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GRACEY, Edward Austin Sr.
Clinton Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 356
Edward A. Gracey is a native of White County, Tennessee, and he was born May 22, 1860. He received a liberal education and commenced the study of law in the office of D. L. Snodgrass, at Sparta, Tennessee, at the age of eighteen years, and in 1878 and 1879 attended the law school at Lebanon, Tennessee, and was admitted to the White County bar in October, 1880. In February, 1881 he came to Clinton, Missouri, and entered the law office of Hon. B. G. Boone and again admitted to the bar in August of that year. May 22, 1882, he was appointed a justice of the peace and the following November he was elected to this office. From his natural talents and studious habits, a bright and promising future is sure to be realized. He was married September 6, 1882, to Miss Ollie Blakemore, a native of Henry County, Missouri.
GRACEY, Edward Austin Sr.
Clinton, Clinton Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 331
Edward Austin Gracey of Clinton, Missouri, is a leading member of the bar of Henry County, and has practiced his profession here for thirty-six years. Judge Gracey was born at Sparta, Tennessee, May 22, 1861. His parents were Wayman L. and Martha (Hudgins) Gracey, both natives of White County, Tennessee. The Graceys are of Irish descent, the great-grandfather of Judge Gracey coming from Bambridge, Ireland, to America. On the maternal side, Judge Gracey's ancestors came from Scotland. Wayman L. and Martha (Hudgins) Gracey spent their lives in Tennessee. The mother died in 1885 and the father departed this life in 1887, and their remains rest in the cemetery at Sparta, Tennessee. They were the parents of fifteen children, ten of whom are living, as follows: Edward Austin, the subject of this sketch; Alice, Sparta, Tennessee; Josie, the widow of W. C. Rogers, Sparta, Tennessee; Mary, wife of James Meyer, Sparta, Tennessee; Charles, Louisville, Kentucky; Crockett. Chillicothe, Texas; Augusta, unmarried and resides in Clinton, Missouri, and Mack and Wayman, twins, reside at Sparta, Tennessee; and Ethel, unmarried, Sparta, Tennessee. Judge Gracey was reared in Sparta, and received his early education in private schools, and after preparing for college entered Cumberland University at Lebanon, Tennessee, where he was graduated in the class of 1880. He then read law in the office of Judge D. L. Snodgrass for a time at Sparta and in 1881 came to Clinton, Missouri, where be continued the study of law under the preceptorship of Gen. B. G. Boone, and in 1882 he was admitted to the bar of Missouri. He has been successfully engaged in the practice of law at Clinton since that time and is well known throughout this section of the state as an able and conscientious lawyer. September 6, 1882, Edward Austin Gracey was united in marriage with Miss Olive Blakemore, a native of Henry County, and two children were born to this union: Francis and George Wayman, both residing in Clinton. George Wayman is employed as teller in the Brinkerhoff-Faris Trust & Savings Company. Judge Gracey's first wife died February 10, 1899. On January 29, 1916, he was united in marriage with Caroline Coats of Kansas City, Missouri. Judge Gracey is a Democrat and has taken an active part in politics for a number of years. He has served two terms as prosecuting attorney of Henry County, from 1887 to 1891. For the past nine years he has served as a justice of the peace. He is a member of the Baptist Church and is one of the widely and favorably known citizens of Henry County.
GRAGG, Robert Malcom Rev.
Walker Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 721
Rev. Robert M. Gragg was born in Howard County, Missouri, July 18, 1826, the seventh in a family of ten children. His father. Malcom Gragg was a native of Tennessee, as was also his mother, whose maiden name was Rebecca Broadhust. They were married in Tennessee. In or about 1833 they came to Missouri and located in Pettis County, where they lived some three years, moving in 1836 to Rives (now Henry) County, and settling on Deepwater, on what is now known as the "Stone Farm." He entered that tract of land and lived there some time, when, in company with his brother, Robert Gragg, he entered all of the timber land on what is known as Camp Branch. They both built houses on the creek and remained there until their deaths. Rebecca Gragg died in 1857, and Malcom Gragg in the year 1862. Robert M. is therefore among the earliest settlers of Henry County. At the time his father settled there, only three families lived on the south side of Grand River for miles in either direction. He received comparatively little education, having attended school but four months, and his teacher was Miss Catherine Robards, the present wife of Dr. Toucey, of Bates County. Just after this term of school, young Robert was accidentally shot by a schoolmate, and for many months his life hung in the scales that seemed about evenly balanced. but his youthful vigor carried him safely through the danger. On the 22d of February, in his twentieth year, he was married to Miss Catharine Cook, of Johnson County, and for several years he farmed in connection with his father. In 1855, he moved on his present farm, receiving eighty acres from his father. He entered two hundred acres more soon after, and until 1876, handled stock quite extensively. When about sixteen years old, Mr. Gragg united with the church, and until 1850, he was attached to the United Brethren, when he joined the Methodist Protestant Church. In 1846 he was licensed to preach in the United Brethren Church, and continued as a local preacher until 1855, when he was ordained a regular minister of the gospel in the Methodist Protestant, and for over thirty years he has told the story of the Cross. His whole time was devoted to the cause of the church until 1863. He was placed upon the Warrensburg circuit several times, and much of his time was devoted to evangelical work. He was the only preacher in this section of the state who filled regular appointments during the war. Mr. Gragg has had a family of twelve children, of whom two died in infancy, and two promising young men, Jasper Marion and Christopher C. died in the summer of 1876, within five days of each other. Those living are: Rebecca M., John W., Elizabeth J., Burton H., Sarah A., and Mary B. Of his brothers who are now living: William R., and Henry H. Three sisters are still living: Susan Short, Mary Ann Poage and Ellender Crabtree.
GRAHAM, Charles L.
