My Genealogy Hound

Thomas A. Renick, deceased, was a prominent citizen and farmer of this county. He was the son of William and Julia Renick, natives, respectively, of Pennsylvania and Missouri, and was born in Franklin County, Mo., July 30, 1830. He was reared on the farm, and his educational advantages were those of the common schools. He was one of the leading men of his community, was always called upon to act as auctioneer at the county sales, and practiced law in the magistrate courts. December 11, 1856, he was married to Rachel, daughter of Barney Strain. They were the parents of nine children, two of whom are deceased. Those living are Benjamin F., William J., James M., Alice B., Charles F., George A. and Virginia. September 10, 1883, occurred the death of the husband and father of this family, who deeply mourned his loss, and the surrounding neighborhood was deprived of one of its most honored and respected citizens. He was a Republican in politics, and a Union man during the late war. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity, and was buried with Masonic honors. A worthy member of the Baptist Church, he always gave his hearty support to the church and ministry. The widow and her children still reside on the farm of about 400 acres, and enjoy the esteem of all who know them. The sons have all followed in the footsteps of their father, and are industrious and possessed of good management. In 1887 a postoffice was established at the residence of this family, which Benjamin F. named Japan. William J. Renick was appointed postmaster, which position he still holds, assisted by his accomplished sister, Alice B.