Genealogical and Biographical Record of North-Eastern
Kansas
The Lewis Publishing Company, Chicago, 1900
R-Z
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AMOS H RAASCH
Amos H. Raasch, who is recognized as one of the most progressive farmers of
Atchison county, and whose home is on section 27, Kapioma township, is a native
of Wisconsin. His birth took place June 13, 1866, at Dodge City, a point about
ten miles from Waterton. His father, Rev. William Raasch, was a minister in the
Baptist church, and died in May, 1888, mourned by a large circle of sincere
friends. During the Civil war he served with the Seventeenth Wisconsin Infantry
as chaplain, and, during his long and arduous campaigning in the south, bravely
stood at his post of duty, encouraging his comrades and proving himself a true
and reliable friend to every one who wore the blue uniform. He took part in the
operations at Vicksburg, under the leadership of General Grant, and participated
in numerous other hard-fought battles. At last he fell into the hands of the
Confederates and for two interminable weeks languished in Libby prison. In 1869
he removed with his family to Kansas and located upon a farm in Kapioma
township. There his widow yet makes her home, the farm being managed by her
son-in-law, Mr. Vitch. William Raasch and wife were the parents of eight
children, namely: Gustavus, of Higgville, Missouri; August, a resident of
Wichita county, Oklahoma; Rev. William F., who is the pastor of a church not far
from Rochester, New York; Amos H.; Henry, a citizen of Oklahoma; Ida, wife of
George Lovelace, of this township; Huldah, wife of Peter Vitch, previously
referred to as carrying on the old homestead of our subject's father; and
Martha, wife of William Lovelace, of this locality.
When the family settled in Kansas, Amos H. Raasch was a child of four years, and
here he received his education and training as a farmer. Being ambitious and
wide-awake, he has made the best of his opportunities, and has accumulated a
competency within the past few years. He now owns one hundred and five acres of
land, which he has placed under cultivation. One of the most desirable features
of his homestead is his large, well-kept orchard, and each season he raises a
fine variety, of berries and small fruits.
As his honored father did for many years, Mr. Raasch upholds the platform and
policy of the Republican party. Notwithstanding the fact that he is not desirous
of holding public office, his neighbors and friends have often urged him to do
so, to which he has consented in a few instances, acquitting himself with
distinction. Among other minor positions which he has filled are those of
constable and justice of the peace. Both he and his wife are consistent members
of the Second Advent Christian church, at Muscotah, he serving as a deacon in
the official board.
Ever since his marriage, in 1887, Mr. Raasch has found a true companion and
helpmate in his wife, whose maiden name was Eliza Armstrong. She was born in
Winnebago county, Illinois, not far from Rockford, and is one of the six
children of James and Margaret Armstrong, who were natives of Ireland. The
father departed this life in this state a few years ago, but the mother
survives. Ellen, the elder sister of Mrs. Raasch, is the wife of Samuel Niblo,
whose sketch is printed upon another page of this volume; and Maria is the wife
of W. W. Franklyn, of Doniphan county, Kansas. The brothers are Thomas, of this
township; James; and John, who died when in his eighteenth year. Three children
bless the home of Mr. and Mrs. Raasch namely: Margaret, who is ten years old;
Thomas A., now in his eighth year; and Gertrude Fay, a babe of seven months. The
family have a very attractive home, where the evidences of culture and taste
abound, and where their friends delight to share the generous hospitality of the
happy household.
CHARLES M RATHBURN
One of the best known and most popular railroad men in Kansas is the gentleman
whose name heads this sketch and who is the superintendent of all the Missouri
Pacific lines north of Kansas City, and formerly the general superintendent of
the Kansas City, Wyandotte & Northern, with headquarters in Atchison.
Charles M. Rathburn was born August 24, 1846, in Lower Horton, Nova Scotia,
where his mother, who was a Boston woman, was visiting her husband's relatives.
His parents were William and Margaret Fuller Rathburn, the former of whom was
born in Nova Scotia, of English descent. He was brought up on a farm, working in
summer and attending school in the winter until he was fourteen years old, when
he went to Woburn, Massachusetts, a suburb of Boston, and began work in his
stepfather's carriage factory as a blacksmith's helper. He remained there until
the commencement of the Civil war, when, although only a mere lad of sixteen, he
enlisted in the Twelfth Massachusetts Infantry, of which regiment a son of
Daniel Webster was the colonel. The regiment was assigned to the Army of the
Potomac and he served for nearly three years as a private, at the end of that
time becoming a hospital steward of the regular army, a position for which he
had fitted himself by special study. He did service in this capacity in
Virginia, in Chicago and in Columbus, Ohio.
When his duties as a soldier were ended he went into the employ of the Chicago,
Burlington & Quincy Railroad Company, at Aurora, Illinois, acting at various
times as timekeeper in the shops, clerk in the store and car departments, car
repairer and car builder and chief clerk of the track department. From 1874 to
1878 he was the auditor of the National Life Insurance Company, with
headquarters at Chicago. In 1878 he removed to Topeka and was the chief clerk of
the transportation department of the Santa Fe for three years. He was then
appointed assistant superintendent and later superintendent, with headquarters
at La Junta, Colorado. He came to Atchison in 1888 from Santa Fe and has since
occupied his present position. He is also the president of the Atchison Union
Depot & Railroad Company. He has about nine hundred miles of road to look after
and performs his onerous duties with accuracy and dispatch. To fill acceptably
such a responsible office as that which Mr. Rathburn holds requires keen
perception, ripe judgment, a cool head, strong will and untiring energy. It is
to the possession of these qualities that his steady advancement is due, while
his genial manner and considerate treatment of others has made him a host of
warm friends.
JACOB ROYER
A prosperous and influential farmer of Benton township, Atchison county, Jacob
Royer is what may be truly called a self-made man. In his youth he struggled
against marked disadvantages, yet with a brave heart, and eventually won the
goal which he desired, and his example should prove an incentive to every young
man who knows his history.
He is a native of Bellefonte, Center county, Pennsylvania, his birth having
taken place November 13. 1839. He is of sturdy German ancestry, his paternal
grandfather, Grantel Royer, having come to America from Germany prior to the war
of the Revolution in this country. He was accompanied by two brothers and all
three located in Pennsylvania. One of the number served in the war for
independence and gave his life for the land of his adoption. Grantel Royer lived
for many decades in the Keystone state and attained the advanced age of
ninety-seven years his death occurring in Center county. His son Jonathan,
father of Jacob Royer, was born in Berks county, Pennsylvania, in 1803, and upon
reaching maturity married Miss Annie Schaffer. She was a daughter of William
Schaffer and. was born in Center county. Eight children were born to Jonathan
and Annie Royer and of these the two eldest, Samuel and Margaret, are deceased;
Susan, John and Mary are residents of the Keystone state, and Daniel makes his
home in Valley Falls, Kansas. Both he and his younger brother, George, were
soldiers in the civil war and fought bravely for the Union cause. George, who
was the youngest of the family, served in the gallant Seventh Pennsylvania
Cavalry, which endured some of the hardest campaigning of any of the troops
representing that state, and at last the brave soldier boy's life was sacrificed
for his country. The devoted mother did not long survive the death of her
youngest born, but passed into the silent land in 1866, when in her sixty-fourth
year. The father had died many years previously, in 1848, when in the prime of
his manhood -- forty-four years of age.
Owing to the fact of his father's death when Jacob Royer was only nine years
old, the lad was early forced to accept a home among strangers and to do such
work as his strength permitted. As might be expected, his life was not an easy
or pleasant one in many respects and his educational privileges were extremely
limited. Nevertheless, he was of the metal which cannot be crushed and, after he
had thoroughly mastered the blacksmith's trade, he felt assured of a livelihood.
An important step in the life of Mr. Royer was his marriage, on Christmas day,
1860, to Mary, daughter of Peter McLean. She was born in Clarion county,
Pennsylvania, and had two brothers and two step-brothers who were Union soldiers
in the war of the Rebellion. Of the three children who blessed the marriage of
Mr. and Mrs. Royer, Annie died when about fifteen years of age, while Emma is
the wife of Walter Huisley, of Benton township, and S. B., the only son, is at
home.
After the death of his mother, in 1866, Mr. Royer concluded to try his fortune
in the west and accordingly came to Kansas. Purchasing one hundred and twenty
acres of land, situated three miles northeast of Effingham, he proceeded to
cultivate the property and soon had it under good cultivation. As the farm
appears to-day, after more than three decades of judicious improvement, it is
one of the most attractive places in the county. A comfortable house and barns
and a beautiful grove, surrounded by smiling fields of golden grain, comprise a
scene which, for quiet loveliness is not often surpassed.
In his political faith Mr. Royer is a Democrat and fraternally he is a member of
the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Modern Woodmen of America. Both he
and his estimable wife are Methodists in religious belief and their membership
is held in the Effingham church.
AARON P RUSE
A well known farmer of Shannon township, Atchison county, is Aaron Preston Ruse,
who was born in Marion county, Indiana, on the 8th of May, 1838, and is a son of
Jesse and Mary (Reveal) Ruse. The paternal grandfather, Adam Ruse, was a native
of Russia, and in early life crossed the Atlantic to the new world. When the
colonies attempted to throw off the yoke of oppression he joined the American
army and valiantly aided in securing independence. William Reveal, the maternal
grandfather of our subject, was a native of Wales, and served his adopted land
in the war of 1812. Jesse and Mary (Reveal) Ruse, the parents of our subject,
were both natives of Ohio, the latter having been born in Clinton county, where
her father carried on farming. From Clark county, Ohio, Mr. and Mrs. Ruse
removed to Marion county, Indiana, and subsequently went to Huntington county,
that state, where the father died in 1880, the mother passing away in 1876.
A. P. Ruse spent his boyhood days in Huntington county, Indiana, and through the
summer months assisted in the work of the home farm, while in the winter season
he attended the public schools of the neighborhood, thus becoming familiar with
the English branches of learning. To his father he gave the benefit of his
service until he attained his majority, and then started out to make his own way
in the world. He purchased a small farm in Huntington county, but in July, 1865,
he joined the One Hundred and Fifty-third Regiment of Indiana Volunteers and
served until September, 1866, under command of Colonel Cary, the regiment being
engaged in garrison duty.
In 1869 Mr. Ruse removed with his family to Platte county Missouri, where he
engaged in farming and stock-raising, and in 1880 he went to Doniphan county,
Kansas, locating in Wayne township, where he carried on agricultural pursuits
until 1896. In that year he removed to his present farm in Shannon township,
Atchison county, where he has one hundred and sixty acres of arable land, the
greater part of which is under a high state of cultivation. He is also
successfully carrying on stock-raising, and has a well improved property, which
is the reward of his own labors.
In 1860 Mr. Ruse wedded Miss Emily Brown, of Huntington, Indiana, a daughter of
James and Sarah A. Brown. Mr. and Mrs. Ruse have seven children: Anna, now a
widow; Dell, who is engaged in farming; Mary C., wife of William Allee, of Walla
Walla, Washington; John M., a fireman on the Missouri Pacific Railroad; Minnie
B., wife of Edward Oswold, of Shannon township; James L., at home; and Oliver,
who is now practicing medicine.
Mr. Ruse is a member of the school board, and has served as its chairman for
some years. The cause of education finds in him a warm friend, and in his
official capacity he has largely advanced the interests of the schools in this
locality. He holds membership in the Jordan Creek Baptist church, in which he
has served as deacon for ten years, and in the work of the church he takes an
active and commendable interest.
GEORGE S RUSSELL
To the subject of this sketch are due the honors of a pioneer, a useful citizen
and a wise and honest administrator of important public affairs. His experiences
in Kansas date back to the closing months of the civil war, and were colored by
the stirring events which at that time made Kansas the scene of factional
troubles which in some neighborhoods did not terminate so long as there was any
open dispute between the north and the south. He exerted a good influence upon
the work of development which was ushered in with the era of peace, and has
helped to make and is a participant in the prosperity which makes Kansas truly a
state of homes.
George S., or "Squire" Russell, as he is familiarly known, was born near Clyde,
in Sandusky county, Ohio, April 6, 1833, and has been a resident of Atchison
county, Kansas, continuously since 1864, when he bought his farm in Lancaster
township from Dr. Jacobs, its original owner, in fee simple. His father, William
S. Russell; a farmer, was born in Ontario county, New York, in 1802, and was an
early settler in Ohio, where he died in 1875. He was a member of the Ohio state
militia in the old "training" days. In politics he was a Whig and later a
Republican. He served his county as judge of the probate court, and was a man of
much ability, prominence and popularity. His mother, grandmother of Squire
Russell, was a Miss Chase. Her first husband died in early manhood and she
married again.
William S. Russell married Betsy Beach, daughter of a farmer of the state of New
York, and she bore him children, as follows: George S.; Spencer Russell, of
Hudson, Michigan; Emeline, who married Samuel Pursing and now resides in Clyde,
Ohio; Mary, wife of William Eastman, of Tiffin, Ohio; Roena, now Mrs. T. J.
Nichols, of Houston, Texas; and William W., of the state of Wyoming. By a second
marriage, to Eliza Crandal, William S. Russell had the following children:
Estella, Maud, Jessie, Blanche and Grant. Cynthia Russell, sister of William S.
Russell, married Mr. McPherson, and one of their children was the late lamented
General J. B. McPherson, one of the heroes of our civil war.
George S. Russell grew to manhood on his father's farm, and received only a
limited English education. He was a member of his father's household until he
was twenty-eight years old. About that time, in 1860, he married Clarissa J.
Comstock, a daughter of Oliver Comstock, formerly of Connecticut. Three years
after their marriage they came to Kansas, where, planning together and laboring
together, he in his sphere, she in hers, they have overcome numerous obstacles,
prevailed over many discouragements and achieved a success which assures them a
good position in the community and a comfortable competency for their declining
years. To Mrs. Russell her husband accords much credit for his success. The
bravery of pioneer women has always been as conspicuous as that of pioneer men,
and they have been called upon for more self-denial and more fortitude.
To Mr. and Mrs. Russell belongs that best of all honors, the honor of having
reared a family to lives of merit and of usefulness. Their children are
Cornelia, wife of A. L. Keithline, of Shannon township; Emma J.; wife of E. W.
Welch, of Grasshopper township; and Ward, who is a member of his father's
household.
Mr. Russell, a man of great modesty, not at all impressed with his own merits
which are so freely attributed to him by all who know him, makes no claim to
special distinction, but classes himself as one of the great army of honest,
persevering toilers who have been the making of Kansas. He has labored not only
for his own advancement, but for the public good, and has long been recognized
as a very patriotic and public-spirited citizen. He is one of the justices of
the peace of Lancaster township, and is serving his fourth term in that office.
He was for many years a Republican, but some years ago, under the influence of
the spirit of reform which swept over Kansas, he cast his fortunes with the
Populists and has acted and voted with them since.
WILLIAM H RYHERD
William H. Ryherd, one of the prominent and well-known citizens of Atchison
county, claims Missouri as the state of his nativity, his birth having occurred
in Buchanan county on the 1st of January, 1852. His father, Sanford Ryherd, was
a native of Kentucky, and his parents were born in Pennsylvania and belonged to
old and representative families of that state. Removing to Kentucky, the father
of our subject was reared and educated in the Blue Grass state. He was one of
ten children, but of this once numerous family Ellis is the only one now living,
his home being on a farm near Leavenworth, Kansas. Having arrived at years of
maturity Sanford Ryherd was married to Miss Anna Davison, whose birth occurred
in Tennessee. Three children blessed their union: Mrs. Mary E. Gray, who is now
living near St. Joseph, Mrs. Frank Smith and William. The parents died during
the boyhood of our subject, he being left an orphan at the age of three years.
He spent a part of his youth in the family of Rev. Joel Moore, a Christian
minister, who made a good home for the orphan lad and sent him to school. He
pursued his education in the district schools of Kennekuk, Atchison county, and
his friend and benefactor, Rev. Moore, died when our subject was only eleven
years of age. He then made his home with his uncle on a farm near Leavenworth.
His time was then largely devoted to the work of field and meadow and his school
privileges were necessarily limited. He was married, March l0, 1878, by the Rev.
Mr. Todd, in the Presbyterian church at Kennekuk, to Miss Catherine A. Jones.
The wedding attendance was one of the largest ever held in the town. Mrs. Ryherd
was one of the popular young ladies of Kennekuk. was born in Madison county,
Iowa, near Winterset, June 13, 1855, and her father, Owen Jones, became one of
the prominent residents of Brown county, Kansas. During her girlhood she was a
student in the schools of Atchison and at one time was a very capable and
popular teacher of the county.
After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Ryherd removed to Butler county, Kansas, where
they lived for four years and on the expiration of that period returned to
Atchison county, in 1882. They settled upon their present farm, which comprises
four hundred acres of rich and valuable land, constituting one of the best farms
in Grasshopper township. In 1897 Mr. Ryherd erected a modern residence, at a
cost of one thousand dollars. There is a large and substantial barn upon the
place and comfortable sheds for the stock. He raises and feeds a large amount of
stock and that branch of his business adds materially to his income. His
business affairs have been attended with success and he is now one of the
substantial farmers of the neighborhood.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Ryherd have been born seven children, six of whom are now
living, namely: Mabel, the wife of Raleigh Bartlow, who belongs to one of the
old families of Brown county; Roland, a student in the high school at Everest,
Kansas; Bessie M., Birdie E. and Linwood, who are all attending school; and
Dorothy, who is the "baby" of the household and completes the family. One child,
Anna Maud, who was the sixth in order of birth, died at the age of six months.
In politics Mr. Ryherd is a Republican and takes an active interest in the
growth and success of his party, yet has never sought or desired office. He
attends the service of the Methodist church, of which his wife is a member. A
typical self-made man, he was left an orphan at an early age and by honest
industry has worked his way steadily upward to a plane of affluence, his labors
being ably supplemented by the encouragement and assistance of his wife. Mr. and
Mrs. Ryherd are very popular and their many friends delight to enjoy the
hospitality of the pleasant home.
BENJAMIN FRANKLIN SANDERS
Kansas is the home of self-made men. It is peculiarly the home of men of brain
and patriotism who sought broader liberties and opportunities than were theirs
in their former environments. It was a fact worthy of note that the agricultural
population of Kansas is a peculiarly enlightened and intelligent one. Atchison
county has many prominent self-made men among her farmers, and among them no one
has a more satisfactory standing in the community than the man whose name heads
this biography.
Benjamin Franklin Sanders is a son of George and Elizabeth (Graham) Sanders and
was born in Franklin county, Missouri, August 8, 1833. His father, a native of
Kentucky, moved to Missouri while yet comparatively young and there settled and
married Miss Graham, and died there before the family went to Kansas. His widow
died in Atchison county, Kansas. The family of Sanders is of Scotch descent, the
paternal grandfather of the subject of this sketch being an early settler in
Kentucky. The Grahams, originally Scotch, also located early in Virginia, where
members of the family have been prominent in different ways.
The children of George and Elizabeth (Graham) Sanders were as follows: Nancy,
who married William McQuillan and after his death William Burns, and lives in
Bates county, Missouri; Benjamin Franklin; Robert, who is dead; Oliver, who
lives in Jewell county, Kansas; and Lydia, wife of Frederick Wilming, of
Atchison county, Kansas. Schools were few and poor where Benjamin Franklin
Sanders lived when he was a boy, and he never in his life passed three months
within the walls of a school-house. At twelve years of age he was obliged to
take up the battle for existence on his own account. His father apprenticed him
to James Verden, a carriage and wagon maker at St. Louis, to learn the
carriagemaker's trade, where he also attended night school.
Mr. Sanders remained at St. Louis about twelve years. He went to Kansas first in
1856, but after a brief but comprehensive survey of the existing local
conditions returned to St. Louis, well pleased with the country and the
prospects it held out to him. In the spring of 1857 he proceeded to Kansas by
boat, prepared to make his home there. He opened a shop and began working at his
trade at Monrovia, Atchison county, Kansas, and was in business there with more
or less success for two years. He then gave his attention to farming.
Taking up a claim about ten miles from any settlement, Mr. Sanders got ready to
locate there and was about to do so when it occurred to him that the country
about his place might never be settled and he determined to relinquish the claim
in favor of another, nearer civilization. He found an eighty-acre claim more
favorably located and pre-empted it and upon it began his successful career as a
farmer. In 186o he bought property, which was the nucleus of his present
holdings, that comprise four hundred acres of good farming land.
Mr. Sanders has devoted himself to general farming, the production of grain and
the raising of hogs and other stock, and by careful attention to business and
the exercise of good judgment has achieved a noteworthy success. He is a
life-long abolitionist and has been a Republican since the organization of the
party. His public spirit is recognized and his interest in all movements tending
to the enhancement of the welfare of the people of his township, county and
state has made him a useful citizen. He has served his fellow citizens two terms
as trustee of his township and one term as township treasurer.
During the historic period popularly referred to as "border times" Mr. Sanders
had a part in some of the stirring events which took place in his part of the
state. In the civil war he was a member of Captain Whittaker's company of
Colonel McQuigg's regiment of the Kansas state militia. The regiment
participated in the battle of Little Blue, east of Kansas City, Missouri, and
was effectively in evidence at other times when there was business to be
attended to with the bushwhacking enemy. After good and faithful service Mr.
Sanders was honorably discharged as fourth sergeant of his company at Fort
Leavenworth in 1864.
