Jefferson Township (part 1 of 4)

Jefferson Township

is one of tlie leading townships in the county, and is bordered on the north by Locust Creek township, south b}^ Chariton county and west by Locust Creek whose cliannel separates it from Parson Creek township. Clay township borders on its northwest corner for one mile separated by Locust Creek. Its western border is irregular in form as it follows the channel of the creek. It is nine miles north and south with an average width, within a fraction, of six miles, and has an area of 34,240 acres of land, rich in fertility of soil with a growth of excellent timber along its water-courses. The timber follows the banks of the creeks which run north and south through its borders. Besides Locust Creek on its western border Jefferson township has Turkey Creek and Little Turkey on the west side, with Elk Creek and a branch from that stream called Spring Branch on the east side. Turkey and Elk Creek run through the township from north to south giving plenty of water as well as timber, making a superb stock range. With its rich soil, luxuriant grasses and water 8upj)ly, Jefferson township lacks nothing as a magnificent stock raising country.

Topography

The northern part of this township is a high, rolling prairie, whose undulating surface gives it a fine drainage. Its timber is found along the banks of the streams and it is mostly white and burr oak, hickory, scrub oak, elm, etc. The southern section of the township is looked upon as rather better land, the soil being deeper than on the north side. Its timber is about the same in quantity. Tobacco yields well in the southern part, but corn, oats, and in fact all kinds of grain and vegetables well repay the husbandman's labor. The soil of the prairies is from eighteen inches to three i'eet in depth, and in some places hard-pan is found, but in the bottom-lands along the streams, the soil is literally without bottom, having for ages been formed of vegetable matter, rich in all that goes to make it fertile and inexhaustible. Limestone is not found but plenty of sandstone quarries of excellent building stone can be seen cropping out along the banks of Lo- cnst Creek, and there is a bountiful supply of coal which underlies nearly the entire southern portion of the township. There is a twenty-six-inch vein of coal now being worked three miles south of Laclede, only forty feet below the surface, and another shaft is being sunk one and one-half miles from the above named city, in which they expect to strike a much thicker vein at the depth of sixty feet. There is plenty of coal for the use of generations to come within the limits of this township. The question of cheap fuel is not one which will rise to trouble the people of Linn county let alone the citizens of Jeflerson township, and will prove a valuable adjunct to her future wealth and prosperity. Besides the immense coal fields of Jefferson township, fine brick and potter's clay is found, and as the county advances in wealth, brick will verv soon usurp the place of wood, and this cla}' is of a quantity that would build every residence in the county of brick.

Mound

There is rather a cariosity to be seen by those who have not yet visited it, in a mound situated near Murray's Mills. This mound is not exactly a granite, but it is mostly composed of a very superior stone tliat hardens on exposure to the air, and is in every way a superior building stone. To-day that mound is simply a mass of rock, but it will not be many years before it will prove far more valuable than many times the ground it occupies, a veritable mine of wealth to its owner.

Old Settlers

Jefferson township was early settled. Jacob Grindstaff settled in the southern part in 1835, and Drury Grindstaff came about the same time as his brother. Both were great hunters, but Jacob was known as such far and wide. They came from Boone county, but were former!}^ from Kentucky. Drury raised his cabin and staked his claim on section twenty-one, township fifty-seven, of range twentj^ and Jacob on section thirtj'-two of the same township and range. They did not roam the solitude of the wildei-ness long alone, but other pioneers came in to share their troubles and trials, and put their shoulders to the car of progress which has since made Jeft'ersoii township a hjme for an energetic people, and changed her wild woods and undulating prairies into well-cultivated farms and vuliiable stock ranges. George W. Ben way now owns the lands that one of the Grindstaffs settled on, and therefore has the oldest settled place in the township.

Thomas "Watson and his wife, Sarah Jane, were others of those early pioneers who made Jefferson township their home, and he was one of the most energetic men of that day and generation. Grass was not allowed to grow under his feet, or anywhere else, if he needed the land for other purposes. Mr. Watson settled on section eighteen, of township fifty-seven.

range twenty. Kobert Y. Watson came in the liill of the previous year. He was the son of Thomas, and erected his cabin on section thirteen, of township fifty-seven, of ranije twenty-one. This was an adjoining section to the one settled on by his father, the range line running between the two sections. Previous to this, in 1832, 1833, and 1834, Mr. Watson, who came from Chariton county, had often made trips to that part of Jefferson township, having a sort of cabin on Locust Creek but a short distance fnmi where he settled. He would drive his stock up to feed on the rich prairie grasses that grew so luxuriantly in all that part of the county. He finally settled, as above described, on section eighteen, and his cabin for a number of years was the only "- tavern " in that section of country. It didn't have but one room, however, and, though large, it was often filled to overflowing, and a bed-quilt the only ])artition between the privacy of the famil}' and the strangers who came within their gates; and when families came, which was often the case, then the female portion and the children took one side of the house and the men the other. The flooi* was made up for a bed when the rush was great. In those early days the prairies and the woodlands were pretty well filled by snakes, as well as other game. There was the harmless garter or striped snake, the black snake, and here and there would be found the common rattlesnake. These snakes were generally friendly as regards their being willing to take possession of any part of the cabins of the settlers that suited their fancy, and that was generally the beds, and as this partiality of his snakeship was well known to the settlers they generally examined their beds before retiring, driving them ofl:' and it possible killing the intruders. They did not care for the striped snake, or even the black, but they were not partial to the rattlesnake as a sleeping companion. The other snakes, on being disturbed, would, if possible, glide rapidly away, while the rattlesnake was as likely to fight as to run, and the Worst was, he made no allowance for accidents. If he^got in the bed, and you rolled over on him, by accident or restlessness, he didn't try to squirm out like the more innocent kind, but would at once sound his rattle and bite, and even if you located his whereabout when thus suddenly awakened it required an immense amount of agility to get away from the fatal bite.

A Snake Story

Now the boys of those days were probably as full of mischief, or, as was at that time expressed, as full of the "Old Nick," as the boys of the ]>resent, or of those that came before them, and Mr. Watson's sons were no exception. Now, snake stories had been told to a traveler one night, and the usual snake hutit had been gone through in the bed the stranger was to sleep on, and, us he had expressed himself as being decidedly opposed to snakes in any shape, in fact both hated and feared them, it had suggested to the boys that he was a splendid subject for a practical joke and a chance to work off some of the deviltry of which they seemed to be full and running ov'er. As they had killed a big rattlesnake some time before, skinned and stuffed it, they concluded that if it should accidentally be found curled up at the foot of the stranger's bed, in the attitude to strike, it couldn't possibly hurt the stranger or endanger his life. Acting upon this idea, the stuffed skin was placed accordingly, and those innocent youths retired to dream sweet dreams of happiness with a hope of some fun. Mr. Thomas Watson and his wife were not ignorant of their boys' mischievous dispositions, but they were entirely innocent of their boys' arrangement for fun, although they thought it somewliat strange that they were up in the morning a little ahead df time and seemed to be waiting or expecting something. And it came, that something, like a tornado. Mr, "Watson had just fixed the fire, and Mrs. Watson was turning over the pork in the stew-pan, when their ears were greeted by a yell that seemed to raise the roof-pole and that stranger came bounding from his corner, white as a sheet, and could hardly articulate to the astonished couple that a great big snake was on his bed and just ready to bite when he sprang from the bed. The old man reached for his club and went for that snake and the stranger's clothes which he had not stopped to gather up in his flight. lie brought the latter and informed the stranger that the snake had left; but the old man wore a sober face, and one of the boys, watching through the crack of the cabin, said that "dad " would wallop them, sure, when the stranger left, and so kept out of the way until the old man had time to cool off. The stranger told the old man that the country did not suit him, and Mr. Watson would have explained the joke, but the stranger was so badly scared he was afraid trouble would follow if he knew he was only the victim of a practical joke. The boys did not get the promised "dressing down," for mother interceded, but it was pretty well nnderstood that if the joke was practiced again mother would stand aside, and the boys well knew that when the old man punished them the "down strokes" were uncommonly heavy. It was a long time before Mr. Watson and his amiable wife could prevent a broad smile from mantling their faces when thinking of the stranger's horror and his struggle to get away from that snake, and it is more than probable that the stranger remembered it and told of the terrible situation he was once in while traveling through the wilds of Missouri.

Such were some of the scenes that whiled away the time of the early settlers. Mr. Watson kept the first ferry, (across Locust Creek,) in Linn county, as well as the first tavern.

Jacob and ISTancy Sinsintaffer were early arrivals, settling on section nine, township fifty-seven, range twenty, in the year 1837. They came from Yirginia.

Mathias Loekridge came from Pocahontas, West Virginia, to Kandolph county, and from that county to Linn, and settled on the northwest quarter of section tweiitj-one, township fifty-seven, ran^^e twenty; also E. G. Chough and others. They soon had the prairies producing something besides grasses and wild flowers.

The first marriage in the township was E. G. Cliongh and Miss liebecca Sinsintaffer. They were married at the honse of the parents of the bride, Jacob Sinsintaffer, and the ceremony was performed by Judge John Botts.

The first birth was that of Washington Grindstaff, son of Drury and Nancy Grindstaff, in 1838, and the first female child Miss Cecelia Grindstaff, daughter of the same, born in 1840. These are the earliest known.

The first deaths were those of Mrs. Peggy Worlow and Mrs. Porterfield, both dying in the year 1842, and were buried on section -eighteen, township fifty-seven, range twenty-one.

