Lincoln County, Missouri - Chapter 16: Miscellaneous, 1888 (part 4 of 4)

Biogeaphical Appendix

Dr. Robert L. Robinson, physician and druggist at Troy, is the son of Owen C. and Elizabeth (Salmonds) Robinson. [For sketch of parents see above. J The Doctor was born April 14, 1854, in Lincoln County, Mo., and was the second child born to his parents. He remained on the farm until about sixteen years of age, and secured a good education in Watson Seminary and Mc- Gee College, near Macon City, Mo. He then spent some time in Bryant & Stratton's Commercial College, at St. Louis. Having studied medicine under Dr. W. S. Hutt, of Troy, he entered the St. Louis Medical College, graduating from the same in 1876. He then began practicing at Troy, and continued in active business until 1881, when he purchased a stock of drugs, and has since had an office practice. Dr. Robinson has made this county his home all his life, and is one of Troy's useful, stirring business men. He is a member of the I. O. O. R, and is a Democrat in politics. He is a single gentleman.

Judge William Webb Shaw is a son of William and Martha (Webb) Shaw, who were born in Virginia in 1784 and 1793, respectively. After their marriage, which occurred in 1811, they lived in their native State until 1833, when they came to Missouri and located in Pike County, where they spent the remainder of their days. The father was quite skillful in the use of tools, and found plenty of work to do, at that early day, in making furniture and shoes for his own and the neighboring families. He was an extensive farmer, and had twenty-one tobacco barns on his farm. He was a Democrat, and died while visiting in Virginia in 1846. The mother died in Pike County in 1845. Judge William Shaw is the eighth of their ten children. He was born in Bedford County, Va., November 14, 1830, and his early days were spent on the farm and in the district and select schools. At the age of sixteen he was left alone in the world, and two years later taught his first school, and continued to teach the " young idea" during the winter months for ten years. When out of the school room he farmed and handled stock. He has been quite successful in his business ventures, and owns 320 acres of land, and deals extensively in stock. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and the A. O. U. W., and supports the principles of the Democratic party. He served two years as justice of the peace, and in 1860 was chosen judge of the county court, being, perhaps, the youngest judge the county has ever had. From 1872 until 1875 he served as collector of Lincoln County, and, as an official, has given the best satisfaction. He is now filling the office of notary public, and is a wide-awake and highly respected citizen.

Jesse J. Shaw, county court clerk, is the son of William W. and Mary J. (Stewart) Shaw. The father was born in Bedford County, Va., in 1830, and when three years of age was brought to Pike County, Mo. In 1847 he moved to Lincoln County, Mo., where he now resides on a good farm. The mother wTas born in Montgomery County, Ky., in 1829, and was brought to Missouri when an infant. In 1830 her parents moved to Lincoln County, and here she met and married Mr. Shaw in 1850. She was the daughter of Gen. David Stewart, who represented Lincoln County in the Legislature of 1846. In 1860 Mr. Shaw was elected judge of the county court, and served until he refused to take the iron-clad oath. In 1872 he was chosen collector, being the first to hold that position after the office of sheriff was divided. He served two years and then retired to farm life. In politics Mr. Shaw has always been Democratic, and he and wife are members of the Christian Church. Their family consisted of eight children, Jesse J. being the fourth child. He was born December 6, 1857, in Lincoln County, Mo., and was reared on a farm. He attended the district school, the Troy High School and the State University. He then taught school three years, clerked in a store, and in 1881 he came into the county clerk's office as deputy and served until 1886, when he was chosen county clerk, receiving the largest majority of any man in the county running for an official position. Since 1881 he has been clerk of the probate court. In 1884 he married Miss Annie M. McKay, a native of Lincoln County and a member of the Christian Church. Mr. Shaw is a Democrat in politics, is Past Master of the A. O. U. W., is Master of the Troy Lodge of the A. F. & A. M., and is also a member of the Chapter.

Mary L. (Claiborne) Shelton, both natives of Virginia, he of Pittsylvania County and she from near Kichmond. To their marriage were born seven children, only two of whom are- now living. The mother died at the age of thirty-five, and in 1837 the father, with his four sons, moved to Lincoln County, Mo., and located on a farm. He had prepared himself for the legal profession and followed the same for many years in Virginia, but failing health caused him to abandon it. He was a Whig, and died in 1840. The mother was a member of the Episcopal Church. The youngest child but one, Peachy G. Shelton, was born in Pittsylvania County, Va., September 20, 1832, and came to this county in 1837. He was reared on a farm and his education was acquired at the old subscription schools of long ago. After the death of his father he was cared for by his uncle, and after attaining his majority he engaged in agricultural pursuits. In 1853 he married Miss Susannah C. Shelton, also a native of the same county. To this marriage four children were born, two now living - Willie C, wife of Charles Martin, attorney of Troy, and Robert S., a rising young man. In 1858 Mr. Shelton was elected sheriff of Lincoln County and held this position one term. In 1874 he was elected collector and re-elected in 1876. In 1882 he was again called to that office and re-elected in 1884. Besides this he has been deputy collector for about three years. He is a Democrat in his political principles, is a member of the Masonic fraternity and a member of the A. O. U. W. He has been a resident of Lincoln County for fifty-one years, and is an excellent citizen.

Capt. Aylett M. Shults, of Moscow Mills, was born in Flint Hill, Rappahannock County, Va., in the year 1835, and is the sixth of thirteen children, all but one of whom lived to be grown, born to the marriage of Thompson Shults and Axe Anna Nicol, who were born in 1803 and 1806, respectively, in Virginia. They located in Indiana about 1835, and in 1853 came to Lincoln County, where they spent the remainder of their days, dying in 1879 and 1885. Their ancestors were supposed to be German. Capt. Aylett M. Shults began keeping a nursery near Moscow Mills in 1860 on his father's, farm, but in 1867 removed to his present location, and although beginning the nursery business on a small scale at that time, has now about forty acres which he devotes to raising all kinds of nursery products. He began this work without any experience, but by industry and good business management has been quite successful. His home farm consists of 200 acres, and with his other farm his total amount of land is about 600 acres. He has a very handsome residence, which is nicely and comfortably furnished. In 1865 he was commissioned by Gov. Fletcher as captain of Company H, Sixty-fourth Missouri State Militia. He had previously served as corporal. Lucy Vertrese became his wife in 1864. She was born in Illinois, and is a daughter of Isaac and Rebecca Vertrese, who were formerly of Kentucky, and by them was brought to Lincoln County when quite small. Mr. and Mrs. Shults became the parents of eleven children, nine of whom are living: Clara E., Henry Thompson, Isaac F., Aylett A., Albert J., Lucy M., James L. C, Mary A. E., and John William. Mr. Shults is a Democrat, and he and wife are faithful and consistent members of the Christian Church. On one of Mr. Shults' farms are the celebrated sulphur and mineral springs, one-half mile west of Moscow Mills.

