When financial institutions collapse, businesses go bankrupt, and farmers
  and ranchers go broke, it's a strong will that makes a family pull themselves
  back up. "Your're a better person for the experience" - is still the thinking 
  of Charles Wise.
     Chas.' Grandfather Wise was born and raised in Kentucky (1878). Grandfather
  Good was born in 1880 in Decater, Ill. Both came to Sumner County, near Mayfield,
  Kansas. Both had families. Charles' father and mother were raised and married
  in Sumner County. Their duaghter, Elva (White) was born there, then they moved
  to Clinton, Missouri, where Charles was born in 1895. Mrs. Wise's family were
  Pennsylvania Dutch, her ancestors emigrated from Switzerland, and the Wises
  were from English background. They returned to Mayfield and later moved to 
  Barber County in 1902.
     They settled on the Myrtle Axtell farm north of Medicine Lodge in Amber
  Community. Charles attended rural schools, then graduated in 1913 from Barber
  County High School. He attended Spalding Business College, then worked at
  Kansas National Bank in Wichita ($35 a month).
     He began farming with his father near Sharon in 1916, and in 1919, they
  bought the 800-acre Shaw Ranch 7 miles west of Medicine Lodge. In 1920
  Charles married Helen Bragg, daughter of Wm. L. and Lena Gibbs Bragg, who
  lived in the Union Chapel area. The Braggs later moved to Medicine Lodge.
     James Wise died in 1921, and Charles took over the entire operation. His
  mother, Dora Wise, continued to make her home with Helen and Charles, until
  her death in 1950.
     Times were pretty good during the 20's but there was a heavy dept on the
  place; and when the Depterssion hit in the 30's, Charles was not able to hold
  the land, as was the case with many farmers at that time. His faithful wife, 
  Helen, stood with him and was a strong force in keeping the positive attitude. 
  She was confident in their ability to survive the crisis and encouraged him
  in many ways. She worked at the Gem Drug Store during the Depression to help
  out.
     They were able to lease 1200 acres near Sun City. Later, in 1948, they
  purchased 800 acres southeast of Medicine Lodge. It took 15 years to make the
  comeback, and he was determined the experience strengthened his character.
     The Wise's had three children: Jean, now Mrs. Billy Houlton; Jim, who
  married Cecelia Smith; and Stephen, who married Nancy Sidener. There are
  seven grandchildren.
     Charles and Helen sold 640 acres and moved to Medicine in 1965. He was 
  then able to pursue his hobby in woodworking and flowers. A large walnut
  tree was cut from the yard, and sawed into boards. He created many lovely 
  things in his shop in the basement.
     Charles, a BArber County Farm Bureau Charter Member - was active in soil
  conservation, director of Production Credit of Greensburg three years, has
  been a director since 1929 of the Federal Land Bank in Pratt. He is a member
  of IOOF since 1928 and served as Noble Grand. Helen was a member of Monday
  Afternoon Club, a bridge enthusiast, and former member of Mother's Club.
  Both were involved with Peace Treaty Pageant and the Stockade. They have
  been active in the Presbyterian Church. Helen died Nov. 1, 1974. Charles
  continues to live in the home.
                
     Source:Chosen Land - Barber County, Kansas,  pg. 494 
     Submitted by: Charles Wise