Bloomington Township

Bloomington Township

The spacious building in which Derge & Hagenstein do business is owned by the Masonic and Odd Fellow orders. The second floor is used by Wellington Lodge No. 22, A. F. and A. M., chartered May 6, 1852, with W. C. Moore as W. M. ; William Howard, S. W. ; L. R. Ringo, J. W. ; A. C. Craig, Sec, and Holland Jones, Treasurer. The lodge is in a flourishing condition, having a membership of fifty-nine.

Ringo Royal Arch Chapter, No. 6, chartered May 22, 1863, also meets in this hall. Its charter members were General John T. Martin, H. P., Dr. Samuel Goslee, King and Thomas J. Crumpacker, Scribe.

Aram Encampment No. 45, I. O. O. F., also meets here, and was instituted July 5, 1869, with Ulrich Schneider, C. P. ; W. H. Bowen, H. P. ; John Rivett, S. W. ; J. P. Gant, J. W. ; T. J. Crumpacker, Scribe, and John C. Moore, Treasurer. Present membership, thirteen.

Jesse Blevins

section 2, postoffice DeKalb, was born in Green County, Kentucky, August 18, 1816, and was raised on a farm and educated in the old log school house. When seventeen years of age his father moved to Jackson County, Missouri, where they remained till the spring of 1837, then coming to Buchanan County, where he has since made his home. His farm consisits of 192 acres. In 1847 he went to the Mexican war as a teamster and remained on duty for a year, less one month. He has been for four years constable of his township. Was married April 7, 1839, to Miss Ro?a Lower. She was born in Granger County, Tennessee, October 10, i8i6, and came to Missouri in 1855*, and to Buchanan County in 1837. They have had sixteen children, six of whom are living : Sarah, Francis J., Daniel and Jacob (twins), Lucy E. and Elizabeth.

For the last twelve years Mr. B. has been unable to attend to his work on account of illness. Is the man who carried the first mail from Buchanan County, the route being from Crawford Township to Plattsburg. This he continued for four years.

Gaines Bohannon

farmer, section 2, postoffice DeKalb, was born on the section upon which he now resides, April 22, 1840, and was also raised on the same farm,, and educated in the common schools. Taught a short time, since which he has been engaged in farming. His landed estate in this county consists of 40 acres; also, has 160 acres in Butler County, Kansas, where he has a part of the time made his home. John S. Bohannon, his father, was born March 7, 1806, and was a native of Sullivan County, Tennessee. Came to Buchanan County, Missouri, in 1838, and had followed farming from boyhood. He died July 14, 1879. His mother, Tabitha Foust, was born March 16, 1809, and was a native of Sullivan County, Tennessee. They had a family of eleven children, ten of whom grew up, and eight are now living.

blacksmith, DeKalb, was born in Marion County, Ohio, October 31, 1840, and when five years of age his parents moved to Buchanan County, Missouri, where he has since resided. He was here educated in the common schools, his educational advantages being rather limited. When thirteen years of age he began to learn his present trade in DeKalb, where he has since followed it. Began in life a poor boy and, was the main support of his parents for a number of years. Miss Cleora Smith became his wife December 26, 1864. She was born in Buchanan County, April 24, 1848, and is a daughter of Joseph Smith, ex-sheriff of Buchanan County. They have had five children, four of whom are living: Charles L., born September 24, 1866; Artie M., born October 31, 1874; Anna A., born July 2, 1877; Henry, born November 19, 1879.

farmer, section 30, postoffice Rushville, was born in Bath County, Kentucky, May 22, 181 1, and, in 1832, went to Decatur County, Indiana, and there remained till October, 1835. At that time, he was married to Miss Mary A. Connor, after which they moved to Missouri, and located in Daviess County for two years, then moved to this county, where he has since resided. He now owns 160 acres of land. He previously owned more, but has given to his children. Mr. and Mrs. B. have eleven children : James W., born June 29, 1837; Martha A., born April 4, 1839 j farmer and . carpenter, section 25, postoffice DeKalb, was born at Blue Lick, Nicholas County, Kentucky, September 15, 1830. His father, Daniel, being a carpenter, John also had the advantage of learning that trade. In 1851, he came to Missouri and located in Platte County, where he remained about two years and then came to Buchanan County. Here he has since resided, and during life has worked at his trade, more or less. His farm contains 120 acres. Was in the state militia about eighteen months, acting as drill master most of the time. Was married, September 16, 1852, to Miss Louisa Martin. She was born in Anderson County, Tennessee, September 9, 1832. They have ten children: Martha A., James H., Eliza E., John F., William T., Edward L., Nannie, Florence, Maggie, and Buddie B.

A. M. Brown

farmer and fine stock breeder, section 11, postoffice DeKalb, was born May 4, 1838, and is a native of Decatur County, Indiana. In the fall of that year he was brought to Buchanan County, when, after receiving a fair education in the common schools, he attended the high school at Weston. He spent his boyhood days on a farm till sixteen years of age, after which he was engaged in the mercantile trade for several years. With this exception he has followed agricultural pursuits. He and his mother-in-law own 433 acres, their home farm containing 163 acres. He was married December 28, 1859, to Miss Julia Kendley. She was born in Kentucky, February 22, 1844. They have one child, Mary S., now Mrs. Steele, born October 8, 1861. Mr. Brown is a Mason, and a member of Wellington Lodge No. 22.

Wm. Brown

farmer and stock dealer, section 16, postoffice DeKalb. The subject of this sketch is a son of David and Margaret Brown and was born on the farm where he now resides April 10, 1843. Has followed farming from boyhood, and now owns 157 acres and moderately improved. Miss Priscilla Hainline became his wife February 28, 1867. She was born in Buchanan County, Missouri, November 20, 1844. Six children was the result of this union, three of whom are living : David H., born December II, 1867 ; Lizzie L., born September 7, 1871 ; and Virgie, born January 21, 1877.

