UilNOlS HISTORICAL SURVEY '2£ 'zr Z^t ,s^^- 3-t * -£^ h^;h- >«5*f-. [IE greatest of English historians, Macaulay, and one of the most brilliant -writers of the present ceutur>-, has said: "The history of a country is best told in a record of the lives of its pec^jle." In conformity with this idea the Poutkait and BiooR.u'incAL Record of tj^ig county has been prepared. Instead of going to musty records, and taking therefrom dry statistical matter that can be appreciated by but few, our corps of writers have gone to the people, the men and women who have, by their enterprise ai| d industry, brought the county to rank second to none among those comprising this great and noble State, and from their lips have the story of their life struggles. No more interesting or instructive matter could be presented to an intelli- gent public. In this volume will be found a record of many whose lives are worthy the imitation of coming generations. It tells how some, commencing life in poverty, by industry and economy have accumulated wealth. It tells how others, with limited advantages for securing an education, have become learned men and women, with an iuduence extending throughout the length and breadth of the land. It tells of men who have risen from the lower walks of life to eminence as statesmen, and whose names have become famous. It tells of those in every walk in life who have striven to succeed, and & records how that success has usually crowned their efforts. It tells also of many, very man3-, who, not seeking the applause of the world, have pursued "the even tenor of their way," content to have it said of them as Christ said of the woman performing a deed of mercy — "they have done what they could." It tells how that many in the pride and strenr''! of j'oung manhood left the plow and the anvil, the lawj-er's office and the counting-room, left every trade and profession, and at their countrj^'s J call went forth valiantly "to do or die," and how through their efforts the Union was restored and peace once more reigned in the land. In the life of every man and of every woman is a lesson that should not be lost upon those who follow after. Coming generations will appreciate this volume and preserve it as a sacred treasure, from the fact that it contains so much that would never find its way into puljlic records, and which would otherwise be inaccessible. Great care has been taken in the compilation of the work and every opportunity possible given to those represented to insure correctness in what has been written, and the publishers flatter them- selves that they give to their readers a work with few errors of consequence. In addition to the biograph- ical sketches, portraits of a number of representative citizens are given. The faces of some, and biographical sketches of many, will be missed in this volume. For this the publishers are not to blame. Not having a proper conception of the work, some refused to give the information necessary to compile a sketch, while others were indifferent. Occasionally some member of tlie family would oppose the enterprise, and on account of such opposition the support of the interested one would be withheld. In a few instances men could never be found, though repeated calls were mjidc at their residence or place of business. .July, 18'J2. Lakk Crrv rii-.LisiiiNG Co. M^ or THE jOYERNORS of ILLINOIS AND OF THE fa^^^ii ^ ' WmW' OFTHE ^%(S iimw 7 ■.■p■;,fr^.■^_ ^ _^^^^ ST Hmjf^^i^ HtS-'^i^itt-' ^m.f&s^k^ ^KW^ m ® ''J;^^£,V'''" y^lfj^ 6tf ^f^r^\V:-'-:^^^Mi S1BSD€% 9 FIRST PRESIDENT. : .' I '^^£S^i^(^(^f^i^iii,f,iSi>if^i^i^<^^'mi'^i^mi':iii>'m,'mif^^fim:*m\^m>'^*^ (BE 01?©] '•■gJa'^'SSi'^'g i' ,- || ; i' ;. i' ; l^; i'?.^'SJ^'i^'gi'^XiJg^ti^t:^,Hi^'i'^U;^'igi(^(giJt%)t^';^^ HE Father of our Country was m) born in Westmorland Co., Va., *-' Feb. 22, 1732. His parents were Augustine and Mary (Ball) Washington. The family to which he belonged has not been satisfactorily traced in England. His great-grand- father, John Washington, em- igrated to Virginia about 1657, and became a pros[)erous planter. He had two sons, Lawrence and John. The former married Mildred Warner and had three children, John, Augustine and Mildred. Augus- tine, the father of George, first married Jane Butler, who bore him four children, two of whom, Lawrence and Augustine, reached maturity. Of six children by his second marriage, George was the eldest, the others being Betty, Samuel, John Augustine, Charles and Mildred. Augustine Washington, the father of George, died in 1743, leaving a large landed property. To his eldest son, Lawrence, he bequeathed an estate on the Patomac, afterwards known as Mount Vernon, and to George he left the parental residence. George received only such education as the neighborhood schools afforded, save for a short time after he left scliool, ivlien he received private instruction in mathematics. His spelling v/as rather defective. Remarkable stories are told of his great physica strength and development at an early age. He was an acknowledged leader among his companions, and was early noted for that nobleness of character, fair- ness and veracity which characterized his whole life. When George was 14 years oldhe had a desire to go to sea, and a midshipman's warrant was secured for liim, but through the opposition of his mother the idea was abandoned. Two years later he was appointed surveyor to the immense estate of Lord Fairfax. In this business he spent three years in a rough frontier life, gaining experience which afterwards proved very essential to him. In 1751, though only 19 years of age, he was appointed adjutant with the rank of major in the Virginia militia, then being trained fot active service against the French and Indians. Soon after this he sailed to the West Indies with his brother Lawrence, who went there to restore his health They soon returned, and in the summer of 1752 Lawrence died, leaving a large fortune to an infant daughter who did not long survive him. On her demise the estate of Mount Vernon was given to George. Uixin the arrival of Robert Dinwiddie, as Lieuten- ant-Governor of Virginia, in 1752, the militia was reorganized, and the province divided into four mili- tary districts, of which the northern was assigned to Washington as adjutant general. Shortly after this a very perilous mission was assigned him and ac- cepted, which others had refused. This was to pro- ceed to the French post near Lake Erie in North- western Pennsylvania. The distance to I)e traversed was Ijetween 500 and 600 miles. Winter was at hand, and the journey was to be made without military escort, through a territory occupied by Indians. The GEORGE WASHINGTON. irip was a perilous one, and several limes he came near losing his life, yet he returned in safety and furnished a full and useful report of his expedition. A regiment of 300 men was raised in Virginia and put in com- mand of Col. Joshua Fry, and Major Washington was commissioned lieutenant-colonel. Active war was then begun against the French and Indians, in which Washington took a most important part. In the memorable event of July 9, 1755, known as Brad- dock's defeat, Washington was almost the only officer of distinction who escaped from the calamities of the day with life and honor. The other aids of Braddock were disabled early in the action, and Washington alone was left in that capacity on the field. In a letter to his brother he says : "I had four bullets through my coat, and two horses shot under me, yet I escaped unhurt, though death was levelino my companions on every side." An Indian sharpshooter said he was not born to be killed by a bullet, for he had taken direct aim at him seventeen times, and failed to hit him. After having been five years in the militarj- service, and vainly sought promotion in the royal army, he took advantage of the fall of Fort Duquesne and the expulsion of the French from the valley of tlie Ohio, to resign his commission. Soon after he entered the Legislature, where, although not a leader, he took an active and important part. January 17, 1759, he married Mrs. Martha (Dandridge) Custis, the wealthy widow of John Parke Custis. When the British Parliament had closed the port ^f Boston, the cry went up throughout the provinces that "The cause of Boston is the cause of us all." It was then, at the suggestion of Virginia, that a Con- gress of all the colonies was called to meet at Phila- delphia.Sept. 5, 1774, to secure their common liberties, [;eaceably if possible. To this Congress Col. Wash- ington was sent as a delegate. On May 10, 1775, the Congress re-assembled, when the hostile intentions of England were plainly apparent. The battles of Con- cord and Lexington had been fought. Among the first acts of this Congress was the election of a com- mander-in-chief of the colonial forces. This high and responsible office was conferred upon Washington, who was still a memberof the Congress. He accepted it on June 19, but upon the express condition that he receive no salary. He would keep an exact account of expenses and expect Congress 10 pay them and nothing more. It is not the object of this sketch to trace the military acts of Washington, to whom the fortunes and liberties of the people of this country were so long confided. The war was conducted by him under ever)- possible disadvantage, and while his forces often met with reverses, yet he overcame every obstacle, and after seven years of heroic devotion and matchless skill he gained liberty for the greatest nation of earth. On Dec. 23, 17S3, Washington, in a patting address of surpassing beauty, lesigned his commission as commander-in-chief of the army 10 to the Continental Congress sitting at Annapolis. He retired immediately to Mount Vernon and resumed his occupation as a farmer and planter, shunning all connection with public lite. In February, 1 7 89, Washington was unanimously elected President. In his presidential career he was subject to the peculiar trials incidental to a riew government ; trials from lack of confidence on the part of other governments; trials from want of harmony between the diflerent sections of our own country; trials from the impoverished condition of the country, owing to the war and want of credit; trials from the beginnings of party strife. He was no partisan. His clear judg.nent could discern the golden mean; and while perhaps this alone kept our government from sinking at the very outset, it left him exposed to attacks from both sides, which were often bitter and very annoying. At the expiration of his first term he was unani- mously re-elected. At the end of this term many were anxious that he be re-elected, but he absolutely refused a third nominaiion. On the fourth of March, 1797, at the expiraton of his second term as Presi- dent, he returned to his home, hoping to pass there his few remaining years free from the annoyances of public life. Later in the year, however, his repose seemed likely to be interrupted by war with France- At the prospect of such a war he was again urged to take command of the armies. He chose his sub- ordinate officers and left to them the charge of mat- ters in the field, which he superintei.ded from his home. In accepting the command he made the reservation that he was not to be in the field until it was necessary. In the midst of these preiiarations his life was suddenly cut off. December 12, he took a severe cold from a ride in the rain, which, settling in h's throat, produced inflammation, and terminated fatally on the night of the fourteenth. On the eigh- teenth his body was borne wi'h military honors to its final resting place, and interred in the family vault at Mount Vernon. Of the character of Washington it is impossible to speak but in terms of the highest respect and ad-« miration. The more we see of the operations of our government, and the more deeply we feel the difficulty of uniting all opinions in a common interest, the more highly we must estimate the force of his tal- ent and character, which have be-^n able to challenge the reverence of all parties, and principles, and na- tions, and to win a fame as extended as the limits of the globe, and which we cannot but believe will be as lasting as the existence of man. The person of Washington was unusally tali, erect and well proportioned. His muscular strength was great. His features were of a beautiful symmetry He commanded respect without any a]. pea ranee qt haughtiness, and ever seiipus withouf l-^ine; dull. I '■""Vsv-jr, .^.w- ^^// .4^^?%, i/ SECOND PSESIDENT. |l OHN ADAMS, the second ■\ President and the first Vice- ' President of the United States, was born \\\ Braintree ( now Quincy),Mass., and about ten miles from Boston, Oct. ig, 1735. His great-grandfather, Henry Adams, emigrated from England about 1640, with a family of eight ''\ sons, and settled at Braiatree. The parents of John were John and Susannah (Boylston) Adams. His father was a farmer of limited means, to which he added the bus- iness of shoemaking. He gave his eldest son, John, a classical educa- tion at Harvard College. John graduated in 1755, and at once took charge of the school in Worcester, Mass. This lie found but a 'school of afflic-tion," from which hi endeavored to gain relief by devoting himself, in addition, to the study of law. For this purpose he placed himself under the tuition of the only lawyer in the town. He had thought seriously of the clerical profession but seems to have been turned from this liy what he termed " the frightful engines of ecclesiastical coun- jils, of diabolical malice, and Calvanistic good nature," of the operations of which he had been a witness in his native town. He was well fitted for the legal jiTofession, possessing a clear, sonorous voice, being ready and fluenc of speech, and having quick percep- tive powers. He gradually gained practice, and in 1764 married Abigail Smith, a daughter of a minister, and a lady of superior intelligence. Shortly after his marriage, (i7f'5), the attempt of Parliamentary taxa- 'ion turi'i'-jd him from law to politics. He took initial steps toward holdin^ i town meeting, and the resolu- tions he offered on the subject became very populai throughout the Province, and were adopted word for word by over forty different towns. He moved to Bos ton in 1768, and became one of the most courageous and prominent advocatesof the popular cause, and was chosen a member of the General Court (the Leg- lislature) in 1770. Mr. Adams was chosen one of the first delegates from Massachusetts to the first Continental Congress, which met in 1774. Here he distinguished himsell by his capacity for business and for debate, and ad- vocated the movement for independence against tb^ majority of the members. In May, 1776, he mcved and carried a resolution in Congress that the Colonies should assume the duties of self-government. He was a prominent member of the committee of .ive appointed June 11, to prepare a declaration of inde- pendence. This article was drawn by Jefferson, but on Adams devolved the task of battling it through Congress in a three days debate. On the day after the Declaration of Independence was passed, while his soul was yet warm with tha glow of excited feeling, he wrote a letter to his wife which, as we read it now, seems to have been dictated by the spirit of prophecy. "Yesterday," he says, "the greatest question was decided that ever was debated in America; and greater, perhaps, never was or wil be decided among men. A resolution was passed without one dissendng colony, ' that these United States are, and of right ought to be, free and inde- pendent states.' The day is passed. Tlie fourth of July, 1776, will be a memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe it will be celebrated by succeeding generations, as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance by solemn acts of devotion to Almighty God, It ought to be solemnized v.'ith pomp, shows. 24 JOHN ADAMS. games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations from one end of the continent to the other, from this time forward for ever. Vou will think me transported with enthusiasm, but I am not. I am well aware of the toil, and blood and treasure, that it will cost to maintain this declaration, and support and defend these States; yet, through all the gloom, I can see the rays of hght and glory. I can see that the end is Wurlh more than all the means; and that posterity will triumph, although you and I may rue, which I ho[ie we shall not." In November, 1777, Mr. Adams was appointed a ddegate to France and to co-operate with Bemjamin Franklin and Arthur Lee, who were then in Paris, in the endeavor to obtain assistance in arms qnd money from the French Government. This was a severe trial to his patriotism, as it separated him from his home, comiielled him to cross the ocean in winter, and ex- posed him to greatperilof capture by the British cruis- ers, who were seeking him. He left France June 17, 1779. In September of the same year he was again chosen to go to Paris, and there hold himself in readi- ness to negotiate a treaty of peace and of commerce with Great Britian, as soon as the British Cabinet might Ije found willing to listen to such pvoposels. He sailed for France in November, from there he went to H lUand, where he negotiated important loans and formed important commercial treaties Finally a treaty of peace with England was signed Jan. 21, 1783. The re-action from the excitement, toil and anxiety through which Mr. Adams had passed threw him into a fever. After suffering from a con- tinued fever and becoming feeble and emaciated he was advised to go to England to drink the waters of Bith. ^Vhile in England, still drooping anddespond- ing, he received dispatches from his own government urging the necessity of his going to Amsterdam to negotiate another loan. It was winter, his health was delicate, yet he immediately set out, and through storm, on sea, on horseback and foot, he made the trip. February 24, 1785^ Congress appointed Mr. Adams envoy to the Court of St. James. Here he met face to face the King of England, who had so long re- garded him as a traitor. As England did not condescend to appoint a minister to the United States, and as Mr. Adams felt that he was accom- plishing but little, he sought permission to return to nis own country, where he arrived in June, 1788. When Washington was first chosen President, John Adams, rendered illustiious by his signal services at home and abroad, was chosen Vice President. .Again at the second election of Washington as President, Adams was chosen Vice President. In 1796, Wash- ington retired from public life, and Mr. Adams was elected President,though not without much opposition. Serving in this office four years,he was succeeded by Mr. Jefferson, his opponent in politics. While Mr. Adams was Vice President the great French Revolution shook the continent of Euroije, and it was upon this point which he was atissujwuh the majority of his countrymen led by Mr. Jefferson. Mr. Adams felt no sympathy with the French people in their struggle, for he had no confidence in their power of self-government, and he utterly abhored the classof atheist philosophers who he claimed caused it. On the other hand Jefferson's sympathies were strongly enlisted in behalf of the French people. Hence or- iginated the alienation between these distinguished men, and two powerful parties were thus soon organ- ized, Adams at the head of the one whose sympathies were with England and Jefferson led the other in sympathy with France. The world has seldom seen a spectacle of more moral beauty and grandeur, than was presented by the old age of Mr. Adams. The violence of party feeling had died away, and he had begun to receive that just appreciation which, to most men, is not accorded till after death. No one could look upon his venerable form, and think of what he had done and suffered, and how he had given up all the prime and strength of his life to the public good, without the deepest emotion of gratitude and respect. It was his peculiar good fortune to witness the comjilete success of the institution which he had l)een so active in creating and supporting. In 1824, his cup of happiness was filled to the brim, by seeing his son elevated to the highest station in the gift of the people. The fourth of July, 1826, which completed the half century since the signing of the Declaration of Inde- pendence, arrived, and there were but three of the signers of that immortal instrument left upon the earth to hail its morning light. And, as it is well known, on that day two of these finished their earthly pilgrimage, a coincidence so remarkable as to seem miraculous. For a few days before Mr. Adams had been rapidly failing, and on the morning of the fourth he found himself too weak to rise from his bed. On being requested to name a toast for the customary celebration of the day, he exclaimed " In- dependence FOREVER." When the day was ushered in, by the ringing of bells and the firing of cannons, he was asked by one of his attendants if he knew what day it was? He replied, "O yes; it is the glor- ious fourth of July — God bless it — God bless you all.'' In the course of the day he said, "It is a great and glorious day." The last words he uttered were, "Jefferson survives." But he had, at one o'clock, re- signed his spirit into the hands of his God. The personal appearance and manners of Mr. Adams were not particularly prepossessing. His face, as his portrait manifests,was intellectual ard expres sive, but his figure was low and ungraceful, and h''- manners were frequently abrupt and unrourteous He had neither the lofty dignity of Washington, nri the engaging elegance and gracefulness which marked the manners and address of Jefferson. THIRD PRESIDENT. 27 HOMAS JEFFERSON was liorn April 2, 1743, at Shad- l^well, Albermarle county, Va. His parents were Peter and Jane ( Randolph) Jefferson, the former a native of Wales, and the latter born in Lon- don. To them were born six daughters and two sons, of whom Thomas was the elder. When 14 years of age his father died. He received a most liberal education, hav- ing been kept diligently at school from the time he was five years of age. In 1760 he entered William end Mary College. Williamsburg was then the seat of the Colonial Court, and it was the obodeof fashion a.id splendor. Young Jefferson, who was then 17 years old, lived somewhat expensively, keeping fine horses, and much caressed by gay society, yet lie was earnestly devoted to his studies, and irreproacha- able in his morals. It is strange, however, under such influences, that he was not ruined. In the sec- ond year of his college course, moved by some un- explained inward impulse, he discarded his horses, society, and even his favorite violin, to which he had previously given much time. He often devoted fifteen hours a day to hard study, allowing himself for e.x- ercise only a run in the evening twilight of a mile out of the city and back again. He thus attained very higli intellectual culture, alike excellence in philoso- phy and the languages. The most difficult Latin and Greek authors he read with facility. A more finished scholar has seldom gone fortli from college halls; anvi there was not to be found, perhaps, in all Virginia, a more pureminded, upright, gentlemanly young man. Immediately upon leaving college he began the study of law. For the short time he continued in the practice of his profession he rose rapidly and distin- guished himself by his energy and accuteness as a lawyer. But the times called for greater action. The policy of England had awakened the spirit of resistance of the American Colonies, and tlie enlarged views which Jefferson had ever entertained, soon led him into active political life. In 1769 he was choser. a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses, In 1772 he married Mrs. Martha Skelton, a very beauti- ful, wealthy and highly accomplished young widow Upon Mr. Jefferson's large estate at Shadwell, there was a majestic swell of land, called Monticello, which commanded a prospect of wonderful extent and beauty. This spot Mr. Jefferson selected for his new home; and here he reared a mansion of modest ye^ elegant architecture, which, next to Mount Vernon became the most distinguished resort in our land. In 1775 he was sent to the Colonial Congress, where, though a silent member, his abilities as a writer and a reasoner soon become known, and he was placed upon a number of important committees, and was chairman of the one appointed for the draw- ing up of a declaration of independence. This com- mittee consisted of Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman and Robert R. Livingston. Jefferson, as chairman, was appointed to draw up the paper. Franklin and Adams suggested a few verbal changes before it was submitted to Con- gress. On June 28, a few slight changes were made in It by Congress, and it was jxissed and signed July 4, 1776. What must have been the feelings of that 28 THOMAS JEFFERSON. man — what the emotions that swelled his breast — who was charged with the preparatioii of that Dec- laration, which, while it made known the wrongs of America, -.vas also to publish her to the world, free, soverign and independent. It is one of the most re- markable papers ever written ; and did no other effort of the mind of its author exist, that alone would be sufficient to stamp his name with immortality. Ill 1779 Mr. Jefferson was elected successor to Patrick Henry, as Governor of Virginia. At one time the British officer, Taileton, sent.a secret expedition to Moniicelio, to capture the Governor. Scarcely five minutes elapsed after the hurried escape of Mr. Jef- ferson and his family, ere his mansion was in posses- sion of the British troops. His wife's health, never very good, was much injured by this excitement, and in the summer of 1782 she died. Mr. Jefferson was elected to Congress in 1783. Two ye us later he was appointed Minister Plenipo- tentiary to France. Returning to the United States in September, 1789, he became Secretary of State m Washington's cabinet. This position he resigned Jan. r, 1794. In 1797, he was chosen Vice Presi- dent, and four years later was elected President over Mr. Adams, with Aaron Burr as Vice President. In 1804 he was re-elected with wonderful unanimity, and George Glinton, Vice President. The early part of Mr. Jefferson's second adminstra- ■ tion was disturbed by an event which threatened the tranquility and peace of the Union; this was the con- spiracy of Aaron Burr. Defeated in the late election to the Vice Presidency, and led on by an uni^rincipled ambition, this extraordinary man formed the plan of a military expedition intc the Spanish territories on our >oathwestern frontier, for the purpose of lorming there a new republic. This has been generally supposed was a mere pretext ; and although it has not been generally known what his real plans were, there is no doubt that they were of a f:ir more dangerous character. In 1809, at the expiration of the second term for which Mr. Jefferson had been elected, he determined to retire from political life. For a period of nearly :3rty years, he had been continually before the pub- ■ic, and all tliattime had l)een employed in offices of the greatest trust and responsibility. Having thus de- voted the best part of his life to the service of his country, he now felt desirous of that rest which his declining years recjuired, and upon the organization of the new administration, in March, i8og, he bid fare- well forever to public life, and retired to Monticello. Mr. Jefferson was profuse in his hospitality. Whole families came in their coaches with their horses, — fathers and mothers, boys and girls, babies and nurses, — and remained three and even six months. Life at Monticello, for years, resembled that at a fashionable watering-place. The fourth of July 1826, being the fiftieth anniver- sary of the Declaration of American Independence, great preparations were made in every part of the Union lor its celebration, as the nation's jubilee, and the citizens of Washington, to add to the solemnity ot the occasion, invited Mr. Jefferson, as the framer. and one of the few surviving signers of the Declara- tion, to participate in their lestivities. But an ill- ness, which had been of several weeks duration, and had been continually increasing, compelled him to decline the invitation. On the second of July, the disease under which he was laboring left him, but in such a reduced state that his medical attendants, entertained nc hope of his recovery. From this time he was perfectly sensible that his last hour was at hand. On the ne.x* day, which was Monday, he asked of those around him, the day of the month, and on being told it was the third of July, he expressed the earnest wish tha; he might be permitted to breathe the air of the fiftieth anniversary. His prayer was heard — that day, whose dawn was hailed with such rapture through our land, burst upon his eyes, and then they were closed for- ever. And what a noble consummation of a noble life! To die on that day, — the birthday of a nation,- - the day which his own name and his own act had rendered glorious; to die amidst the rejoicings and festivities of a whole nation, who looked up to him, as the author, under God. of their greatest blessings, was all that was wanting to fill up the record his life. Almost at the same hour of his death, the kin- dred spirit of the venerable Adams, as if to bear him company, left the scene of his earthly honors. Hand in hand they had stood forth, the champions of freedom ; hand in hand, during the dark and desper- ate struggle of the Revolution, they had cheered and animated their desponding countrymen; for half a century they had lalwred together for tne good of the country; and row hand in hand they depart. In their lives they had been united in the same great cause of liberty, and in their deaths they were not divided. In person Mr. Jefferson was tall and thin, rather above six feet in height, but well formed; his eyes were light, his hair orit;inally red, in after life became white and silvery; his complexion was fair, his fore- head broad, and his whole cou]^»^enance intelligent and thoughtful. He possessed great fortitude of mind as Avell as personal courage ; and :.':s command of tem- per was such that his oldest and most intimate friends never recollected to have seen him in a passion. His manners, though dignified, were simple and un- affected, and his hospitality was so unbounded that all found at his house a ready welcome. In conver- sation he was fluent, eloquent and enthusiastic; and his language was remarkably pure and correct. He was a finished classical scholar, and in his writings is discernable the care with which he formed his style upon the best models of antiquity. -J y^g-^-t-'Lt, .c-C^ A<.x^-^r ^-^ FIFTH PRESIDENi: 35 _j^j,^kiLtdjQ^^ ha^^i^ pi]QESn]OI|ROE.u-, .;<■»*»■- »ii ©t WM ^^PPXCW^^^"^ AMES MONROE, the fifth I'residentof The United States, was born in Westmoreland Co., Va., April 28, 1758. His early life was passed at the place of nativity. His ancestors had for many years resided in the prov- ince in which he was born. When, at 17 years of age, in the process of completing his education at William and Mary College, the Co- lonial Congress assembled at Phila- delphia to deliberate upon the un- just and manifold oppressions of Great Britian, declared the separa- tion of the Colonies, and promul- gated the Declaration of Indepen- dence. Had he been born ten years before it is highly probable that he would have been one of the signers of that celebrated instrument. At this time he left school and enlisted among the patriots. He joined the army when everything looked hope- less and gloomy. The number of deserters increased from day to day. The invading armies came pouring in ; and the tories not only favored the cause of the mother country, but disheartened the new recruits, who were sufficiently terrified at the prospect of con- tending with an enemy whom they had been taught to deem invincible. To such brave spirits as James Monroe, who went right onward, undismayed through difficulty and danger, tlie United States owe their political emancipation. Tiie young cadet joined the ranks, and espoused the cause of his injured country, with a firm determination to live or die with her strife for liberty. Firmly yet sadly he shared in the mel- ancholy retreat from Harleam Heights and White Plains, and accompanied the dispirited army as it fled before its foes through New Jersey. In four months after the Declaration of Independence, the patriots had been beaten in seven battles. At the battle of Trenton he led the vanguard, and, in the act of charg- ing upon the enemy he received a wound in the left shoulder. As a reward for his bravery, Mr. Monroe was pro- moted a captain of infantry ; and, having recovered from his wound, he rejoined the army. He, however, receded from the line of promotion, by becoming an officer in the staff of Lord Sterling. During the cam- paigns of 1777 and 1778, in the actions of Brandy wine, Germantown and Monmouth, he continued aid-de-camp; but becoming desirous to regain his position in the army, he exerted himself to collect a regiment for the Virginia line. This scheme failed owing to the exhausted condition of the State. Upon this failure he entered the office of Mr. Jefferson, at that period Governor, and pursued, with considerable ardor, the study of common law. He did not, however, entirely lay aside the knapsack for the green bag; but on the invasions of the enemy, served as a volun teer, during the two years of his legal pursuits. ■ In 1782, he was elected from King George county, a member of the Leglislature of Virginia, and by that body he was elevated to a seat in tlie Executive Council. He was thus honored with tlie confidence of his fellow citizens at 23 years of age ; and having at this early period displayed some of that ability and aptitude for legislation, wliich were afterwards employed with unremittii^g energy for the public good, 36 JAMES MONROE. lie was in the succeeding year chosen a member of the Congress of the United States. Deeplyas Mr. Moinoeft;h the imperfections of the old Confederacy, he was opposed to the new Constitution, Thinking, with many others of *:he Republican party, that it gave too much power to the Central Government, and not enough to the individual States. Still he re- tained the esteem of his friends who were its warm supporters, aiid who, notwithstanding his opposition secured its ado[)tion. In 1789, he became a member of the United States Senate; which office he held for four years. Every month the line of distinction be- tween the two great parties which divided the nation, the Federal and the Republican, was growing more distinct. The two prominent ideas which now sep- arated them were, that the Republican party was in sympathy with France, and also in favor of such a strict construction of the Constitution as to give the Central Government as little power, and the State Governments as much power, as the Constitution would warrant. The Federalists sympathized with England, and were in favor of a liberal construction of the Con- stitution, which would give as much power to the Central Government as that document could possibly authorize. The leading Federalists and Republicans were alike noble men, consecrating all their energies to the good of the nation. Two more honest men or more pure patriots than John Adams the Federalist, and James Monroe the Republican, never breathed. In building up this majestic nation, which is destined to eclipse all Grecian and Assyrian greatness, the com- bination of their antagonism was needed to create the light equilibrium. And yet each in his day was de- nounced as almost a demon. Washington was then President. England had es- poused the cause of the Bourbons against the princi- ples of the French Revolution. All Europe w^s drawn into the conflict. We were feeble and far away. Washington issued a proclamation of neutrality be- tween these contending powers. France had helped us in the struggle for our liberties. All the despotisms of Europe were now combined to prevent the French from escaping from a tyranny a thousand-fold worse than that which we had endured Col. Monroe, more magnanimous than [jrudent, was anxious that, at whatever hazard, we should help our old allies in their extremity. It was the impulse of a generous and noble nature. He violently opposed the Pres- ident's proclamation as ungrateful and wanting in magnanimity. Washington, who could appreciate such a character, developed his calm, serene, almost divine greatness, by appointing that very James Monroe, who was de- nouncing the policy of the Government, as the minister of that Government to the Republic of France. Mr. Monroe was welcomed by the National Convention in France witn the most enthusiastic demonstr/^tions. Shortly after his return to this countrv, Mr. Mon- roe was elected Governor of Virginia, and held the office for three yeais. He was again sent to France tu co-operate with Chancellor Livingston in obtaining the vast territory then known as the Province of Louisiana, which France had but shortly before ob- tained from Spain. Their united efforts were suc- cessful. For the comparatively small sum of fifteen millions of dollars, the entire territory of Orleans and district of Louisiana were added to the United States. This was probably the largest transfcr of real estate which was ever made in all the history of the world. From France Mr. Monroe went to England to ob- tain from that country some recognition of our rights as neutrals, and to remonstrate against those odious impressments of our seamen. but Eng- land was unrelenting. He again returned to Eng- land on the same mission, but coidd receive no redress. He returned to his home and was again chosen Governor of Virginia. This he soon resigned to accept the position of Secretary of State undc" Madison. While in this office war with England was declared, the Secretary ot War resigned, and during these trying times, the duties of the War Departnien were also put upon him. He was truly the armor- bearer of President Madison, and the most efficient business man in his cabinet. Upon the return ol peace he resigned the Dei)artment of War, but con- tinued in the office of Secretary of State until the ex- ])iration of Mr. Madison's adminstration. At the elec- tion held the previous autumn Mr. Monroe himself had been chosen President with but little opiX)sition, and upon March 4, rSiy, was inaugurated. Four year? later he was elected for a second term. Among the important measures of his Presidencv were the cession of Florida to the LTnited States; the Missouri Comiiromise, and the " Monroe doctrine.' This famous doctrine, since known as the " Monroe doctrine," was enunciated by him in 1823. At tha^ time the United States had recognized the independ- ence of tlie South American states, and did not wish to have European powers longer attempting to sub due portions of the American Continent. The doctrine is as follows: "That we should consider any attempt on the part of European powers to extend their sys- tem to any portion of this hemisphere as dangerous to our peace and safety," and "that we could no' view any interposition for the ])urpose of oppressing or controlling American governments or provinces in any other light than as a manifestation by Europe.ni- powers of an unfriendly disposition toward the Unircr States." This doctrine immediately affected the course of foreign governments, and has become the approved sentiment of the United States. At the end of his f econd term Mr Monroe retired to his home in Virginia, where he lived unii! 1S30 when he went to New York to live with his son-in law. In that city he died, on the 4th of July, 1831 ^ J ■ «,^ , c/it i Ctyyy^ SIXTH PRESIDRNT. 39 A;Mrj/^^ 7^ '«»^;;.*#wLs^$;:S^-s-s#$;k^«s;s>^i::s-»&i;i^*i;:;$«&$;;s**Aicti. lOm QniI]6Y ^D^^EQS. 'l'^:&»J^:S--«^iS- ss-*s:s->s^is^s^is*^;gHpg!g.^^tg,». OHN QUINCY ADAMS, the sixth President of the United ^States, was born in the rural home of his honored father, John Adams, in Quincy, Mass., on the I ith cf July, 1767. His mother, a woman of exaUed worth, watched over his childhood during the almost constant ab- sence of his father. When but eight years of age, he stood with "' his mother on an eminence, listen- ing to the booming of the great bat- tle on Bunker's Hill, and gazing on upon the smoke and flames billow- ing up from the conflagration of Charlestown. When but eleven years old he took a tearful adieu of his mother, to sail with iiis falner for Europe, through a fleet ot liostile British cruisers. The bright, animated boy spent a year and a half in Paris, where liis father was associated with Franklin and Lee as minister plenipotentiary. His intelligence attracted the notice of these distinguished men, and he received from them flattering m;irks of attention. Mr. John Adams had scarcely returned to this cou/.try, in 1779, ere he was again sent abroad. Again (ol-.n Quincy accompanied his father. At Paris he applied himself with great diligence, for six months, to -.nidy; then accompained his fatlier to Holland, where he entered, first a school in .\msterdam, then the University at Leyden. About a year from this time, in t78i, when the manly 1 oy was but fourteen yea—, of age, he was selected by Mr. Dana, our min- ister to the Russian court, as his private secretar)'. Tn this school of incessant labor and of enobling culture he spent fourteen months, and then returned !o Holland thiough Sweden, Denmark, Hamburg and Bremen. This l(>ng journey he took alone, in the winter, when in his sixteenth year. Aijain he resumed nis studies, under a pn-'^te tutor, at Hague. Thence, in the spring of 1782, he accompanied his father ts Paris, traveling leisurely, and forming acquaintance with the most distinguished men on the Continent- examining architectural remains, galleries of paintings and all renowned works of art. At Paris he again became associated with the most illustrious men ol all lands in the contemplations of thcloftiest temporal themes which can engross the human mind. Afte" a short visit to England he returned to Paris, ana consecrated all his energies to study until May, 1785, when he returned to America. To a brilliant young man of eighteen, who had seen much of the world, and who was familiar with the etiquette of courts, a residence with his father in London, under such cir- CLunstances, must have been extremely attractive but with judgment very rare in one of his age, he pre- ferred to return to America to complete his education in an American college. He wished then to study law, that with an honorable profession, he might be able to obtain an independent support. Upon leaving Harvard College, at the age of twenty- he studied law for three years. In June, 1794, be- ing then but tv/enty-seven years of age, he was ap- pointed by Washington, resident minister at the Netherlands. Sailing from Boston in July, he reachea London in October, where he was immediately admit- ted^ to the deliberations of Messrs. Jay and Pinckney, assisting them in negotiating a commercial treaty wit): Great Brilian. After thus spending a fortnight i. London, he proceeded to the Hague. In July, 1797, he left the Hague to go to Portugal as minister plenipotentiary. On his way to Portugal, upon arriving in London, he met with despatches, directing him to the court of Beiiin, but requesting! him to remain in London until he should receive his instructions. While wr.iting he was married to ar. American lady to whom he had been previously en- gaged, — Miss Louisa Catherine Johnson, daughte' of Mr. Joshua Johnson, American consul in I ondon a lady endownd with that beauty and those accom- plishment which eminently fitted her to move in X.\a elevated sphere for which she w»s <^.«s''ioed. *o JOHN QUINCY ADAMS. He reached Berlin with his wife in November, 1797 ; where he remained until July, 1799, when, having ful- filled all the purposes of his mission, he sohcited his recall. Soon after his return, in 1S02, he was chosen to Ihe Senate of Massachusetts, from Boston, and then was elected Senator of the United States for six years, from the 4th of March, 1804. His reputation, his ability and his experience, placed him immediately among the most prominent and influential members of that body. Especially did he sustain the Govern- ment in its measures of resistance to the encroach- ments of England, destroying our commerce and in- sulting our flag. There was no man in America more familiar with the arrogance of the British court upon these points, and no one more resolved to present a firm resistance. In 1809, Madison succeeded Jefferson in the Pres- idential chair, and he immediately nominated John Quincy Adams minister to St. Petersburg. Resign- ing his professorship in Harvard College, he embarked at Boston, in August, 1809. Wiiile in Russia, Mr. Adams was an intense stu- dent. He devoted his attention to the language and history of Russia; to the Chinese trade; to the European system of weights, measures, and coins ; to the climate and astronomical observations; while he Kept up a familiar acquaintance with the Greek and Latin classics. In all the universities of Europe, a more accouiplished scholar could scarcely be found. All through life the Bible constituted an importart part of his studies. It was his rule to read five chapters every day. On the 4th of March, 1S17, Mr. Monroe took the Presidential chair, and immediately appointed Mr. .'Vdams Secretary of State. Taking leave of his num- erous friends in public and private life in Europe, he sailed in June, i8ig, for the United States. On the 1 8th of August, he again crossed the threshold of his home in Quincy. During the eight yearsof Mr. Mon- roe's administration, Mr Adams continued Secretary of State. Some time before '.he close of Mr. Monroe's second term of office, new candidates began to lie presented for the Presidency. The friends of Mr. Adams l.)rought forward his name. It was an exciting campaign. Party spirit was never more bitter. Two hundred and sixty electoral votes were cast. Andrew Jackson re- ceived ninety nine; John Quincy .\dams, eighty-four; William H. Crawford, forty-one; Henry Clay, thirty- seven. As there was no choice by the people, the question went to the House of Re[)resentatives. Mr. Clay gave the vote of Kentucky to Mr. Adams, and he was elected. The friends of all the disappointed candidates now :ombined in a venomous and persistent assault upon Mr. Adams. Tliere is nothing more disgraceful in •V»e nast history of our country than the abuse which was poured in one uninterrupted stream, upon this high-minded, upright, patriotic man. 'i'here never was an administration more pure in principles, more con- scientiously devoted to the best interests of the coun- try, than that of John Quincy Adams; and never, per- haps, was there an administration more unscrupu- lously and outrageously assailed. Mr Adams was, to a very remarkable degree, ab- stemious and temperate ui his habits; always rising early, and taking much exercise. VMien at his homein Quincy, he has been known to walk, before breakfast, seven miles to Boston. In Washington, it was said that he was the first man up in the city, lighting his own fire and applying himself to work in his library often long before dawn. On the 4th of March, 1820, Mr. Adams retired from the Presidency, and was succeeded by Andrew- Jackson. John C. Calhoun was elected Vice Presi- dent. The slavery question now began to assume portentous magnitude. Mr. Adams returned to Quiiicy and to his studies, which he pursued witii un- abated zeal. But he was not long permitted to re- main in retirement. In November, 1830, he was elected re|)resentative to Congress. For seventeen years, until his death, he occupied the post as repre- sentative, towering above all his [leers, ever ready to do brave battle' for freedom, and winning the title of "the old man eloquent." Upon taking his seat in the House, he announced that he should hold him- self bound to no party. Probably there never was a member more devoted to his duties. He was usually the first in his place in the morning, and the last to leave his seat in the evening. Not a measure could be brouglit forward and escape his scru'lin)-. 'I he battle wliich Mr. Adams fought, almost singly, against the proslavery party in the Government, was sul)lime in Its moral dating and heroism. For persisting in presenting petitions for the abolition of slavery, he was threatened with indictment by the grand jury with expulsion from tlic Houfe, with assassination but no threats could intimidate him, and his final triumph was complete. It has been said of President Adams, that when his body was bent and his hair silvered liy the lapse of fourscore years, yielding to the simple faith of a little child, he was accustomed to repeat every night, l)eforc he slept, the prajer which his mother taught him in his infant years. On the 2 1 St of February, 1848, he rose on llie lloor of Congress, with a paper in his hand, to address flie speaker. Suddenly he fell, again stricken by ]iar;ily sis, and was caught in the arms of those around liiin. For a time he was senseless, as he was convened to the sofa in the rotunda. With reviving conscious- ness, he opened his eyes, looked calmly around and said " This is the end of earth .-"then after a moment's pause he add'.'d, ''\T am eonteiif" These were the last words of the grand " Old Man Eloquent." SEVENTH FRESIl^ENT. 43 ,E 5'(T? -^cMisim^r i^)S-.©^fc@^'^ 4,¥©««^R |4.fl^|f jf. -■aiaiJ®^^^'''^^'^ ' .