Ray County, Missouri - The whole text, 1881 (part 17 of 23)

John L. Harrison

Was born in Flemingsburg, Fleming county, Kentucky, on the 22d day of April, 1840. His father, Mr. James B. Harrison, removed, in September following, to Missouri, and located, temporarily, in Callaway county. In the spring of 1841, he came to Ray county, and settled near the city of Richmond. The next year he bought one hundred and sixty acres of land, three miles west of Richmond, and removed to it with his family. On this farm our subject was reared. He finished his education with two years' study, at Richmond College, in December, 1859, and soon after went to Denver, Colorado. After spending about nine months in the Rocky mountains, he returned to his home in Ray county, but remaining but a short time. He enlisted, in the cause of the south, for the war, and was with the Confederate army until taken prisoner, on the Gasconade river, in 1862. He was held as prisoner of war, and transported from prison to prison until 1864, when he was pardoned, by President Lincoln* through the influence of ex-Governor Austin A. King. He never re-entered the service. After the war was over he engaged in the milling business, and then commenced farming, and has since pursued the latter calling. Mr. Harrison was married, January 16, 1867, to Miss Mary M. Magill, daughter of William Magill, Esq., of Ray county. One child, Minnie Lee, has been born of this marriage. Both Mr. and Mrs. Harrison are members of the M. E. Church South. He is also a Free Mason, with fellowship in Myrtle Lodge No. 338, at Millville. Mr. Harrison is an obliging and hospitable neighbor, a courteous gentleman, and a good citizen.

Arthur B. Elliott

Was born in Ray county, Missouri, on the 17th day of September, 1842, and was reared and educated here. His education he received principally at Richmond College. He is a son of Richard S. Elliott, deceased. His occupation has always been farming. He entered the Confederate army at the age of fifteen years, and fought throughout the four years of civil war. Mr. Elliott was married in the year 1865, to Miss Emma King, daughter of Adriel King, deceased. One child, named Henry Lee, was born to them. Mrs. Elliott lived only a short time after her marriage, dying in 1868. Mr. Elliott was subsequently married to Miss Mattie Lyle, daughter of Mr. Whit. Lyle, deceased. They became the parents of two children, named respectively, Robert and Emma. Mr. Elliott is a prosperous, well-to-do farmer, and a respected and valuable citizen of the county of Ray.

William Pinckney

Was born in Durham county, England, on the 2d day of July, 1834, and was educated there. He lived in his native country until he had attained his majority. He then came to America, and has been engaged, either in coal or lead mining, ever* since. Mr. Pinckney enlisted in the Union army at Lexington, Missouri, and served throughout the war. He has never been married. He came to Camden, Ray county, Missouri, in the year 1881, and now holds the responsible position of superintendent of the coal mines belonging to J. C. McGrew, Esq. Mr. Pinckney is an experienced and practical miner, and is thoroughly honorable and trustworthy, as his appointment to the position of superintendent bears testimony.

James C. Endicott

The subject of this sketch was born in Clay county, Missouri, on the 22d day of November, 1835, and lived there until January, 1855, when he came to Ray county, Missouri, and has lived here ever since. Mr. Endicott was married, the first time, on the 28th day of November, 1861, to Miss Margaret Remley, a native of Ray county. They became the parents of one child, Clara B. Mrs. Endicott died in the month of March, 1877, and Mr. Endicott was married again, on the 29th of November, 1877, to Miss Amy Barbers. The issue of this marriage was one child: Amanda M. Mr. Endicott is a member of the Masonic Lodge at Richmond. He owns a farm of two hundred acres of excellent land, one hundred and fifty acres in fine state of cultivation, and his busines is very prosperous.

Thomas McGinnis was born September 26, 1827, in Anderson county, Kentucky. He received his education in the common schools of the neighborhood, and at Versailles, in Woodford county. He was married in November, 1847, before he was twenty-one years of age, to Miss Rebecca Boggess, of Anderson county, Kentucky. Soon after his marriage with Miss Boggess, he removed to Missouri, and settled in Montgomery county, but remained there only one year, till he came to Ray county, January, 1848, where he has ever since resided. After locating in Ray county, Mr. McGinnis engaged in teaching school, at the same time superintending a farm in the botton near Hardin. After three years he abandoned the school-room, and devoted himself exclusively to farming and dealing in live-stock. His first wife died while he was engaged as teacher, and two years after her death he married Miss Laura I. Shaw, daughter of T. L. D. W. Shaw, now deceased. His second wife died in

May, 1S65, and he subsequently married Mrs. Lucinda M. Duncan, widow of Mr. John Duncan, and daughter of Bennett ^tratton, formerly of Ray county. From these three marriages have orung twenty-one children, five of whom were born to his first wife, five : fhe second, and eleven to the third, and out of this number only fourteen' ire living; one of them, Sarah F., is married. She is the wife of James E. Wood, Esq. Mr. McGinnis was justice of the peace of Crooked Rr, er township for six years, having been first elected in 1870. During this time he was at once justice of the peace, merchant, and farmer. His store (one of general merchandise) was in Hardin; his farm near that village. He also at the same time dealt somewhat extensively in live-stock. In 1876 he was , elected sheriff of Ray county on the democratic ticket, by a large majority over his republican competitor. He filled this office with singular efficiency, and at the general election in November, 1878, the people, appreciating his ability as an officer, and admiring him for his many excellent traits of character as a private citizen, demanded that he again be their sheriff, and he was elected to a second term without opposition. Captain McGinnis received at this election the largest vote ever cast in the countv. By virtue of a law of the state, he was prevented from availing himself of the general desire of his fellow-citizens to again elect him to the office of sheriff. He was succeeded in office bv his son, James T. McGinnis, and retired to his home, about three nfiles southwest of Richmond, where he now resides on his valuable and well-improved farm, in the enjoyment of the respect and esteem of all the people of Ray county, whom he has served faithfully in important positions of public trust. Of genial disposition, courteous in manners, obliging and agreeable to all, hospitable at his home, capable in office, always sincere, frank and honest, it is not wonderful that Thomas McGinnis is universally popular. No man of decent address and demeanor is denied a seat at his table; he is a generous host, a warm-hearted friend, and in every sense of the word a true gentleman. Captaia McGinnis is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and also of the Odd Fellows and Knights of Pythias, and has held responsible positions in each.

Harvey Happy

This gentleman was born in Lexington, Kentucky, on the 5th day of March, 1831, and there he was educated and continued to live until he was grown. His father, Mr. James Happy, was also a native of the state of Kentucky, and a farmer in Fayette county. Harvey Happy was married in Boone county, Kentucky, on the 22d day of March, 1850, to Miss Sarah Ann Rosell, daughter of George Rosell, of Boone county. One child, Isabella, was born of this union, and died September 20, 1852. Mrs. Happy died on the 8th day of January, 1854, and Mr. Happy was subsequently mar 'ed to Miss Jane Rosell, sister of his first wife. The issue of this mai iage was ten children, nine of whom still survive: Theodosia, wife f J. S. King; Walter, Lee Jackson, Harvey Ray, George Wash ton, Arthur Stephen, William Franklin, John Neil and Bud. The fir? child, Fillmore, by the second marriege, died at the age of six months. Mr. Happy came from Kentucky to Hardin, Ray county, Missouri, in 185 % and for a time after coming operated a saw mill and then merchandised for about four months at Hardin. Moved to the place he at present occupies (section twenty-one, township fifty-one, range twenty-eight) in 1868. This is a fine farm of two hundred acres of very productive land. Mr. Happy is a member of the "regular'* Baptist Church and also of Ada Lodge, No. 444, A. F. & A. M., at Albany. He is a substantial, well-to-do farmer and a good citizen.

John P. Weigles

John P. Weigles is of German extraction. He was born in Centerville, Illinois, on the 20th day of May, 1855, and educated in the city of St. Louis, Missouri, whither his father moved in 1856. Here his father died and the family afterwards moved to Ray county, Missouri. Our subject has always been engaged in farming. He was married December 26, 1879, to Miss Orl£nia A. Loyd. Of this union one child, John Perry, has been born. Mr. Weigles lives upon the Loyd estate, to which his wife is one of five heirs, one and a half miles west of the town of Camden. A number of the heirs are minors and partition of the property can not, in consequence, be made for some time, and in the meantime, Mr. Weigles controls and manages the place. Mrs. Weigles is a worthy member of the Fishing River Regular Baptist Church.

Martin V. Kite

Was born in Page county, Virginia, March 28, 1837. He attended school at a place called Honeyville. At the age of twenty-three years he enlisted in the 23d Virginia regiment of Confederate volunteers, and served in the cause of the south throughout the entire war. In the year 1869 he came to Missouri and located in Warren county, where he engaged in milling for about three years, then going to Lafayette county, he purchased a farm and pursued the business of stock-raising for four years. He sold his farm in Lafayette county in the year 1875, and coming to Ray county, purchased the Wolf farm, about two miles west of Camden, and has made his home here ever since. Mr. Kite was married while living in Warren county, Missouri, to Miss Jennie Kite, a distant cousin of his. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Kite, five of whom are living: David, Donie Salina, Sylvester, Maggie Docia, and

Roberta. Their eldest child died in infancy. Mrs. Kite is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, at Camden. Mr. Kite owns a valuable farm, well improved and stocked, and is in a flourishing condition. He is highly esteemed and respected by his neighbors, and is a valuable adjunct of the community in which he lives.

Robert H. Woodroof

Was born in Buckingham county, Virginia, on the 9th day of January, 1825. In the same year his father, Wyatt T. Woodroof, moved to St. Louis county, and after staying there one year, to St. Charles county, Missouri. After living there for five years his father died, and the family removed to Warren county, Missouri, where our subject received his education and grew to manhood. He began farming on his own account, in the year 1852, and has always followed that calling. He came to Ray county in 1869, and buying a farm from Dr. Brashear, (section 20, township 51, range 28,) settled upon it and has continued living there to the present time, (April, 1881). Mr. Woodruff was married on the 22d day of May, 1872, to Miss Sarah, daughter of Mr. George Lillard. They became the parents of two sons, one of whom, Robert L., is now living. Mr. Woodroof owns a valuable farm of three hundred and three acres of excellent land, well improved, with a good comfortable residence, out houses and barn and a fine orchard. He is a leading farmer and valuable citizen of Camden township.