Daniel Brumley

farmer, section 21, postoffice DeKalb, was born in Shelby County, Kentucky, February 14, 18 14. His father, William, was also a native of Kentucky, and a cooper by trade, which Daniel also learned. In 1837, he moved to Psirke County, Indiana, where he remained till 1843, the time of his emigration to Buchanan County, Missouri. Here he has since resided. Followed his trade, principally, from boyhood till he moved to his present location, and occasionally since, the remainder o his time being engaged on a farm. His farm contains 321 acres, moderately improved, all of which is the result of his own savings. Was married, September 18, 1834, to Miss Elizabeth J. Brown. She was born in Shelby County, Kentucky, June 4, 18 18. They have had eleven children, eight of whom are living; Mary E., born June 3, 1838; William P., born June 21, 1840; Samuel H., born May 15, 1842; Thomas E., born December 13, 1845; George W., born December 6, 1847; John A., born May 18, 1850; Henry H., born April 3, 1852; Lucy A., born May 10, 1854.

Isaac Clinkenbeard

farmer and gardener, section 12, postoffice DeKalb, was born February 15, 1^23, and when an infant. his parents moved to Bourbon County, Kentucky, where he grew to manhood on a farm. Was for a few years in the mercantile business. When twenty years of age he came to Buchanan County, Missouri, where he has since resided. His farm contains, 156 acres. Also has a fruit and garden spot near St. Joseph. Was married, March 11, 1858, to Miss Mary A. Jones, She was born in Henry County, Kentucky, October 23, 1841. They have had eleven children, seven of whom are living: James H., born December 16, 1858; Mary E.,. born August 28, i860; William J., borp March 28, 1862; Henry E-, born August 14. 1864; Leander, born December 9, 1867; Lewis A., born February 7, 1870; Nannie M., born May 18,. 1873.

blacksmith, wagon manufacturer and dealer in farm implements, DeKalb. The subject of this biography was born January 5, 1832, and is a native .of Madison County, Kentucky. Was raised in his native county. When eleven years of age began to learn his trade. In the fall of 1848 his parents located in Buchanan County, where he engaged at his tradie;, -and in i56i worked in Fort Leavenworth. In 186.2 he went to Mexico and was foreman in the government shop at Fort Unjon for one year when he returned to DeKalb, Buchanan County, Missouri. He followed his trade till 1866 when he moved on a farm and was engaged in farming in connection with his trade till the spring of 1880, when he again moved to his present location in DeKalb. Also has a . farm of sixty acres in section 28, of this township. Was married Octo^ ber I, 1853, to Miss Nancy May. She was born April 26, 1835. They have had nine children^ eight of whom are living : Silas M., John R., Mary F., Ida, Charley, William, Warren and James C, Jr. Mr. C. is a Mason and a member of Wellington Lodge No. 22. Also an Odd Fellow and a member of DeKalb Lodge No. 191.

Thos. J. Crumpacker

notary, justice, carpenter and undertaker, DeKalb, was born in Clarke County, Ohio, January 15, 1832. His parents died when he was fifteen years of age, since which time he has relied entirely upon himself for support. When sixteen years of age he learned his present trade, and, in the fall of 1853, went to the southern part of Illinois, where he was engaged at bridge work, on the Illinois Central Railroad, about three months. After this he came to Missouri, working over different parts of Missouri, and some in Kansas. In November, 1855, he went to Texas, remained there one year, then traveled over some of the Southern States, and arrived in Ohio January 9, 1857. In May, of the same year, byway of Michigan, Chicago and St. Louis, he went to Arkansas and Tennessee, and returned to Buchanan County, arriving in DeKalb July 13, 1857, where he has since made his home. Mr. C. is considered one of the most skillful mechanics of his trade, having had a large experience of about thirty-four years. His property im DeKalb denotes comfort and prosperity, his yard being filled with the finest varieties of flowers, on which subject he is much interested. May 23, 1857, he was married to Miss Susan A. Bretz. She was born in Marian County, Ohio, January 19, 1839. They have had ten children, six of whom are living: Mary A., Flora S., Thomas H., Jennie M., Frank W. and William G. Mr. C. is a Mason, and a member of Wellington Lodge No. 22. He was W. M. of that order for about ten years, and High Priest of Chapter No. 6 about two years. He is also a Sir Knight and member of Commandery No. 4, of Weston.

Zelora E. Crumpacker

carpenter and builder, DeKalb, was born in Miama County, Ohio, February 28,' 1 841, and when about five years of age he went to Harding County, Ohio, to make his home with Anania Jones. He was there raised on a farm and educated in the common schools. In December,

1861, he enlisted in Company G, Eighty-second Ohio Infantry, participating in many important battles, and was wounded at the battle of Dallas, Georgia, May 24, 1864, by a ball passing through his left breast. After this he remained in the hospital ten months, when he was discharged and returned to Harding County, Ohio. He has since suffered very much from this wound. In the spring of 1865 he went to Cedar County, Iowa, where he remained till November, when he returned to Ohio, and was engaged in timber and lumber business till 1872. Then he came to Buchanan County, since which time he has made his home with his brother, and has been engaged at his trade. He is a Mason, and member of Wellington Lodge, No. 22.

of the firm of Derge & Hagenstein, merchants, DeKalb. The subject of this sketch was born in Gruneberg, Prussia, November 21, 1833. Was raised in his native country, and was there educated, receiving the principal part of his education in Berlin. In the fall of 1852, he became infatuated with the glowing accounts of America, and crossed the ocean, landing in New York City in November of that year. First went to Watertown, Wisconsin, where he was engaged as clerk in a bakery till the following spring, when he returned to his native country, having official business. Remained there till 1855, when he again came to America, and located in Wisconsin, where he was engaged in various works till the spring of 1858. Then went to Lyon County, Kansas, and took up a Government claim, but remained but a few months, when he came to St. Joseph, and the following winter went to DeKalb, and engaged as clerk in a store till 1861. Then went to Atchison, Kansas, embarked in the mercantile trade, and pursued the same till 1864, when he disposed of his stock and engaged as clerk. In 1867, he returned to DeKalb, and began in mercantile trade as one of the present firm, since which time has been doing the leading business of the city. Has held the position of postmaster since 1871. Besides keeping a general stock of goods they are also engaged in the grain and stock tradCj the junior partner of the firm attending principally to that department, their stock averaging from $5,000 to $8,000, and doing from $25,000 to $30,000 worth of business each year. In 1873, Mr. D. took a trip to his native home. Was married September 20, i860, to Miss Amanda Bretz, who was born in Ohio, October 24, 1842. ' They have four children - Alice, Frederick, William and Bertha. Mr. D. is a member of the Masonic Lodge of Wellington, No. 22, also an Odd Fellow, of DeKalb, No. 191.