^-^J/SrjfJnn- £^ NDREW JACKSON, the seventh Presider.t of the United States, was born in Waxhaw settlement, N. C, March 15, 1767, a few days after his father's death. His parents were poor einigrants from Ireland, and took up their abode in Waxhaw set- tlement, where they lived in deepest poverty. Andrew, or Andy, as he was universally called, grew up a very rough, rude, turbulent boy. His features were coarse, his form un- gainly; and there was but very little in his character, made- visible, which was at- tractive. When only thirteen years old he joined the volun- teers of Carolina against the British invasion. In lySr, he and his brother Robert were captured and imprisoned for a time at Camden. A British officer ordered him to brush his mud-spattered boots. " I am a prisoner of war, not your servant," was the reply of the dauntless boy. -The brute drew his sword, and aimed a desperate Dlow at the head of the helpless young prisoner. Andrew raised his hand, and thus received two fear- ful gashes, — one on the hand and the other upon the head. The officer then turned to his brother Robert with the same demand. He also refused, and re- ceived a blow from the keen-edged sabre, which quite disabled him, and which probably soon after caused his death. They suffered much other ill-treatment, and were finally stricken with the small-pox. Their mother was successfi'-l 'i> >i".itainin5 their exchange, and took her sick boys home. After a long illnjss. Andrew recovered, and the death of his mother s;oon loft him e.itirely friendless. Andrew supported himself in various ways, s i:h as working at the saddler's trade, teaching school and clerking in a ge:ieral store, until 1784, when he entered a law office at Salisbury, N. C. He, however, gave more attention to the wild amusements of the times than to his studies. In 1788, he was appointed solicitcr for the western district of North Carolina, ol whicli Tennessee was then a part. This involved many long and tedioas journeys amid dangers of every kind, but Andrew Jackson never knew fear, and the Indians had no desire to repeat a skirmish witn the Sharp Knife. In 1791, Mr. Jackson was married to a woman who supposed herself divorced from her former husband. Great was the surprise of both parties, two years later, to find that the conditions of the divorce had just been definitely settled by the first husband. The marriage ceremony was performed a second time, but the occur- rence was often used by his enemies to bring Mr. Jackson into disfavor. During these years he worked hard at his profes sion, and frequently had one or more duels on hand, one of which, when he killed Dickenson, was espec- ially disgraceful. In January, 1796, the Territory of Tennessee then containing nearly eighty tliousand inhabitants, the people met in convention at Knoxville to frame a con- stitution. Five were sent from each of the eleven counties. Andrew Jackson was one of the delega'es. The new State was entitled to but one meml cr iv the National House of Representatives. Andrew Jade- son was chosen that member. Mounting his horse he rode to Philedelphia, where Congress then held its 44 ANDREW JACKSON. sessions, — a distance of about eight hundred miles. Jackson was an earnest advocate of the Demo- cratic party. Jefferson was his idol. He admired Bonaparte, loved France and hated England. As Mr. Jackson took his seat, Gen. Washington, whose second term of office was then expiring, delivered his last speech to Congress. A committee drew up a complimentary address in reply. Andrew Jackson did not approve of the address, and was one of the twelve who voted against it. He was not willing to say that Gen. Washington's adminstration had been " wise, firm and patriotic." Mr. Jackson was elected to the United States Senate in 1797, but soon resigned and returned home. Soon after he was chosen Judge of the Supreme Court of his State, which jjosition he held for si.\ years. When the war of 18 12 with Great Britian com- menced, Madison occupied the Presidential chair. Aaron Burr sent word to the President that there was an unknown man in the West, Andrew Jackson, who would do credit to a commission if one were con- ferred uix)n him. Just at that time Gen. Jackson offered his services and those of twenty-five hundred volunteers. His offer was accepted, and the troops were assembled at Nashville. As the British were hourly expected to make an at- tack upon New Orleans, where Gen. Wilkinson was in command, he was ordered to descend the river with fifteen hundred troops to aid Wilkinson. The expedition reached Natchez; and afteradelay of sev- eral weeks there, without accomi)llshing anything, the men were ordered back to their homes. But the energy Gen. Jackson had displayed, and his entire devotion to the comrfort of his soldiers, won him golden opiniotrs; and he became the most popular man in the State. It was in this expedition that his toughness gave him the nickname of "Old Hickory." Soon after this, while attempting to horsewhip Col. Thomas H. Benton, for a remark that gentleman made about his taking a part as second in a ditel, in which a younger brother of Benton's was engaged, he received two severe pistol wounds. While he was lingering upon a bed of suffering news came that the Indians, who had combined under Tecumseh from Florida to the Lakes, to extenrtinate the white set- tlers, were committing the most awful ravages. De- cisive action became necessary. Gen. Jackson, with his fractured bone just beginning to heal, his arm in a sling, and unable to mount his horse without assis- tance, gave his amazing energies to the raising of an army to rendezvous at Fayettesville, Alabama. The Creek Indians had established a strong fort on one of the bendsof the Tallapoosa River, near the cen- ter of Alabama, about fifty miles below Fort Strother. With an army of two thousand men. Gen. Jackson traversed the pathless wilderness in a march of eleven days. He reached their fort, called Tohopeka or Horse-shoe, on the 27th of March. 1814. The bend of the river enclosed nearly one hundred acres o." tangled forest and wild ravine. Across the narrow neck the Indrans had constructed a formidable brea^jl- work of logs and brush. Here nine hundred warriors, with an ample suply of arms were assembled. The fort was stormed. The fight was utterly des- perate. Not an Indian would accept of quarter. When bleeding and dying, they would fight those who en- deavored to spare their lives. From ten in the morn- ing until dark, the battle raged. The carnage was awful and revolting. Some threw themselves into the river; but the unerring bullet struck their heads as they swani. Nearly everyone of the niire hundred war- rios were killed A few probably, in the night, swam the river and escaped. This ended the war. The [jower of the Creeks was broken forever. This bold plunge into the wilderness, with itsterriffic slaughter, so appalled the savages, that the haggard remnants of the bands came to the camp, begging for peace. This closing of the Creek war enabled us to con- centrate all our militia upon the British, who were the allies of the Indians No man of less resolute will thari Gen. Jackson could have conducted this Indian campaign to so successful an issue Immediately he was appointed major-general. Late in August, with an army of two thousand men, on a rushing march. Gen. Jackson came to Mobile. A British fleet came from Pensacola, landed a force ujxm the beach, arrchored near the little fort, and from both ship and shore conmienccd a furious assault The battle was long and doubtful. At length one of the ships was blown up and the rest retired. Garrisoning Mobile, where he had taken his little army, he moved his troops to New Orleans, And the battle of New Orleans w hich soon ensued, was in reality a very arduous campaign. This won for Gen. Jackson an imperishable name. Here his troops, which numbered about four thousand men, won a signal victory over the Briiish army of about nine thousand. His loss was but thineen, while the loss of the British was two thousand six hundred. The name of Gen. Jackson soon began to be men- tioned in connection with the Presidency, but, in 1824, he was defeated by Mr. Adams. He was, however, successful in the election of 1S28, and was re-elected for a second term in 1832. In 1829, just before he assumed the reins of the government, he met with the most terrible affliction of his life in the death of his wife, whom he had loved with a devotion which has perhaps never been surpassed. From the shock of her death he never recovered. His administration was one of the most n^cmcrabie in the annals of our country; applaude'' oy one party, condemned by the other. No man had more bitter enemies or warmer friends. At the expiration of his two terms of office he retired to the Hermitage, where he died Tune 8, 1845. The last vears of Mr. Jack- son's life were that of a devoted Christian man. / 7 ^ZJ^/ ^c^jU^c.^^^ EIGHTH FRESIDENT. ')«s^^\2)(£)-/®>S^<®V^^€3i^^ ARTIN VAN BUREN, the eighth President of the United States, was born at Kinderhook, N. Y., Dec. 5, 1782. He died at the same Lice, July 24, 1862. His jody rests in the cemetery at Kinderhook. Above it is a plain granite shaft fifteen feet high, bearing a simple inscription about hall way up on one face. The lot is unfenced, unbordered or unbounded by shrub or flower. There is but little in the life of Martin Van Buren of romantic interest. He fought no battles, engaged in no wild adventures. Though liis life was stormy in political and intellectual conflicts, and he gained many signal victories, liis days passed uneventful in those incidents which give zest to biography. His an- cestors, as his name indicates, were of Dutch origin, and were among tiie earliest emigrants from Holland to the banks of the Hudson. His father was a farmer, residing in the old town of Kinderhook. His mother, also of Dutch lineage, was a woman of superior intel- ligence and exemplary piety. .le was decidedly a precocious boy, developing un- usual activity, vigor and strength of mind. At the age of fourteen, he had finished his academic studies in his native village, and commenced the study of law. As he had not a collegiate education, seven years of study in a law-office were required of him «)efore he could be ad.iiitted to the bar. Inspired with A lofty ambition, and conscious of his powers, he pur- sued liis studies with indefatig.ible industry. After spending six ye.ir-; in an office in His native village, he went to the city of New York, and prosecuted his studies for the seventh year. In 1803, Mr. Van Buren, then twenty-one years ol age, commenced the practice of law in his native vil- lage. The great conflict between the Federal and Republican party was then at its height. Mr. Van Buren was from the beginning a politician. He had, perhaps, imbibed that spirit while listenipiig to the many discussions which had been carried on in his father's hotel. He was in cordial sympathy with Jefferson, and earnestly and eloquently espoused the cause of State Rights ; though at that time the Fed- eral ijarty held the supremacy both in his town and State. His success and increasing ruputation led him after six years of practice, to remove to Hudson, tht county seat of his county. Here he spent seven years, constantly gaining strength by contending in tht courts with some of the ablest men who have adorned the bar of his State. Just before leaving Kinderhook for Hudson, Mi. Van Buren married a lady alike distinguished for beauty and accomplishments. After twelve short years she sank into the grave, the victim of consump- tion, leaving her husband and four sons to weep over her loss. For twenty-five years, Mr. Van Buren was an earnest, successful, assiduous lawyer. The record of those years is barren in items of public interest. In 181 2, when thirty years of age, he was chosen to the State Senate, and gave his strenuous support to Mr. Madison's adminstration. In 1815, he was ap- pointed Attorney-General, and the next year moved to All.)any, the. capital of the State. While he was acknovVledged as one of the most liiominent leaders of the Democratic party, he had 48 MARTIN VAN BUREN. the moral courage to avow that true democracy did not require that '' universal suffrage" which admits the vile, the degraded, the ignorant, to the right of governing the State. In true consistency with his democratic principles, he contended that, while the path leading to the privilege of voting should be open to every man without distinction, no one should be invested with that sacred prerogative, unless he were in some degree qualified for it by intelligence, virtue and some property interests in the welfare of the State. In 182 I he was elected ;. member of the United States Senate; and in the same year, he took a seat in the convention to revise the constitution of his .lative State. His course in this convention secured the approval of men of all parties. No one could doubt the singleness of his endeavors to promote the interests of all classes in the community. In the Senate of the United States, he rose at once to a conspicuous position as an active and usefullegislator. In 1827, John Quincy Adams being then in the Presidential chair, Mr. Van Buren was re-elected to .tie Senate. He had been from the beginning a de- lermined opposer of the Administration, adopting the 'Stare Rights" view in opposition to what was deemed the Federal proclivities of Mr. Adams. Soon after this, in 1828, he was chosen Governor of the State of New York, and accordingly resigned his seat in the Senate. Probably no one in the United States contributed so much towards ejecting John Q. Adams from the Presidential chair, and placing in it Andrew Jackson, as did Martin Van Buren. Whether entitled to the reputation or not, he certainly was re- garded througiiout the United States as one of the jnost skillful, sagacious and cunning of politicians. It was supix)sed that no one knew so well as he how to touch the secret spiings of action; how to pull all ;he wires to put his machinery in motion; and how to organize a political army which would, secretly and pter-'thily accomplish the most gigantic results. By these powers it is said tliat he outv.'itted Mr. Adams, Mr. Clay, Mr. Webster, and secured results which few thought then could be accomplished. \^\\i:\ Andrew Jackson was elected President he appointed Mr. Van Buren Secretary of State. This position he resigned in i83t, and was immediately appointed Minister to England, where he went the same autumn. The Senate, however, when it met, .'■etu:>ed to ratifv the nomination, and he returned home, apparently imtroubled; was nominated Vice President in the pLace of Calhoun, at the re-election of President lackson ; and with smiles for all and fiowns for none, he took his place at the head of that Senate which lud refused to confirm his nomination as ambassador. His rejection by the Senate roused all the zeal of President Jackson in behalf of his repudiated favor- ite ; and this, probably mure than any other cause, secured his elevation to the chair of the Chief Esecu tive. On the 20th of May, 1836, Mr. Van Buren re- ceived the Democratic nomination to succeed Gen. Jackson as President of the United States He was elected by a handsome majority, to the delight of the retiring President. " Leaving New York out of the canvass," sa_ i Mr. Parton, 'the election of Mr. Van Buren to the Presidency was as much the act of Gen. Jackson as though the Constitution had conferred upon him the power to appoint a successor." His administration was filled with exciting events- 'i"he insurrection in Canada, which threatened to in- volve this country in war with England, the agitation of the slavery question, and finally the great commer- cial panic which spread over the country, all were trials to his wisdom. The financial distress was at- tributed to the management of the Democratic party, and brought the President into such disfavor that he failed of re-election. With the exception of being nominated for the Presidency by the "Free Soil" Democrats, in 1848, Mr. Van Buren lived quietVy upon his estate until his death. He had ever been a prudent man, of frugal habits, and living within his income, had now fortunately a competence for his declining years. His unblemished character, his commanding abilities, his unquestioned patriotism, and the distinguished positions which he had occupied in the government of our country, se- cured to him not only the homage of his party, but 4 the respect ot the whole community. It was on the 4th of March, 1841, that Mr. Van Buren retired from the presidency. From his fine estate at Lind^nwald. he still exerted a powerful influence upon the politics of the country. From this time until his death, on the 24th of July, 1862, at the age of eighty years, he resided at Lindenwald, a gentleman of leisure, of culture and of wealth; enjoyirg in a healthy old age, probably far more happiness than he had before experienced amid the stormy scenes of his active life. I I Zt/. /5f /V/iS-'^.^-^TA.^ NINTH PRESIDENT. 5« wtjs8si4® aiiif a4Rass®s i ^ ILLIAM HENRY HARRI- ■f.^ SON, the ninth President of |S tlie United States, was born In at Berkeley, Va., Feb. 9, 1773. Q His father, Benjamin Harri- son, was in comparatively op- ulent circumstances, and was one of the most distinguished men of his day. He was an intimate friend of George Washington, ^\as early elected a member of the Continental Congress, and was conspicuous among the patriots of Virginia in resisting the encroachments of the ISritish crown. In the celebrated Congress of 1775, Benjamin Har- rison and John Hancock were both candidates for the office of speaker. Mr Harrison was subsequently chosen Governor of Virginia, and was twice re-elected. His son, i William Henry, of course enjoyed in childhood all the advantages which wealth and intellectual and cultivated society could give. Hav- ing received a thorough common-school education, he entered Hampden Sidney College, where he graduated with honor soon after the death of his father. He chen repaired to Philadelphia to study medicine under the instructions of Dr. Rush and the guardianship of lObert Morris, both of whom were, with his father, signers of the Declaration of Independence. Jpon the outbreak of the Indian troubles, and not- v/ithstandlng the 'emonslrances of his friends, he aDando'-'ed liis medical studies and entered tlie army, .laving obtained a commission of Ensign from Presi- dent Washington. He was then but 19 years old. From that time he passed gradually upward in rank until he became aid to General Wayne, after whose death he resigned his commission. He was then aj)- pointed Secretary of the North-western Territory. This Territory was then entitled to but one member in Congress and Capt. Harrison was chosen to fill that position. In the spring of 1800 the North-western Territory was divided by Congress into two portions. The eastern portion, comprising the region now embraced in the State of Ohio, was called '" The Territory north-west of the Ohio." The western portion, which included what is now called Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin, was called the "Indiana Territory." Wib liam Henry Harrison, then 27 years of age, was ap ixjinted by John Adams, Governor of the Indiana Territory, and immediately after, also Governor of Upper Louisiana. He was thus ruler over almost as extensive a realm as any sovereign upon the globe. He was Superintendent of Indian Affairs, and was in- vested with powers nearly dictatorial over the n&w rapidly increasing white population. The ability and fidelity with which he discharged these responsible duties may be inferred from the fact that he was four times appointed to this office — first by John Adams, twice by Thomas Jefferson and afterwards by Presi- dent Madison. When he began his adminstration there were but three white settlements in that almost boundless region, now crowded with cities and resounding with all the tumult of wealth and traffic. Oneof these settlements was on the Ohio, nearly opposite Louisville; one at Vincennes, on the Wabash, and the third a French settlement. The vast wilderness over which Gov. Harrisoi» reigned was filled with many tribes of Indians. Aboi" IIBRARY 0NIVERSITY OP lll.lNniS 52 WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON. the year 1806, two extraordinary men, twin brothers, of the Shawnese tribe, rose among them. One of these was called Tecumseh, or " The Crouching Panther;" the other, Olliwacheca, or "The Prophet." Tecumseh was not only an Indian warrior, but a man of great sagacity, far-reaching foresight and indomit- able perseverance in any enterprise in which he might engage. He was inspired with the highest enthusiasm, and had long regarded with dread and with hatred the encroachment of the whites upon the hunting- grounds of his fathers. His brother, the Prophet, was an orator, who could sway the feelings of the untutored Indian as the gale tossed the tree-tops beneath which they dwelt. But the Prophet was not merely an orator: he was, in the superstitious minds of the Indians, invested with the superhuman dignity of a medicine-man or a magician. With an enthusiasm unsurpassed by Peter the Hermit rousing Europe to the crusades, he went from tribe to tribe, assuming that he was specially sent by the Great Spirit. Gov. Harrison made many attempts to conciliate the Indians, but at last the war came, and at Tippe- canoe the Indians were routed with great slaughter. October 28, 1812, his army began its march. When near the Prophet's town three Indians of rank made their appearance and inquired why Gov. Harrison was approaching them in so hostile an attitude. After a short conference, arrangements were made for a meet- ing the next day, to agree upon terms of peace. But Gov. Harrison was too well acquainted with the Indian character to be deceived by such protes- tations Selecting a favorable six)t for his night's en- campment, he took every precaution against surprise. His troops were posted in a hollow square, and slept upon their arms. The troops threw themselves upon the ground for rest; but every man had his accourtrements on, his loaded musket by his side,and his bayonet fixed. The wakeful Governor, between three and four o'clock in the morning, had risen, and was sitting in conversa- tion with his aids by the embers of a waning fire. It was a chill, cloudy morning with a drizzling rain. In the darkness, the Indians had crept as near as possi- ble, and j'lst then, with a savage yell, rushed, with all the desperation which superstition and passion most highly inflamed could give, upon the left flank of the httle army. The savages had been amply provided with guns and ammunition by the English. Their war-whoop was accompained by a shower of bullets. The camp-fires were instantly extinguished, as the light aided the Indians in their aim. With hide- ous yells, the Indian bands rushed on, not doubtii-.g a speedy and an entire victory. But Gen. Harrison's troops stood as immovable as the rocks around them until day dawned : they then made a simultaneous charge with the bayonet, and swept every thing be- fore them, and completely routing th^ foe. Gov. Harrison now had all his energies tasked to the utmost. The British descending Iruni theCan- adas, were of themselves a very formidal)ie force ; but with their savage allies, rushing like wolves I'roni the forest, searching out every remote farm-house, Imrn- ing, plundering, scalping, torturing, the wide frontier was plunged into a state of consternation wliich even the most vivid imagination can but faintly conceive. Tiie war-whoop was resounding everywhere in the forest. The horizon was illuminated with the conflagra- tion of the cabins of the settlers. Gen Hull had made the ignominious surrender of his forces at Detroit. Under these despairing circumstances. Gov. Harrison was appointed by President Madison commander-in- chief of the North-western army, with orders to retake Detroit, and to protect the frontiers. It would be difficult to place a man in a situation demanding more energy, sagacity and courage; bul General Harrison was found equal to the position, and nobly and triumphantly did he meet all the re- sponsibilities. He won the love of his soldiers by always sharing with them their fatigue. His whole baggage, while pursuing the foe up the Thames, was carried in a valise; and his bedding consisted of a single blanket lashed over his -saddle Thirty-five British officers, his prisoners of war, supped with him after the battle. The only fare he could give them was beef roasted before the fire, witliout bread or salt. In 1816, Gen. Harrison was chosen a member of the National House of Representatives, to represent the District of Ohio. In Congress he proved an active member; and whenever he spoke, it was with force of reason and power of eloquence, which arrested the attention of all the members. In 1819, Harrison was elected to the Senate of Ohio; and in 1824, as one of the jjresidential electors of that State, he gave his vote for Henry Clay. Tlie same year he was chosen to the United States Senate. In 1836, the friends of Gen. Harrison brought him forward as a candidate for the Presidency against Van Buren, but he was defeated. At the close of Mr. Van Buren's term, he was re -nominated by his party, and Mr. Harrison was unanimously nominated by the Whigs, with John Tyler forthe Vice Presidency. The contest was very animated. Gen Jackson gave all his influence to prevent Harrison's election ; but his triumph was signal. The cabinet which he formed, with Daniel Webster at its head as Secretary of State, was one of the most brilliant with wliich any President had ever been surrounded. Never were the prospects of an admin- istration more flattering, or the hopes of the country more sanguine. In the midst of these bright and joyous prospects. Gen. . Harrison was seized by a pleurisv-fever and after a few days of violent sick- ness, died on the 4th of April ; just one month after his inauguration as President of the United States. Tyn TENTH PRESIDENT. S5 -ife Presidentof the United States. He was born in Charles-city Co., Va., March 29, 1790. He was the favored child of af- fluence and high social po- sition. At the early age of twelve, John entered William and Mary College and grad- uated with much honor when but seventeen years old. After graduating, he devoted him- self with great assiduity to the study of law, partly with his father and partly with Edmund ! g fi Randolph, one of the most distin- guished lawyers of Virginia. At nineteen years of age, ne commenced the practice of law. His success was rapid and aston- ishing. It is said that three months had not elapsed ere there was scarcely a case on the dock- I et of the court in which he was 1. 3t retained. When but twenty-one years of age, he was almost unanimously ejected to a seat in the State Legislature. He connected himself with the Demo- cr;itic party, and warmly advocated the measures of lefferson and Madison. For five successive years he \vi;s elected to the Legislature, receiving nearly the unanimous vote or his county. When but twenty-six years of age, he was elected a niemiier of Congress. Here he acted earnestly and ably with ihe Democratic party, opposing a national bank, inu-nal improvements by the General 'Govern- ment, a protective tariff, and advocatmg a strict con- struction of the Constitution, and the most careful vigilance over State rights. His labors in Congress were so arduous that before the close of his second term he found it necessary to resign and retire to his estate in Charles-city Co., to recruit his health. He, however, soon after consented to take his seat in the State Legislature, where his influence was powerful in promoting public works of great utility. VVith a reputation thus canstantly increasing, he was chosen by a very large majority of votes, Governor of his native State. His administration was signally a suc- cessful one. His popularity secured his re-election. John Randolph, a brilliant, erratic, half-crazed man, then represented Virginia in the Senate of the United States, k portion of the Democratic party was displeased with Mr. Randolph's wayward course, and brought forward John Tyler as his op|X)nenf, considering him the only man in Virginia of sufficient popularity to succeed against the renowned orator of Roanoke. Mr. Tyler was the victor. In accordance with his professions, upon taking his seat in the Senate, he joined the ranks of the opposi- tion. He opposed the tariff"; he spoke against and voted against the bank as unconstitutional ; he stren- uously opposed all restrictions upon slavery, resist- ing all projects of internal improvements by the Gen- eral Government, and avowed his sympathy with Mr. Calhoun's view of nullification ; he declared that Gen. Jackson, by his opposition to the nullifiers, had abandoned the principles of the Democratic party. Such was Mr. Tyler's record in Congress, — a record in perfect accordance with the principles which be had always avowed. Returning to Virginia, he resumed the practice of his profession. There was a rplii in the Democratic JOHN TYLER. J arty. His friends still regarded him as a true Jef- ieisonian, gave him a dinner, and showered compli- ments upon him. He had now attained the age of forty-six. His career had been very brilliant. In con- sequence of his devotion to public business, his pri- vate affairs had fallen into some disorder; and it was not without satisfaction that he resumed the practice of law, and devoted himself to the culture of his plan- tation. Soon after this he removed to Williamsburg, for the better education of his children ; and he again look his seat in the Legislature of Virginia. By the Southern Whigs, he was sent to the national convention at Harrisburg to nominate a President in 7839. The maioritv of votes were given to Gen. Har- rison, a genuine Whig, much to the disappointment of the South, who wished for Henry Clay. To concili- ate the Southern Whigs and to secure their vote, the convention then nominated John Tyler for Vice Pres- ident. It was well known that he was not in sympa- thy with the Whig party in the Noith: but the Vice President has but very little power in the Govern- ment, his main and almost only duty being to pre- side over the meetings of the Senate. Thus it hap- pened that a Whig President, and, in reality, a Democratic Vice President were chosen. In 1841, Mr. Tyler was inaugurated Vice Presi- dent of the United States. In one short month from that time, President Harrison died, and Mr. Tyler thus -:und himself, to his own surprise and that of the whole Nation, an occupant of the Presidential chair. This was a new test of the stability of our institutions, as it was the first time in the history of our country that such an event had occured. Mr. Tyler was at home in Williamsburg when he received the une.xpected tidings of the death of President Harri- son. He hastened to Washington, and on the 6th of A;"ril v/as inaugurated to the high and responsible office. He was placed in a position of exceeding delicacy and difficulty. All his long life he had been opposed tc the main principles of the party which had brought him into power. He had ever been a con- sistent, honL:t man, with an unblemished record. Gen. Harrison had selected a Whig cabinet. Should he retain them, and thus surround himself with coun- sellors whose views were antagonistic to his own.' or, on the other hand, should he turn against the party which had elected him and select a cabinet in har- nr.ony with himself, and which would oppose all those views which the Whigs deemed essential to the pub- lic welfare? This was his fearful dilemma. He in- vited the cabinet which President Hanrison had selected to retain their seats. He reccomm-nded a day of fasting and prayer, that God would guide and bless us. The Whigs carried through Congress a bill for the incor[X)ration of a fiscal bank of the United States. The President, after ten days' delay, returned it with his veto. He suaeested, however, that he would approve of a bill drawn up upon such a plan as he proposed. Such a bill was accordingly prepared, and privately submitted to him. He gave it his approval. It ",vas passed without alteration, and he sent it back with his veto. Here commenced the open rupture. It is said that Mr. Tyler was provoked to this meas- ure by a published letter from the Hon. John M. Botts, a distinguished Virginia Whig, who severely touched the pride of the President. The opposition now exultingly received the Presi- dent into their arms. The party which elected him denounced him bitterl)-. All the members of his cabinet, e.xcepting Mr. Webster, resigned. The Whigs of Congress, both the Senate and the House, held a meeting and issued an address to the people of the United States, proclaiming tliat all political alliance between the Whigs and President Tyler were at an end. Still the President attempted to conciliate. He appointed a new cabinet of distinguished Whigs and Conservatives, carefully leaving out all strong party men. Mr. Webster soon found it necessary to resign, forced out by the pressure of his Whig friends. Thus the four years of Mr. Tyler's unfortunate administra- tion passed sadly away. iVo one was satisfied. The land was filled with murmurs and vituperation. Whigs and Democrats alike assailed him. More and more, however, he brought himself into sympathy with his old friends, the Democrats, until at the close of his term, he gave his whole influence to the support of Mr. Polk, the Democratic candidate for his successor. On the 4th of March, 1845, he retired from the harassments of office, to the regret of neither party, and probably to his own unspeakable relief. His first wife. Miss Letitia Christian, died in Washington, in 1842; and in June, 1844, President Tyler was again married, at New York, to Miss Julia (lardiner, a young lady of many personal and intellectual accomplishments. The remainder of his days Mr. Tyler passed mainly in retirement at his beautiful home, — Sherwood For- est, Charles-city Co., Va. A polished gentleman in his manners, richly furnished with information from books and experience in the world, and possessing brilliant powers of conversation, his family circle was the scene of unusual attractions. With sufficient means for the exercise of a generous hospitality, he might have enjoyed a serene old age with the few friends who gathered around him, were it not for the storms of civil war which his own principles and policy had helped to introduce. When the great Rebellion rose, which the State- rights and nullifying doctrines of Mr. John C. Ca\- houn had inaugurated, President Tyler renounced his allegiance to the United States, and joined the Confed- erates. He was chosen a member of their Congress; and while engaged in active measures to destroy, b" force of arms, the Government over which he had once presided, he was taken sick and soon died. ^.s^ ELEVENTH PRESIDENT. 59 AMES K. POLK, the eleventh |LPresident of the United States, was born in Mecklenburg Co., N. C.,Nov. 2, 1795. His par- ents were Samuel and Jane (Knox) Polk, the former a son of Col. Thomas Polk, who located at the above place, as one of the first pioneers, in 1735. In the )'ear i3o6, with his wife and children, and soon after fol- lowed by most of the members of the Polk famly, Samuel Polk emi- grated some two or three hundred miles farther west, to the rich valley of the Duck River. Here in the midst of the wilderness, in a region which was subsequently called Mau- ry Co., they reared their log huts, and established their homes. In the hard toil of a new farm in the wil- derness, James K. Polk spent the early years of his childhood and youth. His father, adding the pur- suit cf a surveyor to that of a farmer, gradually increased in wealth until he became one of the leading men of the region. His mother was a superior woman, of strong common sense and earnest piety. Very early in life, James developed a taste for reading and expressed the strongest desire to obtain a liberal education. His mother's training had made liim methodical in his habits, had taught him punct- uality and industry, and had inspired him with lofty principles of morality. His health was frail ; and his £ather, fearing that he migiit not be able to endure a sedentary life, got a situation for him behind the counter, hoping to fit him for commercial pursuits. This was to James a bitter disappointment. He had no taste for these duties, and his daily tasks were irksome in the extreme. He remained in this uncongenial occupation but a few weeks, when at his earnest solicitation his father removed hiwi, and made arrangements for him to prosecute his studies. Soon after he sent him to Murfreesboro Academy. With ardor which could scarcely be surpassed, he pressed forward in his studies, and in less than two and a half years, in the autumn of 1815, entered the sophomore class in the University of North Carolina, at Chapel' Hill. Here he was one of the most exemplary of scholars, punctual in every exercise, never allowing himself to be absent from a recitation or a religious service. He graduated in 1818, with the highest honors, be- ing deemed the best scholar of his class, both in mathematics and the classics. He was then twenty- three years of age. Mr. Polk's health was at this time much impaired by the assiduity with which he had prosecuted his studies. After a short season of relaxation he went to Nashville, and entered the office of Felix Grundy, to study law. Here Mr. Polk renewed his acquaintance with Andrew Jackson, who resided on his plantation, the Hermitage, but a few miles from Nashville. They had probably been slightly acquainted before. Mr. Polk's father was a Jeffersonian Republican, and James K. Polk ever adliered to the same politi- cal faith. He was a popular public speaker, and was constantly called upon to address the meetings of his party friends. His skill as a speaker was such that he was popularly called the Napoleon of the stump. He was a man of unblemished morals, genial and 6o /AMES K. POLK. courterus in his bearing, and with that sympathetic nature in the jo) s and gnefs of others which ever gave him troops of friends. In 1823, Mr. Polk was elected to the Legislature of Tennessee. Here he gave his strong intluence towards the election of his friend, Mr. Jackso:i, to the Presidency of the United States. In January, 1824, Mr. Polk married Miss Sarah Childress, of Rutherford Co., Tenn. His bride was altogether worthy of him, — a lady of beauty and cul- ture. In the fall of 1825, Mr. Polk was chosen a member of Congress. The satisfaction which he gave to his constituents may be inferred from the fact, that for fourteen successive years, until 1839, he was con- tinuec in that office. He then voluntarily withdrew, only that he might accept the Gubernatorial chair of Tennessee. In Congress he was a laborious member, a frequent and a po[)ular speaker. He was alwoys in his seat, always courteous; and whenever he spoke it was always to the point, and without any ambitious rhetorical display. During five sessions of Congress, Mr. Polk was Speaker of the House Strong passions were roused, and stormy scenes were witnessed ; but Mr Polk per- formed his arduous duties to a very general satisfac- tion, and a unanimous vote of thanks to him was passed by the House as he withdrew on the 4th of March, 1839. In accordance with Southern usage, Mr. Polk, as a candidate for Governor, canvassed the State. He was elected by a large majority, and on the 14th of Octo- ber, 1839, took the oath of office at Nashville. Ini84i, his term of office expired, and he was again the can- didate of the Democratic party, but was defeated. On the 4th of March, 1845, Mr. Polk was inaugur- ated President of the United States. The verdict of the country in favor of the annexalionof Texas, exerted its influence upon Congress ; and the last act of the administration of President Tyler was to affix his sig- nature to a joint resolution of Congress, passed on the 3d of March, approving of the annexation of Texas to the American Union. As Mexico still claimed Texas as one of her provinces, the Mexican minister, Almonte, immediately demanded his passports and left the country, declaring the act of the annexation to be an act hostile to Mexico. In his first message. President Polk urged that Texas should immediately, by act of Congress, be re- ceived into the Union on the same footing with the other States. In the meantime, Gen. Taylor was sent with an army into Texas to hold the country. He was sent first to Nueces, which the Mexicans said wis the western boundary of Texas. Then he was sent .nearly two hundred miles further west, to the Rio Grande, where he erected batteries which commanded the Mexican city of Matamoras, which was situated on the western banks. The anticipated collision soon took place, and wai was declared against Mexico by President Polk. The war was pushed forward by Mr. Polk's administration with great vigor. Gen. Taylor, whose army was first called one of "observation," then of "occupation,' thenof" invasion, "was sent forward to Monterey. The feeble Mexicans, in every encounter, were hopelessly and awfully slaughtered. The day of judgement alone can reveal the misery which this war caused. It v/as by the ingenuity of Mr. Polk's administration that the war was brought on. 'To the victors belong the spoils." Mexico was prostrate before us. Her capital was in our hands. We now consented to peace upon the condition that Mexico should surrender to us, in addition to Texas, all of New Mexico, and all of Upper and Lower Cal- ifornia. This new demand embraced, exclusive of Texas, eight hundred thousand square miles. This was an extent of territory equal to nine States of the size of New York. Thus slavery was securing eighteen majestic States to be added to the Union. There were some Americans who thought it all right: there were others who thought it all wrong. In the prosecution of this war, we expended twentv thousand lives and more than a hundred million of dollars. Of this money fifteen millions were paid to Mexico. On the 3d of March, 1849, Mr. Polk retired from office, having served one term. The next day was Sunday. On the 5th, Gen. Taylor was inaugurated as his successor. Mr Polk rode to the Capitol in tlie same carriage with Gen. Taylor; and the same even- ing, with Mrs. Polk, he commenced his return to Tennessee. He was then but fifty-four years of age. He had ever been strictly temperate in all his habits, and his health was good. With an ample fortune, a choice library, a cultivated mind, and domestic ties of the dearest nature, it seemed as though long years of tranquility and happiness were before him. But the cholera — that fearful scourge — was then sweeping up the Valley of the Mississippi. This he contracted, and died on the 15th of June, 1849, in the fiftv-fourth year of his age, greatly mourned by his countrymen. '7.ci.c>/i^:^c.-:>^/[^^^^ , TWELFTH PRESIDENT. 63 i -1C^V.V.j ? l^'■^•^^ ACHARY TAYLOR, twelfth President of the United States, -^<*\vas born on the 24lh of Nov., 1784, in Orange Co., Va. His 2io father, Colonel Taylor, was S^J^tJ-S'W^Jy'^ a Virginian of note, and a dis- tinguished patriot and soldier of the Revolution. When Zachary was an infant, his father with his wife and two children, emigrated to Kentucky, where he settled in the pathless wilderness, a few miles from Louisville. In this front- ier home, away from civilization and all its refinements, young Zachary could enjoy but few social and educational advan- tages. When six years of age he attended a common school, and was then regarded as a bright, active boy, rather remarkable for bbintness and decision of char- acter He was strong, feailess and self-reliant, and manifested a strong desire to enter tlie army to fight the Lidians who were ravaging the frontiers. There is little to l)e recorded of the uneventful years of his childhood o;i his father's large but lonely plantation. In 1808, his father succeeded in obtaining for him the commission of lieutenant in the United States army ; and he joined the troops which were stationed at New Orleans under Gen. Wilkinson. Soon after this he married Miss Margaret Smith, a young lady from one of the first families of Maryland. Immediately after the declaration of war with Eng- land, in i8i2, Capt. Taylor (for he had then been promoted to that rank) was put in command of Fort Harrison, on the Wabash, about fifty miles above Vincennes. This fort had been built in the wilder- ness by Gen. Harrison, on his march to Tippecanoe. It was one of the first points of attack by the Indians, led by Tecumseh. Its garrison consisted of a broken company of inf;xntry numbering fifty men, many of whom were sick. Early in the autumn of 1812, the Indians, stealthily, and in large numbers, moved uixin the fort. Their approach was first indicated by the murder of two soldiers just outside of the stockade. Capt. Taylor made every possible preparation to meet the antici- pated assault. On the 4th of September, a band of forty painted and plumed savages came to the fort, waving a white flag, and informed Capt. Taylor that in the morning their chief would come to have a talk with him. It was evident that their object was merely to ascertain the state of things at the fort, and Capt. Taylor, well versed in the wiles of the savages, kept them at a distance. The sun went down; the savages disappeared, the garrison slept upon their arms. One hour before midnight the war whooi) burst from a thousand lips in the forest around, followed by the discharge of musketry, and the rush of the foe. Every man, sick and well, sprang to his post. Every man knew that defeat was not merely death, but in the case of cap- ture, death by the most agonizing and prolonged tor- ture. No pen can describe, no immagination can conceive the scenes which ensued. Tiie savages suc- ceeded in setting fire to one of the block -houses- Until six o'clock in the morning, this awful conflict continued. The savages then, baffled at every point, and gnashing their teeth with rage, retired. Capt. Taylor, for this gallant defence, was promoted to the rank of major by brevet. Until the close of the war, MajorTaylor was placed in such situations that he saw but little more of active service. He was sent far away into the depths of the wilderness, to Fort Crawford, on Fox River, which empties into Green Bay. Here there was but little to be done but to wear away the tedious hours as one best could. There were no books, no society, no in- 04 ZACHARY TAYLOR. tellectual stimulus. Thus with him the uneventful years rolled on Gradually he rose to the rank of colonel. In the Black-Hawk war, which resulted in the capture of that renowned chieftain, Col Taylor took a subordinate but a brave and efficient part. For twenty-four years Col. Taylor was engaged in ;the defence of the frontiers, in scenes so remote, and m 'employments so obscure, that his name was unknown beyond the limits of his own immediate acquaintance. In the year 1836, he was seat to Florida to compel the Seminole Indians to vacate that region and re- tire beyond the Mississippi, as their chiefs by treaty, iiac' promised they should do. The services rendered he.c secured for Col. Taylor the high appreciation of the Government; and as a reward, he was elevated tc .he rank of brigadier-general by brevet ; and soon after, in May, 1838, was appointed to the chief com- mand of the United States troops in Florida. After two years of svich wearisome employment riHiidst the everglades of the peninsula. Gen. 'Faylor obtained, at his own request, a change of command, r.nd was stationed over the Department of the South- west. This field embraced Louisiana, Mississijipi, Alabama and Georgia. Establishing his headquarters at Fort Jessup, in Louisiana, he removed his family to a plantation which he purchased, near Baton Rogue. Here he remained for five years, buried, as it were, from the world, but faithfully discharging every duty imixjsed ujxin him. In 1846, Gen. Taylor was sent to guard the land between the Nueces and Rio Grande, the latter river being the boundary of Texas, which was then claimed .by the United States. Soon the war with Mexico was brought on, and at Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma, Gen. Taylor won brilliant victories over the Mexicans. The rank of major-general by brevet was then conferred upon Gen. Taylor, and his name Was received with enthusiasm almost everywhere in the Nation. Then came the battles of Monterey and Buena Vista in which he won signal victories over forces much larger than he commanded. His careless habits of dress and his unaffected ■simplicity, secured for Gen. Taylor among his troops, \\\^ sobriquet of "Old Rough and Ready.' Tiie tidings of the brilliant victory of Buena Vista .-pread the wildest enthusiasm over the country. The name of Gen. Taylor was on every one's lips. The Whig party decided to take advantage of this wonder- ful popularity in bringing forward the unpolished, un- ■ "•■ed, honest soldier as their candidate for the I'residency. Gen. Taylor was astonished at the an- nouncement, and for a time would not listen to it; de- claring that he was not at all qualified for such an offtce. So little interest had he taken in politics that, for forty years, he had not cast a vote. It was not without chagrin that several distinguished statesmen who had lieen long years m the ])ublic service found '\.z\x claims set aside in behalf of one whose name had never been heard of, save in connection with Palo Alto, Resaca de la Palma, Monterey and Buena Vista. It is said that Daniel Webster, in his haste re- marked, " It is a nomination not fit to be made." Gen. Taylor was not an eloquent speaker nor a fine writer His friends took possession of him, and pre- pared such few communications as it was needful should be presented to the public. The popularity of the successful warrior swept the land. He was tri- umphantly elected over two opposing candidates, — Gen. Cass and Ex-President Martin Van Buren. Thougli he selected an excellent cabinet, the good old man found himself in a very uncongenial position, and was, at times, sorely perplexed and harassed. His mental sufferings were very severe, and probably tended to hasten his death. The pro-slavery party was pushing its claims with tireless energy , expedi- tions were fitting out to capture Cuba ; California was pleading for admission to the Union, while slavery stood at the door to bar her out. Gen. Taylor found the political conflicts in Washington to be far more trying to the nerves than battles with Mexicans or Indians In the midst of all these troubles. Gen. Taylor, after he had occupied the Presidential chair but little over a year, took cold, and after a brief sickness of but little over five days, died on the 9th of July, 1850. His last words were, " I am not afraid to die. I am ready. I have endeavored to do my duty." He died universally respected and beloved. An honest, un- pretending man, he had been steadily growing in the affections of the people ; and the Nation bitterly la- mented his death. Gen. Scott, who was thoroughly acquainted with Gen. Taylor, gave the following graphic and truthful description of his character: — " With a good store of common sense, Gen. Taylor's mind had not been en- larged and refreshed by reading, or much converse with the world. Rigidity of ideas was the conse- quence. The frontiers and small military posts had been his home. Hence he was quite ignorant for his rank, and quite bigoted in his ignorance. His sim- plicity was child-like, and with innumerable preju- dices, amusing and incorrigible, well suited to the tender age. Thus, if a man, however respectable, chanced to wear a coat of an unusual color, or his hat a little on one side of his head; or an officer to leave a corner of his handkerchief dangling from an out* side pocket, — in any such case, this critic held the offi.'nder to be a coxcomb (perhaps something worse), whom he would not, to use his oft repeated phrase, ' touch with a pair of tongs.' "Any allusion to literature beyond good old Dil- worth's spelling-book, on the part of one wearing a sword, was evidence, with the same judge, of utter unfitness for heavy marchings and combats. Inshor* few men have ever had a more comfortarAe. '-'>^'^t. saving contempt for learning of every kind.' J^ i/s ^ f^^^-t^^-T^xru) thirteejsTth president. 