My Genealogy Hound

Capt. W. C. Thomas, farmer, stock-dealer and railroad contractor, was born in Frederick County, Md., May 2, 1831, and is a son of Notley and Catherine (Shier) Thomas, both natives of Maryland. Notley Thomas was a farmer by occupation, and, with his family, immigrated to Franklin County, Ohio, in 1835. He settled near Columbus, and here remained until 1852, when he immigrated to Cole County, Mo., locating near Jefferson City, and here passed his last days. His wife also died here. They were the parents of eight children, seven now living. The maternal grandfather was a native of Germany, and settled in Maryland, as did also the paternal grandparents. Capt. W. C. Thomas is the eldest son, and fifth in order of age. He attained his growth and was educated in Ohio, and came to Cole County in 1855, where he followed tilling the soil. During the late war he was a member of the Enrolled Militia, receiving his commission as captain from Gov. Fletcher. In 1872 he came to Moniteau County, and locating in California, where he has since carried on farming, in connection with other business. He has been the tie-contractor for the Missouri Pacific Railroad Company twenty years, and has taken some large contracts. He deals extensively in stock, and keeps some thoroughbred imported stock; is the owner of about 4,500 acres of land in Missouri and Kansas. He was married, in 1854, to Miss Cynthia Y. McCullough, a native of Columbus, Ohio, who bore him seven children: Emma G., wife of H. L. Duwenick; William L.; Alice, wife of J. C. Hickox; George W.; Jennie L., wife of James T. Tollard; Nellie C., and Lillian M., wife of John W. White, of Columbus, Ohio. Mr. Thomas is one of the leading stockmen of Moniteau County. His wife died in 1866, and he was again married, in 1868, to Miss Sarah A. Martin, of Columbus, Ohio, and a school-mate of his first wife. Two children were born to the second marriage, both now deceased. Capt. Thomas is the grandfather of twelve children.