Urich, Bogard Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 654
Charles L. Graham, well known real estate dealer of Urich, and a member of the firm of Smith & Graham, furniture dealers and undertaking, is a native of Henry County and a member of one of the well-known pioneer families of this section of Missouri. Mr. Graham was born in Bogard township, Henry County, February 17, 1872, and is a son of James L. and Irene (Brooks) Graham, both natives of Missouri. The father was one of the pioneer settlers of Henry County, locating in Bogard township at a very early day. He was prominent in local affairs and during his time was considered one of the successful farmers and stockmen of this county. To James L. and Irene (Brooks) Graham were born the following children: Mrs. Mary Lawrence, resides on the home place; B. S., Urich, Missouri; Charles L., the subject of this sketch; Amanda, now wife of H. B. Smith, Urich, Missouri. Charles L. Graham was reared in Henry County and spent his early life on the farm. He received his early education in the public schools and for a number of years followed farming and stock raising, later he engaged in clerking in a store in Urich. He then entered the real estate, loan and insurance business and for a number of years has been successfully identified in that line of industry. In 1912 he entered the furniture and undertaking business in partnership with H. P. Smith and since that time he has successfully been engaged in that line of endeavor, in addition to his real estate, loan and insurance operations. Mr. Graham was united in marriage July 20, 1903, with Miss Nannie Sadler, a daughter of John and Elizabeth (Terrill) Sadler, natives of Appleton City, Missouri. Her father now resides at Urich, Missouri, and the mother is dead, having passed away in 1904, and her remains are interred in the cemetery at Appleton City, Missouri. To Mr. and Mrs. Graham have been born the following children: Leonard, Rolla, Scott and Henry E. Mr. Graham is one of the enterprising and progressive citizens of Urich, a man who does things and his citizenship is worth while to Henry County. He always stands ready to cooperate with and support any commendable enterprise, having for its object the development or betterment of his town or county.
GRANT, Legrant Elmer Sr.
Deepwater, Fairview Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 451
L. E. Grant, retired merchant and live stock dealer of Deepwater, Missouri, was born in Knox County, Missouri, July 25, 1855. He is the son of Samuel Russell, born in 1818 and died in 1871, and Elizabeth (Sharp) Grant. His father was a native of Zanesville, Ohio, and was a son of Samuel F. Grant, a native of Ohio. Mrs. Elizabeth Grant was born in Kentucky June 27, 1818, and died in September, 1910, and her parents were early settlers of Knox County, Missouri, where Samuel Russell Grant removed in 1831. They were married in that county, settled permanently upon a farm and spent the remainder of their lives in agricultural pursuits. Samuel R. and Elizabeth Grant reared a family of six children: Samuel R., deceased; G. W. Grant, Tulsa, Oklahoma; Abram S., Seattle, Washington; Mrs. Sarah Maria Hicks, Pleasanton, Kansas; Mrs. Margaret Malvila Bryant, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; L. E. Grant, subject of this review. Born, reared and educated in Knox County, Missouri, L. E. Grant resided there until 1885, when opportunity beckoned to him and he came to Deepwater, Missouri, and engaged in business pursuits in which he achieved more than ordinary success. For a period of twenty-one years he was engaged in the grocery and hardware business in that city and became well and favorably known throughout Henry County as a reliable and able business man. From his boyhood days he had always been interested in live stock and is an excellent judge of farm animals. Along with his other business, he has been engaged in the buying and shipping of live stock and probably holds the record as a live stock shipper in Henry County in the number of live stock he has bought and shipped from this section. Mr. Grant's shipments from Deepwater would aggregate from 100 to 150 carloads of stock yearly and his dealings with the live stock raisers were so fair and honest that he was kept busily employed in taking care of the business. He retired from active business pursuits in 1917, but is looking after his farm of 290 acres, situated within two and a half miles of Deepwater, and he is also owner of another farm located five miles south of Deepwater in St. Clair County. February 9, 1881, L. E. Grant was united in marriage with Miss Martha Gorman (born June 17, 1852, died January 7, 1915), a native of Darksville, Berkeley County, Virginia, a daughter of Edwin and Matilda (Vyse) Gorman, the former of whom was a native of Ireland and the latter of Virginia. Edwin Gorman came to America with his parents when a child. The Gormans moved to Edina, Knox County, Missouri, from Virginia in 1857. Mrs. Grant was a true and faithful wife to her husband, devoted to her family, a kind mother to her children and a worthy helpmate in every sense the. word implies. She was an inspiration to her husband during the many years of their married life. She became a member of the Methodist Church, South, when but a child, and was a devout Christian woman whose activities and interests outside of her home were mainly in religious works. Three children were born to L. E. and Martha Grant, as follow: Russell Lee and Mary Leta, twins, and L. Elmer, Jr. Russell Lee Grant is a successful real estate operator at Tulsa, Oklahoma. Miss Mary Leta Grant is her father's housekeeper in Deepwater. L. Elmer, Jr. is engaged in the real estate business with his brother at Tulsa, Oklahoma. Mr. Grant has always been a worker in the ranks of the Democratic party in Henry County and has served as treasurer of his home city. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, and is affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of Deepwater and the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks of Clinton. He is a well preserved, genial, hospitable citizen who is well liked and highly esteemed by his many friends and acquaintances throughout Henry County.
GRANT, William H.
Fields Creek Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 679
W. H. Grant, farmer, section 24, is the owner of a farm consisting of 90 acres of improved land, underlaid by a strata of good coal forty inches thick. He is a native of Lafayette County, Missouri, born August 4, 1840. His parents were Vincent O. and Sarah A. (Burks) Grant, the former of Genessee County, New York, was born July 24, 1812, and was a son of John and Mary (Osgood) Grant, natives of New York. Vincent O. was reared in his native state, and later went to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with his parents, and while there served as sheriff for two years. He was a carpenter by trade, and in 1836 moved to St. Louis, Missouri, and in 1837 to Glasgow. There he was married October 9, 1839, his wife having been born in Jackson County, Alabama, October 31, 1818. She was a daughter of William and Sallie (Frost) Burks, of that state, and with the family settled in Boone County, Missouri in 1827. They came to Henry County in 1842, where they died. The subject of this sketch located in Clinton Township, Henry County, Missouri, in 1841, moving to where he now resides in 1871. His father died March 17, 1880, leaving three children, W. H., Thankful Ann and Thomas A. His mother still survives. W. H. Grant was married November 8, 1860, to Miss Emily A. Childers, a native of Logan County, Kentucky, born August 17, 1838. She was a daughter of George W. and Cassandra (Yeates) Childers, who were born and reared in Adair County. The father was born in 1814, and died September 18, 1882, while the mother, who was born in 1813, died in 1854. They settled in Henry County, Missouri, in 1841. Mr. and Mrs. G. have a family of four children living: Charles H., Anna A., Mary F. and Sarah A. They have lost three, Thomas B., William and an infant. Mr. Grant served in the late war as a member of the Eighth Regiment Missouri Volunteer Infantry. He is a Mason in good standing, belonging to Tebo Lodge at Clinton.
GRAY, Cecil E.