William Cox

This gentleman was born in Hanover county, Virginia, on the 22d day of December, 1820, but was raised in Claiborne county, East Tennessee, whither his father had removed when he was but six years old. Here he grew up on his father's farm. He was engaged with the American army in the war against Mexico. He came to Missouri in 1839 and settled on Crooked river, in Ray county, about six miles northwest of the town of Richmond. His home has been in this county ever since he came first, except some time spent in Carroll county, and about nine years he lived in the state of Nebraska. In 1861 William Cox joined the Confederate army under General Price, and was engaged during the entire war, part of the time with General Price and part under General Jackson. He was also a soldier in the Indian wars in Oregon in 1854 and 1855. Mr. Cox was married in Ray county, Missouri, to Miss Elizabeth Eaton, daughter of Nathan Eaton, Esq., of Tennessee. The issue of this marriage was thirteen children. Only six of them, three of each sex, are now living. Mr. Cox is a member of the regular Baptist Church, and also of the Farmer's Club. He has just returned to Ray county, from Nebraska, after nine years sojourn there, and having purchased a farm in section eight, township fifty-one, range twenty-eight, intends making his home in this county henceforth during his life.

Stanton R. Lillard

Stanton R. Lillard was born in Madison county, Virginia on the 8th day of May, 1834, and grew up and was educated there. He came to Ray connty, Missouri, in the year 1856, and was engaged for a year, after his arrival here, in teaming. He was then employed by Thomas Duvall as overseer for the negro workman on his farm. In this capacity he remained for another year, and then went back to Virginia, but staying there only during one winter, he came again to Ray county. Mr. Lillard was married on the 10th day of December, 1862, to Miss SEliza J., daughter of Christopher Allison, Esq., of Ray county. He bought a farm the same year in sections seven and eight, township fifty-one, range twenty-eight, and has lived upon it ever since. He afterwards increased the extent of his first purchase, and now owns three hundred and fiftyseven acres of fine land in Ray county. He is also engaged, to some extent, in breeding and dealing in fine stock. Twelve children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Lillard, eight of whom are living, named as follows: John F., born October 11, 1866; Christopher C, born Octcfber 10, 1867; Hattie Jane, born January 17, 1870; Elizabeth C, born March 30, 1874; James W., born September 18, 1875; Ludy May, born September 23, 1877; Robert Lee and Mary Francis, twins, born February 11, 1881; George W., William R., and two unnamed infants, are dead. Mr. Lillard was slightly wounded by the terrible cyclone which passed through Richmond June 1, 1878. He is a member of the order of Patrons of Husbandry and also of a later organization called the Farmer's Club. Mr. Lillard is a practical, successful and prosperous farmer. He has made six visits to his native state since he first came away. In 1876 he made an extended tour through the east and attended the centennial exposition at the city of Philadelphia.

Wm. A. White

William Alexander White was born in Amherst county, Virginia, in the month of May, 1820. He is of English-Irish descent. His father, Mr. Merritt M. White, removed to Ray county, Missouri, in the year 1837, and settled upon a farm which he had entered, four miles north of Camden. His father died in 1861, and our subject subsequently bought the old homestead, but after a while he sold it and bought the place upon which he now resides, in sections four and nine, of township fifty-one, range twenty-eight. This farm consists of three hundred and thirty acres of very fertile and productive soil. Mr. White also owns another tract, of one hundred and forty-four acres, in the same township. He has been a life long farmer, most of the time in Ray county. Wm. A. White was married in the month of November, 1842, to Miss Ann Eliza Williams, daughter of Rev. James Williams, a prominent minister of the Baptist Church, now deceased. Eleven children have been born of this union: Henry Mc, born September 22, 1843; Mary P., born May 21, 1845; George Merritt, born February 7, 1847; Sarah Elizabeth, born September 23, 1848; Martha Ellen, born June 13, 1850; Judith Rosanna, born March 7, 1852; William Andrew, born August 26, 1854; Eliza Anna, born April 5, 1857; John David, born February 25, 1859; Rhoda Frances, born April 19, 1861; Lucy Jane, born August 30, 1863. William A. died September 3, 1856, and Rhoda F. died December 13, 1872. The rest are living, and all married except John D. and Lucy J. As the offspring of these various marriages, Mr. White has some thirty or more grandchildren. Both Mr. and Mrs. White have been members of the regular Baptist Church for more than thirty years. In 1876 Mr. White made an extended tour of the eastern states, and even went into Canada. At different times, during this trip, he visited his old friends in Virginia, the United States centennial exposition, Niagara Falls, and other places of interest in the east.

Thomas A. Brown

Thomas A. Brown was born in Rutherford county, Tennessee, on the 28th day of April, 1815. His father, Thomas B. Brown, removed to Ray county, Missouri, when Thomas was but fifteen years old, and the home of the latter has been in this county ever since. In the year 1835, he entered a farm in section five, township fifty-one, range twenty-eight, and at once began to improve it. He increased the size of this place by subsequent purchases, until now it consists of some three hundred acres of rich and valuable land. He also owns a tract of fifty-five acres on Crooked river. Mr. Brown was married November 22, 1838, to Miss Patsy Crowley, the daughter of Jeremiah Crowley, Esq., of Ray county. They became the parents of fifteen children, only seven of whom are living at this time (April, 1881). Their names follow: William T., Sarah Ann, Jeremiah, John Franklin, Ellen Catharine, Henry, and Harden Alvin. The names of those dead are: Elizabeth, Mahala, James Calvin (killed at the siege of Vicksburg, during the civil war), Nancy Frances, Martha, Joseph Ashley, Thomas B., and an infant son. Mr. Brown took part in both the " Mormon war," and the " Heatherlv war." Both himself and Mrs. Brown are members of the Regular Baptist Church, at New Hope. They joined the church more than thirty-five years ago.

Elijah Stout

The subject of this sketch was born in Culpepper county, Virginia, une 24, 1802. When he was but three years of age, his father, Elijah Stout, Sr., removed to Shelby county, Kentucky, and there our subject was educated and grew up. At the age of thirty-four years he came to Missouri and located in Clay county, where he farmed until the year 1848, and then came to Ray county, Missouri, and bought a farm one mile west of Richmond, known as the Shotwell place. After living upon this farm for seven years, he sold it, purchasing the one upon which he now lives, about five miles southwest of Richmond. He has been all his life engaged in farming. Mr. Stout was married in the year 1826, to Mrs. Nancy Cave, of Woodford county, Kentucky. She died in 1844, and he was again married, to Miss Ann Warder, of Richmond. She, too, died, in 1868, and he was married the third time. His last wife was Miss Lizzie Priest, daughter of Elias Priest, Esq., of Ray county. Mr. Stout belongs to the Missionary Baptist Church, at Albany. He is now well advanced in years. By his enterprise and industry he has earned a competency, and surrounded himself, now, in his declining years, with those material comforts which serve to lengthen out a green old age, and make the evening of life bright and happv.

John Stevinson

John Stevinson is a native of Kentucky. He was born in Clark county, that state, on the 18th day of May, 1827. Here he received his education, and lived until he had attained his majority. He was married in Clark county, on the 24th of August, 1848, to Miss Mary Ann Stone, daughter of Dudley Stone, Esq., of that county. He purchased a farm and conducted business upon it until the spring of 1855, when he sold his farm in Kentucky, and removed to Jackson county, Missouri, and located near Lee's Summit. Here he resided until the war troubles of 1863 came. At this time General Thomas Ewing issued his famous " order number eleven," banishing the people from their homes, and our subject came to Ray county. After renting land for three years, Mr. Stevinson bought a farm in section six, township fifty-one, range twenty-eight, and section one, township fifty-one, range twenty-nine, and has lived there ever since. He has recovered from the losses sustained by the war, and is now in a very prosperous condition. He gives attention chiefly to grain raising, and the breeding of fine varieties of live stock. Nine children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Stevinson, six of whom are living at the present time (April, 1881), named as follows: Mary Elizabeth, Asa, Williamson, James, John, Sarah Mildred. Those dead are: Margaret Ann, Eliza Catherine, and an infant son. Mrs. Stevinson and the eldest daughter belong to the Christian Church.

Willis Worley

This gentleman is a native of Jefferson county, Tennessee, and was born on the 17th of January, 1817. His father, Mr. William Worley, Sr., was a large land owner, and an early settler in Tennessee. At the early age of sixteen years, our subject left home and went to Kentucky. During the succeeding fourteen years he led a very nomadic life as a stock drover to the southern markets. In 1849 he went to Illinois, and farmed for one season, and then returned to Kentucky. He was married on the 27th day of September, 1849, to Miss Eliza J. Ogg, daughter of Mr. William Ogg, of Madison county, Kentucky. This estimable lady was educated in Madison county, Kentucky, and during several years of her life, was engaged in teaching school there. She was a very efficient, successful and popular teacher. Soon after his marriage, Mr. Worley returned to Illinois, and lived there until 1854. In the autumn of that year he came to Missouri, and, after stopping one winter in Lafayette county, settled on a farm three miles northeast of Orrick, in Ray county. In the year 1867 he bought the Wm. Graham farm, adjoining his place, and now has two hundred and twenty acres of valuable land, all in one tract. He added greatly to the beauty and value of his place by erecting, in 1868, a large and commodious dwelling house. Mrs. Worley is a leading member of the Christian Church, at High Point.

