Ralls County MO Genealogy – Access Genealogy

Early Settlers of Ralls County, Missouri

The manuscript “Early Settlers of Ralls County, Missouri” compiled by Eunice Moore Anderson in 1951 serves as a valuable resource for those tracing their family genealogy in Ralls County. Divided into three parts, the compilation focuses on documenting early settlers prior to 1878, drawing from sources such as county atlases and historical records spanning Marion, Ralls, Pike Counties, and beyond. While not aiming to provide a comprehensive history, Anderson’s work catalogues pioneer families, offering insights into their origins, migration dates to Ralls County, and family connections. This structured approach, supplemented by an alphabetical index, aids researchers in navigating through ancestral records and locating further detailed information within related historical volumes.

Missouri Atlases and Plat Books

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.

Slave Narrative of Henry Dant of Hannibal, Missouri

Henry Dant, approximately 105 years old, recalls his life as a slave on Judge Daniel Kendrick’s farm in Ralls County. He describes a mixed experience of fair treatment yet strenuous work, including farming and caring for livestock. Dant married and had three children before their emancipation, receiving minimal assistance after freedom. He worked various jobs, played music for local events, and later owned his own farm. Currently, he resides with his daughter in Hannibal and receives a modest pension.

Slave Narrative of William Black of Hannibal, Missouri

William Black, an eighty-five-year-old ex-slave from Hannibal, Missouri, shares his life experiences from slavery to freedom. Bonded out at eight, he recalls a relatively benign childhood with Mr. Sam Briggs, where he took care of Briggs’ children. Despite a lack of formal education, he expresses a desire to learn to read and write. Black reflects on the hardships of slavery, the struggle for freedom, and the changes he perceives in the younger generation. Now living alone, he actively participates in religious activities and cultivates a small garden.

Biography of Charles A. Leavy, M. D.

Dr. Charles A. Leavy, born on September 25, 1873, in Palmyra, Missouri, specializes in otolaryngology in St. Louis. He graduated from Marion Sims Beaumont Medical College in 1903 and served as a clinical instructor for twelve years. Dr. Leavy furthered his expertise through post-graduate studies in Europe. He served in the U.S. Army during World War I, managing ear, nose, and throat care at Camp Sherman. Active in various fraternal organizations, he is recognized for his dedication to medicine and community service.

Biography of Henry Jackson Waters

Professor Henry Jackson Waters, born on November 23, 1865, in Center, Missouri, is a prominent figure in agricultural science. He earned a Bachelor of Agriculture from Missouri State University in 1886 and held key positions in various agricultural institutions, including professor and dean at the College of Agriculture and Mechanical Arts of Missouri. Waters contributed significantly to agricultural literature, focusing on nutrition in farming and livestock, and held leadership roles in several agricultural societies. He served as managing editor of the Weekly Kansas City Star and was influential in agricultural education and policy.

Biography of W. L. Stowers

W. L. Stowers, born on August 2, 1843, in Marion County, Missouri, became a notable businessman as the proprietor of the West Plains Hotel, established in 1883. Orphaned at four, he was raised by relatives and pursued education until the Civil War disrupted his studies. Following a successful stint in gold mining in Montana, he returned to Missouri, married Bettie Maddox, and engaged in farming before entering the hotel industry. Stowers is also involved in local finance and community organizations, remaining a prominent Democratic figure in West Plains.

Biography of William F. Webster

William F. Webster, born in Ralls County, Missouri, on June 18, 1828, is a significant figure in Stone County’s history, recognized for his self-made success and adherence to the Golden Rule. He married Elizabeth J. Reed in 1849 and engaged in various agricultural and business ventures, including saw milling. A Civil War veteran and former sheriff, Webster has been influential in the community, accumulating approximately 600 acres of land. He and his wife had ten children and remain active members of the Church of Christ.

Millering, Della (Kindred) – Obituary

Della Millering, aged 90, passed away on Wednesday at Valley View Manor in La Grande. Born on December 2, 1892, in Perry, Missouri, she moved to the Grande Ronde Valley in 1905 and married Frank Earl Millering in 1914. She is predeceased by her husband and a son. A member of the First Christian Church, she is survived by her daughter, a daughter-in-law, five grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Graveside services will be held Friday at Hillcrest Cemetery.

Biography of Henry Jackson Waters

Biography of Dr. Thomas Jefferson Bailey

Dr. Thomas Jefferson Bailey, born on January 17, 1803, in Lincoln County, Kentucky, established a successful medical practice in Missouri after moving there in 1828. Known for his compassionate care and reasonable fees, he earned the esteem of his patients. A staunch Whig, he actively engaged in local politics and supported the Union during the Civil War. After his death on April 17, 1869, he bequeathed his estate to family, former slaves, and local volunteers. He is remembered for his generosity and commitment to the community.