Big Creek Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 722
Cecil E. Gray, a progressive young farmer and stockman of Big Creek township, is a native son of Henry County. His father, Francis M. Gray, a sketch of whom appears in this volume, was also born in Henry County, and the Grays are one of the pioneer families of this section. Cecil F. Gray was born in Big Creek township February 21, 1894. He was educated in the public schools and graduated from the Norris High School. He later attended the University of Missouri, where he was graduated in 1916. He then engaged in farming and stock raising in partnership with his father in Big Creek township, where they own and operate one of the large farms of the county. It consists of 1,280 acres and they are extensively engaged in breeding registered Hereford cattle and Duroc Jersey hogs and also general farming. The Gray place is known as the "Inland Farm" and as an up to date and modernly conducted stock farm, it has few equals and no superiors in this section of the State. Mr. Gray was united in marriage January 22, 1917, with Miss Mary J. Stansberry, a daughter of W. A. and Sarah F. (Webster) Stansberry. A sketch of W. A. Stansberry appears in this volume. Mr. Gray is a member of the Masonic Lodge and is one of Henry County's representative young agriculturists.
GRAY, Francis M.
Big Creek Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 714
Francis M. Gray, a native of Henry County, born in Big Creek township July 28, 1865, is one of the progressive farmers and stock men of Big Creek township. His parents were John L. and Catharine E. (Ross) Gray. The father was born in east Tennessee October 4, 1812, and died October 7, 1866. The mother was born in Kentucky January 21, 1828, and died August 14, 1909. They were married February 17, 1848, and the following children were born to this union: Francis M., the subject of this sketch; Mary J., born November 29, 1848, died June 14, 1867; Clayton C., born February 10, 1850, died February 12, 1850; Margaret E., born January 23, 1851, died January 25, 1851; Sarah C., born May 6, 1852, died May 18, 1852; Webster W., born July 9, 1853, died March 27, 1913; Anna E., born September 15, 1855, died August 30, 1857; Washington G., born June 14, 1857, died June 16, 1867; William H., born June 26, 1858, died July 4, 1858; John C., born July 21, 1859, died May 1, 1869; Alice L., born January 24, 1862, died May 21, 1883; Joseph, born February 6, 1867, died April 18, 1867. John L. Gray came to Henry County about 1840 and settled in Big Creek township, where he entered land and also bought a number of acres. His entire holdings aggregated about 2,600 acres. He built a residence on section 22 and here was engaged in farming and stock raising during the remainder of his life. Prior to the Civil War he owned a number of slaves. When he first settled here Lexington was his nearest important trading point and he made frequent trips to that place. He hauled a part of the lumber for his first home from Otterville, a distance of fifty miles. Francis M. Gray spent his boyhood days on the home farm in Big Creek township and was educated in the rural schools of the neighborhood and later attended Central College at Fayette, Missouri, and also took a course at the Gem City Business College, Quincy, Illinois. He then returned to the home farm, where he remained until 1894, when he moved to his present place, which is located about a mile southeast of Norris. Here he owns 1,280 acres, which is one of Henry County's most valuable farms. It is one of the best improved and best places to be found in Henry County. The residence, which is an unusually attractive home, is located on the Clinton and Holden highway. There are two sets of buildings on the Gray farm, one of which is occupied by Mr. Gray's son. Mr. Gray and his son are not only extensively interested in general farming and grain raising, but have established a reputation as being among the leading stock breeders of the county, and on their place may be found some of the highest type of cattle and hogs. They are breeders of white face cattle and Duroc Jersey hogs and their registered stock have a high reputation among stockmen throughout this section of the State. Francis M. Gray was united in marriage May 29, 1889, with Miss Mary A. Butcher, a daughter of Alexander M. Butcher, a pioneer settler of Big Creek township and a personal sketch of whom appears in this volume. To Mr. and Mrs. Gray have been born two children: Cecil E., born February 21, 1894, educated in the Norris High School, Missouri University, married Mary J. Stansberry, a daughter of W. A. and Sarah E. Stansberry of Big Creek township, and is now in partnership with his father in operating the home place. Harry P., the youngest son, was born March 27, 1897. He was educated in the Norris High School, Central College at Fayette, Missouri, and received the degree of Bachelor of Arts in the University of Missouri in June, 1918. He enlisted in the United States Navy July 1, 1918, and is in training at the Great Lakes Naval Training Station. Mr. Gray has always taken an interest in public affairs and has been especially a strong supporter of public schools and to him and W. S. Ward, T. M. Swindell and W. S. Swart belong the credit of promoting the local high school, which later developed into the Consolidated High School District No.1 of Henry County, which was the first consolidated high school district in the state of Missouri. Mr. Gray is a Henry County citizen of real worth and his push and public spiritedness has not only rewarded himself but is of inestimable value to his community and county. The co-operation of such men as Francis M. Gray makes it possible to build democratic empires.
GRAY, James Wallace "Polk" Dr.
Tebo Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 641
Dr. J. W. Gray, physician and surgeon at Calhoun, was born in Tebo Township, Henry County, Missouri, January 9, 1845. His father is W. A. Gray, a Baptist minister and a native of Kentucky, and his mother's maiden name was Mary Lofftus, also a Kentuckian by birth. J. W. was the fourth child in a family of twelve children. He was reared as a farmer, obtaining an education in the common schools and when seventeen years old he accepted a situation as clerk in a store at Windsor, which position he held till 1865. Going to St. Louis he studied dentistry for one year and afterwards returned to Windsor where he practiced dentistry and prosecuted the study of medicine. In 1870 he attended medical lectures at St. Louis one term then came again to Windsor and practiced both dentistry and medicine till 1876. In the same year he was graduated from the Keokuk Medical College, of Keokuk, Iowa, since which time he has followed his profession at Calhoun. He is a member of the Baptist Church and also belongs to the Masonic fraternity. May 1, 1876, Dr. Gray was married to Miss Ada Munn, of Illinois.
