Perche Township (part 1 of 2)

Topography

Except Thrall's prairie, whicli was but a few miles in extent, Perche was originally covered by a dense growth of timber. Much of this timber-land is still uncleared. Comparatively speaking, the timbered lands of Perche are far in excess of any other township in the county.

There are fine coal mines in the neighborhood of Dripping Springs and on Lick Fork, along the line of the original survey of the Chicago and Alton railroad.

The township is finely watered, springs abounding in almost every neighborhood, and when not found above the surface can be easily reached by digging.

The township is thickly settled, and while not so rich of soil, it possesses many material advantages that render it a most desirable abode to those who have chosen homes within its borders. The southern portion, including Thrall's prairie and the *' Model Farm," is perhaps the finest body of land in the county. The farm, as improved by its late proprietor, was given the premium as the best in the State.

Near the junction of the last named stream with the Callaham is the famous cave known by several names, but originally as '- Connor's." This cave is just over the township line which separates Perche and Missouri, being in the latter township. As it naturally pertains to the section of country known as Perche, with the sobriquet of *- Blackfoot," it will not be amiss to include a description of it in thia township history. It is situated on the northwest quarter of section thirty, township forty-nine, range thirteen. It now bears the name of Holton's cave, having taken the name from George Holton, senior, who owned the land for twenty or thirty years. He died, a few years ago, leaving the property to his son, George Holton, junior, who now occupies the old homestead. The house stands within three hundred yards of this remarkable cave. As the land about this cave was not valuable for agricultural purposes, it remained vacant for many years after the rich valleys and level uplands were entered and occupied. The water-power at last attracted the attention of one of the neighbors, who erected a small grist-mill at the mouth of the cave. A few years later Lewis Connor bought the property and established a large tan-yard, intending to utilize the water-power for grinding tan-bark and for other purposes. When everjrthing was ready it was found the motive power was not sufficient for all purposes. Horse-power was accordingly substituted for grinding the bark, and the business went on for years, and Connor's tan-yard became one of the landmarks of the country. The tan-yard and all the buildings pertaining thereto have disappeared before the ** devouring tooth of time," and only the name and cave remain to remind us of Lewis Connor, whose life of earnest, honest toil deserves never to be forgotten.

The entrance to the cave is from the west. To the right and directly in front there is a perpendicular wall rising above the cave to the height of forty or fifty feet. The wall is very smooth in places, and was formerly covered with rude pictures of animals and birds of all sorts and sizes, being somewhat similar in outline and finish to those found on the river blufl^ below Rocheport. They are now indistinct. The cutting away of timber above has changed the whole face of nature. The turf and moss and loose rocks, that formed an awning above, have fallen away, allowing the rains to beat upon the walls below until scarcely a trace of the pictures remain.

The entrance to the cave is sufficientlv larofe to admit a man on horseback, but the wall overhead varies from four feet to seventy-five or eighty. From right to left the walls are from ten to twenty feet apart. The country traversed by this cave is a high ridge of table land lying between the Perche and Callaham, which at this point are about three miles apart. A large stream flows through the cave from east to west, but the course is very tortuous. This cave has been traversed for several miles. One party, who claims to have measured the distance travelled, reached a point three miles from the mouth.

This is quite probable, but owing to the irregularities of the channel, they doubtless did not reach a point exceeding one mile from the place of starting. The scenery within this cave was formerly of the most novel and brilliant character. Stalactites and stalagmites without number adorned the roof and floor. Some of them were as large as a man's body, as white as snow and smooth of surface as a piece of porcelain. All of the finest specimens have been broken and carried away. About a half mile from the entrance the roof of the cave rises abruptly from the height of five or six feet to seventy-five or eighty feet, perhaps higher, as the dome is lost to view in total darkness. About one-fourth of a mile further on are the chambers, two in number. The outer one is approached by two stalagmites, one lying above the other. In the center of this room is a huge stalactite which meets and unites with a large stalagmite, forming a beautiful column, twelve or fourteen feet in length, reaching from the floor to the ceiling. The inner chamber is approached from the outer through a narrow doorway. This is the most beautiful scene of all. In the center is a natural basin filled with water as clear as crystal, but so strongly impregnated with lime as to be repugnant to the taste. A few -daring individuals have climbed to the dome of this chamber and written their names on the smooth surface overhead.

The full length of this cave, and the extent of scenery within, is unknown, and will probably remain a mystery forever, from the fact that deep water precludes a thorough survey of its wonders. ' There are names and dates upon the walls and roof of this cavern reaching beyond the recollection of the oldest inhabitant. Some of the dates are as far back as 1812. While it is not impossible nor improbable that those names and dates are genuine, they should be considered with many grains of allowance. ,

This is another of the* early landmarks of this section. It is situated on the farm of Joel Hawkins, which is on the northeast quarter of section thirteen, township forty-nine, range fourteen. The salt springs, some fifteen or twenty in number, are on the east side of dallaham's creek, which takes its name from William Callaham, who pitched his tent near those springs several years in advance of the -earliest settlers of this portion of Boone county. Thaearliest emigrants found William Callaham domiciled near the salt springs, and he had been there for years, how long it is not known. In deference to

William Callaham, the salt springs and creek are called by his name. He was, at the time of forming this settlement, in the prime of life, a large, tall, dark-skinn«d man, so dark in fact as to give currency to the belief that he was part Indian. Whether true or false, William Callaham was never heard to contradict the report and it was finally accepted as true. He brought his wife with him to the lick and there they lived and died, both reaching a good old age, living to see their sons and daughters grown up men and women.

Mrs. Callaham had followed her husband in all his wanderings. They stopped first at Loutre Island, at the mouth of the Loutre, ii> Montgomery county. They settled on the island for protection against the Indians. Callaham felled a large tree and with his axe and fire, burned and hewed the trunk into something like the semblance of a boat. When game became scarce on the island he visited the mainland, where, leaving his wife to watch the boat, he would plunge into the dense forest in quest of game. One day he was set upon by a band of Indians. Being alone, he did not dare risk battle, but fled in the direction of his boat. It became a race for life. Callaham was swifbof foot and gained somewhat on his pursuers, but just as he was in the act of jumping into the boat ^- having previously thrown his gun into his wife's lap - a ball from one of the enemy's guns went crashing through his leg. There was but one thing left for the brave pioneer to do - he plunged headlong into the river. Mrs. Callaham seized her husband by the collar and, by main strength, lifted him into the boat and rowed safely to their island home. As soon as he was able to travel, they pushed on further west, following the old Indian trace, intending to go to Boone's Lick, in Howard county, to which point a few families had already ventured. While en route for this place, he discovered the salt springs, on the Callaham, and went no further. He would go off evenings to the lick, and, climbing to the lower branches of a neighboring tree, would wait for his game. After dark, deer, elk and buffalo would come to lick the earth near the springs. Mr. Callaham would then select the game he wished to kill, and send a ball from his trusty rifle into the animal's vitals. Mr. and Mrs. Callaham raised seven sons. When the neighborhood began to fill up with people, Callaham attempted to utilize the salt springs by making salt, but the brine was too weak. East of this lick, about two and a half miles, was another salt spring on the Perche. Callaham, after failing with his salt-works at his own home, moved his boilers to the Perche springs, but with no better success.

Organization

Perche is one of the original or primitive townships of Boone county, having been organized in 1821. At the May term of the county court, for that year, the following order was made relative to the metes and bounds of this township and the name thereof:

-* The fifth township to be denominated Perche. Beginning at the northwest corner of Missouri township, on the old St. Charles road ; thence northeastwardly with the dividing line between the counties of Boone and Howard to the northern boundary of the county ; thence east with the said boundary to the western (boundary) of Rocky Fork township ; thence south with the said boundary to the northeast corner of Missouri township ; thence west with the northern boundary of said township to the point of beginning. And it is ordered that all that section of country lying and [being] north of the said Perche township, and not included in any other county, be, and the same is hereby, attached to and made part of said Perche township."

The Perche, or Roche Perche creek, or river, after which this subdivision of Boone county takes its name, runs through the township from north to south, the course being a little east of south. In addition to the Perche, the township is watered by Silver's Fork, Lick Fork, Reeder's Creek, Prairie Fork, Slack's Branch and the Callaham - mis-spelled, of late years, *« CallahaTf." This stream and the Hinkson are usually mentioned apart from, the parent stream. The other tributaries of the Perche are always spoken of in connection with the main stream. In addition to the Callaham, which heads in Perche township, there is also an important tributary to that stream called Barclay's Fork, which heads in the neighborhood of the **Model Farm," andflows southeast into the Callaham, about four miles above the confluence of that stream with the Perche. This, and Sexton's Branch, are the only tributaries of the Callaham worthy of mention. The name Roche Perche^ or more properly, Roche Perce^ is French, and signifies pierced rock.

