-410-

A. J. CONNER. A part of the new county of Beckham having been formerly included in the. Texas county of Greer, it is natural to find a considerable number of residents who have lived here since the older conditions. Sayre's oldest druggist, A. J., or better known to hundreds of citizens as Hank Conner, has been identified with this corner of Oklahoma from the Years when Greer county was a part of Texas. Two years after the annexation of the county to Oklahoma, in 1898, he moved to a homestead on the North Fork about a mile and a half from the site of Sayre. Three years later the advent of the Choctaw Railroad effected, a rearrangement of conditions in this part of the territory, and shortly after the town of Sayre was established fie left his farming and cattle operations and started what is known as the City Drug store, the oldest and largest pharmacy and drug store in the town.
     Hank Conner is a typical westerner and frontiersman. He was practically reared on the cattle range, and before becoming a merchant at Sayre had spent all his active years in the cattle business. He was born in Burnet county, Texas, in 1860, and spent his early years on the great ranges of southwest Texas, in Burnet, McCulloch and San Saba counties. In 1878, when eighteen years old, he came to the Texas Panhandle country, which at that time had no other interests than cattle raising. Mobeetie, the county seat of Wheeler county, was likewise the seat of justice and the metropolis for all the Panhandle country. Mr. Conner had his headquarters there, and for several years was connected with some of the prominent cattle outfits of those days. Later he became a rancher in Greer county, and henceforth has been identified with this region. By his marriage to Miss Maggie Heffernan, a native of Nolan county, Texas, Mr. Conner has two children, Alva and Ira.

-410-
cont.

ERASMUS G. THURMOND. The sixteen years that have elapsed since the opening of the Cheyenne and Arapahoe reservations on April 19, 1892, have witnessed a remarkable development of this part of Western Oklahoma. The region that up to that time had been a vast grazing country was soon turned into many productive areas where corn, wheat, cotton, broom corn and other staple crops enriched thousands of settlers from near and far-off states. The counties of Blaine, Custer, Dewey, Roger Mills, Beckham, and Washita are notable as well for their splendid progress in the past as for their tremendous possibliities [possibilities] of the future.
     With regard to the business interests of this section, much that is of historical value may be written from the record of the activities of one man and his family. Throughout this section of the state the name of Eramus G, Thurmond is practically synonomous [synonymous] with business on a large scale, with sound credit in finance, and with public spirit in the prosecution and extension of business affairs. "Uncle Jube Thurmond," as he is popularly known, is a pioneer of the Cheyenne and Arapahoe reservations, was one of its first merchants and cattlemen, and now in connection with his sons is at the head of a chain of eleven banks that forn1 the financial basis for a large proportion of the business carried on in western Oklahoma.
     His career both before and after coming to Oklahoma has unusual interest. Born in Wayne county, Kentucky, in 1844, when nine years old (1853) he moved with his parents to Tarrant county, Texas, to a ranch northwest of Fort Worth. At that time Fort Worth was still a fort, with a small settlement about it, and Birdville was the county seat and most important town. Mr. Thurmond was identified with the frontier until the frontier was wiped out by the advance of settlement, and is one of the most typical and successful of the rugged characters who developed the southwest country. The cattle business being the most important industry of northwest Texas in those days, he was connected with it from boyhood. During the Civil war he enlisted in Company E of the Fifteenth Texas, under Colonel Sweet of Galveston, who subsequently became a famous newspaper man of that state. After a service throughout the rebellion, he participated in the struggle against the Indians of northwestern Texas, and was one of the builders of Fort Richardson in Jack county, where he made his headquarters several years. For nine years before moving across the line into the new country of Oklahoma, he was a cattleman of the Texas Panhandle, living on a ranch at Mobeetie.
     With the opening of the Cheyenne and Arapahoe reservations in 1892, he made the run into the country and has lived here ever since. Taking up a quarter section near Cheyenne in Roger Mills county, and subsequently acquir-

-411-

ing more land in that vicinity, he continued to engage in the cattle business. Then with his older sons he became one of the pioneer merchants of Cheyenne, and the success of this business was the foundation far the increasing commercial and financial interests that are now associated with the name of Thurmond.
     In 1898, with the establishment of the Cheyenne State Bank, the Thurmonds entered the field of enterprise to which they now give their principal attention. The Cheyenne bank is the parent institution of ten other banks, all owned by Mr. Thurmond and sons, giving them the largest banking prestige of any firm in the western portion of Oklahoma. Their leading institution, and the one which is their business headquarters, is the First National Bank of Elk City, which was established September 4, 1902. The First National, of which Mr. Thurmond is president, has a capital and surplus of $100,000, and has had a growth in keeping with the wonderful development of Elk City and its rich surrounding country, where the rare resources in the production of broom corn, cotton, wheat, corn, etc., make this particular region one of the marvels of the new state. Far about a year before the establishment af the bank at Elk City the Thurmonds had a mercantile business there, but are no longer connected with this form of business. However, they still have large landed interests in Roger Mills and Beckham counties. The nine other banks of the firm, besides the two mentioned, are: The Citizens National of Cordell, the First National of Clinton, the First National of Foss, the First National of Sayre, the First State of Erick, the State Bank of Canute, the State Bank of Dill, the First National of Texola, and the State Bank of Grand in Ellis county.
     The growth to wealth and high standing of the Thurmond family make a more remarkable record when it is considered that they were in very modest circumstances when they came to Oklahoma in 1892. They have made their fortune through hard work, honest efforts, square dealing with their patrons, and by keeping pace with the development of this country. The five sons are O. H., A. L., E. K., I. C., and John Peter. There is one daughter, Florence, the wife of C. E. Gannaway, cashier of the bank at Clinton.

