My Genealogy Hound

George W. Laurance, farmer, is the son of Elijah Laurance, a native of Germany, who spelled his name Lorence, and who immigrated to America, settling on a farm in North Carolina, and there passing the remainder of his days. Elijah Laurance was born in North Carolina in 1808, and was a farmer by occupation. He married Miss Mira E. Tatum, and the fruits of this union were the following named children, who lived to mature years: Isam John, Mary. Melinda, Ann, Pinkson, Pierson, Sarah E., George W., Joseph R., Francis, Jane and Henry C. The father came to Newton County in 1846, and eight years later moved to Shoal Creek, three miles west of Ritchey, where he remained until his death; he died in 1882, at the age of seventy-four years. He was a Republican politically, and a Union man in the war, during which time he was robbed of all his property except his farm. His son, George W., was born in Newton County, Mo., in 1850, and secured a limited education in the common schools of that county. He early engaged in farming, and in September, 1879, he married Miss Dora Cook, daughter of Christian and Elizabeth (Keller) Cook. Mr. Cook was a German who had settled in this country. To Mr. and Mrs. Laurance were born two children: Jay G. T. and Horace F. T. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Laurance traveled through Washington Territory, Oregon, California and Arizona. They were abroad one year, and derived much pleasure and instruction from this trip. Mr. Laurance then engaged in the cattle business, and continued at this three years in Southwest Kansas. He then returned home and farmed for a year, and in 1884 he purchased a farm of 160 acres, on Shoal Creek, of his father, which he still owns. He lived here until 1886, when he moved to Ritchey, and leased his farm. He is giving his sons good education, and is a straightforward, upright citizen. He is a Democrat in his political views.