"HUGH B. REYNOLDS. Some one has said that the farmers are the bone and sinew of this country. They are indeed important factors in that stability and steadfastness which have made this republic of so much more importance than that of France. We see in the subject of this sketch one of the leading agriculturists of Buchanan County, a man of sterling worth and an upright citizen. He is one of the honored pioneers of Jackson Township, to which he came, taking up land from the Government, as early as 1836. He now owns one hundred and ninety-two acres of valuable land, situated on section 8.

Mr. Reynolds was born in Bedford County, Tenn., in the year 1818. His childhood days were passed in his native State without any unusual event, and with his parents in 1819 he emigrated to Missouri. They located in Clay County, where Mr. Reynolds continued to live until the land of the Platte Purchase came into market, when, in company with his brother James, he came to Buchanan County, and, as previously mentioned, took up a claim. At that time the land was, of course, unbroken and uncultivated, but the rolling years have witnessed vast changes in the place, as the owner has assiduously and with characteristic energy devoted the best years of his life to its improvement. He is now considered to be, as he certainly is, one of the substantial and well-to-do citizens of the community, being held in the highest respect by one and all. In the development and upbuilding of the community he has ever borne his part, and for his faithful performance of the duties of citizenship deserves all credit.

Mr. Reynolds was married in Clay County to Frances Horless, and to them were born the following children who grew to manhood and womanhood: James M.; John W., of St. Joseph; William C., whose residence is in Clay County; E. J., who died unmarried; Frances E., who is the wife of Robert Moore, their home being in Agency; Adeline G., deceased; Angeline, now Mrs. Freeman; and Levi W.
About the year 1858, Mr. Reynolds wedded Martha J., widow of Isaac Norman, and daughter of Samuel Newhouse, of Clinton County. Four children were born to their union: Edward N., who makes his home in Troy, Kan.; Belle, wife of James Campbell, of Buchanan County; R. Lee, who lives near the old homestead; and James Y., who is still living with his parents, and lending his assistance in the active work of the farm. Mr. Reynolds has given his children good school advantages, thus fitting them for the battle of life, and has reared them to become good and useful citizens. Our subject and his wife, as well as several of his children, are identified with the Baptist Church. In regard to the question of politics, Mr. Reynolds has always used his influence and cast his ballot in favor of the Democratic party. His years of toil have been abundantly blessed with success, and in his declining years he can feel the satisfaction which only comes to those whose lives have been well spent."