Early Settlers

Andrew and David M'Quitty, Parker Sneddigor and Samuel Fulcher, were among the first. In the Kincaid neighborhood were John, Matthew, Lewis, Joseph and William Kincaid, Amos Barnes, Samuel Belcher, John Beeder, after whom Reeder's Creek was named, and Mr. McDaniel. Hugh Silvers settled what is now known as the Slice farm, near Dripping Spring church. He gave his name to Silvers Fork, one of the most beautiful streams in Boone county. From Perchetown north, along the Perche, the first settlers were John Leftler, George Sexton, Wilford Stephens, John, Caleb and James Fenton, William Goslin, Fountain Toalson, David Prowell, Nicholas and Baillett Gentry, Robert and John Barclay, John Corlew,' senior, and John Corlew, junior, Jonathan Graham, John and Thomas Anderson, Bird Wilburn, Aquila Barnes, Presley Wilkinson and John Evans. Robert Schooling setttled the farm now occupied by Daniel Hall, in the neighborhood of Union church. In the neighborhood of Perche meeting house were Sinclair Walden, George Lawrence, Elder White and Eli Lyon. In the Everett neighborhood: Joshua and Jonathan Barton, first cousins of Senator David Barton. In the Wilbite neighborhood : Paris Ellison, Ben Ferguson, Thomas and Berry Workham. Among the early settlers must not be omitted the names of Capt. Woodruff and Lemuel Searcy, Henry and Allen Coats, Solomon Mordecai, Thomas Croswhite, Thomas Wingo, Enoch C. Orear, John Connelly, Lemuel Batterton, James Hawkins, Zachariah Jackson, Isom Kilgore, Smith Turner and William McCarty. Jesse Dale was a pioneer preacher of the Old School Baptist church. Henry Cave and Isaac Newman were pioneer teachers. One of the first children born in the county must be accredited to Perche township. India Ann Corlew, daughter of John Corlew, junior, was born March 1st, 1818. .She was the first female child born in Perche township. The first male child born in the township is believed to have been Mastin Corlew, son of John Corlew, junior, born February 11th, 1821. A biographical sketch of Mr. Corlew may be found elsewhere in this volume.

The first marriage known to have taken place in the township was that of Philip Barnes and Jane Corlew. The ceremony was performed by Esq. John Slack, November 11th, 1823.

among the first sherifts of Boone county. Ho was also a teacher. He lived to a good old age, loved and respected by all who knew him. It is stated that Revs. A. P. Mussett and Matthias Barron were the first Cumberland Presbyterian ministers in Perche. Revr William Douglass was the first Methodist, and Elders John C. McCuue and William Patton the first Disciples.

The first school house in Perche township was built on section thirty-five, township fifty, range thirteen, and William Corlew taught the first school therein.

John Slack was the first justice of the peace for Perche township. He was the father of Gen. William Y. Slack, of the Confederate army, killed at the battle of Pea Ridge, Arkansas, March 6th, 1862. Squire Slack was a potter by trade. He had been one of the justices of the peace in Moniteau township, Howard county, out of which territory Perche was created, and he was continued in office by order of the Boone county court. Samuel Beatie was the first constable, receiving his appointment from the county court.

Manslaughter

It is said that the first case of manslaughter in Boone county occurred at Perchetown, in which Daniel Coil was the victim and Amos Barnes the individual who struck the fatal blow. A party had gathered at the village store and were drinking pretty freely, and at the same time discussing a chase in which a number of them had participated. Coil possessed a well-trained pack of hounds of which he was very proud. A disparaging remark from Barnes, relative to his dogs, was met by a blow in the face from Coil's heavy wool hat, which caused the blood to flow in a stream from Barnes' nose. Coil, evidently, did not mean to hurt Barnes, but the blow proved a severe one, and aroused his fiercest indignation. Barnes sprang to his feet, and clenching his fist, struck Coil a fierce blow in the stomach, killing him almost instantly. Barnes surrendered himself, was tried and acquitted, it being evident that the murder was wholly unintentional.

Thirty years ago the good people of Perche, a portion of Missouri, Bocky Fork and Bourbon, resented the sobriquet of -* Blackfoot " as a slur at their section of the county, but happily for the impartial historian, whose duty it is to deal in facts, they have not only become reconciled to the inevitable appellation, but glory in the name. There are three or four traditions relative to the origia of the name «* Blackfoot." Gen. S. B. Hatton, the oldest citizen living in that section, says the name originated at Perchetown, and grew out of a general fight, in which nearly all the male members of that community participated. The victorious party raised the war-whoop, declaring that they were the ** Blackfoot tribe, from the headwaters of the Perche.*' The name was remembered, as ^well as the sore heads inflicted upon the defeated party. One side applied the term in a boasting spirit, the other as an epithet, and between the two factions the name was fixed upon that region of the country for all time to come. Another tradition attributes the origin of the name^to a dance which occurred in the Schooling neighborhood, where the boys and girls danced barefoToted, and bantered each other on the comparative blackness of their pedal extremities. Gen. S. B. Hatton was the first man to call public attention to the name, having many years ago published the following announcement in the Columbia Statesman: *' We are authorized to announce Gen. S. B. Hatton, of Blackfoot, a candidate for the office of judge of the Boone county court at the ensuing August election." Notwithstanding the fact that he had previously represented the county in the legislature, and was personally very popular, this announcement caused his defeat by six votes. His enemies had tickets printed for Perche township headed ** Blackfoot," and represented them to be Hatton's tickets, declaring with affected indignation, that they would not vote for a man who would thus wantonly perpetrate a slur upon his neighbors. It had the desired efiect ; the general's opponent was elected by six majority.

Perchetown, or ** the town of Persia," as it is spelled in the record of deeds in the clerk's office, gave promise at one time of becoming a place of considerably importance. The town was laid oft' and a very comprehensive map made and entered into the record of deeds, April 2, 1821, but the entering is made in the name of the corporation, without mention of the individuals composing the corporation. The record shows that John Lefler sold to the corporation of the town of " Persia," nine and one-ninth acres of land in section eight, township forty-nine and range thirteen, for which he received ninety-one dollars

»nd fifty cents. Of same date, Obadiah Babbitt sold to same parties, Sfby-eight acres, both tracts being within the limits of the town, as Aown by the map which is entered of record. It was on both sides oif the Perche, situated at the point where the old Boone's Lick road, connecting St. Charles and Old Franklin, in Howard county, crossed that stream. Babbitt and Ludlow threw a dam across the stream and erected a saw mill. Several shops were built, among others, a cabinet shop, by Lemuel Batterton, and a store of general merchandise was opened for the accommodation of the local trade. Perchetown was much talked of and much visited by the rural population. Whiskey was cheap and plentiful, and the village became famous for its fights, horse-races, shooting matches, indeed, for many things, except that substantial growth which its founders had vainly hoped to realizfe. About the year 1825, Wilfred Stephens, of Kentucky, the father of Benjamin Stephens, of this county, came to Perchetown and opened a store. George Sexton had also settled in the near vicinity of the place. He had the contract for several thousand miles of mail routes. Upon the main lines he ran stages and hacks, and the amount of rolling stock necessary to carry on his business was immense. He built carriage and repair shops, harness shops, stables, sheds and granaries, giving a wonderful impetus to this primitive town and the surrounding country, but with the expiration of the mail contract and the removal of the Sextons, and the washing away of the mill, commenced the decay of Perchetown, and now not a vestige of the pretentious village remains. Strange as it may seem, the neighborhood of this town contained a third more people a half century ago than it does to-day.

Harrisburg, situated on the northwest quarter of section 11, township 50, range 14, in the northwest corner of the township, was named in honor of John W. Harris, deceased, late proprietor of the Model Farm. It was laid off soon after the survey of the Chicago and Alton railroad, and gave promise of soon becoming a town of considerable importance. Work was actively going on all along the line of the proposed railroad, which was actually graded and made ready for the mils. The town prospered in anticipation of the early completion of the road ; but, to the surprise and disappointment of the people of Harrisburg and Perche township, the road was suddenly abandoned^ but afterwards completed on a line farther north. This proved almost a death-blow to the ambitious hopes of Harrisburg. With better facilities this village would have been a place of no little importance. It is beautifully located on the divide between the Perche and the Moniteau, six miles north of the Model Farm, on the main road leading from Eocheport to Sturgeon. The Callaham, which flows into tie Perche, heads in this vicinity. Prairie Fork, named from Thrairs prairie, also heads in this vicinity, and flows west into the Moniteau. Harrisburg contains three stores, a confectionery shop, church, mill, blacksmith and repair shop, a fine public school building, with Masonic hall above. Dr. Haller, a practicing physician, Hersman, a justice of the peace, and S. O. Puller, constable, reside in the village. The post-oflSce is in Gentry's saddler-shop. Rev. Green Carey, of rfear Harrisburg, came to the neighborhood in 1834, and had preached for the i^eople since 1836. He was a member of the first church organized in this portion of the county, Bethlehem by name, which he served for thirty-one years. He has joined in marriage more than five hundred couples. Revs. Thomas Fristoe, Fielding Wilhite and Green <Jarey dedicated the last Bethlehem church building.

Everett

This little hamletr, now almost extinct, is situated on section 2, township 49, range 14. It was laid out in the year 1860 by Charles Sexton, a sou of George Sexton, already mentioned in connection with Perchetown. Charles Sexton was to Everett what his father had previously been to Perchetown - the leading spirit in the enterprise - and but for the war he would have given such an impetus to the place as would probably have secured its future growth and prosperity. In partnership with McKinney and others, he established an extensive plow factory, raiinufacturing the ** Peeler plows." Parks started a large tobacco factory, and Dr. Dynes opened a store. There was also a planing machine for dressing lumber. The Methodist denomination erected a nice church edifice, and, in addition to improvements already mentioned, there were over a dozen private residences. Dr. John W. Roberts was the resident physician ; Dr. J. M. Shock lived near by. The surrounding country was very rich and productive, and the little town sprung into existence with the brightest hopes of future prosperity. It now contains a mill and carding machine, owned by Wilson Nicholson ; a blacksmith shop, public school building, and church.