L. D. Priest

Luke D. Priest was born in Montgomery county, Kentucky, on the 15th day of May, 1819, and there received his education. After two or three successive removals to different parts of Kentucky, his father," Mr. Elias Priest, in 1835, came to Missouri. He spent the winter after his arrival in Saline county, and the next year came to Ray county and remained here until his death. Luke D. Priest was married in 1841, to Miss Sarah J. Goe, daughter of Mr. Noble Goe, of Ray county. After his marriage he farmed for two or three years near the present town of Haller, then selling his farm there, he purchased the one on which he now resides, five miles southwest of Richmond. With the exception of six years he lived near Todd's chapel, Mr. Priest has occupied his present place ever since he first bought it. He served eight years as justice of the peace in Richmond township. In the fall of 1864, he was elected by the democrats to the office of public administrator of Ray county. At the expiration of the term, two years, the law having undergone a change, he was appointed by the probate court to the office for another term. Thus he filled the office of public administrator for eight consecutive years and discharged the duties efficiently and to the entire satisfaction of his constituency. Since he retired from office, he has given his attention almost exclusively, with the exception of one year he had a brick yard at

Richmond, to farming. Mr. Priest and wife became the parents of twelve children, eight of whom are now living: Margaret J., Sarah A., William D., Charles E., Catlett S., Luke M., Virginia A. and George M. Those dead are: Mary Elizabeth, Robert D., Armand and an infant son. Mr. Priest is a prosperous farmer, a good neighbor and a prominent, highly respected and influential citizen of Ray county.

Elijah Happy

Was born in Fayette county, Kentucky, August 2, 1833. He received his education in the schools of his native county, and at the age of seventeen years came with his father to Missouri, and located in Ray county. Ten years later he operated a saw mill for the space of about four years, and then, buving land a few miles southwest of Richmond, he began farming and has continued in that business ever since. Mr. Happy was married on the 21st day of April, 1853, to Miss Marcella E. Reed, daughter of Mr. David Reed, of Carroll county, Missouri. Eleven children were the issue of this union, six of whom are now living, named as follows: Harvey W., John C, James D., Augustus G., Eddie G. and Ursula Alice. Following are the names of those that are dead: Mary C, Fannie L., Virginia A., Elijah S. and George C. Mr. and Mrs. Happy, with three of their children, are members of the Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Happy is, also, a member of the Richmond Lodge of A. F. & A. M. He owns a fine farm of two hundred acres, in a good state of cultivation; and is one of the most substantial farmers, and valuable citizens of his neighborhood.

George M. Austin

The subject of this sketch was born in Garrard county, Kentucky, August 1, 1829. He remained in his native county, occupied in farming, until the year 1856, when he emigrated to Missouri and stopped first for a few months in Cass county. In the month of February, 1857, he came to Ray county, and located on a farm, southeast of the city of Richmond, where he lived until 1865, and then removed to his present place, (section 5, township 50, range 28). He owns one hundred acres of gocd land, one half of which is in cultivation, with a neat, comfortable residence and other buildings. Mr. Austin served in the local militia, for six months, in time of the late civil war. He was married in Cass county, Missouri, in the month of December, 1856, to Miss Martha S. Bright, a native of Lincoln county, Kentucky. They became the parents of nine children, six of whom are now living: Jefferson, Mary E., Claudia, Katy, Lucy and Pearl. Mr. Austin and his wife are consistent members of the Christian Church. He is a well-to-do farmer, and an influential and public spirited citizen.

James Vandeveer

James Vandeveer is a native of Ray county, Missouri. He was born, December 28, 1850, and has lived, all his life, in this county. His lather, .Louis Vandeveer, is a native of Kentucky, and settled in this county in the year 1839. Mr. Vandeveer has been engaged, since leaving school, at farming. He owns a fine farm of two hundred acres, half of which is in cultivation, and well improved and stocked. He is engaged, to a considerable extent, in raising good breeds of live-stock. He also deals in stock. Mr. Vandeveer was married in this county, February 27, 1873, to Miss Ann Offutt, a native, also, of Ray county, Missouri. They are the parents of five children, living: Perry, Cora, Esley, and Charles. Mr. Vandeveer is a rising and prosperous young farmer and stock-raiser, and a valuable member of the community.

Arthur B. Remley was born in Ray county, Missouri, September 12, 1856. He is the son of Adam and Pulaski H. Remley. His father was a native of Kentucky. His mother was born in Virginia, and is yet living in this county. Mr. Remley was married, in this county, April 18, 1880 to Miss Rachel Jackson, a native of Ray county, Missouri. They became the parents of one child, Arthur R. Mrs. Remley died March 24, 1881, and her untimely death was deeply mourned by her large circle of relatives and friends. Mr. Remley is engaged in farming and stock-raising, and has also taught school with good success. He is an intelligent, active, enterprising young man, and enjoys the confidence and high regard of the community in which he lives.

William Artman

William Artman was born in Ray county, Missouri, September 26, 1832. He attended the district schools of his father's neighborhood, and worked on the homestead farm until he attained his majority, and then went to Bates county, Missouri, where he was engaged in farming for ten years. At the expiration of that time, he removed to Moniteau county, Missouri, and after living there three years, returned to his native county and has resided here continuously ever since. In 1861, while living in Bates county, Mr. Artman enlisted in company C, 2d Confederate Missouri volunteers, and was in the battles of Carthage, Wilson's Creek and others He was discharged in 1862, on account of physical disability for miliitary service. Mr. Artman was married in this county, September 16, 1875, to Miss Letitia Vandeveer, a native of Barton county, Missouri. They have two children: Angeline and Louis. Mr. Artman is a good, successful farmer, and a respected and valuable citizen.

Thaddeus W. Gorton was born in Steuben county, New York, April 30, 1834. He received his education and grew to manhood in his native state, and then in the year 1858, he went to Green Bay, Wisconsin, and, after remaining there for a time, went to Atchison, Kansas, where he was engaged during the space of four years, in the lumber business. From Kansas he went to Idaho territory, and spent about two years prospecting and exploring in the Rocky mountains, at the expiration of which time he returned to Kansas, and came from there to Ray county, Missouri, in the autumn of 1869, and has resided in this county ever since. He is now engaged in farming and operating a large saw mill. He owns 500 acres of excellent land, 200 acres in cultivation and the balance in pasture and wood lands. He has a good, comfortable residence, and his farm is well stocked and equipped. Mr. Gorton was married August 19, 1868, to Miss Diana Black, a native of the state of Kentucky. They are the parents of one child : Charles L. Mr. Gorton devotes some considerable attention to stock raising, and his farm is well adapted to make that business very successful. He is a valuable member of the community anda good citizen.

Robert B. Haligan was born in Fayette county, Kentucky, March 11, 1856. His parents, William G. and D. A. Haligan, were also natives of the state of Kentucky. They removed, when Robert was fourteen years of age, to Ray county, Missouri, and settled upon the same farm he now occupies. His father died in 1873, and his mother the year following. Mr. Haligan was married on the 14th day of June, 1874, in this county, to Miss Martha Farris, a native of Ray county. They have one child, Robert P. The subject of this sketch has been engaged in farming and stock-raising in this county ever since leaving school. He owns a third interest in his father's homestead, a line farm of three hundred acres of valuable land, about two hundred acres in a fine state of cultivation and enclosed by good substantial fences. This farm is improved by a comfortable and conveniently arranged dwelling house, a substantial and roomy barn, and other buildings. It is also supplied with an abundance of water for the accommodation of stock, and has a thrifty, bearing orchard. Mr. Haligan is a rising young farmer, and enjoys the confidence and esteem of all who know him. He is' now serving as justice of the peace, to which office he was appointed by the county court in March, 1881.

Andrew J. Riffe

The gentleman whose name heads this article is a native of Casey county, Kentucky. He is the son of John and Mary Riffe, and was born on the 6th day of April, 1828. His parents removed to Missouri and settled in Ray county when he was eleven years of age, and he was educated and grew up in this count)-. In the month of April, 1850, in company with five other young men from the same vicinity, he 'went, with the hope of bettering his fortunes, to the gold mines of the far west. After spending six months in a tedious overland trip, suffering great hardships, and running the gauntlet of hostile bands of Indians, he and his companions arrived in California. Mr. Riffe remained in California and other parts of the west, until July, 1851, and then returned to his home in Ray county. He owns an excellent farm of two hundred and forty acres, about one hundred and sixty acres in cultivation, forty acres in pasture, and the remainder woodland. His farm is under good substantial fences, well watered and in a fine state of productiveness. It lies conveniently near good schools, churches and markets. Mr. Riffe was married February 6, 1854, to Miss Angeline Dorton, a native of the state of Kentucky. They became the parents of eight children, only three of whom are now living: Charles, Lizzie and Archie. Mr. Rifle and his wife are active members of the Christian Church. He is a prosperous farmer and a valuable and influential citizen.

Ethbert M. Endsley

Ethbert M. Endsley was born in Ray county, Missouri, June 18, 1834. He is the son of John and Hannah Endsley. His father first came to this county about the year 1819. The subject of this sketch lived on his father's farm until the spring of 1852, when he went to California, and engaged there in mining and other pursuits during about five years, returning to this count)- in 1857. Having been occupied so long (nearly six months), in going to California overland, he chose the ocean route on the return trip, sailing from San Francisco to the Isthmus of Panama, and returning home from there by boat. In 1864, Mr. Endsley went to Salt Lake City, Utah, and thence to Montana Territory, where he engaged for about a year in freighting with teams, after which he came back again to this county, and has lived here ever since. Mr. Endsley owns a good stock farm of four hundred and eighty-three acres, about ninety acres of tillable land, and the balance in pasture and woodlands. He is largely engaged in raising the best breeds of live stock, and pays particular attention to Short-horn cattle. His farm is handsomely improved, and well arranged and conducted. It bears a thrifty and prosperous appearance. Mr. Endsley has been twice married. First, December 27, 1857, in this county, to Miss Eliza M. Vance, a native of the state of North Carolina. They became the parents of nine children, seven of whom are now living, viz: Amanda, Alice B., Ethbert M., John N., Everett, Fanny, Eliza M. Mrs. Endsley died in the month of June, 1873, and he was again married, September 15, 1875, to Mariah L. Owens, a native of Ray county, Missouri. Both Mr. Endsley and his wife are leading members of the Christian Church. He is also a member of the Masonic fraternity, of the Grange and of the Farmers' Club. He is a highly esteemed citizen, and a valuable member of the community.

