Pages 310-311

James T. England, engaged in the conduct of a first-class grocery and meat market in Chillicothe, is numbered among the well known and prominent merchants of the city, the wise management and capable control of his interests winning him a most gratifying success. Missouri numbers him among her native sons, for he was born in Grundy county, on the 23d of December, 1861, his parents being Socrates and Elizabeth (Smith) England, both natives of Kentucky. They took up their residence in Missouri in the year 1858 and there the father followed the blacksmith's trade for a number of years, finally locating in Chillicothe in 1865. There he established himself in business and continued active until his retirement in 1907. In this family were eight children: Lulu and John, who died in infancy; Sarah, who lives at home; James T., of this review; Albert, who is in the insurance business in Chillicothe; Lillie, who became the wife of C. E. Walton, of this city; Mont L., a jeweler of Chillicothe; and Della, who has passed away.

James T. England acquired his education in the public schools of Chillicothe and for some time attended high school. When he was sixteen years of age he obtained a position as clerk in a local dry-goods store and held this until 1891, laying the foundation for his future success in hard labor, intelligent study of methods and conditions and earnest endeavor. In 1898 he opened a grocery and meat market near the railroad station and has recently established another meat market on the square. He keeps his stock always fresh and of a high quality and the equipment of both stores is full and complete, his establishment being profitable and well patronized as the result.

In June, 1887, Mr. England was united in marriage to Miss Matilda Wittich, and to their union were born three children. Walter, a registered pharmacist in Chillicothe; Marvin, who is in business with his father; and Fenelle, who is attending Missouri University.

Mr. England is a starch democrat and progressive and public-spirited in all matters of citizenship, being a force in local politics. He was the first mayor of Laredo, Missouri, and served also as postmaster at Laredo, under appointment of President Cleveland. He has been a member of the Chillicothe city council for four terms, being now councilman at large. Fraternally he is affiliated with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Modern Woodmen of America and the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. His religious views are in accord with the doctrines of the Presbyterian church. He realizes the fact that success in business comes as a logical result of well directed effort and intelligently applied labor and his diligence, integrity and executive force have brought him to the creditable place he now occupies in business circles.

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