|
BEATY, Benjamin
Shawnee Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 662
Benjamin Beaty, farmer and stock raiser, section 17, is the son of Joseph R. Beaty, a Kentuckian by birth, who was born March 23, 1803. He married Mary Prigmore, also a native of Kentucky. They came to Henry County, Missouri, in 1836. Benjamin was born here April 26, 1839. he passed his younger days in the county of his birth, receiving a common school education. January 26, 1861, he enlisted in Company E, First Missouri Cavalry, and at the battle of Oak Hill received a wound in the foot. He remained in service until the close of the war, when he returned to this county. He owns 304 acres of good land and well improved, upon which is a barn built in 1881, at a cost of over $400. Mr. Beaty is a member of the Masonic fraternity. He was married to Miss Louisa Kimsey, a native of Henry County, March 26, 1868. She was born January 16, 1841. They have six children. Samuel, Joseph, Mary S., Jackson, Abner and Fannie A.
BEATY, Dick Thomas
Shawnee Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 804
Photos: Dick & Mary Beaty
T. D. Beaty, better known as "Dick" Beaty, is a native son of Henry County, and was born September 4, 1870. The old log house in which Mr. Beaty was born is still standing and is one of the historic old landmarks of that section of the county. It was built in 1836. "Dick" Beaty is a son of Louis P., and Frances Gillett Beaty, more extensive mention of whom is made elsewhere in this volume. "Dick" Beaty was reared on the home place and attended school in Little Grant school district. Since boyhood he has been interested in farming and stock raising. In 1902 he purchased two hundred twenty acres, which was formerly known as the Taylor Walker place. Much of this farm was timber land when Mr. Beaty bought it and he proceeded to improve it and build a good six-room residence, 28x30 feet in dimension, and he has also erected other farm buildings until he has one of the well-improved farms of the county. He is engaged in general farming and also raises cattle, hogs and sheep. He became interested in sheep raising in 1917, and now has thirty-five head of high-grade Shropshires. His place is well watered and well adapted to stock raising as well as general farming, and he is one of the successful men of Henry County. Mr. Beaty was united in marriage January 9, 1901. to Miss Mary Paul, a daughter of George and Nannie (Best) Paul, both natives of Kentucky, which is also Mrs. Beaty's native State. They both spent their lives in Kentucky and died in Breckenridge county. Mrs. Beaty has two sisters: Mrs. E. L. Smith of Guston, Kentucky, who is the oldest member of the family and Mrs. O. N. Kasey, Irvington, Kentucky, who is the youngest. By a former marriage of George Paul the following children were born: Mrs. Nannie Moore, deceased; Mrs. Rachel Wood, deceased; Mrs. Alice Gilbert, deceased; Charles, whose address is unknown; Jack, whose address is also unknown; James, Chanute, Kansas; and George, who resides at Clinton, Missouri. To Mr. and Mrs. Beaty have been born the following children: Loraine, died at the age of eighteen months; Paul, Robert and Beulah.
BEATY, James Clark Judge
Shawnee Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 803
Photos: Beaty Brothers
J. C. Beaty, one of the well-known and extensive farmers and stockmen of Shawnee township, is a native of this township and a descendant of one of the pioneer families of Henry County. He was born January 16, 1869, a son of L. P. and Frances (Gillett) Beaty. A more extensive sketch of L. P. Beaty appears in connection with a sketch of Dr. J. G. Beaty in this volume. J. C. Beaty was reared to manhood in Shawnee township and received his education in the district schools of the neighborhood, which has always been his home. Mr. Beaty was reared on a farm and has made farming and stock raising his life's work. He bought his present place which consists of a splendid farm of five hundred eighty acres, in 1908. The place is well improved, with a good residence and is located one and one-fourth miles north of Huntingdale. Mr. Beaty built a large barn in 1908, which is one of the valuable adjuncts to the place. This building is 40x52 feet in dimensions. The place is well watered and an ideal stock farm, one of the best places for general farming purposes in the county. Mr. Beaty raises cattle, hogs and horses, and is also recognized as an extensive feeder. On March 5, 1890, J. C. Beaty was united in marriage with Miss Louella Vance, a daughter of I. M. and Cyrena (Cain) Vance, who now reside at Chilhowee, Missouri. I. M. and Cyrena (Cain) Vance are the parents of the following children: Luella, married J. C. Beaty; Mrs. William Hampton, Warrensburg, Missouri; W. S. Warrensburg, Missouri; E. F., Big Creek township, Henry County; Dr. B. H., Concordia, Kansas; W. H., Kansas City, Missouri; Mrs. John W. Howerton, Big Creek, township, Henry County, and Mrs. B. E. Mothersead, Leadwood, Missouri. To J. C. Beaty and wife have been born two children: J. Carl, married Verlie Swart, daughter of W. S. and Chessie (Ross) Swart, resides on the home place, and Louis V., born March 6, 1893, who resided at home with his parents. He is the present township assessor of Shawnee township, now serving his fourth year. He was educated in the Huntingdale schools and the Norris High School, where he was graduated in class of 1914 and is now a private in the National Army stationed at Camp Funston. The Beaty family is well known and highly respected in Henry County, and rank among the leading pioneer families of this section. J. C. Beaty is one of the well-known and substantial citizens of Henry County. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
BEATY, Joseph George Dr.
Huntingdale, Shawnee Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 800
Dr. J. G. Beaty, a prominent physician and surgeon of Huntingdale, Shawnee township, is a descendant of one of the very early pioneer families of Henry County. He was born in Shawnee township July 21, 1867, a son of L. P. and Frances (Gillett) Beaty, both natives of Shawnee township, the former born October 16, 1837 and the latter in 1846. L. P. Beaty was a Confederate veteran of the Civil War, having served in Company F, 16th Missouri Infantry. After the close of the Civil War he returned to Henry County and was engaged in farming and stock raising for a number of years. He was prominently identified with Henry County in a political way during his lifetime and was perhaps one of the best known men in the county. He was appointed county judge in 1878 by Governor Boggs and re-elected to that office several times, serving seventeen years in all. He represented Henry County in the State Legislature in 1905-1906. He died in 1910. L. P. Beaty was a son of Joseph R. and Mary (Prigmore) Beaty. Joseph R. Beaty was a native of Kentucky and came to Missouri and settled in what is now Shawnee township, Henry County, in 1834. Here he entered four hundred acres of land from the Government, which is still owned by three of his grandsons. His wife, Mary (Prigmore) Beaty, was also a Kentuckian, born May 20, 1817. She came to Missouri with her parents in 1821. They settled at Sweet Springs, Pettis County. In 1836 she was united in marriage with Joseph R. Beaty and she died in 1896. To L. P. and Frances (Gillett) Beaty were born the following children: Dr. J. G. Beaty, the subject of this sketch; J. C., a sketch of whom appears in this volume; D. T., a sketch of whom also appears in this volume; W. L., who resides on the old home place; Albert and May, died in infancy. Dr. J. G. Beaty received a good common school education and entered the Missouri Medical College at St. Louis, Missouri, where he was graduated in 1893 with a degree of Doctor of Medicine. After completing his medical course, Doctor Beaty engaged in the practice of his profession at Shawnee Mound, and here remained for five years. He then located in Huntingdale, where for the past twenty years he has been continuously engaged in the practice of medicine. Doctor Beaty is one of the well qualified and successful physicians of Henry County. He is a close student of the ever advancing science of medicine and has a large practice. Doctor Beaty was commissioned captain in the Medical Corps of the United States Army June 24, 1918, and entered service July 23, 1918. He was sent to Ft. Riley for training and is now at Camp Funston, Kansas, assigned to duty with the 323rd Remount Depot Infirmary No.28. Doctor Beaty was united in marriage in 1896 to Miss Georgia Holcomb. To this union was born one son, Louis Holcomb. The wife and mother died in 1910 and her remains are interred in Colbern Cemetery. On December 9, 1910, Doctor Beaty was united in marriage with Miss Geneva Hibler of Clinton. Doctor Beaty has a pleasant home in Huntingdale and a valuable farm of seventy acres adjoining the townsite. Politically Doctor Beaty is a Democrat and takes a keen interest in matters concerning the public welfare. He is a member of the township board. He takes special interest in road improvement and has done much to make this movement popular in Henry County. He is one of the county's most valued citizens.