Illinois, where his father, Isaac. H., died' in the fall of 1844. In the spring of 1855, his mother, Elizabeth, with the family of nine children moved to Missouri and located in Buchanan County; The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm and has followed farming during life. He received a good education in the common schools here. He acted as Lieutenant in the Pawpaw Militia a number of months. Has held the office of justice of the peace since November, 1878. He now owns one-half interest in a farm of 140 acres. Was married February 6, 1866, to Miss Susan A. Fauntleroy. She was born in Kentucky, August II, 1840. They have two children - Valley H., born April 21, 1867 ; and Birdie B., born October 5, 1872. Mr. D. has been a member of the Christian Church since 1867 and Mrs. D. since 1876.

farmer and stock dealer, section 26, postoffice DeKalb, was born in Menard County, Illinois, December 31, 1843. In the spring of 1845 he came to Buchanan County, Missouri, where he has since made his home. He received a fair education in the common schools and has taught school about four years. Has made several trips to the western states and territories engaged in freighting. With this exception Mr. D. has always been engaged in farming. His farm contains 140 acres which is moderately improved and well watered. Was married August 4, 1867, to Miss Bettie A. Brown. She was born in Garrett County, Kentucky, June 24, 1839. They have had four children, only one now living - Freddie B., born March 17, 1875. Mr. D. is a mason and a- member of Wellington Lodge No. 22.

David M. Dix

of the firm of Harmon & Dix, merchants, DeKalb, was born in Platte County, Missouri, April 29, 1850, and when only a child his parents moved to Buchanan County, where he has since resided. He received his primary education in the common schools of this county, and afterwards attended the State University two years, having taught school to pay his expenses while at this institution. He taught his first school in the year 1871, and followed the profession till the time he became a partner in this firm, in January, 1881. He was married March 26, 1879, to Miss Frankie Brown. She was born in this county August 8, 1853. They have one child, Maggie E., born January 16, 1880. This firm is doing a fair business, and, being prompt and agreeable, merit the patronage they have obtained.

R. C. Dunlap

his parents moved to Buchanan County, Missouri. Was educated in the common schools, and also took a thorough course in Bryant's Business College of St. Joseph, graduating from this instisutibn in 1865. At the beginning of the war he served six months in the state guards after which he enlisted in the artillery service. Participated in a number of the principal battles and was- wounded June 24, 1864, in the left arm, by a shell, which necessitated amputation. After this he lay in the hospital at Augusta, Georgia, for about three months, and remained in the South till the close of the war, when he returned to Buchanan County. His landed estate consists of 120 acres of land well improved. At present he is engaged in erecting a house of iine structure which will add much to the appearance of a home. Mr. D. was married, December 20, 1866, to Miss Jennie Hurst. She is a native of Buchanan County, Missouri, and was born in August, 1848. They have four children: Leona, born April 16, 1868; James G., born October 20, 1871; Wyatt, born January 24, 1875 ; Lela, born December 27, 1879.

Joseph T. Frakes

farmer, section 12, postoffice DeKalb, was born in Montgomery County, Kentucky, June 30, 18 18, and when twelve years of age his parents moved to Putnam County, Indiana, where he remained ten years, .then coming to Buchanan County, Missouri, where he has since resided. His landed estate consists of no acres. Was married June 16, 1840, to Miss Birdie D. B. Sampson, who was born in Kentucky, October 18, 1822. She died in July, 1872. They had eight children - Elizabeth, born August 25, 1841; -Nathan T., born March 30, 1843; Jackson, born March 14, 1845 ; W. N., born February 20, 1847 ; Benjamin, born October 26, 1849; Willis, born August 6, 185 1 ; Anna J., born May 12, 1853 ; and Sednie A., born October 13, 1855. Mr. Frakes was again married October 2, 1875, to Mrs. Charlotte Tyler.

farmer, section 4, postoffice DeKalb, was born in Page County, Virginia, April 19, 1830, and was raised in his native State. In the fall of 1854 he came to St. Joseph and remained over winter; in the spring of 1855 he located in Bloomington Township, where he has since resided except from 1859 to 1862, when he was in Doniphan County, Kansas. His farm contains seventy acres, which is the savings of his own labor and business tact. He was in the Pawpaw militia two years. Was married Npvember 27, 1851, to Miss Lucinda Utz. She is a native of Virginia They have no children of their own,, but have raised one child and partly three others..

James Gabbert

farmer, section 13, postoffice DeKalb, was born in Bartholomew County, Indiana, April 18, 1830, and when eighteen years of age his parents moved to Buchanan County, Missouri. Was raised on a farm and has followed that occupation during life. In 1856 he went to Leavenworth County, Kansas, where he remained till the spring of 1876, when he returned to Buchanan County. His farm contains 109 acres all of which* is the savings of his own labor. March 17, 1853, he was married to Miss Melvina Ellison. She was born in Rush County, Indiana, July 8, 1838. They have had ten children, eight of whom are living - Elizabeth C, Melvin M., Wm. R., Ella N., Emma B., Mary O., Eva M., and Charlie.

farmers, section 14, postoffice DeKalb, are both natives, of BuchauiEin County, Missouri. A. J. was born August 30, 1844, and J. M. was born January 11, 1846. They have been raised in this county, and have followed farming from boyhood, and are the owners of a farm of eighty acres. They are both members of the I. O. O. F. lodge. Their parents were natives of Virginia, and came to Buchanan County, Missouri^ about 1840. They had a family of ten children.

Stephen Garton

DeKalb, was born in Decatur County, Indiana, May 15, 1826, and was reared in his native county till thirteen years of age, when his parents emigrated to Buchanan County, Missouri. Was brought up on a farm and engaged in farming till twenty-four years of age, since which time he has been engaged in the saloon business. In the summer of 1846, he went to New Mexico, and engaged as teamster in the Mexican war till the spring of 1867, when he returned to DeKalb. Was married, August 8, 18150, to Miss Sarah J. Percy, who was born in Putnam County, Indiana. She died June 12, 1855. They had three children, two of whom are living, Lawrence W. and Leroy. Was again married, November 28, 1855, to Miss Jane Bretz. She is a native of Marion County, Ohio. They had five children, four of whom are living: James B., Blanche, Florence B. and May.

