Eugene H. Spratt

As printed in 1898

EUGENE H. SPRATT, collector of Buchanan county, is an example of what energy and enterprise is possessed by the native sons of Buchanan county. In Blooniington township, Buchanan county, on August 17, 1858, Mr. Spratt was born. He is the son of James B. Spratt, a wealthy farmer

1875. He attended the common schools of the district and for a time went to the Leavenworth, Kan., high school, which, with an extensive course of reading, and his natural keen observation, has qualified him for almost any business position. Mr. Spratt's first office was that of deputy and stock grower, who came to this county from Kentucky in 1843, a poor man, but who, by industry and good judgment, gained riches. His mother's maiden name was Elizabeth Spencer, a daughter of the late O. M. Spencer. Mr. Spratt's early life was spent on the homestead and he here gained a practical knowledge of all the details of farming, which enabled him to manage affairs after the death of his father, who was killed in sheriff under James L. Spencer, to which he was appointed in 1878, and which he held for two years. He then clerked for Woolworth & Colt, book dealers, for two years, returning to the farm in 1882, where he remained until 1888, when he was elected sheriff on the Democratic ticket, and to which office was re-elected by an overwhelming majority in 1890. On retiring from the sheriff's office he dealt in real estate till 1896, when he was elected county collector. He was re-elected in 1898, and is therefore now serving his second term in this important office. Mr. Spratt is an ideal campaigner. Of pleasant manners and extensive acquaintance he is an indefatigable worker, and never rests a moment from the day of nomination till the election is over. His administration of the public offices entrusted to him has been all that could be desired, and his books are scrupulously kept.

are three children living: Susa, 14; Eva, II, and Nellie, 9; three are dead. Mr. Reynolds is now engaged at the Hotel Donovan.

As printed in The Daily news' history of Buchanan County and St. Joseph, Mo. From the time of the Platte purchase to the end of the year 1898. Preceded by a short history of Missouri. Supplemented by biographical s (1898). See the original pages. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.