Zaza D. Ralph

Zaza D. Ralph is a native of Ray county, Missouri. He was born November 27, 1830. He received his education and grew up to manhood's estate in his native county. In 1864, he went to the great west and spent seven months on the plains, returning again to this county. He was married December 24, 1850, to Miss Martha A. Simpson, a native of Virginia, born February 1, 1836. They became the parents of seven children: Mary, born December 12, 1851; Jessie B., born July 20, 1854; Ella, born August 7, 1857; Lucy A., born November 10, 1860; Fanny A., born March 1, 1864; Zula D., born August 6, 1866; Laura L., born June 5, 1869. Mr. Ralph owns a fine farm of six hundred and forty acres, six hundred acres enclosed by good fences and about four hundred acres in cultivation. This farm is handsomely improved and well stocked with the best breeds of horses, mules, cattle, hogs and sheep. He pays particular attention to raising fine cattle and has made that branch of his business very successful and profitable. He is also engaged in buying and selling live stock. Mr. Ralph and his wife with their eldest daughter are members of the Christian Church. He is also a member of the Masonic fraternity and of the Grange. Mr. Ralph is a prosperous farmer and stock dealer and influential citizen, and a man highly respected and esteemed in the community.

Richard. W. Bates

The subject of this sketch was born in Ray county, Missouri, February 14, 1847. His parents were William and Zerilda Bates. His father is a native of Virginia, he came from that state to Ray county, in the year 1835, and is yet living here in his sixty-seventh year. His mother (Zerilda) was born in the state of Kentucky. Our subject remained at home, with his parents, working on the farm in summer, and attending such schools as he could have access to, in the winter, until he attained his majority. Richard W. Bates was married in the month of January, 1871, by Rev. Mr. New'land, of the M. E. Church, to Miss Mary Miller. She lived only about eighteen months after marriage, and her early demise was much lamented by a large circle of friends and relatives. Mr. Bates was again married March 22, 1877, by Rev. J. M. Wheeler, of the Baptist Church, to Miss P. Gaut, daughter of Joshua R. and Winnie A. Gaut, natives of the state of North Carolina. She was born in Ray county, Missouri, March 18, 1846. One child has been born to Mr. and Mrs. Bates, named, Sallie, date of birth, October 30, 1871. Mr. Bates owns one hundred and fifty-four acres of good land, one hundred and fifteen acres under cultivation, the rest growing timber of good quality. He is also engaged, to a considerable extent, in raising and feeding live stock. Mr. Bates is a practical, successful farmer, and a good citizen.

Rev. William C. Garrett

William C. Garrett was born in Pulaski county, Kentucky, April 23, 1823, and continued to live there, with his parents, until he was fifteen years of age. The family then emigrated from Kentucky to Jackson county, Missouri, where they lived during one summer, and then removed to Buchanan county, Missouri. Mr. Garrett was married on the 20th day of February, 1840, by Reverend Benjamin Riley, of the Christian Church, to Miss Milly Kerns, who was born in Russell county, Kentucky, January 13, 1821. Five children have been born to bless this union. Their names, with dates of birth, follow: James M., born May 25, 1841; John W., born May 2, 1843; Sarah J., born March 26, 1845; Mary A., born June 1, 1849; William F., born October 26, 1857. In the year 1845 our subject moved to Andrew county, Missouri, where he lived three years, and then went to DeKalb county, Missouri, and remained there until 1854, when he removed to Henry county, Missouri. From there he went to Jefferson county, Kansas, and thence, after a time, to Pottawattamie county, Kansas, where he lived until 1874, and then came to Ray county, Missouri, where he located permanently, and has since resided. Mr. Garrett has been an active minister of the Regular Baptist Church for more than thirty-eight years. In the discharge of his ministerial labors he has traveled thousands of miles, and often been subjected to great hardships. Often he was compelled to walk long distances - sometimes as far as sixty miles - to keep an appointment that had been made for him to preach. His life has been that of the pioneer preacher, and he has wrought well and faithfully in the vineyard where the Master assigned him work. He is a very successful preacher, and is universally respected and revered by the members of his flock.

Dr. H. B. Hamilton

Henry B. Hamilton was born in Lincoln county, Kentucky, July 18, 1822. His parents, Thomas and Rachel Hamilton, were also natives of Kentucky, and immigrated from that state to Ray county, Missouri, when Henry was about ten years old. After completing the course of study taught in the schools of his adopted county, our subject returned to Kentucky and entered the medical department of Transylvania University, and graduated from that institution of learning in 1847. He returned to Ray county and commenced the practice of his chosen profession, and has continued it ever since with abundant success. Dr. Hamilton was married May 8, 1849, to Miss Elizabeth R. Craig, by Rev. John Walker of the Christian Union Church, in Ray county, Missouri. Mrs. Hamilton is the daughter of John and Susannah Craig. She was born December 25, 1833. Her father was a native of the state of Pennsylvania, her mother of North Carolina. Dr. and Mrs. Hamilton became the parents of two children : Charles L., born October 22, 1858; Claude C, born April 17, 1866. Dr. Hamilton was engaged in merchandising in company with J. R. Green, at Hainesvill, in Clinton county, Missouri, from 1853 to 1857. He then occupied and improved a tract of land which he had entered in Caldwell county, Missouri. This farm he exchanged for a stock of goods and engaged in merchandising again for about a year, at Kingston, Caldwell county, and then came to Richmond and engaged in the same business for the space of one year. He then returned to his farm where he has ever since lived, occupied in attending to the duties of his large practice. His son Charles L., graduated from the St. Louis Medical College in the spring of 1880, and is now associated with his father in the practice of medicine. Both father and son belong to the allopathic school of medicine.

James O. Killgrove was born in Carroll county, Arkansas, June 6, 1846. His parents were John H. and Lucinda C. Killgrove, natives of North Carolina. Our subject continued to live at home with his parents, until the commencement of the civil war. He enlisted in company A, second Arkansas volunteer cavalry, which was assigned to service in Arkansas and Missouri, against the army of the Confederate General Price. He was discharged May 17, 1865, at St. Louis. His father had removed to he Perry county, Illinois, during his term of service in the army, and hither went, after being discharged, to join the family. After living in Illinois for three years, he went back to Arkansas, and was there married, in Johnson county, to Miss Mary A. Barnett, June 9, 1872, by Rev. Mr. Canada, of the M. E. Church. Mrs. Killgrove was born January 30, 1847. She is the daughter of Josephus and Jane R. Barnett, natives of the state of Tennessee. Mr. and Mrs. Killgrove became the parents of five children: Ellsworth L., born March 16, 1873; T. E., born January 21, 1875; Winona A., born January 28, 1877; Osborne E., born January 28, 1879. Ellsworth died August 19, 1874. In 1873 he immigrated to the state of Texas, where he lived for more than two years, and then returned to Ray county, Missouri, and has since lived here. Mr. Killgrove owns a neat, nicely improved farm, and is doing a thriving business. He is highly regarded by all of the community in which he lives, and is a valuable and influential citizen.

Issa H. Nation

Is the son of W. K. and Nancy Nation. He was born in Daviess county, Missouri, January 31, 1851. His father was a native of Kentucky, and his mother of Missouri. Our subject left home at the age of nineteen years, and going to Polk county, Missouri, engaged in herding stock there, for about eighteen months, and then returned to Daviess county. Mr. Nation was married February 11, 1877, to Miss Maria McGhee, the daughter of William and Orlatha McGhee. She was born May 30, 1853. The issue of this marriage has been three children, two of whom are now living: Lorenzo, born February 11, 1878; George R., born March 14, 1881. The principal occupation of our subject has always been farming, though he has engaged at carpentering also, at different times during life. Both Mr. Nation and his wife are leading members of the Missionary Baptist Church at Rockfall. He is a thrifty, enterprising and successful farmer and good citizen.

Thomas S. Vaughn

Is a native of Lincoln county, Kentucky, and was born April, 1822. His parents were Newman and Precia Vaughn, natives of the state of North Carolina. When Thomas was fifteen years of age, his parents moved to Bond county, Illinois, and resided there until 1846, when our subject returned to Kentucky, and remained there three years, and then went to California. From that state he traveled for about six years, going to the Sandwich Islands, in the Pacific Ocean, and to other places of interest. Returning once more to his native state, he remained there for a short time, and then removed to Illinois for a time. From Illinois he came to Ray county, Missouri, and located where he now lives, and pursued the avocation of cabinet- making for about fifteen years. Since that time he has been engaged in the business of farming. In the month of April, 1857, Mr. Vaughn was married to Miss Sarah A. McCullum, daughter of Williamson and Mary J. McCullum, natives of Tennessee. The marriage ceremony was performed by Reverend Samuel P. Johnson, of the Christian Church. The result of this union has been five children, all but one of whom are living: Laura, born February, 1858 (now the wife of W. J. Craig); Josie E., born August, 1872; Charlie T., born February, 1875; John R., born November, 1880. Both Mr. Vaughn and his wife are members of the Christian Church, and also of the Crab Orchard Grange, P. of H. Mr. Vaughn owns a fine fertile farm, well improved, and in a good state of cultivation. He is a valuable citizen, and is held in universal respect and esteem by his neighbors.

