Jackson County, Missouri - Biographical sketches, 1920 (part 3 of 15)

William Moberly Hill was a slave owner at the time of the outbreak of the Civil War. He took his slaves and went to Texas, and did not return until 1865. Pie passed through Lone Jack on the day following the raid of the Red Legs from Kansas, and found a lone storekeeper mourning the loss of his entire stock of goods. Upon his return to Jackson County he was accompanied by his father and his brother, Curtis Hill. He developed a fine farm and prospered. A large orchard which he planted in 1896 is now in good bearing condition. He was married to Ann Elizabeth Gossett, who was born in Kentucky in 1851, and accompanied her parents to Jackson County in 1866, they settling on the farm now owned by Carson Brothers. She died Nov. 1, 1880. The children born to William Moberly and Ann Elizabeth Hill are: Curtis, Kansas City, Mo.; Jo L., subject of this sketch ; Jacob Gossett Hill, Kansas City, Mo. ; Mrs. Fannie B. Abston, Englewood; Adam, a dairyman on part of the home place; Dr. William Hickman, formerly a member of the LTnited States Medical Corps at Camp Funston, and now stationed at Camp Upton, N. Y. ; Sanford died in infancy.

Jo L. Hill was educated in the public schools and Woodland College, and studied for one year in the State University at Columbia. The years intervening until he settled down to farming were spent in traveling. One trip which he took to Alaska through British Columbia took five months. He went down the Yukon River to Dawson, and thence to the mouth of the great river. The year following was spent in mining in Colorado, after which he came home to the farm.

Mr. Hill was married in 1908 to Miss Bessie G. Duncan, of Blue town¬ ship, a daughter of J. T. and Margaret (Brown) Duncan, of Independence, Mo. The children of the Duncan family are as follow: Mrs. Blanche Oli¬ ver, of Raytown; Sanford S., Blue Spring, Mo.; E. C. Duncan, Grain Vallew, Mo.; Ernest J., Independence, Mo.; Olan, Independence, Mo.; W. F., James I., Independence, Mo., and Mrs. Jo L. Hill.

Asa K. Browning, real estate and loans, rooms Nos. 1 and 2, Battery Block, Independence, was born in Pendleton County, Ky., July 21, 1870 and is a son of William T. and Eliza J. Miller Browning, both of whom are deceased.

William T. Browning was born in Pendleton County, Ky., in 1830, and died in Jackson County, near Raytown in 1914. During the Civil War he served as a private soldier in Company I, 5th Kentucky Infantry, Confed¬ erate Army, and took part in 26 hard fought battles and over 70 skiiTnishes during his term of seivice. He was married in Kentucky to Eliza J. Miller who was born in 1836 and died in 1908. He came to Jackson County in March, 1874, and operated a farm in Prairie township, near Lees Summit, for 20 years. He then sold his farm and purchased another place near Raytown where he died. The children born to William T. and Eliza J. Browning are as follow : C. A. Browning, Greenwood, Mo. ; H. 0. Brown¬ ing, Kingsville, Mo.; Mrs. Talitha F. Thompson, Blue Springs, Mo.; E. H. Browning, Rushville, Mo. ; Joseph Browning, Raytown ; Asa K., of this sketch; Thornton, Lees Summit, Mo.; Charles, Blue Springs, Mo.; Cora Browning, Raytown; Early Browning died in September, 1897, at the age of 31 years.

For several years after locating here, W. T. Browning was engaged in the wholesale tobacco business. He purchased tobacco in quantities at Lees Summit and shipped it in car lots to Louisville and Cincinnati. His brother, 0. N. Browning, of Lees Summit was at one time the largest loose leaf tobacco dealer in the United States.

At the time of Mrs. Brownings death in 1908, Mr. and Mrs. Browming had 29 grand children and five great grand children. This estimable couple had lived together for 56 years and had lived to see all of their children grow to maturity. Nine of these children are living at the present time. William T. Browning took an unusually active part in church and religious work and lived according to his creed. He was kind and obliging and strictly honest in all of his business dealings and enjoyed the respect and esteem of all who knew him. His home was a very hospitable one and his door was always open, a warm welcome being always given to both friend and stranger.

Until he attained the age of 30 years, Asa K. Browning followed the vocation of farmer and stockman. For two years, he was employed in the Kansas City stock yards. In 1902 he opened his real estate office in Independence in partnership with M. L. Hall, now deceased. For six years following Mr. Hall's death the firm was known as Bro'wning and Galloway. For the past four years, Mr. Browning has been in business on his own account with offices in rooms 1 and 2, of the Battery Block. He specializes in farm lands and handles loans on real estate and faiTns.

Mr. Browning was married April 28, 1897 to Miss Ella St. Clair, a daughter of E. P. and Mary A. (Nowlin) St. Clair, the former of whom died in 1895 and his remains are buried in the St. Clair family cemetery. Mrs. St. Clair resides in Independence and is 77 years of age. E. P. and Mary A. St. Clair were parents of the following children: H. L. St. Clair, Oak

Mr. and Mrs. Browning have a very pleasant home at 916 South Main street. They are members of the Independence Christian church. They have good and just right to be proud of the record of members of the family on both sides who served in the World War. Six nephews saw service in the war, as follow: Chris D. Browning was a member of the 39th Signal Corps and later with the American Relief Association. James L. Browning was with the 356th Infantry, 89th Division and participated in the St. Mihiel drive. Willie H. Browning and Charles R. Browning served in the United States navy. Irving K. Browning was a lieutenant in the Aviation Corps. Haston St. Clair served with the 110th Engineer Corps, 35th Division.

Geo. A. Gould. - The real estate, loan and insurance business operated under the name of Geo. A. Gould and Company in the Battery Block, Inde¬ pendence, Mo. was first established in April, 1908, and coiiducted under the firm name of Gould, Burdick and Company. In July, 1909, Mr. Gould puri''hased the interest of Mr. Burdick and the name of the concern was changed 10 Geo. A. Gould and Company two years later. Oct. 1, 1919, J. M. Gould, a son of Geo. A. Gould, became a member of the firm which is doing an ex¬ tensive business.

Geo. A. Gould was bom in Becker County, Minn., Aug. 25, 1873. He was reared in Ottertail County, Minn, and educated in the public schools. In 1887 he came to Jackson County with his parents and here finished his schooling. He then pursued a course in general business. For 11 years he was in the employ of the Parsons Hawkeye Feeder Company, working in the factory and as traveling salesman on the road in Missouri and Kansas.

Mr. Gould was married Dec. 29, 1897 to Miss Winifred McIntyre of Beloit, Mitchell County, Kan. She is a daughter of D. M. and Lodema S. McIntyre, both of whom are residing in Independence. Mr. McIntyre is a member of the firm of Geo. A. Gould and Company. Mr. and Mrs. Gould have seven children : J. M. Gould, educated in the public schools and Cen¬ tral Business College of Kansas City, and now a member of the firm ; Faye

G. , stenographer for R. B. Jones and Company, Kansas City, resides at home; Max W., a student in Central Business College, Kansas City; Fern and Eleanor Gould who were pioneer settlers in Ottertail County, Minn., developed a farm in that county and died at Silver Lake, Ottertail County. Clayton G. Gould developed a farm there, sold it in 1887 and came to Jackson County, settling in Independence on West Sea avenue, where he lived for some years. He then built a home on Fuller street, sold it later and built a home at 308 S. Grand, sold this place and bought another at 1027 West Waldo where he is now residing. He is over 70 years of age, active and well preserved. Mrs. Gould was born in Fremont County, Iowa, and is past 68 years of age. Their children were: Mrs. M. T. William, 1313 West Van Horn Road; Herbert A., 579 Brookside avenue, Mt. Washington; Geo. A. Gould, of this review ; Minnie D. died at the age of 21 years. Geo. A. Gould and family reside at 721 West Waldo, where they have a fine home purchased of the Rufus Wilson estate.

Mr. Gould has served as city councilman from the fourth ward, hav¬ ing been elected on an independent ticket, during a "wet and dry fight," campaigning only eight days on a "dry" platform.

Thomas H. Swope. - "Esperanza," the home of "Anxiety Herefords," consisting of 300 acres, on the Lexington road, in Blue township, a few, miles northeast of Independence, owned and operated by Thomas H. Swope, is one of the finest country estates in this section of Missouri - a locality noted for its fine homes and farms. Mr. Swope purchased the farm in 1912, from his mother, Mrs. Margaret C. Swope, and at once placed under the way the erection of the splendid improvements which have made the farm a show place in Jackson County. Mr. Swope began the breeding of pure-bred Hereford cattle in 1917, and his success in the venture is ample evidence that he has made a thorough study of the pro¬ duction of fine cattle. He has 30 head of registered Hereford cattle. "Bright Anxiety," the leader of his herd, was purchased of Gudgell and Simpson, of Independence. "Bright Anxiety" was sired by "Bright Stan¬ way," whose owner has refused to set a price on him. Mr. Swope has an¬ other herd bull called "Beau Pallidan," 18 months old, which he raised on his farm.

All of the existing improvements on "Esperanza" farm have been placed there by the proprietor. The fine, large, modern residence is built' of native stone, and the grounds are crossed by concrete walks and drive¬ ways. One large, stucco barn, two frame bams and other well-built struc¬ tures are placed at the rear of the residence. The arrangement of the farm buildings are such as to bring commendation from the obseiwer.

Esperanza Stock Farm Owned By Thomas H. Swope

pumped by Mr. Swope's own water plant. The spring is located on the northern slope of the farm property, and the pressure obtained will ex¬ ceed 125 pounds. The entire 300 acres of the Swope farm is in blue grass and alfalfa.

Thomas H. Swope was born in Woodford County, Ky., Aug. 23, 1882, and was reared in the city of Independence. His father, the late Logan O. Swope, was born in Lincoln County, Ky., in 1847, and died in Inde¬ pendence, Feb. 23, 1900. He came from Kentucky to Jackson County about 1854, was here married to Margaret Chrisman, when he had at¬ tained his majority. After som.e years of residence in this county he re¬ turned to Kentucky, where Thomas H. Swope was born. In October, 1882, he returned to Jackson County, and made a permanent home in Inde¬ pendence. During his residence in this county he was extensively en¬ gaged in farming and stock raising, and had large land interests in the county. He was a breeder of Shorthorn and Jersey cattle, and did much toward bettering the herds throughout this section of Missouri, by the introduction of pure-bred cattle. He was a brother of the late Thomas E. Swope, millionaire of Kansas City, whose philanthropic gift of Swope Park to the city will make his name remembered for all time by the citi¬ zens of his home city.

