New Harmony Indiana

Biography of James Colyer Gordon

James Colyer Gordon, born October 31, 1874, in New Harmony, Indiana, significantly influenced Independence’s waterworks system alongside his father, Francis Marion Gordon, who served as its engineer for thirty years. Both played critical roles in modernizing the municipal water facility, which features state-of-the-art pumping engines and filtration systems. James began his engineering career with the city at nineteen and eventually became superintendent. He married Kate Jones in 1906 and fathered three children, while maintaining active community involvement through various civic organizations.

Biography of George J. Pfister

George J. Pfister, a prominent figure in Coffeyville, Kansas, exemplified how private enterprise can serve a community. Born in Indiana in 1866, he moved to Kansas with his family, engaging in ranching and cattle raising, which laid the foundation for his significant property holdings. A dedicated supporter of local initiatives, Pfister was active in real estate and served as president of the Montgomery County Fair Association. Married in 1888, he had four children and preferred contributing to his community outside of political office.

Biography of James W. Henderson, M. D.

Dr. James W. Henderson, M.D., a respected physician and businessman, settled in Labette County, Kansas, in 1884 after overcoming early hardships as a teacher and student of medicine. Born on September 13, 1846, in Indiana, he dedicated nearly three decades to his medical practice until retiring in 1913. Alongside his medical career, he engaged in community service through various lodges and was elected president of the Labette State Bank in 1913. He lost his wife in 1916 and has one daughter, Mabel, who is active in the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Biographical Sketch of J. W. Farrar

J. W. Farrar, born on March 4, 1827, near Charleston, South Carolina, eventually settled in Illinois after various moves during his youth. He married Ann M. Talbot in 1851, with whom he had eight children. Over the years, he engaged in multiple trades, including farming and tanning, before establishing himself in Coles County, Illinois, in 1864. A dedicated community member, Farrar served as Road Commissioner and School Trustee, ultimately owning 310 acres of land earned through hard work.