History of Boone County Missouri PDF

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HISTORY
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BOONE COUNTY , MISSOURI.
VOLUME 2
WRITTEN AND COMPILED
FROM THE MOST AUTHENTIC OFFICIAL AND PRIVATE SOURCES ;
INCLUDING A HISTORY OF ITS
TOWNSHIPS, TOWNS AND VILLAGES .
TOGETHER WITH
A CONDENSED HISTORY OF MISSOURI ; THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS ; A RELIABLE AND

DETAILED HISTORY OF BOONE COUNTY- ITS PIONEER RECORD, WAR HISTORY,
RESOURCES, BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES AND PORTRAITS OF PROMINENT
CITIZENS; GENERAL AND LOCAL STATISTICS OF GREAT VALUE,
AND A LARGE AMOUNT OF LEGAL AND MISCELLANEOUS
MATTER ; INCIDENTS AND REMINISCENCES ,
GRAVE , TRAGIC , HUMOROUS.
be
į M.F. Switzler ]
ILLUSTRATED .
&
ST. LOUIS :
WESTERN HISTORICAL COMPANY.
188 2 .
Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1882, by
WILLIAM F. SWITZLER ,
In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington .
St. Louis : Press of Nixon - Jones Printing Co.

---- -
472
B6
H6
HISTORY OF BOONE COUNTY . 539
geco
CHAPTER XV .
BOURBON TOWNSHIP .
Position and Description - Geology and Archæology - Early Settlements – Itemsof Early
History - Organization – War Times — Burning of the Sturgeon Bridge — Destruction
of the Railroad – Skirmish in Riggs's Pasture — Sentenced to be Shot - Jim Jackson's
Fight - Hanging of Amos Judy -- Anecdotes - Miscellaneous - Storios by “ Uncle
Durrett Bruce -- “ Uncle ” John Alexander - Railroad Fires — The Shroyer Murder
Shooting of Rowland by Wade - Old Petersburg — McCauley's Mill — School Houses
Country Churches - Cemeteries — The Town of Sturgeon — Early History — “ Buena
Vista ” – The “ Firsts ” – Early Days in Sturgeon - In Time of War - Fires — Stur
geonites in “ Nigger Wool" Swamp — Killing of Benj. Croswhite — Industries, Institu
tions, Associations, etc. Court of Common Pleas - Official History - Churches
Civic Orders - Schools - Cemetery — The " Leader ” – Biographies of Old Settlers and
Prominent Citizens of Bourbon Township .
POSITION AND DESCRIPTION .
Bourbon township is the northwest corner township of Boone

county . It comprises all of township 51, range 12 , and township
51, range 13 , and fractional township 51, range 14 , — running to the
Howard County line on the west, and to Centralia township on the
east. It is bounded on the north by Randolph and Audrain counties,
and on the south by Perche and Rocky Fork townships.
Its surface is mingled prairie and timber . Some of the timber land
is covered with thin soil, as is a portion of the prairie , but in general
the land is very fertile . The few tracts of bottom land are remark
able for grass. In 1872 Mr. W. G. Ridgway , of Sturgeon , cut three
tons of hay from one acre of meadow , which he sold for $ 26 . The
grass was fully five feet high, and was so rank and heavy that it fell
and “ lodged ” and could not be cut with a mowing machine , but was
mown with a scythe. From sixteen acres Mr. R. secured a crop of
about forty tons. The land was rich bottom .
SOME GEOLOGICAL AND ARCHÆOLOGICAL FEATURES.
Coal and Iron Ore. — Along Perche Creek and in the vicinity
there is a considerable quantity of a good article of coal. Banks have
been opened and worked successfully . A great deal of the coal has
been shipped to Sturgeon and Rocheport. Iron ore is also to be
found, but not in sufficient quantities as yet to justify the erection of
furnaces .
540 HISTORY 'OF BOONE COUNTY .
Red Granite . – Some substantial and valuable deposits of fine red

granite are to be found six or seven miles southeast of Sturgeon , in
this township and in Rocky Fork and Perche . The stone is to be
found in great abundance . It was discovered by Dr. A. Titus and
W.H. Welch — or first developed by them . Red Rock Church , in
Perche township , is named from the abundance of this peculiar kind of
stone in its neighborhood .
Plaster Sand . -- On the premises of Mr. Wm . Dinwiddie , that
gentleman dug a well twenty -six feet deep . At the depth of thirteen
feet below the surface , a vein of fine white sand was struck which ran
down about thirteen feet further, when a stratum of gravel was
reached and the water . The sand proved to be excellent for plaster
er's use .
Remarkable Cave . — In the northwest quarter of section 34 , tp .

51, range 13 , is located a cave with some very remarkable character
istics . It has been explored to an extent of 200 yards, where is
reached a house , naturally formed of solid rock . In its greatest
breadth it makes a very good sized room . This cilve was stopped up
by some railroad men , who built a culvert and filled up the mouth,
or entrance at which used to flow a large spring of very cold water.
On one occasion , in early days , some dogs chased a panther into this
cave, and their owners were forced to enter after them in order
to save them . There are many incidents narrated in connection
with the history of this cave , which must be omitted for want of
rooin .
Panther Cave . About half a mile north of the cave above
described is Panther Cave, so called from the fact that in pioneer days
it was infested by panthers in dangerous numbers, and their fierce
howlings and snarlings many a time chilled the blood of many a
traveler who came upon the den unawares . It is not so large as the
first cave, but is well worth a visit to see. Not far from it, and
within a short distance of the larger cave are two cylindrical openings ,
in the earth called “ sink holes , ” having the appearance of walled
wells , and being of considerable depth .
Fine Spring. – On the northeast quarter of section 34 , tp . 51,
range 13 , on the premises now owned by Willis Brundege , Esq ., there
is a very large and fine spring of good water .
The Mound -Builders. — Evidences of the presence at one time in
this township of thatmysterious race known as the Mound -Builders,
are plenty . Numerous mounds exist and have existed , specimens of
-
-- -
pottery have been found , and flint arrow -heads can be picked up in
great abundance . John Alexander has quite a collection of arrow
and lance heads, which were gathered in this township .
Along Roche Perche Creek , starting from Perche Church and
following the creek down about two miles , are numerous mounds, the
work , undoubtedly , of the famed mound-builders. These mounds
are from three to six feet in height, and , on an average , are from 100
to 200 yards apart . They number about twenty well-defined speci
mens . Dr. Davis , of Sturgeon , and Wm . Prowell opened one of
these mounds on the farm of the latter . In the center they found a
perfect vault, the roof of which was covered with stones. In this
vault lay a large skeleton . It measured seven inches across the fore
head and the size of the other bones was in proportion . The general
form and character of the mounds indicate that they are of the sepul
chral kind ; that is , they are merely resting places for the dead .
Several other skeletons and parts of skeletons were taken out ofother
mounds in Mr. Prowell's field . Many of the mounds are covered
with heavy timber , some of which is hundreds of years old , per
haps. There is a peculiar yellow or mulatto soil along where the
mounds occur, but the elevations themselves seem to be of common
earth .
Mr. McCauley says that in 1876 , on opening one of the mounds , a
pipe was found . It was made of clay and had been burned or baked
like a piece of pottery . It was of ordinary size , and seemed to have
been placed in the hand of the Indian with whom it was buried . The
bowl was thought to contain ashes and soot, as though it had been
used and not well cleaned just before burial. The mouth - piece of the
stem was considerably worn as if by the teeth of the owner . The
pipe was sent to the Centennial Exhibition at Philadelphia , in 1876 .
EARLY SETTLEMENTS .
It is stated that the first settler in this township was a man named
Riggs, who located three miles south of where Sturgeon now stands
and built a cabin , as early as the year 1818 . This property now be
longs to Mr. Daniel Mayer , of Sturgeon . Again it is asserted that
Jack Lynch and —— Runnels were the first settlers in what is now
Bourbon township . Nothing very definite or explicit can be learned ,
however, regarding these settlements .
Robert Rowland settled on the northeast quarter of section 35 ,
township 51, range 13 , near the Perche line, about the year 1827 .
542 HISTORY OF BOONE COUNTY .
Robert Schooling came to the southeast quarter of the section where

Rowland settled in 1831,' and Woodson Evans settled near Schooling
about the same time, as did also Wm . Kincaid . Rowland and School
ing were from Kentucky. North of Schooling's settlement, in the
northeast quarter of section 26 , township 51, range 13 , Nicholas S.
Woods settled in 1832 . Ira Taylor located two and a half miles
southwest of Sturgeon some time between the years 1845 and 1848 .
Near here the first house in the Grand Prairie was built by Wm .
Green ; date not learned , neither has the date of Green's settlement
been ascertained .
In the Schooling settlement the first marriage reported is that of
Sam . Rowland and Emeline Schooling, in 1832. The marriage oc
curred at Schooling's , and the ceremony was performed by the dis
tinguished Baptist minister, Rev. Fielding Wilhite. The first death
was that of a child of Woodson Evans, about the year 1831. The
body was buried on section 2 , township 50, range 13, now Perche
township .
The first physician was Dr. Alex . Robinson , who practiced in 1835 ,
coming directly from Columbia , and to Missouri from Kentucky. He
finally went to St. Joseph . During his residence in Boone , Dr. Rob
inson represented the county in the Legislature , and after his removal
to St. Joseph , he was sent from Buchanan county to the same body.
He was an excellent physician and very popular . Dr. Hiram B.
Johnson located in 1849 or 1850 , about two and a half miles south
east of Sturgeon .
Very soon after the settlements were effected , religious services
were held . The pioneer preachers trod hard upon the heels of the
first cabin builders, and often were among the latter class themselves .
Dr. Provines, an Old School Presbyterian , held the first services in
the neighborhood , in 1832. Another pioneer preacher was Wm .
Crockett. Dr. Provines preached the first sermon at Ed . Graves's,
just across in the corner of Rocky Fork township , section 1, township
50, range 13.
The first school-house was built on section 35 , ahout 1837. It was
not an elaborate affair , but answered very well at that day . The
name of the first teacher has not been obtained , nor have the first
names of his scholars ; but it is known that the latter were the children
of Esq . Schooling, Rowland , Evans, Woods, and others .
1 One account says in 1835.

ITEMS OF EARLY HISTORY .
It is claimed that the first physician in this township was Dr. Wells .
In the year 1843 , a Dr. Taylor practiced in Pittsburg . The first house
in the prairie below Sturgeon was built by W. D. Kelly on the north
east quarter of section 20 , township 51, range 12 , in the year 1837.
Mrs. Elizabeth Kelly , wife of W. D. Kelly , is probably the oldest
living female born in Boone county . She is the daughter of Zadok
Riggs, and was born in the southern part of the county , not far from
Providence, February 1 , 1819 .
ORGANIZATION .
For many years after the organization of the county , Bourbon

township was included in Perche and Rocky Fork townships. At last ,
however , its population had increased to such an extent, and its interest
demanded that the territory now comprised therein should be erected
into a separate township . At the June term of the county court , 1854 ,
( to be exact , on the 19th of the month ) , the court made the following
order :
Ordered by the Court, That a new municipal township be erected in this county out of
parts of Perche and Rocky Fork ; to be taken out of said townships by a line running with
the township linebetween townships 50 and 51 across the county , and all that territory lying
north of said line in this county to compose the said new township, to be denominated
Bourbon Township , and it is ordered that the place of holding elections in said township be
the town of Bourbonton .
“ The town of Bourbonton was also called Buena Vista , and is

referred to in the sketch of the town of Sturgeon , on another page .
The boundaries of Bourbon township remained the same until the
creation of Centralia township . It is said that the township took its
name from Bourbonton , then its chief town ; and that the town was
named by some of the citizens who were from Bourbon county ,
Kentucky, their neighborhood being called Bourbon . It is also re
ported that the town was named from the leading brand of whisky
on draft in the place .
INCIDENTS OF THE CIVIL WAR IN BOURBON TOWNSHIP BURNING OF

THE STURGEON BRIDGE .
The first act of war, or act connected with the war history , in this
township was in June , 1861. As related to the compiler; on Saturday ,
the 15th of themonth , the railroad bridge over Sailingtown branch near
Sturgeon , was burned about 12 o'clock of that day by Sergeant
R. Bruce Ball , who claimed to be acting under special orders from Gov.
C. F. Jackson . The bridge was soon rebuilt, and trains were running
as usual.
DESTRUCTION OF THE NORTH MISSOURI RAILROAD AND SKIRMISH IN

RIGGS'S PASTURE .
On the night of December 20 , 1861, detachments of the companies

of Captains James Watson , J.J. Searcy , M.G. Corlew , Francis Petty ,
W. F. Robards ( and perhaps of F. Carson ) , all of the Confederate
service , amounting to about 250 men , under command of Capt.
Watson , raided the North Missouri Railroad and destroyed a consid
erable portion of the track of that thoroughfare in order to prevent
the passage of Federal troops , the transportation of supplies , etc.
The track was injured considerably , but not very seriously , as it was
soon rebuilt. Some bridges and trestles were burned . The men en
gaged in this work looked upon the affair as a sort of frolic to be par
ticipated in without serious consequences to themselves, but to work
great injury to their enemies and consequent benefits to the Confeder
ate cause .
The next morning after the night's operations, the greater portion
of the Confederates encamped on Z. T. Riggs's farm , near the center
of the east half of the northeast quarter of section 24 , township 51,
range 12 , or about four miles southwest of Centralia . The stoppage
was made to get breakfast . While they were eating they were sud
denly attacked by a force of Federals commanded by Major David
McKee , and believed to belong to the 7th Missouri Cavalry Volun
teers . By count the Federals numbered 110 men . The attack was a
complete surprise , and being made with great impetuosity , and the
Federals being well armed and mounted , the Confederates were soon
routed and driven in great confusion from the field .
The Confederate loss was John Onan , Jr. , and Thos. Tolson , killed ;
James Tolson mortally wounded ; Allen Pipes and Beverly Shackle
ford wounded , and a young man named McQuitty had both thighs
broken by being thrown from his horse , while trying to escape.
Capt. Watson was slightly wounded , and others were scratched.
The Federals had somemen wounded , but none killed . A few of the
Confederates went to Joel Palmer's for breakfast , and afterwards rode
by mistake so close upon the Federals that they were made prisoners.
1 Sometimes called “ the Riggs's Run Fight.”

-
Their names were Thos . M. Smith , John Patton , Stephen Stott ,

and John Tompkins, of Boone county ; R. B. Crowder , of Macon
county ; George H. Cunningham and George M. Pulliam from Holt
county .
All of the wounded were at first taken into Mr. Riggs's house , 66 and
they made it pretty bloody ,” says Mr. R. Soon after the Federals
were removed to Sturgeon , where their wounds were dressed and at
tended to by Dr. J. S. Lockridge . The doctor states that Maj. Mc
Kee urged him to hurry up and go out to the battlefield , as there
were wounded Confederates there who needed his assistance worse
than his own (the Major's ) men . The Major seemed actuated by
generous impulses on this occasion and made a favorable impression
on all with whom he came in contact . After attending to the Federal
wounded at Sturgeon , Dr. Lockridge hastened to the scene of the
skirmish and dressed the wounds of the Confederates , in which work
he was assisted by Dr. Elliott , of Watson's forces, who had been cap
tured and paroled .
The Confederate prisoners were first taken to Macon City , and from
thence to Palmyra . Here they were tried by a military commission
of which Col. Groesbeck , 39th Ohio Infantry , was president , on a
charge of railroad and bridge burning , convicted and sentenced to be
shot to death at such time and place as the major general command
ing this department shall direct .” Gen. Halleck at that time was in
command, and he approved the sentence and deputed Gen. Prentiss
to warn them of their approaching fate. The time and place were
never designated . February 20 , 1862 , Gen. Halleck issued an order ,
in which he declared that “ in consideration of the recent victories won
by the Federal forces, and of the rapidly increasing loyalty of the
citizens of Missouri the sentences of John C. Tompkins ,
Wm . J. Forshey , John Patton , Thos . M. Smith , Stephen Stott, Geo .
H. Cunningham , R. B. Crowder and Geo . M. Pulliam , heretofore
condemned to death , are provisionally mitigated to close confinement
in the military prison at Alton . If rebel spies again destroy railroad
lines , and render it necessary for us to make severe examples , the
original sentences against these men will be carried into execu
tion . "
The prisoners were removed from Palmyra to Alton , and each
placed in a cell to himself, in the fourth story of the building, next
1 Fort Donelson had been recently captured , among other victories.

35
the roof. During cold weather they were forced to go to bed to keep
warm . One by one they fell sick and were removed to the hospital.
From here Mr. Smith made his escape. What finally became of the
others is not known .
JIM JACKSON'S FIGHT WITH THE FEDERALS IN 1864 .
In the late fall or early winter of 1864 , “ Captain ” Jim Jackson , a

guerrilla leader or bushwhacker, was operating in this section with a
small band . With seven of his men he was sitting down to supper
in a house about two miles west of Sturgeon, and within three
hundred yards of the county line , when he was attacked by
Lieut. Keebaugh , of Glasgow , with a force of Federals forty
five in number. Though surprised , the guerrillas were not dis
concerted . Accustomed to every sort of fighting , they at once sprang
up and made for the door , drawing their revolvers as they rose and
firing them as they ran . The house , a little log cabin with one room ,
was completely surrounded by the Federals, but Jackson and his men
cut their way out , and escaped with but the loss of one man badly
wounded , and he afterward recovered , and two horses , which were
brought into Sturgeon. The Federal loss was two men mortally
wounded and five slightly injured . The mortally wounded men died
shortly afterward . The wounded men were all left in charge of Dr. J.
S. Lockridge. He dressed their wounds, cared for them and stayed
with them that night, and sent them to Macon City with the two dead
men the next morning .
It was late in the evening when the fight occurred . Jackson and
his men escaped into the “ Blackfoot country ,” and Lieut. Keebaugh
went on to Sturgeon . On their way into town the Federals captured
Bill Woods and brought him in . He was confined in the court- house ,
butmade an almost miraculous escape. He left behind him his boots
and hat , together with almost unmistakable signs that he had fallen
into the big well, and this was the general opinion among friends as
well as foes . Cold as the weather was, Woods preferred to walk over
the prairies bareheaded and barefooted to staying and taking his
chances with the Federals .
Jim Jackson was originally from Texas. As stated by himself, he
joined the Texas Rangers at the outbreak of the war, went to Tennes
see , killed a comrade, and then deserted and joined a Tennessee
cavalry regiment. He served under John Morgan and was on the
Ohio raid , in which he was captured . He escaped from Camp Doug
- --
las, Chicago , in the early spring of 1864, and made his way into Mis
souri, joining Holtzclaw's guerrillas in Chariton county . He was
soon made Holtzclaw's lieutenant , but afterward had a band of his
own . He surrendered to Capt . Cook , at Columbia , in the spring of
1865 , but was killed by the Audrain militia soon :after , while on his
way to Illinois .
HANGING OF AMOS JUDY .
In 1863 Amos Judy, who lived a few miles southeast of Sturgeon ,

was taken from his home one night by a band of bushwhackers, car
ried away and never again heard of. Judy was a Union man who had
rendered himself especially obnoxious to the Confederates , by acting as
a guide and a spy for the Federals when they visited the township . He
had also been a member of Company B , 9th M. S. M. – Capt. Adams'
company ofGuitar's regiment . Whatever became of Judy is not cer
tainly known . It is believed , however, that he was taken over on
Silver's Fork and hung and his body secreted . His family made dili.
gent search and inquiry for his remains, but with no success.
In 1879 , while a party of hunters were on Silver's Fork their atten
tion was attracted by an old and somewhat peculiar “ blaze ' upon
the body of a tree , very high up, as though made by a person on
horse -back . A further investigation disclosed a slight depression in
the soil at the foot of the tree , bearing the outline of an old grave.
Strict inquiries of the oldest resident in the locality failed to discover
a clue as to who had been buried in such a strange , out-of-the-way
spot . Prompted by curiosity , the party procured a spade, and after
digging down about two feet they came upon portions of the charred
remains of a human skeleton , lying amidst a bed of ashes and charred
wood . At the head of the grave was found a small rusty hand axe .
The grave was situated due east and west , and its location is in a
direct line from where Judy lived , being but a very short distance
from his residence. But what is more significant , it is in the identi
cal direction pursued by the party on that memorable night . When
we take into consideration the circumstance that it was rumored at
the time of his disappearance that Judy was first shot and then his
body burned , it seems reasonable to suppose that the secret ofhis
grave has been discovered . At least such appears to be the general
impression .
WHY THEY WENT A - SOLDIERING .
In 1863 Joshua (" Jot ” ) Creson and a minister named Butts

started for the Confederate army. They were captured by the Fed
erals and brought before the provost marshal. That official put on a
severe look and sternly demanded of Parson Butts why he had left
home and kindred and started for the miserable rebel army, wherein
were all manner of men that were vile and wicked and contemp
tible .
“ Well, captain ,” replied Mr. Butts, “ I am a minister of the gos
pel, and having often heard of the terrible depravity of the rebel sol
diers, I was moved with pity at their condition , and thought I would
go down and preach for them , seeing that they needed it so bad .”
This excuse seemed satisfactory to the shoulder -strapped worthy,
and his features relaxed as he bade the would -be missionary sit down .
They contracted , however, as he ordered up Creson for examination .
“ What is your excuse for starting to the rebel army? ” he thundered
out.
“ Me? " returned “ Jot , " with a semblance of great fear and trem
bling ; “ Me? O ! I - I- went along to hear Mr. Butts preach ! ”
With a hearty laugh the Federal officer released both parson and
private and they were discharged , as they should have been .
HOW JOT ” CRESON SHOT REV . BARNES.
The venerable old pioneer preacher , “ Uncle Jimmy ” Barnes, was

a strong Union man . “ Jot ” Creson was a “ rebel ” sympathizer , but
a noted wag as well. On one occasion Creson came suddenly upon
“ Uncle Jimmy ” in a secluded place in the public road . Reining up
his horse " Jot ” fiercely said : " Uncle Jimmy,' you are a Union
man , and you know I don't like you . I am a rebel, and I am going
to shoot you.” Although really believing his life to be in great danger ,
“ Uncle Jimmy” was not badly frightened . In as cool and deliberate
>>
a voice as he could command , he replied to the threat of his “ rebel ”
neighbor : “ Well, · Jot,' I am getting old ,and if you do shoot me
you won't shoot me out of very many years. I am ready ; blaze
away .” Creson drew himself up , thrust his hand into his pocket and
drew out — not a pistol, but a pint bottle filled with good whisky,
and this he thrust into the old man's face. “ Uncle Jimmy " liked
his toddy very well, and he soon took Creson's weapon from him and
.extracted therefrom a comfortable dram and passed it back . The
joke was fully apparent and the two fell to chatting at once ery
friendly . In a few minutes, as they were about to separate , the old
minister said : “ Jot,' I am on my way to preaching and as I'm get
ting old , and its pretty hard work to preach , won't you please shoot
-
me again , so as to help me along ? ” It is needless to say that “ Uncle

Jimmy ” was “ shot ” again , with a good solid " load ,” too .
MISCELLANEOUS .
Mrs. Frances Ann Maher , born in South Carolina, December 28 ,

1796 , and who has lived in Missouri for 56 years , was probably the
oldest woman living in the township July 4 , 1882. Joshua Gibson
was reported as the oldest man .
In June, 1860 , M. M. Jessee picked up from the surface of the
ground a small globe of iron resembling a grapeshot, which , it was
supposed , had been used long ago in a campaign against the Indians.
The piece was about one and a half inches in diameter , and much re
sembled a grapeshot, but could hardly have been , since no artillery
was used against the Indians in this country in early days .
In 1881, while the surveyors were running a route for the Hannibal
and Southwestern Railroad, near John H.Seymour's ,Mr. S., with an
old rifle , shot and killed two turkeys at one shot. The fowls were ,
dressed and served for dinner , to which the surveyors were invited ;
and as they accepted the invitation in force , a big time and a jolly one
was had .
Mr. W.H. Welch has a pair of silver cuff buttons , brought from
Ireland to America before the revolutionary war , by his great -great
grandfather.
Burning Bumble Bees . — In September, 1880 , Thomas Stewart, a
lad about fourteen years of age , found a bumble bee's nest about a
mile south of Sturgeon , and sought to visit the occupants thereof
with fire, if not with sword, to " have some fun .” Accordingly the
match was applied , and the fire burned nicely. It burned so nicely ,
in fact, that it consumed a fine meadow , a quarter of a mile of fence ,
six stacks of hay , and played the mischief generally . “ But ,” the
boy remarked consolingly , and almost with exultation , “ it everlast
ingly fetched them bees ! ”
STORIES BY UNCLE DURRETT BRUCE .
Durrett Bruce was born near Lexington , Kentucky, in March ,

1789. He came to Buone county in the year 1834 , and was one of
the first citizens of this township . He blazed out the road from the
Christian Church in section 19, township 51, range 13 , north to the
county line, on the 7th of April , 1837, as he was on his way to a new
claim in Randolph county .
Although in his 94th year, “ Uncle ” Durrett is hale, hearty and

jolly , and can tell a good story or enjoy one with the best of them .
The compilers are indebted to him for much valuable information in
the shape of reminiscences, incidents , etc. Some of Mr. Bruce's
tales may savor of the improbable to a few hypercritical people, but
the large majority of readers will accept his statements with ready
credence, and only regret that there are not more of them .
' Coon Branch got its name, Uncle Durrett says , from this circum
stance : A settler was going along its banks one day when he chanced
to closely observe a large elm tree , the trunk of which was slowly
but regularly contracting and expanding with alternate movements.
Curious to learn what occasioned the spectacle, the settler cut down
the tree and split it open . Lo, snugly imbedded or imprisoned
within the trunk like the imprisoned fiends in Rinaldo's grove, were
lots of ' coons ! There were big ' coons, little ' coons, old ' coons,
young ' coons, to a vast number , and an unlimited extent. Their
breathing , it seemed , was regular and simultaneous, and the contrac
tion and expansion of their diaphragms, regular as pulse beats,
caused the tree to open and shut , open and shut , open and shut.
With great propriety the stream was thereafter called 'Coon Branch .
Sugar Creek , says Mr. Bruce, took its name from the number of
sugar trees along its margin , and also from the foilowing incident :
The sugar trees were very full of the richest sort of sap. The woods
caught fire one spring , and many of the trees were badly heated and
scorched . A German settler , after the fire had passed , cut down a
hollow sugar tree and found, nicely granulated and stowed away in the
center, about 150 pounds of an excellent quality of maple sugar , which
had been , by the action of the heat , extracted from the sap and as
scientifically boiled down and “ sugared off ” as if the process had
been accomplished by the aid of a patent pan !
Johnson Branch was named for Alfred Johnson , said to have been the
largest man in the world . Lick Fork was so named from the num
ber of deer licks along its margin .
Uncle Durrett says he once caught seven wolves out of a ground
hog hole , just over the line, in Howard county . At that day a
bounty was paid for wolf scalps , and Mr. Bruce says he first thought
he would save these wolves and breed for the market, as it were ; but
they gave him more trouble than their scalps would be worth , as
they effectually cleaned out his chicken coops and pig pens in a short
time. Uncle Durrett says he and his neighbors soon learned to turn
many an honest penny by making two wolf scalps out of one, by a

process, adroitly rendered , of splitting the ears and dividing them .
Dogs were trained to fight wolves, as follows : The wolves were
caught in large traps made of poles, and set with bait and triggers.
When one was caught one of his ham -strings was cut, or a chain
fastened to his leg and held by a man , and then one dog , or two, if
the case demanded it, turned upon him .
The people were accustomed to put “ blobs ” into their calves'
mouths , to prevent their sucking . The implements gave the animals
a singular , not to say a ridiculous , appearance . The first time a man
named Isham saw a calf with a “ blob,” he thought it had tried to swal
low a pocket book and got choked , and he chased it up and down a
creek for hours, trying to secure possession of the supposed treasure .
This creek is in Audrain county , and was named for the man who
chased the calf with a " blob .”
While divine service was being held down at John Rowland's, some
twenty- five years ago , two bulls got to fighting , near the house . A
well was being dug near the church , and it had been left uncovered .
In their mad plunging and struggling the animals approached the
open pit , and one of them backed fairly into it, falling down about
six feet, or until he struck the rock wall, which had been partially
built , where he stuck and looked wildly around . The men of the
congregation , who , notwithstanding the gravity of the occasion , had
been regarding the fight with more interest. than they had listened to
the sermon , rushed out of the meeting- house , and thinking the case
similar to that of an ox in the ditch , procured ropes and chains , and ,
Sunday as it was, at last succeeded in extricating the bovine from his
uncomfortable quarters .
On another occasion there was preaching at Mr. Rowland's, and
there were also a butting ram on the premises and a wicked boy .
The ram had been receiving his education from the boy, and had
learned one thing rightwell. Whenever any one stopped and crooked
a finger at him he would . butt like a battering ram or an iron -clad.
The minister was kneeling down in front of an open door, but with
his back to it , and was " battering the gates of heaven with storms of
prayer .' The ram was outside, watching the minister , and the boy
was inside, watching the ram . Presently the boy leaned over toward
the sheep , and , having succeeded in attracting its attention , crooked
his fingers, just in front of the rear elevation of the preacher. This
was too much . The ram had been considerably worked up over the
minister's clapping his hands and shouting , and now that a taunt had
been thrown out he could endure it no longer . He rushed through
the door like he had been shot out of a gun , and, striking the suppli
ant divine in the small of the back , upset not only him but the gravity
of the congregation as well. It was with some difficulty that the ram
was suppressed , and the wicked boy laughed like a fiend.
“ Uncle Durrett ” now lives in Moberly . He is a locksmith , and
still works at his trade although ninety -three years of age. He is
undoubtedly the oldest person in this section of Missouri. As before
stated , he is hale , hearty , and full of fun . He is able to do a fair
day's work , and reads well without spectacles .
" UNCLE JOHN ALEXANDER ,
One of the pioneers of the county and township , relates another

incident concerning preaching and preachers down at John Rowland's
in an early day . About the year 1825 there was preaching at Row
land's when he lived near old Bethlehem church , Perche township .
After services Rev. Wm . H. Hutchinson killed a garter snake and took
it up stairs with him , and pretended to be asleep , as he knew Robert
Sloan , a brother minister , would soon follow him . Mr. Sloan soon
came up lay down , and began to snore . Hutchinson had previously
tied a string to the snake and as soon as Sloan was asleep he began
to draw the reptile up his leg. Sloan awaked and catching sight of
the “ varmint,” sprang suddenly from the bed , and yelled as if the evil
one were upon him . Hutchinson laughed and then Sloan , seeing the
joke that had been played upon him , and not taking it in good part,
turned on Hutchinson in an angry mood , and the two men , preachers
though they were , were soon engaged in a real rough and tumble
fight. They were separated with some difficulty , but soon made
friends, and laughed it all over .
A BEAR CHASE .
Uncle John Alexander states that in the fall of 1819, as Joshua

Alexander , John Rowland, and others were helping put on the roof of
a cabin down in Perche township , near the Howard line, they heard
a small dog coming toward them barking violently . Looking up they
saw a large bear advancing rapidly . Bruin passed them by in peace ,
but the men gave chase with guns , dogs, etc., as soon as they could .
They treed the animal pretty soon and several shots were fired at it
without effect. Finally Joshua Alexander, with a well directed shot ,
-
-
brought down the bear . “ No sooner had the huge animal been dis
patched when along came Col. Ben Rives , Joe Davis, and others who
claimed that they had started it. Consequently the animal was skinned
and equally divided among both parties .
RAILROAD FIRES..
Some years ago, before spark -arresters on locomotives were in

vented , the people living along the line of the North Missouri railroad
in this township suffered greatly at certain seasons of the year from
prairie fires and grass fires . The land along the road is prairie and open
and when the grass was dry it was easily ignited by the large sparks that
fell from the engines. In dry seasons the people were afraid to leave
home, and stood as minute men ready to sally out to fight fire as soon
as smoke was discovered .
THE SHROYER MURDER CASE .
A most horrible and at the same time a most interesting case of

murder occurred in this township in the fall of 1876. The particulars ,
here given are taken from the Sturgeon Leader of August 5 , 1882.
The editor of the Leader , Mr. T. S. Carter, is better informed con
cerning the facts in the case than any other person , and was promi
nent in causing the arrest of the alleged murderer :
Late Saturday evening, October 14th , 1876 , a wagon drove up to
Mrs. Martha A. Seymour's, about three miles southwest of Sturgeon .
In the wagon was a man and a woman ,and three children - two boys
and a girl. The man wanted to buy some feed for his horses. While
he was at the barn getting some corn from Mr. Gulick , Mrs. Sey
mour's son -in -law , the woman in the wagon told Mrs. Seymour that
her husband was going to kill her that night, that he had threatened
to do so , and if she would go down in the morning to where they
would camp that night she would find her dead body.
Nothing fur
ther was thought of this till the 7th day of February , 1877, when
some choppers in the woods suddenly came upon the mutilated re
mains of a human being . The bones and clothing were gathered up
and an inquest held . An examination showed that the skull had been
broken as if by a heavy blow ; one arm was also broken . Everybody
was satisfied that a murder had been cominitted but how to find out
the perpetrator of the dark deed was the question . Mrs. Seymour
recollected the circumstances of the movers who passed her house the
previous October. Marion White , residing three miles west of where
the body was found , recollected that a man and three children came
to his house early on the morning of October 15th , 1876 , but no
woman was with them . The man , children , wagon and team were ex
actly as described by Mrs. Seymour and others who had seen them
the day before . This was all telegraphed to the St. Louis papers and
in a short time found its way to Marshall, Kansas. In a few days a
letter came from Marshall stating that Mike Shroyer left there that
fall for Miami County , Indiana, with his wife and three children to
collect somemoney coming to her from her first husband's estate , she
having previously been married , but he returned without his wife and
could tell no reasonable or even plausible story about what became of
her and that people suspicioned him as baving killed her .
Letters were written to Indiana and answers received stating that
Shroyer and his wife and three children left there about the last of
September with exactly the same outfit – wagon and team — as seen
at Mrs. Seymour's the evening before the murder and by Mr. White
the morning after it . Samples of clothing were sent from Indiana
which corresponded exactly with that found upon the dead woman .
The little girl was sick when at Mr. White's and it was noticed that
she had a crippled hand . The child was sick when Shroyer arrived
home in Kansas, and the editor of the Leader , who made a trip to
Kansas on the hunt of Shroyer , saw the child of Michael Shroyer , a
girl, with a crippled hand exactly as described by Mrs. White and
others . Many other interesting circumstances went to show that
Michael Shroyer had murdered his wife .
Being fully satisfied of his guilt , he was indicted at the April term ,
1877, of the Boone circuit court , and here the matter rested until in
July , 1882, when he was captured in Jasper county , Mo., and brought
back to this county and lodged in our county jail. The Leader says
that a man named John Pittman once resided in Marshall county ,
Kansas , and was a near neighbor to the Shroyers and became well ac
quainted with Mike. Subsequently he moved to Jasper county , Mo.,
and settled near Joplin . He was living there when he read in the pa
pers accounts of the murder of Mrs. Shroyer by her husband , nearly
six years ago, but the matter had almost entirely left his mind until
about July 20 , 1882, when he suddenly came upon Mike Shroyer ,
who was at work as a grader on the Webb City Extension of the Kan
sas City , Ft . Scott & Gulf Railroad . Pittman then wrote to an old
friend of his in Marshall county , Kansas, inquiring about Shroyer.
But in the meantime he told some parties about the report that
--
- - -
Mike Shroyer had murdered his wife somewhere in Missouri but he

did not remember where . It so happened that John Esry , Jr., and
John Jester , former residents of Sturgeon , were present and heard
Pittman's story . They remembered well all the circumstances con
nected with the finding of the body of the murdered woman , and at
once the sheriff of the county ( Roberts ) was notified and Shroyer
was arrested and lodged in jail. He afterwards brought the prisoner
to Columbia and committed him to the safe keeping of Mr. Stone,
the sheriff of Boone County , who will retain him for trial .
SHOOTING OF ROWLAND .
A difficulty occurred in Bourbon township , at Union church , in

1879, between two prominent members named Wade and Rowland .
They were brothers -in -law , and it seems had quarrelled over the set
tlement of an estate in which they were both interested . The affair
got into the church , necessitating a church trial for adjustment. It
was while the members were meeting for that purpose that Wade
shot Rowland . The courts have not yet finally passed upon the case,
and it is not for the historian to anticipate the action of the councils
of justice .
OLD PETERSBURG .
On the east half of the southwest quarter of section 31, town

ship 51 , range 12 , where is now a corn field , once stood a little
village, called Petersburg . It was laid out in the year 1836 , or
perhaps in 1837 , and was a noted little village , on Silver's Fork of
Perche, at one time with a population of say fifty souls. There were
two stores in the place , a mill, a tanyard , blacksmith shop , etc. Gen.
Geo . Dorris, now of St. Louis, put up the first store in Petersburg .
Gen. D.'s wife , who was murdered in the fall of 1881, by her grandson,
Russell Brown, is well remembered by the old citizens. The wife of
Gen. John A. Logan , now U. S. senator from Illinois, was born in
Petersburg . Her maiden name was Mary Cunningham . Many of
her relatives now reside in the vicinity .
The mill at Petersburg belonged to H. Brink , who was really the
founder of the little town .
Old Petersburg , like other frontier towns in an early day , was a

great place for frolicking, dancing, fun and fighting. Many an old
stager with gray beard and bald head will feel young again as he
recalls the delightful scenes through which he passed when in his
youth he was wont to visit and recreate in Petersburg . But the
town , like the days of his youth , has passed away forever, and its
memories at last are bitter as well as sweet.
Among the many incidents related of Old Petersburg is this one :
Long ago there was an individual in the vicinity who was known as
“ Tasty ” Jones. He was probably ironically so called , from his
taste in the selection of his wearing apparel. On one occasion
“ Tasty ” had come to town and bought a pound of gunpowder ,
which he had put in the pockets of his pantaloons, a bran -new tow
linen pair. He went into a blacksmith shop to swap news with the
village smithy . While standing carelessly about, a livid spark from
the anvil flew against his linen unmentionables, and set them on fire .
The fire communicated with the powder , and then there came a burst
of thunder sound — poor Jones ! Oh , where was he? It is solemnly
averred that the explosion blew “ Tasty ” fairly through the roof,
which was a low one, and badly demoralized the roof itself ; that it
knocked the blacksmith galley-west and crooked , and frightened the
townspeople into thinking an earthquake was upon them . Jones was
laid up for some days , but finally recovered . His pants were a total
wreck , and perished in the great catastrophe.
M'CAULEY'S MILL .
This mill stands on Perche creek , on the northeast quarter of sec

tion 7 , township 51, range 13. It was built in the year 1867, by
John Peacher, Curtis Gentry , and J. R. and H. W. Jackson . Its
first cost was about $ 1,200 , but its present value is about $ 1,500 , as
estimated by Mr. McCauley . The mill is a saw and grist mill com
bined, and grinds both wheat and corn . It uses the patent process
for purifying middlings. During the fall and winter seasons it runs
regularly . In the spring , and subsequently, it is usually operated
but one or two days in the week .
SCHOOL HOUSES IN BOURBON .
Barrett School House . — Stands on the southeast quarter of section

29 , township 51, range 13. The site , one acre , was donated hy J.
H. Alexander , including the timber, although he was childless. He
was a trustee for one year after the house was built. The house was
built in the summer of 1877 , at a cost of $ 300 . The average term of
school in this district for the past year or two has been low on ac
count of indebtedness. Average attendance, twenty -five. Present
trustees, Geo . W.Gulick , Wm . B. Prowell , and John H.Graves.
-
Dinwiddie School House . - Northeast quarter of section 11 , towo

ship 51, range 12. The site comprises two acres . The house was
built about 1872, at a cost of $ 300 . Average term of school, six
months ; average attendance, twenty ; average wages per month paid

teachers , $ 32.50 . Present teacher, Miss Ella Patterson . Present
trustees , L . W. White , president ; Zadok Kelly , secretary and clerk ;
Wm . Dinwiddie, treasurer .
Turner School House.- Northwest quarter of section 12 , town
ship 51, range 13. The site , one acre, was donated by J. Turner.
The house was built in 1876 ,and cost $ 340 . Average term of school,
six months ; attendance , fifteen ; teacher's wages, $ 35 and $40. Last
teacher , Miss Rose Ann Seymour.
Woods School House. — Near the centre of section 26 , township
51, range 13. The house was built about 1857 , and cost $ 400 . Av
erage school term , seven months ; teacher's wages, $ 35.00 .
White School House . - Southeast quarter of section 7 , township 51,
range 13. The site , an acre ,was donated equally by J. T. and Thomas
White . The house was built in the summer of 1876 , and cost $410 .
Four or five months of public school are held during the year besides
a private school term of two or three months. The average wages
paid teachers is $ 37.50 . Miss Addie White was the last teacher .
Present directors , J. T. White , James M. Chaney , J. R. Jackson .
Robinson School House - Is on the southeast quarter of section
25 , township 51, range 14 . The house was built near the year 1872 ;
cost , $ 325 . The average attendance is about thirty -five. The salary
is from $ 30 to $ 40 . Directors , Geo . Hombs, John Robinson , Han
sen Smith . Robinson school house is noted for its spelling matches
and debating schools .
The Tucker School House. - This school house is located on the
northwest quarter of the southwest quarter of section 20 , township
51, range 12. It was built about the year 1869. The site contains
about an acre of ground. The building cost from $400 to $ 450. B.
F. Tucker, Thos. Palmer , and Y. E. Riggs are the present directors .
Mr. Tucker superintended the building of the house . The district
has about eight months school in the year , with an average daily at
tendance of twenty -eight .
COUNTRY CHURCHES MT. HOREB, BAPTIST (EXTINCT) .
This church was situated on the southwest quarter of section 8,

township 51, range 12 . The date of its organization is March 3 ,
1853. The original members were Saml. M. and Margaret Riggs, Jno .
and Rebecca Hawkins, Jesse and Mary Ann Copher, Parmelia Winn ,
Gerald , Serena, and Elizabeth Angell, Thos. L. and John D., Eze
kiel V., and Margaret Hawkins, Peter G. and Margaret Booth , John
S. Parmer , Francis M. Brink , James , Paulina , and Elizabeth Haw
kins , Elizabeth Gibson , Joseph H. and Mary E. Keithley , Priscilla
Ann Taylor, Mary Ann Bentley , William and Sally Summers , Jame
A. and Lou Ann Quisenberry , and Jonathan Bogarth . Rev. Wms
Thompson was really the founder of the church .
The building, a frame, was erected in the summer of 1855. Its
cost exceeded $ 1,200 . Of this sum $ 1,100 was subscribed at the start ,
and tbe remainder added afterwards. When the frame of this
church was up it was blown down by a severe storm . It was again
put up and all completed but the plastering, when it was struck by
lightning and shivered so badly that it was torn down and built over
the third time. During the war soldiers encamped in it and injured it
very considerably. At present it is not used , being an old wreck and
fast crumbling into complete decay.
During its existence the pastors of this church were : Rev. Dr.
Wm . Thompson , W. R. Wigginton , P. T. Gentry , W. K.Woods, B.
S. Woods, W.R. Wigginton (again ), Green Cary , Wigginton (again ,
1866 ), Green Cary ( again , from 1868 to 1871 , the last regular
preacher ).
The founder of Mt. Horeb , Dr. Wm . Thompson , was one of the
ablest divines ever in Missouri. He was a native of Scotland , and a
graduate of Edinburg University . He was a thorough scholar and

especially an accomplished linguist. He afterward became president
of Wm . Jewell College, Liberty , and died there not many years ago.
A monument has been erected to his memory .
When Dr. Thompson first came into Bourbon township , many years
ago, he was regarded as a “ tramp. ” He called at the residence of
Mr. Hawkins, a prominent church member, and , as he was not at
home, started away. Mr. H's son , Andrew J. Hawkins, then a boy,
followed Dr. Thompson and inquired his business with his father .
Being informed that it was regarding church matters , the doctor was
invited back to the house to remain over night. Meeting was being
held in the neighborhood . Dr. Thompson stated that he sometimes
preached and he was invited to attend . While in church he was
called on to pray. The worshippers had viewed him with some
suspicion and distrust, but when he began to pray he “ astonished
the natives .” After the meeting he was invited to preach and became
the founder and first pastor of Mt. Horeb . Under his ministrations
the church prospered greatly . It is said that the learned divine was
“ cranky ” at times . On these occasions he would never speak a
word — nothing could induce him to . Furthermore it is stated that
he could repeat from memory and by rote every word of the New
Testament.
FAR WEST CHRISTIAN .
This church stands on the northeast corner of section 22 , township

51, range 12. The congregation was organized sometime in the year
1858. Three of the original members were Jesse Roberts, Alfred
Wainscott, and Wm . Denham .
The first church building, a log structure , was built either in the
fall of 1852 or the spring of 1853. It was proposed by James Hen
dricks to raise a subscription for the building of a church before any
organization of any denomination was formed . The people believed
that if they would build a house in which to hold meetings that they
could obtain the help of a minister and have regular services, and
thus improve the moral tone of the community . Mr. Hendricks
headed the subscription list and the money was raised and the building
completed several years before the organization of the Christian
church .
The present church building, a frame, was completed in the fall of
1880. Its cost was about $ 700 ; a great deal of the work of construc
tion was done gratis by the community . The land on which the
building stands was deeded to the use of " the Methodist, Christian , and
Baptist churches ," although the Christian church was the only denomi
nation holding regular meetings. Rev. Stephen J. Bush was the first
preacher in the new church . The present membership is about 45 .
PERCHE CHURCH .
This church is owned and controlled by the Baptists and Christians

jointly . It is situated in the center of section 19 , township 51 , range
13. The Christian organization was formed June 14 , 1835. The
original members were Wm . White and wife, Silas Riggs and wife,
James Williams and wife, Alfred Johnson and wife , Thomas McBride
and wife , John White and wife, Joel Bradley and wife , Gabriel
Bradley and wife, Durrett Bruce and wife, Nancy D. Sanford , Mar
garet Clayton , Elizabeth Roberts , Mahala Ann Roberts, Caleb Woods,
Nancy Swezer, Willis Clayton , Nicholas Roberts, Sarah White,
Joel White and Emily Bradley. The first house of worship was a log
with a big fire place and chimney in each end . The first elders were
Durrett Bruce , Wm . White and John White . Among the pastors were
William and John White , John McCune, Silas Naylor , and Minter
Bailey . The present church building is a fine frame structure ,
34x50 feet in size, and was built in the year 1880 at a cost of $ 1,200 .
It has not been dedicated . The old church was built about the year
1835 or 1836 .
The Baptist organization was constituted in 1881 , and has but re
cently gone into partnership with the Christians. The first organiza
tion was composed of 22 members , as follows : Sam'l Jackson , J. B.
Lyon , Wm . Prowell, G.W.Gulick , and Brown, and their wives ;
James W. Robinson , wife and daughter ; Hewson Smith , wife and
daughter ; Wesley Holmes, Mary E. Holmes , John Robinson, Wood
son Tisdel, Elizabeth Tisdel, and J. A. Carr . There have been four
additions since the organization . Rev. Green Carey is the pastor.
UNION CHURCH .
This is the only Cumberland Presbyterian Church in the county ,

and is located in the northern part of section 35 , township 51, range
13. As nearly as can be ascertained , it was organized in about 1832.
The original members were Robert Rowland and wife ; Robert School
ing and wife ; Edward Graves and wife ; James, Nancy and Susannah
Schooling ; and Barnabas S. Woods and wife . The first building
erected was a log structure, which answered for a meeting-house
for several years. They next built a frame, which , however , was
burned in the summer of 1879. The fire was a mysterious affair,
and is supposed by some to have been the work of incendiaries.
A tragedy connected with this church is elsewhere given in this
chapter .
The ministers that have served this church since 1873 , to this writ
ing, are R. C. Mansfield , T. G. Pool, Johnson , and G.W. Dysart .
The present building was erected in 1881, at a cost of about $ 1,100 .
The number ofmembers at this writing is about 100 .
CEMETERIES .
Palmer Graveyard . – This is probably the oldest burying ground

in the township . It was laid out by James Palmer about the year
1837 , and contains about an acre of land . The first interment was
that of John Palmer . Others of the Palmer family are here buried .
There are probably twenty graves in the cemetery . Its location is in

the southeast quarter of section 20 , township 51, range 12.
The Robinson Graveyard . - This cemetery , a private one, is in
section 8 , township 51, range 13 , on the farm now owned by J. B.
Robinson . It was laid out about the year 1849, by Tandy Robinson ,
father of the present owner of the land . It contains about twenty
graves .
THE CITY OF STURGEON .

EARLY HISTORY.
Many years ago a town called Buena Vista stood on the range line
between ranges 12 and 13 and between section 6 , township 51, of the
former , and section 1 of the latter, the site being about half way of
the section line from north to south . The place was also called Bour
bonton . At one time it contained about 150 inhabitants , two stores ,
two blacksmith shops, a saloon , etc. The place was renowned chiefly
for horse -racing, whisky-drinking, and fighting. It is not important
that a full history of Buena Vista be given here, since the place that
knew it once knows it now no more forever . It is remembered , how
ever , that on one occasion in a row over a horse-race , a Mr. Hudson
shot four men and cut the throat of another . None of the men were
killed , but all were placed hors du combat. This was known as the
Hudson- Perkins-Angell fight.
Lemuel Dill was a noted house -mover, and when old Buena Vista
was removed to where Sturgeon now is, he moved the houses , using
a huge wagon with axles and coupling-pole long enough to hold a good
sized house .
LOCATION AND SURVEY OF THE TOWN .
The town of Sturgeon was laid out in July and August , 1856 , by
the Sturgeon Town Company whose trustees were J. D. Patton ,
James E. Hicks, and Archie Wayne . The site was purchased from
John Rochford , N. B. Burks, and J. B. Smith . Only a short distance
away, on the northwest quarter of section 5 , township 51, range
12 , the town of Prairie City was laid out but swallowed up by the
town of Sturgeon , because the railroad company refused to locate a
depot therein . John Rochford owned the principal portion of the
land on which Sturgeon was laid out. He was an engineer and a
contractor on the North Missouri Railroad , and built about twenty
miles of that important thoroughfare.
36
The town was named for Hon . Isaac H. Sturgeon , then the super
intendent of the North Missouri Railroad , and was contemplated to be
a station on the road from the start. The little bit of “ taffy ” ten
dered the railroad magnate was probably not without its effect in
causing the location of a depot at the town bearing his name, but it.
took something more substantial to effect the location
finally and
absolutely . Six worthy citizens of the vicinity , including Messrs.
Rochford , Burks, and Smith , obligated themselves to pay to the rail
road company $6,000, contingent upon the location of the railroad
station as aforesaid . The following is a copy of the obligation :
We hereby obligate ourselves to pay to the North Missouri Railroad Company three
thousand dollars on the 1st day of December next, and the further sum of three thousand
dollars on the 1st day of August, 1857, provided said railroad company locate a depot on
said railroad between station No. 5772 and station No. 5790, being on the east end of section ?
129 and the west end of section 128, west of Salington creek ; and further provided that .
no depot be located within five miles of this point. Given under our hands and seals this
the 3d of July, 1856 .
John ROCHFORD. (SEAL ] N. B. Burks. (SEAL ]
John B. SMITH. [SEAL ] John M. Booth. (SEAL ]
PETER G. Booth . (SEAL ) S. M. RIGGS. (SEAL. ]
As will be seen the railroad company agreed not to locate another

depot “ within five miles of this point ,'' i. e. the town of Sturgeon ,
and this agreement gave Prairie City its quietus.
When first laid out the founders of Sturgeon had in view a great
future for their town. Not only was it intended to be a great railroad
town and shipping point, but it was intended , and so advertised , to be
the county seat of the new county of “ Rollins, " then in contempla
tion of formation . As - Rollins county ” was never formed , Stur
geon never became a county capital . The projectors were very
profuse of promises at the first to give tracts of land for churches ,
academies , etc., but it is said that not all of these promises were ful
filled .
THE 6. FIRSTS .' '
It is difficult to decide whose was the first house in the town ..

Claib . Thompson says that he put the first building in the place, an
old log cabin , which he removed from Buena Vista . This structure is
now weatherboarded and is still standing in the southeast part of
towi, south of the railroad . John F. Fisher framed one house in the
old town and brought the parts to Sturgeon and put them together,
and it is claimed for this building that it was the first in the place .
1
1 Referring to railroad sections.

1
-
Again it is alleged that the first building erected entirely in the town
was built by E. S. Hawkins for Smith & Burks and used by them as a
store . This building, it is said , was completed before the one framed
by John F. Fisher , but this point is one hard to decide . Mr. Haw
kins lived near Sturgeon before the town was laid out. This building
The
went up in the fall of 1856, the year the town was laid out.
first brick house in town was commenced by J. S. Lockridge . He
was afterward joined by Maj. John F. Rucker, and they completed it.
It is claimed that this was also the first brick house in the township .
The first male child born in the town was David A. Mayer , son of
Daniel and Ann Eliza Mayer , who was born November 11 , 1857. The
first female child was Mary A. Murphy, born June 16 , 1857. She
was a daughter of Michael and Mary Murphy, and is now Mrs. J. A.
Dyer , of Centralia .
The first death was that of Miss Mary Hukle , who departed this
life in April, 1857, aged 18. Her disease was erysipelas. Her burial
place has not been ascertained , but it is believed to have been in some
one of the country grave yards. J. B. Smith died in June, 1857 .
The first family in the town was either that of M. B. Tompkins or
ofMichael Murphy . It is claimed that Tompkins was the first inside
of the corporate limits. He came in February , 1857, and located on
lot 10 , block 29. Mr. Tompkins kept the first hotel, on lot 16, block
26 .
The first store was a small supply store for the railroad men while
the road was being built . In it were kept a few necessaries of life ,
such aswhisky, tobacco , etc. The first store worthy of the namewas
that of Smith & Burks before mentioned . It stood on lot 34 , block
28. The first lot sales are said to have come off in November , 1856 ,
and the store was built prior to that time. Smith & Burks kept a
good stock of general merchandise . Daniel Mayer moved to Stur
geon from Buena Vista in the spring of 1857, and is now in business
in the former place , the oldest merchant in town.
As to the other pioneer business men , mechanics, etc., it may be
stated that Dr. J. S. Lockridge was the first physician ; Henry ,
the first lawyer ; Rev. James Barnes ( Baptist ) , the firstminister who
held religious services ; Thos . L. Hawkins , the first shoemaker ; T.
H. Patterson , the first tailor, and the first barber ; John M. Burks,
Richard Harwood , Wm . Marshall, and Mr. Smith the first black
smiths ; and either James Bishop or Purdy the first photographer .
Bishop went off into the Union army during the civil war and was an
army photographer . While at Ft. Pickering, Memphis, Tenn ., he was

shot and killed by a negro soldier, whom he had offended . The first
section boss was a Mr. McCormick .
The first mayor was Housen Canada ; the first postmaster Adam
Gosline ; ' the first newspaper was established in 1858 by Col. Wm .
A. Strawn and called the News.
The first church building was the M. E. South , with the Masonic
Hall above, built in 1859. Previous to the building of this church
religious meetings had been held in the summer time in arbors erected
by the people . Political meetings were wont to be held in Daniel
Mayer's store , on lot 1 , block 36 .
The first school-house was built in 1857 .
Daniel Mayer is the oldest merchant now in town , having been here
25 years . E. S. Hawkins and J. F. Fisher , both carpenters, are the
only men now in the place who were here when the town was origin
ally laid out, in 1856 .
ITEMS .
When the town of Sturgeon was first started its moral tone was not
the most elevated . Rows were very frequent, and melees , during
which knives and pistols were flourished , and sometimes used , were
quite frequent. In time this state of affairs was removed , and the
community becamemore tractable and peaceable .
In the spring of 1857 a cyclone or tornado passed over the young
town , and blew down several houses . Among them was a new build
ing , 50 by 60 feet in size, and three stories high , which was totally
demolisbed . This building was intended for a hotel, and was being
erected for Claiborne Thompson , by E. S. Hawkins, Esq . It stood
on lot 7 , block 28 .
The town grew.with reasonable rapidity after the railroad was com
pleted , and in a year after it was started had a population of from 200
to 300 inhabitants . Considerable business was transacted . Sturgeon
was the leading shipping point for a large area of country tributary
to St. Louis. The railroad was a new thing in these parts , and Stur
geon and Centralia were the only stations thereon in this county .
The former was the recognized leading point, and received and dis
charged considerable quantities of freight, not only from Boone,
but from Randolph , Monroe and Audrain counties, as it does to
this day .
1 The post-office was established in 1857.

-
EARLY DAYS IN STURGEON .
A year or two since , one of the oldest citizens of Sturgeon , a gen

tleman who was one of the first inhabitants of the place , with a
recollection of early scenes and events and capacity to write of them ,
published , in the Sturgeon Leader , some reminiscences of early days ,
which are herewith appended :
Perhaps the common experience of our day would forbid the recurrence of the like in
such common -place things. But then the country was new , towns few and far between ; the
railway was coming right through the middle of the town ! No mistake! Splendid depots,
machine-shops, round -houses, etc., would be erected , and the place taken under the especial
patronage of this new institution . Who wouldn't bite ?
But as so much was to be done for Sturgeon , of course shemust do something in return ,
“ besides that little subscription " for the railway. Well, ten acres of the most sightly and
valuable ground in the town would be sufficient to erect these promised improvements on ,
“ could she just donate that little ” the thing would be " fixed ” - Certainly , take the land ;
five thousand dollars is nothing in return for such promised blessings .
And now everybody stands with arms akimbo, with fiery eyelids, diluted nostrils and
heaving bosoms, in breathless expectation of the coming events. Everybody talked Stur
geon , talked depot, talkedmachine shops and round-house ; the news spread like thin batter ,
and it stuck ; the place was overrun with people, and still others came in haste, ferring to
be late. Tomkin's house couldn't accommodate the half. Harrison Hulett set up the City
Hotel - " no go," more room . The Planters', on the south side, two-story, staked and ridered ,
was run up by a joint stock company . The railway had now come, sure enough ; had
planted a turn -table on the west side. What next? All are on tip -toe. The “ Railroad
Exchange " - what of that? Oh, that was an institution that lent a pious hand in the ad
ministration of spirituous consolation. But what about the machine shops, etc. ? Well,
thereby hangs a tale - I am a little tender on that subject.
The depot - yes, that came one night, when all slept. There it stands, a thing of beauty,
a joy for ever so long a time. See its stately columns, arches, towers and minarets, its roof
slanting both ways at once. Step inside, ye gods ! This elegant retreat on the left is the
ladies' private parlor; on the right, the grand saloon ; in the west wing under the main
tower, on the avenue lane with hewn ties, is the company's office: comfortable, of course it
is. Why, one is rather pleased than otherwise. If night trains are a little late you can
make yourself at home; and then , to think , all this luxury in exchange for that little strip
bare and bleak over the way. Bad luck to it ! “ Why, I thought that was for machine
shops ! ” So it was — but — well, they are not built yet. But isn't there a beautiful mon
ument over there to the memory of blasted hopes ? No. That you will find in the new
cemetery grounds, west, but the road thither is difficult. But why do they vacate the burial
grounds in the west corner? Oh, that was to compensate for the strip on the south side, and
then nobody thought of dying of a sudden ; the doctors were mostly young men ; Lockridge
and Dow were on their first legs, and if they couldn't cure were considerate enough to pro
long life at least to the extent of the purse !
How about the business centers of the town in those days ? Some changes have been
made. Yes, formerly the bulk of the trade was done on the street fronting the railroad ;
the Leader block was the center of exchange - contained the post-ofice, had stores, drug
houses, and other institutions where spirituous consolation and medical purposes were ad
ministered with happy results. In it also flourished the political schools, from which were
graduated our present town politicians; but its greatness has departed, leaving this once
busy mart to be inhabited by bats, an unhappy editor, a few indignant lawyers and a broom
factory .
STURGEON IN WAR TIMES .
When the civil war broke out the people of Sturgeon , for the most
part , sympathized with the Southern or Confederate side. The town
was early occupied by the Federals , and held by them as a military
post during the greater part of the war. It was regarded by them as
a place of considerable importance , as indeed it was . By reason of
its military occupation the citizens were greatly inconvenienced , to use
a mild term .
The first company of Federal soldiers in town was a battalion of
the Third Iowa Infantry , Col. Williams commanding . These soldiers
came in July , 1861, but did not stay long , remaining only a few hours .
The second body of troops that came was the Fourteenth Illinois In
fantry , Col. John M. Palmer. This regiment was stationed here for
a short time, and was succeeded by a company of Merrill's Horse ,
Second Missouri Cavalry . Then came a company of militia from
Boonville, followed by another company of Krekel’s militia from St.
Charles. In December , 1861, came Col. Birge's Western Sharpshoot
ers , who , in connection with Col. Glover's Third Missouri Cavalry ,
fought Col. Dorsey's Confederates at Mt. Zion church , December 28 .
Then followed a battalion of Iowa volunteers, the number of the regi
ment not being remembered .
From Sturgeon , Gen. Prentiss , at the head of a battalion of Birge's
Sharpshooters , and of Col. J. M.Glover's Third Missouri Cavalry , set
out to attack Dorsey's troops at Mt. Zion , as before narrated . While
Birge's men occupied the place some of them , who were printers, took
charge of the News office and issued a number of the paper gotten up
by and to please themselves . This paper gave an alleged truthful ac
count of the Mt. Zion fight , of a skirmish over on Young's creek , in
Monroe county , etc., and indulged in much boasting of the prowess
of the boys in blue and a corresponding depreciation of the valor of
the Confederates .
From Sturgeon also set out, in September, 1864 , the ill-fated expe
dition to Rocheport, in charge of Capt. J. W.McFadden , Company
F , Third Missouri State Militia , which was set upon by George Todd
and John Thrailkill with their guerillas , in Gosline's Lane, in Perche
township. An account of this affair is to be found elsewhere in these
pages .
Here also was the city of refuge for the few men of Major John
1 Afterward Major-General of U. S. Volunteers, and Governor of Illinois in 1870-72.

son's command, who escaped from the battle , or massacre , of Cen

tralia . Draper's and Schaeffer's commands were here and in the
vicinity at the time, Draper coming down from Macon the next day .
It would be a hard task , and not a profitable one, to detail all of the
military movements in and about Sturgeon during the war . No great
glory was won by either side , however , and the least said , perhaps ,
the better .
Sturgeon sent her quota of men into the Confederate army, and
some of them were as gallant soldiers as the most knightly in either
army, and as brave as the best .
FIRES IN STURGEON .
Since the founding of the place it has been remarkably free from
fires . Several small buildings have been burned , but no conflagration
of serious character occurred until the summer of 1882. The follow
ing is said to be a list of all the fires in the place :
In June, 1861, the residence of Hugh Melvin , situated near the
present residence of James Conners , was burned to the ground .
In the spring of 1862 the residence of Johu F. Moore , located be
tween the present residence of W. T. Old and T. D. Moss , was
burned by the soldiers .
In November, 1863, the block of buildings, four in number , about
where the broom factory stands, was burned . Loss considerable .
Next was the residence of Dr. Pollard , dentist , located near where
Maria Anderson lives ; burned by the soldiers about 1864 .
Some time in 1864 a house on the corner where Robinson's store
now stands, was burned . It belonged to Dr. Dinwiddie's estate and
was occupied by A. H. Nise.
In 1865 the town calaboose was burned by a lot of soldiers who had
been put in it the day before for some mutinous conduct .
About 1875 the colored Methodist Church , near Russ Schooling's,
was destroyed by fire .
July 19 , 1882 , the most serious conflagration occurred in Sturgeon .
At 9 o'clock P. M. of that day, the fire broke out in Wood's saloon
building and was bursting through the roof when discovered . The
following were the principal losers and their losses : C. B. Branham's
butcher shop ; loss , $ 300 . B. C. Barnes , saloon ; loss , $ 150 ; build
ing belonging to James Palmer , $500 . Daniel & Canada's billiard
hall and saloon , loss on fixtures, $ 200 ; on building , $ 1,250. John
Butler, two unoccupied buildings , $ 1,200 . Woods's saloon , loss $ 900 .
Montrief & Prather lost three large livery stable buildings, sheds ,
Fairbanks scales, etc., amounting in all to a loss of $ 2,500 . The
two-story frame building occupied by the Sturgeon Savings Bank was
saved by covering the roof with carpet and sprinkling heavily with
salt .
Several incipient fires have occurred , but no great damage was done.
It is also a remarkable fact that there has never been a dollar of in
surance on any of the property burned in this place .
STURGEONITES IN NIGGER WOOL SWAMP .”
In November , 1880 , a party of Sturgeonites ,Major John F. Rucker ,

J. M. Proctor, T. S. Carter, W. T. Old , F. W. Middleton, and J. A.
Turner , went down into that portion of the territory of the State of
Arkansas known by the euphonious title of the Nigger Wool Swamp.
Some of the party had visited the locality during the civil war , and
knew that it abounded in game and fish . The swamp is almost inac
cessible and impenetrable . After going into camp Rucker, Middleton
and Old started out for a hunt. They found some deer tracks a few
miles from camp . Mr. Old took one direction , and Major Rucker and
Middleton another . Mr. Old soon discovered that he was lost, but,
happening to hear in the distance the rumble of a train of cars a mile

or so away , he succeeded in making his way to the railroad track , and
then to the camp in safety .
Rucker and Middleton were not so fortunate . After rambling about
for a timethey too became bewildered and lost . They were not much
alarmed or disconcerted , however , as they had good guns, plenty of
ammunition , and a first- rate compass. The latter article proved of
but little use ,as they were unable to travel but a short distance in any
one direction , owing to the numerous sloughs and lakes. The weather
was quite cold and there was snow on the ground . The situation of
the hunters was not at all comfortable. Night was fast approaching,
and they had but feeble hopes of extricating themselves before the next
day. They had but three matches and two of these were burned in
order to locate their direction of travel . The other match was saved
to kindle a fire in case they were compelled to camp out.
At length, worn out and weary, without food and drenched to the
waist by wading through mud and water , they decided to camp for the
night, and hope for the best in the morning . Extraordinary prepara
1 On Black River, in Clay County .

tions were made to insure the safe ignition of the solitary match on
which they were dependent for warmth and comfort, and their efforts
were successful. The greatest precautions were taken to have the
wood take fire, and these were also crowned with success . A bright ,
hot fire was soon burning, by which the belated hunters were trying
to make themselves somewhat comfortable . Mr. Middleton succeeded
in removing his boots, but Maj. Rucker's feet were so badly swollen
that his hoots could not be taken off . The night was passed in a
manner that may be imagined , but that is difficult to be described .
All the time their comrades in camp were shouting , firing guns , build
ing bright fires , and trying many other devices to attract their attention
and guide them to safety , but their signals were unheard and unob
served .
Sometime in the forenoon of the next day Rucker and Middleton ,
tired out , hungry, and in a most wretched plight every way , made
their appearance in camp. Their companions, though almost over
joyed at their safety , were inclined to rally and “ chaff ” them over
their mishap and ill luck , butMaj. Rucker levelled his gun and warned
the party that the matter was too serious to be joked about, and that
he was in no mood to be trifled with . It is said that neither of the
parties has since shown any very fervent desire to chase the wild deer
or track him to his lair within the delectable precincts of Nigger Wool
Swamp.
KILLING OF BENJAMIN CROSWHITE .
About the 1st of February , 1866 , Beverly F. Daniel killed Beuja

min Croswhite , Clerk of the Sturgeon Court of Common Pleas and
clerk in the dry goods store of Daniel Mayer , and a very estimable
young man . Mr. Croswhite was shot in the left temple with a pistol ,
the ball passing through the head, inflicting a wound of which he died
in a few minutes. Daniel was at once arrested by S. F. Cross , deputy
sheriff , and was tried before J. B. Jarman , justice of the peace , and
committed to jail on a charge of murder in the first degree . He died
in the Columbia jail while awaiting trial. There was a rumor at one
time that he did not die , but was spirited away, and the report of his
death circulated to cover his escape. There was no truth in the latter
report.
INDUSTRIES , INSTITUTIONS, ASSOCIATIONS, ETC. -STURGEON MILLS .
The “ Sturgeon Mills,” F. M. Truby , proprietor , were built ten or

twelve years since by Frank Suttles. The mills manufacture flour
and feed . They cover an area of 60x30 feet . They have recently
been fitted up with all of the latest improvements in mill machinery ;
make the “ new process " flour and have a liberal patronage . Their
capacity is about twenty -five barrels of flour a day .
THE MIDDLETON & TAYLOR MILLS.
These mills are among the best in the country . Recently there has
been added to the machinery a new lot, costing about $ 3,000 . A new
engine of 30 - horse power has been put in . There has also been a
considerable addition to the area and capacity of the mill made
recently . The mill power has four rpn of burrs . It makes the best
grades of flour , including the variety known as the “ new process .
Mr. F. W. Middleton had sole charge of the mill until in the spring
of 1882, when Mr. C. H. Taylor was taken in as partner. Messrs .
Middleton & Taylor have in connection with this mill a valuable hay
press , costing $6,000, which has a baling capacity of five tons a day.
STURGEON SAVINGS BANK .
The Sturgeon Savings Bank (now a private bank ) was organized

September 25 , 1879 , with a capital of $ 10,000 . The president is B.
P. Ritchie ; cashier , D. Mayer ; directors, C. F. Sames, W. H. and
J. S. Ritchie . B. F. Tucker is also a stockholder.
THE . STURGEON BANK .
This bank was first organized in the spring of 1877, by Wooldridge

& Carr . It was converted into a stock bank in the fall of 1878 , with
B. P. Ritchie , president, and F. E. Carr, cashier . The present offi
cers are M. H. Harris, president ; Dr. J. F. Keith , vice -president ; S.
W. Turner, cashier ; directors , J. M. Seymour, A. D. Spratt , Dr. J.
F. Keith , John F. Rucker , John Hazelrigg , M. H. Harris, S. W.
Turner. A general banking business is done, to the satisfaction of a
liberal number of patrons . The paid up capital stock of the bank is
$ 20,000 .
STURGEON GUN CLUB .
In the spring of 1879, Messrs . F. W.Middleton , J. A. Turner , W.

R. Harris, R. H. Edmonds and J. F. Keith organized the Sturgeon
Gun Club Edmonds was chosen president, and Keith secretary and
treasurer . The club has shot at Sturgeon , Moberly , and other
points, and made a fair record . One member has died since the
organization .
BROOM FACTORY .
The broom factory of S. A. Fretwell is quite an institution of its

kind. It was established in 1878. It has a capacity for turning out
thirty dozen of well-made brooms in a day. Brooms and brushes
both are manufactured , the latter made of jute, which is imported for
the purpose . Mr. Fretwell sells his wares in Columbia , Fulton , Mex
ico , and along the Wabash , St. Louis and Pacific Railway as far north
.as Ottumwa, Iowa. He also supplies the railway with brooms and
brushes . The broom -corn used is mostly grown in Boone, Callaway,
and Audrain counties . This section of Missouri is well adapted for
the cultivation of broom -corn . · Mr. Fretwell employs five workmen .
The shipping of railroad ties is a considerable industry in Stur
geon . The county , south and west, produces great numbers of them ,
and the average shipment is about 1,000 a day , or 300,000 in a year .
This has been an active business for fifteen or twenty years last
past .
Mr. J. M. Proctor has one of the largest and best orchards in Cen
tral Missouri on his premises in the north part of Sturgeon , just out
side of town . The orchard comprises an area of six or seven acres ,
and contains 600 apple trees , 400 peach trees , 150 pears, 50 apricots
and nectarines , 5,000 strawberries, besides raspberries , plums, cher
ries , and other fruits in great abundance . Rawle's Janet is considered
the best apple for all purposes , being especially the most reliable
bearer ; Ben Davis and the Northern Spy come next. The Ben Davis
is the most valuable for shipping. St.Louis is the best apple market
for this section of Missouri. ' Mr. Proctor has also a fine fish pond ,
an acre and a half in extent, stocked with the best varieties of fish ,
such as perch , land - locked and California salmon , buffalo and cat.
The pond furnishes Mr. Proctor with all of the best quality of fish
food that he desires . It was made in 1876 , and cost about $ 1,000.
It also furnishes about 100 tons of ice per year , besides abundant
water for stock .
Maj. John F. Rucker is about to undertake the erection of a town
hall , 50x60 feet in size , which will be a much appreciated institution
when completed , according to the specificationsmade.
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS .
By an act of the Legislature, approved January 10 , 1860, a Court

of Common Pleas was created to be held at Sturgeon . The first term
convened July 16 , 1860. Hon . Wm . A. Hall was the judge ; J. T.

Burnam , clerk ; Jno . R. Jacks , marshal. The first proceeding of
any sort was the naturalization of Louis Burkeye as a citizen of the
United States , with all of the high honors and privileges thereunto
belonging . The first civil action was on a promissory note — “ Polly
A. Fountain , plaintiff , v . Housen Canada, James D. Patton and Arch
ibald H. Wayne, defendants .”
The jurisdiction of this court extends over portions of Boone,
Audrain , Howard and Randolph , and is of great advantage to the
people within its precincts . Its sessions are from two days to a week
in length . The present officers are : Judge, Geo . H. Burckhartt ;
clerk , T. S. Carter ; marshal , F. M. Chaney .
OFFICIAL HISTORY .
The town of Sturgeon was first incorporated in the year 1859 , with
Housen Canada’as the first mayor . The charter was amended in 1875 ,
and under this the town is now running .
The mayors have been Housen Canada, Napoleon B. Burks,
Dyson , W. W. Stone, H. L. Gray, J. P. Merry , John F. Fisher,
John Butler, M. M. Jessee , G. W. Merry , C. B. Branhain , J. W.
Montrief. The present officers are : Mayor, W. J. Montrief ; mar
shal, J. H. Barnette ; treasurer, T. J. Croswhite ; clerk , J. V.
Kemper ; council, M. H. Harris, W. H.Welch , J. T. Jackson , R.H.
Edmonds, J. A. Turner , C. H. Taylor .
THE CHURCHES OF STURGEON .
The first religious services in Sturgeon were conducted by Rev.

James Barnes, a Baptist, who preached under an elm tree , down near
the branch , in the eastern part of towi . “ Uncle Jimmy ” was a
very popular minister in his pioneer ministrations. His biography is.
to be found elsewhere . There are those who deny that Rev. Barnes
was the first minister in Sturgeon that held services. They assert
that a Catholic priest from St. Louis was here while the railroad was
building, and held mass in one of the railroad houses .
Not long after the town was started , a lady preacher came along
and held forth on two or three occasions. Some people did not en
joy the spectacle of a lady in the pulpit, holding that a woman was
forbidden to speak in public , etc. One night the lady challenged
any one to deny her right to preach and teach , and expressed an
anxiety to discuss the matter publicly . Rev. Butts was in the con
gregation , but did not seem disposed to pick up the glove so defiantly
thrown down . He was urged to reply , but refused . Then the boys
threw buckshot at him , peppering him on all sides, and at last forced
him to his feet. He made a speech in opposition to the claims of the
lady, and denied her right to preach . He was especially severe on
the doctrine of “ woman's rights ” in general. The lady , in a short
but cutting reply , rather discomfited the reverend gentleman . Her
opening sentence was : “ Mr. Butts is butting against the wrong indi
vidual this time ! "
During the war , services were practically suspended in the place .

The Christian church was occupied by the Federals for a time as a
fortification . The house was occupied as barracks by the soldiers and
a heavy earthwork was thrown up around in case it should be at
tacked . Traces of the old ditches and embankment are still to be
seen .
M. E. CHURCH SOUTH .
The congregation of this church was first organized in old Buena

Vista , or Bourbonton , as far back as in 1851. Upon the laying out of
Sturgeon the organization was removed to the latter place in 1857 .
Someof the originalmembers of the church were Nicholas S. Woods
and his wife , Leantha Woods ; John Baker and his wife, Nancy Baker ;
Franklin Green and his wife, Elizabeth Green ; John Dusky and wife ,
and Joseph Keene. The church building was erected in 1859 ; it is a
frame and cost about $ 2,000. It is still standing, its location being on
lots 6 and 7 , block 37. It was dedicated in April, 1860, by Rev. W.
G. Miller . The pastors have been Revs. David Fisher, Wesley Hat
ton , Wm . Saxton , P. M. Pinkard , S. P. Cope, Faubion ,
Eads , Joseph H. Pritchett , James Smith , George Sexton , John Tay
lor, Wm . M. Wood , G. W. Rich , T. De Moss, Wm . M. Wood , John
Shores , D. H. Root, and Robt. White .
CHURCH OF CHRIST .
This church stands on lots 13 and 14 of block 51, and is a neat and
commodious frame building . It was begun in 1859 and completed in
1860. The congregation was first organized in 1858 , by Elders P.
Dibble , and F. M. Allen , and re -organized by Clayton Keith Septem
ber 24 , 1866. The original members were John Foreman , wife
and son , William ; John R. Jacks and wife ; William Hargis and wife ,
and others . The pastors that have served this church are the follow
ing : J. M. Berry , S. P. Hollis , Gill, G. A. Perkins, M. M.
Davis, J. H. Hardin , and 0. A. Carr. The present membership

is reported as ninety -nine.
CATHOLIC CHURCH .
This church is situated in Rochford's addition to Sturgeon . The

church organization was first founded in the year 1866. The original
members were Michael Moynihan , Michael Spellman , Philip Spellman ,
Dennis Benson , Bryan Nolan , James Connors , Chas . Lanham , John
Moynihan, Wm . Moynihan , and Duncan McDonald . The church
building was erected in 1868. It is a frame and cost about $ 3,000 .
It has not yet been dedicated . The pastors in charge of the church
have been Fathers O'Neal, McCabe , McKinney , Stack , and Dempsey .
Father Twohey , the curate , from Moberly , now celebrates mass. The
present number of members is about 35 .
CIVIC SOCIETIES MASONIC LODGE .
Sturgeon Lodge , No. 174 , A. F. and A.M., was instituted by Hen

derson Davis , the first master. The dispensation was issued in 1855 .
The charter bears date May, 1857. The charter members were Hen
derson Davis, W.W.Stone, Wharton Schooler , Dr. W. H. Callaway,
Daniel Mayer, James D. Patton , Housen Canada,and others . The first
officers were Henderson Davis, W.M.; James D. Patton , treasurer ;
Wharton Schooler , secretary . (Other officers' names not furnished .)
The present officers are : Master, S. W. Turner ; senior warden ,
John Loux ; junior warden , Anthony Wayne ; treasurer , John F.
Rucker ; secretary , S. F. Cross ; senior deacon , F. E. Bruton ;
junior deacon , J. W. Pickett. The present membership is 62. The
lodge meets in a frame hall that was built in the year 1859 , at a cost
of about $ 1,600 . The Hallsville and Centralia lodges were formed
mostly of members from Sturgeon lodge ; and some members were
furnished to constitute Harrisburg and Morality lodges.
UNITED WORKMEN .
Sturgeon lodge No. 174 , A. 0. U. W., was instituted by D. G.

M.W. Bonney . Its charter and dispensation are dated Au
gust 13th , 1878. The charter members were T. S. Carter, M. H.
Harris , W.H. Goin , A. J. Wren , S. W. Turner , R. H. Edmonds, S.
F. Cross , J. S. Powers, Geo . L. Mitchell , J. T. Jackson , Geo . W. Bat
terton , W.W.Lyon , J. M.McComas , R. P. Hopkins, Wm . Prowell,
Geo . W. Hubbard , C. D. Croswhite , L. W. White , R. D. Rucker ,
-
J. F. Rucker , J. M. Hawkins, S. O. Titus, F. W. Middleton , S. W.

Shryock , J. A. Turner, P. M.Hutton , T. A. Cassity . The first of
ficers were : S. W. Turner, P. M. W .; G. W. Batterton , M. W .; T.
S. Carter , G. F .; R. H. Edwards, 0 .; A. J. Wren , F .; F. W.
in
;
Middleton , G .; J. M. Hawkins, J. W .; J. T. Jackson , O. W .; S. O.
Titus, R. ; S. W. Shryock , receiver . The present officers are : S.
W. Turner , P. M. W .; T. S. Carter , M. W .; W.H. Goin , G. F .;
G. W. Batterton , O .; S. T. Davis , R .; John Stolts , receiver ; S. F.
Cross , financier ; E. S. Hawkins, J. W .; T. G. Sims, O. W .; M.
T. Wade, G. The present membership is sixty- six . During this
term the lodge has lost only one member', James H. McBride , who
died January 17 , 1881. The loss was promptly paid . One member
was suspended and in about two weeks thereafter committed suicide.
During the year 1881, fifteen new members were admitted to mem
bership . The lodge is in good financial condition and thoroughly
The lodge
prosperous .
KNIGHTS OF HONOR .
Sturgeon lodge No. 2134 , was instituted by Grand Reporter Peter

Keffer . The dispensation was issued April 3d , 1880. The first mem
bers were : S. W. Turner , J. T Jackson , T. M. Smith , Dr. J. F.
Keith , John Hazelrigg , P. M. Hutton , S. M. Smith , M.M. Clark , J.
H. Winscott , D. Miller, John J. Canada, John W. Owens, J. H.
Barnett, Y. E. Riggs . The first officers were : John Hazelrigg , dic
tator ; M.M. Clark , vice dictator ; P. M. Hutton , assistant dictator ;
S. W. Turner, past dictator ; J. W. Owens reporter ; J. H. Win
scott , financial reporter ; J. T. Jackson , treasurer ; J. F. Keith ,
medical examiner ; D. Miller , guide . The present officers are : J. T.
Jackson , dictator ; J. H. Barnett , vice dictator ; Ed . Jarman , assistant
dictator ; John Owens, reporter ; W. H. Winscott , financial reporter ;
John Stolts treasurer ; Frank Bruton, guide ; P. M.Hutton , chaplain ;.
C. H. Prather, guardian ; F.M. Truby, sentinel ; J. F. Keith , med
ical examiner. The present membership is forty -two. The hall in
which the lodge meets is rented . This lodge has had no deaths since
its organization . The Order of Knights of Honor was instituted in the
United States , June 30 , 1874. Total number of members June 30 ,
1881 , 112,155 ; assessments during the same period , 91. Losses
paid , $5,395,093.65 . Total number of members in the State of
Missouri, Deceinber 31, 1881, 5,441. Total cash on hand and in
vested for the State , $ 23,617.31. Total deaths in Missouri to
December 31, 1881, 122 , one-half of these were half rate . Altogether
the beneficiaries received $ 243,000 . The report of the Grand Lodge

is highly satisfactory , considering that the order passed through the
yellow fever period , during which its losses were excessive .
THE STURGEON SCHOOLS .
As previously stated , the first school house in Sturgeon was built in

1857. The pine lumber of which the house was built was brought from
Hannibal ; the oak was procured at home. At first the house had but
two rooms, one above the other . Considerable additions have been
made to it since, however. The house was built expressly for school pur
poses , but it was afterward sold to the Catholic church , and still later
repurchased for $ 1,000 . The town trustees had promised a school
house free gratis to the people , but failed to fulfill that promise , as it
is said they did certain others .
A Mr. Dewey was the first school teacher in Sturgeon . He had a
good school and received about $ 100 per month .
Prof. S. T. Davis is the present principal of the Sturgeon school.
In the last term , ending in March , S. 0. Titus was first assistant till
Christmas and after him was J. A. Hatchett. The other teachers
were Miss D. Annie Allison and Miss Rena M. Redmond . The
town has about six months' public school and three months' private
school, two teachers being engaged in the latter. The following is an
abstract of the report for the term ending March 17 , 1882 :
Number of pupils enrolled — White , males , 124 ; females , 104 ;
total, 228. · Average daily attendance , 149.
Colored School – Males, 29 ; females , 44 ; total, 73 . Average
daily attendance , 38 .
Total enrollment in both schools, 301. Average daily attendance
in both 187. Increase in enrollment over last year , 32 ; increase in
attendance 30 .
The present school officials are Joseph Seymour, president ; T. S.
Carter , clerk ; Silas Fretwell , treasurer ; D. Mayer , F. M. Chaney,
and L. Sweeney , trustees .
STURGEON CEMETERY .
The original town cemetery was deeded to the public by the town
company , in 1857 . It contained about five acres . Its location
was inside of the corporate limits . No one was ever buried in this
cemetery. It was soon sold and another purchased a half-mile west
of the town . This , the present cemetery , contains about six acres .
The first burial therein was that of John B. Smith , Esq . , one of the
original proprietors of the town. It is asserted that Mr. Smith was
the first citizen of the place that died ; but those who perhaps know
best deny this , and say that Miss Hukle , before mentioned , died before
Mr. Smith . Besides their own cemetery the citizens of Sturgeon use
Pisgah graveyard , across the line , in Audrain , and Mt. Horeb , a mile
or so south of town , as burying grounds.
THE STURGEON LEADER .”
There had been several papers started at Sturgeon previous to the

advent of the Leader in 1869. John W. Jacks, a practical printer ,
was the founder. It was not a success, financially , under his manage
ment, and at last suspended in 1872. In 1873, its present proprietor,
T. S. Carter , purchased the office, and in May, 1873, issued the first
number of the paper under the new management. The paper is a six
column folio . It has a good circulation in Boone, Audrain , Randolph,
Monroe and Howard counties . It is Democratic in politics , but liberal
in sentiment. It is a live, earnest, reliable local paper , giving all the

news within the range of its circulation , at the exclusion if necessary
of foreign matter. This feature of the Leader has given it a wide cir
culation , and made the paper an indispensable visitor in almost every
household for miles around . The Leader , in Mr. Carter's hards,
has not only given satisfaction to its patrons , but has proved a pay
ing enterprise to its publisher .
BIOGRAPHIES.
J. H. ALEXANDER .
J. H. Alexander , farmer , was born in Mercer County , Kentucky,

December 2d , 1815 . His father , Joshua Alexander , was a native of
Georgia , removing first to Kentucky, and thence to Missouri, in
1818 , settling in Perche township , about eight miles south of where
J. H. Alexander now resides. He died Jan. 27th , 1867. Mrs. Alex
ander , nee Rowland , was a native of Kentucky. She died January
13th , 1842. The subject of this sketch came to Missouri with his
parents in 1818 , and has lived in Boone county ever since . Hc
was raised on a farm , and has followed agricultural pursuits all his
1 Arranged alphabetically .
37
life . Hemoved to his present home February 1st, 1839. Was mar
ried April 8th , 1838, to Miss Emeline, daughter of Armstead and
Sarah (Wade ) Carter. They have seven children living and three
dead . The living are : Joslina C., James T.,George W., Elizabeth
J., wife of C. G. King ; Martha E., married to Mr. Copher ; Mary
Alice and Emeline. Mrs. Alexander died January 14th , 1870. Mr.
Alexander has been a member of the old school Baptist Church for
forty - five years. He is of Irish origin . He is a good citizen , a kind
neighbor and a worthy man in every sense of the term .
J. B. ALLISON ,
J. B. Allison , farmer , near Sturgeon, is the son of Alexander and

Jemima (nee Crawford ) Allison . His mother was the daughter of
James Crawford , one of the first settlers of Boone county. His
father came to Boone county in 1815, and settled about six miles
north of Colunibia . He helped to make the first wagon road ever
opened in Boone county . It was called the Boone's Lick road . The
elder Allison died October 13th , 1861. The subject of this sketch
was born six miles north of Columbia , September 7 , 1828. When
about five years old his father moved over on Salt River . He lost
his mother when eight years old . The children were then scattered ,
no two of them growing up in the same place . The first money ever
earned by J. B. Allison was spent in educating a sister . The family
were brought up under very unfortunate circumstances . The subject
of this sketch was apprenticed out at the tanner's trade, which he fol
lowed untilhe was twenty -one years old . From twenty - one to twenty
two , he taught school. He was principally raised in the vicinity of
Florida , Monroe county , Missouri. Was married , November 14th ,
1850, to Miss Elizabeth , daughter of Benjamiu and Martha Woodson ,
and a niece of Warren Woodson, who was clerk of the Boone county
court for forty years. They have eight children living : George W.and
Benjamin A., attorneys , at McPherson , Kansas ; Annie and Belle ,
teachers in the public schools ; John S., Emma J., William Mosley
and Mary H. Mr. and Mrs. Allison are both menibers of the Meth
odist church . Mr. Allison is a self-educated man . After marrying
he engaged for several years in selling lightning rods and chain pumps .
He afterwards followed farming . He was marshal of the common
pleas court at Sturgeon for eight years . He was the Republican non
inee for the legislature in 1866 against Major James S. Rollins. Mr.
Allison was an unconditional Union man during the late war.
-- -
GEORGE W. BATTERTON .
George W. Batterton, Democratic nominee for the legislature, was

born in Boone County , about seven miles north of Columbia , Decem
ber 9 , 1837, and grew to manhood on his father's farm . His grand
father , Moses Batterton , emigrated from Kentucky to Missouri about
the year 1820 , and settled on Callaham's creek , about seven miles
west of Columbia . His father , LemuelB. Batterton , was born in
1801, and learned the cabinet-maker's trade in Kentucky. He came
with his father to Boone County in 1820. About four years after his
marriage he bought the place where George W.was born , upon which
he lived and died , his death occurring in 1869. He married Mary
Lynch , a native of Kentucky . Her ancestors came from near Lynch
burg , Virginia , which city was named after a member of hor family .
Mr. and Mrs. Batterton raised eight sons and two daughters to man
hood and womanhood . The subject of this sketch left home when
about eighteen years of age and labored for wages which he spent in
educating himself. When about twenty years of age he commenced
teaching in the public schools and continụed in this business , with
slight intervals , for about six years . Was a soldier in the Confederate
army for about nine months. Belonged to McKinney's company ,
known as the “ Blackfoot Rangers .” Was in the battle of Wilson
Creek , Lexington , and Drywood . Went to Nebraska in 1864 wbere
he worked on a farm and taught school until the close of the war .
Came back in 1866 and went to farming in Audrain county . After
raising one crop be removed to the Two -mile Prairie , in Boone coun
ty , where he farmed , taught school and bought and shipped stock un
til 1870. He then removed to Vernon county , Missouri, where
he farmed for eighteen months. Sold his farm in 1872 and removed to
Montana where he followed mining until 1876 , when he returned to
Audrain county and resumed farming which he has followed ever
since . His farm is situated one -half mile from Sturgeon in Audrain
county . Was elected a justice of the peace in 1878 and has held the
office ever since. He is an earnest, conscientious Democrat, having
never voted any other ticket. His first vote was for John C. Breck
enridge for president. Mr. Batterton was first married in 1863 to
Sophia E., daughter of Robert and Sophia (Barnes ) Gillaspie . First
wife died January 26 , 1872 . There were no children by this mar
riage . Was married , April 8 , 1873 , to Lizzie , daughter of Judge B.
P. Ritchie . They have three children living and two dead . The liv .
ing are Annie Sue, James Ritchie and Mary Lula . First wife was a
member of the Christian church . Mr. Batterton is a member of the
A. 0. U. W. He is of Irish , German and French origin .
FRANK E. BRUTON .
Frank E. Bruton , salesman for Rucker & Turner , Sturgeon , Mo.,

is the son of Dr. F. J. and Nettie B. ( Fenwick ) Bruton . He was
born and raised in Boone county , Missouri. His father and mother
are natives of Kentucky . Mr. Bruton commenced active business at
the early age of fourteen , and has continued without intermission ever
since . He is at this writing engaged as a salesman in the store of
Messrs. Rucker & Turner , and has given eminent satisfaction to his
employers and won the esteem and confidence of all his patrons.
He was married April 19, 1882, to Ida , daughter of Joseph B.
Harris . He is a member of the Christian church , also of the
Masonic and Knights of Honor lodges.
JOHN BUTLER .
John Butler , the subject of this sketch , was born in County Tip
perary , Ireland, September 10 , 1825. He is the son of John and
Mary Butler . The elder Butler left Ireland when his son was but
two years old , coming first to New York City . The family finally
settled near Albany, where Mr. Butler took a contract on the first
railroad ever built in the United States. This road connected Albany
and Schenectady. John Butler owned a hotel on this line, called the
Half-way House , where the trains stopped for dinner . He took his
son with him on the first train of cars that ever passed over the road .
The first package of freight ever sent over the road was consigned to
the elder Butler , who preserved the receipt, signed by John Hamp
son , the first engineer on the road . It is dated either in 1831 or
1832 , and was given in acknowledgment of fourteen shillings paid by
John Butler on the package delivered to him from the train on its
first business trip over the road . Mr. Butler , having received the
contract for building a turnpike from Troy , New York, to Benning
ton , Vermont, removed to Oneida county, where he died . Mrs.
Butler is still living in Oneida county , New York . The subject of
this sketch remained at home until 1852. In the fall of that year he
went to California , where he remained for three years , returning to
New York in 1855 , and from there he came to Boone county, by way
of Jefferson City , crossing the country on foot. , Mr. Butler was first
-
married October 16 , 1847, to Miss Jane, daughter of Henry and Jane

McGrah, of Hoosick , New York . Had five children by this marriage,
two of whom , William and Annie , are now living . The former mar
ried Zelo Hawkins, the latter Thornton Stewart. The first wife hav
ing died in 1862 , Mr. Butler was married to his second wife , January
2 , 1875. He is now living with his third wife , whose maiden name
was Leticia Hill, daughter of Eli Hill, of Sturgeon . Have had three
children , two of whom are living, Martin and Mary . Mr. Butler is
a mechanic, and as such entered the army in 1862. He is a member
of the Masonic lodge at Sturgeon . His wife is a member of the
Christian church . He has done as much , perhaps more , to advance
the interest and prosperity of Sturgeon than any other individual of
the place . He has built a great inany houses, and by this means con
tributed largely to the size of the town as well as to the number of
its inhabitants . He is a man of considerable means, all of which he
earned by his own labor and prudent management. He has engaged
in many enterprises, and has prospered in all his undertakings. He
is a carpenter, and his skill as such has served him to the best advan
tage in improving his own lands. He owns, in addition to his
town property , about seven hundred acres of land , much of which
he has redeemed from a howling wilderness. . He started the Stur
geon broom factory , now owned by S. A. Fretwell. He also made
the Commercial Hotel a profitable business before selling out to its
present proprietor, W. E. Smith .
THOMAS S. CARTER .
Thomas S. Carter, editor and proprietor of the Sturgeon Leader ,

was born in Monroe county , East Tennessee, November 14 , 1843. He
is the son of Lewis and Elizabeth (nee Parker ) Carter. The elder
Carter was a Methodist minister . The subject of this sketch came to
Missouri in 1860, and settled in Hickory county . Went south at the
breaking out of the war. Came to North Missouri in 1864 and en
gaged in farining until 1870 , when he l'emoved to Sturgeon where he
was engaged as marshal of the town for two terms. He was also a
member of the board of education . In 1874 , he was appointed clerk
of the court of common pleas , which position he has held continuously
ever since . He has represented the Democratic party several times
in State conventions , and was one of the delegates to the Cincinnati
presidential convention in 1880 . Served one session as docket
clerk of the Thirtieth General Assembly . He was secretary of
the Missouri Press Association for three years . He was married

December 6 , 1876 , to Miss Melissa , daughter of John and Nancy
Baker , a native of Boone county . They have four children living :
Lora E., Maud M., Pearl and Boone. Mrs. Carter is a mem
ber of the Methodist Church South . Mr. Carter was educated at
Hiwassee College, Tennessee . He is of Welsh descent on his father's

side. His mother was a native of Tennessee . He landed in Sturgeon
without a dollar , and has by his own individual exertions and energy :
accumulated a competence as well as an influential position in the
community where he resides.
SAMUEL F. CROSS .
Samuel F. Cross was born in Nashville , Tennessee , October 11 ,

1834 . From Nashville he went to Frankfort , Kentucky , and from
there to Cincinnati, finally settling in Rush County , Indiana. Was
married October 18 , 1855 , to Edith P., daughter of Philip and Ann
Nicholas , of Indiana . Had three children by this marriage, all of
whom are living. Their names are Benjamin F., Louis H., and
Edwin P. The first wife dying in 1862, he was married the second
time, December 11, 1863, to Susan F., daughter of Robert and Susan
F. Adams. They had several children by this marriage, all of whom
are living . Their names are Carrie B., Joel P., Mary E., Sarah ,
George W., Ellen W., and Fleming Rucker. Mrs. Cross died June
2d, 1880. Mr. Cross came to Sturgeon April 28th , 1857. His first
business was carpentering . He afterwards engaged in the drug busi
ness , which he followed for about ten years . He was commissioned a
notary public in 1864 , and has held the office ever since. He is
financier of the A. O. U. W., and secretary of the Masonic lodge .

He was commissioned postmaster at Sturgeon , February 7th , 1862 ,
but had charge of the office for a year previous, under John P. Hor
ner, now of Columbia , Missouri. He held this office for seven years ,
retiring when the present postmaster was appointed . Was elected
clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in 1864 , and held the office for
two years .
He is a member of the M. E. Church South . He is also
a member of the Good Templar, Masonic and United Workmen
lodges . He has been marshal of the town and member of the board
of education and city council. He is a Democrat in politics .
JOHN H. CROSWHITE .
John H.Croswhite, son of James and Frances ( Hughes ) Croswhite ,

was born in Bourbon county, Kentucky, August 11th , 1824. He

came to Boone county with his parents in the autumn of 1826 , and
settled five miles north of Columbia , where they remained for about
fifteen years. In 1841 they removed to Audrain county , and settled
two and a half miles north of Sturgeon . The elder Croswhite died on
this farm . Mrs. Croswhite is still living, at the advanced age of
eighty -six years. The subject of this sketch was raised on the farm ,
and has followed that occupation all his life , and with more than usual
success . He also bought mules for the Southeru market, making his
annual drives for many years in succession . Was married December
31st, 1851, to Susan L., daughter of Joshua and Jane Lampton , of
Boone county . Lived for two years near Hallsville ; then moved to
his present place of residence , one and a half miles north of Sturgeon .
He went to California in 1864 , where he staid several years . Was
also for a while a resident of Carson City , Nevada . The Croswhites
were originally from Albemarle county , Virginia , and are believed to
be of Welsh descent. The subject of this sketch owns a nice farm of ,
220 acres, forty of which is in timber. Mrs. Croswbite belongs to
the Methodist church at Centralia . They have no children .
WILLIAM R. CROSWHITE .
William R. Croswhite was born in Audrain county , near Sturgeon ,

February 27 , 1857. He is the son of Robert and Mary (nee Palmer ) .
Croswhite . His father was born in Kentucky, but came to Audrain
county in an early day and settled on the farm where he now resides.
He is actively engaged in farming and stock raising . William R. was
raised on the farm and educated at the common schools of the county .
In 1881 he attended D. L. Musselman's Commercial College , Quincy ,
Illinois, graduating from that institution , August 25 , 1881. Return
ing to Sturgeon , he was engaged as a salesman in the store of Rucker
& . Turner , which position he now holds. He is a polite , affable gen
tleman , highly esteemed by all who know him .
ISAAC S. CROSWHITE .
Isaac S. Croswhite was born in Audrain county , four miles north

of Sturgeon , December 12 , 1844. He is the son of John R. and Rosa
(Mosely ) Croswhite, formerly of Clark county , Kentucky. Thesub
ject of this sketch was raised in Audrain county where he lived most
of his life . He was brought up on the farm . Lived a few years in
Carrollton , Missouri. Was married , July 6 , 1869, to Miss Amanda
Catherine, daughter of Barnabas Woods, who lived six miles south of

Sturgeon . Have one child , living, Minnie L. Mr. Croswhite took
no part in the late civil war. He is a member of the Old School
Baptist Church . Is not a member of any secret order . He is a cley
er gentleman , highly esteemed by all who know him .
WILLIAM DINWIDDIE .
William Dinwiddie is the son of Samuel and Patsy (McBride) Din

widdie . He was born in Lincoln county, Kentucky, December 18 ,
1833. When six years old he camewith his parents to Boone county ,
Missouri, and settled four miles east of Columbia , where he continu
ously resided up to the day of his death , which occurred about the
close of the war . The subject of this sketch was brought up on a
farm , and has followed that business since attaining his majority .
He was married , November 8 , 1855 , to Sarah Ann , daughter of Cyrus
and Kittie ( Crockett ) Lusk , natives of Kentucky. The autumn fol
lowing his marriage , he left Boone county , Missouri, previously the
home of both himself and wife , and went to Kansas, settling in the
vicinity of Topeka . Was there when the war broke out between the
Southern and Northern settlers over the slavery question . He re
turned to Boone County and farmed in the vicinity of Mt. Moriah
church for several years ; then moved to Bourbon township just pre
vious to the war , where he has lived ever since . They have seven
children , three sons and four daughters. Their names are Kittie ,
Mattie F., Lulie, Emma, William , Alonzo and Edwin . Mr. Dinwid
die is a well-educated man , having had , in addition to a fair common
school education , the benefit of three years ' study at the State Uni
versity . He is a member of the Christian Church . Mrs. Dinwiddie
is a member of the Baptist Church . He is also a member of the Or
der of United Workmen . He has been a school director ever since
he came to Bourbon township . He has always voted with the Demo
cratic party . He is of Scotch and German origin .
HON . HENRY DUSENBURY , DECEASED .
Hon . Henry Dusenbury was born on the banks of the Hudson river ,
New York , in which State he was reared to manhood , and married to
Miss M. E. Depew . After his marriage he removed to St. Louis, Mis
souri,where he served as circuit court judge for thirteen years. His
health having failed he removed to a farm near Oakland , St. Louis

county , where he remained for about twelve years. He next moved
to a farm near Sturgeon , where he and his wife died a few years after
wards. They were both members of the Methodist church . Judge
Dusenbury was also a Mason . He was educated principally at home,
under the instructions of a private tutor . Hewas a Democrat in poli
tics and a descendant of one of the old German families of New York .
He had nine children in all, six of whom are now living - three sons
and three daughters . Their names are Henry , Mary E., married to
G.W. Henderson, of Columbia , Missouri ; Lulu V. B., married to R.
D. Rucker ; Fannie , Robert D.and R. M. Robert D. Dusenbury was
born at Oakland, St. Louis county , February 10th , 1861, and came
with his father to Boone county and lived with him until his death , in
1873. He was educated at the Missouri State University . After re
ceiving a diploma from that institution he took a commercial course
and then studied telegraphy . R. M. Dusenbury is studying medicine
under Dr. Lockridge, of Sturgeon . He attended one course of lec
tures at the Medical College , St. Louis, in 1881–82, and will graduate
at the ensuing term of that institution .
RICHARD H. EDMONDS.
Richard H. Edmonds, salesman with Rucker & Turner , Sturgeon ,

Missouri, was born in Fauquier county , Virginia , September 25th ,
1845. He is the son of Thomas and Alice Olivia (nee Beal ) Edmonds.
Though but a boy when the war commenced , he enlisted in Captain
William H. Payne's company ,which was a portion of Turner Ashby's
famous Black Horse Cavalry. His captain was afterwards promoted
to the position of general. His next captain was Robert Randolph ,
and the third was A. D. Payne. He was in the first battle at Manas
sas , also at Seven Pines, and in the famous raid around McClellan's
army near Richmond . Was in the second battle of Manassas , and at
Sharpsburg and Brandy Station . Was with Gen. Early in his cam
paign in the Valley of Virginia, and at Gettysburg . He was in
Stewart's second raid around the Federal army in Maryland . Was
in the battle of Spottsylvania Court House , and at Yellow Tavern ,
where Gen. J. E. B. Stuart was killed , also the captain of the com
pany in which Mr. Edmonds was serving . Was in the battles around
Petersburg , finally surrendering at Appomattox Court House , in 1865 .
There were but about twenty- five of his original command left. Mr.
Edmonds received a terrible wound at Harper's Ferry , being shot
through the left breast with a minie ball. He was with Mosby at
the time. Mr. Edmonds was the youngest of five brothers, all of
whom entered the Confederate army. One of them was killed at

Seven Pines, and the subject of this sketch , and two other brothers ,
were severely wounded . When the war closed he returned home
and raised a crop . The next season they sold out, and Mr. Edmonds
went into the mercantile business in Alexandria , as a salesman ,
remaining there two years. He then took charge of a store at Linden ,
Virginia , where he remained until he came to Missouri. He came to
Sturgeon in 1869 and engaged in business with Maj. Rucker as sales
inan . He remained in the store for about two years, when he removed
to Harrisburg and commenced business for himself in partnership with
a man named Rowland. Their store was destroyed by fire and Mr.
Edmonds removed to Columbia , where he engaged in business with a
man named Campbell, also with the firm of Wells & Marks. Remained
two years at Columbia and then returned to Sturgeon and resumed
his former position in the store of Rucker & Turner , which he still
holds, being head clerk and manager of the establishment . He was
married , February 13th , 1872 , to Miss Annie M., daughter of James
P. and Sallie L. Harris , natives of Bourbon county , Kentucky. They
have two children , Hattie May and Ida Lyell. Mrs. Edmonds is a
member of the Methodist Church South . Mr. Edmonds is a member
of the city council. He is also a member of the Ancient Order
United Workmen . He is a genial, affable gentleman , possessing
every qualification of a first- class business man .
HOWARD EVANS .
Howard Evans, farmer , is the son of Richard and Elizabeth ( Nichol

son ) Evans, natives of Kentucky, who emigrated to Howard county ,
Missouri, about the year 1824 , where they remained fifteen years, re
moving to Boone county in 1839. He settled on a farm southwest of
Sturgeon where he lived until his death in the autumn of 1875, aged
seventy -four years . The subject of this sketch was born in Howard
county , Missouri, April 15 , 1825 . When fourteen years of age his
parents removed to Boone county . Except twelve or thirteen years
spent in California , Mr. Evaus has lived in this county ever since.
While in California he followed mining . Since his return from the
mines he has followed farming. The subject of this sketch was mar
ried April 27 , 1860 , to Sarah , daughter of Tandy Robinson , a native
of Virginia . They have eight children living. Their names are
Marcus, Lillie Lee , Mary Elizabeth , Vienna , Susan F., Martha E.,
James H., Albert A.
W. H. FOUNTAIN .
W. H.Fountain , farmer, of Randolph county , Missouri, is of Eng

lish origin , his great-grandfather, on his father's side, having been
exiled from England in 1760 , on account of religious disturbances
which prevailed in the old country at that time. His grandfather was
one of the pioneer settlers of Kentucky, and a great hunter , being re
markably proficient as a marksman . The father of W. H. was born
in Clark county , Kentucky , his mother in Bourbon county , of that
State . The grandfather. of Mr. Fountain ernigrated to Missouri in
1815 , when his son , the father of W. H., was about seventeen years
old . They settled on Lick Fork , in section 27 , his residence being
in the northwest quarter . His father was married in this county to
Lucy Ann Angell, March 13th , 1838 , Young E. Hicks , a justice of
the peace , solemnizing the marital obligation . W. H. Fountain was
born February 17th , 1839. He has one brother living. Another
brother was drowned in Smoke river, while crossing the plains, July
17th , 1863. W. H. Fountain moved to Randolph county in 1870 .
He has two farms, the one upon which he is now living, and another
in Boone county . Most of his business is in this county, and he
thinks of returning to Boone to live . Mr. Fountain was first
married , February 15th , 1866, to Miss Julia , daughter of Thomas A.
and Martha Barnes, of Randolph county . She died in 1872, leaving
three children , Radford M., Martha A., and Otis . Married second
time to Miss Rachel, daughter of Eli and Eliza Lyons, of Boone
county . They have two children , John F. and Eliza Beulah . He
has crossed the plains some half-dozen times . He was in company
with his brother when the latter lost his life , in 1863. Is a member
of the Baptist church . He is also a member of the Knights of Honor .
He is a Democrat in politics . Mr. Fountain is an enterprising farmer ,
stock raiser and trader. He has shipped as many as 138 car loads of
stock in one year . So far this season ( summer of 1882) he and his
brother-in -law , his partner in the business, have shipped over 1,000
head of cattle . They ship from various points . Most of the Fountain
family emigrated to Oregon years ago . The family, on the maternal
side , is of Irish origin , the grandfather of Mr. Fountain having been
born and raised in that country .
S. A. FRETWELL .
S. A. Fretwell, proprietor of the Sturgeon broom factory , was born

in Boone county , October 9 , 1846. He is the son of Joseph and Han
nah (nee Riggs ) Fretwell. His father is an active , energetic farmer

and stock raiser. The subject of this sketch was raised on the farm
and followed agricultural pursuits until he went into the broom busi
ness at Sturgeon . He has a large establishment and employs only
skilled labor. The brooms made at this factory are not inferior to
the best, and his facilities are equal to that of any manufactory in the
State outside of St. Louis. Mr. Fretwell was married , March 6 , 1867 ,
to Mary H., daughter of William and Martha Lampton . They have
one son , William J. Mr. and Mrs. Fretwell are members of the
Christian church . He is a member of the order of A. 0. U.W. He
is an active , energetic business man , and by industry and prudence is
building up a prosperous and reliable trade.
WILLIAM H. GOIN .
William H. Goin was born in Boone county , Missouri, January 5 ,

1834. He is the son of Archibald and Sophia (Hunter ) Goin . The
subject of this sketch was reared on a farm . About the year 1869
he commenced merchandising in Sturgeon . He had previously clerked
in a store when a boy. He was married , January 6 , 1856 , to Miss
E. J. Sweeney , daughter of Archibald Sweeney , who was a justice of
the peace for Bourbon township for a number of years . They have
five children , all living - Emma, Byron A., Idella , Archie and Au
brey . Mr. Goin is a man of considerable culture . His opportunities ,
when young, were poor , but, by hard study and close application , he
has in a great measure overcome the disadvantages of early life , and
with small thanks to any one but himself, can boast a fair education ,
which for all practical purposes is not inferior to that of many of our
college graduates. The acquisition of property , as well as education,
has also been by his individual efforts . He has travelled extensively
in connection with the cattle business , visiting some seventeen States .
He is a member of the firm of Goin & Lockridge , which has been in
existence since 1870 .
GEORGE W. GULICK .
George W.Gulick , the subject of this sketch , is a native of Loudon

county , Virginia , as were both his parents , William and Mary (Hix
son ) Gulick . Both his grandfathers were Virginians and majors in
the revolutionary war . His father served in the war of 1812. George
W. was born April 13 , 1830 . He grew to manhood in his native
county , and was educated partly at the country schools, completing
his education at Loudon Agricultural and Chemical Institute . After
-
finishing a thorough course of studies at this college, he entered at

once upon the active duties of life. His proficiency was such that
on quitting Loudon Institute, he was elected an honorary member
of the Literary Society of Hampden - Sidney College, Virginia .
He was married , October 13 , 1857, to Miss Mittie E., daughter of
William J. and Lucinda Carr . She was a native of Loudon
county , Virginia . They have eight children now living : William
E., Carr , Kate C., Mary L., Walter O., George T., Hattie and
Pearl. Mr. Gulick removed to Boone county , Missouri, in 1857,
and settled about two miles from where he now lives. Himself
and wife are members of the Baptist church . He is also an Odd
Fellow and a member of the Order of United Workmen . He served
as a justice of the peace for Bourbon township for two terms.
He is also a member of the Boone county Democratic central com
mittee . He is of German origin on his father's side. His mother
was of Scotch descent . Mr. Gulick is an energetic , well-to -do
citizen , and is held in high esteem by all who know him .
MARSHALL H. HARRIS .
The life of Marshall H. Harris , postmaster and druggist, Sturgeon ,

Missouri, is one of the very best illustrations of the self-made man .
His energy and will-power can hardly be surpassed , and all his efforts
have been made in an honorable , manly direction . He is the son of
Overton G. and Nancy (nee Ellington ) Harris. His father was almost
entirely raised in Boone county , his grandfather , Tyre Harris , having
come to Boone along with the very first emigrants. He was one of
the first representatives in the legislature from Boone county , having
been elected for several terms. A more extended review of his ser
vices in this capacity may be found elsewhere in this volume. The
subject of this sketch attended school in one of the primitive log
cabins which in the early day were made to answer the purpose of
school-houses . After he was grown, however, he attended Lathrop
Academy , an excellent high school, for two years . He read medical
books by firelight , substituting, from enforced economy, hickory bark

for candles . He graduated in a brown jeans suit made by one of his
sisters. He was married March 1st , 1855, to Miss Mary J., daughter
of Dr. A. S. Dinwiddie , of Boone county . They have three children ,
Carrie , Walter and Mattie . Mr. Harris was a member of Company
· F , of General Guitar's regiment of M. S. M., enlisted in March ,
1862, and was mustered out in April, 1865 . He served under Capt .
Cook , who was detached from his company much of the time, leaving
it in charge of Mr. Harris . He was in most of the fights and
skirmishes in which his regiment took part, from the date of his en
listment to the close of the war. He had charge of the garrison at
Columbia for some time. During the war he made hosts of friends
among Confederates and Southern sympathizers by his many acts of
kindness and generous sympathy for the unfortunate. He is thor
oughly identified with the community in which he lives. He was ap
pointed postmaster, April, 1869, and has held the office continuously
ever since .
He has been president of the Sturgeon bank , but is not
connected with that business at present. He built the building now
occupied by the Sturgeon bank . He is a member of the order of A.
0. U. W. He and his wife are both members of the Missionary Bap
tist church . In politics Mr. Harris is a stalwart Republican .
A. J. HAWKINS.
A. J. Hawkins is the son of John and Rebecca ( Skinner ) Hawkins ,

and was born in Madison county , Kentucky, July 14 , 1828. His
father cime to Boone county in 1829 and settled on Thrall's Prairie ,
near the Model Farm . The subject of this sketch was brought up on
the farm and has followed that occupation principally all his life . He
has also worked considerably at the blacksmith's trade, and has
taught school. Was married , November 11, 1852, to Sarah, daughter
of Joseph and Hannah ( Hicks) Fountain . They have three children :
Barsco Zelo , Laura Bell, and Ezekiel John . Barsco Zelo married
William M. Butler and Laura Bell married John C. Via . Butler is
living in Chicago ; Via in Dallas , Texas . Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins are
both members of the Baptist church . Mr. Hawkins, though possess
ing only the educational advantages offered by the common schools
of the county , is a well educated man and has been quite successful
as a teacher of common schools. He is of German and English
origin , his mother being of German descent, his father English . He
is an affable , pleasant gentleman , faithful in all the duties and respon
sibilities of life .
ELIJAH S. HAWKINS .
Elijah S. Hawkins , carpenter , was born in Howard county , Michi

gan , March 30 , 1832. He is the son of Weeden and Elizabeth (Lan
ham ) Hawkins. The family removed to Illinois in 1834 , and settled in
Adams county , near Quincy , where they remained until 1851, when
they came to Boone county , Missouri, and settled about three- fourths
-
of a mile southwest of Sturgeon . Mr. Hawkins has followed the oc

cupation of carpenter during most of his life . For a short time he
sold goods in Sturgeon with Napoleon Burks , under the firm nameof
Burks & Hawkins. Theirs was perhaps the second dry - goods estab
lishment ever started in that place . He has farmed considerably in
connection with his trade . He was first married , September 27 , 1857,
to Julia, daughter of Jesse and Mary A. Copher . Wasafterward mar
ried to Miss Sallie , daughter of Simon Engleman . They have one
child by this marriage, named Sallie. Mr. Hawkins is a member of
the United Workmen . He has, since coming to Missouri, lived con
tinuously in Boone county , except two years spent in Montana ,
mining and working at his trade.
JOHN HAZELRIGG .
John Hazelrigg is the son of Dillard and Sallie ( nee Renick ) Hazel
rigg , and was born in Clark county, Kentucky , July 17 , 1828. His
mother was the daughter of George and Mary Magdalen Renick , and
sister of Abraham Renick , one of the noted stock men of Clark county .
John Hazelrigg left Kentucky in 1856 and settled in Bath , Mason
county , Illinois . He enlisted in the 85th Illinois Infantry in 1862.
He was chief musician of his regiment. Was at the battles of Perry
ville , Murfreesboro , Chickamauga , Missionary Ridge, and in Sher
man's famous march to the sea . He was married , February 14 , 1854 ,
to Mildred , daughter of J. V. Kemper, Sr., of Montgomery county ,
Kentucky. Have one daughter, Mary Dillard . Mr. Hazelrigg is now
a member of the firm of Hazelrigg & Kemper , Sturgeon , Missouri,
dealers in drugs , groceries, etc. He belongs to the Knights of Hon
or and was formerly a member of the Odd Fellows lodge, but has not
affiliated with the order since coming to Sturgeon . He is a member
of the Christian church , and has been since he was seventeen years
old . Mrs. Hazelrigg is also a member of the same church . He has
been councilman of the city for several years , and has been city clerk
for two years . He is of Scotch and Welsh origin on his father's side
and German on the mother's side.
C. B. HULEN .
C. B. Hulen was born in Bath county , Kentucky, November 16 ,

1833. He is the son of John C. and Sallie (nee Bruton ) Hulen . Mr.
Hulen's parents were natives of Kentucky, his father of Madison , his
mother of Montgomery county . He left Kentucky when ten years of
age . They emigrated to Boone county , where the subject of this
sketch has resided ever since. He was married , August 29, 1860 , to
Mary F., daughter of J. V. and Mary Kemper. They have one child
named Vard . Mr. Hulen has been engaged for the last ten years in
huying and selling mules and horses, making Sturgeon his shipping
point . He took no part in the war, remained in Illinois until it was
over . In 1865 he moved to a farm three miles south of Sturgeon
where he has lived ever since . He and his wife are both members of
the Christian church . Mr. Hulen is a warm - hearted , whole - souled
mau , universally liked by all who know him .'
JAMES T. JACKSON .
James T. Jackson , dealer in hardware and farming implements,

Sturgeon , Missouri, was born in Madison county , Virginia , April 5th ,
1850. His father , Thomas M. Jackson , was a native of Virginia .
He came to this State in 1832. He was a tinner and worked at his
trade until his health failed , when he returned to Virginia , taking his
family with him . James remained in Virginia until he was nineteen
years of age , when he returned to his native State , coming direct to
Sturgeon , where he remained for a few months . He then went to
Roanoke, Howard county , where he attended school one session . Re
turning to Sturgeon , he entered the High School, taught by Col. J.J.
Searcy , remaining a student of this institution for two sessions. He
then went to work for Dr. J. S. Lockridge and J. F. Rucker, on a
brick -yard .The following winter he fed cattle for Dr. Lockridge.
The summer following he made up a herd of cattle and grazed them
on the prairie . Returning to Sturgeon he bought an interest in a
drug store and commenced business with W. H. Goin . This was in
1871. April 30th , 1872 , he was married to Miss M. F. Rucker , sister
of Major John F. Rucker and daughter of John D. and Lucy J. (nee
Linsley ) Rucker . They have two children , Lloyd R. and Annie Cor
nelia . He is a member of the Knights of Honor and A. O. U. W.
He also belongs to the M. E. Church South . He has held several
offices under the city government of Sturgeon . He commenced the hard
ware business in 1874 , and has been doing a growing business ever since .
He is one of the substantial and reliable business men of Sturgeon .
WM . KEITH , M. D., CENTRALIA .
The gentleman whose name heads this sketch is a native of Scott
county , Kentucky, horn December 20th , 1806. The Keith family
i Since the foregoing sketch hasbeen in type, Mr. Hulen died in St. Louis, of apoplexy ,
Sept. 28 , 1882.
seem to have been of Scotch origin , George Keith , great grandfather

of Dr. William , having been a native of Scotland . The Doctor's
grandfather was a native of Maryland . All the paternal ancestors
from the great -grandfather down , bearing the name of George. Lon
gevity seems to have been a characteristic of this family , as most of
the ancestors lived to be past eighty years old ,and the primary ances
tor herein mentioned is said to have reached the remarkable age of
one hundred and eleven years . Dr. R. lived with his father in his
native county till about fifteen years old , when they removed to Bul
litt county , Kentucky, where William remained till he was 22 years of
age . At the age of about 12 he was taken down with white swelling
in his right leg and confined to his bed a long time, even before he was
able to go on crutches , which he subsequently did for a considerable
length of time. At 15 years old , he put himself under treatment of
a Scotch doctor named James H. Forester , and was soon enabled to
do a little light work . At the age of 17 , being desirous to be at
some employment, and having a fair education , began teaching, his
school being mostly composed, at first , of juvenile pupils , or “ a -b -c
darians ." He succeeded so well as a teacher that his patrons retained
him several years , At intervals, however , he would between terms
go off to higher schools himself for short periods until he was about
the age of 22 years. Having a desire to see the old friends and rela
tives and his native soil, he left his father's, and made his way back .
Having a good English education he engaged in the occupation of
teaching school in various places . Finally made his stand in Mortons
ville, Woodford county , where he studied medicine with Dr. Wm . M.
Wilson , and in the year 1837–8 , at Transylvania University , completed
his preparation for the practice of inedicine. After this he began to
practice in connection with his preceptor , Dr. W., who died during
this connection , and Dr. K. remained there in the practice till 1840 ,
coming to Missouri in that year . He first practiced for three or four
years near Centralia . He was married , in 1844, to Miss Martha Jane
Lampton , and moved to Chillicothe, Missouri, where he purchased a
farm a few years later, and continued farming and practicing medicine
in Livingston county for several years . He then moved back to Chil
licothe in order that his children might enjoy the advantages of the
schools of that city . When the civil war caine on , Dr. Keith was
forced to leave home, entrusting the care of his family to his oldest
son , Clayton , then a lad of 16 years, and his mother. The Doctor
38
went to the Confederate army and served as surgeon to Gen.Wm . Y.

Slack till the latter was killed at Pea Ridge . Dr. Keith remained
with the General till he expired , and then buried him in Fullbright's
orchard , in order that there should be no difficulty in finding his
remains. Subsequently he was employed as hospital surgeon till the
fall of 1863, when he left the army, and accompanied by his family ,
who had joined hin , repaired to Arkansas. They remained in that
State from October, 1863, till April following, when they went to
Kentucky and remained till the civil troubles were over . In October ,
1865 , the whole family returned to Missouri, locating at Sturgeon , in
Boone county , where they continue to reside, Dr. K. resuming the
practice of his profession and continuing till 1875. He then turned
it over to his youngest son , J. Fabricius Keith , who had previously
been practicing in the City Hospital. He continues the practice at
Sturgeon, and is married to a Miss Turner, an amiable lady of good
family , daughter of Alexander Turner , now of Sturgeon . Clayton
Keith , the doctor's oldest son , obtained a good education and entered
the ministry , but was forced to give it up because of failing health .
He then studied medicine and having prepared himself for the prac
tice , was soon afterwards married to Miss Mary Bernard , of Louisiana,
Missouri, where he is now located and practicing his profession . Dr.
Keith has good cause to be proud of his family , having reared them
in that exemplary manner that fits them for the responsible duties of
life .
DR . JAMES F. KEITH .
Dr. James F. Keith was born in Livingston county , Missouri, Jan

uary 18 , 1849. He is the son of Dr. William and Martha J. (nee
Lampton ) Keith . The subject of this sketch left Missouri in the fall
of 1863, going first to Arkansas, thence to Tennessee and Kentucky ,
and from the latter State back to Missouri, stopping at Sturgeon , in
1865, where he has lived continuously ever since , except the few years
spent at the Medical College in St. Louis . He entered that institu
tion in 1869, graduating two years later . He was assistant surgeon
at the St. Louis hospital for six months, returning to Sturgeon in the
fall of 1871. He practiced medicine with his father until the latter's
health failed , when he turned his entire business over to his son . He
was married October 7, 1874 , to Miss Dora , daughter of Alexander J.
Turner , of Sturgeon . They have one child living , William F. Dr.
Keith was not in the army. He belongs to no church . Is a member
.la
J.s Locking .
of the Knights of Honor , and is medical examiner for the order . He

has served a number of insurance companies in the same capacity .
He has the confidence and esteem of the entire community .
CHARLES G. KING .
The subject of this sketch was born in Boone county , October 19 ,

1828. He is the son of James and Kissiah (Penic ) King,both natives
of Kentucky, but early settlers in Boone county . Mr. King was
reared on the home place about two miles west of Columbia , where
his father lived and died . In early manhood , the subject of this
sketch crossed the plains to California where he remained for two
years working in the mines . He returned home in 1852, and re
sumed his former occupation - farining. Was married , December
15 , 1853 , to Mary , daughter of David and Cynthia Shock , of Boone
county . They have nine children living ; William , May , Francis ,
David Everly , Maggie , Mattie , Walter, Dora , and Minnie . Mr. and
Mrs. King are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church .
Mr. King has lived a life of earnest, persistent toil, and by industry
and prudent management has accumulated a handsonne estate and won
the esteem and confidence of a wide circle of friends and acquaint
ances ,
DR . JAMES S. LOCKRIDGE .
The subject of this sketch was born in Randolph County , Missouri,

April 27, 1832. His father , William Lockridge, was a native of
Rockbridge county , Virginia . His mother was a native of Augusta
county , Virginia . Her maiden name was Ruth Davis. The elder
Lockridge died when his son was but sixteen or seventeen years of
age, leaving him the sole support of his mother and three sisters .
He had but little time to attend school and grew to manhood without
being scarcely able to write his name. His sisters having married ,
and his mother dying when he was about twenty -one, he commenced
his education in real earnest . He attended the St. Louis Medical
College and Jefferson College , Philadelphia , graduating from the

latter institution in 1856 , and from the St. Louis Medical College the
year following. He came to Sturgeon in the spring of 1857, where
he was married the following November to Elizabeth A., daughter of
Thomas Prather and granddaughter of Mrs. Cowan , one of the oldest
citizens of Boone county . They have one child living , R. Lee .
Have two sons dead . William died at the age of fourteen , Willard at
the age of two and a half years. Dr. Lockridge built the first brick
house ever erected in Sturgeon . He has an interest in the store

conducted under the firm name of Goin & Lockridge. He has taken
a lively interest in every enterprise calculated to promote the interests
of the town in which he lives, and has lent a helping hand to every
laudable undertaking which stood in need of such patronage . He is
also liberal in his professional charges, especially so to the poor, and
in this way has done a great deal of good of which the world knows little
or nothing at all. The doctor and his wife are both members of the
Cumberland Presbyterian Church .
F. W. MIDDLETON .
F. W. Middleton was born in Clinton county , Illinois , November

17, 1836 , and lived there until 1876 , when he removed to Sturgeon ,
Missouri. Before leaving Illinois he was engaged in the hay busi
ness . He was married , December 29 , 1855, to Miss Edna, daughter
of Lacy K. and Catherine Witcher , natives of Pennsylvania , but citi
zens of Illinois at the time of their daughter's marriage. They have
five children , whose names are Finis E., Nelson Holt , George Leon
ard , Walter , and Bertie . Mr. Middleton served in the Union army
during the late war , being a meinber of Company D , 89th Illinois
infantry , which operated in Georgia , Alabama and Tennessee . Hewas
in the battles of Perryville, Stone River , Chickamauga , Atlanta and
Nashville . He is a member of the A. O. U. W., and had belonged to
the Odd Fellows before coming to Sturgeon . There being no lodge
at that place he withdrew from the order. Mr. Middleton and C. H.
Taylor own and operate one of the Sturgeon mills . They also have a
hay press in connection with their business which is a valuable acquisi
tion to the town .
WILLIAM J. MONTRIEF .
William J. Montrief, member of the firm of Montrief & Prather,

livery , feed and sale stables, Sturgeon , Missouri, is a native of Frank
lin county , Virginia , where he was born , November 5th , 1839. He is
the son of Isaac and Francis Montrief. His father was of French
origin , his mother of Irish parentage . At the beginning of the war

he joined Company C , Tenth Virginia Cavalry , Confederate army.
In the last years of the war he served in Captain Wingfield's company.
He was in the seven days battle near Richmond, and was at Sharps
burg , Fredericksburg , Chancellorsville, Gettysburg , and the siege of
Petersburg in the fall of 1864 ; was taken prisoner and carried to
Washington City in July , 1865 , where he took the oath and was re
- --- -
leased . He had two brothers in the regiment in which he served . He

returned to his home in Franklin county , after being released from
prison , a sound man , having gone through the entire war without re
ceiving a wound. He landed in Sturgeon , Missouri, in the winter of
1868, and settled on a farm southeast of town . In 1877 , moved to
town and has been a citizen of the place ever since . He was married ,
February 14th , 1870 , to Miss Penelope ,daughter of James Hendrick .
They have five children : J. Virgil, I. Homer, William L., Lilburn
H. and Everett B. Mr. and Mrs. Montrief are both members of the
Christian church . He is also a member of the Knights of Honor .
He is at this writing mayor of the city. Hehas also held the office of
constable . Since becoming a citizen of Sturgeon , he has followed the
livery business in partnership with Mr. Prather . He is a man of ex
cellent judgment and considerable culture , having received a fair edu
cation before entering the army. He is social , kind and accommodat
ing as a neighbor and highly esteemed by all who know him . He is a
Democrat in politics, but was raised a Whig .
JOHN TAYLOR M'CAULEY .
Samuel McCauley , father of John Taylor , was a native of Ken

tucky , having been born and raised in Montgomery county of that
State . He removed to Missouri in 1819 , and settled about five miles
east of Columbia . He was first engaged as an overseor for Asa
Stone, for whom he labored until the breaking out of the Florida
war , when he enlisted under Col. Dick Gentry , and was with that
gallant officer when he received his death wound . He also served in
the Mexican war , and was in the battle of Buena Vista . He also
crossed the plains to Santa Fe several times . The subject of this
sketch was born in Boone county , October 5 , 1844. His mother's
maiden name was Cynthia A. Lewis . He was raised on the farm ,
and in early manhood went into the milling business , afterwards was
a tie and timber contractor . Was also in the livery business at Stur
geon . Served as justice of the peace for ten years. Was married ,
January 22, 1871, to Alice , daughter of John and Millie Peacher , of
Boone county . Have three children living : Walter Scott, Daisy D.,
Robert Bruce. Mr.McCauley's grandfather , on his father's side , was
a Scotcbman and a soldier of the revolutionary war under General
Washington . Mr. McCauley and wife are members of the Christian
church . He is also a Mason . He was left an orphan at an early
age, and had not only himself to educate and support , but the
care of several younger members of the family resting alone upon

his industry , fidelity and prudence.
JAMES M. M'COMAS, M. D.
Dr. James M. McComas, a prominent physician of Sturgeon , Mis

souri, was born at Newton , Kentucky, February 29 , 1844. He is the
son of C. L. and Clara McComas, the former a native of Virginia ,
the latter of Morgan county , Kentucky . His life, from early youth ,
has been an eventful one . His parents removed to the west when he
was an infant, stopping first at Burlington , Iowa, moving next to Ne
braska, where they remained for a few years, thence to Ilinois, where
they both died , their deaths being within a short period of each other .
Young McComas, being thus left an orphan , returned to bis relatives
in Kentucky, and remained a short time at Louisville and Covington ,
attending school. He next went to Philadelphia , and , at the early
age of eleven years, embarked with his uncle on a voyage to South
Anferica , where he remained for a short time. Returning from the
tropics , he spent the remainder of his youth in the States of Illinois ,
Iowa , Kentucky and Pennsylvania . Having no one to guide or coun
sel him , and being of an inquisitive temperament, and possessing,
withal, an unusual amount of vitality , he naturally acquired a wan
dering disposition , and sought wider fields of observation than the
immediate vicinity in which he was left a helpless orphan . While yet
a mere youth , he attended a course of medicine at the Missourimedi
cal college, St. Louis , in the class of 1860 and 1861. He took one
degree at the Pennsylvania medical college, Philadelphia , and two at
the medical department of Central university , Louisville, Kentucky,
where he graduated in 1875 with the degree of M. D. In 1880 , he
took the degree of M. D. at the Kentucky school ofmedicine, Louis
ville . Dr. McComas was married , September 26 , 1867, to Miss Mag
gie, daughter of John and Catherine Rochford , large landholders of
Sturgeon , Missouri. The Doctor has two children : Arthur Rochford
and Edwin Gaillard . He belongs to no church . He is a member of
the Masonic order. He is of Scotch - Irish origin . He has a large
medical library , consisting of standard works and a large collection
of recent publications by the most eminent authors of the profes
sion . Notwithstanding the vast amount of medical literature con
stantly issuing from the press, he is a liberal purchaser of all that
possess the least merit, and by this means he keeps fully abreast
with all the recent discoveries made, and reported by the most
eminent men in the profession . He believes in progress, and cher

ishes every new idea , and welcomes every new discovery calculated
to benefit the race by alleviating human suffering. In addition to
his medical library , he has a fine collection of literary works, in
cluding a full set of the American Cyclopedia . He has also a large
electric battery of recent and most approved construction , with a
fine assortment of electric attachments and appliances for use in
his practice . He has been at Sturgeon for fifteen years , and has
built up a splendid practice . He is a member of the Linton medi
cal association , also of the State association . He is a man of
broad , liberal views, and a genial, courteous , entertaiving gentle
mani . Mrs. McComas is a member of the Catholic church .
EMERSON D. M'ALLISTER
Was born in Warren , Huntingdon county , Indiana , January 31 , 1852.

He is the son ofGeorge and Rebecca McAllister . His father was born
near Zanesville , Ohio, and his mother was born and reared in the State
of Indiana. Besides Emerson , there were born four other children
William A., James Monroe , Alonzo and Lavina -- of whom William
A. only is now living , and is a leading physician in Centralia . Emer
son lived with his parents in Warren , Indiana , until he was fifteen
years old . In 1867 his father moved to Boone county and settled . on
a farm about four and a half miles southeast of Sturgeon , where Em
erson remained , performing the usual duties required of farmers ' boys
for about three years and a half. He then went to Centralia and com
menced learning the art of telegraphy under the supervision of the
night operator. Here he remained five months, when he was placed
in charge of the office at Cunningham , in Chariton county . From
here he went to Ottumwa, Iowa ; then successively to St. Peters, Mont
gomery , Martinsburg, Carrollton , St. Charles and New Florence ,Mis
souri. On account of his wife's health , he next moved to Hillsboro ,
Texas, and remained a short time; from Texas he removed to Stur
geon , where he has for several months past very efficiently discharged
the arduous duties of agent and operator. He has been engaged as
agent and operator at various points, altogether , for a period of about
twelve years. His education was acquired at the schools of Warren ,
in which he made very satisfactory progress up to the period of his
leaving ; but owing to poor health he was prevented from taking as
advanced a course as he desired , until he arrived at an age when he felt
it incumbent upon him to wage his own part in the actual battle of life .
On December 29 , 1880, he was married to Miss Ava J. Hunter , daugh

ter of S. P. and Esther (Sherman ) Hunter. Mrs. McAllister is a na
tive of Morrison , Gasconade county , this State . They have one child ,
pamed Elmer. In connection with Mrs. McAllister there is a bit of
romantic history to which a brief allusion will here bemade, and which
also concerns some of the early pioneers of Boone county. Miss Hun
ter's mother, prior to her marriage, was a Heath . She had a brother
named Robert . In 1822 Robert Heath's father emigrated from Boone
county , taking with him a colony consisting of mechanics , artisans,
etc., and settled upon a tract of land five leagues square, then within
the borders of old Mexico , but now just within the borders of New
Mexico . In consideration of establishing the colony upon it , this tract
was deeded to Mr. Heath by a physician to the emperor , to whom it
had been granted by royal authority for his great skill and learning .
The tract is known as the Brazito claim . Owing to the turbulent
times which arose , the colony was broken up , and returned to Missouri,
where , not long after , Mr. Heath died . The heirs, excepting Robert
Heath , knew nothing of their claim to this estate till a few years ago ,
when it leaked out through Robert's efforts to obtain confirmation of
the title and secure the entire property himself. The required evi
dence has been gradually collected for the past few years , and the claim
of the rightful heirs to their just proportion , it is expected , will soon
be established . Mrs. McAllister's mother's share will be one-eighth
in this large estate .
Mr. McAllister is a member of the Masonic lodge at Sturgeon , and
his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church .
DUNCAN M'DONALD .
Duncan McDonald , wagon -maker and blacksmith , Sturgeon , Mis

souri, is a native of Stormount county , Canada, but of Scotch parent
age. He is the son of Alexander and Catharine ( nee McIntosh )
McDonald . His mother was a first cousin of the Confederate general,
James McIntosh , killed at Pea Ridge. The subject of this sketch was
born and raised near the line between Franklin county , New York ,
and Canada, in the neighborhood of the Wheeler family , and knew
the vice -president very well. Mr.McDonald was born February 4 ,
1836 , and lived in his native county until he was sixteen years old .
He was brought up on the farm , but after reaching manhood learned
the trade of a wagon -maker and blacksmith . Leaving Canada, he
went first to Iowa, where he remained one year , coming from that
state direct to Sturgeon , where he has remained ever since , working

continuously at his trade. He was married in the fall of 1859 , to
Miss Elizabeth R., daughter of James R. Burks. They have six chil
dren living, and five dead . The names of the living are Samuel
Lockridge , Catharine Lee , Martha Ellen , Duncan Bruce , Ada Eveline,
and John Archibald . Mr. McDonald is a member of the Catholic
church . He has been a member of the city council, and also of the
school board . Mrs. McDonald is a member of the Methodist church .
J. W. NOE .
J. W. Noe , farmer, was born in Fayette county , Kentucky, No

vember 20 , 1811. He is the son of George and Catharine ( Smith )
Noe. His father was a native of Kentucky. Mrs. Noe was a native
of Virginia . The subject of this sketch grew to manhood in Ken
tucky. His grandfather built the first house ever erected in Fayette
county. His parents lived to a very old age. Mr. Noe was married ,
April 3 , 1833 , to Matilda S., daughter of Judge A. P. Howe, of
Nicholas county, Kentucky . They have eleven children living, three
of whom reside in California . The names of ten of the living are
James , Anion , Mary , George , Oscar, Newton, Issachar , Nattie , Boaz
and Amanda . Julia , the first-born , is dead . Oscar is a physician and
is now practicing his profession in Illinois. George graduated in law
at the University of California , and is at present conducting a large
school in that State . Mr. and Mrs. Noe are both members of the
Christian church . Most of their children are also members of that
church . Two of their sons are members of the order of United
Workmen . Mr. Noe commenced business at an early age as a clerk
in a store on the line of the Wabash and Erie canal, in Indiana . He
also contracted to build four sections of the canal, and the work
proved a financial success . This was in Green county . He also ran
a store in connection with his other business . He is of French and
English origin .
WILLIAM D. OLIVER .
William D. Oliver was born in Casey county , Kentucky, January

16 , 1836. His parents, Isaac and Mary (Downey ) Oliver , were
natives of North Carolina , who first emigrated to Kentucky , where the
subject of this sketch was born , and then , in 1838 , to Boone county ,
fissouri, settling nine miles northwest of Columbia , where the elder
Oliver died , August 16 , 1871. The subject of this sketch was edu
cated at the common schools of the neighborhood . Hewas brought up

on the farm , and has followed agricultural pursuits, the stone mason's
trade , and teaching ever since attaining his majority . Farming has
been his principal occupation . He has traveled as an adventurer and
a soldier , over most of the States of the Union . He was married ,
July 17, 1871, to a daughter or Aaron and Margaret Pierce . They
have three children , Mary Margaret, William Isaac , and James Aaron .
Mr. Oliver and his wife are both members of the Christian church .
Mr. Oliver served during the last year of the war under Gen. Sherman .
Mrs. Oliver was a widow previous to their marriage . Her first hus
band was Benjamin Berry . There were two sons by this marriage,
Walter W. and Benjamin L.
JOEL PALMER , DECEASED .
Joel Palmer , was one among the most enterprising farmers and stock
raisers of Boone county . He was born in Clark county , Kentucky , in
1811 ,but removed in early life to Bourbon county , where he remained
until his marriage, in 1831 , to Miss Milly Fretwell of that county . He
came to Missouri in 1833 . He was the son of James and Elizabeth
( Foster ) Palmer . Landed in Boone county , Missouri, with a wagon
and team and eight hundred dollars, and died worth about sixty thou
sand. He first settled about three miles south of Sturgeon , where he
lived from 1833 to 1865 . After selling his farm he moved several
times , finally settling down with his son , Lancelot , where he died
October 29, 1879. He left two children , Lancelot and Mary Susan
Stewart . His first wife having died , he was married the second time
in his old age. Lancelot Palmer was born in Boone county , three
miles south of Sturgeon , at the old Palmer homestead , May 10 , 1834.
He was raised in Boone county where he continued to reside until
1881, when he removed to Audrain , about one-half mile north of Stur
geon , where he now lives. He is largely engaged in farming and
stock raising , which he has followed all his life . Was married , June
2 , 1867, to Martha Ann Cook , a native of Boone county , daughter of
Robert and Aun Eliza Cook . The parents of Mrs. Palmer were for
merly of Kentucky. They have four living children . Letha Ann ,
Robert Lee , James and Charles. Mr. and Mrs. Palmer are not
members of any church . He belongs to no secret orders . Took no
part in the late civil war. Heowns about two thousand acres of land ,
one-half in Boone , the remainder in Audrain county.
CHARLES H. PRATHER .
Charles H. Prather , of the livery firm of Montrief & Prather, Stur

geon , Missouri, was born in Madison county , Kentucky, October 19 ,
1829. He is the son of Thomas and Polly (Cowan ) Prather . The
elder Prather was born and raised in Kentucky. Mrs. Prather was
born in Virginia . They moved to Boone county , Missouri, about the
year 1830 , and settled on a farm four miles north of Columbia , where
Mr. Prather spent the remainder of his life , dying in 1848. The sub
ject of this sketch was two years old when his parents came to Boone
county. He was reared on a farm and followed agricultural pursuits
until he engaged in the livery business two years ago. He lived in
Randolph seven years, and in Audrain twelve years, his homebeing
near Sturgeon. For the last two years Mr. Prather has been engaged
in the livery business with Montrief. Was married October 19 , 1849,
to Eliza J., daughter of Joseph Brown, of Boone county . The fol
lowing children born of this marriage, are now living : Mary Ellen ,
Joseph, John , and Ida May. The first wife having died February 23 ,
1880, Mr. Prather married Miss Said , daughter of William Barnett .
Served in Capt. Davenport's company, Confederate army, during the
last year of the war . Was in several minor engagements while en
route southward . He is a member of the Christian church , His
wife is a Methodist. Mr. Prather is a member of the Knights of

Honor, also of the Home Mutual Association . In addition to the
livery business , Mr. Prather is largely interested in the cattle trade in
partnership with his brother -in -law .
J. M. PROCTOR .
J. M. Proctor , one of the most prominent and successful business

men in his section of country , was born in Macon county , Missouri,
February 12th , 1842. He first came to Boone county in 1849, re
maining about four years , during which time he was engaged in farm
ing out in the “ white oaks.” Returning to Bloomington , Macon
county , he learned the tinner's trade. He remained at Bloomington
until 1860, when he removed to Mexico , Missouri, where he remained
during the war , except for a few weeks spent in campaigning with
Col. Porter ; was in the fight at Monroe Station , the first battle of the
war fought on Missouri soil. Hewas also at Moore's Mill and Florida .
Mr. Proctor is the son of Dr. William H. and Sophronia (nee
Maughs ) Proctor. His mother is a sister of Dr. J. M. B. Maughs ,
of St. Louis , and Mordecai Maughs, of Callaway county . He was

married January 20th , 1864 , to Miss Ella , daughter of William White ,
a Methodist minister , of Mexico . They have five children : Finnie ,
Laura Belle , Willie Patton , John Henry and Edna Clay. After his
marriage he removed to Sturgeon , where he has been actively engaged
in farming and trading ever since. He is a self-made man , having had
no advantages save those he created for himself. He went to school
in the woods, the school-house being made of unhewn tiiber , the fire
place occupying an entire end of the rude cabin . When he returned
to Bloomington, he went one term to the High School, finishing his
education while learning his trade. After working all day he usually
spent about half the night studying. He labored after working hours
to procure money to buy books. He read law for two years and was
anxious to enter upon the duties of that profession but had not the
means to do so . Mr. and Mrs. Proctor, and all their children except
one , are members of the Methodist Church South . He was a candi
date before the Democratic convention for the State Senate in 1880 ,
but was beaten by Hon . James L. Stephens, of Columbia . He is of
Scotch origin , on his father's side. His mother was of French ex
traction . He has accumulated considerable property , and is doing a
profitable business. He is one of the largest dealers in railroad ties
in the State . He is true to his convictions, fair in his dealings, and
earnest and sincere in the discharge of duty . Mr. Proctor was nomi
nated at the Democratic primaries in August, 1882, as a candidate for
representative , defeating a strong competitor , Capt . J. W. Kneisley,
in every voting precinct in the county but one.
WILLIAM PROWELL .
William Prowell, farmer and stock raiser, was born in Boone

county , Missouri, August 8th , 1847. His father Robert Prowell,
was born in Adair county , Kentucky , as may be learned from his
biography which appears elsewhere in this volume. William grew to
manhood on his father's farm . He received a fair education at the
district schools and State University and followed teaching in the pub
lic schools of this county for about five years. He was married , March
15th , 1870 , to Mary E., daughter of Eli and Nancy Lyon , of Boone
county . They have three children , all living : Lucy P., Robert E.
and Carrie L. Mr. Prowell and his wife are both members of the
Baptist church . He is also a member of the Order of United Work
men , at Sturgeon , and a notary public . He runs a blacksmith shop
in connection with his farm , also keeps a supply of staple groceries

for his farm hands. He is a well-to -do , prosperous farmer , owning
some 320 acres of good land and about 600 acres of white oak lands,
besides an interest in other real estate . He uses all available machin
ery and keeps fully abreast with the age in which he lives. Though
still a young man , he has by his individual industry and enterprise
accumulated nearly all he possesses , having received only a bare start
in the world from his own and his wife's parents .
JOSEPH B. ROBINSON .
Joseph B. Robinson, farmer and blacksmith , was born in Albemarle

county , Virginia , October 10th , 1832. His father , Tandy B., was a
native of Virginia , where he was reared to manhood and married
Elizabeth Barnes , also a native Virginian . He removed to Missouri
in the fall of 1834 , and settled first in Howard county , removing to
Boone in 1838 , where he had previously entered the farm upon which
his son , Joseph , now resides . He died January 26th , 1874 , and his
wife October 15th , 1876. The subject of this sketch has lived in
Boone county continuously ever since he was six years old , except
two years spent in Illinois , during the late civil war. He worked ten
years at his trade, but has made farming the chief occupation of his
life . Was married May 14th , 1872, to Mary L., daughter of Joseph
L. Caldwell, of Boone county , formerly of Adair county , Kentucky ,
where Mrs. Robinson was born . They have two children , Edward and
Garl. He has an excellent farm of 300 acres. He is a member of the
order of A. 0. U. W.
JOHN ROCHFORD , DECEASED .
John Rochford was born at Armagh, Ireland, May 2 , 1815. He

received a thorough collegiate education . He came to America in
early life , landing first at New York , where he received employment
in connection with the United States Navy . From New York City he
came to St. Louis in 1839 , where he labored as an architect, planning
and building some of the finest public buildings in that city . From
St. Louis he came to Columbia , Missouri, where he lived until 1849,
when he went to California , where he remained four years. While on
the Pacific coast he engaged in the lumber business, which proved a
very profitable venture. Returning to Boone county , he settled in
Sturgeon and took a contract, in partnership with Col. Ruby , for
building twenty miles of the North Missouri railroad . Mr. Rochford
invested largely in land along the line of this road . When Sturgeon
was laid off he owned most of the land included within the limits of
the town , which he was mainly instrumental in locating. He gave
the town its name, calling it Sturgeon , in honor of the first president
of the road . It is said that he donated forty acres of land as an
inducement to the railroad company to locate the depot at this point .
Mr. Rochford was married in Ireland to Catherine Madden . They
had four children , one son , Bernard , and three daughters. Only one
of the children , Mrs. McComas , wife of Dr. J. M.McComas , is living
in Boone county . Bedelier married a man named Sinclair , and
Louisa R. married a Mr. Cowgill.
WILLIAM G. RIDGWAY .
William G. Ridgway, farmer and wagon -maker, was born two and
a half miles west of Columbia , December 21, 1829 . His father ,
Enoch Ridgway, was a farmer and a native of Rowan County , North
Carolina, from which he emigrated to Kentucky , thence to Missouri,
arriving in Old Franklin , Howard county , about the year 1817. He
next went to New Mexico , where he remained about one year . Re
turning from New Mexico , he settled in what is facetiously called
“ Terrapin Neck , ” situated in Boone county , Missouri, and more
particularly described elsewhere. Mr. Ridgway married Ailcy
Barnes, a native of Frankfort , Kentucky. The subject of this sketch
went to Pike county in 1848 and remained there four years, during
which time he learned the wagon -maker's trade. He returned to
Boone County in 1852 and has worked at his trade, and at farming ,
ever since , devoting most of his attention to agriculture . The elder
Ridgway left his place in the river bottom on account of " milk sick
ness . He entered part of the land upon which William G. now
resides , about the year 1834 or 1835. The subject of this sketch was
married , January , 9 , 1852 , to Melissa , daughter of J. Fisher , of Pike
county , Missouri. They have nine children living. There names
are Nora , George W., James M., Martha Savannah, Eupha, William
Edmund , Sophia , Bertha and Ora Glenn. Mrs. Ridgway is a mem
ber of the Christian church .
MAJ . JOHN F. RUCKER .
Maj. John F. Rucker , one of the most prominent and influential

business men of Sturgeon , was born in Amherst county , Virginia ,
September 19th , 1838. He is the son of John D. and Lucy J.
-
(nee Tinsley ) Rucker. Maj. Rucker came to Sturgeon in 1858 , where

he remained until the war. He joined Company C. which was raised
in that place . He was afterwards made a lieutenant in a St. Louis
regiment commanded by Col. Kelly . He entered the service in
1861, at Jefferson City . He was at Boonville and Lexington , went
South with the army and participated in the battles of Carthage and
Wilson Creek . He was also in the battle of Drywood, and a num
ber of other skirmishes and battles of less note . Came home after
the surrender of Lexington , and was captured by the enemy and im
prisoned at Macon City. He was released on parole, but was soon
afterwards re-arrested on a charge of treason and conspiracy , having
been indicted by the United States Court . Hewas taken to St. Louis
and put in jail. Giving bail he was released from prison . He at
tended several terms of the United States Court but his case was not
called up
A compromise was at last agreed upon by which Maj.
Rucker , was banished to Montana during the war . While in Mon
tana he was elected chief clerk of the legislature and also a member
of the territorial constitutional convention . At the close of the war
Maj. Rucker returned to Virginia , and after a short stay in the Old
Dominion , he returned to Sturgeon , where he has lived ever since .
He was married , August 28th , 1867, to Miss Julia , daughter of Col.
William Early Rucker , of Audrain County , Missouri. Four sons were
born of this marriage . Their names are Booker H., Guy Lockridge,
Early D., and Ray . The first wife dying ; March 30th , 1879 , he was
married , May 18th , 1880, to Miss Frankie D., daughter of Carter
Dingle, of Mexico , Audrain county , Missouri. Maj. and Mrs.
Rucker are both members of the Methodist Church South . He has
been superintendent of the Sunday school for fourteen years . Has
always been a Democrat in politics . Has held the office of chairman
of the Congressional Central Committee for five or six years past .
In 1875 he was elected to the convention to form a new State consti
tution representing the Ninth Senatorial District . It was a free race
and there were a number of candidates, including Col. Switzler , who
was also elected . The Major is, practically speaking, a self-made
man . He is a public-spirited citizen in the truest sense of the term ,
and has been an earnest laborer in the cause of immigration . He
suggested the main points in the immigration bill. He is a director
of the Sturgeon bank and has been for several years . He and Mr.
Sherwood W. Turner own a controlling interest in the business .
He is the leading man in the firm of Rucker & Turner , a store that
is doing a large business. They also have an extensive trade in rail

road ties .
RODERIC D. RUCKER .
Roderic D. Rucker , chief salesman with Goin & Lockridge , Stur

geon , Missouri, was born in Amherst county , Virginia , May 7th ,
1849. He is the son of John Dabney and Lucy Rucker . Since com
ing to Missouri, in 1868 , Mr. Rucker has lived continuously in Boone
and Audrain counties , spending the first two years on a farm about
one mile west of town , on what is known as the old Marney place .
He entered the store of Goin & Lockridge in the spring of 1882. He
was married December 22d , 1874 , to Miss Lulu , daughter of Judge
Henry Dusenbury . They have three children , Edward Leslie,
Francis Marion and Robert Milton . Mrs. Rucker is a member of the
Methodist church . Mr. Rucker belongs to the order of A. 0. U. W.
He owns and cultivates a nice farm over the line, in Audrain county ,
where he resides. The farm is three miles north of Sturgeon Mr.
Rucker is a quiet , affable gentleman , well known and highly appre
ciated in business circles. He is a brother to Maj. John Rucker, of
Sturgeon .
ALFRED SIMS.
Alfred Sims, farmer and miller , was born in Madison county , Ken
tucky , February 4 , 1832. He is the son of Abram and Gracie ( Ro
bards) Sims, natives of Kentucky, who came to Boone county , Mis
He was
souri, when the subject of this sketch was but two years old .
raised on a farm and has followed farming ever since he was old
enough to work , except seven or eight years spent in a saw mill. He
owns a farm of 260 acres . Was married , March 16 , 1855 , to Miss
Nancy Jane, daughter of J. W.and Polly Barnes. They have six
children , named as follows : Abram L., Nancy Elizabeth , John Davis
Beauregard , James Anderson , Sidney Daniels , and Polly Thomas.
Mr. Sims has been a hard -working man and has accumulated all
his property by his own individual exertions, having inherited nothing
but a horse and saddle from his father . Hehas spent his life in Bour
bon township , and is well and favorably known in that section .
THOMAS G. SIMS.
Thomas G. Siins was born near New Castle , Henry county , Ken
tucky, July 20 , 1823. He is the son of Thomas A. and Elizabeth
(Morris ) Sims, natives of Virginia . The subjectof this sketch came
to Boone county in 1836 , and has resided here ever since . He has
-
devoted his timeto farming and bricklaying. Was married , Decem

ber 17 , 1853, to Miss Margaret A., daughter of James M. Hicks.
They have eight children living , and one dead. Their names are
Thomas A., Jeannette D., James M., Lizzie J., Lenora , Walter B.,
Flora T., Elmer T., and Betta . The last named is dead . Mr. Sims
is a member of the Masonic order , also a member of the orders of
United Workmen and Knights of Honor. He is an officer in the two
first named lodges. Was imprisoned by the Union authorities during
the war on account of his Southern politics . Mr. Sims is a self-edu
cated man , having never attended school but three months in his life .
He is an
He was appointed a justice of the peace during the war.
excellent workman . He superintended the erection of Hardin Col
lege and the opera house at Mexico , Missouri , and assisted in building
the addition to the Christian College, Columbia . He is a good
natured , jovial man , and is universally esteemed by all who know
him . Mrs. Sims is a member of the Christian church .
WILLIAM ENOCH SMITH .
The subject of this sketch is the son of Benjamin F. and Polly A.

(nee Wilson ) Smith , and was born in Bourbon county , Kentucky ,
September 6th , 1835. He lived in Kentucky until he was twenty -two
years old , when he removed to Boone county , Missouri, in 1857. He
landed at Providence on the Missouri river, April 16th , and remained -
in that vicinity for two years, when he moved north of Columbia , near
Middleton , ten miles south of Sturgeon, where he remained for eight
years. Leaving that neighborhood , he removed to a place six miles
northwest of Columbia , where he remained for thirteen or fourteen
years . His nextmove was to Sturgeon . His occupation , up to this
time, had been farming , shipping of stock and trading. Coming to
Sturgeon , be bought the Commercial hotel, opening house October
15th , 1880. Mr. Smith was educated in Kentucky , partly at common
schools and partly by private tutors . He took no part in the war.
He was never married . Is a member of the Christian church , but
belongs to none of the lodges. He never held an office and has no
political aspirations whatever . His paternal grandfather was a native
of Virginia , but one among the first to emigrate to Kentucky. He
was à surveyor . He settled where Mt. Sterling now stands, but
before there was a white settler within sixty miles of his place. At
one time he donated one hundred acres of land to a preacher as an
inducement to the minister to settle in his locality and preach for the
39
settlement. He had previously located one thousand acres for himself ,

for in those days, according to a special law of Virginia , the surveyor
was “ monarch of all he surveyed ” — almost. Kentucky was then a
portion of the Old Dominion , and to induce surveyors to go to the
wilderness and run off the lands , large grants were allowed them , with
the privilege of locating their lands wherever they liked best. This
law induced a large number of young men to learn surveying, and a
practical knowledge of the art enabled many of them to lay the foun
dation of a princely fortune in the wilds of Kentucky.
CHARLES HENRY TAYLOR .
Charles Henry Taylor was born in Maryland , August 4th , 1850 .