To Logan O. and Margaret (Chrisman) Swope were born the follow¬ ing children: William Chrisman Swope, deceased; Frances, wife of B. C. Hyde, Kansas City, Mo.; Thomas H. Swope, of this review; Lucy Lee, wife of W. B. Bryan, Los Angeles, Calif. ; Margaret, wife of T. T. Miller, Los Angeles, Calif.; Stella, and Sarah Swope, deceased.

The mother of the foregoing children now makes her home in New York. She was born in Independence, and is a daughter of the late Wil¬ liam Chrisman, of Independence.

William Chrisman was born in Kentucky, Nov. 23, 1822. He was de¬ scended from an old American family of Virginia ancestry. His paternal grandfather was Abram Chrisman, who was born and reared in Virginia, and became a pioneer in Kentucky, where he followed farming and became wealthy. Joseph Chrisman, father of William Chrisman, was born in Rockingham County, Va., in October, 1800. He was taken to Kentucky by his parents and was there reared to young manhood. He married Eleanor Soper, native of Maryland, and member of an old American family. In later years, Joseph Chrisman moved from Kentucky to a farm near Liberty, Mo., and there spent his remaining years. Joseph and Eleanor Chrisman were the parents of children as follov;: William; John, died in

Kansas City; Joseph, died in De Kalk County, Mo.; Amanda, wife of Dr. Ben Mitchell, Clay County, Mo. The education of William Chrisman was obtained in private schools, the Georgetown, Ky., College, and in Center College, of Danville, Ky. He graduated from Center College, in 1846, with the degrees of Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts. He then studied law and was admitted to practice in 1847.

May 10, 1848, Mr. Chrisman was married to Lucie A. Lee, of Dan¬ ville, Ky. She was born in 1828, and was descended from the Lee family of Virginia. Soon after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Chrisman started for Missouri, and located in Independence. Mr. Chrisman immediately began the practice of his profession, and had a series of partners, among them being Abram Comings, Samuel H. Woodson, Russell Hicks, and Samuel L. Sawyer, all of whom served on the bench. In 1857 he engaged in banking and organized the Independence Savings Association, which was later merged into the banking house of Stone, McCoy & Company, later becoming Stone, Sawyer & Company, and finally becoming the Chrisman-Sawyer Banking Company, which is one of the leading banking conceiTis of the county at the present time. He was also an organizer and a director of the First National Bank, now extinct, and was a stockholder of the National Bank of Commerce and the Midland National Bank of Kansas City. He was the leader in the organization of the Kansas City Ladies College of Independence. In 1888, Mr. Chrisman suffered a stroke of paralysis, and after that time made his home with his son, George Lee Chrisman, on his large farm south of the city. Mrs. Chrisman died in February, 1889. The children of the family were; George Lee Chris¬ man, deceased; James, died while a student in Fulton College; Margaret, widow of Logan 0. Swope. William Chrisman died in 1898. He was a ruling elder of the First Presbyterian Church of Independence, and was active in religious affairs.

Mr. Chrisman was a Democrat, but never sought political preferment. He was a member of the Constitutional Convention held in 1875, which gave to the State of Missouri its present constitution. He was liberal in his donations to public enterprises, kind and liberal to the poor, no call for charity of a worthy nature ever going unheeded by him. His daugh¬ ter, Mrs. Margaret Swope, gave to the city of Independence the land upon which the William Chrisman High School is built, and the school was named in his honor.

Mrs. Julia Moseley, nee Yellman, lives in Independence. Five children have been born to Thomas H. and Maud Swope, as follow: Maude Louise, Julia, Thomas H., Jr., Margaret, and Lucy Lee.

Mr. Swope has other extensive interests besides his farm holdings, but his greatest interest is manifested in his fine stock farm. His con¬ ception and knowledge of the breeding of fine stock is intelligent and it is evident that he understands the business in which he is engaged. Men of affairs and means who are endeavoring to raise the standard of stock in the country, such as Mr. Swope, are conferring a distinct benefit upon the community and country at large.

Major John L. Miles, of the Miles-Bostian Motor and Tire Company, Independence, Mo., was born in Clay County, Tenn., Feb. 26, 1878. He is a son of John J. and Mary B. (Browning) Miles, both of whom were reared in Tennessee. John J. Miles was a son of Geo. Miles a native of Virginia, who was a pioneer in Tennessee. John J. Miles died in 1859, and his widow resides at 134 East Elm street. Independence. She came to Independence with her family in 1892. The children of the Miles family are as follow : George W., Independence ; Robert, Clay County, Tenn. ; Mrs. Mattie Leon¬ ard, Victoria, La. ; John L., of this sketch.

After leaving school, John L. Miles was employed in the grocery busi¬ ness and other mercantile lines and also served as city mail carrier for 12 years in Independence.

' In July, 1897, he enlisted in Company F, 3rd Missouri Regiment of the National Guard, and was with his regiment in the Spanish-American War, being stationed at Camp Alger, Va. He filled various offices in the com¬ pany and worked his way upward from private to a first lieutenancy. He was then transferred to Battery C, First Battalion of Missouri Field Artil¬ lery and was commissioned captain of this battery, which he commanded on the Mexican border in 1916. He was later made major of field artillery which was later designated by the war department as the 129th Field Artil¬ lery. Major Miles had command of the first battalion of the 129th Field Artillery during the regiment's service on the front in France, during the World War. He was overseas for a period of 11 months and was stationed in the Vosges Mountains, and served at St. Mihiel, the Argonne Forest and on the Verdun Sector and Conflans Offensive. He returned to the United States April 20, 1919 and was mustered out of the service June 22, 1919.

vanced artillery unit of the 35th Division, having advanced to Charpentry, France. They were at that place under constant shell fire for five days and lost a total of 84 men and 89 horses. Major Miles has nothing but words of praise for the men under his command and states that they were always willing, ready and eager to advance toward the enemy.

June 22, 1919, Major Miles returned to his home city and Oct. 1, 1919, he formed a partnership with Capt. Kenneth V. Bostian, who served with him in France and opened up their present business. The new firm is mak¬ ing good and are doing a thriving business.

Major John L. Miles is Post Commander of Tirey J. Ford Post of the American Legion, Independence. This Post was organized in July, 1919, with 15 charter members and the membership has now grown to over 250. The Post meets in the Elks Club Rooms on Tuesday night of each week.

William Russell Allen. - Allen's Phonograph Parlor, at the corner of Spring and Maple streets. Independence, Mo., is the only exclusive phono¬ graph house in the city and was founded by William Russell Allen May 21, 1919. Mr. Allen carries a line of Colonial phonographs, Columbia Grafanolas and Columbia records. This concern has had an excellent business since its beginning and has many satisfied patrons.

William R. Allen was born July 31, 1898, in Brookfield, Mo. He is a son of Fountain Riddell and Iva Dell (Cloyd) Allen, the former of whom is a native of Brookfield and the latter of Salisbury, Mo. Charles Edward Allen, grandfather of W. R. Allen, was a native of Kentucky and a pioneer of Charitan County, Mo. The Allens reside at 310 N. Delaware street. F. R. Allen is engaged in the real estate business with offices in the Battery Block.

When Mr. Allen was pursuing his third year's study in the Independ¬ ence High School, he harkened to the call of his country when war was declared against Germany and enlisted in the United States Navy April 14, 1917. After a period of training at the Great Lakes Naval Training Sta¬ tion he was sent to Norfolk, Va., and assigned to the U. S. Transport An¬ tigone. He served on this ship until his honorable discharge from the ser¬ vice in March, 1919. During his period of service, extending over nearly two years he made ten trips across the Atlantic.

Mr. Allen is treasurer of Tirey J. Ford Post, No. 21, of the American Legion and is a charter member of this organization. Although one of the youngest business men of the city he is a hustler and is fast building up a profitable business.

William Richard Harcourt, proprietor of the Harcourt Clothing Com¬ pany, 109 West Lexington street, on the south side of the Court House Square, Independence, Mo., was born in County Down, Ireland, Oct. 4, 1888, and is a son of Joseph and Margaret (Little) Harcourt, who lived all of their lives in County Down, Ireland, the former dying in 1891, and the latter in 1917.

Mr. Harcourt was educated in Warrenpoint, County Down, Ireland, in an academical institution of that city and began his career as a clerk in the stores of his native country prior to immigrating to America in 1906. He landed at Montreal, Canada, in that year and eventually found his way to Omaha, Neb., where he was connected with the Nebraska Clothing Com¬ pany and the King-Sw'anson Company until 1914. In that year he went to North Platte, Nebraska, and was engaged in the clothing business in that city until 1919.

In 1917, Mr. Harcourt enlisted in the Aviation Corps of the National Army and was sent to Fort Omaha and stationed there with the First Fly¬ ing Cadet Company until his honorable discharge from the service in November, 1918.

After his discharge from the army he returned to North Platte and continued in business there until March, 1919, when he sold his store to the Edwards Reynolds Company and came to Independence and established his present store. The Harcourt Clothing Company is one of the best stocked stores of its kind in Independence. The stock of men's clothing, hats and wearables for men and boys is first class and complete in every particular, and Mr. Harcourt has enjoyed an excellent business from the start, the concern being recognized as one of the solid and thriving insti¬ tutions of the city.

Captain Kenneth V. Bostian, member of the Miles-Bostian Motor and Tire Company, Independence, Mo., was born in Independence and is a son of William and Margaret (Hinters) Bostian, the former of whom is pro¬ prietor of the Bostian Confectionery, and served for a number of years as postmaster of Independence.

