Nodaway County, Missouri History of 1882 Biographicals

(transcribed by Pat O'Dell: genpat@netins.net)

[page 606] D.S. House, of the firm of House & Blair, proprietors of livery and feed stables, was born September 2, 1851, in Bourbon County, Kentucky. In 1854 his parents moved to Indiana, and thence in 1855 to Mahaska County, Iowa, and later to Wapello County, same state, in 1861. D.S. spent his boyhood days on a farm, and received a common school education. He gave his attention to agricultural pursuits until the spring of 1875, when he commenced the mercantile business at Braddyville, Page County, Iowa. After pursuing that business for a year and a half, he became engaged in stock dealing, continuing therein until the fall of 1877, when he came to Missouri and settled in Hopkins. On the 16th of October, of the same year, in partnership with J.A. Blair, he purchased the livery stables of Cotton & Mayham, and they have carried on the business successfully since that time. The livery stables are under the charge of Mr House, and are well stocked and kept in good condition. The feed stables are superintended by Mr Blair, and are well arranged for the accommodation of patrons. Mr House was married August 19, 1873, to Miss Lottie Hart, a native of Iowa. They have had two children: Byron and Jessie. Mr House's parents were among the pioneers of Kentucky. His father, who is still living at the advanced age of seventy years, was born in Kentucky.

[page 609] W.W. Kinnison, farmer and stock raiser, section 16, post office Hopkins. Although not among the oldest settlers of the county, he is, nevertheless, one of the representative farmers and stock raisers of the same. He is a native of Virginia, and was born November 5, 1810. At an early day the family emigrated to Ohio, where he was raised and educated. In 1826, he removed to Elkhart County, Indiana, and after a long residence there removed to Illinois, where he remained for some time and then emigrated to Iowa. There he made his home for five years, and then in 1865, moved to Missouri, settling in DeKalb County, where he resided eighteen months. From there he went to Andrew County, and four years later he came to this county, where he has since resided. Previous to moving on his present place, he was engaged in the hotel business in Hopkins, on his present place, he was engaged in the hotel business in Hopkins, and has at different times conducted hotels in Nora, Illinois; Afton, Iowa, and Savannah, Missouri. Mr K. has 157 acres of land, eighty of which are under cultivation. He was married in 1834, to Miss Fannie DeHaven. They have five children: Cyrus J., Mary E., Abram C., Joan J., and Harvey B.

[page 610] Jacob Louden, proprietor of the Star Bakery, Restaurant and Grocery, was born in Perry County, Pennsylvania, June 10, 1841, and was reared in that vicinity until fifteen years of age, spending his boyhood days on a farm receiving the benefits of a common school education. In 1857 he removed with his uncle to Ogle County, Illinois, where he remained for five years, when he enlisted in Company I, Fifteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, on the 24th of March, 1862, at Rockford, Illinois, and served something over three years, taking part in the siege of Corinth and Vicksburg, where they were engaged fifty-two days, siege of Jackson, Mississippi, battle of Kenesaw Mountain and siege of Atlanta. His regiment was then sent back to guard a railroad, and were all taken prisoners at Aqueth, Georgia, in September, 1864, by General Hood, and sent to Andersonville prison. They were held prisoners until March, 1865, when they reached the Union lines at Jacksonville, Florida, and were taken aboard a vessel and sent around by water to Annapolis, Maryland, thence to St Louis, and from there to Springfield, Illinois, when they were mustered out, July 4, 1865. Mr L. returned to his old home in Ogle County, and in the fall of 1867 immigrated to Butler County, Iowa, where he improved an eighty acre farm. In 1872 he came to Hopkins and engaged in teaming for two years and a-half, when he erected a building and started a restaurant [page 611] and grocery, his cash capital being $70. In September, 1881, he sold out, and after taking a trip through Iowa, here turned to Hopkins and fitted up his present place of business. His rooms are neat and tastefully arranged, his bakery is first-class in every particular, and his stock of fancy groceries is complete. He is a member of Lodge No. 333 of the I.O.O.F. of Hopkins, and of the A.O.U.W. He also belongs to the Hopkins cornet band, of which he was one of the organizers. He is said to be one of the best tuba players in the west. Mr L. was married July 4, 1870, to Miss Amanda C. Renn. She was born in Lycoming County, Pennsylvania, September 5, 1851. They have one children: William M.

[page 611] Henry J. Low, farmer and carpenter, section 1, post office Hopkins, occupies a front rank among old settlers and progressive and enterprising men of this county. He is a native of Pennsylvania, and was born in 1828. He was there raised to manhood, following the occupation of contracting and building, having learned that trade some time previous. At the age of twenty-two years he emigrated to Lee County, Illinois, where he resided till 1868, when he removed to Missouri and located in this county. Here he now owns eighty acres of good average land, most of which is under cultivation. Since his residence here he has, besides following farming, worked at his trade in and about Hopkins, and has built some of the most substantial buildings in that place. In 1848 Mr Low was united in marriage to Miss Abigail Holdren. They have from this union five children living: Mary E., Philip M., Sarah J., Charles M. and Theodosia. They are members of the M.E. Church, to which they are liberal contributors.

[page 611] H. Lowrey, druggist and stationer, was born August 13, 1841, in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, and was taken to Wayne County, Ohio, by his parents when about three years of age. There he passed his youth on the home farm, and received an education in the schools of that vicinity. During the late war he enlisted in Company I, Sixteenth Ohio Infantry, and served until April, 1863, when he was discharged on the surgeon's certificate of disability and returned home. In the fall of the same year he enlisted in the Ninth Ohio Cavalry, Company D, serving until the close of the war. He held the position of sergeant in the last named company, and took part in the battles of Chickasaw Bluffs and Tazewell, Tennessee, and was on Sherman's retreat from the rear of Vicksburg in August, 1862, and also took part in many skirmishes. During the Atlanta campaign his regiment made a raid and cut the communication on the West Point and Montgomery Railroad, and joined Sherman in [page 612] the rear of Atlanta, then going through to the sea. Mr L. was mustered out of service in May, 1865, when he returned to his old home in Ohio. In 1866, he came west and settled at Fort Madison, Lee County, Iowa, and in 1869, he took a trip west to Atchison, Kansas, remaining there four months, when he returned to Fort Madison. In the fall of 1870, he moved to Franklin County, Kansas, made that vicinity his home for one year, and then went again to Fort Madison. In the spring of 1873, he moved to Harvey County, Kansas, and remained there until the fall of 1874, when he came to Hopkins, first entering a general merchandise store. He afterwards became connected with a drug store, and in the spring of 1877, commenced the business on his own account, now carrying a large and complete stock, which he has built up by adhering to sterling principles of honesty and fair dealing, thereby winning the patronage of a large circle of friends. He is a member of Lodge No. 333, of the I.O.O.F. of Hopkins, of which he is one of the charter members, and in which he has filled all the offices. Mr Lowrey was married in December, 1869, to Miss Mary E. Redman, a native of Jeffersonville, Indiana. She died August 11, 1872. They had two children, both of whom are deceased.

