THE HISTORY OF JOHNSON COUNTY, MISSOURI- Biographies for Centerview Township, Pages 817-836 Kansas City Historical Co. 1881 *********************************************************************** Transcribed by Bill Pennington *********************************************************************** O. R. Andruss, section thirteen, Centerview township, was born in east Tennessee in 1827. Moved from Tennessee to his present location in the year 1849. Was married to Miss Weltha Jane Cox in 1851. They have six children, four boys and two girls, all living. The boys' names are: William H. Andruss, James R. Andruss, George Andruss and Edward Andruss. The girls' names are: Mary Emma and Clara Lillie. Mr. Andruss came to this country as a young man without any means, and has worked himself up to his present comfortable circumstances. He has now 330 acres of land in all, about 245 acres of which are under cultivation, and about eighty- five acres of wood land. Does a general farming business, raising grain and hogs mostly. E. J. BURK, was born in Johnson county, Missouri, August 19, 1840. His father, William Burk, was a native of Virginia, and was born in 1809, and emigrated to Missouri in 1834, and located in Saline county. He came to Johnson county in 1838. Edward J. was educated in the common schools. He is a farmer, and devotes considerable time to feeding stock, and occasionally dealing in real estate, in which he has been quite successful. He remained with his parents until his marriage to Miss Zantippa Whitsett, daughter of John R. Whitsett, Esq., in April, 1872. By this union they have four children: Charles A., Sarah L., George G. and Maggie E. Mr. B. has held the office of school director for nine years. He and his wife are both members of the C. P. church, in which Mr. B. has been an elder for eleven years. Mr. Burk's farm contains 195 acres, and he also owns another farm of forty acres, making 235 acres in all. E. B. CONWAY, farmer and stock raiser, was born in east Tennessee, November 22, 1828. His father, W. T. Conway, was a native of Tennessee, born December 25, 1800, and emigrated to Missouri about 1832, and settled on a farm near Columbus, where he resided until 1849, when he moved to Texas, and engaged in farming and stock raising, and followed this until his death. Edward B. spent his youth on a farm, and received his early education in the common schools of that day, at which time the wolves were so fierce that it was dangerous for children to cross the prairies to school. He has resided in this county ever since he was a small boy. He has spent considerable time in traveling over the different states. He was married Aug. 25, 1867, to Miss Martha A. Sterling, daughter of J. C. Sterling. They have three children living: Alexander, Veranda V. and Nancy L. They lost one, Porter, who died at three years of age. Mr. C. owns a good farm, containing 120 acres of choice land, all in cultivation, with a good, comfortable residence. Mr. C. and wife are members of the C. P. church. JOHN DELANEY, The subject of this sketch was born in Bourbon county, Kentucky, in the year 1826. Moved from there with his parents to Morgan county, Illinois. Followed the business of farming and stock raising all his life. He moved his family, in 1869, to Johnson county. His farm is located on sections seventeen and twenty. He was married in the year 1852 to Miss Isabel Duhope, a native of Scotland, born at Leith, near Edinburgh. Her mother died in Scotland. Her father died in Illinois. Mr. DeLaney has served the neighborhood as school director for two terms, and takes an active interest in the welfare of the county. He was elected justice of the peace, and held the office for two years. They have six children, whose names are as follows: William Richard DeLaney, Mary Ann DeLaney, John DeLaney, Margaret Helen DeLaney, James Benjamin DeLaney and Charles David DeLaney. He is descended from good old Revolutionary stock, his grandfather having served as a soldier from Kentucky, during those struggles for national existence. His wife's uncle being an old sea captain, left as heir-loom to the family a beautiful barometer, manufactured at Edinburgh, Scotland, with large silver dial and handsomely furnished case. It is in good working order, indicating approaching storms on the prairie as faithfully and correctly as it did for the old weatherbeaten tar as he sailed the pathless ocean in "Auld lang syne," and is a constant reminder that "auld acquaintance should ne'er be forgot." W. R. DELANEY, principal of the Centerview schools. Was born in Morgan county, Ill., April 23, 1856. In 1869, he came to Missouri with his parents, and located in Centerview township, where he spent the remainder of his youth, and attended the common schools. He also attended the State Normal at Warrensburg, for two and one half years. He has recently bought out the interest of Whitsett & Porter, changing the name of the firm to Porter & DeLaney, dealers in grain and agricultural implements. MATTHEW DUFF, farmer. Was born in Pennsylvania, April 21, 1827. He received his early education in his native state, and afterwards attended the Ellsworth academy, in Ohio, and after that, the Mount Union college. He then engaged in teaching, and taught two schools, of forty weeks each. He was married in 1854, to Miss Lizze Clark, daughter of David Clark. He then engaged in farming in his native county, and followed it until 1871, when he came to Missouri, and located at Centerview, where he and James Kiddoo built the Centerview Mills, the first mills in the town. He exchanged his mill property for his present farm, containing 160 acres, all in cultivation, with a first-class residence, and excellent out buildings, and a never-failing spring of water, near the barn. He moved to his farm in 1876, since which time he has been engaged in farming and stock-raising, and is quite an extensive wheat grower. His family consists of five children; Flora J., Mary L., James W., Wm. H., and Lizzie E. Mr. and Mrs. D., and all their children, are members of the U. P. church. WM. H. ENGEL. Among the prominent and intelligent, of those whose occupation is farming, may be mentioned Mr. Engel. He was born in Frederick county, Md., in 1826. His father and mother were originally from Pennsylvania, and emigrated to Maryland in a very early day. Wm. H. spent his youth in