He is the son of Levi and Adeliza (nee Bell ) Taylor. He left his
native State when he was twenty years of age, coming to St. Charles ,
Missouri, where he remained one year , removing from there to Stur
geon, where he has remained ever since. He was depot agent and
telegraph operator for ten years. In the fall of 1878 was married to
Miss Kate, daughter of Christian Miller , of Audrain county . They
have one child , Lloyd Stanley . Mrs. Taylor is a member of the
Christian church . Mr. Taylor belongs to the order of A. O. U. W ..
He is a member of the city council. Has a half- interest in the prop
erty known as the Middleton & Taylor mill. A large lot of new
machinery has lately been added to this mill, and the property greatly
improved throughout . The estimated value of the mill, in its present
improved condition , is $6,000 . Mr. Taylor is a very clever , obliging
young man , and stands very high in business and social circles .
F. M. TRUBY .
F.M. Truhy , machinist and miller , was born in Armstrong county ,

Pennsylvania , April 27th , 1829. He is the son of Jacob and Catherine
(nee Mechling) Truby . He lived in Pennsylvania until he came to
Missouri, sometime about the year 1874. He first settled in Middle
Grove, Monroe county , where he lived four years . He came to Stur
geon in 1879. He has a good education , having received special in
structions in his line of business . He is a practical machinist , and has
applied his knowledge and skill principally to milling purposes. He
is proprietor of the Sturgeon Mills. Mr. Truby was married in 1852,
to Rebecca Cooper , daughter of Ustacy and Mary Ann Cooper, of
Waynesville, Ohio . They have ten living children . Their names.
are Katie , Celesta , Ustacy , Romeo , William , Annie , Osa , Lillie ,

Wilber and Franklin . Their fourth child , Isbin , is dead .
B. F. TUCKER .
B. F. Tucker was born in Boone county , Missouri, September 23d ,

1834. He is the son of W. W. Tucker, a native of Virginia . His
mother was a native of Kentucky. Her maiden name was Woodruff .
W.W.Tucker is the father of sixteen children , all of whom are living.
They are all the children of one mother . B. F. Tucker grew up to
manhood on his father's farın , in Rocky Fork township , removing to
Bourbon when twenty - one years of age, where he has continuously
resided ever since. He was educated at the common schools of the
county . His father was a farmer , and the son was brought up in that
line of business , and has followed agricultural pursuits all his life .
He was married December 12th , 1855, to Miss Jeannette H., daughter
of Joseph and Hannah Fountain , of Bourbon township . They had
two children by this marriage, William Warren and Joseph D.
The first wife dying , Mr. Tucker was again married , June 12th ,
1873, to Lucinda E., daughter of James and Tabitha Davenport,
natives of Kentucky. Mr. and Mrs. Tucker are both members of
the Christian church . He took no part in the war. His farm is
pleasantly situated and quite productive . By industry , prudence

and economy, Mr. Tucker has accumulated considerable property ,
nearly all of which is the result of his own individual labor.
A. J. TURNER .
A. J. Turner was born in Warren county , Kentucky, September

2 , 1831. He is the son of Andrew and Mary (nee Harris ) Turner.
He came to Missouri when seven years old . He was raised in Saling
township , Audrain county , three miles north of Sturgeon . When
eighteen years old he went overland to California . He did not re
main in the mines but a few months, returning by way of Panama.
He was four months at sea and suffered severely from sea -sickness .
Hewas married July 8 , 1852, to Miss Catherine, daughter of Jesse
and Georgia Vance, natives of Kentucky . They have four children .
Their names are P. H., Dora , Mary , and Katie . Dora is the wife of
Dr. J. Keith , of Sturgeon . Mr. Turner improved and sold several
farms in Audrain county previous to coming to Sturgeon in 1870 .
Since removing to town , he has followed no particular occupation .
He came to Sturgeon for the purpose of educating his children . He
is an earnest advocate of popular education . He says the only time

he was ever beaten for an office was when he offered for school direc
tor . It was when the law required but one director, and he was
known to be in favor of an increased levy for school purposes. He
has been a member of the city council for about ten years . Mr. and
Mrs. Turner are both members of the Christian church . He is also a
Mason . Mr. Turner is a kind -hearted , quiet , genialman . He is in
comfortable circumstances and takes the world very easy .
SHERROD W. TURNER .
Sherrod W. Turner , cashier of the Sturgeon bank , and member of

the firm of Rucker & Turner, was born and reared in Buone county ,
Missouri. He is the son of John and Virenda H. ( Tucker ) Turner .
His early education was limited . He attended the common schools
of the county , and afterwards went to the State University , at Colum
bia ,Mo. He taught in the public schools for about five years , his first
attempt at teaching being in the capacity of assistant in the Sturgeon
high school. He went to the Mound City Commercial College, St.
Louis, where he took a thorough course , including commercial law .
He graduated from this institution in 1869. In 1870 he went to
Texas and was engaged in a dry goods house as book -keeper for one
year . Returned to Sturgeon in 1871, and was employed as book
keeper and salesman by Maj. G. F. Rucker until 1876 , when he be
came a partner in the firm . December , 1879 , he became cashier of the
Sturgeon bank . He was married , November 12 , 1871 , to Miss Katie,
daughter of Nathaniel Roberts , of Boone county . They have no
children . Mr. and Mrs. Turner are both members of the Christian
church . He is a Knight Templar and a member of the Order of A.
0. U. W. and Knights of Honor. Mr. Turner is a live business man ,
and has been very successful in all his undertakings .
W. I. WEBSTER .
W. I. Webster , compositor in the Leader office , Sturgeon , Mis

souri, was born in Randolph county , May 13 , 1857. He is the son
of W. P. and Elizabeth (Coulter ) Webster. He was born and reared
on the farm , and remained on the homestead until he was eighteen
years old , when he removed to Macon county , Missouri, and from
there to Sturgeon, where he entered the Leader office as a compositor .
Has worked at the trade about eight years. He was married , Feb
ruary 12 , 1882, to Maggie, daughter of William J. McLoney . Mr.
Po
Webster is a good workman and a competent newspaper man . He

contemplates starting a paper of his own in the near future .
WILLIAM H. WELCH .
David B. Welch , father of the subject of this sketch , was born

near Harper's Ferry , Virginia . He cameto Monroe county , Missouri,
where he was married , afterwards removing to Boone county about
the year 1835. He settled at Old Petersburg , where he was em
ployed for several years as a teacher . Was also a shoemaker . He
lived at Petersburg about seven years . The subject of this sketch
was born in Boone county , October 1 , 1840. His mother's maiden
name was Kituria Brink . Mr. Welch has been a citizen of Boone all
his life, except while absent in the Confederate army and in Califor
nia . He has been engaged in the mercantile business for abont
eighteen years. He spent four years in California .
August 19 , 1869, to Laura , daughter of H. H. Jamison , of Pettis
county, Missouri. They have four children living and four dead .
The living are Scott, Annie , Daniel W., and Serepta Evellen . Mr.
Welch enlisted in the Confederate army under Capt. Ab. Hicks, of
Clark's Division . 'Hewas in the battles of Boonville, Lone Jack , Car
thage , Wilson's Creek , Drywood , Lexington and Pea Ridge . He also
participated in the fatal assault upon Helena, Arkansas, and was in
Price's raid in 1864. Mr.Welch is a member of the city council , also
of the Sturgeon Masonic lodge . He is of Irish and German origin .

Was left an orphan at the age of seven , and from early boyhood sup
ported and educated himself . He has also built up a good business
by his own individual , unaided exertions.
JAMES T. WHITE .
James T. White , farmer , is the son of William C. White , who was

born in 1812 , and came to Missouri about the year 1822 and settled
in Howard county, where he remained one year, finally removing to
Boone county and settling on a farm near where James T. White now
lives The subject of this sketch was born in Boone county , March
29th , 1838. His mother , Luvicy Lawrence , was a native of Ken

tucky Mr. White was reared on the farm , and has always followed
.
the occupation of a farmer. Was a soldier in the Confederate army,
being first a member
member of Capt . John Bole's company, afterwards with
Wat Stone. Was at Prairie Grove, Milliken's Bend , Gaines' Landing,
and a number of smaller engagements. He served three years . He
and his brother - in -law have in partnership three hundred and seventy
six acres of land and devote their attention to farming and stock
raising. When Mr. White returned home from the war fifty dollars
comprised all that he possessed in the world . He now owns, in addi
tion to his Boone county property , a stock farm in Vernon county ,
Missouri, which he manages in connection with his lands in Boone
county .
SAMUEL NEWTON WOODS .
Samuel Newton Woods was born in Boone county , February 26th ,

1844. He is the son of Barnabas S. and Martha C. ( Copher ) Woods.
Was raised on the farın upon which he now resides, and which has
always been his home except while absent in the army, or while cross
ing the plains. Was absent in the army eighteen months , and in
crossing the plains fifteen months. Was sworn into the Confederate
service by Col. Poindexter , and served under Col. Dorsey . Was in
several engagements in Northern Arkansas. Was only seventeen
years old when he joined the army. Mr. Woods was married, Feb
ruary 8th , 1870, to Caroline Boyd, daughter of William and Elizabeth
(Seymour ) Boyd . They have five children , Patrick Seymour , Wil
ford Watson , Lafayette Gomer, Ober Kyle and Samuel Boyd . Mr.
and Mrs. Woods are members of the Baptist church .
CHAPTER XVI.
CEDAR TOWNSHIP .
Position and Description - Organization — Remarkable Natural Features — Caves, Mounds,

etc. — Rockbridge Mills – Minerals, " Gold ! Gold ! ” – Early Settlers and Settlements —
Incidents, Peter Ellis and the Indians, Joker Jones — Tragedies of the Civil War — Kill
ing of James Harrington and others – Skirmish at Stonesport - Miscellaneous Matters
of Interest - Country Churches — The Town of Ashland - Its General History - Stock
Sales — The “ Bugle " — Riot - Secret Orders — Churches - The Town of Providence –
Nashville — Stonesport - Biographies of Old Settlers and Prominent Citizens of Cedar
Township.
POSITION AND DESCRIPTION ORGANIZATION .
Cedar , which is by far the largest municipal township in the county ,

embraces all that portion of the county lying south of Columbia
township and east of the Roche Perche. Its northern boundary is
-
the same as the line north of congressional township 47, while it is

bounded on the east by Cedar creek (the Callaway county line ) as far
down as the southeastern corner of section 12, of congressionaltown
ship 45 , range 12 , from which point south to the Missouri river the
boundary is the range line on the east of said congressional township .
The Missouri river forms the southern and southwestern boundary ,
flowing in an almost regular outward curve from the mouth of the
Roche Perche to the Callaway line. Cedar may be properly said to
embrace almost a little kingdom within itself,with the capital at Ash
land , so great is its area and so independent the character of its citi
zens. The township as now bounded is the same original township
established by order of the county court at the May session of 1821.
The record as quoted from Book A. of the first county court , gives
the following : “ The court then proceeded to lay off the county into
townships , and to establish the following as the several and respective
boundaries thereof, viz . : 1st Township , beginning at the mouth of
the Perche creek , thence up to where it crosses township line between
township 47 and 48, thence east with the township line to the eastern
boundary of the county , thence southward with the said boundary
line to the Missouri river , thence up said river to the place of begin
ning, which said township is denominated Cedar township . ” The
court held its session at Smithton , and was presided over by Peter
Wright, Lazarus Wilcox and Anderson Woods as justices. The same
court at the same session established four other townships , and
appointed constables for each , Thomas S. Tuttle being appointed the
first constable of Cedar township .
Cedar contains two entire , and six fractional congressional town
ships, and has about 182 whole sections and 40 fractional sections of
land. · Estimating the 40 fractional sections at an average of 20
whole ones , gives 202 square miles of 640 acres each . This gives an
entire area of about 129,280 acres .
TOPOGRAPHY , NATURAL FEATURES , ETC.
Along the eastern side of Cedar township , the Two-mile Prairie

extends for some distance , entering it from the north and running
parallel with Cedar creek iind extending down nearly opposite Ashland
on the east . Most of the country around Ashland is rolling, with
sufficient drainage to carry off all surplus water . Farther to the east
along Cedar creek , the country is rough and broken , and in some
places affords magnificent scenery . At Duly's mill , on Cedar creek ,
where the stream makes a great bend of a mile or more, and returns
within about 50 feet of itself, a tunnel was cut through the solid lime
stone to the same stream opposite, giving a fall of about fifteen feet
and saving the building of a dam . Little Bonne Femme creek rises
in the southern part of Columbia township and flows southwest and
thence southeast in a kind of curve through the western part of Cedar
into the Missouri river . The face of the country along this stream is
rough in the vicinity of Rockbridge mills . West of this are Perche
creek and Missouririver bottoms. Of course , the bluff districts along
the Missouri are rough and broken as they are everywhere on that
great stream . The finest farming country is in the central and
northern portions, and the Two -mile Prairie .
REMARKABLE NATURAL FEATURES - THE CAVE AND NATURAL BRIDGE

AT ROCKBRIDGE MILLS .
This natural feature is located a quarter of a mile east of the natural

bridge, on the farm of Mr. D. M. Emmitt. The entire country in
that locality is honeycombed with “ sink -holes," and the cave whose
opening fronts east, is entered by going down into one of these sink
holes. The entrance is large enough for aman to ride in on horseback ,
though there is no evidence that anyone ever accomplished that feat .

The opening is about ten feet high by fifteen feet wide, and though it
has been explored to some distance , no terminus has ever been discov
ered . Inside is a stream called Cave creek , that flows wholly under
ground from northeast to southwest . A distance of some 200 yards
can be penetrated on terra firma, when it then becomes necessary to
proceed in a boat , the stream in some places being ten or fifteen feet
deep . It has its stalagmites and its stalactites , its compartments ,
rooms and passages, all that goes to constitute a cave of real inter
est. The largest apartment known is about 200 yards from the
mouth , and is entered by a passage some fifteen feet high, which
opens out into a room about twenty - five feet high by 150x75 feet in
length and width . One gentleman , who explored it to the distance of
nearly a mile , pronounces the passage irregular, but not difficult.
Other parties claim to have gone in far enough to exhaust four miles
of guide string without finding any terminus .
BASS'S CAVE .
This cave is also on Little Bonne Femme, four miles from Ashland ,
on the land of the old Bass estate . It opens about ten feet above the
- -
- --
creek bed , and the mouth is large enough for a man to walk in erect ,
being nine feet high by five feet wide. It penetrates the bluff from
where it opens on the west , running back east to a distance of about
300 yards. It has several compartments, the largest of which is the
main cavern , dimensions about 15x25x80 feet in height , width and
length . It terminates in a small room at the eastern extremity , and
has running through it, from a spring in the interior , a stream of very
cold water which flows from the opening into the creek below . This
place is quite famous as a neighborhood picnic resort .
QUILLAN'S CAVE .
On the farm of J. B. Quillan there is a peculiar cave utilized by

him is a cellar . The location of the cave is near Mr. Quillan's resi
dence . It is reached by descending a stairway about 100 feet in
length . The floor of the cave is perhaps forty feet from the surface .
When the temperature outside is 100 degrees it is only 50 degrees in
the interior of the cave . Mr. Quillan makes considerable quantities
of butter and stores his milk in the cool receptacle so nicely provided
by nature.
CAVE ON LICK CREEK .
There is also a cave on Lick creek , in the southeast quarter of sec

tion 18 , township 46 , rauge 11, which is somewhat peculiar. The
aperture is cylindrical in form , is about five feet in diameter , and has
the appearance of a hole bored with a huge auger. At the entrance
the whole surface of the walls is of solid rock , but further inward
the floor is of gravel. It has never been fully explored . Its
depth or extent is unknown . Foxes have been chased into this
cave , pursued by dogs, and after a considerable time the dogs would
reappear , but without their game.
MISCELLANEOUS .
On the southwest quarter of section 16 , township 45, range 12 ,

there lies a huge boulder . It is about 125 feet in length , 12 feet high ,
and its greatest width is about 30 feet . It is supposed to have fallen
from the bluff or ledge near by, and has lain in its present position
for many years.
In February , 1882, Mr. Benjamin Wren found a petrifaction very
much resembling a buffalo horn , sawed off at the base. The interior
presents a flinty appearance , while the outside resembles limestone.
Specimens of fossil corals, resembling honeycomb, mistaken by many
for petrified wasp nests or honeycomb , and so called , have been picked
up in different parts of the township .
Along the Missouri river are scattered many mounds of the sepul
chral class , built by the Mound Builders centuries ago . One of these
mounds was opened some years since , and in the interior were found
fragments of human bones, charred wood , ashes, and a fine pottery
pipe, the latter well and handsomely made, and in a perfect state of pre
servation . The archæology of this township is well worth study and in
vestigation , although to this date not much attention has been given to it .
In digging a well near Stonesport, about the year 1860 , when the
workmen had reached a depth of some twenty -two feet some pieces of
ribs belonging to a prehistoric animal, resembling a mastodon , were
found . They were about 24 inches in length by about three in width .
ROCKBRIDGE MILLS .
The Rockbridge mills , situated on section 7, township 47, range 12 ,

six miles straight south of Columbia , take the name from a natural
bridge spanning the Little Bonne Femme creek at the place where the
mills are located . The creek sinks into the ground on the farm of
Alexander Bradford , about three miles above the bridge , and emerges
from a cave about fifty feet above the mill. Here it passes under the
natural bridge of rock about 100 feet wide . , It is seventy feet from
the ground to the top of the bridge , thị arch of which is fifteen feet
high and forty feet wide. In 1876 , Mr. Emmitt , the present owner ,
built a stone wall across the side of the rock farthest from the mill .
The mill was built by S. Tuttle , in 1822 , and was among the first in the
county . Tuttle had associated with him other gentlemen . It was
built of logs, and the next year broke down and was washed away. It
was rebuilt by Keyser & Co., partly of logs and partly framed , and
stood thus till sold to James McConathy, in 1840. He made addi
tions to it , and changed the power from water to steam , and added
a distillery. About the close of the war it passed into the hands of
Mr. James Emmitt, of Ohio , who still owns the property , which is
occupied by his son , David M. Emmitt.
CHIMNEY ROCK .
A short distance above the residence of Mr. Allen Burnett stands a

column of stone known in the locality as the “ chimney rock .” It is
about forty feet in height , is nearly cylindrical in form , with a di
anieter of about ten feet . It is composed of what seem to be a
-
number of small stones cemented together , but it is really one
rock , the small stones being air -slacked fragments thereof. The col
umn stands almost perpendicular, and on the whole is well worth
seeing.
Miscellaneous. On the farm of Mr. Murphy ( s . w . 1-45–13 ) , there
is a very large cottonwood tree, measuring at the base 39 feet and four
inches in circumference .
On the farm of Mr. Crenshaw ( s. w . 17–45–12) , there are two large
sized elm trees , whose bases are near together, and one of which , at
an angle of 45 °, enters the other at a height of about ten feet from
the ground, and thus the two form one trunk . The bases are about
twelve feet apart .
On the same farm there is a large circular sink hole , some thirty or
forty yards in diameter and ten or twelve feet deep . There is another
sink -hole of a similar dimension on the farm of S. B. Bryant, ad
joining
Not far north of Wilton the Missouri river has recently made
break into the Bonne Femme creek . There are really two of these
breaks, which are some distance apart. The Bonne Femme now
empties into the river, and a short distance below the river runs into
Bonne Femmeagain . Large quantities of earth have fallen into the
river lately in the neighborhood of Providence and down the river ,
and considerable injury to land has resulted .
MINERALS .
No paying mines of any kind have as yet been opened in Cedar

township . The biggest excitement of this kind is one of recent de
velopment. Mr. Robin Parker , of Colorado , who was spending the
winter of 1881–82 in Boone county , began prospecting for the precious
metals in Cedar township . He claims to have discovered both gold
and silver on the farm of W. A. Barton , near Wilton . A company
was formed , called the Boone County Gold Mining Company, which be
gan operations on Monday, May 8 , 1882. They however discovered
more lead than either of the preciousmetals, and altered their operations
accordingly , and there is a prospect of obtaining lead in paying quan
tities. They claim , however, to have found gold , and a fine quality of
dust was exhibited at Columbia , said to have come from the Cedar mine.
Mr. L. L. Lindsay is also sinking a lead shaft on his place , and the
iudications are good . No coal banks have as yet been developed , but
the indications are good on the east side of the township .
On the farm of Wm . M. Jones, that gentleman has frequently

picked up, after a heavy washing rain , a great number of pieces of
lead, which some have thought indicate that the locality was once the
site of a battle -field ; but as there is no record , or even tradition of a
battle in this section in which bullets were used , it is believed by
others that the pieces found indicate the presence of lead in consider
able quantities beneath the surface .
EARLY SETTLERS .
It is not always possible to get at the facts pertaining to earliest

settlement, especially where different parties claim the priority . As
far as can be correctly ascertained the following will give the principal
pioneer settlements : David Rice came from Kentucky to Boone
county in 1818 , and settled on Bonne Femme creek , six miles north
west of where Ashland now stands. He moved over on the river in
1835 , where he has since resided . Tyre Martin and the Nichols
brothers also came at an early day and settled mostly in Cedar town
ship . Martin drove the first covered wagon that crossed thể river at
St. Charles. John Nichols had twenty -two children , and thus became
the progenitor of a pumerous stock , all of whom are said to be pro
lific . Earlier still, in 1817, it is claimed that Ira P. Nash , James
Adams, Samuel Buckalew , William Ramsey , Hiram Bryant, Thomas
Brooks and John Herald came to Boone county and settled in several
neighborhoods in Cedar township . Two years later Daniel Hubbard
and G. B. Sappington settled in Cedar , all of whom were there prior
to the admission of the State and , of course, before Cedar was laid
off into a township .
Peter Ellis came in 1818 , and brought the second , if not indeed the
first, keel- boat that came up the Missouri. After the Ellises, came
the Basses , and these in turn were followed by others from the grand
old States of Virginia and Kentucky, till soon after Missouri's admis
sion into the Union Cedar township had a population of considerable
numbers .
In the general history department of this volume, Col. Switzler has
handled the pioneer history so completely that further mention of first
comers is here unnecessary .
Rev. Dr. David Doyle was also a pioneer , and was the first resident
physician who practiced in Cedar township . [See biography. ] It is
uncertain whether he or Berryman Wren preached the first sermon , as
they were cotemporaneous, and the honor is claimed for each . Those
--
HISTORY OF BOONE COUTNY . 621
wbo claim the priority in ministerial labors for Rev. Wren , locate the
first service at Goshen , while by others it is held that Dr. Doyle's
service, held at the house of Anderson Woods, was the first, the dates
in each case being indefinite. But, however that may be, they were
both worthy men , and all honor is due them for their God -fearing,
man -loving zeal.
Rev. Berryman Wren was born in Rutherford county , N. C., in
1796. He came to Boone county in 1819, and was licensed to preach
in 1821 . He was noted as a very earnest and zealous minister of the
gospel, and “ died in the harness ” September 19th , 1867, after a brief
illness . His wife , Tabitha, is still living, at the age of 87 .
James Beazley came from Virginia to Boone county in 1828 , and
settled ou section 30 , township 48, range 13 , where he lived till his
death , in 1854. Henry Jefferson , the father-in -law of Beazley , was
also a Virginian , and came to Boone in 1827. He located on the
southeast quarter of section 16 , township 47, range 13. Louis Hume
came from Madison county , Ky. , in 1823, and settled on the northeast
quarter of section 5 , township 47, range 13 .
Near Claysville were Robert P. Carter , who came from Virginia
originally , and from Kentucky to Missouri directly , in the year 1829,
and settled where the town of Claysville now stands . Capt. Wm .
Ramsey made his advent into the county in about 1825 , locating a
mile and a quarter west of Claysville. The captain was probably
never commissioned to his office , but won his spurs, as it were, by be
ing a great and successful Indian fighter . Job Murray , a Tennesseean ,
settled one mile east of Claysville, in 1835 or 1836. Greenberry
Blevins was an early settler , and made his claim on the Clardy farm .
The first marriages in this neighborhood , now remembered , were
those of John Marley to Maria Toombs, 1827 , and Mark Sappington
to Euphy Ramsey , in 1828. As early as 1830 Dr. David Doyle prac
ticed his profession as a physician in the community and preached the
gospel on Sabbath days whenever convenient. It is said that when on
his way to preaching or to see a patient he would always carry a gun
with him for fear of Indians. Probably the first religious services
were conducted by Dr. Doyle , although Rev. James Suckett , an old
Baptist minister from Kentucky, preached here in 1838 and a claim is
made that Rev. Berryman Wren , who began his labors in the vineyard
in 1830 , was the first minister in the community .
The first school-house , in the southern part of the township , was
built about 1830. It stood down in the corner of the county , close to
the Callaway line, on section 25 , township 45, range 12. A man

named Hayden taught the first school the same year the house was
built . He had twenty or more scholars and was paid $ 2 per month
per scholar for his services . Mr. Hayden is reported to have died
“ up in the prairie somewhere. "
P. H.Mellon claims to have put up the first store in Claysville , in
1845 or 1846. He was probably the first postmaster. Claysville has
for a long time been a steamboat landing , and a great deal of freight
has been received and shipped from time to time. Robt. P. Carter , a
native of Culpepper county , Va ., who came to Boone in 1829 , first
settled where Claysville now is , and kept a wood- yard for a number of
years. The town was named for Henry Clay.
INCIDENTS , REMINISCENCES, ETC.
When Peter Ellis , Sr., lived in Cedar in early times, seven In

dians came to his house either on a plundering, begging or stealing
expedition , one or all being given to whichever of the above weak
nesses that circumstances most favored . “ Boys," said Mr. Ellis
to his sons , “ go to the smoke-house , corn -crib and tobacco -house ,
and don't let ' em in ." Abe went to the meat -house , and posted
himself inside . A squaw tried to force her way in , tempted by
the thought of the well-cured hams hanging within . Abe tried to
“ hold her out," but she pushed him in and entered . He pushed
her out and she fell backwards over the door-sill, which made all
the other Indians laugh . They went off without doing any damage.
Peter Ellis was a very determined old man , and had no notion of
having his “ truck ” carried off by loafing Indians. Abe would
have been rougher in keeping out the squaw , but was afraid of the
Indians , thinking every minute his father might do or say some
thing that would awaken their vengeance .
JONES THE JOKER .
Joseph G. Jones is a historic character , in the sense of being the

vo boss joker " of Boone . It is related of him that once , when a
neighbor came to his house and ground some sausage, Jones told him ,
while there , of a panther that had been prowling around, and cau
tioned him to be on his guard . After he was fully away from the
house , returning through the woods, Jones took a near cut, headed
him off in the woods, and set up a mock -panther scream that caused
the hair to rise on his scared neighbor's head , who dropped his bucket
of sausage and
and ran for
for his life ..
his life Jones took the sausage home, and , to
complete the joke, brought back the bucket, scratched up as though
the “ varmint ” had eaten up the sausage and left the bucket in the
woods.
On another occasion he caught a pony belonging to his father and
painted it up . The old gentleman thought he discovered a stray ani
mal on his place , and set the dogs on it to get rid of it . But the
pony came back , and it was not till the process of dogging was re
peated and the poor brute chased nearly to death that the delusion
was discovered .
One of Jones ' neighbors had been enterprising enough to erect a
lightning rod on his premises. Jones was not to be outdone ; so , pro
curing some paw -paw poles , he fastened them together and set them
up by his chimney.. He then went to the house of his friend who had
the " sure-enough " rod on his house , and told him he had put up one
on his place . Fearing itwas not properly adjusted , he urged theneigh
bor to go over and examine it . He consented , but when they arrived
and he saw how he was sold , it is said he came near taking satisfac
tion out of Jones' hide .
A favorite prank of the joker was to palm off on people not well
posted some buzzard eggs , and induce them to hatch them out as the
eggs of a fowl of very fine breed .
TRAGEDIES OF THE CIVIL WAR .
Killing of James Harrington . September 3 , 1864 , a company for

the Confederate service was being recruited in this township . Informa
tion of the fact was conveyed to the Federal military post at Fayette,
and Captain Rives Leonard , of the 9th Cavalry , M. S. M., was sent out
with a detachment to capture or disperse the Confederates. At Colum
bia he was joined by a detachment of Captain Carey's company of the
3d M. S. M. Making his way into the township , Captain Leonard
reached Rockbridge mills. Here some of his men broke into McCona
thy's distillery and got drunk . From the mills the command marched
to the residence of Mrs. Edwards, near Nashville church . On the
road from the mills to Mrs. Edwards' Leonard's men overtook Mr.
James Harrington , a citizen of the township , and shot and killed him .
The Federals claimed that as soon as Mr. Harrington saw them he ran
and refused to obey the command to halt ; that he was chased some
distance and fired at several times , but would not stop , and at last re
ceived the fatal bullet. Captain Leonard further represented that he
took Mr. Harrington and some others of his neighbors with whom he
was in company to be a portion of the Confederate command he was
expecting every minute to encounter , and that their conduct in pre
cipitately retreating confirmed him in his belief. The truth was, Mr.
Harrington , although a strong Southern man , was not a Confederate .
He was a very exemplary gentleman and a universally respected citi
zen . Whether killed by accident or design , his death was greatly to
be deplored . Leonard's men committed serious outrages on this raid .

They caught Mr. Wm .Grooms, who was riding along the road , and ,
taking him for a bushwhacker, as they said , hung him up to a tree ,
but he was rescued before he was seriously injured. AtMrs. Ed
wards' several citizens were attending a public sale . Of these Samuel
Olds, Benjamin F. Orear , Bradford Lanhorn, and J. S. B. Douglass
were made prisoners and cruelly maltreated , being beaten over the
head with muskets and knocked about with great brutality . The pris
oners were not carried away .
Afterward Captain Leonard came upon the Confederates and had a
short but sharp skirinish with them . Some men were wounded on
both sides, but nobody killed . The Confederates, being indifferently
armed , and generally without experience , were soon completely routed
and driven away in great confusion . After the skirmish the Federals
returned to Fayette by way of Columbia .
In 1863 a company of Federal cavalry from Jefferson City raided
the lower portion of this township . They were commanded by an
officer remembered as Capt. White . This company visited the resi
dence of Wm . T. Nevin , a returned Confederate soldier, near Bur
lington . Nevin was taken out and shot , his house burned , and many
articles of his personal property carried away. His father was made
prisoner , as was Mr. John Sappington . Other citizens of the neigh
borhood were also arrested . The Federals claimed that Nevin was a
notorious bushwhacker , and that his house was a rendezvous for bush
whackers , guerillas, thieves, and robbers.
In 1863, near the northeast corner of the township , in Callaway
county, but near the Boone line , and near the Columbia line also , John
Trigg was shot by some of the Ninth M. S. M. He was in a camp of
Confederates that were routed that morning by the militia , who were
led by Gen. Guitar . The skirmish is noted elsewhere.
In the year 1864 , John C.McCall, a Confederate , was shot by Ste
phen O'Connor , at a point about four miles south of Ashland.
In the fall of 1864, Ellington Ford , said to have been a peaceful cit
izen and a reputable man , was shot by a soldier belonging to Capt .

Carey's company of Federals. The killing was done by the roadside,
and , so far as known, was wholly unprovoked and unextenuated .
Other tragic episodes during the war were the shooting of Tilman
Vaughn , a Union man , by the bushwhackers, and the killing of a rob
ber who attempted to rob P. H.Mellon , Esq . The latter shot the
miscreant and killed him iustantly .
About the 1st of September , 1864 , Mr. Franklin Harris was return
ing home from Providence , when , in a secluded place on the road , he
was halted and fired on from the brush , a ball taking effect in his neck
and making a dangerous wound .
Skirmish at Stonesport, Cedar Township. — About 10 o'clock on
the night of May 22 , 1862, information was received at Claysville by
Col. Guitar , near which place he was then camped , with a detachment
of his regiment, that a party of Confederates were crossing the river
near the mouth of Bonne Femme creek . Preparations were at once
made to circumvent and capture them . Three squads, one led by
Capt . Leonard , one by Lieut. McKinsey , and a third by Col. Guitar
in person, accompanied by Lieuts . Ross and Kemper , marched by dif
ferent routes to the objective point. About daylight the Confederate
camp was surprised , and the men fled in every direction , throwing
away blankets, guns, and what elsemight impede their flight. In the
skirmish Col. Guitar and his men captured eight men and nine horses.
Among the captured was D. B. Cunningham , who was armed with a
carbine.
MISCELLANEOUS.
The first brick building in Cedar township was put up by Perry

Spencer in 1839 , on the southwest quarter of section 26 , township 46 ,
range 13. It is still standing , and is occupied by his son . A fine
stone dwelling house was put up by P. H. Mellon , Esq., about half a
mile below Claysville , some time between 1855 and 1860. It is a fine
structure, and cost several thousand dollars.
Relics.-- Mr. Whitfield ( s. e . 2–46–12 ) has in his possession a watch
which bears evidence of having been manufactured in the year 1616 .
Mrs. Tabitha Wren , widow of the pioneer preacher, Berryman Wren ,
bas a primer which she purchased in 1804, and several other interest
ing relics . Mrs. S. A. Carter ( s. e. 14–45–12 ) has a queensware pepper
box over one hundred years old . It has a hole in the bottom in which
I Believed to have been a company of the 3d M.S. M., on a hunt for horses.
40
to put the pepper, and this hole is stopped with a cork . The top is
not removable , but perforations are made therein through which the
pepper is sifted as wanted .
When Dr. Robert Martin had just returned from a medical college
with his “ sheepskin ,” a waggish farmer sent for him in great haste
to comeand set " a broken leg .” Arriving at the farmer's house , the
doctor found that the broken limb belonged to a deer -hound . Not
disconcerted , he set to work , reduced the fracture , did a good job , and
the animal was soon well again . The farmer laughed right heartily at
the young doctor for a time, but a few days thereafter Dr. Martin pre
sented and collected his bill for his services, amounting to $50. Then
the doctor laughed !
The first steamboat that came up the Missouriwith a steam whistle
attached blew its loudest , most discordant notes at a point opposite
the lower part of Cedar township . An old pioneer who heard the
fearful noise called out to his wife : “ Old woman , hurry up and wash
and dress the children — quick ! Thatwas sartinly old Gabriel, tootin '
his horn ! Git ready — git ready ! ”
About ten years ago a small dog, belonging to L. P. Jones, was ac
cidentally shut up in Mt. Pleasant church , where it remained without
food or drink for one month , lacking two days. Upon being released ,
it was fed , and soon after died .
In early days the Cedar township small boys, now old men , bearded
and gray, frequently indulged in the sport of rolling rocks from the top
ofthe bluffs down into the river . Sometimes a sharp -pointed rock would
strike it tree, and the point would be broken off in the tree . In process
of time the fragments would be overgrown , and it is said that there is
many a tree along the foot of the bluffs with a stone imbeddedin it.
Remarkable Men . – Mr. Loyd Austin , who resides on section 10 ,
township 47, range 13 , is doubtless the oldest living person born in
Cedar township . Mr. Austin is sixty -three years of age , having been
oorn in 1819. Jonathan Nichols ( n . e . 14–46–12 ) is reported as pos
sessing two peculiarities. He is an old bachelor , and is always to be
found at home, although a stout , active old man . Living less than
two miles from Ashland , he has not been to that town for twelve years ,
and he never saw a railroad in his life. Mr. Leopard , of Claysville,
exbibits wonderful skill as a wood - carver . He is a native of Boone
county , and a shoemaker by trade. Quite a number of canes made
and carved by him are to be found throughout the county . Rev. Sam
uel Ott , who came to Boone county with his father in 1826 , has been
married four times , and is the father of seventeen children . His last
marriage was in March , 1882. Mr. Ott is sixty - five years of age . As
ndicated , he is a minister of the gospel, and obeys literally the com

mand to " multiply and replenish .'
While the representative of the publishers of this volume was at his.
work of collecting historical facts for the history of this township , he
frequently stopped and consulted a township map which he carried
with him . In the neighborhood southeast of Ashland he was ob
served to have frequent recourse to his map, and was seen poring orer
it in divers odd places . A report was current that “ the man with
the map ” was none other than Frank James, the noted bandit, figur
ing and mapping out a predatory campaign ! The same representa
tive sought a second interview with S. W. Warren , to re -obtain some
information which had been lost , but, owing to certain pressing busi
ness engagements of Mr. Warren , an interview was wholly impractica
able at the time.
Dr. J. T. Rothwell, now of Ashland , claims to have been the first
merchant at Burlington . He occupied the store- room now owned and
used by J. W. Taggart .
Suicides. — Among those who deemed life a burden too grievous to
be borne , and who have disregarded the canon of the Almighty
against self-slaughter , may be mentioned Samuel Walkup , who hung
himself near Burlington , in the year 1879, and Mrs. Anna Perkins ,
wife of Michael Perkins, who threw herself into Bonne Femme creek ,
a year so after Walkup died , and was drowned . It is alleged that
slanderous reports, circulated by her neighbors against her character ,
worked upon Mrs. Perkins' feelings and so affected hermind that she
became distracted , and , while in this condition , she took her own
life .
COUNTRY CHURCHES NASHVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH .
The historian stands indebted to John M. Edwards, clerk of the

Nashville church , for the facts appearing in this outline.
The local name and denomination is the “ United Baptist Church
of Nashville ," and it is situated in section 26 , township 47, range 13.
More exact dates of this church have been secured than of most any
other. It was organized April 22d , 1834 , and the first church build
ing was erected in 1845, and was a log edifice , which answered the
congregation for a meeting -house for several years. The charter
members of this church were : James Cunningham and Susan , his wife ;
John H. and Lydia Baker ; Willis Baker ; Robert and Catherine Bar
nett ; Gilpin and Sarah Tuttle ; Stephen and Winna Jackson ; James
and Margaret Dunn ; Catherine A. Dunn ( now wife of Israel Winfrey ,
and the only surviving original member ) ; Jacob and Frances Kuy
kendall, and Maria , a negro slave of James Cunningham . In 1871,
the present house was built, a frame structure, which cost $ 1,500.
Elder H. Wright preached the first sermon , and the following have
served the church as pastors : John Grunhalds, Wm . H. Duvall , S. H.
Ford , P. H. Steinberger , John M. Black , George D. Todd ,
J. M. Robinson , J. T. M. Johnston , J. M. Robinson ( again
from '63 to '65 ) , W. J. Patrick , J. M. Robinson (again in
'67) , William Clark , Jas . C. Woody, John M. Willis, Wm .
R. Wigginton and John Palmer , the latter being the present pastor
in charge . This church has a flourishing membership of about 160
communicants . After the organization , and prior to the erection of
a church house , the members and pastors met for worship at private
houses, the neighbors being always ready and willing , and always felt
honored when “ meetin ' " was held at their house . From such a nucleus
has sprung the now prosperous and successful church of Nashville .
[ See history of defunct village of Nashville . ]
RICHLAND CHAPEL (METHODIST ) .

The exact date of organization has not been obtained , but it was
sometime in the semi-decade of 1845 to 1850 , J.H.Griffin , Rebecca
Griffin , Alex . Grindstaff and wife, Thomas Britt, Mary Britt, David
Coonrod and wife , James Beel and wife , Mrs. Elizabeth Vandiver , Mrs.
Sarah Vandiver and Sam Couts were among the original members .
The first church -house used by this congregation was a frame building
erected in 1855 , near Burlington , at a cost of between $ 400 and $ 500 .
The present building was built in Burlington ( section 2 , township
45 , range 13 ), and cost $ 1,000 . It is a framed house , but ample for
the requirements of a house of God, seating and sheltering comfortably
all who come there to worship . The present membership numbers
about 90. Among the worthy names of God-fearing men , who have
preached to this congregation and served Richland Church as pastors,
are the following : George Rich , A. P. Linn , Rev. Cope , B. F. John
son, William Penn , Joseph Dines , John Bell, William Jordan , Thomp
son Penn , Robert Jordan , Thomas De Moss , William Sartor, D. N.
Epperson , J. F. Monroe , L. A. Smith , Robert White , W. T. Elling
ton , C. W. Collett, S. L. Woody , J. F. Shores and H. D. Graves .
Many have been the “ protracted meetings held at this church , and
many " outpourings ” of the Divine Spirit have here gladdened the
hearts of old veterans in the army of the Lord .
GOSHEN (BAPTIST ) CHURCH .
This church represents a body of Old School Baptists, and is situate

on section 26 , township 46, range 13 , in themunicipal precinct of
Cedar . As nearly as has been ascertained , it was organized in about
1830 , with Berry Wren and wife , Isaac Wilcoxen and wife , Perry
Spencer and wife , Richard Fulkerson and wife , Samuel Wilcoxen and
wife , David Ott , Sr., and wife and -- Tumblestone and wife as
original members. The first church -house was built the same year of
its organization , but of what material, or at what cost , has not been
ascertained . The present structure was built in 1874–75 , and cost
about $ 1,600. Berry Wren served here as preacher in charge till his
death . He was succeeded by —— Musteen , and he by Frank Jenkins.
Martin Doty , Howard Jackson , and G.M. Thompson followed in turn
till the present . This church belongs to the Bonne Femme Associa
tion , and claims a round membership of 110 cominunicants . The
number of her members is good evidence of the fact that this, too , is
a prospervus church , and is doubtless bearing the colors of Emanuel
valiantly in this mundane struggle for celestial felicity .
BETHEL CHURCH ( MISSIONARY BAPTIST )
Is located on section 1 , township 47, range 13 , on the road

from Columbia to Providence . The organization is now about
27 years old , the date of its organization being May 9th , 1855.
The original members were J. T. M. Johnston , Minerva T.
Johnston , J. S. Johnston , Pauline Johnston , J. M. Willis, Electa
Willis , Eliza K. Johnston , Mary A. Boatright, Wm . Harrington ,
Elizabeth Harrington , Lycurgus P. Hickam , Cornelia A. Hickam ,
Thomas Rucker and 14 or 15 others . The present church -house is
the one first built and was erected in October , 1857 , at a cost of
$ 1,500 . Rev. J. M. Robinson was the minister who dedicated the
church to the service of God. The names of pastors , that have served
the church , are the following : Rev. H. H. Buckner , in 1856 ; J. T.
..
M. Johnston , 1857–8–9–60 ; J . T. Williams, 1862–3 ; J. M. Robinson ,

1864-5 ; J. T. M. Johnston , 1866–7–8 ; Nathan Ayers , 1869–70 ; J.
T. M. Johnston , 1871 ; J. S. Dingle , 1872–3 ; E. S. Dulin , 1874 ; W.
R. Wigginton , 1875–6 ; G. L. Black , 1877–8 ; J. M.McGuire, 1879–
80-1-2 . The ground on which this church stands was donated for
that purpose by the Rev. J. T. M. Johnston who served the congrega

tion there for so many years . Rev. David Doyle was chosen moder
ator in the constitution on the day on which it was adopted and estab
lished .Meetings are held every third Saturday and Sunday in each
month . At this writing the membership is thirty - six , and the church
is in good working condition .
NEW SALEM BAPTIST CHURCH .
A detailed history of this church , containing biographical mention

of many of its members and pastors , has already been written by Dr.
F.G. Sitton , and published complete in the Ashland Bugle . The
history alluded to is much fuller and more complete than can be given
space in this volume; but from the sketch kindly furnished by Dr.
Sitton , the historian condenses, and gives the following facts :
" The Baptist church of Jesus Christ , at New Salem , was organized
on the 2d Saturday in November , 1828 , at the house of Tyre Martin ,
by a Presbytery composed of Elders Greenlaugh and David Doyle .
The members had a joint letter of dismissal from Little Bonne Femme
church for that purpose . The following named persons entered into
the organization : Shadrach Wren , Mosias Jones , Isaac Bates , Robert
Nichols , Jesse Nichols , Foster Sappington , Joseph Green , Tyre Mar
tin , S. B. Sappington , Joseph Peak , Green B. Sappington , Samuel
Wilcoxen , Squire Burnam , Foster Martin , Robert Jones , Isaac Wil
coxen , Perry Spencer , Jane Bates, Elizabeth Wren , Isabel Nichols ,
Elizabeth Peak , Susan Nichols , Elizabeth Sappington , Rachel Martin ,
Nancy Sappington , Mary Burnam , Rebecca Sappington , Elizabeth
Jones , Malinda Nichols, Milly Wilcoxen , Rebecca Wilcoxen , Jane
Griggs, Mary Green , Mourning Martin , Elvira Sappington , and Mary
Wilcox ."
Dr. David Doyle was chosen first pastor in December , 1828 , and
served the church faithfully many years, assisted , after becoming old
and infirm , by Eld . M. M. Modiset. In 1852, Rev. B. B. Black was
called to the ministerial labors of this congregation and served one
year . He had been preceded by a gentleman of the same name, Rev.
John M. Black , who served the church in 1849–50 . Other pastors
who have served this church were W. H. Burnham , S. H. Ford and
Noah Flood.
The first church was finished late in 1830 , and was erected on land
obtained from Peter Bass , northeast quarter of section 3 , township
46 , range 12 , west . The original edifice was a small brick building ,
--
-
and cost $ 335.29 , besides labor and materials donated by the brethren .
Tbis was enlarged in 1848 to suit the demands for room occasioned by
the growth of the congregation in numbers . It was done by taking
down the side walls and making it wider. This answered till 1877 ,
when the present building , a large and elegant frame, was finished at
a total cost of $ 1,860.85 , and dedicated by the Rev. Pope Yeaman ,
D.D. Twenty-two members were granted a joint letter of dismissal
in September , 1858 , for the purpose of forming the Mount Pleasant
church , and in March , 1879, thirty -five were granted the same to form
the Ashland church . [ See history of those churches ] . Prior to the
war , New Salem had a number of colored members, who were always
unprofitable , and more so after emancipation . In 1866, the church
took action on the case under a series of resolutions introduced by
George Hubbard , and set them off into a separate congregation called
the African church of New Salem .
New Salem church has been called the “ mother of preachers,”
hwing sent five young preachers into the ministry and ordained three .
The aggregate membership is approximately one thousand . The
greatest attained at any one time was in 1859, when the church roll
showed a membership of 470. Since then there has been a decrease ,
by death , removal, dismissal and forming new congregations, New
Salem being the mother of churches as well as of preachers. With
this succinct outline this sketch must be closed , though material is at
hand for one much fuller did the nature of this publication permit.
LITTLE BONNE FEMME BAPTIST CHURCH
Is located in the southern part of section 3, township 47, range 12

( Cedar Township ) , and is one of the oldest churches in the State , hav
ing been organized in December, 1820, before Missouri was a State.
A detail ofthe long and useful existence of this church and all the in
cidents connected with so remarkable an institution can not be given
here ; but a more condensed sketch will have to suffice . The original
members were David Doyle , Anderson Woods, Elizabeth Woods,
James Harris , Mourning Harris, Polly Harris, Elizabeth Kennon ,
John Maupin , Elias Elston , Matthew Haley , John Tuttle , Lazarus
Wilcox , Lucy Wilcox , James Wiseman , Thomas S. and Nancy Tuttle .
The first house was , of course, a log building, and was built in 1819 ,
before there was a formal organization of the church . The present
structure , is a substantial brick house, and was erected in 1843 at a
cost of about two thousand dollars . The names of pastors that have
served the body of worshippers at Little Bonne Femme are David

Doyle , Anderson Woods, Robert S. Thomas, James Suggett , S. H.
Ford, Noab Flood , M. Modiset, T. C. Harris , J. M. Robinson , John
T. Williams, J. T. M. Johnston , G. L. Black , J. M.McGuire , N. S.
Johnston . The presentmembership is given at 80 souls , though , of
course , that number is subject to constant increase or diminution . The
church , so far as can be learned , is in fine working order and repre
sents an harmonious brotherhood , all working with an eye single to
the glory of the Master .
MOUNT PLEASANT (UNITED BAPTIST ) CHURCH
Was first organized on the first Saturday in June, 1858 , by the

Rev. P. H. Steamberger , who also became its first pastor. The
original members were Mosias Jones, Sr., Mosias Jones, Jr., Joseph
Jones , Tyre Jones , Isabelle Slate , Euphamy Sappington , and other
members , numbering twenty -three in all. They erected their church ,
which still serves as a place of meeting, in 1861. It is a frame build
ing and cost about $800 besides labor and material donated by mem
bers. There was never any formal dedication services held , but by
mutual consent was devoted , when finished , entirely to the service of
the Lord . P. H. Steamberger , James H. Tuttle , J. T. M.Johnston ,
William Clark , A. H. Wright, G. L. Black , T. B. Nunelly , and J. S.
Parmer have served the church as pastors.
BURLINGTON (BAPTIST ) CHURCH

Is located in the town of Burlington , and was organized in 1873, with
Thomas Tuttle and wife, James Roddy and wife , Mrs. Sallie Porter ,
Mrs. G. W. Coonce , and Fayette Shull. It is a frame church , and
cost between $700 and $ 800 . It was dedicated by Rev. J. S. Parmer,
Hampton Wright and William Clark having served it as pastors — the
first mentioned being the present preacher in charge. The member
ship was never very large , numbering at this writing not exceeding
fifteen . They have services the first Saturday and Sunday of each.
month .
SOME SCHOOL HOUSES.
Christian School House is situated on the southwest quarter of sec

tion 27 , township 46 , range 12. The site was donated by David Chris
tian . The first house was of logs, and was built by the citizens about
1846. The present building is a frame, and was built three or four
years ago , at a cost of $700 .
Clardy School House is located on the northwest quarter of section

12, township 45 , range 12. It is a log building , and was erected in
1869, being built by contributions from the citizens in labor and mate
rial. An average of six months of school is taught ; teacher's wages ,
$ 35 per month ; average attendance per diem , 20 .
Jones School House was built about twelve years ago by the citi
zens. School is taught half the year , the average daily attendance
being about 30.
TOWN OF ASHLAND .
This beautiful little inland city is located in one of the finest agri
cultural sections of Boone county , or even the State of Missouri, for
that matter. Its immediate situation is on the line between sections
10 and 15 , of township 46, range 12 , the forest lying on the north ,
west and south , the Two-Mile Prairie stretching up to the town limits
on the east . The country round is beautifully undulating , and no
stranger can visit Ashland without being impressed with the fact that
it would be a good place to live . The first house in the town was built
by Peter Nichols , on the lot now occupied by the residence of Mr.
Christian . D. M. and A. M. Burnam erected the first store-house in
January , 1853, on what is now known as “ Farmers' Corner . "
Burnains occupied the building on its completion , placing therein a
general merchandise stock . In the fall of the same year a business
house was built by P. E. and Wm . A. Nichols, on the site where
Keen's restaurant now stands. Other houses were soon added , and
the place began to take on the appearance of a village. For some
years it continued to grow and flourish , the fine farming country adja
cent demanding just such a market as Ashland afforded . It was not
till May, 1877 , however , that the town was incorporated as a city of
the fourth class . The first board of trustees were Eli Penter , J. W.
Grannis, W. T. Nichols, John G. Wiseman , A. G. Payne — Wiseman
being the chairman . R. C. Bowman had the honor of being the first
city marshal. The first sidewalk in the town was built in 1880. A
large mill was erected in 1877, with “ five run of stone ” and a grind
ing capacity of one hundred barrels per day , the flour being made by
patent process . These mills are owned by the Ashland Mill Company,
and cost over $ 20,000 . The Farmers ' Bank was incorporated and
commenced business August 3d , 1881. The directors were Abner
Martin , J. W. Johnston , R. E. Sappington , H. T. Wright , Peter Ellis ,
Sr., O. B. Thomas and Eli Penter, the latter being elected president,
and Edward L. Dimmitt chosen cashier. The city board at this time
presents :he following names : Eli Penter, chairman ; T. W. Peck ,
treasurer ; W. R. Hopper , marshal ; D. L. McBride , B. P. Matthews,
T. G. Tuttle , J. T. Rothwell, trustees , and W. J. Warren , city
assessor.
At the town election in April, 1882, the citizens voted an appropria
tion of $ 3,000 for improving the streets.
The school building, a two-story frame edifice, was erected in 1859
by a company incorporated as the Ashland High School Association .
It was purchased by the district in 1871 , and devoted to public school
purposes . They employ two teachers , the principal at this writing
being Prof. Buckmaster. The town also has a colored school, with an
attendance of about fifty pupils. The town now has a population of
about five hundred , as it has grown since the census was taken in
1880 .
Ashland has two hotels, a livery, feed and sale stable , and several
restaurants , thus securing entertainment and comfort for man and
beast . The situation of the town generally , and on the gravel road
from Columbia to Claysville specially , gives it a commercial prestige

enjoyed by few inland towns of its size. Her shops and stores are
therefore thrifty , and her citizens of a hardy class, most of her busi
ness men having come from the agricultural element originally , and
possessed of that sturdiness that usually characterizes such a class .
Her professional men , numbering two lawyers and several physicians,
are as enterprising and successful as her merchants . The various
churches and lodges , of which Ashland has several, are bistorically
outlined in the sketches given hereafter. One of the chief enterprises
of this enterprising town is the well-known and far -famed
ASHLAND STOCK SALES,
A term used to signify a periodical convocation of live stock dealers

at Ashland, to buy and sell and “ trade ” horses ,mules, cattle , etc.
These stock sales had their origin and conception in the fertile brains
of W. H. Bass and J. W. Johnston, who may properly be said to
father the enterprise . In the fall of 1881, a company, called the
• Boone County Stock Sales Company,” was formed , with W. H.
Bass as superintendent and J. W. Johnston , secretary . The other
members of the board of directors were 0. B. Thomas, George M.
Nichols , George Arnold , Peter Ellis , W.H. Thompson , Alex . Brad
ford , W. S. Burnett, Thomas L. Bass and W. S. Maupin , with R. S.

Martin as treasurer . The first notices of sales were issued for No
vember 5 , 1881, and have taken place regularly once a month since
that time. The sale lots are located just north of the buildings on
the north side of the principal street, and are so systematically ar
ranged as to be a model of convenience in handling stock before and
after selling . Mr. W. H. Bass , one of the originators of this scheme,
was so kind as to take the historian all through these yards and ex
plain their utility and convenience . Buyers and sellers come from
other counties in Central Missouri to attend these sales , and much
valuable property of the kind changes hands at every sale. The sell
ing is done principally by auction or outcry , Col. Worley , of Columbia ,
beiug the official auctioneer .
ASHLAND BUGLE .
The only paper published in the place is a Democratic weekly ,

called the Ashland Bugle , edited by James L.Wilcox , who has issued
it as a weekly since April 13 , 1877. It was originally a monthly ,
founded by Eli Penter and J. W. Johnston , who began its publica
tion chiefly as an advertising medium , in 1875. [ See biography of
J. L. Wilcox . ]
ASHLAND RIOT.
One of the historic reminiscences of the usually peaceable town of

Ashland is what is known as the “ Ashland riot, ” which occurred
there on election day, November the 4th , 1878 . About four o'clock
P. M., the streets were filled with negroes , many of whom were noisy
and turbulent , from having imbibed too freely of bad liquor that al
ways flows too freely on election days . The deputy marshal ordered
them to keep quiet, when one of the “ nigs ” replied with a most insult
ing epithet, which naturally raised the anger of the officer, who, of
course , seemed inclined to resent. Both negroes and whites became
involved in the quarrel from this , and both sides armed themselves
(most of them probably already supplied ), in anticipation of trouble .
The conflict soon became general, and a negro named Harris is said
to have fired the first shot , though the confusion was so great and
the excitement so intense that it is not certain as to who burnt the
first powder. But it is certainly known that, for a short space of
time, the air was filled with flying rocks and whistling bullets ; and ,
strange as it may seem , no one killed or indeed very seriously hurt ,
though several casualties of a minor sort occurred . The Ashland
Bugle , in its next issue, makes mention of the following : Jim

Harris ( colored ) was shot in bip , and also received a scalp woud.
Alex . Bass ( colored ), wounded in breast by pistol shot . Lowson
Grey ( colored , and reported to be one of the leaders of the riot ) ,
shot through the hand and in the back . A stray shot grazed the
cheek of a daughter of Dr. R. S. Martin , who was standing in her
father's yard , listening to the band when the riot hegan .
SECRET ORDERS - MASONIC LODGE .
Ashland lodge, No. 156, A. F. and A. M., was instituted May 1st,
1858 , the dispensation bearing date of May 28th , 1859. F. G. Sitton
was the first master, and the other charter members were P. J. Ruff
ner , E. M. Bass , J. S. Strode, Wm . H. Harris , John Grant, J. S.
Winterbower , D. L. Sitton , R. S. Martin , H. M. Strode, Theo .
Brooks and J. B. Patten . The present officers are H. T. Wright,
W. M .; A. P. Nichols , S. W .; John W.Sterne, J. W .; E. Penter ,
treasurer ; W. P. Boqua, secretary ; H. S. Baxter , S. D .; William
Crane, J. D. The present membership numbers ninety -three and is
increased from time to timeby acquisitions of new members , the lodge
being in a growing condition . They have a neat frame hall that cost.
$ 800 , and the affairs of the order are in good shape.
ANCIENT ORDER UNITED WORKMEN .
The Ashland Lodge of A.O.U. W.No. 192 , was instituted by 0.J.

Miller , the date of charter being June 26 , 1880. The charter members
were J. W. Johnston , W. R. Hopper , H. T. Wright, John T. Rothwell,
W.R. Stone , H. S. Baxter , Jas T. Milys , B. P.Matthews, Joe Bauman ,
S. H. Whitfield , A. J. Harrington , E. R. Westbrook , W. H. Bass, B.
W. Sapp , J. A. Oates , E. M. Bass, W.H. Callaway , H.W.Whipple ,
W. P. Boqua, M. D. Matthews and Wm . S. Peak . The following
gentlemen were the first officers : H. T. Wright, P. M. W .; W. P.
;
Boqua, M. W .; W. T. Lemon , G. F. ; S. H. Whitfield , overseer ; W.

J. Warren , recorder ; W.R Hopper , financier ; Joe Bauman, recorder ;
Eli Nichols, guard ; J. A. Kerr , inside watchman ; William Blackburn ,
outsidewatchman . The number of present membership is 36. They
own , as yet , no hall of their own, but use a rented room . Mr. H. T.
Wright is delegate to the Grand Lodge.
PATRONS OF HUSBANDRY .
The Ashland Grange, No. 533 , P. of H., was instituted by J. R ..

Cordell, district deputy , and the date of their dispensation was July
30, 1873, their charter being dated Decenber 23 , 1873. A.G. Payne,
Miles Forbis, James W. Edwards, R. V. Burnett , Milton Forbis , E.
M. Bass , J. G. Jones, A.G.Martin , R. T. Bass , R. E. Sappington ,
J. C. Wilcox, Mrs. Mary J. Martin , Mrs. Julia M. Bass and ten others
were the originaland charter members. The first officers were as fol
lows : Master , A.G. Payne ; overseer , J. G. Jones ; chaplain , W. T.
Waters ; steward , J. H. Sappington ; assistant steward , R. T. Bass ;
treasurer, James Edwards ; secretary , R. E. Sappington ; lecturer , E.
M.Bass ; gate keeper, J. C. Wilcox. The present officers are : Mas
ter, J. G. Jones ; overseer , S. H. Whitfield ; lecturer, R. V.Burnett ;
steward , J. H. Sappington ; assistant steward , Eli Winterbower ;
chaplain , William Coons ; treasurer , T. Christian ; secretary , G. D.
Sappington ; gate keeper , J. H. Nichols ; Pomona, Mary B. Sapping
ton ; Ceres , Susan E. Bager ; lady assistant steward , Celestine Guil
loze. The grange at this writing numbers a membership of fifty .
They use a rented hall, having never built a room in which to meet.
ASHLAND BAPTIST CHURCH .
As indicated by its name, this church is situated in the town of

Ashland, its immediate location being lot No. 1 of block No. 2
Broadway Street. The date of its organization was April 19 , 1879,
about forty members being named on its charter roll. The church ,
which is a neat and commodious frame building, was erected in 1880 ,
at a cost of about twenty -five hundred dollars. It was dedicated by
the Rev. Joseph C. Maple, in November, 1881. The names of the
pastors are Jonathan M. McGuire , who served the church a short
time after it was constituted , and Rev. E. D. Isbell, D. D., who suc
ceeded Rev. McGuire , and is still the preacher in charge at this
writing . The present membership numbers seventy , and the church
bids fair to be a power for good in the community .
M. E. CHURCH ( SOUTH )
Was organized in 1854 , the names of original members being

James Roberts, Sr., Thomas H. Roberts , Lawrence Bass , Edwin
Bass , Eli M. Bass, W. C. Maupin , Mrs. Elizabeth J. Maupin , George
W. Dennis, Lewis Percell, Jacob Morris , Mrs. G. W. Dennis , Mrs.
Lewis Percell, Whitley Madden , Mary F. Martin , and William T.
Elliott. The first church building was a frame structure erected the
same year after the church was organized . The present building was
finished in 1875 , and is also a frame, the cost of which was fifteen
hundred dollars . It was dedicated in 1876 by John D. Vincil, D. D.
The present pastor is Rev. H. D. Groves. George W. Rich , A. P.
Linn , William Penn and Samuel W. Cope were connected with the
organization of this church . The historian was not furnished with
sufficient statistics from which to make out a complete history of the
church , but has done the best he could with the matter at hand .
CHRISTIAN CHURCH .
This church was organized April 20 , 1881. The elegant new church
house is a frame structure erected in January , 1882, at a cost of twenty
five hundred dollars, and was dedicated the samemonth by Rev. C.
H. Hardin , of Mexico , Missouri . Rev. 0. A. Carr , the present
preacher in charge, is the first and only pastor the church has yet had.
The particular aim of Elder Carr and his congregation is the restora
tion of Apostolic Christianity in faith and practice , with no creed but
that “ Jesus is the Christ, the son of the living God , and the Bible as
the only rule of faith and guide of action . The present membership
numbers fifty -two. Nothing is required as a test of fellowship but
what the New Testament enjoins as necessary to pardon .
PROVIDENCE .
This village, which is situated on the Missouri, in section 20 , of

township 47, range 13 , now contains several buildings , though , of
course , is unincorporated . The first building erected there is the
house now occupied by Dr. Riggs , and was built in 1844 , by John
Parker , who put it up for a residence . The next house was a store ,
built and occupied by Dr. Riggs, the same year , on the site now occu
pied by Tuttle & Connelly . It was destroyed by fire , and replaced
by the present building . James Wood next erected a stone store ,
and then came a saloon , on the site of the present one. Other build
ings soon followed , and Providence became a village and post- office .
G. S. Tuttle served as postmaster many years , and doled out the mail
to the good people of Providence. At this time the place boasts of
two general merchandise ( Tuttle & Conley and R. A. Roddy & Co. ) ,
one drug store (R. A. R. & Co.) , and one grocery and liquor house
( Frank Austeel ). Bradford Lanham is the general mechanic and un
dertaker , and Robert Nivens plies the “ art of Vulcan ."
NASHVILLE .
One among the first towns projected within the present limits of
Boone county was laid out in 1819 , just below the present site of
Providence on a tract of land owned by Ira P. Nash , an eccentric
genius , who lived in that vicinity for many years , from whom it was
named “ Nashville . ” In 1820 Nashville contained a tobacco ware
house , kept by James Harris and Abraham J. Williams, a post -office
and several other buildings. It at that timepromised to be one of the
largest shipping points on the Missouri, and grew to be a place of some
enterprise , when the treacherous river swept it away .
Old Ira P. Nash was indeed an eccentric genius, as stated . He was
quite wealthy, and it is said did many a generous deed . He was pug
nacious and would fight on small provocations. At an early day he
was tried in the Boone County Circuit Court for fighting a duel. He
was convicted and fined $ 100 . He was among the very first slave
owners in Boone County to manumit certain of his slaves. ( See also
general history , pp . 147 , 148 ) .
STONESPORT .
This is another of the defunct villages that once had “ great expec
tations ." Its site is a little over a mile above Claysville , on the Mis
souri river , and it was laid out in 1836 , by Asa Stone and William
Ramsey , Peter Wright doing the surveying. Mr. Mark Sappington
is authority for the statement that Mat West was the first merchant
at Stonesport, and was there in 1830. At one time Stonesport stood
a good show of being selected as the capital of the great State of Mis
souri, but the committee chose Jefferson instead .
BIOGRAPHIES .
FRANCIS AUSTEEL .
Joseph Austeel, father of Francis , was a native of Canada , and of

French origin . His mother , Mary Grindstaff, was a native of Ken
tucky , but a resident of Boone comty , Missouri, at the time of her
marriage . The subject of this sketch was born near Burlington , in
Cedar township , July 31, 1840. He is the oldest of a family of six
sons and five daughters , of whom three sons and four daughters are
living , all in Boone county . Mr. Austeel was reared in Boone county ,
with the exception of a few years spent in Saline county , Missouri.
In 1866 he went into business at Providence , a small village on the
Missouri river, situated in the upper corner of Cedar township , deal
ing in groceries and liquors, in which business he is still engaged .
Part of the time he has conducted a farm in connection with his other
business. He was married in Boone county , December 29 , 1867, to
Miss Fannie E., daughter of David Tooley , native of Illinois, but
more recently of Cooper county , Missouri. They have had three
sous and two daughters. Two of their sons are dead . In 1864 he
enlisted in Captain Webb's company, of Colonel R. C. Bradshaw's
regiment , the 44th Missouri Infantry . He took part in the battle of
Franklin , Tennessee , and was at Nashville , Spanish Fort and Mobile .
He served until the close of the war . He was corporal of Company
E , during this campaign .
WILLIAM BALDRIDGE .
Robert Baldridge, the father of William , was a native of Kentucky,

but left that state with his parents when but five years old . They
came to St. Charles county in 1795. The father of William was
married in 1809 to Miss Margaret Rybalt, a native of Kentucky. Robert
Baldridge was a soldier in the war of 1812. He died December 30 ,
1865 . Mrs. Baldridge died in Boone county , May 16th , 1878. Will
iam was the sixth son and eighth child of a family of seven boys and
five girls, of whom three sons and two daughters are now living. One
sister , Mrs. O'Neil , lives in Boone county . William Baldridge was
born in St. Charles county , Missouri, February 26th , 1827. He re
mained on his father's farm until he was eighteen years old , when he
came to Boone county . He farmed for two years , then entered the
shop of John Batterton , where he learned the carpenter's trade . After
three years' apprenticeship , he commenced work for himself, and con
tinued the business until 1854. In 1855 he bought a farm on Dry
Ridge , which he cultivated until 1865. He sold the place in 1868
and removed to the farm where he now lives, seven miles northwest of
Ashland . Mr. Baldridge wasmarried , November 30th , 1854 , to Miss
Louisa J. Dickey, a native of Kentucky, but a resident of Boone coun
ty . They have five sons and four daughters, all of whom , except one
son , are living. In the winter of 1862, the subject of this sketch en
listed in the Confederate service, but did notgo South until the summer
of 1863. He was a member of Capt . Twist's company , Dorsey's bat

talion and Hindman's division . On the retreat from the Prairie Grove
battle , Mr. Baldridge was captured by the enemy and taken to Spring
field and from there to Gratiot street prison , St. Louis . He was after
wards sent to City Point, Virginia , for exchange , which was effected
June 7th , 1863. Mr. Baldridge at once reported to his battalion at
Arkadelphia . He was detailed to remain at this post with the sick .
Having been transferred to Young's battalion , he was sent by Gen.
Shelby to Boone county , for the purpose of recruiting a company.
He afterwards joined Mitchell's brigade, hecoming a member of
Searcy's battalion of sharp -shooters. He remained with this com
mand until the close of the war . He is a member of the Nashville
Baptist church , also of the Nashville grange.
JOHN GASPER BARGER .
Henry Brown Barger , the father of John, was born near Sparta ,
West Tennessee , June 12 , 1803, and came to Boone county , Missouri,
in 1819. He was married , February 26 , 1826 , to Phæbe Wilfley . He
died January , 1872. The subject of this sketch was born October 2 ,
1828. Moved from Callaway county , Missouri, to Atchison county
in 1858 , where he lived for seven years, moving next to Moniteau
county where he staid for two years , then to Boone where he has lived
ever since . He was raised on the farm , but learned the carpenter's
trade . Farming is now his chief occupation . Was married, Decem
ber 25 , 1855 , to Miss Harriet , daughter of Philip and Sarah Barger.
Was
One child was born of this marriage, Sarah Jane, now dead .
married the second time, March 28 , 1858 , to Miss P. A. Roads ,
daughter of Thomas and Nancy Roads. She died April 23 , 1864 .
Three children were born of this marriage , two of whom are now liv
ing , Harriet Ann , and John William . Mr. Barger was married the
third time, March 11, 1866 , to Miss Elizabeth S., daughter of Jesse
and Jane ( Wilfley ) Nichols. They have no children hy this marriage .
Mr. and Mrs. Barger are both members of the Baptist church at Mt.
Pleasant. They are also members of the grange , of which he was
master for two years . Mr. Barger is a member of the Masonic lodge
at Ashland . Hemakes a specialty of growing all kinds of fruits. He
was first to introduce the English gooseberry , and has paid as high as
three dollars for a single pear tree. He has about two hundred
apple trees, and four hundred peach trees, and small fruits almost
without number. His farm is situated in the northeast quarter sec
41
tion 33, township 46 , range 12. He possesses a relic of the last

century , a die and bolt for cutting wooden screws, which his father
brought from Tennessee in 1819 .
ELIAS BARNES .
The subject of this sketch is the son of Benjamin Barnes , a native

of Kentucky, and, with one exception , the only citizen of Boone ,
now living, who came to this county in 1817. He is now eighty -five
years old . The mother of Elias Barnes was Lucretia Simms, who
came to Missouri when a child . Elias was born June 15 , 1839. He
was the seventh son and tenth child of his father's family . He was
raised on the farın entered by his father soon after his arrival in
Boone county , and was educated at the common schools of his neigh
borhood . He remained with his father until 1864 when he enlisted in
the Confederate army, joining Captain Strode's company, of
Searcy's regiment, in which he served until the close of the war . He
was in Price's raid and took part in all the battles fought on the re
treat from Independence to Cane Hill. After the close of the war he
was a member of the home guard at Columbia for several months. In
the fall of 1865 he went to work on the farm owned by Mrs. K. Fort
ney . July 29 , 1867, he was married to Miss Lou , daughter of Mrs.
K. Fortney , who is still living at the advanced age of eighty-seven
years . In the winter of 1870 he came to the farm where he now lives ,
in sections 6 and 7 , township 47, range 12. He has always followed
the occupation of a farmer . They have one daughter , Cannabel.
LAWRENCE BASS .
The subject of this biographical sketch is the son of George P. and

Susan (Wiseman ) Bass. He was born on the old Wiseman place ,
January 22 , 1830. He is one of a family of eleven children nine
sons and two daughters - of whom five sons and two daughters are
now living. When a small boy his parents removed from the old
home, in the vicinity of Ashland, to a farm in Howard county , where
Lawrence lived and labored until seventeen years of age . The next
three years were spent in learning the saddlery business, but not liking
the trade, he has never followed it . In the spring of 1850 Mr. Bass
started for California by the overland route , reaching his destination
in the month of July following. He remained in California and Ne
vada until 1875 , making several business trips East, at one timebring
ing with him from Colorado a herd of 2,000 cattle . While in the West
he was actively engaged in freighting, mining, and trading in stock .

In the spring of 1876 he moved to the A. E. Ellis farm , where he now
resides . He is a member of the firm of Bass , Johnston , Brooks &
Harris , Ashland . The firm is known as the Trade Centre . They
have a branch store at Guthrie , in Callaway county . Mr. Bass is also
a member of the Ashland Mill Company ; also a stockholder in the
Ashland Bank , and one of the directors . He was one of the origi
nators of the Boone county stock sales . He has been an extensive
sheep -raiser , having large flocks in Texas . His experience in business
is of wider range perhaps than that of any other capitalist or trader
in his locality . Mr. Bass was married November 17 , 1870 , to Miss
Sallie Ellis, only daughter of A. E. Ellis , of Boone county . They
have had three children two sons and one daughter - of whom only
one, the youngest son , is living. Mr. Bass has had many adventures
during his extensive travels, the most thrilling of which perhaps was
a shipwreck off the coast of British Columbia in 1858. The vessel was
a total wreck . Mr. Bass and several others escaped in an open boat.
He is an affable gentleman , kind and courteous in his manners, and is
justly honored and esteemed by all who know hin .
ELIJAH BOOTHE .
Elijah Boothe is the son of Elijah and Sarah (Woods) Boothe , and
was born about 1839, near Lexington , Kentucky. His parents came
to Missouri and settled near Harrisburg , Boone county , Missouri, when
Elijah was about one year old . His mother died in 1847, and his
father in 1849. When Elijah was twelve or thirteen years of age he
started with two mules , one to ride and one for a pack animal, for Cali
fornia , and with the exception of a few days made the trip alone . He
had two brothers there and went out in search of them . He worked
in the mines and freighted goods from Los Angeles to Texas. He
was poisoned while working in the mines by striking a spring contain
ing corrosive sublimate . His hair came out three times, and the last
time it grew it was perfectly white . He appears to be at least sixty
years of age, but is young yet and vigorous . When out in the " dig
gings ” he says he only saw a white man once a year , during his
long stay in the West . He took passage on a vessel for some island
belonging to some English colonists, and prospected for about six
months. Then he went to Australia and was there for about four
months, being gone, in all , a little over a year . He states that when
he first reached Sacramento he was so small that he could not procure

work , and almost starved to death . At last, after a four years' search ,
he found his brothers . He came home about five years ago, and
stopped a short time near Rocheport . His oldest brother , David H.
Boothe, was a farmer in the Western part of Boone county , and died
recently . One brother , William , is living in Columbia . Elijah came
back to Missouri over the old overland stage route with five horses .
He has had a world of ups and downs in life, and his descriptions of
places and things he has seen is truly wonderful. He has a chair fac
tory and blacksmith shop on the southwest quarter of section 20 ,
township 45 and range established in 1879 . He makes good ,
substantial chairs, which he sells to all the neighboring towns . He is

an Odd Fellow , but is not at present connected with any lodge. He
was a charter member of five lodges in California .
D. A. BRADFORD .
Daniel Alexander Bradford is the son of Austin Bradford , a native

of Virginia , who came to Boone county in 1836 , and to the farm upon
which Alexander now lives in 1837. His mother was Lavinia Hume,
also a native of Virginia . The elder Bradford was married in Ken
tucky. The subject of this sketch was born on the farm upon which
he now resides , April 21st , 1842 . He is the third son and seventh
child of a family of three boys and five girls, all of whom are living.
With the exception of a few years he has spent his life on the old home
place . He was educated at Bonne Femme Academy and at the State
University . He is a farmer , and is largely interested in the breeding
of thoroughbred cattle . He was married in Boone county , November
24th , 1863, to Miss Harriet E., daughter of Rollin Lyman. They
have had two sons and four daughters , all living except one daughter .
Mr. Bradford is a member of the Columbia lodge of I. O. O. F.
MAJOR WM . W. BRYAN .
The venerable subject of this sketch is a native of Bryan's Station ,

Kentucky, and was brought by his widowed mother from that State to
Missouri in the fall of 1827, and has lived in Boone county most of
his life . In early times he attended school at the now defunct, but
then famous “ Bonne Femme” Academy. In 1832 he was sent by
Capt . Hickman on a business trip to Northwest Missouri, on which he
was gone six months. When not engaged in handling stock , Major
Bryan worked on the farm , and in his time has done much of that
kind of invigorating labor. His title was acquired during the Mormon
NX
GI
EN
MAJ. WILLIAM W. BRYAN .

一
war , he being a Major in Col. Gilmore's regiment in the campaign

against the “ Latter - day Saints .” In 1848 Major Bryan was clerk in
Lamme & Bryan's store at Nashville . He also did business for John
H. Bryan & Co.'s paper-mill , distillery and pork packing establish
ments throughout the Southern States. He became captain of the
steamer “ Warsaw ” in ’41, and in ’47 was principal clerk in D. S.
Lamme's commission house , on Water street , St. Louis. He became
agent for the United States bank in 1849, attending to the affairs of
that concern in three States , being constantly immersed in a sea of
business for twenty years , during which he obtained one judgment
for the bank of $ 369,000. The manuscript of the concern was sold
to the paper-mill when its affairs were wound up , and weighed eighty
four tons. He has spent five winters on his land in Dallas, Texas.
At this writing he resides on the Peter Bass mill tract , in Cedar town
ship . He is quite robust in health , and even yet can do any kind of
hard labor . During the civil war, he was a Washington Union man ,
but never a Lincoln man . Major Bryan was never married . He has
never asked an office of the people, never engaged in a lawsuit of his
own , and all through his useful and eventful life never asked any
thing but even -handed justice from any man , nor would he ever have
less. He has done a great deal of business for others, and his record
is one of which he is not ashamed , but on the contrary , is as justly
proud as are his many friends.
E. C. BURNETT .
Edward Camplin Burnett was born in Boone county , October 13th ,

1838. He is the son of Dabney and Elizabeth ( Ramsey ) Burnett,
natives of Kentucky. Mrs. Burnett was the daughter of Capt. Ram
sey, an associate of Daniel Boone's in the early settling of Kentucky.
The parents of Edward Burnett first settled in St. Charles county . In
1825 they came to Boone and settled on a farm one and one-half miles
north of Ashland, where the elder Burnett died in 1845. On this farm
the subject of this sketch was born . He was the fourth son and ninth
child of a family of seven boys and four girls. Was educated at the
district schools of his own neighborhood . In the spring of 1859 went
to Colorado, and the year following to New Mexico , remaining three
months in Santa Fe. He remained in the West until the fall of 1868,
visiting Montana , Arizona , Utah , Idaho and Oregon . Returned to the
old farm , where he has since lived , except during the year 1871 , which
wils spent on another farm . He is an official member of the New Sil
lem Baptist church , also of the Ashland Lodge of A. F. & A. M. He

was married October 13th , 1870 , to Miss Sarah E. Rice, a native of
Boone county , the daughter of David Rice , who emigrated from Ken
tucky to this county in 1819. They have had four children , one son
and three daughters, of whom only the three daughters are living .
R. V. BURNETT.
Robert V. Burnett is the son of Joseph Burnett, a native of Virginia .

He removed to Kentucky and from thence to Ohio , finally coming
to Missouri in 1820. He settled first in Howard county , but soon re
moved to the place.known as Burnett's ford , on Cedar creek , where
he remained until his death in 1853. His wife was Mary Ann Leopard ,
a'native of Kentucky and pioneer settler of Missouri. He built one
of the first mills ever erected in Boone county . Robert V. was born
December 6 , 1837. He was the second son and second child of a
family of four boys and one girl,of whom only Robert and one brother
are now living. He remained on the farm until the spring of 1854,
when he commenced working at his trade, that of stone mason . He
entered the Confederate service August 14 , 1861, under Captain John

M. Robinson . In December , 1861, he was transferred to a company
of 1st Missouri Infantry under Colonel Burbridge . Was reorganized
and put under Colonel Cockerill as the 2nd regiment after battle of
Shiloh . Mr. Burnett belonged to this command until he left the ser
vice , January 2 , 1865 . He took part in the battles of Lexington ,
Biker's Creek , Champion Hills, Big Black River and Vicksburg .
During the siege he threw a thirty -two pound shell among a party of
Federal soldiers who were undermining the Confederate works, being
the first man to throw by hand a shell with lighted fuse attached.
After the surrender and while on the way to the place where they
were to be paroled , he left the line to get something to eat and was
captured by the enemy and held a prisoner of war. Was kept two
weeks at St. Louis and from there sent to Camp Morton , Indianapolis ,
where he remained until near the close of the war when he was re
Jeased and allowed to return home. In the fall of 1873 he bought and
moved to the farm upon which he now lives, one-half mile north of
Ashland . He was married in Boone county , April 25 , 1865 , to Miss
Martha Martin , daughter of John P. Martin . Has had four sons and
two daughters, of whom the three oldest , two sons and one daughter ,
died within the space of fifteen days of diphtheria . Mr. Burnett is a
member of the Baptist church , and of the grange. He was delegate

to the State grange in 1881–2 .
J. W. CONLEY .
James William Conley was born in Cedar township , Boone county ,

Missouri, March 18 , 1848. He is the son of Benjamin Conley , a
pioneer settler and one of the largest land holders in the county .
His mother was a native of Kentucky. He is the youngest of a
family of five sons and five daughters, of whom three of each sex are
living, all in Boone county . He lived on the farm upon which he was
born until the fall of 1875 , when he removed to the place upon which
he now resides. His farm consists of 800 acres of excellent land finely
improved . It is situated three and one-half miles northeast of Ash
land and fifteen miles southeast of Columbia . He is largely engaged
in stock raising and has some very fine thoroughbred cattle. Hewas
married in St. Louis, April 29 , 1878 , to Miss Abbie S. Terry , daugh
ter of Thomas J. Terry, of the firm of Terry, Hodson & Co. Has
had one son and one daughter . The son , alone, is living .
WILLIAM HENRY CURTRIGHT.
The subject of this sketch is a son of Henry and Elizabeth Curt

right, the former of whom was born , lived and died in Kentucky,
while the mother was a native of Maryland , though reared in Ken
tucky. William was born on his father's farm in Bourbon county ,
Kentucky, July 2d , 1825 . He was the third son and fifth child of a
family of five boys and three girls, and was reared and educated in
his native State . He came to this State and county in 1852, and
located on the farm where Bonne Femme church now stands, and has
resided there ever since . Mr. Curtwright has been an extensive stock
trader , and his operations in this particular have been in different

parts of the land . He is still an importer and breeder of fine cattle .
On October 2 , 1857 , he was married to Miss Catherine Jenkins, a
native of Kentucky, and daughter of Theodore Jenkins, of Boone
county . They have had two sons and one daughter, the latter of
whom died in childhood : Mr. Curtright owns a very fine stock farm
of 382 acres , six miles from Columbia , on the gravel road to Ashland .
The first owner of this place was Col. McClelland, who settled it and
sold to Mr. Theodore Jenkins, from whom Mr. Curtright got the
ownership .
EDWARD L. DIMMITT .
Mr. Dimmitt was born at Liberty , Clay county , Missouri, June 3d ,

1849. His father , St. Clair Dimmitt, was a gentleman of French
descent , and a native of Virginia , and his wife , Edward's mother, was
born in Ohio . Edward L. received the elementary part of his educa
tion in the public schools of Liberty , and completed his course at
Watson's Seminary in Ashley , Pike county , leaving school for busi
ness life in 1867. He then engaged in the drug business in the em
ployment of his brothers in St. Louis, remaining with them until
1873. During the first and second years of that time he attended
lectures at a school of pharmacy . In 1873, he came to Columbia , in
this county , and engaged in the drug business under the firm uame of
B. & E. L. Dimmitt . In June , 1874 , he became a senior partner of
the firm of Samuel & Strawn . From January , 1879 , until July , 1881,
he was book -keeper in the Exchange National Bank. At the latter
date he accepted the position of cashier of the Farmers' Bank of Ash
land , to which place he removed in September of the same year , and
of which he has since been a resident .
September 10 , 1872, Mr. Dimmitt was married to Miss Betty R.
Samuel, daughter of John M. Samuel, a well-known citizen of this
county. Five children have been born to them , four of whom , two
boys and two girls, are now living .
Mr. D. has been a member of the Presbyterian church since 1865 .
He is a member of the A. O. U. W., the National Temperance Relief
Union , and of the Good Templars . He was a delegate to the Grand
Lodge of the latter order at Hannibal, in 1870, and at the session at
Columbia , in 1880. He has held all of the offices in the subordinate
lodge . In 1875 and 1876 he published The Golden Age, a temper
ance paper, at Columbia . Theodore Tilton claimed that the name of
this journal was an infringement on that of his own of the same name
published in New York . Mr. Dimmitt investigated the matter and,
finding that Tilton had no copyright, procured one himself, and then
called on the distinguished sentimentalist to discontinue the publica
tion of his New York Golden Age .
DR . DAVID DOYLE .
The subject of this sketch was one of the pioneer preachers of the
West, uniting within himself the qualifications of a minister and a
physician .His opportunities for doing good were varied and exten
sive , and he discharged his whole duty to his fellow -man in the most
cheerful and acceptable manner, leaving behind a memory of good
works that will ever survive him . He came to Cedar township in
1818 , being among the first settlers of that portion of Boone
county.. He was born in Rutherford county , North Carolina, and it is
said that he commenced preaching before he was nineteen years
old . He also commenced the practice of medicine at an early age .
In the month of December , 1819 , he with fifteen others met at the
house of Anderson Woods for the purpose of founding a church , and
were there and then constituted into what has since been known as the
Little Bonne Femme Baptist church . He was pastor of New Salem
Baptist church for twenty-nine years, having been chosen December

2d , 1828 . He died of typhoid fever , July 29th , 1859. The congre
gation at New Salem erected a handsome monument over his grave as
testimony of their great love for him as a man and their high appre
ciation of his services as a minister .
PETER ELLIS , DECEASED .
The subject of this sketch was born in Botetourt county , Virginia ,

April 1 , 1778 . He went with his father's family to Greenbrier
county, and thence to Hawkins county , Tennessee. In 1800 he went
to the Scioto Salt Works, and from there to St. Louis, which was then
under Spanish rule. He was married on a sand bar near St. Charles ,
to Miss Eleanor Patterson , a Catholic priest officiating. Mr. Ellis moved
to Boone county in 1818 , where he lived until his death , January 27,
1849. They had ten children - six sons and four daughters several
of whose biographies appear in this volume.
JOHN ELLIS .
John Ellis is the oldest son and second child of Peter and Eleanor
( Patterson ) Ellis. He was born in St. Louis county , Missouri, De
cember 10 , 1805 , and came with his parents to Boone county in 1818 .
He was educated at the Bonne FemmeAcademy, completing his studies
in 1828 ; was married March 17 , 1831, to Catharine Doyle , oldest
daughter of Dr. David Doyle . He then moved to a farm adjoining
his father's , where he lived until 1834. In the fall of that year he
bought and moved to the farm he now occupies , consisting of 400
acres on the Two -Mile Prairie , five iniles northeast of Ashland and
twelve miles southeast of Columbia . He had two sons and three
daughters, of whom but one is now living - Mrs. Field , of Denver ,
--
Colorado. In 1860 his son , William P., then in his twenty -seventh
year , was burned to death in his store at Providence. He was a
graduate of the University , and a young man of bright promise , and
his horrible death was universally lamented . In 1837–8 Mr. Ellis
commanded a company under Col. Richard Gentry , in the Florida
war . The next year hewas commissioned a colonel, and had command
of a regiment under marching orders from Governor Boggs . This was
during the Mormon insurrection . He was preparing to start with his
regiment to the Mexican war , but was prevented by the illness of his
wife , who died August 25 , 1846. He was one of the first curators
of the University . Of his colleagues , all are dead but one. He
served as public administrator for ten years ; was justice of the
peace from 1844 to 1878. He now holds a commission as notary
public . Few men in Boone county have been more active in public
affairs, or disposed of more business , and none perhaps have come
nearer rendering general satisfaction .
PETER ELLIS .
Peter Ellis is the youngest of ten children , born to Peter and Eleanor
Ellis , pioneer settlers , and was born in Boone county , August 19th ,
1826 , where he was raised and educated . Was married October 12th ,
1848, to Miss Sallie Mosely , daughter of William Moseley , who set
tled in Boone county in 1827. Two sons were born of this marriage,
one of whom died in infancy the other when nearly grown . The first
wife having died in 1852, Mr. Ellis was married in 1861 to Miss
Amanda Moseley , sister of the first wife. By this marriage they have
had four sons and three daughters, all of whom are now living . Mr.
Ellis has been actively engaged in the mule trade since 1854, and has
not failed taking a drove South every year except during the war. He
has been a member of New Salem Baptist church since 1842.
E. P. ELLIS .
Elisha Patterson Ellis , one of the most substantial farmers of Boone

county , and aman of superior intelligence and energy, was born in St.
Louis county , Missouri, September 11th , 1817. His parents were Peter
and Eleanor (Patterson ) Ellis . They left St. Louis county the year
after Elisha was born , and settled on the farm now known as the William
Bass place, two and one-half miles north of Ashland , Boone county ,
Missouri. The elder Ellis was successful in life , being able , at his
death , to give each of his ten children a farm of 160 acres of excellent
land . Elisha Ellis was reared on the home place , remaining with his
parents until he was twenty - five years old . He availed himself of
every opportunity to procure an education , and when he went forth in
the world to work out his own destiny he was well prepared for the
duties of life . In 1841 he came in possession of the farm upon which
he now lives . Except the dwelling ,which he afterwards enlarged , the
land was unimproved . Hemoved to this place in the spring of 1843,
having the year previous married Mary Jane Sheley , sister of Judge
Sheley , of Independence, Missouri. Mr. Ellis has lived on this farm
since settling it, except two years, from the spring of 1873 to 1875 ,
spent in the commission business with the firm of Godlove & Ellis , St.
Louis , Missouri. Mr. Ellis was married to Mrs. Mary Jacobs, of
Holden , Johnson county , Missouri, formerly a native of Clark county ,
Kentucky. Mr. Ellis was for many years general of militia . Has
been a member of New Salem Baptist church for forty years. Since
1840 , Gen. Ellis has been steadily engaged in the mule trade, buying
work mules and taking them South . His farm consists of 320 acres,
situated four miles northeast of Ashland and fifteen miles southeast of
Columbia , in one of the richest and most beautiful sections of this
country .
J. M. ELLIS .
James McAllister Ellis is the fifth son and eighth child of Peter and
Eleanor Ellis . He was born in Boone county , Missouri, May 27th ,
1821, and was educated at the common schools of the county . Grew
to manhood on his father's farm . At the age of eighteen commenced
trading in mules. Took his first lot of 160 to Mississippi, in 1854 ,
and has been South annually , with the exception of a few years when
trade was dull , and during the war , when there was no trade at all.
Mr. Ellis has a fine farm of 760 acres nine miles northeast of Ashland
and ten miles southeast of Columbia . He was married in Callaway
county , December 9th , 1852, to Martha J. Glasgow , daughter of Na
than Glasgow , of Millersburg . By this marriage they had two sons
and two daughters, of whom but one daughter is now living. Mr.
Ellis is a member of the New Salem Baptist church , also of the A
Ashland lodge of A. F. & A. M.
A. E. ELLIS .
Abraham Ellis is the son of Peter Ellis , a native of Virginia , and

Eleanor Patterson , a native of North Carolina . The Pattersons and
Ellises emigrated to Missouri about the same time and settled in St.
Louis county , where Peter Ellis and Eleanor Patterson were married .
The subject of this sketch was born on his father's farm , December
5th , 1807. Hewas the second son and second child of a family of six
sons and four daughters. In the fall of 1818 he moved with his par
ents to Boone county , pitching their teut, on the night of October 1st,
just two miles south of where Mr. Ellis now lives. Commenced
business for himself in 1829, but remained with his father several
years, conducting business in partnership at home and on a stock
ranch in Arkansas . In 1840 commenced farming on the east
side of Two -mile Prairie , where he lived until the year 1858 ,
when he moved to the place where he now lives . For twenty -eight
years he has been engaged in themule trade, buying in Missouri and
selling in the South , principally at Bastrop , Louisiana. Mr. Ellis'
farm is situated nine miles south of Columbia . He has 700 acres in a
high state of cultivation . He wasmarried , April 21st , 1836 , to Miss
Rutha H. Young , daughter of Edward Young, of Cedar township .
They have one child , a daughter, who married Lawrence Bass, of this
county . He is a member of the New Salem Baptist Church .
WILLIAM T. ELLIOTT.
Smith Elliott , the father of William , came from Garrett county,

Kentucky, in 1825 , and settled near Rocheport, in this county . He
afterwards removed to the Perche bottom , seven miles east of Roche
port, where he died , in 1846. The subject of this sketch was born
in Boone.county , March 4th , 1832. His mother's name was Margaret
Hutcheson , also a native of Garrett county , Kentucky. Young Elliott
was in early life strongly impressed with a desire to travel, and when
gold was discovered in California he was among the first to cross the
plains , being ninety -six days on the road. Spent two years in Cali
fornia ; then went to Panama, and from there to Cuba ; thence to
New York , He then returned home. Having satisfied his curiosity
for travelling he was now content to remain at homeduring the rest of
his life . He was first married December 28th , 1853, to Miss Aman
da, daughter of John G. and Delina Cochran , who lived near Roche
port, Boone county , Missouri. One child , now dead , was born of this
marriage , and named Louvena. Was married the second time, April
6th , 1869, to Mahala , daughter of William and Winnifred Christian .
No children were born of this marriage. After the close of the war
Mr. Elliott spent one year at Hamrick's Station , Putnam county , In
diana. During his stay at that place was made postmaster, by Presi
dent Johnson . He is a member of the Methodist church . Mrs.

Elliott is a Baptist .
DAVID MARTIN EMMITT .
The father of David M. Emmitt was born in Pennsylvania , but has

spent the most of his life in Ohio , where he now lives. His mother ,
Louisa Martin , was a native of Ohio . David M. was born in Waverly ,
Ohio , November 10th , 1843. He was the fifth of a family of six sons,
four of whom are now living. Except David M., they are all citizens
of Ohio . The elder Emmitt is a banker, miller and distiller. The
subject of this sketch was reared in Ohio and educated at Delaware
College , graduating in 1863. After leaving college he commenced
business , buying grain for his father , at Circleville , Ohio . In the fall
of 1866 he went to Europe with his parents and a younger brother .
He remained there one year, pursuing his studies at Frankfort-on
the-Main . In 1867, he returned to the United States , and went in
to the milling and distilling business with his brother , at Chillicothe,
Ohio , under the firm name of Emmitt Brothers, continuing in this
business for five years , when he sold out and came to Boone county ,
Missouri. In 1872 he bought the Rockbridge mill property , consist
ing of mill , distillery , store and 800 acres of land. . Hewas commis
sioned a postmaster in 1875 , which position he held until 1881, when
he resigned . Mr. Emmitt was married at Circleville , Ohio, May 8th ,
1867, to Miss Mary L., daughter of Rev. John Wagenhals, who is still
living , at Lancaster , Ohio , and is probably the oldest German Lutheran
minister in the State . They have had four sons and two daughters ,
ofwhom two sons and two daughters are living. The eldest son died
unnamed . William Henry died in infancy . The living are Edwin ,
Flora , John and Katie. In 1863 Mr. Emmitt joined the parties in
pursuit of John Morgan , in his famous raid through Ohio , and took
an active part in the several skirmishes that took place during that
exciting campaign . He is now permanently located in Boone county ,
and thoroughly identified with its interests.
CAPT. W. FEELY
Is a son of John and Jane (Wilson ) Feely , and was born

January 2 , 1827, in the State of Ohio . He left his native State
when about eight years old , living in Indiana two years, when he
came to Missouri. He lived in St. Louis two years, and then went to
his father's , in Cole county , Missouri,and from there the family moved
to Cass county . He was selling goods in Harrisonville when the war
broke out. Casting his lot with the Confederacy , he enlisted in the
State Guards in 1861, and afterwards in Price's army, Sixteenth Reg
iment, Company K ( of which he was captain ), Trans -Mississippi De
partment. He served four years in the army, and only when Lee
surrendered , and the cause so dear to his heart was hopeless, he laid
down his arms and accepted the situation , as all good soldiers do. At
the battle of Lone Jack he received a gunshot wound in the arm ,
which literally tore away the muscles . He was in the battles of Pea
Ridge, Prairie Grove , Jenkins' Ferry , and Helena. He was married
December 27 , 1866 , to Miss A. J. Watkins, of Cole county, and has
been blessed with four children , all of whom are now , living – Laura ,
John Alexander , D. Postlewait and Beulah. He is now selling gen
eralmerchandise in Wilton , Boone county , Missouri, and is also post
master. He has been engaged in the mercantile business aboutthirty
two years, fifteen of them at his present home. In connection with
his store he has a steamboat landing, and does a general commission
business for the farmers in the country . He also ships about twenty
five thousand railroad ties every year, making that business a spe
cialty .
DR . WILLIAM WINSTON FINDLEY .
The subject of this sketch was born in Rodgersville, Hawkins county ,

Tennessee , December 15 , 1829. He is the son of John B. and Mar
garet ( Winston ) Findley . The elder Findley was born in Orange
county, Virginia . Mrs. Findley was a native of Halifax county , Vir
ginia . They removed to Alabama in 1844 , settling in DeKalb county ,
renoving from there to Madison county . The subject of this sketch
first learned the printer's trade, afterwards the duties of a druggist ,
and for several years clerked in a drug store. He then read medicine
under Dr. Carter , at Lebanon , Alabama, for four years, at the same
time occupying a position in a drug store ; attended first course of
lectures in 1854-55 at Nashville Medical Institute , and a second course
at Marion ( Alabama) Medical College , where he received the de
gree of M. D. After that he was in the drug business up to the break
ing out of the war , when he enlisted under Capt . Thomasson, in Com
pany E , Fourth Alabama ; was afterwards transferred to Capt. Higgins'
company, Twelfth Alabama ; was at Seven Pines , both battles of
Manassas, and at Sharpsburg . He then went to Richmond and took
charge of one of the hospitals of that city . He bore away with him
numerous testimonials both in reference to his skill and of gratitude
from those he had faithfully served . Rejoining the army as a soldier ,
he was captured by the enemy and taken to Rock Island. While a

prisoner at that place he was appointed medical steward in the hospi
tal, and was of much service to his fellow -prisoners. When released
he came directly to Boone county , Missouri, where he has lived ever
since . He first stopped in Perche township , in what is known as Black
foot, where he taught school for several years. He has been practic
ing medicine for about ten years. He was both a soldier and a
physician during his service in the army ; was severely wounded at
Manassas , and was sent to Richmond , where he remained in the hos
pital for three months. He was never married .
MICHAEL FISHER .
Mr. Fisher is the son of George and Mary Ann ( Harness ) Fisher,
both of whom were natives of Virginia . The mother lived to the ad
vanced age of ninety -two , dying in 1881, having spent her entire life
within less than a mile of where she was born . On the paternal side,
Mr. Fisher is of Irish descent, and on the maternal side, of Dutch ori
gin . Jacob Fisher, grandfilther of the subject of this sketch , died in
Virginia in 1835. Michael was born on his father's farm in Virginia ,
on the 17th day of August, 1811, and was the second son and child of
a family of eight sons and three daughters. He was reared and edu
cated in his native State , and has been a farmer all his life. In 1837
he came to Boone county , Missouri, and settled on the Missouri river ,
near Nashville (now defunct ). Hemoved to the farm where he now
resides in 1846 , his place being now a large, finely-improved farm , six
miles southeast of Colunibia , on which he built his present dwelling
house in 1855. Mr. Fisher was married in Virginia , August 19, 1834 ,
to Miss Rebecca Cunningham , who died November 18 , 1839. His
present wife was Phæbe Ann , daughter of W. L. Woolfolk , of Boone
county, to whom he was married January 4 , 1853. Mr. Fisher takes
great interest in educational affairs , and has served as school director
for thirty - four years, being a member of the district board at this writ
ing . He has been a member of the Bonne Femme Baptist Church for
thirty - eight years , and has always labored zealously for the cause of
advancement, morality , and religion . Besides the homestead farm ,
Mr. Fisher is owner of other lands in the fine old county of Boone.
E. W. FORBIS .
Edmund Walter Forbis is the son of George Forbis , a native of

Kentucky. His mother, Mary Perrigan , was also a native of that
State . The subject of this sketch was born in Fayette county , Ken
tucky , June 16 , 1811. He was the youngest of a family of twelve
sons and three daughters , of whom four sons are now living , all in
Boone. Mr. Forbis spent most of his youth in Oldham county , about
thirty miles from Louisville . He came to Boone county in 1837 and
settled on the farm where he now lives, two and one- fourth miles
northwest of Ashland . The farm had been entered before , but Mr.
Forbis improved it . He built the house he now occupies in 1838 .
He was married May 28 , 1845 , to Miss Aun Eliza Blanton , of Boone
county , daughter of Burdette Blanton . She died , September 7 , 1865 ,
leaving two sons and four daughters . Mr. Forbis was again married ,
September 3 , 1868 , to Mrs. Eliza Self, who died February 9 , 1879.
He has two sons and two daughters living in this county . Mr. Forbis
is an official member of the New Liberty Baptist church .
A. R. GIBBS .
Alexander Robert Gibbs was born in Bedford county , Virginia ,

June 4 , 1815. He was the fifth son and seventh child of a family of
nine sons and six daughters .In his tenth year he removed with his
parents to Kentucky where he grew to manhood . Was brought up on
the farm and in early life commenced trading in stock , buying in Ken
tucky and driving to Virginia , North Carolina and Alabama. Was
married in Lee county , Virginia , March 9 , 1847, to Mary J. Gibson,

daughter of Zachariah Gibson . By this marriage they had four
children , two sons and two daughters , all of whom are living
except the oldest son , who was drowned in early boyhood . Mr.
Gibbs came to Missouri in 1851 and settled on the farm where
he now resides , six miles northeast of Ashland , and fifteen
miles southeast of Columbia . There are 260 acres in this tract.
He owns a large body of land on the Missouri river . Mr. Gibbs deals
largely in thorough -bred stock , principally cattle .
NATHAN G. HAGANS
Is the son of Levi and Charlotte (Graham ) Hagans and was born in
Kentucky. His father moved to Missouri in 1842 and settled in
Lafayette county where he lived a year , when he moved to Boone
county , where he died in 1854. Nathan , the subject of our sketch
went to California in 185– and was gone about thirteen months. He
lived in California seven months , having made the trip in a wagon
drawn by oxen . He came back by sea via New Orleans. He has
been married twice . The first time to Miss Rebecca Wilcoxen by

whom he had six children , four of whom are alive. His second wife
was the widow of Samuel Wilcoxen , and the daughter of Joseph and
Elizabeth Peak . Mr. Hagans is of Irish origin upon his father's side
and inherits their good qualities of head and heart. He keeps the
landing upon the river known as Hagans ' landing and handles and
ships about 12,000 ties per year. He is one of the very best citizens
in a county noted for her number of men of sterling worth .
THOMAS G. HAGANS
Is the son of Levi and Charlotte (Graham ) Hagans ; was born August
27, 1846. His father came to this county from Allen county, Ken
tucky, in 1843, and settled in Boone county , near Burlington . His
father died in 1854, after farming in this county for eleven years .
Thomas is a bachelor living alone on his farm . He devotes his time
to farming and gardening, making the cultivation of watermelons a
specialty . He lived four years in Buchanan county , four in Callaway
and one year in Miller county , thence back to his present homewhere
he has since lived . He is one of the yeomen of the country, such
men as are relied upon by all governments to make them strong at

home and respected abroad .
JAMES S. HICKAM .
The subject of this sketch is the son of John and Lucinda ( Collier )
Hickam and was born in Boone county , September 18 , 1835. His
father was a native of Virginia and emigrated to Cole county , Mis
souri. In 1834 he came to Boone where James was born . At the age
of nine, his father moved to Henry county , and then to Barry county .
From Barry he moved back to Henry and from thence he moved to
Cass county . From Cass he moved to Bates county and finally back
to Cole county again where he died in 1856 . At his father's death
James went to Maries county , where the three counties of Maries ,
Osage and Miller corner upon each other . He lived there 12 or 13
years engaged in farming . From there he moved to Cooper county
and lived there about four years , when he moved back to Boone, the
county of his birth . He has been engaged in farming all his life until
the spring of 1882, when he rented out his farm and engaged in the
grocery business . He married , March 13, 1856 , Miss Elizabeth
Barnhart, daughter of Hoover and Elizabeth Barnhart. Seven chil
dren are living, viz ., Salina Frances , Minerva C., John W., Radford ,
42
Eliza Evelyn , Eleanor and Conley . Mr. Hickam was a Confederate

soldier under General Parsons, 9th Missouri, company C. He was
captured at Rolla and taken to St. Louis and incarcerated in McDow
ell's college . He was afterward sent to Alton until the war was nearly
over , when he was exchanged at Vicksburg .
THADDEUS HICKMAN .
The subject of this sketch is the son of William Hickman , of Bour

bon county, Kentucky. His mother was Mary Tureman , a native of
Mason county , Kentucky , Thaddeus Hickman was born in Bourbon
county , Kentucky, February 14th , 1828 , and was educated in the dis
trict schools of his neighborhood , Hewas one of two sons of a family
of eleven children , six of whom are now living . After becoming of
age hemanaged an estate belonging to his father and brother. After
wards he commenced farming on his own responsibility in Pettis
county, Missouri. The war having commenced, he left his farm and
returned to Boone county , but did not actively engage in business
until the close of the war . In 1867 he opened a store at Burlington ,
where he remained until the spring of 1875 , when hemoved to the old
Tyre Martin farm , south of New Salem Church , where he now resides .
He now turned his attention largely to breeding thoroughbred cattle.
His stock was selected with great care from the best herds in Kentucky.
By close and careful attention to business , he has attained much celeb
rity as a breeder of short horn cattle. His herd is one of the best
in the country . One of his cows, Jenny Lind 7th , is winner of many
prizes, among others a prize in Scotland ; first prize as two-year old at
Michigan ( 1872 ) State fair ,and fine prizes subsequently . He has always
purchased of the leading importers and keeps none but the best . He
has cattle from the best herds of Kentucky , also from the herds of
John P. Sanborn ,Michigan ; Ben Sumner , Connecticut, and D. S. Pratt,
of Brattleboro , Vermont. Mr. Hickman is a member of the Ash
land grange .
T. B. HICKMAN .
Thaddeus Bryan Hickman is the son of David M. Hickman , one of

the old pioneer settlers of Boone county . He visited this section of
the county as early as 1817 . Mr. Hickman did not return until 1822 ,
when he came to stay. Hewas married in Kentucky to Miss Corne

lia Bryan . He purchased a large body of land in this county , his real
estate consisting of 3,000 acres . Thaddeus was born November 22d ,
1829. He was the fourth son and fourth child of a family of six sons
and one daughter ,all of whom , except one son , are now living - four
in Boone county . He was educated at Bonne Femme Academy,
completing his studies in 1849. Since 1860 , Mr. Hickman has fol
lowed farming. He lives about midway between Columbia and Ash
land . He has traded largely in stock . He is now engaged in raising
thoroughbred stock . He was married in Louisiana , May 1st , 1860 ,
to Miss Louisa Hickman , of Rapides parish . He is a member of the
Bonne Femme Baptist church .
GEORGE HUBBARD .
George Hubbard is the son of John and Mary ( Ballou ) Hubbard ,

natives of Kentucky , where their son George was boru November
17th , 1805. They emigrated to Callaway county , Missouri, in 1831 ,
and to Boone the year following, settling the place where Mr. Hub
bard now resides. The subject of this sketch is the fourth sou and
fourth child of a family of four boys and two girls , two sons and
one daughter of whom are now living. Mr. Hubbard has been a
farmer all his life . He was married in Kentucky, August 12th ,
1829, to Miss Patsy H. Gibbs, daughter of Alexander Gibbs. They
have three sons and six daughters, of whom two sons and four
daughters are living, all in Boone. Has been a member of New
Salem Baptist church since 1840. His farm consists of 400 acres ,
situated six miles northeast of Ashland and fifteen miles southeast
of Columbia .
E. D. 1 $ BELL , D. D.
Rev. E. D. Isbell, a prominent Baptist minister , and , at this

writing, pastor of New Salem church , Cedar township , iš a native
of Paris , Bourbon county , Kentucky , where he was born October
17th , 1825 . His parents, James and Fanny Isbell, were natives
of Virginia , having emigrated to Kentucky about the year 1820 .
Mr. Isbell was educated at Georgetown, Kentucky, where he grad
uated in 1846 . He then attended the Baptist Theological Semi
nary, graduating in 1851. The year following he commenced the
regular pastorate with the Beal Street Baptist church , Memphis,
Tennessee . His health having failed , he returned to Kentucky in
the summer of 1854. Was afterwards pastor of several churches in
Kentucky, and president of Augusta College , Bracken county , for
several years , and professor in Georgetown College . He came to
Missouri in the winter of 1873, and stopped at Macou City until
called to the pastorate of the Baptist church at Columbia , where he
labored quite successfully for four years . During this time there
were about three hundred additions to the church . He next served
the church at Fayette , Missouri, for two years, during which time
the membership was doubled . In 1879 he took charge of the New
Salem church , and has preached for that congregation ever since.
He has here met with about the same success that attended his labors
elsewhere . Mr. Isbell was married March 5th , 1846 , to Miss Sarah
E., daughter of Joab and Jane Wheat, of Paris , Kentucky . They
have one son , Harvey W., who was educated at Georgetown College ,
Kentucky , and at West Point military academy, New York . He
afterwards studied law , but never practiced his profession . He is also
a journalist and a writer of ability . He has been connected with a
number of papers in Missouri, but is, at this writing , engaged in
teaching. He is married , and now makes his home at Nevada, Mis
souri.
E. D. JOHNSON
Is the son of Johnson and Mary ( Turley ) Johnson , and was

born May 10th , 1826. He is a posthumous child , his father hav
ing died before he was born . His father settled in what is known as
the Boone's Lick country , in Howard county , Missouri. After his
father's death his mother came to Columbia , and , being poor, the
older boys were “ bound out,” and an aunt took the only daughter .
The subject of our notice was adopted by L. L. Pace , and reared
upon the farm which Mr. Johnson now owns. He went to the
country schools and what was then called Rockbridge Academy, and ,
later, he attended the University for three years. He has been a
farmer all his life , and is one of Boone's well -to -do , staunch citizens.
In 1849 he went with a party to New Mexico , when the Far West was
the Eldorado of all the young, and many of the old men of the
country . Shortly after leaving Missouri he took the cholera, and
died , as his comrades thought . All preparations were made for his
burial, when they discovered that their cattle had strayed off. So
they postponed the obsequies until the wandering oxen had been
found. Upon their return , great was their joy when they saw signs
of life in the friend they were about to bury alive . By careful nurs
ing he was restored to health , and continued his journey to New
Mexico . Heonly stayed in theWest a short time, when he set his face
toward the rising sun , and came back to Missouri, the garden of
America .He was married to Miss Dorothy Ann Payne, daughter of
James and Lois Payne, of this county . His wife died July 27th ,
1865. He has three children , all living : Laura Alice , Spurgeon G.

and John E. Miss Laura went several years to the University , and
is a regular graduate , taking the full classical course . Mr. Johuson
is a meniber of the Baptist church at Nashville , this county .
JOSEPH WATERS JOHNSTON .
John T. M. Johnston , father of Joseph , came from Kentucky to

Boone county when a boy, and settled , with his parents , near Colum
bia , being among the pioneers of this county . His wife was Minerva
Waters, and of this pair the subject of this sketch was bor , August
29th , 1848. He first saw the light on his father's farm , and was the
second son and third child of a family of four sons and four daughters,
all but two of whom still reside in Boone county . He acquired his
education in the veighborhood schools in the vicinity of his old home,
in the Ashland school and in Jones ' Commercial College of St. Louis .
In the fall of 1866, he first engaged in business for himself, opening a
general store in Ashland, which he conducted for three years. In
1869 he formed a partnership with A.G. Paine, and they did business
till the fall of 1871. He then formed a partnership with J. G. Wise
man , which lasted till 1880. Mr. Johnston then became a member of
the firm of Bass, Johnston , Brooks & Harris , with whom he is still in
business at this writing , their business depot being known as the
“ Trade Centre .” He is also a member of the Ashland Mill Company ,
and a director of the Farmers ' Bank . In 1870 , he built the Johnston
Hotel, and in '77 erected the livery stable at Ashland. He was one
of the originators of two important enterprises of his town, viz ., the
mill project and the bank . He is also secretary of the “ Ashland
Stock Sales." [ See history of Ashland ) . Mr. Johnston was married
at Bonne Femme church , November 5th , 1880, to Miss Julia Harris ,
daughter of Judge James Harris , deceased . They have one child , a
daughter . He is a member of the Baptist church , and also belongs
to the Masonic fraternity and A. 0.U. W.
J. G. JONES .
Joseph Glenn Jones is the son of Mosias Jones , a native of Keutucky,

who emigrated to Missouri in 1805, settling first in St. Louis county .
In 1818 he came to Boone county , then almost a wilderness. He was
a member of the first grand jury ever empanelled in the county . He
settled on the south end of the Two -mile prairie. On this farm the
subject of this sketch was born , June 7th , 1825. He is the fourth son
and seventh child of a family of six sons and six daughters , all of
whom lived to maturity and became members of the New Salem Bap
tist church . Of this family four brothers are alive at this writing .
Three brothers and one sister are living in Boone county . Mr. Jones
lived on the home place until 1848, when he purchased and removed
to a farm near where Claysville now stands. He resided on this place
until the spring of 1878 , when he removed to Ashland, intending at
the time to give up business. He bought a fine farm adjoining the
town , which he still cultivates. During the war he was arrested by
the Federal authorities and taken to Jefferson City . From there he
was sent to Gratiot street prison , St. Louis, where he remained for
several months, being finally transferred to Alton . When released
from prison he returned home and was allowed to remain with his
family until the troubles were over . Mr. Jones has handled a
great deal of stock , and devotes much attention to diseases of
horses and cattle . He is now a member of Mount Pleasant Bap
tist church , also a member of the Masonic order , meeting with the
Ashland lodge. He also belongs to the Ashland Grange. Mr.
Jones's wife is a native of Tennessee . They were married in Cedar
township , May 11, 1847. They have three children , two sons and
one daughter , the latter by adoption .
W. E. JONES .
William Elijah Jones , is the son of Christopher H. Jones, a native

of Madison county , Kentucky . He came to Boone county with his
brothers, Mosias and Lyne Jones in 1818 , being among the very ear
liest settlers of this county. Christopher Jones was married in Ken
tucky to Miss Martha Yates . Emigrating to Boone county , soon
afterwards he settled on the farm now occupied by Elijah , at which
place all his children were born . The subject of this sketch was born
October 23d , 1841. He was the sixth son and twelfth child of a
family of six sons and seven daughters, of whom three sons and three
daughters are now living - four of them in Boone county . Mr. Jones
was reared on the farm and educated at the common schools of the
neighborhood . In 1861 he enlisted in Gen. Clark's Division of
Missouri State Guard , being a member of the Sixth regiment. He
served in this regiment for six months, when he was transferred to the
Ninth Missouri Infantry with which command he remained until the
close of the war . He participated in the battles of Lexington , Pea
Ridge , Mansfield , Pleasant Hill, Jenkins ' Ferry , and numerous skir
mishes of less note . Surrendered in June, 1865 , and returned to his
home in Boone county , where he has remained ever since . His farm
is situated two miles west of Ashland . Makes the breeding of fine
bogs a specialty . He was married , February 26th , 1867, to Miss
Mary S. Forbis, daughter of E. W. Forbis , of Boone county . They
have one son and two daughters .
J. A. KERR , M. D.
Dr. James Albert Kerr is the son of Wm . Kerr, a farmer and a

native of Frederick county , Va., and Isabella Castlemane Kerr , born
in Clark county , Va . The doctor was born on his father's farm March
6th , 1838. He was the youngest child of a family of fifteen children ,
nine boys and six girls. Three of the boys still survive . The doctor
was educated chiefly at the Winchester (Va .) University . In the
spring of 1854 he entered the drug store of David Ricketts, of Balti
more , and remained one year . The next year he served with J. B.
Moore , in the same business, in Washington , D. C. The next year
he was with John Keeshan , Cincinnati, and the next two years with
Alex . Leitch & Co., St. Louis. In the spring of 1859 he became
book -keeper for Rufus Fitch & Co., stationers. He then made a trip
to Texas and was absent six months. On his return , in 1861, under
Dr. J. N. Edwards, of Jefferson City , he continued the study of medi
cine, which he had already begun while serving as a druggist . He
received his diploma from the St. Louis MedicalCollege, in 1862. In
March , 1863, he began the practice of his profession at Cedar City ,
Callaway county . He remained there two years, or until the spring
of 1865, when , having been drafted into the Federal service as a com
mon soldier, and not wishing to fight against the South , his sympathies
being with that section , he excused himself ( !) and went to Salt Lake
City . Here he practiced for thirteen months. From the spring of
1866 till the ensuing fall he was in Helena , Montana . He then came
to Boone county , and settled in Ashland , and here and in the sur
rounding country he has ever since been actively engaged in the prac
tice of his profession .
May 17, 1870 , Dr. Kerr married Miss Sophia A. Nichols, a daugh
ter of Robert Nichols, a farmer , and an old resident of Boone county .
They have had born to them six children , three boys and three girls .
Of these one boy and two girls are still living . The doctor is a mem
ber of the Ashland Baptist church and belongs to the Ancient Order
United Workmen .
WALTER THOMAS LEMON
Was the ninth born of a family of ten children , five sons and five
daughters . His parents were Robert and Amanda (Mars ) Lemon ,
and Walter T. was born on his father's farm , one-half mile west of
Columbia , December 27 , 1853. Two of his brothers and four of his
sisters attended the first school under Prof. Tandy Orear, in the old
brick house , repaired for the “ model school ” department of the Uni
versity . The subject of this sketch , took his course through the Uni
versity , graduating from themedical department in 1876. He began
the practice at Vandalia , in Audrain county , Missouri, remaining there
nine months, and then coming to Boone county , where he has since
been engaged in the practice of his profession . At Ashland, where
he resides at this writing , he has been associated with Dr. J. T. Roth
well . In the winter of 1879–80 , Dr. Lemon attended lectures at
Bellevue Medical College, New York , and received his degree from
that institution in the spring of 1880 . He was married , March 15 ,
1881, at Mexico , Missouri, to Miss Nannie , daughter of Rufus Pear
son , a prominent merchant. They have one child , a daughter . Dr.
Lemon belongs to the A. O. U. W., and is an earnest and consistent
man in whatever he believes to be right. His father is, at this writing,
still living, and resides on the old farm . His mother , however, is
dead , having departed this life in January , 1857.
LEASEL LITTLEBURY LINDSAY .
This gentleman was born October 24 , 1814 in Spartanburg district ,

South Carolina . He is the son of John and Elizabeth (Warford )
Lindsay. His parents being poor hired him out to the neighbors to
help çarry on their farms. He grew to manhood in the neighborhood
of his birth , and is without text-book education . When he was twenty
years of age he left home and learned the tanner's trade . Then he
came to Boone county , Missouri, in 1834 and has resided here ever
since. He located in the vicinity of Union settlement, near Union
church on the Perche. He lived there a year and then moved to where
he now lives or in close proximity to his fårm . He is a farmer , but
has carried on the business of milling for about seventeen of the
twenty -three years since he moved to the old homestead . He was
married June 4 , 1837 , to Miss Adeline A. V. Edwards, in this county .
She was the daughter of Presley and Mary J. Edwards, who had moved
to Missouri from Tennessee some years before. He is the father of
twelve children , five of whom are dead . Mary E. (deceased ) , born

April 18 , 1839 ; Eliza J., born March 1 , 1841 ; Sarah Margaret, born
December 18 , 1842 ; Zerelda A., burn January 1 , 1845 ; Jezreel,
born September 28, 1847 ; Jasper , born April 22 , 1849 ;
Cassy C. P. (deceased ), born February 23 , 1853 ; Newton,

born February 15 , 1856 ; Frances Ellen (deceased ), born
August 2 , 1858 ; Adeline Lenora , born January 23 , 1861 ; Leasel and
James, twins (deceased ), born April 1 , 1864. He is a Mason - mem
ber of the lodge at Ashland . Both he and his wife are members of
the Baptist church . He is a good citizen , enjoying the esteem and
confidence of his neighbors , as an evidence of which , he has been a
justice of the peace for six years.
ABNER MARTIN , M. D.
Dr. Martin was born February 7 , 1835 . He received a good com

mon school education in the schools of his neighborhood. In 1854 he
began the study of medicine, with his uncle , Dr. Meredith Martin , of
St. Louis , and graduated from the St. Louis Medical College four
years later, or in 1858. After his graduation , he practiced in Boone
county for about five years. He spent the winter of 1863–4 in Belle
vue Medical College, New York , from which noted institution he re
ceived a diploma in the spring of 1864. He then returned to Ash
land, where, and in the county generally , he practiced his profession
extensively until 1881, when he became president and superintendent
of the Ashland Mill Company , and this position he still holds. May
11 , 1859 , Dr. Martin was married at Providence, Boone county , to
Miss Annie Tuttle , a daughter of Judge Gilpin S. Tuttle. Of this
union two children , a son and a daughter, have been born . The doc
tor has been a member of North Salem Baptist church for about thirty
years.
R. H. MARTIN .
Robert Hudson Martin is the son of Nathan and Mary ( Hill) Mar
tin , natives of Kentucky, who emigrated to Boone county , Missouri,
in 1838. Robert was born in Todd county , Kentucky, December
27th , 1820 , and was educated at home, his father being his only
teacher . As the elder Martin was a good scholar, the son's education
was not neglected , as it might otherwise have been , for in Robert's
boyhood there were no public schools in that section of country . He
was the fourth son and seventh child of a family of eleven children ,
six sons and five daughters, of whom only five are now living. Mr.
Martin crossed the plains to California in 1850, returning home in

1851. In 1852 he bought and moved to the farm where he now re
sides , one and one-half miles north of Ashland . He was married ,
December 14th , 1848, to Miss Nancy E. Harris, a native of Boone
county . They have had ten children , eight daughters and two sons,
of whom six daughters and one son are now living. Mr. Martin has
given special attention to stock raising and has made the business
quite profitable. He is a member of the New Salem Baptist
church , also of the Ashland lodge , A. F. and A. M. Mrs. Martin
died September 9 , 1881.
ROBERT SIDNEY MARTIN , M. D.
The professional gentleman whose naine heads this sketch is the

son of Lincoln R. and Isabella Martin , and grandson of Wayne Mar
tin , who came from Madison county , Kentucky , to St. Louis , Mis
souri, in 1816 , and to Boone county in 1818 . His grandfather was,
therefore, one of the earliest settlers of the county and was one of the
founders of the Bonne Femme Baptist church , who left it to found
the New Salem church . Dr. Martin's mother was a daughter of
Abner Nichols, who came to Boone county in 1825, and he ( Robert
Sidney ) was born on a farm one-half mile from Ashland , this county ,
July 18 , 1833. He was the second of a family of eight boys and two
girls, five of the former and one of the latter still surviving, and all
residing in this county . Dr.Martin attended the district schools in his
boyhood , and thus acquired the elementary part of his education . In
1856 , he began the study of medicine with his uncle , Meredith Martin ,
of St. Louis, and also attended the St. Louis Medical College , from
which he gratuated in 1858. In the winter of 1859–60 , he took a
course of lectures at the Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia ,
from which he received his diploma in the spring of 1860. He had
begun the practice of medicine in Ashland , in 1858 , and returning
there , after finishing his course , he resumed the practice , which he
has built up to be both extensive and lucrative . He had not practiced
to any extent, however , when the war came on and he entered the
Confederate service as surgeon ofthe 6th Missouri regiment of infantry ,
Clark's division of Gen. Price's army. He was in the battles of
Boonville and Pea Ridge , and after the latter, was assigned to the
hospital service until May following, when he returned home. Dr.
Martin was maried , October 3d , 1860, to Mary L. Blanton , of Ken

tucky Three sons and four daughters have been born to bless this
union , all of whom survive at this writing. The doctor is a member

of the New Salem Baptist church , and also of the Ashland lodge of A.
F. and A. M.
W. T. MAUPIN .
Wellington Tilman Maupin is a son of W. C. and Elizabeth Scott

Maupin , both natives of Albemarle county, Virginia . They came to
St. Charles county , Missouri, in 1835 , and to Warren county in 1837 ,
where Mr. M. engaged in merchandising in addition to farming. Here
Wellington T. Maupin was born January 16 , 1838 , being the third
child and second son of a family of four sons and two daughters. In
the spring of 1845 his parents removed to St. Louis , and in the fall of
the same year to Boone, settling on a farm and also keeping a store
at Nashville, ten miles southwest of Columbia . Here young Maupin
improved the educational advantages afforded by the common schools
of his neighborhood, and attended them whenever possible , his educa
tion being mainly the result of his own efforts. In 1857 he entered
the dry goods house of Stephens, Conley & Smith , at Columbia , and
here remained one year , the next year becoming deputy postmaster.
Afterwards he was for five years salesman for Hume & Park , dealers
in general merchandise , and then became a member of the firm , which
then took the name of Hume, Park & Co. In 1867 he engaged as
salesman with Barth , Victor & Myer , generalmerchants. In 1870 he
engaged in the grocery trade in partnership with Mr. Allen , the firm
being Allen & Maupin . In 1875 he disposed of his interest in this
business and for the next two years was a salesman, first for Riggins
& Orear, and afterwards for Moss & Prewitt. In 1877 he came to
Ashland , where he has since been engaged in merchandising, at first
" on his own hook ,” and subsequently , in September, 1881, becoming
a member of the firm of Wiseman , Maupin & Co.
November 5 , 1863 , at Kansas City , Mr. Maupin married Miss Re
becca E. Wilson , of Lexington , Kentucky , daughter of an American
officer who fell in the war with Mexico . To them have been born four
children , two only of whom are now living. Mr. Maupin has been a
member of the M. E. church , South , since 1854. He belongs to Twi
light Lodge, A. F. and A. M., of Columbia , and also to the Good
Templars. He has been several times a delegate, and is now delegate
elect , to the annual Methodist conference of Missouri. In 1871 he was
licensed by his church as an exhorter . He was at one time superin
tendent of the Columbia Sabbath school, and is now superintendent of
the Methodist Sunday school at Ashland .
MRS. MARY M. MURRY .
The maiden name of Mrs. Murry was Glasgow . Her father , Nathan
Glasgow , was one of the early pioneers of Missouri. Her mother's
maiden name was Graham . Mrs. Murry was first married to Erastus
King, of Callaway county , in 1848 . Mr. King died in 1856 , leaving
three small children , all boys . In the spring of 1865 Mrs. Murry
moved to the farm upon which she now resides, ten miles southeast of
Columbia , containing 480 acres . Two of her sons, Nathan and John
G. King, live with her. In 1874 she was married to Andrew Murry ,
who died in 1876. Mrs. Murry's sons were all educated at Westmin
ster college, Fulton , Missouri. One son died in infancy .
P. HENRY M'KENNA .
P. Henry McKenna was born in Jefferson county , New York ,March

19 , 1839. He is the son of James and Margaret (Bruton ) McKenna.
His father was a farmer , and the son was brought up.in that avocation .
He joined the Union army at the breaking out of the war, becoming a
member of Company C , First New York light artillery , with which he
served through all the most prominent battles of the Army of the
Potomac . He took part in sixteen of the hardest -fought engagements
of the war ; participated in the battles of Bull Run, Fredericksburg ,
Chancellorsville , Gettysburg , Falling Waters, Antietam ,the battles of
the Wilderness and around Richmond . He was married September
15 , 1870 , to Miss Julia , daughter of Otis and Rosette Legate . They
have four children living - Charles Edwin , Laurena Henry, Fred .
and Bertba . The subject of this sketch was left an orphan at an early
age, and commenced work for himself at three dollars a month . He
not only had to care for himself , but for several younger members of
the family. He owns about 400 acres of land near Claysville, and one
of the finest views in the State. His house stands on a high bluff,
back from the river about one and a half miles . He is the postmas
ter at Claysville. He is a genial, whole -souled man, a kind neighbor ,
and worthy citizen . He has by his own labor accumulated a compe-
tency, and enjoys it as a reasonable man should .
THOMAS GARLAND OLD .
Thomas Garland Old , blacksmith , is the son of S.M.and Elizabeth .

(Nichols ) Old . His parents were Kentuckians , who emigrated to
Boone county , Missouri, where the subject of this sketch was born ,
February 6th , 1844. The elder Old was a farmer, and the son was
reared on a farm and worked at that business himself. Commenced
Settled at
working at the blacksmith's trade six or seven years ago .
Claysville in November , 1881. Was married May 18th , 1876 , to Vir
ginia , daughter of George Mack Hickam , of Boone county . They
have two children , Hezekiah and Luvestie. Mrs. Old's father was
born and raised in Boone county . Her mother came from North Car
olina .
REV . DAVID OTT .
David Ott , Sr., father of the subject of this sketch , was a native of
Virginia . He emigrated first to Kentucky and then to Missouri, land
ing in Boone county in 1826. He first settled about six miles south
west of Columbia , where he remained two years. He then moved to
Perche bottom , where he remained until 1844 , when he removed to a
place northeast of Columbia , remaining there two years, thence to a
farm below Burlington , where he lived until his death , March 17th ,
1857, aged sixty -three . He was a wheelright by trade. The subject
of this sketch was born May 13th , 1830. His mother's maiden name
was Susannah Perkins. She was a native of Virginia , moving first to
Kentucky and then to Missouri. She was married to David Ott in
Rock Castle county, Kentucky. David Ott, Jr., lived in Boone
county until 1859, when he removed to Carroll county , Missouri,
where he resided until 1862, when he moved to Linn county , where,
in 1870 , he was ordained a minister of the Baptist church , and was
engaged in the ministry until he came to Burlington . Went to Texas
in 1877 , where his first wife died in 1878. Was in Texas about a
year and a half. Returned to Carroll county and engaged in the min
istry for a while as a missionary , then returned to Boone. While in
Carroll county was pastor of Coloma and Bethlehem churches and
supplied the church at DeWitt. After returning to Boone he preached
for the Burlington church for one year. Was first married Septem
ber 21st , 1853, to Miss Matilda A., daughter of William and Mary
Risk , natives of Kentucky. Have five living children by the first
wife : Nathan B., A. L., J. B., M. F. and John P. The first four
named are living in Carroll, the last mentioned is with his father .
Mr. Ott was married the second time January 8th , 1878 , to Mrs.
Sarah ( Nichols ) Chase . Mr. Ott was in the Union armyabout twelve
months, being a member of Company C , Forty -third regiment , Mis
souri Volunteers. He was for a while a lieutenant in the " Bobtail
Militia ” of Carroll county. He is a Mason and a Granger. Was
a constable and a justice of the peace while a citizen of Carroll

county . He is of German origin .
OTWAY P. PECK .
The subject of this sketch was a native of Maryland , but was reared
in Virginia. After he grew to manhood , he emigrated to Mason
county , Kentucky, where he was elected sheriff for two termis , discharg
ing the duties of that office satisfactorily . Hethen moved to Lexing
ton , Missouri, and was living there when the gold fever of “ '49 "
took so many of Missouri's best citizens to California . While he was
absent in California his family moved to St. Francois county , where
they remained about a year, and then moved to Ste . Genevieve , where ,
after about a year , they were joined by Mr. Peck , who had come
back from California . They then moved to Boone county in the fall
of 1852, and settled in Columbia . He died in Johnson county , Mis
souri. Hemade considerable money in California , but was taken sick
among strangers and his money melted away. He was married the
first time to Miss Ann DeBell, of Kentucky, who died after being
married five or six years . By this marriage they had one son , who
died in California . He married the second time Miss Frances C.,
daughter of Edward Wood , Esq ., of Fleming county , Kentucky, by
whom he had eight children , only three of whom are living, E. H.,
born in Washington, Mason county , Ky., July 26th , 1841 ; F. W.,
born in Lexington , Ky., February 8th , 1850, and 0.P., born January
1st , 1853. They were reared mostly in Boone county . E. H.and F.
W.are in the drug business at Ashland under the firm name of Peck
Bros., where they have been since March 19th , 1879. E. H. Peck
learned the drug business in Columbia , and is considered a first- class
pharmacist . He took quite a trip through Texas , Indian Territory
and Kansas . After coming back to Columbia he was postmaster there,
and then went into business for himself and succeeded admirably. He
was educated at subscription schools and at the University . He was
one of the charter members of the Knights of Pythias Lodge at
Columbia , and has been city treasurer of Ashland for two years. His
father and mother were strict members of the Old School Presby
terian church . The Pecks were all descendants from three brothers ,
who came over from Ireland , and upon the mother's side were of
French and German extraction . Thomas Stone, one of the signers
of the Declaration of Independence , was one of their mother's an
cestors .
ELI PENTER
Is the son of Martin and Nancy A. (nee Tate ) Penter, and was
born on his father's farm in Independence county, Arkansas , February
7 , 1836. When but thirteen years old he went to Oregon , where he
attended the common schools , the Salem Institute and the Winchester
Academy. From the spring of ’62 till the fall of '65 , he was engaged
in trading in the mines of Oregon and Idaho, transferring supplies
from the head of navigation to the interior mines , doing a wholesale
and also a jobbing business. In the fall of ’65 he sold out at Idaho .
City , and came via Salt Lake City and Denver to Omaha, and thence
on to Quincy , Illinois, where he spent part of the succeeding winter,
winding up with a visit to his old home in Arkansas. His coming to
Boone county was in April , 1866. The three years succeeding he
spent in farming and in teaching in this county . In the fall of 1867
he entered the University of Columbia , in the Sophomore class , grad
uating with honors in the class of 1870. During his last year at the
University he was an instructor in that institution . After leaving the
college he became the teacher of the public school at Ashland , which
position he filled for three years, engaging in the study of law at the
same time. June 6th , 1873, he was admitted to the bar at the session
of the circuit court at Columbia. He has since been engaged in the
practice of his profession , and in attending to his duties as a notary
and in the business of conveyancer and real estate agent. April 1st ,
1875, in connection with J. W. Johnson , he began the publication of
the Ashland Bugle , and continued the same for two years . During
the troubles with the Indians in Oregon , Mr. Penter served six months
in the Oregon volunteers against the savages, and was in two regular
engagements and a number of skirmishes with them .
November 9th , 1881, Mr. Penter was married to Miss Maggie B.
Johnston , daughter of Rev. J. T. M. Johnston, of Boone county .
Mr. P. is a member of the Masonic fraternity and of the Knights of
Pythias . In politics he is a Democrat ; for a number of years he was
a member of the county central committee , and has frequently been
sent as a delegate to his party's county , senatorial and State conven
tions.
MICAJAH GIBSON PROCTOR
Is the son of Micajah and Nancy (Sullins ) Proctor , and was born
November 14th , 1819 , in this county . His father and mother were
both natives of Kentucky . His father died in 1819 and his mother
in 1824 , here in Boone. His father settled on the Big Bonne Femme,
about four miles and a half south of where Mr. Proctor is now living .
Upon the family's breaking up at the death of his parents he lived
with a brother of his mother until he was sixteen years of age, when
he went out to fight life's battles for himself. He was without means
or education , the facilities for schooling being very poor in those early
days. The first year he worked for wages , and received pay for every
day with the exception of one half day which he worked upon the
road . At the close of the year he had saved $ 120 . He went to
school nine months and again resumed work . He then taught two
terms of three months each . He married on November 1st, 1844 ,
Miss Julia Ann Ballinger, daughter of Elijah and Mary Ballinger .
His wife is a native of South Carolina.
They have had ten children ,
five of whom are now living - James E., Mary E., Micajah Gibson ,
Jasper Emmett and Charles Everett . Himself and wife are inembers
of the Old School Baptist church . Hewas a volunteer in the Mormon
war , but never saw service , as the trouble ceased before he arrived at
the rendezvous . His father forted and farmed near Boonville when
he first came here because of the hostile Indians near there. Mr.
Proctor has been a school director for forty years , with the exception
of a year or two. He has a splendid farm , nearly all acquired by his
own industry and good management. He is one of Boone's substan
tial citizens and a clever gentleman .
DAVID RICE .
David Rice was born in Hardin county , Kentucky, September 4th ,

1800. He is the son of John and Patsy ( Johnson ) Rice . When
nineteen years of age , he came to Boone county . His father came a
year later . They settled at Boone's Lick . In 1821 moved to the
Bonne Femme, four miles southeast of McConathy's mill. He was a

farmer, and his son, David , was brought up in the same occupation .
Was married , March 22d , 1829 , to Miss Sallie , daughter of Higgason
and Nancy Harris. They have had nine children , five of whom are
now living : Higgason H., Julina , John J. , David Barton and Sarah
E. Mr. and Mrs. Rice are both members of the Baptist church . Mr.
Rice has been a communicant for sixty years. Mr. Rice had a con
tract for furnishing lumber for the capitol building at Jefferson City ,
and rafted to that city three hundred pieces of timber. Mrs. Rice has
a counterpane which she spun and wove with her own hands sixty
years ago .
HIGGASON H. RICE
Is the son of David and Sarah ( Harris ) Rice, and was born in
Boone county , Missouri , June 6th , 1831, and has lived in the
county ever since. He entered the land from the United States Gov
ernment upon which he lives . He married Miss Mary S. Cropper ,
daughter of Thomas and Nancy Ame ( Mitchell) Cropper , of Cooper
county . By this marriage he had seven children , all living : David
G., John R., Franklin D., Penelope W., Lelia B.,Wm . F.and Mary
S. His first wife died in June, 1874 . His second wife was Miss
Sarab E. Sappington , daughter of Wm . Sappington , by whom he had
three children : Sarah E., Tyre H. and Palmer . His second wife
died January 20 , 1882. Mr. Rice is a member of the Missionary Bap
tist church , and has been a deacon about 27 years . He is one of the
.
oldest Masons of the county , having been at the institution of Twilight
Lodge , at Columbia .
JOHN J. RICE .
Johu J. Rice is the son of David and Sarah Rice , natives of Ken
tucky, but among the first settlers of Boone county . Mr. Rice came
to Missouri in 1818 ,> and settled on the Bonne Femme creek . His
wife , Sarah Harris , came with her parents , in 1819 , settling in the
same neighborhood . David Rice moved , in 1835 , to a farm near
Claysville, where he now resides . On this farm his son John was
born March 17th , 1836. He grew to manhood on this farm , attend
ing the schools of the neighborhood. During the war he was in Illi
nois, where he engaged in various occupations. In the spring of
1865 he was married to Miss Isabelle Nichols, of near Ashland , daugh
ter of John F. Nichols. After his marriage Mr. Rice removed to a
farm he had previously purchased , three miles from Claysville . Here
he remained until the spring of 1872, when he moved to his present
home, one mile north of Ashland , on the gravel road . His wife bav
ing died in 1879, he married Sallie Douglass , a native of Boone
county and a descendant of the first pioneers . Mr. Rice has four
children , three sons and one daughter . He has been a member of the
Mt. Pleasant Baptist church since he was twenty -three years old .
He is also a member of the Ashland Lodge A. F. and A. M., and a
member of the Grange.
MRS . CORNELIA ANN ROBINSON
Was brought from Kentucky by her widowed mother , Sarah Bryan

43
( afterwards McClelland ) , in 1827, and was partially educated at

Bonne Femme Academy. In 1829 she was married to David M.
Hickman , after whose decease in 1856 , she remained a widow for
fourteen years . She was then , in 1870 , married to Elder J. M.
Robinson . At an early age she had professed religion , and was bap
tized by Elder R. S. Thomas, and was ever afterwards an energetic
member of the Baptist church . She united in an eminent degree the
various qualities necessary to the supervision of any amount of work ,
regardless alike of former methods or extent. Each fall she had
from six to eight of the better kinds of York carpets woven , and
made with her own hands some eighty or more garments , besides
entertaining a great number of visitors annually . On many occa
sions she has been known to entertain over night from thirty - five to
forty persons !
For many years, later in life , she was in feeble health , and spent
much of her time in visiting friends throughout the country , travel
ling over the greater part of the continent. She gave liberally of
her means to the poor and needy, never stinting her purse where
she thought she could do an act of real charity . This remarkable
woman wrote her own last will and testament. A corresponde nt says
of her in an obituary : “ Mrs. Robinson was a lady universally
beloved for her gentle , womanly vature and true , Christian charac
ter . Amiable, unusually kind , charitable and affectionate in her
feelings, she was beloved by hosts of friends. " Another writer
says : “ Well do I remember her in my early boyhood when I
played with her children as school- fellows and oftentimes visited
her attractive , beautiful home, which was the seat of refinement and
unsparing hospitality . Everything about her reflected neatness, or
der and gentility , and her devotion to her friends, her neighbors
and her church was indeed remarkable . She was always first at the
house of God and the last to leave the altar of prayer . She per
mitted nothing to interfere with what she conceived to be her duty ,
and was fearless in its performance . Her presence was never a
restraint to the young, but, by her gentle manners, unselfish char
racter and kind words, she imparted joy and freedom to all."
R. A. RODDY, DECEASED .
R. A. Roddy , late a prominent business man of Providence and

vicinity , was born in Tennessee , December 6th , 1831. Came to
Boone county with his widowed mother in 1836. He was married
MRS. CORNELIA A. ROBINSON .
October 26th , 1852 to Miss Sallie G. Tuttle , daughter of Gilpin Tuttle ,

of Boone county , Missouri. His father and mother were natives of
South Carolina. Mrs. Roddy's maiden namewas Lewis . They were
married in South Carolina in 1824 and removed to Tennessee the year
following.' The elder Roddy died in 1835. Mrs. Roddy came to
Boone county , Missouri, the year following , and lived here until her
her death in 1860, having previously married James Dunn . She
brought four children with her to Missouri, Francis T., Robert A. and
James H. Robert A. was born December 6th , 1831 . Was reared on
the farm five miles south of Providence and was educated in the com
mon schools of the county. When about twenty -one years of age he
commenced farming and continued in this business until 1868. He
was also largely engaged in the tobacco , hemp, and stock trade. Iu
the spring of 1869 he bought the interest of Mr. George Haydon in a
store at Providence , thereby becoming the partner of W. P. Tuttle ,
the firm's name being Roddy & Tuttle . Mr. Roddy was drowned ,
October the 5th , 1877, while on his way to St. Louis , on board a
steamer , with hogs for that market. He was a member of the Nash
ville Baptist church , also of the Musonic lodge at Columbia . Seven
children were born to him . James G., Robert A., Margaret A., Albert
and Arthur are living. Two , Willie and Lucy , are dead, the former
having been killed by a wagon, at the age of five years , the latter dy
ing in February , 1881. The family still live at Providence . Robert
is in the mercantile business with Turner S. Riggs and T. R. Courts,
under the firm name of R. A. Roddy & Co. Mr. Courts left
the firm in September , 1881.
DR . JOHN T. ROTHWELL .
Dr. Rothwell was born in Garrard county, Kentucky , July 11, 1840 .
His father, Fountain Rothwell , a native of Virginia , now resides in
the above named county , where he has spent the greater part of his
life, being a large farmer and stock - raiser . His mother, Jennie Roth
well , was a native of Kentucky, and a daughter of Naaman Robberts,
an officer in the war of 1812. John was the fifth child and fourth son
of a family of seven children . Of his brothers , Rev. W. A. Roth
well, M. D., now resides in Moberly ; James M. Rothwell was captain
in the Federal army, and is now an extensive coal miner in Kentucky ;
Samuel D. Rothwell was a lieutenant in the Federal army ; Gideon B.
Rothwell is now living on the old homestead in Kentucky . His sister
is the wife of Rev. W. A. Cravens , of Carthage, Missouri. The doc
tor received a liberal education in his native State , graduating at Dan

ville Central College in 1857.
He commenced the study of medicine in March , 1858 , with Dr. W.
A. Rothwell, who then lived in Callaway county , Missouri, and con
tinued with this gentleman until May , 1860, entering the St. Louis
Medical College in the fall of the latter year. He was married in St.
Louis to Miss Anna M. Cuthbert , daughter of Mrs. Cuthbert , princi
pal of Cuthbert Academy, St. Louis , Missouri. In March , 1861, he
conimenced the practice of his chosen profession in Boone county ,
Missouri. During a part of the years 1861 and 1862 he was surgeon
in the Confederate army ; he then resumed the practice in this county ,
and continued it until the year 1874 , when he went to Colorado with
his invalid wife . Returning from that State two years later , he again
commenced the practice in Ashland, this county , where he still lives .
He was again married May 2 , 1860, to Miss Savilla J. Ruffner , who
was a daughter of Peter J. Ruffner , a large farmer and one of the
early settlers of Boone county . Of this marriage one son and one
daughter were born , of whom the son is still living. Dr. Rothwell is
now practicing with Dr. W. T. Lemon ; is a member of the Metho
dist church and of the town council of Ashland ; an excellent phy
sician , and an estimable citizen .
LEWIS SHELNUTT.
John G. and Rachel Shelnutt, the parents of Lewis, were na

tives of Georgia . They came to Boone county , Missouri, in 1847.
Lewis was born in Georgia , December 12 , 1844. He is the second
son and sixth child of a family of four boys and three girls , of whom
two sons and three daughters are now living . He was reared in
Cedar township , and educated at the district schools of the neighbor

hood and at Columbia . In 1863 he enlisted under Capt. Cook , in
Company F , Ninth M. S. M. In February , 1865, he was transferred
to Capt. James B. Decker's company, of same regiment, in which

he served until the 13th of July following ; took part in several en
gagements , in one of which he had a horse shot under him . After
his discharge he engaged in business at Columbia ; in 1868 went to
farming , and in 1874 moved to the farm which he now occupies , three
miles northwest of Ashland . Mr. Shelnutt was married April 2 ,
1869, to Miss Susan F., daughter of William Blackburn , of Boone
county . They have four sons and three daughters.
FELIX GRUNDY SITTON , M. D.
Dr. Sitton is the son of J. T. and Priscilla (May ) Sitton , aud

was born on a farm two miles from Fulton , Callaway county , Mis
souri, March 8 , 1822. His father was a native of Tennessee, and
his mother of Kentucky , though they came to Missouri in an early
day , where they became acquainted and were married . Dr. Felix
G. was the eldest of a family of four sons and one daughter, the
latter being deceased . One of the brothers l'esides at Ashland , in
this county , and the other , Albert G. Sitton , is in the medical prac
tice at Claysville . The subject of this sketch attended the common
schools of his native county , and acquired a knowledge of algebra ,
natural philosophy , etc., at the school of Mr. Woodsworth , near Wil
liamsburg . At that time he was eighteen years old . For the next
two years he engaged in teaching , also continuing his studies in pri

vate . In the spring of 1845 he commenced the study of medicine
under Dr. E. Rackliffe , of Portland, Callaway county , at the same
time earning the means to prosecute his studies by his own industry .
Two years later he went to St. Louis , where he finished his medi
cal course and received his diploma from the St. Louis Medical Col
lege. He began the practice four miles north of Ashland in 1849,
boarding first in the family of Mr. Strode, and practicing in that
part of the county . In 1855 he moved to Ashland , where he has
since resided and practiced his profession . June 14 , 1846 , he en
listed in Capt. Rogers' company of Col. Doniphan's regiment, and
served in the Mexican war in the “ Army of the West ,” under Gen.
Kearney . On account of failing health , however , he was discharged
from service, and returned home in August. In the following May ,
his health being recovered , he went to St. Louis to continue his studies in
thehospitals. Dr Sitton was firstmarried January 4 , 1853, to Miss Susan
Strode , daughter of Jacob S. and Frances Strode . Shedied September
14 , 1871, having borne four sons and two daughters , all living but one
son . The doctor was again married February 4 , 1877, to Miss Clara
J. Roberts , daughter of John S. and Sallie Roberts , and granddaugh
ter of the Roberts who owned the land on which part of Ashland
now stands. By the last marriage he had two girls . Dr. Sitton
has been a member of the New Salem Baptist church since 1852,
and twenty -two years of that time -he has served as moderator.
He is an active temperance man and a strong prohibitionist . The
historians of this work are much indebted to Dr. Sitton for a le
678 HISTORY OF BOON COUNTY .
tailed history of New Salem church , of which he has been so long a

member .
ALFRED SLACK .
John Slack , the father of Alfred , was a native of Pennsylvania .

