb., married Maiy Mildred Zick, a daughter of Bernard Zick, Jr. ; one child died in infancy ; Robert A., the youngest child, is aged five years. The mother of the foregoing children died Oct. 24, 1919, and her remains were laid to rest in the Blue Springs cemetery.

Robert Samuel Kimsey, proprietor of a fine farm of 74 acres in Fort Osage township, which he is cultivating together with a tract of 52 acres located near Lake City, in the same township, was born in a log cabin on the same site of his present home, June 20, 1869. Mr. Kimsey is a descendant of some of the first pioneers of Jackson County, his grand¬ father, Samuel Kimsey, having settled in this county during the early thirties on a place including R. S. Kimsey's present home.

The parents of Robert S. Kimsey were James W. and Missouri (Huds¬ peth) Kimsey, the former of whom is deceased and the latter is still living, one of the oldest of the pioneer women of Jackson County. Mrs. Kimsey was born Nov. 29, 1837 on a pioneer farm in Jackson County and is a sister of Thomas B. Hudspeth, a sketch of whom appears in this history.

James W. Kimsey was born in the northern part of Fort Osage town¬ ship in 1839 and died on Jan. 22, 1893. He was a son of Samuel Kimsey, a native of Alabama, who married Emily Connor, daughter of an early pioneer and located on a farm in Fort Osage township.

James W. Kimsey was reared in Jackson County. He enlisted under Gen. J. 0. Shelby and General Price at the outbreak of the Civil War and served for four years with the Confederate forces, surrendering at Shreve¬ port, La. After the war was over he returned home and settled down to farming. He resided upon the farm now owned by his son, Robert Samuel Kimsey. He was married Sept. 15, 1868 to Miss Missouri Hudspeth, who bore him two children: Robert Samuel, of this review; and Sallie, who died at the age of 11 years. Mr. Kimsey was a lifelong Democrat, who was widely and favorably known in his section of Jackson County and was an excellent citizen.

Robert S. Kimsey attended the old Academy School and has always been a farmer. His early education was mostly obtained in log school houses. With the exception of two years spent in Colorado and Cali¬ fornia in 1889 and 1890, he has always lived in Jackson County.

Mr. Kimsey was married Oct. 23, 1893 to Miss Elizabeth Carpenter, who was born July 24, 1874 in Cass County, Mo. She is a daughter of O. A. and Sarah Ellen (Chiles) Carpenter, the former of whom was bom in Independence, Aug. 15, 1844 and is now residing in Cass County. He is a son of James Crandall and Lamira Ann (Overton) Carpenter, the former of whom was born at Providence, R. I. His wife, Lamira Ann (Overton) Carpenter was bom near old Fort Osage, now Sibley, in 1825, and was a daughter of Aaron Overton, one of the first pioneers of Jackson County who entered land near the present site of Sibley, Mo., while U. S. soldiers were stationed there guarding the early settlers from attacks or raids by unfriendly Indians.

J. C. Cari3enter was a contractor and builder, one, who in the old days, knew his trade from tree trunk to the finished product of his skill. He was one of the original "forty-niners," hiring his tool chest hauled in one of a train of wagons starting at Weston's blacksmith shop in Inde¬ pendence, himself riding a mule, going over the Santa Fe trail, leaving his wife and small son, 0. A. Carpenter, with relatives in Independence. He remained two years in California working at his trade and returned by water, coming around Cape Horn into the Atlantic ocean, up the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, landing north of Independence at old Wayne City landing. He lived at Independence until 1873, when he bought a farm in

Cass County and moved there and engaged in farming. He now resides in Freeman, Mo. His children are as follow: Mrs. Robert S. Kimsey; J. W. Carpenter, Pueblo, Colo.; Mrs. Anna Laura Gillespie, Cass County, Mo.; Mrs. Emily Pearl Beaver, Colby, Kan. Since she was 13 years old to the time of her marriage, Mrs. Kimsey was reared by her grand¬ mother. Her mother, Sarah Ellen (Chiles) Carpenter was born April 21, 1854 and is a daughter of James Ramsey and Jane (Kimsey) Chiles, the former of whom was a son of Joseph Chiles, a Jackson County pioneer who came here from Kentucky when a young man. Joseph Chiles was married in Westport to Polly Ann Stephenson, later locating permanently in California, rearing ten children. After their marriage in 1853, J. R. Chiles and wife started across the plains enroute to California on April 2. They made a home in California and remained there, Mrs. Chiles dying in California. Some years after her death, J. R. Chiles retumed to Mis¬ souri and married Addie Johnson.

Aaron Overton, great grandfather of Mrs. Robert S. Kimsey, had the first flouring mill in Jackson County. This mill was operated by water power and located two miles north of Independence on and in con¬ nection with his mill. Mr. Overton operated a still. In the pioneer days he was one of the best known and influential men of the county. He was a kind slave owner and participated in the battle with the Mormons dur¬ ing the Mormon trouble.

The Kimsey residence in Fort Osage township is undergoing remodel¬ ing and is being transformed into a pretty modem bungalow which is attractive as well as comfortable.

Mr. Kimsey is a Democrat. He is affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of Sibley and the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Buckner and the Royal Arch and Chapter of Independence. Mr. and Mrs. Kimsey are well informed, progressive and hospitable folk who have many warm friends in Jackson County.

George L. Triplett. - In this section of the country there are but few of the Old Guard, as the last survivors of the Union army who fought in the Civil War, are called. One of the remarkable facts of history in connection with the settlement and development of western Missouri is that, soon after the close of the Civil War, veterans of the war from the eastern states, who upon amival home found that there seemed to be but few opportunities for them to succeed, came west and settled in the very country where their late enemies had been strongly entrenched. How¬ ever, there had never been any great personal animosity between the

Geoige L. Triplett, Union veteran, who for over a half century has made his home in Jackson County, and now living retired at his home on 831 West Waldo street in Independence, is a fine type of citizen who has done well his part in the upbuilding of eastern Jackson County. Mr. Triplett is a native of Ohio, born in Pickaway County, Feb. 14, 1845. He is a son of Lawrence and Sarah Jane (Van Meter) Triplett the former of whom was a native of Kentucky and the latter a native of Ohio.