a country store, then went on to a farm. He received his primary education at a common school. He then went to Calvert college, attending several terms, after which he entered the Ohio University, at which place he pursued his studies one year, and then graduated at Dickenson college, in June, 1851. He then began his career as a teacher of a select school, which he followed for a number of years. In 1854, he had the degree of B. A. conferred. In 1854-5, he served as reading clerk in the Maryland legislature, one year. In 1857, he came to Missouri, and soon after he purchased 250 acres of land, and erected a large flour mill, and followed milling until the outbreak of the war. He sold this, and in 1867, moved on to his present farm, and engaged in farming, which he has followed ever since. He has a neat and comfortable residence, with ninety-five acres of choice land, all in cultivation. In 1860, he married Miss Virginia Owings, (daughter N. H. Owings,) a most worthy and estimable lady. They have four children; Edward D., Ida V., Harry B. and Houdard. In politics, Mr. E. is a Democrat. Mr. and Mrs. E. are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian church. JAMES M. FITCH, who is the subject of the following sketch, was born in Lewis county, Kentucky, in the year 1840. He came to Warrensburg in the year 1865, and went to work on the farm he now lives on. He was married on Nov. 16, 1857, to Miss Martha Ellen Davis, daughter of Mahala Davis, who was born in Tennessee, in 1805. Her parents settled near Boonville in Cooper county. She was married to Mr. Davis in the year 1820, and settled on the present farm, about the year 1839. She had nine children, five of whom are now living, named as follows: Robert Milton Davis, John B. Davis, Ann Eliza Davis, Mary Saffronia Davis, and Martha Ellen Davis. She remained with her family on the farm during the war. Her husband died in the year 1855. Mr. Jas. M. Fitch, her son-in-law, has managed the farm since he came here. During the past six or seven years, he has turned his attention to dealing in stock, and has become a well known shipper of hogs, mules, and cattle, in the St. Louis markets. He has five children; Albert Crawford, Chas. H., Forrest, Earnest and Mahala Fitch. His farm contains 205 acres of well improved land. J. C. GEERY, farmer. Was born in Johnson county, Mo., February 24, 1861. His father, James Geery, was born in Howard county, Mo., about 1832, his father having been one of the pioneers of this state. He was married in 1848, to Miss S. M. Eaton, daughter of Elu Eaton. By this union they had one son, J. C. Geery. James Geery settled about two and a half miles south of Centerview, where he continued to reside until his death, which occurred in 1862. John C., who is the only surviving member of the family, spent his youth on a farm, and was educated in the common schools. He is one of the most enterprising young men of his neighborhood, and is well known, and highly respected. He owns 150 acres of choice land, well improved. DANIEL GIFFIN, was a native of Virginia, born in Ohio county, near Wheeling, February 3, 1839. He resided in his native county, until twenty-three years of age, and received his early education in the common schools. He also attended one session under Prof. A. F. Rooss, after which he taught one term of school, and then went to Ohio, where he was married in 1865, to Miss Mary Waddell, a native of Marion county, Ohio. He came to Missouri in 1868, and settled on his present farm, containing eighty acres, well improved, with good substantial buildings, where he has resided ever since. Mr. G. and wife are both members of the U. P. church. SAMUEL C. GRAHAM, section 36, Centerview township. The subject of this sketch was born in Withe county, Southwest Virginia, on the 14th of December, 1814. He, with his father, Robert Graham, moved to Boone county, Missouri, in 1833. The family remained there during the winter, and in March, 1834, moved to what is now Hazel Hill township. Here, the father, Robert Graham, died in April 1856, having held the office of county judge for several years previous to his death. In 1840, the son, Samuel C., was married to Margaret G. Hobson, and moved to the present township of Centerview and entered 160 acres of land, adjoining to what is now the village of Centerview. Here he has resided since that time, and has raised a family of eight children, five of whom are still living. His wife, Margaret G. Graham, was born in Salina county, Kentucky, December 18, 1818. Her father was a native of Tennessee. Mr. Graham now owns about 400 acres of land, all under cultivation, except a few acres of wood land. The wheat, known as the Graham wheat, so extensively grown in all the region of the state, took its name from this family - a brother having first grown a very fine crop, and farmers came from all directions to obtain the wheat for seed. Hence the name Graham wheat. R. B. GRAHAM, section 10; born in Centerview township, in 1842. His father was J. G. Graham, mentioned elsewhere in connection with the sketch of John H. Graham. Mr. R. B. Graham has lived in the township of Centerview ever since he was born. He was married in 1866 to Miss Nancy J. King. They have had nine children, eight of whom are now living. Has 130 acres of land, all of which is under cultivation. Does a general farming business, mainly raising grain: wheat and corn being the principal products. JOHN H. GRAHAM, section 35, Centerview P. 0., son of J. G. Graham, was born at the old homestead in which he now lives, November 6, 1844. His father was born in Virginia in 1811, and moved to Centerview township in the year 1838, having the previous year been married to Miss Mary E. Hobson, who was a native of Lafayette county, Missouri. They have eleven children, all living, and all married but three. The father, J. G. Graham, died July 3d, 1878, and the son, J. H. Graham, the subject of this sketch, is now living with his family and mother, upon the old homestead and estate. GEO. E. GRIFFITH, section 5, Centerview township, was born in Fayette county, Pennsylvania, in 1823. His father was a native of Maryland. He has resided in Warren county, Iowa, for about twenty years. In the year 1865, he was elected a member of the house of representatives for Iowa, and served in that capacity one term; immediately thereafter, in 