67 'Hi ■MILLflRn FILLMnHE. -e-^ 4^ ILLARD FILLMORE, thir- ^ teentli President of the United States, was born at Summer Hill, Cayuga Co., N. Y ., on the 7th of January, 1800. His '^'^ father was a farmer, and ow- ing to misfortune, in haml)le cir- cumstances. Of his mother, the daughter of Dr. Abiathar Millard, of Pittsfield, Mass., it has been said tliat she [xjssessed an intellect of very high order, united with much personal loveliness, sweetness of dis- position, graceful manners and ex- quisite sensibilities. She died in 1831 ; having lived to see her son a ' young man of distinguished prom- ise, though she was not permitted to witness the high dignity which he finally attained. In consequence of the secluded home and limited raeans of his father, Millard enjoyed liut slender ad- vantages for education in his early years. The com- mon schools, which he occasionally attended were very imperfect institutions; and books were scarce and expensive. There was nothing then in his char- acter to indicate the brilliant career upon which he was about to enter. He was a plain farmer's boy; intelligent, good-looking, kind-hearted. The sacred influences of home had taught him to revere the Bible, and had laid the foundations of an upright character. When fourteen years of age, his father sent him some hundred miles from home, to the then wilds of Livingston County, to learn the trade of a clothier. Neav the mill there was a small villiage, where some enterprising man had commenced the collection of a village library. Tliis proved an inestimable blessing to young Fillmore. His evenings were spent in read- ing. Soon every leisure moment was occupied with books. His thirst for knowledge became insatiate and the selections which he made were continually more elevating and instructive. He read history, biography, oratory , and thus gradually there was en- kindled in his heart a desire to be something more than a mere worker with his hands; and he was be- coming, almost unknown to himself, a well-informed, educated man. The young clothier had now attained the age of nineteen years, and was of fine personal appearance and of gentlemanly demeanor. It so happened tha'. there was a gentleman in the neighborhood of ample pecuniary means and of benevolence, — Judge Walter Wood, — who was struck with the prepossessing an- pearance of young Fillmore. He made his acquaint- ance, and was so much impressed with his ability and attainments that he advised him to abandon his trade and devote himself to the study of the law. The young man replied, that he had no means of his own, r.o friends to help him and that his previous educa- tion had been very imperfect. But Judge Wood had so much confidence in him that he kindly offered to take him into his own office, and to loan him such money as he needed. Most gratefully the generous offer was accepted. There is in many minds a strange delusion about a collegiate education. A young man is supposed to be liberally educated if he has graduated at some col- lege. But many a boy loiters through university hal' ■ ind then enters a law office, who is by no means as 06 MILLARD FILLMORE. well prepared to prosecute his legal studies as was Millard Fillmore when he graduated at the clothing- mill at the end of four years of manual labor, during which every leisure moment had been devoted to in- tense mental culture. In 1S23, when twenty-three years of age, he v/as admitted to the Court of Common Pleas. He then went to the village of Aurora, and commenced the practice of law. In this secluded, peaceful region, his practice of course was limited, and there was no opportunity for a sudden rise in foitune or in fame. Here, in the year 1826, he married a lady of great moral worth, and one capable of adorning any station she might be called to fill, — Miss Abigail Powers. His elevation of character, his untiring industry, his legal acquirements, and his skill as an advocate, gradually attracted attention ; and he was invited to enter into partnership under highly advantageous circumstances, with an elder member of the bar in Piuffalo. Just before removing to Buffalo, in 1829, he took his seat in the House of Assembly, of the State of New York, as a representative from Erie County. Though he'had never taken a very active part in politics, his vote and his sympathies were with the Whig party. The State was then Democratic, and he found himself in a helpless minority in the Legislature , still the testimony comes from all parties, that his courtesy, ability and integrity, won, to a very unusual degn e the respect of his associates. In the autumn of 1832, he was elected to a seat in the United States Congress He entered that troubled arena in some of the most tumultuous hours of our national history. The great conflict respecting the national bank and the removal of the deposits, was then raging. His term of two years closed ; and he returned to his profession, which he pursued with increasing rep- utation and success. After a lapse of two years he again became a candidate for Congress ; was re- elected, and took his seat in 1837. His past expe- rience as a representative gave hmi sttength and confidence. The first term of service in Congress to any man can be but little more than an introduction. He was now prepared for active duty. All his ener- gies were brought to bear w\x>n the public good. Every measure received his impress. Mr. Fillmore was now a man of wide repute, and his popularity filled the State, and in the year 1847, he was elected Comptroller of the State. Mr. Fillmore had attained the age of forty-seven years. His labors at the bar, in the Legislature, in Congress and as Comptroller, had given him very con- siderable fame. The Whigs were casting about to find suitable candidates for President and Vice-Presi- dent at the approaching election. Far away, on the waters of the Rio Grande, there was a rough old soldier, who had fought one or two successful battles with the Mexicans, which had caused his name to be proclaimed in tiumpet-tones all over the land. But it was necessary to associate with him on the same ticket some man of reputation as a statesman. Under the influence of tliese considerations, tlie namesof Zachary Taylor ar.d Millard Fillmore became the rallying-cry of tjie Whigs, as their candidates fur President and Vice-Peesident. The Whig ticket was signally triumphant. On tlie 4th of March, 1849, Gen. Taylor was inaugurated President, and Millard Fillmore Vice-President, of the United States. On the 9th of July, 1850, President Taylor, but about one year and lour mcnths after his inauguia tion, was suddenly taken sick and died. By the Con- stitution, Vice-President Fillmore thus became Presi- dent. He appointed a very able cabinet, of which the illustrious Daniel Webster was Secretary of State. Mr. Fillniore had very serious difficulties to contend with, since the opiwsition had a majority in both Houses. He did everything in his power tocontiliate the South; but the pro-slavery party in the South felt the inadequacy of all measuresof transient conciliation. The population of the free States was so rapidly in- creasing over that of the slave States that it was in- evitable that the power of the Government sliould soon pass into the hands of the free States. The famous compromise measures were adopted under Mr. Fillmcre's adminstration, and the Japan Expedition was sent out. On the 4th of March, 1853, Mr, Fill- more, liaving served one term, retired. In 1856, Mr. Fillmore was nominated for the Pres- idency by the " Know Nothing " party, but was beaten by Mr. Buchanan. After that Mr. Fillmore lived in retirement. During the terrible conflict of civil war, he was mostly silent. It was generally supposed iha* his sympathies were rather with those who were en- deavoring to overthrow our instUutions. President Fillmore kept aloof from the conflict, without any cordial words of cheer to the one party or the other. He was thus forgotten by both. He lived to a ri])e old age, and died in Buffalo. N. Y., March 8, 1874. FOURTEENTH PRESIDENT. 71 (is\ ''-■*\ \ ?',:!*- -iiOT „„. ». , TI TT Tr mr TT' T Tmr Tt ■w-wt -rx -w-i -*-t u ._ ..„-'?': (■^i ' ^i- FRANKLIN FIEHEE. 3<: g^'^^'^y''y'--^-"-"t^-^^^ SI =S.p??C«'»*^' S5«— '"^irtrti :p^( RANKLIN PIERCE, the m ibiirteenth President of the Jr United States, was born in Hillsborough, N. H., Nov. 23, 1804. His father was a Revolutionary soldier, who, with his own strong arm, hewed out a home in the wilderness. He was a man of inflexible integrity; of strong, though uncultivated mind, and an uncompromis- ing Democrat. The mother of Franklin Pierce was all that a son could desire, — an intelligent, pru- dent, affectionate, Cliristian wom- an. Franklin was the sixtli of eight children. Franklin was a very bright and handsome boy, gen- erous, warm-hearted and brave. He won alike the love of old and young. The boys on the play ground loved him. His teachers loved him. The neighbors looked upon him with pride and affection. He was by instinct a gentleman; always speaking kind words, doing kind deeds, with a peculiar unstudied tact which taught him what was agreeable. Without de- veloping any precocity of genius, or any unnatural devotion to books, he was a good scholar ; in body, in mind, in affections, a finely-developed boy. When sixteen years of age, in the year 1820, he entered Bowdoin College, at Brunswick, Me He was one of the most popular young men in the college. The purity cf his moral character, the unvarying courtesy of his demeanor, his rank as a scholar, and genial nature, rendered him a universal favorite. There was something very peculiarly winning in his address, and it was evidently not in the slightest de- gree studied: it was the simple outgushing of his own magnanimous and loving nature. Upon graduating, ill the year 1824, Franklin Pierce commenced the study of law in the office of Judge Woodbury, one of the most distinguished lawyers of the State, and a man of great private worth. The eminent social qualities of the young lawyer, his father's prominence as a public man, and the brilliant political career into which Judge Woodbury was en- tering, all tended to entice Mr. Pierce into the faci- nating yet perilous path of political life. With all the ardor of his nature he esiioused the cause of Gen. Jackson for the Presidency. He commenced the practice of law in Hillsborough, and was soon elected to represent the town in the State Legislature. Here he served for four yeais. The last two years he was chosen speaker of the house by a very large vote. In 1833, at the age of twenty-nine, he was elected a member of Congress. Without taking an active part in debates, he was faithful and laborious in duty and ever rising in the estimation of those with whom he was associatad. In 1837, being then but thirty-three years of age, he was elected to the Senate of the United States; taking his seat just as Mr. Van Buren commenced his administration. He was the youngest member in the Senate. In the year 1834. he married Miss Jane Means Appleton, a lady of rare beauty and accom- plishments, and one admirably fitted to adorn every station with which her husband was honoied, Of the 72 FRANKLIN FIERCE. three sons who were born to them, all now sleep with their parents in the grave. In the year 1838, Mr. Pierce, with growing fame and increasing business as a lawyer, took up his residence in Concord, the capital of New Hampshire. President Polk, upon his accession to office, appointed Mr. Pierce attorney-general of the United States; but the offer was declined, in consequence of numerous professional engagements at home, and the precariuos state of Mrs. Pierce's health. He also, about the same time declined the nomination for governor by the Democratic party. The war with Mexico called Mr. Pierce in the army. Receiving the appointment of brigadier-general, he embarked, with a portion of his troops, at Newport, R. I., on the 27th of May, 1847. He took an important part in this war, proving him- self a brave and true soldier. When Gen. Pierce reached his home in his native State, he was received enthusiastically by the advo- cates of the Mexican war, and coldly by his oppo- nents. He resumed the practice of his profession, very frequently taking an active part in political ques- tions, giving his cordial support to the pro-slavery wing of the Democratic party. The compromise measures met cordially with his approval ; and he strenuously advocated the enforcement of the infa- mous fugitive-slave law, which so shocked the religious sensibilities of llie North. He thus became distin- guished as a " Northern man with Southern principles.'' The strong partisans of slavery in the South conse- quently regarded him as a man whom they could safely trust in office to carry out their plans. On the I 2th of June, 1852, the Democratic conven- tion met in Baltimore to nominate a candidate for the Presidency. For four days they continued in session, =nd in thirty-five ballotings no one had obtained a two-thirds vote. Not a vote thus far had been thrown for Gen. Pierce. Then the Virginia delegation brought forward his name. There were fourteen more ballotings, during which Gen. Pierce constantly gained strength, until, at the forty-ninth ballot, he received two hundred and eighty-two votes, and all other candidates eleven. Gen. Winfield Scott was the Whig candidate. Gen. Pierce was chosen with great unanimity. Only four States — Vermont, Mas- sachusetts, Kentucky and Tennessee — cast their electoral votes against him Gen. Franklin Pieice was therefore inaugurated President of the United States on the 4th of March, 1853. His administration proved one of the most stormy our country had ever experienced. The controversy ije tween slavery and freedom was then approaching its culminating point Ii became evident that there was an " irrepressible conflict" between them, and that this Nation could not long exist " half slave and half free." President Pierce, during the whole of his ad- ministration, did every thing he could to conciliate the South ; but it was all in vain. The conflict every year grew more violent, and threats of the dissolution of the Union were borne to the North on every South- ern breeze. Such was the condition of affairs when President Pierce approached the close of his four-years' term of office. The North had become thoroughly edien- ated from him. The anti-slavery sentiment, goaded by great outrages, had been rapidly increasing; ;ill the intellectual ability and social worth of President Pierce were forgotten in deep repreliension of his ad- ministrative acts. The slaveholders of the Soutli, also, unmindful of the fidelity with whicli he had advo- cated those measures of Government winch they ap- proved, and perhaps, ' also, feeling that he had rendered himself so unpopular as no longer to be able accejJtably to serve them, ungratefully drop[)ed him, and nominated James Buchanan to succeed liim. On the 4th of March, 1857, President Pierce re- tired to his home in Concord. Of three children, two had died, and his only surviving child had been killed before his eyes by a railroad accident , and b.is wife, one of the most estimable ajid accomplished of ladies, was rapidly sinking in consumption. The hour of dreadful gloom soon came, and he was left alone in the world, without wife or child. When the terrible Reljellion burst forth, which di- vided our country into two parties, and two only, Mr. Pierce remained steadfast in the principles which he had always cherished, and gave his sympathies to that pro-slavery party with which he had ever been allied. He declined to do anything, either by voite or pen, to strengthen the hand of the National Gov- ernment. He continued to reside in Concord until the time of his death, which occurred in Oclol er, 1869. He was one of the most genial and social ol men, an honored communicant of tlie Episcopal Church, and one of the kindest of neighbors. Gen erous to a fault, he conttibuted liberally for the al- leviation of suffering and want, and many of his lowrs people were often gladened by his material bounty. I Zlyy7z.^J a-^ur- /i^ly?7.€^^^'?/y I»» I .^r^^i^-3J>^:g^.^^^■t^l^Ss'l;^^as;^(!^ljS^rg3^^^li5^^l•^^'V'^^i^'g^^^'^ 'n>^^mi^^l;iVm^^mfmi^m^'^^^=^'^?^^mi^^^^^i^^^^^^^^ ^m «< « c •-< J»^- AMES BUCHANAN, the fif- jteenth President of the United States, was born in a small frontier town, at the foot of the .^^ eastern ridge of the Allegha- nies, in Franklin Co., Penn.,on the 23d of April, 179:. The place where the humble cabin of his lather st' od was called Stony « Batter. It was a wild and ro- mantic spot in a gorge of the moun- tains, with towering summits rising grandly all around. His father was a native of the north of Ireland ; a poor man, who had emigrated in 1783, with little property save his own strong arms. Five years afterwards he married Elizabeth Spear, the daughter of a respectable farmer, and, with his young bride, plun:ied into the wilder- ness, staked his claim, reared his log-hut, opened a clearing with his axe, and settled down there to per- form his obscure part in the drama of life. In this se- cluded home, where James was born, he remained for eight years, enjoying but few social or intellectual advantages. When James was eight years of age, his father removed to the village of iVIercersburg, where his son was placed at school, and commenced a course of study in English, Latin and Greek. His progress was rapid and at the age of fourteen, he entered Dickmson College, at Carlisle. Here he de- veloped reniarkalMe talent, and took his stand among the fir>it scholars in the institution. His application 'to study was intense, and yet his native powers en- abled him to master the most abstruse subjects wi '- facility. In the year 1809, he graduated with the highest honors of his clas:.. He was then eighteen years of age; tall and graceful, vigorous in health, fond of athletic sport, an unerring shot, and enlivened with an exuberant flow of animal spirits. He immediately commenced the study of law in the city of Lancaster, and was admitted to the bar in 1812, when he was but twenty-one years of age. Very rapidly he rose in his profession, and at once took undisjjuted stand with the ablest lawyers of the State. When but twenty-six years of age, unaided by counsel, he suc- cessfully defended before the State Senate ore of the judges of the State, who was tried upon articles of impeachment. At the age of thirty it was generally admitted that he stood at the head of the bar; and there was no lawyer in the State who had a more lu- crative practice. In 1820, he reluctantly consented to run as a candidate for Congress. He was elected, and foi ten years he remained a member of the Lower House. During the vacations of Congress, he occasionally tried some imix)rtant case. In 1S31, he retired altogether from the toils of his profession, having ac- quired an ample fortune. Gen. Jackson, upon his elevation to the Presidency, appointed Mr. Buchanan minister to Russia. The duties of his mission he performed with ability, which gave satisfaction to all parties. Upon his return, in r 833, he was elected to a seat in the United States Senate. He there met, as his associates, Webster. Clay, \Vright and Calhoun. He advocated tl-ie meas- ures proposed by President Jackson, of ra itiiig repn- 76 JAMES BUCHANAN. sals against France, to enforce the payment of our claims against that country ; and defended the course of the President in his unprecedented and wholesale removal from office of those who were not the sup- porters of his administration. Upon this question he Was brought into direct collision with Henry Clay. He also, with voice and vote, advocated expunging from tire journal of the Senate the vote of censure against Gen. Jackson for removing the deposits. Earnestly he opposed the abolition of slavery in the District of Columbia, and urged the prohibition of the circulation of anti-slavery documents by the United States mails. As to petitions on the subject of slavery, he advo- cated that they should be respectfully received; and that the reply should be returned, that Congress had no power to legislate upon the subject. " Congress," said he, " might as well undertake to interfere with slavery under a foreign government as in any of the States where it now exists." Upon Mr. Polk's accession to the Presidency, Mr. Buchanan became Secretary of State, and as such, took his share of the responsibility in the conduct of the Mexican War. Mr. Polk assumed that crossing the Nueces by the American troops into the disputed territory was not wrong, but for the Mexicans to cross the Rio Crande into that territory was a declaration of war. No candid man can read with pleasure the account of the course our Government pursued in that movement Mr. Buchanan identified himself thoroughly with the party devoted to the pi'rpetuation and extension of slavery, and brought all the energies of his mind to bear against the Wilmot Proviso. He gave his cordial approval to the compromise measures of 1050, which included the fugitive-slave law. Mr. Pierce, upon his election to the Presidency, honored Mr. Buchanan with tlie mission to England. In the year 1856, a national Democratic conven- tion nominated Mr. Buchanan for the Presidency. The political conflict was one of the most severe in which our country has ever engaged. All the friends of slavery were on one side ; all the advocates of its re- striction and final abolition, on the other. Mr. Fre- mont, the candidate of the enemies of slavery, re- •eived 114 electoral votes. Mr. Buchanan received 174, and was elected. The popular vote stood t, 340, 618, for Fremont, 1,224,750 for Buchanan. On March 4th, 1857, Mr. Buchanan was inaugurated. Mr. Buchanan was far advanced in life. Only four vears were wanting to fill up his threescore years and ten. His own friends, those with whom he had been allied in political principles and action for years, were seeking the destruction of the Government, that they might rear upon the ruins of our free institutions a nation whose corner-stone should be human slavery. In this emergency, Mr. Buchanan was hopelessly be- wildered He could not, with his long-avowed prin- ciples, consistently oppose the State-rights party in their assumptions. As President of the United States, bound by his oath faithfully to administer the laws he could not, without perjury of the grossest kind, unite with those endeavoring to overthrow the repub- lic. He therefore did nothing. The opponents of Mr. Buchanan's administration nominalcd Abraham Lincoln as their standard bearer in the next Presidential canvass. The pro-slavery party declared, that if he were elected, and ihe con- trol of the Government were thus taken from their hands, they would secede from the Union, taking with them, as they retired, the National Capitol at Washington, and the lion's share of the territory of the United States. Mr. Buchanan's sympathy with the pro-slavery party was such, that he had been willing to ofTerthem far more than they had ventured to claim. All the South had professed to ask of the North was non- intervention upon the subject of slavery. Mr. Bu- chanan had been ready to offer them the active co- operation of the Government to defend and extend the institution. As the storm increased in violence, the slaveholders claiming the right to secede, and Mr. Buchanan avow- ing that Congress had no power to prevent it, one of the most pitiable exhibitions of governmental im- becility was exhibited the world has ever seen. He declared that Congress had no power to enforce its laws in any .State which had withdrawn, or which was attempting to withdraw from the Union. This was not the doctrine of Andrew Jackson, when, with his hand upon his sword hilt, he exclaimed, " The Union must and shall be preserved!" South Carolina seceded in December, i860; nearly three months before the inauguration of President Lincoln. Mr. Buchanan looked on in listless despair. The rebel flag was raised in Charleston : Fort Sumpter was besieged ; our forts, navy-yards and arsenals were seized; our depots of military stoies were plun- dered ; and our custom-houses and post-offices were appropriated by the rebels. The energy of the rebels, and the imbecility of our Executive, were alike marvelous. The Nation looked on in agony, waiting for the slow weeks to glide away, and close the administration, so terrilile in its weak- ness At length the long-looked-for hour of deliver- ance came, when Abraham Lincoln was to receive the scepter. The administration of President Buchanan was certainly the most calamitous our country has ex- perienced. His best friends cannot recall it with ])leasure. And still more deplorable it is for his fame, that in that dreadful conflict which rolled its billows of flame and blood over our whole land, no word came from his lips to indicate his wish that our country's banner should trium|ih over the flag of the rebellion He died at his Wheatland retreat, June i, 1868. I r high position. In February, 186 i, Mr. Lincoln started for Washington, stopping m all the large cities on his way making speeches. The whole journey was froughl with much danger. Many of the Southern States had already seceded, and several attempts at assassination were afterwards brought to light. A gang in Balti- more had arranged, upon his arrival to" get up a row," and in the confusion to make sure of his death with revolvers and hand-grenades. A detective unravelled the plot. A secret and special train was provided ta take him from Harrisburg, through Baltimore, at an unexpected hour of the night. The train started at half-past ten ; and to prevent ai.y possible communi- cation on the part ot the Secessionists with their Con- federate gang in Baltimore, as soon as the train hac started the telegraph-wires were cut. Mr. Lincoln reached Washington in safety and was inaugurated, although great anxiety was felt by all loyal people In the selection of his cabinet Mr. Lincoln gave to Mr. Seward the Department of State, and to other prominent opponents before the convention he gave important positions. During no other administration have the duties devolving upon the President been so manifold, and the responsibilities so great, as those which fell to the lot of President Lincoln. Knowirg this, and feeling his own weakness and inability to meet, and in his own strength to cope with, the difficulties, he learned early to seek Divine wisdom and guidance in determining his plans, and Divine comfort in all his trials, bo'h personal and national Contrary to his own estimate of himself, Mr. Lincoln was one of the most courageous of men. He went directly into the rebel capital just as the retreating foe was leaving, with no guard but a few sailors. From the time he had left Springfield, in 1861, however, plans had been made for his assassination, and he at last fell a victim tooneofthem. Ai^ril 14, 1865, he, with Gen. Grant, was urgently invited to attend Fords' Theater. It was announced that they would Le present. Gen. Grant, however, left the city. President Lincoln, feel- ing, witn his characteristic kindliness of heart, that it would be a disappointment if he should fail them, very reluctantly consented to go. While listening to the play an actor by the name of John Wilkes Booth entered the box where the President and family were seated, and fired a bullet into his brains. He died the next morning at seven o'clock. Never before, in the history of tlie world was a nation plunged into such deep grief by the death of its ruler. Strong men met in the streets and wept in speechless anguish. It is not too much to say that a nation was in tears. His was a life which will fitly become a model. His name as the savior of his country w-:!! live with that of Washington's, ils father; his c^v-ntry- men being unable to decide whii K is tl>e greater. \ >r^!>(_/2^?l-L^- 'y^^^^-:i-oi^f^ SEVENTEENTH PRESIDENT 8j} :S,U O K Sif W I NDREW JOHNSON, seven- teenth President of the United States. The early life of Andrew Johnson contains but the record of poverty, destitu- tion and friendlessness. He was born December 29, 180S, in Raleigh, N. C. His parents, belonging to the class of the "poor whites " of the South, were in such circumstances, that they could not c';nf:r ^.-er. the slight- est advantages of education upon their child. When Andrew was five years of age, his father accidentally lost his life while herorically endeavoring to save a friend from drowning, ^^nvil ten years of age, Andrew was a ragged boy abour the streets, supported by the labor of his mother, who obtained her living with her own hands. He then, having never attended a school one day, and being unable either to read or write, was ap- prenticed to a tailor in his native town. A gentleman was in the habit of going to the tailor's shop occasion- ally, and reading to the boys at work there. He often read from the speeches of distinguished British states- men. Andrew, who was endowed with a mind of more than ordinary native ability, became much interested in these speeches ; his ambition was roused, and he was inspired with a strong desire to learn to read. He accordingly applied himself to the alphabet, and with the assistance of some of his fellow-workmen, jearned his letters. He then called upon the gentle- man to borrow the book of si>eeches. The owner. pleased with his zeal, not only gave him the book, but assisted him in learning to combine the letters into words. Under such difficulties he pressed oi- ward laboriously, spending usually ten or twelve houi-s at work in the shop, and then robbing himself of rest and recreatior to devote such time as he could to reading. He went to Tennessee in 1826, and located z.t Greenville, where he married a young lady who pos sessed some education. Under her instructions he learned to write and cipher. He became prominent in the village debating society, and a favorite with the students of Greenville College. In 1828, he or- ganized a working man's party, which elected him alderman, and in 1830 elected him mayor, which position he held three years. He now began to take a lively interest in political affairs ; identifying himself with the working-classes, to which he belonged. In 1835, he was elected a member of the House of Representatives of Tennes- see. He was then just twenty-seven years of age. He became a very active member of the legislature gave his adhesion to the Democratic party, and in 1840 "stumped the State," advocating Martin Van Buren's claims to the Presidency, in opposition to thoSv of Gen. Harrison. In this campaign he acquired much readiness as a speaker, and extended and increased his reputation. In 1841, he was elected State Senator; in 1843, he was elected a member of Congress, and by successive elections, held that important post for ten years. In 1853, he was elected Governor of Tennessee, and was re-elected in 1855. In all these resixjnsible ]X)si- tions, he discharged his duties with distinguished abi'. ANDREW JOHNSON. ity, and proved himself the warm friend of the work- ing classes. In 1857, Mr. Johnson was elected United States Senator. Years before, in 1S45, he had warmly advocated the annexation of Texas, stating however, as his reason, that he thought this annexation would prob- ably prove " to be the gateway out of which the sable 50ns of Africa are to pass from bondage to freedom, (ind become merged in a population congenial to themselves." In 1850, he also supported the com- promise measures, the two essential features of which were, that the white people of the Territories should be permitted to decide for themselves whether they would enslave the colored people or not, and that the *'ree States of the North should return to the 3ouLh persons who attempted to escape from slavery. Mr. Johnson was never ashamed of his lowly origin: on the contrary, he often took pride in avowing that he owed his distinction to his own exertions. "Sir," said he on the floor of the Senate, " I do not forget that I am a mechanic ; neither do I forget that Adam was a tailor and sewed fig-leaves, and that our Sav- ior was the son of a carpenter." In the Charleston- Baltimore convention of i8bo, ne was the choice of the Tennessee Democrats for the "Presidency. In 1S61, when the purpose of the South- irn Democracy became apparent, he took a decided stand in favor of the Union, and held that " slavery must be held subordinate to the Union at whatever cost." He returned to Tennessee, and repeatedly imperiled his own life to protect the Unionists of Tennesee. Tennessee having seceded from the Union, President Lincoln, on March 4th, 1862, ap- pointed him Military Governor of the State, and he established the most stringent military rule. His numerous proclamations attracted wide attention. In 1864, he was elected Vice-President of the United States, and upon the death of Mr. Lincoln, April 15, 1865, became President. In a speech two days later he said, " The American people must be taught, if they do not already feel, that treason is a crime and must be rvinished ; that the Government will not always beat with its enemies ; that it is strong not only to protect, but to punish. * * The people must understand that it (treason) is the blackest of crimes, and will surely be punished." Yet his whole administration, the history of which is so well known, was in utter inconsistency with, and the most violent opposition to, the principles laid down in that speech In his loose policy of reconstruction and general amnesty, he was opposed by Congress; and he char acterized Congress as a new rebellion, and lawlessly defied it, in everything possible, to the utmost. In the beginning of 1868, on account of "high crimes and misdemeanors," the principal of which was the removal of Secretary Stanton, in violation of the Ten- ure of Office Act, articles of impeachment were pre- ferred against him, and the trial began March 23. It was very tedious, continuing for nearly three months. A test article of the impeachment was at length submitted to the court for its action. It was certain that as the court voted upon that article so would it vote upon all. Thirty-four voices pronounced the President guilty. As a two-thirds vote was neces- sary to his condemnation, he was pronounced ac- quitted, notwithstanding the great majority against him. The change of one vote from the not guilty side would have sustained the impeachment. The President, for the remainder of his term, was but little regarded. He continued, though impotent!--, his conflict with Congress. His own party did not think it expedient to renominate him for the Presi- dency. The Nation rallied, with enthusiasm unpar- alleled since the days of Washington, around the name of Gen. Grant. Andrew Johnson was forgotten. The bullet of the assassin introduced him to the President's chair. Notwithstanding this, never was there presented to a man a better opportunity to im- mortalize his name, and to win the gratitude of a nation. He failed utterly. He retired to his home in Greenville, Tenn., taking no very active part in politics until 1875. On Jan. 26, after an exciting struggle, he was chosen by the Legislature of Ten- nessee, United States Senator in the forty-fourth Con- gress, and took his seat in that body, at the special session convened by President Grant, on the 5th of March. On the 27th of July, 1875, the ex-President made a visit to his daughter's home, near Carter Station, Tenn. When he started on his journey, he was apparently in his usual vigorous health, but on reach- ing the residence of his child the following day, was stricken with paralysis, rendering him unconscious. He rallied occasionally, but finally passed away at 2 A.M., July 31, aged sixty-seven years. His fun- eral was attended at Geenville, on the 3d of August, with every demonstration of respect. i >^^ -^xi EIGHTEENTH PRESIDENT. «7 LYSSES S. GRANT, the eighteenth President of the ■United States, was born on the 29th of April, 1822, of _^^:j 5 Christian parents, in a humble -:'W home, at Point Pleasant, on the banks of the Ohio. Shortly after his father moved to George- town, Brown Co., O. In this re- mote frontier hamlet, Ulysses received a common-school edu- cation. At the age of seven- teen, in the year 1839, he entered the Military Academy at West Point. Here he was regarded as a iolid, sensible young man of fair abilities, and of sturdy, honest character. He took respectable rank as a scholar. In June, 1843, he graduated, about the middle in his class, and was sent as lieutenant of in- fantry to one of the distant military posts in the Mis- souri Territory. Two years he past in these dreary solitudes, watching the vagabond and exasperating Indians. The war with Mexico came. Lieut. Grant was sent with his regiment to Corpus Christi. His first battle was at Palo Alto. There was no chance here for the exhibition of either skill or heroism, nor at Resaca de la Palma, his second battle. At the battle of Monterey, his third engagement, it is said that ne performed a signal service of daring and skillful horsemanship. His brigade had exhausted its am- munition. A messenger must be sent for more, along a route exposed to the bullets of the foe. Lieut. Grant, adopting an expedient learned of the Indians, grasped the mane of his horse, and hanging upon one side of the anin^-il, ran the gauntlet in entire safety. ®)®®V3Xs)^^ From Monterey he was sent, with the fourth infantry, to aid Gen. Scott, at the siege of Vera Cruz. In preparation for the march to the city of Mexico, he was appointed quartermaster of his regiment. At the battle of Molino del Rey, he was promoted to a first lieutenancy, and was brevetted captain at Cha- pultepec. At the close of the Mexican War, Capt. Grant re- turned with his regiment to New York, and was again sent to one of the military posts on the frontier. The discovery of gold in California causing an immense tide of emigration to flow to the Pacific shores, Capt. Grant was sent with a battalion to Fort Dallas, in Oregon, for the protecrion of the interests of the im- migrants. Life was wearisome in those wilds. Capt. Grant resigned his commission and returned to the States; and having married, entered upon the cultiva- tion of a small farm near St. Louis, Mo. He had but little skill as a farmer. Finding his toil not re- munerative, he turned to mercantile life, entering into the leather business, with a younger brother, at Ga- lena, 111. This was in the year i860. As the tidings of the rebels firing on Fort Sumpter reached the ears of Capt. Grant in his counting-room, he said, — "Uncle Sam has educated me for the army: though I have served him through one war, I do not feel that I have yet repaid the debt. I am still ready to discharge my obligations. I shall therefore buckle on my eword and see Uncle Sam through this war too." He went into the streets, raised a company of vol- unteers, and led them as their captain to Springfield, the capital of the State, where their services were offered to Gov. Yates. The Governor, impressed by the zeal and straightforward executive ability of Capt. Grant, gave him a desk in his office, to assist in the volunteer organization that was being formed in the State in behalf of the Government. On the 15 th of 83 UL YSSES S. GRA NT. June, 1 86 1, Capt. Grant received a commission as Colonel of the Twenty-first Regiment of Illinois Vol- unteers. His merits as a West Point graduate, who had served for 15 years in the regular army, were such that he was soon promoted to the rank of Brigadier- General and was placed in command at Cairo. The rebels raised their banner at Paducah, near the moutli of the Tennessee River. Scarcely had its folds ap- peared in the breeze ere Gen. Grant was there. The rebels fled. Their banner fell, and the star and stripes were unfurled in its stead. He entered the service with great determination and immediately began active duty. This was the be- ginning, and until the surrender of Lee at Richmond he was ever pushing the enemy with great vigor and effectiveness. At Belmont, a few days later, he sur- prised and routed the rebels, then at Fort Henry won another victory. Then came the brilliant fight at Fort Donelson. The nation was electrified by the victory, and the brave leader of the boys in blue was immediately made a Major-General, and the military iistrict of Tennessee was assigned to him. Like all great captains, Gen. Grant knew well how to secure the results of victory. He immediately Dushed on to the enemies' lines. Then came the terrible battles of Pittsburg Landing, Corinth, and the siege of Vicksburg, where Gen. Pemberton made an unconditional surrender of the city with over thirty thousand men and one-hundred and seventy-two can- non. The fall of Vicksburg was by far the most severe blow which the rebels had thus far encountered, and opened up the Mississippi from Cairo to the Gulf. Gen. Grant was next ordered to co-operate with Gen. Banks in a movement upon Texas, and pro- ceeded to New Orleans, where he was thrown from his horse, and received severe injuries, from which he was laid up for months. He then rushed to the aid of Gens. Rosecrans and Thomas at Chattanooga, and by a wonderful series of strategic and technical meas- ures put the Union Army infighting condition. Then followed the bloody battles at Chattanooga, Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge, in which the rebels were routed with great loss. This won for him un- bounded praise in the North. On the 4th of Febru- ary, 1864, Congress revived the grade of lieutenant- general, and the rank was conferred on Gen. Grant. He repaired to Washington to receive his credentials and enter upon '.hp duties of his new ofl^ce Gen. Grant decided as soon as he took charge of • the army to concentrate the widely-dispersed National troops for an attack upon Richmond, the nominal capital of the Rebellion, and endeavor there to de- stroy the rebel armies which would be promptly as- sembled from all quarters for its defence. The whole continent seemed to tremble under the tramp of these majestic armies, rushing to the decisive battle field. Steamers were crowded with troops. Railway trains were burdened with closely packed thousands. His plans were comprehensive and involved a series of campaigns, which were executed with remarkable en- ergy and ability, and were consummated at the sur- render of Lee, April 9, 1865. The war was ended. The Union was saved. The almost unanimous voice of the Nation declared Gen. Grant to be the most prominent instrument in its sal- vation. The eminent services he had thus rendered the country brought him conspicuously forward as the Republican candidate for the Presidential chair. At the Republican Convention held at Chicago, May 21, 1868, he was unanimously nominated for the Presidency, and at the autumn election received a majority of the popular vote, and 214 out of 294 electoral votes. The National Convention of the Republican party which met at Philadelphia on the 5th of June, 1872, placed Gen. Grant in nomination for a second term by a unanimous vote. The selection was emphati- cally indorsed by the people five months later, 292 electoral votes being cast for him. Soon after the close of his second term. Gen. Grant started upon his famous trip around the world. He visited almost every country of the civilized worid, and was everywhere received with such ovations and demonstrations of respect and honor, private as well as public and ofiicial, as were never before bestowed upon any citizen of the United States. He was the most prominent candidate before the Republican National Convention in 1880 for a re- nomination for President. He went to New York and embarked in the brokerage business under the firm nameof Grant & Ward. The latter proved a villain, wrecked Grant's fortune, and for larceny was sent to the penitentiary. The General was attacked with cancer in the throat, but suffered in his stoic-like manner, never complaining. He was re-instated as General of the Army and retired by Congress. The cancer soon finished its deadly work, and July 23, 1885, the nation wenf in mourning over the death of the illustrious General. S: ^^-^ O' V Uf NINETEENTH PRESIDENT. 