Lilburn C. Harris

This gentleman was born in East Tennessee on the 20th day of November, 1830. When he was only two years old, his parents, James and Jane Harris, also natives of Tennessee, immigrated with him to Howard county, Missouri, and after a short time spent there, to Ray county, where the family located permanently, on the farm where our subject now resides. His father died when Lilburn was but fourteen years old, and the care and support of the family devolved, in a large measure, upon him. The family consisted of eight persons, and young Lilburn's duties at home were too arduous to allow him much time for attending school, and his education was, in consequence, somewhat limited. At the age of twenty years, Mr. Harris was married, in February, 1850, to Miss Mary Clark, by John E. Wells, justice of the peace. After his marriage he was engaged at farming until the outbreaking of the civil war. In 1862 he was enrolled in the militia and served until 1864, when he enlisted in company B, 44th Missouri regiment of volunteer infantry. He participated in the battles of Duck River, Springhills, Franklin, Nashville, Cedar Point, and Spanish Fort. He was discharged August 15, 1865, and immemediately returned home to his family. His wife died in August, 1866, leaving him with seven young children. He was again married, April 10, 1867, by Judge McKissack, of Ray county, to Miss Salina J. Veach. She too, died, after becoming the mother of two children, June 29, 1869, and Mr. Harris was married the third time, November 20, 1880, to Miss Margaret A. Clark, sister of his first wife. This ceremony was performed by William Brown, justice of the peace. The third Mrs. Harris was born March 30, 1832. She is the daughter of R. and Nancy Clark. Her father was a native of Kentucky, and her mother of North Carolina. Ten children have been born to Mr. Harris by his different marriages, seven of whom are now living and three dead. Their names with dates of birth are as follows: Sarah E., born July 6, 1851; Elijah J., born November 4, 1852; Margaret, born February 21, 1856; Marcus L., born July 7, 1861; Nancy E., born August 14, 1864;.Benuretta, born December 30, 1867; Willemetta, born May 30, 1869; Hannah A., born January 13, 1858, died January 19, 1872; Julia F., born September 30, 1854, died, May,

1873; Georgia A., born May 5, 1859, died July 19, 1872. Mrs. Harris is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. James Harris, father of our subject, was born January 17, 1804, and died September 25, 1844. His mother (Jane), was born August 4, 1810, and died in the month of February, 1878.

William McKissack was born in Cocke county, Tennessee, September 1, 1812. His parents removed when he was only seven years old to Missouri, and, locating first in Saline county, lived there for three years, and then came to Ray county, and settled upon the same place where Judge McKissack now lives. Our subject was educated in the schools of this county, and remained at home with his parents until nineteen years of age, and then commenced farming on his own account. In the month of December, 1832, William McKissack was married to Miss Rachel Odell, by Elder Turnadge, of Ray county. Mrs. McKissack is the daughter of Isaac and Nancy Odell, natives of Tennessee. She was born in the month of December, 1815, in the state of Indiana, whither her parents had removed. Ten children have been born to Judge and Mrs. McKissack, only four of whom are now living. John enlisted in company B, 44th Missouri volunteers, and died at New Orleans April 11, 1865, and was buried there. Simon enlisted in the 3d regiment of Missouri cavalry, in which he was orderly sergeant, and was killed June 8, 1862, at the battle of Springfield. His remains were brought home and interred in the Odell cemetery. Sarah, who married George P. Clevinger, is now deceased. Isaac is also dead. James enlisted in company B, 44th regiment Missouri volunteer infantr}-, and was killed in the engagement at Franklin, Tennessee, and buried on the battle-field. Martha married James Woods, and is now living near her father's home. William is married, and lives in Vernon county, Missouri. Mary Ann married John Connerford, and now lives in Kansas. Moses is unmarried, and still at home with his parents. Two children, unnamed, died in infancy. William McKissack was judge of the county court of this county for ten years. He has also served as justice of the peace for a number of years. He and Mrs. McKissack are leading members of the Missionary Baptist Church. Judge McKissack is one of the oldest, most highly respected, prominent and influential citizens of Ray county.

J. D. Rowland

Jesse D. Rowland is the son of D. and Rachel Rowland, and was born in the territory of Indiana, September 6, 1816. While an infant his parents removed with him to Missouri, and located in Saline county, where they lived for three years, and then came to Ray county and set- tied on a farm (section three, township fifty-two, range twenty-nine), where our subject resided until his marriage. He was married March 1, 1839, to Miss Mary P. Lyman, by Hiram Warner, of the Christian Church. Mrs. Rowland is the daughter of Asa and Sarah Lyman, natives of the state of New Hampshire, who immigrated to Missouri in the year 1840. She '*vas born February 7, 1818. The issue of this union was twelve children, three of whom are now dead. Their names and dates of birth follow, viz: Lyman H., born October 2, 1841; Rhoda, born March 3, 1843; George R., born January 16, 1845; Willard J., born December 18, 1846; Clarissa J., born January 24, 1849; Mary E., born November 25, 1851; Jesse D., born October 2, 1852; Rachel, born October 17, 1854; Asa D., born July 7, 1860; Maria L., born April 10, 1840, and died in 1869; Milly M., born May 12, 1857, died May, 1876; Thomas E., born April 28, 1859, died August 23, 1860. Mr. and Mrs. Rowland united with the old school Baptist Church in the year 1838 and he is, also, a member of the Albany Grange, P. of H. Mr. Rowland has been a lifelong farmer and now owns an excellent farm, well improved and stocked with good breeds of live stock. His business is very prosperous and he enjoys the confidence and respect of all who know him.

Franklin J. Ross

The subject of this sketch was born in Casey county, Kentucky, May 17, 1831. His parents were Matthias and Adaline Ross. His father was born in Duchess county, New York, and his mother in Lincoln county, Kentucky. In the year 1833, his parents removed to Illinois, and after living in that state for ten years, to Ray county, Missouri, and settled near where the village of Albany now stands. Our subject remained at home and engaged in working on the farm until he was eighteen years of age, and then went out into the world to fight the battle of life for himself. He began at first laboring for wages upon the farms of his neighbors and continued working in this way until 1850, when he went to California and engaged there in mining for about eighteen months with fair success. He returned home by water via the Panama route. Franklin J. Ross was married March 20, 1855, to Miss Hannah Riffe. Two daughters were born of this union. Mrs. Ross died June 4, 1864, and Mr. Ross was again married October 9, 1866, to Miss Amanda Brosher. They became the parents of one daughter; and, after living about five years after her marriage the second Mrs. Ross, also died January 27, 1872. Our subject was married the third time, June 1, 1874, to Miss Alice Roselle. Mr. Ross was principally engaged in farming until 1870, when he began merchandising at the town of Orrick and has since continued in that business, very successfully, at the same place. He has three daughters. Mary J., was married to Mr. William Richie and is now living in Utah Territory.

Laura died March 16, 1881. The youngest, Amanda, born March 16, 1871, is living at home with her parents. Mr. Ross is a popular, prosperous business man and a valuable citizen.

Henry C. Perdue

Henry C. Perdue was born in Buckingham county, Virginia, October 12, 1836, and is the son of Josiah and Virginia Perdue, natives of the same state. The family emigrated to Missouri in the year 1845, and settled on a farm in Ray county. His father died in 1859, and our subject, in consequence, received only limited advantages for acquiring an education. Mr. Perdue was married on the 1st day of June, 1861, to Miss Mary E. Ballard, daughter of W. H. and Jane Ballard, natives of Albemarle county, Virginia. Five children, now living, were born to Mr. and Mrs. Perdue. Their names, with dates of birth, are the following: Henry D., born March 3, 1863; Minnie, born February 27, 1865; Mary E., born December 12, 1868; Emmett, born August 3,1873; Melvin,born July 28, 1877. Mrs. Perdue died April 26, 1879. She was a very estimable lady, greatly beloved by her friends, and her death was deeply mourned by her bereaved husband and family. Prior to the year 1861, Mr. Perdue was engaged almost exclusively in farming. At the commencement of the war between the states, he joined his fortunes with the cause of the south, and enlisted in company A, commanded by Captain (afterward Lieutenant-Colonel) Reeves. He participated in the battles of Carthage and Wilson's Creek, besides other skirmishes. At the last named fight he received a wound, which disabled him, and he was absent, in consequence, from the command until Christmas, following the date of the battle. He was discharged at Springfield, Missouri, in January, 1862, and returned home to this county, where he was soon after taken by the Federal authorities, and thrown into prison at Lexington, from which he was subsequently paroled. Mr. Perdue is now engaged in business in company with Mr. M. S. Laforgee, at Orrick, in this county, under the firm name of Perdue & Laforgee, druggists.

Milton S. Leforgee was born in Fleming county, Kentucky, October 2, 1840. His parents were Nathan and Mary Leforgee, natives of the state of Kentucky. He received his education in his native county, and remained there at home with his parents, until outbreaking of the civil war. Then he joined the Confederate army, and fought bravely throughout the entire war, in defense of the cause he honestly believed to be just, and in the interest of the sunny land he loved so well. In company C, second (Kentucky) battalion of mounted rifles, he participated in the following battles: Louisa, (Kentucky) Chicamauga, McMinville, Anderson's

Cross Roads, Cove Gap, King's Salt Works, Cleveland, (Tennessee,) Charleston, (Tennessee) Mt. Sterling, (Kentucky) Smithville, besides numerous skirmishes. He was discharged May 3, 1865, and at once returned to his home in Kentucky. He emigrated to Missouri, in 1869, and settled in Ray county. He is now engaged in partnership with Mr. H. C. Perdue, in the drug business, at the town of Orrick. Messrs. Perdue and Leforgee, are thrifty, enterprising, popular and successful business men.

D. A. Rhodes

Dennis A. Rhodes was born in Franklin county, Pennsylvania, June 13, 1847. His parents were William P. and Henrietta S. Rhodes. His father was born in Montgomery county, Maryland, and his mother in Accomac county, Virginia. In the year 1857, when our subject was ten years of age, the family removed to Hagerstown, Maryland. Here, Dennis was educated at the Academy in that place, an excellent institution. After living at Hagerstown for ten years, he emigrated to Ray county, Missouri, and settled at Orrick. He engaged as clerk with J. G. Brown, a merchant of that place, and continued in the duties of that position for two years and a half, and then went to Richmond, Virginia, and spent three months with his brother, who was doing business in that city. At the end of that time his brother sold his property in the city of Richmond and came with our subject to Orrick (this county), where they, in partnership, opened a general merchandise store, and conducted it together, for one year. Then, his brother removed to Camden, Ray county, and Dennis Rhodes continued the business alone. He was married, September 3, 1877, to Miss Isabella Rothwick, daughter of William and Matilda Rothwick. She was born in Center county, Pennsylvania, in March, 1853. They are the parents of two children: Mareb A., born, March 8, 1879; Matilda R., born, May 20, 1880. In addition to his general merchandise business, Mr. Rhodes is also conducting a large hardware store. He carries stock to the amount of $7,000.00, and also owns the lots upon which his stores are situated. He has a comfortable and conveniently appointed home, and is in a very prosperous condition. He is a leading member of Albany lodge, No. 444, A. F. & A. M.