Sarah Jane (Van Meter) Triplett was a daughter of Abraham Van Meter, a native of Virginia, so it will thus be seen that George L. Triplett is descended from Southern stock. Lawrence Triplett was a son of John H. Triplett, who also was bom in Virginia, emigrated to Kentucky and thence to Ohio. Tradition says that a Triplett served in the American Revolution and that the Tripletts are descended from English stock. Two sons of Sir Thomas Triplett, a former dean of Westminister Abbey, immi¬ grated to America from England and settled in the colony of Virginia. On the maternal side, Abraham Van Meter was a son of Joseph Van Meter who probably served in the American revolution.

To Lawrence and Sarah Jane Triplett were bom three children: Laura, deceased; Isabelle, wife of Nelson Reeves, Oak Grove, Mo.; and George L., subject of this review.

At the outbreak of the Civil War, George L. Triplett enlisted in Com¬ pany H, Thirtieth Ohio Volunteers and served two years with the Union armies. He saw service with the Army of the Potomac and the Western Army and fought in the battle and Siege of Vicksburg, South Mountain Antietam and the Second Battle of Bull Run. He received an honorable discharge from the army in 1863 and returned home to the parental farm.

Mr. Triplett was married in 1866 to Miss Margaret Elizabeth Lane who was born in Ohio, a daughter of Solomon and Ruanna (Alcon) Lane, of Ohio. She was born in 1844. The children born to this marriage are as follow: Van Meter, John F., Gustavus F., Florence J., Gertrude L., Charles R., De Loss and Sarah E. Van Meter is a retired farmer living at 111 North Delaware street. Independence. John F. died at the age of 33 years of typhoid fever. Gustavus F. was born in 1871 and is an exten sive farmer living north of Oak Grove on the Triplett home place Flor¬ ence IS the wife of W. A. Cannon of Grain Valley has one son, Lawrence, ertrude is the wife of Dr. W. R. Henderson, formerly of Oak Grove, now practicing- in Old Mexico, has one son, Franklin P. Henderson. Charles R. Triplett is a farmer living northwest of Oak Grove is married and has three children, George, Mary and Charles. De Loss Triplett lives at Oak Grove, married Dora Gordon. Miss Sarah E. Triplett is at home with her parents. The latg John F. Triplett was well and favorably known in east¬ ern Jackson County and for some years was successfully engaged in farm¬ ing and conducted a grain and live stock business at Levasy.

George F. Triplett came to Jackson County in 1868 and made his first location within one mile of the present Triplett homestead in Fort Osage township. His father-in-law and family had also come to this county from Ohio and Mr. Lane had purchased a farm which Mr. Triplett bought and proceeded to develop. Mr. Triplett purchased the Triplett home place in 1892. He and his son Gustavus F. Triplett own together over 440 acres of land, some of the best and most valuable in Jackson County. Mr. Triplett moved to Independence in 1910.

William Southern, Jr., editor and pub¬ lisher of The Independence "Examiner," was born in Tennessee, Nov. 4, 1864, and is a son of John Nelson Southern, well known attorney of Independence, a sketch of whom appears in this volume. William Southern,

Jr., came to Independence with his parents, in 1869, and was educated at Westminster College, Fulton, Mo. He was employed in various newspaper offices until he founded the "Examiner," in February, 1898. The Independence "Daily Examiner" now has a circulation of 2,750 copies daily, and is a large, well printed, ably edited seven column sheet. While the "Examiner" is Demo¬ cratic in political matters, the editor is inde¬ pendent in his views, and this paper is fearless in its editorial expression at all times.

Mr. Southern was married in February, 1892, to Miss Emma Proctor, a daughter of Dr. Alexander Proctor, of Independence. Mr. and Mrs. Southern have two daughters: Caroline, at home; and Mary, wife of George P. Wallace, of Independence.

Mr. Southern has served two terms as president of the Missouri State Press Association, and has filled the office of president of the Mis¬ souri State Historical Society one terna. He is a member of the board

He was president of the Masonic Building' and Investment Company, which erected the Masonic Building- in Independence. Mr. Southern has been affiliated with the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons since 1898,

Thomas C. Blackwell, a well known and successful stockman and farmer, and an extensive land owner in Prairie township, is one of Jackson County's progressive citizens. Mr. Blackwell was born at Richmond, Ky., Sept. 26, 1855, and is a son of John R. and Matilda (Chenault) Blackwell. John R. Blackwell was a Kentuckian, born at Richmond, Ky., in 1823. He was engaged in farming and stock raising in early life in 'his native State and m 1869,^ came to Jackson County, and bought land. Here he engaged in farming and stock raising, and met with unusual success in his undertaking. He died in 1904, and at the time of his death was the owner of 3,000 acres of land. His wife, Matilda (Chenault) Blackwell, was also a native of Kentucky. She died in 1846, at about 45 years of age. She was a devout Christian woman, and a consistent mem¬ ber of the Christian (ffiurch. John R. Blackwell was a son of Randolph and Frances (Jett) Blackwell, both also natives of Kentucky, who spent their lives in that State. They were the parents of 12 children, of whom John R. was the youngest.

Thomas C. Blackwell received his early education in the public schools of Jackson County, and later attended William Jewell College at Liberty Mo., and Bryant's School at Independence, Mo. Thus equipped with a good education, he began life as a farmer and stockman. At the death of his father, he inherited a part of the estate, which consisted of large

Jackson County, and since that time, he has acquired additional land, and now owns 1,800 acres of valuable land, upon which he has made extensive improvements. He is an extensive stock feeder feeding large quantities of cattle for beef, and is recognized as one of the successful feeders in this section of the State.

Mr. Blackwell was united in marriag-e May 23, 1888, with Miss Sally Morgan Blackwell, a native of Winchester, Ky. She is a daughter of rmstead and Sally (Murphy) Blackwell, both natives of Kentucky the foimer of whom is now deceased, and the mother resides with her daugh- ter, Mrs. Thomas C. Blackwell. Mrs. Blackwell is one of three children born to her parents, as follows: Felix, deceased; Mrs. Blackwell, and Lillie, deceased.

Thomas C. Blackwell was the eldest of three children born to his parents, the others being John R., who resides in Prairie Home township, and Anna, deceased.

To Mr. and Mrs. Thomas C. Blackwell have been bom three children: Randolph, deceased; Felix G., bora Jan. 9, 1892, resides at home with his parents ; and Thomas C., deceased.

