Tulsa, Oklahoma - History (part 8 of 10)

Mr. Kaufman has always been very fond of baseball and motoring, and turns to these pursuits for his pleasure and recreation. He is a popular and genial host, and since coming to Tulsa has won substantial success in the hotel business. Fraternally he is connected with the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and his religious faith is that of the Methodist Episcopal church.

Oliver Ii. Leonard

Seldom does the news of a death carry with it such a sense of personal bereavement into many homes as did that of Oliver H. Leonard, honored as a citizen and business man in Tulsa, whose well-spent life and sterling character gained for him the warmest esteem, affection and goodwill of all with whom he was associated. Oliver H. Leonard was born July 26, 1863, in Muscatine county, Iowa. He belonged to one of the pioneer families of that locality, his parents being Joshua and Ellen H. (Ady) Leonard, both of whom were natives of Ohio. Removing westward they resided for many years in Iowa, where the father followed the occupation of farming as a life work. He was prominent in community affairs and commanded the respect of all who knew him. His birth occurred in Delaware county. Ohio, and there he obtained his education, after which he devoted his attention to farming in that state until 1854, when he became a resident of Springfield, Illinois. Two years later he established his home in Iowa, casting in his lot with the early settlers of Muscatine county. where he procured a tract of wild land which he converted into a rich and productive farm. He resided there until 1864 and then went to Poweshiek county, Iowa, becoming one of the prominent and influential citizens of that section of the state. He served for nine consecutive years on the board of county commissioners, and took a most helpful interest in promoting public progress in the little city of Brooklyn, and there he passed away in iqoo. He gave his early political allegiance to the whig party and upon its dissolution joined the ranks of the new republican party. Both he and his wife were devoted members of the Methodist church and died in that faith. They had a family of seven children.

Oliver H. Leonard, one of this number, was educated in the State University of Iowa at Iowa City, and graduated from business college, after which he became identified with the Poweshiek County Bank, filling the position of assistant cashier. After two years experience he was promoted to the position of cashier and continued to act in that capacity until 1889, when he resigned and disposed of his stock in the institution. He then went to Pipestone, Minnesota, where he became one of the organizers of the Farmers & Merchants Bank, of which he was elected president. Subsequently he returned to Iowa and purchased stock in the Citizens Savings Bank of Cedar Falls, which elected him to the office of cashier. He continued to fill that position until 1910, when severing his business connections in Iowa, he removed to Tulsa and was here elected vice president of the Exchange National Bank, of which he became one of the principal stockholders, after spending a year with the Union Trust Company. The Exchange National is the largest bank in the state of Oklahoma, and as vice president. Mr. Leonard had' much to do with forming its policy, and directing its affairs, giving his attention, throughout the years from 191 1 to the time of his death, to administrative direction and executive control. His long experience as a banker well qualified him for the responsible duties that devolved upon him and he ranked with the foremost financiers of the state and was honored by all, by reason of the honesty and integrity of his course and the progressiveness of his methods.

On the 22d of September, 1885, Mr. Leonard was married to Miss Nellie B. Bennett, a native of Brooklyn, Iowa, and a daughter of L. M. Bennett, who went to Iowa in 1862. To Mr. and Mrs. Leonard were born three children: Lucile, now Mrs. H. M. LeSourd of Columbus, Ohio, who is the mother of a son, Leonard ; Virginia Kathleen, who passed away in December, 1920, greatly beloved by all ; and Howard, eleven years of age.

The family circle was again broken by the hand of death when on February 11, 1921, Mr. Leonard was called to his final rest. He had made for himself a notable place in the community. He was at one time president of the Commercial Club, now the Chamber of Commerce. He belonged to the Country Club, the City Club and the Petroleum Club, and was interested in all those forces which make for the development and upbuilding of a community along material, intellectual, social and moral lines. He had membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, of which he was one of the trustees, and he was a director and liberal supporter of Kendall College. His political endorsement was given to the republican party and his decision upon any vital question was never an equivocal one. He stood loyally for what he believed to be right and no one questioned the integrity of his motives. While a man of marked ability he was also one of modesty, free from ostentation in every way. He had splendid qualities that endeared him to all, and his character is perhaps best portrayed in the words of his pastor, the Rev. J. W. Abel, who in the funeral services took as his text: "And he wrought that which was good and right and faithful before Jehovah and his God.'' Speaking of Mr. Leonard, he said: "He was reared in a Christian home and converted when he was a young man and at once went about establishing a family altar in his newly made home, entering at once into the responsibilities of the work of the church, and from that hour was always in some responsible position in the church. Here you have the secret of this man's life. No doubt there are in this company today many men who have gone to Mr. Leonard in the hour of financial straits and have received from his assistance, encouragement and friendly advice." It was characteristic of Mr. Leonard that he was constantly extending a helping hand where it was needed and the world is certainty better for his having lived.

Tohn Reagan Hadley

The interests which constituted the foundation for the activities of John Reagan Hadley are many, so that he has become well known as a lawyer, oil producer and philanthropist. He is a man of determined character who carries forward to successful completion well formulated plans and purposes, and his sound judgment precludes false moves and unwarranted risk. Mr. Hadley came to the southwest from Indiana, his birth having occurred on a farm in Hendricks county, December 10, 1865. His lather. Atlas Hadley, was born in Indiana and devoted his lite to the occupation of fanning. He married Elizabeth Reagan and they celebrated their golden wedding two years ago. Since then the father ha- passed away but the mother still occupies the old homestead. They were member? of the Society of Friends or Ouakers, and were most highly esteemed in the community where they made their home. To them were born eight children, of whom five are living.

John Reagan Hadley was educated in the Ouaker schools of Indiana, attending Earlham College at Richmond, Indiana. He afterward took up the profession of teaching and for three years was principal of a high school in Indiana, but regarded this merely as an initial step to other professional labors, it being his desire to become a member of the bar. He therefore made arrangements to read law under the direction of Judge John V. Hadley, afterward chief justice of the supreme court of Indiana, and was admitted to the bar in 1889. He practiced in Gas City and in Marion, Indiana, until 1903, and for nine years rilled the office of city attorney, making a most creditable record, as is indicated by his long continuance in the position. In 1909 he removed to Kansas City, Missouri, spending a year there and then made his way to the Cushing oil held at the time of the boom in that locality. He located there and became prominent and influential as a citizen of Cushing. He organized the Commercial Club, of which he became first secretary, and afterward director and officer. He was also prominent in the practice of law and was elected president of the Cushing Bar Association. Since coming to Tulsa he has attained membership in the Tulsa County Bar Association, enjoying the high regard, confidence and respect of all of his professional colleagues and contemporaries. Keenly interested in the oil development of the state he secured a lease on two acres of school property in the famous Cushing field, on which a small schoolhouse stood. There he drilled an oil well and a year later, by drilling deeper he struck the first sand, drilled a second well and from these two wells produced about three thousand barrels per day for some time, giving to the school board more than fifty thousand dollars in royalties, so that the locality now has a tine big school building on its property, with two hundred and fifty pupils in attendance. Mr. Hadley is also a director and vice president of the Atlas Life Insurance Company of Tulsa, director of the Security State Bank and president of the People's Building and Loan Association. He does not continue as an active representative of the bar. but is giving his attention to his investments, for his operations in the oil field have made him one of the capitalists of this section of the state.

Mrs. Hadley is very active in the work of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Hadley took a most helpful interest in the war work and was in philanthropic and charitable activities. Politically he is a pronounced republican and a recognized leader in the ranks of the party in the state, serving as a member of the republican state central committee and as chairman of its credential committee. He was a delegate to the national convention in 1916. was a director of honest elections for and legal adviser of the state republican committee in 1920, and member of the industrial committee of the Chamber of Commerce of Tulsa, and at all times has cooperated heartily in the work of that organization for the benefit and upbuilding of the city, for the extension of its trade relations and the maintenance of its high civic standards. He is vice president and director of the Tulsa Purchasing Agents' Association and a member of the

City Club. He is well known in fraternal circles, having for thirty years been a member of the Knights of Pythias, in which he has rilled all of the chairs, serving as a member of the grand lodge in three different states. He likewise belongs to the Masonic lodge, including the Scottish Rite and the Shrine, consistory and chapter. The duties and obligations of life he has ever fully met and has always used his time wisely and well for the benefit, not only of his individual fortunes, but of the community, commonwealth and country.