1866, was elected State senator, and served till 1870. He did not seek political honors, in fact was nominated while away from home, and was elected by an overwhelming majority. He occupied the very important position of chairman of the committee on public buildings, and was largely influential in securing the passage of the bill authorizing the construction of the present magnificent capitol building, at Des Moines, Iowa. No man stood higher as a wise legislator, or a more efficient worker for the large interest intrusted to his care. He was also mainly instrumental in obtaining the construction of the branch of the Rock Island railroad, from Des Moines to Indianola. He was made president of the construction company, and carried the project through, although on account of the failure of other parties connected with the enterprise, it resulted in quite a pecuniary loss to himself. Mr. Griffith was also instrumental in securing the building of the college at Indianola, having through his efforts, and great sacrifice of time and expense, obtained subscriptions to the amount of $20,000 and over, thus securing the adoption and patronage of the Des Moines conference of the Methodist Episcopal church, thereby securing to the conference and the State of Iowa an institution, in which they may both justly take pride. Mr. Griffith moved to his present residence in Centerview, in the spring of 1874. He has three children, one being a widower with one child. He now owns 686 acres of land, and does a general farming business; and at the same time deals largely in stock. He raises a good many cattle and hogs, and also buys largely for the purpose of feeding and fattening for the market. He sends to market this year some 220 head of very fine fat cattle. He has a beautiful situation and fine facilities for his stock; and as the writer of this sketch was shown through the shaded and pleasant grove, where about fifty head of as fine and fat three-year-old steers and heifers as he ever looked upon were feeding, having before them a constant supply of corn and fresh cured hay, and at the same time ranging in fresh pastures and a plentiful supply of good water, verily we were constrained to believe that Mr. Griffith understood thoroughly the business in which he was engaged. ANDREW GOWANS, deceased, was born in Ohio, Sept. 25, 1834, and resided in that state until his majority, and was educated in the common schools. He entered the Union army in 1865 in company H, 94th Ohio infantry. He entered as a private and was promoted at different times, until he became captain. He participated in several hotly contested battles. He was honorably discharged at the close of the war, and then went to Illinois, where he remained until 1867, when he came to Missouri, and settled on the farm on which his widow now resides. The farm contains 120, acres all in cultivation, except for twenty acres of timber. In 1869, Mr. G. erected a fine residence, and also has an excellent barn. He was married in 1872 to Miss Carrie A. Lorimer, a native of Ohio, and the daughter of Alexander Lorimer, Esq. Mr. G., at the time of his death, which occurred in 1881, was engaged in farming and stock-raising, and was a member of the U. P. church. Mrs. G. is also a member of the U. P. church. She has three daughters: Grace, Mary E. and Katie I. R. C. HULL, merchant and express agent. Prominent among the business men of Centerview, we mention the name of Mr. Hull, who was born in the state of New Hampshire, at the foot of the White Mountains. When about 16 years of age went to southern Ohio, and remained until 1868, when he came to Missouri in the fall of the same year, locating in Centerview. In the following year he built his store house, which was the first of the kind in the town, which is now the principal store of the place. He does a large business, and his popularity may be inferred by his success. In 1861, he was married to Miss Margaret Clifton, of Ohio. The result of this union has been one son and one daughter. Birdie W. and Rodney C. Birdie, who is the telegraph operator at Centerview, is well qualified for the responsible position. JOSHUA BURTON JACKSON, is a native of Missouri; born in Lafayette county, in the year 1824. His father was a native of Virginia, and his mother a native of Tennessee. They emigrated to Missouri in the year 1819, and settled near Lexington, Mo. The subject of this sketch was about six years old when he came to Johnson county, and has lived in what is now Centerview township ever since. He was married in Johnson county, in the year 1854, to Miss Martha E. Ripley. Her parents were natives of Tennessee, and moved to this county in the year 1848. They have three children living: David William Jackson, Nathanial Burton Jackson, and Cora Ida May Jackson. He was in this county when it was all known as Lafayette county, and when the site of Warrensburg was located. His father built the first mill in this part of the country, which ground the bread-stuff for settlers coming from as great a distance as Clinton, Henry county. He has run the mill often days and nights to accommodate the customers. The mill burned down, and was rebuilt by him and his father. The mill was started about the year 1831, or 1832, and was run almost constantly to the year 1854. Mr. Jackson built his own house in the year 1856, on land that he had entered some time before. His farm consists of beautiful rolling prairie, and timber. During the war he lost almost all his personal property, the accumulation of years, and removed his family to McLean county, Ill., for safety. He came to Clinton, Missouri, in the fall of 1865, and found employment, rebuilding the water mill at that place, known as the Jackson Mill. After remaining there for some time, he returned to his farm, which, during the war, was neglected and run down, that it was almost like commencing life anew. Ten years of energetic industry of himself and thrifty wife and children, have made their farm a delightful home again, where they expect to spend their declining years under the shadow of their own vine and fruitful orchard. He has served the citizens in the capacity of school director for six years. He is highly esteemed by all who know him in the neighborhood where he has lived for almost fifty years. GEO. HAYMAKER, retired farmer. Among the worthy citizens who have contributed