W. H. Akes, blacksmith and wagon maker, [Athens Township] section 3, is one of the leading mechanics of this section of country. He is a native of Jefferson County, Indiana, and was born October 5, 1852. He is a son of G. S. Akes, and with him he moved to Missouri when about ten years of age. Two years later, he came to Gentry County. He was reared on a farm, but subsequently turned his attention to his present trade, his father having followed the same occupation. Mr. Akes was married May 2, 1880, to Miss Mary E. Earnst, an estimable lady and daughter of Andrew Earnst. She was born in Gentry County, Missouri

The History of Gentry and Worth Counties, Missouri, National Historical Co., St. Joseph, Missouri, p. 294.