BEATY, Lewis Pickett Judge
Shawnee Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 662
Photos: Lewis P. Beaty
Judge Lewis P. Beaty, farmer and stock raiser, section 16, is among the prominent men of this county, and none are more worthy of a representation in this work than he. He was born in Henry County, Missouri, October 16, 1837. His father, Joseph R. Beaty, was a native of Kentucky, and a son of Wilham Beaty, of the same state. Joseph R. was married December 1, 1836, to Miss Mary Prigmore. She was born in Allen County, Kentucky, May 22, 1816, and came to Missouri in 1818, and in 1836 to Henry County. Joseph Beaty died in Henry County May 17, 1843. Lewis P. grew to manhood on the farm upon which he now lives, and obtained his education in the common schools. July 20, 1862, he enlisted in Company F, Sixteenth Missouri Infantry of the Confederate army, and surrendered at Shreveport, Louisiana, June 5, 1865. After this he returned to Henry County, where. he has since followed his chosen occupation, that of a farmer. He owns a landed estate of 175 acres, well improved. September 2, 1873, he was elected judge of the county court, and was re-elected to that office every term until 1882, when he was elected presiding judge of the county court. He is a member of the Christian Church, and belongs to the Masonic fraternity. September 30, 1856, Judge Beaty was married to Miss Frances E. Prewitt, a native of this county, born September 3, 1840. She died June 10, 1876, leaving four children, Joseph G., James C., T. Dick and Walter L. Two children are deceased.
BEATY, William Travis
Deer Creek Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 794
William T. Beaty, a pioneer citizen of Henry County, was born in Cumberland County, Kentucky, October 27, 1804. His father, Alexander Beaty, was a native of Virginia, and his mother, whose maiden name was Catherine Travis, came originally from Maryland. The former served in the revolutionary war. He removed to Kentucky at an early day and was one of the first settlers of Cumberland County. William T. was reared on a farm, and while young learned the gunsmith's trade. In 1830 he came to Missouri and located first in Saline County, and worked at his trade five years. removing to Henry County in 1835. He was one of the first settlers here, and soon entered land and improved the farm where he now resides. Mr. Beaty was married in this county February 25, 1836, to Miss Sallie Pinnell, a native of Virginia and a daughter of F. A. Pinnell. They reared a family of three children, all of whom are married and reside in Henry County. Mrs. Beaty died May 23, 1876.
BEEDY, John Creighton
Windsor Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 557
Mr. Beedy is of English extraction, the families of both his parents having emigrated to America from that country and settled in New Hampshire before the revolutionary war. Jeremiah Beedy, his grandfather, was born in New Hampshire and was a soldier during the revolution, and after that event continued his chosen avocation until his death. His son John was born in Gilmanton, New Hampshire, in 1800, and settled in Bolton, Vermont, while a young man, where he pursued the labors of an agriculturist until 1851. During this time he took an active part in local and state politics, filling various official positions and serving two years in the lower house of the state assembly. He then moved to Montpelier, Vermont, where, after a useful and honorable life, he died in 1873. He married Betsey L. Fifield, daughter of Samuel Fifield, who came from England and located upon a farm in New Hampshire. They had six children, all of whom are now living. Their son John C. was born in Bolton, Chittenden County, Vermont, July 21, 1834, and until his seventeenth year attended the public schools in Bolton. Upon his parents removing to Montpelier he was placed in the academy in that city, where he remained until he was twenty years of age. After working a year at home upon his father's farm he turned his steps toward the great west, and came to Janesville, Wisconsin, and taught school one year. For the next two and a half years he was engaged in the lumber business, first for his uncle and afterward for a Milwaukee firm. At the expiration of that period he went to St. Louis and was employed as traveling salesman for his uncle in the lumber trade, and going to Syracuse, Missouri, he continued it for two years. He then located in Sedalia, Missouri, and in two years sold out his lumber interests and commenced general trading and supplying government stores. In company with McKay, Hood and McAllister, of St. Louis, he contracted to supply the hospitals at Vicksburg and interior points with provisions and stores. In 1863, in company with Thomas McAllister, he established the wholesale grocery house of J. C. Beedy & Co. at New Orleans, engaging also in cotton and sugar growing, and in general speculation. He was with General Banks in 1864 on his memorable Red River expedition, buying and shipping cotton. In the spring of 1866 the grocery firm of J. C. Beedy & Co. disposed of their stock, and he devoted himself exclusively to cotton planting for two seasons. Returning to Missouri he embarked quite extensively in farming operations in Johnson County, which he continued until 1869, when resuming his old business, he opened a lumber yard in Knob Noster, which he closed after one year's trade. Then he established yards in Clinton and Windsor, soon disposing of the former, but continuing the latter until 1874, when he accepted the general management and agency of the Eau Claire Lumber Company, St. Louis. Remaining in charge only one year he returned to Windsor, where he is now engaged in the lumber trade. Since coming here he has taken large contracts for the United States mail service, in company with Morse & Hines, of Windsor. In 1877 he organized, together with Mr. C. C. Morse and others, the Windsor Savings Bank, with a capital of $50,000, and since that time he has been president of the bank corporation. Mr. Beedy is a Democrat, and takes quite an active part in local politics and in all municipal and educational affairs. He has been a member of the city council, and was one of the school board who built the school buildings which does the city so much credit. He has also served the city as its mayor. He married Miss Ellen Victoria, daughter of Joel and Charlotte (Colyer) Goldsburg, of Barre, Vermont, October 23, 1867. He has three children, Lula Annette, Nellie and John Goldsburg. Mr. Beedy has contributed generously to the building and support of the various churches erected in Windsor. In 1876 he went to the centennial and took an extended tour through the eastern states, visiting the principal cities and places of interest. He is a good financier, a man of progressive ideas, and liberal in devising for the interests of the community in which he lives, and has done much to develop the trade of his town and county. He is a man of fine physical appearance, social and pleasant in his address, is just in the prime of manhood, full of life and business energy, and has acquired a handsome property. He is one of the firm who built the fruit evaporator in Windsor in 1882. He is also associated with Mr. Gorham in developing a vein of coal on the latter's farm, equaling, if not surpassing, in quality any yet found in the county.
BELLINGHAUSEN, William
Montrose, Deepwater Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 495
William Bellinghausen. The 160 acre farm of William Bellinghausen, just north of the town of Montrose in Deepwater township, is well improved with an imposing residence located almost in the center of the tract, excellent farm buildings and fencing kept in good repair, much of which is growing hedges. Since Mr. Bellinghausen took possession of this tract in 1902 he has added considerably to the value of the farm by making substantial improvements and increasing the productivity of the soil. The crops planted for the harvest of this year (1918) aggregate fifty-five acres of corn, thirty-five acres of wheat, which yielded twenty bushels to the acre, and thirty acres of oats, which gave a yield of twenty-two bushels to the acre. Mr. William Bellinghausen was born at Homerich, Germany, March 7, 1855, the son of Dominic and Helena (Eich) Bellinghausen, the former of whom died in Germany. His widow then married John Schmitz, who brought the family to America in 1881. The family located in Carroll County, Iowa, where both stepfather and mother died. Mr. Bellinghausen became a naturalized citizen in Iowa and has ever since been a thoroughly loyal citizen to the land of his adoption. To America he owes all that he possesses and the opportunity was presented to him here to accumulate and make an independent home for him and his for all time to come. He became owner of an Iowa farm in 1895 which he sold in 1901, and came to Henry County and invested in his present fine farm. In 1896 he was married to Mrs. Gertrude (Koenig) Bellinghausen, a widow who had three children by her former marriage: Lizzie, a Sister in the convent at Marie Stein, Ohio; Joseph, died in Henry County; Peter, born in April, 1894, a soldier in the National Army now on the battlefield of France fighting in defense of the liberties of the free peoples of the world. The following children have been born to William M. and Gertrude Bellinghausen: Lena, employed in St. Mary's Hospital at Kansas City; William, Annie, employed in St. Mary's Hospital; Margaret, Dominic and Leo, at home. Mr. Bellinghausen is a Democrat but has little time for political matters, his main interest in life being his fine farm and family to which he is very much devoted. He and his family worship at the Catholic Church of Montrose. He is fraternally affiliated with the Knights of Columbus and so are his sons, Peter and William.