much to the development of his township, may be mentioned Mr. Haymaker. He has been prominently identified with the Presbyterian church for many years. He is a native of Pennsylvania, born in Westmoreland county July 20, 1828. He received a limited education at the common schools. In Oct. 1857, he married Miss Matilda McConnel. In 1863, Mr. H. entered the Union army, joining company D, 15th Pennsylvania cavalry, and participated in the celebrated raid under Gen. Stoneman, marching through North Carolina, over the Blue Ridge to Lynchburg, to Salisbury, through the state of Georgia, Huntsville and Nashville, Tennessee, and was mustered out at the close of the war. In the fall of 1867, he moved his family to Missouri, and settled about four miles from Centerview, where he engaged in farming, and remained for several years, then moved into the town of Centerview. He still owns a farm of 260 acres of choice land. In 1872, Mrs. Haymaker died, leaving three sons: Edward M., Oliver R. and Milo M. Edward, who is a graduate of Eastor College, is now attending the Theological school at Princeton, N. J. In 1872, Mr. Haymaker was married to Miss Sarah A. McGinnis, of Pittsburg. She is a worthy member of the same church as that of her husband. Mr. H. owns a good substantial residence in Centerview, and some town lots. MATHIAS HOUX, one among the oldest and most enterprising citizens of this township, was born in Logan county, Kentucky, in the year 1816. Moved with his father, Jacob Houx, to Cooper county, Missouri. He started out while a young man, with nothing but his hands and a vigorous determination to carve out his own fortune. How well he has succeeded the sequel of this sketch will show. Being full of ready wit and a strong constitution, he was prepared for any kind of business that might present itself to advance his interests, and having the advantage of an early training in frontier life, was familiar with the use of the rifle, the ax and the hunting knife. This kind of capital was more valuable in those early times than money, and his skillful hands and steady nerve furnished him with a home and food where money could not buy it. He commenced opening and improving his farm in 1836, and entered the first 40 acres in that year and by additions gradually increased it to its present size. In a field of a little west of the house lies a relic of by-gone days, and an evidence of his mechanical skill, the remaining wheel of a wagon, which was hewn out and made entirely by himself and brother the second year they were on the place. He was married in 1853 to Miss Lissey Bradley, who was born in Virginia, the daughter of a planter of that state, who moved to Missouri in 1831, and settled in Lafayette county. The names of their children are: Susan, Mary, Achilles, Eva, Maggie and Katie. The mother of Mrs. Houx is still living. His home is situated on section 23. His entire farm consists of 740 acres of beautiful rolling prairie and timber. A fine grove of timber just north of his house has grown to its present size during his lifetime, there being no timber there when he first came to the place. Another article of old times is seen in a buckskin coat, which was made from deer shot in this neighborhood. He suffered very severe losses during the war in stock, consisting of cattle, mules, horses, hogs, etc., but since then has greatly increased his property, having at present 340 head of sheep, a large number of cattle, mules and horses. He sold last year over eighty head of cattle. As a stock raiser and farmer he has been very successful. T. R. HUGGINS, the enterprising proprietor of the Centerview mills, was born in Ohio, August 22, 1849. Being induced by the growing prospects and glowing descriptions of the west, he left home when he was only seventeen years old. He settled in Johnson county in the year 1867, and during the first three years of his life here followed the business of farming. He was afterward employed as salesman in the store of Hull & Co., which place he filled for eight years. He was married to Miss Helen Graham on May 8, 1873, daughter of I. H. Graham, one among the oldest settlers of this part of the county. He has four children, whose names are as follows: Calvin, Lawson, Carrie and Virginia. Coming here after the close of the war, he was among the number of energetic young men necessary to infuse new life into a community prostrated by the inevitable consequences of war, and pushing forward has kept pace with the growth and progress of the county ever since. He owns one of the best mills in the county, keeping up with the times in all new and valuable improvements, thus improving the quality of the flour, of which he makes three straight grades to meet the demands of his steadily increasing trade. JOHN H. KINYOUN, A. M. AND M. D., was born October 4, 1825, in Davie county, North Carolina. His father, James Kinyoun, was born February 4, 1804, in North Carolina, where he died in 1857. His paternal grandfather was born in England, near London, in 1756, and came to America in 1777, landing at Norfolk, Virginia, and enlisted under Gen. George Washington, and was afterward promoted to assistant quartermaster. After the close of the war he settled in North Carolina, where he resided until his death. John H. spent his youth on his father's farm, and attended school during the winter seasons. At the age of twenty he went to the Jonesville academy, where he remained five months, and then went to the Mocksville academy, where he remained two years, and was prepared to enter college. He then went to Wake Forest college, North Carolina, where he remained but one year, not liking the course of instruction, after which he went to Columbian college, located at Washington, D. C., where he remained one year. He then went to Union college, the State University of New York, where he graduated with the honors of the college, and then returned to North Carolina, where he taught school for four years. While teaching school he studied law in the school of Chief Justice Pearson, and was admitted to the bar, but not liking the profession, he abandoned it and commenced the study of medicine in the office of Dr. Valentine Mott, professor of surgery in the university of the city of New York, graduating in 1859 with the honors of the university. He then returned home and commenced the practice of