-411-
cont.

DR. S. F. SCOTT, a physician and surgeon of Waukomis, is a native of the southwest, his birth having occurred in Texas, on the 24th of January, 1851. His father, Dr. R. H. Scott, was a native of Missouri but in early life removed to Louisiana. There he studied medicine and began the practice of his chosen profession. In 1847 he removed to Texas, where he continuously and successfully engaged in practice until 1863, when he became a resident of Illinois, opening an office. He was then a practitioner of that state until 1887, when his life's labors were ended in death at the age of sixty-six years. His wife bore the maiden name of Mary A. Smith and was a native of Kentucky.
    Dr. Scott was educated in Irvington College, Illinois, completing a course there by graduation. Attracted to the medical profession by natural predilection and by environment, he pursued his private reading under the direction of his father and was afterward graduated from the Northwestern Medical College at St. Joseph, Missouri, in 1886. He practiced in Illinois for a number of years before his graduation, and in 1881 went to Kansas, where he remained in practice until 1890. In that year he again took up his abode in Missouri, where he resided until the opening of the Cherokee strip, when he made the run from the southern line and located on a claim twelve miles southeast of Waukomis, his tract of land being situated on Skeleton creek. There he resided for two years, after which he took up his abode in the town and has been practicing here continuously far twelve years. His son Hugh, well known as a leader in political circles in the state, practiced with him far two years and then became private secretary to Congressman McGuire and afterward took a similar position with Gov. Frantz. He held a government appointment at Pawhuska far eight months. He is a popular and influential member of the Republican party and one of its best known representatives in the state.
     Dr. Scott was married in 1907 to Miss Lillian Farris, a lady of Scotch descent. He is a gentleman of culture, of strong intellectual attainments and of high ideals. In companionship he is genial and social and is therefore an interesting conversationalist, who keeps well informed on the topics of general interest. In his religious views he is liberal but was reared to have the strictest regard far integrity and righteousness. He sacredly cherishes the memory of his father and follows his teachings, never using tobacco nor intoxicants. He is not, however, fanatical on the subject but believes in personal liberty and feels that re-

-412-

form should come through the education of the individual toward higher ideals and a recognition of the worth of better forms of living. In professional lines he is identified with a number of medical societies and has made for himself a prominent place in professional circles by reason of his research and investigation and his unfaltering fidelity to the interests of those who come under his care in professional lines.

-412-
cont.

J. A. RANDOLPH. As long as memory remains to the American people will the name of the Roosevelt Rough Riders be mentioned with honor. J. A. Randolph was among the number who went to Cuba and made the famous ride up San Juan hill in the face of the enemy's fire. It was one of the most brilliant military exploits ever known to history and Mr. Randolph has every reason to be proud of the fact that he was one of the regiment that took part in that gallant charge. Equally loyal to his country in the days of peace he is now acceptably filling the position of postmaster at Waukomis. He was born in Iowa May 29, 1858. His father, William S. Randolph, was a native of Ohio and when a young man went to Iowa. A few years later he became a resident of Kansas, where he made his home until the opening of the Cherokee strip in 1893, when he came to Oklahoma. He first settled in Woods county but soon afterward became a resident of Garfield county, where he spent his remaining days, his death occurring in Waukomis in 1904. His widow, Mrs. Mary Etta (Ulm) Randolph, is a native of Illinois.
     J. A. Randolph pursued his education in the common schools of Iowa and after putting aside his text-books learned the carpenter's trade. He went to Kansas with his father but after a brief period returned to his native state and there engaged in general farming and in the real estate business. He also spent several years in New Mexico as a ranchman. Prior to the opening of the Cheyenne and Arapahoe territory he lived for three years in Illinois and thence came to Oklahoma in 1893, making his way to Kingfisher. In the vicinity of that city he settled upon a claim, where he remained until the opening of the Cherokee strip in 1893. In that year he removed to Waukomis and was here engaged in the hotel and real estate business for several years.
     In 1898 Mr. Randolph heard his country's call for volunteers and responded, becoming a member of the Roosevelt Rough Riders, who, under the leadership of the gallant "Colonel Teddy" covered themselves with glory in the charge up the hill of San Juan. This was one of the most brilliant feats recorded upon the pages of America's military history and the Rough Riders returned home to receive the plaudits and honor of their fellow countrymen everywhere. When the war was over Mr. Randolph resumed the pursuits of peace againg locating in Waukomis, where he devoted his time and energies to the real estate business. It is a notable fact that the American soldier can make a splendid record upon the field of battle but when he returns he unostentatiously and quietly takes up the pursuits of civil life, demanding no recognition for what he has done, content to serve his country when needed and then again turn his attention to his personal business interests. This Mr. Randolph did, continuing to conduct a real estate office until 1901, when he was appointed postmaster of Waukomis. In 1904 he was reappointed and still fills the position, discharging his duties with the same fidelity which he manifested when defending the stars and stripes.
     In 1883 occurred the marriage of Mr. Randolph and Miss Eva M. Barnum, a native of Canada, and they had one daughter, Hazel. In 1904 Mr. Randolph was again married and there was one son of this union, Theodore F., who was born February 6, 1905. Mr. Randolph belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and other societies. It is a well known fact that the closest comradeship and good friendship existed between the Rough Riders and their leader, and Mr. Randoplh [Randolph] is still on good terms with President Roosevelt, from whom he occasionally receives a letter. His appointment as postmaster was signed by his former colonel who, while never partial in his bestowment of official honors yet delights in thus recognizing one who was numbered among his faithful followers as he toiled up San Juan hill to plant the stars and stripes on its crest.

