My Genealogy Hound

MILTON SWOPE, who is considered a pioneer of Johnson County, has been actively identified with its practical, prosperous farmers for many years, and is the proprietor of a large farm on section 4, township 47, range 24. He is a native of this state, and was born in Pettis County in 1823, to Jesse and Mary (Heddrick) Swope, natives of Kentucky. They were married in the Blue Grass State, but, not making much of a headway there, the father concluded to try his fortunes in Missouri, and accordingly came hither at a very early day, when this now thickly populated region was a vast wilderness. His first work was to enter a tract of land and upon taking possession of this unimproved property he began the work of its improvement, making his home thereon until the time of his death, in 1864. The mother of Milton followed her husband to the grave four or five years later.

There were no free schools in Johnson County during the boyhood of our subject, all being conducted on the subscription plan; therefore his attendance at the temple of learning was very infrequent. The short terms devoted to study, however, were improved by him, so that he became as well informed as any of his companions. He has spent his entire life in farm work, and during his father’s lifetime gained much useful information in this industry.

Our subject came to Johnson County in 1849 or 1850 and has lived on the farm on which he first located ever since. This tract embraces three hundred and twenty broad acres, which he devotes to the raising of grain and the breeding of fine grades of animals. He is widely known throughout this section of the state and has done much to promote the material prosperity of Johnson County. He is one of its self-made men, as he started out in life with but little of this world’s goods. A cool head, sound common-sense and good business tact have perhaps served his purpose better, as by hard work and economy he has placed himself among the wealthy farmers of this portion of the county. He and his estimable wife are spending their declining years on the old place, where they have the assurance of peace and plenty. He was first married in 1847, the lady prior to that event being known as Miss Virenda Sandridge, of Pettis County, Mo. She became the mother of four children: Mary Ann, now the wife of Madison Lee, of Pettis County; Parmelia M., at home; Susan I., the wife of Dr. Henry Park, of Johnson County; and Larkin, also at home.

Mr. Swope was again married, in 1881, his bride being Parmelia P. Sandridge, a sister of his former companion. They are both members in excellent standing of the Christian Church. During the Civil War Mr. Swope served his country for nine months as a member of the State Militia. He is a stanch Democrat in politics, and although in no sense a politician, at all times uses his influence to elect its candidates in this county. He has been School Director for several terms and while the incumbent of that position was of great value to the Board. Mr. Swope is a Director of the Concordia Bank, a well known and reliable institution, which is well patronized by the farmers and business men of the vicinity.