Al Brown

One of the substantial business men of Tulsa is Al Brown, who for some years has engaged in the production of oil here, having been attracted to this city by its rapid growth and development as the metropolis of the oil and gas district of Oklahoma. He is a southerner by birth, his native state being Kentucky, and he first saw the light of day on the 23d of July, 1876, in Bowling Green, Warren county, that state. He was the seventh of a family of twelve children born to James W. and Cecilia Honora (Chamagne) Brown, the former being a native of Ireland and the latter of France. Their marriage occurred in Kentucky. James W. Brown lived in Ireland, where he received his education until at the age of fourteen years he came to the United States and located at New Orleans, Louisiana, where he was variously employed for three years. At the end of that time he engaged in the handling of hoop poles and as the result of sound judgment in the conduct of his affairs and by reason of his enterprise and diligence, he soon developed an extensive and profitable business. He purchased stock at points along the Mississippi and Ohio rivers and operated a line of barges by which to transport them to his New Orleans home. His business interests netted him an income of from one hundred and fifty thousand to two hundred thousand dollars a year and he continued along that line for a period of about twelve years. Prior to the Civil war Mr. Brown had made extensive investments in farm land in Warren county, Kentucky, and upon moving onto that land developed a large and prosperous enterprise, taking his place among the substantial agriculturists of the state. He was a man of genuine personal worth and many sterling traits of character and the esteem and regard in which he was held by all with whom he came into contact is well illustrated by the following incident. He kept a corps of more than thirty-five slaves on his plantation and when he offered them their liberty, five of the oldest and most faithful refused to leave, with the result that he continued to care for them, paying them consistent wages, and as it was the custom in those days for slaves to adopt the family name, Mr. Brown readily conceded to the wishes of those of the number who wished to adopt his name. In 1885 the father disposed of his land in the Bluegrass state and removed with his family to Wichita, Kansas, where he engaged in ranging cattle until 1897, after which time he lived virtually retired until his death in 1908, at the age of sixty-nine years. His wife preceded him in death by eight years, she being sixty years of age at the time of her demise. Throughout his life Mr. Brown gave his political endorsement to the democratic party and he was an influential member of that party in Kentucky and Kansas. He was appointed police commissioner of Wichita, Kansas, after the adoption of the commission form of government and was democratic candidate for the state legislature but was defeated by a republican with a small majority. He also served as postmaster at Anness, Sedgwick county, Kansas, under the first administration of President Cleveland and as one of the close friends of Governor Llewellyn was a dominant factor in bringing about his nomination. The governor offered him the position of warden at the state penitentiary, but he declined.

The public schools of Wichita, Kansas, afforded Al Brown a preliminary education, which was also continued in the schools of Ft. Scott, that state. At the age of nineteen years, upon the completion of his studies, he became a traveling representative and salesman for the Otto Kuehne Preserving Company, headquarters at Topeka. Kansas, and Denver, Colorado, and he remained with that concern for about eleven years, winning a substantial amount of success in that connection. His progressiveness, energy and ability won for him constant promotion and at the termination of that period he was made manager of the firm's branch at Oklahoma City. He was active along that line until 1906, when he came to Tulsa and established a residence. For five years he was engaged as city salesman for Ratcliff & Sanders, wholesale grocers, and then entered the insurance and real estate and loan business, building up a most .substantial and prosperous enterprise. In 1913 he severed his connections with that business and has since devoted his entire attention to the oil industry, in which he had first become interested in 1907. Mr. Brown is one of the men associated with the opening of the western extension of what is known as the Flatt Rock Pool and was also a dominant factor in opening the oil properties of the Collinsville Pool and the East Glen extension. As an oil producer he has been very successful but he has not confined his activities entirely to that line. He has made heavy investments in Tulsa real estate and his various city holdings have been brought to a wonderful state of improvement. He has erected and sold fifty or more excellent homes in Tulsa, the majority of them being completed in 1914.

In 1895 occurred the marriage of Mr. Brown and Miss Hattie May Gibbs, a native of Mexico, Audrain county, Missouri. To their union four children have been born: James H., whose demise occurred at the age of eight vears ; Cecilia Honora ; Harold Victor; and Helen Louise, her death having occurred at the age of eight years.

The political allegiance of Mr. Brown has always been given to the democratic party and it is well known that he is a stalwart champion of any cause which it espouses, although he has never sought personal preferment as a reward for party fealty. Fraternally he is a member of the Elks, Tulsa Lodge. Xo. 946, and likewise holds membership in the Chamber of Commerce. For recreation Mr. Brown turns to outdoor sports and is a baseball fan in particular. He established the Association Baseball Park, which he improved at the cost of several thousand dollars and in this way made it possible for Tulsa to become represented in the Western League. He was owner and first president of the Tulsa Club of this league and is still maintaining an enthusiastic in.terest in the affairs of that organization.

Lynne D. Baird

While making a humble start in the business world, Lynne D. Baird has steadily advanced and is today manager of sales with the Superior Tube Company of Tulsa. He has made good use of his time, his talents and his opportunities and as the years have passed his labors have constantly broadened in scope and importance. He comes to the southwest from Iowa, his birth having occurred in Council Bluffs, that state, on the 8th of January, 1887, his parents being George G. and Laura (Bell) Baird, who were natives of Ohio and Kentucky, respectively. The father was quite active in political affairs, serving as county clerk and in other positions of public honor and trust. He was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal church and also a loyal follower of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He died in 1919 and is survived by his widow, who yet makes her home in Council Bluffs. They were the parents of five children, four of whom are living.

At the usual age Lynne D. Baird entered the public schools of his native city and completed the work of consecutive grades, graduating from the high school there. When his textbooks were put aside he engaged in railroad work in a clerical capacity at Omaha, Nebraska, where he spent several years. He then became connected with oil interests by entering the employ of the Oil Well Supply Company of Wyoming, having charge of a store for that corporation at Basin, Wyoming, for three years. He next entered the employ of the Carter Oil Company of Denver, Colorado, where he continued for two years, at the end of which time he secured an interest with the Superior Tube Company and in 1918 came to Tulsa, and has since been sales manager of this company. His long- connection with oil interests has made him thoroughly familiar with various phases of the business and what he undertakes he accomplishes, reaching the point of success by direct measures that are at all times resultant.

Mr. Baird belongs to the Petroleum Club and to the Country Club. He is well known in Masonic circles, having membership in Bluff City Lodge, No. 71, A. F. & A. M., and he has also taken the degrees of the York Rite, becoming a member of Mount Lebanon Commandery, No. 11, K. T., at Thermopolis, Wyoming, and also Kalif Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S., at Sheridan, Wyoming. His religious faith is that of the Episcopal church and his life has ever been guided by high and honorable principles, making him a man whom to know is greatly to esteem and respect.

Tacob A. Bearman

Jacob A. Bearman, oil producer of Tulsa, is a native of Reidsville, North Carolina, his birth having occurred in 1879. He later moved to Mullins, South Carolina. In the attainment of his education he completed a high school course and then, attracted by the opportunities for investment in the southwest, he came to Oklahoma in 1Q05 from Mullins, South Carolina, and settled in the town of Broken Arrow, Tulsa county. Impressed with the natural agricultural advantages in this region he acquired large tracts of land, which he devoted to farming interests. Later he became president of the Broken Arrow Investment Company and through his connection with this enterprise his attention was directed to the oil possibilities of the state. In fact he became one of the pioneers in the development of the rich oil fields in Broken Arrow and is actively connected with the oil business as a producer, enjoying the fascination of the game and willing to take what fortune brings, yet basing his investments and activities upon sound judgment and broad experience, together with the best scientific assistance tbat can be gained. At the same time he has not forsaken farming and retains his agricultural holdings. He is, however, president of a number of important oil companies, including the Betty Ruth Oil Company, the

Basic Petroleum Corporation and the Staple Oil Company, and is general manager of the Burk Petroleum Corporation, all of Tulsa, lie is also associated with many other enter] irises in Tulsa, and is a stockholder in these.

On the 3d of June, 1906. Mr. Bearman was married to Miss Alice Talbot, a daughter of William Talbot of Fayette, Missouri, and they have two children, both born in Broken Arrow: Richard, born July 2?, 1910; and Agnes, horn October 26. 1913.

Mrs. Bearman is a member of the Episcopal church and she is very active in club and social affairs, being a member of the United Daughters of the Confederacy, and the Hyechka and Delphians. Fraternally Mr. Bearman belongs to the Masons, Knights of Pythias, the Odd Fellows and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, lie is likewise a member of the Tulsa Chamber of Commerce, the Petroleum Club of Tulsa, the Auto Club and the Ozark Club. He is a big man physically, mentally and morally, of jovial disposition and very popular wherever known. He possesses wonderful energy and ability and his word is as good as his bond. He is always ready to help the unfortunate and extend a hand where aid is needed and the many sterling qualities which he has displayed in every relation of life mark him as a most valued addition to the citizenship of Tulsa.

Richard Lloyd Tones

Richard Lloyd Jones, publisher and editor of the Tulsa Tribune, was born in Janesville. Wisconsin, April 14, 1873, a son of Jenkin Lloyd and Susan C. (Barber) Jones. The father was one of the most eminent preachers of Chicago, not only because of his pulpit work but also because of the active part which he took in meeting sociological and economic conditions affecting the general welfare. Both he and his wife have passed away.

In the acquirement of his education Richard Lloyd Jones spent five years as a student in the Universities of Wisconsin and Chicago, pursuing special courses, and later he matriculated in the Chicago Law School, from which he was graduated with the LL. B. degree in 1897, while the Master of Laws degree was conferred upon him in 1898. In 1918 Lincoln Memorial University at Cumberland Gap, Tennessee, of which institution he was for eight years a trustee, conferred upon him the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws. Throughout his life he has been identified with newspaper publication. He was editor of the Stamford (Conn.) Telegram in 1890 and in 1900 became special editorial writer of the Washington Times, so continuing until 1902. He was next associate editor of the Cosmopolitan Magazine in 1902-3 and in the latter year became associate editor of Collier's Weekly, remaining in active connection with that publication until 1911. For eight years thereafter he was editor and owner of the Wisconsin State Journal, published at Madison, and in November, 1919, he became publisher and editor of the Tulsa Tribune. He is most widely known in editorial circles throughout the country and his prominence in this connection rivals his father's eminence in the ministerial field.

