From History of Vernon County, Missouri. 1887, p. 776.

Without detriment to other citizens of Vernon County, it may with truth be said that no more worthy citizen has ever made his home in this portion of the county, and none are more deserving of honorable mention than John Fonburg. The following brief facts will serve to give an idea at least of the manner in which his successful life has been spent. Of foreign nativity, he was born November 17, 1836, in Switzerland, the son of Lewis Fonhurg (of French origin) and wife, the latter also of Swiss birth. John remained in his native country until some twelve years of age, when with his father he emigrated to the United States, settling first in Cook county, Ill. in 1849. In growing up he was made familiar with the details of agricultural life, and this occupation he continued to follow for some time, later entering the employ of the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad, in which he continued four years. The three following years were passed in steam boating on the Mississippi, and after this he resumed farming in Illinois, remaining so engaged for five years in Macoupin County, Tn. 1861 he was married to Miss Francis Genser, originally from Germany, and in 1867 they removed from their Illinois home to Vernon County, Mo., where they have since resided. Mr. F. has from that time to the present devoted himself to his chosen calling, and during this period has become recognized as among the county’s substantial citizens. He owns a fine farm of 320 acres, well improved, the surroundings of which indicate the good farmer that he is. His convenient, commodious buildings are kept in good repair, as is, indeed, everything about the place. One thing to which he gives no little attention, and one so universally neglected by the average farmer, is the raising of small fruits. Such has been Mr. F.’s career in life; commencing without means (he himself says he was without a dollar when he married) he has by his energy and the aid of his estimable wife and worthy family, secured a comfortable competency and desirable home — the abode of taste and refinement. He and his wife have been blessed with a family of six children: Charles E., Henry P., Leona B., John B., James M. and Frank Albert. Mr. Fonhurg stands to-day one of the industrious, intelligent and public—spirited men of this section. He is well informed on all subjects, and a man with whom it is a pleasure to meet.