My Genealogy Hound

Below is a family biography included in The History of Newton County, Missouri published by Goodspeed Publishing Company in 1888.  These biographies are valuable for genealogy research in discovering missing ancestors or filling in the details of a family tree. Family biographies often include far more information than can be found in a census record or obituary.  Details will vary with each biography but will often include the date and place of birth, parent names including mothers' maiden name, name of wife including maiden name, her parents' names, name of children (including spouses if married), former places of residence, occupation details, military service, church and social organization affiliations, and more.  There are often ancestry details included that cannot be found in any other type of genealogical record.

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John B. Cummins, clerk in the Neosho Savings Bank, was born in Ohio, July 5, 1858. His father, Hiram J., was born in Virginia, February 22, 1830, and his mother, whose maiden name was Catherine Kagy, was born in Ohio, January 25, 1837. They were married in 1855. The father lived in his native State until twenty-six years of age, and then settled in Seneca County, Ohio, where he was engaged in farming. In 1859 he moved to Marion County, Ill., and from there, in 1868; to Newton County, Mo., where he followed his chosen occupation, He was elected a justice of the peace in his township, and held this position for several years. In 1878 he was elected county collector, and in 1880 he was re-elected to the same position, and made a capable and efficient official. Mrs. Cummins died March 20, 1885, and Mr. Cummins May 18, 1886. Ten children were born to their marriage: John B., Annie E., Rachel M., Nancy L., Isaac K., Frank L., Orris O., Dewitt C., Elmer R. and Elizabeth C. John B., the eldest child, came with his parents to Newton County, and spent his early life on a farm. After his father was elected collector, he became his assistant in the office for four years, and afterward served as deputy under Mr. Armstrong for four years. He then accepted a position in the Neosho Savings Bank. He was married, December 7, 1884, to Miss Susan Hisaw, of Barry County, Mo.. and they have two children: Mamie C. and Elmer J.

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This family biography is one of 220 biographies included in The History of Newton County, Missouri published in 1888.  For the complete description, click here: Newton County, Missouri History, Genealogy, and Maps

To view additional Newton County, Missouri family biographies, click here

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