198 online plat books and atlases organized by county and ordered by date for the State of Missouri. At the bottom of the page are two items that can help you use these documents in your genealogy research. The first is a blog post Plat Books Revealed: Mapping Generations of History and the second a video where Ben Clark explains what plat maps are used for, how to navigate them, and pulls out a few interesting stories from them.
Lewis Mundy, born into slavery in Lewis County, Missouri, recounts his life experiences on the farm of John Wright. He describes his upbringing, working in the fields, and the treatment he received from his master and mother. After emancipation, Mundy found work in various farms and eventually in the Burlington Shops in Hannibal. He has consistently participated in voting and remains active in the Baptist Church. Reflecting on the changes over time, he observes the opportunities available to the younger generation.
Joshua W. Alexander was born on January 22, 1852, in Cincinnati, Ohio. After moving to Minnesota and later Missouri, he attended school in Canton and graduated from Christian University in 1872. He started teaching before studying law, ultimately being admitted to the bar in 1875. In Gallatin, he partnered with Judge S. A. Richardson, serving as city attorney and public administrator. He married Roe Ann Richardson in 1876, and they had three children. The Alexanders are members of the Christian Church.
Dr. Arista Tarvin Hayman, born July 8, 1874, in Monticello, Missouri, pursued a career in medicine after completing his education at Barnes Medical College in 1903. He served in the city health department before establishing a successful general practice in St. Louis. A first lieutenant in the Medical Corps during World War I, he supports the Democratic Party and is active in his church. Married to Carrie Miller, they have two daughters. Hayman is recognized for his dedication to medicine and his community.
W. F. Cook, born on February 2, 1868, in Lewis County, Missouri, is the prominent cashier of the Willow Springs Bank, noted for its financial stability. He graduated from La Grange College and briefly attended law school. In 1889, Cook established the bank after assessing various locations. He has actively contributed to local governance, serving on the town and school boards, and has participated in community improvement projects. Married to Lulu Sturgeon, they have one daughter and Cook is also engaged in various business ventures, including the lumber company and real estate.
John Hornbeak, born on August 12, 1830, in Warren County, Tennessee, became a prominent merchant in Sparta, Missouri. His parents, James F. and Sarah Hornbeak, were early settlers in Greene County, Missouri. Hornbeak’s business career began in merchandising in Ozark, expanding to several locations before settling in Sparta in 1883. He served in the Civil War, attaining the rank of major, and was politically active as a Republican, elected twice to the state legislature. Hornbeak was known for his strong character, community contributions, and successful business endeavors.
William Lenox McWilliams, born on April 29, 1865, in Missouri, is a prominent figure in Miami, Oklahoma. Initially a pioneering physician and one of Miami’s first settlers, he transitioned to finance, becoming president of the First National Bank and an influential organizer in local politics. Active in the republican party, he served as mayor and was involved in various community initiatives. A successful rancher and businessman, McWilliams has left a lasting impact on the region through his diverse contributions and investments.
Wendell H. Abell, 81, of Island City, passed away at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Boise. Born on December 23, 1924, in Missouri, he moved to Oregon with his family and began working in a lumber yard at 16. He married Constance Ott in 1952 and had a long career in retail. Abell served as the mayor of Island City and was actively involved in the community through various boards and clubs. He is survived by his wife, a son, siblings, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Elder J. A. Woodyard passed away on June 7, 1912, in North Kittitas, Washington. Born on June 10, 1829, in Indiana, Woodyard dedicated his life to ministry after being ordained in 1874, preaching until shortly before his death due to a stroke. He was married for 50 years to Mary J. Maddox, who predeceased him in 1899. His funeral took place at the Christian church, attended by many friends and family. He is survived by three sons and two daughters, leaving a legacy of faith and service.
Missouri Cemetery Transcriptions, Jasper to Marion
Benjamin Harper, born in Philadelphia in 1817, became a significant figure in Rock Island, Illinois, following his entrepreneurial journey from his humble beginnings in Cincinnati. After selling cider as a youth, he established successful businesses, including a thriving packing operation and the prestigious Harper House hotel. A generous philanthropist, Harper contributed greatly to Rock Island’s growth through housing and public improvements. Politically active as a Republican and twice serving as mayor, he was esteemed by locals for his dedication to the community and family. Harper passed away in 1887.