Charles W. Gunther

CHARLES W. GUNTHER, This gentleman has been engaged in the horseshoeing and blacksmithing business for a number of years, and has been located at Parsons, Kansas. He was born in Morris county, New Jersey, in 1865, and is a son of John H. and Elizabeth (Smith) Gunther.

John H. Gunther, his father, was a native of Germany, and was a woodworker by trade. He married Elizabeth Smith, who was born in New Jersey, and they reared: George; Smith J.; Charles W.; Harry; Lizzie; Margaret; Fred; and Edward.

Charles W. Gunther lived in New Jersey until he reached the age of nineteen years. There lie learned the trade of a blacksmith and horseshoer. He left New Jersey in 1885, going west, and locating in Parsons, Kansas. He worked a year and a half for Mr. Tyler, who owned a blacksmith shop at that time. In 1887 Mr. Gunther bought out Mr. Tyler's business, and his shop is now on Washington avenue. He is a very good workman, having a thorough knowledge of his business, and employs competent men to assist him. Mr. Gunther bought his home, which is in the southeast quarter of section 23, Walton township, southwest of Parsons. He built a comfortable, seven-room house in 1895. Mr. Gunther was united in marriage with Alice Duval, who was born in Virginia, in 1870, and they have been blessed with three children, namely: Claude S.; Bessie M.; and Leslie A.

Mr. Gunther is a stanch member of the Democratic party, and takes all active interest in local politics. Both he and his wife are members of the Baptist church. They have a wide circle of friends, and are highly respected by all.