Spouse: Geraldine COFFMAN. Children were: Chris Ann LESSLY.

Spouse: Ernest THURMAN. Cora Amanda LESSLY and Ernest THURMAN were married.

Spouse: Phyllis Lee COUNTS. Children were: Cathy Jane LESSLY.

Spouse: Samuel Ephraim MCGUIRE. Daisy Gray LESSLY and Samuel Ephraim MCGUIRE were married on 29 June 1902 in Texas. Children were: Mary Jeanette MCGUIRE, Owen Meredith MCGUIRE, Glenn Wood MCGUIRE, Charles Noel MCGUIRE, John Gilbert MCGUIRE, Nathan Bedford Forrest MCGUIRE.

Listed in the SS Death Index
SSN - 491-07-0897
Born - Nov 6, 1909
Died - 15 Oct, 2000
Residence - 67218, Wichita, Sedgwick, KS
Issued - MO before 1951

Friday, 29 Feb 1924, Vol 37 No 45--Misses Delphia, Addie and Orphia Lessly visited
their brother, Roy, and family at Clark last week. Parents: George Edwin LESSLY and Willa Mae DAGGS.

Spouse: Keith ROUSE.

Individual: Lessly, Don
Birth date: Aug 22, 1925
Death date: Aug 1965
Social Security #: 443-30-5628
State of issue: OK Parents: Melville Guyton LESSLY and Clara Gertrude HORN.

Spouse: Helen THOMPSON. Helen THOMPSON and Donald Edward LESSLY were married on 24 June 1949. Children were: Terri LESSLY, Sharon LESSLY, Mike Guyton LESSLY.

Spouse: Jean Elizabeth RAINES.

Spouse: Harold Richard THOMPSON.

Spouse: Henry N. CLARK. Emma Bell LESSLY and Henry N. CLARK were married on 31 January 1897 in Texas ?. Children were: Marguerite CLARK, Ione CLARK, Edyth HEIRONIMUS, Mary CLARK, Nelson CLARK, L.W. CLARK.

Spouse: J. O. GIVENS.

Spouse: Eldridge W. MADDUX. Florence James LESSLY and Eldridge W. MADDUX were married in May 1901 in Texas ?. Children were: Mildred MADDUX, Virginia MADDUX, Lois MADDUX, Elbert Walton MADDUX, Douglas MADDUX, Lessly MADDUX.

Spouse: Mattie May BAILEY. Children were: Edna May LESSLY, Choice B. LESSLY, Loyce D. LESSLY.

Spouse: Elizabeth S. WOODS.

Spouse: Patricia K. ROPER.

Spouse: Martha A. QUATTLEBAUM.

George Edmund married May Daggs and they had ten children, four of whom died in infancy. They were Roy, Anna Maud, James Carl, Delph, Addie, and Orpha. Roy was killed in a mine accident near Higbee, Anna Maud died of cancer in Moberly. James Carl lived many years in Chicago working in a Florsheim Shoe factory, he died about 1967. Addie was killed in an auto accident at age 18, Orpha lives in Wichita, Kan, and Delpha in or near Pueblo, Colo.

In the 1880 census for Randolph County, MO., George appears as a child in his father's household. His age is listed as 7 and his birthplace as Missouri. He is listed as having attended school within the last year. The birthplace for both parents is listed as Missouri.

In the 1900 census for Randolph County, MO, George appears in the household of his father, George W. Lessly. George's date of birth is listed as March of 1873, his age as 27 and his place of birth as Missouri. Both parents are also listed as having been born in Missouri. His occupation is listed as farm laborer. According to the census he can both read and write. The census also indicates that he has been married for two years.

Friday, 9 July 1915--Twins, a girl and a boy, were born on the 7th, to G. E. Lessly and wife.

Friday, 5 Dec 1919, Vol 33. No 33--G. E. Lessly, met with a very painful accident one day last week, and one that could very easily have cost him his left hand. He had put in the day killing hogs and was handling a backbone when his son, Roy, came down on it with an ax which struck Mr. Lessly on the wrist, cutting a gash about two inches long, and which required several stitches to close, but which fortunately severed no tendons. Had Mr. Lessly's hand been resting on something solid and not in the air when the blow fell, it would have no doubt been severed.

Friday, 8 June 1923, Vol 37, No 7--G. E. Lessly made his little daughters the happiest children in the community last week by the purchase of a Shetland pony. Parents: George Washington LESSLY and Annie Elizabeth PATTRICK.

Spouse: Willa Mae DAGGS. Willa Mae DAGGS and George Edwin LESSLY were married on 10 October 1897 in Missouri. Children were: George Leroy LESSLY, Anna Maud LESSLY, Carrie Nichols LESSLY, Aubrey LESSLY, James Carl LESSLY, Delpha May LESSLY, Adeline Francis LESSLY, Orpha Helen LESSLY, Pauline Wilson LESSLY, Paul Woodrow LESSLY.

Friday, 29 Feb 1924, Vol 37 No 45--Misses Delphia, Addie and Orphia Lessly visited their brother, Roy, and family at Clark last week.

Taken from obituary for George Leroy "Roy" Lessly

HIGBEE MAN DIES OF MINE INJURIES

Roy Lessley, 38, Falls From Top of Coal Car at No. 11

Injuries sustained yesterday afternoon while he was at work at Moniteau Coal Company's mine No. 11 proved fatal early this morning for Roy Lessley, 38-year-old Higbee mine surface worker.

Lessley was brought to the McCormick hospital here from the mine near Higbee for treatment and he died at 4:30 o'clock this morning.

He sustained internal injuries when he was flung from the top of a hopper coal car, on which he was operating a brake, by the impact of other cars being switched against it. He was working overtime when the fatal mishap occured.

The body was taken to Higbee this morning, and funeral services at Higbee may be held Friday.

Mr. Lessley is survived by his wife, a son, Roy Allen Lessley; his mother, Mrs. May Lessley; two sisters and a brother, Miss Delphia Lessley; Miss Orpha Lessley and Carl Lessley all of Higbee. Another sister, Mrs. Anna Maude Horn, lives in Moberly.

Notes from James A. Lessly
I can remember my dad mentioning Roy Lessly getting killed at the Nbr 11 mine. Whenever we visited Higbee
in the 1930s & 1940s, you could see the tipple and slag heaps next to it, either looking north from town or east
from my grandpa's farm. This mine started about the time my dad was born and was about a half mile north of
Higbee. They paid my grand dad for mineral rights, for the coal under his land, but they never came close to
getting to that particular coal. About 1938, my dad & I went up to the mine & he saw someone he knew, working
there. They let us go down into the mine, about 165'. We had to stay in the area by the shaft, since they said
the work area (coal face) was about a mile away and there is no room for visitors there. It was very wet
down there. That was an old mine, so they had mules to pull the small cars of coal along the track laid
through the main tunnels of the mine. Since explosive gas was not a problem in Missouri mines, the miners
used carbide lamps for illumination. This was a metal device (about the size of a small jar of mustard) that
contained a compartment for carbide pellets, and another compartment for water. As the water slowly dripped on
to the carbide, a gas came off which was directed to the front of the lamp, where it could be lit to make a
bright flame in front of a reflector. Miners all wore these lamps on their miner's caps. You had to be a
little careful, but there wasn't too much to easily catch on fire down in the mine; also it was quite cheap
to operate, better than batteries. Even the lead mule of each team had a carbide lamp on its harness.