Kenneth V. Bostian graduated from Independence High School in 1912 and enlisted in the Missouri National Guards in 1911, receiving an honor¬ able discharge from the State service in 1914. He re-enlisted July 3, 1915, and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the National Guard in Novem¬ ber, 1915. He was promoted to a first lieutenancy in July, 1917, and com- missioned a captain in October, 1918, the latter commission being awarded while he was in the Federal service. He was called by the Federal gov¬ ernment for service on the Mexican border in June, 1916 and served on the border until Dec. 22, 1916. In September, 1917, he went to Camp Doniphan and left the camp for overseas service in France in May, 1918, with the 129th Field Artillery, 35th Division. He was in the reserve at St. Mihiel and served in the battle of the Argonne Forest. Prior to this he had been stationed in the Vosges Mountain sector. October 10, 1918, he was de¬ tailed on instruction duty at the American Field Artillery School at Valdahon, France, and was on duty at the school until May 24, 1919, at which time he received orders to return to the United States. Captain Bostian arrived at New York June 19, 1919, and received his honorable discharge from the service July 22, 1919.

Oct. 1, 1919 Captain Bostian formed a partnership with Major John L. Miles and established the Miles-Bostian Motor and Tire Company. This firm sells the Nash automobile and four different makes of excellent tires and are making a specialty of rebuilding worn tires.

Captain Bostian was married Aug. 4, 1917 to Miss Mary Salisbury of Independence, a daughter of Mark and Mary (McDearmon) Salisbury of Kansas City, Mo. The Bostian family residence is at 602 North Delaware street.

Capt. Bostian is a member of Tirey J. Ford Post, American Legion, Independence, and is affiliated with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Loyal Order of Moose.

Captain Spencer Salisbury, veteran of the World War, residing in Inde¬ pendence, Mo., has the distinction of being the only officer to raise or recruit his own company for service in the war when the United States declared war against Germany. He was born in Kansas City, Mo., Oct. 17, 1887, and is a son of Mark and Mary (McDearmori) Salisbury, of Kansas City.

After attending the public schools of Kansas City, Spencer Salisbury served for six years as constable of Blue township. In 1904 he enlisted in Company F, Third Regiment of Missouri National Guard and in 1914, he changed service from the infantry to field artillery. In 1916 he was sent with his command to the Mexican border in the Federal service and upon his return from the board he had his commission as first lieutenant, after having filled every position in his company below the captaincy ex¬ cepting that of cook or bugler. War having been declared against Ger¬ many in April, 1917, Captain Salisbury set about to recruit a company of field artillery and was elected captain of this company which was desig¬ nated as Battery E, 129th Field Artillery. His company was mustered into the service in August, 1917 and was sent to Camp Doniphan for thorough training. In April, 1918, they were sent overseas with the 35th Division. Captain Salisbuiy and his men saw much active and arduous service in the Meuse region, the St. Mihiel sector, the Argonne Forest and Verdun. The brigade was taken out of the 35th Division in October, 1918 and made a part of the 81st Division and was on the firing line when the armistice went into effect. Capt. Salisbury remained in France until April, 1919, on duty in the Inspector General's department, and returned to the United States Sept. 26, 1919, being mustered out of the service at Camp Dodge, Iowa. Captain Salisbury raised the personnel of his battery in 17 days, recruiting his company from men in Independence, Kansas City, and Jackson County.

Captain Salisbury was married Feb. 20, 1914, to Miss Laura Workm.an, of Independence, Mo., a daughter of J. A. and Mary Workman of this city. One daughter has been born to this marriage, Mary Pearl Salisbury.

Sergeant R. Powell Cook, of the fiiTn of Cook and Sermon, groceries and meats. Independence, Mo., was born in Independence, Jan. 9, 1894, and is a son of Charles H. and Cora (Howerton) Cook, both of whom were natives of Virginia, and migrated from their native State to Missouri in 1889. Mr. and Mrs. Cook now reside at 211 West Farmer street of this city. Their children are: Mrs. H. N. Beatty, Independence, Mo.; Charles H., Jr., Blue Springs, Mo.; Cora May Cook, Independence; and Sergeant R. Powell Cook of this review.

Sergeant Cook enlisted in Headquarters Company of field artillery April 29, 1917, was transferred to Battery E, 129th Field Artillery when the company was organized. He entered the National service Aug. 5, 1917 and on Sept. 26th. was sent to Fort Sill, Okla., for intensive training. From Fort Sill, his command was transferred to Camp Mills, Long Island and on May 10, 1918, aiTived in Liverpool, England. After a six days stay and rest at Liverpool they were sent to France with the 35th Division. Sept. 4, 1918 Corporal Cook was appointed sergeant. His command was in the reserve force at St. Mihiel and was actively engaged in the Argonne Forest and in the Verdun Conflans Defensive. He was at the front when the armistice went into effect. Sergeant Cook served a total of 21 months

October 20, 1919, the firm of Cook and Sermon was organized and they purchased the grocery and meat business of Curran, Schulenberg and Hausam, located on the north side of the square.

Sergeant Cook is a member of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, the Blue Lodge and Chapter and is affiliated with the Loyal Order of Moose. He resides at 211 West Farmer street.

Charles Stewart, deceased, was a prominent farmer and stockman of Blue township, and a member of one of the oldest Jackson County pioneer families. He was a freighter and plainsman, veteran of the Civil War, and noted for his industry, honesty and upright citizenship. He left be¬ hind him a record of which his descendants can always be proud, and the community in which he resided was better for his having been long a resi¬ dent therein. Mr. Stewart was born on the farm where his family now resides, March 17, 1841, and died May 6, 1898. His remains are interred in the Salem church cemetery.

Charles Stewart was a son of Charles and Mary (Peters) Stewart, both of whom were natives of Tennessee. They were reared and married in their native State, and soon after their marriage they set out for the northland, to find a new home in the then unsettled country. The long, overland trip was made on horseback. They first located in Illinois, and then they came westward to Jackson County in the early thirties, locating near Atherton, in Blue township. Here they reared a family, built up a farm and spent the remaining years of their lives. The father's remains are buried in Jones cemetery, and the mother lies sleeping in the Jones cemetery.

The early education of Charles Stewart, Jr., was obtained in the primitive schools. When he was a youth the business of freighting goods over the Santa Fe trail and to western points by wagons was of consid¬ erable importance. The life of a freighter or ox and mule driver appealed to the young men of his neighborhood as affording adventure and the means with which to earn money. He became a freighter and teamster, and made several trips to the Southwest and the' then unknown West, with freighting outfits, and he also journeyed to California and Oregon during and after the Civil War. However, he served three months in the Federal Army during the war. After several years spent in freighting and in the western country he returned home and settled down to farming and stock raising, and established a splendid home for his family. The Stew- art farm embraces 185 acres, 80 acres of which is rich, Missouri River bot¬ tom land.. One hundred and five acres comprise the home place. The Stewart farm is very fertile, and is well improved with a large nine-room residence, erected in 1909, located on an elevation on the Atherton - Courtney highway. The land is adapted to the raising of alfalfa and the Stewart boys are making a success of alfalfa raising and the production of high grade Duroc Jersey hogs.

Charles Stewart was married in 1885 to Miss Agatha J. Mann, who was born March 8, 1861, in Indiana, a daughter of Benjamin F. and Mar¬ tha (Hawkins) Mann, who came to Jackson County from Indiana in 1874, and settled on a farm near Courtney, in Blue township. Mr. Mann de¬ veloped a fine farm, and he and his wife spent the remainder of their lives in Jackson County. Seventy acres of the Mann land is still owned by the heirs. The children born to Charles and Agatha J. Stewart are as follow: Nellie Stewart, graduate of Independence High School, studied at the Sargent School, Boston, Mass., and is now a teacher in Northeast High School; Benjamin M., assisting in the operation of the home farm; Mar¬ tha, graduated from Independence High School, and is the wife of Wil¬ liam B. Smith, Kansas City, Mo. ; John C. Stewart, on the home place.

Mr. Stewart was a Republican. Benjamin M. Stewart is a Republican, and John C. Stewart is a Democrat. Mrs. Stewart is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, which Mr. Stewart attended. John C. Stew¬ art is a Thirty-second degree Scottish Rite Mason, and is a member of Ararat Temple of the Mystic Shrine, Kansas City.

Claude L. Bostwick, proprietor of an automobile livery and garage at 120 East Maple street, Independence, Mo. is a native son of Jackson County, and is descended, on his maternal side from one of the oldest and best known of the pioneer families in Jackson County. He was bom on a farm near Grain Valley, in Sniabar township on Dec. 15, 1886 and is a son of Admiral Nelson and Lucy A. (Johnson) Bostwick, the latter of whom was bom in Jackson County and is a daughter of David Johnson, a pioneer of this county. A sketch of Admiral N. Bostwick and a history of the John¬ son family appears elsewhere in this volume.

Claude L. Bostwick attended the Round Grove district school and fol¬ lowed farming until he came to Independence and started in the livery business in 1903. He has since been engaged in this business. He pur¬ chased the C. H. Ragland Auto and Garage business on March 1, 1919.

The Bostwick Garage is carried on in a large room 60 x 100 feet on East Maple street. Mr. Bostwick does a regular auto livery business and furnishes automobiles for funeral corteges. He has an automobile hearse which cost $4,500.00 and cares for the business of the undertakers of the city.

He was married on July 16, 1919, to Miss Mary E. Wilson of Blue township. Her father is deceased and her mother remarried, being Mrs. James McCown and lives on a farm in Blue township.

Mr. Bostwick is a member of the Loyal Order of Moose, and is recog¬ nized as one of the hustling and substantial business men of Independence.

Captain Roger Thomas Sermon, member of the grocery firm of Cook and Sermon, Independence, Mo., former officer in the National Army who served in the World War, was born in Independence, Nov. 2, 1890. He is a son of George A. and Adelia (Todd) Sermon who resides at 904 Van Horn street in this city.

George A. Sermon is a native of Kansas City, and was bom in 1861. Mrs. Adelia B. Sermon was born in Independence. They are parents of children as follow : Mrs. Mabel Bradley, Independence ; Mrs. Anna Schuleberg. Independence; Harry, deceased; Roger T., subject of this sketch. Independence; Roy, in the garage business at Independence; William, a student in the State University at Columbia.

