Johnson County, Missouri - - Biographical, 1918 (part 13 of 19)

Mrs. Mollie M. (Tyler) Hickman, the highly respected widow of the late William Logan Hickman, a prominent and esteemed merchant of Warernsburg, Missouri, was born in 1862 near Knob Noster. She is a member of one of Johnson county's best pioneer families, a daughter of James K. and Jane (Hocker) Tyler. James K. Tyler was born in Kentucky, whence his family moved to Indiana, and from that state to Missouri. Prior to the Civil War, Mr. Tyler was engaged in the . mercantile business at Knob Noster. He enlisted in the Confederate service under General Sterling Price and served throughout the war. After the struggle had closed, Mr. Tyler returned to Knob Noster, where he owned a splendid country place seven miles north of the city. The Tyler home was known as ''Summit Home" and was one of the finest and best-kept in this part of the state. Jane (Hocker) Tyler was a daughter of Larkin Hocker and wife. Mrs. Hocker's name before her marriage was Thornton. Mrs. James K. Tyler and Mrs. John E. Robinson were sisters. To James K. and Jane Tyler were born the following children : Mollie M., the widow of William Logan Hickman : Sterling P., Warrensburg township; Larkin M., who is employed in the United States railway mail service, Kansas City, Missouri: James S., a merchant at Volmer, Idaho; and Elmer H., a farmer. Cement, Oklahoma. The mother died in 1882 and interment was made in the Hocker cemetery. Mr. Tyler remarried in 1882. his second wife being Anna Cruce. To James K. and Anna (Cruce) Tyler was born one child. Edith, who is now the wife of Mr. Killebrew, a druggist of Kansas City, Missouri. Mr. Tyler was elected treasurer of Johnson county about 1880 and served two terms in that capacity. His death occurred in 1914 and his remains were interred in the cemetery at Warrensburg.

Mollie M. (Tyler) Hickman received her education in the schools of Camden Point and Warrensburg. January 29. 1882, she was united in marriage with William Logan Hickman. Mr. Hickman was born in Kentucky in 1857. He came to Warrensburg, Missouri with his parents, James and Eliza (Duncan) Hickman. James Hickman was a druggist in the old town and later resided on a farm near Warrensburg. He returned to Kentucky during the Civil ^^'ar and, while he was away, his drug store and everything in his home were destroyed. When he came back after the war had ended he found himself ruined financially. His death occurred at the age of forty years and burial was made in the cemetery at Warrensburg. In January, 1913, Mrs. Hickman followed her husband in death and she, too, was interred in the Warrensburg cemetery.

William Logan Hickman attended the city schools of Warrensburg. In early life, he began working for himself as clerk in the Gilkeson Drug Store. In 1883 he entered the grocery business, which he abandoned a few years later to engage in the clothing business. He was thus employed at the time of his death July 30, 19n. Mr. Hickman was an honest, honorable, and capable business man, one who has been sadly missed from the ranks of the best citizens of Warrensburg.

The following children were born to William Logan and Mollie M. Hickman: Jane Tyler, the wife of Charles Clay, who is employed in agricultural work for the government at Manilla, Philippine Islands. ami llicy arc tlie parents of one son, Cliarlcs Hickman: Elsie Lee, the wife of Christopher Johnson, who is the manager of the Hickman Mercantile Company, of Warrensburg. and they have one son, Christopher Lee, Jr.; Mary, the wife of Ernest Kenagy, of SedaHa, Missouri; Louise, who is a graduate of the Warrensburg State Normal School in the class of 1917; Mollie L. and Laura M., twins, deceased; and James L., who died in infancy. Mrs. Hickman has resided at her present home at 200 East Gay street since 1882.

Christopher Johnson, the efficient and enterprising manager of the Hickman Mercantile Company of Warrensburg, Missouri, was born in Jackson county, Missouri in 1884. He is the oldest of three children born to his parents, Isaiah a-nd Delia (Dudgeon) Johnson, the children being, as follow: Christopher; Mrs. Ottola Sullivan, Independence, Missouri; and Erse, who is in the employ of the Union Pacific Railway Company, with headquarters at Emporia, Kansas. Isaiah Johnson was born in 1859 in Jackson county, Missouri, a son of Samuel Johnson, an early settler of Buckner. Missouri, where his death occurred. Delia (Dudgeon) Johnson was born in Kentucky, a daughter of Dandridge and Susan Dudgeon, who were later pioneers of Ray county, Missouri.

Mr. Johnson, the subject of this review, was a student at Woodland College, Independence, Missouri, at the Warrensburg State Normal School, and at the School of Mines, Rolla, Missouri. After completing his education, Mr. Johnson was engaged in railroading in Oklahoma for the Santa Ee company for six months, for the Mexican Central in old Mexico for two years, employed in the engineering department, and then he was engaged in civil engineering in the LTnited States for three years. In the spring of 1909, he purchased an interest in the Hickman Mercantile Company of Warrensburg and when Mr. Hickman's death occurred eighteen months later, Christopher Johnson succeeded him as manager. The Hickman Mercantile Company have their place of business well located at 115 North Holden street, where they have one of the best and most up-to-date stores in the city. They handle men's and boys' furnishings, a complete line of Kuppenheimer clothes and Selz shoes. The store is exceedingly well kept, the stock being always fresh, clean, neatly and attractively displayed. Christopher Johnson deserves much credit and praise for his capable management of the company's business interests. He is a young man, energetic and enthusiastic, a "booster" for everything which will help the

In 1909, Christopher Johnson and Elsie Hickman were united in marriage. Elsie (Hickman) Johnson is a daughter of William Logan and Mollie M. (Tyler) Hickman. Mr. Hickman died July 30, 1911 and the widowed mother, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this volume, is now residing in Warrensburg. To Christopher and Elsie Johnson has been born one son, Christopher Lee, Jr. Mr. Johnson is a valued member of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, a member of the Blue Lodge of which he is High Priest, and of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.

Robert F. Boone, the efificient and well-known county assessor of Johnson county, Missouri, is a descendant of Squire Boone. He was born May 6, 1874 in Lafayette county, Missouri, son of George M. and Sallie J. (Boone) Boone. George M. Boone was born August 6, 1843 in Kentucky. He was a son of Samuel Boone, who was a descendant of Squire Boone, a brother of the celebrated Daniel. Samuel Boone's death occurred at Eldorado Springs but his home was in Lafayette county. His remains were interred in ^Mt. Taljor cemetery. George M. Boone lived in Lafayette county nearly sixty years. He and Sallie J. Boone were cousins. They were married August 16, 1870 and tu them were born the following children : Ira, who is farming on the home place; Robert F., the subject of this review; Mrs. Bettie McMullen, Holden, Missouri; Mrs. Lula Wilson, Centerview, Missouri: and Mrs. Anna Pace, Warrensburg, Missouri. George ]\I. Boone came with his father to Jackson county, Missouri when he, George M., was a child twelve years of age. In 1859 he moved to Lafayette county where he engaged in farming and stock raising. His death occurred April 22, 1917, on the home place. He was nearly seventy-four years of age. Both father and son, Samuel and George M. Boone, were veterans of the Confederate army. George M. Boone enlisted in Company G, Missouri Infantry and served more than three years. Four brothers of George M. also were in the Confederate service, as follow: ^Villiam, Fletcher, Manlius, and Robert . Mrs. Boone, the widow of George M., survives her husband and is now living on the home place in Lafayette county.

course preparatory to teaching. He later was in attendance at the State Normal during several different summer terms. Mr. Boone taught his first school in Newton county, Missouri in the fall of 1899. He taught four terms there and for twelve years was a teacher in the rural schools of Johnson county. Mr. Boone taught school in addition to farming. He owns an eighty acre farm in Simpson township which was his home until he was elected county assessor in the fall of 1916. He assumed the duties of his office June 1. 1917. He will have seven deputies to assist him with the work. J\lr. Boone was elected for a term of four years.

April 10, 1901, Robert F. Boone was united in marriage with Ada Caruthers, daughter of A\'. P. and Fannie (Meador) Caruthers, of Neosho, Missouri. Mr. and Mrs. Caruthers are still residing in Neosho, Missouri. To Robert F. and Ada Boone have been born the following children: Forest, Eula, Floyd, Lula Lee, Bennett, Gladys, Zelma, and Robert F., Jr. All the children, except the oldest, were born in Johnson county. The first child, Forest, was born in Newton county. Floyd is deceased. I\Ir. and ]\Irs. Boone are numljered among the best and most highly respected citizens of Johnson county.

C. H. Harrison, proprietor of the Harrison Book and Stationery Store in \\'arrensburg, IMissouri, is the veteran book dealer of A\'arrensburg. He is a member of a distinguished pioneer family of Johnson county, Missouri. He was born October 26, 1865 in Hazel Hill township, son of John Wesley and Eliza C. (Ovens) Harrison, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this volume.

Mr. Harrison, the subject of this review, received his education in the public schools of Warrensburg. After leaving school, he was employed for three and a half years by the Christopher Dry Goods Company, when they were located where the E. N. \\'arnick Hardware Company is now. July 7, 1885, Air. Harrison purchased the Brooks & Williams' stock of books and stationery, located at 115 Pine street where he has for the past thirty-two years continued the business. He has in the meantime added wallpaper to his stock. The store occupies a room 25 x 90 feet in dimensions and is attractive, neat, and well kept. Mr. Harrison carries school books and a large line of miscellaneous books.

were united in marriage. To C. H. and Pauline (Holliday) Harrison have been born two sons: C. Holliday Harrison, who married Rose Palmer, of Lexington, Missouri, and is associated in business with his father, C. H. Harrison; and Don, who is in the employ of the Clark Brothers' Shoe Company of Warrensburg, Missouri and resides at home with his parents. Mr. and Mrs. C. Holliday Harrison are the parents of one child, a daughter.