My dad also mentioned someone that was the company spy at the mine. Don't know if that was Roy or any other
relative. I do know that in later years the miners took over ownership of the mine. Then, Uncle George said,
they had the problem of too many chiefs and not enough Indians. During the war, around 1943 perhaps, the mine
became uneconomical to operate, so it went out of business. In 1965, after we moved out here, we visited
Uncle George & Aunt Clara on Memorial Day and George & I went over to where the mine had been. The tipple was
long gone, as well as the slag heaps also. I could see where they had been, so could tell where the tipple
would have been and the shaft under it. The area of the shaft had been fenced off, but the sides had long since
caved in and weeds were growing in this area. So it was all gone in about 20 years. I remember one time my dad
& I went up on the tipple structure to where the shakers were. Whenever a car of coal came up there on the cage
(elevator) it would automatically dump on to a scale, which had to be weighed very fast. There would also be
a slip of paper on the car from the miner who had filled it. In this way the man running the scales could give
him proper credit. Real piece work! I think the miners also got something for slag, but perhaps less than for
coal. The coal was shaken on tilted shakers, which were like a giant sieve. Small holes first for small pieces
of coal, dropping over a hopper car, larger holes later for bigger pieces of coal to drop into another hopper
car on the track adjacent to the first hopper car. So much now for the mining business.

Parents: George Edwin LESSLY and Willa Mae DAGGS.

Spouse: Elizabeth RATHERFORD. Elizabeth RATHERFORD and George Leroy LESSLY were married on 22 May 1922 in Gorin, MO. Friday, 2 June 1922, Vol 36, No 7--LESSLY-RATHERFORD--Mr. Roy Lessly and Miss Elizabeth Ratherford were united in marriage at the home of the bride in Gorin, Mo., last Saturday, Mr. Lessly returning home and his bride going to Kirksville where she will attend the summer course in the Teacher's Training School. The bride is well known here, having taught in our school last year, and where she will teach the coming term, and has made many warm friends during her short residence here. Mr. Lessly is the son of Mr. and Mrs. G. E. Lessly and is one of our most popular and reliable young men.
The NEWS joins others in congratulations and best wishes. Children were: Roy Allen LESSLY.

As a young man Geroge W. engaged in general merchandise business in Higbee taking as a parnter a cousin Shelton Lessley (note different spelling of name). When his first wife Annie died, he purchased a 410 acre farm located two miles northwest of Higbee on Silver Creek, lying on both sides of the old Huntsville-Fayette road. In the early 1900's he purchased a livery stabel in Higbee in partnership with a Mr. Ward. In 1904 he built a house in Higbee, moving from the farm and lived in that house until his death. After several years in the livery stable he sold his interest in it and along with his son Oreon he engaged in the grocery business until his retirement about 1920. For several years he also served as city collector for the town. He died on Feb 18, 1922. While a young man George W. lost a leg in an accident in connection with a horse-powered threshing machine and was fitted with an artificial leg and he used a cane as he walked. When he moved from the farm into town, Annie, Lucy and Oreon were living with him

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In the 1850 census for Polk County, MO, George appears as a child in his father's household. His age is given as 4 and his place of birth as Missouri.

In the printed account of the 1860 census for Polk County, MO, George appears as a minor in his father's household. His age is given as 14 and his place of birth as Missouri.

In the 1870 census for Randolph County, MO George appears as a member of his father-in-law's household (page 183 A, Prairie Twp). His age is listed as 24 and place of birth as Missouri. His occupation is listed as "works on farm" and he is listed as having been married in March of that year.

In the 1880 census for Randolph County, MO, George appears as the head of his household. The page no. is 27, the Supervisor's Dist is no. 5 and the Enumeration Dist is no. 113. The township is Monitou Township. George's age is listed as 34, his occupation as dry goods dealer, and his birthplace as Missouri. The census notes that he has only one leg. Also the spaces that note the birthplaces of his parents have been left blank. Also in the household are George's wife, Ann E., and children James E., George E., William A., and Clarence K. Also a black servant named Eliza Lytt is living in the house. On the same page of the census is an entry for George's partner in business (and second cousin), Shelton Lessley.

In the 1900 census for Randolph County, MO, George appears as the head of household. Supervisor's District is #2, Enumeration District is #132, sheet #17. His age is listed as 54 and his time of birth as Dec 1845. His state of birth is listed as Missouri and those of his parents as Kentucky. His occupation is listed as farmer. According to the census, he can read, write and speak English. Also appearing in his household are his son, George E. , daughter in law May (Willa Mae), son Clarence K., daughter Lucy, son Oreon P., and grandson George L. The entry for George W. appears immediately before that of his oldest son James Elgin Lessly.

In the 1910 census for Randolph County, MO, George appears as the head of household. The township is Moniteau, the city is Higbee, and the Enumeration Dist. number is 139. He is listed as "George Leasley" in the 1910 census index. His age is listed as 64 and his marital status as widowed. His place of birth is listed as Missouri. The birthplace of both his parents is listed as Kentucky. According to the census, he can read, write and speak English. His occupation appears to be manager of a livery stable. Also appearing in his household are his son, William A., daughters Annie E. and Lucy E., and two grandchildren (the children of William A.) Claude and Lucy B. Lessly.

The information from all census records correspond with family information on George's birthdate and birthplace.

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A G.W. Lessley from Missouri appears in the Confederate roster. He served in Coffee's Cavalry Regiment, Company "D", as a private for the years 1864-1865. Information provided by Missouri State Archives and John Gross at confederate@@worldnet.att.net

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Information obtained from the National Archives lists the following. G. W. Lessley served in Company D, Coffee's Regiment, Missouri Calvary (Cofederate), record number 44180258. He "Appears on a Muster and Descriptive Roll of prisoners of war belonging to the Army of the Northern Sub-District of Arkansas, and surrendered on the 11th day of May, 1865, by Brigadier General M. Jeff. Thompson, C.S.A., commanding said Army, to Major General G.M. Dodge, U.S.A., commanding Department of the Missouri".
Paroled at Jacksonport, Arkansas, June 5, 1865.
Where enlisted - Batesville
Age - 18 yrs.; eyes - blue; hair - light
Complexion - fair; height - 5 feet 6 inches.
Where born - Mo
Remarks: Absent sick

The records from the Missouri State Archives and the National Archives correspond in that George W. would have been 18 years in 1864 (the stated time of his enlistment).

