Biography of Rufus McLelland
Rufus McLelland, born May 17, 1822, in North Carolina, moved to south Missouri in 1851 after a long journey. He established himself as a successful stockman in Oregon County. During the Civil War, he served as county clerk while managing his farms. A Democrat, McLelland’s early political engagement included voting for Polk and Taylor. He had eight children with his first wife, Mira Piercey, and later married twice more. McLelland is recognized for his honorable life and contributions to the community, now retired on his 333-acre farm.