In 1859 Mr. Sanders married Miss Margaret Ramsey, who came to Atchison county,
Kansas, from Putnam county, Ohio. In 1855, with John Ramsey, who became one of
the influential men of pioneer days and in the days before and during the war,
our subject had a conspicuous part in maintaining law and order and in
establishing justice in "bleeding Kansas." Mrs. Sanders died in 1868, having
borne her husband children named Ira (of Effingham, Atchison county), Bertha
(Mrs. C. G. Moore, now dead), William, and "little Joey" (dead). Mr. Sanders
married for his second wife Elizabeth (Ramsey) Keirns, a sister of his deceased
wife and the widow of Rufus Keirns. Following are the names of the children by
this marriage: Henry R.; Etta, wife of Charles Brown, of Pardee; and Benjamin
Franklin, Jr., who died at the age of seventeen years. Mrs. Sanders surviving
child by her former marriage is Joseph A. Keirns, a prominent farmer of Center
township. The family of Sanders and those with which it has intermarried are all
well known and different members of them have been prominent in one way or
another. Mr. Sanders, now just past the prime of life but still hale and
vigorous, is in a position to take life, easy during his declining years and his
numerous friends concur in the opinion that his success is well deserved. His
home, as directed by Mrs. Sanders, is one in which good cheer and hospitality
reign supreme. Both he and his wife have been members of the Methodist Episcopal
church for over thirty years. He has been a class leader and steward and has
been superintendent of the Sunday school for more than fifteen years.
FRANCIS SCHLETZBAUM
Among the prominent German families of Eden, Lancaster township, Atchison
county, Kansas, the family of John Schletzbaum has long been well known. John
Schletzbaum himself was for a protracted period one of the leader's in township
affairs, and Francis Schletzbaum has been one of the most active men in the
township during recent years.
Francis Schletzbaum was born in Munich, Bavaria, November 21, 1831, a son of
John and Annie (Schuester) Schletzbaum, who had children as follows: Barbara,
who married Joseph Baner, and is buried in Saint Clair county, Illinois; Annie,
widow of John Wetzer, who lives at San Diego, California; Mary, wife of Charles
Kuchs, of Davenport, Iowa; and Joseph, now deceased, who was once county clerk
of Doniphan county, Kansas.
The Schletzbaum family came to the United States from Bremen, on the Louisa, to
Baltimore, being sixty-five days en route. They were bound for Belleville,
Illinois, and it required three weeks for them to make the journey from
Baltimore to St. Louis. In 1856 the head of the family died near Belleville, and
two years later the subject of this sketch came to Kansas. He came by steamer on
the Missouri river and settled on a pre-emption claim in Doniphan county,
previously selected by himself, which farm is now the property of Frederick
Metz. He remained at that location until 1865, when he sold his title and
purchased a piece of unimproved land in Atchison county, where his beautiful and
attractive home now stands.
During the past thirty-four years Mr. Schletzbaum has made the most of his
opportunities. His labor has been rewarded and his original quarter-section has
grown to a tract of five hundred and sixty acres, and upon his farm can be found
all the requirements necessary to handle and properly house all the products of
the field. Fortune has smiled upon him and Providence has dealt with him with a
hand no less just than generous. If when old age overtakes him he is bountifully
provided, it is in the way of a Divine blessing conferred upon one whose acts
have been acts of honor and whose deeds have been deeds of peace. Frank
Schletzbaum is an extensive farmer and has always been a grower of stock.
Recently he has engaged in the breeding of a fine grade of polled Durham cattle.
One of the well known Republicans of his township, he does his part as a
delegate, and as a local worker but never permits himself to become a candidate
for an elective office. He has been Eden's postmaster for a quarter of a
century, has served thirty-five years on the school board and is a member of the
executive committee of the county central committee. Mr. Schletzbaum was not
regularly enlisted in the federal service during the days of the civil war, but
he was a member of the state militia of Kansas and was called out at the time
General Price raided Missouri, advancing toward Kansas City. Westport was the
only place at which his company came near having an engagement with the rebels,
which opportunity was lost only by the cowardice or incapacity of Colonel Treat.
Francis Schletzbaum was married in Illinois, in 1857, to Elizabeth Schaad, who
was born in Switzerland in 1838. Their children are: Frank Schletzbaum, who is
married to Victoria Hess; Antoine, a telegraph operator with the Missouri
Pacific Railroad Company, who is married to Frankie Buckles; John, whose wife
was Mary Hunkey; Mary, deceased wife of Dr. Shelley; Emma, Mrs. Edward Donland,
of Atchison; Annie, bookkeeper for the Lewis Shultz Lumber Company, of Atchison;
Cyril; and Olive.
HON JOHN SEATON
One of the most popular, as well as one of the most useful, citizens of Atchison
is the man whose name heads this sketch and who is the proprietor of the largest
foundry in the state of Kansas. He was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, June 11, 1834,
but when he was three weeks old the family removed to Louisville, Kentucky, and
there his boyhood days were spent. His parents were John M. and Elizabeth
(Jones) Seaton, the former born in Virginia and the latter in Vermont. The
father was a soldier in the Mexican war and was killed at the storming of the
heights of Cerro Gordo.
At the time of his father's death Mr. Seaton was about eleven years old. He was
fifteen years old when he began learning the trade of a machinist, and a few
years later was working as a journeyman in St. Louis, Missouri. At the age of
twenty-two, although his entire capital consisted of two dollars and fifty
cents, he started a foundry at Alton, Illinois. Pluck and perseverance won
success, the enterprise prospered, and when he removed to Atchison in 1872 he
had fifty men in his employ. When the Civil war broke out Mr. Seaton enlisted
and was made captain of Company B, in the Twenty-second Kansas Volunteers, and
was under General Grant when he fought his first battle at Belmont. Captain
Seaton was in command of the skirmish line that opened that engagement, and one
of the most precious of his possessions today is the letter received from the
famous commander, commending him for the efficient manner in which he performed
the task.
Six months before Mr. Seaton came to Atchison the city had voted ten thousand
dollars in bonds to any man who would establish a foundry. He accepted the offer
and the result has been of the greatest benefit to the community. He has a large
and finely equipped plant and does work all over the west. He gives employment
to over two hundred men and works for their interest as well as his own,
retaining the full force even through dull seasons and periods of financial
depression. He understands his business thoroughly, and no slighted or imperfect
work is ever allowed to go out of the establishment. This has given him a
prestige, and no foundry stands higher with architects and builders. He does
general architectural work, and in addition makes locomotive wheels,
smoke-stacks, steam cylinders, car stoves, etc., for the Santa Fe, Missouri
Pacific and Fort Scott & Gulf roads. His works cover an area of seven hundred by
four hundred feet, and his business amounts to a quarter of a million annually.
In 1857 Mr. Seaton was married to Miss Charlotte E. Tuthill, of Alton, and five
children have been born to them. Of these, Lillie M., is the wife of George
Hendrickson and lives in Muscotah, Kansas; Mary E. married Dr. William H.
Condit, of Kansas City, Missouri ; John C. is now manager of his father's
business; Nellie T. married Theodore Byram, a farmer of Atchison County, Kansas;
and George L. is assistant manager of his father's theater. John C. Seaton was
born in Alton, Illinois, in 1861. He is a man of first-class business ability,
and has been of the greatest assistance to his father in his work. He was
married, in 1889, to Miss Lillie Burtis, of Independence, Missouri.
Mr. Seaton is a stanch Republican, and is so popular with all classes that he
has been elected five times to the state legislature, and is holding that
position at present. He is a member of John A. Martin Post. No. 93, G. A. R.,
the Loyal Legion and of the Knights of Pythias. Socially, Mr. Seaton is a
genial, unassuming gentleman, who is proud of his war record, of the fact that
he has secured wealth and honor by his own unaided efforts and by a life of
undoubted integrity, and who is not ashamed of the time when he worked at his
trade as do the men now under him. Although having reached an age when he might
well retire and enjoy the fruits of his industry, his activity is still
unlimited, and he takes pleasure in seeing that everything is conducted properly
throughout his works. As a citizen Mr. Seaton has done much for Atchison, and it
was through his enterprise and liberality that his handsome theater was built.
He has a very pleasant and commodious residence.
JOHN J SLATTERY
The name of Slattery has long been prominent in Atchison county, Kansas, and its
Irish ring is an index to the character of the men who have borne it. It has
always stood for enterprise, progressiveness and patriotism and has never been
dishonored. Some account of the career of John J. Slattery and of his father,
Michael Slattery, deserves a place in this work.
John J. Slattery was born in Shannon township, Atchison county, Kansas, November
28, 1863, a son of Michael and Catherine (Dooley) Slattery. Michael Slattery was
born in county Glare, Ireland, in 1818, one of the seven children of John
Slattery, and was reared as a country boy. He acquired an education limited but
practical. A natural aptitude for penmanship enabled him to become an
exceptionally good penman, and his ability in that way aided him materially in
after years. He came alone to the United States, and after ward his father and
the rest of his family came also. Soon after his arrival in this country Mr.
Slattery went to Connecticut and found employment as a gardener near Hartford.
He was not long in that service, however, but entered the employ of Colt, the
great gun maker.
In 1840 Michael Slattery came west as far as Michigan and secured a position at
rough work at one of the then prominent railway stations of that state. It was
not long, however, before his ability as a penman became known, and he was taken
into the office as bill clerk. Later he was promoted to the position of shipping
clerk, and held that place until 1857, when he went to Atchison county, Kansas.
Soon after reaching the county he located on a claim in the wilds, seven miles
northwest of the village of Atchison. He at once began farming, went into stock
raising and afterwards into stock shipping, and became a heavy dealer in hogs
and cattle. His farming interests increased with the same rapidity as his stock
dealing, and there was perhaps no man more prominent in that line in Atchison
county. He remained in active business until 1896, when he retired to Atchison.
Michael Slattery is one of the best of the many good men of which Atchison
county can boast. He is exemplary in his habits, abhors profanity and vulgarity,
is an ideal head of a family and a man whose example is in every way worthy of
emulation. He was married to Catherine Dooley, of Detroit, Michigan. She died in
October, 1878, having borne him children as follows: Mary, widow of Robert
Cleary, one of the prominent farmers of Shannon township; Henrietta; John J.;
William C.; Nellie, a teacher in the public schools of Kansas City, Missouri;
and Kate.
John J. Slattery, son of the prominent pioneer whose career has been outlined,
has lived his whole life thus far in the community in which he was born. After
finishing his studies in the country school he entered Saint Benedict's College
and completed a commercial course there in two years, at the age of twenty-two.
Upon his return to his neighbors and friends, equipped with a good education and
ready for the duties of life, he was urged for the office of clerk of Shannon
township by a large element of its population regardless of political belief,
but was nominated by the Democrats. He served in that capacity most acceptably
for two years, and was rewarded in part by his elevation to the office of
township trustee. This place he filled three years, and with such a degree of
efficiency that his party was anxious to further reward his faithfulness with an
advancement to a county office. He was consequently made Democratic candidate
for county treasurer, but was defeated by the usual Republican majority. He
submitted to the people's will, satisfied with having polled a vote in excess of
his party's numerical strength. For the past few years Mr. Slattery has devoted
his entire time to his farm. He owns a splendid quarter-section on the eastern
edge of Lancaster township, and near the Slattery homestead, and he is regarded
as one of the intelligent and progressive modern farmers of the county. In 1892
he bought the old Hiram Parker place, and in February of the same year married
Nora Finigan. Mrs. Slavery's father, Thomas Finigan, was born in Ireland, and
was one of the early settlers in Shannon township. Mr. and Mrs. Slattery have
had three children: Willie, who is deceased; Stella and Albert.
From the foregoing it will be seen that the Slatterys have been a factor in the
settlement and development of Atchison county. The head of the family has been,
and is, just such a man as every community hails with delight and hastens to
honor. Such men bequeath their spirit to the generations that follow them and
take up their work. Born of honorable parentage and with modest environments,
John J. Slattery made the most of his opportunities. He grew to manhood with the
confidence of his neighbors, who honored him with public office, twice without
opposition, and who rejoice with him in his achievements and his worldly
success.
J W SLOANE
The pride and strength of any nation, its mainstay and support is the farmer,
whose toil produces food for the masses, and without whose labors untold
disaster would overtake the nation within an extremely short time. The hardy
frontiersman of America has had far greater tasks before him than the mere
tilling of the soil, for besides breaking prairie and preparing the ground for
cultivation, in some sections razing great forests, he has had rivers to bridge,
roads to make and privations and hardships innumerable to endure. Schools and
churches have been built, good government upheld and everything pertaining to
civilization championed -- yet rarely has the brave frontiersman faltered in the
grand and noble work, none the less noble because self-imposed, and progress and
prosperity now reign in regions which only a few years ago were uninhabited save
by the red men and wild beasts. In the mighty work of rendering the great state
of Kansas a fitting place for mankind Mr. Sloane certainly has performed his
share and no one is more deserving of praise.
He was born at Gallipolis, Ohio, March 20, 1833, one of the nine children of W.
B. and Sarah Ann (Hill) Sloane. His paternal grandfather, Joseph Sloane, was one
of seven brothers who fought in the war of the Revolution in the Colonial army,
and ably assisted in achieving the independence of this, their beloved land. W.
B. Sloane .and his wife came to Kansas in 1857, making the tediously long
journey by boat as far as St. Joseph, Missouri. They were numbered among the
first settlers in Atchison county and were respected and beloved for their many
worthy qualities. The father died at the age of fifty-six years and the mother
lived to see her seventy-fifth year. They were members of the Universalist
church. Their children were named as follows: Henry J., J. W., Thomas, Mrs.
Julia Pierce, Emma M., John F., Harris, Anna and Sarah. Only the four first
mentioned survive.
In his youth J. W. Sloane attended the public schools of his native state, and
having acquired an excellent education he concluded to come to the west for a
permanent residence. Accordingly, in 1856, he made the journey, which then
consumed several days, and upon reaching his destination embarked in the hotel
business. For eleven years, which included the stormiest days in the history of
Kansas -- the years prior to and during the war of the Rebellion -- he
skillfully and successfully conducted his hostelry, which was a well-known
landmark in this section of the state. In 1867 he purchased a quarter-section of
land, -- a portion of his present fine homestead, -- and to this he has added
until he now has three hundred and twenty acres, all situated within one tract.
Among many other desirable features of his farm a splendid orchard, twelve acres
in extent, should be noted. Beautiful shade trees and a fine grove add to the
value and attractiveness of the homestead, which is, moreover, supplied with
substantial buildings. Everything about the place bespeaks the constant care and
attention of the fortunate owner, who, though now more than sixty years of age,
is strong and vigorous, owing, doubtless, to his outdoor life.
A marriage ceremony, performed September 20, 186o, united the fortunes of J. W.
Sloane and Ellen H. Hill, who had grown to womanhood in Ohio and had then
engaged in teaching. She is a daughter of Calvin and Jane (Forquhar) Hill, the
former a native of Essex county, New York, and a carpenter by trade. Fraternally
he was a Mason and religiously a Universalist. Death claimed him when he was
seventy-seven years of age and his estimable wife also departed this life at
that age. Their only son, Lyman, died when in his twentieth year, and one
daughter, Josephine B. Kiphard, died in Minnesota. Mary Hill and Mrs. Sophia
Doup are still residents of Ohio, their home being in the town of Fletcher.
Five children of Mr. and Mrs. Sloane are living and filling positions of honor
and respect in the several communities where their lot is cast. Charles L.
married Hattie Griswell and lives in Sulphur City, Kansas; W. D., of Coleridge,
Nebraska, chose Addie Cloyse for his wife. Josie K. married Dr. J. J. Conner, of
Willis, Kansas. Boyd V. remains with his parents, aiding in the management of
the homestead. Mary H. wife of Calvin Long, resides in Soldier City, Kansas.
Julius C., a promising young man, died at the age of eighteen years, and Frank
was only three months old when summoned to the better land.
Being in thorough sympathy with all philanthropies which have for their object
the uplifting of mankind, Mr. and Mrs. Sloane contribute to various religious
and charitable enterprises and are esteemed members of the Presbyterian church
at Huron. For more than twenty-one years Mr. Sloane has been identified with the
Masonic fraternity and is an active member of Huron Lodge, No. 72, F. & A. M.
Politically be is a Republican and while he never has desired to hold public
office he is at present acting as a trustee of the high school. He possesses the
happy faculty of looking upon the bright side of life and everyone whom he knows
is his friend.
THOMAS BENTON SMITH
A public-spirited citizen of Grasshopper township, Atchison county, is Thomas
Benton Smith, who takes commendable interest in everything pertaining to the
upbuilding and development of this region. He has held several local offices and
has used his influence on behalf of new industries, good government, schools and
improvements of all kinds befitting an enterprising community in these last days
of the nineteenth century.
His father, William J. Smith, was reared to manhood in Pennsylvania, his native
state. There he married Lucinda Barkley, whose father was a soldier in the war
of 1812, serving under the leadership of the gallant General Greene. Only four
of the children born to W. J. Smith and wife now survive, namely: Mrs. Margaret
Pugh, of Indiana; Alvah, who is a hero of the Civil war, having served in the
One Hundred and Fifty-first Illinois Infantry, and now resides in Franklin
county, Kansas; Mrs. Lucinda Spangler, of Edward, Oklahoma, and Thomas Benton.
Isaac is deceased; Joseph died in 1880, and William R. passed away at his home
in Bureau county, Illinois. The mother departed this life in 1864, when
sixty-two years of age, and the father followed her to the silent land in the
spring of 1869.
The birth of Thomas Benton Smith occurred August 16, 1843, in Grant county,
Indiana, and was eight years of age when the family removed to Bureau county,
Illinois. There he attended the public schools and for some time pursued his
higher studies in the Dover (Illinois) Academy. The dread Civil war then came on
and at the second call of Lincoln for volunteers he enlisted in Company B,
Ninety-third Illinois Infantry, under command of Captain Holden Putnam and
Colonel J. N. Hopkins. During his army life Mr. Smith took part in a number of
decisive or important battles and campaigns, among others, those of Jackson,
Mississippi, and Dalton, Georgia. In October, 1864, while serving in General
McPherson's corps, he was present at the battle of Champion Hills, sustaining a
severe wound in the left shoulder. At the close of his service he received an
honorable discharge and returned to his old home in Illinois.
In January, 1866, occurred the marriage of Mr. Smith and Mary Woodruff, who is a
native of New York and is a daughter of Nathan and Delia Woodruff. Of the nine
children who blessed the union of our subject and wife, three have been called
to the better land. Charles E. is engaged in the grain business at Effingham,
and Albert A. is associated with him. the brothers running a large elevator and
being considered young men of exceptional ability and enterprise. Thomas Benton,
Jr., is a student at the county high school.. Alice May is the wife of M. E.
Bevan, of this township; and Blanche is the wife of Harry Reece, also of this
locality. Angie is at home with her parents; Grace died in her third year;
Goldie was seven at the time of her death; Lottie, wife of W. D. Beven, is also
deceased. To his children Mr. Smith has given good educational advantages.
Charles E., who attended Campbell University at Holton, Kansas, subsequently
taught school for several terms.
In his political faith Mr. Smith is an uncompromising Republican. He has served
his fellow citizens as township trustee for some four years and was a
high-school trustee for two years. Fraternally he belongs to McFarland Post, G.
A. R., of Muscotah, and is identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
Religiously he and his estimable wife are Congregationalists, actively
interested in the spreading of the gospel of righteousness, peace and good will
toward mankind. For many years Mr. Smith has lived in Atchison county,. Kansas,
during this period having owned and cultivated the valuable homestead where he
may be found to-day. It comprises one hundred and sixty acres, well improved
with commodious barns and buildings. The family residence is an attractive
home-like place, and is furnished in excellent taste. Good judgment and
enterprise have characterized all the undertakings of Mr. Smith and success is
his to-day as a result of industry and diligence.
Among the honored citizens of Effingham, Kansas, is the well-known gentleman whose name introduces this sketch, Benjamin F. Snyder, ex-probate judge of Atchison county, Kansas. Judge Snyder is a native of Ohio, born near Canal Dover in Tuscarawas county, December 31, 1843, a son of Rezin A. and Susan (Helwig) Snyder, the former a native of Maryland and the latter of Pennsylvania. Rezin A. Snyder and his wife went to Ohio in early life, settling among the pioneers of Tuscarawas county, and on a farm in that county they spent many years, she dying there. He afterward married and moved to Holmes county, but some twenty years later removed to Wayne county and died there. In his boyhood Benjamin F. attended the district schools and assisted his father in the farm work. He was seventeen when the civil war came on. Patriotism, which has always been a strong element in his make-up, showed itself at that early age, and when the call was made for volunteers to put down the rebellion he was among the first to enlist. As a member of Company E, Sixteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, he went to the front, his command being assigned to the Department of the Gulf, General Sherman commanding the forces. Young Snyder was a participant in the siege of Vicksburg in 1863, the capture of Mobile and the engagement at Jackson, Mississippi, besides other smaller actions. He remained in the service until the close of the war, when he was honorably discharged, being mustered out of the service in September 1865.
On his return home from the army Mr. Snyder engaged in farming at his old home in Ohio, and for two years devoted his energies to farming and stock-raising there. That year he came west and settled in Center township, Atchison county, Kansas, where he has had farming interests ever since. He is now the owner of eighty acres of fine land just outside the corporate limits of Effingham, the buildings on which were erected by him, and on this place he carries on general farming and stock-raising.