91 UTHERFORD B. HAYES, the nineteentli President of the United States, was born in Delaware, O., Oct. 4, 1822, al- most three months after the death of his father, Rutherford Hayes. His ancestry on both the paternal and maternal sides, was of the most honorable char- acter. It can be traced, it is said, as far back as 1280, when Hayes and Rutherford were two Scottish chief- tains, fighting side by side with Baliol, William Wallace and Robert Bruce. Both families belonged to the nobility, owned extensive estates, ' and had a large following. Misfor- tane ovtrtaking the family, George Hayes left Scot- land in i6iSo, and settled in Windsor, Conn. His son George wai, born in Windsor, and remained there during his life. Daniel Hayes, son of the latter, mar- ried Sarah Lee, and lived from the time of his mar- riage until his death in Simsbury, Conn. Ezekiel, son of Daniel, was born in 1724, and was a manufac- turer of scythes at Bradford, Conn. Rutherford Hayes, son of Ezekiel aud grandfather of President Hayes, was born in New Haven, in August, t756. He was a fanner, blacksmith and tavern-keepyer. He emigrated to Vermont at an unknown date, settling in BraMleboro, where he established a hotel. Here his son Ruth- erford Hayes the father of President Hayes, was born. He was married, in September, 18 13, to Sophia Birchard, of Wilmington, Vt., whose ancestors emi- grated thither from Connecticut, they having been among the wealthiest and best famlies of Norwich. Her ancestry on the male side are traced back to 1635, to John Birchard, one of the principal founders of Norwich. Both of her grandfathers were soldiers in the Revolutionary War. The father of President Hayes was an industrious frugal and opened-hearted man. He was of a me- chanical turn, and could mend a plow, knit a stock- ing, or do almost anything else that he choose to undertake. He was a member of the Church, active in all the benevolent enterprises of the town, and con- ducted his business on Christian principles. After the close of the war of 181 2, for reasons inexplicable to his neighbors, he resolved to emigrate to Ohio. The journey from Vermont to Ohio in that day when there were no canals, steamers, not railways, was a very serious affair. A tour of inspection was first made, occupying four months. Mr. Hayes deter mined to move to Delaware, where the family arrived in 1817. He died July 22, 1822, a victim of malarial fever, less than three months before the birth of the son, of whom we now write. Mrs. Hayes, in her sore be- reavement, found the support she so much needed in her brother Sardis, who had been a member of the household from the day of its departure from Ver- mont, and in an orphan girl whom she had adopted some time before as an act of charity. Mrs. Hayes at this period was very weak, and the 92 RUTHERFORD B. HA YES. subject of this sketch was so feeble at birth that he was not expected to live beyond a month or two at most. As the months went by he grew weaker and weaker, so that the neighbors were in the habit of in- quiring from time to time " if Mrs. Hayes' baby died last night." On one occasion a neighbor, who was on familiar terms with the family, after alludnig to the boy's big head, and the mother's assiduous care of him, said in a bantering way, " That's right! Stick to him. You have got him along so far, and I shouldn't wonder if he would really come to something yet." " You r.eed not laugh," said Mrs. Hayes. " You ivait and see. You cau't tell but I shall make him President of the United States yet." The boy lived, in spite of the universal predictions of his speedy death; and when, in 1825, his older brother was drowned, he became, if possible, still dearer to his mother. The boy was seven years old before he w<;nt to school. His education, however, was not neglected. He probably learned as much from his mother and .'ister as he would have done at school. His sports were almost wholly within doors, his playmates being his sister and her associates. These circumstances tended, no doubt, to foster that gentleness of dispo- sition, and that delicate consideration for the feelings of others, which are marked traits of his character. His uncle Sardis Birchard took the deepest interest in his education ; and as the boy's health had im- proved, and he was making good progress in his studies, he proposed to send him to college. His pre- paration commenced with a tutor at home; bit he was afterwards sent for one year to a professor in the VVesleyan University, in Middletown, Conn. He en- tered Kenyon College in 1838, at the age of sixteen, and was graduated at the head of his class in 1842. Immediately after his graduation he began the study of law in the office of Thouias Sparrow, Esq., in Columbus. Finding his opportunities for study in Columbus somewhat limited, he determined to enter the Law School at Cambridge, Mass., where he re- mained two years. In 1845, after graduatmg at the Law School, he was admitted to the bar at Marietta, Ohio, and shortly afterward went into practice as an attorney-at-law with Ralph P. Buckland, of Fremont. Here he re- mained three years, acquiring but a limited practice, and apparently unambitious of distinction in his pro- fession. \n 1849 he moved to Cincinnati, where his ambi- tion found a new stimulus. For several years, how- ever, his progress was slow. Two events, occurring at this period, had a powerful influence u|)on his subse- quent 'ife. One of these was his marrage with Miss Lucy Ware Webb, daughter of Dr. James Webb, of Chilicothe; the other was his introduction to the Cin- cinnati Literary Club, a body embracing among its members such men as'^hief Justice Salmon P. Chase, Gen. John Pope, Gov. Edward F. Noyes, and many others hardly less distinguished in after life. The marriage was a fortunate one in every respect, as everybody knows. Not one of all the wives of our Presidents was more universally admired, reverenced and beloved than was Mrs. Hayes, and no one did more than she toreflect honor upon American woman hood. The Literary Cluu brought Mr. Hayes into constant association with young men of high char- acter and noble aims, and lured him to display the qualities so long hidden by his bashfulne.s and modesty. In 1856 he was nominated to the office of Judgj of the Court of Common Pleas; but he declined to ac. cept the nomination. Two years later, the office ol city solicitor becoming vacant, the City Council elected him for the unexpired term. In 1861, when the Rebellion broke out, he was at the zenith of his professional lif ,. His rank at the bar was among the the first. But the news of the attack on Fort Sumpter found him eager to take -in arms for the defense of his country. His military record was bright and illustrious. In October, 186 1, he was made Lieutenant-Colonel, and in August, 1862, promoted Colonel of the 79th Ohio regiment, but he refused to leave his old comrades and go among strangers. Subsequently, however, he was made Colonel of his old regiment. At the liattle of South Mountain he received a wound, and while faint and bleeding displayed courage and fortitude that won admiration from all. Col. Hayes was detached from his regiment, after his recovery, to act as Brigadier-General, and placed in command of the celebrated Kanawha division, and for gallant and meritorious services in the battles of Winchester, Fisher's Hill and Cedar Creek, he was promoted Brigadier-General. He was also brevetted Major-General, "forgallant and distinguished services during the campaigns of 1864, in West Virginia." In the course of his arduous services, four horses were shot from under him, and he was wounded four times In 1S64, Gen. Hayes was elected to Congress, from the Second Ohio District, which had long been Dem- ocratic. He was not present during the campaign, and after his election was importuned to resign his commission in the army ; but he finally declared, " I shall never come to Washington until I can come by the way of Richmond." Pie was re-elected in 1866. In 1867, Gen Hayes was elected Governor of Oliio, over Hon. Allen G. Thurman, a populai Democrat. In r869 was re-elected over George H. Pendleton. He was elected Governor for the third term in 1875. In 1876 he was the standard beaierof the Repub- lican Party in the Presidential contest, and after a hard long contest was chosen President, and was in augurated Monday, March 5, 1875. He served his full term, not, hcwever, with satisfaction to his party, but his administration was an average or\? TWENTIETH PRESIDENT. 95 %' 'III/' AMES A. GARi'IELD, twen- tieth President of the United States, was born Nov. ig, 1 83 1, in the woods of Orange, Cuyahoga Co., O His par- ents were Abram and EUza (Ballon) Garfield, both of New England ancestry and from fami- lies well known in the early his- tory of that section of our coun- try, but had moved to the Western Reserve, in Ohio, early in its settle- ment. The house in which James A. was born was not unlike the houses of poor Ohio farmers of that day. It , tic about 20x30 feet, built of logs, with the spaces be- .\/2en the logs filled with clay. His father was a aard working farmer, and he soon had his fields cleared, an orchard planted, and a log barn built, f he household comprised the father and mother and /.heir four children — Mehetabel, 'I'iiomas, Mary and Tames. In May, i823j the father, from a cold con- .racted in helping to put out a forest fire, died. At diis time James was about eighteen montlis old, and Thomas about ten years old. No one, perhaps, can fell how much James was indebted to his biother's toil and self sacrifice during the twenty years suc- ceeding his father's death, but undoubtedly very much. He now lives in Michigan, and the two sis- ters live in .Solon, O., near their birthplace. The early educational advantages young Garfield enjoyed were very limited, yet he made the most of them. He labored at farm work for others, did car- penter work, chopped wood, or did anything that would bring in a few dollars to aid his widowed mother in he' struggles to keep the little family to- gether. Nor was Gen. Garfield ever ashamed of his origin, and he never forgot the friends of his strug- gling childhood, youth and manhood, neither did they ever forget him. When in the highest seats of honor, the humblest f)iend of his boyhood was as kindly greeted as ever. The poorest laborer was sure of the sympathy of one who had known all the bitterness of want and the sweetness of bread earned by the sweat of the brow. He was ever the simple, plain, modest gentleman. The highest ambition of young Garfield until hi was about si.xteen years old was to be a captain of a vessel on Lake Erie. He was anxious to go aboard a vessel, which his mother strongly opposed. She finally consented to his going to Cleveland, with the understanding, however, that he sliould try to obtain some other kind of employment. He walked all the way to Cleveland. This was his first visit to the city After making many applications for work, and trying to get aboard a lake vessel, and not meeting with success, he engaged as a driver for his cousin, Amos Letcher, on the Ohio & Pennsylvania Canal. He re- mained at this work but a short time when he went iiome, and attended the seminary at Chester for about three years, when he entered Hiram and the Eclectic Institute, teaching a few terms of schoolin the meantime, and doing other work. This school was started by the Disciples of Christ in 1850, of which church he was then a member. He became janitor and bell-ringer in order to help pay his way He then became both teacher and pupil. He soon " exhausted Hiram " and needed more ; hence, in the fall of 1854, he entered Williams College, from which he graduated in 1856, taking one of the liighest hc*,,- ors of his class. He afterwards returned to Hiram College as its President. As above slated, he early united with the Christian or Diciples Church at Hiram, and was ever after a devoted, zealous mem- ber, often preaching in its pulpit and places where he happened to be. Dr. Noah Porter, President of Yale College, says of him in reference to his religion : 9« JAMES A. GARFIELD. " President Garfield was more than a man of strong moral and religious convictions. His whole history, from boyhood to the last, shows that duty to man and to God, and devotion to Christ and life and faith and spiritual commission were controlling springs of his being, and to a more than usual degree. In my judgment there is no more interesting feature of his character than his loyal allegiance to the body of Christians in which he was trained, and the fervent sympathy which he ever showed in their Christian communion. Not many of the few 'wise and mighty and noble who are called' show a similar loyalty to the less stately and cultured Christian communions in which they have been reared. Too often it is true that as they step upward in social and political sig- nificance they step upward from one degree to another in some of the many types of fashionable Christianity. President Garfield adhered to the church of his mother, the church in which he was trained, and in which he served as a pillar and an evangelist, and yet with the largest and most unsec- t,arian charity for all 'who love our Lord in sincerity.'" Mr. Garfield was united in marriage witli Miss Lucretia Rudolph, Nov. ii, 1858, who proved herself worthy as the wife of one whom all the world loved and mourned. To them were born seven children, five of whom are still living, four boys and one girl. Mr. Garfield made his first political speeches in 1856, jn Hiram and the neighboring villages, and three years later he began to speak at county mass-meet- ings, and became the favorite speaker wherever he was. During this year he was elected to the Ohio Senate. He also began to study law at Cleveland, and in 1861 was admitted to the bar. The great Rebellion broke out in the early part of this year, and Mr. Garfield at once resolved to fight as he had talked, and enlisted to defend the old flag. He re- ceived his commission as Lieut.-Colonel of the Forty- second Regiment of Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Aug. 14, 1861. He was immediately put into active ser- vice, and before he had ever seen a gun fired inaction, was placed in command of four regiments of infantry and eight companies of cavalry, charged with the work of driving out of his native State the officer 'Humphrey Marshall) reputed to be the ablest of those, not educated to war whom Kentucky had given to the Rebellion. This work was bravely and speed- ily accomplished, although against great odds. Pres- ident Lincoln, on his success commissioned him Brigadier-General, Jan. ro, 1862; and as "he had been the youngest man in the Ohio Senate two years before, so now he was the youngest General in the army." He was with Gen. Baell's army at Shiloh, in its operations around Corinth and its march through Alabama. He was then detailed as a member of the General Court-Martial for the trial of Gen. Fitz-John Porter. He was then ordered to report to Gen. Rose- crans, and was assigned to the "Chief of Staff." The military tJstory of Gen. Garfield closed with his brilliant services at Chickamauga, where he woe the stars of the Major-General. Without an effort on his part Ge? Garfield wa» elected to Congress in the fall of 1862 from the Nineteenth District of Ohio. This section of Ohio had been represented in Congress for si.xty year* mainly by two men — Elisha Whittlesey and JoshuK R. Giddings. It was not without a struggle that he resigned his place in the army. At the time he en- tered Congress he was the youngest member in that body. There he remained by successive re- elections until he was elected President in 1880. Of his labors in Congress Senator Hoar says : " Since the year 1864 you cannot think of a question whicii has been debated in Congress, or discussed before & tribunel of the American people, in regard to whicL you will not find, if you wish mstruction, the argu- ment on one side stated, in almost every instance better than by anybody else, in some speech made in the House of Representatives or on the hustings by Mr. Garfield." Uix>n Jan. 14, 1880, Gen. Garfield was elected to the U. S. Senate, and on the eighth of June, of the same year, was nominated as the candidate of his party for President at the great Chicago Convention. He was elected in the following November, and on March 4, 1881, was inaugurated. Probably no ad- ministration ever opened its existence under brighter auspices than that of President Garfield, and every day it grew in favor with the people, and by the first of July he had completed all the initiatory and pre- liminary work of his administration and was prepar- ing to leave the city to meet his friends at Williams College. While on his way and at the dejxjt, in com- pany with Secretary Blaine, a man stepped behind him, drew a revolver, and fired directly at his back. The President tottered and fell, and as he did so the assassin fired a second shot, the bullet cutting the left coat sleeve of his victim, but in.licting no further injury. It has been very truthfully said that this was " the shot that was heard round the world " Never before in the history of the Narion had anything oc- curred which so nearly froze the blood of the people for the moment, as this awful deed. He was smit- ten on the brightest, gladdest day of all his life, and was at the summit of his power and hope. For eighty days, all during the hot months of July and August, he lingered and suffered. He, however, remained master of himself till the last, and by his magnificent bearing was teaching the country and the world the noblest of human lessons — how to live grandly in the very clutch of death. Great in life, he was surpass- ingly great in death. He passed serenely away Sept. rg, 1883, at Elberon, N. J., on the very bank of the ocean, where he had been taken shortly previous. The worid wept at his death, as it never had done on the death of any other man who had ever lived upon it. The murderer was duly tried, found guilty and exe- cuted, in one year after he committed the foul deed. TWENTY-FIRST PRESIDENT. 99 I HESTER A. ARTHUR, twenty-first Presi'^.^ni of the United States, was born in Franklin Cour ty, Vermont, on thefifthofOc'ober, 1830, and is the oldest of a family , of two sons and five daughters. His father was the Rev. Dr. William Arthur, aBaptisld'-fgyman,who emigrated to tb'.s country from the county Antnm, Ireland, in 'M his 1 8th year, and died in 1875, '" Newtonville, neai Albany, after a long and successful ministry. Young Arthur was educated at Union College, S( henectady, where he excelled in all his studies. Af- ter his graduation he taught school in Vermont for two years, and at the expiration of that time came to New York, with $500 in his pocket, and ewtered the office of ex- Judge E. D. Culver as student. After being admitted to the bar he formed a partnership with his intimate friend and room-mate, Henry D. Gardiner, with the intention of practicing in the West, and for three months they roamed about in the Western States in search of an eligible site, but in the end returned to New York, where they hung out their shingle, and entered upon a success^ ful career almost from the start. General Arthur soon afterward raaxped the daughter of Lieutenant Herndon, of the United States Navy, who was lost at sea. Congress voted a gold medal to his widow in recognition of the bravery he displayed on that occa- sion. Mrs. Arthur died shortly before Mr. Arthur's nommation to the Vice Presidency, leaving two children. Gen. Arthur obtained considerable legal celebrity in his first great case, the famous Lemmon suit, brought to recover possession of eight slaves who had been declared free by Judge Paine, of the Superior Court of New York City. It was in 1852 that Jon- athan Lemmon, of Virginia, went to New York with his slaves, intending to ship them to Texas, when they were discovered and freed. The Judge decided that they could not be held by the owner under the Fugitive Slave Law. A howl of rage went up from the South, and the Virginia Legislature authorized the Attorney General of that State to assist in an appeal, Wm. M. Evarts and Chester A. Arthur were employed to represent the People, and they won their case, which then went to the Supreme Court of the United States. Charles O'Conor here esjxjused the cause of the slave-holders, but he too was beaten by Messrs Evarts and Arthur, and a long step was taken toward the emancipation of the black race. Another great service was rendered by Genera! Arthur in the same cause in 1856. Lizzie Jennings, a respectable colored woman, was put off a Fourth Avenue car with violence after she had paid her fare. General Arthur sued on her behalf, and secured a verdict of $500 damages. The next day the compa- ny issued an order to admit colored persons to ride on their cars, and the other car companies quickly CHESTER A. ARTHUR. followed their example. Before that the Sixth Ave- nue Company ran a few special cars for colored per- sons and the other lines refused to let them ride at all. General Arthur was a delegate to the Convention at Saratoga that founded the Republican party. Previous to the war he was Judge-Advocate of the Second Brigade of the State of New York, and Gov- ernor Morgan, of that State, appointed him Engineer- in-Chief of his staff. In 1861, he was made Inspec- tor General, and soon afterward became Quartermas- ter-General. In each of these offices he rendered great service to the Government during the war. At the end of Governor Morgan's term he resumed the practice of the law, forming a partnership with Mr. Ransom, and then Mr. Phelps, the District Attorney of New York, was added to the firm. The legal prac- tice of this well-known firm was very large and lucra- tive, each of the gentlemen composing it were able lawyers, and possessed a splendid local reputation, if not indeed one of national extent. He always took a leading part in State and city politics. He was apix)inted Collector of the Port of New York by President Grant, Nov. 21 -1872, to suc- ceed Thomas Murphy, and held the office until July, 20, 1 87 8, when he was succeeded by Collector Merritt. Mr. -Arthur was nominated on the Presidential ticket, with Gen. James A. Garfield, at the famous National Republican Convention held at Chicago in June, 1880. This was perhaps the greatest political convention that ever assembled on the continent. It was composed of the 'sading politicians of the Re- publican party, all able men, and each stood firm and fought vigorously and with signal tenacity for their respective candidates that were before the conven- tion for the nomination. Finally Gen. Garfield re- ceived the nomination for President and Gen. Arthur for Vice-President. The campaign which followed was one of the most animated known in the history of our country. Gen. Hancock, the standard-bearer of the Democratic party, was a popular man, and his party made a valiant fight for his election. Finally the election came and the country's choice .vas Garfield and Arthur. They were inaugurated March 4, 1881, as President and Vice-President. k few months only had passed ere the newly chosen President was the victim of the assassin's bullet. Then came terrible weeks of suffering, — those moments of anxious suspense, wher the hearts of all civilized na- tions were throbbing in unison, longing for the re covery of the noble, the good President. The remark- able patience that he manifested during those hours and weeks, and even months, of the most terrible suf- fering man has often been called upon to endure, was seemingly more than human. It was certainly God- like. During all this period of deepest anxiety Mr. Arthur's every move was watched, and be it said to his credit that his every action displayed only an earnest desire that the suffering Garfield might recover, to serve the remainder of the term he had so auspi- ciously begun. Not a selfish feeling was manifested in deed or look of this man, even though the most honored ]X)sition in the world tvas at any moment likely to fall to him. At last God in his mercy relieved President Gar- field from further suffering, and the world, as never before in its history over the death of any other man, wept at his bier. Then it became the duty of the Vice President to assume the responsibilitiis of the high office, and he took the oath in New \'ork. Sept. 20, 1881. The position was an embarr.issing one to him, made doubly so from the facts that all eyes were on him, anxious to know what he would do, what policy he would pursue, and who he would se- lect as advisers. The duties of the office had been greatly neglected during the President's long illness, and many important measures were to be immediately decided by him ; and still farther to embarrass him he did not fail to realize under what circumstances he became President, and knew the feelings of many on this point. Under these trying circumstances Presidept Arthur took the reins of the Government in }-is i'\. hands; and, as embarrassing as were the condition ■■^' affairs, he happily surprised the nation, acting so wisely that but few criticised liis administration. He served the nation well and faithfully, until tlie close of his administration, March 4, 1885, and was a popular candidate before his party for a second term. His name was ably presented before the con- vention at Chicago, and was received with great favor, and doubtless but for the personal popularity of one of the opposing candidates, he would have been selected as the standard-bearer of his party for another campaign. He retired to private life car- rying with him the best wishes of the American peo- ple, whom he had served in a manner satisfactory to them and with credit to himself. y^i^rL^y;^^^ OyLyxJ'Ji TWENTY-SECOND PRESIDENT. 103 mir/>s.^m^ !«s;s-'«'i;:;j'i^;;;^"-»;\:>'^-^:;T'i'^;;:5-A$;;g<^;;S-#-S;C$**;:S^^ 'vTv- •£* ^A^ 000 TEPHEN GROVER CLEVE- LAND, the twenty- second Pres- ident of the United States, was born in 1837, in the obscure town of Caldwell, Essex Co., N. J., and in a little two-and-a- half-story white house which is still standing, characteristically to mark the humble birth-place of one of America's great men in striking con- trast with the Old World, where all men high in office must be high in origin and born in the cradle of wealth. When the subject of this sketch was three years of age, his father, who was a Presbyterian min- ister, with a large family and a small salary, moved, by way of the Hudson River and Erie Canal, to Fayetteville, in search of an increased income and a larger field of work. Fayetteville was then the most straggling of country villages, about five miles from Pompey Hill, where Governor Seymour was born. At the last mentioned place young Grover com- menced going to school in the "good, old-fashioned way," and presumably distinguished himself after the manner of all village boys, in doing the things he ought not to do. Such is the distinguishing trait of all geniuses and independent thinkers. When he arrived at the age of 14 years, he had outgrown the capacity of the village school and expressed a most emphatic desire to be sent to an academy. To this his father decidedly objected. Academies in those days cost money; besides, his father wanted him to become self-supporting by the quickest possible means, and this at 'that time in Fayetteville seemed to be a position in a country store, where his father and the large family on his hands had considerable influence. Grover was to be paid $50 for his services the first year, and if he proved trustworthy he was to receive $100 the second year. Here the lad com- menced his career as salesman, and in two years he had earned so good a reputation for trustworthiness that his employers desired to retain him for an in- definite length of time. Otherwise he did not ex- hibit as yet any particular " flashes of genius " or eccentricities of talent. He was simply a good boy. But instead of remaining with this firm in Fayette~ ville, he went with the family in their removal to Clinton, where he had an opportunity of attending a high school. Here he industriously pursued his studies until the family removed with him to a point on Black River known as the " Holland Patent," a village of 500 or 600 people, 15 miles north of Utica, N. Y. At this place his father died, after preaching but three Sundays. This event broke up the family, and Grover set out for New York City to accept, at a small salary, the position of " under-teacher " in an asylum for the blind. He taught faithfully for two years, and although he obtained a good reputation in this capacity, he concluded that teaching was not his S. GROVE R CLEVELAND. calling for life, and, reversing the traditional order, he left the city to seek his fortune, instead of soing to a city. He lirst mougnc ot Cleveland, Uhio, as there was some charm in that name for him; but before proceeding to that place he went to Buffalo to jisk the advice of his uncle, Lewis F. Allan, a noted stock- breeder of that place. The latter did not speak enthusiastically. " What is it you want to do, my boy.''" he asked. "Well, sir, I want to study lav," was the reply, "Good gracious!" remarked ih« old gentleman ; " do you, indeed .'' What ever put that into your head? How much money have you got?" "Well, sir, to tell the truth, I haven't got » any. After a long consultation, his uncle offered him a place temporarily as assistant herd-keeper, at $50 a year, while he could "look around." One day soon afterward he boldly walked into the office of Rogers, Bowen & Rogers, of Buffalo, and told Ihem what he wanted. A number of young men were already en- gaged in the office, but Grover's persistency won, and he was finally permitted to come as an office boy and Have the use of the law library, for the nominal sum of $3 or $4 a week. Out of tliis he had to pay for his board and washing. The walk to and from his uncle's was a long and rugged one; and, although the first winter was a memorably severe one, his shoes were out of repair and his overcoat — he had none — yet he was nevertheless prompt and regular. On the first day of his service here, his senior em- ployer threw down a copy of Blackstone before him with a bang that made the dust fly, saying "That's where they all begin." A titter ran around the little circle of clerks and students, as they thought that was enough to scare young Grover out of his plans ; but in due time he mastered that cumbersome volume. Then, as ever afterward, however, Mr. Cleveland exhibited a talent for executiveness rather than for chasing principles through all their metaphysical possibilities. " Let us quit talking and go and do it," was practically his motto. The first public office to which Mr. Cleveland was eiected was tliat of Sheriff of Erie Co., N. Y., in which Buffalo is situated; and in such capacity it fell to his duty to inflict capital pi'-'.ishment upon two cainiinals. Li r88i he was elected Mayor of the City of Buffilo. on the Democratic ticket, with es- pecial reference to the bringing about certain reforms in the administration of the municipal affairs of that cit" In this office, as well as that of Sheriff, his periormance of duty has generally been considered fair, with possibly a few exceptions which were fer- reted out and magnified during the last Presidential campaign. As a specimen of his plain language in a veto message, we quote from one vetoing an iniqui^ tous street-cleaning contract: "This is a time foi plain speech, and my objection to your action shall be plainly stated. I regard it as the culmination of a mos bare-faced, impudent and shameless scheme to betray the interests of the peopls and to wors3 than squander the people's money." The New York Sun afterward very highly commended Mr. Cleve- land's administration as Mayor of Buffalo, and tliere- upon recommended him for Governor of the Empire State. To the latter office he was elected in 1882, and his administration of the affairs of State was generally satisfactory. The mistakes he made^ if any, were made very public throughout the nation after he was nominated for President of the United States. For this high office he was nominated July It, 1884, by the National Democratic Convention at Chicago, when other competitors were Thomas F. Bayard, Roswell P. Flower, Thomas A. Hendricks, Benjamin F. Butler, Allen G. Thurman, etc.: and he was elected by the people, by a majority of about a thousand, over the brilliant and long-tried Repub- lican statesman, James G. Blaine. President Cleve- land resigned his office as Governor of New York in January, 1885, in order to prepare for his duties as the Chief Executive of ihe United States, in which capacity his term commenced at noon on the 4th of March, 1885. For his Cabinet officers he selected the following gentlemen: For Secretary of State, Thomas F. Bayard, of Delaware ; Secretary of the Treasury, Daniel Manning, of New York ; Secretary of War, William C. Endicott, of Massachusetts ; Secretary of the Navy, WiUiam C. Whitney, of New York; Secretary of the Interior, L. Q. C. Lamar, of Mississippi ; Postmaster-General, William F. Vilas, of Wisconsin ; Attorney-General, A. H. Garland, of Arkansas. The silver question precipitated a controversy be- tween those who were in favor of the continuance of silver coinage and those who were opposed, Mr. Cleveland answering for the latter, even before his inauguration. I 'idjz^c TWENTY-THIRD PRESIDENT. 107 »o»o..@JXl®"<>*«" I 'ENJAMIN HARRISON, the twenty-third President, is the descendant of one of the historical families of this country. The head of the family was a Major General Harrison, one of Oliver Cromwell's trusted follow- ers and fighters. In the zenith of Crom- well's power it became the duty of this Harrison to participate in the trial of Charles I, and afterward tc sign the death warrant of the king. He subse- quently paid for this with his life, being hung Oct. 13, 1660. His descendants came to America, and the next of the family that appears in history is Benja- rzin Harrison, of Virginia, great-grand- father of the subject of this sketch, and after whom he was named. Benjamin Harrison waa a member of the Continental Congress during the years 1 774-5-6, and was one of the original signers of the Declaration of Independence. He wa^ three times elected Governor of Virginia. Qen William Henry Harrison, the son of the distinguished patriot of the Revolution, after a suc- cessful career as a soldier during the War of 1812, and with -a clean record as Governor of the North- western Territory, was elected President of the United States in 1840. His caroer was cut short by death within one month after jis innuguration. President Harrison was born at North Bend, Hamilton Co., Ohio, Aug. 20, 1883. His life up to the time of his graduation by the Miami University, at Oxford, Ohio, was the uneventful one of a coun- try lad of a family of small means. His father was able to give him a good education, and nothing more. He became engaged while at college to ths daughter of Dr. Scott, Principal of a female school at Oxford. After graduating he determined to en- ter upon the study of the law. He went to Cin cinnati and then read law for two years. At the expiration of that time young Harrison received th'. only inheritance of his life ; his aunt dying left him a lot valued at $800. He regarded this legacy as a fortune, and decided to get married at once, »aks this money and go to some Eastern town an '. be- gin the practice of law. He sold his lot, and with the money in his pocket, he started out wita his young wife to fight for a place in the world. Me 108 BENJAMIN HARRISON. decided to go to Indianapolis, which was even at Ihat time a town of promise. He met with sliglit encouragement at first, making scarcely an^'thing the first year. He worked diligently, applj"ing him- self closely to his calling, built up an extensive practice and took a leading rank in the legal pro- fession, lie is the father of two children. In 1860 Mr. Harrison was nominated for the position of Supreme Court Reporter, and then be- gan his experience as a stump speake; He can- vassed the State thoroughly, and was elected by a handsome majority. In 1862 he raised the 17th Indiana Infantry, and was chosen its Colonel. His regiment was composed of the rawest of material, out Col. Harrison employed all his time at first mastering military tactics and drilling his men, when he therefore came to move toward the East with Sherman his regiment was one of the best drilled and organized in the army. At Resaca he especially distinguished himself, and for his bravery at Peachtree Cl'eek he was made a Brig.adier Gen- eral, Gen. Hooker speaking of him in the most complimentary terms. During the absence of Gen. Harrison in the field he Supreme Court declared the office of the Su- preme Court Reporter vacant, and another person was elected to the position. From the time of leav- ing Indiana with his regiment until the fiill ot 1864 be had taken no leave of absence, but having been nominated that year for the same office, he got a thirty-day leave of absence, and during that time made a brilliant canvass ot the State, and was elected for another term. He then started to rejoin Sher- man, but on the way was stricken down with scarlet fever, and after a most trying siege made his way to the front in time to participate in the closing 'xcidents of the war In 1868 Gen. Harrison declined re-election as ;eporter, and resumed the practice of law In 1876 fle was a candidate for Governor. Although de- eated, the brilliant campaign hb made won ior him a National reputation, and he was much sought, es- pecial.y in the East, to make speeches. In 1880, as usual, he took an active part; in the campaign, snd wi^-: elected to the Vnited States Senate. Here uc sei-ved six years, and vas known as one oi the ftblest men, best lawyer' ^nd stronges*' debaters in that body. With the expiration of his Scnaioiia) term he returned to the practice of his profession, becoming the head of one of the strongest firms in the State. The political campaign of 1888 was one of the most memorable in the history of our country. The convention which assembled in Chicago in June and named Mr. Harrison as the chief standard bearer of the Republican party, was great in ever}' partic- ular, and on this .account, and the attitude it as- sumed upon the vital questions of the day, chief among which was the tariff, awoke a deep interest in the campaign throughout the Nation. Shortly after the nomination delegations began to visit Mr. Harrison at Indianapolis, his home. This move- ment became popul.ar, and from all sections of the country societies, clubs and delegations journeyed thither to pay their respects to the distinguished statesman. The popularity of these was greatly increased on account of the remarkable speeches made by Mr. Harrison. He spoke dail}- all through the summer and autumn to these visiting delega- tions, and so varied, masterly and eloquent were his speeches that they at once placed him in the foremost rank of American orators and statesmen. On account of his eloquence as a speaker and hir power as a debater, he was called upon at an un- commonly early age to take part in the discussion of the great questions that then began to agitate tlie country. He was an uncompromising anti slavery man, and was matched against some of tLe most eminent Democratic speakers of his State. No man who felt the touch of his blade der'red to be pitted with him again. With all his eloq^'ence as an orator ho never spoke for oratorical etfect, but his words always went like bullets to the mark He is purely American in his ideas and is a splec did type of the American statesman. Gifted witli quick perception, a logical mind and a ready tongue, he is one of the most distinguished impromptu speakers in the Nation. Many of these speeches sparkled with the rarest of eloquence and contained arguments of greatest weight. Many of his terse statements have alreadr become aphorisms. Origl- nal in thought precise in logic, terse In statement, yet withal faultless in elo'yience, he is recognized as the sound statesman and brilUan: or.ator c ta^ day -^^i ■% ^, l^il. ^"^^ CMO sf^WA lc^\ t I '^^^^-(^Crt^^^cyA^ GO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS. E^KS^-K!®'^®'^ jlP^HADRACH BOND, the first Governor of Illinois after its organization as a State, serving from 1818 to 1822, was bom in Frederick County, Maryland, in the year r773, and was raised a farmer on liis father's plantation, receiving only a plain English education. He emigrated to this State in 1794, when it was a part of the "Northwest Territory," continuing in the vocation in which he had been brought up in his native State, in the " New Design," near Eagle Creek, in what is now Monroe County. He served several terms as a member of the General Assembly of Indiana Territory, after it was organized as such, and in 1812-14 he was a Delegate to the Twelfth and Thirteenth Congresses, taking his seat Dec. 3, 1812, and serving until Oct. 3, (814. These were the times, the reader will recollect, when this Gov- ernment had its last struggle with Great Britain. The year 1812 is also noted in the history of this State as that in which the first Territorial Legislature was held. It convened at Kaskaskia, Nov. 25, and adjourned Dec. 26, following. While serving as Delegate to Congress, Mr. Bond was instrumental in procuring the right of pre-emp- tion on the public domain. On the expiration of his term at Washington he was appointed Receiver of Public Moneys at Kaskaskia, then the capital of the Territory. In company wiih John G. Comyges, Thomas H. Harris, Charles Slade, Michael Jones, Warren Brown. Edward Humphries and Charles W Hunter, he became a proprietor of the site of the initial city of Cairo, which they hoped, from its favor- able location at the junction of the two great rivers near the center of the Great West, would rapidly develop into a metropolis. To aid the enter- prise, they obtained a special charter from the Legis- lature, incorporating both the City and the Bank of Cairo. In i8r8 Mr. Bond was elected the first Governor of the State of Illinois, being inaugurated Oct. 6 that year, which was several weeks before Illinois was actually admitted. The facts are these: In January, i8i8, the Territorial Legislature sent a peti- tion to Congress for the admission of Illinois as a State, Nathaniel Pope being then Delegate. The petition was granted, fixing the northern line of the State on the latitude of the southern extremity of Lake Michigan; but the bill was afterward so amend- ed as to extend this line to its present latitude. In July a convention was called at Kaskaskia to draft a constitution, which, however, was not submitted to the people. By its provisions, supreme judges, pros ecuting attorneys, county and circuit judges, record- ers and justices of the peace were all to be appointed by the Governor or elected by the Legislature. This constitution was accepted by Congress Dec. 30. At that time Illinois comprised but eleven counties, namely, Randolph, Madison, Gallatin, Johnson, Pope, Jackson, Crawford, Bond, Union, Washington and Franklin, the northern portion of the State be- ing mainly in Madison County. Thus it appears that Mr. Bond was honored by the naming of a SHADRACH BOND. county before he was elected Governor, The present county of Bond is of small limitations, about 60 to 80 miles south of Springfield. For Lieutenant Governor tiie people chose Pierre Menard, a prominent and worthy Frenchman, after whom a county in this State is named. In this election there were no opposition candidates, as the popularity of these men had made their promotion to the chief offices of the Siate, even Defore the constitution was drafted, a foregone con- ■clusion. The principal points that excited the people in reference to political issues at this period were local or "internal improvements," as they were called. State banks, location of the capital, slavery and the personal characteristics of the proposed candidates. Mr. Bond represented the " Convention party," for introducing slavery into the State, supported by Elias Ke It Kane, his Secretary of State, and John Mc- Lean, while Nathaniel Pope and John P. Cook led the anti-slavery element. The people, however, did not become very much excited over this issue until 1820, when the faraius Missouri Compromise was adopted by Congress, limiting slavery to the south of the parallel of 36° 30' except in Missouri. While this measure settled the great slavery controversy, so far as the average public sentiment was tempor- arily concerned, until 1854, when it was repealed under the leadership of Stephen A. Douglas, the issue as considered locally in this State was not decided until 1,824, after a most furious campaign. (See sketch of Gov. Coles.) The ticket of 181 8 was a compromise one, Bond representing (moderately) the pro-slavery sentiment and Menard the anti-slavery. An awkward element in the State government under Gov. Bond's administration, was the imperfec- tion of the State constitution. The Convention wished to have Elijah C. Berry for the first Auditor of Public Accounts, but, as it was believed that the new Governor would not appoint him to tiie office, the Convention declared in a schedule that " an auditor of public accounts, an attorney general and such other officers of the State as may be necessary, may be appointed by the General Assembly." The Constitution, as it stood, vested a very large appoint- ing power in the Governor; but for the purpose of getting one man into office, a total change was made, and the power vested in the Legislature. Of this provision the Legislature took advantage, and de Glared that State's attorneys, canal commissioners, bank directors, etc., were all '" officers of the State' and must therefore be appointed by itself independ- ently of the Governor. During Gov. Bond's administration a general law was passed for the incorporation of academies and towns, and one authorizing lotteries. The session of 1822 authorized the Governor to appoint commis- sioners, to act in conjunction with like commissioners appointed by the State of Lidiana, to report on the practicability and expediency of improving the navi- gation of the Wabash River; also inland navigation generally. Many improvements were recommended, some of which have been feebly worked at even till the present day, those along the Wabash being of no value. Also, during Gov. Bond's term of office, the capital of the State was removed from Kaskaskia to Vandalia. In 1820 a law was passed by Congress authorizing this State to open a canal through the public lands. The State appointed commissioners 10 explore the route and prepare the necessary sur- veys and estimates, preparatory to its execution; but, being unable out of its own resources to defray the expenses of the undertaking, it was abandoned until some time after Congress made the grant of land for the purpose of its construction. On the whole. Gov. Bond's administration was fairly good, not being open to severe criticism from any party. In 1824, two years after the expiration of his term of office, he was brought out as a candi- date for Congress against the formidable John P. Cook, but received only 4,374 votes to 7,460 for the latter. Gov. Bond was no orator, but had made many fast friends by a judicious bect-jwment of his gubernatorial patronage, and these worked zealously for him in the campaign. In 1827 ex-Gov. Bond was appointed by the Leg- islature, with Wm. P. McKee and Dr. Gershoni Jayne, as Commissioners to locate a site for a peni- tentiary on the Mississippi at or near Alton. Mr. Bond was of a benevolent and convivial dis- position, a man of shrewd observation and clear ap- preciation of events. His person was erect, stand- ing six feet in height, and after middle life became portly, weighing 200 pounds. His features were strongly masculine, complexion dark, h.iir jet and eyes hazel ; was a favorite wiili the ladies. He died April II, 1S30, in peace and -ontentment id^^r-UA^ Cot agri- cultural society in the State. On account of ill health, however, and having no family to tie him down, he spent much of his time in Eastern cities. About 1832 he changed his residence to I'hiladel- phia, where he died July 7, 1868, and is buried at \V'oodland, near that city. ' O cP-C/u^iSi^-^ GO VEUNORS OF ILLINOIS. 119 I ill a ISM ••<-i<#<->^-^>-j- I INIAN EDWARDS, Governor Ironi 1827 to 1S30, was a soa of Benjamin Edwards, and "as born in Montgomery -^/o County, Maryland, in March, 1775. His domestic train- ^' ing was well fitted to give lis mind strength, firmness and oi.orable iirinciples, and a good foundation was laid fertile elevated character to which he afterwards attained. His parents were Bap- tists, and very strict in their moral piinciples. His education in eaily youth was in company with and partly under the tuition of Hon. Wni. Wirt, whom his father patronized and who was more than two years older. An intimacy was thus forin.-d between them which was lasting for life. He was further educated at Dickinson College, at Car- lisle, Pa. He next cimmenced the study of law, but before completing his course lie moved to Nelson County, Ky., to open a farm for his father and to purchase homes and locate lands for his brothers and sisters. Here he fell in the company of dissolute companions, and for several years led the life of a spendthrift. He was, however, elected to the Legis- lature of Kentucky as the Representative of Nelson •J-ounty before he was 21 years of age, and was re- jected by an almost unanimous vote. In 1798 he was licensed to practice law, and the fjllowing year was admitted to the Courts of Tennes- see. About this time he left Nelson County for Russellville, in Logan County, broke away from his dissolute companions, commenced a reformation and devoted himself to severe and laborious study. He then began to rise rapidly in his profession, and soon became an eminent lawyer, and inside of four years he filled in succession the offices of Presiding Judge of the General Court, Circuit Judge, fourth Judge of the Court of Appeals and Chief Justice of the State, — all before he was 32 years of age! Li addition, in 1802, he received a commission as Major of a battal- ion of Kentucky militia, and in 1804 was chosen a Presidential Elector, on the Jefferson and Clinton ticket. In 1806 he was a candidate Tor Congress, but withdrew on being promoted to the Court of Appeals. Illinois was organized as a separate Territory in the spring of 1809, when Mr. Edwards, then Chief Justice of the Court of Appeals in Kentucky, received from President Madison the appointment as Gover- nor of the new Territory, his commission bearing date April 24, 1809. Edwards arrived at Kaskaskia in June, and on the i ith of that month took the oath of office. At the same time he was appointed Superin- tendent of the United States Saline, this Government interest then developinginto considerable proportions in Southern Illinois. Although during the first three years of his administration he had the power to make new counties and appoint all the officers, yet he always allowed the people of each county, by an informal NINIAN ED WARDS. vole, to select their own officers, both civil and mili- tary. The noted John J. Crittenden, afterward United States Senator from Kentucky, was appointed by Gev. Edwards to the office of Attorney General of the Territory, which office was accepted for a short time only. The Indians in tSio committing sundry depreda- tions in the Territory, crossing the Mississippi from the Territory of Louisiana, a long correspondence fol- lowed between the respective Governors concerning the remedies, which ended in a council with the sav- ages at Peoria in 1812, and a fresh interpretation of the treaties. Peoria was depopulated by these de- predations, and was not re -settled for many je^rs afterward. As Gov. Edwards' term of office expired by law in 1812, he was re-appointed for another term of three years, and again in 1815 for a third term, serving until the organization of the State in the fall of 1818 and the inauguration of Gov. Bond. At this time ex-Gov. Edwards was sent to the United States Senate, his colleague being Jesse B. Thomas. As Senator, Mr. Edwards took a conspicuous part, and acquitted himself honorably in all the measures that came up in that body, being well posted, an able de- bater and a conscientious statesman. He thought seriously of resigning this situation in 1821, but was persuaded by liis old friend, Wm. Wirt, and others to continue in office, which he did to the end of the term. He was then appointed Minister to Mexico by President Monroe. About this time, it appears that Mr. Edwards saw suspicious signs in the conduct of Wm. H. Crawford, Secretary of the United States Treasury, and an ambitious candidate for the Presi- dency, and being implicated by the latter in some of his statements, he resigned his Mexican mission in order fully to investigate the charges. The result was the exculpation of Mr. Edwards. Pro-slavery regulations, often termed "Black Laws," disgraced the statute books of both the Territory and ihe Stale of Illinois during the whole of his career in /his commcnwealtli, and Mr. Edwards always main- tained the doctrines of freedom, and was an important actor in the great struggle which ended in a victory for his parfy in 1824. In 1826 7 the Winnebago and other Indians com- mitted soue depredations in the northern part of the State, and the white settlers, who desired the land? and wished to exasperate the savages into an evacu- ation of the country, magnified the misdemeanors of the aborigines and thereby produced a hostility be- tween the races so great as to precipitate a little war, known in history as the "Winnebago War." A few chases and skirmishes were had, when Gen. Atkinson succeeded in capturing Red Bird, the Indian chief, and putting him to death, thus ending the contest, at least until the troubles commenced which ended in the " Black Hawk War " of 1832. In the interpre- tation of treaties and execution of their provisions Gov. Edwards had much vexatious work to do. The Indians kept themselves generally within the juris- diction of Michigan Territory, and its Governor, Lewis Cass, was at a point so remote that ready cor- respondence with him was difficult or impossible. Gov. Edwards' administration, however, in regard to the protection of the Illinois frontier, seems to havj been very efficient and satisfactory. For a considerable portion of his time after his re- moval to Illinois, Gov. Edwards resided upon his farm near Kaskaskia, which he had well stocked with horses, cattle and sheep from Kentucky, also with fruit-trees, grape-vines and shrubbery. He estab- lished saw and grist-mills, and engaged extensively in mercantilebusiness, having no less than eight or ten stores in this State and Missouri. Notwithstanding the arduous duties of liis office, he nearly always pur- chased the goods himself with which to supply the stores. Although not a regular practitioner of medi- cine, he studied the healing art to a considerable ex- tent, and took great pleasure in prescribing for, and taking care of, the sick, generally without charge. He was also liberal to the poor, several widows and ministers of the gospel becoming indebted to him even for their homes. He married Miss Elvira Lane, of Maryland, in 1803, and they became the affectionate parents of several children, one of wiiom, especially, is well' known to the people of the " Prairie State," namely, Ninian Wirt Edwards, once the Superintendent c< Public Instruction and still a resident of Springfield Gov. Edwards resided at and in the vicinity of Kas- kaskia from 180910 1818; in Edwardsville (named after him) from that time to 1824; and from the lat- ter date at Belleville, St. Clair County, until his death, July 20, 1833, of Asiatic cholera. Edwards County is also named in his honor. ^/ ^^^^0^/0-1.