RAGLAND, Frank
Bear Creek Township, Henry County
born: Dec 19 1871, Clinton, Henry Co, MO
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:492
Frank Ragland, owner of a splendid farm of 300 acres in Bear Creek township, is a native of Henry County. Mr. Ragland purchased his farm in 1912 and it is a fertile and well watered tract, crossed by Panther Creek and situated in the southeastern part of Bear Creek township. Mr. Ragland was born in Clinton, Missouri, December 19, 1871, the son of Robert H. and Laura E. (Gillespie) Ragland. Robert H. Ragland, his father, was born in 1839 and died in March, 1906. He was born in Monroe County Missouri, the son of Nathaniel Ragland, a native of Kentucky, who was one of the Missouri pioneers. Nathaniel Ragland came to Henry County in the early forties and entered Government land, two and a half miles north of Clinton. He improved this tract and became prominent in the affairs of Henry County. Robert H. Ragland became owner of a farm north of Clinton which he sold when he located in Clinton. He served as constable of Clinton township and was deputy sheriff of Henry County for eight years. He later bought a farm in Bates County upon which he resided for a few years, and at the time of his death, made his home with his son Fred in Clinton. To Robert H. and Laura E. Ragland were born seven children: Ernest A., Harrison, Arkansas; Fred W., killed by a train in Clinton, in October, 1905; Frank, subject of this sketch; Robert, deceased; Mrs. Annie Wyatt, Shawnee township, Henry County; Roland and Auda, deceased. Mrs. Laura E. (Gillespie) Ragland was born February 11, 1838, and departed this life July 31, 1894. She was twice married, her first husband being Tolliver H. Whittaker, and to this marriage three children were born; George A., deceased; Mrs. Mary Elbertha Hoover, Grinnell, Kansas; Tolliver H., deceased. Frank Ragland was educated in the district schools and he accompanied his parents to Bates County in 1881. After two years' residence in Bates County, he returned to Henry County and made his home with his uncle, George Blakemore, and operated the Blakemore farm for twelve years. Later he spent two years in Duluth, Minnesota, and returned to Henry County in 1901. For the ensuing six years he resided on a farm north of Clinton. For the next four years he rented a place in Bear Creek township, and then purchased his present farm. Mr. Ragland is engaged in general farming and stock raising. January 10, 1893, Frank Ragland and Miss Ella Middlecoff were united in marriage. This marriage has been blessed with nine children, all of whom are at home with their parents: Walter F., born January 14, 1896, recently enlisted in the United States Navy; Robert N., born October 12, 1897; Jehu Baker, born October 25, 1899; Howard L., born March 5, 1902; Clara Belle, born June 27, 1903; John W., born March 14, 1906; Ernest Henry, born December 20, 1909; Calvin Land, born June 1, 1911; Mary Elizabeth, born March 19, 1914. Mrs. Ella (Middlecoff) Ragland was born on a farm five miles east of Clinton in Deer Creek township July 8, 1872, the daughter of J. W. and Elizabeth (Land) Middlecoff. J. W. Middlecoff was born December 10, 1822, and died January 19, 1910. Mrs. Elizabeth (Land) Middlecoff was born April 6, 1834, and departed this life on March 27, 1887. She was born in Belleville, Illinois, the daughter of Aaron Land, a native of Tennessee. The first wife of J. W. Middlecoff was Amy W. Anderson, who bore him three children: James, John and Helen. James Middlecoff served in the Civil War and is deceased. John lives in Los Angeles, California. Helen died in infancy. The second marriage of J. W. Middlecoff was with Elizabeth Land, who bore him children as follow: Byron Cicero and Lucy Ann, deceased; Aaron Land, Milan, Tennessee; Clara, wife of J. C. Inlow, Clinton, Missouri; Lawrence, was an attorney in Los Angeles, California, and is now deceased; Maryline, wife of John Foster, Lewis Station, Henry County; Judge Jehu Baker, a successful attorney and probate judge of Duluth, Minnesota; Elmer, Seattle, Washington; Walter Whitfield, an attorney, Los Angeles, California; Mrs. Ella Ragland; Archie, Los Angeles, California. J. W. Middlecoff was born in Hagerstown, Maryland, and moved to Belleville with his parents when a child. He came to Henry County in 1866 and his first year in this county was spent on a farm north of Clinton. In 1867 he settled permanently on a farm five miles east of Clinton. He improved a large tract of land and built a home for himself and family, hauling the lumber from Warsaw, Missouri. He spent the rest of his days on this farm, reared his splendid family and became one of the most prominent citizens of Henry County. He was president of the Henry County Bank and was one of the wealthy and substantial citizens of this county. The Middlecoff family is an old American family, the history of which begins with Peter Mittelkauff, who sailed from Rotterdam, Holland, and arrived at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, August 24, 1728. Mr. Ragland is a Democrat and is affiliated with the Woodmen of the World, Lodge No. 250, La Due, Missouri. He and Mrs. Ragland and the children worship at Teays Chapel Methodist Episcopal Church.

RANEY, T. H.
Honey Creek Township, Henry County
born: Sep 20 1882, Springfield Twp, Henry Co, MO
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:631
T. H. Raney, postmaster and general merchant at Garland, Missouri, is a native son of Henry County. He was born in Springfield township, five miles south of Calhoun in 1882, and is a son of A. G. and Martha M. (Goff) Raney. A. G. Raney, the father, is a native of Kentucky, and was brought to Missouri by his parents when he was two years old. He was reared and educated in this State and settled in Henry County, prior to the Civil War. He and his wife now reside on their old home place in Springfield township. A. G. and Martha M. (Goff) Raney are the parents of the following children: Robert Arthur, a grocer at Fairmount Park, Kansas City, Missouri; T. H., the subject of this sketch; Albert D., a farmer in Springfield township. T. H. Raney was educated in the public schools of Springfield township. He remained at home until he was twenty-four years of age, when he engaged in farming, which he followed for four years. In 1909 he purchased the J. T. Cheatham store at Garland, Missouri, and since that time he has been successfully engaged in the mercantile business here. He carries a very complete line of groceries, dry goods, shoes and hardware, and in fact, everything usually found in a modern department store, only his is known as a general store. The difference between a department store and a general store seems to be that the former is located in the city, while the latter is found in the country. Mr. Raney has built up a large trade in the village of Garland, and the rich surrounding country tributary to that trading point. He is a capable business man and a progressive merchant, and the success that has come to him is well merited. Mr. Raney was married March 15, 1905, to Miss May Louise McAllister, daughter of James and Sarah Young McAllister of Springfield township, Henry County. Mrs. Raney's mother is a native of Missouri, and her father was born in Indiana; he came to Missouri about fifty years ago, shortly after the close of the Civil War, and now resides in Henry County, about seven miles south of Windsor. Mrs. Raney is one of the following children born to her parents: Ed; Elsie; Mrs. Archie Ferguson, Windsor, Missouri; William, Windsor, Missouri; Mary Louise, wife of T. H. Raney, the subject of this sketch; Maud, married Mark Dewey, Gridley, Kansas; Herman, now in the Aviation Corps of the United States Army, and D. Roy, a student in the University of Missouri.

RAY, Alonzo
Roscoe Township, St. Clair County
born: 1823, Portage Co, OH
Source:1883 History of St. Clair County MO, National Historical Co. Pg:1204
ALONZO RAY, merchant, was born in Portage County, Ohio, May 10, 1823. His parents were John and Elmira (Root) Ray, the former a native of West Virginia, and the latter of Vermont. They reared six children, of whom Alonzo was the second child. He was brought up and educated in his native state, and in 1843 he went to Chicago, where he worked two years at the harness trade. He then located at Lafayette, Indiana, and was occupied at his chosen calling two years, and also at various places till 1849, when he emigrated to California. There he was interested in mining till 1851. Returning to Kansas, where he was engaged in farming till 1867. Then he came to Roscoe and has since been engaged in merchandising. He has held the office of justice of the peace for some years, and he was postmaster of this place for seven years. Mr. Ray has been three times married, first to Miss Fannie Eyemer, of New York, November 26, 1853. Her death occurred June 14, 1855. He was again married February 5, 1856, to Mrs. Caroline Kinyon, a daughter of James Lee. She died August 23, 1876. He was married to his present wife January 8, 1878, her name being Mrs. Mary L. Barr. He has two children by his second wife, Restory and Willis H.

RAYMOND, George
Bethlehem Township, Henry County
born: Mar 27 1832, NY
Source:1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg Pg:789
George Raymond, farmer, section 13. The subject of this sketch originally from New York, was born March 27, 1832. His father, Jacob W. Raymond, was a native of Massachusetts, and was born in 1802. He was reared in Vermont, and was there married to Miss Mary Powers, who was born in that state. They moved to New York in 1831, and in the fall of 1842, came to Benton County, Missouri. The father died in Hickory County, Missouri, in 1864. George was brought up and educated in Benton County, and spent his youthful days in farming. He remained a resident of that county till February, 1868, when he came to Henry County, settling on a part of the farm he now owns. Upon arriving here he had comparatively nothing, but by his energy, perseverance and close attention to business, he has risen to prominent financial standing. He now has a well improved farm of 170 acres, and is known as one of the most successful farmers in his township. Mr. Raymond was married July 26, 1854, to Miss Lydia Fuqua, a Kentuckian by birth. They have four children: Paschal W., Mary M., John W. and Horace R. Mr. R. is a member of the board of school directors of his district.

RAYMOND, Ransom M.
Appleton Township, St. Clair County
born: 1838, Orleans Co, NY
Source:1883 History of St. Clair County MO, National Historical Co. Pg:1121
RANSOM M. RAYMOND, of the Appleton City Carriage Works, came originally from Orleans County, New York, where he was born April 30, 1838. When four years old he was taken by the family to Benton County, Missouri, where he was reared on his father's farm. In 1858 he moved to Quincy, Hickory County. In 1861 he enlisted in Company A, Eighth Missouri Cavalry, and served until discharged, January 25, 1865. Returning to Quincy, he worked at the blacksmith trade until 1868. when he went to Greenfield, Dade County, where he lived until 1876. Then he established his present business in Appleton City. Mr. Raymond was married June 1, 1865, to Miss Harriet B. J. Long, of Dade County, Missouri. They have six children: Lulu, Ottie, Helen, Frank, Alice and Robert. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity.

REAM, John
Fields Creek Township, Henry County
born: Oct 17 1839, Richland Co, OH
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:735
John Ream, now deceased, was a prominent farmer and stockman of Fields Creek township. He was a native of Ohio, born in Richland County, October 17, 1839, a son of Henry Ream, a native of Pennsylvania, who came to Grundy County, Missouri, in 1853, and here spent the remainder of his life. John Ream received his education in the public schools of Ohio and Missouri. In 1910 he came to Henry County and purchased a farm of one hundred fifty-four acres, about three miles north of Clinton in Fields Creek township. Here he was engaged in farming and stock raising until the time of his death. He was a good citizen and held in the highest esteem by all who knew him, and his death was not only a loss to his family but to Henry County. Mr. Ream died May 10, 1917. John Ream was united in marriage June 29, 1886, with Miss Eleanor Rhea, a daughter of Archibald and Sarah (Sterrett) Rhea, both now deceased. John and Eleanor (Rhea) Ream, were the parents of the following children: Ethel, died at the age of two years; Robert Rhea was born in Grundy County in 1889 and resides on the home place with his mother; John S. was born in 1896, educated in the public schools of Hickory County and enlisted in United States Navy at St. Louis, December 27, 1917, and while at the Great Lakes Training Station on Lake Michigan, contracted pneumonia and died April 21, 1918, his remains being interred in the Rural Dale Cemetery at Clinton, Missouri [ed. note: the location of this cemetery is not correct, probably in Trenton, Missouri]. John Ream was first married to Miss Elizabeth Casteel of Trenton, Missouri, who died December 23, 1884, leaving the following children: Mrs. Anna Smith, Lamar, Colorado; J. M. Trenton, Missouri; B. T., Trenton, Missouri; Lafayette, deceased; Mrs. Nettie Ramage, deceased, and Mrs. Katurah Ramage, resides east of Clinton, Missouri. Mrs. Eleanor (Rhea) Ream is a descendant of a Virginia and Missouri pioneer family. Her father, Archibald Rhea died in 1863 when Mrs. Ream was about one year old, and his remains are buried in the Pickett Cemetery in Mercer County, Missouri. Her mother died in 1896 and is buried in Trenton, Missouri. Mrs. Ream is one of four children born to her parents, as follow: Margaret, deceased; Abriska Stewart, deceased; Samuel, Adairsville, Kentucky; and Eleanor, who married John Ream, the subject of this sketch. Robert Rhea Ream, son of John and Eleanor (Rhea) Ream, was reared and educated in Grundy and Hickory counties, Missouri, and in 1910, came to Henry County, and since that time has been engaged in farming and stock-raising on the home place. He was united in marriage in 1910 with Miss Addie M. Pierce, a daughter of Charles and Minnie B. Loomis Pierce, who settled in Hickory County, Missouri, several years ago, coming from Iowa. Mrs. Ream was the only child born to her parents, who now reside in Hickory County. To Mr. and Mrs. Ream have been born three children, Lois Louise, Francis Marion and Robert Pierce. Mr. Ream is one of the progressive young men of Henry County and the Ream family are well and favorably known in this section.

