DAVID H. JENNINGS

From the 1887 History of Vernon County, Missouri, p. 732-733:

David H. Jennings

(Schell City).

   Mr. Jennings has not yet reached the age of 50 years, having been born at Parkersburg, Wood county, Va. (now West Virginia), August 17, 1838.  David and Elizabeth Jennings, formerly Fisher, were also Virginians by birth, and as an occupation the father gave his attention to the trade of painting.  Young David was the youngest of five children and is the only son who now survives.  He was reared in his native State until 15 years of age, then removed to Will county, Ill., where he grew to maturity on a farm, obtaining a thorough, practical knowledge of agricultural life.  At the outbreak of the Civil War he enlisted from St. Louis in the three months’ service, but subsequently served as clerk under Commander Able in the transport squadron for 18 months.  Following the expiration of this term, he joined the 4^th Illinois cavalry, and was a member of a company that acted as orderly at headquarters, serving with Gen. Grant in the Army of the Tennessee until after the surrender of Vicksburg.  Upon the cessation of hostilities Mr. Jennings returned to his home in Illinois and there remained occupied in farming as best he could for some years; but on account of a wound received at Bogue Voglair, Miss., while fighting he was somewhat incapacitated for hard work.  Later on he became engaged in running on the river as clerk of a steamboat, continuing to be thus occupied until 1869 when he settled in St. Clair county, Mo., and there resumed farming operations for two years.  In 1874 Schell City became his home, and it was not long before his influence and worth were recognized and felt.  Receiving the appointment of postmaster at this place, he discharged the duties connected with that position until October, 1885, in a most acceptable manner.  In the meantime he had also been express agent.  Since the time mentioned Mr. Jennings has been interested in the hardware and insurance business, and in each of these branches has done well.  His wide and popular acquaintance has had not a little to do with the success attending his efforts, though his upright manner of doing business has been sincerely appreciated.  In 1870 Miss Margaret E. Maxfield became his wife, she having been born and reared in Illinois.  Three children are in their family:  Mamie G., Pearl and Eddie W.  Mr. J. belongs to the I. O. O. F. and G. A. R., and in the latter order has occupied the Commander’s chair.

[Transcribed by Becky Siple]

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