C. H. Harrison is a man of decided literary tastes. He is a constant reader and keen thinker and no one in Johnson county is better posted than he upon current events. Politically, Mr. Harrison is affiliated with the Socialist party. The first organization of the Socialist party in Warrensburg was made in 1900 and a county ticket was placed in the field at that time. The local organization existed twelve years and then was reorganized in 1912. C. H. Harrison was the Socialist candidate for Congress from the sixth congressional district in 1914. The sixth congressional district of Missouri had at that time about eight hundred dues-paying members of the Socialist organization. A thorough patriot, Mr. Harrison firmly believes that the present social conditions must and will be corrected only through education of the common people who comprise the vast majority of the population. Quiet and unassuming in demeanor, Mr. Harrison has made many friends in Johnson county and he ranks high among his business associates as an honest, honorable, conscientious man.

G. Allen Gilbert, who for the past twenty-eight years has been agent for the Standard Oil Company in Warrensburg, Missouri, was born at the home of his father, which was located at 222 East Gay street in Warrensburg, Missouri, the site of the present residence of Mr. Gilbert. He is a son of George M. and Mary Eliza (Allen) Gilbert, natives of New York. George M. Gilbert was born in New York in 1829. Mary Eliza (Allen) Gilbert was born in August, 1838 in New York. They came to Missouri in 1865 and located in Warrensburg, where George M. Gilbert entered the grocery business, opening a store on South Holden street. He continued in business at that location for some time, when the store was burned. Mr. Gilbert then moved to a new location on North Holden street and opened another grocery store. In 1889 he and his son, G. Allen, purchased the business in Warrensburg of B. Harris & Company. They did an extensive business in hides, pelts, furs, scrap iron, and metal. The son, G. Allen, tlie subject of this review, traveled for many years and bought from Other dealers. George M. Gilbert died in August, 1915 at the age of eighty-six years. His wife had preceded him in death five years, her death occurring at the age of seventy-one years. Both parents were buried in the cemetery at Warrensburg.

G. Allen Gilbert attended the public schools of Warrensburg, Missouri and the Warrensburg State Normal School. At the age of sixteen years, he was employed by B. Harris & Company and when eighteen years of age was associated in business with his father. Mr. Gilbert has been in business at his present location for the past fifteen years. His office formerly was on Railroad street but has been recently moved to the other end of the lot, which is 50 x 133 feet in dimensions, and now faces East Pine street. Prior to the breaking out of the present world war. Mr. Gilbert shipped many furs to the London market. He is now doing a large business, buying and shipping pelts, hides, scrap iron, wool, and salt. For nearly thirty years, Mr. Gilbert has been agent for the Standard Oil Company at Warrensburg, Missouri, operating the distributing station at this place. Oil is furnished Knob Noster, Centerview, Fayetteville, Cornelia, Columbus and all the surrounding towns. Mr. Gilbert not only has many friends, but is one of the successful business men of the county.

In 1909, G. Allen Gilbert was united in marriage wnth Frances M. Glenn, daughter of Charles F. and Mary Elizabeth (Reed) Glenn, of Jefferson City, Missouri. Mrs. Gilbert's father died May 18, 1917 in Jefiferson City. To G. Allen and Frances M. (Glenn) Gilbert has been born one child, a son, Charles Allen. Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert are numbered among the county's most respected and substantial citizens.

Lonna Louis DesCombes, a progressive, young business man of Warrensburg, Missouri, one of the owners of "The Auto Shop," is a representative of the fourth generation of the DesCombes family in Johnson county, Missouri. Mr. DesCombes was born in Henr}' county, Missouri in 1889, son of John Louis and Nora (Elliott) DesCombes, the former, a native of Johnson county, Missouri and the latter, of Henry county, Missouri. John L. DesCombes was born in Johnson county on a farm near Leeton. He is a son of Thomas Louis Des- Combes, a native of Johnson county, who was born near Leeton. The father of Thomas L. DesCombes. Charles Louis DesCombes, was of French descent. Charles Louis DesCombes emigrated from Switzer- land to America and came to Missouri, where he settled on a farm in Johnson county near Leeton. His son, Thomas Louis at Leeton, and grandson, John Louis at Warrensburg, still live in Johnson county. John Louis and Nora (Elliott) DesCombes are the parents of ten children: Lonna Louis, the subject of this review; Lloyd E., who is employed as machinist in an automobile factory in Springfield, Ohio ; Virginia C, who is the wife of T. E. Thompson, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Russell D.. a machinist employed in an automobile factory in Springfield, Ohio; Donald R. and Doris M.. twins, Warrensburg, Missouri; Arlie I., Warrensburg, Missouri; Eugene, Warrensburg, Missouri ; Ruby Ella and Ruth Anna, twins, who are at home with their parents. One child, John Herbert, died in early childhood.

Lonna Louis DesCombes attended the public schools of Windsor, Missouri, the Warrensburg State Normal School, and the University of Wisconsin. For four years, Mr. DesCombes was a professor in the Industrial Arts department of the Warrensburg State Normal School, resigning this position March 1, 1917 and entering the automobile business in Warrensburg. He opened "The Auto Shop" March 1, 1917 in partnership with A. H. Gilkeson at 122 West Pine street. Mr. Gilkeson is assistant cashier of the Commercial Bank of Warrensburg and Mr. DesCombes has complete charge of the shop. Their specialties are Overland and Dort cars, Goodrich tires, and expert auto repairing. They carry a complete line of auto accessories and storage batteries and are one of the best and most progressive firms in the city. Both young men are capable, alert, and industrious, in a word - "hustlers." They have enjoyed a large patronage from the very start and there is no reason why they should not make a splendid success.

May 29, 1917, Lonna Louis DesCombes was united in marriage with Kathryne Gallaher, daughter of John A. and Pauline (Gillum) Gallaher, of Warrensburg, Missouri. John A. Gallaher. who served with distinction as State Geologist of Missouri and was widely known also as a mining expert, was born in Monroe county. Tennessee. His parents were James A. and Mary Weir Gallaher. and the father, who was a native of Virginia, was reared in Tennessee. Both came of colonial families and Mrs. Gallaher was descended from the Lyle family which settled in Virginia in 1740. John A. Gallaher served through the Civil War in the Confederate army and bore the scars of wounds received in action. He at one time owned tlie site of Montserrat and the town was first named Gallaher in his honor. He was a student and scientist, a lecturer of note, and contributed numerous important papers to leading scientific and class journals. He was the author of the "Geology of Missouri" and a work entitled "Cosmic Philosophy." Pauline (Gillum) Gallaher is a native of Johnson county, a member of a prominent and distinguished pioneer family. Mrs. Gallaher is still living at 214 Broad street in Warrensburg. Mr. and Mrs. DesCombes reside in Warrensburg at 214 Broad street. Mr. DesCombes is a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of Warrensburg.

K. G. Tempel, superintendent of the County Home of Johnson county, Missouri, was born in Germany in 1857. He emigrated from his native land in 1881 and came to America and to Warrensburg, Missouri, February 15. 1886. He is a son of Christian F. and Anna Christina Tempel, who were the parents of twelve children, six sons and six daughters.

K. Gottlieb Tempel was educated in the schools of Germany. In April, 1881, he came to America and located in Missouri for a short time and then moved to Kansas on a farm near Fort Scott, where he remained several years, when he returned to Missouri and settled in Johnson county. Mr. Tempel arrived in Warrensburg, February 15, 1886 and this city has been his home ever since that time. For many years, he was employed in the stone quarries. Mr. Tempel served two terms as city marshal of A\^arrensburg and one term as deputy sheriff, being appointed to the latter position by James A. Koch. After his time as a public official had expired, the Tempel family moved to the farm twelve miles south of Warrensburg, a place of forty acres, which Mr. Tempel later sold and purchased two hundred forty acres of fine farm land seven miles northeast of \'\'arrensburg. This is one of the best farms in Johnson county, being well improved and located.

September 6, 1884. K. G. Tempel and Elizabeth Myers, of St. Joseph, Missouri, were united in marriage and to them were born two children, one son and one daughter: Herman, who resides on the home farm in Montserrat township; and Emma, the wife of C. M. Pfeft"er, of Montserrat township. Elizabeth (Myers) Tempel died April 1, 1892. October 13, 1892, K. G. Tempel was married to Anna Katherine Hunker, daughter of George and Ursula Hunker, both of whom were natives of German3^ Mrs. Tempel was born in Leidringeii. Germany. Her father died in the fatherland and when she was twenty years of age, she and her mother emigrated from Germany and came to America, locating in Hepler, Kansas. The mother died in Crawford county, Kansas near Hepler and interment was made in the cemetery there. To K. G. and Anna Katherine Tempel have been born three children: Frieda, Katherine, and Albert. All the children are at home with their parents.

The county court of Johnson county appointed K. Gottlieb Tempel superintendent of the County Home and granted him the lease of the farm March 1, 1909 and at intervals of two years since that time has renewed the contract, by which Mr. Tempel agrees to provide food and care for the inmates of the County Home in return for the use of the farm, the county furnishing clothing, bedding, light, and fuel. As a general rule, the lease system has nothing to recommend its adoption, not even economy, but with Mr. Tempel in charge, this institution is one of the rare exceptions. The farm consists of eighty-four acres of land, valued at eighty-four hundred dollars and with the improvements the County Home is valued at the lowest estimate forty thousand dollars. Ten acres of the farm are in oats, ten acres in corn, and the balance in pasture. At the time of this writing, there are twenty-five inmates in the County Home, nineteen of whom are white and six colored people. The Home is supplied with city water, electric lights, and steam heat. There are thirty-five rooms in the building, four bathrooms, and a chapel, containing an organ, and a library. The library was presented by Mr. Young, of Chilhowee, Missouri, for the benefit and pleasure of those inmates, who enjoyed reading. The men and the women, the white and the black people, are separated. The men occupy the west side and the women the east side of the Home and each inmate has a separate room. They do not even meet at the dining table, but dine separately.

The Tenth Biennial Report of the State Board of Charities and Corrections of Missouri makes the following concise statement of the conditions found at the County Home of Johnson County under the management of K. G. Tempel, February 28, 1916:

"Building. A large two-story, brick, well planned and beautifully located. Only a short distance from town. Modern in all respects. Institution has library for those who care to read.