Everett Church

This church is situated on a lot coutaining five acres, the property -of the Methodist denomination, having been deeded to them for church purposes. The cturch was organized September 2, 1859. The church edifice, a frame building, was erected in 1860, at a cost of $1,500 .^ It was dedicated by Dr. Mc Anally, of St. Louis, May 12, 1860. Since its dedication the church has been served by E. H. Jordan, J. S. Smith, Tyson Dynes, T. J. Starr, D. R. Shackleford, B. F. Johnson, James Pritchett, William Rush, T. Ellington, R. White and W. Penn. The 7)resent membership is sixty-five. When this church was first organized, meetings were held at the residence of J. A. Points. The first quarterly meeting was held at his house, December 11, 1852, E. M. Marvin, presiding elder, Walter Toole, circuit rider. The official members were John W. Denny, J. A. Points, Matthew Richards, John W. Walton, Thomas Wright and John Reed.

Dripping Spring

The hamlet and post-office known as Dripping Spring is on the southwest quarter of section 27, township 50, range 13, and is situated about twelve miles northwest of Columbia. It derives its name from a spring near by that drips from the rocks into a large branch which empties into Silver's Fork of Perche creek, about fifty rods from the spring. There are several mineral springs in the neighborhood, said to possess medicinal virtues. It is alleged that some cases of rheumatism and kindred diseases have been cured by the free use of these ^waters.

The place contains a store and post-office. The latter was established June 13, 1873, and Col. Garnett Duncan commissioned postmaster. He died in January, 1880, and Februaiy 13th following Dr. John H. Stover was appointed, and still holds the position. Mail semi-weekly from Columbia. There is also near by a handsome church building, with cemetery grounds adjoining, the site being on a rolling elevation, neatly enclosed and ornamented with evergreens, flowers and shade trees. The church is controlled by the Christians. There are two flourishing public schools in the vicinity, with good frame houses, well furnished. It is stated that in these schools, with some assistance from the University, there have been fitted for the ministry four young men, and for the medical profession six others. Two of the latter returned to the neighborhood after receiving their

The Methodist Church South has an organization of some sixty members, but as yet no church building. They wqrship at an arbor at a point called Red Rock, two miles noithwest of Dripping Spring. In the winter they meet at Prowell's school-house near by. They have considerable money and material subscribed for building a church and the day is probably not far distant when they will be able to worship under their own vine and fig tree.

Christian Church

The Dripping Spring Christian church is situated on section 34^ township 50, range 13. It was organized in 1858, by Elder John O. White. Some of the original members were John O. White, Jemima White, James and Paulina IJoffman, Wm. and Mahala Evans, James and Susan Kelly, Thomas, Paulina, Mary J., and A. C. Robinson^ Sarah A. Corlew, Miriam Brink, Polly March, Isaac Oliver, Amanda Akeman, Caleb Davis, R. J. and Elizabeth Wade and about thirty others. The first church building, a frame, was built in 1860. The building committee was Wra. Evans, David Prowell, Sr., and Samuel Copher. It was remodeled in 1881. The total cost of the building was about $1,200. It was dedicated June 26, 1860, by Elder John O. White. The pastors of this church have been Elder White, Stephen A» Bush, Hockensmith, J. T. Burnham, the latter the present pastor. Elders Bedford, Chrismau, Cake and Hoffman have labored in the church at different times and to them, in part, belongs the honor of the upbuilding of the church to its present proportions. The number of members on the roll is about 150.

About three miles northwest of Dripping Spring is a country village called Ammon. A steam saw-mill was the principal impetus to the growth of this hamlet, which contains some twelve or fifteen houses. A vast amount of lumber was manufactured at these mills and shipped to all parts of the country. Since the removal of the mill, a few years ago, the place has ceased to be a point of interest and importance to the community in which it is situated.

Germantown

liud off in 1858, by Schultz & Fretter, two enterprising Germans. They erected a large, substantial store building which they filled from cellar to garret with all kinds of merchandise. In addition to the store they erected a large two-story warehouse. They bought all kinds of produce in exchange for goods and soon established a flourishing trade. ^' Boss " Forche kept a saloon and lunch house. There were some six or eight buildings in all, including a shoe shop. The town was burned during the war and was never rebuilt.

Woodlandville is situated in section 5, township 49, range 13, being the southwest portion of Perche township. It is in that region of country known as the Thrall's prairie district. There is but one store and a blacksmith shop. The post-office is kept at the store. A great deal of business is transacted by W. B. Campbell, proprietor of the store, who keeps a general assortment of dry goods, groceries and notions, and exchanges goods for produce.

Incidents Of The Civil War Fights And Skirmishes

The desperate fight between George Todd's and John Thrailkill's Confederate guerrillas and Capt. McFadden's Federal train, in Gosline's lane, September 23, 1864, is fully described in the general history.

The fight between Capt. Cook's Ninth M. S. M. and Jim Carter's bushwhackers in February, 1865, is also noted elsewhere. It may be added that after the fight and dispersion of the bushwhackers, one of them made his way to the house of a lady in **Blackfoot," and by her was put to bed, arrayed in a white garment and passed off upon a troop of pursuing militia as the lady's sister, whom it would be cruel to disturb, as ** her " baby was but three days old I

The fight at Dripping Spring between the Federals and Holtzclaw's, Frost's and Todd's commands, September 16, 1864, is also narrated elsewhere. During the fight a Federal soldier named James Canada, belonging to Company H, Seventeenth Illinois cavalry, accidentally shot himself while in Col. Garnett Duncan's watermelon patch. The shot proved fatal.

Killing Of Mr. Drake

^ About the Ist of September, 1864, a man uatned Drake, who had recently come into the township from Sullivan county, was shot from the bush as he was passing along the road. Eight buckshot entered hfs body. The bushwhackers who did the deed gave information at a house near by that the dead body might be cared for.

Guerrilla Diabolism

In 1864 some guerrillas killed a Federal soldier in the *^ Blaokfoot" country, cut off his head, passed a piece of bark through the mouth and throat and tied it to one of the saddles. The guerrillas rode for some time thus bearing their horrible trophy, but at last grew tired of it and threw it away by the roadside. Dr. Davis, of Sturgeon^ now has the skull in his possession.

Killing Of William Buman8

In the fall of 1864 Major Jacob Pugh, of the Fiftieth regiment, Enrolled Missouri militia, from Knox county, Missouri, made a raid through Boone county. On coming in sight of the residence of William Rumans, who lived in the neighborhood of Dripping Spring, three bushwhackers, Mat. Evans, 3am Rowland and Abe Rumans, the latter a son of William Rumans, were seen to hurriedly leave the place. The Federals pursued them and shot Rowland through the body, but he escaped and afterwards recovered. The Federals returned and burned Rumans' house, and, placing him upon an old, jaded horse, started in the direction of Columbia. The horse soon gave out, and Rumans was made to run in front of his captors, who spurred their horses on to him, wounding his feet and legs with the shod hoofs of their horses. On reaching a point about four miles north of Columbia Rumans gave out and was shot to death by his captors. In connection with this incident it is worthy of note that Maj. Pugh was afterwards dishonorably discharged from the Federal service. Joseph Graves, of Perche township, was also killed by this command about the same time, and under circumstances not less revolting to humanity and justice.

Two Men Hung

armed ** rebels " at the house when they came iu. The Federals were taken into the woods and huncr. The men who committed this act are said to have been a portion of Capt. Farley's command..

Shooting Op Batey

In 1863 a scouting party captured a half-witted Englishman named Batey, at Kincaid's mill. He was armed, and frankly admitted that he had been with the ''rebels." His associations had been such that he knew nothing of the war save what he had seen and heard of it in his own neighborhood, and had been led into the struggle wholly from a , sense of duty. Without the least investigation he was shot dead.

In the early part of 1865 four men, supposed to be bushwhackers, visited the house of Mr. William Dimmitt, who lives near Everett, for the purpose of robbing him, as he was known to have received a sum of money the day before in payment of some corn sold by him. The robbers came at night, and, being refused admittance, broke the door down with a rail taken from the fence. Mr. Dimmitt, being a man of courage, resolved not to submit to the 'demands of the thieves without resistance. After breaking down the door one of the robbers entered the room, firing as he advanced. Dimmitt returned the fire, wounding one of the robbers in the side. Another of the party was wounded in the head by a pistol shot fired from a comrade's pistol. The firing was sharp on both sides, but without fatal results to any one. A member of Mr. Dimmitt' s family was slightly wounded in the melee, but he came out of the fight without a scratch, saving his money and vanquishing the enemy, though out-numbered four to one. The parties making the raid were unknown to Mr. Dimmitt, but the motive for making the assault was quite evident.

Matthew Barnes

Matthew Barnes, the subject of this sketch, is probably entitled to the distinction of being the oldest natural-born citizen of either Boone or Howard counties. He is the son of Amos and Dorcas (Kincaid) Barnes, and was born in Kincaid's Fort, June 5, 1813. He was the first-born of a family of eight children. His father and mother were married in the fort by Rev. John Tharp, a Methodist minister^ who had cast his fortunes with this little pioneer band. -Mrs. Barnes was the daughter of David Kincaid, after whom the fort was named. Theirs was the first marriage solemnized in the fort. Amos Barnes was a native of Madison county, Kentucky. Mrs. Barnes was also a native of Kentucky. Amos Barnes died in 1834, but his wife survived him for many years, having lived until near the close of the late civil war. Matthew Barnes has spent his life in Boone county. He is now living on a small farm in the northwest corner of Perche township. He was married, December 14^ 1834, to Miss Jane, daughter of Benjamin Sanderson. They have had nine children, seven of whom are livings one daughter and six sons. All but one are living in Boone.