Judge Snyder has always been a Republican and has a political career that covers a number of years. He was three times elected and served as trustee of Center township. Under President Harrison's administration he was appointed postmaster of Effingham, which office he filled acceptably until he resigned in order to accept the office of probate judge. This latter office he filled three terms, serving in all six years and retiring in January, 1899. Since then he has devoted his time and attention to his farm and other private affairs.
Like most veterans of the Civil war, Judge Snyder maintains membership in the Grand Army of the Republic, being identified with Effingham Post, No. 276. He is also a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, and both he and his wife belong to the Lutheran church.
He was married, in 1871, to Miss Mary E. Wallick, a daughter of Benjamin and Mary Wallick, her family having come to Atchison county, Kansas, in pioneer clays. Her father is now well advanced in years and is still a resident of this county. Mr. and Mrs. Snyder have five children, namely: Effie May, wife of Charles Ellis, of Atchison county; Mabel, Homer R. and Mearl J. and Earl G., twins.
GEORGE M SNYDER
George M. Snyder is justly accounted one of the most progressive and patriotic
citizens of Effingham, whose interests he ever seeks to promote. Since his early
years his life has been intimately associated with this portion of the
enterprising state of Kansas, in whose possibilities for yet greater triumphs he
is an earnest believer.
Born October 1, 1857, in Winfield, Ohio, George M. Snyder is a son of H. C. and
Caroline F. (Mason) Snyder. likewise natives of the Buckeye state. The father
removed with his family to Atchison county, Kansas, in 1868, and located at
Monrovia. All of his seven sons and six daughters are living, the elder ones
being respected citizens and heads of families. He was a pioneer in this county,
and nobly endured the hardships which fell to the lot of the frontiersman.
Improving a large farm in which labors he was assisted by his sons, he provided
his children with good educations and qualified them for their future struggle
for a livelihood. The respect and admiration of all who have been associated
with him, in business or society, is his, in unstinted measure.
When a lad of eleven years, G. M. Snyder left his native state and became a
permanent resident of Kansas, with the other members of the parental family.
After he had completed the course of study laid down in the public schools here,
he attended the Atchison Institute, and prepared himself as a teacher.
Subsequently he had charge of a school for about a year, but, not desiring to
devote his entire life to that calling, he selected another pursuit, and served
an apprenticeship to the builder's trade, with Mr. McNeal, of Effingham.
Thorough and painstaking in everything which he attempts, he soon became one of
the leaders in his line of business in this locality. Many of the finest and
most substantial public buildings and private residences in Effingham and
vicinity were erected by him, and built upon plans and designs of his own
making. Among others, the Effingham Catholic church, which is a handsome
structure, and acknowledged to be one of the finest houses of worship in this
portion of the state, stands as proof of his skill. Unlike many contractors and
builders, he takes a personal interest in his work and, in every instance,
strives to meet the needs and wishes of his patrons.
Socially, Mr. Snyder ranks as high as he does in commercial circles. The only
fraternal organization with which he is identified is that of the United
Workmen, his membership being in Effingham Lodge, No. 48. A man of genuine
public spirit, he has not neglected the official duties to which he has been
called, and as township clerk, in which capacity he served for two years, and as
a member of the school board, he distinguishes himself by his fidelity and
ability. Politically, he is an ardent Republican.
In June, 1888, the marriage of Mr. Snyder and Daisy Stetler, a daughter of John
A. Stetler, of Effingham, was celebrated. Mrs. Snyder received good educational
advantages in the public schools of this place, and is a valued worker in the
Methodist church. The only child of Mr. and Mrs. Snyder, born December 26, 1890,
was christened John Dean. He is a bright, promising little lad, a great favorite
with his teachers and all who know him.
HENRY CLAY SNYDER
For almost a third of a century H. C. Snyder has been a resident of Atchison
county and is therefore one of the leading pioneers of the locality. He resides
in Effingham, where he has a wide acquaintance. and throughout the community he
is well known, enjoying the high regard of many friends. A native of Ohio, he
was born in Canal Dover, Tuscarawas county, on the 3d of August, 1832, and is a
son of Rezin A. Snyder, a native of Maryland. The grandfather was Henry Snyder
and the great-grandfather Jacob Snyder, both natives of Maryland. Henry Snyder
married Miss Catharine Keplinger and they became the parents of seven children,
three sons and four daughters. Henry Snyder died in Ohio and his wife passed
away in Adams county, Indiana.
R. A. Snyder, the father of our subject. removed with his parents from Maryland
to the Buckeye state during his early boyhood and having arrived at years of
maturity he was married, in Ohio, to Miss Catherine Kohr, a daughter of
Christian and Susan (Thomas) Kohr. Four children were born of this union: Elias,
a resident of Tuscarawas county, Ohio; Henry C. Christian, who died at the age
of three years; and Jacob, who died in Effingham, leaving a widow and four
children. The mother of these children died at the age of thirty-five years and
the father afterward married again, having nine children by the second marriage,
one of whom is Benjamin F. Snyder, of Atchison county. The father had a third
wife, by whom he had no children. He was a Republican in his political views and
religiously was connected with the Lutheran church. He devoted his time and
energies to farming until his death, which occurred at the age of sixty-three
years, in Wayne county, Ohio.
Henry Clay Snyder was reared in Ohio, attended the public schools and aided in
the work of the home farm. In early life he also learned the blacksmith's trade,
which he followed for some years. He was always a capable workman with tools as
well as an enterprising and practical agriculturist. On the 28th of December,
1854, he was married, near Canal Dover, Ohio, to Miss Caroline Mason, who was
born July 28, 1836, in the Buckeye state, and was reared and educated in Ashland
county. Her father, James Mason, was born in Ohio and was a son of an English
soldier, who at one time was stationed in Canada. James Mason was married, in
Ashland, Ohio, to Miss Susan Clayburg, a daughter of Isaac and Susan (Liphart)
Clayburg. As a means of livelihood he conducted a hotel, following that pursuit
throughout his business career. He gave his political support to Democracy, and
in religious belief he was a Lutheran, his family all being members of a church
of that denomination. His death occurred in Farmington, Illinois, when he had
attained the age of sixty-eight years. Mr. Snyder removed to Kansas in 1868,
locating near Monrovia. Afterward he located a farm about two and a half miles
southwest from Effingham and there for twenty-eight years Mr. Snyder
successfully carried on agricultural pursuits. He placed his land under a high
state of cultivation, and his industry, enterprise and capable management
brought to him very creditable success. It was thus that he won a handsome
competence that now enables him to live retired. He was long numbered among the
most progressive farmers of the community and his present rest is therefore well
merited. In 1896 he removed to Effingham, where he owns one of the most
attractive, substantial and commodious residences in the town.
The home of Mr. and Mrs. Snyder has been blest with eleven children, seven sons
and four daughters, namely: James R., who is married and has three children and
makes his home in Center township, Atchison county; George M., a contractor and
builder of Effingham. who has one child; Mary, the wife of J. N. Brown, of
Dryden, Michigan, by whom she has two children; Charles, a resident of Benton
township, who is married and has seven children; Harry, a pump manufacturer of
Effingham, who is married and has one child Jessie, the wife of M. Noffsinger,
of Benton township, by whom she has three children; Joseph, who is living in
Benton township, is married and has four children; Frank, a carpenter living at
home; Walter S., a mechanic; Clara, the wife of W. W. Cahoon, of Effingham; and
Gertrude, who is a student of music in Bethany College at Topeka, Kansas. All of
the family have marked musical talent and are able to perform creditably on the
violin, piano and several other musical instruments. Several of the sons are
members of the Effingham Military Band and of the orchestra and they also have a
band composed entirely of their own family. One of the sons, Walter S., joined
the Twenty-second Kansas infantry during the Spanish-American war and served as
a member of the band.
In politics Mr. Snyder is a Republican and has served as a trustee of Kapioma
township and also of Benton township. Both he and his wife are members of the
Lutheran church and their lives have been honorable and upright and gained to
them the high regard of many friends. Mr. Snyder has now reached the age of
sixty-eight years and is a well-preserved man showing that his energies have
been well directed, and his kindly interest in the welfare of others has gained
him the good will of all with whom he has come in contact. He well deserves
mention in the history of the county with which he has been so long identified.
MARK D SNYDER
This gentleman is a well-known agriculturist of Atchison county, living in
Benton township, where he owns a fine farm of two hundred acres, the greater
part of which is under a high state of cultivation. Its well tilled fields,
excellent improvements and substantial buildings all indicate the careful
supervision of the owner and class him among the practical and progressive
farmers of this section of the state.
Mr. Snyder is one of the native sons of the county, born November 2, 1858. His
father was Hon. S. J. H. Snyder, who through the early period of Kansas'
development was a leading actor in the events which form the history of the
commonwealth. He was born in Washington county, Maryland, February 7, 1812, and
died in Monrovia, Atchison county, November 28, 1873,. at the age of sixty-one
years and nine months. In 1820 he accompanied his father on the removal to
Tuscarawas county, Ohio, where he pursued his education. He spent three months
during three winters in the district schools and about two weeks in a graded
school in Canton, Ohio, making nine months and a half in all; but broad
experiences in the affairs of life, an observing eye and a retentive memory made
him a well informed man. Between 1830 and 1833, almost entirely unaided he
cleared a farm of one hundred and sixty acres of heavily timbered land. In 1838
he married Susan Winkelpleck, purchased a tract of timber land and continued its
cultivation until 1848. On the morning of the thirty-sixth anniversary of his
birth his wife died, leaving him with three small children. To escape from his
crushing grief he sold all he had, placed his children with families in the
neighborhood and traveled four thousand miles, mostly on foot. Later he secured
a helpmeet for himself and a mother for his children through his marriage to
Eliza Fisher. He followed nine of his children to the grave, while seven
survived him, and thus his lot was one intermingled with sadness. In 1852 he
removed to Indiana and in 1854 took up his abode at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
From that time until his death Mr. Snyder was a resident of the Sunflower state
and experienced all the trials, hardships and dangers shared by those who
opposed the introduction of slavery into the territory. On the morning of the
4th of May, 1854, he made the first legal claim ever entered in Kansas,
comprising the land upon which the southern part of the city of Leavenworth now
stands, and then returned to Indiana for his family. When he again arrived in
this state he found his claim gone and the border ruffians in possession of the
entire country! He was driven from the polls at the first election held in the
territory on account of his free-soil principles. Two other claims which he
bought were wrested from him by a pro-slavery squatter court, his life was
threatened and he sought refuge in an unsettled part of the state, where the
town of Monrovia is now locate?. He was elected to the first "free-state"
legislature, but was indicted for treason and taken captive by the South
Carolinians. It was a time when no man with free-state views could secure
justice, but as the years passed law and order resumed their reign and justice
was once more enthroned. In 1862 Mr. Snyder was elected to the legislature and
subsequently served for two terms in the house and one in the senate, filling
the positions with distinction and leaving the impress of his strong character
and love of right upon the legislation of the state.
Mr. Snyder was a devoted Christian and was one of the organizers of the first
Lutheran church organization in the state, -- at Monrovia, -- of which he
remained a faithful member until his death. He was enthusiastic in the Sunday
school cause and his love for children caused him to have great influence over
them in leading them to a knowledge of truth and of Christianity. He wrote two
very interesting Sunday school books, -- "The Lost Children" and "Scenes in the
Far West," and at the time of his death was engaged in the preparation of a work
entitled "The Evidences of Christianity." His influence was ever in behalf of
the betterment of mankind and his Christianity was of that practical kind which
introduces helpfulness, kindness and forbearance into our daily lives. To his
family he left the priceless heritage of an untarnished name. The children who
survived him were: Mrs. Anna Berndt, now of Mexico; John H., who is engaged in
the real estate business in San Diego, California; Sarah, the wife of D. H.
Dunn, of Atchison county; Marcus D.; Cora E. Shiflet, of Atchison county; Susan,
deceased wife of A. Reck, her death having occurred in Trinidad, Colorado; and
Mrs. Angie Conley, who died in Leavenworth, Kansas. Mrs. Snyder died August 30,
1895, at the age of sixty-seven years. She was a member of the Lutheran church
and a most estimable lady.
M. D. Snyder, whose name introduces this review, was born, reared and educated
in Atchison county. He was only fifteen years of age at the time of his father's
death, after which he remained with his mother, assisting in the work of the
farm. He was married November 30, 1881, to Miss Helen M. Maxfield, of Atchison,
who was born in Henry county, Illinois, a daughter of David and Anna (Freeze)
Maxfield. Her mother died when Mrs. Snyder was only nine years of age, leaving
seven children. Her father now resides in Kansas City, Kansas. Unto Mr. and Mrs.
Snyder have been born four children, namely: Elsie Ann, who is now a student in
the high school; John H., Mark B. and Mildred Auburn, who are also in school.
The family resides upon one of the fine farms of Atchison county and the
property has been acquired entirely through the efforts of Mr. Snyder, whose
life has been a busy and useful one and whose success in business is the merited
reward of his own labors. He gives his political support to the Republican
party, but has never been an aspirant for office. He and his family attend the
services of the Lutheran church and he is a member of the Ancient Order of
United Workmen.
WILLIAM STERTON
More than three decades ago William Sterton took up his permanent abode in
Grasshopper township, Atchison county, and none of the citizens are more
genuinely respected. He is one of the native sons of Canada, his birth having
occurred December 22, 1827. in the village of Wellington. His father, James
Sterton, was born in Scotland and was married, in that country. to Janet
Crichton. Ten children were born to them, namely: Dove, Elizabeth, Christiana,
John, William, Janet, James, Margaret, Joseph and Alexander. The father was
seventy-six years of age at the time of his death. He was a member of the
Episcopal church and was highly esteemed by all who knew him.
In his boyhood William Sterton had very limited educational advantages. The
schools of that early day, in the new and sparsely populated district where he
lived, were poor in quality and of a pioneer description. Often the teacher was
obliged to cook a meal or two for his pupils, as sudden storms sometimes
rendered roads impassable. From his youth Mr. Sterton has devoted his energies
chiefly to agriculture and by hard, honest labor has won a livelihood for
himself and large family. Beginning without capital, save a good constitution
and an ambition to succeed, he has amassed a considerable amount of property. In
1868 Mr. Sterton concluded to try his fortunes in Kansas and from that day until
the present he has been occupied in farming here. He owns two hundred and
twenty-four acres of rich land, all of which is kept under cultivation. As the
years rolled away he made substantial improvements, including a good house,
barns, fences, orchards, shade trees and everything comprising a modern
homestead.
For more than twenty years Mr. Sterton has officiated as a member of the local
school board and for four years has been one of the trustees. Politically he is
affiliated with the Democratic party'. In his fraternal relations he is a Mason,
his membership being with Huron lodge.
When twenty-eight years of age Mr. Sterton married Isabella Ellis, who also was
a native of Canada. She was one of the children of Richard and Elizabeth
(Morley) Ellis, both of whom were natives of Yorkshire, England. The father died
when seventy-five years of age and the mother attained the extreme age of
ninety-five. They were consistent members of the Episcopal church. Their
children were named as follows: George, John, William, Thomas, Mary, Esther,
Frank, Richard, Moses, Isabella and Charles. Of the children born to Mr. and
Mrs. Sterton three have been summoned to the better land. One daughter,
Isabella, died in infancy. Elizabeth, wife of James Andrews, of Lancaster
township, died in 1888, leaving six children. James C. died at the age of thirty
years and left widow and one child to mourn his loss. Of the living children of
our subject, Dove resides near Guthrie, Oklahoma. John and George are assisting
in the management of the old homestead. William and Joseph are enterprising
farmers of this township, Mrs. Janet Wilson resides in this locality. Charles
and Anna Belle, wife of A. Russell, are residents of Knoxville, Arkansas. All of
the children were given as good educations as their parents could afford and
were trained in the duties of citizenship.
EZRA BATES STEWARD
Too much credit cannot be given to the pioneers who suffered hardships that
words poorly portray, and, as has often been said of the founders of this great
nation. "they builded better than they knew." Kansas, whose early days were
especially troublous, was blessed with a host of brave, hardy souls, who never
faltered in the great work of making this one of the foremost trans-Mississippi
states. Among this honored band of patriots is enrolled the name of Steward, and
below is subjoined a review of the lives of our subject and his father, both
prominent in Atchison county.
They come from good old New England stock, the paternal grandfather of E. B.
Steward having been Captain Ezra Steward, a native of the Green Mountain state.
He came to Kansas in 1855, accompanied by his family, and from that time to the
present they have been closely identified with the progress of this section of
the Union. William, father of E. B. Steward, was born in Ohio and reared and
educated in Indiana. For many years he was sheriff in Jasper county, and held an
influential place in the community. While living in the Hoosier state he married
Sarah Yeoman, (daughter of Stephen Yeoman, who died in Indiana. She was a native
of Indiana and grew to womanhood there. In 1855 William Steward came across the
plains with a team and wagon. and passed through Atchison when that town
comprised but four houses. He took up his abode in the northwestern part of
section 13, Kapioma township, and passed the remainder of his life there, dying
when forty-two years of age. His wife, who died in 1874, was in her forty-eighth
year. Both were members of the Methodist church. They had but one son and one
daughter, Hannah, wife of James Thomas, of this township.
Ezra Bates Steward was born in Jasper county, Indiana, in 1847. When he was
seven years of age he came to this county, and here he attended the district
schools. which, as might be expected, were of very poor quality, as compared
with those of the present day. It was, moreover, his privilege to be a student
in the Monrovia school for one year. Only a few houses could be seen in the
course of a long day's ride through the county, everything being wild and
desolate, bearing little promise of the brilliant future in store for it. On his
father's farm he mastered agriculture in its various details. As a result of
this industry and good business principles he now owns one hundred and ten acres
of well-improved land in Kapioma township. A comfortable house and barns, as
well as other accessories of a modern homestead, are upon the place. Mr. Steward
also owns a house and lot in Muscotah, and a house and two lots in Effingham,
and a house and two lots in Horton, Kansas.
In the centennial year Mr. Steward married Jettah Streeter, a native of
Illinois. She was educated in the higher branches of the Leavenworth Normal
School, and was a popular and successful teacher prior to her marriage. Her
father, the Rev. William H. Streeter, was an earnest worker in the Methodist
denomination. He was born and educated in Albany, New York, and after living in
Illinois for some time came to Kansas in 1870, locating in Nemaha county. His
wife was a Miss Hannah Van DeCar before her marriage. They were the parents of
nine children, of whom six survive. Hattie Adams is a resident of Rockford,
Illinois; Harvey Streeter lives in Holton, Kansas; Frank makes his home in
Muscotah, Kansas; Mrs. Minnie Bradey lives in this township, and Charles lives
in Effingham. The four children of our subject and wife are: Mabel S., wife of
Lloyd Petree, of Effingham; William E., Virgil Leroy and Bertha H.
Politically Mr. Steward is a Republican, and has served for several terms as a
member of the local school board. He is a loyal member of the Advent Christian
church, and not only works in the church and Sunday school, but also sings in
the choir and aids in every department.
JOHN STEWART
As is the case with the majority of the successful business men of America, John
Stewart, a leading citizen of Kapioma township, Atchison county, has been the
architect of his own fortunes, and his example is well worthy of emulation by
the ambitious young man of today.
He comes of the stanch Scotch-Irish stock which has furnished the brains and
brawn to many of the most notable achievements of the Anglo-Saxon race. His
father, John Stewart, was born on the Emerald Isle, but came to America and
chose for a bride Mary Leight, of Pennsylvania. For many years he was engaged in
farming in the Keystone state, and continued actively occupied in his accustomed
labors until shortly before his death, at the age of three-score years and ten.
His wife survived him, being seventy-seven years old at the time of her death.
They were members of the Lutheran church, and were highly esteemed and loved by
those with whom they were associated.
John Stewart of this sketch is one of six children. His sister, Rachel, is the
wife of William Dewait, and his youngest sister, Elizabeth, is the wife of John
Mcintyre. Sarah and Mary Isabella are deceased. Guthrie and Joseph are residents
of Pennsylvania, as are the surviving sisters, with their families. Joseph, of
Johnstown, lost all of his property in the dreadful flood which swept away much
of that thriving place several years ago, and narrowly escaped with his life.
The birth of our subject took place in Armstrong county, Pennsylvania, July 21,
1839. After obtaining a district school education, and mastering the various
departments of agriculture, he began earning his independent livelihood, and had
a competence ere he married. After that event the young couple spent several
years in Pennsylvania, and in 1882 concluded to try their fortunes in Kansas. At
first Mr. Stewart bought one hundred and twenty-two acres of land, and within a
few years added to it a tract of three hundred and sixty-five acres. Later he
sold one hundred and twenty acres of this, and in its stead bought two hundred
acres of more desirable property. His present homestead is justly regarded as
one of the best in the county, and the comfortable house, barns, corn-cribs and
modern farm machinery plainly show that the proprietor is thoroughly progressive
and business-like. He raises a high grade of cattle and horses, and does the
most extensive business in live stock in this vicinity. In his political creed
he is a Democrat.
When he was thirty years of age the marriage of Mr. Stewart and Sallie McSwaney
took place in Pennsylvania. She is a daughter of Byron McSwaney, and is of
Scotch-Irish descent. Three of the four children of our subject and wife are
married and have comfortable homes of their own. Mary, Wife of Joseph Snyder,
resides upon a farm situated about one mile east of Effingham. Margaret is the
wife of Fred Wirt, of Benton township, and Lillie is the wife of Peter Muller,
of Benton township. Jimmie, the only son of our subject, is at home, and aids in
the management of the large farm, which necessarily requires much care and
attention.
