John J. Baker

JOHN J. BAKER. - Distinguished as a native born citizen of Bonner Springs and as one of its energetic and prosperous business men, John J. Baker is well worthy of special mention in a work of this character. He was born May 12, 1886, and comes of pioneer stock, his father, the late Hervey J. Baker, having settled in this part of Kansas as early as 1869.

Hervey J. Baker was born, bred and educated in Wisconsin, being a son of John Baker, who served in the Civil war as a member of the Nineteenth Michigan Infantry. Subsequently coming to Kansas, he located first in Leavenworth county, and from that time until his death, in 1903, was engaged in general farming. He married Louisa M. Armstrong, who is now living in Bonner Springs with her son, John J. Three children were born of their union, namely: Orpha, wife of Thomas Jackson, of Bonner Springs; Nannie D., a teacher in the public schools; and John J.

John J. Baker was reared on a farm and attended school in Bonner Springs, acquiring a practical education. In 1909 he embarked in mercantile pursuits, and is now one of the leading furniture dealers of the city, his store being amply supplied with a complete assortment of the most modern styles of furniture. As a merchant Mr. Baker is meeting with genuine success, his patronage being extensive and highly remunerative. Fraternally he belongs to the Ancient, Free and Accepted Order of Masons, and is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, in which he holds the position of noble grand. He is prominent in municipal affairs, and is now serving as a councilman.

Mr. Baker married, November 20, 1907, Edna Langston, whose parents are residents of Bonner Springs, and they are parents of two children, namely: Elizabeth Louise and Robert Armstrong.