James 'Herk' Herkley Sanders

James Herkley left the Huzzah, Missouri area with his family while quite young, relocated in Oklahoma, met & married Mabel Pharis there, had 1 son, then relocated at Jerome, Idaho, where his wife died. He returned to Oklahoma, and married Bertha Faulkner. Their 3 children were born there before they returned to Crawford County, Missouri in 1923, where their remaining children were born. Herk was known as one of the best old time fiddlers in the country and was also known in states west. His occupation, however, was that of chef, which he followed until his health failed. He had learned to play the fiddle from his father, playing his first square dance when he was 9 years old. He & his brother, Sam. who played guitar, frequently appeared together, winning numerous awards. He so loved the fiddle that his hobby was their repair & carving of miniture fiddles,complete in every detail. Many of his friends still have these minitures. His musical talent endures in many of his sons & grandsons.