GRAY, Joseph William
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 565
Photos: Guy P. Gray
Joseph W. Gray - The Gray family in Henry County is one of the oldest and most distinguished in this section of the State, and was founded here in 1836 when the grandparents of Joseph W. Gray came to Henry County and entered the land where the old Gray homestead is now located and which the subject of this sketch is now cultivating. This old family has also contributed a descendant to the service of the Nation in the great World War, a son of Joseph W. Gray having been the first private soldier from Henry County to die at Camp Doniphan. Joseph W. Gray was born at Windsor, Missouri, October 15, 1871, the son of Dr. J. W. and Clara E. (Head) Gray, who were parents of six children, as follow: Effie E. Cecil, Springfield township; Dr. Alfred A., a practicing physician, Calhoun, Missouri; Joseph W., of this review; Charles V., Hollister, Missouri; Harry P., a veterinarian at Chilhowee, Missouri; Mrs. Clara Bennett, Long Beach, California. Dr. J. W. Gray was born in Henry County February 20, 1840, the son of Rev. W. A. and Mary (Loftis) Gray, both of whom were born in Kentucky. Rev. W. A. Gray first came to Missouri in 1835 and taught school. In 1836 Rev. W. A. Gray removed with his family to Henry County and entered land in sections 14, 15, 22 and 23, Springfield township. He followed farming during the remainder of his life while preaching as a minister of the Baptist Church. Nine children were born to Rev. W. A. and Mary Gray, of whom Dr. J. W. Gray was the eldest. Doctor Gray was educated in the St. Louis College of Medicine and began the practice of his profession in 1863 near Lincoln, Benton County, Missouri. He located in Windsor in 1865 and practiced in this city for a period of twelve years. He then, in 1876, came to the Gray homestead and practiced his profession while looking after his farming interests, retiring from active practice in 1913. He made his home on the old homestead until his death on June 17, 1918. Mrs. Clara Gray was born March 22, 1845, in Benton County, Missouri, the daughter of Dr. Alfred and Rhoda (Vincent) Head, natives of Virginia. Doctor Head was practicing his profession in Benton County during the Civil War. Joseph W. Gray received his education in the district school and the Clinton Academy, taught by Professor Lamkin. He began for himself in 1891 and was engaged in farming until 1901. He then went to Montana and spent a year there, after which he purchased a general store at Roseland, Missouri. He conducted this store until 1906 and then sold out. He clerked in the Red Front Dry Goods Store at Clinton until 1907 and was then engaged as traveling salesman with the George W. Perry Rubber Company until 1909. Since 1909 he has been engaged in tilling the home farm of 240 acres. Mr. Gray was married October 26, 1893, to Miss Ruth A. Phelps, who was born August 1, 1875, in Henry County, Missouri, the daughter of David and Louise (Moore) Phelps, natives of near Belleville, Illinois. The Phelps family came to Johnson County in 1872 and came to Henry County, Missouri, in 1874, and Mr. and Mrs. Phelps now reside in Calhoun. Seven children have been born to Joseph W. and Ruth A. Gray, as follow: Guy P., born May 19, 1895, and departed this life at Camp Doniphan, Oklahoma, November 30, 1917, while an enlisted soldier in the service of the National Army, his life being the first to be given by Henry County in defense of the freedom of the world - he died a soldier; Ruth, born January 20, 1900, and died January 28, 1900; Joseph, born April 9, 1902; Eugene, born April 14, 1904; Mary L., born November 17, 1905; Wilma, born March 4, 1909, died May 16, 1918; Clara B., born August 29, 1910. Mr. Gray is a Democrat and has long been prominent in the affairs of his party in Henry County. In 1912 he was elected to the office of township tax collector and served for two years. In 1915 he was elected township assessor, an office which he is now capably filling. He is a stockholder of the Farmers Cooperative Company and is keenly interested in all worthy civic movements. Mr. Gray is a Mason, his father before him having been a charter member of the Windsor Masonic Lodge. lie is affiliated with the Modern Woodmen of America. He and Mrs. Gray are members of the Baptist Church.
GRAY, Webster W.
Big Creek Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 702
Webster W. Gray, farmer and breeder of Hereford cattle, is a native of Henry County, Missouri, and was born July 9, 1853. His father, John L. Gray, who was born in Tennessee, came to Missouri when a young man and was one of the pioneer settlers of this county, here entering a tract of nearly 3,000 acres of land and improving a farm in Big Creek Township. He was married here to Catherine E. Ross, of Kentucky, but also among the first settlers of the county. W. W. Gray passed his younger days on a farm and in attending the common schools. He received a good education at Central College, where he spent four years, nearly finishing the mathematical course. He was married February 7, 1877, to Miss Mattie E. Mclntire, also of Henry County, where she was reared and educated, and a daughter of D. C. and Agnes Mclntire. Mr. and Mrs. Gray have three children: Jessie Lee, Nellie Temple, and baby. They have lost one child, in infancy. After his marriage Mr. G. located on his farm, and has since been engaged in farming. He has 680 acres of good land, with 600 acres fenced and in cultivation, and two orchards of 250 trees, consisting of apple, peach, cherry and other fruits. He is extensively engaged in feeding cattle for the market, and has a patent burr for grinding feed for his stock, which is operated by wind power. This also operates a large corn sheller and a cutting box. He is now making a specialty of breeding for the market thoroughbred and half-blood Hereford cattle and has some fine animals. His herd is headed by Nobleman 6th, a fine male animal, two years old, with Lady Lorn, 2d. Mr. Gray is a member of the Masonic and Odd Fellows orders. His wife is connected with the M. E. Church South.
GRAY, William A. Rev.
