Genealogical and Biographical Record of North-Eastern
Kansas
The Lewis Publishing Company, Chicago, 1900
L-P
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T W LANGAN
In the record of those who had been prominently identified with the development
and progress of Doniphan county it is imperative that definite consideration be
granted to the subject of this review, for not only is he a prominent
representative of the agricultural interests of this favored section, but has
the distinction of being one of the pioneers of the golden west, with whose
fortunes he has been identified for fully forty years, concerned with various
business and political interests, and so ordering his life as to gain and retain
the confidence and esteem of his fellow men.
Mr. Langan is a native of the Emerald Isle, where his birth occurred in 1844.
His parents, Thomas and Mary (Quinn) Langan, had a family of the following
children: James, who is living in the state of Washington; Eliza, deceased; Mary
Anne, Barney, Ellen and Julia, who have all passed away; Kate; Michael, a
resident of Wayne township, Doniphan county; Bridget, also deceased; Thomas; and
Joseph, who is deceased. The father of this family died in Ireland, and in 1846
the mother came with her family to the United States, taking up her abode in St.
Joseph, Missouri. In 1858 she came to Doniphan county and purchased the old
family homestead of one hundred and sixty acres.
The subject of this review was a child of only two years at the time of the
emigration to America. He was educated in the public schools of Missouri, and
also spent a year in St. Benedict Academy. In 1857 he came to Doniphan county,
and is therefore familiar with the history of its pioneer life.
In 1864 he went to the mountains of Colorado, where he remained for two years,
engaged in freighting and mining. In 1868 he went to Helena, Montana, and to
Nevada, where he engaged in freighting and prospecting. The following year he
returned to Kansas and purchased his present farm since which time he has been
extensively engaged in stock-raising. He owns seven hundred and sixty acres of
valuable land, one of the largest farms in the county, located ten miles from
Troy. He raises a high grade of cattle and feeds all of the grain which he
cultivates on the farm. His business interests are conducted with method and
enterprise, and his large sales bring to him a handsome income.
Mr. Langan was married, in 1885, to Miss Mary Waller, who was reared and
educated in Atchison, and is a lady of superior education and cultured tastes.
Her father, George M. WaIler, was born in Kentucky in 1831, and with his parents
removed to St. Joseph, Missouri, in 1844. Ten years later he located in Doniphan
county, and for a long period was numbered among the leading and influential
citizens of the community. He married Miss Mary Ann Smith, a native of Kentucky,
who died about seventy years ago. They became the parents of seven children, of
whom six are now living, namely: Sarah M. Hudnall; James T., a resident of
Kansas City; Mrs. Helen Low, Joshua A., George B., Mrs. Langan, and Felix, who
has passed away. The father of this family is a Democrat in his political views,
and socially is a Mason, having become a member of that fraternity in St. Joseph
in 1847. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Langan have been born four children -- Agnes, Helen,
Morris and Ruth.
Mr. Langan takes an active interest in political affairs, casting his ballot for
the men and measures of the Democracy. He has served as a delegate to numerous
state and county conventions, and for three terms filled the office of county
treasurer, his re-elections indicating the ability and fidelity with which he
discharged his duties. In 1898 he was a member of the state legislature. In
manner he is frank and cordial, a gentleman of keen discernment and marked
ability, and enjoys the respect of his fellow men, and is very popular in, the
county which he makes his home. He has demonstrated his public spirit in many
ways, amid is regarded as one of Wayne township's most useful and progressive
citizens.
HENRY L LEWIS
Among the valued employees of the Burlington Railroad at Atchison, Kansas, is
Henry L. Lewis, general agent for the company at this point. Mr. Lewis is a
native of New York. He was born on a farm in Herkimer county July 24, 1858, a
son of James H. and Mary E. (Stewart) Lewis, both natives of that state. The
family removed to Ford county, Illinois, when Henry L. was quite small and there
he passed his boyhood days and acquired his education in the common schools. He
began his railroad career at the age of sixteen years, when he entered the
employ of the Toledo, Peoria & Warsaw Railroad Company. For seven years he was
with that corporation, a part of the time acting as agent and operator. In 1879
he entered the employ of the Burlington & Missouri Railroad and was with it
until he accepted his present position, that of general agent for the Burlington
system.
Mr. Lewis was married, in 1884, to Miss Mary E. Bank, of Odell, Illinois, a
daughter of Samuel Bank, and they are the parents of two children, a son and a
daughter, George F. and Ina. For some years Mr. Lewis has been actively
identified with the Masonic order and has advanced through the various degrees
of the same up to and including those of the commandery. He holds membership in
Friend Lodge, No. 73, at Friend, Nebraska; Mount Hebron Chapter, and Mount
Hebron Commandery, No. 12, K. T.
CHARLES LINLEY
Charles Linley, county treasurer of Atchison county and a resident of the county
seat, was born in that city, which is still his home, July 10, 1867. His father,
Dr. J. M. Linley, is one of the early settlers and leading physicians of
Atchison and has secured a very liberal patronage as a member of the medical
fraternity, his skill and ability winning him prestige among medical
practitioners in this part of the state. He is a native of Kentucky, as is his
wife, who bore the maiden name of Mary A. Hubbard.
Under the parental roof Charles Linley spent his boyhood days and when he had
mastered the rudimentary branches of learning he entered the high school, and
still later continued his education in the State University at Lawrence, Kansas,
where he pursued his studies through several terms. Thus well equipped with
broad knowledge for the practical and responsible duties of life, he entered the
First National Bank of Atchison, where he was employed in various capacities for
seven years. On the expiration of that period he accepted the position of deputy
treasurer, under J. C. McCully, and was continued in the position under William
Bowman, Mr. McCully's successor. In the fall of 1899 he was elected to the
office, and his long experience as deputy well qualified him for the able
discharge of the responsible duties devolving upon him.
In June, 1890, Mr. Linley was united in marriage to Miss Maria Riddell, of
Atchison, and to them has been born a son, Robert. In his political affiliations
Mr. Linley has always been a Republican, firm in support of the principles of
the party. He has served for two years as a member of the school board of
Atchison, and for three years has been secretary of the Republican central
committee. He has also served on the county central committee and does all in
his power to promote the growth and insure the success of his party, whose
platform, he believes, embodies the best elements of good government.
WILLIAM B LOVELACE
When a man is spoken of only in the highest terms by those who have known him
during his entire life, the public may rest assured that he is perfectly
trustworthy and deserving of respect, for no more competent judges can be found
than those who have watched the development of the child into the man, and
witnessed the gradual formation of his character. When, therefore, the citizens
of his locality, with one accord, have nothing but praise for the subject of
this sketch, no higher tribute can be paid him.
He is a native of the vicinity of Rochester, New York, his birth having occurred
April 28, 1852. He is of Scotch extraction on the paternal side, and is a son of
Daniel and Elizabeth (Graham) Lovelace, natives of New York city, the latter a
daughter of a soldier of the war of 1812. In 1858 the Lovelace family came to
Kansas, settling near Monrovia, and from that time until his death, Daniel
Lovelace was numbered among the esteemed citizens of Atchison county, in the
development of which he did his full share. He was, first of all, a patriot,
devoted to the welfare of his country, and when in the prime of manhood he
served in the Mexican war. His widow, who is still living upon the old
homestead, is granted a pension by the government in return for her late
husband's valiant service. He was sixty-five years of age at the time of his
death, and his memory is treasured in the hearts of many of his old time
friends. After the organization of the Republican party he was one of its
stalwart adherents. Religiously he was a Baptist, actively interested in the
spreading of the gospel. He had three sons and one daughter, namely: William B.,
George W. of Grasshopper township; John; and Harriet, wife of Thomas McPhilliney,
of Benton township.
When he was about six years old, William B. Lovelace came to northeastern
Kansas, and here he attended the public schools, which, it is needless to say,
were vastly inferior to those of the present day. Until he attained his majority
he worked steadily upon the home farm, learning the lessons of industry and
perseverance which were the foundations of his success in later years. For about
a score of years he has devoted his time and attention to the cultivation of his
fine homestead in Kapioma township. The house and farm buildings are kept in
excellent repair, and everything about the premises bespeaks the constant care
the owner exercises over his possessions. An orchard of two and a half acres
supplies the family with an abundance of fruit, besides affording some for the
market at times.
Mr. Lovelace does not neglect his duty to the general public in his solicitude
for providing generously for his family. He has served in numerous local offices
of trust, discharging his duties with marked ability. Among others, he has held
the offices of justice of the peace and constable. Politically he is a Democrat,
and fraternally he is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America.
In January, 1879, Mr. Lovelace and Matilda Raasch were married at the home of
the bride's father, William Raash, who was one of the first settlers in this
township, and has passed to his reward. Mrs. Lovelace was born near Madison,
Wisconsin, but grew to womanhood in this state. She is the mother of two sons
and two daughters, namely: Alfonso W., Dessie, Gustavus and Hattie, who are
nineteen; sixteen, twelve and seven years old, respectively. The family are
regular attendants of the Adventist church, and contribute to the cause of
religion and other worthy measures.
JAMES C LOWER
Success comes not to the man who idly waits with folded arms and rarely to one
who does not put forth his most earnest efforts, and thus, in a measure at
least, success must always he an indication of merit, of persistent, able
effort. Thus we find it in the case of J. C. Lower, one of the representative
farmers of Atchison county, which boasts a host of the most progressive
agriculturists in the Union.
He is a son of Henry and Sarah Ann (Sandy) Lower, natives of Tennessee and
Indiana, respectively. They removed to Buchanan county, Missouri, at an early
day and were identified with the farmers of that locality until death claimed
them. The father, who died in 1895, was seventy-six years of age, and the
mother, who died in 1890, was sixty-eight years of age. They were members of the
Christian church, the father holding the office of an elder for years. They were
the parents of six daughters and four sons, namely: Louisa, Sarah, Mary Ellen,
Martha Eveline, Anna, Lilly, John W., James C., Isaac N. and Henry M.
James C. Lower was born in Buchanan county, Missouri, September 1, 1853. In his
boyhood he early learned to be of great service to his father in the management
of the farm, and during a portion of each year attended the district schools.
Being industrious and ambitious to make a name and place for himself, he soon
accumulated a little capital and as the years passed it became evident that he
would not be left behind in the race which he was making with other young men of
his age. In 1878 he came to Lancaster township and purchased some wild land,
which he proceeded to reduce to a state of cultivation. To-day he is the owner
of two hundred and thirty-eight acres, two acres having been contributed by him
to the public schools. Large barns and farm buildings, shade trees and a
well-kept barn-yard and lawn speak louder than words of the care exercised by
the enterprising proprietor. A few years ago he went to Oklahoma, where he
remained for some time, and as a result he now owns three hundred and twenty
acres of splendid farm land there, it being located in Kingfisher county.
For a score of years Mr. Lower has found an able and devoted helpmate in the
person of his estimable wife, whose maiden name was Talitha J. Potter. Their
marriage was solemnized March 17, 1880, at the home of her father, Tinsley
Potter. a pioneer of this county now residing in Effingham. Mrs. Lower was
reared to womanhood in Benton township and by her marriage has become the mother
of five children. Claude Curtis, aged seventeen years, is a student at the
county high school at Effingham, as is his sister, Erna Adeline. Ada F., Lillie
and Ray are at home.
For many years Mr. Lower was an efficient member of the school board,
manifesting the deep interest which he takes in the important subject of
education for the young. Politically he follows in his father's footsteps. being
identified with the Democratic party. His means and influence are used for the
good of his fellow men and the local Christian church has no more loyal,
generous member.
THOMAS LYONS
A well known farmer of Doniphan county, now living retired, Thomas Lyons claims
the Emerald Isle as the place of his birth, which occurred in county Mayo in
1825, his parents being John and Mary (Kahn) Lyons. They were also natives of
the same isle, born in the parish of Keck, where they spent their entire lives.
