Miles Bristow was born in Jackson County, Indiana, June 2, 1836. His father was a native of Kentucky. His parents moved to Gallatin, Daviess County, Missouri, when he was about three years of age, where he remained until the death of his father in 1851. During the next three years he spent the greater part of his time with his brother on a farm, and in a tannery at Gallatin; then purchased land in Sheridan township, and for over four years was engaged in farming and teaching. In 1862 he was enrolled in Company E, Fifty-first Regiment Missouri Infantry, and served as second lieutenant until August, 1864, when he enlisted in Company. B, Forty-fourth Regiment Missouri Infantry, where he was soon promoted to his former position and served one year, when he returned home. In 1873 he was elected clerk of Sheridan Township, but resigned the office at the end of three years, and has since been engaged in teaching and farming.
Mr. Bristow was married, February 27, 1859, to Miss Mary E. Loyd. She was born in Ray County, Missouri, October 8, 1836. Twelve children have been born to them, ten of whom are now living: John A. and Ida B., twins; William M., Mary E., Sarah E., Samuel L., James A., Thomas B., Edgar C. and Ernest V.