Charles Shumate, junior member of the firm of Kabler & Shumate, was born in St. Louis County, Mo., September 26, 1846, being the son of Rev. W. D. Shumate, of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. The father was born in Culpeper County, Va., and there married Miss Susan Quisenberry, whose grandfather came to St. Louis County, Mo., about 1844, and kept the Fee Fee post-office and the stage stand on the St. Charles and St. Louis route. The parents of our subject came about the same time. The father was engaged in his ministerial duties all his life, and in connection with this followed farming. At one time he traveled as an agent of a colonization society through this country. The mother died in 1848, and afterward the father married again, and lived until 1869. To the first union were born three children, the second child being Charles Shumate. He received his education in the common schools and at Des Peres, and at Henderson & Stewart's Commercial College at St. Louis. He then returned to the farm, and engaged in tilling the soil in St. Louis County until 1876, when he moved to Lincoln

County, and purchased a farm one and one-half miles south of Troy. In 1886 he moved to Troy, and one year later he became a member of the present firm. In 1865 he married Miss Cornelia H. McHaney, who was born in Tennessee, but who was reared in this county. Six children were born to this marriage, three sons and three daughters. The eldest son, Albert, is a graduate of the California State Normal School, and is corresponding agent for the Singer Sewing Machine Company. The second son, James W., is salesman in a dry goods store in Eugene City, Oregon. The youngest son, Thomas D., is in a wholesale drug store at San Jose, Cal. As a business man Mr. Shumate has been quite successful. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and is strongly Democratic in his political views.

James M. Sitton was born in Lincoln County, Tenn., in 1811, and is a son of William and Anna (Gray) Sitton, who were born in South Carolina and Tennessee, respectively. They were married in Smith County, of the latter State, and lived in Lincoln County until 1819, when they removed to Missouri, locating near Auburn. The mother died in 1844, and the father about seven years after. He was of Scotch-Irish descent, and was a captain in the War of 1812, and was at the battle of New Orleans. James M. Sitton is the sixth of sixteen children, fifteen of whom lived to be grown, but only three are now living, and distinctly remembers the hardships the family had to endure after coming to Missouri. His education was received from Judge James Wilson, who received his pay in labor from the farmers. He was married in 1833 to Matilda, a daughter of Clifford Gray, a native of Smith County, Tenn., and six children were born to their union, only two of whom are now living: Lucy, wife of William Doty, and John E. During 1846-48 Mr. Sitton lived in Dubuque County, Iowa, and in 1861-62 in California, mining lead in Iowa, and gold in California; with these exceptions he has lived in Lincoln County for nearly thirty years, and is the owner of 118 acres of land. He has been a life-long Democrat, and his first presidential vote was cast for Jackson. Mrs. Sitton is a member of the Baptist Church.

He is a native of the county, and was born January. 1, 1849, and owing to the death of his parents, when he was very young, he was reared by an uncle, David Barley, who gave him plenty of work to do, but few educational advantages. On attaining his eighteenth year he began working for wages, and continued until 1869, when he was united in marriage to Mary E. Bryant, a native of Lincoln County, and their union was blessed in the birth of five children, two of whom are living : Joseph W. and Maggie O. Mr. Skurlock began farming soon after his marriage, and by proper management and industry is the possessor of 360 acres of land. He deals quite extensively in stock, and is accounted one of the honest farmers of the county. His parents were William and Chaney (Barley) Skurlock, who were early settlers of Missouri. The former died about 1851, and the latter about 1856.

Abbott W. Slaughter, M. D., of Whiteside, was born in Westport, Mo., December 1, 1860, his parents being Alfred and Laura (Abbott) Slaughter, natives of Virginia, where they attained their growth and were married. The father was well educated, and came to Missouri in 1858. He was principal of the Wellington High School, Missouri, for five years ; of the Lexington High School, nine years; Prairie Home Institute, Cooper County, Mo., eleven years; McCune College, Louisiana, Mo., and is now president of Blandville Institute, Kentucky, where both live. Four children were born to this union, two sons and two daughters. Abbott W. Slaughter was educated at Prairie Home Institute and at McCune College, graduating in 1880. He then studied medicine under Drs. Ayers and Dreyfus, of Louisiana, Mo., for three years and then took a course of lectures at St. Louis Medical College, graduating from that institution in 1884. He then located at Silex, and moved to Whiteside in November, 1887. In 1886 he was married to Miss Ruth Reeds. To this union one child, Alfred, was born. Dr. Slaughter is a rising young physician y and justly deserves the patronage with which he has been met. In December, 1887, he opened a neat drug store at Whiteside. He is a Democrat in his political views, is a Mason, a K. of H., and he and wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church.

Mo., may be mentioned Jacob F. and Elizabeth (Willhoit) Srote, both of whom were born in 1808, the former in Kentucky, and the latter in Virginia. They were married in the latter State, whither the mother had come in 1810, and there resided until 1838, at which time they took up their residence in Missouri. The father was a Democrat, and died in 1877. The mother still lives, and resides with her children. Although eighty years of age she has never seen a railroad car. She is the mother of five children, and Jacob F. Srote, whose name heads this sketch, is her youngest child. He was born in Pike County, Mo., December 27, 1842, and assisted his father on the farm until twentyone years of age, at which time he began tilling the soil on his own responsibility. In 1869 he married Alice Haislip, who was also born in Lincoln County, May 6, 1849. Their union has resulted in the birth of two children: William E. and Lester E. Both parents are members of the Missionary Baptist Church, and he is a Democrat. He owns 143 acres of land, having made the most of it since he came to Lincoln County. During the war he served in the militia, and belongs to the A. O. U. W.