[page 613] George H. Lytle, farmer and stock dealer, was born in Washington County, Pennsylvania, November 5, 1842. In 1844 his parents moved to Delaware County, Ohio, but returned to Washington County, Pennsylvania, in 1848, where they resided until 1854. They again moved to Delaware County, Ohio, and there George received a common school education. He remained on the home farm until 1862, when he married and commenced farming on his own account. Removing west in the fall of 1864, he settled in Nodaway County, Missouri, some five miles west of Hopkins. The country was sparsely settled, and to attempt to clear a farm was enough to discourage the heart of the most courageous, but by hard work and close attention to business he has been able to accumulate 446 acres of fine land, divided into two farms, both of which are improved and well watered. His home farm has an excellent bank barn, a wind-pump, a good orchard, etc., and is one of the best adapted for stock purposes in this locality. He is largely interested in stock raising, most of his stock being high grade. His capital stock, when he commenced in life, consisted of two horses and a set of harness. Mr Lytle takes a deep interest in educational matters, and has filled the position of school director [page 614] several terms. In October, 1881, he purchased an acre lot and a neat residence in Hopkins, and moved his family to town for the purpose of educating his children. He was married October 22, 1865, to Miss Annetta Thurston, who was born in Delaware County, Ohio, May 22, 1844. They have an interesting family of three children: Charlie, Lena and Della.

[page 614] Eli McAtee, farmer and stock raiser, section 16, post office Hopkins, was born in Union County, Indiana, December 1, 1827. He was reared on a farm, at his birthplace, receiving an education in the schools of the neighborhood, and, in 1844, accompanied his parents to Van Buren County, Iowa, where he remained some thirteen years. Upon arriving at maturity he commenced farming on his own account, and has made that his occupation through life. In the fall of 1856, he moved to Mercer County, Missouri, and resided there for sixteen years. During the war, he volunteered to serve several times, but was rejected on account of ill health; nevertheless, he was a member of the Enrolled Missouri Militia. In the spring of 1873, he moved to Jefferson County, Kansas, remaining there one year, when he moved to Jackson County, same state, afterwards coming to Nodaway County, Missouri, in the fall of 1874. He first settled near Pickering, but, six months later, moved to his present place [Hopkins Township], which consists of 100 acres of rich land, well adapted to stock raising, in which industry he is largely interested. He has a good orchard of apple and peach trees, and a large assortment of small fruit. Mr McA. has filled the office of justice of the peace for about five and a half years. While in Mercer County, he helped to organize a township, and held the office of township clerk. He is a member of Xenia Lodge, No 50, A.F. and A.M., of Hopkins. Mr McA. has been twice married. First, in 1849, to Miss Catherine Williamson. She died in August, 1854, leaving one child, Alice (now Mrs J.C. Brown). He was married again in September, 1858, to Miss Sarah E. Puett, a native of Wayne County, Indiana. By this union they have four children: Eva E. (now Mrs George W. Sturgeon), Isadore, Ann L. and Sarah W.; lost, three. Himself and wife are active member of the M.E. Church of Hopkins.

[page 614] Samuel McAtee, farmer and stock raiser, section 20, post office Hopkins, was born in Union County, Indiana, April 14, 1840. In 1844 his parents moved to Van Buren County, Iowa, and there Samuel was principally raised, spending his boyhood days on a farm and receiving a common school education. He accompanied his parents to Mercer County, Missouri, in the fall of 1856, and resided there some seventeen years, engaged in [page 615] agricultural pursuits. During the war he served in the Enrolled Missouri Militia. Immigrating to Jackson County, Kansas, in 1873, he resided there five months, and then came to Nodaway County, Missouri, in the fall of 1874, locating where he now resides. He owns a fine farm of 130 acres, seventy of which are under cultivation and well adapted to stock raising. He has a young orchard and other improvements upon his place. Mr McA. has filled the position of school director several years, and now holds the office of road overseer. He was married August 24, 1862, to Miss Mary A. Puett, a native of Indiana. She was born April 3, 1836. They have three children living: Sarah A., (now Mrs William Watters), Theora J. and Eli A. Himself and wife are active members of the M.E. Church, and hold their membership at Happy Hollow. Mr McAtee's parents reside with him. His father, John McAtee, was born July 3, 1803, in Rowan County, North Carolina, and moved to Union County, Indiana, when twenty-one years of age. He was married September 28, 1825, to Miss Sarah Star, a native of the same place as her husband. They have seven children living: William, Eli, Nancy, Oliver, Almira, (now Mrs Thomas Keywood), Samuel, Diana, (now Mrs Joseph E. Puett.)

[page 617] Hopkins Township - D. Malott & Son, blacksmiths and repairers, are among the old settlers of this place. D. Malott was born in Grant County, Indiana, February 10, 1820. He spent his boyhood days on a farm at his birthplace, and received an education in the schools of the vicinity. When sixteen years old he commenced to learn the blacksmith trade at Marion, Grant County, Indiana and has made that his occupation through life, moving to Miami County, Ohio, in 1841. He remained there four years, and then returned to his native county, going from there to Livingston County, Illinois, in 1863. Six years later he came to Missouri, and settled in Nodaway County in the fall of 1869. Here he purchased a farm near Hopkins, settling his family thereon, while he came to Hopkins and started the first blacksmith shop in the place in 1871. This business he carried on until 1877, when he sold out and turned his attention to farming. His farm is located on section 8, of this township, and comprises nineteen acres of well improved land. In the fall of 1880, he moved to town and in partnership with his son, James A., erected a new shop, the neatest of the kind in the place, and being excellent workmen are receiving a very liberal patronage. Mr M was married in May, 1841, to Miss Rachel Patti, a [page 617] native of Ohio. They have had eleven children, six of whom are living: A.F., D.P., N.W., James A., Olive E. (now Mrs Scott McFarland), and Ettie. Himself and wife are members of the United Brethren Church. James A. Malott was born July 5, 1854, in Marion, Grant County, Indiana, and has remained with his parents in their various moves through life, coming to Missouri with them in the fall of 1869. He received a good business education, and when twenty years of age he commenced to learn the blacksmith trade with his father. In 1878, he moved to Atchison County, Missouri, and opened a shop, which he conducted for one years. He was married May 21, 1876, to Miss Mary E. Byerly, a native of Iowa. She died in the fall of 1878. They had two children, only one of whom is now living: Edna A. Mr Malott is a member of Lodge No 333, I.O.O.F., of Hopkins, in which he holds the office of secretary. He is greatly interested in machinery, and is of quite an inventive turn of mind, possessing the necessary amount of energy to succeed in whatever he untertakes.

