McDonald County, Missouri - Biographical sketches, 1897

Biographical sketches

A. A. Adams, familiarily known as Allen, is a son of Jeff and Mary E. Adams, who for many years were familiar citizens of Buffalo township. He was born in Texas, January 17, 1884. In 1867 his parents came to this county and located on the Sugar Fork of Buffalo creek. His mother died in 1888, his father in 1894. He and Miss Ada L. Hayes were united in marriage August 11, 1889. She bore him three children, all of whom are now living. She died November 20, 1894. Mr. Adams was reared on his father's farm, and attended the district schools what time he could be spared from the farm duties. He followed that occupation until October 1895, when he bought a half interest in the Coy Mills, since which time he has been interested in that business, being now located at Tiff City. He has given his attention to the various details of the business imtil he has become almost as familiar with the millins: business as the farm

Andrew D. Anderson, of McMillin township, son of Robert and Hester Anderson, was born in Barry county, Missouri September 3, 1840. Five years later his parents moved to this county and settled what is now the Schmidt farm, since which time the object of this sketch has principally been a resident of this county. He enlisted August 2, 1862, in Co. H. Sixth Kansas Cavalry, Volunteers and served until June 22, 1865. The last ten months of the war he was held a prisoner at Tyler, Texas. He was first married December 7, 1865, to Rachel L. Mizer of Tennessee. To them were born seven children after which she died. Mr. Anderson and Mrs. Malinda C. Hamilton, a widow with three children, were married September 28, 1880, To them another seven children were born. He at first joined the Baptist church but afterwards withdrew and joined the North Methodist of which denomination he was for many years a local preacher. His present widow, after her marriage with Mr. Anderson, also withdrew from the Baptist and joined the church to which he belonged. He was a prosperous farmer and at the time of his death, November 1895, owned a farm of over 200 acres.

He lived an exemplary life, highly respected by all who knew him and greatly beloved by his wife and children to whom he had ever been a kind husband and father.

Robert Anderson, was born in Grayson county, Virginia, February 1, 1831. Here he lived until he was about 18 years old, when he went to Tennessee, and from there to this county in 1861. One of the first scenes he remembered of seeing after reaching this county was the holding of court on a big flat rock at the forks of the two Sugar creeks. He was first married to Nancy Testerman, of Ash county, North Carolina in 1848. 4iter bearing seven children four of whom are still living she died and was buried at Beaver Springs cemetery. He served in the quarter master's department one year under Gen. Price. Mr. Anderson has been appointed post master four different times and served in all about twenty years, holding the position at Erie, Baladan, and Anderson. He established the latter office in 1887, and the town incidentally bears his name. He was justice of the peace four years at Erie and Indian Springs. By occupation he is a merchant and mechanic, having sold goods for upwards of twenty years, and has built 21 houses in this county.

clerk, is one of the most prominent men of McDonald county. He is a son of Judge Hiram Baker, and was born in Wayne county this State in 1846. His parents came to this county in 1853, where the object of this sketch was principally reared. He received a fair education in the common schools, mostly in Camden county, where they went during a portion of the war. He was especially efficient in figures and penmanship. He was married in 1879, and they have seven children, all living. Mr. Baker, or Zach as every body calls him, has been nominated by the Republicans and Independents several times, and came within a few votes of being elected when the opposition had some 300 majority. In 1886 he was elected county assessor, which office he filled with credit, and his work received the approval of the Democratic county officials. In 1894 he was elected to the office which he now holds. By occupation he is a farmer and knows what hard work is. He is a minister in the Christian church, and seems to be a great favorite with the young couples who are matrimonially inclined.

A. H. Barlow, one of the oldest and most respected citizens of this county, was born near Raleigh, North Carolina, in 1818. Where he was quite a small boy his parents moved to Tennessee, where they died. He came to Neosho in 1.841, and has lived in Newton and McDonald counties ever since. He received his education at home, studying at night by light of pine knots. He married Elizabeth Gibson in Tennessee, they had twelve children, four of whom are dead. Of the living, two are in Colorado, two in the Chocktaw Nation, one in Kansas, one at Neosho one at Stella, and one near Miami, I. T. Some years after the death ot his first wife he married the widow Michael of Newton county. They have three children all living. One at Anderson, one in Ark. and one in Colorado. Mr. Barlow was originally a Whig, and says he sticks to it yet, but voted for Bryan last fall. He has been a carpenter, cabinet maker and mill wright. During the war he lived on a small farm near Neosho most of the time, but finally went to Neosho and followed the Union army. During the war his house and fences were all burnt, but they caught from the forest fires. He says the Rebels treated him well and he never had an enemy in his life.

Samuel D. Best was born January 3, 1829, in Lincoln county, North Carolina. His parents moved to Tennessee when he was but 18 months old, where he was brought up. He was first married in Blunt county, Tenn., in 1851, and has 15 children, 13 of whom are still living. He is now living with his second wife to whom he was married in the north part of this state a few years ago. In early life he attended school at Perry ville, Tenn., where he acquired his education. Mr. Best has quite an interesting war record, having served three years under Stanley and Sheridan. He was in many battles, among which were Perryville, Nashville, Murf eesborough and Knoxville. . He was First Lieutenant, Co. D., Second Tenn. Cavalry; was wounded near Murfeesborough in March, 1863, and some time later resigned on account of disability. Mr. Best is a farmer by occupation, and owns a comfortable home on the Pine ville and Indian Springs road.

James H. Cowan, son of David and Matilda Cowan, was born in Barton county, Alabama, Dec. 24, 1840. His parents moved to Tenn. and from there to Missouri in 1853, and settled where the object of this sketch now lives, on Big Sugar creek near Cyclone. He attended school at the Love school house in Elk Horn township. In 1872 he was united in marriage with Miss Hannah Phillips, but she died two weeks later. The next year he married her sister Mary. She lived twelve years and bore five children, three of whom are living - Nancy (Cook), Marcus Andrew, and David C, all in this county. Mr. Cowan is a farmer by occupation, a staunch Republican in politics, and for fifteen years has been a member of the Missionary

Baptist Church. He enlisted in Co. M. Sixth Mo. Cavalry September 1, 1861; again i n Fifteenth Mo. Cav. Nov. 1, 1863. He served as Corporal for some time, and was elected Lieutenant, but the war closed before his commission came.

D. S. Elliff, was born in McDonald county, Missouri, March 11, 1867, and has lived here all his life. He received a good education in the district schools and when quite a young man, taught three terms, but he prefered the life of a farmer and has followed that occupation since. July 19, 1888, he and Miss Nettie B. Elliott, daughter of Judge Elliott of this county, were united in marriage. They have had three children - Inez, Monroe and Goldie. Inez died February 21, 1897, at the age of seven years. When but eighteen years of age Mr. Elliff united with the Baptist church of which he has ever since been a consistent member. He was lecturer of the Farmer's Alliance of this county for two years. He has been a leading member of the Populist party for many years, and his integrity and hard work were rewarded after the campaign of 1897 by the appointment to a lucrative rx>sition in the House of Representatives, 39, General Assembly. At the present time he is a member of the Populist Congressional and State Executive Committees.

T. C. Gtebreath, son of John and Mary Gilbreath, was born in LaPorte county, Indiana, in 1846. In 1852 his parents moved to Iowa and from there to Harrison county Missouri in 1855. When the war broke out they went to Des Moines, Iowa where he attended school. He was married in Newton county, Mo. May 8, 1870, to Miss R. M. Mickens, formerly of Story county, Iowa. They have had six children, five of whom are living. He came to McDonald county in 1893 from Jasper county, where he had lived for several years. He operated a saw mill first on Big Sugar, then near Pine ville, where he did a thriving business. He sold his mill and tried farming awhile, but afterwards resumed his former occupation, and is apparently master of the art. In 1896 he was elected justice of the peace of Anderson township which position he fills with credit. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and Encampment of O. P. Politically he is a Greenbacker.

J. Turner Horner, son of Dr. John T. and Mary Horner, was born July 26, 1866, in Webster county, Missouri. When he was but six weeks old his parents moved to Barry county, where Mr. Horner spent his boyhood and youth. He received a good education at Cassville, and began teaching at the age of twenty years. He soon became one of the leading teachers of

Barry county, and was several times teacher of some of the best schools in that county, and was principal of the Purdy school in 1889. January 1, 1888 he was united in marriage with Miss Mattie Jessee of Cassville, Missouri. They have three children, two girls and one boy. In 1889 he moved to McDonald county to take charge of the Pineville school of which he was principal that year and the next. He was again elected to the same position for the term of 1896-7, all of which he tilled with credit. In the campaign of 1894, he was a contestant before the Republican County Convention for Representative, but on being defeated, was unanimously tendered, the nomination for Presiding Judge of the County court, to which honorable and responsible position he was elected the following November. As an officer he has performed his duty ably and honestly. He now resides at Rockv Comfort where he has a comfortable home, and follows his chosen professon, that of teacher. He is elected principal of the Rocky Comfort High School for the school year 1897-98.

