HASTON L. ST. CLAIR
By W. M. Richman
R.R.1, Box 106, Holden, MO 64040, and Mark Ohlde, R.R.1, Palmer KS 66962.
Haston L. St. Clair of Holden, Missouri, steam enthusiast and frequent contributor to The Iron-Men Album, passed away on August 31, 1987, at the age of ninety-one.
St. Clair was known to many for his passion for steam engines, most especially those manufactured by the Reeves Company. He took great pleasure in the 1979 publication of his book Historical Stories About Reeves Engines. His father, Harvey St. Clair, was a thresherman who owned five Reeves outfit hence Haston's appreciation of them.
Haston L. St. Clair with a few of his beloved engines.
Another St. Clair interest was the design, construction, and promotion of model traction engines. His expert advice was sought by many who shared this interest, and he was always ready to give of the knowledge and skill he had gained from years of experience.
Born in Oak Grove, MO, in 1896, St. Clair served in France with the U. S. Army during World War I. After his discharge, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of Missouri. He served the School District of Kansas City, MO for many years as an Industrial Arts teacher, and retired in 1965. During his career he earned a Master's degree in Industrial Arts from his alma mater. Both within the school system and among fellow steam buffs, his gift for teaching was evident.
Haston L. St. Clair leaves behind Edith, his wife of fifty-six years, as well as innumerable friends and colleagues who have been touched by his life and mourn his passing.