Person:John Duston (3)

Biography

History of Caldwell and Livingston Counties, Missouri (1886), p. 277-278 [John Duston is mentioned in the following biography of his son, John Henry Duston, excerpted below] John Henry Duston (Farmer, Section 14, Post-office, Kingston) Mr. Duston's farm of 340 acres is one of the finest for successful agricultural purposes to be found in this part of the township, and the manner in which it is conducted is in full keeping with the personal characteristics of its owner, a man of great energy, determination and of much perseverance. For over 30 years he has resided upon his present place, having entered it in 1852, and his entire life since that time has been spent in attending strictly to his chosen calling. By so doing he has done much to advance the reputation for it is a sturdy, intelligent and energetic class of citizens who give life to any portion of a country. From the age of 10 years Mr. Duston has made this county his permanent home, though when 19 years old he went to Galesburg, Ill., and entered as a student the well known Knox College. In 1849 he took an overland trip to California and remained in that far-off land (as it was then considered) for two years, not however without substantial evidences of success. In 1852 he returned to this county and has continued to reside here, as mentioned above. The family of Dustons are of English origin, the first record we have of them in this country showing that they settled in New Hampshire. John's father, also John Duston, removed from that State to New York, locating in Oneida county. He was a soldier in the War of 1812. His marriage occurred in Whitesboro, N. Y., when Miss Sophia, daughter of Judge White, became his wife. He it was from whom the town of Whitesboro took its name. In about the year 1820 John Duston removed to St. Louis, Mo., and after leaving there settled in Saline county, and later in Lafayette county. In that vicinity he remained until 1838, when he came to Caldwell county, being among the pioneers here. He was a civil engineer by profession, and as such his services were in frequent demand. He enjoyed an extensive acquaintance and was highly respected. Of his family of eight grew to maturity. John Henry, the fifth child, was born in Saline county, Mo., on the 9th day of September, 1827.

1. ↑ History of Caldwell and Livingston Counties Missouri. (St. Louis: National Historical Company: 1886)
   277.