F. C. Stoker was born in St. Louis County, Mo., on the 23d of September, 1863, and is a son of Fritz and Mary Stoker, who were born in Germany. After reaching manhood and womanhood they came to America and located in Missouri, and still reside in Lincoln County on a farm. In their family were five children, of whom F. C. Stoker is the fourth. He spent his boyhood days on his father's farm, but received meager educational advantages. When about seventeen years of age he began working at the blacksmith and wagon-maker's trade, and in 1884 came to Olney, where he has a fine business. He usually has two assistants and sometimes more. Mr. Stoker never served an apprenticeship at his trade, but notwithstanding this is a fine workman, and has a commodious and convenient workshop of three rooms, one for blacksmithing, one for wood work, and the third for a paint shop. He supports the principles of the Republican party, and he and wife, Harriet (Davis) Stoker, whom he married in 1884, are members of the Missionary Baptist Church. They have two children - one son and one daughter.

and Bath (Davidson) Story, who were born, reared and spent their lives in New Jersey. The father died about 1833, and his father, Joseph Story, was of Scotch origin and was a Revolutionary soldier. The mother died in 1864. Capt. Joseph Story Avas the fourth of seven children, and was educated in the common schools. When about thirteen years of age he went with a cousin to Illinois, where he made his home until 1846, at which time he joined Company I, First Illinois Volunteers, and served under Gen. Taylor in the Mexican War. After the close of the war he returned to Illinois, and in 1849 was married in Jersey County to Abigail B., daughter of Basil Griggs, by whom she became the mother of seven children, six living: John G., Joseph, James P., Filmore, Capitola (wife of J. E. Witcher) and Mary A. (wife of Lafayette Pendleton). After coming to Adair County, Mo., in 1855, he resided here until 1863, when he returned to Illinois, but located permanently in Lincoln County, Mo., in 1875. He owns a good farm of 276 acres, and is well fixed financially. In July, 1861, he organized Company B, Twenty-first Missouri Volunteer Infantry, and commanded the same until July, 1862, when he resigned on account of disability. He participated in the battle of Shiloh, and since the war has been a stanch Republican in politics. Previous to that time he was a WThig. Mr. Story is an enterprising farmer and a good citizen. Jefferson Sullenger, a leading farmer of Lincoln County, is the youngest of seven children born to John and Lucinda (Berry) Sullenger, who were natives of Virginia and Kentucky, respectively, the former having been born in 1789. They were married in the latter State, and soon after moved to Henry County, Ky., and in 1852 to Lincoln County, Mo. The father was a house carpenter, but also carried on farming with the assistance of his sons. He was a life-long Democrat and died in 1872, followed by his wife two years later. Jefferson Sullenger was born in Henry County, Ky., November 29, 1834, but came with his parents to Missouri and worked on the farm and attended the old subscription schools, where he received but a limited education. When the late war broke out he went to Kentucky and volunteered in the Confederate Army, but not being supplied with guns the regiment disbanded, and every man was told to get south of the Federal lines. Just at this time he received a letter from his father asking him to come home and take charge of the farm. He did so, and began rearing and shipping stock. He soon purchased a farm, and now has a fine lot of land consisting of 700 acres, all of which he has acquired since he was thirty years of age. His marriage with Mrs. Mary S. (Moore) Frank was celebrated November 21, 1883. She was born in Indiana, July 22, 1843. She, as well as Mr. Sullenger, is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and he has always been a Democrat, and is a Chapter Mason.

Eugene L. Sydnor, D. D. S., was born in Troy, Lincoln, Co., Mo., January 24, 1853, and is the son of William and Elizabeth J. (Crews) Sydnor, both natives of Virginia, he born in 1808 and she in 1818. After marriage they lived in their native State until 1835, when they moved to Troy, Mo., and passed the balance of their days there. The father was a first-class business man, and was a trader by occupation, and a Democrat in politics. He died in 1856. Their family consisted of four children, three of whom are living, one son and two daughters. Eugene L. Sydnor was reared and educated in Troy. At the age of nineteen he began learning the dental trade, and in 1871 he entered the St. Louis Medical College, took two courses of medical lectures and a complete course in dental surgery, graduating in 1873. He then located in St. Louis, and after practicing for eighteen months moved to Troy, where he has met with well deserved success, and has received a liberal share of the patronage. In 1886 he married Miss Hettie R. Robinson, a native of Lincoln County, who bore him one son, who is now deceased. The Doctor has followed his profession in Troy for fifteen years, and the class of work he does speaks for his ability as a dentist. He is a member of the Christian Church, is a member of the A. O. U. W., and he is a Democrat in politics. Mrs. Sydnor is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Josiah M. Terrell, merchant at Auburn, Mo., was born in the "Old Dominion," May 20, 1840, and is one of eight children born to Lindsey L. and Mary (Smith) Terrell, who were also born in Virginia. They and six children are still living there. The other two are in Lincoln County, Mo. Josiah M. was reared on his father's farm and had good educational advantages. In 1861 he enlisted in Company G, Thirtieth Virginia Infantry, C. S. A., and served until the close of the war. He was in a number of engagements, and while scouting near Howlet was captured and held a prisoner for eight months at Point Lookout, Md. After his return home he taught school for some time and then turned his attention to stock trading. After his marriage to Leonora E. Luck, which occurred May 24, 1868, he started for the West in 1869, visiting Tennessee, Mississippi and Arkansas. The following year he reached Lincoln County, Mo., where he has ever since resided. After farming for three years he began merchandising in connection with the same, following the latter business in Burr Oak, Whiteside and Auburn. He began business in the latter place in February, 1888. He owns 450 acres of land, well stocked. All his property has been acquired since the war. He and wife belong to the Missionary Baptist Church, and he is a supporter of Democratic principles. He and wife became the parents of four children, but only one now lives, Emory, eight years old.

Martin G. Thompson is of Irish descent, and is the youngest of nine children born to John and Mary (Wilkinson) Thompson, both natives of Kentucky, born in 1784, and died in 1864 and 1858, respectively. They were married in Warren County, Ky., in 1804, and located first in Missouri in 1828,- and in Lincoln County in 1830. In 1831 the father built the house in which his son, Martin G., now lives. He was tobacco inspector while in Kentucky, but his usual occupation was farming. Martin G. was born in Warren County, Ky., in 1828, and in 1857 was married to Timandra Powers, and by her became the father of eleven children; Gentry, Lou (wife of John Bradley), Elmer, Cyrus, Charley, Houston, David and Vollie are those living. Mr. Thompson was in the merchandise business from 1856 to 1868, but since then has lived on the old homestead, which consists o£ 230 acres. Besides this he has forty acres in another tract. He was previously a Whig in politics, but since the war has been a Democrat. He and three children are members of the Methodist Church, and his wife and three other children are members of the Baptist Church. Mrs. Thompson's parents, Edward and

Mary Powers, were born in Virginia in 1796 and 1799, respectively, and were reared in Kentucky. They became residents of Lincoln County, Mo., in 1830, and there spent the remainder of their days.