On the 30th of April, 1907. in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Mr. Jones was married to Georgia Hayden. a daughter of II. II. TIayden, a noted lawyer. Mr. and Mrs. Tones have become parents of three children: Richard Lloyd, Jr., Jenkin Lloyd and Florence Lloyd.

Farm Association in 1906, which preserved Lincoln's birthplace as a national park and erected there the Lincoln memorial and is still in charge of it as commissioner under the department of war. From 191 1 until 1919 he was chairman of the board of visitors of the University of Wisconsin. He is a member of four Xew York city clubs : the Players, the City, the National Arts, and the Phi Gamma Delta Clubs. His religious faith is that of the Unitarian church. His interest in public affairs is manifest in many tangible ways, not the least of which is his endorsement through the columns of his paper of all those projects and plans which have to do with the city's upbuilding and with the welfare of state and country.

Washington E. Hudson

Twenty-eight years have passed since Washington E. Hudson was admitted to the bar and in the intervening period he has won prominence as a trial lawyer, being regarded as one of the leading attorneys of Tulsa. In a profession where advancement depends entirely upon individual merit and ability he has worked his way steadily upward and it was his own efforts that provided the means for his education and enabled him to qualify for law practice. He has ever been actuated by high ideals and dominated by laudable ambition, and his steadfast purpose has carried him forward to the goal of professional success. He dates his residence in Oklahoma from 1902, coming to this state from Tennessee. He was born October 8, 1872, in Neely's Bend, Davidson county, Tennessee, near Nashville, and is descended from English ancestry, the family having been founded in America in colonial days, while representatives of the name served in the American army in the war for independence. His parents were Horatio and Annie (Schooler) Hudson, both of whom were natives of Kentucky. They became parents of three children. Mr. and Mrs. Horatio Hudson were among the early residents of Neely's Bend, Tennessee, and there the father passed away in 1882, leaving a widow and three children, of whom Washington E. was the eldest, and still a young lad. His younger brother was Isaac, who passed away at the age of twenty-seven years, while the sister, Mary, died at the age of twenty-five. After several years of widowhood the mother married again and her death occurred in 1911. The only surviving child of her second marriage is Mrs. Herbert Talbot, now residing in Nashville, Tennessee.

Washington E. Hudson pursued his early education in the public schools of Neely's Bend and desirous of gaining broad knowledge as a preparation for life's practical and responsible duties, he utilized every opportunity to continue his education. After a time he entered the Woolwine Training school at Nashville, Tennessee, where he remained a student for a year, and later continued his studies in the South Kentucky College at Hopkinsville, Kentucky, in which he completed a regular four years' course in two years, being graduated on the 8th of June, 1890, with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. He had applied himself with great thoroughness and persistence to his studies, so that he managed to complete the course in a notably short space of time. At the Vanderbilt University at Nashville, Tennessee, he became actively affiliated with the Sigma Epsilon Alpha fraternity. Attracted toward the practice of law as a life work, he became an employe in the office of George K. Whitworth, clerk of the chancery court at Nashville, and this constituted his initital step toward his professional career. He afterward began the study of law in the office of De Moss & Malone, attor- neys of Nashville, and in the following autumn matriculated as a student in Vanderbilt University of that city. I lis previous law study and his close application enabled him to complete the three years' course in one year, and he was graduated in June, 1892, with the LL. B. degree. Immediately afterward he was admitted to the bar and entered upon practice in Nashville, where he soon gave demonstration of his ability in the trial of cases and also as a counselor. The excellent qualities he displayed in his initial practice secured for him the appointment of assistant, from Robert Vaughn, the district attorney, and he remained in that office for seven years, gaining valuable experience in all phases of legal work. The supreme court of Tennessee declared that he was the ablest indictment draftsman in the state - this statement being due to the fact thai dining his seven years of service as an assistant to the district attorney not a single error was found in any indictment drawn by him. He resigned his position at Nashville in iqo2, after having served as the youngest assistant district attorney in the state, and made his way westward because of his health.

Air. Hudson has been connected with Oklahoma since May, t<)02, at which time he took up his abode in Lawton, the county seat of Comanche county, and there he served as assistant county attorney for two years. Moreover, he took an active part in organizing the democratic forces in that part of the state, which had formerly been the Kiowa and Comanche Indian reservation that had been opened to settlement in 1901. He continued in law practice in Lawton until the year of Oklahoma's admission to the Union, and then removed to Frederick. Tillman county, where he remained until 1912. In the latter year he became a resident of Tulsa, where he has since made his home, and through the intervening period has become a most prominent lawyer, closely associated with practice that has had to do with the development of the oil and gas interests of the state. In fact he is accounted one of the foremost trial lawyers of Oklahoma. His handling of a case is always full and comprehensive, his reasoning clear. his deduction sound and logical, and the court records bear testimony to the many important legal battles which he has won.

At Hopkinsville. Kentucky, on the 8th of May, 1804. Mr. Hudson was married to Miss Annie Dade, representative of one of the distinguished families of Virginia. Mr. and Mrs. Hudson have become parents of two children: Bessie, who married Sidney S. Smith of Tulsa, Oklahoma; and Robert who is in his second year at Vanderbilt University. The family is prominent socially.

Politically Mr. Hudson has always been a stalwart democrat and a recognized leader in the ranks of his party, since coming to Oklahoma. In 1914, without solicitation on his part, he was made a candidate for the state legislature and was elected to the fifth general assembly, serving in 191 5 and 1916. During the fifth session of the house he was one of the leading candidates for the speakership, but before the end of the contest withdrew in favor of the Hon. Alexander McCrory, who was elected. Mr. Hudson was appointed chairman of the committee on oil and gas, and was the author of several hills that were designed to remedy many unjust conditions existing in the oil fields. As an earnest supporter of the administration of Governor Williams he did his part in fostering legislation insuring retrenchment and reform, lie was also selected from the general assembly as one of a committee of three to draw articles of impeachment against A. P. Watson, one of the corporation commissioners of the state, and after the articles were presented to the house of representatives he was chosen one of the prosecutors of Mr. Watson, who was most ably defended by a firm of prominent lawyers, but Mr. Hudson and his colleagues so presented the case that Mr. Watson was impeached, tinder several of the impeachment charges. It was practically left to Mr. Hudson to sum up the evidence in the case and it is the consensus of opinion of all who heard his speech that it was one of the most powerful and brilliant speeches ever made in the state of Oklahoma.

Aside from his activity in the political field Mr. Hudson was a charter member of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks in Nashville, Tennessee, and now belongs to the Knights of Pythias of Tulsa. He is also actively identified with the Tulsa County and Oklahoma State Bar Associations, and is a valued representative of the Tulsa Chamber of Commerce. In fact, the city numbers him among its prominent and honored residents, while his professional position is a most enviable one.

Eugene Lorton

Eugene Lorton, publisher and owner of the Tulsa Daily World, was born near Middletown, Missouri, May 28, 1869. His father, R. R. Lorton, a native of Missouri, pioneered in Texas and Kansas, and was actively identified with development of the south and west, devoting his life to farming and stock raising.

After finishing the course in the common schools of Missouri and Kansas, Eugene Lorton started out in the business world by serving an apprenticeship at the printer's trade in Medicine Lodge, Kansas. He then tried railroading, but a jolt from a freight car in Kansas City discouraged this line of endeavor, and after recovering from the accident he went to Idaho territory, where he published weekly papers in Salubria, Emmett and Boise. In 1896 he returned to Kansas and purchased the Linn County Republic at Mound City. In 1900 he moved to the state of Washington, where he became actively interested in politics and the newspaper business. He became managing editor of the Walla Walla Daily Union and was the founder of the Walla Walla Daily Bulletin. Upon the election of Governor Cosgrove, whose campaign he managed, he was appointed chairman of the state board of control. The only other political office he ever held was mayor of Mound City, Kansas. In 1916 he was a member of the finance committee of the Republican National Committee.

In the fall of 191 1 he purchased an interest in the Tulsa Daily World and in 191 7 became sole owner. Whatever success has come to the World is due to his progressive policies, his decided views on all public questions and independent thought and action.

William James Kirkwood

William James Kirkwood, numbered among Tulsa's oil producers and by reason of his activity in the oil industry classed with those men who are the real builders and promoters of the commonwealth, was born in Westmoreland, Pennsylvania, May 17, 1855, and is a son of James and Lucetta (Laughfer) Kirkwood, the former a native of Pennsylvania, and one of a family of eleven children. The grandfather came to the new world from Scotland and settled in Pennsylvania. The grandfather in the maternal line came from Germany.