Mr. Blackwell is a Democrat, and Mrs. Blackwell and Felix G. are members of the Presbyterian church. The Blackwell family have been prominently identified with the growth and development of Jackson Coun¬ ty for many years, and rank among its foremost citizens.

George .Jenkins, elder of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, First Quorum of Seventy, Independence, Mo., was bora at Byrneville, Harrison County, Ind., April 1, 1862. He was a son of Jo¬ nathan and Hester Ann (McCullough) Jenkins, both of whom are de¬ ceased.

Jonathan Jenkins was bora in Kentucky, Oct. 28, 1823, and died in Indiana, Aug. 5, 1897. His wife, Hester Ann, was born Dec. 7, 1826, and died Sept. 12 1909. Jonathan Jenkins was left an orphan in Kentucky by the death of his father, in 1827. After his father's death, his mother took her family and removed to Harrison County, where he was reared and married, afterwards devoting his life to farming pursuits. The children of the Jenkins family besides George Jenkins, of this review, are: Isaac, bora Dec. 29, 1849, died in March, 1903 ; Julia Ann, born Jan. 25, 1852, is living on the Jenkins home place in Indiana; Thomas, born Jan. 11, 1854, lives in California, postoffice, "Sur"; David, bora Oct. 25, 1855, Independ¬ ence, Mo. ; Jonathan, Jr., born Aug. 27, 1857, Byrneville, Harrison County, Ind.; Spencer, bora Jan. 31, 1860, Byrneville, Ind.; Lavina, bom Aug. 22, 1864, died April 2, 1887 ; Eddie, born May 4, 1867, died March 21, 1873 ; Charlotte, bora May 4, 1867, died Sept. 14, 1883. The two youngest chil¬ dren were twins.

George Jenkins obtained sufficient education in the schools of his na¬ tive county to enable him to obtain a school certificate. He followed farming until he was 26 years of age. He became interested in the creed of the Latter Day Saints, united with the church, and began preaching in his home locality. After a few years spent in local ministerial work he was sent as a missionary, and for several years traveled in Indiana, Illi- nois, Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri and Arkansas, spreading the gospel accoroing to the faith and teachings of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He came to Independence March 9, 1911,

Rev. Jenkins was married March 25, 1884, to Martha Ellen Evinger, a native of Floyd County, Ind. She was born July 8, 1862, and is a daugh¬ ter of Solomon and Rebecca (Summers) Evinger, who were natives of

James A. Slayton, member of an old and highly respected pioneer family of Jackson County, has lived true to family tradition, and occupies a high place in the citizenship of this county. Mr. Stayton is the owner of 252 acres of valuable farm lands in Brooking and Blue townships, south o ndependence. He has resided on his land since Aug. 31, 1881, and has created in that time the finest farm plant in his neighborhood. The ayton farms are improved with three handsome, modem residences, and a other buildings on the land are kept up in excellent shape. He and his sons are raising pure-bred Duroc Jersey hogs and cattle for the markets. An orchard covering two and a half acres supplies a great deal of fruit James A. Stayton was born June 22, 1857, on the old Stayton home pace, east of Independence, which was settled upon by his grandfather, John Stayton, in 1830. John Stayton was a native of Tennessee, moved from his native State to Kentucky, and then came to Jackson County bringing a retinue of slaves, who in 1830 began the work of clearing the land which he had purchased from the government. John Stayton be¬ came one of the largest land owners of his day, and owned a tract of land extending along the road to the limits of Independence. Upon his death he willed to his five sons all of the land which he owned east of Independence^ These five sons were; Thomas, Arthur, Christopher, Moses and Landes. There were five daughters also in the family; Mrs. Martha which his father had erected a fine brick house in 1837, across from the Holke home, as it now stands. This home has since been torn down. When Order No. 11 was issued the Stayton family moved to Miller Coun¬ ty, Mo., and remained there until the close of the Civil War, in 1865. The wife of Moses Stayton was Lucy Anne Hite, who was born Sept. 18, 1838, and died Oct. 11, 1876. She was born in Kentucky, and was a daughter of James Coleman Hite, who came to Jackson County from Kentucky in 1853, and after remaining here for a time, started on the return trip to Kentucky. Meeting some friends who were Missouri bound on the way, he was induced to locate in Miller County. Moses and Lucy Anne were married in 1855. Their children were: Mrs. Rebecca Susan Adcock, wife of Dr. Adcock, born Nov. 10, 1855, died April 1, 1910; James A., of this review; John William, died at the age of 13 years; Martha Lee, wife of John B. Strode, of Sniabar township, born Sept. 7, 1862; Lucy Frances, wife of Ben Fisher, San Benito, Texas, born in Miller County Sept. 8, 1864.

James A. Stayton was educated in the district school, and Independ¬ ence High School and Woodland College. He was married in January, 1882, to Miss Kittie McBride, who was born Sept. 25, 1856, in Independ¬ ence, a daughter of William E. and Minerva (Dresser) McBride, both of whom were natives of Kentucky. The McBrides came from Kentucky to Jackson County in 1844. William E. was a carpenter and followed his trade in Independence for some years, and also established a nursery and fruit farm, which he managed until his death.

The children born to James A. and Kittie (McBride) Stayton are as follow: James Arthur, Charles Howard, Lela Bryan. James Arthur, Jr., was born Nov. 9, 1882, married Mary Cox, in 1909, and has one child, Kathryn. Charles Howard was born Nov. 6, 1891, was married June 26, 1916, to Nellie Fay Smith, and has one son, Charles Howard, Jr. Lela Bryan Stayton was born Oct. 29, 1896, and is at home with her parents. These children were all educated in the district school and Independence High School. The sons of Mr. Stayton are living in homes built by their father on the Stayton land.

Mr. Stayton is a Democrat. He is a member of the Christian Church, and he and his family hold high rank among the best citizenship of Jackson County. He is a well posted man of affairs who has made a success of his life work, and enjoys the respect and esteem of a large circle of friends and acquaintances.

Thomas P. Fraher, collector for the Kansas City Gas Company, Inde¬ pendence, Mo., was born Jan. 22, 1851, and is a son of James and Ellen (Johnston) Fraher, the former of whom was born in County Limerick, Ireland, and the latter born in County Donegal, Ireland.