A G. W. Lessley is listed in the Civil War Muster Rolls at the National Archives. Co. D, Coffee's Regiment, Missouri Cav., rank private, Box # 000380, Extraction # 0009, Record # 00001626

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From "The Higbee News" dated 16 Dec 1898--G. W. Lessley, who left here Saturday for Potsboro, Texas, to see his aged father, James Lessley, who has been sick for some time, writes that his father died Saturday evening and that he only reached there in time Sunday evening to see him buried. Mr. Lessley, at the time of his death, was over 80 years old.

13 May 1910--CARD OF THANKS--Through the columns of the NEWS we wish to return our sincere and grateful thanks to the good people of Higbee and vicinity for their many kindnesses and sympathy during the illness and death of our son and brother. G. W. Lessley and Family.

Friday, 8 Jan 1915--BIRTHDAY DINNER--On Christmas day G. W. Lessley's children and grandchildren to the number of twenty-one met at his home to surprise him and help him celebrate his 69th birthday. The gathering came as a total surprise to Mr. Lessly. All came with well filled baskets. The morning was spent in exchanging greetings and making merry. At the noon hour all were invited to the dining room where the table was loaded with Christmas turkey with all the trimmings that go with it, the centerpiece being a cake on which were 63 candles. After dinner when all were feeling at their best all repaired to the front porch where their pictures were taken. After spending a very pleasant afternoon the guests returned to their homes, wishing Mr. Lessly many happy returns of the day and prosperous New Year. Those present: J. E. Lessly and family, G. E. Lessly and family, Oreon Lessley and family, Mrs. Bessie Lessly and family, Miss Annie Lessly and Claud Lessly.

Friday, 3 Dec 1915--G. W. Lessly received a letter from a niece living at Pottsboro, Texas, the first of the week, informing him that his brother, John H. Lessly, of that place was stricken with paralysis Friday, his entire right side being affected.

Friday, 21 Nov 1919, Vol 33. No 31--GROCERY CHANGES HANDS--(Condensed)--Dennis & Gooch, who recently purchased the G. W. Lessly & Co. grocery stock, sold out last Saturday to Edmund Burke and Otho Robb, who will continue the business in the old stand.

Friday, 10 Feb 1922, Vol 35, No 43--SUFFERING FROM PARALYSIS--G. W. Lessley, one of our best known citizens, suffered a slight stroke of paralysis one day last week, and has since been confined to his home, though able to be up and about, his speech only being effected, and that only partially. He was not quite so well yesterday, we are sorry to say. Mr. Lessly's host of friends join the NEWS in the hope for his speedy recovery.

Friday, 17 Feb 1922, Vol 35, No 44--G. W. LESSLY NO BETTER--G. W. Lessly, who is suffering from paralysis, with which he was stricken ten days ago, was not so well yesterday, his legion of friends will be sorry to learn. While his speech was slightly effected at first, it is much more so now, indicating that the paralysis is gradually increasing. Everything possible that medical science and loving care can do for him is being done, but the worst is feared because of Mr. Lessly's 76 years. All join the NEWS in the prayer for his recovery and that he may be spared to his children and his friends for years to come.

Friday, 24 Feb 1922, Vol 35, No 45--ANOTHER GOOD MAN CALLED HOME--G. W. Lessly Passes Peacefully Away at His Home Saturday From Paralysis--It again becomes the sad province of the NEWS to chronicle the passing of another good citizen, neighbor and friend--G. W. Lessly, who died at his home in this place at 3:50 p.m. Saturday, February 18, 1922, from paralysis, with which he had been stricken ten days before.

While the stroke was very light, his speech being only partially affected, and his family and friends were hopeful that he would shortly recover, it was soon seen that it was not to be, as the paralysis gradually extended from day to day and he grew momentarily weaker, until he passed peacefully away at the hour stated, surrounded by all of his children.

George Washington Lessly was a native of Randolph county, having been born near Renick on December 24, 1845, and spent all of his almost 77 years in Higbee and immediate vicinity.

He was married to Miss Annie E. Pattrick on March 6, 1870. They were the parents of six children. Mrs. Lessly dying Jan. 3, 1882, he was married to Miss Augusta Palmer on October 20, 1883. to this union two children were born. Mrs. Lessly died November 7, 1888. On February 19, 1890, he was married to Miss Nancy C. Burton, who died December 21, 1893.

The surviving children are Jas. E., George E., Miss Annie and Oren Lessly, all of this place. Augustus died some fifteen years ago and Bertha in early childhood. Clarence, who left for the West some twenty-five years ago, is believed to be dead, as he has not been heard from for twenty years. Miss Lucy, the oldest of the two children of his second marriage, died at the family home some ten years ago. thirteen grandchildren and two brothers, both of Oklahoma, also survive.

Mr. Lessly was one of Higbee's very best citizens, and was the town's first business man, having opened a store near where the West Side Hotel now stands in 1874, later selling a half interest to the late S. Lessly and erecting the brick now occupied by Mark Murphy's hardware store. Selling his interest in the store in 1886 to the Higbee Coal & Mining Co., he moved to his farm a year or two later, returning to town in 1904, where he had since lived, and was engaged in the grocery business for several years with
his son, Oren, retiring some three or four years ago.

He was a Christian gentleman of the highest type and was loved and respected by all who knew him, and all feel a personal loss in his passing.
Funeral services were conducted at the home Sunday by the Rev. J. J. Hutchison, pastor of the Christian church, of which deceased had been a member since early manhood, the crowd being one of the largest seen here in years on a similar occasion.
Interment was made in the city cemetery. An extended obituary will appear later.

Friday, 17 Mar 1922, Vol 35, No 48--IN MEMORY--In loving memory of G. W. Lessly, who silently crossed the dark river of death Feb. 18, 1922.
Leaves have their time to fall, And flowers to wither at the north wind's breath. But thou hast all seasons for thine own, Oh! death.
After life's fitful fever, Sleeps one of earth's noblemen. One by one they pass on, mother, sister, brothers and lastly the dear father,
leaving fond memories of the parent, who for so many years had been both father and mother. Loving, generous, kind, always thinking the best of and for his children, always cheerful and deeply interested in his neighbors and friends' welfare. Honest and just, eager and anxious to help further a cause for the uplift of humanity or aid a fellow man. He has left noble monuments to his children in the life he lived. Sweet memories of him as they go about their daily duties ever a light to guide them on and upward, to higher and better living, sadly missing his wise counsel and loving advice, ever by his example keeping in the straight and narrow way that leads to life everlasting, and to merit the plaudit, "Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joys of the master." There is no death, the stars go down, To rise again on some fair shore, And there in heaven's jeweled crown, They shine for evermore. A FRIEND.

