Atchison Township

R. G. Anderson

farmer and stock raiser, section 30, post office Plattsburg, is a native of Kentucky, having been born in Monroe County, August 31, 182 1. When quite young, his parents removed to Tennessee, where he was raised to manhood and educated, his early life being spent in tilling the soil. In 1S51, or 1S52, he came to Clinton County. Missouri, locating in Platte Township, where he was identified with its progressive farmers until 1877. when he removed to his present location. His estate consists of eighty acres of land, well cultivated. Mr. A. possesses those traits peculiar to a Kentucky gentleman, and is popular with all who may form his acquaintance. He has been three times married. First, to Miss Angelina McCrowder, who died, leaving three children, two of whom are living, Sallie and Jane ; John, deceased. His second wife was Miss Julia Pioyd (now deceased). By this union there were five children, four of whom are living : Julia. Mary, William and James ; lost one, Susan D. His present wife was Miss Sarah Randolph. They have had five children, four of whom survive : Maggie, Franklin, Robert and George ; Ir.st one. Maggie. Himself and family are closely connected with the Christian Church.

Genkral David R. Atciiisox

Ex-Senator David R. Atchison, of Missouri, was born at Frogtown. in Fayette County. Kentucky, AuLTust 11,1807. Hein^^ the son of a wealthy farmer of that county, he received all the advanta^a-s of a liberal education, v.-hich developed those jjoweiful intellectual faculties that rendered his name, in after life, conspicuous in the history of the country. His father was William Atchison, the son of a farmer of Lancaster Count)-. Pennsylvania, and who moved, with his parents, when six >-ears old. to that L,^arden spot of the west, which now constitutes the rich and majTnificently improved County of Fayette, in the State of Kentucky. His mother's maiden name was Catherine Allen. She was a native of the State of Georgia, and a lady of rare natural and acquired endowments. General Atchison was the eldest of six children, four sons and two daughters. His brothers were, B. A. Atchison, generally known as Allen Atchison, who died in 1857, leaving one child, John C, who, with Marv. a daughter of William Atchison, resides with the General ; Alexander Atchison, who died insane, since the war ; and William Atchis(jn, tVio f-fi^^r- r.f T^^ T p Atc^^i-ori, at one time a well known ph>-sician of St. Joseph. One sister, Mary, was married to Madison Allen, a farmer of Buchanan County. Miss Rebecca Atchison, another sister of the General, died at her residence in Clinton County, in August, 1874. The brothers were all large farmers, and recognized as men of more than ordinary natural and acquired endowments of mind. Largely blessed with the gift? of fortune, intellectual worth seems to have been no less the heritage of this distinguished family. Blessed with ample means and a proper appreciation of the advantages of mental culture, the parents of the subject of this sketch spared no efforts in developing those dawning powers of mind which were, in after life, to render his name prominent in the history of the government. In 1825. he was graduated, with high honor, in Transylvania University, then the leading institution of learning in the state, and since incorporated in the new University of Kentucky. Upon receiving his degree in the arts, Mr. Atchison, with characteristic energy immediately applied himself to the study of law. Among his preceptors in this faculty were the eminent Judge Bledsoe, Charles Humphrey and William T. Barry, afterward Postmaster General of the United States, during the administration of Van Buren. In 1829 Mr. Atchison was admitted to the practice of law in his native state. Notwithstanding the most flattering encouragement and persuasion to remain from those who knew and appreciated his talents, he determined to try his fortune in the West, and a few months after, in 1S30, removed to the comparativelv wild district of Clay County, Missouri. In April of that year he received, in St. Louis, his license to practice in the Supreme Court of the state, and immediately settled in the village of Liberty.

