spring planting. it was a loss and heartache.
     On their return to west Jackson, they made a home near their daughter, Mrs. Louisiana Kroth, which has been known these many, many years as Frank and Fannie Kroth's farm.
     Profits from the farm were slow to accumulate so Uncle Jacob (as his family affectionately called him) used his trade as cabinet maker in addition to other building. He supplied the need of neighborhood in times of death by making caskets. Henry Kroth brought new materials on his trip to Leavenworth for the older gentleman to use. The wooden caskets, held together with screws and hinges, were covered with black or white velvet.
     When Grandpa Jacob was in his early 60's, he walked north of the barn at his home to find a suitable place to plant some apple trees, the beginning of an orchard. He stopped on a level place, a top a low hill, and asked the boys if they thought it would be a nice spot to start a cemetery for the family.
     Death claimed Grandfather Loughmiller at the age of 68, in 1877, and he was buried in the little grass plot that he had designated. Grandmother lived to be 78 and was buried by her husband's side. The plot that was an orchard and a little cemetery in that early day was reserved by Frank Kroth, when he sold the farm and moved to Havensville. Robert Loughmiller set four hedge posts in cement to form corners of the plot, then used wire netting to fence the quarter of an acre. It is legally in the name of Kroth. Bittersweet vines climb over and obscure the graves from view of passer-bys, but two tall cedars stand sentinel there and travelers or neighbors in that vicinity speeding by in cars seldom see the tiny place where the two worn bodies were lain to rest. The minds picture of the man who hunted a place to plant apple trees, though he was aged and frail from pioneer living, fits this little quotation. "They who have learned to live, plant wisely tho they may never reap." It denotes uncomprising fidelity and trust in God's word and wisdom of men like him who laid the foundation of the west and builded well.

ROBERT BRAINARD LOUGHMILLER

     Robert Brainard Loughmiller, older son of Aurelia and Jacob Loughmiller, and brother of Louisiana Kroth, was born in New Ilbany, Indiana, October 27, 2845. He came to Easton, Kansas, with his parents and family, then later in his teens the family moved to a farm near James Crossing in Jackson County.
     Hard times prevailed for a number of years and the family again moved this time to the place which is best known as the Frank Kroth farm.
     Robert was married to Martha Ann James. She came with her mother from Pembrokshire, Wales, to settle on English Ridge. Five children were born to Martha and Robert. They attended Buck's Grove Church and School and grew to maturity as respected


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