Listed as a civil engineer in the 1870 Federal Census, Boone, Franklin, MO; sister Margaret, brother George (schoolteacher), and father living in household.

Listed as a merchant in the 1880 Federal Census, Boone, Crawford, MO.

Listed as a landlord in the 1900 Federal Census, Justice Precinct 1, Comanche, TX; indicates three children born, one surviving.

Listed with no occupation but having his own income in the 1910 Federal Census, Justice Precinct 1, Comanche, TX.

Wife Fannie listed as a widow living with son William in the 1920 Federal Census, Comanche, Comanche, TX (listed as J. E -- probably to indicate Mrs. J. E. Robertson).

Sources:

1. 1900 Federal Census, Justice Precinct 1, Comanche, TX.

2. Wife Frances listed as a widow in the 1920 Federal Census, Comanche, Comanche, TX.