BENNETT, James Edwin
Clinton, Clinton Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 342
James E. Bennett, a former Henry County sheriff who has been prominently identified with the affairs of this county for a number of years, is a native of Kentucky. He was born June 19, 1850, and is a son of John and Martha (Ham) Bennett, both natives of Kentucky and descendants of Kentucky pioneer stock. James E. Bennett's parents moved to Bates County from Benton County, Missouri in 1856, when James was six years of age. They first settled in Benton County and after remaining a short time there went to the western part of Bates County and settled on a farm not farm from the Kansas State line. This section was in the heart of the Border War district. When the Civil War broke out the father joined the cause of Confederacy, serving under General Price. A few months after the outbreat of the war he returned to his Bates County home and removed his family to Henry County on what is known as the Lafe Cruse place, near where Cook's old mill stood on the Grand River. About a year later the family went to Pettis county. After the war the father bought a place in Pettis county on Flat Creek. Here he followed farming, meeting with a fair degree of success until his death. The mother survived him eight years. Both died on the old home place on Flat creek in Pettis County. James E. Bennett was one of a family of eleven children, ten of whom are now living: W. T., Orange California; G. L., Green Ridge, Missouri; James E., the subject of this sketch; H. L. Spokane, Washington; Susan, married Milton Durrell, lonia, Missouri; Martha J., married May Field, who is now deceased and she resides at Hot Springs, Arkansas; Walter L., Rockville, Missouri; Lillie, married Philip Snovall, a member of the board of county judges at Benton County, and resides at lonia, Missouri; John M., Brownington, Missouri; and Ed A., who resides on the old home place in Pettis County. Of the ten members of this family, the youngest is fifty-one years of age and the oldest about seventy-two. The boyhood days of James E. Bennett were spent amidst the scenes and hardships of the Border and Civil Wars, and he has a distinct recollection of many of the tragedies of that time. He witnessed a number of minor engagements between the contending factions and many of the events of those times left an indelible impression on his mind. He was reared on a farm and received his education in the schools which the early times afforded and began life as a farmer in the vicinity of Windsor, Missouri. About 1880 he was elected marshal of Windsor, serving in that capacity for six years, and during that time he also held the office as constable. He was then appointed deputy sheriff of Henry County under Sheriff W. J. Ellison, and had charge of the county jail during the latter part of Sheriff Ellison's administration. Sheriff Ellison was succeeded by Sheriff James H. Calloway, and Mr. Bennett was appointed deputy sheriff under Sheriff Calloway, continuing to have charge of the jail for four years more. He was then elected sheriff of Henry County, and at the expiration of his first term, was re-elected and served for four years. In going out of the office of sheriff, Mr. Bennett left a record as one of the capable and conscientious officers of Henry County. At the close of his official career, Mr. Bennett bought a farm, near Windsor, where he was engaged in farming and stock raising about eight years. In 1904 he came to Clinton and since that time has been engaged in buying and selling horses and mules, and he is one of the extensive dealers in that line in this section of the State. On June 17, 1873, James E. Bennett was united in marriage with Miss Catherine I. Hines, a daughter of Brantley and Elizabeth (Douglas) Hines. The father was a soldier in the Confederate Army and when the war ended he was in Texas in the service of the "lost cause." After the close of the war and while on his way home, on a transport on the Red River, the boat sank on account of overloading and he was drowned. To Mr. and Mrs. Bennett have been born four children, as follows: Mary Myrtle (oldest), married Charles Gray, and is now deceased; Walter, supervisor of the State Hospital at Nevada, Missouri; Wallace, who is engaged in the transfer business at Long Beach, California; Edwin, associated with his father in business in Clinton. Mr. Bennett has been identified with the Democratic party since boyhood, and it may be truly said of him that he is a staunch Democrat. He is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workman and the Modern Woodmen of America. He is a public spirited and progressive citizen and there are few, if any, men in Henry County who have more friends than "Jim" Bennett.
BENNETT, John Milton
Osage Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 817
John M. Bennett, a prominent farmer and stock raiser of Osage township, was born December 27, 1855, in Benton County, Missouri, the son of John and Martha (Ham) Bennett. John Bennett, Sr., was born 1820 in Logan County, Kentucky, where with his parents he shared the pioneer hardships and experiences. In 1856 he moved to West Point, Bates County, and engaged in farming. While conducting his peaceful occupation of tilling the soil until the Civil War broke out. Mr. Bennett joined the Confederate Army, enlisting at West Point, Missouri, in Raines' Division of Price's Army. Four years of warfare brought many experiences to the men who fought under starry skies and the bright glaring sun, but soon, the dove of peace bad again spread her wings over our nation and the boys in blue and grey resumed their peaceful occupations. Mr. John Bennett, Sr., and Martha Ham were married and ten children were born to their union, all of whom are living. They are as follows: William F., residing at Orange, California; Green L., a merchant of Green Ridge, Missouri; James E., ex-sheriff of Henry County, now living at Clinton, Missouri; Susan, the wife of Judge Milton Rurrell of Pettis County, Missouri; John M., subject of this sketch; Martha J., wife of Robert Mayfield of Little Rock, Arkansas; Mrs. Lillie Schnabel, judge of Benton County Court; Harrison, Spokane, Washington; Walter L., Rockville, Missouri; Edward, operating the home farm in Pettis County, Missouri. In 1830, when the Ham family moved from Franklin, Howard County, the Indians were still among his native haunts and resented the coming of the white man upon his hunting grounds. Mr. Ham located near Windsor and for many years worked hard to reclaim the virgin soil to civilized fertility. His daughter, Martha (Ham) Bennett, was born in 1822 in Howard County and died in 1906. Her husband had been laid to rest in 1883. John M. Bennett, the subject of this sketch, received his education in Pettis County and until 1901, he followed farming pursuits in that county. In 1901 he came to Henry County and purchased the present farm and has successfully conducted his business here since then. He owns 342 acres of land and raises cattle and sheep, as well as carrying on general farming. March 15, 1863, John Bennett and Willie S. Hines were united in marriage. They are the parents of five children, as follows: Virgil, a soldier in the National Army now at Camp Funston; James R., Jewel Ruby, Grace, and Naomi, who continue to make their home with their parents. Mrs. Bennett was the daughter of Brantley and Margaret (Douglas) Hines. Brantley Hines was a member of the Confederate Army and upon returning to his home was drowned as the boat "Kentucky," sank in the Red River. Mrs. Hines lived to a good old age and is now laid to rest in the Windsor Cemetery. Mr. Bennett and his son Virgil are members of the Modern Woodmen of America, and Mrs. Bennett affiliates with the Royal Neighbors, also a member of the Christian Church.
BENSON, Sidney R.
Shawnee Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 789
The family tree of the Benson family has its roots in the earliest history of our Nation, members of which have given their lives to evolve this great democratic Government. S. R. Benson was born in 1844 in Jackson County, Iowa, the son of John and Almeda (Green) Benson. John Benson and his wife were among the pioneers of Iowa, settling upon her broad prairies when men laughed at the mere possibility of it ever being an agricultural country. John Benson was born in 1796 in Cattaraugus County, New York, and his wife was born in Green County, New York, in 1810. Mrs. Almeda Green was the daughter of a Revolutionary soldier who was captured by the British and taken into Canada, a prisoner of war. He effected his escape and crossed the Niagara River back into his own country. For many days he was dependent upon nature for food, eating the berries and bark of the trees. Such privations were endured by the men who fought for liberty. John and Almeda (Green) Benson are both deceased and are buried in Grundy County, Iowa. They were the parents of twelve children: Ursula, married Edwin Parker in Hardin County, Iowa; Sylvia, wife of J. Linley, Bloomington, Illinois; Matilda, Bloomington, Illinois; Effie Swayne of Harding County, Iowa; Solon F., a banker of Pierson, Iowa; Horace J., lives in Kentucky, and S. R., the subject of this sketch. S. R. Benson was reared and educated in Delaware County, Iowa, where his parents lived for some time. In 1864, when only a lad of twenty and the fire of adventure burning high within his breast, he left the parental roof to explore the western lands. He crossed the Missouri at Omaha, Nebraska, and followed the Platte river until he reached his destination in Montana. The slow and steady ox team was his conveyance and the stars by night his shelter. S. R. Benson and his brother, Edwin, started on this trip across the plains together. The brother died on the plains and S. R. was left alone. He continued on alone, taking his brother's body with him until he came upon a party of campers who helped him make a rough coffin out of a wagon box and assisted in the burial. Leaving the lone grave of his brother by the side of the trail on the desert, Mr. Benson continued his journey westward until he reached Virginia City, Montana. Four years and eight months later he returned to Hardin County, Iowa, where he was married to Lucinda Griffith and again they left their home to visit the state of Colorado. His wife died in Colorado, leaving two sons: Lester S. and Charles W., who reside at Stewart, Wyoming. Mr. Benson remained in Colorado until 1884, when he went to Washington County, Kansas, and farmed until in 1903, when he came to Shawnee township, Henry County. September 29, 1886, S. R. Benson married Mary Catherine Woods, a native of Jewell County, Kansas, and a daughter of Richard and Mary J. Woods, both deceased. Her father died in 1860 in Iowa and her mother, who married Obed Hastings after her first husband died in Jewell County, Kansas. Mr. and Mrs. Benson have two sons, R. H. and Vernon B., both serving in the United States Army in the World War. Mr. Benson is the owner of four hundred forty acres of well improved land on which he has made wonderful improvements since his possession of same. A portion of his land is farmed by a tenant, who has a new home and buildings built for him. Mr. Benson is a Democrat and one of Henry County's foremost citizens.