REAVIS, Edwin M.
Bear Creek Township, Henry County
born: Oct 13 1830, KY
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:457
Edwin M. Reavis, deceased, pioneer of Bear Creek township, was born in Kentucky, October 13, 1830, and departed this life in Henry County, March 30, 1882. He was the son of Edwin M. Reavis of Bowling Green, Kentucky. Edwin M. Reavis was married in Texas in the fall of 1858 to Mary Margaret Hunt, born November 29, 1836, in Saline County, Missouri, the daughter of William and Azubah Hunt, an account of whom is given in connection with the sketch of E. B. Hunt, of Walker township. Soon after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Reavis came to Henry County and lived for a few years upon the farm he rented of E. B. Hunt until 1865. They then bought a farm of 100 acres of Joseph Capehart. This farm has been divided since Mr. Reavis' death and the home place, which is one of the prettiest improved places in Henry County, consists of sixty acres. Formerly there was a large orchard on the place, but several seasons of drought have played havoc with the trees. During the Civil War the family suffered from the depredations of Jayhawkers and lost part of their live stock. The children born to Edwin M. and Mary Reavis are as follows: Elizabeth C., born August 8, 1859, died 1875; Susan M., William, and Sun (triplets) died in infancy, born August 2, 1861, the former of whom died November 11, 1867; William E. Reavis, at home. Mrs. Mary Jane Chrissman, a widow, living at La Due, Missouri; John A., born April 6, 1865, died August 24, 1866; James B., born October 28, 1866, died November 4, 1867; Nancy E., wife of R. C. Grigsby, La Due, Missouri; Alice C., William E., at home with their mother; Joseph H., Drady, North Dakota; Elmer S., California; infant son, born and died December 6, 1879; Florence M., born August 6, 1882, died November 4, 1897; Joseph H., born September 6, 1872, died November 29, 1918. Mrs. Reavis has six grandchildren: Edwin, Winona, Glenbourne, and Joseph, children of Joseph Reavis. Elmer S. has a daughter, Florence. Nannie Grigsby has one son, Cecil. Mrs. Reavis and her son are members of the Bear Creek Methodist Church. In the early days she attended the Old Adobe Church, a picture of which through the courtesy of Miss Reavis is reproduced in this volume. The old-timers whom she knew in the early days were Mrs. Kintner, Mrs. Nick Erhart, and Mrs. Cleghorn, who were the first she met in this part of Henry county. She recalls that they would attend divine service at the Adobe Church, coming on horseback, and that the prairie grass which grew so luxuriantly on the unbroken prairie land was as high as the horse's back. Deer and game were plentiful and there were great droves of wild turkeys, quail, and prairie chickens, all of which have disappeared with the settling up of the country. Mrs. Reavis has many old curios and family relics which have been handed down to her from her ancestors, among them being an old walnut chest which was given her by Grandma Hunt, and was made by Isaac Whitaker in 1795. This chest was made for his daughter, May Whitaker, in North Carolina. He was Mary M. Hunt Reavis' great-great uncle.

RECTOR, William Henry
Bogard Township, Henry County
born: Jul 7 1875, Bogard Twp, Henry Co, MO
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:813
William H. Rector - The northwestern part of Henry County was largely settled by people from Ohio who came to this county to found new homes after the close of the Civil War. The returned Union veterans, finding the best places usurped in their Eastern home localities by the stay-at-homes, looked to the westward and heeded Horace Greeley's advice to "Go West." They came in scores and hundreds to western Missouri. Such a man was the father of William H. Rector, large land owner and stockman of Bogard township. William H. Rector was born July 7, 1875, in Bogard township, the son of Henry E. and Margaret (Clay) Rector. Henry Rector was born January 26, 1842, in Ohio and departed this life on April 8, 1875. His remains were laid to rest in Grant Cemetery, Cass County, Missouri. He was reared to young manhood in Ohio and enlisted in an Ohio Regiment of Volunteers for service in the Union Army on August 8, 1861. He faithfully served the Union on the southern battlefields for three years and received an honorable discharge from the service. Not content to remain at home while the victory had not yet been attained by the North, he again enlisted and served until the close of the war. He attained to the rank of captain of his company. Captain Rector came to Henry County after the close of the war and purchased land here, where he remained engaged in peaceful agricultural pursuits until his death. To Henry and Margaret Clay Rector were born three children: Henry and an infant, deceased; and William H. Rector, of this review. The mother of these children was born in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, January 26, 1836, and she and Mr. Rector were married November 29, 1869, in Bogard township. She was the daughter of Henry Clay, a native of Pennsylvania, and early settler of Henry County. After the death of her first husband, Mrs. Rector married Leonard Elliot in 1884. Mr. Elliot died a few years later and the widow was then married on December 27, 1892, to Rev. Henry Willey. a United Brethren minister who passed away in 1914 at Urich, Missouri. Mrs. Margaret (Rector) Willey died on April 22, 1914. William H. Rector was reared to maturity in Bogard township, received his education in the district school of his neighborhood and learned to till the soil. Mr. Rector is owner of 525 acres of well-improved land which he, with the assistance of his sons, is tilling. He has from forty to fifty sheep and many cattle grazing on his broad acres. On September 5, 1894, William H. Rector was united in marriage with Miss Catherine Gamlin, who was born February 22, 1870, at Shipman, Macoupin County, Illinois. She is the daughter of John and Elizabeth (Baker) Gamlin, natives of England and now reside in Montgomery County, Illinois. To John and Elizabeth Gamlin were born the following children: Mrs. Catherine Rector; John, Bogard township; William, Sweet Water, Nebraska; Matthew, Jacksonville, Illinois; Joseph, Raymond, Illinois; Walter and Leroy, deceased; Mrs. Mary Burke, deceased; Mrs. Virgie Gamlin, Nokamis, Illinois; and Mrs. Nellie Henry, Raymond, Illinois. Mrs. William Rector was partly reared in Pettis County and was educated in the district schools of that county. To William H. and Catherine Rector were born children as follow: John W., farming with his father, married Caroline Stewart; Walter E., Howard D., Mary E., Ida M., Paul F., Herbert Russell, and Ellen Lucille, all of whom are at home with their parents. Mr. and Mrs. Rector are useful citizens who are popular with their neighbors and friends and are industrious and enterprising. Mr. Rector is a Republican and he and Mrs. Rector are members of the Presbyterian Church. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of Blairstown.

REDFORD, A. B.
Big Creek Township, Henry County
born: Jul 18 1829, Knox Co, TN
Source:1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg Pg:707
A. B. Redford, section 18, owes his nativity to Knox County, East Tennessee, where he was born July 18, 1819. His parents, Noah and Phebe (Dodson) Redford, were natives of Stokes County, North Carolina. In 1832 the family removed from North Carolina to Tennessee, and thence to Missouri, locating in Moniteau County. Here A. B. spent his youthful days on a farm. He was married in Johnson County in March, 1851, to Miss Hannah Anderson, of that county and a daughter of John Anderson, one of the early settlers of Johnson County and a Kentuckian by birth. After his marriage Mr. R. lived for about six years in Johnson County, and in March, 1857, he came to Henry County, purchasing the farm where he now resides. He has about 1,500 acres, all under fence, with 200 acres in timber, the balance being in pasture and cultivation, with a good residence and orchard. He makes a specialty of feeding and dealing in stock, and feeds annually about 100 head of steers and a like number of hogs. Mr. Redford has raised a family of four children, all of whom are married: Noah O., John E., Robert V. and Serepta A., (wife of John A. Overby). He is a member of the Masonic order, and Mrs. R. belongs to the M. E. Church South.

REDFORD, Archalus Bynum
Urich, Bogard Township, Henry County
born: Jul 18 1829, Knox Co, TN
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:344
Archalus Binum Redford, a Henry County pioneer now residing at Urich, is a native of Tennessee. He was born in Knox County July 18, 1829, a son of Noah and Phoebe (Dodson) Redford. Noah Redford was a native of North Carolina. He came to Missouri in 1834 and first settled in Moniteau County, and moved from there to Johnson County, where he spent the remainder of his life. He was a resident of Johnson County for over fifty years, and died in that county and his remains are buried at Warrensburg. His wife also died in Johnson County and is also buried at Warrensburg. A. Binum Redford is the only member of a family of eight brothers and sisters now living. Binum Redford came to Big Creek township, Henry County, in 1857, and first purchased two hundred acres of land at $7.50 per acre. He then entered one hundred sixty acres of Government land, which cost him seventy-five cents per acre, and he is now one of the large land owners of Henry County. He owns nine hundred ninety-nine acres. When Mr. Redford came here there were very few settlers in western Henry County, James Smith was the only settler in the vicinity where Mr. Redford located and the country was one broad expanse of unfenced prairie, and Mr. Redford recalls the days of free range with a sort of regret, common to the cattle men of the early days. There were no public schools when he came here and Clinton was a small hamlet. Mr. Redford has seen many changes in the sixty-one years of his residence in Henry County. When he came here there were a number of Osage Indians in this vicinity. They were friendly and inoffensive. During the Civil War Mr. Redford remained on his place and was one of the few men who had no trouble with either side, although some of his horses were taken. Mr. Redford's first wife was Hannah Anderson, to whom he was married in Johnson County, and the following children were born to this union: Mrs. Serepta Overbey, Urich, Missouri; Noah, deceased; John, deceased, and Robert, a farmer and stockman in Big Creek township. The mother of these children died in March, 1906, and Mr. Redford was married to Miss Dora Barnett, now deceased. Mr. Redford was united in marriage August 28, 1913, with Hannah N. Colson, widow of Archibald B. Colson, a Henry County pioneer, who settled in Walker township. He died in 1906. Mrs. Redford is a native of Missouri, born in Osage County, September 24, 1848. She is a daughter of Moses and Susan Glenn (Hibler) Sevier. They were early settlers in Henry County and came from Osage County in 1855. The father was a native of Birksville, Kentucky, and a grandson of Governor John Sevier, the first Governor of Tennessee. Moses Sevier was a captain of a Confederate company in the Civil War. He died September 11, 1876, aged sixty-eight years, at Dallas, Texas. His wife died in 1884. Mrs. Redford is the oldest of a family of ten children born to her parents, only two of whom are living. Mrs. Redford and Mrs. Pliny Hanes, Dallas, Texas. By her marriage to Archibald B. Colson, Mrs. Redford has seven children: Doctor John, Schell City; Mrs. Mattie Angle, Clinton, Missouri; Mrs. Laura Crissman, Bonham, Texas; Mrs. Mollie Clizer, Montrose, Missouri; Mrs. Gertrude Harness, Walker township, Henry County; B. S. Colson, Appleton City, Missouri, and Richard P., Montrose, Missouri. Mr. and Mrs. Redford are among the honored pioneers of Henry County and are highly respected in the county, which has been their home for over half a century.

REESE, Louis M.
Osceola Township, St. Clair County
born: 1850, Osceola, St. Clair Co, MO
Source:1883 History of St. Clair County MO, National Historical Co. Pg:1096
LOUIS M. REESE, dealer in lumber, etc., was born in Osceola, Missouri, in 1850, and was the son of Lewis M. Reese, originally from Tennessee. In 1866 Louis commenced working at the printing business, which he followed as compositor, and editor and publisher until 1881, having been connected with the Herald at Osceola, the Courier at Appleton City, and the Sun in Osceola. In the winter of 1881 he embarked in the lumber trade, and he is now doing a successful,business. He married Miss Emma J. Lewis in 1881, a daughter of Dr. L. Lewis, who was born in Virginia December 15, 1813. Dr. Lewis was a son of Howell Lewis and a grandson of Fielding Lewis, who married Bettie Washington, sister of George Washington. Dr. Lewis was a prominent physician. He came to Osceola in 1839, and for many years was county treasurer. Dr. Lewis died December 20, 1878. He was twice married, first to Mary Ferguson February 8, 1843. She died December 24, 1845. His second marriage occurred March 14, 1853, to Mary E. Reynolds. Politically Mr. R. is a Republican. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. fraternity.