History Of Tulsa 703

James Kirkwood was a farmer by occupation, following that pursuit in the Keystone state until 1877 and removed to Abilene, Dickinson county, Kansas. where he carried on farming to the time of his retirement from active business life in 1882. He then took up his abode in the city of Abilene, where he continued to make his home until his demise in 1904. His political faith was that of the republican party and his religious faith that of the Presbyterian church. He was a man of very religious nature, untiring in his efforts in behalf of the church work and his influence was widely felt.

William James Kirkwood was the second son of a second marriage and his mother died when he was but five years of age. lie had the opportunity of attending school only until he reached the age of twelve, when he left home and as a youth of fourteen began working in the rolling mills at Leechburg, Pennsylvania, where he remained for six months before the family knew where he was. He afterward returned to Parnassus, Pennsylvania, where he engaged in telegraphic work, following this pursuit for a time. He later learned engineering and was employed at different periods as fireman, as engineer and as extra telegraph operator on the Allegany Valley Railroad until 1S77. In that year he entered the employ of the United Pipe Line Company as a gauger in Pennsylvania. His knowledge of telegraphy and machinery made him able to fill various responsible positions and he was made extra engineer and operator for the United Pipe Line Company, acting in that capacity for a period of eight years.

It was in 1884 that Mr. Kirkwood arrived in Abilene, Kansas, where he secured a position on the police force, being appointed to the office of chief. In that connection he made a record of which any man could be proud. Those who know him speak of him as a bright, clean, energetic man, who is a force for good in the world. He continued a representative of the police department for five years, during which time Abilene had a reputation as a cattle town and all of the gun men of the country were there. There would have been an era of crime and lawlessness had not the police force been thoroughly organized and ready to cope with the situation, Mr. Kirkwood contributing in large measure to the maintenance of law and order. In 1S89 he returned to the oil game, as he felt that he had served long enough as police officer. He then went to Pennsylvania and organized the Kirkwood Oil Company, operating in Venango county, that state, with good success. In 1890, however, he disposed of his interest in the east and became identified with the Producers & Refiners Company of Oil City, Pennsylvania, building stations, iron tanks and refining stations. While at Oil City, Pennsylvania, he was for two terms councilman of the Ninth Ward and had been reelected for the third term, but left for Marietta, Ohio. He made no solicitation whatever for this position. He became one of the first successful pumpers of refined oil through to the Gulf and with the company remained until 1899, when he went to Marietta, Ohio, with W. H. D. Chapin, general manager of the United States Oil & Gas Company, operating in Ohio, West Virginia and Pennsylvania until 1904. In the latter year Mr. Kirkwood engaged as a producer and contractor on his own account in Ohio and West Virginia. This he followed until 1905, when he went to Kentucky, operating in the oil fields at Campton, Wolfe county. He had charge of the John H. Morgan Company of Lexington, Kentucky, with which corporation he remained until he came to Tulsa in 1907, supervising the drilling done for that corporation. After coming to Oklahoma Mr. Kirkwood was first with W. H. Johnson of the Sagamore Oil Company, in charge of production and field work. Shortly afterward he went to Xowata, Oklahoma, with the firm of Powell & Frazier, who had properties all over that district and whom he represented as superintendent. Late in 1908 he became associated with Archie Campbell as senior partner in the firm of Campbell & Kirkwood. He did his own drilling in Nowata and Washington counties, Oklahoma, and in 1910 became associated with H. W. Kennedy, under the style of the Knickerbocker Oil Company of Nowata in the Childers field. Mr. Kennedy was president and Mr. Kirkwood was secretary and treasurer. This company was one of the best producers in the Nowata field. Mr. Kirkwood is now owner of the Pooler Creek Oil & Gas Company of Copan, Oklahoma, also is part owner and manager of oil production in Nowata and Creek counties, known as the Kirkwood & Kennedy properties. He also owns considerable production property in Nowata and Rogers counties, and his possessions include city property. He is likewise a stockholder in several large oil and gas companies aside from those already mentioned. Mr. Kirkwood was united in marriage to Miss Maude M. Kirkwood, a daughter -of James Kirkwood, a very distant relative of the father of William James Kirkwood. To this marriage have been born two children: May, who is the wife of Charles F. Theobald of Nowata, who is superintendent of Mr. Kirkwood'3 properties and by whom she has a daughter, Ruth Elizabeth ; and Charles W., an oil producer of Texas, living, however, in Tulsa. He is married and has one son, Charles Kent. Mr. Kirkwood has always been an athlete, has never had any bad habits and today is an unusually perfect specimen of manhood for his age. His p'olitical endorsement is given to the republican party and he is well known in fraternal circles as a Mason, belonging to American Union Lodge, No. 1, A. F. & A. M., of Marietta, Ohio ; American Union Chapter, No. 1, R. A. M. ; Trinity Commandery, No. 20, K. T., of Tulsa ; and the Scottish Rite Consistory of Cincinnati. He is likewise identified with Akdar Temple of the Mystic Shrine at Tulsa. Almost his entire life has been spent in the oil fields and his capability and fidelity have been potent forces in winning his steady advancement with various companies and bringing him at length to a place where his activities are a source of substantial income to him and at the same time an element in the state and city's growth and improvement. He has belonged to the Methodist church for forty years and has been on its official board for over twenty years, is now serving on the board of the First Methodist Episcopal church in Tulsa and has also taken an active part in the Sunday school work for over twenty years in Tulsa and other towns in which he has lived.

Edison E. Oberholtzer, M. A., Ll. D.

Edison E. Oberholtzer, who for the eighth year is filling the office of superintendent of the public schools in Tulsa, has with marked capability met and discharged the increasing duties that have devolved upon him as the result of the rapid growth and development of the city. University training of a most thorough character well qualified him for the onerous and responsible duties of the profession and his initiative has enabled him to meet the conditions that have arisen through Tulsa's rapid expansion. Mr. Oberholtzer is a native of Indiana, his birth having occurred on a farm in Owen county, near Patricksburg, on the 6th of May, 1880. His father, Augustus Oberholtzer, was born in Holmes county, Ohio, and became a mill contractor and lumber mill worker. A life of activity was brought to its close when in October, 1894, he passed away at Harrison House, Indiana, at the age of fifty-two years. He belonged to the Presbyterian church and was very active in its work. He wedded Mary A.

History Of Tulsa 707

Collins, born in Hardin county, Kentucky, who first united with the Methodist Episcopal church and later with the United Brethren church. They had a family of eleven children, five sons and six daughters.

Nothing in the early youth of Professor Oberholtzer foreshadowed his future career as one of the prominent educators of this state. He attended the district schools and afterward the high school of Clay City, Indiana, and then became a student in Westfield College at W'estfield, Illinois, where he studied in [895- 96. He was afterward graduated from the Indiana State Normal School at Terre Haute in 1906, with the Bachelor of Arts degree and received the degree of B. L. from Lincoln-jefferson University, while his work in the University of Chicago won him the Ph. B. degree in 1910 and the Master of Arts degree in 1915. He has completed considerable work toward the Doctor's degree at the University of Chicago and in Columbia University of Xew York, and on the 31st of May, 1921, the degree of LP. D. was conferred upon him by the University of Tulsa. To a reporter for Tulsa School Life, President T. Si. Gordon of the University of Tulsa said: "To my mind there are two things necessary for an honor of this kind to have its fullest weight. In the first place, the institution conferring the degree must have been exceedingly careful and sparing in its bestowal of honors, lest they become commonplace. In the entire twentysix years of the history of Henry Kendall College only two men have had an honorary degree conferred upon them by the institution, and in each case the degree Doctor of Divinity was given. The other thing is that for an honor of this or any other kind to bring its fullest satisfaction it must come unsought. I happen to know very definitely that in this case there was never a suggestion either directly or indirectly from your superintendent that this be done. The University of Tulsa is happy because at its first commencement it is able to give definite recognition for the great system of public schools in Tulsa and to honor the man who is largely responsible for the fine work that is being done."

Long before pursuing his university courses Mr. Oberholtzer had entered upon the profession of teaching, taking up that work in Indiana in 1898. when in his nineteenth year. He has devoted twenty-three years to teaching, being first engaged as an instructor in Clay county, Indiana, from 1899 until 1903. During the following two years he acted as superintendent of schools at Carbon, Indiana, and in 1906 became a teacher in the department of mathematics in the Indiana State Normal School at Terre Haute. From 1907 until 1909 he served as supervising principal of the Terre Haute public schools, while in 1910 he was made district superintendent of public schools at Evansville, Indiana, and during the years 191 1 and 1912 acted as public school superintendent at Clinton. Indiana. In 1913 he came to Tulsa to accept the position of superintendent of the city schools. Here he has since remained and has done a splendid workin the upbuilding and development of the public schools of the city, being recognized not only as an educator of great ability but as a splendid executive. He has thoroughly organized the work under his direction and, moreover, he inspires teachers and pupils under him with much of his own zeal and enthusiasm. He belongs to the Xational Education Association and is its director for the state of Oklahoma. He is also a member of the council of the Xational Education Association and through his connection with this organization and through private study and investigation is constantly seeking out new methods which will add to the effectiveness and value of the work of the Tulsa schools.