Parents: James Elkins LESSLY and Emily HARRIS.

Spouse: Annie Elizabeth PATTRICK. Annie Elizabeth PATTRICK and George Washington LESSLY were married on 6 March 1870 in Higbee, Randolph Co., MO.^954,955,956 Lessley, G.W. -- mar 6 Mar 1870 Ann e. Patrick, all of Rand., by Eld. Jesse
Terrill; North Missouri Herald 16 Mar 1870 Children were: James Elgin LESSLY, George Edwin LESSLY, William Augustus LESSLY, Clarence Kimbrough LESSLY, Bertha May LESSLY, Annie LESSLY.

Spouse: Augusta PALMER. Augusta PALMER and George Washington LESSLY were married on 21 September 1883 in Higbee, Randolph Co., MO.⁹⁵⁷ They⁹⁵⁷ were married on 20 October 1883 in Higbee, MO. Children were: Lucy Emily LESSLY, Oreon Palmer LESSLY.

Spouse: Nancy C. BURTON. Nancy C. BURTON and George Washington LESSLY were married on 19 February 1890 in Higbee, Randolph Co., MO.

George W. was married to Clara I. DeFoe on August 18, 1929 at Moberly. George has engaged in various business activities, and for many years operated their farm, the old Whitmore farm a mile west of town and lying just south of his father's farm. For several decades Clara has been a teacher in the Higbee Public Schools. She is now retired, but continues to teach part time. George retired from farming a few years ago. They built a new home in Higbee and sold the farm.[Brøderbund Family Archive #110, Vol. 1, Ed. 3, Social Security Records: U.S., SS Death Benefit Records, Surnames Beginning with L, Date of Import: May 12, 1996, Internal Ref. #1.111.3.125913.106]

Individual: Lessly, George
Birth date: Aug 18, 1896
Death date: Jan 1978
Social Security #: 494-03-2635
Last residence: MO 65257
State of issue: MO

In the 1900 census for Randolph County, MO, George appears as a member of his father's household. His date of birth is listed as August 1896, his age as 3 and his place of birth as Oklahoma. His father's place of birth is listed as Missouri while his mother's place of birth is listed as Kansas.

On his Application for a Social Security number George listed his full name as "George Washington Lessly". He lists his current residence as Higbee, Missouri. The name of his employer is listed as "Higbee Co-operative Ass'n". The address of his employer is listed as Higbee, Missouri. His age at last birthday is listed as 40. He lists his date of birth as August 18, 1896 and his birthplace as Norman, Oklahoma. He lists his father's name as James Elgin Lessly and his mother's full maiden name as Gertrude Stiles. His birth mother was actually Ora May Grotts but she had died when he was only 3 years old. His sex is listed as male and his color as white. The form is signed and dated 11-16-1936.

21 Aug 1896--Born, in Norman, Oklahoma, on August 18, to J. E. Lessley and wife, a son.

Friday, 17 Jan 1919, Vol 32, No 39--George Lessly returned Tuesday from the training camp at Waco, Texas, to remain, having received his discharge.

Notes from James Alan Lessly
The thing about the flu epidemic reminds me what my dad told me George almost died from the flu, while in the army. He stayed behind, while his outfit headed across the Atlantic. During the crossing, the armistice was declared. Parents: James Elgin LESSLY and Ora May GROTTS.

Spouse: Clara I. DEFOE. Clara I. DEFOE and George Washington LESSLY II were married on 18 August 1929 in Moberly, MO.

Spouse: Michael Charles ROWLAND.

Spouse: Mae Evelyn CASEY. Children were: William Jack LESSLY, Janet Ann LESSLY.

Spouse: Geraldine Ann IROLLA. Children were: Russell James LESSLY, Gregg Alan LESSLY, Douglas George LESSLY.

Friday, 22 Dec 1911--LETTERS TO SANTA CLAUS--Dear Old Santa Claus: Do not forget me this year. I am a little boy 6 years old and have two baby sisters, Delphia May and Addie Frances. I want a sled and a knife and some candy and nuts, and Delphia wants a doll and a doll cart, a rubber ball and a big picture book and candy and nuts. Addie Frances wants a doll, a Teddy, a rubber ball and a pair of shoes and
candy and nuts--Carl Lessly. Parents: George Edwin LESSLY and Willa Mae DAGGS.

Spouse: Gladys HITT. Children were: Linda LESSLY, Dorothy Jean LESSLY.

the following was taken from the note of Stiles Lessly circa march 1, 1970

James Elgin born March 11, 1871 at Higbee. When he was 11 years old his mother died, and he moved with his father and brothers to the farm. When he had grown up he operated a lumber yard for a few years in Higbee. Early in 1895 he went to Oklahoma, living there with his Uncle and Aunt, Paul C. and Lou Lessly. On Nov 10, 1895 he was married to Ora May Grotts. Their son George W. was born on Aug 18, 1896. Two other children died in infancy. Ora May (Grotts) Lessly died Arpil 26, 1899.

James Elgin then returned to Missouri with his son George W. and live with his father's family for a time. George W. was then a little under three years old. Late in 1899 James Elgin purchased the Wm. P. Dysart farm one mile west of Higbee, Missouri and on March 4, 1900 he was married to Gertrude M. Stiles who lived near Renick, MO. They lived on the farm until James E. died on Oct 6, 1947, after which his wife sold the farm. To this union one son was born, Stiles Lessly, on Oct 21, 1901. Gertrude (Stiles) Lessly died on Aug 13, 1960 at age 87.