-^/-^^?^^ GO VERAORS OF ILLINOIS. I2J 4^5^C3»^eV@)@@V(2)6'€^f(2) '((^HN REYNOLDS, Governor 1831- Iff^s^ 4, \v;is boil"! in Montgomery Coun- ig: ty, Pennsylvania, Feb. 26, 1788. His father, Robert Reynolds and liis mother, nee Margaret Moore, were both natives of Ireland, from wliich country they emigrated to the United States in 1785, land- ing at Philadelphia. The senior Reynolds entertained an undying hostility to the British Govern- ment. When the subject of tliis sketch was about six months old, hjs parents emigrated with him to Tennessee, where many of their relatives had already located, at the base of the Copper Ridge Mountain, about 14 miles northeast of the present city of Knoxville. There they were ex- oosed to Indian depredations, and were much molest- ed by them. In 1794 they moved into the interior of the State. They were poor, and brought up their children to habits of manual industry. In i8oo tlie fimily removed to Kaskaskia, III., with eight horses and two wagons, encountering many Hardships on the way. Here young Reynolds passed the most of his childhood, while his character began to develop, the most prominent traits of which were ambition and energy. He also adopted the principle and practice of total abstinence from intoxicating liquors. In 1807 the family made another removal, this time to the " Goshen Settlement," at the foot of tlie Mississippi bluffs three or four miles southwest of Edwardsville. On arriving at his 20th year, Mr. Reynolds, seeing that he must look about for his own livelihood and not yet having determined what calling to pursue, concluded first to attend college, and he accordingly went to such an institution of learning, near Knox- ville, Tenn., where he had relatives. Imagine his diffidence, when, after passing the first 20 years of his life without ever having seen a carpet, a papered wall or a Windsor chair, and never having lived in a shingle-roofed house, he suddenly ushered himseir into the society of the wealthy in the vicinity of Knoxville! He attended college nearly two years, going through the principal Latin authors; but it seems that he, like the rest of the world in modern times, had but very little use for his Latin in after life. He always failed, indeed, to exhibit any good degree of literary disciphne. He commenced the study of law in Knoxville, but a pulmonary trouble came on and compelled him to change his mode of life. Accordingly he returned home and re- cuperated, and in 1812 resumed his college and law studies at Knoxville. In the fall of 181 2 he was admitted to the Bar at Kaskaskia. About this time he also learned the French language, which he practiced with pleasure in conversation with his family for many years. He regarded this language as being superior to all others for social intercourse. 12/1 JOHN REYNOLDS. From his services in the West, in the war of i8i 2, he obtained the sobriquet of the " Old Ranger." He was Orderly Sergeant, then Judge Advocate. Mr. Reynolds opened his first law office in the winter and spring of 1814, inthe French village of (3ahokia, then the capital of St. Clair County. In the fall of 1818 he was elected an Associate Justice upon the Supreme Bench by the General Assembly. In 1825 he entered more earnestly than ever into the practice of law, and the very next year was elected a member of the Legislature, where he acted independently of all cliques and private inter- ests. In 1828 the Whigs and Democrats were for the first time distinctively organized as such in Illi- nois, and the usual party bitterness grew up and raged on all sides, while Mr. Reynolds preserved a iudicial calmness and moderation. The real animus ,if the campaign was " Jackson " and " anti-Jackson," 'he former party carrying the State. In August, 1S30, Mr. Reynolds was elected Gov- ernor, amid great e.xciteraent. Installed in office, he did all within his power to advance the cause of edu- cation, internal improvements, the Illinois & Mich- igan Canal, the harbor at Chicago, settling the coun- try, etc.; also recc mmended the winding up of the State Bank, as its affairs had become dangerously complicated. In his national politics, he was a moderate supporter of General Jackson. But the most celebrated event of his gubernatorial admin- istration was the Black Hawk War, which occurred in 1832. He called out the militia and prosecuted the contest with commendable diligence, appearing in person on the battle-grounds during the most critical periods. He was recognized by the President as Major-General, and authorized by him to make treaties vi'itli the Indians. By the assistance of the general Government the war was terminated without much bloodshed, but after many serious fights. This war, as well as everything else, was materially re- tarded by the occurrence of Asiatic cholera in the West. This was its first appearance here, and was the next event in prominence during Gov. Reynolds' term. South Carolina nullification coming up at this time, t was heartily condemned by both President Jackson and Gov. Reynolds, who took precisely the same grounds as the Unionists in the last war. On the termination of his gubernatorial term in • 834, Gov. Reynolds was elected a Member of Con- gress, still coiisidering himself a backwoodsman, as ^e had scarcely been outside of the State since he became of age, and had spent nearly all his youthful days in the wildest region of the frontier. His first move in Congress was to adopt a resolution that in all elections made by the House for officers the votes should be given viva voce, each member in his ])lace naming aloud the person for whom he votes. This created considerable heated discussion, but was es- sentially adopted, and remained the controlling prin- ciple for many years. The ex Governor was scarcely Absent from his seat a single day, during eight ses- sions of Congress, covering a period of seven year^, and he never vacillated in a party vote; but he failed to get the Democratic party to foster his " National Road" scheme. He says, in "My Own Times" (a large autobiography he published), that it was only by rigid economy that he avoided insolvency while in Washington. During his sojourn in that city he was married, to a lidy of the place. In 1837, while out of Congress, and in company with a few others, he built the first railroad in the Mississippi Valley, namely, one about six miles long, leading from his coal mine in the Mississippi bluff to the bank of the river opposite St. Louis. Hiving not the means to purchase a locomotive, they operated it by horse-power. The next spring, however, the com- pany sold out, at great sacrifice. In 1839 the ex-Governor was appointed one of the Canal Commissioners, and authorized to borrow money to prosecute the enterprise. Accordingly, he repaired to Philadelphia and succeeding in obtaining a million dollars, which, however, was only a fourth of what was wanted. The same year he and his wife made at our of Europe. This year, also, Mr. Reynolds had the rather awkward little responsibility of introducing to President Van Buren the noted Mormon Prophet, Joseph Smith, as a " Latter-Day Saint!" In 1846 Gov. Reynolds was elected a member of the Legislature from St. Clair County, more particu larly for the purixsse of obtaining a feasible charter for a macadamized road from Belleville to St. Louis, a distance of nearly 14 miles. This was immediately built, and was the first road of the kind in the State. He was again elected to the Legislature in 1852, when he was chosen Speaker of the House. In i860, aged and infirm, he attended the National Democratic Convention at Charleston, S. C , as an anti-Douglas Delegate, where he received more attention from the Southern Delegates than any other member. He supported Breckenridge for the Presidency. After the October elections foreshadowed the success of Lincoln, he published an address urging the Demo- crats to rally to the support of Douglas. Immedi- ately preceding and during the late war, his corre- spondence evinced a clear sympathy for the Southern secession, and about the first of March, i86r, he urged upon the Buchanan officials the seizure of the treasure and arms in the custom-house and arsenal at St. Louis. Mr. Reynolds was a rather talkative man, and apt in all the Western plirases and catch- words that ever gained currency, besides many cun- ning and odd ones of his own manufacture. He was married twice, but had no children. He died in Belleville, in May, 1865, just after the close of the war. GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS. '27 LLIAM LEE I). EWING, Governor of Illinois Nov. 3 ^^«s to 17, 1834, was a native of Kentucky, and probably of Scotch ancestry. He bad a fine education, was a gentle- man of polished manners and refined sentiment. In 1830 John Rey- nolds was elected Governor of the State, and Zadok Casey Lieutenant Governor, and for the principal events that followed, and the characteristics of the times, see sketch of Gov. Reynolds. The first we ^Ph/ see in history concerning Mr. Ewing, in- forms us that he was a Receiver of Public Mor.eys at Vandalia soon after the organization of this State, and that the public moneys in his liands v.'ere deposited in various banks, as they are usually W-aW i^resent day. In 1823 the State Bank was -ubbed,by which disaster Mr. Ewing lost a thousand- dollar deposit. The subject of this sketcli had a commission as Colonel in the Black Hawk War, and in emergencies ne acted also as Major. In the summer of 1832, when I "ras rumored among the whites that Black Hawk and his men had encamped somewhere on Rock River, Gen. Henry was sent or. a tour of reconnoisance, and witii orders to drive the Indians from the State. After some opposition from his lubordinate officers, Henry resolved to proceed up Rock River in searcii of the enemy. On the 19th of uly, early in the morning, five baggage wagons. cainp equipage and all heavy and cumbersome arti- cles were piled up and left, so that the army migli'- make speedy and forced marches. For some miles the travel was exceedingly bad, crossing swamps and the worst thickets; but the large, fresh trail gave life and animation to t!',e Americans. Gen. Dodge and Col. Ewing were both acting as Majors, and composed the " spy corps " or vanguard of the army. It is supposed the army marched nearly 50 miles this day, and the Indian trail they followed became fresher, and was strewed with much property and trinkets of the red-skin-, that they had lost or thrown away to hasten their march. During 'he following night there was a terrific thunder-storm, and the soldiery, with all their appurtenances, were dior- oughly drenched. On approaching nearer the Indians the next day. Gen. Dodge and Major Ewing, each commanding a battalion of men, were placed in front to bring on the battle, but the savages were not overtaken this day Forced marches were continued until they reached. Wisconsin River, where a veritable battle ensued, resulting in the death of about 68 of Black Hawk's men. The next day they continued the chase, and as soon as he discovered the trail of the Indians leading tow.ird the Mississippi, Maj. Ewing formed his battalion in order of battle and awaited the order of Gen. Henry. The latter soon appeared on the ground and ordered a charge, wliich directly resulted in chasing the red warriors across the great river. Maj. Ewing and his command proved particularly efficient in war, as it seems they were the chief actors in driving the main body of the Sacs and Foxes, in- T28 WILLIAM L. D. EWING. eluding Black Hawk himself, across the Mississippi, while Gen. Atkinson, commander-in-chief of the ex- pedition, with a body of the army, was hunting for them -.n another direction. In the above affair Maj. Ewmg is often referred to as a "General," which title he had derived from his connection with the militia. It was in the latter part of the same year (1832) that Lieutenant Governor Casey was elected to Con- gress and Gen. Ewing, who had been elected to the Senate, was chosen to preside over that body. At the August election of 1834, Gov. Reynolds was also elected to Congress, more than a year ahead of the time at which he could actually take his seat, as was then tlie law. His predecessor, Chailes Slade, had just died of Asiatic cholera, soon after the elec- tion, and Gov. Reynolds was chosen to serve out his unexpired term. Accordingly he set out for Wash- ington in November of that year to take his seat in Congress, and Gen. Ewing, by virtue of his office as President of the Senate, became Governor of the State of Illinois, his term covering only a period of 15 days, namely, from the 3d to the 17th days, in- clusive, of November. On the 17th the Legislature met, and Gov. Ewing transmitted to that body his message, giving a statement of the condition of the affairs of the State at that time, and urging a contin- uance of the policy adopted by his predecessor; and on the same day Governor elect Joseph Duncan was sworn into office, thus relieving Mr. Ewing from the responsible situation. This is the only time that such a juncture has happened in the history of Illi- nois. On the 29th of December, 1835, Gen. Ewing was elected a United States Senator to serve out the unexpired term of Elias Kent Kane, deceased. The latter gentleman was a very prominent figure in the early politics of Illinois, and a county in this State is named in his honor. The election of Gen. Ewing to the Senate was a protracted struggle. His competi- tors were James Semple, who af erwards held several important offices in this State, and Richard M. Young, afterward a United States Senator and a Supreme Judge and a man of vast influence. On the first ballot Mr. Semple had 25 votes. Young 19 and Ewing 18. On the eighth ballot Young was dropped ; the ninth and tenth stood a tie ; but on the 1 2th E.ving received 40, to Semple 37, and was accordingly declared elected. In 1837 Mr. Ewin^; received some votes for a continuance of his term in Congress, when Mr. Young, just referred to, was elected. In 1842 Mr. Ewing was elected State Audit-^r on the ticket with Gov, Ford. Gen. Ewing was a gentleman of culture, a lawyer by profession, and was much in public life. In person he was above medium height and of heavy builJ, with auburn hair, blue eyes, large-sized head and short face. He was genial, social, friendly and affable, with fair talent, though of no high degree o' originality. He died March 25, 1846. £ Jc^s'^/^^ ^ GO VEKNOKS OF ILLINOIS. !-!I 'i'^'isi££M^^lic Mon-'vs, and to fulfill the office more conveniently lie removed to the city of Quincy. While, in 1838, the unwieldy internal iin[)rovemeiit system of the State was in full operation, witli all its ex|)ensive machinery, amidst bank suspensions throughout the United States, a great stringency in the money market everywhere, and Illinois bonds forced to sale at a heavy discount, and the " liardest times " existing that the people of the Prairie State ever saw, the general election of State officers was approaching. Discreet men who had ciierished tiie hope of a speedy subsidence of the public infatua- tion, met with disappointment. A Governor and Legislature were to be elected, and these were now looked forward to for a repeal of the ruinous State policy. But the grand schenif; had not yet lost it-f dazzling influence upon the minds of the people. Time and e.xperience had not yet fully demonstrated its utter absurdity. Hence the question of arresting its career of profligate expenditures did not become a leading one with the dominant party during the campaign, and most of the old members of the Leg islatuie were returned at this election. Under these circumstances the Democrats, in State G)nvention assembled, nominated Mr. Carlin for the office of Gov-'rnor, and S. H. Anderson for Lieuten- ant Governor, while the Whigs nominated Cyrus Ed- wards, brotherof Ninian Edwards, formerly Governor, and W. H. Davidson. Edwards came out strongly for a continuance of the State policy, while Car!:;- remained non-committal. This was the first tunc that the two main political parties in this State were unembar'assed Ijy any third party in the field. The result of the election was: Carlin, 35,573 ; Ander- son, 30,335; Edwards, 29,629; and Davidson, 28,- Ui)on the meeting of the subsequent Legislature (1839), the retiring Governor CDuncan) in his mes- •36 THOMAS CARLIN. sage spoke in emphatic terms of the impolicy of the internal improvement system, presaging the evils threatened, and uiged that body to do their utmost to correct the great error ; yet, on the contrary, the Legislature not only decided to continue the policy but also added to its burden by voting more appro- priations and ordering more improvements. Although the money market was still stringent, a further loan of $4,000,000 was ordered for the Illinois & Mich- igan Canal alone. Cn'cago at that time began to loom up and promise to be an important city, even the great emporium of the West, as it has since in- deed came to be. Ex-Gov. Reynolds, an incompe- tent financier, was commissioned to effect the loan, and accordingly hastened to the East on this respons- ible errand, and negotiated the loans, at considera- ble sacrifice to the State. Besides this embarrassment X. Carlin's administration, the Legislature also de- clared that he had no authority to appoint a Secretary of State until a vacancy existed, and A. P. Field, a Whig, who had already held the post by appointment .hrough three administrations, was determined to keep the place a while longer, in spite of Gov. Car- lins preferences. The course of the Legislature in this regard, however, was finally sustained by the Supreme Court, in a quo ivarranio case brought up before it by Jchn A. McClernand, whom the Gov- ernor had nominated for the office. Thereuwn that dignified body was denounced as a "Whig Court!" endeavoring to establish the principle of life-tenure of office. A new law was adopted re-organizing the Judici- ary, and under it five additional Supreme Judges were elected by the Legislature, namely, Thomas Ford (afterward Governor), Sidney Breese, Walter B. Scales, Samuel H. Treat and Stephen A. Douglas — all Democrats. It was during Gov. Carlin's administration that the noisy campaign of " Tippecanoe and Tyler too " oc- curred, resulting in a Whig victory. This, however, did net affect Illinois politics very seriously. Another prominent event in the West during Gov. Carlin's term of office was the excitement caused by the Mormons and their removal from Independence, Mo., to Nauvoo, 111., in 1840. At the same time they began to figure somewhat in State politics. On account of their believing — as they thought, accord- ing to the New Testament — that they should have " all things common," and that consequently " all the earth " and all that is upon it were the" Lord's " and therefore the property of his " saints," they were suspected, and correctly, too, of committing many of the deeds of larceny, robbery, etc., that were so rife throughout this country in those days. Hence a feeling of violence grew up between the Mormons and "anti-Mormons." In the State of Missouri the Mormons always supported the Dem- ocracy until they were driven out by the Democratic government, when they turned their support to the Whigs. They were becoming numerous, and in the Legislature of 1840-1, therefore, it became a matter of great interest with both parties to conciliate these people. Through the agency of one John C. Ben- nett, a scamp, the Mormons succeeded in rushing through the Legislature (both parties not darinj» to oppose) a charter for the city of Nauvoo which vir- tually erected a hierarchy co-ordinate with the Fed- eral Government itself. In the fall of 1841 the Governor of Missouri made a demand upon Gov. Carlin for the body of Joe Smith, the Mormon leader, as a fugitive from justice. Gov. Carlin issued th^ writ, but for some reason it was returned unserved. It was again issued in 1842, and Smith was arrested, but was either rescued by his followers or discharged by the municipal court on a writ of habeas corpus. In December, 1841, the Democratic Convention nominated Adam W. Snyder, of Belleville, for Gov- ernor. As he had been, as a member of the Legisla- ture, rather friendly to the Mormons, the latter naturally turned their support to the Democratic party. The next spring the Whigs nominated Ex- Gov. Duncan for the same office. In the meantime the Mormons began to grow more odious to the masses of the people, and the comparative prospects of the respective parties for success became very problematical. Mr. Snyder died in May, and Thomas Ford, a Supreme Judge, was substituted as a candidate, and was elected. At the close of his gubernatorial term, Mr. Carlin removed back to his old home at Carrollton, where he spent tha remainder of his life, as before his ele- vation to office, in agricultural pursuits. In 1849 he served out the unexpired term of J. D. Fry in the Illinois House of Representatives, and died Feb. 4, 1852, at his residence at Carrollton, leaving a wife and seven children. I o. ■'^A-t^I'V-^A^ GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS. 139 N?>*- >gHOMAS FORD, Governor from 1842 to 1846, and au- thor of a very interesting history of Illinois, was born at Uniontown, Pa., in the year 1 800. His mother, after the death of her first hus- band (Mr. Forquer), married Rob- ert Ford, who was killed in 1802, by the Indians in the mountains of Pennsylvania. She was conse- quently left in indigent circum- stances, with a large family, mostly girls. With a view to better her condition, she, in 1804, removed to Missouri, where it had been cus- tomary by the Spanish Govern- ment to give land to actual settlers; but upon her arrival at St. Louis she found the country ceded to the United States, and the liberal policy toward set- tlers changed by the new ownership. After some sickness to herself and family, she finally removed to Illinois, and settled some three miles south of Water- loo, but the following year moved nearer the Missis- sippi bluffs. Here young Ford received his first 1 schooling, under the instructions of a Mr. Hum[)hrey, for which he had to walk three miles. His mother, though lacking a thorough education, was a woman of superior mental endowments, joined to energy and determination of character. She inculcated in her children those high-toned principles which dis- tinguished her sons in public life. She exercised a rigid economy to provide her children an education; but George Forquer, her oldest son (six years older than Thomas Ford), at an early age had to quit school to aid by his labor in the support of the family. He afterward became an eminent man in Illinois affairs, and but for his early death would jMobably have been elected to the United States Senate. Young Ford, with somewhat better opportunities, received a better education, though limited to the curriculum of the common school of those pioneer times. His mind gave early promise of superior en- dowments, with an inclination for mathematics. His proficiency attracted the attention of Hon. Daniel P. Co)k, who became his efficient patron and friend The latter gentleman was an eminent Illinois states- man who, as a Member of Congress, obtained a grant of 300,000 acres of land to aid in completing the Illinois & Michigan Canal, and after whom the county of Cook was named. Through the advice of 140 THOMAS FORD. this gentleman, Mr. Ford turned his attention to the study of law; but Forq;ier, then merchandising, re- garding his education defective, sent him to Transyl- vania University, where, however, he remained but one term, owing to Forquer's failure in business. On his return he aUernated his law reading with teach- irig school for support. In 1829 Gov. Edwards app;jinled him Pro-iecuting Attorney, and in 1831 he was re-appointed by Gov. Reynolds, and after that he was four times elected a Judge by the Legislature, without opposition, twice a Circuit Judge, oice a Judge of Chicago, and as As- sociate Judge of the Supreme Court, when, in 1841, the latter tribunal was re -organized by the addition of five Judges, all Democrats. Ford was assigned to the Ninth Judicial Circuit, and while in this capacity ne was holding Court in Ogle County he received a notice of his nomination by the Democratic Conven- tion for the office of Governor. He immediately re- signed his place and entered upon the canvass. In August, 1842, he was elected, and ou the 8th of De- cember following he was inaugurated. All the offices which he had lield were unsolicited by him. He received them upon the true Jefferson- jan principle, — Mever to a-.k and never to refuse office. Both as a lawyer and as a Judge he stood deservedly high, but his cau of intellect fitted him rather for a writer upon law than a practicing advo- cate in the courts. In the latter capacity he was void of the moving Dower of eloquence, so necessary to success with juries. As a Judge his opinions were ■'ound, lucid and able expositions of the law. In ,)ractice, he was a stranger to the tact, skill and in- sinuating address of the politician, but he saw through he arts of demagogues as w;:ll as any man. He was plain in his demeanor, so much so, indeed, that at one time after the expiration of his term of office, during a session of the Legislature, he was taken by a stranger 10 be a seeker for the position of door- Keeper, and was wai;ed upon at his hotel near mid- r.ight by a knot of small office-seekers with the view of effecting a " combination ! " Mr. Ford had not the " brass " of the ordinary politician, nor that impetuosity which characterizes a political leader. He cared little for money, and fiardly enough for a decent support. In person he was of small stature, slender, of dark complexion, with black hair, sharp features, deep-set eyes, a pointed, aquiline nose having a decided twist to one side, and a small mouth. The three most important events in Gov. Ford's r.dn".inistration were the establishment of the high financial credit of the State, the " Mormon War "and .he Me.xican War. In the first of tnese the Governor proved himself 'a be eir;inently wise. On coming into office he found the State badly paralyzed by the rui'ious effects of •.ne r.otocious "internal improvement" schemes of the preceding decade, with scarcely anything tc; show by w-iy of "improvement." The enterprise that seemed to be getting ahead more than all the rest was the Illinois & Michigan Canal. As this promised to be the most important thoroughfare, feasible to the people, it was well under headway in its construction. Therefore the State policy was almost concentrated upon it, in order to rush it on te completion. The bonded indebtedness of the State was growing so large as to frighten the people, and they were about ready to entertain a proposition for repudiation. But the Governor had the foresight to recommend such measures as would maintain the public credit, for which every citizen to-day feels thankful. But perhaps the Governor is remembered more for his connection with the Mormon troubles than for anything else; for it was during his term of office that the " Latter-Day Saints " becam? so strong at Nauvoo, built their temple there, incre.tsed their num- bers throughout thecount-y, committed misdemean- ors, taught dangerous doctrines, suffered the loss of their leader, Jo Smith, by a violent death, were driven out of Nauvoo to the far West, etc. Having i)een a Judge for so many years previously, Mr. Ford of course was no i-committal concerning Mormon affairs, and was therefore claimed by both parties and also accused by each of sympathizing too greatly with the other side. Mormonism claiming to be a system of religion, the Governor no doubt was " between two fires," and felt compelled to touch the matter rather " gingerly," and doubtless felt greatly relieved when that pestilential people left the State. Such compli- cated matters, especially when religion is mixed up with them, expose every person particijiating in them to criticism from all parties. The Mexican War was begun in the sjjring of 1845, and was continued into the gubernatorial term of Mr. Ford's su;ce5Sor. The Governor's connection with this war, however, was not conspicuous, as it was only administrative, commissioning officers, etc. Ford's " History of Illinois " is a very readable and entertaining work, of 450 small octavo pages, and is destined to increase in value with the lapse of time. It exhibits a natural flow of compact and forcible thought, never failing to convey the nicest sense. In tracing with his trenchant pen the devious operptions of the professional politician, in which he is inimit- able, his account is open, perhaps, to the objection that all his contemporaries are treated as mere place- seekers, while many of them have since been judged by the people to be worthy statesmen. His writings seem slightly open to the criticism that they exhibit a litile splenetic partiality against those of his con- temporaries who were prominent during his term of office as Governor. The death of Gov. Ford took place at Peoria, III., Nov. 2, i8i;o. I i — -^^^-^^=^^^^M^^^ GO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS. 143 S-t '-...^'-if- I Augustus a French. {^ i:^ iUGUSTUS C. FRENCH, Governor of Illinois from 1846 to 1852, was born in the town of Hill, in the State of New Hampshire, Aug. 2, 1808. He was a descendant in the fourth generation of Nathaniel French, who emigrated from England in 1687 and settled in Saybury, Mass. In early life young French lost his father, but continued to receive in- struction from an exemplary and Christian mother until he was 19 years old, when she also died, confiding to his care and trust four younger broth- ers and one sister. He discharged his trust with parental devotion. His education in early life was such mainly as a common school afforded. For a brief period he attended Dartmouth College, but from pecuniary causes and the care of his brothers and sister, he did not graduate. He subsequently read law, and was admitted to the Bar in 1831, and shortly afterward removed to Illinois, settling first at Albion, Edwards County, where he established him- self in the practice of law. The following year he removed to Paris, Edgar County. Here he attained eminence in his profession, and entered public life by representing that county in the Legislature. A strong attachment sprang up between him and Ste- phen A. Douglas. In 1839, Mr. French was appointed Receiver of the United States Land Office at Palestine, Craw- ford County, at which place he was a resident when elevated to the gubernatorial chair. In 1844 he was a Presidential Elector, and as such he voted for James K. Polk. The Democratic State Convention of 1846, meet- ing at Springfield Feb. 10, nominated Mr. French for Governor. Other Democratic candidates were Lyman Trumbull, John Calhoun (subsequently of Lecompton Constitution notoriety), Walter B. Scates. Richard M. Young and A. W. Cavarly, — an array of very able and prominent names. Trumbull was per- haps defeated in the Convention by the rumor that he was opposed to the Illinois and Michigan Canal, as he had been a year previously. For Lieutenant Governor J. B. Wells was chosen, while other candi- dates were Lewis Ross, Wm. McMurlry, Newton Cloud, J. B. Hamilton and W. W. Thompson. The resolutions declared strongly against the resuscita- tion of the old State Banks. The Whigs, who were in a hopeless minority, held their convention June 8, at Peoria, and selected Thomas M. Kilpatrick, of Scott County, for Governor, and Gen. Nathaniel G. Wilcox, of Schuyler, for Lieutenant Governor. In the campaign the latter exposed Mr. French's record and connection with the passage of the in- ternal improvement system, urging it against his election; but in the meantime the war with Mexico broke out, regarding which the Whig record was un- popular in this State. The war was the absorbing and dominating question of the period, sweeping every other political issue in its course. The elec- tion in August gave Mr. French 58,700 votes, and Kilpatrick only 36,775. Richard Eells, Abolitionist candidate for the same office, received 5,152 vots>s 144 AUGUSTUS C. FRENCH. By the new Constitution of 1848, a new election for State officers was ordered in November of that year, before Gov. French's terra was half out, and he was re-elected for the term of four years. He was there- fore the incumbenl for six consecutive years, the only Governor of this State who has ever served in that capacity so long at one time. As there was no organized opposition to his election, he received 67,- 453 votes, to 5,639 for Pierre Menard (son of the first Lieutenant Governor), 4,748 for Charles V. Dyer, 3,834 for W. L. D. Morrison, and i,36t for James I.. D. Morrison. But Wm. McMurtry, of Knox County, was elected Lieutenant Governor, in place of Joseph B. Wells, who was before elected and did not run again. Governor French was inaugurated into office dur- ing the progress of the Mexican War, which closed during the summer of 1847, although the treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was not made until Feb. 2, 1848. The policy of Gov. French's party was com- mitted to that war, but in connection with that affair he was, of course, only an administrative officer. During his term of office, Feb. 19, 1847, the Legisla- ture, by special permission of Congress, declared tiiat all Government lands sold to settlers should be im- mediately subject to State taxation; before this they were exempt for five years after sale. By this ar- rangement the revenue was materially increased. About the same lime, the distribution of Government !and warrants among the Mexican soldiers as bounty threw upon the market a great quantity of good lands, and this enhanced the settlement of the State. The same Legislature authorized, with the recom- mendation of the Governor, the sale of the Northern Cross Railroad (from Springfield to Meredosia, the first in the State and now a section of the Wabash, St. Louis & Pacific) It sold for $100,000 in bonds, although it had cost the State not less than a million. The salt wells and canal lands in the Saline reserve in Gallatin County, granted by the general Govern- ment to the State, were also authorized by the Governor to be sold, to apply on the State debt. \\\ 1850, for the first time since 1839, the accruing State revenue, exclusive of specific appropriations, was sufficient to meet the current demands upon the treasury. The aggregate taxable property of the State at this time was over $100,000,000, and the population 851,470. In 1S49 the Legisiivture adopted the township or- ganization law, which, however, proved defective, and was properly amended in 185 1. At its session in the latter year, the General Assembly also pasied a law to exempt homesteads from sale on executions This beneficent measure had been repeatedly urgecj upon that body by Gov. French. In 1S50 some business men in St. Louis com- menced to build a dike opposite the lower part of their city on the Illinois side, to keep the Mississippi in its channel near St. Louis, instead of breaking away from them as it sometimes threatened to do. This they undertook without permission from the Legislature or Executive authority of this State ; and as many of the inhabitants thera complained that the scheme would inundate and ruin much valuable land, there was a slight conflict of jurisdictions, re- sulting in favor of the St. Louis project; and since then a good site has existed there for a city (East St. Louis), and now a score of railroads center there. It was in September, 1850, that Congress granted to this State nearly 3,000,000 acres of land in aid of the completion of the Illinois Central Railroad, which constituted the most important epoch in the railroad — we might say internal improvement — his- tory of the State. The road was rushed on to com- pletion, which accelerated the settlement of the in- terior of the State by a good class of industrious citi- zens, and by the charter a good income to the State Treasury is paid in from the earnings of the road. In 185 r the Legislature passed a law autliorizing free stock banks, which was the source of much leg- islative discussion for a number of years. But we have not space further to particularize concerning legislation. Gov. French's administra- tion was not marked by any feature to be criticised, while the country was settling up as never before. In stature, Gov. French was of medium height, squarely built, light complexioned, with ruddy face and pleasant countenance. In manners he was plain and agreeable. By nature he was somewhat diffident, but he was often very outspoken in his con- victions of duty. In public speech he was not an orator, but was chaste, earnest and persuasive. In business he was accurate and methodical, and in his administration he kept up the credit of the State. He died in 1865, at his home in Lebanon, St. Clair Co., Til. GO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS. 147 l0el %. plsi'ttes0tt !.<)EL A. MATTESON, Governor ^Mgst 1853-6, was born Aug. 8, 1808, 1^1 in Jefferson County, New York, to which place his father had re- moved from Vermont three years before. His father was a farmer in fair circumstances, but a com- mon Enghsh education was all that his only son received. Young Joel first tempted fortune as a small tradesman in Prescott, Canada, before he was of age. He returned from that place to his home, entered an academy, taught school, visited the prin- cipal Eastern cities, improved a farm liis father had given him, made a tour in the South, worked tliere in building railroads, experienced a siorm on the Gulf of Mexico, visited the gold diggings of Northern Georgia, and returned via Nashville to St. Louis and through Illinois to his father's home, when he mar- ried. In 1833, having sold his farm, he removed, with his wife and one child, to Illinois, and entered a claim on Government land near the head of Au Sable River, in what is now Kendall County. At that time there were not more than two neighbors within a range of ten miles of his place, and only ■ hree or four houses between him and Chicago. He opened a large farm. His fatuily was boarded 12 miles away while he erected a house on his claim, sleeping, daring this time, under a rude pole shed. Here his life was once placed in imminent peril by a huge prairie rattlesnake sharing his bed. In 1835 he bought largely at the Government land sales. During the speculative real-estate mania which broke out in Chicago in 1 836 and spread over the State, he sold his lands under the inflation of that period and removed to Joliet. In 1838 he became a heavy contractor on the Illinois & Michigan Canal. Upon the completion of his job in 1841, when hard times prevailed, business at a stand, contracts paid in State scrip; when all the public works except the canal were abandoned, the State offered for sale 700 tons of railroad iron, which was purchased by Mr. Mat- teson at a bargain. This he accepted, shipped and sold at Detroit, realizing a very handsome profit, enough to pay off all his canal debts and leave hirn a surplus of several thousand dollars. His enterprise next prompted him to start a woolen mill at Joliet, in which he prospered, and which, after successive enlargements, became an enormous establishment. In 1842 he was first elected a State Senator, but, by a bungling apiiortionment, jC. m Pearson, a Senator holding over, was found to be in the same district, and decided to be entitled to represent it. Mat- teson's seat was declared vacant. Pearson, however with a nobleness difficult to appreciate in this day of [48 JOEL A. MATTESON. greed for office, unwilling to represent his district under the circumstances, immediately resigned his unexpired term of two years. A bill was passed in a few hours ordering a new election, and in ten days' time Mr. Matteson was returned re-elected and took his seat as Senator. From his well-known capacity as a business man, he was made Chairman of the Committee on Finance, a position he held during this half and two full succeeding Senatorial terms, discharging its im[X)rtant duties with ability and faith- fulness. Besides his extensive woolen-mill interest, when work was resumed on the canal under the new loan of $[,600,000 he again became a heavy con- tractor, and also subsequently operated largely in building railroads. Thus he showed himself a most energetic and thorough business man. He was nominated for Governor by the Demo- cratic State Convention which met at Springfield April 20, 1852. Other candidates before the Con- vention were D. L. Gregg and F. C. Sherman, of Cook ; John Dement, of Lee ; Thomas L. Harris, of Menard; Lewis W. Ross, of Fulton ; and D. P. Bush, of Pike. Gustavus Koerner, of St. Clair, was nom- inated for Lieutenant Governor. For the same offices the Whigs nominated Edwin B. Webb and Dexter A. Knowlton. Mr. Matteson received 80,645 votes at the election, while Mr. Webb received 64,408. Mat- teson's forte was not on the stump; he had not cul- tivated the art of oily flattery, or the faculty of being all things to all men. His intellectual qualities took rather the direction of efficient executive ability. His turn consisted not so much in the adroit manage- ment of party, or the powerful advocacy of great gov- ernmental principles, as in those more solid and enduring operations which cause the physical devel- opment and advancement of a State, — of commerce and business enterprise, into which he labored with success to lead the people. As a politician he was just and liberal in his views, and both in official and private life he then stood untainted and free from blemish. As a man, in active benevolence, social rirtues and all the amiable qualities of neighbor or citizen, he had few superiors. His messages present a perspicuous array of facts as to the condition of the State, and are often couched in forcible and elegant diction. The greatest excitement during his term of office was the repeal of the Missouri Compromise, by Con- gress, under the leadership of Stephen A. Douglas in 1854, when the bill was passed organizing the Terri- tory of Kansas and Nebraska. A large portion of the Whig parfy of the North, through their bitter op- position to the Democratic party, naturally drifted into the doctrine of anti-slavery, and thus led to vi'hat was temporarily called the "Anti-Nebraska" party, while the followers of Douglas were known as " Ne- braska or Douglas Democrats." It was during this embryo stage of the Republican party that Abraham Lincoln was brought forward as the " Anti-Nebraska " candidate for the United States Senatorship, while Gen. James Shields, the incumbent, was re-nom- inated by the Democrats. But after a fewballotings in the Legislature (1855), these men were dropped, and Lyman Trumbull, an Anti-Nebraska Democrat, was brought up by the former, and Mr. Matteson, then Governor, by the latter. On the nth ballot Mr. Trumbull obtained one majority, and was ac- cordingly declared elected. Before Gov. Matteson's term expired, the Republicans were fully organized as a national party, and in 1856 put into the field a full national and State ticket, carrying the State, but not the nation. The Legislature of 1855 passed two very import- ant measures, — the present free-school system and a submission of the Maine liquor law to a vote of the people. The latter was defeated by a small majority of the popular vote. During the four years of Gov. Matteson's admin- istration the taxable wealth of the State was about trebled, from $137,818,07910 $349,951,272; the pub- lic debt was reduced from $17,398,985 to $12,843,- 144; taxation was at the same time reduced, and the State resumed paying interest on its debt in New York as fast as it fell due ; railroads were increased in their mileage fronr something less than 400 to about 3.000 ; and the population of Chicago was nearly doubled, and its commerce more than quad- rupled. Before closing this account, we regret that we have to say that Mr. Matteson, in all other respects an upright man and a good Governor, was implicated in a false re-issue of redeemed canal scrio, amount- ing to $224,182.66. By a suit in the Sangamon Cir- cuit Court the State recovered the jirincipal and a.ll the interest excepting $27,500. He died in the winter of 1872--3, at Chicago. '..^j^^i^^u^^e. GO VERJ^ORS OF ILLINOIS. 151 ^^e^ 1-5— # a<3!