Thomas was reared at his parental home and the educational privileges which he
enjoyed were those afforded by the county schools. At the age of thirteen he put
aside his text books and began working for his cousin, who was living upon a
farm, continuing in his employ for several years. He lost his father when seven
years of age and was only twelve years old at the time of his mother's death, so
that he was early forced to begin the battle of life for himself. After three
and a half years spent in the service of John Lyons he entered the employ of
another cousin, Patrick Lyons, with whom he also remained for three and a half
years. On the expiration of that period he went to England, where he was
employed for three years, and in 1850 he took passage on a westward bound
vessel, which dropped anchor in the harbor of New Orleans after a voyage of
seven weeks and two days. From the Crescent city he made his way to Cincinnati,
Ohio, and in that vicinity secured employment as a farm hand. In November, 1856,
he followed the tide of emigration which steadily drifted westward and thus
became a resident of Doniphan county, Kansas, where he pre-empted one hundred
and sixty acres of land on section 33, Wolf River township. His first home was a
little cabin, 16 x 17 feet. He was employed by Charles H. Phillips and Jacob
Bennett through the first season of his residence in this locality and in 1857
began to break his own land, following that work by the planting of crops. Soon
abundant harvests rewarded his efforts and later he extended his labors by
engaging in the stock raising and grain business. He was very energetic,
industrious and resolute, and thus was enabled to augment his capital and from
time to time he has extended the boundaries of his farm until it comprises four
hundred and twenty acres of land, on section 33. He erected there a substantial
residence, good barns, corncribs and sheds, and placed the land under a high
state of cultivation, the arable fields yielding to him a golden tribute in
return for the care and labor he bestowed upon them. He was one of the most
successful wheat growers in the state, having in one year harvested three
thousand bushels of wheat in addition to ten thousand bushels of corn and
sixteen thousand bushels of oats. These cereals he sold at good prices and
realized therefrom a large profit. He also raised considerable barley at one
time and sold that grain as high as one dollar and twenty-five cents a bushel.
On one occasion he disposed of four car-loads of wheat to the firm of Bowen &
Blair, millers of Atchison, Kansas. His stock raising efforts also brought him a
good income, specially dealing in hogs.
On the 27th of September, 1856, Mr. Lyons married Miss Mary Heeney, a native of
Butler county, Ohio, and a daughter of Edward Heeney, who is still living, at
the very advanced age of one hundred and two years. He is remarkably well
preserved, being in the possession of all his faculties. The marriage of Mr. and
Mrs. Lyons has been blessed with seven children, four sons and three daughters,
namely: John M. who died in 1898, at the age of forty years, leaving five
children; Edward; James J., who is engaged in the dry-goods and grocery business
and is regarded as one of the leading merchants of Severance, Kansas; Margaret,
who died at the age of fourteen years; Rosa, the wife of D. P. Delaney, the
clerk of the court and general agent for the McCormick Company in eastern
Kansas; Barney E., a dealer in hardware and groceries in Everest, Kansas; and
Mary, who is a student in the convent in St. Joseph, Missouri.
In 1892 Mr. Lyons moved his family to Severance, where he has since lived. He
leases his property and the rental therefrom brings a handsome income of
seventeen hundred dollars a year. He is now well advanced in life, having passed
the psalmist's span of three-score years and ten, but age rests lightly upon him
and he possesses the vigor of many a man of younger years. His life has been one
of activity and usefulness and to his family, when death shall call him, he will
leave not only a handsome property but also an untarnished name.
JORDAN O MARCELL
The traveler to-day who looks upon the enterprising towns and villages and the
highly cultivated farms of Doniphan county finds it difficult to realize that
less than half a century ago this was a wild and barren tract, uninhabited by
white settlers, but there came to northeastern Kansas a band of sturdy,
determined men and women who founded homes in this wild region. Through their
efforts the raw prairie was made to bloom and blossom as the rose and the work
of civilization has been carried forward by them and their children until
Doniphan county takes rank with any in this great commonwealth and its evidences
of civilization are on a par with those of the older counties of the east.
Jordan O. Marcell is one who came to this locality when it was a frontier
region. he was born in Jessamine county, Kentucky, October 30, 1840, and is of
Swiss lineage. His grandfather, John Marcell, came to the United States from
Switzerland in 1805 and for a time resided in Georgetown, D. C. From that point
he removed with his family to Kentucky, locating in Jessamine county. He had one
son and three daughters, the former being Charles Marcell, the father of our
subject. He was born in Switzerland in 1802 and was therefore very young at the
time of the emigration of his parents to America. With the family he went to
Jessamine county, Kentucky, and after residing there for some time took up his
abode in Franklin county, that state. On coming to Kansas he located at the
agency of the Iowa Indians, cultivating the agency farm for one year. He then
located on a farm in Wolf River township, Doniphan county, owning land upon
sections 1, 3 and 19. Here he spent his remaining days. In Kentucky he had
married Miss Elizabeth Utley, a daughter of Isaac Utley, who was a farmer of
that state. Their children are Julia, the wife of John Burchfield, of Brown
county; Nancy, who became the wife of Joseph Davis and after his death wedded
Robert Davis, a resident of Hiawatha, Kansas; Jordan O.; Mary, the wife of
Robert Burchfield, of Reserve, Kansas; Alvina, the wife of Douglas Hancock, of
Severance; and Charles L., who is one of the progressive and prosperous farmers
of Doniphan county. He was married at the age of nineteen years to Miss Margaret
Burchfield and is the father of ten children.
Jordan O. Marcell spent the first eighteen years of his life in Jessamine and
Franklin counties, Kentucky, and then accompanied his father to Kansas, where he
assisted in the work of the home farm until about the time he attained his
majority. He thus aided in the arduous task of developing the new land and
experienced all the hardships and trials that fall to the lot of the frontier
settler. In 1862, prompted by a spirit of patriotism, he enlisted in the
Thirteenth Kansas Volunteer Regiment, under Colonel Bowen, and was mustered in
at Atchison. His command became a part of the First Division of the Seventh Army
Corps and went south to Arkansas, first engaging the Confederate troops at Cain
Hill and later participated in the battle of Prairie Grove. After that
engagement the regiment spent much time on the march in Louisiana and Arkansas
and when hostilities had ended was mustered out at Little Rock. Mr. Marcell
enlisted as a private and for meritorious service was promoted to the rank of
corporal and after almost three years connection with the army he received an
honorable discharge and returned to his home.
With the money that he had saved from his meager army salary he began the
improvement of his present fine farm and as a companion and helpmeet on life's
journey married Miss Margaret Jeffers, a daughter of Lewis Jeffers, who came to
Kansas from Buchanan county, Missouri, but resided at Agency, Missouri, where
Mrs. Marcell was born fifty-three years ago. The marriage of our subject and his
wife was celebrated on the 25th of January, 1866, and has been blest with the
following children: Della, the wife of John Tharp, of Doniphan county; Charles,
who resides with his parents and is one of the enterprising young farmers and
stock dealers of the county; Bertie, the wife of Jesse Blevins, of Doniphan
county; Ella, the wife of John Lewis, a resident of the same county; and Violet,
who is with her parents.
When Mr. Marcell began farming he located upon an eighty-acre tract of land and
has since extended the boundaries of his place until he now owns two hundred
acres, the greater part of which is under a high state of cultivation. He has
successfully carried on general farming, his efforts being directed by
intelligence. His methods are practical and progressive and knowing the value of
the rotation of crops and understanding the underlying principles of successful
farming he has won a prosperity which is well merited, He has the esteem of his
fellow men and is regarded as a representative citizen of the community,
manifesting the same loyalty to all duties of citizenship that he displayed upon
the battle fields of the south when he aided in the defense of the old flag.
ISAAC MARIS
Every one in Center township and largely throughout the county and state knows
and highly esteems Isaac Maris, one of the pioneers of this locality, who, more
than four decades ago cast in his lot with the then few inhabitants of
northeastern Kansas. His resemblance to our martyr president, Abraham Lincoln,
is so marked that strangers seeing him frequently inform him of the fact, and he
feels truly highly honored and greatly flattered. Like the immortal chief
executive, he is tall, being fully six feet and two inches in height, and
possesses the same regal bearing, though quiet and unostentatious in
disposition.
In tracing the ancestry of Isaac Maris it is ascertained that his forefather,
George Maris, came to this country from England as early as 1680, taking up his
abode in Pennsylvania. Our subject's grandfather, Joseph Maris, also lived in
the Keystone state, as did several generations of the family, and was prominent
in the Society of Friends. Jonathan Maris, the father of our subject, was born
in Chester county, Pennsylvania, in 1800, and in 1820 went with his parents to
Ohio, locating in Goshen township, Mahoning county. He learned the trade of a
stone mason, but gave his attention to agriculture chiefly. In January, 1864, he
was summoned to the better land and was survived a few years by his wife,
Thomason, who attained the age of seventy-five years. She was a daughter of
Joseph and Rachel (Zilley) Morris, and was born in New Jersey, in 1802. Jonathan
Maris and wife lived to see their ten children grow to maturity and occupy
honored places in the communities where they dwelt. They were especially proud
of the fact that not one of the eight sons used strong liquors or tobacco.
Reared as they were, in an atmosphere of loving sympathy and helpfulness, in
almost an ideal home, in truth, it is not strange, after all, that without
exception they were strong, noble characters, devoted to religion and all
righteous enterprises. The eldest son and daughter, Barclay and Ann, have passed
into the silent land, Esther, the second daughter, resides in Damascus, Ohio.
Joseph came to Kansas in July, 1857, and after remaining here for two years
returned to his home in the east, where he subsequently died. Caleb is a farmer
and makes his home near Damascus, Ohio. Abraham is engaged in teaching in the
Buckeye state. Jesse gave his life to his country in the civil war, while with
his regiment in Page county, Virginia. Job, who died at the old Ohio homestead,
came to Kansas in the spring of 1866, but dud not long remain here. William, the
youngest of the family and formerly a successful teacher, but now in the grain
and implement business, resides at West Branch, Iowa.
Isaac Maris was born near Salem, Ohio, July 16, 1834, and received good
educational advantages, completing his studies in the high school at Salem. Soon
after arriving at his majority he concluded to try his fortunes in the west, and
on the 7th of September, 1857, he left the old home and friends. The journey,
which was made by railroad and steamboat, consumed seven days. Upon arriving in
this county he pre-empted a quarter section of land and thereon built a log
cabin. In the course of time this was replaced by a comfortable modern house,
and again this was replaced a few years ago by one of the best farm houses in
the county. Substantial barns and other buildings have also been erected. The
land was gradually brought into fine condition, and in return for the labor
expended upon it abundant harvests are garnered each year. In all of his
business enterprises Mr. Maris is judicious and energetic, rarely meeting with
failure. Following in the footsteps of his ancestors, he is actively identified
with the Society of Friends and all phases of Christian work, and for over
thirty years has been a minister of the gospel, loved for his noble life and
high ideals.
After he had established a comfortable, though humble home, Mr. Maris brought to
it his bride, Alma L. Buten, whom he married December 7, 1858. She was a
daughter of Horace and Anna Buten, deceased, and was a native of New York state,
born October 12, 1836. Her father was born in 1808. near Stephentown, New York,
and died when in his thirty-second year, leaving a widow and three children. Her
mother was born in Berlin, New York, in 1806, and died in Kansas, in 1860.
Charles T. Buten, the son, died in this township, August 2, 1899. Kate Buten
became the wife of William Perry, of this township. Three children blessed the
union of Mr. and Mrs. Maris, namely: Jesse Elsworth, Alice M. and Frederic B.
The elder son married Hannah Fogg, of Damascus, Ohio, and their two children are
Edwin I. and Alma D. Alice M., the wife of Thomas Eckles, of this township, has
one child, Fayette Blaine. The younger son of our subject remains at the old
homestead and aids materially in its management. Eva M., an adopted daughter of
our subject and wife, married M. C. Grady, of Cuba, Illinois, and has one child,
Robert Guile.
Upon his arrival in Atchison, Kansas, on the 14th day of September, 1857, Mr.