William Thomas Thurmond, editor and proprietor of the Troy Herald, was born in Prairieville, Pike Co., Mo., June 23, 1839, and is a son of George W. and Frances A. (Shaw) Thurmond, both of whom were born in Virginia. The father's birth occurred in 1815, in Nelson County. When about sixteen years of age he came to Missouri with his parents, and located in Pike County, where he was for several years a farmer and dealer in tobacco. He also for many years manufactured tobacco in Prairieville, Louisiana and St. Louis, Mo., and before the war was mayor of Louisiana for several years, and was for some time county judge. He was also president of the St. Louis Tobacco Association. His family consisted of three children, two of whom are living, Prof. C. M. B. Thurmond and William Thomas. After the mother's death, which occurred in St. Louis in 1846, Mr. Thurmond returned to Pike County, and in 1847 married Frances A. M. Appleberry, by whom he had five children who lived to be grown. He was a Democrat in politics, and died in 1885. William T. was educated in the High School of Louisiana and at Bethany College, West Virginia, graduating from the latter institution in 1860. After working at the tobacco business until 1865 he went to Memphis, Tenn., where he was engaged in the wholesale tobacco business until 1870, shortly after which time he turned his attention to teaching. In 1873 he and his brother took charge of the Christian Institute, and organized the public and high school in Troy, inducing the directors to rent that year and buy the building and grounds the next. They ran it very successfully for three sessions, giving a pronounced impulse to higher education in the county. In 1876 he purchased one -half interest in the Troy Herald, and two years later became sole proprietor. August 10, 1874, he married Harriet E. Moore, a daughter of Fountain Moore, one of the early settlers of Lincoln County. She was born April 10, 1852, and was educated in the Convent of the Sacred Heart at St. Charles, Mo. Seven children were born to them, but only three are living. Mrs.

George S. Townsend, one of the proprietors of the Troy Free Press, was born near Fulton, Mo., November 11, 1859, and is a son of Eli and Margaret C. (Kelly) Townsend, who were born in Bradford, England, and Utica, N. Y., respectively. The father came to America when a young man, and located at Utica, N. Y., where he and Miss Kelly met and married. They afterward moved to Fulton, where the father engaged in business. He is present mayor of Fulton, which position he has held for a number of years. He and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, and he is a Republican in his political views. They became the parents of seven children. George S. Townsend was educated in the public schools, and at the age of seventeen years entered a printing office at Fulton, where he worked until 1880, at which time he became foreman of the Troy Free Press, and later local editor. In February, 1888, he became one of the firm. He is a supporter of Democratic principles and is a Royal Arch Mason.

Ephraim Trail is a native of Lincoln County, Mo., born in 1834, and is a son of John Rollins and Rachel (Cannon) Trail, who were born in Kentucky and Tennessee, respectively. The father came to Missouri at an early day, and settled in the woods near New Hope, being one of the pioneer farmers of the county. His wife died about 1880. Ephraim is the seventh of twelve children, three now living: J. W., of Colorado; Thomas B., of Vernon County, Mo., and Ephraim, whose name heads this sketch. The latter was educated in the old log school-house and at home. He lived with his parents until twenty-one years of age, and after working for his brother, J. W., for some time went to Kentucky, and was overseer of a plantation in that State for eleven years. After living in Colorado for some time he located in Vernon County, where he was engaged for about nine years in farming and stock raising. He has lived in Lincoln County three years, where he has 126 acres of good land near New Hope. Kate Wilson became his wife in 1887. She is a member of the Baptist Church, and is a daughter of Robert and Diana

Benjamin Milton Vance, farmer, stock raiser, and a native of Lincoln County, Mo., was born Maj 7, 1829, and is the ninth of twelve children born to Benjamin and Margaret (Lindsay) Vance, who were born in Virginia and Kentucky in 1780 and 1790, and died in Missouri in 1848 and 1843, respectively. The father moved to Kentucky in 1810, was married the following year, and in 1827 came to Lincoln County, where he became an extensive and prosperous farmer. His father, Samuel Vance, was born in Scotland, and when a young man came to the United States, locating in Virginia, where he married an Irish lady. He was a colonel in the French and Indian Wars under Washington. Benjamin Milton Vance was educated in the primitive log schoolhouses of Lincoln County, but in 1849 emigrated to Wisconsin, and engaged in the mercantile business, and in 1850 went to California in quest of gold, and spent four years in the gold region of that State, He then returned to Wisconsin, and soon after to Lincoln County, where he now resides. He is owner of the old Vance homestead, which contains 700 acres of fine land; is a Democrat and a cl emitted Mason. In May, 1855, he was married to Virginia A., daughter of Francis and Malinda Harvey, whose sketch appears in another part of this work. By this union two children were born, Charles C, who died March 2, 1858, and Frannie M., wife of Prof. W. J. Seaman. Thev are all members of the Baptist Church.

