Colony Kansas

Biography of Capt. William E. Payton

Capt. William E. Payton, born December 15, 1879, in Butler County, Kansas, has made significant contributions to both journalism and military service in the state. He served in the Philippine insurrection and currently leads the Machine Gun Company of the 3rd Kansas Infantry. A dedicated newspaper editor, he has owned and operated the Colony Free Press since 1912. Payton is also noted for his role in establishing educational institutions in his community and has been active in local organizations alongside his wife, Clara Godding, and their three sons.

Biographical Sketch of Herbert Hickman

Herbert Hickman, born December 6, 1893, in Las Animas, Colorado, is the editor and owner of The Florence Bulletin, a position he secured after years of diligent work in the printing field. Orphaned young, he was raised by his maternal grandparents in Colony, Kansas, where he gained valuable newspaper experience. He became foreman of The Bulletin in 1914 and purchased the paper in 1917. Hickman, married to Florence Waddel, is connected to the Ancient Order of United Workmen, contributing to his community through journalism.

Biography of Samuel C. Varner

Samuel C. Varner, born December 10, 1845, in Monongahela, Pennsylvania, was a Civil War veteran and prominent merchant in Moran, Kansas. His early life included significant military service as an officer in the Illinois Infantry. After various business endeavors across Illinois and Iowa, he settled in Moran in 1880, where he established a successful lumber and hardware business and the Peoples State Bank. Active in the community, Varner was a dedicated Mason and a member of the Christian Church. He married Annie McCord in 1863.

Biography of James H. Campbell

James H. Campbell, a key figure in Iola, Kansas’ financial landscape, has dedicated his life to building a successful career, beginning as a clerk in a drug store and becoming the cashier of the Iola State Bank. Born in 1874 in Anderson County, he is the son of James H. Campbell, a pioneer lawyer and legislator. Active in various businesses and community organizations, Campbell embodies a commitment to Iola’s growth. He married Kate V. Ausherman in 1903 and they have two children.

Biography of Leslie J. Campbell

Leslie J. Campbell was born on April 22, 1889, in Iola, Kansas, into a prominent family integral to the region’s development. His father, Altes H. Campbell, a distinguished lawyer and civic leader, influenced Leslie’s early life. After being educated locally and learning the undertaking business, Leslie established the Campbell Undertaking Company in 1910, where he serves as president. Politically active as a Republican and a vestryman in the Episcopal Church, he is also involved in various fraternal organizations. He married Almeda O. Arnold in 1911.

Biography of Charles Rudolph Nesbitt

Charles Rudolph Nesbitt, born on May 24, 1892, in Colony, Kansas, has quickly established himself as a prominent attorney in Miami. He earned his Bachelor and Master’s degrees from the University of Kansas before studying law at Yale. In 1916, he began practicing law with his brother in Oklahoma, garnering a notable clientele. An industrious professional, Nesbitt is also an active community member and a dedicated family man. He has contributed to the war effort during World War I and maintains affiliations with various organizations.