When Mr. Oberholtzer took charge of the Tulsa city schools in 1913 there was an enrollment of four thousand eight hundred and forty-two pupils. In 1921 this number totals fifteen thousand and eighty-two, an increase of over three hundred per cent. This trebling of the school population has made necessary a similar increase in school buildings and in the teaching force, the development of a business system and the organization of a supervisory and administrative force. Since he has had charge of the city schools a strong home economics department, manual training, kindergarten, art, music, physical training, and health departments have become permanent features of the school system. Junior high schools, departmentalized work in the sixth, seventh and eighth grades, a fouryear schedule and twelve months pay for teachers and an all-year school for pupils who need extra time, have been permanently established.

On the 26th of March, 1899, Dr. Oberholtzer was married to Miss Myrtle May Barr. a native of Indiana and a daughter of James F. and Louisa Barr. They are the parents of three children: Kenneth E., sixteen years of age, now a student in the University of Illinois ; Esther A., fourteen years of age ; and Edison E., Jr.. a lad of four summers.

Dr. Oberholtzer finds his recreation in the out-of-doors and he is connected with the City Club as one of its board of governors, while of the Young Men's Christian Association he is a director. He is likewise a thirty-second degree Scottish Rite Mason and a member of Akdar Temple of the Mystic Shrine. He likewise holds membership with the Knights of Pythias and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and is serving on the board of stewards of the First Methodist Episcopal church. An eminent American statesman has said: "In all this world the thing supremely worth having is the opportunity, coupled with the capacity, to do well and worthily a piece of work the doing of which shall be of vital significance to mankind." The opportunity and capacity have been and are his and the splendid school system of Tulsa stands as the monument to his high standards and his activity in his chosen field.

Waite Phillips

Waite Phillips was born in Conway, Iowa, January 19, 1883, his parents being Lewis F. and Lucinda (Faucett) Phillips, and acquired a public school education there, after which he attended the Normal College of Shenandoah, Iowa. On the 30th day of March, 1909, Mr. Phillips was married to Miss Genevieve Elliott of Knoxville, Iowa, and they are parents of a daughter and son: Helen Jane and Elliott.

Mr. Phillips' first business experience was gained in Knoxville, Iowa, where he was employed by the Hawkeye Coal Company and afterwards by the Rex Coal & Mining Company. His residence in Oklahoma dates from 1906, in which year he settled in Bartlesville and there he became associated with his brothers, Frank and L. E. Phillips, in the oil business. Through the intervening period he has given his attention to all phases of this enterprise. In 191 5 he began operations as an individual oil producer and has met with very substantial success in the conduct of his interests. He now owns some of the most valuable producing properties in the mid-continent field and is also successfully engaged in transporting, refining and marketing petroleum products. In addition to his activities in the oil business Mr. Phillips owns and manages a large stock ranch near Denver, Colorado, where his family spend the summer months. So rapidly has he advanced that his rise partakes of the spectacular, yet an analyzation of his career shows that his progress has resulted from keen discrimination, sound judgment and indefatigable energy. He formulates his plans carefully and is determined in their execution and as the years have passed he has come to Inranked with the prominent oil producers of Oklahoma and is classed with the representative business men of Tulsa, where he resides.

William Dean Shedden

Among Tulsa's most prominent, enterprising and successful business men are those who are operating in the oil fields of the mid-continent district. Of this number is William Dean Shedden, who since 1909 has concentrated his attention upon the oil game. He was born on a farm near Shawnee, in Johnson county. Kansas, April 6, 1879, his birthplace being one of the typical log cabins of the frontier. His father, Clarence Russell Shedden, was born in Washingtonville, Montour county, Pennsylvania, January 2, 1854, and was a son of Andrew R, and Elizabeth Jane (Dean) Shedden. Clarence R. Shedden after reaching adult age wedded Mary Jane Tweed, who was born July 3, 1853, and both traced their ancestry back to Revolutionary times. The great-grandfather Tweed was a merchantman during the War of 1812 and it was a member of the Tweed family who established the first state paper in Pennsylvania. James Montgomery Shedden, born August 12. 1744, became the owner of large land holdings in Virginia and died August 13, 1817. Clarence Russell Shedden, father of William D. Shedden, removed westward to Michigan in young manhood and in 1876 became a resident of Kansas, where he purchased lands and made his home until 1886. He then removed to Kansas City, Missouri, and became identified with I). M. Edgerton in building the first street railway tunnel on Eighth street. He also ran the first train and collected the first fare. The company built the viaduct and railroad connecting the two Kansas Citys, and after some years' connection with street railway operations in Kansas City, Mr. Shedden, in 1891, returned to his farm in Johnson county, Kansas, where he owned one of the finest farms and the best stock in that section of the country. He was a most enterprising and progressive man and his advice was frequently sought upon business affairs and matters of public concern. His upright life gained for him the respect of all and was in consistent harmony with his profession as a member and elder of the Presbyterian church. In politics he was a republican and his fellow townsmen, appreciating his worth and ability, frequently called him to public office.

William D. Shedden obtained a public school education in Kansas City, Missouri, and afterward worked his way through Park College at Parkville, that state. He devoted two years to teaching and became principal of the schools of Edgerton, Kansas. In 1900 he turned his attention to the life insurance business at Topeka. Kansas, and later went to Kansas City, where he was general agent for the Franklin Life Insurance Company. In 1909 he went east and settling in Philadelphia there became engaged in the oil business, leasing and operating. He made valuable associations with eastern capitalists and as a result has operated in Indiana and Illinois. He is an independent operator and in 19 13 came to Tulsa, since which time he has directed his efforts in the mid-continent oil fields.

Mr. Shedden turns to hunting and fishing for recreation. He is a member of the Petroleum Club and while in Gardner. Kansas, became a member of the Masonic lodge and the Eastern Star and afterward joined the Royal Arch chapter and Knights Templar Commandery at Great Bend, Kansas, while at Salina, Kansas, he became a member of the Mystic Shrine. His religious faith is that of the Presbyterian church and he is ever most loyal to any cause which he espouses.

Those who know him recognize that his promise is as good as his bond and that what he says he will do. He is dependable as well as energetic and by reason of his sterling qualities has been able to form associations that have brought him to the front in connection with the oil development of the country.

Major Charles William Daley

Major Charles William Daley of the inspectors general department of the Oklahoma National Guard and inspector of the police department of Tulsa, was born February 6, 1884, in New York city, his parents being Charles and Margaret (O'Neil) Daley, both of whom were natives of Ireland. After coming to the United States the father won prominence in athletic circles in connection with baseball, handball and other sports. He passed away in 1888.

Major Daley spent his early boyhood days in a convent school at West Chester, New York, there remaining to the age of eleven years. When twelve years of age he ran away from home and afterward attended St. Rose's school at Lima, Ohio. While in that state he served a term of enlistment in the Ohio National Guard. He was always fond of athletics, played football and boxed and -became in time a professional athlete. In this connection he has traveled all over the United States. He has likewise always been a lover of horses and is a splendid rider and in 1904 was at the St. Louis Exposition with Zach Mulhall's rough riders. At a subsequent period he went to Denver, Colorado, where he was a professional boxer, fighting at one hundred and thirty-three pounds. From the age of twelve years he has been dependent on his own resources and whatever success he has achieved or enjoyed is attributable entirely to his own capability. From Denver he came to Oklahoma and was engaged in the cigar business at Nowata from 1908 until 191 1. In the latter year he removed to Tulsa, where he established and conducted business under the name of the C. W. Daley Cigar Company. His trade steadily grew and from time to time he established branches, having cigar stands at Third and Boston and in the Palace, the Daniel, Exchange National Bank, and the Cosden buildings. He is still actively engaged in the cigar business, enjoying an extensive patronage along that line.

When Company C, of the National Guard, was organized in June, 1916, he was the first man to enlist, but when the regiment reached Fort Sill, a physical disability prevented him from going farther. However, when the Home Guard of Tulsa was organized he was again the first man to enlist and served in the Home Guard as a private, as sergeant, as first sergeant and as sergeant major. The Home Guard was a training school for those who entered the Federal service and after the men who had been thus trained reached camp they made such excellent record that camp commanders from the various draft camps wrote letters of congratulations to the officers of the Tulsa Home Guard. The men in the latter organization served without pay and purchased their own equipment. While the draft was in force Major Daley, in spite of the fact that he had an extensive business to care for, was before the draft board and asked to be taken in place of young men who were working for him that had others dependent upon them. When B Company and C company of the Tulsa Home Guard were consolidated Major Daley became a second lieutenant in February, 1918. When a company was raised and became a part of the second Regiment of the Oklahoma Guard, August 31, 1918, Major Daley was promoted to first lieutenant of Company C of the Second Regiment Oklahoma National Guard. The 31st of Jan- uary, 191S, brought him promotion to the captaincy. In order to obtain his commission in the Second Regiment of the Oklahoma .National Guard it was necessary for him, at his own expense, to undergo a dangerous and expensive operation. All this time he had been engaged in the cigar business, but sold his various stands, save one, in order that he might give his time to military affairs, lie was likewise one of the Four-Minute men and spoke on many occasions in order to inform the public on the real issues of the war and the conditions brought about thereby. He raised and organized three companies at Tulsa, one each at Sapulpa and Claremore and for seven months was engaged on recruiting duty. I In the 18th of August, 1920, he was promoted to the rank of major of infantry, commanding the Second Battalion, but upon the recommendation of Adjutant General C. F. Barrett and the examining board composed of regular army officers he was made a major in the inspectors general department of the Oklahoma National Guard. He has been very active in all affairs pertaining to the National Guard and was in charge of the guard while on duty in connection with the strikes in Coalgate and Henryetta. On the 4th of May. 1920, he was appointed inspector of the Tulsa police department, with the rank of assistant chief. His life has thus largely been given to public service and the value of his labor has been widely acknowledged.