REID, Alfred
Bethlehem Township, Henry County
born: Dec 25 1821, Howard Co, MO
Source:1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg Pg:790
Alfred Reid, farmer, section 7, is one of the earliest settlers of this county. John M. Reid, his father, was born in Madison County, Kentucky, and emigrated to Howard County, Missouri, in 1809. His wife, Margaret, was also of Madison County, and accompanied her father, Joseph Woolfskinn, to Howard County, Missouri, in 1810. They had two children. Alfred was born in Howard County December 25, 1821, and when quite young the family removed to Cooper County where they resided until about 1830. Thence going to Saline County they lived there till October, 1832, when they came to Henry County, settling near where Mr. R. now resides. Here he was reared among the trials and hardships of pioneer life, and has always followed agricultural pursuits. He has where he lives over 123 acres of well improved land. Mr. Reid was united in marriage December 21, 1848, to Miss Nancy Lee, a native of Howard County, Missouri. They have five children: James A. John W., Sarah M., Mary E. and Marcy A. From 1847 to 1850 Mr. R. was road overseer of Henry County.

REILING, Henry J.
Montrose, Deepwater Township, Henry County
born: Dec 26 1866, Deepwater Twp, Henry Co, MO
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:415
H. J. Reiling, manager of the Farmers Elevator and Supply Company, Montrose, Missouri, was born in Deepwater township, December 26, 1866, and is the son of Henry and Gertrude (Schistler) Reiling, natives of Germany who emigrated to America with their respective parents when young and located in Henry County, Missouri where both were reared to maturity. Henry Reiling died in Oklahoma in 1913, at the age of seventy-two years. Gertrude Reiling died in 1914, at the age of seventy years. They were parents of three children: H. J., the eldest of the family; John Reiling, died in Oklahoma; William lives on the old home place of the family in Deepwater township. Reared upon the home place of the family near Germantown, in Deepwater township, H. J. Reiling naturally took up the vocation of his forebearers and became a farmer. He rented the old Cordell farm in 1893, and in 1911 he purchased this tract of 169 acres located southwest of Montrose. He had this place nicely improved but suffered a severe loss from fire in 1914. He immediately rebuilt and continued to cultivate and improve his place until taking charge of the Farmers Elevator and Supply Company, upon its organization in 1915. Mr. Reiling is given thorough satisfaction in the performance of the duties of his position. Mr. Reiling was married in 1895 to Otillie Conrad, who was born at Benedict, Iowa, the daughter of Ben Conrad, who resides in Nebraska. Eight children have been born of this marriage, six of whom are living, namely: William, Charles, Henry, August, Ida, and Edward, all of whom are at home with their parents. Mr. Reiling is a Republican in politics and is affiliated with the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Montrose. He is universally recognized as an excellent citizen who believes in progressive methods of business and continual civic betterment and is always ready and willing to put his shoulder to the wheel and assist in moving things onward. The Montrose Farmers' Elevator and Supply Company was organized in June, 1915, with a capital of $6,000 all of which was subscribed by farmers in the vicinity of Montrose. The principal organizers were men of the highest standing in the community. The concern purchased an elevator which had been operated by other parties for some time previous. The grain elevator has a capacity of 6,000 bushels. During 1917 there were shipped from this elevator over 150,000 bushels of grain. The stock of this concern is divided among 123 stockholders. When the Company was first organized, H. J. Reiling was elected president; H. J. Hueser was elected vice-president; J. E. Dugan became secretary; John Swaters, Jr., served as treasurer. The present officers are: Lewis Tilling, president; P. J. Meyer, vice-president; John Swaters, Jr., secretary and treasurer; H. J. Reiling, manager.

RENTCHLER, Ben
Clinton, Clinton Township, Henry County
born: Oct 2 1871, West Point, NE
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:339
Ben Rentchler, a prominent merchant of Clinton, who for a number of years has been successfully engaged in the grocery business, is a native of Nebraska. He was born at West Point, in 1871, and is a son of Christian and Barbara (Braun) Rentchler, natives of Germany, who came to America in 1860 and settled at West Point, Nebraska, where the father homesteaded Government land. Later he was engaged in the grocery and bakery business at West Point for a few years and in 1875 came to Kansas City, Missouri, where he followed truck gardening until 1890. He then came to Henry County, Missouri, and bought a farm six miles northeast of Clinton. Later he moved to Clinton, where, after living retired for a few years, he died in September, 1913, and his remains are buried in Englewood Cemetery. His widow now resides in Clinton. They were the parents of four children, as follows: John, Kansas City, Missouri; Benjamin, the subject of this sketch; Mrs. Lizzie Schleiche, Rosedale, Kansas, and William, farmer, Clinton, Missouri. Ben Rentchler was educated in the public schools of Kansas City, Kansas, and Kansas City, Missouri, and in early life was engaged in truck gardening with his father. After coming to Henry County he followed farming until 1905, when he came to Clinton and for about a year was employed by the White Swan Mills. In 1906 he purchased the grocery business from W. S. Hodd, and since that time has been engaged in that business. He is one of the live, progressive and up-to-date grocers in Clinton. The Rentchler grocery store is one of the busy places of Clinton. Besides his two sons, Mr. Rentchler is assisted by two other clerks, and this business is an example of the result of square dealing and good service. Mr. Rentchler was united in marriage in October, 1905, to Miss Carrie Mann of Clinton, Missouri, a daughter of Valentine an Caroline Mann, early settlers in this vicinity, coming to Clinton in the sixties. Valentine Mann is now deceased and his widow resides in Clinton. To Mr. and Mrs. Rentchler have been born three children as follows: Phillip, Ernest and Freda, all of whom reside at home with their parents. The two boys assist their father in the store. Mr. Rentchler is one of the progressive citizens of Henry County and the Rentchler family stand high in the community.

REYNOLDS, Samuel M.
Shawnee Township, Henry County
born: n/a, NC
Source:1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg Pg:672
Samuel M. Reynolds, postmaster and junior member of the prominent firm of Wall & Reynolds, general merchants at Shawnee Mound, is the son of Samuel Reynolds, Esq., whose father, John Reynolds, was a native of North Carolina. The mother of our subject, formerly Ella Fewell, came originally from North Carolina. Samuel M. was the second of a family of three children. He was reared in the county of his birth, and was educated in the Fayette College and State University. After completing his education he returned to the home farm, upon which he remained until June, 1882, when he embarked in business at Shawnee Mound. In the same month he received the appointment of postmaster of the place.

RHOADES, John
Deepwater Township, Henry County
born: Jun 11 1826, SC
Source:1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg Pg:618
John Rhoades, farmer and stock raiser, section 12, is a native of South Carolina, and was born June 11, 1826, his parents being John Rhoades, originally of Pennsylvania, and Catherine (Burk) Rhoades, who was born in South Carolina. John accompanied the family to North Carolina when a child and there passed his younger days on a farm, and also in mining. In 1846 he crossed the mountains to Tennessee and located near Athens, where he was married October 18, 1848, to Miss Ann Richardson, who was a Georgian by birth, but principally brought up and educated in Tennessee. In 1852 Mr. Rhoades came to Missouri and settled in Barry County, where he bought land and improved a farm, residing there until 1861, when, on account of the troubles incident to the late war, he moved to Quincy, Illinois. After a time he returned to Missouri and located near Warsaw, there embarking in the stock business. In the spring of 1863 he went to Cooper County, which was his home for three years. He came to Henry County in the spring of 1866, and settled on the farm where he now resides, having 520 acres, with 480 under fence. This is an excellent body of land, the soil being a rich loam with clay subsoil. Underlaying a large portion of it is a vein of coal of good quality, varying in thickness from twenty to thirty inches, and in places comes near the surface. There is also a bed of fine blue sand stone which crops out on a branch and is said to be of a very superior quality This rock is in seams from one to eight feet in thickness, and will with out doubt be in great demand for building purposes in the near future. Mrs. Rhoades died in Barry County in December, 1858. He was subsequently married in Henry County, November 5, 1867, to Miss Harriet Trimble, a daughter of Peter Trimble. She was born in Bates County, and was there reared and educated. Mr. Rhoades has raised a family of four children: Martha M. (now Mrs. John Laster); Jennie 0. (wife of William A. Vanhoy, living near Goldendale, Washington Territory); G. B. and J. C. Mrs. R. is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, while her husband is an ancient Odd Fellow.

RHOADS, Alney M.
Clinton Township, Henry County
born: Jan 11 1821, Muhlenburg Co, KY
Source:1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg Pg:537
Judge Alney M. Rhoads, section 2, was born in Muhlenburg County, Kentucky, January 11, 1821. His father, Jacob Rhoads, also a native of that state, was born, February 10, 1786, while his mother, formerly Elizabeth Ripple, was born in Pennsylvania, October 29, 1788. They were married in Kentucky and were blessed with nine children, of whom Alney was the eighth. The senior Rhoads died in 1858, and his widow's death occurred in 1860. The family had removed to Edgar County, Illinois when our subject was quite young, and it was there that he was reared and educated. He followed, from boyhood, agricultural pursuits. In April, 1854, he came to Missouri, settling in Pettis County, where he was engaged in farming till the winter of that year. He then came to Henry County, Missouri, and the spring following, or in 1855, moved his family and located where he now resides. He has 412 acres of fine land, most of which is fenced, and his improvements generally are excellent. Mr. R. was married October 13, 1841, to Miss Susan Dickson, a native of Ohio. They have had nine children, two of whom are now living: Elizabeth and Jacob. Those deceased are: John F., Clarinda J., Jackson, Minerva P., Rebecca E., Lydia A. and Mary A. In 1860 Mr. Rhoads was elected justice of the peace of Clinton Township and served till 1863, when he was appointed county judge. He continued to serve in that capacity till 1865 when he resigned. Shortly afterward, however, he was appointed public administrator of the county, remaining in that office for two years. In 1872 he became a director and stockholder of the First National Bank of Clinton, and was identified with the institution till April, 1880. He then became a stockholder in the Henry County Bank, and in June, 1881, was elected its vice-president.

RHOADS, Jacob
Fairview Township, Henry County
born: Jul 30 1847, Edgar Co, IL
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:421
Jacob Rhoads, pioneer settler and president of the Bank of Deepwater, was born in Edgar County, Illinois, July 30, 1847, the son of Alney McLean (born January 11, 1820, died February 12, 1892) and Susan (Dixon) Rhoads (born 1820, died December 24, 1859). Alney McLean Rhoads was born in Kentucky and was the son of Jacob Rhoads, who migrated to Edgar County, Illinois, in 1823 and was a pioneer settler of that county. The parents of Jacob Rhoads were reared and married in Edgar County, Illinois, and resided there until 1854. In that year A. M. Rhoads, wife and six children, gathered up their belongings and drove in wagons across the intervening country to find a new home in Henry County, Missouri. They arrived at their destination after a three weeks' trip and located upon a tract of land situated on the banks of Deepwater Creek, two and a half miles north of the town of Deepwater. Mr. Rhoads built a cabin of poles, having a stick chimney and a dirt floor to supplement the tent which had sheltered them of nights when making the long trip from Illinois. This rude structure served as the family domicile while the father was cutting and hewing logs to build a cabin. This log cabin was erected in September of that year and served as the home of the family until 1868, when a frame house was built. There were nine children in the Rhoads family, only two of whom are living: Jacob, subject of this review, and Mrs. Elizabeth Moyer, Deepwater, Missouri. During the Civil War Jacob Rhoads enlisted for service in the Missouri State troops but was exempted from active service on account of the fact that he was deficient in the sight of one eye. He was married in 1868 and began life for himself upon his father's farm. The family estate was left to him and his sister at the time of his father's death, but Mr. Rhoads had accumulated land on his own account. He has sold some of his land but is the owner of a total of 870 acres in Henry County. Mr. Rhoads has been active during his entire life and only of recent years has he turned over the actual cultivation of his farm land to his sons. Every day he makes a trip to the farm and does some work about the place. He believes that it is better to wear out in the harness than to rust out as so many retired farmers do when they retire to a home in town. In 1868 Jacob Rhoads and Augusta V. Plecker were united in marriage. Mrs. Augusta Rhoads was born in Augusta County, Virginia, June 2, 1852, the daughter of John W. (born April 15, 1817, died March 25, 1877) and Anna Eliza (Craum) Plecker (born March 15, 1820, died December 19, 1889). The Plecker family came to Henry County in 1866 and settled upon a farm which had been owned by A. M. Rhoads previously. To them were born ten children, eight of whom were reared to maturity: David B. Plecker, Oklahoma; Edward J., North Dakota; John A., Oklahoma; James F., Deepwater, Missouri; A. H., Lynchburg, Virginia; Mrs. Mary Frances Pomeroy, Colorado; Margaret Ann, wife of James Moyer, Clinton township; Mrs. Augusta V. Rhoads. The children born to Jacob and Augusta Rhoads are as follow: Rosa Lee, John Alva, Dessie Ellen, Virginia Ann, Jettie Celeste, Harlan Francis, Mrs. Rosa Lee Sprouse lived in North Dakota, is deceased and left three children: Mrs. Edith Florence Wintsell, who has two children, Marie Wintsell and Nora; Earl Jacob Prouse, now in France serving in the National Army. Mrs. Bertha Virginia Lovell has one son, Eugene Merrill Lovell. John Alva Rhoads lives on the old home place, married Maude Haines and has nine children: Mrs. Cecil Audrey (Smith), Florence Floyd, Clifford Clyde, Carmel, Fay, Jacob Carroll, Fay Carmel, Ruby Lee, Raymond, Lois Virginia and Woodrow Wilson. Mrs. Dessie Allen De Armond, Deepwater, has two children: Goldie Fern and Dimple Violet. Mrs. Virginia Ann Woods lives in Deepwater. Mrs. Jettie Celeste Wilson, Deepwater, has one child, Leota. Harlan Francis, living on the Rhoads home place, married Gladys Holmes and has three children: Cleo Jacob, Opal Francis and Glenn, born July 4, 1918. Mr. Rhoads is a pronounced Democrat who has taken a more or less active part in political matters during his entire life. He was the first treasurer elected in Fairview township under the township organization and has filled several township offices. He is a director and president of the bank of Deepwater and assisted in the organization of this bank. He and Mrs. Rhoads are members of the Baptist Church. Prior to his election as president of the bank in 1917 Mr. Rhoads served several years as vice-president of the bank. It is a matter of history that A. M. Rhoads rebuilt Jackson's old water mill after the war and for a time it was operated by his oldest son until it passed into other hands. Jacob Rhoads recalls that the grinding of meal for the family table was done by tread-mill operated by "cow power." This mill was located southeast of Calhoun and he took corn there to be ground and remained all night. There was a "still" near this grist mill and the distiller would trade whiskey for corn, more whiskey being given in exchange for yellow corn than for white corn. In point of years of residence Jacob Rhoads is probably the oldest living pioneer settler in the southern part of Henry County. Despite his age he is energetic, well preserved and keeps well informed of daily happenings, taking a great interest in everything that is going on in the world. He believes that a man, especially a man who is getting old, should keep alive his interest in everything which happens and will thus prolong his life and live much more happily than otherwise. When a man begins to lose interest in things mundane, he is ready for the grave. In this case Jacob Rhoads has a long time yet to live and enjoy life.

