Christian County MO

Biography of A. Harrington

A. Harrington, born on December 25, 1849, in Greene County, Missouri, became a prominent attorney in Springfield after a diverse and challenging upbringing. Orphaned by childhood, he displayed early patriotism by enlisting in the military at 13, participating in key Civil War battles. After the war, he self-educated in law and began practicing in 1879. Harrington held significant legal positions, notably as prosecuting attorney, and was involved in many crucial cases in the region. He was also engaged in local politics and maintained a commitment to his community and family.

Biography of Capt. George W. Taylor

Captain George W. Taylor, born on January 4, 1840, in Greene County, Missouri, was a prominent figure in his community and a dedicated military officer during the Civil War. He enlisted at a young age and eventually led Company M, Sixteenth Missouri Volunteer Cavalry, participating in numerous battles. After the war, he became a successful farmer and stock trader in Christian County. Active in local politics and community affairs, he served as county treasurer and was involved in educational initiatives. Taylor was married to Sarah J. Conrad, and they had five children.

Biography of Henry H. Lee

Henry H. Lee was a significant pioneer in Christian County, Missouri, born on February 15, 1837, in Tennessee. His family emigrated to Missouri in 1851, where he became a successful farmer, acquiring 650 acres and engaging in milling. A Civil War veteran and advocate for education and community initiatives, he was deeply respected as a Democratic member and a deacon in the Christian Church. Married to Mary M. Hyde, they had six children, and he was renowned for his hard work and generosity. Lee’s legacy reflects his commitment to community and family.

Biography of James P. Lee

James P. Lee, born in 1855 in Washington County, Pennsylvania, is a prominent member of the Merrick Lee general merchants in Swan, Missouri. Known for his honorable business practices, he has gained the respect of the community. Educated later in life, Lee transitioned from farming to merchandising in 1890, while maintaining agricultural interests. He married Alfredine A. Meyers in 1878 and is an active member of the Odd Fellows. Lee’s rise in business is attributed to his industrious nature and commitment to education.

Biography of William A. Merritt

William A. Merritt, born on January 24, 1837, in Christian County, Missouri, was a notable pioneer. He began his career in merchandising before mining in Leadville during the Civil War. After various ventures, including operating a sawmill and cattle driving, he returned to Missouri in 1868. Merritt married Louise Greer in 1875, and together they had four children. A supporter of Democratic politics and a member of the A.F. & A.M., he enjoyed a successful farming life, owning a 273-acre farm in Douglas County.

Biography of William Brown

William Brown, born on April 27, 1845, in Wilkes County, North Carolina, became a prominent farmer in Christian County, Missouri. Raised with limited education in a farming family, he served in the Missouri State Militia during the Civil War. In 1868, he married Eliza White, with whom he had eight children. Settling on a 160-acre farm near Billings, Brown focused on livestock and was active in his community through the Knights of the Horse, identifying as a Republican and a Methodist.

Biography of G. T. B. Perry

G. T. B. Perry, a distinguished general merchant from Ozark, embodies the principles of shrewdness and integrity in business. Born in Kentucky, he became an esteemed educator before transitioning to merchandising in 1881, achieving significant success. Active in politics, he served as county treasurer and held various positions in local governance. A member of the I.O.O.F. and Royal Arcanum, Perry values community improvement and education. He is married to Nannie A. Williams, and they have four children, actively participating in the Christian Church.

Biography of J. M. Gideon, M. D.

Dr. J. M. Gideon, born December 11, 1855, in Christian County, has earned the trust and esteem of the Ozark community through his exemplary medical practice and scientific contributions. With a medical career beginning under Dr. Parker, he practiced in various locations before settling in Ozark in 1893. A progressive physician and loyal community member, Dr. Gideon is also active socially and politically. He married Ottie Handy, with whom he has two children, and is recognized as a leading physician in southwest Missouri.

Biography of Henry J. Hinkle

Henry J. Hinkle, born on March 8, 1856, in Fremont County, Iowa, became a significant figure in the hardware trade in Sparta, Missouri. He learned blacksmithing from his father and initially operated a shop in Taney County before moving to Texas and then Sparta in 1883. Hinkle transitioned to the hardware business around 1892 and later opened a hotel. A Republican and active member of the Christian Church, he has a family with his wife, Ellen, and has contributed to Sparta’s growth through his business endeavors.

Biography of William French

William French, born in Caldwell County, Kentucky, in 1835, was a significant figure in Christian County, Missouri. He was the son of Joseph and Lucy French, whose family had deep roots in American history. After moving to Missouri in 1851, William established himself as a successful farmer near Billings. He served briefly in the United States Army during the Civil War. French was active in local politics, embracing various parties throughout his life, and contributed to community development as a respected citizen and deacon in the Missionary Baptist Church.

Houses of the Osage Tribe

Frame of an Osage habitation, near Hominy, Okla., 1911

The Osage Tribe historically inhabited the Ozarks in Missouri, living in permanent villages until their removal in the early 19th century. They constructed distinctive mat and bark-covered lodges, unlike other tribes, adaptable to their environment rich in game and resources. Accounts from explorers, including Lewis and Clark and Schoolcraft, detail their settlements and temporary encampments. By the early 19th century, the tribe consisted of multiple bands, and their architectural styles reflect both ancestral connections and the practicality of their lifestyle amid changing circumstances.