BERRY, Robert Henley Courts
Tebo Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 630
Robert Henley Courts Berry was born May 13, 1827, in Olham County, Kentucky, being the son of Jonathan T. Berry, born in 1776, in Henry County, Kentucky. His mother, formerly Eleanor M. Taylor, was born in Jefferson County, of the same state. They were married in 1825, and to them were born eleven children. Of these only four are now living, three daughters and one son. They emigrated from Kentucky to Henry County, Missouri, in 1835, and in that year Mr. B. entered a tract of land of 740 acres, mostly in Windsor, but on the line of that and Tebo Townships. He remained a resident of the county until his death, June 6, 1872. He was for many years judge of this county, and was acting judge at the outbreak of the war, in 1861. Mrs. B. now resides with William R. Taylor, of Windsor Township. R. H. C. Berry, their only surviving son, married Miss Olivia N., daughter of Dr. William and Ann E. Taylor, of Olham County, Kentucky. By this union there were seven children, of whom six survive, four daughters and two sons. Eleanor C., born June 23, 1854, married William Hurt, February 6, 1883; Jonathan T., born May 22, 1856; Lawrence W., born November 11, 1857, now in New Mexico; Ann E., born October 5, 1859, married Benjamin Palmer, of Henry County, June 5, 1881; Virginia M., born July 2, 1862, died March 6, 1865; Olivia M., was born June 19, 1865; Lucy Alice was born January 13, 1868. In 1853 Mr. Berry purchased a farm of 160 acres in Windsor Township, and after his marriage he settled upon it, soon adding forty acres. Here he remained for nearly four years, then purchasing 353 acres. To this he has added thirty-nine acres, and he has steadily pursued farming since 1858. He deals in stock quite largely, and also raises it to some extent. Their daughters, Mrs. Hurt and Palmer, are members of the Baptist Church of Calhoun. His political sentiments are Democratic.
BETTELS, Bernard J. "Barney"
Deepwater Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 475
Barney Bettels. For the past twenty-five years, Bernard or Barney Bettels, has resided upon his fine farm of 195 acres in Deepwater township, and during this time he has been constantly improving his place, which includes seventy acres of timber and pasture land. The Bettels home sets far back from the road about half way across the farm land. The Bettels farm is in three tracts, 100 acres of which comprises the home place. Barney Bettels was born in Germany September 1, 1867, the son of Frank and Gertrude Bettels, who emigrated to America in April, 1871, and settled in St. Charles County, Missouri. In 1873 they went to St. Louis County, Missouri, the mother having died in St. Charles County. Mr. Bettels attended school in St. Louis and resided there until 1881. When he attained the age of thirteen years he came to Henry County and lived with his brother William for three years and finished his schooling at Germantown, after which he drew wages under Bernard Schmedding. He worked for two years for Joseph Cook and one year for Mr. Wincke, receiving $100 per year for three years. In August of 1889 he went to California and was employed on a large grain ranch in Tulare County for three and a half years, then returned to Henry County. His brother, Fred Bettels, dying, he purchased his brother's farm for $1,500. He has prospered and added to his acreage and laid away money during the years that he has been engaged in farming and is regarded as one of the substantial and enterprising' land owners of Henry County. June 21, 1893, Barney Bettels and Minnie Cook were united in marriage. Mrs. Minnie Bettels was born in Henry County, June 2, 1871, and is the daughter of John J. Cook of Germantown, a sketch of whom appears in this volume. To them have been born children as follows: Leo, born May 24, 1894, member of the Knights of Columbus and assisting his father on the farm, now a private in the National Army; Bernardine, born January 21, 1896; Clements, born October 3, 1898; Della Margaret, born December 3, 1901; Rosa Emma, born February 15, 1905; Magdalena Mary, born February 21, 1908; Elenora Anna, born February 4, 1911. Mr. Bettels is a Democrat, but he devotes little time to political matters outside of voting. He and his family are members of the Germantown Catholic Church.
BETTELS, William
Germantown, Deepwater Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 869
William Bettels - The Bettels family is one of the most substantial and respected in Henry County, every member of which has succeeded in accumulating a competence and are farm owners in the neighborhood of Germantown, in Deepwater township. Forty-eight years ago Frank and Gertrude Bettels left their old home in Hanover, Germany, and crossed the ocean with their family of six sons and four daughters, landing at New York City. They at once came to Missouri and settled in St. Charles County, residing there until 1876, at which time they came to Henry County, Missouri. The sons of the family had preceded the parents in the removal to Henry County. Frank Bettels died in 1905 at the age of 75 years. His wife, Gertrude, is deceased. The children of Frank and Gertrude Bettels are as follow: Joseph died in Henry County, in 1915; William, subject of this review; Frank, a resident of St. Louis; Ferdinand died in 1903; August, a prosperous farmer of Walker township; Bernard, a farmer in Deepwater township; Henry, a resident of Deepwater township; Sophia, deceased. William Bettels was born in Hanover, Germany, in 1851, and was nineteen years of age when he accompanied his parents to America. He came to Henry County from St. Charles County in 1874 and during the first two years of his residence in this county he worked at farm labor. During these two years he saved his earnings and then invested in his present farm, which he purchased in 1876. The Bettels farm consists of 140 acres and is located three miles southwest of Germantown in Deepwater township. The place is nicely improved with a good home and farm buildings, all of which have been erected by the proprietor, who has otherwise beautified the surroundings with shrubbery and evergreen, making the farm a very attractive one. Mr. Bettels was married in 1876 to Margaret Hoele (born 1851, died 1911), the daughter of Matthias Hoele, a pioneer settler of Henry County, of German extraction. Seven children were born to William and Margaret Bettels, as follow: Mrs. Kate Weisman, Walker township; Frank Bettels, born 1883, married in 1914 to Anna Tilling, and father of one child, Ida, born January 11, 1915, is tilling the home farm; Sophia is a teacher in the parochial schools of Belleville; Lena and Ida are teachers in the parochial schools of St. Louis. The Democratic party has always had the unqualified support of William Bettels, who is considered one of the best citizens of this county. He and his family are members of the Catholic Church.
BIFFER, Andrew
Clinton Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 497
Andrew Biffer, dealer in furniture, etc., is a native of Germany and was born October 30, 1841. He was there reared and educated, and according to the laws of that country, enlisted when twenty years of age in the army for five years. In December, 1865, he emigrated to America, and after a residence in New York City of two months he went to Louisville. Kentucky, remaining for three months. Later he was a resident of Belleville, Illinois. for six months, and upon going to Quincy, Illinois, was engaged at the trade of cabinet making. After residing there nearly one year he came to Kirksville, Missouri, in February, 1871, and embarked in the furniture business, continuing with great success till June, 1880, when he established his present furniture store in Clinton. He carries a large stock of goods in his line, and is doing about the principal share of trade at this place. Mr. Biffer was married October 10, 1870, to Miss Katherine Frazier, a native of Missouri. They have two children, Anna and Mary. He is a member of the Odd Fellows' fraternity.