Maris found a small village situated upon the banks of the Missouri river. He
made his way from there on foot over the beautiful rolling prairies until he
reached the neighborhood of his present home, and the desire he had felt before
leaving Ohio being rekindled in his breast, he resolved to take his place in the
first ranks along with others who were resolved to make the beautiful prairie of
Kansas a great state. For the past forty-three years he has gone hand in hand
and shoulder to shoulder with the noble men and women who have developed the
state of Kansas in all its agricultural, mercantile, mechanical, educational and
religious interests, so that the state to-day along all those lines stands hardy
second to any among the great sisterhood of states. But few have made greater
sacrifices in time or means than Mr. Maris to advance the religious interests of
his county and largely of adjoining counties, For the past thirty-five years he
has been actively engaged in Sunday school work, and at various times has held
the position of president of the township, county and district Sunday school
associations, and at the present writing is one of the executive committee of
the Kansas State Sunday School Association, of which he was a charter member. He
was sent as a delegate from this state to attend the Second World's Sunday
School Convention, which was held in St. Louis in 1893. He has also been a great
temperance worker, taking a life membership in the Kansas State Temperance Union
in 1878. He worked hard to secure for the commonwealth a law prohibiting the
manufacture, use and sale of spirituous liquors, except for mechanical, medical
and scientific purposes, and in the fall of 1880, at the general election, this
question of prohibition was voted upon in the state and was carried by some
eight thousand majority. The vote was confirmed by the legislature in 1880 and
became a part of the state constitution and was carried into effect as a law on
the 1st day of May, 1881. Whatever tends to elevate humanity or advance the best
interests of his county, state and nation receives the support of Mr. Maris, who
is indeed one of the most valued and highly respected residents of Atchison
county.
DAVID MARTIN
High on the roll of Kansas' eminent jurists appears the name of David Martin,
who has occupied the position of chief justice of the state. He was recognized
as one of the ablest lawyers of the commonwealth, and was one of the best judges
who ever occupied a seat upon the bench. The legal profession demands a high
order of ability, and the judiciary, it is unnecessary to say, requires not only
ability but the rare combination of talent, learning, tact and industry. The
successful lawyer and the competent judge must be a man of well balanced
intellect and comprehensive general information, thoroughly familiar with the
law and practice, possessed of an analytical mind, and a self-control that will
enable him to lose his individuality, his personal feelings, his prejudices and
the peculiarities of disposition in the dignity, impartiality and equity of the
office to which life, property, right and liberty must look for protection. In
all of these particulars Judge Martin was well qualified, and in his official
career he honored the state which honored him by elevation to its highest
tribunal.
The Judge was born in Clark county, Ohio, October 16, 1839, and is a son of John
and Eliza (Halliday) Martin. The father was a native of London, England, and
when very young came to the United States. He was married and located in New
York city, and subsequently moved from that place to Clark county, where he made
his home from 1837 until his death. Eliza Halliday, whom he married, was born at
Lisburn, near Belfast, Ireland. His son David spent his boyhood days in the
county of his nativity, where he acquired a good education which served as a
foundation upon which he reared the superstructure of professional knowledge.
Determined to enter the legal profession, he became a student in the law office
of Honorable J. Warren Keifer at Springfield. Ohio, and was admitted to the bar
before the supreme court at Columbus in 1866. In May of the following year he
came to Atchison, where he opened a law office and engaged in general practice.
Gradually his business grew in volume and importance as he demonstrated his
ability to successfully handle the important litigated interests entrusted to
his care. It was not long before he had taken rank among the leading lawyers of
his adopted city, and he was elected as judge of the second judicial district in
1880 and again in 1884, without opposition; but he resigned in April. 1887, and
resumed the practice of the law and continued in the practice until April, 1895,
when he was appointed to the office of chief justice to fill the vacancy caused
by the resignation of Chief Justice Horton. In the following fall he was elected
on the Republican ticket by the handsome majority of over eighty-two thousand,
and served until January, 1897. He took to the bench a mind well stored with
legal lore, a large experience gathered from years of extensive and important
practice, a character that was an assurance that the duties of the high office
would be faithfully administered, and a general natural fitness for the position
that few men possess.
On the expiration of his term Judge Martin removed his law office to Topeka,
Kansas, but retained his home in Atchison, where he has a comfortable residence,
modern in all its appointments. On the 5th of January, 1882, he was married to
Miss Lissa Kibby, the second daughter of William B. and Anna L. Kibby, and a
representative of a prominent old family of Atchison. It was in 1858 that her
father came to this county from Pennsylvania, and here his death occurred on the
14th of May, 1869. Her mother, however, long survived, passing away March 11,
1899. The Judge and his wife have a large circle of friends in the city which
has so long been their home, and their high position in social circles is an
indication of their intellectual and many genial qualities. As a lawyer and
judge, the subject of this review ranks among the foremost, and no history of
Atchison would be complete without the record of his life.
JOHN A MARTIN
No compendium such as the province of this work defines in its essential
limitations will serve to offer fit memorial to the life and accomplishments of
the honored subject of this sketch -- a man remarkable in the breadth of his
wisdom, in his indomitable perseverance, his strong individuality; and yet one
whose entire life had not one esoteric phase, being as an open scroll, inviting
the closest scrutiny. True, his were "massive deeds and great" in one sense, and
yet his entire accomplishment but represented the result of the fit utilization
of the innate talent which was his, and the directing of his efforts along those
lines where mature judgment and rare discrimination lead the way. There was in
Hon. John A. Martin a weight of character, a native sagacity, a far-seeing
judgment and a fidelity of purpose that commanded the respect of all. A man of
indefatigable enterprise and fertility of resource, he carved his name deeply on
the records of Kansas.
Hon. John A. Martin was born March 10, 1839, at Brownsville, Pennsylvania, and
died when in the prime of life, October 2, 1889. His career began when, a boy of
fifteen, he learned to set type in the office of the Brownsville Clipper, and so
rapid was his advancement that in the last year of his apprenticeship he was
both foreman and local editor of that paper. In the spring of 1857, when in his
eighteenth year, he went to Pittsburg and was employed as a compositor on the
Commercial Journal. In the latter part of the same year he came to Kansas and
located at Atchison, where he for a short time set type in the office of the
Squatter Sovereign and subsequently worked on the Crusader of Freedom at
Doniphan.
In February, 1858, Mr. Martin purchased of O. F. Short the Squatter Sovereign,
changed its name to Freedom's Champion and on the 20th of the same month began
his long and successful editorial work in Kansas. From the very beginning of his
career in the state he was, first and last, a stanch and fearless free-state man
and an ardent, stalwart Republican, being one of the organizers of the party in
Kansas, and for twenty-five years the honored chairman of the Atchison county
Republican central committee. He was the secretary of the Wyandotte
constitutional convention and was elected state senator of the district composed
of Atchison and Brown counties before he had reached his twenty-first year. He
was a delegate to the territorial convention at Lawrence April 11, 1860, and to
the national Republican convention which followed shortly afterward. He was
secretary of the state railroad convention which met at Topeka, in 1860, for the
purpose of devising a system of railways for the state, and was a member of the
first state senate in 1861.
The outbreak of the Civil war found this brilliant young man ready to sacrifice
his business prospects and his life, if need be, in preserving the unity of the
government. In the summer of 1861 he assisted in organizing the Eighth Kansas
Infantry, of which he was appointed lieutenant-colonel, and during the fall and
winter of that year was on duty on the Indian border. Early in 1862 he was
appointed provost-marshal of Leavenworth, and in March following was ordered
with his regiment to Corinth, Mississippi, being assigned to the division that
formed a part of General Buell's command in Tennessee. During his entire service
he was with the Army of the Cumberland. On the 1st of November, 1862, he was
promoted to the colonelcy of his regiment and was assigned to duty as
provost-marshal of Nashville, Tennessee, which difficult post he filled with
credit and distinction from December, 1862, to June, 1863. Colonel Martin
participated in the battles of Perryville and Lancaster, Kentucky, in the famous
campaign against Tullahoma and Chattanooga, the battle of Chickamauga, the siege
of Chattanooga and the storming of Missionary Ridge, the campaign in eastern
Tennessee in the winter of 1863-4, the campaign from Chattanooga to Atlanta and
the subsequent pursuit of Hood northward. On the second day of the battle at
Chickamauga, which took place in the latter part of 1864, Colonel Martin was
placed in command of the Third Brigade, First Division, Twentieth Army Corps,
and subsequently commanded the First Brigade, Third Division, Fourth Army Corps,
from August, 1864, until he was mustered out at Pulaski, Tennessee, November 17,
1864. In all these responsible positions he won the highest commendation from
his superior officers and the respect and esteem of the men under him for his
splendid courage and executive ability, as well as for the admirable discipline
which he maintained in his regiment.
After his return home, in January, 1865, Colonel Martin resumed control of the
Champion and on the 22d of March following issued the first number of his paper
as a daily. In addition to his work as an editor Colonel Martin filled many
important civil and political positions. He was the first commander-in-chief of
the state encampment of the Grand Army of the Republic, a delegate from Kansas
to the national Republican conventions of 1860, 1868, 1872 and 1880, a member of
the national Republican committee from 1868 to 1884 and secretary of that body
from 1880 to 1884. He was one of the vice-presidents of the United States
centennial commission and took an active interest in that great exposition in
1876.
Colonel Martin was one of the incorporators of the Kansas Magazine Company, a
member of the State Historical Society, of which he was president one term, and
was president of the State Editorial & Publishers Association in 1878. In the
last mentioned year he was elected by both houses of congress on the board of
managers of the National Soldiers' Home, was, re-elected in 1882 and in 1886 and
at the time of his death was the second vice-president of that association. He
was elected mayor of the city of Atchison in 1865 and was the third postmaster
of that place, an office which he held for twelve years.
Colonel Martin was elected governor of Kansas in 1884 and re-elected in 1886. At
the close of his second gubernatorial term he resumed control of the Champion,
of which he was sole proprietor, and up to a few weeks previous to his death was
at his desk daily, writing and supervising the affairs of his business. He was a
man of strong character, brimful of energy, forceful in his writing and
public-spirited in every way. He was very popular and made friends without any
effort, his death being felt as a personal bereavement as well as a severe loss
to the public at large.
On June 15, 1871, Colonel Martin was married to Miss Ida Challiss, daughter of
Dr. W. L. Challiss, of Atchison, who, with six children, Ruth, Grace, Ethel,
Faith, Paul and Harres, survive him. Evan C. Martin, one of the children, died
September 4, 1892. No name has figured more conspicuously or honorably in
connection with the history of Kansas than that of John A. Martin. He was
connected with the public progress along business and political lines, his
efforts were potent in advancing charitable and benevolent work, and upon the
battle-fields of the south he displayed personal bravery and heroism that
inspired the men whom he commanded to deeds of valor. Certainly the life of no
citizen of this commonwealth has been more varied in service, more firm in
principle, more blameless in conduct and more stainless in reputation.
WILLIAM C MARTIN
Where labor is held in high esteem it will always be found that extravagances
are prevalent among the higher classes and these lead to the inevitable ruin of
the nation, but where all honest work is honorable, there is ever found
advancement and progress which lead to the upbuilding and improvement of the
country. Its men are citizens of force capable of handling the important
questions which arise and of meeting the conditions that involve all countries.
No land is so quick and willing to recognize the importance of labor as a
republic where individuals are given equal rights and privileges and where merit
may gain advancement. William C. Martin is known as one of the industrious,
energetic and practical farmers of Union township, Doniphan county, and is
justly accorded a place among its representative citizens. He was born in
Fayette county, Pennsylvania, February 16, 1843, and is a son of one of the
pioneers of Atchison county. His father, James Martin, was for many years
assistant postmaster of Atchison and was the father of the late Governor John A.
Martin. His birth occurred in Frederick, Maryland, August 9, 1803, and his death
in Atchison in 1889. On his removal from Fayette county, Pennsylvania, to
Kansas, he located on a farm in Shannon township, Atchison county, and for some
years was identified with the agricultural interests of the community. The
journey westward had been made in very primitive style; he went by boat all the
way, starting on the Monongahela river, proceeding down the Ohio, up the
Mississippi and the Missouri to his destination, for that was before the days of
railroad travel. He had been left an orphan at the age of ten years and whatever
success he achieved in life or the standing he attained was due to his own
efforts. He was married in Pennsylvania to Miss Jane M. Crawford, who was born
in 1809 and died in Doniphan county, Kansas, in April, 1899. Her children were
John A., who served as the chief executive of the state; Belle, wife of H. T.
Smith, of Atchison; William C.; James H., who died in the army; Ella, who became
the wife of F. G. Mills, of Kansas City, Kansas; and Alfred H., deceased.
William C. Martin was only fourteen years of age when he accompanied his parents
to the west. There were no good schools in this section of the state at that
time and the financial condition of the family also prevented him from pursuing
his studies to any great extent. During the civil war he joined the boys in blue
of Company K, First Kansas Volunteers, in the summer of 1860 and was mustered in
at Fort Leavenworth. With his regiment he was soon in the field in southwestern
Missouri. The command participated in the battles of Springfield and Wilson's
Creek, where the First Kansas sustained heavy losses in killed and wounded.