William Edward Blakemore

The Blakemores are of English origin. From England to Virginia, from Virginia to Kentucky, and thence westward. William Edward Blakemore is a grandson of James Blakemore, of Virginia, and a son of Wm. G. Blakemore, also a native of that State. He was born in Clark county, Kentucky, March 12th, 1837. He lived on the farm until he was sixteen years old, then entered a store, remaining in this business for six years. Quitting the store at the age of twenty-two, he embarked in the live stock trade which he followed for nine years. In 1853 he again entered the mercantile business, but once more abandoned the store to engage in the stock trade, this time dealing in mules and horses for the Southern market. He came to Missouri in November, 1865, and settled on the '*oldWiggam farm," in the vicinity of Harrisburg, where he remained till 1875. In 1880 he came to Harrisburg and engaged in the mercantile business with John W. Hersman. Mr. Blakemore was married to Miss Nancy J. Doyle, daughter of Dennis Doyle. By this marriage they have had eight children, six sons and two daughters, one of whom died in infancy. Their names are: Mary V., George W., Dennis A., Richard E., Sarah E., Claudius P., Thomas C, and Shelton L. They are members of the Christian Church at Harrisburg.

Thomas H. Blakemore

Mr. Blakemore, like many of our substantial citizens, is a native of Kentucky. It has been said that Virginia is the mother of Kentucky. With the same propriety it may be said that Kentucky is the mother of Missouri. Mr. Blakemore was born in Shelby county, January

^th, 1828. His father was a Kentuckian, his grandfather a native of Virginia. His mother was a daughter of Sanford Payne, of Kentucky. Mr. Blakemore was educated in the common schools of his native State and assumed the active duties of life at an early age. His father died when he was but seven years old, and being the second son of a family of six children, five sons and one daughter, he had, ^ven in boyhood, many of the cares and responsibilities of manhood resting upon him. He commenced active business at the age of fourteen. From clerking in a store he soon passed to the more active duties of a stock trader, buying in Kentucky and selling in Cincinnati. He followed this business very successfully for fifteen years. In 1863 he removed to Boone county, Missouri, having purchased part of the Newton Short farm and the Harris interest in the town of Harrisburg. Mr. Blakemore was married November 15th, 1864, to Miss Ruth Young, daughter of David Young, of Howard county, Missouri. Mrs. Blakemore was born January 27th, 1836. ^ Her grandfather was Major Edward Young, of Boone county. By this union are five children, three daughters and two sons, all of whom are now living. Their names are: Cordelia A., Robert L., James N., Nora and Edna. Mr. Blakemore was previously iparried in Kentucky to Miss Marion Oldham, daughter of Wm. Oldham, of Madison ijounty. There was one child, John, by this marriage. He is now maiTied and is living in Howard county, Missouri. His wife's maiden name was Stacia Gillum, daughter of Nathan Gillum. In 1880 Thomas Blakemore removed to his property in Harrisburg, but did not remain in business there but eighteen months. He is now on his farm looking after his fine stock. He is largely interested in the Glenco stock of horses, noted for their speed and other excellent qualities. Mr. Blakemore and his family are members of the Christian church at Harrisburg, and are highly honored and respected for their liberal support of all public enterprises calculated to benefit the -community in which they reside.

James J. Boyce

The Boyce family are of Irish descent. The paternal grandfather, Robert, was a native of Ireland. The subject of this sketch is the son of Willis P. Boyce and was born in Warren county, Kentucky, June 15, 1819. James was brought to Missouri wlien but three months old. He was the youngest of seven children, four sons and three daughters. Willis Boyce was a member of the first grand jury ever empanelled in Boone county. The court was held under a tree. June 20, 1839, Mr. Boyce was married to Eliza Orear, daughter of E. C. Orear, a native of Fleming county, Kentucky.- Eleven children were born of this union, four sons and seven daughters, ten of whom are alive at this writing. Their names are Margaret J., Annie L., Rose, Elizabeth, Joseph E., Laura* A., Benella, Willis L., Jerrie and George H. Margaret is the wife of George W. March. They have had five children. Rose married Wallace Maxwell. Joseph E. married Katie Keith. The father of Mr. Boyce entered land as early as 1819. The place he entered, 170 acres, has changed owners some six or seven times, finally passing into the hands of Mr. James Boyce, who is in possession at this writing. He is a member of the Baptist church, and has been a communicant for forty years. Has followed farming for thirty years. In early manhood was a blacksmith, which trade he followed for eight years. During the excitement growing out of the discovery of gold in California, Mr. Boyce crossed the plains, but did not remain in the mines but a few months. He returned to Boone county in 1850, and has remained quietly on his farm ever since. Mrs. James Boyce is of French origin. She was one of a family of four children. Her sister, Annie T., married Harland Sexton, of Boone county. Her brother, J. B. Orear, is in business at Hubbard City, Texas. Another brother, Benjamin, went to California in 1849. He became a prominent citizen of that State^ servino^ several terms in the leorislature. He was laro^elv interested in mining, and while looking after his interests in New Mexico, in 1873, was taken ill and died. He had won considerable distinction in public life, and his death was universally deplored by all who knew him.

James Bradley

James Bradley was born in Fayette county, Kentucky, October 11, 1810. His father, Terry, was the son of Leonard Bradley, a revolutionary soldier. His great grandfather, on the mother's side, was Samuel Boone, one of the noted Boone family, famous in the early history of Kentucky. Mr. Bradley came to Missouri in 1824, and settled in the neighborhood of Huntsville, but prior to the location of that city. Leaving this settlement, he went to Fayette, Howard county, where he remained twenty years. From Fayette he removed to Benton county, Missouri, where he remained three years, returning to Howard county, and from thence to Boone county in 1853, where he has permanently resided. Mr. Bradley was married to

Zerelda Gibson, daughter of Martin Gibson, of Howard county, Missouri. By this union they have been blessed with eight children, seven of whom are living. Mr. Bradley is a carpenter and cabinet maker, which occupation he has followed all his life. He has been a member of the Baptist church for forty years. His family are also members of the same denomination. Mr. Bradley has several daughters who rank very highly as teachers. Miss Bettie, of the Pike County Institute, has achieved a fine reputation in the common schools of that county. Mr. James W. Bradley, third son of the elder Bradley, was born July 4, 1855, and was educated partly in Howard county, finishing his studies at the State University. In 1874 he went to Texas, but did not remain there but one year. Returning to Boone county, he married Miss Eva A. Fenton, daughter of Joshua Fenton. In 1880 he commenced the culture of honev on a large scale. He bought the large apiary owned by Dr. G. S. Morse, of Columbia, which- he added to his own collection. Last year (1881) was one of the hardest seasons on bees, yqt the yield of Mr. Bradley's apiary was 1,800 pounds. The year previous the yield was 2,500 pounds. He is thoroughly posted in the business, is never troubled with moth and seldom loses a colonv, notwithstanding others, less skilled in the business, frequently lose all their stock in one season. This illustrates the difierence between a professional and a novice. Mr. Bradley is thoroughly read on the subject, and takes great pride in the business.

Eld. Jackson T. Burnham

Elder Bumham was born in Howard county, Missouri, December 6, 1831. His father, D. S., was the son of Henry Burnham, a native of North Carolina, who emigrated to Kentucky. This Henry Burnham was the son of John, the first member of the family born in the United States. His father came from England. The family is supposed to be of German origin, as the former spelling of the name would indicate. The second syllable was originally '^spelled **h-e-i-m." Some of the familv still discard the letter *' h." The Burnhams are represented in the States of Kentucky, North Carolina, New York, Texas and Missouri. Elder Burnham was educated at the common schools of Howard county, and at Fayette, where he attended three sessions, completing hi? studies at the State University. He followed teaching until 1860, when he was chosen clerk of the Sturgeon court of common pleas, which position he held for four years. He was married February 5, 1861, to Mrs. Henrietta J. Hill, widow of Fran- CIS M. Hill, and daughter of John Parker, of Illinois. They ha?e had six children, three sons and three daughters, two of whom, Sobert H. and Julia, are dead. The sumving children are Wesley P., John M., Nannie and Emma D. Mr. Burnham united with the Christian church at the age of eighteen, and was licensed to preach in 1879. He has been pastor of Dripping Springs church. He owns a farm of 160 acres, and divides his time and attention about equally between farming and teaching. He is a useful citizen, upright and faithful in the discharge of duty, kind and accommodating as a neighbor, and earnest and zealous in the school room and pulpit.

William H. Coohran

William H. Cochran is of a family of successful farmers - men of excellent judgment, firm, self-reliant and practical ; farmers^ not from necessity, but from a natural love of the business. The subject of this sketch was born on Independence Day, 1847. He is the son of Robert Cochran, deceased, a native of South Carolina. The elder Cochran was a soldier in the war of 1812. He came to Boone county in 1821. He died when his son was but twelve years old. There were five other children, three boys and two girls, all younger than William. His boyhood was spent under circumstances that did not admit of his getting more than a limited common school education, but he applied himself diligently to reading and in the course of time acquired a large store of useful information. He reads the papers with much interest and keeps thoroughly posted on all the stirring events of the period. He is, politically, an earnest and consistent Democrat. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M. He has 200 acres of fine grass land, not a foot of which is ever disturbed by the plow. There is neither plowing nor sowing on his farm. He deals exclusively in live stock, buying, grazing and selling. He has been very successful in the cattle and hog trade. His farm is well watered. There is one well on the place which measures 225 feet in depth. Mr. Cochran is a bachelor of the best type, a kind, genial companion, a good neighbor and useful citizen.