The first physician seems to have been Dr. N. W. Harris. The Doctor came from Cooper county to Linn, but was originally from Kentucky, He was very much of a gentleman in his manners, and proved himself a capable physician.

There was some excitement over the Mormon War in Daviess and Carroll counties, and a few volunteers left Jefferson township for the scene of strife. AVharton R. Barton was one of these and was at the surrender of " Far West," (the most important town of the Mormon settlement in all that region,)and the taking of Joe Smith, Rigdon, Pratt, and others, as prisoners.

Coon skins were a legal tender as late as 1844, and this legal tender quality extended to honey and beeswax, and even the sheriff accepted these articles in payment of taxes. Of course he had to be a judge of the article, and its value, or get " left."

Many more settlers came in during the next few years, and Jefferson township improved about as fast as her sister townships. Many of these settlers' names will be found in the old settlers' chapter in the general history. Farms were improved, and the ever-to-be-re memb.e red log schoolhouse was erected, with a chimney which covered one end, dirt floor, and a log cut out to serve for a window, which served for the educational purposes of that day, and the men who are wielding the destinies of Linn county received most of their education in those primitive and rudely built huts. Neighbors began to gather sufficiently near to each other to form a school district, and they united together to put up one of these log school houses and hire a teacher, each one paying so much ])er scholar. The first school was taught by a Williain Mayhew, in 1844, in an old log building which stood near the spot that the first school-house was built on. His terms were three dollars per quarter per scholar. That school was the first one known to have been taught within the limits of Jefferson township. "When last heard from Mr. Mayhew had become a minister, and was located somewhere in the State. The Urst school-house was built on section sixteen, township Hfty-seven, of range twenty. This school-house was built of logs, and was put up by the settlers in 184:2, who were neighbors, and William Maxwell doing the carpenter work. It stood near Sinsintaifer, upon land now owned bj' Beverly Neece, and a short distance from Turkey Creek. After its completion the lirst teacher was a Mr. James. He was followed by E. G. Clough. These teachers " boarded round," and received from two to two dollars and iifty cents per scholar per term. The lowest price being for the ABC and Ba classes, and the latter for those advanced and could read, write, and cipher, after a fashion, or had mastered the rudiments of the primary class. It did not make the teachers of those days wealthy, but still there was enough to keep them and give them a little to travel on when through, or to start as a farmer by renting.

was in fact one of those log school-houses of the neighborhood. At first much of the preaching was done at the houses of the settlers, but when a few had been gathered together and the school-house raised, it also became a place of worship, and those who taught the Gospel of Christ occupied these educational institutes on their circuit. Preaching was seldom oftener than once a month, but when it was announced that preaching would be held, the old pioneers came from far and near. There wasn't much ceremony, and there was no usher to show you your seat, but so far as true religion was concerned, the old pioneer came nearer practicing the "Golden Kule" than mady so-called Christians of the present day. Rev. Dryden, a Methodisl", was among the first preachers of that day. He held service at William Maxwell's and other places.

Weaving, Etc

It was Mrs. Thomas Watson, Mrs. Nancy Sinsintaffer and Mrs. Druy Grindstaff who did the first weaving and spinning in the township. Tiie latter was also a good carpet weaver. The pestle and mortar were used for grinding when the settlers could not reach Keytesville or the liorse-mill near Glasgow, and the coon skin cap was the principal head covering to be seen among stalwart pioneers. There wasn't much enquiry about the fash- . ion in those days, and if the women could get eight or nine yards of calico or linsey it made a dress. It wasn't gored or cut bias, and it didn't have to hold up any hoop skirts. The girls also forgot to "bang" their hair, and this may be mentioned as showing tiieir strong sense. Each one had his or her own fashion, and it would last for years and years. But the girls " fixed up'' all the same and had their beaux, who did their sparking Sunday night.

The township improved, and the decade between 184:0 and 1850 was one of solid iinjiroveuient. The hind was beinoj taken up by actual settlers, and the fertility of the soil combined with tiie salubrity of the climate, made the soutliern part of Linn county very attractive to the immi<^rant.

Thert'. are nine school districts in the townshi]); all have good frame buildings, with such appliances as is necessary for a thorough English education preparatory to a more extended course, all the leading towns in the county having graded schools, and Laclede is no exception. These schools are all in a ver}' Nourishing condition, are ke]it up six months in the year, and are well patronized. These school-lnnises are all frame buildings costing from $1,000 down to $500, and they are all paid for. For a more full and complete histor}' of the schools of Linn county, with an account of the township fund, see the Chapter upon schools in the general county history. It explains fully the situation of all the schools in the county, and the school fnnds. State, county, and townshiji.

Jefferson township at the time Sullivan county was organized from the territory of Linn covered far more territory than now, and in fact was one of the original seven townships formed in the year 1845. Her northern boundary was the same as now, but east and west Jefferson township extetided from Locust Creek on the west to within two miles of range between eighteen and nineteen, being nine miles north and south, and twelve miles east and west, following, however, the channel of Locust Creek as to its western boundary. This extent of territory included all of lirookfield townshi|) and one mile off of the west side of Yellow Creek as these two townshi|is ai-e now formed.

As the township grew in ])opulation it was seen that two voting precincts would be needed, and as the towns of Laclede and JBrookfield were both in Jefferson township, there was a desire to have the township subdivided, making both of the towns a voting precinct. Other'townships were asking that this should be done, and so a petition was got up and presented to the coifnty court for action.

At the time (»f the subdivision of Yellow Creek townslii|) into two voting districts, or rather at the time the order was made defining the line of subdivision of that township, the County Court, acting upon the the ]>etition above mentioned, made an order dividing Jefferson township into two districts. This division was as follows:

"It is ordered by the court tliat Jefterson township be divided as follows: Commencing on the county line of Chariton county, at the section corner of sections thirty-four and thirty-five on said county line; thence north with said line to^^the northeast corner of section twenty-two and the northwest corner of section twenty-three, in township fifty-eight, of range twenty. All that portion lying east of said line to be called and styled the Brookfield district; and all west of said subdivision line to be called and styled the Laclede district, both in Jefferson township.

This division did not take place until after the close of the civil war. The completion of the Hannibal & St. Joseph Kailroad had brought into life several towns along the line of that road, and these towns springing up from five to six miles apart, there arose a spirit of rivalry. Brookfield having secured the division post at the expense of the life of Thayer, it became so excited over its probable future that it could not bear to be a part of a township, but wanted to be one all by itself or nearly so. The subdivision of Jefferson township into two voting precincts was but the prelude to a permanent divorce on the part of Brookfield from Jefferson and setting x[-p for herself. "When the time came for this new organization, Brookfield township, Jefferson township lost just one-half of her territory, excepting, perhaps, two or three hundred acres left her by the meanderings of Locust Creek on her western border.

This division was not opposed by the people of the western part of the township^ and especially was Laclede satisfied as the overshadowing power of Brookfield began to be felt, and the latter was shrewdly acting upon the motto of "getting all you can and keeeping what you get." So Laclede was happv for she would be the metropolis of Jefferson township, and she hoped that a north and south railroad would give her in time greater metropolitan proportions. This has not as yet been realized, but as Linn county increases in population and wealth, so will Laclede, like other towns, receive her share of progress.

Pottery Works

The works were first started in 18G8 by T. O. Fellows, and he manufactured largely of crocks, jugs, etc., until 1872. The demand being greater than he could supply lie sold out to Mr. O. W. Kelsey, who somewhat enlarged the works. The clay is of an excellent quality, and ready sale is made of the ware. Mr. Kelsey having run the works from 1^72 to 1878, he sold out to the present proprietor, Mr. John A. King, who has been extensively engaged in the business in Illinois. Mr. King-^ will add to the work that of making tiling and fine brick, as well as all kinds of crockery ware, of which the works have already a capacity of sixty thousand gallons annually. With this addition to these works it will prove one of the most profitable businesses as well as a valuable addition to the manufacturing interests of Jefferson township.

Among the mannfacturinii: interests of Jefl'erson township the Rural Flouring Mills stand at the head. They are located on Locust Creek, on section fourteen, township fifty-seven, of range twenty-one, about three and one-half miles from Laclede. These mills were erected in 1878, strongly and solidly built, have two runs of burs, with a capacity of twenty-five barrels of flour per day on the merchants' run. Messrs. H. B. Jones and George Murray are the builders and owners and the mill cost something over $4,000. Since the burning of the fine mill at Laclede this mill has been crowded with customers, especially on custom work, and has ground the past season over 10,000 bushels of grain in that department. The flouring run is kept busy filling the demands for local trade, and home dealers take the bulk of its trade. The building is twenty-eight by thirtyeight feet in size, three stories high and frame. Another run of stone is expected to be added so as to meet the entire demand of the local trade and at the same time be able to promptly take care of the custom work. Both departments are increasing and fully demand this addition to the mills.

Jefl'erson township has improved so far as its farming interest is con- more rapidly than any other township in the county excepting Jackson, which is an exclusively agricultural township, and Bucklin, the . latter only leading it twenty-six in number of farming population. It is third in actual population, Brookfield and Locust Creek townships alone having a greater number of residents. The corrected returns of the census give Jefl'erson township 1,802 in population, and Laclede 694, making ten less in Laclede than first reported, whichgave it 704. The taxable wealth of Jefl'erson township as returned by the assessor for 1881 is $387,545.

In 1876 Dr. J. C. Griffith, a pioneer of Laclede and a much valued and respected citizen, died on November fifteenth, and on December 25th, 1877, Thomas L. Watson, one of the early pioneers, not on]y of Jefl^erson township but of Linn county, passed away - one of the old landmarks, a good citizen, and an upright man, Jefl'erson township can well honor his memory.