George W. Mitchell

The young gentleman whose name heads this sketch was born in Mason county, Kentucky, November 1Q, 1852. His parents were George W. and Minerva Mitchell, also natives of the state of Kentucky. The family emigrated to Ray county, Missouri, in the year 1859, and located on a farm in the vicinity of the town of Orrick. In the acquisition of an education, our subject was afforded only such advantages as the common schools of the neighborhood possessed. After leaving school young Mitchell engaged in various avocations until two years ago, when he entered the hardware and agricultural implement trade at Orrick, in which business he has been engaged with good success ever since. He is an accommodating, popular and rising merchant, and although young in years, is possessed of good, practical judgment, and a degree of business acumen seldom seen in men of more mature years. He can not fail of abundant success in the future.

Elijah B. Bailey

Elijah B. Bailey was born in Casey county, Kentucky, September 27, 1829. He is the son of Samuel and Rebecca Bailey. His father was born in Lincoln county, Kentucky; his mother, in Nelson county, Virginia. Mr. Bailey received his education, and grew up in his native state. He learned the trade of a saddler and harness-maker, in the town of Danville, Kentucky, and in the year 1853, emigrated to Missouri, and, finally, located at Orrick, in Ray county, and has ever since lived there. Mr. Bailey was first married, August 12, 1855, to Miss Miriam T. Stanley, the daughter of Larkin and Elizabeth Stanley, natives of the state of North Carolina. Mrs. Bailey died in January, 1861, and Mr. Bailey was again married, in September, of that year, to Mrs. Betty S. Ross, daughter of Thomas and Nancy Anderson, natives of Tennessee. The second Mrs. Bailey lived twelve years after her marriage, dying December 18, 1873. Mr. Bailey was married the third time, September 17, 1874, to Mrs. Elizabeth Good, daughter of William and Sallie Roberts, natives of Adair county, Kentucky. Mr. Bailey has seven children living, and two dead. Their names, with dates of births and deaths, follow: George L., born June 18, 1860; Edmond S., born December 22, 1862; William T., born February 6, 1865; Kate L., born February 10, 1868; Bettie B., born March 25, 1871; Lucetta G., born December 9, 1873; Dora, born September 4, 1876; Benjamin F., died in 1876, and Jennie in 1879. In the year 1869 Mr. Bailey made a visit to Kentucky, and spent two years in that state. He is now engaged in the saddle and harness manufacturing business at Orrick. He commands a large patronage, and is an excellent workman.

W. R. Erwin

William R. Erwin was born in Oneida county, New York, on the 5th day of February, 1847. At the early age of fourteen years, he enlisted in company K, 146th New York regiment of Zouave volunteers, as a private, and was engaged in the battles of Fredricksburg, Chancellorsville, second Bull Run, Culpepper C. H., Gettysburg, Wilderness, Spottsylvania C. H., Fort Wagoner, Cold Harbor, Fort Fisher, and numerous skirmishes. He was discharged in the month of June, 1865, at Raleigh, North Carolina, and returned to his home in the state of New York. Soon after, he went to Montana Territory, and engaged as clerk in a store there, for two years. He then went to the state of Texas, and, after staying there for a short time, to Colorado. From there he came to Kansas City, Missouri, in the year 1870, and the same year he went to Indian Territory, where he remained for two years, and then, returning to Missouri, located at the town of Orrick, in this county, where he has since resided. Mr. Erwin was married, in the month of February, 1877, to Miss Sarah E. Sheppard, daughter of David and Mariah Sheppard, natives of the state of Kentucky. Mr. and Mrs. Erwin have one child, Lawrence, born April 14, 1879. Mr. Erwin is now dealing in groceries and provisions, at Orrick, and commands a good patronage.

The subject of this sketch is a native of Ray county, Missouri, and was born January 12, 1847. His parents were W. J. and Julia A. Pigg. His father was born in the state of Kentucky. N. B. Pigg was educated in the schools of this county, and lived with his parents, working on the farm until he was twenty-five years of age. He was married, December 25, 1874, to Miss Mary Embree, daughter of Benjamin and S. E. Embree, natives of the state of Kentucky. She was born July 4, 1854. From 1870 to 1873, Mr. Pigg clerked in the dry goods store of E. T. Dardon. His father then bought an interest in the store, and our subject was employed to conduct it one year longer. At the expiration of that time he returned to the farm, and was engaged in farming during about six years. He then engaged in the general merchandise and agricultural trade at Orrick, and is still successfully conducting that business. Mr. and Mrs. Pigg have one child Alice, born November 17, 1875. Mr. Pigg is a member of Ada Lodge, No. 444, A. F. and A. M. He is a staunch business man, and a highly respected and valuable citizen of the town of Orrick.

William A. Wells

This gentlemen was born in Ray county, Missouri, July 24, 1843. He is the son of John and Sarah Wells. His father was born in North Carolina and his mother in Tennessee. Our subject attended the schools of this county in his youth, and worked on his father's farm until he was twenty-eight years of age, and then clerked in a store for four years, at the end of which time he opened a family grocery store on his own account, and conducted it for three years. He then returned to farming for about a year, and then served as constable, to which office he had been elected, for two years. He then returned to mechandising, at Orrick, and is yet so engaged. Mr. Wells was married January 16, 1873, to Miss Cor- nelia B. Sheppard, daughter of D. B. and Minerva Sheppard, natives of the state of Kentucky. Mr. and Mrs. Wells have adopted Anna, daughter of Andrew J. and Lorena Wells.

Ella S. Dorton

The subject of this sketch was born in Knox county, Kentucky, April 6, 1837. Her parents were James B. and Sallie B. Dorton. Her father was a native of Virginia, and her mother of the state of Kentuckv. The family came to this county when our subject was twelve years of age, and settled upon a farm, (section twenty-three, township fifty-one, range twenty-nine), where Orrick is now situated. Schools were few and far apart in those days, and such as were accessible to Miss Dorton, did not come up to the standard of excellence since established in the county, but she made the most of her advantages, and her naturally strong and vigorous mind, supplied by close and diligent application, the inefficiency of teachers, and the want of better books and more modern " aids to education." Having exhausted the course in the schools of her father's neighborhood, and carefully studied such books as came within her reach, she began to teach, in the district schools, for the laudable purpose of securing means sufficient to defray the expenses of higher education. She taught school for two years in the district where she now resides, and then entered the Catholic school of the Sacred Heart, an excellent institution, at St. Joseph, Missouri. After she had attended this school for two years, her further education was interrupted and permanently broken off, by the death of her father, which occurred April 30, 1863. She left the school of the Sacred Heart, and entered upon the honorable profession of teaching as her life work, and she has ever since battled nobly in the cause of popular education. She has met with very flattering success in the school room, and her services are much sought after. Miss Dorton inherited, and now owns a portion of her father's homestead.

Richard H. McWhorter is a native of Adair county, Kentucky, and was born September 7, 1844. He received his education and remained at home on a farm until eighteen years of age, and then enlisted in company C, 13th regiment of Kentucky cavalry, commanded by Col. J. W. Wetherfold, army of the Cumberland. He participated in the battles of King's saltworks, Virginia; Perry ville, Kentucky, and Lebanon, Tennessee, besides many skirmishes. He was discharged January 10, 1865, at Camp Nelson, Kentucky, and went home to Adair county and engaged in farming for about five years. He then went, for a time, to Collin county, Texas, whence he came to Ra}r county, Missouri. Mr. McWhorter was married August 13, 1871, to Miss Laura Brasher, daughter of A. D. and

Elizabeth Brasher. She was born in Ray county, Missouri, January 27, 1851. The issue of this union was two children: Elizabeth S., born December 2, 1873; Charles A., born March 9, 1875. Our subject is the son of R. W. and Elizabeth McWhorter, natives of the state of Kentucky. He is a member of Ada Lodge No. 444, A. F. & A. M.

David B. Shepard was born in Fleming county, Kentucky, March 13, 1832. He is the son of Robert and Lydia Shepard, also natives of the state of Kentucky. He lived in his native state until the year 1865, and then immigrated to Marion county, Indiana. After remaining there for about three years he came to Ray county, Missouri, and has ever since resided here. Mr. Shepard was married December 9, 1853, to Miss Minerva Todd, daughter of John and Mary Todd. Her father was a native of Ireland, and her mother of the state of Kentucky. Mrs. Shephard was born in 1834, in Kentucky. Our subject was reared on a farm and continued in the business of farming until 1860, when he began keeping hotel, etc. At the commencement of the civil war he enlisted in company C, second Kentucky mounted rifles, and engaged in the battles of Louisa, Kentucky, Cove Gap, Chicamauga, McMinville, and Anderson's Cross Roads, where he was captured and imprisoned at Camp Morton, for nineteen months. He was finally released from prison and returned to his family. He lost all his property by the war. Mr. and Mrs. Shepard have four children living, one dead: Lydia, Cordelia B., Mary F., Sallie. and Martha dead. Mr. Shepard was mayor of the town or Orrick for three years, and is at present a member of the city council of that town.

M. G. Taylor

M. G. Taylor is a native of Ray county, Missouri, born September 28, 1838. He is the son of Daniel and Hannah Taylor. His father was born in the month of September, 1802, in Halifax county, Virginia. His mother was born in Missouri. Our subject was reared on a farm and continued living and working at home until he was twenty-four years of age and then went to learn the business of milling in the Albany mills. Mr. Taylor was married March IS, 1873, to Miss Mary Brasher, daughter of A. D. and Elizabeth Brasher. She was born in the year 1842, in Ray county, Missouri. The issue of this marriage was the following children: Ollie, born January 12, 1864: Alice, born April 11, 1866; Lucy, born December 1,1869; Lena, born February 9, 1873; Edna, born February - , 1876; Maud, born December 11, 1874, died in February, 1875; Herbert, born May 25, 1878. Mr. Taylor is a member of Ada Lodge, No. 444, A. F. & A. M., and also a member of the Christian Church. He is, also, in addition to his milling business, conducting a general merchandise and hardware store, at Albany. His business is in a highly prosperous condition and Mr. Taylor is universally popular with his large circle of friends, respected and esteemed by the community at large.