RICE, Alexander M.
Polk Township, St. Clair County
born: 1845, Sumner Co, TN
Source:1883 History of St. Clair County MO, National Historical Co. Pg:1163
ALEXANDER M. RICE is a native of Sumner County, Tennessee, and was born July 30, 1845. His parents, William and Lena Rice, nee Cotton, were born in the same county, and they had a family of six daughters and four sons, of whom there are now living Henry S., Mary M., Sassandre Alice, and Alexander M. Rice. The latter was married in 1865 to Miss Ellen Hooper, daughter of Claybourne and Mary Hooper, of this county. They have had eight children, but only five survive: James A., Mary M., Anna, William E. and Estella. Mr. Rice commenced life for himself at the age of eighteen years, and in 1880 he purchased his first farm, of 100 acres, located on section 8 of this township, about eight or nine miles northeast of Osceola. Since that time he has been improving this place. He is very industrious and energetic, and is rapidly assuming a place among the enterprising agriculturists of the vicinity. His farm is well adapted for stock raising. Mr. Rice and his wife are identified with the M. E. Church, which meets at Sheldon's school house, this township. His political views are Democratic.

RICE, John C. Jr.
Davis Township, Henry County
born: 1838, KY
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:857
John C. Rice, late of Davis township, was one of the best known of the pioneer citizens of Henry County and was born in Kentucky in 1838 and died in 1894. He was a son of John C. and Abigail (Coleman) Rice, of North Carolina ancestry. The Rice family were pioneers in Kentucky and John C. Rice resided in his native State with his parents until 1854, when his parents went to Kansas and were there during the border warfare days. The elder Rice entered land in Kansas as did John C. Rice, but he was too young to obtain title to the land. The family became dissatisfied and started to make the return trip to Kentucky. While on the homeward journey the father of John C. Rice died at Sibley, Missouri, at the home of General Mosby. After his father's death, John C. Rice refused to return to Kentucky and came to Henry County, where he entered forty acres of land in Davis township, finally purchasing one hundred sixty acres and residing thereon with his mother and sister. Civil War breaking out and times being bad it became unsafe to remain in the neighborhood, and his mother and sister went to Warrensburg, Mr. Rice himself joining the 1st Iowa Cavalry Regiment. He served four years in the Union Army and was stationed at Little Rock and Arkansas points. during his term of service. He was accidentally injured and suffered from fever, being placed in the hospital at Little Rock. After his recovery he became a nurse in the hospital and remained there until he was mustered out of the service in 1865. He returned home and rented a farm from Captain Denny, near Calhoun, for one year. He then came back to his farm and erected a cabin, which is still standing. John C. Rice was married in 1868 to Lucetta Jane Walker, who was born in 1841 in North Carolina and is a daughter of Dr. William and Elizabeth (VanHoy) Walker, natives of North Carolina who migrated to Missouri in 1852. Doctor Walker settled in Walker township, Henry County, and was the first pioneer to build a home out on the unbroken prairie away from the streams and timber tracts. For forty years he practiced medicine. When Mrs. Rice came to Henry County with her parents the only homes in the near vicinity were those of Col. John VanHoy, Selathiel Stone, Doctor Gates and Uncle Billy Gates. These homes were located on the edge of timber. School was held in a log cabin for a three months term during the summer season. The only church in the neighborhood was the Adobe Church, in which services were held by Doctor Jones, an old line Presbyterian minister. The settlers went to Cook's Mill on Grand River in order to have their grist ground. The following children were born to John C. and Lucetta Jane Rice: Hugh, died at the age of three years; Clyde A.; Eva May, wife of John Warner, residing on the home farm, mother of two children, Mrytle and Sylvia. John C. Rice was a Republican and an elder of the Presbyterian Church. He was a supporter of the Grange and was a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. Mr. Rice was one of the best posted and best read men of his day. Being a constant student and reader, who was also a deep thinker, he wrote upon many subjects and the members of his family prize very highly the many literary productions which were accumulated during his life time. Clyde A. Rice, who is residing in the old home of his parents, is one of the best known of the young generation of farmers in Henry County. He was born on March 2, 1870, and received his education in the district school and the old Clinton Academy. Mr. Rice is a Democrat and has held various township offices including those of tax collector and constable. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church and the Woodmen of the World and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge No.772. Mr. Rice is secretary of the La Due Grain and Supply Company of La Due, Missouri. December 20, 1893, Clyde A. Rice and Estella Coates were married. To this marriage have been born four children: Edna, wife of Brady Morgan, mother of two children, Helen Louise and Hazel Lorene, Montrose, Missouri; Howard C., Bernard, and Ruby, at home. Mrs. Estella (Coates) Rice was born in Bear Creek township, March 9, 1871, and is a daughter of William S. and Nancy (Pinkston) Coates, natives of Kentucky. Mrs. Nancy (Pinkston) Coates was born in Kentucky, November 12, 1835, and is the daughter of Basil and Elizabeth (Noland) Pinkston, who came from their native State of Kentucky to Missouri in 1839 and settled in Rives County, now Henry, near Calhoun. Other pioneers who came to this section about the same time were John A. Pigg, Archie Legg, Colonel Squires, and Uncle Isom Pinkston. Mrs. Coates recalls that the only schools were subscription schools. By a first marriage with William S. Gutridge, who died in 1860, Mrs. Coates had two children, James Henry and John William, deceased. By her second marriage there were two children, Mrs. Olive May Davis, living in Canada, and Mrs. Clyde A. Rice. When the Pinkston family came to this section they drove across country with ox teams.

RICE, Samuel
Clinton Township, Henry County
born: Jun 29 1843, Wayne Co, OH
Source:1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg Pg:538
Samuel Rice, farmer, section 4, came originally from Wayne County, Ohio, where he was born June 29, 1834. His father, Simon Rice, was born in Pennsylvania and moved to Ohio in 1815. His mother, whose maiden name was Barbara Yager, was a native of France, and went to Ohio when eight years of age. They were married in Wayne County, and there reared ten children, of whom Samuel was the third child. The death of Simon Rice occurred in November, 1862, and his widow passed away November 3, 1881. Young Rice reached his manhood and was educated in his native county, and followed farming for a livelihood till 1861, when he engaged in the carpenter trade. This he continued for two years, then resuming his farming operations. In February, 1876, he came to Henry County, and settled in the neighborhood of where he now resides. He has a well improved farm of 150 acres of land, and is widely known as being one of our most progressive farmers. Mr. Rice was married December 27, 1871, to Miss Rebecca McClarren, of Pennsylvania. They have two children, Frederick W. and Willard S. They are members of the First Presbyterian Church.

RICHARDSON, Bryce F.
Calhoun, Tebo Township, Henry County
born: Oct 24 1873, Springfield Twp, Henry Co, MO
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:578
Bryce F. Richardson, cashier of the Peoples Bank, Calhoun, Missouri, is a native of Henry County. He was born on a farm in Springfield township, October 24, 1873, the son of Francis B. and Mary E. (Holland) Richardson, who were parents of four children: Luther, manager of the Calhoun, Missouri, Telephone Company; Lucian C., a farmer in Tebo township; Clyde N., a farmer of Deer Creek township; Bryce F., subject of this sketch. Francis B. Richardson was born in Monongahela County, West Virginia, in 1837, and immigrated to Missouri in 1869, locating on a farm in Springfield township, where he followed agricultural pursuits until his retirement to a home in Clinton in 1909. Mrs. Mary E. Richardson was also born in West Virginia in 1840. Bryce F. Richardson is self-made and has accomplished much for a comparatively young man. He was educated in the district school and the Calhoun High School and also studied in Central College, Fayette, Missouri. In 1900 he saw the need of a telephone system for the convenience of the people of Calhoun and vicinity, and accordingly organized and placed in operation the first telephone line ever in operation in this vicinity. This was known as the Tebo Telephone Company and Mr. Richardson conducted the concern until he disposed of it in 1909. He then assisted materially in the organization of the Peoples Bank of Calhoun and became the first and present cashier of this bank, which has met with a gratifying growth during its nine years of operation. The president of this bank is M. D. Finks, the vice-president is W. C. Butler, a substantial merchant of Calhoun. Mr. Richardson was married April 2, 1901, to Miss Emma N. Finks, who was born in Tebo township, the daughter of Milton D. Finks, a retired farmer of Calhoun. Five children have been born of this marriage: William F., Homer C., Hazel L., Bettie F., and Lillian. The Democratic party has the support of Mr. Richardson, although he does not take an exceedingly active part in political affairs. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and is affiliated with the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons.

RICHARDSON, Clyde N.
Deer Creek Township, Henry County
born: Feb 22 1875, Springfield Twp, Henry Co, MO
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:580
Clyde N. Richardson is manager of the Calhoun Elevator and owner of 200 acres of well improved land in Deer Creek township. Mr. Richardson is a native of Henry County, born February 22, 1875, in Springfield township, and is the son of Francis B. and Mary E. (Holland) Richardson. See sketch of Bryce F. Richardson for complete history of this family. Clyde Richardson was educated in the Calhoun schools and "Central College" of Fayette, Missouri, and when a lad in his early teens, he left the parental roof to work for himself. For a number of years he rented the home farm from his father until he purchased 120 acres in 1910 in Deer Creek township. He followed his farming operations exclusively until he was made manager of the Calhoun Elevator Company in March, 1917. May 28, 1904, Clyde Richardson was united in marriage to Eliza Finks, who taught school for a number of years prior to her marriage. She is a native of Tebo township, and a daughter of Milton D. and Bettie (Lewis) Finks. They are retired farmers, making their home in Calhoun. One child, Francis Milton, born February 13, 1905, has come to bless the home of Mr. and Mrs. Richardson and he is attending the schools of Calhoun to fit himself for his future life work. Mr. Richardson's political views are in harmony with the Democratic party, and he has served his community as township assessor for the years 1910 to 1914. He is steward of the Methodist Church, South, and a member of same.

RICKMAN, N. L.
Chalk Level Township, St. Clair County
born: 1850, TN
Source:1883 History of St. Clair County MO, National Historical Co. Pg:1148
N. L. RICKMAN is the son of Joshua Rickman, who was born in the state of Tennessee, August 9, 1801. He came to St. Clair County, Missouri, in 1840, and located in Chalk Level Township, where he was married to Miss Mary B. Terry in 1844. She was born in Tennessee November 4, 1819. Joshua Rickman died April 28, 1879. N. L. was born in St. Clair County, Missouri, January 21, 1850, and has since lived here. He learned the blacksmiths' trade with his father, which he followed till 1878, since which time he has been occupied in farming. The landed estate of the Rickman family consists of 240 acres. Mr. R. is considered to be one of the most respected citizens of Chalk Level and was township clerk one term. He is a member of the Christian Church.