-412-
cont.

DR. RALPH A. BROWN, whose ability as a practitioner of medicine and surgery is indicated by the liberal patronage accorded him, was born in Ohio, April 6, 18513. His father, George P. Brown, was a native of the same state and removed to Indiana in 1861. Soon afterward he espoused the cause of the Union and joined the army as a defender of the stars and stripes. Being a man of education, he was appointed to clerical serv-

-413-

ice while at the front. He continued a resident of Indiana until 1886, when he went to Illinois, settling in Bloomington, where he has for many years been a successful publisher along educational lines. He is now a publisher of the School and Home Educator, which has the largest circulation of any paper of its kind in the country. He has always been prominent in educational matters and is looked upon as an authority. In recognition of his ability his fellow townsmen have called him to various important offices. He was for a number of years superintendent of the public schools of Indianapolis and was also president of the State Normal School of Indiana. A man of broad scholarly attainments he has made constant progress in those lines demanding special intellectual activity and in his efforts to advance the standard of education he has done effective work. He wedded Miss Mary Seymour, a native of New York, and an own cousin of Hon. Horatio Seymour.
     Dr. Ralph A. Brown began his education as a public school student in Indianapolis at the usual age and passing through consecutive grades was in due course of time graduated from the Indianapolis high school. He then matriculated in Cornell University, where he won the degree of Bachelor of Science upon his graduation with the class of 1818. Determining upon the practice of medicine as a life work he took up study in that line and graduated in medicine from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor in 1880. He has since taken several postgraduate courses in Philadelphia, New York and Chicago and has attained a high degree of proficiency through his experience, investigation and research.
     Dr. Brown located for practice in Indianapolis, where he remained for five years and in 1886 removed to South Haven, Kansas. In 1893 he came to Garfield county and for six years thereafter divided his attention between farming and professional service. He proved up his farm and in 1900 took up his abode at Waukomis. In addition to an extensive practice he derives a good income from several farms which he owns in Garfield and Kingfisher counties, having altogether about five hundred acres of land.
In 1885 Dr. Brown was married to Miss Cora Smith, a native of Illinois, and they have one son, Ralph. Mrs. Brown is prominently known socially and has been state secretary of the Order of Rebekahs for five years. Her labors in lodge work have been, very effective in promoting the work of the order and she is also a vocalist and pianist of more than local repute. In her own home she is a charming hostess, presiding with gracious hospitality at many delightful social functions. Dr. Brown is connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Woodmen and various other social organizations. He is likewise connected with medical societies, whereby he keeps in touch with the profession in its onward march and in community affairs he is deeply interested; particularly in the cause of education, in which connection he has rendered able service as a member of the school board.

-413-
cont.

W. E. WORDEN is one of the distinguished citizens of Waukomis, where as a banker and merchant he has been widely known for a number of years. He was born in Alleghany county, New York, September 1, 1861. His father, John P. Worden, was a native of the same locality and a representative of one of the early colonial families of Rhode Island. He died in the Empire state in March, 1908, at the advanced age of eighty-one years. At the time of the gold excitement in California he went to the Pacific coast and spent six years there. Most of his life, however, has been devoted to farming and stock-raising and in all his business affairs he has been found thoroughly trustworthy and reliable. He has been locally prominent in political circles as a supporter of Republican principles and has served as sheriff of the county. In early manhood he married Susan Barber, also a native of Alleghany county.
     W. E. Worden was a student in the district schools near his father's home in early youth and afterward attended Friendship Academy. On attaining his majority he started out in life on his own account and thinking the great west offered better opportunities he made his way to Dakota, spending one year on a ranch. He then studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1885. He afterward became connected with the Deering Harvester Company and looked after their legal interests in Dakota and in Minnesota. In 1889 he removed to Duluth in the latter state and became one of the incorporators of the Stock Exchange there. He was also one of its directors until 1892, when he made his way to Texas, continuing a resident of the southwest to the present time. In 1893 he removed to Waukomis as

