In 1868, at the age of 20 years, John W. Drayton, finished his conscription in the English Army. He was the heavyweight-boxing champion of the army. He sailed for America and after landing, continued west to Oelwein, Iowa. He worked there as a bricklayer and carpenter.
He married Sarah A. Hanson in November 1874. About 1876, he headed west to Nebraska arriving in an area near Orchard. John returned to Iowa and some time later moved his family to the new land. Their son, Henry H. Drayton was now almost four years old.
When they arrived, they were surprised to see about 500 Indians camped in the valley. They had no problems with them. The Indians did not like the Rosebud Reservation but were finally escorted back by the U S Cavalry. In 1885 the railroad reached the area and the family moved to Ewing so the children could attend school. By now the family had grown: Henry H; Fred; Alice; Ivan; Lee; Lloyd; and Gwen. Henry married Mable Hearsh; Fred married Alma Howard; Ivan married Nellie Jans; Lee married Mae Marshall; Lloyd married Nellie King; Gwen married Mr. Link.
Source Unknown: Originally submitted for this website in June 2007