Mrs. Tempel deserves much praise and commendation for she certainly is doing her part exceedingly well in keeping the County Home clean, neat, and comfortable. All the inmates are well cared for and the food is always good, clean, properly cooked, and nicely served. Mrs. Temple was well trained in the art of domestic science in her mother's home and no graduate of a course in domestic art can surpass her in skill or knowledge of the best management of household duties. She is a most intelligent, industrious, conscientious lady, an ideal woman for the position she fills. The men and women in the County Home are indeed fortunate.

Mrs. Fanita (Baldwin) Houts, the esteemed and highly respected widow of the late O. L. Houts, a prominent attorney of Warrensburg, one of the most able memljers of the bar in this section of Missouri, is a member of one of the best and most intellectual families that came to Missouri. She was born in Warrensburg, ^Missouri, daughter of Roderick and Elbertine (Tabor) Baldwin, the former, a native of Delaware county. New York and the latter, of Wilson, in Niagara county, New York.

Roderick Baldwin the father of ]\Irs. Fanita Houts, was a graduate of Hamilton College, New York. He enlisted in the Civil War, in Niagara county, serving in Company E, Third New York Heavy Artillery, of which company he was captain. This company afterward became Company E. One Hundred Thirty-first Light Infantry, a part of the Army of the Potomac. Mr. Baldwin was wounded three times in skirmishes. He was first wounded J"ne 16, 1864 in a conflict at Petersburg, Virginia, the wound being inflicted by a piece of shell which struck him in the side. June 21. 1864, he was injured seriously by a minnie ball, in a struggle south of Petersburg, but he did not leave the field. In the same engagement, he was wounded the third time, the last injury being a dangerous wound in the side, and he was carried from the battlefield. It was at Petersburg that General Grant wasted ten thousand lives in trying to carry it by assault, and then settled down to siege operations and on July 30 a great mine was sprung under the Confederate works, for a moment an open road into the rear of their position, when the Confederates, rallying, were able to drive back with great slaughter the assaulting column and the bloody affair of "The Crater" cost Grant four thousand lives without any compensating advantage. Wounded dangerously as he was, Roderick

Baldwin was one of the favored and fortunate few, who came through this campaign. For several months, Mr. Baldwin was confined in the hospital at Washington, D. C. He afterward served as a member of the staff of General W. ^^^ Morris, holding the position of judge advocate in the Army of the Potomac. In January, 1865, Roderick Baldwin was appointed to the position of clerk in the office of the War Department of the United States, which position he filled until April, 1867. Though physically still very weak, Captain Baldwin was able to ride at the head of his company when the troops passed in review at Washington. May 23 and 24, 1865.

In 1869, Roderick Baldwin was united in marriage with Elbertine Tabor in the state of New York. To them were born two children: Mark, who is now a prosperous ranchman in western Kansas ; and Fanita, who is the subject of this review. Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin came from New York to Warrensburg, where he purchased a tract of land in Johnson county. For several years, Roderick Baldwin was the prosecuting attorney of Johnson county. He served two terms as mayor of Warrensburg and for seven years was a member of the Warrensburg school board. In 1870, Mr. Baldwin became editor and proprietor of the "Warrensburg Standard," which paper afterward became known as the "Standard-Herald." He was the owner and publisher of the "Warrensburg Standard" at the time of his death September 23, 1894. Roderick Baldwin was one of Johnson count3''s leading citizens and influential men of public affairs. He was a member of the Republican State Executive Committee for many years and was at one time a candidate on the Republican ticket for the office of state superintendent of public instruction. He gave his active and most earnest support to the Warrensburg State Normal School, in which he was keenly interested. Mr. Baldwin planned and built the Marcus Youngs place, which is now owned by Clinton J. Rucker, a sketch of whom is found elsewhere in this volume containing a brief description of the beautiful suburban home. The handsome residence was located on a small tract of land, of twenty acres adjoining Warrensburg on the north, and the land was laid out as a park. This is undoubtedly one of the most elegant homes in Johnson county and the taste shown in achieving the lovely landscape can not be excelled. Mrs. Roderick Baldwin died in 1907.

For eleven years prior to her marriage, she was engaged in teaching school, ten years in the city schools of Warrensburg and one year in the city schools of Kansas City, Missouri.

In 1904, O. L. Houts and Fanita Baldwin were united in marriage. O. L. Houts was born and reared in W'arrensburg. He was a son of George Wilson and Elizabeth (Cooper) Houts, both of whom are now deceased. They were pioneers of Johnson county, owning a splendid farm of choice land, in this county, which the father had entered from the government. Mr. and Mrs. Houts were highly valued and respected citizens of this community, long considered one of Missouri's best families. The son, O. L.. received his early education in the city schools of A\'arrensburg and was an alumnus of the State University at Columbia, Missouri, and of Ann Arbor University in ^Michigan. He was a gifted attorney, possessing a well-trained legal mind and keen insight. He was ranked very high among the most able lawyers of !^Iissouri. Mr. Houts was always intensely interested in politics and at one time was a member of the Republican State Executive Committee. He was married in 1883 to Efifie Afton Hale, daughter of Henry C. and Tacy (Bunn) Hale. She was a woman of unusual intellectual attainments and rare personal charm. Her death occurred in 1897. She left one child, a son, Hale who is now practicing law in Kansas City. ]Mr. Houts' death on April 2, 1912 was deeply and widely lamented in this section of the state, where he was ever held in the highest esteem. Besides his widow. O. L. Houts left two young sons. Roderick Lee and Wilson . The mother and her two boys reside in Warrensburg at 305 South Holden street.

John L. DesCombes, engineer and superintendent of the buildings and grounds of the A\'arrensburg State Normal School, was born in 1867 in Post Oak township, Johnson county, Missouri. He is a son of Thomas L. DesCombes, the oldest child born to his parents, Charles L. and Martha (Wash) DesCombes. a native of St. Louis county, Missouri, and Sallie V. (Bell) DesCombes. a native of Cooper county, Missouri. Charles L. DesComl)es was born January 6, 1806, in the canton of Neuchatel. Switzerland. He was of French lineage, son of David L. DesCombes, who emigrated from Switzerland and came to America, and he with his family settled in St. Louis county, [Missouri. The death of David L. DesCombes occurred in St. Louis county.

which they came to America passed the shores of Greenland, through the Hudson Bay, and anchored at the mouth of the Nelson river. They had been three months on the ocean voyage. In Canada, the settlers landed and the family of David L. DesCombes followed the river until they arrived at Winnipeg and from that place went on up the Red river of the North to the wilderness of northern Minnesota. Slowly and patiently they had worked their way against the current of streams, across lakes, and over portages, when they were obliged to pull their boat across a "carry." Trials and difficulties grew thick about them. In the dense forest, they had reached the next body of water, but had not accomplished their full purpose, when they decided to remain where they were for three months and for two bitterly cold winters and one summer the DesCombes family merely existed. From the savages, dried buffalo meat was procured and in the winter time fish were obtained from the river after the ice was cut to a depth of from six to eight feet. Wild herbs were found in abundance in the summer. Discontented, they determined to risk the journey farther into the country in the hope of bettering their now destitute condition. Brave, undaunted, hopeful, David Des- Combes started with his family again in 1823 upon the dangerous way through the forest, traveling often by land and seldom by water, when they reached St. Peter's river, where the father built a canoe from a large tree, which he cut'down, and in this frail bark they at last arrived, tired, desolate, and in a starving condition, at Fort Snelling. A loaf of bread was given young Charles and at the sight of the food he clapped his hands with delight and cried happily, "Thank the Lord! Here is bread once more!"

After remaining at the fort until they had fully recuperated, the DesCombes family came to St. Louis county, Missouri, where the}' settled. April 6, 1837, Charles L. DesCombes was united in marriage witii Martha Wash and to them were born the following children : Thomas L., who was reared to maturity in St. Louis county and was married to Sallie V. Bell and to them was born John L., the subject of this review; Mary L. ; Adelia A. ; Charles E., who enlisted in the Civil War and served in the Confederate army under General Francis M. Cockrell; William F., Virginia E. ; Rachel R. ; Martha Day : John N. : Susan Rand ; and Eugene. Charles L. DesCombes was a devout nieml)er of the Presbyterian church, becoming a member in Switzerland, and always remained true to his belief. Martha (Wash) DesCombes iiad lieen reared in a household that firmly stood for the belief of the Methodist Episcopal church, South, of which she became a member in Virginia in 1832. In 1850, Mr. DesCombes made an overland trip to California. This was the time of the excitement over the discovery of gold in the millrace on Captain Sutter's land about one hundred miles northeast of San Francisco, when people rushed to the gold region from all settled parts of the United States, when farmers, carpenters, storekeepers, professional men left their work to seek the golden treasure. The difficulties and dangers in crossing the plains and the desert region were many and the bones of human beings, horses, oxen, were strewn along the entire route. Charles L. DesCombes reached his journey's end safely and after a short time spent in California returned home by way of the Isthmus of Panama and New York City. In 1856, he moved with his family to Post Oak township in Johnson county, where he owned five hundred acres of land. On this farm, both he and his estimable wife died. Mr. and Mrs. Charles L. DesCombes were honest, industrious, highly esteemed citizens, pioneers worthy of the greatest honor and respect.

Thomas L. DesCombes. who at the present time is residing in Leeton, Missouri, and Sallie V. (Bell) DesCombes were the parents of the following children: John L., the subject of this review; Mrs. Annie E. Holt, of Warrensburg, Missouri; Mrs. Mary Ellen Swigert, of Leeton, Missouri; William T.. who resides in Leeton, Missouri; Henry C, of Warrensburg, Missouri ; Eugene F., Leeton. Missouri ; and Mrs. Sallie E. Katherman, Warrensburg, Missouri.

In the district schools of Johnson county, John L. DesCombes received his education. His boyhood days were spent as are the days of the average lad on the farm. z\t the age of twenty years, he learned the blacksmith's trade, working as an apprentice with Ellert & Clark, of Shawnee Mound in Henry county, Missouri. Until 1898, John L. DesCombes was engaged in blacksmithing. At that time he began to study the machinist's trade and from 1901 until 1907 was employed by the Bowen Coal Company of Windsor, Missouri, as master mechanic. Mr. DesCombes moved from Windsor to Warrensburg in 1909 and for several vears conducted a machine shop in this city until 1915 he was appointed engineer and superintendent of the buildings and grounds of the Warrensburg State Normal School, a position which he is filling at the time of this writing, in 1917. His work requires that he attend to the needs of the buildings of the normal school, to the heating, lighting, cleaning, and to care for the grounds. Mr. DesCombes is "on the job" every day in the year - and many of the nights. He is an excellent, careful conscientious workman and a mechanic of marked ability.

