Henry L. Rich

HENRY L. RICH, an energetic and progressive young farmer of Walton township, Labette county, Kansas, is one of the most prominent men in his community. He is a son of Thomas J. and Jane L. (Demorest) Rich, and was born in McLean county, Illinois, in 1863.

His father was born in Massachusetts, April 7, 1807. His mother was born in Columbus, Ohio, February 15, 1822. At an early age Thomas J. Rich learned the carpenter's trade and spent many years in pursuing that occupation. The latter part of his life, however, was devoted to agricultural pursuits upon the farm now occupied by his son, Henry L. Upon this farm, which is the northeast quarter of section 5, Walton township, his last days were spent, and he passed to the life beyond in 1875. His wife died about five years previous to his demise. She was a native of Logansport, Indiana. They reared 11 children. All are deceased, with the exception of Henry L., who is the youngest of the family, and his brother George, who was the eighth in succession of birth. The other children were: Sarah A.; Smith; Martha; Jane; Thomas J.; Viola; Vilroy; Charles S. and Amozina.

Henry L. Rich accompanied his parents to Kansas in 1870, when but seven years of age. Principally through his own efforts in applying himself diligently to his books, he obtained a good practical education. Thus he was well equipped for the active and uniformly successful career he has subsequently enjoyed. Having been reared on a farm, it was but natural that he should adopt that calling as his life work.

He was joined in marriage with Lizzie F. Murray, who was born in Maryland, in 1867. Six children blessed their union, namely: Mamie; Mabel; Fay; Iva; Nellie; and Stanley. Mamie, Fay and Stanley axe deceased. The family are devout members of the Dunkard church, and are charitably inclined.

Like his father, Mr. Rich firmly adheres to the principles of Democracy. He carries on general farming and devotes especial attention to stock raising, - breeding some very fine cattle, hogs and horses. Few men of his age hold so prominent a place in the public estimation. His friends, pronounce his success the manifest result of resolute purpose and unflagging industry, and predict a bright future for him.