Dr. James A. Ward, of Troy, Lincoln Co., Mo., the subject of this sketch, is the son of John and Rebekah (Perkins) Ward, his mother being a sister of Walton Perkins, deceased, whose sketch is to be found in another part of this history. Both parents Avere born in Lincoln County, N. C, his father in 1795, and his mother in 1798. They were married when very young, and in 1818 moved to Lincoln County, Mo., the country then being new and almost unbroken. His father was a farmer all his life, and in politics a Democrat. His mother, in early life, joined the Methodist Episcopal Church, but afterward united with the Primitive Baptist, of which she was a consistent member for about thirty-five years. Eleven children were born to this union, ton reaching years of maturity. In 1840 the father died, leaving a family of small children, and but little property; but the mother, with characteristic determination, reared this family to be respectable and useful citizens. She died in her eightysecond year at the home of her son, Dr. James A. Ward, by whom she was well cared for. Dr. Ward was the fifth child born to his parents, his birth occurring in Lincoln County, Mo., July 20, IS 20. His early educational advantages were almost wholly wanting. After reaching years of maturity, however, he educated himself. From the age of fourteen to seventeen years, his health being bad, he was sent by his mother to West Tennessee, where he resided with a friend for nearly a year, and having recovered his health returned to his home in Missouri. He went to Wisconsin in 1845, where he followed mining, clerking, etc., returned to Troy, Mo., in 1849, and engaged as a clerk in a dry goods store, for a year or so, and then embarked in the dry goods business for himself; but being unsuccessful, he accepted a position as deputy clerk for both county and circuit courts, which position he held for over two years. He was married September 10, 1851, to Miss Virginia Hamilton, a native of Lincoln County, Mo. To this union were born two sons and a daughter. Mr. Ward commenced the study of medicine in 1853, at the same time filling the positions of deputy county and circuit clerk; attended his first course of medical lectures at the St. Louis Medical College in 1855-56; practiced medicine for a time in the interval, and graduated from that institution in 1860, and since then he has enjoyed a good practice at Troy. In 1857 he was appointed clerk of the county court, by Gov. Jackson, to fill a vacancy caused by the death of N. H. Merri wether, and held the office until after the next general election, a period of about one year. During the late war he held the office of post surgeon at Troy for most of the time, and was for some time professor of chemistry in the Troy Christian Institute. In 1868 the Doctor lost his first wife, and four years later married Miss Sarah C. Worsham, also a native of Trov. He, as well as his present wife, is a member of the Presbyterian Church, as was also his first. He is a Democrat in politics, a Mason, a member of the State Medical Association, and one of the oldest practicing physicians in this part of the State.

Alfred Weeks is the youngest of seven children, and was born in Shelby County, Ky., October 29, 1833, the son of Alfred and Clarissa (Dowdle) Weeks, who were born in Virginia and died in Kentucky and Missouri, in 1833 and 1879, respectively. The father was a teamster by occupation, and a Whig in politics. In 1851 the widow and her children came to Lincoln County, and settled near Auburn on a farm. Owing to his father's early death Alfred received but little schooling, but aided his mother on the farm. At the age of nineteen years he began the battle of life for himself and followed carpentering for about a year, but not liking the work he returned to farming and has since continued that occupation, and is now the owner of 240 acres of valuable land. He has been a hard working man all his life, and as a result has met with good success. In 1855 he was married to Martha E. Mounce, who was born in St. Louis County, Mo., February 27, 1838, and became the mother of ten children, eight of whom are living. Mr. and Mrs. Weeks are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Weeks' parents were Henry H. and Edith (Davidson) Mounce, who were natives of Kentucky and Virginia, respectively. They were married in St. Louis County, Mo., and came to Lincoln County in 1844. They were the parents of three children. The mother died in 1840, and the father married Louranie Sitton, who bore him two children. After her death he married Ann E. Downing, and by her is the father of eight children. He was a Democrat, and died in 1880.

Henry Wehrmann is the eldest of seven sons, and was born in Lippe Detmoldt, Germany, April 25, 1837, where his parents, Christian and Caroline (Drunert) Wehrmann, were also born, the former in 1796 and the latter in 1816. The father was a well-todo farmer in the old country, and sailed with his family to America in 1848, so that his sons might escape military life. He located in Warren County, Mo., and there spent the remainder of his life, dying in 1860. His widow is still living and resides on the old homestead. They were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Henry Wehrmann received a limited education in both English and German, and after remaining at home until 1864 was married to Mina Niehuss, who was born in Hanover, Germany, October 16, 1839. She came to America with her parents when about thirteen years of age, and by Mr. Wehrmann is the mother of three sons and three daughters. Mr. Wehrmann supports the principles of the Republican party, and is one of the successful farmers of the county. He owns over 800 acres of land, the most of which he has made by his own efforts. He and wife belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church.

John C. Wells is a son of Eli and Nancy (Neff) Wells, who were born on the Ohio River in West Virginia, the former in 1797, sand the latter in 1803. They made their home in that State throughout life. The father was a farmer and Whig, and died in 1854. His wife died in 1885. John C. Wells is the eldest of their twelve children. He was born November 8, 1823, and his boyhood days were spent in attending school, and assisting his parents on the farm. At the age of twenty -one he left home, and for fifteen years worked on the river, first on flat and keel boats, then as clerk on a steamer, and later as pilot on a steamer, serving in the latter capacity twelve years on the lower Mississippi. In 1851 he married Jane Home, a native of West Virginia, born September 9, 1827, and by her became the father of iiYG sons and one daughter. Thinking the farm the best place to rear his boys, he located in Lincoln County, where he became the owner of 580 acres of good land. Both he and wife are members of the Old School Presbyterian Church, and he was a Whig in politics while that party was in existence, but since that time has been a Democrat.

Benjamin W. Wheeler, judge of the probate court, was born in Lincoln County, Mo., May 12, 1847, being the son of Otis and Jane F. (Wallace) Wheeler, natives of New Hampshire and Pennsylvania, respectively. The father graduated from the West Point Military Academy in 1821, and rose to the captaincy of a company in the regular army. For about twenty years he was in the regular service. The foes with whom he had to contend were always Indians. While stationed at Jefferson Barracks he married Miss Wallace, who bore him seven children, four sons and three daughters. Resigning he came to Lincoln County, and here turned his attention to farming. He was a Democrat in politics, and died in 1871 at the age of seventy-four years. The mother is now seventy-seven years of age, and is a member of the Pres- byterian Church. He was of Scotch -Irish and she of Scotch descent. Their son, Benjamin W., was educated in the common schools, and at Wyman's City University, of St. Louis, where he attended about two years. Soon after he began to read law, and in 1869 was admitted to the bar. Three years later he was chosen prosecuting attorney for Lincoln County, holding the office two years. In 1878 he was elected to his present office, and has held this position successfully ever since. In 1873 he married Mrs. Edna Adams, and to this union were born two children, one son and one daughter. Mr. Wheeler has always been a Democrat in his political views, and is a member of the A. O. U. W. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and she of the Christian Church.

