George Bradford came with others from Indiana to Independence at the close of the Civil War, travelling together by covered wagons. Their land, preempted in Section 34, later known as the Kowalke farm, lay next to Gustav Johnson's on the west. They were near neighbors of the Stinsons. There were seven children, three boys and four girls, all living at home at the time their home burned to the ground. The family of nine were made welcome at the John Stinson and Gustave Johnson homes until a new building could be made ready with the help of neighbors. Mr. Bradford died October 29, 1895. He and his wife Ellen are buried in Lewis Cemetery. Kate, the last known member of the family died in Great Falls, Montana in 1957. Percy Bradford, only son of John Bradford, lived most of his life in this community and passed away while visiting in Florida.
