James Alexander Spilman, the treasurer of McPherson county, was born at Salina, June 8, 1869, a son of Alexander C. and Mary A. (Kennison) Spilman. (See sketch.) James A. Spilman received his elementary education in the public schools and then entered Lindsborg College, Lindsborg, Kan., where he graduated with the class of 1895. Mr. Spilman had always loved the country and after leaving college invested in a farm near Roxbury, which he conducted until 1906. He was thrifty, industrious, introduced modern methods and demonstrated that they paid. From first locating in the country Mr. Spilman took an active interest in local affairs and politics and, in 1906, was elected treasurer of McPherson county on the Republican ticket. He filled this important office so efficiently that in 1908 he was reëlected by a flattering majority. Mr. Spilman is a member of McPherson Lodge, No. 172, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons; Chapter, No. 48, Royal Arch Masons, and Garfield Commandery, No. 18, Knights Templars.

On June 20, 1904, Mr. Spilman married Minnie M., the daughter of Charles J. Sheffer of Roxbury, Kan., and two children have been born to the union: James Vivian, born Feb. 18, 1905, and Vernon Alexander, born Oct. 18, 1906. Mr. Spilman is held in high esteem by the citizens of McPherson county and is regarded as one of the substantial and prosperous men of the community. His name stands for integrity, uprightness and clean living. During his terms in public office he has gained the confidence of the people who demonstrated their feelings when they elected him to an office of trust a second time.