Roger Thomas Sermon graduated from Independence High School in 1908. After leaving high school he served as a clerk in the Independence post office. He enlisted in the Missouri National Guard in 1907 and was connected with the state military organization until his command was taken into the regular army service. He enlisted in the regular army on June 19, 1916 and served until Dec. 22, 1916 on the Mexican border as first lieutenant of his company. Aug. 5, 1917, he again hearkened to the ^all of this country, which was arrayed against Germany in the World War and he enlisted in the Federal army. At Camp Doniphan he was commissioned a captain in Battery C. He was afterwards adjutant in the second bat¬ talion and was captain of Battery A.

He crossed the Atlantic in command of Battery A and was regimental adjutant while his command was in France. He saw active service with the American forces in the Vosges Mountains, was in the reserve at St. Mihiel, and served in the Argonne Forest, Somme Deine sector, with the 129th Field Artilleiy, of the famous 35th Division. When the armistice went into effect Nov. 11, 1918, he was at the front. He sailed from Brest, France, April 19, 1919, landed in the United States April 30, 1919, and re- ceived his honorable discharge from the service at Camp Funston May 21, 1919. Captain Sermon was in the service from Aug. 5, 1917, to May 21, 1919, and previously had sei*ved on the Mexican border from June 5, 1916, to December 22, 1916, and came out of the army a seasoned, hardened and trained veteran who has seen continuous service of a military character from July 31, 1907 to May 21, 1919, 12 years in all.

Captain Sermon was married Jan. 16, 1910 to Miss Stella Campbell, a daughter of John Thomas and Bertha Campbell of Lees Summit, the former of whom is deceased and the latter resides at Lees Summit. Captain and Mrs. Serman have a son, Roger T., Jr., born Oct. 8, 1918.

The residence of Captain and Mrs. Sermon is at 818 West Van Horn street. Captain Sermon is a member of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons and the American Legion.

Frederick Madison Smith, president of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Independence, Mo., was bom at Plano, Ill., Jan. 21, 1874. He is a son of Joseph and Bertha (Madison) Smith. He was educated in the State University of Iowa, studying in this uni¬ versity during the year, 1894 and 1895 ; received the Degree of Bachelor of Science from Graceland College, Lamoni, Iowa, in 1898; studied in the extension department of the University of Missouri in 1908 and 1909; re¬ ceived the Master's Degree from the University of Kansas in 1911, and the degree of Doctor of Philosophy from Clark University in 1916.

Dr. Smith was married Aug. 3, 1897, to Miss Ruth L. Cobb, a daugh¬ ter of Elijah and Alice E. Cobb, of Lamoni, Iowa. Their children are: Alice Myrmida and Lois Audentia.

President Smith was First Councilor of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints from 1902 to 1915, and in the latter year he was elevated to the presidency of the church. Prior to this he was professor of mathematics at Graceland College from 1899 and 1900. He was editor of the Lamoni "Chronicle" from 1900 to 1902. From 1900 to 1904 he was assistant and associate editor of the "Saints Herald." He was editor of the "Journal of History" from 1908 to 1912. He has acted as president of the board of directors of Independence Sanitarium, trustee of Graceland College, a director of the United Order of Enoch, and secre¬ tary and director of the Lamoni school board.

President Smith holds membership in the American Geographical Society, the American Institute of Archaeology, the Missouri State His¬ torical Society, the American Economic Association, the American Insti¬ tute of Criminal Law and Criminology, the American Peace Society, the

American Sociological Society, the Academy of Political Science of New York, the Missouri Valley Historical Society, the Society of Colonial Wars, and the Illinois Society of Sons of the American Revolution. He is also associated with the American Academy of Political and Social Science, the National Confederation of Charities and Corrections, and the Missouri Con¬ federation of Social Welfare. He was editor of the Saints Herald in 1917. He holds a membership in the University Club at Washington.

President Smith is a broad gauged man of massive intellect, demo¬ cratic in his personal manners and an affable and pleasant gentleman. The responsibility which he carries is considerable, but he fully measures up to the requirements of his position.

Elbert A. Smith, member of the first presidency of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, was born in Nauvoo, Ill., March 8, 1871, and is the only son of David H. and Clara (Hartshorn) Smith. David H. Smith was the youngest son of Joseph Smith the founder of the Church of Latter Day Saints. Clara (Hartshorn) Smith was the daughter of William and Charlotte (Eastman) Hartshorn.

David H. Smith was also born in Nauvoo, Ill., Nov. 18, 1844 and died in 1905. He was buried at Lamoni, Iowa, where the present church was first incorporated. The members of the First Presidency are: Frederick M. Smith and Elbert A. Smith.

Elbert A. Smith was educated in the public schools of Buena Vista, Iowa, and in 1900 entered the mission field for his church in California. He held a pastorate at Burlington, Iowa, and after completing his pastorate there he devoted much of his time to educational and literary work. He was editor of Autumn Leaves, the magazine for young people of the church from 1902 to 1919. He has also been a member of the editorial staff of the Herald since 1906. The presidency work takes up the greater part of the time of the subject of this review, as the presidency supervises the activities of the church in all the world. Mr. Smith's office is at the comer of Lexington and Rover Boulevard, opposite the church.

Mr. Smith is author of a book of poems entitled, "Hesperis" and he has also published two novels, "The Minister Who was Different", and "Joe Pine". All of these works having had an extensive sale.

Elbert A. Smith was married in 1895 to Miss Clara Cochran, of Lamoni, Iowa, a daughter of Asa and Mabel (Church) Cochran. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have two children: Ronald G. and Lynn E. Smith.

Mr. Smith has led a very active and useful life, as a minister, writer and publisher, besides his poems and books he has written and published many tracts dealing with the tenets of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints and religious matters. His whole time is de¬ voted to the upbuilding of his church and to spreading its influence through¬ out the country. He is a man of unusual scholastic attainments, and im¬ presses acquaintances as a deep thinker and profound student, who is sin¬ cere in his beliefs and teachings.

Walter Wayne Smith, clergyman and educator, bom near Somerset, Pulaski County, Ky., Sept. 21, 1878, son of Martin Beatty and Melissa A. (Stephens) Smith was the first of his family to leave the Smith Shoals neighborhood, the ancestral home of his family. George and Elizabeth (Roblin) Smith emigrated from Mulhausen in the Kingdom 'of Saxony to America and settled at the foot of the shoals of the Cumberland River, above Burnsides in Pulaski County, Ky., in the latter part of the 18th century. Their third son, Daniel, was born July 30, 1801, and he mar¬ ried Miss Elizabeth, daughter of James and Keziah (Moberly) Lee. Mr. Lee was a Virginian who had served in the Revolutionary War. Their son, William Wayne Smith, was bora April 20, 1825, and was named for Mad Anthony Wayne, under whom his grandfather had served in battle. Wil¬ liam Wayne Smith was married to Miss Polly Jane, daughter of Hiram Hughes, a veteran of the War of 1812, and his wife, Elizabeth (Massey) Hughes. To this marriage were born three sons and two daughters, the second son being the father of the subject of this sketch. Mr. Smith's mother was a daughter of Shadrach W. Stephens, M. D., and his wife, Nancy (Cannefax) Stephens, of Monticello, Wayne county, Ky. The Stephens family w'as an old colonial family, originating in the Isle of Wight in the days of feudalism.

Mr. Smith removed with his mother, brothers and sisters to Johnson County, Mo., in 1891, his father having died in 1889 where he was em¬ ployed at farming until the outbreak of the Spanish-American War. He enlisted as a private in Company L, Fourth Missouri Volunteer Infantry, and served throughout the war. During a part of this time, he held a com¬ mission as a Y. M. C. A. secretary with his regiment, under Mr. Banks of the Army Christian Commission. After his return from the army he went to Kansas' City in search of employment. He secured a position as a clerk in a wholesale house, and later entered the employ of a contractor and builder as time keeper, where he continued until the spring of 1900.

of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, by the general conference of 1900. He filled appointments in Kansas City and in Northern Missouri until April, 1904, when he was chosen pastor of the First Saints Church of Phila¬ delphia, Pa., which position he held until 1916, when he was chosen pastor of the First Saints, Stone Church, Independence, Mo., which numbered 3,100 members, being the largest congregation of its denomination. He was also made president of the Independence Stake or Conference, a posi¬ tion which he now holds. He served as editor of Zion's Ensign, missionaiy newspaper of the church during the years of 1916, 1917 and 1918. He was chosen General Church Historian in 1919 and editor of the Journal of His¬ tory. He is also a member of the Standing High Council, which is the Supreme Court of his denomination.

Walter Wayen Smith was married on Christmas Day, 1901, to Miss Maggie Eunice Winn, daughter of David F. and Elizabeth Jane (Howe) Winn of Kansas City, Mo. The Winns are descended from a long line of cavalier ancestry of Virginia, where they were settled in Fauquer County early in the 18th century. The emigrant Minor Winn or Wynne came from near Carnarvon, North Wales, the home of the family since the 8th Cen¬ tury, Mr. and Mrs. Smith have three sons ; Robert Wayne Smith, born in Kansas City, June 6, 1903 ; Dudley Winn Smith, born in Philadelphia, Pa., Dec, 24, 1905; and Ronald Martin Smith, born in Philadelphia. Pa., Sept. 23, 1909.

Mrs. Walter Wayne Smith is also an educator, having received her training in the public schools of Kansas City, Mo., Hatton College, Higbee, Mo., and graduated from the Teachers College Kindergarten Training School of Temple University, Philadelphia, Pa., in 1913. She subsequently took the degree of A. B. from Milton University. She is engaged in teach¬ ing, being registrar of the Independence Institute of which she was one of the founders, and she is now director of the Department of Normal Kindergarten Training. She is a member of the I, K. U., The Kindergarten Club of Kansas City, The Laurel Club of Independence and is author of the Sunday School Lessons, for the Beginners Grade of the Church.

Mr, Smith received his early education in the public schools of Pulaski County, Ky,, Chilhowee, Mo., and Holden, Mo. During the early years of his ministry, he devoted much time to study and research. He took a degree of Ph.B. from Potomac College in 1913, and in the same year he received his divinity degree. He graduated from the Teachers College of Temple University, Philadelphia, Pa., in 1916. He has been honored by the degree of M. A. by his divinity school. In connection with his minis- terial labors he has found time to teach almost continuously. He, with others, founded in 1916, the Independence Institute of Arts and Sciences and was chosen its principal in which capacity he continues. He is a lec¬ turer of Graceland College, Lamoni, Iowa. He is author of a Normal Teacher Training Text on the Book of Mormon. He is a member of the Archaelogical Institute of America, the National Geographic Society, tne State Historical Society of Missouri; and the Boy Scout Council of Inde¬ pendence. The family residence is at 631 Fuller Ave., Independence, Mo.