Springfield Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 813
Rev. William A. Gray was born October 16, 1815, in Christian County, Kentucky. His father, Joseph Gray, was born in 1777 in Dinwiddie County, Virginia, and was a farmer by occupation. He emigrated near the year 1800 to Kentucky and settled in Christian County, where he remained until 1839. William's mother, formerly Matilda Scrieggs, was born in Buckingham County, Virginia, about 1782. They were married in 1800 in Christian County, Kentucky, and had five children. William A. Gray was the youngest of this family. he spent his early life in his native state, receiving a limited education, and in the fall of 1836 left home and went on a prospecting tour to the present Henry County, where he remained nearly two years. Returning to his native state, he passed one year there, making the final preparations for a future and permanent home in Missouri. He was married November 18, 1838, to Miss Mary Lofftus, of Christian County, Kentucky. By this union there were thirteen children, eleven sons and two daughters. In the year of 1839 he entered a tract of 160 acres of land, his parents also becoming residents of the county about the same time. Mr. Gray commenced school teaching in 1836, previous to his coming here, and followed the calling for about fifteen years. His first school in Missouri was taught in Tebo Township. In June of 1843 he became identified with the Baptist Church of Clear Creek, Benton County, and from a sense of duty soon turned his attention to the ministry, and, being encouraged by the church, proceeded to the work of preparation and began the study of theology, though under the most adverse circumstances, as he was compelled to go through the process of self-education in the then new country of his adoption. He was licensed in November, 1843, and was ordained in January, 1844, by Revs. J. T. Ricketts and W. P. Caldwell, and he commenced his life work immediately. His first text was: "Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom." The citizens of Henry, Benton, Pettis, Johnson, St. Clair, Bates and Vernon Counties have long known Pastor Gray, many of whom have sat under and listened with pleasure and satisfaction to his preaching. Mrs. Gray died August 1, 1860, leaving twelve children. Mr. Gray was married again November 19, 1860, to Mary A. Bibb, of Benton County. There were five children born to them. Though having devoted much of his time to the ministry, with but little pecuniary compensation, he has been greatly prosperous. His house was demolished April 7, 1842, by a cyclone, leaving no article of furniture nor vestige of household goods. A little child was snatched from its cradle only in time to save it from certain death, as the cradle was instantly filled with the debris of the falling house. Mr. Gray, in his attempt to reach the residence, was struck with a piece of flying timber, and fell crushed and bleeding, and his narrow escape is shown by the scar upon his head to this day. The neighbors restored his house, and he looks back with grateful remembrance to the kindness shown him and his family. He preached unmolested during the period of the war, and though men sought to intimidate, he fearlessly proclaimed the gospel to those who chose to listen. He has perhaps preached over 5,000 sermons, besides performing extra duties in the community, which have been frequent. His second wife died June 10, 1875. On November 20, 1877, he married Martha M. Fewell, of Benton County, but originally from North Carolina. He has, without doubt, baptized more than a thousand candidates, and could give us no idea of the number of marriage rites performed during his long ministry. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. Dr. J. W. Gray, son of Rev. Wm. A. Gray, was born February 20, 1840, in Springfield Township, Henry County, Missouri. During the years of 1856, '57 and '58, he attended the college at Calhoun, Henry County, conducted by the Tebo Baptist Association. On leaving the school, he commenced the study of medicine at Calhoun, Dr. Robert Hogan of that place being his preceptor. He continued his studies during the years of 1859 and '60, and was interrupted in 1861 by the opening of the war. He suspended study for several months, giving his attention to the management of the farm at home. In November, 1861, he resumed his studies with Dr. Alfred Head, of Benton County, and passed nearly two years under that preceptor. He attended medical lectures at St. Louis, Missouri. In the spring of 1864, he commenced the practice of his profession at Windsor, in Henry County. He was married in September, 1864, to Miss Clara Elizabeth Head, of Millersburg, Callaway County, and a daughter of Dr. Alfred Head. They have six children. Dr. Gray continued his practice at Windsor for twelve years, when he removed to Springfield Township, this county, buying 235 acres of the old homestead, located on section 15. Besides attending to a large practice, he has charge of his farm, and is also engaged in general stock raising. He is a member of the Masonic order, and politically he is a Democrat.
GRAY, William H.
Windsor Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 581
William H. Gray, section 13, was born in Accomack County, Virginia, April 7, 1844. In 1870 he came to Missouri and settled in Windsor, bought a farm, subsequently sold it, and has been trading land more or less ever since. He was a soldier in the Confederate army through the war under Stonewall Jackson, and once received a severe wound. Mr. Gray was married in Illinois in 1865, to Miss Frances M. Ingraham. They have one child, Willie Gray, eleven years old, October 20. Mr. Gray is a brick mason by trade, and also a brick manufacturer. He burned the first kiln of brick in the town, and has since manufactured many of the brick used here. He has a fine coal bed on his farm, which when worked promises to be of value.
GRETZINGER, George
Walker Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 394
George Gretzinger. The home place of Mr. and Mrs. George Gretzinger in Walker township is one of the truly attractive farmsteads in Henry county, and its owners can truthfully say that they have placed every tree, shrub, building and all improvements upon the tract upon which they settled in February of 1889. The nucleus of the Gretzinger farms was a tract of ninety-six acres which came to Mrs. Gretzinger from the Lebold estate upon the death of her mother, Mrs. John Barth. Mr. Barth gave them enough additional land to eke out 160 acres, which they built up and created into a splendid prairie farm. In addition to this home place they own 200 acres in White Oak township which Mr. Gretzinger and his sons are cultivating and raising large crops upon. George Gretzinger was born December 4, 1859, in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, a son of Jacob and Magdalena Gretzinger who died in Ohio. George Gretzinger came to Henry County in 1889 and on February 24th of that year was married. to Miss Dora Barth, who was born June 21, 1867, in Tuscarawas County, Ohio. She was six months of age when her parents, John and Mary (Lebold) Barth came to Henry County and settled in this vicinity. For further particulars regarding the biography of John Barth, who was one of the most successful and enterprising of Henry County's departed old settlers, the reader is referred to various sketches in this volume. Mr. Barth not only accumulated a fine estate, but he reared a splendid family of sons and daughters who have attained to positions of honor and affluence in their community. All have excellent homes and are prosperous, as well as being leaders in their home county. The following children have been born to George and Dora (Barth) Gretzinger: Earl, died at the age of three years; Arthur Lee, born December 9, 1893, at home with his parents; John Ross, born November 8, 1895, lives at home, married on September 2, 1917, to Mildred, daughter of Ellis Greenhalge, of Walker township. Mr. Gretzinger is a Republican in politics. Mr. and Mrs. Gretzinger and the children of the family are members of the Lucas Methodist Episcopal Church, excepting Arthur, who belongs to the White Oak Methodist Episcopal Church. The Gretzinger's are an industrious family, progressive, intelligent, and endeavor to keep abreast of the times in all things.
GRIEFE, Frederick H.
Springfield Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 558
Fred H. Griefe - Henry County has many true American citizens of German birth who came to this land of opportunity poor in purse, with no knowledge of the language and customs of the country and have become prosperous and are thoroughly in sympathy with American institutions and American ideals. We doubt very much if throughout the length and breadth of Henry County, where there are hundreds of well-to-do and contented farmer citizens of German birth or ancestry, there is a single one who is not thoroughly loyal to his adopted country. Fred H. Griefe, large land owner of Springfield township, is one of this large population who left Germany to escape the restrictions which hampered men of his class and kept them ground down to poverty through all of their lives. He has risen in the short space of thirty-eight years from being a common farm hand at a wage of $8.00 per month, to become one of the wealthy and progressive land owners of Henry County and is a citizen of truest worth and integrity. Fred H. Griefe was born in Lippe-Detmoldt, Germany, July 18, 1862, the son of Fred and Caroline (Tunnermann) Griefe, to whom four children were born: Caroline, widow of G. Scheele, Windsor, Missouri; Henrietta, wife of Christ Uhlenbock, Springfield township; Fred H., subject of this sketch; Henry, a merchant at Windsor, Missouri. The father of these children died in Germany in 1869. Fred H. Griefe was the second of the family to leave his native land, coming here in 1880. He first worked for two years and then sent for his mother and the rest of the family, who joined him in this county. Mrs. Caroline Griefe died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Christ Uhlenbock, in 1897 at the age of seventy-one years. Mr. Griefe began his career in Henry County as a farm hand at $8.00 per month. For a period of sixteen years he worked as farm laborer, eleven years with one employer. He purchased his first land in 1896, eighty acres in section 11, Springfield township. From this small beginning his large farm has grown, with the exercise of hard work, economy and good management, to the grand total of 554 acres. The Griefe farm is one of the best improved, most fertile and the best kept places in Henry County. Each year of Mr. Griefe's ownership has added to its value. In November, 1886, Fred H. Griefe and Miss Catherine Balke were united in marriage. Mrs. Catherine Griefe was born near Roseland, Springfield township, October 16, 1864, the daughter of John and Mary (Streeby) Balke, the former of whom was born in Germany and the latter in Henry County, both now deceased. To the marriage of Fred H. and Catherine Griefe were born children as follow: John W. and Charley, deceased; Lelia, at home with her parents. Mr. Griefe is a Republican. He and Mrs. Griefe attend divine services at the Methodist Church. He is affiliated with the Knights of Pythias and the Anti-Horse Thief Association.