William Whiteside, retired farmer and an old and prominent settler of Lincoln County, Mo., was born in Shelby County, Ky., October 10, 1804. He is a son of Isaac Whiteside, who was born in North Carolina, and when a boy started with his older brother to Illinois, but after reaching Shelby County, Ky., Isaac refused to go farther. There he grew to manhood and married Linnie Ellis, a native of that county. Both grandfathers served in the Revolutionary War, and Grandfather Whiteside was a member of the North Carolina Legislature at the time of his death. Both Isaac Whiteside and his wife lived in Kentucky until their respective deaths. William Whiteside is the third of their four children, and when very young began to make his own way in the world, following the occupation of distilling. In 1828 he came to Missouri and located in Lincoln County, where he became the owner of about 1,400 acres of land - -the result of his own industry and economy. He was a Whig in politics, but since the war has supported the Democratic party. The town of Whiteside was built on his land and was named in his honor. In 1829 he was married to Eliza A. Bobinson, who was born in Shelby County, Ky., in 1810, and died in Missouri in 1856, having borne eleven children. Mr. Whiteside's second wife was Mrs. Sallie A. (Carr) Metcalf, also a native of Shelby County, Ky., born in 1816. She was the mother of six children by her first husband. His son, Isaac, was born in Lincoln County, January 21, 1832, and was educated in the early subscription schools. He was married in 1854 to Mary, daughter of Capt. John and Mary Ann Alloway, who were born in Shelby County, Ky., and came to Lincoln County in 1837, when Mrs. Whiteside was four years of age. Mrs. Whiteside is the mother of five living children: William, John, an attorney; Annie, wife of James W. Powell; Luella and Mary. Since 1856 Mr. Whiteside has lived on the old Capt. Alloway farm, which consists of 440 acres, all of which he has earned by his own endeavors. In the winter of 1861-62 he served six months under Gen. Price, and since the late war has been a Democrat in politics. He has been a member of the Masonic fraternity for twenty years (New Hope Lodge No. 199), and he and wife have been consistent members of the Baptist Church for forty years. His son Eugene, who died in March, 1880, at the age of twenty-one years, was a licensed Baptist minister with a bright future before him. He was preparing to enter William Jewell College at the time of his death.

George W. Whiteside, farmer, stock raiser, and a native of Lincoln County, was born December 12, 1843, and is the son of William and Eliza (Robertson) Whiteside. His early education was obtained under many difficulties, and when quite small he was compelled to walk three miles to school. He made his parents' house his home until 1864, when he enlisted in Shelby's brigade, under Sterling Price, and served until the close of the war, when he went to Mexico, and after a residence there of eighteen months went to California, where he herded sheep and farmed. In 1868 he returned home via the Isthmus of Panama and New York, and since then has been a successful agriculturist of Lincoln County, where he has a fine farm of 315 acres. His wife, who was formerly Mildred A. Baskett and a daughter of Judge H. N. Baskett, was born in Lincoln County, September 29, 1847. They were married in 1870 and became the parents of six children, four sons and two daughters. They worship in the Missionary Baptist Church, and Mr. Whiteside belongs to the Knights of Honor fraternity.

John F. Whiteside was born near Whiteside, Mo., June 26, 1849, and is a son of William and Eliza (Robertson) Whiteside. [See sketch of George W. Whiteside.] John F. was reared on his father's farm, but owing to ill health in boyhood attended school somewhat irregularly, though as his health gradually improved he attended school after becoming grown. He has made farming his chief calling through life, and has a fertile and well improved farm of 315 acres. In 1873 he was married to Ruth C. Metcalf, a native of St. Charles County, who died in 1882, having borne three daughters. Two years after her death Mr. Whiteside married Mrs. Susan F. Mendleton, a sister of his first wife. He and wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church, and he is a supporter of Democratic principles and is a member of the Knights of Honor fraternity.

James C. Wilkinson was born near Elsberry, Mo., in 1846. His parents, Joseph and Gabrilla (Watts) Wilkinson, were born in Tennessee (he in 1818 and she in 1816), and became early residents of Missouri, where they were married in 1844. The father died near Elsberry in 1867, and the mother in 1880. Mr. Wilkinson's father, familiarly known as "Uncle Jimmy Wilkinson," was a soldier in the War of 1812, and was one of the early and prominent settlers of Lincoln County; he died about 1856. His wife died only a few years ago. James C. Wilkinson was the elder of two brothers, and was educated in the common schools, remaining at home until 1866, when he was married to Nancy Elizabeth, daughter of Robert T. and Julia Elsberry, whose sketch appears in this volume. Mr. and Mrs. Wilkinson have eight children: Joseph R., Bellezora, Udora, John M., Gabrilla A., James A., Laura Viola and Hettie Temperance. Immediately after his marriage Mr. Wilkinson went in debt for a piece of timber land, but has been very successful in the management of his business affairs, and is now the owner of 248 acres of fertile and well cultivated land. He was in the mercantile business for some time at Elsberry, in partnership with Mr. Elsberry, the firm being known as Elsberry & Wilkinson, and was afterward partner in the erection of the flouring-mill at that place. Since then he has devoted his attention to farming and trading. In November, 1887, a fine large residence and contents, the accumulations of almost a life-time, were consumed by fire. Mr. Wilkinson is a very public-spirited man, and in his political views is a Democrat. He belongs to the A. O. U. W. and the Triple Alliance, and he, wife and two daughters are members of the Baptist Church. [Since the above sketch was written, Mr. Wilkinson was taken sick on the 20th day of July, 1888, with abscess of the brain, and notwithstanding the efforts and skill of the best medical aid, after four weeks of terrible suffering, he died August 11, following.]

Robert S. Williams (deceased) was born near Pittsburgh, Penn., in 1811, and there grew to manhood on a farm. He married Isabella Seville, daughter of John and Isabella (Gale) Saville. Her father was born near Manchester, England, and was of Spanish descent. Her mother was born in London, and was of thorough English stock. Mrs. Williams was born in Manchester, England, October 23, 1820, and when six years of age came with her parents to America, locating in Philadelphia, where her mother ran a large millinery establishment. In 1838 her parents moved near Pittsburgh, Penn., and there died at the age of seventy-five and eighty-two, respectively. After marriage Mr. Williams settled upon a farm, and for about sixteen years kept a public house. In 1868 they moved to Lincoln County, Mo., purchased a farm, and here he followed agricultural pursuits, being considered one of the neatest farmers in the county. He was a man upright in his dealings, one beloved at home, and esteemed by all who knew him. He was of the Episcopal faith, as is also his wife. He was Democratic in his political views, and, although a man who never sought office, he was twice elected to the position of county auditor. He was well educated and fond of reading. He died in 1881. His widow still lives, and is well provided for. To their marriage were born three children, two now living : Charles, and Maria, who is the wife of William Noel, of Southwest Missouri. Charles, the only son, was born August 16, 1848, in Alleghany County, Penn., where he grew up and secured a good common school education. In 1867 he moved to Lincoln County, Mo., and has made the same his home ever since. In 1879 he married Miss Addie W. Tuttle, daughter of Rev. J. H. Tuttle. By her one child was born, who is now deceased. She, too, passed away in 1886. Mr. Williams is a Democrat in politics, and is a highly respected citizen. He owns a farm of 277 acres, of which about 160 acres are under cultivation. June 24, 1888, he married Miss Sarah E. Crigger, of Lincoln County.