BIGGS, Samuel
Clinton, Clinton Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 670
Samuel Biggs, a well known stock dealer of Clinton, Missouri, is a native of Henry County. He was born near Alberta in Bethlehem township, October 8, 1875. He is a son of John and Elizabeth (Arnold) Biggs, both natives of Kentucky. the former born in Rockcastle County, September 5, 1833, and the latter born in Warren County, December 24, 1840, and now reside in Clinton, Missouri. John Biggs left his native State in 1849 and went to Illinois and in 1868 came to Missouri. John and Elizabeth (Arnold) Biggs were married in Illinois March 22, 1857, and the following children were born to them: Mary, now the wife of Allen Faith, Clinton, Missouri; John; Jane, now the wife of John Ellis, Versailles; Ed B., Montrose, Missouri; James and Charles, twins, died in infancy; Laura, now the wife of Decatur Jennings, Kansas City, Missouri; S. D., lives at Buffalo, Kansas; Samuel, the subject of this sketch, and Minnie, married Horace Houtes. Samuel Biggs was reared on a farm in Henry County and educated in the district schools. He engaged in farming, which he made his principal occupation until 1911, when he came to Clinton, and since that time has been engaged in buying and selling mules and cattle, and today is one of the extensive live stock dealers of the county. His operations are by no means confined to Henry County. He is one of the well known buyers of southwestern Missouri. Mr. Biggs was united in marriage April 21, 1911, with Miss Oka McLane, a daughter of F. E. and Matilda F. (Wynn) McLane. The former was a native of Missouri and the latter of Indiana. The father died in 1909 and the mother now resides at Windsor. They were the parents of the following children: Stella, married R. E. Stiff, Boise City, Idaho; Pearl, married Jack Oaks, Bates County, Missouri; Oka, the wife of Samuel Biggs, the subject of this sketch; Bert, Kansas City, Missouri; Roy, Hot Springs, Arkansas; Finis, Kansas City, Missouri; Grover, Benton County, Missouri; Ida, married Fred Gray, Calhoun, Missouri; May, married Joe Brodley, Pleasant Hill, Missouri; Ethel, married Grover Stone, Marshall, Missouri, and Ruby, Kansas City, Missouri. Mr. and Mrs. Biggs reside at 811 East Ohio street and are among the leading people of Clinton.
BILDERBACK, Thomas Jefferson
Osage Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 736
Photos: Bilderback Home
Thomas J. Bilderback - The "Walnut Grove Stock Farm," located in Osage township, is owned and operated by Mr. T. J. Bilderback, a progressive farmer who realizes the opportunities of raising and feeding cattle in this section. The ideal conditions of living within a corn-growing district where feed of the right sort is plentiful and easy access to the large city markets offers unusual advantages to the stockman. Mr. Bilderback was born in Laclede County, Missouri, May 7, 1855, and is the son of Thomas B. and Sarah (Rimmers) Bilderback. Thomas Bilderback was born February 3, 1822, in Pennsylvania, the son of Daniel and Sarah (Castleman) Bilderback. His parents moved from Pennsylvania, to Ohio and from there to Illinois and to Laclede County, Missouri, in 1847. They were the first settlers in the vicinity when they settled, the closest neighbor being fifteen miles and the gristmill, twenty-five miles away. When the Civil War broke out Mr. Bilderback served in the Union Army for four years, and at its close returned to his farm in Laclede County and farmed until his death, May 19, 1894. Mrs. Sarah (Rimmers) Bilderback was born in November, 1825, a native of Tennessee. She died July 4, 1890 and was buried in Bilderback Cemetery, where her husband was later laid away. They were the parents of seven children: Elizabeth, deceased; Sarah J., deceased; Henry L., Judson, Stephen W., Thomas J., and Elzina. Thomas J. Bilderback was educated in Laclede County schools and previous to his coming to Henry County in 1885 he farmed there. In 1890 he purchased 120 acres and later added 200 more acres, making 320 acres that he is farming. A small two-room house was on the premises at the time he purchased it, which he replaced in 1894 by a seven-room home. He has two barns and a silo. The first barn used for his cattle is 40x100 feet with a silo. A car track conveys the ensilage from the silo to the feeding troughs. The second barn used for the horses is 60x80 feet. Mr. Bilderback ships three carloads of cattle and two carloads of hogs each year. On August 4, 1885, Thomas T. Bilderback and Nancy C. Stewart were united in marriage and have the following children: Earl C., married Clara Crabtree, Abbey, Canada; Pearl, wife of Claude Joplin, of Kansas City, Missouri; W. M., deceased; Ada, Katryne and Golson, at home. Mrs. Nancy Bilderback was born November 22, 1867, the daughter of Henry H. and Rebecca F. (Curd) Stewart, who were both born in Henry County, the former now living at Albion, Oklahoma, aged 76 years, and the latter died on December 5, 1876. They were the parents of the following: Ada, deceased; Nancy Katherine, wife of T. J. Bilderback; John H., Albion, Oklahoma; William, Deepwater, Missouri; Francis, Seattle, Washington. Henry H. Stewart was married the second time to Mrs. Lizzie (Rickett) Jackson, a widow, who bore him two sons: George, Romona, Oklahoma; and Earl, Albion, Oklahoma. The Walnut Grove Stock Farm is indeed a credit to the county and Mr. Bilderback and his family are valuable citizens.
BLACK, Taylor
Windsor, Windsor Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 539
Taylor Black, manager of the Livingston Elevator and Milling Company, Windsor, Missouri, was born March 8, 1871, in Windsor. He is the son of David D. and Eliza (Taylor) Black, who were parents of six children: Birdie, died in 1893; Taylor, subject of this sketch; John M., deceased; Bolyn F. and James R., living in Kansas City and has been for several years a member of the Kansas City police force; William, deceased. David D. Black was born in Boone County, Missouri, in 1839, dying in 1913. He was a farmer during his life, locating in Henry County in 1860. He was the son of William Black, a Baptist minister and a native of Kentucky and pioneer settler of Boone County, Missouri. Mrs. Eliza (Taylor) Black was born in Windsor township in 1843 and departed this life in 1915. She was the daughter of Richard F. and Ann (Fitzhugh) Taylor. Richard F. Taylor served as captain of cavalry in the Confederate army during the Civil War. He was one of the earliest settlers of Windsor and started the first general merchandise store in the town, coming to Henry County from his native state of Kentucky. Taylor Black was reared and educated in Windsor and engaged in the milling business in 1892 in the employ of the Windsor Milling Company. He remained with this concern until 1904. During 1900 and 1901 he was employed as traveling salesman for one of the leading Kansas mills. In 1904 he became manager of the Livingston Mill and Elevator Company at Windsor and is capably filling this position at the present time. Mr. Black was married on May 28, 1902, to Miss Fame Bibb, who was born in Warsaw, Missouri. Three children have been born of this marriage: Mary, Florence and Naomi. Mr. Black is a Democrat in politics and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. He is fraternally affiliated with the Knights of Pythias Lodge and occupies a leading place in the citizenship of his native city.
BLACKFORD, Albert J.
Clinton Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 497
Albert J. Blackford, dealer in millinery and fancy dry goods. was born in Hancock County, Ohio, August 10, 1844. He made his home there till 1859. when he removed to Clinton, DeWitt County, Illinois, engaging in the printing trade in the Transcript office. He remained a " typo" oil that paper till 1862. Then he enlisted in the United States Army, Company F, 107th Regiment Illinois, and served through General Sherman's Atlanta campaign, and with General Thomas through his Tennessee campaign. and was mustered out as captain of his company, at Springfield, Illinois. in July, 1865 He then returned to Clinton, Illinois, and embarked in the dry goods business, the firm being Taylor & Blackford. They continued business until Mr. Blackford came to this city, in 1872. He has a large and well selected stock of goods and is enjoying a liberal patronage. He was united in marriage May 4, 1862, to Miss Mary E. Taylor, of Ohio birth. They have one child, Charlie T. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and also of the Knights of Pythias.
BLACKMORE, Thomas Albert Dr.