-414-

soon as the property was placed upon the market. He had charge of the sale and then purchased what was left. Here he established the first drug store, conducting it successfully for three and a half years, when he entered the field of banking and in 1900 organized the Western State Bank. He was cashier and afterward president of this institution, continuing a factor in its management until 1906, when it was sold and absorbed in the First National Bank. Since his retirement from banking business he has conducted farming interests and a loan business and is well known in the community as a man of keen discernment and unfaltering enterprise, whose business interests have been an element in the substantial upbuilding of this section of the state.
     In 1903 Mr. Worden was married to Miss Grace Barnard, a native of Conway Springs, Kansas, and they have three children: Weldon, who was born March 21, 1904; Gretchen, born October 24, 1905; and Warren, August 30, 1907. Thoroughly in sympathy with the principles and purposes of the Masonic fraternity Mr. Worden belongs to the lodge at Waukomis, the chapter at Enid and the consistory at Guthrie. His political allegiance is given to the Democracy and he was a delegate from this state to the national convention in 1904. He has served on the school board and is interested in community affairs, giving active aid to many progressive measures. He lives in a beautiful home, attractive in its style of architecture and equipped with all modern conveniences, its attractive arrangement and furnishings indicating the cultured taste of the owner. Mr. Worden is recognized as one of the substantial and highly respected .men of the county and his efforts have contributed to success in private life and to the public stability.

-414-
cont.

E. E. CRESSLER, coming to Okeene in the early stages of its development and upbuilding has been continuously identified with its interests and belongs to that class of representative American men who in promoting individual success also advance the general welfare. He was born in Scott county, Iowa, on a farm near Davenport, on the 17th of December, 1865, and was educated in the public schools of that state. After putting aside his text-books, he there engaged in the lumber and grain business and was also connected with banking interests as a stockholder. Following his removal to .the southwest he recognized the opportunity for the establishment of a banking institution at Okeene and here with other parties organized the First National Bank, of which he was cashier for some time. Later he sold out and organized the Farmers and Merchants Bank at Okeene, of which he has since served as the cashier. It has become recognized as a solid financial institution of this part of the state, worthy of a liberal patronage, and its success is attributable in large measure to Mr. Cressler. He arrived in the town before the railroad was built and was a factor, instrumental in promoting the interests of Okeene in securing the construction of both railroads through the city by voting to give them together the sum of fifty thousand dollars.
     On the 19th of April, 1892, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Cressler and Miss Elsie M. Lucraft, a daughter of Joseph Lucraft of Iowa. The marriage was celebrated on the same hour and day that the Cheyenne and Arapaho country was opened for settlement. They now have one child, Elma E.
     In his political views Mr. Cressler is a Republican but has never aspired to office. He aids, however, in matters of citizenship to the extent of giving hearty cooperation and support to many movements for the benefit of the community. He possesses that enterprising nature which enables him to see and utilize an opportunity and knows that success depends upon the individual and not upon circumstances. Thus he has labored persistently and energetically and is making gradual advancement toward the goal of prosperity.

-414-
cont.

THEODORE GRAALMAN. Blaine county is signally favored in the class of men who are occupying its offices and administering its public interests. To this class belongs Theodore Graalman, who is now serving as register of deeds, having been chosen to the position by popular suffrage on the 16th of November, 1907. He is a young man alert and enterprising. His birth occurred in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, in 1881, his parents being Edward and Emma (Ring) Graalman, who, removing westward, became pioneer residents of Missouri in 1885. There they continued for seven years and in 1893 removed to Blaine county, settling on a claim which has since been their home, the father devoting his time and energies to agricultural interests and missionary work in the Baptist

-415-

cause and thus contributing to the material welfare of the community in which he lives.
Theodore Graalman accompanied his parents on their removal to the west, spent his boyhood days under the parental roof and completed his education by study in the high school at Kingfisher. Lessons of industry and integrity were impressed upon his mind through parental instruction and influence and he continued in active connection with farming pursuits until called to public office. Since attaining his majority he has given stalwart support to the Republican party, being thoroughly in sympathy with its purposes and policy. It was as candidate of that party that he made the race for register of deeds in the fall of 1907 and is now filling the position. The work of the office he has carefully systematized and in the discharge of all duties is prompt and accurate. Prominent in Masonic circles, he attained the thirty-second degree of the Scottish rite as a member of the Consistory at Guthrie.

-415-
cont.

JOHN M. TYLER, serving for the second term as county clerk of Blaine county, was born in Fulton county, Illinois, in 1870. In early life he was left an orphan and from the age of twelve years has been dependent entirely, upon his own resources. He is therefore a truly self-made man and one whose close application to business, firm purpose and untiring energy constitute the measure of success which he is enjoying. He was a youth of seventeen years when he made his way westward to Kansas and in the Sunflower state was identified with farming and ranching for a considerable period, working wherever he could find employment in those lines in Kansas, Colorado and Oklahoma. In 1893 he entered the Indian service, with which he was connected for seven years. His life has always been one of intense and well directed activity and in positions of public responsibility he has ever proven himself loyal to the trust reposed in him. His fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth, ability and progressive spirit, selected him for the office of county clerk of Blaine county in 1904, and after two years spent in that position he received public endorsement of the manner in which he discharged his duties through a reelection for a second term.
     Mr. Tyler was married in 1893 to Miss Nellie Matlock, a native of Harvey county, Kansas, in which locality her father was well known as a prosperous and enterprising farmer. The marriage has been blessed with two sons, Claud M. and George M. The family occupy a home in Watonga and in addition to this Mr. Tyler owns other property, having made judicious investment in real estate as his financial resources have permitted. He is a welcome member at the meetings of the Masonic lodge of this place and of the Knights of Pythias, serving at the present time as clerk of the latter. His political allegience [allegiance] has always been unfalteringly given to the Republican party, and keeping well informed on the questions and issues of the day, he is enabled to discuss intelligently those political points which are of general interest. Community affairs awaken his endorsement and he gives loyal support to every movement which he deems will prove of benefit to town or county. He is closely associated with the work of upbuilding in the "new west" and is leaving the impress of his individuality upon the welfare and progress of one of the best counties in this, the youngest state of the Union.