Isom S. Gardner

farmer and stock raiser, section 23, postoffice DeKalb, was born July 25, 1813, and is a native of Madison County, Kentucky. He never attended school a week in his life. Came to Buchanan County, Missouri, arriving October 29, 1838, and entered 160 acres of land where he now resides.

His landed estate consists of 265 acres being comfortably improved, all of which is by his own labor, having come to the county with a very small amount of means. From the time he was twenty years old till twenty-five, Mr. G. was employed in driving stock south to Petersburg and other points. November 19, 1835, he was united by marriage to Miss Mary Thurman. She was born in Madison County, Kentucky, August 4, 1 82 1, and was raised in her native county. They have had nine children, seven of whom are living' - Elizabeth J., born November 19. 1837 ; James A., born April 2, 1843 ; Mary R., born April 15, 1846; George I., born February 23, 1852, Wm. C, born September 25, 1853 ; Harrison B., bom August 16, 1856 ; and Warren, born October 11, 1859. Mr. G. is a Mason and member of Wellington Lodge No. 22.

Philip Gerner

miller and farmer, DeKalb, was born January 12, 1821, and is a native of Baden, Germany. He was educated in both agricultural and military schools of his native country, and for two years was traveling over different parts of Europe, Italy, Spain, France, Asia Minor, Turkey, Russia, etc. He was for a short time in the Revolutionary war. In September, 1849, he started for America, landing at New York, where he remained eleven months, and after staying a time in Ohio and Kentucky, he came to Missouri and located in Platte County, this being in the spring of 1854. In February, 1864, he moved to Buchanan County, where he has since resided. Has principally followed milling from boyhood, but occasionally has been engaged at various pursuits. His landed interest consists of 140 acres in Buchanan County, and 480 acres in Kansas, besides property in DeKalb. He was married- December 21, 1855, to Miss Ann Crutchfield, born in Kentucky, October 6, 1835. She died June 8, 1872. They had seven children, George, bom September 12, 1856; Fannie, born August 2, 1858; Ellen, born July 31, 1861 ; Francis Z., born August 24, 1863 ; Sheridan, born November 21, 1865 ; Sherman, born June 21, 1868, and Katie, born March 6, 1871.

Fred. W. Hagenstein

of the firm of Derge & Hagenstein, merchants, DeKalb, was born in Gruneberg, Prussia, October 2, 1838, and was there reared and received his education, having to work for his board when attending school. When fourteen years of age, he learned the miller's trade, which he followed about two years. Having anxiety to seek a new home in America, with his present partner he crossed the ocean, landing at New York July, 1855, and located in Wisconsin, where he remain till May, 1858, and then went to Kansas, and remained a short time, and came to St. Joseph, where he was employed by Baker, Woodson & Co. till December, when he came to DeKalb. Here he was employed in a hotel till March, 1861, when he crossed the plains to Rock Creek, Nebraska, and was there engaged in mercantile trades of different kinds, also dealing in cattle. In 1863, he went to Whisky Run, Nebraska, and, one year after, he began freighting, visiting most of the the western points, and at the same time trading. He continued this business till January, 1867, when he returned to DeKalb, and began as one of the firm mentioned, his attention being directed principally toward the grain and stock department. The number of car loads of grain shipped by them was about 100 during a year. They also have a number of acres of land, near their location, which they use entirely for pasture. Mr. H. not only came to America without money, but borrowed some to pay his way. He was married May 9, 1877, to Miss Mollie, Martin. She is a native of this county, and a daughter of Dr. John W. Martin. They have one child, Florence. Mr. H. is a Mason, and a member of Wellington Lodge No. 22.

farmer and stock raiser, section 20, postoffice DeKalb, was born in Montgomery County, Kentucky, October 12, 1819. Was educated in the old-fashioned school houses of his native county. 'Spent his boyhood days on a farm and has since followed that vocation. In 1844, he emigrated to Buchanan County, Missouri, and located where he now resides. His farm at that time was mostly covered with timber; it is now among the best improved farms in the county, and contains 160 acres. All he now owns has been gained by his own labor and business tact. Was married February i, 1844, to Sally Harmon. She was born in the same county as himself, December 6, 1817. They have had nine children, six of whom are living: Friscilla, now Mrs. Brown, born November 20, 1844; Lucy, now Mrs. Bundy, born December 8, 1847; Harden, Jr., born June 13, 1850; Francis, born July 13, 1853; Lemuel S., born May i, 1856; Jefferson E., born July 12, 1862. Mr. H. has acted as justice of the peace for four years, excepting a few months.

James Hall

retired farmer, section i, postoffice DeKalb, was born November 19,. 1808, and is a native of Powell County, Kentucky. He was raised in his native county on a farm and was educated in the common schools. Hisfather having died when he was but eight years of age, his educational' advantages were very much limited. Since seventeen years of age he " has been his own architect. He has followed farming from boyhood ; was married to Miss Julia A. McPherson December 25, 1828. She was.

born in Clark County, Kentucky, about 1813, and died July 8, 1878 They had eight children, six of whom are living : William A., Permelia E., Francis M., Henry H., Martha A., and Kate. In 1829 Mr. Hall emigrated to Decatur County, Indiana, and in the fall of 1837 he moved to Jackson County, Missouri, where he remained till the following spring, when he rrioved to Platte County. In the fall of 1841 he came to his present location. His farm contains 192 acres of land, which is moderately improved. Mr. H. has been a member of the Christian Church for thirty-one years, and is a Mason and member of Wellington Lodge, No. 22, of which he has been a member for about twenty-five years.

blacksmith, DeKalb, was born in Rutherford County, North Carolina April II, 1832, and when three years of age was taken to White County, Tennessee. There he grew to manhood and was occupied in farming until about 1859, when he learned the blacksmith's trade, and has since followed it. December 31, 1863, he moved to Robertson County, Tennessee, remained one year, and then came to Buchanan County, Missouri, first locating in Crawford Township. Six years later he removed to Washington County, Arkansas, but soon returned to his present location. Mr. H., was married April 30, 1857, to Miss Elizabeth James, who was born in White County, Tennessee, August 17, 1837. They have had seven children, five of whom are living: Cynthia L., born February '5' 1859; Elizabeth B., born January 16, i860; James B., born November 13, 1865; Nettie A., born March 7, 1867; William H., born July i, 1870.