[page 630] Benjamin Slaughter, farmer and stock raiser, section 24, post office Hopkins, was born in Parke County, Indiana, November 15, 1834, and was taken to Peoria County, Illinois by his parents in 1836. There he was principally raised, spending his boyhood days on a farm and receiving the benefits of a common school education. In the spring of 1856 he accompanied the family to Nodaway County, Missouri, and settled where he now resides. The country abounded in game, and Ben being a good shot and fond of hunting, had his full share of that sport. Maryville was his nearest post office, and Russell's Mills, on the Nodaway River (now Quitman], was his milling point. Mr S. made a trip to Pike's Peak in 1859, and spent eighteen months in the mountains prospecting, etc., and then returned to this county. During the war he served in the Enrolled Missouri Militia. In 1876 he went to Deadwood, Montana Territory, and remained there some four months; he also took a trip to Denver City in the fall of 1880. He has filled the position of school director several terms, and constable of Union Township (before Hopkins Township was cut off) for two years. Mr S. owns a fine farm of 240 acres, which is one of the finest for stock purposes in the county, being well watered and sheltered by timber.

[page 634] George W. Sturgeon, Sr., farmer and stock raiser, section 18, post office Hopkins, was born in Barren County, Kentucky, within fourteen miles of the famous Monmoth Cave, on the 30th of June, 1818. He was taken to Owen County, Indiana, by his parents when five years of age, and was reared in that and Morgan County, spending his boyhood days on a farm and receiving an education in the subscription schools. In September, 1834, when fifteen years of age, he commenced to learn the blacksmith trade at Gosport, Owen County, Indiana, and followed it for twenty-one years, working one year in Indianapolis, during 1835. In 1841, he moved to Hendricks County, Indiana, and remained there one year. Mr S. emigrated west in September, 1855, and spent that winter in Iowa, coming to Nodaway County in the spring of 1856. He settled where he now resides, the country then being sparsely settled, and endured many privations. He built a cabin and broke a piece of land, which he commenced to improve. Savannah, Andrew County, was their nearest supply point for some three years. There were no roads, and the settlers drove over the country where they pleased, always carrying an ax along to make a pathway if necessary. Mr S. entered 640 acres of fine land, which he has since divided with his children, now owning 220 acres. This is well improved, with an excellent orchard and a young vineyard. It is an excellent stock farm. He cast his first vote in the county at Xenia. He has filled the office of justice of the peace some twelve years. During the war he received the first appointment as registering officer for Union Township, and filled the position two years. He also served in the Enrolled Missouri Militia during the war although he was over age; his eldest son also served three years. Being an old settler, Mr S. is widely and favorably known. He was married May 17, 1838, to Miss Margaret Evans. She was born in Lawrence County, Indiana, April 26, 1817. They have had eight children, six of whom are living: Mary J. (widow of J.N. Balsby; she is living with her father); Lucina (now Mrs John Bates, of Harrison County, Missouri); Martha E. (now Mrs Richard Christal, at Excelsior Springs, Clay County, Missouri); Marion, John M. and George W. Mr Sturgeon and wife have been active members of the regular Baptist Church for about forty years. He hold the position of deacon of the Hopkins Church.

[page 635] Jeptha Sturgeon, farmer and stock raiser, section 14, post office Hopkins, was born in Morgan County, Indiana, July 28, 1835. He spent his boyhood days on a farm, and received the benefits of a common school education. Upon arriving at maturity he commenced farming, and has followed that occupation through life. During the late war, he enlisted in Company A, Thirty-third Indiana Infantry, August 10, 1861, and was mustered out of service July 21, 1865. He took part in the battle of Chickamauga, and participated in the Atlanta campaign; also accompanied General Sherman on his famous march to the sea, and around to Washington, where he took part in the grand review. At the close of the war he returned to his old home, in Indiana, and, in the fall of 1865, took a trip west, and purchased the land on which he now resides. In March, 1869, he settled permanently thereon. He owns 160 acres of land, most of which is under cultivation. Mr S. is largely interested in stock raising, although his capital, when commencing in life, were his willing hands and brave heart, and, by being honest and industrious, he has succeeded far beyond his most sanguine expectations. He was married in August, 1858, to Miss Jane Summit, a native of Monroe County, Indiana. She was born April 10th, 1838, and died on the 2d of January, 1875, leaving five children: Jeremiah D., Jeptha D., Mary F., James O. and Lucy J. Mr S. is an active member of the Missionary Baptist Church, of Hopkins.

[page 635] John Sturgeon, farmer and stock raiser, section 13, post office Hopkins, was born in Morgan County, Indiana, August 17, 1851, and in the spring of 1856 accompanied his parents to Nodaway County, Missouri. Here John was raised to the scenes and incidents of pioneer life, assisting his father in the cultivation of the farm. He received his education partly in the neighborhood schools, to which he had to walk four miles and a-half, but mostly by self-application. He has given his attention to agricultural pursuits through life, and now owns 120 acres of fine land, eighty of which are under cultivation, the remainer being timber and pasture lands. His farm is well stocked. Mr S. is the fortunate possessor of numerous acquaintances and is favorably known by all. He takes a deep interest in educational matters, and at present fills the office of school director. He was married August 26, 1873, to Miss Susan Pool, who was born in Jennings County, Indiana, in 1853. They have had three children: Ervin, born November 7, 1874; Minnie, born July 29, 1877; and Eddie, born February 27, 1881. Mr S. and his wife are among the original members of the First Baptist Church of Hopkins, in which Mr S. holds the position of church clerk. He has been a member of this denomination [page 636] since he was thirteen years of age. He is also an active temperance worker, and is not addicted to the use of profane language. Every good cause receives his hearty support.