Abram H. Conley

Abrani H. Conley, farmer, capitalist and trader, was born in Boone county, Missouri, June 9, 1838. He is the son of John and Belila {Weldon) Conley. He was raised on the farm and educated at the public schools, completing his studies at the Missouri Stite University. In 1861 he enlisted in the Confederate service, joining Company B, Major's Battalion, Harvey McKinney (afterwards colonel, killed at Champion Hill, back of Vicksburg) being his captain. When the company was regularly organized, he was elected second lieutenant. Company B was composed of sharpshooters. Ho served for six months in the old Missouri State Guard. He then joined Col. Searcy's Battalion, and was chosen first lieutenant of Company D, commanded by Capt. Berry Owens, which position he held until the close of the war. In the captain's absence the company was commanded by Mr. Conley. He was at the battle of Lexington, and was with Bill Anderson when the latter was killed, near the mouth of Fishing river in Ray county, Missouri, some ten miles southwest of Richmond. He had command of twenty men on this memorable occasion, which he was taking through to Price's army. The next fight was at Gasconade river, followed by a severe engagement in Wright county, nine miles east of Hartsville. There about three hundred Federals and an equal number of Confederates engaged. The Confederates were forced into the fight, but the Federals had cause to regret their rashness. The Confederate lost considerably less than the Federals, and were allowed to continue their march unmolested. They reached Price's army, on Red river, without further fighting. During the first winter of the war, Mr. Conley was taken prisoner at Rocky Fork bridge, on the Blackfoot rock road, and was held at Centralia and Sturgeon by Gen. Prentiss. Was kept a prisoner for two weeks, when he was paroled. Was also captured at Lexington ^ but wad soon released. He surrendered at Shreveport under Col. Charles S. Mitchell, now of Houston, Texas, formerly of Saline county, Missouri. Since the war he has followed farming and trading. At one time he owned the Model Farm of 400 acres, which he sold to Warren A. Smith, September 1, 1881. In 1872 he was elected public administrator, but resigned. He is a member of the Masonic order*

Capt. Mastin G. Corlew

The Subject of this biography is of French-Huguenot extraction, his paternal great-grandfather having fled from France after the revocation of the edict of Nantes. He settled in South Carolina and from him the Corlews, now a numerous family, trace their origin. Capt. Corlew was born in Boone county, Missouri, February 11, 1821. He is the son of John Corlew, Jr., who came to Missouri with his father iu 1817»and settled on the southeast quarter of section three, townghip forty-nine. John Corlew, Jr., was a soldier in the war of 1812, and served under Gen. Jackson. He was for many years -constable of Perche township. He also served the people in the capacity of a justice of the peace. He was a public spirited man and took a deep interest in education. He was a strict member of the Primitive Baptist church. He died August 7, 1848, and was buried at the old Rocky Fork church. Capt. Corlew's mother's name, before marriage, was <jore. In his boyhood, the captain had few opportunities for procuring an education, having attended school but nine months all told. He was married in 1853 to Miss Sarah Cox. By this union seven children were born, four sons and three daughters. Their names are John L., Deborah E., Wra. O., Sterling P., Magdalena and Andrew J. Deborah married Silas S. Davenport. They have four children. William O. married Jennie Boyce. Capt. Corlew spent four years in California, from 1849 to 1853, mining for gold. At the breaking out of the late civil wais he took sides with the South, serving as captain under Gen. John B. Clark. He was in some hotly contested battles. Among others, Lexington^ Drywood and Moore's Mill. Surrendered at Shreveport in 1865. He was appointed a justice of the peace in 1872, and has held that office ever since. His eldest son, John L., is a successful teacher in the public schools of Boone county. Capt. Corlew is an official member of the Christian church at Dripping Spring. In politics he is a straightout Democrat. He is very earnest in his convictions and jealous in the discharge of duty. The county of Boone can boast no better citizen than Capt. Corlew, and his township no truer type of honest, conscientious manhood.

Dr. William R. Cowden, a reliable, competent and enterprising young physician, of Perche township, was born in Boone county, Missouri, November 7th, 1849. He is the son of Hezekiah, a well-todo farmer of Perche township, who came to Missouri in 1837. The father of Hezekiah was Joseph Cowden, an Irishman. Hezekiah married Miss Elizabeth Inglehart, daughter of George J., only son of George Inglehart, a native of Germany, who came here during the revolutionary war as a soldier under Lord Cornwallis. Dr. William R. Cowden is one of nine children: James E., George W., Joseph, Alexander, Florenza, Margaret C, John N. and Mary. The father of Dr. Cowden died at the age of fifty-two. He was a zealous mem- ber of the Methodist church, SL\\d lived a'pious, godly life. The subject of this sketch was educated at the common schools of the country. Afterwards studied medicine under Dr. J. M. Shock, of Everett, whose biography appears elsewhere in this volume. He then attended the lectures at the Medical College of Virginia. He entered college in 1874. After graduating from this institution he took a course of lectures at the Bellevue Hospital and Medical College, taking his degree from this institution in 1876. He was married in 1876 to Miss £mma J., daughter of JohnBennett, of l^ichmond, Virginia. They have three children, Virginia, Willie M. and Etta Lee. The doctor is a member of the Christian church. He has a fine practice, and is universally esteemed by all who know him. He has accumulated considerable property and all his surroundings are of the most pleasant and encouraging nature.

Geo. W. Denham

Geo. W. Denham, son of Samuel Denham, a native of Madison county, Kentucky, was born in Boone county, Missouri, November 11th, 1849. His father was an energetic, prosperous farmer, and the son has followed the same avocation, and with like success. Mr. Denham was educated at the common schools, but pursued his studies to better purpose than most young men of like opportunities. Preparing himself for a teacher he engaged in that business and. was quite successful. In 1872 he settled on a farm near Midway where he remained until 1877 when he purchased the Stephen Wilhite farm, consisting of 300 acres, where he now resides. He was married in 1872, to Miss Stevie S. Wilhite, daughter of Hon W. R. Wilhite*. One child was born to them, a son, whom they called Emmett. Mrs. Denham died in 1874. The child died at the age of eleven months. Mr. Denham is director of his school district and an official member of the Baptist church at Walnut Grove. He is also superintendent of the Sunday school, which he has labored long and zealously to build up. He is an earnest, devoted Christian, upright and faithful in every position of life.

William T. Dimmitt

Was one of a family of ten children, all of whom lived to be fathers And mothers of families. Joshua Dimmitt, the father of William, was the son of Richard Dimmitt, a native of Maryland. The subject of this sketch was born in Bourbon county, Kentucky, April 26th, 1817.

He moved with his parents to Indiana, where he resided for sixteeo years. He returned to Kentucky and married Miss Harriet Talbott, who died in about one year after the marriage. His second wife was Miss Margaret M. Long, daughter of Judge T. A. Long. There were eight children born of this marriage, four daughters and four sons. One son died in infancy. Rev. Thomas F. Dimraittis a minister of the M. E. Church South. He is now a member of one of the Texas conferences. Sarah E. married Louis Hoffman, county attorney for Gasconade county, Missouri. George W. is in the lumber business at Lathrop, Clinton county, Missouri. Harriet married Alexander M. Cochran, of Clinton county. One son and two daughters are still with their parents. When Mr. Dimmitt came to Boone county, in 1861, his position was rather unpleasant owing to the bitter feelings growing out of the war. His neighbors were intensely Southern in sentiment and slow to believe that people coming from a Northern State could be other than Union sympathizers, and to that extent enemies of the South. Their disappointment, to say the least, was most pleasurable. The Dimmitts werQ Methodists and in hearty accord with their brethren. The parents of Mrs. Dimmitt are still living Her father is eighty-seven, her mother eighty-four. They have been living as man and wife for sixty-three years.

Joshua Fenton

Joshua Fenton was born in Boone county, Missouri, September 30th, 1826. He is the son of Caleb Fenton, a native of Virginia, who emigrated first to Kentucky and then to Boone county, Missouri, where he remained until his death, in 1840. Joshua was brought up on the farm and educated at the district schools. In 1849 he was married to Miss Agnes March, daughter of Absalom March, of Kentucky. Ten children were born to them, three boys and seven girls. One son and five girls are living. All are married except Joshua C, w^ho, at this writing, is living with his father. Mr. Fenton is a member of the Baptist church at New Providence. He cultivates an excellent farm of 300 acres ; is an enterprising, public-spirited citizen, honored and respected by all who know him.

William H. H. Fenton

The subject of this sketch was born in Boone county, Missouri, June 5th, 1835. He is the son of Caleb Fenton, a native of Kentucky, who came to Boone county at an early period of its history. His father ivas also named Caleb. William was educated at the common schools of the county. The first teacher, of any consequence, was Kobert A. Younger, under whose instructions he made rapid progress. He was married in 1856 to Miss Lucinda, daughter of Buford Stice, of Boone oounty, a native of Kentucky. By this union they had five children: Ada, who married Washington Mordica ; James T. married Miss Cora Phillippie; Andrew B. ; William E. ; Annie, married William Pollock. The first wife dying, Mr. Fenton married Miss Belle, daughter of John I. Pollock. Bythis union they have two sons, Hinton and Turner G., namesakes of Judge Hinton and Hon. Squire Turner, of Columbia, Missouri. Mr. Fenton is a member of the Masonic order. He purchased the farm upon which he now lives of Allen Coats. It was settled i^ 1819 ; it is situated on Silver's Fork, of the Perche, and is very productive. Notwithstanding the severe drought of 1881, which rendered the corn crop almost a failure, Mr. Fenton produced more of this cereal than he could consume.

James J. Fenton, Deceased

James J. Fenton was born in Kentucky, June 5, 1820. He was raised on a farm and chose agriculture as the future occupation of his life. He came to Missouri in his childhood. Married Sarah A., daughter of Anthony Drane. They had nine children, eight of whom are living. Their names are Caleb A., James A., Lawrence E., John P., M. A., Joseph I., Albert and George. The dead son was named Lee. He died at the age of two years. Four of their children are married. Caleb married Jennie Hall. They have five children. James A. mamed Carrie Trunnell and have one child. Laura E. married James Wilhite and they have one child . John P. married Susan Tucker and they have one child. Mr. Fenton was a member of the Bethlehem Baptist church. He died in 1869, aged forty-eight years and eight months. Mrs. Fenton is still living on the old homestead. Mr. Fenton was widely known and highly esteemed by all who knew him.