now the iin[)ort:iiit scat of Cla>- Count)-. The 'only lawyer settled in that place at the tinn- of his arrival was Jud-e William T. Wood, now a resident of LcxinL^^ton. and a man hi;^hly respected for his personal and professional worth. About this period Mr. Atchison was appointed Major Genera! of the Northern Di\-ision of Missouri State Militia. General AtchisL)n soon commanded a lucrative practice in his new home, where he continued to reside, in the discharge of the duties of his pro- . fession, until Februar)-, 1S41, when his superior legal attainments, which were known and reci>;::;^nized throughout the state, won for him the apjiointment by Go\-ernor Thomas l\e\-nolds of Jud^^e of the Circuit Court of riatte County on its ori^anization in February of that \'ear. when he moved his residence to Platte Cit\-. It api)ears that in that day judci^es were appointed to this position by the Governor, with the adx'ice and consent of the senate. The office was not made elective till several years after. General Atchison, though endowed with an inflexible will and luu-ielding firmness of character, was ever a man of unassuming bearing, large bene\'olence and convivial and social habits. These, together with his recognized professional ability, rend.:^! i-'-i-;!'- t-,o^m1t«- ^vlth. all clashes among the earl\- settiers of that region, and in August, 1834, as again in 1838, he was elected to the state legislature from Clay County. Upon the death of Dr. Linn, United States Senator, in the autumn of that year. Judge Atchison was appointed by Governor Reynolds to the vacanc}- thus occasioned in the Senate. It was by many considered that this appointment was merited, and had been recommended b\' Colonel Benton, and other authorities of the Democratic party ; by others, it was said, that the Governor, himself, was ambitious of the senatorship. and had selected Judge Atchison as a person who could be easily beaten at the next election. The death of Governor Reynolds, however, occurred before the meeting of the next Legislature, and Judge Atchison was elected with but slight opposition. He was re-elected for two full terms, in succession, the last of which expired March 4, 1855, during the administration of Franklin Pierce. Two )-ears after this he moved his residence from Platte to his present home in Clinton County. He was elected President of the Senate, to succeed Judge Mangum, a Whig Senator from North Carolina, who is mentioned bv Judge Atchison as a man of considerable ability and uncompromising integrity. Two or three years after. Judge Atchison was again elected to that distinguished position, which he continued to hold for some time, till he v.-as relieved, during a temporary absence on priv'ate business, by Jesse D. Bright, wdiose election to fill the \-acancy was the result of a suggestion to that efiect from his distinguished predecess»)r. The fourth of March, 1849, occurring on Sunda\-, General Z. Taylor was not inaugurated till the following Monda\-, Judge .\tchison thus, as presiding officer of the Senate, became virtually ricsidciit of the rniicci States duriii;^^ thi: term o( twenty-four hcturs. In referrinj^f to this accidental (li;_Miit\', on bein^' intcrro^^ated a.s to how he enjo)Cil his exalted position, the \ rnerable senator f^ood-humorcdly replied that he cotdtl tell but little about it, as o\erconie with fatiL;ue, consequent on se\(.ral consecuti\'e days and ni^ht-v of official labor, lie slcjjt through nearly his whole term of service. To g^o back, however, in our history: When Da\id R. Atcliison entered the senate, he acted cordially with Colonel Benton, and, as late as 1848, claimed that he was the first to frame- an act or^yani/int; the Territorx' of Orei;on, with a clause prohibiting; sla\'ery The next \'ear he attached himself to the party of Mr. Calhoun, ami, elected president />ro tciii of the senate, was received into fa\or and roused into prominence by his new party, and became the antagonist of Colonel ]3enton in his own state. The union of a few Democrats, under the lead of Mr. Atchison, with the Whigs, defeated Colonel Benton, in 1850. The former became especially pri:)minent in the legislation for the organization of the territories of Kansas and Nebraska. The first bill, which was introduced into congress, to this eiid, was in the winter of 185 1-2, and had no reference to the subject of slavery. This bill Mr. Atchison advocated by a speech in the senate, but, subsequently, on his return to Missouri, he became an opponent of the bill, and declared, in a public speech, that he would never vote for the measure unless the Missouri Compromise was repealed. The public sentiment at that time was such that his declaration was dienounced b\- the papers of his own party ; but, withi'i a month from the opening of the next congress, Mr. Douglas, from the Committee on Territories, reported a bill to organize these territories, containing a clause which, by strong implication, repealed the Missouri Compromi>e. although the report accompan\-ing the bill expressly deprecated ain' such intent. This clause was assailed by Messrs. Chase and Sumner, and by others, in a printed circular, which led to vehement and pergonal debate. There was finally substituted another clause, drawn up by .\rchibald Dixon, senator trom Kentuck)-. which repealed the Missouri Compromise, outright, and, in this shape, the bill passed. Gen. Atchison subsequently affirmed, in a speech made in the Territory of Kansas, that the clause repealing the Missouri Compromise originated with him, and that he had proposed it to Mr. Douglas, who, at first, declined to insert it in his bill, but, after a period of hesitation, consented to do so. This account tallies with public facts, and though it was published in the newspapers, was not denied by Mr. Douglas. On his retirement from the Senate, of which he was an honored member for the space of over twelve years, during the greater portion of which time he was its presiding officer, he continued to take a lively interest in the politics of the country, and was regarded as a leader and cliief adviser .)t the pro-slaver\- part>- in Kansas, during the troubles which preceded the adniis-ion of that state. In 1.S36, we find him in command of 1,150 men, at a point called Santa I-'e. On the 29th of August, of the same xxar, a detachment from General Atchison's army attackeil Osawatomic, which was defended by about 50 men, who made a vigorous resistance, hut weie defeated with the loss of fi\e wounded and seven prisoner?. l'i\e of the .issailants were killed, and thirty buildings were burned. The next day, a body of h'ree State men marched from Lawrence to attack Atchison's arm\'. On their approach the latter retired, and withdrew his forces into Missouri. The admission of Kansas as a free state, soon after, put an ciul to this much x'exed que->ti<jii. and restored tranquility to the country. General Atchison then lived in retirement, (")n his magjnificent estate, in C'linton Count}-, till the breaking out of the civil war, when he left for the South, and was jjresent at the battle of I^exington. Goxernor Jackson sent him a commission as brigadier general at the commencement of the war. I'his General Atchison declined accepting, as his residence was in Clinton County, outside of the limits of the division. He, however, remained with the arm}-, and assisted at its organization. Rejoined temporaril}-. for the pur- of rmi.-i'nrr , , t-v fht- r r^n1 p^ p }'. Fpli. Kclle\-"s artillcr}' Command, from St. Joseph, and remained with the arm}- till after the battle of Elkhorn. At the close of the war General Atchison returned to his home in Clinton Count}-, where he has since continued to reside in almost unbroken retirement. He was never married. His residence, a loft}- and spacious brick mansion in the midst of a magnificent farm of i.ooo acres, about seven miles west of Plattsburg and about a mile and a half from Gowcr, was accidentally destro}-ed b}- fire on the 2d of Februar}-, 1870. Th.e onh' persons in the house at the time were the general, a sister-inlaw, and a little girl, a niece, who were resident with him, and a negro servant. The farm hands were all' at work at some distance from the house. The neighbors attracted by the flames soon assembled in considerable number, but without the means of reaching the loft}- roof, and too late to render an}- effecti\-e assistance. The entire building was consumed, with most of the contents. The general, in speaking of the loss, seemed less to regret the destruction of the spacious and elegant mansion than the burning of his extensive library and valuable records of his opinions and obser\-ations during the long period of his service in the Senate of the United States, in which he predicted -the civil war, etc. The interest which a work of that character emanating from the pen of such a man would have been read by people of all parties, can readih- be imagined. General Atchison, since the fire in which his mansion was destro}-ed. erected on its site an elegaiit frame cottage, but of much smaller area than the old building, shattered columns and other stone debris of which still appear on the ground to speak of the loft}- edifice of which the}- once formed part. Since ihe chjse of tiie civil war General Athison lias lived a life of secluson on liis farm, from which he has ne\'er suffered himself to be drawn but once, and that on the memorable occasicm -of the Old Settlers' meeting; at the St. Joseph Exposition in Sejjtember, 1874. Mere at lea^t one hundred of the old ^aay 'haired sires and mothers who were amoni; the earl}- settlers of the Platte Purchase and nei^^hborinc^ country were t;athered in front of the yrand stand. .At half past twelve o'clock, the meetin^^f- was called to order by James N. Hurnes, who spoke as follows: "Ladies and c^entlemen : Vou will not exi)ect of me an extended speech. I am too full to express what I feel. Vou will allow me to nominate for chairman of this meeting, Hon. David R. Atchison. His name is the balance of my speech." General Atchison then, took the floor, and thanked the audience for the honor conferred upon him. He had once presided o\er the United States Senate, but this was a prouder position than he ever before occupied. He referred in feeling terms to the early settlers of the Platte Purchase, their trials and hardships, and their courage and endurance under difficulties. On this occasion, General A. W. Doniphan spoke. Senator Bogy, of St. Louis, Judge Vories, and Judge Birch, of Clinton County, made eloquent -and comparatively long speeches, which were listened to with marked attention; but none were more affecting than the brief and pointed remarks of the venerable of the United States Senate. As a private citizen, no man was ever more highly esteemed, by all who knew him, than David R. Atchison. The deserving in misfortune was never known to go unrelieved by his generous hand, and the princely hospitality, with which he entertained those who were honored by his friendship, will long be remembered by his cotemporaries and associates of other da)-s, b\- whom he was ever recognized as one who reflected credited on the exalted positions which he occupied in the service of his country, (positions, it must be observed, which were unsolicited and unexpectedly thrust upon him;, a true type of that nobility of nature, which no heraldic blazonry can enhance, and which no hereditary rank or possessions can purchase.

^tate senator, is a native of Nelson County,- KentuC!ky, and was born August 10. 1 8 19. Piis father, James Bland, was an agriculturist. His mother's maden name was Mar\- W'yatt. of Crab Orchard, Kentuck>-. In 1825, the father of the subject of this narrati\e. with his family, removed to Missouri, locating in Warren Count}-, on a farm. Here W. W . spent his early da\-s, and received his education. After becoming ot a suitable age, he commenced the study of medicine, under the tutorship of

Dr. ICIijah McClain, a |)r<^niinent physician of nekton, Warren County. appl)-inj; himself tliliL^entl)- to its consideration two years, after which he continued his studies at the Medical University Tknown as tlie McDowell Collecxej in St. Loin's. FVom this institution he was graduated. In later \ears. he attendev-i medical lectures in St. Louis. After his L^raduatioii. he commenced to practice his profession in Warren County, Missouri, continuing one year, when in 1S46, he moved to ]\Laryville, Xoda-vay County, remaining three years. Physicians at that day were few in number in Northwestern Missouri, and Dr. Bland's practice was large, but his patients were scattered. His usual mode of traveling was on horse back, and his rides extended to the Iowa line, and an equal distance either way from Maryville. In the spring of 1850, California attracted his attention, and, for three \-ears, he was engaged in merchandising and mining in that country. After returning, he located temporarily for a time in Clay County, and subsequently came to Clinton, ]>urchasing the farm where he now resides, which is located on section 13. He was one of the first physicians in this part of the county, and his practice has been an extended and successful one. Although continuously prosecuting his profession, while at home, he has found ample time to devote a great amount of exertion to the cultivation of his farm, which embraces 600 acres. In stock raising, which he makes a specialty, he has in his herds graded cattle that will compare with any in the county. As a citizen, Dr. Bland is quiet and unostentatious, cordially indorsing and supporting an\- measure of real public benefit. Although past the meridian of life, he is a well preserved man. His career has been an active and successful one. He is a great reader, a brilliant conversationalist, and in the domestic circle, and public walks of life, is one of the most companionable of men. In the autumn of 18S0, Dr. Bland was the candidate for state senator, from the district embracing the counties of Clay, Platte and Clinton, and received the unanimous support of the people. He was married in 1854, to Miss Annie E. Payne, of Clinton County. Their family consists of seven children : Mary B., Serena E. (wife of J. C. Atchison), James A., Henry F., Luella, Annie Lee and Louis L.