John C. Williams, merchant and farmer, is a son of Nathaniel and Nancy (Cross) Williams, who were born in Kentucky and Virginia, respectively. They were married in the latter State, and about 1820 came to Missouri, locating in Lincoln County, where they spent the remainder of their lives. He died at the age of sixty-one years, and she when sixty-three years old. Both were members of the Regular Baptist Church, and he was a Whig in politics and a farmer by occupation. John C. Williams is the second of their ten children, and was born in Logan County, Ky., May 29, 1818, but was reared on a farm in Mo., and educated in the old subscription schools. After attaining his majority he learned the cabinet-maker's trade, and also manufactured furniture, pieces of which he still has in his house. In addition to this he carried on farming, and in 1845 was married to Margaret Cox, a daughter of John B. Cox. She was born in Lin coin County, and became the mother of nine children. She died in 1870, and three years later he married Margaret L. Kimler, a daughter of Daniel Kimler. She was born in Loudoun County, Va., October 1, 1825. In 1850 Mr. Williams located on his present farm of 240 acres, and in addition to farming follows merchandising. He engaged in the latter business in 1877 at Corso, and when the post-office was established at that place he became its postmaster. Since the death of the Whig party he has been a Democrat. He has been a resident of the county for about sixty-seven years, and is one of its highly respected citizens.

Romulus Williams is a son of Alexander H. and Lydia A. (Sanford) Williams. He was born in Lincoln County about one mile from where he now lives December 20, 1831. He was reared on a farm, and at the age of six years started to school, riding a distance of five miles. After remaining with his father until he attained his majority he began farming for himself, and in 1853 located on the farm where he now lives. He was married at that date to Margaret Ellis, a daughter of Duncan Ellis. She was born in Kentucky September 19, 1836, and when a small girl came with her parents to Lincoln County. She died January 27, 1873, leaving three sons and six daughters. She was a consistent member of the Missionary Baptist Church, and a faith- ful wife and mother. Mr. Williams lias a fine farm of 170 acres, the most of which he has made by industry and good management. Previous to the war he was a Whig in politics, but since that time has been a Democrat.

Benjamin R. Williams, farmer and stock raiser, is a son of Alexander H. and Ann (Robinson) Williams, and was born in Union Township, Lincoln County Mo., September 21, 1850. He spent the happy and healthful life of a farmer's boy, and was educated in the district schools and at Auburn. He made his home with his parents until September 17, 1867, when he was united in marriage to Margaret E. Mounce, a daughter of Henry H. and Ann E. (Downing) Mounce. She was born in Lincoln County, lier birth occurring August 18, 1852. She and Mr. Williams became the parents of four children, three sons and one daughter. Three of the children are living: Walter E. (a telegraph operator), Alexander H. and Benjamin. Soon after marriage Mr. Williams settled on a farm, and is now the owner of 400 acres of land. Both he and wTife are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and he is a Democrat in his political views, and a worthy and honored citizen.

James M. Wilson is a son of John and Mary (Miller) Wilson, who were born in Mecklenburg County, N. C, but were reared in Lincoln County, Va. There they were married and lived until 1818, when they came to Lincoln County, Mo., and settled on the farm where their son, James M., now lives. The father was a wagon-maker by trade, and took an active part in the war of 1812. He was always a Democrat in politics and died in his eighty-fifth year. The mother lived to be seventy-two years of age. Only two of their four children are living, the younger being James M., who was born March 19, 1822, within half a mile of where he now lives. Margaret Hill, who was born in Mecklenburg County, Va., January 14, 1823, became his wife in 1841 and the mother of his twelve children, seven of whom are living. His wife died in 1876 and since that time Mr. Wilson has remained a widower. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and in 1875 was appointed tobacco inspector for the city of St. Louis. He has been quite extensively engaged in the manufacture of tobacco, but has given most of his attention

John F. Wilson, county surveyor, was born near Lexington, Va., on the 4th of April, 1823. His father, James Wilson, was born in Ireland, and when but six years of age was brought to the United States and was reared in Virginia, where he married Miss Ann McCowen, who died in 1831, leaving five children. James Wilson then married a Miss Anderson. He was a farmer and distiller by occupation and in his political views was a Whig. His death occurred in 1855. John F. Wilson is the eldest of his father's family and was educated in the high school near home. His favorite study was mathematics, which he pursued as far as trigonometry. He became a resident of St. Louis County, Mo. in 1846, and he there farmed and acted as justice of the peace. In 1847 Elizabeth D. Lasley became his wife. She was born in the "Old Dominion," and was brought by her parents to Missouri when three years of age. They came to Lincoln County in 1855, and here the mother died in 1875. The following year Mrs. Attillia (Copher) McCulloch became his wife. His first union resulted in the birth of four sons and two daughters, and to the last union one daughter was born. Mr. Wilson affiliates with the Democratic party, and in 1872 was chosen county surveyor, which position he has filled continuously to the present time. He and wife are members of the Christian Church, and he is a Mason and a prosperous farmer of the county, owning at the present time 160 acres of land.

Thomas C. Wilson, of the firm of T. C. Wilson & Co., was born in Lincoln County, Mo., April 12, 1851, and is the son of Alexander K. and Alzira (Gibson) Wilson. The father was born in South Carolina in 1813, and at the age of five was brought to Lincoln County by his parents, who were born, reared and married in Ireland. They immigrated to America about 1806. The mother of Thomas C. was born in Lincoln County, Mo., in 1816, and her parents were natives of South Carolina. When a young man Alexander learned the blacksmith's trade, at which he worked the principal part of his life. He was justice of the peace for many years, and judge of the county court for six years. For several years he was a director of the St. Louis & Hannibal Railtd. In politics he was a Whig, and after the war he espoused the principles of the Republican party. He died in 1886, and his wife in 1888. Thomas C. was the fifth of eight children. He was educated in the common schools and in the State University, from which he graduated in 1874, having made a specialty of civil engineering, which he followed for some time, on the railroad. In 1881 he drifted into the business. In 1886 the present company was formed^ and he became a partner. During the year 1887 they got out about 400,000 ties. In 1885 he married Miss Ann Perkins, daughter of H. W. Perkins. She was born in Troy April 15, 1862, and to her marriage were born two children, a son and a daughter. The son is deceased, but the daughter, Hazel, is now living. Politically Mr. Wilson is a Republican. He has made this county his home all his life, and is a good business man and a competent engineer. He was selected as a delegate to the National Republican Convention at Chicago, from the Seventh District, as alternate, and was nominated by his party for representative of Lincoln County in 1888. Mr. Wilson, his parents, Mrs. Wilson and her parents, all were born in the month of April, a rather singular coincidence.