Windsor, Windsor Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 531
Dr. T. Albert Blackmore, M.D. - As a learned and competent physician, who has kept pace with the great developments in the science and art of healing, Dr. T. Albert Blackmore holds a place in the front rank of the medical profession in Henry County. During the years which he has been practicing in the city of Windsor, he has endeared himself to the people, and has made a distinct and unqualified success. Dr. Blackmore was born in Lincoln County, Missouri, January 18, 1873, and is the son of Thomas and Rebecca (Evans) Blackmore. Thomas Blackmore was the son of a Missouri pioneer, Samuel Blackmore, who first settled in this State in the late twenties, coming to Missouri from his native State, Kentucky. Thomas Blackmore was born in Lincoln County, Missouri, October 20, 1840, and followed farming and stock raising during his entire life. His wife, Rebecca Evans, prior to her marriage, was born near Shelbyville, Kentucky, left an orphan in infancy and came to Missouri when young. Thomas Blackmore was a soldier in the Civil War, having enlisted in a Union volunteer regiment at Calhoun, Illinois, and served for about seven months, receiving an honorable discharge from the service on account of sick disability incurred while on duty. Soon after his discharge, he returned to Missouri and settled on a farm in Lincoln County where he remained until his death, in 1886, peacefully and industriously engaged in tilling his acreage. Six children were born to Thomas and Rebecca (Evans) Blackmore as follows: Two sisters died in infancy; Mrs. Elizabeth Avery, Troy, Missouri; Belle, Troy, Missouri; Mrs. Ida Martin, Canada; and T. Albert, subject of this review. The care of this family devolved upon the widowed mother, after the death of Thomas Blackmore, when J. Albert was thirteen years of age. The situation naturally called for his assistance in the farm work and keeping the family together and he faithfully did his part in helping his mother. He attended the district schools and remained upon the home farm until he attained his majority. He then entered Buchanan College, at Troy, Missouri, and pursued a classical course in preparation for the study of medicine which he undertook in the St. Louis College of Medicine, graduating in 1898. Doctor Blackmore began the practice of his profession at Olney, Missouri, and remained there seven and a half years, then located in Windsor, where he has won a high place for himself not only in the ranks of his profession but as a citizen whose worth is recognized. Aside from his practice Doctor Blackmore is interested in various enterprises, locally and in Oklahoma and Arkansas. November 1, 1900, Dr. T. Albert Blackmore and Miss Lenora Thurman, the daughter of Thomas and Minnie (Powell) Thurman of Troy, Missouri, were united in marriage. Thomas Thurman was a native of Lincoln County, Missouri, who followed farming until he located in Troy, Missouri, where he engaged in the real estate business and also served as city marshal of Troy. Four children have been born to Doctor and Mrs. Blackmore, as follows: Thomas Ernest, born April 20, 1904; Thurman Evans, born December 12, 1905; Albert Hamilton, born September 20, 1908; and Charles Powell, born October 18, 1913. The Democratic party and Democratic principles of government have always had the warm support of Doctor Blackmore, who served as coroner of Lincoln County, Missouri, for two years. Doctor Blackmore is president of the Henry County Medical Society, and is a member of the Missouri State Medical Association, and the American Medical Association. He is affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias, and the Modern Woodmen of America. Dr. Blackmore was commissioned a captain in the Officers' Medical Reserve Corps of the National Army on August 8, 1918.
BLACKWELL, James H.
Tebo Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 630
The subject of this sketch was born in Macon County, Missouri, February 19, 1834, being the third son and the fifth child of a family of eight children, of William and Elizabeth Blackwell. William Blackwell was born in Madison County, Kentucky, January 13, 1797, and was married September 18, 1823, to Miss Elizabeth Lynch, a native of Virginia, and daughter of Henry Lynch, a Revolutionary veteran. William Blackwell immigrated to Missouri and settled in Boone County November 7, 1827, living there one year, when he went to Howard, where he resided three years. In 1831, he removed to the territory of what is now Macon County, then a portion of Randolph, where he. lived till his death, which occurred in July, 1882, in the eighty-sixth year of his age. His widow still lives on the same farm, being eighty-four years of age. Mr. Blackwell well remembers the time when the country in which he was born was almost a wilderness, when it was too remote from the settlements to have what would now be termed the necessaries of life. When the few inhabitants had to go from thirty to forty miles to mill, when they could not get shoes or boots, and in consequence wore moccasins, and the men wore a great deal of dressed buckskin clothing, when nearly every man laid. in his barrel of wild honey every fail from the woods, when deer, wildcats, catamounts, wolves and panthers were plentiful. He worked with his father on the farm till twenty-one years of age, receiving what education he could obtain in the common schools at odd times when he could be spared from the farm. From early boyhood he had serious religious impressions made upon his mind, to a great extent though the instrumentality of his mother, who was an earnest Methodist, and afterward by his father, who become a faithful Cumberland Presbyterian, and when about thirteen years old, at an old fashioned camp meeting, made a public profession of faith, and soon after joined the M. E. Church South, of which he has lived an humble member ever since. In 1855, he started in the world for himself by teaching his first school, near Lancaster, Schuyler County, in which he succeeded well. In 1856, he taught in Howard County, and in 1857, being ambitious for higher attainments in education, entered Central College at Fayette, remaining during two sessions. In 1858, he taught school in Randolph County, and in 1859 and 1861, in Chariton County. Although Mr. Blackwell had received an early Whig training, and cast his first vote for Millard Fillmore for president, yet he had been taught that ours was a federal union, and steadfastly believed in the doctrine of state sovereignty; hence, when the southern states began to secede he doubted not their constitutional right to do so, but thought it bad policy, that it would result badly, and when the war broke out in 1861 he went with his convictions of right, rather than those of policy, and entered the army as sergeant major of Bevier's regiment, M. S. G., August 8, 1861. In February 1862. being severely afflicted with chronic ophthalmia, he left the army for medical treatment, and came to the northern portion of Henry County, where he remained five months, during which time he resolved to make Henry County his home, if he should ever get through the war, where he had found such a rich, lime stone soil, so genial and healthful a climate, and last, but not least, such a kind hearted people, such as the Walls, the Fewells, the Averys, the Wilsons, the Wylies and the Garretts. In August, 1862, he assisted in raising a company of men, of which he was elected first lieutenant, and was sworn into the Confederate service proper at Sutliff's Mill in Bates County, by Colonel J. V. Cockrell August 14, 1862, and on the 16th commanded his company in the hard fought little battle of Lone Jack. Mr. B. then retreated with the Confederate forces to Arkansas, where he remained till July, 1865, (after the Confederate surrender) when he returned to his people in Macon County, broken down in health and in fortune. In 1866 he again resumed his old profession as teacher in Howard County, and so continued, receiving good wages, till October, 1867, when he returned to Henry. On the 17th of November he was married to Miss Fannie Gilbert, daughter of Samuel D. Gilbert, who had been a prominent minister of the Regular Baptist Church, and a granddaughter of Major William M. Wall. Mr. Blackwell has ever since his marriage, followed farming and teaching at intervals. His marriage relation was of the happiest type, his wife being a favorite of all, till in 1875 she became a victim to consumption, and died December 20, 1876, loved and regretted by all. Mr. Blackwell remained a widower four years, and settled the farm he now occupies in 1878. December 16, 1880, he was again married to Miss Alice Owen. He is very strongly devoted to his church, taking great interest in religion and good morals, and hates trickery and dishonesty. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and of the Patrons of Husbandry, and in politics a Democrat. Though modest and retiring, he sometimes takes the stump in advocacy of any doctrine he may espouse, and in 1880 canvassed his county for the nominee of his party for representative, but was defeated.
BLAKEMORE, George H.
Clinton Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 498
George H. Blakemore, dealer in hardware and agricultural implements, a native of Augusta County, Virginia, was born July 22 1832. His father, William C. Blakemore, was also born in that county, as was his mother, Mary A. (Newman) Blakemore. They were reared and married there, the former dying in 1859, and the latter in 1848. George was brought up as a farmer; boy, and was educated in the schools of that period. When twenty-one years of age he emigrated to Pettis County, Missouri, and engaged in the tinner's trade, which he thoroughly learned, till the fall of 1859, when he came to Clinton, Missouri. Here he embarked in business, handling stoves and tinware, under the firm name of Blakemore & Co. In 1862, on account of the war, he went to Adams County, Illinois, and gave his attention to farming, going thence in a year to Idaho City, Idaho Territory. For a short time he was engaged there in mining, and later followed that business through Washington, Montana and Oregon Territories for twenty-eight months. In July, 1866, he returned to Clinton, and worked at his trade with Houx & Bigsby, for eight months, they closing out to Kimbrough & Bro. After that time he remained with this firm as a jour workman till 1871, then becoming a partner in the concern, which was known as Kimbrough & Co. They were in business together until September, 1878, when Mr. K. sold his interest to Mr. Blakemore, who has since continued the business. He was united in marriage January 15, 1861, to Miss Mary F. Ragland, a native of Missouri. They have three children: Nathaniel J., George O. and Jene A. Mr. B. is a member of the M. E. Church South.