Archibald Goin

Archibald Goin is a native of Kentucky, having been born in Madison county, June 5, 1812. He is the son of Francis and Nancy Goin. Living in Kentucky until he was seventeen years *old, he came to Boone county in September, 1829, and remained one year in Missouri. He then returned to his former home in Kentucky. In 1831 came township, but afterwards removed to Perche township, where he now resides. He has followed agricultural pursuits all his life. Was married in 1830 to Sophia, daughter of Samuel and Ellen Hunter. They raised seven children, four of whom are now living. Lost two sons in the army. The names of the living are William H., Margaret^ James Grandison, and Susan P. Three of their children, James, Martha Ellen, and Franklin, are dead. Mrs. Coin is a member of the Old School Baptist church. Mr. Goin is not a church member.

Thomas Franklin 008Lin

The subject of this sketch was born where he now lives, September 7, 1837. He is the third child of Sylvester F., who came to Boone county in 1818, with his father, William, from Kentucky, when Sylvester was but ten years old. They had to take shelter in Cooper's Fort. Thomas is one of thirteen children, eight sons and five daughters. He was principally educated at subscription schools, Robert A. Younger being his first teacher. Having been raised upon the farm, he naturally chose that avocation on arriving at the age of maturity, and has followed the business ever since. He is also a carpenter, and has worked considerably at this trade. He inherited his father's farm^ upon which he now resides. The farm is well improved, and is finely adapted to stockraising. Mr.Goslin keeps some very fine stock and takes a lively interest in the business. He married Nancy E. Hawkius» daughter of Joel Hawkins, of Boone county. By this union they have six children, three of each sex. Their names are James, Joseph. John, Dora, Lou Ellen, and Amanda. Mr. Goslin is a member of the Baptist church at Bethlehem. He takes a deep interest in the cause of education, and is an enterprising, clever citizen.

Isaac C. Huntington

The subject of this sketch was born in New York, July 24th, 1834. He is the son of James P. Huntington, and of English-French origin. He came to Missouri in March, 1866, and settled in Boone county. He purchased 600 acres of land in the vicinity of the *' Model Farm,'* where he has since resided. Mr. Huntington is largely engaged in the live stock business, making Jersey and Durham cattle and thoroughbred sheep his specialties. Two hundred acres of his farm are in blue grass. He has one of the finest orchards in the county. Mr. Huntington was married to Miss Addie Barton, daughter of S. Barton, a merchant. They have four children, three sons and one daughter.

Mr. Huntington is a member of the A. F. & A. M. order. He has always taken an active part in public school work, but has no political aspii-ations. Was in the United States service during the late civil war and was wounded at the battle of Bull Run. He was first lieutenant under Col. Stiles. Mr. Huntington has a substantial, wellbuilt mansion furnished with all the modern improvements and conveniences of a well-ordered city residence. His yard and lawn are beautifully ornamented with flowers and shrubbery, arranged in the most beautiful and tasty manner. Mr. Huntington is highly appreciated by all who know him. He is a good neighbor, a genial companion and prompt and faithful in the discharge of all the duties of citizenship.

Dr. McQuitty is a young man of fine attainments, having both a classical and medical education, and withal the confidence and esteem of all who know him. He was born in Boone county, Missouri, January 15th, 1852. His father, Andrew J. McQuitty, was born in 1825, being the son of David McQuitty, one of the early pioneers of Missouri. The gi'andfather of Dr. McQuitty emigrated from Kentucky in 1811, settling first in St. Louis county. In 1813 he was an inmate of Pond's Fort. David, at this time, was with his father, Andrew, who subsequently entered the lands upon which Fielding W. Smith now resides. Andrew J. McQuitty, his grandson, settled part of the old Sexton farm. Dr. McQuitty is one of three children, two sons and one daughter. His- brother, James, married Miss Annie Dysart, of Boone county. Since graduating at the Missouri State University, Dr. McQuitty has been actively engaged in the practice of his profession. The first year of his professional life was spent at Burlington, Boone county. Returning to his own neighborhood, in 1882, he formed a partnership with Dr. Lewis, at Woodland ville, at which place he now resides. He has acquired some nice property at this place and is prospering in his profession. Dr. McQuitty is firm and devoted to his principles, resolute and determined in all that he undertakes. He is a member of the Baptist church at New Providence, and has been earnest and devoted in his religious duties from early youth.

George Washington Norris

The subject of this sketch is a native of Boone county, Missouri, bom January 6th, 1834. His father, William Norris, was bom in Albermarle county, Virginia. George W. Norris was one of eight children, five soils and three daughters. The elder Norris died when Oeorge was but five years old, leaving the latter to work out his own destiny. Under the circumstances, his education was somewhat neglected. He was first married to Miss Amanda I. Short, daughter of -Cornelius and Sallie Short, of Boone county. One child, Wilford A., was born of this marriage, and is now, at this writing, a student of the medical department of the Missouri. State University. His first wife having died, in 1861, Mr. Norris has since married the second time, the last wife being Mrs. Sarah F. Watts, nee Rowland, and widow of Wm. Watts. There were four children bv this marriacre: Ora M., Mattie L., Henry J., and George William. The second and third named are dead. Mr. Norris has resided since 1859 on a fine farm of 160 acres, situated in the vicinity of Bethlehem Baptist church, of which organization he and his family are members. During the late civil war Mr. Norris was a member of Company I, Second Missouri infantry. Confederate army. He was with Pembeilon at Vicksburg, in 1863, and was taken prisoner. Since the war he has been an active farmer, and has taken much interest in educational matters, -especially in matters peilaining to the common schools, his own district school in particular.

Benjamin H. Obear

Benj. H. Orear was born in Boone county, Missouri, September 18th, 1846. He is the son of Joseph B. Orear, a native of Kentucky. He was reared on the farm and educated at the common schools of the country. Was in the Confederate army under Gen. Price during the last year of the war. He married Fannie E. Searcy, widow of the late Thomas B. Searcy, who was a son q^* Lemuel B. Searcy, a prominent and influential citizen of Boone county. Thomas was born in Boone county, December 27th, 1838 ; he was educated at the common schools, completing his studies at Lathrop and Rocheport academies, under the instruction of his brother. Prof. Newton Searcy ; he entered the Confederate army and remained in the service until the close of th6 war, in 1865. He married Miss Annie E., -daughter, of William D. Bullard. The following children were born to him: Ethel B., Stella, Edna, Earl, Lemuel B. and Nellie T. Mr. Searcy was the choice of Boone county for assessor, and was twice -elected to that office. He was assessor at the time of his death ; he was a member of the Masonic order and took a lively interest in the grange, of which order he was an active member. He died April 3d,

1877, and was buried in the Rocky Fork cemetery. Thus passed away, in the vigor and prime of life, one of the most popular and influential young men of Boone county.

Edwin M. Price

The subject of this memoir is a son of R. B. Price, president of the Boone County National Bank. In discharging the duties of this important trust Mr. Price has shown remarkable ability. It is a position requiring prudence, firmness and decision of character, characteristics for which Mr. Price has long been noted. As a financier he has few equals ; his long and successful management of this business is sufficient commendation in itself. Edwin M. Price was bom in Columbia, August 5th, 1856 ; his mother was Emma Prewitt, daughter, of Moss Prewitt, one of the pioneer business men of Columbia ; he was both banker and merchant, and by diligent management accumulated a large fortune. He once owned the land upon which a large portion of Columbia is now situated ; he was also largely interested in slave property. Just prior to the war he owned more negi'oes than any other planter in the county. He was then largely engaged in farming:. When the war commenced he turned his attention to bankino: and merchandising. The subject of this sketch was educated at the Missouri State University, taking a scientific course; he received his diploma in 1880. Soon after graduating he purchased one thousand - one hundred and eighty acres of the celebrated *' Model Farm," previously the property of Hon. John W. Harris. Mr. Price is now living on this beautiful farm and is extensively engaged in raising thoroughbred cattle. He has on his farm one hundred and ten head of imported sheep. He is also largely interested in the mule trade. The farm is abundantly supplied with all kinds of labor-saving machinery. The '* Model Farm " is situated in the blue grass region. The pastures in this part of the county are scarcely inferior to those of Bourbon county, Kentucky. Mr. Price was married in 1881 to Miss Mary Lakenan, daughter of Senator R. F. Lakenan, of HannibaU Missouri. They have one son. He bears the name of R. B. Price, Jr.

