Centerview Township

Centerview Township

" Ordered by the court, that a new municipal corporation be and the same is hereby established, as follows, to-wit: Commencing at the north¬ east corner of section 5, town 46, range 26, thence west to the northeast corner of section 5, town 46, range 27, thence south on said section to the southeast corner of section 20, town 45, range 27, thence east on said sec¬ tion line to the southeast corner of section 20, town 45, range 26, thence north on said section line to the beginning; and that said territory be known and designated as Centerview township, with place of voting at Centerview. Ordered November 17, 1870."

This beautiful little village was begun as a result of the railroad in 1865. The postoffice was established at that time and Elhanan Roop was the first P. M. The second postmaster was R. C.Hull, and the third, George Washington. At this point there are stores, elevators, mills, blacksmith shops, churches, schools, and all other advantages offered in a country village of this size, and located on a railroad.

Accordng to the United States census for the year 1880, the town of Centerview contained a population of 227. The village is located not far from the geographical center of the township bearing the name. The first store was built by Elhanan Roop, and was occupied by Mr. R. C. Hull as a store for general merchandise. The second store was built by R. C. Hull, who occupies the same and serves as freight and telegraph office. This is quite a shipping point for cattle, hogs, and produce; many droves of cattle coming from the neighboring county of Henry. During the past year from June 1, 1880, to June 1, 1881, about 600 full car loads of stock and produce, aside from the ordinary way-freight business, have been shipped from this station in about the following ratio: 200 carloads of cattle, 200 car loads of hogs, and 200 car loads of grain and produce. The first birth in the towm was a child of George Gentry, and the first death was of this child. The first physician, Dr. J. H. Kinyoun; the first lawyer, Gordon Turner, who was also a preacher and teacher; the first teacher, George BrinkerhofF; the first church built was the Methodist Episcopal; the first preacher was Rev. W. F. Gordon.

The plat shows that Main street runs directly north and south across the Mo. P. R. R. Beginning with the state road from Warrensburg to Holden, and going south on Main street, Howard street is the first, Franklin is the second, Spring the third, North the fourth, then crossing the railroad, and last of all, Rose Hill road. The first street east of Main is Walnut, and the first west is Graham street.

Since God directed Abraham to build an altar on Mount Moriah, and offer thereon his son Isaac, men of all ages have held their religious ten¬ ets as the dearest of all things else. In free America the religious prin¬ ciples of mankind are not brought to a test, and it is not known how deep down into the soul of man the spirit of his God has taken root. Let him be persecuted for his religion's sake, and at once his deepest nature is aroused to do and suffer for his cherished principles. Churches one after another raise their spires from the prairies and hillside, and all men praise their building. The more churches a community has, the more favored its people.

No little village in this whole region has so many churches as Centerview. It has churches of Presbyterians, Cumberland Presbyterians, United Presbyterians, Baptists, German Baptists, Methodist Episcopalians, and Methodists, (colored).

Methodist E-pisco^pal. - This church is situated on Main street, in the town of Centerview. It was organized by Rev. S. F. Beggs, in the year 1871. The church edifice was built by A. P. Hyder, and dedicated by Rev. Dr. G. De La Matyr. It is a frame structure, and cost $1,600. * The pastors of the church have been as follows: Rev. S. F. Beggs, Rev. Beng, Rev. Grant, Rev. Entwistle, Rev. G. V. Houts, Rev. Anderson, Rev. Payne. The following are among the original members of the church: Samuel Porter and wife, William Donnovant and wife, Alfred Dwyer and wife, David Bowdel, Mrs. M. Hull, and George E. Griffith. The present membership is twenty-five. During the winter of 1880-81 there was a revival which resulted in eight additions to thejchurch. At the Sabbath school there is a average attendance of thirty, with George E. Griffith as superintendent.

Centerview Baptist Church. - This little band of faithful Christians was organized in the village of Centerview, May 30, 187 4, by Rev. J.W. Williams and Isaac Newcomb. Though this visible body of Christ has no church edifice, and only a score of members, yet they all are mindful of their duty and the ordinances of God's holy book. Baptists of the present day, just as they always have been, are free-hearted and liberal in their views, and tenacious of their religious belief. God will help him who helps himself, and this little struggling band of Christians will ere long experience the smiles of Providence in abundant showers of grace and material support. Among the spiritual advisers of this Zion are the names J. W. Williams and A. M. Cockrell. The names of the original members are: Dr. J. H. Kinyoun, Mrs. Mary Kavanaugh, Mrs. Nettie Dane, John Oliphant, Elena Rowland, Mrs. Hill, Mrs. James Hill, and Moses W. Steele. Dr. Kinyoun is church clerk.

Cumberland Presbyterian. - This church was organized in 1833, by Rev. J. R. Whitsett and J. B. Morrow. The present neat church edifice was built in 1872 by McSpadden & Hyder, at a cost of $2,300, and ded¬ icated by Rev. J. W. Morrrow. The following pastors have served the church: Revs. J. R. Whitsett, J. B. Morrow, S. Finis King, A. Van Ausdol, J. W. Means, a licentiate, Wm. F. Gordon, Walter Schenck and S. H. McElvaine. Among the early members were Philip Houx and family, the eldest son of whom became a minister; S. C. Graham and family, John S. Graham and family, Rev. J. H. Whitsett and family, Jas. J. Graham and family, Pleasant Carmichael and family. Present mem¬ bership is one hundred and ten. Revs. J. R. Whitsett and J. B. Morrow, now deceased, were efficient ministers under whose labor the church was built up and made permanent. Rev. S. Finis King, is an efficient young minis¬ ter of the gospel, and a grandson of one of the founders of the Cumber¬ land Presbyterian Church. Several important revivals have been held under the ministry of the several pastors. The Sabbath school numbers between sixty and seventy. Rev. S. H. McElvaine is superintendent, and Miss Lulu Kinyoun is secretary.

The Presbyterian Church. - The church building is situated at the north end of Main street where it is now in process of erection, at a cost of $1,600. In 1873 the church was organized by Rev. Mr. Hillis.

Among the original members are: James Kiddo, Thos. McConnell, Hugh Larimer, C. McConnell, Mary Withrow, Mrs. O. F. McConnell, Abner Stitt and George Haymaker. The present membership is about 64. The congregation met in Masonic hall until the new church was ready. The Sabbath school numbers about 70, with Rev. J. S. Poage, superintendent and John Kiddo, secretary.

German Baptist Church ( Dunkard ). - This church was organized about the year 1867, with the following original members: Peter Kinzer, A. Creger, A. Stoner, and daughters of Joseph Royer. The present membership is about 50.

Eairview M. E. Church , South. - This church is situated about three and a half miles southwest of Centerview depot, in Centerview township. It was organized in 1867 by Robert Marshall, with the following original members: Moses G. Mullins, Wm. Morrison, Simon Taylor, Henry etta Burgess, Eliza Spencer, Wm. Cox, Susan Cox, Wm. Ramsey, Wm. Howard and wife, Dorotha Mullins, Kesiah Mullins, Lavina Mullins, Susan Mullins, Aby Mullins, Isaac Carmichael, and Permelia, his wife, Mary Carmichael, and Addison Little.

The frame church edifice was constructed in the year 1872, and dedi¬ cated by Rev. T. P. Cobb, early in the spring of 1880. The cost of the church was about $1,200. Among the pastors we give the names of Robert Carmichael, Thomas Wallace, J. B. H. Woldridge, James Murphy, - Benjamin Margeson, W. L. King, T. P. Cobb, W. S. Woodward.