William G. Bronson, senior member of the Bronson and Page Hard¬ ware Company, is one of the hustling business men of Independence. The firm is composed of William G. Bronson and W. A. Page and was organized in December, 1914, succeeding the firm of Bronson and McCord which was started in 1909, succeeding The Jack Totty Hardware Company of Inde¬ pendence. Jack Totty was associated with Nichols, the pioneer hardware merchant of Independence. Bronson and Page carry a regular and com¬ plete line of hardware, paints, glass and do general plumbing,

William G. Bronson was born at Princeville, Ill., in 1864 and is a son of Ovando and Amanda (Morrow) Bronson, the former a native of Ohio and the latter a native of Illinois. Ovando Bronson settled in Andrew County, Mo., in 1877 and engaged in farming. He improved a good farm and reared his family in Andrew County, dying in 1898. Mrs. Bronson died in 1883. Their children are as follow: A. H., Fillmore, Mo.; Harriet Ellen Bronson, St. Joseph, Mo.; William G., subject of this review; A. E., in the employ of Swift and Company, Omaha, Neb.

William G. Bronson assisted his father on the home farm in Andrew County until he became of age and then followed farming and threshing on his own account for the next ten years. In 1901 he went to St. Joseph, Mo., and embarked in the dairy business. He followed this business for four years and was then in the employ of the St. Joseph Transfer Company until he came to Independence in May, 1909. In August of that year he associated himself with the Bronson and McCord Hardware Co., Ray A. McCord being his first partner.

Mr. Bronson was married in November, 1896, to Mamie Belle Guinn, of Fillmore, Mo., a daughter of James F. and Mary (Christie) Guinn, both of whom are deceased. To this marriage have been bom two children; Guinn William, aged seven years, and Herschel Clay.

The Bronson family residence is located at 1219 West Walnut street. Mr. Bronson is a member of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints.

William Bostian, proprietor of the Bostian Confectionery, at 114 North Liberty street, ex-postmaster of Independence, was born on a fann in the Mt. Washington neighborhood, Feb. 9, 1861. He is a son of Henry and Margaret (Young) Bostian.

Henry Bostian was born in Germany, and immigrated to America in 1856. During the Civil War he served in the Missouri State Militia, un¬ der Captain Smith, his company being mustered into the Union service at Independence. He met his death at the hands of QuantrelFs men, Oct. 11, 1865 - months after the close of the war. His widow survived him for many years, and died in July, 1908. Both are buried at Woodland ceme¬ tery. The children born to Hemy and Margaret Bostian are as follow: Mrs. Henrietta Rex, Paola, Kan.; Mrs. Augusta Pettis, Belton, Mo.; Mrs. Anna Gibson, Independence; Henry, a barber in Independence; William Bostian, of this review.

The first school which William Bostian attended was a private school, taught by Professor Clay, at the corner of Linn and Walnut streets, and he also attended the seminary, which occupied the site of the Ott School. After leaving school he learned the barber's trade, and followed it for 23l^ years. He was appointed postmaster of Independence in 1901, by President McKinley, and served for 12 Va years, under Presidents Roosevelt, Taft and Wilson. Mr. Bostian purchased his present confec¬ tionery business of George B. Foster, in 1913. The Bostian Confectionery enjoys a splendid trade, from six to ten clerks being employed.

William Bostian was married Sept. 15, 1886, to Miss Margaret Hinters, of Independence, a daughter of Peter and Margaret Hinters, both of whom are deceased. The children born to this marriage are as follow: William B., Madeline, Kenneth, Margaret Mary, Lawrence A. and Louise.

William B. is a practicing attorney in Kansas City, associated with R. R. Brewster, in the Scarritt Building. He served as a lieutenant with a machine gun battalion in the National Army during the World War. For ten months he was an artillery instructor in France, receiving his commission at Fort Sheridan, Nov. 28, 1917. He arrived in France in January, 1918, and was on the firing line between Cambria and St. Quentin, and fought at Bonne and Bullecourt, was an officer of Company C, One Hundred and Fifth battalion of machine gunners. Madeline is the wife of Paul Reese Rider, St. Louis, Mo. Mr. Rider is an instructor in Washington University. He served as second lieutenant in the coast artillery, and was stationed at Fort Worden,. Wash., during his seiwice in the World War. A sketch of Captain Kenneth V. Bostian appears in this history. Miss Margaret Mary Bostian is supervising instructor in home economics, l^niversity High School, Columbia, Mo. Lawrence A. Bostian is a student in the State University, at Columbia, Mo. During the World War he was a member of the Fifty-sixth artillery, and was in the officers' training school at Camp Taylor when the armistice was signed. Louise Bostian is a student in the State University, at Columbia, Mo.

The Bostian family residence is located at 602 North Delaware street. Mr. Bostian is a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, and is past State president of this order. He is also affiliated with the Modern Wood¬ men of America and the Yeomen.

Walter I. and Charles E. Betts, jewelers and opticians, have a flourish¬ ing and profitable business at 128 North Maple street, conducted under the' name of Betts Brothers. The business was first established by W. I. Betts, April 16, 1915 at 217 West Maple, later moving to the Battery Block. The fiiTn carries a complete and splendid line of watches, clocks, diamonds, gold and silver jewelry, cut glass ware, and such goods as are usually found in a first class modern jewelry store. Charles E. Betts is a graduate of the National School of Optometry at St. Louis and practiced his profession at Belleville, Ill. and St. Louis, Mo., prior to associating himself with his brother. He is licensed to practice optometry in the state of Illinois and is a member of the S. W. Illinois Optometrical Club. He was born in Belle¬ ville, Ill., April 29, 1883 and was educated in the schools of his native city. For a number of years he was with the Scrugg-Vandeiwoort, Barney Dry Goods Company of St. Louis, in a managerial capacity. He is affiliated with the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Belleville, Ill.

Walter I. Betts was bom in Belleville. Ill., Oct. 11, 1885 and is a graduate of the St. Louis Horological School, completing his course in this school on March 1, 1915. He then came to Independence and established the present business.

The parents of Walter 1. and Charles E. Betts are Joseph E. and Flor¬ ence (Crowson) Betts. Joseph E. Betts was born July 24, 1856 and died in Milwaukee, Wis., Oct. 22, 1913. He was a son of Joseph E. Betts, Sr., who was born in Warwickshire, England, June 7, 1836 and died Dec. 8, 1911. His wife that is, the wife of Joseph E. Betts, Sr., was Mary Marie Jacques, bom in Warwickshire, England, in 1835 and died Dec. 7, 1889. They removed from England to Belleville, Ill., in 1868 and established a home there, where both died. Joseph E. Betts, Jr., was married to Flor¬ ence Crow'son, who was born in Alton, Ill., March 17, 1860, a daughter of Charles and Charlotte Crowson, the former of whom was bom in Warwick-

Joseph Betts, Sr. and his son Joseph Betts, Jr. were engaged in coal mining in the Belleville, Ill. coal field, and operated several mines in that vicinity.

Charlotte (Jarvis) Crowson was a daughter of George and Ann Jarvis, the former of whom was born in Yorkshire, England, in 1816 and died in 1895, and the latter born in 1822 and died in 1884. She was born in Birm¬ ingham, England. George and Ann Jarvis were married in 1840 and emigi'ated from England to America in 1852 and settled at Alton, Ill.

Robei't Edwards, and Mary (Rice) Edwards, great grand parents of Mrs. Florence Betts were born in Birmingham, England and came to America when 70 years of age, remained here four years and then re¬ turned to England in 1878, dying there.

Walter I. Betts was married to Caroline Stonger of Independence, June 20, 1912. She is a daughter of Philip and Sarah (Crook) Stonger of Pana, 111., both of whom are residing in Independence. Mr. and Mrs. Betts have a daughter, Thelma Vione Betts. They reside at 822 West White Oak street.

Henry Bostian, barber and city councilman from the Second Ward, whose place of business is located in the basement of the Clinton Build¬ ing, Independence, is a native of this city. He was born March 14, 1869, and is a son of Henry and Margaret (Young) Bostian. His brother. Henry Bostian is proprietor of the Bostian confectionery and is a former post¬ master of Independence. Further details concerning the parents of Mr. Bostian of this sketch will be found elsewhere in this volume in the sketch of Wm. Bostian.

After attending the public schools of Jackson County, Henry Bostian, at the age of 15 years, learned the trade of barber in the shop of his brother William and Mr. Helff. When his brother, William Bostian was appointed postmaster of Independence, Mr. Bostian purchased the shop. He moved to his present location in 1909 and now operates a three chair shop and has an excellent and profitable trade. He has been in business for the past 31 years, constantly and is one of the real pioneer business men of the city.

garet Joseph, both of whom are deceased. Mr. Henry died when the pres¬ ent Mrs. Bostian was a child. During the latter years of her life, Mrs. Joseph made her home with her daughter, Mrs. Bostian. Both parents are buried in the Catholic cemetery.

To Henry and Josephine Bostian has been bom one son, Joseph H. Bostian, Jr., who is in the employ of the Sugar Creek Oil Refinery at Sugar Creek, Mo. He married Miss Delsie Smith and they have one son, Joseph H., Jr.

Henry Bostian is affiliated with the Fraternal Order of Eagles of Inde¬ pendence and for the past year he has filled the office of councilman from the Second Ward of his home city, having been elected in April, 1918.

Ambrose E. Elliot, proprietor of the Independence Wholesale Candy Company, 211 West Lexington street. Independence, was born in Nelson County, Ky., Dec. 2, 1867. He is a son of Benjamin F. and Martha (Curry) Elliot, both of whom were natives of Kentucky.