HON GEORGE STORCH
For more than three decades the subject of this sketch, Hon. George Storch, has
been identified with Atchison, Kansas, figuring in its business and political
circles, and occupying a high place in the esteem of his fellow citizens.
Mr. Storch is a native of Bavaria, Germany, and was born February 22, 1835. and
is a son of Thomas and Margaret Storch, who lived and died in Germany. His
father being a farmer, George was reared to farm life, and received the usual
educational advantages extended by the common schools of his native land,
attending the same until his sixteenth year. In 1853 he emigrated to the United
States, making the voyage in a sailing vessel from Bremen to New Orleans, at
which port he landed after ten weeks on the ocean. From New Orleans he went by
steamboat to St. Louis, Missouri, and thence to Casco, in that state, where he
engaged in farming. In the spring of 1859 he came to Atchison, Kansas. At that
time, however, he remained only a brief period. Going to Kennekuk, Kansas, he
opened a general store and was engaged in merchandising at that place until
1867, when he disposed of his stock and store. Since that year he has been a
resident of Atchison. Here he embarked in the real-estate and banking business.
He was one of the leading organizers of and chief stockholders in the German
Savings Bank, of which be was elected president. He served as president of this
bank until its stock was purchased by the United States National Bank, and of
this bank also he was made president, and filled the office until the concern
went voluntarily into liquidation. Since then he has devoted his time chiefly to
the real-estate business, dealing in both city and farm property, and handling
annually a large amount of business.
Mr. Storch's political career has covered a number of years and includes valued
service in various official capacities. He is a stanch Republican, and it is at
the hands of this party that he has received his official honors. He was county
commissioner two terms; four years was a member of the school board, one term of
which he was president; and was a member of the Atchison city council, being
president of the council one year. Three terms he served as city treasurer. In
1864 he was elected to the state legislature as a representative from his
district, and again, in 1875, be was honored with the same office. During his
last term in the legislature he was a member of the ways and means committee.
Mr. Storch was married, in 1859, to Miss Elizabeth Fox, a native of Evansville,
Indiana, and a daughter of John Fox and his wife Elizabeth. The children of this
union are two, a daughter and son, Louisa J. and George H., the latter being now
associated in the real-estate business with his father. The daughter is the wife
of Oscar Lips, of Atchison, and they have one child, Charles Lips.
CLARENCE M STREEPER
Clarence M. Streeper, one of the retired farmers of Atchison, Kansas, has been a
resident of this state since 1871, and for the past six years has been living
quietly at his present home. Mr. Streeper is a native of New Jersey, born in
Cumberland county, June 3, 1824, a son of Christopher and Catherine (Brooks)
Streeper. The Brooks family were among the early settlers of New Jersey, and
Almeron Brooks, the father of Mrs. Streeper, was a Revolutionary soldier. Her
mother was before marriage Sally Champness.
Clarence M. Streeper passed his youthful days in Bridgeton, New Jersey, and
there received a common-school education. His mother having died when he was ten
years old, he went to live with a cousin of his mother, Joseph Nelson, with whom
he remained until grown. At the age of sixteen young Streeper commenced learning
the trade of carpenter, at which he served a three-years apprenticeship, and
after completing his trade he went to Salem county, New Jersey, where he worked
as a journeyman carpenter. Later he purchased a farm, and for some time was
engaged in farming there. In 1871 circumstances favored his removal west and he
took up his abode on one hundred and twenty acres of land in Shannon township,
Atchison county, Kansas, where he carried on agricultural pursuits until 1893.
That year he retired from farm life and has since maintained his residence in
Atchison, devoting his time and attention to looking after his property. Besides
his comfortable home, he owns other city property.
Mr. Streeper was married, in 1847, to Miss Rebecca Du Bois, of Salem county, New
Jersey, a daughter of Samuel and Mary (Johnson) Du Bois, and the fruits of their
union are the following named children: Rallin F.; Howard M.; Alice, now Mrs.
Woody; Catherine, the wife of Charles L. Duffield; Everett; and Emma the wife of
a Mr. Van Leer. At this writing there are eight grandchildren and one
great-grandchild in the family. Mr. Streeper and his wife are members of the
Baptist church and fraternally he is identified with the I. O. O. F. He is a
Republican in politics and has given his support to this party ever since he
cast his first vote, for John C. Fremont. One term he served as a member of the
city council.
JOHN SWARTZ
There are men in Kansas surrounded by all evidences of comfort and competency,
men who can stand on the porches of their own houses and contemplate many broad
acres that are their own, who can look back through a comparatively brief period
to the days of small things. Those Doniphan county farmers whose lives there
date back to "war times" are on the list of old settlers, and are respected as
pioneers who have much valuable local history in their mental storehouses. Of
this class is John Swartz, who came into the county almost forty years ago and
has had a part in bringing about its development and has profited materially
thereby. An account of his early settlement and experiences and of his later
successful life will be found interesting by any one who has thought much of
what the people of Kansas owe to those who were pioneers within her borders.
John Swartz, one of the leading farmers of Union township, Doniphan county, was
born May 27, 1837, in Fayette county, Pennsylvania, a son of Christian Swartz, a
native of Germany, who came to the United States early in life and was a laborer
at such work as his hands found to do. For a time he pounded up rock on the
national pike during its construction from Baltimore west. He finally located in
Westmoreland county, Pennsylvania. where he succeeded so admirably as a farmer
that it would seem that he must have been exceptionally adapted to that
vocation. Later he was one of the well-to-do men of Fayette county in the same
state. He married Elizabeth Zeitlinger and both are buried in the county last
named. The children of Christian and Elizabeth Swartz were: Susan, the wife of
Hugh Laughlin, of Fayette county, Pennsylvania; John; Christian, now dead, who
was a soldier in the Union army during the civil war; Elizabeth. who lives on
the old Pennsylvania homestead; Joseph, who also lives at the old home; and
James, of Wewoka, Indian Territory.
In 1860 John Swartz came west to Kansas, taking boat at Pittsburg. Pennsylvania,
and making the trips to Kansas entirely by water and located in Doniphan county.
Later he moved to Atchison county, where he remained eighteen months, and then
returned to Doniphan. where he has since resided. While a resident of Atchison
county he made a few trips across the plains, freighting from Atchison to
Denver. He belonged to the poorer class of settlers and his cash was exceedingly
limited. He managed to get enough money together to make the proper payments on
his first real estate purchase and at the same time "keep the wolf away from the
door" of his household. During the first few years of their life in Kansas his
family had few luxuries. At times it was considered that a family who had an
abundance of the necessaries of life was exceedingly fortunate, yet, now that
the pioneer days and their experiences have passed into history, the old
settlers make many cheerful, even amusing, references to them. As Mr. Swartz
prospered in the years following the early settlements he enlarged his
undertakings, adding to farming the feeding and handing of stock. This he is
still engaged in, and with his four hundred and forty acres of land to look
after and cultivate he is a busy man.
Mr. Swartz belonged to Colonel Treat's regiment of state militia and was at
Kansas City during the civil war, when General Price made his sortie in that
direction, and is a living witness of the shameful behavior of that
"dress-parade" officer on that occasion, when he refused to put the regiment
under federal authority by crossing the state line in the direction of the
enemy. Mr. Swartz is a Republican and takes an active part in county politics,
attending conventions as a delegate, in which capacity he aided in the
nomination of Governor Stanley at Hutchinson in 1898. He served Union township
as its first treasurer and has been for twenty-five years a member of the school
board. He is enthusiastic in his support of the new idea of national expansion
and has no patience with those who he claims seek to put stumbling blocks in the
way of our progress as a people and retard the advancement of freedom and
civilization. He gives some of his time to political work, because he believes
he owes such labor to his fellow men, but has never sought office for himself
and has accepted it only at the urgent solicitation of his townsmen. As a man of
affairs he has demonstrated that he possesses ability of a high order. He has
had much to do with many matters of importance and was called to the
vice-presidency of the Bank of Huron, a position which he has filled with great
credit and to the satisfaction of all concerned.
Mr. Swartz was first married, in February, 1860, to Margaret Blair, a daughter
of Alec Blair, whose son, John L. Blair was one of the early and successful
farmers of Doniphan county. Mrs. Swartz died in 1875 and in 1877 Mr. Swartz went
to Fayette county, Pennsylvania, and married Mary Krepps. Mr. Swartz's children
are: Christian, of Brown county, Kansas, who married Jennie Eylar and has two
children, named John and James; Alexander B., who married Polly Denton and has a
daughter Lucy, and lives on the homestead; James; Lizzie; and Ida, the wife of
John Steele, of De KaIb, Missouri, whose children are Oliver and an infant.
J A SYMNS
Sunny Slope farm is one of the most desirable country seats in Doniphan county.
It is pleasantly located in Wayne township, near the town of Brenner, and
comprises one thousand four hundred and twenty-five acres of land. It became the
property of J. A. Symns in 1875, and since that time he has carried on the work
of cultivation and improvement until he is to-day the owner of one of the model
farms of the community. In 1890 he erected thereon a beautiful residence, at a
cost of six thousand dollars. This is one of the finest homes in the county, and
in keeping therewith are substantial barns and commodious outbuildings,
furnishing shelter to grain and stock. The owner is extensively engaged in the
raising of cattle, and his business interests are so ably conducted that a good
income naturally rewards his labors. The beautiful home, well-tilled fields and
substantial improvements of the Sunny Slope farm are an indication of the
careful supervision of the owner, who is accounted one of the most practical and
progressive agriculturists of northeastern Kansas. He has been a resident of
this section of the state since October, 1865, and those who have known him
longest are among his best friends, -- a fact which indicates an honorable
career.
Mr. Symns is a native of West Virginia, his birth having occurred in Monroe
county, on the 22d of January, 1839. He is of Scotch-Irish lineage and traces
his ancestry back to Ireland. His father, John Symns, was born on the Emerald
Isle, and after crossing the Atlantic married Elizabeth Peters, a native of
Peterstown, West Virginia, which place was named in honor of the family of which
she was a representative. Her father, Christian Peters, was a West Virginia
planter. John Symns also owned a plantation in that state, although by trade he
was a carpenter and wheelwright. In politics he was a Whig and had great
admiration for Henry Clay and the policy advocated by that statesman. He
belonged to the Presbyterian church, and died at the age of eighty-five years,
on the old family homestead. His wife, also a consistent Christian and a member
of the church, passed away at the age of ninety seven years. In the family of
this worthy couple were eight children, -- five sons and three daughters: Mrs.
Catherine Lucas, deceased; George W., who has departed this life; Mrs. Margaret
Shumate, who also has passed away; William P.; A. B., a wholesale merchant of
Atchison; Joe; Samuel, who runs the old farm in West Virginia; and Mary E., who
has been called to her final rest.
Upon his father's farm J. A. Symns spent his boyhood days, the primitive
district schools of the neighborhood affording him his educational privileges.
In early life he followed farming, and when the civil war broke out he put aside
all personal considerations and fought in defense of his loved southland, in
accordance with the training which he had known and honored from boyhood. He
served for three years and ten months. He participated in the battles of
Winchester, Fisher's Hill and Cedar Creek, and on one occasion his horse was
shot under him, but he was not wounded.
After the war Mr. Symns engaged in clerking for A. B. Symns, a wholesale grocer,
and in 1869 came to Doniphan county, where six years later he purchased his
present farm, Sunny Slope. He has since devoted his energies to agricultural
pursuits -- with what result may be ascertained from a glance at the attractive
home. He was married on the 20th of May, 1869, in Doniphan county, to Miss Mary
C. Shanks, a lady of refinement and culture and a daughter of F. A. Shanks, for
some years a resident of St. Joseph, Missouri. Mr. and Mrs. Symns have had five
children, namely: John, whose home is at Straight Creek, in Jackson county,
Kansas; Mary J., the wife of T. L. White, of Beloit, Kansas; C. M., at home;
Gertrude, who is a student in Bethany College, of Missouri; and Nellie, who is
yet with her parents. Mrs. Symns is a member of the Baptist church. Mr. Symns is
a supporter of the Democratic party, and is recognized as a leader in the ranks
of his locality and does all in his power to promote the growth and insure the
success of Democratic principles. As a citizen he is loyal to what he believes
to be for the public good, and in business life his honesty has gained him
widespread confidence.
WILLIAM P SYMNS
One of the extensive land owners of Wayne township, Doniphan county, is William
P. Symns, who owns one thousand acres of land in this locality. His possessions
have been acquired entirely through his own well-directed efforts, and his life
record indicates the truth of the saying that success comes not from talent but
results from industry, careful management and close application to business. He
has been identified with the development and progress of Doniphan county since
its pioneer days, at which time he came to Kansas and accepted a clerkship with
Thomas Kemper, who was proprietor of the first general mercantile store in this
section.
Mr. Symns is a native of Monroe county, West Virginia, and was born March 28,
1828. His father, John Symns, was born on the Emerald Isle, and was of
Scotch-Irish lineage. His ancestors were of the Presbyterian faith and were
people of high respectability. In early life John Symns crossed the Atlantic to
America, taking up his abode in Virginia, where he afterward married Miss
Elizabeth Peters, a native of the Old Dominion, which at that time comprised the
section of country that now forms the state of West Virginia. She was a daughter
of Christian Peters, and in honor of her family the village of Peterstown was
named. John and Elizabeth Symns became the parents of the following children:
Mrs. Catherine Lucas, who is now deceased; George W., who has also passed away;
William P.; A. B.; Joe; Sam, who resides in Virginia on the old family
homestead; and Mary E., deceased. The father learned the trade of a carpenter
and wheelwright in early manhood, but during the greater part of his business
career was known as a Virginia planter. He died on the old family homestead at
the age of eighty-five years, and in his death the community lost one of its
valued citizens. He and his family were members of the Presbyterian church, and
in politics he was a Whig and an ardent admirer of Henry Clay. His wife,
surviving him, passed away at the very advanced age of ninety-seven years. She
was an earnest Christian woman, a faithful wife and mother and a true friend.
William P. Symns, whose name introduces this review, was the fifth in order of
birth in the family and the third son. He pursued his education in the old-time
log school house, which was lighted with greased paper windows. He conned his
lessons while sitting on an old slab bench, while beside him lay his few books,
for there were no desks. His training at farm labor, however, was not meager,
and he remained at home till the spring of 1856, when he came to the West, first
locating in St, Louis. Subsequently he made his way to St. Joseph, Missouri,
reaching his destination after seven days of travel. He remained at that place
for a short time and then came to Wathena, Doniphan county. The following year
he went to Doniphan with his brother, A. B., who is now a wholesale grocer in
Atchison. During the Civil War he entered the Confederate service, under Captain
Lanney and General Jubal Early, serving until the cessation of hostilities. When
peace was restored he returned home and secured a clerkship in St. Joseph,
Missouri, where he remained for some time. He was afterward manager of a wagon
train en route for Montana, and while thus engaged had the misfortune to break
his ankle, which caused him several weeks of severe suffering. In 1867 he
returned to Doniphan county, where he has since been identified with
agricultural interests. His industry and untiring labors brought to him a good
income, and as his financial resources increased he added to his real-estate
investments until he became the owner of about one thousand acres of land in
Doniphan county. He has erected thereon a fine modern residence, good barns and
other necessary outbuildings, and has to-day one of the model farms of the
county.
In 1872 Mr. Symns was united in marriage to Miss Maria L. Kent, a native of
Missouri, and their union has been blessed with five children, namely: William
P. and Andrew B., at home; Perry K., who is a student at Manhattan, Kansas;
Belle and Elizabeth, who are still under the parental roof. Mr. Symns, realizing
the importance of education in the affairs of life, has given his children
excellent advantages in that direction. The eldest son is a graduate of Midland
College, of Atchison, while the second son is a graduate of Manhattan College,
of the class of 1888, and the third son is now pursuing his studies in that
institution. Having long been a resident of the county, Mr. Symns is widely
known, and he is a most progressive and public-spirited citizen, advocating all
commendable improvements and lending an active support to all measures for the
public good. He votes with the Democracy, but has never been an aspirant for
office, preferring to devote his energies to his business interests, in which he
has met with most creditable success. In all trade transactions he is thoroughly
reliable, and has thereby won the confidence and good will of those with whom he
has been brought in contact.
FRANK J THOMAS
Frank J. Thomas, president of the Thomas Fuel & Ice Company, of Atchison,
Kansas, is at the head of an industry which represents the investment of a large
sum of money and which is of importance to the city in which it is located. The
Thomas Fuel & Ice Company's plant was erected in the fall of 1898, at a cost of
thirty thousand dollars, its location being near the railroad tracks in order to
secure the best shipping facilities. The building is a brick structure, 90 x 90
feet, with a solid stone foundation, and with a floor capacity of fifty thousand
square feet. Its ice-making capacity is twenty tons of ice in twenty-four hours.
The water supply is from an artesian well, the water being boiled and filtered
before it goes to the freezing tanks, and the ice is clear as crystal, perfectly
odorless and free from microbes. The plant throughout is supplied with the
latest and best machinery, from twelve to fifteen men are employed and three
teams are kept constantly in use. Besides the ice product the company handles a
large amount of fuel and they also have a large cold-storage business, handing
fruit, meats, butter and eggs and in fact all kinds of produce. The above
business was established in October, 1898, having been organized by Frank J.
Thomas, T. C. Thomas and Ralph Harris, and the officers of the company are as
follows: Frank J. Thomas, president; Ralph Harris, vice-president, and T. C.
Thomas, secretary and treasurer.
Frank J. Thomas, the president of the Thomas Fuel & Ice Company, was born in the
city of Leavenworth, Kansas. in 1868, and was reared and educated there. He
early began a business career and has worked his way steadily upward to the
position he now holds in the business world. He was married, in 1896, to Miss
Mabel Johnson, a daughter of the Hon. J. B. Johnson, judge of the circuit court
of Shawnee county, Kansas, later supreme master in chancery and now the receiver
of the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad.
T. C. Thomas, secretary and treasurer of the company, is a son of Dr. M. S.
Thomas, an early settler of Leavenworth, Kansas.
Ralph Harris, vice-president of the company, is a son of John Harris, a
prominent citizen and one of the early settlers of Leavenworth Kansas.
ALVA C TRUEBLOOD
Alva C. Trueblood is the city clerk of Atchison, where he has made his home for
twenty years. He was born in Salem, Indiana, a son of Dr. Joshua and Zilpha
(Arnold) Trueblood, who were natives of North Carolina, but were married in
Salem. The Truebloods, originally from England, had resided in North Carolina
for four generations. They were members of the Society of Friends or Quakers,
and, believing in the ardent anti-slavery views of that society, when the great
Northwest territory was opened up for settlement, they founded a large colony at
Salem, Indiana, where they located in 1815, one year before the state was
admitted into the Union. This settlement was afterward known as one of the
stations of the "underground railroad," and no person fleeing from slavery was
ever betrayed or refused assistance when he reached this community.
Alva C. Trueblood acquired a common-school education in his native town and also
attended a select school until sixteen years of age, when he entered upon his
business career as an employee in the office of the Salem Democrat, where he
remained for two years. On the expiration of that period he secured an interest
in the Salem Times and continued in the office of that journal until the
outbreak of the civil war. He had studied with deep interest the problems that
led to that sectional strife, and believing keenly in the authority of the
government at Washington to preserve the Union, he resolved that if an attempt
at secession was made he would enlist under the starry banner. At President
Lincoln's call for seventy-five thousand troops he joined the army, his
enlistment dating April 23, 1860, as a member of Company G, Thirteenth Indiana
Infantry, under Captain S. D. Sayler and Colonel J. C. Sullivan. The regiment
was sent to West Virginia and attached to General McClellan's command. He thus
participated in the battles of Rich Mountain, Cheat Mountain, Greenbrier and
Allegheny Summit. In 1862 he was sent to the valley of Virginia and participated
in the first battle of Winchester or Kernstown and all the campaigns under
General Shields. In July of that year the brigade joined the Army of the Potomac
at Harrison's Landing, but too late to participate in any of the battles in
front of Richmond. After the evacuation of Harrison's Landing the brigade was
sent to Suffolk, in which region it remained until the summer of 1863, when it
was sent to South Carolina and attached to General Gilmore's command, the Tenth
Army Corps, and assisted in the capture of the forts in Charleston harbor. In
the spring of 1864 this corps formed part of the Army of the James, under
General Butler, and participated in all the engagements between Richmond and
Petersburg. Part of this force, including the Thirteenth Indiana, was sent to
reinforce the Army of the Potomac at Cold Harbor, where it arrived June 1st and
participated in all of that memorable battle, and was then sent to make the
attack on Petersburg, where its term of enlistment expired. On account of
meritorious conduct while facing the enemy Mr. Trueblood was promoted to the
position of first lieutenant, and January 18, 1863, was made the captain of his
company, holding that rank when discharged on June 30, 1864.
On returning to Salem Captain Trueblood embarked in merchandising and was thus
connected with the business interests of his native town until April, 1880, when
he came to Kansas, locating at Atchison, and has since resided here. He was
married December 29, 1864, to Miss Harriet E. Allen, a daughter of Thomas Allen,
of Salem, Indiana. They have five children, namely: Albert A., of Sacramento,
California; Victor E., who resides in Kansas City, Missouri; Paul B., who is
living at Grand Island, Nebraska; Owen H., who is messenger of the Pacific
Express, and Nellie, who is now a Midland College student.