Methodist Episcopal Church , ( Colored ). - This church is situated on South Main street in the village of Centerview. It was organized in 1871 by Rev. Henry Glenn, with the following original members: Columbus Blair and wife, J. Quoit and wife, Peter Jones and wife, Mr. Godfrey Shroyer and wife, Anderson Walker and wife, Annie Kinyoun, Benny Johnson, Polly Johnson, Ruth Johnson.

Otd Smyrna Church. - With the cemetery thereunto belonging, four miles southwest of Centerview, is an interesting monument of the pious zeal of the early settlers of this community. It is the oldest church build¬ ing in the township and perhaps in the county of Johnson. It was erected during the primitive stage of society in this county, when neighbors, like " angel's visits," were few and far between, and when no one denomina¬ tion hadadherents sufficiently numerous or rich in worldly goods to build a church for its exclusive use. Thus all Christian people in the neighbor¬ hood uniting their labor and means to supply a common want, erected a plain log building about 30 feet square. This has, until recently, stood known through all this region as the "Free Church," but since the new church put up by the M. E. church, South, it has gone out of use. This old "land mark" of Christian devotion was built as early as 1840. Some of the divines who held services there were: Joseph White, Wm. P. C.

Caldwell and Amos Horn, of the Baptist church; J. B. Morrow, of the Cumberland Presbyterian, and Robert Glenn, of the Presbyterian. Over twenty-five years ago this old log church was considered by those " attend¬ ing meeting" there as a "venerable pile;" and the youth of to-day look upon its ruined walls as the place where his ancestors, now dead, sought means of grace and communed with their God. The bones of many a stout-hearted, generous-souled pioneer, rest quietly beneath the stalwart oaks that stand sentinel over the little two-acre inclosure, consecrated and set apart by themselves as a safe receptacle for their own bodies until they should be resurrected at the last great day. Among the graves most plainly recognized is that of Col. James McCown, once a leading spirit in old Johnson county, and who at the beginning of the late civil war held at one and the same time the office of recorder and clerk of the circuit and county courts. Old Smyrna church deserves more than a mere pass¬ ing notice. Its history, faithfully chronicled, would make a very interest¬ ing chapter.

Schools. - The first school house built within the present limits of Centerview township, was an old log structure of the most primitive kind. It was located in the timber on the south side of Briar creek, one and a half miles south of Centerview village. The date of its erection is almost forgotten by the oldest inhabitants, though it is agreed that it was built as early as 1835. Every trace of the building has now disappeared. Another school building was erected in the same district one mile southwest, long before the late civil war. Among the early teachers of this school are: Alexander Gibbs, Addison Van Ausdol, J. J. Graham, and Moses G. Mullins. This school has been known by different names, but was origi¬ nally known as the "Cox school." Two other school districts were organized in the township before the civil war, the Briscoe school in, the southern part of the township and the O wings school in the eastern part of the township. The Briscoe school house was burned during the late civil war. Owing to the confusion incident to the war all schools in the county were discontinued. The first school organized after the war was known as the Graham school. The house was a small frame, erected in 1866, within the present limits of the Centerview district, and about onehalf a mile west of the town site. This was a private school, supported by subscription, and the house was erected by donations from Samuel C. Graham, James Peak and others. Mr. G. H. Sack, who afterwards most efficiently served as county superintendent of schools, was the teacher. For sometime this was the only school in the township, and pupils came six or seven miles to attend this school.

In 1868 Centerview district was organized and the district purchased the aforesaid private school house and Mr. J. C. Crawford was engaged to teach the school, being paid from the public funds. In the year 1872 this school was organized as a graded school, with John E. Hendrix as principal, and school removed to the town of Centerview. The first term of school was taught in the Methodist church, both grades occupying the same building. In the year 1873 the present large and commodious building was erected in the northern part of the town, on land donated by Elhanan Roop, Esq.

The Centerview school has always held a high rank with the public schools in Johnson county. Among the principals of this school since its organization as a graded school may be mentioned John E. Hendrix, George Brinkerhoft, Mr. Wester, Professor Reynolds, Rev. S. H. McElvam, H. W. Roop and W. L. Shipp. There are now eight school districts in the township, all having new buildings well furnished. Much interest is manifested by the patrons in the school work and with such encouragement the teachers cannot fail to succeed.

Masonic Lodge. - Centerview Lodge, No. 466, A. F. and A. M., organized in 1871 with the following officers and members: J. K. Sluder, W. M. ; N. G. Engel, S. ]W.; E. J. Purcell, J. W.; R. C. Hull, S. D.; Henry Lovell, J. D.; J. H. Kinyoun, secretary; A. Bruce, treasurer; J. J. Graham, S. C. Graham. Regular meetings are held at the Masonic hall over the school house, every Friday night before the full of the moon. The present membership is 24. The present officers are: N. G. Engel, W. M. ; R. C. Hull, S. W.; R. R. Scott, J. D.; S. H. McElvain, S. D.; J. H. Kinyoun, secretary; George Haymaker, treasurer; S. R. Huggins, tyler. S. L. Cline and Dr. J. T. Hill were buried with Masonic honors, the latter in 1877, and the former in 1881. This lodge went to Knob Noster in May, 1880, to attend the funeral of a departed brother.

Cemeteries. - Centerview township has several cemeteries, among them we mention the German Baptist cemetery at Centerview, laid out in 1870, and containing at the present time about 100 graves; the J. M. Sluder cemetery, situated about one half a mile south of the depot, having been established as a place for burial for many years, and contains about 100 graves; the Dick cemetery situated about two miles northwest of the depot, it being new, containing one acre of ground, a convenient spot, and graves about a dozen ; the cemetery at the Smyrna church, southwest of Centerview, being the oldest in the township, and at the present time contains not less than 200 graves.

Business Directory

Miss Mattie Ailor, milliner; J. P. Alexander, physician; Geo. L. Baird, carpenter; Lloyd Brown, shoemaker; T. E. Coulter, harness maker; Otho Creager, brakesman ; Solomon Creager, engineer at mill; James Carr, car¬ penter; W. H. Cox, partner in livery; J. M. Davenport, justice of peace for township; William Delaney, principal graded school; Henry Gibbs, wagon maker; Amos P. Hyder, lumber and hardware and builder; B. C. Hull, agent Mo. P. R. R.; R. C. Hull, general store; W. H. Henshaw* family groceries; Theodore Huggins, dry goods and clothing; Rev. Henry Glenn, M. E. church (colored); S. R. Huggins, flour mill; Miss Bertie Hull, telegraph operator; J. H. Kinyoun, physician; Miss Kate Kane, teacher; Hugh E. Larimer, engineer at elevator; W. P. Lattimer, constable for township; W. P. Lattimer, builder; David Moore, black¬ smith; Rev. S. H. McElvain, Cumb. Pres, church; W. P. Oliphant, bar¬ ber; W. A. Porter, partner, grain elevator; Rev. J. S. Poage, Presbyter¬ ian church; Miss Elizabeth Puckett, teacher; A. W. Repp, partner, hard¬ ware and lumber; D. W. Rowland, market and confectionery; R. R. Scott, blacksmith ; M. W. Steele, restaurant; Geo. G. Scott, miller; D. P. Stoner, teacher; Rev. W. A. Sherrard, United Pres, church; Rev. Josiah Thompson, Pres, church; Geo. Washington, post master; G. P. Whitsett, partner, agricultural implements; L. D. Williams, general store; J. J, Wharton, druggist; W. C. Wallace, physician; Geo. Washington, justice of peace; T. J. Whitsett, stock buyer.