James L. Bradshaw

farmer and stock raiser, section 34, post office Gower. A well known, as^ well as an early settler of Northwestern Missouri, was Mr. Charles- Bradshaw, who was a native of Virginia, and came to Platte Count\\ locating near Weston, in 1839. He was a millwright by trade, but followed farming, principally, and eventually became a resident of Andrew County, where his death occurred, in 1S47. His son. James L. Bradshaw^ was born in Mercer Count)-, Kentucky, October i, 1837, and came to Missouri with his father, residing in Platte and Andrew Counties for some time. After the death of the fatlier, the mother of the subject of this sketch located in St. Joseph, and there J. L. learnetl the bhicksmitli trade, and was conductini,^ a shop on Messanie street, when the war broke out. He was arnonL; the first to espouse the Union cause, and enHsted, as a private, in tlie TweiitN'-fifth Missouri, under Colonel Peabody. Later, the Twent\--fifth was attached to Co-lonel Fladd's engineer corps, and was under tlie command of General John A. Logan. Mr. B, was soon piomoted to sergeant, and then to lieutenant. He participated at the engagements of Corinth, Shiloh, Raleigh, Chattanooga, and other notable battle-^^, being honorably discharged July 25, 1S65. at Louisville. Kentuck)-. Returning to St. Joseph, he soon after opened a blacksmith shop at Matney's Miils, in Buchanan Count}', which he conducted for several years, and, subsequently, engaged in blacksmithing at Plattsburg. He has attained a wide and well merited reputation as a horse skoer, and has few equals in this important branch. In 1S7G, he commenced farming where he now resides, and is the owner of eighty acresof fine land. Mr. B. is a gentleman well posted on tne topics of the day, and, in a large degree, commands the respect of his fellow citizens. He has been twice married. First, in 1858, to Miss Mary Bradshaw. Her death occurred eighfor nine months later. In i867,!Miss ?vlar}- Jordan became his wife. They have had five children, of whom, Jennie, Maud and Ralph are living, and two are deceased. Amy and Ida. Mr. B. is a member of the Protective Association- section }}, post ot^ce Plattsburg. Prominent among the old settlers i> numbered the subject of this sketch, who, by faithful attention to his calling and strict principles of honest)", has, step by step, worked his way to the elevated position he now occupies. He is a native of Virginia and was born January 29, 1S29. He was there raised in the occupation he now follow-^, and is the present owner of 426 acres of good average land, a large portion of which is under cultix'ation. He has a nice residence on his farm, and his improvements are of the first order'. Mr. C. was married, in iS5i,to Martha J. Morgan. They have, from this union, four children : John \V., Frank, Mary E., and Samuel L. Mr. and Mrs. C. are members of the Baptist Church, and contribute largely toward its support.

Samuel Cox

was born in Knox County, Kentuck}-, March 3, 1S09. His father, Frederick, was a Virginian, and one of the first settlers in Southern Kentucky. The subject of this sketch was reared to manhood and educated in his native state, his early days being spent in farming. In 1S30. he removed to Indiana, and located in l*arke County, where he was encjac;cd in farniin<j[, until i860, when he mo\'ed to Iowa, locating in Ilarri.^on County. There he continued farming until 1873. at which time he became a resident of Ikichanan County, Missouri, taking up his abode in Tremont Township. In 1879. he purchased a pleasant home in Gower, and retired from tjie active field of lcd>or. Mr. Co.v is past the meridian of life, but has been, and is still, an industrious, frugal, and public spirited citizen, alwa)'s found on the side which tends to the adx'ancement of the religious and moral sentiment. He has been twice married. First, in [851, to Miss Sally T'ruitt. The>- had ten children, five of whom are living : William. Louisiana, Elizabeth, Jane and James C; lost five: John. Samuel, ^Martha, }>la.ry M., and one died in infancy. Mrs. Cox departed this life in 1S70. For his second wife, Mr. C. married oMrs. Charit\- Wright. Her maiden name was Stalker. Slie was born in Indiana, and is the daughter of George Stalker, a native of North Carolina. She had been twice married : first, to John B. Van- Clea\'e, who died in 1852, leaving two children, Mary Elizabeth and John B. In 1S57, James Wright became her husband. He died in 1869. Mr. and Mrs. Cox are diligent and prominent workers in the Baptist Church.

Romulus E. Culver

now deceased, was early identified with the public interests of Northwest Missouri, and was a man whose name was a household word in the pioneer days of Clinton County. He was a native of Maryland, and was born in [Montgomery Count}-, in 18 10. He afterwards moved to Kentucky, where he was married to Mary A. Lawson, a nati\e of \'irginia, born in 1S12. In the autumn of 1840, Mr. C. came to Clinton Count}" and bought 300 acres of land. The following spring, he took up his abcvde in this count}-, having built a log cabin, and commenced the arduous task of opening a farm. His industry was rewarded, and in a few years he w-as regarded as one of the leading farmers in the county. In 1845, he was elected county judge, and, in the spring of 1846. he tendered his ser\ices to suppress the Mexican War, and, in the capacity of assistant quartermaster, served until the spring of 1847. w^hen, with six others, he started for home. The}- stopped at a tow n called Moro, New Mexico, and, while at dinner, were captured, taken out and shot. The sympath}- manifested b}- the officers of his regiment, in their letter of condolence to Mrs. Culver, was evidence of his bravery as a soldier. The Clinton County Court passed suitable resolutions in memorial of their departed associate, which displa}-ed the fact, that, in his official capacity, he had been recognized as a substantial .advocate of justice, and a man of excellent judgment. Judge Culver, political!} . was a Henry Cla}- Whig. He was a Master Mason.

William L. Cuia'Lr

farmer anil stock raiser, section 27, post office Grax'scjn, is a son of Romulus K. Culver, and was born in Greenup Count)-, Keiituck}-, Xo\(.'mber 6,

1835. He came to Clinton Count}- with his parents when j'oung, and after his father's death, in 1S47, he returned to Kentucky, where he attended school for a time at Lexington ; also St. Joseph, Missouri. He has long been recognized as one of the leading stock raisers and feeders in Clinton Count}-, and his landed estate now consists of 1,229 acres, 749 of which comprise the honie farm. His residence is attractivel}- situated, and indicates comfort. ]Mr. Cul\-er is a gentleman of broad and liberal views, and is known as one who endorses ever}- enterprise for tlie advancement of the county and state. He was married in 1862, to ?^Iiss Virginia McMichael, daughter of the veteran citizen, Thomas McMichael. They have fi\e children : Romulus' E., Thomas McMichael, Charles Morgan. Paul Middleton and Josephine Augusta. Himself and family are members of the M. E. Church, South. I\Irs. ]\Iar}- A. Culver, mother of the subject of this sketch, an estimable lady, who;?e graces of mind and heart have endeared her to a large circle of acquaintances, li\-es with is one of the most sterling and live business men of Gower, and oiie who is widely know-n throughout the adjoining countr}-. He is a nati\-e of North Carolina, and was born in Guilford County, March 31, 1839. His father, John, was an agriculturist, and, in iS-^4, came to Missouri w-ith his family, locating in the southern part of Ra}- Count}-. N. G. eventually became a resident of Clay County, and for a time w-as engaged in merchandising at Clayville, and afterwards at Greenville, being closeh' identified with the prominent business men of that count}- for a number -of years. When Gower was founded he was among its first business men, engaging in mercantile pursuits ; afterwards he turned his attention to butchering and the stock trade, in connection with other lines. Li 1S69, he married Miss Amanda Williams, of Cla}- Count}-. The}- ha\-e a family of six children b}- this union: Albert C, Annie V., Claudie E., Charles E., Robert C. and an infant. He is a Master Mason and a charter member of Gow-er Lodge, No. 397.

