JOSEPH ROARK

From the 1887 History of Vernon County, Missouri, p. 870:

Joseph Roark

(Farmer, Section 9, Post-office, Montevallo).

   The subject of this sketch, the owner of 200 acres of good land in this township, is closely occupied in attending to the chosen duties of farm life, and upon this tract is putting forth his energies and labor with a zeal that cannot but result profitable.  Originally from Barren county, Ky., he was born April 20, 1828.  His father was Josiah Roark, also of Kentucky nativity, and a Baptist preacher, as well as farmer.  He removed to Cole county, Mo., at an early day and died there at the age of 84, after a useful and well spent life.  When a young man he married Miss Ruth Campbell, of the same State as himself, and bore a family of ten children, Joseph being the fifth child.  When eight years old he (Joseph) accompanied his parents to Cole County, Mo., living there engaged in farming until 1867, when he came to Vernon county.  Since then his career has been noted.  In 1849 he was first married to Sarah Proctor, of Kentucky birth, who died in 1863, leaving six children:  William Nathan, Benjamin J., Moses R., Joseph G., John E. and Sarah A., wife of William Robinson.  His second marriage occurred in 1863 to Miss Georgie Alexander, also born in Kentucky.  Their seven children who now survive, are Jane, Mollie, Minnie, Cammiley, Alice, Florence and Frank.  Mr. Roark has held the position of constable and has also been school director.  He is a member of the A. F. and A. M., and also belongs to the Christian Church, his wife being a member of the Methodist denomination.  Mr. R. is an honest, unassuming farmer, but honorable in all his dealings.  He has an orchard of four acres, and his place has upon it fair improvements.

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