In an issue of the Warrensburg Journal- Democrat, dated July 29, 1881, the editor, among other observations upon the town, makes the following:

" Centerview ! shrieked the brakeman as the train slowly checked its speed at the station. We were there at last, and in a few minutes were on the streets of one of the loveliest and most thriving towns of Johnson qounty.

The streets were full of teams, while around the elevator there was hardly room to pass, so numerous were the heavily laden grain wagons, waiting their turn to be unloaded. Everything had an air of business about it, and everybody was busy. A town, however, could hardly be otherwise than lively and prosper¬ ous, surrounded as Centerview is by such a rich agricultural district, and having at its head men of such fine business propensities." section thirteen, Centerview township, was born in east Tennessee in 1827. Moved from Tennessee to his present location in the year 1849. Was mar¬ ried to Miss Welthajane Coxinl851. They have six children, four boys and two girls, all living. The boys' names are: William H. Andruss, James R. Andruss, George Andruss and Edward Andruss. The girls' names are: Mary Emma and Clara Lillie. Mr. Andruss came to this country a young man without any means, and has"worked himself up to his present comfortable circumstances. He has now 830 acres of land in all, about 245 acres of which are under cultivation, and about eighty-five acres of wood land. Does a general farming business, raising grain and hogs mostly.

was born in Johnson county, Missouri, August 19, 1840. His father, Wil¬ liam Burk, was a native of Virginia, and was born in 1809, and emigrated to Missouri in 1834, and located in Saline county. He- came to Johnson county in 1838. Edward J. was educated in the common schools. He is a farmer, and devotes considerable time to feeding stock, and occasionally dealing in real estate, in which he has been quite successful. He remained with his parents until his marriage to Miss Zantippa Whitsett, daughter of John R. Whitsett, Esq., in April, 1872. By this union they have four children: Charles A., Sarah L., George G. and Maggie E. Mr. B. has held the office of school director for nine years. He and his wife are both members of the C. P. church, in which Mr. B. has been an elder for eleven years. Mr. Burk's farm contains 195 acres, and he also owns another farm of forty acres, making 235 acres in all.

farmer and stock raiser, was born in east Tennessee, November 22, 1828. His father, W. T. Conway, was a native of Tennessee, born December 25, 1800, and emigrated to Missouri about 1832, and settled on a farm near Columbus, where he resided until 1849, when he moved to Texas, and engaged in farming and stock raising, and followed this until his death. Edward B. spent his youth on a farm, and received his early education in the common schools of that day, at which time the wolves were so fierce that it was dangerous for children to cross the prairies to school. He has resided in this county ever since he was a small boy. He has spent con¬ siderable time in traveling over the different states. He was married Aug. 25, 1867, to Miss Martha A. Sterling, daughter of J. C. Sterling. They have three children living: Alexander, Veranda V. and Nancy L. They lost one, Porter, who died at three years of age. Mr. C. owns a good farm,, containing 120 acres of choice land, all in cultivation, with a good, com¬ fortable residence. Mr. C. and wife are members of the C. P. church.

The subject of this sketch was born in Bourbon county, Kentucky, in the year 1826. Moved from there with his parents to Morgan county, Illinois. He has followed the business of farming and stock raising all his life. He moved his family, in 1869, to Johnson county. His farm is located on sec¬ tions seventeen and twenty. He was married in the year 1852 to Miss. Isabel Duhope, a native of Scotland, born at Leith, near Edinburgh. Her mother died in Scotland. Her father died in Illinois. Mr. DeLanev has served the neighborhood as school director for two terms, and takes an active interest in the welfare of the county. He was elected justice of the peace, and held the office for two years. They have six children, whose names are as follows: William Richard DeLaney, Mary Ann DeLaney, John DeLaney, Margaret Helen DeLaney, James Benjamin DeLaney and Charles David DeLaney. He is descended from good old Revolutionary stock, his grandfather having served as a soldier from Kentucky, during those struggles for national existence. His wife's uncle being an old sea captain, left as heir-loom to the family a beautiful barometer, manufac¬ tured at Edinburgh, Scotland, with large silver dial and handsomely fur¬ nished case. It is in good working order, indicating approaching storms on the prairie as faithfully and correctly as it did for the old weather¬ beaten tar as he sailed the pathless ocean in " Auld lang syne," and is a con¬ stant reminder that "auld acquaintance should ne'er be forgot." principal of the Centerview schools. Was born in Morgan county, Ill., April 23, 1856. In 1869, he came to Missouri with his parents, and loca¬ ted in Centerview township, where he spent the remainder of his youth, and attended the common schools. He also attended the State Normal at Warrensburg, for two and one half years. He has recently bought out the interest of Whitsett & Porter, changing the name of the firm to Por¬ ter & DeLaney, dealers in grain and agricultural implements.

Matthew Duff

farmer. Was born in Pennsylvania, April 21, 1827. He received his early education in his native state, and afterwards attended the Ellsworth academy, in Ohio, and after that, the Mount Union college. He then engaged in teaching, and taught two schools, of forty weeks each. He was married in 1854, to Miss Lizze Clark, daughter of David Clark. He then engaged in farming in his native county, and followed it until 1871, when he came to Missouri, and located at Centerview, where he and James Kiddoo built the Centerview Mills, the first mills in the town. He exchanged his mill property for his present farm, containing 160 acres, all in cultivation, with a first-class residence, and excellent out buildings, and a never-failing spring of water, near the barn. He moved to his farm in 1876, since which time he has been engaged in farming and stock-raising, and is quite an extensive wheat grower. His family consists of five child¬ ren; Flora J., Mary L., James W., Wm., H., and Lizzie E. Mr. and Mrs. D., and all their children, are members of the U. P. church.

Among the prominent and intelligent, of those whose occupation is farming, may be mentioned Mr. Engel. He was born in Frederick county, Md., in 1826. His father and mother were originally from Penn¬ sylvania, and emigrated to Maryland in a very early day. Wm. H. spent his youth in a country store, then went on to a farm. He received his primary education at a common school. He then went to Calvert college, attending several terms, after which he entered the Ohio University, at which place he pursued his studies one year, and then graduated at Dick¬ enson college, in June, 1851. He then began his career as a teacher of a select school, which he followed for a number of years. In 1854, he had the degree of B. A. conferred. In 1854-5, he served as reading clerk in the Maryland legislature, one year. In 1857, he came to Missouri, and soon after he purchased 250 acres of land, and erected a large flour mill, and followed milling until the outbreak of the war. He sold this, and in 1867, moved on to his present farm, and engaged in farming, which he has followed ever since. He has a neat and comfortable residence, with ninety-five acres of choice land, all in cultivation. In 1860, he married Miss Virginia Owings, (daughter of N. H. Owings,) a* most worthy and estimable lady. They have four children; Edward D., Ida V., Harry B. and Houdard. In politics, Mr. E. is a Democrat. Mr. and Mrs. E. are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian church.