He emigratedto Kentucky in 1810 and to Boone county , Missouri,
in 1819. His mother, Mary (Caldwell ) Slack , was a native of Ken
tucky. Alfred was born February 21 , 1821 . He was the fourth son
and fifth child of a family of six sons and two daughters, two sons
and one daughter of whom are now living. Gen. William Y. Slack ,
of the Confederate army, killed at the battle of Pea Ridge , was an
elder brother . Alfred was a student of the State University from the
opening session of that institution until he completed his studies.
After leaving the University , he spent two years in Columbia , clerk
ing in a store. In 1843 , the elder Slack having been appointed tobacco
inspector by Governor Reynolds, which necessitated his removal to
St. Louis , Alfred took charge of his farm and managed it for him dur
ing his absence . In the spring of 1850 he crossed the plains to Cali
fornia where he remained for two years devoting his attention to min
ing. Returning in 1852 , he located at Boonville , where he engaged
in the mercantile business until 1881, when he cameto Boone county,
where he now resides. He is living nine miles southeast of Columbia
upon a farm of 350 acres . He was first married in Cooper county to
Miss Nannie O'Brien , who died in 1865. Afterwards he married Miss
Mary A. Stark , a native of Boone county , and sister to Newman B.
Has had three children , two daughters and one son , of whom
one son and one daughter are living.
FRANCIS M. SMITH .
Francis Marion Smith is the son of William Smith , a native of Mer

cer county , Kentucky. He came to St. Louis at an early day and to
Boone county in 1818 with Peter Ellis, whose daughter he married .
He settled on a farm in the vicinity of Ashland , which he finally im
proved . Upon this farm the subject of this sketch was born Febru
ary 18 , 1840. Was raised on the farm and educated in the cominon
schools of the neighborhood . Has had charge of the farm upon which
he now lives since 1864 . Has always followed the occupation of a
farmer and a dealer in stock , principally cattle andmules. Mr. Smith
was married in Audrain county , September 14 , 1864 , to Miss Hattie
J. Pearson, daughter of Richmond Pearson . They have two sons.
Smirt M. h has been a justice of the peace since 1880. He is a
lo A
Pao ENG CAN
William Smith
member of Dry Fork Baptist church ; also of the Ancient Order

United Workmen .
WILLIAM SMITH , DECEASED .
William Smith was the son of George W. Smith , of Kentucky . He

was born on his father's farm , in Mercer county , Kentucky, April 24 ,
1797. He was the oldest of three sons and four daughters. Ofthese
one son and three daughters are now living : Washington in Arkan
sas, Mrs. Shoults in Boone county, Mrs. Piatt in St. Louis county ,
Mrs. Graves in Texas. William came with his father to St. Louis
county , Missouri, in 1816 , where the elder Smith lived until his death .
In 1818 William caine to Buone county in company with Peter Ellis ,
Sr., whose eldest daughter he married October 29 , 1818. This was
the first marriage ever celebrated within the bounds of what now con
stitutes Boone county , then part of Howard county . Ten children
were born of this marriage , seven sons and three daughters. They
lived to see all their children grown , married and settled ,most of them
within a few miles of the old home. After his marriage Mr. Smith
moved to Callaway county, where he remained seven years . In 1827
he returned to Boone county and settled on the land now owned and
occupied by his son , F. W. Smith . In 1842 he built a large brick
dwelling in which he lived and died , his death occurring May 24 , 1872 .
Mrs. Smith died May 1 , 1876 . Mr. Smith was a zealous
member of the Methodist church . For twenty -five years his
large mansion was used as a place for holding religious
services. He was an enterprising, thrifty, public-spirited citi
zen , doing all in his power to promote every enterprise that was
calculated to benefit his people. He was an active , zealous worker
in the cause of education and gave liberal support to every scheme
looking to a higher and better system of public education . He sub
scribed largely to the State University and lived to see and realize the
fruits of his generosity . Although his life was spent in retirement, he
left a name and reputation that will ever survive him . He was a good
man and a useful citizen .
HIRAM SMITH .
The subject of this sketch is the son of William and Nancy ( Ellis )
Smith . He is entitled to the distinction of being the first white child
born in Boone county of parents who were married in this county .
He was born on the old Peter Ellis farm , August 18th , 1819. He
is the eldest of a family of seven boys and three girls . Remained
with his parents until 1845, when he removed to the farm upon which
he now resides, consisting of 300 acres, adjoining the old homestead .
Was married December 19th , 1844, to Miss Mary A Hubbard , a
native of Boone county , and daughter of Daniel Hubbard , one of the
early pioneers . By this marriage they have had four sons and two
daughters, of whom three sons are now living . Mr. Smith is a men
ber of the New Salem Baptist church . He is largely interested in
stock raising and has some choice high - grade cattle . His farm is
finely improved . His three sons are all married . David H. is il
merchant at Mexico , Missouri ; Dr. William R. is located at Carring
ton station , Callaway county , and Thomas B. is a fariner and resides
in this county
PETER E. SMITH , DECEASED .
Peter Ellis Smith was one among the oldest native born citizens of
Boone county . His father , William Smith , came to Boone county
in 1818. Hemarried Nancy , eldest daughter of Peter Ellis , Sr., the
progenitor of the Ellis family of Boone county. The subject of this
sketch was born March 28th , 1821. He was the second son and
second child of a family of seven sons and three daughters , five of
whom are now living , all but one in Boone county . When five or six
years old , his father moved to the farm now occupied by F. M.Smith .
He remained on this farm until his marriage, February 26th , 1846.
His first wife was Miss Nancy Moseley , daughter of William Moseley ,
of Boone county . Mr. Smith had a fine farm of 500 acres, situated
seven miles northeast of Ashland and twelve miles southeast of Colum
bia . He was a successful breeder of thoroughbred cattle . Was a
member of the Methodist church . Had four children , two sons and
two daughters , of whom only one daughter is now living . The first
wife having died in 1872 , he was again married, July 26th , 1874 , to
Mrs. Lorinda J. Wheeler , daughter of Jobu Crobarger , of St. Louis.
JOHN E. SMITH .
John Ellis Smith is the son of William and Nancy ( Ellis ) Smith ,
who were among the first settlers of Boone county . The subject of
this sketch was born on the old Smith farm , in Boone county , October
15th , 1830. He was the fifth son and sixth child of a family of
seven sons and three daughters. He was reared on the farm and
educated at the common schools of the neighborhood . He lived on
the home place until 1859, when he bought the farm , where he now
lives , which contains 320 acres and is situated six miles northeast of
-
Ashland . He is largely interested in agriculture and is an extensive

dealer in stock . Hewas married in Callaway county , October 9th ,
1856, to Miss Mary J. Boyd , daughter of Thomas Boyd , now a citizen
of Benton county , Missouri. They had four sons, three of whom are
living Mr. Smith is a member of the Methodist church .
GILPIN SPENCER
Is the son of Perry and Eliza Jane (Wiseman ) Spencer ; was born on
the farm where he now lives on the 5th day of February , 1835. His
father was born in Talbot county , Maryland , and was engaged in busi
ness in Baltimore for several years . Financial reverses overtook bim
and he came West and engaged in farming, which he continued until
his death in 1862. His son Gilpin is living upon the old home place ,
attending strictly to business, handling stock and raising grain , of

which wheat is his specialty . He was married , December 10th , 1862,
to Miss Sarah C. Hubbard , daughter of George and Patsy Hill (Gibbs)
Hubbard . They have three children living and one dead , Albert B.,
Sallie Carrie (deceased ), George Perry and Susannah . Himself, wife
and oldest son are members of the Methodist church at Burlington ,
which church he was instrumental in building and is now one of the
leading members . His is a fine farm containing over six hundred
acres of choice land.
JOSEPH I. STERNE ,
The son of Thomas and Nancy ( Ingles ) Sterne, was born in Harrison
county , Kentucky, May 21 , 1828. His father was a native of Vir
ginia , and his mother of Kentucky . Hismother's parents were Joseph
and Mary ( Bryant) Ingles. His grandmother on his mother's side
was a niece of Daniel Boone. He wasmarried October 28th , 1852 ,
to Miss Emma Coleman, daughter of Whitehead and Elizabeth (Pow
ell) Coleman. By this union they have had seven children , six of
whom are living, Thomas W., James G., Frank , Mary B., Dixie ,
Kate and Lizzie , deceased. He is a member of the Masonic fraterni
ty and his wife is amember of the Missionary Baptist church . Hehas
been engaged in farming pretty much all his life , and is a good citizen
and clever gentleman .
THOMAS W. STERNE .
Mr. Sterne is the son of Joseph and Emma (Coleman ) Sterne , and
was born in Harrison county , Kentucky, January 20th , 1854. His

father moved from Kentucky to Boone county , Missouri, when Thomas
was about three years old , where the young man was reared . Hewas
married , October 9th , 1881, to Miss Annie L. Wright, a daughter of

Hale T. Wright. Mr. Sterne has a good common school education
and is regarded as one of the most worthy young men of his section ,
He is a member of the Masonic lodge at Ashland and his wife is a
member of the Baptist church .
JUDGE WILLIAM PORTER TUTTLE .
Judge William Porter Tuttle is the son of John Tuttle , a native of

Virgivia , who , when a young man , went to Kentucky on horseback ,
and while there married Susan Elliott , a native of that State . They
emigrated to Boone county , Missouri, about the year 1826 , and set
tled five miles southwest of Columbia . They were members of the
Presbyterian church , in which faith they lived and died . The subject
of this sketch was born January 20th , 1834 . He was the youngest of
a family of three hoys and three girls, all of whom are now living
except one sister, Mary Jane, who died in 1841, at the age of eighteen .
All of the family , except one, are living in Boone county . Porter
was reared on his father's farm . At the age of sixteen he entered the
Missouri State University , taking the full course as prescribed by that
institution . After completing his studies he entered the store of
Gilpin S. Tuttle , at Nashville , Boone county . Two years later he

was married to his cousin , Nannie P. Tuttle , daughter of his employer.
He then went into partnership with his uncle at Providence, under the
firm name of G. S. & W. P. Tuttle . They did business until they
were obliged to close the store on account of their political opinions.
This was in 1861. In the summer of that year he enlisted in Capt.
Samuel Tuttle's company, of Col. McKinney's regiment, Confederate
army. He took part in the battles of Drywood and Lexington.
While recruiting on this side of the river , was captured , December
15th , 1861. Was' sent a prisoner to McDowell's College, St. Louis ,
where he was soon afterwards prostrated with a severe attack of
small-pox, remaining from the 25th of December , 1861, until March ,
1862, in the hospital. Recovering at last , he was released from prison
on taking the oath of allegiance to the Federal Government. On his
return he resumed business at Providence under the firm name of
Thomas P. & William M. Tuttle. In 1864 they were robbed three
times by guerillas , and once by the Federal soldiers . He now gave
up the mercantile business and went to freighting across the plains to
New Mexico , and finally to Montana , the work being in the interest of
the Federal Government. In 1867 he returned to Providence and
resumed the mercantile business with George Haydon & Co. Two
years later Mr. Haydon sold to R. A. Roddy and the business went on
in the name of Roddy & Tuttle. Mr. Roddy was drowned , October 5th ,
1877, and Mr. Tuttle associated in business S. J. Conley, with whom
he is still doing business under the firm name of Tuttle & Conley .
They do a large mercantile , grain and stock business , and are largely
interested in farming . Judge Tuttle has had three sons and five
daughters born to him , four of whom - Charles T , Annie R., Marion
L., and Victoria R., are dead . The living are Sallie , William M.,
Porter H., and Clara E. Mr. Tuttle was elected judge of the Boone
county court in 1880, and is , at this writing ( summer of 1882 ) , a can
didate for re - election , with a fair prospect of being his own successor.
He was commissioned postmaster at Providence in 1879 , which posi
tion he resigned on being elected a judge of the county court . He
has been a member of the Baptist church for twenty -seven years .
Mrs. Tuttle has been a member of the same church for twenty - eight
years . They united with the church at Old Nashville and were
immersed in the Missouri river . Has been a member of the Ashland
lodge of A. F. & A. M. since 1862..
J. LUCAS TURNER .
James Lucas Turner is the son of Major Henry Smith Turner, who
was born in King George county , Virginia , April 1st, 1811. He en
tered West Point Military Academy in 1830 , graduating in 1834. In
his class were Gen. Halleck and Major John H. Lee, now living On
graduating , was commissioned brevet second-lieutenant of First
Dragoons. Became adjutant at regimental headquarters in July , 1836 ,
which position he held for two years . Was commissioned first
lieutenant March 3d, 1837, and aid -de- camp to Gen. Adkinson in
July , 1839. After which he was sent by the War Department , with
two of his feļlow -graduates, to the cavalry school of France , for the
purpose of studying the system of tactics taught at that institution
with a view of preparing a manual for the United States army. Spent
two years in this work . Returning hoine in 1841, he was made adju
tant of his regiment and stationed at Fort Leavenworth , where he
remained until 1846. Was breveted major for gallant service on the
frontier, and resigned in 1848. In 1850 was appointed assistant
treasurer for the government at St. Louis, which position he held for
three years. Iu 1853 engaged in the hanking business with James H.
Lucas and Gen. W. T. Sherman , remaining with the St. Louis firm
until 1857, when he went to San Francisco , where Lucas , Turner &
Co. had a branch house . Major Turner was married to Julia Hunt,
daughter of Capt. Theodore Hunt, of the U. S. A., a first cousin of
Gen. Robert E. Lee. Mrs. Turner is the granddaughter of John B.
C. Lucas and Ann L. Hunt, who was the daughter of John Baptiste
OFRESIDENCE
TURNER
LUCAS
J.
.,E SQ
Charles Lucas, of Normandy, France . He was educated for the bar ,

and emigrated to America , settling at Philadelphia . He was a mem
ber of the legislature and judge of the common pleas court of that
city . In 1803–4 was a member of Congress , resigned his seat to ac
cept the office of commissioner of titles for the province of Upper
Louisiana . J. Lucas Turner was born in St. Louis , September 25th ,

1854 , where he remained until his family removed to Philadelphia , in
1863. In 1866 the family returned to St. Louis , and J. Lucas went
to Orleans, France , where he studied for three years. Returning to
the United States , he completed his education in 1869 at Georgetown
College, District of Columbia . In 1874 he went into business in St.
Louis as stockholder and director of the Harrison Wire Company .
He remained in this business for two years . For two years following
was connected with the Lucas bank , St. Louis . His health failing,
he retired from the bank and moved a short distance into the country.
In 1880 he removed to Boone county , settling on the farm where he
lives at this writing . He has a fine place of six hundred acres located
twelve miles south of Columbia . Mr. Turner was married, November
15th , 1876 , to Miss Bertha .G. Chouteau , of St. Louis , daughter of
Henry Chouteau , Jr., and granddaughter of Henry Chouteau , Sr.,
who was killed in the Gasconade bridge accident, while a passenger
on the first train over the Missouri Pacific railroad . He has one son
and one daughter . Mr. Turner is the tenth child and eighth son of a
family of ten sons and seven daughters, of whom ten — five of each
sex — are now living His eldest brother, Capt . Thomas T. Turner ,
was a member of Gen. Ewell's staff . Wilson P. H. Turner was first
lieutenant in Col. Pelham's light artillery, and was killed at the
second battle of Manassas. His uncle , Thomas Turner, was admiral
in the United States Navy , and had command of the navy yard at
Philadelphia . Mr. Turner devotes his entire attention to breeding
thoroughbred horses and Jersey cattle . His stock is not excelled on
the continent for purity of blood and lineage . With a determination
to excel in this business , he has spared neither time, pains nor money
in stocking his excellent farm with the finest grade of horses and cat
tle that could be purchased . It is too soon for him to realize the
bright hopes which he reasonably cherishes, but the day is not far dis
tant when the attention of all lovers of fast and beautiful horses will
be turned to this splendid collection , the nucleus of wbich cannot be
excelled in this country .
THOMAS GILPIN TUTTLE .
Mr. Tuttle is the son of John Tuttle , a farmer , who was a native
of Virginia , and born near Bull Run creek , where so much hard
fighting was done during the civil war. John's wife , and Thomas'
mother , was Susan Hall Elliott, a native of Kentucky. The subject
of this sketch was born on his father's farm , in Boone county , July 20 ,
1831, where he continued to reside till 1864 . His education was
obtained in the schools of his neighborhood , which he attended during
boyhood . The winter of 1858–59 was spent in Texas. In January,
1862, he , being a Southern sympathizer , was arrested by order of
Gen. J. B. Douglass, of the M. S. M., and confined in Gratiot street
( St. Louis ) prison, and was also held at Altou . He was released in
the latter part of June following , but had to swear allegiance and give
a bond of $ 4,000 . Returning home he cultivated his farm till he sold
it in the spring of 1864. He then engaged in the mercantile business
in Providence, this county, with his brother . He was twice robbed
by Anderson's men , and was also effectually cleaned out by the Fed
erals , under Gen. Fisk .
In the spring of 1865, he , with two brothers, went to freighting
across from Fort Leavenworth to Colorado and Montana . In Decem
ber , 1865 , he moved his family to Saline county , where he farmed and
fed stock for two years. He bought a farm in the spring of '68 , eight
miles west of Columbia , where he lived ten years , until his removal to
Ashland in '78 . There he engaged in the furniture and undertaking
business, where he still resides . He also cultivates a farm adjoining
the town on the south . Mr. Tuttle was married June 19 , 1855 , to
Gillie C., daughter of James S. Lowery , of Boone county . She died
in 1872 , and he was again married in ’74 , to Miss Georgie E. Tuttle,
daughter of Judge Gilpin S. Tuttle, of Boone county . Mr. Tuttle is
the father of two sons, oldest born in 1875, and younger in 1882.
He is a member of Ashland lodge of A. F. & A. M., and was a
charter member of Locust Grove Grange, P. of H.
WILLIAM CORNELIUS VANAUSDAL .
The subject of this sketch was born in Bridgeton , St. Louis county ,
Missouri, December 4 , 1841. He is the son of Wm . M.and Mary
Ann (Robertson ) Vanausdal. His father was from Greenbrier county ,
Virginia ; and his mother was a native of South Carolina . His father
was drowned off the steamer Belle St. Louis while on his way to St.
Louis in the fall of 1876. He and his family came to Boone county in
April, 1852. He was both a blacksmith and house -carpenter , but the
last years of his life he worked at carpentering exclusively . He built
many of the best houses in and around Ashland . Mrs. Vanausdal's
brother, Jack Robertson , and her brother-in -law , Wm . Fallon , were
the first to carry the United States mail across the plains from St.
Louis to California upon horseback . Wm . C. Vanausdal, our subject ,

was educated at Florissant, St. Louis county , and at Ashland College,
under the principalship of J. T. M. Johnston and Dr. H.M.Chevins
as assistant. When the war broke out he enlisted in Capt. Martin's
company , C. S. A., and was at the battle of Boonville . After Mar
tin's company was disbanded he joined Strode's , and was captured
and imprisoned at the University . After his release he started to
Salt Lake City , but abandoned the idea and went down to Santa Fe,
New Mexico , where he remained about two years, and returned to
Missouri. He went to St. Louis and went into business with Harris
& Pe, mule brokers , government contractors, etc., for whom he

worked a year . He then came back to Boone and engaged in farm
ing and stock trading . He made several trips to the Indian Territory
for cattle , and continued in the business for two years. He next sold
goods in Ashland for Godlove, Payne, Haden & Co., and Wiseman &
Johnston . From there he went to Jefferson City and clerked for
Crow , Roach & Stokes in 1872 . After two years he came to Clays
ville, and , in conjunction with Thomas McKenna, he did a general
merchandising business . He sold out in March , 1881, and went to
farming and handling stock for about a year . He now gives his en
tire attention to the tie business . He purchased a steamboat and
piloted her successfully for about sixty trips , buying and freight
ing his immense number of ties to the different points upon the river .
Mr. Vanausdal was married the 8th of October , 1872, to Miss Martha
Jane , daughter of E. W.and Elizabeth Forbis, of Boone county . By
this union they have been blest with two children , aged eight and two
years . His wife is a member of the Baptist church .
E. R. WESTBROOK .
Edwin Ruthvan Westbrook is the son of Cornelius Westbrook , a

descendant of the early German settlers of Delaware , and his mother
was Betsey Goodrich , a descendant of the early English settlers of the
Connecticut valley, her family living near Hartford . Both families
emigrated to New York and settled on the Genesee River , where Mr.
and Mrs. W.becameacquainted and married . They removed to Ohio in
1833, locating at Cleveland. Here Edwin Westbrook was born ,
March 27, 1835. Two years later his parents removed to Morgan
county and settled on a farm . In 1852 he cameto Clay county , Mo.,
about four miles north of Kansas City . Prior to coming to Missouri,
Mr. Westbrook had attended the common schools of his native State ,
but after settling in this State his education was mainly acquired at
Union School, Clay county , under the direction of George D. Hughes ,
completing his course in 1855 , at the age of 20. After leaving school
he engaged as a teacher, which profession he pursued for 24 years, or
until 1879. During this period he served for two years as principal of
the Ashland Public School. In the fall of 1879 he engaged as salesman
in the store of Wiseman , Johnston & Bass , with whom he remained
until January 1st , 1881. March 1st , following, he engaged in the
business of generalmerchandising with John G. Wiseman , under the
firm name of Wiseman , Westbrook & Co., which partnership continued
until the ensuing October , when W. T. Maupin becamea partner and
the name was changed to Wiseman , Maupin & Co.
Mr. Westbrook was married in Bates county , Mo., October 15th ,
1860, to Miss M. T. Caruth , of that county . They have had born to
them nine children , of whom two boys and three girls are now living .
Early in the civil war , Mr. Westbrook espoused the cause of the
South , and enlisted in Capt . Jackman's company of Gen. Rains' di
vision of Gen. Price's army. Not long after he had enlisted , he was
captured by the Federals and held a prisoner for about two weeks ,
when he was released upon taking the oath . He returned to Boone
county and remained until in October , 1864, when he again engaged
to serve the Confederate cause , and on the 5th of November , at a
point 16 miles southeast of Osceola , St. Clair county , Mo., while on
his way to Geu . Price , he was again made a prisoner. He was taken
to St. Louis and confined two weeks in Gratiot street prison , and then
sent to Alton , III., where he was confined until March 19th , 1865 .
He was then released on condition of his enlistment in the U. S.
army to serve against the Indians on the plains. He was a member
of Company D 5th U. S. infantry. A few
weeks after his enlist
ment, he accompanied Companies C and D of his regiment as an
escort to Col. Sawyer's road expedition from Niobrara City to . Vir
ginia City , Montana Territory . August 13th , he was engaged in a
battle with the Indians near Fort Revo, which lasted nearly all day .
The Indians numbered over 200 and were commanded by Red Cloud .
There were about 250 soldiers. He assisted in the building of Ft .
Reno. He also took part in Col. Carrington's fight with the sav
ages, July 1st, 1866. He returned to the States via Forts Laramie
and Kearney , and was mustered out October 1st, 1866. He then
returned to Boone county , where he has ever since resided .
It is worthy of note that , in 1854 , Mr. Westbrook spent a few
1
months in Mexico , and that in 1856 he made an overland trip to Cali

fornia , where he was engaged in farming and teaching until in Decem
ber , 1859 .
Mr. Westbrook has served as a justice of the peace in his township .
He is a Democrat in politics and has been a member of the Demo
cratic county committee since 1876. He is a member of the Ashland
Baptist church , and belongs to the Ancient Order United Work
men and the Good Templars .
DR . HENRY W. WHIPPLE .
Dr. Henry W. Whipple is a native of Illinois, having been born in

Alton , April 12th , 1842. He is the son of P. B. and Elizabeth
(Williams) Whipple . Was educated at Sedgwick Institute , Grent
Barrington , Berkshire county , Massachusetts. Graduated in the
scientific department of that institution in 1862. Came back to Alton ,
and, in August following , joined company G Ninety -seventh Illi
nois volunteers. Was at Chickasaw Bluffs, Fort Hindman , Port Gib
son , Raymond, Champion Hills, Black River Bridge , Vicksburg and
Jackson . Afterwards was in the hospital department , where he re
mained most of the time until the close of the war . Returning to Ill
inois, he settled on a farm which his father had given him at Mont
gomery . Went to farming and practicing in that vicinity , but having
been wounded during the war by a piece of shell, which struck his
knee , he was compelled to give up farming, as the labors incident to
farm life aggravated the wound and gave him much pain . During his
stay at Montgomery , he was elected a justice of the peace . Iloitt
tended a course of lectures at St. Louis Medical College , but did not
graduate . Moved from Illinois to Bates county , Missouri, where he
went into the drug business. His brother was with him in the busi
ness and practiced medicine during the four years spent in that
county . The subject of this sketch also practiced , but not steadily .
Dr. Whipple next went to Madison county , Arkansas , where he prac
ticed his profession for a few months, and from there he came to
Boone, settling at Burlington , where he has remained ever since .
Was married , April 12th , 1866 , to Margaret L., daughter of C. F.
and Catharine]Powers , of Michigan . Have one son , Henry F. The
doctor is a member of the Methodist church , also of the United
Workmen . The Whipples trace their origin back into the remote
past. One of the family signed the Declaration of Independence .
The doctor has a good practice and is doing well.
44
ISAAC MILTON WILCOX .
The grandfather of Isaac M. Wilcox was born in Kentucky , but

was one among the earliest settlers of Boone county , Missouri. His
son David , father of the subject of this sketch , was born and raised in
Boone. He moved to Holt county , Missouri, in 1852, but returned
in 1861, and remained a citizen of this county until his death , which
occurred at his home, near Claysville . Isaac M. Wilcox was born in
Boone county , December 7th , 1849. His mother, Martha ( Blythe )
Wilcox , was born in Kentucky. The subject of this sketch was raised
on the farm . In early life he learned the trade of tobacco -rolling, but
did not follow it long . Married March 29th , 1870, Elizabeth , daugh
ter of Shelton A. and Martha Carter . They have three children :
Arthur Tarleton , Mittie Dewel and Verdia Alice. Mr. Wilcox's early
education was limited , and his patrimony was even more so . All his
possessions have been earned by his own exertions since commencing
life on his own account . In 1873 he was engaged as a guard in the
penitentiary , at Jefferson City , but had to give up the position on ac
count of sickness . For about two years he was engaged in the mer
cantile business at Claysville, with P. H. McKenna . They sold out
in the spring of 1882, to Wooley & Loux , who are , at this writing ,
conducting the business at the old stand . Mr. and Mrs. Wilcox are
members of the Baptist church .
JAMES L. WILCOX .
James Libern Wilcox is the son of Isaac N. and S. A.Wilcox . His
father was a prominent Kentucky farmer, and ' bis mother was the
daughter of John Clinkenbeard , of Bourbon county , in that State .
J. L. Wilcox was born in Holt county , Missouri, December 15 , 1855.
He was the fourth child of a family of three boys and two girls , all of
whom are now living . When he was three years of age his father
died , and six years later he removed with his mother to Nebraska City ,
then a live trading and outfitting town of 3,000 inhabitants . Here
he lived until 1875 , having attended school three months in the
meanwhile and served an apprenticeship in the printing office of the
Nebraska City Daily and Weekly Chronicle , working from 1868 to
1871. He then worked about a year on the Daily Press . In 1873 ,
in company with five other printers , he reëstablished the old Daily
and Weekly Chronicle, which had an existence of about six months .
In the fall of '73 he went to Omaha , and soon afterwards to Lincoln ,
where he and four others organized a company and published'a daily

paper , in the interest of the temperance crusade, called the Capital
News, which ran a short but brilliant career of three weeks, the
fighting editor ” ( subject of this sketch ) being three times called
into requisition during that brief period . He then worked for the
Slate Journal Company for six months, after which he visited his old
home, Nebraska City , and did job work for the different offices of
that city till April, 1875. Going thence to Hamburg , Iowa, he as
sisted W. A. Fulmer in the publication of the Hamburg Democrat, and
during the campaign of 1876 , was able to do some good work for the
Democracy . His next editorial venture was in Boone county , Mis
souri, in January , 1877 , he, on the invitation of the business men of
Ashland , accepting editorial control of a Democratic paper called the
Ashland Bugle, publishing it as a weekly paper . He succeeded in
securing it a good subscription list , and started the paper on a sub
stantial basis, issuing the first number on April 13 , 1877. The paper
is still published by him , and enjoys an increasing patronage and in
fluence .
Mr. Wilcox married in Ashland , September 14 , 1881, his wife be
ing Mary R., daughter of Samuel Nichols an old resident of Boone.
He became a member of the Baptist church at Nebraska City , and
of the I. 0. 0. F. in Hamburg , and is a charter meinber of Ashland
Lodge, K. of P.
JUDGE HAIL T. WRIGHT. '
Hail Talbot Wright is the son of Fletcher Wright , a native of Ten

nessee , but a resident of Boone county from 1818 up to the time of
his death , which occurred in 1851. His mother , Sophia Talbot , was
a native of Kentucky. Hail was born in the northeast part of Boone
county , September 19th , 1831, and came with his parentsto this place ,
where he now lives , in 1836. He is the oldest of a family of two sons
and two daughters, of whom the Judge alone survives. He was edu
cated at the common schools of the county , and commenced business
for himself as a farmer in 1851, his father having died when he was
but thirteen years old , and his mother about four years later. Mr.
Wright was married June, 13th , 1855 , to Miss Mary Elizabeth ,
daughter of L L. Lindsey , of Boone county . They have one son and
three daughters , all of whom are alive at this writing.
Judge Wright was elected to the office of county justice, and served
the people in that capacity for four years. He is now actively en
gaged in agricultural pursuits and in stock raising . He is a member
of the Ashland Lodge of A. F.and A. M .; also a member of the

Ashland Lodge of A. O. U. W.
A. C. YOUNG .
Ambrose Crockett Young is the son of Edward and Frances (Gray)

Young, both natives of Virginia . They emigrated in early life to
Kentucky, where they were married , removing from that State to
Missouri in 1831 , settling on a farm near Ashland , in Boone county ,
where he died in 1864 , at the advanced age of ninety -two years and
six months. His wife died in 1852. Ambrose was born on his
father's farm , in Clark county , Kentucky, February 1st , 1825. He

was the youngest of a family of five sons and seven daughters, of
whom two sons and three daughters are now living, all but one in
Boone county . He came with his parents to this county in 1831 , and
settled on the farm where he now resides. Was educated at the
Bonne Femme Academy and the University of Missouri. He has al

ways resided on the old home place , a farm of 500 acres of excellent
land finely improved . It is situated on the Jefferson City and Co
lumbia gravel road , four and one-half miles north of Ashland and
nine miles south of Columbia .
CHAPTER XVII.
CENTRALIA TOWNSHIP .
Position and Description - Early Settlements - Organization — Miscellaneous — Union

Church- The Town of Centralia - Early History - The “ Eldorado Hotel ” — The
“ Firsts” — The Fire of 1860 — A Chase for a Bonnet - War - The First Federal
Troops — Bill Anderson's Visit - Burning of Sneed's Store and Hotel by Federal Militia
- Capt. Bryson's Capture of the Train at the Water Tank — When the Cruel War was
Over — Incorporation - The Fires of 1868 and 1872 - Building of the C. & A. Railroad
Town Officers - Public School - Newspapers — Killing of Jo. Collier - Secret Orders
Churches — Biographies of Old Settlers and Prominent Citizens of Centralia Township. .
This is the latest formed and the sinallest township in area in Boone
county , yet it is by no means the most insignificant in every partic
ular , containing, as it does, the second town and some of the best
territory in the county . The northern part of the township is com
HISTORY OF BUONE COUNTY . 693
posed chiefly of prairie ; the southern part of timber . Silvers' Fork

of the Perche rises in this township , in the south central part , flowing
westwardly , and Young's Creek skirts the eastern border . There are
some very fine farms in the township , notably those of J. D.Garrard ,
W. J. Booth , J. M. Angell, S. Bryson and W. R. McBride. The
township contains but 30 entire sections of land , in Congressional
township 51, range 11 west . The eastern row of sections, viz ., 1 , 12 ,
13, 24, 25 and 36 , being in Audrain county .
EARLY SETTLEMENTS .
The first settlements in what is now Centralia township , were made

by " Rudy ” ( Rudolph ) March , Wm . Sexton , Peter Stice and
Thomas Sexton , who moved in from Howard county and settled in
the southwestern part ofthe township , along a small branch of Silvers '
Fork , about the year 1822. All of them were originally from Madison
county , Kentucky. In the spring of 1825 , Daniel Hunter purchased
he farm of Rudy March ( sec. 31–51 - 11 ) , where G. H. Chance now
lives , and removed thereto with his family . This was the extreme
northern settlement in the county at that time. Mr. Hunter put up
the first horse mill in 1836 .
Probably the first male child born in the township was Blueford
Stice, son of Peter and Elizabeth Stice , whose birth is set down as
occurring in 1824. Jane Sexton , daughter of Wm . and Edith Sexton ,
was born in 1827 , being the first female child born within the present
boundaries of the township . The first death remembered was that of
Thos . Sexton , who was buried at Red Top Church .
It is said that no regular physican located in this township until
about the time Centralia town was founded . Dr. A. F. Sneed was
probably the first located physician . The name of the first minister
to hold religious services cannot now be ascertained , but the first
religious organization formed of which there is definite knowledge,
was that of Union Church in 1854. ( See history .) The date of the
first school, the name of the teacher , etc., have not been learned .
The information concerning the early settlement of Centralia hus
been obtained from Mrs. Mary Pool, now the oldest living inhabitant
of the township . Her first husband was Daniel Hunter, who settled
1 It was on the farm of Mr. Garrard where the battle of Centralia was fought. A gun
barrel, ramrod and some bayonet's plowed up in the field in the spring of 1882, and
supposed to have belonged to the Federals, were presented to the writer by MrG., and are
now in possession of the Missouri Historical Society at St. Louis.
on section 31 in 1825. To this venerable " mother in Israel ” the

publisher's desire to return grateful acknowledgments .
The first school in the township was taught by Rice Jones, in a
private house, in the year 1842. The first school house was built in
1845 by Lewis Roberts, and stood about two and a half miles south
of Centralia . It was a log house , and cost about $ 100 .
ORGANIZATION .
Until in 1874 , the territory now comprising Centralia township was

embraced in Bourbon township . Upon the laying out.of Centralia ,
that town was made a voting precinct , and so continued for many
years . Ineffectual efforts were made to form a new township from
time to time, some of the people wishing to defer the matter until it
was settled whether or not “ Rollins County ” would be formed, in
order that it might be settled what territory should comprise the
township .
At last , on June 20, 1874 , the county court made and entered of
record the following order :
In the matter of the division of Bourbon municipal township , in Boone county, and the
establishment of Centralia municipal township : Now , on this day, a large number of the
legal voters resident within Bourbon township came by their attorneys and filed their
petition, praying the court to divide Bourbon township and establish Centralia municipal
township ; and upon a full hearing of the case,the application and the proofs, the court doth
order and adjudge - A municipal township , to be known as. Centralia township, is hereby
created and established with the metes and bounds as follows, to wit : Beginning at the
southwest corner of section 31, in township 51, range 11; running thence north on the range
line to the north boundary of Bourbon township ; thence along the north boundary aforesaid
to the northeast corner of section 2, township 51, range 11 ; thence south with the
division line between Boone and Audrain counties to the southeast corner of section 35 ,
township 51, range 11 ; thence west to the place of beginning. (Record “ S," page 475 Co.
Ct. Recs.),
Since that period the people of the township have gone smoothly
along in their ways , secure in their autonomy and proud of the
privilege of self-government .
MISCELLANEOUS .
The war history of Centralia township may be summarized : The

majority of the people were Confederates ; a number , however ,
sided with the Union and fought for it. The Confederates recruited
pretty extensively ; the Union troops made numerous raids after them .
The Federal militia “ made it hot ” for the secessionists, and both
sides fed off and , in some instances, maltreated the citizens. The
remarkable Centralia massacre, and the bloody affair between Todd's
guerrillas and Johnson's Federals occurred in this township , a full

account of which may be found elsewhere .
There are some excellent schools in the township , and as a rule the
people are intelligent and educated . Quite a number of families
froin Illinois and other Northern States have come in since the war ,
and aided very materially in the development ofthe country .
UNION (CHRISTIAN ) CHURCH
Was organized in 1854, and James Bruton was the first elder.
Among the early members were James Jennings, Jesse Roberts ,
James Williams and C. C. Bush .
The first building used by the congregation as a place of worship
was an old log school house . They erected a large frame in 1868, in
which they have regular inonthly meetings. They have a Sunday
school, and their membership is large , and both church and Sabbath
school is in fine working order.
THE TOWN OF CENTRALIA .
The town of Centralia was laid out in February, 1857, ! y a company

of which Hon . J. S. Rollins, Col. M.G. Singleton , Thos . January ,
and others were members. It was designed as a railroad station , and
only founded upon the certainty of the completion of the North Mis
souri Railroad to the locality . The town was named by the proprie
tors from its central position on the old North Missouri line of railway
from St. Louis to Ottumwa, Iowa . The plat was recorded in May ,
1857, by Col. Middleton G. Singleton , and showed that the town was
located on the south half of the north half of the southwest quarter
and the south half of the southwest quarter of section 10 , and the north
half of the northwest quarter of section 15 , township 51, range 11 .
The first public sale of lots was in May, 1857. Prices ranged from
twenty , to one hundred dollars per lot. No immediate improvements
were made, however , and for months things went on as they were
wont to go. The grass grew , the flowers bloomed, and the rank vege
tation was untrod where now is the busy , bustling town . Not until
the following winter was the first house in the place erected — a large ,
two- story frame, 20x60 feet , built by Tinsley, Elston & Co., and oc
cupied by them as a dry goods and grocery store . It stood on lot 1 ,
block 23 . At the time of the completion of this building the railroad
had not been completed to that point, and the stock of goods was
hauled from Mexico. The next building was the Eldorado Hotel, a
single-story structure of four rooms, still standing with this inscription ,
much faded and nearly obliterated , on its front: “ Eldorado Hotel , by
J.J. Collier .” As an inducement to build this structure , Col. Single
ton gave Mr. Collier two lots, and “ Uncle Jo ," for a long time there
after was known far and near as the “ mine host of the Collier House ,
as many of its patrons named the hostelry . Other houses gradually
went up, and in 1859 there were twenty - five dwelling houses , two
stores and a saloon . The North Missouri Railroad was now finished
to the place and Centralia became, not an experiment, but an estab
lished fact ; owing its existence to the existence of the railroad . An
additional store house and another saloon went up . The former was
managed by R. S. and G. W. Tinsley ; the latter was “ run ” by W.
D. Collier . In the meantime the first store had been closed out and
M. V. Singleton became the purchaser of the building, which was af
terward occupied by T. S. Sneed and M.G. Singleton with a stock of
general merchandise . The latter afterward sold his interest .
In the spring of 1860 the tirst fire occurred . Both stores and the
saloon , with the larger portion of the contents were destroyed . The
principal losers were Dr. A. F. Sneed and W. A. Clark , who had
bought out Sneed & Singleton a short time previously , and R. S. &
G. W. Tinsley , and W. D. Collier. Another hotel, the 6. Boone
House ,” went up in 1860 and was run by V. A. Bedford . It was af
terwards kept by T. S. Sneed , and this was the building burned in
1864 by the German militia from St. Charles.
The second building was put up in the winter of 1858–9, by Win .
H. Wade, a blacksmith . In April, 1859, T. S. Sneed built a dwelling
and moved to town . He is still a resident and the oldest in the place .
Next L. C. Singleton built a dwelling and moved in with his family .
This house was afterward a hotel, the “ Boone House." In January ,
1860 , Dr. A.F. Sneed came to town and became the first practicing
physician . He is still a resident and has furnished much infor
mation incorporated in this chapter . These were all of the families
in Centralia remembered in 1860 .
THE FIRSTS .
The first house built in Centralia was by Tinsley , Elston & Co., a
firm composed of R. S. Tinsley , A. M. Elston , M. V. Singleton , and
Bruce Ball . It was a store building and occupied as such .
HISTORY OF BOONE COUNTY . . 697
The first birth was that of a male child of Dr. A. F. and Lavinia
Sneed , which was born January 7 , 1860. It died 24 hours after birth .
Its death was the first in the place .
The first marriage was that of Pleasant M. Pool and Miss Cynthia
L. Gorham , May 1 , 1864. The ceremony was performed by Rev.
James Berry .
The first school house was built in 1860. It was a small frame and
cost about $ 250 . It stood
It stood on
on block
block 23
23.. Miss Minnie Conger taught
the first school therein , the same year . She had about twenty schol
ars and received $ 20 per month for her services. The name of the
first minister who officiated and the date when the first religious ser
vices weré held are not remembered .
The original cemetery is the one now in use , in the northeast part
of town . It was donated by the town company in 1857.
For three years after the railroad station was established there was
no depot. In 1861 the first one, a small affair , was built by Thos . S.
Sneed . Not long afterward , probably in 1862 , the railroad company
built another and larger one. This was destroyed by Bill Anderson
and his guerillas the time of his raid , and then the present one was
built. Thos. S. Sneed was the first agent. T. W. Gantt was the
agent at the time of the raid , but was not in town . His assistant,
William Rowland , a very popular young man , was killed by the gueril
las the day of the massacre . The particulars will be found on another
page .
The railroad was completed to the town in the spring of 1858, and
Centralia was for a time nothing but a flag station . There were only
three or four houses in the place for a year or two. In 1858 the post
office was established , and Richard S. Tinsley was the first postmaster .
The first practicing physician was Dr. A. F. Sneed , originally from
Frankfort , Ky ., now a resident and active practitioner of the place .
The first mayor was J. H. Fields.
DESTRUCTIVE FIRE IN CENTRALIA .
About 2 o'clock P. M. on Friday , May 11, 1860, the store room of

Sneed & Clark , in Centralia , on the North Missouri Railroad, in Boone
County , was discovered to be on fire . The fire was in an upper back
room , and, from the great scarcity of water in the town, progressed
with almost unchecked rapidity until the entire building and all ad
joining were consumed . Therefore , the store- room and warehouse of
Sneed & Clark ; the store -room and warehouse of Tinsley & Elston ,
and the grocery of William Collier were destroyed . These consti

tuted all the business houses in the place. A considerable amount of
themerchandise of Sneed & Clark and Tinsley and Elston was saved ,
but much of it lost — how much has not been learned . The store
room and warehouse of Sneed & Clark were owned by Singleton &
Ball, and were insured in the Boone County HomeMutual for $ 1,200.
That company also had $ 2,500 on the goods of Sneed & Clark , and
$ 1,400 on the goods of Tinsley & Elston's predecessors , R. S. &
G. W. Tinsley . T. & E. had $6,600 in the Home Insurance Com
pany, New York , J. S. Dorsey , Columbia , agent . No insurance on
the grocery The post-office was kept by Tinsley & Elston , and was
also burned , with all its contents, including all the copies of the
Statesman of the previous week for the east and west.
The impression is pretty general that the fire was the work of in
incendiary .
BONNET CHASE ON THE PRAIRIE .
In August , 1860 , an amusing incident.came off at Centralia , which

it is proper should be recorded for the benefit of present and future
generations. . A correspondent of ove of the county papers gave the
following account at the time :
A citizen of Boone, accompanied by his wite, came to Centralia for the purpose of mak
ing purchases at one of the stores in that place. Among other articles, a large straw bon
net struck the fancy of our hero ; and, although scoop-shaped and of the balloon order, and
therefore rather out of time, buy it he would and buy it he did . Leaving the store for
· home, bonnet in hand, he encountered a lively prairie wind (for Centralia is in the midst of
a prairie), which snatched the bonnet from his grasp and blew it rapidly from him . He
started in pursuit, leaping over boxes, piles of lumber and the railroad track . But the
bonnet flew upon the wings of the wind, while our hero only flew upon a pair of short legs
and heavy brogans. On they went across the prairie, the bonnet careering over the parched
grass, our hero making it crack under his feet. Up, over, down — first in mid -air and then
on the ground — rapidly sailed the bonnet, while its pursuer bounded like a two-legged
antelope, or a boy after a butterfly . At four o'clock in the evening the bonnet and pursuer
passed Skull Lick in Audrain county , two or three miles from Centralia, the bonnet ahead
and our hero still after it, with his tongue out.
WAR TIMES .
Up to the breaking out of the civil war , the progress of the place
was very slow ; afterwards, still slower. When the war began there
were about a dozen houses , and notmore than two or three structures
of any sort went up until after the incident under the Appomattox
apple tree. The neighborhood was Southern in sentiment and the
majority of the people were disposed to act on the aggressive against
the Federals almost from the start .
Col. M.G. Singleton had a battalion in the Missouri State Guards,

in which his brother-in -law , Capt. F. B. Fullenwider , had a company .
These gentlemen were from 'near Centralia , and many of their men
were from the vicinity . Capt . G.W. Bryson , also of the neighbor-
hood , had a company of Confederates . A few men from what is now
Centralia township took service under the United States ,
Early in the war a company of Federals, belonging to the Four
teenth Illinois infantry , was stationed at Centralia a short time, and
about the same time a company of the Third Iowa infantry came in
and spread their tents on the north side of the railroad . Then after
awhile came Birge's sharpshooters. These troops made incursions
into the country to stop recruiting for Price's army, and there was
one skirmish over on Young's Creek , in Monroe county .
From time to time other troops passed through or stopped off for a
brief period . Some of the citizens were arrested and taken to St.
Louis, and released upon taking the oath . One or two of these were
residents of the hamlet at the time of Anderson's fearful raid and
inore fearful massacre , and were between hawk and buzzard . Mr.
Thos. S. Sueed was one. The guerillạs plundered him and abused
him unreasonably . They robbed his store , and then the next day
Draper's 9th Missourimilitia came in , cursed him for a " d-- d secesh ,”
and burned it ! Mr. Sneed was also proprietor of a very good hotel.
He fed hundreds of Federal soldiers free gratis ,but at last objected to
feeding the St. Charles Germau Home Guards, who had been put on
the trains as guards after the Centralia massacre. These train guardis
would jump from the cars as soon as they stopped for dinner , which
they did regularly , and rush to the tables , crowding out the passen
gers, who would be compelled to leave without eating. A few days
after Anderson's raid , Sneed refused to longer keep open house for
the St. Charles Germans, and in open day they burned up his hotel .
Hon . J. S. Rollins put out the fire after it started and tried to save
the building , but the Teutons soon rekindled the flame and then stood
by with presented muskets, daring him to try to subdue the flames
again . The officer in command observed the whole proceeding, pla
cidly smoking his pipe in the meanwhile . Sneed secreted himself on
the same train on which were the house -burning German Federals ,
and went to St. Louis , where he remained till the war was over . He
now resides in Centralia .
Of course, the most remarkable event during the war was the mas
sacre and battle of Centralia , an elaborate account of which is given

in this history . Much of the information there detailed was obtained
from Dr. A. F. Sneed , Thos . S. Sneed , Dr. F. J. Bruton , W. R. Mc
Bride, and others who lived in the place at that time.
September 7, 1864, or a few days before the battle of Centralia ,
Capt . G. W. Bryson and his company, composed mostly of newly
recruited Confederates , captured a train on the North Missouri at the
water tank , a mile east of Centralia . On this train were forty good
horses en route for St. Louis — fine, fat and frisky - the very articles
the Confederates were greatly in need of. A few soldiers were also
on board . These were taken prisoners and carried away , despite the
remonstrances of a few timorous Southern sympathizers, who feared
that the Federals would in some way hold them responsible for the
affair , and visit them with condign punishment for the taking away of
the prisoners,whom they imagined were being carried off to be shot.
Capt . Bryson was offered hundreds of dollars if he would release the
prisoners , but he laughed at the frightened citizens, declared he did.
not intend to hurt the prisoners, and rode away. In a day or so the
prisoners were released and sent to Sturgeon , not a hair of their
heads having been harmed .
WHEN THE CRUEL WAR WAS OVER .
During the summer of 1865 the town showed signs of returning

animation , as it were . Some new store buildings went up and a num
ber of new citizens moved in . A new hotel, the - Phenix , " was
established by T. S. Sneed on the ruins of his former house , the old
“ Boone Hotel," now the present site of the “ Globe. " People were
attracted to the place from time to time, some by the beauty of its
location , some by other circumstances . The place was well known.
Bill Anderson had given it considerable free advertising , but this had
given people to attribute to it a character which it never possessed .
Because a guerilla massacre had occurred in the town, some peo
ple argued that the citizens must be guerillas themselves . The
grave wherein seventy - nine dead Federal soldiers were buried was
pointed out to every passenger , and at last a monument, erected at
>)
public expense , indicated more plainly the “ bivouac of the dead. "
The town improved slowly but surely during 1866 , and at the close
of the year evidenced no small degree of prosperity . At last the peo
ple grew tired of living " at random ,' or at hap- hazard , and decided
to organize for the general welfare, common prosperity and mutual

defence , their numbers making such a step highly desirable ; and so
came
INCORPORATION .
At the March term , 1867, of the county court , the town was incor
porated , the metes and bounds being declared to include “ all the ter
ritory embraced in the following tracts of ground : The north half of
the northwest quarter of section 15 ; the south half of the southwest
quarter of section 10 ; the south half of the north half of the south
west quarter of section 10 , in township 51, range 11, containing 200
acres , more or less.” This was the first incorporation , and under it
the following town trustees were appointed until their successors should
be duly elected and qualified : Jno. H. Fields, James H. Stephens,
Wm . L. Conevey, E. D. Hawkins and Thos. S. Sneed .
In 1868 the business portion of the town was again attacked and
destroyed by fire . Several stores , together with the greater portion
of the goods they contained , were destroyed . The loss was about
$ 25,000 , with but very little insurance . For nearly a year thereafter
there were but few improvements. The town was being built of wood ,
and the danger from fires was very great , and these circumstances de
terred many men from putting up new buildings and otherwise adding
to the prosperity of the place . However , in 1869, building was again
resumed , and the town improved slowly until in 1872 , when it was in
a more thriving and generally prosperous condition than it had ever
been before . The tide of prosperity was destined , however , to an
other check . On the night of the 22d of March , 1872 , the cry of.
“ fire ! ” again roused the people from their beds and'rang throughout
the town . Another serious conflagration visited the young city .
Five stores and Sneed's Phænix Hotel were burned to the ground .
The total loss by this fire was about $ 30,000 ; very little insurance .
The business men of Centralia now seemed as indifferent to fire as
salamanders . They lost no time in bewailing their misfortunes or re
pining at the calamities that had befallen them , but set pluckily to
work to retrieve the lost ground and restore their damaged fortunes.
This was the fourth time the town had been destroyed , but it was the
same as if it had been the first or the four -hundredth , or if it had
never been destroyed at all. Some of them among those who were
the worst scorched by the flames, began to rebuild on former sites be
fore the ashes had grown cold . The town grew apace , and two years
later had a population of nearly 500 .
Since that period the progress of Centralia has been steadily — not
rapidly , but surely — onward .
BUILDING OF THE C. & A .: RAILROAD .
The building of the Chicago and Alton railroad , which marks a new
era in the progress of Centralia , may be said to date from the final
survey made through the northern part of the county in the winter and
spring of 1878. John M.Robards, H. C. Threlkeld and P. S. Hocker
may be ranked foremost among the public-spirited citizens who did
most in favor of so beneficiat an enterprise , but the entire citizenship
lent enthusiastic support, and many of them gave material aid in the
construction of this great trunk railway. The citizens of Centralia
donated of their means and paid in cash $ 900. The following gave
each fifty dollars : W : R. McBride, W. J. Booth , P. S. Hocker , H.
C. Threlkeld , Jno. M. Robards and Geo . D. Ferris ; while W. C.
Nichols donated in property and right of way, seventy -five dollars.
The first train came to Centralia on the C. & A. in August , 187: , and
though it was no new sight to the Centralians, the Wabash having been
so long in operation , yet the additional importance which the new
road gave the town , filled them with joy , and it is said some of “ the
boys ” filled with something else in celebration of that event. The
road granted an excursion to Chicgo in September following, in which

many citizens of Centralia participated . The company have built
both a passenger and a freight depot in the northern part of town ,
through which the road runs, and Centralia now has two of the most
important roads in the West in full operation .
TOWN OFFICERS .
The present town officers are P. S. Hocker,mayor ; J. E. Stewart,

H. C. Threlkeld , F. Shryock , James W.Bay , trustees ; J. L. Paxton ,
clerk ; A. F. Sneed , treasurer ; Alber Easter , marshal. Centralia ,
since the completion of the C. & A., has grown till she had a popula
tion , by the census of 1880 , of 703 ; and her rapid growth since the
last census has been such that the present population is about 1,000.
CENTRALIA PUBLIC SCHOOL..
The erection of the first school building in the town, as well as the
pame of the first teacher , are elsewhere mentioned . The cost of the
first building was $ 250 , and its size 18 x 20 feet . The school district
(No. 1, township 51, range 11) was organized in 1860. The second
school-house was erected on block 27, donated for that purpose by M.

G. Singleton , and cost $ 1,050 . It was a one-story frame, 20 x 36 feet.
At this time about forty pupils were in attendance , and Thomas Gantt ,
T. S. Sneed and John Fields were trustees. The present building , at
two -story brick , size 27 x 51 feet, with lobby 16 x 20 feet, was erected
in 1880. Two acres on the east side of town were donated by Jas . S.
Rollins, on which the building was erected , at a cost of $ 4,500 for
house and furniture. Trustees were J. E. Stewart , P. S. Hocker
and George M.Lease . In 1880 , the number of school children in the
district was 164 , and the value of taxable wealth was $ 99,000 . In
1881, the number of school children was 317, and value of taxable
property $ 117,000. Number of children in 1882, 363, and taxable
wealth $ 154,000 . Prof. J. C. Hall, county commissioner, was prin
çipal in 1881, assisted by L. J. Hall and Miss M. Swenny and Miss
M. Holmes. Hall was elected priucipal again for 1882 , with L. J.
Hall and wife and Miss Fannie Booth as assistants .
NEWSPAPERS .
The first newspaper publication of any sort in Centralia was estab

lisbed October 16 , 1868. It was called the Southern Home Circle ,
and was issued monthly by Adam Rodeniyre. In June, 1870 , the
material of the office was moved to Sturgeon and consolidated with
that of the Sturgeon Independent, a Democratic paper, W. Z. Conne
vey and A. Rodemyre, publishers . In March , 1871 , Mr. Rodemyre
bought out Mr. Connevey and removed the material back to Centra
lia , where , on March 18 , 1871 , was issued the first number of Our
Fireside Guard , a six -column paper , published by A. Rodemyre and
J. H. Stephens. The Guard was a weekly paper , neutral in politics .
In 1872 Mr. Rodemyre became sole proprietor , and enlarged the pa
per to a seven - column sheet . In June, 1874 , the material of the office
was removed to San Bernardino, California , by Mr. Rodemyre , where
it was used by him and his partner, John Isaacs , in the publication of
a daily and weekly newspaper called the Times.
Some time in June, 1876 , Mr. W. J. Davis established a paper in
Centralia which was called the Sentinel. It was a five -column paper,
Democratic in politics . In the following November Mr. Rodemyre re
turned from California , purchased the Sentinel, and re -established the
Guard , January 7 , 1877 , which paper is still in existence , the only one
in the place . It is a folio , containing seven columns to the page, and
is neutral or independent in politics. Subscription price, $ 2 per year .
The Guard is well known throughout Central Missouri, although

making no pretensions to a general circulation . Its editor, Mr. Rode
myre , is certainly a genius with remarkable versatility of talent. He is
not only a good writer , but a first -rate artist and caricaturist . His
paper seldom appears without some pointed , humorous cartoon , and

in the past it has been thus profusely illustrated . The cuts are all
designed and engraved by Mr. Rodemyre . The paper is printed on a
power press , the sole invention and, with the exception of the cylinder ,
the sole work of Mr. R. This press is a marvel of ingenious mechan
ical construction , and , though made of various materials and by curi
ous contrivances , is a first -rate press , and does rapid and excellent
work .
KILLING OF JOSEPH J. COLLIER .
The only homicide in timeof peace in Centralia came off in October ,

1872 , resulting in the death of J. J. Collier , an old citizen of the place ,
and formerly the landlord of the Eldorado Hotel. Though a man of
many excellent qualities, Mr. Collier was addicted to drink , and when
under the influence of liquor was inclined to be rough and quarrelsome.
On the occasion referred to he was in the store of Whaley , Robards &
Threlkeld , somewhat intoxicated . In a half sportive mood , but rather
roughly , he slapped a young fellow named Smith , a painter , and han
dled him a little violently . Another young man named James McDow
ell, who was standing by , said to Collier : “ If you would do that to
me, you would have me to lick.” Collier turned , and with some ex
pressions of contempt and anger, caught McDowell by the neck and
shook him with extreme violence . A scuffle ensued , during which
McDowell whipped out a knife and stabbed Collier so severely that
he died in a short time. McDowell was arrested and released on
preliminary examination . He was never indicted . Collier's death
occurred October 28 , 1872 .
SECRET ORDERS - FREE MASONS .
The Centralia Lodge , No. 59, of the A. F. and A.M., was organ
ized in 1866 , the dispensation bearing date of August 8 , of that year.
The first officers were S. J. Bush , W. M .; D. B. Roberts , S. W .; R.
;
P. Roberts , J. W .; J. G. Bruton , S. D. ; F. M. Roberts , J. D .; W.

K. Sturgeon , secretary ; C. C. Bush , treasurer ; M. V. Baker, tyler.
They received their charter October 19 , 1867. In March , 1877, they
had the misfortune to lose their lodge room and furniture by fire ,
though they were fortunate enough to save the records and charter .
HISTORY OF BOONE COUNTY , 705
At this writing (August , 1882) the lodge is in a flourishing condition ,

and owns a lodge room 24 by 60 feet, furnished complete with best
jewels , carpets , charts, etc., valued at $ 1,000 . The total present
membership is seventy , with the following officers : W. H. Carpenter,
W. M .; James M. Angell, S. W .; J. W. Bryson , J. W .; R. D. Poag ,
treasurer ; A. Rodemyre, secretary ; H. C. Threlkeld , S. D .; S. N.
Bryson, J. D., and Thomas J. Roberts , tyler .
ANCIENT ORDER OF UNITED WORKMEN .
Lodge No. 199 , at Centralia , was instituted by Deputy Grand Mas

ter Workman 0. J. Miller, of Rocheport, the dispensation being dated
August 4 , 1880 , and the charter dated the same. The names of char
ter members are J. M. Angell, Jerry Bush , J. W. Bay , H. S. Batter
ton, L. D. Burch , J. R. Flynn , E. H. Farrar , W. B. DeJarnette , J.
E. Mitchell, A. D. Rumans, W. A. McAllister , T. K. Wallace , F. M.
Traughber , H. C. Threlkeld , D. T. Hubbard , G. M. Lease , Josiah
Hall, W. D. Law horne, M. T. Jones, J. S. Hannah , W. J. Booth and
W. R. McBride. The names and rank of the first officers are the fol
lowing : J. S. Hannah , M. W .; W. J. Booth , P.M. W .; E. H. Far
rar , recorder ; H. C. Threlkeld , overseer ; J. M. Angell, G. F .; W.
A. McAllister, financier ; G.M. Lease , recorder ; F. M. Traughber,
guide ; T. K. Wallace, J. W .; A. D. Rumans , O. W. The present
officers of the lodge are E. H. Farrar , W. A.McAllister, J. C. Hall,
C.W.Head , A. D. Rumans, C. E. Chance, W.J. Booth , S. Shryock ,
J. Bush and J.Hayden , who respectively fill the above indicated offices .
None of them are reported as grand lodge officers. The membership
at present is fifty - four in number . They have a frame hall, built in
1872 , which cost five hundred dollars.
CENTRALIA LODGE NO . 2679, K. OF H.
This lodge of Knights of Honor was instituted by R. H. Robbins,

the date of dispensation being February 14 , 1882. The charter mem
bers were W.M. Robinson , W. H. Baldridge, J. W. Simco , Edgar
Chamberlain , J. W.McCallister , Peter Picket , Geo . H. Crouson , W.
H. Simco , J. H. Brown , C. E. Chance , W. N. White , James K.
Northcutt, D. H. Glore , Wm . Patten , R. H. Wilbite , J. W. Hucker ,
C. W. Adams, W. A. Gooch , J. H. White, Dan . Davis , B. White , J.
A. Thomas and J. H. Head . The first officers were W. A. McCallis
ter , D .; J. H. Head , P. D .; D. H.Glore, A. D .; Win . Patten , V.
D .; C. E. Chance, — ; Edgar Chamberlain , C .; Jas. K. North
45
cutt, F. R .; W. H. Baldridge, S .; W. Simco , G .; R. Wilhite , G .;

J. W. Hocker , R. The present officers are the same as those first
chosen , except that D. H. Davis is chaplain in place of Chamberlain ,
resigned . J. H. Head is, up to this time, the only grand lodge
officer , and the present membership numbers seventy -five.
GOOD TEMPLARS .
The lodge of Good Templars at Centralia was organized January

12, 1874. The charter members were Miss Mattie Atkins, Isaiah
Harper , Geo . T. Ray, T. S. Larkin , D. D. Conger , W. H. Kincaid ,
J. B. Cave, Ed . Chamberlain , Geo . L. Truitt, Thos. West, Miss Eva
Chamberlain , T. J. Bennett, Samuel Bennett, Miss Lizzie Phelps,
Miss Lillie Lofland, Wm . Conger, Sr., and A. J. Bush . The first
officers were the following : T. S. Sneed , W. C .; Julia West , W. V .;
J. B. Lofland , W.Sec.; Miss Lizzie Sneed , Asst . Sec . ; Wm . Conger ,
W. Chap . ; T. J. Roberts , W.G. L. D. ; Isham Boulware , W. M .;
Miss Lillie Brown , D. M .; Leslie Farris , O. G .; Mrs. T. S. Sneed ,
R. H. S.; Mrs. Eliza Truitt , L. H. S.
CHURCHES METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH ( SOUTH ) .
The Centralia M. E. church , South , was organized in 1868 , with the

following original members ; Robert Cook , R. F. Edwards and wife ,
Mary Edwards ; Newton Russell and wife, Celia Russell ; A. Cook ,
Druzilla Cook , Elbert Givens and wife , Sarah Givens. The first
church house erected was the same they are now using, and was built
in 1870–71, and is a frame structure which cost about $ 1,500. It
was dedicated in September , 1871, by Dr. John D. Vincil. The
pastors that have presided over this flock are the Reverends DeMoss ,
Rich , Sutton, Metcalf, Graves, Rooker , Salvage , Root and Robert
White, the latter being the present minister in charge. The present
membership numbers sixty -five , and the church is reported in fine
working condition .
METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH .
This congregation has, as yet, no place of worship of their own ,

but use the church belonging to the M. E. church South . The
church was organized by A. J. Dill, in 1871, the original members
being J. V. Farris and wife , H. Booth and wife, Buly and wife ,
and J. B. Alison and wife . The following are the names of pastors
that have served the congregation since the organization : W. T.
Freeland, J. Gillies, H. B. Seely , J. W. Anderson , N. Shumate and

T. J. Enyeart , who is the present pastor serving his first year . The
present membership numbers forty -seven . Up to the spring of 1882
this denomination have never had a dollar invested in church property
in Boone county . They now own a parsonage at Centralia , built in
the spring, which cost $ 600 . Though the success of this denomina
tion has not as yet been great in this county , they think their pros
pects for the future better than they have been in the past .
BAPTIST CHURCH .
The Centralia Baptist church was organized April 17th , 1871, with
the following as originalmembers : T. S. Sneed , Susan S. Sneed , A.
F. Sneed , L. H. Sneed , Lizzie Sneed , Maggie Sneed , Amanda Pogue
( or Poage ) , Patsy Keen , Sarah Martin , M. E. Holmes, Ed. Silver,
Nancy Silver , J. Chapel, Annie Chapel, Mollie Snow , M.K. Lofland
( or Loughland ) , M. Conger ; A. M. Conger , Elinder Silver . The
organization at Centralia have heretofore had no church of their own ,
but have worshipped in the churches of other denominations. They
are now ( 1882) building a church house , an elegant frame structure
which will soon be completed , and will cost about $ 2,500 . The pres
ent membership is sixty -three in number, and E. D. Isbell is the
pastor in charge .
CHRISTIAN CHURCH .
The Christian church was organized in Centralia under the auspices

of Eld . James A. Berry, the 17th of October , 1867, with the follow
ing members, viz .: James M. West , Elizabeth West, George W.
Kimbrough , Katurah Kimbrough , F. J. Bruton , Nettie Bruton , P. S.
Hocker, Emma Hocker, J. H. Forbis, Mary Forbis, J. J. Collier ,
Hannah Collier , Francis Collier , Rebecca G. Jackson , Emily F.
Baker , James Phelps, Judah Phelps, Margaret Hull , Susan Carpenter ,
Emma Givens, Ellen Holmes . Pledging themselves to one another to
take the Bible and the Bible alone as their guide and rule of faith and
practice , giving themselves to the Lord and each other , asking God's
richest blessings upon them in all time to come, the congregation met
in the school-house and worshipped there at intervals until the fall of
1871. The congregation had its trials and difficulties to maintain
itself. But in the year 1869 S. W.Early and James D. Wyatt and
their families moved into Centralia and immediately united with the
little church , which imparted new life and zeal into the organization .
In June, 1869 , by the aid of Eld . John D. White , who long since has
gone to his reward , the congregation was re-organized by appointing

F. M. Roberts and James D. Wyatt, Elders , and S. W. Early and
Jesse Prewett , deacons. The above officers were , on the first Mon
day in September following , properly ordained by Eld . D. M.Grand
field . In the year 1871 they built a nice frame church , 38x50 , located
about the center of the town, on three lots, 40 each by 120, making
the grounds a square . These lots were generously donated to the
church by the Hon . Jas. S. Rollins. The church house is a plain
building, yet nicely finished both inside and out ; the grounds are
enclosed and an abundance of shrubbery and nice shade trees have
been planted in the grounds , and with its bluegrass lawns , is an
inviting place. The building and fixtures cost about $ 2,500, and ,
it is stated , is now entirely free from incumbrance. The organiza
tion has lost many of its original members by death and removals ,
and in the past dissensions and discord were the unfortunate fate of it,
sown in their midst by designing and disreputable preachers, but by
the prudent and untiring vigilance of the officers, these troubles were
overcome, and the church now numbers 130 of as influential citizens
as are in Boone county , thoroughly united and in perfect harmony,

and under the management of its eldership and G. A. Hoffman , their
present pastor , sways an immense moral influence in that community .
They have, if not the best , one of the best Sunday schools in the
State , Prof. J. C. Hall, superiutendent . This church has been min
istered to by some very eminent men — such as Eld . T. P. Haley,
formerly of St. Louis ; Eld . Benj. Franklin , of Cincinnati ; L. B.
Wilks, T. M. Allen , William Ridgway, J. H. Hardin , F. W. Allen ,
0. A. Carr , D. M. Grandfield and others. Eld . James Berry was
the only regular pastor they had from 1867 up to 1875 . D. M.
Grandfield has labored with them in several very successful protracted

meetings in the years past. James D. Wyatt, S.W.Early J. G. Bruton
and J. H. Forbis are the present eldership , J. D. Wyatt having held
the same position , except for a short interval, since 1869. Dr. Jas .
Wallace , John T. Mitchell, W.H. White , James H. Silver and John
A. Chance are the present board of deacons. From the zeal and
faithfulness of a few men and women the church has grown from
twenty-one members, all women except seven , to be a large and influ
ential congregation , now one of the best working congregations in the
county. But few of the members appear to be wealthy, yet a more
liberal church is hard to find . They are paying their pastor $ 400 for
half of his time, and give largely of their means to the various auxil
iary societies of the church generally and remember their poor and
unfortunate by their benevolence .
BIOGRAPHIES.
JAMES M. ANGELL .
James M.Angell is the son of Robert Angell, a native of Kentucky .

He was born in Boone county , Missouri, February 11 , 1833 . His
father came to Missouri in 1825 , and settled in this county . His
wife's maiden naine was Martha Perkins . They had thirteen chil
dren . James M. was educated at the old -time log school house ,
his first teacher being John M. McGhee . He settled in Centralia
township in 1867, where he purchased 700 acres of rich prairie
land. He is now largely engaged in farming and stock raising.
He was elected a justice of the peace in 1878 , which office he still
holds . Has served as director of his district school since 1867 ,
and was one of the building committee in erecting their new
school house . Was married , September 10 , 1857, to Miss Han
nah , daughter of Absalom Fountain . They have two sons and
three daughters . Their names are Martha , Lucy E., Mary E.,
Redford M., and John M. Redford and Martha are dead . He has
devoted much time and care to the education of his children . His
daughter , Lucy E., is the wife of Frederick S. Sappington , of
Boone county . Mr. Angell has tried one hundred and twenty - five
cases , none of which have ever been reversed by the circuit court.
Has married about thirty couples, and acknowledged over forty deeds.
In the discharge of official duty , no magistrate perhaps in the county
has given better satisfaction . Mr. and Mrs. Angell are both members
of the Methodist church South .
ANTHONY & BRO .
George and Lewis Anthony are the sons of Thomas J. Anthony and
were born in Morgan county , Missouri, George in 1850, Lewis in
1852. They were brought up on the farm , but each of the brothers
has a good business education . Lewis was a farmer and stock trader
until 1876 , when he went into the grocery trade at Centralia where
he continued with his brother until they went into the livery business .
Their mother's maiden name was Cassandra Sutton . There were four
teen children , seven of each sex . Thomas Anthony and his wife were
natives of Kentucky. The firm of Anthony & Brother was established

in 1878 .
JAMES W. BAY .
James W. Bay , at present telegraph operator and ticketand express

agent at Centralia , Missouri, was born in Cumberland , Guernsey coun
ty, Ohio , August 13th , 1848. His father, Maj. James T. Bay, was
an officer in the United States army. The grandfather, on mother's
side , was of German origin ; his name was Andrew Kells . On the
paternal side, the family is of Scotch -Irish extraction . The maternal
grandfather served in the war of 1812. Young Bay was educated at
the common schools of Ohio , leaving his native State for Missouri ,
in 1860. From 1862 to 1865 he was in the United States service as
military telegraph reporter . Since then has been constantly in the
business . For four months after the war , was in the service of the
Ohio and Mississippi Railroad company ; then in the service of the
Missouri Pacific , from 1866 to 1875 ; then one year with the Iron
Mountain Road ; then to Ferguson Junction , and from there to Cen
tralia , in the fall of 1876 , at which post he has remained ever since .
Mr. Bay married Miss Mary R. Bell, daughter of G.L. Bell, a mem
ber of the Tennessee family of that name, Mrs. Bay being a grand
daughter of John Bell, who was a candidate for president in 1860.
They have two children . Mr. Bay is a member of A. F. and A. M.,
also of the A. O. U. W. He is a steady, energetic business man ,
prompt and zealous in the discharge of duty , and thoroughly conver
sant with the business intrusted to his care .
THOMAS HARRIS BARNES .
Thomas Harris Barnes is the son of Thomas H. Barnes , of Madison

county , Kentucky, where he was born January 8 , 1860 . His mother
was Ann Wingfield , a native of Virginia . The father of Thomas died
when his son was but three years old . He had served his native
county in the capacity of county court clerk . He was a member of
the Christian church . Mrs. Harris removed to Missouri with her
family of six childreu in the fall of 1866, settling three miles west of
Centralia , where she remained until her death . Thomas H. prepared
himself for teaching in the public schools. He followed his profession
until 1882, when he formed a partnership with R. H. Wilhite in the
boot and shoe trade. They have a good business, with flattering pros
pects for the future. Mr. Harris is a member of the Good Templar
lodge at Centralia .
DURRETT H. BARNES .
John Barnes , the father of Durrett , was a citizen of this county

while it was yet the abode of wild Indians. The only means of safety
was the rude forts constructed by the early pioneers , in which they
took refuge when the Indians were on the war- path . John Barnes
came to Howard county in 1808 with his father , Shadrach Barnes.
They forted for several years near Old Franklin . Johu was one of a
family of twelve children , eight sons,and four daughters, all of whom
lived to have families . Durrett Barnes was born in Boone county ,
September 13 , 1822 . His opportunities for obtaining an education
were very limited . His first teacher was Overton Harris, who taught
in a little log cabin with puncheon floor . The boys attended this
school clad in the simplest style that could be imagined , their entire
wardrobes consisting of but a single garment made from the lint of
flax , grown on the farm and manufactured at home by industrious
mothers and daughters who knew nothing of the luxuries and vanities
of civilization , and cared less . The subject of this sketch was married
to Miss Caroline E., daughter of Philip Lyle, a native of New
York . They had children,, six
eight children sons and two daughters .
six sons
Their names are Ellen F., Thomas T., Philip , Filmore , Dora A.,
Robert D., William H., and John . There are but five of the number
living. During the war ,Mr. Barnes entered the Confederate service
under Colonel Joe Porter , and was taken prisoner and kept at Alton ,
Illinois , until 1864 , when he was released and allowed to return home.
His first wife having died , he was married the second time to Lavinia
Kanatzar, nee Roberts , in 1869. He is now living on a farm of 240
acres in Centralia township .
PETER J. BARRON
was born in the city of St. Louis, Missouri, September 12 , 1847,

where he continued to reside till he was 18 years old . His parents
were Thomas and Lucy (nee Smith ) Barron , and they lived for several
years in St. Louis, where Peter obtained his education in the public
schools. At 12 years old , he went to clerking in a store, remaining
for six years in that employment. He then went to Baxter Springs ,
Kansas , and engaged in the grocery business for two years. After
this he located at Crawfordsville , same State , and went into the general
merchandise business, and was at the same time authorized by govern
ment to trade with the Indians . In 1876 , he returned to St. Louis
aud engaged for two years in the grocery business, at the expiration
of which he came to Columbia and went into business in the firm of
White , Barron and Co., the history of which firm is given in the
sketch of W. N. White . Mr. Barron is a thorough-going business
man . He belongs to the Knights of Honor and Knights of Pythias ,
and is a gentleman highly esteemed in both social and business circles .
He was married in 1874 , to Miss Susie Gooch , of Shelby county , Mis
souri, daughter of William Gooch , a prominent citizen of that county .
Mr. and Mrs. Barron have four children , named John , Paul, Charles
and Annie .
DR . F. J. BRUTON .
Dr. Francis Jackson Bruton was born ' in Montgomery county ,

Kentucky, February 8th , 1830 . Was educated at the common
schools and at Prospect Hill college. His father , James Bruton,
was a farmer and stock raiser. They came to Boone county in 1853.
The country about Centralia was then very sparsely settled . The
subject of this sketch remembers having killed wild deer upon what
now constitutes a portion of the town of Centralia . Dr. Bruton
farmed until 1866 , when he moved to Centralia . In 1871 he gradu
ated at the St. Louis Medical College, having previously read medi
cine for two years . He was married , July 14th , 1852, to Miss Hen
rietta Fenwyck , of Bath county , Kentucky . They have four children .
Has one daughter now the wife of Robert B. Singleton , of St. Louis.
Has one son , Frank E., in business at Sturgeon . During the civil war ,
Dr. Bruton remained at home. Took no part in the strife , but was
arrested by Merrill's Horse and kept several days on account of his
sympathy for the South . He was drafted about the close of the war,
but did no service . Was on the ground after the Centralia fight and
helped to dispose of the dead , as will be seen by reading the account of
the massacre which appears in this volume. Dr. Bruton is a Mason .
He and his wife are both members of the Christian church .
CHRISTOPHER C. BUSH .
Christopher C. Bush is a native of Kentucky, where he was born ,

October 25th , 1823. He is the son of T. V. Bush , a farmer , and was
reared and educated in the same line of business. His father lived to
the age of seventy -three , and is entitled to the distinction of having

invented the first corn planter ever patented in the United States .
The subject of this sketch came to Missouri in the spring of 1855, and
settled in Boone county , where he has continuously resided ever since .
-
He has always followed farming . Married Miss Sarah A., daughter

of Nelson Bush . Four sons and six daughters were born of this mar
riage. The first wife dying, Mr. Bush was again married , the second
wife being Miss Perlina, daughter of James C. Jennings . He has been
a member of the Christian church ever since he was thirteen years old .
JOHN A. CHANCE .
John A. Chance was born in Missouri, but went with his parents to
Illinois when a child . This was in 1847 . He came back to Missouri
in 1865 and engaged in farming until 1881 when he purchased a con

trolling interest in the hardware store of Thomas Sexton , Centralia .
His brother, C. E. Chance , is now his partner in business , the firm
being Chance Brothers. He was married in 1873 to Miss Addie ,
daughter of Solomon Sexton . They have two children . Mr Chance
is an official member of the Christian church . The firm of Chance
Brothers is well established and justly popular with the people
of Centralia and vicinity .
GARRISON H. CHANCE .
Garrison H. Chance was born in Delaware , March 20 , 1823. He is

the son of Thomas Chance , a native of New Jersey. He is of Welsh
origin on the father's side. His maternal ancestors were English . In
1827 Thomas Chance emigrated to Ohio , where he remained six years .
In 1833 he removed to Illinois . In 1840 the subject of this sketch
came to Boone county , Missouri, where he married Miss Martha A.,
daughter of John Roberts . There were six sons and two daughters
by this marriage . The first wife dying, he married Miss Lurinda ,
daughter of Inyard Winscot. They have three sons by this inarriage.
Mr. Chance has a large farm well improved . He raises a variety of
produce . Has a fine orchard and apiary . He is a member of the
Christian church , and contributes liberally to the support of the gos
pel. Though hardly sixty years ofage , he has twelve grand children .
WILLIAM W. CONGER .
William Wallace Conger was born in Oswego county , New York ,

January 7 , 1840. His father was a miller and he was brought up to
the same business . Attended school at Phoenix , his native town . In
1858 he came with his father to Audrain county , Missouri, and set
tled on a farın where he remained for eight years. In 1873 he came
to Centralia and entered the firm of Conger Brothers , proprietors of

the Centralia mills, of which firm he is still a member . In 1861 he

acted as scout for Federal troops, being with the 3d Iowa regiment.
March 25 , 1862, enlisted in Captain H. N. Cook's company, Guitar's
regiment, in which he served for three years and one month . Was
third sergeant of his company and followed the fortunes of his regi .
ment in ' all the raids, marches and battles in which it was engaged .
Was at Moore's Mills, Kirksville , Brown's Springs , and other skir
mishes of less note. Was never wounded or captured . Mr. Conger
was married March 17 , 1864, to Miss Angeline M. Hunt , ofMonroe
county . They have eight living children . Their wames are William
E., Henry M., Clarence H., Harriet N., Bessie , Alice L., Ann Bar
bara , Clyde W., and one dead - Addie . Mr. and Mrs. Conger are
members of the Methodist Episcopal church . Mr. Conger is also a
Mason .
JAMES R. BRYSON .
The Bryson family are of Irish origin , the great- grandfather of

the subject of this sketch having emigrated to this country from
Ireland in an early day on account. of religious persecution . He was
the father of Andrew , a native of Kentucky, who was the father of
Solomon , also born and raised in Kentucky. James R., son of Sol
omon Bryson , was born in Madison county , Kentucky, May 30th ,
1826 , and came with his parents to Howard county , Missouri in 1829 .
They remained in Howard county for ten years, when they removed
to a farm near Centralia , where the elder Bryson died soon after the
He was
war . James was one of eight children , four of each sex .
educated at an old log school house, where the benches were con
structed from the trunks of trees split in the middle , each half form
ing a bench , and each bench proving a seat of torture to the children
doomed to sit with their feet dangling in space , with no rest for the
arms or back . The primitive school house is never forgotten by those
who experienced the tortures inflicted upon mind and body within its
dark , rude walls . Mr. Bryson married Miss Nancy , daughter of
Isaac Stone . They have had eight children , seven of whom are now
living. During the civil war Mr. Bryson took sides with the South .
He joined the Confederate army in 1862 and served until the close of
the war . He was in several battles, but escaped without injury . Two
of his brothers were captured and killed by Federal soldiers. Another
brother was wounded at Wilson Creek . Mr. Bryson was quarter
master during most of the war . He has always voted the Democratic
ticket. He owns about 600 acres of fine land well improved. It was
one of the first places settled in his neighborhood . He is a member

of the A. F. and A. M.
SAMUEL W. EARLY .
Mr. Early is a native of West Virginia , born in Monroe county ,

September 26th , 1835 . He is a son of Andrew C. and Elizabeth
( Nickell ) Early , who were both natives of the “ Old Dominion . " In
the year 1842 his parents removed to Callaway county , Mo., where he
grew to manhood, being engaged on his father's farm the greater por
tion of his time, and attending the subscription schools of his neigh
borhood when opportunity offered . In 1855 Mr. Early removed to
Audrain county , where he followed farming until 1863, when he located
in Mexico , and afterward engaged in merchandising. By the great
fire of March , 1872, Mr. Early was damaged to the extent of several
thousands of dollars . He has since been engaged in the insurance and
real estate business . During the last two years he has sold over 300 ,
000 acres of land . ( ? ) Mr. Early was the leading merchant of the
place when he was in business , although he started in trade with a
very small capital. August 26th , 1857,Mr. Early married Miss Ruth
E. Leach , a daughter of Wm . Leach , Esq ., of Audrain county , one of
the early settlers of that county . They have had born to them twelve
children , nine of whom are living, viz .: Josephine E., Annie P.,
Charles H., Ella , Sallie A., Florence , Henrietta , William W. and
Francis M. Mr. Early has been a member of the Christian church
since 1855 , and an elder for ten years . He has been a member of the
Masonic order for about twenty -five years . He has been one of the
town trustees for about seven years, and a justice of the peace for ten
years. During the period that he was a justice of the peace he had
but three of his decisions reversed by higher courts.
FISHER ELLIOTT .
The subject of this sketch is the son of Hiram Elliott , of Boyle

county , Kentucky,where he was born December 30th , 1846. Hewas
the youngest of five children . He was principally raised in Boone
county ,Missouri. He married Miss Fannie Bryson , daughter of Solo
mon Bryson. They have two sons and two daughters . Mr. Elliott
is now living on a small farm , which he owns , one- half mile from Cen
tralia . He is a member of the Missionary Baptist church .
JAMES H. FORBIS .
James H. Forbis , farmer, came to Centralia township in 1865.

When he moved to the neighborhood the prairie grass was growing as

high as a man's head where the town now stands. He was born in
Henry county , Kentucky, June 6th , 1833. He is the son and grand
son of the Forbises , pioneers of Kentucky . James was one of
eight children . He was brought up on the farm . Served an appren
ticeship at the carpenter's trade in Louisville. After completing his
trade he went to Mississippi where he remained for about three years .
Hecame to Missouri in 1857, settling first in Callaway county , re
moving next to Monroe county , where he was married , June 6th , 1860,
to Miss Elizabeth , daughter of Wilson Enochs. One daughter and
four sons were born of this marriage . Mrs. Forbis dying, he married
Miss Mary , daughter of Thomas Welch , of Mouroe county . They
have one daughter (Eliza ) by this marriage . Mr. Forbis settled pres
ent place , one and one-fourth miles southwest of Centralia , in 1865 .
He is an officialmember of the Christian church .
WILLIAM H. GARRETT .
William H. Garrett was born July 14th , 1855. He is the son of

James Garrett , a hardware merchant of Mexico , Missouri. His
grandfather , Richard Garrett , a native of Kentucky, is now a citizen

of Schuyler county , Missouri. William H. was the eldest of seven
children . ' He was educated in Mexico , where he was apprenticed to
the hardware business . Was married to Miss Rosa , daughter of
T. S. Sneed . Mrs. Garrett was the first living child born in Centralia .
They have one child , Nina. Mr. Garrett is an exemplary member of
the Christian church . He moved to Centralia in 1881, previously
selling out his business at Vandalia , Missouri. He purchased an in
terest in the hardware store of Mr. E. Thurston , and, July 11th ,
1882, they bought the furniture store of J. M.Hawkins. The firm of
Garrett & Thurston is a reliable , prosperous house . Both men are
practical workmen in their line of business .
TURNER S. GORDON .
Turner S. Gordon , proprietor of the Centralia brick kiln , was

born in Boone county , Missouri, April 26th , 1848. He is the son of
William J. Gordon, for many years one of the proprietors of an ex
tensive wagon , plow and repair shop at Columbia , Missouri, which
did a large business in the manufacture of agricultural implements
and general repairing. The blacksmithing was under the supervision
of Mr. Gordon , while the woodwork was made the specialty of his
partner , Mr. Anderson . They used slave labor principally , and when
the negroes were set free by the war, Mr. Gordon left the shop and
engaged in the livery business, which he followed up to his death ,
in 1872. George W. Gordon , grandfather of Turner, came to Boone
county about fifty -two years ago . Hewas of Scotch - Irish origin . The
subject of this sketch was educated at the Missouri State University .
In 1868 he married Miss Leona, daughter of Gen. Bolton . Her
parents having died wben she was a small child , she was brought up
in the home of her uncle , Gen. Thomas L. Price , of Jefferson City .
She was educated at the Moravian Female College , in Pennsylvania .
They have two sons living and one dead. In 1877 Mr. Gordon em
barked in the brick -making business, which he has followed ever
since . He moved to Mexico in 1881, where bis family now reside.
Purchased his present business, with land attached , in March , 1882 .
Mr. Gordon is a member of the Christian church .
PROF . JAMES C. HALL .
James Clinton Hall, commissioner of public schools , was born in

Bourbon township , Boone county , September 20th , 1848. He was
partly educated at the common schools, completing his education at
McGhee college. After leaving college he spent several years on a
farm . Having been employed to teach the Hallsville district school, he
was retained by the directors , serving that district for seven years . He
was then employed to teach at Columbia , serving as principal of the
public school for four years . He went to Centralia in 1881, and took
charge of the public school at that place , which position he still holds.
In 1875 was elected school commissioner , and has held tbe office
ever since , except in 1877 and 1878. He was married March 18th ,
1878 , to Geneva Pollard , daughter of James P. Pollard , of Hallsville .
Mr. and Mrs. Hall are members of the Christian church . He is a
member of the K. P. lodge at Columbia and A. O. U. W. of Centralia .
He was secretary of Boone County Teachers' Institute from 1871 to
about 1875 , and has been president ever since . Prof. Hall is an able ,
earnest, conscientious teacher , thoroughly devoted to his calling , and
ever zealous in promoting the cause of popular education .
ALFRED HEAD , M. D.
This gentleman is a native of Sumner county , Tennessee , born

October 17th , 1815. His parents , Henry and Elizabeth Head , were
both natives of Virginia . Dr. Head grew to manhood in the county
of his birth , and received his non - professional education at the Rural
Academy of Sumner county . His professional course was taken at
the.Nashville Medical University , and he began the practice in Benton
county , Missouri, in 1843. He continued there till 1863, with the ex
ception of about three or four years, from 1850 till 1854 ,which he spent
in California . In 1863 hemoved to Millersburg , Callaway county , Mis
souri, where he practiced medicine till 1881, his two sons being asso
ciated with him , and doing a leading practice in that county . In the
last mentioned year , Doctors Head located at Centralia , Boone county ,
Missouri, and are at this early succeeding date ( 1882 ) rapidly building
a good practice . Dr. Head was married , in 1836 , to Miss Rhoda L.
Vincent , daughter of James and Clara Vincent, of Sumner county,
Tennessee. There are five children of this marriage, Catharine A.,
Luvenia B., James H., Clara E. and Charles W. Dr. Head has been
a Mason for over 17 years, and is in everything a worthy citizen and
substantial man .
CHARLES W. HEAD , M. D.,
Is a son of Dr. Alfred Head , of Centralia , and was born in Benton

county , Missouri, January the 30th , 1855. His education was received
in this State , the elementary part being acquired in the common .
schools of his native county . His literary and academic course was
taken atthe Uviversity of Missouri in Columbia , and his professional
course , at the Missouri Medical College , of St. Louis. He attended the
latter institution in the years 1875 , 1876 and 1877, graduating therefrom
in the latter year. The same year he embarked in the practice of
his noble profession with his father at Millersburg , Missouri, continu
ing there till 1881, when they located at Centralja in this county ,
where they are now in the practice . Dr. Head has been a hard stu
dent, and labors faithfully to keep up in all the new developments of
medical science . Young in years and highly educated , both profes
sionally and generally , there is before him every prospect of a success
ful future .
JOHN EDWARD HINMAN .
John Edward Hinman is the eldest son of Gen.William A. Hinman ,

and was born in Jacksonville , Ilinois , November 16th , 1843. The
family traces its origin back to the Pilgrim Fathers . Maj. Benjamin
Hinman , the grandfather of John Edward , was the son of Deacon
David , who was son of Benjamin , Jr., and grandson of Benjamin , Sr.,
and great grandson of Edward Hinman . He married Anna Keyser,
daughter of Captain John Keyser , a soldier of the revolution . The
-
--
following children were born of this marriage : John Edward , Benja

min , Jr., Col. John J. and General William A., the father of the sub
ject of this sketch , who was born July 11th , 1802. Col. John E.
Hinman received his title in 1821, when he was elected lieutenant
colonel of the 134th regiment of New York militia . He held various
other offices of trust and honor , and to the entire satisfaction of his
constituents. He married Mary , daughter of G. C. Schroppel, of
New York , and now resides in Utica . He has no children . Col.
John J. married Huldah M. Sturtevant . He was a lawyer for sev
eral years , but subsequently followed milling and merchandising.

He had five children , all of whom are dead . He died in 1849. Capt.
Benjamin , Jr., was a magistrate and captain of a company. He was
never married . Maranda died in her twelfth year . Annis married
Dr. Thomas Monroe, in Maryland. They have five children . They are
now living at Rushville , Illinois, where the doctor is practicing his
profession . Gen. William A. Hinman , the father of John Edward ,
was educated for the law and was admitted to practice at the bar in
Utica , New York . In 1832 he visited Illinois, and , being charmed
with the country , removed to Rushville , where he dealt largely in
real estate . He also served as surveyor- general of Illinois for sey
eral years and became quite familiar with the geography of the State .
He served as a general in the Blackhawk war of 1832. He was mar

ried , February 4th , 1843, to Miss Grace A. Kingsbury , daughter of
an Episcopal minister . Two sons were born of this marriage, John
E. and Edward M. C. The latter was born April 10th , 1847. He
married Miss Josephine Long, daughter of Capt . Long, of the United
States army. He was in government service until his death , in 1870 .
He left no children . His widow resides at Lewiston , Illinois . John
E. was educated in St. Louis and at Rushville and Jacksonville ,
Illinois. He is a farmer and stock -raiser . He married Miss Sarah ,
daughter of Dr. J. C. Bywater, of Auburn , New York . They had one

child , Grace , born January 6th , 1867. The first wife dying in 1877,
he wasmarried to Miss Flora , daughter of Rev. William E. Johnson ,
of Canada. They have one child , Edward Willie , born Angust 13th ,
1878. Mr. Hinman came to Boone county in 1869, in company with
his father , and settled at Centralia when less than a dozen buildings
constituted the entire town . He purchased 400 acres of land north
of and in close proximity to the village . At first he kept a hay press.
He is now engaged in farming and stock -raising. He keeps some
well -bred horses . In politics he is a Democrat. He is a member of
the Episcopalian church , and a member of the Knights of Pythias

and Ancient Order United Workmen .
PHILIP S. HOCKER .
This gentleman is a son of John and Elizabeth ( Tankersley )

Hocker , both of whom were natives of Lincoln county , Kentucky, and
moved to Monroe county , Missouri, in 1830 . In the latter county
the subject of this sketch was born November 1st 1832. Dr. Hocker
was reared on a farm , acquiring his rudimentary education in the com
mon schools At the age of sixteen he set in to learn the carpenter's
trade, and also learned cabinet-making . In 1852 he moved to Mc
Kinney , Collin county , Texas , where he resided fourteen years, en
gaged in the manufacture of furniture. When the civil war came on,
Dr. H. enlisted , in 1861, in Col. Stone's regiment of Texas vol
unteers, and gave his services to the cause of the Confederacy .
In the winter of 1862 he returned homeand assisted in recruiting a
company for Col. Alexander's regiment. Hocker was commissioned
second lieutenant, and was the officer sent by Gen. Pike from Ft. Gib
son, soon after the battle of Pea Ridge , under a flag of truce , to
Gen. Curtis, to adjust the difficulties concerning the “ scalping ”
done by the Indian allies of both Federals and Confederates .
He withdrew from Alexander's regiment in 1863 , and was ap
pointed hospital steward in Col. L. M. Martin's regiment, which
position he held till the close of the war. In 1866 he returned to
Missouri and settled in Centralia , Boone county , engaging in the
furniture business. In 1867 he moved to Middle Grove, Monroe
county , and engaged in the drug business till 1871. He then moved
back to Centralia , where he continued in the drug business till 1881,

when he embarked in the real estate business, in which he is still en
gaged . Dr. H. has been three times elected mayor of Centralia , and is
honoring that position at the time of this writing. In 1880 he was
elected a member of the Centralia school board , and it is chiefly
due to his efforts that that city is to -day blessed with an elegant
public school building . Dr. H. has been three times married . His
first wife was Loumira E. Wilkerson, daughter of Milton and Jane
Wilkerson , of Florida , Monroe county , Missouri, to whom he was
married August 26 , 1852. She died in McKinney , Texas , in 1865,
having borne him one son , James W., now a druggist of Centralia .
On January 22 , 1867, he was again married to Miss A. E. Snell,
daughter of Judge Granville Snell, of Monroe county . This lady died
-
-
February 21st , 1874 , leaving three children , Charles , Walter and

Mary . Dr. Hocker was married again in 1874 , to Miss Emma, daugh
ter of Albert and Sarah Gibbons, of Boone county . Three children
have been born of this last union , Regina, Philip S. and Vesta .
He has been a Mason since 1856 , and organized the lodge at Mid
dle Grove, of which he was for two years master . Since 1852 he has
been a member of the Christian church , and is in everything an earn
est , substantial citizen . The doctor's literary attainments may be
judged from the fact that he boldly attacked the whole school of
infidel scientists , in an ably -written pamphlet entitled “ Science and
Revelation ," in which he vindicates the faith of the faithful, and
shows the necessity of a great First Cause .
AARON L. HULEN .
Aaron L. Hulen , the subject of this sketch , is the son of James

Hulen , and was born in Randolph county , Missouri, November 8th ,
1852 . He was raised on the farm and educated at the common
schools of the county . Married Miss Martha, daughter of James E.
Dry , of Monroe county , Missouri. They have one daughter. Mr.
Hulen sold his farm in Monroe county and removed to Boone in 1882,
purchasing 120 acres one inile west of Centralia , upon which he has
erected a broom factory . He has considerable experience in the busi
ness , and his broomsmeet with ready sale . He is a member of the
Christian church . He formerly taught school of winters . He is a
Democrat in politics .
TAYLOR H. HULEN .
Taylor H. Hulen was born in Kentucky , September 12 , 1824. He

came to Missouri in 1832 , when a small boy, and was educated at the
common schools in the neighborhood of his home. In 1846 he was
married to Miss Narcissa , daughter of William Turner . By this
union they had ten children , five of each sex, all of whom are living
but one . The first wife having died in 1868, he was again married ,
the second wife being Mrs. Margaret Roberts, late widow of Shelton
Roberts, of Boone county , and a daughter of Andrew Gooding. They
have four children , two of each sex. Mr. Hulen followed farming
until 1880 , when he built the livery stable he now owns, in connec
tion with his partner , Jerry Bush , at Centralia , Missouri. Mr.
Hulen is a member of the Methodist church : He takes a lively inter
est in public matters, and is a friend and zealous worker in the cause
of education . Mrs. Hulen is a member ef the Christian church .
46
JOHN A. JOHNSON .
Anderson Johnson , the grandfather of the subject of this sketch,

was of Irish origin , and a native of Virginia . The father of John A.,
Greenberry Johnson, was born in Howard county , Missouri, May,

1822. He moved to Boone county , where his son was born , February
4 , 1844. The mother's maiden name was Emily Scaggs , daughter of
Archibald Scaggs, of German origin . Mr. Johnson married Miss
Elizabeth , daughter of William W. Tucker , a native of Virginia . Mrs.

Tucker's maiden name was Martha Woodruff . Mr. Johnson has three
children , Charles C., Nora B., and Victor T. He owns a fine farm of
200 acres, well improved and quite productive . He has a fine orchard
and beautiful shrubbery . He is a member of the Christian church and
assistant superintendent of the Lone Star Sunday school.
FRANK KAHN .
Frank Kahn is a native of Germany, and was born December 1,

1851 . His father is still living, having reached his 74th year . His
grandfather lived to the advanced age of 103 years. The subject of
this sketch was one of thirteen children , six sons and seven daughters,
ten of whom are now living. One brother, Leopold , fell in the
Franco - Prussian war . Frank came to the United States in 1872 and
settled first at Nashua , Illinois , where he remained for three years.
He then went to Evansville , Indiana , where he clerked in the store of
Nathan Frank for four years . He then came to Centralia , where he
commenced business for himself, handling dry goods , clothing and
gents' furnishing goods. He was married in Columbia , Missouri, in
1880 , to Miss Fannie Arnold , a native of Philadelphia . They have
one son . Mr. Kahn was raised and educated in Europe. He is an
active , intelligent business man , and has succeeded
in building up a
good business . Few men could have accomplished as much in the
same length of time. He came to Centralia in 1879 .
WILLIAM C. LOVEJOY .
William C. Lovejoy was born at Hanesville , Illinois , February 19 ,

1853. His father , William Lovejoy , kept a hotel at Hanesville , where
he died in 1857, when the subject of this sketch was but four years
old . Young Lovejoy was educated in the common schools, and was
especially trained in penmanship , in which art he became quite pro
ficient . After quitting school he taught writing and drawing for nine
years . Was employed for five years in the first buttery and creamery
established in Wisconsin , where he commanded thehighest salary paid
by the company. He spent several years teaching in Nevada , and
found it very profitable . Came to this county in 1881, and settled
in the place where he now lives. He opened a green -house in Cen
tralia in the spring of 1882, and has now one of the finest collections
west of St. Louis. He will soon have a large stock of small fruits of
every variety known to our soil and climate . Mr. Lovejoy is an en
terprising gentleman , and has already done much to advance the local
interests of the community in which he lives .
EPHRAIM MINOR .
Ephraim Minor is of English origin , his great-grandfather, on the

father's side, having been a native of that country . His grandfather
was a soldier in the revolutionary army, enlisting in Virginia . His
father was a soldier in the war of 1812 . His mother , Rachel Lamb ,
was also of English ancestry . The subject of this sketch was born in
Bracken county , Kentucky, March 7 , 1822. He was the youngest ,
save one, of a family of thirteen children . He was raised on the farm
and educated at the district schools . In 1847 he married Miss
Leah Furguson , daughter of David Furguson , of Brown county,
Ohio . They have had three children . The eldest child died young .
Lucy M. is married to Peter Pickert, a farmer . They have one child .
The other daughter, Emma, is married to G.H. Brown , also a
farmer. Mr. Minor, since his marriage, and before coming to Mis
souri, resided in Ohio , Illinois, Kentucky, Minnesota and Wiscon
sin . In 1864 he enlisted in Company F , Independent Regiment ,
Minnesota Volunteers. Soon after he was disabled by the prema
ture discharge of a cannon , and was released from further duty .

He lived on his farm in Wisconsin until 1873, when he removed
to Missouri and settled near Centralia . In 1882 he moved into
town. He owns a fine farm of 226 acres. Having lost both of his
hands by the accident above mentioned , he now draws annually a pen
sion of $850 . He is a Democrat, voting with his party at all times
and under all circumstances. He is a worthy, well-to -do, thrifty citi
zen , highly esteemed by all who know him .
JOHN T. MITCHELL .
The subject of this sketch is the son of Newman and Hannah (nee
Jackman ) Mitchell, and was born in this county , July 16th , 1857.
Buth his parents are native Missourians, his father having been born
in Boone county , and his mother, in Howard . John T. was reared on
a farm in Boone county , and educated at the State University of Co
lumbia . In 1877 he accepted the position of book -keeper in the Roche
port Savings Bank , and served in that capacity till the fall of 1879,
when he went to Centralia and organized the Bank of Centralia or
rather became an incorporator of that institution , which began busi
ness in 1880. Mr. Mitchell is cashier of the bank , his educational
qualifications and his Rocheport experience combining to fully fit him
for that responsible position . He wasmarried in 1881 to Miss Belle
R. Clayton , the accomplished daughter of John S. and Fannie
(nee Chanibers ) Clayton , of Rocheport. Mr. Mitchell is a member
of the Christian church, and is certainly one of the rising young
business men of the county .
WILLIAM R. M'BRIDE .
William R. McBride was born in Boyle county , Kentucky , Novem

ber 4th , 1833. His father, John McBride, came to Boone county in
1854 , but returning to his native state on a visit in 1860, he died there.
The grandfather's name was David . Hewas a native of Maryland ,
but moved to North Carolina, and from that State to Missouri in
1835 . He was of Scotch - Irish origin . He was a soldier in the war of
1812 . William was one of a family of eight children . He com
menced business for himself when twenty -one years old , with no cap
ital but strength , pluck and energy . His education has been derived
more from men than books, and the lessons learned were those of ex
perience , acquired in the busy field of human effort. In 1866 he was
married to Miss Letha J. , daughter of Thomas Adams, of Millers
burg, Callaway county , Missouri. They have three sons and one
daughter living and one son dead . Mr. McBride is a member of A.
0. U. W. In faith he is a Presbyterian . He is actively engaged in
the stock business, buying and shipping, and has been since 1859.
He cleared $ 1,600 on one shipment of hogs — seven hundred and fifty
head — for which he paid nine and a half cents , the lot costing him
$ 20,000 . He has now ( summer of 1882) three hundred fat hogs,
and is grazing three hundred beef cattle. He settled where he now
lives in 1866. His farm contains four hundred and sixty acres , all
under fence . He has a fine orchard of twenty acres. Mrs. Mc
Bride, having an eye for the beautiful, the yard is all aglow with the
ritrest and most lovely flowers . Mr. McBride takes an active, zealous
interest in school matters , as well as all other enterprises calculated to

improve or benefit his neighborhood .
WILLIAM A. M'CALLISTER , M. D.,
Was born in Huntington county , Indiana, January 7, 1850. His

parents were George and Rebecca (nee Rittenhouse ) McCallister,
the father being a native of Virginia and the mother of Ohio .
William lived in his native county till he was sixteen years old , and
there received his education . In 1866 he came to Sturgeon , Boone
county , Mo., and engaged in farming in summer and school teaching
during the winter , continuing this till 1872 . He began the study of
medicine under Dr. Keith and , in 1874 , attended lectures at the
Missouri Medical College in St. Louis . After practicing a short time
at Centralia , he returned to the Medical College in St. Louis, taking
his final course of lectures in 1876–77, graduating from that institution
in the latter year. He resumed the practice at Centralia , where he
continues to enjoy a lucrative business in his profession .
Few men can boast of the eminent success that Dr. McCallister has
made in so short a time; his position and education being the result,
chiefly, of his own unaided efforts . He was married on January 13 ,
1869, to Miss L. Hendrix , daughter of James and Rachel Hendrix , of
Boone county . Two children - Annie B. and Jessie P : -- have been
born to bless this union . Dr. M. belongs to the A. O. U. W., and
also to the Knights of Honor. He is one of the leading physicians of
the county, and a valuable citizen to the town of Centralia .
ORSON NICHOLS.
Mr. Orson Nichols was born in Otsego , New York , July 24 , 1837,
and continued to reside there till he was 17 years old . His father's
name was Warren C. Nichols, and he reared young Orson on a farm
up to the age mentioned .
The subject of this sketch received his education in the public
schools of his native county , and, in 1854 , left there and cameWest to
Will county , Illinois, where he remained till 1874. Until 1864 he was
engaged in farming, but then embarked in a mercantile calling in Homer,
Illinois , continuing till 1872. He then moved to Centralia , Boone
county , Missouri, and merchandised there three years . Returning to
Homer , he remained till 1877 , when he came back to Centralia , and
again began merchandising At Homer , he was postmaster for eight
years , and is at the present postmaster of Centralia , having been ap
pointed by President Arthur in May , 1882. Mr. Nichols was married ,

January 22d , 1859, to Miss Hannah L. Mason , of Will county , Illinois .
Eight children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Nichols, six of whom
are living at this writing : Frank O., Ida J., Cora A., Fred ,Grace E.,
and Oliver E. Mr. Nichols enjoys the confidence and esteem of his
neighbors , and gets his share of patronage in Centralia .
JAMES O'MEARA .
James O'Meara was born in Ireland , May 17 , 1837. His parents ,

Patrick and Catherine ( Howe ) O'Meara , emigrated to Canada in
1845, bringing the subject of this sketch with them . They died soon
after settling in their new home, and in 1856 James O'Meara came to
Missouri, where he engaged in boot and shoemaking, having learned
this trade in Canada . In 1877 be came to Centralia and established
a shop , where he has remained ever since . He is a well-read , intelli
gent, thoughtful man ; independent in his views and candid in
expressing them . He was married to Miss Lizzie Carry, who died
May 10th , 1882.
JOHN L. PAXTON .
This gentleman's parents, John A. and Dorcas (Hocker ) Paxton ,

were both natives of Kentucky , though John L., himself, is a Mis
sourian) . He was bori in Montgomery county , February 9 , 1852 ,
where he grew up and was educated . At the age of 15 , he began
clerking in a store at Middletown , and continued for three years. In
1870 , he went to Dakota Territory , and spent a year in the Yankton

Reservation , herding cattle among the Indians. He returned to Mid
dletown , Montgomery county , in 1871 , and the next year came to
Centralia , in this county , and began clerking for P. S. Hocker , remain
ing with him for some time. He was then engaged in a lumber yard
till 1880 , when he embarked in the drug business on his own respon
sibility . Mr. Paxton has made what he has himself, his own en
ergy , pluck and industry , being sufficient to start him in life on a
solid basis . He began life for himself when only 12 years old and has
66 held his own ever since . At this writing ( 1882) he is serving
as city clerk of Centralia . Mr. Paxton was married in 1876 to Miss
May Holmes , daughter of Sylvester Holmes, of Monroe county .
They have one child , a son named Charles F.
CHARLES W. PELSUE .
Charles W. Pelsue, one of the proprietors of the Centralia Mills ,

is a native of Vermont, in which State he was born August 8 , 1842.

His grandfather, John Pelsue , was a Frenchman ; his father, Parker
B., married Lucy Emeline Hancock , a relative of Gen. W. S. Han
cock . Charles was one of a family of twelve children - eight sons
and four daughters. The subject of this sketch married Miss Jennie
A., daughter of W. Conger, a native of New York. By this union
they have had six children - three of each sex . Their names are
Frank W., Cora E., Clara , Fred . E., Charles E., and Nadie L. Clara
died in infancy . Mr. Pelsue was a corporal in the Ninth Missourireg
iment ( Federal ) for three years . He was living in Audrain county
when the war commenced , having settled there three years previous .
In 1876 he sold his farm in Audrain and came to Centralia , where he
purchased an interest in the Centralia mills , which he still owns. Mr.
Pelsue is a member of the A. F. and A.M. He is a public-spirited ,
active business man , and , in every sense of the word , a useful
citizen .
PETER PICKERT .
Peter Pickert, son of Elias Pickert , is of German origin . He was

born , in the State of New York , March 13th , 1842. His father was a
farmer and boatman , and the son was brought up on the farm . He
went with his father to Wisconsin where he was married to Miss Lucy
M., daughter of Ephraim Minor. They have four children , two of
each sex . He came to Boone county , Missouri, in 1873 , and settled
on the farm upon which he now resides . It is a handsomeplace pleas
antly located . He is a member of the K. of H.
ADAM RODEMYRE .
Adam Rodemyre, editor and proprietor of the Centralia Fireside

Guard , was born in Illinois , November 20th , 1841. He is the son of
Adam , Sr., a native of Germany, who came to the United States
about the year 1830. He was a wagon-maker. The maiden name
of Mrs. Rodemyre was Laura Kline. Adam was one of eight children .
His mother was twice married . He was ėducated at the public schools
of Illinois . Finishing his academic course he went into the confection
ery and baker's business , which he followed for five years. He next
engaged in coal-mining, which he followed for several years. He then
followed agricultural pursuits until he was nineteen years old , when
he entered a newspaper office . Remaining until he learned the trade ,
he bought a job office and started a paper called the Literary Gem ,
which he continued for several years , finally moving it to Centralia in
1866 , where he continued its publication under the name of Our

Southern Home Circle . He next went to Sturgeon where he published
the Independent for one year , at the expiration of which time he
bought the printing material of his partner and returned to Centralia
and started the Guard , which he has continued to publish ever since ,
except for a period of two years spent in San Bernardino, California ,
during which time he published the Daily and Weekly Times of that
city . He returned to Centralia in 1876 and resumed the publication
of the Guard , which is independent in politics. Mr. Rodemyre
was married in 1866 to Miss Maria Tribble, of Boone county. They
have two sons and one daughter. Their names are Edgar T. , Homer
B. and Viola L. He is a member of the Masonic order , also of the
Independent Order of Good Templars , and the Patrons of Husbandry.
Mrs. Rodemyre is a member of the Missionary Baptist church . Mr.
Rodemyre is an energetic , hardworking journalist , doing the work of
his office without assistance . He is the inventor of an automatic cylin
der press upon which he prints his paper. The Guard is orna
mented with original cuts, which he engraves himself . He is also
proficient in the art of stereotyping . Although thorough in his busi
ness and ahead of the times in many respects, he is quite reticent in
speaking of his own accomplishments in the line of his profession .
JOHN R. SAMES .
John R. Sames was born in Audrain county , Missouri, May 29th ,

1859. He is the son of Dr. Charles F. Sames, a native of Germany,
but of French extraction . Dr. Sames emigrated to the United States
in 1847 and settled in Audrain county , where he now lives. The sub
ject of this sketch was educated principally at the Missouri State Uni
versity. In 1880 he went to Montana Territory. Returning in 1881,
he opened a grocery store at Centralia , in partnership with James B.
Giddings. The firm name is Sames & Giddings. They keep a
general stock of fancy and staple groceries . Mr. Sames is a member
of the Masonic and United Workmen lodges, and a Democrat in poli
tics . He is a courteous, affable gentleman , well known and highly
appreciated by the community in which he resides.
FREDERICK S. SAPPINGTON .
Frederick S. Sappington was born near Sturgeon , Boone county ,

Missouri, October 4 , 1853 . His father , Overton Sappington , was a
farmer and stock raiser. He was born in St. Louis county , his father
having emigrated from Kentucky to Missouri in an early day. The

subject of this sketch was one of five children . He was educated at
the Sturgeon high school, and followed teaching for several years. He
was married , March 1, 1877, to Miss Lucy E., daughter of James M.
Angell. She was also a professional teacher, having been educated
at Central College, Fayette. They have one child , Mary E. Mr.
Sappington settled on the farm where he now lives in 1877. His farm
contains 240 acres , well situated and very productive . He is a men
ber of the Centralia Baptist church .
ELIAS J. SEARS.
The subject of this sketch is a Missourian by birth, born in Monroe

county , September 1 , 1833. He is the son of John and Mary ( Jacks)
Sears, both natives of Kentucky. His mother cameto Howard county
as early as 1816 , and his father came to the same county four years
later , placing them among the pioneer families of that section . Elias
was reared on a farm in Monroe county , and there laid the foundations
of an education , which he afterwards completed at the State Univer
sity at Columbia . After leaving college Mr. Sears engaged in teach
ing school, following that laudable occupation from 1857 to 1867. In
the next succeeding year he went to Sturgeon , this county , and en
gaged in the dry goods business, in which he continued till 1878 , when
he moved to Centralia , and there went into the lumber business with
his brother . This firm does a leading business in that line, and in
1881 sold 150 car-loads of lumber . Mr. Sears, in 1861, married Miss
Mary D. Kennedy, daughter of Jacob and Ann (ree Smith ) Kennedy ,
of Monroe county , Missouri, formerly of Kentucky. Three children
have been born of this marriage, only one of whom survives at this
writing. Mr. Sears has been a member of the Christian church for
over a quarter of a century, and is one of the leading members of
that denomination , as well as a citizen of force and integrity . He has
amassed what he has by his own persistent efforts , and certainly mer
its the esteein in which he is held .
SAMUEL SHRYOCK .
Samuel Shryock , blacksmith and plow manufacturer , Centralia ,

Missouri, was born in Fayette county , Kentucky, November 26 , 1834 .
His father , Daniel , was also a blacksmith , and a volunteer in the war
of 1812 . His grandfather , Frederick , was one of the pioneer settlers
of Kentucky, and lived to the advanced age of ninety -four years , sixty
years of his life having been spent in Kentucky , and in one house . He
was of German parentage. Daniel came to Missouri in 1850 with his
family , and settled in Boone county . During the civil war Samuel
took sides with the South ; he entered the Confederate service August
14 , 1861, under Gen. Price , :und participated in the battles of Lex
ington , Cane Hill, and Drywood . He was transferred to the East
Mississippi Department, and took part in the battles of luka and Cor
inth , after which he was transferred back to the Missouri Division ,
commanded by Gen. Parsons. During the remainder of the war he
served under Gen. John B. Clark , surrendering at Shreveport , Louis
iana , June 6 , 1865. He remained on a farm for about a year after
returning from the war. Moving to old Greenland , near Harrisburg ,
he started a blacksinith shop . He remained there six years , going next
to Harrisburg , where he lived for five years . In the spring of 1879 he
went to Centralia , where he now lives . He is a member of the A. O.
U.W.and A. F. and A. M. He is a good workman and a clever citizen .
ACHILLES F. SNEED , M.D.,
Is the son of Landon C. and Elizabeth (Gibson ) Sneed , both of

whom were natives of Franklin county , Kentucky, where the subject
of this sketch was also born , December 20 , 1827. In his boyhood
days, Dr. Sneed lived on a farın , and of course the first work he ever
did was of an agricultural nature . He grew up in his native county ,
receiving the elementary part of his education in the subscription
schools of that period. In 1851 he began the study of medicine,
and the same year entered Louisville University , from which insti
tution he graduated in 1853. The following fall he moved to Boone
county, Missouri, and located eight miles south of Centralia , where
he began the practice of his profession . He continued in that neigh
borhood till 1860 , when he went to Centralia , being the first regular
physician to locate at that place. Himself and brother are the only
citizens now living in the town who were there when hemoved there .
Dr. Sneed has always enjoyed a lucrative practice in his profession ,
and , better still, has always gained and retained the esteem and con
fidence of the people . He has been a Free Mason for nearly a quarter
of a century and a member of the Baptist church since 1854. In the
last named year he was married to Miss L. Blanton , daughter of
Rev. William Blanton , of Franklin county , Kentucky . Eight chil
dren have been born of this union , four of whom still survive : Eliza
beth , wife of Dr. Wallace , of Centralia ; Henry Landon ; Lewis W .;
and Cora V. Dr. Sneed still continues to do a fine practice and is

one of the leading citizens of Centralia .
HENRY CLAY THRELKELD .
The subject of this sketch was born in Boone county , October 31,
1844. Was educated at public schools . Lived in Columbia township
till March 4 , 1866 , when he came to Centralia . Had but twenty -five
cents in his pocket the day he landed in town . Went to work on the
railroad and afterwards drove a team . He next engaged in the gro
cery business, afterwards in general merchandising. Followed this

business for nine years . Then went into the hotel business, which he
followed for three or four years. Quitting the hotel, he went back to
the grocery business , afterwards selling out to E.M. Anderson . He
then became one of the incorporators and directors of the Centralia
bank . Mr. Threlkeld has been trustee of Centralia for many years.
Has been twice married . His first wife was Mary Enochs, of Renick ,
Missouri. Was married May 11, 1870. The first wife having died
January 23 , 1871, he married Miss Mattie Porter, a native of Belle
ville, Canada . They have two children . Mrs. Threlkeld is a mem
ber of the Methodist church . Mr. Threlkeld is a Mason .
THOMAS TURNER
Was born at the fort at Old Franklin , Howard county , April 15 ,

1817 . He is a son of Smith and Nancy Turner , who were natives of
North Carolina , but settled in Kentucky at an early day . In 1816
they removed to Howard county , Missouri,and three years later came
to Boone , locating in what is now the neighborhood of the old Rock
ford church , and becoming one among the pioneers of the county .
Here Thomas Turner grew to manhood, receivmg his education at the
schools of his neighborhood , then not of a very high order . His
education , so far as book -learning is considered , was therefore some
what limited , but in the school of experience he took a full course.
In 1839 Mr. Turner entered eighty acres of land south of Centralia ,
on the line of Boone and Audrain counties. Here he has since lived ,
having added largely to his original tract , until his farm now com
prises 721 acres of choice land , and is one of the best stock farms in
the country . Mr. T. bas uniformly engaged in farming and stock
raising, in which pursuits he has been fairly successful. In 1882 Mr.
Turner removed to Centralia , where he has a fine residence and is very
comfortably situated . His son manages his fine farm . September 27 ,
1838 , Mr. Turner married Miss Eleanor Turner , daughter of Thomas

and Peggy ( Dunham ) Turner, natives of Kentucky, and among the
early settlers of this county . The subject of this sketch and his wife
are the parents of two children , William S. and Mary B. M. Turner.
While not a wealthy man ,as the term is understood , he enjoys a compe
tence of this world's goods, the product of his own industry , energy
and management. No man stands higher in his community. His
word is as good as his bond. His friends are numbered by legions,
and he deserves every one of them .
WILLIAM N. WHITE ,
Is the son of John O. White and his wife, Jemima. (nee Conley )
White , and was born in this county , on the 2d day of July , 1847.
His parents were both natives of Kentucky, but moved out to Boone
county at an early day. Mr. White's paternal grandfather was a
soldier in the war of 1812. William N. was reared on a farm till he
was eighteen years old , and then accepted a clerkship in the store of
Conley , Strong & Co., at Columbia , and was with them and their suc
cessors for twelve years . He then went into business as a partner in
the firm of White , Barron & Co., at Columbia , also having a branch
house at Centralia . In 1881 they consolidated at Centralia , where
they do a leading business in their line, carrying a stock of some
$ 50,000 annually . May 1 , 1873 , Mr. White married 'Miss Cornelia
Shannon , daughter of the Rev. James Shannon, of Jefferson City,
Missouri, an emineut divine in the Christian church , and for several
years president of the State University . Mrs. White's mother , whose
maiden name was Moore , was born in Georgia . Mr. and Mrs. White
are the parents of three children , two of whom - John Shannon and
Jemima — still survive . Mr. White has been a member of the Chris
tian church since he was fifteen years of age , and is also a member of
the Masonic fraternity and a Knight of Honor. He accumulated
what he has chiefly through his own exertions, and is a fine business
man and a worthy citizen .
ROBERT HARRIS WILHITE .
Robert Harris Wilhite is the son of Smith Wilhite , a native of

Boone county , and was born October 7th , 1855. He was raised on
the farm and educated at the common schools of the neighborhood .
In 1875 he commenced business for himself at Austin , Texas. Re
turning to Missouri, a few years later , he opened a furniture and un
dertaker's store at Centralia , which he continued until July , 1881,

when he went into the boot and shoe trade. In 1882 took T. H. Barnes
in partnership . In religion , Mr. Wilhite is a member of the Baptist
church . He is a young man of energy and firmness, and is fast build
ing up for himself a reliable and paying business.
JAMES D. WYATT .
The subject of this sketch was born in Fleming county , Kentucky ,

April 30th , 1830. His parents, Micajah and Mary (Drennen ) Wyatt,
were both natives of Kentucky , and both his paternal and maternal
grandfathers served as soldiers in the Revolution . James D. was
reared on a farm and received his education in the county of his birth ,
finishing his course at Flemingsburg Academy. After quitting school
he began teaching , and continued in that calling till 1852, when he
began merchandising at Flemingsburg . In 1855 he went to St. Joseph,
Missouri, and there read law under his brother , Judge Wyatt , who was
then judge ofthe probate court in that city . Mr. Wyatt ,however, never
entered the practice , but giving up the law , went to Barry , Clay
county , Missouri, and again began merchandising. He returned to
St. Joe in '63, and for four years filled the position as salesman in a
business house there . Again entering the mercantile field , he operated
till 1869, when he sold out and moved to Centralia , where he carried
on the mercantile business till the year of the National Centennial.
He then retired from that line, and since then has been practicing law
and operating as a collector . He has served as postmaster , and was
also mayor of Centralia . Mr. Wyatt was married in 1858 to Miss
Bettie Givens, daughter of Albert and Sallie Givens, of Clay county ,
this State , formerly of Kentucky . Three children were born of this
union , only two of whom are living at this writing. Mr. Wyatt has
been a member of the Christian church for over twenty years , and
since 1869 has been an elder therein . He has also been a member of
the Masonic fraternity for ten years, and in every way a trustworthy
and exemplary citizen .
:
CHAPTER XVIII.
COLUMBIA TOWNSHIP .
Topography - Fine Farms — Early Settlers and Settlements - Pioneer Life - The First
Mills — Killed by a Tree - A Pioneer Burial — Old Boonsborough - Organization -
First Officers — Brown's Station - The Coal Mines - Horrible Mine Disaster -- Mills
Killing of Major Cave – Country Churches — Grange — Biographies of Old Settlers and
Prominent Citizens.
TOPOGRAPHY .
The greater portion of the land in Columbia is of a rolling char

acter , and in many parts it is rough and hilly . Along the Hinkson
and the other streams, the soil is very stony . Some very fine and
picturesque bluffs are to be seen along the Hinkson , and there is some
magnificent scenery of this character on the Cedars.
In the eastern part of the township is the famed Two-mile prairie ,
a body of prairie land some miles in extent from north to south , and
of about an average width of two miles, from which circumstance it
takes its name. There are a few other tracts of prairie in the town
ship .
Cedar and Little Cedar creeks in the eastern part , the Hinkson in
the center, and numerous branches of Bonne Femme in the western
part of the township , besides numberless springs, furnish abundant
water . Stone of the best quality can be had in abundance . Coal
abounds in the north and is mined very successfully . There are natural
exposures of this mineral in other parts of the township .
FINE FARMS .
Some of the finest farms in the State of Missouri, or in the West ,

are to be found in Columbia township . On them are to be found not
only fertile fields but fruitful orchards, pleasant pastures, lovely lawns,
and handsome, commodious and elegant residences. Some of the farm
houses in the township present the appearance of the mansion of an
English landlord , and the estates are in the highest state of cultiva
tion and improvement. The farmson the Two-mile prairie have an
extended reputation, but a majority of the timber farms produce on
an average fully as well, albeit a great deal of the soil in the timber
is so poor as to be practically worthless for the purposes of ordinary
cultivation .
EARLY SETTLERS .
It will not be expected by the readers of this volume that the names
of all of the first settlers of this township can now be correctly given
in their proper order and arrangement , with the details and date of
their settlement accurately set forth . The best has been done to meet
public expectation in the historical sketch of not only this township ,
but of every other in the county , and it is hoped that the result will
be fairly satisfactory .
It is known that among the first white men who came to the country
now comprised within Columbia township were old Robert Hinkson ,
whose cabin stood near where the St. Charles road crossed the creek
that afterward bore and now bears his name. Near Hinkson came
Thos, and John Kennon , Dennis Callahan , James W. Fowler , Samuel
Johnson , Robert Houston and Joseph Persinger, the latter the famous
old hunter and pioneer, who was reared by the Indians. Peyton Mahan
settled two miles north of Columbia in 1824 .
Mr. Ed . Stephens, in his historical sketch in the Boone County Atlas,
in 1875 , says that in the early days land cost the settlers from two to
six dollars per acre. During the years 1816 , 1817 and 1818 , the land
in Boone county was surveyed into ranges , townships and sections ,
under William Rector, surveyor -general, and Angus L. Langbam ,
William L. May and John C. Sullivan , deputies .
A description of these early pioneers , their habits of life , traits of
character and experiences would be of great interest did space permit,
or were the facts wholly known. That they possessed , energy , in
tegrity , industry and dauntless courage is a familiar fact to those
:
who have the honor to claim them as ancestry . Children of revo

lutionary heroes , the best blood of Virginia and Kentucky, brave ,
determined and nurtured in the noblest precepts of Christianity ,
they were embodiments of manhood that would have honored any
country .
The homes of these pioneers were simple but comfortable. Log
cabins daubed with mud and covered with boards, secured to the roof
by poles, laid lengthwise , nails being too expensive — the whole
usually built by the occupant — comprised a majority of their abodes .
The floors of many of these cabins were dirt , while the chimneys were
of wood, stone rarely being used at all. Farms ranged in size from
ten to thirty acres. A farmer, though entering a thousand acres ,
would generally only cultivate fifteen or twenty acres in corn , perhaps
one in hemp or flax , and some little tobacco and a few acres of cotton .
Cotton gins were common and were better patronized than carding
machines .
Corn sold at twenty cents a bushel, pork brought a cent a pound ,
and whisky from twenty to twenty -five cents a gallon . Horses brought
from twenty to forty dollars , and a cow was by no means a bargain at
nine dollars. An estate worth five hundred dollars was a good com
petence , and one thousand was rich ; wants were few and the necessa
ries of life cheap .
Men were imprisoned for debt, a barbarism that has happily yielded
to our advancing civilization . The “ whipping post,” another cruelty ,
has likewise passed away . The people of those times were eminently
social . “ Shooting matches ,” “ log rollings,” frolics of nearly every
conceivable nature were in vogue , and everybody would go ; some
would get drunk ; all would have a good time. Patriotism was at
fever heat , and the people had still the mania for the " military ”
created by the revolution . Musters were of constant occurrence ,
which would be attended by a vast concourse, and Fourth of July
and General Jackson celebrations aroused an enthusiasm that knew no
bounds.
THE FIRST MILLS .
The first mill in the township was a horse mill brought in a wagon
from Virginia by William Wright, in the year 1816. It was set up on
the northeast quarter of section 13 , township 49, range 12, and was
run for a great many years. Mr. Wright was one of the first settlers
of Boone county . Richard Cave's mill was on the farm now owned
by Capt. David Guitar. It was put up about 1821 or 1822, and was
a horse mill. The Fulkerson mill stood on the Hinkson , in Missouri
township , and was built in 1819.
KILLED BY A FALLING TREE .
In 1825 a little nine-year-old boy named William R. Wright, whose

parents lived in this township , was killed at a point in Missouri town
ship , on what is now known as the Hume farm . He was buried
where is now a garden , on the farm of Sidney Hume. The Indians
had set the woods on fire and the boy, with his father and someothers
of the settlers , was out fighting the flames , and a burning tree fell on
him and killed him instantly . The tragic incident was long remem
hered by those who lived in the county at the time.
A PIONEER BURIAL .
In 1820 a young man whose name cannot be recalled sickened and

died at the home of Isom Winnegan , three miles northwest of Colum
bia and was buried in a very singular manner , and his grave is yet to
be seen on the old James King farm . At that early day there were
no professional undertakers in the country and very scanty means of
making coffins. Having no planks out of which to construct a coffin
and determined that the young man should not be simply interred in
his clothes it wasagreed by some of the neighbors — Newberry Stock
ton , William and Alex . Douglass and Arch Mayo — that they would
aid Mat Douglass, a negro man belonging to William Douglass , in
cutting down a large walnut tree, splitting it and making two troughs
of sufficient capacity when joined together to contain the body. The
purpose was accomplished and the young man buried in this rude
coffin .
OLD BOONESBOROUGH .
About the year 1836 , a Mr. Woods laid off a town on section 3 ,
township 48, range 11, on the east end of the township line, adjoin
ing Callaway county , which he called Boonesborough . The place
came to be one of some trade and importance . The first merchants

were Felix Bryan and W. H. Robertson . The first grocery store was
built and kept by Thomas Turley , who was succeeded by Lewis Reed ,
Peter Kenney and J. Taylor. A store-house was also built by New
man & Kimbrough , and another by Broyles & Taylor . The latter
building was afterward occupied by Carr & Kempinsky . There were
also at Boonesborough a horse-mill , built and run by Wm . James ;
one blacksmith shop by Durnell Bros., and another by Walter James ;
a carpenter shop , by Wm . James and Lon Levi ; a carding machine
built and run by James Turner , and a grocery store built and kept by
Arthur McLane . There was also a select school, the “ Boonesbor
ough Academy,” which had for teachers, from time to time, Robert
Hill , Thomas Kennan , Leachman , Stephens , W. H. Robertson ,
Field , and others.
Boonesborough was in existence for about twenty years, or until
1857, when it died , or “ played out,” as we in the West express
it. Nothing is now left to mark the site and the former glory
of the town but two baildings , one of which was the residence of
Mr. Woods, and the other the old store house built by Bryant &
Robertson .
47
ORGANIZATION - BOUNDARIES .
Columbia is one of the original townships of Boone county . At

the session of the county court, May, 1821 , the county was divided
into municipal townships . Saith the record :
The court then proceeded to lay off the county into townships, and do establish the fol
* Second town
lowing as the several and respective boundaries thereof, viz.:
ship, To be denominated Columbia township : Beginning on the township line between
townships47 and 48 and one mile west of the range line between ranges Nos. 13 and 12 ;
thence north with the sectional line to the southeast corner of section 2, township 49, range
13 ; thence east with the sectional line to the eastern boundary of the county ; thence south
wardly with the said boundary line to the northeast corner of Cedar township ; thence west
with the northern boundary of said township to the place of beginning.
Themetes and bounds of the township as fixed by the early fathers

are the same at this day, no subsequent court caring to remove the
ancient landmarks. Sundry efforts have been made, from time to
time, to create a new civil township out of the territory embraced in
Columbia and of some of the other contiguous townships of the county ,
but to all petitions for a change the court has always turned a deaf
ear.
FIRST OFFICERS .
After the location of the town of Smithton and prior to the organiz
ation of Boone county , when this territory composed a part of How
ard county , where the greater portion of Columbia township now is
the township of Smithton was created by the county court of Howard
July 12 , 1820. The first constable of Smithton township wasWallace
A. Estill . No record is to be found containing the name of the jus
tice of the peace of the township — perhaps, and indeed probably ,
none was ever appointed .
At the first term of the Boone county court , May , 1821 , a num
ber of petitions were presented praying for the appointment of jus
tices of the peace , but these petitions being irregular, were rejected ,
and none others offered . On the last day of the term this court , on
its own motion , recommended certain persons to the Governor for
commissions. Referring to this township , the record stated : “ A
justice of the peace being much wanting in the township of Columbia ,
Boone county , and none having been petitioned for as the law directs ,
this court, on the last day of the term , do nominate to His Excellency
Alexander McNair , Governor of the State of Missouri , Richard Cave
as a suitable person to fill the office of justice of the peace in the said
township of Columbia .” Accordingly Richard Cave was duly com
missioned , and shortly stood up in all the glory of his robes magiste
terial, the pioneer justice of Columbia township . A few days previous ,
Nicholas Kavanaugh had been appointed constable of the township ,
giving $ 1,000 bond .
BROWN'S STATION .
The hamlet known as Brown's Station is situated on the northwest

quarter of section 10 , township 49 , range 12, and is quite a shipping
point — the leading one, in fact, on the Columbia branch of the Wa
bash railway between Centralia and Columbia . Its founders were
Reese , Goodding and Hubbard , the proprietors of the coalmine.
The first house was built by John W.Hubbard , and A. E. Burnam ,
and the first store was owned by these gentlemen . The post- office
was established in 1876 , and A. E. Burnam was the first postmaster .
The first marriage was that of Ralph Hayworth and Miss Lizzie Good
ding, by Stephen J. Bush . The first death was that of Chas . Hockry ,
who was buried -in Gilead cemetery , three miles north of Brown's Sta
tion . The first physician was Dr. L. B. Brown, who is still actively
engaged in the practice of his profession . The first religious services
were held in Burnam's warehouse , by Rev. Stephens, a Baptist .
LEADING INDUSTRIES .
THE COAL MINES AT BROWN'S STATION AND PERSINGER .
The Boone County. Coal and Mining Company was organized in the
year 1875, by Alfred Rees, W. A. Goodding, Allen E. Burnam and
John F. Burnam , for the purpose of mining coal in the northern part
of Columbia township . Previously , in 1872 , a mine had been opened
at Brown's Station by J. W.Hubbard , Alfred Rees and W.A. Good
ding. This mine is now the property of the Boone County Coal and
Mining Company. Its shaft is about 177 feet in depth . The vein
averages about forty -two inches in thickness , and the coal is of excel
lent quality . The first shaft was practically abandoned in February ,
1882 , after producing nearly 2,000,000 bushels.
The company's mine at Persinger station was opened in May , 1881.
The shaft is 80 feet deep ; depth of vein ,42 inches ; average number of
men employed , thirty -five . The mine is located in section 28 , town
ship 49, range 12 , on land leased for twenty - five years, the lease
i The first considerable quantity of coalwas taken out the following October.
expiring in 1906. Altogether , the company is in possession by lease

of 290 acres of land , in sections 28 , 29 and 33, in township 49,
range 12. The present capacity of the mine is 1,200 bushels per day.
The coal is shipped to the gas company at Columbia , also to the
mill company , and to various points on the Wabash railroad , notably
to Warrenton . It bears an excellent reputation as to quality , and the
mine itself,generally speaking, is the best in this section of Missouri.

At present it is in a highly prosperous condition . The firm is now
composed of Alfred Rees and W. A. Goodding , the firm name being
Rees & Goodding .
MINE DISASTER AT BROWN'S STATION .
In connection with the history of themines of the Boone County Coal

Company it is proper to note the terrible accident in the Brown's Sta
tion mine, Friday, April 21 , 1876. On the morning of that day the
miners began to descend the shaft to go to work . Twenty - one of them
had gone down in safety by means of the tub , such as is ordinarily
used in coal shafts , and four more stepped in to make the descent.
The names of those in the tub were Charles C. Stewart , W. H. Can
non , Joseph McIntyre , and Robert L. Palmore . When the men were
about forty feet from the top, the post on the outside that supported
the apparatus by which the tub was raised and lowered broke and fell.
This caused the rope by which the tub was suspended to fly off the
drum wheel through which the post passed and it ( the rope) was cut
in two. The tub with its inmates fell a distance of about 135 feet ,
alighting on the solid rock . Palmore , an eleven -year-old boy , was
killed instantly . His throat was cut , and his teeth were knocked
out . Cannon exclaimed , “ Tell my wife · farewell ' for me, " and died
in a few moments. He was a young married man aged 25. McIntyre

died in 24 hours . Stewart lived nineteen days, suffering intensely all
the while . J. H. Truby, who was in the mine was slightly injured .
The scene a few moments after the dreadful fall was terrible. The
screams of women and children , the wives and other relatives of the
poor miners, were heartrending. Men ran wildly to and fro and the
wildest rumors and conjectures as to the number killed and injured
were prevalent for a time. Burnam Bros. generously opened their
store and told those engaged in caring for the victims of the accident
to take anything they wanted . The first three that died were buried
in Mt.Gilead cemetery , the next day. No blame for the disaster at
litched to any one. The post broke because it was badly worm eaten .
SAW AND GRIST MILL .
Messrs. Dysart & Henry have a very good mill near Brown's Sta
tion , eight miles north of Columbia . The building covers an area of
30x36 feet, and is two and a half stories high . The machinery is
driven by an engine of 25 -horse power . There are two run of burrs ,
and the grinding capacity of the mill is about 35 barrels of flour or
300 bushels of corn meal per day . The machinery is from Logans
port , Indiana , and is called the automatic grinding mill, the only one
of the kind in the county except at Sturgeoi). The saw -mill can turn
off from 4,000 to 5,000 feet of hard lumber per day . The size of the
engine house is 17x46 feet .
WAR INCIDENT KILLING OF MAJ . WM . CAVE .
During the civil war, September 4 , 1864 , a squad from Capt. Carey's
company of the Third M. S. M., rode out from Columbia and shot
and killed Maj. Wm . Cave , who then lived a mile north of Columbia ,
on the farm now owned by Col. E. C. More . The look -out in the cu
pola of the court house reported that he saw a squad of bushwhackers
ride up to Maj. Cave's residence about noon , and after remaining long
enough to eat a hearty dinner , came out again , and rode away into the
brush . The squad was immediately sent out, and soon returned , re
porting that the “ old devil ” would feed no more bushwhackers .
COUNTRY CHURCHES - - BEAR CREEK CHURCH , NOW ANTIOCH .
Perhaps the first church organization in Columbia township was old

Bear Creek , afterwards called Antioch , the church building of which
stood on or near the section line between sections 23 and 24 , in
township 48, range 12. The organization was first effected north
of Columbia , and for some time there was no regular place of meet
ing , services being held in the members ' houses , chiefly at the dwell
ing house of Richard Cave . The following is a literal copy of the first
church constitution , happily still in existence :
June the 6 , 1824.
we the under name subscribers being calld upon to Examine in to the faith and abillity of
Brethren living on and nea Bear Creek (n . of Columbia ) desiring to be constituted — we find
them in our opinions sound in the faith and Possessing the abilitys of keeping in order the
house ofGod. Wetherefore have Pronounced them a Church of Jesus Christ under no other
dissiplin or Rule for faith and Practice but the old and new testemen professing at the same
time to have Charity Enough as a Church to let Each other judge of the doctrines Containod
in the scriptures for ourselves. given under our hands who are elders and have Constituted
the undersigned names. Elders present - Thos. MCBRIDE,
WM. ROBERTS,
Joan M. THOMAS.
Assigned the day and date above named .
The following were the first members : Asa Stone, Cumberland

Snell, Wm . Lewis , Wm . Cave, Derritt Wills, Richard Cave, Francis
Cave , Bennett Tilly , John Cave , Marcus Wills, Sarah Wills , Elizabeth
Stone and Nancy Harris, who were admitted , as the record states, “ on
profession of faith .” Two members, Stephen Bedford and Elizabeth
Bedford were received as living “ in Columbia .”
The first communion service was held at the house of Richard Cave ,
that gentleman furnishing for the occasion - one bottle of wine,
worth $ 1 ."
The following are extracts from the record book of the proceedings
of the first meetings of the organization : -
July 3 ( Saturday ), 1824. — The Church of Christ at Bear Creek met, and , after divine
service , chose Bro. Richard Cave moderator and proceeded to business. First, appointed
Bro . Wm . Lewis church clerk ; also chose Bro . Asa Stone to be our deacon . Then ad
journed till our next meeting in course.
August 3, 1824. — Church met, and , after divine service, inquiry was made if all are in
love. Nothing come forward and we was then dismisst in order.
January 3, 1825. — Church met, and, after divine worship, inquiry was made if all are
in love. Nothing come forward and we was then dismisst in order.
March 3, 1825. — Church met, and , after divine worship, inquiry was made if all are in
love. Nothing come forward and we was then dismisst in order.
May 3, 1825. — The church met, and, after divine worship , we had preaching, and then
the church opened her doors for the reception of members, and Bennett Tilly joined by ex
perience . We then adjourned till our next meeting in course .
June 3, 1825. – The church met, and after divine worship , Bro. Richard Cave preached
a sermon , and, after setting in order the things of the house, wewas dismisst in order.
August 3, 1825. — Thos. McBride preached and John Cave was received into the church .
The first church building was a log house which stood somewhere
on Bear creek . The second church site was selected in 1852, being
four acres on the northwest quarter of the southwest quarter of sec
tion 33 , township49, range 12. The church was built during the
summer and fall of 1853 , and the first regular services were held on
the fourth Sunday in October, 1853. It was then named Antioch .
The cost of the building was about $ 1,200. The early pastors of the
church were Richard Cave, Thomas McBride, Joel Haden ,-Mar
low , and perhaps others .
Recently services have been suspended at Antioch church , themem
bers being very few in number, and growing somewhat apathetic.
Lest the denomination of Antioch church may not be clearly under
stood by what has been stated , it may be well to say that it belongs
to the Christian church .
OAKLAND CHURCH CHRISTIAN ) .

Oakland church is situated seven miles from Columbia , on the
southwest quarter of section 17 , township 49, range 12 , on three acres

of land purchased from Wm . L. Parker and J. B. Orear . The con
gregation was organized in 1872, with forty -four members, among
whom were J. F. Spence , Richard Phillips, Augustus Phillips and
H. B. Jones and their wives, John C. and Francis Phillips , S. H. and
Mary J. Prather , J. C. and Lula Prather , Jesse Prewitt and S. E.
Prewitt.
The church building was erected in 1872 , and dedicated December
14th , of that year . It is a frame, 34x52 in size , and cost $ 2,400 .
The dedication services were conducted by Elder L. B. Wilkes . The
· pastors have been Wm . Mason , J. H. Duncan , J. H. Headington, 0 .
A. Carr and Hoffman . The present number of members is one
hundred and foriy -three .
In September , 1873 , a protracted meeting, conducted by Elders D.
M. Grantfield and Wm . Mason , was held at this church , resulting in
fourteen additions . August 22 , 1874 , another meeting, conducted by
Elders Wilkes and Duncan , and lasting eight or nine days, was held ,
which resulted in fifty - seven additions . Since its first organization , in
1872, the membership has increased from forty - four to 143. The
church building is a very handsome and comfortable structure , and
has a seating capacity of 350. There is a fine cemetery in connec
tion with the church .
OLIVET CHURCH - ( CHRISTIAN ) ,
This church is situated on section 24, township 48 , range 12. It

was organized January 17 , 1874 , with about thirty -five members,
some of whom were Elizabeth , Mary and Amanda Chick ; Mollie C.
;
and J. T. Dailey ; Patsey , Hettie and S. Dinwiddie ; Martha A., Cor

die V., R. S. and W. B. Estes ; Martha A., Elizabeth J., Sallie J. ,
Annie M., Annie E , and Squire Turner ; Elizabeth White, J. R. and
Margaret Boulton , Annie Bradford and Wm . P. Berkebile .
The church building , a frame, was built in the spring of 1874, at al
cost of $ 2,000 . It was dedicated August 16 , 1874 , by Elder L. B.
Wilkes . The pastors have been W. C. Ridgeway, G.H. Perkins, Dr.
Newton Hockensmith , R. N. Davis , Philip Bruton and William Jar
rott .
The largest number of accessions to the church in any one season
was at a meeting which began October 18 , and lasted until November
3 , 1879. This meeting was conducted by Elder Kirk Baxter , and
there were thirty - five converts .
PRAIRIE GROVE CHURCH (M. E. SOUTH ) .

This church is located on section 6 , township 48, range 11. The
organization was effected about the year 1853. It has not been possi
ble to obtain the names of the originalmembers . The present church
building was erected in the years 1872 and 1873. It is a frame, and
cost $ 1,500. It was dedicated in June , 1873, by Rev. John D. Vin
cil . The pastors have been B. H. Spencer, Wm . Penn, B. F. John
son , S. W. Cope, H. Brown , W.G. Miller , R. H. Gordon , J. W.
Gordon , W. F. Bell, J. R. Taylor , W. M. Sutton , D. N. Epperson ,
J. F. Monroe , L. A. Smith , W. H. Lewis, W. T. Ellington , R. W.
Collet, S. L. Woody, J. F. Shores and H. D. Graves. The present
membership is thirty - five.
PRAIRIE GROVE CHURCH ( BAPTIST ) .
Prairie Grove church was organized March 20 , 1875 , with thirty

eight members, some of whom were John M. and John O. Maupin ,
Thomas and Frank Wilcox , Martha R. Maupin , Amelia Lusk , Fannie
Lusk , Mollie Devier , Rebecca Carpenter , Alice Wilhite , D. H. Wilhite ,
the Mosely family , and James and Amanda Northcutt. The church
building stands on section 6 , township 48, range 11. It is a frame,
and was built in the fall of 1875 at a cost of $ 1,700 . It was dedi
cated on the third Sunday in April following, by Rev. J. M.Robinson .
The church has had for pastors Revs . J. M. Robinson , G. L. Black
and B. B. Gentry . The present membership is forty -one.
Before the church was built services were held in the M. E. Church
South . At one time a union meeting between the Methodists and
Baptists was held which resulted in twenty additions to the church .
March 20 , 1875 , the church received seven additions by letter from
Bonne Femme church . Prairie Grove was originally a branch of the
Baptist church at Millersburg , Callaway county .
GRANDVIEW BAPTIST CHURCH .
This church is situated at the head of the Two-mile prairie. The

congregation was organized December 25, 1869. Some of the origi
nal members were Samuel and Rhoda Watkins, R. H. Wilcox , E. J.
Wilcox, John James, Wm . and E. F. Norris , Aaron and Mary Thorn
ley , Mary James , A. G. and Eliza Shaefer , Noah Flood and John
Howell. The church building , a frame, was erected in 1874 , and ded
icated May 27, 1877, hy Rev. J. M. Robinson . This church has had
HISTORY OF BOONE ' COUNTY . .745
for pastors Revs . G.D. Tolle , Green Carey , John Parmer , J. M.Mc
Guire, and Joshua Pearce. The church has been greatly strengthened
the present year under the ministrations of Rev. Pearce . Twenty
six additions have been made to the membership , and the church feels
· that it has also received many spiritual blessings , and hopes that in
the future it may be as a city set on a hill, which “ cannot be hid .”
The present membership is 101.
GILEAD GRANGE .
Gilead Grange No. 1657, Patrons of Husbandry , was instituted by

W. T. Hickman under a charter dated February 14 , 1874. The char
ter members were J. A. Stevenson , W. W. Hulet, Henry Palmer , A.
Hunter, A. C. Turner, J. D. Williams, A.G. Robinson , Sallie Palmer ,
Josie Hulet , Eliza Williams, and others . The first officers were J. A.
Stevenson , master ; B. Crump, overseer ; C. C. Turner , lecturer ;
W. W. Hulet, treasurer ; T. Crump, chaplain ; L. G. Berry , secre
tary ; W. Roberts , steward ; Mrs. Amanda G. Robinson , Ceres ;
Crotia Haggard , Pomona ; Miss Josie Hulet, Flora ; Mrs. Martha J.
Barrett , lady assistant steward . The present officers are : L. G.
Berry , master : Silas Hogan , O .; J. W. Conley , L .; Joseph Brown ,
C. ; D. H. Orear, sec'y ; A. Conkling , steward ; Mrs. E. A. Berry ,
Ceres ; Mrs. Bettie Hogan , Pomona ; Miss Etta Berry , Flora ; Miss
Maggie Conley , L. A. S. The present inembership is about 50. The
grange meets in a rented hall at Brown's Station .
BIOGRAPHIES.
LEE ANTHONY .
The subject of this notice was born in Morgan county , Missouri, in

1846. He is the son of Thomas and Cassandra ( Sutton ) Anthony .
His father is a native of Tennessee , and was born February 28th , 1812 .
His parents came to Boone county , Missouri, when he, Thomas, was
quite a small boy, and settled about five miles west of Columbia . He
married Miss Cassandra Sutton , a daughter of Wm . Sutton. Miss
Sutton , the mother of Lee Anthony , was born in Kentucky on the 7th
of December, 1818 , and cameto Boone county with her parents when
she was quite a child . One year after her marriage with Thomas An
thony they moved to Morgan county , where Lee was horn.- They
lived there until 1862, when they returned to Boone. They had a
family of fourteen children , seven of whom are now living. Thomas

Anthony died in 1876 , and is buried at the Wright graveyard , in
Columbia township , where his first wife was buried in 1865. His
second wife is still living . For the last few years of his life he lived
in Audrain county . Lee Anthony, his son , came to Boone county
with his parents when he was sixteen years of age, and has lived here
continuously since . He was married February 12th , 1875, to Miss
Lottie S. Tucker, a daughter of Warren W. and Martha B. Tucker ,
of this county . They have three children , two girls and one boy .
Their names are Cora C., Allison Woods and Eva May . His farm
upon which he lives is one mile east of Stephens' station and six miles
northeast of Columbia . The home place contains three hundred acres ,
and his other farm on the prairie four miles to the southeast of him ,
has two hundred and sixty - five acres . Mr. Anthony is a farmer and
stock feeder, standing in the front rank of enterprising stock men of
Boone county . He is a genial, hospitable gentleman , dispensing hos
pitality in that hearty , whole -souled manner which is characteristic of
the Southern man everywhere . He and his wife are members of the
Christian church at Oakland .
DR . M. R. ARNOLD , DECEASED .
Dr. Matthew Read Arnold , son of Lewis and Margaret ( Throck

morton ) Arnold , was born in Bourbon county , Kentucky , March 13th ,
1805. He was educated in Kentucky. After coming to Boone
county , he studied medicine and practiced his profession until his
death, which occurred July 22d , 1868. He was married September
2d , 1828 , to Melvina , daughter of Gen. R. S. Russell, of Bourbon
county , Kentucky . By this union there were five children , Eliza B.,
Lewis H., Maria T., Robert E., and Thomas A. The first wife
dying, he was married the second time, September 22d , 1853, to
Eliza J., daughter of Joseph and Susan (Hill ) Swanson . By this
union there were two children , Matthew R. and Jas. P. Dr. Arnold
was a member of the Christian church of Columbia . Mrs. Arnold is
a member of the Columbia Methodist church . She is living on the
farm purchased by her husband , four and one-half miles southeast of
Columbia .
ELI BASS .
The subject of this sketch was born in Nashville, Tennessee, and

died in Boone county , Missouri, 1865 , in the fifty -ninth year of his
age . His father , Peter Bass, was a native of Maryland, but for a
number of years had lived at Nashville, when he moved with his family
to Boone county , Missouri, in 1819 , when Eli was quite a boy. He
was a man of great energy and decision of character and amassed a
very large fortune and at his death left his children large patrimonies .
Eli, his son , instead of spending his fortune, asmost young men do,
who inherit great wealth , added greatly thereto , besides rearing and
educating a large family . He was in the true sense of the word a
gentleman , one of extensive information and fine practical sense , pos
sessing a magnificent physique. He was perhaps one of the largest
owners of real estate in Central Missouri, living in princely style at
his elegant country residence , where he dispensed hospitality in the
true Southern style . He reared large herds of stock and carried on
farming in a remunerative and practical manner. In 1861 he was
elected to the Constitutional Convention to form a new Constitution
for the State . He subscribed $ 3,000 to procure the location of the
State University at Columbia , and was one of its first curators . His
reputation for rectitude and reliability was of the highest order. He was
for years a worthy and consistentmember of the Baptist church . His
children are among the most enterprising and intelligent citizens of

Boone county , one son , J. L., representing the county in the General
Assembly some years since , and no name has been held in higher es
teem in Boone county , than that of Bass . Eli's elder brother, John
M., was a lawyer of distinction in St. Louis, a compeer of Bates ,
Gamble, Geyer and Lucas, and afterwards was , for twenty -five years ,
president of the Union Bank of Tennessee . Eli Bass married Miss
Margaret , daughter of Capt . Wm . Johnson, of Boone county , who
survives him . She is a noble, highly cultivated Christian lady, he
loved by all who know her .
CAPT . MONROE BATEMAN .
Captain Monroe Bateman is a native of Fleming county , Ken

tucky , where he was born February 13 , 1831. Is the son of Newton
and Margaret Bateman . He was educated in Mason county, Kentucky.
In 1852 Mr. Bateman went to Stockton , California , where he re
mained five years. Returning to Mason county , he engaged in the
mercantile business at Minerva until 1857 . At the breaking out of
the war Captain Bateman raised a company of cavalry for the Union
army. His command was mustered in as company L , 2d Ken
tucky cavalry . At one time his company served as escort to General
Sherman . He was captured by the enemy and was a prisoner until
paroled , October 5 , 1863. In the latter part of the war he went to

Cincinnati where he engaged in the mercantile business with Ellis,
McAlpin & Co. He did not remain in Cincinnati but one year , com
ing to Boone county , Missouri, in 1864. He was married , May 5,
1864 to Miss Mary A., daughter of Jesse and Mary Boulton . Their
union has been blessed with eight children , four of whom are dead .
The deceased children were Clarence M., born May 4 , 1865, died May
28 , 1870 ; Levi M., born December 2, 1867 , died June 13, 1870 ;
Ruth A., born August 8 , 1875 , died January 3 , 1876 , and an infant
son , born and died May 3 , 1871. The living children are Mary L.,
born August 15 , 1869 ; Jesse C., born December 4 , 1872 ; Clinton C ,,
born July 3 , 1877, and Clark R., born November , 1879. Mr. Bate
man is a member of the Masonic lodge at Columbia , also a member of
the Columbia Christian church . Mrs. Bateman is a member of the
same church . Mr. Bilteman is president of the Blackfoot and Colum
bia rock road , which position he has held for eight years . He is
largely interested in agriculture. His farm of 217 acres is well im
proved . It is an excellent stock farm , the land being well set in blue
grass . It is situated three miles north of the court- house . He also
owns 120 acres of land in section 18 , township 49. He has been
president, vice -president and director of the Boone County Agricul
tural and Mechanical Association , being for many years one of the
most active and energetic workers in this corporation ,
SAMUEL BEATTIE , DECEASED .
The old pioneer whose name heads this sketch was a native of Wash
ington county , Virginia , where he was reared and educated . He came
to Boone county , Missouri, in company with his brother David , as
early as 1818 . He was married in this county , May 11, 1820 , to Miss
Mary Denny, and the young couple made their bridal tour to Garrard
county , Kentucky, on horseback , the trip requiring somethree weeks .
He had settled on Thrall's Prairie some time in the year 1818. Two
sons and three daughters were born to Mr. and Mrs. Beattie , named
William N., David F., Sarah A., Mary E., and Elizabeth J. Samuel
Beattie was the first constable of Perche township , having been ap

pointed to that office in 1821. . He was always a fariner , and the place
he settled is the one now occupied by his son , William N. Beattie . It
lies one and a half miles north of Columbia court-house . He died in
Boone county, January 31, 1831, and is buried by the side of his
wife, on the old homestead , she having died September 29, 1856 .
WILLIAM N. BEATTIE .
William N. Beattie is a son of the deceased pair mentioned in the

sketch of Samuel Beattie , and was born in Boone county , April 20 ,
1821. He seems to have been the oldest of five children , and was
reared and educated in his native county , receiving his education at
Columbia College . He was married September 20 , 1849, to Miss
Katharine, daughter of Samuel and Letitia ( Hayes ) Murrell. They
have five children — three sons and two daughters . Mr. Beattie has
always been a farmer, and is now residing on the old place settled by
his father. He is a member of the Presbyterian church , of Columbia .
He was quite young when his father died , though he was the oldest
child ; and the work of the family maintenance and improvement of
the farm devolved largely upon him . Since he has become solely
possessed of the old farm , he has greatly improved and built
up the place , till it is now , at this writing , one of the finest farms
in Boone county .
JOHN W. BEAZLEY , DECEASED .
Mr. Beazley was the son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Woolfolk )

Beazley , and was born in Boone county , seven miles southwest of
Columbia . He received his education in this county, and in early
life learned the cabinet -maker's trade, at which he worked for seven
years. On the 20th of December , 1855 , he was married to Miss
Sarah Lynes , daughter of James M. and Hannah B. (Victor ) Lynes .
Soon after his marriage , Mr. Beazley quit the cabinet-making business,
and moved on a farm three and a half miles southeast of Columbia ,
where he continued to reside till the time of his death , which occurred
May 24th , 1864. Mrs. Beazley , his widow , is still living in Boone
county at the time of this writing . She is a member of the Bonne
Femme Baptist church , and has been for nineteen years .
JESSE A. BOULTON .
Judge Jesse Augustus Boulton is the son of Brice and Eliza (Pep
per ) Boulton . He was born in Mason county , Kentucky, May 19 ,
1817 , and came to this county in the fall of 1840. He was edu
cated at Bacon College, Georgetown, Kentucky, of which David S.
Burnett was president. After completing his education , he taught
chool in Bracken county , Kentucky, afterwards at Woodlawn Sem
inary . He was married , October 17 , 1839 , to Miss Mary H., daughter
of Levi Todd and Mary ( Emison ) Smith . By this marriage they
had two children , one son and one daughter . The son , David R., is
now in Maysville, California. Mrs. Boulton , died February 26 , 1846,
and was buried on the farm formerly owned by her father , now the
property of Capt. Monroe Bateman . Judge Boulton returned to
Kentucky in the spring of 1847, and was married soon after to Miss
Clara , daughter of Robert and Elizabeth Payne (Loyd ) Perine. By
this union they have had five sons and one daughter . Jesse L. was
boru and died September 8 , 1854. Robert Perine was
born June 29th , 1854. He is now professor of English literature at
the Christian University at Canton , Missouri, which position he has
occupied for several years . Lillie Francis was born July 25 , 1857 ;
Walter E., April 6 , 1861 ; Payne A., August 18 , 1864 , and John
W., August 21, 1867. Judge Boulton was employed to teach
the public school at Columbia in 1840 , and was actively engaged in
this business for several years. From 1847 to 1850 he taught at
Woodlawn Seminary, Kentucky, as previously stated in this biography.
He served two terms as judge of the Boone county court , first term
by appointment from Gov. Hardin in 1875. The year following he
was elected to the same office . Judge Boulton has followed teaching
and farming all his life. He was president of the Boone county
grange for two years , and has always been an active , zealous member
of that organization . He is an official member of the Christian
church , and his wife has been a communicant of that church for forty
years . Since 1850 , Judge Boulton has followed farming exclusively .
He has a fine farm of 475 acres three and one-half miles northeast of
Columbia , all of which is inclosed . One-half of the land is in grass,
the remainder he devotes to the various crops usually grown on the
farm . Mr. Boulton has a remarkable memory . He recollects every
incident connected with his life from earliest childhood , and can name
the date of eachoccurrence correctly . Rice Boulton , the father of
Jesse, was born in Charlotte county , Virginia , December 23, 1787 ,
and emigrated to Kentucky in 1813. The year following he wasmar
ried to Eliza Pepper, of Mason county , Kentucky, a professional
school teacher . The elder Boulton was for years sheriff of Mason
county . Came to Boone county , Missouri, March 26 , 1853, and lived
with his sonJesse until his death , which occurred March 26 , 1866 .
He was a member of the Christian church , and his wife , who is still
living — having reached her eighty -fourth year — is also a member of
the same church , and has been for seventy years .
G. A. BRADFORD .
George Austin Bradford is the son of Austin and Levina Bradford ,

of Scott county , Kentucky, in which State he was born June 6 , 1830 .
He came to Boone county in 1836 , and was educated at the Bonne
Femme Academy, six miles southeast of Columbia . Was married
January 28 , 1858 , to Miss Annie , daughter of Joel and Dorcas T.
Smith , of Randolph county , Missouri. Mr. Bradford was raised on
the farm and has followed farming all his life . He owns twelve
hundred and fifty acres of land . A body of four hundred acres con
stitutes the tract upon which he lives . This farm is well located and
finely improved . He has a fine frame residence situated three miles
southeast of Columbia, on the Columbia and Ashland gravel road .
Mr. Bradford is largely engaged in stock -raising and has some fine
thoroughbred Durham cattle . He is a member of the Christian
church at Olivet , on the Two-Mile Prairie , and has been a mem
ber of this congregation for fifteen years.
MICHAEL BRIGHT.
Michael Bright is the son of Michael and Jane (McClung ) Bright,

and was born in Callaway county , Missouri, May 20th , 1848. His
father was from Greenbrier county , West Virginia , and emigrated to
Missouri in 1834 . The grandfather of our suliject was also Michael
Bright, and his wife was Sarah Price , all Virginians. The father of
Michael, our subject, settled in Callaway county , Missouri, near Ste
phens' store , and lived upon the farm until his death , in 1881. He
is buried at Cedar church , in Callaway county . The present Michae
was reared upon the farm and lived with his parents until he was
twenty - four years old , when he went to Wyoming Territory , and
stayed two years . Hewas married on the 28th of May, 1874 , to Miss
Adelia A., daughter of John C. and Elizabeth McKinney , of Boone
county . Mrs. Bright's father is dead , but her mother is yet living .
Her father died in 1875 , and is buried at Walnut Grove church . Mr.
and Mrs. Bright lived one year after their marriage in Callaway
county , and then sold their farm and bought and improved the place
here in Boone where they are now living. The farm contains 240
acres, well improved . The house is upon the southwest quarter of
section 20 , township 49 , range 11. Mr. Bright handles stock consid
erably , mostly cattle . His wife is a member of the Baptist church
at Prairie Grove . They have one son , John McKinney Bright .
BERRYWICK J. BROWN .
Berrywick Johnson Brown is a native of Boone county . He is the
son, and only surviving child of James and Sarah Ann ( Davis ) Brown ,
who were among the early settlers of Boone county . Berrywick was
born four and one-half miles northwest of Columbia , November 3 ,
1848. He was educated at the district schools, completing his studies
at the Missouri State University . Was married November 29, 1877,
to Miss Lula , daughter of Philip and George Ann (Nichols ) , Prather .
By this marriage they have had two sons. Mr. Brown was raised on
the farm , and has followed agriculture exclusively until recently , when
he added the business of brick -making, forming for this purpose a
partnership under the firm name of Brown & Berry . This is the
largest firm of the kind ever established in Columbia . They employ
over twenty hands. They have all the modern machinery for making
pressed brick , such as our people were formerly compelled to ship
from a distance . They find ready sale for all their brick . Though
the enterprise is yet in its infancy , Messrs. Brown & Berry have every
reason to feel encouraged , and the people of Columbia are fortunate
in thus securing good material for the many excellent buildings that
are being added to the town every year . Mr. Brown has a farm of
500 acres , situated two miles north of Columbia , on the Columbia and
Blackfoot rock road. He is a member of the Columbia lodge of
K. of P. His wife is a member of the Christian church . James Brown ,
the father of B. J., was born July 27 , 1798 , and came to Boone
county in 1832, emigrating from Madison county , Kentucky. He was
married March 5 , 1840, to Sarah A. Davis, of Scott county , Ken

tucky . By this union they had seven children , six sons and one
daughter, Berrywick being the fifth child born of this marriage . He
is the only child now living. James Brown , the father of Berrywick ,
died in 1865 , and was buried on the farm now owned by his son .
Mrs. Brown died July 18 , 1873 , aged fifty -nine years . She was
buried by the side of her husband . The elder Brown was banished
from Missouri in 1862, on account of his Southern proclivities. He
spent most of his exile at Greencastle , Indiana .
LEONIDAS B. BROWN , M.D.
Dr. Leonidas B. Brown is the son of James and Dorcas (McCalla )

Brown , of Scott county , Kentucky, where he was born May 13 , 1828 .
The family came to Boone county, Missouri, in the spring of 1835 .
He was educated at Georgetown College , Kentucky. Studied medi

cine in the office ofGreig & Rankin , Georgetown , Kentucky, after
wards graduating at the University of Louisville , in the twenty -fourth
year of his age. He next attended a course of lectures at Jefferson
Medical College , Philadelphia , graduating in the spring of 1852. He
then came to Boone county , Missouri, where he practiced his profes
sion for two years , returning to Philadelphia for another course of
lectures. Completing his medical studies, he returned to Boone county
and resumed his former practice at Brown's Station . He moved his
family to the farm , formerly owned by his father , one-half mile east of
Stephens' station , but still keeps his office at Brown's Station , which
derives its name from him . The village, consisting of some eight or
ten houses , is built on his land. He has an extensive practice , visit
ing in his rounds some three hundred families . He has at his home
farm 170 acres, and at Brown's station about 40 acres . Dr. Brown
was married December 19 , 1854, to Miss Thompson , daughter of
Richard and Ann (Swan ) Thompson. By this marriage they had one
son and one daughter. The first wife died in 1856 . In 1858 he was
married to Miss Nannie, daughter of Hugh and Mary Wright. By this
union they have four sons and one daughter . Dr. Brown's father was
a carpenter , but carried on a farm while working at his trade. He
built a great many houses in Columbia . He was quartermaster in the
Mormon war, under General Thomas D. Grant. He died in 1845 , and
is buried at the old Hinkson church . Mrs. Brown died in 1869 , and
is buried by the side of her husband . Their family consisted of nine
children , five sons and four daughters, of whom three sons and two
daughters are now living, Dr. Brown being the oldest. F. C. Brown
is a practicing physician at Hickory Grove church , Boone county . C.

C. Brown is in the mercantile business , St. Louis ; Isabella married
Jesse Hart ; Miriam married Samuel Crockett , all of Boone county .
Mrs. Dr. Brown is a member of the Methodist church .
A. P. CLARKSON .
Arthur Payne Clarkson is the son of Dr. Henry M. and Mariam -

( Payne) Clarkson . Dr. Clarkson was a graduate of the old Medical
College at Philadelphia , but never practiced his profession . He own
ed a large plantation in Fauquier county , Virginia , which required all
of his attention . His wife's father was also one of the largest planters
in their section of Virginia . Arthur P. Clarkson came to Missouri in
1841 and settled in Columbia , where he remained for six or seven
48
years. He then moved to the farm upon which he now resides, five
miles east of Columbia , on the gravel road . He was educated at
Westminster College, Fulton , Missouri. Was married April 26th ,
1859 , to Miss Emily A., daughter of William H. and Harriet (Hol
ley ) Brand , of Lexington , Kentucky. Dr. Holley , grandfather of
Mrs. Clarkson , was four years president of Transylvania College,
Lexington , Kentucky. Mr. Clarkson has always followed farming .
He owns a fine farm one and a half miles east of Columbia , on the St.
Charles road. From 1867 to 1873 Mr. Clarkson was chairman of
the Boone County Democratic Central Committee . He has always

taken a lively interest in political matters . While not a partisan ,
strictly speaking , he is yet sincere and positive in his political convic
tions and unwavering in his support of party men and measures.
JOHN CONNELLY .
The above is the original spelling of the name of an old pioneer

family , though the orthography has been changed by the descendants
and younger generation , who spell the name C -o - n - l- e- y , dropping out
one " n " and one “ 1 ” and placing the “ e ” between the “ 1 ” and
the “ y .” John Connelly , the subject of this sketch , was born in
Maryland in the year 1755 , and came to Boone county , Missouri, in
1827. He married Elizabeth Turner of Madison county , Kentucky ,
and became the ancestor of many of the generations in Boone county ,
who bear the name, and the altered name as mentioned above . Mr.
Connelly served under Gen. Greene in the Revolutionary War , and
was present at Yorktown when Lord Cornwallis handed over his
sword to Gen. Washington . This worthy old pioneer died at the
home of his son - in - law , James Turner, in 1849 , on wbat is known as
the Two-mile Prairie , and was laid by his friends and relatives in his
last resting place .
SANFORD CONNELLY
Is a son of John and Elizabeth ( Turner ) Connelly , and was born in

Madison county , Kentucky, January 8th , 1815 , and was partially
educated in his native county . He completed his education in Boone
county , Missouri, whither his parents removed in 1827. When 22
years old he enlisted , in 1837, for service in the “ Florida War ."
He served three months under command of Col. Richard Gentry,
and with credit to himself. Mr. Connelly was married in Boone
county , December 23d , 1840, to Jane Le Force , daughter of William
and Mary (Martin ) Le Force, a family of French descent. Mr. Con
nelly was engaged in business in Columbia , keeping a general mer

chandise store from 1858 to 1862. He then sold his stock of goods
to his nephew , John C. Connelly , and moved to the country on a
farm of 280 acres , fourmiles northwest of Columbia , where he lived till
1879. On leaving that place , he moved to his present place of resi
dence , two and a half miles south of Columbia . Mr. Connelly is one
of Boone county's most substantial farmers, and owns some 570 acres
of as good land as is in the county . He is a member of the “ Olivet ”
Christian church .
ANDREW MAY CONWAY .
Andrew M. Conway , son of Gen. Frederick Rector and Martha

(Collins ) Conway , was born in St. Louis , Missouri, October 8, 1842.
Came to Boone county in 1849. Was educated at the Bonne Femme
Academy, and at Elin Ridge Academy,Howard county , completing his
literary education at the Missouri State University in 1864. Completing
his medical course in 1874 at St. Louis. Returning to Boone county , he
opened an office atMidway, seven mileswest of Columbia . In Oct. 1875 ,
he married Miss Susan , danghter of Isaac and Susan (Anderson ) Hays .
In the spring of 1876 , Dr. Conway went to Texas with the view of
locating, but came back to Boone county iu 1878 and settled at
Stephens' station , where he is now practicing his profession and
rapidly building up a good business. They have two children : Fred
erick R., born September 14 , 1876 , and Julia , born April 10 , 1881.
The doctor is not a inember of any church . Mrs. Conway is a mem
ber of the Methodist Church South . Gen. Frederick R.Conway , the

father of the subject of this sketch , was a man of considerable promi
nence . He was born in -Green county , Tennessee , July 4 , 1799. He
was a grandson of Col. Henry Conway, of the Revolutionary war , and
the son of Judge Thomas Conway , who moved to Howard county ,
Missouri, in 1818 , where he remained until his death in 1836. In
early manhood Gen. Conway served as clerk in the office of his uncle ,
William Rector , surveyor- general ofMissouri and Illinois, also deputy
United States surveyor of public lands. In 1830 he was appointed
United States recorder of land titles in St. Louis, an office created by
Congress for the purpose of settling claimsunder French and Spanish
grants in the territory of Louisiana. He moved to Boone county in
1849. Hewas one of seven brothers, two of whom , James S. and Elias
N., were governors of the same State ( Arkansas ), an incident without a
parallel in the history of this country . Henry W., the eldest brother ,
was an officer in the United States army. While stationed in Arkan
sas territory he resigned and was elected a delegate to Congress.