Mr. Trueblood has represented his ward in the city council, and in the spring of
1895 was elected city clerk and re-elected to that office in 1897 and 1899. He
has the distinction of receiving the largest vote ever cast for a city officer.
He is most efficient and faithful in the discharge of his duty and is very
earnest in administering the business affairs of his adopted city. Prominent in
Masonic circles, he holds membership in Washington Lodge, No. 5, A. F. & A. M.;
Washington Chapter, No. 1, R. A. M., and Washington Commandery, No. 2, K. T. He
also belongs to the Mystic Shrine and has filled all the offices of the lodge,
chapter and commandery. He was one of the first members of John A. Martin Post,
No. 93, G. A. R., and has served as its commander. His fellow men respect him
for his sterling worth, his loyalty to principle and his upright conduct in all
life's relations, and it is with pleasure that we present the record of his life
to the readers of this volume.
CHRISTIAN O TURKLESON
Kansas is pre-eminently an agricultural state and its rich products furnish an
important part of the food supply of the country. Agriculture is the most
ancient as well as one of the most honorable vocations to which man can direct
his energies, and in the majority of cases where men have become prominent in
other walks of life, it is found that their early years were spent upon the
farm. Mr. Turkleson, of this review, is one who is successfully engaged in
agricultural pursuits, in Wolf River township, Doniphan county, and by his
well-directed efforts he has become the possessor of a very valuable property.
He pre-empted a claim here in 1857, on section 21, township 3, range 20, and
since that time he has devoted his energies to the tilling of the soil, meeting
with a very creditable success.
As his name indicates, Mr. Turkleson is a native of Norway, his birth having
occurred near Christiansand in the southern section of the Scandinavian
peninsula, November 18, 1832. His father, Osul Turkleson, came with his family
to the United States in 1850, locating in Buchanan county, Missouri, but in 1852
went to Wisconsin, his death occurring in Manitowoc, that state, in 1874, at the
age of seventy years. His wife was Isgar Christiansen. and her death occurred in
Norway. Their children were as follows Turkle, deceased; Christian O.; Syvert,
deceased and Martha, who became the wife of S. Halverson, but both she and her
husband died in Wisconsin.
Mr. Turkleson, of this review, came to Kansas from Buchanan county, Missouri.
His residence in that state did not identify him with, or awaken his sympathies
for, the evils of the time leading up to the civil war; and when the strife
between the North and the South was inaugurated he chose the side of the Union
and enlisted in the Federal army, becoming a member of the Thirteenth Kansas
Infantry, under the command of Colonel Tom Bowen. He was mustered in at Atchison
and mustered out at Leavenworth. His service was on the border and he was
engaged in only two battles that are mentioned in history -- Cain Hill and
Prairie Grove; but was in many smaller conflicts with bands of the enemy, and
these frequently required as great bravery and daring as was demanded from those
who took part in the larger engagements of the war. He was at the front for
almost three years and then received an honorable discharge.
Mr. Turkleson was reared on a farm and throughout his entire life has been
connected with agricultural pursuits. He has devoted his energies so untiringly
to the work of the field that he has gained the confidence and respect of his
fellow men, and at the same time has won a high degree of prosperity. As his
financial resources increased he has added to his property from time to time
until he now has four hundred and twenty-six acres of valuable land under a high
state of cultivation and supplied with all the modern improvements and
accessories of the model farm. His life has been characterized by unremitting
industry and in that respect his example is certainly well worthy of emulation.
Mr. Turkleson was united in marriage to Miss Rachel D. Speak, and their children
are Lea, the wife of John Hobbs, of Doniphan county; Mary C., Oscar; Elizabeth,
a graduate of the Kansas State Normal, and now one of the successful teachers in
Doniphan county; Esther; Clarence R., who is now in the senior year in the
Kansas State Normal; and John.
Mr. Turkleson is recognized as one of the Republican leaders in this township
and has been honored with a number of local offices. He served one term as
county commissioner, retiring from office in 1888. He was associated on the
board with Cyrus Leland and Peter Manville, and during their incumbency they
procured a successful settlement of the memorable county-bond compromise
proposition. Mr. Turkleson has been three times elected township treasurer, and
his services as a member of the school board covers a period of twenty years.
His fidelity to duty is most marked, and in these offices he has been ever
faithful to the trust and confidence reposed in him. His residence in Doniphan
county covers a period of more than forty-two years, during which time he has
witnessed almost its entire development and has seen its wild lands transformed
into beautiful homes and farms, and in commercial, industrial, educational and
material lines the work of progress which has been carried forward. All measures
for the advancement and good of the community have received his endorsement, and
among the honored benefactors of the county he well deserves mention.
JOHN S TYLER
Among the earliest settlers identified with the development of Brown county and
its farming and stock raising interests was John S. Tyler, who is also a
representative member of one of the prominent families of the nation. Many of
its members have attained eminent positions in connection with politics and
other public affairs. He was born in New London county, Connecticut, November
16, 1825, and is a son of Henry C. and Harriet (Hyde) Tyler, also natives of the
Charter Oak state, where they were married and remained throughout their lives.
The ancestry of the family can be traced back to three brothers of the name of
Tyler who emigrated from Shropshire, England, in 1640, to America. They were
Job, Hopestill and Joseph Tyler, and there is a claim of a relation to John
Tyler, president of the United States. From the colonial epoch in the history of
our country down to the present time their descendants have figured
conspicuously in connection with many affairs which have aided in shaping the
policy of the nation. One of the brothers, Job Tyler, settled in Massachusetts.
He had a son, Hopestill Tyler, who was married in 1706 to Hannah Safford. One of
their children, James Tyler, was the father of General John Tyler, who married
Mary Coit and among their children was John Tyler, the grandfather of our
subject. General John Tyler and his wife, Mary Coit, were both natives of
Connecticut and were married there December 14, 1742. They had a numerous and
prominent family, including Mitchell; James, who died September 4, 1750; John,
who died May 19, 1752; Abigail L.; Olive, the wife of Daniel Coit; John, who was
born July 22, 1755; Lydia, the wife of Colonel Samuel Mott, and Abigail L., who
was the wife of Captain Nathaniel Lord. The, father of this family died July 4,
1804, in Connecticut, and his wife passed away in that state on the 11th of
November, 1801.
Brigadier-General John Tyler received his appointment from the general assembly
of the state of Connecticut, by which body he was made lieutenant of the Third
Company, or training band, of Preston, in the year 1752. In 1755, when the
general assembly of Connecticut decided to join with the colonies of
Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and New York in raising an army of
five thousand men to proceed against the French at Crown Point and erect a
fortress upon an eminence near the fort built by the French, John Tyler was
appointed by the assembly as the second lieutenant of the militia company to be
raised in his neighborhood for that expedition. He was assigned to duty in the
Third Company, and in 1756, when the assembly ordered another force of
twenty-five hundred men for the expedition, John Tyler was promoted to the rank
of captain and marched with the first companies against the French and Indians.
In 1755 he rendered faithful and important service in the official positions
which he filled and this experience proved to him an excellent training school
for service in the Revolution. When the colonies attempted to throw off the yoke
of oppression he was commissioned lieutenant-colonel, thus serving until May 1,
1775, when he was discharged. In 1776 he joined the army as a brigadier-general
and was one of the valiant defenders of colonial rights during the war which
brought liberty to the nation.
John Tyler, a son of Brigadier-General Tyler, married Mary Bordman, and they
became the parents of eight children, namely: Joseph C., Mary, Olive,. John,
Henry C., Dwight R., Thomas S. and Abby.
Of this number Henry C. Tyler became the father of our subject. He married
Harriet Hyde and they had two children: Lucy, the wife of Joseph Geist, and John
S. The mother died November 24, 1827, and the following year Mr. Tyler wedded
Tirza Moss, by whom he had four children, -- Mary B., Harriet, Olive and Henry,
who grew to mature years, -- and a son and daughter who died in infancy. The
mother of these children died September 18, 1864, and the father's death
occurred February 18, 1875. They were consistent members of the Congregational
church and the father was a leading and influential farmer in Connecticut, where
he spent his entire life.
John S. Tyler, of this review, was reared and educated in the state of his
nativity, remaining at his parental home until he had attained his majority. His
educational privileges were those afforded by the common schools and for one
winter he engaged in teaching in Connecticut. On leaving the east he made his
way to Dubuque, Iowa, where he worked in the lead mines for a short time and
then removed to Calhoun county, Illinois, where he was engaged in the lumber
business. Later he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land, upon which he
made some improvements, but in April, 1856, he sold that property and with a
team of horses came to Kansas.
After prospecting for some little time he located on Delaware creek, Brown
county, where he yet lives. He at first secured a squatter's claim of one
hundred and sixty acres, and when the land came into the market he entered it
from the government, thus securing his title to the tract. Upon the place he
built a log cabin and at once began the development of the farm. There were few
settlers in the locality and these lived along the streams where the timber was
growing. Their homes were widely scattered, but a spirit of hospitality existed.
Mr. Tyler had no trouble with the Indians and border ruffians, although
excitement waxed high at that time, when John Brown and "Jim" Lane, the noted
abolition leaders, were conspicuous in the county, and the latter owned a cabin
and fort in the township where Mr. Tyler still resides. Game of all kinds was
plentiful, but money was scarce; great hospitality existed and there was no
social distinction in that country; there was everything to be made and nothing
to lose, and the pioneers came with the determination of securing homes in this
new region. Mr. Tyler secured a tract of land and soon afterward began stock
raising. He did his trading at Iowa Point, thirty miles from his home, and there
went for his mail, but subsequently he traded at Atchison. During the civil war
he was an active member of the militia. In his farming and stock raising
ventures he met with success and, judiciously investing his capital in land, he
is now the owner of a valuable homestead of over seven hundred acres, in
addition to lands in other counties. His possessions altogether aggregate about
seventeen hundred acres. He has successfully carried on general farming and
raises and handles stock, buying cattle which he feeds and fattens for the
markets. The products of his farm are used in this way, and he often buys large
quantities. of grain for stock-feeding purposes. Usually he takes his cattle to
market himself, formerly selling in Chicago, but of late years in Kansas City.
He now keeps on hand a large herd of cattle and personally supervises his
business affairs, although he has reached the advanced age of seventy-five
years.
In June, 1866, Mr. Tyler was united in marriage with Harriet Chase, who was born
in Maine, October 18, 184o. She is a lady of culture and intelligence and before
her marriage was a teacher in the Kansas schools. Her parents were James and
Abigail (Trull) Chase, who were connected with prominent families of Boston. Her
father was a resident of Maine at the time of his marriage and in 1859 came to
Kansas. In the following year he brought his family, locating near Hiawatha. He
became one of the extensive farmers and stock shippers and later in life he
engaged in the lumber business in Hiawatha. His honorable business methods
commended him to the confidence and respect of the entire community, and his
death, which occurred April 22, 1878, was mourned by his many friends as well as
by his own family. His wife survived him until December 23, 1896. Both were
consistent members of the Baptist church. They had three children: Elbridge, a
farmer and stock and grain dealer, Mrs. Tyler, and Lewis E., who is living on
the homestead farm.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Tyler have been born four children: Augustus H., who died at
the age of twenty years; James C., who completed a course in the Ottawa
University and the Johns Hopkins University; Lois, the wife .of G. W. Haflich,
and John H., at home. He was born January 1, 1880, and is now practically the
manager of the home farm, being a young man of exceptional business ability.
Mr. and Mrs. Tyler hold membership in the Baptist church, in which he takes a
deep interest, and is now serving as a deacon. He is an earnest worker in the
Sunday school and has a life membership in the American Baptist Home Missionary
Society. In politics, he was formerly a Whig and now a Republican. He served as
county commissioner and in an early day listed the property of the county, but
has never sought office. In his business ventures he has been very successful
and has not only become one of the prosperous residents of Brown county, but is
also a respected citizen worthy of the highest regard.
HON RANSOM ABNER VAN WINKLE
Without question, the gentleman whose name heads this record is one of the best
known and most honored of the founders of Atchison county, Kansas. He is one of
the sterling pioneers, his arrival here dating back to 1855, ever since which
year he has been active in the promotion of everything of benefit to this
region. His accounts of the early days here and the experiences of himself and
old associates when Kansas lay on the western frontier line are replete with
interest, and, could they be presented in detail, would command the attention of
everyone who takes pride in the growth and progress of this state during the
past half-century. The Van Winkle family is of Knickerbocker stock of New Jersey
and New York, and for generations it has been noted for patriotism and every
good quality found in loyal citizens. The father of our subject was Micajah Van
Winkle, a native of North Carolina. He was a son of Abraham Van Winkle, who was
a brother of John Van Winkle, who served in the war of the Revolution. Michael
Van Winkle and his son John took an active part in the battle of King's
Mountain, under the command of Colonel Shelby. Micajah Van Winkle married Mary
Phillips, a native of Culpeper county, Virginia, and a daughter of Cornelius
Phillips, whose father was a wealthy planter. Ten children were born to the
worthy couple, namely: Ransom A., Alfred P., Thomas J., Elizabeth, Theresa,
Jesse, Rhoda Anne, Ephraim L., John S. and Mattie D. Their father by occupation
was a farmer. He died in Jasper county, Iowa, at the age of seventy-seven. His
wife died in the same county, aged seventy-four, in the same year. They were
both members of the Methodist church and were beloved by a large circle of
life-long friends.
The birth of Ransom A. Van Winkle occurred on November 25, 1818, in Wayne
county, Kentucky, and in that state he resided until eighteen years of age, at
which age he received an appointment from President Jackson as cadet to West
Point, where he remained two years. Becoming greatly afflicted with rheumatism,
he resigned his position there and went to the state of Illinois, where he
resided about five years. In 1843 Mr. Van Winkle married, in Morgan county,
Illinois, Louisa, daughter of Newton Cloud, who was a native of North Carolina.
Mrs. Van Winkle died four months after her marriage. Mr. Van Winkle returned to
Kentucky and remained a widower four years, when he was married to Mary S.
Cravens, of Russell county, Kentucky, on November 10, 1847. She was a daughter
of Dr. and Virginia B. (Smith) Cravens. Three children, girls, were born to
them, but none of them survived their birth twenty-four hours. They adopted two
boys, whom they raised to maturity. John Fielder is a citizen of Indiana and
Charles Castelline is a citizen of St. Joseph, Missouri.
In 1849 R. A. Van Winkle moved to St. Joseph, Buchanan county, Missouri, in
which county he resided six years, then came to Kansas, in 1855, but did not
bring his family until two years later, 1857, since which time Arrington,
Atchison county, Kansas, has been their permanent home. He acted as commissioner
of this county nine years, was justice of the peace sixteen years and postmaster
for fourteen years. In 1861 Mr. Van Winkle was honored by his friends electing
him to the Kansas legislature, and served to the full satisfaction of his
constituency during the stormy days of the early years of the civil war, from
1861 to 1863. Politically he has been identified with the Republican Party since
its organization until the last four years. Fraternally he has been a notable
figure in the Masonic order for about fifty years. He has assisted in the
organization of three lodges of that order one in Missouri and two in Kansas. He
is at present identified with the Muscotah Lodge, No. 116, F. & A. M.
CONRAD VOELKER
Conrad Voelker, who is engaged in general farming, was born in Bavaria Germany,
November 20, 1856, and is a son of Conrad and Margaret (Vaerns) Voelker, who
were also natives of Germany. The mother's death occurred in that land in 186o.
In the same year the father and his family emigrated to the United States,
landing at New York, whence they came direct to Atchison county, Kansas. The
father purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land in Shannon township, and
thereon devoted his energies to agricultural pursuits until his death, which
occurred February 12, 1888, in his sixty-seventh year. In the family were five
children, three having been born of the first marriage and two of the father's
second marriage.
Conrad Voelker was only four years old when he was brought to the United States,
and therefore almost his entire life has been passed in Atchison county, the
history of which is familiar to him from its pioneer days. He pursued his
education in its primitive schools and in the high school in Atchison. He
afterward returned to the farm and assisted his father until he had attained his
majority, when he rented land and began farming on his own account. With the
capital he acquired in this manner he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of
land in Shannon township and turned his attention to agricultural pursuits. In
addition to the raising of grain adapted to this climate he has carried on the
dairy business, selling milk to many customers in Atchison. He has one of the
best improved farms in his township, his fine dwelling of modern architecture
being supplemented by large barns and substantial outbuildings, which furnish
shelter for grain and stock. He keeps on hand a high grade of cows for dairy
purposes, and in both branches of his business he is meeting with desirable
success.
On the 21st of April, 1885, Mr. Voelker was united in marriage to Miss Jane
Miller, daughter of Frederick and Margaret Miller, of Shannon township, Atchison
county. They now have two sons, Frederick and Conrad. The parents are members of
the Lutheran church, of which Mr. Voelker is a liberal supporter. In politics he
is independent at local elections, casting his ballot for the men best qualified
for office regardless of party affiliations. Wonderful transformation has been
wrought in Atchison county since his arrival here; its wild lands have been
transformed into beautiful homes and farms, enterprising towns and villages have
sprung up, industries have been introduced, schools and churches have been built
and the work of civilization has been rapidly carried forward. Since attaining
to years of maturity Mr. Voelker has ever manifested a deep interest in all that
pertains to the public welfare, and has given his aid and co-operation to many
measures for the public good.
HON. BALIE PEYTON WAGGENER
Hon. Balie Peyton Waggener has been called the "favorite son" of Atchison,
Kansas, and certainly no one of the citizens is more widely known or more
popular. His prominent position as general attorney of the Missouri Pacific
Railway Company brings him in contact with all sorts and conditions of men,
while his own extensive law practice has made him acquainted with people all
over the state.
Mr. Waggener was born near Platte City, Platte county, Missouri, July 8, 1847,
and is a son of Peyton R. and Bressias S. (Willis) Waggener. His father was a
native of Virginia and an early settler of Missouri. His grandfather, Thomas
Waggener, also born in Virginia, held a major's commission in the war of 1812,
while his great-grandfather, James Waggener, was a soldier in the Revolutionary
war and was awarded a medal of honor for heroic deeds of valor. The
great-great-grandfather came over from England with Governor Spotsford. On the
mother's side the family was connected with the Garnetts, one of the first
families of Virginia.
Peyton R. Waggener was at the time of his death, in 1856, clerk of the county
court of Platte county. His wife, who is still living and makes her home in
Atchison, is now in her seventy-eighth year and is in the enjoyment of all her
faculties.
Balie P. Waggener spent his boyhood on the farm and obtained his education in
the common schools of Platte City. He was the second of four children and after
the death of his father assisted his mother in the care of the property until he
was eighteen years old, when he came to Atchison and entered the law office of
A. G. Otis and George W. Glick as a student. He was a bright youth and was
admitted to the bar June 10, 1867. In 1870 Mr. Waggener and Albert H. Horton
formed a law partnership, which continued until January 1, 1877, when Mr. Horton
became, by appointment, chief justice of the supreme court. The same year Mr.
Waggener and Aaron S. Everest formed a partnership and then the former became
known as a corporation lawyer. This firm were attorneys for the Gould interests
and they engineered the various deals which enabled the Missouri Pacific to
obtain a foothold in the west. Mr. Waggener, being young, energetic and
ambitious, rose rapidly in his profession and along in the '80s the Missouri
Pacific appointed him to be its general attorney for Kansas and Nebraska, which
position he still holds.
About that time Mr. Everest retired from the firm and James W. Orr became the
partner of Mr. Waggener. In 1888 David Martin became a partner, resigning from
the judgeship of the Atchison county district court. He retired in 1894 and the
following year was appointed to the chief justiceship on the resignation of
Albert H. Horton. The firm is now Waggener, Horton & Orr.
In addition to his duties as an attorney Mr. Waggener is interested in banking
and on the death of W. W. Hetherington was made president of the Exchange
National Bank, one of the strong financial institutions of Kansas, and devotes
considerable of his time to its interests. He has also found time to take a hand
in politics and in 1872 ran for attorney-general on the Greeley ticket, which
was defeated by something like thirty thousand majority. In 1876 he was chairman
of the convention that nominated John Martin for governor, and in 1880 was
chairman of the Democratic congressional committee of the first district. He has
been a delegate in most of the Democratic state and several of the important
county conventions and is recognized as one of the leaders of the party. He has
served the city of Atchison twice as mayor and once as city attorney. If he had
chosen a political career Mr. Waggener would have won success through his gift
as an orator. In the early part of his professional life he was famous as a
speaker and lecturer, audiences and juries alike falling captive to his
brilliant addresses. Of late years he has confined his public speaking to the
court room, greatly to the regret of his friends and admirers.
As a citizen Mr. Waggener takes first rank in Atchison. He spends his money
freely and aids every movement for the upbuilding of the town. His name is on
the list of every charity and the individual poor never appeal to him in vain.
He is public-spirited and through his efforts Atchison secured an electric car
system.
Mr. Waggener owns a handsome residence on North Fourth street which, besides
being replete with every comfort and luxury that wealth can give, shows evidence
of cultured taste and refinement. The third story is entirely devoted to books
and contains the most extensive private law library in the United States,
comprising fifteen thousand volumes. Among these will be found all the state and
territorial reports, and for some of the old southern reports he paid as high as
three hundred dollars per volume.