P. A. Horton, was born in Benton county, Arkansas, August 17, 1869. He is a son of Daniel and Sarah (Graham) Horton. His father died a short time before he was born and his mother, who re-married, lived only about a year afterwards. His mother and stepfather moved from Arkansas to Joplin where they remained a short time when they came to Mc- Donald county. Press as he is usually called was raised on Indian creek near Erie. In 1890 he and Miss Sarah Bogle were united in marriage; they have three children, all of whom are living. He has spent most of his life on a farm and hopes to some day own a good one of his own. For the past year or more he has been interested in the saw mill business. He belongs to the Democratic party with which he has voted ever since he arrived at his majority, and from which he sees no reason to change.

Harry S. Jackson, is a son of S. H. and Mary Jackson, formerly of Tennessee, but now citizens of this county. Harry was born in Neosho, Missouri, June, 1873, consequently is still a young man. He attended the public schools at Neosho until the year 1887, when with his parents he came to McDonald county and located at Caverna. By improving his time in school he secured a good business education, which he has since improved by practical use and by a general course of useful and instructive reading, so that now he is counted as one of the best posted young men of the county. He was put to work in the mill at Caverna some years ago and thoroughly learned the business. He now has charge of the mill and is making a success of the enterprise, which is due to his good management and courteous treatment of all with whom he deals. The probabilities are that in the years to come he will rise to distinction among our people.

S. T. Lane: Another of the pioneers of this county is the gentleman whose name stands at the head of this sketch. He was born in Green county, this state, October 28, 1843. His birth place is now the historic Springfield battle ground. His parents, Samuel and Frances Marion (Robinson) Lane, came to McDonald county in 1845. He married Miss Isabel C. Kincannon, of Washington county, Arkansas. They have no children. Mr. Lane enlisted for the war in the 1st Missouri Confederate Artillery, where he held the position of bugler. He was in the battles at Carthage, Pea Ridge, Prairie Grove, Helena, Jenkins Perry, and other smaller engagements. He joined the M. E. Church, South, in 1890, his wife having become a member of that church several years before, and both are living consistent Christian lives. He has been a farmer and carpenter by occupation and politically a life- long Democrat. For many years he lived on his farm on Patterson creek, but is now a resident of Tiff City, where he h? s a comfortable home and, with his estimable lady is enjoying the blessings of life.

Martin L. Marks, son of Aaron and Emmaline Marrs. was born in Washington county, Arkansas. August 18, 1855. He remained in the land of his birth until some years after he was grown to manhood coming to this county in 1885. He attended school at Vina Grove Seminary Arkansas where h e gained an education that renders him tit for the responsible county office which he now tills. On the 7. day of September, 188 he and Miss Elizabeth Bunch, also of Washington countv. Arkansas, were married. Their union has been blessed with tive children, all of whom are living. Mr. Marrs was nominated on the Democratic ticket in 1896 for county assessor and was elected by a large majority. With the exception of a short time in the mercantile business at Jane, he has been a life-long farmer, and after his term of office he expects to return to his chosen occupation.

M. E. Meador. of Anderson, is a son of Martin and Sarah Meador who settled in this countv in the earlv da vs. He was born in this countv Februrarv 28. 1859 and has alwavs lived here. He attended the district school at Beaver Springs near where his father lived. Id 1880 he was married to Miss Marv Anderso also of this county. After bearing six child" five of whom are living, she died May 1. 1 When the rail road was built through county it passed over a piece of his land, and wiih an eve to business, he at once laid it out in town lots. He has ever since been one of the principal men in building up the town of Anderson, and much of : - has been due to his work and influence. Mr. Meador is at present engaged in running a saw mill and liverv stable. He is one of the stand-by's in the Republican party, having never wavered from that faith.

J. P. Madden, one of the best known citizens of this county, was born in Warrick county Indiana March 29, 1838. He remained in his native state until in middle life where he held several positions of honor and trust. He was educated at a private school and followed the avocation of teacher for several vears. He was Township Trustee, and assessor, also constable and deputy sheriff. In 1>?75 he moved from Indiana to Kansas and from there came to this county inl878. Since living here he has worked at a saw mill for some time, then handled timber at Anderson and now keeps a hotel there. He, at present devotes much of his time canvassing for cemetery marble work. He filled the ofiice of county assessor on the Democraticticket for two term-. 188! 3. and proved to be an honest servant of the people. He first married Miss Mary E. Hedges, of Warrick

John L. Montgomery, was born on Red River, Texas, June 28, 1848. He is a son of Jos. B. and Martha Montgomery, for many years a prominent family of this county. In 1850 his parents left Texas and located near Fayettville Arkansas. In 1863 they came to Missouri, and located in this county in 1867. John L. was married to Miss Hassie Hyatt of Newton county in 1868. They had two children, both boys now in business in Rocky Comfort. His wife died July 15, 1890. One of his brothers served in the Union army, and his father commanded a company at the battle of Pea Ridge under Gen. Price. He is a member of the Christian Church, and in politics has always been a staunch Republican. For many years he was in the mercantile business at Rocky Comfort, but a couple of years ago withdrew from that business and now devotes his time to his farm where he has an elegant home.

W. H. Noel, was born August 27, 1846, in Casey county Kentucky. His parents, B. S. and Nancy Noel, moved to McDonald county, Mo. the same year, consequently the object of this sketch has lived here from infancy. August 1, 1864 he joined the 2nd Cherokee regiment,

Confederate Volunteers and served to the close of the war. Was in several skirmishes in Missouri and Arkansas, and in one or two pretty severe engagements. November 20, 1867, he was united in marriage with Miss Nannie Huffman, of Collins county, Texas. To them have been born ten children, seven of whom are still living. Before their marriage both had united with the Baptist church of which they have been consistent members for some thirty years. Mr.. Noel was deputy sheriff five years; 1887-1892. In 1892 he was elected assessor, and re-elected in 1894, being the only Democrat elected on the county ticket that year. He is now (1897) deputy assessor.

John W. Nutting, son of George and Margaret Nutting, was born in this county, January 6, 1847. He lived at the home of his parents on Buffalo creek until August, 1862, at which time he enlisted in the Confederate army, Sixteenth Missouri Cavalry, bat in a short time they were dismounted and became Infantry. He was in the battles at Helena, Pleasant Hill and Saline River, besides numerous minor engagements. His discretion of their advance on Helena, the attack repusle and retreat sounds like a romance. He surrendered at the close of the war at Shrevesport, La. In 1869 he was married to Miss Margaret Raba a native of Knox county,

Term. They have seven children all living. He is a member of the Baptist church, a farmer, and a life-long Democrat. In 1888 he was elected county judge for the western district, and reelected in 1888, serving four years. His ability as an officer is tersely expressed in the appellation given him as "The watch dog of the county treasury.

R. W. Patterson was born in Buncomb county, North Carolina, November 29, 1857. His parents came to McDonald county in 1871. On the 31, day of March, 1878 he and Miss Sarah E. Click of this county were united in marriage. They have four children, Clara A., Effie, Stella and Alfred. In politics he has always been a Democrat, and for the past twenty-three years has been a member of the Baptist church. He has been engaged in farming most of his life and owns a good farm near Anderson, but the last five or six years has been clerking in a store at that place. He was deputy assessor two years under Chapman and four years under Madden. Was justice of the peace four years 1892-6 and for the last six years has been a notary public. His business qualifications are first class and his genial manners and fair dealings contribute much to the success of the firm with which he is connected.

H. C. Prater was born in Kentucky February 2nd 1851 . In 1855 his parents settled in Johnson county, this state, and in 1865 came to McDonald county. In 1870 to 1874 the object of this sketch spent in California, but with this exception has lived in this county. On the 17th day of February, 1876 he was married to Miss Sarah J. Kenney. They have nine children living. He served as Justice of the Peace in Pinevile township six years, and in 1892 was a candidate for the office of Collector, being defeated by 80 votes. In 1894 the Republicans again nominated him and he was elected by a plurality of 126. Mr. Prater has always borne a reputation as a competent business man, and strictly honest in his transactions. He is a member of the Methodist church. One of the grandest things that he will ever have to think of is that for many years while poor himself, and burdened with a large family, he took care of his old father and mother without ever a thought or hope of reward. He has a good farm on Indian creek near Lanagan where he has been living the past four years.

J. H. Qualls. The object of this sketch was born in Madison county, Askansas, March 11, 1860. His parents moved to Christian count}7 Mo., during the war, then back to Arkansas. Went to Colorado in 1876 and came to McDonald county in 1879, since which time Mr. Quails has been a permanent resident. June 20, 1886 he and Miss N. C. Lewis, of this county, were united in marriage. They have three children; Rosa E. eight years of age, Bertie M. five years, Samuel B. one year old. He and his wife united with the Missionary Baptist church about seven years ago. He is now publishing the Tiff City News, a nice, clean paper that is a credit to both Mr. Quails and the community in which it is located. His first venture in the newspaper business was at Anderson, in 1893, when the Messenger was established. Since that time he has been connected with two other papers. He is a member of the Populist party, and during the campaign of 1894 was chairman of the county central committee of that party.