-415-
cont.

A. L. EDGINGTON, M. D. Blaine county is yet in its formative period and it is particularly fortunate that a class of enterprising, progressive and reliable men have become its citizens, with the object of building up the new state along substantial lines, while at the same time promoting their individual interests. Dr. Edgington is one of the first physicians of Watonga and is doing excellent work through his professional. labors, for which he was well qualified by thorough preliminary preparation. He is numbered among the native sons of Illinois, his birth having occurred in Galesburg, that state, in January, 1873. His early public school course was supplemented by study in McPherson Normal College of Kansas and then determining upon the practice of medicine as a life work he matriculated in Hahnemann Medical College, at Chicago, where he completed his studies with the class of 1893.
     Dr. Edgington sought as a favorable field for professional labor the new but rapidly developing territory of Oklahoma. He located first at Cantonment, where he practiced among the Indians for two years. He became one of the first practitioners of medicine and surgery at Watonga and has here secured a large practice which has reached profitable proportions and makes constant demands upon his time and energies. He

-416-

is continually broadening his knowledge by further reading and research and has shown himself fully qualified to cope with the intricate and complex problems that continually confront the physician in his efforts to restore health and check the ravages of disease. His wife owns and manages a drug store in Watonga and the Doctor has his office in connection therewith. He is a member of the State Medical Society and by his close adherence to a high standard of professional ethics commands the full confidence and regard of his fellow practitioners.
     Dr. Edgington was married in 1899 to Miss Myra E. Sweet, a lady of attractive social qualities as well as business ability. In his political views Dr. Edgington is a stalwart Republican but while he keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day and is able to support his position by intelligent argument, he has never sought nor desired office. He has been quite successful in his chosen field of labor and owns town property in Watonga. He is an interested witness of the growth and development of the state and was present at Guthrie at its first opening. In Blaine county he is taking an active and helpful part in the work of upbuilding and Watonga numbers him among its valued residents.

-416-
cont.

JOHN H. DILLON. Honored and respected by all, there is no man in Geary who occupies a more enviable position in its business and financial circles than John H. Dillon, not alone on account of the success he has attained but also by reason of the honorable, straightforward business policy he has ever followed. He possesses untiring energy, is quick of perception, forms his plans readily and is determined in their execution. Such qualities are essential factors in the substantial upbuilding of a new country and Mr. Dillon is well termed a valuable acquisition to the citizenship of Geary. He was born in Lawrence county, Ohio, June 12, 1859, and his boyhood and youth passed without event of special importance. He acquired a good public-school education and with laudable ambition to enjoy the opportunities of the west and assist in its upbuilding, he made his way to Trinidad, Colorado, in 1885 and there engaged in general merchandising. When the run was made at Kingfisher in 1889 he was among those who participated. It was a picturesque period in the history of Oklahoma's development, bringing experiences that could be met with in no other way, when thousands of determined men and women waited the signal that would give them opportunity to secure by dint of perseverence [perseverance] and enterprise the right to some of the rich lands that would be opened up. He also took part in the race at Watonga in 1892 and located property there. He became closely associated with the upbuilding of the town and was appointed postmaster, in which position he served until he resigned during the administration of President Cleveland. Upon the building of the railroad to Geary he removed to this place, purchased the town site and afterward sold it. Indeed he was the founder of the town, which will always stand as a monument to the enterprise, advanced ideas and business capacity of its original builder: He opened what is now the First National Bank which originally conducted the institution under the name of the Bank of Geary. Business was begun on the 6th of May, 1897, and Mr. Dillon has since been at the head of the institution, of which he is now the president, while his son, O. V. Dillon, is cashier, having entered upon this position at the age of seventeen years. The vice president is Willard Johnston and the officers together with Robert Reed and C. M. Cade constitute the board of directors. The bank is capitalized for twenty-five thousand dollars and has a surplus of twenty-eight hundred dollars. A general banking business is conducted and the bank thus far in its existence has a most creditable showing.
     Aside from his financial interests Mr. Dillon is connected with other business concerns. He now owns an extensive and valuable ranch of seven hundred and twenty acres in Canadian county near Geary, on which he is extensively engaged in feeding cattle and hogs. Mr. Dillon belongs to several fraternal organizations, including the Knights of Pythias, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, while his son is a thirty-second degree Mason. In politics Mr. Dillon is actively interested, doing all in his power to promote the growth and insure the success of the Republican party, for he regards the principles of its platform as most conducive to good government. For two terms he served as treasurer of his county but he feels that his business affairs make heavy demands upon his time and en-

-417-

ergies and thus he prefers to leave office holding to others. However, he stands stanchly in, support of every movement for the public good and gives his aid and influence toward the upbuilding of Geary along the most progressive lines of the twentieth century city. He married Miss Josie Mount, in Ohio, in 1882, and they have six children: O. V.; Mary and Merrill (twins); Ves,; Agnes, and Hobert.