Both of Mr. Fraher's parents immigrated to America when young, and were married in Massachusetts. They migrated from New England to Clay County, Mo., in 1850, traveling up the Missouri River by steam¬ boat to Liberty Landing. From 1850 to 1900, James Fraher was engaged in the mercantile business at Liberty, in partnership with his brother, Philip, both he and his brother dying in Liberty. Mrs. Fraher died in 1904, and two years later her husband followed her to the grave. The children of the Fraher family are: Thomas P., of this review; James W. Fraher, formerly an attorney in Kansas City, now living on a farm in Platte County, Mo.; John, is in business in Kansas City, but makes his home in Platte County ; Edward, living on the home farm in Platte Coun¬ ty, Robert Emmett, died at the age of 16 years; Sylvester, died when 13 years old; Mary, Johann, and Agnes, are deceased.

After studying at William Jewell College, Thomas P. Fraher engaged in business with his father until 1884. He then came to Jackson County, and for a time was employed as a shoe salesman in Kansas City. He then operated a shoe store on the north side of the square in Independence. Since 1904, he has been in the employ of the Kansas City Gas Company, as collector, with offices at 910 Grand avenue, Kansas City, Mo.

Mr. Fraher was married in Independence to Miss Agnes Brady, a daughter of John Brady, and sister of Charles W. Brady, postmaster of Independence. Eight children have been born to this marriage: John Brady Fraher, who died in infancy; Mrs. Loretta Higbee, 1000 North Liberty street; Thomas P. J. Fraher; Mrs. Hester Greenlee, Independ¬ ence, formerly a teacher in the city schools ; Charles, with the Standard Oil Company, Sugar Creek; Herbert, also in the employ of the Standard Oil Company; Alida, an office employe of the Standard Oil Company; Agnes, a student in the Independence High School.

^ Thomas P. J. Fraher served in the World War. He enlisted in the United States Army in August, 1915, and was sent to the Mexican Border When General Pershings' Expeditionary Army was sent overseas to ranee for participation in the great war, he accompanied the vanguard, and was located for a time with the Army of Occupation in Germany after the armistice. He served with Battery B, Sixth Field Artillery, First Division, and took part in much arduous service. He is now stationed at Camp Taylor, Ky. His military record is an unusual one, and deserv¬ ing of special mention. He was cited for distinguished service by Major General Summeral, the following being excript from the official citation: "Horseshoer Philip Fraher, Battery B, Sixth Field Artillery. On the night of Oct. 11, 1918, 'HS. Fraher volunteered to act as cannoneer for the firing battery, and while riding a caisson to the battery position the lead team and the driver were wounded by shell fire. HS. Fraher carried the wound¬ ed man to a place of safety, and then drove the team to the battery posi¬ tion, where he acted as cannoneer, an act which is not required in strict interpretation of duty, but which was necessary owing to the large num¬ ber of casualties in the firing battery.' "

Philip Fraher was also awarded the Victory Medal, the following be¬ ing an extract from that order: "Headquarters Sixth Field Artillery, Germany, June 7, 1919. Special Orders No. 111. Extract 1. Under pro¬ visions of G. 0. 75 G. H. Q., c. s., the following named men, members of Battery B, Sixth Field Artillery, are awarded the Victory Medal and four Battle Clasps, having participated in the Montdidier-Noyon, Aisene-Marne, St. Mihiel and Meuse-Argonne engagements with the American Expedi¬ tionary Forces: Horseshoer Fraher, 125637, Philip. By order of Colonel Margetts William P. Bledsoe, Captain 6th F. A., Personnel Adjutant."

For the past 20 years the Fraher family residence has been located at 1100 North Osage street. He is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America.

Fred Koehler, jeweler and optician, labor organizer and leader, is one of the most intelligent and versatile progressive citizens of Independence. His jewelry establishment is located at 221 West Lexington street, and is a model of neatness and arrangement, and has a good patronage. Mr. Koehler was born at Winchester, Clark County, Mo., Nov. 29, 1870.

His father, George M. Koehler, was born near the Bavaria-Swiss border line, and came to America with his parents when he was five years of age. His parents settled at Nauvoo, Ill., and both died of cholera dur¬ ing the epidemic. He enlisted with the Union forces at the outbreak of the Civil War, and served as a private soldier in Company B, Seventeen Iowa infantry, and fought in 17 battles under Gen. W. T. Sherman. He was wounded while marching with Sherman to the sea. The great battles in which he participated were : Missionary Ridge, Lookout Mountain, Vicks¬ burg, Fort Donelson, Battle of the Wilderness, Island No. 10, Chickamauga, and others. He enlisted in the army when but 16 years of age, having been born in 1845. He married Julia Glassner, of Nauvoo, Ill., who bore him children as follow; Mrs. Margaret Robertson, Kansas City; Fred, subject of this sketch; George M., Jr., a baker at Rosedale, Kan.; Mrs. Louise Knoch, Lincoln, Kan. ; Mrs. Anna Hunter, Mount Washington ; J. A., manager of the Herald office at Lamoni, Iowa; Charles, in the em¬ ploy of the Standard Oil Company; Mrs. Amelia Good, Wakefield, Kan.; Rev. Arthur Koehler, living in Maine; Daniel and Grace, died in infancy.

When 11 years of age, Fred Koehler entered the employ of the C. A. Murdock Manufacturing Company, and was in the employ of this concern for 18 years, rising to the position of foreman and head miller of this establishment before he resigned. During his employment in Kansas City he became interested in labor organization, and organized the Kan¬ sas City Bakers Union, serving as the first president of this union, and as delegate to the Industrial Council for two years. He learned the jewelry and watchmakers trade in Kansas City, established himself in business, and for a time he had charge of three shops in the city. He came to In¬ dependence in 1907, and established his present thriving business.

Mr. Koehler was married in 1894 to Miss Ada Cleveland, of Kansas City, a Canadian by birth. They have seven children: Grace, who is now Mrs. Earl Moore; George, died in infancy; Hazel, Julia, Margaret, Dorothy and Frederick, Jr.

Mrs. Koehler is an ardent worker in public affairs, especially in the work of the parent-teacher association, her greatest efforts being in be¬ half of home economics, she having served as chairman of that depart¬ ment of service in the council of the parent-teacher association of Inde¬ pendence, since the organization of that body in 1912, and is still in that office. One of the many things that she has done in that office was to manage for three consecutive years a movable school of home economics, put on through the Missouri University extension course, wherein up¬ wards of 400 of the best homekeepers of Independence availed themselves of the opportunity of a five-day course in scientific home keeping.

