Mr. Blackwell worked as operator helper and operator in the Surface Prospecting Department; painter in House Repair Shop; laborer in the Yard Department; trackman and maintenance man in Federal, Leadwood and Indian Creek mines; laborer and general helper in the Leadwood mill. Prior to 1943 he worked as mail carrier at the Bonne Terre Post Office and later operated a service station and worked for Blackwell Chevrolet Company in Bonne Terre.

The Blackwells have four sons: Charles R. Blackwell of St. Charles; Lynn E. Blackwell, St. Louis; Eugene E. Blackwell lives in Bonne Terre and works as surveyor for St. Joe; and Carroll L. Blackwell of Ferguson, Mo. They have ten grandchildren.

Mr. Blackwell served in the U.S. Army for one year during 1918-1919, and was stationed at Camp Bowie, Texas. He is a member of the American Legion and the following Masonic organizations: Blackwell Lodge No. 535, Council No. 29, Bonne Terre; Eual Chapter, Royal Arch Masons, DeSoto Commandery 456, Knights Templar, Scottish Rite Order of St. Louis and Mineral Area Scottish Rite Club.