After this engagement the remainder of them marched over to the southwestern
section of the state, doing guard duty and protecting exposed points. At various
times they were stationed at St. Louis, Hannibal, Chillicothe, Tipton and
Lexington, Missouri, and at Leavenworth, Kansas. Then came the order to cross
the plains and the regiment started on its long pilgrimage to Mexico, hut on
reaching Fort Riley the order was countermanded and instructions given to
proceed southward to Shiloh, Tennessee, where they arrived after the battle had
been fought. Thence they proceeded to Columbus, Kentucky; to Trenton, Tennessee;
to Jackson and finally to Corinth, Mississippi, where the First Kansas
participated in the second engagement at that place. Later the members of the
regiment went to Ripley, then to Memphis, to Lake Providence and to Vicksburg
and did guard duty near the last named city, after which they proceeded up the
Yazoo river and then marched to Natchez, on the lower Mississippi river,
crossing that stream to Videll, Louisiana. where they did guard duty for a short
time. After returning to Vicksburg, as the three years term of service was
drawing to a close, the First Regiment was ordered northward to be mustered out
and on the 16th of June, 1864, Mr. Martin was free to return to civil life. He
enlisted as a private, but held the rank of sergeant at the time of his
discharge. He participated in fifteen engagements and skirmishes and was wounded
at Tuscumbia, Mississippi, but was always found at the post of duty faithfully
defending the old flag.
Upon his return to Kansas, Mr. Martin engaged in the operation of his present
farm. Forty acres of the land had been broken, but with this exception the place
was almost entirely unimproved and the task of placing it under a high state of
cultivation was an arduous one. In 1886 he went to Idaho, where he spent four
years, but with this exception he has remained continuously upon the farm and is
to-day the owner of a very valuable property, the well-tilled fields yielding
him a golden tribute, while the substantial improvements upon the place indicate
his careful supervision and progressive spirit.
Mr. Martin was married in Atchison county, December 5, 1865, to Amanda Williams,
a daughter of Fielding Williams, who was one of the early settlers of Buchanan
county, Missouri. He was a Virginian by birth and married Miss Collett, a
Kentucky lady. The members of the Williams family are all in Idaho, with the
exception of William L., who resides in Buchanan county, Missouri, and the wife
of our subject. Mr. and Mrs. Martin now have three children: Mary; J. A., and
Irene, all at home. In his political views Mr. Martin is a stalwart Republican,
unswerving in his support of the principles of the party. He has served his
township for four years as trustee and was elected justice of the peace and
constable, filling those offices with credit to himself and satisfaction of his
constituents. In the careful conduct of his farm work he has acquired a handsome
competence, and furthermore has won the respect and good will with whom he has
been brought in contact.
JOSEPH C MCCULLY
This gentleman is a member of that little group of distinctively representative
business men who were the pioneers in incorporating and building up the chief
industries of the western states. His name is familiar not alone to the
residents of the city to whose development he has contributed so conspicuously
but also to all who have been in the least intimately informed as to the history
of northeastern Kansas. He has contributed to its material progress and
prosperity to a great degree. He early had the sagacity and prescience to
discern the eminence which the future had in store for this great and growing
country, and, acting in accordance with the dictates of his faith and judgment,
he has gathered, in the fullness of time, the generous harvest which is the just
recompense of indomitable industry, spotless integrity and marvelous enterprise.
Few lives furnish so striking an example of the wise application of sound
principles and safe conservatism as does his. The story of his success is short
and simple, containing no exciting chapters, but in it lies one of the most
valuable secrets of the great prosperity which it records, and his private and
business life are pregnant with interest and incentive no matter how lacking in
dramatic action, -- the record of a noble life, consistent with itself and its
possibilities in every particular.
Joseph C. McCully was born in Burlington county, New Jersey, near the village of
Westfield, September 1, 1827. His father, Samuel McCully, was also a native of
that state and married Sarah Loveland, who was born near Little Lake Harbor, New
Jersey, a daughter of Charles Loveland. The McCully family is of Scotch origin,
the ancestors having lived in the western section of that country of hills and
heather. The father of our subject was a wheelwright by trade and also engaged
in the manufacture of carriages. He died in the village of Hartford, New Jersey,
in 1853, and his wife passed away in 1856, in her fifty-third year.
Joseph C. McCully spent his boyhood days in Hartford, where he attended school
until seventeen years of age, completing his education in a select Quaker
school. He then learned the trade of carriagemaking under his father, and when
he had mastered the business he came to the west in order to try his fortune on
the frontier hoping thereby to benefit his financial condition.
Arriving in Atchison in May, 1857, Mr. McCully secured a claim of one hundred
and sixty acres, but after two years disposed of his land and returned to the
city. Here, in 1859, he opened a carriage shop and is now extensively engaged in
the manufacture of carriages, buggies and other light vehicles. In the early
days he also manufactured heavy wagons used by freighters in crossing the
plains. He now employs a large force of workmen and occupies a factory 45x80
feet, two stories in height. There are different departments for the painting,
wood work and iron work, and a force of from seven to ten workmen are employed.
He turns out an excellent grade of carriages and the output of the factory is
very large. Since 1881 business has been carried under the firm name of McCully
Brothers and the enterprise is accounted one of the leading business interests
of the city.
In 1862 Mr. McCully was united in marriage to Miss Rose Griffey, then a resident
of Atchison, but formerly of Kentucky. Their marriage occurred during the
troublous times of the Civil war. Mr. McCully was then an advocate of Republican
principles and believed in a free-soil state. He became a member of the
Eighteenth Kansas Militia and during the war went with it to pursue the rebel
general, Price.
Mr. McCully has taken an active part in public affairs and for two years was a
member of the city council. In 1862 he was elected the treasurer of Atchison
county and served for four years, discharging his duties with marked fidelity
and ability. Socially he is connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
His efforts in business have been crowned with a desirable success and in
addition to his carriage factory he owns considerable property in Atchison. His
efforts have been directed along well-defined lines of labor and his investments
have been so judiciously made that he has derived there from a handsome
competence. In all life's relations he has been honorable and upright, and he
stands to-day one of the most highly respected citizens of Atchison, esteemed in
social, political and business circles.
GEORGE MCLENON
The beautiful Emerald Isle has furnished to the United States thousands of her
best Protestant sons and daughters and among these is numbered the gentleman
whose name heads this sketch. His birth occurred in the vicinity of the city of
Belfast, Ireland, July 3, 1850, and he was a small boy when he was brought to
this country. He is a son of Henry McLenon, of whom mention is made elsewhere in
this volume. In his boyhood he attended the public schools and at an early age
his judicious father began training him in the duties of the agriculturist. and
ere he had reached maturity he was fully competent to manage a farm. After his
marriage he settled upon a tract of eighty acres of wild land and, aided by his
wife, he has prospered in his undertakings. When he had reduced his land to the
proper condition for cultivation he proceeded to improve the place, and in the
course of time was enabled to add to his original purchase other property
adjoining it. At this writing he owns four hundred acres, on which abundant
crops are raised each season. The commodious house and barns, the fine orchard
and groves all add materially to the beauty and desirability of the homestead,
which is considered to be one of the most valuable in the neighborhood, -- in
the county, in fact. Keeping a large number of houses and other live stock, Mr.
McLenon feeds all of the grain and hay raised on his farm and derives a good
income from the cattle and hogs which he sells annually.
The marriage of Mr. McLenon and Jennie M. Glenn, of this township, took place in
1881. She was born in Pennsylvania and is the only daughter of A. W. Glenn, one
of the respected early settlers in Atchison county. He and his estimable wife,
who was Miss Maggie Murray in her girlhood, reside in Holton. Jackson county,
Kansas. They have four sons, all of whom are successful young men with bright
prospects before them.
The two sons of Mr. McLenon, Henry Alexander and William Neal, aged eighteen and
fifteen years, respectively, are of much assistance to him in the general work
of his large farm. In accordance with their parents' earnest wishes they are
paying strict attention to the task of gaining a liberal education and this,
together with their systematic home training, will render them competent to
enter upon the battle of life and to win the same measure of success which has
crowned their father's efforts. For twenty-two years the senior McLenon has
served as a member of the local school board, a fact which eloquently tells of
the deep interest he feels in the education of the young. Politically he is a
Republican and socially he belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America. With his
wife and sons he attends the Presbyterian church at Lancaster. He is an elder
and is an active and valued worker in the Sunday school. Briefly, it may be
said, and truly, that he occupies a position in the community that could not
easily be filled, for his influence and means are ever on the side of morality
and everything which is of permanent benefit to his fellow men.
Note: For additional information on this family see:
My Family
Tree With All Its Branches (offsite link)
WILLIAM H MCLENON
William H. McLenon, one of the prominent agriculturists of Lancaster township,
Atchison county, has risen to this distinction within the past few years and
deserves great credit for his enterprise and general good citizenship. His
neighbors and friends, many of whom have known him since he was a child, repose
high confidence in him, knowing that he never betrays a trust and always strives
to do the right. He may justly be termed a self-made man, for his possessions,
all of which have been acquired within the past score of years, have come to him
by his own industry and correct business methods and his example is well worthy
of emulation.
Our subject is a son of Henry McLenon, of whom a biography is given in this
volume. The birth of William H. McLenon occurred in Ohio in 1854. He was less
than three years old when he was brought to this county and in his boyhood he
attended the district schools of this locality. In his studies he made
commendable progress and for several terms he was successfully engaged in
teaching in this county. At the age of twenty-six years he was married and
brought his bride to his humble, though comfortable home. The previous year he
had purchased a tract of wild land, some one hundred and twenty acres, and
within a few years he instituted numerous important changes upon the place.
Later he bought more land and now his homestead comprises two hundred and eighty
acres, all under good cultivation. A beautiful grove and orchard, well-kept
house and barn and other improvements render this one of the most attractive
country homes in the county.
In 1880 occurred the marriage of Mr. McLenon and Mary E. Potter, a daughter of
Tinsley Potter, whose biography appears elsewhere in this work. Mrs. McLenon was
born and grew to womanhood in this county, receiving a liberal education. Two
children bless the union of our subject and wife, namely: Elsie M. and Edna R.
The parents are members and active workers in the Christian church, Mr. McLenon
being an elder and teacher in the Sunday school. Fraternally he is connected
with the Modern Woodmen of America and politically he is a stalwart Republican.
Note: For additional information on this family see: My Family Tree With All Its Branches (offsite link)
WILLIAM C MCPIKE
The senior member of McPike & Fox, wholesale druggists of Atchison, was born in
Lawrenceburg, Indiana, March 7, 1836. He is a son of John and Lydia J. (Guest)
McPike, the former born in 1795, not far from Wheeling, Virginia. His paternal
grandfather, James McPike, was a native of Scotland who emigrated to this
country and took part in the Revolutionary war. On his mother's side Mr.
McPike's grandfather was Captain Moses Guest, who was of English descent and was
born in New Brunswick, New Jersey.
The subject of this sketch passed his youth and early school days in Alton,
Illinois, where his father's family were well and favorably known. While living
in Alton he was for a short time a clerk in a drug store, then entered the
employ of W. A. Horton & Company, wholesale druggists, remaining with them until
1863, when he went to Philadelphia and became a student in the College of
Pharmacy, from which he was graduated in 1866. In the same year Mr. McPike came
to Atchison and established the firm of McPike & Allen, carrying on a retail
drug store. This partnership continued for ten years, when the business was
changed to wholesale and the new firm of McPike & Fox was formed.
This firm does a very large business not only in Atchison and the surrounding
country, but through the state and also in Nebraska, Missouri, Colorado,
Oklahoma, New Mexico, and as far west as California. They keep from twelve to
fifteen traveling men on the road and are the largest wholesale druggists next
to St. Louis. They occupy their own buildings in Atchison, having one four
stories high, 45x100 feet, and an adjoining one of the same height, 22 1/2x150
feet. Besides these they have a warehouse 45x100 feet, where oils, paints and
chemicals are stored. They have fifty employees, most of whom have been with
them over ten years, and among their patrons are many who have done business
with them ever since they began. Their continued and rapid growth, and
consequent financial success, is the result of untiring energy and perseverance,
coupled with an observance of the Golden Rule and the admirable system which
pervades the entire establishment.