taken from the obituary of James Elgin Lessly
James E. Lessly, one of our best known and most substantial citizens, who had been in poor health for two years or more, and who recently suffered a light stroke, but from which he had all but recovered, passed away at the family home west of town at 3:25 p.m. Monday, October 6, 1947. The body was brought to the Burton Funeral Home where it remained until the hour of the funeral, 2 p.m. Wednesday, at the Christian church, and interment was made in the city cemetary.
The funeral service was in charge of his son, the Rev. Stiles Lessly, and although it was a most trying ordeal for him, it was one of the most beautiful and consoling we ever heard.
James Elgin Lessly, son of Geo. W. and Annie Patrick Lessly, was born on the old Hezekiah Pattrick farm, northwest of Higbee, on March 11, 1871. He was the oldest of a family of eight children. A few years later the family moved to Higbee, living in the house which stood where the Dinwiddie building now stands.
One of his earliest recollections was the building of the Chicago & Alton railroad. When he was eleven years old his mother died. At the age of sixteen, with his father and brothers, he moved to a farm two miles northwest of town, where he grew to manhood. He attended Old Higbee school and later the high school and Hatton College. For a time he operated a lumber yard in Higbee. In 1895 he went to Oklahoma, locating on a farm near Norman. On November 10, 1895 he was married to Ora May Grotts. Three children were born to this union, two of whom died in infancy. On April 26, 1899, his wife died, and with his small son, George W., he returned to Missouri. He purchased the farm a mile west of Higbee in the autumn of 1899 from Medley Burton. On March 4, 1900, he was united in marriage to Miss Gertrude Stiles, of near Renick. They settled on the farm and lived there for more than forty-seven years. One son, Stiles, was born to this union.
Through the years he gave the major emphasis of his life to the farm, which he worked faithfully and successfully. He entered into the life of the community in many ways. He served as school director and for one term as road overseer. In 1902 he united with the Higbee Christian church at which time the Rev. A.N. Lindsay was pastor. He attended the services of the church as long as his health permitted, serving as a deacon and a member of the official board.
He was deeply interested in religious matters and did a vast amount of reading on the subject, and was a good Bible student. He was always keenly interested in political affairs and remained a loyal Democrat.
He had been in failing health for about two years, and passed away at 3:25 p.m., Monday, October 6. He is survived by his wife, two sons and their wives. Mr. and Mrs. Geo. W. Lessly of west of town, and Rev. and Mrs. Stiles Lessly, of DeKalb, Ill.; two grandchildren, James Alan, now at the University of Chicago, and Marilyn Jean of DeKalb; one sister, Mrs. Annie Williams, and a brother, O.P. Lessly, of Higbee, as well as a large number of nephews and nieces.
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Other notes

Ora May Grotts Lessly apparently died of septicemia

He used to give his only grandchildren James Alan and Marilyn Lessly a dollar every time they came to visit. They came to visit nearly every summer. Marilyn remembers they ate a lot of fried chicken - "the best fried chicken in the world".

From James Alan Lessly "My dad always had heard that the reason his dad came back from Oklahoma was due to the fact that he feared his in-laws would try to take possession of George. He avoided that by returning to Missouri. He had been staying with Uncle Paul in Oklahoma.

J.E. Lessly farm was 1 mile west of Higbee. Along the east side of the farm a road ran a little east & then
north towards Huntsville, a dinky town that was the county seat. A couple of miles up on this
road was the G.W. Lessly farm, on the east side. On the west side in that general area was the farm of H.E. Pattrick.

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In the 1880 census for Randolph County, MO., James appears as a child in his father's household. His age is listed as 9 and his birthplace as Missouri. He is listed as having attended school within the last year. The birthplace for both parents is listed as Missouri.

In the 1900 census for Randolph County, MO, James appears as the head of his household. The Supervisor's District is #2, Enumeration District #132, Sheet #17. James is listed immediately after the entry for his father George W. Lessly. James is listed as having been born March of 1871 and is 29 years of age. His place of birth is listed as Missouri as is the birthplaces of both his parents. His occupation is listed as farmer. According to the census he can both read and write. Also listed in his household is his wife Gertie M. (Matilda Gertrude), and his son George W.
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28 Apr 1899--G. W. Lessley received a telegram from Norman, O. T, Wednesday evening, informing him of the death of his daughter-in-law, Mrs. J. E. Lessley, who had just died at that place.

5 May 1899--J. E. Lessley, of Norman, Oklahoma, who had the misfortune to lose his wife about ten days ago, came up Wednesday, bringing his three-year-old son with him. Mr. Lessley will make Higbee his home for the present.

Friday, 8 Aug 1924, Vol 38 No. 16--Building New Home.--Jas. E. Lessly last week began the erection of a comfortable and pretty new residence on his farm just northwest of town. With the old house gone, Mr. Lessly having torn it down, that part of the country will not look right for some time to come, the old house, and which was yet in first class condition, built by the late Dr. Wm. Dysart, having stood longer than many in the community can remember. Our congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Lessly.

Parents: George Washington LESSLY and Annie Elizabeth PATTRICK.

Spouse: Ora May GROTTS. Ora May GROTTS and James Elgin LESSLY were married on 10 November 1895 in Norman, Cleveland Co, OK.^714,718 On the Marriage License of James and Ora May, a statement is given by Ora's mother giving permission for the marriage. James' age is listed as 24 and Ora May's age as 17.

From The Higbee News - 15 Nov 1895--J. E. Lessley who went to Oklahoma about a year ago and located near Norman, was married on the 10th, near that place to Miss Mary Grotts. The News extends congratulations. Children were: George Washington LESSLY II, J. E. LESSLY.

Spouse: Matilda Gertrude STILES. Matilda Gertrude STILES and James Elgin LESSLY were married on 4 March 1900 in Moberly, Randolph Co., MO.⁹⁶⁰ Children were: Rev Stiles LESSLY.

James Elkins Lessly moved to Higbee, Randolph County, Missouri soon after his marriage to Emily Harris. Their seven children were born and raised there. In 1876 James Elkins and his wife Emily along with some of their children migrated to Texas. They settled on an eighty acre farm which is diagonnally across from the present Hagerman Baptist Church. They obtained this farm by a grant from Governor John Ireland. This farm was owned later by Samuel E. and Daisy Lessly McGuire, who moved there after their marriage in 1902.

The grave of James Elkins Lessly, his wife, sons John H. and Andrew P. Lessly, and daughter-in-law are in the Georgetown Cemetary near Pottsboro in northern Texas, several miles west of Dennison.

According to notes by N.B. Forrets McGuire, one L.D. Lessly of Dennison, Texas believes that his grandfather, John M. Lessly, who lived near Springfield, Missouri, was in the group of seven covered wagons that migrated to Texas in 1876 with James Elkins and Emily Lessly.

According to James Alan Lessly, James Elkins raised corn and mules while owning a couple of slaves.

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In the 1850 census for Polk County, MO James Elkins appears as "James Lestley". His age is given as 29 and occupation as farmer. His place of birth is listed as Kentucky. Also listed are his wife Emily and children John H., George W., and Charles.

In the printed Polk County census of 1860 on page 5, James Lessly appears with his family. The family surname is spelled "Lesley". James age is given as 39 and his occupation as farmer. His place of birth is listed as Kentucky. Also listed are his wife Emily, and children John H., George W., Charles A., Andrew P., Mary E., Alice and Paul C.

In the 1870 census for Randolph County, Mo, James Elkins appears as "James Lessley". He appears on page 182 A living in Prairie Township, post office Moberly. His age is listed as 51 and his occupation as farmer. His place of birth is listed as Kentucky. Also appearing in his household are his wife Emily and children John H., Charles, Andrew P., Mary E., Alice and Paul.