In politics Major Daley is a democrat when national questions and issues are involved, but at local elections casts an independent ballot and he put into effect civil service in connection with the police department. He belongs to the Catholic church and for his services in connection with raising funds for the building of the Holy Family church he was presented with a loving cup by Rt. Rev. Bishop Merschat of Oklahoma City. He also belongs to the Knights of Columbus and for four years was district deputy, but refused further advancement because of his military duties during the war. Howrever, he has been one of the foremost workers in the Tulsa Council, holding every office in the local organization. He likewise belongs to the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and the nature of his interest and activities is further indicated in the fact that he is a member of the Rotary Club, the City Club and the Chamber of Commerce.

Major Daley was married in Arkansas City, Kansas, to Miss Louise Emhoff and since 191 1 has made his home in Tulsa, where he is widely known. He stands loyally by his convictions on any question, is a man fearless in' defense of what he believes to be right and has always maintained high- standards of citizenship, while his service to his country during the World war at a sacrifice of his personal interests marks him one hundred per cent American.

James M. Berry

In the year 1907, James M. Berry became one of the organizers of the Central National Bank of Tulsa, and has since been one of its officers, filling the position of vice president at the time of this writing in 1921. While the record of a successful business man is less spectacular than that of a political leader or a military commander, it is not the less essential and not the less valuable. Ranking institutions have been called the heart of the commercial body indicating the healthfulness of trade. The safe conservative policy ever followed by the Central National Bank has made it one of the strong financial institutions of Oklahoma and its continued growth and development is attributable in large measure to the business ability and sound judgment of Mr. Berry, who had

He was born in Giles county, Tennessee, December 27, 1861, and is a son of the Rev. Harrison and Margaret (Hudson) Berry. The mother passed away at the age of thirty-seven years. The father was born and reared in the state of Illinois, belonging to one of the old pioneer families there. He prepared for the medical profession and for a number of years engaged in practice in his native state. He afterward removed to Nashville, Tennessee, and became publisher of a newspaper but eventually entered the ministry of the Cumberland Presbyterian church and continued a faithful preacher of the gospel for many years. He passed away at the venerable age of eighty-two, his memory remaining as a blessed benediction to all who knew him. In the family were but two children, the elder son being William H., now residing in Aurora, Missouri.

James M. Berry after attending the public schools of Tennessee and Kentucky, continued his education in the Sulphur Well College of Metcalf county, Kentucky, and in 1878 took up the profession of teaching in the schools of Kansas. During 1879-80 he was a teacher in the schools of Anderson county, Kansas, and following his removal to Cherryvale, Montgomery county, he entered the employ of the Exchange Bank, with which he remained from 1881 until 1887, thus gaining his initial experience in connection with the banking business and laid the foundation for his later success. He afterward became a cashier of the First National Bank of Oswego, Labette county, Kansas, where he continued until 1895 and then resigned to accept the position of cashier in the Bank of Seneca, Newton county, Missouri. He disposed of his interests in the latter state in 1906, and in the spring of 1907 became associated with J. G. McGannon in organizing the Central National Bank of Tulsa, then a small but growing town. With keen sagacity he recognized something of what the future had in store for the city and resolved to cast in his lot with the rapidly developing place. He became a cashier of the new bank and in March, 191 2, was chosen vice president. Throughout the intervening years he has given his attention to administrative direction and executive control, being the real head of the bank, directing the policy that dominates its affairs. That this policy is a safe and conservative one and yet does not hamper progressiveness is indicated in the continuous growth of the institution, which is today recognized as one of the strong financial concerns of the southwest.

On the 23d of July, 1884, at Horse Cave, Kentucky, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Berry and Miss Maude Isabelle Murray. They became parents of five children, but two have passed away, William having died at the age of twenty years, while Harold died in infancy. The surviving members of the family are Ralph H., who is now assistant of his father in the bank ; Robert G. and James K.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Berry hold membership in the First Presbyterian church to the support of which they contribute liberally, while in its work they take an active part, doing everything in their power to promote the growth of the church and extend its influence. Mr. Berry gives his political allegiance to the democratic party and keeps well informed on the question and issues of the day. He never neglects the duties of citizenship yet he never seeks nor desires public office, preferring to concentrate his efforts and attention upon his business affairs. He is one of the board of directors of the Chamber of Commerce of Tulsa and has cooperated in its well defined plans for the improvement of the city and the advancement of its civic standard. He supports many philanthropic and benevolent projects and during the World war was very active in all work that pertained to the welfare of the soldiers in camp and field, lie served on many boards, and his labors were effective forces in promoting war activities. He belongs to various clubs and fraternal organizations and is widely known and popular. An unfailing courtesy is manifest in all his relations with his fellowmen, at the same time he is forceful and resourceful in all that he undertakes. moving steadily to his objective and accomplishing his end by methods that neither seek nor require disguise. His entire course has been a constructive one not only in the upbuilding of his own fortunes but in the business development of Tulsa.

Charles Robert Porter

Charles Robert Porter, the treasurer of the United States Compression Inner Tube Company, with factory and general offices in Tulsa, was born in Jacksonville, Alabama, on the 3d of January, 1S74. His father, John Montgomery Porter, was also a native of Jacksonville, and was well known in that state as a planter and sawmill operator. He faithfully followed the teachings of Masonry and was a devoted member of the Presbyterian church to the time of his death. He married Laura Van Zandt, who was born in Calhoun county, and they became the parents of five children.

Charles Robert Porter pursued his education in the Jackson State Normal School and in the University of Maryland, from which he was graduated in 1895, with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He entered the manufacturing business in connection with D. W. Curry at Rome, Georgia, and became the president of the Porter Brothers' Farm Corporation of Cedartown, Georgia, owning a ranch of eight thousand acres in that state. He is now largely giving his attention to his ranch and orchard in north Georgia, also to his oil interests in Oklahoma. Since coming to Tulsa in 191 8 Mr. Porter has also been interested in the oil business, and is now vice president of the McLann Oil & Gas Company, with holdings in Oklahoma and Texas. In fact he has become interested in many business enterprises, all of which have profited both by his cooperation and support, owing to his enterprise and progressive business methods, his wide vision and his keen sagacity in relation to business affairs. He owns control in the largest commercial apple orchard in the southeast, seven hundred acres in apples, besides the ranch, with whitefaced cattle and pure bred Duroc hogs. Porter & Davis are the largest planters in Lowndes county, Georgia, near Valdosta, Georgia. They raise peanuts, beans, hogs and cattle. Mr. Porter gives about half his time to manufacturing and oil interests at Tulsa and the rest to the farms.

At the time of the Spanish-American war Mr. Porter responded to the country's call for troops and joined the navy, being on active duty in the West Indies on the U. S. S. Puritan, and remained in the service until his military aid was no longer needed.

On the 16th of December, 1903, Mr. Porter was united in marriage to Miss Lula M. Curry of Rome, Georgia, the youngest daughter of D. W. Curry of that place. They have one 'child: David Curry Porter. Mr. Porter is well known in Masonic circles, belonging to Oostanela Lodge, XTo. 113, A. F. & A. M. He has taken the degrees of both the York and Scottish Rites and is a life member of McAlester Consistory and of Akdar Temple of the Mystic Shrine. The nature of his interests and activities are further indicated in the fact that he has membership in the Chamber of Commerce of Tulsa, also United States Chamber of

Commerce, and cooperates in all its activities for the city's advancement. He belongs to the Petroleum Club of Tulsa, to the Capital City Club of Atlanta, Georgia, and in all the various organizations with which he is connected enjoys the highest regard of his associates. His political allegiance has always been given to the democratic party and his religious faith is that of the Methodist Episcopal church. Aside from his club and lodge connections he finds recreation and diversion in his agricultural and horticultural pursuits. He loves farming and apple culture and had made wonderful success along those lines. He is a high type of a southern gentleman and of the alert, progressive business man, and Tulsa counts him a valued addition to her citizenship.

George S. Ramsey

George S. Ramsey, attorney at law of Muskogee and Tulsa, early evinced extraordinary ability as a lawyer - fine perception, excellent memory and great industry, and with these qualities as a foundation he has built a substantial superstructure of success in his chosen profession. He was born in Viola, Tennessee, August 1 8, 1874, a son of George W. and Elizabeth (King) Ramsey, both natives of Warren county, Tennessee. George W. Ramsey was a farmer by occupation and at the time of the Civil war served with the Confederate army. He belonged to the Christian church and died in the year 1912. His widow is still living and makes her home in Muskogee. Okla. In their family were four children, three of whom survive.