-417-
cont.

L. A. HOLMES dates his residence in Oklahoma since 1901, since which time he has been engaged in the jewelry business in Geary. He has a well appointed establishment, neatly and tastefully arranged and is enjoying a liberal patronage, whereby he has gained a place among the substantial merchants of his adopted city. His entire life has been passed west of the Mississippi. He was born in Brooklyn, Iowa, on the 23d of September, 1872, and at the usual age he began his education in the public schools there, passing through consecutive grades as he mastered the different branches of learning that constitute the curriculum. He also pursued a course in a commercial college at Des Moines, Iowa, and after its completion in 1893, he engaged in business in the capital city as a wholesale commission merchant, dealing in hay and straw. For two years he continued in that line of activity in Des Moines and then accepted official service as chief clerk under Secretary of State McFarland, of Iowa. For six and a half years he acceptably discharged the duties of the position and then attracted by the opportunities of the growing southwest came to Oklahoma and in the newly established town of Geary opened a jewelry store, which he has since carried on. He now has a fine line of goods and draws a gratifying patronage from the city and surrounding country.
     Mr. Holmes was married to Miss Frances L. Cook, and they are well known socially here, having many warm friends. Mr. Holmes is identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, while his political support is unfalteringly given to the Republican party and upon its ticket he was elected and served for four years as city clerk. His devotion to the public good is unquestioned and arises from a sincere interest in the welfare of his fellowmen, while his career in commercial circles has ever been such as to warrant the trust and confidence of the business world, for he has ever conducted all transactions on the strictest principles of honor and integrity.

-417-
cont.

T. J. BALLEW. The rapid growth and substantial improvement of the towns and cities of Oklahoma constitute one of the wonders of the age and yet after all the result is but the logical conclusion of previous causes, for the great majority of citizens who have come to this district have been people of enterprise and ambition, who, having enjoyed opportunities in the older districts of the country, have brought with them progressive ideas which they have embodied in the building of the towns in this newly created state. To this class of men belongs T. J. Ballew, the cashier of the Bank of Commerce at Geary. His birth occurred in Kentucky, September 20, 1873, and his education was acquired at the State Normal School at Emporia, Kansas. Subsequently he attended the Gem City Business College at Quincy, Illinois, and thus well equipped by mental discipline for the responsible and practical duties of a business career, he made his way to Watonga, where he served for one year as city superintendent of schools. He was afterward elected to the office of county superintendent in which position he remained for two years, when he resigned to accept the cashiership of the First National Bank of Geary in 1892. It was a newly organized institution and he slept the first night in the bank without windows or doors. With ready adaptability he took up the duties that now devolved upon him and capably discharged them until 1893, when he resigned, having been elected to represent the district of the seventh assembly of the territorial legislature. While in office he gave careful consideration to every question that came up for settlement connected with the interests of the territory and its development and in all his support of or opposition to measures was actuated by a spirit of unfaltering devotion to the public good.
     Following his return from the legislature Mr. Ballew purchased a controlling interest in the Bank of Geary and one year later consolidated it with the Bank of Commerce, since which time he has remained as cashier of the latter institution. The other officers are: J. A. Smith, president; W. H. Hall, vice-president; and Cecil A. Smith, assistant cashier. A general banking business is now being successfully conducted and the prosperity of the business is attributable in no small degree to the efforts of the cashier,

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who is always a courteous and obliging official, while at the same time he carefully conserves the interests of the institution.
    Mr. Ballew was married in 1897 to Miss Grace Cutter, and they have one son, William A. Theirs is a pleasant and attractive home, justly noted for its hospitality and in addition to his residence Mr. Ballew also owns other property here. His fraternal relations are with the Knights of Pythias and with the Masons. He votes with the Republican party, is acknowledged one of its leaders in Blaine county and at the present time is serving as a member of the old state executive committee. His life record demonstrates the truth of the saying that success is not the result of genius but is the outcome of clear judgment, experience and unwearied industry.

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cont.