G. M. D. Seabourn, son of Bradford and Catherine (Campbell) Seabourn, was born in Bradley county, East Tennessee, June 3, 1845. He came with his parents to McDonald county in 1858. He was first married in 1862 to Miss Missouri Anderson, sister of A. D. Anderson, late of this county. By her three children have been born. Some years after her death he married Miss Sarah Eden by whom he has four children living. He was never in the regular army, but served for a time in the state malitia. He wras in the fight at Neosho with General Shelby by whose men he was captured and released on parole. The entire family were strongly Union and had to leave this county in 1862, at which time they went to Lawrence county returning in 1S66. His father served over two years in the 6th Kansas Cavalry. Mr. Seabourn does not belong to any church, has never held a public office and is a farmer by occupation. He owns a good farm, is in comfortable circumstances, comes of a good family and is highly respected by all who know him.

William K. Wilson, son of Levi and Elizabeth Wilson, was born in Jackson county, Tennessee, November 4, 1841. His youth was spent in the land of his birth, and on the 21st day of March, 1861 he was united in marriage with Miss Lena A. Clark. During the war they were compelled to "refugee" to Kentucky being loyal people. Mr. Wilson joined the First Tenn. mounted Infantry in 1864 and served until the close of the war, being most of the time in the mountains of his native state. In 1868 he and his wife both joined the Christian church of which they are still consistent members. In 1871 they moved to Illinois, and in 1877 to this county. He improved a nice place near the Roark school house, and while there served as district clerk several years. He is now making another comfortable home near Coy. They have been blessed with nine children,

T. H. Wimpey. Almost every body in the west part of the county knows Tom Wimpey, the genial miller of Tiff City. He wTas born in McDonald county June 27, 1854, and has spent most of his life in the land of his birth. His father, Joshua Wimpey, died in 1867. His mother, Rachel Wimpey, is still living. In 1869 the family moved to Arkansas, but returned to this county after an absence of three years. March 25, 1877, he and Miss Arizona Hutchison were united in marriage. They have seven children, all living, Sarah L. who is married to Lafe Hamilton, A. C, Plaudy, Lula, Mattie, Stella and Jessie. He was brought up on a farm, but went into the goods business at Twin Springs when that town first sprung up. He went to Coy about 1882 where he dealt in goods a while, then went into the Coy mill. While at this place he was post master some nine or ten years. Last year the mill was moved to Tiff City where it is now in operation, Mr. Wimpey being the miller and general manager. He is a consistent member of the Baptist church.

C. E. Davis, son of W. R. and E. E. Davis, was born in the City of Cincinnati in 1 870. When he was about seven years of age his parents moved to Joplin, this state, where they resided some ten years. During their residence in Jtolin they made several trips back to their native place, and came to this county occasionally. Mr. Davis being in poor health the changes were made in hopes of effecting his recovery. He died in 1882. Clarence attended the public schools at Joplin where he obtained a good business education, With his mother, he came to McDonald county about ten years ago and settled on a farm near Noel. This he cultivated until the town of Noel began to be a place of note, when he went there and took charge of the City Hotel. He keeps an excellent house, and has done a business that is surprising for a town no larger than Noel. He, also, has a good livery stable and runs the Noel & Southwest City mail and hack line. In 1890 he was married to Miss Neta Farmer, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Farmer, of Pineville. They have two children.

Edwin Tyler Doty, was born in Cayuga county, New York, December 4, 1844. At the age of 15 years he moved to the state of Michigan. When the war broke out he enlisted in Fourth Michigan Infantry and served until his time expired. After the war he entered the college at Ann Arbor, Michigan and graduated in the Medical department in March, 1870. In 1883 he came to Southwest Missouri, residing in Mc-

Donald county two years, and in Joplin over seven years. He then located at Anderson, December, 1892, and embarked in the drug business in connection with the practice of medicine. During Cleveland's second term Mrs. Doty was postmaster at Anderson, and every one speaks well of her management of that office. The doctor enjoys a good practice, has a good trade in the store and he and his lady stand high in the estimation of the people.

A. W. Noel

The gentleman whose name stands at the head of this sketch was born in this county April 10, 1868. He is a son of C. W. and F. M. Noel of Elk River township. Being reared on a farm he followed that occupation, attending the district schools until early manhood when he went to Warrensburg school and, also, took a term in the Business College at Kansas City. Soon after returning from school he secured a position as clerk and book keeper for M. N. LaMance, where he remained some four years. By this time, having saved his earnings, he bought a small stock of hardware and went into business on his own account. In May, 1893, he took charge of the post office at Pineville, to which position he had been appointed by President Cleveland. He administered the affairs of the office four years to the satisfaction of the public and with credit to himself and the party which he represented. April 18, 1897, he was united in matrimony with Miss Grace Yonce, one of the most wrorthy and highly esteemed

By natural ability, attention to business and good management, he has built up one of the most lucrative mercantile establishments in the county. Mr. Noel is entitled to much credit for his success in life, having gained it by his own efforts. He is a man of good morals, genteel in his manners and a credit to the community.

A. U. Chase

Dr. A. U. Chase of Tiff City is one of our leading physicians who at the age of 30 years, has established a practice that often taxes his strength to the utmost. He has excellent success with his patients, and his agreable manners, and regard for the feelings of others make him a general favorite with the people. He is a son of John R. and Fannie Chase, of Newton county. He was born in Ray county, this state, August 10, 1867. When he was two years old his parents came to Newton county. He obtained a fair education in the common schools, availing himself of every opportunity to gain knowledge. In 18-17 he came to Tiff City and began the study of medicine with Dr. A. J. McKinney, finishing up his course at Marion Sims College of Medicine, St. Louis. He and Miss Mary Keenan, a daughter of the late Peter Keenan of this county were married, in 1691. They have three children. They have an ellegant home at Tiff City on a portion of the old Cummings farm, where he and his estimable wife are enjoying the comforts of life and reaping the rewards of a. well, merited and successful career.

R. E. Vermillion was born in Lawrence , county, Mo., in 1855. HiswTife, Fannie Mills, was born in the same county in 1859. They wrere acquainted wThile children and, in July 1875, when he was twenty and she sixteen years of age, wrere married. Mr. Vermillion soon afterward entered a drug store, and in the spring of 1878 located at Opolis, Kansas. He was in business there until 1885 at which time he accepted a position in the drug store of Caffee & Co., at Carthage. A year later he was employed by H. Dustin of Southwest City. The same year Mrs. Vermillion opened up a Millinery store there, and for ten years this worthy couple were prominent figures in the business and social circles . of that enterprising place. He continued as general manager of the Dustin drug store until October, 1895, when he again went into business of his own. He died January 15, 1896, after a couple days illness from pneumonia complicated with heart trouble to which he had been subject for some years. Mrs. Vermillion is still carrying on her millinery business at Southwest City. They have but one child, Maud, aged thirteen.

Hugh Dabbs

With some individuals the Battle of Life seems but a series of brilliant victories, and such has been the career of our former citizen, Hugh Dabbs. While he was born in Madison county, Arkansas, he has lived from early childhood in this county. His father died when Hugh was four years old, and left his wife, Susan Dabbs, with a large family of small children. They lived near Rocky Comfort, and Hugh spent his boyhood days helping to clear out a farm on the flat woods. He was always studious, and as soon as he could procure a certificate, began teaching school. He saved his money and took a course of study in the academy at Corsicana, Barry county. In 1890 he graduated from the* Law department of the State University at Columbia, and began the practice that year at Pineville. He held the highest grade in his class at the University, and wrote the Prize Thesis. That fall he was elected prosecuting attorney, which office he held four 3-ears. He rapidly rose to distinction in his profession and now, at the age of thirty- two, ranks among the leading lawyers of Newton County. He located at Neosho in 1895, where he has an elegantly furnished office, a fine library, and is doin.a- a large practice.

H. B. Bosserman, son of Jacob and Eve (Hanger) Bosserman, was born in Augusta county, Virginia, January 5, 1841. His parents lived and died in that state. When the war came np, Mr. Bosserman lived where the active scenes of the great conflict was going on. He enlisted in 25th Virginia Infantry and served two months when he was taken prisoner at the battle of Rich Mountain. He was paroled by Gen. Mc- Clelland, and exchanged that fall. Those were times when much of the supplies for the people were made at home, and the looms and spinning wheels were brought into use. Mr. Bosserman wTas a very fine mechanic, and the time of his exchange was sick for some time. As soon as his health would permit, he started to join his regiment. But he was well acquainted with the leading men of his part of the state who knew his skill as a workman, and they vouched for his good conduct and loyalty to the Confederacy and he was permitted to remain at home the rest of the war, making spinning, wheels, looms, and other necessary articles. In 1869 he and Miss Lucretia M. Ludwick were united in wedlock. They have one child dead, and two living; Eugenia (Hargrove) and Emmett Guy. He left Virginia in 1872, went to Texas, then to Illinois, and came to McDonald county in 1889. He owns a fine mill near Pineville with which he is doing a good business.