GRIFFITH, Daniel Parris
Springfield Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 570
Daniel P. Griffith, proprietor of a fine farm of 196 acres located in sections 27 and 22 of Springfield township, is one of the successful live stock producers and feeders of Henry County. He was born in Louisa County, Iowa, March 30, 1855, the son of Isaac and Rebecca (Parris) Griffith, to whom nine children were born. Isaac Griffith was born in West Virginia in 1813 and went to Ohio when a young man. Not long after settling in Ohio he located in Iowa, where he was married. In 1868 he came to Missouri and bought a farm in Benton County, becoming owner of 200 acres of land which was his home until his death in 1878. The youthful days of Isaac Griffith were spent in poverty and he made his own way in the world. Having been left an orphan when a child, he was reared by a colored woman until he was able to make his own way. Mrs. Rebecca Griffith was born in New Jersey in 1821 and departed this life in 1877. Daniel P. Griffith was reared to young manhood on the farm in Benton County and he purchased a part of the old home place. His start in life was not auspicious, having began his career with a team of horses purchased on time and no money. He sold out his holdings in Benton County in 1885 and came to Henry County, where he purchased his farm and made good improvements thereon. For a period of ten years he operated the Thrush Mercantile Store. Mr. Griffith was married on March 2, 1884, to Mollie Strader, who was born in Tennessee March 2, 1863, the daughter of Jesse Strader, an early settler in Henry County, who later went to Oklahoma and died in that State. Four children have been born to Daniel P. and Mollie Griffith, as follow: Mrs. Ethel Cheatham, Buckner, Kansas, is the mother of two children, Paul and Uel; Sherman, was born February 15, 1888, married February 17, 1913, to May Schoonover, and has one child, Alma, resides on the home place; Horace, born April 16, 1892, a soldier in the National Army, member of the 110th Ammunition Train, now on the western front in France, and Leota, at home. Mr. Griffith is a Republican and has served as justice of the peace in Springfield township. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Griffith's success has been mainly due to the feeding and raising of live stock, his annual sales of live stock fed on his place exceeding three carloads. He is a progressive and enterprising citizen who stands high in his community.
GRIGSBY, Robert C.
LaDue, Davis Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 371
R. C. Grigsby. The LaDue Hardware Company, operated by R. C. Grigsby, La Due, Missouri, and owned by Mr. Grigsby and H. Welling, is one of the flourishing business concerns of Henry County. The store was established February 17, 1912, when Mr. Grigsby took active charge of it. During the past six years the business has increased and broadened. A general stock of hardware, oils, paints, agricultural implements, harness, buggies, wagons, etc., is carried and sold to the people of the surrounding country. The firm has the agency of the Buick automobiles. The business is housed in a large business room and two implement rooms which are filled with high grade stock of the best makes. R. C. Grigsby was born in Licking County, Ohio, November 24, 1869, and is the son of Alfred and Sarah (White) Grigsby, both of whom were natives of Licking County, Ohio. Alfred Grigsby was a son of Harry Grigsby, a native of England. Sarah Grigsby was the daughter of John White, also a native of England. The Grigsby family migrated from Ohio to Missouri in 1870 and located on a farm situated three miles southwest of LaDue, in Henry County. Mr. Grigsby hauled the first ties used in the building of the Missouri, Kansas & Texas railway in the neighborhood of LaDue. His farm was located in Bear Creek township. He successfully tilled his acreage until old age came upon him and he then removed to California in 1911. His death occurred at the home of his son in that State in 1913. Mrs. Grigsby died in Henry County in 1908. They were parents of the following children: Mrs. Ella Stricker, deceased; Henry, living in California; Mrs. Lizzie Stricker, residing in California; George, deceased; Nelson, living in California; Mattie, deceased, and R. C., the subject of this sketch. R. C. Grigsby was ten months old when he came with his parents to Henry County and here he was reared and educated. He attended the Willow Branch school and the Franklin school in his youthful days and received his higher education in the academy at Warsaw, Missouri. Mr. Grigsby qualified for the teaching profession, but took up farming and followed this vocation until 1910. For a period of two and a half years he was located in California, going to that State in 1906, and being employed in the orchard district as manager and also was engaged in the real estate business for a time. After returning to Henry County he farmed for one year and then took charge of the hardware business in LaDue. Mr. Grigsby disposed of his farm in 1915. On April 14, 1897, R. C. Grigsby and Miss Nannie E. Reavis of Bear Creek township were united in marriage. Mrs. Grigsby is the daughter of Mrs. Marian (Hunt) Reavis, widow of Edwin Reavis, a pioneer of Bear Creek township. Mr. and Mrs. Grigsby have a son, Cecil, born December 12, 1902. Mr. Grigsby is aligned with the Democratic party and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is affiliated, fraternally, with the Woodmen of the World. (NOTE: Alfred Grigsby's father was Henry Grigsby who was born in the Shenandoah Valley, Virginia. Henry's father was William, and he too was born in Virginia. One has to go back three more generations past William to find John Grigsby who was born in England and came to America. - Dr. Jay Worch, Columbus, Ohio.)
GRINSTEAD, Edmond B.