Thomas A. Rothrock was born in the city of New York, July 2, 1855. His parents were Alexander and Ellen Rothrock. His father was a native of New York and his mother of the state of Pennsylvania. The family immigrated from New York to Ray county, Missouri, when Thomas was only five years old. He was educated in this county, and after leaving school, engaged in clerking for different stores for a number of years. Mr. Rothrock was married November 22, 1874, to Miss Florence Wall, daughter of Van and Margaret Wall. Her father was born in Ray county and her mother in Boone county, Missouri. She was born July 22, 1857, in this county. Mr. and Mrs. Rothrock have three children: Bessie, born April 9, 1875; Clardie, born November 18, 1876; Ernest, born April 26, 1880. Alexander Rothrock, father of our subject, was born November 12, 1815, and died February 3, 1881, at Albany. Thomas A. Rothrock is conducting a drug and grocerv store at Albany. He commands a good trade and is doing well.

Edward T. Dorton

Is a native of Russell county, Virginia, and was born on the 3d day of August, 1830. His parents were Joseph and Martha Dorton, natives of Virginia. His father was born July 19, 1795; died July 20, 1870. His mother was born April 15, 1807, and died February 12, 1871. Our subject finished his education at Emery and Henry College, and then began teaching school. In the year 1852 he came to Missouri, first living four years in Calloway county, and then settling permanently in Ray county. June 17, 1861, Mr. Dorton enlisted in company A, loth Arkansas volunteer infantry, and participated in the battles of Pea Ridge and Wilson's Creek. At the latter fight he was captured bv the enemy, and taken to Camp Douglass at Chicago; was afterward exchanged at Jackson, Mississippi. He was again taken prisoner at Walnut Grove, Arkansas, but was fortunate in escaping from his captors. He was paroled, April 12, 1865, at Pea Ridge, and went to Illinois, where he remained about ten months, and then came back to Ray county, where he has lived ever since. Mr. Dorton was married April 16, 1867, to Miss Pauline Dorton, daughter of James B. and Sallie Dorton. She was born May 15, 1849, in Knox county, Kentucky. The issue of this marriage has been one child: Clementina, born November 8, 1868. Soon after his marriage Mr. Dor- ton opened a general merchandise store at Albany, and continued the business there for one year, and then moved to Sibley, Jackson county, and, after keeping store in that place for about twelve months, removed to Orrick, Ray county, and has ever since conducted the business with good success and prosperity there. Mr. Dorton is' a member of Ada Lodge, No. 344, A. F. & A. M., at Albany.

William N. Kirkham

Was born in Montgomery county, Missouri, November 1, 1847. He is the son of David and Ann Kirkham, natives of the state of Virginia. His father was born in the month of February, 1820, and died May 8, 1873 Our subject was engaged at work for his father, who was a manufacturer of tobacco, until he attained his majority. Mr. Kirkham was married December 22, 1869, to Miss Susan A. Gooch, daughter of Alexander and Nancy Gooch, natives of the state of Kentucky. She was born October 2, 1852. Mr. and Mrs. Kirkham are the parents of three children living, and two dead. Their names and dates of birth are as follows: Emma, born January 5, 1875; Archie, born January 18, 1877; Maggie, born January 9, 1879; Charles A., born December 29, 1870, died March 31, 1872, and one other, an infant, died in 1873. After his marriage, Mr. Kirkham resided, for a time, on a farm north of the town of Albany, then removed to one in section 31, township 28, range 51, and in the year 1880, came to his present location, section 36, township 51, range 29. Here he owns 150 acres of very rich and productive land, well improved and cultivated, with a neat, comfortable residence and good orchard. Mr. Kirkham is a thrifty, industrious and successful farmer and stock raiser, and a vaiuable adjunct to the community in which he resides.

Stephen H. DegrafTenreid was born in Jasper county, Missouri, April 8, 1848. He is the son of Vincent and Lucretia DegrafTenreid, natives of Pennsylvania. His parents died when he was but three years old, and he was reared by his grandmother. At the age of nineteen years he left home, and began battling alone for a livelihood. He worked at various occupations until the commencement of the civil war, and then enlisted, September, 1863, in company C, 2d Ohio cavalry, and was assigned to the department of the west. He participated in the battle at Sugar Creek, and a great number of skirmishes besides. He was discharged in October, 1865, at Leavenworth, Kansas, and went, for a short time to the territory of New Mexico. From there he went to Colorado, and to Kansas, returning thence to Ray county, Missouri, where he has since resided. Mr. DegrafTenreid was married on the 17th day of March, 1878, to Mrs. Angeline Tucker, daughter of Thomas and Margaret

McMullen, natives of Virginia, now deceased. He owns ninety-six acres of choice bottom land in an excellent state of cultivation, well improved, with neat, comfortable, and convenient buildings, good fences, orchard, etc. Mr. Degraffenreid is a member of Ada lodge, No. 444, at Albany. He is a successful farmer and a good citizen.

Anderson D. Loyd

Anderson D. Loyd is a native of Ray county, Missouri. He was born March 22, 1851. His parents were Henry and Nancy Loyd, natives of Tennessee. Our subject received the advantages of a common school education, and spent the time until he was grown, on the farm of his father. Mr. Loyd was married August 24, 1871, to Miss Milly Conyers, daughter of D. and Louisa Conyers. She was born December 15, 1849, in Ray county, Missouri. Her father was a native of Kentucky, and her mother of Virginia. Mr. and Mrs. Loyd have four children: Buford A., born February 3, 1^73; Bertie, born March 21, 1874; Richard, born February 8, 1876; Emma J., born January 19, 1878. Mr. Loyd owns and occupies the old homestead that was settled by his father. The place comprises one hundred and fifty-five acres of land, which, for fertility and productiveness, is unexcelled, perhaps, by any in the county. Mr. Loyd is a prosperous and successful farmer, and a well respected and esteemed member of the community.

Abraham Allen.'

Abraham Allen was born in Ray county, Missouri, September 4, 1827. He is the son of Reuben and Rhoda Allen, natives of the state of Tennessee. Our subject attended the subscription schools of his father's neighborhood, in the winter, and in the summer worked on the farm. In this wav he was enabled to obtain a fair common school education. In the year 1849, he left his father's farm and went as a teamster in a government wagon train, to New Mexico, spending about ninety days on the route to Santa Fe. After spending more than two years in the employ of the government, he was discharged from the wagon train, and was soon after employed by Quartermaster Reynolds, for some months, at Santa Fe. He was, subsequently, in the employ of Quartermaster Sibley, at Fort Union. Again an order was issued to discharge all citizen teamsters, and Mr. Allen went, for a short time, to the placer gold-diggings. Soon after, he enlisted in companv H, 2d U. S. dragoons, commanded by Lieutenant Johnson, and was assigned to the ninth department of New Mexico, where he was frequently engaged in skirmishes with the Indians, and was several times slightly wounded. At the battle of the mines on Gila river, he received a shot through the chin and mouth, which carried away a part of his tongue, and passed out at the base of the ear. This wound disabled Mr. Allen, and he was kept under medical treatment until July, 1856, and then came home, after an absence of seven years. Mr. Allen was married, September 4, 1859, to Miss Martha Tucker, daughter of John W. and Nancy Tucker, natives of Virginia. She was born March 17, 1837, in Benton county, Missouri. The issue of this union has been four children, living: Elizabeth J., born December 13, 1864; Jessie T., born August 27, 1867; John W., born June 29, 1870; Katie S., born November 9, 1872. Mr. Allen was elected to the office of township constable, in 1860, and very efficiently discharged the duties of that position. At the commencement of the war of the rebellion, Mr. Allen raised a company of men, and served in the home guard from October 1, till Christmas, 1861. In February, 1862, he and his company were mustered into the Missouri state militia service, with headquarters at Richmond, Missouri. He participated in the battle of Springfield, Missouri, and commanded two companies there. After the war, Mr. Allen went to Texas, and lived there for two years, returning to Ray county, Missouri, in the month of August, 1868. In January he was appointed by the county court, to fill the unexpired term of Constable Burnett (who was accidentally killed, and has since been deputy constable under James Ralph. Mr. Allen has had a varied experience in life, and has always been an active, energetic man.

John H. Frazer

John H. Frazer was born in Forsythe county, North Carolina, October 20, 1827. His parents were Jacob and Elizabeth Frazer, natives of Forsythe county, North Carolina. Our subject remained at home occupied with duties on his father's farm until his marriage. He was married, July 26, 1847, to Miss Jelina Studdard, daughter of James W. and Nancy Studdard, also natives of Forsythe county, North Carolina. Mrs. Frazer was born, July 27, 1831. Mr. Frazer and wife have ten living children; their names, with dates of birth, ace as follows: Romulus G., born in North Carolina, June 2, 1848, now married and living in Ray county; Eliza A. C, born September 24, 1850, married to J. C. Ross and living at Orrick, in this county; Fatha M., born 'April 26, 1852, married to David Messenger, and living in Louisville, Kentucky; Maria JL., born September 12, 1859, (married Thomas Brown, who died in 1880), now living in widowhood, at Orrick; Martin L., born January 19, 1856, married and living near his father's place; Joel B., born December 2, 1858, married and living near his father; John P., born March 6, 1862, living in the southern part of Missouri; Francis B., born May 9, 1864, died August 16, 1865; Hiram W., born July 30, 1866, died August 4, 1867; Stonewall, born June 12, 1868; Jelina E., born March 7, 1872; Jacob S., born March

7, 1877. Mr. Frazer came to Ray county, Missouri, in the year 1849, and settled upon a farm in township 51, range 29. He lived here and continued the business of farming, (except during the war) until 1873, when he removed to the town of Albany and engaged in gardening for market. At the beginning of the civil war, he enlisted in the Confederate army, company B., under Captain Parker, and participated in the battles of Sugar Creek, Pea Ridge, Iuka, Corinth, Grand Gulf and Farmington. He was discharged at Laurel Dale Springs, June 12, 1863, and reached home on the 19th of July following.