September 5, 1888, John L. DesCombes was united in marriage with Nora Elliott, daughter of Samuel H. and Carrie Y. Elliott, both deceased. Mrs. DesCombes was born in Calhoun, Henry county, Missouri. To John L. and Nora (Elliott) DesCombes have been born ten children, who are now living, and one, who died in infancy. Lonna L., the proprietor of "The Auto Shop" of Warrensburg, Missouri, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this volume; Lloyd E., Springfield, Ohio; Mrs. Virginia C. Thompson, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Russell D., Springfield, Ohio; John Herbert, who died at the age of two years; Donald Ray and Doris May, twins, at home with their parents; Arlie Ines, at home ; Eugene George, at home ; Ruth and Ruby, twins, at home.

John M. Garvey, a prosperous and prominent farmer and stockman of Warrensburg township, has had one of the most remarkable and noteworthy careers of any man in Johnson county. He was born January 4, 1858, in Iowa, son of Charles Thomas and Sarah (Mark) Garvey. Charles Thomas Garvey was born in North Carolina. In early manhood, he went to Iowa and from that state came with his wife and children to Missouri in 1877 and after a very short time in this state, moved on to Kansas, returning to Missouri in 1878 and settling at Shawnee Mound in Henry county where his death occurred several years later. Sarah (Mark) Garvey died at Louisburg, Kansas. Both father and mother were interred in the cemetery at Leeton, Missouri. Nine children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Charles Thomas Garvey, of whom John M., the subject of this review was the first born, the children being as follow: John M.. the subject of this sketch: Charles Franklin, deceased ; Flint Roy, of Seattle, Washington ; Mrs. Ellen Jane Ritter, who resides in Oklahoma; Thomas, deceased; James, deceased; William Wilbur, of Chilhowee, Missouri ; George Frederick, who resides in Louisburg, Kansas. Another child was born and died in infancy.

At Ashland, Iowa, John M. Garvey received his education. He began life for himself at the age of nineteen years and did much to assist his parents after he had left home. He came to Johnson county, Missouri, with his parents. September 24, 1877. moving from the house where he-was born.

He first lived at Shawnee Mound, and then a little while in Kansas, and returned to Johnson county in October, 1878. He went to his uncle. John Garvey, and chopped wood, attended to chores, and to the stock that winter for his board. After that, he helped Thomas DesCombes dig a well, and he bruised his hand so badly it was a long time getting well. Doctor Ward attended to it and Air. Garvey at first did not have even the money to pay the fee of one dollar, but afterward went to work and paid it. He worked for J. W. Brooks and at odd jobs until October 11, 1880, when he went to work for W. P. Millner, receiving fifteen dollars a month. He worked for Mr. Millner exactly eight years, until October 11, 1888. On October 13, 1888. he moved to the farm of H. C. Hale and has been there ever since.

February 17. 1883, he was married to Rebecca Dillsaver, of Allen county, Ohio. Mrs. Garvey is a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Dillsaver, both of whom are now deceased. Mrs. Garvey has helped make and save every dollar they could. Mr. Garvey has chopped many a load of wood by moonlight and then hauled it to the woodpile the next night. There he would chop it, and his wife would carry it onto the porch. At other times, after his day's work was done, he would go horseback several miles to the little mill run by James Elder on Tebo creek for a sack of meal, get back at eleven o'clock at night, and l^e ready for work the next day.

One peculiarity of Mr. Garvey's is that he likes to make things come out even. He used to keep a diary and knows exact dates. He worked even eight years for Mr. Millner. Once, he received a due bill from John Lee for a bucket of eggs. The next time he went in with another bucket of eggs he asked for a sack of flour and handed in the first bill. The eggs and the bill together just paid for the sack of flour, and Mr. Lee remarked that he must have had it all figured out before he left home.

Mr. Garvey saved and bought his first land, thirty-nine acres, on February 24, 1888, while still working for Mr. Millner. Since then he sold the thirty-nine acres and bought the Daly place of ninety-five acres, bought one hundred seventeen acres more, then forty acres more, and, on March 1, 1914, bought thirty-seven acres more. This makes two hundred eighty-nine acres of good land that Mr. Garvey has bought and all the time he has worked for other men. He also built a barn, 41 X 49, in 1906, and, in 1917, is building an attractive bungalow, and

October 13, 1918, Mr. Garvey will have worked and lived on Air. Hale's place for thirty years. On his own farm, he gives special attention to stock raising, has his whole farm in grass and keeps forty to sixty cattle on hand. His farm is named "Bear Creek Valley Stock Farm" and was so registered February 8, 1908.

To John M. and Rebecca Garvey have been born four children: Bertha May, the wife of Frank Taylor, of near Holden, Missouri ; Carrie Ellen, the wife of James Adam Fickas, one of the rural mail carriers, of Warrensburg, Missouri; Clarence Clayton, who married Lillian Meredith and resides near Warrensburg, Missouri ; and Erma Mable, who is at home with her parents.

Without one dollar, John M. Garvey began life in Missouri. He not only by hard labor maintained himself but assisted his parents also and paid all their funeral expenses. Today, he has the satisfaction of having worked all his life and prospered, and being still able bodied and vigorous.

Peter Howell Gulp was born in 1857 in Gentry county, Missouri, son of Johnson and Luvina (Cate) Gulp who were the parents of eight children, only two of whom are now living: Peter Howell, of this review; and John P. Gulp, Cement, Oklahoma. Johnson Gulp was born in Randolph county and when seventeen years old moved to Gentry county, Missouri. He was a son of Peter Gulp, St., a native of South Carolina, who came to Missouri in a very early day, probably sometime in the tw^enties or thirties, when the Indians occupied the country. He lived to a noble, old age and died in Gentry county. The parents of Luvina (Cate) Gulp were originally from Tennessee. They settled in pioneer days in Clay county, Missouri, and when she was a small child moved to Gentry county and there she was reared, educated, and married. Johnson Gulp's death occurred in 1902 in Gentry county and Peter Howell Gulp, with the widowed mother, moved to Johnson county on a farm in Hazel Hill township, where the mother died in June, 1904. Interment was made in Gentry county by the side of her husband. Johnson Gulp was a man worthy of the highest honor and respect. He endured bravely and cheerfully countless hardships incidental to the Civil War and nobly cared for his widowed mother and provided for all his family. Two of his wife's brothers served in the Union army and one was killed in a skirmish near Lonejack. He was buried at Holden, Missouri.

After receiving- a good common school education in the pubhc schools of Gentry county, Peter Howell Gulp engaged in farming. Until he was twenty-two years of age. he remained with his parents and since that time has been farming for himself, wiht the exception of two years, when he was engaged in the livery business. In 1902. he- purchased his present country home from Theodore Stockton. A part of this farm, which comprises three hundred twenty acres of land, was entered by the Stocktons from the government. There are two sets of improvements upon the farm. The splendid silo, of which Air. Gulp may well be proud, was erected by him in 1914. He. with the assistance of his two sons, Gharles E. and John F.. is developing the place into a dairy farm and they now have sixty head of cattle antl are milking twenty-eight cows at the time of this writing, in 1917, and will soon increase to thirty. Milk from the Gulp dairy is delivered twice daily in Warrensburg. Mr. Gulp is also engaged in general farming and fifty acres of the place are in corn, seventy-five acres in hav. and the balance in pasture.

In 1877. Peter Howell Gulp and Alargaret X. Branham. of Gentry county, were united in marriage. Mrs. Gulp is a daughter of Jonathan Branham, a native of Indiana, who moved to Gentrj^ countv. Missouri, in a very early day. Alargaret N. (Branham) Gulp was born in Gentry county, Missouri. To Mr. and Mrs. Gulp have been born four sons: James, who died when eleven years old; Gharles E.. who is associated with his father in the dairy business on the home farm : Harry J., a farmer and stockman residing near Greendoor. Missouri ; and John P., on the home place with his parents. All the Gulp family are interested in the success of their dairy and are doing everything in their power to make and keep it strictly sanitary and up to date. Mr. and Airs. Gulp are highly respected and esteemed in their community and they are enrolled among the county's most valued citizens.

Isaiah Jacoby, proprietor of "Maple Grove Farm." the first registered farm in Johnson county. Missouri, was born in Alarshall county. Indiana. July 22, 1855. He is a son of Elias and Margaret (Schaaf) Jacoby, the former a native of Pennsylvania, and the latter of Germany. Elias Jacobv was born October 8. 1815, at Schuylkill, Schuylkill county. Pennsylvania, and Margaret (Schaaf) Jacoby was born January 9, 1819.

To Mr. and Mrs. Jacoby were born twelve children: Samuel, who was born in Ohio and was killed at the battle of Corinth, Mississippi, on October 4, 1862, while serving in the Union army; John E., born July 1, 1839 in Ohio, a Civil War veteran, now residing in Columbus township, Johnson county; Elias, born in Ohio, February 24, 1841, and in childhood was killed July 1, 1851, by the fall of a tree, in Marshall county, Indiana; Mrs. Mary Ann Stump, born December 6, 1842. and now resides in Columbus township, Johnson county; David, born November 22, 1844, in Ohio and died March 18, 1917, in Lane county, Oregon; Mrs. Catharine Grimm, born December 11. 1846. in Ohio, and died November 12, 1870; Mrs. Margaret Bondurant, born February 19, 1849, in Marshall county, Indiana, where she is now residing; Levi, born March 16. 1851, in Indiana and now resides in Columbus township, Johnson county, Missouri; Mrs. Eliza Jane Summers, born April 25, 1853, in Indiana and now resides in Hazel Hill township, Johnson county; Isaiah, the subject of this review; Mrs. Annette Eve Knaus, born April 3, 1859, in Marshall county, Indiana, and is now residing in Knob Noster, Missouri ; and William Daniel, born April 9. 1864. in Marshall county. Indiana, and now resides in Holden. Missouri. The father's death occurred July 20, 1877, and the mother's on September 26. 1910. Mr. and Mrs. Jacoby were candid, upright, noble-minded citizens, who were unyielding in their condemnation of wrong doing, yet always charitable and kind to e\'ery one with whom they came in contact.