Pending a subsequent election , he was killed in a duel. Dr. John R.,
another brother, was a surveyor of public lands and commissioner to
define the boundary line between Texas and Arkansas. William , the
fifth brother, was supreme judge of Arkansas . Thomas , the sixth
brother , was a merchant. He died at Huntsville , Missouri , when
quite a young man . Ex-Governor Elias Conway is the only sur
viving brother . He is now living at Little Rock , Arkansas. There
were three sisters. One became the wife of William Shields, another
married a man named Runkle . The third is Mrs. Gen. William Pel
ham , living near Austin , Texas. Gen. Conway first married a widow
named Smith . By this union they had one son . She dying a short
time after her marriage, he wedded Martha Collins. There were five
children by this union : Lucy A., Thomas F., a lawyer in Santa Fe,
New Mexico ; Andrew M., Mary E., deceased , and Francis H., who
is now running a cotton plantation on the Arkansas river, near Little

Rock .
JAMES WILLIAM CONLEY .
James William Conley , son of John and Belila (Weldon ) Conley ,

was born in Boone county , Missouri, May 11 , 1835. He was brought
up on the farm and educated at the common schools of the country.
Married , November 5 , 1857, Miss. Anna E., daughter of Orastus and
Mary (Summers ) Reid . By this uniou they have nine children , one
son and eight daughters , all of whom are living : Mollie B., born
December 22 , 1858 ; Maggie Lee , born September 3 , 1861 ; Mattie and
Minnie , born December 16 , 1863 ; Alva N., born April 19 , 1867 ;
Alvin , born July 15 , 1870 ; Rosa , B., born November 20 , 1873 ; Genie,
born January 21 , 1877 ; Roy , born December 13 , 1879. Mr. Couley
taught school in Boone county , beginning in the spring of 1855 and
continuing until 1862 , In 1870–71, run a saw -mill on the old Prather
farm , seven and one-half miles northeast of Columbia , on Clay's Fork .
Since 1871 he has followed farming continuously up to the present
time. He owns a fine farm of 300 acres , seven miles northeast of
Columbia , on the Middletown road . The farm is well watered and
timbered . He has lived on this farm since 1858. He has improved
the place to the very best advantage . A large portion of the land is
in grass and woodland pasture . He devotes about one hundred acres
to corn , wheat and oats . He has two of the finest sugar orchards in
the county . Has a good coal mine, the vein being from three to four
feet in thickness. It was opened some time in 1850. Mr. Conley is
a member of the Masonic order , also a Patron of Husbandry . He is a

member of the Oakland Christian church . Four of his daughters
are members of the same church .
HUGH DEVIER ,
Is a son of Allen and Nancy ( Turley ) Devier ; was born May 17 , 1818 ,
in Rockingham county, Virginia . He is the third of a family of ten
children . His father, Allen Devier, was born in Rockingham county ,
Virginia , in the year 1787, and died August, 1850. His mother was
also a native of the same county and died in 1861. They are buried
in the county in which they were born , married and died . Hugh
received his education in Augusta and Rockingham counties, Virginia .
He lived at home with his parents until he was thirty years of age,
when , in the spring of 1848, he came to Boone county , Missouri, and
settled on the farm that was bought by his grandfather, Wm . Devier ,
of Christian county , Kentucky, in 1818 , for $ 2.50 per acre . When
Hugh took charge of the place it was a wild timbered tract, never
having heard the ring of the ax , or felt the glebe of the plow . By
hard work and skilful manageinent it has been transformed into one
of the best farms in the county , containing 428 acres, six milos north
east of Columbia , on the range line road . Mr. Devier was a large
dealer in cattle and hogs from 1861 to 1880 . He was married March
2 , 1847, to Miss Alcinda E., daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Keller )
Miller, from Strasburg , Virginia . By this union they have eight
children , five boys and three girls : James William , Sarah V., Jacob
A., Hugh J., Mary E., Hiram K., Stonewall J., and Nancy T., and
are all living at home except James William , who lives in Denton
county , Texas . Himself, wife and four of their children are members
of the Missionary Baptist church . His brother , Giles Devier , is edi
tor of the Rockingham Register, of Rockingham county, Virginia ,
established in 1832.
SAMUEL DINWIDDIE .
The subject of this sketch is the son of Samuel and Patsy (McBride)
Dinwiddie. He was born in Boone county , Missouri, October 25th ,
1845. He was educated at the district schools, attending the old
brick school house , four miles east of Columbia , and what was known
as the Old White school house , four miles southeast of Columbia .
Mr. Dinwiddie was married November 11th , 1868, to Hettie , daughter
ofWm . H. and Missouri Hickam Garrett, of Linn county , Missouri.
He is a farmer , and has followed agricultural pursuits all his life . He
resides on the old farm bought by his father in 1840, situated on

the Columbia and Cedar creek rock road . He is a member of the
Olivet Christian church . His wife , who died May 21st, 1882, was
a member of the same church .
JAMES M'BRIDE DINWIDDIE .
The subject of this sketch is the son of Samuel and Patsy (McBride)
Dinwiddie, and was born in Lincoln connty , Kentucky, May 11th ,
1839. His parents were natives of Kentucky, and emigrated to
Boone county , Missouri, when James was about a year old , and settled
the place upon which his son Samuel is now living, about four miles
east ofColumbia . SamuelDinwiddie was a tanner by trade, but followed
farming after he came to Missouri until his death in 1865. His
wife , our subject's mother , died in 1868, and they are buried upon
the old homestead . They had nine children . James McBride has
lived in Boone county all his life , save one year spent in Illinois dur
ing the war . He was educated in the country schools principally ,
going one term to the University . He wasmarried May 11th , 1862,
to Miss Kate , daughter of William Moseley . By this union they have
had nine children : William S., Mary Irene, Clara Moseley , John ,
Julia , Ella , James , Charles and Thomas . Mr. and Mrs. Dinwiddie
are members of the Christian church , and he is a member of the
Knights of Honor at Columbia . He is of Scotch - Irish descent, and a
life - long Democrat. Has farmed all his life , and been quite successful .
He has a fine farm , and is accounted one of the substantial citizens of
the county
JAMES C. DYSART.
James C. Dysart , son of Madison and Maria (Cowan ) Dysart , was

born in Callaway county , Missouri, September 21st , 1836. He came
to Boone county with his parents in 1838 . He was educated at the
common schools of the county , and worked on the farm until 1857,
when he was engaged as a salesman at Burlington by J. C.
Thompson . The business was afterwards moved to Sturgeon , and
he continued with Thompson for a while . Then he forined a part
nership with a man named Croswhite, in the dry goods business. He
continued with Croswhite until 1861, when the partnership was dis
solved , and he continued the business alone until 1864 , when he
sold out and removed to Helena, Montana Territory , where he
opened a grocery store. He went by steamer from St. Louis . On
the way the vessel sunk near Omaha . His family then returned
--
home, while he continued his journey on board another steaner .

He landed at Helena City July 12th , 1865 , and opened a grocery store
which he rau until September of that year . He also engaged in min
ing , having an interest in a quartz mill. Leaving Helena in Septem
ber, he went to Fort Benton . There he took passage on a flat -boat
for Sioux City , Iowa, and from there to St. Joseph , Missouri, trav
elled by stage. Returning to Boone county , he engaged in farming
near Hallsville in 1867 . He continued in the business for about a
year , when he came to Brown's Station and engaged in the general

mercantile business under the firm name of Dysart & Turner. One
year later the firm was dissolved , Mr. Dysart buying Turner's interest
in the business . He ran the store alone for one year , when he took
W. A. Goodding in partnership , the firm name being Dysart & Good
ding . Two years later Mr. Dysart bought out Mr.Goodding's inter
est, and has since conducted the business alone. He has a good
trade , and is doing well. In connection with the store he is running a
saw and grist mill, in partnership with James L. Henry . Mr. Dysart
was married January 4th, 1849, to Miss Mary E., daughter of Lewis
and Sallie (Barnes ) Reid , daughter of Elder James Barnes . By this
union they have eight children , five sons and three daughters, six of
whom are living. One of the sons, George R., received severe inju
ries while raking hay , August 5th , 1882, from which he died the day
following
BERKLEY ESTES (DECEASED ) .
This gentleman, though now numbered with the dead , will be re

membered by many as an old settler of Boone county . Mr. Estes
was the son of Richard Estes , of Virginia , and was born in Spottsyl
vania county , of that State, in 1797, and resided in his native State
during youth . He came to this State and county in 1827 , having
been reared and educated in Virginia , where he was also married .
On February 5th , 1826 , he was married to Miss Malinda Estes , and
on her deats , was a second time married to Miss Mary Smith , April
24th , 1839. He was by trade a brick -layer , though he farmed for
many years after coming to Missouri. He bought a farm in this coun
ty , three miles southeast of Columbia , on the Cedar Creek road .
When the “ War of '12 ” came on , Mr. Estes was just of the suitable
age to take part in that brief struggle against England , and he seryed
his country faithfully under Commodore Barry . By nis first wife he
had five children , four daughters and a son , of whom only one — Mar
garet E., wife of John R. Boulton — is living at this writing. By the
second marriage , Mr. Estes was the father of three boys and one girl,
of whom William B., and R. S. Estes still survive. Mr. Estes de
parted this life , July 29th , 1869, and he and his wife are both buried
in the family burying ground on the old homestead .
RICHARD SAMUEL ESTES
Is the son of Berkley Estes, deceased , and was born in Boone county
May 27, 1847. He was educated in his native county , and was mar
ried , April 6th , 1869, to Cordelia , daughter of John and Margaret
Carlisle. He has followed farming and stock raising, and is living on
the old homestead . The farm contains 257 acres , mostly in grass .
Mr. and Mrs. Estes have six children , three boys and three girls , all
living at this writing . He and wife are both members of the Olivet
Christian church . There is a splendid coal bank on his farm of a good
quality , which will of course be fully worked at some future time. A
stream of clear water , called Limestone Creek , runs through his place ,
and affords abundant water for his stock .
ARCHIBALD TURNER GARTH .
Mr. Garth is the son of John R. and Kate M. ( Turner ) Garth and
was born in Boone county , Missouri, February 24th , 1852. His father
John Robert Garth , was born in Fayette county , Kentucky, November
10th , 1827. Hewas married in Boone county , Missouri, in January ,
1851, to Miss Catherine M. Turner . He was one of Columbia's most
enterprising merchants and best citizens. He died suddenly on the
23d of July , 1877, at the residence of his son , A. T. Garth , and is bur
ied at the Columbia cemetery . Our subject, A. Turner Garth , was
educated at the State University and at Bryant & Stratton's Com
mercial College, of St. Louis . In 1873 and 1874 he was engaged in
the boot and shoe business in Columbia , and in 1877 and 1878 he was
with R. H. Clinkscales in the grocery business . In the spring of
1880 he went back upon the farm and has dealt largely in stock ever
since . He handles none but the best blood , and has shipped many
young cattle to Kansas and other Western States . He is interested in
a very large herd of cattle in Dickerson county , Kansas , and in the

spring of 1881 he shipped an extra large lot of stock to the West .
He and his brother , S. T. Garth , have a very large farm , well ap
pointed in all modern improvements and well stocked with thorough
breds. The home farm is called the Rose - Bud Herd Farm , and is one
of the best upon the celebrated Two-mile prairie . Mr. Garth wasmar
ried October the 8th , 1872 to Miss Ella M., daughter of I. W. and A.
B. McDonald , of Kansas City . They are blest with one child , Ro
berta B. Mr. and Mrs. Garth are members of the Christian church
and he is a member of the A. O. U. W.society .
R. BROWN GANS.
R. B. Gans, the celebrated optician and telescope maker, was born

in Fayette county , Pennsylvania , July 2d , 1819. He was educated
at the common schools of the county , and among other things learned
the cabinet -maker's trade from his father , who was a skilfulmechanic .
He followed this business until the war . About the year 1847, and while
yet a citizen of Pennsylvania , he commenced work as an optician . He
made some twelve telescopes , one ofwhich he sold to Waynesburg Col
ege , Green county , Pennsylvania . After coming to Boone county he
resumed the business . Hemade the one now in use at the Christian
Female College, Columbia , worth $ 1,000 . He has one now in course
of construction which will, when finished , be worth $ 2,000 . It will
be an equatorial instrument, worked by a clockwork governor , ten
feet focal length , and seven inches clear aperture . It will be provided
with fifteen eye pieces of various kinds, together with a pull-rising
eye -piece and micrometer . It will be mounted on a heavy iron col
umn of a half-ton weight, with right ascension and declination circle
to five seconds. He also has a small instrument already complete .
It is fifty - seven inches focal length and three and one-fourth inches
aperture. It is mounted in brass on a heavy try -rod, together with
finder and four eye-pieces, possessing a magnifying power of from six
ty to two hundred times . It is adjusted by rack and pivot and end
less screw . This instrument is valued at two hundred dollars . Mr.
Gans imports his glass from the same firm that supplies Clark & Son ,
of Cambridgeport , Massachussetts . He furnished one telescope to
Dr. Isaac Ridge, of Kansas City , in 1881, for which he received two
hundred dollars . He has an invention of his own for grinding and
polishing his glasses and lenses. The old method of grinding by
hand took the timeand trouble to grind one glass that he would de
vote to five, and his process is more accurate and better . He has a
machine lathe, made by Sheppard , of Cincinnati, which cost him two
hundred dollars .
KOBERT PARKS GLENN .
The subject of this sketch is the son of Moses T. and Elizabeth

(Cowan ) Glenn , and was born May 24th , 1826 , in Nicholas county ,
Kentucky. His father , Moses Glenn , was born March 26th , 1791, in
Fleming county , Kentucky , and died in March , 1866. His mother
was born in Nicholas county , Kentucky, May 15th , 1795 ; died in
1879, and is buried by the side of her husband in the county of her
birth . They had eight children , six boys and two girls. Sarah P.,
born March 24th , 1825 ; Robert P., born May 24th , 1826 ; Nancy
A., born November 24th , 1827 ; Thos. J., born May 5th , 1829 ; Johu
H.,born February 11th , 1831 ; Archibald M., born February 8th , 1833,
and died at Memphis in 1867 ; Moses A., born December 15 , 1834 ; and
James M., born January 12th , 1837. Robert P., the second ofthe eight
children , was educated in his native county . He lived upon the farm
with his father, and took the general management of the farm , which
was a very large one , being composed of just one thousand acres .
He lived at home till he was twenty years of age, then , in 1855 , he
ran a saw and grist mill in Nicholas county, Kentucky, on Fleming
creek , known as the Pleasant Valley mills . After running the mills
satisfactorily for three years, he came to Audrain county , Missouri,
and rented a farm upon which he raised one crop . He then bought a
farm in Boone county , ten miles northeast of Columbia , between the
old St. Charles and Mexico roads, known as the Fuller Allen farm ,
where he still resides . The farm contains four hundred and eighty
acres, and is one of the best improved farms in Boone county , being
regarded as the model farm of the Two -mile prairie. He has five
miles of hedge upon the place , making an impassable barrier for
unruly stock . He has a fine house , and his fields are all well-watered .
His stock consists of pedigreed short-horn cattle, Cotswold sheep
and Berkshire hogs. He is a dealer in mules , handling , on an
average , eighty head per year . He was married , May 1st, 1856 ,
to Miss Amanda F., daughter of John and Kitty (Squires )
Hall, of Nicholas county , Kentucky . They have four children ;
John H., Moses F., Sallie and Robert B., all living . Himself,
wife and danghter are members of the Christian church . Mrs.
Glenn's father , John Hall , was born in
Nicholas county ,
Kentucky, May 8th , 1801. Her mother , Kitty Squires, was born in
Fauquier county , Virginia , March 15th , 1808. Their children were :
Margaret Elizabeth , born December 30th , 1829 ; Cynthia Ealin , born
January 16th , 1832 ; Mary Catharine , born July 27th , 1834 ; Amanda
Frances , born July 26th , 1836 ; Mildred Ann , born June 23d , 1838 ;
Harriet Stout, born April 18th , 1840 ; Caroline Amelia , born April
25th , 1842 ; Judith Ann , born July 1st , 1844 ; Laura , born September
20th , 1846 , and died January 29th , 1849 ; Sarah Jane, born January
4th , 1849 ; Robert Henry , born January 6th , 1855. Mrs. Glenn's
grandfather was James Hall, born in Ireland, May 5th , 1753, and
died February 7th , 1835. His wife, Elizabeth ( Johnson ) Hall, was
born December 28th , 1759, and died July 7th , 1839. Her grand
father upon her mother's side was Micajah Squires , born February
4th , 1770 , and was murdered near St. Louis in 1819. His wife ,
Margaret Turley , was born October 3d , 1775 , and died in August ,
1858. They were both born in Virginia .
B. GORDON .
Boyle Gordon is a native of Madison county , Kentucky, the home

of many of our best citizens , and the native county of the parents of
many more . There is scarcely a neighborhood in Boone but has
representatives from this guod old county , which gave so liberally of
her best citizens to people Boone and other counties of Missouri. It
seems strange that so many people could have left one county without
in a great measure depopulating it. Visitors from that portion of
Kentucky are forcibly impressed with the similarity of the people of
Boone as compared with their own . The reason is obvious : Central
Kentucky is virtually the parent of Boone county , and the resem
blance is the natural result of a natural cause . Mr. Gordon was
born December 8th , 1825 , and came to Boone county in the fall of
1826. He remained in Columbia until 1840, when he returned to
Kentucky, where he remained for three years attending school. He
returned to Boone, and entered the old Columbia Seminary , finishing
his education at the State University . At the age of twenty -five
he commenced the study of law in the office of his father , John Boyle
Gordon , then a prominent attorney at the Columbia bar. Was
admitted to the practice of law when twenty -seven years of age , and
followed the profession without intermission until he retired from
practice in 1872. He was appointed assistant professor of law in the
State University , which position he holds at this writing . Mr.
Gordon was first married , in 1863 , to Miss Susan Watson , of Ralls
county , Missouri.. She did not survive their marriage but one year ,
dying in 1864 He was elected to the Legislature from Columbia
district in 1864 , serving two sessions. In 1875 , Governor Hardin
appointed him judge of the Boone county court , which office he
declined . Mr Gordon has been quite successful in the practice of
law . From 1856 to 1862, he was in partnership with General Guitar ,
the firm commanding all the practice they could well attend to . July
10th , 1867 , Mr. Gordon was married to Ann Gentry , daughter of
Col. Richard Gentry , who was killed in the Florida war . Mr.
Gordon owns a nice farm one and one half miles southeast of Columbia
on the Columbia and Ashland gravel road . The farm contains three
hundred acres well improved and pleasantly situated . During the

war Mr. Gordon was a consistent Union man , but took no part in the
struggle . Since the war he has voted the Democratic ticket. He is
a member of the Preshyterian church , having united with that denom
ination more than forty years ago . Mr. Gordon has had two
children by his second wife. His daughter Annie , died April 5th ,
1879 . His son . Marshall, boru April 6th , 1869, is still living . The
remains of the old Black mill, one of the first water mills ever
erected in Boone county , is situated on Mr. Gordon's place . It was
built as far back as 1839. It is situated on the Hinkson Creek .
Mr. Gordon has a fine collection of Indian pottery , arrow -heads and
stone axes , and takes much interest in those relics. He is an affable
gentleman , firm in his opinions and resolute in maintaining them .
CAPT. DAVID GUITAR .
The subject of this sketch was born in Richmond , Madison county ,

Kentucky, May 1st, 1827 , and came to Boone county , Missouri, in
the fall of 1829. His parents were John and Emily (Gordon ) Guitar.
John Guitar was born in Agen , France, and emigrated to the United
States in 1819 , landing first in New York , wbere he remained for two
years . From New York he went to Richmond , Kentucky, where he
was married , in 1824, to Miss Emily Gordon , daughter of David and
Mary Jane ( Boyle ) Gordon . The mother of Mrs. Guitar was
native of Madison county , Kentucky, and a sister of Judge Boyle , of
Danville, Kentucky. Johu Guitar was engaged in the mercantile
business previous to coming to Columbia , Missouri. On his arrival
here , he resumed his former occupation , selling dry goods and
jewelry . He was actively engaged in this business from 1829 up
to the time of his death , which occurred in 1848. He is buried at the
old family burying ground on what is known as the Old Widow
Gordon farm , east of Columbia .. Mrs. Guitar died in 1847 , and is
buried by the side of her husband. Capt .Guitar was educated partly
at the old Columbia College, finishing his studies at the Missouri
State University , being one among the first students of that institu
tion . In 1847 he enlisted in the Mexican war , serving for one year.
In 1849 he went overland to California , where he remained for three

years.. Returning to Columbia , he engaged in the mercantile
business under the firm name of Baker & Guitar. He followed this
business for seven years , when he sold out to his partner , G. F.

Baker. In the spring of 1860 he removed to the farm he now
occupies, two'miles northeast of Columbia . During the war he was
captain of a militia company under Gen. Douglass . After the war, be
continued farming until 1869, when he entered the firm of Anderson ,
Conly & Co., proprietors of the Columbia Mills. He followed this
business for eight years , returning to his farm in 1876. Capt. Guitar
was married , October 25th , 1854 , to Miss Harriet , daughter of
Ferdinand and Martha (Bradley ) Herndon , of Nashville, Tennessee.
The father ofMrs. Guitar was an officer in the war of 1812. Hewas
born in Fredricksburg , Virginia . By this union they have had ten
children , eight of whom , five sons and three daughters, are still living .
Their names are : James G., David G., Elizabeth , William , Martha
H., John , Harriet and Eddie .
ISAAC LOYD HADEN .
The subject of this notice is the son of Turner R. and Sarah Ann
( Loyd ) Haden , and was born August 11th , 1854 , in Boone county ,
Missouri. His father came from Scott county, Kentucky , to Boone
county , Missouri, about 1825 or 1826 , and settled on what is now
known as the Bedford farm . He was a farmer , and died in January ,
1879. Mrs. Haden , the mother of Isaac Loyd Haden , is still living ,
aged fifty -seven . They reared a family of nine children , three boys
and six girls. Our subject , Isaac , is the fourth child and second son .
Isaac was born four miles northeast of Columbia . He was educated
in his native county at what is known as the Kennan school house .
He lived at home until he was twenty - one years of age, when he mar
ried Miss Myra Gillespie , daughter of Robert and Sophia ( Barnes )
Gillespie. By this union they have two children , a boy and girl,
Wm . Porter and Sallie . He and his wife are members of the Chris
tian church at Hickory Grove , Callaway county, Missouri. He has a
good farm upon the Columbia and Concord road , ten miles northeast
of Columbia . The soil is a black loam , and raises the very finest
wheat and corn in the vicinity .
JOEL HARRIS HADEN .
Joel H. Haden , one of Boone county's most successful citizens, is

the son of Turuer R. and Rebecca Haden , and was born in Scott
county , Kentucky; September 12th , 1811. He came to Boone county
in the fall of 1828 , and rented a farm two and a half miles northeast
of Columbia , now known as the Lenoir farm . He was first married
to Miss Sarah Cave , daughter of Richard and Martha ( Cave ) Talbott.
By this marriage they have one child , Margaret, who is the wife of
John W. Carter , of Boone county . Mr. Haden's first wife died May
15th , 1835 . He was again married July 4th , 1838 , to Miss Zerelda ,
daughter of James and Maria Kirtley . Two sons were born of this
union , James W.and Turner R. S. The second wife having died No
vember 3d , 1870, Mr. Haden was married September 28th , 1872, to
Sarah, sister of the second wife. Mr. Haden has always followed
farming. His farm is one of the best in the county. He has a fine
residence , beautifully situated on the Columbia and Blackfoot rock
road, one and a half miles north of the city . Mr. Haden is in every
sense of the word a self-made man, having accumulated a large for
tune by his individual effort. His home place contains 900 acres. In
addition to this he owns 600 acres elsewhere, besides much other valu
able property , all of which he accumulated by hard labor and good
management. Mr. Haden is at this writing seventy -one years old ,
but looks to be not over fifty .
EDWARD D. HENRY .
The subject of this sketch is the son of John Todd and Sarah
(Keene ) Henry . He was born in Scott county , Kentucky, March 14 ,
1812 . Was educated in the common district schools of the country .
Came to Boone county , Missouri, with his mother, in the fall of 1826 ,
and settled on a farm five and one-half miles northeast of Columbia ,
where he remained until he was twenty -two years old . Then went
from home to learn the trade of brick -laying under J. G. Keene and
David Neal. In 1837 returned to Kentucky , in company with his
brother , where he remained for one year . When work was com
menced on the Missouri State University he was employed to lay
brick , building the front wall of that institution . He helped to lay
the first brick that were placed in the University . In 1841 he, in
company with Henry Keene, forined a partnership for making and
laying brick . He continued in this business for about six years. He
was married July 7th , 1852 , to Miss Susan , daughter of Gabriel and
Elizabeth Parker. By this union they have had three sons and two
daughters. Lizzie L., born May 20 , 1853 ; Mary , born October 15th ,
1856 ; Edward P., born Septeinber 7th , 1860 ; William Todd , born
March 11th , 1867, died October 15th , 1877 ; Robert , born May 10th ,
1862, died May 11th , 1864. In 1849 Mr. Henry bought the farm
upon which he now lives, containing 216 acres. This farm is well
watered and timbered , and is in every respect finely improved . Mr.
Henry is an official member of the Presbyterian church and has
been for thirty -three years. Mrs. Henry is also a member of the
same. Her father , Gabriel Parker , died February 24th , 1880, at the
advanced age of eighty -eight years. Her mother , Mrs. Parker ,

died March 1st , 1864.
JOHN TODD HENRY , JR . , DECEASED .
John Todd Henry , Jr., deceased , was the son of John Todd Henry ,
Sr., and Sarah ( Keene) Henry . John Todd Henry , Sr., was a
native of Charlotte county , Virginia , and was born in 1762. He
graduated at Prince Edward College, Virginia , now Hampden Sid
ney . He emigrated to Scott county , Kentucky, and was president of
a college in Georgetown , where he died , February 23d , 1822. His
wife was born in Maryland , in 1782, and moved to Scott county ,
Kentucky, with her parents , when a child . She came to Boone
county , Missouri, in 1826 , where she died in 1860. They had four
sons and four daughters . Two children , one son and one daughter,
are dead . The living have all resided in Boone for fifty -six years, and
in the same neighborhood. The oldest member of the family is
Samuel L.Henry , who is now in his eighty -second year. John Todd
Henry , Jr., was born inScott county , Kentucky , August 5th , 1803 ,
and was educated at the common schools of his native county. In
early manhood he was constable of his township , and from 1826 to
1828 , was deputy sheriff of Scott county , Kentucky . He was mar
ried , February 25th , 1834 , to Miss Harriet, daughter of Capt. Francis
and Elizabeth (Gordon ) Coleman . The father of Mrs. Henry was a
captain in the Revolutionary army. She was born December 21st,
1811. She is the only one living of a family of seven children . Mr.
and Mrs. Henry have had seven children , two of whom died in infancy .
The names of the living are John T., Samuel W., Sarab. E., Robert
E., and Emma. Mr. Henry came to Boone county in 1834 , and set
tled on the farm upon which he died , August 5th , 1882. The farm is
situated six miles northeast of Columbia , and consists of 440 acres ,
finely improved . When he settled this place there were but twelve
acres of cleared land , the rest of the farm being in the woods. Mr.
Henry was a member of the Methodist church . Mrs. Henry is a

member of that church also .
JAMES LAWRENCE HENRY .
James Lawrence Henry , Jr., son of Dr. James L. and Mary A.

( Barnard ) Henry, was born in Easton , Washington county , New
York , September 22d , 1839 , and was educated at Greenwich , which
is also in Washington county . In 1856 he left his native State, going
first to Farmington , Iowa, where he worked one year in the machine
shops, then to Knox county , Missouri, where he worked in the milling
business eighteen months under the firm name of Hill & Henry .
Selling out his interest in the mill he went to Macon City , Missouri,
where he acted as superintendent of a livery stable owned by Harry
Wortz . He remained in this business until 1859 , when he came to
Boone county and drove the Columbia and Sturgeon stage for Leonard
& Burks until the spring of 1860 , when he engaged in the steam saw
mill business . He removed the mill from near Centralia to Hinkson
creek , ten miles northeast of Columbia . He ran this mill until March ,
1861, when he went to farming one mile east of Brown's Station . He
was married March 10th , 1861, to Frances S., daughter of James and
Louisa ( Ridgway ) Lampton . By this union they had seven children ,
two sons and five daughters . Mary L., born February 5th , 1862,
died August 23d , 1866 ; Eunice B., born November 12th , 1868 ; John
L., born April 13th , 1871 ; Susan G., born July 6th , 1873 ; James C.,
born July 19th , 1876 , died May 11th , 1878 ; Marion L., born Feb
ruary 7th , 1879, and Elizabeth R., born February 23d , 1881. Mr.
Henry enlisted in the Confederate army in 1861 under Capt. Robert

L. Maupin , then again under Capt. Amos Hulett. After several at
tempts to reach the army, he was captured in the summer of 1862, and
confined in prison at St. Louis, Alton and Washington City . In the
spring of 1863 he was exchanged and sent to City Point, Virginia .
From there he went West and joined Capt. Harvey G. McKinney's
company, of which he was made first sergeant. Was ordered to
Boonia station , near Vicksburg , where he was attached to company
H , of the Fifth regiment, commanded by Col. James McCown. Was
in the battle near Vicksburg , May 15th , 1863. May 18th , 1864 ,
joined Johnston's army at Kingston, and participated in the battle of
New Hope church . He also took part in Hood's raid on Nashville .
Was wounded at Altoona station . His brigade was captured at the
siege of Fort Blakely and sent to Ship Island , in the Gulf of Mexico .
They were afterwards taken to Vicksburg and exchanged . He sur

rendered under Gen. Dick Taylor , May 12th , 1865. In 1873 he built
the mill called by his name, situated on Rocky Fork , six miles north
of Columbia . Since returning from the war he has followed milling
and farming . He is now engaged in the milling business at Brown's
Station , in partnership with J. C. Dysart. In 1878 he made the race
for assessor , but was beaten seventy -nine votes by M.G.Quinn . He
was a candidate in 1880 before the primary election , but was again
defeated . He is master of the Hallsville Grange, also a member of

the Hallsville Masonic lodge, and of the K. P. lodge, Columbia . He
and his wife are members of the Christian church . His father died in
Troy, New York in 1843. His mother is now living at Fox Lake,
Wisconsin .
L. P. HICKAM .
Lycurgus P. Hickam's parents, Ezekiel and Nancy ( Sims) Hickam ,

were natives of the “ Old Dominion ,'' but emigrated to Missouri in
an early day . L. P. Hickam was born in Boone county , February
26th , 1830. He was raised on the farm , ind is himself a well-to -do
farmer. His farm , consisting of 430 acres, is situated three miles
southwest of Columbia , on the old Providence and Columbia plank
road . His land is all under fence , and is well watered and timbered .
The homestead is conveniently situated and is esteemed one of the
most desirable in that vicinity . Mr. Hickam is a member of the
Masonic order and a communicant of the Baptist church . He has
been a church member for fifteen years, and at this writing is a
deacon of the Bethel church .
JUDGE JOSEPH W. HICKAM .
Judge Joseph W. Hickam has probably spent more years in public

life than any other man now living in Boone county . From early
inanhood to old age he has served his county in almost every capacity .
He is the son of John and Christian Hickam , and was born in Wash
ington county , Virginia . When about twelve years old he came to
the territory of Missouri, and to what was then called Howard county ,
the Territory being then divided into four or five grand divisions , of
which Howard county was one of the subdivisions . All of Boone
county was then included in Howard . Judge Hickam landed at
Head's Fort in the fall of 1816 , and the spring following came to
Boone county, and settled on the farin now owned by Birch Hunt, situ
ated in the river bottom . He remained on this place until the spring of
49
1819, when he moved to a place four miles south of Coluınbia . This

farm , consisting of 320 acres , was bought from the goverument by
Judge Hickam's father. The elder Hickam had five sons and four
daughters . Of this family , only four are now living . John Hickam
was one of the earliest settlers of Boone county , and was an indus
trious enterprising citizen , a man possessed of many strong points of
character . He left his children about ten thousand acres of land .
Judge Hickam's opportunities for securing an education were quite

limited , from the fact that he left Virginia at an early age, and there
were no schools in Missouri at the time he came to this State . He
attended a subscription school for six months . Was afterwards for
twelve months a pupil of a school ta ught by Elijah Hart , an uncle of
Thomas H. Benton . He next attended Washington College at Jones
borough, Tennessee, for a few months. His public life commenced
at the age of sixteen , when he was elected captain of a militia coni
pany. He cast his first vote for Andrew Jackson , and has always
been a Democrat . Was commissioned a justice of the peace by Gov.
Miller in 1827, and served in that capacity for many years . In 1832
he was elected county court judge , and was presiding justice during
a portion of the term . Was engrossing clerk of the lower house of
the Missouri legislature from 1834 to 1839. From 1839 to 1858 he
was superintendent of bridge building in Boone county . He also
held the office of school commissioner until 1859, when he was ap
pointed assessor by the county court. During the war he held no
position but that of justice of the peace . Judge Hickam was first
married to Miss Turley , of Madison county , Kentucky. By this
union they had one daughter , Emeline, now the widow of Cornelius
Maupin . The first wife having died in 1865, he was again married ,
July 4 , 1867, to Malinda J., daughter of Maj. John and Temperance
(Wright) Barclay, of. Boone county . They have no children . Judge
Hickam is not a member of any church nor of any secret society .
His recollections of border life are of the most interesting and thrill
ing nature. Since retiring from the active duties of life he has lived
quietly on his fine farm of 600 acres , one mile west of Columbia and
one-fourth mile south of the gravel road , which has been his home
for fifty -four years . He has been a prominent man all his life and
is widely known and universally respected , as he deserves to be.
Nearly the whole of his busy life has been spent in the service of his
fellow -men , and his labors will survive him . Such men cannot be
forgotten .
DAVID A. JACOBS
Was born in Boone county , Missouri, July 29, 1856, on the old home
stead settled by his father , Dr. G.R. Jacobs, whose biography is also
published in this volume. David was educated at the Virginia Mili
tary Iustitute and at the St. Louis University . He also attended
school at Lexington ,Kentucky. He was married on the 14th ofMarch ,
1878 , to Miss Belle Rollins, daughter of John C. Rollins (deceased ) ,
and niece of the Hon . J. S. Rollins, of Columbia . They have two
children — Wayne R. and Louisa M. Jacobs ; has always been a farmer ,
and owns a large farm of 520 acres six miles east of Columbia , most
of which is sown in bluegrass . At this writing Mr. Jacobs is giving
his attention to raising live stock , both sheep and cattle . He is a mem
ber of the Catholic church , and Mrs. Jacobs belongs to the Episcopal
church , of Columbia .
DR . GEORGE RODNEY JACOBS , DECEASED .
The eminent gentleman now numbered with the dead -- whose

name beads this sketch was a native of Nelson county , Virginia , and
was born February 20 , 1802. He was educated at New Glasgow Acad
emy, Amherst county , Virginia , and studied medicine in the office of
an eminent physician of that State . After a two years' course of read
ing, he attended the medical college at Philadelphia for two years ;
he received the degree of M. D. from the University of Pennsylvania ,
and returned to his old home to begin the practice. He quit themed
ical practice in 1832 and emigrated to Missouri. Dr. Jacobswas mar
ried in 1835 , in Hampshire county , Virginia , to Miss Louisa Parsons .
In 1845 he moved to Louisiana and located twenty miles from New Or
leans, where he remained seven years. Returning then to Missouri,
he settled in Boone county, where he resided till the time of his death ,
which occurred February 24 , 1877.
R. T. JOHNSTON .
Robert Thomas Johnston is the son of Robert and Ann Johuston ,

and was born in Howard county , Missouri, January 10 , 1829. In
1831 he came to Boone county , where he remained until he was fifteen
years old ; he returned to Howard county and clerked for two years in
his brother Joel's store , at Fayette . Ho then returned to his home in
Boone county , where he was married , December , 1851, to Julia , daugh
ter of Joseph and Elizabeth Johnston . Mr. Johnston has lived on his
present farm , three miles south of Columbia , for thirty - one years . He
is a member of the Bonne Femme Missionary Baptist church . Mrs.
Johnston is also a member of the same church .
FRANCIS MARION JOHNSON .
Francis M. Johnson is the son of Samuel and Margaret Johnson ;

he was born in Boone county , Missouri, June 8 , 1834, on the old home
stead settled and owned by his father , one mile north of where the
subject of this sketch now lives. The old house is still standing on
the Hivkson . Mr. Johnson was raised and educated in Boone county ;
hewas first married in May, 1858 , his wife dying in the month of Jan
uary following. March 22 , 1864 , he was again married , this time to
Miss Bettie, daughter of Thomas and Margaret (Stewart ) Cox . By
this marriage they had eight children - two sons and six daughters :
Maggie , born January 10 , 1866 ; Mary E., born June 12 , 1867 ; Wil
liam T., born May 29, 1869 ; Frank L., born November 13 , 1872 ;
Minnie D., born April 26 , 1875 ; Mattie E., born April 8 , 1877 ; Ame
lia B., born February 5 , 1879, and Bertha G., born January 17 , 1882.
Mr. Johnson spent one year in California , returning to Boone county
in 1850 ; farmed for two years, then erected a saw -mill, devoting four
years to this business ; then , in partnership with a man named Parker ,
bought a herd of 1,400 sheep , which they took to Texas . Returning,
be formed a partnership with Mr. Hickman for building and operating
a steam grist mill near Stephens station ; was connected with this
business for five years . In 1870 he traded his interest in the mill and
a farm near Stephens station to Robert Smith for the farm which he
(Mr. Johnson ) now occupies, consisting of 370 acres, three miles

northeast of Columbia , on the Mexico and Columbia road . There is
a fine coal mine on this place , the vein being three and one-half feet
in thickness , and of excellent quality . The farm is mostly in grass ,
and is well adapted to stock raising. Mr. Johnson is a member of
the Christian church at Antioch . Mr. Johnson's father came to Boone
county in 1824 ; he was a native of Scott county , Kentucky ; he died
in 1868, and is buried at the old Hinkson Baptist church . Mrs.
Johnson died in 1835 — about one year after the birth of Francis M.
and was buried at the same place .
ALFRED KEENE .
Alfred Keene is the son of John G. and Fannie ( Snell) Keene, who
emigrated from Kentucky to Missouri in the fall of 1826 . John Keene
was a native of Maryland , and was born and raised near Washington
City . He once owned part of the land now incorporated within the
city limits of the national capital. He was a bricklayer by trade, and
worked at the business many years before coming to Missouri. After
emigrating to Boone county he continued to work at the trade for
several years . He built the Presbyterian church in Columbia .
died at the age of seventy -six years, and is buried on the grounds of
the old Hinkson church , now owned by F. M. Johnson . The sub
ject of this sketch was born January 21, 1817 , at Georgetown, Ken
tucky ; he came to Boone county with his parents in the fall of 1826 ;
he never went to school a day in his life. Having learned the trade
of bricklaying from his father, and being a good workman , he found
po difficulty in procuring employment ; he was engaged to work on
the State University , and helped to lay the front wall of that build
ing ; he also built the first brick house ever erected in the town of
Rocheport . He assisted in building the Fulton Asylum ; he also built
the president's mansion at Columbia , and superintended the work on
the new public school building. He has been a bricklayer for fifty
years. In 1837 Mr. Keene enlisted in the Florida war under Capt .
Ellis, serving one year. He was married February 8 , 1844 , to Miss
Elizabeth , daughter of Samuel and Jane ( Johnson ) Hannah . By this
marriage they have bad four sons and two daughters. Their names
are : James H., born March 3 , 1845 ; George W., born September 2 ,
1846 ; Amanda, born September 26 , 1848, died March 6 , 1849 ; Eliz
abeth , born February 1 , 1850, died February 6 , 1850 ; Robert, boru
May 13 , 1853, died February 23 , 1860 ; Thomas, born July 24 , 1856 .
Since 1850 Mr. Keene has followed farming in addition to working at
his trade. He owns a small farm of sixty -one acres, five miles north
of Columbia , on the Paris road .
D. W. B. KURTZ .
The subject of this sketch is a gentleman of fine culture , being a

thorough graduate of the Missouri State University. He is a native
of Howard county , Missouri, the son of Jacob and Permelia Kurtz .
Was born February 17th , 1837 . Mr Kurtz's life -struggle stamps
him a man of superior worth . With few natural advantages , and little
or no assistance , he marked out for himself, while yet a mere boy , a
course of life which comprehended a thorough classical education , and
in his case , to will , was to accomplish all that he aspired to . Master
ing all the studies taught in the district schools , he came to Columbia
and entered the University in 1859. At the close of the session of

1860, Mr. Kurtz returned to Howard county and taught school for
one year. He next went to Dover , Lafayette county , Missouri,
where he taught for one session . He returned to the State University
and resumed his studies during the session of 1862. The war had by
this time almost broken up the schools of the county and Mr. Kurtz ,
finding nothing to do in his line, left the country , going first to Chicago
and thence to Canada . While in Canada , he went to school and
taught in the public schools of that province . At the close of the war
he returned to Missouri and resumed his studies at the University ,
where he graduated in 1866, after which he was tutor of Latin for one
year. In 1872 he was made first assistant in the normal department
of the University . Atthe close of this session , he went to Montgom
ery City , Missouri, where he took charge of the college . When he
entered upon his duties there were but thirty - six students in attend
ance . At the end of six years, when Mr. Kurtz retired from the in
stitution , there were 350. In 1878, Mr. Kurtz came to Columbia and
engaged in the grocery business. Having been chosen principal of the
Rocheport academy, he sold out his business in Columbia and took
charge of that school. He remained in Rocheport until March 1st ,
1881, when he bought the farm known as “ Greenwood ," two miles
northeast of Columbia , where he now resides . Professor Kurtz was
married December 23d , 1868, to Sarah L., daughter of Col. F. T.
and Myra C. Russell, of Columbia , Missouri. By this union they
have six children , four sons and two daughters . Their names are
Russell L., Cannie May, D. W.B., Jr., Francis A., Lula May and T.
Newton . Prof. Kurtz is a member of the Masonic order , also a mem
ber of the Baptist church .
GEORGE THOMAS LANGSTON
Is the oldest of four children of the late Jacob and Cornelia (North
cutt ) Langston , and was born March 1st, 1830 , in Bourbon county ,
Ky. His father moved to Boone county Mo., in 1835 or 1836 , and
settled on a farm about seven miles northeast of Columbia on the old
Columbia and St. Charles road , on Little Cedar creek . George was
educated at the country schools in the neighborhood and has always
lived upon the old place . In 1861, when the country was arming for
the great civil war , he espoused the cause of the South and went out
with the old State Guards from Boonville , in Shanks' regiment,
Company K. Was in the battles of Lone Jack and Independence .
Being sent by Col. Thompson to gather up recruits that were in hiding

in the brush in the vicinity of his father's farm , he was captured by
Col. Frank Russell and Captain Williams and taken to St. Louis and
confined in prison for ten months, when he was tried as a spy and sen
tenced to be shot. Was under sentence of death for three months .
He was granted a new trial and was tried by a military commission
and sentenced to the military prison at Alton , Ill. , at hard labor.
Was released in the fall of 1864 , after being in prison over a year .
He then came back to the farm and has lived at his present home ever
since . His is a good farm , containing 280 acres of good land , well
timbered and watered , the Little Cedar running through the place .
His father died February 20th , 1851, and his mother December 17th ,
1878 , at the age of 69. They are buried at Cedar Creek church ,
Callaway county , Mo. Only himself and brother , James F., are living
of the children . Joseph W.was wounded at the battle of Pea Ridge,
in 1862, and died from the effects of the wound . Nancy H., his only
sister , died some time since . Our subject , George T., is a Mason , in
good standing in the lodge, and is regarded by all as an upright,
honest citizen . He deals almost exclusively in stock , only having
thirty acres in cultivation for grain , all the rest in grass .
SLATER ENSOR LENOIR .
Mr. Lenoir is a son of Walter R. and Sarah E. ( Bouchelle ) Lenoir ,

and was born in Wilkes county , North Carolina, October 27th , 1833 .
He was brought by his parents to this county ( Boone ) when scarcely
a year old , and here grew to manhood and was educated . He finished
his educational career at the State University of Columbia , and soon
thereafter , in 1850 , made an overland trip “ across the plains ” to
California . He went with a train of ox-teams under charge of his
brother -in -law , Col. F. D. Russell. He remained in California till
January following , and then returned by water, via the Isthmus of
Panama, arriving in Boone county , March 15th , 1851. Thirteen years
later, April 21st , 1864, Mr. Lenoir was married to Margaret A.,
daughter of Austin and Lavinia Bradford , of Culpepper county , Vir
ginia . He has always been engaged in farming, and, up until 1877 ,
continued to live on the old homestead settled by his father, three miles
northeast of Columbia . At this writing he owns and resides on a fine
farm of 427 acres , three miles southeast of Columbia , on the gravel
road to Ashland . This place is finely improved , with residence , barn
and other buildings to correspond. Mr. Lenoir is ,of a fine old family
of Southern people , a worthy citizen and a member of the Christian

church at Columbia .
ROBERT LEMON , JR .
Robert Lemon , the subject of this sketch , is the son of Robert

Leinon , Sr., a native of Virginia . The maiden name of his mother
was Mary McCown. The elder Lemon was born October 6 , 1752, and
died July 12, 1848, at the advanced age of ninety - six His father was
a native of Ireland. Robert Lemon , Sr., emigrated to Lexington ,
Kentucky, in 1792. Hewas the youngest of nine children , eight sons
and one daughter. He served in the revolutionary arny, as did four
of his brothers. Was under Washington and Lafayette at the surren
der of Lord Cornwallis . He came to Boone county in the fall of 1824 ,
bringing with him his wife and a numerous family of children , and
settled on 'Coon creek , three and one-half miles northwest of Co
lumbia , where he built a log cabin and commenced farming . He lived
on this place till his death , which occurred as before stated . Mr.
Lemon was a tailor, and followed the business previous to coming to
Missouri. Mrs. Mary (McCown ) Lemon died February 16 , 1837 ,

aged sixty -six years.Both the father and mother of Robert, Jr., are
buried at the family burying ground on the old homestead , northwest
of Columbia . The subject of this sketch was born in Scott county ,
Kentucky , June 15 , 1811 . Was educated principally in Kentucky,
under the care of Beverly A. Hicks, one of the most noted teachers
of Scott county . He completed his education in the common schools
of this county . His father settled the old homestead on Coon creek ,
three and one-half miles northwest of Columbia , in the fall of 1824 .
January 22, 1838 , Robert Lemon , Jr., wasmarried to Miss Amanda ,
daughter of Samuel and Mary (Baker ) Marsh . By this union they
had ten children , five sons and five daughters, six of whom are now
living. Mrs. Lemon died January 2, 1857 . October 12 , 1858 , he
was again married to Mrs. Harriet Price , daughter of John and Ann
Riley . Mrs. Price was born in Philadelphia , May, 1810. There are
no children by this marriage . From 1840 up to the beginning of the
late civil war , Mr. Lemon was quite an extensive mule trader . He
furnished the government with a great many mules during the war
with Mexico . Has always been a farmer. Lived for many years on
the old farm settled by his father , northwest of Columbia . In 1850
moved to the farm he now occupies, one nile west of Columbia , on ·
the Rocheport and Columbia gravel road . He has a good farm of
400 acres, well watered and timbered . Mr. and Mrs. Lemon are mem
bers of the Christian church , at Columbia . Mr. Lemon had one son ,
Robert L., killed in the late war. He was a Confederate soldier , and
fell at the battle of Grand Gulf in 1863. Another son , Dr. W. T., is
practicing his profession at Ashland, Missouri. His fourth son , Will
iam C., is living at home with his parents. Mr. Lemon has in his pos
session an interesting relic , their old family Bible , published one
hundred years ago .
ELI MARS .
The subject of this sketch is the son of Samuel and Mary (Baker )
Mars. He was born in Franklin county , Kentucky, September 22,
1804, and came with his parents to this county in 1820. They settled
three miles north of Columbia , on what is now known as the James
Shock farm . Five acres of cleared land and a small log cabin consti
tuted all the improvement then found on the place. Mr. Mars greatly
improved the farm , and remained on it until his death , which occurred
May 10 , 1850. Eli was educated partly in Kentucky, tinishing his
education in Boone county . He was married January 30 , 1845, to
Miss Emily Penington , daughter of James and Elizabeth (Hayes )
Cowan . By this union they had four children , two sons and two
daughters, two of whom are now living , Parton W. S., who is now
farming on the Two-mile prairie, and Samuel C , who is living in Ari
zona Territory . The first wife having died February 20 , 1857 , Mr.
Mars was again married May 26 , 1860 , to Miss Louisa , daughter of
John M.and Mary (Witt ) Salmon . By this union there were two
children , a son and a daughter, both of whom are dead . Mr. Mars
was the sixth of a family of twelve children , six of each sex, of whom
he alone is living . Should he live to celebrate his next birthday , he
will be seventy-eight years old . Mr. Mars has followed farming all
his life. The farm upon which he is now living is situated one mile
west of Columbia , on the Rocheport road . Hewas oneof the original
members of the Old Bear Creek church . Mrs. Mars is a member of
the Columbia Baptist church . His first wife was a member of Bear
Creek congregation . In an early day Mr. Mars :ind his father used to
carry freight in wagons between Columbia and St. Louis . He remem
ber's many incidents connected with the dim past, which , but for the
vigorous memories of such old citizens as Mr.Mars, had long since
been forgotten .
COL . E. C. MORE .
The subject of this sketch is the son of Elijah and Caroline (Owens)
More , and was born at Little Rock , Arkansas, December 27, 1837 .
His father was born in Danville , Kentucky, and died in 1878 at Colum
hia , Missouri. His mother was boru in Arkansas, and died at Little
Rock in 1839. They were blessed with two sons. Dr. Livingfield ,the
elder , died in 1859, and Col. E. C. More alone survives. He was
educated mostly in America , but spent several years upon the conti
pent of Europe at schools and universities. He first went to school
at Little Rock , Arkansas, then at St. Louis, and next at Shurtleff
College , Illinois . At the age of fifteen he went to Europe, and went
to school at Paris, France , then at Hanover, Germany, and at Cadiz ,
Spain . In 1856 he returned to America , and entered the junior class
at Yale College and graduated in 1858. He studied law at home for
a short time, then entered the law school at Lebanon , Tennessee , and
graduated from that institution in 1861. He next went to St. Louis
and entered the law office of Lackland , Cline & Jamison . In the
spring 'of 1865 he went to Helena, Montana, and entered regularly
into the practice of the law , in partnership with Col. Aleck M. Wool
folk . In 1866 he took quite an extensive trip through Oregon and
California , and after traveling some time in Central America, returned
to Missouri, and settled down pernianently at Columbia , Boone county.
He practiced law three or four years at the Columbia bar but finally
abandoned it entirely for farming , which occupation he has followed
up to the present. His is a very large farm adjoining the city limits
He has a beautiful place , decorated in and with everything that culti
vation , refinement and wealth could suggest . His farm is stocked
with thoroughbred cattle and sheep as well as the best graded horses ,
hogs , etc. He has been president of the State Board of Agriculture
and for several years of the Boone County Fair Association . His resi
dence is one and one-half miles north of Columbia . He has been
twice married , the last time to Elizabeth , daughter of Judge Logan
Hunton of St. Louis county . The Colonel takes an active part in
politics, being unanimously chosen as Boone's choice for congress in
1882. He enjoys the confidence of those who know him , and is a
polished, thorough gentleman , dispensing hospitality at his elegant
home in the true Southern manner . His residence has all the appoint
ments that true elegance and cultivated tastes can suggest , and
he, his wife and his home are always pleasantly remembered by those
that enjoy their acquaintance .
LEVI M'HUIRE ( DECEASED ) .
Levi McGuire, one of Boone's earliest pioneers, was born in Henry

county , Kentucky , August 1 , 1801, and emigrated to Boone county ,

Missouri in 1818 , and settled upon the land now owned by Mrs. Stew
art . He was educated in his native county in Kentucky , and in his
young and vigorous manhood , he learned the carpenter's trade, but
never followed the calling after coming to Missouri, as he chose farm
ing as his occupation in his new home in the then far West. In 1820
he married Miss Susan Martinie, daughter of Jonathan and Durrett

Martinie. By this union they had eight children , seven boys and one
girl. Dr. J. E., Jonathan M., a Baptist minister living in Boone
county ; Robert L., a lawyer and ex -mayor of Springfield , Illinois ;
William D., a lawyer and ex -representative of Grundy county , Mis
souri ; Benjamin F., living upon the old homestead with his mother ,
Dr. Julius E. McGuire , of this township , and McGuire , of >
and Ann E., deceased . Mr. McGuire died in August, 1873, in his
73d year , and is buried in the old family burial ground at the home
place . His wife is still living , in her 77th year , at this date, 1882.
JULIUS EARNEST M'GUIRE , M. D.
Dr. McGuire is a son of Levi and Susan (Martivie ) McGuire and

was born March 22 , 1826 , in Boone county , Missouri, on the farin
now owned by Mrs. Sarah Stewart , eight miles east of Columbia , and
a mile and a half south of St. Charles road . He lived upon the place
until he was about ten years of age when his father bought the place
where he is now living and removed his family thereto . He was edu
cated principally in Boone county , beginning at the age of six at Roh
erts' school house on the gravel road . His teacher there was a man
named Beatty . Afterwards he went to school at Bonusboro , then on
the eastern border of the county . Heresided at homewith his parents
until 1851, when he went to Columbia and studied medicine with Drs .
Lee and Spotswood. After reading with them two years, he went to
Cincinnati, Ohio , and took two courses of lectures. In 1869–70 he
attended Jefferson Medical College at Philadelphia . In 1861 he took
sides with the South in her struggle against the North , and joined
Price's army. He was at the battles of Dry Wood and Lexington .
After the fight at Lexingtou he came back to Boone to recruit and was
in all the little engagements in Boone county . In 1864 he went to
Kentucky and joined Morgan's command and stayed there until peace
was declared and the flag he loved was forever furled . He began the
practice of his profession at his old home and has lived there to the
present time. He has it fine practice in a good neighborhood and is
esteemed by all as a thorough gentleman. He is a Mason and his

wife is a member of the Missionary Baptist church .
T. C. M'INTIRE .
Thomas C. McIntire is the son of Thomas and Elsie McIntire , of

Fleming county, Kentucky , where he was born October , 1822. He
came to Callaway county , Missouri, in the fall of 1836 , and from
Callaway to Boone in 1849. He was educated in the latter county .
In the spring of 1850 he was married to Margaret Simmons, whose
parents were of Fleming county , Kentucky. By this union they had
four children , three girls and one boy . Their names are Eliza C.,
Margaret A., Mary L., and William . Mrs. McIntire died in the
spring of 1867, and in 1869 he was again married . His second wife
was Mary , daughter of William and Lucy Atkinson . By this union
they had one son , Albert G. Mr. and Mrs. McIntire are members of
the Columbia Presbyterian church . Previous to his marriage Mr.
McIntire taught school in Callaway county , Missouri, and clerked in a
store at Mexico for a number of years. He has followed farıning and
is also largely interested in the nursery business . Since 1867 he has
raised on an average about 20,000 apple trees a year. He has sixty
five acres in orchard and ships a great deal of fruit every year . His
farm and nursery of 170 acres is situated on the St. Charles road , two
and a half miles east of Columbia . He has a fine vineyard of 600
vines , besides other fruits in the greatest abundance. There is one
apple tree on the farm that was planted forty -five years ago . It is
still thrifty and bears abundant fruit .
HARVEY W. PEMBERTON .
Mr. Pemberton is the son of John and Lucy ( Vivion ) Pemberton ,

and was born April 22 , 1807, in Clark county , Kentucky. When he
was nine years of age his parents moved to Woodford county , Ken
tucky. At the age of seventeen he learned the cabinet-maker's trade
in Fayette county , same State. In 1826 he came to Boone county ,
Missouri, and staid one year and then went to Fayette , Howard
county , and worked at his trade in the shop of Samuel C. Major. In
1829 he returned to Kentucky and induced his father to come out to
the new and growing West . He then settled in Columbia and worked
at his trade for two years. He then moved six miles northeast of
Columbia , and farmed on a small scale , carrying on his trade at the
same time. He lived there about four years, and then went to Millers
-
burg , Callaway county , Missouri, where he worked exclusively at his

trade. In 1838 he bought the farm upon which he is now living,
eight and one- half miles east of Columbia , on the Richland road . He
mar
has a fine farm of 240 acres, in a high state of cultivation . He
ried Miss Nancy , daughter of James and Mildred (Cave ) Kirtley , on
the 3d of May, 1832. By this marriage they have nine children ,
three boys and six girls : Frances, wife of Hiram Philips, of Boone
county ; Anne E., the wife of Wm . Truett , of Callaway county , Mis
souri ; Eveline (deceased ) ; John , a physician , of New Bloomfield ,
Callaway county , Missouri ; Flora , wife of Frank Wilcox , of Colum
bia ; Rella P., widow of Thomas Lynes, of Boone county ; Maggie ,
wife of Winfield Potts , and two children , a boy and a girl, who died
in infancy. His first wife died February 6th, 1855. He mar
ried again on the 8th of September , 1870 , Mrs. Louisa Shields, the
widow of John Shields. Mr. Pemberton is one of Boone's staunch ,
reliable citizens, and has , by industry and good management, acquired
a fair competency, and is revered and respected by all. His parents
were from Virginia . His father died in 1838 and his mother in 1845.
They were buried in a family burying ground on the Stark farm , in
Boone county . They were the parents of eleven children , five boys
and six girls .
JOSEPH B. PHILIPS .
Mr. Philips is the son of Warner and Catherine ( Hutchings )

Philips, and was born April 30th , 1826 , in Boone county , Missouri,
near Stephens station . His father was born in Virginia , November
24th , 1794 , and died in Boone county , Missouri, March 24th , 1881.
His mother was born November 5th , 1807 , and died August 29th ,
1876. They are buried in the family burial ground upon the old
homestead . They were blest with eight children , six boys and two
girls , only two of whom are now living , Mrs. Ann E. Roberts, of
Centralia , and Joseph B., our subject . They settled about eleven
iniles northeast of Columbia , on the Columbia and Concord road ,
where Joseph was born . Joseph lived at home with his parents until
the spring of 1850. He concluded to join the army of California
gold -hunters, and accordingly went to the famous gold fields of that
renowned territory . At the end of his fourth year spent in mining
in California , he returned to old Boone, and remained with his parents
until he married , January 4th , 1857, Miss Virginia , daughter of
Walker and Lucinda Walden , of Virginia . By this union they have
but one child , Lou Anu , boru February 27th , 1859. In the fall
of 1859 Mr. Philips moved his family to Texas , but only stayed a year ,
when he once more turned his face toward Missouri. He purchased
his father's old homestead , and has lived upon it until the present.
Mr. Philips is one of Boone's earliest -born children , and has lived to
see some wonderful changes in the affairs of his native county . His
farm contains 240 acres of good land , well improved . He is a Mason ,
and his wife and daughter are members of the Christian church .
JAMES WILLIAM PHILLIPS .
Augustine Phillips, the father of James W., was born in Boone

county , May 1st, 1823. He was the son of Hiram and Elizabeth
Phillips, both natives of Kentucky, but among the earliest settlers of
this county . Augustine Phillips died February 21st, 1876 , and is
buried at the old Phillips burying ground, in Columbia township .
His widow , Mary Ann (McQuitty ) Phillips , is still living on the home
farm with her oldest son , James W. She was born July 31st , 1825 ,
She is the daughter of George W. and Elizabeth McQuitty , and was
born in Boone county . Her father died about nine years ago, and is
buried at Walnut Grove church , near Rocheport. Mrs. McQuitty is
still living on her farm , six miles north of Rocheport, at the age of
seventy - four, being still in excellent health and able to dispense with
her glasses in reading or in executing the most difficult needlework .
James W.Phillips, the subject of this sketch , is the oldest one living
of a family of four children . Elizabeth F. was born January 10th ,
1846, and died July 13th , 1864. She is buried in the old Phillips
hurying ground . James William was born April 2d , 1849. He has
lived all his life on the firm where he was born , except two years
spent in Henry county , Missouri. Both his brothers are residents of
Boone county. John H. was born January 1st, 1855. He married
Laura C. Grey . They have two children , Nanny Maud and Minnie
May. Jasper A., the youngest of the brothers, was born February
20th , 1857. He was married March 5th , 1876 , to Ellen Singleton .
They have three children : Virgil, Augustine, Albert Hirain and
Ruth . James W. Phillips was married February 26th , 1870 , to
Miss Jennie Hart. But one child was born of this marriage, Mary
C., who died in infancy . Mrs. Phillips lived but three years after
their marriage . Mr. Phillips was married April 13th , 1876 , to Miss
Rebecca Edwards, of Montrose , Henry county , Missouri. They
have three children : George Augustine, William Edwards and Lillie
Bell. Mr. Phillips is an active , enterprising farmer and an excel
lent citizen . He is a member of the Grange and Masonic orders .

Both himself and wife are members of the Christian church .
PHILIP PRATHER .
Philip Prather , son of Thomas and Mary ( Cowan ) Prather, was

born May 3d , 1834 , in Boone county , Missouri. He was raised
on his father's farm , now occupied by his brother , James Prather ,
and was educated at the “ Old Bear Creek school house ," under
the instructions of Judge J. A. Boulton . He was married , December
25th , 1856 , to Miss Georgie A., daughter of Maj. James B. and Cyn
thia (Riley ) Nichols. The father -in -law of Mr. Prather was no ordi
nary man , and deserves more than a passing notice . Hewas the son
of George and Rebecca ( Davis ) Nichols, and was born in Montgom
ery county , Kentucky , September 10th , 1796 . Came to Boone
county , Missouri, in the fall of 1824 , settling on the W. C. Robnett

farm , on the Two-mile prairie . In 1826 he removed to Columbia .
In 1836 he bought the farm where W. H. Robnett lived , finally
moving to the William Orear place , five miles north of Columbia ,
where he remained until the death of his wife in 1867. He was mar
ried , in 1818 , to Miss Cynthia , daughter of John Riley , of Clark
county , Kentucky. They had ten children , of whom eight are now
living . John died in California . Mary Osborne , wife of George
Osborne, deceased , - who died in the Sandwich Islands, — came back
to Missouri and married Dr. John T. Bailey , of Fayette . She is also
dead . The living are J. A.Nichols, of Audrain county ; Huldah ,wife
of R. V. Bailey , deceased , Susan Reed , wife of Frederic Reed , of
Columbia , Elizabeth Orear, wife of Joseph B. Orear, of Audrain
county ; Caroline, wife of Henry Brown , deceased , of Boone county ;
Fannie , wife of John Crump, of Fayette ; Georgie Ann , wife of
Philip Prather , of Boone county ; Sarah R., wife of Francis M.Grant,
of Columbia . Mr. Nichols was a Master Mason . The subject of this
sketch has had four children , one son and three daughters. Lula ,born
February 21st , 1858 , now the wife of B. J. Brown ; Fannie F., born
June 13th , 1862 ; Katie B., born October 3d , 1864 , died August 14th ,
1866 ; Frank Grant, January 24th , 1868. Mr. Prather has always
followed farming, and now owns 160 acres of excellent land , situated
on the Columbia and Blackfoot rock road . He moved to this place
in 1857. The farm is well timbered and watered , and by the energy
and industry of Mr. Prather it has been well improved and made as
productive as possible . There is an excellent coal mine on the land ,

the vein of which averages nearly three feet in thickness . Mr. Pra
ther has taken out about three thousand bushels of coal annually
since the mine was opened . Mr. and Mrs. Prather, and their daugh
ter, Miss Fannie F., are members of the Christian church at Oakland
SAMUEL HAYS PRATHER .
Samuel Hays Prather is the son of Thomas and Mary Elizabeth

(Cowan ) Prather. He was born in Pulaski county , Kentucky ,
March 15th , 1824 , and came to Callaway county , Missouri, with his
parents in 1832. The year following , they moved to Boone county
and settled on the farm now owned by William J. Brown , four and
one-half miles north of Columbia . They lived on this place one year ,
when they purchased a farm four miles north of Columbia , on the
gravel road, which is now owned and occupied by James C. Prather :
The subject of this sketch was educated at the public schools, princi
pally at the Bear Creek school house , under the instructions of Jesse
A. Boulton . Mr. Prather was married , April 15th , 1844, to Miss
Mary J., daughter of William and Elizabeth ( Johnson ) Ritchey ,
natives of Scott county , Kentucky . By this union they have had
seven children , four sons and three daughters : William T., born May
20th , 1845 , died March 25th , 1857 ; Mary E., born October 30th ,
1848, died March 31st, 1879 ; Catherine R., born May 26th , 1851 ;
James S., born June 27th , 1854 , died in infancy ; Margaret S., born
August 16th , 1856 ; Edward , born December 3d , 1859 ; Charles C. ,
born February 27th , 1863. Mr. Prather bought the farm where he
now lives in the spring of 1847. When he took possession , there
were but fifteen acres of cleared land and no other improvements .
He first built a log cabin , in which he lived while preparing the land
for cultivation . The farm consists of 207 acres of excellent land ,
now finely improved . The natural advantages of the place can hardly
be surpassed . There are a number of excellent springs on the land
and plenty of excellent timber . Mr. Prather, his wife and all their
children are members of the Christian church . During the war he
was drafted to serve in the State militia , but hired a substitute . Mr.
Prather's father was one of the pioneer settlers of the county . He
was the father of eight children , six sons and two daughters, all of
whom are living except one son , John , who died about thirty years
ago . Thomas Prather died April 26th , 1840 , and is buried on the
farm now owned by John M. Keen . Mrs. Prather died April 12th ,
1861, and is buried by the side of her husband . Mr. and Mrs.
Prather were both members of the Christian church .
MALCOLM G. QUINN .
Malcolm G. Quinn , assessor of Boone county , was born on Foster's

prairie, Randolph county , Missouri, November 23d, 1844. He is the
son of Thomas and Zarelda ( Tomlinson ) Quinn. He attended the
common schools of Howard and Randolph , completing his studies at
Mt. Pleasant College, Huntsville, Missouri, from which institution he
graduated . In 1860 he assisted as one of the corps of engineers on
the North Missouri railroad . In the spring of 1861 he enlisted as a
private in the Confederate army. Thos . G. Lowry , of Randolph
county , was his captain . In the regular organization Mr. Quinn was
made a sergeant of Company K , 3d Missouri Infantry , 1st Missouri
Brigade. He served through the whole of the war . At the battle of
Port Gibson , Mississippi, he was shot through the right leg , and was
afterwards wounded in the left leg. He participated in the follow
ing battles : Elkhorn , Corinth , Vicksburg , Nashville , Franklin and
Mobile , surrendering at the last- named place in 1865 , his commander
being Col. Elijah P. Gates. After the war Mr. Quinn returned to
Howard County , Missouri, and went into business at Fray's mill with
James Robinson , keeping a store of general merchandise, under the
firm name of Quinn & Robinson . He remained in this business about
six months, then sold his interest and accepted a position under Maj.
George C. Pratt in locating the Columbia and Jefferson City rock
road , acting as leveler and division engineer . In 1869 be took charge
of the various gravel roads in Boone county . He was afterwards ap
pointed county surveyor , serving in that capacity for two years . He
was then elected for four years. Afterwards served as deputy collec
tor under J.C.Gillaspy. In 1878 he was elected assessor, and has
held the office ever since . Mr. Quinn is a member of the K. of P.,
and a director of the Boone County Fair . He was first married No
vember 23d , 1872, to Miss Caroline, daughter of Abram and Nancy
(O'Neal) Turner . They had one son and one daughter. The first
wife having died July 4th , 1876 , he was again married May 3d , 1879,
to Miss Katie Turner , sister of his deceased wife . Mr. Quinn owns
a nice farm of 220 acres , five miles east of Columbia , on the western
border of the Two-mile prairie . Seventy acres of his land is in
50
timber . He is quite pleasantly situated . In public and private life

Mr. Quinn is highly esteemed by the people of his adopted county .
JOHN REED .
John Reed is the son of John and Jane (McMurray ) Reed , and was
born in Washington county , Kentucky, September 4th , 1805. In 1825
he came with his parents to Boone county , Missouri, and settled
twelve miles northeast of Columbia on the old St. Charles road .
He received his education in the country schools of Kentucky and
Boone county , Missouri. In April, 1837 he freighted goods from
Columbia to Santa Fe, New Mexico , when crossing the great plains was
both a tiresome and dangerous trip . He returned in October , baving
heen gone just seven months, a remarkably quick trip in those
days. He dealt largely in mules for the next few years , and in
1839 made a trip South with quite a drove of those most excellent
and often most treacherous work animals, returning in March , 1840.
He is a member of the Methodist church , and is the only mem
ber now living of that congregation when he joined . On the 15th
of September , 1831, he married Miss Prudence , daughter of Thomas
Waller of Union county , Kentucky. He and his faithful bride started
immediately for their Missouri home, upon horseback , which they
reached in safety . Men and women had stout hearts in those days ,
and dared all dangers and obstacles for those they loved and for
honest success . Their union was blessed with thirteen children ,
four boys and nine girls . Thomas W., a dentist of Macon City ,
Mo.; Mary J.,married to Robert Bratton , of Callaway county , Mo. ;
John W., a dentist at Mexico , Mo.; Wm . F., a merchant of Mexico ,
and a landowner of Audrain county , Missouri ; Lucy A., died in
1862 ; Laura , married to Dr. Thomas Robinson, of Audrain county ;
Lizzie J. , married to Madison McMurray, a lawyer of Quincy , Ills.;
Martha, married to John Cravens, of Boone côunty ; James A.,
drummer for a Chicago house ; Margaret, married to a Mr. Davis,
of Mexico , Mo.; Ella P., married to Robert Chappell, of Audrain
county , Mo. Mr. Reed's father died in 1849, and hismother in 1835.
They are buried near the head of Cedar Creek , in a family burial ground .
They had nine children , and our subject, John Reed , is the youngest
and only one living. He is seventy - seven years of age, and retains
his faculties splendidly . His memory, as to dates of important events ,
is perfectly reliable and trustworthy. He has lived continuously since
1825 within a mile and a half of his present home.
P. H. ROBNETT.
The subject of this biography is one of the most prominent agricul

turalists in Boone county . He has , perhaps, not so much capital in
vested as some who are similarly engaged , but few , if any, get larger
returns for the amount of capital and labor involved . His home
place, situated eight miles east of the Columbia and Cedar creek
gravel road , contains 900 acres of finely improved land . He is pre
pared for wintering from two to three hundred head of cattle . His
barn is probably the best building of the kind in the county. It con
tains one hundred stalls , arranged either for horses or cattle . Besides
this farm , Mr. Robnett owns in other parts of the county 700 acres of
land ,making in all 1,600 acres . He also has a fine sheep ranche near
Pueblo , Colorado . He is largely interested in thoroughbred stock ,
especially short horn cattle and Cotswold sheep . P. H. Robnett is
the son of David and Margaret Hunt Robnett, of Kentucky, and was
born in Bourbon county , September 10th , 1824 . He was brought to
Missouri in 1825. Attended school at Little Cedar creek school
house , finishing his studies at the Bonne Femme Academy. He was
married January 24th , 1865, to Sallie , daughter of Jacob and Win
ifred Sims. They have five children , all girls . Mr. Robnett is a
member of the Masonic order at Millersburg . He was director and
paymaster of the Columbia and Cedar Creek rock road com
pany while the turnpikė was in course of building, and is at this
writing president of the road .
ALEXANDER C. ROBINSON .
Alexander C. Robinson , is a son of John M.and Lucian ( Butler )

Robinson , and was born January 8th , 1821, in Bourbon county , Ken
tucky . His father was born in South Carolina , February 14th , 1800,
and came with his parents to Kentucky when quite young . He came
to Howard county , Missouri, in the fall of 1821, and lived for a short
time near Old Franklin , and afterwards removed to Boone county .
He died October 12th , 1862, and is buried at Asbland church in How
ard county , Missouri. Mrs. Robinson , the wife of John M., was born
January 10 , 1802, in Davidson county , Tennessee ; she also went to
Kentucky when a child . They had ten children , five boys and five
girls ; Alexander C., our subject, being the second . In 1841, Alexau
der went to school at the Robnett school house for one year . In
the fall of 1844 he, like all young men , concluded to see
more of the world , and accordingly set out for Louisiana , where he
remained for some time in the interior of the State , and then to New
Orleans. From New Orleans he went to Nashville, Tennessee , where
he was employed as a guard of the State prison until the spring of
1847, when he came back to Boone county , and has remained here
ever since . In 1852 he moved to the northern portion of the county ,
where he lived for about twelve years . In February, 1864 , he moved
out upon the Two -mile prairie, and lived there five years. In 1869
he moved upon the farm where he is now living , a farm of one hun
dred and sixty acre , ten and one- half miles northeast of Columbia .
December 19th , 1850 , he married Miss Mary J., daughter of John
O., and Jemima (Conley ) White . By this union they have had nive
children , three girls and six boys . John D. E. W.is now with White ,
Barron & Co., of Centralia ; James W., of Stephens' Store , Callaway
county , Missouri, general merchandise ; Thomas O., who is of the
firm of Loeb , Cook & Co., grocery store , Columbia ; Wm . B., who
is also at Stephens' Store ; Alexander (deceased ) , Lucy J., Isaac
N., Annie M. and Mattie . Mr. and Mrs. Robinson are members of
the Christian church , and are considered by all as worthy of all con
fidence in their social and business relations.
DAVID HURST SHOCK , DECEASED .
The subject of this sketch was one of the hardy pioneers , of the
county , though he was not among the first comers . Mr. Shock , was
the son of John and Mary Shock , and was born in Fayette county ,
Kentucky , October 8th , 1800. He came to Howard county , Missouri,
in 1820 , and to Boone county , in the spring of 1822. He was mar
ried August 7th , 1823, to Miss Cynthia , daughter of Martin Gibson .
Thirteen children , eight boys and five girls, were born of this union ,
named : John M., James H., Hawkins G., William T., David H.,
George W., Robert L., Walter C., Zerelda A., Martha E., Rebecca ,
Mary C. and Laura A. Mr. Shock settled in 1825 on the farm oc
cupied at this writing by his widow and two sons, David H. and Wil
liam T. His death occured March 18 , 1880. He was deacon of the
Old Rocky Fork Baptist church for many years, and raised a large
and exemplary family . Only one — Mary C. — of these children
has died up to this time. All the sons reside in Boone county , but
one — Hawkins — who lives in Oregon . Mrs. Shock is a member of
the church of which her husband was so long deacon , she having been
a communicant of that congregation about 44 years.
JAMES HURST SHOCK
Is a son of David H. Shock , deceased , and was born in this county ,

November 28 , 1827 . His education was received in his native county ,
where he grew up and was married , September 1st, 1853, to Miss
Susan A., daughter , of John H., and Catherine Keith . Four chil
dren , two sonsand two daughters were born of this marriage, named :
Willard C., Mary C., Emma P. and James W. His first wife died
in 1873 , and Mr. Shock was again married to Miss Martha A.
Bradley , daughter of James and Zerelda (Gibson ) Bradley . By this
union they have three boys - Roy, Guy and Frank . Mr. Shock
has always been a farmer. He owns a good farm of 160 acres on
the Columbia and “ Blackfoot " gravel road , three miles north of the
county seat. Mrs. Shock belongs to the Missionary Baptist church ,
and is a consistent Christian .
SOLOMON SHOBE
Is a son of Daniel and Elizabeth ( Parsons ) Shobe, and was born April
16 , 1828 , at Loutre Island, Warren county , Missouri. He received a
common- school education at the log school house upon the island .
His father died September 14 , 1845. In 1846 he , in company with his
mother , two brothers, and a sister , was crossing the Missouri river
at Loutre Island in a skiff,when they ran upon a snag and upset, drown
ing his mother and his two brothers , Abraham and John D. Caroline
V. drifted down the river about three miles and was rescued by a fer
ryman . Solomon lived upon the old home place in Warren county
until 1856 , when he started for Boone county in a one-horse wagon ,
with his wife and a faithful negro woman . He settled upon a piece of
land containing one hundred and sixty acres, which he had bought the
fall previous .In 1867 he purchased another 160-acre tract adjoining ,
and now his is considered one of the best farms on Two-mile prairie ;
his improvements are all new and substantial. In 1876 he built a good
two-story house, and in 1877 built quite a large barn . He deals mostly
in cattle, feeding about fifty head for market every winter . Mr.
Shobe was married December 18 , 1855, to Miss Susan H., daughter
of Larkin Callaway, of Warren county , Missouri. By this union
they have four children - two boys and two girls , Larkin D., George
R., Annie B. and Mary V. His wife died January 14 , 1881, and
is buried at Prairie Grove church . Mr. Shobe is a Mason in good
standing .
SAMUEL BROWN SPENCE .

Samuel B. Spence , son of Andrew and Rebecca (Lemon ) Spence ,
was born in Scott county , Kentucky, May 22, 1819 ; he came to Boone
county in the fall of 1824 with his father , and wintered in Columbia ,
in a small log house on the ground now occupied by J. P. Horner's
lumber yard . The spring following his father moved to Jefferson
Garth's farm , close to Columbia , and stayed there one year ; he then
bought a farm three and a half miles north of Columbia , on the old
Paris road . The subject of this sketch was educated at the common
schools of the neighborhood , his principal instructor being Jo
seph Carpenter . He was married November 2, 1852, to Miss Mar
garet E., daughter of William and Elizabeth ( Johnson ) Ritchey .
By this marriage they bad four children — three sons and one daugh
ter : Andrew R., born August 15 , 1855 ; Robert S., born October 4 ,
1858 ; James A., born November 10 , 1860 ; Mary C., born March 19 ,
1864. His first wife having died September 13 , 1867, he was again
married , January 13 , 1871. The second wife was Ann M., daughter
of Marcus P. and Sarah G. (Smith ) Wills, formerly of Kentucky.
Mr. Wills was one of the first pastors of Old Bear Creek church ."
Mr. Spence bought the old Samuel Crockett farm , eight miles north
east of Columbia , on the old Crockett road . This place was some
what noted in the early history of the county as being the great camp
meeting ground. The place was then called Mount Moriah. The
farm contains 240 acres of very good land, well watered and timbered
and nicely improved . In early life Mr. Spence worked at the tanner's
trade with his father , on the old home place , three and one- half miles
north of Columbia . From 1848 to 1850 Mr. Spence was extensively
engaged in the mule trade, buying in Missouri and selling in the Lou
isiana and Texas markets . In 1864, having previously bought his
father's old farm , three and one-half miles north of Columbia, he
removed to that place, remaining there about seven years. Not
liking the change, he came back to his former home on the Crockett
road , eight miles northeast of Columbia , where he now lives. In
January , 1853, he had the misfortune to break his leg , and was a
cripple for about a year , being unable to get about. Andrew Spence ,
father of Samuel B., was born in 1790. He married Rebecca Lemon ,
of Scott county , Kentucky , sister of Robert Lemon , of Boone county .
They had eight children — six sons and two daughters : John L.,
(deceased ) , Mary A., Margaret E., Robert M. ( deceased ) , William
-
R., Joseph A., James F., and Alexander P. Andrew Spence is

buried on the old farm settled by him . Mrs. Spence is buried by
the side of her husband. Mr. Spence owned and operated one among
the first tanyards ever established in this county . Samuel B. Spence
and all his family are members of the Christian church ; he is also
a member of the Patrons of Husbandry . He is a useful citizen and
a clever neighbor , honored and esteemed by all who know him .
ZEPHANIAH SPIERS .
Zephaniah Spiers is the son of Samuel and Nancy (Logan ) Spiers ,

and was born May 8 , 1822 , in Fayette county , Kentucky. His father
was a native of Maryland , and died in Boone county , August 9, 1843.
His mother died November 20 , 1859. They are buried in the family
burying ground, upon the old homestead . They were both members
of the Christian church . Zephaniah was educated in Kentucky and
in Boone county , Missouri, in the country schools . He came to Boone
in 1830 with his father, who bought the place upon which his son is
now living. It is ten miles east of Columbia , on “ Spiers' road .”
The farm contains 260 acres of good land . He went to California in
1850 , and returned in the fall of 1851, believing that there is no place
like Missouri. While in California he worked in the gold -diggings,
but his heart turned back to the land of peace and plenty . Hemoved
to Audrain county in 1856, but returned to Boone and bought the old
homestead settled by his father in 1830 , and is now living upon it. He
was married August 1 , 1849, to Miss Lucy A., daughter of Colonel
Walker and Lucinda (Walden ) Allen . They have had five children
three boys and two girls : Z. M. ( deceased ), Maud A. ( deceased ),
Lucinda N. (deceased ) , Samuel W. (deceased ) , and William H., now
living at home with his father. Mr. Spiers is the first of a family
of eight children , but two of whom are now living - Zerelda and
our subject. Mrs. Spiers died July 30 , 1866 , and is buried in Calla
way county , Missouri . She was a member of the Christian church .
Mr. Spiers is also a member of the same denomination . He was cap
tured during the war, taken to Mexico , Missouri, and thence to St.
Louis , from there to Alton , Illinois . He was in prison at the latter
place about six months. He is regarded as one of the best citizens of
Boone county — a warm -hearted , hospitable gentleman .
N. P. STARK .
Newman Payton Stark was born in Boone county , Missouri, April

28th , 1841. His parents , Newman B. and Percilla Thornton Stark ,

were natives of the “ Old Dominion , ” emigrating from Stafford county ,
Virginia , to Boone county in the fall of 1828. Newman Stark , Jr. ,
was born and raised on the farm now owned by Wm . McDonald , nine
miles southeast of Columbia . He waspartly educated at the common
schools , finishing his studies at the State University . He is a practi
cal farmer and deals largely in live stock . Few men have been more
successful in this line of business than Newman Stark . He pays lib
eral prices and is fair in his dealings. Such business men are needed
in every farming and stock raising community . By furnishing his
neighborswith a home market for their surplus stock , Mr. Stark has
been of much service to the community in which he lives. He owns
840 acres of land which is well adapted to the business he is engaged
in and it is utilized to the best advantage .
ALEXANDER F. STEPHENS.
The subject of this sketch is the son of John L. and Mary (Sams)
Stephens, and was born August 5th , 1828 , in Garrard county , Ken
tucky. His father and mother were married in Virginia , in 1806 , and
emigrated to Kentucky some years after . In 1838 they again turned
their faces to the Great West, and settled in Boone county, Missouri ,
and in 1839. they removed to the place upon which Alexander F.
now lives, just one mile south of the place they first settled . John
L. died February 3d , 1863, at the age of 83, and his wife died
August 20 , 1877. They are buried at Cedar Church , Callaway
county , Missouri. They had eleven children , seven boys and four
girls. Rice, Elizabeth , James , Nancy , Sarah W., Eliza G., John L.,
Wm . P., Lucy A., Alexander F. and James H., only three of whom
are living ; Eliza G., is ·living in . Jasper County , Missouri, James
H., at Centralia , this county , and our subject , Alexander . Mr.
Stephens was educated at Boonesboro , and at Cedar Hill Academy. In
1849 hewent to California , and returned to Boone county in 1851.
He has a fine farm of four hundred and eleven acres . Cedar creek
forms his eastern boundary line, being also the county line between
Boone and Callaway counties. In 1862 Mr. Stephens had twenty
five acres of corn which made twenty - four barrels per acre . Mr.
Stephens relates that when he was thirteen or fourteen years of age

he saw his father have twenty -six half dollars in silver . He asked his
father to let him have them , saying, after his father had placed themoney
in his hands , “ If this was mine I would never need any more money
as long as I live .” To him it seemed a fortune. His ideas of wealth

have changed very materially since then , forty years ago , for he now
pays taxes to the amount of onehundred and ninety dollars each year .
Mr. Stephens lives just ninemiles due east of Columbia .
CHARLES Y. TRICE , JR .
The subject of this sketch has not been a citizen of Boone county
but a few years, yet , notwithstanding this fact, he is already more
thoroughly identified with the business interests of the county than
many of the oldest citizens. Possessing remarkable energy, good
judgment, and affable manners , he has succeeded in building up a
business, and in much less time than it usually takes to accomplish
such important results. Mr. Trice was born in DeKalb county ,
Missouri, October 28th , 1853, and came to Boone county in 1877.
He first located in Rocheport, where he remained for three years .
From Rocheport he removed to his present home on the grounds of
his nursery , three - fourths of a mile north of town . He was married
November 19th , 1878 , to a daughter of Alfred R. Steele . He is
manager and senior proprietor of the nursery farm of Trice Brothers
& Co., also general agent for all sorts of nursery stock . They have
forty acres in nursery , surrounded by a beautiful hedge of osage
orange. In addition to young stock , they have 3,000 apple trees
just beginning to bear. This orchard covers twenty acres. They
have a plum orchard of seventy -five trees and a pear orchard of
150. The nursery grounds have a natural slope in all directions,
affording natural drainage , which adds greatly to the fertility of the
soil as well as to the beauty of the place. They have a general as
sortment of nursery stock , including shrubbery , evergreens, roses, etc.
Mr. Trice also owns a cattle ranche in Butler county , Kansas.
CHARLES R. TURNER .
The subject of this sketch was born upon the farm where he now
lives, on the 11th day of July , 1853. His father, Wm . Turner , was
born June 6th , 1829, and died in Santa Fe, New Mexico , May 26th ,
1880. A. W. Turner , the father of William , and grandfather of
Charles R., moved from Madison county , Kentucky , to Columbia ,
Boone county , Missouri, about 1832, when William was three or four
years old . He practiced law in Columbia for some time and then
bought a farm on Bear creek , where he spent the rest of his days .
He and his wife are buried upon the old Turner homestead in the
family burying-ground . Wm . Turner was married March 25th , 1852 ,

to Miss C. F. McLean , whose father was the first Baptist preacher in
Missouri. She was born and reared in Boone county , Missouri. Her
parents were natives of Kentucky. By their marriage Mr. and Mrs.
Turner had two children , Charles R. and Matilda , who died May
18th , 1875 , and is buried beside her father in the family graveyard .
Wm . Turner was a member of the Christian church , and a member of
the Masonic lodge at Hickory Grove . He went out to New Mexico
to restore his failing health . The trip failed to benefit him . He died
at Santa Fe, New Mexico , on the 26th of May, 1880. Charles R.,
the only surviving child , is living upon the old homestead . He at
tended the State University two years after receiving a good common
school education . Hewas reared upon the farm , and when he reached
manhood chose farming as his occupation . He handles stock , princi
pally cattle , and his chief crop is corn . He has a magnificent farm
of seven hundred and twenty acres in a high state of cultivation . His
house is near the center of section 29 , township 49, and range 11.
He wasmarried December 14 , 1881, to Miss Belle Rogers, daughter of
James and Lizzie ( Philips) Rogers, of this county . He is a member of
the Odd Fellows lodge at Columbia , and withal is an affable, enterpris
ing young gentleman .
I. C. VIVION .
Irvin C. Vivion was born in Boone county , Missouri, on the farm

settled by his parents, ninemiles southeast of Columbia , on the Colum
bia and Cedar Creek gravel road . He was educated partly in Boone
county , finishing his studies at Westminster College , Fulton , Missouri.
After completing his studies he returned to his farm in Boone county.
He was married January 24th , 1865 , to .Mollie , daughter of Robert
and Nancy B. Wallace , of Bourbon county , Kentucky. Seven chil
dren were born to them , three sons and four daughters. Two sons
are dead . Mr. Vivion is a practical farmer and a dealer in cattle . He
owns 540 acres of excellent land , well situated and in a high state of
cultivation . Mr. Vivion's parents , John G. ‘ and Rebecca Robnett
Vivion , emigrated to Boone county in the fall of 1825 .
WILLIAM LITTLETON VICTOR .
William L. Victor was born in Nicholson county , Kentucky, August

19th , 1818. He is the son of William and Eleanor Victor, and was
educated in his native State . Coming to Boone county , Missouri, in
the fall of 1845 , he settled on a farm five miles northeast of Columbia .
-
umrilyo
N , n
--
Mr. Victor was married February 20th , 1845, to Miss Frances , daughter .
of Cumberland and Elizabeth Snell, of Paris , Monroe county , Mis
souri. By this union they were blessed with eight children , six
daughters and two sons , four of whom are living. Mary F. died No
vember 18th , 1860 ; William W., August 26th , 1869 ; Lee, January
22d , 1872 ; Elizabeth E., May 22d , 1873. Julia A., Amanda G.,
Eugenie and Samuel E. are alive at this writing. In 1841 Mr. Victor
accepted a situation in the dry goods store of James G. Fox, at Paris ,
Missouri, with whom he remained two years . He then went to Han
nibal, Missouri, where he assisted in a wholesale and commission store ,
remaining in that business about one year . Leaving Hannibal, he re
turned to Kentucky. In 1845 — as before stated — he came to Boone
county , Missouri, and settled on a farm owned by his wife . Mr. Vic
tor was deputy county collector , under Sheriff Hickman , in 1849—50),
returning a delinquent list of but a fraction over $ 500. He has also
officiated as assessor for his district. Was a member of the Masonic
order before the dissolution of his lodge years ago, and is also a men
ber of the Columbia Grange. Is an elder of the Christian church at
Antioch . He has held this position since the organization of the
church . Mr. Victor owns a fine farm of 570 acres , well watered and
well improved. Mr. Victor has resided on this place since 1845 . He
is largely interested in agriculture . His farm is well calculated for
stock raising, being well adapted to the growth of bluegrass. Mrs.
Victor died January 25th , 1874 , from a hurt received a few days
previous, she having been thrown from a horse while going to church .
Mrs. Victor was forty - nine years old at the time of her death .
MAJ . NATHANIEL W. WILSON .
Maj. Wilson is a native of Kentucky, and was born in Mason

county , December 29th , 1811. His parents were Augustus N. C. and
Caroline R. W. Wilson . Mrs. Wilson was a native of Virginia . She
was born in Goochland county in 1792 , and removed to Mason county ,
Kentucky, in 1807. In 1810 she married Dr. Augustus N. C.Wilson ,
of Maysville, Kentucky . Five years after the death of her husband ,
which occurred in 1820 , she came to Missouri, settling six miles east
of Columbia , on the farm of her brother , James W. Wilson. After
remaining at this place about three years , she moved to Columbia ,
where she built a log cabin in what was then the eastern portion of the
town , but now the center of the city . Mrs. Wilson was a zealous
Presbyterian , a member of the first organization of that name and
faith in the town of Columbia . She was loved and honored for her
hospitality and many Christian virtues . Maj. Wilson came to
Missouri with his widowed mother in 1825. His education , which
had been commenced in Kentucky, was finished at Bonne Femme
Academy, under the instructions of Rev. Robert S. Thomas . Before
completing his studies , however, he went to Old Franklin , then a
flourishing town in Howard county , Missouri, opposite Boonville , in
Cooper county , where he assisted Mr. David S. Lamb in the mercan
tile business. Returning to Boone county after a brief absence, he
resumed his studies under Mr. Thomas , remaining at the academy
about two years. Having completed his education , he returned to his
former place in the store . In 1828 one of the firm removed to
Columbia , and Mr. Williamson came with him . In 1829 Mr.
Wilson and his brother , Josiah W. Wilson , formed a partnership

with Robert S. Barr , for the purpose of engaging in the general
mercantile business. In 1832 he sold out his interest in the business ,
and enlisted for the Blackhawk war, under Capt. Sinclair Kirtley .
After serving two months he was honorably discharged , and returned
to his home in Boone county . His next business venture was a
partnership with his brother-in -law , Caleb S. Stone, father of the
present sheriff of Boone county . They engaged in the mercantile
business at Columbia . The firm remained intact till 1852 , when Mr.
Wilson sold his interest to John H. Field . On quitting the store ,
Mr. Wilson removed to the farm where he now resides , two and a half
miles southwest of Columbia . Previous to the war , and for some
time after the struggle commenced , Maj. Wilson was a Union man ,
and might have remained such but for persecutions of the Federal
soldiers. He lost heavily by the war, being largely interested in
slave property . At the close of the struggle he had nothing but his
farm . He did not fold his arms in despair , however , but went
bravely to work to retrieve his shattered fortunes . His fine farm of
320 acres has been made to blossom like the rose . He has one of the
largest orchards in the county , numbering nearly one thousand fruit
trees. His mansion is centrally located , overlooking his farm .
Surrounding his residence are many beautiful evergreens and forest
trees , presenting to the eye a scene of rare beauty . Maj. Wilson has
always taken an active part in all public enterprises , especially such
as were calculated to promote the educational interests of the people
of his own county . He was at one time treasurer and trustee of the
Columbia college , which formed the nucleus of the State University .
He also assisted in building up the Columbia Female Academy. He

has always taken an active part in the management of the Boone
County Agricultural and Mechanical Association . He was seventy
years old on the 29th of December , 1881. Maj. Wilson was first
married in 1837 to Miss Mary J., daughter of James and Catherine
Stone, of Richmond , Kentucky. Mrs. Wilson lived but one year and
a half after her marriage . In 184- he was again ·married . His
second wife was Mary Ann Burnam , of Richmond , Kentucky , sister
*)
of John F. Burnam , formerly of Columbia , now of Raton , New
Mexico , also Eld . E. H. Burnam , of St. Louis , and Maj. C. F.
Burnam , of Richmond , Kentucky, a distinguished lawyer and former
assistant- secretary of the United States Treasury .
JOHN FREDERICK WILKINSON .
This gentleman , one of the leading agriculturists of the county ,

was born in Charlotte county , Virginia , December 9th , 1834. His
parents were Samuel and Martha ( Cook ) Wilkinson , who moved
from Virginia to the neighborhood of Jefferson City , Missouri.
From there John Frederick went to Franklin county , this State , where
he lived till he was 21 years old . He then moved to Morgan county ,
and after remaining three years, went to Warren county , where he
continued seven years. Returning to Franklin county , he came from
there to Boone county in 1868. His education was received chiefly
in Washington , Franklin county , and he was married September 1st,
1868 , to Miss Sarah C., daughter of Anderson and Elizabeth Burges .
Four sons and three daughters have been born of this union : John
W., Anderson B., Martha E., Arthur E., Alice M., Carrie A., and
Hugh . Mr. Wilkinson has been a farmer all his life. He owns a
very excellent farmof 226 acres, with fine improvements, and a good
supply of timber and water , situated five miles east of Columbia , on
the St. Charles road. His place is indeed a model farm , and there are
few better appointed places anywhere . He also owns 160 acres one
and a half miles south of his homestead , and a fine farm of 252 acres
in Henry county , this State . All the improvements on his place have
been made within the last fourteen years.Mr Wilkinson is a self
made man in every sense of the term , and had the pluck and energy to
acquire the nucleus of his present fortune by chopping and selling
cordwood to the Missouri river steamers. Mr. Wilkinson and his
son , John W., belong to the Methodist church , in which the former
is steward . Mrs. Wilkinson also belongs to the same church .
BENJAMIN S. WILSON .
The subject of this sketch is a son of William S. and Matilda

( Hearn ) Wilson , and was born in Woodford county, Kentucky, May
24th , 1857. His father was a native of Kentucky, born in 1831,
and died in 1861. His mother was born in 1832 , and died in 1868 ,
in Adams county , Illinois , to which State she , and her only child , Ben
jamin , had removed in 1866. They were members of the Episcopal
Church . Benjamin S. cameto Boone county , Missouri, in April, 1874 ,
and bought a farm of 170 acres , ten miles northeast of Columbia , and five
miles east of Brown's Station . He received his education in Illinois .
Hewas married January 24th , 1876 , to Miss Etta Lee , daughter of

W. H. and Elizabeth ( Skinner ) Winn , of this county . Both himself
and wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church at Grandview .
Mr. Wilson is a worthy member of the Masonic Lodge No. 81, of
Hickory Grove. He is one of the most enterprising young men of
Boone county , taking an active part in the politics of his county . In
1882 he entered the race for the assessorship , but was compelled to
withdraw in the middle of the campaign by reason of a severe illness,
which prevented his continuing the canvass. Such men as he are the
country's life-blood and hope in the years to come.
L. E. WRIGHT.
This gentleman was born in Boone county, Missouri, in 1838. He

is the son of James K. and Myra Wright. His father was born in
Bourbon county , Kentucky, May 28 , 1809 . He came to Boone
county in the fall of 1826 , and settled upon the Two-mile prairie .
He was married in Columbia in 1836 , to Miss Mira J., daughter of
Peter and Jeannette E. Wright. Mrs. Wright was born March 17 ,
1815. They had six children , four boys and two girls, only two of
whom are now living, L. E., and Paul M., both in Boone county.
The Wrights were among the earliest settlers of the county , when
the Indians were yet lurking in the forests, and were ready to toma
hawk their unwary foes. L. E. Wright was married , November 30 , 1865
to Miss Kate E. Turner , daughter of Barney and Mary Turner of
Boone county . She was born in Kentucky, but camewith her parents
to Missouri some years before . They are blessed with three children .
Peter , Myra and Mary . Mr. and Mrs. Wright are members of the
Christian church at Oakland , and he is a worthy member of the Odd
Fellows lodge . His residence is five and one -half miles northeast of
Columbia . Mr. Wright has quite a curiosity in an old atlas published

in 1809 by Matthew Carey . It was bought by his grandfather, William
Wright, the price paid being ten dollars. He has also quite a collec
tion of very old letters. One was written by his grandfather from
St. Charles, he being a member of the legislature there at that time.
It was to his wife and was directed to “ Mrs. Jane Wright, Two-Mile
Prairie, Boone County , Missouri, to be left at Maj. Estill's house
between Fayette and Boonville ." This will give the readers of this
sketch an idea of the mail facilities in Boone in those early days . In
the letter was a profile of the writer himself, cut out of a piece of
white paper , and a piece of black satin placed behind it. Mr. Wright
is a farmer and an extensive dealer in stock . His father James K.
Wright was engaged in the mercantile business all his life .
GEORGE M. WRIGHT.
The subject of this sketch was born in Boone county , Missouri,

April 3d , 1839. He was the son of Wesley and Polly ( Potts ) Wright
and was born upon the farm where he is now living. His father,
Wesley Wright was born within five miles of Nashville , Tennessee ,
and came with his parents to Boone county , Missouri, in 1819 , where
he lived until 1850 , when he went to California . He died on his way
home and was buried at Cape Girardeau , Mo., in 1852. Mrs. Wright,
the mother of George M., was born in West Tennessee, in 1808, and
came to Boone county , Missouri, when she was eight years of age.
She died in 1879 , and is buried at Hickory Grove church . George M.
Wright was thrown upon his own resources when quite a child , and
rightmanfully did he fight the battle of life . Hewent to school dur
ing the winter months, and in summer he worked to earn money for
the next winter's schooling . He afterwards went two terms of nine
months each , to Professors Hurt and M. G. Duncan, of Mexico ,
Audrain county, Mo., taking a very liberal course, but declining
health prevented his graduating as he had intended . He lived with
and took care of his mother , more especially after the negroes were
freed . When the war broke out he espoused the cause of the Con
federacy and joined Capt. Nimrod Norton's company , Clark's brigade.

He was in the battles of Boonville , “ Fulton Races ,” Lone Jack , Pea
Ridge , Drywood , Cane Hill , Helena, Independence and many skir
mishes . Under Gen. Joe Shelby, he was in several days continued fight
ing near Little Rock , Arkansas, fighting Gen. Steele's division U.S.
troops. Mr. Wright was commissioned an officer to rank as Colonel ,
to raise a regiment in Missouri during Shelby's last raid , but the sur
render of Lee in the following spring put an end to the war , and Col.
Wright was mustered out and surrendered to Capt. Cook . He re
turned home without a dollar and went to work upon the old place .
He was married September 16th , 1868 , to Miss Minerva , daughter of
Garland Sims, Esq . By this union they have six children ,Garland Sims,
Lena, Elizabeth , Wesley , George Walter and Ancil. The year he
was married he moved to Audrain county , and lived there until the
spring of 1879 , when he moved back upon the old place . His house
is on the north - east quarter of section 16 , township 49, range 11 ,
and his farm contains two hundred and seventy acres . Mr. Wright is
an energetic , active business man , enjoying the confidence of all who
know him .
ANDREW D. WRIGHT.
Andrew D. Wright was born in Botetourt county , Virginia , Novem

ber 24th , 1823.He is the son of Peter and Sallie ( Persinger ) Wright
who emigrated to Boone county , Missouri, in the fall of 1825 . They
settled on the farm now owned and occupied by the subject of this
sketch , five miles north of Columbia . Mr. Wright was brought up on
the farm and educated at the public schools in the neighborhood of bis
home. He was married January 20 , 1853. He is the father of six
children , one son and five daughters : Ella L. (deceased ) , Mary A.,
Alexander P., Varina D., Anna V. and Sallie L. (deceased ). Mr.
Wright has followed farming all his life, and has lived on the farm he
now occupies for fifty -seven years . When he came to Boone county
it was almost a wilderness . There were but ten or fifteen acres of
cleared land on the farm now owned and cultivated by Mr. Wright.
They were two months on the road in moving from Virginia . The
first mill ever established in his neighborho od was erected by John
Shock and was run by horsepower . The first water-mill on the Hink
son was erected by a man named Hannah . Old Bear Creek church
was the first house of worship he ever attended in Boone, county .
The elder Wright died about the year 1835 and is buried on the old
Gray farm . His mother died during the war and was buried by the
side of her husband. Mr. Wright was twice married . He had seven
children by his first wife and nine by his second . All the children by
his first marriage are dead . The sons of the second marriage are all
dead , except the subject of this sketch — the daughters are still living .
Mr. Wright and his family are all members of the Christian church .
CHAPTER XIX .
THE CITY OF COLUMBIA .
Early History - General Notes - War Notes - Conſederate Raids — Broadway Block
House The Terrible 66• Tigers Business During the War -- Death of Warren
Woodson — Price's Addition - Stephens College - Christian College - A Walking
Statesman Business Interests — Newspapers - History of the “ Herald ” -The Pub
lic Schools - Churches – Secret Orders - Biographies of Old Settlers and Prominent
Citizens.
EARLY HISTORY .
So much of the early and general history of the city of Columbia

is given in other chapters of this volume, that but little is left to be
siid here . A few additional facts remain to be here stated . The
complete history of the city would alone make a large volume, and no
attempt will here be made to present it in extenso . Certain matters
of importance will be put on record , and many things of interest must
perforce be omitted .
FIRST DEEDS .
The land on which the first town plat of Columbia was located was
patented by the United States to Anderson Woods, in the spring or
summer of 1817. November 14 , 1818 , Anderson Woods and others
conveyed the land ( the southeast quarter of section 12 , township 48 ,
range 13) to Thos . Duly , Gerard Robinson , Taylor Berry , David
Todd and Richard Gentry . April 6 , 1821, Duly , Robinson ,
Todd and Gentry , a majority of the board of trustees , con
veyed to Lawrence Bass , David Jackson, John Gray, Jefferson Ful
cher , “ commissioners to fix upon and locate a permanent seat of jus
tice in the county of Boone,” fifty acres of land , “ and other public
lots , commons and streets ." June 26 , 1828, Wm . Jewell , George Sta
pleton , Gerard Robinson and Thomas Story , for a consideration of
$615.25 , conveyed another portion of the town site to John Grey ,
Jefferson Fulcher , Lawrence Bass and David Jackson , the commis
sioners of Boone county . This deed of conveyance is still in exist
ence , in the possession of Thomas L. Bass .
In 1822 there were but a few houses in town, mostly one-story log
buildings . Among the business men were Chas . Hardin , who kept a
tin yard down on Flat Branch ; Sam W. Scott, who had a blacksmith
shop on Broadway ; John H. Van Horn , a cabinet maker, and Daniel
51
Wilcox, a physician and surgeon . Doubtless there were others whose

names cannot now be learned .
In 1823 the number of inhabitants in Columbia was 130-- fourteen
more than there were in Boonville at that time. By 1824 Columbia
had grown to be a village of considerable size and enterprise. In
addition to those heretofore published , stores had been established by
Oliver Parker and Robert Hood on the northwest corner of Broadway
and Seventh streets, by Robert S. Barr , James I. Tilton and Joseph
B. Howard , on the northeast corner of Broadway and Eighth streets ,
and the first brick store had been built by Richard Estes, on the
southeast corner of Broadway and Seventh streets. The only lawyers
known to have resided here at that time were A. B. Lane, Samuel
Wheeler and Jesse T.Wood , and the only physicians, Doctors William
Jewell and Daniel P. Wilcox .
Stephens's sketch says that the first church built in Columbia was
the Presbyterian , which was situated on the southwest corner of Sixth
and Walnut, and was erected in 1830. Its first pastor was Rev. Wm .
P. Cochran . At the same time, however , Methodist and Baptist
organizations were in existence and held regular services . The Bap
tist minister was the Rev. Allen McGuire ; the pastor of the Metho
dist church was Rev. John Greenlagh . The first presbytery held
in Columbia conyened October 4 , 1829 , Rev. John S. Beel, mod
erator .
The first temperance society was organized in the spring of 1830 .
Its officers were Rev. John Greenlagh, president ; James Callaway ,
treasurer ; Andrew Hannah , auditor ; Rev. Wm . P. Cochran , secre
tary . The organization was auxiliary to the American Temperance
Society . At that time the organization found the field white for the
harvest. Whisky was a common beverage , and sold under scarcely
any restrictions of law . Drunkenness and ruffianism were rife, iind
there were frequent scenes of disorder and violence . The temper
ance society did much good in the way of reforming divers and sundry
drinking men and making good citizens of them .
In 1830 the population of Columbia was about 600. The principal
business men were Dr. Alex . M. Robinson , Dr. Jas . H. Benson ,
James C. Boggs , druggists, and Oliver Parker, Wm . Barr, Joseph B.
Howard , A. J. Williams, Moses W. Miller, Jacob Payne, Wm . Cor
nelius and Samuel Stone, proprietors of dry goods, grocery and gen
eral stores . The ministers were Reverends John Greenlagh , Wm . P.
Cochran , Christopher Gentry and Allen McGuire, The attorneys

were W. K. Van Arsdall, B. F. Robinson , Sinclair Kirtley , John B.

Gordon , Jesse T. Wood. The physicians were Wm . Jewell , A. M.
Robinson , J. H. Bennett and Daniel P. Wilcox . Taverns were kept
hy E. McClelland , Edward Camplin and Samuel Wall. During this
year Gen. Richard Gentry succeeded Chas. Hardin as postmaster .
Upon Gen. Gentry's death , in 1837, his wife, Mrs. Ann Gentry ,
through the personal exertions of Senator Thos . H. Benton , was
appointed postmistress, and held the office for many years .
In 1831 , in addition to those in business in Columbia in the previous
year, there were the following : Attorneys, Calvin L. Perry , Austin
A. King ( afterward Governor ) , E. P.Mills and Washington Jenkins ;
merchants , Wm . H. White ( associated with Win . Cornelius) , John
Garnett, and Wm . Provines ; saddlers, John Bostick and George
Harrison ; jewelers , Shelton Jones and Thomas L. Barrett ; shoe
makers, J. & J. Martin .
In 1839 the State University was located at Columbia , full particu

lars of which event are given in other chapters of this history . From
1835'to the present date no event of historic importance occurred in
Columbia , not already noted . Meanwhile the town grew slowly and
surely. Those who came to the place , as a rule , were wealthy, cul
tured and refined people, attracted by its educational and kindred
advantages , and in consequence Columbia society came to be known
as being of the very highest order , and this reputation it has never
lost .
During the period from 1847 to 1850 the following were some of the
principal citizens of the place : Ministers , Isaac Jones, Robert S.
Thomas, Thos. M. Allen , S. S. Church , D. P. Henderson and
Paxson ; teachers , John H. Lathrop , W. M. Hudson , Prof. Leffing
well, Geo . C. Pratt, J. D. Perryman , Dr. Litton , Geo . H.Matthews ;
attorneys, James S. Rollins , John B. Gordon , Saml. A. Young, A.
W. Turner , H. F. Garey , L. W. Robinson ; physicians, Wm . H.
Duncan , T. R. H. Smith , Wm . Provines , Wm . H. Lee, N. B. Spots
wood , Wm . Jewell, James H.Bennett, H. M. Clarkson , J. W.Goodin ,
W. P. Thomas. The leading merchants were W. W. Wilson , J.
Kirkbride, J. B. Howard , G. G. Schoolfield , R. S. Barr, Moss Prew
itt, John Field , Parsons & Moult, James L. Stephens , R. C. & M.
Branham , J. C. Kuykendall , Wm . W. Stone, Townshend Stewart,
J. R. Boyce , Alexander Douglass, Wm . H. Bast , S. A. Maupin ,
Thos. J. Hardin ; tavern -keepers, James Richardson , Mrs. Ann
Gentry and Thomas Selby.
SOME NOTES OF WAR TIMES .
In April, 1861, about three men's hats covered the unconditional

Union men of Columbia who had the nerve to proclaim their principles
at all times and under all circumstances . Gen. Odon Guitar was the
possessor of one of these hats . He avowed himself to be , at all haz
ards, on the side of the Federal Government , against which he de
clared it would be treason to fight. A petition was presented to the
county court to appropriate $ 10,000 to arm the militia of the county to
defend the sacred soil of old Boone from Federal invasion . Guitar
was county attorney at the time. The court-room was crowded with
the friends of the petition , whose attorney made a strong speech ,
urging the court to make the appropriation . Guitar denounced the
scheme as treasonable in the highest degree , mincing no words and
polishing no phrases. His speech is declared to have been a most
bold and eloquent effort, and one that tended to makemany a half-way
Union man fully confirmed in his faith . The court refused to make
the appropriation .
The merchants of the city kept their powder in a magazine near the
court-house . The secessionists concluded to capture it. The major
ity of the merchants were quite willing that their powder should be
captured by the friends of the Confederacy, but one or two Union
men were opposed to this. Odon Guitar and a few others interviewed
one merchant and obtained his permission to guard his powder in the
magazine. They posted themselves , well armed , one night, resolved
to fire upon any squad that might approach the magazine. Guitar
was called up town at one time, being about half-an-hour away.
While he was gone the Secessionists came up to themagazine , opened
it , and bore away some dozen kegs of the powder , in triumph and
in safety . The Union men had their guns trained on the Secessionists ,
but would not fire without orders from Guitar, who was absent. It
was lucky that no collision did take place . Had one Secessionist been
killed the fight would have opened between fellow -citizens , and, dread
ful as the war turned out to be, in such an event it would have been
:still more dreadful.
When the Confederates raided the town in 1862, one Southern lady
hung out a Confederate flag and stood in her door -way and waved a
handkerchief. In a few minutes the Confederates had retreated , and
Merrill's cavalry were in the town . Then the lady's husband hauled
in the rebel flag and ran out the stars and stripes . This was not the
only Columbia family equal to every emergency during the war .
Very many of the Confederate sympathizers were forced by Col.

Merrill and Col. Shaffer to feed rebel prisoners and sick confined in the
University and the hospital at Columbia . The unfortunate " rebels "
were thus sure of a good meal, and the Federals obeyed the injunction
of the Duke of Wellington , to “ forage off of the enemy in every way
you can . "
The upper rooms of the University were used as prisons for the
confinement of Confederate prisoners. On one occasion they sought
to break out . The attempt was a failure . Two or three made their
way into the garret, where they were discovered and assaulted by their
guards, and desperately wounded .
The Federals used the cupola of the court-house as a look - out.
Here two or three sentinels were kept on the watch continually , as
the point commanded a view of all the roads leading into the town .
The cupola of the University was also used as a watch -tower.
Just after the invasion of the county by Todd's and Anderson's
guerrillas , and the massacre and battle of Centralia , Columbia was
placed under martial law . The able -bodied male citizens , irrespect
ive of party or political sympathy , formed a company to defend the
town against an expected and much -dreaded raid of the bushwhack
ers . A block house was built in the middle of the street , at the cor
ner of Eighth and Broadway, to be used as a tower of refuge and of
strength in the day of battle and of raid . The military company was
called by the terror-inspiring name of " Tigers,” the cognomen being
supposed to indicate the fierce and desperate nature of the members ,
and giving fair warning to all bushwhackers to keep away from their
lair and to beware of their cruel fangs , as it were. Really , however ,
the company might with propriety have been called the “ Snow
White Lambs ," so harmless were they , and so gentle , and withal with
such an aversion to the smell of " villainous saltpetre .” They could
hardly be called “ tigers," having in view the fitness of terms.
The “ Tigers " had barrels of fun all the same. It was such jolly
sport to shirk duty , such as standing picket , patroling the streets ,
or mounting guard . The penalties for any infractions of duty were
not very severe . Capt. Rollins was of a kindly nature , and when
such fierce warriors as J. S. Dorsey , J. Th . Fyfer, John Samuel and
George W. Trimble , were brought before him for breaches of military
discipline, it may be imagined that the severity of his sentences was
not very extraordinary .
Throughout the entire civil war , even in the most perilous times ,
business was kept up and transacted in Columbia with almost usual

regularity : The town was often under military occupation , with Fed
eral pickets out on every road , but citizens were permitted to pass in
and out freely for the purposes of trade and commerce . Goods ad
vanced rapidly in price as the war progressed and greenbacks depre
ciated , and all of the merchants made money .
On the first of January, 1860, after a continued service of nearly
thirty -nine years as county clerk , Warren Woodson retired from that
office , giving place to Joseph B. Douglass, his worthy successor, and
delivered to the court a most appropriate valedictory which was spread
upon the records and ordered to be published .
In April, 1860, Prof. Sterling Price , Jr., projected an enterprise of
no small moment to Columbia , namely, the purchase of William Y.
Hitt of 165 acres of land adjoining the town and lying immediately
southeast of it, and laying it off into streets, avenues and town lots .
It was known as “ Price's addition . "
After the close of the war , the town began to build up very sub
stantially . Broadway and other streets were macadamized and put

in first-class order , and from year to year new and substantial brick
business houses were built along Broadway and other streets , until
now , as previously stated , there is not a handsomer town in Missouri
than Columbia . There is a good system of sewerage and the town is
lighted with gas.
Its three colleges, all of the highest order, attract hundreds of
people to the place from year to year and cause it to be well and fav
orably known abroad . Students attend these institutions from States
and Territories hundreds of miles away . Recently there have been
graduated from the female colleges, Indian maidens, whose standing
in their classes was high, and whose orations merited and received
the heartiest applause. The college commencements uniformly at
tract many visitors from different parts of the country . In this con
nection , historical sketches of the two female colleges of Columbia ,
the Christian and the Stephens , will be given . The University has
its history , full and elaborate to exhaustion , in other chapters of this
volume.
STEPHENS COLLEGE .
This school, like all similar institutions ofmodern learning ,has had
a growth and development from one of smaller pretensions , to
its present status of importance among the colleges of the State . The
nucleus of Stephens College, was the old “ Columbia Female
Academy,” which was organized in 1833; and was the outgrowth of

the first demands of the times for a school of more extended culture
than Columbia and vicinity had yet had . Miss Lucy Wales first had
charge of the academy after its organization ,and she was succeeded in
turn by Prof. Eleazar [not Edward ] Root, Oliver Cunninghani, D.
Perryman and Tyre C. Harris. While the school was thus in oper
ation , some denominational differences sprang up , which resulted in
changing the academy from a non -sectarian to a Baptist school, under
the name of the “ Baptist Female College.” The same course gave
rise to the establishment of “ Christian College ,” a history of which
is given in this work . The academy passed out of existence in 1853,
and was succeeded by the denominational school above named , which
was organized in 1856 , and chartered in 1857. Several thousand dol
lars was subscribed towards purchasing buildings , etc., and several
thousand more was donated to pay off an old mortgage debt on the
property and to improve the buildings and grounds. Among the
more liberal contributors of the early days of the school were James
L. Stephens, Noah Flood , J. M. Robinson , Warren Woodson , John
Moss , David Hickman , William Hickman , Thomas Hickman , Judge
James Harris , Moss Prewitt, Robt. T. Prewitt, Eli Bass , and others .
The first board of curators were David H. Hickman , Warren Wood
son , James Harris , Eli E. Bass , William T. Hickman , R. C. Branham
and Moss Prewitt . D. H. Hickman was president of the board , and
Warren Woodson secretary . Rev. W. R. Rothwell was the first
president of the Baptist Female College , but retired in 1857, and was
succeeded by Rev. X. X. Buckner , who presided till 1859. Rev. Mr.
Pendleton , of Illinois, was president from 1859 till 1860 , and Rev. J.
T. Williams from 1860 to 1866 , who was succeeded by Rev. J. H.
Hollis, who held the position till his death , in 1869, when he was suc
ceeded by E. S. Dulin , who presided during the transition period be
low mentioned .
In 1870 , the school was changed from one local in its nature to a
college, under control of the Baptist General Association of Missouri.
The history of the adoption by the association is as follows : - " At a
meeting of the Baptist General.Association of Missouri, in 1869, the
necessity of establishing a denominational school for the higher educa
tion of our daughters was made the subject of earnest consideration .
A committee was appointed to report upon this subject at the nextmeet
ing of the General Association . In 1870 this committee reported in
favor of establishing such a college , and it was decided hy the dele
gates then in session to take immediate steps toward accomplishing

this end . At this juncture the curators of the Baptist Female College
at Columbia , Mo., offered their buildings and grounds, valued at $ 35 ,
.STEPHENS
OLUMBIA
COLLEGE
FEMALE
,M
C O
2012
000 , to the association for this purpose . In addition to this offer ,

and with the provision that the Baptist College was accepted as the
State school, Brother James L. Stephens, of Columbia ,munificently
offered to start an endowment fund hy giving $ 20,000 to the college.

The offers were accepted , and the Female College becamethe property
of the General Association .” The name was changed in October,
1870 , to that of " Stephens Female College ,” in honor of the liberal
gentleman , James L. Stephens, who gave it its largest endowment .
Rev. Dulin was succeeded , in 1879, by Prof. R. P. Rider , who con
tinues to preside at the present writing. The college is beautifully
located in the suburbs of Columbia on East Broadway, and with its
wide lawn and majestic forest trees, is in itself an educating medium .
The buildings are spacious and convenient , lighted throughout with
gas , and sufficiently commodious to furnish ample room for a hundred
boarders. The “ Home Department ” is under supervision of the
president and his wife, and so conducted as to render it truly a home
to those consigned to its care .
The following departments into which the school is organized , show
it to be an institution meeting all the requirements of modern culture :
1st , School of English, leading to degree of Baccalaurea Literarum ;
2d , School of History and Literature, leading to the same degrec ;
3d, School of Natural Science , leading to degree of Baccalaurea Sci
entarum ; 4th , School of Mathematics , degree B. S. ; 5th , School of
Languages , degree B. L ; 6th , School of Philosophy, degree B. L. ;
7th , School of Biblical History , degree B. L. ; 8th , School of General
Culture , degree Baccalaurea Artium . In addition to these is the
Post-Graduate School, for a course still in advance of the college
course , and School of Didactics , for special benefit of those desirous
of becoming teachers. The schools of music , art and elocution , are
up to the standard of any of the rival institutions of the State . The
daughters of ministers who have died in the service of the Baptist
church , and of those living ministers who devote their entire time to
ministerial labors , are here permitted to enjoy special advantages,
and are educated at a nominal cost . All things considered , this col
lege takes rank with the best institutions of general culture in theWest ;
and few schools, if any, can offer better advantages to those desiring
a thorough education and Christian training for their daughters .
CHRISTIAN FEMALE COLLEGE .
On the resignation , in 1849, ofthe presidency of the State University

by John H. Lathrop, the board of curators elected to that position
James Shannon , LL . D., of Bacon College , Harrodsburg , Kentucky.
In November of the same year Samuel Hatch and H. H. White of
Harrodsburg , who, with President Shannon , were members of the

Christian church , proposed on certain conditions to establish in Colum
bia a “ Female College Institute ” of the highest grade, and Dr.
Hatch visited Columbia with a view of inaugurating the enterprise.
Much general public interest was awakened on the subject, and sev
eral meetings of our citizens of all parties and denominationswere held
to consider the proposition . Irreconcilable differences as to details
were disclosed , especially among members of the several churches ,
and the result was that the enterprise , on the conditions proposed by
Hatch and White , was abandoned .
It is due the truth of history , however, to say that out of these
PHOH
DIE
NTFS
JET-HN
RICHES COO
CHRISTIAN FEMALE COLLEGE , COLUMBIA , MO .
differences arose , on the part of the members of the Christian Church ,

a comiendable determination to establish a female college under the
special patronage of that church , and a like determination on the part
of members of other churches to resuscitate and reorganize the old
Columbia Female Academy.
Rev. Tyre C. Harris , a Baptist minister, was called to the presi
dency of the latter institution , and out of it grew the Baptist College,
called afterwards, and now , Stephens Female College.
Out of the other enterprise grew Christian Female College ; so
that, in truth , the proposition of Hatch and White to establish a
* Female Collegiate Institute finally resulted in the establishment

of two female colleges in the town .
Christian College was chartered by the Legislature , January 18 ,
1851, with the following corporators : James Shannon , T. N. H.
Smith , Thomas M. Allen , D. P. Henderson , W. W. Hudson , Robt.
S. Barr , Thomas D. Grant, Levi T. Smith , Dr. William McClure ,
Flavil Vivion , John Jamison , Weston F. Birch , J.J. Allen , J.C. Fox ,
Lewis Bryan , Elijah Patterson , John S. Phelps, Wayman Crow , S. S.
Church and Moses E. Lard , all of whom are dead except four.
The first meeting of the corporators or trustees was held in Colum
bia , February 3d, 1851. T. M. Allen was elected president , and D.
P. Henderson , secretary , and T. R. H. Smith treasurer of the board .
John Augustus Williams, of Harrodsburg , Kentucky, was elected pres
ident, and Miss Rebecca Jane Galbraith , of Jacksonville, Ill., prin
cipal of the department of mathematics and natural science .
The college having no buildings in which to open instructions, the
two -story frame, which was then a very unpretentious structure , and
now occupied as a residence by Dr. W. T. Maupin , was improvised for
the occasion . In August, 1851, the board purchased the then incom
pleted residence belonging to the estate of the late Dr. Jas. H. Ben
nett and the grounds thereto attached , estimated at thirty acres , for
$ 5,500 on twelve months' credit without interest ; and proceeded
through the agency of L. B. Wilkes and H. H. Ready to raise funds
by voluntary subscription to pay the debt and to finish and enlarge
the buildings. By the fall session of the college , which opened on
September 15th, 1851, the buildings were in such condition as to be
occupied ; and on that day the first regular session of Christian Col
lege commenced .
The institution grew rapidly upon the public favor from its very
foundation and during its whole history , except a few years, while the
civil war was raging, was very prosperous. Liberal contributions
of money have again and again been made by its friends, which en
abled the board of trustees not only to extinguish the original debt,
but very largely to add to the improvements and to the ornamentation
of the grounds.
President Williamsresigned in 1856 and was succeeded by Elder L.
B. Wilkes , who, resigning in 1858, was succeeded by the late la
mented Elder J. K. Rogers . President Rogers retained the presidency
until 1877 when , on account of failing health , he 'resigned . Dur
ing his administration of the college , embracing a period of nearly
twenty years, he was remarkably successful in commending the institu

tion to public favor and patronage ; and his name will live as a pleas
ant memory in the minds of hundreds of the most accomplished and
cultivated women of our state.
[ See biography of S. K. Rogers. ]
On the retirement of President Rogers in 1877 , the board unani
mously elected Geo . S. Bryant to fill the vacancy , since which period
to the present time he has most ably and successfully conducted the
institution , which is now regarded as one of the most reputable for
the education of young women in the Mississippi Valley .
The college edifice is a large two-story brick , lighted with gas, and
is most beautifully located in an elm and maple grove just within the
northern limits of Columbia . A more lovely .or eligible site for a
female college could not have been selected . It was originally de
signed by the late Dr. Bennett as a residence for himself and family .
Before it was completed , however, he went to California , like thou
sands of others, in search of gold , and in 1850 , died at Placerville,
in that State .
A WALKING STATESMAN .
At the election of 1878 , Capt. J. W. Kneisley was elected to the

legislature from this county . During the canvass he promised the
people that if elected he would walk to Jefferson City to attend the
session of the legislature . Being elected by an ovewhelming majority,
he left his home in Columbia at 10 A. M. January 2 , 1879. The day
chanced to be the coldest of the season . Capt . Kneisley reached
Ashland at 3 P. M., having made the distance , 15 miles, in five hours .
Here he remained over night, leaving the next morning at 10 and
arriving at Claysville at noon . Here he was given a reception and
made a speech , after which he continued his tramp, reaching Cedar
City, opposite Jefferson , at sunset . He crossed the river on the ice
and reached the capital in safety. Capt. K. was 54 years of age at
the time.
LEADING BUSINESS INTERESTS OF COLUMBIA .
MILLS .
The Columbia Milling Company was incorporated February 6 , 1882 ,

Its members are Gen. 0. Guitar ,
with a cash capital of $60,000 .
president; G. W. Henderson , vice -president and superintendent ; F.
Pannell, secretary ; J. M. Baker , treasurer, and W. T. Anderson .
The company owns the Columbia flouring mills , which have a capacity
of 150 barrels daily ; the Columbia wheat elevator , with a capacity of
100,000 bushels, and the Centralia corn elevator , with a capacity of
50,000 bushels. The Columbia flouring mills have five stones, one
pair of rolls, 22 hovels, and run night and day. The engine is of
80 horse power .
The Farmers' Mills are situated on a one and a half acre lot in the
northwestern part of the city . The main building is 24x40 feet, with
a wing 12x20 . The flouring mill contains three run of burrs, and
uses the Morse elevating bolt. The machinery is driven by an engine
of forty -horse power . The mill has a capacity of 40 barrels of flour
in ten hours , and 150 bushels of corn meal. The saw mill cuts 6,000
feet of lumber per day. Ten men are employed in the mill. The
mill building is entirely new , completed in the summer of 1882. It
is three and one- half stories high including the basement. Maupin ,
Smith & Co., proprietors . Superintendent, R. H. Smith , a practical
miller of 35 years experience .
NEWSPAPERS . THE STATESMAN . "
[ For a history of the Missouri Statesman , the reader is referred to

the first chapter of the general history . For history of the Sentinel
see biographical sketch of Wallace J. Davis , Esq . ]
HISTORY OF THE " HERALD . "
On February 5 , 1869, C. P. Anderson & Sons, who had recently

removed from California , Missouri , issued in Columbia the first num
ber of the Boone County Journal, an eight column Democratic paper .
Dr. E. W. Herndon was the editor, but had no pecuniary interest in
the paper . The Journal grew rapidly in
in circulation . On April 13 ,
1870, Edwin W. Stephens of Columbia purchased a half interest in
the Journal newspaper and job office and succeeded Dr. E.W.Herndon
as editor. He also made a number of important changes in the
typographicalarrangement and appearance of the paper and enlarged
and improved its news departments . On January 1 , 1871, the name
was changed to the Columbia , Missouri, Herald and has so continued
since . The circulation of the Journal doubled during the first six
months after Mr. Stephens became editor and the Herald , its suc
cessor, hasmaintained constantly during its whole history a circulation
probably unsurpassed by any country paper in the State . In Decem
ber , 1872, Mr. Stephens purchased the interest of his partner , Mr. C.
P. Anderson , and has remained sole proprietor to this time. The

paper was increased from eight to nine columns, being 29x44 inches ,
folio , and has continued that size since . In 1879 the Herald , which ,
from its origin , had been printed on small pica and brevier type,
appeared in an entirely new and beautiful dress of long primer and
brevier , and has been since that date the handsomest newspaper in
the State . The Herald has always had a liberal subscription and
advertising patronage . Few papers not of metropolitan pretensions
are so extensively patronized at home or abroad . In addition to a lib
eral patronage from its immediate community , it has received annually
since under the present management an average of $ 1,000 worth of
advertising from St. Louis, an achievement no less creditable to the
Herald as a medium than to the excellent business standing of its
section of the State in the evidence thus given the appreciation of it
abroad . In 1881 Mr. Marcellus Dimmitt , a gentleman of fine busi
ness and literary accomplishments, became associate editor of the
Herald and pays special attention to the advertising department . The
Herald has probably done more than any other paper in Central Mis
souri to develop the feature of local news in country journalism .
Some ten years ago county papers in this section contained not one
tenth the local news as at present. The Herald opened at once sev
eral columns of county correspondence , local brevities , personals and
other items of local news, in which it was soon followed by other pa
pers of the section until now the local feature is the overshadowing
one of country journalism . The Herald has always been Democratic
in politics.
THE PUBLIC SCHOOLS .
The academies and other graded schools in Columbia that were in

existence at an early
day are described in the general history . It
only remains to speak
of the private schools of less pretensions.
These were of the character known as subscription schools and were
attended by small children or those of parents in modest circum
stances. The number of these schools between 1820 and 1840 can
not now be computed , nor can the names of the teachers be ascer
tained , so as to set themdown in the order in which they taught .
There are yet living in Columbia old men , gray and bald now , who
were roguish boy-students at these same schools .
'or many interesting anecdotes of the early schools let the reader
interview R. L. Todd , John M. Samuel, Odon Guitar, and James L.
Stephens. Particularly let him call on Gen. Guitar for a narration of
themanner in which he wilfully assaulted a schoolmate on one occasion

and came near putting out his eye , because the aforesaid schoolmate
jeered at “ Ode," who was then a prisoner , immured behind the school
room door .
In was not until in the '50's that the public schools of Columbia
amounted to much in the way of educational institutions. The school
board rented houses in different quarters of town from time to time.
Even after the war there was the “ Broadway school," the “ Mission
school," and other schools. In 1871 the old Methodist church , on
lower Broadway, was purchased and used as a school house for some
time.
January 13, 1881 , the board of education instructed one of its mem
bers, Capt. Jas . A. Adams, to get up plans and estimates for the cost
of a new school building . February 22d , the board ordered an elec
tion to be held on the 5th of April for the purpose of authorizing said
board to make a loan to the amount of $ 12,500 to be used in pur
chasing a site , erecting a new school building and furnishing same for
said district at a tax of forty cents on the one hundred dollars. At
the same time two sites were presented to the voters at the annual
election , to choose from as to fixing the location of the new building .
One of these sights was known as the Turner property , containing
four acres, which was offered to the board for $ 2,500 . The other was
the Dimmitt property , which contained five acres , and was offered for
$ 3,250 .
The proposition to build a new house was carried : Ayes, 455 ; nays,
58. For the site known as the Gabriel Turner property , 356. For
the sight known as the Fred R. Dimmitt lot, 75. Whole number of
votes cast on the loan , 528 , of which 352 are two -thirds. Majority for
loan over the two-thirds, 108. On the question of site the Turner
property, carried by 4 votes over the two-thirds. Therefore the elec
tion settled affirmatively both the loan and site , and the board pro
ceeded at once to issue bonds for the amount voted , to agree upon :
plan for the building, and to make a contract for its erection .
The bonds issued under this authority were sold at par and accrued
interest, bringing $ 12,604.16 , which with the money derived from the
sale of the old school house , amounting to $1,055 , raised the build .
ing fund to $ 13,659.16 . Much difficulty : was experienced to erect
with themeans at hand a building at once appropriate, commodious ,
safe and strong, as $ 2,500 had been paid , according to vote , for
the site alone , and four acres of ground, leaving as available funds
$ 11,159.16 . There was spent on the building $ 11,706.88, overrun

ning the fund $547.72 .
The building is on an elevated and most beautifuland commanding
site in the northern suburbs of the town, overlooking the town on the
south and the adjacent country on all sides . Briefly described , it is
a two -story brick structure , 65 feet front by 70 feet deep , with two
wings, one north , the other south , 14 by 32 feet . Height of
building to the square , 35 feet , covered by a shingle roof,
hipped on all sides (43,000 shingles ) , and deck and belfry cov
ered with tin , 28 squares. In the whole building there are 60 large
windows with Venetian shutters and three double doors , one at the
front or eastern entrance, and one each at the western side of the
wings , in which are the stairways. On the lower floor of the building
there are four recitation rooms 24 by 28 feet, with 14 feet ceilings .
Hallway from front door , 12 feet wide, communicating with the hall
way (running north and south between the rooms on the east and
west ), which is 10 feet wide and 65 feet long. At either end of this
hall, in a wing of the building, is a platform stairway 41/2 feet wide
communicating with the upper story . On the west side of the upper
hall are two recitation rooms, 24 by 28 feet, 16 feet ceilings , with a
library room 12 by 28. On the east side of the hall is the chapel, 28
by 65 feet, 16 feet ceiling , two doors and 12 windows. Oiled and
varnished yellow -pine wainscoting and patent-mortar blackboards are
in every room and in the chapel , and each recitation room has a cloak
and hat room attached . Large coal stove furnaces, a new and highly
approved patent for which many merits are claimed , warm each room
and the chapel. All the recitation rooms, and the chapel in part, are
provided with the latest improved seats. Surmounting the building
on the east and above the front entrance is a handsome belfry — the
whole building presenting architecturally a symmetrical and com
manding appearance, a fitting monument to the cause of education , an
honor to our people and a credit to the builders .
Mr. B. McAlester , was the architect. The contract for the whole
building just as it stands, seats and warming apparatus excepted , was
Jet to A. T. Duncan , James F. Stewart and John Crist , at $ 11,455 ,
May 24 , 1881. The brick , about 565,000 , were manufactured and
laid by J. D. Fay and Russell Berry ; plastering by E. F. Arthur ;
painting by Mosley & Stewart , and roof of tin by Berry & Matthews,
contractors, George E. Allgair and W. W. Hornberger doing the
work . The building was commenced about the middle of June, and ,
COLUMBIA PUBLIC SCHOOL .
being completed and ready for occupancy , was turned over to the
board and publicly dedicated on Monday , December 19 , 1881. The
Columbia Statesman of December 23, 1881, contained a full account
of the dedicatory ceremonies , from which account it is learned that
the dedication took place in the chapel in the presence of the entire
school, who with the teachers marched in a body from the old build
ing on Broadway with music and banners, and a large auditory of citi
zens ; the Columbia brass band furnished music for the march and for
the dedicatory occasion .
James A. Adams, president of the board , presided . After a song
by the children of the school, two or three hundred in number , prayer
was offered by Rev. Dr. Fisher , when Gen.Guitar one of the board
of education , read a paper turning over the building to the people and
giving a summary of the work of the board , its successfulaccomplish
ments, etc. Next followed a financial statement by Prof. Schweitzer ,
secretary . Following this were very appropriate speeches by Presi
dent Bryant of Christian College, President Rider of Stephens Col
lege , President Laws of the State University and Maj. Rollins, Presi.
dent of the University Board of Curators . Mr. Adams, chairman of
the board of education , then delivered a brief charge and the keys of
the building to Prof. Iglehart , principal of schools , who responded in
a befitting manner . After a closing song by the pupils the audier
was dismissed , and thus ended another notable day in the history of
Columbia .
At present the school contains about 400 pupils. It has six teach
ers Prof. J. J. Iglehart, principal and teacher of the high school
department ; Miss Lizzie Bedford , teacher of the grammar depart
ment ; Miss Alice Banks, teacher of the second intermediate
department ; Miss Kate Hays , teacher of the first intermediate de
partment ; Miss Amanda Lemon , teacher of the second primary
department ; Mrs. J. J. Iglehart , teacher of the first primary de
partment .
The first board of education of the town of Columbia of which there
is a record was elected January 4 , 1873, and held its first meeting three
days later . It was composed of R.H.Clinkscales and W. T. Ander
son , who held till September , 1873 ; J. M. Samuel and R. A. Moore ,
who held till September , 1874 , and T. B. Gentry and J. S. Moss, who
held till September , 1875. T. B. Gentry was the first president and
John M. Samuel the first secretary . The present board is composed .
of Capt. J. A. Adams, president ; Paul Schweitzer , secretary, and.
52
John M. Samuel, treasurer. The other members are D. D. Berry ,

B. A. Watson , and O. Guitar.
THE COLORED SCHOOL .
The first colored school house in Columbia was built in 1866, partly
hy the Freedman's Aid Society . The ground on which the building
stunds was donated by the colored church members of Columbia .
The building was first erected for a Union church, but was occupied as
a school house from the first. It was originally called Cummings
Academy, in honor of its first principal, Prof. Chas. C. Cummings ,
who had charge of the school for ten years.
The house has three rooms. No. 1 will seat 100 pupils ; No. 2 seats
: 80 ; No. 3 seats 40. There are two rooms on the first floor. Room
No. 3 is called the abecedarian department ; No. 2 is the primary de
partment ; No. 1 the grammar and intermediate department. There
are four teachers — Prof. F. H. Lawther , principal and teacher of the
grammar department ; Mrs. Hattie Lawther has charge of the inter
mediate department ; Miss Bettie Hoskins has room No. 2 , primary
department ; Miss Jennie Coleman teaches the abecedarians.
The school ranksas one of the best colored schools in Missouri. The
rooms are very small , however , and during the last session were very
much crowded. The terms are of the same length as those of the
main public schools . In the matter of school privileges the colored
children of Columbia have the same number as the whites .
CHURCHES OF COLUMBIA - BAPTIST.
The Baptist church of Columbia was first organized at the resi

dence of old Charles Hardin , November 22, 1823. The original
members were Hutchens Barrett, Wm . Ridgeway, Charles Hardin ,
Hannah Hardin , Harriet Goodloe, Abraham N. Foley , Wm . Jewell,
George Jewell, Mary Jewell, Henry Cave and Hiram C. Phillips.
From 1823 to 1828 , services were held at private-houses . From 1828
to 1836 the congregation worshipped in the court-house . In 1836
Wm . Jewell ( Baptist ) and Moses U. Payne (Methodist ) built a church
which was used jointly by the Baptists and Methodists for many
years . This church stood where was afterwards John Guitar's resi
dence , lot 241 of the original town plat .
The records of this church from 1823 to 1844 , and from 1844 to
April , 1865 , have been lost, and no authentic history can be given
during those periods. This much is known , however , that in 1837,
when the division in the Baptist church occurred on the subject of

missions, this church almost unanimously sided with the Missionary
Baptists.
The second church building was erected in either 1844 or 1845.
Alfred Keene was the contractor. This building is still standing on
the old public square , just west of the court-house . The site was
deeded by the county court .
The first pastor of the church was Rev. Allen McGuire , who was
elected in August, 1827, and served until his death , March 31, 1835 .
Then came R. S. Thomas, who served till 1843 ; and after him were
Elder Keep , Macy and J. A. Hollis, the latter afterwards the
president of Baptist College . Rev. H. M. Richardson was pastor
from September 28 , 1867, to May 4 , 1871. Rev. B. T. Taylor from
December 4 , 1871, to December 4 , 1872 ; Rev. E. D. Isbell from
May , 1873 , to June 26 , 1876 ; Rev. H. W. Dodge from July 27 , 1876 ,
to the present time. Rev. Dodge refused a call to this church about
forty years ago. The present membership of this church is 252. .
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH .
From a historical sketch in the Columbia Herald , of February 17,

1876 , it is learned that the Presbyterian church of Columbia was
organized September 14 , 1828 , by Revs . Wm . P. Cochrane and Thos .
Durfee , missionaries , who had been sent out to the far West the
HomeMissionary Society of New York . The constitutional meeting

was held at a private residence . The second meeting was held at
Robert Huston's , four miles northeast of Columbia . The original
members were Peter Wright, John Sutton , Elizabeth Sutton , Caro
line Wilson , Wm . Pierce , Harriet Pierce , Robert Huston , and per
haps others .
At the March meeting, 1829, Peter Wright was chosen first dele
gate to the presbytery , then held at St. Charles . September 1 , 1829,
the membership of the church had increased to twenty- five. A few
days after the first meeting Peter Wright and Wm . Pierce were
chosen the first ruling elders. John Vanhorn and Robert Huston
were chosen the first deacons, in the year 1832. The first presby
tery was held August 23 , 1834 , “ on the Presbyterian camp ground,”
two miles north of Columbia . The first members disciplined were
arraigned February 18 , 1830. They were two sisters ( !) “ who,"
.saith the record , “ common fame says, are not living on terms of
Christian friendship . ” A committee visited them and a reconciliation

was effected .
January 1 , 1843, a great revival meeting occurred in this church ,
during which there were about one hundred additions . The meeting
was conducted by Rev. Isaac Jones, assisted by Revs. W.W. Rob
ertson and David Coulter .
The first church building was erected on the northwest corner of
Sixth and Walnut streets, in 1832. It was a brick and cost about
$ 1,000. It was an unpretentious affair , and had neither steeple nor
bell. It was afterwards used as a carding mill. The present church ,
which stands on the corner of Tenth and Broadway ,was built in 1848.
It is a brick , and quite a substantial structure . It contains a hand
some pipe organ , which was purchased in February , 1860, at a cost of
$700. Mr. J. L. Stephens generously paid one- fourth of this cost.
- The following have been the pastors of this church since its organiz
ation :
1828–33, Wm . P. Cochran ; 1833–34 , no pastor ; 1834–35 , F. R.

Gray ; 1835–36 , no pastor ; 1836–38 , J. L. Yantis ; 1838–40, no pas
tor ; 1840–46, Isaac Jones ; 1846-48 , no pastor ; 1848–49, Frank
Hart ; 1849-51, James T. Paxton ; 1851-58 , N. H. Hall ; 1858-61,
S. A. Mutchmore ; 1861-62, M. M. Fisher ; 1864-67, David Coulter ,
1868–70 , B. Y. George ; 1870–71, no pastor ; 1871-76 , R. S. Camp.
bell .
Rev. Wilkie is the present pastor .
CHRISTIAN CHURCH .
This now numerous and flourishing church was organized in 1832 ,

the originalmembers being Elizabeth Stone, Stephen Bedford , Eliza
beth Bedford , Joseph Chiles, Elizabeth Ramsey, Susan Robinson ,
Jane Robinson , Wm . E. Ready , Catherine Teeter and Robert Teeter .
Their first church building was a frame erected in 1841, which served
as a place of worship through many years of success as a church . In
1860 , the present large brick edifice was erected on lot No. 285 , on the
corner of Tenth and Walnut streets . The structure is commodious
and well furnished , and cost $ 8,000 . It was dedicated by Rev.
Moses E. Lord in January, 1861. The following is a list of the
names of pastors that have served the church , from time to time :
Richard Cave, Marcus P. Wills , Thomas M. Allen , S. S. Church , D.
Pat Henderson , James Shannon, L. B. Wilkes, Joseph K. Rogers ,
John W.Mountjoy , Albert Myles , 0. A. Carr, Richard W. Gentry

and John W.Mountjoy again who is the present pastor . The present
membership numbers 400. The church has its regular weekly meet
ings, twice each Lord's day, holds its prayer-meeting on Wednesday
evening , supports a Sunday -school, contributes to missionary enter
prises at home and abroad , and is especially identified with the
organization and success of Christian Female College of Columbia , a
history of which is given in this volume.
CATHOLIC CHURCH .
As early as 1835 mass was celebrated in Columbia by Rev. Father

La Fevre , at the residence of John H.Lynch , whose family was the
only one of the Catholic faith in the town at the time. Those who at
tended from the country were Cornelius Lynch and family , Mrs. Reed
and family , the Keiths and the Robinsons, in all not more than 20
persons. Formany years matters remained in this primitive condition .
The members were true to their faith , and long distances were not
barriers to their attendance on every occasion where the holy sacrifice
was offered . Nor were the laity alone in their zeal. The pioneer
priests will never be forgotten by those who saw them in the storms
of winter and in the heat of summer carrying the “ bread of life "
from one cabin to another throughout the sparsely settled country .
They knew no nationality, race or color. Almost without “ coat or
scrip , ” they administered the sacraments of the church whenever
proper and possible and “ had souls for their hire . " The names of
Rev. Fathers Alamande , Cusick , Murphy, O'Brian , O'Neal, Walsh ,
O'Shea and McKenna ought never to be forgotten for their great devo
tion to religion and the cause of humanity in the early days of Mis
souri. Archbishop Kendrick's visit to Columbia , in 1845, gave en
couragement that a church would one day be built, but many years
came and went and every one of the first settlers had joined the church
triumphant before the structure was erected , and but few of their de
scendants have ever seen it. The first attempt at regular services
was made by Father C.F. O'Leary , in 1876. He celebrated mass in
private houses until after Bishop Ryan's visit in 1877. June 3d , of
that year, the bishop himself said mass in the court-house . On the
same day he delivered the baccalaureate sermon to the students of the
University ; subject , “6. Christ as
as aa Model.
Model . ”" From that timeuntil the
completion of the new church , services were held in the court-house.
Years ago the Catholics owned a lot near where the court -house
now stands , on which they designed erecting a church some day ; but
in 1858 the county court condemned this lot for street purposes and
allowed damages in the sum of $ 80 . No person appearing to claim
this money it was converted into the county treasury , where it lay un
til in 1880, when it and the accrued interest, the total sum amounting
to $ 180 , were paid over to Mrs. Kate Clapp , the duly accredited agent
of Archbishop Kendrick , and to her the credit is due for the investiga
tion which led to the return of this money to the proper hands. In
1880 Mrs. Clapp , Miss McAfee , H. H. Hagan , and G. M.Baumgart
ner were authorized to solicit subscriptions for the building of the new
church . Angust 16th , 1880 , work was begun on the building, and
June 19th , 1881, the first services therein were held .
The church stands on the corner of Locust street and Grand avenue,
Columbia . It is a frame 30x60 feet in size , has a spire seventy -five
feet high , and cost when completed , about $ 2,000 . The lot , which is
125x165 feet in size , cost $ 400 , of which sum Mrs. Clapp paid $ 200 .
Many of the articles used in the adornment of the altar and in the
proper furnishing of the church , were contributed by ladies of
Columbia , of various religious denominations . Many of the Protestant
citizens of the town and county gave liberally toward the erection of
the church , for which the little Catholic congregation desire it said
that they are truly grateful.
In this connection it is but just to say that to Mrs. Catharine Lynch
Clapp, before mentioned , more credit is due for the building of this
church than to any other person. It was she who secured the greater
portion ofthe subscriptions , who superintended , in a great part , the
construction of the building, and saw to its proper furnishing and
equipment, and who subscribed herself sums of money much beyond
her means . She is still an active, zealous member of the congrega
tion , foremost in every good work .
The church has had for pastors, Fathers C. F. O'Leary , W. T.
Stack and John T. Twohey , the present pastor . Services are held
inonthly .
Practically , the first congregation was organized in 1876 , with the
following members : Mrs. Catharine Lynch Clapp, Peter Horan and
family , Larry Rocheford and family , Chas. O'Donnell and family ,
Thos . Loftus and family , T. Freeman and family , 0. Daily and family ,
Winterhalter and family , and G.M. Baumgartner . Mr. Ed .
Farley, and Misses Robinson , McAfee and Lunsford have become
members since . The presentmembership is not far from fifty .
-
METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH , SOUTH .
The history of this church in Columbia had to be gleaned from the

memory of persons who knew something of the facts, owing to the
loss and destruction of the records, there being now no other source
of information . This being the case , errors must of course appear ,
for which our friends will please make allowance .
It was organized before the great political split of 1844, the exact
date of its organization being unknown, but was prior to 1838 .
The names of someof the originalmembers were : Turner Daniels ,
Samuel Austin and wife , Moses U. Payne and wife , Mrs. Elizil
Matthews and son , Milon S. , and Thomas Phillips and wife. For
some time after organization , the congregation worshipped in school

houses and private dwellings . The first church was a union or part
nership edifice , built of brick , the Baptists uniting funds with the
Methodists for this purpose. It cost about $ 2,500. The congrega
tion of the two denominations were both small and poor, and Rev. M.
U. Payne, of the M. E. Church , and Rev. William Jewell, of the
Baptists, agreed to build , jointly , a house of worship . They occupied
the house for service, free from discord , till the erection of another
house . In about 1848 , the Methodists built them a brick church at a
cost of about $ 3,000. It served as a meeting place for about twenty
years. It stood on the south side of West Broadway , and has been
recently torn down . In 1870 , they began an elegant new church on
the north side of east Broadway , which is built of brick and was finish
ed in 1873 , at a cost of $ 20,000 for lot and building. Just before
going to press with this work , the inside was newly decorated with
artistic paper -hanging and painting , which makes it now , both inside
and out, one of the neatest and most comfortable churches in the
county . It was dedicated in 1875 , by the late eminent Bishop , E. M.
Marvin . Columbia and Rocheport were made the same station in
1842, with Rev. Walter Prescott as pastor for two years. He was
succeeded by Wm . A. Rush , for two years , and he by Zachariah
Roberts , for one year. Revs. Joseph Cotton and P. M. Pinkard came
next, the former for one year, and the latter for two. Then , in
about 1850, Columbia was put on a large circuit , with Revs. Holt and
Miller , jointly , on the work for a year . By some it is thought Pink
ard came on again at this time, but all agree that B. H. Spencer was
about that time pastor for two years. After Columbia was made a
station of itself, J. S. Todd , two years ; Rev. Cope, one year ; William
Penn , one year ; Dr. Johnson , two years ; G. W.Miller , three years ;
are the pastors that served up to the war . During the civil troubles ,
James Smith and Dr. De Moss , served one year each . Revs . Taylor ,
Gooch and Chapman came next in order , the first and last one year
each , and the second for two years . The succeeding pastors served ,
each three years, as follows : Jno. D. Vincil, W. H. Lewis , G.W.
Horn , and H. B. Watson , the latter being in charge at this writing.
In the great division of 1844 , the Columbia congregation went with
the Southern wing of the church , and have so continued ever since .
Among the most noted local preachers of early times, were Moses U.
Payne and David Fisher , the former being, perhaps, the greatest bene
factor the church ever had , building the “ Methodists' half ” of the
first church almost entirely out of his own private meanz.
Did space permit , the names of the presiding elders and other
church officials would be given , but they must be omitted in a work of
this nature .
The Church at Columbia is in a flourishing condition and now

numbers about 170 communicants with an interesting and well
attended Sabbath school.
EPISCOPAL CHURCH .
Calvary Episcopal church was organized May 25 , 1855 , with the

following members : -Rev . John W. Dunn (missionary ), E. N. 0 .
Clough , Rebecca N. Clough , Thos. C. Phillips , Margaret Phillips,
Robert Willis and Margaret Willis. The church building was erected
in 1872 , and dedicated December 8 of that year by Rt. Rev. C. F.
Robertson, D. D., Bishop of Missouri. The building is a frame, and
cost about $ 3,000. It stands on lot 209. The pastors of Calvary
church have been : Revs. J. W.Dunn , W. R. Pickman , C. F. Loupe,
F. R. Holman , J. C. Jackson , R. C. Wall, Dr. C. P. Jennings, W.
H. Hopkins, Wm . C. Dawson , A. T. Sharpe and Joseph R. Gray .
The present membership is forty -eight . For fifteen years after its
organization the church struggled along with only from three to five
members . In 1870 , however , it took new life, and its condition grad
ually improved until now ( although without a rector ) it is out of debt,
flourishing and prosperous.
COLORED CHURCHES - SECOND BAPTIST .
This church was organized in the year 1866. Some of the original
anembers were : Henry Payne, Albert Delno, Thos Johnson , Jack
Smith , Henry Oldham , Jane Myers, Polly Hickam , Mary Dorum and
Vina Johnson . The church building was erected in 1873.
frame, and cost $ 2,500. It was dedicated in 1879 by Revs. Edward
Stewart and O. H. Webb . The pastors of this church have been
E. Wildman , Barton Hillman , Jacob Dulin , D. S. Sawyers, J. H.
Homesley , E. Stewart, and the present pastor , Rev. A. Johnson .
In 1874 the church experienced a severe trial. Unfortunate dissen
:sions arose , which resulted in a division , a portion of the members
going over to the A. M. E. church , and some of these are still out.
For the last two years, however , a vigorous spirit of prosperity has
marked the church's career , both spiritually and financially . The
heavy church debt , so long a grievous burden , has been thrown off
by payment, and the outlook for the future is cheering indeed .
Present membership , 194 .
For the first five or six years of its existence the members of the
.church met for worship in the colored public school building . It
was mainly due to the untiring efforts of Elder Henry Williams
that the present church was built.
AFRICAN M. E. CHURCH .
St. Paul's A. M.E. church was organized in the old Sidney Max
field blacksmith shop , in the month of February , 1867, by Rev. E.
M. Doan , then presiding at Jefferson City . Some of the original
members were : Caleb and Mary Bledsoe, C. H. and Ann Boyle ,
Dennis and Mary Lawrence, Lavinia Moss, Thornton and Ann Webb ,
Rebecca Rollins and about twenty others. June 10 , 1868 , the pres
ent church building was erected , H. N. McIntyre , pastor. It was
dedicated in 1871 by Rev. I. N. Triplett . The building stands on
the corner of Fourth and Ash Streets, and cost about $ 2,500. Since
its organization the church has had the following pastors : 1867, H.
N. McIntyre, pastor ; 1868, T. A. Smith , one year ; 1869, Schuyler
Washington , one year ; 1870 , I. N. Triplett, one year ; 1872 , W. B.
Ousler , three years ; 1875, R. Ricketts, two years ; 1877, G. W.
Gaines , three years ; 1878 , J. M. Wilkerson , two years ; 1880, W.
H. Sexton , present pastor . The present membership of the church
is two hundred and eight .
SECOND CHRISTIAN CHURCH .
The Second Christian church of Columbia was organized in 1872 ,

by Rev. Burrel Baskett. Some of the original members were : H.
Williams and wife, Elias Norris and wife , Louisa , Delphina and Mintie
Lange, and Rosa Kimbrough . There were about forty members in
all. The church building stands on Ash Street, lot 371. It was
built in 1879 , and is a comfortable frame building . The house and
grounds cost about $ 1,200 . The church was dedicated in May , 1879 ,
by Elder 0. A. Carr – A. B. Miller, pastor- in presence of Elders.
J.D. Orr , E.F. Henderson and Burrel Baskett. Rev. Burrel Baskett.
was the first pastor, serving from 1872 to 1878. A. B. Miller served
from October, 1878 , to September , 1879, during which period the
church was built . The next year , owing to its indebtedness , the
church was without a pastor . In October, 1880 , Elder E. F. Hen
derson , the present pastor was elected . The presentmembership of
the church is about seventy -five.
SECRET ORDERS - A. F. AND A. M.
Twilight Lodge (Masonic) was organized June 28th , 1866 , and the
following officers duly installed : James C. Orr, W. M .; F. D. Evans ,
S. W .; John W. Carlisle , J. W .; W. H. Gilman , S. D .; Jesse A.
Hollis , J. D .; Alex. Robinson , Sec.; John P. Horner , treasurer ;
R. J. Booth , tyler . Brothers present on this occasion : W. T. Le
noir, J. M. Samuel, R. Maddox , Robt. Beasley . At this meeting
committees were appointed to provide the necessary furniture for
lodge and to make contract with lodge ofGood Templars then meet
ing here for the use of their hall.
June 7 , 1867, furniture and fixtures for hall were purchased , at an
expense of about $500 . This organization continued with marked and
rapid success until November 5th , 1867,when R. W. John D. Vincil (P.
G.M.) was deputized to dedicate the hall and install the officers of
Twilight Lodge 114 , which was done in public, at the Baptist church ,
in the morning , dinner being had at the Virginia Hotel, the day being
observed as a holiday and devoted to Masonic work . The following
list of officers were the first duly elected in the lodge : F. D. Evans,
W. M. ; Well. T. Maupin , S. W .; E. W. Herndon , J. W .; John C.
Conley , S. D. ; R. J. Booth , J. D .; J. Theo . Fifer , Sec.; I. O. Hocka
day, Treas., since which time the following have served the lodge
as W. M., some more than one term : J. C. Orr, Oren Root, Jr., J.
M. Samuel, W. T. Lenoir , James A. Adams, D. D. Berry , W. W.
Garth , W. T. Anderson and A. T. Duncan .
1 Derived from the Columbia Statesman of January 14 , 1881.

R. A. CHAPTER NO . 17 .
Columbia Royal Arch Chapter was organized June 19th , 1867, by

W. W. Robinson , P. H. P., with the following as officers : 0. Root ,
Jr., H. P .; James C. Orr , E. K .; B. McAlester , E. S .; J. Theo .
;
Fyfer, P. S .; F. D. Evans, C. H .; J. C. Conley , R. A. C ; H. W.

Myer , M., 3d Veil ; C. J. Austin , M., 2d Veil ; E. W.Herndon , M.,
1st Veil ; W. H. Gilman , Sec.; J. M. Samuel, Treas The Chapter
was duly chartered as No. 17 , October 10th , 1867 , and the officers
duly elected and installed November 4th , 1867, by Martin Collins,
Grand High Priest. The Chapter increased rapidly in numbers,
and had on its rolls many of the leading and most influential citizens
of this and adjoining towns, including the names of McBride, Hollis,
Biggs and others, who are now among the dead . The following have
officiated as High Priest of the Chapter : 0. Root, Jr., E. W. Hern
don , Well. T. Maupin , Jas. A. Adams, W. W. Garth , 0. Davis,
D. L. Batterton .
ST . GRAAL COMMANDERY NO . 12 .
Organized under dispensation , June 1st, 1869, with the following

charter members : 0. Root, Jr., E. H. Peck , R. W. Johnson , J.
Theó . Fyfer , E. C. More, F. B. Young , E. C. Shortridge, R. J.
Booth , J. G. Norwood, Dep . Gr. Com . J. D. Vincil . Chartered Oc
tober 5th , 1869. October 28th , 1869, first officers elected after char
ter was granted : O. Root , E. C .; J. M. Samuel, Gen .; J. C. Orr ,
Capt. Gen. ; E. C. More , prelate ; F. B. Young, Sr. Warden ; R. J.
Booth , Jr. Warden ; I. O. Hockaday , Treas. ; J. Theo . Fyfer Rec .;
M. Bateman , sword bearer ; W. T. Shock , standard bearer ; W. W.
Garth , warden .
ODD FELLOWS .
Columbia Lodge ( I. O. O. F.) , No. 207, was instituted at Colum

bia ,Missouri, on the 22d day of April, 1869, by D. D. G. M.William
Crump, of Boone Lodge No. 121 , by authority of the R. W.Grand
Lodge of Missouri, with the following charter members : S. Frankford ,
F. Mayfield , Wm . Livingston , P. Hubbard , J. W. Kneisley and
Thomas McCormack . The lodge started with the following officers
;
for first term : P. Hubbard , N. G .; J. W. Kneisley , V. G. ; Robert

C. Dyson, secretary ; George M. Baumgartner , treasurer. Five ini
tiations first night . Receipts of evening, $113. There have been
one hundred and twenty initiations since the lodge was organized .
Present membership , sixty -five . There have been eighteen deaths

out of the number initiated . Cash on hand , $ 2,300 .
LEE ENCAMPMENT NO. 74 , 1. 0. 0. F.,
Was duly instituted by P. C. P. J. W. Peach , D. D.G.P., by author

ity of the M.W.Grand Patriarch of Missouri, at Columbia , Missouri,
on the 26th day of February , 1874 , with the following duly qualified
patriarchs as charter members : J. W. Kneisley , J. E. Larkin , J. W ..
Ficklin , J. P. Mullen , W. P. Boothe, Fred . Mayfield and Frank
Thomas . The following are the first officers : J. E. Larkin , C. P .;
J. W. Kneisley , H. P.; W. P. Boothe, S. W .; J. W. Ficklin , J. W .;
Frank Thomas, scribe ; F. Mayfield , treasurer. Seven additions the
first night .
I. O. G. T.
Banner Lodge, I. O. G. T., No. 180, was organized Sunday night ,

February 9, 1879 , in Presbyterian church , by J. J. Hickman , P. R.
W.G. T. of the world , by the election of the following officers : T.
B. Gentry , W. C. T .; Mrs. Mattie Bates, W. V. T.; Rev. H. W.
Dodge , worthy chaplain ; F. R. Dimmitt, recording secretary ; Mrs.
C. B. Wells, W. A. S .; Mrs. J. L. Matthews, treasurer ; Gordon
Garnett, financial secretary ; Scott Hayes , marshal ; Miss Kate Rider ,
A. M .; Miss Fannie C. Rogers , I. G .; Samuel H. Baker , O. G .; W.
T. Waters , P.W.C.T. The number of chartermembers was between
two and three hundred .
A. 0. U. W.
Boone Lodge, No. 77, Ancient Order of United Workmen , was or

ganized September 24 , 1873 , by John A. Brooks, Mexico district dep
uty , with the following as charter members : A. T. Garth , James M.
Boswell, James F. Stewart , D. P. Richards, Frank Thomas, J. Sam .
Moss, W. W. Batterton , W. F. Hodge , George M. Dearing , Dr. W.
T. Maupin , Eli Hodge , G.M.McConaughey , W.I. Roberts, O. Davis,
J. R. Campbell, J. C. Hall, E. L. Dimmitt, W. W.Garth , Dr. G. S.
Morse , J. H. Potts , Dr. A. W. McAlester , Dr. W. E. Stone. 22 .
The first officers were : D. P. Richards, P. M. W .; W. W.Garth ,M.
W .; J.C. Hall, G. F. ; Frank Thomas, O .; A. T. Garth , guide ; E.
L. Dimmitt, recorder ; W. F. Hodge, financier ; J. S. Moss , receiver ;
G. F. McConaughey , F. W .; J.R. Campbell, O. W .; Dr. W. T. Mau
pin , M. E .; Eli Hodge, W. W. Batterton and Dr. W. E. Stone,
trustees .
KNIGHTS OF HONOR .
“ Prudentia ” Lodge, No. 1919 , K.of H., was organized on Wednes

day night, December 10 , 1879 , by Deputy Grand Dictator W.A. Hal
stead , of St. Louis, who had been in Columbia several days canvassing
the interest of the Knights of Honor, and by the courtesy of the
Knights of Pythias, several meetings were held in their hall , resulting
in the organization of “ Prudentia ” Lodge, K. of H., on Wednesday
night, December 10 , 1879, with the following as charter members :
Dr. W. E. Stone, Fred . Bihr , A. I. Fentem , Dr. G. W. Riggins, L.
E. Esbart , Irvin Switzler, Dr. W. T.Maupin , W. H. Thomson , G. W.
McConaughey , Dr. E. W.Herndon , Rev. J. R. Gray, P. J. Barron ,
Elder N. Hockensmith , Josiah W. Stone, Eli Hodge, R. E. Kirtley ,
Prof. Paul Schweitzer . The following were chosen ard duly installed
as officers for the term ending in June following : Dictator , E.W.
Herndon ; vice - dictator, P. Schweitzer ; assistant dictator , G. W.
Riggins ; reporter, Irvin Switzler ; financial reporter , W. E. Stone ;
treasurer , Eli Hodge ; chaplain , Rev. Joseph R. Gray ; guide , G. M.
McConaughey ; guardian , R. E. Kirtley ; sentinel, Fred . Bihr ; past
dictator Elder N. Hockensmith ; trustees, J. W.Stone,G.M.McCon
aughey , P. J. Barron ; medical examiner , Dr. W. T. Maupin .
DIRIGIMUS LODGE, NO . 37 , K. OF P.,
Was instituted May 12 , 1875 , by B. P. Swygard , of Kansas City , as

sisted by members of Moberly and Kansas City lodges , with the fol
lowing charter members : A. O. Runyan , J. R. Holmes, J. R. Phillips,
E. B. Hays , G. M.McConaughey , T. L. Donovan , Wm . Alexander ,
D. O. Mahoney , E. H. Peck , A. R. Martin , J. A. Thom , F. M. Peck ,
Victor Barth , A. J. Harbinson , J. L. Graham , R. C. Rogers , W. B
Kelliher , J. D. Bowser , O. P. Peck , C. E. Seplart, G. T. Mason ; only
seven of whom are now members , namely ; A. O. Runyan , J. R. Phil
lips , G. M. McConaughey , F. M. Peck , Victor Barth , Wm . Alexander
and J. D. Bowser . After the lodge was instituted , the following offi
;
cers were installed : A. O. Runyan , P. C .; J. R. Holmes, C. C .; J.