M. V. Elliott

farmer and stock raiser, section 22. post office Gower. A prominent man among the earl}- settlers of Clinton and Ruchanan Counties w-as Mr. John Elliott. He was a native of Kentuck}-, and came to the Platte Purchase when it was first opened. He was recognized as a sterling, go-ahead citizen until tlic time of his demise, which occurred in I""ebruar\-, 184''), His son. M. \'. Elliott, was born in Clinton Coinit}-, Mi'^souri, Dccemhcr 7. 1S39. Here he has been raised and educated, since makinc,^ it his home, with the exception of several \-ears spent in the far northwest in the government cmplo\-. His estate consists of 160 acres of clioice land, >^eventy-four acres of which are in Atchison Township, Clinton Count)-, and eighty-six acres in Platte Township, Buchanan Coimty. His residence is one-half in Clinton and one-half in Buchanan. Mr. Iv is a thorough agriculturist, combining the practical with the theoretical, and is a gentleman of good con\-ersational powers. His mother, an estimable lady, and one of the pioneers of Clinton and Buchanan Counties, resides with him ; she has been three times married ; her husbands are all deceased; her first husband, Mr. B. Car\' ; the second John Elliott, whom she married, in 1832, and who died in 1846; her thini husband was James Feget, who died in 1879. The subject of this sketch was married, in 1856, to Miss Alice Knight, of Clay County, Missouri. The}- have had six children : Wallula, Bertie, Annie and Thersa, twins, and Pearl Irene ; lost one, Titus Pollen. Himself and fpiriilv are member'^ of the Cbri-^tian Church.

Rev. George W. Everett

is a native of Clinton County, and was born near Stewartsville, November 24, 1838. His father, Mathew, was a native of Virginia, and he became a resident of the Territory of Missouri in 1S18. Pie came to Clinton County in 183S, being among the pioneers, and was here identified with the development of the county, and its general progress for some years. George \V. was raised in Clinton County, following the pursuits of farming. His educational advantages were exceedingl)' limited, but by perseverance, improving all his leisure moments, and being an apt student, he secured a fair share of the world's knowledge. In later years he attended the Pleasant Ridge Seminary, in Platte County. At the breaking out of the war, Mr. Everett tendered his services to the Confederate cause, enlisting in Shelby's Brigade. On account of infirmity, he was unsuited for the infantry, was discharged, and re-enlisted in the cavalry, remaining until the close of the war. After this, he was one year in Te.xas, and then returned to Clinton Count}-, in 1866, engaging in agricultural pursuits. In 1S74, he was ordained minister. Mr. P^verett is well disciplined in expounding the scriptures, is an ardent worker, and a convincing speaker. He was married in 1S6S. to Miss Marietta Busey. By this union they have six children : Thomas, Maurie.. Clarence, Pllt«Mi. Jimmie Lyle and Mar}- Rebecca.

farmer and stocT-c raiser, section 22, post (office Gower. There are but few people in Clinton and adjoining counties who have not heard of Uncle Jimniie, as he is asually called, he, who, in the pioneer days of this country, felled the gjant oak and. assisted in erecting the frontier cabin, and in the bee hunt was found among the foremost, and by whose hand man}- an aijile buck has been slain. Now well advanced in }-ears and past the meridian of life, he is still hale, and bids fair for years to come, to recount his numerous exploits of those halc\"on days. He was born in Kentuck}', September 3, 1810. His father, with his family, emigrated to Missouri at an early da\-, locating first in .^Montgomerj' County, and then in Cla}' County. William Groom, his brother, came to Clinton County in 1829, and the subject of this sketch accompanied him. and helped to erect his house, becoming a permanent resident in 1833. He took an active part as an early farm improver, and from that time to the present, has been one of Clinton County's most progressive citizens. He was at the first precinct election in 1S33, and helped to carry the polls to Liberty. He was married in 1S36. to Miss Rebecca Adams, i hey nave had seventeen children, fourteen of whom are now (188 1) living: Ann, Sarah, Archibald. Gabriel, Elizabeth, Larinda, Nancy, Catherine, Rebecca, Littleton. Elijah, Deborah, ]\Iary, Rhoda. Three are deceased : Jacob, James and an infant.

well known in Northwestern Missouri, is a native of Kentucky, and was born in Henry Count)-, December 20, 18 16. His father, John I. Hall. \\as a blacksmith, and Thomas adopted and learned that trade, when fifteen years of age. L'pon attaining his majority, he opened a shop at Pleasnreville, which he operated a number of \-ears. Li 1S59, ^'^^ came to -Missouri, locating in Tremont Township. Buchanan Count}-, where he engaged in farming, continuing until 1S74. when he removed to Gower, and opened a blacksmith shop. Not man}- men are more widely acquainted or more popularly known in the adjacent county than Mr. Hall. He was married, in 1838, to Miss Edna F. Fallis, of Kentuck}'. They have had seven children, four of whom are living : John W., David S., George T. and Erasmus C. ; lost three : William Henr}-, Josephene E. and Tillman.

John W. Hall

merchant. This v.-ell known and popular citizen is a native of Kentuck}-, and ^\-as born in Henr}- County, August 2, 1839. He came to Missouri -when seventeen \-ears of age, locating in Buchanan Count\- witli hi..s parents. When the rebellion broke out he entered the Confederate -service, and served six months under General Atchison, after which hr went to Montana, locatin^^ in Virc^inia City, where he resided several years. He was a policeman in that city for one year, and deputy marshal two years. In 1867, returning to Buchanan County, Missouri, he engaged in farming until i8;S, when he embarked in merchandising in Gower. Mr. II. is an outspoken, frank citi/.en, with liberal views, and as a business man stands among the foremost. In 1868, Miss Fdiza Weakley, of Clinton County, Missouri, became his v/ifc. Ry this union they have six children: Georgia l^elle, Elizabeth, Nellie, Lucy, Willard and Virgil. Lost one - Erasmus. Mr. Hall is a Master Mason and a member of Gower Lodge.

David S. Hall

dealer in hardware and agricultural implements, and insurance, land, claim and collecting agent, was born in Pleasureville, Kentucky, October 15, 1843, and came to Buchanan County. ^Missouri, with his parents in [857. He was there raised to manhood, receiving the benefits of a common school and a commercial education in St. Joseph. He commenced his mercantile career at Union Mills, Platte County, and afterwards engaged in trade in Plattsburg. where he continued four years; thence moved to Gower, and has since been one of the representative men of the town. For two years he was deputy sheriff of Clinton County, and filled the position faithfully. He was married in 1868 to Miss Emma L. Asbur}-. of Plattsburg. They have three children : Annie A., Birda and George R. A. Mr. Hall is a Master Mason and a member of Gower Lodge.

