"About twenty-two years have passed since David N. Friend came to the enterprising west, and through a long period he has been actively connected with the business interests of Jasper County, Missouri. His labors have contributed largely to its growth and upbuilding, and he is now regarded as one of the leading mine owners and residents of the locality.
Mr. Friend is a native of Macoupin County, Illinois. Leaving his native place, he removed to Pittsburg, Kansas, where he remained for twelve years, during which time his was engaged in the implement and buggy business. Five years ago his cast in his lot with the settlers of Jasper County, Missouri, where he have been since interested in mining operations, and for the past two years he has prospected on his own account. He is now superintendent of the United Zinc Company, which owns eighty acres of land at Chitwood Hollow, where they are operating three mines, Brooklyn, Pelican, and Cock Robin. The mills have a capacity of one hundred tons each, and the six shafts are two hundred feet in depth. The Pelican mine is one of the best producers in the locality, yielding more high graded ore than any other mines in the district. The company also own the King Jack, Conqueror, Silver Shield, the C. C., Hoosier, Bob Ingersoll and Lackawana, all of which are in operation and are extremely rich in their mineral deposits. Mr. Friend has also developed mines in Belleville, Galena and Duenweg, and at the latter place he has a lease of forty acres of land.
In his social relations he is a prominent member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias fraternity. His time and attention, however, are closely given to his business interests, and his industry enterprise and capable management are the important elements in his success.