medicine. In 1861 he entered the southern army, was elected captain, and passed through thirteen regular battles, and was afterward appointed surgeon, and served until the close of the war, proving himself to be a fine surgeon, as well as practitioner, by his many successful operations. At the close of the war he returned to North Carolina, and went to farming and practicing, and afterward went to Texas, but returned the next year to North Carolina, where he met Mr. Ridings, of Warrensburg, who persuaded him to come to Missouri, and in 1868, he left North Carolina, and arrived at Warrensburg on the 6th of May, having borrowed the money from Mr. Kidings to pay freight and traveling expenses, and had only ten dollars left when he arrived. He located on Post Oak, three miles south of Centerview. Here he went to farming and making rails, and during the fall and winter he made 12,000 rails for his neighbors, and enough stakes to make three-quarters of a mile of post fence. He would take his pony with him to the timber, and when sent for he would make the visit, prescribed, and then return to his work; but the second year his practice required all his time. He was married December 18, 1856, to Miss Bettie A. Conrad, daughter of Joseph Conrad, of North Carolina. She died in 1872, leaving two sons and three daughters: Joseph J., Lula A., Flora R., Stella K. and John C. The last named died when a baby. Mr. K. lived a widower for five years, and then married a widow, Mrs. Martha A. Hammond. He now owns a fine and comfortable home, and enjoys great prosperity. WILLIAM C. KING, P. O. Holden. Was born in Johnson county, Missouri, May 14, 1842. He was educated in the common schools and lived with his parents until 1862, when he entered the Union army, in company C, 40th Missouri enrolled militia, and served two years. In 1864 he returned home and went to farming. He then crossed the Plains, but returned in the following year, and went to Texas, and returned with 1,640 head of Texas cattle. He was married in December, 1874, to Miss Annie E. Taggart, a native of Missouri. By this union they have four children: Agnes, Jennie, William A., and Ora Minta. Mrs. King is a member of the M. E. church, south. Mr. King has served as district clerk and school director for eight or nine years. His farm contains 145 acres, all in cultivation, except 25 acres of timber, with a new residence and good out buildings. Mr. King's father and mother were both natives of Tennessee, and came to Missouri in 1841. His father was born in 1813 and is still living, but his mother died when he was about 6 years of age. AMOS MARKEY, the subject of this sketch, for twenty six years has been identified with the growth of Johnson county. He was born in Frederick county; Maryland, in the year 1832, and moved with his parents to Preble county, Ohio, in the year 1839. His parents were natives of Pennsylvania. He was married in the state of Indiana, September 24, 1867, to Miss Nancy Frits. The children by this marriage are Edward Markey, born July 14, 1869, and Ellie Markey, born September 10, 1872. He came alone to Johnson county, stopping at Warrensburg on the 1st of April, 1855. He bought and improved a farm of 480 acres, which he afterward sold to Judge McClain. He commenced to improve his present farm in the year 1868; it contains 419 acres of beautiful rolling prairie land. During the past few years, he has turned his attention to improved grades of sheep, and has at present a fine flock of high grade Cotswolds. Taking a zealous interest in the moral and religious welfare of the community, he gave freely of his time and money to build up the church of his choice and became one of the first trustees of the German Baptist, or Dunkard church, which has a large membership in this township. In all his farming enterprises he has been very successful, and is now enjoying the fruits of his labors in one of the pleasantest homes in the township. REV. S. H. McELVAIN, pastor of the Cumberland Presbyterian church of Centerview, was born in Simpson county, Kentucky, near Franklin, November 16, 1846. His father, S. A. McElvain, is also a native of Kentucky, and emigrated to Missouri in 1857, and settled on a farm near Hazil Hill, where he is still living. His mother, who is a native of the same state, is living in the full enjoyment of all her faculties. She raised a family of thirteen children, ten of whom are now living. S. H., who is the subject, received his primary education at the common schools. He then entered McGee's College, where he pursued his studies and graduated in June, 1874. After which he engaged in teaching school in the town of Centerview, and in the fall of the same year was ordained and took charge of his present congregation. The church owes much of its prosperity to efforts put forth by its worthy pastor. In 1880 he was united in marriage to Miss Maggie Auld, daughter of A. T. Auld, Esq. She is a native of Henry county, Iowa, and was born near Mt. Pleasant. Mr. McElvain is a fine speaker, a clear reasoner, widely known and much respected. MOSES G. MULLLINS, Sec. 2, Centerview P. O., was born in Clark county, Kentucky, in the year 1820. His father, Anthony Mullins, moved to Clark county, Kentucky, at an early day. From thence, in 1826 he moved to Howard county, this state, near where Rochefort now is. He lived there about seven years, teaching school and farming until the spring of 1834, when he moved to Pettis county and located at a point twelve miles west of where Sedalia now is. At this place he died September 3, 1835. The subject of this sketch, Moses G. Mullins, was but fifteen years old, and the oldest of seven children, when his father died, and the care of the widowed mother and family devolved mainly upon him. He lived at this place and cared for his mother until he was twenty-six years of age, when he was married to Kesiah McFarland, a native of Missouri, and they moved to this county in 1847, and to his present residence in the spring of 1850. They had seven children, five daughters and two sons. One daughter died in infancy and one at about thirty years of age. Mr. Mullins lost his first wife April 6, 1876, and is now living with his second. He has been an influential member of the M. E. church since 1841, and has assisted in the organization of two churches. He has 173 acres of land, 100 acres improved and