My Genealogy Hound

Capt. Henry Souders, one of the most prominent citizens of Crawford County, was born in Washington County, Ind., June 11, 1832, and is the second of the eleven children born to Christian and Rachel (Tash) Souders. Henry Souders was reared to the pursuit of agriculture, and, though in early life his educational advantages were limited, he is now looked upon as one of the best informed men of his community. In 1839 his parents immigrated to Missouri, and settled in Gasconade County, where the father entered eighty acres of land, and purchased forty more, upon which was erected a small cabin. In 1852 he (Henry) married Sarah A., daughter of Samuel S. Gibson. Seven children were born to this union, the eldest of whom became the wife of Thomas Taylor, and is now deceased. Those living are Mary E. (wife of J. Chewning), Samuel C., Emily Z. (who married A. H. Hamby), Henry Clay and Sarah A. (twins), and Nancy J. Before his marriage Mr. Souders entered forty acres of land, and purchased as many more, and upon this tract he settled and assiduously applied himself to farming. Industry and good management have added to his first purchase, and he now owns 640 acres of well cultivated land, one of the most desirable homesteads in the county, provided with modern conveniences, a roomy, comfortable residence, and four large barns. Mr. Souders also owns another farm of 160 acres, partly lying in Gasconade County. During the late war he served as captain in Company G, Thirty-fourth Regiment Enrolled State Militia, from Gasconade County. In 1887 Mr. Souders was deprived of his wife by death. She was interred in the Gibson graveyard of Crawford County. He next married, in 1877, Martha A., daughter of Isaac Kinkle, who died without issue January 30, 1887, having been a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. Capt. Souders is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and has held the office of justice of the peace for sixteen consecutive years. His political principles are those of the Republican party. His is one of the leading spirits of the county, and his superior judgment and advice are sought by many friends and admirers. He is well informed on the principal topics of the day, and is highly respected by all with whom he comes in contact.