Judge G. G. Wilson, farmer and stock raiser, of Lincoln County, and a native of the same, was born in 1836, and is the eldest of seven children born to Roth and Diana (Gibson) Wilson, who were born in South Carolina and Tennessee in 1808 and 1814, respectively. Roth Wilson moved to St. Louis with his father, David Wilson, in 1818, and came to Lincoln County in 1820. Here he died in 1887. He was a farmer and blacksmith, and was one of the pioneer settlers of the county. Judge Wilson, whose name heads this biography, attended the early subscription schools of Missouri, and has spent his entire life on a farm. He now owns 320 acres of land, which he has earned by his own industry and economy, and, besides being an experienced farmer, is an excellent surveyor. In 1859 he was elected county surveyor, and was again elected in 1865. In 1878 he was elected judge of the county court, and was re-elected in 1880, and in 1882 was chosen presiding judge, to which position he was re-elected in 1886. He is a Democrat in his political views, and cast his first presidential vote for Buchanan in 1856. His marriage to Jane Finley took place in 1871, and their union has resulted in the birth of three children: Anna, Martha and Robert. Mrs. Wilson is a daughter of Gilmore Finley, formerly of Kentucky, but an early settler of Lincoln County.

Thomas W. Withrow, saddler and harness maker at Troy, is the son of Jacob H. and Ann (Wright) Withrow. The father was born in Pennsylvania, and was of Scotch-Irish descent. The mother was born not far from Lexington, Ky. In his youth the father learned the harness-maker's trade, came to Troy in 1836 and opened a shop. Here he married in 1839, and settled in Troy. He died at the age of fifty-five, but the mother is still living, is sixty-six years old and does her own work. The mother is an Old School Baptist, and her father was a preacher of that faith. Thomas W. Withrow was the eldest of ten children, four now living. He was born in Troy, March 20, 1840, and received a common school education. At the age of nine he began doing odd jobs in his father's shop, and ever since has been working at the business. In 1866 his father took him in as partner, and after the father's death he became sole proprietor. In 1866 he married Miss Abiah F. Merriwether, a native of Lincoln County, who bore him five children, one son and four daughters. Mr. Withrow is a stanch Democrat, as was his father before him. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and in connection with his harness business is interested in agricultural pursuits.

Hart B. Wommack, M. D., of Millwood, is the son of Richard and Elizabeth (Hammond) Wommack. The father was born in Halifax County, Va., in 1804, and when two years old was taken to Tennessee. In 1823 he came with his mother to Lincoln County, and two years later he married Miss Cynthia Smiley, who bore him three children. After her death he married, in 1831, Mrs. Elizabeth Gilmore, nee Hammond, and by her became the father of seven children, two sons and five daughters. She was a native of Kentucky but came to this State in early womanhood, and had one child by a previous marriage. She died in her sixty-fifth year. Trie father then chose for his third wife Mrs. Fanny Morris. He was a man of superior ability, and one of influence in his county. He was chosen to represent Lincoln County in .the Legislature during the following years: 1848, 1856, 1858, 1862 and I860, served as sheriff four terms, and as assessor two terms. He died in his seventy-sixth year. His son, Hart B., was born in Lincoln County, January 7. 1844, and received his literary education at the academy at Troy, Mo. Having studied medicine for three years under Drs. Bartlett and Griffith, of Louisiana, Mo., he entered the Missouri Medical College at St. Louis, from which institution he graduated in 1S65. He then came to Millwood where he has practiced since. In 18G6 he married Miss Tillie E. Whitmore, of St. Charles County, who lived about two years. In 1870 he married Elza Dyer, a native of Lincoln County, Mo., and a daughter of George I. Dyer. This union resulted in the birth of seven children, three sons and four daughters. He and wife are members of the Catholic Church, as was also his first wife. He is a Democrat in politics, and in connection with his practice he is interested in farming and is the owner of 38 S acres. He belongs to the Catholic Knights of America, and is a member of the A. O. U. W. The Doctor has been practicing medicine in this community for twenty-three years, and has had very liberal patronage and satisfactory success.

Brice H. Wommack, farmer and stock raiser, of Lincoln County, Mo., and a native of the same, was born December 4, 1851, and is a son of Kichard and Elizabeth (Hammond) Wommack. He was educated in the common schools and at Troy, and taught one term of school, but the confinement of such a life did not agree with him, and he engaged in farming. He has been very successful in this calling and owns about 600 acres of valuable land. He is a Democrat in his political views, and he and wife are worthy members of the Christian Church. In 1873 he married Hannah H., daughter of Francis B. Clare. She was born in Lincoln County, September 5, 1856, and is the mother of three children - Elizabeth, Richard F. and Roy C.

Shapleigh R. Woolfolk, one of the oldest residents of Troy now living, is the son of John A. and Elizabeth (Ross) Woolfolk, both natives of Kentucky. When young both came to Missouri, were married here in St. Charles County, and soon after moved to Lincoln County. The father was an extensive contractor and builder, being one of the contractors of the Lunatic Asylum at

Fulton, and the Christian College at Canton. He was an old line Whig in politics, and he and wife were both zealous workers in the Presbyterian Church. Their family consisted of twelve children, Shapleigh being the second. He was born June 23, 1825. was reared on a farm and educated in the log school -house of early times and at Troy. At the age of fourteen he began clerking in his father's store, and after reaching years of discretion lie took an interest in his father's store and ran it for several years. In 1866 he was elected sheriff and collector, holding the same until 1870. Previous to this he was county treasurer about four or five years. For about five years he has been connected with D. Dubach & Co., lumber firm. In 1855 he married Miss Susan C. Bragg, a native of Virginia. The fruit of this union was four children, three now living, and all daughters. In connection with the lumber business Mr. Woolfolk is also interested in farming. In politics he was a Whig before the war and a Democrat afterward. Both he and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, he being an elder of the same.