Railroad Compromise

The matter of the railroad subscription of Jefl'erson township has been the source of much trouble. Had the railroad company been able to have fulfilled their contract, built the road as agreed, and kept the cars running, it is very doubtful if any opposition would have been made on the part of the people of Jefl'erson township to have paid their bonds in full, both principal and interest. But the road dragged along for years, and after it was completed it stopped running for many months between Laclede and Browning. Against this state of afl'airs Jefl'erson township protested, and that protest took shape in a refusal to pay the bonds, either principal or interest, in full. Quite an indignation meeting was held in Laclede, strongly protesting against paying tlie tax levied to pay interest on the bonds, and in fact it lias not been paid, and for the past few years no effort has been successful to compel the people even to pay the interest. In the general history a chapter will be found showing the township's bonded indebtedness. A vote has been taken and carried consenting to pay fifty cents on the dollar of principal and interest, but this the railroad company refused and so the fiirht is still ffoinor on. At the meeting referred to it was stated that in reality the vote that carried it was not legally given, as no special registration was made, and quite a number of opposition votes were refused because not registered. Still the people of Jefferson township are willing to pay for what they have received, but there can be no question in the minds of honorable men that a demand for full payment of principal and interest of those bonds by the railroad company, after it so lamentably failed in fulfiUino- its own contract, is simply a fraud upon the people which they should resist to the bitter end. The legal rights of corporate monopolies are onerous enough for the people to bear, but when deliberate fraud is added, justice and manhood alike demand resistance against oppression.

Cities Of The Deau

Jefi'erson township has four cemeteries. One at Laclede upon the prairie joining the town limits, lying at the top of a beautiful knoll, with a gentle slope in all directions. Here the loved ones are laid until the last trumpet shall sound, with their headstones and monuments glistening in the sunlight, or bathing in the soft light of the moon, taking on fantastic shapes and having a weird, fascinating attraction to those who tread its hallowed eround. Southeast from Laclede lies the cemetery near Sinsintalfer's on section ten, township fitty-seven, range twenty. The Llinckle cemetery on section seventeen, township fifty-seven, range twenty; and MaxwelTs on section four, township fifty-seven, range twenty, closes the list of the cities of the dead in Jefi'erson township.

Memorial Sekvice

On the twenty-sixth of September, 1881, Laclede aiid Jefterson township paid honor to the dead president. On the nineteenth day of September James A. Garfield, president of the United States, died of an assassin's bullet, and a nation went in mourning at his death. The business houses of Laclede closed their doors from eleven a. m. until four o'clock p. m., and memorial service was lield at the Methodist Episcopal church. Many of the farmers of Jefterson township came in to join in the ceremony, and ex- press their lieart-telt sympathy tor the widow and the fatherless, and a loss which has, as all expected, proved a national calamity. The dead president was buried at Cleveland, Ohio, September 26, 1881, and it was observed as a dav of mourninnr thron:'hoiit the Union.

At the session of the General Assembly in the winter of 1880-81, an act was passed known as the new organization law, which gives to each municipal township its local officers. This law in substance was passed in session of 1S71-T:?, leaving it optional with tlie counties to accept or reject by a vote of the people. Some approved and adopted it, others did not; and in 1877 the law was repealed. It was very evident, liowever, that it was a great im- ])rovement, and it was again re-enacted at the above date, but the optional clause was left out, and the counties were to adopt it. Under this law Linn county elected townshij) officers the following spring. Jefferson township list is composed as follows, the election being held on the first Tuesday in April of each year which was April 5, 1881, for its first enforcement. Officers: Trustee, J. jNF. Welch; collector, Jefferson D. Eummel; clerk and assessor, li. W. Mitchell; constable, John B. Hurlbut; justices of the peace, G. "W. Freeman and Alfred Williams.

Oak Akbor

This church, known as Oak Arbor,^ is of the Methodist denomination the Methodist Episcopal church South. It is the oldest cliurch in the township, having been organized in 1841, when service was held at several of the members' houses, and for quite a number of 3'ears at the house of Mr. Maxwell. The church members also met at Schnell's, "or, as it was called. Oak Arbor school-house, and the church went by that name. The first pastors were the Rev. Dryden, Rev. Cox, and others. The present membership is but twenty-five. It has been kept up since 181:6 pretty regularly l>ut of cuurse at times rather slimly attended, and sometimes it would seem as if it must give up. The membership is slowly increasing, and it is hoped that more earnest work will place it in a more flourishing condition. The Church is situated on the southwest quarter of section three, township fifty, seven, of range twenty, about two miles from the town of Laclede. Its original members, as far as can be ascertained, were William Maxwell, Elizabeth Maxwell, Michael Whitley, Jane Welsh, Jacob and Nancy Sinsintaft'er, Ilebecca Simpson, Ettor. Siusintaft'er. Most of these members are now no more of this world, but have crossed the dark stream to enjoy eternal sunlight. May those who are left be ready when called to join those who have gone before.

Crimes And Casualties

As early as 1843 a very unfortunate accident happened near Myle's railb on Locust Creek. Two boys, one white, and bound to Dr. Dry den, the other a colored boy, a slave owned by the Doctor, went in swimming and were both drowned. They were not far from eighteen years of age. How it'happened is not known, unless taken with cramps. The body of the colored boy was found next day by Wharton R. Barton, and the other body was recovered soon after.

In the spring of 1852 Thomas Shipley and William Daily were hauling from Brunswick, and arrived at the ford at Myle's mill, then Pierce's mill, where there was a company of fifteen or twenty gathered, having a baptizing. In the load of goods was a barrel of whisky, which they put on tap, and Shipley and Daily went to perform the ceremony with the others. The}'- all got jolly, and from that to a fight. Pierce, owner of the mill, tried to stop it, but got into the row and had his skull broken. Amstead Hill and a man named Smith were also badly beaten and knocked senseless. The row finally ended, but it was a sadly demoralized crowd.

A Mr. White killed John Taylor. Trouble over a horse trade. White was a farmer and was tried and acquitted, his plea being self-defense. This occurred in the spring of 1861.

William Tracy, a boy nineteen years of age, undertook to force an entrance into a house of bad repute with a companion. They were warned off, but still continued their efforts when the woman shot through the door killing Tracy. The woman was tried and acquitted in 1870.

On June 4th, 1871, Sheriff' Brott succeeded in capturing a gang of horsethieves named Gary, Korlow, Moore, and Clark, and they worked out their punishment in the penitentiary.

Two men attacked the house of the brothers Upchard, one mile from Laclede, in March, 1874. Evidently robbery was intended. They fired into the house no less than ten times. No one was hurt, but one of the brothers had a narrow escape, one ball passing through his coat sleeve. One brother got out and gave the alarm.

Harriet Henderson (colored) attended revival meeting and took active part in the shouting, etc. She was a large woman, and on her way home from church dropped dead. Apoplexy brought on by undue excitement. This was in Laclede and happened May 10, 1874.

In August, 1874, a son of William Sanders, living six miles south of Laclede, about thirteen years old, went out to get a mule, and catching it tied one end of the halter around his body. The mule got scared and ran away, dragging the boy. It killed him before reaching his home.

In July, 1875, Sterling Shittlett drank too deep of the flowing bowl, and returning from a picnic, fell into the water of Turkey Creek and was drowned.

Early in November, 1875, a son of Widow Elliott, about sixteen years of age, let his gun fall while on a hunting expedition, and was shot through the ankle. His life was saved, but his leg was amputated. On the same day a son of B. Williams living some five miles south of Laclede, shot himself by accident through the abdomen, and the wound proved mortal.

On Thanksgiving Day, November, 1875, a number of boys went to Chillicothe for a ride, and on their return a son of J. L. Reynolds fell from the cars and was killed. Those who came back safe told of the accident in the morning and the bod}' was recovered.

William Davis, on May 1st, 1877, being under the influence of liquor undertook to cross a piece of trestle ahead of an approaching train. It resulted in his death.

There was a school mutiny in Laclede, December 21, 1877, when the boys locked out the teacher. With the help of the girls in the second story the teacher succeeded in getting in and proposed to settle the matter, but the boys all went out and locked the teacher in. Mutual explanation was made and it was decided to adjust matters amicably, and all matters in dispute to be dropped on both sides. This was done and the school went on. This little incident is mentioned so that after a few years hence the boys of the period will know their fathers were boys once, and what good boys they were.

The sudden death of Mrs. Clarinda Bigger, wife of Judge II. E. Bigger, Pebruary 28, 1879, on her way to singing-school, caused intense sorrow to a large circle of relatives and friends. She died of apoplexy and was fiftyibur years of age.

The last accident of a fatal nature to be recorded is taken from the Linneus Bulletin. It says: " Last Saturday week a lad named Palmer, about fourteen x'ears old, went rabbit hunting, accompanied by two dogs. He failed to return in the evening, but no uneasiness was felt in consequence, as he was frequently in the habit of taking such excursions and going to a sister's and remaining a day or two. On Monday morning one of the dogs came home, and the night following the other arrived. The lad's mother then felt confident that something serious had happened to the boy, or the dogs would not have deserted him. On Tuesday a vigilant search was insti- tilled, and after a jew hours he was found dead - shot by his own hand, accidentall}'. From appearances it is supposed that he was standing upon a stump with his gun on his shoulder, probably lield carelessly, when it slipped, fell, and in falling the hammer struck the stump with sufficient force to explode the cap. His body was fearfully mutilated and burnt from liis waist to his shoulder."