RIDGWAY, John T.
Monegaw Township, St. Clair County
born: 1838, Howard Co, MO
Source:1883 History of St. Clair County MO, National Historical Co. Pg:1138
JOHN T. RIDGWAY, section 17, is a native of Howard County, Missouri, and was born January 11, 1838. his parents being Jesse and Anna (Wiley) Ridgway, Kentuckians by birth. The former came to Missouri in 1819 with his parents who were among the pioneer settlers of Howard County. Jesse Ridgway removed to St. Clair County, in 1840. John F. spent his youth on the farm in this county, and was married October 16, 1866, to Miss Ophelia Catherine Thompson, a daughter of John F. Thompson. She was born in this county and was here reared. She died June 2, 1875, leaving three children: Mattie Ann Lee, Robert F. and Ettie F. Mr. Ridgway was then married August 15, 1875, to Mrs. Ann Mains, widow of James Mains. She had two children by her former marriage: William T. and George H. Mains. There are three children by this latter union: James H. H., John Ed. and Mary Ann. Mr. R. now owns 240 acres of land, of which 150 are in good cultivation. He also owns 160 acres in another tract. In 1862 he enlisted in Company D., General Coffey's Regiment, Missouri State Guards, and served about six months, then re-enlisting in the regular Confederate service, under General Cockerel. He served three months in this regiment and was transferred to Young's Cavalry Battalion and served about one year. He participated in the fights of Prairie Grove, Arkansas, Springfield, Missouri, and others. He received a wound below the knee at Springfield and was disabled about two months. He was taken a prisoner at this time and held thirteen months, then escaping. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity.

RIVERS, John C.
Bethlehem Township, Henry County
born: Jan 14 1833, Taylor Co, KY
Source:1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg Pg:790
John C. Rivers, farmer, section 22, is one of the citizens of this county who is deserving of more than a passing notice. He was born in Green (now Taylor) County, Kentucky, January 14, 1833, His father, James Rivers, was a native of Kentucky and spent his entire life in that state. His mother, formerly Mary I. Short, was born in Green County, Kentucky, March 13, 1802, and is still living there. Their family consisted of fourteen children, John being the second child. He was reared in the occupation of farming, receiving his education from the schools of Green County, and at the age of seventeen he began school teaching, which profession he followed for three years. The first money he received from teaching was spent for his first pair of boots. In the fall of 1856 he came to Henry County, Missouri, arriving here October 14, when he settled on his present farm. In the spring of 1874 he built the residence which he now occupies. He has a fine farm of 240 acres in one body, and also owns 517 acres in the county. Mr. Rivers was united in marriage December 23, 1855, to Miss Ruth E. Wade, a Kentuckian by birth. They had three children: John W., Mary E. and William G. Mrs. R.'s death occurred March 31, 1875. He was again married April 16, 1876, to Mrs. Lorenia Hurt, whose maiden name was Hood. By this marriage there is one child, Campbell T. Mrs. R. has two children by her former husband, Saphronia and James M. In 1874 Mr. Rivers was elected public administrator and served two years, and two years later he was re-elected to the same office, but he did not qualify, as his predecessor's time was for four instead of two. Previous to 1874 he held for some years the office of justice of the peace. In 1876 he was elected township trustee, serving till the township organization was changed, in 1877. In 1881 he was elected justice of the peace of Bethlehem Township, which office he now holds.

ROBERTS, Thomas
Doyal Township, St. Clair County
born: 1841, Rutherford Co, TN
Source:1883 History of St. Clair County MO, National Historical Co. Pg:1194
THOMAS ROBERTS was born in Rutherford County, Tennessee, in 1841, and was the son of Jesse Roberts, originally of South Carolina, born in 1778. About the year 1798 he was married, but his wife subsequently dying, he removed to Tennessee, where In 1833 (or thereabouts) he married for his second wife Miss Rachel McChristian, a Tennesseean by birth. They had seven children, of whom our subject was the fifth child. Four years after the birth of Thomas his father, leaving Rutherford County, emigrated to Kentucky, and four years later, or in 1849, came to Missouri and settled in Benton County, about ten miles above Warsaw on the Osage River. In the spring of 1854 he brought his family to St. Clair County, locating at Tyler's Bend. A few years later he died, leaving the family in straightened circumstances. His widow dying soon afterwards, the care and support of the family fell upon Thomas and his brother Joseph. They were equal to the emergency, however, and being possessed of an indomitable will and energy, succeeded admirably in their undertaking. After encountering many obstacles and privations brought about by the late civil war they now own 250 acres of as valuable rolling land as is in the county, it being located in section 13. On September 6, 1866, Thomas Roberts was married to Miss Martha I. Graham, and they have two sons and three daughters: William, Mary E., Lucy Belle, Marian F. and Emily Lucretia. Joseph Roberts was born February 15, 1842, in Rutherford County Tennessee, and also accompanied his father to this county. The education of these brothers has been obtained entirely through their own efforts and by the light of the fire at night, no one having taught them even the alphabet. They are both identified with the Greenback movement and are numbered among the prominent citizens of this county.

ROBINSON, Abram W.
Appleton Township, St. Clair County
born: 1841, Peoria Co, IL
Source:1883 History of St. Clair County MO, National Historical Co. Pg:1121
ABRAM W. ROBINSON, was born in Peoria County, Illinois, October, 18, 1841. His father, William Robinson, was born in Jefferson County, Virginia, November 27, 1805. He came to Peoria County, Illinois, in 1827, and remained there until his death, which occurred at his home in Medina Township, September 14, 1881. He was married in 1833 to Catharine Wiedman who was born in Champaign County, Ohio. They had a family of six children, four sons and two daughters. The subject of this sketch was the third son and was brought tip on his father's farm, receiving his education at the common schools during the winter. He lost his mother at the age of eight years. With the outburst of the civil strife in 1861, he responded to the nation's call for troops and enlisted in the three months' service, returning at the expiration of that time. For several years after that be was employed by the government in buying cattle and shipping them to the armies in the South, until ill health obliged him to discontinue the business. After the war he spent about a year in St. Louis and in traveling. He then returned to Macoupin County, Illinois, and worked as a farm hand. He then rented a farm for awhile, and in October, 1871, with what he had accumulated, he came to St. Clair County and bought 160 acres in section 15. The 14th day of January, 1872, he commenced its improvement, and by hard labor, toiling in a way utterly detrimental to his health, earned and built up a home. October 22, 1873, he married Miss Cora H. Clark, who was born in DuPage County, Illinois, October 9, 1848. Her father, David H. Clark, was struck dead by lightning March 17, 1850. (Mr. Robinson's mother died the next day, the 18th of March, 1850). He was born in Ohio and was one of the first settlers in Illinois. He married Mary Jarvis, who was born in New York. Her parents were among the first settlers in Illinois and her father built the first frame house in Chicago. She died in St. Clair County, Missouri, May 2, 1872. Mr. Robinson bought in 1875, 160 acres of land in section 23. In 1878 he purchased eighty acres more, and in 1879, five acres in section 1, also owning forty acres in section 16. He was a great worker and a warm friend to the poor and those in need of assistance. He was the father of three children: Frank C., born April 19, 1875; Roy D., born June 25, 1876, and Harry E., born July 13, 1879. The summer of 1881 he bought a steam threshing machine and went with that part of the summer and fall. November, 5 he was injured by slipping from the step of a wagon box and this terminated in pneumonia fever. He died December 1, 1881. He was a member of the A. F. & A. M. fraternity for twelve years and his burial was conducted by them the following Sunday. A large concourse of friends followed him to his last resting place - the Appleton cemetery.

ROBINSON, J. F.
Tebo Township, Henry County
born: Feb 15 1847, Johnson Co, MO
Source:1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg Pg:652
Dr. J. F. Robinson was born February 15, 1847, in Johnson County, Missouri, his parents being Jehu and Julia Ann Robinson, nee Oglesby. The former was born in 1812, in Tennessee, and the latter in 1822 in Kentucky, she having accompanied her parents to Cooper County, Missouri, in an early day. They, were married about the year 1840, and had four sons and three daughters: Mary M., John E., Louisa, Jeremiah T., Sallie B. and James L., and of these our subject was the second son. Jehu Robinson was one of the first judges of Johnson County, and with his wife is now residing at Warrensburg. Joseph F. entered. the Missouri State University at the age of sixteen years, and was a student there for five years, graduating in the class of 1870. In the fall of 1871 Ike entered the medical college at St. Louis, remained until July following, and upon leaving that institution commenced the practice of his profession with Dr. J. W. Wall, an old and skilled physician and surgeon of this county. In two years Dr. R. entered the Jefferson Medical College, at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, graduating with honor therefrom in the class of 1875. Coming again to Henry County, he resumed his practice, and has since had a most successful and uninterrupted patronage with the exception of the winter of 1878-9, which he spent in New York City, attending a course of medical lectures. Dr. Robinson was married November 14, 1878, to Miss Linnie A., daughter of Dr. Jacob and Harriet E. Sipe, of Warrensburg. She is a lady of culture and refinement, and presides over the household affairs in a most worthy manner. The doctor is the owner of the extensive estate of 736 acres located six miles north of Calhoun, known as "Meadow Farm." He has also 210 acres in this county, and 358 acres in Johnson County, He is now occupied in conducting his large farm together with his practice. He belongs to Coldspring Lodge, No. 274, A. F. & A. M. of Henrietta, Johnson County, and is also a member of the Baptist Church at High Point. In politics he is a Democrat.

ROBINSON, John W.
Bogard Township, Henry County
born: 1834, Chambersburg, PA
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:632
John W. Robinson, now deceased, was a prominent pioneer of Henry County and a Union veteran of the Civil War. He was born in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, in 1834, a son of James and Sarah (Johnson) Robinson. When John W. Robinson was a child his parents removed from Pennsylvania to Wayne County, Ohio, where they both lived until 1869 and then moved to Henry County, making a permanent settlement in Bogard township on the present Robinson homestead. When the Civil War broke out John W. Robinson enlisted in the 102nd Ohio Infantry and served until the close of the war. He was mustered out of service and honorably discharged at Columbus, Ohio, by general order of the war department. On July 1, 1868, John W. Robinson was united in marriage with Miss Matilda E. VanKirk, a native of Wayne County, Ohio, and a daughter of Reuben and Agnes VanKirk, natives of Washington County, Pennsylvania, who removed to Ohio and spent the latter part of their lives in Wayne County. Mr. and Mrs. John W. Robinson came to Henry County, Missouri, the same year that they were married and on October 24, 1868, settled on a small place in Bogard township. Their first home was a small cabin fourteen by sixteen feet. This was their home for two years and their eldest daughter, Clara, was born in this pioneer home. Later they built a more modern and commodious residence which is now the Robinson home. The Robinson family endured the many inconveniences incident to pioneer life, and for a number of years after being discharged from the army Mr. Robinson's health was poor. However, they managed to get along very well and made a comfortable home in the new country. Mrs. Robinson now has eighty-seven acres of land and a very comfortable borne. John W. Robinson died in 1904. To John W. Robinson and wife were born three children: Mrs. Clara Single, Bogard township; Nellie, a prominent Henry County teacher, who makes her home with her mother, and Vernon V., who married Eunice Gourley of Webster County, Missouri, and operates the home place. Mrs. Robinson has eight grandchildren: Lowell, Curtis, Harley, Robert, Paul, Mary Matilda, all single, and John Gourley and Frances Matilda Robinson. Mrs. Robinson has seen much of the development of Henry County from the uninhabited plains to the present well cultivated fields and busy towns. She and her late husband, John W. Robinson, are entitled to enrollment among the honored pioneers of Henry County, who did their duty nobly and well.

ROBINSON, William T.
Chalk Level Township, St. Clair County
born: 1839, Lawrence Co, IL
Source:1883 History of St. Clair County MO, National Historical Co. Pg:1148
WILLIAM T. ROBINSON, postmaster and merchant at Chalk Level, was born in Lawrence County, Illinois, October 1, 1839. His parents were Alexander and Mary A. (Gibbon) Robinson, both natives of Kentucky. W. T. was reared in the county of his birth, and in 1855 came to St. Clair County, Missouri, where he followed farming till 1881. Then he began his present business, in which he has met with good success. He was married January 3, 1868, to Miss Elsie J. Landon. They have one child, Edmond Landon, and have lost two: Ida and Eddie. Mr. and Mrs. R. are active members of the Christian Church.

