Expert of the book "Writer and Engraver's Picture of Graham County's Progress Since Its Organization" (1906)

John Stanfil

(Pages 60-62)

"Progress" is an excellent watchword. It denotes so many things ambition, energy and thrift. A business built upon such a foundation is sure to grow and thrive.

Mr. John L. Stanfil an extensive farmer living twenty miles northwest of Hill City is typical of the word "progress."

In 1879 when Mr. Stanfil was but seven years old he came with his parents to Graham County from Kentucky. He grew up amid the hardships and privations which came with making a home in Graham county in the early 80's, and when in 1896 he left the home place and began work for himself he was amply able to cope with all difficulties.

At the time of his marriage ten years ago, he had but 80 acres of school land. Later he bought a half section for $1000 and a quarter section for $2000 and has recently closed a deal which adds another half section to his place. Today Mr. Stanfil's 640 acres are worth $30 and acre, 450 acres of the farm are under cultivation with the greater part of it devoted to the growing of wheat and the average yearly output for the last 3 years has been 10,000 bushels.

Without a question Mr. Stanfil's farm is one of the best improved places in the county. Two years ago he built a fine eleven room home which cost him some $2000. To the west of the main residence has recently been built a house for his tenant who farms 160 acres of the place. The largest and finest barn that we have seen throughout our trip over the country is on Mr. Stanfil's place. It is a mammoth structure that can be seen for miles around, and the inside is as remarkable as the outside, with its immense hay mow above and many roomy stalls below.

Although Mr. Stanfil is more distinctly a farmer than a stock man he has twenty-five head of fine cattle and sixteen head of good horses. In making his many improvements he has not forgotten the trees which add beauty and usefulness to a place and has set out 200 thrifty fruit trees.

Though Mr. Stanfil is but 34 years of age he owns one of the best farms in the county and his career shows what honesty and industry and thrift will do. He and his wife are thoroughly satisfied with Graham county and think it is a good place to rear their two bright and attractive sons.

And Graham county appreciates Mr. Stanfil's worth as fully as he appreciates its worth as is shown by his recent appointment as county commissioner to fill unexpired term of Mr. Porter. So great is the satisfaction the there is no doubt of Mr. Stanfil's election to the same office in 1906.