H. B. C. Harris

physician and farmer, section 25, postoffice DeKalb, was born in Pow.- hattan County, Virginia, February 3, 1825, and was there raised on a farm. After receiving his primary education in the common schools he attended the Concord Academy in Caroline County, Virginia, for three years. In 1848 he began the study of medicine with M. F. T. Evans and in 1848 graduated in the Medical University of the City of New York, after which he returned to his native home and remained one year. He again went to New York City, and in February, 1850, came to St. Louis and remained till July, when he located in Weston, Platte County, Missouri. Was at this point engaged in the practice of his profession for about twenty years, during that time ranking among the leading physicians of the state and having the confidence of the people in his community. At the end of the time mentioned, on account of disability he gave up the practice and located on a farm and in the .spring of 1879 he moved to his present location. His farni is located in farmer, section 14, postoffice, DeKalb, was born February 19, 1806, and is a native of Mason County, Kentucky. When twenty-one years ot age, he came to Missouri, and remained near St. Louis for about eighteen months, working by the month. He then entered a tract of land, and improved the same, which he sold in 1836, and went to Clay County. In the spring of 1838, he settled in Buchanan County, Missouri, where he he has since resided. He entered and improved the land on which he now resides. His farm contains 140 acres. March 8, 1827, he was married to Miss Sallie Houser. She was born in Mason County, Kentucky, July, 1806, and died in September, 1837. They had five children, three now living : Susan, born July 28, 1828 ; John, born January, 28, 1830, and Alfred, born September 18, 1833. Mr. Hickman was again married December 19, 1838, to Miss Jane Wilson. She was born in Orange County, Indiana, April 13, 1820. Their family consists of Milton, born October 29, 1839 ; Mary E., October 20, 1841 : Elizabeth, February 20, 1844 ; James W., September 16, 1846 ; Nancy J., June 30, 1849 ! Francis M., March 21, 1850, and died March 9, 1874; Isabelle, September 24, 1855, and Sarah G., March 4, 1859.

Thomas Hill

farmer and stock dealer, section 4, postoffice DeKalb, was born April 21, 1826, and is a native of White County, Tennessee. He remained in his native county till fourteen years of age, when he came to Buchanan County, Missouri, where he has since resided except from the spring of 1865 till the fall of 1868, during which time he was engaged in freighting and mining in the mountains. With this exception he has followed farming from boyhood. He was in the Pawpaw Militia about three months. His farm contains 455 acres, which is all well improved and well supplied with stock. Mr. Hill was married July 30, 1846, to Miss Margaret Norris. She was born in Johnson County, Missouri, January farmer and stock raiser, section 20, postoffice DeKalb, was born in Lafayette County, Missouri, March 30, 1820. In 1838, he came to Buchanan County, Missouri. Has followed farming from boyhood,, and his landed estate now consists of 310 acres, all well improved. All he riow possesses has been obtained by his own labor, as he began for himself when fifteen years of age. Was married, July 19, 1849, , to Miss Frances E. Ellison. She was born in Missouri in October, 1826. They have had eight children, three of whom are living : Sarah A., now Mrs. Brumley, James E., and Arminia. He is a member of Wellington Lodge No. 22, Masons.

Captain P. A. Jones

farmer and teacher, section 21, postoffice DeKalb, is a native of Buchanan County, Missouri, and was born September 6, 1838. Was educated in the common schools of this county and at Pleasant Ridge College. During life he has taught school for about twenty-three years. His landed estate consists of 204 acres. In 1861 he enlisted in the Union army serving in the State and Federal service till the close of the war, entering as private and being mustered out as captain. Was married February 23, 1862, to Miss Sarah E. Garton. She was born in the same county as himself December 27, 1845. They have had nine children, seven of whom are living : Abraham L., born December 23, 1862 ; Samuel B., born May 15, 1865 ; Mary L., born August 13, 1867 ; Mattie M., born March 21, 1869 ; Wm. H., born August 30, 1872 ; Lillie B., born Qctober 10, 1875 ; Charley A., born October 3, 1877. Captain J. is a Mason and a member of Wellington Lodge No. 22.

farmer, section 30, postoffice Rushville, was born in Clark County, Indiana, December 14, 1829, and when two years of age his parents moved to Bartholomew County, Indiana, where he was raised and educated. In i860, he emigrated to Buchanan County, Missouri, where he has since resided. His landed estate consists of 254 acres. Was married. May

31, 185s, to Miss Clafinda Cox. She was born in Dearborn County, Indiana, October 18, 1834. They have eight children: Martin, born April 18, 1858; Myra, born December 30, 1859; James A., born December 20, 1861; Mary J., born December 25, 1865; Sarah E., born July 24^ 1868; Martha, born September 4, 1870; Virtie E., born April 30, 1874; John C, Jr., born September 26, 1876. Mr. K.'s father, Martin, is of German descent, and was born in Ohio County, Virginia, in June, 1803, and died in Bartholomew County, Indiana, April 20, 1855. His mother, Polly (Robb), was born in Clay County, Indiana, February 28, 1806, and' now resides on his farm. Her grandchild, Mahala Thompson, was born September 10, 1864, and now makes her home with her.

