The family moved to Kansas City in 1857, where he was educated in the local schools.
He entered the real estate business and eventually became active in local Democratic politics.
[1] On September 7, 1876, Talbott married Carrie Madeira, a daughter of the Rev.
Dr. Madeira, formerly pastor of the Central Presbyterian Church of Kansas City.
[2] As mayor he is said to have ridden the first overhead electric interurban in the world [3] (established by J. C. Henry with the Westport Electric Railway in Kansas City)[4] In 1882, he was one of the original incorporators of the Kansas City Club.