After many years of active connection with agricultural interests of northeastern Oklahoma, Willie Longbone is now living retired at Dewey in the enjoyment of a substantial competence, acquired through close application and the capable management of his business interests. He is a native son of Oklahoma and a representative of one of the old and prominent families of the state. He was born in Washington County, December 18, 1868, of the marriage of dames and Susan (Washington) Longbone, the former a native of Kansas. The father came to Indian Territory in 1867, locating on a farm near Silver lake, in Washington county, where he continued to make his home until his demise, which occurred when his son Willie was but, three years of age. The mother subsequently remarried and is now the wife of Charles Elkhair, her home being at Copan. There were three children in the family of Mr. and Mrs. Longbone, two sons and a daughter, but the subject of this review is the only one of the children living, His brother’s name was Silas. His sister died in infancy.
Willie Longbone acquired his education in the mission schools of Oklahoma and on laying aside his textbooks he chose the occupation of farming, which he has since successfully followed. He now owns an eighty-acre farm six miles northeast of Dewey, while his wife has a tract of similar size adjoining his place, and oil has been developed on both properties. Mr. Longbone continued active in the cultivation and development of his farm until 1921, also engaging in the raising of stock, but is now living retired in his home being situated on Boudnat Street.
In October, 1898, Mr. Longbone was united in marriage to Miss Anna Wilson, who is also of Delaware extraction, and they have become the parents of four children. Emmett owns one hundred and seventy acres of land in Washington and Cherokee counties. He married Nellie Edwards; Jack owns one hundred and forty acres of land in eastern Oklahoma; Pearl and Lizzie are attending school at Dewey. For many years Mr. Longbone has made his home within the borders of this state, witnessing its rapid development as its rich resources have been exploited, and in the work of upbuilding he has borne his full share as an energetic, progressive and successful agriculturist, while his many admirable qualities have won for him the esteem and goodwill of an extensive circle of friends.