ROBISON, S. W.
Honey Creek Township, Henry County
born: May 11 1849, Windsor Twp, Henry Co, MO
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:633
S. W. Robison, the veteran agent of the Frisco Railway Company at Harvey Station, is a Henry County pioneer. Mr. Robinson was born in Windsor township, Shelby County, Illinois, in 1849. His parents were David and Elizabeth Ann (Warren) Robison, the former a native of North Carolina and the latter of Tennessee. The father died in 1872 and the mother departed this life in 1889. They were the parents of four children: Peter, Lakewood, Illinois; David, Butler, Missouri; John, Johnstown, Missouri; and S. W., the subject of this sketch. S. W. Robison was reared and educated in his native state. In 1882 he came to Missouri, and located in Honey Creek township, Henry County, where he was engaged in farming and stock raising for four years. Before coming to Missouri, Mr. Robison taught school in Illinois for a number of years, and also was engaged in teaching after coming to this county and was a very successful educator. On April 7, 1900, he was appointed agent for the Frisco railroad, and since that time has held that position. During the course of his career, in dealing with the public as a representative of the railroad company, Mr. Robison has acquired an extensive acquaintance and by his courteous manner and accommodating methods in dealing with the public, has made many friends. He not only has won the good will and esteem of the public, but the confidence of his employers in the carrying out of the trust and responsibilities imposed in him. Mr. Robison was united in marriage in 1882 with Miss Anna Miller of Honey Creek, a daughter of John and Rebecca Miller, and to this union have been born five children: George M., an electrician; D. B., employed by the Western Electric Company, Chicago, Illinois; Edgar S., State agent for the Westinghouse Electric Company, located at Dallas, Texas; Mary, resides at home with her parents, and Margaret, Clinton, Missouri. Mr. Robison has seen much development in the county since he settled here thirty-six years ago. He has seen the town of Garland grow up from the beginning. He is now in his sixty-ninth year and as active in the affairs of every-day life as the average man many years his junior. He is a representative citizen of Honey Creek township and one of the substantial men of his community.

ROCK, Edward F.
Montrose, Deepwater Township, Henry County
born: May 1 1880, Franklin Co, MO
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:436
Edward F. Rock, buyer and salesman of the grocery department of the Kahn Commercial Company of Montrose, Missouri, was born in Franklin County, Missouri, May 1, 1880. He is the son of Fred and Rosina (Bauer) Rock, natives of Switzerland. Both parents of Edward F. Rock came from their native land to America when young with their respective parents. They were reared to maturity in Illinois and were married at Herman, Missouri. He removed to a farm in Montgomery County, Missouri, in 1887, where he died in 1915 at the age of sixty-seven years. Mrs. Rosina Rock was born in 1845 and still resides upon the farm in Montgomery County. They were parents of eleven children, six of whom are living: Edward F., Victor, Walter and Rosina, at Big Springs, Montgomery County, Missouri; Herbert, McKittrick, Missouri; Henry Rock, a farmer in Davis township, Henry County. Edward F. Rock was educated in the public schools and the college at Warrenton, Missouri. After completing a business course at Warrenton, he was employed in a store at McKittrick, Missouri, until his removal to Montrose, in 1908. He became a member of the firm upon its organization in 1909 and is now of the grocery department of this large establishment. February 3, 1911, Edward F. Rock and Miss Nell Faulk of Montrose, Missouri, were united in marriage. This marriage has been blessed with a son, Edward F., Jr., aged three years. Mrs. Nell Rock is a daughter of Samuel Faulk. Mr. Rock is a Democrat and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is a good, thorough business man who has made good in his chosen vocation and his place among the leading citizens of Montrose is established as one of the leaders of the community.

ROCK, George F.
Davis Township, Henry County
born: Jul 19 1851, Quincy, IL
Source:1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg Pg:741
George F. Rock, dealer in general merchandise at LaDue, was born in Quincy, Illinois, July 19, 1851. His father, George Rock was an Italian by birth, and coming to America when a young man, married and had a family of seven children, of whom none are living but George, who was the youngest. His mother dying when he was four weeks old, he was taken by a family living in Belleville, where he was kept one year. Then he was adopted by a man named Adam Gaupp, with whom he lived until twenty-three years of age. In 1865 they came to Henry County and lived three miles south of Clinton. Since the age of twenty-three, Mr. Rock has been at work steadily. He worked for $15 per month as farm hand for several months, and in 1876 went to Illinois, where he was running with a steam thresher one fall, and for several seasons he has been hunting during the winter time. In the summer time he has worked on a farm and hunted and shipped small game in winter. He also learned the carpenter's trade and worked for Woodruff & Fuqua, contractors until December, 1881. He then entered the dry goods store of Dennis Kehoe, and when his business was closed, he carried on the business of T. P. Bolis for three months. In May, 1882, Mr. Rock began his present business at LaDue, where he carries a stock of $1,200, and is enjoying a good trade. On June 14, 1882, he was married to Miss Julia P. Ramsey, daughter of Elijah Ramsey, of Clinton. She was born at Warsaw, Missouri. December 11, 1861. She is a member of the Baptist Church. In politics, Mr. Rock is a Democrat. He has the push and energy that characterizes a live go-ahead business man, and ere long will doubtless receive the patronage that he deserves.

ROGERS, J. A.
Clinton Township, Henry County
born: Mar 29 1818, Winchester, KY
Source:1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg Pg:538
J. A. Rogers, M.D., was born in Winchester, Kentucky, March 29, 1818, being the son of Dr. Henry Rogers, a prominent physician, also a native of Kentucky. The maiden name of his mother was Betsy Reed, born in the same state. J. A. was reared in Kentucky until sixteen years of age, then removing with his Parents to Indiana. Having decided on the profession of his father as his occupation during life, he at once commenced preparing himself for the practice of medicine under the care of his father. He attended lectures at the Lexington Medical College and began the active duties of his profession at Parkersburg, Indiana, and there married Miss Catherine A. Gorman April 3, 1839; she is a sister of General Willis Gorman. Dr. R. lived here until 1842, when he came to Missouri and settled in Henry County southeast of Clinton in what was then known as the Parks neighborhood. After a short time he located in Clinton and continued to practice medicine until his death, which occurred April 22, 1861. He left six children: Betty, who married George Royston, since deceased; Willis G.; Irene, now Mrs. B. G. Boone; Dora, now Mrs. P. F. Thornton, of Nevada; John A., Jr., and Alice, now Mrs. Burton, of Nevada.

ROGERS, James R.
Brownington, Osage Township, Henry County
born: Sep 12 1884, White Oak Twp, Henry Co, MO
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:750
Dr. James R. Rogers, a prominent Henry County physician, engaged in the practice of his profession at Brownington, is a native son of Henry County, and a descendant of pioneer parents of this section. Doctor Rogers was born in White Oak township, Henry County, September 12, 1885, and is a son of A. W. and Dona C. (Claggett) Rogers, of Lucas, Missouri. The father came to White Oak township, Henry County, in 1877, and opened a drug store there the same year, which he still conducts. He was one of the pioneer business men of that section and for forty-two consecutive years has been engaged in business there. He was born in Warren County, Missouri, May 19, 1844. His wife, the mother of Doctor Rogers, departed this life July 2, 1914, and her remains are buried in Mullin Cemetery, White Oak township. They were the parents of the following children: Eugene, died in infancy; T. J., a druggist in Brownington, Missouri; William E. died in infancy; Fannie, married C. C. Helms, Kansas City, Missouri; Marvin, Lucas, Missouri; Walter C. Kimball, Texas; Dr. James R., the subject of this sketch, and A. M., Manhattan, Kansas. Dr. Rogers was reared in Henry County and received his elementary education in the public schools and later entered the University Medical College of Kansas City, Missouri, where he was graduated with a degree of Doctor of Medicine in the class of 1909. The same year he came to Brownington, Missouri, and engaged in the practice of his profession. Doctor Rogers has met with success in his chosen profession from the beginning of his professional career. He is a student of the great progressive strides which have been made in the field of medicine and surgery and what success has come to him has not been of the chance or accidental variety. A town of the size of Brownington should congratulate itself upon having a physician of the capability of Doctor Rogers. Doctor Rogers was united in marriage July 6, 1911 with Miss Dorthy V. Tullis, a daughter of M. C. and Mary (Munson) Tullis of Brownington, Missouri. Doctor Rogers is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge No.516, Brownington, Missouri. He is a progressive and public spirited citizen as well as a leading member of his profession.

ROGERS, Thomas J.
Brownington, Osage Township, Henry County
born: Oct 17 1871, Marion Co, MO
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:753
Thomas J. Rogers, a progressive druggist engaged in business at Brownington, Missouri, is a native of Missouri. He was born in Marion County, October 17, 1871, and is a son of A. W., and Dona C. Rogers. His father was engaged in the drug business for many years at Lucas and Thomas J. Rogers was practically reared in a drug store. He was educated in the public schools and entered the drug business at Brownington, Missouri, with W. H. Delavergne in 1902 and continued in that connection until the death of Mr. Delavergne in October, 1915, when Mr. Rogers bought the interest of the Delavergne store, and since that time has conducted the business alone. The Rogers drug store is up to date in every particular and Mr. Rogers not only carries a complete line of drugs but in his stock is well represented druggist sundries and the numerous articles usually found in a modern drug store. Thomas J. Rogers was united in marriage in 1898 with Miss Bessie Peelor of Brownington, Missouri, a daughter of James L. and Martha Peelor. The father is now deceased and after his death the mother married Jason W. Newell, and now reside at Eldorado Springs, Missouri. Mr. and Mrs. Rogers have an adopted daughter, Lillian Martha. Mr. Rogers is recognized as one of the leading business men of Henry County. He owns his store building and is one of the valued citizens of Brownington. He takes an interest in local affairs and is one of the boosters of Brownington's enterprise. He is a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of Clinton, Missouri, and the Modern Woodmen of America of Brownington.

ROSS, Edgar A.
Fairview Township, Henry County
born: Nov 11 1862, WI
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:873
Edgar A. Ross - One of the neatest and best-kept farmsteads in Fairview township is that of Edgar A. Ross, which consists of 120 acres, just enough to keep one energetic farmer busily employed the year round. This farm is well improved with a good residence, and a silo to supplement the feeding of live stock in winter. Edgar A. Ross was born November 11, 1862, in Wisconsin, the son of George H. and Carolina (Wilson) Ross, the former of whom was a native of Vermont and the latter a native of Michigan. George H. Ross was the son of Arad and Hannah (Batchelor) Ross, both of whom were natives of Vermont and descended from old New England families. Mrs. Caroline (Wilson) Ross was the daughter of Solomon and Harriet (Robinson) Wilson, who lived to great ages. It is an actuality that Edgar A. Ross recalls seeing both of his grandfathers and grandmothers and his great-grandfather and his great-grandmother in one room of his father's home in Wisconsin. Few men are given to see so many generations of one family, and that family his own people. Edgar A. Ross is the oldest of nine children born to his parents as follow: Edgar A.; Albert, and Frank, deceased; David lives in Iowa; Jesse lives in Iowa; Mrs. Annie Lanning resides in Canada; Clare lives in Washington; Ernest lives in North Dakota; Mrs. Grace Brooks lives in Iowa. George H. Ross left Wisconsin in 1867 and settled in Hardin County, Iowa, where he became well to do. During the Civil War he served as volunteer in the 48th Wisconsin Infantry, for one year. He is now living comfortably in Hardin County, Iowa, after a successful career. Mrs. Caroline Ross was born in 1838 and departed this life in 1895. Longevity is one of the characteristics of the members of the Ross family, the grandfather of Edgar A. Ross having lived to attain the great age of 97 years. Edgar A. Ross was reared and educated in Wisconsin and Hardin County, Iowa. His parents were in poor circumstances and his life has been made up largely of hard work and grinding toil until of late years. When the family located in Iowa, George H. Ross had but three horses and $50 in money. He earned money enough to provide sustenance for his family by quarrying rock at 75 cents per cord and for a long time the family subsisted on corn which cost them $1.25 per bushel. In time, Mr. Ross prospered as Hardin County was developed and he became owner of 320 acres of rich Hardin County corn land valued at $250 an acre. Being the oldest of the family, Edgar A. Ross bore a great part of the burden of supporting the family during the lean years when times were hard. All of the other children of the family received a good education. When Edgar A. Ross had attained the age of twenty-one years (1883) he went to Wisconsin, there married and resided in that State until 1890. He was engaged in railroad work and held the position of section foreman and had charge of a gravel train. In 1890 he returned to Iowa and purchased a farm. On account of poor health engendered by the severe winter weather of his home county in Iowa, he sold out his Iowa farm in 1903 and came to Missouri and purchased his farm in Fairview township. Mr. Ross has never regretted the change and states that Henry County is a far healthier section in which to live and a much easier place in which to make a living and accumulate a sufficiency of this world's goods than in Iowa, where land is much higher in price and consequently harder to obtain. He is well content with his location and would not swap farms with one of his relatives in Iowa if compelled to reside there. Mr. Ross was married in 1888 to Miss Phoebe Ann Smith, who was born in Vermont, the daughter of Aaron and Amarillas (Reck) Smith. No children have been born of this marriage, but Mr. and Mrs. Ross have reared five adopted children, all of whom were orphans whom they took when young and raised to upright manhood and womanhood, namely: Grace, wife of John Robbins, Fairview township; Benjamin, operating a creamery at Lincoln, Nebraska; Miss Myrtle Speck, now in Oklahoma; and Mytle, at home. Mr. Ross is a Republican. He is affiliated with the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons and is one of the leading and substantial citizens of the Deepwater neighborhood, who is intelligent, well read and popular with all who know him.