Benjamin F. Elliot left Kentucky and located at Parsons, Kan. and lived there for five years, Mrs. Elliot dying there. Mr. Elliot died near Frankfort, Mo. During the Civil War he served as recruiting officer for the Federal army in Nelson County, Ky. The children born to Benjamin F. and Martha Elliot are as follow : James, died at the age of 21 years ; Mrs. Lizzie Herke, deceased; Mrs. L. S. Moore, Kansas City; Hattie Elliot, de¬ ceased ; Robert M., Galena, Kan. ; Benjamin Franklin and George, Pitcher, Okla. ; Ambrose E., of this sketch ; William, died in infancy.

After attending the public schools in Kansas and Missouri, Ambrose E. Elliott was employed in a grocery store at Stanley, Indian Territory, and later engaged in the lumber business at Joplin, Mo. He came to Independ¬ ence in 1900 and started a lumber yard in 1901 on Lexington street. He conducted this business until 1906 when he sold out and purchased an inter¬ est in a planing mill in partnership with C. G. Stewart and the firm was afterwards known as Stewart and Elliot Planing Mill Company. After Stewart sold his interest the firm was known as the Independence Planing Mill Company, Mr. Elliot retaining his interest until after 1910, at which time the plant was destroyed by fire, but was afterwards rebuilt. Shortly after the fire, Mr. Elliot disposed of his planing mill interests and engaged in the real estate business in 1911. He had traded his planing mill inter¬ est for a moving picture show in Kansas City, located at 1123 Grand ave¬ nue and operated this for about three years. He then sold the theatre and purchased another at 107 East Twelfth street which he operated until

The Independence Wholesale Candy Company was established in 1901 by M. S. White who began business with a one horse wagon, manufactured candy and sold his output on the city streets. As he sold candy, he put the proceeds into more candy and gradually enlarged the business until it embraced jobbing. Mr. Elliot purchased the business in April, 1919.

Mr. Elliot was married in 1895 to Rose J. Bearly of Seligman, Mo., who has borne him six children: William Russell Elliot, associated with his father in the business ; Gladys, Oneda, Paul, Everett and Wilma.

The Elliot family residence is situated at 618 S. Crysler street. Mr. Elliot is a member of the Loyal Order of Moose and is a Shriner and a 32nd degree Mason.

William Russell Elliot was born in Stanley, Indian Territory, July 2, 1896. He enlisted on March 19, 1917, at Kansas City, Mo., in the United States navy, and was sent to the Great Lakes Naval Training Station for training. From this station he was sent to Norfolk, Va., and thence to Key West, Fla., transferred from the U. S. S. Mars to the U. S. S. Charles¬ ton, in the First Fleet Division of Battle Cruisers. From Key West his ship proceeded to St. Thomas, in the West Indies and thence to Port Au Prince and returned to Philadelphia after a month's cruise. The ship was then sent to New York, then to Newport, R. I., and back to New York and accompanied the first convoy of the American Expeditionary Forces to France under General Pershing, arriving in France June 28, 1917. The Charleston crossed the Atlantic 24 times and during the voyages William R. Elliot saw several German submarines and had the pleasure of seeing them shot at from his ship, taking part in the shooting. His rank on the ship was that of boatswains mate, second class. He was placed on board ship 19 days after enlistment and was on the water in the service two years, four months and 25 days. He was mustered out of service Sept. 3, 1919 at Denver, Colo. His ship passed through the Panama Canal twice. On one occasion he nearly lost his life. During a severe storm at sea, he was washed overboard by a great wave and knocked senseless by contact with the ship while overboard, but was rescued by a chief boatswain's mate and two sailors, and was none the worse for his mishap after five days in the ship hospital. He is now associated with his father in the wholesale candy business. He is a member of Tirey J. Ford Post, of the American Legion and is affiliated with the Loyal Order of Moose.

May Grain Company. - The May Grain Company, 407 South Liberty street, Independence, Mo., was organized by Nephi and Alvin May, in 1911. The May Coal Company owned and operated by William H. May, is located at the same address.

Roderick May, father of Nephi, Alvin and William H. May, was born in Scotland, in 1850. He immigrated to Canada in. 1882 and was there mar¬ ried to Sarah J. Lively, who was a native of Canada, born in 1855. He came to Independence, Mo., in 1884 and established a cooperage business on the present site of the May Grain Company. He operated this factory for over 20 years and did a thriving and prosperous business, employing 50 men at times. He later engaged in the coal mining industry and oper¬ ated a coal mine at Napoleon, Mo. He sold his mining interests in 1911 and moved to London, England. The children bom to Roderick and Sarah J. May are as follow: Charles May, Independence, Mo.; Nephi and Alvin May; Elizabeth Pearl, widow of J. V. Crick, now resides in London, Eng¬ land. Her husband was a native of Independence, and a son of William Crick; William H.

Alvin May was born in Independence, Mo., in 1884. After gTaduating from the local high school he engaged in coal mining with his father until entering his present business. He was married in 1911 to Clara A. Brad¬ bury, a daughter of Mrs. Lillie Bradbury, of Kansas City, Kan. Three children have been born to this marriage: Alvin R., Doris and Rowena. The residence of Alvin and Mrs. May is at 1011 W. W^hite Oak. Mr. May is a member of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, Lodge No. 76, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Knights of Pythias.

Nephi May was bom in Kansas City, Kan. in 1880 and educated in the grade and high school of Independence. He pursued a business course at Graceland College, Lamoni, Iowa, and later attended Spalding's Com¬ mercial College, Kansas City. He assisted his father in the cooperage factoiy and was also associated with him in the mining industry at Napoleon prior to entering the wholesale and retail grain business with his brother. He was married to Anna Crick, a daughter of William Crick, and they have five children: Dorothy, Russell, Elizabeth, Gilbert and Alice. Nephi May and the family reside on East Ninth street, Kansas City, Mo.

William H. May, of the May Coal Company, dealers in coal and build¬ ing material, was bom in Independence, Dec. 27, 1889. After attending the Independence schools he entered Graceland College at Lamoni, Iowa, where he studied for some time. He served as bookkeeper for the Inde¬ pendence Coal Company in which his father was financially interested and engaged in the retail coal business in 1912. He was married on June 17, 1916 to Lulu W. Simmons, a daughter of C. G. and Carlotta Simmons of Independence. One son was bom of this union, William Henry, Jr. The family residence is at 1027 W. White Oak. Mr. May is a member of the Yeoman Lodge.

Charles W. Latimer, chief deputy in the office of the county treasurer, Independence, Mo., is a native of Jackson County. He was born August 31, 1871, and is a son of Judge James Latimer and Susan (Williamson) Latimer, the latter of whom was bom in Kentucky in 1844 and the former was born in Roanoke County, Va., in 1837.

James Latimer came to Jackson County in 1852 with his father, Samuel Latimer. They settled in Fort Osage township, developed a farm, and Samuel Latimer and his wife died on the place. After the home place was sold, James Latimer purchased the John Sanders farm, located three miles southeast of Independence, upon which he resided until his death in 1915. Mrs. Susan Latimer resides on East Rubey street, Independence. The children of the Latimer family are: W. R., a farmer in Blue town¬ ship; Stella, widow of D. B. Hedges, Independence; Nannie, wife of A. G. Williamson, Maywood ; Mary, wife of C. J. Powell, Blue township ; Charles W., subject of this sketch; J. J. Latimer died in March, 1919, aged 45 years; Jennie Latimer, at home; Retta, wife of Judge Allen C. Southern, Kansas City, Mo. ; M. M. Latimer, a live stock dealer. Independence ; Grover C. Latimer died at the age of 11 years.

James Latimer served as a judge of the county court of Jackson County from 1892 to 1896. It is said of him that he was a careful and conscientious county official who gave the county a splendid administration which was noted for an economical and careful expenditure of the county funds. Judge Latimer would not permit the signing of a warrant for funds unless there were funds in the county treasury to immediately pay the warrant. As a result when his term expired there was money left in the treasury. He was one of the organizers of the Christian church at Bone Hill and filled the office of elder of this church for several years. He was prominent in the affairs of the Democratic party during his whole life.

Charles W. Latimer was educated in the Missouri State University, re¬ ceiving the degree of Doctor of Laws. After graduation he practiced law for six months and took considerable interest in political matters in the county. He has been identified prominently with the Democratic party for several years and has filled the post of deputy county clerk, deputy county collector, deputy county assessor, deputy highway engineer, and is at present filling the post of deputy in the office of the county treasurer.

Mr. Latimer was married in March, 1910, to Kathryn D. George of Lees Summit, Mo., a daughter of Richard and Martha George, both of whom are deceased, and further mention of whom is given in connection with the sketch of Todd M. George, county treasurer. One son was born to Mr. and Mrs. Latimer, Charles W., Jr., who died in infancy. They have an adopted son, C. W., Jr., aged ten years.

Mr. and Mrs. Latimer are also rearing John Holbert Haynes, a nephew of Mrs. Latimer. The Latimer residence is located at 121 E. Kansas street. Mr. Latimer is a member of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, Blue Lodge. No. 76, the Knights of Pythias and he is a member of the Presby¬ terian church.

Dr. Edgar S. Harris, specialist in the treatment of diseases of the eye, ear, nose and throat, with offices in the Hill Building, Independence, Mo., is a native of Jackson County. He was born Dec. 25, 1876, on a farm in Van Buren township, and is a son of John Reuben and Mary E (Corn) Harris.

John Reuben Harris was also born in Van Buren township in 1850 and is a son of Fleming and Mary Harris and grandson of William and Rhoda Harris who settled in the Blue Springs neighborhood in 1832. Mrs. Rhoda Harris was one of those rare characters which history frequently tells about and whose accomplishments are handed down to younger generations as part of the folk lore of the olden times, when doctors were few in the country and when simple remedies were in vogue among the settlers when illness came upon them. Mrs. Harris was an adept in caring for the sick and ailing and had some knowledge of medicine, which could be brewed from native herbs. She would travel for miles to succor a sick person and when illness came upon a family she would leave her own fireside and give her time and talents toward alleviating the distress of her neighbors. She was one of the most capable and best beloved women of the Blue Springs country and will long be remembered by such of the old settlers as still live in that part of the county. The Harris family is one of the oldest and most prominent families of Jackson County and the family ties are bound closely among its members. Each year a reunion of the descendants of William and Rhoda Harris is held either at Lees Summit, Greenview or Blue Springs and members of this family to the number of 200 or 300 are in attendance.