Elias Jacoby came to Johnson county, Missouri, in February. 1872, and settled on a farm of one hundred seventy acres of land in Columbus township, a place which he purchased from Abraham Winn. Mr. Jacoby lived but a very short time to enjoy his new home in the \\'est. his death occurring five years after he came to Johnson county. Mrs. Jacoby made her home on this farm the remainder of her life and since her death, which came in 1910. tiie grandson. Lyle C, son of Isaiah Jacoby, purchased this farm in 1913 and now resides there.

Isaiah Jacoby attended the public schools of Indiana and Missouri. After receiving a good common school education, he began farming. Mr. Jacoby has made his own way since he was twenty-one years of age. In May. 1880. he purchased his first land, a tract of sixty acres. which he later sold and purchased his present home. He acquired his farm, now comprising one hundred eighty-five acres, by purchasing separate tracts at three different times. The original tract emiiraced one hundred twenty acres of land, which had been entered from the government by Mr. Adams and afterward became the Middleton homestead, and to this Mr. Jacoby has since added until "Maple Grove Farm" now consists of one hundred eighty-five acres of splendid farm land in Hazel Hill township. In August, 1883, Mr. Jacoby moved to this farm, upon which he has ever since resided. Ten years ago, he became interested in the Black Aberdeen Angus cattle and has annually raised a large number of this breed since, having at the time of this writing, in 1917, ten pure-bred and twenty-five good grade cows, with a registered male at the head of the herd. Mr. Jacoby usually keeps about fifty head of cattle on the farm. Eighty acres of the place are in pasture, forty acres in meadow, and the balance in corn and small grain. "Maple Grove Farm" is exceptionally well improved and equipped for handling stock. The residence, a structure of seven rooms, is modern throughout. It was built in 1906. There are two large, well-constructed barns on the place. Mrs. Jacoby has charge of the poultry and she is making a splendid success of raising White Wyandotte chickens and White Holland turkeys. Pehaps no other farm in Hazel Hill township has so many beautiful maple trees growing on it as has the Jacoby farm. The seed was planted many years ago by James Middleton.

September 15, 1880, Isaiah Jacoby and Ada Ellen Middleton were united in marriage. Mrs. Jacoby is a daughter of James and Jane Ann (Parsons) Middleton, the former, born May 11, 1825, in England, from which country he emigrated when he was twenty-four years of age and came to the United States, settling in Ohio, where he was married, and the latter, a native of Ohio. Mrs. Middleton was born June 5, 1833. James and Jane Middleton were the parents of the following children: William Arthur, Warrensburg, Missouri ; George Albert, Columbus township, Johnson county; Mary J., who died in infancy; Ada E., the wife of Mr. Jacoby, the subject of this review; Charlie J., deceased; Alfred Grant, Centerview, Missouri; and Walter Eugene, who died in infancy. To Isaiah and Ada Ellen Jacoby have been born four children: Earle M. and Pearle M.. twins. Earle M.. died at birth, and Pearle M. is now the wife of Irwin K. Ramsey, of Columbus township; Lyle C, who married Vera Fay Henry and now resides on the Jacoby homestead in Columbus township; and Charlie Isaiah, who married Artie May Ogden and now resides on a farm in Columbus township. Mrs. Jacobv's father died September 1, 1877, and her mother died November

6, 1908. Mr. and Mrs. Jacoby are worthy and valued members of the Presbyterian church, as are all their children. This family has done much to further the cause of Christianity in their community.

Jacoby Chapel, which is located on the Jacoby homestead, was named in honor of Elias Jacoby, who donated the land for the church site and the cemetery in 1872. The first burial made in the cemetery was made July 4, 1872, for Jeremiah Waldon. In 1906, Mr. and Mrs. Jacoby began a campaign for the purpose of raising funds with which to erect a church. They began soliciting in March and in two days one thousand dollars were subscribed. The church building was completed in the autumn of 1906 at a cost of nearly two thousand dollars, which were paid at the time of dedication without any aid whatsoever from any outside church or community. Reverend Burchfield, of Harrisonville, delivered the dedicatory sermon. The church site and the adjoining cemetery comprise two and one-fourth acres of land. Great praise and honor are due the Jacobs who have always stood for the best and highest in the moral and social life of Johnson county. "Sir. and Mrs. Isaiah Jacoby are numbered among the county's most noble and estimable citizens.

R. L. Brown, a progressive agriculturist of Hazel Hill township, is a member of a prominent pioneer family of Johnson county. He was born in Hazel Hill township in 1870, a son of W. H. H. and Emma (Cleveland) Brown, the former, a native of Hazel Hill township and the latter, of Kentucky. W. H. H. Brown was born in 1841, a son of Simpson Brown, who came from Kentucky to Missouri in the thirties and entered land and purchased tracts until he was at one time owner of more than a thousand acres located in one of the best farming districts of this state. The present John Gilkeson farm was a part of his farm, where Simpson Brown spent the remainder of his life, his deatli occurring in the eighties. Burial was made in Oak Grove cemetery. When Emma (Cleveland) Brown was five years of age, she came to Missouri with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Cleveland, who entered the farm in Hazel Hill township, now known as the Robert White place. They are both now deceased and their remains lie in Liberty cemetery. To W. H. H. Brown and Emma (Cleveland) Brown were born eight children: Mrs. Fannie Shackleford, Warrensburg, Missouri; Mrs. Ida May Bowen, Kansas City, Missouri; Mrs. J. A. Hawley. Big Springs, Te.xas. the wife of one of the leading bankers of that city; James Will- iam, Kit Carson, Colorado; Rufus L., the subject of this review; T. S., Warrensburg township, Johnson county; J. C, Tacoma, Washington; and F. C, Los Angeles. California. Both parents are now living. their home being at present in Los Angeles, California.

Rufus L. Brown obtained a good education in the public schools of Hazel Hill township and at the age of twenty-three years began life for himself farming in Illinois. For ten years, Mr. Brown was a resident of that state, when he returned to Johnson county, Missouri and puchased the Cleveland farm of two hundred acres, on which he lived ten years. He then moved to Kansas City, Missouri, where he resided five months, returning to \\'arrensburg and purchasing eighty acres of land in Hazel Hill township. For eight years, Mr. Brown lived in Warrensburg, where he was engaged in buying and shipping stock. In 1917, he traded his city residence and the eighty-acre tract for his present home, a place comprising one hundred forty acres of splendid farm land, known as the Bedo D3'er farm. Since he moved to this home, Mr. Brown has installed an acetylene plant, for lighting purposes, and will soon begin work remodeling the residence, making it modern throughout. There is a large, well-built barn on the place and the site of the farm buildings and residence could not have been better chosen, as it is the highest point on the north and south road from Fayetteville to Higginsville.

Rufus L. Brown was first married in Illinois to Abbie Cobb. Mrs. Brown died in January, 1910, leaving one daughter, Mida June. In 1911 Mr. Brown and Edith Roach, daughter of John Roach, of Hazel Hill township, were united in marriage. Mr. Roach is now deceased and the widowed mother resides in Warrensburg. To Rufus L. and Edith (Roach) Brown has been born one child: R. L., Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Brown are valued highly among the best citizens of Hazel Hill township. Mr. Brown is a worker and his pretty country home, with its well-kept lawn and neat surroundings, bespeaks the thoughtful care and attention of an intelligent, capable farmer.

Alex J. Dyer, a well-known and popular young farmer and stockman, proprietor of "Elm Grove Stock Farm." is a member of one of the best and most prominent pioneer families of Johnson county. He was born in 1873 in Hazel Hill township, son of James D. and Mar} (Greer) Dyer, the former, a native of Kentucky and the latter, of Simpson township, Johnson county. Missouri. The father was born in 1837 in Warren county, Kentucky, on his father's farm near Bowling Green. James D. Dyer was a son of Noah W. Dyer, who moved with his family to Missouri in 1840 and settled on a tract of land located near AuUville. Noah W. Dyer died in Warrensburg, Missouri, and burial was made in Oak Grove cemetery. James D. Dyer resided for many years on the farm in Hazel Hill township, which farm is a part of the place now owned by his son, Alex J., the subject of this review. Mary (Greer) Dyer was a daughter of Alex Greer, of Simpson township, born on the Greer farm in that section of Johnson county. To James D. and Mary Dyer were born twelve children, eight of whom are now living: Alonzo, Kansas City, Missouri; James, Jr.. who died at the age of two years; Mrs. Inez Hufif, Nevada, Missouri; Mrs. Mattie Greenwell, Columbus, Missouri; Bedo, Warrensburg, Missouri; Noah, Aullville, Missouri; Alex J., the subject of this review; Miles, Los Angeles, California; Roy, Dayton, Washington; Virgie, who died in 1915 at the age of thirty years; Sallie, who died in childhood at the age of two years; and Willie, who died in infancy. The father is now deceased and the mother resides in Warrensburg.

Mr. Dyer, whose name introduces this sketch, obtained his education in the Nefif district school in Hazel Hill township. He began life for himself at the age of twenty-one years, engaged in farming on the place where he now resides. In 1897, he purchased the farm, which is a part of the original Dyer homestead. There were no improvements on this tract of land at that time and Mr. Dyer has added all that are now on it. There are at present two splendid barns, well-constructed and equipped for handling stock. The handsome residence, a house of seven spacious rooms, is modern throughout. It was built in 1915. "Elm Grove Stock Farm" comprises one hundred sixty acres of land, which .lie on the line between Simpson and Hazel Hill townships, a place conveniently located twelve and a half miles north of Warrensburg.