James appears in the 1880 census for Grayson Co., TX (Precinct 1, page 56 D, NA film # T9-1306). His name is listed as "James Leslie". His age is listed as 60, his occupation as Farmer and his place of birth as Kentucky. His father's birthplace is listed as Virginia. Also listed in the household are his wife, Emily, sons Andrew and Paul, and sister-in-law Isabelle Harris.

James' age in the 1850 census differs with other information on his birthdate. According to the date of birth of 1819 inscribed on his tombstone, James should have been about 31 at the time of the 1850 census not 29. His age listed in the 1860 census appears to correspond with his tombstone birthdate. The census was taken in June, perhaps just before his 41st birthday. The age listed in the 1870 census corresponds to family information on his birthdate. All census records confirm family information that he was born in Kentucky.

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In an Ancestry.com database, a James Lessly is listed - belonging to Company G, Unit 11th Missouri Infantry, Rank at Induction - Private, Rank at Discharge - Private, Box # 000380, EXCT # 0009, Record # 00001636
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Texas Land Title Abstracts
District: Fannin County: Grayson Page: 317 Abst: 744 Grantee: James Lesley Patentee: James Lesley
Date: 14 Jan 1885 Vol: 187;6 Description/Blk/Tsp: --;E 1/2 of SW 1/4 of 21 1,11,15,16- Acres: 80 File: 456 Parents: John LESSLY and Polly ZIMMERMAN.

Spouse: Emily HARRIS. Emily HARRIS and James Elkins LESSLY were married about 1842 in Kentucky. Children were: John Harris LESSLY, George Washington LESSLY, Charles Augustus LESSLY, Andrew P. LESSLY, Mary Ellen LESSLY, Alice Gray LESSLY, Paul C. LESSLY.

Individual: Lessly, James
Birth date: Dec 3, 1892
Death date: Apr 1975
Social Security #: 441-01-4455
Last residence: OK 73112
State of issue: OK Parents: Charles Augustus LESSLY and Rhoda Charlotte SYMCOX.

Spouse: Carrie Excelle OLIPHANT. Children were: Jerona E. LESSLY, Eunice Faye LESSLY, Charles David LESSLY, James Ernest LESSLY , Jr.

A second James Lessly also appears in the index with a birthdate of 10 Sep, 1952 and died 11 Aug, 1996. Last residence was Edmond, Oklahoma 73034. Social Security number was 442-54-8515. I feel this must be a relative due to both the spelling of the last name and the location in Oklahoma, however I have no idea how he fits in. My best guess would be that this is the son of James Ernest, Jr - perhaps James Ernest Lessly, III? Parents: James Ernest LESSLY , Sr and Carrie Excelle OLIPHANT.

Spouse: Orpha Marie HOWELL. Children were: Carrie Ellen LESSLY, James E. LESSLY.

Spouse: Evelyn O. ALLEN.

Spouse: Edward WENZLAFF , Jr.

Spouse: FREW.

John Lessley appears in the 1850 census for Polk County, MO, page 31. His surname is mispelled as "Lestley". His age is listed as 69 and his occupation as farmer. His place of birth is listed as Virginia. The value of his real estate is listed as $300.00. Listed in John's household is a Mary (his wife), Judith, Almira (daughters), and a younger John Lessley (a son). John's family appears immediately before the family of his son, James Elkins Lessly (name is listed as James Lestley in the census). John's younger son later appears in the 1870 Randolph County, MO census nearby the family of James Elkins Lessly. This younger John (known in official records as John M. Lessly) also serves in the Confederate Army in the same regiment and company as James Elkins Lessly and James' oldest son John Harris Lessly. About 1875 or 1876 the majority of the family of James Elkins Lessly migrated to Grayson County, TX. John M. Lessly accompanied them and he also settled in Grayson County. As far as I can determine, John Lessley does not appear in the 1860 census for Polk County, MO althought his wife Mary does.

Information obtained from Tim Lessley indicates that John died on June 5, 1858, which would account for his absence in the 1860 census. Tim also indicates that John bought land in Jessamine County, KY in 1808, apparently joining his brother, James, who had preceeded him by two years. An copy of an obituary for John Lessley states

John Lessly's Obituary Dated June 12, 1858,. Bolivar, MO The Bolivar
Weekly Courier.

DIED
At the residence of his son's, in this County, on the 5th inst., of inflammation of the bladder, Mr. JOHN LESSLY, in the 79th year of his age.

Mr. Lessly was an old and respected citizen amongst us -- a native of Virginia, born and raised at the Blue Springs, Cabel County. He crossed the "Blue Ridge" for the West above fifty years ago, and settled in Jessamine County, Kentucky, where he married and resided several years -- he then removed to Missouri, and settled in Howard County, where he lived, until the fall of 1845, when he removed to Polk County, in which he resided up to the time of his death.

From the will of John Lessley
I John Lesslie of the County of Polk and the State of Missouri being of sound mind do hereby make and publish this my last will and testament. I have before making this will given the following property to the following named children: to Abigail Larimere, wife of Dr. P. B. Larimere, a negro girl slave named Melvina the Bill of Sale being given to her husband said Pery B. Larimere. (To) Judith Lesslie (a) negro girl slave named Martha and her child Taylor. I have also given to said Judith Lesslie a negro man slave named Albert and I have also heretofore sold to said Judith Lesslie one negro man slave named William. I have also heretofore given to Almira Lessley a negro girl slave named George Ann. To Mary Yoast a negro boy slave named Garnet. To Almeda Lessley now Almeda Lindsay wife of Dr. James A. Lindsay a negro woman slave named Emeline. To Rebecca Nunifee negro girl slave named Caroline. To Andrew Lessley a negro boy slave named Charles. To James Lessley a negro boy slave named Arthur. To John M. Lessley negro boy named Jack also to John M. Lessley one sorrel mare and colt. And the aforesaid property at present is no part of my Estate. I have also by said dates April 7th, 1854 and duly recorded in the clerks office of Polk County conveyed to said John M. Lessley certain near Estate mentioned in said deed.

1st
I desire that all my debts be paid by my executors.

2nd It is my will and desire that my beloved wife Mary Lesslie shall have all my property I__ _____ of during her natural life

3rd It is my will and desire that after the death of my beloved wife that my son John M. Lesslie and James Lesslie have a certain negro boy slave named Aaron as their absolute property each of my said sons John M. and James Lesslie to have an equal interest in said slave Aaron.

4th My two slaves name Edy and Author I will and desire after the death of my wife be sold by my Executors herein after mentioned and out of the proceeds of said sale of said slaves I desire that my son Andrew Lessley be paid by my Executors the sum of Two Hundred Dollars and that my Executors pay out of the proceeds of said sale of said slaves to my daughter Almira Lessley the sum of Four Hundred dollars and after deducting said $200 and $400 from the proceeds of said sale of said slaves I desire that the balance be equally divided between my children Judith Lessley, Abigail Larimore wife of Perry B. Larimore, Mary Yoast wife of William Yoast, Almeda Lindsay wife of Dr. James A. Lindsay, Rebecca Nunifee wife of Richard Nunifee and Almira LEssley.