James M. Fitch

who is the subject of the following sketch, was born in Lewis county, Kentucky, in the year 1840. He came to Warrensburg in the year 1865, and went to. work on the farm he now lives on. He was married on Noy. 16, 1857, to Miss Martha Ellen Davis, daughter of Mahala Davis, who was born in Tennessee, in 1805. Her parents settled neai Boon\ille. in Cooper county. She was married to Mr. Davis in the yeai 1820, and settled on the present farm, about the year 1839. She had nin§ childien, five of whom are now living, named as follows: Robert Milton Davis, John

B. Davis, Ann Eliza Davis, Mary Saffronia Davis, and Martha Ellen Davis. She remained with her family on the farm during the war. Her husband died in the year 1855. Mr. Jas. M. Fitch, her son-in-law, has managed the farm since he came here. During the past six or seven years, he has turned his attention to dealing in stock, and has become a well known shipper of hogs, mules, and cattle, in the St. Eouis markets. He has five children; Albert Crawford, Chas. H., Forrest, Earnest and Mahala Fitch. His farm contains 205 acres of well improved land.

farmer. Was born in Johnson county, Mo., February 24, 1861. His father, James Geery, was born in Howard county, Mo., about 1832, his father having been one of the pioneers of this state. He was married in 1848, to Miss S. M. Eaton, daughter of Elu Eaton. By this union they had one son, J. C. Geery. James Geery settled about twTo and a half miles south of Centerview, where he continued to reside until his death, which occurred in 1862. John C., who is the only surviving member of the family, spent his youth on a farm, and was educated in the common schools. He is one of the most enterprising young men of his neighbor¬ hood, and is well known, and highly respected. He owns 150 acres of choice land, well improved.

Daniel Giffin

was a native of Virginia, born in Ohio county, near Wheeling, February 3, 1839. He resided in his native county, until twenty-three years of age, and received his early education in the common schools. He also attended one session under Prof. A. F. Rooss, after t which he taught one term of school, and then went to Ohio, where he was married in 1865, to Miss Mary Waddell, a native of Marion county, Ohio. He came to Missouri in 1868, and settled on his present farm, containing eighty acres, well improved, with good substantial buildings, where he has resided ever since. Mr. G. and wife are both members of the U. P. church.

Samuel C. Graham

section 36, Centerview township. The subject of this sketch was born in Withe county, Southwest Virginia, on the 14th of December, 1814. He, with his father, Robert Graham, moved to Boone county, Missouri, in 1833. The family remained there during the winter, and in March, 1834, moved to what is now Hazel Hill township. Here, the father, Robert Graham, died in April 1856, having held the office of county judge for several years previous to his death. In 1840, the son, Samuel C., was married to Margaret G. Hobson, and moved to the present township of Centerview and entered 160 acres of land, adjoining to what is now the village of Centerview. Here he has resided since that time, and has raised a family of eight children, five of whom are still living. His wife, Margaret G. Graham, was born in Salina county, Kentucky, December 18, 1818. Her father was a native of Tennessee. Mr. Graham now ' owns about 400 acres of land, all under cultivation, except a few acres of wood land. The wheat, known as the Graham wheat, so extensively grown in all the region of the state, took its name from this family - a brother having first grown a very fine crop, and farmers came from all directions to obtain the wheat for seed. Hence the name Graham wheat.

R. B. Graham

section 10; born in Centerview township, in 1842. His father was J. G. Graham, mentioned elsewhere in connection with the sketch of John H. Graham. Mr. R. B. Graham has lived in the township of Centerview ever since he was born. He was married in 1866 to Miss Nancy J. King. They have had nine children, eight of whom are now living. Has 130 acres of land, all of which is under cultivation. Does a general farming business, mainly raising grain; wheat and corn being the principal products.

John H. Graham

section 35, Centerview P. O., son of J. G. Graham, was born at the old homestead in which he now lives, November 6, 1844. His father was born in Virginia in 1811, and moved to Centerview township in the year 1838, having the previous year been married to Miss Mary E. Hobson, who was a native of Lafayette county, Missouri. They have eleven children, all living, 'and all married but three. The father, J. G. Graham, died July 3d, 18T8, and the son, J. H. Graham, the subject of this sketch, is now living with his family and mother, upon the old homestead and section 5, Centerview township, was born in Fayette county, Pennsyl¬ vania, in 1823. His father was a native of Maryland. He has resided in Warren county, Iowa, for about twenty years. In the year 1865, he was elected a member of the house of representatives for Iowa, and served in that capacity one term; immediately thereafter, in 1866, was elected State senator, and served till 1870. He did not .seek political honois, in fact was nominated while away from home, and was elected by an overwhel¬ ming majority. He occupied the very important position of chairman of the committee on public buildings, and was largely influential in seeming the passage of the bill authorizing the construction of the present magnifi¬ cent capitol building, ai Des Moines, Iowa. No man stood highei as a wise legislator, or a more efficient worker for the large inteiest intrusted to his care. He was also mainly instrumental in obtaining the construc¬ tion of the branch of the Rock Island railroad, from Des Moines to Indianola. He was made president of the construction company, and car¬ ried the project through, although on account of the failure of other parties, connected with the enterprise, it resulted in quite a pecuniary loss to him¬ self. Mr. Griffith was also instrumental in securing the building of the college at Indianola, having through his efforts, and great sacrifice of time and expense, obtained subscriptions to the amount of $20,000 and over, thus securing the adoption and patronage of the Des Moines conference of the Methodist Episcopal church, thereby securing to the conference and the State of Iowa an institution, in which they may both justly take pride. Mr. Griffith moved to his present residence in Centerview, in the spring of 1874. He has three children, one being a widower with one child. He now owns 686 acres of land, and does a general farming busi¬ ness, and at the same time deals largely in stock. He raises a good many cattle and hogs, and also buys largely for the purpose of feeding and fat¬ tening for the market. He sends to market this year some 220 head of very fine fat cattle. He has a beautiful situation and fine facilities for his stock: and as the writer of this sketch was shown through the shaded and pleasant grove, where about fifty head of as fine and fat three-yearold steers and heifers as he ever looked upon were feeding, having before them a constant supply of corn and fresh cured hay, and at the same time ranging in fresh pastures and a plentiful supply of good water, verily we were constrained to believe that Mr. Griffith understood thoroughly the business in which he was engaged.

Andrew Gowans

deceased, was born in Ohio, Sept. 25, 1834, and resided in that state until his majority, and was educated in the common schools. He entered the Union army in 1862, in company H., 94th Ohio infantry. He entered as a private and was promoted at different times, until he became captain. He par¬ ticipated in several hotly contested battles. He was honorably discharged at the close of the war, and then went to Illinois, where he remained until 1867, when he came to Missouri, apd settled on the farm on which his widow now resides. The farm contains 120 acres, all in cultivation, except twentjT acres of timer. In 1869, Mr. G. erected a fine residence, and also has an excellent barn. He was married in 1872 to Miss Carrie A. Lorimer, a native of Ohio, and the daughter of Alexander Lorimer, Esq. Mr. G. at the time of his death, which occurred in 1881, was engaged in farming and stock-raising, and was a member of the U. P. church. Mrs. G. is also a member of the U. P. church. She has three daughters: Grace, Mary E. and Katie I.

