Raymond D. Pennewell (1898-1982), Palmyra, Missouri

Raymond Pennewell was a prominent dairy leader and Guernsey breeder. Few men equaled his success as a farmer. Throughout his life he devoted much time to programs that benefited his fellow men and agriculture in general.

His earlier farm operations involved hogs, cattle and crops. He was a several times winner of the “Ton of Pork” program in Missouri. About 1928 Mr. Pennewell and his wife Florence began with Guernseys by the purchase of a few head from local breeders. They proceeded to build an outstanding herd of about 250 head of registered cattle in the next 20 years. The herd was continuously on DHI test and the best sires available were used. Cattle were exhibited at local shows and the Missouri State Fair. The Pennewells were ardent supporters of Guernsey activities in Marion county and throughout the state. The Pennewell farm is known as Pleasant View Farm and the herd prefix was Flo-Ray. As in true of many, his farming operations were started from scratch.

Raymond Pennewell was one of the most active and able farm leaders in Missouri history. For many years he served as a Director and President of the Missouri Guernsey Breeders Association. He was instrumental in the formation of a strong state association and founding the state sale in 1938. His interest and support of Guernseys continued throughout his lifetime, though the herd was sold some years ago as he and Mrs. Pennewell advanced in age.

Mr. Pennewell, in spite of extensive dairy and farming operations, devoted much time and effort to the improvement of the welfare of farm people. He was one of the original incorporators of the Missouri Rural Elective-Cooperative and had served as the only president since its organization in 1936. He was former chairman of the board of Northeast Electric; Power Cooperative and secretary and director of Associated Electric Cooperative of Missouri.

He was the long time president and a board member of Sanitary Milk Producers, St. Louis; a board member of the Production Credit Association, and on the Federal Land Bank board. He also served as a director of the Palmyra State Bank. For many years he was a director of the Missouri Farm Bureau and the Marion County Soil Conservation Service, and the Agriculture Stabilization and Conservation Service. He served seven years on the Missouri Livestock Disease Control Board and was recognized for his efforts in 1965 by the Missouri Veterinary Medical Association. He was a member of the Palmyra United Methodist Church and former chairman of the church board.

A son of Charles W. and Rebeeca Paynter Pennewell, he was born December 11, 1898, in Palmyra. He married Florence Plymate of Quincy, Illinois, on March 27, 1920. Mrs. Pennewell was always active in the conduct of the cattle and farming operations as well as assisting Raymond in his many civic endeavors. She survives.