The Koehler family residence is located at 105 North Crysler street. Mr. Koehler is a member of the Woodmen of the World, is past dictator of the Loyal Order of Moose, and is foreman of the American Yeomen. Mr. Koehler is the original inventor of the Mystic Wonder Clock, which runs without visible signs of power. For many years he has been assodated with labor interests, and has made hundreds of addresses in the interests of labor. He has always been a progressive and aggressive thinker whose ideas are original because of the fact that he is self-educated, and as always been a student. Mr. Koehler has built up a splendid library of over 3,000 volumes, and is a lover of good books. His mind is stored with information, and he is a ready conversationalist, one of those rare personages who can do his work and talk entertainingly upon a variety of subjects. His retentive memory and the ability to readily comprehend and dissect the gist of what he reads have made him a well informed man.

Thomas L. Milton, residing on Walnut street, Independence, member of one of the old Jackson County families, a railroad man and farmer, was born in what is now Kansas City, Oct. 6, 1866. He is a son of the late Benjamin Milton, an account of whom is given in connection with the sketch of R. F. Milton in this volume.

When Thomas L. Milton was six years old, his father, who had fallen heir to the old Milton home place in Virginia, sold his holdings in Jackson County and returned to the old home in the Virginia mountain country. His boyhood days were spent there, the longing to return to Missouri always present in his mind, however. When he became old enough he determined to follow his older brothers to Missouri. Accordingly, when 16 years old, his mother gave him money enough to pay for his railroad ticket to Kansas City where his brother, J. L. Milton was working as car man in the yards. When he arrived in the city he had but 30 cents in his pocket and did not know where to find his brother. He tried to stay in the railroad station all night but was "shooed" away by a policeman and forced to spend 25 cents for a bed which was not to his. liking. The next moraing he spent his remaining five cents for some cookies on which he breakfasted. He then found his brother with the assistance of a kindly station employe. His brother gave him some money and directed him how to get to his uncle's home near Buckner where he wanted to find work, the noise of the city not then appealing to him. As he was wait¬ ing for the train for Buckner he was accosted kindly by Wm. Johnson of the Buckner neighborhood, who volunteered to look after him and see that he found his uncle. He soon arrived at Buckner, stopped at the hotel over night and the next day went to his uncle's home. Not long after¬ ward he began work for the Missouri Pacific railroad as car man and held this place until 1888. He then went to Albuquerque, N. M. with his brother George Milton, and was employed on the Santa Fe railroad for two years. In 1890, he went to San Bernardino, Calif., and was employed on the Cali¬ fornia Southern railroad until 1896. The great railroad strike of 1894 having taken place, he returned to Jackson County and bought 80 acres of land upon which he resided until 1898. He again went to railroading and went to Raton, N. M. and worked for the Santa Fe one year. In

1899 he went to Colorado Springs and for a period of 17 years he was a conductor on the Colorado Midland. The government ownership period having begun in 1916, the Colorado Midland, not being a paying concern, was abandoned. Since his return to Jackson County, Mr. Milton has been residing on a ten acre tract on Walnut street and is temporarily switching in the yards at Kansas City. He is, by nature and inclination a farmer and expects to spend his remaining years engaged in farming pursuits. Mr. Milton is owner of 160 acres of land in Barton County, Mo., 80 acres in New Mexico, city property and ten acres of land at Lakeworth, Fla.

Mr. Milton was married Jan. 6, 1900 to Marguerite Doolin, daughter of Daniel and Kate (Reddington) Doolin, the former of whom was a native of New York and the latter a native of Ireland. Mr. Doolin has been a resident of Kansas for years and is a large land owner. He is aged 87 years and resides at Williamburg, Kan. He has reared a family of eight children: John Doolin, residing on the home place in Kansas; William, L. Doolin, died May 25, 1909; Winifred, at home with her parents; Mrs. Maria Conroy, Minnesota; Mrs. Marg'uerite Milton, of this review; Daniel, Libbie Kate and Alice, at home.

The children born to Thomas L. and Marguerite Milton are as follow : Katharine, aged 18 years; Thomas, 14 years old; Ernest, aged 10 years; William, 7 years of age, and Marguerite, 5 years old.

Mr. Milton is a Democrat. Mrs. Milton is a member of the Catholic Church. He is affiliated with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the Knights of Pythias, the Order of Railway Conductors and the Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen.

George W. Mayhan. - Born on a ranch in the vast plains of Texas, George W. Mayhan lived the earlier years of his life amid real frontier scenes and environment. For years he was on the very outposts of civili¬ zation, and enjoyed the wild, free life of the unsettled plains, as a cattle¬ man and plainsman. He was born in Sherman County, Texas, June 20, 1854, and is a son of Augustus and Mary (Maxwell) Mayhan, who were pioneers in Texas.

Augustus Mayhan was a son of Moses Mayhan, of Scotch-Irish descent, descended from the old American pioneer stock of North Carolina, and who was one of the first settlers in the unpeopled wastes of northern Texas, going to that wild country as early as 1820. He was a cattle raiser, who owned large herds of cattle, which ranged at will over the vast, un¬ fenced prairies of bygone days. Augustus Mayhan served four years in the Civil War, as a volunteer in a north Texas regiment, contracted

George W. Mayhan came to Jackson County in 1878, and settled on his present place. The lure of the great plains of his native country again drew him southwestward, however, and from 1881 to 1888 he was engaged in the cattle business in Nev/ Mexico. Herding and driving cattle was his early occupation, and he first went to New Mexico from Texas, before coming to Jackson County. On his second trip to the Southwest he jour¬ neyed by way of Lees Summit, Olathe, Kan., and Burlingame, Kan., over the Santa Fe trail, to Santa Fe, N. M., with four horses, a wagon and buggy. He was accompanied by his brother Augustus. For seven years they handled cattle and drove large herds to northern points, as far as the vicinity of Julesburg, Colo., one great herd bringing $11.00 a head in Nebraska. During one winter they held 30,000 cattle on the border, and on Christmas day of that winter, waded the Rio Grande, cut down a bee tree, and rifled the tree of a large store of honey. Indians were numer¬ ous during his earlier years of his cattle herding experience, but he never suffered inconveniences from them. N. R. Mayhan tells a funny story of an experience he had when driving cattle from north Texas. Meeting a company of mounted negro soldiers on the Pecos River, while on the way to Fort Clark, one of the soldiers said to him: "Indians will scalp you, befo' you get there, boy." That night the Indians stampeded the horses of the command, and they were forced to walk. Indians were continu¬ ously doing things of this character, and would frequently help them¬ selves to beef cattle, but a few would not be missed from the great herds.

