JAMES BALLARD was born in Greene county, May 2, 1854, his parents being William and Armelia (Smith) Ballard, natives of Illinois. There was a family of nine children, all of whom are living - James, married to Amanda J. Edwards; David, Charles, William, Martha, Emma, Fannie, Sarah E., and Ella. Our subject was reared on a farm, remaining with his parents until 26 years of age, when he was married and purchased 80 acres of land on Sec. 8, T. 12, R. 12, and moved on to it, where he has since resided. He was married Jan. 1, 1880, to Amanda J. Edwards, daughter of Isham and Sarah Edwards. They are members of the Baptist church of Oakley. Mr. Ballard now owns 80 acres of land and is an industrious and intelligent citizen.