F. M. Massa

F. M. MASSA. This gentleman has been prominent in agricultural circles in Labette county, Kansas, since 1872. He resides on the east half of the southeast quarter of section 13, in Elm Grove township, and was born in Illinois, in 1837. He is a son of James Massa.

James Massa was born in Tennessee, and followed the occupation of a farmer all his life. He married Margaret Pryor, who was also a native of Tennessee, and they reared nine, children, three of whom are now living, namely: Thomas; F. M., the subject of this sketch; and Polly Ann.

F. M. Massa was reared in Illinois, where he attended the common schools of his native county, and later assisted his father in farming. He remained in that state until 1872, when he removed to Kansas. In the fall of that year, he bought the east half of the southeast quarter of section 13, township 34, range 19, and has lived there since that time. He built a cabin, 16 feet square, and later added a shed to it, for a kitchen. Since that time he has made extensive improvements, and in 1877 entered his claim at Independence, Kansas. His present house was built in 1885. Mr. Massa made the trip from Illinois to Kansas by wagon, the journey taking eighteen days. He is a self-made man, and his success is due entirely to his own efforts. Mr. Massa has worked unceasingly, and with untiring energy, and he has one of the best farms in the township.

Mr. Massa married Polly Sharp, who was born in Illinois, in 1840. They have reared four children: Mollie; Chloe; George; and Oscar. Mr. Massa has always been a member of the Democratic party, and has taken an active interest in local politics. He has served on the school board one term. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.