Chapter Xxiii City Of Laclede

Its Location - The Beaut n of its Surroundings - When Laid Out and by Whom - Advance Progress - Items of Interest - Taking a Best - The Effects of the Civil War - Incorporation - Metes and Bounds - Indian Visits - City of the Fourth Class - Ward Boundaries - Mayor and Aldermen - Out of Debt - County-seat Vote - Business Houses - Churches and Civic Societies - The Full History of Holtzclaw's Raid in 1864 - Biographies.

Laclede is laid out on a rising eminence surrounded by a beautiful undulating prairie. Some three miles to the west can be seen the range of hills whose banks line the waters of Locust Creek, and in all other directions is one vast expanse of rolling prairies, dotted here and there with residences, barns, and orchards, giving the sight-seers a beautiful and varied landscape upon which to feast their eyes, and at the same time showing the thrift and energy of a wealthy farming community. Laclede has not improved very rapidly. Brookfield, which had the help of the railroad to build it up, has exceeded her in growth, and the rising metropolis of Parson Creek, Meadville, is doing its utmost to become a rival. It is, therefore, necessary for Laclede to be up and doing, and see that in this race for supremacy she is not left to mourn in the background. Proo^ress demands enlightened and energetic action, and prosperity ceaseless labor. If the capital of Jefferson township expects to grow without exerting herself she is doomed to bitter disappointment.

Location

Laclede is located on section live, township fifty-seven, range twenty. The principal portion of the town is built upon the northwest quarter of the section and on tha north part of the southwest quarter. The corporation lines include one section of land, being the east half of section six and the west half of section five, the north part of the latter only at present occupied. As'laid out, the Hannibal & St. Joseph Kailroad track nearly divided the town equally, north and south, but there is but little building south of that division line at present. It is in nearly the center of the township east and west, but is three miles from the northern boundary, while it is five miles north of the Chariton county line on the s nth.

When Laid Out

Laclede was laid out August 19, 1858, by Henry W. Cross, of Brunswick, J. L. Worlow, a Mr. Eastman, and J. M. Clark. The name, "Laclede" was given to it b}' Mr. Cross, and was in honor of the old pioneer of Missouri, and one of the founders of St. Louis, LacledeXiquestc.

Among the first to erect residences were some of those who first laid out the town. Mr. Worley put up one, and Aaron Quick another, and they were iivinir in them at the time the first business house was erected. This store was built by Thorton T. Easley, of Linneus, for Jacob E. Quick, and was situated on block twelve, corner lot. A post-ofiice was established in 1855, and Aaron Quick was appointed postmaster. Joseph Hamburger, having got his house in order, kept the first boarding house in Laclede, and they do say that Joseph kept a good house, and was not reckless in his charges. The second business house was Mr. Hedrick's and the t'^ird belonged to M. (t. Koush, who is a hale and hearty old man, a good citizen, and one of the landmarks of the town. This house was erected in 1857, on the east half of block twelve, in the original plot. T. W. Long put up a house where the Central Hotel now stands. Quick's house stood near where Mr. Reed lives, and. they began to be put up promiscuously all over town. Li the years 1857 and 1858 Laclede improved probably as much as in any two years of its existence. Perhaps not in the value of the houses and residences put up, but in their number. Three log dwellings stood not far from where the two first business houses were erected.

It was in 1857 that the first school-house was built in Laclede. This was also by Jacob E. Quick, who seems to have been a leading spirit, and an energetic man. Mr. Quick employed E. G. Clough to put up the schoolhouse for him. It was about sixteen feet square, and cost, when completed, seventy-five dollars. Miss Martha Quick, daughter of the owner, taught the first school within its walls. This school-house was for several years the only "church" edifice in Laclede, it being used pretty constantly for that purpose.

The first public school-building was erected in 1859, and stood just north of the site of the present fine brick structure. It was a frame building, and was moved ofl" and used as a school for colored children.

Items Of Interest

The year 1859 saw the completion of the Hannibal & St. Joseph to Laclede. In 1857 the first male child was born within the corporate limits -

Frank Dick, son of James and Jane Dick, born in August, 1857. The first female cliild was Charlotte Frances, daughter of Moses G. and Mary Elizabeth Roush, born July 27, 1857. This child is now the wife of Mr. Charles L. Molton, and at present resides at Burlington, Iowa, her husband being a conductor on the Chicago, Burlington & Kansas City Railroad, formerly Burlington & Southwestern.

The first regular physician was Dr. C. M. Robinson, who came in the year 1858. He is, or was, when last heard from, a citizen of Bentonville, Arkansas.

The first religious service was at one ot the boarding shanties along the line of the new i-ailroad for the accommodation of the railroad hands, Rev. Father Hogan officiating.

The present cemetery was laid out by the order of Masons. There was a military grave-yard on the McAfee place in the southeast part of town and it was believed some twenty-five were buried there. Some were taken up afterward, and the place is known no more. It has been plowed over and all traces of its former use obliterated.

The first published newspaper was started in 1860, called the Laclede Register, edited by D. E. H. Johnson, and championed the cause of Bell and Everett. The office was at the corner of State and Yernon streets, the building yet standing. During the war the I^egister suspended and soon after a paper was started, edited by Mr. Garner, and kept up for a few years. Quite a number have started, but not all have been successful. Sometime after the war a Mr. Smith started the Repiiblican, in 1870, and continued it for nearly three years, then selling out removed to Brookfield. No paper was again started until the present paper, nnder the charge of Mr. Brunemer, was established in 1881. So far it has been successfully managed and is a credit to Laclede, and should be liberally sustained. Few towns have prospered without a newspaper, and in this day and generation it is impossible.

After the sudden and rapid growth of 1857 and 1858 Laclede took a rest, and during the civil war, little advanced progress had been made. At the time the censns was taken, in 1860, although the village population was not reported it numbered about 300 and seemed to gain slowly but not enough to excite attention. At the close of the war it took a start and gradually grew until a local census taken of the county in 1868, showed a total population of five hundred and forty-nine. Of this number four hundred and fift}'- nine were white and ninety were colored citizens. The census of 1880 gives a population of six hundred and ninety-four, and at this writing, March, 1882, wull not vary much from eight hundred. With the exception of Brookfield, tha towns of Linn county have not been of rapid growth, and

Soon after the war the citizens of Laclede began to think of being an incorporated town, and the question was soon successfully agitated and a majority of the citizens concluded to have a town organization with its metes and bounds duly acknowledged. A petition was gotten up and signed in sufficient numbers to warrant action, and duly presented to the County Court for action at the March term, 1866. The petition was favorably acted upon and the order placed upon the records.

Incorporation Of Laclede

"It is ordered by the court that the petition of W. J. Porter and others be received and filed; towit, to incorporate the town of Laclede, in Linn county, Missouri, the metes and bounds of said incorporation being as follows: Commencing at the northeast corner of the northwest quarter of section number live, township fifty-seven north, of range twenty west, in the county of Linn; thence west three hundred and twenty rods to the northwest corner of the northeast quarter of section number six, in the same township; thence south three hundred and twenty rods to the southwest corner of the southeast quarter of said section six; thence east three hundred and twenty rods to the southeast corner of the southwest, quarter of section number five, above mentioned; thence north three hundred and twenty rods to the place of beginning. The said town of Laclede to be incorporated in the corporate name of the inhabitants of the town of Laclede, with the metes and bounds as above described. That W. J. Porter, John L. Reynolds, John F. Pershing, John Lomax, and R. W. Mitchell be and they are hereby appointed trustees of said corporation, and that the same take efiect from the sixth of March, 1866, and that the sheriff deliver the said trustees with a copy of this order."

Of course after this incorporation Laclede began to feel its importance,, and a full line of town officials was necessary to properly uphold the dignity of the new corporation. The board of trustees therefore met at their earliest convenience and made the following official appointments: C. A. Stone, clerk and attorney; J. B. Ilurlbut, marshal and street commissioner; ^Y. p. Addison, assessor and collector; and R. W. Mitchell, treasurer. Whether any other board of trustees was elected or officers appointed is not of record, and the next change appears when the citizens, getting tired of being only a village, aspired to become a city of the fourth class, which after twelve years of village life was effected.

After this incorporation the town settled down again and it passed on in the same routine way, nothing of special interest occurring for years to

A City Of The Fourth Class

In the fall of 1879, claiming a population of seven hundred, Laclede concluded to put on metropolitan airs and become a city of the fourth class under the act granting such privileges which was passed by the legislature and approved in April, 1877. The chairman of the board of trustees was authorized to call a special election and submit the question to the people, and it was carried almost unanimously, only two votes being polled against it. This was on JN^ovember 3, 1879, and an election was called for April, 1880, to vote for mayor and councilmen. The result was as follows:

Mayor, G. W. Freeman; aldermen: east ward, E. D. Edwards, Harvey Hendrickson; west ward, J. C. Carothers, Virgil True; marshal, M. E. Thornburg; clerk and attorney, O. F. Libby; treasurer, J. D. Rummel; collector and street commissioner, M. E. Thornburg.

Mr. Thornburg resigned as city marshal, and J. B. Hurlbut was appointed December 6, 1880. After the spring election W. W. Pease was appointed, who held until December 9, 1881, when he also resigned, and George Reed, present incumbent, was elected. G. W. Freeman, the first elected mayor, was reelected, as was, also, the aldermen, except Hendrickson, who was ^succeeded by James Maybee. The spring appointments by the mayor and council for 1881 resulted in the selection of J. N. Wilson for treasurer and marshal, as above.

