My Genealogy Hound

WILLIAM M. LECKIE. proprietor Joplin Machine Works, was born in Forfair county, Scotland. His parents, James and Margaret (Millne) Leckie were also natives of Scotland. Subject was raised principally on a farm and was educated in the Scotch schools. When about fifteen years old he commenced to learn the trade of mill-wright and served nearly five years. He then continued as draughtsman two years, after which he worked at his regular trade for a time. In the fall of 1870 he attended the School of Arts at Dundee, taking a full course. At the same time he engaged at the Black Ness Foundry, Dundee. Immigrated to America in 1872, sailing from Liverpool on the City of New York, arriving at New York May 20th of that year. He proceeded at once to Paterson, N. J., and engaged as a machinist at the Rogers Locomotive Works, of that place. A few months later he went to work in the Hezekiah Bradford Machine Works, and continued three years. Came to Joplin in 1877, and the fall following established present works. Mr. Leckie was married in Kirsiemuir, Scotland, Dec. 31, 1866, to Miss Catharine C., daughter of James and Betsy Murray, of Forfair county. From this union there are four children: Sophia, James, Catharine, and William H. [For history of works see page 480.]