R. Phillips, V. C. ; E. B. Hays , P .; J. L. Donovan , M. of E .; G.
M. McConaughey , M. of F .; W. B. Kelliher , K. of R. S.; F. H.
Peck , M. of A .; R. C. Rogers, I. G .; J. A. Thom , O. G.
[ For further historical matter pertaining to the history of the town

of Columbia , the reader is referred to the general history . ]
.830 HISTORY OF BOONE COUNTY .
BIOGRAPHIES .
CAPT . JAMES A. ADAMS.
The subject of this sketch is the son of Robert and Margaret (Bowie )
Adams, of Scotland , in which country he was born November 23, 1833 ;
he came to the United States in 1848, and settled at Canton , Massa
chusetts , where he was educated , attending the public schools of that
city . He afterwards learned the carpenter's trade , at a town called
Maynard , in that State . He came to Boone county , Missouri, in 1858 ,
and formed a partnership with M. M , Bixby for contracting and build
ing. They built the mansion now owned and occupied by Gen.Guitar .
At the breaking out of the war they dissolved partnership . Mr. Adams
enlisted as a private in Company B , Ninth Missouri cavalry , com
manded by . Gen. Odon Guitar . When the company was finally
organized he was elected first lieutenant, and was afterwards promoted
to the position of captain . He had his leg and collar bone broken in
a surprise while in pursuit of bushwhackers ; his horse became un
manageable and dashed against a tree, injuring him as above stated .
After convalescing he was made provost marshal, with headquarters
in the president's mansion , University campus. His company was
ordered to St. Joseph , Missouri, in 1864, and he was appointed a mem
ber ofGen. Fisk's staff, with duties pertaining to the ordnance of that
department. He was mustered out of service at the close of the war ,
and remained in St. Joseph until 1867, when he returned to Boone
county, where he has lived ever since. He is a member of the firm of
Broughton & Adams, manufacturers and dealers in wagons , plows and
agricultural implements. They have a large and constantly growing
business — the largest of the kind perhaps in the State outside of St.
Louis . They make repairing ofmachinery a specialty. They have a
forty -horse engine and a sixty -horse boiler . They average one hun
dred wagons a year. Besides the making of wagons , they prepare
material for a vast deal more than they manufacture outright. This
material is shipped to Kansas, Colorado, and Iowa. This timber is all
procured in Boone county . They employ twenty hands the year round
in their shops , besides a number of people in the country who are en
gaged in getting out and hauling timber to be worked into wagon stuff
at their shop. This shop is the largest industry in Boone county .
Capt . Adams lives on a nice little fruit farm of twenty acres near town ,
with a beautiful hedge in front, presenting to the passer -by a neat and
cosy prospect. He is president of the school board of Columbia ,
which position he has held for several years ; he is a member of the

Masonic order , and has been master of the lodge for three terms. He
was married January 8 , 1864 , to Miss Kate , daughter of Andrew and
Mary Luken . By this union they have four sons and two daughters .
JOHN WILLIAM AMMONS .
The subject of this sketch is the son of John L. and Mary Pace
( Irvin ) Ammons, and was born near Richmond, Madison county ,
Kentucky, February 5th , 1818. His father emigrated to Missouri in
October, 1822. They lived about four years in Montgomery county ,
where his wife , the mother of John W., died . John W. and the
next oldest boy lived with a gentleman named Baker for about three
years, and then went to Old Franklin , Howard county , where their
father had preceded them . In September , 1835 , John W. went to
Fulton , Callaway county , and commenced to learn the cabinet maker's
trade. In February , 1836 , he returned to New Franklin and worked
at the trade he had commenced to learn . His sight becoming im
paired , he abandoned the idea of learning a trade, and went to work
upon the farm of Simeon Switzler . He next went to Rocheport and
worked for a short time at the carpenter's trade ; then removed to
Fayette and assisted in rebuilding Central College which had burned .
By an accident, upon the 21st day of April , 1842 , he broke his leg ,
caused by a falling scaffold , and was unfitted for regular work for six
years. He then taught and went to school alternately until April 1st,
1848 , when he went to the Indian manual labor school, about seven
miles from where Kansas City was afterwards built. He started to
California , but stopped at Kansas City , and assisted in building the
first grist mill ever put up in that city . He next opened an extensive
lumber yard in the city , and prospered finely for a few years, when
failing to make collections to meet his large obligations, he lost every
thing under the sheriff's hammer . He was elected a member of the
city council in 1855 , and was elected its president upon its organiza
tion .
The mayor resigning, Mr. Ammons became ex -officio mayor
until he ordered a new election to fill the vacancy . He was mayor of
Kansas City during the turbulent times of the border troubles, and did
much to prevent open rupture between the factions. He opposed
secession as a matter of policy , but never doubted the right of a State
to withdraw from the Union . He went to Chicago during the war , as
he was lame and not fit for military duty , and worked at his trade
several years , then returned to Missouri. His handiwork is seen
upon many of the large buildings of Kansas City , Fulton and Colum
bia , and of late years he has done only light work at his trade. He
has invented several useful articles, among which is a revolving book
rack . He has been married three times . The first time to Miss
Julia Franklin , of Howard county , June 30th , 1846. The second

time to Miss Isabel Kelsoe , of Decatur county , Iowa , on the 23d of
March , 1864. She died September 28th , 1865. The last time he
was married to Miss Mary E. Herndon , of Boone county . Mr. Am
mons has had an eventful life, few men having had the experiences
and seen the changes he has. He is still in possession of his faculties
and enjoys the confidence and respect of all .
WILLIAM THOMAS ANDERSON .
The parents of William T. Anderson , Benjamin and Sarah (West

lake) Anderson , are natives of Virginia , but for many years citizens
of Boone county , Missouri. The subject of this sketch was born in
Howard county , November 24 , 1842. He was educated at the pub
lic schools , completing his studies at the Missouri State University .
December 8 , 1868, he was married to Miss Bettie, daughter of John
F. and Sarah (Gordon ) Baker. By this union they have three chil
dren , Dorsey , Clifford and James P. Mr. Anderson followed the
grocery business from 1862 to 1869, under the firm name of Ander
son , Garth & Co. After quitting the mercantile business in 1869, he
followed the milling business, as one of the firm , owning and operat
ing the Columbia mills . At present, however , he is principally en
gaged in buying and selling grain . He has been very prominently
identified with the business interests of Columbia , and has held vari
ous municipal positions. He has been actively engaged in business
since early manhood , and has prospered in all his undertakings . He
owns a nice farm of 143 acres , and residence , one mile north of town ,
on the Mexico road. He has been a member of the Boone county
Democratic central committee for the last two years ; he is a Mason ,
also a member of the Methodist church . Mrs. Anderson is a member
of the same church . The reader will find additional mention of Mr.
Anderson's business relations elsewhere in this volume.
BENJAMIN M. ANDERSON
Is the son of Benjamin and Sarah (Westlake) Anderson , and was

born in Columbia , December 4 , 1854 . He went to school in Colum
bia until he was fourteen years old , when his father moved to Callaway
HISTORY OF BOONE COUNTY . 83;3
county and engaged in farming . Young Anderson worked on the farm

until he was eighteen , when he cameback to this city in 1872 and took
a clerkship in the drug store of Gilman & Dorsey , for whom he worked
four months, giving entire satisfaction . He then took another and
more profitable clerkship in the dry goods house of A. S. Campbell,

which position he held three years ; then in same capacity for Fyfer ,
Trimble & Laforce for some years . Feeling that he was competent to
carry on business for himself, he, in partnership with James A. Kim
brough , embarked in the stock business and in selling general mer
chandise at Stephens' store , in Callaway county . In 1880 he and his
partner came to Columbia and engaged in the livery business, which
they continue to the present time. Mr. Anderson is regarded as one
of the staunch business men of the city , and is courteous and gentle
manly to all , plainly showing his Virginia ancestry . He is a member
of the lodge of Knights of Pythias . The firm deal in horses, mules,
and cattle, and are reaping the reward of attention to business
andhonesty in
dealings that such gentlemen deserve. They do a
leading business, and their stables are a part of Boone's boasted
and necessary institutions.
CALVIN J. AUSTIN .
Calvin J. Austin , son of Ransom S. and Agnes (Gregory) Austin ,

was born in Halifax county , Virginia , October 1st , 1823. When six
years old , his parents removed to Pearson county , North Carolina .
For the next sixteen years they lived in this and the adjoining county
( Caswell), during which time Mr. Austin learned the tailor's trade at
a town called Milton , in Caswell county , serving an apprenticeship of
four years. In 1845 he came to Prairieville , Pike county , Missouri,
where he opened a tailor's shop under the firm name of Warmic &
Austin . Remained there until 1847 , when he enlisted in the Mexican
war, joining Company E , Third regiment, Missouri cavalry . Was
mustered into service at Independence , Missouri, June 7th , 1846 .
Was in the battle of Vera Cruz, March 16th , 1847 , and was mustered
out of service at Independence in December, 1847. Returning to
Prairieville , he resumed his former occupation , remaining in that
place one year. In the spring of 1850 he came to Columbia ,
Missouri, and established himself in business under the firm name of
Nutt & Austin . In the autumn of 1853 his partner died , and the
spring following he took W. H. Tellery as a partner. In 1856 he
sold his interest in the business , and , with John W.Watson , went
53
into the saw and grist mill business, four miles south of Ashland.
Followed this business for one year , when they sold out and removed
to St. Louis, where they rented a small farm of seventy - five acres ,
and engaged in raising vegetables for the city market . Ran this
business one year. Returned to Columbia and , in partnership with
Watson , opened a store of fancy groceries. They conducted this
business until 1863, when Mr. Austin sold his interest to his partner ,
and entered the mill of R. H. Smith , where he learned practical
milling. He commenced as a work - hand , receiving twenty -five
dollars per month , and worked up until he now holds the position of
head -miller of the Columbia Milling Company, which has a capacity
of one hundred and fifty barrels of flour per day . Mr. Austin was
married , May 3d , 1861, to Miss Parmelia , daughter of James and
Martha ( Hulen ) Duncan . They have two sons, Frank D. and
William A. Mr. Austin is a member of the Masonic and Good
Templar orders . He and his wife are both members of the Christian
church .
REV . BARNABAS BAKER .
The subject of this sketch is the son of John and Ann (Canfield )
Baker. He was born in Alfriston , county of Sussex , England, July
26th , 1817 , and was reared and educated in England, where he also
learned the trade of a shoemaker, serving an apprenticeship under his
brother , John Baker . He came to America in 1843, and first settled
at Jefferson City , Missouri, removing the year following to Callaway
county , where he remained until 1845 , when he returned to Jefferson
City . His next move was to Franklin county , where he taught school
for one year. The next two years were spent at St. Charles county.
In the spring of 1848 he moved to Boone county , and settled near
Ashland , where he was engaged to teach school. Spent one year in
that locality , removing in 1849 to Providence , Boone county , where
'he worked at his trade. In the spring of 1851 he moved to Columbia ,
and has lived there ever since . In 1850 he was engaged by the
American Tract Society , and has been with them ever since . He has
also acted as agent for the Boone County Bible Society since 1851,
and since that time he has circulated some seven or eight hundred
thousand Bibles and religious books. He also preaches when called
upon to do so . He is now president and treasurer of the executive
board of the Little Bonne Femme Association , which position he has
held for three years . Mr. Baker was married June 28th , 1838, at the
Baptist Church , in Lewis , county of Sussex , England , to Miss Leath ,
daughter of Henry and Jane A. (Hope ) Smith . They have had ive
children , two sons and three daughters : Mary A., Hattie (deceased ) ,
William K. (deceased ) , Elizabeth J. and Samuel H., who is one of
the firm of Trimble , Fyfer & Co. He was educated at the Baptist
College and State University . In 1866 he commenced clerking for
T. B. Gentry, and remained with him for two years. In December ,
1868, he went in with J. R. Garth & Co., and was in the grocery
business until January , 1880 , when he entered the store of Trimble ,
Fyfer & Co. as a clerk . In 1881 he became a partner in the business .
He is a member of the Baptist Church and a Good Templar . He is
in excellent business man , and has won the confidence and esteem of
the entire community . He has a bright future before him , and
deserves no less .
JOHN F. BAKER .
Was born in Norfolk , Virginia , August 1st , 1824. He is the son of

Sylvester and Elsey Baker , both natives of Virginia . When he was a
child only a few years old they inoved to the plain where the city of
Nashville now stands . They settled on eighty acres of land where the
city now stands. They remained there a short timeand then came to
St. Louis county and after a few months moved to Montgomery coun
ty , Mo., and settled on the Loutre and built a mill a quarter of a mile
below the plain where Capt. Callaway was killed by the Indians at the
junction of Dry Fork and Loutre . In connection with the mill Mr.
Baker had a cotton gin and inbaling the lint was the cause of his death ,
which occurred about five or six years after he settled in Montgomery
county. He was judge of the county court at the time of his death .
John F. was at that timeabout nine years old . Mrs. Baker lived about
twenty years after the death of her husband ; she died at Danville ,
Montgomery county , about 1850, at the age of eighty -one years .
They were both members of the Methodist church . John F. Baker
lived in Mongomery county about ten years after the death of his
father . In 1845 he came to Columbia and was engaged as a salesman
in the employ of Wm . H. Bass. In 1847 and 1848 he was deputy
sheriff under Chas . C. Maupin . He was married in 1848 to Miss
Sarah Ann Gordon , daughter of George M. Gordon , of Columbia .
By this union there were four children - James M., Bettie , Odon and
Sallie . Odon died in infancy , all the others live in Columbia. James
M. is a member of the Columbia Milling Co. Bettie is the wife of
·Wm . T. Anderson . Mrs. Baker died in 1861 and is buried at Colum
bia . Mr. Baker was in mercantile business from 1848 until the break
ing out of the war . He was sutler of the 9th Missouri cavalry dur
ing the war . In 1865 he was elected sheriff of Boone county and held
the office two years. He then went to St. Louis and lived there seven
years. He sold goods on the road and collected money for several
firms throughout the South and West during that time. In 1875 he
came back to Columbia , where he has since resided . He was a mem
ber and chairman of the board of trustees of Columbia for several
.years . He is now street commissioner . Mr. Baker is now working
up a new enterprise in the way of an establishment for canning fruits,
vegetables, etc. He has only put up comparatively small quantities,
but has been very successful so far . His intention is to organize a
stock company and open the business on a large scale . He uses the
process employed by the Oneida community of New York .
J. W. BANKS, M. D.
Dr. J. W. Banks is a native of Tennessee, having been born in Sum

ner county of that State , September 26th , 1835. In 1836 his father
removed to Missouri, settling at Tebo Grove, Lafayette county , where
the subject of this sketch was reared . He attended Dr. Yantis ’ Insti
tute , at Brownsville, Saline county , Missouri, and the State University ,
graduating in 1855. He then read medicine under Dr. Hudson , of
Kentucky, and graduated as M. D. from Jefferson Medical College ,
Philadelphia , in 1857. He then returned to Missouri and located in
Lafayette county , where he practiced his profession until 1861, when
he returned to Tennessee and enlisted in the Confederate army as
surgeon of the 2d Tennessee regiment, with which he remained until
the close of the war. He was at Shiloh, Murfreesborough , Chick
amauga , Mission Ridge, Resaca , Dallas , New Hope, Kenesaw , At
lanta , Jonesboro , Franklin , Nashville , Bentonville and many other
engagements of less note. He removed the body of Gen. Polk from
the battlefield at Kenesaw Mountains, and surrendered with Gen. Joe
Johnston . At the close of the war he went to Texas, where he prac
ticed medicine until 1869, when he returned to Missouri , and in 1872
came to Columbia , where he has remained ever since in the active dis
charge of his professional duties . Dr. Banks was married in 1866 to
Sallie Luckett, of Pettis county , a native of Kentucky and a niece of
Col. McGoffin , a distinguished Confederate officer. They have five
children , all living . Their names are William M., John S., Anna Mc
Goffin , Luther L.and Hiram Franklin . Mrs. Banks is a member of
the Presbyterian church .
WILLIAM HAYDEN BASS .
The subject of this sketch is a son of Eli E.and Margaret M. ( John

son ) Bass, and was born January 18th , 1836 , in Boone county on
what is now known as the Bass homestead . He received his education
at the State University and chose farming and stock raising as his oc
cupation . He deals largely in shorthorn cattle and mules , shipping
many mules to Mississippi and Louisiana. He was the originator of
the Ashland stock sales, which take place the first Saturday in every
month , sales running from $ 1,750 to $ 6,000. He has been a director
of the Boone county agricultural and mechanical association for the
past ten years, and during the years of 1880 and 1881 he was its pres
ident. He is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen .
He was married September 11th , 1858 , to Miss Irene, daughter of
Wm . and Mary ( Trueman ) Hickman . By this union they have eight
children , seven boys and one girl, all living . In May , 1882, he
moved into Columbia to have better educational facilities for his
children . His eldest son , Everett E., will graduate from the Uni
versity in 1883. He has a fine residence in a pleasant location on
Broadway, east end . Mr. Bass is one of Boone's most thrifty,
enterprising business men , and takes an interest in whatever will
advance her material welfare .
J. & V. BARTH .
J. & V. Barth , the well-known proprietors of the Star clothing

houses of Columbia and Mexico , Missouri, are brothers. They were
born in Rhenish Prussia . Victor , the youngest of the firm , was
born January 4th , 1850, and was educated both in German and
Hebrew . When fifteen years old he left his native land for America ,
landing first in Philadelphia . From that city he came to Columbia
in 1866. He engaged in clerking for a while, then peddled , selling
general merchandise from house to house, travelling on horseback .
In the spring of 1868, in company with his brother Joseph , opened
the Star clothing house , on Broadway , where he has remained ever
since. Victor Barth was married August 23d , 1876 , to Miss Nettie
Barth , daughter of Moses Barth , of Rocheport. They have one
child , Irvin Victor, born November , 1877. Mr. Barth is a Royal
Arch Mason , a K. of P., and a member of A. O. U. W. In April,
1880 , the Barth Brothers opened a branch store at Mexico , Missouri.
Joseph Barth has charge of this establishment. They carry a very
large stock of ready-made clothing, and are doing a good business .

Victor Barth has in his employment a corps of competent and cour
teous salesmen , among whom is Mr. Clyde Cunningham , who has
been with him for seven years . He has also two of his younger
brothers, Solomon and Moses .
WM . W. BATTERTON .
William Wallace Batterton was born in Boone county , August 11th ,

1833. He is the son of Lemuel and Mary (Lynch ) Batterton , and
his father was one of the first settlers of Boone county , coming here
from Kentucky in 1820. Mr. Batterton received his education in the
common schools of Boone county and at the University . After leav
ing school he followed teaching for about seven years , farming at inter
vals . In 1859 Mr. Batterton was elected School Commissioner , being
the first elected to that office in this county . He was removed from
office in 1861 because of his refusal to take the “ Gamble oath . " In
1867 he was again elected school commissioner , and served one

term . In the fall of 1874 , he was elected county clerk of Boone
county ; he was re -elected in 1878. His record while in office is an
excellent one, and one of which he may well be proud .
During the civil war Mr. Batterton's sympathies were more or less
with the Confederates . He was for a time, during the first year of
the struggle, in McKinney's company of the Missouri State Guards .

He returned home upon the expiration of his term in the State ser
vice , and took no further active part in the war of his own free will.
At the “ Gosline Lane fight," in this county , in September , 1864,
( see account elsewhere ) Mr. Batterton was badly wounded . He had
been pressed into the service by the Federals to drive his team from
Sturgeon to Rocheport, and was shot down by one of Todd's bush
whackers when the attack began . Mr. B.'s wound was through the
right shoulder , and was made by a bullet from a heavy dragoon re
volver . His life was spared only by the intervention of John Thrail
kill, who commanded one company of the guerrillas on this occasion .
August 31st, 1859, Mr. Batterton married Miss Mary Winn , of
this county . Their union has been blessed with twelve children ,
nine of whom are still living. Mr. B. is a member of the Baptist
Church . He is also a member of the following secret orders : Ma
sonic — Blue Lodge and Chapter ; Odd Fellows — Subordinate and
Encampment ; Knights of Pythias and Ancient Order of United
Workmen .
WILLIAM J. BABB .
The father of the subject of this sketch , Rev. R. F. Babb , was a

prominent Baptist minister of South Carolina, of which State he was
a native, born October 26th , 1816 . He married Miss Virginia A.
Cooper, also a native of the Palmetto State , born October 8th , 1822 .
In December, 1858 , Rev. R. F. Babb , with his wife and six children ,
removed from Abbeville district, S. C., to Audrain county , Mo. From
thence he cameto Boone ; then back to Audrian , and finally , in 1872,
located in Columbia . His children consisted of five sons and one
daughter, viz . : Joseph C. Babb (since deceased ) , Wm . J. Babh ,
James F. Babb ( since deceased ) , Henry B. Babb , Jerry G. Babb , and
Eugie P. Babb.
Wm . J. Babb , the second son named above, and the subject of this
sketch , was born in Laurens district, S. C., October 28th , 1846. He
was reared on a farm , and up to the age of twenty -one his education
was superintended by his father, who was a successful and prominent
teacher for more than twenty years . In the year 1869, and from that
date until the year 1873 , Mr. Babb was an irregular attendant at the
Missouri University . He engaged in teaching, and when not em
ployed in the school- room was to be found in the halls of the Univer
sity and industriously 'engaged in the acquirement of those attain
ments in which he afterward became proficient and noted . In 1873
he graduated in the academic course, and in June , 1874 , from the
normal department. In 1873–4 he taught in the public schools of
Columbia . In 1875–6 he attended the law school of the University ,
and in the latter year graduated as the valedictorian of the Centennial
class. In the spring of the same year he was admitted to the bar .
In 1876–7 he continued teaching in Columbia .
At the November election , 1876 , Mr. Balb was elected by a large
majority to the position of public administrator of Boone county .
The same efficiency and competency which had signalized his course
as a teacher marked his conduct as an official, and so well were the
people satisfied with his administration that in November, 1880 , he
was re - elected for another term of four years . He is still an incum
bent of the office , which he fills to the universal satisfaction of the
people. In 1878 he was elected a justice of the peace , but resigned
the position in the spring of 1882, in order that he might have more
time for attending to the practice of his profession and to devote to
the duties of his office .
July 29th , 1879 , Mr. Babb married Miss Minnie E. Clough , the
accomplished daughter of Albert W. and Isabella Clough . Mrs. Babb
graduated from Stephens College in the class of 1879, about one
month before her marriage. They have one child , Albert F., born
June 16th , 1880. Mr. and Mrs. Babb are members of the Baptist
Church , Mr. B. dating his membership from December , 1865. At
present he is the moderator of the Little Bonne Femme Association ,
which is composed of the Baptist churches of Audrain , Callaway and
Boone counties. This position he has held for three years past, hay
ing been clerk of said body three years prior to his election as its
presiding officer . Honest, upright , intelligent and capable , with a
good record behind him and a bright future before him , no man has
more friends in Boone county , or should be better content with his
life than the gentleman whose career is here imperfectly sketched .
LEANDER G. BIGGS.
Mr. Biggs was born in Springfield , Missouri, June 4th , 1851. His
parents were Seton T. and Louisa C. Biggs, the father a native of
Tennessee, born March 9th , 1827, and the mother of North Carolina .
They both came to Missouri when very small , and were married near
Springfield , Greene county , April 13th , 1848. They have five children ,
four of whom survive at this writing. They continued to live in
Greene county till 1861, when they moved to Jerseyville , Illinois .
The senior Biggs was a carriage -maker by trade . His health so failed
that, in 1877, he went to Brownsville , Mo., to try the effects of the
Sweet Springs water . He died while at the springs, and lies buried
at Brownsville. He died August 30th , 1877. After the death of her
husband , Mrs. Biggs bought a farm three miles east of the springs ,
where she still resides with the three youngest children . Mary Frances
and Finis E. are married . Sylvester was the name of the son who
died at Palmyra , Mo. L. G. Biggs, the immediate subject of this
sketch , learned his trade as carriage painter at Jerseyville , Ill., subse
quently going to St. Louis, where he learned fancy sign-writing. He
was married November 21st, 1872, to Miss Lizzie E. Jones, of Gil
lespie , Ill., and a daughter of David M.and Lucinda Jones, the former
still living at Gillespie, the latter dead . Mr. and Mrs. Biggs have
one son and one daughter , named , respectively , Leon E. and Linnie
E. For two years Mr. B. followed portrait painting. He came to
Columbia , this county , on the first train that came in after the “ great
strike ” of 1877 , and has made his home here ever since . He is cer
tainly one of the best sign writers and ornamental painters in the
State , and follows that vocation exclusively . He and wite are both
members of the Methodist church , and he also belongs to the A. O.
U. W. and Knights of Pythias. His education was chiefly received
at Jerseyville , Illinois.
JAMES SHANNON BLACKWELL , A. M., PH . D.
Prof. Blackwell is now , and has been for four years, connected
with the University in the capacity of teacher of “ Hebrew and Semitic
Literature and of Modern Languages." He is a native of Henderson
county , Kentucky, and was born November 30th , 1844. His parents ,
James J. and Mary ( Jeffress ) Blackwell, were natives of Virginia, and
the ancestry of Prof. B. have been to the manner born ” in the Old
Dominion for 200 years. Excepting the years of his collegiate course
as a student, he lived in Kentucky till he came here to take his
present position in the University . He graduated at Hanover College ,
Indiana, in 1868, with the degree of A. B. ; in 1871 he took the
degree of A. M., and in '76 that of Ph . D. He was made president
of Ghent College, Ghent, Kentucky, in 1868 , and held that position
altogether for four years. Purchasing an interest in Forrest
Academy, a private school at Anchorage, Kentucky, he remained
there three years. Subsequently he was four years in the Kentucky
Military Institute at Frankfort, having been placed in that institution
by the appointment of the Governor, with the commission of
major . That was the position he quit when he took his present
chair in the Missouri University . As a linguist, Prof. Blackwell is a
study to his friends, and even his intimates. scarcely comprehend him ,
so great is his gift of acquiring language. He has spoken German
froin childhood, and also speaks fluently French , Spanish and Italian ,
besides being well versed in a number of other languages. On one oc
casion , in a paper read before the American Philological Association at
Cleveland , Ohio , he made quotations from upwards of twenty different
languages. He took a two -years ' course of Chinese from a native
master, and has also studied the Egyptian and Assyrian , and is con
stantly adding to his linguistic stock by beginning the study of new
ones , his latest being Arabic, which he began September 11th , 1882 .
His method of acquiring language is a modification (his own ) of what
is known as the Hamiltonian system . He has a Bible in which
the text is Hebrew , with a translation into Chaldee , and commentaries
in Rabbinic . Prof. Blackwell was married July 8 , 1870 , to Miss
Mary E., daughter of Milton Smith , of Ghent, Kentucky. She was.

a native of that State , and a niece of ex -Gov. Henry S. Lane, an
U. S. Senator from Indiana. She died September 6 , 1881, having
borne five children , two only of whom — Laura Cherry and Paul
Preston — are living. Prof. B. is a member of the Presbyterian
church , and was an elder therein while at Anchorage , Kentucky. He
is the author of quite a number of articles on language and literature ,
and has written several small books and pamphlets, including “ Views
on the Study of Language ,” and “ Some Observations on the Hebrew
Grammar of Dr. Alexander Meyrowitz .” Since the days of the
- Learned Blacksınith ,” few men have developed more genius in ,
and love for, the study of language than the subject of this sketch ;
and perhaps when he has attained the age at which Elibu Burritt died ,
he may be the peer even of that greatest of the great masters of
language.
JAMES BOWLING , SR .
The subject of this sketch is one among the oldest citizens of Boone
county . He is a native of Amherst county , Virginia , where he was
born August 7th , 1797. He was educated at the public schools of his.
native county . In 1828 , at the age of thirty -one, he left Virginia ,
going to what is now known as West Virginia , where he stayed four
years. In 1832 he came to Missouri, stopping for a while in Calla
way county . He next came to Boone county , and bought a farm in
the forks of Cedar, where he lived from 1833 to 1855 , when he built
the house now occupied by P. H. Robnett , and in which he lived till
1866. He has followed farming all his life , and his labors have ever
proved successful. He has by industry , prudence and economy
accumulated a large amount of property , When quite a young man ,
he took charge of his father's plantation , one among the largest and
most productive in the country . He had control of this property for
ten years, from 1818 to 1828. He was married , November 11th ,
1819 , to Miss Margaret, daughter of James and Mildred (Monday )
Davis. Eight children were born of this marriage , three sons and five
daughters , four of whom — two of each sex — are now living . Martha
A., Parmelia J. and Sallie are dead . Charles L. died in Price's army.
The surviving members of the family are : Mildred , who first married
Abraham Gillaspie , of Kentucky, and, being left a widow , afterwards
married Wiley Roy, of Carroll county , Missouri. James D., who
married Martha McAllister , of Columbia ; and Mary F., widow of the
late J. L. Matthews, of Columbia , and Roderick , now of Texas. Mr.
Bowling's father was born in St. Mary's county , Maryland , in 1752,

and died in Amherst county , Virginia , in 1832. He was the father
of eight children , three sons and five daughters . His wife was
Laticia Gillaspie . She died in 1850 , and is buried in Amherst
county, Virginia .
JAMES MONROE BOSWELL .
James M. Boswell, a well known and popular business man of

Columbia , was born in Bedford county , Virginia , February 14th ,
1842. He is the son of William H. H. and Elizabeth A. (Compton ),
Boswell. He attended school at Liberty , Virginia , commencing in
1854 and ending in 1857. He came to Boone county , Missouri, in
the fall of 1858 , and attended school at New Prospect Academy until
the breaking out of the war , in 1861. He enlisted in Company B , of
Callaway county , commanded by Maj. J. M. Robinson , being a
portion of the elder Gen. John B. Clark's regiment. Was in the bat
tles of Wilson Creek , Drywood , Lexington, and Moore's Mill. Went
to Ham's Prairie , Callaway county , Missouri, and sold goods for a
short time, but owing to the excitement and troubles growing out of
the war, had to quit the business . He cameto Columbia , and was en
gaged to teach the public schools. He followed teaching for fifteen
months, when he was employed as a salesman in the store of Kirkbride
& Co., Columbia , Mo. Stayed with this firm until 1868, when he went
in business with James I. Hickman , under the firm name of Hickman
& Boswell, dealers in family groceries . They sold out their business
iu 1870 to Allen , Maupin & Co. Was elected constable of Columbia
township , and served for two years and four months . After the
expiration of his term as constable , he went into the family grocery
business under the firın name of Smith & Boswell. He sold out this.
business in 1874 , and engaged as salesman with Loeb , Meyer & Co.,
dry goods and clothing. He stayed with this firm for four years .
Quitting their store , he engaged once more in the family grocery
business, this time by himself. Sold out the business, August 15th ,
1881, to Hume & Brothers . Mr. Boswell owns considerable real
estate in Columbia , also an excellent farm of sixty acres . He is a
member of the Masonic order , also of the United Workmen . He
was married , November 14th , 1872 , to Miss Sarah J., daughter of
Edward and Kissih ( Fortney ) Easley . They have two sons and two
daughters : Annie W., William E., Gertrude L. and James M. Mr.
i In the Confederate service .

and Mrs Boswell are both members of the Christian church . He has
been an auctioneer for years, and has sold a great deal of property .
JOSHUA H. BRADY.
Joshua H. Brady, son of William and Catherine Brady , was born in

Washington county , Maryland, August 5th , 1837. He was educated
at a neighboring town called Hancock , and learned the miller's trade
of his father , serving an apprenticeship of eight years. In 1861 he
went to work for Samuel Bowles , of Washington county , Maryland,
and stayed with him two years. Hewas next employed by William H.
Eads, of Georgetown , District of Columbia , whose mill had a capacity
of one hundred and fifty barrels a day . He stayed with Eads a year
and a half. In 1864 he was engaged to run a mill in Morgan county ,
Virginia , at a point called Sir John's Run . Remained in this position
for four years, then went to Sleepy Creek , same county , where he
stayed six months, and from there to Frederick county , Maryland ,
where he entered the Red Spring Mills owned by J. M. Bushy, where he
remained two years. The mill was sold to E. Zimmerman and Mr.
Brady remained with him seven years . He then rented themill at
Middletown Valley , in Frederick county , Maryland , and remained in
charge of this mill until the autumn of 1881, when he cameto Colum
bia , Missouri, July 10th , 1882, and went to work for the Columbia
Milling Company. He is a practical miller; thoroughly acquainted
with every department of the business. In 1864 he was drafted into
the Federal army, but by paying three hundred dollars he was ex

cused from serving . He was married , August 1st, 1865 , to
Hester Ann Wharton, daughter of Samuel Whartou , of Sir John's
Run , West Virginia . They have six children , three of each sex :
Aquila C., born February 19th , 1869 ; Katie R., born August 16th ,
1871 ; George William , born March 30th , 1873 ; Annie O., born June
11th , 1875 ;-Charles J., born November 25th , 1877 ; Hester M., born
July 4th , 1880. They are all living.
GEORGE SMITH BRYANT, A. M.,
President of Christian Female College, Columbia , is a native of Jessa

mine county , Kentucky, born April 2d , 1841. His parents, Dr. John
and Martha Ann Bryant , with their family immigrated to Jackson coun
ty , Missouri, in 1850 , and settled in Independence , where they yet re
side. The subject of our sketch received his primary education in the
Independence High School, M. W. Miller, now in charge of Webster
school in St. Louis , then being its principal. After being prepared
forcollege by this institution of learning , Mr. Bryantwent to Bethany
College , Virginia , then under the management of Rev. Alexander
Campbell, its president. At the expiration of two years, Mr. Bryant
graduated withhonor, and then returned and entered the Indepen
dence High School as assistant to M. W. Miller . Mr. Miller soon
thereafter resigned , and Mr. Bryant succeeded him , and successfuly
managed the school for ten years. During that time he graduated a
large number of pupils, some of whom now fill the principal commer
cial, educational and political positions of the State. On the 29th day
of August, 1871, Mr. Bryant married Miss Margaret Frances Fergu
son , daughter of James and Mary Ferguson, of Boone county , Mo.
After his marriage he accepted a professorship in the Christian Female
College under the presidency of Joseph K. Rogers, and held the posi
tion for about five years . Owing to the failure of Mr. Rogers' health ,
in 1877, he resigned the presidency and recommended Professor
Bryant to the board of trustees, who unanimously elected him Mr.
Rogers' successor, which position he has satisfactorily filled to the
present day, the last session of the school having been one of its
most prosperous .
J. R. CAMPBELL .
James Reyburn Campbell was born in Mexico , Mo., October 1st ,

1846. He is a son of John and Sallie ( Turner ) Campbell. His
father was a native of Kentucky and came to Missouri when a boy.
He died in December , 1870 , in Audrain county . Mrs. Campbell is a
native of Boone county ; she is still alive . Mr. Campbell was a farmer .
J. R. Campbell, the subject hereof, was reared on a farm and received
a common school education . In the fall of 1862, when but sixteen
years of age , he went South and took service in the Confederate army
under Gen. Price . His first enlistment was in Company A , of the
1st Missouri brigade ( afterwards Company B ) . During his term of

service Mr. Campbell participated in the second fight at Carthage, in
Taylor's engagements with and defeat of Gen. Banks in Louisiana ,
and in Price's last raid . He was under Gen. Price all of his term .
The hardest battles in which he was engaged were Big Blue, Jackson
county, and ... Big Prairie , ” near the Arkansas line, both on Price's
raid into Missouri. Upon first enlisting Mr. Campbell was in the
cavalry , but was afterwards transferred to the infantry . He did a
great deal of post duty in Arkansas and Louisiana , guarding the forts
at Shreveport and at other points on Red river . He surrendered
with the main body of Gen. Price's army at Shreveport in the spring
of 1865 , and returned home June 25th , of that year, and began life
without a dollar .
Soon after coming home Mr. Campbell engaged with the Wilcox
& Gibbs Sewing Machine Company, of St. Louis, for which he
worked about eighteen months , when he entered the service of the
Singer company, and was given their agency for four counties . This
territory he has held ever since . In November , 1875 , he came to
Columbia , where he has since resided . In addition to his sewing
machine house , Mr. Campbell also conducts a first- class confectionery
store , and since January , 1882, has owned a one-third interest in the
large grocery and provision house of Bruce, Moberly & Co.
He was married December 12th , 1868 , to Miss Amelia Turner , a
native of Audrain county, and daughter of John Turner , Esq . Mr.
and Mrs. Campbell are the parents of three children – Mary Pearl,
Eula Gertrude and Laura Belle . Mr. and Mrs. C.are both members
of the Baptist church , and Mr. C. belongs to the United Workmen
and Knights of Honor .
MR . AND MRS . O. A. CARR .
The subjects of this sketch are natives of Kentucky, the former

having been born in Lewis county , February 5th , 1845, the latter in
Stanford , Lincoln couniy , September 8th , 1847. Mr. Carr's pater
nal grandparents, Daniel Carr and Richard Clary , were sturdy pioneer
farmers of their respective counties . Daniel Carr lived sixty - four
years of his married life in one home in Lewis county , near which
began the wedded lives of William Carr and Elizabeth Clary , to whom
were born eight children , the fifth bearing the name of Oliver Ander
son Carr . In early youth Oliver attended school of winters at the
rude log school-house of the neighborhood , the term usually lasting
but three months in the year . The elder Carr was not satisfied with
the limited facilities thus afforded his children , as he had early resolved
to give them as good an education as his means would afford . For
this reason he abandoned his farm and removed to May's Lick , Mason
county , where , from the age of eleven to sixteen , Oliver attended the
academy. After five years ' hard study , the subject of this sketch had
won the esteem and confidence of all who knew him , and when it was
known that he wished to further prosecute his studies at college , and
that his means were limited , the young student did not lack for assist
ance , which came without personal solicitation . He was thus enabled
to attend the Kentucky University , then situated at Harrodsburg ,

Kentucky. While a student of this institution , the university build .
ing was burned and the school was removed to Lexington , where Mr.
Carr graduated in 1867, at the age of twenty -two . He was the
youngest graduate of the university at that time and the youngest of

the class, being the first to receive the degree of A. B. after the
removal of the university to Lexington . His labors in the gospel
began at the age of nineteen , when he travelled and preached during
the summer months in Northeastern Kentucky - one season in com
pany with Eld . J. W. Mountjoy- preaching in school-houses and
forest groves to multitudes who assembled to hear the gospel. Five
hundred people acknowledged the Savior under his preaching, and
six churches were established by him , one within two miles of his
birth place . In the midst of these labors there was a call for mis
sionaries , and Elder Carr was selected for the Australia mission .
Previous to commencing his long journey , he was married in the
Christian church at Lancaster, Kentucky, to Miss Mattie Myers ,
March 26th , 1868. Immediately after their marriage they departed
for Melbourne, Australia . They sailed from New York to Liverpool,
and after remaining three weeks in the British Isles , left Liverpool in
a sailing vessel, and after a voyage of one hundred and four days
landed safely at Melbourne. Mr. Carr at once began his labors in
that city . He established a church , and used the press and pulpit
continuously during the period of his labors in that country . In
addition to preaching, he taught a class of young men who were pre
paring for the ministry . Excessive toil and the enervating influence
of the climate told seriously upon his health , and he was advised to
visit Tasmania , two hundred miles south of Australia for the benefit
of the climate. Soon after landing at Hobart he was urged to preach
and did so , establishing a church of one hundred and twenty members .
After one year's labor at Hobart they sailed for home by way of
Ceylon , the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, visiting Egypt and the Holy
Land , stopping at Naples and Rome, passing through the Mount Cenis
tunnel to Paris and Versailles , thence to Southampton , and after
three weeks' stay in England sailed for New York , and thence over
land by way of Niagara Falls to Maysville , Kentucky, where Mr.
Carr's parents were living , landing at home in August , 1873. After
brief rest Eld . Carr resumed his labors in Kentucky , travelling
extensively in the interest of Sunday-schools. In 1874 he responded
to a call from a St. Louis church for a specified time, at the expira
tion of which time he and Mrs. Carr came to Fulton , Missouri, the
former to preach and the latter to take charge of Floral Hill College.
It was thought best to unite this institution with Christian College ,
Columbia , Missouri, which union was consummated in 1878. Mr.
Carr has devoted his time to evangelical labors in Missouri, except
while occupying the pulpit of Eld . L. B. Wilkes , at Columbia , during
the illness of the latter. Mr. Carr's labors in the last few years have
been directed towards securing church coöperation in promulgating
the gospel, and to this end he has travelled , preached and written
continuously since coming to Missouri. During the last year of his
labors in this State he has established a church at Laddonia , Audrain
county , and another at Ashland, in Boone county , where they have
recently completed an excellent church edifice . Mrs. 0. A. Carr,
the earnest, zealous partner of Elder Carr in all his missionary and
evangelical labors , is the youngest daughter of Henry and Mary (Bur
dette ) Myers, and was born at Stanford , Lincoln county , Kentucky,
September 6th , 1847. Her father was of German origin , her mother
of English extraction . Mrs. Carr was a pupil of Daughter's College,
Harrodsburg , Kentucky, for six years, under the management of
President John A. Williams, afterwards president of Christian College ,
Columbia , Missouri. Having finished the junior course in Daughter’s.
College she was sent to St. Catherine de Sienna, Washington county ,
Kentucky, where she graduated with the highest honors of her class .
The following year, 1865 , she returned to Daughter's College and
graduated there in 1866 with high honors . Soon after leaving college
she was called to the principalship of Franklin College , Lancaster ,
Kentucky. After nearly two years' prosperous labor she resigned
and was married , March 26th , 1868 , to Mr. 0. A. Carr , since which
time her history has been thoroughly identified with his in their labors
for the cause of Christ both in this country and in foreign lands.
During the three years spent in Australia , Mrs. Carr had charge of a
college for young ladies, and worked with her husband in his church
relations until the failure of her health , when they removed to Tas
mania , where she continued her labors in the church and schoolwhich
they organized at that place . After their return to America she was
appointed associate principal of Hamilton College, Lexington , Ken
tucky. She did not remain long with this institution , however, as
the work became excessive after the resignation of the principal.
Consequently she resigned and joined her husband, who had preceded
her to St. Louis, having taken charge of the First Christian church of
-
-
that city . In 1876 she assumed the management of Floral Hill Col
lege, Fulton, Missouri, where she remained until that institution was
consolidated with Christian Female College , Columbia, Missouri.
She then came to Columbia as associate principal of Christian Col
lege. In this capacity she labored for one year, at the expiration of
which time she received , in 1879, the appointment of lady principal
of the Missouri State University , which position she now holds. She
also has control of the work department, established for the benefit
of the young lady pupils of the University . Besides ber weekly labors
in the church and in the school, she has contributed to religious peri
odicals , and has delivered frequent lectures in the interest of literary
and religious culture .
CAPT . H. N. COOK .
Henry Nixdorff Cook was born at Palmyra , Marion county ,Missouri,

October 30 , 1838. He was educated in the common schools , and at
St. Paul's College. In 1851 he came to Columbia , and has ever since
been a resident of Boone county . His first occupation in Columbia
was that of jeweler and watchmaker .
Upon the breaking out of the civil war Captain Cook announced him
self an unconditional Union man , and ready to fight for his principles.
April 22 , 1862, he received a commission as captain of company F ,
9th Cavalry, M. S. M. (Guitar's regiment ), and in this capacity
served for three years. During his term of service Captain Cook par
ticipated in the engagement at Moore's Mill , Kirksville, Independence ,
and in the other leading battles of General Price's last raid into Mis
souri, besides innumerable fights and skirmishes with Confederate guer
rillas and bushwhackers. In one engagement with Jim Carter's band
in this county, in the winter of 1865 , he killed four of the guerrillas
and effectually broke up the band . In April, 1865,he received a com
mission as captain of the “ Boone County Company ” of militia , and
served some months. He received the surrender of the notorious
Jim Jackson and his band in the spring of 1865, and gave them writ
ten paroles. Jackson was afterwards killed by the militia with his
parole on his person . The captain passed through all the dangers of
the war without a scratch .
In the fall of 1868 Captain Cook was appointed county clerk of
Boone county , to which office he was elected in 1870 as a Republican ,
although the county was Democratic at the time. He served as
county clerk till January 1, 1875. In June , 1881, he was appointed
postmaster of Columbia , and is still in that position .
54
In March , 1859 , Captain Cook married Miss Hettie Scott, of Arrow

Rock , Saline county . They are parents of two children , a son and
daughter, both of whom have reached maturity . Henry Guitar , the
son , is deputy postmaster , and Mary , the daughter is now Mrs. Wage,
of Columbia .
HENRY CRUMBAUGH .
Henry Crumbaugh, a prominent business man of Columbia , and one

of the pioneer settlers of the place , was born in Fayette county, Ken
tucky, May 16 , 1814 . He is the son of John and Mary ( Snyder )
Crumbaugh ; he was raised and educated in his native county , and
learned the saddler and harness -maker's trade at Lexington , serving
an apprenticeship of five years . After completing his trade he
came to Columbia , Missouri, and located , opening a shop in the spring
of 1838. His first shop was situated on Broadway,where the Exchange
Bank now stands. He landed in Columbia without money , possessing
only his trade and a laudable resolution to win , which , coupled with
industry , prudence , and economy, soon laid the foundation for a suc
cessful business . His property was not rapidly accumulated , but
surely and steadily , until now in his old age he finds himself the pos
sessor of a handsome estate , earned by the labor of his own hands.
For many years he served as towu trustee ; he was also city collector
for fifteen or sixteen years . He was married April 30 , 1840, to Doro
thy A., daughter of Col. Richard Gentry . They had three children
one son and two daughters . Mary A. married J. V. C. Karnes , a
prominent lawyer of Kansas City ; Doppthy A. married J. H. Lips
comb , also a lawyer of Kansas City ; Luther H. married a daughter
of Major Harbinson , a prominent lawyer of Southwest Missouri .
Mrs. Crumbaugh was born March 13 , 1816 , and died March 9 , 1854 .
On the 13th of December , 1855 , he was married to Mary C. Reynolds,
of Columbia , Missouri. They have three children — James E., city
attorney of Columbia , and a promising young lawyer, being a gradu
ate of the literary and law departments of the Missouri State Univer
sity ; Roberta Lee — named in honor of Gen. Robert E. Lee - and
Mary C. In 1833 Mr. Crumbaugh joined the Presbyterian church at
Lexington , Kentucky, under the preaching of Dr. Hall ; he was elected
an elder of his church in September , 1844. His motto through life has
been , “ Every day something learned ; every day something done."
WALLACE JACKSON DAVIS .
Wallace J. Davis, editor and proprietor of the Boone County Sen

tinel, is a native of this county , having been born in Perche township ,

April 14 , 1850. He is the younger son of Linnæus and Nancy T.
(Weaver ) Davis. His father was a native of New York , but emi
grated in early youth to Missouri, where he was principally raised and
educated . Mrs. Davis is a native of Alabama. The subject of this
sketch was reared and educated in Boone county . At the age of
twenty he entered the office of the Democratic Banner , published at
Fayette, Missouri, by James H. Robinson . He remained with Mr.
Robinson over a year. His next engagement was with the Columbia
Herald . He afterwards worked on the Columbia Statesman , Cedar
City Clarion , and all the papers published at Fulton , Missouri, hav
ing served as foreman of the Fairplay and the Mail of that city . In
1874 he worked on the Jefferson City Tribune. The year following
he was engaged on the Daily Times , and the Dispatch , then under
themanagement of Stilson Hutchins. In June, 1876 , he established
the Centralia · Sentinel , a Democratic paper , which he soon
afterwards removed to Columbia , changing the name to Boone
County Sentinel . The first number of the new edition Ivas
dated February 4 , 1877. The Sentinel has been a fearless ,
outspoken paper , and has carried the Democratic banner to the
front in every political campaign since the day it was started .
it had a preference it did not hesitate to say so . If it believed an
aspirant for office unworthy of the support of the party , it proclaimed
the fact regardless of consequences . F.F. Davis, brother of Wallace
J. Davis, is associated with him in the management of the Sentinel.
The subject of this sketch was married May 24 , 1880 , to Miss Alice ,
daughter of Charles Ustick , of Dover, Lafayette county , Missouri.
They have one son , Kenneth Forrest, born December 5 , 1881. Mr.
Davis and wife are members of the Methodist Church South . His
brother, F. F. Davis , was born July 31 , 1842. He is also a member
of the Methodist church . The oldest brother , Leander B. Davis , was
killed in the Confederate service .
PROF . CONRAD DIEHL .
Prof. Conrad Diehl was born near Landau , Germany, July 16 ,

1842. His father , Conrad L., was a notary and a leader in the revo
lution of 1848 , for which he forfeited his estate and was sentenced to
death . He fled to America and settled in St. Clair county , Illinois.
Young Conrad was educated principally at Oakfield , Franklin county ,
Missouri. At the age of seventeen his father sent him to Munich ,
852 HISTORY OF BOOŅE COUNTY .
Germany, to complete his artistic education . He studied for five

years under the most celebrated artists of that city , among whom
were Kaulbach and Foltz . It was while attending the art school at
Munich that Prof. Diehl produced his celebrated picture , “ Hamlet ,”
representing the Prince of Denmark in one of his most dramatic atti
tudes . This picture at once established his reputation as an artist of
very high order. He brought this picture with him to America , and
presented it to the Chicago Art Association . It was consumed in the
great fire of 1871. Prof. Diehl attended the Paris Exposition in 1867,
and while there painted another fine picture , “ Macbeth ,” which is
now in an art collection in St. Louis . In 1871 he went to St. Louis
and taught art in the public schools until 1877. While a teacher in
that city he introduced a new mode of instruction which became very
popular , but was finally driven out by ignorant prejudice . He has
since reduced this system to writing, and it is now ready for the
press. He thinks his book will revolutionize the study of art in this
country . Hewas at one time president of the Chicago Academy of
Design. In 1879 he succeeded Gen. Bingham in the art department
of the State University , and has been connected with that institution
ever since . He uses no text books. Hismode of teaching is wholly
practical, and his pupils advance very rapidly . In addition to art ,
Prof. Diehl possesses a thorough literary education ; speaks English,
German and French . He was married in Paris , France , to Miss Isa
bella Dupont, the marriage ceremony being performed by Gen. John
A. Dix , then United States minister to France . Mrs. Diehl is also an
artist of considerable ability . Specimens of her work may be seen
in the art rooms of the University . She is devoted to her husband
and her children , and has been of great help to him in his chosen pro
fession . They have had seven children , five of whom are living.
Their names are Rose , Alice , Felix Conrad, Conrad Lewis and
Mignon . Prof. Diehl is not a church member . Mrs. Diehl is a
Catholic.
J. S. DORSEY .
Jere . Spires Dorsey is a native of Nicholas county , Kentucky, where

he was born November 11th , 1834. He lived in his native county and
at Mt. Sterling until he was nineteen years old . He was educated at
Mt. Sterling under the instructions of Hugh B. Todd, an eminent
teacher, afterwards principal of Camden Point Academy, Platte county ,
Missouri. In 1854 Mr. Dorsey cameto Columbia ,where he started the
first hardware store in the place . In 1857 he took in Dick Carter as
partner . Continued the business until 1862, when he was banished

by order of Gen. Merrill. Went to Cincinnati, where he was en
gaged to sell hardware as a commercial traveller . Returned to Colum
bia in 1863 and engaged in the dry goods business with Samuel, Conley
& Strawn . In 1864 went to St. Louis and engaged in selling hardware
as a commercial traveller . In the fall of 1865 returned to Columbia
and bought the drug store of Swallow & Gilman , in which business he
has continued ever since, adding a jewelry department in 1867.
Was the first railroad agent in Columbia , receiving his appointment in
1867, holding the position for one year. He established the first in
surance agency in the county in 1854 , representing the Home, of New
York . He also sold the first reaper and mower . The purchasers
were Messrs. Beatty & Simmons, and the reaper one of the Atkins
patent. He was first express agent for Richardson's Express Com
pany at Columbia , appointed in 1857. Afterwards was agent for the
United States Company , and the Merchants' Union , filling the office
of express agent continuously for fifteen years. He has been presi
dent of the Boone County Insurance Company since its organization
in 1875. He is curator, trustee and treasurer of Christian College.
September 10th , 1857, Mr. Dorsey was married to Miss Margaret,
daughter of Samuel W.Williams, of Kentucky. They have six chil
dren living and one dead. Mr. and Mrs. Dorsey are both members
of the Christian church .
GEN . J. B. DOUGLASS .
Gen. Joseph Beeler Douglass was born in Mercer (now Boyle )

county, Kentucky November 12th , 1819. His father, William Douglass ,
was a native of Maryland ,born in 1775 , died in Boone county ,Missouri,
June 30 , 1843. He came to this county in 1827, and settled near
Harrisburg , where he lived out the remainder of his days. Gen.
Douglass remained on his father's farm until 1848, when he came to

Columbia as deputy sheriff under Wm . P. Hickman . In 1850 he was
elected sheriff and in 1852 was re- elected . In 1856 he was elected to
the Legislature with Col. William F. Switzler. In 1859 was elected
clerk of the county court ,which office he was holding when the war com
menced . In 1862 was commissioned colonel of the Sixty -first E.M.M.
The year following he was commissioned a brigadier -general by Gov.
Hall, and assigned to the Eighth military district, embracing several
counties in this part of Missouri. Left the service in 1865. He was
of much service to the citizens of this county , protecting their lives
and property . Was severe on men in arms, especially bushwhackers ,

but guarded the rights of non -combatants. After the war (in 1866 )
he was appointed United States assessor of the Fourth district , which
position he held for two years. Afterwards followed the nursery busi
ness, at the same timeacting as general agent of the horticultural de
partment of the State University . He is now living in Columbia .
Gen. Douglass was married in 1849 to Miss Nannie Wirt , of Boone
county. She died in 1875. They had six children , of whom only
two are now living, Joseph L. and Fannie D. Two children died in
infancy . One son , William Wirt , a graduate of medicine , died in
1877, aged twenty -three years . Mary A. died in 1882, aged twenty
eight . She was a graduate of Christian College, and possessed a
bright intellect and fine culture . She excelled in music and mathe
matics , and was quite proficient in all the accomplishments that con
stitute a refined and cultivated lady. She was universally loved by
all who had the pleasure of her acquaintance , and her death cast a
gloom over the entire community . Gen. Douglass is a member of the
Methodist Church South :
HON . SHANNON CLAY DOUGLASS .
The subject of this biographical sketch is the son of Alexander

Douglass, a prominent citizen of Columbia and for many years iden
tified with the business interest of the people among whom he lived
and died. He was a native of Harrison county , Kentucky, where he
was born and reared to the age of twelve years, when he came to Co
lumbia , Missouri, where he spent the remainder of his life in active
business , dying in February , 1866. In October , 1851, he was married
to Ann M. Shannon , eldest daughter of Rev. James Shannon , LL .
D., then president of the State University . Five children were born
of this marriage : Shannon C., William H., Alex. E., Fannie B., and
Mary Evalina Douglass, all of whom are now living. The subject of
this sketch was born December 29, 1852. He entered the State Uni
versity in early youth and graduated in June, 1870. Although hut
eighteen years of age , he received the degree of Bachelor of Arts, and
was chosen valedictorian of his class . Two months later he com
menced reading law with Gen. Odon Guitar , and remained in his of
fice for about five years. In the spring of 1871 he was appointed
town attorney, at which time he was licensed a member of the bar .
Wus city attorney for four years in succession . In June, 1873, he
graduated in the law department of the State University , taking
the degree of Bachelor of Laws ; also the degree of Master of Arts.

He was elected prosecuting attorney for Boone county , November ,
1874 , and was reëlected three times in succession , holding the office
from January 1, 1875 , to January 1 , 1881. At the State Democratic
convention , July, 1878 , Mr. Douglass was made a member of the
Democratic State central committee, for the eleventh congressional
district . In 1880 he was reëlected and chosen chairman . Declined a
reëlection at the State convention in July , 1882. Previous to resign
ing this position he addressed the convention , making an able , logical
and eloquent appeal in behalf of unity and harmony within the party
and excoriating the malcontents and traitors , who had twice betrayed
the party in the hour of its greatest peril. Mr. Douglass was mar
ried , September 8 , 1880 , to Miss Hattie H., daughter of Col. Wil
liam E. Burr , of St. Louis . One child , William Burr , was born to
them , May 28 , 1882. Mr. Douglass has been a member of the Chris
tian church since he was eleven years old . He united with the Ma
sonic order , December, 1878. Mr. Douglass is thorough in his pro
fession , and as an advocate he has, perhaps , no superior of his age in
the country . His profound knowledge of the law , his earnest, can
did , logical mode of speaking, coupled with an excellent knowledge of
human nature , gives him remarkable prestige at the bar and generally
insures a victory for his client, even under the most unfavorable cir
cumstances. He has already accomplished more than the average
professional man achieves in a lifetime, yet in the order of nature and
according to the rules that govern human life and effort his career of
usefulness has just commenced .
J. H. DRUMMOND , A. B.
Joseph Hudson Drummond was born October 29,1853, near Zanes

ville, Ohio . He is a son of Samuel Baxter and Mary Jane ( Tingle )
Drummond. The Drummond family is of Scottish origin . Mrs. D.'s
family was from the Isle of Guernsey. S. B. Drummond was a na
tive of Pennsylvania , from which State he removed to Ohio in an early
day , and from thence to Johnson county , Missouri, in 1869. He was
a merchant in Ohio , and a farmer in Missouri. He died July 4 , 1876 ,
on Independence day of the centennial year. Mrs. Drummond is still
living in Johnson county .
The subject hereof had received a good education for a young man
prior to his coming to Missouri, but he attended the University at
Columbia and graduated therefrom in the class of 1880. He ob
tained the means to defray the expenses of his education by engaging

in well-boring. In April, 1880, he was appointed librarian and proc
tor of the University , which position he still worthily fills . He was
tendered a position on the U. S. coast survey , but preferred to accept
his present position , whose multifarious duties he fulfils to universal
and complete satisfaction .
ALONZO T. DUNCAN .
Alonzo T. Duncan was born in Boone county , Missouri, December

18 , 1845. Was educated at the common schools of Columbia and at
the State University . Served an apprenticeship of three years at the
cabinet maker's trade under T. E. Powers and followed the business
for four years, then went to Litchfield , Illinois , in 1864, and remained
there one year. Came back to Columbia and went to work for Ruckel
& McAlister , builders and contractors , as foreman in their establish
ment. Was with this firm for three years. He was next employed
as foreman by Kneisley & Lukens, contractors and builders , and re
mained with them three years . He then formed a partnership with J.
D. Stewart in the same line of business . In 1874 he went to St.
Louis and acted as foreman for Dryden & Reid , builders. Remain
ing with this firm one year . Came back to Columbia in 1875 and
built the R. B. Price residence . In 1876 went into the furniture busi
ness with Lukens, under the firm name of Duncan & Lukens. Re
mained in this business for two years, when he sold out and went back
to the old business of contracting and building, under the firm name
of Duncan & McDaniel. In 1880 they dissolved partnership and
Mr. Duncan followed the business alone for a short time. In July ,
1881, he formed a partnership with B. F. Stewart, for building and
contracting in Columbia and Boone county . They built the public
school building , for which they received twelve thousand dollars ; also
the elevator and the Whittle building, besides many other business
houses and private residences in Columbia and vicinity . The firm has
built up a reputation second to none in the country , and their work
shows for itself both in style , quality and durability . Mr. Duncan
was married , June 30 , 1875 , to Miss Annie , daughter of Frederick
Scragg . They have one son and one daughter , Permelia and Fred
erick .
SAMUEL H. ELKINS .
Samuel H. Elkins is the son of Philip and Sarah ( Withers ) Elkins .

Hewas born in Henry county , Missouri, April 13th , 1847, and was
educated at Westford High School, Jackson county , Missouri, com

pleting his studies in the State University . From 1850 to 1861 his.
father resided . at Westford , Missouri. the latter
In the latter year he crossed
the plains to Fort Lyons , where he stayed one winter, returning to :
Missouri in the spring. In the fall of 1862 they removed to Santa
Fe, New Mexico . ' The subject of this sketch then went to Mesilla ,
where he clerked in a dry goods and grocery store. Remained there
about eighteen months. He went from there to Fort Union , where
he was engaged in the quartermaster's department. In the spring of
1864 he came to Kansas City , where he attended Spaulding's Com
mercial College for about twelve months, then returned to New
Mexico , and was engaged as government store-keeper at Mora , Mora
county . Was there a year and a half. In 1868–9 he and his brother ,
John T. Elkins, ran a cattle ranche on the Pecos river . Was after
wards with Commissioner John Hiltson , who was employed by the
United States government and Mexico to hunt up cattle that had been
stolen by the Mexicans during the war . They succeeded in restoring
eight thousand six hundred head of cattle . In 1874 Mr. Elkins came
to Columbia , and attended the University for two years . In 1880 he
entered the grocery trade in Columbia , and followed the business for
about eighteen months . Was married , October 17th , 1878 , to Miss
Isa Smith , formerly of Harrison county , Kentucky. They have two
children , a son , Philip D., and a daughter , Hattie M. Mr. Elkins '
father is in Santa Fe, New Mexico . His mother died in Nebraska
City . There were şix children , five sons and one daughter . The
three oldest are living . Stephen B. is a large capitalist of New York
City. He graduated at the Missouri State University in 1860 , at the
age of eighteen . He formerly represented New Mexico in Congress.
He has been twice married . His last wife is the daughter of Senator
Davis , of West Virginia . John T. Elkins is living in Kansas City . He
is also a capitalist, and largely interested in Western mines . He
married a daughter of Dr. Hereford , of Kansas City . The subject of

this sketch is the youngest of the family . His wife is a member of
the Christian church .
MAJ . FRANK D. EVANS .
Major Evans is the son of Green and Mary (Westlake) Evans, and
was born April 7th , 1834 , in Boone county , Missouri, ninemiles west
of Columbia and three and one- half miles east of Rocheport. His
father was born in Madison county , Kentucky, and came to Howard
county, Missouri, in 1816 , and died in 1844 , three miles east of
Rocheport, on the homestead where Frank was born , in the thirty

seventh year of his age , and is buried at the Brick Chapel. His
mother is from Point Pleasant, West Virginia . She is still living in
Callaway county , Missouri, at the age of sixty - nine . They were
married in Boone, and their union was blessed with seven children
all boys. Thomas (deceased ) ; James H., a farmer in Randolph
county , Missouri ; F. D., our subject ; Henry C. ( died in 1845 ) ;
Wm . M., died in 1864 , at Hastings, Minnesota ; John F., farming in
Callaway county , Missouri ; and Melville G., who died in 1845 .
Frank D., the subject of this sketch , was educated in this, his native
county , at the country schools. He lived upon the farm with his
father until the age of nineteen , when he married Miss Elizabeth M.,
daughter of Thomas and Nancy (Mitchell) Cropper. He bought a
farm in 1853, and lived upon it until 1855. In the spring of 1856 he
removed to Johnson county , Missouri, and followed farming there for
twu seasons . In the fall of 1857 he came to Rocheport and entered
the dry goods house of T. D. Jackman as book -keeper . Heremained

with the firm until July , 1860 , when he, in partnership with Henry
W. Crow , embarked in business for himself , under the firm name of
Crow & Evans . In September, 1862, he enlisted in the Missouri
militia , Company E., Captain Tyre G. Harris. At the end of forty
five days he received an adjutant's commission to rank as captain , and
upon the organization of the first provisional regiment, he was retained
as adjutant. In 1863 he was made Gen. J. B. Douglass' adjutant
general, with the rank ofmajor , and so remained until January , 1865 ,
when he was relieved from active duty . He then took charge of the
enrolling clerk's office of the Ninth district, with headquarters at St.
Charles. In July of the same year he removed to St. Louis, taking
charge of the books of the district until 1866. He was in no engage
ments, his work being entirely office work . In 1866 he came to
Columbia and accepted a position as book-keeper for Barth , Victor &
Meyer , and continued with them until the failure of the firm in
October, 1869. In February , 1870 , he formed a partnership with
Maupin and Allen , the style of the firm being Allen , Maupin & Co.,
in the grocery business. In November of the same year he sold out
to his partners , and took the position of book -keeper in the Boone
County National Bank , which position he has held until the present
tiine, and until July 22d had not lost a day from business in twelve
years. He was married September 14th , 1852, and is the father of
;
eight children , five boys and three girls. Silas D.; Tyson D., a
physician at Cedar City, Missouri ; Hugh R. ( deceased ) ; Lanius D .;

Paul H. (deceased ) ; Ida G. and Jessie Gertrude. He is a Mason ,
and both himself and wife are members of the Methodist church .
Major Evans is one of Columbia's staunch , reliable business men , and
is regarded by all as a conscientious Christian gentleman .
JAMES D. FAY .
James D. Fay, bricklayer, Columbia , Missouri, was born in Orange

county , New York , April 20 , 1852 ; he came to Sedalia , Missouri, in
1865 , and in 1867 went to Covington , Kentucky, where he was edu
cated ; he attended school in the winter and worked at his trade in the
summer . He learned bricklaying at this place , serving an apprentice
ship of three years . He came to Columbia in 1870 , where he has re
sided ever since ; he has devoted most of his time since coming to
Columbia to his trade and to the making of brick , for which work
he is well prepared . The brick furnished by him is of the very best
quality . He has the largest brickmaking establishment in the county ,
and is now working twelve hands . The kiln will average about 300 ,
000 brick annually . It is located northeast of Christian college, within
the city limits. He has all the modern appliances for making pressed
brick , such as our people were formerly compelled to ship from a dis
tance ; he is prepared to make all the brick needed in Columbia and
the surrounding country ; he makes estimates and takes contracts for
building brick houses . Mr. Fay , was married October 16 , 1873, to
Miss Henrietta , daughter of William Wingo . They have two sons
and two daughters living. Mr. Fay is a member of the K. P. lodge,
Columbia . Mrs. Fay is a member of the Baptist church .
EDWARD FARLEY .
Edward Farley , son of Edward and Mary (Smith ) Farley , was born
in county Cavan , Ireland , September 23 , 1832 ; he came to the United
States in the spring of 1852, and settled in St. Louis , Missouri ; he
was educated in Ireland , but learned the marble trade in St. Louis ,
serving an apprenticeship of three and a half years ; he remained in
St. Louis for seven years , when he went to Fulton , Callaway county ,
Missouri, where he stayed for one year, removing from there to Mex
ico , where he was married June 6 , 1860, to Miss Mary , daughter of
William Montgomery . By this union they had six children , one of
whom ( John S.) is dead . The names of the living are Henry A.,
Frank L., William E., Lewis R. and Robert E. In the spring of 1861,
Mr. Farley went to Iowa, where he remained during the war. In 1865
he came to Macon City , Missouri, where he opened a marble shop in
partnership with D. E. Wilson . He remained there one year , when
he returned to Mexico and engaged in the marble business , removing
to Columbia the year following, where he remained in business for five
years. From Columbia he went to Marshall , Missouri, where he re
mained for nine years in the marble business. In the year 1880 he
came back to Columbia and erected a large brick marble shop near
the court-house , where he is now actively engaged in his line of busi
ness, employing two hands besides himself ; he has three agents on
the road . He does work in the most artistic manner , using the finest
Italian , Vermont and Pennsylvania marble ; he makes monuments and
headstones at prices ranging from ten to one thousand dollars each ;
his work is widely known , being represented in nearly all the ceme
teries of Boone and adjoining counties . He is doing a prosperous
business, which is well merited and generously bestowed . In addition
to his marble works, he owns considerable real estate in Columbia .
Mr. Farley is a member of the Catholic church .
JAMES M. FERGUSON .
This gentleman is the son of James and Martha (Vaughn ) Fergu

son , and was born on his father's farm , five miles southwest of Colum
bia , on the old Providence road , February 25 , 1846 . He received his
education in the public schools of the county and at the State Univer
sity . In 1861 he began clerking for Dr. S. A. Victor , and served in
that capacity for about one year. In 1861–2 he was in the employ of
T. B. Gentry , Esq ., as deputy postmaster ( and clerk in his business
house ) . In 1863 he went to Jacksonville, Illinois, where he remained
until the following year , when he returned to Columbia and engaged
as clerk and salesman in the house ofMoss & Prewitt . With this firm
he engaged five years .
In 1869 Mr. Ferguson begau business for himself, forming a part
nership in the grocery trade with James S. Hickman , the firm name
being Hickman & Ferguson . Two years later he disposed of his in
terest in the business to Hickman & McKim , and clerked for Strawn ,
Hedden & Co for about a year. Returning from a visit to Kentucky
in the fall of 1872 , he served as a salesman for the dry goods house
of Wells & Marks in the years 1873–4 . In the fall of 1875 he became
a member of the firm of Scott, Kennan & Ferguson in the grocery
trade, which partnership was continued for four years , or until 1879 ,
when J. W. Strawn was taken in . August 1 , 1882, the firm became

Strawn , Ferguson & Bouchelle , which is its present style .
This firm occupy new and spacious quarters in Whittle's block , cor
ner of Ninth and Broadway. They have two departments , one devoted
exclusively to the grocery trade, and the other to dry goods, notions ,
clothing , etc. They carry full lines and a large stock in every depart
ment and branch of the business. Six clerks and salesmen are em
ployed in the grocery department; eight are at work in the dry goods
room . The area of both rooms is 92 by 401/2 feet. The firm is com
posed of James M. Ferguson, J. W. Strawn and R. J. Bouchelle , and,
as at present constituted , was organized August 1, 1882 .
January 28 , 1880, Mr. Ferguson wasmarried to Miss Mattie Hughes,
the accomplished daughter of Joseph S. Hughes , the well-known
banker of Richmond , Missouri. Mr. and Mrs. Ferguson are the par
ents of one child , named Joseph H. Mr. Ferguson is a member of
the Masonic order ; he is also a member of the Presbyterian church .
Mrs. Ferguson belongs to the Christian church .
The father of Mr. Ferguson died and was buried in Mexico in the
year 1846. His mother died in St. Louis in 1872 , but was buried in
the Columbia cemetery . The subject hereof was the youngest child of
a family of children composed of three sons and two daughters, all of
whom are still living .
PROF. JOSEPH FICKLIN , A. M., PH . D.
Joseph Ficklin was born in Winchester , Clark county , Kentucky ,

September 9, 1833 ; his father, Joseph Ficklin , Sr., was also a native
of Kentucky, born in Mercer county in 1811. When Joseph , Jr., was
an infant, his father removed to a farm near the little town of Salvisa ,
Mercer county , Kentucky, and here the subject of this sketch learned
to read and to write . At Salvisa also he obtained his first mathemat
ical knowledge, learning the multiplication table from the back part
of an old copy book . This was before he was eight years of age. In
1841 Mr. Ficklin , Sr., removed to another farm between Pleasant Hill
and Harrodsburg , the former a village inhabited by the Shakers . On
this farm Joseph lived until he was eighteen years of age, employing
his time at farm work and at labor in his father's wagon shop . He
became a good wagon maker, for one of his years. Meanwhile all of
his leisure time had been devoted to the acquirement of an education ,
a cherished object with him , and one to be pursued under difficulties .
His father was poor and had a large family to support, and the path
862 HISTORY OF BOONE COUNTY.
of a poor man was not a pleasant one in Kentucky at that day . But
by the time “ Joe ” Ficklin was seventeen years of age he had , almost
unaided , completed common arithmetic, made some progress in Latin ,
and had begun the study of Davies' Elementary Algebra .
In the autumn of 1851 the senior Ficklin removed from Kentucky
to Grundy county , Missouri. Joseph accompanied the family to St.
Louis , and then went down the river to New Madrid , and there taught
his first school. In February, 1852, he returned to Kentucky and
lived with his grandfather , where he had the opportunity of attending
a good school until in September, 1853. Up to this period he had
studied , if not mastered , algebra , geometry , trigonometry , surveying ,
Cæsar, Virgil , Horace , and had made some progress in Greek . He
bought his books with money paid him by his grandfather for work
done ; the generous old gentleman charged him nothing for his board .
September 18 , 1853, he came to Trenton , Grundy county , where his
father then lived . Here he borrowed money and went to the old Ma
sonic college at Lexington, entering the sophomore class in all the
departments. At the close of the sophomore year his funds became
exhausted , and , unable to procure more , he was reluctantly compelled
to leave the college, which he never after attended as a student. Sub
sequently, however, it conferred on him the degree of A. B.
In the fall of 1854 he began teaching in the high school at Trenton ,
Giundy county , as principal. One of the trustees of the school, Mr.
James Terrill, did not look with much favor on the selection of Mr.
Ficklin . “ I prefer a married man ,” said Mr. T. “ I have two daugh
ters who will attend the school, and I prefer that they be taught by
one of mature years , settled in life . This Mr. Ficklin is a single man ,
and will be falling in love with one of his young lady pupils one
of these days.” Mr. Terrill's worst fears were afterwards realized .
Mr. Ficklin did conceive the tender passion for one of his " young
lady pupils ,” who was Miss Penelope Terrill, the daughter of the
prophetic trustee himself ! Who says there are no such sensations
as premonitions of danger ? Mr. and Mrs. Ficklin were married
March 3 , 1856. They are the parents of six children - Octavia , Nel
lie , John Bowman , Thomas Allen , Walter H. and Mary . Mrs. F. is
a native of Randolph county , Missouri, born October 10 , 1837 .
In 1859 Prof. Ficklin accepted the chair of mathematics in Bloom
ington Female College , Illinois. He did not remain here long, how
ever , and in the early spring of the following year returned to Mis
souri. In the autumn of 1860 he took charge of the public school at
Linneus , Linn county . At the close of the term he opened a select

school, but the civil war breaking out and continuing while he taught,
his school and his income were comparatively small .
In September, 1864, he left Linneus to accept the chair of mathe
matics in the Christian Female College, at Columbia .About this time
a similar position was tendered him in Eminence College, Kentucky .
Prof. Ficklin had been in Columbia about one year when the professor
ship of mathematics in the State University became vacant. Mean
time he had been a contributor to the mathematical departments of
certain scientific journals, and had published solutions of certain intri
cate and difficult problems, which indicated superior and profound
knowledge of mathematics on his part . One of these solutions fell
under the observation of President Lathrop , of the University . Ata
meeting of the officers of that institution to fill the vacancy in the
mathematical chair , Dr. Lathrop said : “ Gentlemen , are you aware
that we have the very man for the place right here in Columbia ? That
little fellow over at Christian college is the very man we want.” This
led to investigation, and resulted in the election of Prof. Ficklin to
the professorship of mathematics and astronomy in Missouri's great
est , noblest school, which position he now holds.
In 1874 the “ little fellow from Christian college ” received the de
gree of Ph. D. from the University of Wisconsin . The Univer
sity of Missouri had previously made him an artium magister , or
Master of Arts. He is also a Fellow of the American Association for
the Advancement of Science , whose sessions he attends when practi
cable , and before which organization he has read valuable papers. In
1869 he assisted Prof. Snell, of Amherst college, in a revision of the
college edition of Olmsted's Natural Philosophy, himself revising the
entire mathematical portions of the work . In 1874 he published ,
through Ivison , Blakeman , Taylor & Co., New York , his Complete
Algebra and his Algebraic Problems; also , keys to both works. In
1881 appeared from the house of A. S. Barnes & Co., New York ,
Ficklin's Primary Arithmetic, Ficklin's Practical Arithmetic , Ficklin's
National Arithmetic , and Ficklin's Elements of Algebra , with keys to
the last three named . Prof. Ficklin's mathematical works have been
well received throughout the country , and his fame as a scientist is
already well established in the United States and in Europe. Noman
ought to be more proud of reputation honestly gained and fairly main
tained than this little fellow ," and yet no man is less so . The La
Place of Missouri, he is “ as common as an old shoe ," as unassuming
and accessible as if he were still a country wagon-maker instead of a

learned professor and philosopher , and as genial and agreeable a com
panion as you shall meet anywhere , “ on any summer's day .”
Prof. Ficklin has been a member of the Christian church for twenty
six years. He is a member of the Masonic order. In politics he
takes no very active part , but votes theDemocratic ticket when he goes
to the polls. He was a non -combatant during the civil war, the only
skirmishes in which he was engaged being with the “ rebellious " and
refractory boys of his school at Linneus , infrequent in number and not
serious in character . His father served under Gen. Sterling Price a
portion of the time during the war.
The fine telescope now in the University observatory was adjusted
by Prof. Ficklin , who is its chief master and most frequent visitor .
He is a thoroughly practical astronomer ; is at home in every depart
ment of mathematical science , whether it relates to the solution of
arithmetical problems or a discussion on the precession of the equi
noxes . It is too early yet to write an appropriate sketch of the life ,
character, and career of Joseph Ficklin .
PROF . M. M. FISHER .
Professor Michael Montgomery Fisher was born in Parke county ,

Indiana , October 8tb , 1834. Hewas educated at Waveland academy ,
Montgomery county , completing his studies at Hanover College , In
-diana, from which institution he received the degree of A. B., in 1855 ;
and from the same college , in 1858 , the degree of A.M. In 1868 he
received the degree of D. D., from Westminster College, Fulton , Mis
souri. At the age of sixteen taught in Pleasant Hill academy, Cape
Girardeau county , Missouri, to get money to attend college. After
graduating in 1856 , was chosen professor of Latin and Greek in West
minster College, Fulton . In 1857 was assigned to the Latin chair ,
which he held until 1861, when , with W. W. Hill, D. D., he estab
lished Bellwood Female academy, near Louisville , Kentucky . In
1862 was recalled to Westminster and made chairman of the faculty
of that institution , at the same time filling the chairs of Latin and
Metaphysics. In 1870 be resigned , to accept the presidency of a fe
male college, at Independence , Missouri, and at the sametime assum
ing the duties of pastor of the Presbyterian church of that city . His
labors in this field proved most successful, but he did not remain long
at Independence . Hewas recalled to Westminster on the resignation
of the Rev. Dr. Rice in 1874, and took charge of his professorship .
In 1877 he was elected professor of Latin in the Missouri State Uni

versity , which position he has filled with great ability ever since . Few
men are more closely identified with the educational interests of this
State, and not one, perhaps , of his age , has taught so long, he hav
ing been a teacher in Missouri for twenty -six years. Prof. Fisher
is not only justly distinguished as a teacher , but equally so , perhaps,
as an author . In 1878 he published a pamphlet entitled “ The Three
Pronunciations of Latin ," which excited much controversy. In 1879 ,
iu response to numerous requests from American teachers of Latin ,
he published a more comprehensive work on the same subject , entitled
« Fisher on the Three Pronunciations of Latin . " This work has al
read passed through two editions, and the demand for it , both in this
country and Europe , is very great. We have numerous testimonials
hefore us, from which we can make but a few brief extracts . The St.
Louis Republican says of it :
We shall not attempt a synopsis of a book that strikes us as handling most ably and
thoroughly this question , in which scholars everywhere are so deeply interested . Of
equal interest to all scholars, to all professional and scientific men, and may be regarded
as indispensable to teachers of Latin .
In addition to the above there are a number of other press notices ,
taken from the most influential papers of the country , published in al
most every State of the Union ; also many flattering testimonials from
teachers, of which we select the following from Prof. T. W. Coit , of
Middletown , Connecticut :
I am a total stranger to you, but take the liberty of a brother professor to offer you
my best thanks for your capital book on the pronunciation of Latin . But one thing I
am fully persuaded of, and that is that our would -be classical reformers will not only
murder Latin , but slaughter English in the bargain .
Prof. Fisher is now a regular contributor to the New England Journal

of Education . He is also engaged on a complete series of Latin text
books. He is a member of the American Philological Association ,
and has read papers at its meetings. . Prof. Fisher has been married
three times . First, in 1856 , to Anna E. Atwood, daughter of Dr.
U. T. Atwood , of St. Louis . She died in 1864. In 1866 he was
married to Miss Bettie Blair Coleman , cousin of Gen. Frank P. Blair .
She died in 1872. December , 1874 , he was inarried to Miss Eliza
Gamble, daughter of Judge John W.Gamble , of Louisville. By the
first marriage he has three children , Lizzie , Hamilton and Ernest .
By the second marriage, one son , Samuel Blair. By the last marriage
they have had four children , of whom three are living. Their names
are , James M., Mary and Julia . The dead son was named Gamble .
55
Hamilton is now engaged in the mercantile business at Terre Haute,

Indiana. Ernest is studying medicine at Sedalia , Missouri. The
other children are with their parents. Dr. Fisher and his wife are
both members of the Presbyterian church . He is also a Royal Arch
Mason .
GEORGE E. FLOOD .
The subject of this sketch is the only surviving son of Rev. Noah and
Jane L. ( Ayers ) Flood . He was born three miles north of Fulton ,
Callaway county , Missouri, November 2 , 1848 . Rev. Noah Flood ,
the father of the subject of this sketch , was one of the ablest and
most useful preachers of his church , and the history of his eventful
life would fill a volume if written in detail. He was born in 1809,
and landed in Missouri at the age of twenty with only his trade and
fifty cents in money . He had learned the tailor's trade in Kentucky,
and from time to time worked at the business in defraying his ex
penses while struggling for an education such as might well fit him
for the high calling to which he aspired and finally attained , but not
by the easy paths usually pursued by modern divinity students. He
obtained his education mostly at Alton , Illinois. Entering the minis

try at an early age , he travelled extensively for several years, mostly
in Missouri, preaching and organizing churches . He was pastor of
Walnut Grove Church , near Rocheport, for twenty years . He was
also pastor of Bethlehem , Bonne Femme and New Salem churches ,
all in Boone county . He organized the church at Grand View , also
in Boone . He
He wa s an earnest friend and promoter of educational
was
enterprises , and did more in his humble way towards building up
Baptist institutions of learning than most any other man of his de
nomination . Stephens College , William Jewell, and Mt. Pleasant
all owe him a debt of gratitude as one of their principal benefactors.
He died August 11, 1873, and is buried at Richland, Callaway county ,
Missouri. Mrs. Flood is still living at the age of sixty -two. She re
sides in Columbia with her children . There were eleven children in
all born to Noah Flood , five sons and six daughters, of whom only
one son and five daughters are now living. George , the only surviv
ing son , was educated at the Missouri State University , graduating
with first honors in the agricultural department in 1873 .
awarded the prize medal on the day he graduated . He afterwards
took the degree of B. S., and in 1875 took his degree in the engineer
department. After completing his studies , he received the appoint
ment of deputy surveyor under M. G. Quinn . In the fall of 1875–76 .
he taught school in Boone county , and the summer following was it

candidate for county surveyor, but was defeated . In 1877 taught
school in Boone, and in 1878 taught in Callaway county . He also
acted as deputy surveyor under Thomas H. Haley , of that county .
Returned to Boone county and taught school in 1879–80 . In the
summer of 1880 acted as street commissioner of Columbia . In 1881
he again attended the University and took another degree in higher

mathematics. Was appointed deputy surveyor under W. E. Wright ,
which position he still holds. He is a member of the Baptist church
and a Master Mason . He is a fine civil engineer and a practical sur
veyor , having devoted the best years of his life to the studies neces
sary to fit him for such duties .
JOHN T. FYFER .
John Thylo Fyfer was born in Quebec, Canada, February 3 , 1835 .

Was educated at the French and English college of that city , learned
German and French , and was early initiated in the wholesale trade,
it being intended that he should represent his firm in the European
trade. At the age of nineteen he went to Orange county , Virginia ,
where he remained for three years. Afterwards came to Columbia
and engaged in business with Jonathan Kirkbride. In 1860 formed a
partnership with Mr. Trimble . He was married in 1868 to Miss
Laura Berry , of Springfield , Missouri. Three daughters were born
to them : Lizzie Kirkbride , Laura and Lou . They have developed
considerable skill in music , having a family predilection that way.
Mrs. Fyfer died July 12 , 1882, aged forty -seven . She was a graduate
of Visitation convent, St. Louis, Missouri, and a lady of rare culture .
She was a member of the Episcopalian church . Mr. Fyfer is also a
member of the Episcopal church . He is also a Knight Templar.
W. W. GARTH .
Walter Warren Garth was born in Columbia , January 27, 1848 .

His father is Jefferson Garth , one of the oldest and most prominent
citizens of Boone county , who came from Scott county , Kentucky,
and settled here in 1836 . Walter Garth was educated at the common
-
schools and at all three of the Columbia colleges the University , the
Baptist and the Christian . At the age of eighteen , or in the year 1866 ,
he was appointed deputy circuit clerk by John M. Samuel, the then in
cumbent of the office . He held this position until 1874 , when he was
elected to the office , and became, at the age of twenty -six , circuit.
clerk and recorder of Boone county . In 1878 , after a close and excit
ing contest, he was reëlected over Mr. Woodson , one of the most popu
lar men in the county . Mr. Garth has filled the office to the general
satisfaction of all the people, and has made for himself hosts of
friends by his courteous , accommodating conduct as a public officer
and as a man .
Mr. Garth is a prominent member of the Masonic order . He has
taken all the degrees up to and including that of Knight Templar.

He has been master of the blue lodge ; T. I. G.M. of the council ;
H. P. of the chapter , and E. C. of the commandery . He and Mrs.
Garth are members of the Presbyterian church .
October 7 , 1867, when but nineteen years of age, Mr. Garth mar
ried Miss Eva Samuel, a daughter of Hon . John M. Samuel, and a
most accomplished young lady, and a graduate of Bellwood seminary ,
Kentucky. Mr. and Mrs. Garth have had born to them six children ,
four of whom are yet living, viz. : Mary , Jefferson , Lucy and William .
Their oldest son, John , a bright, promising lad of thirteen , the pride
and fond hope of his parents , and a favorite with all who knew him ,
was one of the victims of the Samuel's pond disaster , November 29,
1881, mention of which heart -rending circumstance is to be found
elsewhere in this history .
The Garth family were Unionists, but not Radical, during the civil
war. Samuel A. Garth , a brother of the subject of this sketch , com
manded a company in the Federal service . Walter Garth is in poli
tics a Democrat , fully in accord with and strong in the faith of the
party founded by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison . Possessed
of a genial, kindly nature, an active , intelligent spirit, troops of
friends , a splendid record as to past conduct, “ Wat.” Garth's future
is promising , and his life can hardly fail of being a success.
JEFFERSON GARTH .
Jefferson Garth was born in Scott county , Kentucky, May 22, 1803 .
He is the son of John and Sally (Griffith ) Garth . He came to Boone
county , Missouri, in the fall of 1836 . Nine years previous to emi
grating to Missouri, he married Mary Ann, daughter of Gen. Robert
S. Russell . By this marriage they have had eight children , seven
sons and one daughter, of whom two sons , Robert and Thomas Allen ,
are dead. Walter W.Garth , clerk of the circuit court, is the young
est of the family . William is a farmer in Clay county . Samuel has
a cattle ranche in the Indian Nation , where he is now living. Henry H.
is living in Rocheport , where he has a grocery store. James M. is

living on a farm four miles north of Rocheport. Lizzie , the only
daughter, is the wife of Col. C. T.Worley . Mrs. Worley is living with
her parents . Mr. Garth has followed farming all his life . He has a
fine farm of 600 acres , lying partially within the suburbs of Columbia .
It is wellwatered and timbered . Mrs. Garth is the only child of the
Russell family now living . She is seventy - seven years old . Mr. Garth's
father died in 1836 , and his mother a few years later . John Garth
was one of the largest farmers and slaveholders in Scott county .
MAJOR GENERAL RICHARD GENTRY, DECEASED .
One of the most prominent characters of Boone county and of Mis

souri in early days , was the distinguished citizen and soldier whose
name heads this sketch . Gen. Gentry was born in Madison county ,
Ky ., August 21st , 1788. He was a son of Richard Gentry , Sr., Esq . ,
of Virginia , and one of a family of nineteen children , sixteen sons and
three daughters . This family has numerous members and representa
tives throughout Missouri, the majority of whom are or have been
prominently connected with the political history and the financial,
commercial, and other vital interests of the State .
Early in life Richard Gentry , Jr., evinced a fondness and talent
for military service . When but nineteen years of age he received a
commission from Gov. Christopher Greenup , of Kentucky, appointing
him a lieutenant in the 19th Regiment of Kentucky militia . This com
mission bears date March 27th , 1808. Subsequently , June 18th , 1811 ,
he was commissioned captain by Gov. Chas . Scott. September 1st,
1813, he was appointed by Gov. Isaac Shelby ensign of volunteers,
and in this capacity served in the war of 1812. He was under the
command of Gen. Harrison and his service was rendered on the
northern border. He took part in different engagements with the
British and Indians, including the battle of the Thames, in Canada,
October, 1813. After his removal to Missouri, Gen. Gentry received
the following commissions in the military service ofthe State :
From Gov. Alex . McNair , April 20th , 1821, as captain of the 4th
company, 2d battalion , 14th regiment, 1st brigade , 1st division of
Missouri militia .
From Gov. McNair , September 5th , 1822, as colonel of the 26th
regiment, 1st brigade, 1st division .
From Gov. John Miller , January 26th , 1832 , as major-general of
the 3d division .
From Gov. Lilburn W.Boggs, July 11th , 1837 , as colonel of the

1st Missouri volunteers .
From Gov. Boggs , September 12th , 1837, as major- general of the

12th division of Missouri militia .
In 1816 , Gen. Gentry came to Missouri, and located first in St.

Louis county . In 1818 he came to Old Franklin , Howard county ,
and in 1820 to Boone county , settling near Columbia . He was a
member of the Smithton town company . Upon the removal of the
county seat, he settled permanently in Columbia, which was his

home while he lived . From 1826 to 1830 he was the State Senator
from this district . In 1832 he commanded the Missouri troops on
the oxpedition to northeast Missouri during the Black Hawk war .

(See general history .) Five years later he was authorized by the Sec
retary of War , Joel R. Poinsett, to raise a regiment of Missouri vol
unteers for service in the Florida war against the Seminoles , which
he did . ( See general history for full and interesting particulars .)
It is generally known thatGen. Gentry fell at the battle of Okeecho
bee , Florida, Christmas day, 1837. The Missouri troops were dis
mounted , and with their colonel at the head , were crossing a swamp
to attack the Seminoles. Col.G. waved his sword and cried out to
his men : “ Come on , boys ! ” Immediately he was struck by a
bullet from an Indian rifle and mortally wounded . His wound was
through the bowels ; a silk handkerchief was drawn through it , which
circumstance will indicate its character . He died at about the ensu
ing midnight. Before his death he sent for Gen. Zachary Taylor ,
the commanding officer, and requested him to do the Missouri regi
ment full justice and give it proper credit for its services . Col.
Gentry's son , Harrison Gentry , who was sergeant-major of the regi

ment, was wounded in the arm in the same engagement.
The history of the services ofGen. Gentry is so interwoven with the
history of Boone county , and set out so fully on other pages of this
volume, that it would be a work of superogation to write it here .
What is here written is partly a repetition ofmatter to be found else
where. His remains lie in Jefferson Barracks, St. Louis, and he
Dreams of battle fields no more - days of danger, nights of waking.
They were brought from Florida and interred by the General Gov
ernment , Brig -Gen . Atkinson having especial charge of that duty .
Prior to the Black Hawk and Florida war say about 1830 - Gen.
Gentry was engaged in the Santa Fe trade, and made several trips to
-
-
New Mexico in the prosecution of his business , in which he was fairly

successful.
In person , Gen. Gentry was about six feet in height, and weighed
200 pounds . He was of a robust physique and of an aotive tempera
ment . His eyes and hair were dark , if not black , and he was a fine
specimen of noble manhood both in appearance and reality . His por
trait , by Geo . C. Bingham , now in the possession of his son, T. B.
Gentry , Esq., is said to be a good likeness . He was a member of the
Presbyterian church , and belonged to the order of Free Masons . In
politics , he was a Jackson Democrat, and a warm personal and politi
cal friend of Col. Thos. H. Benton , who, from his seat in the U. S.
Senate , sent numerous letters of condolence to Mrs. Ann Gentry , the
colonel's widow , upon her husband's death , and secured for her the
position of postmistress at Columbia , which position she held for more
than thirty consecutive years, being first commissioned , February
20th , 1838 , by Amos Kendall, postmaster -general. Gen. Gentry ,
himself, had previously held the office , being first appointed January
12th , 1830 , by P. M.Gen.Wm . T. Barry .
Gen. Gentry had a family of interesting children , all of whom at
tained greater or less distinction , that arrived at maturity . Harrison
Gentry , who was wounded at Okeechobee , died in Columbia in 1871.
Nicholas H. Gentry took service under Gen. Price , upon the outbreak
of the civil war, and died from wounds received at the battle of
Wilson's Creek . O. P. Gentry , a prominent citizen of Monroe
county , died at Paris , Mo., in 1881. Thos. B. Gentry, the only
surviving son of the family , resides at Columbia ; his biographical
sketch will be found elsewhere. Miss Ann Eliza Gentry was a lady
of rare talents and attainments ; a woman renowned as well for her
accomplishments as for her general qualities . She was celebrated as
a teacher , and was at first assistant to Miss Lucy Wales , of Colum
bia , and afterwards connected with other educational institutions in
different parts of the State, notably with Grand River College,
Grundy county . She first married a Mr. Bryan and afterward be
came the wife of a gentleman named Elliott. She died in Vernon

county , in 1879.
Gen. G. was married February 13th , 1810 , to Miss Ann Hawkins,
of Kentucky , a daughter of Nicholas Hawkins, an old soldier of the
Revolution . They became the parents of thirteen children , only two
of whom are now living , Thos. B. and Mary, now the wife of Boyle
Gordon , Esq .
THOS . B. GENTRY .
Thomas Benton Gentry , Esq., son of Gen. Richard Gentry , was

born in Columbia , October 13th , 1830 , and was educated in the
schools of his native county . Upon the death of his distinguished
father his mother was given the post -office at Columbia , and in 1855 ,
he entered the office as head clerk , which position he held for several
years , including the period of the civil war . Previous to this he had
engaged in merchandising for a period of about twelve years. From

1868 to 1878 he was justice of the peace . He served as one of the
trustees of the town of Columbia for many years , and has twice been
chairman of the board . For five years he was the treasurer of the
State University .
October 30th , 1860 , Mr. Gentry married Miss Mary Todd , a
daughter of Roger North Todd, the pioneer clerk of Boone county , a
sketch of whose life appears elsewhere. Mr. and Mrs. Gentry have
two sons, promising youths, who are in attendance at school in Colum
bia . The family lives in a pleasant and comfortable home in the sub
urbs of Columbia , with all the elements necessary to constitute hap
piness — health and strength , a fair competence , and hosts of warm
friends. In this home, Mr. Gentry has certain articles of historic in
terest and value pertaining to his renowned father . He has Gen.
Gentry's sword , epaulets ( those of a major general ), coat, chapeau ,
numerous commissions etc., together with the flag of the regiment
commanded by Col. G. at the time of his death . A sketch of this
banner will be found in another part of this history .
Mr. and Mrs. Gentry are members of the Presbyterian church , of
which Mr. G.has been an elder for nearly twenty years .' He is also
a member of the order of Good Templars . In politics Mr. Gentry
is conservative and not the slave of any party . Prior to the civil
was, he was a Democrat. During the war he was an unconditional,
uncompromising Union man with no sympathy at all for secession .
He voted for Gen. Grant in 1868 and 1872 , but since the latter
named period has generally acted with the Democratic party , voting
for Tilden in 1876 and Hancock in 1880. In 1874 Mr. Gentry was
graduated from the law department of the State University , but is
not now an active practitioner . He lives in semi- retirement, in his
beautiful little home in the bosom of his excellent family , and is well
known as an estimable , honorable gentleman , generous and hospitable,
meriting and receiving universal esteem .
JOHN BOYLE GORDON , DECEASED .
John Boyle Gordon was born in Milford ,Madison county , Kentucky.

His father, David Gordon , was a native of North Carolina who emi
grated to Kentucky in an early day , and by shrewd management and
energy , laid the foundation of a considerable fortune. After estab
lisbing himself in business, in Madison county , he married Miss Jane
Boyle , sister of John Boyle , chief justice of Kentucky. Mrs. Adams,
mother of Judge Washington Adams, of Missouri, is also another
sister. The subject of this sketch was brought up on the farm and
was early inured to all the hardships of farm life , but had little appre
ciation of agricultural pursuits. He attended the country schools of
winters and studied hard between sessions until he was prepared to
teach school. He taught until he had procured means to place him

self at Transylvania University , Lexington , Kentucky, some twenty
miles from his father's home. There , under the instructions of Horace
Holby, he made rapid progress in his chosen profession . He spent
two years at this institution , being limited to that period for the want
of means . He returned home sorely puzzled as to what course to
pursue, as his father seemed not at all disposed to further his designs
in procuring a legal education . In this dilemma, he approached W.
H. Caperton, an eminent lawyer of the Richmond bar, who generously
responded to his appeal, giving him all the instruction in his power ,
and advancing him the means he stood so inuch in need of. Return
ing to Transylvania , be completed his course and was admitted to
the bar . He commenced his professional career at the Richmond bar
by forming a partnership with Col. John Speed Smith , brother- in -law
to Cassius M. Clay . When thoroughly established in business, he
married Miss Sophia , daughter of Nicholas Hawkins, a well -to -do
farmer of Madison county . In 1826, David Gordon , the father of
John B., resolved to emigrate to Columbia , Missouri, and his son came
with him . At the time of their advent, Columbia contained but two
or three houses , rude cabins hardly worthy the name of houses .
They found the people of Boone county , even at this early date, very
much absorbed in politics, being about equally divided between the
Whig and Democratic parties. The subject of this sketch , being an
ardent Whig, at once entered the arena of politics . He was directly
chosen candidate for the legislature and elected . At the subsequent
election he was returned , and so on for five or six times in succession .
This was between 1830 and 1840. He was never beaten for office .
During this time he was associated in the law business with Austin A.
King, afterwards governor of the State . King was a Democrat and
was once beaten by his partner . In 1839-40 , when the location of
the State University was to be settled between Cole , Cooper , Calla
way, Boone and Howard - the county subscribing the most to get the
institution - John B. Gordon took the stump, assisted by Hon . James
S. Rollins. By their united efforts, and the unprecedented liberality
of the people , Boone secured the University . About this time Mr.
Gordon took his younger brother , James M.Gordon , into his office
and prepared him for the bar and for a life of future usefulness and
honor. In 1840 Mr. Gordon returned to Kentucky, and resumed the
practice of his profession . His great success as a lawyer drew about
hiin a number of young men eager to learn of him and to profit by his
profound knowledge of law , among whom was Judge Samuel Miller ,
now one of the Judges of the Supreme Court of the United States .
Mr. Gordon remained in Kentucky for about three years when he
returned to Columbia and gradually retired from the active duties of
his profession . He had six children , four sons and two daughters .
Martha , the eldest of the daughters, married Judge Robert H. Clink
scales , formerly a prominent business man of Columbia ,and for a brief
period judge of the county court. Ida , the second daughter, married
Prof. Oren Root , Jr., formerly connected with the State University .
Boyle , the eldest son , has been an able practitioner at the Columbia
bar for many years, and a professor of law in the State University .
Wellington and Carey are also well-known attorneys of Columbia ,
Missouri. John B. Gordon , or “ Jack ," as he was familiarly called ,
died on his farm , near Columbia , February 13th , 1855 , ( ? ) at the age
of fifty -five years .
CAREY H. GORDON .
Carey H. Gordon is the son of John B. and Sophia (Hawkins )

Gordon . He was born in Columbia , Missouri, June 10th , 1844 , and
was educated at the State University , attending the literary depart
ment of that institution for three years, and afterwards the law de
partment for two years . Commenced the practice of law in 1872 with
his brother, Wellington Gordon , at Columbia . In 1864 he enlisted
as a private in company B , 9th Missouri State Militia , and served
three years , leaving the army in March , 1865. In August , 1863, he
was transferred to a newly organized company of which he was made
second lieutenant. Was at the battle of Kirksville , in Adair county ,
August, 1862. Was afterwards on a scout with ten men , some ten miles
-- - - --
froin Liberty , in Clay county , Missouri, when they came in con

flict with Jesse James and his band . Two of Gordon's men were
wounded and two horses shot . Three of the Jaines band were
wounded , the noted outlaw being of the number , losing one of his
fingers. He sent Gordon word the nextday , offering him a horse and
a suit of clothes if he would come to Kearney , Clay county , by him
self. Gordon returned answer that he was not in need of a horse nor
of clothing. Mr. Gordon resigned and left the service in March , 1865,
to prosecute his studies at the State University . He was married in
1876 to Miss Julia Long , of Bridgeton, St. Louis county , Missouri.
They have four children , two sons and two daughters : Boyle Jr.,
Edwin , Clara and Sophia . Mr. Gordon is a member of the Christian
church . Mrs. Gordon is a member of the Baptist church . He is also
a member of the order of K. of P. He has followed farming in con
nection with his law practice since entering upon the active duties of
life . He has a good farm of 332 acres situated two miles east of Co
lumbia , on the Fulton gravel road . Mr. Gordon has a liberal share of
practice at the Columbia bar. His father, John B. Gordon, was in
his day one of the ablest lawyers in central Missouri. He represented
his county in the legislature for sixteen years.
WELLINGTON GORDON .
Wellington Gordon is the son of Hon . John B. and Sophia ( Haw

kins ) Gordon, and was born in Columbia , Mo., January 31st, 1838 .
His father , John B., was born in Milford , Madison county , Kentucky ,
and was educated principally at Transylvania University , of Lexing
ton , Kentucky. He studied law in the office of W. H. Caperton , of
the. Richmond bar , and was admitted to practice , forming a most
happy partnership with Col. John Speed Smith , one of Kentucky's
ablest lawyers. After a few years of successful practice he married
Miss Sophia Hawkins, daughter of Nicholas Hawkins, who had emi
grated to Kentucky from Virginia some years before — 1826. The
whole family of Gordons came to Columbia , Boone county , Missouri.
Missouri, about this time, was receiving the best class of immigrants,
and Boone county a very large proportion . Politics , being the legiti
mate , honored business of the most enlightened , soon called forth all
the energies and talents of John , who carried the county for the
Whigs , and was elected to represent Boone county in the Legislature
for five successive terms, from 1830 to 1840. It is to the eloquence
and energy of John B. Gordon that Columbia is indebted more than to
any other man for the location of the State University at Columbia .
In 1840 he returned to Kentucky , practicing his profession and lec
turing on law to the young men of the State, who came to sit at his.
feet, “ learning the law their fathers loved .” Returning to Missouri,
he retired from active praotice , and devoted his time to the instruction
of his children , who have since shown themselves worthy such a sire .
He died February 13th , 1853, ( ?) at the age of fifty -five years. He
left a family of six children , four sons and two daughters . Martha, the
eldest daughter, married Judge Robert H. Clinkscales. Ida married
Prof. Oren Root, Jr. Boyle , the oldest son , is now professor of law
in the University. Emmett, Wellington , our subject, and Carey .
Wellington was educated at the University , taking the full classical
course of four years. When a boy he was deputy circuit clerk in the
office of R. L. Todd for about fifteen months. Then he studied law in
the office of his brother Boyle , completing the course in 1859, and
opened an office in Kansas City , where he remained until the spring
of 1860. He then went to Carrollton and practiced his profession
for about a year , when he returned to Columbia , and practiced in the
office of Guitar & Gordon until 1865. In 1866 he was elected
county attorney , and served until 1872 , when he was endorsed by
an election to the office of prosecuting attorney , which office he filled
acceptably for two years. Since that time Mr. Gordon has devoted
his time and talents to his lucrative practice in conjunction with his
brother , C. H. Gordon . He was married December 13th , 1866 , to
Miss Laura Amonett, daughter of Judge James Amonett , formerly
of Virginia . Mrs. Gordon , nee Amonett, was born in Louisiana, and
at the age of thirteen removed to the city of Memphis, Tenn., where
she was living at the time of her marriage . Their union has been
blessed with five children — Kate , Reverdy, Fleetwood , Ida and
Mattie . Mr. Gordon has a fine residence in the northeastern part of
Columbia . He is regarded as an able lawyer and a thorough gen
tleman .
W. A. GOODDING .
W.A. Goodding is the son of J. C. and Elizabeth ( Dameron ).

Goodding, the former of Kentucky, the latter of North Carolina .
W. A. was born in Randolph county , Missouri, October 26th , 1846 .
His father removed to Macon in 1847. Young Goodding was educated
at the Mount Pleasant College , Huntsville , and at the Kirksville Normal
College. He returned to Randolph in 1865, and in 1872 came to
Boone county . He engaged in coalmining on a large scale at Brown's
Station . He was married December 25th , 1873 , to Martha E., daugh

ter of Lewis G. Berry , of Boone. They have four children : Nettie
E., Lena, Charlie R. and Bessie . Mr. and Mrs. Goodding are mem
bers of the Baptist church . He is a Mason , K. T., H. P. of chapter ,
also K. of P. He is also a member of A. O. U. W. He was a no
tary public for six years . His home is in Columbia . He has always
voted the Democratic ticket, and at the primaries in August , 1882,
after an animated canvass , received the nomination of his party for
sheriff by a decided majority .
GEN . ODON GUITAR .
Gen.Guitar is of French -English extraction , his father , John Guitar ,

being a native of Bordeaux , France , and his mother being of English
blood . She was a native of Kentucky, and a daughter of David
Gordon , deceased , one of Boone county's pioneers. Her given name
was Emily , and she was a niece of Chief Justice Boyle. Gen. Guitar
was born in Richmond, Madison county, Kentucky , August 31st,
1827. His parents moved to Boone county, Missouri, in 1829, bring
ing the two-year -old Odon with them to Columbia , where they located ,
and the elder Guitar did business as a merchant till his death in 1848 .
Gen. Guitar was educated wholly in Boone county , attending the
common schools till his fifteenth year , when he entered the University
of Missouri at its first opening session in 1842, and graduated in 1846
with the degree of A. B. His degree was conferred while he was on
his way to Santa Fe. He had volunteered for the Mexican war in
Col. (afterwards Gen.) Doniphan's regiment, and did not remain at
college for commencement , but left his graduating speech to be read
by a classmate . Gen. Guitar served through the entire Mexican war ,
and on his return began the study of law in the office of his uncle ,
Hon . John B. Gordon , then one of the leading members of the Mis
souri bar, and recognized as the first orator of the State at that time.
Hewas admitted to the bar in 1848 before Judge William Hall, of the
circuit court, and at once began the practice, which he prosecuted as
his chief vocation till April , 1882 . When the great civil war came
on , Gen. Guitar was Union in sentiment, and was commissioned in
May, 1862, by Gov. Gamble to recruit a regiment of volunteers for
the Federal service . This regiment was from several different coun
ties, and was mustered in as the Ninth Cavalry , M. S. M. He com
manded the regiment till his promotion in June, 1863, when he was
commissioned brigadier- general of the M. S. M., and also of the
E.M. M. Both these promotions were for gallant and meritorious

service in the field . For a.complete record of the campaigns in which
Gen. G. participated , the reader is referred to the war history depart
ment of this volume. He was the first commandant of the central
u b -district of Missouri, with headquarters at Jefferson City . After
RESIDENCE
OOLUMBIA
.GUITAR
GEN
OF
,C DON
the war , he resumed his practice in the law , and continued it at Co

lumbia till the date above mentioned . In 1853–4 , and again in
1857–8 , he represented his county in the General Assembly , having
been elected on the Whig ticket. Since the dissolution of that party,
he has been a Liberal Republican , though he has taken no active part
in politics , and has not sought either the honors or emoluments of

public trusts. Gen. Guitar was married in December, 1865, to Kate
L., youngest daughter of Judge Abiel Leonard , deceased , formerly
of Howard county . They are the parents of five children , four
daughters and one son , all of whom survive at this writing . Gen. G.
kind .. He owns several
is not a member of any lodge or society of any kind
farms in Boone county , but the principal part of his estate is in town :
property in Columbia . He is one of those citizens of prominence
who take an active interest in all public affairs and in everything per
taining to the country's welfare. While in the practice of the law
Gen. G. paid most attention to criminalcases, and defended in a large
number of homicide cases .' Only one of his clients was ever hanged ,
and but five sent to the penitentiary . The others were all acquitted ,
four of whom were saved by the adroit management of their counsel
after conviction and sentence to execution .
Altogether , the life of Gen. Odon Guitar has been a success , and
his record is one of which any man might well be proud .
HUGH M. HALL .
The subject of this notice is the son ofMortimer and Mary ( French )
Hall, and was born in Boone county , Missouri, October 5th , 1847.
When quite a child he went to live with an uncle , S. L. French , and
lived with him until he was sixteen years of age , when he commenced
teaching school and taught from 1863 until 1872. Two years of his
teaching was in Morgan county , Missouri. He then followed farming
for four years, until March , 1882, when he was appointed deputy coun
ty clerk of Boone county , which position he still retains. He had the
misfortune to lose an arm on the 12th day of October, 1861, by get
ting it crushed between the rollers of a cane-mill on the farm of J. D.
French . He was elected a justice of the peace in November, 1872 , of
Rockyfork township and served as justice for ten years. He was mar
ried September 7th , 1871, to Miss Sue T., daughter of Jackson Hern
don . By this union they have had five children , one boy and four
girls - Mary L., born September 17th , 1872 ; Carrie E., born March
26th , 1874 ; Sallie A., born April 18th , 1875 ; Hugh E., born Janu
ary 12th , 1877, and Wilmuth , born July 8th , 1879. Mr. Hall and his
wife are members of the Christian church and he is a member of the
Knights of Pythias . His father is a native of Virginia and is still liv
ing near Hallsville, Boone county. His mother is dead . Hugh was
the only child . He is one of the most efficient of Boone's county of

ficers and is a genial pleasant gentleman .
DR . E. W. HERNDON .
Dr. Eugene Wallace Herndon was born February 4th , 1836. Hewas
educated at Franklin College, Tennessee , graduating as A. B. in class
of 1852. In 1855 hereceived the degree of A.M. from the same insti
tution . Graduated at the Nashville Medical College in 1855 , being at

the time but nineteen years old . After completing his medical educa
tion he came to Clarksville, Missouri, and began the practice of his
profession . In 1859 he commenced the study of law . Took the degree
of LL . D. at Harvard University in 1861. In 1859 he began the
publication of the Pike County Union , at Clarksville , which he con
tinued until 1860. He supported Bell and Everett for president and
vice -president Dr. Herndon was a Union man at the beginning of
the war , but the violent expression of Northern sentiment caused
him to take sides with the South . He was not a “ secessionist, ” but
entered the army as a rebel. Assisted Col. Caleb Dorsey , of Pike
county, in raising a regiment for service in the Missouri State Guard .
Was appointed surgeon of this regiment. Left Pike county in De
cember, under Col. Dorsey , to join Price's army, and was in the bat
tle with Gen. Prentiss at Mt. Zion church , in this county , an account
of which may be found elsewhere in this volume. Reached the Confed
erate army at Cove Creek , where he was regularly commissioned a sur
geon by Governor Jackson and assigned to duty under Gen. Martin
Green . He was afterwards division surgeou under Gen. Parsons.
Afterthe battle of Pleasant Hill, wasmade chief surgeon of all the forces
in West Louisiana and a member of Gen. Bagley's staff. Was at
Elkhorn , Farmington , Prairie Grove, Helena , Mansfield and Pleasant
Hill. Surrendered at Shreveport, Louisiana, in the spring of 1865 and
returned to Missouri. , For the next year or two he followed farming in
Pettis county , after which he came to Columbia , where he has re
mained ever since . From 1869 to 1870 was editor of the Boone
County Journal. Dr. Herndon was married in 1865 to Miss Laura E.
Ruby, of Randolph county . She died in 1881, leaving no children .
Dr. Herndon is a Mason . He is a member of the Council , of which he
was first high priest , and also first high priest of the Chapter . He is
a member of the Christian church and is now editor of the Christian
Quarterly Review , a publication of 144 pages, and the only periodical
of the kind published in the interest of that denomination .
-
GEORGE W. HENDERSON .
George W. Henderson , son of E. F. and Catherine (Brinkman )

Henderson , was born in St. Louis , March 10 , 1847. Was educated
at the public schools of St. Louis . Commenced his business career
in 1857, clerking in a candy store in St. Louis . In 1859, he clerked
for John Barnhurst , of St. Louis, in a dry goods store, continuing
thus until 1869, when Barnhurst moved his store to Columbia , Mis
souri, and Mr. Henderson came with him and remained in his em
ployment until the latter part of 1870 , when he went into the grocery
business under the firm name of Gentry & Henderson . Continued
the business thus for about seventeen months when he took William
T. Shock into partnership , under the firm name of Shock & Hender
son . The business was conducted thus for about two years , then
changed to Henderson , Shock & Co., and so remained until 1876 ,
when Mr. Henderson sold out his interest to Lafayette Hume. In
June, 1876 , he became one of the proprietors of the Columbia Mills ,
his partners being Messrs. Anderson and Smith . In 1878 the firm
changed to Anderson , Henderson & Co., and so remained until Feb
ruary 6 , 1882 . As a business man Mr. Henderson has few equals ,
and perhaps no superior in this section of the country . He com
menced life without anything, and has by energy, and good manage
ment accumulated a handsome estate , and this too in a brief period of
time. His father is living in Columbia at the age of sixty -five years.
His mother died in 1875. He is one of six children , five sons and one
daughter, all of whom are living but one son , who died in childhood .
The subject of this sketch is the youngest of the family . Mr. Hen
derson was married September 10 , 1874 , to Miss Mary , daughter of
Judge Henry and Mary (Depew ) Dusenberry . They have one son ,
Benjamin E. Mr. and Mrs. Henderson are members of the Meth
odist Church South . He is also a member of the Masonic fraternity .
COL . JOHN J. HICKMAN .
Col. Hickman is known to the entire West as one of the greatest

temperance advocates living. He was born in Lexington , Kentucky,
May 26 , 1839, his parents - Hon . James L. Hickman and wife —
being also natives of Kentucky. The family was originally from Vir
ginia , and the colonel's father was a gallant soldier of the war of
1812 . Thomas Metcalfe, uncle of John J.'s mother, was governor of
Kentucky from 1828 to 1832. Col. H. received his earlier education
56
in the city of his birth , and after the death of his father (which oc
cured while John was still quite young ) , he went with his mother ( a
refined lady of the true American type ) to southern Kentucky, where
at the early age of nineteen , he was married to Miss Lizzie Hollings
worth , a lady one year younger than himself, and every way worthy
of so distinguished a husband . In early married life he engaged in
agricultural pursuits, afterwards studying law and medicine, but
abandoned his professional studies at the commencement of the war .
After the war he engaged in the life and fire insurance business of
which he made an eminent success, always commanding the highest
salaries . In May, 1867, he joined the South Carrollton Lodge No. 20 ,
and at once became an active worker in the temperance cause . Soon
afterwards he was commissioned State deputy with headquarters at
Louisville and did valiant service. In October , 1868 , he was himself
elected G. W. C. T., and quit a lucrative employment to devote his
entire time to the work of the order. He held the office three succes
sive years , and retired with the gratification of knowing that under
his administration the order had increased from 3,000 members
with sixty working lodges , to 25,000 members with more than 500
working lodges . In one of these years, he organized 100 lodges with
a chartered membership of more than 4,000 , besides adding thousands
to the lodges already established . He first entered the Right Worthy
Grand Lodge at its Oswego , N. Y., session in May , 1869, and imme
diately took rank as a representative Good Templar , and was ap
pointed R. W. Grand Marshal. At Baltimore he was elected R. W.
G. Counsellor , and unanimously reëlected at the Madison session in
May , 1872. He did not attend the London session in 1873, but was
elected R.W.G. T. the next year at the Boston session . He was
reëlected in 1875 , and yet again in 1876 , and in the latter year was
sent as a “ missionary ” to Great Britain , where he spent several
months reorganizing the Grand Lodges of England, Ireland, Scot
land , Wales, and the Isle of Man . On his return , he declined a re
nomination at the Portland session , in 1877, and was succeeded by
Theo . D. Kanouse , of Wisconsin , who retired after two years, and
Col. Hickman was again elected R. W. G. T. He is the second man
who has been recalled to that high office , after having gone out of it
for any reason .
Col. Hickman is beyond question , the best known citizen , person
ally , of Boone county , his reputation as a temperance worker being
world -wide , and his personal acquaintance being enjoyed by many
eminent tenperance people of Europe. His presence is cum
inanding , and is of that easy dignity that invariably bespeaks a born

gentleman . He is recognized by all as one of the greatest temperance
orators living, and he certainly merits the full measures of the distinc
tion to which he has attained . His family consists of his wife and two
sons — James K. and Newton H. James K. married Miss Anna
Woods , daughter of Adam Woods, of Howard county . Col. Hickman
is now a citizen of Columbia , and is as zealous and untiring in the
temperance cause as in the days of his earlier manhood .
Great in heart, deed, and morals, Columbia should be proud that
he is numbered with the other distinguished citizens of the “ Athens
of Missouri. "
COL . ELI HODGE .
Col. Eli Hodge was born in Montgomery county , Kentucky, Octo

her 28th , 1839 , and came with his father to Boone county in 1857 .
He followed farming until 1861, when he cast his fortunes with the
South , joining Peacher's company of what was then known as the
Missouri State Guard . He enlisted as a private and participated in
the battles of Drywood and Lexington . In the spring of 1862
became adjutant of Col. Gid . Thompson's regiment . Was in the
Lone Jack fight and at Elkhorn , where he was wounded in the thigh .
Took part in the battle of Prairie Grove, where his horse was shot .
Was at Springfield , Cape Girardeau and Hartville, and in fact all the
battles in which Gen. Joe Shelby took part . In the fall of 1864 came
into Boone, Audrain and Howard recruiting for Confederate service .
At Waverly was placed in command of 485 men and started for
Price's army, but failed to join it on the retreat from Independence .
He went in a southwest direction . En route was attacked by Feder
als at Cassville , where he lost 150 men , killed , captured and missing .
Finally reached the Confederate army at Clarksville , Texas. On the
reorganization of Col.D. Williams' regiment he was made a lieutenant
colonel. When the army disbanded he was at Corsicana, Texas .
Hewent into Old Mexico , where he stayed for three years. Returned
to Boone county in 1868. In 1874 was elected collector . On assum
ing the duties of this office, removed to Columbia where he still re
sides. Served two years as collector . Was a member of the board
of trustees for two years and a school director when the new school
house was contracted for . Col. Hodge was married September 1 ,
1868, to Mary L. Craig , a native of Virginia , but at the time of her
inarriage a resident of Boone county . They have had five children ,
884 HISTORY OF BOONE COUNTY . .
four of whom are now living . Col. Hodge is a member of the Masonic
order , a K. P., A. O. U.W.and K. of H. He is also a member of
the Baptist church . Mrs. Hodge is a Presbyterian .
C. C. HOPPER .
This gentleman , the senior member of the firm of C. C. Hopper &

Co., dealers in groceries, provisions , etc., Columbia , is a son of James
E. and Mary (Herrington ) Hopper, and was born in Boone county ,
November 13, 1842. His parents were natives of Madison county ,
Kentucky, born in 1818 ; his father, James Hopper , Jr., is still living
on his farm , five miles south of Columbia ; his mother died in 1877.
On his father's side Mr. Hopper is of Irish descent, and his immediate
ancestors were among the pioneers of this county . His grandfather ,
James Hopper, Jr., was a native of Kentucky, and came to Boone
about the year 1824 .
C. C. Hopper was raised on his father's farm and received a good
common school education . At the age of twenty -one he started in
life for himself, first working for James McConathy, the noted Boone
county miller and distiller. Two years later he bought a farm , six
miles south of Columbia , on which he lived some ten years , when he
came to Columbia and engaged in the grocery and drug trade. After
following this business some three years, he abandoned it on account
of failing health and returned to his farm . In 1879 he again came to
Columbia and , after running a meat market for about a year , he en
gaged in his present business. He still owns his farm , however .
October 22 , 1863, Mr. Hopper married Miss Annie Groom , a native
of Boone county , and a daughter of James and Maria (Payne) Groom ,
of Kentucky. Mr. and Mrs. Hopper are the parents of six living
children , viz . : Robert , William , Virginia , Ida Lenoir, James Hender
son and John Bingham . Mr. and Mrs. H. are both members of the
Methodist church , and Mr. H. belongs to the Knights of Honor.
COL . MAJOR HORNER , DECEASED .
Was born in Chesterfield county , Virginia , December 29, 1787.

His parents were agricultural people , and he was reared on the farm .
In 1812 he was married to Miss Keturah Morgan , near Richmond ,
and soon afterwards moved to that city , where he engaged in the
manufacture of barrels for the large flouring mills there . While liv
ing in Virginia he served in the war of 1812 , in the commissary de
partment. In 1819 he moved to Howard county , Missouri, and
bought a farm eight miles east of Fayette , and remained there 20

years , next removing to Randolph county and locating three miles
east of Huntsville , on which farm he remained till 1864 , when he
moved to St. Louis . Remaining there two years, he next moved to

Columbia , Boone county , where he remained until his death . He
died March 8 , 1867, while on a visit to his son , James S. Horner ,
of Huntsville , being in his seventy -ninth year . After coming to Mis
souri he enlisted in the militia for the purpose of repelling some In
dian attacks in Missouri. He was colonel of the militia in Howard
county for eight years, and on leaving was succeeded by Col. Joe
Davis . In 1838 , during the Mormon war, he was appointed pay
master by Gov. Boggs , with the rank of colonel. In paying off the
troops, after payment was made, his clerk informed him that a con
siderable amount remained to his credit on account of the odd cents
not being paid to the soldiers on settlement. Col. Horner instantly
directed the clerk to return it to the State treasury , which was done,
being the only instance of the kind on record , and fully exemplifying
the character and integrity of the man . He was also appointed to
pay off the Missouri troops after the Black Hawk war . He served
one term in the State legislature , and was a member of the State
senate when the civil war came up, and was among the number who
repaired to Neosho pursuant to the call of Gov. Jackson . Though a.
pronounced Southern man in his feelings , he was too old to take any
active part in the war . On account of his sympathies he was com
pelled to leave his farm and move to St. Louis .
Col. Horner became the father of ten children , five sons and five
daughters , eight of whom lived to be grown : Sarah A. E., Edward
B., John P., Lucy J., Fannie H., Laura R., James S., and Rebecca
J. Only Sarah , John P. and Lucy J. are living at this writing , and
all reside in Columbia . John P. Horner is one of the most substan
tial business men of the county , and has held several important offi
cial and political trusts since his residence here . He is a leading
Democrat , and one of the most efficient members of the M. E. Church
South . Col. Major H.was also an active member of the same church ,
having united therewith when about twenty years of age . He was
likewise a Democrat, prominent in politics , and so rigid a temperance
man that from the age of twenty -five years , he never so much as tasted
liquor even for medical purposes. He was one of the earliest curators
of the University , and assisted in selecting the site on which the
lunatic asylum is located at Fulton , and participated in laying the
corner stone of that institution . At one time he was one of the county
court judges of Randolph county, which , like all other trusts, he
discharged faithfully . He lies buried at the family burying ground
at Sugar Creek church , in Randolph county, having passed a life
of honor of which his children and friends may ever speak with
pride and gratitude.
DR . NEWTON HOCKENSMITH .
Dr. Hockensmith is a son of Newton and Jane ( Palmer ) Hocken

smith , and was born June 18 , 1846, in Independence , Jackson
county , Missouri . His father was a native of Jessamine county ,
Kentucky . He first settled at Richmond , Ray county , Missouri,
and from there he moved to Independence , Missouri. His mother ,
Jane Palmer, was a daughter of Elder Frank Palmer, a noted
divine, and a member of the board of curators of the State Uni
versity . She was also a neice of ex -Gov . Robinson, of Kentucky .
When the cholera scourged Independence so terribly in 1852, Dr.
Hockensmith's family were sorely stricken , himself, wife and one daugh
ter dying of that dread disease within forty -eight hours. He was a
leading physician of Independence. By their marriage they had four
children , three boys and one girl, none of whom are living save our
subject, who was the second child . Dr. Hockensmith has a thorough
education - going first to the Dover High School, Liberty High School,
Missouri ; Westminster College at Fulton , Missouri, and at the Ken
tucky University , Lexington , Kentucky . While at Lexington he
studied for the ministry , and was ordained to preach in the Christian
Church at Independence , Missouri. He preached occasionally at
Kansas City , but his first regular charge was at Plattsburg , Missouri,
where he remained two years. He then came to Columbia , and did
evangelical work in Boone, Callaway and Howard counties, practicing
dentistry when not actively engaged in his nobler work . While liv
ing at Independence he studied medicine under Dr. Bryant, father of
President George S. Bryant, of Chrisitian College, Columbia , Mis
souri. He attended one session of the medical department of the
State University in 1873 and 1874 , and has been practicing dentistry
for three years in Columbia . He enjoys a large and remunerative
practice , and is a gentleman in the fullest sense . He was married
November 1 , 1866 , to Miss Jennie , daughter of Samuel and Martha
( Jeffries ) Watson , of Callaway county , Missouri. By this union they
have had four children , two boys and two girls. Frank (deceased ),
Rowena , Fannie and Watson . He is one of the leaders of the Chris

tian Church at Columbia , and is also president of the board of county
commissioners of Boone county.
PROF . WILLIAM P. HURT . '
Prof. William P. Hurt is a native of Montgomery county, Ken

tucky, where he was born November 22 , 1824. His parents, John
P. and Elizabeth (Pebworth ) Hurt, moved to Sangamon county ,
Illinois , in 1839 , but did not remain there but one year , when they
returned to Montgomery county , Kentucky , where the subject of this
sketch received such education as the common school could impart .
At the age of eighteen he taught school in Clark county , Kentucky.
In 1844–45 , attended school at the Highland Institute, Mount Ster
ling , Kentucky. In 1846 he resumed teaching in his native county .
In the summer of that year he enlisted in the Mexican war, in Com
pany I, Second regiment , Kentucky volunteers . He volunteered as
a private , but was elected
a sergeant . Was in the battle of Buena
Vista , and was mustered out of service , June 9th , 1847, at New Or
leans. He returned to his native county and resumed teaching, con
tinuing in this business until 1849. He was married June 9th , 1849,
to Miss Kitty Ann , daughter of David and Rebecca ( Jackson ) Bru
ton . They have had seven children , two sons and five daughters .
He taught school in his native county until 1850 , when he moved to
Greencastle , Indiana, where he taught one year. Returning to
Montgomery county , he continued to teach until 1852, when he
moved to Boone county , Missouri, and settled near Hallgville . His
father-in -law , David Bruton , accompanied him . He taught in the
country until the year following, when he was engaged as professor
of mathematics in Christian College, Columbia , Missouri. He held
this position for two years . This was during the presidency of John
A. Williams. In 1855 he was engaged as principal of Prairie Insti
tute , Audrain county , Missouri, which position he held for two years .
In 1857 returned to Christian College , and taught mathematics for
one year , under President Wilkes . From 1858 to 1877, taught under
President Rogers . He was also a partner with the president from
1871 to 1876. In 1878 , was associated with President Bryant in con
ducting the institution . At the close of the collegiate year he retired ,
and has not taught any since . He recently traded his town property
to F. Wilcox , for a farm five miles east of Columbia .
DR . PAUL HUBBARD .
Dr. Paul Hubbard , the subject of this sketch , is the son of Moses
and Abigail ( Titus) Hubbard , of Schoharie county , New York , where
he was born , August 14th , 1818. He was educated in his native
county ,attending Schoharie Academy;afterwards graduating at themed
ical college of Castleton , Vermont. He practiced his profession in
Windham Center , New York , for ten years, afterwards at Albany ,
New York , for a short period. November 24th , 1841, he was married
to Miss Elizabeth M., daughter of Peter Dominick . By this marriage
they had three children , two sons and one daughter : Lorenzo Dom
inick , who died at the age of nine years, and Socrates , now an officer
in the United States navy , with commission of lieutenant-commander .
His vessel is connected with the South American fleet. He entered
the navy in 1861 and is esteemed one of the best educated and most
-
competent officers in the service . Hewas born March 18th , 1844. Min
nie E., their only daughter , was born November 24th , 1849. She was
married , November 29th , 1871 , to PaulWaples, and is now living in
Sherman , Texas. The first wife having died June 8th , 1879 , Dr.
Hubbard was again married August 25th , 1880 , to Mrs. Lucy B.
Shields ( nee Field ) , widow of William C. Shields, formerly profes
sor of ancient languages in the Missouri State University . Dr.
Hubbard came to Columbia in the fall of 1854 , having previously
spent several years in California , where he was assistant surgeon of
the marine hospital, his brother, Lorenzo ,being resident surgeon . On
arriving in Columbia he commenced the practice of his profession
- dentistry - which he has followed most of the time since . He ac
quired the theoretical part of his profession at Philadelphia Dental
College, in Philadelphia , Pennsylvania, but long practice and careful
study has added greatly to his skill as a practitioner , and he has
now perhaps no superior in the country . He was military surgeon
for three years during the war, with headquarters at Columbia ; was
also surgeon of Gen. J. B. Douglass' command . He was State Sen
ator in 1867 and 1868. While a member of the legislature he

introduced the bill providing for the establishment of a normal
department in connection with the State University ; also a bill pro
viding for the repairing of the president's mansion and the University
building, and , with Mr. Spaunhorst, representative from St. Louis ,
drafted and put through a bill requiring that one and three -fourths of
seventy -five per cent of the State revenue be appropriated to the Uni
versity . The bill passed and the University received from $ 10,000
to $ 12,000 a year . Dr. Hubbard was a curator of the University
from 1867 to 1877 , and was business agent of the institution from
1871 to 1877. Has held the position of United States pension sur
geon since the war, but resigned because it interfered with his profes
sional duties . He was city recorder in 1857, or 1858. Before
coming to Missouri, was coroner of Green county , New York , for
four years; also school commissioner for the town ofWright, Schoharie
county , New York . In 1880 he bought a farm of fifty acres in the
suburbs of Columbia , which he has improved until it is now one
of the handsomest homesteads in Boone county . He has an office
for the practice of dentistry at his home, where he is prepared to
do all kinds of work in his line .
J. P. HUBBELL .
The subject of this sketch was born in Georgetown, Kentucky, June

4th , 1825. He moved with his fatber, Capt. W. D. Hubbell, to
Howard county in 1839. Captain Hubbell was an old steamboat
man , having gone on the river as early as 1818. Was clerk of the
first steamer that ever passed up the Mississippi river above Old
Franklin . This
This was
was in 1819..
in 1819 In 1841 J. P. Hubbell went to Lib
erty , Missouri. In 1849 he went into business as a member of the
firm of Hubbell & Brothers , and continued in this business until the
war broke out. He then moved to Ray county , where he remained
until the war closed , taking no part in the struggle . In 1865 he
went to Carrollton , Illinois, where he remained until the fall of 1868,
when he came to Columbia , Missouri, where he has resided ever
since, engaging in the drug, livery and dry goods business.. In 1881,
became a member of the firm of Hubbell, White & Co. Mr. Hubbell
was married November 20th , 1849, to Miss Ann Maria , daughter of
Thomas M. Morton , a native of Kentucky. The town of Morton ,
Ray county , Missouri, was named in honor of Mrs. Hubbell . They
have three daughters and two sons living . Two of the daughters are
graduates of Christian College. Anna M. is the wife of J. B. John
son , of St. Joseph,Missouri. Mr. and Mrs. Hubbell are members of
the Christian Church . Finley D., a promising youth is with his
father in the store . Mr. Hubbell is an active business man , and not
withstanding some bad luck — he had a security debt of $ 5,000 to
pay about the close of the war — has prospered in all his undertak
ings .
LAFAYETTE HUME ..
Lafayette Hume, for many years a prominent business man and

farmer of Boone county , is the son of Lewis and Henrietta (McBain )
Hume, of Madison county , Kentucky . They came to Missouri in
1819 and settled six miles south of Columbia , on the Providence road .
He died December 24th , 1874 , aged sixty -nine years . He is buried .
on the home place . Mrs. Hume is a native of Maryland . She is.
now living, at the age of eighty -two. Lafayette Hume was born in
Boone county , July 18th , 1834 , and was reared on the farm and edu
cated at the common schools , attending what was then known as the
Pace district school, six miles south of Columbia . He is one of a
family of six children , five sons and one daughter. He was married ,
May 26th , 1857, to Miss Lemira Ann , daughter of G.L. and Sallie
(Sims) Hickam . Six children have been born to them , five sons and
one daughter . Mr. Hume commenced business in Columbia , on
Court -house street, in 1849, dealing in dry goods and general mer
chandise . He continued in this business for sixteen years . During
this period he passed safely through several panics that brought dis
aster and ruin to thousands . The firm consisted of Lafayette , Reuben
and. James R. Hume, brothers of the subject of this sketch . In the
midst of the war they closed out their business . At the close of the
war , Mr. Hume, in company with Allen Park , deceased , opened a
store under the firm name of Hume & Park , which they continued
for three or four years . In 1868 he dissolved partnership with Mr.
Park and opened a general grocery house for himself, conducting this
business until 1876 , when he took in W. T. Shock and George W.
Henderson as partners , the firm name being Henderson , Shock & Co.
Continued with this firm four years , then returned to his old stand on
Court-house street, where he opened a grocery - store under the firm
name of Hume & Brother. His extensive acquaintance and popularity
as a business man has already brought to the new firm a large and
profitable trade. The subject of this sketch has been in business for
thirty -three years and has never failed nor seen the day that he could
not satisfy all business demands against him , dollar for dollar. For
the last twenty -two years he has owned several fine farms, which he
runs in connection with his other business . The home place , upon
which his family now resides , contains 320 acres. It is situated two
miles west of Columbia . He owns another farm of 235 acres , four
and one-half miles southwest of Columbia . The third farm , consiste
-
ing of 160 acres, is located five and one-half miles southeast of Co

lumbia , making in all 715 acres of excellent land, well improved and
in a high state of cultivation . Mr. Hume is an Odd Fellow and a
member of the Christian church . Mrs. Hume and one son , George,
are also members of the same church . Mr. Hume has been town
trustee for ten years, and treasurer of his lodge for four or five years .
He was in the Columbia and Centralia stage at the time of its capture
by Bill Anderson , on the day of the massacre , of which he was an
eye -witness. There were with him at the time Maj. Rollins, James
Waugh , Boyle Gordon and several others from Columbia . He lost
one hundred and forty dollars in cash and an overcoat'valued at forty
dollars .
JOSEPH JAMES IGLEHART .
Prof. Joseph J. Iglehart, principal of the Columbia public school, is

the son of Dr. Joseph and Mary ( Welling ) Iglehart, and was born
near Clarksville, Howard county , Maryland , August 5 , 1841. He was
raised in his native county , and after taking a full course at the pub
lic schools of his neighborhood , entered White Hall Academy, near
Harrisburg , Cumberland county , Pennsylvania , intending to complete a
course of studies at Dickinson College, preparatory to entering upon
the duties of his medical profession , but the breaking out of the war
changed all his plans for the future . From 1865 to 1867 he taught
the public school in his native district . In 1867 he emigrated to the
West. Spent one year teaching in Illinois and one in Iowa. He came
to Missouri in 1869, and settled in Washington , Franklin county ,
where he held the position of principal of the public schools for
two years, during which time, and mainly through his individual ef
forts , he influenced the building of one of the finest public school edi
fices in the State. In 1873 he was appointed to the position ofprofessor
of English in the German Institute of St. Louis, a position previously
occupied by the famous Gen. Franz Sigel. In 1874 he moved to
Linn county , where he followed teaching until 1876 ,when he received
the appointment of principal of Prairie high school of Monroe county .
In 1879 he took charge of the Ashland public school , in Boone county ,
Missouri, and here , as at all other points , he met with excellent suc
cess . In 1880 he was elected principal of Columbia public school ,
which position he has held ever since . Of his management, since
taking charge of this school, there has been no complaint, but much
praise . He is certainly one of the most popular teachers that ever
had charge of the Columbia public school, and has given a lively im
petus to the cause of public instruction within the sphere of his own
labors. Mr. Iglehart was married at Washington , Missouri, in 1871,
to Miss Sue, daughter of Jilson and Eveline Payne. They have two
daughters, May and Kittie. Mrs. Iglehart is also an excellent teacher.
She has met with great success in the primary department . She is
now assistant in the Columbia public school. Prof. Iglehart ranks
very high as an inventor, having originated and patented a lock at
tachment for the school desk , piano tops , etc. A company has been
organized and a manufactory put in operation at New Haven , Connec
ticut, and agents put on the road for the purpose of introducing this
invention into all parts of the country . Prof. Iglehart is preparing a
grammar which will be ready for publication in 1883.
JAMES E. JOHNSON .
James E. Johnson , son of William and Elizabeth ( Entrekin ) John

son , was born in Scott county , Kentucky, January 26 , 1809 . He was
educated at the common schools of the county . At the age of
eighteen he entered an apprentice under Job Stevenson to learn the
saddle and harness maker's trade. After finishing his trade he came
to Boone county , Missouri, October 22 , 1833. The year following he
worked for George Harrison at Franklin , Howard county , Missouri.
Coming back to Columbia , he was employed to work in James Rich
ardson's shop and continued with him for eight years. In the summer
of 1841 he started a shop of his own , and has worked continuously at
his trade ever since , except a portion of the year 1850 , spent in Cali
fornia. At the breaking out of the war he owned several slaves.
Their loss proved a severe blow to him financially . Mr. Johnson was
married , December 2 , 1841, to Miss Sallie , daughter of Judge Alex
ander and Ann (Simpson ) Persinger. Six children were born of
this marriage, three sons and three daughters. Mrs. Johnson died
August 27 , 1870 , and is buried in the Columbia cemetery . Mr. John
son has an excellent business, and by industry and good management
he has succeeded in accumulating considerable property, mostly real
estate , situated in Columbia . He is a member of the Christian
church . His children are also members of the same church .
MAXIMILIAN G. KERN .
Prof. Kern is a native of Stuttgart , Germany. and was born in 1825 .

His father , Prof. Christian G. Kern , occupied the chair of theology
in the University of Wurtemburg . Maximilian G. was educated at
the Botanical Gardens and University of Tubingen , and was em

ployed in the King's gardens and conservatories near Stuttgart for
two years. He then travelled through Belgium , Holland ,Germany, and
also went to France , and was three years in the “ Garden of Plants,” in
Paris , St. Louis and Versailles. During the revolution of 1848, he
and some friends were in Versailles ; and hearing the cannonading at
Paris, they went up into that city and were on the streets during the
fighting between the soldiers and communists, having to remain in
the city nineteen hours before they got out again . In July , 1848 , he
cameto America , landing at New York City , where he took charge
of the grounds and gardens of a wealthy merchant, with whom he
remained nine months. Going next to Cincinnati, he remained four
years engaged in horticulture and landscape gardening . Here he
learned the English language , and in 1853 , published a book on land
scape gardening. He next accepted a position to teach that subject
for the faculty of Farmers' College ,near Cincinnati, where he remained
till, in 1857, he came West, and located at Alton , Illinois, and open
ed a fruit farm and nursery in 1858. For several years succeeding
his services were called into requisition in decorating the floral hall
of the St. Louis Fair . He superintended the decoration of the Sani
tary Fair in St. Louis in 1864, and drew a complimentary testimo
nial from Gen. Rosencrans , the commandant of that department .
He was then engaged by the commissioners of Lafayette Park
to take charge of that resort. He continued to reside at the park for
several years , from 1864 , and designed the present ornamentation and
improvements of that beautiful place . This secured bim the ap
pointment by Mayor Brown of general superintendent of parks,

which position he held four years. He designed the grounds of Ben
ton park , Laclede park , Washington square, Missouri park , St. Louis.
place and Hyde park . Next he was appointed general superintend
ent of Forest park , which he held two years, laying out the grounds
of that enchanting retreat . After this he laid out two cemeteries
in St. Louis and one at Chattanooga , Tennessee. He also did deco
ration work of a similar nature at Rome, Atlanta , Columbus and other
places in the South . ' In 1881 Prof. Kern came to Columbia , and has
since that time been connected , in his professional capacity , with the
State University . He was married in Cincinnati, in 1852 , to Miss
Elizabeth Pinger. They have had eight children , four ofwhom , Min
nie , Julia , Ida and May , are living, and four, Ernest, David , Free
man and Henrietta , are deceased . The surviving children are all at
home, and the three youngest attend the University .
SIMEON BEAUFORD KIRTLEY .
S. B. Kirtley , one of Columbia's most popular and enterprising

merchants , is the only son of Wm . Cave and Letitia Gray Kirtley ,
whose maiden name was Givens, both natives of Kentucky. The
subject of this sketch was born in Audrain county , Missouri, and
was reared to manhood in that county , receiving his education at
Mexico and the university of Kentucky. Leaving college at the age
of twenty - one, he entered the Savings bank at Mexico , Missouri, as
clerk and book -keeper. He remained in this business for about two
years . In the fall of 1874 he came to Columbia , Missouri, and
opened a store for the sale of books, stationery and notions. He
also acted as general agent for the Singer Sewing Machine Company
for Boone county , which position he held for about two years, selling
during this time over twelve thousand dollars ' worth of machines.
His business increased rapidly , necessitating his removal to a larger
building. He now occupies two store rooms on University street,
using one of the upper apartments for manufacturing picture frames ,
etc., having a large trade in this line as well as in the other special
ties of his business. He has one of the largest book stores in Cen
tral Missouri, selling by wholesale and retail. In connection with
books, pictures and notions, he opened a large stock of musical in
struments in 1878 , including some of the finest pianos and organs
ever sold in the Western market . Among these may be mentioned
the following pianos : Decker Brothers , Haines Brothers , Fischer ,
Chickering, Mathushek and Story & Camp. His organs are manu
factured by Estey and Story & Camp. He does a large business in
the above line, selling all over Boone and the adjoining counties .
He has all the popular sheet music , and deals in all kinds of mu
sical repairs . One of the lower store rooms is devoted to the sale
of books, the other to the sale of musical instruments, Mr. Kirtley
is the youngest child and only son of a family of six children , two of
whom died in infancy. William C. Kirtley , father of S. B. Kirtley ,
moved from Harrison county , Kentucky, to Boone county , Missouri,
in November, 1845. In April, 1847, he removed to Audrain county,
where he has resided ever since . The subject hereof is thoroughly
identified with the best interests of his town and county .
HON . J. W. KNEISLEY .
James William Kneisley was born in Shenandoah county , Virginia ,

April 16 , 1825 , and there grew to manhood, receiving his education
at the common schools and at Strasburg academy. In 1854 he re
moved to Marion county , Missouri, locating at Palmyra . This was
his home until 1866 , when he removed to Jefferson City , and from
thence to Columbia about the close of the year 1867, where he has
since resided . Capt . Kneisley's chief occupation in life has been
that of a carpenter and builder. He was apprenticed to the carpen
ter's trade in early life, when possessed of ample means, and at a
time when it was not dreamed that a resort to it would ever become
necessary . He is regarded as a thoroughly excellent workman .
In the summer of 1861, upon the breaking out of the war between
the States, Capt . Kneisley espoused the cause of the South , and
enlisted in the Missouri State Guard , as captain of “ Kneisley's Bat
tery ," which he commanded until the close of hostilities, although
he was in the State of Illinois, on important private business, when
his commander, Gen. E. Kirby Smith , surrendered . During his
term of service the captain participated in the engagements at Mon
roe City , Athens, Shelbina and Lexington , Missouri ; Elk Horn
(Pea Ridge ) and Prairie Grove, Arkansas ; Mansfield and Pleasant
Hill, Louisiana . In these actions he was present with his battery .
On Price's last raid into Missouri, in the fall of 1864 , he was present as
a volunteer in the most important engagements. In the early spring
of 1865 he made his way from his command , then in Southern Ar
kansas, to Illinois, to care for his children and other private affairs,
and after a perilous and adventurous journey worthy of record in a
separate volume, reached his destination in safety . As before stated ,
he was in Illinois when hostilities entirely ceased .
President Buchanan appoined Capt. Kneisley to be postmaster at
Palmyra , and he held that position upon the outbreak of the war. Iu
1878 hewas elected representative from this county to the State Legis
lature, and in 1880 was reëlected , running on the Democratic ticket
each time. He is a member of the Committee on the State University ,
and has done a great deal of valuable work for that important institu
tion ,
Capt. K. has been twice married . His first wife was Miss Sophia
McCloud, to whom he was married January 11, 1848. She died Sep
tember 25 , 1864. His second marriagewas to Mrs.Martha Phelps , and
occurred April 13 , 1867. He is the father of six children , three of

whom have attained maturity . In politics the captain is a Democrat ;
in religion a Presbyterian ; in all things honorable and upright.
SAMUEL SPAHR LAWS, A. B., A. M., M. D., D. D., LL. D.
Dr. Laws, president of the Missouri State University , is a descend

ant of one of two brothers , who came over from England in 1672 ,
and settled in Maryland . He is a native of the Old Dominion where
he received the rudiments of an education in the " Oldfield school. ”
He afterwards entered MiamiUniversity , where he graduated valedic
torian of his class. Entering Princeton Seminary , he there pursued
his theological studies for three years , completing the course and
receiving the first honors of his class. He began his ministerial
career in St. Louis , but was soon called to the church in Lexington ,
Missouri, but before accepting this charge , he was elected president of
Westminster College , Fulton , Missouri, and at once assumed the
duties and responsibilities of that position . His administration was
prosperous and highly satisfactory to the patrons of that institution .
When the late civil war broke out he resigned , and applied himself to
the quiet and congenial task of translating Aristotle. While in the
midst of his labors, he was arrested , and taken to prison by the Union
authorities, on account of his Southern proclivities. After being
confined in several prisons, and suffering great hardships, he was
finally released on parole, to remain in the loyal States, Canada and
Europe , which latter country he visited , remaining some time, princi
pally at Paris, availing hinself of this opportunity of acquiring a
thorough knowledge of the French language . He returned to the
United States while the war was yet in progress, landing in New
York , where he had relatives in business . He was there made vice
president of the Gold Exchange, which office he filled very acceptably .
The institution prospered so remarkably under his management that
the directory presented him with a handsome testimonial, and a cer
tificate of membership , a compliment never conferred upon another .
After resigning his office at the Gold Exchange, Dr. Laws perfected
an instrument for telegraphing the variations in the prices of gold and
stocks, which is now. extensively used at home and abroad. By this
invention ten thousand instruments can be simultaneously operated ,
and the value of coin and stocks communicated at the same moment to
each business house in the city where used . During his stay in New
York City , he availed himself of the opportunities there offered for
-
- --
!
scientific and literary research , at the same time pursuing courses of

professional study, graduating in both law and medicine . He is at
present a member of the New York bar. His medical thesis attracted
no little attention , and became the theme ofmuch favorable comment.
Dr. Laws is a man of medium height , solidly built, and is in the prine
of fresh , vigorous manhood . The nervous , sanguine temperament
predominates in bis disposition , but is well blended with the bilivus
and phlegmatic, giving him great vitality of action and thought. This
combination of forces has given Dr. Laws a mind thoroughly poised ,
which avoids harshness in judgment, and extremes in action ; works
calmly and systematically , and is capable of great excitement, on
supremeoccasions. He has all those qualities that thoroughly indi
vidualize a man, and is a most decided type of himself. While ambi
tious of distinction and approval, he is far too manly a man to desire
them at the expense of his own convictions of right and truth , and is
capable of the most heroic self-sacrifice for an opinion , which has the
sanction of his own deliberate judgment. He is one of the best
informed men of the age, having accumulated vast stores of infornia
tion in all departments of knowledge , and is ever ready with facts and
dates , no matter what the subject under consideration , his memory
being simply prodigious. As a general scholar, President Laws has
no superior in the West , and this is the more notable as his habit
of exhaustive study makes every so -called general topic special.
His travels in Europe gave him the advantage of intercourse with
the ripest scholarship of that continent, and he always availed himself
of every opportunity to verify his facts and statements by undisputed
authority . As a metaphysician , Dr. Laws stands in the front rank of
American minds ; his rare attainments and exceptional talents are
universally conceded ; his features express great executive ability and
as acquaintance ripens the conviction deepens that, as the head of
some great corporation , or as chairman of a committee on home or
foreign affairs , he would have acquitted himself with no less distinc
tion than in his present most honorable and responsible office . His
position at the head of our State University is, without controversy ,
the most important position in the commonwealth , and Missouri is to
be congratulated that here, where the largest measures of ability ,
scholarship and executive talent are demanded , they are so eminently
combined . Before the Missouri legislature, in 1877 , Dr. Laws
pointed out the fact, which was long lost sight of, that the University
was an integral part of the public school organization , established by
57
law and imbedded in the successive constitutions of the State . It

was one of the fundamental conditions of Missouri's admission to
the Union , that her general assembly should take measures for the
improvement of public lands for the support of a university . For
this service to the State , Dr. Laws merits the thaoks of all lovers of
a generous system of education . Strength and gentleness are by no
means disassociated in President Laws. He is a thorough gentleman
in all the relations of life , and one every way worthy to be intrusted
with the formation of manners as well as mind . His personal exam
ple and influence cannot but be advantageous to those who enjoy the
benefit of association with him , for hy no means the least of his gifts
is the transcendent power of personal quality . The firmness and can
dor displayed by Dr. Laws in the late controversy growing out of
his address delivered before the Press Association , at St. Joseph ,
Missouri, is not only characteristic of the man , but creditable to his
judgment and manhood. Standing upon constitutional grounds, and
speaking for the millions he represented , and of a people whom it had
become popular and convenient to malign and ridicule , he but uttered
a truth as old as the constitution itself. He simply affirmed that ,
prior to the civil war, according to the compact entered into by the
several States composing the Federal Union , the question of secession
was an open one, having two sides ; that in fighting for the sovereignty
of the States , as guaranteed to him and his people in the fundamental
law of the land , Gen. Lee was no more a traitor in the eyes of law and
justice than was Gen. Washington , the hero of American independence .
This address , which was simply a philosophical, dispassionate review of
the question of State's rights , called down upon the devoted head of
Dr. Laws the fiercest wrath of those who snuff treason at thebare men
tion of State's rights. They have railed at the president for months,
showing by their zealous rage that the address was all the doctor
intended it should be, - a masterly defence of the by no means obso
lete doctrine of State's rights. Not content, however, with vulgar
abuse , some of his critics misstate the facts in the grossest, most
indecent manner . There being nothing in the address upon which
to base a bill of indictment against President Laws, his traducers are
driven to the desperate alternative of manufacturing a man of straw , at
which to hurl their bitter invectives. They declare that Dr. Laws justi
fied the rebellion , when not a word was uttered in justification thereof.
They are careful to withhold such language as would convey the real
idea expressed, as, in reference to the results of the war, the doctor
declared that one result of that struggle was to settle for all time the
question of secession . The seceded States , having suffered defeat in
the struggle growing out of secession , the principle involved had

been practically settled by the sword , and for all time to come.
DR . WALTER T. LENOIR .
Dr. Lenoir is a son of Walter Raleigh and Sarah E. ( Bouchelle )

Lenoir, and was born October 4 , 1827, in Wilkes county , North Caro
lina . His father was born at Fort Defiance , North Carolina , March
15th , 1787, and died October 15th , 1844. His mother was born
December 28 , 1798 , in Burke county , North Carolina, and died August
3d , 1875. They came to Boone county , Missouri, November 4th ,
1834 , and settled on a farm two and one-half miles north of Colum
bia . They are buried in the Columbia Cemetery . They were blessed
with six children , two boys and four girls . Annie E. (deceased ),
wife of Boyle Jewell ; Julia E., wife of Elder S. S. Church ; of the
Christian Church ; Myra C., wife of Col. F. T. Russell ; Dr. W. F .;
Martha L., wife of T. A. Russell , attorney at law , of St. Louis , and
Slater E., a prominent farmer of Boone county . Their grandfather
was Gen. William Lenoir, of Old Fort Defiance, North Carolina .
He was a prominent light in the politics of the old North State for
sixty years, holding offices from justice of the peace up to president
of the constitutional convention for remodeling the State constitution .
He served many years in both houses of the legislature , and was for
several terms respectively , president of the one, and speaker of the
other. He was also for a number of years president of the Court of
Common Pleas. He is buried at Fort Defiance , where an elegant
monument was erected over his grave by an appreciative and grateful
constituency . Dr. Walter T., our subject, was educated at the State
University , graduating from that institution in the class of '49.
In 1850 he went to St. Louis and attended medical lectures at Pope's
Medical College , where he graduated in 1853 , and returned to Colum
bia to practice his profession . From 1858 to 1861, he practiced in
co -partnership with Dr. Wm . H. Duncan . He soon took rank with
older physicians than himself, and, to -day is reckoned among the
State's best . He has held a number of positions of honor and trust .
From 1855 to 1862 he was treasurer of the State University and a
member of the board of curators. Since 1856 he has been a member
of the board of curators, physician and trustee of Christian

College. He was appointed by Gov. B. Gratz Brown manager of
the State Lunatic Asylum at Fulton , which position he held for four
or five years . He has been an elder in the Christian Church since
1856 , and is a Knight Templar, being at one time master of the
lodge . He has been married twice , the first time to Miss Fannie C.,
daughter of James Shannon ( at one time president of the Univer
sity ) May 29 , 1856. By this union they had four children , three
girls and one boy : Anna S., Eva D., James C., and Julia C. They
were educated at Christian College and at the University . His first
wife died April 13 , 1864. She was a devoted member of the Chris
tian Church , and a graduate of Bacon College , Kentucky. July 4 ,
1866 , he was married to Miss Nannie J., daughter of Federal and
Sarah Dunn Walker , of Howard county , Missouri. By this marriage
they have one son , George W. Mrs. Lenoir is a graduate of Chris
tian College and has been a member of the Christian Church since
early childhood . Dr. Lenoir is yet in the prime of a vigorous, active
manhood , and is a dignified , courtly gentleman of the old school.
H. B. LONSDALE .
Henry Brougham Lonsdale was born in Leicester , England ,

November 13, 1832 . He cameto America at an early age and settled
first in Wisconsin . In 1853 he went to St. Louis , and the year
following came to Columbia . He learned the tailoring business in
boyhood and has followed it ever since . At present he is engaged in
the merchant tailoring business and dealing in sewing machines. Mr.
Lonsdale was married April 2 , 1860 , to Miss Meron G.Mayhew , of
Grundy county , Missouri, a descendant of the Mayhew family of
Martha's Vineyard , Massachusetts , where Mrs. Lonsdale was born .
They have had six children , one of whom is dead . The living are :
Frank, Kate , Harvey , May H., and Elston Holmes. The dead child
was named Maggie D. The two first named are graduates of the
State University – Frank in 1881, and Kate in 1882. Mr. and Mrs.
Lonsdale are members of the Christian Church . He is also i
member of the I. O. G. T. He has been a member of the school
board , and is now clerk of the board of town trustees . He has a
nice home in Columbia , the result of his own labors . He is an exem
plary member of society and is highly appreciated by all who know
him .
THOMAS JEFFERSON LOWRY , B. S. , N. G., M. S., C. E.,

Professor of Civil Engineering, Dean of Engineering Faculty , and Secretary of University
Faculty, Missouri State University , Columbia , Missouri.
Prof. Lowry , the present able dean of the engineering school of the
“ University of the State of Missouri,” is a descendant of one of two
brothers who came over from Scotland in 1747 and settled in Philadel
phia , He is a native of Randolph county , Missouri, and was born No
vember 29 , 1850. His paternal grandfather was Dr. John J. Lowry ,
of Howard county, Missouri ; his father, Dr. W. T. Lowry, was a
physician of eminence and a man of extraordinary ability ; his mother
is a native of Randolph county , Missouri, and a daughter of Judge
Joseph Turner, who was a native of Tennessee, whose parents were
from North Carolina, and whose ancestors were Irish .
The Christian culture and training from his mother he prizes above
all the wisdom of the philosophers ; and the inflexible, Roman- like
character of his grandfathers is the best part of the family inheri
tance . "
In early boyhood , studious and thoughtful beyond his years , his par
ents determined to give him a thorough education ,that he might attain
to that distinction and usefulness of which he seemed to give promise .
His home culture and early school training were all that could be desired
at the hands of fond parents and able teachers . He entered McGee
College, Missouri, in the fall of 1866 , standing at the head of his classes
in the sciences and the mathematics. His mathematical instructor
here , Prof. W.J. Patton , said of him : “ In the class- room I feared
Lowry , for I felt that he was more than a match for me, with his won
derful mathematical genius ; and many times I found the teacher taught
by the learning learner.” Desiring to pursue a more thorough course
in the physical sciences and the mathematics than McGee College
offered , he entered the junior class of the Missouri State University ,
at Columbia , in the fall of 1868 ; he graduated from the University
in June, 1870 , and was awarded the first honor in the scientific de
partment, and also , in a competitive examination on international and
constitutional law , won the “ law prize ,” receiving the degrees of bache
lor of science and normal graduate. President Read testified to the
accurate learning and marked ability of young Lowry in pursuing the
subtleties of the law . He said to the senior class : “ Gentlemen , when
Lowry speaks, it makes me think ; ” and turning to young Lowry , he
added : 66 Lowry , that is the highest compliment that I could pay
you . ”
For his proficiency in mathematics ( ranking first in his class ), he

was recommended by the University for an appointment as an officer
in the United States coast survey , which he received October , 1870 .
He read medicine in his father's office in 1865 and ’66 , and during the
summer and fall of 1870 attended lectures at St. Louis Medical Col-
lege, but gave up his medical studies in order to devote his time to
the more congenial pursuits — surveying and engineering on the United
States coast survey. From 1870 to 1877 he was on the Atlantic , gulf
and Pacific coasts, actively engaged on the United States coast survey ,
in the following classes of field -work : Hydrography, topography, pri
mary triangulation , magnetics, reconnoissance for primary triangula-
tion , latitudes , azimuths, and also chronometer and telegraphic longi
tudes. During these active and arduous labors he found time to
exercise his inventive genius in bringing order out of chaos in the
science and art of hydrographic surveying . His discovery of new and.
improved methods in hydrographic surveying, and his invention of sex
tants and protractors more perfectly adapted to the wants of the hydro
grapher, and whereby one officer is enabled to make the measurement ;
previously made by three , have introduced him to the hydrographers.
of all civilized nations .
The sextant, as it came from the brain of Sir Isaac Newton , was.
imperfectly adapted to the wants of the hydrographer , failing to meas
ure angles between 140 and 180 degrees, and also failing to measure :
two angles at the same instant. The hydrographers of England , Ger
many, France and the United States had studied for a half century to
remedy these defects, but with only partial success. Young Lowry
invented the following sextants which perfectly solved these and other
problems :
I. A sextant to measure any angle from 0 to 180 degrees without.
inverting the instrument, and while reflecting but one object .
II . A sextant capable of measuring two angles, one to the right
and the other to the left of the central object , at the same instant;
either angle being any size , from 0 to 140 degrees .
III. A sextant capable ofmeasuring two angles in quick succession ,
without previously estimating their relative magnitudes , or inverting
the sextant, or lengthening its arc .
IV . A sextant capable ofmeasuring two angles in quick succession ,
and an interrange at the same instant.
V. The protracting sextant , which enables one observer to measure
and plot two angles with a facility , ease and accuracy not now at
tained with two ordinary sextants, and one protractor in the hands of
two observers and one plotter .
He is the author of several new methods in hydrographic surveying .
Some of the above are described in Volume XIV of the American
Cyclopedia , and all are described in the proceedings of the California
Academy of Science , the Analyst, the Mining and Scientific Press, of
San Francisco , and the Nautical Gazette , of New York .
In 1874 , Prof. Lowry was elected a member of the California
Academy of Science , at San Francisco , and was an active and pro
ductive member , as the academy reports of 1874–5–6 will show . ' In
August, 1877 , he was elected a member of the American Association
for the Advancement of Science. In 1878 he was elected a inember
of the Engineers’ Club of St. Louis. In June, 1873, the degree of
master of science was conferred on him by his alma mater .
In June, 1877, Prof. Lowry was elected professor of civil engineer
ing in the University of the State of Missouri. The University , in
June, 1878 , conferred upon him the honorary degree of civil engineer ,
created the engineering department, and elected him professor of
civil engineering and dean of the engineering faculty . Prof. Lowry
was a delegate from Columbia to the Missouri river improvement
convention , held in St. Joseph, Missouri, November 29 and 30 , 1881.
In September , 1878 , Prof. Lowry was elected secretary of the Univer
sity faculty for the school year of 1878–9 , and was re -elected to the
same important and responsible position for the sessions of 1879-80 ,
1880–1, 1881–2, 1882—3 . “ He faithfully and efficiently performed
the duties of this position during the four years of his alma mater's
greatest prosperity , from October , 1878 , to October, 1882 ; and then ,
though re-elected for session of 1882–3 , resigned the secretaryship in
order to devote his undivided energies to the growing demands of the
tree planted by his own hands — the engineering department of the
University of the State of Missouri."
In 1877, the engineering limb was engrafted on the academic trunk
of the University tree ; it grew from the first and flourished . As to
the fruit it has borne, we quote from the report of the board of cura
tors to the XXXI General Assembly of Missouri : “ Young men
have already gone out and are still going out from the engineering
department of the Missouri University , thoroughly educated and
trained for efficient service upon the great works of internal improve
ment and foreign commerce . Conscious of their individual strength
in their profession , they have asserted their rights and assumed their
places on road and railroad engineering parties, and on the surveys

and improvements of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers, and which
positions they now hold and acorn with honor and distinction ."
President Laws said , in a public lecture : “ This school of engineering
is a pillar of strength to this University , and an honor to the Uni
versity and to the State of Missouri.”
Professor Lowry's great aim , never lost sight of, in this school has
been to prepare young engineers to meet fully the demands of their
profession in this the last quarter of the nineteenth century. To
this end , drawing-room and field work are made to bear a large pro
portion to the theoretical instruction of the class -room , so as to unite
manipulative skill with theoretical instruction , thus avoiding the fatal
blunder of so many of our engineering schools, viz . : attempting to
teach the surveying and engineering arts without putting them into
practice .
A critic says , “ Prof. Lowry is never guilty of speaking or writing
on a subject which he has not thoroughly investigated . He is a
fluent and forcible writer , treats every subject he touches with clear
ness, frankness, and ability ; is a learned and scientific educator, and
a vigorous , clear , logical and comprehensive thinker practically in
the department of education .” For five years he has wielded his
able pen in setting forth the merits of his alma mater , in popular
izing science and scientific pursuits, and in persuading the young men
of the West to seek educations for a purpose. In these efforts he
has been untiring ; seed -thoughts , looking to a useful and steady
development of the American mind , keeping pace with the march of
science and philosophy, have been sown broadcast through lectures,
pamphlets , and the daily press, and cannot cease to vivify , though
the source may be lost sight of. He has never failed to command
the close attention and hearty approval of the thinking public. As
an indication of the spirit with which the productions of his pen are
received , we quote a written opinion by the lamented J. K. Rogers ,
LL . D .: “ I have read Prof. Lowry's lecture on The Professional
School in the American University ' through and through with interest
and pleasure, and it has my hearty endorsement and approval. It is
a live , wide-awake lecture , full of enthusiasm and vim , abreast of
the times , and with its face set in the right direction . It is an admir
able plea for the particular department its author represents , and
cannot fail to do good for the University and make reputation for its
author. As a plea for the sciences and for professional education it
is unanswerable, and no one ought to want to answer it . I must con

gratulate Prof. Lowry upon the success of this lecture , and upon the
success of the engineering department.” Another critic says :
“ Prof. Lowry is a man of great ability , unquestioned genius, won
derful energy, thoroughly up in his profession , fostered under the
administration of that most powerful intellect of this or any other
age, Dr. S. S. Laws. "
Prof. Lowry is a man of not quitemedium height,nervous -sanguine
temperament, dark auburn hair, grayish brown eyes , with determina
tion written on every feature , and is in the prime of a fresh and
vigorous young manhood . He has all those qualities which
thoroughly individualize a man and is a most decided type of himself.
He is a Missourian to the manner born with him it is " Missouri
first - the world afterwards." We close this sketch with the closing
paragraph of a lecture he delivered on “ Engineering in Missouri :"

.6 My heart is in this cause . My soul iş in this work . My life and
energies are consecrated to building up the cause of the exact arts in
Missouri. I owe my all to this University , and I want no more glory
while I live , no more glorious heritage when I come to pass over the
great river , no more lasting monument, no prouder epitaph than
that I was instrumental in building up the exact arts, in this my alma
mater in this , my native State."
W. T. MAUPIN , M. D.
Dr. Maupin is a native of Boone county , born April 17 , 1839. His

father , Wm . Maupin , was one of the first settlers of Missouri, coming
here from Madison county , Kentucky , in 1816 , settling first at Old
Franklin , in Howard county . In 1819 he removed to Boone, when
there were but a very few habitations, or inhabitants either . He
settled in Columbia , and was a wheelwright and housebuilder .
W. T. Maupin was educated in the common schools of Boone
county , and at William Jewell College , Liberty . In the summer of
1861 he joined Captain Peacher's company, Col. M.G. Singleton's
battalion , Missouri State Guards, and served as commissary of the
battalion . He was in the engagements at Boonville , Drywood and
Lexington . After the capture of Lexington , while General Price's
army was retreating toward Southwest Missouri, he was taken sick
in Johnson county and lay ill for about two months . Upon his
recovery he returned to this county and spent the remainder of the
fall of 1861, and the winter of 1861–2 in dodging " Merrill's
Horse " and other detachments of Federal troops, March 6 , 1862,

while on his way to Price's army, he was captured in Cooper county by
some soldiers belonging to the command of Col. Eppstein , of Boon
ville . He was held a prisoner for thirteen months, the greater portion
of the time in McDowell College , St. Louis, and at Alton , Ill. Upon
his release on parole , his weight was reduced to eighty -seven and a
half pounds. He returned home and took no further part in the
war . Previous to his service with the Missouri army under General
Price he took part in the affair at Fulton , known as the “ Fulton
>>
races . ' His brother , Robert L. Maupin , a graduate of the law
school at Lebanon , Tenn., was a gallant Confederate officer , and

served on the staff of General (now U. S. Senator ) Cockerill,
although he had but one arm , the other having been lost before the
war .
In 1863–4 Dr. Maupin attended the St. Louis Medical College .