Windsor Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 547
Edmond B. Grinstead, an enterprising and progressive farmer and horse breeder of Windsor township, and proprietor of 250 acres of well improved farm lands, was born in Pettis County, Missouri, August 14, 1856. He is the son of George W. and Susan V. (Sacra) Grinstead, who were parents of nine sons and a daughter, all of whom were reared to maturity. George W. Grinstead was born in Kentucky in 1832 and was the son of pioneers and tillers of the soil for generations past. He crossed the plains in 1849 and spent several months in the gold fields of California. Upon his return he began farming near Georgetown, Pettis County, Missouri, and later purchased a farm in Johnson County. He ceased farming operations in 1890 and removed to Windsor, where his death occurred in 1911. Mrs. Susan V. (Sacra) Grinstead was born in Kentucky and attended school with the late Senator George Vest, of Missouri, who will always be remembered for his classical address at the trial of the famous dog case in Warrensburg. Mrs. Grinstead died in 1915. To George W. and Susan V. Grinstead were born children as follow: Mollie, deceased wife of Joseph M. Jones; Edmond B., subject of this sketch; Samuel, Sedalia, Missouri; William, a farmer of Pettis County, Missouri; Charles, a resident of Muskogee, Oklahoma; Hallie, deceased; Robert, Government income tax collector, Kansas City, Missouri; Ernest, in the employ of the Woodard Clothing Company, Windsor, Missouri; Thomas, Denver, Colorado; Sacra L., county clerk of Henry County, Clinton, Missouri; William, Pettis County, Missouri. Edmond B. Grinstead was reared to the life of a tiller of the soil, and he began his independent career upon attaining his majority. Early in life, he became interested in live stock and became an expert in this branch of animal husbandry, specializing in mules and has dealt in mules for many years. For a period of ten years he made a business of buying and shipping live stock, while carrying on his farming operations. He purchased his present home farm of 250 acres in 1901 and settled there in 1903. The Grinstead home place is nicely improved and is noted for the fine saddle horses bred by the owner. "Pearl Wilson," a splendid five year old saddle mare owned by Mr. Grinstead, won first prize at the Missouri State Fair for two successive seasons. Mr. Grinstead was married in February, 1901, to Miss Leona Cooper, who was born in Johnson County, Missouri, near the Henry-Johnson County line. She is the daughter of Henry and Nancy (Stiles) Cooper, the former of whom is deceased. Two children have been born to this union: Genevieve and Gayle. Henry Cooper was born in Trigg County, Kentucky, in 1818, a son of David Cooper, a native of Kentucky, who immigrated to Johnson County in 1832 and settled on the Cooper home place. He was father of seventeen children. David Cooper lived to the great age of eighty years. Henry Cooper died in 1910 at the age of ninety-two years. Nancy (Stiles) Cooper was born in Kentucky in 1834 and accompanied her father, David Stiles, to Missouri in 1840. To Henry and Nancy Cooper were born ten children: Elizabeth, deceased; David. on a farm in Johnson County; George, Warrensburg, Missouri; Jefferson D., Johnson County; Mrs. Margaret Muir, Windsor, Missouri; Lucy (Wilcox), Windsor; William, Windsor; John, on the Cooper home place, Johnson County; Frank, died in infancy. The Cooper place is widely known as the "Windsor Springs," noted for its fine water and was a picnic resort. Mr. Grinstead is a Democrat but has devoted very little time to political matters during his busy life. He is a member of the Anti-Horse Thief Association, and has been active in other matters of a civic nature, aside from his farming. He assisted in the organization of the Windsor Telephone Company and it was through his influence that the line was extended through to Leesville. Few people were sanguine of his enterprise, most folks prophesying that the venture would result in a financial failure. Mr. Grinstead persisted, however, and his energy and optimism regarding the project eventually won out, and the Windsor Telephone Company is now an excellent paying institution which gives good service to hundreds of patrons.
GROFF, Francis Marion
Bethlehem Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 786
Francis M. Groff, farmer, section 32, was born in Franklin County, Missouri, November 22, 1831. His father, Henry Groff, a native of Lexington, Kentucky, was born February 14, 1799, and when an infant was brought by the family to St. Louis County, Missouri, moving thence to Franklin County, in 1824. He married Roda Franklin, who was born in North Carolina, and who was there reared. She went to St. Louis County when a young lady and was there married. They had five children, Francis being the youngest. In the spring of 1850, they came to Henry County, Missouri, settling near Brownington, where they resided till the death of the father, in February, 1854. His mother's death occurred in 1832. In 1855 F. M. Groff moved on the place where he now resides. He has 330 acres of well improved land, a portion of which is valuable coal land. A mine is now open upon it and in operation. It is a two and one-half foot vein. Mr. Groff was united in marriage in August, 1854, to Miss Elvira B. Groff. They had one child, Caroline C. Mrs. Groff's death occurred in April, 1878. He was again married April 27, 1879, to Mrs. Climensia Burnsides, whose maiden name was Cox. They have one child, Delila E. From 1863 to 1865 Mr. G. was justice of the peace of Bethlehem Township. In 1872 he was elected a judge of the county court, and served one term.
GUTRIDGE, George W.
Bear Creek Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 767
George W. Gutridge, a native of Henry County, Missouri, was born December 25, 1846, and was the son of George Gutridge, who was born in Licking County, Ohio, his mother also being a native of that state. George Gutridge came to Missouri in 1838 and located in Henry County. He entered land in what is now Bear Creek Township and improved the farm where his family at this time lives. George W. spent his youth on his father's farm, and attending the schools of that day. He afterwards passed nine months at a select school in Brownville, Ohio. He was married at Brownville, October 10, 1867, to Miss Mary Swan, who was born, reared and educated in Licking County, Ohio. and a daughter of Monroe Swan. After his marriage Mr. Gutridge returned to Henry County where he has since been engaged in farming and stock raising. He has 100 acres of land in cultivation, and with good buildings and other improvements. He and his wife have a family of five children: Flora P., Eugene, George M., Cora Swan and Wilber King. Mr. Gutridge is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and himself and wife are connected with the M. E. Church, South.
GUTRIDGE, W. H.
Tebo Township
1883 History of Henry County Missouri, National Historical Co pg 642
W. H. Gutridge, druggist and dealer in druggist's sundries, a native of Lincoln County, Ohio, born March 17, 1830, and was a son of Payton and Elizabeth (Harbert) Gutridge, who were born in Ohio. W. H. was the eldest of a family of five children. When he was about three years old his parents removed to Missouri and located in Bates County, where he grew to manhood on a farm, receiving his education in the common schools. In 1847 he came to Calhoun, and followed farming till 1866, since which time he has been engaged in the drug trade, and in which he has been very successful. He is now one of the leading business men of the town. He is a member of Calhoun Lodge, No. 184, A. F. & A. M. July, 11, 1855, Mr. G. was married to Miss Delia Buster, a Virginian by birth. They have three children living: Edward B., Euphtus and James A.