William R. Blythe was born on the 18th day of January, 1803. At the age of twenty years he came to Ray county, Missouri, and after staying here for a time, went back to Tennessee, where he had been reared. In the year 1826 he came again to Ray county, and entering a part of the homestead upon which he now resides, settled here permanently. He has since entered and bought other lands, and now possesses in all, about thirteen hundred acres of excellent land. His homestead is well improved with a handsome and convenient residence, good substantial barns, sheds and other buildings, well watered and enclosed by good fences and stocked with fine breeds of horses, cattle, hogs and sheep. Mr. Blythe was first married in 1830, to Miss Didama Fletcher, daughter of David and Rebecca Fletcher, of Indiana. She was born June 9, 1811. They became the parents of five children, only two of whom are now living: Thomas, born November 30,* 1836; married and living upon the farm his father first entered; Rebecca J., born in March, 1832, married C. W. Stokes, and is living near her father. Mrs. Blythe died November 3, 1845, and January 5, 1848, Mr. Blythe was married to Miss Leanah Rifle, daughter of John and Polly A. Rifle, natives of the state of Kentucky. Mrs. Blythe was born in Casey county, Kentucky, in February, 1823. The issue of this marriage was nine children : John L., born July 29, 1849; married and living on a farm, section fifteen, township fifty-one, range twenty-nine; James W., born September 1, 1850; killed by a runaway team, April 14, 1880; infant, born in September and died in October, 1853; Elizabeth A., born October 10, 1854; married G. R. Kirkham, and is living on a farm, section fourteen, township fifty-one, range twenty-nine; Robert D., born June 2, 1857; Franklin R., born September 1, 1859, and died August 8, 1860; Sarah E., born May 16, 1863; Martha H., born December 8, 1865; Laura, born April 25, 1869. Our subject was first lieutenant of Captain Clark's company in the Black Hawk war. Mr. Blythe represented Ray county in the general assembly from 1840 to 1842, and was state senator from 1842 to 1846. He discharged the duties of these high offices with credit and honor to himself, and to the full and entire satisfaction of his constituency. Mr. Blythe is a leading, very prosperous and highly respected farmer. He has worked himself up by his own efforts, from a poor, friendless boy, to a position of distinction among his fellowmen, and acquired sufficient wealth to end his days in comfort and ease, and to leave a handsome patrimony to his children.

John Mason

The subject of this sketch was born in Lincoln county, Kentucky, November 27, 1814. He received a classical education and remained in his native state attending to the management of his father's estate until the year 1836, when he immigrated to Missouri, where he engaged in business at various places successfully. First, at Middletown, Montgomery county, then at Louisville, Lincoln county. From Louisville he went to Clarksville, Pike county, and from there came to Ray county, where he only stopped a short time, and then returned to Kentucky, and remained there one year longer. He then returned to Ray county, and setting at the town of Albany, engaged extensively in merchandising, and also dealing in live stock. He was appointed notary public March 20, 1873, and has ever since held that office. Mr. Mason was admitted to the bar as an attorney at law, August 26, 1865, and has been very successfully engaged in the practice of his profession in the courts of this and other counties, and also in the supreme court of the state. He was married July 24, 1845, to Miss Mary H. Davis, daughter of William D., and Mary A. Davis, natives of Mississippi. She was born May 1, 1828. Her mother was a cousin of Jefferson Davis, president of the Southern Confederacy. Mr. and Mrs. Mason became the parents of eight children, five of whom are now living: Laura, born December 5, 1846, was twice married, first to William Nelson, who was killed by the accidental discharge of a gun, in 1867; second, to Frank Rhodes, in 1870. She died in 1874. John W., born January 23, 1848; Thomas, born March 24,1850; Oscar, born October 13, 1852; George born May 16, 1855; died December 4, 1874; Belle, born February 4, 1858, died March 26, 1875; Mattie L., born October 15, 1864; Frank, born January 25, 1868. Mr. Mason was again married December 17, 1877, to Mrs. Letitia S. Williams, daughter of Doctor R., and Catharine Coffey, natives of Lincoln county, Kentucky. Mr. Mason is a member of the Masonic fraternity.

Isaac M. Riffe

Isaac M. Riffe is the son of Jacob and Rutha Riffe, natives of the state of Kentucky. He was born in Ray county, Missouri, May 23, 1823. Our subject was reared upon a farm, and he learned his trade, carpentering in the winter season, and worked on the farm during summer. Mr.

Riffe was married to Miss Martha Good, March 11, 1865, by Rev. Thomas Brown, of the Baptist Church. The issue of this union was five children, now living: Lulu, born March 5, 186S; Katie R., born January 6, 1870; William W., born December 30, 1871; Elizabeth, born May 20, 1875; Susie, born April 5, 1878. Mrs. Riffe died October 6, 1880, greatly lamented by her numerous friends. At the commencement of the civil war, Mr. Riffe enlisted in company A, 4th Missouri volunteer infantry, Confederate army, and was engaged in the battles of Carthage, Dry Wood, Wilson's Creek, Lexington, Pea Ridge, first and second Corinth, and numerous skirmishes. He was discharged in the month of April, 1864, and returned home to Albany, Ray county, Missouri, where he has ever since resided. Mr. Riffe is an excellent carpenter, ,and has a wide patronage.

Jo&eph J. Hannah was born in Clarke county, Ohio, August 11, 1826. He is the son of David and Jane Hannah. His father was a native of Virginia, and his mother of the state of Ohio. He received a common school education, and at the age of twenty-one years, left home and went to Illinois, where he remained for three years, engaged in farming. He then returned to Ohio. Mr. Hannah was married August 22, 1850, to Miss Mar)'- Calley, daughter of Nicholas and Nancy Calley. She was born February 24, 1832. Soon after his marriage, Mr. Hannah moved to Champaign county, Illinois, and purchasing a farm, resided there for about fifteen years. Then in the year 1865, he emigrated to Ray county, Missouri, and settled upon the beautiful place he now owns, overlooking the Missouri river, (section thirteen, township fifty-one, range twenty-nine.) This farm contains three hundred and thirty acres of very rich and productive land, well fenced and improved, and stocked with the best varieties of horses, cattle, hogs and sheep. Mr. and Mrs. Hannah became the parents of ten children, all but two of whom are now living: James S., born August 9, 1851, died August 26, 1851; Nancy J., born July 12, 1853, married J. T. Conyers, and is now living in this county; Sarah M., born May 27,1856; Charlotte, born May 12,1858, married J. W. Rector, and lives in Caldwell county, Missouri ; William A., born April 11, 1860, now in Colorado; John W., born February 10, 1862, died November 1, 1862; Livona Isabella, born April 5, 1863, married Charles McGaugh, now living in this county: Joseph C, born May 19, 1867; Lily, born October 18, 1869; Riley N., born June 18, 1870. Mr. Hannah is a prosperous, well to do farmer, and a valuable citizen of the county.

Thornton Anderson

Thornton Anderson was born in the city of Louisville in the state of Kentucky, March 10, 1851. He is the son of William and Amanda Anderson, natives of Vicksville, Virginia. The family emigrated to Missouri when our subject was nine years of age, and located first in Callaway county, where they lived four years, then went to Jackson county, and from there to Lafayette county, Missouri, whence they came, in the year 1874, to Ray county, and located upon the farm (section eighteen, township fifty-one, range twenty-eight,) where our subject now resides. Mr. Anderson was married April 7, 1878, to Miss Belle Craig, by the Rev. William Leake, of the Baptist Church. Mrs. Anderson was born April 8, 1850, in Danville, Kentucky. She is the daughter of William and Sarah Craig, natives, also, of the state of Kentucky. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson have two children: William H., born April 16, 1879, and Nellie Gertrude, born February 24, 1881. Mr. Anderson is a well to do farmer and a good citizen.

William R1Mmer

William Rimmer was born in East Tennessee, March 17, 1848. He is the son of Jesse and Winnie Rimmer, also natives of East Tennessee. The family emigrated to Missouri when William was but three years old, and after stopping for one year in Warren county, came to Ray county and settled here permanently. Our subject received a common schoo education, and worked at home on the farm until his marriage. He was married December 30, 1868, to Miss Martha E. White, daughter of William and Eliza White. Her father was a native of Virginia, and her mother, of Clay county, Missouri. She was born June 13, 1853, in this county. Mr. and Mrs. Rimmer became the parents of six children: George A., born October 18, 1871 ; Franklin L., born May 1, 1875; Dallas, born July 21, 1877; Ira N., born September 1, 1879; Harvey, born October 28, 1869, died November 18, 1869; Julian, born December 6, 1872, died February 21, 1876. Mr. Rimmer is a member of the Farmers' Club, and has a neat, well improved and well cultivated farm of eighty acres of rich land. He is a good citizen.

S. W. Collier

S. W. Collier was born in Oswego county, New York, on the 18th day of July, 1827. His parents were Stephen and Hannah Collier, natives of New York. Our subject received only limited educational advantages, and at the age of eighteen years began working on his own account. He engaged upon railroads and other public works in various states, and also in Canada. Mr. Collier was married in the year 1845, to Miss Ellen Patton, in Canada. The next year afterwards he returned to the state of New York, and after remaining there for about five years, he went to Pennsylvania and resided there until 1856. From Pennsylvania, Mr. Collier emigrated to St. Louis, Missouri, and after living there until the autumn of 1863, removed with his family to Knox county, Illinois. He enlisted in the Union army and was chief of transportation in a quartermaster's department with the commission of captain. He served in this position during four years. At the close of the war he returned to his home, and soon after, having been employed on a railroad in Iowa, went thither with his family. He has ever since been engaged in railroad business either in Iowa or Missouri. He is now engaged superintending a party of men who are making railroad ties. He is located at Vibbard. Mr. and Mrs. Collier have one daughter, Helen M., born November 19, 1848. She is a school teacher.