$->^®-t> [LLIAM H. BISSELL, Gov- ernor 1857-60, was born p A]5ril 25, 181 1, in the State of New York, near Painted Post, Yates County. His parents were obscure, honest, God-fearing people, who reared their children under the daily example of industry and frugality, accord- ing to the custom of that class of Eastern society. Mr. Bissell received a respecta- ble but not thorough academical education. By assiduous application he acquired a knowledge of medicine, and in his early manhood came West and located in Mon- roe County, this State, where he engaged in the practice of that profession. But he was not enam- ored of his calling: he was swayed by a broader ambitiori, to such an extent that the mysteries of the healing art and its arduous duties failed to yield him further any charms. In a few years he discovered his choice of a profession to be a mistake, and when he approached the age of 30 he sought to begin anew. Dr. Bissell, no doubt unexpectedly to him- self, discovered a singular facility and charm of speech, the exercise of which acquired for him a ready local notoriety. It soon came lo be under- stood that he desired to abandon his profession and take up that of the law. During terms of Court he would spend his time at the county seat among the members of the Bar, who extended to him a ready welcome. It was not strange, therefore, that he should drift into public life. In 1840 he was elected as a Dem- ocrat to the Legislature from Monroe County, and was an efficient member of that body. On his re- turn home he qualified himself for admission to the Bar and speedily rose to the front rank as an advo- cate. His powers of oratory were captivating. With a pure diction, charming and inimitable gestures, clearness of statement, and a remarkable vein of sly humor, his efforts before a jury told with irresistible effect. He was chosen by the Legislature Prosecut- ing Attorney for the Circuit in which he lived, and in that position he fully discharged his duty to the State, gained the esteem of the Bar, and seldom failed to convict the offender of the law. In stature he was somewliat tall and slender, and with a straight, military bearing, he presented a dis- tinguished appearance. His complexion was dark, his head well poised, though not large, his address pleasant and manner winning. Hi* was exemplary in his habits, a devoted husband and kind parent. He was twice married, the first time to Miss James, '52 WILLIAM H. BISSELL. of Monroe County, by whom he had two children, both daughters. She died soon after the year 1840, and Mr. B. married for his second wife a daughter of Elias K. Kane, previously a United States Senator from this State. She survived hi.oi but a short time, and died without issue. When the war with Mexico was declared in 1846, Mr. Bissell enlisted and was elected Colonel of his regiment, over Hon. Don Morrison, by an almost unanimous vote, — 807 to 6. Considering the limitad opportunities he had had, he evinced a high order of military talent. On the bloody field of Buena Vista he acquitted himself with intrepid and distinguished ability, contributing with his regiment, the Second Illinois, in no small degree toward saving the waver- ing fortunes of our arms during that long and fiercely contested battle. After his return home, at the close of the war, he was elected to Congress, his opponents being tlie Hons. P. B. Fouke and Joseph Gillespie. He served two terms in Congress. He was an ardent jjolitician. During the great contest of 1850 he voted in favor of the adjustment measures; but in 1854 he opposed the repeal of the Missouri Compromise act and therefore the Kansas-Nebraska bill of Douglas, and thus became identified with the nascent Republican party. During his first Congressional term, while the Southern members were following their old practice of intimidating the North by bullying language, and claiming most of the credit for victories in the Mexican War, and Jefferson Davis claiming for the Mississippi troops all the credit for success at Buena Vista, Mr. Bissell bravely defended the Northern troops ; whereupon Davis challenged Bissell to a duel, which was accepted. This matter was brought u)) against Bissell when he was candidate for Governor and during his term of office, as the Constitution of this State forbade any duelist from holding a State office. In 1856, when the Republican party first put forth a candidate, John C. Fremont, for President of the United States, the same party nominated Mr. Bissell for Governor of Illinois, and John Wood, of Quincy, for Lieutenant Governor, while the Democrats nomi- nated Hon. W. A. Richardson, of Adams County, for Governor, and Col. R. J. Hamilton, of Cook County, for Lieutenant Governor. The result of the election was a plurality of 4,729 votes over Richard- son. The American, or Know-Nothing, party had a ticket in the field. The Legislature was nearly bal- anced, but was politically opposed to the Governor. His message to the Legislature was short and rather ordinary, and was criticised for expressing the sup- posed obligations of the people to the incorporators of the Illinois Central Railroad Company and for re- opening the slavery question by allusions to the Kansas troubles. Late in the session an apportion- ment bill, based upon the State census of 1855, was passed, amid much partisan strife. The Governor at first signed the bill and then vetoed it. A furious debate followed, and the question whether the Gov- ernor had the authority to recall a signature was referred to the Courts, that of last resort deciding in favor of the Governor. Two years afterward another outrageous attempt was made for a re-apportionment and to gerrymander the State, but the Legislature failed to pass the bill over the veto of the Governor. It was during Gov. Bissell's administration that the notorious canal scrip fraud was brought to light ''mplicating ex-Gov, Matteson and other prominent State officials. The principal and interest, aggregat- ing $255,500, was all recovered by the State except- ing $27,500. (See sketch of Gov. Matteson.) In 1859 an attempt was discovered to fraudu- lently refund the Macalister and Stebbins bonds and thus rob the State Treasury of nearly a quarter of a million dollars. The State Government was impli- cated in this affair, and to this day remains unex- plained or unatoned for. For the above, and other matters previously mentioned. Gov. Bissell has been severely criticised, and he has also been most shame- fully libelled and slandered. On account of e.xposure in the army, the remote cause of a nervous form of disease gained entrance into his system and eventually developed paraplegia, affecting his lower extremities, which, wiiile it left his body in comparative health, deprived him of loco- motion e.xcept by the aid of crutches. While he was generally hopeful of ultimate recovery, this myste- rious disease pursued him, without once relaxing its stealthy hold, to the close of his life, March 18, i860, over nine months before the expiration of his gubernatorial term, at the early age of 48 years. He died in the faith of the Roman Catholic Church. o< which he har» been a member since 1854. Go VERNORS OF ILLINOIS. •55 #^<^ >;( )HN WOOD, Governof 1860-1, and ft^ the first settler of Quincy, 111., was born in the town of Sempro- nius (now Moravia), Cayuga Co., N. Y., Dec. 20, 1798. He was the second child and only son of Dr. Daniel Wood. His mother, nee Catherine Crause, was of German parentage, and died while he was an infant. Dr. Wood was a learned and skillful physician, of classical attain- ments and proficient in several modern lai guages, who, after serving throughout the Revolu- tionary War as a Surgeon, settled on the land granted hiin by the Government, and resided there a re- spected and leading influence in his section until his deatli, at the ripe age of 92 years. The subject of this sketch, impelled by the spirit of Western adventure then pervading everywhere, left his home, Nov. 2, 1818, and passed the succeed- ing winter in Cincinnati, Ohio. The following sum- mer he pushed on to Illinois, landing at Shavvneetown, and spent the fall and following winter in Calhoun County. In 1820, in company with Willard Keyes, he settled in Pike County, about 30 miles southeast of Quincy, where for the next two years he pursued farming. In i82r he visited "the Bluffs" (as the present siie of Quincy was called, then uninhabited) and, pleased with its prospects, soon after purchased a quarter-section of land near by, and in the follow- ing fall (1822) erected near the river a small cabin, 18 X 20 feet, the first building in Quincy, of which he then became the first and for some months the only occupant. Aiiout this time he visited his old friends in Pike County, chief of wliom was William Ross, the lead- ing man in building up the village of Atlas, of that county, which was thought then to be the possible commencement of 3 city. One day they and others were traveling together over the country between the two points named, making observations on the com- parative merits of the respective localities. On ap- proaching the Mississippi near Mr. Wood's place, the latter told his companions to follow him and he would show them where he was going to build a city. They went about a mile ofifthe main trail, to a high point, from which the view in every direction was most magnificent, as it had been for ages and as yet untouched by the hand of man. Before them swept by the majestic Father of Waters, yet unburdened by navigation. After Mr. Wood had expatiated at length on the advantages of the situation, Mr. Ross replied, " But it's too near Atlas ever to amount to anything! " Atlas is still a cultivated farm, and Quincy is 3 city of over 30,000 population. In 1824 Mr. Wood gave a newspaper notice, as the law then prescribed, of his intention to apply to the General Assembly for the formation of a new county. This was done the following winter, result- ing in the establishment of the present Adams County. During the next summer Quincy was se- lected as the county seat, it and the vicinity then containing but four adult male residents and half 150 JOHN WOOD. that number of females. Since that period Mr. Wood resided at the place of his early adoption un- til his death, and far more than any other man was he identified with every measure of its progress and history, and almost continuously kept in public posi- tions. He was one of the early town Trustees, and after the place became a city he was often a member of the City Council, many times elected Mayor, in the face of a constant large opposition political majority. In 1850 he was elected to the State Senate. In 1856, on the organization of the Republican party, he was chosen Lieutenant Governor of the State, on the ticket with Wm. H. Bissell for Governor, and on the death of the latter, March 18, i860, he succeeded to the Chief Executive chair, which he occupied until Gov. Yates was inaugurated nearly ten months after- ward. Nothing very marked characterized the adminis- tration of Gov. Wood. The great anti-slavery cam- paign of i860, resulting in tlie election of the honest lUinoisan, Abraham Lincoln, to the Presidency of the United States, occurred during the short period while Mr. Wood was Governor, and tne excitement and issues of that struggle dominated over every other consideration, — indeed, supplanted them in a great measure. The people of Illinois, during all that time, were passing the comparatively petty strifes under Bissell's administration to the overwhelming issue of preserving the whole nacion from destruction. In 1861 ex-Gov. Wood was one of the five Dele- gates from Illinois to the " Peace Convention " at Washington, and in April of the sanr.e year, on the breaking om of the Rebellion, he was appointed Quartermaster-General of the State, which position he held throughout the war. In 1864 he took com- mand as Colonel of the 137th 111. Vol. Inf., with whom he served until the period of enlistment ex- pired. Politically, Gov. Wood was always acdvely identi- fied with tlie Whig and Republican parties. Few men have in personal experience comprehended so many surprising and advancing local changes as vested in the more than half century recollections of Gov. Wood. Sixty-four years ago a solitary settler on the "Bluffs," with no family, and no neighbor within a score of miles, the world of civilization away behind him, and the strolling red-man almost his only visitant, he lived to see growing around him, and under his auspices and aid, overspreading the wild hills and scraggy forest a teaming city, second only in size in the State, and surpassed nowhere in beauty, prosperity and promise ; whose people recog- nize as with a single voice the proverbial honor and liberality that attach to the name and lengthened life of their pioneer settler, "the old Governor." Gov. Wood was twice married, — first in January, 1826, to Ann M. Streeter, daughterof Joshua Streeter, formeriy of Salem, Washington Co., N. Y. They had eight children. Mrs. W. died Oct. 8, 1863, and in June, 1865, Gov. Wood married Mrs. Mary A., widow of Rev. Joseph T. Holmes. Gov. Wood died June 4, 1880, at his residence in Quincy. Four of his eight children are now living, namely: Ann E., wife of 'Gen. John Tillson; Daniel C, who married Mary J. Abernethy; John, Jr., who married Josephine Skinner, and Joshua S., who married Annie Bradley. The last mentioned now resides at Atchison, Kansas, and all the rest are still at Quincy. '59 T^^i gi^y^ .A'^v-V .^pV:c^f-.VT.-^>?V:yiS2a; UCHARD YATES, the "War Governor," 1861-4, was born Jan. 18, 18 18, on the banks of the Ohio River, at Warsaw, Gallatin Co., Ky. His lather '^ moved in 1831 to Illinois, and^ after stopping for a time in Springfield, settled at Island Grove, Sangamon County. Here, after attending school, Richard joined tlie family. Subsequently he entered Illinois College at Jacksonville, where, in 1837, he graduated with first honors. He cho-,e for his pro- fession the law, the Hon. J. J. Har- din being his instructor. After ad- mission to the Bar he soon rose to distinction as an advocate. Gifted with a fluent and ready oratory, he soon appeared in the political hustings, and, being a passionate admirer of the great Whig leader of the West. Henry Clay, he joined his political fortunes to .he party of his idol. In 1 840 he engaged with great =Tdor in the exciting " hard cider " campaign for riarrison. Two years later he was elected to the Legislature from Morgan County, a Democratic stronghold. He served three or four terms in the Legislature, and such was the fascination of his ora- Tory that by 1850 his large Congressional District, extending from Morgan and Sangamon Counties . OTth to include LaSalle, unanimously tendered him tne Whig nomination for Congress. His Democratic opponent was Maj. Thomas L. Harris, a very pop- ular man who had won distinction at the battle of Cerro Gordo, in the Mexican War, and who had acaten Hon. Stephen T. Logan for the same position. two years before, by a large majority. Yates wa? elected. Two years later he was re-elected, over John Calhoun. It was during Yates second term in Congress that the great question of the repeal of the Missouri Com- promise was agitated, and the bars laid down for re- opening the dreaded anti-slavery question. He took strong grounds against the repeal, and thus became identified with the rising Republican party. Conse- quently he fell into the minority in his district, which was pro-slavery. Even then, in a third contest, he fell behind Major Harris only 200 votes, after the district had two years before given Pierce 2,000 majority for President. The Republican State Convention of t86o met at Decatur May 9, and nominated for the offi.:e of Gov- ernor Mr. Yates, in preference to Hon. Norman B. Judd, of Chicago, and Leonard Swett, of Blooming- ton, two of the ablest men of the State, who were also candidates before the Convention. Francis A. Hoffman, of DuPage County, was nominated foi Lieutenant Governor. This was the year when Mr. Lincoln was a candidate for President, a period re- membered as characterized by the great whidpool which precipitated the bloody War of the Rebellion. The Douglas Democrats nominated J. C. Allen of Crawford County, for Governor, and Lewis W. Ross, of Fulton County, for Lieutenant Governor. The Breckenridge Democrats and the Bell-Everett party had also full tickets in the field. After a most fear- ful campaign, the result of the election gave Mr. Yates 172,196 votes, and Mr Allen 159,253. Mr. Yates received over a thousand more votes than did Mr. Lincoln himself. Gov. Yates occupied the chair of State during the l6o RICHARD YATES. most critical period of our country's history. In the fate of the nation was involved that of each State. The life struggle of the former derived its sustenance from the loyalty of the latter; and Gov. Yates seemed to realize the situation, and proved himself both loyal and wise in upholding the Government. He had a deep hold upon the affections of the people, won by his moving eloquence and genial manners. Erect and symmetrical in person, of pre- possessing appearance, with a winning address and a magnetic power, few men possessed more of the ele- ments of popularity. His oratory was scholarly and captivating, his hearers hardly knowing why they were transported. He was social and convivial. In the latter respect he was ultimately carried too far. The very creditable military efforts of this State during the War of the Rebellion, in putting into the field the enormous number of about 200,000 soldiers, were ever promptly and ably seconded by his excel- lency ; and the was ambitious to deserve the title of "the soldier's friend." Immediately after the battleof Shiloh he repaired to the field of carnage to look after the wounded, and his appeals for aid were promptly responded to by the people. His procla- mations calling for volunteers were impassionate appeals, urging upon the people the duties and re- quirements of patriotism; and his special message in 1863 to the Democratic Legislature of this State pleading for material aid for the sick and wounded soldiers of Illinois regiments, breathes a deep fervor of noble sentiment and feeling rarely equaled in beauty or felicity of expression. Generally his mes- sages on political and civil affairs were able and com- prehensive. During his administration, however, there were no civil events of an engrossing character, although two years of his time were replete with partisan quarrels of great bitterness. Military ar- rests, Knights of the Golden Circle, riot in Fulton County, attempted suppression of the Chicago Times and the usurping State Constitutional Convention of 1862, were the chief local topics that were exciting during the Governor's term. This Convention assem- bled Jan. 7, and at once took the high position that he law calling it was no longer binding, and that it :,ad supreme power; that it represented a virtual assemblage of the whole people of the State, and was sovereign in the exercise of all power necessary to effect a peaceable revolution of the State Government and to the re-establishment of one for the "happiness., prosperity and freedom of the citizens," limited only by the Federal Con^jtitution. Notwithstanding the law calling the Convention required its members to take an oath to support the Constitution of the State as well as that of the general Government, they utterly refused to take such oath. They also as- sumed legislative powers and passed several import- ant "laws!" Interfering with the (then) present executive duties, Gov. Yates was provoked to tell them plainly that " he did not acknowledge the right of the Convention to instruct him in the performance of his duty." In 1863 the Governor astonished the Democrats by " proroguing " their Legislature. This body, after a recess, met June 2, that year, and soon began to waste time upon various partisan resolutions ; and, while the two houses were disagreeing upon the question of adjourning «■«,? die, the Governor, having the authority in such cases, surprised them all by adjourning them " to the Saturday next preceding the first Monday in January, 1865 ! " This led to great excitement and confusion, and to a reference of the Governor's act to the Supreme Court, who decided in his favor. Then it was the Court's turn to receive abuse for weeks and months afterward. During the autumn of 1864 a conspiracy was de- tected at Chicago which had for its object the liber- ation of the prisoners of war at Camp Douglas, the burning of the city and the inauguration of rebellion in the North. Gen. Sweet, who had charge of the camp at the time, first had his suspicions of danger aroused by a number of enigmatically worded letters which passed through the Camp postoffice. A de- tective afterward discovered that the rebel Gen. Marmaduke was in the city, under an assumed name, and he, with other rebel officers — Grenfell, Morgan, Cantrell, Buckner Morris, and Charles Walsh — was arrested, most of whom were convicted by a court-martial at Cincinnati and sentenced to imprisonment, — Grenfell to be hung. The sentence of the latter was afterward commuted to imprison- ment for life, and all the others, after nine months' imprisonment, were pardoned. In March, 1873, Gov. Yates was appointed a Gov- ernment Director of the Union Pacific Railroad, in which office he continued until his decease, at St. Louis, Mo., on the 27th of November following. GGVhRA'ORS OF ILLINOIS. 163 Michard J. Ogleshy -^3- %^rCHARD J. OGLESBY, Gov- ernor 1865-8, and re-elected in 1872 and 1884, was born July 25, 1824, in Oldham Co., Ky., — the State which might be considered the " mother of Illinois Governors." Bereft of his parents at the tender age of eight years, his early education was neglected. When 12 years of age, and after he had worked a year and a half at the carpenter's trade, he removed with an uncle, Willis Oglesby, into whose care he had been committed, to Decatur, this State, where he continued liis ap- prenticeship as a mechanic, working six months for Hon. E. O. Smith. In 1844 he commenced studying law at Spring- field, with Judge Silas Robbins, and read with him one year. He was admitted to the Bar in 1845, and commenced the practice of his chosen profession at Sullivan, the county seat of Moultrie County. The next year the war with Mexico was com- menced, and in June, 1846, Mr. Oglesby volunteered, was elected First Lieutenant of Co. C, Fourth Illinois Regiment of Volunteers, and participated in the bat- tles of Vera Cru2. and Cerro Gordo. On liis return he sought to perfect his law studies by attending a course of lectures at Louisville, but on the breaking out of the California "gold fever " in 1849, lie crossed the plains and mountains to the new Eldorado, driving a six-mule team, with a com- ^ pany of eight men, Henry Prather being the leader. In 1852 he returned home to Macon County, and was placed that year by the Whig party on the ticket of Presidential Electors. lu 1856 he visited Europe, .\jia and Africa, being absent 20 months. On his return home he resumed the practice of law, as a member of the fir.n of Gallagher, Wait & Oglesby. In 1858 he was the Republican noininee for the Lower House of Congress, but was defeated by the Hon. James C. Robinson, Democrat. In i860 he was elected to the Illinois State Senate ; and on the evening the returns of this election were coming in. Mr. Oglesby had a fisticuff encounter with " Cerro Gordo Williams," in which he came out victorious, and which was regarded as " the first fight of the Rebellion." The following spring, when the war had commenced in earnest, his ardent nature quickly responded to the demands of patriotism and he enlisted. The extra session of the Legislature elected him Colonel of the Eighth Illinois Infantry, the second one in the State raised to suppress the great Rebellion. He WIS shortly entrusted with important com- mands. For a time he was stationed at Bird's Point and Cairo; in April he was promoted Brigadier Gen> eral ; at Fort Donelson his brigade was in the van, being stationed on the right of General Grant's army and the first brigade to be attacked. He lost 500 men before re-inforcements arrived. Many of these men were from Macon County. He was engaged in the battle of Corinth, and, in a brave charge at this place, was shot in the left lung with an ounce ball, and was carried from the field in expectation of im- 164 RICHARD J. OGLESBY. mediate death. That rebel ball he carries to this day. On his partial recovery he was promoted as Major General, for gdlantry, his commission to rank from November, 1862. In the spring of 1863 he was assigned to the command of the i6th Army Corps, but, owing to inability froii the effects of liis wound, he relinquished this command in July, that year. Gen. Grant, however, refused to accept his resignation, and he was detailed, in December follow- ing, to court-martial and try the Surgeon General of tlie Army at Washington, where he remained until May, 1864, when he returned home. The Republican, or Uiion, State Convention of 1864 was held at Springfield, May 25, when Mr. Oglesby was nominated for the office of Governor, while other candidates before the Convention were Allen C. Fuller, of Boone, Jesse K. Dubois, of Sanga- mon, and John M. Palmer, of .Macoupin. Wm. Bross, of Chicago, was nominated for Lieutenant Governor. On the Democratic State ticket were James C. Robinson, of Clark, for Governor, and S. Corning Judd, of Fulton, for Lieutenant Governor. The general election gave Gen. Oglesby a majority of about 31,000 votes. The Republicans had also a majority in both the Legislature and in the repre- sentation in Congress. Gov. Oglesby was duly inaugurated Jan. 17, 1865. The day before the first time set for his installation death visited his ]ij;ne at Decatur, and took from it his only son, an intelligent and sprightly lad of six years, a great favorite of the bereaved parents. This caused the inauguration to be postponed a week. The political events of the Legislative session of 1865 were the election of ex-Gov. Yates to the United States Senate, and the ratification of the 13th amendment to the Constitution of the United States, abolishing slavery. This session also signalized itself by repealing the notorious " black laws," part of which, although a dead letter, had held their place upon the statute books since 1819. Also, la.vs re- quiring tlie registration of voters, and establisiiing a State Board of Equalization, were passed by this Leg- islature. But the same body evinced that it was cor- ruptly influenced by a mercenary lobby, as it adopted some bad legislation, over the Governor's veto, nota- bly an amendment to a charter for a Chicago horse railway, granted in 1859 for 25 years, and now sought to be extended 99 years. As this measure was promptly passed over his veto by both branches of the Legislature, he deemed it useless further to attempt to check their headlong career. At this session no law of a general useful character or public interest was perfected, unless we count such the turning over of the canal to Chicago to be deepened. The session of 1867 was still more productive of private and special acts. Many omnibus bills were prcpcsed, and seme passed. The contests over the iC-cation of the Industrial College, the dipital, the Southern Penitentiary, and the canal enlargement and Illinois River improvement, dominated every thing else. During the year 1872, it became evident that i( the Republicans could re-elect Mr. Oglesby to the office of Governor, they could also elect him to the United_ States Senate, which they desired to do. Accordingly they re-nominated him for the Execu- tive chair, and placed upon the ticket with him for Lieutenant Governor, John L. Beveridge, of Cook County. On the other side the Democrats put into the field Gustavus Koerner for Governor and John C. Black for Lieutenant Governor. The election gave the Republican ticket majorities ranging from 3S'334 to 56,i74,^the Democratic defection being caused mainly Ijy their having an old-time Wliig and Abolitionist, Horace Greeley, on the national ticket for President. According to the general understand- ing had beforehand, as soon as the Legislature met it elected Gov. Oglesby to the United States Senate, whereupon Mr. Beveridge became Governor. Sena- tor Oglesby 's term expired March 4, 1879, -having served his party faithfully and exhibited an order of statesmanship beyond criticism. During the campaign of 1884 Mr. Oglesby was nominated for a "third term" as Executive of the State of Illinois, against Carter H. Harrison, Mayor of Chicago, nominated by the Democrats. Both gentlemen "stumped " the State, and while the peo- ple elected a Legislature which was a tie on a join; ballot, as between the two parties, they gave the jovial " Dick" Oglesby a majority of 15,018 for Gov- ernor, and he was inaugurated Jan. 30, 1885. The Legislature did not fully organize until this date, on account of its equal division between the two main parties and the consequent desperate tactics of eacl: party to clieckmate the latter in the organization of the House. Gov. Oglesby is a fine-appearing, affable man, with regular, well defined features and rotund face. In stature he is a little above tiiedium height, of a large frame and somewhat fleshy. His physical a|)pear- ance is striking and prepossessing, while his straight- out, not to say bluff, manner and speech are wcL calculated favorably to impress the average masses. Arlent in feeling and si rongly committed to the pol- icies of his party, he intensifies Republicani.;n-. among Republicans, while at the same time hisjovia. and liberal manner prevents those of the opposite party from hating him. He is quite an effective stump orator. With vehe- ment, passionate and scornful tone and gestures. tremendous physical power, which in speaking he exercises to the utmost; with frequent descents to the grotesque; and with al)undant homely compari- sons or frontier figures, expressed in the broadest vernacular and enforced with stentorian emphacis, he delights a promiscuous audience beyond measure A-^^-'^^oc^ GO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS. 1U7 O-v- J o HN M. Pa l mer r^'^'§§l'^'^^:;-■^^l^.;:l^V'l^i^|^^;'l^?a'■gl>:^';:'l '.^i'..'! •.-'.•..'.•..'■;. '■'•.'tgg't^-^i^t^t^ta;;' ':'^:OHN Mc AUl.EY PALMER, Gov- ernor 1869-72, was born on Engle Creek, Scott Co., Ky , Sept. 13, 1817. During his in- fancy, his father, who had been a soldier in the war of 18 12, re- moved to Christian Co., Ky., where lands were cheap. Here the future Governor of the great Prairie State spent his ciiildhood and received such meager school- ing as the new and sparsely set- tled country afforded. To this he added materially by diligent reading, for which he evinced an eaily aptitude. His father, an ardent Jackson man, was also noted for his anti-slavery sentiments, which he thoroughly impressed upon his children. In 1831 he emigrated to Illinois, settling in Madison County. Here the labor of improving a farm was pursued for about two years, when the death of Mr. P.ilmer's Kiother broke up the family. About tliis tmie Alton College was opened, on the "manual labor " system, and in the spring of 1834 young Palmer, with his elder brother, Elilui, entered this school and remained 18 months. Next, for over three years, he tried variously coopering, peddling and school-teaching. Dunng lire summer of 1838 he formed the ac- quaintance of Stephen A, Douglas, then making his first canvass for Congress. Young, eloquent and in l)olitical accord with Mr. Palmer, he won his confi- dence, fired his ambition and fixed his purpose. The following winter, while teaching near Canton, he be- gan to devote his spare time to a desultory reading of la.v, and in the spring entered a law office at Car- li;iville, making liis home with his elder brother, Elihu. (I'he latter was a learned clergyman, of con- siderable orginality of thought and doctrine.) On the next meeting of the Supreme Court he was ad- mitted to the Bar, Douglas being one of his examiners. He was not immediately successful in his profession, and would have located elsewhere than Carlinville had he the requisite means. Thus his early poverty was a blessing in disguise, for to it he now attributes the success of his life. From 1839 on, while he diligently pursued his profession, he participated more or less in local politics. In 1843 he became Probate Judge. Ir t847 he was elected to the State Constitutional Con vention, where he took a leading part. In 1852 ht. was elected to the State Senate, and at the special session of February, 1854, true to the anti-slavery sentiments bred in him, he took a firm stand in op- position to the repeal of the Missouri Compromise, and when the Nebraska question became a party issue he refused to receive a re-nomination for thi Senatorship at the hands of the Democracy, issuing a circular to that effect. A few weeks afterward i68 JOHN MC AULEY PALMER. however, hesitating to break with his party, he par- ticipated in a Congressional Convention which noini- T. L. Harris against Richard Yates, and which unqualifiedly approved the principles of the Kansas- Nebraska act. But later in the campaign he made the plunge, ran for the Senate as an Anti-Nebraska Democrat, and was elected. The following winter ne put in nomination for the United States Senate Mr. Trumbull, and was one of the five steadfast men who voted for him until all the Whigs came to their support and elected their man. In 1856 he was Chairman of the Republican State Convention at Bloomington. He ran for Congress in 3859, but was defeated. In i860 he was Republican Presidential Elector for the State at large. In 1861 fle was appointed one of the five Delegates (all Re- publicans) sent by Illinois to the peace congress at Washington. When the civil conflict broke out, he offered his services to his country, and was elected Colonel of the J4th 111. Vol. Inf , and participated in the engagements at Island No. 10; at Farmington, where he skillfully extricated his command from a dangerous position ; at Stone River, where his division for several hours, Dec. 31, 1862, held the advance and stood like a rock, and for his gallantry there he was made Major General; at Chickamanga, where his and Van Cleve's divisions for two hours maintained their position when they were cut off by overpowering numbers. Under Gen. Sherman, he was assigned to the i4lh Army Corps and participated in the Atlanta campaign. At Peach-Tree Creek his prudence did much to avert disaster. In February, 1865, Gen. Palmer was as- signed to the military administration of Kentucky, which was a delicate post. That State was about half rebel and half Union, and those of the latter element were daily fretted by the loss of their slaves. He, who had been bred to the rules of common law, trembled at the contemplation of his extraordinary power over the persons and property of his fellow men, with which he was vested in his capacity as military Governor ; and he exhibited great caution in the execution of the duties of his post. Gen. Palmer was nominated for Governor of Illi- nois by the Republican State Convention which met at Peoria May 6, 1868, and his nomination would probably have been made by acclamation had he not oersistenily declared that he could not accept a can- didature for the office. The result of the ensuir.j; election gave Mr. Palmer a majority of 44,707 over John R. Eden, the Democratic nominee. On the meeting of the Legislature in January, 1869, the first thing to arrest public attention was that portion of the Governor's message which took broad State's rights ground. This and some minor points, which were mare in keeping with the Dema- cratic sentiment, constituted the entering wedge f jr the criticisms and reproofs he afterward received from the Republican party, and ultim.itely resulted in his entire aleniation from the latter element. The Legislature just referred to was noted for the intro- duction of numerous bills in the interest of private parties, which were embarrassing to the Governor. Among the public acts passed was that which limited railroad charges for passenger travel to a maximum of three cents per mile ; and it was passed over the Governor's veto. Also, they passed, over his veto, the "tax-grabbing law" to pay r'.ilror.d subscriptions, the Chicago Lake Front bill, etc. The new State Constitution of 1870, far superior to the old, was a peaceful " revolution" which took place during Gov. Palmer's term of office. The suffering caused by the great Chicago Fire of October, 187 1, was greatly alleviated by the prompt responses of his excellency. Since the expiration of Gov. Palmers's term, he has been somewhat prominent in Illinois politics, and has been talked of by many, especially in the Dem- ocratic party, as the best man in the State for a United States Senator. His business during life has been that of the law. Few excel him in an accurate appreciation of the depth and scope of its principles- The great number of his able veto messages abun- dantly testify not only this but also a rare capacity to point them out. He is a logical and cogent reasoner and an interesting, forcible and convincing speaker, though not fluent or ornate. Without brilliancy, his dealings are rather with facts and ideas than with appeals to passions and prejudices. He is a patriot and a statesman of very high order. Physically he is above the medium height, of robust frame, ruddy complexion and sanguine-nervous temperament. He has a largo cranial development, is vivacious, social in disposition, easy of approach, unostentatious in his iiabits of life, democratic in his habits and manners and is a true American in his fundamental principle* of statesmanship. ^r^r^tn^Ji^^ if A£^ly^O^J-<4./6^ Gc' VERNORS OF ILLINOIS. 171 "■^^^ ;y ^'?;^'g^'^t^'^t?^'^tjfi)tiga'j&^ ■ » s e ■sas- mw OHN LOWRiE BEVER- IDGE, Governor 187 3-6, was born in the town of Green- wich, Washington Co., N. Y., July 6, 1824. His parents were George and Ann Bever- ^-r'^^ idge. His father's parents, An- drew and Isabel Bcveridge, be- fore their marriage emigrated 1 from Scotland just before the \| Revolutionary War, settling in ^ Washington County. His father was the eldest of eight brothers, the younpest of whom was 60 years of age when tlie first one of the num- liL-r died. His mother's parents, James and Agnes Hoy, emigrated from Scotland at the close of the Revolutionary War, settling also in Washington Co., N. Y., with their fi sl-born, whose " native land " w.;s the wild ocean. His parents ar.d grandparents lived beyond the time allotted to man, their average age being over 8o years. They belonged to the " Asso- ciate Church," a seceding Presbyterian body of America from the old Scotch school ; and so rig d was the training of young Beveridge that he never heard a sermon from any other minister except that of his own denomination until he was in his 19th year. Later in life he became a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, which relation he still holds. Mr. Beveridge received a good common-school ed- ucation, but his parents, who could obtain a livelihood only by rigid economy and industry, could not send him away to college. He was raised upon a farm, and was in his i8th year when the family removed to De Kalb County, this State, when that section was very sparsely settled. Chicago had less than 7,000 inhabitants. In this wild West he continued as a farm laborer, teaching school during the winter months to supply the means of an education. In the fill of 1842 he attended one term at the academy at Granville, Putnam Co., 111., and subsequently several terms at the Rock River Seminary at Mount Morris, Ogle Co., 111., completing the academic course. At this time, the fall of 1845, his parents and brothers were anxious to have him go to college, even though he had not money sufficient; but, njt willing to bur- den the family, he jiacked his trunk and with only ^40 in money started South to seek liis fortune 172 JOHN L. BE VE RIDGE. Poor, alone, without friends and influence, he thus entered upon the battle of life. First, he taught school in Wilson, Overton and Jackson Cos., Tenn., in which experience he under- went considerable mental drill, both in book studies and in the ways of the world. He read law and was admitted to the Bar, in the South, but did not learn to love the institution of slavery, although he ad- mired many features of Southern character. In De- cember, 1847, he returned North, and Jan. 20, 1848, he married Miss Helen M. Judson, in the old Clark- Street M. E. church in Chicago, her father at that time being Pastor of the society there. In the spring of 1848 he returned with his wife to Tennessee, where his two children, Alia May and Philo Judson, were born. in the fall of 1849, through the mismanagement of an associate, he lost what litde he had accumu- lated and was left in debt. He soon managed to earn means to pay his debts, returned to De Kalb Co., 111., and entered upon the practice of his pro- fession at Sycamore, the county seat. On arrival from the South he had but one-quarter of a dollar in money, and scanty clothing and bedding for himself and family. He borrowed a little money, practiced ^aw, worked in public offices, kept books for some of the business men of the town, and some railroad en- gineering, till the spring of 1854, when he removed to Evanston, 12 miles north of Chicago, a place then but recently laid out, under the supervision of the Northwestern University, a Methodist institution. Of the latter his father-in-law was then financial agent and business manager. Here Mr. Beveridge prospered, and the next year (1855) opened a law office in Chicago, where he found the battle some- what hard; but he persevered with encouragement and increasing success. Aug. 12, 1861, his law partner. Gen. John F. Farnsworth, secured authority to raise a regiment of cavalry, and authorized Mr. Beveridge to raise a company for it. He succeeded in a few days in rais- ing the company, of course enlisting himself along with it. The regiment rendezvoused at St. Charles, HI., was mustered in Sept. 18, and on its organiza- tion Mr. B. was elected Second Major. It was at- tached, Oct. II, to the Eighth Cavalry and to the Army of the Potomac. He served with the regiment until November, 1863, participating in some 40 bat- tles and skirmishes : was at Fair Oaks, the seven days fight around Richmond, Fredericksburg, Chancellors- ville and Gettysburg. He commanded the regiment the greater part of the summer of 1 863, and it was while lying in camp this year that he originated the policy of encouraging recruits as well as the fighting capac- ity of the soldiery, by the wholesale furlough system It worked so well that many other officers adopted it. In the fall of this year he recruited another com- pany, against heavy odds, in January, 1864, was commissioned Colonel of the 17th 111. Cav., and skirmished around in Missouri, concluding with the reception of the surrender of Gen. Kirby Smith's army in Arkansas. In 1865 he commanded various sub-districts in the Southwest. He was mustered out Feb. 6, 1866, safe from the casualties of war and a stouter man than when he first enlisted. His men idolized him. He then returned to Chicago, to practice law, with no library and no clientage, and no political experi- ence except to help others into office. In the fall of 1866 he was elected Sheriff of Cook County, serving one term; next, until November, [870, he practiced law and closed up the unfinished business of his office. He was then elected State Senator; in No- vember, 187 1, he was elected Congressman at large; in November, 1872, he was elected Lieutenant Gov- ernor on the ticket with Gov. Oglesby; the latter be- ing elected to the U. S. Senate, Mr. Beveridge became Governor, Jan. 21, 1873. Thus, inside of a few weeks, he was Congressman at large. Lieutenant Governor and Governor. The principal events oc- curring during Gov. Beveridge's administration were: The completion of the revision of the statutes, begun in 1869; the partial success of the "farmers' move- ment;" " Haines' Legislature " and Illinois' exhibit at the Centennial. Since the close of his gubernatorial term ex-Gov Beveridge has been a member of the firm of Bever- idge & Dewey, bankers and dealers in commercial paper at 7 1 Dearborn Street (McCormick Block), Chicago, and since November, 1881, he has also been Assistant United States Treasurer- office in the Government Building. His residence is still at Ev- anston. He has a brother and two sisters yet residing in De Kalb County — James H. Beveridge, Mrs. Jennet Henry and Mrs. Isabel French. I GO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS. 175 Shelby M, €vllom. HELBY M. CULLOM, Gover- nor 1877-83,15 tlie sixth child of the' late Richard N. CuUom, and was born Nov. 22, 1829, in Wayne Co., Ky., where his fa- ther then resided, and whence both the lUinois and Tennessee branches of the faiiily originated. In the following year the family emi- grated to the vicinity of Washington, Tazewell Co., 111., when that section was very sparsely settled. They lo- cated on Deer Creek, in a grove at the time occupied by a paity of In- dians, attracted there by the superior hunting and fishing afforded in that vicinity. The following winter was known as the " hard winter," the snow being very deep and lasting and the weather severely cold; and the family had to subsist mainly on boiled corn or hominy, and some wild game, for several weeks. In the course of time Mr. R. N. Cullom became a prom- inent citizen and was several times elected to the Legislature, both before and after the removal of the car>ital from Vandalia to Springfield. He died about '«73- Until about 19 years of age young Cullom grew up to agricultural pursuits, attending school as he had •DDortunity during tiie winter. Within this time, *v;ever, he spent several months teaching- ^rhool. and in the following summer he "broke prairie "with an ox team for tlie Lcij^hbors With the money o!)- tained by these various ventures, he undertook a course of study at the Rock River Seminary, a Methodist institution at Mt. Morris, Ogle County: but the sudden change to the in-door life of a stu- dent told severely upon his health, and he was taken home, being considered in a hopelesj condition. While at Mt. Morris lie heard Hon. E. B Washburne make his first speech. On recovering health, Mr. Cullom concluded to study law, under the instruction of Abraham Lincoln, at Springfield, who had by this time attained some notoriety as an able lawyer; but the latter, being ab- sent from his office most of the time, advised Mr. Cullom to enter the office of Stuart & Edwards. After about a year of study there, however, his health failed again, and he was obliged to return once more to out-door life. Accordingly he bought hogs for packing, for A. G. Tyng, in Peoria, and while he re- gained his health he gained in purse, netting $400 in a few weeks. Having been admitted to the Bar, he weat to Springfield, where he was soon elected City Attorney, on the .\nti-Nebraska ticket. ^ In 1856 he ran on the Fillmore ticket as a Presi- dential Elector, and, although failing to be elected as such, he was at the same time elected a Representa- tive in the Legislature from Sangamon County, by a local coalition of the American and Republican par- lies. On the organization of the House, he received the vote of tlie Fillmore men for Speaker. Practicir^ 176 SHE LB Y M. CULLOM. law until iS6o, he was again elected to the Legisla- ture, as a Republican, while the county went Demo- cratic on the Presidential ticket. In January follow- ing he was elected Speaker, probably the youngest man who had ever presided over an Illinois Legis- lature. After the session of iS6i, he was a candidate for the State Constitutional Convention called for that year, but was defeated, and thus escaped the disgrace of being connected with that abortive parly scheme to revolutionize the State Government. In 1862 he was a candidate for the State Senate, but was defeated. The same year, however, he was ap- pointed by President Lincoln on a Government Commission, in company with Gov. Boutwell of Massachusetts and Cnarles A. Dana, since of the New York Sun, to investigate the affairs of the Quartermaster's and Commissary Departments at Cairo. He devoted several months to this duty. In 1864 he enteted upon a larger political field, being nominated qs the Republican candidate lor Congress from the Eighth (Springfield) District, in opposition to the incumbent, JohnT. Stuart, who had been elected in 1862 by about 1,500 majority over Leonard Swett, then of Bloomington, now of Chicago. The result was the election of Mr. Cullom in Novem- ber following by a majority of 1,785. In 1866 he was re-elected to Congress, over Dr. E. S. Fowler, by the magnificent majority of 4,103 ! In i868 he was again a candidate, defeating the Hon. B. S. Edwards, another of his old preceptors, by 2,884 votes. During his first term in Congress he served on the Committee on Foreign Affairs and Expenditures in the Treasury Department; in his second term, on the Committees on Foreign Affairs and on Territories ; and in his third term he succeeded Mr. Ashley, of Ohio, to the Chairmanship of the latter. He intro- duced a bill in the House, to aid in the execution of law in Utah, which caused more consternation among the Mormons than any measure had previously, but which, though it passed the House, failed to pass the Senate. The Republican Convention which met May 25, 1876, nominated Mr. Cullom for Governor, while the other contestant was Gov. Beveridge. For Lieuten- ant-Governor they nominated Andrew Shuman, editor of the Chicago Journal. For the same offices the Democrats, combining with the Anti-Monopolists, Dlaced in nomination Lewis Steward, a wealthy farmer and manufacturer, and A. A. Glenn. The result of the election was rather close, Mr. Cullom obtaining only 6,800 majority. He was inaugurated Jan. 8, 1877. Great depression prevailed in financial circles at this time, as a consecjuence of the heavy failures of 1 87 3 and afterward, the effect of which had seemed to gather force from that time to the end of Gov. Cullom's first administration. This unspeculative period was not calculated to call forth any new- issues, but the Governor's energies were at one time put to task to quell a spirit of insubordination that had been begun in Pittsburg, Pa., among the laboring classes, and transferred to Illinois at Chicago, East St. Louis and Braidwood, at which places laboring men for a short time refused to work or allow others to work. These disturbances were soon quelled and the wheels of industry again set in motion. In May, 1880, Gov. Cullom was re-nominated by the Republicans, against Lyman Trumbull, by the Democrats; and although the former party was some- what handicapped in the campaign by a zealous faction opposed to Grant for President and to Grant men for office generally, Mr. Cullom was re-elected by about 314,565, to 277,532 forthe Democratic State ticket. The Greenback vote at the same tmie was about 27,000. Both Houses of the Legislature again became Republican, and no representative of the Greenback or Socialist parties were elected. Gov. Cullom was inaugurated Jan. 10, 1S81. In his mes- sage he announced that the last dollar of the State debt had been provided for. March 4, 1883, the term of David Davis as United States Senator from Illinois expired, and Gov. Cul- lo n was chosen to succeed him. This promoted Lieutenant-Governor John M. Hamilton to the Gov- ernorship. Senator Cullom's term in the United States Senate will expire March 4, 18S9. As a practitioner oflaw Mr. C. has been a member of the firm of Cullom, Scholes & Mather, al Spring- fit:ld ; and he has also b^en President of the State National Bank. He has been married twice, — the first time Dec. ii:, 1855, to Miss Hannah Fisher, by whom he had t\io daughters; and the second tipie May 5, 1863, to Julia Fisher. Mrs. C is a member of the Method- isl Episcopal Church, with which religious body Mr. C. is also in sympathy. i L i I GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS. '79 >^:?^1Sm:2^^ 'S^;;S^?"S*$;;:^>»s"?