J. L. Carnell, for several years an honored citizen of this county was born in Virginia March 13, 1833. His wife, Mrs. E. J. Carnell, was born in Kentucky November 23, 1835. They were married in Cass county, Missouri from which place they moved to Texas then went to Benton county, Arkansas and from that place to McDonald county. They had ten children, nine of whom are still living. Among them is the object of this sketch.

in marriage. There union has been blessed with one child, Hazle B. now aged two years. Mr. Carnell was reared on a farm which occupation he followed until a couple of years ago, since which time he has been running a saw mill. Being a man of energy and industry he is making a success of his business, and is manufacturing and selling a large amount of lumber. Politically he is a Democrat, having been brought up in that faith, but his adherence to the party would never induce him to forget a personal favor or one who had befriended him.

ETUE, Peter D. - Born in Perth county, Ontario, June 29, 1846. Educated in the common schools until 14 years of age, when he entered the office of the Mitchell Advocate to learn the art of printing. At the age of 16 ran away from home and went to Buffalo, N. Y. where he enlisted in the 14th N. Y. Cavalry, serving until April 24, 1866. After a few months at home in Canada, returned to the U. S. and became a citizen at Flint, Michigan in 1868. Removed to St. Louis in 1869, working on the old St. Louis Republican, and various job printing offices until 1871, when he became connected with the Kansas City Times. Established the Kansas City Live-Stock Indicator in 1878, and sold out in 1893. The panic of that year resulted disastrously for him and he lost the accumulation of years. After a residence of over a quarter of a century in K. C. he came to Anderson in September 1896, purchasing, the Anderson Messenger, which he renamed the Advocate and he runs as an independent (not neutral) local journal. In politics he has always affiliated with the Democrats, and was elected member of the Common Council in Kansas City 1*7^ 79 as such. He is an anti-protectionist and a free silver man, also a believer in the Single Tax doctrine

Mr, Elliff was born in Lawrence county this state, May 26, 1855. His parents came to McDonald county in 1866, and Jessee has made this his home ever since. He improved every opportunity to attend school and was granted a certificate and taught his first term in 1874. Mr. Elliff has twice been principal of the Southwest City public schools and is a prominent teacher of the county. He is Sunday School Superintendent and clerk of the Baptist church at Anderson and is a member of the I. O. O. P. In 1890 he was appointed clerk at Quapaw Agency and served 15 months after Cleveland's inauguration. He tilled his position with honor to himself and with credit to his county and administration. He stands high with the department and is well versed in Indian affairs. Is an untiring republican worker and in 1894 was a delegate to the county, congressional and State conventions and a member of the Congressional committee. Mr. Ellin2 is the owner of a good residence in Anderson and is a substantial citizen of the county. He is now keeping a hotel at Anderson and is doing a thriving business as real estate agent.

James H. Wimpey

Among the men who -figured prominently in the affairs of the county for several years is James H, Wimpey of Anderson, son of Joshua and Nancy (Ragsdale) Wimpey. He was born June 3, 1837, in Hamilton county, Tenn. When he was about three years old his parents moved to Illinois, and in 184-4 settled in what is now Ivlc Donald county, where the object of this sketch was reared. He took advantage of the meager facilities for schools, and by close application secured a fair education which he has since greatly improved by an extensive course of reading. He and Miss Mary Kinslow were united in marriage in December, 1859. To them have been born four children, two of whom died in infancy. Their son, Joshua L. Wimpey is now a Justice of the Peace, elected in 1894, and a respected citizen of this county. The daughter Tennie B. is the wife of Ed Rudisill, a merchant at Anderson, this county. Being an uncompromising Union man, Mr. Wimpey was compelled to leave this county in the early part of the war, consequently he enlisted, August 2, 1862, in the 6th Kansas Cavalry, and served to the close of the war. He participated in several engagements among which were those at NewTtonia, Prairie Grove and Honey Springs. At the election November, 1866, he was elected assessor of this county, which office he tilled two years. In 1868 he wTas elected Sheriff and Collector, which he also held two years. In 1871 he was appointed by Gov. Brown to till a vacancy in the county court. He has since been nominated for various county offices on the Republican ticket but his party having been greatly in the minority, he has each time been defeated. He was a staunch Republican until 1894, since which time he has been a Populist with strong leanings towards Socialism. In religion he is an Agnostic; by occupation a farmer. Being a man of strong convictions and out spoken in defending what he believes to be right, he made some enemies while in public life but his dealings, whether as an official or in private life, have always been honorable, and his whole life on the side of morality, intelligence and progression.

John B. Christensen

John Benjamin Christensen, was born in Malta Bend, Saline County, Missouri, April 2, 1876. In 1877 his parents moved near Odessa, Missouri where they lived until 1887, when they went to Kansas City which place was John's home until he and his wife came to McDonald County to take up their residence. He received his education in the public schools. From the Westport High School entering the Law Department of the Missouri State University in September, 1893, he graduated from that Institution in June, 1895, at the age of nineteen and as valedictorian of a class in which he was the youngest student. Besides having attained the highest standard of proficiency during the whole course, he had the distinction of writing a prise thesis on a legal subject submitted by the Law Faculty, the Judge of merit being the Chief Justice of the Missouri Supreme Court. He was admitted to the bar before the Supreme Court, June 7, 1895, since which time he has devoted himself to the practice.

J. A. Jackson

John Alonzo Jackson, oldest son of Samuel H. and Mary J. Jackson, was born in Neosho, Missouri, March 16, 1870. He received a good education in the common schools of Neosho, where he spent his childhood and youth. He and Miss Esther Page of Neosho, were married December 4, 1892. They have one child, Marguiritte, born at Neosho, Nov. 21, 1893. From July, 1889, to May 1892, he was deputy circuit clerk of Newton county. Is a member of the First Congregational church of Neosho. Has never held an office.

Mr. Jackson has always taken an active part in politics, having been secretary of the Newton county executive committee, president of the Republican club of Neosho and chairman of the Republican executive committee of that city. He stumped Newton county in behalf of the Republican party in 1892, 1894 and 1896. He was admitted to the bar in May 1892 and practiced at Neosho until February, 1897, when he located at Pineville. Here he is building up a good reputation and with it a good legal business, having poven himself a lawyer of tine abilities.

The object of this sketch was born in Delaware county, Indiana, October 16, 1850. He remained in that state, attending the district schools during his boyhood, until 1870, at which time he came to McDonald county. December 28, 1876, he was united in marriage with Miss Callie C. Stevenson of this county. They have seven children, Flora E. , Franklin, John, Vernon, Howard, Lemuel and Lois.

He has been collector of Southwest City three years, street commissioner five years and city marshal five years, all of which speak of his moral worth and standing among the people. He is a member of the M. E. Church, south, an Odd Fellow and Mason. In politics, he is a Republican, and is counted as one of the leading men of that party. He has never sought or held an office outside of his city, though his name has been mentioned on one or two occasions as a candidate on the county ticket. Should he ever come before the people they can rest assured that an honest and competent man will be asking their favors.

Dan Harmon

Dan Harmon, son of Mark and Elizabeth Harmon, was born in Green county, Tenn. July 22, 1833. His parents came to McDonald county in 1847, and from that time until the present the Harmons have been among the leading people of this county. Dan remained with his parents five years after their arrival here, during which time he went to school three months, Moses Pollard being the teacher. In 1852 he went to California to seek his fortune in the gold diggings. He drove an ox team and was six months and one day on the road. It is useless to remark that Mr. Harmon did not die on the road, but he passed through the desert where for miles the trail was lined with the carcasses of dead cattle and horses and the bones of many human beings were bleaching in the sun where they had perished from heat and thirst, He remained west of the Rocky mountains thirteen years, returning in 1865. On his return he brought with him $5,500, and spent $1,000 on his way home.

of this county, were married. They have had eight children, five of whom are living. Mr. Harmon was public administrator a few years after the war. He has served as Justice of the Peace and post master. For some years he was in the mercantile business at Erie, where he enjoyed a good trade until burnt out. He owns a fine farm on Indian creek where he lives in good, comfortable style, and where he and Mrs. Harmon dispense hospitality to their numerous friends in a truly royal manner.

Judge I. N. Shambaugh

For nearly twenty years the man whose name stands at the head of this page was an honored and prominent member of our community. Judge Shambaugh was born in Warren county, Virginia, September 29, 1823. In 1841 he moved to DeKalb county Missouri, where he remained until the war came up. He was a self educated man, having studied during his leisure time at home. He studied law in DeKalb county and began his career there as a practitioner. In 1858 he was elected a member to the State Legislature, and re-elected in 1860, being a member when the question of Secession came up. He met with the General Assembly at Neosho and opposed that measure, but afterwards espoused the cause.