George T. Hall

merchant and postmaster, Gower, as a citizen and energetic business man, is known over a vast area of country. He is the son of Mr. Thomas Hall, the well known vulcan, and was born in Pleasureville, Kentucky, December 22, 1850. Moving to Missouri with his parents when young, he was principally raised in Buchanan County. In 1870 he embarked in merchandising, and has been postmaster since 1874. He was married in 18S1 to Miss Inez Shields, an estimable lady of Warrensburg, Johnson County, Missouri. Mr. Hall is a Master Mason.

William Hammett

druggist, stationer and assistant postmaster, Gower, is a native of Pennsylvania, and was born in Franklin County, April 4, 1843. His father, D. F. Hammett, was well known in the commercial circles of that country. and died when William was r^uite young. At an early age the latter migrated to Mar\-laiul. where he was raised and educated, enteriiiL: tlie naval academy, at Annapolis, as a cadet, in 1859 ; also, for a time, he was at Newport, the academy having been removed to that point. In 1863, he was called into active service, and, in the capacity of ensign, was in the Missis-^ippi Squadron until the close of the rebellion, when he was honorably discharged. In 18^)6, the west attracted his attention, and he came to :\Iissouri, locating in St. Joseph, where he entered the employ of Turner. Frazer & Co., and. for a time, was their representative on the road, being one of the first traveling salesmen out of St. Joseph. He continued in their employ for four >-ears, after which he embarked in merchandising at Frazer, Buchanan County, remaining three years. He next went to Texas, and lived temporarily in different parts, and, afterwards, for four years, was in the employ of C. D. Smith & Co., St. Joseph. In the autumn of iSSp. he established himself in trade in Gower. He has been assistant postmaster since that time. He is an efficient druggist, and has built up a trade that will compare favorably with any in the county. Socially, ^Ir. Hammett is one of the most genial and companionable of men. He is a Master :\Iason, and a member of Gower Lodf^e.

of the firm of Poe & Jamison, dealers in general merchandise, Gower. This popular young gentleman is a native ofBuchanan County, Missouri, and was born August 6, 1S53, his father, Allen, being one of the early settlers of the county. J. T. was raised on the farm, .receiving the bonefits of the common schools. After attaining his majority, for two years he was an attendant of the State Normal School at Kirksville. the latter portion of the time being employed as a teacher. For several years he pursued the vocation of teaching in Buchanan and Clinton Counties, and engaged in his present business in the spring of iSSi.

fiirmer and stock raiser, section 3[, post office Gower, is a native of Virginia, and was born in Fluvanna County, December 5, 1805. His father, William, was a farmer, and an old resident of that state. The subject of this sketch, when 26 years of age, migrated to Kentucky, where he resided until 1854, when he came to Platte County, Missouri, and after a residence there of eighteen months, came to Clinton County, locating where he now resides. He first bought 200 acres of land, and has been adding to it from time to time, until his present estate embraces 300 acres of choice land, on which is situated a comfortable residence. Mr. ]. has been a man of untiring industry, and few citizens ot Chnton County are more respected for sterling merit. He has been twice mar- ried ; first, in 1829. to Miss i\Iar\- L. Kent, of \'irL;inia. She died in Kentuckv, March ui. 1855. Miss ^Marj^aret W. Brunile)-, of Kentucky, afterwards became his wife. Mer father, Daniel, was a native of Virginia, and moNcd to Kentucky when sixteen \-ears of ag-e.

farmer and stock raiser, section 31, post office Gower, an enterprising young agriculturist, is a son of Mr. J. D. Johnson, and was born in 184S, in Shelby County, Kentucky, between Frankfort and Shelbyville. He came to I'latte Count}' with his father in 1S54, and to Clinton County in 1856, where he has been raised and educated, and where he has since resided, spending his boyhood days in tilling the soil of his county. Mr. J. in farmiiig and stock raising combines the real witli the theoretical. Being thoroughl)- schooled as an agriculturist, he promises in the near future to be numbered with the substantial farmers of the county. In 1877, Miss Mary Wright, an estimable j'oung lady, became his wife.

William Kirk

farmer and stock raiser, section 5. post office Plattsburg, is one of the largest real estate owil'ers in Northwestern Missouri, and is known as one of the substantial stock men of Clinton Count}*. His home farm embraces 963 acres, a sliort distance east of which are 200 acres, 50 acres of timber land and 135 acres in DeKalb Count}- - in all, 1.348 acres, which will average with any in Northwestern [Missouri. The greater portion of it is under a high state of cultivation. His residence, which is situated on a moderate!}' inclined elevation, is a fin.e looking one, and is one o( the most attractive and desirable homes in the state. A frame barn, which is visible for miles, is a two stor}- aiid basement structure, 42x60 feet, and well arranged for stock feeding. The ice house, wood house, carpenter shop and other buildings are well arranged, indicatin.g good judgment in their construction and the supervision of a skilled manager. Mr. Kirk is a native of Jefferson County, Ohio, and was born March 26, 1823. His father, John, was a native of Ireland, and came to America when a boy. settling in Penns}-lvania and eventualh" located in Ohio. He was a soldier in the war of 18 12. William was raised and educated in Jefferson Count}', his boyhood da}'s being spent in tilling the soil. After attaining his majorit}' he lived on a rented farm for fifteen years. In 1866 he came to Missouri, locating on his present farm, three-quarters of a mile from his present home site. In 1857 he commenced the building of his present residence. Mr. K. is the founder and builder of his own competenc}', which he has secured b}- untiring industry and husbanding his resources. In 1849 he ^^'^s married to Miss Eliza A. Tavlor, of Ohio, a lad\- whoie graces of mind and heart have endeared her io all. ]>y this union they have had five children, three of whom are li\'ing : Theophilus, William and Eva ; Sophia and Mary, deceased. Himself and family are members of the Methodist Church.

John Lewis

farmer and stock raiser, section 25, post office Plattsburg, stands prominent among our progressive and successful farmers. He is a native of Wales, and when seventeen }-ears of age he, with his father, emigrated lo America, settling in Ohio, where he remained six years. After this time he removed to AFissouri, and settled in this county, where he now resides. He has 390 acres of good lanci, most of which is under culti\ation, and upon it is one of the finest barns in the county, and a nice, comfortable residence. "His improvements general!}' denote him a representati\"e and successful farmer. He was married Februar)- 8, 1846, to Miss Mary A. Bumgarner. The\- have from this marriage twelve children: Sarah A., Mahala, William L., Benjamin F., Mary I., John M.. Maggie E., Esther, Rebecca E., Thomas A., Robert J. and Jacob B. ?"-'" i-npniKf-r< r,f the Baptist Church. Mr. T.. was justice of the peace for five years, and during that time faithfully discharged the duties of that office.

