Fred P. Robinson

As printed in 1910

FRED P. ROBINSON.

Some writer, who is no doubt well informed upon the subject, has written that the first requisite for a citizen who shares the work of public life is. that he act disinterestedly, and the second is efficiency. Fred P. Robinson, the subject of this sketch, is the possessor of both of these attainments. It would be an agreeable pastime to write a record of the lives of such men as Mr. Robinson, comprehensive in detail and complete in scope. However, the best decades of a life in so short a sketch must be ignored, through the limitations of space. The subject of this sketch has been an earnest worker and his life is one of human progress, written in characters that are lasting.

Mr. Robinson was born in Maryville. Missouri, December 13, 1874. His father was Theodore Robinson, a native of Callaway county, Missouri, who came to Nodaway county in about 1848, locating at Maryville. Theodore Robinson was one of the rich contributors of mental and physical activity that the state of Missouri has given to the business classes of the West. Orphaned early in life, he was the founder of his own fortune through until ing perseverance. He commenced life as a clerk, and later established himself in the mercantile business. Those who knew him speak of his devotion to principles, his unswerving fidelity and great patience. During the last thirty years of his life he was identified with the Nodaway Valley Bank of Mary ville, first as cashier, and later as its president. He was for many years president of the school board, and took an active interest in every branch of progress, especially with that affecting the community of Maryville. He died in May, 1894, at the age of sixty-three years. His wife, whose maiden name was Rebecca J. Ray. came to Missouri with her parents at the age of seven, the family locating on the present site of Maryville. Mrs. Robinson survived her husband and is now a resident of Maryville. Seven children were born to this couple, and three only are living, namely: James B.. president of the Nodaway Valley Bank; Fred P., the subject of this sketch, and Jennie. Theodor Robinson’s private life was characterized by generous charities and a love of hospitality, which welcomed his friends to his home. His ability and faithful interest made his loss greatly felt in the community.

The father of Fred P. Robinson left the imprint of his active intellect and tireless industry upon his son. The education the latter received in the public and high schools of Maryville, supplemented by the experience and study of mature years, made of him an active citizen, precise in business, in flexible in integrity and thoroughly respected. He went into the Nodaway Valley Bank as a clerk at the age of nineteen years and three years later he became its cashier, which position he held until he was elected mayor of the city, April 3, 1907. Mr. Robinson is, at the present time, vice-president of the bank. He was elected mayor as an independent, and he has been a forceful executive in administering municipal affairs. Innumerable improvements have been made during his administration. Concrete walks have been placed where unsightly board structures were formerly and public interest has been served conscientiously. Mr. Robinson served in the city council during the years of 1901-2 and, as chairman of the street committee, he directed twelve miles of brick paving. He was first elected mayor to fill an unexpired term and his re-election followed for a full term of three years, which expired in April, 1910. After leaving the mayor’s chair, Mr. Robinson took up the practice of law, having taken the state bar examination and being admitted to the bar in May, 1910.

Mr. Robinson was married April 23, 1895, to Mary Miller, daughter of John S. and Catharine Miller, she having been born near Guilford, Nodaway county, this state. Three children have been born to them, of whom Mildred and Virginia are living.

Mr. Robinson and wife are members of the Christian church. He is congenial and companionable in his nature, and belongs to Lodge No. 760, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, of which he is past exalted ruler; he is also a Mason of high degree, being present eminent commander of Mary ville Commandery, No. 40, Knights Templar, also worshipful master of Nod away Lodge, No. 470, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, and a member of Chapter No. 96, Royal Arch Masons.

The “set up" of Mr. Robinson (as a soldier would say) is distinctly pleasing. His face shows a contented mind and indicates that envy is a stranger to his heart. He is today the possessor a well-earned competence, but his greatest possession is the esteem and respect of a large number of friends.

As printed in Past and present of Nodaway County, Missouri (1910). See the original pages. Wording is the original; obvious scanning errors have been corrected, and a few may remain.