*;;;^^ m\\ ^«s-^^^ OHN MARSHALL HAMIL- j.., TON, Governor 188^-5, was born May 28, 1847, in a log house upon a farm about two Vf^^ miles from Richwood, Union County, Ohio. His father was Samuel Hamilton, the eldest son of Rev. Wm. Hamilton, who, to- gether with his brother, the Rev. Samuel Hamilton, was among the early pioneer Methodist preachers in Ohio. The mother of the subject of this sketch was, before her marriage, Mrs. Nancy McMotris, who was born and raised in Fauquier or Lou- doun County, Va., and related to the two large families of Youngs and Marshalls, well known in that commonwealth; and from the latter family name was derived the middle name of Gov. Hamilton. In March, 1854, Mr. Hamilton's tather sold out his Utile pioneer forest home in Union County, O., and, loading his few household effects and family (of six children) into two emigrant covered wagons, moved to Roberts Township, Marshall Co., 111., being 21 days on the route. Swamps, unbridged streams and innumerable hardships and privations met them on their way. Their new home had been previously selected by the father. Here, after many long years of toil, they succeeded in payii.g for the land and jiakii.g a conifortaM*' home. John was, of course, brought up to hard manual labor, with no schooling except three or four months in the year at a common country school. However, he evmced a capacity and taste for a high order of self-education, by studying or reading what books he could borrow, as the family had but very few in the house. • Much of his study he prosecuted by the light of a log fire in the old-fashioned chimney place. The financial panic of 1857 caused the family to come near losing their home, to pay debts ; but the father and two sons, William and John, "buckled to" and perse- vered in hard labor and economy until they redeemed their place from the mortgage. When the tremendous e.xcitement of the political campaign of i860 reached the neighborhood of Rob- erts Township, young Hamilton, who had been brought up in the doctrine of anti-slavery, took a zeal- ous part in favor of Lincoln's election. Making special efforts to procure a little money to buy a uniform, he joined a company of Lincoln Wide-Awakes at Mag- nolia, a village not far away. Directly after the ensuing election it became evident that trouble would ensue with the South, and this Wide-Awake company, like many others throughout the country, kept up its organization and transformed itself into a military company. During the ensuing summer they met often for drill and became proficient ; but when they offered themselves for the war, young Hamilton was rejected on account of his youth, he being then but 14 years of age. During the winter of 1863-4 'le attended an academy at Henry, Marshall County JOHN MARSHALL HAMILTON. and in the following May he again enlisted, for the fourth time, when he was placed in the 141st III. Vol Inf., a regiment then being raised at Elgin, 111., for the loo-day service. He took with him 13 other lads from his neighborhood, for enlistment in the service. This regiment operated in Southwestern Kentucky, for about five months, under Gen. Paine. The following winter, 1864-5, ^''- Hamilton taught school, and during the two college years 1865-7, h'^ went through three years of the curriculum of the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware, Ohio. The third year he graduated, the fourth in a class of 46, in the classical department. In due time he received the degree of M. A. For a few months he was the Principal of Marshall " College " at Henry, an acad- emy under the auspices of the M. E. Church. By this time he had commenced the study of law, and after earning some money as a temporary Professor of Latin at the Illinois Wesleyan University at Bloomington, he entered the law office of Weldon, Tipton & Benjamin, of that city. Each member of this firm has since been distinguished as a Judge. Admitted to the Bar in May, 1870, Mr. Hamilton was given an interest in the same firm, Tipton hav- ing been elected Judge. In October following he formed a partnership with J. H. Rowell, at that time Prosecuting Attorney. Their business was then small, but they increased it to very large proportions, practicing in all grades of courts, including even the U. S. Supreme Court, and this partnership continued u:il)roken until Feb. 6, 1883, when Mr. Hamilton was sworn in as E.xecutive of Illinois. On the 4th of March following Mr. Rowell took his seat in Con- gress. In July, 187 1, Mr. Hamilton married Miss Helen M. V/illiams, the daughter of Prof. Wni. G. Williams, Professor of Greek in the Ohio Wesleyan University. Mr. and Mrs. H. have two daughters and one son. In 1876 Mr. Hamilton was nominated by the Re- publicans for the State Senate, over other and older competitors. He took an active part '' on the stump " in tlie campaign, for the success of iiis party, and was elected by a majority of 1,640 over his Democratic- Greenback opponent. In the Senate he served on the Committees on Judiciary, Revenue, State Insti- tutions, Appropriations, Education, and on Miscel- lany ; and during the contest for the election of a U. S. Senator, the Republicans endeavoring to re- elect John A. Logan, he voted for the war chief on every ballot, even alone when all the other Republi- cans had gone over to the Hon. E. B. Lawrence and the Democrats and Independents elected Judge David Davis. .At this session, also, was passed the first Board of Health and Medical Practice act, of which Mr. Hamilton was a champion, agains* c; much opposition that the bill was several times " laid on the table." Also, this session authorized the location and establishment of a southern peri- tentiary, which was fixed at Chester. In the session of 1879 Mr. Hamilton was elected President //■(? /t'wz. of the Senate, and was a zealous supporter of John A. Logan for the U. S. Senate, who was this time elected without any trouble. In May, 1880, Mr. Hamilton was nominated on the Republican ticket for Lieutenant Governor, his principal competitors before the Convention being Hon. Wm. A. James, ex-Speaker of the House of Representatives, Judge Robert Bell, of '*^abash County, Hon. T. T. Fountain, of Perry County, and Hon. M. M. Saddler, of Marion County. He engaged actively in the campaign, and his ticket was elected by a majority of 41,200. As Lieutenant Governor, he presided almost continuously over the Senate in the 32d General Assembly and during the early days of the 33d, until he succeeded to the Governorship. When the Legislature of 1883 elected Gov. Cullom to the United States Senate, Lieut. Gov. Hamilton succeeded him, under the Constitution, taking the oath of office Feb. 6, 1883. He bravely met all the annoyances and embarrassments incidental upon taking up another's administration. The principal events with which Gov. Hamilton was connected as the Chief Executive of the State were, the mine dis- aster at Braidwood, the riots in St. Clair and Madison Counties in May, 1883, the appropriations for the State militia, the adoption of the Harper high-licensj liquor law, the veto of a dangerous railroad bill, etc. The Governor was a Delegate at large to the National Republican Convention at Chicago in June, 1884, where his first choice for President w.is John A. Logan, and second choice Chester A. .Arthur; but Ire afterward zealously worked for the election of Mr. Blaine, true to his party. Mr. Hamilton's term as Governor expired Ja.;. 30, 1885, when the great favorite " Dick " Oglesby was inaugurated. I ^**v 1 ( GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS. 183 '^USEPII WILSON FIFER. This V|: distinguished gentleman was |,;^^|»« elected Governor of Illinois "^f:)'®jjP% 'ill" November 6, 1888. He was p(>liularly known during the campaign as "Private Joe." He had served with great devotion to his country during the Re- bellion, in the Thirty-third Illinois Infantry. A native of Virginia, he was born in 1840. His parents, John and Mary (Daniels) Fifer, were American born, though of German de- scent. His father was a brick and stone mason, and an old Henry Clay Whig in polities. John and Mary Fifer had nine children, o/ whom Joseph was the sixth, and naturally, with so large a family, it was all the father could do to keep the wolf from the door, to say nothing of giving his children any- thing like good educational advantages. Joseph attended sciiool for a while in Yirgina, but it was not a good school, and when his fatlier removed to the West, in 18.57, Joseph had not ad- vanced much further than the "First Reader." Oursuliject was sixteen then and suffered a great misfortune in the loss of his mother. After the death of Mrs. Fifer, which occurred in Missouri, the family returned to Virgina, but remained only a short time, as during the same year Mr. Fifer came to Illinois. He settled in McLean County and started a brickyard. Here Joseph and his brothers were jiut to work. The elder Mr. Fifer soon bought a farm near Bloomington and began life as an agriculturist. Here Joe worked and attended the neighbciring school. lie alternated farm-work, and brick-Jaying, going to the district school for the succeeding few years. It was all work and no play for Joe, yet it by no means made a dull boy of him. All the time he was thinking of the great world outside, of which he had caught a glimpse when coming from Virginia, yet he did not know just how he was going to get out into it. He could not feel that the woods around the new farm and the log cabin, in which the family lived, were to hold him. Theopportunit}' to get out into tlie world was soon offered to jouug Joe. He traveled a dozen miles barefoot, in company with his brother George, and enlisted in Company C, Tliirty-lhird Illinois Infantry, he being then twenty years old. In a few daj's, the regiment was sent to Camp Butler, and then over into Missouri, and saw some vigor- ous service there. After a second time helping to chase Price out of Missouri, the Thirty-third Regi- 184 JOSEPH W. FIFER. ment went down to Milliken 's Bend, and for several weeks "Private Joe" worked on Grant's famous ditch. Tlie regiment then joined the forces oper- ating against Port Gibson and Vicksburg. Joe was on guard dutj' in the front ditches when the flag of surrender was run up on the 4th of July, and stuck tlie bayonet of his gun into the embank- ment and went into the city with the vanguard of Union soldiers. The next day, July 5, the Thirty-third joined the force after Johnston, who had been threatening Grant's rear; and finally an assault was made on him at Jackson, Miss. In this charge ''Private Joe" fell, terribly wounded. He was loading his gun, when a minie-ball struck him and passed entirely through his body. He was regarded as mortally wounded. His brother, George, who had been made a Lieutenant, proved to be the means of sav- ing his life. The Surgeon told him that unless he had ice his brother could not live. It was flf t^^ miles to the nearest point where ice could be obtained, and the roads were rough. A comrade, a McLean County man, who had been wounded, offei-ed to make the trip. An ambulance was secured and the brother soldier started on the journey. He re- turned with the ice, but the trip, owing to the roughness of the road, was very hard on him. Af- ter a few montlis' careful nursing, Mr. Fifer was able to come home. The Thirty-third came home on a furlough, and when the b03'S were ready to return to the tented field, young Fifer was ready to go with them, for he was determined to finish his term of three years. He was mustered out in Oct- ober, 1864, having been in the service three years and two months. "Private Joe" came out of the army a tall, tan- ned, and awkward young man of twenty-four. About all he possessed was ambition to be some- body- — and pluck. Though at an age when most men liave finished their college course, the young soldier saw that if he was to be anybody he must have an education. Yet he had no means to ena- ble him to enter school as most young men do. He was determined to have an education, however, and that to him meant success. For the following four years he struggled with his books. He en- tered Wesleyan University January 1, 1865. He was not a brilliant student, being neither at the head nor at the foot of his class. He was in great earnest, however, studied hard and came forth with a well-stored and disciplined mind. Immediately after being graduated, he entered an office at Bloomington as a law student. He had previously read law a little, and as he continued to work hard, with the spur of poverty and prompt- ings of ambition ever with him, he was ready to hang out his professional shingle in 1869. Being trustworthy, he soon gathered about him some in- fluential friends. In 1871 he was elected Corpora- tion Counsel of Bloomington. In 1872 he was elected State's Attorney of McLean County. This office he held eight years, when he took his seat in the State Senate. He served for four years. His ability to perform abundance of hard work made him a most valued member of the Legislature. Mr. Fifer was married in 1870 to Gertie, daugh- ter of William J. Lewis, of Bloomington. Mr. Fifer is six feet in height and is spare, weighing only one hundred and fifty pounds. He has a swarthy com- plexion, keen black eyes, quick movement, and pos- sesses a frank and sympathetic nature, and natur- lly m.akes friends wherever he goes. During the late gubernatorial campaign his visits throughout the State proved a great power in his behalf. His faculty of winning the confidence and good wishes of those with whom he comes in personal contact is a source of great popularity, especially during a political battle. As a speaker he is fluent, his lan- guage is good, voice clear and agreeal)le, and man- ner forcible. His manifest earnestness in what he says, as well as his tact as a pulilic speaker, and his eloquent and forceful language, make him a most valuable campaign orator and a powerful pleader at the bar. At the Republican State Convention, held in May, 1888, Mr. Fifer was chosen as its candidate for Governor. He proved a popular nominee, and the name of "Private Joe" became familiar to eveiyone throughout the State. He waged a vigorous campaign, was elected by a good majority, and in due time assumed the duties of the Chief Jlxecutive of Illinois. FORD COUNTY, Illinois. ©£ • — -e noticed to the credit of T. D. Thomp- son and the good judgment of the citizens of Mel- vin, that j\Ir. Thompson has been continually a member of the Board of Directors since 1H74, a term of eighteen 3-ears of directorshi]i in the schools. The schools afford the very best of practical edu- cation, and tiie pupils, when they have finished under Mr. Foreman, can readily pass the teacliers' examination for a certificate, as well .as being fitted to enter well in schools of higher instruction. 4^ =4^ W A. CRANIJ.VLL, a well-known farmer of JT)!) Pella Township, residing on section 9, i^^ was born in Cook County, 111., in 184 9, i^0) and is a son of Herman Crandall, who was born in Vermont, September 5, 1812, and in 1824 removed to Franklin Count\-, N. Y. AV^hen a young man, he emigrated to Illinois and made a claim in Cook County. He married Lydia Bush- nell, and engaged in agricultural pursuits for a niimber of years. The land which he purchased at $1.25 per acre he sold at ¥80 per acre. He was a prominent citizen of the community and a suc- cessful f.armer. In politics, he was first a Whig and afterwards a Republican. His death occurred in Ford County, ]\Iarch 12, 1890. His wife is still living and makes her home in California. Further mention is made of these worthy people in the sketch of C. C. Crandall on another page of this work. Their family nnmliered eleven chil- dren: Abigail, who is now in California; Ruey, who is living in Danville, 111.; Mary, a resident of Nebraska; Martha, who is living in Cook County; C. C, who served in the Thirty-ninth Illinois Infantry- during the late war and is now a resident of Pella Township; Imogene, a resident of Blue Island, Cook County; H. A., of this sketch; George, who is living in "Will County; Eva, who makes her home in Wisconsin; Alfred, of Nebraska; and Benjamin, in Ford Count}', III. We now take >ip the personal history of our sub- ject, who spent the days of his boyhood and youth in the county of his nativity, remaining upon the home farm until twentj' years of age. The edu- cational advantages which he received were those afforded b^- the common schools. In 1869, he came to Fcjrd County and purchased the land on which he now resides. He afterward returned to Cook County, where he spent the years of 1874 and 1875, but since that time has made his home continuously in Pella Township, where he owns two hundred and forty-one acres of valuable land, which he improved from the raw prairie. It is well equipped with good buildings and all the accessories of a model farm, and the well-tilled fields j-ield to him a good income. In the autumn of 1870, Mr. Crandall was joined in wedlock with jNIary Riche, who was born in Cook County, her father being one of the earl}' settlers of that region and a contractor on the Wabash Canal. They have a family of three chil- dren: Aliigail, who was born in Cook County, in 1875; William, in 1883; and Mary, in 1885. The family is well known throughout the community and the members of the Crandall household rank high ill the social circles in which they move. iNIr. Crand.all is a member of the Masonic frater- nity of Piper Cit}-, and his wife is a member of the Presbyterian Church. He has Iteen a member of the Drainage Commission and has taken .an active ])art in all that pertains to the welfare and upbuilding of town and county. For nine yeare he has served as Township and Drainage Com- missioner, a fact which indicates his faithfulness and fidelity to duty. He cast his first Presidential vote for Aliraham Lincoln and has since been a supporter of the Republican party .and has often PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 195 sciverl as a dclcirate to its conventions. Mr. Cranrlall lias a wide acqu.aintance throiigliout tlie comnuinity, and for his sterling worth and integ- rity is held in hi"h regard. -=^m>-M-<^ H ENRY SPELLMEYER, who is engaged in V general farming on section 13, Peach Orcli- ard Townsiiip, was born about fifteen miles from AVinden, Westphalia, Germany, on the 1st of .Januaiy, 1840. His parents, Godfrey and Caroline Spellnieyer, are represented on another page of this work in connection with Charles Spell- nieyer. They were the parents of eight children, of whom our subject is the fifth. In t-ilting up the personal history of Henry Spcllmeyer, we present to our readers tlie life rec- ord of one of the well-known citizens of Ford County. He received no special advantages in his youth. His education was .acquired in the com- mon schools and he was reared to manhood upon his father's farm. His home continued to be in Prussia until ISr^S, when he came to America, crossing the Atlantic in a sailing-vessel, which reached harbor after forty-two days spent upon the ocean. Our subject did not tarry long in the East, but came at once to Illinois, locating in Put- nam county, where lie began work upon a farm by the month, and w.as thus employed for about five .years. On the 26th of March, 18G7, lie was united in marri.age with Miss Louise Kteinmann, who was born in l.S.'^T. within two miles of her huslmnd's native pl.ace. The same year of his marriage, he came to Ford County and purchased eighty acres of land on section 1.'5, Poach Orchard Township. To this he has since added a tract of four luindred and eighty acres, making in all an aggregate of five hundred and sixty acres. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Spell meyer has been blessed with a family of six children: Caroline died in her sixth year; Henry, who aids his father in the oper.ation of the home farm; Mary, wife of Gust. Seabert, a resident farmer of Wall Township; Charles, Jlinnie, and Lena, all of whom arc still with their parents. The family has a pleasant liome upon the farm before mentioned, and in social circles parents and children rank high. The father operates the home farm in connection with his sons, and has one of the valual:>le pl.aces in the community, its neat appearance indicating the thrift and enterprise of tlie owner, while its many improvements attest the fact that he is a practical and progressive agriculturist, thoroughly conver- sant with his business in all its details. He is fair and honest in all his dealings, and thereby has won the confidence and regard of those with whom he has been brought in contact. Mr. Spellnieyer exercises his right of fr.anchise in support of the Republican party, whose princi- ples he has advocated since he became a voter. He Iws never sought public office but h.as served as Road Commissioner. Himself and family are mem- bers of the German Lutheran Church, and among the worthy citizens of the community who have aided in the upbuilding and developement of the count}-^, he is numbered. eAPT. FRANK O. WALRICH, a member of the firm of Walrich A Parsons, general merchants of Piper City, was born in the Province of Hanover, Germany, Deceml)er 21, 1844, and is a son of Otto R. Walrich, a farmer by occupation, who served in the army of tlie Fatlici- land for three j'ears and married Margaret Hemp- ken, who was liorn and reared in the .same locality as her husband. AVith their five children, they sailed to America In April, 1857, and after nine weeks and two d.ays spent upon the bosom of the Atliintic, landed in New Orleans, whence they went up the river to Alton, III. In the spring of 18,'')8. they settled on a farm near Washburn, Woodford County, 111., and in 18.5'.> came to a farm near Chatsworth, which is still in possession of the fam- ily. The father died upon that farm and the mo- ther there still makes her home. In politics, he wiis a Republican and himself and wife were mem- bers of the Lutheran C'liurch. Their family num- bered twelve children, one of whom died in in- 196 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPmCAL RECORD. fancy. The Captain is the eldest; Fredericka is tlie wife of .John McKinncy, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work; Mary, wife of John Iliden, of Peoria, died in 1874; Tiionias resides in Piper City; Christina is the wife of G. W. Madden, a ijrain dealer and .lustice of the Peace of Charlotte, Livingston County; Magoie, wife of .Tames Kief, of Piper City; Hannah .1., widow of .Tesse I). Par- sons, is tlie (lartner of Ca[)t. Walrieh; Theresa, wife of F. Beckniann, of Cliatswortli, 111.; Cordelia, wife of M. IMadden, of SiiUivant, Livingston County; Elizabeth, wife of IL Flessner, who is living on the old home farm; and Willie, who was bitten by a rattlesnake at the age of four years and died in 1865. Our subject Iiegan his scliool life in Germany, attended for three montlis at Dorsey Station, Madison County, III., and in tlie winter of 1861-62 was a student in the scliools of Avoca, Livingston Count.y. Tliis completed his scliool life, for on the 21st of February, 1862, when a little past sixteen years of .age, he laid aside his books and entered his country's service as a member of Comp.any B, Sixty-fifth Illinois Infantry, which w.as organized at Camp Douglas, Chicago. He went on duty the first night after his arrival in camp, guarding prisoners captured at Ft. Donelson. In May, he was sent to Martinsbuig, Va., where he did guard duty until tlie 1st of September. The first engage- ments in which he participated were skirmishes in the vicinity of Falling Waters and Winchester, Va.; these were followed by the battle of Harper's Ferry, where he was captured but was soon after- ward paroUwl. Tiie succeeding winter was spent mostly at Camp Douglas, Ciiicago, and in the spring his regiment was transferred to Eastern Kentucky, where they saw much hard marching and service. In the fall, the troops prepared for the Knoxville campaign and the Sixt3--riftli Regiment suffered much during the siege of Knoxville. Mr. Walrieh re-enlisted, March 30, 1864, and went home on a veteran furlough. After his return, he took part in Sherman's campaign, and at the battle of Resaca the brigade lost live hundred men. He participated in the battles of Dallas Woods, Lost Mountain, Chat- tahoochee River, Atlanta, Rough and Ready Sta- tion, and Jonesboro; he then transferred to Pulaski, Tenn., to meet Gen. Hood. He was .also in the en- gagements at Columbia, Franklin and Naslu'ille, following Gen. Hood on his retreat as far .as Clif- ton, Tenn. Tiie Sixty-fifth w.as .sent by transports to Cincinnati, thence by rail to Washington and on to Annapolis, where the brigade assembled. Em- barking on transports, they proceeded, by w.ay of Fortress Monroe, to Ft. Fisher, experiencing the usual unpleasantness of a sea voy.age around Cape Hatteras. Capt. Walrieh was at the cai^ture of Ft. Anderson and subsequently took part in the en- gagement at Old Town Creek, when his regiment .and the Tweltli Kentucky captured a liriijade, in- cluding a battery; helped capture Wilmington and took part in the sharp engagement at Kinston, N. C, the last contlict in which he took part. Hav- ing marched from Goldsboro to Raleigli .and oji to Greensboro, where Johnston's army surrendered, the Fifty-sixth assisted in caring for the captured property. Capt. Walrieh w.as discharged July 1.3, 1865, and was mustered out of service at Camj) Douglas. Returning home, he resumed farming- He was a faitliful soldier, ever found at the post of duty, and his army record is one of wliich he may well be proud. On the 4th of August, 1870, Capt. Walrieh mar- ried Miss Sebrina C. Hamlin, daughter of Alonzo and Esther Hamlin, who came from Vermont to Illinois. With his wife, he came to Piper City and entered the employ of Mr. McKinney, a lumber and hardware merchant, with whom he remained three years, when, in 1873, he secured a positi(m with Conrow it Co., the successors to Montelius » > I > ? I ' I f I I I ROF. EDWARD H. MILLER, Principal of the public schools of Piper City, is a native of the llawkeye State. He was born near Burlington, Des Moines County, Iowa, on the 18th of July, 1864, and is a son of B. II. and Car- rie A. (Styer) Miller. His parents were natives of Pennsylvania and after their marriage removed to Iowa, in 1845, locating in Burlington, where the father followed bis trade of milling. His death occurred at the age of thirty-three years, and his wife also died when young. They were the par- ents of four children, but the eldest, Mrs. Alice A. Ballard, died m Burlington; II. II., who was edu- cated in Burlington, is now Professor of Mathe- matics in a business college of California; our sub- ject is the next younger, and J. E., who completes the family, is attending school in Iowa. Prof. Miller was a lad of only fourteen years when his parents died, since which time he has made his own way in the world, being entirely dependent on his own efforts. He went to La Salle County, where he worked by the month on a stock farm near Mendota for six mouths, and through the re- mainder of the year he attended school. He was desirous of securing a good education, and in order to do this he had to earn the money necessary to pay his expenses. He pursued a four-years' clas- sical course in the Normal School of Dixon, 111., 202 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRArillCAL RECORD. from which he was graduated in 1886, and then engaged in teaching for two years in Mendota, be- ing assistant Principal of the High School. In 188'.), he went to Paxtou where lie secured a posi- tion as Professor of Mathematics in the Rice Col- legiate Institute, serving as such for three ji^ears, when he came to Piper City and has since been Principal of its schools. Prof. Miller was married on ilie 6th of October, 1887, in Mendota, 111., IMiss Marcia M. Freeland becoming his wife. She is a native of that place and a daughter of John M. and Sarah Freeland, residents of Colfax, 111. Two children grace the union of our subject and his wife, a son and daughter: Stafford De Witt and Margaret. Prof, and Mrs. Miller are both members of the Presbyte- rian Church and are prominent people in this community and held in high esteem by their many friends. In his social relations, the Professor is an Odd Fellow and, in i)olitics, votes with the Republican party, but has never been an oflice-seeker. He is an intelligent, .iljle young man, a most suc- cessful instructor, and has won general favor in the communities where he has been employed as teacher. He may well be termed a self-made man, for since a very early age he has made his own way in life, never having a cent but what he earned himself. The industrj', enterprise and perseverance which have characterized his career argue well for a successful future. ,,.., LFRED PHILLIPS, who owns and operates (^'Ol ninety acres of land on section 12, Peach Orchard Township, has the honor of be- ing a native of Illinois. He was born Januar}' 15, 1857, near Caledonia, Putnam Couut}', and is a worthy representative of one of the pio- neer families of that county. His parents were George and Jane (Lights) Phillips. His father was born in England and when thirteen 3'ears of age came to the United States. His mother was born in Chester County, Pa. They came to Illinois in 1837, locating near jMagnolia, Putnam Count}-, where Mr. Phillips built a tlouring-mill on the bank of Sandy Creek. He also built a sawmill on Clear Creek. Until 1863, he made his home in that county and then removed to La Salle County, where he purchased a farm, upon which he made his home one year. The year 1864 witnessed his arrival in Ford County. He purchased all of sec- tion 12, Peach Orchard Township, and in the fall of the same year bought one hundred and sixty acres more on section 16. LTpon his farm, he made his home until his death in 1869. In 1866, he served his township as Justice of the Peace. He was a member of the Methodist Church and of the Odd Fellows' fraternity. Mrs. Phillips died in 1865. The family numbered seven children: Catherine, wife of John Tliackary, a farmer residing in Peach Orchard Township; Jane, wife of George II. AVar- ner, of Normal, 111.; Mary, deceased, wife of Will- iam Baxter; George, who is living in Slelvin, 111.; Alfred, of this sketch; Susan, wife of Frank Thomp- son, a retired farmer residing in Melvin, and Abra- ham L., an attorney at law of Gibson City. We now take up the personal history of our subject, who in his youth attended the district schools and acquired a practical English education. He began life for himself in 1875, when eighteen years of age. He engaged in farming for himself for two 3'ears, after which he worked as a farm hand by the month. Throughout his entire life, he followed agi'icultural pursuits and has been very successful in his business dealings. After his mar- riage, he removed to the farm on which he has since resided, and in connection with its cultiva- tion carries on stock-raising. His landed posses- sions are quite extensive. He owns ninety-eight and one-half acres in his home farm, eighty acres on section 8, Peach Orchard Township, a like amount iu Dix Township and one hundred and twenty acres in Wall Township. Sei)tember 29, 1879. Mr. Phillips married Miss Sarah, daughter of John and Lizzie Brooks, and they began their domestic life upon the farm which is still their home. Their union has been blessed with one daughter, Edna, who was born January 23, 1884. The parents are highly respected peo- ple of this communitj- and have many warm friends. In his political atliliations, Mr. Phillips is a Republican. i 1 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 205 I ON. ALFRED SAMPLE, Circuit Judge of the Eleventh .hulieial District of Illinois, has won honorable distinction in the line !s£)) of his profession and well deserves repre- sentation in this volume. A native of Ohio, he was horn in Butler County. November 27, 1846. His parents were .James and Jane (Beard) Sample. The father was a native of Kentucky and the mother of \'irginia. The father was a farmer and stock-dealer. With his fanuly he removed from Ohio to Livingston County, 111., in 1857, and was a resident of that and McLean County until his death, which occurred April 20, 1883. Ilis wife, the mother of our subject, a woman possessed of many excellencies of character, survived her lius- liand until April 13, 1892. Alfred Sample came to Illinois with his parents when eleven years of age and, when not attending school, was employed in agricultural pursuits on the home farm. November 24, 1863, when but sixteen years of age, he enlisted for the late war as a mem- ber of Company G, One Hundred and Twenty- ninth Illinois Infantry, and immediately went into active service. His regiment was assigned to Sherman's Army and participated in the Atlanta campaign. At the battle of Resaca, Ga., May 15, 1864, the young soldier of wliom we are writing was severely, and at that time su|)posed to be mor- tally, wt)unded, being shot in the breast and through both arms. Thus unBtted for duty, he received an honorable disciiarge I)eceml)cr 6, 1864, on account of Ins wounds received on the field of battle. He carries with him through life a crippled arm as a memento of the so-called ''late unpleas- antness between the States." (Jn returning from the war, Mr. Samiile became a student in Eureka College, where he pursued his studies for three years, after which he entered Monmouth College, taking a special course in each, and giving particular attention to the classics and mathematics. While at college, he taught select school several terras during vacations and was engaged in teaching schooJ for one year after leaving Monmouth College. He then entered upon the study of law under the preeoptorship of the Hon. Robert G. Ingersoll, tiie famous Ameri- can orator and attorney at law of Washington, 9 D. C, then a jtrominent lawyer of Illinois and a resident of Peoria. In 1871, after the regular examination, Mr. Sain[jle was admitted to the Bar and that same year openeil an ollice at Paxton, where he entered upon a successful jji-actice of his profession. His talent and ability soon won for him an honorable position in the Bar of Eastern Illinois. In politics. Judge Sample is a Republican, but he has never sought or desired piominence in the line of political distinction, but has [Jieferred to de- vote his energies to the practice of his profession, and to .accept such preferment as is the legitimate outgrowth of success in that direction. The only purel}' political position he has been known to fill was that of Presidential elector in the campaign of 1880, when James A. (iarfield was chosen Presi- dent. He has served as State Attorney for eight years. City Attorney of Paxton for four years, and in June, 1885, was nominated and elected with- out opposition to the honorable position of Judge of the Eleventh Judicial District of Illinois. After serving a term of six years, he was again nomin- ated and elected for the succeeding term without opposition. The fact of Judge Sample being the unanimous choice of the citizens of that district on both occasions speaks volumes in his praise and is a compliment of which he m.ay well be jiioikL The Eleventh Judicial District of Illinois includes within its limits the counties of Livingston, Kan- kakee, Iroquois, McLean and Ford, and Judge Sample's associates are Judges Charles R. Starr and Thomas F. Tipton. In June, 1891, Judge Sample was appointed to the Appellate Bench of the Fourth District of Illinois, which position he holds at the present time. On the fifth of September, 1876, the Judge was mariied to Miss E'lorence A. Cook, a daughter of Col. H. D. Cook, a well-known and piomincnt citizen of Illinois, a sketch of whom a|)pcars else- where in this work. The lady was born in Cappa, Woodford County, 111. .Judge and Mrs. Sample have two daughters: Florence I. and Lois A., both born in Paxton. Socially, Judge Sample is a Ma- son and a member of the Grand Army of the Re- public. He belongs to Paxton Lodge No. 416, A. F. & A. M.; Ford Chapter No. 113, R. A. M.; Mt. 206 PORTRAIT AND EJOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Olivet ConiTnanclcry No. 38, K. T., and was in the j'car 1878 the Grand Orator of the Masonic (4 rand Lodge of the State of Illinois. He is also a mem- ber of Paxton Post No. 387, G. A. K. Tlie personal popularity of the Jndge has grown with the yeais of his service in a judicial capacity. He is comparatively a young man .and has the physical strength to hold court until the work on the docket is disposed of, not having lost a day on account of illness in about seven years. He li.as the executive ability to dispatch business with rapidity and without any undue haste, and his career as a lawyer has been successful from the start. He is studious by habit, possessing quick per- ceptive faculties and a mind well adapted to the in- tellectual profession of his choice. Asa judge, his rulings have ever been fair and impartial, so that lawyers and litigants interested feel at the conclu- sion that they have been fairly and impartially treated. In manner. Judge .Sample is unassuming, yet dignified, cordial and aflfable, gifted as a con- versationalist and always good company'. He has won his success in life by hard study and earnest application to business, and is essentially a self- made man. He is the owner of valuable tracts of land and has recenth' erected at Paxton a very comfortable and modern residence, which he de- signed for a permanent home. Several years prior to his elevation to the bencli, .Judge Sample distinguished himself by the able and successful manner in which he conducted suits against railroad companies to eomiiel tlie adoption of the legal rate of three cents a mile fare and to prevent the annoyance and loss to the traveling public of tlie illegal rate of four cents. This laih'oad litigation, which was of public interest at the time, attracted general attention and tlie marked sucttess attend- ing ihe efforts of Judge Sample won for him much favorable comment and well-merited praise. VILLIAM J. WILSON, president of the private banking house of Mattlnson, Wil- son & Co., of Gibson City, 111., is a na- tive of Clarke County, Ohio, and was born on the .29th of June, 1838. His parents, Washington and IMary A. (Forman) Wilson, were from Ohio. His father's birth occurred on the 18th of Octo- ber, 1811, near Fairfield, Greene County, and the mother was born in Clarke County. They were married May 22, 183(3, and lived together as lius- band and wife for nearly lialf ii century, when called to their fin.al rest. Wasliington Wilson died at his home in Si)ringfield, Ohio, on Sunday, April 2G, 188."), at tlie age of seventy-three years and seven months. His wife i)assed away on the 5th of Maj' following, surviving her husband only nine days. They had joined the Christian Church together in 1839, and remained worthy and con- sistent members of that society to the close of their lives. It is said of them that they were re- markably adapted to e.acli other and were pos- sessed of noble traits of char.icter. Michael Wilson, the father of AVashington Wil- son, was a soldier of the War of 1812, and died soon after his return from the war from tlie effects of exposure while in the service. His widow re- moved to Harmony Township, and later made her home with her son Washington in Springfield, where she died in 1880, at the advanced age of ninetj--two years. Washington and Mary A. AVilson were the par- ents of eleven children: Michael, William J., George W., Harrison, John, Addison; Luther, de- ceased; Nancy T., Harriet; Mary A., deceased, was the wife of Dr. Strain; Flora is now Mrs. Dr. Claience Kay; Michael and Addison reside in Spiingfield, Ohio; George W., who w.as State Sen- ator, makes his home in London, Ohio; Harriet is a resident of London, Ohio; Nancy T. is the wife of John J. (ioodfellow; Harrison is a farmer of Madison County, Ohio, and .hjhn resides in (iibson City. Washington Wilson made his home in Spring- field at an early day. He was industrious and frugal, and .accumulated a large landed estate, hav- ing nearly two thousand acres of land near Spring- field at the time of his death. He was one of the prime movers in the firgauization of the Christian Cliurch in Springfield, and was one of its oHicers and most earnest supporters. As a Christian, he was Biblically orthodox, and practically evangelical with charity for all. He was active as a speaker PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 207 and worker in duircli, prnvcr meetings and Siin- day-sciiool, and his iios|iitaiitv to tlie ministers was lilieral and nuicli iiartaken ot. He was noted for steadfastness of purpose, a broad C'liristian spirit and for liis efforts to do good in his eonimu- nity and to encourage and develop a true Cliris- tian siiirit in those who came witliin tlio range of his inrtuence. The sterling (pialities of this worthy nian and his estimable wife, wliieli gave them sucli high standing in their eomnuinity, have had their intluenee in forming the eharacter of their children, who have become useful and worth}' members of society. William J. '\Vilst)n was reared to agricultural pursuits and was educated in the i)ublic schools of Si)ringfield, Ohio. On the 17tli of September, 1863, he was married, in his native county, to Miss L3'dia Goodfellow, a daughter of John and Lucy (Bennett) (Joodfellow,and a native of Clarke Count}-, Ohio. On attaining man's estate, Mr. Wilson engaged in farming near his old home, and continued in that vocation until 1875, when he embarked in the grocery business at London, Ohio. In 1876, he sold out and removed to Gibson City, 111., and engaged in the grain trade, which he conducted successfully until the burning of his elevator. On coming to Gibson Cit}^ Mr. AVilson invested in farming lauds in Ford County, and has increased his acreage until he now owns fifteen hundred acres of agricultural lands, which are situated partly in the following counties: Ford, ^'ermilion and Lee. Two years after he settled in Gibson City, Mr. Wilson became a [lartner in the bank- ing house now carried on under the firm title of Mattinson, Wilson ife Co., the oldest bank in the city, and has maintained partnership relations with that institution continuously since. In addition to the business interests already mentioned, Mr. Wil- son has done an extensive business in growing, buying, feeding and shipping live stock. lie is also a member of the Gibson Canning Company, of which he is Vice-President. Ten children were born to Mr. and Mrs. AVil- son, three sons and six daughters now living: ]\Iinnie B. is the wife of Evan IMattiiLson, of the banking house of Mattinson, Wilson & Co.; Luther B. is engaged in the real-estate lousiness in Dixon, 111.; Cora IMay resides with lier parents; Lucy V. is the wife of Albert Browning, a farmer of Drummer Township; William J., Jr.; Mary Maud, Grace, Mabel and Arthur Glenn. One died in infancy. In politics, IMr. Wilson is a Republican, but has never sought or desired public ollice. In their religious views, Mr. Wilson, his wife and older children are Presbyterians, and he is a member of the Board of Trustees of that church. The chil- dren older than Mary Maud were born in Clarke County, Ohio, while she and those younger are natives of Gibson City. Since his residence at Gibson City, Mr. Wilson has been actively and prominently identified with its commercial and linaneial interests, and it is no flattery to say of him that his record has been that of a man of strict integrity, enterprise and abil- ity. In his business career, he has been eminently successful, and has succeeded in accumulating a large and valuable property, while his uniformly upright course in life and just regard for the rights of others have entitled him to a place in the foremost ranks of the most respected and worthy citizens of Ford County. •^^ A. COAL, proprietor, editor and publisher of the daily and weekly Gilison City Enter- jmse, the leading Republican journal in the western part of Ford County, is a native of Washington, Pa., and was born November 28, 1856. His father is Dr. W. P. T. Coal, a retired physician, now of Bloomington, 111., but formerly of Washington County, Pa. He still owns the old family homestead in Steuben County, N. Y., that has been in the possession of the family since the patent was obtained from the Government in Colonial days. He was born in Steuben County, N. Y., on the 16th of November, 1818, and is of German descent, several generations remote. He was graduated from Bath Medical College and practiced his profession for forty years. He is a thorough scholar, though largely self-educated, and 208 PORTRAIT AND BIOORAPIIICAL EECORD, is a contriljutor to several Eastern majjazines and periodicals. His wife, the mother of our subject, was born in Breckenridge Count}', Ky., in May, 1819, and was descended from one of the oldest and most prominent of Kentucky families. She passed to her fmal rest many years ago, her death occurring in December, 1859. The subject of this sketch came to Illinois in 1858, and was educated in the High School at Tremont and at the Normal University, at Normal, spending about two j-ears as a student in the last- named institution. On completing his term at the University, he engaged in teaching school and was emplo3-ed in that vocation for nine years. He taught the Sibley School, the P^lliott School and what is known as the Dixon School, to the south of Gibson City. During a part of this time, he taught two different schools in the same year, so that he really taught twelve months in the year. In December, 1879, he started the Sibley Index, and on the 5th of June, 1883, established the Gib- son City Enterprise, a straight Republican weekly paper, still continuing the publication of the Index a year and a half later. He started the daily Gib- son Qity Enterprise in December, 1889. a six-column folio, still carrying on the weekly Enterprise, a six-column quarto. He has continued the publica- tion of both to the present time, having made a success of the venture and built up a prosperous business. He has in connection with his newspaper publishing a well-appointed job ofJlce and does an extensive business in the line of first-class com- mercial job work. On the 29th of December, 1879, Mr. Coal was married, in Gibson City, to Miss Sadie E. Black, a daughter of William and Sarah J. Black. Her father is deceased and her mother is now the wife of J. H. Dungan, of Gibson City. Mrs. Coal was bom in Clinton County, Ind.,and came to Illinois in childhood. She has become the mother of one child, a son. Earl H. D., who was born on the 26th of June, 1888. The parents are both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in the work of which they take an active interest. Mr. Coal is a Knight Templar Mason, a member of Gibson Lodge No. 733, A. F. & A. M.; of Gib- son Chapter No. 183, R. A. M.; of Gibson Council No. 72; and Mt. Olivet Commandery No. 38, K. T., of Paxtou. He is an active and earnest supporter of Republican principles and is a potent factor in campaign work. His acquaintance is extensive throughout the county and his friends are many and among the best of his fellow-citizens. He possesses a genial and fraternal spirit, is always courteous and cordi.al in manner with strangers as well as friends. He is a fluent, easj' writer and his papers are among the best published in this i)art of the State. He and his wife rank high in social cir- cles and are numbered among the prominent and worthy citizens of Ford County. ROF. JOHN D. SHOOP, who has been ) Principal of the Gibson City schools since S ^ September, 1890, was born in Sabina, Clin- I \ ton County, Ohio, March 3, 1857, and is a son of Jonathan and Margaret (Sn3-der) Shoop. His father was born in Pennsylvania, and his mother in Fleming County, \s.y. Our subject was orphaned in childhood, his mother dying while he was yet an infant, and his father passing away when he was but seven years of age. His parents were in limited circumstances, and John D. was left, at the early age of seven, to fight the battle of life alone and unaided. He was reared to manhood among strangers, and was apprenticed to a farmer until twenty-one years of age. His edu- cation was obtained at private schools and by self- culture. He began teaching in 1878, in Fayette County, Ohio, and was Principal of the schools at Blooiningburg, Ohio, for three years. Subsequently, he taught in the Institute at Washington Court House, where he remained until 1889. On the 1st of September, 1887, Prof. Siioop was united in marriage with Miss Jennie B. Perrill. Mrs. Shoop was born at Washington Court House, and IS a daughter of James and Rebecca Perrill. Her father is a prominent farmer of her native county, and one of the highl}' esteemed citizens. In 1889. Prof. Shooji came to Illinois, settling in Saybrook. McLean County, where he was employed c;!^^nding her earlier years in Bloomington. Since old enough to take an interest in politics, which was during the exciting da^-s of the Civil War, Mr. Cook has alway.s been an advocate of Repul)lican jirinciples. In 1880, he was elected State Attorney for Ford County, has been twice re-elected, and is now serving his twelfth j-ear in that position. He is a Knight Templar Mason, holding membership witli Paxton Lodge No. 416, A. F. A A. M.; Ford Chapter No. 113, R. A. M., and of Mt. Olivet Commandery No. 38, K. T., all of Paxton. He is also Vice-president of the First National Bank, and a member of the Board of Di- rectors. We find in Mr. Cook a lawyer of ac- knowledged ability, who occupies a foremost po- sition at the Ford Count}^ Bar. His life in Wash- ington, during one of the most interesting periods of our country's history, afforded him an oppor- tunity to observe, more or less intimately, tlie leading men in public life of that day, many of whom have become historic characters. A close observer of men and events, a good memory and a happy faculty for ex()iessing his thoughts and views, make Mr. Cook an entertaining conversa- tionalist and a most agreeable companion. \]^xETER PAPINEAU, of Paxton, is numbered Jl) among the early .settlers of Ford County. ^ He was born in Montreal, Canada, on the / \ 20th of June, 1837, and is a son of Joseph and Maria Papineau. Both of his parents were of French extraction. The subject of this sketch is a self-made man, and whatever success he has achieved in life is due entirely to his own efforts. He had very limited school privileges, only at- tending until about eleven years of age, and no special advantages of an}' kind. He remained un- 218 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. der the parental roof until seventeen years of age, when he left his father's home and started out to earn his own livelihood. His choice of an occupa- tion fell upon the blacksmith's trade, and after learning that business, he followed it for some years in his native land. It was in 1857 that he came to the United States, and his first location was made in Illinois. He be- came a resident of Kankakee, where he worked at his trade for three years, and then went to Galena, 111., where the succeeding year of his life wiis passed. He then spent one year in St; Ann, and in 18(53 we find him a resident of Ford County. He made a location in tlie city of Paxton, and soon afterward erected a blacksmith shop and began business. Since that time he has engaged in black- smithing and carri.age-making continuously, and, being an expert workman, has secured a liberal patronage, which he retains by his courteous treat- ment .ind earnest efforts to please his i)atrons. On the 6th of July, 1859, Mr. P.apineau led to the marriage altar Miss Caroline Beaugard, who is a native of Canada, and is also of French descent. Their union lias been blessed witli a family of thir- teen children, who, in order of birth, are as follows: Peter, Edward, Charles, Josephine; George, who died in infancy; Joseph, River, Reener, Arthur, John, Amy, Leo and Loraine. The parents and the children are memliers of the Catholic Church, and throughout Ford County the f.amily is well and favorably known. Mr. Papineau is an enter- prising business man, who by his own efforts has made liis life a successful one. lie is wide awake to tlie interests of the city, faithfully jierforms all his duties of citizenship, and is well worthy of representation in this volume. ^->^^<^^-!