In 1863 Mr. McPike was married to Miss Kate Avis, of Alton, a daughter of
Captain Samuel Avis, of that city. Five children have been born to them:
Mary; Bertha M., the wife of Judge W. T. Bland, of Atchison; Blanche and
Genevieve, both of whom were educated at Monticello Seminary, Godfrey, Illinois;
and Avis, at home.
PETER MCQUAID
Peter McQuaid, now deceased, was for a number of years a prominent pioneer
settler of Nemaha county and in his death the community lost one of its valuable
citizens. He was a native of the Emerald Isle and in his life manifested many of
the sterling characteristics of his race. His birth occurred April 8, 1830. In
the public schools of his native land he pursued his education until eighteen
years of age, acquiring an excellent knowledge that well fitted him for the
practical and responsible duties of life. He was only eleven years of age at the
time of his father's death. In 1848 he came to America, locating in New York
where he was first employed in a drug store. Later he learned the blacksmith's
trade, at which he worked for some time. He traveled to a considerable extent in
Canada, also visited the Mississippi valley and went as far west as the Black
Hills, stopping at many intermediate points on his journey. In 1858 he arrived
in Nemaha county, locating at Farmington, where he established a blacksmith
shop. It was after that that he visited the Black Hills, remaining for about a
year and then returning to Nemaha county, where he resumed work at his trade,
conducting his smithy at Seneca throughout a long period. His working ability
ultimately led to his election to public office and in 1869 he was chosen on an
independent ticket to the position of register of deeds. He was also one of the
county trustees before the county was divided into townships. In 1871 he located
upon a farm, where his widow now resides, -- then a tract of raw land with no
improvements. He carried on general farming and stock raising until his death
and was very successful in his operations, making a comfortable competence.
In 1865 Mr. McQuaid was united in marriage Miss Elizabeth Draney, who was born
in Canada May 8, 1842, and now resides on section 28, Nemaha township. Her
father, Hugh Draney, was a native of Ireland, who, when a young man, crossed the
Atlantic to Canada, Where he followed the occupation of farming. In 1856 he
removed to Iowa, where his last days were spent. His wife, who bore the maiden
name of Margaret Conley, was born and reared in Ireland, going to Canada while
in her maidenhood, where she was married. The year following her husband's death
she came to Nemaha county, where she remained until called, at the age of
eighty-three years, to the home beyond. She was the mother of seven children.
Mrs. McQuaid, the only daughter, was about fifteen years of age when she came to
Nemaha county, in 1857. The greater part of her education was obtained in
Canada, but here she pursued her studies for a time in a sod school house,
having one door and one window. She is to-day one of the oldest settlers in the
county and one of its most highly esteemed ladies. Her home farm comprises three
hundred and twenty acres and in addition she owns one hundred and twenty acres
located in other sections of the country. By her marriage Mrs. McQuaid became
the mother of ten children, all born in Nemaha county, namely: Anna, wife of Max
Novak, of Nemaha county; Lizzie, deceased; Hugh, who has also passed away; Peter
and James, who carry on the home farm; Jerome, who wedded Ida Haug, of Nemaha
county; Mary, wife of John M. Smith, of Clear Creek township, Nemaha county; an
infant, deceased; Alice, who is attending school in Atchison, Kansas; and Katie,
at home. All are members of St. Mary's Catholic church at St. Benedict. After
his removal to the farm Mr. McQuaid served as trustee of his township and in
public affairs affecting the progress and prosperity of the community he took an
active and helpful interest. He, too, was one of the prominent members of St.
Mary's Catholic church and assisted greatly in its work. His kindly manner and
genial disposition made him very popular and he was widely and favorably known
in his adopted county. He died August 27, 1894, and his memory is cherished by
his many friends as well as by his immediate family. Mrs. McQuaid still occupies
the old homestead farm and enjoys the respect of all who know her.
HERMAN MENGWASSER
Herman Mengwasser, the rector of the Catholic church of St. Benedict, Kansas,
was born in Weckhoven on the Rhine, in Germany, November 13, 1855. His father,
John Mengwasser. was a native of the same locality and was a farmer and butcher.
He died at the age of eighty-two years and his grandfather, Peter Mengwasser,
was a native of the same locality, passing away at the age of eighty-four years,
while the great-grandfather, Henry Mengwasser, died at the age of eighty-six
years. The mother of our subject bore the maiden name of Adelheid Kueven and was
a native of the village of Holzheim, Germany. She died at the age of sixty years
and her father, John Peter Kueven, passed away when eighty-five years of age.
The Rev. Herman Mengwasser is the seventh of the family of thirteen children. He
pursued his preliminary education in the schools of his native land until
fourteen years of age. after which he spent a year at work and then entered the
College of Neuss, where he graduated in 1877. Subsequently he matriculated in
the University of Louvain, in Belgium, where he spent a year, after which he
came to America, in February, 1878. He then joined the order of St. Benedict at
Atchison, Kansas, and devoted the next five years of his life to study. On the
31st of July, 1883, he was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Fink, of
Leavenworth, Kansas, and was a professor in Atchison College until 1888, when he
was appointed the pastor of St. Peter's Catholic church, in Council Bluffs,
Iowa. There he remained until 1890, when he went to Europe, spending seven
months abroad. In 1891 he became the business manager of St. Benedict College,
in Atchison, and in July, 1892, was appointed the pastor of St. Mary's church at
St. Benedict, where he has now been located for eight years. His labors have
been very effective, resulting in the steady growth and improvement of the
church, and he has greatly endeared himself to his people, to whom he is indeed
and in truth a father.
DELOS E MILLER
Delos E. Miller, the proprietor of the Miller Hotel, Atchison, Kansas, is a
native of Portage county, Ohio, born March 9, 1843, on the same farm on which
his father was born, his parents being A. D. and Malissa J. (George) Miller.
Both the paternal and maternal grandfather of our subject were pioneer settlers
of the same neighborhood in Portage county, and it was there that the mother of
Delos E. was born. Her father was William George. A. D. Miller was by trade a
shoemaker, which he followed for a number of years. Both he and his wife passed
their lives and died in Portage county.
Delos E. Miller spent his boyhood days on his father's farm, attending the
common schools in winter, and in early manhood came west to Kansas. In Shawnee
county, this state, September 4, 1862, he enlisted, and was mustered into the
United States service at Leavenworth, Kansas, September 18, 1862, as a private
of Company H, Eleventh Regiment Kansas Volunteers, under Captain Joel Huntoon
and Colonel Thomas Ewing, Jr., to serve three years or during the war.
The regiment having been armed, he moved with it October 4, 1862 from Fort
Leavenworth to Fort Scott, arrived there October 9. and waited for supplies
until the 15th; from there moved to Pea Ridge, as guard to an ammunition and
supply train; reaching there October. 19, he was assigned by General Schofield
to the Third Brigade, First Division, Army of the Frontier, moving on the night
of the 20th, under command of General Blunt, to Bentonville, Arkansas; on the
night of the 21st to old Fort Wayne, attacking at daylight on October 22, and
routing, three thousand rebels under the command of General Cooper.
Mr. Miller took part in the battle of Cane Hill, where his regiment led charge,
routing the enemy and pursuing them six miles to where the battle of Boston
Mountain was fought, followed by the battle of Prairie Grove, Arkansas, where he
was slightly wounded in the left hip by a gunshot. A few days after the battle
of Prairie Grove, the Eleventh Kansas marched south, down the Cove creek road,
in pursuit of Hinchman's rebel forces toward Fort Smith. The first twenty miles
of this road led through a gorge of the Boston mountains and crossed Cove creek
road forty times in this gorge, it being a very swift mountain stream, through
which the men had to wade, often waist deep, in the cold winter weather of the
last days of December, finally reaching the Arkansas river at Van Buren in time
to attack and capture a portion of the rear guard of the rebel army. After the
fall of Fort Smith, the regiment returned to Fort Scott, Kansas, where, as a
reward for its gallantry and bravery, on the order of General Schofield it was
changed to a regiment of cavalry, and spent the summer of 1863 in almost daily
skirmishes with bushwhackers and guerrillas who were under Quantrell, until he
was driven from the sand hills of Missouri to Texas.
In the spring of 1864 it headed off the rebel cavalry raid on the Kansas border,
which was under the command of General Joseph Shelby. He took part in all the
seventeen engagements fought during Price's invasion of Missouri. After the
Price raid he was sent with his regiment to guard the overland stage route
through western Kansas, Colorado and Wyoming, during which time he took part in
the two battles of Platte Bridge, June 3 and July 26, and of the Sand Hills July
29, 30, 1865. Company H, to which he belonged, was detached from the regiment in
the early spring of 1865, and with other troops, under the command of General
Thomas Moonlight, formed the central division of General Sully's expedition
against hostile Indians to the Big Horn and Wind River mountains, on which the
train of supplies was captured by the Indians and the soldiers fed on rose-buds
and roots to keep from starving on their return to Fort Laramie.
Mr. Miller was discharged with his regiment September 13, 1865. at Fort
Leavenworth, on a special order of the war department, on account of the
expiration of the term of enlistment. He is a member of John A. Martin Post, No.
93, G. A. R., of Atchison, Department of Kansas.
At the close of his army service, in 1865, Mr. Miller engaged in the hotel
business as the proprietor of the Old Seneca Hotel at Leavenworth, Kansas.
Afterward he conducted the Holden, at Holden, Missouri, for a time and went
thence to Lawrence, this state, where he also engaged in the hotel business. His
next move was to Atchison and he has ever since been in the same line of
business. For a short time he kept a restaurant, then he bought the Byram hotel,
which he conducted five years, and after that established himself in what has
since been known as the Miller hotel, which he has since owned.
Mr. Miller was married, December 21, 1868, to Miss Mary Johnson of Pleasant
Hill, Missouri. Mrs. Miller was born in Liverpool, England, was brought to this
country in infancy, and was reared chiefly in St. Louis, Missouri, moving from
there to Pleasant Hill, Missouri, with her parents, and at that place was
married. They have two children, Katherine and Louise, the former the wife of H.
H. Summers, of Lincoln, Nebraska; the latter the wife of Henry Bush, the manager
of the Byram hotel, at Atchison.
Mr. Miller is a Republican, and has several times served as a member of the city
council of Atchison. He is identified with numerous fraternal organizations. He
is a member of Atchison Lodge, No. 158, F. & A. M.; Washington Chapter, No. 1,
R. A. M.; Washington Commandery, No. 2, Knight Templars; Mystic Shrine;
Friendship Lodge, No. 5, I. O. O. F.; Hesperian Encampment; Knights of the
Maccabees; Golden Cross, K. of P.; and Improved Order of Red Men.
WILLIAM E MILLER, M D
Since 1894 Dr. Miller has been engaged in the practice of medicine in Muscotah,
and the liberal patronage which he receives is an evidence of his skill and
ability. His devotion to his profession is very marked, and he gains from the
faithful performance of each day's duties inspiration and courage for the labors
of the succeeding one.
The Doctor is a native of Illinois, his birth having occurred in Hanover, Jo
Daviess county, on January 14, 1860. His father was one of the first school
teachers in that county, and the family are therefore identified with the
pioneer interests of the Prairie state. Joseph G. Miller, the Doctor's father,
was married in early manhood to Miss Margaret McClellan, and they became the
parents of four children. The mother, Who was an earnest Christian woman and had
a large circle of friends, was called to her final rest in 1884, and the father
still resides in Hanover, Illinois.
The Doctor attended the public schools of Illinois until eighteen years of age,
when he came to Kansas. He attended school at the Kansas State Agricultural
College, taught school and then went to Colorado. After entering upon his
business career he was employed in various lines, being at one time connected
with the steel works in Pueblo, Colorado. Subsequently he went to Beattie,
Kansas, where he was superintendent of the large stone quarries. He became a
student of medicine under the direction of Dr. Pennington. of Beattie, a
physician of broad experience and accurate knowledge. Subsequently he entered
the Ensworth College, at St. Joseph, Missouri, and on the completion of the
regular course was graduated in that institution in the class of 1891. For the
past nine years he has devoted his attention exclusively to his professional
duties. He first opened an office in Huron, Kansas, where he remained until his
removal to Muscotah, in 1894. He was married to Miss Anna G. Thomas, a native of
California and a daughter of George G. Thomas, of Brush. Creek, Kansas. During
her early girlhood she was brought to this state, where she was reared and
educated. The Doctor and his wife now have an interesting little daughter,
Josephine A.