Ward Boundaries

East ward, all that part of the city of Laclede east of a line commencing in the center of State street on the north line of the corporation, running thence south along the center of said State Street, to the center of Prairie Street, thence west to the center of Olive Street, thence south to the southern limits of the city, or corporation line. West ward: All west of the lines above referred, and within the corporate limits of the city.

County Seat

The county removal question lias come before the people of Linn county upon two occasions, once in 1870 and again in 1880, a decade of time passing between the votes. In both of the contests Brookfield led off, and in fact Brookfield was the only contestant. Laclede, however, did not propose to allow her overgrown neighbor to have all the honors, that is both the commercial emporium and the county seat, and so it made application at both trials to have the county seat removed to Laclede. There is not a doubt, even in Brookfield, that Laclede is in dead earnest in wanting the county seat, and there is every assurance on the part of the most prejudiced that Laclede prefers the present location of the county seat by a large majority if she cannot secure the prize herself, and it looks very much as if, on this county seat question, that Laclede was a sort of thorn in the side of Brookfield. The first vote for the removal of the county seat to Laclede resulted in two hundred and one votes in its favor out of a trifle over 3,100 cast. In 1880 she received two hundred and eighty-two votes in its favor, two hundred and forty-four of this number being cast in Jefferson township, showing that the people of the township stand by their handsome little city in her aspirations for metripolitan greatness. The chances for the removal of the county seat are not flattering, as scarcely a one-third vote can be had in its favor, and it requires two thirds to accomplish it. This will, in no way, however, affect the good nature of Laclede so long as she is able to spike the removal gun of her neighbor living a few miles to the west.

Business Houses

As has been before remarked, Laclede has not made a rapid growth, and at the time is as large as the surrounding country is able to support. The business interests of Laclede are probably up to the standard of towns of her size, and she is represented by nearly every branch in a greater or less degree. Below will be found a list of the business houses doiog business April 1, 1882.

First Presbyterian Church

This church was first organized November 25, 1866. A few earnest workers took the matter in hand, which was the foundation of the present prosperous church. The original members were John Lomax, Mrs. Anna Lomax, Ralph Smith, Eh'za Smith, Felix Margrave, E. S. Foreman, Arthur Glover and Mary A. Glover. The church grew in membership, but not much in wealth until 1875, when preaching was finally suspended till 1880. Having no house of worship of their own they concluded to wait a few years for better times. The elders first ordained all died during the suspension above mentioned, and within a few months of each other. The Rev. J. P. Finley was the first pastor, and continued until the fall of 1868, when the Rev. A. J, Caldwell was appointed stated supply, and served until the springof 1870. The Rev. James Reed received the next appointment and continued as pastor, although preaching was suspended for a time, until the first of September, 1881. The organization at last made an efibrt to secure a church building of their own, and although the present membership is but fifteen, they have, with the help of their friends, erected a neat and substantial church building at a cost of $1,004. At the reorganization James C. Carother and Samuel Boyd were ordained as elders in this church, at that time the others all being dead. The church was dedicated January 31, 1881, and has before it a prospect of a useful existance.

Methodist Episcopal Church

The organization of this church was in the year 1865, and from its first inception seemed to start upon a prosperous career. Not all of the names of the original members could be ascertained, but among them were the following well known persons:

J. C. Jones, J. L. Reynolds, M. D. Hardy, Benjamin Anderson, "W. R. Lane, William Rodgers, John Welsh, and Robert Schrock, Rev. R. E. Sidebottom, becoming their pastor. In the following year the congregation concluded to erect a house of worship, and succeeded in their endeavor, finishing a neat and tastefnl edifice at a cost of $900, It is built in the gothicstyle, and was dedicated the year it was completed, 1866, by the Rev. D. F. Crary. The gentlemen who have officiated as pastors are as follows, in the order named:

Rev. R. E. Sidebottom, mentioned above, and Reverends G. Hamilton. W. W. Roberts, Z. S. Weller, T. B. Bratton, J, M. Parker, A, H, Rowell, C, Allen, J, R, Sapeen, I, Hill, J, Kelso, J, H, Pollard and the present incumbent, J, F. Mesner, During the pastorate of the Rev, C, Allen, a violent wind-storm damaged it very seriously, and a few years later, while under the care of the Rev. J, H. Pollard, another tornado badly wrecked it. Means, however, were at once raised to put it in thorough repair. In addi- tion to this the church felt the need of a bell, and money was raised throui^h the instrumentality of E. M. Tracy to purchase one costing $400. This bell weighs 1,000 pounds, and is of exquisite tone, ringing out the glad tidings of peace on earth and good will to man. Under the active exertions of its present pastor, the Rev. J. F. Mesner, the interior has been thoroughly renovated, and the church reseated, and is now one of the most pleasant places of worship to be found in the county. It has a membership at this time of 108, and its progress and usefulness in the future is exceedingly bright and promising.

Christian Church

This is, comparatively speaking, a new church, for its organization did not take place until on the fourth Lord's Day in March, 1880. Those who were instrumental in effecting its organization and enrolled their names as the original members of the church were W. J. Porter, Mrs. Sarah A. Porter, ^y. p. Spurgeon, Mrs. A. E. Spurgeon, Norman Kelm, Mrs. O. Kelm, TV. D. Wood, Mary Wood, John W. W. Waugh,Mrs. Jennie Wilson, Elizabeth O'Neal, and others whose names were not ascertained. The church is a handsome frame structure costing $750, and is neatly finished and furnished. The church was erected the same year of its organization, and was dedicated November 12, 1880, by Elder Rupel who preached an impressive sermon to a large congregation, which was listened to with deep interest. Those who have acted as teachers of the divine word were first Elder John W. W. Waugh, followed by Elders J. B. Stutsman, W. W. Jones, D. M. Cotton, D. T. Wright, Elder Rupell, etc. The present membership is twenty-five. Death called away Brother A. B. Post and Sister Sarah A. Porter, and a few others have removed to other places. During the summer months they have Sunday-schools and service is held on the second and fourth Lord's days of each month regularly. The present elders are W. J. Porter, and W. P. Spurgeon; deacons Norman Kelm, and W. D. Wood. On the thirty-first day of December, 1881, the church debt was entirely paid ofl" and the opening of the new year, 1882, the bell sang out a joyous peal, for it was free. The church is prosperous, and those who hold the trust now, when called hence will have said of them, " Well done, good and faithful servants."

Congregational Church

This is one of the oldest churches in Laclede, it having been organized in 1865, under very fair auspices, but as the growth of the town has been slow, so has the growth of the churches. The original members of this church were llev. E. D. Seward, Mrs. Sarah A. Seward, Catharine L. Seward, Mrs. E. F. W. Bullard, John Paine, Miss Gertrude C. Seward, Eleanor L Seward, Flora L. Seward, Mrs. Mary Gillette, Mrs. Nancy Harrington, and Mrs, Mary Masterman.

The church has steadily prospered, haviiior had something like a hundred members since its organization, of which thirty-six are now connected with it, death and removals not allowing a rapid increase. In the spring of 1866 they went earnestly to work to build themselves a place of worship, and by the first of July of that year had put up a handsome structure costing $2,000, which was dedicated the first sabbath in July of that year, the dedication sermon having been preached to a crowded house by the Kev. J. M. Sturdevant Jr., whose remarks were listened to with deep interest. The names of the pastors who have held the position are, first, one of the original organizers of the church, an earnest man and faithful worker, the Rev. E. D. Seward, who retained the trust three years. Eev. John Allender followed, who also retained his pastorate nearly three years, followed by the Revs. W. W". Whitmore and Albert Bowers who remained but a few months each. The Rev. W. H. Hicks served three and one-half years; Rev. R. R. Davies one year; Samuel Ollerenshaw, two years; Rev. J. J. Weage, three years; and Rev. J. Vincent Willis, the present pastor. The church is in a sound condition, and with the growth of the town, so will the church grow and prosper, for earnest men and women have its future in their custody, and will render a faithful account of their trust.

The Amana Lodge No. 356 of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows was instituted by C. R. Hutchins of Macon City. The date of the dispensation and also of the charter is May 19, 1876. The charter members were Calvin Allen, J. IE. Manning, E. M. Tracy, George H. Tracy, 'J. H. Brunemer, and W. T. Hodson.

The membership at this time numbers twenty-five, is in good condition, with every prospect of continued prosperity and steady growth. The lodge was instituted July 7, 1876, and is jointly owned by the Odd Fellows and Masons. It is a neat frame structure and cost, without furniture, $750. The present ofiicers are G. H. Tracy, "N". G.; H. Hendrickson, V. G.; H. A. Stone, secretary; V. True, treasurer; and O. F. Libby, permanent secretary.

Laclede Lodge No. 43 of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, was instituted by N. W. Newton, D. G. M. The charter is dated December 31, 1877. The names of the charter members of this excellent order were Robert C. Schrock, W. P. Spurgeon, T. E. Foreman, A. N. W. Palmer, R. C. Palmer, John B. Hurlbut, J. n. Ayers, Ralph Smith, M. E. Thornburg, Thomas C. Maxwell, Abraham Bird.

They Iiave no hall of their own, but meet at Wilson's hall regularly twice a month on the second and fourth Tuesdays. The first officers of the order were W. P. Spurgeon, W. M.; M. E. Tliornburg, F.; A. N. W. Palmer, O.; R. L. Schrock, recorder; J. B. Hurlbut, financier; R. C. Palmer, receiver; Ralph Smith, P. M. W.; T. C. Maxwell, G.; T. E. Foreman, I. watch: and A. Bird, O. W..

