Mr. J. G. Sands was born at Gilbertstown, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, August 21, 1833. He had a common school education until he was thirteen years of age. After trying his hand at several things, he learned the saddler’s trade.

In 1855, he came to Kansas and stayed in Lawrence.

At first he could not find work at his trade. He decided to start business for himself with a capital of one dollar. By industry and integrity, he soon commanded a good business. He moved into a good building, giving up his little shop. He added saddles and other stock and had a growing business until Sheriff Jones and his posse raided Lawrence, May 21, 1856, when his shop was sacked.

Beginning anew, his business improved as the city continued to thrive, until Quantrill’s Raid occurred, August 21, 1863. The fine saddle and harness shop which eight years of economy and hard work had built up was laid in ruins. Everything was gone except a good name, however, his credit was unimpaired, so he stocked up for the third time. This time he prospered in business. He sold saddles to Texas cowboys and harnesses for the stage horses of the Rockies.

In 1860, Mr. Sands married Miss Susie E. Brown of New Hampshire. They made a pleasant and happy home for themselves and their five children.

This picture had belonged to Miss Virginia Edwards and were given to the library by Miss May and Miss Emma Savage in 1929.