BLATT, S.
Clinton Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 498
S. Blatt, proprietor of livery, feed and sale stable. The subject of this sketch was born in Henry County, Ohio, October 13, 1846. When he was nine years of age his father's family removed to Woods County, Ohio. Left an orphan in his fourteenth year, he was compelled to obtain a living for himself, which he did. Remaining in Woods County till 1867, he then went to Dubuque, Iowa, where he had relatives living, with whose assistance he was enabled to take a course of study at Bailey's Commercial College of that city, which he attended nine months. Previous to this time, however, while in Ohio he attended in 1866 the Spencer Commercial College at Cleveland. He was subsequently for a time engaged in school teaching, and in the fall of 1868 he returned to Ohio and resided there till the fall of 1869, when he located in Missouri and embarked in stock dealing. In the spring of 1870 he came to Clinton, Missouri, and established himself in the hotel business, in what was then the St. Stephens House, continuing therein till the fall of 1872. Then he was elected constable of what then included eight townships, the office at that time being a very profitable one. This position he filled having been re-elected several times, till resigning it in 1877. In July, 1875, he commenced the livery business on the south side of the square, where he remained till December, 1877. Then Mr. Hormeyer became a partner with him, and they conducted the establishment till March, 1878, when they bought the stock of the other stable then here, managing them both till the fall of 1881, at which time they disposed of their livery business. Mr. B. then built his large sale stable on Main Street, where he now buys and sells exclusively. He makes a specialty of mule buying and feeding for the market. Since December, 1882, he has been a partner with Mr. Duncan in the livery trade below the Jordan House, where they have a well equipped stable. In 1879 he was elected mayor of this city and was its first mayor under the new city charter. He discharged the duties of that office for two years. Mr. Blatt was married October 1, 1868, to Miss Frances J. Shaw, a native of Delaware County, Iowa. They have two children, Rufus E. and Henry S. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. fraternity and of the encampment of that order, and has held all the offices within the gift of the lodge.
BLECHER, Emanuel
White Oak Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 714
Emanuel Blecher, farmer and stock raiser, was born September 22, 1827, in Columbia County, Pennsylvania. His father, Jacob Blecher, a farmer and weaver by occupation, was born in Pennsylvania in 1798, and died at the age of seventy-seven years in Columbia County, that state, in 1875. He married Miss Susanna Keller, of Columbia County, and they had seven children, three of whom are living, the subject of this sketch being the sixth. Emanuel spent his boyhood and youthful days at his birthplace, receiving but three months schooling. He was married October 25, 1855, to Miss Mary Ann Farwer, of Wayne County, Ohio. By this union they have had nine children, five sons and four daughters, all living, except one daughter. In 1855 Mr. Blecher removed from his native state to Wayne County, Ohio, where he remained for three years, going thence to Wells County, Indiana, where for eight years he followed farming and stock raising. Moving to Champaign County, Illinois, he continued to farm for fourteen years, and in March of 1881 he came to Henry County, Missouri, with a view to settling in the state as a permanent resident. He has as yet purchased no farm, but intends to invest his means in farming and stock raising as soon as a suitable location can be found. Politically, he is a Democrat.
BLEDSOE, Wilson H.
Clinton Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 499
Wilson H. Bledsoe, of the firm of Bledsoe & Lane, grocers, came originally from Taylor County, Kentucky, where he was born February 15, 1844. He was reared in the counties of Washington and Marion, and in August, 1861, at the age of seventeen, he enlisted in Company A, Second Kentucky Cavalry, United States Army, and served till December 17, 1864, having participated in the battles of Stone River, Perryvale, Kentucky, Shiloh and Chickamauga. He was captured at the time of McCook and Stoneman's raid through Georgia, and was a prisoner at Andersonville for three months, and then while on the way to Charleston, made his escape when near the mouth of the Edisto River, and was taken aboard a man-of war in that vicinity. Finally he made his way to New York, and in a short time returned to his command; receiving his discharge at Nashville, Tennessee. He then went to Green County, Kentucky, where he remained one year, and from there to Jeffersonville, Indiana, where he remained till February, 1868. Coming to Clinton he was engaged in blacksmithing till May 1881, after which he embarked in the grocery business with his present partner. Mr. Bledsoe was married October 30, 1870, to Miss Emma Burton, a native of Missouri. They have three children: Inez, Iva, and an infant. Mr. B. is a member of the Masonic order and of the I. O. O. F. and has been a representative of the latter order to the grand lodge of the state. For one term he belonged to the city council.
BLEIL, Carl N.
Shawnee Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 781
C. N. Bleil, a prominent citizen of Shawnee township and one of the progressive farmers and stockmen of this county, is a native of Henry County and a descendant of one of the honored pioneer families of this section. Mr. Bleil was born February 1, 1872, a son of Frederick W. and Charity A. (Drake) Bleil, natives of Ohio, who settled in Henry County in 1866. When Frederick Bleil settled in Shawnee township, he bought two hundred sixty acres of land and C. N., the subject of this sketch, still owns a part of the old place. Frederick Bleil was a successful farmer and stockman and a good citizen. He died March 19, 1896, and his wife departed this life May 1,1910, and their remains rest side by side in the Shawnee Mound Cemetery. To Frederick W. and Charity A. (Drake) Bleil were born the following children: Edgar, resides in Kansas City, Missouri; Dr. A. W., Kansas City, Missouri; Nettie C., Clinton, Missouri; John L., died at the age of one year; C. N., the subject of this sketch, and G. D., who lives on the old home place in Shawnee township. C. N. Bleil was reared in Shawnee township and educated in the district schools. He engaged in farming in early life and has successfully devoted himself to agricultural pursuits to the present time. He owns one of the valuable farms of Shawnee township, which consists of two hundred forty acres, eighty acres of which is a part of the old Bleil homestead. Mr. Bleil raises Duroc Jersey hogs and keeps quite a herd of Jersey cows. He is also interested in raising sheep and has a valuable flock of pure bred Shropshires. Mr. Bleil's place is well equipped for the stock business with large silo and other conveniences. December 9, 1894, C. N. Bleil was united in marriage with Miss Lillie Tillman, a daughter of A. M. Tillman of Clinton, Missouri. Mrs. Bleil's mother died a number of years ago and her father now resides in Clinton. Mrs. Bleil was one of a family of four children born to her parents as follow: James L., who resides in Colorado; Mrs. Bleil; Lloyd, Clinton, Missouri, and Mrs. Bessie Wade, who resides at Leeton, Missouri. To Mr. and Mrs. Bleil have been born the following children: Mrs. Edith Bozarth, now deceased; Howard, George, Louis, Arthur, Clarence, Paul, Mabel and Mildred, all of whom reside at home with their parents, except Edith and Arthur, who are deceased. Mr. Bleil is one of the directors of the Farmers Mutual Insurance Company of Henry County, which is one of the prosperous and well conducted insurance companies of the State. Mr. Bleil is a member of the time honored Masonic Lodge and is one of Henry County's most highly valued citizens. He is active in all patriotic work and has given his best endeavor to the furtherance of Red Cross and Liberty Loan work.
