My Genealogy Hound

SAMUEL A. NORRIS, proprietor Pleasant Grove Mills, post-office Flornoy, was born in Perry county, Ohio, Oct. 28, 1829. His early life was spent in this and the adjoining county of Fairfield, where he received a common school education. He was married in Franklin county, Ohio, Dec. 3, 1853, to Miss Hannah Reece, a native of Fairfield county, Ohio, who was reared and educated in Franklin county of that state, a lady of more than ordinary intelligence and business capacity. Of this union there were born two children: Laura, died in 1875, aged 19; and William L., who is now a resident and business man of Carthage, Mo. Mr. Morris owned and operated a flouring-mill in Franklin county, Ohio, three years. Engaged at brick-making in Fairfield county, that state, two years; also contracting and building at Van Wert, Ohio, with good success. Became a member of a joint-stock company and erected a woolen mill at that place, which proved unsuccessful, his losses during a period of five years being upward of $8,000. Came to Jasper county, Mo., in 1880, purchased a site on Center Creek, and immediately commenced the erection of the Pleasant Mills, which was put in operation in September, 1881. It is well arranged for merchant or custom work, situated in the very finest wheat-producing locality in the country; has three run of burs for both corn and wheat. He also established a mercantile house for the convenience of the section. A post-office —Flornoy—is established here, receiving a semi-weekly mail. He also invested in real estate, owning 135 acres, to which he gives a portion of his time and attention. Mr. Norris is a public-spirited, worthy citizen.