Mr. Mayhan met a Missouri girl in New Mexico, whom he married in January, 1878. She was Miss Roanne Daniel, bom in Jackson County in 1860, a daughter of Leonard Daniel, who died in Kansas in 1861, whither he had gone to espouse the cause of the freeholders. Eleven living chil¬ dren have blessed this union, forming one of the largest individual families ever reared in Jackson County. They are: Fred, a rancher in Colorado; Ida, living in Montana; Zebulon, a ranchman in Custer County, Mont.; Ernest, a rancher in Montana ; Leonard, aged 33 years, enlisted as a volun¬ teer in the National Army, and served throughout the World War as a lieutenant of the American Expeditionary Forces, having been three times wounded while fighting on the Western Front in France; Morgan, lives near Denver, Colo.; Mrs. Leonore Claussen, lives at Mount Washington, Mo.; Mrs. Lura Green, lives at Lone Tree, Mo., mother of two children;

Mr. Mayhan is the owner of 215 acres, 160 acres of which is comprised in his home place. A feature of the Mayhan farm is the fine orchard of 15 acres, which is from 20 to 25 years old, and bears excellent crops. Mr. Mayhan picks and handles the crop on his own account. He is an inde¬ pendent voter, a member of the Christian church, and is affiliated with the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Blue Springs.

Andrew Jackson Grubb, farmer and stockman, proprietor of a fine farm of bOl.5 acres, located just south of Oak Grove, in Sniabar township, has resided on his land since 1867 when his father settled in Jackson County. Besides his home farm, Mr. Grubb is owner of a good farm of 2o0 acies situated one and a half miles north of Oak Grove, another farm of 71 acres two and a half miles north of town, and 50 foot frontage of town property in Oak Grove. The home place is well improved with a large residence of seven rooms and a barn, 60 x 36 feet. This farm is one of the most productive in Jackson County; all of the Grubb farms are feitile tracts of land. Mr. Grubb rents out the greater part of his land but carefully looks after all of the property.

Andrew Jackson Grubb was bom in Fayette County, Ohio, Sept. 15, 1855, the son of John and Mary (Ralston) Grubb, both of whom were natives of the Buckeye state. The Grubb family came to Jackson County in about 1867. John Grubb purchased a small farm upon which he made his home during the remainder of his life. He died in 1900, aged 80 years. Mrs. Mary Grubb died in 1890. They were parents of nine chil¬ dren as follow; Mrs. Jane McCartney, living in Iowa; Mrs. Ann McCart¬ ney, deceased; Henry and Margaret, living on an adjoining farm; Samuel, deceased; Robert lives in Iowa; George is deceased; and John Andrew Jackson, subject of this review.

Robert, Samuel and Andrew J. Grubb worked together after they came to Jackson County and accumulated a farm which they cultivated jointly until Robert Grubb's removal to Iowa. Samuel and Andrew J., then purchased Robert's interests in the land and the two brothers then tilled their land in partnership until Samuel's death. Samuel Grubb willed his share of their farm which at that time consisted of about 300 acres to his brother Andrew J. Samuel Grubb died in 1903. Since that time A. J. Grubb has continued to add to his possessions until he is now one of the large land owners of the county.

Mrs. Grubb have one son, Victor, born Aug. 15, 1904, a student in the Oak Grove High School. Mrs. Mary (Porter) Grubb was born in Jackson County, in 1869. She is a daughter of Hugh and Mary (Gibson) Porter. Her father, Hugh Porter was born in Rutherford County, Tenn., Jan. 27, 1826, and died in Jackson County, March 6, 1915. He came from Tennes¬ see to Jackson County about 1838 and was later married to Mary Gibson, a daughter of Silas Gibson, one of the early pioneers of Jackson County, who became a large land owner and was prominent in the early day affairs of Jackson County. She was born Jan. 20, 1835 and died May 27, 1912. To Hugh and Mary Porter were bom children as follow : Mrs. J. B. Brizendine, Oklahoma City, Okla. ; Mrs. Mark Gore, Kansas City, Mo. ; Mrs. Belle Goodloe, residing near Woods Chapel ; Mrs. Dora Grubb, of this review ; Mrs. T. J. Wiegant, Blue Springs; Silas, Sniabar township; Lee, Kansas City, Mo.; Samuel, Sniabar township; Clay, living on a farm south of Blue Springs.

Hugh Porter was a soldier in the Confederate army during* the Civil War. He first served in the state militia under Captain Smith and then enlisted in the Confederate army. He served in the battle fought for control of Independence and during this engagement had three horses shot from under him. He received his discharge from the service some time later on account of ill health.

Arthur N. Adams, attorney-at-law, with offices at 1327 Bank of Com¬ merce building, Kansas City, Mo., is, in many respects, a "chip off the old block." His father was the late Hon. J. M. Adams, who in his day was the most popular citizen of eastern Jackson County.

Mr. Adams was born Jan. 15, 1872, near Pink Hill, Mo., and when two years old, was taken to the Adams home place in Fort Osage town¬ ship by his parents. He was there reared to young manhood, attended the local schools and entered the State University at Columbia, from which institution he was graduated in 1897, with the degree of Bachelor of Laws. He was admitted to the bar that year and began the practice of his profession in 1897. During nearly 23 years of practice in the counties of Missouri, Mr. Adams has achieved a reputation as a keen, re¬ sourceful, conscientious and painstaking lawyer who gives himself heart and soul to the interests of his clients. He has won many notable cases during his career and has been counsel in many important litigations.

to the old Hudspeth farm and won the case. Malinda P. Wood deeded the land to certain parties and some of the other heirs tried to break the deed. Mr. Adams carried the case to the State upreme Court and was awarded a favorable decision in the interests of the grantees, the court sustaining the provisions of the deed. He has had many cases in the Supreme Court.