R. C. Hull

merchant and express agent. Prominent among the business men of Centerview, we mention the name of Mr. Hull, who was born in the state of New Hampshire, at the foot of the White Mountains. When about 16 years of age went to southern Ohio, and remained until 1868, when he came to Missouri in the fall of the same year, locating in Centerview. In the following year he built his store house, which was the first of the kind in the town, which is now the principal store of the place. He does a large business, and his popularity may be inferred by his success. In 1861, he was married to Miss Margaret Clifton, of Ohio. The result of this union has been one son and one daughter. Birdie W. and Rodney C. Birdie, who is the telegraph operator at Centerview, is well quali¬ fied for the responsible position.

is a native of Missouri ; born in Lafayette county, in the year 1824:. His father was a native of Virginia, and his mother a native of Tennessee. They emigrated to Missouri in the year 1819, and settled near Lexington, Mo. The subject of this sketch was about six years old when he came to Johnson county, and has lived in what is now Centerview township .ever since. He was married in Johnson county, in the year 1854, to Miss Martha E. Ripley. Her parents were natives of Tennessee,, and moved to this county in the year 1848. They have three children living. David William Jackson, Nathaniel Burton Jackson, and Cora Ida May Jackson. He was in this county when it was all known as Lafayette county, and when the cite of Warrensburg was located. His fathei built the fiist mill in this part of tfie country, which ground the bread-stuff' for settlers coming from as great a distace as Clinton, Henry count} . He has lun the mill often days and nights to accommodate the customers. The mill burned down, and was rebuilt by him and his fathei. The mill was started about the year 1831, or 1832, and was run almost constantly to the year 1854. Mr. Jackson built his own house in the year 1856, on land that he had entered some time before. His farm consists of beauti¬ ful rolling prairie, and timber. During the war he lost almost all his per¬ sonal property, the accumulation of years, and removed his family to McLean county, Ill., for safety. He came to Clinton, Missouri, in the fall of 1865, and found employment, rebuilding the water mill at that place, known as the Jackson mill. After remaining there for some time, he returned to his farm, which, during the war, was neglected and run down, that it was almost like commencing life anew. Ten years of ener¬ getic industry of himself and thrifty wife and children, have made thenfarm a delightful home again, where they exoect to spend their declining years under the shadow of their own vine and fruitful orchard. He has served the citizens in the capacity of school director for six years. He is highly esteemed by all who know him in the neighborhood where he has lived for almost fifty years.

Geo. Haymaker

retired farmer. Among the worthy citizens who have contributed much to the development of his township, may be mentioned Mr. Haymaker. He has been prominently identified with the Presbyterian church for many years. He is a native of Pennsylvania, born in Westmoreland county, July 20, 1828. He received a limited education at the common schools. In Oct. 1857, he married Miss Matilda McConnel. In 1863, Mr. H. entered the Union army, joining company D, loth Pennsylvania cavalry, and participated in the celebrated raid under Gen. Stoneman, marching through North Carolina, over the Blue Ridge to Lynchburg, to Salisbury, through the state of Georgia, Huntsville and Nashville, Tennessee, and was mustered out at the close of the war. In the fall of 1867, he moved his family to Missouri, and settled about four miles from Centerview, where he engaged in farming, and remained for several years, then moved into the town of Centerview. He still owns a farm of 260 acres of choice land. In 1872, Mrs. Haymaker died, leaving three sons: Edward M., Oliver R. and Milo M. Edward, who is a graduate of Eastor College, is now attending the Theological school at Princeton, N. J. In 1872, Mr. Haymaker was married to Miss Sarah A. McGinnis, of Pittsburg. She is a worthy member of the same church as that of her husband. Mr. H. owns a good substantial residence in Centerview, and some town lots.

Mathias Houx

one among the oldest and most enterprising citizens of this township, was born in Logan county, Kentuckv, in the year 1816. Moved with his father, Jacob Houx, to Cooper county, Missouri. He started out while a young man, with nothing but his hands and a vigorous determination to carve out his own fortune. How well he has succeeded the sequel of this sketch will show. Being full of ready wit and a strong constitution, he was prepared for any kind of business that might present itself to advance his interests, and having the advantage of an early training in frontier life, was familiar with the use of the rifle, the ax and the hunting knife. This kind of capital was more valuable in those early times than money, and his skilllul hands and steadv nerve furnished him with a home and food where money could not buy it. He commenced opening and improving his farm in 1S36, entered the first forty acres in that year, and by additions gradually increased it to its present size. In a field a little west of the house lies a relic of by-gone days, and an evidence of his mechanical skill, the remaining wheel of a wagon, which was hewn out and made entirely by himself and brother the second year they were on the place. He was married in 1853 to Miss Lissey Bradley, who was born in. Virginia, the daughter of a planter of that state, who moved to Missouri in 1831, and settled in Lafayette county. The names of their children are: Susan, Mary, Achilles, Eva, Maggie and Katie. The mother of Mrs. Houx is still living. His home is situated on section 23. His entire farm consists of 740 acres of beautiful rolling prairie and tim¬ ber. A fine grove of timber just north of his house has grown to its present size during his lifetime, there being no timber there when he first came to the place. Another article of old times is seen in a buckskin coat, which was made from deer shot in this neighborhood. He suffered very severe losses during the war in stock, consisting of cattle, mules, horses, hogs, etc., but since then has greatly increased his property, hav¬ ing at present 340 head of sheep, a large number of cattle, mules and horses. He sold last year over eighty head of cattle. As a stock raiser and farmer he has been very successful.

the enterprising proprietor of the Centerview mills, was born in Ohio, August 22, 1849. Being induced by the growing prospects and glowing descriptions of the west, he left home when he was only seventeen years old. He settled in Johnson county in the year 1867, and during the first three years of his life here followed the business of farming. He was afterward employed as salesman in the store of Hull & Co., which place he filled for eight years. He was married to Miss Helen Graham on May 8, 1873, daughter of I. H. Graham, one among the oldest settlers of this part of the county. He has four children, whose names are as fol¬ lows: Calvin, Lawson, Carrie and Virginia. Coming here after the close of the war, he was among the number of energetic young men nec¬ essary to infuse new life into a community prostrated by the inevitable consequences of war, and pushing forward has kept pace with the growth and progress of the county ever since. He owns one of the best mills in the county, keeping up with the times in all new and valuable improvements, thus improving the quality of the flour, of which he makes three straight grades to meet the demands of his steadily inci easing was born October 4, 1825, in Davie county, North Carolina. His father, James Kinyoun. was born February 4, 1804, in North Carolina, where he died in 1857. His paternal grandfather was born in England, near London, in 1756, and came to America in 1777, landing at Norfolk, Virginia, and enlisted under Gen. George Washington, and was after¬ ward promoted to assistant quartermaster. After the close of the war he settled in North Carolina, where he resided until his death. John H. spent his youth on his father's farm, and attended school during the win¬ ter seasons. At the age of twenty he went to the Jonesville academy, where he remained five months, and then went to the Mocksville acad¬ emy, where he remained two years, and was prepared to enter college. He then went to Wake Forst college, North Carolina, where he remained but one year, not liking the course of instruction, after which he went to Columbian college, located at Washington, D. C., where he remained one year. He then went to Union college, the State University of New York, where he graduated with the honors of the college, and then returned to North Carolina, where he taught school for four years. While teaching school he studied law in the school of Chief Justice Pearson, and was admitted to the bar, but not liking the profession, he abandoned it and commenced the study of medicine in the office of Dr. Valentine Mott, professor of surgery in the university of the city'of New York, graduat¬ ing in 1859 with the honors of the university. He then returned home and commenced the practice of medicine. In 1861 he entered the south¬ ern army, was elected captain, and passed through thirteen regular bat¬ tles, and was afterward appointed surgeon, and served until the close of the war, proving himself to be a fine surgeon, as well as practitioner, by his manj' successful operations. x\t the close of the war he returned to North Carolina, and went to farming and practicing, and afterward went to Texas, but returned the next year to North Carolina, where he met Mr. Ridings, of Warrensburg, who persuaded him to come to Missouri, and in 1868 he left North Carolina, and arrived at Warrensburg on the 6th of May, having borrowed the money from Mr. Ridings to pay freight and traveling expenses, and had only ten dollars left when he arrived. He located on Post Oak, three miles south of Centerview. Here he went to farming and making rails, and during the fall and winter he made 12,000 rails for his neighbors, and enough stakes to make three-quarters of a mile of post fence. He would take his pony with him to the timber, and when sent for he would make the visit, prescribe, and then return to his work; but the second year his practice required all his time. He was married December 18, 1856, to Miss Bettie A. Conrad, daughter of Joseph Con¬ rad, of North Carolina. She died in 1872, leaving two sons and three daughters: Joseph J., Lula A., Flora R., Stella K. and John C. The last named died when a baby. Mr. K. lived a widower for five years, and then married a widow, Mrs. Martha A. Hammond. He now owns a fine and comfortable home, and enjoys great prosperity.

