Wilbur L. Bell was born October 28, 1958, in the State
of Indiana. He received his early education in the public
schools, and later attended Central college in Danville, Indiana where
he took a classical course.
It was in 1890 that Mr. Bell came to Kansas
City. For some years prior to locating here he had been
traveling for the American Book Company, the largest institution of
its kind in the world. He learned the business thoroughly,
settling in Kansas City, started the firm W. L. Bell & Co., school
furniture and supplies.
From a comparatively small beginning, the
company now controls the business in several surrounding States and
Territories, and has done much to increase the commercial importance
of Kansas City.
While he has devoted the majority of his time
to his business, Mr. Bell has been interested in several outside
ventures. He was president of the Flint Advertising Company for
several years, and is now financial backer of the Gertrude Berkley
Players. He is a member of the Commercial Club, and a helper in
all movements.
He married Miss Agnes Taylor, of
Connersville, Ind.
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