5th It is my will and desire that the remainder of my property not before disposed of after the death of my wife shall be equally divided between my children Andrew Lessley, Abigail Larimore, John M. Lessley, James Lessley, Mary Yoast, Almeda Lindsay, Rebecca Nunifee, Judith Lessley, and Almira Lessley.

6th It is my will and desire that should any of my children commune or establish any legal proceedings to interfere with or destroy the disposition of my property as I have of is that said child or children shall lose all benefits from my estate and the portion of his her or their given share be equally divided between my children who shall not attempt to interfere with or disturb the disposition I have made of my property.

7th I do hereby Constitute and appoint Wm. H. Otter and Thomas Higganbotham Executors of this my last will and Testament.

In testimony whereof I John Lessley have serve to subscribe my name and affixed my seal this 28th November AD 1854.

Tim Lessley writes
Francis Guren is the name of the man that bought Johns land A. Guren is possibly one of his children. the interesting thing about the Guren
family is the family cemetery. Its marked on the 7&1/2 minute map of the area and its on the land that was Johns. I haven't found any record of John buying this parcel its possible he acquired it from James I believe its also possible that James first wife is buried there. (That's one of my holy grail's), It's five miles south of higbee and two miles south of James place.

James and I think John lived on Tates creek road in Jessamine that road forms the boundary between Fayette and jessamine I haven't pinpointed the location yet but it looks like they lived closer to lexington than Nicholasville.

Spouse: Polly ZIMMERMAN. Polly ZIMMERMAN and John LESSLY were married on 29 March 1813 in Jessamine County KY.^963,964 Children were: Judith LESSLY, Abigale LESSLY, Mary M. LESSLY, James Elkins LESSLY, Almeda LESSLY, Rebecca LESSLY, Andrew LESSLY, Almira LESSLY, John M. LESSLY.

John E. Leslie aged 27 years died by his own hands. He blew out his brains with a shotgun. The official obituary stated that "No reason can be assigned by relatives for the rash act, other than ill health and despondency." However several family members have stated that John was in love with a woman of whom his mother did not approve and this was the reason for his suicide. The inscription on John's tombstone reads "Tho lost to sight to memory dear." Parents: John Harris LESSLY and Mary James DAVIS.

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In the 1850 census for Polk County, MO, John appears in as a child in his father's household. His age is listed as 6 and his place of birth as Missouri.

In the printed account of the 1860 census for Polk County, MO, John appears as a minor in his father's household. His age is listed as 16 and his place of birth as Missouri.

In the 1870 census for Randolph County, MO, John appears as a member of his father's household. His age is listed as 25, his occupation as farmer, and his place of birth as Missouri.

John appears in the 1880 census for Grayson Co., TX in District 16, Precinct 8, page 391 D. (NA film # T9-1307). His name appears as "J. H. Leslie". His age is listed as 36, his place of birth as Missouri, and his occupation as Farmer. His father's birthplace is listed as Virginia and his mother's as Kentucky. Also appearing in the household are his wife, Mary J., and children Daisey, Ellen, Emma, Florence and John.

The information from all census records confirm family information on John's birthdate and place of birth.
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John's children Lula and John Embry were twins. John's children Cora and Carl were twins.
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A Mrs. John Harris Lessley applied for a Confederate Pension. The pension number was 42626 and the County was Grayson, TX. John's widow states that John served in the Confederate Army from August 1862 to the close of the war. She also states that John served in Company G, 11th Regiment, Missouri Infantry.

Records from the War Department Adjutant General's Office were used in the Confederate Pension application of John's widow. The letter states
"The records show that J. H. Lessley, not borne as John H. Lessley, Pvt. Company G, 11 Missouri Inf. C.S.A. (Confederate States Army) enlisted August 10, 1962 at Camp Cooper, Arkansas, and on muster roll for Jan. & Feb. 1864, (last on file) is shown present. His name appears on a List of Killed, wounded or missing of 4th Brigade Missouri Vols. at the battle of Helena, Ark, (July 4, 1863). List dated Camp Bayou Matoe, July 28, 1863, on which he is shown: Wounded severly. His name appears on a Roll of Prisoners of War, as Corp. Co. G, 11 Reg't. Mo. Vol. Inf. C.S.A., commanded by Lt. T.W. Simpson, surrendered at New Orleans, La., by General E.K. Smith, C.S.A. to Maj. Gen. E.R.S. Canby, U.S.A. May 26, 1865, and paroled at Alexandria, La. June 7, 1865."

A second letter states
"The records show that one John L. Lessley, (not borne as J. H. Laslie), Pvt. Co. G, 11th Regt. Missouri Inf., formerly known as Hunter's and the 8th, Reg't., Mo. Inf. C.S.A., enlisted Aug. 10th, 1862 at Camp Cooper, Arkansas, and on muster roll for Jan. & Feb. 1864 (last on file) is shown present. Name appears with rank of Corpl. on a roll of Prisoners of War, surrendered by Gen. E.K. Smith, C.S.A. to Gen E.R.S. Canby U.S.A., May 26th, 1865, and paroled at Alexandria, La., June 7th, 1865. Residence shown as Polk County, Missouri.
Captain M.W. Mitchell is shown to have been in command of the above company."

A database at Ancestry.com lists a John H. Lessly - Company G, Unit 11th Missouri Infantry, Rank at Induction - Private, Rank at Discharge - Corporal, Notes Lessley, John H., Box # 000380, EXCT # 0009, Record # 00001637 Parents: James Elkins LESSLY and Emily HARRIS.

Spouse: Mary James DAVIS. Mary James DAVIS and John Harris LESSLY were married on 31 January 1871 in Howard County, MO.^624,627 Listed in marriage records as John H. Lesley and Mollie J. Davis Children were: Daisy Gray LESSLY, Nora Ellen LESSLY, Emma Bell LESSLY, Mary LESSLY, Florence James LESSLY, Forest M. LESSLY, John Embry William LESSLY, Lula Clyde LESSLY, Sarah Kathryn LESSLY, Cora Amanda LESSLY, Carl LESSLY.

John appears in the 1870 census for Randolph Co., MO, page 182 A, Prairie Township. His name appears as "John M. Lessly". His age is listed as 29, his occupation as farmer and his place of birth as Missouri. The value of his real estate is listed as $250.00. Also appearing in John's household is a Judith Lessly (his sister?) and a Francis J. Lessly age 9 (his daughter ?). The age stated for John in this census is in conflict with the age stated in the 1850 census and on John's Confederate pension application. John is listed on the same census page as his brother James Elkins Lessly.