J. M. Lawrence

farmer and stock dealer, section 31, postofifice Rushville, was born in Clark County, Kentucky, September 14, 1819. His parents, John B. and Elizabeth Eve, were natives of Virginia. In the spring of 1855 J- M. moved to Missouri and located in Platte County till, the fall of 1855, when he came to Buchanan County, where he has since resided. He has followed farming and trading in stock from boyhood. His landed estate consists of 220 acres, all of which is the saving of his own labor- Was married September 13, 1846, to Miss E. Sewell. She was born in Clark County, Kentucky, December 29, 1822. They have seven children : Charity A., born June 6, 1847 ; Zachariah T., born June 6, 1849; Walter S., born April 25, 185 1 ; John S., born April 20, 1853; Wm. H., born July 10, 1855 ; Mary E., born February 6, 1858 ; and Milton S., July 23, 1864. Mr. and Mrs. L. are members of the Christian Church.

physician and surgeon, DeKalb, was born October 30, 1816, and is a native of Bourbon County, Kentucky. He was raised in Lexington, where he was educated, and when about seventeen years of age he learned the bricklayers' trade and worked at it for about five years. When twenty-two years of age he began the study of medicine under Dr. Pinckard, of Lexington, Kentucky, and afterwards attended the lectures of the Transylvania University of Lexington, graduating in March,- 1840. He then began his practice in Fayette County, which he pursued till 1854, when he moved to DeKalb, Buchanan County, Missouri. Here he has since been engaged in the practice of his profession. He was married August 20, 1846, to Miss Elizabeth Hart. She was born July 22, 1829, and is a native of Fayette County, Kentucky. They have had fourteen children, seven of whom are living : Nannie, Kittie, Bettie, John W., Christopher II., Mollie, and James D. Christopher H., M. D., was born in Buchanan County, Missouri, November 22, 1854. He was

raised in his native county, and was here educated. In February, 1874, he began the study of medicine with his father, and in the spring of 1877 graduated in the medical department of the University of Louisville, Kentucky. Since that time he has been engaged in the practice of his profession with his father. He was married June 17, 1878. to Miss Bettie Wallingford. She was born in Buchanan County, Missouri, September 17, 1861. They have two children, William and Thomas.

W. S. Martin

farmer, section 35, postoffice DeKalb, was born in DeKalb, Buchanan County, Missouri, February 16, 1848, and has always made his home in his native county. His father, John S., being a miller, the son was also raised in that industry. Since eighteen years of age he has made farming his principal occupation. His farm contains 130 acres. Was married December 16, 1875, to Miss Louisa J. Hyde. She was born in Buchanan County, Missouri, January 14, 1852, and was raised in her native county, and educated in the Young Ladies' Institute, of St. Joseph. They have two children : Charley, born May 26, 1878, and Harry, born March 13, 1880. Mr. M.'s father was a native of Virginia, and his mother of Ohio.

James W. Mitchell

farmer, section 25, postoffice DeKalb, was born in Fairfax County, Virginia, April 20, 1833, and was raised on a farm in his native county. In 1853, he came to Buchanan County, Missouri, and in 1856 moved to Atchison County, Kansas, where he remained about three years. Then went to Colorado, where he was engaged in mining till 1862, when he returned to Buchanan County, Missouri. His farm contains 106 acres. Was married, January 28, 1858, to Miss Sarah J. Bryant. She was born in Buchanan County, Missouri, October 29, 1839. They have had nine children, seven of whom are living: Robert H., born March 11, 1859; Hugh B., born September 13, 1861; Anna L., born December 13, 1865; Elizabeth M., born November 18, 1867; Francis D., born January 18, 1870; Rose E., born September 7, 1872; Mary F., born November 22, 1874. Mr. M. is a member of the Christian Church, and his wife worships with the Baptist denomination.

Benjamin Peel

farhier, section 29, postoffice DeKalb, was born in Lincolnshire, England, April 17, 1839, ^"d when about twelve years of age, his parents, John and Ann (Cook), emigrated to America, landing at New York. They shortly located at Lansing, Michigan, where Benjamin grew to man- hood. In February, i860, he left his home and went to Denver, Colorado, and was engaged in mining in different parts of the mountains, till 1862 when he went to Montana, and began dealing in stock, and running a meat market in Banneck, till 1866, then moved to his present location. He now owns one of the finest farms in Bloomington Township, containing 320 acres, well improved, fine orchard, and an abundance of stock. November 6, 1867, he married Miss Lucy Brown. She was born in Buchanan County, Missouri, January 8, 1847. They have four children : Margaret A., born September 20, 1868 ; John W., born May 7, 1871; Edward E., born May 18, 1873, and Charles E., born October 20, 1879. Mr. P. is a Mason, and a member of Wellington Lodge No. 22.

Hambury Pyles

farmer, section 11, postoffice DeKalb, was born in Mason County, Kentucky, March 3, 18 18, and in 1846, he moved to Platte County, Missouri. In 1858 he came upon his present location. Has followed farming from boyhood, and his landed estate consists of 270 acres. He was married November 13, 1845, to Miss Jane Dye. She was born in the same county as himself, May 26, 1824. They have ten children, all living: Mary L., born November 14, 1846; John M., born May 10, 1848; Margaret G., born April 10, 1850 ; Parthenia P., born December 18, 185 t ; Sarah A., born August 12, 1855 ; Thomas, born June 27, 1857; William, born April 23, 1859; Elenora, born August 9, 1861 ; James S., born October 22, 1863 ; Nannie C, born March 5, 1866.

DeKalb, was born May 15, 1833, and is a native of Clark County, Kentucky. He was raised and educated in this county, and when eighteen years of age began the study of medicine under Dr. James Hood, of Winchester, Kentucky, and graduated in the University of Louisville, Kentucky, in the spring of 1857. He then pursued his practice in Clark County about two years, when he went to Philadelphia, and remained six months. While there he attended the Philadelphia Medical School, and, at the same time, visited all the principal hospitals of the city. He then returned to Clark County, Kentucky, where he continued his practice till the spring of 1867, when he moved to DeKalb, where he now resides. His residence denotes comfort and prosperity. Miss Mary E. Merrit became his wife, March 15, i860. She was born in Philadelphia December 18, 1841, and died May 5, 1874. They had seven children, five now living : Fanny F., born June 29, 1862 ; John M., August 2, 1864; Lenora, October 29, 1865 ; Mary E., April 8, 1868, and James S., April 30, 1872. He is an Odd Fellow, of DeKalb Lodge No. 191.