ROSS, Joseph Adam
Big Creek Township, Henry County
born: Apr 28 1875, Big Creek Twp, Henry Co, MO
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:711
Joe A. Ross, a progressive farmer and leading citizen of Big Creek township, is a native son of Henry County. He was born in the township where he now resides April 28, 1875, and is a son of William H. and Eliza Jane (Norris) Ross. William H. Ross was born in Illinois in 1843, a son of Samuel and Margaret (Gray) Ross. Samuel Ross came to Henry County, Missouri, with his family and settled in Shawnee township in 1844, when William H. was about one year old. They spent the remainder of their lives in this county. They were the parents of eleven children, of whom William H. is the only one living. The others were: Freeman, Alfred, Lee, James C., Alvin, Robert, Catharine, Almeda, Sarah and Sophronia. To William H. and Eliza Jane (Norris) Ross were born the following children: Mrs. Julia Ann Rochester, Big Creek township; Joseph Adam, the subject of this sketch, and Ida Belle. The mother died in July, 1904, and the father now resides on his farm in Big Creek township. Joe A. Ross was educated in the public schools of Henry County and the Iowa Business College at Des Moines, Iowa. He then engaged in farming and for ten years followed that vocation, when he entered the employ of the Frisco Railroad Company as station agent and telegraph operator. In 1915 he returned to the home farm in Big Creek township and since that time has been engaged in general farming and stock raising. Mr. Ross was married January 14, 1904, to Miss Anna Davis, a daughter of Benjamin and Mollie Davis of Saline County, Missouri. Mrs. Ross's father died in 1913 and her mother now lives near Miami, Missouri. Mrs. Ross has one brother, John Davis, who resides in Saline County, and a sister, Cora, who resides at home. Mr. Ross is a Democrat and is a member of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons Lodge No.343, Agricola, Missouri, and is the present master of that lodge.

ROUNTREE, Lafayette M.
Davis Township, Henry County
born: Apr 18 1840, Greene Co, MO
Source:1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg Pg:741
Lafayette M. Rountree was born in Greene County, Missouri, April 18, 1840, his parents being J. M. and Martha J. (Miller) Rountree, the former originally from North Carolina and the latter from Tennessee. They were married in Missouri in 1830. He is still living in Greene County but she died in 1872. Of twelve children Lafayette is the fifth and the eldest now alive. He stayed on his father's farm until of age, and soon after entered the county service of the Missouri State Militia. He was in the battles of Springfield, Wilson Creek, etc., being for some time in the sanguinary guerrilla warfare of Western Missouri. He entered the service as a private but soon rose to first duty sergeant and afterward to captain. He returned to Greene County and remained there until 1872, engaged in a store for two years, and was for some time deputy county clerk under his father, who was clerk. In 1872 he came to Henry County, and March 23, of the following year he married Mrs. Diana Armstrong, widow of William J. Armstrong, who died in 1869. Her maiden name was Diana Blevins and she is the sister of R. P. Blevins. She had four children left her at Mr. Armstrong's death: Luellen, Thomas J., Matilda A. and Robert J. Luellen married T. M. Long and died at the age of twenty-two. Only one child survives to grace the home of Mr. Rountree and wife, James Lestie. They have lost two: Oscar, a boy of two years, and an infant. In 1877 Mr. Rountree came to his present farm which contains 120 acres. He is handling some cattle, having at present about eighty head, and 100 hogs. Mrs. Rountree is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Mr. R. has been a Mason for several years.

ROYSTON, E. C.
Shawnee Township, Henry County
born: Mar 4 1830, Caroline Co, VA
Source:1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg Pg:672
E. C. Royston, physician and surgeon, Huntingdale, was born in Caroline County, Virginia, March 4, 1830, being a son of Thomas and Susanna (Thornton) Royston, natives of Virginia. The subject of this sketch was the seventh of a family of twelve children. In November, 1839, his parents removed to Marion County, Missouri, where his mother died in 1841. The same year his father came to Henry County, Missouri. E. C. received his education in the common schools of Missouri, and when nineteen years old he began the study of medicine with Dr. R. T. Thornton, of Jackson County, Missouri. He read with him until 1850; then visited California and followed mining until 1852, when he returned to Missouri. He clerked in a store in Clinton until March, 1853, and at that time again took up the study of medicine in the office of Dr. Salmon. He continued this until 1854, when he entered the St. Louis Medical College. In March, 1855, he located southwest of Clinton and practiced until November of the same year, when he settled near Huntingdale. In 1868 he moved into that place. In October, 1872, he returned to the St. Louis Medical College, and was graduated in March, 1873. The doctor has a very fine frame residence here, built in 1878 at a cost of $2,000. He was assistant surgeon in the Missouri State Guard for six months during the war and surgeon in the First Regiment of Missouri Rovers for twelve months. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. July 24, 1854, Dr. Royston was married to Mrs. Eliza J. Drake, a daughter of F. A. and Sallie (McCarty) Pernell. She was born in Virginia November 15, 1827, and came to Henry County, Missouri, with her parents in 1834. There she married Jesse Drake August 16, 1845. His death occurred October 23, 1850. They had two children, Harriet and Charles W. The doctor and his wife have four children: Ida Belle, Eddie A., William P. and Sallie. William Royston is a graduate of the St. Louis Medical College.

ROYSTON, John H.
Clinton Township, Henry County
born: May 12 1827, Caroline Co, VA
Source:1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg Pg:539
John H. Royston is the present popular county assessor, and no one among the old settlers and prominent citizens of this county is more worthy of mention in its history than he. A native of Caroline County, Virginia, he was born May 12, 1827, his parents, Thomas and Susanna (Thornton) Royston, also being Virginians by birth. They were there reared and married, and in September, 1839, removed to Monroe County, Missouri, where John was engaged with his father in farming till April, 1841. They then came to Henry County, subsequently locating on a farm. Mr. Royston's death occurred in this county in 1851, his wife died in Monroe County in June, 1841. The subject of this sketch continued to till the soil here till 1847, when he went to Lexington, Missouri. Here for two years he worked at the carpenter's trade. In the spring of 1849 he took a trip to California, and was occupied in mining and prospecting till May, 1852. Arriving here again July, 1852, he resumed farming, which he continued (with the exception of short periods when occupied at carpentering), till elected to the office of county assessor. In 1882 he was re-elected to fill that office for the present term. Mr. R.'s family still reside on a farm which he owns in Deer Creek Township. He was married September 5 1855, to Miss Rachael E. Harris, of Missouri. They have seven children living: Mollie S., George H., J. Anna, Grace D., Thomas W., John H., and Mora L. Mr. and Mr. Royston are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

ROYSTON, John Henry
Deer Creek Township, Henry County
born: May 12 1827, Caroline Co, VA
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:591
John H. Royston - "Uncle John Henry" Royston, as he was lovingly called by his friends, was one of the upright and conscientious men who make for the betterment of mankind. He was a devout member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church and always active in religious work. His friends and relatives who honor his memory say that he was never known to use profanity. Such a man was the late John H. Royston, who was born May 12, 1827, and departed this life February 2, 1898. John Royston left his birthplace, Caroline County, Virginia, with his parents, Thomas W. and Susannah Royston, when a very young child. They first located in Monroe County, Missouri, and remained there until 1841, when they came to Henry County, Missouri, locating on the Grand River in the southeastern part of the county. They were God-fearing people who put their whole trust in His care, knowing that He cared for them among the wild and uninhabited lands of Missouri, as well as the more thickly settled part of their native State. They impressed their lives upon their son, who followed so faithfully his early training. John Royston was one of those "forty-niners" who left their homes and families and crossed the plains to California. He left Clinton April 16, 1849, and arrived in California August 8, 1849. Many never returned, but Mr. Royston came back to his old home and was married to Rachel Harris September 5, 1855. She was born June 29, 1836, in Charitan County, Missouri, and was reared by Major Daniel Ashby of Mexican and Indian War fame. Major Ashby was one of the early men in the county and won for himself, through his bravery and uprightness, a name honored by Henry County people. Mr. and Mrs. Royston set up their home on the present farm in Deer Creek township and reared their sons and daughters, as follow: Mollie, at home; George, manager of the old home place, was born December 28, 1857, in Deer Creek township, educated in the district school and has devoted his best energies to the farming business, knowing Nature in all of her moods and how best to woo the crops from her unwilling hand. He owns 160 acres of land in partnership with his brother, John E., the farm being known as the Royston Brothers farm. The other children are Grace D., deceased; Samuel and Susan, deceased; Anna, at home; Thomas W., in Oklahoma; John E. and Mora at home. Mrs. Royston, at the advanced age of eighty-two years, is still active in her home and a blessing to her children. Politically Mr. Royston was a staunch Democrat and served as county assessor two terms in the eighties. In every capacity that Mr. Royston served, he lent the color of his upright life, doing things in such a manner that while they were unobtrusive, still they lingered in the hearts of his friends and acquaintances.

RUNNER, Warren T.
Clinton, Henry County
born: Nov 20 1866, Peru, IL
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:297
W. T. Runner, the well known and popular sheriff of Henry County, is a native of Illinois. He was born in Peru, Illinois, November 20, 1865, and is a son of William and Helen (Epperson) Runner, the former a native of that part of Virginia which is now West Virginia and the latter of Missouri. The Runner family were early settlers in western Missouri. Michael Runner, grandfather of Sheriff Runner, settled in Post Oak township, Johnson County, on Mineral Creek several years prior to the Civil War. He was a Virginian and came to this State with his family and followed farming in Johnson County until his death. He was a victim of bushwhackers during the days of the border war. He was an old man at the time when the Civil War broke out, and on account of his advanced age, he believed that he would be unharmed and remained on his place, but subsequent events proved that he was mistaken, for his blood-thirsty assassins were no respectors of gray hairs. They murdered him the next day after they had murdered his son, Isaac, who was a cripple, having lost a leg in an accident some years previous. The father and son were killed while they with the assistance of their women folks were preparing for the burial of an uncle of Sheriff Runner, a brother of his father, whom the bushwhackers had previously killed. After murdering the three members of the family, the marauders robbed the house of everything of value and took the horses with them. Sheriff Runner's grandmother spent her life on the old home place in Johnson County, which is still owned by her descendants. William Runner, father of Sheriff Runner, went to Illinois, where he remained during the Civil War and at its close returned to Johnson County, where he was successfully engaged in farming and stock raising during the remainder of his life. He died January 26, 1892. His wife departed this life November 15, 1903. She was born in Pettis County, and her parents were early settlers in that section of Missouri. They were Kentuckians. Sheriff Runner is one of a family of six children born to his parents as follows: James, Joplin, Missouri; W. T., the subject of this sketch; Walter, Memphis, Tennessee; Joseph, died at the age of twenty-one years; Leota, now the wife of Thomas Garnett, a railroad contractor residing at Lake Charles, Louisiana, and Maud, the wife of J. B. Thompson, Lake Charles, Louisiana. W. T. Runner was reared to manhood in Johnson County, Missouri, and received his education in the public schools. He followed farming there until 1889, when he came to Henry County and bought a farm in Shawnee township. Here he was engaged in farming and stock raising until 1916, when he was elected sheriff of Henry County, and since that time has resided in Clinton and devoted himself to the duties of that office. He is a capable and conscientious public official and has a broad acquaintance in Henry County and friends without number. He has a valuable farm of 160 acres in Shawnee township which he has rented since he assumed the duties of the office of sheriff. Sheriff Runner is a Democrat and has been identified with that party since boyhood. In 1887 W. T. Runner was united in marriage with Miss Blanche Cameron, a native of Henry County, and a daughter of James Cameron, a Henry County pioneer, now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Runner have been born three children: Rolla, now a member of the One Hundred Twenty-ninth Field Artillery, National Army, in service on the western front in France; Glenn, and Earl, who reside at home. Mrs. Blanche Runner, mother of the foregoing children, died in 1907. Mr. Runner married Mrs. Carrie Cochrane, a widow, in 1909. Mrs. Carrie Runner has one daughter by a former marriage, Jessie, at home. Sheriff Runner is a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Baptist Church.