Socially Dr. Miller is connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and
is a Master Mason, belonging to Huron Lodge. In his political views he is a
Republican, while both he and his wife are members of the congregational church
and enjoy the warm regard of a large circle of friends. The Doctor has well
earned the honorable title of self-made man, for he owes his present position in
life entirely to his own efforts. He earned the money which enabled him to
pursue his professional education, and then entered upon his life work, in which
advancement must result from his marked ability. He now occupies a leading
position among the successful practitioners of Atchison county, and is steadily
advancing toward perfection.
PHILIP S MITCHELL, M D
Each calling or business, if honorable, has its place in the scheme of human
existence, constituting a part of the plan whereby life's methods are pursued
and man reaches his ultimate destiny. "All are needed by each one," wrote
Emerson. The importance of a business, however, is largely determinedly its
usefulness. So dependent is man upon his fellow man that the worth of the
individual is largely reckoned by what he has done for humanity. There is no
class to whom greater gratitude is due than to those self-sacrificing,
noble-minded men whose life work has been the alleviation of the burden of
suffering that rests on the world, thus lengthening the span of human existence.
One of the leading representatives of the medical fraternity in Atchison is Dr.
Philip S. Mitchell, who has been an active practitioner in this city for
seventeen years. He was born in Salem, Livingston county, Kentucky, February 7,
1854, and on the paternal side is of Scotch-Irish descent. His grandfather was
William Mitchell and his father was James Mitchell. The latter was a native of
Kentucky and a farmer by occupation. He married Miss Nancy Ann Hutson, a
daughter of John Hutson, who was born in Germany.
The Doctor was reared upon a farm in the county of his nativity and was sent to
a select school. After acquiring a good English education he engaged in
teaching, which profession he followed between the ages of seventeen and
twenty-seven years. During that time he took up the study of medicine,
completing a course of reading in Salem, Kentucky, after which he entered the
Kentucky School of Medicine, where he pursued his first course of lectures. In
his native state he engaged in practice until 1882, when he came to Kansas,
locating in Cummings. There he remained until 1887, when he came to Atchison,
where he has since engaged in general practice. He is now well established in
his profession, doing a large business. He is a close student of the science of
medicine and keeps thoroughly in touch with the progress that is continually
advancing toward perfection. He is a man of broad human sympathies without which
success can never be gained in his chosen calling. His knowledge, too, is broad
and comprehensive, and he is therefore deserving of the success which has
attended his efforts.
In 1879 was celebrated the marriage of Dr. Mitchell and Miss Mary M. Ramage, a
daughter of Thomas Ramage. They had been schoolmates together and the friendship
thus formed ripened into love as the years passed. Their union has been blessed
with six children: Ora B., Judge T., Wade C., Ollie Pearl, Gracie F. and Bertha
May.
The Doctor is a member of the Eastern Kansas Medical Society, the Kansas State
Medical Society, the American Medical Association and the Atchison Medical
Society. In 1885 he was appointed a member of the Atchison board of pension
examiners, and in 1896 he was house surgeon in the Kentucky School of Medicine
Hospital. In 1897 he went abroad and visited all of the principal hospitals of
England, gaining an extended knowledge of the methods there pursued in the
treatment of the sick. He has recently established a private infirmary in
Atchison of the style of those in the east, and this is now largely occupied by
patients who hearing of his skill and ability have come to him for treatment. He
was the first physician in this section of the state to use the X-ray in
surgery, and his efforts in that direction have been attended with excellent
success. He ranks among the most prominent representatives of his calling in
this section of Kansas, and the liberal patronage accorded him is well merited.
The success which has come to him has enabled him to make investments in
property and he is to-day the owner of a fine fruit farm of one hundred acres
not far from the city. This is largely planted to apples, and is one of the
valued properties of the kind in the community. For four years the Doctor was a
member of the city council of Atchison and served as its president. Socially he
is connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and enjoys the high
regard of all those with whom business and social connections have brought him
in contact. He is also connected with the Modern Woodmen of America, Maccabees,
National Reserve, Mutual Protective League, and a member of other fraternal
insurance societies. He has a just appreciation of the importance of his
profession, and his devotion to the demands which is made upon him has resulted
in gaining him marked prestige in connection with the medical fraternity of
northeastern Kansas.
P R MOORE
Absolute capability often exists in specific instances, but is never brought
into the clear light of the utilitarian and practical life. Hope is of the
valley, while effort stands upon the mountain top; so that personal advancement
comes not to the one who hopes alone, but to the one whose hope and faith are
those of action. Thus is determined the full measure of success to one who has
struggled under disadvantageous circumstances, and the prostrate mediocrity to
another whose ability has been as great and opportunities wider. Then he may
well hold in high regard the results of individual effort and personal
accomplishment, for cause and effect here maintain their functions in full
force. Doctor Moore is one who, through his close study and application to
business, has won marked prestige in his chosen calling. His residence in
Effingham dates from 1888, and for more than twenty-six years he has made his
home in Atchison county.
The Doctor is a native of Indiana, his birth having occurred in Hendricks
county, July 23, 1845. His father, Smith G. Moore, was a representative of an
old eastern family that furnished to the Union many of the loyal soldiers in the
colonial army during the Revolutionary war. Smith Moore was born in Salem, North
Carolina, and for many years was a successful practicing physician. He married
Miss Elsbeth Garrett, and in 1857 came with his family to Kansas, locating in
Pardee, Atchison county, where they lived for five years. In 1862 they returned
to Adams county, Illinois, where the father died ten years later, at the age of
sixty-six years. He was an elder in the Christian church, his membership with
that denomination covering a period of more than forty years. His life was ever
upright and honorable, commanding the respect of all with whom he came in
contact, and in his profession he won distinction as a successful practitioner.
His political support was given the Republican party, and he was at all times
true to the cause in which he believed. His wife still survives him, and is now
living in Pardee, Kansas, at the age of seventy-six years.
Dr. P. R. Moore, whose name introduces this review, acquired his preliminary
education in the public schools, and later was a student in the Christian
College at Abingdon, Illinois. Determining to make the practice of medicine his
life work he entered the Ohio Medical College, in which he was graduated with
the class of 1876. For some years he practiced in Nortonville, Kansas, and in
1888 came to Effingham, where he has since met with creditable success.
In 1867, in Adams county, Illinois, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Moore and
Miss Elizabeth Acklam, a native of England, and a daughter of Wilbur Acklam, now
deceased. Unto the Doctor and his wife have been born four children: Edgar, who
is living in Nortonville, Kansas; Smith, a resident of Effingham; Alice A., and
Orville, at home. The Doctor gives his political support to the Republican
party, and is identified with the Masonic fraternity. He and his family are
members of the Christian church, in which he has been trustee for some years. He
has practiced medicine for many years with the earnestness and dignity that
belong to the profession, and keeps well informed on the latest discoveries that
indicate the continued progress in the science of medicine. In personal
appearance he is prepossessing, of pleasing manner and address, genial and
courteous, and at all times honored and esteemed both professionally and
socially.
JOHN M MORLEY
In modern ages, and to a large extent in the past, banks have constituted a
vital part of organized society, and governments, both monarchical and
republican, have depended upon them for material aid in times of depression and
trouble. Their influence has extended over the entire world, and their
prosperity has been the barometer which has unfalteringly indicated the
financial status of all nations. Of this important branch of business Mr. Morley
is a worthy representative. He is now carrying on business in that line in
Severance, and has made his institution one of the most reliable financial
concerns in this section of the state.
Mr. Morley was born in Butler county, Ohio, November 23, 1852, and is a son of
Roger and Margaret (Kilkenny) Morley, both of whom were natives of Ireland. In
1857 the family removed to Doniphan county, Kansas, settling upon a farm in Wolf
River township, where they experienced all the hardships and trials incident to
life on the frontier. The father is still living upon that farm, which he has
transformed into a valuable and productive tract of land. His wife died June 23,
1896, but he is still a well preserved old gentleman.
John M. Morley spent his youth upon the farm in Doniphan county, for he was only
five years of age at the time of his parents removal to this state. He attended
the district schools, and having acquired a good preliminary education there he
supplemented it by a course in St. Benedict College, in Atchison, Kansas, where
he pursued his studies two years. On leaving that institution he accepted a
position as a clerk in a general store in Severance, Kansas, owned by John T.
Kirwan. This was in 1872. The period of his clerkship covered seven years. He
then became the assistant cashier in the bank, and in 1890 started in business
on his own account, forming a partnership with J. A. Dillon, under the firm name
of Dillon & Morley, proprietors of a general store at Severance. This connection
was continued until March, 1891, when Mr. Morley sold his interest to his
partner, and in August, 1892, he founded the Bank of Severance. Since that time
he has engaged in a general banking business, and is now at the head of one of
the solid financial institutions of Doniphan county. The capital stock is
fifteen thousand dollars and there is a surplus of twelve hundred. He conducts
business along progressive but safe lines, and his honorable methods insure the
confidence and support of the public, while his keen discrimination and
enterprise are the qualities that have brought to him a well merited success.
RICHARD B MORRIS
With the upbuilding and development of northeastern Kansas Mr. Morris was long
prominently identified and is now living retired, enjoying a rest which he has
truly earned and richly deserves. He was born in Springfield, Massachusetts, in
1833, and is a representative of two of the oldest families of America. His
parents were Richard D. and Sybil (Bontecou) Morris. The father traced his
ancestry back to Thomas Morris, of Waltham Abbey, county of Essex, England. He
was the father of Edward Morris, the founder of the family in America. It was in
1635 that the last-named crossed the Atlantic and took up his abode in Roxbury,
Massachusetts. Edward Morris, the grandfather of our subject, was one of the
loyal soldiers of the Revolutionary war and valiantly aided in the struggle for
independence. On the maternal side Mr. Morris is descended from the Huguenot
refugees who sought freedom of conscience in America. Pierre Bontecou, the
progenitor of the family in this country, emigrated from La Rochelle, France, in
1684, and reached New York city in 1689. The grandfather of our subject, named
Daniel, was a native of Connecticut.
Richard Bontecou Morris, whose name introduces this record, acquired his
education in the schools of Springfield, Massachusetts, and in an academy at
that place, obtaining a good knowledge of civil engineering. In this capacity he
became prominently connected with the building of railroads in various states of
the Union. In 1859 he was appointed the first freight agent of the Hannibal &
St. Joseph Road at St. Joseph. In 1866 he took up his residence in Atchison and
did construction work on the central section of the Union Pacific. In 1869 he
was made the general agent of the Missouri Pacific at Atchison, and subsequently
he held a similar position in the service of the Kansas City & St. Joseph
Railroad. During the only Democratic administration that Kansas has ever had,
Mr. Morris filled the position of superintendent of insurance, being appointed
by Governor Glick. In 1893 he was appointed internal revenue collector and held
that position for a term of four years, during President Cleveland's
administration. He filled both offices most acceptably, manifesting marked
capability in the discharge of his duties as well as fidelity to the trust
reposed in him.
In his political views Mr. Morris is a stalwart Democrat, earnest and unswerving
in his support of the principles of the party, and for many years was a member
of the Democratic state central committee. In 1872, 1876 and 1880 he served as a
delegate to the Democratic national convention.
A valued representative of the Masonic fraternity, he holds membership in lodge,
chapter and commandery, and is also a member of the Ancient Arabic Order of the
Nobles of the Mystic Shrine.
JAMES GRANVILLE MORROW
The specific history of the west was made by the pioneers; it was emblazoned on
the forest trees by the strength of sturdy arms and the gleaming ax and written
on the surface of the earth by the track of the primitive plow. These were
strong men and true, who came to found the empire of the west -- hardy settlers
who founded their rude domiciles and made the trackless prairie yield its
tribute. People of the present end-of-the-century period can scarcely realize
the struggles and dangers which attended the early settlers, the heroism and
self-sacrifice of lives passed upon the borders of civilization, the hardships
endured, the difficulties overcome. These tales of the early days read almost
like a romance to those who have known only the modern prosperity and
convenience. James Granville Morrow was one who, more than forty-five years ago,
came to Kansas, and is today the oldest resident of Atchison. He lived through
the troublous times during the great contest between the pro-slavery and
free-soil people. Railroads had not been built the state had not even been
opened up for settlement at the time of his arrival; all was wild, giving little
promise of the wonderful changes soon to occur, -- changes which he has helped
to bring about by taking a prominent and active part in the work of progress
which has placed the Sunflower state upon a par with many of the older states
east of the Mississippi.