This lodge is one of the oldest in the county, having been first chartered in 1S57. The charter, however, was surrendered and the records lost, and therefore much of its early history, in fact, nearly all, is lost. There are some of the members still living, but outside of the fact that the lodge was instituted and charter granted and surrendered very little else can be remembered. The lodge, however, was again reorganized and a dispensation granted May 4, 18G0. It was instituted by T. B. Howe, by proxy IST. A. Orubb, District Deputy Grand Master, and the following officers installed: F. M. Bell, worshipful master; John Lomax, senior warden; A. M. Clarkson, junior warden; J. R. Sands, treasurer; L. H. Weatherby, secretary; N. W. Harris, S. D.; C. P. Patterson, J. D.; John Morrison, tyler. The lodge did not receive their charter until May 29, 1862, and the list of the charter members are here given as far as the names are recollected or could be given the writer: F. M. Bell, John S. Cooper, John Lomax, J. R. Sands, and several others. On receiving the charter the following officers were elected under its provisions: F. M. Bell, worshipful master; John S. Cooper, senior warden; John Lomax, junior warden. The lodge is in good standing and is in a more flourishing condition at this time than ever before. They bought a hall in 1881, and, with repairs and furnishing, it cost Sl,000. It was dedicated September 21, 1881, by Reuben Barney, District Deputy Grand Master. The lodge now has thirty-one members, and its present officers are: G. W. Freeman, worshipful master; L. W. Lyons, senior warden; W. W. Pease, junior warden; II. H. Hendrickson, treasurer; Z. T. Standley, secretary; A. H. Love, tyler.

The Holtzclaw Raid

The civil war caused far more deviltry and inhumanity by those who remained at home as pretended guards than those who entered the army on one side or the other in defense of what they believed right. Loyalt}' - a word that should never have a meaning in a republican form of government - was used to cover the darkest and some of the most damning and brutal acts of the war. KetaliatioQ became an absorbent desire, and between the bnsliwhaekers on one side and the State ^^uards, spies, traitors, and' cowards, on the otlier, the home fiijht was a perfect helh Cold-blooded murders occurred, and when some brute in human form secured power, his will was law and rapine and murder the result. The dai'k days of the civil war was when brave men went to the front and cowards with brutal instincts joined the home guards and the bushwhackers, and between the two, innocents suffered and law was a farce. At Laclede, were at times home guards, militia, or some foreign company like the Kansas Jay Hawkers, or some disreputable company from Illuiois or Iowa, and in turn the confederate side turned out their bushwhackers or guerillas, justice was not known, and between the two murder for retaliation, and a good many out of pure fiendishment, was common.

The Eighteenth Of June, 1864

One of the most exciting episodes which happened at Laclede was known as the Holtzclaw raid. Clifton Hotzclaw's father was killed by the Federals, it was claimed, for harboring the noted guerrilla chief. Bill Anderson. The senior Holtzclaw was undoubtedly a rebel sympathizer, but not an acactive participant. His death caused his son Clifton to swear vengence on his murderers, and well he kept his oath. "With his rendezvous on Musselforks in Chariton county, Holtzclaw raided all the adjoining counties, taking the property of Union men wherever and whenever found, and obnoxious Union men were unceremoniously killed. This state of affairs, however^ was not all on one side, for Holtzclaw had felt the force of the troops sent out for his capture more than once. His raid on Laclede, which had been held by a Federal guard, but was not at the time of his raid, was for plunder of the Union men, and not to kill, excepting two* men who had played spies on him and his command, and he proposed to get even. Luckily they were away. They came into Laclede and commenced the work of plunder, the citizens being placed on the square under guard. Below is given a full account of this raid taken from a newspaper called the Union,. published June 24, 1864. It says:

Laclede Robbed By Bushwhackers

" On Saturday the eighteenth instant, at about four o'clock p. m., CaptaiD Holtzclaw with between sixteen and thirty men dashed into this place from the west, entering the town between the post office and Clarkson's old stand. Though it was broad daylight such was the carlessness of the citizens, that the invaders rode one mile along the big road through the open prairie without being seen till they announced their presence in the town with yells the most terriffic.

out of their houses and formed them with the male citizens from the country in a line on the public square, manifestl}' to prevent them from getting their arms or carrying information to the soldiers at Brookfield.

This done, the work of plundering commenced in the post-office and store occupied by John F. Pershing. Crossing to the east portion of town they found quite a number of citizens in Earl's hall, unarmed, except David Crowder, a discharged soldier, who had a revolver. Seeing the situation one man or more with shot-guns, cocked and presented, he took deliberate aim from the window and mortally wounded James Nave. A comrade of Nave's instantly shot Mr. Crowder dead. At this a portion of the men came -down the stairway while others rushed out at the east window, jumping on top of Mrs. Earl's residence and thence to the ground. Among these was 'Squire John li. Jones, a good man and lawj'er of this place He with the rest was halted the third time, but he continued to run, trying, it is supposed to get to his drug store, when he was shot dead on the street leading to Linneus. At this Captain Holtzclaw came up and expressed deep regret, stating that it was not his intention to hurt any one, but that his orders must be respected and obeyed. While these things were occurring two men -had escaped from town and making their way to Brookfield gave the alarm, and in the course of two hours or less a train with Federal soldiers from that place came in sight, and Captain Holtzclaw and his men quietly withdrew south by the Bell House, sending Mr. Nave west in the Linneus hack. The soldiers made pursuit; one squad on the locomotive west after the hack, running parallel with the hack they fired repeated volleys at it, wounding Nave a second time, and mortally wounding one of the men with him, and it is supposed the other was mortally wounded also. The squad going south accomplished nothing. While Captain Holtzclaw's men were plundering the stores he made a short speech to the citizens, in substance as follows:

"He had no ill feeling toward any Union man simply because he was such, but has visited Laclede in relation to outrages committed upon his friends about Keytesville. There are, he said, some abolitionists in the place who ought to be executed, and that if he had to visit the place again he would lay it in rnins and deal less leniently with the people. If he heard that an}' of his southern friends were abused or his men hurt or killed, or if pursued b}' the citizens he would deal with them severely, killing two every one of his men killed." Pie added, "I am well posted and know all that is going on here." He left no list of his southern friends, and the editor added that they didn't know there were any there if he had not told them. The value of goods, money, and stock taken by the raiders amounted to over $3,000. The editor makes the following closing comments:

"It is believed that Captain Holtzclaw did not intend to kill anyone, -with the exception of two men, for whom his men made frequent calls, but neither' of them were in town at the time. He could have killed fifty men and burned the town had he been so disposed, for the whole was completely in his power. We feel very- certain that had Mr. Crowder not shot, and Mr. Jones halted when commanded, they would both be now alive, and this is the impression of the entire community. The raiders did not, it was thouo-ht, accomplish all they intended and the editor thinks that the people would be to blame if they were again caught asleep after the warning they received. Nave was considered the pilot of the band, his home having been near Meadville, and he was well acquainted in Laclede. He died the next day at the house of a man named Stepp. It was reported that a man named Riffgan shot him while on his dying bed, and another coward by the name of Nicholas shot him after he was dead. These men went out to Captain Nave's hearing he was at Stepp's. One incident of another kind was that a Mr. Love, one of the citizens, when ordered out to the square dropped his pocket-book containing a couple of hundred dollars by a log, in hopes of saving it. His daughter. Miss Lauretta, came out to see her father while under guard, and he told her what he had done. She was quickwitted and knowing she could only get it by stratagem, quietly loosened her skirt as she came to the log, and seeing the pocket-book, let loose of the skirt as she stepped upon the log and it dropped of course. She blushed, of course, at such a mishap, but gathered up her skirt; but in doing so that pocket-book somehow was found in it on reaching home. This was two hundred dollars saved. This lady is now Mrs. Cowles, of Ottumwa, Iowa. Colonel Sartain, one of Poindexter's men, who fired on steamer White Cloud, on the Missouri River, was captured and brought to Laclede where he was tried and shot. He received his death standing, saying " he knelt to no man." His body was given decent burial.

Albert Anderson

son of George and Agnes, {nee Hunt) Anderson, was born in Peoria county, Illinois, September 20, 1853, where he lived until fifteen years of age, being reared on a farm, and educated in the common schools. In 1866, he, with his parents, removed to Knox county, Illinois, and in 1869, came to Linn county, Missouri, where they still reside. Mr. Anderson was married March 2, 1881, to Miss Mollie Pepper, daughter of John and Frances E. {nee Maxwell) Pepper, of Linn county, Missouri. He is regarded as one of the most enterprising young farmers of Jefterson township. - son of Squire and Sophrona {nee Lord) Anderson, was born in Genesee county, New York, October 29, 1831. In 183(), his parents removed to Huron county, Ohio, and in 1838, to Licking county, Oliio, living there and in Knox, the adjoining county, until 18-16, when they went to Peoria county, Illinois, and were engaged in farming there till 1866. Mr. Anderson was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools. In 1866, he removed to Knox eounty, Illinois, and three years later to Linn county, Missouri, where he now resides, owning a fine farm of 560 acre. He secured the land when it was wild, but has made it one of the best farms in the county. The dwelling upon it cost about $2,000, around which are ornamental trees and thirteen acres of orchard, the latter being one of the finest in the county. Tiie farm is well stocked, especially with fine sheep, of which there are on the farm from 800 to 1,000 head. Mr. Anderson was married November 28, 1852, to Miss Agnes Hunt, daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth Hunt, of Peoria county, Illinois. They have by this union eleven children, four of whom are married and living in Linn county. Their names are Milton A., Dolly A., Sophrona E., Sarah M., Herbert Jj., Sylvester Andrew, George W., Eflie A, Emma E., William O., and Yettie May. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson have been members of the M. E. Church for twent^'-five years. He being a steward.