In the case of the Belfast Investment Company vs. Curry et ai., as 0 w ether the statute of limitations began to run against the right of dower regardless of the possession of the property, was a very important one which Mr. Adams handled, and his contention was sustained by the upreme Court. For the past 15 years he has represented the Missouri btate Dental Board as counsel and has carried many cases to the Supreme Court in the interest of the board. He has handled successfully, several important partition cases to the entire satisfaction of the interested parties. He represented the Kansas City Title and Trust Company in the trials of many of their cases in litigation.

the city and State and is recognized as one of the leaders of the Kansas City bar. He is active in the affairs of the Modem Woodmen of America and has served as national representative of this order, attending three National Conventions and serving as chairman of the Missouri delegation

Pkce has been placed there by Wm. F. Owen, the proprietor, since he puruZnded A residence sui rounded by shade trees is the family home; good bams and two large and died at his home in Sniabar township, Jackson County, in March, 1907. He was a son of Edward Owen, a native of Vermont, of Welsh extraction. Edward Owen married a Miss Sowers of Scotch-Irish descent and he was a pioneer in Illinois. In 1836 the parents of Alma Owen moved to Caldwell County, Mo. and remained there for two years, then returned to McLean County, Ill. where they resided for three years and soon went to Marshall County, that state. When Alma Owen became of age he went to McLean County and learned engineering and milling and followed this trade for several years. Nov. 28, 1858, he was married to Sabethna Barnhouse, who was born in Darke County, Ohio, Oct. 13, 1840 and died March 16, 1919. She was a native of Pennsylvania. Mrs. Owen had two brothers, Jacob and Nelson Barnhouse, who fought with the Union forces in the Civil War. Alma Owen had four brothers who served with Illinois regiments in the same conflict, viz: Lee, Nethi, Beroni and Frazier.

Alma Owen came to Jackson County in November, 1866. He first purchased 120 acres of land and improved the tract in later years with one of the then finest homes in the county. The farm which he purchased was the old Ragland property which had been allowed to revert to almost a wilderness during the Civil War period. At the time of purchase there were only 20 acres of the land suitable for cultivation. He accumulated several hundred acres of land but met with reverses in his later days through being too willing to give his name as security for debts of some of his friends. Forced to liquidate the debts of those whom he had be¬ friended he lost all of his large estate, excepting the home place of 160 acres. Six children were born to Alma and Sabethna Owen as follows: Charles H., Alberta, Canada; Edward J., a farmer in Fort Osage township; William H., of this review; Mrs. Ida Baxter, living at Woods Chapel; Ira, living on the old home place; Mrs. Celestia Patterson, Idaho; Frank, died in Idaho.

William H. Owen received his education in the Owen district school and has always been a hard working, industrious tiller of the soil. He purchased his present place which was formerly the old Roberts farm in 1892 and has made a success of his work and is rated as one of the most substantial and enterprising agriculturists and stockmen of the county.

Mr. Owen was married in 1887 to Miss Lizzie Flynn, daughter of Patrick and Margaret Flynn, deceased, of Jackson County. Mr. and Mrs. Owen have one son, Duward L., living on the home place. He was bom in August, 1888 and is married to Emma Hagan who has borne him four

Mr. Owen is independent in his political beliefs. He served for six years as director of the Owen school district. He is a member of the Brotherhood of American Yeoman and is popular and well liked in his

Thomas Jefferson Hedrick, member of the Missouri State Board of Agriculture, well known and successful livestock and grain dealer, Buck¬ ner, Mo., is a native of Tennessee. He was bom Jan. 4, 1861, and is a son of James and Elizabeth (Ray) Hedrick, who came to Jackson County in 1896, and settled on a farm, where they spent the remainder of their days. James Hedrick died in 1903, at the age of 69 years. Elizabeth, his wife, died in 1898. James Hedrick served in the Union Army during the Civil War, with a Tennessee regiment. His children are as follows : Wil¬ liam and James, deceased; John, Atherton, Mo.; Thomas Jefferson, of this

T. J. Hedrick, of this review, came to Jackson County in the spring of 1878, and for the next four years worked as a farm hand at monthly wages. He then rented a tract of land, and later purchased a farm. While engaged in farming he became interested in the buying and selling of live¬ stock, and thus found his niche in the commercial and agricultural life of Jackson County. He has made a pronounced success as a livestock dealer. Mr. Hedrick removed to Buckner in 1898, and has made this city the cen¬ tral point for the conduct of his large business. His business was estab¬ lished in 1889. The Hedrick Grain Elevator at Buckner has a capacity of 10,000 bushels of grain, and the carload shipments from the elevators have been as high as 100 cars in past years.

Mr. Hedrick was married in 1883 to Miss Maude Mershon, a daughter of Amos Mershon. Of five children born to this marriage four are living: Rex V., cashier of the Farmers Bank of Buckner; Guy C., engaged in the livestock business in Kansas City, Mo. ; Mrs. Rue Chatburn, Buckner, Mo. ; Amy, wife of W. M. Larey, of the Fanners Bank of Buckner.

^ Mr. Hedrick is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, and is affiliated with the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, the Eastern Star, and fraternal insurance orders. He is prominent in the affairs of the Re¬ publican party, and is one of the leaders of his party in Missouri. He has filled various local offices, and has always taken a keen and inffuential interest in civic matters. At the present time, Mr. Hedrick is a member of the Republican State Central Committee. In 1909 he was appointed by Governor Herbert Hadley a member of the State Board of Agriculture, and has been reappointed by succeeding governors, receiving his last ap¬ pointment by Governor Frederick D. Gardner, in the fall of 1918.

Herbert A. Major, of the firm of Major and Humphrey, men's furnish¬ ing store and barber shop, south side of the square, Independence, Mo., is a native of Jackson County, and is a member of one of the pioneer families of Jackson County. He was born on a farm near Pink Hill, in Sniabar township, Aug. 15, 1873.