[page 637] Richard Terrell, farmer and stock raiser, section 23, post office Hopkins, was born in Orange County, Virginia, April 15, 1831. When he was two years of age his parents moved to Marshall County, Alabama, where he passed his boyhood days on a farm, receiving the benefits of a common school education. He accompanied his parents to Peoria County, Illinois, in the spring of 1848, arriving there on his birthday, April 15. In the spring of 1852 he emigrated to California and spent some two years on the coast, engaged in mining. He then returned home by way of the Isthmus and New York City, and soon went to Marshall County, Illinois, where he occupied his time in farming. In 1856 he took a trip through Southern Iowa and Northern Missouri, and entered a piece of land in Taylor County, Iowa. Then returned again to Illinois. He purchased his present farm in 1878, and in December, 1880, he moved west and settled in Hopkins. In the fall of 1881 he moved to his farm, which contains 240 acres of well improved land, and well watered by never-failing springs. He has one of the best orchards in the state, containing large varieties of all kinds of fruit. Mr T. is a member of Xenia Lodge, No 50, A.F. and A.M., and also of Lodge No 333, of the I.O.O.F., of Hopkins. He was married June 7, 1855, to Miss Phoebe A. Hatfield, a native of Parke County, Indiana. She was born February 20, 1839. They have had eight children six of whom are living: Charles, Melissa (now Mrs William Grady), Leona (noe Mrs Edward Tory), Nettie, Nora M., and Francis M.

[page 644] O.E. Bugbee, farmer and stock raiser, section 15, post office Hopkins, was born in New York, on February 11, 1825, and when at the age of seven years, he, with his father's family, emigrated to Ohio, residing there till 1860. He [page 645] then removed to Warren County, Illinois, remaining for about fifteen years, after which time he immigrated to Missouri, and settled where he now resides. He has eighty acres of land that will average with any in the county, most of which is under cultivation. Mr B is one of our most successful farmers, and a man whose judgment is sought for and adhered to on all subjects, especially pertaining to agriculture. Mr Bugbee was married February 4, 1847, to Miss Sabra Brooks, a lady of genial habits and in every way worthy to be his helpmate. They have eight children: Angeline P., Estella P., Evander O., Caroline, Nellie E., Fred. L., Carl F. and Earl. They are members of the United Brethren Church.

[page 646] H. Caudle, farmer and stock raiser, section 3, post office Hopkins, is among the prominent and successful farmers and stock raisers of this county, who deserve more than a passing notice. He is a native of Jones County, Iowa, and was born April 23, 1846. When at the age of eleven years, he, with his father's family, immigrated to this state, settling in this county, where he has since resided. He moved on the place which he now occupies in 1876, and has 240 acres of choice land, all of it being under cultivation. Mr Caudle was married December 20, 1866, to Miss Albinia Keplinger. They have five children: Franklin, Jessie F., Estella, Edward H. and Harry J. At the breaking out of the war Mr. C. enlisted in the Union cause in the Fourth Missouri Cavalry, under Colonel Hull, and served three years. He was but sixteen years of age when he enlisted. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and belongs to the M.E. Church. He has held the office of school director of his district.

[page 647] E.D. Clark, farmer and stock raiser, section 18, post office Hopkins. Among the old settlers of this district, the subject of this sketch will bear more than a passing notice. He is a native of Sangamon County, Illinois, and was born February 9, 1828. He was there raised to manhood, and at the age of twenty-six years he emigrated to Iowa, settling in Marion County, where he resided about two years. From there he moved to Daviess County, Missouri, and after remaining there five years, located in Harrison County. Three years later he came to this county and settled where he now resides. He has 112 acres of good average land, eighty acres of which are under cultivation. Mr Clark was married in 1826 [sic, 1846] to Miss Abbie J. Austin. They have from this union seven children: William T., Mary E., Alexander, Sarah B., John P., James E., and Alice J.

[page 648] William Cowen, farmer and stock raiser, section 35, post office Bedford, Iowa, a prominent agriculturist of this district, is a native of Pennsylvania, where he was born October 27, 1836. He was there raised to manhood and educated, and when at the age of twenty years he emigrated to Cedar County, Iowa, where he remained two years. After this time he returned to his native state, where he followed the occupation of farming. In 1873, he removed to Missouri, and settled in this county, where he owns 160 acres of land above the average, most of which is under cultivation. Mr Cowen was married June 6, 1861, to Miss Sarah A. Smith. They have from this marriage nine children: Manford, Laura J., Sherman, Flora B., Melville, Newton, Charlie, Frank and Elsie M.

[page 649] W.P. Deets, (deceased). The subject of this sketch was a native of New York, and was born in 1818. He was there reared and educated, and when at the age of thirty-seven years, he emigrated to Ogle County, Illinois. After a long residence there of twenty-five years, in 1879, he removed to this state, and settled on section 34, where his sons now reside. Mr Deets was married in 1839, to Miss Hannah Wood. They had from this union three children: Lorenzo, S.D., and Louis P. Mr Deets' death occurred November 29, 1880. Since that time the children have managed the home place, and have proven themselves progressive and successful farmers. They are men who are highly appreciated in the community in which they reside. They have 310 acres of land, all of which is improved. During the war of the rebellion the two oldest brothers enlisted in the Union army, Lorenzo serving in Company F, Thirty-fourth Illinois Regiment. While with that company he was wounded at Liberty Gap, Tennessee, and was in Hospital No 1, at Murfreesboro, Tennessee. He was with the company for three years, and also for one year with Hancock's Veteran Corps. S.W. was a volunteer in Company M, Seventeenth Illinois Cavalry, and served for two years. He was married in 1867, to Miss Catharine Wilson. They have four children: Minnie, Maude, Samuel M., and William P.

[page 651] Edward T. Gaynor, section 30, post office Gaynor City, is one of the old settlers and well known men of Nodaway County. He is a native of Ireland, and was born in 1838. When, at the age of eleven years, he emigrated, with his father's family, to America, and settled in Virginia, where he was raised to manhood, there learning the trade of blacksmith. In 1865, he removed to Ohio, where he resided till 1874, when he came to Missouri, removed to Ohio, where he resided till 1874, when he came to Missouri, and engaged in blacksmithing, where Gaynor City now stands. That village was named in his honor. He continued his chosen occupation till 1881, when he sold his shop to Mr McLain, and removed to where [page 652] he now resides. He has 120 acres of land, sixty acres of which are under cultivation. Mr G. is a member of the A.O.U.W.; also of the Grange. He was married, in 1868, to Miss Margaret Scowden, an estimable lady.

