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G. W. N. Elders, M. D., was born in Ste. Genevieve County, Mo., May 11,
1842 and is a son of Jesse and Elizabeth (Vandiver) Elders, of Scotch
and German descent, respectively, and natives of America.  He was reared 

on a farm, where he remained until his nineteenth year, receiving his 

literary education in the common schools and by private instruction.
He enlisted (as G. W. Elders) in Company K, Thirty-fifth Regiment Missouri 

Volunteer Infantry, Union army, and served ten months, being discharged on 

account of disability. In May, 1863 he entered upon the study of medicine 

under the preceptorship of Dr. E. N. Jennings, of Victoria.  After taking 

one course of lectures, in 1865-66 he commenced the practice of medicine 

as an undergraduate, at Cedar Hill, Jefferson County, continuing the same 

for about six years, after which he attended the Missouri Medical College, 

at St. Louis, where he graduated in 1872-73.  He removed from Cedar Hill 

to Hematite in the fall of 1881, where he has since been engaged in active 

practice.  July 4, 1866 he married Amanda M. Null, who was born August 12, 

1849 and is a daughter of John W. Null, Sr. of Jefferson County.  To Dr. 

and Mrs. Elders have been born ten children, nine of whom still live.  

Nina E. E., born August 7, 1867 died August 26, 1868; Rosa A., born March 24, 

1869; Louisa M., born October 3, 1870; George W. N., Jr., born May 31, 1872; 

William H., born April 2, 1874; Ellena M., born October 5, 1875; Lucy L., born
March 8, 1878; Francis C., born April 11, 1880; John W. N., born September 2, 

1883; Jessie M., born March 10, 1887.  The Doctor is a member of the A. O. U. W., 

and he and wife and two eldest daughters are connected with the Christian Church.  

In political matters he is a Democrat. He is the owner of three houses and lots 

in the village in which he resides.  His medical education was acquired by his 

own exertions, his sole capital being a suit of clothes and $40 in money.  He now 

enjoys a good practice, and has considerable money drawing interest.