John R. Harris has always been a farmer and now resides on a fann which he purchased in 1918, on the Buckner road, in Fort Osage township. Mrs. I'Tary E. Harris died in 1907 and is buried in the cemetery at Six Mile church. When Order No. 11 was issued during the Civil War, the

Harris family removed to Carroll County and remained there until they were privileged to return. In the meantime, young John H. Harris made several perilous trips back and forth between the home farm and the temporary home in Carroll County, his method of transportation being with ox teams. The following children were born to John R. and Mary E; Harris: D. L. Harris, a commission merchant at Fort Worth, Texas; Dr. Edgar S. Harris of this review; John E. Harris, manager of a factory branch of the Ideal Tire and Rubber Company of Cleveland, Ohio, in Kan¬ sas City; Mrs. Nora E. Mann, Blue Springs, Mo.; Mrs. Nellie Strode, Blue Springs.

Edgar S. Harris was educated in the public schools of his native county, Ryan College, at Ryan, Okla., the University at Fort Worth, Texas, and the University of Kansas, graduating from the Medical Department of the latter institution in 1899. Dr. Harris has never ceased to study for advancement in the science of his profession, however, and during the past 20 years he has been a constant student. He pursued a course at the Chicago Polyclinic in 1906, and has taken a post-graduate course in the University of Kansas. He began the practice of his profession at Oak Grove, Mo., in 1899, and practiced in that town for three years. He then practiced at Buckner for the next four years. After four years spent in practice at Higginsville, Mo., he located at Independence, Mo., in 1913, and has met with unqualified success in this city. Dr. Harris' offices are lo¬ cated in the Hill Building, on the northeast corner of the court house square.

Dr. Harris was married April 12, 1899, to Miss Lydia E. Lewis, of Tarsney, Jackson County, Missouri, a daughter of C. M. and Eliza E. (Per¬ due) Lewis, both of whom are living at Tarsney. Dr. and Mrs. Harris have one son, Lewis, aged 12 years, a junior in the high school.

Dr. Harris is a member of the Jackson County Medical Society, and is affiliated with the Royal Neighbors, the Modem Woodmen of America, and the Yeomen. The Harris family residence is located at 619 South Main, Independence.

Fred Witthar, owner of a fine farm in Blue township, which he has owned and built up by his own efforts since coming to Jackson County, in 1877, is a native of Franklin County, Mo. He was bora Oct. 3, 1856, and is a son of Henry and Mary Witthar, who came to Jackson County in 1877, resided on a farm on Bone Hill, in Fort Osage township, for the first six years, and then located on the Gossett place in Blue township, where both spent the remainder of their days. Henry Witthar died July 30,

Fred Witthar. Mrs. Fred Witthar

1914, and his wife died July 6, 1916, and their remains are buried in Elm¬ wood cemetery. The Witthar children are as follow: Henry, Independ¬ ence, Mo. ; Mrs. Catherine Drewel, Buckner, Mo. ; Mrs. Lottie Borgmann, Buckner, Mo.; Mrs. Amelia Carl, Boonville, Mo.; Fred, the subject of this review; Christ, a farmer in Blue township; and Mrs. Louise Carl, livingin Blue township.

Fred Witthar was reared and educated in Franklin County, and after coaming to Jackson County, he followed dairying for about 15 years. He worked at farm labor by the month until 24 years of age, at $12 to $15 per month. He saved his money until he was able to buy a team and then rented land until he had earned and saved sufficient money to make a first payment on his farm. He first purchased 90 acres of the Gossett place, in 1886. He bought 97 acres of the Jonathan Alley farm in 1909, and later bought an additional four and a half acres. He has recently sold 47.5 acres of his holdings at high prices, and now has 50 acres, on which is an orchard of three acres, which is his home place, besides the 90-acre fann first purchased.

Mr. Witthar was married in 1880 to Caroline Borgmann, of Warren County, Mo., a daughter of William A. and Helena Borgmann, both of whom died in Warren County. Seven children have been born to Fred and Caroline Witthar, as follow: Mrs. Emma Twiehaus, Blue to-wnship; Edwin, living in Blue township; William, John, Meta, Anna and Lydia.

Mr. Witthar has served for 16 years as school director of his district. He is public spirited and much interested in providing for the education of the young, having donated a half acre of ground for the Pitcher School, which is located on his place. He is a successful citizen, who is now amply able and content to take life easily and enjoy the coming years by living frugally and working moderately. He and his family are members of the Evangelical church.

B. C. Harder, grocery merchant. Independence, Mo., while a new comer to this city, has given evidence of decided business ability, and is building up a splendid trade with the people of Independence and vicinity. He -was born in Huron County, Mich., July 31, 1880. His father, Abraham Harder, was a native of Canada, born in 1832 and died at his home in Michigan at the age of 67 years. His mother, Mrs. Mary (Shippey) Harder, was a native of New York and died in 1895 at the age of 61 years. Both of Mr. Harder's parents are buried at Baypoid, Mich. They were the parents of 13 children, as follow : James and John, deceased ; Frederick, Flint, Mich, ; Mrs. Caroline Grant, Ba5T)ort, Mich.; Mrs. Kittie Bradley, Grand Rapids,

Minn.; Mrs. Anna Johnson, Standish, Mich.; Adam, Longville, Minn.; Den¬ nis, deceased; Wesley, Flint, Mich.; George, Baypoii;, Mich.; Eugene, Beaverton, Mich. ; B. C., of this review ; and Charles, deceased.

Since he was 14 years of age B. C. Harder has made his own living. He left the parental farm when 19 years old and has followed various occu¬ pations since that time. Much of the time has been spent as a machinist at which trade he was an adept, but owing to failing health he was com¬ pelled to go into other lines of business. For the past 11 years he has followed the grocery business, beginning his career in a grocery store at Flint, Mich. He came to Jackson County in January, 1914, and was in the employ of Charles F. Davis for some time. He opeijed his present grocery establishment in January, 1919, and has an excellent trade.

Nov. 11, 1919, aiTnistice day, Mr. Harder placed on display in his win¬ dow one of the most unique patriotic displays ever seen in the city. He pre¬ pared an American flag, using red cranberries for the red stripes, white navy beans for the white stripes of the flag, and the stars were made of lima beans on a blue background. This feature excited much comment of a favorable nature from observers.

Mr. Harder was married Aug. 10, 1908 to Rachel A. Dowker, of Flint, Mich., a daughter of William and Hannah Dowker. The two children born of this union were : Eythel died at the age of two and a half years, and Mona died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Harder reside at 224 Pendleton street.

Henry P. Chiles, farmer and stockman, and deputy county clerk. In¬ dependence, Mo., is a native of Jackson County, and is a member of one of the oldest and most prominent of the pioneer families of this section of Missouri. His grandfather, Joel Franklin Chiles, came from Kentucky to Jackson County in 1832, and settled in Fort Osage township. He operated a general store at Fort Osage for several years. He entered several hun¬ dred acres of land and accumulated sufficient acreage to give each of his children a f'lrm. A biographical sketch of Joel Franklin Chiles appears in this volume.

Henry P. Chiles was born on his father's farm in Fort Osage township, east of Buckner, May 25, 1882. He is a son of the late Henry C. and Julia (PeiTin) Chiles, a sketch of whom appears in this volume. Henry P. Chiles, of this review, was educated in the public and high schools of Inde¬ pendence, graduating from the high school in 1901. For four years he was employed in the general offices of the Kansas City Southern Railway Com¬ pany, and then returned to the home farm. The Chiles farm consists of 150 acres, and is the old homestead of his father. The residence, which was built of native timber, prior to the Civil War, is still standing in a good state of preservation. Mr. Chiles is engaged in general farming and stock raising, and maintains a herd of 15 dairy cows on his place. The Chiles farm is situated 12 miles east of Independence, on the Lexington rock road, and is known as the Crooked Run Farm, taking its name from the branch which lams through the land. In addition to managing his farm, Mr. Chiles is filling the post of deputy county clerk of Jackson County, under Peter J. Kelly.

Mr. Chiles was married March 9, 1905, to Miss Virgie May Ragan, a daughter of J. J. and Susan (Warren) Ragan. The grandfather of Mrs. Chiles owned the site of the city of Warrensburg, Mo., and the city was named in his honor. J. J. Ragan died in 1912, and is buried at Lees Sum¬ mit, Mo. Mrs. Ragan resides at Lees Summit, Mo. Four children have been born to Henry P. and Virgie May Chiles, as follow. John Henry, Jean Tate, Julia Warren, died at the age of 14 months, and Virginia Ragan died at the age of nine months.

J. J. Ragan was a son of Greenbury Ragan and Jane (Tate) Ragan, pio¬ neers of Jackson County, near Raytown. Jane (Tate) Ragan was a daugh¬ ter of George Tate, a pioneer settler of the Lone Jack neighborhood, becom¬ ing a large land owner.

James C. Graves, veteran of the Civil War, octogenarian, for many years a noted trainer of horses, and breeder of thoroughbred animals, 1003 Dodgin street, was bom in Woodford County, Kentucky, Aug. 27, 1837. He is a son of Reuben and Elizabeth (Cox) Graves, both of whom were natives of Virginia, and early settlers of Woodford County, Kentucky, where both died, the former at the age of 42 years, and the latter at the age of 67 years. Out of seven children born to this couple only one, James C., of this sketch, is living. The others were: Charles H., W. H., John, Thomas, Hannah and Bessie Savage.

In 1858 James C. Graves left the old home in Kentucky and went to Saline County, Missouri. He had no sooner got established in Saline County than the nation was plunged into Civil War. True to tradition and love of his old home section, he cast his lot with the Southern states and enlisted in the Confederate Army, under Capt. Gale Brown in 1861. He served* under Gen. Joe Shelby and fought at the battles of Lexington and Pea Ridge, and took part in a hot battle at Coon Creek and many skirm¬ ishes. He served in the ranks until 1864, and was then detailed as a scout until the close of the war. He remained in Kentucky after the close of the war, and was there married to Miss Laura Grady, of Woodford County, in 1865. She was born in that county, and died there in 1866. Mr. Graves was again married in 1868 to Mary E. Huggins, of Jessamine County, Ken¬ tucky. The children born to this marriage are: Ollie B., died in 1917, and is buried in Mount Washington cemetery, Kansas City; Mrs. Laura M. White, Kansas City ; Mrs. Bessie Savage, died at the age of 22 years ; Reu¬ ben died when five years old; Ernest died at the age of 16; and J. T. Graves, a dealer in automobile tires. Independence, Mo.