balance wood-land. His mother remained a widow and is still living, aged 77 years. J. P. OZIAS, the subject of this sketch is one of the most prominent and intelligent, as well as enterprising citizens of his township. He has erected a dwelling that is a credit to himself and neighborhood. It is situated upon a very beautiful and sightly spot, commanding a fine view of Warrensburg and surrounding country. He has a beautiful reservoir a few feet from his house, with living water from a never failing spring, elevated by means of wind pump, securing pure and fresh running water. The reservoir is nicely cemented, in which abound the german carp, in great numbers. His model farm contains 225 acres of choice land in a very high state of cultivation, with a splendid barn and numerous out- houses. His orchard is a choice one. Mr. Ozias is a native of Ohio, and was born in Preble county, September 6, 1838. He was educated in the common schools, and lived with his parents until 1861, when he married Miss S. Pretzingea, a native of Ohio, and who died in 1874, leaving three children: Charley O., Newel J. and Oscar E. Mr. O. came to Missouri in 1868, and settled on his present farm. As a farmer, stock raiser and feeder he has been a success. He married his present wife, who was Miss Sarah Conrad, in 1875. She is a native of Ohio. Mr. O.'s parents were originally from North Carolina, and were of French extraction. Mr. O. and his wife are prominent members of the Presbyterian church. ALBERT OWINGS, farmer, P. O. Centerview, born in Frederick county, Maryland, July 23, 1845. He came to Missouri with his parents in 1856. His father, H.N. Owings, was also a native of Maryland, and born June 8, 1799. He died in 1867, having been one of the leading Masons of Maryland. Albert's paternal great-grandfather came from Scotland, and his maternal grandfather came from Germany. The subject of this sketch was reared in this county, attending school here and at Prof. Kemper's school at Boonville. He clerked a short time in a store, then engaged in farming. He married April 5, 1866, Miss Narcissa Fitterling, daughter of Jacob Fitterling, a native of Maryland. She is a lady of estimable qualities. They have one son living: Charles A. Earnest died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Owings are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian church. Mr. Owings is also a large and successful stock raiser. He has a fine residence and two large farms. NATHAN W. PERRY Prominent among the worthy and substantial farmers of Johnson county is the subject of this brief notice. His well stocked and cultivated farm is about three miles north of Centerview, in one of the most highly productive regions in the state. Col. N. W. Perry, as he is usually called, was born in the sunny South, state of Tennessee, in the year 1830. In the year 1842 he went to Georgia, and at the age of eighteen he walked all the way to Clermont county, Ohio, for the purpose of attending school. After spending one year at school he went to St. Louis, and thence to Lexington, Missouri. When he came to this state he had but seventy-five cents in his pocket; this was his capital stock. He was first married to Miss Lizzie Houx, who lived but a short time thereafter. Two years after the death of his first wife he married Miss Bettie Rice, daughter of Pleasant Rice, the first permanent settler of this county. They have one daughter, Lizzie, who is at home with her parents. Col. Perry has been one of the most successful school teachers in the county. He clerked in the United States Land Office about four years. He purchased his present farm of about 640 acres in the year 1858. He raises large numbers of cattle, sheep, horses, mules and hogs. During the war much of his personal property was lost. His front lawn is adorned with beautiful maples, which he planted twenty years ago. Mr. Perry is a staunch Democrat, which party he has rendered lasting service. He is independent and fearless in his strict adherence to those principles which he believes to be right, and for the good of humanity. He has long been a resident of this county, and stands high in the estimation of all who know him. WILEY H. PHILLIPS, P. O. Holden, farmer, was born in Illinois in 1836. He spent his youth on a farm, and came to Missouri in 1870, locating near Holden. He has been on his present farm about five years, and is one of the most successful wheat growers in his neighborhood. He was married in Kentucky, September 28, 1873, to Miss Lydia Bise, daughter of Henry L. Bise. By this union they have four children: Mary E., Mattie B., Wiley H. and Nellie P. Mr. P. now owns 560 acres of land, all in cultivation and well improved. JOHN PINKERTON, section three, Centerview township, was born in Preble county, Ohio, in 1830. Moved from thence to Rush county when a boy. In 1849 moved to Peoria county, Illinois, and lived in Peoria and Henderson counties, Illinois, till 1871, and then moved to Clay county, Illinois, and in 1874 moved to his present residence in Centerview township. He was married about 1852 to Miss Sarah J. Leslie. They have had ten children, eight of whom are now living. Mr. Pinkerton has 367 acres of land, all under cultivation, except seventeen acres of wood-land. His residence is six miles from Holden, and about three miles from Centerview, and is pleasantly situated, commanding an extensive view of the surrounding country. From his house can be seen the four villages; Holden, Warrensburg, Centerview and Kingsville. REV. JAMES S. POAGE, pastor of the Presbyterian church of Centerview. Was born in Brown county, Ohio. July 13, 1821. He continued to reside in Brown county until attaining his majority. He spent his youth on a farm. Entered Ripley college, and took a regular college course, graduating in 1841, after which he entered the Lane Theological Seminary, and pursued his studies until his health failed him, when he went south. On his return he studied medicine, and look a course of lectures. Finding that his health was very much improved, he finished his theological course, when he was ordained at Felicity, Ohio, and preached in that place seven years. From this place he went to West Alexander. In 1857 he went to Mercer county, Illinois, where he spent some eighteen years, and in 1875 came to Missouri, and took charge of his present congregation at