During the Mexican war the Governor of this state issued him a commission as Lieutenant Colonel, but the war closed before he reached the scene of conflict. About the close of the war he went to Nebraska City, Neb., where he practiced law seven years. While in active practice he had remarkable success and won a brilliant reputation. The close confinement and hard study together with the severe climate were more than he could bear, and his health gave way. For this reason he came to McDonald county in 1873, and purchased a large farm on Elk River where it crosses the state line. Here he was engaged in farming and dealing in stock until his death. As in every other venture which he ever undertook, he made a success of this and was counted one of the wealthiest men in the county. The management of our county officers had been quite improvident and in some instances there were strong indications of fraud. The county was in debt some $30,000 and county warrants worth but 25 cents on the dollar. Judge Shambaugh promised the people that if they would elect him presiding Judge he would get the county out of debt. Accordingly in 1876 he was elected to that office, also Probate Judge, and re-elected in 1880. He inaugurated a system of rigid economy and before half of his second term was out had paid the entire debt and raised the warrants to par. Having accomplished the object for which he was elected, he handed in his resignation. His public life and sterling worth as a private citizen gave him a high place in the estimation of our people, and he could have held any office within their gift, but he preferred the peace and quite of his farm life. He was married in 1850 and they had three children all of whom are living in this county. He died in November, 1892.

Among the enterprising men of this county is J. W. Shields, the genteel cashier of the McDonald County bank. He was born in this county, Nov. 14, 1856. He is the son of George R. Shields formerly of Tenn. , who came to this Co. in 1846. He secured a good education in the schools at Southwest City, near which his father resides. He taught school two years, two terms being in Southwest City. He established a mercantile business at Saratoga in 1880. He was at that place seven years, four of which he was post master. He then moved his business to Southwest City, where he was also post master until Benjamin Harrison appointed his successor. He remained at that place until he took charge of the Circuit Clerk and Recorders office to which he was elected in 1890. He tilled the office with great credit and was a candidate for re-election, but went under with the Republican wave that swept this county in 1894. He at once established the bank which he has made a great success. His extensive improvements have given employment to a number of men. His residence is one of the finest and best arranged in the county. He and Miss Lulie Riggs of Saratoga were married Oct. 14, 1880. They have four children living. Mr. and Mrs. Shields are members of the Baptist church, and he is a great Sunday school worker, and has been clerk of the Shoal Creek Association for the last five years. He owns a fine set of abstract books and does an extensive Abstract and Real Estate business.

Rev. T. A. Coffelt

Rev. Theodore A. Coffelt, M. D., is the fifth son of Rev. Wyatt Coffelt, who now lives in Bentonville, Ark., aged 85 years. Dr. Coffelt was born on Buffalo, McDonald, county Missouri April 10, 1855. He was reared and educated in Benton county Ark. where his father moved to when he was quite young. He studied medicine and attended the Medical Department of the Vanderbilt University at Nashville Tenn. in 1883-84. He began the practice of medicine in Benton county Ark. in April 1884. In Oct. 1885 he was married to Miss Mary C. Clayton, daughter of Rev. J. M. Clayton, a member of the Arkansas Conference. Dr. Coffelt graduated at the Missouri Medical College, St. Louis Mo. March 2nd, 1886. He continued practice in Arkansas until January 1892 when he moved to St. Louis. Here he took a Post graduate course in diseases of the eye and was apixnnted as an assistant in the Eye Clinic under Dr. Chas. E. Michel in the Polyclinic and Post Graduate School of Medicine. In April 1893 he was licensed to preach as a local minister in the M. E. Church South, and in June 1893 moved to Carthage Mo. where he practiced as a Specialist in eye and ear diseases until Sept. 1895 when he was admitted on trial into South West Mo. Corf erence held at Webb City Mo. by Bishop Duncan and was appointed to the Pineville Circuit. While at Carthage he was appointed by the Pension Dept. as special examiner for southwest Missouri in eye and ear diseases. He has served this Charge for two years and has been successful in building up the church; has secured 95 into the church, built three good church houses and a beautiful and substantial parsonage during these two years of labor for the church. He has been very successful as a physician and enjoys considerable reputation as an Oculist. As a preacher he is able and earnest, and a great honor to the calling. He has three children two boys and one girl.

J. W. Smith

Among the prominent and self made young men of our county is John W. Smith, our county school commissioner. He is the son of George W. and Elizabeth Smith, and was born in this county September 24, 1866. His parents moved to Granby about 1874 and remained there three years when they returned to this county. John was educated in the district schools, attended a few months at Pleasant Hope and finished his last school days as a student at Warrensburg Missouri. He has been teaching school for several years and is one of our most accomplished scholars. In the spring of 1895 he was elected county school commissioner, and re-elected in 1897. He is filling the office with credit to himself and satisfication to the people. He is a member of the Christian church and of the Masonic order.

Mr. Smith has had many disadvantages to overcome, but has triumphed over all and is an example of what perseverence, energy and close application will do for a young man.

F. A. Sears was born in McHenry county, Illinois, March 12, 1858. He is a son of Charley and Jane Sears. His parents moved to Iowa in 1861, and five years later came to Jasper county Missouri. Mr. Sears has lived in Missouri and Kansas ever since. He obtained a fair education at the district schools, and when quite a young man began work in a mill. He learned the trade at Lowell, Kansas, aud for nearly twenty years has followed that business. In May, 1881, he and Miss Mary Ann Scholes of Cherokee county, Kansas, were united in marriage. They have four children, two boys and two girls. Ten years ago he came to this county and most of the time has had charge of the McNatt Mills. He is now in the mercantile business with Woolard & Co. at that place, but has leased the Galbraith Mills at Lauagan where he now lives. Mr. Sears stands well with the people wherever he is known, and his reputation for fair dealing is universal all over Southwest Missouri. His business has been such for the past few years that it was much more difficult for him to fill all of his orders than to find sale for his products.

George R. Clay

Among the young men who have risen to distinction in this county is George R. Clay. He was born at Aurora, Illinois, July 23, 1870, and came with his parents, M. W. and Nancy L. Clay, to Newton county Missouri in 1880. He attended the country school near his home a few years then went to school at Port Scott, Kansas and Kansas City, Mo., until he received a good education. He then entered the law office of Col. Cloud at Pierce City where he read law until admitted to the bar at Neosho in 1892. During the Cherokee payment in 1894 he was in the Indian Territory buying Cherokee warrants for the Grand Forks, South Dakota National Bank. In January, 1895, he located at Pineville to practice his profession, and from the first made a phenomenal success. Though young and inexperienced in the practice, he won nearly all his cases and the first year made more money than any other lawyer ever made in this county in the same time. In 1896 he was nominated by the Democratic party for

Prosecuting Attorney, and endorsed by the Populist. In the election which followed he received a majority over his opponent of 556 votes. Since taking charge of the office he has proven a vigorous prosecutor and is administering his office with credit to the party which elected him Mr. Clay is a man of brilliant intellect and will evidently rise to distinction in his profession.

For many years, one of the most prominent men in the west part of our county, is Dr. A. J. McKinney, of Tiff City. He was born in Bradley county, Tennessee, May 19, 1853. With his parents, Adaniram and Sarah McKinney, he moved to Madison county, Missouri, in 1860. His father, who wTas a soldier in the Southern army, died in 1862. His mother now lives at Tiff City. He received a good education in the public schools of his place, and afterwards graduated from the Missouri Medical College at St. Louis, in 1882. Having studied medicine before entering college, .he located at Marquand, in this state where he practiced two years. After graduating, he returned to that place and remained two years more. In 1884 he located at Tiff City, where he soon acquired an extensive and lucrative practice. Being studious and very attentive to his patients, and having a natural talent for his profession, he met with uncommon success. He also established a small drug store, which he has gradually in-

On the 5, day of October, 1881 he was united in marriage with Miss Mary E. Griffin, of Fredericktown, Missouri. She died January 20, 1884, leaving two children, Ollie and William H. The Dr. was again married June 2, 1886, to Miss Nellie Chase, a daughter of John R. Chase, now of Seneca. He has always been a Democrat, is a member of the I. O. O. F. and of the Baptist church.

Dan Huckins

Mr. Huckins was born August 3, 1849, in Iriquois county, Illinois. His youth was spent near Kankakee and Chicago. He obtained a common school education in the district schools and at Eigin, Illinois. In 1867 he was married to Miss Anna Porter. To them was born a boy, James, who is still living. Mrs. Huckins died several years ago. In 1869 he went to White Cloud, Kansas, and for five years traveled over that state as a photographer. He afterwards located at Craig, Missouri, on the Kansas City, Omaha & Council Bluffs rail road, where he carried on a wagon shop. At this place he held the office of city clerk, assessor and collector. In 1879 his establishment was destroyed by the flood. He made a boat in which he rowed out to his shop, secured what tools he could find and then floated down the river to Kansas City. From there he came to Seneca, where he remained two years. In 1881 he located at Tiff City where for the last sixteen years he has kept a wagon shop, been notary public, justice of the peace, post master and local attorney. Although the office is one of considerable importance, he has held it under both Dem. and Rep. administrations, which speaks well for him as a public man. Some years after coming to this county he was united in marriage with Mrs. Nancy J. Foster, by whom he has three children. He united with the M. E. church, south, in 1887. Is an Odd Fellow, Good Templar, and belongs to the Sons of Temperance, of which order he has been State Deputy He is also a member of the A. O. U. W., Select Knights and Woodmen of the World.