[page 653] C.C. Horn, section 24, probably the oldest settler in this portion of the county now living where he settled, is the subject of this sketch. He was born July 29, 1819, in Kentucky, and was there raised and educated. October 4, 1849, he emigrated to Randolph County, Missouri, where he remained three years, and from there removed to Davis County, Iowa, where he lived till 1853. At that time he went to Taylor County, and after a space of one year came to this state and settled where he now resides. He has 100 acres of as good land as there is in the county, sixty acres of which are under cultivation. Mr Horn has been twice married. First, July 17, 1844, to Miss Eliza A. Jones. They had one child: William F. Mrs Horn's death occurred in 1846. Mr H was married the second time to Miss Matilda Lockker. They have from this union nine children: George W., Mary E., Martha M., Louisa, Cornelius, Lafayette, Dilly, Lucy and Florence. During the war Mr Horn was a member of the Union League. He was constable of his township for one term, and also school director for a term of six years.

[page 655] McLain, W.H., dealer in general merchandise, Gaynor City. The subject of this sketch is the principal merchant of this town, and is also its founder. He is a native of Pennsylania, in which state he was born June 26, 1853. While yet an infant, with the family he emigrated to Decatur County, Iowa, where they resided twelve years, after which time Mr McLain removed to Illinois, settling in Brown County. After a residence there of twelve years, during which time he was engaged in farming, in 1879, he again returned to Iowa, where he lived six months. After that he went again to Illinois, and from there came to Missouri in 1879 [sic], and started the business that now occupies his attention. He has a large trade, and thoroughly merits his success. He is honest in his dealings, and is possessed of sterling principles of right, and carries a full and complete stock of goods, in his line. Mr McLain was married April 28, 1876, to [page 656] Miss Rebecca J. DeWitt.They have by this union two children: Hattie J., and Lenvil D. Mr McL. is the postmaster of Gaynor City. This town was established by W.H. McLain, and took its name from Edward Gaynor, who at that time had a blacksmith shop where the town now stands. This shop is now operated by Mr McLain. The town is situated on the corners of sections 26, 25, 35, 36, although the stores are on section 26. The business portion is composed of a store and a blacksmith shop and a drug store, the latter operated by Dr Cadwallader; also a few residences.

[page 658] George R. Shrock, section 4, post office Defiance, Worth County, is a prominent and representative farmer and stock raiser of this district, and was born in Pennsylvania, on February 2, 1835. He was there raised to manhood, being brought up in the occupation which he now follows. At the age of twenty years, he emigrated to Colorado, and engaged in the occupation of mining, remaining in the west eight years, a part of which time he spent in Montana and California. From there he removed to this state, and settled in Harrison County, and, after a residence of one year, he went to Worth County, remaining six years. He then came to this county, and settled where he now resides, being the owner of 246 acres of land, 175 acres of which are under cultivation. Mr Shrock was married in January, 1869, to Miss Mary Coy, an estimable lady. They have, to bless this union, five children: Irene, Hubert, Earl, Marinda and Essie. Mr Shrock is school director of this district.

[page 659] Paris H. Spaulding, farmer and stock raiser, section 16, post office Defiance. Among the old settlers and prominent and successful farmers of this district the subject of this sketch is worthy of more than a passing notice. He is a native of New York, and was born October 9, 1842. He was there raised to manhood and educated, and is by trade a stonemason. In 1865 he emigrated to Missouri and settled in this county, and in 1873 moved on his present place. He has forty acres of his own, and besides this works eighty acres of the family's land. All of it is land that will average with any in the county, the larger portion of which is under cultivation. Mr Spaulding was married October 9, 1860, to Miss Lydia R. Pangurn. They have two children: Hattie L. and Paris L. Mr S. was road commissioner one term. they are members of the Baptist church.

[page 667] George A. Downing, farmer and stock raiser, section 36, was born near Yan Yan, Yates County, New York, December 29, 1818, and was the son of William R. and Mary (Miller) Downing. The former, a native of New York State, was a farmer and also a boot and shoe maker. His wife was also born in New York. George received a common school education, being brought up on a farm in Clarke and Washington Counties, Indiana. When twelve years of age he commenced business for himself by working by the month. At the age of seventeen years he moved to Fulton County, Illinois. In October, 1840, he came to Missouri, locating in what was then Buchanan (now Andrew) County. The Platte Purchase was then sparsely settled. Mr D. often traveled through Nodaway and adjoining counties on hunting expeditions. In 1857, he went to Texas, where he continued to remain until the spring of 1861, when the war broke out. At that time he exchanged his land for some in Nodaway County, and to avoid serving in the Confederate army, and fighting against his country, decided to move north. In company with Samuel McFarland and others, he traversed a country which was in a state of warfare, and had many narrow escapes with his life, his knowledge of the people and their habits, etc., often preventing trouble. During the [page 668] war he served in the Enrolled Missouri Militia, and held the position of captain of a company of militia. Mr Downing is the owner of 580 acres of land. He has some fine horses, and is quite largely interested in stock raising. He owns most of the property where the old town of Xenia formerly stood. This was laid off in 1856, and grew to be quite a village, having some business houses and thirty or forty families. The war had its bad effects on the prosperity of the town, and in 1870, the railroad completed the work of destroying it. Some of the buildings were moved to Hopkins and others to Pickering, so that all that remains to tell the tale of a once thriving village is a neat country school house, and part of the town site has been converted into a farm. Mr D. held the position of postmaster of Xenia, and has filled most of the township offices. He was married March 22, 1843, to Miss Elizabeth Pierson, daughter of James Pierson, of Culpepper County, Virginia. their family consists of Samuel H. born August 17, 1848; Mary A. (now Mrs L.H. Wray), born October 9, 1850; Amanda E. (now Mrs John F. Gray), born May 7, 1852; M. Eva (now Mrs S.C. Morrison), born August 20, 1857; George G., born May 5, 1868, and Della F., born February 24, 1870. Mr Downing belongs to the Masonic fraternity, holding his membership in Texas. He is Republican in politics, and in every respect a moral man, and one who enjoys the respect of many acquaintances.