John appears in the 1880 census for Hunt Co., TX (Precinct 5, page number 547 C, NA film # T9-1312, FH Library Film # 1255312). His age is listed as 43, his occupation as Farmer and his place of birth as Missouri. His father's birthplace is listed as Virginia and his mother's birthplace is listed as Kentucky. Also appearing in the household are his wife, Adaline, and children James F., Stella M., and Nettie A.

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Information from John's Confederate Pension Application (#7220) is very interesting. He states his age as 63 (the date is Nov 1899) which confirms the age listed for John in the 1850 Polk County, MO census record. He also says that he has resided in Grayson County, TX for 25 years. This would put the time of the Lessly families move from Missouri to Texas at about 1874 or 1875. It also closely corresponds to information provided on the widow's pension application of Mrs. John H. Lessly. She filed the application in 1926 and said that she had been a resident for 50 years of Grayson County, TX. Again this puts the Lessly family move at about 1875. John states in his pension application that he is in feeble condition and not able to support himself thru labor. He also states that causes contributing to his condition were "exposure during the war and a wound received then". John states that the company and regiment he served in were "Company G, Eleventh Missouri Infantry". The stated time of his service is 3 years. This is the exact company and regiment that John H. Lessly's widow stated her husband served in. Further John H. Lessly turns out to be one of 2 witnesses called to testify to John M. Lessly's Confederate service. John H. Lessly's signature appears on the affidavit of witnesses. The other witness is T.B. Jernigan.

The paperwork for John's Confederate Pension Application includes some Company Muster Rolls on which John's name appears. John's name (J. M. Lessley) appears as a private on the Company Muster Roll for Company G, 8 Reg't Missouri Infantry for March & April 1863, April 30 to Aug 31 1863, and Company G, 11 Reg't Missouri Infantry, Jan & Feb 1864. He is stated as having enlisted on Aug 10, 1862 at Camp Cooper, Ark by J.J. Farley. Also a John M. Lessly, Pvt., appears on a Roll of Prisoners of War of Company G, 11th Regiment MO. Vol. Infantry Confederate States Army, commanded by Lt. T.W. Simpson, surrendered at New Orleans, La, by General E.K. Smith, C.S.A., to Maj. Gen. E.R.S. Canby, U.S.A., May 26, 1865, and paroled at Alexandria, La., June 7, 1865.

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Information printed by N.B. Forrest Mc Guire specifically names John M. Lessly as accompaning the James Elkins Lessly family to Grayson County, TX. John shows up near James Elkins and family in the 1850 and 1870 census records as well as the same Confederate unit. Family speculation for years has placed John M. Lessly as a close relative of James Elkins. Research done by Tim Lessley, indicates that John M. was the younger brother of James Elkins. John M. is named as a son in the will of John Lessley as is James Lessly. This would seem to confirm that John M. and James Elkins were brothers.

A descendant of John M. Lessly is L.D. Lessly - address 1030 W. Gandy St. #3
Denison, TX 75020-3390 903-465-5544

Is listed in the 1880 Texas census Hunt County page 547, twp E.D. 70
He may be listed in the 1860 Missouri census Polk County - page 48, Marion Township, ID# MO06068215

a John M. Lessly is listed in a database at Ancestry.com - Company G, Unit 11th Missouri Infantry, Rank at Induction - Private, Rank at Discharge - Private, notes Lssley John M., Box # 000380, EXCT # 0009, Record # 00001638

Notes from Freddy Lessly
John M. Lessly, my great-grandfather, is buried in the small confederate section of Westhill Cemetary in Sherman, Texas. I have tried really hard to find out what the M. stands for, but it is always listed as John M. and never anything else. If you meant 13 years instead of 13 months for the 1850 census, then, yes, the age is exactly right for the John M. to have been my great grandfather. I would almost bet the farm on it (that farm we inherited in Missouri along with those Negros) that he was the John M. which was the son of John and Mary. It sounds like he may have been the oldest. He got married to Margaret Elizabeth Marsh on January 26, 1860. She was age 19 in 1860. She was the daughter of John F. and Alcana D. Wisdom Marsh. Margerat E. was born in Missouri on November 17, 1843. John M.'s age on the 1860 census was 23. His post office was in Boliver of the Marion Township. He showed his home state as Tennessee. She showed her home state as Missouri. One child was born to the union, Fannie, who was born in 1860. Margaret Elizabeth died before John M. could get home from the civil war. John M. went to Texas after the civil war and left his daughter Fannie for the Marsh family to raise. On March 19, 1874, he married Adaline C. McPherson in Grayson County Texas. Adaline was born in Texas in 1852. Her parents were William W. and Elizabeth McPherson. Adaline Mcpherson died early in her life, possibly between 1875 and 1885. I have never been able to find her grave. (She was my great-grandmother). John M. and Adaline had three children, Fred James Lessly (my grandfather) born December 12, 1874 and the two daughters Stella and Nettie. This is about where I am at on all of this. Again, John Harris Lessly was a witness for my great grandfathers pension and it seems that he must have came to Grayson County Texas with James Elkins and his bunch. He once listed his home as Pottsboro Texas the same as James Elkins and his children. He later lived in Denison, Texas (about 7 miles from Pottsboro) where he died at the home of my grandfather Fred J. Lessly. He died poor, and in broken health according to records. His occupation was always listed as a farmer. (I don't know what happened to those slaves after the war). He died in 1906 and his son Fred died in 1918, so as you can see, they were gone a long time before I came along in 1945. Any information that we can share will be greatly appreciated and enjoyed.

Hope to hear from you soon:

Freddy! Parents: John LESSLY and Polly ZIMMERMAN.

Spouse: Margaret Elizabeth MARSH. Margaret Elizabeth MARSH and John M. LESSLY were married on 26 January 1860. Children were: Fannie J. LESSLY.

Spouse: Adaline C. MACPHERSON. Adaline C. MACPHERSON and John M. LESSLY were married on 19 March 1874 in Grayson Co., TX. Children were: Fred James LESSLY, Stella M. LESSLY, Nettie A. LESSLY.

On the Broderbund Archive #5 a Judith Lessley is listed as marrying a Samuel West on 29 July 1855 in Polk County.

In the 1860 Missouris census for Polk County a Judith West is listed in the household of Mary Lessley. This is presumably the same Judith of the 1850 census. Judith's birthplace in the 1860 census is also listed as Kentucky however her age is listed as 45. Based on information from the 1850 census one would expect her to be about 39 or 40 not 45.

Judith may appears in the 1870 census for Randolph Co., MO. She appears in her brother's household, age 35 born in Kentucky. Parents: John LESSLY and Polly ZIMMERMAN.

Spouse: Samuel WEST. Judith LESSLY and Samuel WEST were married on 29 July 1855 in Polk County, MO.⁹³⁸