Mr. Morrow was born on a farm in Wayne county, Kentucky, June 27, 1827, his
parents being Jeremiah and Lydia (Holder) Morrow. The family is of Scotch
origin, having emigrated from Scotland to America at an early period in the
history of the republic. John Morrow, the grandfather of our subject, was a
native of Virginia. Jeremiah Morrow was also born in that state, in 1802, at an
early day removing to Kentucky, where he engaged in farming. He married Miss
Holder and their farm in Wayne county was the scene of all the boyhood
experiences which came to the subject of this review. At the age of sixteen
Granville Morrow was sent to a select school, but continued to make his home
with his parents until he had attained his majority, when he started out to make
his own way in the world. He dealt quite extensively in horses, which he drove
from Kentucky to Atlanta, Georgia. there being no railroad at that time. He was
also associated with his brothers in raising, purchasing and selling hogs, which
they drove four hundred miles into Georgia, where they were sold to planters.
Sometimes a single planter would buy five hundred head and the price ranged from
eight to nine dollars per hundred pounds, live weight. Sometimes the Morrow
brothers drove thirteen thousand head, traveling only seven miles a day, and to
that business our subject gave his time and attention until 1850.
In 1854 Mr. Morrow arrived in Kansas and purchased six hundred and forty acres
of land on the Kansas side of the river. He arrived in the state two months
before it was opened for settlement and began working for George M. Million,
operating the ferry. There was only one man living on the town site of Atchison
at the time. In the spring of 1855 Mr. Morrow began operating a ferry by horse
power and in the fall of the same year he operated a side-wheel steam ferry,
which had been brought here from Brownsville, Pennsylvania. In 1857 he became
captain of the steam ferry Ida, later running the steam ferry Pomeroy, after
which he went to Brownsville, Pennsylvania, where he built the transfer boat
William Osborne, remaining there eight months while the work was in progress.
With this exception he has never been away from Atchison for more than a month
at a time in forty-five years. When he brought the William Osborne to Atchison
it was loaded with three hundred tons of rails for the Central Branch of the
Union Pacific Railroad. This boat also conveyed across the river the first
locomotives used on that road after its construction. Altogether Captain Morrow
was connected with navigation on the Missouri for fifteen years, thus winning
the title by which he is widely known.
His life has been one of the greatest activity and energy. In 1869 he turned his
attention to farming, operating land in the Missouri bottom just opposite the
city of Atchison. He now owns over twelve hundred acres of rich land adjoining
East Atchison on the south and has never yet failed to raise a crop. He also
owns two valuable farms on the Atchison side of the river. He has been
particularly successful in raising wheat, some years producing thousands of
bushels; in this way he has gained the greater part of his capital. Although he
has passed the Psalmist's span of three score years and ten, he is still
actively connected with business interests. Indolence and idleness are utterly
foreign to his nature, and his activity should put to shame many a younger man
who has grown tired of the burdens and responsibilities of business life and
would relegate to others the duties that he should perform. In 1888 Mr. Morrow
became financially interested in the transfer business, and eventually, by
purchasing the interests of his partners, became sole proprietor. He owns
several good teams, employs a number of reliable men, and in this way is doing a
good business.
In 1874 Mr. Morrow was united in marriage to Sarah J. George, daughter of Dr. J.
J. George, of Cass county, Missouri, and they now have three children:, Della
B., James George and Nadine. The family have a beautiful residence in Atchison
and the members of the household have many friends. Mr. Morrow, however, is
better known to the early settlers than to the later citizens of Atchison, so
closely is his time given to his business, in which he has met with such
creditable success. He has been an important factor in the commercial interests
which have contributed to the upbuilding and improvement of this section of the
state, and as one of the honored pioneers of Kansas his name is enduringly
inscribed on its history.
PETER N MULLER
Peter N. Muller, as his name implies, is of German extraction and possesses the
fine, stable qualities of his sterling Teutonic ancestors. In the prime of
manhood he brings to bear upon all of his undertakings a strong purpose to
succeed and that genuine ability that rarely fails of attaining its goal. Loyal
to the land of his birth and active in the support of its government and
institutions, he is a model of American patriotism and is well deserving of a
place in the annals of Atchison, his native county.
His father, Peter Muller, was born in Germany and came to the United States when
a young man, believing that he might have better opportunities for making a
livelihood and position here than in the more crowded centers of European
civilization. Fortune brought him to Kansas and in Atchison county he was
employed by the government as a teamster on the plains. He married Lizzie
Newton, a native of Iowa, and four children were born to them: One who died in
infancy; Jane, now living in Winchester, Kansas; Mrs. Dora Brosig, of Holton,
Kansas; and Peter N., of this sketch.
He was born January 4, 1871, and was a small child when death deprived him of
his mother's loving care. Consequently he was reared in the household of John
Wagner, the administrator of the Muller estate. When he had reached a suitable
age he commenced attending the district schools and managed to gain a liberal
business education. For some time after leaving school he was employed as a farm
hand. By diligence and economy he laid aside a portion of his earnings and at
length invested the amount in a farm. He now owns a quarter-section of land in
Benton township and is constantly making improvements upon the place, which has
many natural advantages.
Ever since he attained his majority Mr. Muller has given his ballot to the
nominees of the Republican party, as he firmly believes in its policy. In all of
his labors and trials and joys he finds an earnest helpmate and friend in the
person of his wife, whose destinies were united with his own on the 8th of
March, 1899. Her maiden name was Tillie M. Stewart and her former home was
Effingham, where she was reared, receiving good educational advantages.
JOHN MURRAY
For nearly thirty years John Murray has been a resident of Lancaster township,
Atchison county, and during this period no one here has been more thoroughly
interested in the development of northeastern Kansas. First of all he is a
patriot and comes from a family of patriots. Among his near relatives the
records show at least five of his name who have offered their lives to this,
their beloved, country. His father's brother was a hero of the war of 1812 and
our subject and three of his brothers fought for the preservation of the Union
in the war of the Rebellion, one of the brothers giving his life to the cause.
The same public spirit and loyalty to state and native land which characterized
them has ever been manifested, both in peace and in war, by the subject of this
article.
Robert Murray, the father of our subject, was born in Washington county,
Pennsylvania, his parents being Neal and Mary Ann (Brown) Murray. In his youth
Robert Murray learned the trade of stone mason, which calling he pursued during
his active life. He chose for a wife Miss Jane Anderson, a native of the same
state and a daughter of Francis Anderson. Politically Mr. Murray was affiliated
with the Whig party, and both he and his wife were members of the United
Presbyterian church. He was summoned to his reward at his old home in the
Keystone state when he was seventy-six years of age, and his wife was seventy
years old at the time of her death. They were the parents of six sons and six
daughters. Four of the sons, as stated above, were soldiers in the Union army.
Robert, who enlisted as a member of the Sixty-third Pennsylvania Infantry, was
killed while on duty at a fort in Petersburg, Virginia. Neal, who was a
lieutenant in the Fourteenth Iowa Infantry, later, on account of sickness,
resigned, returned home, raised another company and as first lieutenant went out
again in the Twenty-second Iowa Infantry. He is now living in Jasper, Iowa.
Joseph E.. who served with the Fourteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, resides in
Varona, Pennsylvania. Francis has been in the employ of the United States
government on a boat running on the Ohio river. Mrs. Margaret Glenn, the only
surviving daughter of Robert Murray, lives at Holton, Kansas.
The birth of John Murray took place in Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, October
1, 1831. In his native state he learned the millwright's trade and in 1854 came
to the west, settling in Jasper county, Iowa. In 1860 he crossed the plains to
Pike's Peak. Colorado, and was there engaged in the lumber business for about
two years. Returning to Iowa he enlisted in the Ninth Iowa Cavalry, under the
command of Captain O. C. Howe. After serving with fidelity and marked bravery at
his post of duty for three years he was honorably discharged at Little Rock,
Arkansas, in February, 1866. Subsequently he returned to the Keystone state,
where he continued to make his home for nine years. In 1875 he came to Kansas
and located upon his present homestead in Lancaster township. He has made good
improvements upon the farm and has placed it under a high state of cultivation.
The marriage of Mr. Murray and Letitia Callender was solemnized in Jasper
county, Iowa, in 1861. She was a native of Pennsylvania and a daughter of James
and Sarah Callender. Of the eight children born to our subject and wife four are
living. James Grant is a member of the firm of Murray Brothers, dealers in wood
and coal. He was first married to Lou David, who died, leaving two children,
John and Bertha, and later he wedded Fannie Stoner; Frank G., who was also
connected with the firm of Murray Brothers, married Ida Haney, and their
children are named, respectively, John, Minnie and Paul. and he died March 24,
1900; Ora Jane, who became the wife of John Cormode; Ellen M., wife of H. M.
Hawk, of Center township. was engaged in teaching before her marriage; and
Maggie May, the youngest of the family, lives at home. Four of our subject's
children have passed to the better land, namely: Frank G., R. Simpson, Thomas
Edgar and Joseph B.
In his political faith Mr. Murray is a stanch Republican. He has served his
community as township trustee for some time and was the township assessor for a
period of three years. One of the charter members of Jack Judy Post, No. 275, G.
A. R., he has acted in the capacity of adjutant and post commander. With his
wife and two of his children he belongs to the United Presbyterian church.
Note: For additional information on this family see: My Family Tree With All Its Branches (offsite link)
AUGUSTUS W MYERS
It has assuredly been not uninteresting to observe in the series of biographical
sketches appearing in this volume the varying nationality, origin and early
environment of men who have made their way to positions of prominence and
success. Mr. Myers is one of the worthy citizens that Germany has furnished to
Kansas, and belongs to that class of self-made men who have reached the plane of
affluence through well directed effort, unflagging industry and unabating
perseverance.
He was born in Lintze, Germany, October 28, 1824, his parents being Frederick
and Louisa Myers, both of whom were also natives of Germany. In 1837 they came
to the United States, crossing the Atantic to New York city and thus making
their way direct to Columbus, Ohio, Where they spent the succeeding winter. In
the spring of 1838 they removed to Jackson county, Indiana, where the father
engaged in farming and stock raising. In 1850 they took up their residence in
St. Joseph, Missouri.
Augustus W. Myers accompanied his parents on their various removals up to that
time. In the year 1850 he married Miss Huldah Snyder, of Buchanan county,
Missouri, a daughter of Edward Snyder, and they began their domestic life upon a
farm in that state, which continued to be their home until 1877. In that year
Mr. Myers went with his family to Stockton, California. but after a short time
he returned eastward locating in Atchison county, where he purchased two hundred
acres of rich land in Shannon township. He is interested with his brother, Fred,
in the cattle business in California and also has property interests in Los
Angeles. After residing for some time in Shannon township he came to Atchison,
where he now makes his home, his time and energies being devoted to the
management and carrying on of his extensive property interests. He still owns
the old homestead and has made judicious investments in other realty, from which
he derives a handsome income.
Mr. and Mrs. Myers have ten children, seven sons and three daughters, namely:
Herman K.; Edward S.; Laura E., wife of William Clem, a farmer; John; William
H.; Winslow; Charles W.; Dora S., wife of William Segner; Frederick, at home;
and Ray H., who is still at his parental home. Mr. Myers started out in life for
himself empty-handed, nor had he the influence of wealthy friends to aid him. He
placed his dependence on the more substantial qualities of industry and
enterprise, and his sound judgment in business matters has always been a potent
element in his prosperity. To-day he is numbered among the capitalists of
Atchison, his earliest labors having been crowned with a high degree of success.
Such a life indicates the glory of the American republic, for it is only in this
land that caste and class do not hamper genius, labor and native talent.
HENRY MYERS
The fitting reward of a well-spent life is an honored retirement from labor,
such as Mr. Myers is now enjoying. One of the fine farms of Shannon township,
Atchison county, is an indication of his labors in former years, for the
valuable property on which he now resides was secured entirely through his
earnest, consecutive and honorable efforts.
Mr. Myers is a native of the Fatherland, his birth having occurred in Hanover,
Germany, on June 25, 1829. His parents were also natives of the same country.
The mother was a Miss Myers before her marriage, a daughter of Henry Myers. In
1835 the family emigrated to the United States, landing at New York city after a
voyage of eight weeks. They went direct to Columbus, Ohio, and after spending
the succeeding winter there, removed to Jackson county, Indiana, where they
remained until 1849. The mother's death occurred in that county in 1840.
