WILLIAM H. ROBINSON

From the 1887 History of Vernon County, Missouri, p. 685-686:

William H. Robinson

(Of the Firm of Robinson Bros., Dealers in Lumber, Etc.).

   In every community and among all classes there are always some men who become leaders in whatever they do, whether of a professional, agricultural or commercial nature; and these same men are the ones who, perhaps unconsciously, take a prominent active interest in promoting any movements which may be thought capable of tending to the welfare of the county or vicinity in which they reside.  Such a one is Mr. Robinson, a native Missourian, and a man held in the highest esteem by every one who knows him.  Though only about 30 years of age he has risen to a position in life which many older in years and experience might well feel proud to occupy, and at this time he has interest in various enterprises extending over a wide range of country.  Beside the yard at Nevada conducted by himself and brother, they are the proprietors of the yards at Walker, Harwood, Eldorado Springs, Meridian, Lamar, Barton City, Liberal and Minden, Mo., at each of which places a large and increasing patronage has been accorded them.  Their annual sales reach a large figure and it goes without saying that their business is excelled by no similar kind in Southwest Missouri.  William H. Robinson was born in Monroe county, Mo., December 1, 1855, and is related to some of the most prominent families of that locality.  His father, Walter M. Robinson, was a Kentuckian by birth, and a large and successful merchant.  In 1849 he fell a victim to the gold fever then so prevalent and went to California.  His wife's maiden name was Miss Clara Moss, and she became the mother of seven children, William being the youngest.  His boyhood days were passed in a manner similar to those of other youths of the neighborhood about his home, and when old enough he entered a store and there began his mercantile experience.  Upon coming to Nevada in 1877 he clerked for Harry C. Moore for two years, and then embarked in the calling which has since received his close attention, the results of this business having already been referred to.  As a citizen no less than as a business man Mr. Robinson has gained distinction; a favorite with all, he enjoys the confidence of those with whom he is acquainted and, be it said, few men know better how to appreciate such relationships and honor their laws.  No deserving or popular enterprises has ever been introduced into Nevada or the territory tributary thereto but that has been warmly commended by him.  One result of his liberality was seen in the military company in which the people of Nevada had a just pride, and which received the name of the Harding-Robinson military company, in honor of the two men whose help was liberally bestowed.  Recently he has laid out an addition to the town which is already growing rapidly; this is located in the northeast portion of the place.  Mr. Robinson's estimable wife was formerly Miss Ella Berry, to whom he was married November 5, 1880.  She was born in Springfield, Ill.  Two bright and interesting children are in their family, Earle and Verne.

[Transcribed by Marty Patton]

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