George S. Ramsey obtained his early education in the common schools and pursued his law studies in the office and under the direction of Captain George W. Cross, being admitted to the bar in 1896 at Manchester, Tennessee. He opened an office in that city and there continued in practice until January, 1905, when he removed to Muskogee. There he formed a law partnership with N. A. Gibson and on the dissolution of that firm in 1908 he became senior partner in the firm of Ramsey & Thomas. This connection was maintained until the death of Mr. Thomas in 1914, after which the firm of Ramsey & de Meules was formed. This developed into the firm of Ramsey, de Meules, Rosser, Martin & King, the firm now (1921) being Ramsey, de Meules, Rosser & Martin, a combination of law talent recognized as preeminent in oil circles. Mr. Ramsey has made his home in Muskogee since coming to Oklahoma. His law work is characterized by great earnestness, by clearness of statement and by logical deduction. He possesses a broad vocabulary and is a fluent and forceful speaker - in fact those who know him well always mention his splendid attainments and the possession of almost all the qualifications of a great lawyer. Called to Tennessee in 1917 to deliver the principal address before the Tennessee Bar Association, he is said to have read one of the finest legal papers ever heard in that state. He belongs to the Muskogee Bar Association, the Oklahoma State Bar Association and the American Bar Association. In 1904 while residing in Tennessee he was nominated by the republican state convention for judge of the court of appeals and led the ticket.

On the 30th of November, 1898, Mr. Ramsey was married to Miss Earline Young, who died in 1918, leaving a daughter, Margaret, seven years of age. On the 4th of January, 1920, Mr. Ramsey wedded Frances Frierson, a native of Tennessee. He has membership in the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and also in the Muskogee Town and Country Club, for while practicing in Tulsa, he retains his residence in Muskogee. Mr. Ramsey is a most congenial companion. His conversation is always enlivened by wit and apt anecdote and reminiscence. He is a wide reader, keeping well informed on all questions of general interest, and is familiar with the best literature, while his professional standing places him among the eminent lawyers practicing at the Oklahoma bar.

Clarence B. Douglas

Clarence B. Douglas was born in Jefferson City. Missouri, ( Ictober 19, 1864, a son of George B. and Margaret Ann Douglas. He was married to Annie Van Syckle at Cosmopolis, Washington, in 1S89. He moved to Texas in 1876 and in 1884 came to Indian Territory, where he lived until 1889, when he went to Washington Territory, remaining there until 1893. In the latter year he returned to Ardmore, Indian Territory, a city founded by his father. He followed the profession of architecture until 1896 and was then admitted to the bar of the Southern District of Indian Territory. He was elected delegate to represent the white people of Indian Territory before congress by seventeen mass conventions, representing towns, Indian nations, Indian Territory and Oklahoma Territory. During the period from 1893 to 1907, covering thirteen years, he was active in the battle for statehood for Oklahoma. He was with the Dawes Commission in the United States Indian Service at Muskogee in 1900, 1901 and 1902. In 1902 he purchased the "Muskogee Daily and Weekly Phoenix," the only Associated Press paper in Indian Territory, of which he was the editor and publisher for six years. He organized and was captain of Company A, Indian Territory Volunteer Militia, Muskogee, I. T. He organized and was elected colonel of the First Regiment of Indian Territory Volunteer Militia and organized the first military company of Tulsa in 1905. Mr. Douglas was the republican nominee for the United States senate in the first session of the Oklahoma state legislature, being the unanimous choice of all the republican members of the house and senate. He served on the staff of Governor Cruce for four years with the rank of colonel. He served as president of the Indian Territory Press Association and was the first national committeeman from the state of Oklahoma in the National Editorial Association. He was given important commissions by Chief Pleasant Porter, of the Creek Nation; Chief Tom Buffington, of the Cherokee Nation; Chief John Brown, of the Seminole Nation; Chief Douglas Johnson, of the Chickasaw Nation, and Governor Green McCurtain, of the Choctaw Nation, and has held important commissions from Governors C. M. Barnes. Tom Ferguson and Frank Frantz of Oklahoma Territory and from Governors Haskell. Cruce. Williams and Robertson of Oklahoma since statehood. At Muskogee he organized the first Indian congress ever held and was formally adopted by the Pueblo Indians into their tribe and given the title of Honorable Chief, with the Indian name of Oshotawa- Chemushata, meaning "man with hair on his face from the east." He came to Tulsa in 1916 as managing director of the Tulsa Chamber of Commerce. For three years he served as president of the State Association of Commercial Executives. He is the author of "Prominent Men of Indian Territory." "A Book O' Verse" and numerous magazine articles on Indian Territory and Oklahoma. During the World war he was a member of the Tulsa County Council of Defense, food administrator for Tulsa county, president of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Council, captain of the American Protective League, publicity director for the Third Libertv Loan, member of the Four-Minute men and chairman of the Tulsa

Vigilance Committee, lie is a member of the Tulsa Advertising Club, the Rotary Club, the Lions' Club, the Automobile Club, the City Club and the Tulsa-Ozark Club. For four years he was national councilor from the Tulsa Chamber of Commerce to the United States Chamber of Commerce and is now president of the Tulsa County Historical Society and editor of The Tulsa Spirit.

Thomas Jefferson Hartman

Thomas Jefferson Ilartman was born at Roaring Springs, Blair county, Pennsylvania, November 23, 1874, being so named by his father, who was a republican in politics as was also Thomas Jefferson Hartman until discussing free silver and protective tariff with his father resulted in a change in his politics. In 1879, when a little lad of five years, he accompanied his parents on their removal to Mitchell county, Kansas, where the family lived in a sod house without a floor and were obliged to fight fleas, bedbugs, prairie wolves and rattlesnakes. The following year they made their way to Cass county, Missouri, where Thomas J. Hartman began his education at the little red schoolhouse. He suffered all the ills that a child is heir to and was vaccinated for smallpox.

In 1882 the Hartman family removed to Linn county, Kansas, on the Marais des Cygnes river, where Thomas learned to swim, fish, and shoot a squirrel's eye out with an old 'patch ball rifle. There he first learned that he would rather go to school than grub stumps and pile brush on the farm. In 1892 he came with his parents to Oklahoma, his father's principal assets at that time consisting of eight children and some live stock. Thomas Jefferson was then eighteen years of age and felt that he should begin to earn his own living. He left the family fireside and informed the president of the Agricultural and Mechanical College at Stillwater that the world owed him a living. While earning it he graduated from the college in 1898 - after he had learned exactly how many copper cents it took to make a silver dollar. He was a member of the board of regents and treasurer of the college from icjot until Oklahoma was admitted to statehood in 1907. He entered the banking business in 1899, organized the Producers State Bank in 1915 and was president of the Oklahoma Bankers Association in 1912 and 1913. He is a member of the State Banking Board and also a member of the executive committee of the American Bankers Association and a member of the administrative committee of that organization.

Mr. Hartman is also very active in civic affairs and a director of the Chamber of Commerce. He has been very successful as a hunter, having trophies of nearly every kind of big game to be found on the American continent, and it is generally conceded that he is one of the most widely known men in Oklahoma.

William Mervin Bovaird

The marvelous development of Tulsa is largely attributable to the development of the oil fields in this section and in connection therewith opportunity has been offered to establish and conduct many successful business enterprises which are today important commercial features in the southwest. With a recognition of the attractiveness of this field and the chances offered for business progress, William Mervin Bovaird has become the secretary-treasurer of the Bovaird

History Of Tulsa 721

Supply Company, handling oil well supplies, with offices in the Kennedy building in Tulsa. He is an alert, wide-awake and progressive young business man, who already has attained a point of success that many a man of twice his years might well envy. He was born in Bradford, Pennsylvania. May 21, 1890, his parents being William J. and Anna L. ( Davis) Bovaird, both of whom are natives of the Keystone state, the mother's birth having occurred in Mercer county. They are now residing at Independence, Kansas, and have reared a family of seven children. Their religious belief is that of the Presbyterian church and in fraternal connections Mr. Bovaird is a Mason.

Having begun his education in the public schools of his native city, W. Mervin Bovaird continued his studies in the high school at Independence, Kansas, having accompanied his parents on their removal to the Sunflower state in early boyhood. He afterward entered the employ of the Bovaird Supply Company in 1909, when a youth of nineteen years, and served that concern in various capacities, thus acquainting himself with the oil well supply business. He continued with the firm until January, 1914, as an employe and was then elected secretary and treasurer of the company to succeed I. 1'. Flanagan. He came to Tulsa in January, 1914, and throughout the intervening period has been connected with the oil well supply business, having as his patrons many of the leading oil corporations of the southwest. His energy and enterprise have contributed to the steady growth and development of the trade, which is now one of large and gratifying proportions.

Mr. Bovaird has an interesting military chapter in his life history, for he served as a sergeant of Company I of the Forty-fourth Infantry during the World war. He went to Camp Fort Logan, Colorado, was also at Camp Lewis, Washington, and at the Presidio in San Francisco.

