Post Office, Kidder
It is a common error to suppose that biography is useful only when applies to extraordinary men; it is often objected of particular lives that they are not distinguished by any striking or wonderful vicissitudes. This error, however must be eradicated when we consider that in the esteem of uncorrupted reason that is of most use, is of most value. What is vitally important all have an interest in understanding, hence he who has done the most to meet the wants of the many in different capacities is a subject above all other for that biography which promises and establishes the most good for the greatest numbers.
The reader is here presented with a plain sketch of an unassuming, useful man, a man who is entitled to be invested with all the commendable elements of character which truth can furnish for having made a diligent use of his talents.
William Plumb was born in Preston County, Virginia (now West Virginia), March 14, 1821. His father, Jacob Plumb, was also a Virginian by birth, in which state he followed the double occupations of physician and farmer. His grandfather, William Plumb, was Captain of a company in the Revolutionary War, and also a contractor for army supplies, and enterprise in which he lost about $50,000 through the depreciation of Continental Scrip. William had three brothers and two sisters, the latter being deceased. One brother, Jacob, also died in Virginia in 1862. John another brother, is a Baptist minister and Eugene, the youngest is a farmer; both reside in West Virginia.
In 1840 the subject of this sketch left Virginia and settled in southern Ohio, where he lived till 1844, then settling in Caldwell county, Missouri. In 1846 he went to Mexico and joined the United States forces in repressing a revolt, in which a number were killed. In 1847 he entered the employ of the government as express carrier in New Mexico, also having charge of the grazing camps of government stock for two years. In 1850 he started for California, via of Chihauhau and Durango, the journey occupying thirty two days.
Returning to Missouri in 1853, Mr. Plumb resumed farming. At the outbreak of the War in 1861 he raised a company of Union troops of which he was elected Captain, and for meritorious conduct at the battle of Lone Jack was promoted to Major. It was at this battle he received serious wounds and was confined in a temporary hospital when it was assaulted and burned by the enemy, he was among the foremost however, in repelling that murderous attack and in caring for those more severely injured than himself.
Mr. Plumb is a man of indomitable will and courage. His life has been one of great usefulness, and as he approaches his declining years he can look back on his past career seeing much to appreciate and at the same time some things to regret. But as a whole his life has been one of which he may well be proud. In the company of his estimable wife and worthy children he now lives upon his finely improved farm, enjoying the unbound esteem of all who know him.