Missouri Genealogy

The Platte Purchase, formerly an Indian Reservation until its transformation in 1836, was vital for early settlers in Northwestern Missouri. Andrew County, established in 1841, saw rapid immigration following the establishment of new counties. Rail connectivity drove local demands for the creation of numerous townships and towns such as Amazonia, Fillmore, and Rochester. Despite early promise, some towns, like Nodaway City, faced decline due to changing transportation dynamics. Andrew County’s history is marked by evolving town structures, with notable early businesses and community formations ultimately shaping the region through the late 19th century.

Adair County, located in Missouri, is bordered by several counties and has a total area of 567 square miles. Established settlements began in 1828, notably “The Cabins,” formed by early pioneers. Historical tensions arose in 1835 as both Iowa and Missouri contested boundary definitions, nearly sparking conflict until a peace negotiation was initiated. Adair County was formally organized in 1841, previously part of Macon County. The area saw the establishment of various towns and post-offices over the years, with Kirksville becoming the county seat. Numerous historical sites, including mills and schools, contributed to the county’s development and community life.

Rial Creason was born on March 3, 1835, in Ray County, Missouri, to William and Mary Creason. His family, originally from Kentucky and Tennessee, settled in Missouri early on, living in a block house for protection against Native Americans. On August 31, 1854, Rial married Mary D. Hall, born March 29, 1839, in Ray County. They had thirteen children, nine of whom survived into adulthood. Rial served seven years as justice of the peace, owned 600 acres of prime land, and was active in local organizations such as Albany Grange No. 520 and Ada Lodge No. 444.

William Marshall Young, born in 1845 in Dade County, Mo., is a successful farmer in Center Township. Son of Isom A. and Mary M. (McLemore) Young, and grandson of Matthew M. and Elizabeth (Neal) Young, William married Dialtha McClure in 1870. They had seven children: Martha L., Viola M., Frank J., Ruthy F., Marshall A., Mathew Boyd, and Lucy V. Young owns a 65-acre farm and 391 acres on Sac River, focusing on agriculture and stock-raising. He is a Democrat and his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South.

Rev. David G. Young, born in Niagara County, N.Y., in 1829, and orphaned young, was raised by his uncle in Michigan. He married Margaret Pratt in 1855, who died a year later, and then Amanda E. Roberts in 1861, with whom he had nine children. Young served in the Civil War, was captured, and held in several prisons. Post-war, he was a teacher and county superintendent of schools in Illinois before moving to Dade County, Mo., where he served as circuit clerk and ex-officio recorder for eight years. An active Baptist minister, he founded multiple churches and owned 200 acres…

George W. Wells, born in Monongalia County, W.Va., in 1839, was a notable figure in Washington Township, recognized for his roles as a judge, farmer, and stock-raiser. Son of Benjamin L. and Sophia (Kughn) Wells, he was raised by relatives following his parents’ early deaths. A Civil War veteran, Wells served nearly four years, reaching the rank of captain. Post-war, he settled in Dade County, Mo., married Letitia Poage, and had six children. Elected county judge in 1876 and presiding judge in 1878, he was also active in local education and community development. A dedicated Republican, Wells voted for Abraham…