Mr. Bovaird is a Mason, belonging to the lodge at Independence, Kansas. He has also taken the degrees of the York and Scottish Rites and is a member of Akdar Temple of the Mystic Shrine and belongs to its patrol. He is likewise a member of the Tulsa Country Club and of the Petroleum Club and his position in the social circles of Tulsa is an enviable one. Moreover, he is recognized as a dynamic force in business affairs, for every opportunity is to him a call to action and the wise use that he has made of his advantages has placed him in a prominent position in connection with those business affairs which have had their root in the development of the oil fields of the state. Mr. Bovaird gives his political allegiance to the republican party, while his religious faith is that of the Presbyterian church.

Thomas Frank Birmingham

What Tulsa would have been without the oil discoveries of this section it is perhaps impossible to determine. It is definitely known, however, that its growth would have been much slower and less spectacular, for its advancement would have had to depend largely upon the development of the surrounding agricultural district. But when Tulsa "came in" as one of the richest oil fields of the entire country, the change was magical and to this district have come many of the most progressive and enterprising oil men of the United States. Thomas Frank Birmingham is now the president of the Margay Oil Corporation, a business organization which is a credit to the state. If it is true that opportunity knocks but once, he made immediate response to her summons, for since starting out in the business world his course has been marked by steady progress. He was born in White county, Arkansas, April 6, 1869, but when only three years of age was taken to Texas by his parents, Dr. E. L. and L. C. (Thomas) Birmingham. The father became a physician of Uvalde, Texas, and remained a resident of that state to the time of his death in 18S2. He served as a member of' the Confederate army during the Civil war and he was always a loyal follower of Masonic teachings. His wife, a native of Arkansas, became the mother of five children, four of whomsurvive.

Thomas Frank Birmingham, after mastering the branches of learning taught' in the public schools of Uvalde, Texas, continued his education in Baylor University of that state. He then initiated his business career by securing a position in a bank at San Antonio, Texas, where he was receiving teller for a short time. He next went to Uvalde, Texas, where he engaged in merchandising for two years and then moved to Wylie, that state, where he remained for a number of years. He was very prominent in commercial circles in Texas and was recognized as one of the men of affairs in that state. In 1913 he came to Tulsa, where he has since resided. He had become identified with the oil industry, however, in Texas seventeen years ago and he is now active as one of the oil producers of the Tulsa fields, being at the head of the Margay Oil Corporation, a company composed of high-class business men engaged in oil production, with large capital and with attractive offices in the new Roberts building at Sixth and Alain streets in Tulsa. In addition to Mr. Birmingham the officers are: John I. Taylor, treasurer, who has been a lifelong friend and business associate of Mr. Birmingham; and Arthur H. Mayginnes, who is now secretary.

In 1889 Mr. Birmingham was united in marriage to Miss Hattie Housewright, of Piano, Texas, a daughter of L. N. Housewright, one of the early settlers of the Lone Star state. Mr. and Mrs. Birmingham have become parents of three children: F. O. died at the age of twenty-one years; E. L., twenty-seven years of age, is now associated with the Margay Oil Corporation. He married Cecil Daniel and has three children : Louis, Frank and Lolledge ; the daughter, Elsie, married W. R. Cartwell, of Tulsa.

Fraternally Mr. Birmingham is connected with the Knights of Pythias and with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He largely derives his recreation and diversion from reading and he finds his greatest happiness at his own fireside, his best traits of character being reserved for the home circle.

C. Kexxfth Abbott

C. Kenneth Abbott dates his residence in Tulsa from December, 191 5, and is prominently known as the manager of the Independent Torpedo Company. Enterprise and progress have brought him prominently to the front in the business circles of this city, yet his attention is by no means confined to business activities. He recognizes his duties and obligations in other connections and finds keen joy in contributing to the happiness of poor children at Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and other times in the year, his humanitarian spirit being one of his marked characteristics. Mr. Abbott is a native of Bowling Green, Ohio. He was born March 1, 1 89 1 , a son of Charles E. and Minnie (Cook) Abbott, who were also natives of the Buckeye state. The father, a dry goods merchant, is still active in business at Leipsic, Ohio, and is prominent in connection with local civic affairs, standing at all times for advancement and improvement in everything related to the welfare of his city. His religious faith is that of the Methodist Episcopal church and he and his wife are loyal followers of its teachings.

C. Kenneth Abbott, one of a family of three children, began his education in the public schools of Findlay, Ohio, and passed through consecutive grades to his graduation from high school and from a business college. He was afterwards identified with a large clay pottery company of Findlay, Ohio, for six years, and then became representative of the Independent Torpedo Company of Findlay, Ohio. In this connection he came to Tulsa in December, 1915, acting as western representative of the company, which does an extensive business in the oil district. He is a most alert and energetic young business man, of whom those who know him speak in terms of the highest regard. He is likewise the president of the Associated Tin Company of Ranger, Texas, which has factories in Tulsa. In a business way he seems ready to meet any emergency witli the strength that comes from a right conception of things and an habitual regard tor what is best in the exercise of human activity.

On the 25th of March, 1916, Mr. Abbott was married to Miss Helen Marvin of Findlay, Ohio, and they have one daughter, Mary Louise. Mr. and Mrs. Abbott have membership in the Methodist church and he is identified with the Elks lodge of Findlay, Ohio. His Christianity is of a most practical character, manifest in his active aid of many philanthropic and civic interests, and one of his personal charities is a gift of a Thanksgiving dinner to poor boys of Tulsa and a Christmas celebration to the children in the Detention Home, when a Christmas tree is prepared and gifts most liberally distributed. Mr. Abbott is a young man of high ideals as well as of marked business ability and is a citizen of whom Tulsa has every reason to be proud.

Hon. John O. Mitchell

Many and varied were the activities which brought John O. Mitchell to the position which he occupied in Tulsa. Here he was known as a most resourceful and forceful business man whose judicious investments and carefully directed interests gained him classification with the capitalists of the state. Moreover, he was regarded as a leading citizen and one whose devotion to the public good was never a matter of question. Many tangible evidences of his interest in the city and in the welfare of the state could be cited and not a little of Tulsa's growth and development is attributable directly to his labors. To him came the honor of serving as the first president of the commission plan of government in Oklahoma, for Tulsa was the first city of the state to adopt this method of municipal management and control. As commission mayor he gave to the city a most businesslike and progressive administration, the valuable benefits of which are still felt. He dated his residence here from 1904 and his course was at all times in harmony with the rapid progress and development of the city, whose growth seems almost magical when we remember that at the beginning of the present century Tulsa's population was less than fifteen hundred.

Mr. Mitchell was a native of Dade county, Missouri, his birth having there occurred on the 22d of October. 1858, his parents being DeWitt C. and Nancy (Carey) Mitchell, who were natives of Tennessee. The father was born on the Holston river, not far from Knoxville, Tennessee, in 1833. and he passed away in Missouri in 1880. when but forty-seven years of age. He became a resident of

Dade county in 1855, there casting in his lot with the pioneer settlers who reclaimed that district for the purposes of civilization. His attention was given to farming and stock raising and the careful and wise management of his affairs made him one of the prosperous agriculturists of his community. His political allegiance was given to the republican party, but he never sought the honors nor emoluments of office. At the time of the Civil war, however, his patriotic spirit surmounted all other interests and he became a soldier of the Union army, participating in the battle of Wilson's Creek on the 10th of August, 1861, when General Lyons lost his life. The mother, Mrs. Mitchell, was born in Jefferson, Tennessee, and lived to an advanced age, passing away in 1908.

John O. Mitchell, who was the third in order of birth in a family of ten children, spent his youthful days in southern Missouri and after mastering the branches of learning taught in the public schools he became a student at Ozark College. He then took up the profession of teaching, which he followed for eight years in connection with various schools, but he did not regard this as his life work and as opportunity offered extended his efforts into other fields. He became" connected with farming and stock raising and also conducted a general merchandise store. His farming interests proved very successful and he constantly added to his holdings until he was one of the leading agriculturists of his part of the state. For many years he was prominently known as a buyer of cattle, hogs and mules for the Kansas City market. His holdings in southern Missouri were extensive, including fourteen hundred acres of land near Lockwood, this farm being very productive and thereby constituting a source of substantial revenue. He became a stockholder and director of the Dade County Bank, remaining on its board until his removal to Tulsa in August, 1904, when he resigned. His business at all times was most carefully managed and the soundness of his judgment and his keen discrimination were manifest in the results achieved. Moreover, Mr. Mitchell became recognized as one of the prominent political leaders of Missouri during his residence in that state. Without seeking the nomination he was made a candidate on the democratic ticket for the office of general assemblyman in a county that normally gives a strong republican majority. His personal popularity and the confidence reposed in him by his fellow townsmen led to a marked reduction in the republican vote, his opponent winning the election by a plurality of but eighty. Mr. Mitchell served as a member of the convention which nominated David Francis for governor of Missouri at Sedalia. In various ways he swayed public thought and opinion in his community and shaped its political history, his influence being ever on the side of progress and improvement.