BLEVINS, Jeremiah
Davis Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 730
Jeremiah Blevins was born in Johnson County, Missouri, October 24, 1837. A sketch of the life of his parents will be found in the biography of his brother, "Pres" Blevins. Jeremiah's early days were spent in hard work upon his father's farm, and in his twentieth year he was married, on September 28, 1857, to Miss Mary E. Dunn. His father giving him a small piece of land, and managing to enter another small tract, he engaged in farming, and in 1861 had acquired over 400 acres of land. When the call for arms was raised he enlisted at Lone Jack, at which place commenced his war record. Being in Colonel Cockrell's command he continued with him until the battle at Prairie Grove, Arkansas, where he and his brother Stephen were captured. He was confined at St. Louis, Alton and Chicago, and after being kept a prisoner for six months was exchanged at Petersburg, Virginia. He joined the forces again at Richmond and remained there for forty days, when he went south and rejoined his original commander at Meriden, Mississippi. He surrendered at Jackson, Mississippi, in 1865. He received but one serious wound, that being caused by a shell fracturing his left knee. When the war closed Mr. Blevins returned to Missouri and resumed his farming operations, after an interruption of five years. His wife had lived but a few years after their marriage, and on his return in the fall of 1865 he married Miss Emily H. Feris, daughter of Charles Feris, of Bates County. His first wife had left him one son, George W., who has married Miss Martha DeArman. By his present wife he has five children: Virginia Ann, Stephen E., Dullie, Lizzie and Robert E. Lee. Mr. Blevins has been quite successful in his business undertakings, and now owns over 800 acres of good land, and has also a good farm in Texas. He feeds a moderate number of cattle each year, having about 125 head of stock at present.
BLEVINS, Jonathan
White Oak Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 544
Photos: Jonathan & Clara Blevins
Jonathan Blevins, a progressive farmer and stockman of White Oak township, is a Henry County pioneer. He was born in Honey Creek township, which was then known as Davis township, October 13, 1855, and is a son of Robert P. and Nancy (Crockett) Blevins. R. P. Blevins was born in what is now White Oak township, near the Clary place, December 23, 1833, and was the first white child born in what is now Henry County. He spent his life in this county and died near Marvin in Honey Creek township, March 6, 1889. He was a son of Ezekiel Blevins, a Kentuckian and one of the first settlers of Henry County. He died in Johnson County during the Civil War, about 1864. Nancy (Crockett) Blevins, mother of Jonathan Blevins, was a native of Indiana and came here with her parents when she was a child in arms. She died March 6, 1898. To R. P. and Nancy (Crockett) Blevins were born the following children: Jonathan, the subject of this sketch; Mary Theresa, now the wife of Judge W. B. Collins, one of the county judges of Henry County, a sketch of whom appears in this volume; Sarah J. married John B. Cornett, Big Creek township; Nancy Ann, married Robert DeArmond, Southwest City, Missouri; Julia Bell, married C. A. Davis, Independence, Missouri; Nora L. married Richard Hall, Clinton, Missouri; Irene married James T. Collins and is now deceased; Lottie married John Shaver, Sydney, Montana. Jonathan Blevins was reared and educated in Davis township, and remained at home with his parents until he was about twenty-five years of age. Farming and stock raising has been his chief occupation and he purchased his present place in 1898. He owns one hundred and sixty acres of land and carries on general farming and stock raising, and has met with uniform success in his undertakings. On January 15, 1880, Mr. Blevins was united in marriage with Miss Clara Belle Toalson, a daughter of George W. and Margaret E. (Cowden) Toalson, both now deceased. They were early settlers in White Oak township, locating there in 1867. Their children were: George, deceased; Clara Belle, wife of Jonathan Blevins, the subject of this sketch; Mattie, married Nichols Long, Hartwell, Missouri; Oscar B., Bartlesville, Oklahoma; and Omar A., Urich, Missouri. To Mr. and Mrs. Blevins has been born one daughter, Isa Merle. She married Parl Ewing, and is now deceased. She left one son, Fern W. Ewing, who now resides with his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Blevins. The Blevins family experienced the real pioneer life of Henry County. When R. P. Blevins was a baby his mother left him in the cabin while she was at work in the garden. The cabin was only partially roofed. As the mother was at work she discovered a panther endeavoring to climb to the roof of the cabin by reaching through between the logs of the cabin, which had not yet been chinked, and reach the baby, who was lying on a pallet on the floor. She hastened to the cabin and as she reached the inside of the cabin the panther was still endeavoring to reach the baby with its claws. The mother struck one of the extending claws of the animal with a hoe that she still held in her hands and with a single blow severed the claws of the panther. Later the panther was tracked from the house and killed, by Ezekiel Blevins and the neighbors. Jonathan Blevins is truly a representative of a sturdy pioneer family of Henry County and is typical of that class of men who have made Henry County what it is today.
BLEVINS, Robert Preston
Davis Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 729
R. P. Blevins is probably the oldest person now living who was born in the present limits of Henry County. He was born October 20, 1831, in what is now Shawnee Township, on the Pleasant Walker farm. One child only was born in the county prior to his birth and that was the son of a colored woman in the family of Lang Avery, and that child is supposed to have died in infancy. "Pres.," as he is familiarly called, is the eldest of a family of five children, of whom all are living but Stephen, who died of small-pox at Bloody Island, St. Louis, in 1863. He had entered Price's command and was captured at Prairie Grove. His father, Ezekial Blevins, came from Kentucky to Missouri when a young man, and in Johnson County met Miss Theresa Young, to whom he was soon after married. They settled in Henry County in 1830, and after living three years in Shawnee he went to White Oak, where he secured a small farm and afterward entered 600 or 700 acres of land upon which he lived until his wife's death in 1861. Going to Johnson County he died there in the fall of 1865 at the age of fifty-three. When twenty-three years old R. P. borrowed $100 and entered eighty acres of land in section 23, and began to make a farm. January 14, 1854, he was married in Bates County to Miss Missouri Crockett, daughter of James Crockett, an early settler of that county. She was born in Indiana, May 16, 1831. Mr. B. soon built a little log cabin and began a life of hard work. His first dealing in stock was by trading a rifle for fourteen head of hogs. He raised hogs for quite a while, until able to sell at one time, and then buying a few heifers, he laid the foundation for a stock business unsurpassed by any man in Henry County. He now owns over 2,700 acres of land in the best part of the county, and during the past year raised 2,000 acres of corn, and fed 350 head of beef cattle, about an average number for him to feed. He has on hand also 450 stock cattle. He has 900 head of feeding hogs and nearly 1,000 pigs, together with a flock of 400 Cotswold sheep. He raises 400 acres of meadow, and has excellent success in cultivating the tame grasses. He was formerly one of the most extensive shippers from this section of the state, but for three years has not done much in this line. Mr. Blevins is Democratic in politics and takes quite an active interest in educational matters. He has acquired his splendid competency by adhering to strict business principles, and good judgment in his labors. Certainly no man in the county dispenses hospitality with a more liberal hand or is more sincerely liked by those with whom he has dealings than "Pres." Blevins. He has a family of seven children The eldest, John, has a farm of 640 acres, and is a thorough business man; his wife, was a Miss Belle Tolston. Mary is the wife of Benjamin Collins, Sarah Jane is the wife of John B. Cornett. Nancy Ann married Robert DeArman and lives in Bogard, Fred, Julia and Lottie Pearl are at home. Walter Reno, a lad of fourteen, has been in Mr. Blevins' family for four years.
BLIZZARD, William
Deepwater Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co.pg 606
William Blizzard, farmer and stock raiser, section 16, owes his nativity to Ross County, Ohio, where he was born August 22, 1809. Burton Blizzard, his father, was a native of Virginia, and his mother, formerly Millie Willoughby, was born in Maryland, her parents having come originally from Wales. The former settled in Ross County, Ohio, when a young man, and was one of the pioneers. William grew to manhood in his native county, his youth being spent on the farm, and he acquired a fair education, mostly by self application. He was married in Preble County, Ohio, in September, 1844, to Miss Eliza Smith, a Virginian by birth, who was reared and educated in Preble County, and a daughter of Joseph Smith. Mr. Blizzard was engaged in farming and stock raising in Ohio until 1866, when, selling his property in the fall of the same year, he came to Missouri and settled in Henry County on land he had purchased in 1856. This place formerly consisted of 600 acres, but now contains 480, he having given his son 120 acres. Four hundred and forty acres are under fence and fairly improved, upon it there being a good brick residence, and an orchard of 200 apple trees of select varieties. Coal is found in abundance, the vein running from twelve to thirty inches in thickness. This place is two miles west of Montrose, and is a very desirable property. Mr. Blizzard lost his wife by death in February, 1875. He was elected to several minor offices in Ohio, and is now identified with the Democratic party.
----------
|
|