October 18, 1899, Alex J. Dyer and Jimmie Odell, daughter of Isaiah H. and Anna E. (Marr) Odell, of Columbus township, both natives of Johnson county, were united in marriage. Mr. Odell was born December 23, 1829, and died April 18, 1914, and Mrs. Odell was born April 7, 1844, and died January 14, 1911. They were the parents of four children, who are now living: Mrs. Hazel Wood, who resides on the home place in Columbus township; Mrs. Joe Barnett, Odessa, Missouri; Mrs. Jessie Collins, Odessa, Missouri; and Mrs. Jimmie Dyer, the wife of Alex J. Dyer, the subject of this review. To Mr. and Mrs. Dyer has been born one son, Odell, who is now a student in the third year of the Farmers High School, consolidated district Number 3. Mr. and Mrs. Dyer have taken into their home to rear two little ones, orphans, a brother and sister, Earl and Mayola Playford, who are now attending school in the home district. Earl was adopted four years ago and his little sister two years later. This humanitarian act of the Dyers is only one instance of their fine big-heartedness. charity, and kindness. But no Dyer is known, who is of little, narrow-minded, selfish disposition. This family is one of the most respected and most public-spirited in Johnson county.

Thomas C. Lamb, the efficient and highly esteemed mail carrier on Rural Route 39 out of Fayetteville, Missouri, was born October 2, 1890, in Barry county, on his father's farm near Washington. He is a son of L. and Louisa (Willis) Lamb, both of whom were natives of Clark county, Illinois. L. Lamb was born in 1851. He learned the harness trade in early manhood and followed this work for more than thirty years. He served as apprentice for J. Steele, while mastering the details of the harness business at Washburn, Missouri. Louisa (Willis) Lamb was born in 1853. The Lambs came to ^Missouri from Illinois in 1886 and they located first in Xewton county, coming thence to Johnson county in 1900, where Mr. and ]Mrs. L. Lamb have made their home for the past seventeen years. They are the parents of eleven children : John Edward, Washburn, Missouri; Eli Victor, Warrensburg, Missouri; Mrs. Clara Bray, Tulsa, Oklahoma: Mrs. Ida Clauch, Warrensburg, Missouri; Sadie, at home with her parents; William, Warrensburg, Missouri; Mrs. Etta Barkhurst, \\'arrensburg, ^lissouri: Lee R., Republic, Missouri; Thomas C, Fayetteville, Missouri; Lifus, Fayetteville, ^li.ssouri ; and Follis, Fayetteville, Missouri.

Thomas C. Lamb attended the public schools of Fayetteville. He was engaged in farming in Hazel Hill township until November 1. 1910. when he was appointed mail carrier on Rural Route 39 out of Fayetteville and for the past seven years has been filling this position. Mr. Lamb leaves Fayetteville in his auto at 11 a. m. and covers his route of twenty-four and two-tenths miles in three hours. In July 1917, he carried six thousand pieces of mail and July was a light month. Mr. Lamb has given splendid satisfaction and all the people on his route speak of him and his work with the highest praise.

March 23, 1913, Thomas C. Lamb and Mary F. McKenzie, daughter of W. E. McKenzie, of Higginsville, Missouri, were united in marriage. Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Lamb, both of whom died in infancy. Thomas C. and Mrs. Lamb are highly respected and very popular in Fayetteville, where they reside at their home known as the Doctor Miller property.

Dr. Forrest C. Allen, the widely-known director of physical education and athletics of the \\'arrensburg State Normal School, is one of the most prominent practitioners of osteopathy in this section of Missouri. Dr. Allen was born November 18, 1885, in Jameson. Daviess county, a son of William T. and Mary E. (Perry) Allen. William T. Allen was born in Virginia in 1850, a son of George P. and Sarah (Miller) Allen. The Aliens came to Missouri from Virginia in 1866 and settled in Daviess county, where for many years George P. Allen was county surveyor. He was a Confederate veteran, having served in the regiment commanded by General Sterling Price. Both Mr. and Mrs. George P. Allen are now deceased. Mrs. Allen died in 1904 at Independence, Missouri, where the son, William T., now resides. Mary E. (Perry) Allen is a daughter of Reverend John Wesley Perry, a native of Virginia, who came to Missouri within a short time after the close of the Civil War and settled in Daviess county. Reverend Perry was also a Confederate veteran. He served throughout the war under General Robert E. Lee, one of the best military leaders the world has ever known. To William T. and Mary E. Allen have been born six children, all of whom are now living: Homer P., a prominent lumberman of Independence, Missouri; Elmer M., a successful motor car dealer of Independence, Missouri; Harry B., captain of Battery F, Second Missouri Field Artillery; Forrest C, the subject of this review; Hubert Lee, formerly a motor car dealer in the employ of Studebaker's manufacturing company located at San Francisco, California, and now with the United States Aviation Corps; and Richard C, who recently enlisted with the United States Aviation Corps at St. Louis, Missouri. The six sons of Mr. and Mrs. William T. Allen composed the well-known and remembered "Allen Brothers' Basket Ball Team."

Dr. Forrest C. Allen is a graduate of Independence High School, Independence, Missouri. While a student in high school. Doctor Allen was a member of every athletic organization in the school and played on every team, taking an active and prominent part in all forms of athletics. In 1905. he entered the University of Kansas and was in attendance at that institution during the years of 1905, 1906. and 1907. Doctor Allen matriculated at the university in October and in the autumn of that year played with the "Freshman Ever-Victorious Football Team," which team defeated every college team they played against that year. "Pat" Crowell, Carl Pleasant, and "Tommy" Johnson were three celebrated players of the university team, which was coached by "Shorty" Hammel, one of the best and most renowned football coaches in the country, that played on the Freshman team with Doctor Allen. At the beginning of the basket ball season of the same college year, Doctor Allen was chosen captain of the Kansas University basket ball team and this team won the Missouri Valley championship. He was a member of the Kansas City .\thletic Clul) Team, which defeated the Buffalo German Young Men's Christian Association, world's champions, in a series of three basket ball games at Convention Hall. Doctor Allen was awarded a life membership in the Kansas City Athletic Club for this victory. In the spring of his freshman year at the university. Doctor Allen played as second baseman on the baseball team. He so distinguished himself in athletics at college that in 1907 he received a flattering ofifer to coach the Baker University team in basket ball, a position which he accepted and at the same time continued his work in Kansas Uni\'ersity. Tlie Baker Unixersity team won the [Missouri Valley championship in 1907. In 1908 and 1909, Doctor Allen coached the Kansas University team in basket ball and they won back the Missouri Valley championship. As coach, he was associated with Dr. James Naismith, the inventor of basket ball, who is director of physical education at Kansas University. Doctor Allen, in 1908, coached the Haskell Indians in addition to his athletic work at the university and thai year took the Indians on a five-thousand-mile trip through Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and ^Michigan, and out of the twentyfour games plaved on twenty-five different nights, the Indians won nineteen. The doctor resigned his position as coach in September, 1909, and entered the Central College of Osteopathy at Kansas City. Missouri, from which institution he graduated in June, 1912. He came to Warrensburg in September, following, and assumed the duties of coach or director of physical education and athletics in the Warrensburg State Normal School, which position he still holds. The first year after he took charge, the college won every game in football, basket

June 25, 1907, Dr. Forrest C. Allen and Bessie E. Milton, daughter of Robert F. and Elizabeth L. Milton, of Jackson county, Missouri, were united in marriage. Robert F. Milton is a well-known and prosperous farmer and stockman of Jackson county, proprietor of "Sunnyside Stock Farm." To Dr. and Mrs. Allen have been born four children: Mary Elizabeth, Forrest Claire, Jr., Milton Perry, and Jane. The Aliens reside in Warrensburg in their attractive home at 110 Broad street, a handsome bungalow constructed of brick and stucco having eight large, airy, well-lighted rooms and supplied with all the latest and most modern conveniences.

As a practitioner, Doctor Allen's abilities have been recognized by the dififerent universities of Kansas, Missouri, and Illinois. Hufif, the athletic director of the University of Illinois, wired Doctor Allen in December, 1916, to come to Champaign and "fix up" his men. who had dislocated bones, strained tendons, and sprains. The doctor answered the call for help and the Champaign "Daily News" soon after his arrival came out witli a splendid "write up" of him, calling the stranger "The Miracle Man." The paper, in giving a list of the men treated .and restored to their pristine vigor and strength, quoted the doctor as follows:

"I like to coach football and to fix the fellows up," said the Miracle Man on Tuesday. "I believe I could make more money practicing in some large city, but I wouldn't leave my position at Warrensburg for anything."

John M. Gilkeson, proprietor of "Mount Sinai Stock Farm." is one of the most industrious and progressive farmers and stockmen of Hazel Hill township. He was born in Warrensburg in 1870 at the Gilkeson home on West Gay street, a son of Archibald H. and Mary J. Gilkeson. Archibald H. Gilkeson was born in Virginia in 1830. He was one of the pioneer merchants of Warrensburg, in which city he opened a mercantile establishment in 1859 and for more than forty years was active in the business afifairs of Warrensburg. To Mr. and Mrs. Archibald H. Gilkeson were born five children, all of whom were reared to maturity and are now living: Mrs. W. L. Hedges, Warrensburg, Missouri ; Dr. H. P. Gilkeson, Warrensburg, Missouri ; Mrs. Cora Menefee, of Oklahoma; John M-, the subject of this review; and A. L., who is a leading merchant of Grangeville. Idaho. The father died in 1911 and interment was made in the cemetery at Warrensburg. He was an honest, upright, capable citizen, who was well known and respected in Johnson count_v. The widowed mother now makes her home in Wavrensburg.