George Washington Adams

son of Dr. Spencer and Mary Ann Adams, nee Holmes, was born in Otsego county, New York, J une 5, 1834. In 1840 he, with his parents, removed to Meigs county, Ohio, where they lived, and in Jackson county, Yirginia, until he grew to manhood. At the age of twenty years he clerked for Armstrong & Rice, at Ravenswood, Jackson county, Yirginia, for three years, the last two years having full charge of the store. He then engaged in farming in the same county, which he followed until 1865. He then removed to Laclede, Missouri, and in 1866 bought a farm in Chariton county, same State. There he resided till 1869, when he returned to Yirginia, and in 1870 moved back to Linn county, to the farm which he now owns, near Laclede. There he has since resided, and stands deservedly high in the esteem of the entire community. Mr. Adams has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and also of the Masonic orders since he became twenty-one years of age. Plis wife has been a church member since her fifteenth year. Mr. Adams was married December 22, 1859, to Miss Celina E. Kendall, daughter of Elisha and Betsey Kendall. She was born in the State of Georgia and reared in Jackson county, Yirginia. By this union there were seven children, four of whom are living, their names being, Francis G.. George G., Myrtle B., and Clarence E. Adams.

George W. Benway

son of Moses and Percilla (^i^e Passano) Benway, was born in tlie District of Montrebal, Canada East, May 11, 1837. In 1838 his parents removed to the United States, and located in Jeft'erson county, New York, where he was reared on a tarm and received a common school education. In 1867 he removed to Linn county, Missouri, and located near Brookfield. Three years later he removed to the farm where he now resides. This he owns- It comprises two hundred and forty acres, well improved and well stocked; besides other stock there are fifty head of cattle and fourteen head of sheep. Mr. Benway was married July 4, 1861, to Miss Maria Vasbur^h, daughter of Jacob and Clarissa {nee Crane) Yasburgh, of Jefferson county. New York, but natives of Canada. Mr. and Mrs. Benway have had five children: Freddie F., Charles A., and Willie H. are living. George died when eleven months old, and Martin when seven months old. Willie H., aged twelve years, has a natural talent for music and excels in mathematics. His talents are truly remarkable for one of his age.

Samuel Boyd

son of William and Margaret {nee Simpson) Boyd, was born in Belmont county, Ohio, April 30, 1840. His father was prominent in the United Presbyterian Church, being an elder for over fifty years. The son was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools. In May, 1864, he enlisted in Company F, One Hundred and Seventieth Regiment Ohio Infantry, and served out his time as one of the one hundred day men, being stationed at Washington City during that time. He then engaged in farming in Belmont county, and in 1866 moved to Mason county, Illinois. Three years later he came to Linn county, Missouri, and purchased the farm where he now resides. In 1874 he returned to Ohio, to regain his failing health, occupying himself there upon his father's farm. In 1880 he came back to his farm in Linn county, and resides there now. This farm, which he owns, comprises one hundred acres, all inside the corporation of the town of Laclede. Mr. Boyd was married October 25, 1866, to Miss Angeline E. Simpson, daughter of William and Elizabeth {nee Burns) Simpson, of Belmont county, Ohio. Her father was a prominent member of the Presbyterian Church, being an elder a number of years. By this union there have been four children: William A., Adelbert S., Anna L., and James McFarTand. Mr. and Mrs, Boyd have been members of the Presbyterian Church for over twenty-six years. He was one of the organizing members of that church at Laclede, and has been one of its most faithful and efficient elders ever since its organization.

John F. Eoyd

Avas born on the Atlantic Ocean, on board the sliip Lagrange, August 20, 1840. When lie was about three jears old his parents were drowned at sea, the ship Lagrange being wrecked in the voyage from Liverpool to New York, April 14, 1843. John F. and his brother, only a babe, were saved. The subject of this sketch was reared by his uncle in Clermont county, Ohio. At the age of fifteen years lie went to Cincinnati and served at the edge-tool trade, with the firm of Cunningham tt Fowler. He remained with them until the breaking out of the war, and, August 14, 1861, enlisted in company A, First Kentucky Cavalry. He was with General Hobson at Knoxville and Perry ville; then with General Burbridge, and later with General Portmer's command, with which he served until the close of the war. He particij^ated in numerous battles and skirmishes. In Stoneman's celebrated raid he was taken prisoner June 3, 1865, in Tennesseej but made his escape the same evening, and the next day had the ^ood fortune to be captured by the Twelfth Ohio Cavalry. In October, 1862, he was married to Miss Hannah J. Sechrest, of Grant county, Kentucky. In 1868 he located in Cass county, Missouri, at Pleasant Hill, where he remained ten years, working at his trade and farming. Mr. Boyd then removed to Laclede, Linn county, where he has since resided, engaged in blacksmithinw and doing an extensive business in making and repairing edge-tools. Mr. and Mrs. Boyd have five children living: Rebecca, John, James, Joseph, and Lee. One child is dead. Mr. Boyd is a jnember of the Masonic order.

Whoktox Rector Barton, .Junior

This gentleman is a native of Linn county, and was here born February 1, 1853. Mr. Barton was reared on the farm, and received his education in the schools of the county, completing his course in the graded schools of Linneus.

At the age of twenty he began clerking in a Brookfield house, and remained one year. In 1874 he went to Cunningham, in Chariton county, and there engaged in the grocery business. He was next engaged in farming, in which he spent five years. H's coming to Laclede for business purposes, was in January, 1880, when he bought an interest in the drug house of Mr. Edward O. Mitchell, in which he is still engaged.

Mr. Barton was married on the twenty-fifth of December, 1876, to Miss Ella McCoy, of Chariton county, Missouri. They have two children, named, respectively, Myrlie and Eddie.

Mr. Barton is one of those successful individuals who make tlieir own way in the world, he having but one dollar and a half when he started out for himself at twenty years of age.

Edward Barton

was born in Linn county, Missouri, February 12, ISil. His f^itber's name was Whorton K., and his motlier's Jane {nee Warren) Wharton/; The latter was born in Howard county, Missouri, in January, 1812. Tiie subject of this sketch received his education at McGee College, Macon, Missouri, and then removed to Howard county, same State. There he was engaged in clerking in a store until 1870, when he went to California, spent the winter, and then located in ^Nevada, where he engaged in ranching and mining. Mr. Barton came back to Linn county, Missouri, in December, 1881, havino- lived about three years alone on a ranch twenty-five miles from any neighbor, and having had some narrow escapes from bands of hostile Indians. In 1861 he enlisted in Company B, Third Missouri Infantry, Confederate States of America. Participated in the battles of Lexington and Pea Kidge, Missouri and luka, Mississipi. Reenlisted in the Second Missouri Infantry, Confederate States of America, in March, 1862; was wounded in the breast by a piece of shell, taken prisoner and kept at Corinth, Mississippi until paroled and sent into the Confederate lines. Was exchanged at Holly Springs, Mississippi in 1863, found his regiment at Grand Gulf, same State, and participated in several important battles. He was inYicksburg during the siege, and present at the surrender. Mr. Barton was permitted to go into the country because of the wound in his breast, and saw very little more service. In July, 1865, he came home to Linn county, where he purchased a farm of two hundred and forty acres, which he lets to a renter.

Henry H. Ben.Tamin

son of Anson and Cornelia {nee Clark) Benjamin, was born in New York City, August 25, 1841. At the age of five years his father died, and the lad went to live with his uncle, remaining with him until sixteen j'ears old. He then came to Dupage county, Illinois, resided there two years, and removed to St. Charles, Illinois, Avhere he spent the summer of 1861, and September 18, of that year, enlisted in Company E, Eighth Illinois Cavalry, and served three years, participating in the battles of Yorktown, Mechanicsville, Williamsburg, Gaines Mill, Malvern Hill, Shepherdstown, Fredericksburg, and many others in Yirginia; and Antietam, Maryland. A long list of important minor engagements in which he took part, are omitted. In the latter part of 1863, Mr, Benjamin was transferred as orderly to General Wilson, in which capacity he served till October, 1S64, when he was mustered out of service at Chicago. After the war Mr. Benjamin went to Russell county. New York, and was employed by Flatten & Co., manufacturers of cotton batting, as foreman, and later as superintendent of the factory until 1869. Coming to Linn county, he purchased the farm where he now resides, to which place he removed in 1871. This fine farm of 200 acres, splendidly improved and cultivated, is the result of the remarkable energy, industry and enterprise displayed hy the subject of this sketch. Mr. Ijenjamin was married July 4, 1860, to Miss Julia H. Howard, a native of Onondaga county, New York. By this union there are five children. Bertha and Beulah, twins; Lilian May, Howard and Jupont. Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin are active and highly regarded menibers of the M. E. Church.