J. S. KREHBIEL, devoting his life to the proclamation of the gospel as a minister of the Mennonite church, of which he was the organizer, is doing effective work among the people here, and such is his life in its fidelity to principle, in its kindliness and its sympathy, that he is one of the most highly esteemed and popular residents .of the community. He was born in St. Clair county, Illinois, just across the river from St. Louis, Missouri, on the 7th of May, 1864. His father was the Rev. Christian Krehbiel, who devoted his life to the active work of the ministry and did much for the moral development of the communities in which he lived. The son pursued his education in the public schools of Illinois and Kansas, accompanying his parents on their removal to the latter state. He was reared to farm life and was associated with the general agricultural interests in Kansas until his removal to Oklahoma in 1892. In that year he made the race for a claim, which he located, and is today the owner of five eighty acre tracts of land, all lying in Blaine county. This is excellent property, which is constantly increasing in value as the country becomes more thickly settled and the land is improved. In 1899 Mr. Krehbiel removed to Geary, purchased property, built a residence here and has since made the city his home.
     For five years Mr. Krehbiel was engaged in Indian missionary work, in which connection he became widely known because of the effectiveness of his labor and his zeal and devotion to the cause. He is a most earnest Christian man, actuated in all that he does by high and honorable principles in harmony with his professions. He organized the Mennonite church at Geary, which was first located in the country near by but later was removed to the town and has since been remodeled and improved. The first meeting of a congregation of this character was held in the loft of the barn upon Mr. Krehbiel's claim. He has improved his opportunities for proclaiming the gospel and aiding in the moral progress of this part of the state, preaching as opportunity has offered at schoolhouses and holding union meetings both in English and German for several years. No one was denied the privilege of worshiping with the congregation whether of the same belief or of other views but at length churches of other denominations were strong enough to hold their own meetings and build for themselves church edifices.
In 1889 Mr. Krehbiel was united in the holy bonds of matrimony to Miss Katie Ringelman, a daughter of George and Louise Ringelman, natives of Pennsylvania, where they spent the greater part of their lives, although they came to the west about ten years ago. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Krehbiel has been born one son, Adolph.
     In his political views Mr. Krehbiel is a Republican and as every true American citizen should do keeps well informed on the questions and issues of the day but the honors and emoluments of office have had no attraction for him. He stands high in the community and such are his salient characteristics that he is liked by everybody. His labors in behalf of Christianity have been of no restricted order. He has not been denied the full harvest nor the aftermath and the seeds of good which he has sowed are bearing fruit in the lives of those with whom he comes in contact. He was the first minister of Geary and one of the first in this section of the country. Some of his early experiences were very unique. On one occasion he was called upon to marry a couple who lived in a sod house that was so small that he could not stand up straight in it, so that the service was performed on the outside. In a new community where there is much to be done the religious development of the people is often neglected for the pressure of other interests leave but little leisure time. Mr. Krehbiel, however, coming to Geary in the days of its early pioneer development has gathered the people together in [page 419] a strong and growing organization in which he teaches them the Bible truths, leading them on to a higher, fuller life.

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CHARLES E. ROGERS. From all parts of the country there have come into Oklahoma men of enterprise and determination who have recognized the opportunities that have offered in this new but rapidly developing district and have contributed to the general progress and prosperity, while advancing their individual interests. To this class belongs Charles E. Rogers, who was born in Bell county, Texas, June 25, 1881. His parents were Dr. W. N. and Jennie (Whitenton) Rogers, the former a practicing physician at Belton, Texas, for many years but now deceased.
     No event of special importance occurred to vary the routine life for Charles E. Rogers in his boyhood and youth. He was educated in the common schools and in Agricultural and Mechanical College, at Bryan, Texas, and thus by liberal educational training became well fitted for life's practical duties. He entered the railroad service as an employe of the Chicago and Alton Railroad Company in the capacity of brakeman and soon won promotion to the position of conductor, serving in that way on the Rock Island Railroad. He was a courteous and obliging official and for five years continued in the railroad service. Coming to Geary he has since been identified with its mercantile interests and for three years has acted as a drug clerk. He will soon become a registered pharmacist and is now owner of the leading drug store in Geary. The store is well stocked with a large and complete line of drugs and druggist's sundries and its tasteful arrangement combined with his fair and honorable business dealings and earnest desire to please his customers have secured to Mr. Rogers a liberal patronage.
In his political views Mr. Rogers is an earnest Democrat, always voting with the party, and at the present writing he is serving as city treasurer, the duties of which office he discharges with promptness and fidelity. He is also a member of the Masonic lodge at Geary and is interested in everything pertaining to the welfare and progress of the community.

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cont.

H. N. BOARDMAN. The county attorney of Blaine county, by election in the fall of 1907, is H. N. Boardman, a lawyer of prominence in Western Oklahoma. For five years he was located in practice at Okeene, where he attended to a profitable general practice and also represented the legal interests of the Boardman Land Company, the First National Bank of Okeene, the Independence Gypsum Co. of Southard, Oklahoma, the Okeene Roller Mill Co. and the town of Okeene. Since election to his present office he has transferred his residence and office to the county seat at Watonga. While at Okeene his law office was burned, and he lost a law library worth $2,500 with no insurance. He is vice president of the Okeene Roller Mills Company, and the First National Bank of Okeene, and is the legal representative of the Royal Union Life Insurance Company.
     Mr. Boardman was born in Jones county, Iowa, December 17, 1875, son of H. C. and Emma T. (Jacobsen) Boardman. His father, a native of Vermont, moved out to Iowa at an early day, and was a state senator for a number of years. He was first cousin of Leslie M. Shaw, ex-secretary of the treasurer. In Iowa he built up an egg and butter business, and it was in extending this business that he became interested in Oklahoma. In a short time the Oklahoma branch had grown larger than the main establishment in Iowa, and in 1901 he moved his family and transferred his business interests to Okeene. Here he organized the Boardman Land Company, with a capital of $25,000, and the First National Bank of Okeene with a capital of $25,000. At the last meeting of the board of directors of the Boardman Land & Loan Company the report of their business since organization showed a total of loans amounting to three million dollars. C. D. Boardman, a brother of H. N., is at present state statistician, having been appointed by Secretary Wilson. He also resides at Okeene.
     Mr. H. N. Boardman was educated at the Iowa State College at Ames and the University of Iowa at Iowa City, and was admitted to the bar the same year of his graduation. He began practice at Nevada, Iowa, but soon located at Garner, where he was in the office of A. C. Ripley, attorney for the Milwaukee Railroad. Two years later he came to Oklahoma and has since been actively identified with practice in this territory and state. He is a Republican, and has taken considerable part in politics. Fraternally he is a member of the Knights of Pythias at Okeene, the Elks at Enid, and a member of the Masonic Order at Wa- [page 420] tonga, Oklahoma. He was married in 1900 to Susan E. Dakin, daughter of M. C. Dakin, a state senator of Iowa.