"Mount Sinai Stock Farm" comprises five hundred acres of land, which lie at the heads of Honey and Walnut creeks, and is generally conceded to be one of the very finest farms in the county. This tract of land was entered from the government by Samuel Cornet and from him was transferred to Simpson Brown. The Johnson county Savings Bank obtained the farm from Mr. Brown and the bank sold it to Mr. Gilkeson in 1894. All the splendid improvements on the place have been placed there by Mr. Gilkeson. He has built three large stock barns, which are well equipped with modern appliances. The residence is an imposing structure of ten rooms, constructed with a concrete basement. large porches, and supplied with the latest conveniences. It is modern throughout and well lighted by an acetylene plant. Mr. Gilkeson has tiled all the low land on his farm and has given much time and attention to improving the soil. The place is exceptionall}- well watered by six excellent springs, which furnish water for every field. All the fields are fenced with "hog-tight" wire fencing and the past season of 1917 Mr. Gilkeson had one hundred twenty-five acres of the farm in wheat, one hundred twenty-five acres of corn, and the balance in pasture land and grass. He employed three assistants and he and his son. Jack E., managed the farm work very successfully. For the last four years, John M. Gilkeson has handled Shorthorn cattle, mules, and hogs. Recently he disposed of his entire herd of cattle. He has the distinction of ha\- ing sold the first carload of mules ever shipped from Johnson county. that brought two hundred fifty dollars a head. The mules were purchased by Mr. Gilkeson when they were colts and fed for the market. He has been one of the most widely-known and extensive buyers and feeders in this county. He is an earnest advocate of vaccination for hog cholera and he. himself, double treated his first hogs with vaccine and when he buys hogs from different parts of the county, he invariably vaccinates them, making them immune from cholera before shipping. Mr. Gilkeson thinks that the day is not far distant when hog cholera will be unknown, having been eliminated by vaccination. It is his present plan to devote more attention in the future to general farming and he has purchased a tractor for ploughing, harrowing, and other farm work. He said, "Put me down as a farmer - a producer. That is what I am and wdiat I wish to be." John M. Gilkeson is a true producer, a successful and highly intelligent farmer. He raises stock and feeds them well from the grain and feed which he produces on the farm.

October 15, 1895, John M. Gilkeson and Ella ]\Iarkey, daughter of Amos Markey, of Centerview township, w-ere united in marriage and to this union have been born two children : Helena^ who is a student at the Warrensburg State Normal School; and Jack E., who is also a student at the Warrensburg State Normal School. The Gilkeson family are well known and prominent in Johnson county. They have long been enrolled among the best and most respected citizens of this section of the state.

G. A. Lobban, a prominent merchant of Warrensburg, is one of the county's "self-made" men, a leading and influential citizen, and a "booster" for his home city. He was born June 17, 1839, in Virginia, one of three sons born to his parents, John G. and Mary Jane Lobban, both of whom were native Virginians. Their children were: John L., who came West and settled in Johnson county about 1856, engaged in the mercantile business prior to the Civil War, continued to be one of Warrensburg's successful merchants for many years afterward, and died in 1891 ; William A., an ex-Confederate soldier, who was born and reared in Virginia; G. A., the subject of this review; and Mary Jane, the wife of Joseph Smith, who died in Warrensburg several years ago. Both parents died in Virginia. The father's death occurred in 1845 and the mother's a few years before that time.

In the common schools of Virginia, G. A. Lobban obtained a good education. In 1858, when he was a youth nineteen years of age, he left Virginia and came to Missouri, locating first in W'arrensburg. In 1862, he went to Sedalia, where he was employed in government service as post clerk in the quartermaster's department, a position he held for three years and then returned to Warrensburg in 1865, when the Civil War had ended, and entered the plastering business. Mr. Lobban followed this vocation until 1874, when he entered the mercantile business, associated with Joseph Smith, his brother-in-law, in a store located on North Holden street. After a few years, Mr. Lobban assumed complete control of the establishment, which he sold in 1899. He then remodeled the store building, which he owned on North Holden street, and. in 1901, purchased a new line of merchandise and with liis two sons. Albert and LesHe, opened the Lobban's Dry Goods Company's store at 212 Holden street and for the past seventeen years this estabHshment has continued in business and is today one of the best and most aggressive business firms in the city. The stock is kept in splendid condition, up to date, clean, and neatly arranged. G. A. Lobban was married in 1863 to Sarah Elizabeth Bratton. who died in 1874. leaving two children: Ida L. and J. Luther. In 1875 he was married to Sarah Ann Johnston, who died December 25, 1917. Five children were born to this union: Leora L.. Albert A.. Leslie L., Ethyl C., and Carl P.

Mr. Lobban has always taken an active interest in municipal affairs and he was one of the committee appointed to meet at Sedalia, ]\Iissouri in 1869 to arrange to have the State Normal School located in A\'arrensburg. How successful and influential was this committee, composed of the city's most prominent and energetic citizens, is evidenced by the AA'arrensburg State Normal School. 'Mr. Lobban was a valued member of the city council for three years, during 1892, 1893, and 1894.

Besides his three sons. Albert A.. Leslie L.. and Carl P.. all of whom are well known and highly respected merchants of W^arrensburg. and J. Luther, G. A. Lobban has three daughters; Airs. Ida L. Cord, Los Angeles, California ; Airs. John V. Brewer, Fort Worth, Texas : and Miss Ethvl C, teacher of singing in Warrensburg, Missouri. All the Lobban girls graduated from the Warrensburg State Normal School. Mr. Lobban has recently completed one of the most attractive and elegant residences in the city of Warrensburg. His home is located on East Alarket street.

Carl P. Lobban, of Carl P. Lobban's Athletic Goods Company of Warrensburg, Missouri, is one of this city's enterprising and successful voung merchants. He is one of Warrensburg's own boys, having been born in the city in 1892, a son of G. A. and Sarah Ann (Johnston) Lobban, the former, a native of Virginia and the latter, of Missouri. G. A. Lobban came to Missouri in the early fifties. To Mr. and Mrs. G. A. Lobban were born five children : Albert, Warernbsurg. Alissouri; Mrs. Leora Brewer. Fort AVorth. Texas: Leslie, Warrensburg, Missouri: Ethyl. Warrensburg. Missouri: and Carl P., the subject of this review. The three sons. Alfred. Leslie, and Carl, are all prominent and leading merchants of Warrensburg. A more comprehensive sketch

Mr. Lobban, whose name introduces this sketch, attended the city schools of Warrensburg and the Warrensburg High School. After completing his high school work, he traveled through the West for some time and spent several months in California and Texas. In January, 1914, Carl P. Lobban entered the mercantile business in Warrensburg, purchasing the H. E. Schneitter's Sporting Goods Company's establishment, and for the past three years has continued in business in Warrensburg at 122 North Holden street. The firm is now known as the Carl P. Lobban's- Athletic Goods Company. This store carries a complete line of sporting goods, athletic supplies, all things needed in the way of school supplies by the students of the Warrensburg State Normal School, and a large library of Victor records. This is the only store in the city which can completely equip the students of the Normal School. The stock is neatly and artistically arranged and is in every respect up to date and a model, clean line of the best that money can bu3^ Mr. Lobban is an ambitious "hustler" and he is deservedly "making good" in the mercantile business. He is one of the county's most highly valued and promising citizens of the younger generation.

James Lobban and Charles Lobban, proprietors of Lobbans' Garage of Warrensburg, Missouri, are two progressive, enterprising, young citizens of Johnson county, members of a prominent pioneer family of Warrensburg. The Lobban brothers are sons of James Luther Lobban, the late leading merchant of Warrensburg, who was a son of G. A. Lobban, a well-known merchant of this city, who has been connected with the mercantile interests of Warrensburg for the past fifty years. The grandfather, G. A. Lobban, a sketch of whom appears in this volume, resides in Warrensburg on East Market street.

In the Warrensburg city schools, both James and Charles Lobban obtained their education. James Lobban and O. E. Hedlund were formerly in partnership in control of the Warrensburg Garage & Sales Company but in November, 19LS, Charles Lobban purchased the interest of Mr. Hedlund in the establishment which has ever since been conducted by the Lobban brothers as Lobbans' Garage. The building, in which the garage is located at 321 North Holden street, was erected in 1901 by J. L. Lobban, father of the Lobban boys. This structure is 60 X 100 feet in dimensions and is constructed of Warrensburg sand-

James Luther Lobban was born in Johnson county just after the close of the Civil War. He was an ambitious, enthusiastic merchant and a man of keen vision. He was the originator of the Warrensburg Wholesale Grocery Company, which has continued in business since his death and has grown until it has attained mammoth proportions in the field of merchandising and its splendid success is a silent tribute to the remarkable business judgment and foresight of James Luther Lobban. There is not a man in the city of Warrensburg or in Johnson county, connected in any way with the mercantile interests, who does not express the deepest regret because of the untimely death of Mr. Lobban. He was widely known and universally respected and admired for his countless sterling and manly qualities. His sons should l)e proud to bear his name, the synonym for honorable business dealings.

James Lobban, Jr., is now connected with the Warrensburg Wholesale Grocery Company and Charles has complete charge of the garage. Lobban's Garage has the agency for Overland cars in this district and besides does general repair work, vulcanizing, and auto livery. The firm is a live one, and the brothers are fine "hustlers," willing to push hard for business. They have been very successful and both are worthy of all the success which attends their efforts. In every way. James and Charles are well-qualified, excellent business men and worthy of the name they bear.

W. J. McMahan, a prominent farmer and stockman of Columbus township, is a native of Morgan county, IMissouri. He was born April 23, 1865, a son of Andrew Jackson and Sarah Frances (Hull) McMahan, the former, a native of Johnson county and the latter, of Franklin county. Missouri. Andrew Jackson McMahan was born in 1834 on a farm located six miles southeast of Warrensburg, a son of Grantser McMahan. a native of Virginia, who came to Johnson county probably in the early thirties and located on the farm near Warrensburg, where his son, Andrew Jackson, was born. The grandfather McMahan died on the farm now owned by his grandson, W. J., the subject of this review, and burial was made at Alount Moriah cemetery. Before the Civil War, the McMahans moved to a farm in Columbus township and in 1868 settled on the farm known now as the W. J. McMahan place. In January, 1911, the death of Andrew Jackson McMahan occurred at his home in War- rensburg. Burial was made in the cemetery at Warrensburg. The widow of Mr. McMahan is now hving, at the advanced age of seventysix years, in Warrensburg. Mr. and Mrs. McMahan were the parents of nine children: Mrs. Bettie Burris, Warrensburg, Missouri; W. J. the subject of this review; Bennie, who died in childhood at the age of four years; Annie, who died at the age of six years; Malah, who died at the age of six years; Mrs. Dora Welch, deceased; Addie, who died in childhood; Mrs. Mattie Fitzgerald, Columbus township; and Arthur, who died at the age of three years.

