W. R. Read
W. R. Read was born in Keokuk, Iowa, January 30, 1848, and is the son of William C. and Elizabeth (Relfe) Read. The father was born in Fulton, Callaway Co., Mo., and was married to Miss Relfe, a daughter of James H. Relfe, in Washington County, Mo. He then removed to Iowa and there followed his profession, that of law, but had only remained there but a short time when he lost his wife. He then returned to Washington County, but not with the intention of making it his home, but from there started for California, going down the Mississippi in company with a number of friends from Fulton. After arriving in New Orleans he, with his friends, was on the top of the steamer viewing the beauties of the city, when the boiler exploded, and he was instantly killed. He was the father of two children, only one now living: William R. and James (deceased). William R. received good educational advantages, and took a thorough course in mathematics, but never completed the course sufficiently to receive a diploma. He also attended school for about two years in Fulton, Callaway, Co., Mo. December 24, 1874; he married Miss Lucy R. McGready, of Potosi, Mo., and daughter of W. E. and Eliza McGready, old settlers of Washington County. Mr. Read has followed merchandising since leaving school and has been in business where he is now located since 1871. He and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, and Mr. Read is a member of the Masonic fraternity.