William C. King

P. O. Holden. Was born in Johnson county, Missouri, May 14, 1842. He was educated in the common schools and lived with his parents until 1862, when he entered the Union army in company C., 40th Missouri enrolled militia, and served two years. In 1864 he returned home and went to farming. He then crossed the Plains, but returned in the following year, and went to Texas, and returned with 1640 head of Texas cattle. He was married in December, 1874, to Miss Annie E. Taggart,, a native of Missouri. By this union they have four children: Agnes, Jennie, William A., and Ora Minta. Mrs. King is a member of the M. E. church, south. Mr. King has served as district clerk and school direc¬ tor for eight or nine years. His farm contains 145 acres, all in cultivation, except 25 acres of timber, with a new residence and good out buildings. Mr. King's father and mother were both natives of Tennessee, and came to Missouri in 1841. His father was born in 1813 and is still living, but his mother died when he was about 6 years of age.

Amos Markey

the subject of this sketch, for twenty six-years has been identified with the growth of Johnson county. He was born in Frederick 'county, Mary¬ land, in the year 1832, and moved with his parents to Preble county, Ohio, in the year 1839. His parents were natives of Pennsylvania. Ae was married in the state of Indiana, September 24, 1867, to Miss Nancy Frits. The children by this marriage are Edward Markey, born July 14, 1869, and Ellie Markey, born September 10, 1872. He came alone to Johnson county, stopping at Warrensburg on the 1st of April, 1855. He bought and improved a farm of 480 acres, which he afterward sold to Judge McClain. He commenced to improve his present farm in the year 1868 ; it contains 419 acres of beautiful rolling prairie land. During the past few years, he has turned his attention to improved grades of sheep, and has at present a fine flock of high grade Cots wolds. Taking a zealous interest in the moral and religious welfare of the community, he gave freely of his time and money to build up the church of his choice and became one of the first trustees of the German Baptist, or Dunkard church, which has a large membership in this township. In all his farm¬ ing enterprises he has been very successful, and is now enjoying the fruits of his labors in one of the pleasantest homes in the township.

. pastor of the Cumberland Presbyterian church ot Centerview, was born in Simpson county, Kentucky, near Franklin, November 16, 1846. His father, S. A. McElvain, is also a native of Kentucky, and emigrated to Missouri in 1857, and settled on a farm near Hazel Hill, where he is still living. His mother, who is a native of the same state, is living in the full enjoyment of all her faculties. She raised a family of thirteen children, ten of whom are now living. S. H., who is the subject, received his pri¬ mary education at the common schools. He then entered McGee's College, where he pursued his studies and graduated in June, 1874. After which he engaged in teaching school in the town of Centerview, and in the fall of the same year was ordained and took charge of his present congregation. The church owes much of its prosperity to efforts put forth by its worthy pastor. In 1880 he was united in marriage to Miss Maggie Auld, daughter of A. T. Auld, Esq. She is a native of Henry county, Iowa, and was born near Mt. Pleasant. Mr. McElvainisa fine speaker, a clear reasoner, widely known and much respected.

Moses G. Mullins

Sec. 2., Centerview P. O., was born in Clark county, Kentucky, in the year 1820. His father, Anthony Mullins, moved to Clark county, Ken- ' tucky, at an early day. From thence, in 1826, he moved to Howard county, this state, near where Rochefort now is. v He lived there about seven years, teaching school and farming until the spring of 1834, when he moved to Pettis county and located at a point twelve miles west of where Sedalia now is. At this place he died September 3, 1835. The subject of this sketch, Moses G. Mullins, was but fifteen years old, and the oldest of seven children, when his father died, and the care of the widowed mother and family devolved mainly upon him. He lived at this place and cared for his mother until he was twenty-six years of age, when he was married to Kesiah McFarland, a native of Missouri, and they moved to this county in 1847, and to his present residence in the spring of 1850. They had seven children, five daughters and two sons. One daughter died in infancy and one at about thirty years of age. Mr. Mullins lost his first wife April 6, 1876, and is now living with his second. He has been an influential member of the M. E. church since 1841, and has assisted in the organization of two churches. He has 173 acres of land, 100 acres improved and balance wood-land. His mother remained a widow and is still living, a'ged 77 years.

J. P. Ozias

the subject of this sketch is one of the most prominent and intelligent, as well as enterprising citizens of his township. He has erected a dwelling that is a credit to himself and neighborhood. It is situated upon a very beautiful and sightly spot, commanding a fine view of Warrensburg and surrounding country. He has a beautiful reservoir a few feet from his house, with living water from a never failing spring, elevated by means of wind pump, securing pure and fresh running water. The reservoir is nicely cemented, in which abound the german carp in great numbers. His model farm contains 225 acres of choice land in a very high state of cultivation, with a splendid barn and numerous out-houses. His orchard is a choice one. Mr. Ozias is a native of Ohio, and was born in Preble county, September 6, 1838. He was educated in the common schools, andlived with his parents until 1861, when he married Miss S. Pretzingea, a native of Ohio, and who died in 1874, leaving three children : Charley O., Newel J. and Oscar E. Mr. O. came to Missouri in 1868, and settled on his present farm. As a farmer, stock raiser and feeder he has been a success. He married his present wife, who was Miss Sarah Conrad, in 1875. She is a native of Ohio. Mr. O.'s parents were originally from North Carolina, and were of French extraction. Mr. O. and his wife are prominent members of the Presbyterian church.

Albert Owings

farmer, P. O. Centerview, born in Frederick county, Maryland, July 23, 1845. He came to Missouri with his parents in 1856. His father, H. N. Owings, was also a native of Maryland, and born June 8, 1799. He died in 1867, having been one of the leading Masons of Maryland. Albert's paternal great-grandfather came from Scotland, and his maternal grand¬ father came from Germany. The subject of this sketch was reared in this county, attending school here and at Prof. Kemper's school at Boonville. He clerked a short time in a store, then engaged in farming. He married April 5, 1866, Miss Narcissa Fitterling, daughter of Jacob Fitterling, a native of Maryland. She is a lady of estimable qualities. They have one son living: Charles A. Earnest died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Owings are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian church. Mr. Owings is also a large and successful stock raiser. He has a fine residence and two large farms.

