The following article was in the Versailles (Missouri) Leader in 1896.

A Happy Affair...

"Again, we are called upon to chronicle a happy affair which took place at the home of Ben Hays, living about 10 miles southeast of this city. And while we find no duty in jotting down these joyous occasions, we find it a task to portray them in a creditable manner--owing to the magnitude of this one in particular.

Last Sunday was the 25th anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Hays' marriage, and all the relatives had made preparations to enjoy the day in their presence. It being no surprise, Mr. Hays and wife had prepared for two hundred guests who were assured of being present if the weather did not prevent. But the weather did prevent many from coming, as Sunday will be remembered as one of the severest days of the present winter. However, those who did attend, found quite a different state of affairs in the Hays' residence and a scene that would have inspired many a man to ride through storm and mud was spread before the guests--a feast. And--

There were Hays boys in the kitchen,
Hays boys on the ground;
Hays girls in the parlor,
And "Hayses" all around.

All day long, the home was alive with merriment and good-will. Many relatives being present that will probably never meet again in a family reunion made the event all the more enjoyable for their presence.

Many handsome and valuable presents in silverware were given to Mr. and Mrs. Hays and will serve to recall the joyous day long after the donors have passed away. Mr. Hays is among that class of good, substantial farmers, and one that holds the esteem of everybody. May he and his good wife live to see many years of happiness and prosperity."
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This article appeared in the Thursday, July 21, 1904 edition of the "Missouri Mall", Tipton, Missouri

"Benjamin Hayes departed this life Friday morning, July 18, at the age of 62 years and 18 days. He was born in Fairmount, Ky., June 30th, 1842. December 1st 1870, he was married to Rose Anna Newkirk and to this union was born 13 children, who with the widow survive him. He came to this county when but nine years of age. He united with the Christian church in 1896, and has been a member ever since. He spent several months of the fall in Kentucky, it being the only time he was away from his family for any length of time. Mr. Hayes had been in poor health for several years, but was thought to be improving when death came to relieve him of his sufferings. The funeral services were conducted at Bethel church by Rev. Orrison, of Sedalia, at 10 o'clock and the internment took place at Newkirk Cemetery at 2 o'clock Saturday afternoon, surrounded by scores of sorrowing friends and relatives. The writer, with the many friends of the family, express their sympathy."