Elder Ephraim McDaniel, the subject of our sketch, was born in Saline County, MO, 4 March 1822, and died near Lometa, TX, 14 Feb. 1899, lacking 18 days of being 77 years of age. He lost his mother when he was but a child and his grandparents had the care of him until he became of age. He was converted when he was about 20 years of age in 1841, was baptized in 1843, and in 1844 he was ordained a minister. He was twice married, the first being to Miss E. Holloway in 1845, who died a year later, and the last time to Miss Mary Ann Croslin in 1852. His first ministerial work was in Missouri, receiving only $19.25 for seven years salary.

He came to Texas in 1852 and resided in Williamson County near where Leander now is, and later in 1855, he settled in Burnet County, TX, where he remained until his death . When he first settled here this was a frontier country, especially during the war when Indians raided this country. All this never discouraged Elder McDaniel for he had a fleet horse and, armed with a six shooter and shotgun, he did missionary work over the territory now occupied by the San Saba, Perdinales and Llano River Associations. During the time he was doing this work, he had to labor on the farm part of the time, in order to feed, clothe and educate his family, for he received on an average less that $100 a year from four churches which he served a large portion of the time.

In 1854 he and his amiable companion united in the organization of Old Round Rock Church and served it as pastor for several years. In 1855 he assisted in organizing Zion Church, this county, and served as pastor of this and a newly organized church at Florence for several years. The sacrifices he endured on the frontier during this time have never been surpassed, being in danger day and night while traveling as a missionary.

It is useless for us to say much more about this man of God, for a more devout Christian never lived; in faithfulness, devotion, courage, kindness of heart, orthodoxy and industry he was pre-eminent. Where he followed dim trails over prairies and valleys and mountains there are villages, towns and cities, and where he once gathered little groups under the live oaks you will find churches and schoolhouses. This man of God and his works will ever be cherished by our people who had learned to love him during his stay among us. The seed he has sown will spring up and bear fruit for many years to come.