The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
John A.Pence, a son of John and Elizabeth Heaton Pence, was the first white child born 1830 within the bounds of Henderson County.
His playmates were Indians and his education meager.
In 1850 he went to California and remained there until 1859 returning home to Oquawka.
In 1861 he volunteered as a member of Co.D., 7th Mo. Cavalry, was wounded and taken prisoner by Quantrell's band, and then paroled.
In 1862 he married Miss Mary A. Chapen, daughter of Ebenezer and Catharine Daggett Chapen.
Mr. Pence gathered geological specimens and had one of the finest collections in the county.
1882 History of Henderson County