Lovd Leach

farmer and stock raiser, section 4, post office Plattsburg, is a native of Kentuck}-, ha\-ing been born in Scott County, January 30. 181S. His father. Burton Leach, was an old citizen of that state. Lo}-d was raised, educated and resided in Kentucky until 1S47, when he came to Missouri, locating in Platte County. Then he removed to Cla\- County, and in the autumn of 1S52 located where he now resides. He purchased 560 acres, tliere then being about thirty acres under cultivation, on which was situated a small log house, in a dilapidated condition. He soon conmienced the erection of his commodious residence, and, being a carpenter b)' trade, did the greater portion of the work. It is now one of the most attracti\'e and desirable residences in the countr}-. His estate consists of about 600 acres, is divided by fences, and well adapted for stock raising, which business he makes a speciality, and in which he deals largeh\ Mr. L. has beeii a man of untiring industry, and his judgment is excellent, his success in life being due to his own exertions. In the home circle he is one of the most genial of men. His wife, formerly Miss Mary Haynes, a native of Kentucky, he married in 1S48. She is a lady of refined tastes. The}' have six children : William W., Susan, Loyd, Jr.. Dora A., Elizabeth and Viola. Mr. and Mrs. L. are nriembers of the Soutiiern Methodist Church.

farmer and stock raiser, section 15, post office Gower. A well known pioneer of Clinton County and a man who fic^tired conspicuously in the early da)-s of Northwest Missouri, was Mr. Daniel McKissick, father of the -subject of this sketch ; he was a native of North Carolina, and came to Clinton Count}' with his family in 1833, Incating^ on the farm which his son now occupies ; he was one of the earliest justices of the peace, and, also, a surveyor ; he raised a good deal of corn in those early days, and those who were unfortunate, in having short crops, were generally accomodated by Mr. McK. He was a man of excellent judgment, and his counsel was often sought after b}' the early citizens. His home was always open to the stranger, and his hospitality is well remembered by the few pioneers who still survive. In 1843, he was with the first caravan to cross the mountains to Oregon, returning in 1846 ; he was a sergeant in the war of 18 12, and a personal friend of Colonel Benton. It was he who suggested to the court the name of Clinton for the county and that of Plattsburg for the county seat. He was an admirer of DeWitt Clinton, hence the name, and Plattsburg. as a memorial of the war of 18 12. and the battle of Plattsburg, New York. His death, which occurred in Clinton County many years ago, was mourned by a large number of acquaintances. D. P. McKissick was born in Bedford County, Tennessee, February 20, 1820, and came to Clinton Count}' with his parents, in 1833. and was here raised and principall}- educated. He is closely associated with the county's progress and has always manifested a live interest in educational matters. To him much credit is due for having the tounship laid off, at an early day, into school districts and the inauguration of the public school system. During his sojourn here, he has been a justice of the peace for sixteen years, and has, also, been honored b\- the people in holding the office of county judge. Before the v/ar ^Ir. McK. was a Whig, but since then he has been found in the Democratic ranks. He has an excellent memory and is a close observer In public and domestic circles, he is one of the most festive of men. He was married, in 1S58, to Miss Mary Jane Wedin, of Saline County, Missouri. They have had seven children: Martha A., Joseph E., Mary C, Daniel T., Annie, Jacob H., and Minnie.

stock raiser, section ^^, post office Plattsburg. Mr. John McKown. an early settler of Clinton County, was a native of Kentucky, and came to Clay County when a boy, where he was raised, married and lived until 1832 or '33. Then he became a resident of Clinton, locating where his son William now resides. He entered 240 acres of land, and was the first settler ill what is now one of the i^arden spots of Clinton Count)'. I'"rom that time to the present he has been closely associated with the cjrowth and progress of the county. William McKown was born in Clay County, December 10, 1828, and came to Clinton County with his parents. Since then he has made this his home. He received the benefits of the early schncils- of the county, which in his time was in a small log structure, with split poles for seats, and a portion of a log out of the side of the building to admit the light. At the breaking out of the rebellion Mr. McK. was among the first to tender his services to the Confederate cause, enlisting September 12, iS6i. He was with General Price, and participated in the battles of Lexington, i'ea Ridge, and a number of skirinishes, serving seven months. He was married in 1850, to Miss Martha Sherrer, of Clinton County. They had six children : Thomas E., Will.. John, James W., Maggie and AUie. Mrs. McKown's death occurred November 25, 1S77. Mr. McK.'s estate embraces 256 acres of the most desirable la^d in Clinton County. In stock raising and feeding he is one of the most prominent in his section. He is an active member of the Free Will Baptist Church.

James B. Matthews

section 13, post office Plattsburg. The subject of this sketch is a native of Kentucky, and was born January ii, .1833. There he learned the trade of carpenter, and also engaged in farming. In i860, he emigrated to Missouri, and settled where he now resides. Fie has 245 acres of good, average land, equal to any in this section, most of which is under cultivation. He was married April 13. 1854, to Miss Martha K. Smith, an estimable lady. The)- have eleven children : Mar)- A., Arthur T., William W., Annie K., James B., Mattie S., Edna. Ernest, Harry C, Katie and an infant. They are members of the Missionary Baptist Church.

J. W. Moore

farmer and stock raiser, section 27, post office Gower, is one of the largest stock feeders in this township. He is a native of Virginia, and was born near Harper's Ferry, August 5th, 1847. His father, Milton ^loore. came to Daviess County. }iIissouri. with his family, in 1S47, and afterwards, to Buchanan County, where the subject of this sketch was a resident for a number of years. Major Milton Moore is among the best known business men and farmers of Northwest Missouri.- For many years he has been in the stock business, making his headquarters at Gower. J. W. located where he now resides in the spring of 1881. He is a thoroughly experienced stockman, and in his transactions is peculiarly clear and transparent. In 1869, Miss Fanny McClellan, of Clinton

County, became his wife. Tlicy have six chiKlren : Milton, Willie, Ilattie, Carrie, Neele)- and Edward. Mr. M. Ijelon^s to the Central Protective Association.

Samuel Nash

farmer and stock raiser, section 24, post office Gowcr, is a native of Eranklin County, Kentucky, and was born May 25, 181 1. His father, Jeremiah, was a native of \^irginia, and died when Samuel was in h.is seventh year. When in his fourteenth \-ear, the subject of this sketch, with his mother and her family, came to Missouri, locating in Cla\- County, near Libert)', residing there two \'ears, then moved to Eishing River, where they remained some years, eventually locating in Clinton County, on the farm now occupied by them. Mr. Nash has been one of "the most industrious and progressive citizens of the county, and has contributed his sliare towards its development. He came to the count}' when in meagre circumstances, and has made a handsome competency by his own exertions. On the 12th of January, 1S34, Miss Annie Williams became his wife. She is the daughter of John and Catharine Vv liiiams, and was bom in North Carolina, ^vlarch 2"], 1815. They ha\"e had thirteen children, four of whom are living: Wilson, Justina. Mary E. and Samuel Jackson. Lost nine : Beckie, Jerry. Georgs. William J.. Melinda, Sarah Catharine, Amanda. E. M., Emma A.

Cornelius O'Conner

section 22, post office Plattsburg, is a native of Ireland, and was born in 1833. At the age of eighteen years he emigrated to America, and settled in Kentucky, where he followed the occupation of farming. In 1863, he moved to Illinois, and settled in Coles County. After a residence there of thirteen years, he came to this state and settled where he now resides, being the possessor of 380 acres of average land, most of which is under cultivation. In 1853, Mr. O'Conner married Miss Ellen Murphy. They have six children : John W., Batt\-. Dennis, Thomas, Patrick, Cornelius, and have adopted one girl, Maggie. They are members of the Catholic Church.

farmer and stock raiser, section 7, post office Plattsburg, is as popularly known as any of the early settlers of Clinton County. He is a native of Boone County, Missouri, and was born August 26, 18 i6. His father, Robert, was a native of \^irginia. and came to Missouri in 1807. He uas a soldier in the war of 18 12, and became a resident of Clay County in 1820. He helped to build the first warehouse at Liberty, and took an active part in the development of Northwestern Missouri. The grandfather of G. H., Abraham Grooms, was an early settler of Clinton County, hcwini^ located where the subject of this sketch now resides in 1S36, the same time that the Poai;e family came. The county at that time was in its natural condition, the hand of man luivini,^ done but little towards its development. To them much credit is due for the present substantial condition of the territory in their immediate \'icinit)'. They passed throuLjli the various inconveniences subject to the settlement of a new country, ever persevering and triumphed over all obstacles. The estate of Mr. P. consists of 255 acres. He keeps good grades of cattle, and in stock raising does a business tliat will compare with any in the community. He was married in 1S39. to Miss Hannah Victor, a native of Lewis County, Kentucky. By this union they have ten children living: Mary Ann, Xancy Elizabeth, Robert, Sarah Ellen. William B., John S. Martha M., David S., Alfred R. and Abraham G. Lost one - James Allen.

