Robert Douglas Brunton

BRUNTON

Posted By: County Coordinator (email)
Date: 5/4/2010 at 09:24:14

Robert Douglas Brunton who passed away March 26, 1906, was a citizen who had many war personal friends in Boone and therefore, his death was the occasion of deep and widespread regret. His history is that of a man who worked his way upward by persistent purpose and honorable effort until he became recognized as one of the leading representatives of the coal industry in his section of the state. He was born in Fordle, Scotland on October 9, 1842, a son of William and Janet (Douglas) Brunton, who spent their entire lives in the land of hills and heather. In their family were four sons, two of whom died in infancy, while two came to the new worked, one of them being still living.
Robert D Brunton spent the period of his minority in his native land an in 1864 crossed the Atlantic to America, making his way to Hubbard, Ohio. He afterward went to Pennsylvania and was employed in the coal mines of the two states. He later came to Boone, arriving in July 1875, from which time until his death he was connected with the coal industry, largely as superintendent of mines. During he last six years of his life he as less active. He was, however one of the best known practical coal men in this section of the state, becoming recognized as an expert in operating coal land and thereby winning most gratifying success. In business he was honest, faithful and efficient, and he left a comfortable competence and home to his family.
On January 2, 1865, Mr Brunton was united in marriage to Miss Mary Marshall, of Bedford, Pennsylvania, a daughter of Robert and Agnes (Gardner) Marshall. Her father was also engaged as superintendent of mines. Following his demise his widow married again. There were seven children of the first marriage and four by the second, of whom six are yet living. To Mr and Mrs Brunton were born ten children: William who is engaged in the insurance business in West Boone, Agnes, the wife of Reid Duckworth, assistant cashier of the city Trust Savings Bank of Boone, Robert living in California, Joseph, of Boone, Jon who has departed this life, George who is mentioned elsewhere in this volume, Elizabeth a teacher, now living at home, Alexander, of Colorado, James of Boone, and Ruth deceased.
In his religious faith Mr Brunton was a Presbyterian and in his life exemplified his Christian life. He also belonged to the Masonic fraternity, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias, and the last named attended his funeral in a body. Many words of deep appreciation of his character and of his worth were spoken by those who knew him. He enjoyed the high regard of all with whom he came in contact, and his well spent life not only proved what may be accomplished in a business way but also gave indication the fact that success and an honored name may be won simultaneously.

1914 Boone County History Book