In his busy office down town, where a dozen people are employed, Mr. Waggener
finds plenty of work, but in this he delights and is never so happy as when his
hands are full. He also has branch offices in Topeka and in Lincoln, Nebraska.
With all his numerous duties he is a great "home man," and his wife and children
have ever held the uppermost place in his thoughts.
Mr. Waggener was married, in 1869, to Miss Emma Hetherington, a daughter of the
late William Hetherington, an Atchison pioneer. They have two children, William
P. and Mabel L. (Mrs. R. K. Smith), the latter residing in St. Joseph. W. P.
Waggener is a young man of exceptional ability. He was admitted to the bar when
nineteen years old and was married when he was twenty-two. He is general
attorney of the Kansas City Northwestern Railroad Company and one of the
assistant attorneys of the Missouri Pacific. He also has charge of his father's
private business and is the latter's inseparable companion and trusted
confidant.
A genial gentleman, a man of irreproachable character, just in his dealings with
everyone and a loyal citizen, Mr. Waggener is eminently deserving of the success
which has come to him.
THOMAS M WALKER
There is in the anxious and laborious struggle for an honorable competence and
the solid career of the business or the professional man fighting the every-day
battle of life, but little to attract the idle reader in search of a sensational
chapter; but for a mind thoroughly awake to the reality and meaning of human
existence, there are noble and immortal lessons in the life of the man who,
without other means than a clear head, a strong arm and a true heart, conquers
adversity, and toiling on through the work-a-day years of a long career, finds
that he has won not only wealth, but also something far greater and higher --
the deserved respect and esteem of those with whom his years of active life
placed him in contact. Such a man, and one of the leading citizens of Atchison,
is Thomas M. Walker, banker, capitalist and owner of extensive landed interests.
Mr. Walker was born in Owen county, Kentucky, in 1848, and is a son of Delville
and Lucinda Walker. He spent his boyhood days under the parental roof and was
educated by a private teacher. Entering upon his business career, he devoted his
energies to various pursuits until 1879, when he located in Alton, Osborne
county, Kansas, where he engaged in general merchandising, in which he continued
until 1884, doing a very large and profitable business. In that year he embarked
in the banking business, by founding the Alton Bank, of Alton, Kansas.
Subsequently he purchased the First National Bank at Osborne, Kansas, where he
is still engaged in business. He was made president of the institution, and
under his direction it has become one of the leading financial concerns in that
part of the state. Conservative, yet progressive, business methods are followed,
and the reliability of the president and stockholders insures a liberal
patronage. As his financial resources have increased, Mr. Walker has placed his
money in the safest of all investments -- real estate–and has extensive property
interests in Osborne county. He is the owner of a very large cattle ranch there
and also has one in Graham county, Kansas. The latter is supplied with water by
six small and deep lakes, while Eagle creek flows through his Osborne county
ranch. The large herds of cattle which he raises place him among. the leading
stock dealers of the state. He is also interested in other Graham county lands,
and so manages his extensive business interests that his capital is annually
augmented.
In 1882 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Walker and Miss Carrie Nixon, of
Chicago, a daughter of John and Matilda (McConnell) Nixon. Mrs. Walker was born,
reared and educated in Chicago, and is a lady of culture and refinement and also
possesses good business qualifications. Two children grace their union -- Thomas
Delville, who is a student in a private school in St. Louis, Missouri; and
Henrie O., who is a student at a private school of Atchison. Mrs. Walker takes a
lively interest in public affairs and is a lady of strong intellectual and
scholarly attainments. That Mr. Walker has attained to prominent position in
financial circles is due to his keen discernment and his sound judgment, which
is rarely, if ever, at fault. His laudable ambition has prompted him to put
forth earnest effort in his business career, and he has won a well-deserved
success.
WILSON M WALKER
Wilson M. Walker, the cashier of the State Bank of Effingham, was born in the
village of Shelocta, Indiana county, Pennsylvania, January 31, 1849, a son of
Alexander and Martha (Speedy) Walker, both natives of the Keystone state.
Alexander Walker was a carpenter and builder, which trade he followed for a
period of thirty years. His father was Robert Walker, who also was a native of
Pennsylvania. Of the maternal grandfather of our subject we record that his name
was Hugh M. Speedy, and that he was of Scotch descent, the family having been
transplanted in this country several generations ago.
Wilson M. Walker spent the first eighteen years of his life in his native state
and received his education in the district schools. At the age of fifteen he
commenced clerking in a general store, an occupation in which he was engaged two
years. In 1868 he came west to the state of Kansas, stopping first in the
village of Effingham, and soon afterward locating upon a farm a mile and a half
southwest of the town. He improved and placed under cultivation one hundred and
sixty acres of land, and carried on general farming and stock-raising
successfully until 1892, when he left the farm and came to town. Here he engaged
in the lumber business, in partnership with Gilbert Campbell, under the firm
name of Campbell & Walker, an association which continued until 1897. Mr.
Campbell was succeeded by. P. Killey, and the firm became Walker & Killey. With
extensive yards and sheds and carrying a large stock of lumber and all kinds of
builders' material, they did a large and constantly increasing business, but in
the fall of 1899 Mr. Walker sold his interest to Mr. Killey, and became cashier
of the State Bank. Mr. Walker has accumulated considerable property, and has
various interests. He first served as the vice-president of the State Bank of
Effingham for several years, and was then made its cashier. He owns and occupies
one of the finest residences in the city.
Mr. Walker has always taken an interest in public affairs. In 1888, while living
on his farm, he was elected as a Republican to represent his county in the state
legislature, and served through the session of 1889, being a member of several
important committees, including that on ways and means. He is prominent in
Masonic circles, being a member of both Washington Chapter and Washington
Commandery at Atchison.
He was married, in 1875, to Miss Lavina Green, of Atchison county, Kansas, who
had come here from her native state, Ohio. She is a daughter of Mark and Lucy J.
(Richards) Green. Mr. and Mrs. Walker have two children, a daughter and son,
Martha and Mark A., both at home.
WILLIAM S WALLACE, M D
The flourishing town of Effingham, Atchison county, has attracted to its
hospitable borders many a young man of ambition and enterprise, as well as
numerous wealthy and retired business men and capitalists. The reason for this
is obvious: it is because of the manifest destiny of the place one day to rank
among the most populous and progressive cities of the great state of Kansas.
Believing thoroughly in its future of promise, these citizens neglect no
opportunity to advance the new era, and their patriotism should find a
responsive echo in every heart. Among those who have cast in their fortunes with
us during the past decade is the gentleman whose name appears at the
commencement of this sketch of his life.
Dr. W. S. Wallace is a native of Washington county, Iowa, his birth having
occurred near the town of Washington, August 21, 1869. His father, William A.
Wallace, was born in Pennsylvania, whence he removed, in his early manhood, to
Iowa, and there met and married Maggie A. White, a popular and successful
teacher of Washington county. They became the parents of three sons and four
daughters, and to each they gave excellent educational advantages and home
training. The father was one of the brave soldier boys of the Federal army
during the civil war, and for four years faithfully fought and suffered in the
defense of the Union. He first enlisted as a private of the Seventh Iowa
Regiment of Volunteer Infantry, and later was a sergeant in the Nineteenth Iowa
Infantry.
In his boyhood and youth, Dr. Wallace was a pupil in the public schools of his
native state, and there laid the foundations of his future knowledge. Deciding
that the healing art should be his life's work, he commenced the study of
medicine under the tutelage of Dr. C. D. Werley, of Pennsylvania, and later
entered Jefferson Medical College at Philadelphia. In that celebrated
institution he was graduated as a member of the class of 1893, and at once
entered upon his labors as a physician and surgeon. But little more than seven
years have passed since he opened an office in Effingham, but success has
attended him from the first, and to-day he possesses the respect and confidence
of the public. Extremely conscientious and painstaking in the treatment of each
case committed to his skill, he never fails to win the esteem of the patient nor
to cheer and encourage each member of the afflicted family whom he is called to
visit.
In 1893, the year in which the Doctor embarked upon his professional career,
another event, none the less important, transpired, at Reading. Pennsylvania, as
his marriage to Miss Dora Gouker was solemnized. The young couple's attractive
home is brightened now by the presence of their two little sons, who are named
respectively William Earl and Paul G. The Doctor is a member of the Independent
Order of Odd Fellows and the Modern Woodmen of America.
WILLIAM H WARTERS
On both his father's and his mother's side the well-known resident of Shannon,
Atchison county, Kansas, whose name is above, is of that good, honest,
progressive and thoroughly patriotic English stock which has none so much to
make American citizenship all that is claimed for it by its most enthusiastic
admirers. The Englishman may never forget that he is an Englishman, but,
transplanted to our soil by emigration or by birth, he never forgets that he is
also an American and his loyalty is never shaken or discredited.
William H. Warters is a son of Luke and Caroline (Aldroyd) Warters, and was born
in Morgan county, Illinois, November 4, 1856. Luke Warters was an Englishman and
a gentleman by birth and education. Circumstances made it appear desirable to
him to seek his fortune in the new world, and he came over to this country while
yet a single man and took up his residence in Illinois. He began his career in
Illinois as a farm laborer, and being steady, saving and industrious laid the
foundation early in life for a career of usefulness.
Luke Warters married Caroline Aldroyd, daughter of Sidney and Elizabeth (Stubbs)
Aldroyd. Her father was, like Mr. Warters, a native of England. The means of Mr.
Warters and his young wife were small when they began the battle of life
together. Indeed, they were limited to the stock necessary to the operations of
a small rented farm and the goods their modest home contained. They were located
in a productive portion of one of the best states in the Union and having from
early life cultivated habits of industry and economy, they laid by something
each year so that when they came to Kansas, the state of cheap homes, they were
enabled to bring with them the funds necessary to enable them to secure a
fertile farm. In 1878 they brought their effects to the finely-located farm
between Lancaster and Shannon, which is the best kept and most intelligently
operated along the road between the two towns. There Mr. Warters died.
Luke and Caroline (Aldroyd) Warters were the parents of two children: Elizabeth
A., wife of M. S. Mocraft, of Henry county, Illinois, and William H., the
subject of this sketch. His education was probably the most sadly neglected
feature of William H. Warters youthful life. He had the strength of body, the
mental vigor and the capacity for acquiring knowledge, but the opportunities for
doing so were few and remote. Nature frequently comes to the relief of one the
development of whose powers has thus been neglected, and provides him with good
judgment sufficient to meet the demands of the world as they are presented; and
so it has been with Mr. Warters, who has been equal to every emergency and who
by his native ability, made greater by reading and observation, has been able to
extract from life his full share of success and satisfaction.
Mr. Warters was twenty-one years of age when he began work upon his present
farm. In the past twenty-one years it has been wonderfully improved and
transformed, but not without great labor and much expense. It has been his
province to conduct the management of the business of the farm, in all its
branches and ramifications, and everything that should have been done seems to
have been done and done well. His most recent extensive improvement was the
erection of his handsome and commodious residence, built in 1896, a year in
which business was at a low ebb and stagnation, industrial and commercial, was
everywhere present and money was almost at a premium. Notwithstanding these
forbidden conditions Mr. Warters drew a few thousand dollars from his surplus
deposit and built his home.
Mr. Warters was married, in February, 1889, to Cora Keithline. Andrew Keithline,
his wife's father, was born in Pennsylvania and came to Atchison county many
years ago. By his marriage to Rose Warner he had two children: Gilbert Keithline,
of Huron, Kansas, and Mrs. Warters. Mr. and Mrs. Warters children are Bessie,
Andrew and Cora. Mr. Warters is a Democrat, but is in no way a political worker
or seeker for office, preferring to trust to the honesty and integrity of men
elected to transact public business, while he devotes his time to the farm and
other business interests. Like thousands of others of our citizens of English
parentage, he has noted with unbounded pleasure the tendency to an international
alliance between the land of his forefathers and the land of his birth. His
public spirit is of so pronounced a type that his participation in any movement
proposed for the benefit of the people of his town or county is taken as a
matter of course. He is an earnest advocate of good schools, believing that the
character of our government in future generations will be influenced by the
quality and extent of present educational facilities. He is helpful to churches
and to all charitable interests.
ROBERT WAUGH
Among the more recent arrivals in Brown county who have taken a prominent place
in the ranks of the leading farmers and representative citizens of the community
is Robert Waugh, who came to Mission township in 1888 and purchased the Judge
Clayton farm, a fine old country seat. Previous to his arrival here he was in
the employ of the Union Pacific Railroad twenty-one years. He is a native of
Canada, his birth having occurred near Toronto, in 1823. His father, William
Waugh, was a native of Scotland. and after arriving at years of maturity he
married Miss Pevy McDale, also born in the land of hills and heather. Having
become residents of Canada, they reared their son Robert in Toronto, where he
learned the machinist's trade. Later he found employment in the McQueen
Locomotive Works at Schenectady, New York. While employed there he was selected
to deliver the first two locomotives placed on the Great Western Railroad.
Subsequently he was made the chief engineer of the steamer Chief Justice Waite,
running between Toronto, Canada, and Lewiston. New York. This position he filled
for two years, when he accepted a position in the shops of the Niagara Falls &
Buffalo Railroad, now a part of the New York Central.
In 1854 he removed to Chicago and entered the employ of the Rock Island Railroad
Company as engineer, his run being from Chicago to Rock Island, and this
position he filled for fifteen years, when he accepted the position of foreman
in the Rock Island shops in Chicago. In 1885 he was deprived of his position on
account of his activity in the Society of Locomotive Engineers and his belief in
unions. He then entered the employ of the Chicago & Milwaukee Railroad Company,
and in 1867 he removed to Grand Island, Nebraska, where he secured a situation
with the Union Pacific Railroad Company, whose lines were extended to Ogden,
Utah. For twenty-one years he was the foreman of the shops of that road at Grand
Island and for two years was employed at Rollins, Wyoming, in the same capacity.
His long service indicates that he was capable, faithful and trustworthy
employee. He is a charter member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and
has been very active in promoting its works and welfare through nearly four
decades. He also joined the Trades Association. He owned a fine farm near Grand
Island, Nebraska, which is now included within the city limits.
As before stated, Mr. Waugh arrived in Kansas in 1888 and purchased the Judge
Clayton farm, which consisted of eighty acres, to which he has added until he
owns three hundred and twenty acres in one section. besides a valuable tract of
timber, consisting of twenty-five acres, which is located in another section.
His residence was erected at a cost of twenty-five. hundred dollars and the barn
was built at a cost of thirteen hundred dollars. Everything about the place is
kept in excellent condition. There is a modern windmill, good farm buildings and
all the accessories and improvements that indicate progress and enterprise. In
addition to the cultivation of his fields, Mr. Waugh raises a high grade of
Short-horn cattle and is one of the most successful breeders of cattle in his
township.
In 1863, in Chicago, Illinois, Mr. Waugh was married to Miss Mary A. Clark, a
native of New York. Their union has been blessed with the following children:
Willie, an engineer and machinist who was foreman of the shops at Salt Lake City
for a number of years, but is now in Kansas City; Mamie, at home; Sadie, the
wife of William Hampton, of Atchison, Kansas; and Oda, a teacher in the Willis
school. Mrs. Waugh, the mother of these children, died at Grand Island in 1880,
and Mr. Waugh has since married Miss Anna James, who was born and reared in
Canada. In his political views he is a Democrat and keeps well informed on the
issues of the day. His seventy-six years rest lightly upon him and he displays
the vigor and activity of a man yet in his prime. He is six feet high, well
proportioned and in his younger days he excelled in athletic feats. His
systematic physical exercise doubtless led to the excellent preservation of his
health to the present time. Financially and socially he is regarded as one of
the leading and popular men of the township, and he and his family have hosts of
warm friends here.
CALVIN B WEAVER
Calvin B. Weaver, of this notice, is another of those useful tillers of the soil
in Kansas who has the triple claim on the consideration of his fellow men of
pioneer, soldier and good citizen. He was a soldier in pioneer days and a
pioneer in war time, and he has been at all times honest, industrious,
energetic, patriotic and public spirited. Calvin B. Weaver, of Everest, is among
the best known men in Washington township and no resident of Brown county is
held in higher esteem. He was born in Switzerland county, Indiana, October 22,
1842, a son of David G. Weaver, who was born in Schenectady county, New York.
Our subject's grandfather Weaver and his wife emigrated from Switzerland to New
York state and from New York they came west and settled in Switzerland county,
Indiana, at a very early day. They reared a large family and died respected by
all who knew them.
David G. Weaver passed his years of usefulness in Switzerland county, Indiana.
He was a poor man, a renter, and was one of those most unfortunate of poor men
-- a poor manager. His wife, Elizabeth Campbell, was born in Cumberland county,
Pennsylvania, and died in 1894, the year following the death of her husband.
Their children were: Elizabeth C., wife of Henry Likely, of Switzerland county,
Indiana; Gershom M., of Brown county, Kansas; Mrs. Clara Long, who resides at
Adrian, Michigan, and is a widow; Calvin B.; Olive, who is Mrs. Robins and
resides in Lane county, Kansas; Ruby C., who married James Roop and is now dead;
Eliza, of Baker, Kansas; John L., of Whiting, Kansas; and Cassius M., who died
from the effects of army service in the One Hundred and Fortieth Regiment,
Indiana Volunteer Infantry.
Calvin B. Weaver was reared in the country. There was no school, worthy the
name, in the neighborhood, and if there had been he could not have been spared
from the farm to attend. He could scarcely more than read and write when he was
grown, and while in the army he was brought face to face with the fact that an
education was a positive necessity to one who would combat the world with any
degree of satisfaction. So after the war, when he was about twenty-three years
of age, he gained the permission of the school board and from the teacher of a
good school and recited at recesses and at noons and made such good progress
that after a few terms of such study he felt amply repaid for his decision to
get as good an education as he could under the circumstances.
In 1863 Mr. Weaver enlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Seventeenth Indiana
Volunteer Infantry. His company commander was Captain Hall and his regimental
commander was Colonel Thomas J. Brady. He was mustered into the service at
Indianapolis for six months, but was not discharged until more than eight months
had passed. After thirty days at home be veteranized by enlistment in Company G,
One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, for three months, but
served twelve months. In this company he was orderly sergeant. During his first
service he helped raise the siege of Knoxville and in his last term of
enlistment was in Kentucky and Tennessee doing guard duty along railroads.
Mr. Weaver spent the time intervening between his discharge and his advent in
Kansas in Switzerland county, Indiana. Concluding that there was no brilliant
prospect in that section for a working man who wanted to acquire a home and an
independence he set out for the west. He was a single man in search of a cheap
farm when he came into Brown county in the spring of 1869, and bought the wild
eighty acres which, improved, is now his beautiful home. Just before his advent
into the county, not having the funds with which to begin the improvement of the
land, he rented a farm in Atchison county. he says that his health and his hands
were all he brought with him to the state and, as a matter of course, with no
other agency at work for him, his progress was necessarily slow and not always
sure. He spent the first year working out by the day and in that way got the
money which insured him the equipment with which to farm. It was not until 1874
that he moved to his own farm, into his fourteen-by-sixteen box house, without
ceiling or plaster. When he got his wife, two children, a bed and cook stove
into this shanty it contained all his effects and was nearly full. Mr. and Mrs.
Weaver went resolutely at work, battling with nature and against unfavorable
circumstances to make ends meet in a financial way. He gathered all his corn,
for one or two years, at a single load, as a result of visitations by
grasshoppers and drought, but when this happened he supplied any deficiency by
working out in winter and brought his family and stock through until another
crop grew.
At one of the early public meetings held in Washington township -- the first
school meeting -- Mr. Weaver was in attendance. The object was to organize a
school district and get a school started. There were not enough pupils of a
school age to warrant the erection of a district, but by enrolling Mrs. Weaver
and her sister, who were then single and of age, the organization could be duly
effected. This was done and the district was organized and Mrs. Weaver was
elected a member of the board. When Mr. Weaver moved into the district he was
placed on the board and has been kept there continuously for a quarter of a
century.
In September, 1871, Mr. Weaver married Sarah M. Iles. Her father, Matthew Iles,
one of the early settlers of Washington township, located just across the road
from Mr. Weaver, where his widow still lives. Mr. Iles. was born at Lancashire,
England, and came to Brown county in the spring of 1869. He was one of the
useful and prominent men of his time. He married a daughter of Major William
Carmack. of Carthage, Kentucky. Major Carmack married Mary Washington Damron,
whose parents were Thomas and Elizabeth (Dowman) Ball. Thomas Ball was a first
cousin to General Washington's mother. Elizabeth Dowman's mother was Elizabeth
Portues, a sister of Edward Portues, bishop of London in 1706. Matthew Iles
children were: Dr. William A. Iles, of Urbana, Kansas, who, in the civil war,
was a soldier in the Thirteenth Regiment of Kansas Volunteer Infantry; Mary E.,
wife of William Dooley, of Fort Smith, Arkansas; Ellen, wife of Nelson W. Reece,
of Everest; John J., who married a Miss Piper and is now dead; Robert, a
prominent farmer of Atchison county; Martha A., who married C. W. Snodgrass, of
Denver, Colorado; Alice, who died in 1880; and Nicholas, of Atchison county.