His parents were Samuel F. and Rachel (Kabrick) Major, the former of whom was born in 1837 in St. Charles County, and died at Blue Springs, Mo., in 1893. During earlier life, Samuel F. Major followed farming pur¬ suits. Rachel (Kabrick) Major was born in Virginia and accompanied her parents to Jackson County when she was a child. The Kabricks settled near Oak Grove. Elsewhere in this volume will be found a full account of the Kabrick family. When Order No. 11 was issued during the Civil War the Kabrick family left Jackson County and went to St. Charles . County, with ox teams, crossing the Missouri River at Lexington. The children of the Major family are: Edgar, Kansas City, Mo.; Clarence, Denver, Colo.; Ollie, wife of W. W. Ford, Kansas City, Mo. ; Herbert A., of this sketch ; Pearl, wife of Wallace Pryor, Kansas City, Mo. ; Arthur, Dawson City, Alaska; Frank, Kansas City. It is a remarkable fact that the five Major brothers are barbers, and all have been successful.

Herbert A. Major attended the Blue Springs public schools, learned the trade of barber in his ybuth, and has followed his trade for the past 30 years. He was first employed in Independence by Henry Bostian, in 1893. His first venture on his own account was in 1898. Later, in 1901, E. R. Humphrey, an experienced drygoods man, was taken into partnerships, and a men's furnishing store was established in the same business room with the barber shop. Major and Humphrey carry a fine stock of goods, and are well established at 115 West Lexington street.

Mr. Major was married in October, 1896, to May Gillespie, a daughter of Robert A. and Amanda M. Gillespie, of Independence, Mo. Mr. and Mrs. Major have a son, Herbert, Jr., aged three years.

Mr. Major is a member of McDonald Lodge, No. 324, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, the Knights of Pythias, and has been affiliated with the

A. W. feearcy, a member of an old Missouri pioneer family, was born on a farm in Clay County, Mo., Aug. 15, 1863. His parents were A. W., Sr., and Mary A. (Moore) Searcy, both of whom were natives of Madison Coun¬ ty, Ky.

In the year 1838, A. W. Searcy, Sr., accompanied his father and the family to Missouri. His father, R. H. Searcy, settled between Kansas City and Liberty, entering government land, near Winwood Lake. R. H. Searcy not only entered land but each of his sons took up a homestead and devel¬ oped it. A. W. Searcy, Sr., returned to Kentucky, was there married, and upon his coming back to Clay County, he too, settled upon government land. He developed a fine farm, which was his home for many years, and be¬ came prominent in the civic affairs of Clay County, serving as sheriff of the county before the Civil War. His duties as a county official also re¬ quired that he collect the taxes from the land owners. This necessitated his traveling all over the county and as frequently happened in those days, when few people had any ready money, he would take livestock in payment foi the taxes. He would take the cattle, hogs, horses or whatever the farmer paid him, to the market, sell the stock, and if any balance was. left over after taking out the county's share, he would return the money to the farmer. On the other hand if the stock fell short in value of the amount due in taxes, he would call upon the farmer to make up the difference. He

A. W. Searcy, Sr., moved to Jackson County after his term as sheriff expired, and settled upon a farm which is now a part of Kansas City. Fif¬ teenth street now runs through an 80 which he owned. He sold this 80 and purchased 40 acres east of Independence in 1881. He was accidentally killed on this place by a horse, and his remains were interred in Salem church cemetery. His widow survived him many years, and died in her ninetythird year. The Searcy children are : R. H. Searcy, Kansas City, Mo. ; F. M. Searcy, Independence, Mo.; Josephine Searcy, Raytown, Mo.; Mrs. Mary Anderson, Olathe, Kan.; Cassie and Charline Searcy, Independence, Mo.; A. W. Searcy, Jr., subject of this sketch; Mrs. Sallie Gibson, deceased.

A. W. Searcy, Jr., of this review, followed farming pursuits until 1900. He then came to Independence and was engaged in the coal business for

Mr. Searcy was married in 1900 to Miss Etta E. Turner, of Independ¬ ence. The Searcy family residence is located at 419 North Liberty street.

Mr. Searcy is a member of the Woodmen of the World. He is one of the heaviest stockholders of the Jackson County Fair Association and is treasurer of this association, having been a member since its inception in 1906.

Mr. Searcy served for two years as a member of the City Council, and filled the post of deputy county assessor for one year under Assessor Crit Whaley.

During the pioneer days, when A. W. Searcy, Sr., resided in Clay County, wild game was plentiful and the table was usually kept supplied with fresh meat through the prowess of some member of the family as a hunter. On one occasion, the elder Searcy shouldered his rifle and started to follow a deer route which the deer used in passing to and from the river. While in hiding near the path waiting for a deer to pass he noticed some ravens who were making considerable noise. He decided to investigate and found two bucks lying dead, their antlers caught in the top of a fallen tree. It was upon their carcasses that the ravens had been feeding. The antlers were of unusual size and Mr. Searcy took them home, where for many years they were highly prized trophies.

Christian Ott was elected mayor of Independence in 1913, and still holds the office, having been elected to four consecutive terms, a record which had never been equalled by any of his predecessors. He has been the choice of the people because he has always given very efficient service, and there are several reasons why - the principle ones being sound business judgment, freedom of the city government from petty politics, and an in¬ dividual pride on his part in making Independence the best governed city anywhere.

Mayor Ott was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Christian Ott, Sr., who were pioneers in Independence and Jackson County, settling here in 1848. It was in honor of the elder Ott that the Ott school is so named. To this couple were born seven children, four sons and three daughters. Of the sons, one is a physician of Philadelphia, one is a merchant, another is a bank president, and the other is the subject of this article. All are suc¬ cessful in their respective lines. It has been said that their father's last

After leaving the parental roof, Christian Ott, Jr., was employed as clerk in a drug store, working there for five years. This store w'as owned and operated by Dr. J. T. Brown, a substantial citizen of Independence. The most attractive feature of the business according to a recent inter¬ view with the mayor, was the proprietor's daughter. Miss Maud Brown, who is the present Mrs. Ott.

Not intending to become a druggist, Mr. Ott entered the employ of the Anderson-Chiles Banking Company, and was later connected with the Mc¬ Coy Banking Company. He was city treasurer of Independence, and also served as a member of the City Council. His principal occupation, however, was always the buying and selling of real estate, and it has been in this business that he has made most of his money. It has been said of him by business men of Independence that in the matter of a real estate transac¬ tion he never makes a mistake, once his mind is made up on a proposition.

Since taking up the duties of mayor he has received attractive offers from big corporations to serve them in an advisory capacity and also in administrative positions. So far he has declined all offers and continues to be mayor of Independence.