GUTRIDGE, William Walter
Calhoun, Tebo Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 833
W. W. Gutridge of Clinton has been prominently identified with the banking interests of Henry County for a number of years but is now living retired. He was born at Calhoun October 15, 1866, and is a son of John W. and Mary Elizabeth (Pigg) Gutridge, the former a native of Licking County, Ohio, and the latter of Calhoun County, Missouri. John Gutridge was born in 1838 and when he was about six months old his parents came to Henry County and settled at Calhoun. He was a son of Peyton Gutridge, who after coming to Henry County followed farming the remainder of his life. Peyton Gutridge died on his farm near Calhoun about 1875, and his wife also spent her life on the home place near Calhoun. John Gutridge was reared to manhood on his father's farm, and in early life followed farming. Later he engaged in the mercantile business in Calhoun and was one of the pioneer merchants of that county. He was the founder of the Bank of Calhoun, which he practically owned and retained his interest in that institution until his death, at which time he was president. He owned considerable land in Henry County and was widely known as a successful stockman as well as a merchant and banker. During the Civil War he served in the State Militia. He died February 5, 1904. Mary Elizabeth (Pigg) Gutridge was a daughter of David H. and Edith (Robinson) Pigg, natives of Winchester, Kentucky, and among the very early pioneer settlers of Henry County, Missouri. David H. Pigg was one of the pioneer furniture dealers and cabinet makers of Calhoun. W. W. Gutridge was the oldest of a family of four children, as follow: Cora, married W. A. Tarr, Calhoun, Missouri; Ollie, married Clay Adair, postmaster of Clinton, a sketch of whom appears in this volume; Edith, married W. B. Graham, Kansas City, Missouri. Mr. Gutridge was reared to manhood in Calhoun and received his education in the public schools there. He began life as a clerk in a store in Calhoun, and later entered the Bank of Calhoun, becoming its cashier in 1896. He served in that capacity until 1910, and since that time has been engaged in the real estate and loan business and has given his personal attention to his private interests. He is interested in a number of banking institutions as a stockholder, but is not active in the management of any of them. In 1912 he moved to Clinton and since that time he has made his home there. On June 10, 1896, Mr. Gutridge was united in marriage with Miss Edith Cameron, a native of Henry County and a daughter of Allen Cameron, who came from New York to Henry County in 1870. Mrs. Gutridge is a graduate of the State Normal School at Warrensburg, class of 1891. To Mr. and Mrs. Gutridge has been born a daughter, Mary Shirley, who is a graduate of the Clinton High School, class of 1918. Mr. and Mrs. Gutridge and their daughter are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
GUYNN, R. A.
Montrose, Deepwater Township
1919 History of Henry Co MO, Uel W. Lamkin, Historical Publishing Co pg 863
R. A. Guynn, president of the Farmers and Merchants Bank of Montrose, Missouri, was born in Pennsylvania, December 10, 1860, and is the son of Vincent and Hannah (Shelby) Guynn, both natives of Pennsylvania. Hannah (Shelby) Guynn was a niece of Gen. J. O. Shelby of Civil War fame. The Guynns migrated to Illinois in 1861 and came to Henry County, Missouri, in 1867, locating upon a partly improved farm in Bear Creek township, which Mr. Guynn purchased. In later years Vincent Guynn lost his health and retired to a home in Montrose, where he died in 1883 at the age of 55 years. His wife, Hannah, was born in 1832 and died in 1885. They were parents of seven children: R. A., subject of this sketch; Mrs. Jennie Sagesser, deceased; Mrs. Annie Walker, a widow living at Appleton City, Missouri; Mrs. Linnie Williams, residing in Ohio; John, deceased; May, and Richard, deceased. The early education of R. A. Guynn was obtained in the public schools of Calhoun, where his father was located prior to settling upon his farm near Montrose. He pursued a course in pharmacy and in 1872 he established a drug store in Montrose. For a period of thirty-five years he was successfully engaged in the drug business and is one of the oldest business men of Montrose in point of years of service in business. He engaged in the banking business in 1907 and is making a success of finance. Mr. Guynn is interested in agricultural pursuits and owns a splendid farm of 428 acres near Montrose, the cultivation of which he personally oversees. R. A. Guynn and Miss Zella Kistler were united in marriage in 1893. Mrs. Zella Guynn is a native of Ohio and a daughter of J. C. Kistler, who resides upon a farm one mile west of Clinton. Six children have blessed this union: Emmet, born in 1894, resides upon a farm north of Clinton; Reuben, born 1895, a chemist by profession, now in the national service, as first sergeant at the Base Hospital, Fort Doniphan, enlisted at Kansas City, Missouri, in April, 1917, disposed of his drug business at Kansas City, first stationed at Jefferson Barracks, then at Fort Snelling and now at Fort Doniphan, was married when home on furlough to Miss Mattie Wallace, a teacher in the Chilhowee, Missouri, schools; Lucille, born 1897, a graduate of the Clinton High School and a teacher in the Franklin school at Clinton; Genevieve, born 1899, a student in the Chicago Conservatory of Music; Shelby, born 1901, graduate of the Clinton High School, class of 1918; Zella, born 1903, student in the Montrose High School, class of 1918. Mr. Guynn is a Democrat in politics and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. He is one of the substantial and leading citizens of Montrose whose influence has ever been on the side of advancement for his home city and the surrounding territory. Farmers and Merchants Bank, Montrose, Missouri - The statements of the Farmers and Merchants Bank of Montrose, Missouri, show that the region tributary to Montrose is prospering as never before in its history. From November 20, 1917, to March 4, 1918, this bank had an increase of deposits exceeding $50,000, which is no small item for a bank in a small city. This bank was established in 1907 with a cash capital of $10,000, by Mr. R. A. Guynn and others. Mr. Guynn was the first president of the bank, and the first cashier was Mr. Linton. The present officers are: R. A. Guynn, president; C. M. Clark, cashier; Charles H. Engeman, vice-president; R. A. Guynn, C. M. Clark, Charles H. Engeman, J. N. Kauman, C. J. Kauman, Mrs. W. J. Brownsberger, and Mrs. R. A. Guynn, directors. Every dollar invested in the stock of this bank is owned and controlled by home people and is distributed among twenty stockholders. The official statement of this bank as made to the State Bank Commissioner on March 4, 1918, shows a capital stock of $10,000; surplus of $8,000; undivided profits of $2,500; and total deposits of $187,742. This bank is an United States Depository for postal savings.
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