B. F. Foe

^""T-"^- p-td -''-.ccl- raider, section 34, post office Gower, was born November 25, 1836, in Clinton County, Missouri. His father, William, was a native of Gerrard County, Kentucky, and was a soldier in the war of 18 1 2, and participated in the famous battle of the Thames in L'pper Canada October 5, 18 13, where General Tecumseh was killed. He served under General Harrison. Mr. Poe came to Clay County, Missouri, at an early day, and to Clinton Count}' in 1836, being among the pioneers. He was also for a time a resident of Buchanan Count}-. He was greatly interested in the general development of the country until his death, which occurred December 31, 1S76, in Holt Count}-. B. P\gave himself the benefit of a good education by close application to his books during his limited school davs and employing his leisure hours for over twent}- years, and has been among the foremost teachers and educators in Clinton and Buchanan Counties. In religious matters he is among the active workers, as well as of affairs pertaining to the advancement of the public generally. Since 1865 he has been an elder in the Christian Church. He was married in 1862 to Miss Percilla P}-le. By this unon they have four children : Alice, Emma, Curtiss and Nellie.

H. C. Poe

of B. ¥. & H. C. Poe, agriculturists, and of the firm of Poe &; Jamison, merchant-i. Gower, is a native of Clay County, Missouri, was born Januar}- 29, 1840. and is the son of the pioneer William Poe. He has been a resident of Clinton and Buchanan Counties the geater portion of his life, and has contributed amply toward the development of the agri-

(dccea.'-'ed). Among the joioneers of Clinton Count)-, the subject of this sketch is \vorth\- of more than a passing nr)tice. He was a native of Kentuckx', and was born June 14, 1804. He there married. Jul)' 15, 1S24, Miss E. B. Brockman. She was born Januar)- 21, 1S09. They came to Clinton County, in 1S53, locating in close proximity to where the town of Grower now stands. Mr. R. and his good wife were recognized as the most industrious and progressive of people in the neighborhood, fnr many )-ears, and took an acti\'e part in working for the welfare of their adopted county. Like a score of other earl)' settlers, they have passed awa)' from this earth, but not from the memory of the people. Mrs Rockwell's death occurred August 20, i<S74, and on the i4th"of September, 187S, she was joined, in her heaven!)- home, b)' her husband. They had a tami!)- of twelve children. A number of the sons are sterling and prominent agriculturists of Clinton Count)-. The names of the children are: Elizabeth F., born February 22, 1826 (wife of Josiah Braly); Clifton T., born in 182S; Francis M., born May 5, 1830, and died in 1869; Louisa C, born ]\Ia)- 9, 1S32 (married S. I3raly November 3, 1853); Wealth)- A., born January 13, 1834, and died Januar)- 8, 1872 (married Tazwell Parr); Richard H. L.. born July 13, 1836 (married Miss L. Saulsbury); ]\IaT)- A., born ^la.y 7, 1S39 (wife of Marion Riggs); Stephen W., born December 26, 1841 (married Josephine Davis); Lucy E.. born October 30, 1844; John M., born May 6, 1847; William C, born January 30. 1850 (married Octavia Young, April 17, 1876); Isaac N., born July 15, 1S52. The Rockwell estate is located on section 3.

stock raiser and dealer, section 19, post office Plattsburg, is a leader in the stock business of Missouri, and is well known in the northwest. He is a native of Clay County, Missouri, was born October 14, 1843, and is the son of Robert Scearce, deceased, who was one of the earl)- settlers of ^Missouri. R. L. became a resident of Clinton County in 185 i, and has here been raised to manhood and -educated. Bob, as he is usuall)' called, has alwa)-s been a farmer and stock raiser, and, by his good judgment and strict attention to business, has made of it a grand and well deserved success. His landed estate embraces about 600 acres of land, which is well adapted and arranged for stock purposes. An attracti\e and substantial residence, with out-buildings to conform, adorn his farm and nuikc it one of the most desirable in Atchison 'J^oun^hiij. Me was married Febriiar)- i, 1S66, to Miss Mary M. l-Jii^gerstaff, a daughter of the well known Clinton Count}- pioneer, Samuel G. Biggerstaff. They ha\'e six children Ii\ing : Emmett, Lewis. W'illiam, Maud E., Aim liliza, and an infant.

farmer and stock raiser, section 17, post office I'lattsburg. The subject of this sketch is a native of Cla\' Count}-, Missouri, and \\'as born Januar}- 7, 1S48. While he was of an earl}- age, the famih- emigrated to this count}-, where he has since resided. He has 460 acres of land, making in all one of the finest stock farms in the state, and as a stock raiser, he is well and favorabi}- known throughout this district. His wife was, formerl}', Miss Laura T. Thompson, an estimable lady. The}- ha\-e as a result of this union a famil}- of four children, IMinnie L., Lizzie A., Nanc}- A. and an infant. Of such men as INIr. Scearce the citizens of Clinton County ma\- well be proud, and although yet a comparati\'ely young man, he stands in the front rank of our representative farmers.

G. R. Shepherd

section 28, post office Plattsburg, was born in Harrison (now Carroll) County, C)hio, Februar}- 10, 1818. His father, James, a native of County Fermanah, Ireland, came to America in 18 15. The subject of this sketch was educated and reared to manhood in his native county, following agricultural pursuits until 1861, when he became a resident of Clinton Count}-. His present farm he purchased in 1862, and it now consists of 407 acres of choice land, in a good state of cultivation. His imposing and handsome residence was built in 1876. A fine barn and orchard adorn the farm, and everything indicates a skilled and experienced management. Mr. S. is a great reader, and his mind once made up, it takes strong and convincing arguments to change it. He was married in 1844, to ^Nliss Letitia Atwell, a native of County Fermanah, Ireland. They have had eight children, fi\e of whom are li\-ing : Eliza A., John F., Charles W'., G. Alexandria, Letitia May ; lost three, Mary Jane, Tursey and James M. Himself and family are members of the M. E. Church.

Daniel Smith

justice of the peace. I'his gentleman has long been intimatel}- associated w-ith the interests of the town of Gower, and is also one of Clinton Count}-'s earl}- settlers. He is a nati\e of Lincoln Count}', Kentuck}-. His father, Elias, who was a nati\-e of \'irginia, was among the old settlers of Kejitucky, and removed to Barren CoLinty, ol that state, when

Daniel was quite jounc:^. He was there raised to manhood, antl educated, his early days bein^^ spent in tilling the soil. In 1857, he came to Missouri, locating in La Fayette Township. Clinton County, where he engaged in farming, and there" resided until 1 866, when he removed to his present location. Fie owned the land on wliicli Gower now stands^ laid out the town in company with the St. Joseph Land Company, the plat being made in Mr. Smith's name, and he gave one-half of the lots away, and has done much towards making it the live trading point that it has become. Mr. Smith is a man of clear judgment, and, since 1858, has been justice o[ the peace, at different periods, holding the office in La Fayette Township for seven years, discharging the duties creditably. He was married in 1841, to Miss Mar}- E. McDaniel, of Kentucky. They have had nine children : Elias T., Sarah E., John R., Albert, Daniel W., Henry C, Birdella, William B. and Bettie \V., deceased. Himself and wife are active members of the Christian Church.