Centerview, which, under his direction, has prospered; having to-day a new church and out of debt. E. B. REPP. Among the practical farmers of this township, none are more worthy than the subject of this notice. He is a native of Maryland, and was born on March 12, 1820. He spent his youth on a farm. Received a limited education at the common schools. His father and mother were both natives of Maryland. He came to Missouri in 1866, purchased 160 acres of land and went in debt for part of it. In 1845 he was married to Miss Susan Wolf, daughter of H. Wolf, Esq. Mr. Repp has had wonderful success as a wheat raiser. His theory of growing wheat is based on actual practice. He has contributed much knowledge in this particular direction. He now owns two large farms in a very high state of cultivation, with good substantial buildings, which he has made by growing wheat. Mr. R. is a prominent member of the German Baptist church. He is quite successful as a cattle feeder, shipping his stock by the car load. He raised a family of seven children. REV. J. A. SHERRARD, minister of the U. P. church, was born in Ohio, on August 21, 1853. He received his primary education in the common schools, after which he went to the Cambridge Union school; leaving this, he taught for one year and then entered college, and graduated in 1876, after which he attended a theological seminary in Ohio, then went to the U. P. theological seminary at Alleghany City, Pennsylvania, and graduated there in 1879, and came to Missouri in the following summer, locating in Centerview, where he became pastor of the U. P. church in the fall of 1880, which position he still holds. The church has been very prosperous under his direction. He was licensed in Bloomfield, Ohio, and preached his first sermon in Centerview. He was married in 1874 to Miss Alice A. Wallace, daughter of David Wallace, Esq. By this union they have three daughters: Clara B., May L. and Alice Maud, all born in Ohio. Mr. Sherrard's mother was a native of West Virginia, and is now in her seventy-third year. His father died in the fall of 1876, at the age of eighty-five. PETER SHAINHOLTZE, was born in Chester county, Pennsylvania, in the year 1815. Although Mr. Shainholtze is well advanced in years, he still retains a great deal of vigor of mind and body. His father died while he was yet a child. He moved with his mother and family to Muskingum county, Ohio. He lived in Ohio forty-two years, following his occupation of farmer and dealer in real estate. He traveled over this county, prospecting, in 1866, and bought the most of the farm he now owns in that year. Moved his family in the year 1868. He was married in the year 1850, in Ohio, to Mrs. Frances J. Conner. They have three living children, whose names are: John, Joseph L. and Surrah Emily. He owns in this township, 600 acres of fine land, about 300 of which is in a high state of cultivation. During his long life he has constantly recognized his duty towards the rising generation, and has been active and liberal in support of the church of his choice, and other benevolent and progressive enterprises that tended to advance the moral and material interests of the neighborhood. He contributed liberally to build the O. S. Presbyterian church at Centerview and Warrensburg. ROBERT SPILLMAN, who is the subject of this sketch, was born in Medina county, Ohio, in the year 1818. When he was a young man he moved to the state of Indiana, in the year 1837, and while there was married to Miss Abigail Stoops, in the year 1840. They have had four children; three of whom are now living: G. W., E. T. and J. D. He moved back to Ohio and remained there a number of years, and then moved back to the state of Indiana, in the year 1847, where most of his children were born. After farming a number of years in that state, he came to look at the lands of Johnson county, in the year 1865; and after satisfying himself that the lands in this county were desirable, he bought some land in April of that year, but did not move his family until the month of August following, and has lived in Centerview township ever since. He has been school director of the township for ten years, and during his residence in the township has never known an entire failure of crops. In later years he has turned his attention more to raising stock. Being of decided literary taste and culture, he has gathered a fine miscellaneous library, which he intended for the instruction and thorough education of his children. ABRAHAM STONER, deceased. Few men have passed away, whose memory is more cherished than the subject of this notice. He was a native of Maryland, and was born in the year 1827. He spent his youth on a farm. He was educated at Baker College, Maryland, and as a mathematician, had few equals. After leaving college he taught school for several years. In 1853 he married Miss Susan Roger, daughter of Jesse Roger. She was born and raised in Carroll county, Md. Mr. Stoner continued to reside in Maryland, until 1867, when he came to Missouri, and settled on the farm on which his family is now living; his landed estate numbering 550 acres. He erected a fine substantial brick residence, and died soon after, in 1875. He was a prominent member of the Brethren church at his death. His family consists of six children: Daniel P., Laroy, Susan L., Robert R., Jennie A. and Mary C. Mrs. Stoner is a lady of fine executive ability, taking charge of her beautiful home and fine farm. She is a member of the same church as that of her husband. REV. JOSIAH THOMPSON, minister of the Presbyterian church. Was born in Washington county, Pa., August 24, 1820. He graduated at Jefferson college, in 1845. He then entered the Theological Seminary of Alleghany City, attending two sessions, when he left school on account of ill health. In 1856, he was licensed, and was ordained, January 14, 1858. He continued to preach in his native state until 1867, when he came to Missouri. In 1873, he returned to Pennsylvania, where he remained until the spring of 1878, when he again came to Missouri, where he has resided ever since. He was married in Pennsylvania, October 14, 1847, to Miss Elizabeth G. George, daughter of Jacob George, and a fine estimable lady. By this union they have had three children: Jacob G., John A. and Ella M. Mr. T. owns a fine farm, well improved, with a fine residence and