My Genealogy Hound

BURKE, ROBERT F., breeder of fine stock; Sec. 35; P. O. Keokuk Junction; was born at his place of residence, May 15, 1850, being the youngest child of Fleming and Sarah Burke, who emigrated to this county in the year 1833. He owns 370 acres of land, finely improved, and valued at $15,000. Mr. Burke is engaged in the breeding of short-horn cattle and Poland China hogs. In 1871-72, prior to going to Montana in 1876, it became necessary to dispose of his stock. After remaining west one year, he returned. His desire being so strong for fine stock, he could not refrain from engaging in that business once more. His Elm Leaf herd of short horns are very choice, being represented by the following popular families: Louans, White Rose, Young Mary’s, Young Phyllis, and others, including two imported cows, Primula (the dam of Kissinger’s famous Breastplate), and Roseleaf 5th. The herd is headed by the premium Young Phyllis bull Orange Noble, 30,469 A. H. B., bred by J. H. Kissinger & Co., Clarksville., Mo.; sired by imported Orange Boy, 30,468; dam Beauty Noble, bred by B. B. Groom, of Kentucky. Orange Noble has been exhibited at Atlanta, Logan county, Ill., Bloomington, Ill., Peoria, Ill., Illinois State Fair, at Freeport, Ill., Springfield, Ill., Adams county, Ill., Brown county. Ill., and Schuyler county fairs, carrying off, in almost every instance, the blue ribbon. He is a regular “Murphy.” In 1878, his cattle took first prize as best herd of any age or breed at Adams and Schuyler county fairs; also, second at Brown county fair. He also breeds Berkshire and Poland China swine. It is claimed that each breed excels the other. It is his desire to try both breeds, and give them an equal chance, and ascertain which is the best breed for farmers. He also breeds Cotswold sheep, eligible for entry in the American Cotswold record. The cattle are registered in A. H. B. The swine are recorded in the Berkshire and Poland China swine books. Mr. Burke takes a leading interest in the temperance cause — is President of the Elm Grove Society; is a young man of sterling integrity and untiring industry, and is laying the foundation for a future prosperous and happy life, whose influence will be appreciated in the community at large.