Nathan W. Perry

Prominent among the worthy and substantial farmers of Johnson county is the subject of this brief notice. His well stocked and cultivated farm is about three miles north of Centerview, in one of the most highly produc¬ tive regions in the state. Col. N. W. Perry, as he is usually called, was born in the sunny South, state of Tennessee, in the year 1830. In the year 1842 he went to Georgia, and at the age of eighteen he walked all the way to Clermont county, Ohio, for the purpose of attending school. After spending one year at school he went to St. Louis, and thence to Lexing¬ ton, Missouri. When he came to this state he had but seventy-five cents in his pocket; this was his capital stock. He was first married to Miss Lizzie Houx, who lived but a short time thereafter. Two years after the death of his first wife he married Miss Bettie Rice, daughter of Pleasant

Rice, the first permanent settler of this county. They have one daughter, Lizzie, who is at home with her parents. Col Perry has been one of the most successful school teachers in the county. He clerked in the United States Land Office about four years. He purchased his present farm of about 640 acres in the year 1858. He raises large numbers of cattle, sheep, horses, mules and hogs. During the war much of his personal property was lost. His front lawn is adorned with beautiful maples, which he planted twenty years ago. Mr. Perry is a staunch Democrat, which party he has rendered lasting service. He is independent and fearless in his strict adherance to those principles which he believes to be right, and for the good of humanity. He has long been a resident of this county, and stands high in the estimation of all who know him.

Wiley H. Phillips

P. O. Holden, farmer, was born in Illinois in 1836. He spent his youth on a farm, and came to Missouri in 18T0, locating near Holden. He has been on his present farm about five years, and is one of the most successful wheat growers in his neighborhood. He was married in Kentucky, Sep¬ tember 28, 1873, to Miss Lydia Bise, daughter of Henry L. Bise. By this union they have four children: Mary E., Mattie B., Wiley H. and Nellie P. Mr. P. now owns 560 acres of land, all in cultivation and well improved.

John Pinkerton

section three, Centerview township, was born in Preble county, Ohio, in 1830. Moved from thence to Rush county when a boy. In 1849 moved to Peoria county, Illinois, and lived in Peoria and Henderson counties, Illi¬ nois, till 1871, and then moved to Clay county, Illinois, and in 1874 moved to his present residence in Centerview township. He was married about 1852 to Miss Sarah J. Leslie. They have had ten children, eight of whom are now living. Mr. Pinkerton has 367 acres of land, all under cultivation, except seventeen acres of wood-land. His residence is six miles from Hol¬ den, and about three miles from Centerview, and is pleasantly situated, commanding an extensive view of the surrounding country. From his house can be seen the four villages; Holden, Warrensburg, Centerview and Kingsville.

Rev. James S. Poage

pastor of the Presbyterian church of Centerview. Was born in Brown county, Ohio. July 13, 1821. He continued to reside in Brown county until attaining his majority. He spent his youth on a farm. Entered Ripley college, and took a regular college course, graduating in 1841, after which he entered the Lane Theological Seminary, and pursued his studies until his health failed him, when he went south. On his return he studied med¬ icine, and took a course of lectures. Finding that his health was very much improved, he finished his theological course, when he was ordained at Felicity, Ohio, and preached in that place seven years. From this place he went to West Alexander. In 1857 he went to Mercer county, Illinois, where he spent some eighteen years, and in 1875 came to Missouri, and took charge of his present congregation at Centerview, which, under his direction, has prospered ; having to-day a new church and out of debt.

E. B. Repp

Among the practical farmers of this township, none are more worthy than the subject of this notice. He is a native of Maryland, and was born on March 12, 1820. He spent his youth on a farm. Received a limited education at the common schools. His father and mother were both natives of Maryland. He came to Missouri in 1866, purchased 160 acres of land and went in debt for part of it. In 1845 he was married to Miss Susan Wolf, daughter of H. Wolf, Esq. Mr. Repp has had wonderful success as a wheat raiser. His theory of growing wheat is based on actual practice. He has contributed much knowledge in this particular direc¬ tion. He now owns two large farms in a very high state of cultivation, withgood substantial buildings, which he has made by growing wheat. Mr. R. is a prominent member of the German Baptist church. He is quite suc¬ cessful as a cattle feeder, shipping his stock by the car load. He raised a family of seven children.

Rev. J. A. Sherrard

minister of the U. P. church, was born in Ohio, on August 21, 1853. He received his primary education in the common schools, after which he went to the Cambridge Union school; leaving this, he taught for one year and then entered college, and graduated in 1876, after which he attended a theological seminary in Ohio, then went to the U. P. theological seminary at Alleghany City, Pennsylvania, and gradu¬ ated there in 1879, and came to Missouri in the following summer, locating in Centerview, where he became pastor of the U. P. church in the fall of 1880, which position he still holds. The church has been very prosperous under his direction. He was licensed in Bloomfield, Ohio, and preached his first sermon in Centerview. He was married in 1874 to Miss Alice A. Wallace, daughter of David Wallace, Esq. By this union they have three daughters: Clara B., May L. and Alice Maud, all born in Ohio. Mr. Sherrard's mother was a native of West Virginia, and is now in her seventy-third year. His father died in the fall of 1876, at the age of eighty-five.

Peter Shainholtze

was born in Chester county, Pennsylvania, in the year 1815. Although Mr. Shainholtze is well advanced in years, he still retains a great deal of vigor of mind and body. His father died while he was yet a child. He moved with his mother and family to Muskingum county, Ohio. He lived in Ohio forty-two years, following his occupa¬ tion of farmer and dealer in real estate. He traveled over this county, prospecting, in 1866, and bought the most of the farm he now owns in that year. Moved his family in the year 1868. He was married in the year 1850, in Ohio, to Mrs. Frances J. Connor. They have three living children, whose names are: John, Joseph L. and Surran Emily. He owns in this township 600 acres of fine land, about 300 of which is in a high state of cultivation. During his long life he has constantly recog¬ nized his duty towards the rising generation, and has been active and liberal in support of the church of his choice, and other benevolent and progressive enterprises that tended to advance the moral and material interests of the neighborhood. He contributed liberally to build the O. S. Presbyterian church at Centerview and Warrensburg.

Robert Spillman

who is the subject of this sketch, was born in Medina county, Ohio, in the year 1818. When he was a young man he moved to the state of Indiana, in the year 1837, and while there was married to Miss Abigail Stoops, in the year 1810. They have had four children, ^three of whom are now living: G. W., E. T. and J. D. He moved back to Ohio and remained there a number of years, and then moved back to the state of Indiana, in the year 1847, where most of his children were born. After farming a number of years in that state, he came to look at the lands of Johnson county, in the year 1865; and after satisfying himself that the lands in this county were desirable, he bought some land in April of that year, but did not move his family until the month of August following, and has lived in Centerview township ever since. He has been school director of the township for ten years, and during his residence in the township has never known an entire failure of crops. In later years he has turned his attention more to raising stock. Being of decided literary taste and culture, he has gathered a fine miscellaneous library, which he intended for the instruction and thorough education of his children.