Judge W. E. Smith

William E. Smith was born in Lincoln county Kentucky in September 1844, and is a son of John C. Smith of Neosho Missouri. Wm. E. Smith received an education in the common schools of Clay and Marion counties Ilk, his family having settled in the former county in 1849, and in the latter in 1854. He came to Missouri in 1867, and located in Newton county where for one year he was engaged in farming, thence in 1868 he removed to Jasper county where he remained engaged in farming and mining until 1872, when he returned bo Newton county, and continued farming and stock raising until 1879. He then engaged in the Mercantile business at Thurman that county of which place he was appointed post master on April 16, 1880, continuing in office and business until January 1882, when he removed to Indian Springs Mc- Donald county Mo. There he engaged in merchandise and real estate business, and was elected chairman of the town council. In the fall of 1882 was elected justice of the peace which office he resigned in Dec. 1884, to take charge of the Probate judge's office to which he had been elected the preceding Nov. to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of judge I. N. Shambaugh. In Nov. 1886 he was re-elected and in Nov. 1890 he again was re-elected his own successor. In Nov. 1894 he was the Nominee of his party for the same office, but was defeated by the heroic efforts of his enemies and combination of two parties, and on the first day of Jan. 1895 he turned the Probate office over after ten years service. In 1893 he purchased the Pineville News and at once changed the name of the paper to the Pineville Democrat which he published until Jan. 1896, when he sold his interest, since which time he has been engaged in the Hotel and Real Estate business and was commissioned Notary Public by Gov. Stone on Dec. 17, 1894. He was married to Harriett A. Smith a daughter of Wm. C. Smith on May 11, 1865 and to them was born seven children: those living are Jerusha E. A., Richard R , Lodosca L. and Edward C. Mrs. Smith died on June 5, 1879, and on February 22, 1883, Mr. Smith married Mrs. Virginia T. Tweedy. Mr. Smith still resides in Pineville and takes a very active part in the politics of the day. He is a member of the Congressional and Senatorial Democratic committies, of which party he is a loyal and able member. He has been a member of our school board much of the time since his residence here, and takes an active part in all public improvements. He is also an Odd Fellow in which order he is serving his second term as Noble Grand. His ten years experience in the Probate office has given him a thorough knowledge of that business and he is doing the most extensive Probate practice of any lawyer in the county.

H. C. Pepper

Henry C. Pepper was born in Hart county, Kentucky, August 13, 1851. He grew up on a farm in the state of his birth, where he learned the habits of industry which he still follows closely. He attended Normal school three years at Canmer, Ky., also attended Classical and Military College at Danville, Ky. , and Neophogen College, Gallatin, Tennessee. He studied law at Cumberland University, Lebanon Tennessee, where he graduated in 1879, receiving the degree of L. L. B.

Having thus made a thorough preparation for entering the battle of life, he started out on that all important struggle. Being without means, he began by teaching school which he followed for some time. After coming west he was in Kansas a short time, then in the North part of this state. He located at Pineville in 1882 or 1883, since which time he has confined himself exclusively to the law practice. Being a strong Democrat and good worker in the ranks of the party, he soon came into prominence. In 1886 he was nominated on that ticket and elected prosecuting attorney. At the end of his first term he was again elected. Prom the time of taking charge of that office he rapidly rose in the estimation of our people as a man and as a lawyer, and at the close of his second term ranked among the leading lawyers of this judical circuit. In 1891 he went to Cassville where he is now living. He was soon recognized as the head of the bar in Barry county, and his business extends to all the counties of this judicial circuit, and considerable in other counties, besides an extensive practice in the St. Louis Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court. He is always pronounced in upholding right and denouncing wrong, and his influence in our county was such that the entire moral standard was raised. In other words, while public prosecutor he sought the influence of and set to work the better element in each community.

Hon. John C. Lamson

Judge Lamson was born in Jefferson county- New York, Nov. 29, 1827. His father, Peter Lamson, was a native of Vermont, but moved to New York when a child. When the subject of this sketch was a small child his parents removed to Madison county, Ohio, where they resided three years, then went to LaGrange county Indiana. There John C. Lamson was reared on a farm, securing his education at Oberlin College, from which institution he graduated in 18- 57. He then entered the law department of the University of New York, at Albany, graduating in 1859. During the fall of 1860 he traveled through Texas with a view to locating, but political excitement and animosities prevented. He afterwards traveled through the Central and Western states, and was at Sunrise, Minn., when Port Sumpterwas fired on. Immediately returning to Indiana, he enlisted, April 19, 1861, in the Pederal army, but was not received in the three months' call. He, however, remained at Indianapolis, and as soon as the call was made for 75,000 three-year men he enlisted as a private in Company B, Seventeenth Indiana Infantry. This regiment served on foot until the early part of 1863, after which they served as mounted infantry until the close of the war. Mr. Lamson was promoted to the position of first lieutenant in the winter of 1861-62, and wTas discharged as captain. He participated in the battles of Greenbriar, West Virginia, Shiloh, Stone River, Hoover's Gap, Chickamauga, McMinnville, Farmington, and wTas almost continuously in the field at the front. Mr. Lamson came to Pineville in the winter of 1865, locating permanently in the spring of 1866, since which time he was actively engaged in practicing his profession, until he took charge of his present office, January 1, 1893. On November 13, 1872, he was united in marriage with Lois A. Santley a daughter of Joseph Santley, of Wellington, Ohio. She was born on the Western Reserve, Ohio, in Loraine County. In politics he is a Republican, and in religion is a member of the Congregational Church of Neosho, Mo. In 1870 Mr. Lamson was elected to represent McDonald County in the State Legislature, and has served as prosecuting attorney for one or two terms. In November, 1892, he was elected Judge of this Judicial Circuit, which position he still holds. As a judge he has gained a reputation for honesty, fairness and judicial ability, and has the friendship of all the legal fraternity.

Marcus N. Lamance was born at Saratoga, McDonald county, Missouri, October 16, 1844. He has always lived in this county, and most of his life has been a citizen of Pineville. His father, J. P. LaMance, was a merchant at this place for many years, and served as county treasurer one or two terms, Marcus spent his early days in farming and clerking in a store. During the first years of the war he remained at home, and was present when the court house was burnt. At one time he came near being lynched by some Kansas troops, but was saved by the entreaties of his mother. After this he enlisted in the Confederate army and served two years.

In 1878 he began the mercantile business here, which he has followed for nearly twenty years. He has made a success, and now occupies a handsome two story brick, which is filled with a well selected stock of goods. He is now county treasurer, which office he has held one or two previous terms. He was appointed post master in 1*79 and held the position until after the installment of Harrison in 1889. He is a Mason and a member of the Chapter.

Lora S. Nichols was born in Wolcottville, Indiana, April 2, 1857. Her father, Nelson Nichols was a native of New York, and her mother, Keziah (Waltman), of Pennsylvania. Lora received a liberal education in the States of Minnesota and Ohio, but was compelled to quit school before graduating on account of ill health. She came to Southwest Missouri in 1878. April 14, 1880, she and M. N. LaMance of Pineville were united in marriage. They have one child Lora, who is now attending college at Neosho. They have an elegant home, and for many years the beautiful plants and flowers have been an object of attraction to all our people.

Mrs. LaMance early developed talent as an authoress, but did not begin writing for the press until 1888. Her natural taste for flowers, and the "beautiful in life" inspired her pen and her literary productions soon gained notoriety. Besides fugitive pieces she has written three horticultural books "House Plants," "Beautiful Home Surroundings," and "Insects." Twenty thousand copies of one of these books Were sold in a year 's time. She was offered the editorship of two floral journals, one of which is the leading journal of the world. As Mr. LaMance 's health was too delicate to make a change to a severer climate, she rejected the offer. She has a letter from the literary editor of the Kansas City Star commending in very high terms an article of hers he chanced to read in an exchange.

She is a constant temperance worker, having taken the lead in that work in this county for several years past. Much of her work has been done through the W. C. T. IL, of which she is county president, and her efforts have produced a decided change in public opinion on that question. She is in favor of Woman's Suffrage, and is a member of the Congregational church.

Johnson E. Edelen, son of Joseph B. and Agnes O. Edelen, was born in Washington City, D. C, November 15, 1848. He attended school at Georgetown college and afterwards graduated at the Cecilian College, Hardin county, Kentucky. He read medicine in his father's office some four years after which he graduated in the medical department of the University at Louisville, Kentucky, at which place his father had located after the war.

In 1871 the doctor went to Fort Smith, Arkansas, where he remained about a year. He then went back to Louisville and remained until after his father's death, and then located a few years at Bardstown, Ky. He then went to Colorado on account of his health, and remained about four years. He came to Pineville in 1886, since which time he has been practicing medicine and operating a drug store. He was married July 20, 1871 to Miss Mattie B. Carroll, of Arkansas, a grand niece of Charles Carroll of Carrollton, who signed the Declaration of

Independence. His mother was a niece of the distinguished Rev. Abercrombie of Philadelphia. They have two children living Joseph and Katie. He has twice been elected coroner of this county by a large majority over a popular opponent and tilled the office with great credit.