RUSH, John A.
Blairstown, Bogard Township, Henry County
born: Jan 12 1842, Greene Co, OH
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:608
John A. Rush, late of Blairstown, Missouri, was a Union veteran of the Civil War and one of the interesting pioneer settlers of Henry County. He was born in Greene County, Ohio, January 12, 1842, the only child of Alvah and Mary A. (Roberts) Rush, the former a native of Kentucky and the latter of Maryland. The father died in Big Creek township in 1874, the mother having passed away in Ohio in 1863. John A. Rush was reared and educated in Ohio and spent his early life in the uneventful way of the average boy of his time. In 1863 he enlisted at London, Ohio, in the 154th Ohio National Guard and served about one year, being mustered out of service September 27, 1864, at Camp Denison. In 1866 he came to Missouri and first settled at Independence, where he remained two years. In 1868 he came to Henry County and settled on the present site of Blairstown in Bogard township. Here he built a log cabin in February, 1869. He lived in a tent for a time until his cabin was completed. Mr. Rush recalled that his log cabin was located about fifty feet southwest of where Shepperd's garage now stands. This log house was his home until 1875, when he built a frame house which was destroyed by fire, and he built his present residence in 1886. Mr. Rush remembered among the pioneer residents who helped him raise his first log cabin the names of Conrad Fisher, Jesse Fisher, Henry Lotspeich, Boone McCarty, Conrad McCarty, K. Elliott, John Cox, Wilson Redford, Elias Gilkner, James Jenkins, Thomas Jenkins, Ira Dunham and his brother and Daniel Quick. They are all dead now except Elias Gilkner. Mr. Rush had been successfully engaged in farming and stock raising and was the owner of one of the valuable farms of Henry County. It consists of four hundred eighty-one acres of well improved and productive land. Mr. Rush was one of the first to sow blue grass in Bogard township. He departed this life June 3, 1918. Mr. Rush was united in marriage in 1874 to Miss Mary A. Wall, a daughter of Dr. Z. R. Wall, a Johnson County pioneer and a native of South Carolina, who was one of the very early settlers in the southern part of Johnson County, now deceased. Mrs. Rush has one brother now living, Robert Wall, who resides at Denton, Missouri. She has three sisters, Mrs. Fannie Hughes, Mrs. Margaret Simpson and Mrs. Cornelia Hubbard, all residing at Denton, Missouri. To John A. Rush and wife have been born the following children: Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Wright, Kansas City; Mrs. Maudie Alice Urton, Kansas City, Missouri; John W., Blairstown, Missouri; Mrs. Lillie Eva Gilliam, Johnson County, Missouri; Mrs. Glennie Anderson, Johnson County, Missouri; Mrs. Maggie Hunt, Blairstown, Missouri, and Cliffie, who resides at home. Mr. Rush always took an active part in local public affairs and was deeply interested in any movement for the improvement and up-building of the community. He was the original promoter of Drainage District No.2 and was president of that company. This drainage system is thirteen miles long, running from the Judge Guyer farm in Johnson County southeast through Bogard township in Henry County to the W. S. Ward farm in Big Creek township. This drainage movement met with strong opposition at first but Mr. Rush with the assistance of some others who had the foresight to see the benefits to be derived from such a project, succeeded in overcoming the reactionary element. It is now universally conceded that the project was the proper thing. Mr. Rush saw practically all of the development of Henry County and played an important part in the progress in this, the banner county of Missouri. He was a man who always lived a clean and upright life and cultivated simple habits. He lived to be seventy-six years of age and physically and mentally was equal to the average man a score of years his junior. He was one of the substantial and highly respected citizens of Henry County. Mr. Rush was a member of the Christian Church for over thirty years and was affiliated with the Grand Army Post of Blairstown.

RUSK, William H.
Fairview Township, Henry County
born: Jan 10 1834, McConnellsville, OH
Source:1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg Pg:376
William Rusk. The oldest settler in the southwestern part of Fairview township is William Rusk, who for over fifty years has resided upon his quarter section farm. He was the first settler in his neighborhood who located upon the prairie. William Rusk was born at McConnellsville, Ohio, January 10, 1834, on the Muskingum River. He is the son of Humphrey and Margaret (McDonald) Rusk, the former a native of Ohio and the latter of Pennsylvania. Until he was twenty-two years of age, William Rusk resided in his native county. In the fall of 1855 he went to Illinois, and after a residence of ten years in De Witt County, that State, he went to Iowa. Two years later, in November of 1868, he located on a tract of prairie land in Fairview township. He improved this farm and has mined coal on the place since 1884. The entire tract is underlaid with coal. Mr. Rusk sold eighty acres of the farm to his son, who has erected improvements thereon, and is farming the entire tract. April 13, 1878, William Rusk and Mrs. Mary S. Sweazy were united in marriage. Mrs. Rusk was the widow of James Sweazy. Two sons were born of this marriage: Ira T., living in Kansas City, Missouri; James M., Harris, Kansas. Mrs. Mary S. (Harnett) Rusk was born in Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, on September 9, 1846, and is the daughter of Samuel and Sarah Walker (Corey) Harnett, natives of Pennsylvania. The mother of Samuel Harnett was Barbara Lutzenheizer prior to her marriage. The great-great-grandfather of Mrs. Rusk was James Harnett, who served in the American Revolution and whose wife was a girlhood friend of Martha Washington, nee Custis, and it is a matter of family tradition that one time when the women were doing a washing down by the sea coast they covered their heads with a large kettle and a clothes basket and ran from hostile Indians on the banks of the Potomac. The Harnett historical kettle is still preserved as an interesting relic by members of the Harnett family. Samuel Harnett, father of Mrs. Rusk, located in Ohio in 1855, and in 1866 removed to Illinois, where a brother of Mrs. Rusk, named Joseph M. Harnett, became very prominent in Champaign County, was a soldier of the Union and served as special pension examiner for the United States Government, with offices in Washington. He was high in Masonic circles. Mary S. Harnett was first married in Illinois to James Sweazy, who died. Later William Rusk came on from his new home in Missouri and wooed and won her for a wife. The town of Enon Valley was built upon the farm owned by Samuel Harnett in Lawrence County, Pennsylvania, and upon his farm is located the famous spring which furnished water for the Pittsburg and Fort Wayne railroad for many years. The first train which Mrs. Rusk saw passed over this road and it was the first train to go over the road. The Harnett children were all well educated. Mrs. Elizabeth Frederick, Mrs. Rusk's oldest sister, who lived in Henry County, was a classmate of Mrs. James A. Garfield, nee Rudolph, at Hiram College, Ohio. John and Ezra, her two oldest brothers, were classmates of James A. Garfield and completed their classical education at Bethany College, West Virginia. They taught in the South for a number of years. The children of William and Mary S. Rusk are as follow: William Harnett Garfield Rusk, born March 4, 1881, married Daisy Barker, and has three children, Gladys Dimple, aged fourteen, William Wilson, twelve years old, and Ethel Gertrude, aged ten years; Sarah Corey, born October 7, 1885, married Robert Arthur Fans and lives at Cimmarron, New Mexico, mother of four children, William Theodore, eight years old, Barbara Evelyn, aged seven, Harry Arthur, four years of age, Robert Leonard, an infant of four months. Robert Arthur Fans volunteered for service in the National Army for overseas service, enlisting in the 115th Regiment Regular United States Army, the Engineering Corps, and is located at Camp Kearney, California. William Rusk's first marriage was with Rebecca A. Farhner in Illinois and took place in 1862. The first Mrs. Rusk died in 1876, leaving five children: Jacob Humphrey, accidentally killed at the age of fourteen years; Horatio Seymour, Norwood, Colorado; Margaret Elizabeth, wife of Alfred Dunham, Colorado; James McDonald, California; Otha Perley, Norwood, Colorado. Since 1880 William Rusk has been allied heart and soul with the Prohibition party and has devoted many years of his life to the cause of prohibition. For years he stood alone as the only Prohibitionist in his township but has lived to see actual prohibition in Henry County became an accomplished fact. If he is spared for a few more months or years longer he will see his heartfelt wish realized-national prohibition. He was one of the charter members of the Westfield Presbyterian Church at its organization in 1870 and has been a ruling elder of this church for nearly fifty years, a record of which any citizen can well be proud. Mr. and Mrs. Rusk are kindly, intelligent and hospitable people who are highly regarded in Henry County.

RUSK, William H.
Fairview Township, Henry County
born: Jan 10 1834, Morgan Co, OH
Source:1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg Pg:762
William Rusk was born in Morgan County, Ohio, January 10, 1834. Humphrey Rusk, his father was a native of Belmont County, Ohio, while his mother whose maiden name was Margaret McDonald, was born in Washington County, Pennsylvania. William spent his early youth on a farm, and upon moving to Illinois with his parents in 1855, located in DeWitt County, where he grew up. He was married there, September 19, 1862, to Miss Rebecca Ann Farhner, of Pennsylvania, and a daughter of Jacob Farhner. Mr. Rusk, after his marriage farmed in DeWitt County for four years and in the fall of 1866, he went to Iowa, and settling in Linn County. After two years he came to Henry County, Missouri, in the fall of 1868, and bought land and improved the farm which he now occupies. He has 160 acres in a fair state of cultivation, and upon it is a good apple and peach orchard. He is devoting considerable attention to the cultivation of broom corn, and had raised the past year fifty acres of this product which averaged 500 pounds of brush to the acre. Mrs. Rusk died November 1, 1872, leaving five children. The oldest, Jacob H. met with a runaway accident which caused his death at the age of twelve years. He died May 15, 1873. Horatio S., Lizzie M., James M., and Otha P. Mr. Rusk was afterwards married in Champaign County, Illinois, April 13, 1878, to Mrs. Mary S. Swayze, a daughter of Samuel Harnit. She is a native of Beaver County, Pennsylvania, and was reared and educated there and in Ohio. She is a lady of culture, and was a teacher for two years previous to her marriage with James Swayze, Mr. Swayze was originally of Ohio, but resided in Illinois at the time of his death, which occurred August 18, 1871. They had two children: Ira T. and James M. Swayze. Mr. and Mrs. Rusk have one son by their marriage, Willie H. C. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. R. is an Odd Fellow.

RUSSELL, Buckner
Speedwell Township, St. Clair County
born: 1837, Moniteau Co, MO
Source:1883 History of St. Clair County MO, National Historical Co. Pg:1209
BUCKNER RUSSELL, farmer and stock dealer, section 21, was born in Moniteau County, Missouri, May 13, 1837. His father, John Russell, was a native of Kentucky, and married Miss Nancy Alley, of the same state. They had nine children, the subject of this sketch being the fourth child. He was reared to manhood in his native county, and was there educated, also following farming in the locality till 1866, when he came to St. Clair County, Missouri. His landed estate consists of 600 acres. During the war the greater part of his time was occupied in the Confederate service. Mr. R. is a member of the Masonic fraternity. November 8, 1866, he was married to Miss Matilda Harriman, of Illinois. By this union they have four children: John W., Geneva, Elsie G. and Myrtie.

RUSSELL, Richard
Clinton Township, Henry County
born: Jul 7 1838, Cambridgeshire, England
Source:1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg Pg:539
Richard Russell, farmer, section 5, was born in Cambridgeshire, England, July 7, 1838, being a son of William and Rebecca (Gifford) Russell, also natives of England. The former was born in 1817, and died in 1872, while the latter was born in 1817, and died in 1844. They had a family of four children. Richard Russell immigrated to America when about nineteen years of age, and became located in Painesville, Ohio, subsequently coming to Sedalia, Missouri, at that time being in possession of only five dollars. He remained in that city about one and a half years, occupied in contracting, and from there came to his present location September 15, 1867. He is now the owner of about 500 acres of fine land, well improved. February 17, 1867, Mr. Russell was married to Miss Rebecca Bailey, a native of Putnam County, Indiana, born August 9, 1844. Her parents were S. S. and Eliza Bailey, Kentuckians by birth. Her father was born in 1817, and her mother in 1816. They had a family of ten children. Mr. and Mrs. Russell have four children: George S., born November 4, 1871; Franklin J., born September 27, 1873; William T., born January 15, 1874, and Rosa May, born March 3, 1879. Mr. and Mrs. R. are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. The former is a Mason in good standing, belonging to Tebo Lodge, at Clinton. Mr. Russell's brother, Gifford Russell, a farmer of this township, was also born in Cambridgeshire, England, August 21, 1841, and in 1859, immigrated to America, settling at Painesville, Ohio. In 1867, he came to Missouri, and afterwards took up his residence in Henry County.