Judge Cornelius Roberts

farmer, section i, postoffice DeKalb, was born in Green County, Kentucky, November 22, 1809, and was educated in log school houses in which were split benches. October 28, 1828, he was married to Miss Lucinda Thompson. She was born in Edmondson County, Kentucky, August 20, 1812, and was a daughter of a widow. When about twelve years of age they moved to Green County, Kentucky, where she was married. In the fall of 1836 Mr. and Mrs R. moved to Missouri and located in Jackson County, and in the following spring came to Buchanan County and located on the farm where he now resides. His farm contains over 289 acres, all of which was a wilderness when he came here. Mr. R. has been an honorable, upright man and one respected by all who know him. He has been in public office in the county from fourteen to sixteen years, an account of which can be seen elsewhere in our history. He had a family of twelve children : Jesse T., born October II, 1829 ; James E., born October 28, 1832, died June 25, 1862 ; Mary A., born December 19, 1834, died August 29, 1847 ; Wm, T., born February 19, 1837, died May 4, 1881 ; one infant ; Richard M., born October 20, 1840, died July 7, i860; Elizabeth, born June 15, 1843, died March 30, 1845 ; Susan S., born April 26, 1846, died September S, 1S47 ; Cornelius J., born July 27, 1847 ; Francis M., born August 3, 1850 ; Eliza J., born May 28, 1852; and Lucinda L., born August 25, 1868- Mr. and Mrs. R. are members of the Christian Church. Mr. R. is also a Mason and belongs to Wellington Lodge No. 22.

James Sampson

farmer and proprietor of saw-mill. Has always been a citizen of Buchanan County, Missouri, where he was born, October S, 1839. His father, John, who was a native of Kentucky, and his mother Annie (Kaze), a native of Pennsylvania, came to this county in the fall of 1837. His father being principally engaged in a saw and grist-mill, James has also followed that vocation more or less during life. His landed estate consists of 316 acres, having the best of improvements, his house and. barn being above the average of the county. His orchard is fine and quite large. April 12, i860, Mr. S. was married to Miss Mary Meers. She was born in this county March 7, 1844. They have had elevefi children, eight now living : Mary J., born March 8, 1862 ; Martha F., born February 9, 1867; James, born February 28, 1869; Eliza, born October 8, 1872 ; Sula, born January 26, 1874 ; John, born May 15, 1876; Willie, born September 21, 1878 ; Jeffie, born July 5, 1880.

John H. Spratt

farmer and stock raiser, section 36, postoffice DeKalb, was born September 29, 1 8 14, and is a native of Wythe County, Tennessee. When ten years of age,- with his parents, he moved to Green County, Kentucky, where he was raised on- a farm, Which occupation he has followed during life. In the spring of 1875, he came to Buchanan County, Missouri. Was married, January 22, 1878, to Mrs. Elizabeth V. Spratt. Her maiden name was Spencer, and she was born in Kentucky, November 4, 1836. When six months old her parents moved to Missouri, locating in Buchanan County. She was married, February 10, 1856, to James B. Spratt, a brother of her present husband, and he was born in the same county, September 26, 18 16, and also went to Kentucky at the same time as J. H. In 1837, he came to Missouri, and remained till 1840, when he returned to Kentucky. In 1850 he came to Missouri, and located in Buchanan County, where he remained until the time of his demise, February 3, 1875. His death was caused by a shot received from a revolver fired by Frank Brown, who is now in the state's prison for the remainder of his natural life. J. B. Spratt followed farming from boyhood and had a farm of 320 acres, conveniently located and moderately improved. He had a family of nine children, all of whom are living: John M., born November 14, 1856; Eugene H., born August 17, 1858; Mary H., born May 16, i860; Isadore B., born August 7, 1862; William C, born October 29, 1864; Booth, born April 9, 1866; Nannie A., born August 8, 1869; Lula N., born January 12, 1871; Jimmie E., born March 5, 1875.

William T. Steele

farmer and stock dealer, section 8, postoffice DeKalb. The subject of this sketch first saw the light in Madison County, Kentucky, July 18, 1828. His father was a merchant of Richmond, and in 1840 they moved to Missouri and located in Platte County. In 1856 he moved to Nodaway County, where he remained six years and then went to Andrew County, and in the spring of 1866 he moved to Buchanan County. He was educated in the common schools and also attended Bethany College and the Academy of Cincinnati, each for two years. His farm consists of 380 acres of land, which is well improved and conveniently located, having an orchard of about 800 bearing apple trees and other fruits. Mr. S. was married April 17, 1853, to Miss Elizabeth Dooley. She was born in Park County, Indiana, December 11, 1835, and died March 16, 1867. They had four children, John, born February 15, 1854; Sarah, born July 27, 1856; Clara, born December 23, 1858, and Oliver, born October 21, 1862. Miss Julia Dooley, a sister of his first wife, became his second wife, December 18, 1867. She was bor" in Park

County, Indiana, February 4, 1838. They have three children, Silas, born October 4, 1868 ; Elizabeth, born September 30, 1874, and William T., born June 14, 1876.

Benjamin Stewart

farmer, section 30, postoffice RushviUe, was born May 25, 1816, and is a native of Green County, Kentucky. When about sixteen years of age, his father moved to Washington County, Indiana. His parents, Samuel S. and Mary (Howard), were natives of Virginia. His mother died in Kentucky, and his father in Indiana. In the spring of 1841, Benjamin came to Missouri, and located in Platte County, at Weston, where he remained three years, atid then came to Buchanan County. Here he has sin^ce resided, except eight years, when he lived in Platte County. While in Indiana, he worked more or less at the carpenter trade, and, to some extent, after coming to Missouri. His farm contains one hundred and sixty-one acres. He makes a specialty iVi raising fruit, most of which he makes into brandy, having a small distillery located on" his farm. He was married July 7, 1842, to Miss Martha Cox. She was born in Jackson County, Indiana, September 22, 182 1. They have had seven children, three of whom are living: Mary E., born January 31, 1845 ; Ida, born January 29, 1855.; Benjamin, born July 3, i860.

John Underwood

farmer and stock raiser, section 22, postofiSce DeKalb, is a native of New York and was born in Chatham County, September 25, 1813. When about three years of age his parents moved to Orange County, Indiana. In 1828 he went to Fountain County, and in the fall of 1832 to Will County, Illinois. In the spring of 1838 he came to Buchanan County, Missouri. His father died while in Orange County, Indiana, since which time John principally cared for himself Has followed farming from boyhood and came to Buchanan County with a very small amount of means ; entered the land on which he now resides and remained on same till the spring of 1853 when he. went to California and there remained till the spring of 1856, when he returned to Buchanan County. He purchased the adjoining farm and in a few years his old farm, and then moved and has since resided at his present location. His farms contain, 230 acres all well watered and improved land. Miss Betsie A. Dicken became his wife April 12, i860. She was born in -Green County, Kentucky, April 12, 1832. They have had four children, three now living : John A., born March 28, 1862 ; Annetta, born May 6, 1863 ,; Mary E., born December 26, 1864.