good barn. He has a fine young orchard and vineyard. THOMAS E. TORBOT, was born in Virginia, February 15, 1830. He came to Missouri with his parents in 1848. He first engaged in the mercantile business, as clerk at Boonville, Alasco, and other points, and afterwards at Waverly, Mo. He came to Johnson county, in 1859, and commenced dealing in stock, and followed this until 1872. Mr. T. is a brother of Dr. John S. Torbot, the celebrated physician, who now lives in Cass county, Mo. In 1862, Mr. T. was appointed justice of the peace, and served two years, after which he resigned, having moved out of the township. Mr. Torbot's father, Samuel Torbot, was a native of Virginia, and died in Missouri, in 1850. His mother was also a native of Virginia, and died in 1880. HON. GEO. WASHINGTON, who is the subject of this sketch, was born near Charlestown, West Virginia, Dec. 9, 1830. He removed with a colony of friends and relatives, to Johnson county Mo., in March 1856. From here he went to California, in June, 1857. He was cashier of customs, under his brother, B. F. Washington, who was at that time U. S. collector of customs, for the port of San Francisco. He also edited the daily, and weekly National, during the year 1858, and in 1859, in conjunction with Geo. P. Johnson, he obtained a license to practice law in the supreme court of California. Resigning his position of cashier of customs, he returned to Missouri during the summer of 1861, and entered the Confederate service. He was wounded and captured, during one of Price's raids, near Fort Scott, Oct. 25, 1864, and was sent to Johnson Island, and remained there until the fall of Richmond. He was then transferred to Cairo, from thence to New Orleans, and finally exchanged at the mouth of the Red River, May 4, 1865. He returned to St. Louis, in the summer of 1865, and to Johnson county, in the spring of 1866. He was married at Otterville, Cooper county, Mo., on the 11th of April, 1871, to Mary Virginia Dempsey, of Otterville, Mo. The children by this marriage are: Robert Washington, born, March 17, 1872, died in infancy; Vernon De Hertburn Washington, born, July 27, 1876, and Mary Virginia Washington, born, June 14, 1873. He has held the office of county judge, from 1872 to 1878, and at present holds the office of justice of the peace, and postmaster at this place. The fortunate possessor of this illustrious name has a very interesting genealogy, which fully identifies him as a collateral kinsman of the Washington family. The genealogical tree and branches are as follows: Hon. Geo. Washington of Centerview, who is a son of John Thornton Augustine Washington, (ensign during the war,) who was the son of Samuel Washington, the oldest full brother of Gen. Geo. Washington of hallowed memory. JOHN J. WHARTON, druggist and pharmacist; was born in Stevensburg, Va., Aug. 4, 1840. He spent his youth in his native state. He graduated at the Ohio school of pharmacy, about the year 1856, after which he came to Missouri, and located about three miles south of Centerview. In 1858, he was appointed deputy clerk, which position he held until 1861, when he joined the confederate army, and participated in many hotly contested battles. After the war he went to Cooper county, where he remained until 1881, when he came to Centerview and opened a fine drug store, which he still conducts in an excellent manner, his store being filled with a complete stock of medicines. Mr. W.'s mother is a native of Virginia, and is still living in Cass county. T. JEP. WHITSETT, Sec. 36, P. O. Centerview; was born at Mount Hebron, Lafayette county, Missouri, Oct. 22, 1832. His father, Rev. John R. Whitsett, was a Cumberland Presbyterian preacher, was born in Kentucky, May 3, 1803, and moved to Old Franklin, Howard county, Mo., in 1818. He was one of the pioneer preachers, and did valiant service as one of the first settlers of the country. Not alone did he carry the glad news of salvation to those who had cabins away out on the borders of civilization, but helped the pioneer to drive back the bands of hostile Indians, who persistently opposed the progress of the white man, and he often in his travels as a preacher also had to confront the wild beasts of the forest, that some times slinked along the wild and lonely paths he was obliged to travel, and disputed with him the passages in the wilderness. About the year 1824, he moved to what was then Lafayette county, which embraced also the present Johnson county, and located near where Columbus now is. In 1842, he moved to Centerview, and then died, Aug 11, 1879, being 76 years old at his death. His son, T. J. Whitsett, with whose name this sketch commences, has lived in Centerview most of the time for the last 39 years. He is a farmer and stock dealer, and owns about 560 acres of land. He has been quite an extensive traveler in this and some in other lands. GILBERT P. WHITSETT, stock dealer. Among the enterprising citizens of Centerview, may be mentioned Mr. G. P. Whitsett, who was born in Johnson county, January, 1845. He is the second son of John R. Whitsett, a native of Kentucky. In 1874, Gilbert P. was married to Miss Georgia Mitchell, of Centerview, a native of Kentucky, and daughter of T. H. Mitchell, Esq. He then engaged in the grain and live stock business, and followed this until 1881, when he opened a livery stable, and is at present engaged in the livery business. He has three children living: Jeddie P., Mary M. and Birdie H. Mr. Whitsett's mother was a native of Tennessee, and was a daughter of James Cull. C. E. WILLIAMS, farmer, was born in Lawrence county, April 4, 1845. He received his early education in his native county. He served in the Union army, and located in Jasper county, Iowa, at the close of the war, where he remained about three years, and then came to Missouri in January, 1868, locating on his present farm, where he has resided ever since. His farm contains 480 acres, the greater part in cultivation, with a good, substantial bank barn. He has here been engaged in farming and raising stock. He was married in 1871 to Miss Alice A. Huggins, daughter of widow Huggins, a native of Ohio. Mr. W. is a prominent member of the U. P. church, and has been one of its elders since 1877. He is at present the superintendent of the Sunday school. He has two children, Emma B. and Howard N. Mrs. W.'s mother is still living.