uAiW'^r and slocl. raiser, section 25, post office Gower, a distinguished agriculturist of Clinton Count)-, and a pioneer in Northern Missouri,, who is favorably known, is a native of Jessamine County, Kentucky, and was born March 16, 1825. His father, James, was also a native of that state and emigrated, .with his family, including T. J., to Missouri, in 1845, locating in Buchanan County, close to the Clinton County line and a short distance from where Gower is now situated. Pie was engaged in farming until the time of his demise, which occurred October I, 185 I. Having been born May 30, 1801, he w-as, consequently, in his fiftieth year. His wife was formerly Miss Fannie S. Gatewood ; she was born February 2. 1799, and died January 13, 1873. The subject of this sketch taught his first school in the neighborhood of where the family located in Buchanan County, during the winter of 1845-6. The building w-as a log structure, 16x16 feet. Among his scholars was Thomas Finch, present deputy clerk of Buchanan County, and Eph. Kelly. In 1849, Mr. S. located where he now resides, and has since been identified with the growth and prosperity of the county. He is a successful farmer, and owes his success in life only to his own exertions and business tact, having been supported by untiring attention to his labor. In all commendable enterprises for the advancement of the public good, he is to be found among the foremost. Mr. S. has been twice married. First, in 184S, to Miss Josephine Biggerstaff ; she was born February 26, 1833, and died December 30, 1871. The result of this union was ten children, seven of \vhom are living: Dorcas D., deceased. Larkin E., deceased, Robert M., Rufus A., James S., John Thomas, George L., Joseph Wyatt, and Kelly Woodson, deceased. On the 22d of June, 1873.

Mary Eliza Kvaiis became his wife. Their family consists of Rhoela, Macjgie and Birdella, twins, born January 15, 1S76. former is deceased; Toh'ver, born March 9, hS/j, and Evans, born May 31, 18S0.

farmer and stock raiser, section 8, post office Plattsburj^, owes hisnati\'ity to North Carolina, havinc^ been born in Orange County, March 11, iSio. His father, Samuel, moved to that state from Pennsylvania. S. H. spent his early days in tilling the soil of North Carolina, and there resided until 1S36, when he became a resident of Clay County, Missouri. In 1843 he came to Clinton County, engaging in agricultural pursuits near Hainesville. He early was an eminent tiller of the soil in that section, and held the office of justice of the peace for several terms. In 1867 he located where he now resides, his estate now consisting of 250 acres, 200 of which are under cultivation. His residence, an attractive one, is pleasantly located, and indicates comfort and taste. He was married in 1843 to ?.Iiss Elizabeth Hale, of Kentuck}-. Ry this union they have had five children, three of whom are living: James, Laura and John B.; lost two, Monroe and Annie.

farmer, is a native of Woodford County, Kentucky, and was born near Versailles, October 7, 1S14. His father, James, was a native of that state, and in 1S21, with his family, including \V. W., emigrated to Missouri, and located in Clay County, three miles northwest of Libert}-. He was one of the pioneers of that county, and was there engaged in agricultural pursuits. The subject of this sketch was here raised to manhood, receiving the benefits of the schools of that day, which were few in number and inferior in quality. He pursued the vocation of farming until 1S56, when he came to Clinton County, locating where he now resides. Since that time, he has been interested in its agricultural developments, and its religious and educational progress. Mr. T. is liberal in his views, a deep thinker, and is possessed of excellent conversational powers. He assisted in suppressing the Morman difficulties in Caldwell County, with which many of the old and new settlers are familiar. Mr. Tillery has occupied the- pulpits of the Baptist Church for several years. He has been three times married. First, in 183S, to Miss Susan H. Poe. They had eight children, four of whom are living : Mary, Thomas. Emily and Jennie. Mrs. Tillery's death occurred January 6. 1856. On the 19th of April, 1S57, Mi<s M. A. Poe became his wife, and by this marriage they had four children : Albert D., William, Annie B.. now living, and Leander, deceased. Mrs. Tillery died July 19,

,1867. Oil the 24th of Ma\-, 1869, he married Mrs. Maria C. Vermillion Hy the latter union, he has had five children : iMnbree D., S. J., M) ra Grace, Gold Allen ; lost one, Leander J. His father, James Tillery, was a resident of Clinton Count)-, until his death.

farmer and stock raiser, section 2, post office Gower, is one who has d(jne his part towards j:^ivini^ the count}' its present en\iable reputation. lit: is a native of Shelby County, Kentucky, and was born September 17, iSi I. His fatlier, Thomas, is supposed to have been a nati\'e of Virc;"inia. The \\'ea'kle}-s are of Enijlish ancestry. The subject of this sketch spent his earl}- days in tilling the soil, and received a limited education in the old fashioned log school of that period. When a )'oung man, he met with a serious misfortune, whereby one of his limbs was injured. He then forsook farming, and learned the harness making trade, v\hich lie followed for fi\e )ears. In 1852, he came to Illinois, and, in the spring of 1853, came to Clinton County, locating where he now resides. He had many of the difficulties with which early settlers have to con- Lt:iiu, but, ueinu a man of sterling merit, and one not afraid of work, soon overcame these perplexities. His success in life is evinced from the fact that 475 acres of choice land no\v comprise his estate, the greater portion of which is under cultivation. Mr. W. was married, in Kentucky, to Miss Elizabeth Thralka. The\- ha\-e ten children : Mary, Eliza, Leander, Orin, Charlie, John, Willard, Orfie, Lucy and Thomas Jackson. Himself and family are members of the ^Missionary Baptist Church. ; . .

farmer and stock raiser, section 2, post office Gower, v.-as born in Shelb\- Count)-, Kentuck)-, November i, 1830, and is a son of Thomas Weakle)', who was a native of \'irginia. In 1849, J. C. came to St. Joseph, Missouri, and in the autumn of 1853, located where he now resides. His estate consists of 243 acres of choice land. He has been twice married ; first, in 1852, to Mary Thomas, by whom he had four children : Ella and Mary T., now living ; two are deceased : Annie and Laura B. Mrs. W. died during the war. His second wife was Mary Lyons, and by this latter marriage there are four children living: Lulu D., Robert E., Ben F. and Ira. Lost one, John. Himself and family are members of the Missionary Baptist Church.

George W. Whitson

native of \'ii-;inia. Me wa-^ amoiic,^ the first t(j h^catc in Clay Count\-, Missouri, and came to Clinton in the sprinc^ of 1833, and hc-re he was closely identified with the development of the count}-, beinc,^ one of the first to make his home in the vicinity of where Cower now stands, ha\'- ing located one mile south of that point. His death occurred in 1840. He was a public sj^irited and enterprisinc,^ citizen, and was admired b\-all. He had been a soldier in the war of 1S12. His son, G. \\'., was born in Tennessee, July 12, 181 1, and came to this state with his father in 1821, livini; first in St. Louis County, thence to Saline County, and afterwards to Clay and Clinton Counties, where the greater portion of the time he has since been a resident. In 1S37-8, he was in the Seminole war in Florida. In 1843. he located in Platte Township, Buchanan Count)-, residing there until 1S46, and was one of the first farm openers and residents in that locality. In 1846, he returned to Clinton County, and settled where he now resides. His present estate, consists of over 266 acres, the greater portion of which is under cultivation. Mr. W. is a w-ell informed gentleman, and to him we are indebted for many \aluable articles pertaining to the earlier settlement of Atchison Tounship. He was married in 1S44 to Miss Xancy Smith. She is the daughter of Hugh Smith, Kji Aicieei Lounty, Kentucky. They have three children, John Madison, James Harvey, and Mary Frances. Mr. \V."s mother, formerly r\Iiss Sarah Jeffries, died in Clinton County, in 1S72.