[page 676] George W. Nash, farmer and stock raiser, section 13, was born on the 11th of December, 1823, in Wayne County, Indiana. His father, Samuel C. Nash, a native of North Carolina, was a farmer and sailor. His mother, whose maiden name was Nancy Gray, was also born in North Carolina. George spent his youth upon a farm in Madison County, Indiana, attending the schools of those early times. In 1843, he came to Missouri, and on the 8th of July, 1843, located in Nodaway County, near the town of Xenia. In the fall of that year he cast his first ballot, voting the straight Whig ticket. At the age of twenty-one years he began life for himself, his capital consisting only of his willing hands and brave heart. That he made good use of this capital is shown by the position he occupies to-day. The early struggles of these pioneers can never be imagined by those who have never passed such an ordeal. The nearest trading point of Mr Nash was at Savannah, Andrew County. He remembers an instance of himself and brother going to Andrew County to split rails in order to obtain corn to eat. A friend, William Ingalls, took the corn to mill, and from there home to the boy's parents. When they returned they found the corn had been eaten or loaned to the neighbors, and they were obliged to earn more. In 1846 a report came to the settlers that the Mormons and Indians were contemplating an attack upon them. The citizens hurried to the towns for protection, among these being Mrs Nash--George's mother--who shouldered her musket and marched to the front, determined to die game. The enemies, however, failed to put in an appearance. In the spring of 1862 Mr N. moved to Taylor County, Iowa, where he remained thirteen years. In the fall of 1864 he enlisted in Company C, Fourth Iowa Infantry, and marched through with Sherman to the sea, taking part in the grand review at Washington. He now owns 235 acres of land, with an orchard of 300 trees and fine residence. He is engaged in stock raising, having one thoroughbred and some graded cattle, but gives his attention principally to sheep interests. He has held the offices of road overseer and school director. Mr Nash was married on March 26, 1846, to Miss P. Pistole, daughter of Thomas J. Pistole, Esq. They have seven children: Elvina [page 677] (now Mrs D. Boyer), born April 2, 1849; William T., born December 28, 1851; John H., born February 7, 1854; Austin L., born November 5, 1858; Timothy G., born February 23, 1863; Nora B., born August 18, 1866, and Alta, born August 6, 1871. Mr N. belongs to Pickering Lodge, No 472, A.F. and A.M. He is Democratic in politics, and belongs to the Christian Church.

[page 678] Peter A. Sare, dealer in agricultural implements, furniture, etc., was born in Monroe County, Indiana, on the 11th day of September, 1837, and is the son of L.B. and Jennie (Carmichael) Sare. The former was born in Kentucky, and was engaged in farming. The latter was a native of North Carolina. Peter was educated in the common schools, spending his younger days on a farm in Monroe County, Indiana. In 1856 he came to Missouri, settling some distance south of Maryville, where he remained five years, then returning to Indiana. In 1867 he again came to this county, and located about four miles west of Pickering. Mr Sare may almost be called a pioneer, coming here, as he did and becoming so familiar with the early settlement of the county--his return after his long absence only tended to strengthen his interest for his old acquaintances. He is doing a good business in this town, and besides those above mentioned, is conducting a butcher shop. He owns the most of one block, three residences and a store building in Pickering, besides seven acres adjoining the corporation. He is most decidedly an enterprising citizen, and contributes his full share towards building up and improving the place. He has held the position of treasure of the town. In politics he is a Democrat, and is a member of the Christian Church. Mr Sare was married March 22, 1855, to Miss Mary A. Storm, a daughter of Peter Storm, of Greene County, Indiana. They have nine children: James F., born December 14, 1856; John I., born February 6, 1859; L.J. (Now Mrs James Knowles), born May 20, 1861; Margaret A., born August 1, 1863; Mary E., born September 26, 1865; Bonaparte S., born May 15, 1868; Martha A., born July 26, 1870; Cora E., born June 30, 1874; and Ira E., born November 8, 1878. Mr Sare is a member of Nodaway Lodge, Mo 347, I.O.O.F., of Pickering.

[page 688] Abraham Booher, farmer and stock raiser, section 35, is a native of Switzerland, and was born November 12, 1834. He was reared in the town of Burney, where he received a fair education, and in 1852 he came to America, landing in New Orleans on the 1st of January, 1853. He soon located in Greene County, Indiana, where he was engaged in working by the month on a farm till 1857. In April of the same year he was married to Miss Lydia Overman. They then located on a farm where Mr B was engaged in tilling the soil till 1861, when he moved to Macon County, Illinois, and in 1865 he came to Nodaway County, Missouri. He resided in or near Maryville till 1872, when he located on the farm which he now occupies. His farm now contains 250 acres, all of which is the saving of his own labor and judicious management. Mrs Booher was born in August, 1835, in Greene County, Indiana. The family of Mr and Mrs B. consists of five children living: Isaac, Benjamin, Abraham, Maggie and Ellen, all at home. Two are deceased.

[page 689] Joel D. Brogan, farmer, section 20, post office Wilcox, was born in Claiborne County, Tenn., March 20, 1828, and was reared in his native state, and has followed farming from boyhood. In 1854, he came to Nodaway County, Mo., where he has since resided, and has improved his present farm which contains 180 acres. He was married April 12, 1855, to Miss Docia Whitton, who was born in Anderson County, Tennessee, November 13, 1829. They have seven children: Sarah Margaret, born June 6, 1856; Malinda Clementine, born April 20, 1858; Mary Elizabeth, born March 5, 1860; John Wesley, born June 9, 1862; Redman Birdwell, born June 12, 1866; Ada May, born May 30, 1869, and Jennie, born April 21, 1877. In 1862, Mr Brogan enlisted in Company C, of the Fourth Missouri State Militia Cavalry and remained in service till the spring of 1865, doing efficient duty as a soldier.

[page 689] James Bryant is a native of the State of Indiana, and was born at the Narrows of Sugar Creek, in Parke County, January 25, 1827. He is a son of Gabriel and Phoebe (Marsh) Bryant, the former a native of Bryant's Station, Kentucky, and the latter of New Jersey. James was reared in his native county till fourteen years of age, when he went to Montgomery County, of the same state, where he served an apprenticeship at the tanner's trade, which he followed in Pleasant Hill a short time. He was there married by Rev William Campbell to Miss Sarah McJimsey, on the 31st day of December, 1848. In 1849 Mr B. moved to Colfax, Indiana, the town at that time being name Midway. He was one of its pioneers, and re-named the town in the honor of ex-Vice President Colfax. Mr B. carried on the tannery business in that locality until 1854, when, on account of his failing health, he was compelled to seek another employment and location; consequently he moved to Fountain County, Indi[page 690]ana, and settled on a farm, where he was engaged in tilling the soil till 1868, at which time he returned to Montgomery County. There he resumed the same calling till 1880, and from that time to the present he has been a citizen of Burlington Junction, Missouri, and has been engaged in improving property, building houses, etc. All have become a credit to the city of Burlington Junction. Mrs Bryant is a native of Ohio, and was born April 19, 1831. She resided in her native state till nine years of age, when, with her parents, she moved to Indiana. She is a daughter of John and Mary A. Heizer. The former of Virginia, and the latter of Pennsylvania. The family of Mr and Mrs Bryant consisted of eleven children, five of whom are living: John H., Alice B. (now Mrs J.G. Kerr, who resides in Pleasant Hill, Indiana), James H., Josiah J., and Willie M. Mr and Mrs B. are member of the M.E. Church.