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E. J. WARNER. The first district clerk of Blaine county under statehood, elected in September, 1907, is E. J. Warner. Mr. Warner has been a resident of Blaine county for the past seven years, and first became identified with the county as a railroad man. Born in Russell county, Kansas, June 11, 1877, he began his career in railroad offices of the Santa Fe Railroad, being employed in the general offices at Topeka, and while in the employ of the Choctaw Railroad came to Geary, Oklahoma. While here he abandoned the railroad and engaged in the grocery business and later the real estate business. Having made many friends and proved his worth, it was comparatively an easy matter to obtain election to the office of district clerk when he presented himself to the citizens for that purpose. In politics he is a Republican.

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cont.

THOMPSON B. FERGUSON. From December 2, 1901, to January 15, 1906, the governor of Oklahoma Territory was Thompson B. Ferguson, of Watonga. Aside from his political activity, his career in Oklahoma has been chiefly notable as publisher and proprietor of the Watonga Republican since 1892. There are a number of Oklahoma newspaper men who might be called leaders of action and opinion, more so than in most states, and from this class Governor Ferguson was called to serve as chief executive of the Territory. He has been active in Republican politics since coming to Oklahoma. He was a member of the Republican territorial committee of Oklahoma from December, 1892, to June, 1902, and was chairman of the committee from August, 1900. Governor Ferguson believed in and exhibited practically his faith in clean politics and decency in civic affairs.
     Thompson B. Ferguson was born near Des Moines, Iowa, March 17, 1858, son of Abner and Hannah Ferguson. The family were Iowa pioneers, living in northwestern Iowa in 1858 about the time of the Storm Lake massacre, during which they had some exciting experiences. The father was a farmer, and the ancestry was highland Scotch. In the Normal School at Emporia, Kansas, Mr. Ferguson gained most of his literary education. During his school career he showed special fondness and aptitude for athletics, baseball particularly. Among books and studies he has usually chosen and pursued those of- a historical nature. Being without money at the close of his schooling, he began teaching, and followed that calling for several years in Kansas. Mr. Ferguson was taken to Kansas when one year old, living at Emporia until 1867, in Labette county several years, and from 1870 until 1892 in Chautauqua county. He has been a successful publisher, and the Watonga Republican is one of the most influential journals of western Oklahoma. Mr. Ferguson is a practical man of every-day affairs, and is direct and simple in all phases of his life. While governor he carried this characteristic into office with him, and while energetic in carrying out the program of official duties he had little taste and participated little in the social functions of the capital. His dislike for dress coats is well known. The accusation was made that he always had "headache" during the progress of social affairs, but recovered with remarkable ease when the necessity for his attendance was past. This accusation was not well founded. Though a believer in the Christian religion he is not affiliated with any church. He was married at Wauneta, Kansas, June 9, 1885, to Elva U. Shartel. The children born of their marriage are: Walter Scott, born March 28, 1886; Rowena, March, 1888; Norma, September 24, 1889; Tom S., May 3, 1891; Elfa, September 28, 1896. Only Walter and Tom S. are living, the others dying in infancy.

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cont.

J. L. FRENCH. The present county treasurer of Blaine county is J. L. French, who was first elected to the office during the territorial regime in 1905 and has been recently re-elected under statehood. Mr. French is a citizen upon whom the honor and responsibility of this office are well bestowed. He has lived in this part of Oklahoma since it was opened to settlement in 1892, and as a substantial farmer has made himself one of the leading citizens.
     He was born in Scotland on February 6, 1845, and came to Canada in 1855. His father was Thomas, who died in Scotland. From Canada to Iowa, where he farmed, and thence in 1892 to Oklahoma, comprises the principal changes in Mr. French's life. He still owns a fine farm of four hundred and eighty acres in Dixon township, Blaine county, but leases it to a tenant. Mr. French has usually been more or less interested in politics in the various localities where has been [page 421] his home. For four years he was assessor of Blaine county. During early manhood he enlisted in Company F, Twenty-fourth Michigan Infantry, at Detroit, and served from January, 1863, to the close of the war of the rebellion. Mr. French was married in 1868, and has eight children: Mary, Margaret, W. B., Ella M., Agnes J., John L., Thomas R., Sadie.