My Genealogy Hound

George W. Sewell, judge of the southern district of Gasconade County, was born January 18, 1883, in Roane County, Tenn., of which locality his parents, William and Sarah (Lacey) Sewell, were also natives. They came to Missouri after their marriage, locating in Pulaski (now Phelps) County, where the father attended to farming in connection with his ministerial labors, until his death shortly after. His widow subsequently married John Miller, a resident of Gasconade County. George W. was the fourth of five children in his parents’ family, two of whom are living. At the age of nineteen he left home and commenced life for himself as a hired hand, remaining in the employ of others until November 17, 1853, when he married Miss Cyrena Pryor, daughter of Pleasant Pryor. She was born in Warren County, Mo., April 15, 1835. This union has been blessed with eleven children: Pleasant, Jennie, John L., James A., William E., Ben. L., Cleon C., George A., Arva A., Mary E. and B. B. Following his marriage, Mr. Sewell rented land and began farming on his own resources, finally, by energy, perseverance and economy becoming the owner of 160 acres, a comfortable place, which he succeeded in getting under cultivation. In 1855 he went to Maries County, remaining there until 1863, when he settled upon his present location, and for the last few years, in connection with agricultural pursuits, he has worked some at the carpenter’s trade. In November, 1886, he was elected judge of the southern district of Gasconade County, a position the duties of which he has since proved himself well qualified to discharge. Judge and Mrs. Sewell are members of the Baptist Church. In politics the former is a Republican.