Harrison E. Bigger

son of William and Margaret {nee Thomas) Bigger, was born in Marion county, Kentuck}', February 3, 1812. His parents were both natives of Virginia, and his father was a colonel in the War of 1812. Mr. Bigger grew to manhood in his native county, and received his education in the old log school-house common in those days. He was reared on a farm and followed that calling until 1844, when he removed to Linn county, Missouri, and settled five miles west of Linneus, being one of the earliest pioneers of that section, and somewhat noted as a hunter. He was an expert at killing wild turkeys, but had poor success in shooting deer. After wounding them they generally managed to escape. He had one of the poorest guns in the countv, and his neighbors actually called a meeting and voted to take his gun from him if he did not do better execution with it. Mr. Bigger generally hunted with William Kirby. The latter would kill deer while Mr. B. would keep a keen lookout for snakes, he being always in great dread of rattlesnakes. In 1859, the subject of this sketch removed to his farm of 168 acres, upon which he still resides. In 1865, he was elected judge of the Linn county court, and held that office eight years, with great credit and efficiency. Mr. Bigger has liad three wives. The first time, in 1833, he was married to Miss Lucinda'Crews, daughter of Gideon and Elizabeth Crews, of Marion county, Kentucky, She died in March, 1858. By this union there were five children, two of whom are living, Charles W., a prominent lawyer at Linneus, and Clellen G., the present county surveyor. Mr. B. was married the second time, in 1860, to Mrs. Clarinda Fowler, formerly a Miss Clarinda Gillespie, daughter of John and Rebecca {nee Watson) Gillespie, of West Virginia. She died February 18, 1878. By this union there were four children, all living, and named William H,, Cicero, Socrates, and Fannie F. Mr. B. was again married August 20, 1880, to Mrs. Margaret Brown, formerly a Miss Hardwick, daughter of John and Smily {nee Shrause) Hardwick, who was born and reared in Kentucky.

Cicero C. Bigger

son of Judge Harrison E. and Clarinda (nee Gillespie) Bigger, was bori^ in Linn county, Missouri, August IT, 1855, was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools of his district and also at Laclede. When twenty-one years of age he began teaching school; has taught every winter since and farmed during the snnuner. He owns a well improved farm of eighty acres, and is industrious and popular in both callings. Mr. Bigger was married March 16, 1S81, to Miss Mollie Meanes, daughter of Jacob and Margaret {nee llartsook) Meanes, of Linn county, Missouri, formerly of Ohio. By this marriage there is one child, Berenice.

Leo Bitteker

Mr. Bitteker is the son of Victor and Mary Bitteker, and was born in Switzerland, March 25, 1850. His parents came to America when he was six years old and settled at Clinton, Oneida county. New York, and there Leo grew to manhood. He received his education partly at Clinton and partly at Utica, in the same county. At the age of twelve he beo-an learning the tanner's and currier's trade, at which he worked for some time after he had mastered the art. Still later he learned the carpenter trade and also shoemaking, following the former in summer and the latter in the winter months. Mr. Bitteker came to Missouri in 1868 and worked the lirst seven months at the carpenter's trade in Chillicothe. In the spring of 1869 he bought a farm near Laclede, and followed farming for three years in Linn county. After this he located at Laclede and became engaged in the manufacture of boots and shoes, constantly working several hands. He is also acting as agent for the sale of wagons and farming implements. Mr. Bitteker is a man of steady, temperate habits, endowed with the spirit of industry and perseverance. He has made his own living since he was twelve years old, and has supported his parents since he was sixteen, both of whom now reside at Laclede, the father being seventy-two and th*e mother seventy-three years of age.

This gentleman is a son of Daniel and Catharine Bosworth, and was born in Marietta, Washington county, Ohio, July 17, 1853. He was reared in the city of his nativity, living there till past seventeen, and was educated in the schools of that place. He started in life for himself in his eighteenth year, and began " tiring" an engine on the Marietta & Cincinnati Railroad, remaining one year, when he secured a position on another road and worked three years, two of which he acted as engineer. In 1876 he went on the Iowa Central and ran an engine for nearly two years. He tiien took a trip to Texas in the summer of 1878, and in the following year began " running baggage " on the Burlington branch of the Wabash, and remained one year. The Burlington & Southwestern next enjoyed his services, and in the fall of 1879 he took charge of the round-house at Laclede, and is still engaged in that capacity, and has ever proven himself an energetic and trustworthy man. Mr. Bosworth was married on the ninth day of June, 1880, to Miss Laura Welch, daughter of Judge Welch, of Linn county, formerly of Ohio.

History Of I.Ixn County

The subject of this sketch is a son of George J. and Martha Iliirlbut, and was born in Wayne county, Indiana, on the tirst day of July, 1839. He moved with his parents to Linn county, this State, in May, 1840, and tlie family settled four miles northwest of Linneus, and there built what was known as the Hurlbnt Mill, at that time the principal grist-mill in the county, people coming as far as sixty miles to get their " grinding." John worked in this mill in his early boyhood and attended such schools as the country afforded at that primitive period. He began learning the carpenter's trade at seventeen years old, but his health would not admit of his continuing, so he gave it up after one year's trial and engaged in farming till the outbreak of the civil war. On the eleventh of March, 1862, he enlisted in Company F, of the First Regiment of Missouri State Militia, and i-erved creditably till February 14, 1863, when he was discharged on account of physical disability. In 1864 he took a trip for the benefit of his health to the Rocky Mountains, and spent the summer working at a quartz mill west ol' Denver City. He returned in the fall and located at Laclede, this county, where he has since resided, partly engaged in farming, and some of the time running a meat market. Durinp; the vears 1866 and 1867 he served as constable, and in 1880 was again elected to the same office, and his last term is unexpired at this writing. He has also served as street commissioner and city collector, and gave good satisfaction in all these positions. Mr. Hurlbut was m.arried May 29, 1861, to Miss Louisa James, of Linn county, formerly of Illinois. They have four children, two of whom, William F. and Homer F., are still living.

the subject of this sketch, was born in Greene county, Ohio, September 4, 1838. When but a year old he was taken by his parents to Johnson county, Indiana, wiiere he attended school until he was thirteen years of age. He then went to Wisconsin and resided there till 1861, when he enlisted in Company H, Seventh Wisconsin Infantry. Mr. Brunemer took part in General Rope's Virginia cami)aign, participating in the second bloody battle of Bull Run, August -30, 1862, and in that of Gainsville, August 28,' 1862. At the battle of South Mountain, Maryland, September 14, 1862, Mr. Brunemer was struck in the left leg by a minie ball ; he was then borne from the field and taken to a hospital. There his limb was amputated. After remaining in the hospital several months he was discharged on account of disability, at Frederick City, Maryland, when he went to Grant county, Wisconsin. He served as postmaster there for two years, and subsequently was postmaster during one session of the Wisconsin legislature, in the House of Representatives. In 1867 he came to Missouri and has resided in Linn county since 1868. In 3877 he was appointed postmaster at Laclede, and is still serving in that capacity. He is also engaged in the grocery and newspaper business, having established the Linn County News, a weekly Republican paper, at Laclede, in 188L Mr. Bruneraer, in 1877, was married to Miss Mary Y. Black, in Pickaway county, Ohio. He is a member of the order of Odd Fellows.

The gentleman whose name stands at the head of this sketch is a native of Morgantown, Butler county, Kentucky, and was there born on the eleventh day of January, 1847. His father, now a retired physician of Livingston count}', Missouri, was once prominent in the practice in Kentucky, and is a graduate of Louisville University. Dr. Burk, senior, moved with his family from their Kentucky home and settled in Tazewell county, Hlinois, in 1856. They were living there when the war broke out, and John enlisted in 1864, for defense of the L^nion, in Company D, of the One Hundred and Fifty-second Illinois Infantry, his father being surgeon of that regiment. He served till the close of the war in this regiment and company. In 1865 his parents moved to Spring Hill, Livingston count}', this State, where, in 1866, John began the study of medicine under the direction of his father, and continued for four years. He clerked in a store from 1870 till 1873, and the following year went to Saline county, Kansas, for the purpose of practicing medicine. Being an under-graduate he was not allowed to practice till he had obtained a certificate from the State Board, in conformity with the law jjertaining to that subject. This, however, he had no difficulty in obtaining, and he practiced there four years. In 1878 he went to St. Louis and did clinical practice in the hospitals ot thatcit}', in the mean time attending lectures at the Missouri Medical College. From that institution Dr. Burke graduated in April, 1881, and was awarded his diploma with the degree of M. D. At examination he received prize honors in chemistry, in a class numbering one hundred and twenty-nine.

Dr. Burke was married on February 27th, 1873, to Miss Mary Moss of Livingston county. They have three children, named, respectively, Foster W., Marshall E., and Louis H.

Though still young in years, Dr. Burke has already evinced a love of his calling, and a disposition for close application to his profession, which must place him in the front rank of those of his calling.

George E. Cole

son of Nathan and Ann M. {nee Goble) Cole, was born in Parke county, Indiana, January 19, 1830, where he lived until twenty-two years old, being reared on a farm and educated in the common schools. In 1852, he removed to Lee county, Illinois, and two years later, February 14, was married to Miss Frances Goble, daui^hter of Ezekiel and Margaret (nee Thompson) Goble, of Lee county, Illinois. In 1864 he removed to Taylor county, Iowa, and in 1368 to Linn county, Missouri; in 1870 to Chariton county, Missouri, and in 1876 back to l^inn county, locating on the farm upon which he now lives. Mr. Cole owns a farm of 120 acres of land, has been farming ever since he was twenty-one years old and has raised a crop every year until last year, when he rented his farm out. He has been an active member of the Baptist church for seventeen years. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Cole, live of whom are living: A.ditha Y., Clayton C, Gertrude E., Irwin M. (deceased), Beulah M., and Ezekiel G. Cole.