George T. Finch

GEORGE T. FINCH, a representative citizen of Osage township, Labette county, Kansas, has taken up the line of work laid down by a most honorable line of ancestors, and is most ably performing the many duties that fall to the lot of the modern tiller of the soil who wishes to make a success of his vocation. Mr. Finch was born in the city of Rochester, New York, and spent his younger days in school after the usual manner of American youths, assisting meanwhile about the home farm. He is the youngest child, and the only son born to William and Clara Finch, respected and esteemed residents of the Empire State. His youngest sister's name is Maggie. His eldest sister, Mary, resides on the old homestead.

George T. Finch continued to work upon his father's farm until he was nineteen years of age; he then learned the molder's trade, which he followed until the fall of 1852, and since that time he has been engaged in farming. His marriage took place in 1861. Lena Banta became his wife, the ceremony being performed at the home of the bride, in Illinois. She lived thereafter but seven months, August 14, 1862, Mr. Finch enlisted as a private in the 77th, Reg. Ill. Vol. Inf., and served until the close of the war, being honorably discharged from the service July 10, 1865, at Mobile, Alabama.

Returning to his home in Illinois, he continued to reside there until the fall of 1870; he then came west, to Butler county, Kansas, where he purchased land and cultivated it for four years. Receiving a good offer for his farm, he sold out, and returned once more to the Prairie State, where he remained until 1888. But the West held out strong inducements to him and during that year he returned to Kansas to seek a new location. He found a very desirable spot in Labette county, and, later, located permanently upon the farm in Osage township, which is still his home. This farm is a part of section 23, township 31, range 18, and is now one of the most productive farms in Labette county. He carries on general farming and stock raising. His farm is well stocked, and is especially adapted to the raising of grain. He possesses a home of which any man might well be proud; his buildings are kept in perfect repair and it is the kind of an estate that would gladden the heart of any one who loves the free, hearty and independent life of an agriculturist. Mr. Finch's union with Lena Banta, who died January 12, 1862, resulted in one child, - Jacob L., who lives in Chicago. November 15, 1865, Mr. Finch again married, - this time wedding Jane Ruff, by whom he had two children who grew to maturity, - Henry and Mary. Mr. Finch's last marriage was consummated April 27, 1890, - Mrs. Esther Rudder, of Dennis, Kansas, being the bride.

Mr. Finch's church lines are laid with, the United Brethren denomination. In politics, he is one of the best known Republicans in his section. In business affairs he is clear-headed, shrewd and upright. He is a valued member of the G. A. R.