From Goodsped's History of Southeast Missouri
Page 1059.

John SOWDERS another successful farmer of Popular Bluff Township was born in Edmonson County KY in 1852 and is son of Isaac and Avan (Amos) SOWDERS natives of Kentucky born in 1828 and 1830 respectfully.  Soon after marriage they settled in Butler Co., KY, and in 1881 he came to Butler Co, MO, where their mother died in 1884. The father is still living and follows agricultural pursuits for a living. John SOWDERS was 3rd of 8 children. He was reared in Butler Co., KY with little education and in 1872 married Miss Martha, daughter of John Gamble. She was born in Warren (?) Co KY, and by her marriage became the mother of 2 children Martha F. and Anna F. Mr. SOWDERS removed to Butler Co KY in 1880 and settled on Black River near Hillyard with about 10 acres cleared.

This information was provided by Kathy Jones. It was handwritten and some things aren't clear.