In 1864–5 he was at Jefferson College , Philadelphia , and graduated'
from that famed institution in the class of 1865. He located in the
practice of his profession at Columbia , where he has since resided ,
making occasional trips to the far West for recreation , etc. The
doctor has been very successful as a practitioner . He has devoted
considerable attention to gynecology , and is renowned for his skill
in and knowledge of that particular branch of medical science . He
is medical examiner of all the insurance organizations connected
with the secret orders of Columbia , and is examiner for the Good
Templars' Mutual Benefit Association of America , of which organiza
tion he is one of the founders.
Dr. Maupin married Miss Mary A.Matthews, a daughter of J. L.
Matthews, Esq., an old citizen of this county . They are the parents
of four children , Lulu Bell, James Lawrence , Bettie and Mary Waugh .
The doctor is a member of the Baptist , and Mrs. M. of the Methodist
Church . He has taken all the degrees of Masonry up to and
including the commandery ; is an Odd Fellow , a K. of P., K. of H.,
United Workman , and a Good Templar . Of his connection with
the latter order he feels especially proud . He has held the position
of W. C. T. in the Columbia lodge.
Dr. Maupin is a member of the great family of Maupins whose
branches are to be found throughout Missouri, and whose ancestors
were the DeMaupins of France , who settled in Virginia more than a
century ago. He is a nephew of Thos. C. Maupin , the pioneer
sheriff of Boone county . One of the doctor's sisters married Gov
ernor Leslie , of Kentucky ; another is the wife of Travis Cockerill,

a renowned lawyer of Glasgow , Ky. Two of his sisters reside in
Colorado , and his brother is now a resident of Mobile , Alabama.
WILLIAM D. MAUPIN .
William D. Maupin was born in Albemarle county , Virginia , June

6th , 1840. He is the son of Silas B. and Mary (Norris ) Maupin .
He left Virginia in October , 1854 , and came to Montgomery county ,
Missouri, where he lived until 1859. His father sold his farm ir
Montgomery and moved to Truxton , Lincoln county ,Missouri, where
the subject of this sketch was educated , attending the seminary of
that place, under the instructions of Professor F. T.Williams. Was
a pupil of this school during two sessions . In the spring of 1862 he
went to Lontre Island , as an overseer for William I. Talbott , and re
mained there until fall, having charge of thirty - eight slaves and five
hundred acres of land . He next went to Pike county , Missouri,
where he took charge of the Tinsley plantation of some forty slaves
and four hundred acres of land . Stayed on this farm until the fall of
1863, when he crossed the river and engaged in the tobacco trade dur
ing the winter following . In the spring of 1864 he crossed the plains.
to Nevada, making his home at Empire City , three miles from Car
son . Followed mule trading and teaming while in Nevada. Re
. mained there until the summer of 1870 , when he returned to Missouri
and bought a farm ten miles southwest of Chillicothe. Was married
December , 1870, to Miss Nancy A. Cochran , of Wentzville, St.
Charles county , Missouri. They have one daughter , Effie . After his
marriage Mr. Maupin went to work on a farm in St. Charles county ,
and remained there until February , 1882, when he came to Columbia ,
Boone county , and went into the firm of Maupin , Smith & Co., known
as the “ Farmer's Mills. ” [See city history . ] Mr. and Mrs. Mau
pin are both members of the Methodist Church . They have a nice
new house on Price Avenue, and are well pleased with their new
home, and with their future prospects generally .
GEORGE HENRY MATTHEWS, DECEASED .
The outlines of the biography of this gentleman could not be

obtained very fully nor very accurately . The date of his birth could
not be learned . He was married November 23 , 1858, to Miss Olivia ,
daughter of Warren and Elizabeth (McClelland ) Woodson . Four
children were born of this marriage, all daughters , two of whom died
in infancy . The deceased children were Lucretia B. and Lizzie,

while the two surviving ones are Mary G. and Jessie 0. Prof. Mat
thews came from Kentucky to Boone county ,Missouri, in 1848 or '49.
For about seventeen years he was professor of ancient and modern
languages in the State University at Columbia . He always engaged
in teaching as a vocation , and died in September 13 , 1869. He lies
buried in the Columbia Cemetery .
JAMES L. MATTHEWS, DECEASED .
James L.Matthews, deceased , was the son of Robert and Eliza

(Glascock ) Matthews. He was born August 29 , 1813, in Richmond
county, Virginia , and was reared and educated in his native county .
In early youth he learned the trade of carriage-maker, and followed
the business while yet a citizen of the Old Dominion . In 1836 he
came to Columbia , Missouri, where he established and operated a
carriage factory up to the year 1860 , when he sold out and went into
the hardware business, which he followed until his death , May 22 ,
1880. He was married in 1833 to Miss Louisa , daughter of Hilkiah
Ball, of Lancaster county , Virginia . They had five children born to
them , two sons and three daughters. Mary A., wife of Dr. W. T.
Maupin , of Columbia ; James B. (deceased ) ; Bettie S., wife of Maj.
D. D. Berry , a prominent business man of Columbia , and Milton S.
(deceased ) . The first wife dying July 8 , 1852, Mr. Matthews was
again married , October 26 , 1853, to Miss Mary , daughter of James
and Margaret Bowling . Three children were born of this marriage ,
two sons and one daughter . Louisa married A. R. Berry . Charles
is a partner in the hardware business established by James L.Mat
thews, and now conducted by Berry & Matthews. Lawrence is dead .
The elder Matthews commenced life without means and with but little
education . His father perished at sea while en route to England to
settle an estate . The subject of this sketch was the oldest son and
second child of the family , and the burden of the household fell mainly
upon his shoulders , but he proved equal to the task , and while yet a
mere boy assumed the duties and responsibilities of a full-grown
man . His brother, Milton S., died in June, 1875 . His sister is liv
ing in Oregon , the wife of Mr. Faucett . James L. Matthews was a

successful business man in the strictest sense of the word . Com
mencing life with nothing but his trade, he accumulated a large estate ,
and was enabled to do much good , for his hand was ever opened to
alleviate the sorrows of honest and virtuous poverty , and those who
JAMES L. MATTHEWS.
merited relief never applied to him in vain . Mrs. Matthews is a mem

ber of the Baptist Church . Mrs. Eliza (Glascock ) Matthews,mother
of the subject of this sketch , died in Columbia , April 17 , 1851, and is
buried in the Columbia Cemetery .
JOHN MACHIR .
John Machir , the subject of this sketch , was born in Mason county ,
Kentucky, May 10th , 1820. He is the son of Henry A. and Martha A.
( Woodson ) Machir. He was raised in Kentucky and educated in
Maysville , Mason county . In 1837 he came to St. Louis with his
brother - in -law , Thomas T. January , and for the next six years clerked
in the wholesale grocery house of January , Stetinins & Brother . The
firm having failed in 1843, Mr. Machir went into business the follow
ing year , under the firm name of January & Machir , wholesale dealers
in groceries, and so continued until 1852, when he came to Boone
county and settled on the west side of the Two-mile prairie . His
farm of 600 acres is situated six miles southeast of Columbia . In
1869 he moved to Columbia , but did not sell his farm . He has lived
in Columbia ever since. He has been trustee of Christian College
for about eighteen years . Was one of the directors of the school
board for about five years . Mr. Machir was married , December 25th ,
1847, to Miss Mary E., daughter of John M. and Mary ( Taylor )
January , of Cynthiana, Harrison county , Kentucky. They have had
six children . Two sons died in their infancy . Mary T., wife of
James H. Parker , died in the spring of 1880. Mattie is the wife of
R. W. Dorsey , of Bunker Hill , Illinois. Tiny B. and Maria J. are at
home with their parents. They are all graduates of Christian College,
Columbia , Missouri. Mr. Machir and family are members of the
Christian church .
CHARLES A. MILLER .
The subject of this sketch was born in St. Louis, Missouri, May
220 , 1848. The year following his parents moved to Portland , Cal
laway county , where they lived for the next five years , removing in
1854 to Rocheport , Boone county . In 1864 be entered the store of
Clayton , Miller & Co., and clerked for that firm until July , 1868 ,
when he commenced the livery business with David Bishop , the firm
being Bishop & Miller . Remained with Bishop one year, when J. W.
Skinner bought his interest, thus changing the firm to Miller & Skin
ner . The business was thus conducted for three years, when Mr.
Miller bought his partner's interest and continued the business alone
until 1875 , when the stable , with fourteen head of horses and all the
rolling stock belonging thereto, was burved ; loss two thousand dol
lars . While in the livery business Mr. Miller ran a hack line between
Columbia and Rocheport, and between Rocheport and Boonville .
In 1875 he came to Columbia , and the year following went into the
tobacco business with John M. Samuel and was with him for one year,
when the firm changed to Conley , Samuel & Miller , and so continued
until 1878. In the spring of that year Mr. Miller went into the liv
ery business with D.G.Clark , under the firm name of Clark & Miller.
J. H. Guitar afterwards took an interest in the business , and the firm
name was changed to Clark , Miller & Co., and so continued until the
death of Mr. Clark in 1880, when Guitar bought his interest and the
firm became Miller & Guitar , and has remained such ever since . The
stable is called the Planters ’, and is one hundred by sixty -four feet ,
fronting University street. They have twenty - five horses and their
vehicles are of the finest and best quality . In connection with the
livery business they buy and sell mules, shipping them to the West
and South . Mr. Miller was married February 13th , 1872 , to Miss
Corney J., daughter of James C. and Mary J. ( Thornton ) Orr. They
have four children , James R., Albert , Mary , and a younger son yet
unmarried . Mr. Miller is a member of the Christian church . He is
also an Odd Fellow and a member of the Order of United Workmen .
Mrs. Miller is a member of the Methodist church .
DR . GEORGE S. MORSE .
Dr. Morse is the son of Dennis and Sallie ( Whitcomb) Morse , and
was born October 6th , 1828 , in Madison , Madison county , New York .
He was educated at Hamilton College. In the spring of 1854 he
graduated from the medical school at Philadelphia, and commenced
the practice of medicine at Oriskany Falls, Oneida county , New York .
In the fall of 1855 he moved to Wisconsin and practiced his profession
for three years at Ebadan , Dodge county . Then , in 1858, he moved
to Boonville , Cooper county , Missouri . While in Boonville he
studied dentistry and practiced it there three years. In December ,
1864, he removed to Columbia , Boone county , and has practiced
dentistry ever siuce . He has built up a large and lucrative practice ,
and is deservedly popular socially and professionally. He was mar
ried , April 5th , 1855, to Miss Hattie N., daughter of Frederick and
Mary A. ( Nelson ) Brooks. By this union they have had six children ,
four boys and two girls ; only two are now living , George M., mer
chandising at Round Rock , Williamson county , Texas , and Fred . H.,

a prominent artist of St. Louis , Missouri.
Dr. Morse's father was born November 28th , 1800 , in Steventown ,
Renssalaer county , N. Y., and went with his parents to Madison , New
York , in March , 1806 , and was reared a farmer. Hemarried , August
28th , 1820 , Miss Sarah , daughter of Calvin and Sarah (Brownell)
Whitcomb. They had five children , three boys and two girls : Elea
nor . (deceased ) , Joseph H. ( deceased ) , Asa W. (deceased , died in
Denver , Colorado,) and Sarah , Our subject , is the third child . Dr.
Morse is a descendant of Samuel Morse , of England, who was born
in 1585 , and emigrated to New England in 1635 , and settled in Ded
ham , Massachusetts, in 1637, and died April 5th , 1654. The subject
of this sketch , Dr.George S. Morse , is of the eighth generation from
Samuel Morse .
JOSEPH SAMUEL MOSS .
J. S. Moss, a prominent merchant and capitalist of Columbia , Mis

souri, was born in Logan county , Kentucky, January 31st , 1831. At
the age of seven , came to Greene county , Missouri, where he was
raised on a farm . He was educated at the old country log school
house . When fifteen years old went to Springfield and entered the
store of Sheppard & Jaggard , dry goods merchants , where he re
mained for five years , when he became a member of the firm , and
so continued for five years, when he commenced business under
the firm name of J. S. Moss & Co. Conducted this business until the
close of the war . During the war did a liberal business . Confeder
ates and Federals took what they wanted and gave vouchers in return .
Some of the vouchers were afterwards honored , many were not . He
was in Springfield when the battle was fought at Wilson Creek , and.
saw the body of Gen. Lyon . In February , 1862, he went South into
Arkansas and Tennessee. In June, 1863 , went to St. Louis and from
there to Columbia , Missouri , where he has resided ever since . Was
inarried August 10 , 1854 , to Miss Clara , daughter of D. D. Berry , a
native of Springfield , Missouri. Have had seven children , five of
whom are living : Daniel Dorsey , J. S., Jr., Laura , Clara and Wil
liam . Mr. and Mrs. Moss are members of the Christian Church .
Mr. Moss is also a member of A. O. U. W.
DAVID R. M'ANALLY , JR .
The subject of this sketch , who has for five years been professor of
English literature in the State University , is a son of the eminent
Dr. David R. McAnally , well known to all as the editor for many
years of the St. Louis Christian Advocate . His mother's maiden
name was Maria Thompson , a lady of refined sensibilities and de
voted to the care and happiness of her family . David was born at
Knoxville , Tennessee , November 21, 1847. Owing to the great war
which began when he was in his fourteenth year , he never entered
college , but remained home under the tutorage of his distinguished
father , which probably gave him greater thoroughness than he could
have obtained at the schools . He has, however , received honorary
degrees from different institutions, including that of A. M., conferred
by the Arcadia (Missouri) College. When only four years old , his
father moved his family to St. Louis, and that city has been the home
of David R., Jr., ever since ; though he has travelled extensively in
the United States, especially in the West, his last vacation having
been spent in Colorado.
Prof. McAnally's first efforts in teaching were made at Carondelet
High School, where he taught three years as subordinate teacher and
two years as principal. In 1872 , he took charge of Arcadia College
and remained two years. From that time till he took his present
position in the University , he was engaged in newspaper work . He
wrote a great deal for his father's paper, both before and during the
time he was teaching , and for two years was 6 leader writer ou the
Globe- Democrat . His newspaper connection gave him quite a trav
elled experience, and he was frequently “ on the move " before he
came to Columbia . Prof. M. comes of a family of strong South
ern proclivities. His father is a native of Tennessee and his mother
of Virginia , which makes decidedly a Southern combination . They
are a Southern Methodist family , though at the beginning of the war
Dr. D. R. McAnally , Sr., was a staunch Union man and opposed to
slavery . Young David early developed a decided taste for music, and
has given much time to its systematic study. While connected with
the newspapers , he was regarded as a fine musical critic ; and has
been much engaged in writing articles on that subject. He has
printed several songs and musical compositions, and still has on hand
a number of unpublished musical productions. The first course of
lectures on English language and literature ever given in the Univer
sity was delivered by Prof. M. in 1879–80 , and were as well at
tended as any course of the institution
institution . Since then , he has
to give annual courses, and is now connected with the president and
others of the faculty in the publication of the University Review .
His services are in frequent demand in lecturing before the State

Teachers ' Association , and no young gentleman of his age has greater
educational prominence in Missouri. His articles on the. “ Turco
Russian War," while working for the Globe- Democrat, created a
favorable impression all over the country , and brought forth many
complimentary comments from press and public .
DR . A. W. M'ALESTER .
Dr. Andrew Walker McAlester was born in Rocheport , Boone

county , Missouri, January 1, 1841. He is the son of B. McAlester,
a lumber merchant of Columbia . Dr. McAlester was partly educated
at the common schools, completing his literary studies at the State
University , where he graduated in 1864 . He then read medicine
under Dr. Norwood and attended the St. LouisMedical College where
he received his degree in 1866. He also attended Rush Medical
College , Chicago, and Bellevue, New York . In 1873, he visited
Europe and attended the medical colleges at London and Paris . He
also visited the schools of Germany. In 1872 was given the chair of
surgery and obstetrics in the State University , which position he still
holds. Is president of the Liuton Medical Association . Has been a
member of the American Medical Association . Is a Mason . Has
been twice married . First in 1869 to Miss Iza Bell, of Springfield ,
Missouri. She died in 1870. He was again married in 1873 to Miss
Sallie McConathy , of Boone county . They have three sons : Andrew
W., Berry , and an infant. Dr. McAlester is a member of the Meth
odist Church .
BRIGHTBERRY M'ALESTER .
Brightberry McAlester , the subject of this sketch , is the son of

James G. and Tempest ( Jackson ) McAlester . He was born in Simp
son county , Kentucky, October 26 , 1809. He was partly reared and
educated in his native county , attending a school taught in a rude log
house during the winter months of the year. The Commonwealth
of Kentucky was then in its infancy , and the resident population were
the first settlers and their children . The first families who ventured
into the wilds of Kentucky had all they could do to protect their lives ,
and of course gave little time or attention to education . Mrs. Mc
Alester , the mother of the subject of this sketch , spent much of her
early youth in the forts, while the fierce Indian wars threatened ex
termination to the few whites who had dared to invade their hunting
grounds. Mrs. McAlester saw Daniel Boone many times, having oc
58
cupied the fort in which the pioneer chieftain was an inmate during
those memorable days which gave to Kentucky the name. of " the
Dark and Bloody Ground .” The family emigrated to Howard county ,
Missouri, in 1828 , stopping near Glasgow . Mr. McAlester had pre
viously learned the carpenter's trade in Kentucky , and, leaving his
widowed mother at Glasgow , he sought employment at New Frank
lin , Howard county . In 1830 Mr. McAlester went to St. Louis ,
where he worked at his trade for eighteen months, mainly for the
purpose of perfecting himself in the business . He returned to New
Franklin , and went to work contracting and building. He also man
aged a steam saw -mill. In 1837 he cameto Rocheport, Boone county ,
where he worked at his trade from 1839 to 1846 , being the principal
contractor and builder in that section of country . In the spring of
1846 he came to Columbia to build the court-house , being one of the
building firm of Richardson , McAlester & Keene. In 1856 he built
the county jail, and in 1865 the president's mansion in connection
with the State University , that building having been destroyed by fire
during the war , and in 1872 had the contract for building the scien
tific building, also in connection with the State University . He has
been actively identified with the building interests of the county ever
since becoming a citizen of Boone. He has also dealt extensively in
lumber and all kinds of building material. In the spring of 1870,
James D. Bowling bought out the interest of James B. Ruckel , Mr.
McAlester's partner , and since that time the firm has been McAlester ,
Bowling & Co. In addition to their lumber yard , they handle all
kinds of farm machinery , buggies, wagons, and the like.. They are
doing a large business. Mr. McAlester was married in October,
1832 , to Miss Mary A. Walker, of New Franklin , Missouri. They
have had five children : James N. (who was lost on a Missouri river
.
boat at Lexington lànding) ; Mary F., Sarah B. (deceased ) , Martha

T., wife of James D. Bowling, and Andrew W., who is a professor at
the State University , and a practicing physician of Columbia . Mr.
McAlester is a Mason and a member of the Methodist church . His
wife is also a Methodist . Mr. McAlester's mother died in 1834 , and
is buriedj near Glasgow . His father died in Kentucky when the sub
ject of this sketch was but a small boy..
GEORGE M. M'CONAUGHEY
Is a son of David and Sarah (Mitcheltree) McConaughey , and was

-born June 17 , 1844 , in Jefferson county , Ohio . He left his native
county when a mere child and went to Belmont county , Ohio . In

his twelfth year he went to Wheeling , West Virginia , and in 1859
went to Burning Springs , same State , and worked in the oil wells .
In 1861 he enlisted in the Federal army in the Eighteenth Ohio Vol
unteer regiment,but only served threemonths. In 1864 he reënlisted
under Capt . Frank Buell, in what was known as Buell's Pierpont
Battery , Virginia artillery . He was honorably discharged in 1865 .
The battery was in twenty -three battles and skirmishes. "He was
wounded while on a scout and taken prisoner by Col. Mosby, but es
caped the second night. In the winter of 1865–6 , he went on the
Baltimore and Ohio railroad as fireman for three or four years , then
as engineer for one year. When making his run near Moundsville ,
Virginia , the engine jumped the track and he barely escaped with his
life . In December , 1870 , he came to St. Louis and worked upon the
third pier of the great bridge for six months . In August, 1871 , he
came to Columbia , Boone county , Missouri, and clerked in the hard
ware store of C. C. Newman until May, 1875. He then went back
to Belmont, Ohio , and married Miss R. J., daughter of Alexander
and Rebecca Crossan . They have had four children , two boys
and two girls, Minnie M., David B. (dead ), Anna B. and Sylvester W.
Upon returning from Ohio , he obtained his old position as clerk in the
store of Newman & Garth until the fall of 1875 , when he went into
the sewing machine business for about a year . He then went to firing
for the Columbia Gas Company, which position he held until 1878 ,
when he was appointed superintendent, and has been there until the
present time. He sold and set up the first gas engine ever used in
the county , viz . : the one used in the Columbia elevator. He does all
the steam and gas fitting for the city , and is engineer and superin
tendent of the Columbia Gaslight and Coke Company. The works
were built in 1875 by a stock company , with a capital stock of $ 15 ,
000. The enterprise was put on foot by Sylvester Watts . Mr. Mc
Conaughey is agent for the Otto Silent Gas Engine . He is a member
of the Knights of Pythias, Knights of Honor , and Ancient Order of
United Workmen . He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian
church .
GEORGE M'DANIEL .
The subject of this sketch is the son of William and Sarah A.

(Fitzbugh ) McDaniel, and was born in King George county , Virginia ..
He was educated at Caroline College, Caroline county , Virginia .
Afterwards learned the trade of carriage making in King George
county , where he followed the business for several years. He came

to Boone county , Missouri, in August, 1866 , and was married August
27 , 1868, to Miss Isabella , daughter of John and Elizabeth ( Dailey )
Lackland , of Lexington , Kentucky. By this marriage they had three
sons and two daughters . Rosa E. died August 19 , 1870 , and George
I., August 10 , 1878. After coming to Boone county , he opened a
shop in Columbia under the firm name of Homer & McDaniel. Mr.
McDaniel is now a miember of the firm of McDaniel, Scruggs & Co.,

contractors and builders . This is the principal firm of the kind in
Columbia , and is doing a large business . Mr. McDaniel is a member

of the A. O. U. W. He is also a member of the Missionary Baptist
church . Mrs. McDaniel is likewise a member of the same church .
William McDaniel, the father of George , died at his home in King
George county , Virginia , in 1879 , aged eighty -two . His mother is
still living at the age of seventy - one.
DR . JAMES M'NUTT .
The subject of this sketch is a native of Ireland , having been born

in County Donegal about the year 1832. He came to this country
in 1841 and settled in Newark , Delaware , where he grew to manhood
and received most of his education . In 1852 he 'was surveyor for
several counties in Maryland . He was also engaged in teaching at

the same time. In the summer of 1854 he came West and visited the
States of Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota and Wisconsin . Studied medi
cine under Dr. Alrich , at Fort Penn, Delaware , for about three years
and took severalcourses of lectures at Jefferson Medical College , Phil
adelphia . Travelled for sometime as correspondent of several Eastern
papers. In the winter of 1855 he taught school in Iowa. The
spring following came to Missouri and spent about one year in St.
Louis county . In 1857 went to Bowling Green , Pike county , where
he taught a private school for one year . He was then engaged as
principal of Bowling Green Academy and had charge of that institu
tion from 1858 to 1860. Enlisted as a surgeon in the Federal army,
April 24th , 1863 , and served with the Gulf Department in 1864-5.
Officiated as surgeon at Forts Livingston and Jackson . He quit the
Federal service in 1866 and came to Marshall , Saline county , Mis
souri, where he practiced medicine for several months. In November
1866 he sold his property atMarshall and went to Malta Bend, in the
western part of Saline county . The spring following he, with the
assistance of J. R. Lunbeck , laid out the town of Malta Bend , the
-
-
doctor being the leading spirit in this enterprise and the recognized
founder of this town . He remained at Malta Bend for two years, then
bought a farm two miles south of that place . He lived on this farm
until the fall of 1874 , when he founded the town of Salt Springs, now
on the line of the C. & A. railroad . This was in the summer of 1874 .
He and his brother -in -law , Arthur S. Lawrence , started a store con
taining a general assortment of dry goods and groceries. Remained
at Salt Springs until 1876 when he came to Columbia , Missouri, but
soon after returned to Saline. In 1877 he came to Rocheport , Boone
county , and in the spring of 1878 came to Columbia and practiced his
profession until 1880 , when he bought a farm of 280 acres sevei)
miles northeast of Columbia, on the old Mexico road , and 200 acres
south of the Fulton road . In June, 1882 , he was appointed United
States examining surgeon by W. W. Dudley, commissioner. He and
his wife are members of the Presbyterian church . He is also a Máson .
Was married August 16th , 1866 , to a daughter of Solomon L. and
Harriet S. (Morgan ) Lawrence , of Wilton , Iowa. They have had
three sons and two daughters : Fannie , Sophia D., Bernard , Stewart
(deceased ) and Lawrence . The father of Dr. McNutt died in Ireland
in 1836 and his mother in Iowa in 1873 . Dr. McNutt was the third
child of a family of seven , all of whom , save the youngest , are living .
The doctor , in addition to his medical education , is a fine literary
scholar and a writer of considerable ability . At one time he was
editor of the Dubuque Herald , his brother, Samuel McNutt, being
chief editor .
JOSEPH GRANVILLE NORWOOD , M. D., LL . D.
The subject of this sketch was born in Woodford county , Kentucky,

December 20th , 1807. His father , Charles Norwood , was a native of
Westmoreland county , Virginia , and the son of John Norwood , an
English gentleman , who came to Virginia about the year 1740 .
Charles, the eldest son of John Norwood , was born in 1753 and was
married in 1781 to Ann Dale , of Westmoreland county . He was a
soldier of the revolutionary war. Three sons and two daughters were
born of his marriage : Frederick , John , Frances, Charles and Ann .
Upon the death of his first wife he removed to Kentucky with his
family and a number of relatives. He first settled in Franklin county ,
but after several years he purchased and removed to a farm in Wood
ford , about five miles from Versailles and seventeen from Lexington .
After this removal he married Mildred Dale , a sister of his first wife .
Of the children of this marriage Joseph G. is the only survivor .
During the war of 1812 , Charles Norwood built and operated a

powder mill for the purpose of supplying the American army. In
1815 he moved to a small farm near Lexington where he spent the
remainder of his life, dying in 1832. When quite young the subject
of this sketch became a pupil of the graded school of Aldrich &
Vaughn , at Lexington . It was the fixed purpose of the elder Nor
wood that his son should become a physician , while the boy was
equally deterioined to become a printer . The conflict of wishes
between the father and son resulted in the son being placed with Mr.
Jacob Winn , a private banker and manufacturer of bale - rope and
bagging. He remained with Mr. Winn for one year . The elder
Norwood, recognizing the bent of his son's mind, now made arrange
ments with Mr. John Bradford , of the Lexington Advertiser , by
which he would be allowed to enter his printing office for the purpose
of learning the trade for which he had previously shown such an earn
est predilection . After working several years in this office he
changed to the Kentucky Whig , published by Nelson Nicholas. Mr.
Nicholas died soon after young Norwood entered his office and when
the material was sold he bought it of the administrator , Hon . R.
Hawes. Seeing an opportunity to dispose of the property to good
advantage, young Norwood soon after sold the office and subscription
list to Thomas Smith , editor of the Kentucky Reporter . Mr. Nor
wood now left Lexington and spent nearly a year in travelling in the
Southern and Eastern States, returning in the fall of 1827. Soon after
his return to Kentucky he went to Cincinnati, and purchased material
for a book and job office . There was no lack of work in the way of
books and periodicals and the publishing house soon became a popular
and paying business . In 1830 Mr. Norwood formed a partnership
with James W.Palmer, who insisted on moving the publishing house
to Louisville, which in the end proved to be a serious mistake, as Mr.
Norwood had predicted from the start. Mr. Palmer offered to pur
chase his partner's interest in the business, and his offer was accepted .
Mr. Norwood then entered a commission house , conducted by a rela
tive , but soon found that he knew nothing about the business , with
little inclination to learn . He therefore withdrew from the firm and
returned to Lexington with the fixed determination to devote himself
to the study ofmedicine and the cognate sciences. He accordingly
entered Transylvania College and earnestly applied himself to the
study of medicine. He opened an office at Madison , Indiana, in
March , 1835 , and continued to practice his profession until about the
close of January following, when he returned to Lexington and gradu
ated the spring following. In 1840 he was called to the Madison
Medical Institute and appointed to the chair of surgery . In 1843
he was chosen to fill the chair ofmateria medica , general therapeutics
and medical jurisprudence in the medical department ofthe University
of St. Louis . He remained with this institution until the spring of
1847, when he resigned to accept the place of assistant United States
geologist for the country now embraced in Wisconsin , Iowa , Minne
sota and Dakota . The survey lasted until 1851. In 1851 he
received the appointment of State geologist for Illinois, and contin
ued in this survey until the spring of 1858, when he was removed from
office by the newly elected Republican governor. In the spring of 1858
he was invited by Prof. G. C. Swallow to take the place of an assist
ant in the geological survey of Missouri, and accepted the offer . He
continued in this survey until 1860 , when he was elected to the chair
of natural science in the University of Missouri. He accepted the
place and has been a member of the faculty ever since . He has been
twice married . His first wife was Miss Louisa Taylor , daughter of a
merchant, formerly of Richmond , Virginia . Her mother's maiden
name was Lotspeich , being of Holland origin . Two sons and one
daugbter were born of this marriage. The daughter is living , the
widow of Col. J. A. Hendricks, of Indiana,who was killed at Pea Ridge .
The eldest son died of small-pox in 1831. Mrs. Norwood and her
youngest son died of cholera , at Lexington , Kentucky , in 1833. In
1837 Dr. Norwood was married to Mary Frances, a daughter of Mr.
John Pugh , of Madison , Indiana. Three sons and five daughters
were born of this marriage . Two of the sons and one daughter died
in infancy . The third and youngest son , Charles J. Norwood , was
for some years engaged in the State geological surveys of Missouri
and Kentucky, and was formerly professor ofnatural science in Bethel
College, at Russellville , Kentucky. He is now editor of the Herald
Enterprise , Russellville, Kentucky . He married Miss Sallie White ,
daughter of Hon . Dougherty White , of Lancaster , Kentucky. Four
of the daughters of this last marriage are living, and three of them are
married. Louise is the wife of Mr. Overton A. Fitch , of Madison ,
Indiana. They have one child , now in his sixteenth year . Eliza
Boone is the wife of Mr. Henry McConathy, of Columbia . They have
four children , two sons and two daughters. Emina is the wife of
John D. Vincil, D. D., of St. Louis . They have one son . In the
· 920 HISTORY OF BOONE COUNTY .
year 1862, during the occupancy of the University. building by Federal

troops, Dr. Norwood visited the building every day and remained
there protecting the property of the University . It may be well to
say that, during these years , he has the reputation of having always
done his duty according to his 'strength and ability .
JAMES C. ORR .
James Carson Orr , the present county collector of Boone county ,

was born in Washington county , Virginia , September 8 , 1824. At
the age of eight years he went with his father's family to Sullivan
county , Tennesee, where he resided until he was about 20 years of age
( or in 1844 ) , when he came to Boone county , settling at Rocheport .
Here he engaged in merchandising for some years . In the winter of
1858–9 he removed to Columbia , which has been his home ever since.
When he first came to Columbia he was deputy sheriff under John M.
Samuel. During the civil war Mr. Orr took no active part. His sym
pathies , however , were with the Southern people , and he was placed
under bonds by the Federal authorities for his “ good behavior ."
In 1866 Mr. Orr was elected sheriff and collector of the county ,
which position he held for six years , or until 1873. In 1876 he was
again elected sheriff and served one term of two years . In 1880 he
was elected county collector . The frequent elevation and reëlection
of Mr. Orr to positions of trust and responsibility proves the estima
tion in which he is held by his fellow - citizens who know him best .
November 2 , 1848, Mr. Orr married Mary Thornton , a native of
Kentucky. They have four children , one son , John, a clerk and book
keeper , and three daughters , viz. : Cornelia J., now Mrs. Charles A.
Miller ; Ida, wife of N. B. Elkins, both of Columbia ; and Minnie , sin
gle . Mr. and Mrs. Orr are members of the M. E. Church South .
Mr. Orr is a prominent Mason , having taken all the degrees of the
order up to and including the Knight Templars . He is generalissimo
of the commandery at present , and has twice been master of the lodge.
He is also a Knight of Pythias and a Good Templar .
The father of the subject hereof was John Orr , a native of Penn
sylvania , and a soldier in the war of 1812. His father was a native
of Ireland , and his mother was born in “ bonnie Scotland .”
FREDERICK PANNELL .
The subject of this sketch is a native of England , having been born

in London , February 18 , 1830. He is the son of Charles and Mary
HISTORY OF BOONE COUNTY : 921
Ann (Sparr ) Pannell . Was educated at Graveshead, where he at

tended St. John's College . Hewas chorister at St. John's Cathedral.
Came to the United States in the fall of 1850, stopping for the first
year at Quincy , Illinois . He next went to Hannibal, Missouri,where
he was engaged as a teacher of music . He afterwards travelled and
taught music in almost every city of consequence in the West . In
1858 he came to Columbia , and was professor of music in Christian
College for two years . In 1879 he bought an interest in the
Columbia Mills , and has been one of that firm ever since .
married , in Christian College , by President Rogers , November 16 ,
1860 , to Miss Fannie E., daughter of George and Ann Milton ,
natives of Virginia . Six children were born of this marriage , five
sons and one daughter : Charles F., born October 16 , 1861 ; Al
fred K., born January 18 , 1865 ; William M., born June 8 , 186- ; Ed
ward F., born December 10 , 1870 ; Eva , born August 17 , 1873 , and died
October 21st, 1874 , and George H., born January 18 , 1876. Charles
received his education at Christian College. The other children are
attending the University . The oldest son , Charles F., is now a mem
ber of the firm of Trimble, Fyfer & Co., Columbia , Missouri. Не.
went into the store as cash boy at the age of fifteen or sixteen . Mr.
. Pannell is a well-informed , practical man , energetic and thoroughly
in earnest in all his undertakings . He is a very fine musician and a
composer of acknowledged ability . Some of his band music has gone
the rounds of the entire country. He has frequently heard his music
played in strange places and by strange musicians, note by note as he
had written and played it, years before in teaching his classes.
JUDGE ALEXANDER PERSINGER , DECEASED .
It is a matter of much regret that the material for a life- sketch of

so worthy a subject as Judge Persinger should have been supplied at
so laté a period before going to press as to necessitate only a brief
mention of that distinguished man . Yet such frequent mention is
made of him elsewhere in this work , that this and that will suffice where -
lack of space so compels it . Judge Persinger was the son of Jacob Per
singer , a name given the latter by the gentleman of that name in Bo
tetourt county , Virginia , who adopted Jacob when a captive among the
Shawnee Indians. Alexander was born in Botetourt county , Virginia ,
July 11 , 1790. He enjoyed but limited school privileges, and was
largely self-educated . He served , when a young man , in the war of
1812 , and subsequently came to Illinois , and then , in 1818 , came to
Missouri and settled in Montgomery county , where he resided till

1829 , when he came to Boone county , making his home here till the
day of his death . Though he spent many years in public office , he
never in his life asked or sought for any public trust . He was first
appointed judge of Montgomery county in about 1821, by Gov. Fred .
Bates, and the appointment was made without even the judge's
knowledge . He yielded to the importunities of his friends, however ,
and accepted the trust which he so faithfully discharged . He was
twice elected and served that county in the legislature, and did simi
lar service one term for Boone county. For eighteen years he served the
latter as county court judge, and it was as presiding justice of that
court that he achieved his most enduring fame. No man ever graced
the position with more dignity , or filled it to the better interest of the
county. Judge Persinger had been married , while living in Mont
gomery county , to a Miss Simpson , by whom he had two children ,
James B. Persinger , who died on his way to California in 1850 , and
Mrs. Sallie A., who died in 1870 , the wife of James E. Johnston , of
Columbia . His first wife died in Montgomery county , and he was
again married in 1830 , to Mrs. Elizabeth Spence , widow of John M.
Spence , though no children were born of this union .
Judge Persinger died at the residence of his son -in -law , James E.
Johnston , in Columbia , Missouri, September 2 , 1875 , in the eighty
sixth year of his age . Since 1836 he had been a member of the
Christian Church , and died triumphant in the hope of immortality .
A gentleman of Columbia who knew him well, says of him in an obit
uary sketch : “ The Alexander Persinger who so recently tottered with
trembling steps to an honored grave , is dead ! His mortality will
decay and go back again to the cold , dull earth ; but that high-souled ,
chivalric body, descended from Revolutionary loins , who twice bared
his young bosom to the storms of relentless war waged against
his weak and struggling country ; that bold young pioneer who made
our wilderness bloom ere Missouri became a star in the constella
tion of States ; that sanguine legislator whose prudence , wisdom and
industry contributed so largely in constructing the foundations of our
;
jurisprudence and civilization ; that austere , wise , patient , laborious ,

learned , incorruptible judge , whose long, eventful, righteous , pros
perous and happy administration of justice so signally blessed and
elevated our people , still lives, and will live on through ages until
gratitude shall cease to abide in the well -springs of the human heart,
and generous appreciation be banished from the human soul. Pure,
great, good old man ! The tearful gratitude and love of a whole
people bid you farewell.”
JAMES L. PRUETTE .
James L. Pruette , proprietor of the Columbia tobacco store, is the

son of James and Permelia (White ) Pruette . He was born Novem
ber 8 , 1817 , in the city of Frankfort , Kentucky, where he was raised
and educated . He served an apprenticeship at the tailor's trade,
working four years at the business . When about seventeen years
old he left his native State and commenced his travels , and for the
next forty years was continuously on the move, visiting almost every
State of the Union , Canada, Mexico and the tropics . In 1850 he
went to California and remained there for two or three years , then
came back to the States . Returning to California in 1861, he re
mained there until 1867, when he came to Columbia and went into the
grocery trade with Robert Shock Sold out his interest in 1875 and
bought the tobacco and cigar store of J. M. Baker , and has remained
in this business ever since . Previous to this he was weigh-master of
Columbia for one year . The citizens of Columbia put him in posses
sion of the tobacco store, and he wishes to express his profound
gratitude and hearty appreciation of their kindness . At his death he
means to give all that he may then possess to the poor of Columbia .
He has built up a good trade, congenial to his taste and sufficiently
remunerative to make him independent and comfortable . March 12,
1871, he united with the Methodist Church South , under the preach
ing of Rev. John D. Vincil. He has been a consistent , conscientious
member ever since . His father and mother are both dead . His
father died when he was an infant. His mother died in 1832.
ROBERT THOMAS PREWITT (DECEASED . )
The subject of this sketch was the son of Moss and Nancy ( John
son ) Prewitt. He was born in Columbia , Missouri, July 23d , 1845 ,
and was educated at the State University , graduating from that
institution June 28th , 1865 , with the degree of A. M. He was
married , September 7th , 1869, to Miss Sallie W., youngest daughter
of Woodson G. and Lucy J. Rubey, of Columbia . They had three
daughters, one of whom , Iza , a lovely child of six years, died of
diphtheria in 1876 , The surviving children are Laura R. and Lucille
D. Mr. Prewitt was, until his health failed him , an active , energetic
man . In 1866 he engaged in the mercantile business in Columbia ,
being a partner in the firm of Moss & Prewitt. He remained in this :

business until 1875 , when he left the store in the hope of restoring
his health by travelling. He visited the South , spending several
years in Florida and Texas, but to little purpose . He returned to
Columbia in feeble health , and gradually grew worse until he quietly
breathed his last , May 25th , 1880. He was a member of the Baptist
church , and an earnest , devoted Christian . He did much for the cause
of religion , contributing liberally of his means and laboring
personally for that faith which was ever dear to his heart . He was.
deacon of the church , and for a number of years superintendent of the
Baptist Sunday school, and an active member of the Young Men's
Christian Association . He was also one of the trustees of Stephens
College. He was a zealous worker in the cause of education and
temperance ; in fact , every cause calculated to benefit the human race
found in him an earnest supporter. Moss Prewitt , the father of
Robert was, in his day, one of the most successful business men of
Columbia , and his son inherited many of the elements of character
which achieved such signal prosperity for his father in the commercial
Robert Prewitt, though cut off in the morning of
activities of life .
promising young manhood, yet lived long enough to establish a
character for virtue, devotion to principle and conscientious and
unswerving maintenance of conviction of duty , whose influence will be
felt long after his name and life shall have faded from the memories
of men .
GEORGE COOLEY PRATT . .
The subject of this memoir was born on the 13th of January, 1815 ,
at what is now known as East Longmeadow , in the county of Hamp
den and State of Massachusetts . His father , grandfather and great
grandfather were large farmers , and lovers of fat cattle and fine
horses . His grandfather was a soldier in the great revolution of 1776 ,
serving under Washington through that long and bloody war, which
finally terminated in the liberation of the American colonists from
British rule ; and his grandmother , whose maiden name had been
Mary Cooley , was one of the young wives of that heroic generation
who encouraged the patriotic devotion of their husbands.
Mr. Pratt's school education was obtained at the district school
in his father's neighborhood , the “ high school ” at Springfield ,
the “ academy ” at Westfield , and the college at Amherst , from
which latter institution he holds the diploma of master of arts .
In 1836 Mr. Pratt entered upon the profession of civil engineering,
being employed on city work , on the survey of Fox river in Wisconsin

for the Federal Government, and on the location of the railway from
Hartford , Conn ., to Springfield , Mass . In the first and second of
these engagements he served under a French engineer who had been
lieutenant -colonel in the Imperial Guard of the great Napoleon .
In August , 1841, he came to Missouri ; in January , 1842, he was
appointed professor of languages in Bonne Femme College in Boone
county , and on the 22d of December of the same year , he was
married to Sarah Maria , daughter of William Shields , Esq ., of that
neighborhood. On the 15th of June, 1843, he was appointed
assistant to Robert S. Thomas , professor of languages in the State
University at Columbia , and on the 6th of September of the same
year, Prof. Thomas was made professor of metaphysics, logic , etc.,
and Mr. Pratt was appointed professor of ancient and modern
languages . Here he taught the Latin , Greek , French and, on one
occasion , the Spanish , languages for seven years ; and , in 1850 , he
resigned his position and went across the plains to California . The
country , from the western boundary of Missouri to the waters of the
Sacramento river , in California , was then entirely uninhabited , except
by Indians. After spending a year in the gold mines,'he returned by
way of Central America , Havana and New York , arriving at home in
January , 1852. In the spring and summer of that year he assisted
his father-in -law in re-surveying a portion of the boundary line
between Missouri and Iowa, and closing up the land lines to the State
line on both sides of the same.
The construction of railroads having commenced in the State of Mis
souri, Mr Pratt, in the autumn of 1852, resumed his old profession of
civil engineering, taking employment at the time on the MissouriPacific
Railroad , and during the next twenty years , i.e., till 1872 , he was
engaged for most of the time in the location and construction of rail
roads , principally in Missouri, but doing some work in Iowa, in
Kansas and in Arkansas. While on the Pacific railroad , he also
located and superintended the construction of the old plank road from
Columbia to Providence in 1854–5 , and while engineer of the
Columbia Branch railroad , he also located the turnpikes from
Columbia to Rocheport, to Ashland and to Cedar Creek in 1867. So
also , while engineer of the Helena and Iron Mountain railroad , he
superintended the construction of a levee on the Mississippi river
below Helena , in 1871 .
When the board of railroad commissioners for the State of
Missouri was organized , April 27th , 1875 , Mr. Pratt was appointed
the secretary of that commission , which position he held until January
10th , 1881, when he was commissioned as railroad commissioner for
six years, having been elected for that office at the general election
held November 20 , 1880 , at which election he received the largest
vote given in Missouri for any candidate, either State or Federal.
Mr. Pratt has been a resident of Boone county ever since 1842 ,
and of Columbia since 1843.
DR . G. W. RIGGINS.
The subject of this notice was born February 16th , 1825 , on a farm
part of which was in Callaway and part in Boone county , Missouri,
the house being in Callaway ; he, therefore, is a native of that county .
His father , Joseph Riggins, was born in North Carolina,but when quite
a young man emigrated to Kentucky, where he married Miss Barzillia
Lawless, the mother of the doctor . They lived in Kentucky for sev
eral years and in 1816 came to Missouri and located in Howard county ,
and built the first cabin where the town of Old Franklin was
afterwards built . The site of the present city of Boonville , opposite
the town of Old Franklin , was then a dense thicket, and the Indians
roamed the forest and killed the settlers at their own sweet will. Mr.
Riggins had no neighbors nearer than the forts above and below his
cabin , at too great a distance to afford his constant protection . Several
of his neighbors were killed by the Indians , after the neighborhood
had become more thickly settled . He lived at Old Franklin about
four years and then bought the farm upon which the doctor was born .
He shortly afterwards moved to Cole county , Missouri, where he died
in 1849 in his seventy -third year . His widow survived him several
years and died at the residence of her son , John M. Riggins, of Saline
county , Missouri, at the age of eighty years. Dr. G. W. Riggins was
educated in Cole county , Missouri. He studied medicine with Dr.
Wm . Bolton of that county , and afterwards he took the medical
course at McDowell's College , St. Louis. It was connected with the
State University during his first year's lectures there , but before his
graduation , in 1849, the connection had been severed.
In 1846 Dr. Riggins enlisted in Capt. Monroe M.Parsons' company,
Doniphan's regiment, and served in the Mexican war, being mustered
in at Ft. Leavenworth . The history of this regiment is fully set forth
on other pages. The doctor was a participant in all of its engage
ments , marches , skirmishes, etc. After the battle of Sacramento ,
Col. Doniphan appointed Dr. Riggins assistant surgeon of the regi

ment. At that time he was but a private soldier . He refused to ac
cept the appointment and was then detailed to take charge of the
wounded , which he did .
Returning to his home in Cole county he practiced medicine for three
years, when he removed to Callaway county and continued the practice
until the breaking out of the war. He took sides at once with the
Confederacy and went into the State Guard under ex-Governor, after
ward Maj.-Gen . Sterling Price and commanded a battalion of Calla
way county's best soldiers . At the reörganization of the army at
Memphis, he, upon the urgent solicitation of Gen. Price, went into
the medical department. He went to Jackson and Mobile , and pro
He
cured large stores of supplies for the sanitary needs of Price's army.
continued in that department until the bright star of the Confederate
Government set to rise no more When the war closed he had charge
of a hospital near Shreveport, Louisiana . He remained at Shreve
port, practicing his profession , until 1874 , being there in the yellow
fever epidemic of 1873, when he had charge of a number of cases .
Hemade up his mind never to undergo another siege of the terrible
Yellow Jack , and in 1874 came to Columbia , Boone county , Missouri.
He abandoned the practice of medicine and speculated in tobacco for
about a year and then opened a family grocery store and sold goods
for several years . In the fall of 1881 he went to Texas and engaged
in business there , but soon sold out and returned to Columbia , and in
partnership with a gentleman named Moore, opened a carriage factory
under the firm name of Moore , Riggins & Co. Dr. Riggins was a
practicing physician of Jefferson City during the terrible scourge of
cholera there in the years 1850–51. He was the first physician called
upon to attend the stricken . Men fell upon the streets with the
plague and died before they could be taken into a house. Dr. Riggins
has been married twice, the first time in 1849, to Miss Tennessee
Matthews Dean , daughter of John Dean of Jefferson City , Missouri.
This union was blest by four children , Augusta B., George, William
and Emmett. Augusta B., has been married twice . Her first hus
band was Wesley Cates, and her second was Dr. John A. Malcoum .
She is now a widow and lives at Denison, Texas. George is now in
New Mexico . William died at Vicksburg , Mississippi, in 1863. Em
mett lives in Columbia . Dr. R.'s first wife died in 1866. Hewas mar
ried the second time in 1870 , to Mrs Winans, widow of Col. Winans,
who was killed during the war , and a daughter of W. W. Harper , of
Boone county . By this marriage they have one child , Mary Harper
Riggins. The doctor is a member of the Masonic order , holding his
membership at Twilight lodge, No. 114 , at Columbia. He and his
wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South .
JOHN DE WILTON ROBINSON .

John De Wilton Robinson is the son of B. F. Robinson , of South
Carolina, one of the early settlers of Boone county , and a member of
the Columbia bar, now residing at Dallas , Texas. His mother's
maiden name was Frances De Wilton McLanahan , also a native of
South Carolina . John was born in Boone county , city of Columbia ,
June 27 , 1834. He grew up in this county and received his education
at the State University, graduating in the class of 1853. He studied
law under Judge F. P. Wright of Warsaw , Missouri, and was admit
ted to the bar of that place in 1854, Hon . Waldo P. Johnson and
Judge Ballou being his examiners. Locating at Kansas City , he prac
ticed there till 1861, four years of which time he served as city
attorney .
Mr. Robinson came of a race of Southern people, and, when the civil
troubles began , naturally he espoused the cause of the Confederacy ,
and staked his all upon the issue in favor of the sunny South . In
1861 he made tours to the southern part of Missouri in the interest of
the cause . He joined Rucker's company in August, 1862 , and soon
afterwards figured in the famous Poindexter's raid . He was in the
actions at Switzler's mill and Compton's ferry on Grand river .
After the command disbanded , he was taken prisoner by the Federals
in this county and held nine months, the time being divided between
Columbia , St. Louis , Cairo , Camp Douglas , and other Federal pris
ons , during which he endured all the privations and indignities of a
prisoner of war . In the spring of 1863 he was exchanged at City
Point , Virginia , and joined McKinney's battalion and was sent to
Pemberton's army in Mississippi. He arrived there eight days before
the siege of Vicksburg opened . He was transferred to Lowe's bat
tery (afterwards Dawson's ) and was in the battles of Baker's Creek ,
Big Black , siege of Vicksburg , Mission Ridge , Kelly's Cross Roads,
La., defence of Mobile and other fights and skirmishes . He had been
captured at Vicksburg , but was released on parole and was in the
service at the time of the surrender . He served as private “ No. 4
on the gun," and never lost three days during the entire period of his
service except while a prisoner . After the war he returned to Mis
JOSEPH K. ROGERS, LL . D.
souri and bought a farm in Howard county , which he operated four

years. He then went to Rocheport, and after remaining two years,
moved back to Columbia , where he has been ever since engaged in
the practice of the law . In 1880 , he was elected county attorney
on the Democratic ticket, which office he still holds, and has en
deavored always to do his duty without fear or favor . Mr. Robin
son was married July 5 , 1854 , to Miss Sallie Bedford , a native of
Boone county and the first graduate of Christian College, being the
valedictorian of 1853 . They have had two children Fanvie De
Wilton , wife of Bemm Scott, of Clark county , and Benjamin F. Mr.

and Mrs. Robinson are both members of the Christian Church . Mr.
R. is also a member of the Masonic fraternity , and belongs to the blue
lodge and chapter .
JOSEPH KIRTLEY ROGERS , A. B. , A. M., LL . D.
The subject of this sketch was born in Fayette county , Kentucky ,

November 19 , 1828. His ancestry emigrated from England to Vir
ginia , and thence to Kentucky soon after the Boone settlements there .
They located subsequently at Bryan Station , and members of the fam
ily are now scattered through all the Western States . His father and
mother , William and Frances Rogers , removed to Missouri in the fall

of 1830 , and settled upon a farm about ten miles west of Palmyra ,
the county seat of Marion county . In this frontier land, where the
tracks of the retiring red man were fresh in the soil and the embers
of his camp -fires still smouldered in the forests , he spent his child
hood and youth . He grew up amid the trials and struggles of a new
country , which inure to hardships and train to habits of industry and
self-reliance .
His education was commenced in the traditional frontier " log
school house " with “ puncheon floor," " slab, seats,” and a log cut
out for a window . Mr. Noah Flood , subsequently a prominent min
ister of the Baptist faith in Missouri, presided over this school. Af
ter leaving the country school he attended a private school at Phila
delphia , Marion county, Missouri, taught by F. T. Kemper , one of
the best educators in the State , and then entered Masonic College,
Marion county , Missouri, presided over at that time by G. J. Worth
ington Smith , of Virginia . Archibald Patterson was professor of
mathematics. He remained here two and a half years, making good
progress in Latin and mathematics , and in the fall of 1850 entered
Missouri University at Columbia , and graduated July 4 , 1853, in the
59
course of arts with the degree of A. B. He received the honorary de

gree of A. M. in 1856 , and the degree of LL . D. on May 31 , 1882 .
He was a very industrious student and accomplished the work in three
years that was allotted for four years at the University , and thereby
impaired his health which he never regained . In the fall of 1854 he
opened the St. Joseph Female Academy at St. Joseph , Missouri, and
successfully managed it two years, and then , owing to his feeble
health , he gave up the school and returned to Columbia .
In 1856 he accepted a position as professor in Christian College ,
Columbia , under L. B. Wilkes , the president of the institution . In
July , 1858, upon the resignation of President Wilkes, Mr. Rogers
was elected his successor as president of Christian College . He held
this important and arduous position , discharging its duties with signal
ability and success until July , 1877 , when , on account of impaired
health , he resigned . The popularity of the school during this time
was all its most enthusiastic friends could desire , and more than its
best and most substantial friends expected.
Having taken charge of Christian College in 1858, the school had
just arrived at a happy and prosperous period when the war broke
out. And though at a loss financially , President Rogers stood faith
fully by his school with a competent corps of teachers, never losing a
day or swerving from duty .
In August, 1855 , he was married to Miss Jennie E., daughter Cap
tain Archibald S. and Amanda Robards, of Hannibal, Missouri, an
accomplished and cultured lady , who afterwards became a most im .
portant aid and co -worker with him in his protracted and laborious
educational work .
She now resides on the homestead in Columbia , living on an ample
competence left by her husband to ber and her family . Her family
consist of Lenoir S. and A. Bowen Rogers, who are now in business
in New Mexico , and Fanny and her husband, A. B. Holland , Jennie
M., and R. Estell live with her .
After he resigned his presidency he made several trips to the far
West with hope of regaining his lost health , and had only returned
the morning of the day of his death , which occurred at 12 o'clock at
night, August 24th , 1882, at his residence in Columbia .
Immediately after his death there was a spontaneous move on the
part of the citizens of Columbia and vicinity to honor the man whom
they loved, which resulted in the following meetings, where appro
priate and lengthy resolutions were passed expressive of the sense of
the respective assemblies, viz . : Board of trustees of Christian Col

lege ; executive committee of the board of curators of the University
of the State of Missouri ; a meeting of the citizens of Columbia and
vicinity held at the court-house in Columbia ; and also a meeting of his
pupils held at the Christian church , where there were scores present,
some who had sat under his instruction when he was a professor in
Christian College twenty -five years ago, whose locks are now silvered
with gray , and some who attended later . The classes of little boys of
long ago had their representatives in the staunchest citizens of to - day .
All ages, ranging over the entire time of his connection with the col
lege, were there to do him honor . And those who knew him best
loved him most , and to them the recollection of his words are per
petual benedictions.
WILLIAM I. ROBERTS .
William I. Roberts , city marshal, Columbia , Missouri, is the son of

Dr. William R. and Mary E. (Brown ) Roberts , natives of Virginia .
The subject of this sketch was born in Augusta county , Virginia ,
June 27th , 1847, and came with his parents to Rocheport, Boone
county , Missouri, June 5th , 1859. Completed his education at the
Rocheport Academy, under the instructions of Prof. Newton Searcy ,
one of the ablest educators of the country . Enlisted in the Confed
erate service in the fall of 1862 under Col. Poindexter , and partici
pated in the raid known by his name. Was captured and taken to St.
Louis, where he was confined in McDowell's College , and afterwards
at Alton . Was released from prison in the spring of 1863 , and in
the fall of 1864 reënlisted in Company E , Searcy's battalion . Was
afterwards transferred to the ordnance department and was assistant
ordnance sergeant up to the close of the war. Surrendered at
Shreveport , Louisiana, and was paroled at Alexandria . Returning to
his home in Rocheport , he was engaged as a clerk by H. H. Garth .
Was appointed marshal of the town in 1867, and was city weigh
master and agent for the Rocheport stage line. July 18th , 1866 , he
started to cross the plains, but went no further than Nebraska , return
ing home July 12th , 1867. Was again appointed marshal of the
town, which position he held until 1870 .
In February , 1870, he
came to Columbia and took charge of the Columbia Hotel , on Broad
way , which he conducted for one year, For the next three years he
clerked in different stores and acted as agent for the Rocheport ferry
and stage line ; was appointed city marshal, July 16th , 1874 , and
was re-appointed in 1876 , holding the office continuously ever since .
He is a member of the Presbyterian church , and belongs to the order

of United Workmen ; also K. of P. He was married , October 5th ,
1870 , to Miss Mintie , daughter of George and Amanda Knox . By
this marriage they have one son and one daughter, Reuben K. and
Mary B. Mrs. Roberts is a member of the Presbyterian church .
The father of Mrs. Roberts twice represented this county in the legis
lature and was a prominent business man of Rocheport . He died some
time in 1847 or 1848 . Mr. Roberts has as an official as well as in
private life , won the esteem and confidence of the entire community in
which he lives . His excellent judgment and cool determination in
dealing with the lawless class stamps him as eminently fitted for the
duties of his important and dangerous office .
JOHN ROGERS, JR .
The subject of this sketch is probably entitled to the distinction of

being the oldest citizen now living in Boone county , and , notwithstand
ing his great age , he is still a healthy , vigorous old man . With all
his faculties unimpaired , he looks serenely backward to the time when
steam was unknown as a motive power , and steamboats and locomo
tives had not been dreamed of. He gazes backward over an extinct
world of human beings. Of all the millions of men and women who
were breathing the breath of life when he was ushered into this world ,
three figures , side by side, would more than express the number who
linger still upon the shores of time. What a wonderful vista ! How
remarkable the view through all those changeful years , from 1792 to
1882 — four -score and ten years ! John Rogers , Jr., was born in .
Culpepper county , Virginia , March 14th , 1792. His father, Johu
Rogers, Sr., was born in England, and emigrated to the United States
long before the revolutionary war . He afterwards removed to Harri
son county , Kentucky, where he died in 1821 , at the age of seventy
three years. 'His wife , Nancy (Gregg ) Rogers, was born in Stafford
county , Virginia , and died in Harrison county , Kentucky, at the
advanced age of ninety -seven years . John Rogers , Jr., came to
Kentucky with his parents, and in 1817 went to St. Louis county ,
Missouri, where he remained one year , going from there to Pike
county , Missouri, where he remained three years . Previous to
coming to Missouri Mr. Rogers was married to Mary , daughter of

Edmund Mountjoy, of Bourbon county , Kentucky . By this mar
riage they had nine children , four sons and five daughters , only
one of whom , John M. Rogers, of Pike county , is now living . Mr.
Rogers came to Columbia in 1821. There was at that time but
one store in the place , A. J. Williams, proprietor. The hotel was

kept by Gentry. Eld . James Barnes was then sheriff of Boone county .
Mr. Rogers has a vivid recollection of the first Fourth of July cele
bration he ever attended at Columbia . The day was honored by a
barbecue just east of Flat Branch . There was no speaking . The
young men amused themselves with foot races , jumping and wrestling.
Mr. Rogers settled on a farm about four miles south of Centralia ,
where he remained for four years , then returned to Pike county ,
where his wife died , January 19th , 1877 , in the eightieth year of her
age. Returning to Columbia , he was married , December 6th , 1877 , to
Mrs. Mary E.Moody. Since his marriage he has resided in Columbia .
Mrs. Rogers died June 25th , 1882, leaving one daughter, by the last
marriage, aged one year and eight months. Mr. Rogers was first a
member of the Baptist church , having united with that denomination
under the preaching of Rev. Benjamin Allen in 1814. In 1819 he
joined the Christian church in Pike county , Missouri, under the
preaching of Eld . Stephen Ruddle, at Ramsey's Creek church . He
is a close student of the Bible . He believes that every great event in
the world's history is either narrated or foretold by the inspired
authors of Holy Writ. He holds that our civil war , also the assas
sination of President Lincoln , is foretold , and can cite to the chapter
and verse .
He is a fluent talker , and on such topics as he takes an
interest in is quite entertaining .
HON . JAMES S. ROLLINS, LL. D.

James S. Rollins is a native of Richmond , Madison County , Ken
tucky, where he was born April 19th , 1812. His paternal grand
father was a native of Ireland . His father , Dr. Anthony Wayne
Rollins, was a prominent physician . His mother, whose maiden
name was Rodes, was a native of Albemarle county , Virginia . Maj.
Rollins had six brothers and sisters, all of whom are dead , except his
youngest sister , who is the wife of Hon . Curtis F. Burnam , a former
assistant secretary of the United States treasury .
In early youth Maj. Rollins pursued an academic course in his
1 So much has been written and published of Major Rollins, and such frequentmention
is made of him and his connection with Boone county in the general history of this volume,
that a condensed sketch is deemed sufficient for the purposes of this work . Indeed , to pub
lish anything like a complete biography of so distinguished a subject would require a volume
in itself, and far transcend the limits of this publication .
native town, and in 1827 entered Washington College, Pennsylvania ,

but at the end of the junior year, he left this institution and entered
the University of Indiana, at Bloomington , where he graduated in
1830. His parents having removed to Boone county , Maj. Rollins ,
after graduating , joined them . Coniing to Missouri, he took charge
of his father's plantation for one year . He then read law under Hon .
Abiel Leonard , and spent two years at the Transylvania Law School
Lexington , Ky., where he graduated in 1834. He at once entered upon
the duties of his profession at Columbia , Missouri. During the Black
Hawk war he served for about six months on the staff of Gen.
Richard Gentry . In 1836 Maj. Rollins and his law partner, Thomas
FELIS
HET
JK
PHOTO NG
RESIDENCE OF HON. JAMES S. ROLLINS, COLUMBIA , Mo.
Miller, became editors of the Columbia Patriot, a Whig paper , which

they conducted for several years .
In 1836 Maj. Rollins attended a railroad convention at St. Louis ,
the first ever held in the State , and as chairman of the committee on
resolutions , drafted and submitted a memorial to Congress asking for
a grant of public lands to aid in constructing public works, which the
convention favored .
Mr. Rollins was married June 6th , 1837 , to Miss Mary E. Hickman ,
a native of Howard county . They have had eleven children , eight of
whom are living . The oldest son , James H. Rollins, is a graduate of

West Point and a captain in the U. S. regular army.
Maj. Rollins commenced his public career in 1838 as the Whig
candidate for the legislature. He was elected , and, though quite
young , took an active part in the deliberations of that body. During
the sessions of 1838–39 he was very active in regard to educational
matters , and drafted , introduced and ably advocated the bill to found
and endow the State University of Missouri. He was reëlected in
1840. During both his terms of service in the legislature he was

energetic and earnest in the advocacy of the prosecution of internal
improvements, and especially the building of railroadsand the improve
ments of rivers at public expense . He.cast his first vote for president
in 1836 , for General Harrison . In 1844 he was a delegate to the
he was
Baltimore Convention which nominated Henry Clay for president.
During this campaign he made many effective speeches in support of
Mr. Clay. Two years following he was elected to the State Senate ,
and was the leading advocate of the bill to establish the first lunatic
asylum at Fulton . In 1848 he was the Whiy candidate for governor ,
and polled a vote far in excess of the usual strength of his party ,
although defeated by Hon . Austin A. King . In the general assembly
of 1847–49, Maj. Rollins was the Whig candidate for the United
States Senate , but the large Democratic majority precluded all hope
of his election . In 1854 he was again elected to the legislature,
during which session he boldly opposed the extension of slavery into
the territories. He voted for Col. Doniphan for the Uvited States
Senate and made an eloquent speech in support of his favorite can
didate . In 1857 Maj. Rollins was again the Whig candidate for
governor to fill the vacancy caused by the election of Governor Polk
to the United States Senate . His opponent in this race was Hon . R.
M. Stewart . They made a joint canvass of the State and the excite
ment was very great. Stewart was declared elected by two hundred
and thirty votes , but many of Maj. Rollins's friends thought that he
was really elected . At all events, it was a glorious triumph for the
Whig candidate who had pushed a forlorn hope to the very verge of
victory . In 1860 he was elected to congress from the 9th district .
He supported Bell and Everett, while his opponent, Hon . John B.
Henderson, supported Douglass and Johnson . He took his seat in the
special term called by President Lincoln to convene July 4th , 1861,
to take measures to suppress the rebellion . He at once. took sides
with the union. He made many thrilling and effective speeches both
in the halls of congress and elsewhere in behalf of the union . He was

an active and able supporter of the bill to provide for agricultural
colleges in the different States by a grant of public lands. February
5th , 1862 , he introduced a bill to aid in the construction of a railroad and
IBRE
telegraph line from the Missouri river to the Pacific. This bill, with some
RESIDENCE
J.OLUMBIA
ROLLINS
CAPT
OF
H.
.,M
C O
on I
amendments became a law in July , 1862, and under its provisions the
Union Pacific , Central Pacific and Kansas Pacific railroads were built
across the continent. He voted for and advocated the adoption of
the thirteenth amendment to the Constitution , abolishing slav
ery in the United States, although at the time he was probably the
largest slave owner in Boone county . This amendment had been in

troduced in the United States senate by Hon . John B. Henderson , of
Missouri. Maj. Rollins delivered a powerful speech during this ses
sion in favorof freedom of speech and in opposition to the expulsion of
Mr. Long , of Ohio , for expressing disunion sentiments in the House
of Representatives . Major Rollins declined a reëlection to congress
in 1864 , and returned to his home in Columbia . In 1866 he was
again sent to the legislature , and during this session was engaged in
revising the statutes of the State , to adapt them to the new Constitu
tion adopted in 1865. He was also greatly interested in perfecting
the common school system of the State and the rehabilitation of the
State University upon a firm and enduring basis, it having been broken
up during the war . He introduced and secured the passage of a bill
establishing a normal department in the State University , and to pro
vide for rebuilding the president's house , which had been destroyed
by fire. In 1867 President Johnson appointed him a director of the
Union Pacific Railroad Company, which he accepted , but resigned in
1868. In the latter year he was again elected to the State senate, re
ceiving a very decided majority of the votes cast, but his seat was
contested . After a long and severe contest he was seated , notwith
standing a majority of senators were opposed to him politically .
During this session of the senate Maj. Rollins introduced a bill to es
' tablish an agricultural and mechanical college , endowed with 330,000
acres of land granted by the general government to the State for that
purpose . This measure, after extended and animated discussions in
two legislatures, became a law after being amended so as to give
one - fourth of the lands to the School of Mines at Rolla . He is also
the author of the law cutting down the initiation fees to the State Uni
versity , making that institution substantially free to the sons and
daughters of Missouri.
Aside from being one of the largest subscribers to the fund to se
cure the location of the University at Columbia , Maj. Rollins has been
the author and chief advocate of every important bill passed by the
legislature providing for or adding to the maintenance and advance
ment of Missouri's greatest school. No wonder he has received the
title of " Father of the University of Missouri.” The history of the
University , given on other pages of this volume, sets forth , in part, his
services in behalf of the institution . Mr. Rollins is also the author
of the laws creating the State Normal Schools at Kirksville and
Warrensburg , having reported then , when chairman of the com
mittee on education , to the legislature , and warmly advocated their

passage .
Space forbids the enumeration of the many public acts and services
of Maj. Rollins in behalf of his country , his State , his county
and his town . Suffice it to say that he has been foremost in every
good work , and that his hand, his purse and his brain have ever been
at the service of his people in every laudable undertaking. Mr.
Rollins is now in the sere and yellow leaf of life —
And that which should accompany old age,
As honor, love , obedience, troops of friends,
He has in great abundance. He spends his time chiefly in retirement

in his elegant home in the suburbs of Columbia , a view of which is
shown elsewhere , and his chief delight is the entertainment of the
many friends who call upon him . Two of bis sons, Curtis B. and
George Bingham , and an accomplished daughter, are at home with
their father and mother, and there is not a happier household in
all Missouri than the one whose honored head bears the name of
James S. Rollins.
Look where he sits, thisman of peace,
Upon the sward , under a linden .
Mark you, his hair and beard all gray,
His face a -wrinkled , and his hand half-palsied that doth clutch his staff ;
*
But yet his eye is bright and lights as when he led his legion . *
0 ! what a change in him and all !
And yet to him it seemeth better.
The clamor of his goats and sheep , the noise of plows and groaning wains,
Doth please him more than did aforetimethe plaudits of galleries,
The acclaim ofmultitudes, the rumble of a thousand chariots and triumphal cars.
That babbling youngster — his grandchild, mayhap ,
Who climbs upon his seat and plucks his beard ,
And gets a hug and kiss, then shouts in triumph,
Climbs clumsily down, runs away and, tumbling,
Sprawls upon the grass, then shouts again ,
That romping elf can his attention gain
(Hear him ; he cries, “ Comehelp me up ! " )
Sooner and surer than we, who sat in senate with him
And heard his voice when it counseled and proclaimed our country's policies.
*
* Look you , so should all good men end their days.
DR . A. W. ROLLINS, DECEASED .
Dr. Anthony Wayne Rollins was born in Westmoreland county ,

Pa ., March 5 , 1783 . His father , Henry Rollins, was a native of
County Tyrone, Ireland, and cameto America during the Revolution
ary war , in which he took a part on the side of the Colonies. Among
other engagements in which he participated , he was at the battle of

Brandywine .
Dr. A. W. Rollins was reared amidst the disadvantages of poverty ,
and was thrown at an early period upon his own resources to fight the
battle of life. Possessing a firm physical constitution and good na
tive intellect, he went resolutely to work with a strong purpose to
achieve success and to win a respectable position amongst men . By
alternately working on a farm and attending such primitive schools as
were at that early day to be found in the country, he gained the rudi
ments of a good common school education , which enabled him to be
come a schoolmaster himself. In this useful and honorable employ
ment he was engaged until he got sufficiently ahead with ready means
to enter Jefferson College, at Connonsburg , Pennsylvania , where he
successfully completed his education . In 1803 or 1804 he went to
Kentucky and lived successively in the counties of Bourbon , Fayette
and Madison , engaging in school teaching and pursuing the study of
medicine. He engaged in practice as a physician in Richmond, the
county seat of Madison county , which he made his permanent home
for twenty - five years .
On the 18th day of April, 1811 , he was united in marriage to Miss
Sallie Harris Rodes, the second daughter of Judge Robert Rodes , a
prominent and distinguished citizen of Madison county , and a sister of
the venerable Colonel William Rodes, of Richmond , and also of Major
Clifton Rodes, now residing at Danville , Kentucky. She was a lady
of refined and beautiful character, and the union was one which
bought great contentinent and happiness to the parties. By thismar
riage there were seven children , of whom only two are now living -
the eldest, the Honorable James S. Rollins, of Columbia , Missouri,
and the youngest Mrs. Sarah H. Burnam , the elegant and accom
plished wife of the Honorable Curtis F. Burnam , graduate of Yale
College, and a distinguished lawyer of Kentucky .
In the spring of 1830 , his eldest daughter, Eliza , having made a mar
riage engagement with Dr. James H. Bennett , then residing in Colum
bia , Missouri, and the health of Dr. Rollins failing, he determined to
emigrate with his family to Missouri. Having purchased a fine body of
land , partially improved , in the western part of Boone county , about
four miles north of the Missouri river, he came and took possession of it
in the spring of 1830 , and pursued steadily thereafter the profession of
agriculture until his death , which occured at Richland , his residence
in Boone county , on the 9th day of October, 1845 , in the sixty -third
year of his age. He was buried at the family cemetery with Masonic
honors, of which ancient order he had been a life -long member ; but
his remains, with those of his affectionate wife , were afterwards
removed to the Columbia Cemetery , where they now rest .
Dr. Rollins took great interest in the establishment of schools , in
building churches and in all other enterprises calculated to improve
the social and physical condition of the people among whom he lived .
His services in behalf of the State University are set down in the
history of that institution , on other pages of this work . What is
known as the “ Rollins aid fund ” was created by him pursuant to
the following provision of his last will and testament:
Item 7th . - Having felt the great disadvantages of poverty in the acquisition of my own
education , it is my will thatmy executors, hereinafter named , shall, as early after my death
as they may deem expedient, raise the sum of $ 10,000 by the sale of lands of which Imay die
seized , and which I have not especially bequeathed in any of the foregoing items, which sum
of $ 10,000 I desire may be set aside for the education of such poor and indigent youths of
Boone county ,male and female, as are not able to educate themselves.
The principal of this sum , by careful management under the direc

tion of the County Court of Boone county , has increased to $ 30,000 ,
three -fourths of the annual interest upon which sum is annually ex
pended in giving aid to such young men and women as desire to ob
tain an education at the State University, and the remaining one
fourth of the interest is added regularly to the principal. Already
some hundreds of pupils have received substantial aid from this source ,
without which they would not have been able to prosecute their studies.
Dr. Rollins was a man of fine presence and noble mien , and cordi
ally admired for his genial manners and high character . The engrav
ing on another page is from a portrait by Bingham , now in the library
of the University ,and is said to be a good likeness of the destin
guished subject.
COLONEL FRANCIS T. RUSSELL .
Col. Francis T. Russell ; lawyer and prominent business man of

Columbia , Missouri, was born in Cabell county , West Virginia , April
24th , 1821, and was raised on a farm . He received his education at
the Ohio University , under Drs. Read and McGuffey . Studied law and
was licensed to the bar in Virginia . Removed to Missouri in the fall
of 1841, and settled in Columbia , Boone county , having been influ
enced to do so by the location of the University at this place . Com
menced the practice of law , which he kept up at intervals until the
close of the late war. Was married May 6th , 1846 , to M. Caroline
Lenoir , a native of North Carolina , with whom he has raised seven
children , all living. Shortly after his marriage he settled at his pres
ent home, in West Columbia , where he has resided ever since. Crossed
the plains to California in 1849, with a Boone county company , and
remained in the mines until the winter of 1850, when he returned and
led an expedition of his own on a second trip of great exposure , sick
ness and loss. He returned to Columbia in the winter of 1851, and
resumed his law practice. For the next ten years he was engaged in
a mixed business requiring great labor and energy . In addition to the
law , he managed his farms, a saw -mill , and attended to the duties of
public administrator . He wạs also a trustee of Christian College, and
gave that institution a large share of his time and money . At the
breaking out of the civil war he became and remained a decided Union
man . He organized the Union clubs of the county . Was com
missioned a lieutenant- colonel of the 61st regiment Enrolled Mis
souri Militia , by Gov. Gamble, and went at once into active local
service. During the same year he was commissioned by President
Lincoln one of the Home Guard commissioners for Missouri . His
associates were Charles T. Sherman , of Ohio , brother to Gen. Sherman ,
and George R. Taylor , with Col. James H. Moss as U. S. attorney .
The duties of this office lasted for nearly seven months, and nearly
$ 1,000,000 of claims for services and material were audited and al
lowed against the United States, in favor of early , irregular service
in Missouri. After fulfilling the duties of this position he returned to
active military service at home in the autumn of 1863 , but early in
the winter following he was detailed for duty as provost marshal at
Columbia , in which position he remained until the office was closed
in 1864. He was elected to the legislature in 1868 on the Repub
lican ticket and served two sessions . He was chosen to this service
with Hon . James S. Rollins in the Senate — with special reference to
the Agricultural College being located in Boone county , and so com
pletely did this matter absorb their time and attention that the Boone
members could take no part in any other legislation , scarcely even
by voting . The desired result was finally achieved at the end of the
second winter, but not without great labor and skilful management
on the part of both the Boone members and their friends. It may
be said that with less ability , energy and perseverance than were dis
played by Col. Russell and Maj. Rollins, and the earnest coöperation
of a number of enterprising citizens of Boone county , the Agricultural
College would never have been located at Columbia . Col. Russell
voted for the emancipation ordinance . From 1860 to 1880 he was a
curator of the State University , and as such was justly entitled to the
credit of placing his old preceptor, Dr. Daniel Read, at the head of
that institution , and whose earnest and devoted labors in behalf of the
University are well known and universally recognized by all true
friends of the institution . He organized and carried through the
present system of cheap club boarding houses for poor students. He
also procured the appointment of Prof. Ficklin to his present position
in the University . Was also one of the committee to locate the
School of Mines, and to visit all the agricultural colleges in the
United States in the interest of the Missouri school. R. L. Todd ,
of Columbia , and A. W.Matthews, of Springfield , were also members
of the committee.. For the last ten years Col. Russell has devoted his
time to domestic life and private business affairs .
JOHN BEDFORD ROYALL AND FAMILY.
The distinguished family whose history is briefly outlined in this

sketch originated in Virginia , the grand “ Old Dominion ” from
whence so many of the finest families of the land have come westward
and southward . John Bedford Royall, whose immediate family are
associated with the history of Boone county, was born in Halifax
county , Virginia, May 23, 1788. He was reared in his native county ,
and finished his educational course at Hampden - Sidney College. He
was commissioned a captain of cavalry in the war of 1812 , and therein ,
as all through his long and useful life , did creditable service . He was
a man of great literary tastes and ästhetical turn of mind ; and he
gratified his desires in this particular by much close and constant
reading. He was admitted to the Virginia bar and practiced law.in
that State for some years. He removed to Boone county , Missouri,
in 1840, though he only lived four years after settling in this hospitable
clime. Mr. Royall was married , January 29 , 1817, to Miss Pamelia
Williamson Price, daughter of Pugh W. Price , of Prince Edward
County , Virginia . Mr. Royall had been long connected with the
Presbyterian church , and died firm in that faith , departing this life in
Columbia , Missouri, August 24 , 1844 . Mrs. Royall , who still survives
at this writing, is living in Columbia with her son and daughter . She
was born August 11, 1800 , and is a sister of the lamented Gen. Ster
ling Price of Confederate fame, John R. Price , Maj. Robert Pugh
Price , and Dr. Edwin Price . Her brothers all became more or less
distinguished . The generous and noble-hearted Pugh , though less
famous than some of his brothers, has never been publicly mentioned
in such a manner as his many estimable qualities entitled him to .

Mrs. Royall was educated at Reed's Academy in Virginia . She was
married young, and became the mother of six children . Elizabeth
died at fifteen years old , while at school at Danville , Va., Academy.
Mary Jane Royall became the wife of Col. William F. Switzler, of
Columbia , and died September 11 , 1879. Wm . Bedford Royall is at
this writing a colonel in the regular United States army. He had
served in the Mexican war , and was a first lieutenant in Captain
McMillan's Boone county company. He was in Texas at the out
break of the civil war, and remained loyal to his government, doing
most of his service in Virginia . He was six times wounded in an
engagement with “ Jeb.” Stuart's Confederate cavalry. This took
place in Virginia , and was a hand-to -hand fight , in which Captain
Lataine was killed . Capt . L. was in command of a Confederate
detachment that assailed Capt . Royall. At the close of the war Wil
liam B. came out with the rank of major. He distinguished himself
in June, 1876 , in a fight with Sitting Bull at Rosebud , Dakota Terri
tory . He now holds the rank of lieutenant- colonel, and is with his
regiment in Arizona Territory . John Price Royall, still another son ,
and now teacher of book -keeping in the State University , was born in
Halifax county , Virginia , July 11, 1831. Hemarried Miss Nancy C.
Wells , ofCalifornia , June 4 , 1868 . Prof. Royall wentout to California
in 1850, and there became assistant State superintendent under O. P.
Fitzgerald , D. D. He was engaged in teaching mining and farming
during his long residence in that State , and also taught book -keeping
in the San Francisco city schools . He returned to Columbia in 1880 ,
and went in the University as stated above . Victoria Regina resides
in Columbia with her mother and brother , while Virginia Lafayette
( now Mrs. J. A.Henderson , wife of Judge Henderson , of St. Louis
county ) , is now a resident of Clayton , that county .
COL . WILLIAM F. SWITZLER .
Col. Switzler was born in Fayette county, Kentucky, March 16 ,

1819. His paternal grandparents were natives of Switzerland . They
emigrated to America , settling near Harrisburg , Pennsylvania , subse
quently removing to Orange county , Virginia , where Simeon Switzler ,
the father of Col. S. was born . In 1826 Wm . F. came with his father
to Fayette , Howard county , Missouri, and here resided until 1832 ,
when the family moved to a farm about midway between Fayette
and Boonville . He attended school at Mt. Forest Academy and read

law at home, his instructors in law being Col. J. Davis and Judge
Abiel Leonard .
Col. Switzler early evinced a decided taste for politics. In 1840 ,
when but twenty -one years of age, he was a strong Whig , and wrote
a series of able articles in the Boonslick Times ( then published at
Fayette ) advocating the election of Gen. Harrison . January 8 , 1841,
he came to Columbia and read law in the office of Hon . J. S. Rollins .
In 1841 he was selected to deliver a public address on the occasion of
the death and in commemoration of the life and services of Gen.
Harrison . In the same year he became editor of the Patriot. His
admission to the bar occurred in 1842. In July he retired from the
Patriot, but in December following he purchased a half interest in the
office , and again became its editor ( see history of Columbia Patriot ).
Col. Switzler's public services in behalf of his county and State are
set forth on other pages of this volume and need not again be men
tioned here .
As stated , he was an old line Whig , and as such voted for and
supported Gen. Harrison for president in 1840 ; Henry Clay in 1844 ;
Gen. Taylor in 1848 ; Gen. Scott in 1852 ; Millard Fillmore in 1856 ;
and John Bell in 1860. In the latter year he was a candidate for
presidential elector on the Bell-Everett ticket and made a thorough
canvass of his district . During the war he was a decided but con
servative Union man . Since 1863 he has acted with the Democratic
party . He supported Gen. McClellan for president in 1864 ; Hora
tio Seymour in 1868 ; Horace Greeley in 1872 ; Samuel J. Tilden in
1876 , and Gen. Hancock in 1880 .
In 1866 and also in 1868 Col. Switzler was the Democratic nominee
for congress in his district . Notwithstanding the disfranchisement of
a very large number of Democrats , he was both times elected by
large majorities over his Radical competitors. The Radical secretary
of state “ went behind the returns , however , and each time gave the
certificate of election to Col. S.'s competitor . Each time the case
was carried up to congress, and on both occasions a majority of the
committee on election , largely Republican , reported in favor of Col.
Switzler. The Radical majority in the house , however, refused to
ratify the actions of the committee , and both times awarded the seats
to the sitting members. On both occasions Col. Switzler presented
his case to the house in speeches of great ability and power, which
attracted attention and comment throughout the Union . Previous to

the war — in 1846 , 1848 and 1856 — he was elected to the legisla
ture from Boone county .
Col. Switzler was a member of the State constitutional convention
of 1865 , in which he took a very prominent part against disfranchise
ment and other extreme measures adopted by the Radical majority of
that body. He was also a member of the constitutional convention
of 1875 , and was chairman of the committee on education . To him
the people of the State are largely indebted for the article on that
subject in the present constitution .
January 1, 1878 , leaving the Statesman newspaper under the edito
rial control and business management of his brother , Lewis M. Switz
ler, a lawyer of Columbia , and of his eldest son , Irvin Switzler, he
assumed half ownership and chief editorial charge, in conjunction
with M. B. Chapman , of the St. Joseph Daily Evening Chronicle,
but in April following disposed of his interest, returned to Columbia
and resumed control of the Statesman , which he yet maintains. His
history discloses the remarkable fact of more than forty years' editor
ship of the same paper in the same town.
A few days after he left Columbia for St. Joseph , as it was supposed ,
there to make his permanent home, his old neighbors and countymen
held a public meeting in the court -house , which was presided over by
the late Elder J. K. Rogers, and which was addressed by Hon. J. S.
Rollins , Robert L. Todd, Prof. G. C. Swallow , Rev. W. T. Ellington ,
Capt . H. C. Pierce and others , each bearing testimony to the high
character , ability and services of Col. Switzler, with personal regrets
at bis leaving Columbia . Resolutions were passed by the meeting
.eulogistic of him as a journalist, legislator and citizen — such resolu
tions as few men of any State live to see passed and published in
commendation of them by their old friends and countymen .
In 1877 Col. Switzler wrote “ Switzler's History of Missouri,”
universally regarded and adopted as the standard history of our State .
Being for so long a time in public life and blessed with a phenomenal
memory , he is a perfect animated cyclopedia of facts pertaining to
the history of Missouri and Boone county , and has the full capacity to
>
put them on paper , as is evidenced by the “ History of Missouri,”
and by this volume, the general history in which was chiefly written
by him .
In August , 1843 , Mr. Switzler was married , in Columbia , to Mary
Jane Royall, a daughter of John B. Royall , of Halifax county , Vir
60
ginia . Mrs. Switzler died September 11 , 1879, leaving three grown

children , two sons and one daughter . One of the sons, Irvin Switz
ler , is now proprietor of the Columbia Statesman . Col. Switzler
himself remains unmarried .
It may further and in conclusion be said of Col. Wm . F. Switzler
that he is a self-made man , who has won honorable distinction by
industry , self-reliance , personal purity and worth . As a journalist he
ranks high, the Statesman being regarded as a powerful and influen
tial journal which in each issue is filled with matter conducive to good
taste , good morals , and good government. Although always sur
rounded by those who made, sold and drank spirituous liquors he has
He has been always a steady,
never tasted of an intoxicating beverage .
unflinching advocate of total abstinence , and is known as a leading
worker in the cause of temperance and prohibition in this State. He
is the G. W. C. T. of the order of Good Templars for the fourth time .
Col. Switzler has done good service for Boone county . As its rep
resentative in legislative councils he was always ready , faithful and

efficient ; during the war he was of great assistance to the people of
his county who favored secession , and had fallen under the ban of
Federal military authority ; in every public enterprise he was always
among the foremost ; in every good work he has never been behind
hand ; as a friend he is loyal and trustworthy ; as a citizen and a man
he is a model, and while he is now blessed with troops of friends
and admirers, there are generations yet unborn that will rise up
to do honor to his memory .
JOHN MARTIN SAMUEL .
John M. Samuel was born in Columbia , Boone county , Missouri,

December 16 , 1825. His parents were Richard and Lucy (Marrs )
Samuel. He had the misfortune to lose both his father and mother
at the age of six years , and was subsequently taken to Kentucky
where he was reared to manhood and partly educated under the care
of relatives of that State . Returning to Columbia , Missouri, in 1842,
he entered the State University , then opened for the first time for the ad
mission of students. He was therefore one among the first to avail him
selfofthe superior advantages afforded by this institution of learning .
In 1844 he attended college in Louisville , Kentucky. Hethen studied
law with Preston Loughborough and William H. Field , of that city ,
and in 1848–9 attended a course of lectures at the law school of Transyl
vania University , Kentucky. After years of study and preparation
Ve An
ry on
i sum
uel
for the bar , he now determined to engage in the mercantile business

and devoted all his energy and enterprise in that direction , being
largely interested in the sale of merchandise and in shipping tobacco
and pork . He was quite successful in business and contributed largely
to the prosperity of the community with whom he traded . Always
liberal in his dealings , he has , while prospering himself , promoted the
prosperity of others. He was elected sheriff of Boone county in
1857 by the largest majority , perhaps , ever received by a candidate
for that office , in this county . He was re- elected in 1859 . He was
elected clerk of the circuit court in 1867 , and re -elected in 1871. In
1876 he was elected county treasurer , and now holds that position .
He has given entire satisfaction to the public in all his official rela
tions, and he has performed all his public duties with ability , prompt
ness and integrity . He is a gentleman of benevolent and kindly im
pulses, a public spirited citizen , a wise counsellor and a true friend,
and is deservedly popular in the community which has known him
long and well. Mr. Samuel wasmarried , September 2 , 1847, to Miss
Elenora B., daughter of the late Ishmael Vanhorn , of Boone
county . They have three daughters, all married . Mr. and Mrs.
Samuel are faithful members of the Presbyterian church , and are
usefully and actively interested in the general good of society .
PROF . PAUL SCHWEITZER , PH . D.
· Prof. Schweitzer is a native of Prussia , born in the city of Berlin ,

March 16 , 1840. His father was a respectable citizen of the middle
class and renowned as a mathematician . Prof. Schweitzer received his
education in the Universities of Berlin and Goettingen , graduating
from the latter institution in 1869. In 1864 he came to America and
resided for a time in the cities of Philadelphia and New York . He
was a teacher in the polytechnic school at Philadelphia , and also taught
in the school of mines , Columbia College , New York City . In 1867
he returned to Germany and remained a few months. In 1869 he
again visited the fatherland, and it was during this visit that he
received his diploma from Goettingen . He returned to New York and
resumed his place in the school of mines of Columbia where he was
employed until in September , 1872 , when he accepted the position of
professor of analytical and applied chemistry in the University or
Missouri ; this title was afterwards changed to that of professor of
chemistry , and this position he now holds.
Prof. Schweitzer's reputation as a chemist is already well established .
His preceptors were the celebrated German scientists Mitscherlich ,

Rose , and Woehler . He is a corresponding member of the New
York Academy of Science , a member of the American Chemical So
ciety , and a fellow of the American Association for the advancement
of science . He is the author of many important papers on the sub
jects connected with the science of chemistry . A lecture delivered
by him on the subject of petroleum has been published , widely cir
culated , and universally commended , being frequently referred to and
quoted from as indisputable authority . The professor belongs to the
conservative school of thought, not sharing the views of many Ger
man scientists and philosophers. He accepts only what is demonstrated
to be true , indulges in but few speculations concerning the improbable ,
and rejects everything that will not bear analysis. He is wedded to
bis science and is constantly discovering new beauties and priceless
qualities in his mistress .
June 22 , 1870 , Prof. Schweitzer married Miss Sarah Howard , a na
tive of England , but a resident of New York City at the time. They
now have two children , Willis and Lizzie . The professor was born
and confirmed in the Lutheran church , and has never united with any
other religious organization . Mrs. Schweitzer is a Baptist . Prof. S. ,
was naturalized as an American citizen in 1872, and is warmly at
tached to the institutions of his adopted country . He attends elec
tions, votes to please himself, and is not a partisan in politics, bear
ing himself in all things “ with malice toward none, and charity for
all. "
AUGUST SCHULTS .
The subject of this sketch is the son of Peter and Mary ( Bellamer )
Schults . He was born May 28th , 1828 , in Elberfeld , Prussia . Was
reared and educated in his native town until 1844, when he entered
the University of Bonn , where he remained for five years. He gradu

ated at that institution , July 4th , 1855. After finishing his course at
Bonn he left for America , landing in the city of New York , where he
kept books for two years. In 1857 he went to Buffalo , New York ,
where he enl isted in the Uni ted States army and was sent to Utah .
He belonged to the regular army for five years . In 1862 he joined
the Federal army, and was made adjutant of the Thirtieth Missouri in
fantry . Was in the battles of Arkansas Post, Vicksburg , Walnut Hill ,
Ft. Blakely and Port Hudson . Was mustered out in Columbus , Texas,
in 1865. In the spring of 1866 he went into the produce and commis
sion business in St. Louis , Missouri, and remained there until he
came to Columbia , in 1868. He engaged in farming, one and one

half miles northwest of Columbia , until January , 1875 , when hemoved
to town and entered the circuit clerk's office , where he has labored
ever since . Hewas married in St. Louis to Emma Solier, daughter
of Louis S. Solier , of Switzerland. His father died in Elberfeld ,
Prussia , in 1845. His mother died in 1861. Mr. Schults is an excel
lent clerk . His writing is as plain as print and perfectly uniform .
His books will compare with the best in State for neatness and ac
curacy . He takes great pride in his work and has always given per
fect satisfaction .
WARWICK MARTIN SCOTT .
Warwick Martin Scott , son of Robert E. and Anna H. (Oldham )

Scott , was born in Boone county , October 8th , 1846 . A sketch of
his family may be found elsewhere in this volume, in connection with
the biography of Robert E. Scott. The subject of this sketch was
educated at the Missouri State University . He commenced business
as a clerk , October 8th , 1867, with Moss & Prewitt, dry goods mer
chants, of Columbia , Missouri. Hestayed with this firm for five years
then went to Paris, Texas , where he sold dry goods for J. T. Berry , re
maining with him for sixteen months. He then returned to Boone
county , in August, 1874 , and went to clerking for Samuel & Strawn .
Remained with them until August, 1875 , when he became a member
of the grocery firm of Scott , Kennan and Ferguson . Was a member
of the firm of Strawn , Ferguson & Co., dry goods merchants, for
several years , also of Scott, Kennan & Co., groceries , until August
1st, 1882. He is now a member of the firm of Scott & Kennan , one
of the largest and best equipped mercantile establishments in Central
Missouri. Messrs . Scott & Kennan are self-made men , born and
raised in Boone county , and from early boyhood thoroughly identified
with the business interests of Columbia and the surrounding country .
Was married , October 8th , 1878, to Miss Annie B., daughter of
Dr. Alfred and Percilla Patton , of Vincennes , Indiana. They have
one son and one daughter , - Annie P., born July 29th , 1879 , and
Robert Alfred , born July 18th , 1881. Mr. Scott is a member of the
Christian church , also of the Masonic order. Mrs. Scott is a member
of the Christian church .
GEORGE P. KENNAN .
George P. Kennan , a prominent business man of Columbia , was

born seven miles northeast of Columbia , May 7, 1848. He is the
son of Samuel and Harriet (Rogers ) Kennan . Was reared on the

homestead , attending the public school of his neighborhood during his
minority . He commenced his business career, February 16 , 1867 , when
he entered the dry goods store of Conley , Strawn & Co., as a sales
man . He continued with this firm six years, when he becamea mem
ber of the dry goods firm of Strawn , Hedden & Co. He was a mem
ber of this firm for two years . In 1874 he was engaged as a sales
man in the dry goods store of Samuel & Strawn , and remained with
that firm one year. In 1875 he left the dry goods trade and embarked
in the grocery business with Scott, Kennan & Ferguson , under the
firin name of Scott, Kennan & Ferguson . Continued with this firm
W. M. SCOTT. GEORGE P. KENNAN .

Proprietors Great Western Grocery House, Columbia , Mo.
until 1879. From 1879 until August 1, 1882, he was one of the part
ners of Strawn , Ferguson & Co., dry goods, and Scott , Kennan &
Co., grocers . The present firm is Scott & Kennan . They employ
four salesmen and three porters and run three wagons. Their stock
consists of all kinds of staple and fancy groceries , queensware, glass,
wooden and tinware. Mr. Kennan has been remarkably successful in
business, having commenced without a dollar . The firm of
Scott & Kennan is doing the largest business, perhaps , of any simi
lar establishment in the county . The firm is composed of youngmen
born and raised in Boone county , each of whom commenced life with
little or no capitalbut nerve, energy and prudence . They have mer
-
--
-
-
ited and won the confidence and patronage of the public and have
established a business second to none in the country . Mr. Kennan
was married , September 18 , 1879 , to Miss Sue, daughter of Dr.
William and Matilda (Colborn ) Garrard . They have one child , Ma
tilda C.
THOMAS CALVIN SCRUGGS.
Thomas Calvin Scruggs was born at Sacramento City , California ,

October 30 , 1852 . He is the son of John Calvin and Juliet ( Sexton )
Scruggs . His father was a prominent stock dealer of Sacramento ,
California . He bought his stock in Missouri and the territories and
drove across the plains . He had also invested considerable capital in
real estate at Sacramento , and was largely interested in mining. He
died at sea, three days out from shore , but was brought to the city of
New Orleans for interment. His body was afterwards removed to
Independence , Missouri, and deposited in the cemetery . Young
Scruggs came with his mother to Kansas City in 1854 , where he was
educated at the high school, afterwards learning the carpenter's trade
under John M. Jackson , a prominent builder of that city, serving an
apprenticeship of five years. Before entering upon his apprenticeship ,
however , he travelled the river for several years as a newsboy. After
quitting Mr. Robinson , he visited many parts of the country , working
at his trade from timeto timeto defray expenses. He landed at Colum
bia in the autumn of 1873 , and has remained here ever since, having
been actively engaged as a contractor and builder since becoming a citi
zen of the place. He was married November 13 , 1873 , to Miss Sallie ,
daughter of Charles E. and Mary (McDaniel) Sexton . They have
one son and one daughter , John C. and Lillie . Mrs. Scruggs is a ,
member of the Methodist church . Mrs. Juliet Strong, the mother of
Mr. Scruggs , was first married , May 25 , 1848, to John C. Scruggs .
She was married to William A. Strong, December 27 , 1855 , in Kansas
City, Missouri. Hewas born and educated in North Carolina . Dur
ing the summer previous to his marriage he established the Kansas
City Enterprise , now known as the Journal. He had control of this
paper for about two years. Mr. Strong afterwards came to Boone
county , where he resided for nine years . He returned to Kansas
City , where he died in 1869. He was a brilliant writer and an able
speaker .
CHARLES C. SHERWOOD .
The subject of this sketch is the son of Morgan and Harriet

( Brewster ) Sherwood, daughter of Hon . Jonah Brewster , of Pennsyl
vania , which State he represented in the United States Senate for nine
years . The subject of this sketch was born at Wellsboro , Tioga
county , Pennsylvania , April 15 , 1839, and was educated at Oxford
College , New York , where he graduated in 1856 . He then went to
Fon du Lac, Wisconsin , where he engaged in the mercantile business ,
remaining there two years, when he went to New Orleans, and for the
next two or three years succeeding was first clerk of several river
steamers, remaining in this business until the beginning of the war.
In 1861 he enlisted in Company A , Second Wisconsin cavalry , and
was engaged as secretary to Gen. C. C. Washburne, and subsequently
became a member of his staff . He served as aide de camp until 1862,
when he resigned in order to accept a position in the revenue depart
ment , where he remained for one year . He was next engaged as chief
clerk in the United States engineer department, his duties pertaining
to fortifications. Remained in this position until 1865, when he re
signed to accept the appointment of general passenger agent of the
Atlantic and Mississippi Steamship Company , with headquarters at.
New Orleans. Was with this company two years. In 1868 was ap
pointed western travelling agent for Grand Trunk railroad in
Canada, Vermont Central railroad and Royal Mail line of steamers.
Held this position until 1872, when he went to Chicago and was en
gaged as commercial editor of the Chicago Commercial Advertiser
for two years ; then went on the road for John H. Catherwood & Co.,
a tea firm of Philadelphia . Was with this establishment until 1876 .
Afterwards he removed to Chicago and was engaged to travel
for Grannis & Farwell, wholesale grocers , remaining with this firm
some time, when he came to Columbia , Missouri, and opened a milli
nery store on a larger and more attractive scale than had ever before
been seen in the place . He has the largest retail millinery establish
ment in Missouri. Mr. Sherwood was married , August 1 , 1876 , to
Miss Minnie G., daughter of T. T. and Elizabeth (Wright ) Shoot
man , of Mexico , Missouri. They have one son , John Morgan . Mr.
and Mrs. Sherwood are both members of the Christian Church .
CLINTON B. SEBASTIAN .
C. B. Sebastian is the son of Alexander H. and Tabitha A.

( Jacobs ) Sebastian , and was born at Cloverport, Breckinridge county ,
Kentucky , March 24 , 1852. His father moved to Boone county , Mis
souri, in 1854 , and settled on Two -mile prairie , six miles east of
Columbia on the St. Charles road , where he lived until his death in
1876 . His wife died the same year , and both are buried at the old
Cedar Creek Church . They were consistent members of the Metho
dist Church . Clinton B. was educated at the State University, and
graduated in law in the class of 1876 , having laid the foundation for
his profession of the law in the office of John Overall , now of St.
Louis . Since graduating he has practiced his profession in Columbia ,
building up a reputable and lucrative practice . On the 29th of
August , 1882, he received the nomination at the hands of the Demo
cratic party , for the office of prosecuting attorney of Boone, beating
the present incumbent, J. DeW . Robinson , five hundred and three
votes at the primary election . The county's interests will be safe in
the hands of Mr. Sebastian , and criminals may expect vigorous, able
prosecution at his hands . He is a young gentleman of sterling integ
rity , and one whom Boone county delights to honor . He is an exem
plary member of the Methodist Church , also a member of the Odd
Fellows Lodge at Columbia . · He is the State president of the Phi
Delta Theta society , a Greek letter college fraternity .
ROBERT HUDSON SMITH .
Few business men have occupied so prominent a position before the

people of Boone county as the subject of this sketch , and none, per
haps, have a firmer hold upon the confidence of the public . He is
the son of William and Elizabeth (Cress ) Smith , originally of Millers
burg , Bourbon county , Kentucky, where he was born May 17, 1821.
He came with his parents to Callaway county , Missouri, in the spring
of 1826 , and settled near Millersburg . They resided in Callaway
county until the fall of 1844, when they came to Boone and settled
three miles north of Columbia , at what was known as Hannah's Mill,
on Hinkson creek , where they remained until 1848, when Mr.
Smith went to Santa Fe , taking with him a saw -mill , the first ever
erected in that country . He remained there until 1850 , when he
came back to Boone county and located two miles south of Columbiit ,
taking charge of the Reuben Black grist and saw mill, which he
changed from a water- power to steam . He remained with this mill
until 1855, when he went to the John Keene farm , three miles east of
Columbia , on the Mexico road , where he built a steam mill which he
operated until 1862, when he came to Columbia and bought the mill.
then under construction , paying the proprietor, Gaines C. Raney ,
$ 10,000 for the property, which he completed , adding from time to
time such new machinery as the increase of business demanded . He
sold the property in 1871 for $ 18,000 , to Conley , Anderson & Guitar .
The mill is now valued at $60,000 . In the fall of 1871 Mr. Smith
went to Rocheport, Missouri, and bought the old Stailey mill, which
was blown up a few months later, killing A. J. Norris, the engineer,
and badly injuring a man named Roberts . He at once rebuilt the
mill, putting in new machinery and sparing no expense in his efforts
to repair the loss. In less than a year the new mill was in ashes.
The cause of the fire was never known . Mr. Smith was, for the time
being, financially ruined . He came to Columbia without a cent.
The people, appreciating his active, earnest labors in the past, and
feeling a generous sympathy for his losses, elected him collector of
Boone county , which position he held for two years, at the same time
conducting a livery stable and stock business at Columbia , which he
continued to follow for four years after his term of office expired .
He then bought a third interest in the Columbia mills, for which he
paid $ 9,000 . Heremained with this firm for one year and a half, when
he sold his interest to Anderson , Hubbard & Co. He now turned his
entire attention to trading in stock and real estate , which he followed
until April, 1882, when he became one of the proprietors of the
Farmer's mill , Columbia , Missouri, saw and grist combined , situated
in the northwestern part of town . Mr. Smith was married , May 25,
1843, to Martha A., daughter of Thomas and Patsey McCutchen .
Mrs. Smith died in less than one year after their marriage. She was
buried in the old Hinkson Creek church - yard . He was married to
his second wife , Caroline, daughter of John and Mary ( Williams)
Cave , of Scott county, Kentucky, July 17 , 1850. By this inarriage
they had two sons and one daughter, Andrew F., Thomas C. and
Mary E., all of whom are dead . They were buried at the Columbia
cemetery . Mr. Smith is still in vigorous health , and is as active and
enterprising as when he first commenced his business career, years
ago. In addition to the mill already mentioned , Mr. Smith owns a
nice residence in Columbia , and a half interest.in a farm of four hun
dred and forty -four acres, one-half mile north of Stephens' Store,
Callaway county , Missouri. It is hardly proper to close this biographi
cal sketch without making brief mention of the parents of Mr. R. H.
Smith . His father , William Smith , was born September 11 , 1787,
and died July 17 , 1860 , at the age of seventy -two. He is buried in
the Bonne Femme church - yard . His wife , Elizabeth , was born May
25 , 1793 , and is still living, having reached her ninetieth year . She
is living with her son, G. W.Smith , in Callaway county . William
Cito
SM
HON . JAMES L. STEPHENS.

Smith , brother of Robert , has six living children , five sons and one
daughter . One son , William H., was killed in the Confederate army .
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Smith are members of the Baptist Church ,
and have been since 1850. He is also a member of the Masonic
order .
HON . JAMES L. STEPHENS.
James L. Stephens was born in Girard county , Kentucky , Novem

ber 17 , 1815 , and removed with his father ( Elijah Stephens) in the
fall of 1819 , from Kentucky to Boone county , Missouri. After re
maining on the farm with his father, and receiving such an education
as the schools of the country at that day afforded , he, in the spring
of 1836 , entered the dry goods store of Parker & Barr, of Columbia ,
as clerk , and has continually resided in Columbia ever since , except
one year in New York City ; two years in Greensburg , Indiana, and
one year each in Mexico and Fulton , Missouri. In 1843 he engaged
in a large business on his own account, conducting three dry goods
stores in three county seats , one in Mexico , one in Fulton , and one in
Columbia . He inaugurated the first successful cash system in busi
ness in Central Missouri ; and while largely engaged in merchandising,
he also conducted a model farm , and for more than twenty years ,
bought and sold annually from 300 to 500 head of mules. Few , if
any , individuals have ever transacted more business in Boone county ,
and none in his section havemore generously contributed in means or
labor to build up and establish public improvements , scarcely a public
enterprise of his town or county for the past twenty years failing to
receive his cordial and hearty coöperation ; and at least one-half of
all he has earned through an extended and successful business career ,
has been given to aid in building roads, churches, schools, etc. He
not only endowed Stephens College with $ 20,000 ,but advanced $ 6,000
besides to relieve the institution of a mortgage that had been placed
on it under its former organization , and to aid in erecting its build
ings. At one time, he undertook the work of raising $ 50,000 endow
ment for it , and succeeded in securing pledges for half that sum ,
which failed , however, in consequence of the entire sum not being
subscribed at the time the school was changed from a local institution to
one which received a patronage throughout the State . At another
time he raised on a general subscription from citizens of Boone county
$ 7,000 or $8,000 towards enlarging and improving the college prop
erty, which , with other kind offices in the interest of the institution ,
caused the General Baptist Association (whose property it is ) , at its
session in St. Louis in the fall of 1870, to confer his name upon it .
In 1860, Mr. Stephens was the regular nominee of the Democratic

party for State Senator and made the race to the satisfaction of his friends
against ex -Gov . Chas. Hardin , receiving the full strength of the party ,
which was then a decided minority , causing his defeat by some 500
votes. Twenty years after, in 1880 , he was again nominated by the
Democrats of the Ninth senatorial district, composed of the counties of
Audrain , Boone and Callaway, and elected by an overwhelming ma
jority against the combined ticket of Republicans and Greenbackers .
Mr. Stephens not only circulated the petition which obtained the
largest number of names in aid of the railroad and the rock roads,
which are of such incalculable value to Boone county , but his was the
largest individual subscription in aid of those enterprises , — amount
ing to $ 2,600. At the same time he was one of the heaviest tax
payers in the county .
EDWIN W. STEPHENS .
Edwin W. Stephens, editor and proprietor of the Columbia Herald ,

was born in Columbia , Missouri, January 21, 1849. He is the only
son of Hon . James L. and Amelia (Hockaday ) Stephens . A sketch
of his father's life may be found elsewhere in this volume. Mr.
Stephens, the subject of this biography , was reared and educated in
Columbia, graduating at the State University in 1867. Soon after
completing his studies at the University , he entered Jones’ Commer
cial College , St. Louis, Missouri, where he completed his collegiate
course, adding to his literary attainments a thorough business educa
tion . Returning to Columbia he entered the newspaper business ,
purchasing in 1870 , a half interest in the Boone County Journal. In
1871, the year following , he changed the name of the paper to the
Columbia Herald , which name the paper has borne ever since. In
1872, he became sole proprietor of the Herald , which he enlarged and
greatly improved , making it one of the largest and most popular
country newspapers in the State . Mr. Stephens was married Septem
ber 26 , 1871, to Miss Laura Moss , daughter of Col. James H. Moss ,
of Columbia , and grand -daughter of Judge Warren Woodson . Mr.
Stephens has been a curator of the State University , and is at present
a curator of Stephens College. He is an official member of the Bap
tist Church . Although young in years, comparatively speaking, few
men of the State have accomplished more in the same length of time.
The Herald , which he has mainly built up, affords splendid evidence
of his energy, ability and good management . To say that it is one of
themost powerful and influential institutions in Boone county is no

flattery of Mr. Stephens, whose labors to that end are not only known
but appreciated by his numerous patrons. Devoted to his profession ,
earnest in his efforts to promote the welfare of the people of Boone
county , consistent and true to his principles , he has earned and re
ceived the active support of the people regardless of politics or opin
ion . With a bright future before him and a past history of which he
may well feel proud , he can rest assured of the kind support of a gen
erous and appreciative public .
JAMES F. STEWART.
The subject of this sketch is the son of Samuel and Emeline (Hol
man ) Stewart . He was born in Lawrence county, Ohio , October 18 ,
1844 , and came to Pike county , Missouri, in 1850 , and to Boone
county in 1854 , where he was principally educated at the public
schools . In April, 1863, he enlisted in the Federal army, joining
Company B , Ninth regiment Missouri militia , under Gen. Guitar .
His company was commanded by Capt. Adams. August 4 , 1864,
he reënlisted in the Thirteenth cavalry , Missouri volunteers,
for three years ; but was mustered out January 3, 1866. While
a soldier he participated in the battles of Price's raid . His com
mand met Price at Pilot Knob and pursued him to Fort Scott,
where the subject of this sketch was placed in charge of Con
federate prisoners. Next went to Waynesville, Missouri , and from
Re
there to Colorado , where the Indians had been giving trouble.
turned to Fort Leavenworth and were ordered thence to St. Louis
where they were mustered out of service . Mr. Stewart came home
and learned the carpenter's trade, serving an apprenticeship of three
years under Runkle & McAlister. After finishing his trade, he went
to work as a builder and contractor with Tansey & Matheney , who built
the Methodist church and the brewery buildings . Was with this firm
for about one year, then formed a partnership with George McDaniel.
They worked together for three years . From 1873 to 1877 he was
alone in the business . He next formed a partnership with John Crist ,
under the firm name of Stewart & Crist . They now employ six or
eight hands and do a large per cent. of the contracting and building in
Columbia and surrounding country . Mr. Stewart was married
December 29 , 1868, to Miss Martha Jane, daughter of Miles Bald
ridge. Two children were born of this marriage , James E. and Mary
L. The first wife died October 10 , 1872, and is buried at New Hope
church , Audrain county , Missouri. July 30 , 1874 , he was married

to his second wife, Miss Mattie F., daughter of John A. Reed . By
this marriage they had three children : Lawrence F. ( deceased ) , Eva
and Onie . Mr. and Mrs. Stewart are members of the Methodist
church. He is a member of the order of Knights of Pythias. Mr.
Stewart's father was a native of Pennsylvania , and died in Boone
county , Missouri, January 19 , 1877 , aged fifty -five . He is buried on
the old home place. His mother is living on the old homestead , five
miles west of Columbia , on the Rocheport gravel road . There were
eleven children in the family , James F. being the oldest. Five of the
children are living . Mr. Stewart has worked at his trade almost
without intermission since returning from the war . He was superin
tendent of plank roads while a citizen of Pike and Moniteau , and has
held the same position in Boone .
BENJAMIN F. STEWART.
Benjamin F. Stewart is the son of Charles and Elizabeth (Lincoln )

Stewart. He was born in the State of Ohio , November 10th , 1845 ,
and came to Boone county , Missouri, in the autumn of 1855. He grew
to manhood and was principally educated in this county . He was
·married , March 26th , 1868, to Miss Sarah M., daughter of William
and Martha (Williams) Milhollin . They have five children , three
sons and two daughters : Charles W., Thomas B., Mary A., James A.
and Linda L. Mr. Stewart learned the carpenter's trade with Ruckel
& McAlister in 1866. Worked at his trade in Columbia until 1875
when he went to St. Louis , Missouri, where he stayed for one year .
Came back to Boone county and worked two years in partnership with
his brother, J. L. Stewart, in the saw -milling business at Ashland. In
1879 he went to Idaho Springs , Colorado, but did not remain long .
Came back to Ashland and commenced contracting and building ,
remaining there until the summer of 1881 when he returned to Colum
bia and entered in partnership with Alonzo Duncan as contractors and
builders. In 1864 he enlisted as a private in the Federal army, join
ing Company A , Second Missouri cavalry , under Col. Lewis A. Mer
rill . Was in the army thirteen months. He is a member of the K.
of P. and the Odd Fellow orders . Charles Stewart , the father of
Benjamin , was born in Pennsylvania in 1819 and moved to Ohio about
the year 1842, and from there to Pike county , Missouri, in 1850. He
returned to Ohio soon after , and finally came to Boone county , Mis
souri, where he died in 1871. Mrs. Stewart is still living at the age
of sixty -three years. They had eleven children , six sons and five
daughters . Eight of the children are now living. Mr. Stewart
is a superior workman , and , as a contractor and builder , has won the
confidence and patronage of the public . He has all the work he can
do and of the better class of carpenter's work .
J. W. STONE .
Josiah Wilson Stone, a son of Col. Caleb S. Stone, so frequently
mentioned in these pages , is a native of Boone county , born in Colum

bia . He was educated in the common schools. In early life he
engaged in merchandising, and afterward « learned ” the Missouri
river and ran as pilot thereon for many years. On the breaking out of
the war he took service for a short time on the Southern side. He was
in the fight at Mt. Zion church , in this county , in December, 1861, but
escaped in safety . Soon after he went back to the river and ran as
pilot until the war was over . In 1873 he returned to Boone county,
and has here resided ever since . In 1878 he was elected sheriff of the
county and reëlected in 1880 .
In 1859 Mr. Stone was married at St. Charles , Mo. , to Miss Elvira
Dozier , a daughter of Capt. Dozier , of St. Louis, now of the firm of
Dozier, Weyl & Co. Mr. and Mrs. Stone are the parents of two
children . Mr. Stone is a member of the Christian church , and
belongs to the Masonic order and to the Odd Fellows, Boone county
never had a more faithful official or a better citizen than Josiah W.
· Stone. At the Democratic primaries , in August , 1882 , Mr. Stone
was nominated as the candidate for circuit clerk , after a long , arduous
and closely contested canvass against such a strong competitor as W.
W.Garth , Esq .
GEORGE CLINTON SWALLOW , M. D., LL . D.
The worthy subject of this sketch , who has served Missouri so long
and faithfully in a scientific capacity , was born in Buckfield , Oxford
county , Maine, in 1817, and is a descendant of a Norman - French
family named Sevallieu , whose chief marched with William the Nor
man into England. One branch emigrated from France to New
Orleans, while another came from England to New England , Prof.
Swallow being a scion of the latter family . Early in life young George
took a deep interest in the mysterious science of geology. He entered
Bowdoin College , from which he graduated in 1843 , with high honors
and was immediately chosen lecturer in his alma mater on the subject
of botany . In 1848 he established an agricultural college at Hamp

den , Maine , having obtained aid from the State for that purpose . He
was elected professor of chemistry and geology in the Missouri Uni
versity in 1850 , and 1853 was appointed the first State geologist
Missouri ever had . His first official report was published in 1855 .
He first determined , located and mapped out the boundaries of the
geological formations of Missouri, and their mineral contents , as pub
lished in his reports and Campbell's Atlas of Missouri, which reports
have been followed by later investigators in working out the minor
details of our State's geology . During thewar-timethe business ofthe
State University and the geological survey were so much broken up
that, in 1865, Prof. Swallow accepted an appointment as State geolo
gist of Kansas , and continued in that work two years . He had pre
viously , in 1858 , discovered and determined rocks in Kansas belonging
to the Permian group of geological series. This was the first time
that rocks of this age were shown to exist in America ; and this dis
covery by Prof. Swallow , together with his reports on the geology of
Missouri and Kansas, and papers read before the American Association ,
gave him a high rank and honorable recognition among the learned
societies and savans of America and Europe.
In 1870 the University of Missouri was enlarged , reconstructed and
reorganized on the true university plan — with coördinate schools or
colleges of literature, science, art, law , medicine, mines and agricul
ture. Dr. Swallow was appointed to the chair of natural history and
agriculture and made dean of the agricultural college .
In June , 1882 , Prof. Swallow was removed from his chair in the
University as he claims for his persistent efforts to preserve the agri
cultural college and its funds in their integrity , and on charges which
he was not permitted to hear and rebut , and many of which are proved
to be false by the official records of the University , the agricultural
college and the State Board of Agriculture. [ See history of Univer
sity prepared by Col. Switzler . ] For nearly thirty years past he has
been a working and leading member of the agricultural and horticul
tural societies of the State , their very existence having growu out of
his urgent and eloquent advocacy of such organizations as early as
1852 . He has also been an active member of the “ American Associa
tion for the Advancement of Science ,” and has taken an honored and
leading part in many of its profoundest discussions. He has always
been a staunch opponent of “ Darwinism , ” or the materialistic phase
of the doctrine of evolution . His most persistent and useful work is ,
perhaps , his study and classification of Missouri soils as shown by his

numerous publications on their chemical and physical properties, and
the best modes of culture for the staple crops of the Mississippi valley .
FRANK THOMAS .
Mr. Thomas is the son of Christopher and Jemima K. ( Detrow )

Thomas, and was born July 1 , 1836 , in Frederick county , Maryland .
He was educated in his native county , and at the age of eighteen he
came to Palmyra, Missouri, and there learned the carpenter's trade.
In 1855 he went to Keokuk , Iowa , and in 1856 learned the ambrotype
picture business , serving an eighteen months ' apprenticeship . In
May, 1857, he came to Columbia and worked in the picture gallery of

J. T. Redmond, and continued in his employ until July 1, 1857,
when he, in partnership with E. L. Wright, went into the business
for themselves . They continued the business for about eight months,
when he sold his interest in the gallery to a man named Bishop , and
worked for the firm about three months . He then returned to Pal
myra and worked at his old trade, that of carpentering . In 1868 he
left Palmyra and went to Jefferson City and ran a picture gallery for
W. H. Douglass until 1859, when he returned to Columbia and went
into the picture business for himself until 1861. He next resumed
work at carpentering until 1862, when he took his gallery to Syracuse ,
where there were several regiments of soldiers , and went with them to
Jefferson City , Liberty and St. Louis. In 1864 he returned to Colum
bia and was drafted into the Federal army, Sixth regiment , company
H , Missouri volunteers , where he served ten months and was dis
charged in August , 1865. He then came back to Columbia and
worked for E. R. Childers in 1866. In 1867 he worked for A. R.
Butts. Butts sold out to R. J. Booth , and Mr. Thomas ran the gal
lery for him for two years. In 1872 he bought out.Mr. Booth and
has continued the business ever since . He was a member of the Na
tional Photographic Association of the United States until it col
lapsed in 1876. He is now a member of the Photographic Associa
tion of America , organized in 1880 , and was one of its first mem
bers. He attends all conventions of the profession , and keeps pace
with all improvements in the art. He was married September 14 ,
1858 , to Miss Louisa F., daughter of Andrew Lukens, of Philadel
phia , Pa . They have had nine children , five boys and four girls, but
three of whom are now living . He and his wife are members of
61
the Episcopal church , and he is a member of the Odd Fellows, Knights

of Pythias, and Ancient Order of United Workmen Societies.
PROF . S. M. TRACY .
Samuel Mills Tracy was born in Windsor county , Vermont, April

30 , 1847. In 1853 removed with his father to Bloomington , Wiscon
sin , where he was partly educated . Graduated at Michigan Agricul
tural College in 1868. After completing his studies, followed horti
culture, and was editorially connected with Colman's Rural World ,
St. Louis , Missouri ; was also editor of the Practical Farmer , Philadel
phia . In the spring of 1877 was appointed assistant professor of
agriculture in the Missouri State University . January , 1881, was
made professor of botany and entomology, also superintendent of
the agricultural department. Was honored with the degree of M. S.
by the University of Michigan in 1876. Prof. Tracy was married in
1874 to Miss Martha A. Terry , of Milwaukee , Wisconsin . They
have three children . Mr. and Mrs. Tracy are members of the Pres
byterian church . The professor is also a member of the Knights of
Honor. During the war he served in the Forty - first Wisconsin in
fantry
G. W. TRIMBLE .
George W. Trimble was born in Randolph county , Missouri, July

21, 1839. His father was Maj. Robert Trimble , of Kentucky ; his
mother , Elizabeth ( Young ) Trimble, also of Kentucky. The subject
of this sketch was raised on a farm near Fort Henry, and educated at
the common schools of the country . At the age of sixteen he came to
Columbia , Missouri, and entered the store of J. Kirkbride as a sales
man . He clerked for his employer until 1860, when he became a
member of the firm . He was married , November 12 , 1867 , to Miss
Martha , daughter of Dr. W. H. Duncan , an old citizen of Columbia .
They have two living children , Susie and Margaret . Mr. and Mrs.
Trimble are members of the Baptist church . He is also a member
of the I. O. G. T. He has been a member of the city council. In 1880
came within thirty -three votes of being elected county treasurer in a
vote of 3,000. .John M. Samuel was his competitor. Mr. Trimble
is now a member of the firm of Trimble, Fyfer & Co. He has a
pleasant home, made with his own hands. He is an active, energetic
man . In addition to his own private business he has acted as admin
istrator for a number of estates, besides transacting other public
business of a similar nature .
HON . SQUIRE TURNER .
Hon. Squire Turner , one of the ablest lawyers of Central Missouri,

was born in Boone county , Missouri, December 10 , 1836. He is the
son of A. W. and Matilda ( Stone ) Turner ,natives of Madison county ,
Kentucky. The elder Turner was born in Richmond , Kentucky, Sep
tember 18 , 1801. In early manhood he studied law under his brother,
Hon . Squire Turner, member of Congress, and one of the ablest law
yers of Kentucky . It is worthy of mention that Mr. Justice Miller ,
of the United States Supreme Court ; Hon . William H. Hatch , mem
ber of Congress from Missouri ; Hon . Thomas Turner ,member of Con
gress from Kentucky ; ex -Governor McCreery , of Kentucky ; John B.
Gordon , late of Boone county , Missouri, besides many other lawyers
of eminence , read law out of the same books , in the same office , and
under the same distinguished jurist . Mr. Turner practiced with his
brother for a few years . After his admission to the bar he was mar
ried to Matilda R., daughter of William Stone, Sr., of Kentucky. In
the fall of 1831 , when in his thirtieth year , he emigrated to Boone
county , Missouri, and at once entered upon the duties of his profession
at the Columbia bar . As a commercial and probate lawyer he never
had a superior at the Columbia bar . For a long time he acted as pub
lic administrator of Buone county , settling up during the time very
large and complicated estates. As a member of the lower house of
the State Legislature, he, assisted
by Henry S. Geyer and
ex -Governor Gamble, may be said to have framed the adminis
tration law of Missouri . Mr. Turner was a Whig in politics until the
dissolution of that party , after which he co -operated with the Democ
racy . In 1836 he was elected to the lower house of the Legislature,
with John B. Gordon , Thomas C. Maupin and Michael Woods. In
1838 Mr. Turner was elected to the State Senate, in conjunction with
Thomas C. Maupin , Boone county then being entitled to two senators.
At the same election James S. Rollins, David M. Hickman , John B.
Gordon and Alexander Persinger were elected to the lower house . It
was during the ensuing session of the Legislature , 1838–39 , that the
act providing for the location of the State University was passed , under
the provisions of which Boone county secured that institution . The
bill was bitterly opposed in the Senate , and but for the labors and influ
ence and arguments of Senator Turner , the bill would not have passed
that body. The bill organizing and locating the University was the
joint work of Mr. Turner and Hon . James S. Rollins. The original
bill was first offered in the Senate by Mr. Turner. In the struggle to
secure the location in Boone, Mr. Turner proved a tower of strength ;
he assisted in canvassing the county for subscriptions, and subscribed
and paid out of his own funds $1,500 . After serving two years in the
Senate, Mr. Turner resigned his seat in 1840 , on account of sickness
in his family . After retiring from the bar, he devoted the remainder
of his life to agricultural pursuits and to raising thoroughbred stock .
He died in Boone county , March 4 , 1874 , leaving a widow and three
children — the subject of this sketch , William Turner and Mrs. J. Rob
ert Garth . Mr. Turner was an active, enterprising business man ,
acquiring by his own industry and good management a large landed
and slave estate ; his farm on the Two-mile prairie consisted of 3,000
acres ; this farm was divided equally among his three children . Hon .
Squire Turner , the subject of this sketch , was reared and educated in
Boone county , graduating from the State University , July 4 , 1855 .
After completing his literary studies he entered the law office of his
uncle, Squire Turner , Sr., at Richmond , Kentucky ; he was admitted
to the bar at Frankfort on examination by Chief Justice Simpson ,
February, 1858 ; ' he practiced law with his uncle until 1860 ; he was
married October 16 , 1860, in Madison county , Kentucky, to Miss
Stone, soon after which he moved to Columbia , Missouri, where he
commenced the practice of law , but was interrupted by the war, which
closed the courts and put an end to business in his line . In 1862 Mr.
Turner, in company with quite a number of the most prominent citi
zens of Boone county , was banished . He went to Vincennes , Indiana ,
where he practiced his profession in partnership with Hon . William E.
Niblack , for many years a member of Congress , and at present chief
justice of Indiana . In 1864 Mr. Turner was permitted to return , and
has resided in Boone county and practiced at the Columbia bar ever
since . In 1872 he was elected to the lower house of the Missouri Leg
islature , after a long and hotly contested campaign with Col. E. C.
More . While a member of the Legislature he was made chairman of
the committee on criminal jurisprudence and of the committee on
the State University ; he was also a member of the judiciary commit
tee. Heredeemed his pledge made to the people during the canvass,
that if elected he would use his best endeavors to secure the passage
of a bill calling for a constitutional convention to relieve the people of
certain odious restrictions riveted upon them during the war, when only
Radicals were allowed to vote . The measure failed in the first regular
session , but with untiring energy he succeeded in getting the bill
through the adjourned session . It was during this struggle that Mr.
Turner delivered his great speech on the “ infamous Drake constitu
tion ,"
spoken of by several of the metropolitan journals as one of the
ablest efforts ever delivered in the Missouri Legislature. It was widely
published , and raised a torrent of indignation against the old consti
tution . This speech placed Mr. Turner in the very front rank of de
baters -- a position he holds to - day. The bill calling for a new con
stitutional convention was drawn up in the committee of which he was
chairman . In addition to other beneficial results of the new constitu
tion may be mentioned one provision in particular , which puts a limit
to the power of county courts in appropriating the funds of a county
towards furthering railroad jobs and enterprises. He is also the author
of the bill, passed and entered as a statute, making seduction a felony,
and the crime of rape punishable with death , at the discretion of the
jury . In politics, Mr. Turner has always been a Democratof themost
rigid , strict-construction school. His course , both as a citizen and
representative , has always been one of undeviating consistency . He
engaged in the canvass for Hancock and English in 1880 , and made a
number of speeches in 1878. He refused to vote for Greeley and
Brown in 1872, although`a candidate for the Legislature at the time,
and well aware of the fact that this opposition would , for the time
being , prove prejudicial to his canvass. He frankly told ; the people
that he could not support Greeley and Brown , both of whom were bit
ter , vindictive Republicans, having spent the best years of their lives
abusing the Democratic party . Few men have the nerve and power
to resist a popular hobby of their party while asking its support ; yet
Turner not only did this, but was sustained in his position by men who
voted for Greeley and Brown, for their conscience told them that Tur
ner was right. Unlike many others of the oldest and most wealthy
scions of the early pioneers of Boone, Mr. Turner holds fast to his
family real estate on the Two-mile prairie the finehomestead which
he inherited from his father , A. W. Turner. He loves his home and
the people and associations of his childhood with a warmth and fervor
too rarely seen in this commercial age . In 1878 Mr. Turner was a can
didate for Congress, but his county being divided , he withdrew at the
Sturgeon convention to avoid a squabble, and Gen. John B. Clark ,
Jr., was nominated . He was urged by friends in Boone and Howard
to become a candidate in 1880 , and again in 1882 , but there being
other aspirants in those counties , he shrank from what he feared would
be a disagreeable scramble for office . As a lawyer at a leading bar in
Kentucky and Missouri, Mr. Turner has always maintained an honora

ble and lucrative position . In Boone county no leading criminal case
is tried in which he has not been counsel — always for the defence .
He enjoys such standing now that suitors on the circuit docket do not
risk the chances of leaving him out when they make up their roster of
counsel. As a scholar, there are few better in the country . His read
ing hus by no means been confined to law , but covers the whole field
of English literature . As a writer , he wields one of the most vigor
ous, incisive, and logical pens. Having a thorough command of the
language, he is never at a loss while writing and speaking. His style
is classical, but never burdened with classical allusions. He has never
been a favorite among the rich , nor with corporations ; his firmest and
truest friends are found among the middle class. He has a thorough
contempt for the cringing, truckling sort , who worship at the shrine
of fortune. Of him it may justly be said that he never
“ Crooks the pregnant hinges of the knee,
That thriftmay follow fawning."
JOHN DAVID VANHORN .
The subject of this sketch is the son of Simeon J.and Eliza (White )
Vanhorn ; he was born in Boone county , Missouri, August 22 , 1821 ;
he was educated at the public schools of Columbia , and served an ap
prenticeship at the carpenter's trade , working with his uncle, John
Vanhorn . In 1850 he went to California , where he remained one year,
;
returning to Columbia in 1851 ; he then engaged in the hotel business,

having charge of the Selby House for about two years. In 1853 he
sold out and went to work at his trade,which he followed until 1872 ; in
the spring of that year he engaged in the livery business, in partner
ship with R. H. Smith . In 1874 the stable was consumed by fire , but
the horses , twenty -six in number , were saved . Mr. Sunith remained
in the business one year after the fire , when Mr. Vanhorn purchased
bis interest in the stable , and has conducted the business alone ever
since . He was married December 1, 1850, to Miss Elizabeth J., daugh
ter of Matthew and Prudence (Lilly ) Culbert . They had eight chil
dren born to them — three sons and five daughters — only two of
whom (David and Susan ) are now living. Mr. Vanhoru's father was
one of the earliest settlers of Howard county and spent several years
in Head's Fort ; he was a native of Winchester county , Virginia ; he
is huried somethree miles from where he first settled . Mrs. Vanhorn ,
mother of John David , died about twenty -three years ago and is
buried in Howard county . Mr. Vanhorn is the oldest of nine children ,

all of whom are dead but three . Joshua is living in Saline, and Ward
in Howard . Mr. Vanhorn spent a large portion of his early life in
the family of his uncle, Judge John Vanhorn , an account of whose
life and services in connection with the early history of the county ,
appears elsewhere in this volume. He was judge of the county court
for twelve years. In 1850 he polled the largest vote ever cast for a
candidate in the history of the county . He died in 1880, in the eighty
fourth year of his age ; he was buried in the Columbia cemetery .
He was twice married , but had no children ; he was first married in
1817 , to Miss Nancy White , a native of Virginia ; she died in 1877 ,
and is buried in the Columbia cemetery . John Vanhorn was appointed
jailor when the war broke out, and held the position until its close .
He was a Union man .
ABRAHAM VICTOR .
The subject of this sketch is the son of Isaac and Caroline (Lion )
Victor, of Spiesen , Prussia , where he was born November 15 , 1835 .
He came to the United States in the spring of 1852 and settled in
Rocheport , Boone county , Missouri, engaging in the sale of dry goods
and notions which he peddled , travelling on horseback . In 1854 he
left Boone county , but continued the business of peddling until 1857,
when , in partnership with Simon Schiffman , he opened a store of
general merchandise at Georgeton , Missouri. He remained in this
business until 1863, when he sold out and returned to Prussia . After
a stay of fifteen months he returned to the United States in 1864 ,
settling in Columbia , Missouri, where he was employed as a salesman
by A. & M. Barth . In 1865 he went to Rocheport and engaged in
the mercantile business under the firm name of Victor, Myer & Co.
They failed in business in 1869 and again in 1871. They also had a
store in Columbia . In 1872 Mr. Victor went in business with Loeb ,
Myer & Co., Columbia , Missouri, and remained with them for two
years. August 1st , 1874 , he bought Fred . Mayfield's liquor store on
Broadway and Ninth Street. He is now running the only wholesale
liquor store in Boone county . He is exclusive agent for the wholesale
trade of Anheuser's lager beer . He also deals largely in hides, tal
low , furs , etc. In addition to the liquor and hide trade Mr. Victor is
largely interested in railroad ties , buying from forty to fifty thousand
annually . He has a tobacco and cigar store on Broadway, under the
firm name of A. Victor & Co. The liquor and hide store is conducted
under the individualname of the proprietor. Mr. Victor was married
March 21st, 1866 , to Aurelia , daughter of Abraham Arnold . They

have four children, two sons and two daughters. Their names are
Bell, Minnie, Isadore and Albert. One child died in infancy . Mr.
The
Victor is one of eight children , five daughters and three sons .
subject of this sketch is the youngest of the family and the only one
now in America . Mr. Victor is a member of the Masonic order , also
an Odd Fellow .
JAMES H. WAUGH .
Mr. Waugh is a native of Kentucky, and was born in Nicholas county ,

December 26 , 1832. His parents were Archer S. and Matilda G.
( Piper ) Waugh , also natives of Kentucky , the latter of whom still
survives in her eightieth year , and resides near Carlisle, Kentucky .
James H. was reared on his father's farm and received his education
in the country schools and the town of Carlisle . In October , 1854,
at twenty -one years of age, he came to Columbia , this county , and
began clerking in the dry goods store of J. H. Parker . Subsequent
to this he was deputy sheriff for several years, and in January , 1862,
was appointed sheriff by Governor Gamble , to succeed John M. Sam
uel, who declined to take the required oath of loyalty . In November
following, Mr. Waugh was elected to the office, and served two years .
He took no part in the civil war, other than acting occasionally asmili
tary escort to St. Louis . Associating himself, in 1865 , with Mr.
John M. Samuel, Mr. Waugh and he organized the Exchange National
Bank of Columbia, with Mr. Waugh as president and Mr. Samuel as
cashier. Besides Mr. Waugh, the directors were R. L. Todd, Gen. J.
B. Douglass, Sanford F. Conley , John Machir , Dr. William H. Dun
can and William W. Tucker. The directors were subsequently in
creased to nine in number , and Mr. Waugh has been president ever
since the organization . He has served the city of Columbia in differ
ent official capacities since his residence here , and is at this writing
town treasurer . From 1867 till 1873 , he was treasurer of the Uni
versity board of curators. He helped organize the Valley National
Bank of St. Louis in 187 , and was a director therein till 1879. Hewas
also a director in the construction of the Boone County and Jefferson
City railroad , built from Centralia to Columbia . Mr. Waugh was
married at Arrow Rock , Missouri, May 3 , 1859, to Miss Sophia Sid
ney Venable, daughter of Hampton Sidney Venable , deceased . They
have one daughter living (Mary E. wife of Chas . B. Sanders , of St.
Joseph ) and one son and one daughter deceased , each dying at the
age of sixteen months. Mr. W. belongs to no church , but his wife
and daughter are Presbyterians . Politically ,he was formerly a Whig ,

but now votes the Democratic ticket. He has made his own business
capital, never having heired any patrimony. His success as a business
man is too pronounced to need any extended comment here .
DR . LEMUEL WATSON .
Dr. Watson belongs to a family , whose male members are or have

been , to a considerable extent, prominent physicians. His grand
father , Wm . Watson , was a native of London , England , and a cousin
to Sir Thomas Watson , the eminent English physician and medical
author , who was chief physician by appointment to Her Majesty the
Queen . Sir Thomas still lives in London , at an advanced age . Wm .
Watson came to America before the revolutionary war . He settled
in North Carolina, on Edenton Sound , near the Chowan river . Being
a stout Whig , or “ rebel , ” he had his property destroyed and bis
home broken up by the British soldiers under Cornwallis' command .
He removed to a plantation on the James river , in Virginia , and was
again burned out by King George's men .
Dr. Lemuel Watson was born in Orange county , North Carolina,
September 20 , 1824. He was educated in the common schools of his
neighborhood and at Jackson College , Middle Tennessee. He came
to the latter State when young, and remained until May , 1849 , when
he removed to Missouri. His first location was in Clay county , and
he afterwards resided in Clinton and Buchanan counties . He came
-
to Columbia in the fall of 1863. In 1874 he located in Lexington and

remained until the spring of 1881. Then , April 1 , he returned to
Columbia , where he still resides. Dr. Watson , inheriting the
family disposition , decided , upon reaching maturity , to become
a physician . He first began the study of medicine under his brother ,
Dr. John D. Watson , of Clay county . In 1851 to 1852 he at
tended lectures at Pope's Medical College , St. Louis. After practicing
about seventeen years, in 1869 he attended the Jefferson Medical Col
lege , Philadelphia , and in 1870 received a diplomaand an honorary de
gree the best that could be obtained in that celebrated school. The
doctor is a believer in electricity as a therapeutic agent , and has always
employed it when practicable. In 1879 he added the vitalizing electro
thereapeutic cabinet bath as an auxiliary to his ordinary course of
treatment of disease . The doctor is well versed in the science of elec
tricity and claims for his bath ( for which he is the sole agent in
Boone county ) that it is made for the use of physicians in their prac
tice as an auxiliary to medicine in the treatment of both acute and

chronic diseases, thereby increasing their armamenta medicamen
torum a hundred fold , enabling them to treat cases successfully that
have defied the most skilful treatment with medicine alone .
Owing to the diversity ofapplications that can be made with electricity

in this bath , combined or uncombined with hot vapor and hot dry air ,
many diseases yield readily to the bath treatment alone, yet a judi
cious system of medication is approved in conjunction with the bath .
As to the effect of the bath Dr. Watson maintains that in diseased con
ditions of the body it cleanses the skin and opens the pores ; equalizes
the circulation and relieves congestion ; preserves health and prevents
disease , purifies the blood by removing the impurities which accumu
late in the fluids and tissues of the body ; imparts vigor to the system
and strength to the mind ; removes morbid sensations and strengthens
the nerves . If you are tired and worn , it will refresh and invigorate.
Will establish more natural appetite , complete digestion , pure secre
tion , perfect assimilation , more complete nutrition . Will make
richer by giving you health . He has great success in the treatment
of disease by this method .
Dr. Watson has been twice married . His first wife was Miss Susan
Smith , of Ray , to whom he was married December 23d, 1853. By
this union there were four children , two of whom are now living , one,
Dr. Claude Watson, a rising young physician of Kansas City , and
the other, Miss Lulu Watson , at home with her father. Mrs. Susan
Watson died in July , 1860, and the doctor was subsequently married
to his present wife, who was Mrs. Anna Stone, a native of Kentucky.
There are no children of this marriage. The doctor and his family
are members of the Christian church and useful and honored members
of society .
DR . B. A. WATSON .
Dr. Berry Allen Watson was born in Charlotte county , Virginia ,

January 28th , 1834. Hemoved with his father to Callaway county in
1840. He graduated at Westminster College , Fulton, in 1857, with
the degree of A. B. After graduating ,he taught school. Was princi
pal of Dover Academy, in Lafayette county, Missouri, until 1860. Dur
ing the war served for a while in Capt. Jo . Shelby's company. From
1863 to 1864 he attended Louisville and Bellevue Medical colleges ,
graduating at the latter place in 1866. Located at Millersburg , Calla
way county , where he practiced for three years. In 1871 came to
Columbia , where he still resides. Dr. Watson was married May 4th ,
1864, to Clara E. Ward , of Callaway county . They have six children ,

all living. Mrs. Watson is a member of the Baptist church . Dr.
Watson is a Mason . He is also a member of the Boone county and
District Medical Association .
JAMES STANSBURY WHARTON .
James Stansbury Wharton , assistant miller and book -keeper of the

Columbia Milling Company, was born at Bunker's Springs ,West Vir
ginia , June 8th , 1856. He was educated at Frederick City , Maryland ,
attending the academy at that place for four years, graduating at the
age of sixteen . In 1872 he commenced themilling business at a place
called Sir John's Run , entering what was known as the Morgan Mills .
Stayed there three years. In 1876 he went to Tiffin , Seneca county ,
Ohio , and took charge of the Eureka Mills, owned by the Parker
brothers. Stayed with this firm two years . Leaving the Parkers he
went to Buckeye Town , Maryland , where he entered a mill owned by
C. S. Simmons. In 1879 he came to Columbia , Missouri, where he
was engaged by Anderson , Henderson & Co., proprietors of the Colum
bia Mills. He is now acting as clerk and assistant miller . He is a
practical miller and book -keeper, and a thorough business man . He
was married , April 21, 1881 , to Miss Katie, daughter of James and
Mary Jane ( Turner ) Brown .
WILLIAM EDMONSON WRIGHT.
William E. Wright , the official surveyor of Boone county , is the son

of Peter and Jenny Wright . Hewas born near Nashville, Tennessee ,
December 18th , 1818. His father was born in Virginia , June 25 ,
1787 , and moved with his father to Tennessee in the early settling of
that State . He grew to manhood on the farm near Nashville , and
was married September 20 , 1810 , to Jenny Edinonson. In July ,
1818 , came to Missouri and selected a home in Boone county, to
which he moved with his family the following year. He settled near
the head of the Two-mile prairie , about nine miles northeast of Co
lumbia . He was appointed county surveyor in 1821, and was also one
of the judges of the county court, and was elected to represent the
county in the Legislature in 1822 and 1824. He died May 28 , 1847.
The subject of this sketch was but eight months old when his parents
landed in Boone county . Hewas educated at the Columbia Academy
and at Bonne Femme Academy, under the instructions of Summer
field , Roche and Cunningham . Learned surveying under his father and
his uncle, George. Cannot remember when he could not give courses
from the compass . Accompanied his father and uncle on government
surveys when but fourteen or fifteen years old and assisted them in
their labors . He has followed farming and surveying since he reached
manhood . Was elected county surveyor in 1880. Had previously
acted as deputy . On assuming the duties of his office , he removed
to Columbia , where he now resides . Had previously lived in Missouri
township . Mr. Wright was married , January 13, 1848, to Augusta
C. Siedikum , of Savannah , Red River county , Texas . Mrs. Wright
is a native of Germany. They have had seven children , three of
whom are living . Mr. Wright is a Democrat in politics , and has been
all his life . He was a Union man during the war, but took no part
in the struggle. He is a member of the Christian church and a Mas

ter Mason .
WILLIAM POPE YEAMAN .
William Pope Yeaman was born in Hardin county , Kentucky , May

28 , 1832 . His father, Stephen M. Yeaman , was born in Pennsylvania ,
but while a small child emigrated , with his father , Samuel Yeaman ,
to Ohio ; but afterwards, in early manhood , sought a home in Ken
tucky, where he studied law and was admitted to the bar and soon
gained for himself a responsive and remunerative practice . At the
age of twenty -seven he married Miss Lucretia Helm , daughter of
Hon . George Helm , of Hardin county .
The subject of this sketch is the third child and third son in a
family of nine children , eight of whom were sons. He studied law
in the office of his uncle , Gov. John L. Helm , at Elizabethtown ,
Kentucky , and at the age of nineteen was admitted to the bar. At
about the same age he was married to Miss Virginia Shackelford , of

Hardin county , Kentucky . This lady, by her many noble and ster
ling qualities ,has proven a help -meet indeed to her husband . A large
and interesting family of children have claimed her almost undivided
attention and afforded her a real pleasure . For nine years Mr.
Yeaman devoted his talents and energies to the practice of law ,
and , for so young a man , he attained to remarkable eminence in his
profession .
At the age of twenty - seven , after a severe and prolonged struggle
between ambition and a sense of duty , he yielded to his conviction of
duty to preach the gospel, and was ordained a minister of the Baptist
church . His first pastorate was at Nicholasville, Kentucky.
In 1862 Mr. Yeaman was called from this church to the pastorate
of the First Baptist church in the city of Covington , Kentucky . In

this pulpit he was the successor of many of the leading ministers of
his denomination .
In December , 1867, he accepted a call from a prominent church in
the city of New York . In that city he soon took high rank among
his brother ministers, and the church of his charge — the Central
Baptist church - was greatly increased in numbers and influence .
In March , 1870, he accepted a call from the Third Baptist church ,
of St. Louis, and in the following month entered upon the work of
this important field . In the same year the faculty and trustees of
William Jewell College conferred on him themerited honor of doctor
of divinity .
In 1875 Dr. Yeaman was elected chancellor of William Jewell
College , and two years afterwards resigned .
In October , 1876 , he resigned the pastorate of the Third Baptist
church of St. Louis , and gave his time and attention to the duties of
the chancellorship , and to the editorial management of the Central
Baptist, the denominational organ in the State .
In April, 1877 , he was called to the Garrison Avenue Baptist
Church , and in October , 1877, he retired from the editorial chair to
give his timemore entirely to preaching.
In the same month he was chosen president of the Missouri Baptist
General Association , at an annual meeting held in the city of Lex
ington .
In 1882 he yielded to the wishes of his many friends and became a
candidate for state superintendent of public schools of Missouri.
Though he went into the convention with the strongest following, he
was beaten for the nomination by a combination of the adherents of
weaker candidates . The same year Dr. Yeaman removed to Co
lumbia , and will make his future home in the Athens of Missouri."
DAVID H. YOUNG , M. D.,

Was born in Boone county , Missouri, July 3 , 1856 . His father ,
Archibald L. Young, was also a physician , and was a native of Jessa
mine county , Kentucky, born September 30 , 1829. He was one of a
family of seven children , six sons, and a daughter . Himself and all
bis brothers studied medicine, and five out of six became practicing
physicians. Their only sister married a medical doctor, and their
father -grandfather to the subject of this sketch - was also an M.
D. Dr. Archibald L. Young, took his first degree at the Transyl

vania University of Lexington , Kentucky, and the next, at the New
York ( city ) College of Physicians and Surgeons, graduating from
both those institutions. He practiced in the city hospitals for two
years after his graduation before returning to Kentucky. He only
remained a short time in his native State , when he came out to Mis
souri and located for the practice at Fulton , Callaway county . Dur
ing his residence there , he was physician of the deaf and dumb
asylum , and assistant physican of the lunatic asylum . His coming to
Fulton was in about 1849, and he remained till the spring of 1856 ,
when he moved to Columbia , this county , where he remained till his
death , on February 23, 1869 . He had married , in 1853 , Miss Sarah
Hickman , daughter of Capt. D.M.Hickman , one of the early settlers
of Boone county . Five children were born of that marriage, the sub
ject of this sketch being the oldest . The others were named respec
tively , Mattie, Archibald , Cornelia and Sallie , all living except Mattie ,
who died when only two years old . Dr. D. H. Young was educated
at the Kemper Institute , Boonville , Mo. and the State University , at
Columbia . He studied medicine with Dr. A. W. McAlester , of
Columbia , and also took the medical course of the University. He
received the degree of M.D. from the Missouri Medical College , of St.
Louis , in 1877. Returning to Columbia , he practiced medicine for
two years , then went and took a course at Bellevue Medical College,
of New York , from which he came back to Columbia , and resumed
the practice , in which he continues at this writing .
CHAPTER XX .
MISSOURI TOWNSHIP .
Topography – “ Terrapin Neck " — The “ Pictured Rocks" - Caves — Borough's Cave -
Early Settlers and Settlements - The “ Firsts " - Lo ! the Poor Indian – Killing of
Todd and Smith by the “ Noble Savages " - Statements of Joseph Cooper and James
Barnes — Persinger's Account of the Affair and of the Battle on the Bonne Femme (?) –
A Bear Hunt - Organization - Early Mills – Tragedies - In the Civil War — Killing
of Sidney Denham — Fight between Desperadoes and a Deputy Sheriff — Negro Riot-
Country Churches and Cemeteries — The Town of Rocheport. – Early History - Notes
of General History – Cholera in Rocheport - During the Civil War - Bushwhacker
Raids — The “ Buffington ” Affair- Anderson's Attack on the “ Yellowstone " -Since the
War - Tobacco — The Riot of April, 1882 – Town Government - Public Schools
Cemetery - Churches — Secret Societies – Business Interests — Biographical Sketches of
Old Settlers and Prominent Citizens of Missouri Township .
TOPOGRAPHY ,
Missouri township is divided into about three well defined natural

divisions : The Missouri river valley , called “ Terrapin Neck ;' the
table lands lying between the Perche and Callaham hills on the east,
and the Moniteau hills on the west ; river hills on the south , and a
continuation of the plateau at the north which extends far into Perche
township . The table lands form the largest subdivision of this town
ship , and there is perhaps no finer land in the State of Missouri ;
certainly none finer than Thrall's prairie which forms the heart of
this plateau , the prairie portion of which lies in Perche township .
The blue grass which grows upon this plain is equal to the best grown
in Bourbon county, Kentucky, and furnishes ample pasturage the
year round for the vast herds raised in this section . The value of the
farms and the fertility of the soil has attracted to this section a class
of farmers equal in judgment, industry and skill to the superiority
of the soil they cultivate ; hence the agricultural interests of this
section of the county have been developed to a degree of excellence
hardly to be found elsewhere in the county . As a rule , stock raising
pays better than anything else , and when the plantation is once
stocked it requires less outlay of money to keep up the business .
Most of the land is in blue grass . The horses, cattle and sheep raised
in this portion of the township are nearly all thoroughbreds . Many
of the farmers sell almost exclusively for breeding purposes . Nearer
the hills , where the soil is less adapted to blue grass, immense crops of
wheat, corn and oats are annually produced . The river hills them
selves are very rich and produce the finest fruit grown in the country.
Some fine vineyards have of late years been planted and produce great
quantities of grapes . Peaches and apples seldom fail along the high
hills and sloping ridges near the river bank. The soil is rich enough
to produce any of the crops grown in this climate , but washes badly
when plowed .
Terrapin Neck ' is a long, narrow strip of river -bottom land
extending from a few miles below Rocheport to the mouth of the
Perche, which flows into the Missouri river near Providence . This
body of land is very rich , producing fine corn and wheat. Before
the war large crops of hemp were raised in this section , but of late
years the principal crop has been corn . The corn crop never fails
in the bottom , and the hog crop , upon an average, is equal to twice
the production of a like area of territory elsewhere in the township .
The valleys of the Moniteau, Perche, Callaham and Sugar Creek ,
and the various tributaries of those streams are little less productive
than the river bottom and produce a greater diversity of crops .
Missouri township has a greater variety of soil, and less that is
wholly unproductive , perhaps, than any other subdivision of the
county . The Perche flows from north to south directly through the
eastern portion of the township . The valley lands along this stream
are densely settled and the farms on either side extend almost to the
water's edge . The stream drains a large extent of territory and is
subject to overflows, but of late years many of the exposed planta
tions have been enclosed with wire and post and rail fences that are
proof against the floods.
Missouri is well supplied with bridges and is connected with Colum
bia and Rocheport by a good macadamized road . The internal
improvements are fully upon an average with the most favored
-sections of the county .
REMARKABLE NATURAL FEATURES.
THE PICTURED ROCKS .
On the Missouri river , about four miles east of Rocheport , are

what are known by the local name of “ the pictured rocks,” called
elsewhere “ the Indian pictographs of Boone county .” They consist
of a number of drawings of a rude character, together with some sort
of hieroglyphics, made upon the surface of a high cliff of rocks.
The o pictured rocks ” are upon the land of L. Torbett, Esq., on

whose farm are also some eight or nine mounds. On one of these
mouvds stands the residence of Mr. Torbett . The present route to
the cave is eastward from the house one hundred yards or more ,
thence south through a small field , at the edge of which a short path
leads down a steep ravine densely overgrown with trees and vines ,
from which the visitor soon emerges on the bank of the river . One
hundred yards down stream is a large spring which makes its appear
ance some thirty feet above the surface of the river. Coming out of a
cavernous opening , it rushes in a series of tortuous leaps over moss
covered rocks into the river . The volume of water discharged would
drive an ordinary mill . The cliff of rocks here is about one hundred
feet in height, the top overhanging some ten feet, protecting the lower
surface of the cliff, and this circumstance is one that accounts for the
preservation of the pictures to this day . All along the face of the
cliff, under the overhanging ledge or shelf, are the remarkable repre
sentations. At the height of nearly fifty feet above the spring is the
largest visible group . This comprises , among other pictures and
hieroglyphs, two rudely executed drawings of human figures, perhaps
twenty inches in height, with arms extended ; one small human figure
with a staff in its hand ; numerous circles, with dots and crosses in the
centre ; spots within semi-circles, half resembling the human eye, etc.
Other figures, at different places on the rocks, are those of a wild tur
key ; of a man wearing a jockey cap , from which a plumeor feather de
pends ; of numerous circles ; fantastic figures , some of an arabesque
character , others plain ; of a square or cube ; of a Masonic compass
and square, etc.
About five feet below the most of the figures runs a narrow ledge ,
on which the artist or artists must have stood when the pictures were
made. The ledge is reached from points east and west , but it re
quires a person of some nerve to climb to it. Some of the figures ,
however , are fifteen feet above the ledge , and could not have been
made without the aid of a ladder of some sort . The drawings seem
to have been made of a paint composed of ground keel ” mixed with
water or grease , and applied with the fingers or a rude brush . Not
all of the pictures can now be seen , as a great portion of the face of
the cliff is covered with ivy .
Who the artists were that sketched these pictures, and what ( if
anything ) they represent , cannot now but be conjectured . They have
62
existed since the first white men told of this country. The first
printed mention of them is made by Lewis and Clark , who saw them
in 1804. Doubtless they are the work of the mound builders , or of
some other race akin to them .
Coal. One and a half miles northeast of Rocheport, on the lands.
now owned by David Mead and Mrs. Woods, is a fine bed of coal.
The vein varies from twenty -six inches to four feet in thickness , and
lies at a depth of from eight to thirty feet from the surface . Near
the bank , and on the same lands, is a fine mineral spring .
Caves. - On the bank of the Missouri river , three miles southeast
of Rocheport , is the “r Sinking Creek Cave.” It has been penetrated .
and explored for nearly a mile . It contains many remarkable and
interesting features . It abounds in beautiful stalactites and stalag
mites, and other natural features delightful to contemplate . The cave
is divided into rooms or chambers, some of which are fifteen feet
square. At the entrance the inner roof of the cave is about eight feet.
high , but farther in the interior it ranges from ten to fifteen feet .
BOROUGHS's CAVE .
One mile east of Midway , on the old Reuben Hatton place , is a re

markable spring , the most singular, perhaps, in the county . It
breaks out from under a perpendicular cliff of limestone, some twelve
or fifteen feet high , and flows south across a small valley heinmed in
on all sides by a natural wall of limestone. At the distance of about
one hundred yards it enters the earth again , running for one-fourth of
a mile under a high ridge of table land bedded upon ledges of cavern
ous limestone. The second time it bursts forth into light of day it
flows into a large branch , a tributary of Boroughs's fork of Calla
han , which heads a few miles northwest of Midway . About one mile
from where this stream enters the Callaham , is Boroughs's cave ,
which , next to Connor's, is the greatest natural curiosity in that sec
tion of the country. A short distance from the mouth it forks, one
prong being destitute of water, while a large stream flows through
the other . This cave, in the early settling of the country , was a great
resort for bear, and the pioneer hunters used to lie in wait at the en
trance and shoot them as they passed in and out. Some, still more
daring, would light a torch and boldly enter the cave . When the
light flashed upon the astonished animal, Bruin would rise upon his
baunches and gaze bewilderedly at the venturesome hunter, who seized
the precious moment to his own advantage, and either shot the bear
or plunged a bowie -knife, tied to the end of a pole , through the ani
mal's heart .
EARLY SETTLERS AND SETTLEMENTS .
The first settlement of Boone county in earnest began in Missouri

township , in the year 1816. True, prior to this date , some of the
Howard county hunters had established temporary camps here, but
they could not with propriety be called settlers . Wm . Pipes lived
in the township in 1812. It was from Head's Fort, in Howard
county , about two and a half miles northwest of Rocheport, whence
the settlements in Boone county were formed .
From Stephens ' sketch it is learned that in the spring of the year
1816 a number of the inhabitants of Head's Fort located near Roche
port, settling on what was afterwards known as Thrall's Prairie ,
north of the present site of Rocheport. This settlement was made
by Anderson Woods, in company with the following other persons,
viz . : Robert Barclay, John Barnes, Wm . Pipes, Absalom Hicks, John
Stephenson , Jefferson Fulcher, Jesse Richardson , a family of Bartons,
and several others . The settlement grew rapidly , and soon composed
some among the best citizens of the county and State .
Among the pioneers settlers may be mentioned Augustus Thrall ,
Oliver Parker , Anderson Woods , Dr. G. B. Wilcox, Clayton Herne,
Tyre Harris, Overton Harris , the Wilhites (Sampson , William , and
Stephen ), Henry Lightfoot, James Ketchum , William Gosline, John
Slack , Wilford Stephens, Jonathan Barton , James Cochran , Reuben
Hatton , and Charles Laughlin . The names of others ought to be
given , but cannot now be learned .
For the most part the first settlers located on New Madrid claims,
or, as they were sometimes called , “ Madrid locations." These
claims were granted to the settlers in the New Madrid country in lieu
of the lands occupied by them which had been destroyed or damaged
by the great earthquakes of 1811. The most of this land in Missouri
township bad been entered by Taylor Berry and George Tennille ,
who had purchased a number of certificates from the New Madrid
sufferers.
Up to 1820 the following , among others, had settled near Roche
port and Thrall's Prairie : John Gray , Gaven Head, John Berry ,
David and Andrew McQuitty , Samuel Beatty , Robert Dale , John
i so named for Col. Augustus Thrall.