[page 690] Bryant & Charles, printers, and editors of the Burlington Junction Post. This firm is composed of J.H. Bryant and Will C. Charles. The senior member of the firm, Mr Bryant, is a son of James Bryant (mention of whom is made elsewhere). He was born in Pleasant Hill, Montgomery County, Indiana, September 31, 1849, and was educated in the county schools. He improved his youthful days on a farm, after which he was engaged for three years in teaching school. In 1878 he moved to Maryville, where he began work in the interest of the Maryville Republican, his assistance adding much in the building up of that paper's circulation, he having canvassed the entire county of Nodaway. Mr Bryant continued as an employee of the office of the Republican for over one year, when he purchased an interest in his present office and became a partner of Prof. B.A. Dunn, the firm name being J.H. Bryant & Co. Prof Dunn was succeeded by Will C. Charles in December, 1880, and since then it has gone under the present firm name. Mr Bryant is a member of the following societies: Burlington Lodge No 442, A.F. and A.M., Burlington Lodge No 404, I.O.O.F., Burlington Lodge No 215, A.O.U.W., and Nodaway Valley Lodge No 478, I.O.G.T. He was married January 1, 1874, to Miss Mary A. Bever, a daughter of Mathias C. and Mary A. (Elmore) Bever. The former was a native of Ohio, and was born February 14, 1826. Mrs Mary Bever was a native of Indiana, born March 15, 1829. Mrs Bryant was born in the same vicinity as her husband, February 4, 1855. She was reared, educated and married in her native county. They have three children: Fred. E., James H. and Mark C. Mr and Mrs B. are members of the M.E. Church.

Will C. Charles, of the above firm, was born in San Francisco, California, February 15, 1856. His father, Capt Thomas C. Charles, was a native of Kentucky, and was for a number of years a captain on the Mississippi Packet [page 691] Line. Will's mother, (whose maiden name was Margaret E. McPaven), was a native of Mississippi. She died when he was but a child, and when he was about 14 years of age he went to Litchfield, Illinois, where he resided some two years. His father's death then ocurred, after which he was a resident of various localities. Mr Charles' education was obtained principally in San Francisco, California, and Booneville, Missouri. Since attaining his sixteenth year he has been engaged in different ocupations, among which was that of a peanut boy on the Illinois Central Railroad, his route being from Centralia, Illinois, to Dubuque, Iowa. In 1873 he began work in the Republican office in Maryville, Missouri, and in that office he learned the trade at which he is now employed. There he remained till the spring of 1879, when he went to St Joseph and worked in C.P. Kingsbury's job office till the spring of 1880, at which date he went to Burlington Junction and worked for J. H. Bryant & C. till he became associated with the gentleman, forming the present firm. Mr Charles is a member of Burlington Junction Lodge No 442, A.F. and A.M., Burlington Lodge No 404, I.O.O.F., and Nodaway Valley Lodge No 478, I.O.G.T.

[page 691] William Bush, farmer, section 2, post office Burlington Junction. The subject of this sketch is a native of Germany, and was born March 16, 1838. When about fifteen years of age he came to America, landing at New York City, in the year 1853, and soon located in Stephenson County, Illinois. He was educated in the German schools principally, while in Germany. His father being a miller, William was also reared in that business till the time of his immigration to America, and since then he has followed farming. In 1865, he moved to Hardin County, Iowa, where he remained till the spring of 1872, when he moved to his present location. His landed estate consists of 205 acres, all of which he has earned himself. In 1861, he enlisted during the war in Company G, Forty-sixth Illinois, and remained in service for twenty-six months, participating in many of the most important battles fought during that time. January 1, 1868, Mr Bush was married to Miss Matilda Neidel. She was born in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, March 14, 1848, and came to Illinois when five years of age. In 1866, she moved to Iowa where her marriage occurred. Mr and Mrs B., have a family of five children: Willie H.L., born October 20, 1868; Charley F., born July 23, 1870; Geo. R., born March 21, 1872; Albert P., born June 6, 1874, and Harvey E., born November 9, 1876.

[page 691] Joseph Carter, farmer and stock dealer, section 25, post office Burlington Junction, was born in Union County, Ohio, October 23, 1818. He was reared in his [page 692] native county and there resided till 1856, when he emigrated to Bremer County, Iowa, remaining as a citizen of that county till 1865. He then came to Nodaway County. He has followed farming from boyhood and now is the owner of a farm consisting of 372 acres, conveniently located and improved. In February, 1840, he was married to Miss Ann Wilson, who was born in Guernsey County, Ohio, in the year 1822. She died August 24, 1878. They had nine children, seven of whom are living, William, James, Marcus, French, Fay, Joseph, and Mary.

[page 692] William J. Carter, stock dealer and agriculturist, section 27, post office Burlington Junction. The subject of this sketch is the possessor of 240 acres of land, and resides within three and a half miles of Burlington Junction. He was born in Union County, Ohio, March 10, 1842, and when twelve years of age his parents, Lemuel and Jemima Carter, immigrated to Butler County, Iowa, where the former now resides, his mother having died. Mr C. was married October 18, 1870, to Miss Eliza J. Brown, a native of Coles county, Illinois. She was born July 19, 1843. In 1875 they moved to their present location. They have had five children: Mabel, born May 26, 1872, and died July 31, 1877; Lemuel D., born December 15, 1874; Frank P., born April 14, 1876; James A., born January 3, 1878; Isabel, born October 24, 1879. Mr C. is a member of Burlington Lodge No 442, A.F. and A.M.

[page 692] William Carter, farmer, section 34, post office Burlington Junction, was born in Union County, Ohio, October 10, 1844, and, when twelve years of age, his parents moved to Bremer County, Iowa. In 1865, he came to Nodaway County, Missouri, where he has since resided. He has followed tilling the soil from boyhood, and owns 400 acres of land in the banner county of the state. He is a member of Quitman Lodge, No 196, A.F. and A.M. Mr C. was married January 16, 1873, to Miss Margaret Shelton, who was born in Jackson County, Indiana, July 26, 1853. Her father James H. Shelton, was a native of Kentucky, and her mother of Rhode Island. The family of Mr and Mrs C. consists of four children: Ella H., born November 4, 1873; William, born February 18, 1876; Joseph, born November 18, 1877, and Mary, born October 19, 1880.