Mr. Weaver is one of the prominent Republicans of, his township. He became of
age while in the army and says he was baptized in blood and could not by any
possibility be anything else politically. He is one of those veterans who, after
the war, were wont to say that they "voted as they shot." The conditions which
gave rise to that expression passed away long since and new national questions
have come before the people. During this period of change, from the
"reconstruction times" down to the present, when President McKinley's national
and colonial policy is under consideration, Mr. Weaver has never seen reason to
deviate from his party allegiance and he is as enthusiastic a Republican as
when, fresh from his service in the army, he cast his first presidential vote.
His standing as a citizen has always been unusually high and his public spirit,
often tried, has never been found wanting. He is liberal in the support of
religious and educational interests and is in every relation of life wholesouled
and helpful.
Mr. and Mrs. Weaver have had children named as follows Ruby, who died at the age
of sixteen; Raleigh T., an employee of the Rock Island Railway Company, at
Horton, who married Miss Harding; Effie E.; Jesse C.; Bertha A.; Chauncey I.;
Laura; and Fern V.
CHARLES W WELLER
Charles W. Weller, division master mechanic of the Missouri Pacific Railroad, at
Atchison, Kansas, was born in Summit county, Pennsylvania, April 3, 1852, a son
of Daniel and Susan (Shockey) Weller, both natives of the Keystone state. Daniel
Weller was in early life a farmer and later a miller. His last years were spent
in the state of Missouri, where he died in 1893. His widow survives him and
makes her home in Kansas City. The Weller family was well represented in the
Union army during the civil War, the father and three sons going to the front
and one of them losing his life in the service.
The father, Daniel Weller, was a member of the Tenth Ohio Cavalry. One son,
John, was in the Twenty-fourth Pennsylvania Cavalry and was captain of his
company. Another son, George, was in the First Michigan Cavalry, and the third,
Zachariah, was in the Ninth Ohio Cavalry and died while in the service.
Charles W. Weller spent the first eleven years of his life in his native state.
When he was eleven he went with his parents and other members of the family to
Bryan, Ohio, the county seat of Williams county, and it was in the public
schools of that place that the greater part of his education was obtained. His
railroad career had its beginning at the time his school days ended. Coming to
Armstrong, Kansas, he entered the employ of the Union Pacific Railroad Company
in 1862. With a natural bent for mechanics he applied himself in this direction
and soon became a skilled workman. He was given the position of fireman on a
switch engine, subsequently filled other responsible places and in 1880 was sent
to Denver, Colorado, where he took charge of the round house for the Denver,
South Park & Pacific Railroad, a position he occupied until 1885. Returning to
Kansas at that time he became general foreman of the M. K. T. shops at Parson,
where he remained three years, until 1888, since which time he has occupied his
present position at Atchison, that of division master mechanic of the Missouri
Pacific Railroad shops.
Mr. Weller was married, in 1874, to Miss Anna Reves, of Marshall, Texas, and
they are the parents of three children: Gertie M., Charles H. and Mattie L. In
the Masonic order Mr. Weller has taken the degrees of the blue lodge and
chapter, holding membership in Active Lodge, No. 158, F. & A. M., and Washington
Chapter, R. A. M.
CHARLES G WHEELER
From his earliest recollections Charles G. Wheeler, a popular and widely-known
citizen of Center township, Atchison county, has been identified with this
section of the state, its development and increasing prosperity. At various
times he has been honored with local positions of trust and responsibility and,
as is well known, he has always discharged the duties devolving upon him with
fidelity and excellent judgment.
His father, Joshua Wheeler, was born in the town of Olney, Buckinghamshire,
England, February 22, 1827, a son of George R. Wheeler, who was a watchmaker by
trade. At the age of seventeen years Joshua Wheeler bade adieu to the land of
his birth and sailed for the United States, where he believed that better
opportunities awaited him, and so it proved. Arriving here he spent several
years in New Jersey, after which he went to Illinois, where he married Maria
Reynolds, who also was born in Olney, England, and whom he had known from
childhood. She came to this country to marry him. In 1857 the young couple came
to Kansas, purchasing a claim in this township, and there they erected a log
cabin and proceeded to improve their property. They suffered numerous privations
and the hardships incident to pioneer life and in addition thereto the struggle
between the slavery and anti-slavery factions on this border rendered the lives
of the settlers insecure. Feeling waxing more intense men arrayed themselves
upon one side or the other, and Mr. Wheeler took a prominent part for the Union.
For many years he was an important figure in local politics, being a stalwart
Republican after that party's organization, and being chosen by his neighbors
and friends as their representative in the state senate. His useful life,
spanning nearly the allotted three-score and ten years of the Psalmist, came to
a peaceful close in 1896. Possessing a fine physique and weighing about one
hundred and eighty pounds, he commanded the respect of all who knew him and by
his frank, genial manner readily won friends. His widow, who was a true helpmate
throughout his early struggles and later perplexities, survives him and still
remains on the old homestead, now being in her seventy-eighth year. Two of her
children died in infancy and were buried in Illinois, and Addie, now Mrs. L. F.
Randolph, resides in Nortonville, Kansas.
Charles G. Wheeler was born at Farmington, Illinois, March 18, 1854, and ever
since he was three years of age he has lived in Kansas. His education was
obtained in the public schools here and on the old homestead he early learned to
make himself generally useful. After attaining his majority he commenced the
struggle for an independent livelihood and has succeeded so well that he now
owns three hundred acres in Center township. This property is kept under fine
cultivation and yields abundant crops in return for the judiciously expended
labors of the owner. He has made substantial improvements, including a pleasant
modern residence and other commodious farm buildings.
In 1881 Mr. Wheeler married Augusta Stillman, who was born in Albion, Wisconsin.
She was educated and reared in Illinois and her parents, Nelson and Rose
(Burdick) Stillman, now live in Nortonville, Kansas. Five children have been
born to Mr. and Mrs. Wheeler, namely: Mabel E., who is attending the high school
at Nortonville; Vernette A., Edwin L., Helen B. and Ernest R. The family attend
the Seventh Day Baptist church near their home.
In his political opinions Mr. Wheeler is a Republican. For five years he served
as the township treasurer and at present he is acting in the capacity of trustee
of the county high school. He belongs to several fraternal organizations,
including the Modern Woodmen of America and the Royal Neighbors. He is well
posted on all of the leading topics of the day.
HENRY L WHITAKER
Henry L. Whitaker, respected and honored as one of the sterling early settlers
of Atchison county, now makes his home in the thriving town of Lancaster, where
he has identified himself with all of its enterprises. Great changes have taken
place in this section of the west since he first beheld it and as the years have
rolled away he has energetically sought to perform his duty as a citizen and
patriot.
The birth of H. L. Whitaker took place in Massachusetts July 24, 1838. His
grandfather was a soldier in the war of 1812 and his father, Lyman Whitaker, a
successful merchant, died in 1852, aged forty years. He left Mrs. Emeline
Whitaker and three children, -- Henry L., B. F. and Fred. Subsequently the
mother went to Illinois with her sons, whom she reared with loving care and
wisdom. For a number of years she taught school and, being a woman of good
education and genuine business ability, made a success of the undertaking. Being
the eldest son much of the responsibility of the family fell to our subject in
his youth. His brothers both enlisted as orderly sergeants in the Union army
during the Civil war, -- B. F. in the Tenth Kansas Infantry, who was
subsequently promoted to a captaincy, and is a resident of Washington at the
present time; and Fred also lives in the west.
After completing his education in the common schools Henry L. Whitaker obtained
a position in a machine shop with Foster & Merriam. The western fever, which had
such a strong hold over the public during the '50s, took possession of the
young, ambitious man, and when an opportunity presented itself whereby he might
remove with his own team with Rev. Pardee Butler to this state he gladly
accepted it. Accordingly he made the long, tedious journey from Mount Sterling,
Illinois, across the state of Missouri, arriving here in December, 1856. Later
he returned to Illinois and in 1857 again came to Kansas, in order to secure a
claim of hand for his widowed mother. He had some trouble in doing this, as
"claim-jumpers" were numerous and everything here was in an extremely unsettled
condition. The so-called "border ruffians" were rampant, and for several years
the feeling between the slavery supporters and the abolitionists was intense.
Locating in Atchison county as a permanent resident, Mr. Whitaker began the
improvement of his land and for about a quarter of a century gave his exclusive
attention to agriculture. As the result of his labors he now owns four hundred
acres of valuable land, improved with well-built house and barns and other
needful accessories of a model country place of the period.
In 1881 Mr. Whitaker resolved to enter the mercantile field of enterprise and
for the ensuing nine years he was successfully engaged in running a hardware
store in Atchison. In 1890 he removed his stock to Lancaster and, in partnership
with his son, Harry, opened a hardware store there, where he is yet a resident
and business man. In his political views he is a Republican, actively interested
and fully posted in the great issues of the day. He has served as a justice of
the peace for twelve years and for a number of terms held the office of township
trustee. Socially he belongs to Lancaster Lodge, No. 355, I. O. O. F. Denver and
Laramie City were small mining camps when he first visited them and the progress
which the entire west has made within a few decades appears marvelous to him, as
to every one who has so closely watched its development.
The marriage of Mr. Whitaker and Harriet Merriam, a daughter of Salmon Merriam,
occurred in Warren county, Illinois, in 1857. She was born in Meriden,
Connecticut. and is the mother of nine children, namely: Lyman, of Grand
Junction, Colorado; Frank, of Nortonville, Kansas; Emma, the wife of Charles
Tate, of Pardee, Kansas; May, the wife of H. Berry, of Lancaster, Kansas;
Joseph, who is managing the homestead; Harry, a partner in the hardware
business; Hattie, the wife of Frank Hursh, of Blackwell, Oklahoma; John Todd,
who carries on a farm in Center township; and Salmon Arthur, also a member of
the hardware firm. Mrs. Whitaker, like her husband, is highly esteemed by all
who know her and is a member of the Methodist church.
C E WHITE
During the past twelve years this gentleman has been actively connected with the
business interests of Effingham, as a dealer in harness, leather goods and
vehicles of all descriptions, and has secured a very large patronage for a town
the size of the one in which he makes his home. Mr. White is a native of the
Sunflower state, his birth having occurred at Iowa Point, Doniphan county,
October 7, 1865, his parents being John and Christena (Heastan) White. His
father was a blacksmith by trade, and died in Vernon, Missouri, during the
boyhood of our subject.
The latter attended the public schools in his youth, and while in his minority
learned the harnessmaker's trade, which he has since followed. His close
application and diligence made him an excellent workman, and his goods,
therefore, find ready sale upon the market. Coming to Effingham in 1887, he
opened a harness-making establishment, and now occupies a two-story building, 40
x 40 feet, the first floor being used as his store and warehouse, while the
upper story has been converted into a pleasant suite of rooms in which the
family reside. He carries a large line of carriages, buggies and other vehicles,
together with harness and farm machinery of every sort. Throughout the
surrounding country he has a liberal patronage, his trade being exceptionally
large for a town the size of Effingham. His business methods are honorable, his
courtesy unfailing, and thus he has secured the public support.
Mr. White was married, July 12, 1893, to Miss Della Stetler, who was born in
Ohio, a daughter of John Stetler, of Atchison county. Mr. and Mrs. White are now
the happy parents of two sons, Donald and Herold. In his political views our
subject is a stanch Republican, and keeps well informed on the issues that
divide the parties. He has served in several township offices, and in 1896 was
elected mayor of Effingham, while at the present time he is serving as a member
of the city council. As an official he is slow in encouraging questionable
enterprises, never giving his vote until the matter has been well considered,
thus frequently bringing about the results of a great saving of the city's
money, while every substantial improvement at once calls forth his full sanction
and aid. His effective work has been felt and acknowledged by the community and
has invariably met with appropriation. Socially he is connected with the Odd
Fellows society, and he and his wife attend the Methodist church, of which Mrs.
White is a member. He is very popular in both business and social circles, and
his courteous manner and upright life have gained him a high degree of public
confidence and esteem.
THOMAS L WHITE
Thomas L. White, a manufacturer of and a wholesale and retail dealer in
confectionery at Atchison, Kansas, has been a resident of this city since 1871
and for a number of years has been engaged in his present line of business. Mr.
White is a native of Indiana, born in Paoli, October 27, 1833, and was reared in
that state. His father, Abram White, was born in North Carolina, and when a
young man moved to Indiana, where he was soon afterward married to Miss Mary
Lindey, who was born in that state in 1801. Abram White was a merchant during
the greater part of his active life. He died in 1848, when his son, Thomas L.,
was a boy of fourteen years. After the death of the father the widowed mother
moved from Paoli to a farm, where she reared her children and later married a
second time. Her death occurred in Indiana, when she was seventy-six years old.
Thomas L. White remained on the farm with his mother until he was twenty-one,
when he began farming operations for himself in Orange county. He remained in
Indiana until 1871, when he came to Atchison, Kansas, and here he turned his
attention to the nursery business as solicitor, in which pursuit he was engaged
until 1879. That year he formed a partnership with a Mr. Lincoln, under the firm
name of Lincoln & White, and began manufacturing confectionery. This firm
afterward became White & Son, then White & May, and three years later Mr. White
became sole proprietor of the establishment, which he has since conducted alone,
doing a large and prosperous business, catering to both a local and a large
jobbing trade.
Mr. White was married, in 1854, to Miss May A. Mans, a native of Indiana and a
daughter of Aaron Mans. Mr. and Mrs. White have had five children, three sons
and two daughters, namely: Charles M., of St. Paul, Minnesota; George A.,
deceased; Thomas L., Jr., of Beloit, Kansas; Mary M., the wife of W. F. Neitzel,
of Concordia, Kansas; and Ora, who died in early childhood. Mr. White gives his
support politically to the Republican party.
T M WHITE
Mr. White is a native of the Sunflower state, his birth having occurred in
Lancaster township, Atchison county, on the 2d of June, 1858. His father, Robert
White, is now residing in Horton. He was born in Zanesville, Ohio, but was
reared and educated in Indiana and Missouri. Having arrived at years of
maturity, he was married in the latter state to Miss Maria Miller, a native of
Indiana, and in 1857 they removed to Kansas, locating in Lancaster township,
Atchison county, where the father resided until 1892, when he took up his abode
in Horton. He was one of the early settlers of this section of the state and
experienced the usual hardships and privations which fall to the lot of those
who establish homes on the frontier. The country was very sparsely settled and
one had to journey many miles in order to obtain the necessary household
supplies. Throughout his active business career he followed farming. but is now
living retired. He exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and
measures of the Republican party, and is a member of the Christian church. Unto
Mr. and Mrs. Robert White were born eight children, namely: John A., of
Atchison; Asenath, who is living in Nemaha county; A. J.. of Benton township,
who served as a member of the legislature and was recently appointed census
enumerator of this district; T. M., of this review; James W., of Nemaha county;
Mrs. Elizabeth Anderson, of Atchison, Kansas; H. C., who resides in Hugo,
Colorado, and is serving as county treasurer there; and Frank, who is serving as
a reporter on the Denver Times, at Denver, Colorado.
Mr. White, of this review, was reared on the old homestead farm and received
such educational privileges as the schools of the neighborhood afforded. When
twenty-seven years of age he was married to Miss Sarah A. Denton, a native of
Ohio, and a daughter of George B. Denton, of Dentonville, Doniphan county,
Kansas. The young couple took up their abode in Huron, where Mr. White was
engaged in mercantile business for about six years. On the expiration of that
period Mr. White purchased the property known as the McFadden farm, one mile
from Willis and four miles from Horton. This property he has improved until it
is one of the best farms in the locality, the land being under a high state of
cultivation and yielding to the owner a golden tribute for the care and
cultivation bestowed upon it. Their home has been blessed with seven children,
namely: Edna E., Marcia M., Marshall R., Francis W., Irene, Jessie A. and Agnes
Marie.
As every true American should do, Mr. White takes a deep interest in the
political affairs and keeps well informed on the issues of the day. He votes
with the Republican party, and is now acceptably serving his township in the
office of treasurer. For many years he has been a faithful adherent of Masonry,
and is a zealous and exemplary member of Horton Lodge, No. 326, F. & A. M. He
holds a high place in the esteem of his fellow men who have honored him with
various positions of public trust. Social qualities and genuine worth have
attracted to him many friends and those who esteem him highly are many.
LAFOREST R WHITTIER
The surname of the subject of this memoir at once recalls to the mind of the
American patriot the gentle poet whose pen wielded an incalculable influence
toward the downfall of slavery. Indeed, the gentleman of whom we write comes of
the same New England family as did John G. Whittier, and drew from the same
fountainhead an undying hatred for the enslavement of any part of the human
race. His history and his loyalty to his country, both in peace and in war, will
be of interest to his many friends here and elsewhere.
His father, Philetus Whittier, was a shoemaker by trade, a native of New
Hampshire, born in 1808. When he had arrived at manhood he married Sophia A.
Wilkins, whose birth had occurred at Danbury, in the same state, September 23,
1819. Six children were born two this worthy couple, namely: Flora, now of
Canton, Illinois; Melissa, of Davenport, Iowa; Warren and Rosetta, deceased;
Ida, of Canton, Illinois, and Laforest, of Effingham, Kansas. In 1853 the father
removed to Canton, Illinois, and a few years later death cut short his career.
He was a radical Republican and an ardent abolitionist. He lost his devoted wife
in 1856, at Canton, Illinois, and on May 16, 1862, he followed her to the better
land. They were members of the Methodist church, and were earnest exponents of
the noble faith which they professed.
Laforest R. Whittier was born near Newport, New Hampshire, November 22, 1850,
and thus was only six years old at the time of his mother's death, while, from
the age of twelve years, he had to make his own way in the world, unaided by
either parent. The great Civil War, which was in progress during the years when
he should have paid the most earnest attention to his studies, interrupted them
noticeably, and if it had not been for his youth he would have enlisted early in
the war. However, he volunteered as a soldier in the ranks of Company C, One
Hundred and Fifty-first Regiment of Illinois Infantry, on the 9th of February,
1865. With his comrades he left Camp Butler, at Springfield, Illinois,
immediately, and was transported to Nashville, Tennessee, where the hard-pressed
Union forces were in sad need of reinforcements. Thence later he went to Dalton,
Georgia, and to Rome and Columbus, in the same state. Returning to Nashville, he
soon afterward was sent back to Camp Butler, as the war had been terminated, and
was honorably discharged on the 1st of February, 1866. He had suffered the
hardships incident to army life, but, in spite of his youth, had borne them with
fortitude, and often received the commendation of his superior officers.
For a few years after his return to Illinois Mr. Whittier was engaged in
business at Bushnell, meeting with fair success. In 1884 he came to Kansas,
settling in Norton county, and in 1893 he purchased his present homestead
(formerly known as the "Piggott Farm"), in Benton township. It comprises one
hundred and sixty-three acres, all of which is in a high state of cultivation
and improved with a comfortable house, barn and farm buildings. Adding to the
beauty and value of the place are the fine orchard and groves of well-kept shade
trees.
On December 29, 1870, the marriage of Mr. Whittier and Caroline D. Van Doren was
solemnized in Raritan, Illinois. She was born at Fairview, Fulton county,
Illinois, July 22, 1851, one of the seven children of William and Mary Munson
Van Doren. The father, who was born and educated in New York city, came of an
old Holland Dutch family, and for years he was prominent in the business world
as a hotel keeper in New York city. His two sons are George, of Illinois, and
Charles, of Leland, Kansas. Susan and Sarah and Annie reside in Illinois.
Steyphen (sic) (deceased) completes the family. Nine children were born to Mr.
and Mrs. Whittier, namely: Albert L.; Mary E., wife of Samuel Lockwood, of Brush
Creek, Atchison county; Emma May, who died when nine years old; Flora Bell, wife
of James Iles, of Everest, Kansas; Ida Ordelle, Charles Philetus, Susie E.,
William J., Sarah Ellen and Carrie Ethel. Mrs. Samuel Lockwood has one son,
Samuel Laforest, and Mrs. James Iles has two sons, Barry J. and W. Edgar.
The boys who wore the blue have ever been sincerely loved by Mr. Whittier, who
is a member of the Grand Army post at Effingham. He also belongs to the Modern
Woodmen of America, being identified with the Effingham lodge. With his faithful
companion and helpmate along life's journey he holds membership in the Christian
church.
MRS SARAH E (BILDERBACK) WILKINS
To be a worthy pioneer involves true heroism and history proves that women are
as heroic as men. The annals of the settlement and development of Kansas contain
the names of many pioneer women who, leaving the comforts and associations of
their old homes, braved dangers and endured hardships that their children might
be established in good homes in one of the most productive and attractive states
of the Union. Atchison county has been the place of residence of some of these
"mothers of the Sunflower state," and few of them came to the county earlier and
none have been more widely or more favorably known than she whose name forms the
caption of this article.
Mrs. Wilkins is a daughter of Thomas Bilderback, who came to Kansas in 1854,
leading his children to a "promised land" where they might have farms for the
asking and an opportunity to fight the battle of life with something like an
even chance for success. He had but just decided upon a location for them when
he died of cholera. This venturesome and hopeful but unfortunate pioneer was a
son of Gabriel T. Bilderback, a native of Germany, who came to the United States
and, after establishing a home in the new world, took for his wife a daughter of
"bonnie Scotland."
Thomas Bilderback was born in 1805 and located, in 1840, in Missouri, where he
became known as an upright and estimable citizen. His children were: Sarah E.,
born in 1831; Elizabeth J., wife of James R. Mayfield; Rachel M., who married
Henry Mayfield and is now deceased; Mary Emeline, who married Eridios Killough
and lives at Council Grove, Kansas; Gabriel Y. and A. C., of Center township,
Atchison county; A. B., who is dead; John M., who lives in Oklahoma; W. E., of
Texas; and Gettie A., wife of Thomas C. Gabberd, of Hall's Station, Missouri.