Capt. David Prowell, Sb

The subject of this biography was born in Adair county, Kentucky^ January 26th, 1809. He was the eldest of a family of eleven children born to James and Margaret Prowell, natives ojf Virginia. The Pro wells are of Irish descent. William, grandfather on the father's side, was a soldier of the revolution. The maternal grandfather, Eobin Fletcher, was a soldier in the war of 1812. Mr. ProwelPs opportunities for obtaining an education were few and of the most primitive character. He obtained the rudiments of a common school education in a rude log cabin, destitute of floor and chimney. The fire-place was in the center of the room, under an aperture in the roof, through which the smoke escaped. Capt. Prowell married Miss Betsey Booher, daughter of Capt. John Booher, a native of Virginia, but at the time of his daughter's marriage a citizen of Kentucky. Seven children were born of this marriage, five of whom are alive at this writing. One of his daughters, Nancy W., married Montgomery Cowden, and removed with him to Texas. They have six children. Elizabeth married John M. Phillippie, of Boone county. They have ten children, two of whom are married. The names of the other children, living and dead, are Caroline, Mary J., David, Jr., John, and James. Capt. Prowell came to Missouri in 1834. While on the road his oldest child sickened and died. He settled near where he now lives, on ** View Hill," a very commanding situation, presenting a fine view of the surrounding country. His farm is located ten miles north of Columbia. The farming land lies in the valley of Silver's Fork of the Perche, and is very productive, producing, in 1881, forty bushels of wheat to the acre. The up-land is rolling and finely timbered, being well adapted to the growth of grass, tobacco, corn and wheat. The farm is admirably watered. Notwithstanding the corn crop of Missouri was almost a failure in 1881, Capt. Prowell produced on his farm a surplus of 500 bushels. In the beginning of the civil war, Capt. Prowell responded to the call of the governor for volunteers, but the array was soon disbanded, and he returned home. When the second call was made, he again responded. He was detached by his colonel to intercept a company of the enemy; hence did not reach Boonville till the battle was over. Returning to his home soon after, he was arrested and banished from the State, in company with several other prominent citizens of Boone county, known to be friendly to the South. Returning from Illinois, where he had been banished, he has remained quietly on his farm ever since. Capt. Prowell has always lived peaceably with his neighbors, having never been engaged in a law suit, though he has had as many business transactions with his fellow-men as usually fiiUs to the lot of a single individual. He has always been a positive Democrat. To him the name is a synonym for honesty. He has always been a farmer, but in

«arly life used to teach school during the winter season. He taught but one term, however, after coming to Missouri. Capt. Pro well is widely known and universally respected. His hospitality is proverbial. It is a saying of his, and a characteristic one, that the latch-string of his door hangs on the outside.

Robert Pro Well

Robert Prowell is a native of Adair county, Kentucky, where he was born December 10th, 1813. His father, James, was the son of William Prowell, a soldier of the revolution. The Prowells are of Irish origin, the great-grandfather of Robert having emigrated to America in colonial days. The subject of this sketch grew up to manhood in Kentucky, emigrating to Boone county, Missouri, in 1836. He settled on a farm and devoted his attention to agriculture and to breeding extra stable stock, keeping a special grade of harness and draught horses. He has followed this business successfully for over forty years. Mr. Prowell was married December 19th, 1838, to Miss Charlotte E., daughter of Leven Bishop, a native of Maryland. Eight -children were bom to them, four of each sex, three of whom, James, Lewis and Arabella, are dead. The surviving children are Margaret J., Sarah E., William, Judah A. and Joseph B. Margaret J. married Luther V. Caldwell. They have had three children, two of whom are living. Sarah E. married William Hayes. They have six children. William married Mary E. Lyon. They have three children. Judah A. married William Milhollen. They have three children. Mr. Prowell commenced improving his present home in 1846. It was then almost an unbroken forest. He bought the land from David Booth, who had entered it several years before. The farm contains 266 acres. As to religion, Mr. Prowell is a Methodist. His family are also members of that church. Mrs. Prowell has been a devoted Christian since she was fifteen years old, and has brought up her family in the fear and admonition of the Lord. She has been an active church member for fifty years.

Sanford Reid, Deceased

The subject of this sketch was born in Madison county, Kentucky, January 26th, .1843. He was the son of Orestus Reid. The family are of English origin. Sanford Reid was married in 1862 to Miss Martha E. Noe, daughter .of James S. Noe, of Virginia. Eight children were born of this marriage. Their names are George

M., W. Orestus, Samuel Z., Lena R., Ruth, Clifton B. and Rosa L. Two died in early childhood. Mr. Reid was in the Confederate ser-^ vice during the first year of the war. He was a member of the Christian church and an enterprising, worthy citizen ; an active promoter of education a^d a friend to public enterprise generally. He was a farmer.

Duskin Settles

Duskin Settles, son of G. Settles, of Virginia, was born in that State, September 15th, 1826, and emigrated to Boone county, Missouri, in 1860. Mr. Settles* opportunities for acquiring an' education were very ifmited. It was scarcely within his power to attain the rudiments of learning. He was married at the age of twenty-six to Miss Mary Shears, daughter of James Shears. Thirteen children have been born to them, nineof whom are alive at this writing. Mr. Settles is a man of excellent judgment, industrious, energetic and faithful in the discharge of every duty, whether of public or private import. For a number of years he managed the Model Farm. He was in charge of the farm when Mr. Harris died. He filled thisresponsible position to the entire satisfaction of his employer. Mr- Settles owns two hundred and fifty-two acres of land, which he cultivates to the best advantage. He is a member of the Methodist church.

Dr. John M. Shock is a native of Boone county, Missouri. He isthe son of David S. Shock, one of the early and substantial pioneers, a Kentuckian by birth, and a native of Fayette county. The father of David Shock was a Virginian and a soldier under *'Mad Anthony Wayne," in his famous campaign against the French and Indians. He remained in the army for three years. The Shocks are of French origin. The father and 2:randfather of Dr. Shock were members of the regular Baptist church. The subject of this biography was born one and a half miles north of Columbia, August 16th, 1824. He was^ brought up on the farm and attended the common schools of the country, which in his day were none of the best, but by close application he mastered the studies then taught in our district schools and became a teacher. After six years of diligent labor in the school room, he attended Pope's Medical, College in St. Louis, where he graduated in 1858. Returning from St. Louis, he commenced the practice of his profession in the neighborhood where he now resides. He has had all the practice he could attend to in the last quarter of a century. He is still in the prime of vigorous manhood, and at this writing is equal to the labor of the busiest year of his life. He has prospered in business almost from the start. He owns over five hundred acres of very fine land besides other valuable property. He was married in 1852 to Miss Sallie A. Sheley» daughter of Ransom Sheley, of Callaway county, Missouri. One child was born of this marriajje. The first wife died three years after marriage and the doctor chose for his second wife Miss Catherine Ritchie, of Kentucky. She died in I860*, leaving one child. He was married the third time to Miss Sallie J. M. Mc- Quitty, daughter of George McQuitty, a prominent farmer of Boone county. They have four children by this marriage, one son and three daughters. Dr. Shock is a zealous and influential member of the Baptist church and a teacher in the Walnut Grove Sunday school. He is a member of the Everett Grange, also a member of the Rocheport lodge of A. F. & A. M. His life has been a success. He is, in the strictest sense of the term, a self-made man.

Fielding W. Smith

Boone county has been blessed by nature with almost every variety of soil from the richest and most sightly to the roughest and most romantic. Rich pasture land is not the rule, but there are many thousands of acres of blue grass not excelled on the continent. The subject of this sketch owns over 300 acres of grass land situated in one of the richest and most beautiful sections of country west of the Mississippi. That this is no exaggeration, one need but visit the farms in this section to be convinced. Mr. Smith is a practical farmer and delights in his avocation as much as it is possible for a man to delight in his business. He is the youngest son of Capt. William Smith, one of the earliest settlers of Boone county, a man of superior intelligence and sterling worth. He came to Boone county a poor man, but by industry, prudence and energy accumulated a fortune, bequeathing to his sons not only a handsome legacy but a thorough education. Capt. William Smith was a native of Madison county, Kentucky. He was born in 1794, and emigrated to Boone county in 1819. He was of Irish extraction and possessed many of the characteristics of that race. He was jovial and witty, and loved a joke for its own sake. Possessing a fair education and excellent judgment, his services were urgently sought for in public life, but with the single exception of representing his county once in the legislature, he steadfastly refused all offers of promotion. BLis colleagues in the legislature were Dr. Matt. Arnold and William Rowland. Claib. Jackson and Sterling Price were ako members of the same general assembly. The latter was speaker of the house. Captain Smith resided on a farm five miles west of Columbia from 1819 to 1862, removing in that year to the farm now occupied by his son Fielding W. Smith. Here he died in 1875, at the age of 81. . He was a man of sterling worth, moral, upright and dignified, commanding the esteem of all who knew him. Fielding W. Smith was born April 17, 1846. He was educated at the liijUissouri State University. He was married in 1867 to Miss Mattie A. Mc- Kinney, of Boone county, daughter of John C. McBanney. Their union has been blessed by four sons. Their model home is noted (bt and wide for generous hospitality disp'ensed by Mr. and Mrs. Smith to all who pass the portals of their happy, well-oi'dered home. Mr. Smith makes a specialty of breeding thoroughbred stock, especially Cots wold sheep and Hereford cattle. He owns the only herd of Hereford cattle in the county, and the second herd in the State. His fine bull, <* Dictator," number 1989, weighs 2,000pouuds. He took the sweepstake premium at St. Louis in 1881 ; first premium at Eausas City in 1881, and the first prize at the Western National Fair at Lawrence, Kansas. Of this stock he has six females and two males. Three of his cows are imported from England. His herd is managed by W.J. Downing, an Englishman, from Hereford. He knows the name of every Hereford breeder in England and America and can tell the pedigree of every animal of the Hereford stock. Mr. Smith owns 900 acres of land, one-third of which is in blue grass. His farm is known as <* Greenwood." He is well supplied with all sorts of machinery, in fact there seems to be nothing wanting that heart could wish for. Mr. Smith is a member of the Baptist church at Walnut Grove. He is in the prime and vigor of young manhood, with, evidently, a bright future before him.