W. H. Warren

teamster, DeKalb, was born in Putnam County, New York, October 9, 1841, and in 1855 his parents moved to La Salle County, Illinois. He was educated in the common schools. His father was a miller, and he was also brought up in the same occupation. In 1861, he enlisted in the Federal service in Company I, Fourth Illinois Cavalry. Previous to this he had served three months in Mulligan's Brigade, and at that time was taken prisoner at Lexington, Missouri, but was released in a few days. He served in Company I till the close of the war, and participated in all the battles in which his company took part. During the time he was in service he was not off duty one day. After the close of the war he returned to Illinois, and from there went to Indiana, where he was engaged in railroading till 1871, when he came to Buchanan County, Missouri. Was married July 4, 1867, to Miss Eliza Long. She was born in Ashland County, Ohio, March 27, 1844. They have had five children: Eugene, born September 16, 1870; William H., born January 17, 1872; Mary, born January 19, 1877; Maggie, born April 26, 1879.

Samuel G. West

DeKalb, was born in Montgomery County, Kentucky, October 27, 1836, and in 1843 his parents moved to Buchanan County, Missouri. He was raised on a farm and educated in the common schools. In 1861 he enlisted in the Federal service in Company D, Twenty-fifth Missouri Infantry, remaining with this company eighteen months. He participated in a number of prominent battles and returned to Buchanan County. He re-enlisted in the militia and served till the close of the war. In 1866 he engaged in the saloon business. He was married April 17, 1 88 1, to Miss Polana Chitwood. She was born in Buchanan County Missouri, September 20, 1854. Mr. West is a Mason, and a member of Wellington Lodge No. 22, and a member of DeKalb Lodge No. 191, I. O. O. F.

Jasper Wilson

farmer, section 14, postoffice DeKalb. His father, James, was a native of North Carolina, and was one of the early pioneers of this county, and was murdered at the beginning of the war in 1861. His mother, Priscilla (Moore), was a native of Tennessee. Jasper was born in Orange County, Indiana, April 8, 1822, and when thirteen years of age' his parents moved to Will County, Illinois, and in the fall of 1837 moved to Buchanan County, Missouri, where he has since resided. He was raised on a farm, and has followed that vocation during life. His farms contain 290 acres, being located in different sections. His home farm contains 160 acres, and moderately improved. He served in the State Militia about three years, and under the old law was commissioned lieutenant, which position he held for several years. He was married August 10, 1843, to Miss Mary Garton. She was born in Decatur County, Indiana, May 10, 1824. They have had sik children, four now living: Mary J., born February i2o, 1846; John W., born April 19, 1849; James M., born December 29, 1837 ! Martha E., born August 23, 1867.

John Yager

farmer, section 4, postoffice Halls, was born in Williamsburg, New York, now East Brooklyn, August 13, 1832. He was educated in the German schools of his native city, and also attended the English school a short time. When fifteen years of age, he learned the baker's trade, which he followed four years. From this date till the time of his marriage, he was engaged at various pursuits, in different states, employed by different railroad companies, operating in stone quarries, etc. During this time, he learned the stone cutter's trade, and while at Mount Pleasant, Henry County, Iowa, was married August 5, 1855, to Miss Nellie Melcher. She was born in Germany, December 20, 1833, and came to America about 1853. After residing in different parts of Iowa and Missouri, Mr. Y. moved to DeKalb, Buchanan County, Missouri, and settled on his present location in i860. He resided in DeKalb four years, and then rented a farm about three years. He now owns a farm of 1 5 5 acres, which is well improved, and has sixteen acres of orchard, also about two acres of vineyard, and from which he manufactures first class wine. He has a family of seven children; Emily, born June 14, 1856; Daniel, born November 27, 1858; Francis L., born April 7, 1861; John, born May 6, 1863; Charley, born March 10, 1869'; Mary, born March 6, 1872; and Edward, born July 4, 1876.

Source changes here: from History of Buchanan County and the City of St. Joseph and Representative Citizens : 1826 to 1904, by Rutt, Christian Ludwig, published 1904; 305 words in this source stream.

Bloomington Township

Among the first settlers of what is now Bloomington township was Hiram Roberts, who came in 1836, and who escaped the military raiders. Bloomington is the second township of the southern tier west of the river. The population is about 1,500. Other early settlers were Cornelius Roberts, 1837; Isom Gardner, Amos Horn, John Underwood, Holland Jones, Thomas Hickman, William Hickman, William Ballow, Matt. Geer, Hardin Hamilton, Mrs. Sally Davis, F. D. Davis, Thomas Hill, Maj. . P^rancis Drake Bowen, Stephen Field, James Hamilton and Isaac Van Ploozier, 1837; Zachariah, Uriah. John, William and Lewis Garten, 1838; Michael Gabbard, 1838; Benjamin Yocum, Kentucky, 1839; Richard Murphy, 1839; Robert M. Stewart. New Y'ork, afterwards Governor of Missouri, 1839; Joel Hedgepeth, 1839; James Ellison, William Moore, Da\id Brown, William Clasby, Benjamin Sampson. Abraham and William Womack, J. P. Pettigrew, Fountain and Rice Mc- Cubbin and James G. Finch, 1839.

And Representative Citizens

located on the Atchison branch of the Rock Island railroad, and well equipped with schools, churches, etc. The town was platted by James G. Finch in 1839, and is the oldest in the county, Sparta not having been platted until 1840, and St. Joseph not until 1843. Finch had an idea that the county seat would be located there, and so he laid off his town around a contemplated court house scjuare. \Vhen Sparta was chosen as the seat of justice, Finch left in disgust. The quarter section containing the town site \\a.s afterwards entered by Oliver Norman, who deeded to each settler the lot he occupied. -

Dekalb was always a good trading point, and is so today. The town is not incorporated, though there is a population of about 600. There is a newspaper {The Tribune), a bank, several general stores, hotel, an extensive hardw'are and implement house, drug store, blacksmiths, harnessmakers, barbers, churches, a school, etc.