William Elsey Connelley

“ Of the agriculturists of Shawnee County who have been the architects of their own fortunes, and who, from small beginnings, have worked their way to independence and position, Joseph W. Cochran is a leading representative. He began his career without advantages of any kind, and his early struggles to gain a foothold,necessitated the use of all his energies, but his present fine farm of 107 acres, in Menoken Township, illustrates what may be gained through the exercise of industry and well directed effort. ”

“ Leaving his family at the immigration home at Salina, with but 75 cents, he walked thirty-five miles to the home of a friend, in Lincoln County, and during his absence the mother and children were sorely in need of food. ”