Sarah E. Bilderback and Michael Wilkins were married in August, 1852, when Mrs.
Wilkins was twenty-one years old. Mr. Wilkins was born near Salem, Marion
county, Illinois, June 12, 1827, a son of John Wilkins, a native of Tennessee,
who married an Irish Catholic in defiance of his parents wishes and settled in
Illinois, where he became a farmer. He had eight sons and eight daughters, all
of whom lived to be married. On the 1st of September, 1854, Mr. and Mrs. Wilkins
deposited their scant household effects on the southeast quarter of section 10,
in Mount Pleasant township, and there he lived through all the remainder of his
life, until October 28, 1891, when, as he was driving across the Atchison &
Santa Fe Railway track near Atchison, with a load of lumber, he was killed
instantly by a passing train, of the approach of which he had had no warning.
The land upon which the Wilkins family had settled had not had a previous owner
and was in its primitive condition. Its appearance may be imagined by any reader
acquainted with conditions in that part of the country at that time. They were
the first white people in their neighborhood and not owning a chicken themselves
they did not hear one crow for six months succeeding their settlement there. Mr.
Wilkins and his industrious wife had enough money to supply their modest wants
until a crop was raised and Mrs. Wilkins says she can tell no tales of hard
times from lack of provisions and other necessaries or life. They planted forty
acres of sod corn the first year and got thirty bushels to the acre. The next
year eighty bushels to the acre were gathered off the same field and this was
sold to farmers, less industrious perhaps, from Doniphan, Brown and Atchison
counties, at eighty cents or a dollar per bushel. The Indians trading proved a
source of revenue to them, for they bought their grain and their stock and
proved friendly and reliable.
The year 1856 brought trying times to the loyal and "free state" settlers of
Atchison county. The southern men and pro-slavery element who came into the
state to harass its citizens and coerce them into throwing Kansas into the
pro-slavery column proved to be a band of robbers and assassins. Men who were
outspoken in their hatred of slavery were their special objects of displeasure.
They stole horses from them and made threats of violence against them which
frequently led to the death of some patriot. The teams of the pioneers were
frequently composed of several yoke of oxen. Horses were kept largely for riding
and no man had more than three or four. It was no uncommon sight to see six and
eight yokes of cattle slowly crossing the prairies into Atchison, Leavenworth
and other river towns for provisions or carrying the crops to market. On one
occasion, after having successfully secreted his horses for weeks and until, as
he thought, immediate danger of robbery had passed, Mr. Wilkins placed his team
in a lot near the house, with the household to watch for thieves while he ate
breakfast. He had not finished his meal before the "border ruffians" had them
and were gone. Mrs. Wilkins followed after on foot tracking and tracing them for
a few miles and found them hidden in the brush. She evaded the guard, cut the
tie ropes with a dirk she carried and away went the horses for home at their
utmost speed. This is only one of many plucky and fearless acts performed by
women of that time and others may justly be credited to Mrs. Wilkins.
Mr. Wilkins belonged to the state militia and was in the battle of Westport
during Price's raid into Missouri. He was a Republican and expressed his
sentiments without fear. He was one of the best men the county possessed and his
judgment was widely respected. It was no trouble for him to make money, for he
always knew what a thing was worth and either paid the price or got it. He was
eminently fair and liberal in dealing with his neighbors, gave to them rather
than took from them, and was frequently called upon to settle disputes between
farmers where one had done the other an injury.
Mrs. Wilkins had no children, but has reared three daughters of her brother, A.
B. Bilderback: Florence, now twenty-four years old; Nora, who is now twenty-two
and is a teacher; and Dollie E., aged twenty-one. They are known by the name of
Wilkins and have been fitted for life by attendance at the Atchison county high
school.
ANDREW J WILSON
This gentleman, who occupies the position of registrar of deeds in Atchison, was
born in Lancaster township, Atchison county, on the 24th of November, 1859, and
is a son of Charles and Mary K. (Brown) Wilson. His paternal grandfather was
Elias Wilson. His father was born in Bartholomew, Indiana, February 7, 1827, and
in 1855 came with his family to Atchison county, Kansas, locating on a farm in
Lancaster township. Here his death occurred February 28, 1897. The mother, who
was born in Tennessee, October 30, 1831, is still living on the old homestead.
Andrew J. Wilson was reared on his father's farm in Lancaster township, where he
early became familiar with all the duties and labors that fall to the lot of the
agriculturist. He attended school at intervals during his minority, and in 1883
he left his native state, making an extended trip through the west and spending
some time on the Pacific coast in California in search of health. Upon his
return to Kansas he embarked in merchandising in the town of Huron, conducting
business with fair success until 1895, when he was elected registrar of deeds of
Atchison county for a term of two years. He discharged the duties so acceptably
that he was again made the Republican nominee, in 1897, and again in 1899, and
was re-elected each time and is therefore the incumbent in that position at the
present time. He is ever faithful to his duties and reliable and prompt in
discharge of the work that devolves upon him. He has also served as a township
trustee for five terms.
In 1884 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Wilson and Miss Millie Lewis, a
daughter of James Lewis, of Atchison county, Kansas. Their union has been
blessed with four children, namely: Jessie L., Norman L., Charles F. and George
Dewey. Mr. Wilson is a member of the order of Knights of Pythias and enjoys the
esteem of the members of that fraternity.
JOHN W WILSON
John W. Wilson, the principal of the Atchison County High School at Effingham,
Kansas, is a native of Illinois, and dates his birth in Bureau county, July 22,
1864. He traces his ancestry on both his paternal side and his maternal to
Scotland. His parents were David Gorsich Wilson and Lona nee Maxwell. The latter
was a native of Indiana and a daughter of William Maxwell, whose first American
ancestors came to this country from Scotland at an early day, their descendants
being now scattered throughout the states. John Wilson, the grandfather of our
subject, was a native of Tuscarawas county, Ohio, His remote ancestor was a
Scotch-Irishman who came to this country and settled in Maryland, and it was in
that state that the great-grandfather of John W. was born, and whence he removed
when a young man to Pennsylvania. John Wilson, the grandfather, was a soldier in
the Revolutionary army, and fought bravely for independence.
In 1869 the Wilson family removed from Illinois to Kansas, and settled in Benton
county, John W. at that time being a child of five years. He is the eldest child
in a family of eight children -- six sons and two daughters. namely John W.,
Olive, Frank, Emmet, Carrie, Edward, Bert A. and Fred. In the districts schools
our subject received his early education. Then he took a course in Drake
University at Des Moines, Iowa, where he graduated in 1890, after which he
entered the State Normal School in order to take a special training for
educational work. While obtaining his education he taught school at intervals,
and in 1893 he accepted a position as assistant principal in the Atchison County
High School, which place he filled until 1896, when he was promoted to his
present position, that of principal, which he has since filled most acceptably.
He has a corps of competent, well selected teachers as assistants who co-operate
with him in doing faithful. efficient work. Pupils graduating at this school are
admitted to the regular collegiate course in other institutions on diploma.
Professor Wilson was married, in 1892, to Miss Katie Coe, of Iowa, daughter of
Josiah and Jessie (Kinnis) Coe. They have two children, Mildred C. and Donald M.
Both Mr. Wilson and his wife are members of the Christian church.
He also is identified with the F. & A. M. and the M. W. of A., and is a member
of the Kansas Academy of Science. As a teacher, a citizen and a Christian
gentleman he stands high in the estimation of the people of Effingham, among
whom he has spent some of the best years of his life.
JOSEPH G WOLVERTON
Joseph G. Wolverton, the pioneer merchant of the thriving town of Effingham,
Atchison county, Kansas, possesses the enterprise and business energy of his
industrious ancestors, and much of the progress of this place may be justly
attributed to the patriotic spirit he maintains toward the spot with which his
fortunes are identified. In war and peace alike he has proved himself worthy of
his birthright as a citizen of this grand republic and in all life's varied
relations he has been faithful to the high principles which were inculcated in
him in childhood.
The paternal grandfather of our subject, Job Wolverton, a native of England.
came to the United States at an early day and located in Pennsylvania, where he
dwelt until his death. His son, Thomas, the father of Joseph G. Wolverton, was
born in the Keystone state and married a Philadelphia lady, Catherine Scout.
Subsequently the young couple resided in the Quaker city for some years and in
1836 they became farmers of Crawford county, Ohio. Later they removed to Lee
county, Illinois, where the devoted wife and mother was summoned to her reward.
She was sixty-four years of age at the time of her death and was survived by her
husband and father, who lived to attain the three-quarter-century mark. His
demise occurred in Washington county, Kansas. In his early manhood he was
engaged in teaching for some years, and throughout life he kept abreast of the
times by reading and study. For years he held the office of justice of the peace
and in politics he favored the Democratic party. Religiously he was a member of
the Society of Friends, but his wife was connected with the Methodist church.
Nine children blessed their union, those besides our subject being Lovinah and
Mary Ann, deceased; Jesse, who was a private in Company C, Seventh Illinois
Cavalry, during the civil war and now resides in Washington county, Kansas;
Crispin, who died in infancy; E. K., who, like his elder brother, Jesse, was a
hero of Company C, Seventh Illinois Cavalry, during the war of the Rebellion and
now owns a fine fruit farm of two hundred acres in Washington county; Hiram, of
Mitchell county, this state; Thomas J., of Marshall county, this state; and
William S., a farmer of South Dakota.
Joseph G. Wolverton was born in Hunterdon county, New Jersey, September 14,
1826. He was about ten years of age when the family removed to the west, where,
surrounded by the somewhat primitive conditions of frontier life, he grew to
hardy manhood. The deficiencies of his education were more than compensated by
the splendid home influences which he enjoyed and the experience of later years
has given him more than an ordinary fund of useful knowledge.
In November, 1851, Mr. Wolverton was married, in Wyandot county, Ohio, to Sarah
M. Leslie, a native of that state and a daughter of Alexander and Sarah (Zarn)
Leslie. The father was of Scotch-Irish descent, while the mother was of German
extraction. Six children were born to our subject and wife, but four of the
number are deceased. Lillie May died at the age of two years and J. F. D. in
infancy. Celia R. first married Joseph Mesigh and had two sons -- Francis L. and
George W.; and later she became the wife of W. D. Whetsell and afterward died.
Emma Alwilda, who was the wife of S. H. Stoner, died and left one child, Claude.
Orilla first married D. R. Jewel and by him had a daughter, Edna May; she
afterward became the wife of T. H. Johns, of Effingham. Myron T., the only
surviving son of our subject, is a farmer in South Dakota and has seven
children, namely: James B., Lillie May, Sarah M., Joseph G., Eva, Lotta and
Walter Leslie.
During the progress of the civil war Mr. Wolverton enlisted in the defense of
his country, becoming a member of Company C, Seventh Illinois Cavalry. He served
from March, 1865, until November 4, of the same year, under the command of
Captain D. S. Porter and Colonel Graham. Most of this period was spent in
Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee. After being honorably discharged at Camp
Butler he returned to his home in Lee county and was there engaged in farming
for several years. In 1881 he came to Effingham, arriving here on the 2d of
November, since which time he has been actively occupied in all kinds of local
enterprises. He erected the substantial store building which he uses now for his
stock of merchandise, and year by year has increased the volume of his business
by fair treatment of his customers and strict attention to their needs and
wishes.
Politically he is a Republican and neglects no opportunity of advancing the
interests of that party, to whose guidance of the ship of state he believes the
prosperity of this country may be justly attributed. Socially he is a member of
Effingham Post, No. 276, G. A. R. Both he and his estimable wife are devoted
members of the Christian church, giving liberally of their means to the spread
of the gospel.
WILLIAM T WOOD
William T. Wood was extensively engaged in agricultural pursuits in Wolf River
township and his business methods are practical and progressive and systematic.
He has spent his entire life in the west, and the spirit of progress which
dominates this region is manifested in his business career. Born in Buchanan
county, Missouri, on the 29th of September, 1840, he is a son of John Wood, who
became one of the pioneer settlers of Doniphan county. His grandfather, Jerry
Wood, was of English birth, and crossed the Atlantic to America, becoming a
resident of Bedford, Virginia, where the birth of John Wood occurred.
In the spring of 1855 the latter removed with his family from Missouri to
Doniphan county, being one of the first white men to make a permanent settlement
here. He pre-empted a tract of land about three and a half miles from St.
Joseph, about the time that Missouri was admitted into the Union, and again
secured a government claim on coming to Doniphan county, thus becoming owner of
the northwest quarter of section 15, Wolf River township. He was a wide-awake,
energetic and prosperous farmer, meeting with marked success and accumulating
extensive land possessions, so that he was enabled to aid all his children in
starting out in life by giving to them desirable farms. He died on the old
homestead that he pre-empted, at the age of eighty-four years, and the community
lost thereby one of its valued citizens. In early manhood he had married Miss
Nancy Carter, and her death occurred in Doniphan county, in 1878, at the ripe
old age of ninety-one years. Their children were John P., who died in Siskiyou
county, California; Mary, the deceased wife of Hugh Robertson; Margaret, the
deceased wife of George M. Bromley; Leslie, deceased; and Catharine, the wife of
Laborn Jackson, of Atchison county.
No event of special importance to our subject occurred during his boyhood and
youth, which was spent upon his father's farm, and in attending the district
schools, but hardy had he attained his majority, when the civil war was
inaugurated and with patriotic spirit he responded to the call for troops,
enlisting in Company F, Fifth Kansas Cavalry, under Colonel Clayton. He was with
that regiment for eighteen months, during which time he participated in the
battles of Morristown, Osceola and Locust Grove. Subsequently he was transferred
to Company K, Tenth Kansas Infantry. and made sergeant of the company. This
command was attached to the Army of the Cumberland, and with it he participated
in the last battle of Franklin, Tennessee, took part in the engagement at
Nashville, where Hood's army was almost annihilated, and later he aided in the
capture of Spanish Fort and Fort Blakely. He veteranized at Alton, Illinois, and
when the war was over was mustered out at St. Louis, Missouri. He never received
a wound, although he participated in many hotly contested engagements, being
ever found at his post of duty, whether on the field of battle or on the picket
lines.
With an honorable war record Mr. Wood returned to Doniphan county, and soon
after began farming for himself. He purchased the northeast quarter of section
16, Wolf River township, and this proved the nucleus of his present fine farm,
which now comprises three hundred and sixty acres of rich and arable land under
a high state of cultivation. In October, 1865, he chose as a companion and
helpmeet on life's journey, Miss Abbie Literil, a native of Kentucky. Their
marriage was blessed with eight children, namely: John P.. who married Lula
Wykert and resides in St. Joseph, Missouri; Annie, the wife of Augustus Davis,
of Sumner county, Kansas; Nancy, the wife of Frank Chase, of Doniphan county;
William H., George C., Ida, Hugh and Lula, all with their parents. In politics
Mr. Wood is a stalwart Republican, unswerving in the support of the principles
of the party, yet has never sought office. He is ever true to his duties of
citizenship and to those of private life. Actively identified with agricultural
pursuits, he is numbered among the representative farmers of Doniphan county and
is respected by all who know him.
CALEB A WOODWORTH
On the pages of Kansas history the name of Major Caleb A. Woodworth stands
conspicuously forth as one of the prominent pioneers who opened up to
civilization the region comprised within the northeastern part of this
commonwealth. He is numbered among the early frontier settlers who laid the
foundation of the great prosperity and progress of Atchison county, and is
equally distinguished in military and political circles. The history of this
section of the commonwealth would be incomplete without the record of Major
Woodworth, whose labors have largely promoted the material, educational and
moral welfare of this section of the state.
The Major was born in Wilkesbarre, Pennsylvania, April 14, 1838, and is a son of
Caleb Woodworth, a native of Tyre, New York, whose father, also named Caleb, was
a captain of artillery under General Scott in the war of 1812. Gresham
Woodworth, the great-grandfather of our subject, was a colonel in the
Continental army during the war of the Revolution, and took part in the battle
of Saratoga. The family were of English origin, the original American ancestors
coming from the Isle of Man to the new world at an early period in its
upbuilding. Caleb Woodworth, Sr., the father of our subject, was a farmer by
occupation, and married Miss Ellen Gordon, whose home was in Goshen, New York, a
daughter of Cornelius Gordon, who was of Scotch-Irish lineage. He was born on
the Emerald Isle, but at an early day came to America, taking up his abode in
Virginia. Mr. Woodworth died at the age of seventy-four years, and the mother
passed away in December, 1898, at the advanced age of eighty-six years. Both
were members of the Congregational church, and the former was a loyal adherent
of the Odd Fellows' society. In their family were five children: Caleb A.,
Gilbert M., who came to Kansas at an early day and enlisted in the Kansas
regiment, in which he served three years. He first became corporal and then
sergeant, and later was captain of a company of the Fourth Arkansas Infantry. In
1864 he was made lieutenant-colonel of the Twelfth Kansas Militia. In political
life he was also prominent, serving as state senator in Colorado. He died in
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, September 8, 1899, leaving a son, Charles G., who is
now residing in Onanga, Oklahoma. Ben F., the next of the family, is a resident
of Downs, Oklahoma. During the Civil war he served for three years, being part
of the time bugler of Company A, Fifth Kansas Infantry, while during the
remainder of the time he was a captain in the Fourth Regiment of Kansas
Volunteers. David G., who for a number of years was a member of the state
militia, resides in Atchison county; Sarah Elizabeth became the wife of B. A.
Colville and died in Muscotah, Kansas, leaving one son, Frank Colville, who
became a physician and recently died at St. Joseph, Missouri.
Major Woodworth spent his boyhood days in Virginia, and acquired his educated
(sic) in the schools there. In 1857 he accompanied his father and the family to
Kansas. They located at Muscotah, where the Major remained until 1861, when he
responded to the country's call for troops, enlisting in Company B, Fourth
Kansas Infantry, in which he served for nine months. On April 19, 1862, he was
mustered out, but soon afterward re-enlisted for three years in Company F,
Thirteenth Kansas Infantry, in which he was promoted to the rank of major. He
served under Generals Blount, Schofield, Steele and Reynolds.
Since his return Major Woodworth has been called upon to perform other service
for the people of his state. In 1876 he was elected to the senate, where he
served for four years, and in 1892 he was chosen to represent the third Kansas
district in the lower house of the legislature. He was also superintendent of
the Soldiers' Orphans' Home.
In June, 1867, Mr. Woodworth was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Shaw, of
Valley Falls, Jefferson county, Kansas, a native of Akron, Ohio, and a daughter
of William and Louisa Shaw, both of whom were natives of Ohio. Three children
have been born of this union: Nora, who is now the wife of E. M. Wilcox, of
Muscotah, and has three sons: Herbert, Moses C. and Frank; Ed. S., who married
Sarah Surr and has a daughter, Margaret; Jennie, the youngest, is at home. The
Major has given his children excellent educational advantages, thus preparing
them for the practical and responsible duties of life. Mrs. Wilcox is a graduate
of the University of Holton, Kansas, and Ed Woodworth is a graduate of the high
school of Atchison.
BENJAMIN D ZIMMERMAN
Atchison, Kansas, has its full share of up-to-date, enterprising business men,
and occupying a representative position among them is Benjamin D. Zimmerman, a
dealer in queensware.
Mr. Zimmerman was born in Lehigh county, Pennsylvania, near Seipstown, July 5,
1857, son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Leiby) Zimmerman, both natives of that
county. His father was born January 6, 1822, and his mother July 11, 1829.
Daniel Zimmerman is now eighty years of age and a resident of Lehigh county,
Pennsylvania; is a son of Benjamin Zimmerman, born in Lehigh county,
Pennsylvania, April 2, 1797, died July 17, 1842; the latter was a son of George
W. Zimmerman, born August 24, 1745, died October 5, 1823; and his father, whose
given name cannot be recalled, was a German and the progenitor of the family in
America and settled in Pennsylvania. Elizabeth Leiby was a daughter of Daniel
Leiby, born November 5, 1797, and died November 9, 1858. He was a son of Daniel
Leiby, born December 8, 1772, and died June 28, 1855. The Leiby family is also
of German origin and early settled in Pennsylvania.
Benjamin D. Zimmerman passed his boyhood days on his father's farm in Lehigh
county, doing such work as he could on the farm in summer and in winter
attending the district schools near his home. In early manhood he learned the
trade of a carpenter, at which he worked in Pennsylvania for five years. In 1879
he came west to Kansas, thinking the opportunities for a young man to get on in
the world were better here than in the east. He located at Atchison and here he
continued work at his trade for seven years. At the end of that time he
purchased the crockery stock of Regnier & Shoup, and has since successfully
conducted business at their old stand. He carries a full line of queensware,
counts among his customers the leading people of the city and surrounding
country, and is well established in a prosperous business.
Mr. Zimmerman is a man of family. He was married, in 1881, to Miss Mary Jane
Schall; a native of Northampton county, Pennsylvania, and at the time of her
marriage a resident of Atchison. They have two children, Flossie P. and Raymond
P.
Mr. Zimmerman has always taken an active interest in local affairs, and in 1896
and 1897 served as a member of the Atchison city council. He is also an active
church worker, he and his wife being identified with the Lutheran church. He is
a member of the Modern Woodmen of America and several other fraternal societies.