Abraham Stoner

deceased. Few men have passed away, whose memory is more cherished than the subject of this notice. He was a native of Maryland, and was born in the year 1827. He spent his youth on a farm. He was educated at Baker College, Maryland, and as a mathematician, had few equals. After leaving college he taught school for several years. In 1853 he married Miss Susan Roger, daughter of Jesse Roger. She was born and raised in Carroll county, Md. Mr. Stoner, continued to reside in Mary¬ land, until 1867, when he came to Missouri, and settled on the farm on which his family is now living; his landed estate numbering 550 acres. He erected a fine substantial brick residence, and died soon after, in 1875. He was a prominent member of the Brethren church at his death. His family consists of six children: Daniel P., Laroy, Susan L., Robert R., Jennie A. and Mary C. Mrs. Stoner is a lady of fine executive ability, taking charge of her beautiful home and fine farm. She is a member of the same church as that of her husband.

minister of the Presbyterian church. Was born in Washington county, Pa , August 24, 1820. He graduated at Jefferson college, in 1845. He then entered the Theological Seminary of Alleghany City, attending two sessions, when he left school on account of ill health. In 1856, he was licensed, and was ordained, January 14, 1858. He continued to preach in his native state until 1867, when he came to Missouri. In 1873, he returned to Pennsylvania, where he remained until the spring of 1878, when he again came to Missouri, where he has resided ever since. He was mar¬ ried in Pennsylvania, October 14, 1847, to Miss Elizabeth G. George, daughter of Jacob George, and a fine estimable lady. By this union they have had three children: Jacob G., John A. and Ella M. Mr. T. owns a fine farm, well improved, with a fine residence and good barn. He has a fine young orchard and vineyard.

Thomas E. Torbot

was born in Virginia, February 15, 1830. He came to Missouri with his parents in 1848. He first engaged in the mercantile business, as clerk at Boonville, Alasco, and other points, and afterwards at Waverly, Mo. He came to Johnson county, in 1859, and commenced dealing in stock, and followed this until 1872. Mr. T. is a brother of Dr. John S. Torbot, the celebrated physician, who now lives in Cass county, Mo. In 1862, Mr. T. was appointed justice of the peace, and served two years, after which he resigned, having moved out of the township. Mr. Torbot s father, Samuel Torbot, was a native of Virginia, and died in Missouri, in 1850. His mother was also a native of Virginia, and died in 1880.

who is the subject of this sketch, was born near Charlestown, West Vir¬ ginia, Dec. 9, 1830. He removed with a colony of friends and relatives, to Johnson county Mo., in March 1856. From here he went to Califor¬ nia, in June, 1857. He was cashier of customs, under his brother, B. F. Washington, who was at that time U. S. collector of customs, for the port of San Francisco. He also edited the daily, and weekly National, during the year 1858, and in 1859, in conjunction with Geo. P. Johnson, he obtained a license to practice law in the supreme court of California. Resigning his position of cashier of customs, he returned to Missouri dur¬ ing the. summer of 1861, and entered the Confederate service. He was wounded and captured, during one of Price's raids, near Fort Scott* Oct. 25, 1864, and was sent to Johnson Island, and remained there until the fall of Richmond. He was then tranferred to Cairo, from thence to New Orleans, and finally exchanged at the mouth of the Red River, May 4, 1865. He returned to St. Lonis, in the summer of 1865, and to John¬ son county, in the spring of 1866. He was married at Otterville, Cooper county, Mo., on the 11th of April, 1871, to Mary Virginia Dempsey, of Otterville, Mo. The children by this marriage are: Robert Washington* born, March 17, 1872, died in infancy; Vernon De Hertburn Washington* born, July 27, 1876, and Mary Virginia Washington, born, June 14, 1873. He has held the office of county judge, from 1872 to 1878, and at present holds the office of justice of the peace, and postmaster at this place. The fortunate possessor of this illustrious name has a very interesting genealogy, which fully identifies him as a collateral kinsman of the Washing¬ ton family. The genealogical tree and branches are as follows: Hon. Geo. Washington ofCenterview, who is a son of John Thornton Augustine Washington, (ensign during the war,) who was the son of Samuel Wash¬ ington, the oldest full brother of Gen. Geo. Washington of hallowed memorv.

John J. Wharton

druggist and pharmacist; was born in Stevensburg, Va., Aug. 4, 1840. He spent his youth in his native state. He graduated at the Ohio school of pharmacy, about the year 1856, after which he came to Missouri, and located about three miles south of Centerview. In 1858, he was appointed deputy clerk, which position he held until 1861, when he joined the con¬ federate army, and participated in many hotly contested battles. After the war he went to Cooper county, where he remained until 1881, when he came to Centerview and opened a fine drug store, which he still con¬ ducts in an excellent manner, his store being filled with a complete stock of medicines. Mr. W.'s mother is a native of Virginia, and is still living in Cass county.

T. Jep. Whitsett

Sec. 36, P. O. Centerview ; was born at Mount Hebron, Lafayette county, Missouri, Oct. 22, 1832. His father, Rev. John R. Whitsett, was a Cum- berland Presbyterian preacher, was bom in Kentucky, May 3, 1803, and moved to Old Franklin, Howard county, Mo., in 1818. He was one of the pioneer preachers, and did valiant service as one of the first settlers of the country. Not alone did he carry the glad news of salvation to those who had cabins away out on the borders of civilization, but helped the pioneer to drive back the bands of hostile Indians, who persistently opposed the progress of the white man, and he often in his travels as a preacher also had to confront the wild beasts of the forest, that some times slinked along the wild and lonely paths he was obliged to travel, and disputed with him the passages in the wilderness. About the year 1824, he moved to what was then Lafayette county, which embraced also the present Johnson county, and located near where Columbus now is. In 1842, he moved to Centerview, and then died, Aug. 11, 1879, being 76 years old at his death. His son, T. J. Whitsett, with whose name this sketch commences, has lived in Centerview most of the time for the last 39 years. He is a farmer and stock dealer, and owns about 560 acres of land. He has been quite an extensive traveler in this and some in other lands.

Gilbert P. Whitsett

stock dealer. Among the enterprising citizens of Centerview, may be mentioned Mr. G. P. Whitsett, who was born in Johnson county, January, 1845. He is the second son of John R. Whitsett, a native of Kentucky. In 1874, Gilbert P. was married to Miss Gt*)rgia Mitchell, of Centerview, a native of Kentucky, and daughter of T. H. Mitchell, Esq. He then engaged in the grain and live stock business, and followed this until 1881, when he opened a livery stable, and is at present engaged in the livery business. He has three children living: Jeddie P., Mary M. and Birdie H. Mr. Whitsett's mother was a native of Tennessee, and was a daugh¬ ter of James Cull.

farmer, was born in Lawrence county, April 4, 1845. He received his early education in his native county. He served in the Union army, and located in Jasper county, Iowa, at the close of the war, where he remained about three years, and then came to Missouri in January, 1868, locating on his present farm, where he has resided ever since. His farm contains 480 acres, the greater part in cultivation, with a good, substantial bank barn. He has here been engaged in farming and raising stock. He was married in 1871 to Miss Alice A. Huggins, daughter of widow Huggins, a native of Ohio. IMr. W. is a prominent member of the U. P. chuich, and has been one of its elders since 1877. He is at present the superin¬ tendent of the Sunday school. He has two children, Emma B. and How¬ ard N. Mrs. W.'s mother is still living.

Source changes here: from History of Johnson County, Missouri, by Cockrell, Ewing, published 1918; 47 words in this source stream.

Centerview Township

Centerview town is a thriving and progressive village on the Missouri Pacific railroad between Warernsburg and Holden. It was founded in 1865. when the Pacific railroad was built. The postoffice here was established with the laying out of the town and Elhanan Roop was the first postmaster.