Solon E. Smith

David Smith, the father of Solon E. Smith, was born in Madison Kentucky, in 1806, and came to Missouri in 1824, settling permanently in Cooper county. He was afterwards a soldier in the Blackhawk war, rendering substantial service in that campaign. He has succeeded well as a farmer and his old age (he is still living) has been crowned with quiet ease and contentment. He is a worthy and consistent member of the Cumberland Presbyterian church, and a

Democrat in politics. David Smith is a brother of the late Capt. William Smith, of Boone county. He is the father of ten children, six ions and four daughters, all of whom are now living. Solon E., was bom in Cooper county, Missouri, November 27, 1846, and came to Boone county in 1880. He purchased the ** Rollins farm " from R. L. Baker, consisting of 459 acres, situated in the blue grass region and splendidly adapted to stock raising. The farm is elegantly improved. The situation is most beautiful. The lawn extending south from the mansion nearly three hundred yards is set in grass and ornamented with all kinds of evergreens and native forest trees. The place was improved by the late John Rollins, son of Dr. Rollins and brother of Maj. James S. Rollins. It is pait of the old Rollins homestead. The view from the mansion is distant and very impressive to all lovers of the sublime and beautiful in nature. Mr. Smith.is a bachelor. He has travelled a great deal, and being well posted on all the leading topics of the day, is a most entertaining companion. He is largely engaged in the stock business and deeply interested in his experiment, commenced in 1882, of breeding the Hereford cattle with the short horns.

John C. Stice

John C. Stice was born in Boone county, Missouri, January 30, 1844. His father, Buford Stice, was a native of Kentucky who emigrated to Boone county in an early day. He died when his son was a small boy. The subject of this sketch was one of five children, who grew up on the home place originally settled by the elder Stice, near the old Dripping Spring church. John C. Stice was educated at the common schools of his neighborhood, his first teacher being James Kelly. He was a soldier in the Confederate army during the last year of the war, and was in several battles. He married Miss Elizabeth Schooler, daughter of Alex. Schooler, of Boone county. They have four ciiildren, one son and three daughters. Mr. Stice owns a good farm of about 120 acres, situated on the public road. He is a breeder of fine horses and his stock is much praised in the community where he lives. He is a member of the Christian church.

John W, Thurston

John W. Thurston is of English extraction, but remotely, his forefathers for three or four generations having been born in Virginia. He himself was born in that State, being a native of Albemarle county. He is the son of Thomas Thurston, and was born December 4, 1829.

His mother was the daughter of Walter Watson, a revolutionary soldier, and a native of Maryland. Mr. Thurston came to Boone county Missouri, in 1854. In 1858 he was married to Miss Mary F. Elliott^ daughter of Eppa Elliott, By this marriage there are seven children - three sons and four daughters - all of whom are living. Their names are Ralph E., Mary L., John T., Nora M., Mary F,, Elsa E. and Hollis H. Mr. Thurston owns an excellent farm of 387 acres, well situated and finely improved. He is an enterprising, useful citizen. He is an official member of the Everett M. E. Church South. His oldest son, Ralph, E., was recently married to Miss Mary Cowden. The eldest daughter, Mary L., was for several years a student of the State Universitv, and is now a successful teacher of the common schools of Boone county.

Reuben Jefferson Wade

Reuben J. Wade was bom in Cumberland county, Kentucky, October 4, 1816. He is the son of Pierce Wade, who emigrated to Boone county in May, 1824, settling the place on which John Grant now lives. Here he and his wife lived out the remainder of their days. He was politically a Democrat ; religiously a Primitive Baptist. Young Wade was educated at the old log school houses of the county, under teachers who really knew but little ; but education being at a low ebb^ their qualifications were seldom, if ever, called into question. Mr. Wade was married to Miss Elizabeth Wingo, daughter of Thomas Wingo. By this union they have had ten children, five of whom are dead. The surviving children are Thomas B., Mary J., Alice, Mahala G., and Lucy E. William W. died while a soldier in the Confederate army. Thomas B. married India Rumans. They have five childi*en. Mary J. married Harrison Brown. They have had three children » two of whom are dead. Alice married John T. Holloway. They have no children. Mahala married James W. Benton. They have one child. In politics, Mr. Wade is an uncompromising Democrat ; in religion, a member of the Christian church.

Fountain F. Wayland

Fountain F. Wayland is a native of Virginia. He is the son of Joel Wayland, a soldier of the war of 1812. They are of English origin. The elder Wayland lived to be eighty-eight years old, and for threescore years and ten was a member of the Methodist church. Fountain was born in the '< Old Dominion," November 17, 1821, They left

Virginia in 1826 and went to Ohio, where they remained twelve years ; thence to Howard county, Missouri, where they lived till 1842. Coming to Boone county, they settled on the farm where Mr. Wayland now resides. He was married to Semira M. Smith, of Howard county. They have had eleven children - eight daughters and three sons. Three of their children are married. Mr. Wavland is an official member of the Methodist church.

Hon. William Bice Wilhite

The subject of this sketch is a practical farmer. Possessing many of the characteristics of a leader, he naturally became the representative of that worthy, influential and powerful class of citizens who, collectively, form the bulk of our population. This too without any special effort of his own in that direction. The farmers showed excellent judgment in selecting Mr. Wilhite, a man worthy of the 'honors conferred and capable of discharging the trust almost unanimously imposed. As a member of the legislature, Mr. Wilhite was not brilliant. His speeches were few, and never eloquent. He did not talk for the sake of talking. Such demagoguery is foreign to his nature. He strove to ascertain his official duty and then went earnestly to work to accomplish his purpose. His career in the State legislature won the esteem of every honest, conscientious representative in that body. His integrity, his devotion to principle, and, withal, his excellent judgment, made him a useful member ; useful not only to his constituents, but to the State at large, and to the party whose principles he represented. Mr. Wilhite was born in Boone county, Missouri, April 13th, 1830, and is at this writing about fifty-two years old, but looks much younger. His father was a native of Kentucky, but came to Missouri in 1818, when our State was yet a territory. The elder Wilhite was a farmer, and the subject of this sketch was brought up iu that business. His chances for acquiring an education were poor, but he made the best use possible of every opportunity that presented itself, and wheh in after years he was called from the farm to represent his county in the legislature he was prepared to discharge the duties of that office in the most acceptable manner. Mr. Wilhite was. married in 1853, but had the misfortune to lose his wife in th^ee years after their marriage. Their union was blessed with one child, a daughter, who grew up to womanhood and was married, but died in the first year of her wedded life. In 1851 Mr. Wilhite purchased a farm in Howard county, to which he removed, but soon returned to his father's old home in Boone county. In 1855 he bought a farm near Boeheport, on which he resided for about three years. He then purchased his present farm, near Woodlandville, consisting of 540 acres of very fine land. He has resided on this farm since 1864. It is admirably improved and in a high state of cultivation. In 1874 Mr. Wilhite was chosen to represent his county in the twenty-eighth general assembly. While a member of the legislature he was chairman of the committee on State University ; also ways and means, penitentiary, agriculture and scientific and benevolent institutions. He was reelected in 1876, without opposition, an endorsement without a parallel in the political history of Boone county. Since serving his last term in the legislature Mr. Wilhite has remained quietly on his farm, looking after his interests in that quarter, taking no part in politics whatever. He has frequently been solicited to again become a candidate for the legislature, but he seems rather to prefer the quiet home life of a well-to-do farmer to the anxiety and turmoil of political strife. Mr. Wilhite is a member of the Baptist church at Walnut Grove, and has always contributed liberally to the support of the gospel.

Moses Wilhite was born in Kentucky, October 28th, 1824. His father, Joel, was the son of Lewis Wilhite, of Virginia. Grandfather on the mother's side was George Elliott, of Irish origin. The Wilhites are of German descent. Joel was born in Virginia, and served in the war of 1812. He came to Missouri in 1837, when his son, Moses, was but a small boy. He settled on a farm and lived to a good old age, rearing a large family, and winning the respect and confidence of all who knew him. Moses was married to Miss Caroline A. Little, daughter of J. M. Little, an old settler from Kentucky. Nine children have been born to them, five boys and four girls. Their names are Hattie B., Mary C, James L., Joseph A., John P., George B., Edwin S., Stella E. and Lela M. Mary C. married George M. Hawkins. They have two children. James L. married Miss Fenton. They have one child. Joseph A. married Lou Ann Wade. They have one child. Hattie and Mary C. died in their 23d year. In faith Mr. Wilhite is a Baptist. He is a member of the Bethlehem congregation. He served in the Mexican war, under Gen. Doniphan. His farm consists of 295 acres, finely improved and in a high state of cultivation. The soil is well adapted to the cultivation of blue grass, and his pastures are the best in that section of the country. His land produces excellent wheat and corn. Mr. Wilhite ias made farming a success, and takes great interest in his farm and stock.

Smith Wilhite

The subject of this sketch was born in Kentucky, December 21st, 1822. He is the son of Joel Wilhite, a native of Culpepper county, Virginia. In 1837 Joel Wilhite emigrated to Missouri, and settled in Osage county, but did not remain there but one season. Coming to Booue county in 1838 he settled for the remainder of his life on a farm near New Providence church. His children were educated at the common schools of the country. The subject of this sketch married Rebecca Grant, daughter of Elijah Grant, of Boone county. Eleven children were born to them, three of whom died in infancy. The living are Mary E., Robert H., Boyle G., Porter C, Myra B., Nannie A., Minnie M. and Sallie P. Mary E. married George M. Hawkins. They have had two children. Boyle G. married Laura Hawkins. Mr. Wilhite has a fine farm of 250 acres which was but partially improved when he bought it. It is now one of the best farms in that region of country. He has excellent blue grass and is well-fixed for raising and handling stock. Mr. Wilhite was a soldier in the Mexican war under Col. Eastman. He is a member of the Baptist church at New Providence. He takes a great interest in education, and has been an active agent in building up one of the finest district schools in the county.