Copher , Solomon and Zachariah Barnett, Wm . Baxter, James Boggs ,

David and James Pipes, John Copeland , David Kincaid , Wm . Lientz ,
John G. Phillips , Michael Woods, J. R. Abernathy, Robert D.
Walkup, Tyre Harris .
East and southeast of Rocheport, in what is known as “ Terrapin
Neck , ” there lived Granville Bledsoe, Daniel Lewis, James Lewis ,
Wm . Lewis , Patterson Y. Russell, Jesse Lewis , Wm . Burch , John
Graves, Ichabod C. Hensley , Thomas Williams and Richard Ful
kerson .
East of Rocheport and in the north central portion of the township ,
in the region around about where Midway post-office now stands , the
pioneer settlers were John Henderson , Jonathan Freeman , Benjamin
Mothershead , Chas. Laughlin , W. T. Hatton , George Grump, Wm .
and James Y. Jones, Johu Ogan , Wm . Douglass , John M. Robinson ,
Wyatt McGee, George Hersch , Reuben and John M. Robinson .
George Hersch , “ the honest man ," was a German , and a remark
able character , a cabinet maker, who lived about two miles north of
Midway, on a small stream known as Barclay's Fork of the Callaham .
He was something of a poet himself, and , although a German , was
a great admirer of Burns and Scotch poetry , which he was fond of
quoting on every occasion . Hersch had the weakness of his favorite
poet's noted character , Tam O'Shanter, and would get " unco ' fu ’ ”
quite On one occasion of this sort some wags waylaid
frequently .
him after night and sought to make him believe that Old Nick was
upon him . . Nothing frightened , Hersch . drew himself up , and , im
provising a rhyme appropriate to the occasion, exclaimed :
“ Here stands George Hersch , an honest man !
Take him , Devil, if you can !”
George Hersch died many years ago, respected and mourned by all
who knew him .
John Caruthers , an old soldier of the war of 1812 , was for many
years a resident of this township , coming here in 1832 . He was
a native of Virginia , born in 1793. By reading an account of the
surveys and explorations of Col. Fremont he became interested in
the study of geology , and read everything he could procure upon
or pertaining to that subject. He became well versed in chemistry ,
botany, mineralogy , philosophy , engineering , and bis knowledge of
geology was very elaborate and thorough. Mr. Caruthers died in
1879 .
Among the first settlers of this township were members of the

Wilhite family . Sampson Wilhite and his three sons, William , Ste
phen and Fielding Wilhite , came from Kentucky to this township
( then Howard county ) as early as the year 1818. They located in
the neighborhood of Rocheport, where many of their descendants
yet live . They were all farmers . Stephen Wilhite was a blacksmith
as well as a farmer ; Fielding Wilhite was a farmer and a Baptistmin
ister . All of them lived reputable lives and died full of years and
honors. Probably the first loom was brought into the township by
Mrs. Sampson Wilhite in 1818. The greater part of the clothing for
families was carded , spun and woven by the female members, and
was usually made up of wool and flax ; the latter being among the
first crops raised . The first brick house in the township was built by
Sampson Wilhite in the year 1822. It is still standing and is the
house now occupied by J. E. Hart, four miles from Rocheport, on the
Sturgeon road .
Reuben Hatton settled on a farm about one mile east of Midway ,
about the year 1818. He came to Missouri in 1816 , spending over
one year in St. Louis county . He was a local preacher of the Meth
odist church , and was mainly instrumental in building up “ Brick
Chapel, ” now known as Locust Grove church . He was a native of
Virginia and served seven years in the revolutionary army . He raised
ten sons and three daughters, of whom two sons and one daughter
are now living. Reuben Hatton died about the year 1840. Several
of his sons and their families are well known in Boone county . Gen.
S. B. Hatton , Col. William Hatton , R.M., Fleming and Wesley B.
Hatton all raised families in Boone county . The wife of Reuben Hat
ton was Joan Beleau , who was of French -Huguenot origin . The
Beleaus, in the second generation after their banishment, changed the
spelling to “ Bellew .” They were married in South Carolina where
their first children were born . They moved to Madison county , Ken
tucky, and from there to Missouri.
THE FIRSTS . ”
Dr. George B. Wilcox, from Tennessee , is said to have been not

only the first practicing physician in Missouri township , but the first
in Boone county . He came to the township as early as 1816 , when
white men were very few in the territory now comprised in Boone
county . Dr. Wilcox died in Rocheport about the year 1860.
Rev. Thos . Campbell, a Baptist , it is alleged , preached the first
sermon and conducted the first religious exercises in the township at
the house of Sampson Wilhite , in the fall of the year 1818. Field
ing Wilhite was cotemporary with Campbell.
In the early settlement of Missouri township the leading religious
denominations were the Baptists , Presbyterians and Methodists .
Morality was the general rule. The young people were rather strictly
reared . The majority of the first settlers opposed dancing , and the
amusements of the young folks were of the simplest character , con
sisting chiefly of innocent games and plays .
The first post-office in the township ( and probably the first in the
county ) was established at Thrall's prairie in 1819, and named Lex
ington . Probably Oliver Parker was the first postmaster , although
this distinction is claimed by Mr. Lientz for Dr. Geo. B. Wilcox.
Others assert that Parker was the first and Wilcox the second . In
1828 this post -office was removed to the house of Wm . Lientz . The
name was changed by Col. Thos. H. Benton from Lexington to Boone
ton . Mr. Lientz was appointed postmaster . In 1832 the office was
removed to Rocheport. When first established the mail was brought
to Lexington from St. Charles on horseback . Mr. Lientz lived on
the olà Columbia and Franklin road .
The first store in the township was established by Oliver Parker , at
Thrall's Prairie, in 1818 or 1819. His stock in trade was small, to
be sure , but it was none the less valuable , at that day. He kept lead ,
powder, sugar , coffee , cloths and a few other articles . Small as was
his beginning, and unfavorable as his surroundings were , Mr. Parker's
business grew and flourished until he eventually amassed a fortune.
An incident showing Mr. Parker's gallantry and bravery will bear
relating in this connection . On one occasion Mr. Parker started for
St. Louis to replenish his stock of goods. Hehad his money in gold
and silver in his saddle-bags, as. he travelled on horseback . The
ferry boat at St. Charles at that day was a small affair , capable of
carrying over one wagon at a time,and propelled by oars. On the trip
when Mr. Parker was a passenger the boat struck a snag and began
to sink . He seized his saddle-bags and prepared to save himself, but,
seeing a lady who was on board in great distress and peril, he threw
away his treasure — every cent — and devoted his energies to saving
her , fortunately with success .
In 1823 Mr. Parker built a residence in Columbia , afterward the
nucleus of Stephens Female College . He became one of the leading
i One account says in 1818 .

citizens of Columbia and of the county , and was a resident of Colum

bia at the time of his death ..
When Parker's store was first opened he handled but little money .
The settlers were wont to exchange produce for such “ store goods
as they were compelled to purchase. Bacon , corn , beeswax, hides and
pelts , were the chief articles of barter used by the settlers. About all the
money required was enough to pay taxes ; everything else could be
traded for. Prices of everything the people had to sell were very
low . A good cow brought only $ 5 ; dressed hogs sold for $ 1.50 and
$ 2 per cwt. ; a day's labor could be had for 25 cents , etc., etc.
Upon the first settlement of the township the settlers made their
own salt . In the fall months they would visit the numerous salt
springs in different parts of the township and spend some days in
boiling down the saline waters into a very fair article of salt . It was
coarse , to be sure, but it was strong, and answered every purpose
very well .
The first school- house was located at the Big Spring . It was built
by the settlers sometime after the year 1820 and prior to 1825. The
house was a very simple structure . It was composed of round logs,
with clapboard roof and puncheon floor. The cracks were chinked
and daubed with mud ; the chimney was of mud and sticks, and alto
gether the structuremuch resembled a settler's dwelling -house . Who
taught the first termof school in this house cannot with certainty be
learned , but Asa Brown is remembered as a teacher who taught at an
early day.
The first mill in the township was a horse mill,put up by John Cope
land in 1819. The flour was bolted or sieved by hand . The mill
was so well patronized that customers often had to wait days for
their turn . The first grist mill that ran by water power was built by
William Stapleton in 1835 .
The first road through the township was the old St. Charles road ,
running from St. Charles to Old Franklin , in Howard county . It was
known for years as the St. Charles and Franklin road . The road
was much travelled at an early day , it being the principal thorough
fare leading from St. Louis and St. Charles to the Upper Missouri
country . In 18301 the first public conveyances , a line of stage
coaches , were put upon this road , it is said , by George Sexton , Esq .
The line ran from St. Louis to Old Franklin . Mr. Sexton also estab
Another date is given , 1825 .

lished the first stage line from Rocheport to Fayette . Prior to the
establishment of Sexton's stage line the mails were carried on horse
back . In August, 1821 , the county court established a road “ to run
from Columbia to intersect the St. Charles road at or near Augustus
Thrall’s field .” . John Gray was appointed the commissioner to lay

out this road .
The first murder by a white man of a white man in the neighbor
hood occurred just over the Howard line, as is believed , since no
mention of the case can be found in the records of this county . The
case was the killing of David Copher by Bird Lawless, in 1831. The
affair grew out of a cattle trade between the two men , resulting in a
dispute , then a quarrel, then a killing . Lawless was tried at Fuyette ,
before Judge David Todd, found guilty of manslaughter , and sen
tenced to six months' imprisonment in the county jail and to pay a
fine of $ 500 .
THE INDIANS .
In the early settlement of the township roving bands of Indians

from the north , principally from the Sacs ( or Saukees ) , Foxes , Iowas
and Pottawattamies , visited this locality from time to time. After
the war of 1812 these Indians were uniformly friendly , though very
troublesome on account of their begging and thievisb. propensities.
Many incidents might be narrated of the peculiar conduct ofthe savages
when in the Missouri township settlements , and the adventures of the
settlers with them , but are omitted for want of space .
As early as 1818 , upon the first permanent settlement, there were
no resident Indians, they having all left some years prior to that date.
Sometimes when they came into the locality and made a camp they
evinced a disposition to remain permanently , but the whites would in
variably give them to understand that on no account would they be
permitted to stay for all time, and then would command them to
“ puck -a -chee, ” — i.e., to move on at once.
KILLING OF TODD AND SMITH BY THE INDIANS IN 1813 .
One of the tragic incidents connected with the early settlement and
history of the Boone's Lick country was the killing by the Indians of Jon
athan Todd and Thomas Smith , two settlers from Fort Hempstead , in
Howard county , in the year 1813..
year 1813 Todd and Smith had gone out from
the fort to hunt for some horses , which , they thought, had strayed
away . The country was infested with Iowa Indians, also Sacs and
Foxes, very hostile and very crafty . The settlers wandered away in
search of their animals (which had really been stolen by the Indians)
until they were beyond the reach of aid from their comrades in the
fort . One account says that they were decoyed away by the Indians.
When the settlers had reached a point in this township on section
27, township 49 , range 14 , now on the farm of Sampson S. Wilhite ,
Esq ., they were fired on by the Indians , and after a hard fight both
were killed . After they were killed the Indians cut off their heads
and cut out their hearts and stuck them up on poles . Todd and
Smith were the first whites killed in the Boone's Lick country .
One account of this affair, furnished by an old citizen of Missouri
township , is to the effect that when Todd and Smith were attacked a
desperate combat ensued , ending in their being overpowered and mur- ·
dered within two miles of Head's Fort , to which place they were fight
ing their way . They were killed half a mile apart. When found
Todd's head was placed by the body of Smith , seemingly to let the
'whites know that both had been killed . The bodies, it is said , were
buried on the farm of Mr. Wilhite , where their graves may yet be
seen .
Capt . Joseph Cooper , of Howard county , son of Sarshall Cooper

and an inmate of Cooper's Fort at the time, in a letter, written in
January , 1874 , published in Campbell's Gazetteer ( p . 244 ) makes the
following statement :
COL. NEWTON G. ELLIOTT : Dear Sir - The letter of my early and tried friend, Capt..
Joseph Cooper, in relation to the early settlement of the Boone's Lickcountry, has been read
to me and I heartily endorse as true all he said. My eyesight is so dim thut I am unable to
read it myself, being 86 years old . I came to the Boone's Lick country in 1810, and was a
participant in very many of the incidents mentioned in Capt. Cooper's letter. Harrison
Jameson (my brother- in -law ) and myself were making saltpeter in a cave just below the
mouth of Moniteau Creek the morning that Jonathan Todd and Thomas Smith were killed .
We had been informed by the Indian agent that the Indians were coming to kill us, and
thatmorning we threw all our saltpeter into a canoe and started for Fort Kincaid , arriving
there in time to go out with the command to get the dead bodies of Todd and Smith and
chastise the Indians, if found ; for after the murder they had set fire to the woods to destroy
their trail. * A great many other incidents of the early history of the county
might be given , but I, like others who participated, am getting too old to furnish a minute
history. Respectfully, JAMES BARNES .
PERSINGER'S ACCOUNT. BATTLE ON THE BONNE FEMME .
In a little pamphlet, published in 1861, by Joseph Persinger , en

titled , “ The Life of Jacob Persinger, " appears the following on page
20 , et seq . :
* Not long after this treaty was made, some hunters wentdown on the Bonne
Femme Creek to find some game, and, in traveling down an Indian path in pursuit of game,
they discovered the head of a white man sticking upon a pole. They became alarmed, im
mediately went back and reported what they had seen. The whites collected together as
quick as possible, made arrangements to catch the murderers, and started off to where the
bead was found . On arriving at the spot they found two men had been killed, which exas
perated them very much . They then entered into a compact that they would hunt from
day to day until they found the murderers, and seek revengeby taking the lives of thosewho
committed the atrocious deed. They started and traveled over a considerable scope of
country, and at length saw an Indian alone. They took him prisoner and interrogated him
in regard to the murder of the twomen , but he stoutly denied having any knowledge of the
murder at all. They then asked him if he knew of any Indians; he replied that he did, and
that they were then stationed on the point between the creek and the Missouri river.
The white men immediately set out to march against the Indians. They proceeded to get
as close as possible unobserved, and they succeeded. They crossed over the creek as noise
lessly as possible and formed a line that extended from the creek to the river. When they
cameupon the Indians they found them playing “ bandy. ” They made a rush and got be
tween them and their guns. The Indians knew now their only chance for safety would be
either to to swim Bonne Femme croek or the Missouri river ; but the whites were too fast for
them . They (the whites) made a charge and killed off all the Indians, forty -nine in number,
except one, who escaped with a broken arm . After the battle was over the whites took the
Indian prisoner upon the bottom or low ground on the Missouri river, and told him that if he
wished to save his life, he could do so by out-running any oneman in the company. The
Indian readily accepted to this proposition, and started off at full speed ; but a man named
Fugate started after him , caught him immediately and led him back to the company. The
whites then told him that they would give him another chance : that he might commence
running, and after he got a certain distunce from them they were to commence firing, and if
none of the balls struck he should go unharmed . The Indian started at full speed again .
After he got to the required distance he ran in an angular direction ; but the poor creature
did not get far until he fell dead, with seven bullet holes in him . This defeat of the Indians
settled the war with them for some time.
From Persinger's description of the ground , it is evident that the

fight with the Indians narrated in the foregoing, took place near the
mouth of Bonne Femme creek , in what is now Cedar township . It is
worthy of note, that no corroborative statements or accounts concern
:
ing the killing of the forty -nine Indians can be obtained at present,
and yet this remark is not intended as a denial that any such affair
ever came off .
A BEAR HUNT.
In the year 1823 a large black bear came into the neighborhood
where Andrew McQuitty lived . The alarm was given and a hunting
party was soon formed to give chase to the monster. Among those
composing this party , were Andrew McQuitty, Bird Lawless , Joshua
F. White , and some negro men . Bruin was soon found , and chased
into a sink -hole . Here the dogs were set upon him , but he soon
and very easily disposed of them , and they at last refused to come
to time.
Mr. McQuitty and his fellow -hunters had taken a drink or two of
pioneer whisky before setting out, and were somewhat under its
influence . Brave at all times, they were now reckless. One of the
negroes was a slave named Jeff, who belonged to McQuitty . Jeff's
master called out to him :
“ Dim you , Jeff, jump onto him with an ax .”
“ Good Lawd , massa !” replied Jeff ; “ see how he sarves de dogs !
What would be do to me? "
“ Never mind that,” said McQuitty : " you black rascal, jump onto
that bear , dim you .'
“ Golly ! massa , he'll kill me sure, an ' den yon'll lose more dan de
ole bar is wuff . Better jump on him yourself , massa l’'
“ Give me the ax then , dim you," and, seizing the weapon , Mr.
McQuitty walked out upon a log that lay partly across the sink -hole ,
and luckily enough struck the savage animal with the blade of the
ax a blow in the neck which severed its jugular, and it fell a quiver
ing carcass .
Springing to the main land McQuitty shouted triumphantly, “ Now ,
Jeff, you gad dim nigger , see what a man can do that is not a coward ! "
“ Yes,” replied Jeff, shaking his woolly head meditatively , but what
would have become of you , massa , if you'd fell off de log ? '
ORGANIZATION .
At the first session of the county court, February 18 , 1822, Mis

souri township was organized . When the territory was in Howard
county , it had comprised a portion of Moniteau township , and Tyre
Harris was justice of the peace , and James Harris constable . The
Boone county court appointed , (or recommended for appointment,)
John Gray to be justice of the peace , Ichabod C. Hensley constable ,
and Jesse B. Dale , assessor . It appears that the appointment of
these offices did not operate to legislate Tyre Harris out of office , for
there is a record of his having performed the functions of a magistrate
for some time afterward . The metes and bounds of Missouri town
ship first fixed by the county court, are the same to -day . The order
of the court establishing the township reads as follows :
" 4th township to be denominated Missouri township : Beginning at the mouth of the
Roche Perche creek , thence up the Missouri river to themouth of the Monitor creek ; thence
up said creek to where the dividing line between this county and Howard leaves the same;
thence with said dividing line to where it crosses the old St. Charles road ; thence eastwardly
with the said road to where it crosses the southeast corner of section 16, in range 14 , and
township 49 ; thence east with the sectional line to the western boundary of Columbia town
1 Properly spelled Moniteau.

ship ; thence south with said boundary to the northern boundary of Cedar township, thence
west with the said township boundary to the Roche Perche creek, thence down said creek
to the mouth , the point of beginning."
EARLY MILLS.
Among the earliest improvements in Missouri township should be

mentioned the Dixon and Stapleton mills east of the Callaham . The
first mill built in that region of country , other than the old -fashioned
horse -mills , was the Dixon water -mill, on the Callaham , about three
miles above the junction of that stream with the Perche. Robert
Scott was the mill -wright who built it . The first proprietor was a man
named Dixon . It was both a saw and grist-mill. Soon after it was
completed Dixon sold it to Gen. S. B. Hatton , who employed a skillful
millwright named Snith to add a number of improvements thereto ..
It ran night and day , but could not supply the demand for lumber .
Most of the lumber used in building the State University was sawed
at this mill. Soon after it was started Stapleton , a wealthy young
man from Howard county , commenced building a large steam mill.
about half a mile below the Dixon mill. When completed it was the
largest and most complete steam mill in the county . This mill also
furnished a large amount of lumber for the State University , but Sta
pleton did not prosper, from some cause or other, and soon sold the
property to the Sexton brothers , who conducted the business for sev
eral years , when they sold the mill and 500 acres of land to R. M. &
S. B. Hatton . Gen. Hatton sold the machinery to a man named
Renfroe, who moved it to Moniteau county . The machinery had
formerly done service in the paper-mill at Rockbridge, Boone county .
TRAGEDIES .
There is a tragedy connected with the history of each of those

mills . A man was drowned in attempting to cross the Callaham just
above Dixon's mill, but the name of the individual and the circum
stances of his death , are shrouded in mystery . The tragedy of Sta
pleton's mill is of a more thrilling nature. Two boys, sons of a Mr.
Kingsberry , a wealthy planter of Howard county , had come to spend
the Christmas with their sister , Mrs. Stapleton , whose husband was
very fond of hunting. He had promised to take the boys on a deer
chase , and in their impatience for the hunt they took their brother -in
law's güns and proceeded to load them . While thus engaged , one of
the guns was fired , accidentally , the ball piercing the heart of one of
the boys, who died without uttering a word .
IN THE CIVIL WAR .
During the civil war Missouri township bore its full share of the
burdens and endured its full measures of the distresses incident to
that sanguinary strife . The Southern element predominated in num
bers in the township , but there were many Union men staunch and
true. Each side was well represented in the armies that fought in
the field . Among the more notable incidents of the war in the town
ship was the
KILLING OF SIDNEY DENHAM .
Mr. Denham lived four miles east of Rocheport , on his farm . He

was a well- to -do citizen and owned a number of slaves . At the out
break of the war he went to Boonville as a member of the Missouri
State Guard , but returned home in a few days and took no further
active or open part in the strife . In the fall of 1864 he had collected
some guns and ammunition which he had hidden in a vacant house
on his premises, and which , it was charged , were intended for use by
the bushwhackers. Mr. Denham's negroes informed the Federals on
their master , and a squad was sent out from Columbia to arrest him .
Mr. Denham was arrested , his premises searched , the guns and
ammunition found , and then the party started away. A Mr. Boggs ,
who accompanied the Federals as a guide , and who now resides in
Terrapin Neck , states that Denham was well mounted , and not long
after the party had started , and while near Walnut Grove church , he
put spurs to his horse and tried to escape. The Federals gave chase
and fired on him and killed him . It was charged that the Federals
induced Mr. D. to try to escape in order that they might have an
excuse for shooting him . The body was buried in Walnut Grove
Cemetery. The Federals who did the shooting are believed to have
belonged to the 42d Mo. Infantry , a detachment of which regiment
was stationed at Columbia at the time commanded by Lt. Col.
Stauber .
ASSAULT BY DESPERADOES ON A DEPUTY SHERIFF . - ONE OF THE

ASSAILANTS KILLED .
About the last of November, 1866 , Addison Adams, John Q.

Adams, James' Adams and Francis Hornsinger , were in Rocheport
disturbing the peace and defying tbe authorities of the town ; •and
ineffectual attempts were made to arrest them by Deputy Coustable
Charles Myers and Recorder Samuel Scobee . These desperadoes,
among other things, rode up and down the streets with drawn pistols
and finally evacuated the town, firing at dogs and hogs as they left it.
They came east on the Columbia road , on their way , it is supposed , to
the house of one of the parties , John Q. Adams, who lived about four
miles from Rocheport .
When about two miles from town the Deputy Sheriff , Mr. James
C.Gillaspy, who had that day been to Rocheport on official business
no way connected with either of these parties , passed them on the
road . Having no business with either of them , he simply spoke to
them in passing, and when a few steps in advance was ordered by
James Adams to halt. Not halting, Adams galloped to his side with
a drawn pistol, repeating the order ; whereupon some words passed
between them , Mr. Gillaspy requesting Adams to desist and put up
his pistol as he knew no cause why he should be thus assailed on the
public highway. Instead of desisting, however, although Mr.
Gillaspy requested his comrades to interpose and take him away,
Adamsbecamemore furious , and with his pistol in close proximity to
Gillaspy attempted to kill him , but fortunately the pistol missed
' fire .
Immediately on this deadly assault being made Mr. Gillaspy very
properly fired upon his assailant, the ball making a flesh wound in
Adams' shoulder . The report of the pistol frightened the horses of
both Adams and Gillaspy, and both were thrown to the ground . In
falling Gillaspy's pistol was again fired , accidentally , and this was the
last charge in it. Finding himself thus surrounded and unarmed,
Gillaspy leaving his horse started for the house of Mr. Marion Coch
ran , not far off . About this time three citizens returning from
Columbia to their hoines in Rocheport , viz : J. H. Thornton , Dr. H.
R. C. Cowden and Michael O. Woods, came up ; and Mr. Thornton
being the constable of that township commanded the peace and ordered
them to surrender their arms, which they refused to do - James
Adams swearing vengeance against Gillaspy, and others of the party
against Thornton . Mr. Woods passed rapidly on to Cochran's house ,
whither Gillaspy had gone , to assist Gillaspy ; whereupon Gillaspy ,
obtaining a navy revolver , and Woods a rifle , started back to where
his horse had thrown him . Woods soon ascertained that the rifle was
unloaded ; Gillaspy, however , went on .
Seeing bịm coming , Addi
son Adamsand Hornsinger remarked to Jas. Adams, who by this time
had remounted his horse — There comes the damn son of a b - h ;
go and kill him .” James obeyed and rode in a gallop toward
Gillaspy, pistol in hand , and firing upon him as he approached .

Gillaspy heroically stood his ground and returned the fire, several shots
being exchanged . In the melee Adams' horse was killed and he mor
tally wounded — Gillaspy escaping unhurt. Adams died the next
morning.
Mr. Gillaspy returned to Columbia that evening and immediately
surrendered himself to Sheriff Baker ; and the Circuit Court being in
session the grand jury summoned witnesses and after a thorough
investigation of the case , fully acquitted Gillaspy and found indict
ments for assaults with intent to kill against Addison Adams and
Francis Hornsinger, and they were immediately arrested by Sheriff
Baker and lodged in jail. Neither of these four desperadoes, except
Jno. Q. Adams, resided in Boone county ; but had recently come
from Southwest Missouri.
RECENT NEGRO RIOT .
About the 1st. of August , 1882, the colored people living in the
southwestern part of the county , better known as “ Terrapin Neck ," had .
a picnic at Mr. Burch Hunt's springs not far from the river and some
eight miles southwest of Columbia . Whisky, it seems, as usual was
on hand and got in its devilish work . А negro named Sewood Coch
ran , noted for his desperate deeds, it is said , with his two brothers ,
George and Warren , came upon the grounds for the purpose of raising
a row and began by overturning the table. A general fight ensued in
which a negro named Joseph Jackson , one of the managers of the
picnic , shot Sewood through the thigh . Jackson received a danger
ous and probably fatal cut in the side, from , it is thought , Warren
Cochran . Sewood getting possession of the pistol with which Jackson
shot him , in aiming to return fire , shot Alex . Freeman , colored , a by
stander in the neck , inflicting a flesh wound . Constable Newland , of
Missouri township , was present and tried to preserve the peace , but
had to shoot Sewood, who resisted , the ball passing through his chin
and entering his neck and chest. Newland wheeled around and
arrested George Cochran and took him before Ugenus Boldin , J.
P., but there being no one to swear out a warrant he was released .
In the melee Warren Cochran was knocked senseless with a plank by
Jim White . The scene after the fight was over , looked like a battle
field , the wounded and bleeding negroes lying around in all directions
and making the air vocal with their groans .
COUNTRY CHURCHES OLD BETHEL , NOW WALNUT GROVE .
The first church organized within the present limits of Boone

couuty , was a Baptist church called Bethel located near the centre of
section 16 , township 49, range 14. This organization was formed
June 28 , 1817 , by five persons, whose names are here given . Fortu
nately the originalmanuscript of the church covenant is still in existence
and a transcript is herewith set out, printed as it was written , with a
few unimportant errors in orthography, ' grammar, and composition ,
not to be ridiculed , but to give record to a paper of great importance
and remarkable interest . For sixty
For sixty -five years
years has this paper been care
fully preserved , and, though yellow and bronzed by age, bids fair to
exist for a much longer period . Let its possessors take some means
to permanently preserve it. The records of the first church meeting
and the names of the original members are also given , as matters of
interest . The following is a literal transcript of the first church cov-'
enant of Old Bethel :
CHURCH COVANANT.
June the 28 A. D. 1817
We the Baptist Church called Bethel was constituted by Brethren William Tharp
and David McClain on the Scriptures of the old and new testaments, believing them to
be the infallable word of God and only rule of faith and practice, Believing that salva
tion is of God alone, also that Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God the Father three
persons in the Godhead , the Father the son and the holy ghost, these three are one
We believe in perticular and unconditional Election by grace and baptism by immer
tion , Belevers to be the only subjects and the final perseverance of the Saints.
[Signed]
ANDERSON WOODS BETSY WOODS DAVID MAQUITTY JOHN TURNER JAMES HARRIS
The first pastor of the congregation was the Rev. William Tharp ,
of whom it is to be regretted not much can be learned at this late day .
Fielding Wilhite was the pastor in 1829. The following is a transcript
of the first meeting , together with the membership list :
Saturday 1817
We the Baptist church of Christ met according to appointment and after prayer to
God for his blessing proceeded to business as folows —
1. Brother Edward Turner was chosen moderator
2. A door was opened for the reception of members.
3. Brother Joshua Barton was received by letter.
4. Brother Anderson Woods was chosen as our clerk..
5. On motion agreed to travel for a decon until our next meeting.
6. On motion agreed to commune two time a year in the the month of May and
October
| Five miies north by east of Rocheport, in the lower part of Perche township . Land
now owned by Mr. Huntington,
-
7. On motion agred to appoint Brethren David Mcquitty Joshua Barton and Ander
son Woods to form a church deciplin for the inspection of [ last line torn off.]
Persons names who were constituted calling them selves Bethel Church June the 28 A D
1817. David Mcquitty John Turner James Harris Anderson Woods Betsy Woods
Persons names who have joined since the constitution by letter; Joshua Barton by letter ;
Lasarus Wilcox by letter; John Reid and Patsey his wife by letter ; Polley Pipes by letter ;
Betsey Pipes by letter; Mourning Harris by experience ; Lucy Willcox by experience ;
Polley Harris by experience ; Mary Mcquitty by letter; William McCarty by letter; James
Hicks and Sarah his wife by letter; Jacob Sowder and Libby his wife by letter ; Elias
Elston and Jamima his wife by letter,
The first church building occupied by the old Bethel congregation

was built of logs, sometime in the year 1818 , and this was used until
the separation , in 1835 , after which it was worshipped in by the anti
missionary or Old School Baptists and the Presbyterians for-some time.
The pulpit , as stated , was supplied by Rev. Wm . Tharp , from the
first organization until the year 1820 , when the regular pastor , Rev.
Thos. Campbell, was installed . He resigned in 1829, and Fielding
Wilhite became his successor.
The first cemetery in Boone county was old Bethel burying ground,
located near where the church stood , in the southern border of Perche
township . The first interment therein was that of a man named
Payson , who was buried in 1818. The cemetery contains some 300
graves, but for a long time has not been used , and is now the centre
of a pasture .
The congregation worshiped in harmony until in 1835 , when occurred
the dissension in regard to foreign missions. The anti-missionary Bap
tists withdrew , and the remainder, to the number of about forty , formed
the Walnut Grove Baptist church . Among the constitutional mem
bers, as well as can now be remembered , were Fielding Wilbite ( after
wards pastor) , William Wilhite and wife , William Pullman and wife ,
Reuben Elliott and wife , Tyre Harris and wife , Elijah Dale and wife ,
Geo . W. McQuitty and wife , Zachariah Burnett and wife, Newman T.
Mitchell and wife , Isaac Doty and wife , and Henry Dooley .
In 1836 William Wilhite donated one acre of ground for the present
cemetery and church site (which has been increased to about three
acres ) , whereon a stand was erected and where the first services were
held , conducted by the pastor , Rev. Fielding Wilbite , and Revs. A. P.
Williams and Thos. Fristoe. The first meetings were protracted ,
sometimes for a period of two weeks. When the weather was inclem
ent the meetings were adjourned to and held in the Presbyterian church
at Rocheport .
In 1838 the congregation erected a brick church building, 20 by 50
63
feet in area , and ofmoderate height, plainly but substantially finished

and furnished . Here services were held until 1847, when the present
church was built. It is a frame, 40 hy 60 in area and 18 feet in height,
without spire or bell . Within the same inclosure and contiguous to
the church is the Walnut Grove cemetery . The first interments
therein were those of Mrs. Enoch Taylor , in 1836 , and Sampson Wil
bite , Sr., in 1837. Subsequentlymore than two hundred graves have
been added . As no records have ever been kept ,many of these graves
cannot now be identified . But known or unknown , recognized or un
recognized , the tenants of these silent abodes , the fathers and mothers ,
the brothers and sisters of the present generation of the communicants
of Walnut Grove sleep well. Whether the sun of summer shines
upon them , or the winds of winter blow over them , alike they silently
lie , awaiting the Great Day ; and year by year their descendants and
posterity are gathered to them to become in their turn waiters in the
silent chambers .
The first pastor of Walnut Grove was Rev. Fielding Wilhite , who
first began his labors in Old Bethel in 1829, and closed them in Walnut
Grove church in 1844 . His successors have been :
From 1849 to 1850-- Morton Mothershead . From 1861 to 1866 — Noah Flood .
From 1850 to 1857 - Noah Flood . From 1866 to 1871 — John Murphy.
From 1857 to 1858 Green Carey . From 1871 to 1872 – Noah Flood.
From 1858 to 1860 — Robt. N. Harris. From 1873 to 1881 - Jno. M. Robinson .
From 1881 to the present — W.Pope Yeaman.
The present officers are the following : Deacons — N. G. Mitchell,

Sr., J. H.Sampson , N.G.Mitchell, Jr., and Stephen Elliott . Clerk
J. H. Sampson . Treasurer -J. S. Denham . Present membership ,
not reported . The church and cemetery are located about the center
of section 29, township 49, range 14.
SUGAR CREEK ( BAPTIST ) CHURCH .
The Sugar Creek congregation of the Baptist church was organized

November 2 , 1823. The following is an abstract of the records con
taining the report of the constitutional meeting :
NOVEMBER THE SECOND (Saturday), 1823.
We, the Baptist Church of Christ at Sugar Creek,met at Brother John Berry's, accord
ing to appointment, and being constituted on 25 members by Elders Wm . Tharp and Thomas
Campbell , Brother Thos. Campbell chosen moderator, we proceed - 1. And agree to be
known by the name of Sugar Creek . 2. We agree to hold our church meetings on the sec
ond Saturday, and Sunday in each month . 3. A doorwas open for the reception of members.
Received by experience, Sisters Rachel Riddle, Elizabeth Huntsucker, Susannah Bledsoe ,
and Polly Hawkins.
By order of the church . LEVI H. JONES, Clerk pro tem .
The original members of the congregation were : Wm . Barnes ,Mark

Reavis, Wm . Jones , Sr., Wm . Jones , Jr., Willis Hawkins, Levi H.
Jones, John Stemmons , John Berry , John Jones, James Reavis, James
Flemming. Thos. Hart, Anthony Crosby, Benj. Dale, Gavin Bledsoe ,
John Huntsucker , Thos . Huntsucker , and Sisters Lucy Reavis , Eliza
beth Berry , Tabitha Crosby , Polly Flemming, Mildred Hawkins , Anna
Jones , Patsy Jones , and Vilette , a woman of color.
The first deacons were selected on the second Saturday in January ,
1824 , and were Levi H. Jones and Thomas Hart. They were ordained
the same day by Elders Thos. Campbell and Elijah Foley . The first
pastor called was Elder Campbell, but he refused to accept ; then Elder
Foley was called . Saith the record of October 2 ( Saturday ),
1824 :
* Reference from last meeting relating to this church calling a pastor was con
sidered . 2. This church was unanimous in calling Bro . Elijah Foley, and he accedes to their
wishes .
The first church building was of logs, and was put up on the farm
of John Henderson , in 1827. It was never completed , however , and
was only used during pleasant weather . It was afterwards taken down
and removed to the farm of James H. Lowrey , and again removed to
the farm of Sherman Harris and used until 1840. In this year a double
log building was put up , 24 by 40 feet in size , which was used until
the summer of 1882, when the present structure was erected . It is a
frame, 36 by 56 in area , and is well furnished . Its cost was about
$ 2,000 . It was dedicated June 18 , 1882, by Rev. W. Pope Yeamay .
It stands on the northeast quarter of section 22 , township 48, range 14 .
[ Information concerning the pastors , present membership , and other
matters connected with the history of this church , was promised , but
not furnished . ]
The Sugar Creek Cemetery was originally the private burying
ground of Owen W. Boggs , and the first burial was that of his ivfant
daughter , in 1830. The next, soon after , was that of a negro boy ,
belonging to Mr. Boggs. Subsequently , by consent of Mr. Boggs,
the ground was used by the public , and in 1882 it was deeded to the
trustees of the Sugar Creek Baptist church , in whose name the title
will hereafter rest . The church site was also donated by the heirs of
Mr. Boggs , for church purposes .
NEW PROVIDENCE CHURCH .
This church is of the Missionary Baptist denomination , and was

organized in 1838 , the original members being Joel Wilhite and wife ,
Thomas Allen and wife , Elijah Foley and wife, Fannie Foley , and
Arthur Barnett and wife. The first pastor was Fielding Wilbite , and
the first officers were Joel Wilhite and Andrew Barnett, deacons, and
Thomas Allen , clerk . The meeting at which the church was for
mally consecrated was held in a grove at McGee's spring, near where
the church now stands. Services were held at the grove and at the
houses of different members until 1845 , when they built a meeting
house of hewed logs , labor and material being donated by the mem
bers. It was forty - five feet long by thirty feet wide , and seated with
common wooden benches. This building answered as a place of
worship till 1878 , when it was torn down and the present edifice was
erected on its site. The new house is a frame, plain but neat , 52x38
feet in length and width , with a good stone foundation underneath .
It cost $ 1,450 , and is comfortably , though not expensively , furnished .
In front and over the entrance is a wooden awning, which not only
ornaments the building, but protects it from the weather . The mem
bership numbers 160 , and since its first organization in 1838 , there have
been 350 conversions. The following is a list of names of the young
men , formerly members of this church , who have become preachers :
George Oliver, Lewis Conner, Elliott Wilhite, Morton Modisett ,
James Smalley , D. B. Black , Edwin Walker , and William H. Nichols.
The present pastor is Rev. J. M.McGuire . George H. Hutchinson ,
Thomas H. Caruthers and Joshua Fenton are deacons, and James
Bradley , clerk , at the present writing . New Providence Cemetery
was set apart for burial purposes in 1845, and the first subject in
terred was Mrs. Eveline Barnes , wife of David Barnes - husband also
since deceased . It now contains over 100 graves, and is in the same
enclosure with the church .
LOCUST GROVE CHURCH .
This is another of the numerous Southern Methodist churches in
the county , the nucleus of which particular congregation were the

Hatton and Harriman families . The circuit called " Boone's Lick
Circuitº was organized as early as 1816 , and Joseph Piggott was the
first itinerant preacher (“ circuit rider ” ) . The Locust Grove church
at Midway was organized early in 1818 , but services had been pre
viously held . The first, or constitutional , members were Reuben
Hatton and wife , John Harriman , wife and several of the family , Reu
ben M. Hatton , Thomas Finley , Margaret Laughlin , William Doug
lass and wife , and — McMullin . Subsequent to the organization

the following were received as members : Alexander M. Ellington
and wife , Abram Funk , wife and two daughters, Mrs. Jane McGhee ,
Mrs. Anderson , and Miss Anderson ( afterwards wife of Rev. John
Bennett .) Services were held from the time of the organization up
to about 1824 at the residence of Reuben Hatton , and from that time
until 1830 at the house of William Douglass. In that year the Old
Brick Chapel was erected near the site of the present church at Mid
way . It was a small house , 36 by 26 feet in length and width , and a
12 -foot ceiling , plainly built, heated by old -fashioned “ fire- places,"
and seated with plain oaken seats without backs. The land (two
acres ) was donated by William Douglass and William Scott; one acre
each , for a church - yard and cemetery . This was in 1829 or '30 , and
the burying ground is also called Locust Grove cemetery . As nearly as
can be ascertained , the first subject buried there was Warren Leonard .
There are now about 400 graves , whose little hillocks dot the ground ,
but no record has ever been kept. The prime movers in building the
brick chapel were Rev. John Bennett , A. M. Ellington, Stephen G.
Evans, and Peter McLain . The old church was in time found to be.
too small to accommodate the increased and still growing congrega
tion . Accordingly , in 1870, it was torn down and the present edifice ,
a new and commodious frame structure , was built near the old site ,
the dimensions being 52x40x14 feet in length , breadth and height.
It is neatly and comfortably furnished , and was dedicated in 1871 by
Rev. John D. Vincil, then of Columbia . The pastor in charge was
David Root , and the inembership numbered about 80, and still con
tinues about the same. The old records are unfortunately lost , and
much of the information herein given had to be collected from private
and unofficial sources. The oldest preacher remembered was Rev.
Bankston, who served the congregation after the organization , though
he was not the first .
MOUNT NEBO CHURCH .
The history of this congregation of Southern Methodists was fur

nished the historian by Mr. Joseph Williamson . Rev. Moses U.
Payne, who was the leading spirit in the organization of this church ,
was its first pastor in about 1840 , he giving it the name it now bears.
The first chapel was a log building of the primitive pattern , built on
the land of Joseph Williamson , who now uses the house for a stable .
The original members were Mary Williamson , Joseph Williamson and
wife , Mrs. Burrilla Pettis, Wilson Dennis and wife, Cynthia Bledsoe ,
Bledsoe and wife, Margaret Melloway and

Lizzie Bledsoe , Joseph
Samuel Wood and wife. Mary Williamson (mother of Joseph Wil
liamson ), whose name heads the list, was the first Methodist in the
neighborhood of Mount Nebo. The establishment of the church at
the time was largely due to her zeal in the cause. Though she is
long since dead , and the old log structure in which she worshipped
has long ago been put to baser uses , and given way to a more becom
ing house of meeting , still her influence and the church's influence
for good still glide down the path of time and produce fruit in the
Master's vineyard . All honor to Mount Nebo for the good it has
done, and all hope and prayer for her future career .
Mount Nebo Cemetery contains about two acres, which, together
with the church site , were donated to the Baptist church for church
and burial purposes in 1860. by James W. Thomas. The first inter
ment was that of Alexander R. Williamson , in February , 1861. He
was a son of Joseph Williamson , and died at the age of seventeen .
THE TOWN OF ROCHEPORT.
EARLY HISTORY .
The land comprising the present site of the town of Rocheport was
patented by the United States to David Gray , November 13 , 1822 .
Gray sold it to Wm . Kincheloe ; he sold to John Gray. March 2 ,
1825 , John Gray ( and Sally , his wife, ) sold to Abraham Barnes, John
Ward and Lemon Parker, who, with Wm . Gaw , composed the first
town company, and were the projectors of the town itself. Rocheport
was laid out December 15 , 1832 , by Parker , Barnes , Ward and Gaw .
The latter sold to Parker a portion of the town site . Wm . Shields
was the surveyor . Subsequent additions were surveyed by James H.
Bennett. In the various transfers of the land on which the town
stands it ( the land ) is uniformly described as “ a part of section 1 ,
>
township 48, range 15.”
As early as 1820 there was a warehouse on the present town site ,
called " Arnold's warehouse ,” which was managed by Robert Hood ,
and was an establishment of some note . The locality was also widely
known as “ the mouth of the Moniteau ,'' and was a favorite landing
place for the settlers of eastern Howard and western Boone. The
Moniteau creek (or “ creek of the Great Spirit ” ) was famed for the
fish in its waters and the game along its banks. John Gray settled in
the neighborhood in 1819 and established a ferry across the river ,

which he operated for some years prior to the laying out of the towu .
Many flat-boats and keel-boats were built and loaded at “ the mouth
of the Moniteau ” in an early day.
In June , 1804 , the Lewis and Clark expedition landed at the mouth
of the Moniteau and explored the country along the river and for some
distance inlaud . The " . painted rocks were particularly noted and
mentioned in the published journal of the expedition ,' as being “ very
remarkable . They are covered with strange and uncouth hieroglyph
ics and representations. We were prevented from making
à careful inspection by reason of the presence of so many ferocious
rattlesnakes, which are very venomous at this season of the year , and /
which were crawling among the rocks in great numbers.”
The name of the place was first intended to be Rockport , but it was
changed to Rocheport, at the instance, it is said , of a French mission
arý who was in the neighborhood . The name signifies a rocky port,
or port of rocks, and the town ought always to have been known by
the name first given it .
The first merchant in Rocheport was one Barlow , who established
himself in 1830 in a log store -house on Moniteau street , north of
where the Star mills are now located , and occupied the groundswhereon
stands Wm . Hulett's residence . As before stated , the locality was
a sort of shipping port. Boats were built, loaded and set sail for New
Orleans and the other lower Mississippi markets from this point, and
the boatmen landed here on their return . Barlow did a fair business
for the time and under the circumstances . Other venturesome mer
chants , attracted by his success , located here from time to time, and
soon quite a number of houses , chiefly built of logs ,were standing in
the place . Cary Peebles , Lark . Bennett and others came next after
Barlow , and all did business in log houses . The first merchants kept
only staple articles, such as were needed by the people at that day -
cotton goods, sugar, coffee and whisky, the latter article being as
much of a necessity in early days as either of the former .
The first hotel or tavern was the log house , also used as a store
building , kept by Barlow . This house was built by John Gray , per
haps in 1819. It was not kept as a regular hotel, with bar -room ,
See Lewis and Clark's Expedition, Vols. I. and II., pp . 11-13 and p . 432. Philadel
phia: Bradford & Inskeep, 1814 .
? Another account says Barlow's store first stood at the foot of Main street, on ground
since washed away by the river .
office , etc., but was merely a combination of store-room , dwelling

house and tavern . The first regular tavern or hotel was built and
kept by Jesse B. Dale in 1833 , and stood on Moniteau street.
The post-office at Rocheport was established in 1832. It was the
successor to Lexington , upon Thrall's prairie, and to Booneton , kept
by Wm . Lientz. Lexington was removed to Booneton in 1828 , and
Booneton was removed to Rocheport in 1832. The first postmaster
in Rocheport was Cary Peebles.
Probably the first steamboat to land on the present site of Roche
port was the R. M. Johnson , of Major Long's expedition , which came
up the river in 1819 , and landed at the mouth of the Moniteau for
wood . In 1821 a steamer owned by James Johnson , a brother of
vice-President Johnson , for whom the first boat to land was named ,
tied up at Arnold's warehouse, and it is said took on some freight .
Between 1820 and 1825 a boat made regular trips between Old Frank
lin and St. Loạis , stopping at all the principal landings , Arnold's
warehouse among the number . All these landings were made before
the town was laid out.
In the early days of Rocheport society was not the best regulated .
Whisky was used as a common beverage throughout the country . If
one neighbor visited another he expected to be “ treated ," of course ,
and if he was not, and no apology or excuse was given , the visitor
considered that he had received a personal affront. Fights and fisti
cuffs were common in Rocheport. No other weapons than Nature's
were used , however , as a rule , and after the fight a speedy and lasting
reconciliation was effected . The bottle was passed , everybody drank
and all was soon forgotten . Much of the whisky drank in early days
was made at the stills in the neighborhood , was untaxed by govern
ment , unstamped by inspector , and uninspected by gauger , and, the
word of an old settler for it, would make a man fight his grandfather .
People exchanged their corn and rye for the juice thereof .
At first coffee was fifty cents a pound at Barlow's store . It was
seldom used by the people except on Sunday morning . Tea' was

rarely used at all. Most people used maple sugar for “ sweetening,'
made by themselves, and fit food for the gods. Sassafras tea was a
common table drink ; while the children drank good , rich , nourishing
cow's milk .
For a few years after the town was laid out it grew rather rapidly ,
and in 1835 it was a place of considerable size and importance , rival
ing Columbia . Rocheport contained eight stores , two tailor shops ,
two carding machines , a steam saw mill, five brickyards, two tan
yards, two rope walks , two blacksmith shops, a tavern , and a tobacco
manufactory . The next year, or in 1836 , thirty new buildings were
erected .
In the exciting presidential contest of 1840 the Whigs held a mon

ster mass meeting at Rocheport . The meeting was on a hill.east of
the town in a dense grove of sugar trees, where three speakers’ stands
were erected , and where for three days and nights the friends of " Tip
pecanoe and Tyler too ” held high carnival. During the meeting
speeches were made by Chilton Allen , of Kentucky, Fletcher Webster ,
son of Daniel Webster , Gen. A. W. Doniphan , James H. Birch , Abiel .
Leonard , James S. Rollins, Col. John O'Fallon , James Winston ,
George C. Bingham and others.
In the year 1847 Rocheport had five dry goods stores and several
saddler , tailor and blacksmith shops, together with a large number of
mechanics and persons in other branches of industry, and had a popu
lation of 450. The next year, 1848, the census showed the popula
tion to be 476. In 1849 the number of inhabitants had increased to .
nearly 600. Some of the business men of the place in 1849 were A.
L. Robinson , T. H. Ready, John W.Harris , Moses U. Payne , George
Knox , Jas. H. Parker, Thomas Walker , Ballentine and Out
calt. In the year 1850 Mr. H. S. Chalmers bad a flourishing school
in the place . During the year 1849, about fifty steamboats were
making regular trips up the Missouri as high as Rocheport , and fifty
seven boats made 500 landings in that year , and a great deal of busi
ness was transacted at this point . Many tons of hemp , corn , wheat ,
tobacco and other produce were shipped weekly , and large quantities
of merchandise were put off, some for towns in Boone and Howard
counties , hut the most for localities far north in the interior.
CHOLERA IN ROCHEPORT .
In 1833 , Asiatic cholera first visited Rocheport and carried off a

prominent citizen , Mr. Parker by name.
In 1849 cholera again visited Rocheport. Several cases occurred .
Alexander Graver," the driver of the stage from Rocheport to Colum
bia , came near being buried alive. He was attacked with cholera and
to all appearances died . His coffin had been prepared and full prep
1 The name is also remembered as O'Connell, who afterwards married a Miss

January
arations made for his burial, when a Dr. Buster discovered signs of
life , and by dint of fresh blisters, vigorous rubbing , etc., restored the
alleged “ corpse " to full animation .
In July , 1852 , the scourge again visited the place and there were
many deaths. Among them were Miss Jane Morrison, Mary Litch
lyter, Mrs. Shanks, Thos . A. Taylor , John Harris , John A. Hadwin ,
two of Taylor's negroes, a negro belonging to Taylor & Jackman , and
some children . Through fear and in consequence of the intense ex
citement, the dead and dying were frequently abandoned by their
nearest relatives and friends. As is reported , in twenty -one days,
during the prevalence of the dread contagion , Henry Tumy, R. G.
Lyell, and four or five others buried twenty -three victims of cholera
and of the measles, which latter disease was also in the place at the
same time.
From 1850 to 1860 the town did a good business and flourished
very fairly . It had become known far and near for years and at
tracted to it many individuals. The building of the North Missouri
railroad affected the prosperity of the place no little. Goods began
to be shipped into the county by rail instead of by river, and the
commercial interests of the town sustained material injury thereby .
The iron horse has always been the mortal enemy of the steamboat ,
and in most cases the victor in every contest . The river towns
have suffered of late years and the railroad towns have flourished .
DURING THE CIVIL WAR .
The population of Rocheport at the beginning of the civil war was

largely in sympathy with the Southern or Confederate cause , and so
far as can be known did not change its sentiments . It furnished a
considerable number of men for the Confederate army and some for
the Federal service . Of the latter , Robt . G. Lyell was adjutant of
the 61st Enrolled Missouri Militia , and Major on the staff of Gen. J.
B. Douglass .
The first Federal troops in Rocheport were a portion ofGen. Lyon's
command , who landed , when on their way to Boonville , the day be
fore the battle at that place , June 17 , 1861.
The Federals occupied the town from time to time with a garrison .
In 1863–4 , the bushwhackers made frequent visits to the place . Bill
Anderson's guerillas came so often that that they called Rocheport
" our capital.” The people were between hawk and buzzard . The
Federals plundered them and the bushwhackers robbed them . On
one occasion , Anderson's men had barely left the town when the
Federals entered .
Early in October, 1864, when Lt. Col. Matthews of the 3d Cavalry ,
M. S. M., was in command at Rocheport, Maj. Leonard's command ,
of the 9th M. S. M., entered the town. A boat loaded with Fisk's
men was also lying at the wharf. A fire broke out on Main Street and
destroyed one of the principal blocks and a part of another. As soon
as the fire was discovered Col. Matthews ordered out a strong pro
vost guard and sent every other soldier to his quarters , and then en
deavored to check the flames. There was no pillaging and all disorder
was repressed , and Col. Matthews won golden opinions from the peo
ple for his exemplary conduct. The fire was probably set out by
some of the Federal soldiers , but just by whom cannot be learned .
Not long afterwards some of the bushwhackers came into town and
set fire to the fine public school building, and it was burned to the
ground . The building was valued at $ 6,000 or $ 7,000 , and was a fine
structure . One statement is to the effect that but one man was con
cerned in the burning of the school-house , a member of Anderson's
company, who crossed the river and applied the torch one night.
BUSHWHACKER RAIDS .
The first " bushwhacker raid as it was called , of any note, was
made about the first of October , 1863, when twenty -five or thirty
bushwhackers ,the leading characters among whom it is said were
Pulliam , John Brown, Russ. Palmer , and — Turner , came into town
and shook it up considerably . Several stores were robbed . Messrs.
Clayton & Wilcox, Harris & Hubbard , A. & M. Barth , and H.
Tumy were the principal losers. .
In the spring or early summer of 1864 , Anderson's guerillas made
their appearance in Rocheport, and until late in the following fall con
tinued to visit the town quite frequently . Indeed they soon estab
lished friendly , if not confidential, relations with many of the citizens,
and were on fair terms with nearly everybody. They took a great
deal of property in one way or another from the people, and caused
some of them to pay $ 3,500, but so long as nobody was killed , the
citizens considered that they had escaped very well.
THE BUFFINGTON AFFAIR .
On Tuesday night , August 30 , 1864 , the steamer Buffington , a boat

employed in transporting supplies to the State Penitentiary , and com
manded by Capt . Thos. Waterman , came up to Rocheport and landing

just above town was captured by Bill Anderson and his band of bush
whackers . Capt . Waterman was killed and an employe of the boat
badly wounded . By orders of Anderson the boat steamed up and
crossed over to the Cooper county side, when the guerillas landed ,
went into the interior and robbed many of the farmers of money ,
provisions and horses. When they returned they compelled the boat
to recross them to the north bank of the river , and then retired into
the Howard county timber .
The citizens of Rocheport were wholly irresponsible for the capture
of the boat and the killing of Capt . Waterman, but from representa
tions made to Gen. Rosecrans, then in command of this department,
that officer could not see it in that light, and issued the following
order :
SPECIAL ORDER NO . 159.
St. Louis , Mo., September 1, 1864.

The general commanding, satisfied that the citizens of the town of Rocheport, Boone
county , Missouri, have countenanced, tolerated, and fed , if not encouraged, gangs of bush
whackers and other outlaws for the last six weeks, and being apprised that a gang of these
villains, in open daylight, shot and murdered Thomas Waterman , the only support of a
widowed mother and two sisters, on the steamer Buffington , at the landing of said town,
orders that the sum of ten thousand dollars be collected from the disloyal citizens of Roche
port, and paid to the chief quartermaster of the department for the use of the widow and
sisters of said Waterman . The district commander is charged with the execution of this or
der. By command of MAJOR GENERAL ROSECRANS .
0. D.Greene, Asst. Adj. Gen. and Chief of Staff.
It was a hard tax, this $ 10,000 , upon the “ disloyal ” citizens of

Rocheport at this time, but the amount was afterwards reduced one
half by Gen. Rosecrans, and the remaining $5,000 assessed to the dis
loyal citizens of Moniteau township , Howard county . Only about
$ 3,500 was ever collected , the remainder being remitted by the com
mander-in -chief upon representations of the loyalty of those assessed .
If culpability in the affair had been the test of the assessment , and the
proportion of guilt the measure of each citizen ,s share , perhaps not
fifteen cents would have been demanded from the people of the town
ship . They were no more responsible for the firing on the steamer
than the people of any other part of the county or State . But war
sometimes places its burdens very unequally .
A guerrilla named Tuck Hill, of Johnson county , is said to have
been the one that killed Capt . Waterman , at least he robbed the
body .
ATTACK ON THE STEAMER 66 YELLOWSTONE . '
On Monday, September 5 , 1864 , the steamer Yellowstone was fired

into at Rocheport , while passing down , by Anderson's band . The guer
rillas followed the boat some distance down the river , keeping up an
ineffectual fire on it , with their revolvers . At last the Yellowstone
stopped in the channel, and appearances indicated that she had sur
rendered . Two of Anderson's men , Harvey Rucker and Jim Ander
sun , were sent to the boat to bring it into shore . A citizen , James
Lewis, was pressed in to row the skiff. As the party reached the boat
Rucker attempted to climb aboard when someof the crew fired on him ,
striking bim in the arm and thigh . He fell back into the skiff , which
was hastily rowed ashore , and the boat went on to Jefferson City .
Anderson was greatly enraged at the failure to capture the boat, and
the wounding of one of his best men . Rucker's arm was so badly
shattered that it had to be amputated .
After Rucker had been brought ashore , a young lad named James
W. Lyons, now a merchant in Columbia , who had been pressed into
the service of the guerrillas as a guide, by Jim Carter and some other
bushwhackers, attempted to return to his home in Missouri township .
It is proper to let Mr. Lyons himself tell the story of what followed .
He says :
I had permission from Carter, on arriving at Rocheport, to return home, but was not al
lowed to pass outside of the picket lines, and had made up my mind to remain in town until
Anderson should leave. As I was passing Smith's Hotel, near the river, one of his men (who
was a personal enemy ofmine) standing near, told Anderson that I was going home, and
also represented that I was deserting them . Anderson then asked me where I was going .
I told him I was going home, and attempted to explain why, informing him that I had not
joined his command or signified any such intention, and could substantiate the fact by Capt.
James Carter. Whereupon, without any provocation whatever, he seized å chair that was
near by and struck at me. I caught the chair and held it. He then drew his revolver and
struck at me, which blow I managed also to ward off . Just at this junction Uncle Benj.
Mead, who knew me, and knew the circumstances under which I was at Rocheport, seized
Anderson and told me to run , but I was told by one of Anderson'smen (whom I never saw
before or since) that if I ran he would killme. At this moment Capt. Emery came to my
rescue, and caught the party who ordered me to remain , and Emery also told me to run. I
ran through thehall of the hotel into the back yard, and, having lost myhat in the encoun
ter, ran through Henry Smith's house, snatched up an old hat of bis, and made directly for
the river bank, wbich I knew would conceal me from any one in town, and in this way
made my escape .
SINCE THE WAR .
The close of the civil war found Rocheport scarred and blackened ,
and considerably prostrated in every . It “ picked up ” slowly for a
considerable length of time, but gradually became quiescent, in which
condition it has remained for some years. It is still, and bids fair
long to be, the chief river town in the county , and during the warm
months heavier shipments of grain and stock are made from here on
steamboats than from all other ports in the county . The town is con
nected by telegraph with the outward world , and a stage runs daily
to Columbia . The population in 1870 was 823 ; in 1880 it was 728 .
The present population is estimated at about seven hundred , of which
about two hundred and fifty are colored .
Until quite recently Rocheport has been an extensive shipping point
for leaf tobacco . In 1870 Col. R. A Caskil established himself in the
tobacco trade , and for some years shipped annually from two hundred
to one thousand hogsheads of leaf tobacco to Liverpool and Bristol,
England, and to Glasgow , Scotland. The shipments were increased
or diminished as the crops were large or moderate . Mr. Caskil has a
factory capable of handling 1,500,000 pounds of tobacco annually .
THE RIOT OF APRIL 1 , 1882.
On the evening of the 1st of April, 1882, Jim Mitchell , a drunken

negro , assaulted Mr. Marion Wyatt, of near Rocheport , and was
promptly knocked down . “ Gen." Wilhite , another negro with a
notoriously bad reputation , together with some other colored loafers,
came to Mitchell's assistance and attacked Mr. Wyatt, who drew his
revolver, and , without firing, drove his assailants across the street .
The negroes , to the number of about twenty -five of the most aban
doned class, gathered near the post-office and acted in a very turbu
lent and threatening manner . The marshal, Thos . J. White , calling
to his aid some other white men , notified them to disperse or they
would be arrested and imprisoned . All left but two or three , among
whom was Bill Barber , who , more daring ( or drunker ), remained .
When again warned to disperse, Barber attempted to strike the mar
shal with a stone . The latter drew his pistol and fired at the negro,
but in the darkness missed . All of the negroes now left .
Quite a crowd of white citizens gathered in front of Chambers Bros.
& Co.'s store, and, believing that the negroes had been effectually
quieted , and wholly unsuspicious of any danger , were quietly dis
cussing the episode that had passed . The front of the store was of
glass , and the interior of the building, being brilliantly lighted , the
sidewalk was as bright and light as day . Suddenly , from a dark
alley on the opposite side of the street , came a volley from pistols
and shotguns, and several citizens were severely and one seriously
-
wounded . The windows of the store were riddled with shot , and it
was remarkable that no one was killed and that no more were
wounded . As soon as possible the whites procured arms, and , organ
izing, fired at the place where they supposed the negroes to be , but ,
owing to the darkness and the fact that most of the rioters had dis
persed , none of them were hit .
Excitement ran very high during the remainder of the night. The
negroes were drunk and were yelling about their haunts , and the
whites expected the attack to be renewed every minute . A strong
force of whites was kept under arms throughout the night. It
chanced that Dr. Jackinan was the only surgeon in town at the time,
and he was kept busy the rest of the night attending to the wounded
Indeed , it was some time after daylight before all the wounds were
examined and dressed . In all of its history , including the period of
the civil war , Rocheport had never passed such a night of terror.
On Sunday morning early the authorities began to move. Marshal
Evans and Constable Barton arrested “ Gen." Wilhite , Bill Barber ,
Jack Booth , Ed. Washington, Benton McClure , Jim Bellons , Russ.
Foster , Jim Beatty and Wm . Watts , on a warrant charging them
with assault with intent to kill. The next morning the prosecuting
attorney changed the charge to assault and battery . The prisoners
were tried before Justice Scobee, convicted , and all but Foster , Beatty
and Watts were fined and imprisoned in the county jail. Afterward
the imprisoned , together with Alex . Gaw and Tom Steele , were in
dicted at the April term of court, 1882, tried in a few days thereafter ,
and, with the exceptions of Mitchell and Washington , all were con
victed of assault with intent to kill, and sentenced to terms in the
penitentiary of from two to seven years .
TOWN GOVERNMENT.
Mayor , Thos. Chapman ; clerk , Wesley Scobee ; treasurer , W.E.

T. Waddell ; marshal, David Barton ; assessor, A. G. Norris ; council ,
Henry Williams, John S. Clayton , W. E. Waddell, Wesley Scobee ,
Thos . Chapman .
PUBLIC SCHOOLS.
The number of school children within the corporation is about 260 ,

and of these 120 are colored . The white -school building is a brick ,
40x60 feet in area , and three stories high .
The upper story is occu
pied by the Masonic and Odd Fellows' lodges. The school is graded
and divided into three departments . About nine months of school
per year is the present average. No building is owned by the district

that is occupied as a colored school. One is rented whenever the
occasion demands.
CEMETERY .
The Rocheport cemetery originally contained but one acre, but it

was afterward extended to twice that area . It is beautifully located
on a hill overlooking the town. The ground is nicely fenced and well
kept, and therein , sleeping their last sleep , lie many of the pioneer
citizens of the neighborhood , the founders of Rocheport, and the
builders up of the country round about.
CHURCHES - M. E. CHURCH ( SOUTH ) .
This congregation of worshippers was organized in 1835 with about

fifteen or twenty members, all of whom have passed arvay with the
ravages of relentless time, or moved far in the distance to make their
homes elsewhere . There are no records of sufficient age to give a
history of the church , and very little definite information can be ob
tained . The church building, a large brick with spire and bell, was
erected in 1844. It still stands and answers the church as a place
of worship . Rev. William Rush is the “ circuit rider, " and holds
services there one Sabbath in each month . The membership numbers
thirty - five.
CHRISTIAN CHURCH .
The church of Christ at Rocheport was organized in 1837 with

about twenty members , the only one of whom now living is Mrs.
Anna Wheeler , wife of Henderson Wheeler , who still resides in the
The following were among the constitutional or first members :
Thomas Hart, wife and daughter ; John B. Hill and wife ; Porter
Jackman and wife ; Dr. Buster ; Mrs. Adams and Mrs. Amanda
Wheeler . The first pastor was Thomas B. Allen . They built a brick
house of worship in 1845 , with spire and bell, the dimensions of the
building being 35x50 feet, with a fifteen foot ceiling. The edifice
still stands and is in good repair. They have a membership of 113,
and a flourishing Sabbath school, with about fifty children attending .
At this writing , Mr. E. C. Gill is pastor in charge , and resides in
Rocheport. Dr. W. A. Jackman , J. W. Morris and J. W.Champion
are elders ; and J. A. Chambers , J. H. Chambers, C. M. Patterson
and J. M. Hern are deacons. The other officials are T. M. Nichol
: son , clerk ; R. W. Hubbard , Sabbath school superintendent, and C.
M. Patterson , Sabbath school clerk . As full a history cannot be given
as this church merits , owing to the fact that some of the records
have been lost or destroyed .
THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Was organized June 3 , 1839 , under the pastorate ofRev. R. L. Mc

Afee . The original members were Rollin Lyman , Temple E. Bell
and Mary Bell ( his wife ), Miss Mary Lientz, Mrs. Reuben Parker,
Mrs. Mary Gaw , Mrs. Mary Leintz , and Mrs. Ellen Knox . They
built a church in 1845 , which was burnt during the war , February 20 ,
1865. They have never re-built, neither had any regular pastor.
BAPTIST CHURCH .
The Baptist Church of Christ was organized at Rocheport in July ,

1851. The original record of that date reads as follows : “ A meet
ing was held in the Presbyterian meeting house in the town of Roche
port to take into consideration the propriety of organizing a Baptist
church . After sermon by T. C. Harris , Rev. F. Wilhite was called
to the chair , and Bro . A. J. Barnes was elected clerk pro. tem . A
committee previously appointed consisting of Ira E. Barnes and John
F. Calvert to ascertain and report the names of persons desirous to
go into such organization , presented the following names, viz .: C.N.
Worthington , Ira E. Barnes, John F. Calvert and lady, Martin Cal
vert and lady, Tom Cooper, lady and daughter , Silas Tipton , Mrs.
Wilson , Mrs. Lyell, Mrs. Cornelius, Mrs. Lewis, Mrs. Gentry ,Mrs.
Pharris, Sidney Elliott, E. McClelland and lady and John L. Lewis.
On motion of Bro . Ira E. Barnes it was unanimously agreed to go
into the organization of a church to be called the United Baptist Church
of Jesus Christ in Rocheport.” After adopting a “ declaration of
faith and church covenant,” they “ on motion , adjourned to meet on
the 3d Saturday in August , 1851. "
The records show the election of pastors as follows : Rev. Robert
Harris , 1853 ; J. M. Robinson , 1855 ; X. X. Buckner , 1856 ; T. M.
Johnson , 1858 ; R. H. Harris, 1860 ; Noah Flood, 1863 ; J. D.
Murphy, 1866 ; William Tipton , 1872 ; E. D. Isbell, 1876 ; M. L.
Laws, 1877 ; N. T. Allison , 1878 ; J. S. Parmer, 1879 ; J. B. Stark ,
1882. From the time of its organization till 1861, they held church
services in the Presbyterian church ; in that year they built a church ,
which was dedicated to God's service by Rev R. H. Harris, in June,
1861. The present pastor is Rev. J. B. Stark , who preaches once a
64
1010 HISTORY OF BOONE COUNTY ,
month . The congregation now numbers a membership of fifteen

souls.
CIVIC SOCIETIES . - MASONIC LODGE .
The Rocheport lodge, No. 67 , of A. F. and A.M., is, perhaps, the

most venerable secret institution in the town , and was organized as
long ago as October 20 , 1843. The only names remembered of char
ter members are George Knox , William Reid , and William E. Harris,
who , after organization of the lodge , were chosen its first worthy Mas
ter , senior warden and junior warden , respectively . The reason so
little of the early history of the lodge is accessible , is the fact that
their hall was destroyed by fire in 1865 , and all of their
records, books and papers lost . For that reason , much that
would be both valuable and interesting will necessarily have
to be omitted . The present offic
officers
ers are : W. Scobee , W.
;
M .; J. M. McKee, S. W .; J. H. Lowrey , J. W .; H. Tumey , Treas.;

Chas . Myer , Sec.; J. W. Bell, S. D. ; C. M. Patterson , J. D .; H.
F. Williams, Tyler. None of these are grand lodge officers. The
hall they now own was built in 1868, and is a good brick structure
erected at a cost of $ 2,400 . The membership is in number 38 , and
the lodge is in a thriving and harmonious condition .
ODD FELLOWS .
The Boone lodge, No. 121 , I. O. O. F , was instituted by John

McFarland, and their charter was received in 1858. The charter
members were Ferry. Rockwell, James Bradley , Thomas H. Bowen ,
Moses Barth , Solomon Sticknell. The first officers were James Brad
ley , noble grand ; Thomas H. Bowen , vice grand ; J. S. Clayton ,
secretary ; Moses Barth , treasurer ; T. Waddell, O. and I. guard .
The present officers are Charles Myer . N. G .; Fielding Tin
dall, V. G .; A. G. Norris , Sec .; John Dodson , Treas . ; J. S. Clay
ton , W .; M. D. Lewis, conductor , and James O’Howell, guard .
There are no grand lodge officers of this lodge . The present mem
bership is thirty -three . They built a brick hall in 1868 , which cost
$ 2,000 . The lodge is reported in a prosperous condition .
GOOD TEMPLARS .
Rocheport Lodge , No. 147, I. O. G. T., was organized July 28th ,

1870 , the first officers being : — Chas. Myer , W., C . T.; M. E. Root ,
W.V.T.; H. C. Mooth , Sec. ; D.H.Root, P.W. C. T. The char
-
ter -members were Rev. D. H. Root, Sarah Tumy, Jennie Root , Mary
Root, Chas. Myer , H. C. Mooth, H. Tumy, Mollie Burkhardt, Mary
Jones, William Hill, Robert Boyze , John Scobee , J. L. Root , Ann
Root , Ora Root, and Sallie Wheeler . The present officers are J. W.
Champion , W. C. T.; Clara Dodson , W. V. T .; Geo . Hill, R. S .;
H. A. Henley , F. S .; H. A. Roberts, M .; Mrs. Henley, I. G .; H.
C. Mooth , O. G .; J. R. Robinson , S. D. Number of members, 40 .
UNITED WORKMEN .
Rocheport Lodge, No. 81, of the A. O. U. W., was instituted by

John A. Brooks, both charter and dispensation bearing date of Octo
ber 9th , 1878. The names of charter members are : R. W.Hubbard ,
John E. Miller, (). J. Miller, T. M. Nicholson , Charles Myer , Henry
Hall, Sylvester Calvert , U. Baldwin , S. P. Scobee, W. E. Mabry ,
and Robert White . The first officers were - Robert White , P. M. W .;
0.J. Miller , M. W .; R. W. Hubbard , G. F.; T. M. Nicholson , O .;
Chas . Myer, Recorder ; Henry Hall, Financier , J. E. Miller, Re
ceiver ; S. P. Scobee , Guide ; U. Baldwin , I. W .; J. S. Palmer ,
O. W. The names of the present officers are : John Scobee , M. W .;
James O'Howell, P. M. W .; W. F. Potts , Recorder ; A. G. Norris ,
Financier ; R. W. Hubbard , Receiver ; James Bradley , I. W .; F. M.
Nicholson, O. W .; Wesley Scobee, Guide ; Peter Fine, G. F. They
have a membership of forty , but as yet own no lodge building , hold
ing their meetings in a rented hall.
BUSINESS INTERESTS OF ROCHEPORT .
Newspapers . The first paper published in Rocheport was the

Times, by Isaac N. Houck in 1868 and 1869. In 1872 F. B. Bysfield
established the Enterprise, which was discontinued in 1873. The
Rocheport Commercial was started in 1879. It is still published , and
does excellent work for the town. J. W. McQuitty is the present
editor and proprietor .
Bank . — The Rocheport Bank has a cash capital of $ 10,000, and
its deposits amount to about $ 100,000 annually . Present officers :
L. Grossman , president ; F. E. Carr, cashier ; L. Grossman , David
Pipes , W. B. Hunt, T. H. Winterbower, F. E. Carr , directors .
Mills . — The Boone County Star grist mills grind about 150,000
bushels annually . They have four run of burrs.
barrels of first- class flour are annually shipped to St. Louis. The
mills are owned by a company, of which W. T. Anderson is president ;
1012 HISTORY OF BOUNE COUNTY .
David Pipes , vice president ; J. S. Clayton , secretary and superin

tendent, and F. E. Carr , treasurer .
The Moniteau saw and grist mills, J. W. Champion , proprietor ,
were established in 1875 . They have three run of burrs, do a large
local trade and custom work , grinding severa thousand bushels an

nually . The saw -mill has a capacity for sawing 2,500 feet of lum
ber daily .
Miscellaneous. — The oldest business man in the place is Henry
Tumy, dealer in saddles and harness , who began business in 1842.
Then comes W. E. T. Waddell, hardware dealer and tinner ; estab
tablished in 1853. The oldest mechanic is Henderson Wheeler, a
blacksmith , who has struck while the iron was hot since 1838 .
Hubbard , Prince & Co. and J. A. Barth ship annually thousands
upon thousands of bushels of wheat and other grain .
The Rocheport pottery was originally established by John Cranson ,
in 1844. W. H. Williamson & Son , the present proprietors, took
charge in 1860. The establishment turns out 50,000 gallons of an
excellent quality of stoneware every year .
The physicians are Dr. William J. Jackman ( 1873 ) , Bramlitt &
Lewis ( 1882 ) and E. H. Chino ( 1882 ) . Dr. T. M. Nicholson , den
tist , has been established since 1871 .
BIOGRAPHIES .
JAMES DABNY ARNETT .
James D. Arnett was born in Louisa county , Virginia , near Louisa

court-house, May 8th , 1830 , where he was raised on the farm , continu
ing in that business until he came to Missouri in 1857. He lived
with his uncle, T. R. Daniel, near Midway , and farmed his place on
the shares until his death in 1869 and continued to manage the farm
for his aunt until her death in 1879 , when he purchased the place of
their administrators . At this writing Mr. Arnett , is unmarried . In
1864 he was drafted by the Federal authorities but was detailed as a
carpenter and served as such until the close of the war. He is a
member of the Locust Grove , Methodist church , and steward and
Sunday school superintendent . He has been a member of the church
since 1850 .
WILLIAM F. ANGELL .
William F. Angell was born on the old Reuben Elliott homestead ,

October 18th 1846. He is the son of Joseph and Margaret ( Elliott)

Angell . His father having died when he was an infant, his mother
remained with her father , the late Reuben Elliott. He was brought
up on the farm and educated at the Rocheport and Walnut Grove
academies . He began business for himself when eighteen , cultivating
rented land. In 1871 he purchased his grandfather's farm the old
Elliott homestead -- where he has remained ever since . He was mar
ried , December 14 , 1871 , to Miss Luella , daughter of Willis G.
Evans, of Boone county . They have two children , William E. and
McClelland. Mr. Angell is a member of the Walnut Grove Baptist
church .
MOSES BARTH .
The subject of this sketch , one of the leading commercial men of
the county , is a foreign born gentleman , a native of Illingen , Ger
many , born October 24th , 1824. Though Prussian born , he is of
pure Hebrew extraction , and is the son of Michael and Sarah Barth .
He was reared and educated in his native city and learned the business
of cattle dealer and money exchanger, which was his vocation , and
continued in the business with his father till he came to America in
1847. Arriving at New York , June 15th , of that year , he proceeded
to Philadelphia and supplied himself with a stock of goods which he
“ peddled ” out to advantage in Berks and Lancaster counties, Penn
sylvania . He then came to Missouri and was similarly engaged in
Boone and Howard counties , making his headquarters at Fayette .
He then became associated with his brother in the dry goods business,
and they operated as both local and itinerantmerchants till 1850. In
that year , without severing his connection with his brother , Moses
made a trip over the plains to the gold fields of California , where he
remained about two years , engaged principally in quartz -mining. He
sailed from San Francisco to New Orleans, arriving there in the fall
of 1852. There he fell sick with a fever, which prostrated him for
some ten weeks. He had the good fortune, however , to find a friend
in an old -country acquaintance , to whom Mr. Barth is much indebted
for kindness during that long illness among strangers . The friend's
name was Philip Marx . Returning to Fayette, he found that Alex
ander Greenabaum had bought into the firm during his absence . This
firm , in 1853, started a branch house at Rocheport , and Moses was
placed in charge of it. . The Barths wound up their affairs with
Greenabaum in 1856 , and centered their business at Rocheport.
Two years later, they opened a branch store at Columbia , the
brother assuming charge . Thus they continued till 1869. In
1863–4 they handled tobacco . quite extensively , and also estab

lished a shirt factory in Philadelphia . Rocheport was burned
by Federals in 1864 , and their loss in buildings, merchan
dise and tobacco was almost a fortune in itself . Besides the firm's
losses , Moses lost some $ 7,000 in slave property by their eman
cipation . They managed to get rebuilt in 1866, when A. Victor and
H. W.Myer became associated with the firm , and the company thus
continued till disasters overtook them in 1869. These reverses ,
coupled with their losses by the war , forced them into bankruptcy .
Being released thereby from all indebtedness, Mr. B. was enabled to
start up again by the assistance of friends, and is now doing an exten
sive business in the mercantile line, and is a large shipper of grain ,
wool, and general produce . On March 21, 1855 , Mr. Barth married
Miss Minnie, daughter of Isaac L. Arnold , of Philadelphia . They
have seven children : Joseph ( in business with bis father ) ; Nettie , wife
of Victor Barth , of Columbia ; Linda, wife of S. Hanauer , of Bis
mark , D. T.; Pauline A. ; Carrie ; Isadore A .; Sadie A. Mr. Barth
is a member of Boone lodge No. 121, I. 0. 0. F. at Rocheport,
and is also a demitted Mason .
DAVID C. BARTON .
Was born on a farm in Audrain county , Missouri, February 1, 1848,

where he continued to reside with his parents until he was twenty
two years old . He then began learning the blacksmith trade with his
father , and after working one year, went to Paris, Monroe county ,
and there did journey work for nearly a year. He worked for other
men as a journeyman for some time and in various places , till be
finally opened a shop of his own in Perry , Ralls county , Missouri. In
1877 , he sold out there and went to Howard county , and started
a shop at White's store , where he remained one year and again sold
out. Opening out another place in same county , he operated till
1880 , when he went to Nevada City , Vernon county , and there car
ried on blacksmithing till he came to Rocheport, in Boone county, in
the fall of 1881. Here he purchased property , but engaged in no special
business till. 1882, when he was elected city marshal of Rocheport,
which position he holds at this writing. Mr. Barton , when a boy,
witnessed the famous “ Centralia massacre," when Anderson and his
guerrillas captured and killed a train load of Federals . Before Mr.
rton became marshal, Rocheport had been for some time afflicted
with a lawless class of negroes who frequently disturbed the quiet of

that staid old place ; but has effectually suppressed that class and has
them under thorough control. Hewas the man who arrested the
twelve notorious “ nigs " after the “ Rocheport riots ” in 1882, eight
of whom were sent to the penitentiary . (See history of town of
Rocheport ) . Mr. Barton certainly deserves the thanks of the citizens
of that place for the effectual way in which he has restored order . He
was married , March 6th , 1870 , to Miss Maggie Slough, of Cumber

land City , Maryland . Mr. and Mrs. Barton are Baptists , but not
connected with any church . He is very abstemious in his habits , not
even using tobacco ; and he has been a “ teetotaler " all his life , and
a member of the I. O. G. T. for eight years. He has held the posi
tion of Worthy Templar for several years , and was for one term
lodge deputy , under authority of the Grand Lodge of Missouri.
UGENUS BALDWIN . .
Capt. Ugenus Baldwin was born in Shelby county , Indiana, near

Shelbyville , the county seat , February 16th , 1833. When he was
four years old his parents removed to Missouri and settled in Boone
county , seven miles southeast of Rocheport, where he was raised ,
remaining with his parents until he reached manhood . In 1854 , when
in his twenty - first year , he went to Buchanan county , where he
engaged in teaching for one year. Returning home he attended La
throp Academy for two sessions, afterwards resuming his profession ,
teaching in Moniteau , Boone, Cooperand Howard counties . He enlisted ,
August 11th , 1861, in the Confederate army, under Capt. James
Watson and Col. John B. Clark . He was made second lieutenant
and served for six months, part of the time as captain of the com
pany. In 1862 he entered the regular Confederate service . In April
of that year he joined Company C., 6th Infantry , and in September
following was made third lieutenant, rising by promotion to the office
of first lieutenant, which place he held until the close of the war. He
was in many battles , the most important being Lexington , Pea Ridge ,
Vicksburg , Corinth, Iuka and Port Gibson . His command was
captured at Vicksburg and exchanged in the winter of 1863–64,
becoming a part of the second and sixth regiments, Missouri Infantry .
Heheld the position of first lieutenant in the re-organization . Henext
participated in the battles of New Hope Church , Kenesaw Mountain ,
and a series of skirmishes from New Hope Church to Atlanta . From
Atlanta he was sent by Gen. Hood with one hundred men to operate
in the rear of Sherman's army, as the latter was inarching on that

city . At the battle of Franklin he had command of the infirmary corps ,
and was employed in burying the dead and removing the wounded
from the battle field . In December of that year he was made provost
marshal of Cockerell's brigade, which position he held until his com
mand was captured in Alabama, April 9th , 1865. They were kept
prisoners until the close of the war . Mr. Baldwin remained in Mis
sissippi for one year after the close of the war, -engaged in teaching.
He returned to Boone county in 1868 and went to farming, teaching
school of winters. Mr. Baldwin was married in the fall of 1868 to
Miss Laura , daughter of William Allen , of Boone county , after which
he purchased the farm where he now resides . He farms during the
summer and teaches of winters , They have four children : Minnie
Lee , Lillie May, Emmett Allen and Mattie Pearl, all of whom are
living with their parents. Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin are members of the
Mount Nebo Methodist church . He is also a member of the Roche
port lodge of Ancient Order United Workmen . In 1874 he was ap
pointed a magistrate to fill a vacancy , after which he was elected to
the office and has held the position ever since .
THOMAS COLTER BARNES .
Thomas C. Barnes was born in Old Franklin , Howard county ,

Missouri, May 27th , 1819. He is the son of James and Nancy
(Colter ) Barnes. His father died when hewas but three years old
and his mother removed to Boone county, settling on a farm near
Columbia . He remained at home with his mother until 1835 , when ,
in his sixteenth year, he went to Columbia to learn the saddler's.
trade, serving under James Richardson . He remained in the shop
four years and a half. During this time he attended school six
months. He afterwards went to school five months at his own ex
pense. In 1840 he began farming as a renter and so continued for
five years, when he bought the farm he now occupies , which then
contained 160 acres , situated five and one-half miles northwest of
Columbia. He has added to this by subsequent purchases, and now
owns 240 acres. Mr. Barnes has been twice married . His second
wife was Miss Susan Davenport , of Boone county . He has ten

children , five by each wife . The children by the first marriage are
Margaret U., wifo of John Davenport , of Boone county ; James S., a
farmer in Audrain county ; Amanda, wife of Richard F. Farthing , of
Audrain county ; William H., of Audrain county , and Mary , wife of
Edward Farthing , of Audrain . By his second wife : John G., on

the homestead ; Minnie A., wife of Joseph Bennett, of Boone county ;
David D., Emma Ellen and Malissa Jane. Mr. Barnes and wife are
members of the Oakland Christian church . Previous to changing his
membership , he served as elder in the Friendship Christian church ,
for nine years . During the war he remained neutral. Mr. Barnes
has always taken a deep interest in local school matters and has
:
served on the school board of his district for many years, being much
of the time chairman of the committee .
EDWARD TURNER BRAMLETT , M. D.
Dr. Bramlett was born in the State of Mississippi, near Verona ,

December 4th , 1854 , and grew up in the place of his nativity . His
education was acquired partly in the State of his birth , at Mississippi
College , in Clinton , and partly at the University of Kentucky, at
Lexington . At the age of eighteen he began the study of medicine
under Dr. B. H. Whitfield , professor of natural science , in the above
first named college . Subsequently he attended the Louisville, Ken
tucky, Medical College, and graduated therefrom with the degree of
M. D. in March , 1876. Returning to Verona , he began the practice
of medicine in co-partnership with B. H. Armstrong, at the same
time engaging in the drug business in partnership with John A. Arm
strong . He remained there till 1879 , when , having closed his busi
ness and practice in that locality , he came to Boone county , Mis
souri, and located at Rocheport, where he resumed the practice . On
April 1st , 1882, he became associated with Dr. M. D. Lewis, under
the firm name of Bramlett & Lewis . These gentlemen , though still
young men , are thoroughly educated generally , as well as specially ,
and are building up an extensive practice in Boone, Howard , Cooper
and Moniteau counties .
GEORGE EDWARD BROWN .
George E. Brown, blacksmith and farmer , was born near Front

Royal, Warren county , Virginia , February 10 , 1830. His father be
ing a blacksmith , he was brought up to that trade. He commenced
work in the shop when he was but ten years old . He remained with
his father until 1855 , when he was twenty -five years old . On leaving
home he established a shop of his own at a place called Happy Creek ,
one mile south of Front Royal. Here he worked at his trade until
1859, when he sold out and came to Missouri. He arrived in Boone
county in November, and established his present place of business on

the Rocheport and Sturgeon road , four and one-half miles northeast
of Rocheport . In 1875 he added farming to his business of black
smithing, and has labored at both occupations ever since. He has 100
acres of land well adapted to stock raising. He has made farming
and the handling of stock quite profitable. Mr. Brown was married
January 3, 1856 , to Miss Mary . Shipe , of Warren county , Virginia .
They have eight living children . John William and Charles Edward
work in their father's shop . Robert Lee, Carrie Ella , Hattie ,
Henry , Rebecca and Moses are with their parents. Mrs. Brown is a
member of the Methodist church at Locust Grove. In 1864, Mr.
Brown enlisted in the Confederate army, becoming a member of
Capt . Davenport's company, Shelby's cavalry . He remained in the
army until the close of the war. He is a member of the Rocheport
lodge , No. 147, Independent Order of Good Templars.
HENRY JACKSON BROWN .
Henry J. Brown , farmer and stock raiser , was born near Front
Royal, Warren county, Virginia, October 7 , 1845 , where he lived with
his parents until he was seventeen years old , when he entered the
Confederate army as a private in Company D , Forty -ninth Virginia
infantry , in which he served until the close of the war . He was
in many engagements , the most important being Manassas Junc
tion , Seven Pines , Winchester , Sharpsburg , and the battles in the
Shenandoah Valley under Stonewall Jackson ; also Chancellorsville ,
where Jackson was killed . He was wounded four times. His brig
ade finally surrendered at Appomatox Court House in 1865 , when
he returned to the old home. He was so disabled by his wounds
that he was compelled to go on crutches until 1868, when he be
gan to work as a farm hand . In 1873 he came to Missouri , and
stopped in Boone county . For the first eight months he worked
on the farm of John W. Harris ; then rented a farm of Fielding
W. Smith , which he rented on shares for two seasons . In August ,
1876 , he purchased the farm upon which he is now living , situated
near Walnut Grove church , containing 168 acres . He was mar
ried October 7, 1869, to Miss Mary Bell , of Warren county , Vir
ginia . They have three children : Henry Esron , born in Virginia ,
August 4 , 1870 ; Mary F., born in Virginia , June 8, 1872 , and
David Elias , born in Boone county , March 4 , 1874 .
FRANCIS ELLIS CARR .
This gentleman , cashier of the Rocheport Savings Bank, was born

in Cooper county , Missouri, February 8 , 1855, his parents, Dr. F.
and Ella C. Carr being old residents of that county . Hewas educated
at William Jewell College , a Baptist institution located at Liberty ,
Missouri. On leaving school at the age of eighteen , in 1873, he en
tered the Rocheport Bank as clerk and book -keeper, serving four
years in that capacity . He then removed to Sturgeon , Boone county ,
where he was cashier of the Sturgeon Bank for three years, up to 1880 .
Returning then to Rocheport, he became cashier of the above named
bank , and still acts in that capacity at this writing. Mr. Carr was
married March 13, 1879, to Miss Carrie Harris, of Sturgeon , Missouri.
They have one child , a son named Ellis Marshall. The position Mr.
Carr has held and still holds, as clerk and cashier of these banks, is
fraught with a responsibility , that might be be considered a compli
ment to a much older man than he, and the bare fact that he has
faithfully and honorably discharged the duties pertaining thereto ,
stamps him already as a successful businessman , while still having the
greatest portion and last part of his life before him .
JEREMIAH W. CHAMPION .
The subject of this sketch , who at this writing is manager of the

- Monitor Mills " of Rocheport, was born in Caldwell county , Ken
tucky, November 17th , 1826 . His parents moved to Missouri when
he was two years old and settled in Howard county , where Jeremiah
was reared . He continued with his parents until attaining his legal
majority , when he left home and began life for himself. Purchasing
a farm in Howard county , near the Boone line, he owned and lived on
it till 1856 , excepting two years spent in California . In 1850 , he
rented his place , and started “ across the plains ” to the Eldorado of
gold seekers. He and his father were together, and they went into
the butchering business at Diamond Springs. The father , Drury C.
Champion , died there in January , 1852 , and Jeremiah started home
the same month . Arriving in Missouri, he resumed farming on his
place in Howard county, remaining till 1856 , when he sold out, and
erected a steam saw -mill in partnership with his uncle , Jeremiah
Rucker , and his brother , James Champion . He bought out the in
terest of the others in 1858 , and continued to operate themill in dif
ferent localities of Howard and Boone counties till June, 1875. Com
ing then to Rocheport , this county , he associated himself with Mr. L.

Grossman , and they erected the fine flouring mills , known as the
“ Monitor Mills, ” of which Mr. Champion is still the manager , bav
ing rented Mr. Grossman's interest in 1878. Mr. Champion entered
the state of connubial bliss , April 22d , 1848, when he was married to
Miss Lucy A. Hill, of Boone county . They have seven living children :
Martha Edna , wife of A. J. Turner ; Clarissa B., wife of J. T. Suttles
(Howard county ) ; William Harvey ; George H , Samie D. and Lena.
Mr. C. has been a member of the Christian church since he was sixteen ,
and Mrs. C. since she was fifteen years old . All the children but two be
long to the same. He is a member of Rocheport lodge , No. 67 , A. F.
and A.M., of which he is chaplain . He is also G.W.C. of Rocheport
lodge of Good Templars.
JOEL HAYDEN CHALLES .
Though Mr. Challes is now a resident of Howard county , living just.

across the line, he is a native of Boone county , and so thoroughly
identified with the former history of the county of his birth , as to de
serve biographical mention in this work . He was born on a farm near
Rocheport, February 7th , 1830 , where he grew up and received his
education . He continued to make the old homestead his home till he
was near thirty years old . His father had died when Joel H. was
seventeen years old , and the care of the family and the management
of the farm was left to himself and his brother Andrew . In October ,
1864 , he entered the Confederate service , in the regiment of Col.
Perkins, in Price's army, and served till the war closed . He had
married , in February , 1861, Miss Sallie W. Forbis, daughter ofG. B.
Forbis , of Boone county . Soon after his marriage he rented the farm
which he now owns and on which he resides, leaving his family there
while he was away in the war . Returning home when the troubles
were over , he lived as a renter on the place some seven years , and
then bought it. There were 103 acres, to which he has added by sub
sequent purchases till it now numbers 328 acres , all well improved .
Seven children still survive to Mr. Challes and wife, named re
spectively : George W., Sidney , Sallie, John, William R., Nannie and
Jennie . They lost one, Mary , who died at two years old . These
were all born on the place where the family now reside, and on which
Mr. C. will probably spend the remainder of his days. The subject
of this sketch is no aspirant for political honors, butmuch prefers the:
quiet of his own home and farm , to the eclat and excitement of official
campaigning . He is one of those substantial citizenswho has amassed ,

what property he has by thrift and economy, and takes a supreme
pleasure in his family , and his surroundings generally .
JOHN HOWARD CHAMBERS
Was born at Old Mines, Washington county , Missouri, February 10th ,

1824. In 1827, his parentsmoved to Union , Franklin county , where
John H. was reared and educated . During his boyhood , he clerked
in his father's store at Union , in the interm of his school terms, and
thus continued till he was twenty years old . He then began merchan
dising at Union , and continued there till 1855. He then came to
Rocheport, this county , and associated himself with Clayton Brothers ,
merchants , under the style of Clayton , Chambers & Co. They did
business thus till they were forced to discontinue, owing to unsettled
condition of things, in 1862. Mr. Chambers returned to Franklin
county and opened a store in what is now New Haven , where he con
tinued to do business till the war closed . In 1864 , he was raided by a
portion of Price's Confederates, under Gen. Marmaduke, and relieved
of a large amount of supplies such as boots , shoes, clothing, dry
goods, etc. Returning to Rocheport , in 1865, he became associated
with his old partners, and continued the mercantile business thus till
1868,when they closed out. Mr. Chambers then became connected
with J. H. Armstrong and R. S. Miller , as a milling company, and
they built the “ Star Mills " of that town . Hewithdrew from the firm
in '73 , and again began merchandising. His brother, James A., and his
son , George C., became connected with the concern in 1880, the firm
being styled Chambers Bros. & Co. Mr. Chambers was married on
the 11th of October , 1848, to Miss Judith S. Clayton , of Union ,
Franklin county . They have two children — Laura , wife of J. E.
Miller, of Nevada , Missouri, and George C., junior partner of the
above firm . Mr. Chambers and wife both belong to the Christian
church , and Mrs. Miller is also a member of the same.
JOHN S. CLAYTON .
The gentleman whose nameheads this sketch , one of the leading

husiness men of the county , was born in Union , Franklin county ,
Missouri, June 21st, 1833 , and there grew to manhood . His father
was a merchant by vocation , and when John S. was eleven years old ,
he was placed in the store, and did not attend schoolafterwards till he
went to take a commercial course. He acquired his education , chiefly ,

in the store , and when seventeen years old , attended Jones ' Commer
cial College, in St. Louis, and , after finishing his course there, was
employed as shipping clerk by a St. Louis house , retaining the posi
tion until 1852. He then went to Washington , Missouri, and em
barked in the mercantile business . He only remained one year, how
ever , when he came to Rocheport, in this county , and engaged in mer
chandising with his father , Thomas F. Clayton , they doing business
under the style of T. F. Clayton & Co. until 1855. The father then re
tiring from the business , John S.became associated with his brother ,
J. R. Clayton , and J. H. Chambers, the firm being styled Clayton ,
Chambers & Co. They continued business till 1862, and were then
forced to discontinue because of the war . In January , 1863, he and
Capt. W. P. Wilcox ventured in the generalmerchandising and pro
duce business , and operated till January , 1865. Owing to the dis
turbed condition of the country, they closed their business in Roche
port and went to Omaha , Nebraska , where they , with William Ste
phens, organized the firm ofClayton , Stephens & Wilcox , and opened
up in the general merchandise line. Mr. Clayton , in the fall of 1865 ,
while still retaining his connection with the Omaha concern , returned
to Rocheport, and formed the firm of Clayton , Miller & Co., general
merchants and tobacco dealers. They also built the grist mill known
now as the “ Boone County Star Mills . " At the death ofMr. Miller ,
in January , 1880, a stock company was formed , of which Mr. Clayton
was made superintendent and general manager, and this company still
carries on the business. In addition
to this, Mr. Clayton acts as
steamboat agent , and also conducts an establishment for the sale of
farm machinery and operates as a railroad contractor. On November
the 18th , 1857, Mr. Clayton wasmarried to Miss Fannie Chambers ,
of Union , Missouri. They have three children , named respectively :
Howard , Belle, (wife of Jno. T.Mitchell, of Centralia ), and “ Tom .”
Mr. C. is a member of Boone Lodge , No. 121 , 1. 0. O. F., of Roche
port, and he and his wife both belong to the Christian church .
MARCELLUS D. COOK .
Marcellus D. Cook was born in Hopkins county , Kentucky, near

Madisonville , January 20th , 1818 , where he lived with his parents un
til he attained his tenth year, when they came to Missouri and settled
on a farm seven miles east of Rocheport, where he resided with his
parents until he was twenty -one years of age , when he commenced

farming for himself as a renter. He followed this business until 1842 ,
when he purchased a farm on which he now lives. August 27th ,
1839, he married Miss Elizabeth Smith , of Boone county, by whom
he has seven children : Henry S., of Smithton , Missouri ; William
Harrison , of Boone county ; David Willis , of Boone county ; Charles
M., merchant, of Columbia ; Amanda Ellen , wife of James R. Jacobs ,
of Boone county , and Jefferson Price and Samuel, at home with their
parents. Mr. Cook and his wife are members of the Sugar Creek
Baptist church , having united with that denomination in 1835. Dur
ing the war he was not engaged on either side, but was Southern in
sentiment. He suffered severe loss of property , but escaped without
bodily harm . The Federal soldiers took from him about six hundred
dollars worth of horses, and he was not even spared by his own party .
SAMUEL DAVIS COCHRAN .
The subject of this sketch was born on the old John G. Cochran
farm , two and one-half miles east of Rocheport , December 11th , 1832 .
He is the son of John G. and Delina Cochran . His grandfather, Will
iam Cochran , emigrated from Scotland before the revolutionary war
and settled in Kentucky, removing from that State to Missouri in 1818 ,
settling first at Boone's Lick , in Howard county , coming the follow
ing year to Boone county , where he located on a farm four and one
half miles east of Rocheport. His son , John G., settled the farm ,
upon which Samuel was born , in 1825 . The subject of this sketch re
mained with his parents until he was twenty -one years of age. He
was married , October 16th , 1856, to Miss Amanda Boggs , who died
December 22d , 1880. After his marriage Mr. Cochran purchased a
farm which he cultivated until the breaking out of the war. In 1864
he joined the Confederate army, enlisting in Company K , 9th regi
ment, Jackman's brigade, of Shelby's division , with which he served
until the close of the war , in 1865 , when he returned to Boone county .
Soon after his return he sold his farm and bought the place upon
which he now resides , five miles east of Rocheport, known as the
William Boggs farm , consisting of 160 acres. He has four children :
Mollie D., Owen W., Amanda and Eliza B., all of whom are living
with their parents. Mr. Cochran is in faith a Cumberland Presby
terian . One son and one daughter , Owen and Amanda , are members
of the Baptist church at Sugar Creek . He is a member of the Roche
port lodge of A. F. and A. M.
JAMES NICHOLAS DARBY .
James Nicholas Darby, druggist, Rocheport, Missouri,was born near

Fayette , Missouri, March 11th , 1855. He was raised and educated in
Howard county . He remained with his parents, Ira C. and Kittie (nee
Long ) Darby, for three years after attaining his majority , working on
the farm . He left home in 1879 and came to Rocheport where he ap
plied himself to the task of learning the apothecary's business with J.
R. Moss. In 1880 he bought out his employer and established him
self in the business. In the fall of 1881 he sold a half interest to Dr.,
E. H. Chinn , an old school-mate , who was born and reared in the
same neighborhood as himself. The business is now conducted under
the firm name of Darby & Chinn . Mr. Darby is an energetic business
man and has a host of friends, both in Boone and Howard . His part
ner is a popular young physician who is rapidly building up a large
and substantial practice . The firm has the confidence and good-will
of the public and their future is bright and promising .
JOHN SAMUEL DENHAM .
John S. Denham , farmer and stock raiser , was born near the Model
Farm , in Boone county , Missouri, June 18th , 1845. His father ,
Samuel Denham , a native of Kentucky, came to this State in 1830 ,
and settled in Boone county . He lived at intervals in both Boone
and Howard , but finally settled permanently in this county , where he
died in 1872, at the age of 73. The subject of this sketch was raised
in the vicinity of his birthplace, and received his education at private
schools in the neighborhood and at Lathrop Academy and Central
College, Fayette. In 1863 he attended Jones' Commercial College,
taking a full course . He afterwards taught mathematics in that
institution . In 1865 he was employed as book-keeper by the firm of
Hume, Park & Co., Columbia , Missouri, remaining with them two
years . He kept books for Clayton , Miller & Co., Rocheport,
Missouri, from 1867 to 1878. Leaving this firm in 1878 , be returned
to the old homestead where he farmed for one year . In 1869 he
began teaching. He taught one year at Lathrop Academy and three
years at Walnut Grove Academy. His father dying in 1872 , he was
obliged to abandon teaching and take charge of the estate . He was
married , October 3d , 1871, to Miss Meribah , daughter of David Isaacs,

of Howard county . They have three children : Butler, Mattie Lou
and Katy . Mr. Denham and his wife are members of the Walnut
Grove Baptist church , of which he is treasurer. In 1874 he purchased

the old homestead of 400 acres , upon which he now lives . He makes
cattle and sheep raising a specialty . His cattle are short-horns , and
of registered pedigrees . His sheep are thoroughbred Cotswold ,
imported from Canada in 1876 .
BENJAMIN F. DIMITT .
Mr. Dimitt is a Kentuckian , and was born in Bourbon county, that

State , January 19th , 1828. He continued to reside in his native
county till he was sixteen years old , when he removed with his parents
to Howard county , Indiana . In 1847 he came out to Missouri and , at
the age of nineteen , began life for himself as a teacher . Subsequently ,
in 1851, he attended Central College at Fayette , Howard county ,
Missouri, and was for some time a student of that institution . In
1852 he was employed to teach in the preparatory department of that
college , and was there till his coming to Rocheport , this county , the
succeeding year . Here, again , he engaged in teaching for a year, and
then established himself in the drug business in the same town. This
was in 1854 , and he has continued in the same line ever since . In
1864, when the militia burned part of the town of Rocheport , Mr.
Dimitt's store was burned ,as, being a Southern sympathizer, he could
not, of course , escape that disaster. On the 20th of October , 1852 ,
he married Miss Sarah E. McDonald , of Howard county , Missouri.
They have three living children : Emma, wife of Professor Singleton ,
principal of the Orange College , Texas ; Frank C., clerk in his father's
store ; and Dixie L., still living with her father . Mr. Dimitt and wife
are both members of the M. E. Church , South , and he also belongs to
the Masonic fraternity , with membership in Rocheport lodge, No. 67,
A. F. & A. M.
JAMES MONROE DOUGLASS .
James Monroe Douglass is the youngest son of Henry L. and Susan

( Jacobs ) Douglass, pioneer settlers of Boone county . He was born
on the Douglass homestead , where he now lives , March 9th , 1852.
His father bequeathed the home place to him in 1882, a short time
previous to his death , in consideration of the latter's maintenance of
his widowed mother and invalid sister . He is a thrifty farmer , and is
held in high esteem by his neighbors. His father, Henry L. Douglass,
deceased , was born in St. Louis county , Missouri, February 15th ,
1810 , where he lived with his parents until he was ten years old ,
when they came to Boone county and settled at Locust Grove , now
65
known as Midway, where he was raised . He remained with his

parents until his marriage to Miss Susan Jacobs, December 20th ,
1832, when he commenced working for himself as a farmer, having
purchased a small farm on Perche Creek , near where the Columbia
and Rocheport road crosses that stream . He remained on this farın
until 1837 , when he purchased the homestead now occupied by his
son , James Monroe , containing 480 acres, four miles southeast of
Rocheport, where he lived until his death , March 27th , 1882. Mrs.
Douglass survives him . They have six living children : William G.
and Joseph A., farmers, of Missouri township ; Virgie , wife of C. M.
Boggs , and Lizzie, wife of C. G. Boggs, both of Missouri township ,
and Fannie and James, who are living on the home place. Mr.
Douglass had , by rare energy and good management, accumulated
considerable property . He was charitable and generous , a kind
neighbor and a devoted Christian , being for many years a member of
the Locust Grove Methodist Church South . He united with the
church in 1837 .
JOHN DODSON .
Mr. Dodson is a native of Missouri, and was born in Howard

county , near New Franklin , September 7th , 1842. He continued to
reside with his parents till he was nineteen , receiving his education
in the schools of New Franklin , and at Central College , in Fayette .
On leaving home, in 1861, he went to Springfield , Illinois, where he
was variously employed till 1866 , when he returned to Missouri, locat
ing at Rocheport. Here he was employed , in 1868 , as a clerk in the
store of J. W.Morris, remaining with him till 1870. He was then
taken in by his employer as a partner in the concern , George Calvert
also coming in , the style being “ Dodson , Calvert & Co." They dis
continued the business in 1872 , and Mr. Dodson formed a partner
ship with William M. Ridgeway for the grocery business, in which
line they continued at Rocheport till 1876. They then sold out and
went into the livery business , in which they are still engaged , running
a daily stage line to Columbia . Mr. Dodson was married , December
18th , 1863, o Miss Clara Wheeler, daughter of Henderson Wheeler ,
one of the oldest settlers of Boone county . They have one child , a
daughter , named Annie. Himself and wife are both members of the
Christian Church , and he belongs , also , to the Boone lodge, No. 121 ,
I. 0. 0. F., of which he has “ passed through all the chairs ," and
is now the treasurer .
REUBEN ELLIOTT , SEN ., DECEASED .
The subject of this sketch was one of the pioneer settlers of Boone
county . He was a soldier in the war of 1812 , and at the age of nine
teen participated in the battle of New Orleans. In 1818 he was mar
ried to Elizabeth White , who, like himself, was a native of Kentucky.
The year after their marriage they emigrated to Missouri, settling in
Boone county . At first he rented a portion of the land now included
in the Model Farm , where he remained until 1828 , when he bought a
farm on Callaham's creek , where he lived for five years . In 1833
he purchased the old Elliott homestead, containing 217 acres, situ
ated on the Columbia and Rocheport turnpike, two miles east of Roche
port. Here he remained until his death , which occurred September
25th , 1869. At the time of his death he was sixty-four years old .
Mr. Elliott was a stone mason , and is said to have built the first stone
house ever erected in Boone county . This dwelling was built for
Joseph Little, in 1828 , and is still standing. He also built, for Dr.
George Wilcox, the first brick house in Rocheport . In 1831 he
crossed the plains to Mexico with wagons, carrying dry goods and
groceries to Santa Fe. He was one of the original members of the
Walnut Grove Baptist Church , remaining a faithful member of the

congregation up to the day of his death .
ISHMAEL V. EVANS.
Ishmael V. Evans is the son of Willis G. and Jane M. (Vanhorn )

Evans, and was born near Rocheport, Missouri, August 3d , 1858 .
He was reared on the farm , and educated at the common schools of
the neighborhood , completing his studies at the Rocheport Academy.
He resides on the home place , and supports his widowed mother, his
father having died in 1869. Mr. Evans has, by his excellent manage
ment of the farm and sincere devotion to his mother , sister and
younger brothers, won for himself the esteem and confidence of all
who are familiar with his labors .
Willis Evans,'father of Ishmael V.,
When two
was born in Madison county , Kentucky, May 28th , 1818 .
years old his parents came to Missouri, and settled on a farm in
Howard county , where his father died two years afterwards. Willis
was then taken by his uncle , Stephen G. Evans, with whom he lived
until he reached manhood . December 14th , 1842 , he married Miss
Jane M., daughter of Ishmael and Evaline Vanhorn , of Boone county .
After his marriage he settled upon the farm upon which his son , Ish
mael V., now lives, where he spent the remainder of his life , dying
January 19th , 1869. He left eight children : Alice , wife of John W.
Carlisle , of Columbia ; Edward H., a physician of Buonville , Mis
souri ; John G., of Fayette, Missouri ; Ella , wife of Fielding W.
Angell , of Missouri township , and Ishmael V., who is conducting the
farm and caring for his mother , Eva , Luther and Robert , all of whom
are living on the home place . At the time of his death Mr. Evans
was a member of the Methodist Church South at Locust Grove.
GEORGB BRYANT FORBIS .
The subject of this sketch is one among the oldest citizens of Boone
county . He was born near Lexington , Kentucky, December 28th ,
1799. When in his thirteenth year, his parents removed to Kentucky,
where he lived until his nineteenth year, when he began to do for him
self by teaching school, which he followed continuously for fifteen
years . He wasmarried , August 13th , 1835 , to Miss Elizabeth Wilcox,
sister of the late Dr. George B. Wilcox , of Rocheport . Mrs. Forbis
is a lineal descendant of Daniel Boone, the pioneer hero of “ the dark
and bloody ground .” She was born in Shelby county , Kentucky, in
1810 , where she lived with her parents , John and Sarah ( Boone )
Wilcox, until her marriage to Mr. Forbis in 1835. They emigrated
to Missouri in 1836 , arriving in Rocheport November 19th . Soon
after his arrival Mr. Forbis purchased the farm upon which he now re
sides . It consists of 212 acres and has been cultivated by him con
tinuously ever since it passed into his possession . He has been from
early manhood a consistent member of the Primitive Baptist church .
When he came to Missouri he united with the Missionary Baptist
church at Walnut Grove , as there was no congregation of Primitive
Baptists then within his reach . In 1871 he withdrew from the Walnut
Grove church and together with his wife assisted in the organization
of the Zoar Primitive Baptist church in Howard county . He has been
clerk of this church ever since its organization . He is an ardent de
voted Christian and a firm believer in the Calvinistic tenets of the Old
School Baptist denomination . They have eight living children : Sarah ,
wife of Joel H.Challes ; Mary , relict of the late A. J. Barnett ; Harriet
W .; George W .; Eliza , wife of George W. Thompson ; Emma ; John
E., of Oregon , and William P., who still remains on the homestead
and superintends the farm . George W.'was considerably wounded
by the bursting of a shell, while serving in the Confederate army at
Pea Ridge . He was afterwards taken prisoner at Port Gibson and
HISTORY OF BOONE COUNTY .. 1029
was incarcerated at Alton until released on parole . Mr. Forbis is a

zealous advocate of popular education . He served as school director
in bis district from 1840 to 1860 .
HENRY HARRISON GARTH .
Mr. Garth is another citizen who can boast of having been “ to the
manner born .” He is the son of Jefferson and Mary Garth , old resi
dents of the county , and was born in Columbia , May 5th , 1841. He
was reared in his native town and educated in the University there .
His first business experience was that of clerk for Stone & Son in the
dry goods business in Columbia . In May, 1865, he went to Roche
port and engaged in the grocery business , and is still in the same line
of business at the same place. On the 9th of October , 1862, he mar
ried Miss Rhodie Turner, of which union there has been born one
child , a daughter , named Lizzie. Mr. Garth belongs to Boone lodge,
No. 121, I. 0. O. F., and is an honored citizen of Rocheport .
LEOPOLD GROSSMAN .
The subject of this sketch is a son of Francis and Frederica Gross
man , and was born in Baden , Germany , November 15th , 1817 . His
father was proprietor of a mill, and Leopold learned the trade of
miller, having been reared to that vocation from early boyhood . At
the age of seventeen , he was “ turned out ” for two years to learn the
art of baking , so that at the age of nineteen , he found himself master
of two trades — those of a miller and baker . He then began traveling
in these vocations, operating as a journeyman worker in first one and
then the other of them , traveling in Germany and France for some
years. While thus engaged , he operated in Heidleberg , Stuttgart,
Vienna , Strasburg , and many other great cities, all of which tended
to expand his mind and give him a knowledge of the business world .
In 1840 , Mr. Grossman came to the United States , arriving in New
Orleans on Christmas of that year. He proceeded to Ohio , and was
there employed about three months in a grist mill. Then he and his
uncle , Albright Breslaw , went to Fayetteville , Arkansas, where they
erected a grist and sawmill. Here Mr. G. remained about one year
when he left and went to St. Charles, Missouri, where he had relatives
from the old country . Renting a farm , he began farming in St.
Charles county , and was there married on the 19th of August, 1842,
to Miss Melinda Wokely . In the fall following, he rented a sawmill
near St. Charles , and followed “ lumbering " till 1844 , when he was
forced to abandon it because of ill health . He came to Rocheport , in

this county , in the spring and here engaged in the bakery business on
Water street , which he operated successfully till December, 1845 ,
when he sold out and returned to St. Charles , his wife being dissatis
fied with Rocheport . There he purchased the sawmill he had form
erly rented , and ran it until May , '48 . He then sold out and once
more returned to Boone county , and hasbeen a citizen here ever since .
Again starting his bakery , he continued thus uutil 1858 , when he pur
chased a farm near Rocheport , and began operating it with slaves , of
which he owned a considerable number . He still owns the farm .
After one year he returned to town , and began the general merchan
dise business with William West , firm style of West & Grossman . At
this timehe had amassed considerable property . But now came the
period of reverses, among which was the payment of one security..
debt to the amount of $ 4,000 . About the same time the war broke
out, paralyzing business, and Mr. G. did but little till 1863 , when he
and Geo . W.Gregory opened up the bakery and grocery business ,
which they continued successfully till 1871. During this time they
built two large store houses , and a warehouse . Mr. Grossman still
carries on this business, Gregory having retired from the firm . In
1875 , Mr. G. and Mr. Champion built the “ Monitor Mills ” in Roche
port, which they still own . He has four living children : Houston ;
Josephine, wife of Dr. Edward Evans, of Boonville ; Eliza , and
Annie , wife of Dr. Chinn , of Rocheport . Mr. Grossman has done
much to build up and keep up the trade of Rocheport, and to improve
the town . He has been a member of the town board for twenty
years , about half that time serving as town mayor. He was
elected president of the savings bank in 1878, and is still in connec
tion therewith . He belongs to the Rocheport lodge of. A. F. & A.
M., and is one of the most esteemed citizens of the place .
GEN . STEWART B. HATTON .
Gen. Stewart B. Hatton , one of the oldest pioneers of Boone

county and a man of distinguished natural ability , popularity and
influence , is the tenth son and fourteenth child of Reuben and Joan
(Beleau ) Hatton . His father was born in 1762, of English parents ,
being one of the third generation after the removal from England .
He was born and raised to the age of nineteen years in Amelia
county , Virginia , receiving an excellent common school education .
At the breaking out of the revolutionary war, he entered the American
army, being at the time but nineteen years of age. He was at the
battles of Guilford Court House and Eutaw . Springs , also in the
disastrous engagement with Lord Rawdon . The close of the war
found him in South Carolina. Being charmed with the country and
the climate , he resolved to remain in the south . Having learned the
hatter's trade with his father before the war , he applied for a
situation , and was employed by a Frenchman named Beleau , a
descendant of a Huguenot family , of South Carolina , whose wife was
of the same faith and nativity . This proved an important epoch in
the life of Reuben Hatton . He made love to his employer's daughter
and was accepted . In the course of time they were married , and the
well -matched couple lived happily together as man and wife for over
half a century . Their large family , with but two exceptions, lived to
old age and left large families of their own. The descendants of
Reuben and Joan Hatton now. number over a thousand souls , and are
scattered over almost the entire South and West. After his marriage ,
Reuben Hatton remained for several years in South Carolina. His
three oldest children were born in that State . Having heard of

Daniel Boone's exploits in Kentucky, he joined one of the bands of
emigrants which that daring hunter piloted through the wilderness to
one of his settlements on the Kentucky river . They were several
.months on the road . Reuben Hatton settled on a fine body of land
near what was afterwards known as Foxtown , in Madison county . H
built him a good house and a hatter's shop . Several of his sons
learned the trade, and they did a good business. Real estate having
rapidly increased in value, Reuben Hatton found that he could not
settle all of his large family on homes of their own in Madison county ,
and he resolved to emigrate to Missouri. Two of his sons, Mitchell
and William , having volunteered in the war of 1812, and having been
sent west to protect the frontier, wrote back to their parents to sell
out and remove to Missouri, describing it as the finest country they
had ever seen . Reuben Hatton was pleased with the idea , and , having
disposed of his home in Kentucky, removed to St. Louis county ,
Missouri, in 1814 , when the subject of this sketch was but three years
old , he having been born in Madison county , Kentucky , February 5th ,
1811. They remained in St. Louis county nearly three years, where
Mitchell Hatton , the fourth son , was married . His wife was Anna
Whitesides, a niece of Gen.Whitesides, under whom he had served
during a portion of the war of 1812 , and after whom Whitesides
county , Illinois, was afterwards named . Mitchell Hatton died on his
farm in Boone county , now occupied by his son , Fleming B. Hatton ,

March , 1863, aged sixty -seven . He was a justice of the peace for
twenty years, and never had but three cases reversed by the circuit
court . Seven children were born to him , only three of whom are now
living : Mrs. Hester Ann Hatton , Fleming B. and John W. Hatton .
Reuben Hatton came to Boone county in 1817, and settled on a farm
near Midway . It is claimed for him that he built the first house in the
county that was covered with shingles. However doubtful this may
be , there cannot be the least shadow of doubt that he established the
first nursery of fruit trees, having brought his stock with him from
Kentucky to St. Louis, and from St. Louis to Boone county . Gen.
Hatton commenced life for himself as a batter, having a shop near
Midway , in Boone county . He afterwards bought the Dixon water
mill on the Callaham , and removed to the place vacated by Mr. Dixon .
He was married , April 5th , 1834 , to Alitha Barnes, daughter of Amos
Barnes, mentioned elsewhere in this volume. He was married by
“ old uncle Jimmie Barnes," a pioneer preacher and an uncle of Mrs.
Hatton . Three children were born of this marriage, one son and two
daughters . The youngest, Mrs. Wilcox, is dead . The eldest
daughter , Mrs. Jackson Yeager, is living on a cotton plantation in

Arkansas. The oldest child , Rev. William A. Hatton , is pastor of the
Baptist church at Memphis , Missouri. The eldest daughter has been
twicemarried . Her first husband was George W.Milhollen , who was
killed in Linn county , Missouri, during the late war. From early
manhood to middle age , Gen. Hatton was continually in office , mostly
in the militia . He has held every military office from first sergeant to
brigadier-general. In 1850 he was elected to the legislature . He
served in the Black Hawk and Mormon wars, and took an active part
in the late civil war , being commissioned to raise, organize and send
forward troops to Price's army. He assisted in organizing the forces
that were taken south by Gens. Green and Harris. He was with
Gen. Harris at the Fulton fight , and planned the ambuscade by which
Harris was enabled to get out of a very close place , after inflicting
severe loss on the enemy. Their orders were not to fire a gun if it
could be avoided , but it became necessary to strike terror into the
hearts of his pursuers. It was through his advice that Jeff . Jones
was enabled to dictate his own terms to Gen. Henderson , who had a
much larger force . During the troubles in Kansas in 1856 , he raised
a company of men and went to the assistance of the pro -slavery party ,
but the difficulty was settled without serious bloodshed . During the
-
latter part of the late war, he was taken prisoner . He was soon
released , however , but was again arrested and kept a close prisoner
until near the close of the war. He was severely blamed by some of
his own party for not joining the regular army, but in remaining north
of the river , he was but obeying positive orders from Gen. Price , who
sent couriers through to him every few weeks. Had he not been
ordered to remain , he would certainly have gone to the front and
remained there . He always advised against fighting on this side of
the river, so long as it could be avoided , and in so doing he was but
obeying the written instructions received from Gen. Price , and
reiterated from time to time. The labors of Gen. Hatton in behalf
of the South are not historical , but are none the less sincere and
effective on that acconnt . He is a Mason and a member of the
Methodist Church .
WILLIAM DOUGLASS HENDERSON .
William Douglass Henderson , one of the most substantial farmers

in the vicinity of Midway, was born at a place called Big Muddy, in
Illinois , October 29th , 1817 , while his parents were en route from
Kentucky to Missouri. In the month of November following his
parents reached Florissant , St. Louis county , Missouri, where they
remained during the winter. In the spring of 1818 his father came
to Boone county, and purchased the land now known as the Hen
derson homestead , containing 306 acres , situated near Midway . Mr.
Henderson was raised on this farm . The opportunities for obtaining
an education at this time and place were poor indeed . The subject of
this sketch had no other instruction than such as could be obtained
by attending subscription schools for a few months of the year , usually
in mid -winter. In 1836 , his father's health failing , he took control
of the farm and managed it until his death , which occurred in 1843.
The farm having been willed to Mrs. Henderson , he remained with
her until her death , in 1871. Previous to his mother's death , Mr.
Henderson had purchased the interest of the other heirs, and so be
came sole proprietor of the old homestead . During the late civil war ,
Mr. Henderson was avowedly Southern in sentiment, and suffered
financially for his principles , notwithstanding he took no part in the
struggle . Mr. Henderson has been twice married . His first wife
was Miss Eleanor , daughter of Warren Leonard , of Boone county ,
Missouri, to whom he was married March 29th , 1845. By this mar
riage he has five living children . His oldest daughter, Sarah C., is
the wife of Charlie Hance , clerk of the Randolph county court.

John C. is married and is living on a farm in the neighborhood of
Midway. Agnes is the wife of R. P. Jones , of Moberly , Missouri.
Nora and Richard are still living at home. Mr. Henderson was again
married April 2d , 1868, to Mrs. Arcena Thurston , of Midway. She
died April 7th , 1877. Mr. Henderson has been an active member of
the Methodist Church for forty years . He has been class -leader
since 1844 , and has served as steward and Sunday school superin
tendent for the saine length of time. His house is one of the old
landmarks of Boone county . It was the first tavern established on
the stage route between Columbia and Fayette, and was the voting
place for Missouri township from its organization up to 1840 .
BRANUM HERN .
Branum Hern is entitled to the distinction of being one among the

first settlers of Boone county . Many came at as early a date, and
some were here earlier, but perhaps not one in a thousand of those
old pioneers , take the county and State over, are alive to -day .
The subject of this sketch was born in Madison county , Kentucky ,
December 23d , 1812 , and when a lad of seven years came with his
parents to Missouri, arriving in old Franklin , January 6th , 1819 .
They did not tarry long at that place , coming to Boone county within
the same month of their arrival in Howard but there was no dis
tinction in those days , all the country of Central Missouri being then
known as Howard county . He lived with his parents until he was
seventeen , when he began to provide for himself , His father being a
mechanic , he became one naturally . Hewas, even at the age of seven
teen , very skillfulas a wheel-wright, and fouud plenty of work , making
spinning wheels , and turning bed -posts, for the people in those days
depended almost exclusively upon their own mechanics for furniture ,
and the necessary appliances for spinning and weaving, there being as
yet but little communication with the outer world . Heworked in the
shops until 1833 , when he turned his attention exclusively to farming .
In 1839 he purchased a tract of land containing 120 acres , six and one
half miles northeast of Rocheport ,of which he has made the farm upon
which he now lives. He has been twice married . His first wife was
Emelinė, daughter of John Barnes. They were married in January ,
1833. His second wife was Lucy , daughter of George Crump. They
were married in September , 1859. By the first marriage there are
four living children : Mary Ann , relict of the the late John Hunter ;
Hubbard , of Kansas ; William , of Bates county , Missouri, and Sally ,

wife of Armstead Garnard , also of Bates county .
GEORGE HINTON HILL .
The subject of this sketch is the son of James A. and Sarah H. Hill,
the latter being a daughter of Dr. George B. Wilcox , pioneer physician
of Boone county . George was born in Rocheport, September 4th ,
1847, and was reared and partially educated in the sametown . When
fifteen years old , he began to learn the blacksmith's trade with Hen
derson Wheeler ,at Rocheport,with whom he worked several years , still
making his home with his parents . At the close of his apprenticeship
he went to Greencastle , Indiana , where , after working at his trade for
a short time, he started in to learn the harness -making . He held on
a year , but found that close confinement was impairing his health .
For the sake of change he worked on a farm near Greencastle for two
years, during which he had the misfortune to have his leg broken by a
runaway team . Returning then to Rocheport , on his recovery , in
1870 , he made his home with his mother , his father having died during
bis absence . A year later hemoved on a farm near Columbia , which
he worked two years , when he returned to Rocheport . After working
awhile for his uncle, Judge Hinton , he was engaged by Mr. Wheeler
to run his shop in Rocheport. A year later he associated himself with
H. F. Williams in blacksmithing . Chey continued in that business
till this writing . Mr. Hill was married on the 24th of March , 1878 ,
to MissGeorgia Crump, of Rocheport. She died September 20th ,
1879 , having borne one child , a son , named George, born September
18th , 1879. Mr. Hill is a member of the Christian church , and his
wife, at her death , belonged to the Baptist church . He is also a mem
ber of Rocheport Lodge No. 147, I. O. G. T., of which he is record
ing secretary.
WILLIAM HULETT .
The subject of this sketch is a Kentuckian , and was boru in Mercer

county , June 15th , 1830. His parents, Edward and Rebecca Hulett ,
moved to this State in 1832 , and settled in Rocheport , Boone county ,
where William was reared . He began learning the saddler's and har
ness-maker's trades at the age of sixteen , his “ boss ” being Mr.
Henry Tumy, with whom he not only mastered the art, but worked
for him eight years after he had learned it and become a skilled work
man . In 1856 , he went to Sturgeon , this county , and opened up in
the business for himself, where he remained till 1860. Returning to
Rocheport , he did not again go into business , as the war was upon us,
and no one could tell what the end would be. In 1862, Mr. Hulett
enlisted in company A , of Col. Poindexter's regiment of Confederates ,
and served eighteen months , when he was discharged on account of
bad health , and allowed to take his own course . He was out of busi
ness till the spring of '66 , when he started a shop in Rocheport, and
bas so continued ever since . In the fall of '78 , he established the
livery business in connection with bis harness shop , and does a sub
stantial business in both lines . Mr. H. has been twice married . His
first wife was Miss Zerelda, daughter of William Phillips, of Roche
port, to whom he was married in 1852. She died the following year,
and he was again married , in 1855, to Miss Judith Hunt, daughter of
L. B. Hunt , an old resident of this county . Mr. Hulett has five chil
dren : Effie O., (wife of Ernest Granberry ) , Daniel E., William B.,
Pearl and Paul. The first named and hermother belong to the Chris
tian church . Mr. H. belongs to the Rocheport lodge of A. O. U. W.
Early in life , Mr. Hulett had the misfortune to contract the habit and
love of strong drink ; and though he made money rapidly , he failed to
hold it, being fond of jovial companions and the cup that cheers .
However, he was fortunate enough to see the folly of such a course of
dissipation , and formed a firm resolve to stop it then and there . By
the force of a strong will he was enabled to keep his resolution , the
result of which was complete reformation . Mr. H. deserves much
credit for thus manfully conquering a depraved appetite , which , alas !
;
so many fail to do ; and the historian records this by permission of Mr.

Hulett, in the hope that there are “ foot-prints , which perhaps an
other, seeing , shall take heart again , ” Since his change of life , he
has prospered exceedingly well. He owns one of the most pleasant
residences in Rocheport, and his shop and livery stable are models of
thrift and neatness . The rank that Mr. H. now occupies in business
and social circles , shows what any man can do who only wills.
COMMODORE PERRY HULTZ .
The subject of this sketch was born in Delaware county , New York ,
September the 16th , 1813 , and lived there with his parents until he
married, which was on the 22nd of June, 1837 , to Miss Acenith W.
Armstrong, of the same county . He came to Missouri in company
with his father and on the 19th of July , 1837, reached the watermill
upon Perche, at Gillaspy's bridge . He shortly afterwards moved to
the farm where he lived the rest of his life . He was without means.
when he arrived in Boone county , but by hard work and dogged per
serverance he soon had a farm of his own . His brother, Hamilton J.
Hultz , had come out to Missouri the year before . He is now a prom
inent physician of Louisville , Kentucky. C. P. Hultz was a great
reader and kept his mind well stored with literary “ good things .
Though no politician , he was a ready and fluent speaker upon the cur
rent topics of the day . He worked his way up from a poor boy and at
his death left each of his children a handsome property . He farmed
and traded in stock generally . He died November 12th , 1878 , and
his wife died June 25th , 1876. She was a member of the Missionary
Baptist church at Bethel . They left four children none of whom are
married and are all living in this county. Marshal J. is living upon the
northeast quarter of section thirty -four, township forty -eight and
range thirteen ; Manlius E. is living upon the southeast quarter of
section nine , township forty -eight and range thirteen . Edgar M.
and Virginia S. still live upon the old homestead . Manlius E., our
subject, was born in Boone county, December 10th , 1849. He
lived upon the old home-place until the spring of 1882, when he
moved to his present home. He was educated at the University
going until he reached the last year of the course , when he went
one year to the Medical Department. He has a fine farm of four
hundred acres, and is building a handsome residence .
DANIEL WEBSTER HUNT.
Mr. Hunt was born in Boone county , Missouri, May 16th , 1841, and
is the son of Linnæus and Rebecca ( Brushwood ) Hunt. He received
a good common school education , and grew to manhood in his native
county . During the war he travelled in New Mexico , Colorado , Ne
braska and Iowa . He returned to Boone county when the war closed ,
and went to farming, and has continued in the business ever since .
He was married February 13th , 1879 , to Miss Kate , daughter of Solo
mon and Pernecia ( Collett ) Stickell. She was born in Troy, Lincoln
county , Missouri. Her father was a native of Maryland, and her
mother was born and reared in Missouri. Mr. and Mrs. Hunt have
two children , both living, Nellie Stickell and Robert . Mrs. Hunt is a
member of the Christian Church at Rocheport , and Mr. Hunt is a
Mason , holding his membership at Rocheport. He lives on the north
west quarter of section thirty -six , township forty -eight and range
fourteen . He is a very clever gentleman, and his house is noted
for old -time hospitality .
WILLIAM BURCH HUNT .
W. B. Hunt was born in Boone county , Missouri, September 18th ,

1831. He is the son of Linnæus and Rebecca ( Brushwood ) Hunt , who
were born , reared and married in Fluvanna county , Virginia . They
came to Missouri in 1821. Wm . B. was educated at the common
schools in his father's neighborhood , and grew to manhood upon the
place where he was born . In 1850 he and his father went to Califor
nia , where his father died in 1851. He was married in 1855 , in Boone
county , Missouri, to Mary Anu , daughter of Benjamin Conley . By
this union they have had six children , five living and one dead . M.
Ella married John H. Alsop , of New Franklin , Howard county ; Ben
jamin B.; Laura F. married to John F. Wilhite, near Rocheport ;
Linnæus L., Sanford Conley and Wm . B. (dead ). Mr. Hunt has been
engaged in farming all his life , save the four years he spent in Cali
fornia in mining . He has been until recently the largest wheat
grower in the county , and in 1882 made the largest yield . He has a
splendid farm , handsomely kept , and showing unmistakable signs of
thrift and culture. He raises corn , wheat and hogs, making, how
ever , a specialty of wheat . He has sown the same piece of land in
wheat for fourteen years , the last crop averaging twenty -seven and
one-half bushels to the acre. Mr. Hunt is one of Boone's represent
ative men , and one whom all respect .
MALCOM DUANE LEWIS , M. D.
Dr. Lewis was born near Glasgow , in Howard county , Missouri,

July 24th , 1846. He is the second of three sons of John L. and
Mary E. Lewis, who moved to a place near Rocheport, in Boone
county , in 1851, and located in Rocheport in 1853. In that town
Malcom D. was reared , and acquired the rudiments of his education .
His education was completed at the University at Columbia , and he
began life for himself by clerking in the dry goods house of Clayton
& Wilcox , in Rocheport . In 1865 the firm moved to Omaha , Dr.
Lewis going with them . He soon , however, returned to Rocheport
on account of ill health . Subsequently he went to St. Louis, and was
employed in the notion house of Gill & Murphy. Returning to Boone
county in 1867, he clerked for two different houses in Columbia , which
was about all the business he did till he began to study for his pro
fession . In 1872 , he commenced to read medicine under Dr. A. W.
McAlester , Professor of Surgery , etc., in the University . Entering

the medical department of that school, he applied himself closely to

his studies , and graduated with the degree of. M.D., in June, 1875 .
He first located for the practice at Woodlandville , this county , where
he remained till 1880 , when he removed to Rocheport and established
himself there . In 1882, Dr. E. T. Bramlett became associated with
Dr. Lewis, and they have a good and growing practice in several
counties whose boundaries approach near Rocheport. Dr. Lewis is a
member of Boone lodge, No. 121, I. 0. 0. F :, of Rocheport.
WILLIAM A. LIENTZ
Is the son of Montgomery P. Lientz , and is the oldest child and

only son . He was born on the old homestead , four miles from Roche
port, March 30th , 1848. He was reared at his birth place , and
continued to live with his parents till he was twenty -two years old .
The foundations of his education were laid in the country schools ,
he attending in early boyhood at Walnut Grove Academy . Subse
quently , he attended Union Academy, in Pennsylvania . He completed
his course , however at the State University at Columbia , graduating
from that institution in the class of 1868. He carried off two honors
at that time, having been chosen by his class to deliver the salutatory
in Latin , and also winning the Stephens prize -medal as the best orator
in the contest for thatmedal. (See history of the University ) . In
1869, he began reading law in Columbia , under Col. J. R. Shields,
but the condition of his health forced him to abandon the law . Octo
ber 27th , 1870, he married Miss Margaret S., daughter of John L.

Hickınan , Sr., of Boone county . She had graduated in Stephens
college, Columbia , in the class of 1869. Soon after his mariage, Mr.
Lientz , thinking an agricultural life would be conducive to his good
health , moved on to a farm that he had purchased five miles west of
Columbia . He lived on that place till 1880 , when he sold out and
bought the farm where he resides at this writing , three miles north
east of Rocheport . The place contains two hundred and sixteen
acres , and is chiefly devoted to stock raising especially that of sheep .
Mr. Lientz has four children , named John M., William A., Jr. ,
Beverly Price , and Roger H. Himself and wife both belong to the
Presbyterian church of Columbia .
MONTGOMERY P. LIENTZ .
The gentleman whose name heads this sketch was born in Nash
ville , Tennessee , October 22, 1815. · His parents were William and
Mary Lientz , who came to this State and county in November , 1819 ,
and settled four miles northeast of Rocheport, where Montgomery
was raised . He continued to reside with his parents after corning of
age, and when they became old and infirin , he took the entire man
agement of the farm , and thus eased them of their burden , caring for
them till their death like a true and faithful son . The father died in
1849, aged seventy -five and the mother in 1859 , at the same advanced
age . Mr. Lientz has been three times married . First , in 1844, he
married Miss Calphurnia Wetmore , of St. Louis. This lady died in
1849, and two years later , he was wedded to Miss Olivia W. McClure ,
daughter of Dr. William McClure ,of Thrall's prairie . She died in 1856 .
Mr. Lientz's present wife was a widow lady – Mrs. Ann E. Whittaker ,
of Virginia . He bas four children . William A. Lientz , who gradu
ated from the University of Missouri in the class of 1868, is a son of
his first wife . Annie O., wife of D. W. McQuitty , is a child of the
second marriage . Ella R., wife of Harry McCullough , of Howard
county , and Blanche S. (unmarried ), are the other two. Mr. Lientz
was in the Mormon war, and served under Capt. John Ellis. In May ,
1846 , he enlisted for the Mexican war in Company F , First regiment
Missonri volunteers , and served during the war under Capt . Parsons
and Col. A.W. Doniphan . Returning home at the close of that war ,
he continued to pursue the arts of peace , and enjoy pastoral life on
the old homestead till 1881, when he moved into Howard county . His
father's old home was for many years a stopping place for travellers ,
and many weary tourists there enjoyed the hospitalities of this gen
uine Southern family . Among the celebrities who stopped at this
place , were Col. Thos. H. Benton , Washington Irving, Gov. John
Miller and Supreme Judges M.McGirk and George Tompkins , the
latter of whom married into the Lientz family . Mr. L., belongs to
the Presbyterian church , and his wife to the Monnt Zion Baptist
church of Howard county. He is a ruling elder in his church , and
labors to advance the cause of Christ's kingdom on earth .
ROBERT GILBERT LYELL
Was born at Rochester , New York , in the month of April , 1817.