For 65 years James C. Graves has bred and trained riding and driving horses, and has won a national reputation as a horseman. During his long career he has won over 2,000 premiums at county and State fairs, and rac¬ ing meets in all parts of the United States. His best track winners made records of from 2:14 to 2:30. The first horse which he bred and trained was "Donald McKay." He also bred and trained "Armoral," with a record of 2:17%, a famous pacer sired by "Don Pizarro," who held the world's record for a three-year-old at 2:14%. The dam of "Armoral" was "Alle¬ gro," also owned by Mr. Graves, and she was out of dam by "Jean Val Jean," record 2:14. Mr. Graves exhibited his horses in Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Missouri, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Arkan¬ sas and California. In the fall of 1917 "Urbanos" took part in 30 races, winning ten first and ten seconds, and three third prizes. He won a race in 2:17% at Corning, Iowa.

"Beacon McGregor," another famous trotter, owned by Mr. Graves, in one season out of seven races in which he was entered, won five firsts, among them being two $1,000.00 purses, and closed the season with a rec¬ ord of 2:14%. At Dallas, Texas, Mr. Graves, with "Decoration," won a $1,000.00 purse in 2:15%, in a field of 14 entries.

In 1917 Mr. Graves purchased a horse on the streets of Independence, named "Allie Ashbrook," a four-year-old, which he trained and won three $1,000.00 purses, and sold him that fall to Ed. Greer for $2,500.00 and a mare whose sire was "The Harvester," with a record of 2:01. Mr. Graves bred "Old Black Squirrel" at Independence, Mo., and "Chester Dan" and many other fine stallions who have figured in turf history of the country.

At Lawrenceburg, Ky., he showed his horses 21 times, and took 18 first and two second premiums. In 1889 Mr. Graves brought five head of Shorthorn cattle from Woodford County, Kentucky, and sold them 'to Ed. Graves, of Saline County, Missouri. These cattle were later exhibited and won premiums at the Lexingdon Fair. One of them, "Imported Downhorn," dam of "Fannie Forrester," was the most noted show animal in

Missouri and won more blue ribbons than any other animal at that time. She was formerly owned by Gus Shropshire, of Kentucky. Mr. Graves also owned "Blackeagle," sire of "Black Squirrel." The fine strain of saddle horses owned by Lulu Long have come from the old "Black Squirrel" stock of Kentucky.

Mr. Graves came to Independence in April, 1914, and purchased his present home at 1003 Dodgin street. His residence is a modern house of nine rooms, built of brick, and having a large bam at the rear of the premises.

Although past the great age of four score years, Mr. Graves is as well preserved as many men 30 years younger. Nov. 11, 1919, he marched in the armistice day parade, walking one mile up town from his home, march¬ ing in the parade, and then walking back to his home, and felt no ill effects from the exertion. It is his intention to handle racing horses until he is 100 years old. He loves horses, and his interest in fine animals keeps him young and active.

George S. Martin, 111 West Lexington street, proprietor of a meat market on the south side of the court house square, was born in Fayette County, Ohio, in 1863. He is a son of John V. B. Martin. His father was a veteran of the Civil War. He enlisted in an Ohio regiment for service with the Union Army, and served for two years in the South. In 1867 he came west to Missouri, and settled at Wayne City, some years later remov¬ ing to Independence, where he died, Jan. 21, 1919. Mrs. Martin died in California, May. 9, 1914. The children born to John V. B. and wife are as follow: Jennie, deceased; J. W. Martin, Independence; J. R., a butcher in Kansas City; George S. Martin, of this review; Minnie, wife of T. V. Cor¬ nell, Independence, Mo. ; Ollie, wife of J. W. Ramsey, Independence ; Jessie L., wife of Martin Welch, Independence ; Lilia,- wife of Ernest Jones, Kan¬ sas City; Leona, wife of F. M. Booth, Independence; Josephine, wife of David Ward, Los Angeles, Calif. ; Warner Martin, Los Angeles, Calif. ; Ru¬ fus Martin died at the age of seven years.

The schooling of George S. Martin was obtained at old Gilpintown, and in Kansas City. For five years he followed farming, after attaining ma¬ turity, and then spent five years in Wyoming as a cowboy. After his west¬ ern experience he returned to Independence and in October, 1889, he em¬ barked in the meat market business, and has followed it for the past 31 years. During his period of service as a cowboy in Wyoming, Mr. Martin helped to drive a large herd of 1,650 cattle from Ogalalla, Neb., to north¬ west Wyoming.

Besides his business in Independence Mr. Martin is owner of a farm of 80 acres situated in Johnson County, ten miles east of Warrensburg, and one mile south of Knob Noster.

Mr. Martin was married Dec. 23, 1891, to Mrs. Mary Warren, a daugh¬ ter of Adolph and Margaret Warren, of Schell City, Mo. Adolph Warren died in Independence. Mrs. Margaret Warren lives at Jefferson City, Mo., with her daughter, Mrs. J. L. Scott. Mr. and Mrs. Martin have two chil¬ dren: Clarence W., now located near Los Angeles, Calif., in the aviation service of the United States Army. He enlisted at Minneapolis, and was crippled while serving in France. The tail of his airplane was shot off when at a height of 5,000 feet, and in the fall to the ground, his driver was killed and he, himself, was badly wounded. He lay unconscious for three days, and after recovering he went to California and is employed as an electrician. Theodore Overton Martin is associated with his father in the business.

The Martins reside at 312 West College street, where they have lived for the past 15 years. Mr. Martin is a charter member of the Woodmen of the World. i i - 'vllj

L. E. Rood, proprietor of a sheet metal and furnace shop, 115 East Lexington street, Independence, Mo., was born at Appleton City, St. Clair County, Missouri, and is a son of J. L. and Sarah C. (Troup) Rood, the former of whom was a native of Norway, and immigrated to America with his parents when three years of age, and was reared at Madison, Wis. He migrated to Missouri and settled on a farm near Appleton City, in 1865. After some years spent on the farm he removed to Appleton City, and en¬ gaged in the hardware business. He remained in this business until just a few years prior to his death, which occurred July 25, 1919. His widow resides in Appleton City.

Upon the outbreak of the Civil War, J. L. Rood enlisted in a Wiscon¬ sin regiment of Union volunteers, and served as corporal of his company. He was wounded through the right lung by a minnie ball, and did not re¬ turn to the service after convalescing. He was a charter member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of Appleton City, and at the time of his death was the last surviving charter member of his lodge.

The children of J. L. and Sarah C. Rood are as follow: Mary Rood, Kansas City; Mrs. Emma Sallee, Pomona, Calif.; H. F. Rood, Hardin, Colo. ; Ludema, wife of R. R. McCoy, Kansas City, Kan. ; L. E. Rood, sub¬ ject of this sketch; Mrs. Gertie Hamilton, Kansas City, Kan.; William H. Rood, Garden City, Mo.; Albert M. Rood, died at the age of 33 years at

After his graduation from the Appleton City High School in 1901, L. E. Rood entered his father's hardware store and assisted his father until his removal to Independence in 1904. For the next ten years he was in the employ of the Independence Hardware Company. In 1915 he em¬ barked in the hardware business at the corner of Thirteenth street and Quindaro boulevard, Kansas City, and was located there for four years. Nov. 1, 1919, he opened his present establishment at 115 East Lexington street. Mr. Rood has had a good business from the very start, and is building up a fine patronage. He is thorough in his work and knows the trade of sheet metal and furnace worker from the ground up.

Mr. Rood was married in 1912 to Anna B. Hills, a daughter of E. E. and Myra Elizabeth (Yale) Hills, of Independence. One daughter has been born of this union: Mildred Elizabeth. The Rood family residence is located at 133 West Sea avenue.

Mr. Rood's grandfather Troup was reared in Illinois, and was an early settler in Bates County, Missouri. He died when past 80 years of age, while on his way from Missouri to Oklahoma, and his remains are interred in the Appleton City cemetery.

Charles P. McCumber, grocery and meat market proprietor, 113 South Main street. Independence, was born in Carroll County, Missouri, Feb. 11, 1872. He is a son of George S. and Elizabeth (Henry) McCumber, both of whom are deceased.

George S. McCumber was a native of Scotland, who settled in Meigs County, Ohio, some years prior to the Civil War. He enlisted in the Union Army soon after the outbreak of the Civil War, and served as drummer boy for three years as a soldier in the Fourth West Virginia regiment, which was recruited from the towns on both sides of the Ohio River in Ohio and West Virginia. After the close of the war he came to Missouri, resided for some years in Carroll County, and later located at Junction City, Kan., where both he and his wife died. Their children were as follow : James was accidentally drowned at Carrollton, Mo., at the age of 32 years; Mrs. Rebecca Ellsworth, Junction City, Kan. ; Mrs. Kate McCorkle, Seattle, Wash.; Mrs. Mary White, Seattle, Wash.; Alonzo McCumber, Junction City, Kan.; Charles P., of this review; Anna, wife of G. B. Henry, Junction City, Kan., and George S., deceased.

Junction City, Kan., and operated a shop for nine years prior to locating in Independence, Sept. 15, 1914. Mr. McCumber opened a market at the cor¬ ner of Lexington and Union streets, which he operated for four years, and then, in 1917, he located his business at 113 South Main street, where he has one of the largest and best patronized establishments in the city. A room, 25x80 feet, is fully stocked with a line of the best groceries and provisions, and he operates a meat market in connection. Four sales peo¬ ple are employed to care for the extensive trade.

Mr. McCumber was married in 1894 to Minnie Ball, of Carrollton, Mo., a daughter of Thomas A. and Elizabeth (Gentry) Ball, the former living at Carrollton, and the latter of whom is deceased. Three children have been born to this marriage: Charles T., died at the age of four months; Harry, assisting his father in the store ; May and Arthur, at home.

The McCumber family reside at 600 South Liberty street. Independ¬ ence. Mr. McCumber is a member of the Loyal Order of Moose and the Modern Woodmen of America.