In 1841 Henry Myers, of this review, became a student in one of the primitive
schools of Indiana, -- a log building, supplied with crude furniture. There he
became familiar with the elementary branches of the English language, pursuing
his studies through the winter months, while in the summer season he followed
the plow, planted the crops and then assisted in gathering the harvests in the
autumn. In 1850 he started westward, taking up his abode in St. Joseph,
Missouri, where he was engaged in teaming for a time. He did much hauling for
millers in that locality, and also transported supplies for farmers to the
Arkansas river.
In 1852 Mr. Myers.was united in marriage to Miss Lititia Hardsick, of Missouri,
after which he engaged in the manufacture of cottonwood shingles. In 1867 he
removed to Kansas and purchased a farm of A. J. Gore, in Shannon township, then
consisting of one hundred and sixty acres, and to it he added from time to time
until within its boundaries were comprised seven hundred and twenty acres. He
erected upon the farm a good dwelling, substantial barns, sheds and
out-buildings, and became one of the prosperous agriculturists of the community.
He was very successful as a wheat raiser and also in raising cattle and hogs,
frequently feeding and fattening cattle for the market. He was very industrious
and energetic, and these qualities brought him a handsome competence. He
continued the operation of his farm until 1897, since which time it has been
controlled by his sons.
On November 5, 1896, Mr. Myers was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife,
who was a most estimable lady, greatly devoted to the interests of her family.
Mr. Myers has served as a member of the school board for a number of years. He
is now in possession of a competence, which, in the later years of his life,
supplies him with comforts and luxuries. Mr. Myers has the satisfaction of
knowing that his career has been an honorable and upright one, and that it has
not been without the financial reward which should ever attend well-directed
labor.
WILLIAM F MYERS
William F. Myers, whose name appears on the roll of Doniphan county farmers, was
born in Buchanan county, Missouri, April 17, 1853. His father, Henry Myers, was
born in Hanover, Germany, and in 1834, when a little lad of five summers, was
brought to America by his father, Frederick Myers, who made his first location
in Indiana. Not long afterward, however, he took his family to Buchanan county,
Missouri, where he spent his remaining days, his death occurring at his home
near St. Joseph. Henry Myers was reared and educated in Buchanan county and
after arriving at years of maturity he married Litha Hartsock. At an early
period in the development of Atchison county they came to this locality, Mr.
Myers making a settlement in Shannon township. His wife died in September, 1895.
Their children are: William T.; Mary, deceased, the wife of Herman Clye; John,
of Atchison county; and Henry B., now deceased.
Upon the parental homestead in Atchison county William F. Myers spent his youth.
He has been a resident of Kansas since 1867 and is indebted to the common
"district" school for the educational privileges which he enjoyed. Through the
summer months he aided in the labors of the home farm and remained with his
father until twenty-eight years of age. About that time he purchased his present
farm in Doniphan county and has since been a representative of the agricultural
interests here. He now operates a half-section of land and the fields are under
a high state of cultivation, yielding to him good harvest as a reward for his
labor. He is very practical in his methods of farming and is never slow to adopt
improved methods.
At the age of twenty-eight Mr. Myers was united in marriage to Miss Mary Grace,
who died leaving a son, Frederick. His present wife bore the maiden name of Dora
Cotter and was a daughter of Mrs. Elizabeth Cotter, of Bendena. Six children
grace the union of Mr. Myers and his wife, namely Henry, Nellie, William, John,
Irene and ???Ione, the last two being twins. The family has a wide acquaintance
in this locality and their circle of friends is extensive. In his political
affiliations Mr. Myers is a Democrat, but has neither time nor inclination for
public office, preferring to devote his energies to his farming interests, which
are characterized by unremitting industry.
NICHOLAS L NELSON
Nicholas L. Nelson, one of the most extensive farmers and stock raisers of Wolf
River township, attained his majority in Doniphan county and is widely known as
a leading representative of its agricultural interests. He was born in Buchanan
county, Missouri, November 13, 1851, and is a son of Lewis Nelson, whose birth
occurred at Lillesand, Norway, in 1822. When about twenty years of age the
father left "the land of the midnight sun" to seek a home across the broad
Atlantic, and almost immediately after landing in America he enlisted for
service in the Mexican war, becoming a member of an Oregon battalion. He was
stationed on the frontier to aid in defense against the Indians and when
hostilities had ceased he went to Missouri, locating in Buchanan county, near
St. Joseph, where he was engaged in farming until the year 1857. He then cast in
his lot with the pioneer settlers of Doniphan county and aided in reclaiming the
wild land. He and his family experienced all the hardships and difficulties
incident to a life on the frontier, but he prosecuted his labors with great
energy and soon became the owner of a valuable farm. He died in 1866 and his
remains were laid to rest in the Steanson cemetery. He was married, in St.
Joseph, Missouri, to Gurine Nelson, who still survives him and makes her home in
Troy, Kansas. In order of birth their children are as follows: Amelia, the wife
of Guttorm Steanson, a worthy pioneer citizen of Mercy, Kansas; Nicholas L.;
Julia, the wife of E. N. Erickson; Oscar; Maggie, the wife of B. O. Running, the
proprietor of the A. B. C. Laundry in Atchison; and Mary, the wife of Milton
Zimmerman, of Doniphan county.
Nicholas L. Nelson was reared on his father's farm -- the northwest quarter of
section 28, Wolf River township -- and acquired his education in the district
schools of the neighborhood. He left the paternal roof at the age of twenty-two
years and began farming a tract of land near Leona, where he resided for six
years. About 1879 he purchased his present home and has transformed the land
into rich and highly cultivated fields, which yield to him a golden tribute in
return for the care and labor he bestows upon them. He successfully carries on
general farming and is also prospering in his extensive stock-dealing interests,
making a specialty of cattle and hogs.
Mr. Nelson was married, in Doniphan county, in November, 1872, Miss Lena Running
becoming his wife. Her father was one of the early settlers of Running Valley,
Wisconsin, and a representative of an old Norwegian family. Unto Mr. and Mrs.
Nelson have been born the following children: Grace, who died in February, 1898,
at the age of twenty-one years; Jessie, who died in September, 1899, at the age
of twenty years; Ella, Ray, Norma, Cyril and Bernice.
Mr. Nelson has served as township committeeman for the Republican party a number
of years and is a most active advocate of all measures that promote the growth
and insure the success of that political organization. He has served as township
treasurer, discharging the duties with marked prominence and fidelity.
D C NEWCOMB
Among the prominent merchants of Atchison none hold a higher place in the esteem
of its citizens than Mr. Newcomb. He is the proprietor of one of the largest and
best stocked stores in the state, and carries on an importing, jobbing and
retail business in dry goods, carpets. furnishings, boots and shoes.
He occupies a fine brick building which he erected in 1888. It is 45 x 135 feet,
three stories and basement, and is fitted with passenger elevators, electric
light, steam heat and every other modern convenience. The trade of this house is
very extensive, and its patrons always feel assured that they are being fairly
dealt with and getting the best goods for the least money.
Mr. Newcomb was born on a farm in Fayston, Washington county, Vermont, July 13,
1836. Hosea Newcomb, his father, was born in Swansea, New Hampshire, in 1803,
and was a farmer by occupation, as was his father, William Newcomb. The mother,
whose maiden name was Harriet Bixby, was of German descent, born in Roxbury,
Massachusetts, in 1805. The Newcombs are descendants of Francis Newcomb and his
two brothers, who emigrated from England to America in 1635, at the age of
thirty, with wife Rachel, in ship Planter. He was one of three brothers who came
over together and of whom Francis Newcomb settled in Massachusetts.
Hosea Newcomb located in Sumner, Kansas, in 1859, and was postmaster there
twelve or fourteen years. The town is out of existence now. He returned to
Vermont in 1873 and died there in 1889, in his eighty-seventh year. His widow
still lives in that state and is now in her ninety-fifth year, and is in full
possession of all her faculties. She is the mother of five children, three of
whom are living: Dan, who is a physician and resides in Ocean Springs,
Mississippi, on the Gulf of Mexico. He came to Atchison some time before his
brother, D. C., and was the first free-state registrar of deeds of Atchison
county. Lydia is the wife of Nathaniel Shephard and lives in Minneapolis,
Minnesota. D. C., the subject of this sketch. The first eighteen years of his
life D. C. Newcomb spent in his native place, where he attended the public
schools. Later he was a student in Newbury Seminary, and when eighteen years of
age began clerking in Johnson, Vermont, afterward in Montpelier. In the winter
of 1857 he came West spending some months in Wisconsin, and on March 8, 1858,
came to Sumner, Kansas, and from there to Atchison. The latter place was in its
infancy at that time and gave no promise of becoming the prosperous and
important city that it now is. Sumner seemed to be the better place of the two,
but Mr. Newcomb decided that the location of Atchison as a business point was
far superior and concluded to try his fortune here. The following year he became
deputy for his brother Dan in the register-of-deeds office, where he remained
for some three years. He then took a clerkship in one of the stores in Atchison.
One of his fellow clerks was Samuel Gard, and in 1864 these two formed a
partnership under the firm name of Gard & Newcomb, which continued until 1869,
when Mr. Gard died. Since that time Mr. Newcomb has carried on merchandising
alone, enlarging his quarters as his business has increased, and now being
finely established as has been mentioned.
In 1866 Mr. Newcomb was married to Anna E. Bowman, a daughter of Captain George
W. Bowman, at one time a steamboat captain and afterward a merchant of Atchison.
He was formerly from Brownsville, Pennsylvania. Mr. and Mrs. Newcomb have two
children: Hattie May, who married Lieutenant Harry A. Smith, U. S. A., a
graduate of West Point, and a son of Henry T. Smith, one of the early merchants
of Atchison. At the present time Lieutenant Smith is at Santiago, Cuba; he held
the rank of major of the Twenty-first Kansas Volunteers in the Spanish war;
George Edgar, the only son of Mr. Newcomb, is in business with his father. He
was born at Atchison, March 19, 1869, and was educated in the Northwestern
University, at Evanston, Illinois. He is progressive in his ideas and, like his
father, full of enterprise and awake to every opportunity for increasing their
business. He was married in October, 1895, to Miss Dorothy Jones, of Waupun,
Wisconsin.
Mr. Newcomb is a stanch Republican and is always ready to use his influence in
forwarding the interests of his party, but has never been a politician in the
ordinary acceptation of the term. Both he and his wife are consistent and useful
members of the Methodist Episcopal church, in which he has filled the offices of
trustee, steward and class-leader, in which work he has ever taken a deep
interest. He was a delegate to the general conference of the Methodist Episcopal
church which met in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1892, and at Chicago in 1900, and was
president of the Young Men's Christian Association of Atchison for three years.
For the past fifteen years Mr. Newcomb has been vice-president of the First
National Bank of Atchison, of which he was one of the founders, and ever since a
director. He occupies a large and very handsome residence at 704 North Fourth
street, and his home is a most delightful one, where hospitality and good will
abound. His success in life has been won by hard work and strict business
integrity, and is well deserved.
SAMUEL L NIBLO
This well and favorably known citizen of Benton township enjoys the distinction
of having been one of the youngest enlisted soldiers of the civil war, as he was
less than fourteen years of age when he offered his services and even his life
also if need be to the country of his devotion. It was in February, 1863, that
he became a private of the Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, under Colonel Robert C.
Ingersoll, and he continued faithfully at his post, in spite of his extreme
youth, suffering the hardships of some very severe campaigns with a bravery and
fortitude well worthy of veterans.
The birth of Samuel L. Niblo took place May 2, 1849, in Ireland. His parents,
James and Margaret Niblo, who were of Scotch-Irish ancestry, were Protestants in
religion and were intelligent and upright, having the respect of all who knew
them. They concluded to come to America, where they believed their children
would have better advantages, and accordingly the family crossed the ocean in
1858. The following year a great calamity overtook them, as the wife and mother
died, leaving nine children, comparative strangers in the United States. In
order of birth they were named as follows:Alec; Robert; Maria; Mrs. Jane Kerr,
now of Fordham, New York; John; Sarah Ann; William, of Australia; James, who was
a soldier in the civil war and now resides in New York City.; and Samuel L.
Our subject was two years of age when he left the shores of his native land and
was only ten years old when death deprived him of his loving father's care. In
186o he came west as far as Illinois and for some time attended the public
schools of Rockford. Then followed his meritorious army service and, after he
had been granted