At Shiloh, W. J. McMahan received a good common-school education. Early in life, he began farming and stock raising and until he was thirty-three years of age remained at home and worked for his parents. Mr. McMahan's first school teacher was Abraham Whaley, a wellknown pioneer of Columbus township and at one time owner of the Forrest Wilson farm in this district. In 1902, Mr. McMahan purchased his present home from his father. The McMahan farm comprises one hundred seventy-five acres of valuable land, twenty acres of which are timbered, upland with the exception of a small tract of twenty acres. W. J. McMahan and his father added all the improvements now on the place, which include a splendid stock and hay barn, 28 x 54 feet in dimensions, and a comfortable residence of six rooms built about 1893. Cattle, hogs, and horses of high grade are raised on this farm, which is located twelve miles northwest of Warrensburg.

October 5, 1897, W. J. McMahan was united in marriage with Sadie Dillon, daughter of E. E. Dillon and Maria Jane (Ramsey) Dillon, honored pioneers of Knob Noster. Mr. Dillon was a native of Illinois. He came from that state to Johnson county about 1865 and bought a farm of one hundred twenty acres of land now owned by Perry and Debo Fulkerson. On this place, Mrs. McMahan was born. She has living two sisters: Mrs. Birdie McCuUum, of Kansas City, Missouri; and Mrs. Mary A. Richley, Warrensburg, Missouri. E. E. Dillon died in 1894 and Mrs. Dillon is now residing in Warrensburg. The father was laid to rest in the cemetery at Columbus, Missouri. To W. J. and Sadie (Dillon) McMahan have been born three children: Uel, who is now a student in the Farmers High School; Erma Lee, who is a student in the Warrensburg High School; and Jesse Vernon, at home with his parents. The McMahans are one of the highly valued and most respected families of Johnson county.

C. A. Cumutt, a competent and successful farmer and stockman of Columbus township, is a native of Tennessee. He was born in 1865 in Anderson county, a son of Calloway and Sarah E. (Harliss) Curnutt, both of whom were natives of Tennessee and are now deceased. The father died in 1885 and the mother died prior to her son"s coming \\'est. Both parents departed this life in the state in which they were born.

Mr. Curnutt, whose name introduces this sketch, came to Missouri in 1886 and for two years was located in Nodaway county. He then went further west and after three years returned to this state to reside in Holt county until 1891. He) then went back to Nodaway county and thence came to Johnson county in 1903. locating first in Centerview township, where he purchased the Sarah L. Baile farm, which he sold in 1910. Mr. Curnutt then spent one year in the South, after which he returned to Johnson county and bought his present home from John A. \\^ebb. This place was formerly owned by Pressley Anderson and Air. W'aldon. who entered the tract of land from the government. Mr. W'aldon owned at one time four hundred acres of land in this township. C. A. Curnutt's place comprises three hundred twenty acres of land located ten and a half miles northwest of Warrensburg and two and a half miles southeast of Columbus. The larger portion of the farm is in pasture and Mr. Curnutt is devoting special attention to stock raising. He has the place well equipped with a good barn, silo, feeder, and crib conveniently arranged for handling stock. As a rule, Mr. Curnutt keeps a large number of registered O-xford sheep, but at the time of this writing has none on the farm. He has also devoted much attention to raising z\berdeen Angus cattle, but at the present time, in 1917, has but three head. An interesting little plat of land of the Curnutt farm, of special attractiveness to up-to-date farmers, is in alfalfa, which has been cut three times this past season. Mr. Curnutt was well pleased with his harvest and will increase his acreage next vear. He is a most progressi\"e and well-informed agriculturist and since his coming to this farm has been constantly at work improving it. He has put up eight hundred rods of four-foot fencing and has drilled a well four hundred feet in depth. The water in the well rose within twenty-four feet of the top and it is pumped to the residence, barn, feed lots, and besides this water supply there is a spring, which has never gone dry, on the place. The farm lies on the Warrensburg and Columbus road. The home is located on a high ridge overlooking

In 1915, C. A. Curnutt was united in marriage with Dora E. Ross, daughter of John Ross, now deceased, a late prominent citizen of Maitland, Missouri. Mrs. Curnutt's mother is yet living. To C. A. and Dora E. Curnutt has been born one child, a son, Clarvel Ross. Mr. and Mrs. Curnutt are thrifty but enterprising citizens and they have made a host of friends in Johnson county. They are numbered among the best, most respected, substantial families of Columbus township.

James J. Campbell, proprietor of "Brookside Farm" in Columbus township, is a direct descendant of one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence of 1776. Mr. Campbell is a native of Howard county and a member of a prominent pioneer family of Missouri. His parents came to Missouri in an early day from Kentucky. He was born August 25, 1872, a son of James and Priscilla Grace (Rush) Campbell. James Campbell was born November 9. 1824 and Mrs. Campbell in 1833. They were the parents of fourteen children : Harriet Frances Leakey, McAlester, Oklahoma: Alphonso, deceased: Mrs. Ruth N. McMullen, Rich Hill, Missouri; William Thomas, deceased: Mrs. Sidney Parker Werton, Joplin, Missouri; Mrs. Sallie Bell McMullen, Henrietta. Oklahoma; Mrs. Emily Grigsby Nelson, St. Louis, Missouri; Stephen Romeo, Rich Hill, Missouri ; Nancy Jane Bynum, deceased ; Mrs. Grace Rush Ainsworth, Idaho Falls, Idaho; James J., the subject of this review; Mrs. Kate Celeste Mudd, Kansas City. Missouri; Casey Blake, Odessa, Missouri; and one child died in infancy. James Campbell, Sr. was a veteran of the Mexican War and he also served in the Civil \\'ar for four years with the Confederates. He died June 28, 1878 and his remains were interred in the cemetery at Boonesboro in Howard county. The mother survived her husband many years. She died September 1, 1913 and was laid to rest in the cemetery at Rich Hill in Bates county. Mrs. Campbell was a member of the Rush family, who traced their lineage back to Benjamin Rush, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. In 1912, a reunion of the James Campbell family was held at Rich Hill, Missouri and the ten children, survivors of the splendid familv of fourteen, were all present and the three daughters-in-law, also.

James Campbell, Jr. obtained his education in the public schools of Howard and Johnson counties. Mr. Campbell came to Columbus with his mother in 1884 and he was then a lad twelve years of age. He was a child six years of age, when death entered their home and left him fatherless. The mother rented a farm and for a few years they resided there. j\Ir. Campbell purchased his present home in 1898 from James M. Stout. This place was formerly the Hornbuckle place. Mr. Campbell has added all the improvements now on the farm, including fencing, wells, orchard, barns, and residence. A barn was built in 1909, which is 40 x 48 feet in dimensions and sixteen feet to square, used for stock, grain, and hay. The eight-room residence was built in 1914 and is modern throughout, having a splendid basement and supplied with water and wired for lights. Mr. Campbell has a fine herd of high grade Polled Aberdeen Angus cattle, a registered male heading the herd of twenty cows and heifers. He produces on "Brookside Farm" the feed for his cattle and hogs and he has one of the best Spotted Poland China male hogs in this county. "Brookside Farm" comprises one hundred fifty-two acres of land located two miles northwest of Columbus, eleven miles southeast of Odessa, and seventeen miles from Warrensburg. Blackwater is but a mile away and a tributary flows through the northwest corner of the place. This is one of the beautiful country homes of Johnson county and it was acquired not bv inheritance but by hard labor and the practice of constant economv and frugality.

June 2, 1897, James J. Campbell, Jr. was united in marriage with Rosa Boyd Stout, daughter of James M. and Nancy Ann (Fitch) Stout, natives of Kentucky, who came to ]\Iissouri in 1874. The grandfather of Mrs, Stout came to America in colonial days from England. The Stouts were formerly residents of Columbus, but Mrs. Stout is now making her home in Warrensburg, ^Missouri. To Mr. and Mrs. Campbell has been born one child, a daughter, Ada Lucille, who is now a student at the ^^'arrensl)urg State Normal School. Miss Ada Lucille has an established reputation for high scholarship for as a student in the Odessa High School she won the Columbia University scholarship in 1917, which would have admitted her as an honor student in the State University of Missouri. She is a young lady of excellent attainments and marked ability, a daughter of whom to be proud. Mr. and Mrs. Campbell are progressive, intelligent citizens and Mr. Campbell is one of the county's most public-spirited men, a "booster" for good roads, better farms, and better homes.

rensburg, Missouri, is a son of a highly respected pioneer family of Nodaway county, Missouri. He was born in Nodaway county in 1858, son of Alfred and Eliza (Heflin) Jones. Alfred Jones was one of the first settlers of Nodaway county, settling there in 1846, when the county was very sparsely settled. Mr. Jones donated two and a half acres of land, the site of the home where his son. Will R., was born, for a cemetery. At one time an old log school house, where the old-fashioned "subscription school" was held stood on this tract of land. Alfred Jones always took an active interest in schools and churches and was a liberal supporter of all worthy enterprises. Both he and his wife are now deceased. They died in Nodaway county and were buried in the cemetery at White Cloud church.

In the home school in Nodaway county. Will R. Jones received a good common school educatin. He remained with his parents until he was twent3^-eight years of age and then began farming on a place he purchased in Nodaway county, where he remained until 1895. Mr. Jones sold his farm in that county and, in 1905, came to Johnson county. He bought the Stratton place, comprising one hundred twenty acres of land located three and a half miles east of Warrensburg and for seven years was there engaged in general farming and stock raising. For eighteen months, Mr. Jones was then employed on the state farm, after which he bought a small tract of land, embracing five acres within the corporation limits of Warrensburg, and he has since been engaged in truck farming and gardening. The State Normal classes in agriculture are frequently brought to Mr. Jones' little farm to be shown a practical demonstration of intensified farming.

In 1893, Will R. Jones was united in marriage with Sarah Parish and to this union have been born two children : Otta and Merle. By a former marriage. Will R. Jones and Lucy Bootwright were the parents of two children, who are now living: Mrs. Grace M. Rice, Barnard, Missouri; and Will R., Jr., a merchant of Atlanta, Georgia.