[page 694] George D. Cole, farmer, section 20, post office Burlington Junction, is a native of Piqua County, Ohio, where he was born, December 14, 1853. In 1863, he came to Nodway County, Missouri, with his father, Shadrach Cole, who died in the year 1868. His mother died in the year 1860. George D. now resides on the farm where his father first located, and has adhered closely to agricultural pursuits during life. His farm embraces 160 acres of land, and is very well improved. He was married June 19, 1879, to Miss Jennie M. Maning, a daughter of Dr Edward Maning, now of Quitman. She was born in Andrew County, Missouri, August 1, 1860. They have had one child, which is now deceased.

[page 694] Thomas Corken. The subject of this sketch now resides with his son, Samuel Corken, and is supposed to be the oldest man living in Nodaway County, having been born February 29, 1792, in Chester County, Pennsylvania. When but six years of age his parents started for the territory of Ohio, their mode of transportation being principally down the Ohio River on flat boats as far as the mouth of the Scioto River. They then made their way up that stream by a keel boat and landed at Chillicothe, Ross County, though having been compelled to walk a portion of the way while making their journey. At the time of landing there the household furniture was rather limited, and the town consisted of but a few inhabitants, the buildings all being of logs and split and hewed floors. A noted hotel in the place was called the "Red Lion House." The elder Mr C and his family shortly located on what was known as the Hugh Bank Prairie and began farming, not on a very large scale, however, as they had to manufacture their own plows, which were mostly of wood and no iron. Flouring mills had not been erected, and in those parts not even a mill for grinding corn. Hominy and dried pumpkin were substituted for bread. Their meat was principally of wild game. Wolves, bears, &c., were numerous. Thomas' schooling was very much limited, having walked four miles while attending school, reading, writing and arithmetic being his only studies. He can remember when all merchandise used in Ross County was teamed from Philadelphia and New York City. October 1, 1812, he was called as one of a company for service in the war of that year, in which he served forty days, and for which he now draws a pension. For fifty years he has been a member of the M.E. Church. Mr C was married June 10, 1819, to Miss Rebecca Jones, who died in this county in October, 1866, she having come here [page 695] with her husband in 1862. Their family consisted of eleven children, six of whom are now living: Henry, Rachel, Sarah, Samuel and Rebecca. Mr C. until within the past six years, has been quite strong, and has been a hard working and an honest man.

[page 695] Henry Corken, farmer and raiser of hedge plants and small fruits, section 15, post office Burlington Junction, is the eldest son of Thomas Corken, of whom mention is made elsewhere. He was born in Ross County, Ohio, July 24, 1820. He was reared in his native county, receiving but a limited education, and was there engaged as an agriculturist till April, 1857, when he moved to Knox County, Illinois. In April, 1862, he located in Nodaway County, Missouri, where he has since resided. At the time that he became a citizen here, he was in poor circumstances, being in debt some $3,000, and possessing nothing but his household goods. The debt he has since paid in full, and now owns a farm near the town of Burlington Junction of eight acres, which is improved equal to any in the county. To make a start in this county, he was compelled to work as a common laborer for some two years, and in the year 1865, he began the raising of hedge plants, which he has since continued. He has also taken a great interest in the cultivation of small fruits, having a fine vineyard. October 3, 1841, Mr Corken was married to Miss Catharine Kilbourn, who was born in Ross County, Ohio, June 6, 1826. They have six children living: Minerva C. (now Mrs Herriman); Adassa J. (now Mrs Dougherty); John D., Rachel V. (now Mrs Meacham); Thomas M., Henrietta (now Mrs Sunderland). Two children are deceased: William E. and Charles E. Mr and Mrs Corken are members of the M.E. Church. Mrs C.'s parents, Hiram and Anna (White) were natives of New York.

[page 695] Samuel Corken, proprietor of the Burlington Mineral Springs, section 20, post office Burlington Junction, is a native of Ross County, Ohio, and was born October 3, 1837. He is a son of Thomas Corken, a pioneer of Ohio, and was reared and educated in his native county, there being engaged in farming till 1860, the time of his emigration to Nodawa County, Missouri. He has since adhered closely to farming and the raising of stock. He began life in this county with a small amount of means, but is now in a thriving condition, having a farm of 190 acres and well improved. His residence is a fine structure, and presents a pleasing view. It is situated quite close to the springs, and also to the lake. Mr Corken was united in marriage to Miss Ellen G. Westfall, October 12, 1862, who was born in Ross County, Ohio, February 14, 1841. They [page 696] have seven children: James S., Jessie, Thomas A., Eliza, Robert D., Elmer E., and Henry. Mr and Mrs C. are members of the M.E. Church.

[page 697] Henry Deets, farmer, section 29, post office Wilcox, was born on the sea, while his parents were immigrating from Germany to America, on the 13th of September, 1846. They landed at Baltimore, and located in Jackson County, Indiana. Henry's father died in Indiana in a few months after their arrival, and when but twelve years of age, his mother died. The maintainance of life depending on his own exertions, his educational advantages were very limited. In 1855, he went to Louisa County, Iowa, where he remained till 1857, when he returned to Indiana. Previous to this time he had been on a farm. He then began railroading, [page 698] which business he followed for a period, when, in the year 1855, he went to California, where he was engaged in mining till the spring of 1867, then returning to Indiana. In 1867, Mr Deets came to his present location. He now has a well improved farm, which he has by his own efforts made from the wild and unbroken land. In April, 1867, he was married to Miss Sarah E. Kelley, of Indiana.

[page 699] E.E. Gittings, of the firm of Gittings & Neighbors, lumber dealers of Burlington Junction and Fairfax, is a native of Kentucky, and was born in Union County July 27, 1830. When three years of age his parents moved to Indiana, where they remained one year, and then located in Illinois. After residing in different counties for a few years, they settled in Henderson County. E.E. was reared as a farmer boy, and followed the same in Henderson County, Illinois, till 1872, when he emigrated to Neosho County, Kansas, where he was engaged in the mercantile trade for two years. In the year 1874 he moved to Nodaway County, Missouri, and located on a farm, where he remained till 1876, then coming to Maryville, where he was engaged in the lumber trade till 1879. At that time he came to his present location, making his first sale of lumber on the 9th of July, of that year. He is now one of the leading citizens of the town. Mr G. is a member of the town board, and is greatly interested in the welfare of the city. He was married January 29, 1859, to Miss Mary R. Mudd. She was born in Hart county, Kentucky, November 9, 1840. They have six children: Laura, William W., Thattius, Electus, Anna M., and Joseph.