Hon. W. C. Prick

William C. Price was born in Jackson county Tennessee, March 11, 1821. His father, Campbell Price, was a native of South Carolina, who removed his family to Benton, then Washington County, Ark., in 1829. Thence he removed to Bowers Mill, in what is now Lawrence County Mo., late in 1833. The next year he went to Newton County, coming to McDonald County in 1835. He entered government land and settled on Boifalo creek where the subject of this sketch now resides. It was here that he reared his family and passed the remainder of his days. Hon. William C. Price grew to manhood at the home of his parents, assisting in the work of the farm. He can remember when wild animals were very plentiful in the region of his home, and Indians often hunted up and down the valleys. On February 1, 1844, Mr. Price was united in marriage with Clarinda, a daughter of James P. Beeman, and to them were born twelve children. Politically he is a Democrat, and his party has favored him with several important offices. For four years he served as sheriff of the county, and represented the same in the State Legislature from 1873 to

1877. For six years he served as superintendent of the United States Flouring Mills in the Seneca Nation, Indian Territory. During the Civil War he sympathized with the South and served in the Confederate army as a member of Captain Parks' Company H, Second Cherokee Regiment, with which he participated in the battles of Fort Gibson and Armstrong Ford. He was one of the leaders of his party for many years and served as chairman of the county committee several terms. He is now living out his old days in peace and plenty at the old home where he grew to manhood.

Asa Tabler was born in McDonough county, Illinois in 1849. He was a son of Thomas H. and Louisa Tabler. He grew up to manhood near the place of his birth but, like so many other youn^ men concluded to "go west and grow up with the country.' Asa doesn't say whether he had been reading Horace Greely, or just took his advice from his own personal inclination and ideas. Be this as it may he came west and the first point he struck was Fort Smith, Arkansas. He remained there but a short time, then went to Payettville, Arkansas, where he remained about a year. He then went to Linn county this state where he remained some eight or nine years. After this his thoughts wandered back to Arkansaw, and he wrent back to that state. This time he stopped at Bentonville where he remained a short time, but failed to find a suitable investment for his means. After looking around for some time he located at Southwest City, about 1886, where for the last eleven years he has been one of the leading business men of that place. His occupation most of the time has been keeping Hotel and Livery stable. His estimable wife is pro- ncient in the former business and they are both of such a friendly disposition that every one is made to feel welcome and fed on the best that can be found in the market.

His livery is one of the best in this county and he has the name of taking the best of care of horses put up at his stable. You need never look to see that they are properly fed and watered. He has lately completed a handsome building on Main street which they expect to occupy when their present lease expires. In 1879 he and Miss Mattie Sharp of Bentonville, Ark., wTere married: they have no children.

Joseph W. Kelly

city of Warsaw. Like nearly all country ... ; he had to depend on the district school for education, going to such school during the winter months only. He lived and worked on the farm until June, 1862, when he went into the United States army, being a member of Co., "K?' 74th. Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He served with his compa ny to the close of the war, participating in the battles of Green River, Mumfordsville, Kentucky, Hoove Gap, Tenn, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge the battles and skirmishes of the Gre t At] ,nt campaign, and marched with Sherman to the sea. After the war lie went to Iowa, then to the far northwest where he participated in several skirmishes with others lighting hostile Indians. After several years in the mountains and on the plains he returned to Indiana, remaining there for a few years, then back Iowa. I then to McDonald county, Missouri, in- April, 1893. With J. H. Quails he establish the Anderson M inger in June, 1898, and in November, 1893, disposed of his interest to Mr. Quails; on December 1st of the same year assumed charge of the Pineville Democrat for W.

E. Smith & Co. , who had just purchased the office. He remained with Smith & Co., two years and then with F. A. Freeze, who had become interested in the office, until August, 1896, when he assumed control of the paper by purchase and lease and is still its editor and publisher. Under his management the paper has steadily increased in circulation and influence and is regarded with favor and confidence by its party and adherents as well as the people at large. He is a free silver Democrat all the time and under all circumstances.

July 2, 1893, he wTas married to Miss Kate L. Nefif of Pineville. To this union has been born one daughter Miss Viola M. Kelley, a bright little Miss of three Summers. Mr. Kelly came to McDonald county on account of poor health, and the result is that our fine climate and pure water made a comparatively well man of him, and he now thinks this the county of all communities for the poor in health as well as poor in purse.

Matthew Clark Falkenbury was born in Mercer county, Illinois, on July 19, 1861, and was raised in Washington county, that state, up to the age of 18 years. He acquired an education mostly in the common schools and was graduated in the Bachelor of Science degree at the Central Normal College of Danville, Ind. , in 1884, and came west in the same year. In 1888 he founded the Southwest Leader at Southwest City. He was married to Miss Grace Me- Clain, of Coffey ville, Kan. , in 1888. His father, Don A. Falkenbury is a native of eastern New York who emigrated to Illinois at an early day and later to Florida. His mother, Miranda E. Miller, was raised at Columbus, Ohio. Mr. Falkenbury is a man of superior ability and publishes a paper of which Southwest City and McDonald county should be proud.

Rev. M. L. Stewart

Marcus -L. Stewart, son of Thomas H. and Julia M. Stewart, was born in Lawrence county Kentucky, September 19, 1862. Two years afterwards his parents moved to Davis county, Missouri, and live years later to Montgomery county, Kansas. Mr. StewTart attended the district schools during boyhood, where he obtained a common school education, and then took a short term at Scarrett College, Neosho. September 21, 1882, he and Miss Segornia Eppard, of this county, Were united in marriage, which union has been blessed with seven children, all

Mr. StewTart early identified himself wTith the Methodist Episcopal Church, and wras ordained a minister of that denomination some five years ago. He has gained a host of friends w7herever he has taught or preached, and many of our people, and especially the children, will remember him wTith pleasure. In 1896 he went to Idaho, where he had charge of a circuit for some months, and then returned to this county to finish u}3 his business. He wras quite favorably impressed with the people and location there and expects to make his home there. He established and carried to a successful termination the Chautauqua at Southwest City this fall, for which commendable enterprise he will have the lasting praise and esteem of her people.

Albert C. Walters, son of John U. and Margaret (Tyler) Walters, was born in Switzerland, September 2, 1844. In 1847 his parents came to this country, first settling at Camden, N. J. The next year they went to the city of Philadelphia where they remained about five years, then went to Burks county, Pennsylvania. Mr. Walters attended school first in Philadelphia and afterwards at the schools near his father's home in Burks county. He enlisted at Reading, Pa., in the fall of 1862, in the 151st Pennsylvania Volunteers, and served eleven months, and was in the battle of Gettysburg.

He first came to Polk county, this state, in 1868. The next year he went back east, but soon returned and has been in Southwest Missouri ever since. He and Miss Mary E. Brown, of this county, were married in 1871; they have five children living and two dead.

He came to this county in 1882, and bought the old mill where Bosserman now is. After refitting it he sold it, and in June, 1883, bought out A. M. Dillin of Pineville. From that time to September, 1897, he was one of the leading merchants of that place. He then sold to Carnell &. Duval. , He has been engaged in farming, milling and merchandise, and is a good carpenter. He has not united with any church, but is strictly moral and his influence is for Christianity. He has always been a Democrat, but now is a Prohibitionist. In 1884 he was elected treasurer of this county which position he filled with credit, and had the name of keeping a remarkably neat set of books which balanced to a cent on his final settlement.

P. A. Freeze

Freeze, son o f Elbert F. S. and Eliza J. (Hankins) Freeze, was born in Barry county, Mo., Jan. 29, 1870, his parents having come to this state from Tenn. He was brought up on a farm and attended the district schools during the winters. |He went to the Cassville High School four years, Exeter two years and the Baptist College at Pierce City one year.

In 1888 he began teaching and has followed that work since, except while attending school, which he alternated with teaching as he could secure funds to pay expenses. In 1892 he took a trip through Kansas, Colorado and Texas looking for a more favorable location, but returned to Southwest Missouri after an absence of ten months. In 1896 he edited the Pineville Democrat for eight months, but sold his interest in the paper and took charge of a school. He was elected constable of Pineville township on the Democratic ticket in 1896. The 20th day of

February, 1896, he and Miss Effie Parmer, one of Pineville's most intelligent and popular young ladies, were married. Both are members of the Baptist church. After remaining in this county from 1894 to the spring of 1897, he returned to Barry county where he owns a nice farm and is also following his profession of teacher.

Mrs. P. A. T. Yocum

Phoebe Ann Tremble Yocum, Daughter of Hiram and Sarah Tremble, was born at Mattoon, Cole county, Illinois, December 5, 1846. There she remained during her childhood and youth, and was educated in the McParland Seminary, Mattoon, which she attended three years. She discovered considerable ability as a writer during her school days, and began writing for the papers when but twelve j^ears of age. During the war she corresponded for the local pa- pers, and since coming west for many years was reporter for the St. Louis Daily papers. She was married in Cole county, Illinois, June 2, I8- 60, to William M. Yocum also of that county. They have had six children, five of whom are living".