When he was two years old , his father moved with his family to a
farm two miles from Rochester , and Robert was reared to agricultural
pursuits. His education was acquired in the common schools and at
Monroe High School at Henrietta in Monroe county , New York . He
began teaching in the public schools at nineteen years old , and later
MI Licata
in life worked at the carpenter's trade, which was his father's vocation ,
in addition to farming. In 1840 he came to Boone county , Missouri,
and began teaching in the public schools , following it for some six or
seven years . He was first married December 27 , 1842, to Miss
Emilia M. Bishop , of Thrall's Prairie. She died at Harrisburg , this
county , February 9 , 1875, having borne five children . Two of these ,
Alice G., wife of James A. Chambers , of Rocheport , and Robert L.,
of Marshall, Missouri, still survive . He was a second timemarried
May 9th , 1876 , to Mrs. Mary J. Rawlings , of Rocheport. In the
spring of 1849, Mr. Lyell went to California , and with four com
rades , kept a boarding “ ranche," and also worked the mines on Deer
Creek , near the forks of Yuba River . On his return from California
he settled in Rocheport , where he resided till 1871, when he and
family moved to Harrisburg , where he was engaged for some time in
merchandising , and was also fortunate . He was twice commissioned
a notary public for Boone county by the Governor . In 1877 he
moved back to Rocheport, where he resides at this writing. From
1858 to '79 , he occasionally worked at the carpenter's trade and as
an undertaker , working at times , after the war, as many as from six
to nine men . In May, 1862, Mr. Lyell enlisted in the sixty -first regi
ment E. M. M., Col. Douglass commanding . Soon after he was
commissioned quartermaster, with rank of captain , by Gov. Gamble.
He served in that capacity till the fall of 1862, when part of his
regiment was annexed to parts of other regiments and formed into
the First Provisional Regiment of M.M., in which he served till the
officers and men were relieved from duty by order of the Governor , in
1864 . In August, 1864 , he was commissioned Brigade Q. M., with
rank of major , under Gen. J. B. Douglass , and thus continued till his
final discharge from service by order of Acting Governor Hall. Mr.
Lyell has served as magistrate of Missouri township , both by appoint
ment and election , and is at this writing deputy post-master at
Rocheport, having been appointed in 1881, by Mrs. Susan M. Slade,
post-mistress.
JAMES HORRY LOWREY .
The subject of this sketch is the second of three living sons of

James Simpson and Nancy Lowrey , who came to Missouri in 1819 ,
settling in what was then known as Howard county , near Walnut
Grove church , and afterwards permanently on a farm located on the
State road between Rocheport and Columbia , five and one-half miles
66
from the latter place . It was on this farm that James H. Lowrey was
born , October 14 , 1829. He remained with his parents until he
attained his majority . In 1850 he made an overland journey to Cali
fornia , where he followed freighting from Stockton to various mines ,
continuing this business until the spring of 1853 , when he returned
homeby way of Panama and New Orleans. He returned to California
the same year, taking a drove of stock to Stockton , which he sold ,

returning overland to his home in 1854. In the fall of that year he
purchased a farm in Johnson county , where he resided until 1861. He
was married March 1st, 1855 , to Miss Mary J. , daughter of John and
Jane Maxwell, of Boone county . In 1861 he enlisted in Capt . Har
vey McKinney's company and regiment in which he served until 1862,
when he returned home and brought his family to Boone county .
While bere he was arrested by Federal soldiers and imprisoned in
Columbia for several months. Having taken the oath of allegiance
and given bond , he was set at liberty and allowed to remain at bis
home in this county . In 1864 he went to Texas , where he again
joined the Confederate army and was made second Lieutenant of Com
pany K , Col. Williams's regiment, Shelby's brigade, remaining with
this command until the close of the war , June 16th , 1865 , when he
returned to Boone county and resumed farming. In 1867 he sold his
farm in Johnson county and removed to Boone, buying the farm upon
which he now resides containing 430 acres . In 1879 he went to
Montana Territory , taking with him a car load of stock which he sold
to good advantages. Mr. Lowrey has eleven children , eight daughters
and three sons, all of whom are living. He is a member of the
Rocheport lodge of A. F. and A. M.
MILTON HUFF LOWREY ..
Milton Huff Lowrey , son of Milton and Martha A. ( Hurst) Low

rey , was born in Missouri township , near the old Hunt farm , March
11th , 1847. In early life he attended the public schools , finishing his
education at the Missouri State University . His father died when he
was an infant. He remained on the farm with his mother until he was
sixteen years old , when he began to work for himself. He made an :

overland trip to California where he remained for four years, spend
ing most of the time farming. In 1868 he returned to Boone county
and purchased a farm near his birthplace . He worked this place
until 1871, when he purchased the farm upon which he now lives, con
taining 160 acres , situated near Midway. May 26th , 1874 , he mar
ried Miss Luella Bedford, of near Midway , by whom he has four sons :
Claude, Bedford , Lenious and an infant not yet named .
FRANCIS MARION LOWREY .
Hon . Francis Marion Lowrey , farmer and stock -raiser, is the eldest
of the three living sons of James S. and Nancy Lowrey , old pioneer
settlers of Boone county , who came to Missouri in 1818 and settled
on a farm near Walnut Grove church , in 1819. In 1826 they settled
the old Lowrey homestead , five and one-half miles east of Rocheport ,
on the old Columbia and Rocheport road , where the subject of this
sketch was born , October 20th , 1827. There were no public schools
in his neighborhood during his minority , hence he was compelled to
educate himself by hard study and close application . He remained
with his parents until he was twenty - one years old , when he com
menced working for himself. In 1849 he went to California , where
he worked successfully in the mines until 1851. In 1853 he returned
to that State in company with his brothers , James H. and Benjamin
F., taking out a drove of stock which they disposed of at Stockton
and San Francisco , where he and his brother Benjamin remained and
dealt in stock until 1855 , when they returned together and rented the
old homestead where they farmed until 1857, wben he purchased a
stock farm in Johnson county , Missouri, which he cultivated until the
breaking out of the war , in 1861. Mr. Lowrey enlisted in McCown's
company and regiment, Confederate army, where he served for six
months. For the next four months he served in Capt. Branaugh's
company. In the spring of 1862 he was elected captain by Company
F , of the 16th Regiment of Missouri Infantry , serving until the fall
of 1862, when he resigned and returned to Missouri for the purpose
of recruiting a cavalry regiment. In the month of December follow
ing, while recruiting , he was captured by the Federal soldiers and
imprisoned for a few weeks in the State University at Columbia . From
there he was taken to St. Louis and placed in the Gratiot Street
prison until July , 1863 , when he was sent to Alton , Illinois , where he
remained a prisoner until the spring of 1865. The Alton prison was
vacated soon after the assassination of President Lincoln , and he was
once more taken to the Gratiot Street prison , St. Louis , where he
remained until July , 1865 , when he was released on taking the oath ,
He came home and spent the next year in Boone and Lafayette, going
by steamboat and stage to Diamond City , Montana , in 1866. He
followed mining until 1870 , when he was elected a member of the

Montana legislature from Jefferson county . In 1872 he returned to
Boone county and purchased theffarm on which he now resides. This
farm contains 240 acres . Mr. Lowrey has up to this date ( 1882 )
remained a bachelor . He is a member of the Rocheport Lodge, A.
F. and A. M., and a member of Columbia Chapter No. 18 , R. A. M.
SAMUEL WALLACE MAXWELL .
Samuel Wallace Maxwell was born in Madison county , Kentucky ,

May 26th , 1826. He is the son of John and Jane Maxwell, who came
to Boone county in 1832 and settled on the farm now owned by F.
M.Lowrey , near Midway, where the subject of this sketch was raised
and lived until attaining his majority . In 1850 he went overland to
California , where he followed mining in several places until 1852 .
Having been successful in his labors he returned home by way of
Panama and New Orleans. He served six months in the Enrolled
MissouriMilitia , under Captain Tyre Harris , of Col. J. B. Douglass'
regiment. He has been married three times . His first wife was Miss
Sallie A. Boggs, of Boone county , whom he married , April 22d , 1852.
Four children were born of this marriage , Janies O. and Johu W.,
both of Oregon , and Amanda and Charles C., still living at home. He
married his second wife , Miss Lucy J. Croswhite , of Boone county ,
October 30th , 1871. She died October 30th , 1874. He married his
third wife, Mrs. Rosa Noe, February 17th , 1876. Himself and wife
are members of Sugar Creek Baptist church .
NEWMAN THOMKINS MITCHELL , FATHER AND SON .
Newman T. Mitchell, Sr., is one of the few now living who can of
right class themselves among the pioneers of Boone county . He was
born near Dumfries , Prince William county , Virginia , March 12th ,
1807. His parents removed in 1817 to Madison county , Kentucky,
and a few years later to Franklin county . He reinained with his par
ents until he was eighteen years old , attending in the meantime such
schools as were within his reach . Wishing to educate him for a pro
fession , his father proposed sending him to college, but the young
man having no predilection that way , declined the offer. His father
then gave him permission to do for himself in his own way , and he ac
cordingly entered the boot and shoe store of Daniel Bell, of Wood
ford county , Kentucky. He was employed to keep the books of the
establishment, and remained long enough to learn the trade , when he
returned home. He and his brother now took charge of the homestead
devoting their time to farming and trading in stock . In 1827 he went
to Frankfort, Kentucky, where he was employed by Frank Blair , Sr.,
as superintendent or overseer , remaining in this business one year .
In the spring of 1828 he came to Missouri with his father and settled
in Howard county . On the 4th of September , following , he was mar
ried to Miss Priscilla Hughes. He came to Boone county soon after
his marriage and settled on a tract of land upon which he now
lives . His first wife having died , August 22d , 1856 , Mr. Mitchell
was again married , December 10th , 1857 to Miss Kitty Slack , of
Boone county , by whom he has two children , Pearl and Earnest. By
his first wife he had four children : Elizabeth , wife of Sidney Den
ham , deceased ; Newman Tompkins, Jr.; Cordelia , wife of S. L.
Wilhite , and William J. , all of whom are living in Boone county .
Mr. Mitchell has been a member of Walnut Grove Baptist church
for sixty years, and has served as deacon for forty -five years. His
wife has been a member of the same church for twenty -five years .
His first wife was one of the original members of Walnut Grove
church .
Newman T. Mitchell, Jr., was born near Rocheport , Boone county ,
Missouri, September 1st, 1832. He is the son of Newman and Pris
cilla ( Hughes ) Mitchell. He was educated at the common schools
of the neighborhood, and commenced business for himself at the age
of twenty , though still living with his parents. In 1852 his father
proposed sending him to the Missouri State University , but he pre
fered remaining on the farm at a salary . From 1853 to 1857 he
worked his father's farm on the shares . He was married , October
6th , 1856 , to Miss Hannah , daughter of Porter Jackman , of Howard

county , Missouri. · The year following he moved to a tract of land
given him by his father, which formed the nucleus of the farm he now
owns, consisting of four hundred acres . In 1866 he became one of
the proprietors of the Columbia and Rocheport rock road . He has
seven children . John T. is cashier of the Centralia , Missouri, bank ,
and Porter J. is a practicing physician , being a graduate of the Mis

souri Medical College, St. Louis. Newman T., William M., Carter
W., Exie and Orie are living with their parents. Himself and wife are
members of the Baptist church at WalnutGrove , of which he has been
deacon for twelve years. He has also filled the position of superin
tendent of Sunday school, at intervals, for fourteen years . During
1879 he was appointed a member of the executive board of State mis
sions by the general association , which position he still holds. He is

also one of the curators of Stephens Female College, Columbia , Mis
souri, having been appointed such by the State association in 1880.
WILLIAM JEREMIAH MITCHELL .
The subject of this sketch was born in Boone county , Missouri,

December 7 , 1840. He was raised on a farm , four miles northeast
of Rocheport, and educated at the Walnut Grove school house . He
is the son of Newman Mitchell, Sr. , one of the pioneer settlers of
Boone county . When twenty -one years old he began working on a
farm owned by his father . This place was given to him in 1867, and
in 1874 he exchanged it for a farm in the same vicinity , and in 1876
exchanged this for the place he now occupies, one and one-half miles
east of Walnut Grove church . His farm contains one hundred and
thirty acres . He is actively engaged in farming and stock raising .
During the years intervening between 1862 and 1872 , he travelled ex
tensively in Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska and Colorado . He is a member
of the Walnut Grove Baptist church , and has been since 1864 .
JAMES HARVEY M'GHEE .
James H. McGhee , son of Wyatt and Jane R.McGhee , was born

in Washington county , Virginia, near Seven Mile Ford , July 4 , 1818 .
In 1824 he came with his parents to Missouri, and settled near what is
now known as Walnut Grove church , on the Rocheport and Columbia
rock road . , He remained with his parents until 1839, when he was
married , January 29th , to Mary , daughter of Abram Funk , of Boone
county . He then moved on to a farm in the Perche bottom , belong
ing to his father, situated near his present home, which was given to
him by his father. In 1859 Mr. McGhee made a trip to Pike's Peak
in questof gold , reports of rich diggings having reached Missouri from
that region . Finding none he returned home, remaining only two
weeks in the mountains . In 1838 he was commissioned by the gov
ernor an officer in the State militia . The troops were called out to
put down the Mormon insurrection , and Mr. McGhee , among others,
responded promptly to the call, and remained under arms until the .
difficulty was settled . In 1836 , he assisted the government survey
ing party , under William Shields, of Boone county , while surveying
the southwestern portion of this State . During the late war Mr. Mc
Ghee was an earnest , out -spoken friend of the South , and suffered
seaerely for his advocacy of Southern principles. Hewas early iden
HISTORY OF BOONE COUNTY : 1047
tified with the South , having been deputized to enroll the militia of
Missouri township . In 1863 he was arrested by the United States
troops, on the charge of giving aid and comfort to Confederate sol
diers. He was first imprisoned at Columbia , then taken to St. Louis,
and finally to Richmond, Virginia , to be exchanged , but being a citi
zen he could not be disposed of in this way. He was finally dis
charged , but as he was returning home he was arrested at St. Louis,
and made to give a bond of $2,000 before he was allowed his freedom .
He has five children , Mary Jane, wife of James S. Langdon ,of Texas ;
James W., of Columbia , Mary Ellen , wife of Melvin P. McGhee , of
Leadville , Colorado ; Henry A., of Boone ; and William Wallace, of
Columbia , Missouri. Mr. and Mrs. McGhee are members of the
Locust Grove Methodist church .
WILLARD J. M'QUITTY ,
The genial editor and proprietor of the Rocheport Commercial, is

the oldest son of Thomas F.and Elizabeth McQuitty , and was born
on a farm in Boone county , near Columbia , September 15 , 1857.
When he was thirteen years old his parents moved to Columbia , and
there Willard J. was educated , attending the University till his eight
eenth year. He then began learning the printer's trade with Ed . W.
Stephens, in the office of the Columbia Herald . Soon mastering the
mysteries of the “ typo's ” profession , he was made foreman of the
Herald establishment, which position he held for five years. In
April, 1879 , Mr. McQuitty and his brother , James E., purchased the
Rocheport Commercial, a Democratic paper in the above town , and a
few months later Willard J.bought out the brother's interest, making
him the sole manager. He has continued to publish that journal
ever since, and is the fifth man who has edited it, and, so far, the only
one who seems to have made it a success. Mr. McQuitty was mar
ried Dec. 25, 1881, to Miss Maggie Hines, daughter of J. H. Hines , of

Joplin ,Mo. Mr. McQ . has always been a Democrat, and runs his paper
in the interest of that great party . He is a member of theMissouri Press
Association , and his youth and ambition , combined with education
and energy , will certainly place him in the ranks of successful jour
nalists, should he continue that most worthy vocation .
DAVID W. M'QUITTY
Is also a native of Boone county , and was born near Rocheport , Feb
ruary 10 , 1853 . His parents were David and Susan McQuitty , old
residents of Boone . He continued to live with his parents on the
farm till in his twentieth year , and there obtained the rudiments of
his education . Subsequently he attended Mount Pleasant College, at
Huntsville , Randolph county , Missouri, and was a student of that
school for three years. When ready to begin life for himself, Mr.
McQuitty purchased a farm of 240 acres, three and one half miles
northeast of Rocheport, which he still owns and operates . In addi
tion to the ordinary routine of farming and stock - raising, Mr. McQ .
has made a speciality of fine sheep breeding , chiefly the Spanish
merino. His object in this was not alone to improve his own stock
and derive a profit therefrom , but was actuated by the worthy motive
of having his neighbors get the benefit of the same. In the winter
of 1882 he imported a flock of the Robinson - Atwood blood from Ver
mont. These breeders are recorded in the Vermont Stock Register ,
and their average yield of fleece is, formales 16 lbs ., for females 15 lbs.
In December , 1873, Mr. McQuitty was united in marriage to Miss
Annie O. Lientz, daughter of Montgomery Lientz , Esq . They have
two children , Montgomery L., and Harry W. Mr. McQ . is a mem-.
ber of the Walnut Grove Baptist church , and is an exemplary citizen
and kind neighbor .
JAMES AUGUSTUS M'QUITTY .
The subject of this sketch was born in Perche township , Boone.

county , Missouri, December 1, 1830. He is the son of G. W.
McQuitty , one of the successful pioneer farmers of Boone county .
It was through the enterprise and industry of such men as G. W.
McQuitty that Boone county received an impetus which placed it far :
ahead of all the neighboring counties, a position it still holds in point
of stability , refinement and culture , and but for superior railroad
facilities possessed by other counties , it would have distanced all its
competitors in wealth and enterprise . The father of James A.
McQuitty came to Boone county in 1810 . The subject of this sketch
remained on his father's farm until 1849, when he went to California .
Heworked in the mines for several years, returning to Boone county
in 1853. He was successful in mining , having accumulated sufficient
money to purchase the farm upon which he now resides, containing
353 acres . In 1864 he enlisted in Capt . John Maxwell's company,
Williams's regiment, Shelby's brigade , Confederate cavalry , remaining
with this command until the close of the war , when he returned home
and resumed the active duties of life . Mr. McQuitty was married
June 13 , 1851, to Miss Dicie Emma, daughter of Solomon Barnett,
- -
of Howard county . There were seven children by this marriage :

Julia A., wife of William Hart , of Centralia , Missouri ; and John L.,
Lilly , May, Dora B., Joel M., James M.and George B., yet remain
ing at home. Mrs. McQuitty died May 12 , 1879. Mr. McQuitty is
a member of the Walnut Grove Baptist church , and has been since
1853 . He is also a member of the Rocheport lodge of A. F. and A.
M. At the time of her death Mrs. McQuitty was also a member of
the Walnut Grove church .
THOMAS FIELDING M'QUITTY .
Thomas F. McQuitty was born near Thrall's Prairie , now known

as the Model Farm , May 3 , 1833, where he lived until he was ten
years old , when , his parents removed to the farm now owned by James
A. McQuitty . Thomas grew to manhood on this farm , attending the
common schools and availing himself of every opportunity of procur
ing an education . He began life for himself as a farmer, renting the
land he cultivated . In 1870 he removed to Columbia , where he
worked at the carpenter's trade until 1882 , when he purchased and
removed to the farm upon which he now lives, known as the old Joel
White farm , containing 160 acres . Mr. McQuitty was married Octo
ber 18 , 1855 , to Miss Elizabeth , daughter of Joel and Elizabeth Wil
hite , of Boone county . They have eight living children . The oldest
son , Willard G., is editor and proprietor of the Rocheport Commer
cial . The second son , James E., is foreman of the Columbia , Mis
souri, Herald office . The other children are at home with their
parents . Mr. and Mrs. McQuitty , and the four oldest of their chil
dren , are members of the Baptist church at Columbia . Mr. Mc
Quitty was deputy marshal of Columbia in 1881. In 1864–5 he was
a soldier in the Confederate army, being a member of Capt . John
Maxwell's company, Williams's regiment, Shelby's brigade. His com
mand surrendered at Alexandria , Louisiana, in the spring of 1865,
when he returned home and resumed the active duties of life . He is
a firm , resolute, hard -working man , whose principal aim in life has
heen to raise , educate and prepare his children for the active duties
and responsibilities of life .
ALEXANDER ROBINSON NICHOLS .
Alexander Robinson Nichols was born in Missouri township , on the

Rocky Fork , a tributary of the Perche , May 25 , 1833. When quite
young he removed with his parents to a farm in the vicinity of Colum
bia , where his father died . When ten years old , his mother removed
with her family to Buchanan county , Missouri, where they lived and
cultivated a farm until 1856. He began to do for himself when fif
teen years old , but contributed liberally of his earnings toward the
support of his widowed 'mother and such members of the family as
were too young to provide for their own wants. His mother was ever
an object of earnest and tender solicitude up to the day of her death in

1874. From 1856 to 1860 heworked at farming in various places. He
finally settled upon the farm he now occupies. Mr. Nichols was mar
ried April 12 , 1860 , to Miss Angeline, daughter of Winston Via , who
came to Boone county in 1832, and bought and improved the farm
upon which the subject of this sketch now resides, known as the old
Winston Via place . They have but one child , Annie , who is still at
home with her parents . Mr. Nichols is one of the most substantial
farmers in his section of the country . All the affairs of life seem
tending towards his prosperity and happiness , and justly , for his has
been a busy , enterprising and exemplary life .
ELVIN JEFFERSON NICHOLS .
E. J. Nichols , farmer and stocktrader , was born in Barren county ,

Kentucky, April 29, 1825 . He came to Boone county , Missouri,
with his parents, arriving at their destination in the month of Decem
ber , 1829. They settled five miles northwest of Columbia on a small
tributary of the Perche, called the Rocky Fork , where the subject of
this sketch grew to manhood . The little education he received was
obtained at subscription schools which were attended at long intervals .
The elder Nichols being a carpenter , Elvin was brought up to that
trade, and assisted his father in the shop when not working on the
farm . He remained with his parents until he had attained his major
ity , when he began to work for himself . March 25 , 1845 , he was
married to Miss Polly Ann, daughter of James and Nancy Hawkins ,
pioneer settlers of Boone county . After his marriage , Mr. Nichols
settled on the farm he now occupies , in the northern part of Missouri
township , containing 450 acres. In 1850 he made an overland trip
to California , where he remained one year working in the mines. He
then took passage on a sail vessel for home. While off the coast of
Lower California , the vessel was caught in a fierce western gale and
was blown 1,500 miles to sea , prolonging the voyage sixty -seven
days. There were 370 passengers , necessitating a short allowance of
food and water for many days. The portion allowed to each individ
Darul. Poppy
ual finally dwindled to one pint of water and two crackers once in
twenty -four hours. The tropical heat was. severe and many sickened
and died of fever ere they reached port. Arriving at Panama, he and
several others attempted to walk to Chagres , but gave out on the way .
They were compelled to purchase a mule ere they reached their des
tination . From Chagres he sailed for New Orleans in a steamer , ar
riving home in April, 1851. From 1860 to 1872 , Mr. Nichols bought
and shipped stock to eastern markets, his shipping points being Con
cordia , Columbia and Sturgeon . In 1873 he bought and fed a herd
of cattle in Saline county , and in 1878 he handled over 200,000
pounds of pork which he sold in eastern markets . In 1864 he was
drafted as a soldier in the Union army ,but hired a substitute. During
the same year he was arrested on a charge of giving aid and comfort
to Bill Anderson's guerrillas , and wastaken to Macon City and put in
prison . Hesoon gave bail and was set at liberty . He has eight chil
dren . The oldest son , William Hite , is a Baptist minister , a graduate of
the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary at Louisville , Kentucky ;
John J. ; Nancy A., wife of Henry Naylor ; George Martin , a medical
student of the State University ; Rhoanna, wife of Samuel Morris ;
Eddie E., Robert E. L. and Overton . Mr. Nichols and his wife and
their children are members of the Baptist Church .
JUDGE DAVID PIPES
Was born in Washington (now Boyle ) county, Kentucky, near the

city of Danville , March 31, 1811 . His parents moved to Missouri
when he was six years old , and settled in Boone county , then a part of
Howard . (See chapter on early boundaries . ] Here he resided with his
father's family and worked on the farm till he was 18 years old . Then
he began learning the gunsmith's trade with John G. Phillips , in the
locality of his father's residence, and worked with his “ boss " for three
years. He then established a shop of his own in Howard county, in
1831 . The Black Hawk war broke out soon afterwards , and Mr.
Pipes enlisted for its suppression and served till the close in
the battalion under" Maj. John B. Clark . Returning to Howard
county , he resumed his trade, and also purchased a small farm which
he operated in addition to his shop work . When the Mormon war
came on , he again volunteered for service, and was in a short time
orderly " in the company commanded by Capt . Jared Robinson .
Returning once more to his shop and farm , he drove those peaceful
vocations till the gold fever seized him in 1850. He crossed the plains
to California , where after mining a short time at Placerville, he pro

ceeded to Stockton , where he purchased a team and engaged in the
then lucrative vocation of freighting until March , 1851, when he came
home. He sold his property in Howard in 1852, and moved into
Boone county and purchased the farm where he now resides , in Mis
souri township . His homestead contains 350 acres, and he also own's
another 21/2 miles distant from the former . Judge Pipes was married ,
December 23, 1832, to Mrs.Mary Williams, a widow lady of Howard
county . They have three children , George , Charles, and Julia A.,
wife of George W. Drake, of Howard county . Judge Pipes has al
ways been a successful manager in his private affairs , insomuch that
his neighbors and the public were constrained to demand his services
officially . He was appointed justice of the peace by the county court
in 1840,and elected subsequently and retained 9 years. In 1876 , he
was elected associate justice of the county court, and in 1878 was
elected presiding justice , which position he still holds. Judge Pipes
and all his family are members of the Christian church , he being one
of the elders of Big Spring church , in Howard county .
JOHN HUGHES SAMPSON .
John H. Sampson, farmer and stock raiser, was born in Richmond ,

Madison county, Kentucky , April 6 , 1818 . His parents were Richard
and Mary (Watkins) Sampson . He was educated at the Richmond
Seminary . When eighteen years of age his parents removed to Mis
souri and settled near Rocheport, arriving at their destination in the
fall of 1839. The elder Sampson purchased a tractof land containing
360 acres, now known as the Sampson homestead . The son remained
with his parents until 1842, when he married Miss Martha A., daugh
ter of Michael and Martha E. Woods , pioneer settlers of Boone
county ,' having emigrated from Kentucky to Missouri in 1816 . After
his marriage, Mr. Sampson removed to a farm of 126 acres given him
by his father . This was the nucleus of his present estate , to which
he has added 361 acres, making in all 487 acres. He has devoted
most of his life to agricultural pursuits, allowing nothing to interfere

with or impede his efforts in that direction . He has ten children :
Richard Henry , Michael Woods,Mary Watkins, Martha Denney , Mar
garet Francis , Sarah Caroline, John Thomas, Julia Elizabeth , William
Arthur , and Walter Irvin , all under the parental roof. They lost one
son , James D., who died in 1863, aged two years and six months.
Mr. Sampson, wife and four children are members of the Walnut
Grove Baptist church , of which he has been a deacon for fifteen years ,
and clerk for twenty -four years . In 1868 he and seven other enter
prising citizens of Boone county bought up the stock of the Colum
bia and Rocheport turnpike, assuming a debt of $7,000 , which they
have since paid , and have maintained the road ever since .
THOMAS WATKINS SAMPSON .
The subject of this sketch was born in Richmond , Madison county ,

Kentucky , October 6 , 1815. He is the son of Richard and Mary
(Watkins) Sampson . His father was born in Baltimore county , Ma
ryland, July 20 , 1780. Mary , daughter of Absalom Watkins, and
mother of Thomas Watkins Sampson , was born in Albemarle county ,
Virginia , March 15 , 1789. Richard Sampson and Mary Watkins
were married in Richmond , Madison county , Kentucky ,
March 14th , 1811. The subject of this sketch was in rather
feeble health in early manhood , and spent several years travelling in
the Southern States . He spent several winters in New Orleans and
Mobile, and in the fall of 1848 was stricken down with the yellow
fever while in New Orleans . In the spring of 1849, in company with
the distinguished mountaineer , guide, and Indian fighter, Capt. Jim
Kirker , and two Delaware Indian scouts and hunters , he crossed the
plains to Santa Fe, New Mexico , passing through Colorado . From
Santa Fe, they passed through the State of Sonora , old ,Mexico , and
Arizona Territory , by way of the Pima Indian villages and Tucson ;
then across the desert to San Diego , and thence to San Francisco by
sea , returning home in the spring of 1852, after an absence of three
years. This trip proved very beneficial to Mr. Sampson , his health
having been fully restored by the journey . In the spring of 1846 he
assisted in raising a company of volunteer cavalry to join Gen. Price's
army which was to cross the plains from Fort Leavenworth to New
Mexico , at the beginning of the Mexican war . Mr. Sampson was
elected second lieutenant of this company. Owing to the large num
ber of volunteer companies offering their services at the time, his com
pany was too late to be accepted . Mr. Sampson , however , accepted a
situation in the quartermaster's department , at Fort Leavenworth , and
remained there until the close of the season, forwarding trains across
the plains with supplies for Price's army. He then went to New Or
leans, and was in that city when our troops returned from Mexico .
Mr. Sampson seems to have manifested a fondness for military life at
quite an early age . He was commissioned a captain of militia when
but nineteen years old , by Governor James Clark , of Kentucky . At

the age of twenty he received a major's commission in the same regi
ment, signed by Governor James Morehead . He cast his first vote
for Cassius M. Clay for member of the Legislature in 1847. After
coming to Missouri he voted with the Whig party until 1856 ,when he
voted for James Buchanan for President. He was a member of the
Democratic State Convention at Jefferson City in 1860 , and voted for
C. F. Jackson for Governor ; has been a Democrat ever since, but did
not vote for Horace Greeley for President ; voted for Gen.Grant each
time he was elected President. Mr. Sampson was married in Roche
port , November 2 , 1848, by Rev. David Coulter, of the Presbyterian
church , to Miss Lessie B., daughter of G. W. C. and Jane Melody.
Mr. Sampson is a member of the Episcopal church at Columbia ,
Missouri ; Mrs. Sampsou is a member of the Presbyterian church .
Richard Sampson , father of the subject of this sketch , was baptized
in the Episcopalian church , in Baltimore county, Maryland. Mary
Watkins was baptized in the Protestant Episcopal church , in Virginia ,
in 1830. She afterwards united with the Presbyterian church , at Rich
mond , Kentucky , there being no Episcopal church in that place .
Richard Sampson never united with any other church , but remained
as a baptized member of the Episcopal church to the day of his death .
Thomas Watkins Sampson is a farmer , having a comfortable home
near Rocheport . He has a large collection of books, and derives his
greatest pleasure from intellectual pursuits . He is a great reader ,
and spends much of his time with his books .
ROBERT EVANS SCOTT .
Robert Evans Scott was born in Orange county , New York, Novem
ber 20th , 1809. When he was two years old his parents removed to
Monongahela county , Virginia , where he lived with his mother until
1833, his father having died when he was nine years old . Although
making his home with his mother, he began work for himself when
about sixteen years of age . In 1833 he went to Ligonier, Pennsylva
nia , where he followed the occupation of a mill-wright . When not
engaged in this business he worked at the cabinet maker's trade. In
the spring of 1836 he returned to Virginia , going thence to Elkhart ,
Indiana , where he worked at the cabinet maker's trade until 1839 ,
when he came to Missouri. He stopped for a short time at St. Louis,
going from there to Palestine, Cooper county , where he remained
until 1840. In June of that year he removed to Boone county and
settled at Columbia where he and his brother, George W. Scott,

followed the trade ofmill-wrights . In 1840 they built a grist-mill for
Reuben Black on Hinkson creek , one and one- half miles south of
Columbia . In 1841 they built a mill for Northcup & McCarty on
Perche creek , the site being where the Gillaspy bridge now stands.
The same year they built a mill for Hersh & Stapleton on Callaham
creek , seven miles west of Columbia , on what is now known as the
Gen. Hatton place . In the spring of 1842, Mr. Scott went to Farm
ington , Van Buren county , Iowa, where he lived two years. While
there he built a lock on the Des Moines river, near Farmington , for
the Plymouth Mill Company . On leaving Iowa he returned to Boone
county and resumed farming ,working, also, at his trade,until 1849, when
he went over land to Çalifornia . While there he was engaged in
trading, mining and freighting. He also built a hotel for Col. R. W.
Noble and Archie Stephenson, at French Camp, near Stockton. In
1851 he returned home by way of Panama and New Orleans. On
arriving in Boone county he purchased the farm on which he now
lives, consisting of seven hundred acres, three miles west of Colum
bia . During the civilwar he was arrested and imprisoned at Columbia
for about two months on account of his Southern proclivities. He
gave bond and was allowed to return to his home. Mr. Scott was
married in the winter of 1841 to Miss Ann H. Oldham , of Boone
county Seven children were born of this marriage, six of whom are
now living. Warwick M. is a prosperous merchant of Columbia ,
Missouri. Eugene is a farmer , and lives in Boone county . Adolphus
G. is a clerk in a store at Marshall , Missouri ; Frank P., Wallace W.
and Robert Emmett are still living with their parents . One son ,
Lawrence , was killed in the Confederate army, near Springfield , Mis
souri , in 1864 .
CHARLES E. SEXTON .
The subject of this sketch is the son of George and Sarah Sexton
and was born (on the old Sexton farm , eight miles northwest of Co
lumbia , February 3d , 1819. His father was one of the most active
and enterprising citizens of the county , and was widely known through
out this and the western portion of the State , being for twenty -four
years the sole contractor for carrying themailswest of St. Louis. This
was a large business for one man , but George Sexton was always
equal to all his undertakings. He came to Missouri in 1817 and
settled on the farm where the subject of this sketch was born two
years later . When ten years old Charles was put on a mail route ,
carrying between way stations on horseback . He carried the first

mail-bag ever delivered at the post-office in Rocheport, Missouri. As
he grew older he was intrusted with much of his father's business, and
travelled extensively over the various routes between St. Louis and
Leavenworth . In 1835 , when but sixteen years old , he was married
to Miss Elizabeth , daughter of Nicholas Gentry , of Boone county .
In 1839 he began to work in his father's carriage and repairing shops,
situated on the old home place . He remained in the shops until 1845 ,
when he engaged in the milling business , which he has followed , with
slight intermissions, ever since . In 1850 he engaged in the mule
trade with Moses U. Payne, buying in Missouri and selling in the
South . He followed this business , in connection with wagon and car
riage-making , for ten years. His shops were on Thrall's Prairie , now
known as the Model Farm , a portion of which he owned for fifteen years .
In 1860 he resumed saw -milling , which he has followed at various
places in Boone county ever since . He settled at Midway in the fall
of 1880. He has been twice married . His first wife dying in 1839,
he was married , in 1840, to Miss Mary Elizabeth , daughter of Peter
McDonald , of Howard county , by whom he has three children ;Gesse
Green and Millard Payne, of Millersburg , Callaway county , Missouri,
and Sallie J., wife of T. C. Scruggs , of Columbia . By the first mar
riage there were two children , William , of Columbia , and George S. ,
killed in the Coufederate army in 1864. From 1840 to 1850, Mr.
Sexton was a justice of the peace . Mr. aud Mrs. Sexton are members
of the Methodist church at Columbia . He has been an activemember
since 1835 , part ofthe tine acting as steward and class-leader. He is
a member of Twilight lodye, No. 114 , A. F. and A.M. of Columbia .
WILLIAM SLADE , DECEASED .
The deceased gentleman , whose name heads this sketch , was one of
the old settlers of Boone county . He was born in the State of Ver
mont , March 15th , 1810. His parents moved with him to New York ,
when he was quite young, where he lived with them until reaching
manhood . In about 1840 he came to Missouri, and located in Colum
bia , Boone county , where he operated as a mechanic, and assisted in
the building of the University . In 1842, he went to Rocheport, and
there engaged in the grocery business for, probably , two years. He
then sold out, and was for one year engaged in superintending the
erection of a tobacco factory for J. A. Hadwin . Next he was asso
ciated with a man named Collins in the mercantile business , continuing
-
thus for three years , when Collins retired from the firm . T. M.
Smith and Fayette Kirby next came in as partners, and they remained
together till 1850 , when Mr. Slade sold out to go to California . He
spent two years in the gold mines of that State , and on his return was
elected justice of the peace, in which capacity he served several years .
During the war, he was postmaster at Rocheport till 1863, when he
was elected ( or appointed ) representative in the State legislature .
After this, he was again elected justice and also commissioned notary
public , which he held to the time of his death , on the 10th ofMay , 1869.
His works go to show that he was a very ingenious and industrious
man ; and the macadamizing , guttering and crossings made by him in
Rocheport are models of artistic skill. In the fall of 1869, his widow ,
Mrs. S. M. Slade , was appointed postmistress to succeed her husband ,
which position she still holds, transacting the business connected there
with by the aid of her son , William , who is her deputy . Mrs. Slade
received her appointment from Gen. U. S. Grant, then President.
WARREN A. SMITH .
Warren A. Smith was born in Boone county , Missouri, June 8th ,

1837. He is a son of the late Capt. Wm . Smith , a sketch of whose
life may be found in the biography of his youngest son , Fielding
W. Smith . Capt. Smith was the father of nine children , five of
whom are now living. The eldest son is in business in San Francisco ,
California ; William , the next youngest, lives in St. Louis. Oliver,
lives in Mexico ,Missouri. He is the son -in -law of Elder Jaines Barnes,
whose biography may be found in this.volume. Two sons, Fielding
W., and the subject of this sketch , are citizens of Boone county .
Warren A. Smith has spent most of his life on the farm . During
the late war he was engaged in the mercantile business at Quincy , Illi
nois. Subsequent to this, from 1855 to 1859, he was engaged in the
same business at Columbia , Missouri. He was married in 1863 to
MissMary McKinney , daughter of John C.McKinney . They have three
children . Mr. Smith purchased a portion of the “ Model Farm " in
1882 , and has made many improvements since getting possession of
his new home. His farm contains about one thousand acres . In his
home place the “ Model Farm he has about three hundred and
forty acres . A large portion of his land is in grass. He makes a

specialty of short-horn cattle. Mr. Smith is a man of excellent taste
and culture and delights in the beautiful as well as the useful. He is
surrounded with almost every comfort a man could wish for. He is
67
a farmer from choice , and takes the greatest pleasure in all that per
tains to his chosen avocation . He is a member of the Methodist
church at Everett, and contributes liberally to the support of the
Gospel.
HENRY TUMY
Was born in Harrodsburg , Mercer county , Kentucky, August 10 ,

1819. When he was three years old his parents moved to Peters
burg , Kentucky, and from there to Cincinnati, Ohio , when he was
six years old . A year later his father died of yellow fever at New
Orleans, and Henry went with his mother to Dayton , Ohio , where she
died , leaving him alone in the world at the early age of eight years.
He was bound to a tanner named John Kuntz , with whom he lived
six years, learning something of the tanning business. At fourteen
years of age he set in to learn the saddle and harness maker's trades,
at which he has worked ever since . In September , 1842, Mr. Tumy
came to this county and set up in the saddlery and harness business
at Rocheport , and has continued so ever since , except the interrup
tions he was subjected to during the war . At the burning of Roche
port, so frequently mentioned in this volume, he lost heavily in
buildings and goods. Besides , he was, on another occasion , forced
to raise $400 by Bill Anderson and his “ bush wackers ,” which he
borrowed of his neighbors and gave up in ransom for his life . On
the return of peace he resumed his business, and by close attention
thereto has regained his losses , conducting a tannery also in con
nection with his other business . On October 24 , 1844, Mr. Tumy
married Miss Georgia Evans, of Rocheport. They have eight chil
dren : Laura , Sarah , Nannie , Deborah , James , John, Henry and
Frank . The girls are allmarried . The last named reside at home
with their father at this writing. Mr. Tumy is a member of the
Rocheport lodge, No. 67, A. F. and A. M., and of lodge No. 147,
I. 0. G.T.
REV . MERIWEATHER L. A. VIA .
Rev. Meriweather Lewis Arlington Via , farmer and minister, was

born near Charlottesville , Albemarle county , Virginia , August 27th ,
1813. He is the son of Pleasant and Margaret E. Via . Heremained
with his parents until nineteen years of age , when he began doing
for himself as a farm overseer , followiug this occupation until he was
twenty - four years old . In 1837 he engaged in blacksmithing, fol
lowing this business until 1842 , when he sold out and removed to
Missouri. In 1845 he purchased a farm near Everett, in Boone
county , where he remained until 1865 , when he sold out and removed to
Callaway county , Missouri. He remained there four years , returning to
Boone in 1869, settling on the farm where he now lives, near Colum
bia . In addition to farming Mr. Via is a local minister of the Meth
odist Church South . He was licensed to preach in 1851, and was
subsequently ordained a deacon , at Louisiana, Missouri, by Bishop
Pierce , and was made an elder by Bishop Marvin , at Fulton , Missouri.
He was married January 30 , 1832 , to Miss Mary Ann Watson , of
Albemarle county , Virginia , by whom he has four children : William ,
a prosperous physician , whose biography appears elsewhere in this
volume; John U., who is now superintending his father's farm ; Mar
garet V., wife of Wingfield Conley , a farmer, of Missouri township ,
and Meriweather Benjamin , also a practicing physician . He was born
in Albemarle county , Virginia , December, 1839. When he was three
years old his parents came to Missouri and settled in Boone county ,
where he was raised and educated . He remained with his parents un
til he attained his majority , when he commenced teaching in the com
mon schools of Boone county . He also taught penmanship in Boone
and the surrounding counties. In 1873 he began the study of medi
cine , under his brother, W. P. Vja . From 1874 to 1875 , inclusive ,
he attended the lectures at the Missouri State University . In 1876
he attended a course of lectures at the Medical College in St. Louis ,
finally graduating from Keokuk , Iowa, in 1881, when he began the
practice of medicine in Missouri township , making his homewith his
father three and one-half miles southwest of Columbia .
WILLIAM PLEASANT VIA .
William Pleasant Via , M. D., was born in Albermarle county , Vir

ginia , August 12th , 1842. His parents removed to Boone county ,
Missouri, in 1845. He was raised on a farm , attending the common
schools until 1864, when he commenced the study of medicine under
Dr. John M. Shock , of Everett, Boone county , Missouri. In 1866–67
he attended lectures at the Ohio Medical College, Cincinnati. In
1870–71 , he attended medical lectures at Pope's College , St. Louis,
graduating from that institution in March , 1871. After practicing
his profession in various places, and making a tour through the West
ern and Northwestern States , he returned to Boone county in 1877
and resumed his former practice in the vicinity of Midway, at which
place he is permanently located . He has the patronage of a fine dis
trict of country , getting all the practice he can attend to . In addi
tion to his regular practice, he is county physician , having the care

of all patients at the county prison and infirmary. He was married
June 9th , 1877 , to Miss Emma E., daughter of J. H. Ravenscraff, of
Boone county . They have two children , Hugh Breinerd and Guy
Forrest. Dr. Via is a member of Twilight lodge , No. 144 , A. F.
and A.M., Columbia , Missouri . He was a Confederate soldier during
the civil war, having enlisted under Col. Harvey McKinney in 1861,
serving until the winter of 1864.
JOSHUA F. WHITE .
This gentleman , an old settler of Boone county , was born in Win

chester, Frederick county , Virginia , March 27th , 1813 . When he
was nine years old his parents cameto Missouri, and settled one mile
north of Head's Fort , in Howard county . Joshua lived with the
family on the farm , even after he became of age ; and when his father
and mother became old and infirm , he , like à dutiful son , cared for
their comfort and support till the time of their death . His mother
died first, at the age of eighty , in 1851, and his father died in 1858 ,
aged eighty -six . Mr. White fell heir to the homestead , which he
owned till 1860, when he sold it and moved to Rocheport, this county .
Besides being a farmer, his father was master of the cooper's trade,
which Joshua learned also . On coming to Rocheport he set up in
that business , and has continued in it ever since . Mr. White served
in the Black Hawk war, in 1832, as scout under command of Captains
Canowl and Pollard . In 1837 he volunteered for service in the
Florida war under Col. Richard Gentry , and was commissioned cap
tain of his company. He, however, fell sick with a fever , and could
not move with his command , Lieut. Jackson taking command of the
company . On the 25th of October , 1838 , he was married to Miss
Mary Hern , of Boone county , by whom he has at this writing five
living children : Susan F., George W., Ann , Josephine, and Mary.
Mrs. White died June 30th , 1856. Not many of these old pioneers
are left , and the time must speedily come when all that we know of
them will be in vague tradition , unless , indeed , their names should be
mentioned in history . But it is to them that the generations of this
day owe their comfort and prosperity in this land of peace and plenty .
THOMAS WHITTLE .
Mr. Whittle was born in Staffordshire, England , April 24 , 1825 .

In early life he learned the trade of boot and shoe making , at which
he has worked the greater portion of his life , or until 1869 . When
he had attained his majority , or in the year 1846 , he made a tour of
England , visiting some of the principal cities. October 7 , 1847, he
came to America , landing in New York City. This was the first trip
of the vessel in which he sailed ; on her second she was lost . After
travelling through various States of the Union , Mr. Whittle landed
in Columbia , June 6 , 1852. He found it very difficult to obtain a
house in which to do business, owing to the indisposition of the land
lords at that day to rent to newcomers, but in time, he found himself
firmly establisbed , and became one of the county's best and most
respected citizens.
Mr. Whittle engaged in the boot and shoe business, upou his first
settling in Columbia , and steadily pursued his calling, making a full
hand either on the bench , or behind the counter. He always kept
himself employed, and never found time to “ loaf.” By industry ,
economy, and good management, in time he acquired the handsome
competence which he now possesses . He has owned one of the best
farms in Boonejcounty for fourteen years, and on this stands one of
the most handsome and comfortable residences in Central Missouri .
In May, 1882, Mr. Whittle began the erection , on the corner of Ninth
and Broadway, Columbia , of the fine structure known as Whittle's
block , probably the best building of the kind in the city . Mr. Whit
tle's possessions are the product of his own labor and honest enterprise .
He inherited nothing from his father's estate, being the eighth child
of a family of twelve children . In October, 1857, Mr. Whittle mar
ried Miss Mary. Hulen , daughter of John A. Hulen , Esq., of Boone
county. They are the parents of four children , Hannah L., John E.,
Francis L. and Thomas William , all of whom have been educated in
Columbia , at the Christian College and the State University . Mr.
and Mrs. Whittle are both members of the Christian church , and Mr.
Whittle is a member of the Masonic fraternity .
In 1865 Mr. Whittle made a trip to Europe . He crossed the
Atlantic in the ill -fated steamer City of Boston , which was lost on her
next trip , and never heard of. He has made several narrow escapes
from violent deaths by ships and steamboats, very remarkable in their
nature , and worthy of recording. Besides the two already noted , in
1849 he accidently missed a steainer at Pittsburg Pa., which blew up
on the same trip . Afterward , at New Orleans, be missed taking pas
sage for California on the steamship Louisiana , which blew up while
in port. While in Europe , in 1865, Mr. Whittle made the tour of
France , and spent some time in the city of Paris . He came home in
the steamer Louisiana, and on the next trip she was lost .
Mr. Whittle has much to be proud of. A well-spent life ; a com
petence of this world's goods ; an elegant, tasty home; an intelligent ,
cultivated family , appreciative of the valuable and beautiful in life ,
and hosts of merited friends are things of which any man may be
proud, and beyond which nothing need be desired .
BENTON WHITE
Was born near Rocheport, Boone county, Missouri, January 10 ,

1842. When he was ten years old , his parents moved over into
Howard county , settling near the Boone line, five miles northwest of
Rocheport . Here Benton was reared , and learned the trade of black
smith under his father , who was a votary of that craft. At nineteen
years old , he began to do business for himself as a blacksmith and farm
er , which he continued until 1867 . He then opened a general store
at what is known as White's Store, on the old road leading from
Rocheport to Fayette , where he is still in business . In March , 1862 ,
he took in , as a partner, his younger brother , George H., who had been
clerking for Benton since he was a small boy . At this time they
opened a store in Rocheport , one brother taking charge of it, while
the other remained at the old stand . In 1872 a post-office was estab
lished at White's Store , and Benton was appointed postmaster , which
position he still holds . Their business now amounts to $ 20,000 in
sales, annually, though they began on a capital of only $600 . On
September 1 , 1862, Mr. White was married to Miss Susan , daughter
of Ephraim Turner , of Howard county . They have five children :
John, Nannie, Bettie, Samuel R., and May T. Mr. White is a careful
and successful business man , and is held in high esteem by the busi
ness men of Boone and Howard counties, being ever found at his post,
and gradually rising in business prosperity .
JOSEPH WILLIAMSON .
The subject of this sketch is one of the oldest living pioneers of

Boone county . He came to this county with his father , John Wil
liamson , from Virginia , in 1828 , and settled near the Missouri river ,
eight miles southeast of Rocheport. The first year after their arrival
he farmed with his father, but the year following bought a farm of
184 acres , bis father assisting him in the purchase . He was married
December 23, 1829 , to Miss Shelin Brushwood , and commenced the
S
O AN
OT NSC
PH S
John. S. Wilkite
improvement of the farm upon which he lived until 1851, when he re

moved to the farm he now occupies, in the near vicinity of the first
purchase . During the great overflow in 1844 his farm was entirely
flooded , and he lost all that he possessed except the land . Mr. Wil
liamson has , by industry and frugality , accumulated valuable property ,
owning about 500 acres of land . He was once the largest tobacco
grower in the country , having produced as much as 10,000 pounds in
one season . At first he shipped to New Orleans, but afterwards sold
at Rocheport. In 1832 he, in company with L. B. Hunt , built a flat
boat at Rocheport, which they loaded with cattle , tobacco and hemp
for the New Orleans market . While making the voyage down the
Mississippi river, which had overflown its banks, four of the crew ,
who had landed from the boat in an effort to fasten the cable, were
left on the shore . Mr. Williamson went to their rescue in a canoe
which was overturned near the shore. He escaped , but the men on
' the flat, supposing he was lost, went on with the boat . Mr. William
son was compelled to work his passage to St. Louis , where he was
afterwards joined by his friends , who had made a successful voyage
and had plenty of money . Mr. Williamson , before coming to Mis
souri, travelled extensively over the South , and has visited Texas
since settling in Missouri. He has six living children and thirty -one
grandchildren . Himself, wife and children are all members of the
Methodist church .
JOHN 8. WILHITE .
This is another subject who was “ to the manner born .” Mr. Wilhite
is the son of William and Priscilla Wilhite , and was born on Thrall's
prairie , July 26 , 1819. His parents were Kentuckians, who came
here in the pioneer days of Boone county - 1818. John was reared
a farmer in the neighborhood of his birth , and received his education
in the subscription schools of the proverbial “ old log school- house ."
9
On coming of age , he began to work his father's farm “ on shares,
which he continued to do some three years . He then began improv
ing for himself, on a piece of wild land belonging to his father ,
and which the latter subsequently deeded to John . He resided on
that place till 1849, when he purchased the farm where he now re
sides, in Missouri township. In February , 1849, he was married to
Miss Nancy B., daughter of Andrew and Mary C. McQuitty , also
pioneers of old Boone county . The subject of this sketch is de
cidedly a home man , as he was never out of the State but four times
in his life, and then only for short periods. Mr. Wilhite owns a good
farm of 320 acres , which he devotes to general agriculture , but es
pecially to stock growing. He owned some valuable slaves , which
the war freed , and which were his sole dependence as farm hands .
The negroes never left him , however , and continued with their old
master, all but two (who are still with him ).being dead . After the
war , Mr. W. either paid them wages , or gave them a share of the
crop, at their own option . He and wife are both members of the
Walnut Grove Baptist church , of which he has been a member
since 1853, and she since 1842. Over thirty years a member of
the same church ! What a subject is this for the pastoral poet,
who might show them now , as serenely waiting the time when
they shall be called home, to remain forever in a glad , unbroken
congregation , where all joy is worship and all happiness is praise !
ANDREW JACKSON WOOD .
Andrew J. Wood is the son of James R. and Jane ( Ogan )

Wood , pioneer settlers of Boone county , who came from North
Carolina in an early day, and settled on a farm in Missouri town
ship , seven miles southwest of Columbia , where the subject of
this sketch was born , October 17 , 1833. His father having died
in 1849, Mr. Wood took charge of the farm , which , at the
death of his mother in 1863, became his property . The farm
contains 230 acres . He was married June 24 , 1877, to Miss Susan
A. Vanlandingham , of Boone county . She died May 4 , 1879 , leav
ing one child , Addie P.
CHAPTER XXI.
PERCHE TOWNSHIP .
Topography – Remarkable Natural Features — Connor's (or Holton's) Cave - Callaham's

Lick - Sketch of Wm . Callaham - Organization - Early Settlers - The “ Firsts ”
Manslaughter - The “ Blackfoot" Country - Villages. Perchetown, or “ Persia ”
Harrisburg - Everett - Methodist Church — Dripping Spring – Christian Church
Ammon — Germantown — Woodlandville. War Incidents. Fights and Skirmishes-
Killing of Mr. Drake - Guerrilla Diabolism – Killing of Wm . Rumans — Hanging of
Two Federals - Shooting of “ Half-Witted ” Batey - Mr. Dimmitt's Fight with Bush
whackers — Biographies of Old Settlers and Prominent Citizens of Perche Township .
TOPOGRAPHY .
Except Thrall’s prairie , which 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 .
REMARKABLE NATURAL FEATURES CONNOR'S (OR HOLTON'S ) CAVE .
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 this
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 peigh
bors , who erected a small grist-mill at themouth 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 everything 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 tanyard became one of the land
marks 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 di
rectly 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 bluff below Rocheport . They are now indis
tinct. 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 sufficiently large 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 ofthe 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 with
out 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 ofthe 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 num
ber . 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 .
CALLAHAM'S LICK .
This is another of the early landmarks of this section . It is situ

ated 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
Callaham'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 . The earliest 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 naine.
He was, at the time of forming this settlement , in the prime of life , a
large, tall, dark -skinned 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, in
Montgomery county . They settled on the island for protection
against the Indians . Callabam 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 swift of 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 in
to 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 fur
ther . Hewould
Hewould 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 gamehe 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 sub
division of Boone county takes its name, runs through the township
from north to south , the course being a little east of south . In ad
dition 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 , “ Callahan .” 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 addi
tion 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 ofthe “ Model Farm ," and flows southeast in
to the Callaham , about fourmiles above the confluence of that stream
with the Perche. This, and Sexton's Branch , are the only tributa
ries of the Callaham worthy of mention . The name Roche Perche,
or more properly , Roche Perce, is French , and signifies pierced
rock .
EARLY SETTLERS .
The Prairie Fork , Silvers , Squire Schooling and Kincaid settlements

date back as remotely as the most primitive elsewhere in the county .
There were settlements on Prairie Fork as early as 1816 of the
pioneers of this section of Perche township . Silas and Jesse Richard
.son , Daniel and Samuel Hodge, Jerre Biswell, John Stephenson ,
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 Reeder , after whom Reeder's Creek was named, and
Mr. McDaniel. Hugh Silvers settled what is now known as the Stice
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 Bartlett Gentry , Robert and John Barclay, John Corlew , senior ,
and John Corlew , junior , Jonathan Graham , John and Thomas Ander
son , 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
Perchemeeting 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 Isdac Newman were pioneer teachers . One of the first
children boru 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.
The first regular physician was Dr. John W. Roberts , who came
from Virginia and settled in Perche township . He died in 1875 .
The first minister remembered was Rev. James Barnes , a Primitive
Baptist . “ Uncle Jimmy," as he was familiarly called , was one
among the first sheriff's of Boone county . He 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. Rev. William
Douglass was the first Methodist, and Elders John C. McCune 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. Hehad been one of the justices ofthe 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 oc

curred at Perchetown, in which Daniel Coil was the victim and Amos
Barnes the individual who struck the fatal blow . A party had gath
ered at the village store and were drinking pretty freely , and at the
same time discussing a chase in which a number of them had partici
pated . 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, evi
dently , 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 ac
quitted , it being evident that the murder was wholly unintentional.
66 BLACKFOOT. "
Thirty years ago the good people of Perche, a portion of Missouri,

Rocky Fork and Bourbon , resented the sobriquet of “ Blackfoot ” as a
slur at their section of the county , but happily for the impartial his
torian , 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 origin of the name “ Black
foot. " 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 parti
cipated . 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 tradi
tion attributes the origin of the name to a dance which occurred in

the Schooling neighborhood , where the boys and girls danced bare
footed , and bantered each other on the comparative blackness of their
pedal extremities . Gen. S. B. Hatton was the first man to call pub
lic attention to the name, having many years ago published the follow
ing announcement in the Columbia Statesman : “ Weare 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 elec
tion .” Notwithstanding the fact that he had previously represented
the county in the legislature , and was personally very popular , this an
nouncement 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 effect ;, the general's
opponent was elected by six majority .
PEROHE TOWNSHIP VILLAGES.
PERCHETOWN .
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 considerable importance . The town was laid off 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
66 Persia ,” nine and one-ninth acres of land in section eight, township
forty -nine and range thirteen , for which he received ninety-one dollars
and fifty cents . Of same date , Obadiah Babbitt sold to same parties,
fifty -eight acres, both tracts being within the limits of the town, as
shown by the map which is entered of record . It was on both sides
of 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 popu
lation . 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 realize . About the year 1825 , Wilfred Stephens, of Ken
tucky, the father of Benjamin Stephens, of this county , cameto Perche
town 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 primi
tive 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 .
Harrisburg , situated on the northwest quarter of section 11 , town

ship 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
rails. 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 ,
68
but afterwards completed on a line farther north . This proved almost

a death - blow to the ambitious hopes of Harrisburg . With better facil
ities this village would have been a place of no little importance . It
is beautifully located on the divide between the Perche and the Moni
teau , six miles north of the Model Farm , on the main road leading
from Rocheport to Sturgeon . The Callaham , which flows into the
Perche, heads in this vicinity . Prairie Fork , named from Thrall's
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 -office is in Gentry's saddler-shop . Rev. Green Carey , of
near Harrisburg, came to the neighborhood in 1834 , and has preached
for the people since 1836. He was a member of the first church or
ganized in this portion of the county , Bethlehem by name, which he
served for thirty -one years. Hehas joined in marriage more than five
hundred couples. Revs . Thomas Fristoe , Fielding Wilhite and Green
Carey dedicated the last Bethlehem church building.
EVERETT .
This little hamlet , now almost extinct , is situated on section 2 , town

ship 49, range 14. It was laid out in the year 1860 by Charles Sexton , a
son of George Sexton , already mentioned in connection with Perche
town . 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 , man
ufacturing the “ Peeler plows.” Parks started a large tobacco fac
tory , 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 surround
ing 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 containing five acres , the property
of the Methodist denomination , having been deeded to them for church

purposes. The church 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. McAnally , of St. Louis, May 12 , 1860. Since
its dedication the church has been served by R. 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
present membership is sixty - five. When this church was first organ
ized , 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 officialmem
bers 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 rheu
matism and kindred diseases have been cured by the free use of these
waters.
The place contains a store and post -office. The latter was estab
lished June 13, 1873, and Col. Garnett Duncan commissioned post
master . He died in January , 1880 , and February 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
diplomas and engaged in the practice . One has since died ; the other
is still actively and successfully engaged .
The Methodist Church South has an organization of some sixty
members , but as yet no church building. They worship at an arbor
at a point called Red Rock , two miles northwest 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 0 .
White . Some of the original members were John O. White, Jemima
White , James and Paulina Hoffman , 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 Wm . 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 Juve 26 , 1860 , by Elder John
0. White . The pastors of this church have been Elder White , Ste
phen A. Bush , Hockensmith , J. T. Burnham , the latter the
present pastor. Elders Bedford , Chrisman , 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 .
AMMON .
About three miles northwest of Dripping Spring is a country vil

lage 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 impor
tance to the community in which it is situated .
GERMANTOWN .
Old Germantown , situated in section 5 , township 49, range 13 , was

laid 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 flour
ishing 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 .
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. А
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 Gos
line's lane , September 23 , 1864 , is fully described in the general his
tory .
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 !
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 1st of September, 1864 , a man named 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
his 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 Blackfoot ”

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 RUMANS.
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 Wil
liam Rumans, who lived in the neighborhood of Dripping Spring ,
three bushwhackers , Mat. Evans, Sam Rowland and Abe Rumans, the
latter a son of William Rumans, were seen to hurriedly leave the
place . The Federals pursued then and shot Rowland through the
body , but he escaped and afterwards recovered . The Federals re
turned 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 re
volting to humanity and justice .
TWO MEN HUNG .
In the fall of 1864 two Federal soldiers, disguised as Confederates,

came to the house of Silas Davenport . There happened to be five
armed “ rebels " at the house when they came in . The Federals were
taken into the woods and hung. The men who committed this act
are said to have been a portion of Capt . Farley's command .
SHOOTING OF 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.
DIMMITT'S FIGHT WITH GUERRILLAS .
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 .
BIOGRAPHIES.
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 na
tive 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 living,
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 ini
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 timedealing in
mules and horses for the Southern market. He came to Missouri in
November, 1865, and settled on the “ old Wiggam 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 mem
bers of the Christian Church at Harrisburg .
THOMAS H. BLAKEMORE .
Mr. Blakemore, likemany 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
8th , 1828. His father was a Kentuckian , his grandfather a native of

Virginia . His mother was a daughter of Sanford Payne, of Ken
tucky. 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 ,
even in boyhood , many of the cares and responsibilities of manhood
resting upon him . He commenced active business at the age of four
teen . From clerking in a store he soon passed to the more active
duties of a stock trader, buying in Kentucky and selling in Cincin

nati. 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 married in Ken
tucky to MissMarion Oldham , daughter of Wm . Oldham , of Madison
county. There was one child , John , by this marriage. He is now
married 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 Chris
tian 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 when 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 chil
dren 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
Rose married Maxwell.
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
farrning 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 re
turned 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 Har
land 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 ,
serving several terms in the legislature. He was largely 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 revolu-
tionary 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 be remained twenty years . From Fayette he removed
to Benton county , Missouri, where he remained three years, return
ing 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 , Mis

souri. 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 daugh
ters 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. Re
turning to Boone county , he married Miss Eva A. Fenton , daughter

of Joshua Fenton . In 1880 he commenced the culture of honey 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, yet 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 colony, notwithstanding oth
ers , less skilled in the business , frequently lose all their stock in one
season . This illustrates the difference 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 Burnham 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 family 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 his 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 have
had six children , three sons and three daughters, two of whom , Rob
ert H. and Julia , are dead . The surviving children are Wesley P.,
John M., Nannie and Emma D. Mr. Burnbam united with the Chris
tian 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 be
tween farming and teaching. He is a useful citizen , upright and
faithful in the discharge of duty , kind and accommodating as a neigh
bor , and earnest and zealous in the school room and pulpit .
WILLIAM H. COCHRAN .
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 exclu
sively 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 .
Abram 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 State Univer

sity . In 1861 he enlisted in the Confederate service , joining Com
pany 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 lieuten
ant. Company B was composed of sharpshooters. He 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 hy Capt . Berry .Owens, which position he held until the
close of the war . In the captain's absence the company was com
manded 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 oc
casion , 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 rasbuess. 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 was 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 timehe 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 revo
cation 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
in 1817 , and settled on the southeast quarter ofsection three , township

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 jus
tice of the peace . He was a public spirited man and took a deep in
terest in education . Hewas 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
Gore . In his boyhood , the captain had few opportunities for procur
ing 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 sonsand three daughters . Their names are
John L., Deborah E., Wm . O., Sterling P., Magdalena and Andrew
J. Deborah married Silas S. Davenport. They have four children .
William 0. 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 war , 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. Sur
rendered 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 Drip
ping Spring. In politics he is a straightout Democrat .
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 .
WILLIAM R. COWDEN , M. D.
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- to
do 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
ofGeorge Inglehart, a native of Germany, who canie 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 , and lived a pious , godly life . The sub
ject 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 de
gree from this institution in 1876. He was married in 1876 to Miss
Emma J., daughter of John Bennett, of Richmond , 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 Denbam , 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. Den
ham was educated at the common schools , but pursued his studies to
better purpose than most young men of like opportunities . Prepar
ing himself for a teacher he engaged in that husiness and was quite
successful. In 1872 he settled on a farm near Midway where he re
mained 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. Wilbite , daughter of Hon W. R. Wil
hite . 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 super
intendent of the Sunday school, which he has labored long and zeal
ously 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 father's

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 sixteen

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. Dimmitt is a min
ister of the M. E. Church South . He is now a member of one of the
Texas conferences . Sarah E. married Louis Hoffman , county attor
ney 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 daugh :
ters 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 South
ern in sentiment and slow to believe that people coming from a North
ern 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 were Methodists and in hearty ac
cord with their brethren . Theparents 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 Virgivia , who emi
grated 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., who , 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
-
was also named Caleb . William was educated at the common schools
of the county . The first teacher , of any consequence, was Robert A.

Younger , under whose instructions he inade rapid progress. Hewas
married in 1856 to Miss Lucinda , daughter of Buford Stice, of Boone
county , 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 Pol
lock . The first wife dying , Mr. Fenton married Miss Belle ,
daughter of John I. Pollock . By this union they have two sons , Hin
ton and Turner G., namesakes of Judge Hinton and Hon . Squire Tur
ner , 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 in 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.married 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
Bethlebemn 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 Madi

son 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
back to Boone county and settled in what is now known as Centralia
69
township , but afterwards removed to Perche township , where he now

resides. He has followed agricultural pursuits all his life . Was mar
ried 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. Goin is a member of the
Old School Baptist church . Mr. Guin is not a church member.
THOMAS FRANKLIN GOSLIN .
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 Syl
vester was but ten years old . They had to take shelter in Cooper's
Fort. Thomas is one of thirteen children , eight sons and five daugh
ters . 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 ma
turity , 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 somevery fine stock and takes
a lively interest in the business. He married Nancy E. Hawkins,
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 thorough
bred 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
aspirations. Was in the United States service during the late civil
war and was wounded at the battle of Bull Run . He was first lieu
tenant under Col. Stiles. Mr. Huntington has a substantial, well

built mansion furnished with all the modern improvements and con
veniences 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 appre
ciated by all who know him . He is a good neighbor, a genial com
panion and prompt and faithful in the discharge of all the duties of
citizenship .
WILLIAM F. M'QUITTY , M. D.
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, Jan
uary 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 grandfather 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 profes
sion . 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 Woodlandville, 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 under
takes. 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,

born January 6th , 1834. His father, William Norris, was born in
Albermarle county , Virginia . George W. Norris was one of eight
children , five sons and three daughters. The elder Norris died when
George was but five years old , leaving the latter to work out his own
destiny. Under the circumstances , bis education was somewhat neg
lected . 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
themedical 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 by this marriage :
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 Mis
souri infantry , Confederate army. He was with Pemberton at Vicks
burg , 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 pertaining to the common schools, his own
district school in particular.
BENJAMIN H. OREAR .
Benj. H. Orear was born in Boone county , Missouri, September

18th , 1846. He is the son of Joseph B. Orear, a native of Ken
tucky . 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 of 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 Roche
port academies , under the instruction of his brother, Prof. Newton
Searcy ; he entered the Confederate army and remained in the service
until the close of the 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 ,
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Daura Prowell sur
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 impor
tant trust Mr. Price has shown remarkable ability . It is a position re
quiring 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 suf
ficient commendation in itself. Edwin M. Price was born in Co
lumbia , 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 accumu
lated 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 negroes than
any other planter in the county . He was then largely engaged in
farming . When the war commenced he turned his attention to banking
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 ,” pre
viously 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 machin
ery . The $• Model Farm ” is situated in the blue grass region . The
pastures inthis 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 Hannibal,
Missouri. They have one son . He bears the name of R. B. Price, Jr.
CAPT. DAVID PROWELL , SR .
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 of Virginia . The
Prowells are of Irish descent. William , grandfather on the father's
side, was a soldier of the revolution . The maternal grandfather ,

Robin Fletcher , was a soldier in the war of 1812 . Mr. Prowell's
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. Johu 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 tre 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 gover
vor for volunteers, but the army 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 com
pany 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 trans
actions with his fellow -men as usually falls to the lot of a single indi
vidual. He has always been a positive Democrat . To him the name
is a synonym for honesty . He has always been a farmer , but in
early life used to teach school during the winter season . He taught
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but one term , however, after coming to Missouri . Capt . Prowell 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 PROWELL .
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 origiu , 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 inarried December 19th , 1838 , to Miss
Charlotte E., daughter of Leven Bishop , a native of Maryland. Eight
children were born 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 chil
dren . William married Mary E. Lyon . They have three children .
Judah A. married William Milbollen . 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 pro
moter of education and 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 , Mis
souri, in 1860. Mr. Settles' opportunities for acquiring an education
were very limited . 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 , nine of 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 this.
responsible position to the entire satisfaction of his employer . Mr.
Settles owns two hundred and fifty -two acres of land , which he culti
vates to the best advantage. He is a member of the Methodist
church ,
JOHN M. SHOCK , M. D.
Dr. Jobn M. Shock is a native of Boone county , Missouri. He is

the 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 grandfather 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 coun
try , 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
DAVID S. SHOCK .
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 marriage . The first wife died
three years after marriage and the doctor chose for his second
wife Miss Catherine Ritchie, of Kentucky . She died in 1860 , 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 Roche
port lodge of A. F. & A. M. His life has been a success . He is , in
the strictest sense of the term , ii 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 ro
mantic . Rich pasture land is not the rule , but there are many thou
sands of acres of blue grass not excelled on the continent. The sub
ject 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 Mis
sissippi. That this is no exaggeration , one need but visit the farms in
this section to be convinced . Mr. Smith is a practical farmer and de
lights 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 in
dustry , 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. Possess
ing 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 . His colleagues in the legislature were Dr. Matt. Arnold

and William Rowland . Claib . Jackson and Sterling Price were also
members of the same general assembly . The latter was speaker of

the house . Captain Smith resided on a farm five miles west of Co
lumbia froin 1819 to 1862, removing in that year to the farm now oc
cupied 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 dig
nified , commanding the esteem of all who knew him . Fielding W.
Smith was born April 17, 1846. He was educated at the Missouri
State University . He wasmarried in 1867 to Miss Mattie A. Mc
Kinney , of Boone county , daughter of John C. McKinney . Their
union has been blessed by four sons . Their model home is noted far
and wide for generous hospitality dispensed by Mr. and Mrs. Smith
to all who pass the portals of their happy , well-ordered home. Mr.
Smith makes a specialty of breeding thoroughbred stock , especially
Cotswold 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 2,000 pounds. He took
the sweepstake premium at St. Louis in 1881 ; first premium at Kan
sas 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 . Heknows 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 ma
chinery , 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 , evi
dently , a bright future before him .
SOLON E. SMITH .
David Smith , the father of Solon E. Smith , was born in Madison

county , 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 sons and four daughters, all of whom are now living. Solon E.,
was born 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 im
proved . The situation is most beautiful. The lawn extending south
from the mansion nearly three hundred yards is set in grass and orna
mented 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 part 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 top
ics of the day, is a most entertaining companion . He is largely en
gaged 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 emi
grated 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 Eliza
beth Schooler, daughter of Alex . Schooler , of Boone county . They

have four children , 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 fore

fathers 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 sol-

dier , and a native ofMaryland. Mr. Thurston cameto 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 R. and
Hollis H. Mr. Thurston owns an excellent farın 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 University , and is now a successful teacher of the common
schools of Boone county .
REUBEN JEFFERSON WADE .
Reuben J. Wade was born in Cumberland county, Kentucky, Octo

ber 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 Thoinas 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 children .
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 three
score years and ten was a member of theMethodist church . Foun
tain 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. Com
ing 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. Wayland is an officialmen )
ber of the Methodist church .
HON . WILLIAM RICE WILHITE .
The subject of this sketch is a practical farmer. Possessing many

of the characteristics of a leader , he naturally became the representa
tive 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 ex
cellent judgment in selecting Mr. Wilhite , a man worthy of the hon
ors conferred and capable of discharging the trust almost unanimously
imposed . As a member of the legislature , Mr. Wilbite was not bril
His speeches were few , and never eloquent. Hedid 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 con
stituents , 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
in that business . His chances for acquiring an education were poor,
but he made the best use possible of every opportunity that presented
itself, and when in after years he was called from the farm to repre
sent 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 themisfortune to lose his wife in three 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
' 1102 HISTORY OF BOONE COUNTY .
father's old home in Boone county . In 1855 he bought a farm near
Rocheport, on which he resided for about three years. He then pur

chased 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 chair
man of the committee on State University ; also ways and means,
penitentiary , agriculture and scientific and benevolent institu
tions. He was reëlected in 1876 , without opposition , an endorse
ment without a parallel in the political history of Boone county.
Since serving his last term in the legislature Mr. Wilhite has re
mained quietly on his farm , looking after his interests in that quar
ter, 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 lib
erally to the support of the gospel .
MOSES WILHITE .
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 Wil
hites 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 con
fidence 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 sec
tion of the country . His land produces excellent wheat and corn .
Mr. Wilhite has 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
Boone 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 .
Elevenu 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 .
WILLIAM WINGO .
The subject of this sketch was born in South Carolina , May 16th ,
1822. He is the son of Thomas Wingo , born in Virginia , but raised
in Sonth Carolina. William , the father of Thomas Wingo, was a
soldier of the revolution. The family are of Dutch ancestry . Mr.
Wingo came to Missouri with his father in 1835, being then in his
thirteenth year . They settled in Boone county on the place now
occupied by William . The elder Wingo was a member of the
regular Baptist church . William Wingo was married to Miss
Clarence D. Kelly , daughter of James Kelly . By this marriage they
had three children , one son and two daughters. Mrs. Wingo dying
in 1857, he married Miss Caroline Corlew , daughter of John Corlew .
They had no children by this marriage . During the war Mr. Wingo
spent eight months in the Confederate service. He is a farmer, but
in early life taught school. His children are all married and settled
in life, leaving him and his wife alone in the old home. His daughter ,
David Ella , married Marion M. Rowland . They had two children by
this marriage . Mr. Rowland having died , she married Albert Wells ,
of Montana. They have by this marriage three children . James T.
Wingo married Malinda Winn . They have four children . Henrietta
married James D. Fay , now of Columbia . They have four children .
CHAPTER XXII .
ROCKY FORK TOWNSHIP .
Position and Description - Early History , First Settlers, etc. Miscellaneous - Incidents
of the Civil War - The Fight at Mt. Zion and near Hallsville - Capture and Escape of
John Roberts — Capture of Maj. Evans's Shotguns — Lt. Hopkins's Fight with Bush
whackers — Fatal Attempt to Arrest John West, a Noted Bush whacker - Noted Trage
dies — Killing of Peter Evansby Dr. Keene — Killing of Dr. Keene by . Dr. Austin —
Churches of Rocky Fork Township : Red Top, Pleasant Grove, Friendship , Gilead , Mt.
Zion, Hickory Grove - Hallsville - Masonic Lodge - Lebanon - Biographies of Old
Settlers and Prominent Citizens of Rocky Fork Township .
The boundaries of Rocky Fork township are as follows : Beginning

at the northeast corner of section two, township fifty , range eleven ,
thence south along the section line to the southeast corner of section
thirty -five , same township and range ; thence east to the middle of
Cedar creek ; thence down said creek until where the section line be
tween sections three and ten , township forty -nine, range eleven , crosses ;
thence west to the southwest corner of section one, township forty
nine, range thirteen ; thence north to the northwest corner of section
one , township fifty, range thirteen ; thence east to the place of begin
ning. Formerly the township was the extreme northeast township of
the county .When first laid out, in May , 1821 , its northern boundary
was the sameas that of the county . The creation of Bourbon town
ship reduced it to its present size and position .
Rocky Fork contains a great deal of broken and rolling country ,
and much unproductive soil ; but it also has within its borders some
farmsas fine and fertile as any in the county. There are much very
valuable timber and stone. The Cedar, the Hinkson , Silver Fork and
the Rocky Fork of Perche ( from which stream the township was
named ) supply plenty of water . There is an abundance of coal in the
southern part of the township .
EARLY HISTORY .
An unauthenticated story is current to the effect thatas far back as in

1815 an old abandoned cabin was seen in the southwestern part of this
township by those early pioneers who visited the country at that day.
No one knew who had built this cabin ; but one theory was that the
French explorers had put it up, perhaps in 1775. A few persons,
fond of wild conjectures , and not well informed in the premises , be
lieved it to have been at one time the home or rendezvous of John A.
Murrell, the great Western land pirate, notwithstanding the fact that
it is uncertain that Murrell was ever in Missouri.
In 1816 there came to what is now Rocky Fork towhship Willis ,
Absalom , John and William Winn , and settled in township fifty , range
twelve . William , John and Charles Winn still live in the same neigh
borhood . The Winns were from Kentucky . Eph . and Hibert Brink
came from Madison county , Ky., and settled in Boone county in 1815 .
Ephraim Brink settled on the farm now owned by J. G. Roberts , on
section fifteen , township fifty , range twelve , east of Red Top church ;
Hibert located near where old Middletown stood ; Hibert was a
blacksmith and farmer ; he now lives in Sturgeon , past eighty years of
age .
Thos. McBride, Sr., came from Madison county , Kentucky, to this
county in 1816. Hehad three sons, who had nearly attained manhood
when they came to the new country . They were named Jacob , James and
Thomas, Old Thomas McBridewas the first preacher in Rocky Fork ,
and was an earnest , zealous one, whose text -book was the Bible alone.
Of his sons Jacob was a farmer and a justice of the peace for many
years : James was a physician ; Thomas, Jr., was a school teacher .
Altogether the McBrides were men of more than average learning and
ability . The father and James and Thomas removed to Oregon in an
early day, and there the old gentleman lived to see one of his grand
sons governor of the State and a congressman . Jacob McBride died
in this township , and the family resides in the county , except one
member , a daughter, who removed to Oregon .
Samuel Caldwell came to the township with the McBrides and mar
ried a daughter of Thomas , Sr. Caldwell served as constable of the
township for fifteen years . He settled on section nine, township fifty ,
70
range twelve , where John Philips now resides , and died in 1881, at an
advanced age.
Nathan Roberts came to the township in 1816 , settling on the farm

near Red Top church . He gave the land to the church and cemetery .
Mr. Roberts had first settled in Madison county , Kentucky , on a
tract of land which afterwards proved to belong to Green Clay. After
losing his farm in Kentucky he came to Howard county , Missouri, and
located near where Ashland church now is , on what afterwards was
found to be a New Madrid claim . He again gave up his homestead
and crossed over to Boone, where he located on the well-known farm
near Red Top. Here he was permitted to rest in peace , there being
no prior titles to the land to disquiet him . Mr. Roberts's family con
sisted of five sonsand three daughters . The sons were Thomas, John ,
Richard T., James and David B., all of whom settled in the neighbor
hood . Thos. Roberts died in a few years after the last settlement
and was the first white person buried in Red Top churchyard . He
left a widow and one daughter ; the latter became the wife of A. M.
Roberts . The other sons were farmers. Richard inarried the widow
of Thomas. He was a minister of the gospel, and has done much
good in the community , both by precept and example . James and
David are still living and have families . Wm . Roberts, a brother of
Nathan , came to Missouri about the same time. He was a preacher .
He brought up a large family of sons and daughters and lived to be an
old man , dying amidst troops of friends.
Soon after the first Roberts settlement, there came from the same
part of Kentucky (Madison county ) William M., John M., Larry and
Louis Roberts. All of these lived to be aged men except Larry . He
lived near the present site of Harrisburg , in Perche township . These
men raised large families, whose descendants are scattered over the
United States.
W. Houston came from Kentucky in 1818 , and settled on the farm
now owned by A. B. Haggard . He was a hatter , and also an excel
lent Christian citizen . He is the father of Cicero Houston , of this
township . Elder James Williams, Sr., came to the township from
Kentucky in 1817, and settled and lived here until his death , in 1863..
He was a preacher and a leading worker in the Christian church .
Old Zadok Riggs had three sons , viz . : Zadok , Silas, and Samuel
Riggs, who came to Rocky Fork from Kentucky in 1816 , living to be
old men . Silas Riggs was a justice of the peace for twenty years , and
one of the most prominent citizens of the county . He was the father
of James Riggs , of Randolph county . Samuel Riggs was bitten by a

rabid wolf while sleeping in a cave on Perche creek , in 1817. He im
mediately returned to Kentucky for a madstone, which he applied
with success , and which he brought back with him to Missouri.
Joseph Fretwell now has this madstone .
Absalom Hicks emigrated from Kentucky to this township in 1816 ,
and settled on the farm where Mrs. O. Reed now lives , near Middle
town. He was the father of Mattison , Willis, and Young E. Hicks.
The latter was a noted Santa Fe trader, and freighted many a train
across the plains to New Mexico , loaded with dry goods and other
merchandise . He was for a time in partnership with Amos Marney ,
another of the first settlers of the township . Young Hicks was the
father of Hon . Absalom Hicks, who represented this county in the
Legislature in 1852. Mattison was a justice of the peace for many
years. Upon the breaking out of the civil war he became" disloyal,"
and died while a Federal prisoner at St. Louis.
Joseph Brown, father of the Joe Brown , of near Brown's Station ,
came to the township in 1817, and settled the farm where Mrs. G.
Robinson now lives .
James Turner came from Kentucky in 1817 , and located on a farm
near Hallsville . He brought up a large family . His sonswere Jesse ,
Tom and Enoch . Thomas Turner was the father of Mordecai, who
lives east of Hallsville .
Isaac Davis came from Christian county , Kentucky, to this part of
Missouri in 1818 , and settled two miles east of Hallsville . His sons
were James, Henry , Isaac, Benjamin , John and Joseph . One of
Isaac's sons, Joseph , now lives on the old Davis homestead .
Hugh French removed from Tennessee to Boone county in 1820 ,
settling in Rocky Fork township , on the farın now owned by his son
John . He was also the father of S. L. French and Mrs. Armstrong ,
and grandfather of Hugh H. Hall , the present deputy county clerk .
Mr. French died in the year 1845, full of years and honors , and a
prominent member of the Christian church .
Nathan Terry came to the township from Kentucky in 1818 .
Peter Stice came in about the same time and settled on the farm
where John.C. Eubanks now resides . In 1823 Stice sold out to Am
brose Hulen , who lived on the farm till his death , raising a large
family . He was a prominent member of the Christian church at Red
Top , and 'a well-known citizen . Mr. Hulen was a soldier in the war
of 1812 , and was at Dudley's defeat on the River Raisin , in Michigan ,
where he was taken prisoner by the Indian allies of the British . He

was redeemed from the Indians by a kind friend, who traded a pony
for him .
One of the first settlers of this township was Rev. Elias Newman .
He was a Baptist minister. Sometimes he was connected with the
is .
organization of Mt. Tabor church , near where Mt. Zion now
Rev. Newman had three sons, James , Elias W. and Thomas. The
latter was murdered during the civil war, while lying sick at the house
of his father-in -law , a Mr. Price . It is reported that the killing was
done by a Federal command from Mexico , under Maj. Mitchen (or
Mitchell), and that the killing was simply an atrocity . It is said that
Mitchell was not a “ rebel,” but a peaceable , inoffensive citizen . The
militia came to the house and surrounded it , and , as reported , some
of them went in and shot Mr. Newman until he was dead , while his
wife and family were begging for his life .
In the neighborhood of Hickory Grove, among the first settlers
were B. A. Younger , who was a Methodist minister and a school
teacher , and Charles Helms, who came from Kentucky in an early
day. He had been a soldier of the war of 1812 , and had endured
many privations while in the service. He had been taken prisoner by
the Indians, with all that such experience implied at that day, and it
implied a great deal of suffering and torture then , as now . Mr. Helms
had a remarkable memory , and could repeat many chapters of the
Bible by rote. He was a member of the Christian church and belonged
to the Masonic order His death occurred but a few years since. He
prepared his own funeral sermon , and composed the hymn which was
sung at his grave. He also prepared the coffin in which he was
buried , and procured his own tombstones .
Other early settlers were J. D. Bratton , Dr. Points, Allen Rouse,
Alfred Rouse, Mr. Carter, Wn . Thornton , Rolly and Calvin Asbury
and Abraham Waldon . Barney Dickerson was here as early as 1817.
He lived on a farm east of Hallsville , He is still living , but is old
and blind . A man named kept a store on the farm where
Mrs. Rutledge now lives . Wm . Dunu came from Kentucky in 1820
and settled east of Hallsville ; he died but a few years ago . Reuben
Pollard, also a Kentuckian , came in 1820 .
Doctors McMillan and James McBride were the first practicing phy
:sicians in the township .
It is stated that the first brick house in Rocky Fork was built hy
Elijah Winn .
MISCELLANEOUS .
About twenty years since Mr. Wm . Watts was accidently shot and
killed . The incident happened in the eastern part of this township .
He and another man named Watkins were herding cattle , and while
the two were carelessly handling a gun it was accidentally discharged
and Watts was killed .
Robert Rowland, a child four or five years old , was drowned before
the war, by falling into a well . Wm . Rowland was killed at Centralia
at the time of the massacre . (See account. )
Mrs. Conley , a widow lady, about fifty years of age, committed sui
cide in June, 1882. . She had been sick for some time, and her mind
had becomemuch impaired . While the other members of the family
were outside of the house she went to the smoke-house and hung her
self .
NOTE . — In order to get this book within a reasonable compass as to size, many unim
portant incidents in the history of this township have been omitted. — PUBLISHERS.
INCIDENTS OF THE CIVIL WAR .
The skirmish near Hallsville, and the battle at Mt. Ziou church , in
the latter part of December, 1861, are fully described in the general
history . The incident of the killing of a Federal soldier by the busb
whackers, the soldier having been taken from a stage coach , is also
narrated elsewhere .
CAPTURE AND ESCAPE OF JOHN ROBERTS .
During the war John Roberts, a Confederate , was taken prisoner by

a detachment of Merrill's Horse . When he and his captors were near
Mr. Jennings's residence, Roberts attempted to escape . The Fed

erals fired upon him and brought him down and left him on the
ground for dead . He recovered sufficiently to be able to make his
way to the house of Mr. Jennings, where he was cared for until he
was able to make his way to his own home. Mr. Roberts now lives
in Texas .
CAPTURE OF MAJ. FRANK EVANS'S SHOT-GUNS BY BUSHWHACKERS.
About the 20th of June, 1864 , an escort sent out from Columbia ,
consisting of Maj. Frank D. Evans, of the Sixty - first E. M. M., and
five men of Company A , Ninth M. S. M., were returning from Cen
tralia in charge of fifty double- barrelled shot-guns and a quantity of
ammunition , intended to be placed in the hands of the citizens of Co

lumbia for the purpose of defending the town in any emergency of
danger. The guns and ammunition were in a wagon, a negro driving .
About one- fourth of a mile south of the house of John Lampton ,
between themouth of a lane and a small pond , the escort was fired
into by a party of bushwhackers concealed in the bushes. A soldier
named George Conrad was struck by a ball in the right side, which
passed into his lungs, causing him to fall from his horse. A second
one, named Bird Adams, was struck by two buckshot in the lower
part of the back , the shot passing internally. A third one was thrown
from his horse, but managed to make his escape, with no other dam
age than a few bullet holes through his clothes . Three horses were
severely wounded , two of which were abandoned . The wagon was
now hurried forward as fast as the horses could carry it, Maj. Evans
and the two remaining soldiers following in its rear . Five or six
bushwhackers pursued , and a running fire was kept up between the
parties, which , however , did no damage to either . After proceeding
about three miles, the horses attached to the wagon gave out, and the
escort was compelled to abandon it and come on to Columbia , the
driver taking to the brush .
The wagon and horses , guns and ammunition , all fell into the hands
of the bushwhackers. They carried the wagon a short distance back ,
and burned it, together with fourteen ofthe guns. They retained the
horses . Both horses and wagon belonged to Judge Vanhorn , of Co
lumbia . After leaving the wagon, the escort came on to Columbia .

There were too few soldiers there to make any attempt at
pursuit . The affair occasioned considerable excitement.
The wounded soldiers eventually recovered . Conrad , after falling
from his horse , eluded the bushwhackers and reached the house of
Mr. Spence , some three miles distant, and was brought in in a car
riage. Harris , though more severely wounded , rode the whole dis
tance in with the escort .
SKIRMISH WITH BUSHWHACKERS .
September 7 , 1864 , a Federal scout from Columbia , under Lieut.

S. W. Hopkins, of Company F , Third M. S. M., came upon about a
dozen bushwhackers in the timber , in the southwestern part of the
township , about eight miles north of Columbia , and a brisk little
skirmish ensued . The bush whackers were soon routed . The Feder
als captured four horses, some shot guns , and some clothing . Two
bushwhackers and one Federal were wounded . The bushwhackers

were supposed to have been commanded by Jim (or Tom ) Carter .
ATTEMPT TO ARREST JOHN WEST BY SHERIFF BAKER - LIEUT. WILLIAM

M'CLINTOCK SHOT WEST ESCAPES .
Indictments for murder having been found by the grand jury of

Audrain county against John West , a notorious desperado and bush
whacker , an attempt was made by John F. Baker , sheriff of Boone
county, and a posse of four men , to arrest him at James Chiles's, his
father-in - law , eight miles north of Columbia , about the 1st of Octo
ber , 1865. The sheriff's posse consisted of Lieut. Wm . McClintock ,
of Mexico , James A. Rogers, James Shanks and Henry Bryan . They
arrived at Chiles's after bed -time, dismounted, disposed of themselves
very judiciously to effect the arrest, the sheriff being the first to ap
proach the house . To omit details — Mr. Baker aroused the occu
pants, became certain that West was there , when Lieut. McClintock
and others came to the house , whereupon West with a shot gun ,
through a crack in the wall, shot Lieut. McClintock in the abdomen ,
very badly wounding him . From another “ port hole " on the other
side of the house , another shot was discharged , inflicting a slight
wound in the pantaloons of Mr. Bryan . The dangerous wound in
flicted on Lieut. McClintock and the confusion which ensued afforded
West an opportunity to escape, and he was soon at large .
NOTED TRAGEDIES KILLING OF PETER EVANS BY DR . KEENE , AND

KILLING OF DR . KEENE BY DR . AUSTIN .
In December, 1869 , Dr. Thos . H. Keene, a practicing physician of

Hallsville , shot and killed one Peter Evans. The affair was the cul
mination of a bitter feud between the parties , and there were two
opinions as to the justification of the killing. The cause and origin
of the trouble need not be stated in this history . Evans was killed in
Hallsville . Dr. Keene was arrested and tried on preliminary examina
tion before Justices R. J. Smith and Lewis G. Berry , the trial lasting
eight days, when he was held to bail in the sum of $8,000, for bis.
appearance at the March term of the circuit court, 1870 .
At that term , and on an indictment for murder in the first degree ,
Dr. Keene was found guilty of a lesser offence and sentenced to six
teen years' imprisonment in the penitentiary . His counsel appealed
his case to the district court and he was released on $ 15,000 bail.
While the case was pending in the district court, the court was abol
ished by an amendment to the constitution adopted by a vote of the

people. Proper steps not having been taken , after the abolition of
the district court , to get his case into the supreme court , on Wednes
day , February 21 , 1872, Keene was arrested on a warrant issued by
the Boone circuit court, and the Friday following the verdict of the
jury was confirmed , and on Wednesday, February 28 , 1872, he was
sent to the penitentiary . At the July term , 1872, of the supreme
court his case was remanded to the Boone circuit court for a trial de
novo , and on Monday, August 19 , 1872 , Keene was taken out of the
penitentiary , and admitted to bail in the sum of $6,000, to appear at
the next succeeding term of the circuit court. At the October term ,
1872 ; also at the February , June and October terms, 1873, the case
was continued by the defendant ; and at the February term , 1874, a
change of venue was granted to Pike county , where, in September,
1875 , he was tried and acquitted .
August 29, 1876 , Dr. Keene was shot and killed by Dr. Benjamin .
Austin , in front of his (Dr. K.'s ) stable, in Hallsville, and near
where he had killed Peter Evans, seven years before. For some time
previously the personal and professional relations of Drs . Keene and
Austin had been of a very unfriendly character, to an extent that pre
cluded all personal intercourse between them . A few days before the
tragedy there was received at Hallsville, through the mails , and at
other places in the county , an anonymous publication , in circular
letter form , very scandalous in its character , and very defamatory and.
abusive of Dr. Austin , both as a citizen and physician. No name was.
attached to the circular, though it was scarcely doubted that Dr.
Keene was not only the author of it, but that he had it printed
where , it is not known. This publication was thought to have been
the immediate cause of the fatal encounter. The killing was done by
Dr. Austin with a double- barrelled shot gun , about fifteen buckshot
taking effect in Keene's face and head and killing him instantly ..
After the death of Keene, a young man by the name of Baker Batter
ton , a son of Mr. Samuel Batterton , and who was living with Keene,
came out of the stable , ran to where Keene was lying , got his pistol,
and commenced firing at Austin and at Mr. J. O ..Pierce, a son -in -law
of Mr. R. P. Waters , and a clerk in Jones's store . Neither shot took
effect. The firing having ceased and the train for Columbia being
about due, Dr. Austin left for Hickman station , about a half mile
distant, got on the train , came to Columbia , and surrendered himself
to the officers of the law . He underwent a preliminary examination
before Esq . T. B. Gentry , and was by that magistrate discharged .

Esq . Gentry said :
I find the case to be one of justifiable homicide. The dangerous and desperate character
of the deceased , as proven , his known habit of going armed , his threats to take the life of
Austin, his declaring that he would kill him even if he had to do it in ambush ; and these
things all being known to Austin - the threats having been communicated to him — living
in the sameneighborhood and liable to meet Austin at any time, I think gave him reason
able cause to apprehend a design on the part of Keene to do him some great bodily harm ;
and gave him reasonable cause to apprehend immediate and constantdanger of such design
being accomplished . The killing under such circumstances, even though Austin sought and
advanced upon Keene, was done in the lawful defence of Austin's person .
Dr. Keene was a man of remarkable person , and experienced an
eventful and remarkable career . With prominent features, a nose
very long and quite thin , and thick , sandy-colored beard , that floated
from his face and chin like a banner , he attracted attention wherever
seen . He was born in Boone county in 1831. He was a man of un
controllable feelings and prejudices ; had many implacable enemies

and strong friends, and was often involved in serious criminations and
troubles . Dr. Benj. Austin has lived in Boone since 1860, having
come to this county from Bath county , Kentucky , where he was born .
CHURCHES OF ROCKY FORK TOWNSHIP RED TOP ( CHRISTIAN ) .
The Christian church at Red Top is one of the oldest churches in

this part of Missouri. The germ or parent organization was founded
October 5 , 1822, with the following members : Elders — Wm . Rob
erts , Thos . W. McBride and Richard Cave . Deacons - Nathan
Roberts and Isaac Davis . Members - Peter Stice, Richard Wainscott ,
Richmond T. Roberts, James Roberts, Priscilla Roberts, Sally Davis,
Nancy Wainscott, Charlotte Caldwell, Charlotte Stice , Mary Turner .
This organization was before the formation of the Christian or Disci
ples church . The members took for a guide and were ruled by the
Bible, and by the Bible alone. They subscribed to no creed or con
fession of faith . They recognized the elders of the church as pastors ,
and to them all questions of difference were referred . Afterwards the
organization wasmerged into the Christian church .
The first church building used by this congregation was a log house,
built in 1822. The present house of worship was built in 1867, at a
cost of about $ 3,200 . It is a frame, and stands on section 15 , town
ship 50 , range 12. John O. White did the first preaching therein .
The pastors of the church have been Thos. McBride, Richmond T.
Roberts, Joel Hayden , Richard Cave , Thos . M. Allen , M.Wills, Wm .
White, Thomas Thompson , Elder Davis , Elijah Chrisman , John T.
McCune, T. J. Marlow , M. M : Davis, Joel A. Heddington , and others.

The present preachers are L. L. Norton and Elijah Chrisman . The
number of members is very large — 330 .
PLEASANT GROVE - MISSIONARY BAPTIST .
This church was constituted April 18 , 1853 , by Elder Wm . Thomp

son . The first members were Wm . James, Margaret James, Isabella
P. James , Wm . K. Sturgeon , Margaret Sturgeon , James M.Wilhite,
Sarah W. Wilhite, Pleasant Bush , Edward Silver, George W. Silver,
Thos. J. Jennings . The present church building was erected in 1855 ,
the members performing nearly all the necessary.work . It is a frame,
and stands on the southwest quarter of the northwest quarter of sec
tion 3 , township 50 , range 11. It was dedicated in 1855 by Rev. W.
R. Wigginton . The pastors of the church have been Wm . Thomp
son , W. R. Wigginton , Pleasant Gentry , James Jackson , J. M.
McGuire — the latter the present pastor . The clerk is M. A. Silver ;
deacons, Geo . W. Silver , Shelton Quisenberry and R. P. Waters .
Present number of members , about 85 .
FRIENDSHIP CHURCH (CHRISTIAN ).
An old organization of this church was effected in 1837, one mile

south of the present church building, with nine members, all of whom
are now dead but one Mrs. Sophia Hoffman. It was disorganized
in 1876 , the members going into other organizations. The present
church was formed in 1878. The original members were John W.
Ridgeway , wife and daughter ; W. Hulett, wife and two daughters ;
Wm . Pigg , wife and son ; James Noe and wife ; Wm . Goslin and
wife ; Maria Turner and son ; Cyrus Turner and wife ; James A. Ste
venson , wife and son ; Harrison Croswhite and wife ; Edmond Brat
ton and wife ; Marcus Palmer, wife , son and daughter ; John Williams
and wife ; John S. Hoffman and Mary Crump. Elder Wm . Mason
had charge of the work of organization . The church building was
erected in 1878 , at a cost of $ 950. It is a frame, and stands on the
southwest quarter of section 20 , township 50 , range 12 , on a portion
of what is known as the Bratton farm . The first sermon preached in
it was by Joel Heddington , in October , 1878. Among the pastors
have been Elders Mason , Heddington , Cave, Burton , Roselle , Burnam ,
and Elijah Chrisman . The latter preaches once a month , although he
is seventy-nine years of age. The present membership is 83. James
A. Stevenson , John W. Ridgeway and Josiah Jones are the elders, and
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Willis Robinson and Cyrus Turner are the deacons. The congregation
meets for worship every Lord's day.
GILEAD (REGULAR BAPTIST ) CHURCH .
It is located on the southwest quarter of section 12 , township 50,

range 12 , in Rocky Fork township . Rev. James T. Barnes organized
the church in 1832, and became its first pastor. The first members
of this flock were Thomas Turner and wife , Taylor Hulen and wife,
John Davenport and wife , James Williams and wife, Macon Purcell
and wife , Thomas Owens and wife , Thomas Croswhite and wife , James
Croswhite and wife , and Elias Newman and wife . The first church
edifice was a log structure , erected in 1832 , and served the purpose of
a meeting-house for the congregation for several years , having been
built at the economic cost of $ 125 . The present building was put up
in 1876 at a cost of $ 1,200 , and is a neat frame structure. It was
dedicated the same year by Elder John Burnam . The following gen
tlemen have served the church as pastors since it was organized : Jas.
Barnes , Thomas P. Stephens, Allen McGuire , Benjamin Jenkins, Peter
Kemper, John Burnam , Edward Burnam , Ben . Owens, James Atkin
.son , Berry Wren and W. H. Powell, the present pastor. The present
membership is about forty souls .
An incident connected with the labors of “ Uncle Jimmy ” Barnes ,
in this township , will bear relating. At an early day he was baptizing
a number of converts in Bear creek . There was a large crowd present
to witness the ceremony. A number of young men crawled out on the
limb of a sycamore tree that overhung the water, to get a good view
of the proceedings . Suddenly the limb broke, and all of them were
precipitated into the water and involuntarily immersed . The accident
was laughable , even if the occasion was a serious one.
MT . ZION CHURCH M. E. SOUTH .
This church is located on the south half of section 32 , township 50 ,

range 11. The first organization was in 1843 , and some of the
original members were John Reed , Sr., John Reed , Jr., Prudence
Reed , Joseph Points , S. C. Points, Wilson Grady, M. A.Grady, R.
A. Younger, Edith Younger , Thos. Karnes, Betsy Karnes , and A. J.
Younger. The first church building, a frame, was built in 1848, and
stood until it was burned by a detachment of the Third Iowa cavalry ,
under . a Lieutenant Hartman , September 22, 1863. The same
soldiers also burned , at the same visit, a number of dwelling houses
in the neighborhood . Lieut. Hartman said that the reason he

burned the church was because it had ceased to be a church and had
become a “ bushwhackers' nest.” Another account, said to have
been furnished by D. M. Finley , who claims to have been a sergeant
of the Tenth Missouri State Militia , is to the effect that that regiment
burned the church , but the reports of the adjutant-general of the
State do not show that such a regiment ever existed . It was at this
church where the battle between Gen. Prentiss's Federals and Col.
Dorsey's Confederates took place , December 28, 1861, a full account
of which engagement is to be found on other pages of this history .
The present church was built in 1867 at a cost of $2,000 , and dedi
cated by Rev. J. D. Vincil, in 1872. The first church was dedicated
by A. Monroe , in 1848. The pastors of Mt. Zion church have been
Anthony Seares , P. M. Pinkard , W. Toole , Wm . Sexton , Jesse Fau
bion , John F. Young , Preston Phillips, George Smith , Geo . Sexton ,
Wm . Sutton , Thos. DeMoss , Joseph Metcalf, Hiram Groves , D. H.
Root , F. A. Savage , Wm . Rich , Walter Toole, and Robert White .
The present membership is large for a country church , numbering 256.
All of the original members of Mt. Zion are gone, except the follow
ing : John Reed ( from whom much of this information has been
obtained ), S. C. Points,M. A. Grady and A. F. Younger and wife.
HICKORY GROVE CHURCH .
The Hickory Grove Christian church is located on the north side of

the northwest quarter of section 2 , township 49 , range 11 , just across
the Callaway line , though its membership is sufficiently large from
Boone county to warrant its being mentioned in this work . It was
organized in 1856 , and the first members were John E. Chappell,
Daniel Mourning, John Gay, Sr., John D. Gay , Margaret Chrisman ,
Curtis P. Gay , Catherine E. Gay , Parlee Chappell, John D. Bratton ,
Sr., Elijah E. Chrisman , Jane A. Chrisman , Laura F. Chrisman ,
Mary J. Gay, Ida-Bratton , and Nancy Riggs.
The church building, a frame, was erected in 1857, at a cost of
about $ 1,000 . The first preacher was Rev. Elijah E. Chrisman ,
who was followed in turn by Thomas G. Marlow , E. C. Gill and
E. B. Cake, the latter being the present pastor . The membership
now numbers about twenty - five.
HALLSVILLE .
This town was named for Hon . John W. Hall , who kept a post
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office near where the place was afterward laid out . The town was
never platted . It was a cross -roads, where a store was built and
a blacksmith shop started , and other houses were added from time to
time until it reached its present proportions. The first store was
kept by a man named Leach . When the railroad was built the town
of Hickman was platted and a depot established half a mile south of
Hallsville, but the new town has persistently refused to grow to this
day. Hickman is the station where the Hallsville people take and
leave the cars .
Hallsville contains five stores (two dry goods, one bardware, one
drug, and one grocery and confectionery store) , one harness shop and
two blacksmith shops. Population 65. There is a daily mail from
the north and the south . W. W.Roberts, postmaster. There is 110
church or school house in the little village.
MASONIC LODGE - HALLSVILLE .
This lodge, number 336 , A. F. and A. M., was instituted by W.

W. Garth , of Columbia , the date of dispensation being October 11,
1877, and the charter bearing date of October 17, 1878. The charter
members were W. F. Roberts , Enoch Hulen , W. T. Summers , John
W. Parish , R. P. Roberts, T. T. S. Kemper, Thomas Barnes, Josiah
Hall and W. W. Roberts. The first officers upon the organization of
the lodge were Wm . F. Roberts, W. M .; Enoch Hulen , S. W .;
W. T. Summers, J. W .; John W. Parish , treasurer ; W. W. Rob
erts, secretary ; T. T. S. Kemper, S. D .; Josiah Hall, J. D., and
R. P. Roberts, tyler. The present officials are J. T. Henry , W.
M .; R. P. Roberts , S. W .; W. H. Brink , J. W .; John A. Elkin ,
treasurer ; Josiah Hall, secretary ; W. F. Roberts, chaplain ; R. F.
Hulett, S. D .; Thomas Hulett , J. D .; Isaac L. McCaslin , tyler ; J
W. Horner and W. W.Roberts, stewards. None of these are as yet
grand lodge officers . The membership at this time numbers about
forty . The hall is a frame structure , built jointly by the Masons and
Grangers, at a cost of about $ 500 , each of these orders owning a one
half interest . It was commenced in 1876 , and completed 1877. The
lodge is in good working order , and peace and harmony prevail .
LEBANON .
The town of Lebanon was laid out on the southwest quarter of

section 36 , township 50 , range 11, about 1836 , by John W.McBride,
He was the first post-master . There was a blacksmith shop and a
family grocery in the place . The first lot sold in the town was bought
by a man named Hewlett. He paid $ 30 for it. He built a house on
the lot and afterwards sold out to John M. McGee. There is no
store or post-office kept there now , and the town is extinct .
BIOGRAPHIES .
ELDER JAMES BARNES .
Of the many brave, generous, self-sacrificing ministers who came

at an early day to the frontier wilderness of Missouri, bringing the
glad tidings of salvation to sinful men , none were more loved and
respected than Elder James Barnes, who was first in the presence
and first in the hearts of the primitive settlers of Boone county . His
was a three- fold mission . He was a soldier of the cross , a soldier of
war and a teacher. He was neither learned nor brilliant , but for the
age in which he lived , and the field in which he toiled , he was well
fitted . The fruits of his labor survive him , and will remain through
untold ages yet to come.
Elder Barnes was born in Madison county , Kentucky , September
18 , 1788. He made a profession of religion when but fifteen years
old , and was baptized and admitted a member of the Yates Creek church ,
the denomination being that of the Old School, or Regular Baptist.
In the year 1800 Elder Barnes emigrated to Missouri, making Fort.
Hempstead the objective point of his journey . In this fort, which
was situated in Howard county, he was afterwards married .. He
proved a useful member of the little band gathered for mutual protec
tion , within the four walls of this rude stockade. When assailed he
took his rifle and helped defend the fort . When the storm of battle
was over, and the yell of the merciless savage no longer called the
vigilant pioneers to the ramparts or the port-holes , Elder Barnes
turned his attention to other, and more congenial, tasks. He preached
and prayed with all the fervor of his ardent, God - fearing nature, for
the salvation of those whom a special providence seemed to have
placed within reach of his warning voice. Another duty he found
both leisure and opportunity for , and be discharged it faithfully .
He became their temporal as well as spiritual teacher . His pupils
were eager to acquire the rudiments of education , and thankful for
this their first and , perhaps, only opportunity of learning to read .
The fertile valley of the Missouri soon attracted sufficient popula
tion to defend it against all threatened danger , and the forts, once the
pride and hope of the pioneer, must henceforth remain only as so
many relics of other and darker days . When once assured of safety ,
the pioneers left the forts and betook themselves to the choice lands
of the surrounding country . Elder Barnes came to Boone county and
was soon identified with all the best interests of the people , who
showed their appreciation and gratitude by making him their sheriff .
When the country becamemore densely populated and he found that
he could well be spared from the temporal walks of life , he devoted
all his time, thought and energy to his real calling, that of preaching
the gospel. Being a man of much physical strength he was equal to
all the hardships and trials incident to his ministerial labors , and
never under the most trying circumstances did he falter or com
plain . He travelled a great deal, but always found a hearty
welcome whenever he crossed the humble threshold of the pio
neer , be he Christian or infidel, Baptist or Methodist. They all knew
and loved “ Uncle Jimmy Barnes,” and his “ God bless you ! " when
once heard was seldom forgotten . In his old age he narrowed his
field of labor , and for many years seldom went beyond the limits of
Rocky Fork , Perche and Bourbon townships. He organized many
churches in an early day , old Gilead , in Rocky Fork township , being
one among the number. While venerable and dignified in bearing,
he yet possessed a jovial disposition , and was never so happy as when
promoting the happiness of others . He lived to have his second eye
sight, but was blind when he died . He scarcely knew , from his own
experience , what it was to be sick . When death came at last , it was
painless . Like the orb of day, this noble life went down to us , only
to rise on other shores. He died February 6 , 1875 , in the eighty
seventh year of his age.
DR . BENNETT H. CLARK , SR .
The subject of this sketch was born in Howard county , Missouri,

May 25th , 1825. He is the son of Bennett H. and Susan H. Clark ,
the latter a daughter of Gen. Stephen Triggs, who came to Missouri
about 1815. His parents were natives of Clark county , Kentucky,
but were reared in Montgomery county , that State . Dr. Clark was
raised on the farm , and acquired his education in Howard county ,
being placed in the Fayette High School at the age of seventeen , and
remaining there till he finished his course . He began the study of
medicine in Fayette under Dr. Charles R. Scott, in 1846 , and read
there about two years. He then went to the medical college at

Louisville, Kentucky, and graduated there in 1849. Immediately
on returning to Missouri, he began the practice at Fayette . The next
year, however , ( 1850 ) , he was borne off with the gold excitement, and
went to California , where he spent a year . Returning to Missouri in
1851, he located at Buena Vista , and was there married in May, 1852,
to Miss Elizabeth Winn , daughter of Charles H. and Eliza Winn .
Mrs. Clark was born February 1st , 1837 , on the farm where her
father still resides. Subsequently she and Dr. C. moved to the farm
where they now reside, at Middletown , in Rocky Fork township , and
here the doctor practices medicine and operates the farm conjointly .
Five out of seven children that were born to Mr. and Mrs. Clark still
survive . One son , Bennett H., Jr., is a graduate of the medical
department of the University, but is now settled on a farm in Boone
county , as is also his brother . During the civil war, Dr. Clark
enlisted in the Confederate army, in 1861, in the company commanded
by Captain Hicks. He was in the battle of Boonville , under Gen.
Marmaduke. In September , 1861, he was commissioned surgeon of
the 6th regiment of infantry , Missouri State Guards , his regiment
being in the third division commanded by his cousin , Gen. John B ..
Clark . In 1862 Dr. Clark was put into the regular Confederate
service and appointed assistant surgeon , and served for a time under
Gen. Hindman in Arkansas. He was then sent to Gen. Price, in
Missouri, and in 1864 was appointed regimentalsurgeon at Richmond ,
Virginia , and remained till the close of the war . He surrendered at
Jacksonport, Arkansas, and returned to his farm , where he has ever
since been engaged in the practice of his profession .
For several years Dr. Clark was postmaster at Middletown, and one
timemaster of the Union Temperance Lodge organized at that place .
He has been a Free Mason since 1846 , and he and his wife are both
members of the Christian church . The family to which Dr. Clark
belongs is one prominently known in this State, Virginia and
Kentucky. The civil and military record of his uncle and cousin ,
Generals John B. Clark , Sr. and Jr., is sufficiently well -known to
Missourians to need no comment bere .
Dr. Clark , though formerly a Whig , is now in the straight Democratic
harness, and votes no other ticket, nor affiliates with any other party .
RICHARD M. FLYNT.
Richard M. Flynt , though forty - five years of age , is a native of

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Boone county , and is now living at the old home where he was born
and raised. He is the son of Thomas and Susan C. Flynt, the former
a native of North Carolina , and the latter of Virginia . They first
emigrated to Callaway county , Missouri, in 1833, but remained there
only one year, removing in 1834 to Boone county , settling on the farm
where the subject of this sketch now lives . Thomas Flynt was born
in Stokes county , North Carolina , in 1794. His father was also
named Thomas. Richard M. bears. the name of an uncle who served
on the staff of Gen. Jackson during the war of 1812. Both of his
grandfathers served in the American army during the revolutionary
war. The subject of this sketch was born June 2d , 1837. He was
one of a family of seven children , two of whom died in childhood .
The oldest member of the family now living is the widow of John W.
Love, who died in the Federal army during the late civil war. The
other sister is the wife of John D. French . The oldest ofthe brothers ,
James W., went to California in 1850, and has never returned . He
is a bachelor. He is now living in White Pine county , Nevada.
Martin C. Flynt , the youngest brother , is a native of Audrain county .
He was a soldier in Cockrell's brigade during the late war, and was
twice wounded at the battle of Franklin , Tennessee . Richard M.
Flynt was with Price in his Missouri campaigns at the beginning of
the war . He was married on the 7th day of June, 1860, to Miss Mary
F., daughter of Mordecai and Arethusa Turner , of Boone county .

* They have seven children living and one dead . Their names are
Wilmuth Ann , Thomas M., Joseph F., Augusta Jane, William R.,
Warren A., Lena Mabel and an infant yet unnamed . Thomas M.
died in infancy. Their children are all living at home. Mr. and Mrs.
Flynt are members of the Baptist church at Grand View . Mr. Flynt
is also a member of the Masonic order . His home is situated sixteen
miles northeast of Columbia , and four miles southeast of Hallsville ,
which is his post-office . Thomas Flynt, the father of the subject of
this sketch , died in February , 1858 ; Mrs. Flynt died in the winter of
1866. They are both buried at Mt. Zion church , which was built on
land donated by Mr. Flynt, and the church was named by him . He
was a member of the Methodist Church South . Mrs. Flynt was a
member of the Regular Baptist church .
ROBERT BRATTON GAY .
Robert Bratton Gay was born in Clark county , Kentucky, Decem

ber 11th , 1834. His parents, John and Rebecca Gay, were born and
71
raised in Kentucky, but emigrated to Missouri in 1837 , when the sub

ject of this sketch was a small boy . They settled on a farm in Rocky
Fork township , the present abode of their son , Robert B. Gay, where
they lived and died . Mr. Gay was married , in 1861, to Miss Laura
F. Chrisman , a native of Boone county , born in 1840. She is the
daughter of Elijah and Jane A. Chrisman , Kentuckians, who emi
grated to Missouri in an early day . Elder Chrisman was one of the
pioneer preachers of the country , and has established several churches
in this and Callaway counties. He is still living and preaching to
some of the churches he established when he first came to the State .
He is seventy -nine years old . Mr. and Mrs. Gay have had four chil
dren , two of whom are living. Mr. Gay, his wife and one son are
members of the Christian church at Hickory Grove. They are well
to -do, prosperous farmers, living in that independent, joyous content
ment which seems ever to be the reward of virtuous lives and honest
toil.
DAVID NATHANIEL HALL
Was born in Albermarle county , Virginia , July 9th , 1831. His parents ,
John W.and Sarah H. Hall, moved to Missouri in 1836 , when David
was a small boy, bringing him with them . They settled at Hallsville,
in Boone county , where the subject of this sketch lived with them till
he was nineteen years old . He then went West to the mining dis
tricts of California , and was absent in that State and Oregon for three
years . Returning to this county , he was married , November 30 , 1853,
to Miss Melinda T. Asbury , a native of Boone county , born January
19 , 1833. Her parents were Calvin and Jane Asbury , who were born
and reared in Fleming county , Kentucky, and settled in this county
at an early day. Five children are the offspring of this marriage , one
son and four daughters. One of these only is married and the rest.
are at home at this writing , where their father lives , near Hallsville .
That village, by the way, was named in honor of this family . [See
general history of Boone county . ] Mr. Hall's paternal grandfather"
was a soldier in the war of the Revolution , but under whom he served
is not known . David received a common -school education , and has
made his way successfully in the world without the more advanced
education attainable to the present youthful generation of Boone
county . He owns a fine farm of 320 acres in Rocky Fork township ,
which he knows well how to cultivate . He is a good citizen , a careful
manager, and provides well for the support and education of his.
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family . His mother is still living , at an advanced age, two miles west
of Hallsville , on the place where his father died .
COLUMBUS D. HULEN .
Columbus D. Hulep is the son of John A.Hulen , a native of In

diana, who came to Missouri in 1835. The grandfather on the pater
nal side was Taylor Hulen , on the maternal side, Stephen Hulett .
Columbus D. was one of four children , being the only son of his par
ents. He was educated at the Missouri State University . He mar
ried Lucy V. Robinson, daughter of George Robinson , of Winchester ,
Clark county , Kentucky. They have two children , Lyman T. and
Lizzie B. After graduating in 1871, Mr. Hulen taught schoolfor two
terms when he went to farming and has followed that business ever
since . He owns a farm of 120 acres.
CICERO HOUSTON .
The subject of this sketch was born near Hallsville , Rocky Fork
township , Boone county , Missouri, July 18 , 1823. His father , Wm .
.L . Houston , was born in Rockbridge county , Virginia , removing with
his parents to Knoxville, Tennessee . From Knoxville , Mr. Houston
went to Hopkinsville, Kentucky , where he learned the hatter's trade,
and was married . His wife was born and raised in North Carolina .
It was while on a visit to friends in Kentucky that she first met Mr.
Houston whom she subsequently married . In 1818 Mr. Houston em
igrated to Missouri, settling near Hallsville , Boone county , his primi
tive home being isolated by the distance of five miles from the residence
of any human being of his own race . Here the old pioneer lived out
the remainder of his quiet, useful days. His wife , Rebecca , survived
him , finally dying at the residence of their son - in - law , James B. Reed ,
in Audrain county , Missouri, May 19, 1882, at the advanced age of
eighty- five years . Mr. Houston was the first hatter within the range
ofmany miles of Hallsville . He was a kind husband and father , but
austere in manner and of most solemn deportment . He was in the
organization of the first Christian church west of the Mississippi river .
He and his wife were of the original members of Old Red Top church
which still exists, being to -day ope of the most flourishing churches in
in the county . He was buried in the Red Top cemetery . Mr. Hous
ton was the first cousin of Sam Houston , “ the Washington of Texas ."
Cicero Houston was married first in 1849 to Miss Mary Ann Hall,
born in Albemarle county , Virginia , in 1830. She was the daughter
of John W.and Sally Hall, both of whom were raised in Virginia .

The parents of Mrs. Houston emigrated to Missouri in 1835 and set
tled near Hallsville , in Boone county. Her father was the first post
master at Hallsville , the office taking its name from him . Mrs.
Houston died April 20 , 1870 , leaving one child , a son , who at this
writing is married and lives near Hallsville . The subject of this
sketch was again married in 1874 , his second wife being Mrs. Maggie
Fenton , born 1832 , and raised in Boone county . She was the daugh
ter of John and Delila Connelly and widow of Andrew J. Fenton .
She had two children by her first marriage , one of whom is married ,
the other residing with Mr. Houston . Mr. Houston and his wife are
members of the Christian church , and have been since early youth .
Mr. Houston's first wife was also a member of the same church .
William L. Houston , son of Cicero Houston by his first wife , is a
graduate of the Missouri State University . He is now farming near
Hallsville . Both the elder and younger Houston are prosperous
farmers . They have about 500 hundred acres of land in Boone and
800 in Audrain county , Missouri, all of which is enclosed . Their
land is well adapted to the growth of wheat, corn , oats , hay , in fact
all crops indigenous to our climate. They handle considerable stock ,
their facilities for this business being very good . The elder Houston
has spent most of his life in the vicinity of Hallsville . He was a sol
dier under Gen. Price during the Mexican war , and afterwards spent
four years in California .
JOHN KARNES .
The subject of this sketch is a native of Boone county , Missouri.

He is the son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Vanclief ) Karnes , and was
born April 18 , 1838. Both his parents were natives of the Old Do
minion . His maternal relatives were of Holland origin , and related
to the Van Burens, of New York , one of whom , Martin Van Buren ,
was President of the United States . Thomas Karnes and Elizabeth
Vanclief were married in Virginia in 1832 , and came to Boone county

three years later. They settled on the head of the Two -mile prairie ,
being among the first settlers of that neighborhood . Mrs. Karnes
died in 1867, and Mr. Karnes in 1876. They were buried at Mt.
Zion church , in Rocky Fork township . They were both members of
the Methodist Church South . Four children were born to them , all.
of whom are now liviny. Harvey, the oldest, is at Eureka Springs ,
Arkansas ; Robert Payne lives on the old farm in Columbia town
:ship ; John , the subject of this sketch , lives in Rocky Fork township ;
Joseph Vanclief is practicing law in Kansas City . John Karnes was

married , June 25 , 1863, to Miss Sarah A. Potts of Nicholas county ,
Kentucky. She is the daughter of Henry T. and Lorana Potts.
Her father died in 1875. Her mother is still living in Kentucky .
Eight children have been born of this marriage , three sons and five
daughters. Their names are Jennie, Mattie, David C., Payne , Lo
rana , Fannie , Charles T. and Mary . David C. is dead. He was
buried with his grandparents at Mt. Zion . Mr. Karnes has lived in
Boone county all his life . He was educated at the State University
at Columbia , and studied law , but never practiced his profession .
He has a fine farm of three hundred and twenty acres , six miles south
of Centralia , which is his post-office and shipping point . The farm
is all in cultivation and is well improved . Mr. and Mrs. Karnes are
both members of the Methodist Church South . They worship with
the Mt. Zion congregation .
JOHN DUDLEY KEMPER .
The subject of this sketch is a son of Peter and Rebecca Kemper ,

and was born in Bourbon county , Kentucky, September 17, 1828 .
His parents were also both native Kentuckians, his father having
been born and raised in Fayette county , that State, and his mother
in Bourbon . They came to Missouri 'jn 1829, when John Dudley
was about a year old , and settled in this county , and continued to re
side here till the time of their death . Mr. Kemper was , therefore ,
reared and educated in Boone county . In February, 1852, on
the 17th day of that month , he was married to Miss Susan Frances
Ballinger, a native of this county , born February 19 , 1836. Her par
ents are James E. and Amánda Kemper, natives of South Carolina,
who came here at an early day and still reside in the county . Mr.
and Mrs. Kemper have had seven children, five of them still living,
three of them are married and settled on farms. Both Mr. and Mrs.
K. are members of the Old School Baptist church , and two of their
children belong to the same. He owns a large farm in Rocky Fork
township of nearly six hundred acres, and all, except forty acres, are
well improved , a large part of it being in a high state of cultivation .
Like many others now living in Boone county , Mr. Kemper came of a
stock of people whose ancestors fought for our freedom in the war of
the Revolution , his grandfather having served as a soldier in that
great struggle for liberty .
CHARLES WILLETT MASTERSEN
Is a native of Montgomery county, Kentucky, born April 25 , 1819 .

His parents were Jonathan and Mary Mastersen , the former a Penn
sylvanian , and the latter a Kentuckian , by birth . Charles W.moved
with his father's family to Menard county , Illinois, in 1835. They
settled on a farm , though the son spent most of his time working in
a woolen factory , and received his education in the common schools.
Hewas married September 30 , 1840 , to Miss Phæbe M. Houghton , a
native of Menard county, Illinois , born January 22, 1823. Her par
ents, Elijah and Catharine Houghton , were natives of New Jersey , the
mother being still alive, residing in Illinois, now at the advanced age
of 90 years. Mr. Mastersen and wife are the parents of thirteen
children , nine of them still living, eight of whom are members of the
Christian church . He and Mrs. M. have been members of the same
church for many years, he since he was sixteen , and she , from the
time she was fifteen years old . Mr. Mastersen has served one term as
commissioner of public schools in Boone county.
Two of his sons were in the Federal service during the war, one in
the cavalry service for four years , and the other three years in the artil
lery . Mr. M. owns a good farm of one hundred and fifty -eight acres,
all in cultivation , and forty acres of timbered land. His farm is well
adapted to raising the cereals common to this latitude , and Mr. M.
also produces live stock - horses, mules , cattle and swine. He is a
successful farmer and a good provider for the maintenance of his
family .
HENRY PALMER .
This gentleman was born in Clark county , Kentucky, June 22d ,

1809. His parents were James and Elizabeth Palmer, both of whom
were born and reared in Kentucky. They caine to this State when
Henry was young, and settled near where Sturgeon now is, remaining
in Boone county till the time of their death . Henry was raised on
the farm , and received his education chiefly in this county . He was
married in about 1844 to Mrs. Sarah Stevenson, a widow lady, whose
maiden name had been Ridgeway, a daughter of Zachariah and Sarah
Ridgeway , Kentuckians , who came to this State in an early day. She
had three children by her former marriage , but none by Mr. Palmer.
She died in 1879 , and Mr. P. was again married in 1881, to Mrs.
Margaret J. Wolf , widow of Thomas Wolf, and daughter of James
and Eliza Lampton , who came from Kentucky to this State in 1830 ,
-settling in Boone county , and residing here till their death .
Mr. Palmer had no children by either marriage , though his last wife
had ten children , four sons and six daughters by her first husband .
Mr. and Mrs. P. are both members of the Christian church , as was
also his first wife . He has been a member for about twenty -three
years , and was baptized and received into the church by Thomas
Allen . Mr. P. owns a good farm , which he cultivates successfully .
To these old settlers who came to the county as early as did Mr.
Palmer , it must be a great source of satisfaction to look back and
contrast the present with the past . The county which was then but
an unsettled wilderness , abounding with bear, deer, wolves and other
wild beasts of the forest , has been touched by the magic wand of
progress, wielded first by these pioneers, till now it blossoms as the
rose , and has become the home of thousands who now enjoy the fruit
of the toils and hardships endured by their first comers . Let us never
forget the debt of gratitude due to those who labored that we might
enjoy – the early pioneers of Boone county .
DR . J. W. POINTS .
The subject of this sketch is the son of Dr. Joseph Points , who was
born in Bourbon county , Kentucky , January 7th , 1797. His father
and mother , Arthur and Ellen Points , were old settlers of that State.
Joseph studied medicine in Fayette county , under Doctors Wither
:spoon and Ennis, and subsequently practiced his profession in that
locality , remaining in Fayette county until 1836 , when he came to
Boone county , Missouri, and bought the farm where the subject of this
sketch now resides . He continued the practice of medicine until his
death , July 28th , 1875. There are now over forty physicians actively
employed in the territory in which he once had the exclusive practice .
Hewas married in Fayette county , Kentucky, September , 1819 , to
Miss Sallie , daughter of Joseph and Nancy Robinson . Eleven child
ren , five sons and six daughters, were born ofthis marriage. Four of
the children are now living . Mrs. Points was born December 28th ,
1798 , and is still living , at the advanced age of eighty -four years, re
taining much of her former vigor and cheerfulness. Dr. J. W.Points,
the subject of this sketch , was born in Fayette county , Kentucky,
November 24th , 1834. When in his second year, his father removed
to Boone county , Missouri. He was educated at the common schools ,
and read medicine under his father and Dr. Lee Brown . He made
his home on the old Points ' homestead and has succeeded to a large
portion of his father's practice . He was married , December 7th ,
1855 , to Miss Cordelia A., daughter of Samuel and Jane Huddeston ,
of Boone county . They have two children , William H., and Mary
Elizabeth , who is now the wife of J. W.Grady , of this county. The
first wife dying in 1864 , Dr. Points was again married in 1874 , to
Mrs. Elizabeth Schell, of Cole county , Missouri. They have no chil
dren by this marriage. Dr. Points has been a citizen of Boone county
all his life , except about six years spent in Cole county , Missouri. He
is a member of the Methodist Church South . His father was likewise
a zealous member of the same church . His mother is also a
Methodist.
GEORGE WASHINGTON REAMS .
George W. Reams was born in Fleming county , Kentucky. His

father, John Rearcs, was a native of Pittsburg , Pennsylvania , and of
German origin . George W. was one of twelve children , six of each
sex . He came with his parents to Boone county , Missouri, in the
year: 1839 , and settled near the spot where he now lives. The
mother of Mr. Reams was of Irish origin . Her maiden name was
Swain . The country was thinly settled when they came to Boone
county and their experience was about the same as those who emi
grated at an earlier date . The subject of this sketch had attended
school for a few months before leaving Kentucky — for the rest of his
education , he is indebted to no one but himself. He commenced
life without anything but health , strength and indomitable energy.
He now owns 600 acres of fine land, well improved , mostly in grass .
He is a member of the Methodist Church South . He was married
in 1849 to Miss Polly A., daughter of Charles Helm , of Crab Orchard ,
Kentucky, who died a few years ago . They have had eight children ,
four of whom are living . Their names are Francis, Elizabeth , John
M. and Mary B.
JUDGE WM . F. ROBERTS .
William Franklin Roberts is a native of Boone county , and was.

born in Rocky Fork township , November 22d , 1831. His parents ,
John and Annie Roberts, were natives of Madison county , Kentucky ,
and came to this county at an early day . Judge Roberts' grand
parents also were Kentuckians , and came early to this county , and
died in the township where the subject of this sketch resides.
William was reared on a farm in the locality of his present residence ,
and received such education as the common schools of that day
-
afforded . His education , however, did not cease with his school days ,
but has been furthered and enlarged by close and systematic read
ing and study , to which he has devoted considerable timethrough life .
In 1850 , in his nineteenth year , young William Franklin went over
land across the plains to California . He was there nearly four
years, engaged in mining for three years, and in merchandising the
rest of the timo, having bought out the stock of the well known - Old
Uncle Abraham Barnes ," on the Middle Yuba . He sold out in 1853
and , while collecting up ,met with a singular adventure . The Digger
Indians tried to rob him while he was travelling alone between Middle
and North Yuba . He escaped by a free use of his spurs and a shot.
from his Colt’s navy , which probably sent one Digger into the happy
hunting grounds. Returning in December following , he located on
his farm in Rocky Fork , where he has ever since resided . Mr.
Roberts' wife , whose maiden name was Miranda Asbery , is a native
of the sametownship as himself, born July 11th , 1836. Her father
died there in 1881. Mr. R. and wife are the parents of nine children ,
seven of whom still survive. The oldest son , Jasper Newton , received
a thorough business education at the Commercial College , of Savannah ,
Missouri, and is now married and settled on a farm . The Judge , his
wife, and the four surviving children are members of the Christian
church . He has been a member for about thirty -five years, and she
twenty -two years.' In 1862 , Mr. R. was ordained an elder in the
church , and still holds the position , having done , in his time, some
very effective preaching, always laboring faithfully for the interest
and welfare of his church and the cause of religion generally . He is
a member of the Hallsville Lodge , No. 336 , of the Free Masons , hav
ing been in fellowship for twenty -two years , filling some important
positions therein . In the Royal Arch Chapter , he has held the
position of scribe and king . He also belongs to the A. O. U. W.,
and Knights of Pythias. In 1878 , Mr. Roberts was elected a
member of the county court, and reëlected in 1880. He was
Southern in sympathy during the civil war , and in 1861, vol

unteered , under Gov. Jackson's call, in the State Guards, and par
ticipated in the battles of Lexington and Dry Wood . Receiving a
captain's commission , he then went into the regular Confederate ser
vice in November following , and was sent out to recruit . He raised a
company of sixty men and started South , but was detained in Boone
county by Col. McKinney , till December . They had an engagement
at Mt. Zion church with a number of Gen. Prentiss's men , the Con
federates only numbering about 300. ( See full account on other

pages of this history .) Here his company disbanded till June, 1862,
Capt. Roberts going into the secret service of the Confederacy , with a
colonel's commission , and so continuing until the close . Judge Rob
erts owns a fine farm of 530 acres in Rocky Fork township , all well
improved , which he has supplied with high grades of live stock . He
is a successful farmer, and provides well for the education and sup
port of his interesting family .
JOHN ROBERTS
Is a native of Madison county , Kentucky, born December 15th ,

1817 , and is a son of William M.and Martha Roberts , both of whom
were natives of Kentucky, and descended from the pioneer families
that came at an early day from Virginia to that State. The father of
John (Wm . M.) was drafted for service in the war of 1812 , but
managed to procure a substitute . John was reared on a farm , and
received his education in the common schools of the country . In
1827 he was brought to this State and county by his parents, and settled
iu Rocky Fork township , when the county was new and comparatively
unsettled . Wild game —-elks, deer , bears and wolves — were
abundant ,and the Roberts family helped to rid the country of such pests
as wolves and snakes . The Indians were still in the country , but had
ceased to be hostile . Mr. Roberts was married in September , 1839,
to Miss Nancy Johnson, daughter of Anderson and Edith Johnson ,
who were reared in Kentucky and came to Missouri in about 1814 .
The wife is a native of Missouri, and was born in 1818 , reared on a
farm and educated in the schools of that primitive period . Eight chil
dren have been born to this couple, two sons and six daughters , the
former , and four of the latter, still living at this writing . Three of
the surviving daughters are married , and two of those deceased were
also married . The entire family are members of the Christian church ,
Mr. Roberts and wife having been members about forty years, having
joined the Red Top church , of which they are at present members ,
under the preaching of an old Kentucky preacher named Elijah Chris
man . Mr. Roberts owns a farm ofone hundred and eighty -three acres of
good land, one hundred and sixty acres ofwhich are improved and well
adapted to raising wheat, corn , hay, oats , etc. Like all farmers of
this section , Mr. Roberts produces live stock as well as cereals and
lighter produce . He has raised an exemplary family , whose good
moral habits in temperance, virtue, good associations and freedom
- - -
from profanity are remarked by all who know them , and not one of
them has ever been called upon to answer for any violation of church
discipline, all of which should make Mr. Roberts feel honored , both
as a parent and a citizen .
WILLIAM P. ROBINSON .
William P. Robinson is a native of Boone county , having been born

in Columbia township in 1839. His father , Michael Robinson , was a
native of Virginia , born July 1, 1786 . He was twice married . He
was first married to Mary Magee, July 4 , 1809. Eight children were
born of this marriage : Robert B., Hugh Magee, Walter, Virginia,
Hugh Myms, Lucy , Michael M.and John . Michael M. and John are
the only children of the first wife now living. Mrs. Mary (Magee )
Robinson was born June 22, 1785 , and died November 3 , 1837. Mi
chael Robinson was again married April 5 , 1838 , to Miss Mary C.
Phillips. Three children were born of this marriage : William P.
( subject of this sketch ) , Henry T. and Addison A. They are all liv
ing . Michael Robinson died July 5 , 1847, and was buried in Colum
bia township . Mrs. Mary C. Robinson died October 20 , 1878. She
is buried at Mt. Zion church . William P. Robinson was married ,
April 16 , 1861, to Miss Sallie A., daughter ofMordecai and Arethusa
Turner , of Boone county . Five children were born of this marriage :
George W., Mary J., Lucy E., Mordecai T. and William L., all liv
ing . Mrs. Robinson died September 3 , 1877, and is buried at Mount
Zion church . The eldest daughter, Mary , is the wife of J. F. Ed
wards, of Audrain county , Missouri. The other children are at home
with their parents. Mr. Robinson was again married , September 23 ,
1880 , to Miss Elizabeth , daughter of John and Elizabeth King , of
Boone county , formerly of Jasper county , Missouri. Mr. Robinson
is a practical farmer, and owns a fine farm of 200 acres on the Cen
tralia and Jefferson City road , seven and one -fourth miles south of
Centralia and four and a half miles west of Hallsville . He took no
part in the late civil war. The battle of Mount Zion , between Gen.
Prentiss and Col. Dorsey, began at his house, where a party of Con
federates were eating their breakfast. Mr. Robinson was greatly ex
posed , and was shot through the clothing, but escaped unhurt. He
is not a church member . Mrs. Robinson is a member of the Method
ist church .
SAMUEL MILTON STEVINSON
Was born in Clark county , Kentucky, January 30 , 1826. His

pa
parents, Isaac and Lucinda Stevinson , were natives of the same
(Clark ) county, and moved to Boone county , this State , in 1858,
settling in Rocky Fork township , where the father died , and the
mother still resides at the advanced age of eighty -seven years .
Samuel was reared fon a farm , receiving his education in the common
schools of the country . He was married in Montgomery county ,
Kentucky, June 19, 1849 , to Miss Edith Britton, daughter of David
and Rebecca Britton , and moved to Missouri in 1852, locating on the
farm on which he still resides in Rocky Fork . Here his chief voca
tion has been that of farming and stock raising . Mr. and Mrs. Ste
vinson are the parents of thirteen children — ten boys and three girls —
of whom eight sons and two daughters are still living, one son mar-.
ried and farming in California , and two sons in business at Seligman ,
near Eureka Springs . Both parents and three of the children are
members of the Christian church . Mr. S. was baptized about thirty
years ago by Samuel Rogers , and received into the church by him .
Mrs. S. has been a member about the same length of time, “ Rac
coon ” John Smith , of Kentucky , administering baptism in her case .
These people have lived thirty years on their farm , and there reared
their large family . Mr. S. was not in the civil war, but gave his at
tention to farming , in which he has been successful as a raiser of
grain and other produce , besides horses , mules, sheep, etc., those
staples which mark the successful producer in this latitude.
WILLIAM THOMAS SUMMERS
Is a native of Clarke county , Kentucky, born May the 4th , 1829.

His parents , William and Sallie Summers, were also born in Ken
tucky, but came to this State and county in 1851, and settled near
Middletown , where they lived till 1865. They then moved to John
Summers's , their son , and lived with him till their death , the father
dying in 1875 and the mother in 1876. The subject of this sketch
did not come to Missouri till 1853, two years after his parents came.
He was married in Boone county , April 10 , 1855, to Miss Sallie A.
Hulen , a daughter of John C. and Sallie Hulen , and born in Ken
tucky, September 10 , 1837. Her parents were likewise Kentuckians,
and came to this State in 1843. Mr. S. and wife were reared on a
farm , and have mostly resided on the farm . In 1855 he sold goods.
in Hallsville , but since that time has been farming and dealing in live
stock . Four boys and five girls have been born to Mr. and Mrs.
Summers , all of whom survive except one son . The oldest daughter ,
- -
-
-- - --
Mary B., was educated at Camden Point, Mo., and since then has
taught successfully in the schools of Boone county for six years.

She is now the wife of a thrifty farmer living on Grand
prairie , east of Hallsville . The second daughter , Nettie B.,
graduated from the normal department of the University in 1879,

and has also been teaching in the schools of Boone county
for four years. Still another daughter attended Christian Col
lege for one year , and George R., the oldest son , graduated
from Jones's Commercial College, in St. Louis , and is now in the
mercantile business at Hallsville , all of which shows the appreciation
of the Summers family for education and learning. Mr. Summers ,
wife and three daughters are members of the Christian church , the
former having been a member for twenty -one years and Mrs. S. for
over thirty years. Mr. S. was in the late civil war about one year ,
and served under Gen. Price , participating in the battles of Lexing
ton , Dry Wood and Pea Ridge. His grandfather was also a soldier,
and did service in the war of 1812 , under Gen. Harrison . Mr. Sum
mers owns 240 acres of land , about 170 of which he has improved
into a comfortable home. He is a gentleman of the old school in
point of liberality and charity , and his many generous acts are re
membered in grateful recognition by the recipients .
JOHN TOALSON .
This gentleman is a native of old Boone, born December 18 , 1816 ,

when Boone formed a part of Howard county. John is the son of
William and Mary Toalson, the former a native of Virginia , but both
reared in Kentucky. After his marriage, the father moved to Mis
souri, first locating near Fayette, in Howard county , and then re
moving to what is now Boone in 1816 , settling one mile south of
where William Toalson now lives . After several other removals, all
in Boone county , the father finally settled four miles north of Colum
bia , where he died in 1841. At the time of the first coming of the
Toalsons, Boone county , then almost an unsettled wilderness,
abounded in wild game and Indians. John remembers well the time
when his father used to hunt with the red men of the forest , who
were for a long timeperfectly friendly till they were driven out by
the uprising of the settlers , after having committed some outrages
that the pale-faces would not brook . · Though it can not be said that
so locusts and wild honey were the so ineat of those early settlers ,
it can be truthfully said that bear's meat and wild honey were the
chief food on which they for a time subsisted . The subject of this
sketch , after receiving a common school education , was united in mat
rimony, in 1844, to Nancy Allen , a native of Madison county , Ken
tucky , born July 4 , 1827, and a daughter of Temple and Polly Allen ,
who came to Missouri in 1831. Twelve children were born to bless
this union , seven sons and five daughters, five of the former and three
of the latter still surviving. One son and one daughter are married
and living in the southern part of the State. A son and a daughter
were educated at Sweet Springs, Mo. , and still another son is tele
graph operator at Plattsburg , Mo. The entire family , except two of
the children , are members of the Christian church . Mr. T. and wife
have been members of the Red Top church for upwards of forty
years . Two sons belong to the Masonic fraternity , one at Centralia

and one at Hallsville. During the civil war, Mr. Toalson was for a
short time in the Confederate service, and participated in the fights at
Dry Wood and Lexington . He owns 217 acres of land , 160 acres
improved , and well adapted to producing all the cereals of this cli
mate . Mr. T. is now nearly sixty - five years old , having spent the
most of his time right here in Boone. He has four children still liv
ing with him to comfort and to cheer the declining years of that
father who has endured toil and hardship that they , his children ,
might enjoy the fruits of his labor.
JOHN DODRIDGE WILLIAMS
Was born in Boone county , Missouri, March 30th , 1830. His father ,
Isaac, and his mother, Dorcas Williams, were natives of Pennsylva
nia , but came to this State at an early day and settled in Rocky Fork
township , this county , two miles from where John D. now lives. His
father and uncle were in the war of 1812 , under Com . Perry , serving
till their discharge at the close of hostilities. It was by “ laying
the land warrant given his father by government, that Mr. Williams
got possession of the farm on which he first settled , on Young's creek .
John was reared on a farm , and , in 1850, married Miss Eliza Williams,
daughter of Elder James Williams. She was born in this county , July
6th , 1831. They have three children , and two deceased . Samuel L.
Williams, their son , was educated at the University in Columbia .
Soon after his marriage, Mr. Williams located on a farm two miles
east of Columbia , where he lived till 1862, when he moved to the
place of his present residence , in Rocky Fork . Mr. W. and wife
have been members of the Christian church for many years , and he
has served as deacon . They saw some exciting scenes during the
war ,among which was the killing of Dr. Angell by the Federals , right
at Mr. Williams's gate . Mr. W. owns a farm of 142 acres , well im
proved, and in a good state of cultivation .
CHAPTER XXIII,
BOONE COUNTY LIVE STOCK INTERESTS .
Caille. Fielding W. Smith's Herd – Forest Park Herd — Estes' Greenwood Farm
Glenwood Farm - Eagle Park Herd - Horses. The Kinloch Stud of J.Lucas Turner
J. Stice's Stud - J. 8. Croswhite - C. B. Hulen - Sheep . McQuitty's Flock - Bass's.
Flock .
By special request of some of the citizens of the county interested

in stock growing and breeding, the subjoined department on the stock
interests is added to the history , for the information and benefit of any
and all persons who take an interest in or derive a profit from this great
department of Western production . It is the purpose in the following
article to give names and location of breeders, the kind of stock han
dled , with pedigree , etc., of the finer class of animals ; it. being un
necessary in this department to give adaptability of climate and
surroundings to the breeding of particular kinds of stock , that having
been generally set forth in the general history department. Boone as
a stock county and Boone county men as stock -men are perhaps as
widely known as any in this State , the agricultural fairs in Central
Missouri being never without a creditable representation from Boone.
CATTLE .
F. W. Smith's Herd . — Foremost among the most successful im

porters and breeders of fine cattle is Mr. Fielding W.Smith , of Perche
township , near Woodlandville. Previous to 1879 Mr. Smith was a
breeder of short-horns , but having heard of the merit of the Herefords.
over other breeds, he determined to test the matter for himself . AC
cordingly , at the St. Louis Fair, of 1879 , he purchased of T. L.Miller
the Hereford bull calf, Dictator , 1989, then ten months old . The
offspring of this bull from short-horn and high -grade cows proved to
be of the most thrifty and satisfactory kind , both as to proportions and
rapid and healthy growth ; and Mr. Smith readily found sale for his
bull calves from Dictator at eighty dollars each . In the spring of

1881 Mr. Smith went to Beecher, Illinois , to view the Hereford herd
of Mr. Miller , just after the arrival of his large importation from Eng
land . He was much pleased with the herd , and purchased three cows
(with calf) and one heifer calf for $ 2,000 . The same year he had an
increase from them of two heifers and one bull calf. There will be a
further increase this year ( 1882 ) , all of which will be from sire Dic
tator. This proves the Hereford cows to be good breeders, and the
manner in which calves thrive shows them to be excellent nursers .
They are easy feeders , laying on flesh rapidly, and when slaughtered
their beef is very choice . They have thick hides , protecting them
well in both winter and summer . Dictator is a red bull with white
face , calved November , 22 , 1878 ; bred by T. L. Miller , Beecher , Illi
nois. His sire was Seventy -six (American Herd Book , 1093 ) , and
his dam was Victoria ( Ainerican Herd Book , 1053).
Mr. Smith's fine Hereford cow , Countess 9th , is a red , with white
face, animal, calved May 2, 1877 , bred by T. Middleton , Shropshire ,
England . She was sired by Baron 4th (English Herd Book , 4326 ),
and her dam was Countess 6th (Eng. H. B. ) . A further pedigree of
these superior animals may be found in the American and English
Herd Books.
Mr. Smith sold one bull calf at a good price in the summer of 1882,
leaving his herd of Herefords numbering eight. He has of short
horns and grades about fifty head of as fine cattle as any in the West .
Besides his cattle interests , Mr. S. is also a breeder of fine Cotswold
sheep , but no pedigrees or other particulars have been furnished .
Forest Park Herd . — This famous herd is owned by H. T. Curtright
& Sons, who are located on Forest Park farm , six miles southeast of
Columbia , near Bonne Femme church , on the gravel road to Ashland .
Mr. Curtrightmoved there in 1855, and broughtwith him from Bour
bon county , Kentucky , fourteen head of short-horn cattle, including
Bolingbroke, 7596 , bred by Abe Renick , of Kentucky, and also the
imported cow Amazon , by New Market ( 10563) , perhaps the finest
imported cow ever brought to the State . She was a noble animal, and
produced four bulls before becoming barren . Mr. C. sold her to Maj.
Jenkins for $ 1,000 . He continued to breed on a limited scale till re
cently , when he associated his sons with him and enlarged his herd
with some fine breeds, among which are Rose of Sharons, Young
Marys, Belinas, Red Roses, Rubies and other noted families . These
are being bred to Grand Duke of Sharon , owned by Parker & Co.,
--
and one of the best bulls ever bred by the famous old breeder , Abe
Renick . For thirty years Mr. C. has been breeding Cotswold sheep ,
and for eight years has been importing from Canada , the largest num
ber for any one year being 223 head . Mr. Curtright is wholly enrapt
in the business of breeding, and will doubtless live and die a producer
of short- horns and long wool, preferring that to any other vocation .
Joseph Estes's Greenwood Farm . - This stock -farm is located four
miles east of Columbia , and its energetic proprietor has done his full
share towards improving the stock of the county . Mr. Estes has
been a breeder of short- horn cattle and Berkshire hogs for twenty
years, bringing some choice breeders of the former from Kentucky,
in 1853, ?55 and '56. Also again in 1869, and as late as 1874 , he
made importations of such animals as the bull, Duke of Stoner ,
A. H. B., 6691, sired by Clifton Duke, 3760 , dam Bride Third , by
imported Duke of Airdrie, E. H. B., 12730 , tracing to imported
Rose by Skipton . His Fourteenth Duke of Goodness, A. H. B.,
13949, was sired by that noted Duke bull, Fourteenth Duke of
Thorndale, A. H. B., 8031 ; dam , Seventh Duchess of Goodness, by
Duke of Airdrie , 2743, tracing to imported Goodness by Orontes ,
E.H. B., 4623 ; also Col. Cook , bred by W.A. Cook , and sired by iin
ported John O'Gaunt, A.H. B., 11621 ; dam Magnolia . Among Mr.
Estes' fine cows were Lady Franklin Third , by Grand Duke, A. H. B.,
2933 ; Fourth Duchess of Goodness , by imported Duke of Airdrie
( 12730 ) ; Goodness Fifth , sired by Duncan's Duke of Airdrie ,
A. H. B., 2743 , dam Goodness Fourth , by Orontes , A. H. B., 4210 .
Mr. Estes has had several other fine pedigreed animals in his importa
tions , from which his present Greenwood herd is descended . At this
time, his herd numbers twenty-five , at the head of which is Phil
Chew (A. H. B. 44551, S. H. R. 7779) are among the finest sires
in the State . Mr. Estes has raised and sold one hundred head of these
fine breeders, and his chief pride is in his superb live stock .
Glennwood Farm . - This, one of the finest stock farms in Boone,
is located at the head of Two-mile prairie , ten miles from Columbia ,
and is owned by Mr. R. P. Glenn . It is to be regretted that informa
tion from his herds has been so meagerly supplied . Mr.Glenn keeps
about thirty head of fine short-horn breeders, besides a flock of the
finest Cotswold sheep , and a supply of pure Berkshire hogs. In 1871
he imported five cows and a bull from Mason county , Kentucky, bought
of Robert Page , and he purchased of A. Beich cows got by Duke of
Mason and bred by Mr. Abe Renick . They are of the Cambria and
72
Harriet families . The last bull Mr. Glenn has used in his herd is
Pearl Duke, sired by Lord of the Manor , bred by Hall & Taylor , of
Paris, Kentucky. Mr. Glenn raises and feeds from fifty to one hun
dred head of mules every year. He keeps always on hand a lot of
high grade cows.
“ Eagle Park ” Herd of Jerseys - Is a prominent feature in the
live stock interests of Boone county . This herd , the property of
Gen. O. Guitar, is located on his stock and dairy farm , “ Eagle Park ,"
one mile south of Columbia , and adjoining the State Agricultural
farm , and consists of forty females and five bulls. The foundation
of this collection is the prize herd of imported cows exhibited by
Messrs. Churcham & Jackson , of Indianapolis , at the St. Louis Fair ,
in 1878 , where , in competition with nine ' other selected herds.
from six different States , they bore off the great herd prize , although
there was not a cow in the lot above three years old . These animals
were selected on the Island of Jersey , by Mr. Jackson , aided by the
superior judgment of Mr. Mackie , president , and Mr. Waring, sec
retary of the American Jersey Cattle Club , and no care or expense was
spared in securing the finest specimens of the breed that Island could
afford . To this herd Gen. Guitar has added from time to time fifteen
other females , drawn from the best herds in the country, and of the
most noted strains of blood , and some of these cows were in the
prize herd at St. Louis in 1877. These animals and their produce
constitute the present herd . Among the great prize cowsmay be men
tioned Valentine of Trinity , dam Milkmaid 3d, No. 4 , J. H. B .;
sire Duke 76 , being half-sister to Grey King, sire of Farmer's Glory ,
being the granddaughter of Milkmaid 95 , J. H. B., she being the
g . g . dam of Cuomassie . This cow is a 16 -pound cow , and is be
lieved to combine a richer admixture of blood than any other cow
on the continent. This cow can hardly be called exceptional in the
herd , as there are many others of blood and lineage almost as rich .
There is imported Princess 2d , dam Princess , sire Noble , 104, J. H. B.
The same blood of Princess sold recently for $4,800, the highest
price ever paid for a Jersey cow . This cow has a daughter now three
years old , by Lebrony's Prize , a very gem , making twelve pounds
of butter at three years old . In addition , there are three other im
ported cows, tracing to Neptune and other distinguished sires, and
six cows descended from Corona , 1796 , by Potomac, 153, all of them
solid calvers, and of the highest butter qualities. The bulls now
used in the herd are the prize bulls imported Knight of St. Louis ,
sired by a grandson of Coomassie , his sons Crown Prince , out of

Princess by Noble, and Alphero , tracing through his grandsire Polo
nius to Alphea , and through his granddam Couch's Lily to Pansy .
It is admitted on all hands that three such specimens of their race ,
combining such rare and varied blood, are not to be found on the con
tinent .' In addition to the prizes already referred to , Gen. Guitar
took the great herd prize at the St. Louis Fair in 1880, the herd
being headed by the Knight of St.Louis. There were many very fine
herds in competition from different States , and among them one gotten
up expressly for show and advertising purposes by H. S. Cooper ,
of Pennsylvania , headed by the bull Chelton Duke. This victory was
won at the hands of a unanimous committee . Gen. Guitar's arrange
ments for breeding and dairy purposes are all modern , and his butter
brings the highest prices in the market . He has offered no females
for sale yet, desirous to breed his herd up to fifty productive cows.
He is breeding bulls, however , of the highest type of their breed .
His herd is an honor to the county , and a most valuable acquisition
to the " Great West and its results will be found interwoven with
the future history of the great dairy interests of the West .
HORSES .
The Kinloch Stud . - The Kinloch stud is located near Columbia ,

and is the property of Mr. J. Lucas Turner, whose imported Athlete
is the lord of the harem . He is a chesnut horse , 15.2 hands high ,
was foaled in 1872, is by Gladiateur, dam Rose of Kent, by Kingston ,
second dam England's Beauty (dam of Silver Hair, the dam of Silvio ,
who won both Derby and St. Leger in 1877 ) , by Irish Birdcatcher out
of Prairie Bird , by Touchstone, etc. Gladiateur the sire of Athlete , is
the only horse that ever won the Two Thousand Guineas, Derby , St.
Leger and Grand Prix de Paris . Athlete was bred by the great
Blenkiron at the Middle Park stud, Eltham , Kent, England. He is a
fine horse , of good shape, and from his breeding his colts ought to be
winners, and should make a mark in Missouri, for which its future
citizens will owe an eternal debt of gratitude to the enterprise shown
by Mr. Turner in his purchase .
The matrons of the Kinloch stud cannot be excelled in blood and
racing lineage . Barbary (dam of Robert Bruce , a prominent candi
date for the Kentucky Derby in 1882) is a brown mare , foaled in
1874 , by imp . Bonnie Scotland , dam Tallulah , by Planet ; second
dam Mazurka (dam of Zoo -Zoo ) , by Lexington out of Miss Morgan ,
by imp . Yorkshire , etc. Barbary foaled March 8, 1882 , a brown filly,

by Rhadamanthus , and has stinted to imp. Athlete. Bryonia , dam of
Bessie Belle, is a bay mare , foaled in 1873 , by Jack Malone, dam
Arnica , by Asteroid ; second dam Iodine (own sister to Martha
Dunn ) , by imp . Sovereign ; third dam by Stockholder , son of Sir
Archy. Bryonia , has stinted to imp. Athlete . Engenia is a chestnut
mare , foaled in 1869, hy Jack Malone ; first dam , a Shark mare , by
Tilghman ( son of Hannibal by imp . Priam and Prunella by imp.
Priam ) ; second dam , Fleet, by Shark ( son of Am . Eclipse ) out of
Ariadne , by Bertrand. Eugenia foaled a chestnut filly April 22 , 1882,
by Bold Tom , son of Tom Bowling, and has stinted to imp .Athlete .
Eurydice is a brown mare , foaled in 1876 , by imp. Leamington ,
sire of Iroquois, who won the English Derby in 1881 ; dam Maud, by
imp. Australian , second dam Martha Buford , by Wagner out of Cub ,
by Modɔc , etc. Eurydice has stiuted to imp. Athlete . Sally Edwards
is a bay mare , foaled in 1874 , by Panic ( son of imp. Glencoe ) , dam
Optima (dam of Peru ), by imp. Knight of St. George ; second dam
Glenluce , by imp. Glencoe ; third dam by Am . Eclipse, etc. Sally
Edwards is with foal by Elaud (son of Jack Malone). She will be
put to imp. Athlete . Volante is a brown mare , foaled in 1872, by
Vandal, dam Belladonna , by Brown Dick ; second dam Anodyne, by
imp. Albion , out of Anu Chase ( sister to Sarah Bladen , Jennie Breeze ,
and others ), by imp. Leviathan , etc. Volante foaled , April 10 , 1882,
a bay filly , by Rhadamanthus , and has been put to imp . Athlete .
Arcadia is a chestnut mare, foaled in 1876 , by John Morgan, dam
Sally Crow , by imp. Albion ; second dam Ann Chase (sister to
Sarah Bladen , Jennie Breeze and others ) , by imp. Leviathan, out of
Morgiana ( sister to Jennie ), by Pacolet , etc. Arcadia is with foal by
Eland (son of Jack Malone ). She will be covered by imp. Athlete .
Bazique is a chestnut filly , foaled in 1880 , by imp. Bonnie Scotland ,
dam Minerva , by John Morgan ; second dam , Mary Gowen ( dam of
John A. Norton ), by Childe Harold ; third dam , by imp . Priam , etc.
Mr. Turner is exercising sound discretion in not commencing with
too large a number of mares. To obtain the best results procurable
from a stallion such as Athlete , great care has to be taken , in selecting
mares of such strains as will nick with his blood . Athlete as a foal
at foot of Rose of Kent, in the Eltham paddock , displayed every
promise. Like West Australian , and many others of the best horses
of modern times , Gladiateur has been no great success at the stud , but
it is believed , that with a carefulchoice of his mares , he is yet destined
-
to shine through Athlete in the same way that West Australian has
in the United States done through Australian , Faugh -a-Ballagh
through Leamington , and King Tom through his son , Phaeton .
John C. Stice - Located on his farm near Dripping Spring, in Per
che township , has paid considerable attention to draft- stock breeding.
In about 1874 he purchased a fine two year old stallion from John
Pollard , of Randolph county . The horse was one of great power and
muscle , of the Sampson -Arabian stock , and stood sixteen hands high
at two years old . The dam was a Whip and Morgan , brought from
Kentucky. About a year later he bought a fine Illinois jack , which
proved to be a fine breeder, and was sire to some of the best mules in
the county . After thoroughly testing the breeding qualities of these
animals to the satisfaction of every one, he disposed of them and pur
chased a coal-black stallion sixteen and a half hands high , and four
years old , weighing sixteen hundred pounds. The horse had a fine
carriage and style generally . He was sired by Rattler Morgan , and
he by Green Mountain Black Hawk , his dam by Old Highlander , and
her dam by Messenger Grand Duke, and he by Cherokee , also having
some Norman blood in him . This was one of the finest colts ever
brought to Missouri. Mr. Stice also purchased of A. Winn , of Boone
county, a fine young jack , bred by Mr. Winn from stock that has
never been surpassed for style , bone and muscle . He shows fine
colts, some of which are premium stock . Mr. Stice has always made
a practice of giving premiums on the best colts sired by his animals ,
in order to stimulate breeders to take good care of stock , thereby im
proving the grade and quality . Mr. Stice's book for the season of
1882 , shows $ 1,250 booked from this source . He has bis farm well
stocked with good grades of cattle, hogs and sheep , and never fails to
concern himself actively in behalf of stock improvement .
1. S. Croswhite — Of the vicinity of Sturgeon , owns one of the best
saddle stallions ever brought from Kentucky. Montrose is a mahog
any bay , sixteen hands high , and pretty as a picture . He is of fine
blood, being sired by Gay's Denmark , and he by Gaines's Denmark ,
son of the famous racer Denmark ; 1st dam ly Hill's Glencoe ; 2d
dam by Postboy ; 3d dam by Jenkins' Sir William ; 4th dam by im
ported Diomede ; 5th dam by imported St. George ; 6th dam by im
ported Fearnaught . Montrose is a premium stallion , and took the
sweep -stakes prize at Paris in 1880, as the best saddle stallion of any
age , and has also taken the premium at the St. Louis Fair , as best
saddle stallion .
C. B. Hulen ' – Of Sturgeon , owns a fine jet-black Stallion ,

Blackbird , sixteen and a half hands high, bred and raised in
Montgomery county , Kentucky, and of the best “ all purpose
horses to be found anywhere . He is of the old Cannon Whip and
Calk's Halcorn stock . Mr. Hulen is also a great stock trader , buyer
and shipper. Sturgeon is one of the most famous stock -shipping
points of its size in this State , and Mr. Hulen and numerous other
dealers there contribute , by their liberal purchases, to make it one
of the best markets on that line of road .
SHEEP .
McQuitty's Flock . — Mr. D. W.McQuitty , of Missouri township ,

began to breed sheep in 1874. He imported his first flock of Span
ish -Merinos from Ohio in 1877, which were of the Atwood & Robin
son blood , of Vermont . Iv 1882, he imported a flock of the same
blood from Vermont, the pedigrees of which are entered in the
Vermont Sheep Register . His stock buck , Eureka, whose sire was
imported direct from Spain , was purchased by Mr. McQuitty from J.
James, of Middlebury , Vermont, and the rest from S. James and W.
W. Peet, both of whom were breeders of Spanish -Merino sheep .
Mr. McQuitty makes a specialty of these breeds, first, for size ;
second , for constitution ; third , for length and fourth for weight of
wool.
Bass's Flock . – William H. Bass , of Cedar township ( now of

Columbia ) , brought the first Southdown sheep to Boone county in
1855. This was , perhaps, the first importation of Southdown into
this State .
It is not pretended that this brief chapter is anything like a full
statement of the live-stock interests of this county ; but it embodies
such an outline as could be gleaned from the meagre notes furnished .
Many persons were written to in various parts of the county who did
not respond, consequently they cannot complain because no mention
is made of their stock . Boone is one of the best stocked counties in
Missouri, and comesmore nearly up to “ old Kentucky ” realizations

than any of her sisters .
1 Since deceased .
LIST OF BOONE COUNTY OFFICIALS FROM 1822 TO 1882.

LEGISLATURE .
State Senators .
1822-26 . A , J. Williams. 1850-54. Samuel A. Young.
1826-80 . Richard Gentry . 1856-60. L. W. Robinson .
1830–34. Wm . Jewell. 1860–62. Charles H. Hardin .
1834-38 . A. M. Robinson . 1862–66 . Jas. M.Gordon .
1838–40. T. C. Maupin . 1866-68. Paul Hubbard .
1838-40. A. W. Turner. ' 1868–72. Jas. S. Rollins.
1840-42. Sinclair Kirtley. 1872-74 . Chas. H.Hardin .
1840–42. Hiram Philips. 1874-76 . D. H. McIntyre.
1842-46. Tyrc Harris. 1876–78. John A. Flood .
1846-50. Jas. S. Rollins. 1878–80. J. A. Hockaday.
1880–82 . Jas. L. Stephens.
Representatives in Legislature.
1822–24 . Peter Wright, James M. Moss, David C. Westerfield .
1824–26 . Peter Wright, John Slack , Thomas W. Conyers.
1826–28. Tyre Harris, Thomas W. Conyers.
1828–30. Sinclair Kirtley, Wm. S. Burch.
1830–32 . John B. Gordon, Wm . S. Burch, D. P. Wilcox.
1882–34. John B.Gordon, Tyre Harris, Oliver Parker.
1834-86. John B. Gordon, Thomas C.Maupin , Sinclair Kirtley.
1836–38. John B.Gordon, T. C. Maupin , Michael Woods, A. W. Turner .
1888–40. John B. Gordon, D. M. Hickman, J. S. Rollins, Alex. Persinger.
1840-42. D.M. Hickman, J. S. Rollins, Alex . Persinger, George Knox, Tyre Harris .
1842–44. Wm . Smith, M. R. Arnold, Wm . Rowland .
1844-46. George Knox, Sinclair Kirtley, Wm . Jewell.
1846–50 . Wm . F. Switzler.
1850–52. Absalom Hicks, L. W. Robinson , S. B. Hatton .
1852–54. James M.Gordon, Stephen Wilhite, D. H. Hickman.
1854-56. Jas. S. Rollins, Odon Guitar.
1856-58 . W.F. Switzler, Joseph B. Douglass .
1858–60. Udon Guitar, James Harris.
1860-62. John M. Harris, J. M. Gordon.
1862–64. Wm . Slade, Wm . W. Dodd.
1864-66. John W. Harris, J. M. Gordon.
1866-68. :Jas. S. Rollins, Rollin Lyman .
1868–70. F. T. Russell, Tyre Harris.
1870–72. A. G. Newman, John L. Bass.
1872–74 . Squire Turner.
1874–78 . W. R. Wilhite.
1878–82.' J. W.Kneisley.
JUDICIAL .
County Court Judges.
1821–22. Anderson Woods, Lazarus Wilcox, Peter Wright.
1822–26 . Wm . Lientz , Lawrence Bass.
1826–28. Tyre Harris, Wm . Shields, John Henderson.
1828–29. Priestly H. McBride, Joseph Marshall,Wm . Lientz.
1829-30 . James McClelland, James W.Moss, Wm . Lientz.
1830–32. James McClelland, Tyre Harris, J. W. Hickam .
1832–33. James McClelland, J. W.Hickam , Michael Woods.
1833–34. Joseph W. Hickam , J. W.Moss, Michael Woods.

1834-35. Michael Woods, J. M.Gordon , Jesse Hart.
1835–36 . James M. Gordon , Michael Woods, Hiram Phillips.
1836–38. James M. Gordon , Alex. Persinger, Hiram Phillips.
1838–40. Hiram Phillips, Matthew R. Arnold , Overton Harris
1840–42. M. R. Arnold , J.W.Daly, Overton Harris.
1842–46. Alex. Persinger, J. W. Daly, Gilpin S. Tuttle .
1846–58. Alex Persinger, J. W. Daly, John Vaughan .
1858–60. Alex . Persinger, J. W. Daly, John W. Hall.
1860–62. J. W.Daly , J. W. Hall, James Arnold .
1862–63. J. W. Daly , James Arnold, Hiram Phillips.
1863–65. J. W. Daly , James Arnold , David Gordon.
1865–66. J. W. Daly, David Gordon, John Berkebile.
1866–70 . James Arnold , John W.Hall, James Harris.
1870–72. James Arnold , James Harris, David Gordon.
1872–74 .James Harris, David Gordon, J. Y. Batterton.
1874–76. J. Y. Batterton , Hail T. Wright, Jesse A. Boulton.
1876–78. James Harris, J. Y. Batterton, David Pipes.
1878–80. David Pipes, James Harris, W.F. Roberts.
1880–82. David Pipes, W. F. Roberts, W.P. Tuttle.
County Clerks.
1821-60 . Warren Woodson . 1867-69. Warren Woodson.
1860-67. J. B. Douglass. 1869–74 . Henry N. Cook .
1874 to . W. W.Batterton (present incumbent).
Circuit Judges.
1819-37. David Todd. 1840-47. John D. Leland .
1837-40. Thomas Reynolds. 1847-62. Wm . A. Hall.
1862 to present, George H. Burckhardt.
Circuit Attorneys.
1821-24 . H. R. Gamble . 1852-56 . R. T. Prewitt.
1824-26. Abiel Leonard. 1856-60. John F. Williams.
1826-27 . Charles French . 1860–62. H. M. Porter.
1827-28. John Wilson . 1862–64. A. J. Harbison .
1828–36 . Robert W. Wells . 1864-68. W. C. Barr.
1836–37. W.B. Napton . 1868–72. John H. Overall.
1837–38. Samuel N. Bay. 1872–74 . Wellington Gordon.
1838-48. J. M. Gordon . 1874–80. Shannon C. Douglass.
1848–52. C. H. Hardin . 1880-82. J. DeW . Robinson .
Circuit Clerks.
1821–47. Roger North Todd. 1866–74 . John M. Samuel.
1847–66 . Robert L. Todd. 1874-83. W.W.Garth .
Sheriffs.
1821-22. Overton Harris. 1850-54. J. B. Douglass.
1822-26 . James Barnes. , 1854-58 . Jere Orear.
1826–30. H. Jamison . 1858–62. John M. Samuel.
1830–32. T. C.Maupin . 1862–64. J. H. Waugh.
1832–36 . Wm . S. Burch . 1864–66 . J. F. Baker.
1836-40. John S.Martin . 1866-68. J. C. Orr.
1840_44 . F. A. Hamilton . 1868-70 . F. D , Evans.
1844–48. T. C. Maupin . 1870-72. J. C. Orr .
1848–50 . W. T. Hickman . 1872–76 . J. C. Gillaspy.
1876-82 .. Josiah W. Stone.
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This is a reproduction of a library book that was digitized

by Google as part of an ongoing effort to preserve the

BOONE COUNTY , MISSOURI.

WRITTEN AND COMPILED

FROM THE MOST AUTHENTIC OFFICIAL AND PRIVATE SOURCES ;

INCLUDING A HISTORY OF ITS

TOWNSHIPS, TOWNS AND VILLAGES .

A CONDENSED HISTORY OF MISSOURI ; THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS ; A RELIABLE AND

St. Louis : Press of Nixon - Jones Printing Co.

POSITION AND DESCRIPTION .

Bourbon township is the northwest corner township of Boone

SOME GEOLOGICAL AND ARCHÆOLOGICAL FEATURES.

Red Granite . – Some substantial and valuable deposits of fine red

Remarkable Cave . — In the northwest quarter of section 34 , tp .

HISTORY OF BOONE COUNTY . 541

Robert Schooling came to the southeast quarter of the section where

1 One account says in 1835.

ITEMS OF EARLY HISTORY .

For many years after the organization of the county , Bourbon

“ The town of Bourbonton was also called Buena Vista , and is

INCIDENTS OF THE CIVIL WAR IN BOURBON TOWNSHIP BURNING OF

DESTRUCTION OF THE NORTH MISSOURI RAILROAD AND SKIRMISH IN

On the night of December 20 , 1861, detachments of the companies

1 Sometimes called “ the Riggs's Run Fight.”

HISTORY OF BOONE COUNTY . 545

Their names were Thos . M. Smith , John Patton , Stephen Stott ,

1 Fort Donelson had been recently captured , among other victories.

JIM JACKSON'S FIGHT WITH THE FEDERALS IN 1864 .

In the late fall or early winter of 1864 , “ Captain ” Jim Jackson , a

HISTORY OF BOONE COUNTY . 547

In 1863 Amos Judy, who lived a few miles southeast of Sturgeon ,

In 1863 Joshua (" Jot ” ) Creson and a minister named Butts

HOW JOT ” CRESON SHOT REV . BARNES.

The venerable old pioneer preacher , “ Uncle Jimmy ” Barnes, was

me again , so as to help me along ? ” It is needless to say that “ Uncle

Mrs. Frances Ann Maher , born in South Carolina, December 28 ,

STORIES BY UNCLE DURRETT BRUCE .

Durrett Bruce was born near Lexington , Kentucky, in March ,

Although in his 94th year, “ Uncle ” Durrett is hale, hearty and

many an honest penny by making two wolf scalps out of one, by a

" UNCLE JOHN ALEXANDER ,

One of the pioneers of the county and township , relates another

Uncle John Alexander states that in the fall of 1819, as Joshua

Some years ago, before spark -arresters on locomotives were in

THE SHROYER MURDER CASE .

A most horrible and at the same time a most interesting case of

Mike Shroyer had murdered his wife somewhere in Missouri but he

A difficulty occurred in Bourbon township , at Union church , in

On the east half of the southwest quarter of section 31, town

Old Petersburg , like other frontier towns in an early day , was a

This mill stands on Perche creek , on the northeast quarter of sec

SCHOOL HOUSES IN BOURBON .

Barrett School House . — Stands on the southeast quarter of section

Dinwiddie School House . - Northeast quarter of section 11 , towo

months ; average attendance, twenty ; average wages per month paid

COUNTRY CHURCHES MT. HOREB, BAPTIST (EXTINCT) .

This church was situated on the southwest quarter of section 8,

graduate of Edinburg University . He was a thorough scholar and

This church stands on the northeast corner of section 22 , township

This church is owned and controlled by the Baptists and Christians

This is the only Cumberland Presbyterian Church in the county ,

Palmer Graveyard . – This is probably the oldest burying ground

There are probably twenty graves in the cemetery . Its location is in