My Genealogy Hound

John B. Bell, M. D., one of the oldest practicing physicians of Washington County, was born in Salisbury, Wicomico County, Md., December 1, 1827. His father, Peter Bell, was a native of the same State, and his mother’s maiden name was Ann Byrd, daughter of John Byrd, of Maryland, who removed to Washington County, Mo., where he was known as a prosperous farmer until his death. Peter and Ann Bell had seven children, John B. being the third son and fourth child. The latter was reared at the place of his birth until eleven years of age, and in 1838 located in Washington County, Mo. In 1844 he commenced clerking in a store in Potosi, and in 1849 commenced preparation for the practice of medicine. He read with Dr. Pope, of St. Louis, and attended lectures at the medical department of the St. Louis University, where he graduated in 1853. During the late war he served about three years in the medical department of the Federal army. For some time the Doctor was engaged in mercantile pursuits, and since 1867 he has been United States pension examiner, having been largely instrumental in having a board of examiners appointed for the county, of which he is secretary. He was married to Miss Catherine Castleman, July 13, 1853. She was born in Lincoln Country, Mo., and is a daughter of Louis and Ann (Dudley) Castleman, who came to this country in 1842. Doctor and Mrs. Bell have three children: Annie, wife of W. B. Tilghman, of Salisbury, Md.; Ada Low, wife of Ernest A. Toadvine, also living in Maryland, and Henry C. The latter is the editor of the Independent, the only paper published in Washington County. He was born in Potosi November 5, 1866, was reared in Washington County, and received his education at the Washington University. He learned the printer’s trade, and after the death of Mr. Harris, the proprietor, he was selected as a suitable person to manage and edit the paper, which he has done in a creditable manner.