After her marriage Mrs. Yocum discontinued her literary work for a number of years, taking it up again about 1880. She contributed articles to the Journal of Agriculture, St. Louis, for seven years, at the same time writing for several magazines. Most of her productions have been short stories, but some three years ago she was called on to write a continued story, and her effort in that line met with such favor that she now has a number which have been accepted by the publishers. She is preparing to pat some of her writings on the market in book form, and has assurances of success.

Mrs. Yocum has lived in McDonald county about fifteen years. She is a leading temperance worker, occupies a prominent place in the W. C. T. U , and holds a life membership in the Christian Endeavor, of which she is very proud. She and her husband are both members of the Cumberland Presbyterian church.

J. A. Foster

The subject of this sketch was born on Pea Ridge, Benton county, Arkansas, September 24, 1854. He grew to manhood in the county of his birth, and received a liberal education at the Pea Ridge Academy, then known as Mount Vernon Academy. In 1873 he came to this county where he has resided most of the time since.

Mr. Poster began teaching in 1873, his first school being at Poplar Hill on Big Sugar creek. He followed teaching for fifteen years, and was regarded as one of our best instructors. A few years he was engaged in farming, then about the year 1893 he went to Cyclone and put up a small store where he remained about five years. In the fall of '97 he removed to Jane where he and T. J. Carnell have a good stock of general merchandise.

In 1882 he and Miss Katie Potts of McDonald county were married. They have four children all of whom are living. Politically he has always been a staunch Republican. He is a member of the Modern Woodmen, in which order he carries a life insurance for the benefit of his family. He takes much interest in the affairs of his community, and it was through his exertions and influence that Cyclone township was established.

Hon. John F. Tandy

J. F. Tandy, son of J. P. and Elizabeth (Par - nell) Tandy, was born in Carroll county, Kentucky, March 21, 1838. That was also the birth place of his parents. He came with his father to Lewis county, Missouri, in 1850, and has lived in this state ever since. When he was a boy school facilities, as well as lights, were meager, and his education was acquired by three month's attendance of the district school, and the balance at home by the light of hickory bark fires. He was married to Miss M. H. Townsend of Knox county, August 20, 1860. She bore him six children, five of whom are living, then died,

November 4, 1891. July 23, 1893, he and Mrs. Susan M. Moore of Osceola, St. Clair county, were married which union was blessed with one little girl.

Mr. Tandy began his official career in February, 1878, when he was appointed by Governor Phelps, as Presiding Judge of the county court of St. Clair county to fill a vacancy. That fall he was elected to that office, thus serving three years. In 1886 he was again elected to that office which he held the ensuing four years Those were stormy times in St. Clair county on account of the attempt to enforce the collection of rail road bonds that had been issued several years before but no road ever built. Judge Tandy believing the bonds were fraudulent, refused to levy a tax for their collection, for which he was incarcerated in the Federal jail at Jefferson City for seven months, beginning November 1887. He endured the imprisonment but never made the levy.

He came to McDonald county in Sept., 1893 and owns a good farm on Patterson creek. In 1894 he was nominated by the Populist for representative, and ran 100 votes ahead of his ticket. In 1896 he was nominated by both Democrats and Populists, and elected by a majority of 621. He is a man of fine appearance, an eloquent speaker and his services in the state legislature have been credible to himself, and for what he considered the best interest of his constituents. He is a minister in the Christian church to which he devotes much of his time.

Claib E. Duval, son of Dr. W. C. Duval of Pineville, was born at Rutledge, the old county seat, December 25, 1858, and has lived here the greater part of his life. He secured a good education in the public schools at Pineville. In 1871* he went into a printing office and learned the trade, and has been in the newspaper business nearly all the time since. One of his first ventures was the Saratoga Eagle, wThich he published while that town was in its prime. He

He was publisher of the Pineville News for many years, and which he made one of the best papers in the county. He sold that paper in the fall of 1893, but after trying a couple of other locations, returned in a few months and started the Herald, which he still publishes.

In September, 1897, he entered into a copartnership with P. L. Carnell, and bought the mercantile establishment and good will of A. C. Walters, and they are now one of the leading firms of the county seat.

He and Miss Mary J. Hamilton, who was born and raised in Indiana, were married at Eldorado Springs, Arkansas, February 23, 1882. They have four children - two girls and two boys - Clarice, Claude, Bessie and Vincil - aged respectively 14, 11, 9 and 6 years.

Dr. Solomon D. Preston was born October 10, 1853, in Logan county, Kentucky, where his childhood and youth were spent. He was educated at the Vanderbilt University where he studied medicine, but was taken down with typhoid fever when he lacked just one term of graduating. In 1880 he left his native state and went to Kansas, and two years later came to this county. He practiced medicine for a few years, but much of his time he operated a drug store afe which business he was very proficient.

Mr. Preston was raised a Republican, but for many years affiliated with the Democratic party. In 1892 he again identified himself with the Republican party, and warmly supported its principles to the time of his death. He has been engaged in the newspaper work at various times in this county, and his papers were always noted for the ability and parity of the reading matter. In the spring of 1897 he was taken down with typhoid fever, from which he died on the 5th day of May. He had a host of friends wherever known, and was the idol of his family to whom he had ever been a kind husband and father. He was a member of the Baptist church, the I. O. O. F., the A. O. U. W. and Woodmen of the World. In each of the last two orders he carried a life insurance of $2,000, also $2,000 in the Bay State Insurance Company of Mass.

Mrs. Fannie Preston, widow of the late S. D. Preston, was born on Pea Ridge, Arkansas, March 26, 1866. She is a daughter of Dr. W. C. Duval of Pineville, by his former wife, Mary Jane (Boyer). She was brought up from a little child in Pineville, where she attended the public schools, and early in life united with the M. E. Church, south. September 5, 1883, she and Dr. Preston were united in marriage. They have lived at Pineville, Indian Springs and Southwest Citjr in this county, and some eighteen months in the Cherokee Nation. To them were born seven children, six of whom - Edith, Susie, Joel Claiborn, Ruby, Lena, Cecil Rolloare living. Leo, the youngest child, died June 3, 1897, from the same malady that had taken off his father but a few weeks before.

Mrs. Preston now lives in a com for table home in Southwest City with ample means which the foresight and benevolence of her kind companion provided. Their engraving appears on the next page.

J. A. Doty

Joseph A. Doty was born in McDonough county, Illinois, January 10, 1864. His parents moved to Johnson county, Missouri, when he was two years old, but owing to the unsettled condition and lawlessness that existed there after the close of the war, the Doty family moved to Clark county, Iowa. Here young Doty worked on his father's farm and attended school, having to walk a mile and a half to reach the school house. In 1877 his parents removed to Osborne county, Kansas, where Joseph grew to manhood, and in the year of 1883 was weded to Miss Laura A. Beck.

In the fall of 1887 he landed in Southwest City, Missouri, a stranger in a strange land. He soon made acquaintences and friends and determined to cast his lot with the people of McDonald county and make Southwest City a permanent home. Just after the election in the fall of 1888 Mr. Doty conceived the idea of establishing a Republican paper in the county and set about to secure a plant. The latter part of December, 1888, a small printing outfit was purchased, and on January 10, 1889, the first issue of the Enterprise was printed. This was the first Republican paper published in the county and, as the party was unorganized, it was predicted by many that the paper would soon suspend as it would not be able to secure the proper support to make it a success. It certainly did look like a rash venture, right in Democry's stronghold, but under the guiding hand of Mr. Doty the Enterprise continued to grow, and to day is one of the leading papers in Southwest Missouri. The success of the paper is due to his able management. He has ever been a faithful exponent of Republican principles, at the same time avoiding offensive matter, so that persons of all parties took pleasure in reading his paper.

Mr. Doty has twice been elected Mayor of Southwest City, and holds that position at the present time. In 1894 he was prominently mentioned for State Senator from the loth district of Missouri.

Explanation

In the foregoing tables the vote is marked Democratic and Republican, only, as those two were the leading parties in this county. Those designated in the Republican column include all opponents of the regular Democratic nominees, and were sometimes Green Back, Union Labor, Independent Democrats or Populists. The Greenback party, when at its hight, polled about 300 votes. It was followed by the Union Labor party, which in turn gave way to the Populist. Some years they nominated a county ticket, while in other campaigns they supported nominees on the other tickets as they chose. Their strength reached about 330 votes. The Republicans some years put out part of a ticket, and openly, or tacitly endorsed other candidates who opposed the Democrats.

By comparing the following list of nominees with the tables, the vote of each one by townships may be ascertained. The successful candidate is first mentioned, and the politics designated.

Globe Hotel

First-class in its appointments. Table supplied with the best in the market. Good clean beds. Headquarters for all Pineville hack and mail lines.