W. J. W. Kennedy (Biography)

[genealogynut]

Taken from History of the State of Kansas, by William G. Cutler

W. J. W. KENNEDY, sheep-raiser, P.O. Moline, was born in Ireland, in 1848, emigrated to America with his parents in 1850, locating in Clermont County, Ohio, remaining there until 1860, when they settled in Clay County, Ind., remaining there the most of the time until 1876, then to Wayne County, remaining there until the spring of 1880.  Was a miller and millwright by trade, and followed this business while in Indiana and Ohio; in 1880, came to Kansas, locating in Elk County, and bought a farm on Section 8, Township 31, Range 10, and went to sheep-raising; started with 195 head, which have increased 500 head in two years; the wool clip has been three and one-half pounds per head, and with the price of sheep now and the increase has made already on the investment 150 per cent, which he thinks is a good showing for any country.  Mr. Kennedy attends strictly to his business, and understands the details thoroughly, which a man must do to insure success in wool growing.  Was married in 1877, to Miss Sarah J. Porter, of Jefferson County, Ill.  They had one child--William P.  August 10, 1878.  Mrs. Kennedy died and in 1879, was married to Miss Margaret M. Porter, of the same county.  They have one daughter--Mary E.   Mr. Kennedy is a member of the Christian Church.