- ¥TLLIAM KENNEY, a prominent farmer residing on section 21, AVnll Township, claims Pennsylvania as tlie State of his nativity, lie was born in Washington Count3', on the 26th of April, 1828, and is a son of James Kenne}', wlio was l)orn on the s.ame farm as our subject and there still m.akes his home. His par- ents were Beniaminaud Elizabeth (Blair) Kenney. The former w.as liorn June 9, 1764; the latter, a daughter of John and Mary Blair, was bom Sep- tember 17, 1771, and their marriage was celebrated September 17, 1789. Tiiey became the parents of eight children: Margaret, who was born August 8, 1790; IMary, January 22, 1792; John Blair, who was born June 14, 1794. and died Septem- ber 14, 1808; Elizabeth, wiio was liorn July 6, 1802, and died on the 22d of December, of that year; Benjamin, who was born December 23, 1804, and died September 8, 1805; James, January 11, 1806; Wesley, May 8, 1808, and Rebecca, Decenil)er 31, 1810. The father of this family- died March 28, 1843, and his wife survived un- til .January 26, 1852, when she too was called to her final rest. The father of our subject. Rev. James Kenney, acquired his education in the log schools of that early day, and before he had reached the age of twentj' 3-ears he joined the Methodist Episcopal Church and began preacliing. For more than sixty years he has engaged in the ministerial work, in connection with which he h:is carried f>n the operation of that farm which has l)een his home throughout his entire life. About 1828, Rev. Mr. Kenney w.as united in mar- riage to Miss Ann Sproat, who was three years his junior and was a daughter of William and Mary Sproat, farmer people of Washington County. They l)ecamethe parents of four children: AVilliara of tills sketch; Elizalieth, wife of Asbury Greenfield, of California; C3'rus, who is living on a ranch in Ventura County, Cal.; John F., who follows agri- cultural pursuits in Wall Townshi|). The mother died when our subject was about ten years old, and a year later his father married Patience Moore, a native of Greene Countj', Pa. The\- became the par- ents of eight children: Benjamin F., who is farming in California; Eliza, who became the wife of John Freeman and died in Florida; INIargaret, wife of Wilson Ward, of Washington Counts', Pa.; James, who m.akcs his home in the same county'; Josephine, who died in infancy; Kate, twin sister of .Josephine, living with her parents, and ISIary M., wife of Lewis Cleaver, a merchant of AVashington Count3', Pa. The father of this faniiiy was one of the PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 219 most liiirlilv rcspeeterl citizens of tliat cominunity. In iiis social relations, he is a Mason and, in politics, is a Republican. He cast his first Presidential vote for John ()iiincy Adams, and afterwards supported the AViiig party until the rise of the Republican party. There was not much to vary the monotony of the early life of our sulijcct, which was spent in farm work and in the attendance at the common schools. As tiie family was in limited circumstances, he saw something of the harder side of life. His health not being very good, he learned the trade of a saddler, which he followed in the Keystone State until Ibi'iS, when, believing he could better his fi- nancial condition, he emigrated to Putnam County, 111., in the spring of 1854, and for two years worked by the day as a farm hand. He then en- gaged in farming for himself until 1856, when he removed to La Salle County, whei-e he rented land until 1K71, when he came to Ford County, and bought an unimproved tract of eighty acres. To this he has since added, until he now owns one hun- dred and sixty acres, a good farm well improved and highly cultivated. In 1850, in the county of his nativity, Mr. Ken- ney was joined in wedlock to Miss INIary Mc^'ain, who was born in Greene County, Pa., and is a daughter of Moses and Mary (Keys) ]McVain. Her father was a native of Greene County. I'a., and died when about seventy years of age. He was a blacksmith by trade and was an industrious man. In jiolitics, he was a Democrat. Ilis wife died when Mrs. Kenncy was only a small child, scarce!}- nine years of age. In the common schools, Jlrs. Kenney acquired her education. She is a kind and loving wife and mother, and hand in hand our sub- ject and his wife have walked for forty-one years. Unto them have been born twelve children, six yet living: Elizabeth A., a resident of La Salle County, 111.; Mary E. and Martha J., deceased; Mary M., wife of Charles Stoneljieaker, who resides in Rob- erts, 111.; James M., who is living in Vermilion County; Asbury G., deceased; Charles L., a farmer of Wall Township, Ford County; John "\V. and Maggie F., deceased; Leander S., a resident farmer of Wall Township; John F., at home, and Mabel who has also passed away. INIr. Kenney cast his first Presidential vote for Wintield Scott, and was an advocate of Whig princi- ples until 1856, when he voted for Fremont, since which time he has been a stalwart Rei)ublican. He has often been a delegate to the conventions of his party and served on its committees. For seven years he has been Supervisor of Wall Township, and was its Treasurer for about fourteen years. True to every trust reposed in him, his duties were faithfully discharged, and he won the confidence and regard of all with whom he had been brought in contact. He is a highl}- resiiected citizen of the community and one who has the best interests of the county at heart ENJAMIN STITES, a pioneer of Ford .^ County of 1855, settled on section 17, on j^M)jl! Government land, and made that his home for the remainder of his life. He was born in Butler County, Ohio, October 14, 1805, and w.as a son of Benjamin Stites. His grandfatlier was a IMajor in the German Army, and emigrated to the United States prior to the Revolutionary War. He took part in the struggle for independence, and held the rank of Captain. He and one Judge Syinmes had a grant of three million acres of land, which they located on the north side of the Ohio River. Mr. Stites located the town of Columbia, Ohio, and made that place his home. Of the tract so located, a considerable portion is still in posses- sion of the descendants of the original proprietors. In an early day, the subject of this sketch re- moved to Cincinnati, where he owned and oper- ated an extensive stone-quarry, which was located at what is now the head of North Sycamore Street of that city. He was twice married. His Qrst wife died in 1828, leaving two children, both now de- ceased. In his native State he afterward married Miss Susan E. Stewart, a native of Hamilton, But- ler County, Ohio, and a daughter of Charles and Susan Stewart. Eight children were born of their union: Benjamin F. wedded Miss Martha A. Dunn, and died in the fall c>f 1889; Sarah A. was the wife of Henry A. Dewey, and died in 1861; Hannah S. 220 PORTRAIT AKD BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. is tlie wife of Eliliu Swisher, of Paxton; Plirebe A. is the wife of John White, of Paxton; Margaret E. married Jonathan Covalt, and is now a widow, residing m Oswego, Kan.; William H. married Clara A. MoKee. and resides in Paxton; Samuel S. is a resident of Elwood, Ind.; and Susan M. is the wife of Samuel Hill, whose home is in Cincinnati, Ohio. Pluebe A. and those 30unger were born in Illinois, while the elder members of the family wei'e born in Ohio. Mr. Stites continued to reside in Cincinnati until 1837, when, with his family, he emigrated West- ward and settled near Dan ville, Vermilion County, 111., where he was engaged in farming until March. ISofi, when he removed to what is now Ford County. In 1854, he came to this county and opened a farm on section 17, town of Patton, and on the site of the village of Prairie Cit^- (now Paxton), which he platted, and of which he may properly be called the founder, where he made his home until his death, wliich occurred December fi, 1860. Ilis good wife survived him until IMay 13, 1887, when she too passed away. Mr. Stites took an active interest in getting the territory, of which Ford County is composed, set off from certain counties. The county was very new and sparsely settled at the time, and he suffered from exposure in traveling to secure signatures to a petition to the Legislature of 18r)9 to have Ford Count\^ created. His death is said to have resulted from disease contracted while emplo^'cd in that duty. He was an earnest member of the Methodist Church, and sometimes served as local preacher while resid- ing in Illinois. His family were members of the same denomination. AVliile in Ohio, they be- longed to the Baptist Church, but on coming to this State, had found no organized society of that church, and attached themselves to the Methodist Chinch. For some years prior to the building of tiie house of worship in Paxton, religious meetings were held at the home of Mr. Stites, and he and his wife were ctmsistent members of the Paxton Church. In politics, f)ur subject was an original Aboli- tionist, and joined the Republican party in Illinois at its organization. He voted for Fremont and Dayton in 18.')(), and for Lincoln and Hamilton in 1860, which was his last vote, as his death occurred the following December. In manner, he was plain and unpretending, and in every act of life earnest and sincere. Integrity and rectitude characterized his intercourse with his fellow-men, and none knew him but to esteem and respect lum. ','D'.'."Ij Samuel Stites, the j'oungestson, was born in A'er- milion County, 111., September 20, 1849, received a common-school education, and was reared to agri- cultural pursuits. Until 1883. he was engaged in farming, and then embarked in the real-estate busi- ness in Kansas, subsequently extending his opera- tions into Colorado, Texas, Missouri, New Mexico, and the Indian Territory. In December, 1890, lie became interested in the real-estate business in the young and booming town of F]hvood, Ind.. a place that has sjjrung from a small village to a city of five thousand people in a short time, through its wonderful supjjly of natural gas, which furnishes heat, light and power for mechanical purposes, and which is rapidly developing into an important manufacturing center. N 4^S«^ y \ i^^ AMITEL EMMONS, one of the pioneer set- ^^^ tiers of F\)rd County, was born in Maniil- l^l/j| ton County, Ohio, September 13, 1836, and is a son of William and Rebecca (Pearson) F^mmons. The father was born in New Jersey, and when young removed to Ohio with his par- ents, who were among the early settlers of that State. In Hamilton County, he married Miss Pear- son, a native of that county. About 1838, thej' removed to Mercer County, Ohio, which was then a wilderness, their nearest neighbor being five miles distant. Having built a log house and cleared some ten acres of land, Mr. Emmons took sick and died, in 1840, when in the prime of life, being only thirty-six years of age. He left three cliildren, the eldest of whom was burned to death in childhood. Samuel was the next in order of birth, and Almira, the youngest, is now Mrs. Lind, of Cincinnati, Ohio. The mother afterward married again, but p,assed to her final reward in 1890, being .seventy- six years of age. PORTRAIT AND BlOGRAi'lIlCAL RECORD. 223 Our subjc't't is the only one of tlie family living in this county, and, sini'u about the age of nine years, has made his own wa\' in the world. Hav- ing worlced for wages for several years, he began farming for iiimself. Mr. Emmons wedded Mary U. George, on the SUlh of October, IbfJO. She was a native of Darke County, Oliio, and a hidy of French descent. Soon after tlieir marriage, tiiey removed to Le Ro_v, .AIcLean County, ill., where he carried on a farm until August 8. 1862. On tiiat date, Mr. Emmons enlisted in Compan}' (i, Ninety-fourtli Illinois Volunteer Infantry. The regiment was sent to Southern Missouri and North- ern Arkans.as. and the fust battle in whieli our suliject engaged was Prairie (irove, Ark., which was followed by the siege of Vicksburg, the cap- lure of Yazoo City and Morganza. In 186:5, the command crossed the Gulf and captured Browns- ville, after which it returned and captured Ft. Morgan, was engaged in the battles of Fish River, Pasca Gula, and Spanish Fort, which was the last engagement in which our subject participated. He was never wounded or taken prisoner, but soon after the battle of Vicksbuig, while on a march be- tween Yazoo City and Jackson, he received a sun- stroke from which lie has never recovered. He was a biave soldier, and was discharged at Spring- field, 111., in August, 1865, after the close of the war. Returning to McLean County, Mr. Emmons turned his attention to farming, and in 1867 re- moved to Ford County, but soon after went again to McLean County, where he spent a year and then returned to this county. Having farmed until 1872, he came to Gibson Cit_y, and has since made this place his home. In 1880, Mrs. Emmons was called to her final rest, leaving six children, of whorn Ave are still living: Addie, wife of J. S. Jloore, of Gibson City; William M., an expressman of Gibson; Amy, Min- nie, and Gertrude, now the wife of P. Ryan, of Gibson Cit}-. The mother was a member of the United Brethren Church, and a true Chiistian lady. On the 5tli of Maj', 1881, Mr.Emmons was .again united in marriage, this time to Mrs. Laura L. Moore, adaughterof A. N. and Delilah (Hamilton) Nevin, who emigrated from Brown County, Ohio, to McLean County, 111., aI)out 18.5.5, and in that county Mrs. Emmons married James Moore, by whom she had four children, two of whom arc still living, Blanche and Bertha. Mr. Moore died in 1874, and, in 1881, his widow married oursuliject, as is given above. Of this union two children were born, Mamie and Lucilc. Mrs. Emmons is a Meth- odist in religious belief, and in the church of that denomination is an earnest worker. Since coming to Gibson City, Mr. Emmons lias engaged in a variety of occupations, carrying on a meat market, a restaurant, and a draying and ice business. In political sentiment, he is a Repub- lican, and takes an active interest in the success of that party. Socially, he is member of Lott Post No. 7(), G. A. R., of which he is a charter meinlier, and has held all the ollices. In the war, he was a biave iind valiant soldier, and in peace is a true and worthy citizen. *»' OHN H. MOFFETT, Mayor of Paxton and the senior member of the law firm of Moffett ifc Day, is well known as one of the I prominent and highly-respected citizens of Ford Count3'. He was born in Cl.ayton, Adams County, 111., on the 2.5tli of I'el^ruary, 18.56, and is the son of Samuel R. and Mary (Strong) Moffctt, both of whom were natives of South Carolina. In 1834, the father left his native State, emigrating to Monroe County, Inc)., where he made his home until 1855, wliich year witnessed his arrival in Illinois. He located in Adams County, but after remaining there for a period of two 3-ears, the family returned to Indiana. It was in April, 1865, that they again came to Illinois and settled in Paxton, where the father died in 1879. The mother yet survives him and is still a resident of Paxton. The subject of this sketch went to Monroe County, Ind., with his parents in infancy and began his school life in that county. In 1865, he came with the family to Paxton and attended the public school of that city, where he iirepared him- self for college, after which he attended Mou- 224 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. mouth College, of Moiimoutli, 111., for two years. He entered upon the study of law, under the pre- ce[)torship of .Tohn R. Kinnear, of Paxton, and was admitted to the IJar in Springfield, in January, 1880, after which lie embarked in the prosecution of tlie legal profession in Rixton, in comijany with his former preceptor. That connection was continued until I\Ir. Kinnear removed to Seattle, Wash., in May, 1883. In tlie following Septem- lier, 'Sh: IMoffett liecame associated in practice with .ludge Tipton, of IMoomington, 111., he being the resident partner of the firm in Paxton. In .Tune, 1890, C. L. Day was admitted to i)artnersiiip, the firm becoming Tii)ton, Moffett & Day, which con- nection was continued until .Tune, 18'J1, when .Judge Tipton withdrew, and since that time the lirm has existed as at present, doing business under the firm title of .Aloffett & Day. On May 16, 1878, Mr. IMoffett was married in Loda, the lady of his choice being Miss Martha S.Gray, a native of Crawford County, Ohio, and a daughter of Samuel and Mary .T. Gray. Four children have been born of their union; two died in childhood and two survive: Samuel Claude and .lolin Carl. The parents arc both members of the United Presbyterian Church. In his political views, Mr. Moffett is a Republi- can, and in 1888 served as Cit}' Alderman of Pax- ton; while in the spring of 18'J1 he was elected Mayoi', and is now filling that otiice with credit to himself and to the satisfaction of his constituents. lie has been an industrious student and is well grounded in the theory and practice of his pro- fession. He possesses superior natural aljility, un- tiring energy and strict integrity, and while com- |)arativoly a young man, he has won an envhable reputation as a lawyer. «#■ -'*^-* ••• r^ '^> ^ AMES L. SAXTON, a leading merchant of Gibson City, a dealer in dry-goods, carjiets, boots and shoes, estalilished business in that ^_^ town on the 10th of April, 187;"). He was born in the town of German, Chenango County, N. Y., August 13, 1847, and is a son of Henry and Serenia (Brown) Saxton, both natives of ISIassa- chusetts. His father was born TNlarch 12, lM14,and his mother's birth occurred December 24, 1816. Both are still living and make their home in Cin- cinuatus, Cortland County, N. Y. When James L. was six years of age, he removed with his parents to Cincinnatus, where he received an academic education, after which he was engaged in teaching school until August, 1866, when he came to Illinois, and was employed .as a merchant's clerk in Henry, Marshall County, for three years. He was next engaged in the same capacity in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, for a year and a half, after which he became an equal partner of his brother William, of that place, and there continued merchandising until March, 187.^, when he came to Gibson Cit}', starting his present business. He was quite successful, and has now an annual trade amounting to 840,000 and upwards. lie is the oldest dry-goods merchant in the city in continu- ous j'ears of business, and, since the beginning, his trade has rapidly increased. On the 20th of June, 1871, Mr. Saxton married, in Henry, Marsh.all County, III, Miss Mary E. AVhitney. The lady is a native of Fulton County, 111., and is a daughter of John and Jane Whitney; the former, a native of Massachusetts, is now de- ceased. Her mother, who is still living, was born in Indiana, and is a resident of (Tibson Cit^'. In politics, Mr. Saxton affiliates with the Repub- lican party, and lie and his wife ai'e consistent members of the First Presbyterian Church of (Tib- son, in which he holds the oHice of clerk. In Sunday-school wiork, Mr. Saxton takes an active interest and part, having been Superintendent eight j'ears; President of the Ford County Sunday- school Association one term; Treasurer of the same three j'cars; President of the Sixth District Sunday- school Association two terms. In 1886, he removed to Owatonna, Minn., where for two years he carried on merchandising, and then returned toGilisoii City and resumed tnisiness there. With the excei)tii)n of the two years spent in Owatonna, he has been engaged in business in Gibson City continuously since 187.1. Mr. Saxton carries a full and complete stock of goods in his line, is alwajs up with the times in styles, and is 4 T^-^-'^^'tyCy , — ^^ (^^^^,^5^-i^.<^^:2^ 'yry — r « /iieui-i-^.^^^ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 225 one of the most poiiular and successful mei-chants iu Ford County, where he is widely and favorably known. As a business man and citizen he stands deservedly high, and during his many years of business in Gibson lias won the good opinion of the best people in the city and adjacent country, will) whom ho has liad business or social vel.ations. RED W. BEARDSLEY, Secretary of ihe )) Gibson Canning Company, was the leading spirit in founding that institution and has been actively identifled with its successful man- agement ever since. He is a native of Ohio, born in Cantield, Mahoning County, on the Western Reserve, on the 27tli of November, 1831. His parents were Philo and Lois Smith (Gun) Beards- ley, botii members of old N(;w England families. The father was born in Warren, Litchfield County, Conn., August 14, 1794, and was of English de- scent. Tiie Beardsley family, of which our subject is a member, was founded in America by William Beardsley, an English emigrant, who first settled in what is now Stratford, Conn., in 1635. The mother of Fred W. w.as born December 24, 1797, in New Preston, Litchfield County, Conn., and was descended from Scotch ancestry, her family dating its settlement in the New World prior to the Revolutionary War. The parents of our sub- ject were married at New Preston, Conn., March 3, 1810, and the same year moved by ox-team to Oliio, settling on the Western Reserve, which, at that time, was a wild and almost uninhabited region. Philo Beardsley was a man of excellent business ability, and, in course of time, became a well-to-do farmer. In politics, he w.as a Whig until the agitation of the slavery question, when he became a strong Abolitionist. On the rise of the Republican part}', he espoused its pi inciples and ever remained true to them. Botli he and wife were active workers in the Congregational Ciiurch. In the days when each State required its citizens to spend some time each year in military drill, Mr. Beardsley held the office of Captain, and was ever afterward known as CM|)t. Beardsley. On the 27tli of August, 1818, his wife p.-issed from among the living. She wiis the mother of twelve children, six sons and six daugliters, of whom eight are still living. Mr. Beardsley died February 21, 1870. F'red W. Beardsley is tlie eighth of the above- named famil}-. After a preparatory course in the public scliools, he entered Mt. Union College, tak- ing a scientific course, but left during the senior year. F'or some six winters he engaged success- fully in teaching school, and at the same time conducted writing-schools. It is doubtful whetlier there is a finer penman in tlie county than Mr. Beardsley. In 1860, he was elected Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas and ex-()tficio Clerk of the District Court for Mahoning County, and was re-elected b}- acclamation, serving in all six years. Wliile tlius engaged, he spent his leisure hours in reading law, and in 1866 was admitted to the Bar, in Cantteld, Ohio, where he practiced his profession until his removal to the West. In October, 1860, our subject was married, in his native county, to Miss Jaqueline Gee, a daugh- ter of Peter and Almira Gee. Mrs. Beardsley was born iu Berlin Centre, Mahoning Count}', Ohio. Her father was a native of Ellsworth, Mahoning Count}', and the mother of Deerfield, Portage County, of the same State. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Beardsley, of whom two are living: Almira Day, the eldest, is now the wife of Thomas Finnegan, of Kankakee, 111.; Lois G. died at the age of twenty-two years; and Bertha E. resides with her father. In 1872, Mr. Beardsley came to Illinois as busi- ness manager for an Ohio capitalist, who had large sums of money loaned and invested in this State, and in 1876 moved his family to Champaign County, where he resided three years, and in 1879 removed to Gibson City, where he still makes his home. He was in charge of the same business from 1872 until 1888, collecting and re-loaning, until the capital was withdrawn from the State. Much of that business covered investments in farmino' lands, which w.as conducted with ability and fidel- ity and to the satisfaction of the proprietor. Be- sides this, he was extensively interested in raisino- 226 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. live stock. In 1885, Mr. Beardsley interested himself in the organization of the Gibson Canning Factory. He was cliosen secretary, which position he has since filled. These works are tiie second largest in capacity in the United States, and in round numbers pack annually two million cans of corn, and in the summer of 18!)2 they expect to exceed that amount. In addition to his interest in the canning business, Mr. Beardsley is the owner of four farms, lying in Ford County, aggregating six hundred and seven acres. One of them, a farm of two hundred and forty acres, is situated at what is known as Switch 1), on the Lake Erie & Western Railroad; another, of one hundred and sixty acres, is a mile west of Gibson City; another, of fifty-two acres, joins the city on the soutli; and the last, of one hundred and fifty-five acres, joins Gibson City on the west. He keeps a herd of one hundred and fifty Sliort-horn and high-grade cat- tle, a flock of Oxford Downs sheep, besides Berk- shire and Poland-China hogs and Morgan horses. On the 21st of December, 1891, Mr. Beardsley was called upon to mourn the death of his wife, who had been his faithful and devoted com|)anion through the joys and sorrows, the hopes and fears, the trials and successes of his life for thirty-one years. She was an earnest Christian woman and for many years was a consistent member of the Jlethodist Episcopal Church. During all these years, she was faithful to every duty, devoted to her husband and children and always made her in- fluence for good felt, not only within the limits of her liome, but in the social circles and the com- munity where she dwelt. .lust a few weeks prior to her death, Mr. and Mrs. Beardsley had moved into their new home, which is one of the finest in Gibson City, and a model of convenience. Every department of the house is furnished with both hot and cold w-ater, supplied from a reservoir above which is filled by a hot-air pump; private gas apparatus lights the house, and the latest improved hot-water system furnishes it with heat. In short, it would be diffi- cult to conceive of a home more complete in its appointments. How different this edifice is from the pioneer cabin of twenty years ago! Mr. Beardsley and his daughter are members of the same church to which tlic wife and mother be- longed. In politics, he is a Republican and has always taken an active interest in the success of his party. In the days of slavery agitation, Mr. Beardslej', true to the traditions of the "Old West- ern Reserve," was an original Abolitionist, and during the war that grew out of the slavery troubles, he gave the Government a hearty and patriotic support, contributing more money to the cause than any other itjan in his native township. During his residence in ISIahoning County, Ohio, he was chosen and served as Secretary and Treas- urer of the County Fair Association, was Secre- tary of his local School Board, and was otherwise prominently connected with public affairs. Since his residence in Ford County, 111., he has always shown a laudable interest in local matters and has ever been found public-spirited. A thoroughly' practical business man, he enjoys in a marked degree the confidence and esteem of his fellow- citizens. ^'^"T^c ,,.,, MMON COOMES. Among the entcrpris- (.QSjO ing and successful business men of Paxtou lit should be numbered the popular druggist whose name heads this sketch. Mr. Coomes established business in this cit3' in May, 1882, with a full line of drugs, medicines, paints, oil, wall paper and toilet articles, and has continued the business with marked success to the present time, covering a period of ten years. Our subject was born in Licking County, Ohio, September 15, 1849, and is a son of Upton and Mary J. (Gregg) Coomes. The father was born on the 28th of July, 1828, in the same county as the son, and the mother on the 4th of June of the same year, in Virginia. The}' emigrated to Illinois in 1855, and settled in McLean County, near Grid- ley, and, in 1875, removed to Streator, where they now reside. For a number of years Mr. Coomes was a minister in the Christian Church. Amnion Coomes came to Illinois with his parents when a lad of six summers, and attended school at Gridley, preparing himself for college, after which ^*^^, t^rPi^rtl r ^H^-T^yMAj ^-<^(^kz:^^^^>^it^r>^ J' '^ 4 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 22!^ he entei-ed Eureka College, and was graduated from that institution in the Class of '73. He fol- lowed teaching school for several years as a voca- tion, serving as |)rlncii)al of village schools, but, not content to make this his life work, in JMay, 1882, he formed a i)artnershi|) with William Me- Taggart, under the firm name of McTaggart & Coonies, druggists at Paxton. Mr. Coonies made a study of the business in a practical way, and, after passing a very llatteriug examination before the Illinois State Board of Pharmacy, was awarded a diploma. In 1884, he purchased his partner's interest and has since conducted the business alone with marked success, having an excellent trade and the liberal patronage is certainly well de- served. In I'iper City, Ford County, on the 2.5th of No- vember, 1883, Mr. Coonies wedded Miss Margaret Clark, a daughter of Alexander and Eliza Clark, and a native of Paterson, N. ,1. With her parents she came to Illinois in 18(i4. Mr. and Mrs. Coomes hold membership with the Congregational Church of Paxton. They are well known throughout this community and rank high in social circles. Mr. Coomes exercises his right of franchise in support of the Republican part}-, and keeps himself well informed on the issues of the day, but has never sought or desired public otiiee. A!n^i - 1 1 > I > ]^i VAN MATTINSON, cashier and member of the banking firm of Mattinson, Wilson A Co., was born in Clarke Count}', Ohio, Sep- tember 30, 18.')7, and is a son of Matthew and Mar- garet (Evans) Mattinson. His father was iiorn in Westmoreland County, England, October 15, 1810, and came to America when about twenty-four years of age. He made his home in Clarke County, Ohio, where he was married, Decemlier 20, 1841, to Miss Margaret Evans, a daughter of Edward Evans. Mrs. Mattinson was born in North Wales in 1820, and came to the Fnited States in 1837. Both yet reside in Clarke County, Ohio. Evan Mattinson was reared on a farm and re- oeivcd his education in the schools of South Charles- 10 ton, Clarke County, Ohio, closing in the High Schools of that city. He was engaged in farming in his native State until 1880, when he came to Illinois and located in Gil)son City. He then en- gaged as clerk in the banking house of Burwell, Leffel & Co., of wliicli the present bank is an out- growth. When the existing firm was formed, he was made casliicr and has continued to serve in that capacity until the present time. On the 5th of JIarch, 1885, Mr. ^Mattinson was united in marriage, at Gibson City, to Miss Minnie Belle Wilson, a daughter of AVilliam .1. and Lydia (Goodfellow) Wilson. She was born in Clarke County, Ohio, and came to Gibson City with her parents in 187G. One child, M. Clarence, has been born to them. In politics, Mr. Mattinson is a Republican, while he and his wife are meiiil)ers of the Presbyterian Church. He is a Knight Templar Jl.ason, a member of all the Masonic bodies of Gibson City, and of Mt. Olivet Commanderv No. 38, Knights Templar of Paxton. He is also a member of Gibson Camp, Modern Woodmen of America. He has been City Treasurer of Gibson City several times, also Treas- urer of the Gibson Building and Loan Association, and of the Gibson Canning Comijany. As a financier and business man, Mr. Mattinson stands deservedly high. His management of the affairs of the bank has been such as to insure pub- lic confidence and make friends of its patrons. He is enterprising, yet conservative, and his integrity is beyond question. The successful career of the bank since his connection with it bears no uncer- tain testimony as to his right to a fair share of the credit, without detracting at all from the healthful influence of his worthy associates. R. DEKALB DENMAN is one of the well- known contractors and builders of Paxton, and his handiwork may be seen in many of the principal buildings of this city. The life record of this gentleman is as follows: He was born in Jlontgomery County, Ind., February 4, 1842, and was one of a family of six sons and four 230 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRArHICAL RECORD. daughters who grew to mature j'ears, but one son and two daughters are now deceased. The father, A. J. Denman, was born iu Ohio, April 20, 1811, and in 1829 accompanied his father, William Den- man, to La Fayette, Ind., where the grandfather settled with his family. About three years later, he removed to Montgomery County, becoming one of its pioneer settlers, and iu its development aided largely. He had served his country in the War of 1812. A. J. Denman acquired a good education and iu his younger life suceessf ull}' engaged in teaching school for a time. In Montgomery County, Ind., he married Nancy Smith, who was a native of Ohio, but spent the daj's of lier maidenhood in Indiana, whither she came witli her lather, Samuel Smith, who was born iu Virginia. They began their domestic life upon a farm in Montgomery County, where they resided until 1852, .when they removed to Fountain County, where Mr. Den- man is still living, a hale and hearty old gentle- man of eighty-one years. His eldest son carries on the farm. The death of his wife occurred De- cember 31, 1888. The educational privileges which our subject re- ceived were only those afforded by the common schools. The days of his boyhood and youth were passed upon his father's farm, but, wishing to fol- low some other pursuit beside that of agriculture, he served a four-3ears' apprenticeship to the car- penter's trade iij Montgomery County. He was united in marriage in this county on tlie lltli of February, 1869, to Elvira Lytic, a native of Mont- gomery County, Ind., and a daughter of Setli Lytic, who was born iu Ohio, hut when a young man went to the Hoosier State. He was there married and for some time resided in Montgomery Count}', but afterward became one of the honored pioneers of Ford County of 1859. He located on a farm near the city but is now residing iu Paxton. After his marriage, Mr. Denman returned to Indiana, where he worked at his trade for two years and then became a resident of Paxton. Since 187G, he lias engaged in contracting and building, and has done an excellent business which is constantl}' increasing. He has liuilt a large number of the residences and business houses of the city and also has been employed largely throughout the surrounding country. He eu!plo3's on an average about eight hands. As he al- ways does his work in a satisfactory manner and is known to be a straightforward, honorable busi- ness man, he receives the liberal patronage of which he is so deserving. Mr. and Mrs. Denman have four children: Ai- mer, who graduated from the Paxton Collegiate Institute, is now station-agent on the Wisconsin Central Railroad at Franklin Park, a suburb of Chicago; Eva, Clarence and Amy. They also lost three children: Ernest, who died at the age of f eight years; Delbert, who died at the age of six- teen months; and Gussie, who died at the age of two years. Mr. and Mis Denman hold membership witli the First Congregational Church of Paxton. He formerly exercised his right of franchise in support of the Democratic party, and, on account of his views concerning the temperance question, is now a Prohibitionist. He has never been an office- seeker, .but has served as Alderman of the city in an efficient manner. Mr. Denman commenced life a poor man, with his own way to make in the world. There were many hardships in his path and many difficulties to overcome, but by perse- verance and determination he has worked his way upward to success and is now in comfortable cir- cumstances. He has the best interests of the city at heart and is held in high regard by tiiose with wliom he has been l)rouglit in contact. M ■^[AMES R. PHILLIPS, an enterprising and successful farmer, residinsi; on section 28 Button Township, claims Ohio as the State of his nativity. He was born in Mahoning Count}-, May 16, 1831, and is a son of John Phil- lips, a native of Scotland, who emigrated to the New World when a child of three summers with his father, .James Phillips, the family settling in Ohio, among the pioneers of Mahoning County. The fatlier of our subject was there reared, and PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 231 married Miss Elizabetli White, who was born in Pennsylvania. With his wife, he afterward re- moved to Cuyalioga County, which was then an almost inibrolven wilderness and, in the midst of the forest, he cleared and dovelo|)ed a farm, upon which he reared his family and spent the I'cmain- der of his life, lie i)assed away on tiie 1 Itii of .July, 1840, and was laid to rest in the old family cemetery, llo left a widow and four small chil- dren. Mrs. Phillips long survived her husband, her death occurring in Feliruary, 1881, when she was laid l)y his side. A beautiful monument now marks their resting place. Our subject is the eld- est of their four sons; Nathaniel White, the second, resides with his family in Cleveland, Ohio; David Little operates the old homestead farm; and Nich- olas Allen is married and also resides on the old homestead. Our subject remained with his mother until after he had attained to man's estate, and in his youth acquired a good English education. On the ytli of December, 185G, ni Mahoning County, he was united in marriage with Denisa Henderson, a native of Portage County, Ohit), and a sister of .John Henderson, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this W(.)rk. In the spring of 185U, they came to Illi- nois, locating first in Putnam County, where Mr. Phillips worked with his father-in-law for one3'car. In 1860, they removed to Kansas, settling near Lawrence, but, after one summer spent in that State, returned to Illinois, and again located in Putnam County, where Mr. Phillips purcliased a sawmill and engaged in the manufacture of lumber. After six years he sold out, and, in Ihe fall of 1«()7, came to lord County. In the meantime, on the 11th of May, 1861, he joined Comi)any 15, of the One Hundred and Tliir- ty-ninlh Illinois Infantry, and served until the following October. On his arrival in this county, he purch.ased a tract of wild laud of eighty .acres, and began its development, building fences, plow- ing and cultivating his land and making a good home. Ills farm is now one of the desirable places in this locality, and he is recognized as one of the thrifty and enterprising agriculturists of IJutttm Townshi|>. In 1882, Mr. Phillips w.as called uiion to unburn the loss of his wife, who died on the 13th of Octo- ber, leaving four children: William Henderson, who is married, and follows the printing business in Grand Crossing, 111.; Albert II., who operates the home falm; Elizabeth, wife of Henry France, of Sawyer, Kan.; and Ella Fiances, who is attending the home school. Mr. Phillips was again married, November 24, 1886, his second union being with Martha A. Ivoss, a native of Pennsylvania, and a daughter of Samuel II. Ross. They are both mem- bers of the United Presb3'terian Church of Rankin. In politics, Mr. Phillips is a stalwart Republican, having supported eveiy Presidential nominee of that party since he cast his first vote for Hon. .John C. Fremont. He has held the ottice of Commis- sioner of Highways for several years, and has been a member of the School Ikiard. His i)ublic duties have ever been faithfully discharged, and he is alike true to every private trust. =^^>^^f .lauesville, Wis., where he 232 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAI HICAL RECORD. learned telegraphy, at which he worked until he caiue to Sibley, in 1885. For some time after lo- cating here, he was emi)lo3ed in the Sibley estate oflice under Mr. Bicket as assistant book-keeper, and after three years took the contract of putting in all tiie tiling on the Sibley estate, and still is manager of that branch of the business connected with that vast property. In the year 1888, he had laid one hundred and flfty-flve miles of tiling. On the 8th of June, 1888, Mr. Diers married Miss Susan Robbins, daughter of James and Jane (Scott) Robbins. Unto them have been born three children: Frederick, born in 188i»; Raymond, who was liorn in 1890 and died on the 8th of May, 1891, and Cecil, born March 3, 1892. In connection with his other business industries, Mr. Diers established a nursery at Sibley in 1890, and the following >'ear added to this a greenhouse. He is also editor of the Sibley Gazette, which was establislied in 1892 and has a circulation of liiree hundred. In politics, he is a supporter of Repub- lican princiiiles and was elected Township Clerk in 1891. lie is a member of tlie Masonic order and a charter member of the Modern Woodmen. Ho be- longs to the German Lutheran Church, and is a public-spirited citizen and one favorably known throughout this community. ■^flAMES E. CRAMMOND, tlie oldest grocer in Gibson City in years of business at that place, as well as one of its most enterprising and (prosperous citizens, establislied trade there in July, 1873. In the fall of that year, he built the first bric]< building in the cit}', and tlie following year occupied it, carrying on business there for nearly ten years, or until it was destroyed by Are on the night of January 30, 1883. It was 23x64 feet, two stories in height, with a basement, and, in its day, was one of the best business blocks in the city. He rebuilt tlie following summer, but the second building is one stor}' in heiglit, with a basement, and is 25x100 feet. The store-room is sixteen feet high. Mr. Crammond does an annual business of from $8,000 to 810,000, and carries a full and complete line of staple and fancy grocer- ies, queensware, wooden-ware and provisions. The subject of this sketch was born in Hawes- ville, Hancock County, Ky., August 22, 1852, and is a son of John and Eliza (Augustus) Crammond. His father was born in Scotland, and came to America when a lad of fourteen summers, and set- tled in Kentucky', wliere he was afterward married. He was a steamboat owner, his boats plying on the Ohio River. His death occurred in March, 1867. Tlie mother was born in Louisville, Ky., in 1824, and died in August, 1878. James E. was educated in tlie i)rivate schools of his native State, and from an early age was em- ployed on his father's steamboats as a pilot on the Ohio, until the spring of 1873. On the 28th of May, of that year, he was married, in his native county, to Mary H. Davidson. Mrs. Crammond was born in Hawesville, Hancock County, Ky.,and was a daughter of N. C. Davidson, formerly of Kentucky, but now of Farmer City, 111. Imraediatel\' after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Crammond settled in Gibson City, Ford County, 111. In July, 1873, he began business as a grocer in Gibson, as previously stated. He has now been in business in that city for nearly twent3- years, having one of the best stores in his line. On the 3d of December, 1889, Mrs. Crammond passed away, leaving six children, three sons and three daughters: Daisy E., Maggie H., John D., .James E., AVilliam C, and Lucile M., all of whom were born in Gibson City. Mrs. Crammond was a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church, a kind and affectionate wife and mother, and her loss was a sad lilow to her husband and children. She left many friends in this community, where she was beloved by all who knew her. She was a lineal descendant of the Hardin family, one of the most distinguished families of Kentucky. Mr. Crammond is an active inemlier of tlie same church to which his wife belonged, and has been a mem- ber of its Board of Trustees for six years, and President of the same for four years. The older children also hold membership with the Presby- terian Church. In politics, Mr. Crammond is a Democrat and an earnest supporter of the principles of that party. '(MmaL- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 235 Although living in n Repuliliean town, he has through personal popularity- been chosen to fill various local otfices. He has been Village Trustee five years, and President of the Board for two years. He has served three years as Director of the Gibson School Board, and has recentlj' been re-elected for another term of the same number of years, and has also held the office of Clerk of the Board of Education. For three years he has been Chairman of the Ford County Democratic Com- mittee, being an active and influential man in the local councils of his party. He is a member of Gibson Lodge No. 542, 1. O. O. F.,and of Brothers' Encampment No. 158, of the same order. He has filled the official chairs of tlie subordinate lodge and encampment, has been representative to the Grand Bodies of the State, and is tlie present Dis- trict Deputy-. He holds membership with Canton Ford Patri.-irch Militant No. 55, and of Drummer Lodge No. l,Gll,Iv. of H., being presiding officer of the last-named body at one time, and is the present F'inancial and Corresponding Reporter or Secretarj'. He belongs to the Board of Directors of the Building and Loan Association of Gibson Cit}'. Enterprise, public spirit and integrity have characterized Mr. Crammond's course in life, while his intercourse with both acquaintance and stranger is always marked b\- courtesy and kindness. •5'^E«= _V fflOMAS R. WT LEY, M. D., B. S., the pioneer physician and surgeon of Gibson City, or the oldest in years of practice now residing there, was born near Colfax, McLean County, 111., .June 19, 1844. His parents were Lyttle R. and Sarah R. Wiley. The father was a native of Ken- tucky, born near Lexington, on the 16th of November, 181K, and came to Illinois in 1840, en- gaging in farming in McLean County. His mar- riage was celebrated in Indiana, his wile being a native of that Slate, born in Switzerland County. He died in November, 1889, but her death occurred at her home in McLean County, this State, in Sep- tember, 1885. Thom.as R. was reared on a farm until twenty years of age and after attending the preparatory schools, took a full collegiate course at the Illinois Wesleyan University, being graduated with the degree of B. S. in tiie class of 1871. He then be- gan the study of medicine with Dr. Hill, of Blooni- ingtoii, and later took a course of lectures at the Michigan State University at Ann Arbor. Later he attended Rush Medical College of Chicago, where he further fitted himself for the practice of his profession, and was graduated in the class of Feb- ruary, 1874. The following March he established practice in Gibson City, which he has continued with marked success to the present time. He is a member of the Illinois Central Medical Association and of the National Railway Surgeons' Association. He has been the local surgeon of the Illinois Cen- tral Railroad for four years and is examining phy- sician and surgeon for the following named insur- ance companies and societies: New York Life, New York Mutual, the Equitable of New York, New York Home; Aetna, of Hartford; Nortliwestern Mutual, of Milwaukee, Wis.; Franklin, of Hartford, Conn.; the INIutual, of Hartford, Travelers', and others. On the 17th of June, 1874, Dr. Wiley was mar- ried in Bloomington, 111., to Miss Mattie E. Reeves, a daughter of O. S. Reeves. Mrs. Wiley was born in McLean County, and was reared in Lero}', 111. She is a devoted member of the Christian Church and one of its earnest workers. Her father died when she was a child and her mother, who still survives her husband, makes her home in Bloom- ington. Dr. and Mrs. Wiley have one child, a daughter, Beulali Belle, who was liorn in Gibson City. The Doctor is a member of the Methodist Epis- copal Church and, in political sentiment, is indepen- dent. He has been chosen by his fellow-citi- zens to various official positions of honor and trust. He was the second Piesident, of Gibson Village Board. For several years he has been a member of tiie Village School Board, for three years of that time serving as its President and has shown much interest in the advancement of edu- cation. He was one of the organizers of the People's International Investment and Loan Asso- 236 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. ciatiou, of which lie has been its President, and a director. He is also interested in the land syndi- cate that h."i.s invested in tiie city real estate under the title of the Gibson Land Improvement Com- pany. In addition to valuable city property, Dr. Wiley is the owner of a fine farm of five hundred and thirty acres, situated in tlie town of Brown, Champaign County, which he leases. The Doctor is a physician and surgeon of recognized abilitj', thorough culture and large experience. He has been eminently successful in his practice, accumu- lating a valuable property, and has won a foremost place among the skilled of liis profession in East- ern and Cciitial Illinois. WALLACE SHUMWAY LAMB, the leading fui'niture dealer of Gibson City, is num- bered among the energetic young business men who are lapidly advancing that town to the first place in business importance of any in the coujit3'. His parents, John and Mary (Shumway) Lamb, were among the early settlers of Stephen- son County, 111., whither the father emigrated in 1840, his wife moving there at a later date. After their marriage, they located on a farm, Mr. Lamb becoming a well-to-do farmer. He was a native of Kentucky and his wife of Ohio, but since coming to Illinois they have made their home in Stqjhenson County, Mr. Lamb still residing in Yellow Creek at the age of sevent3'-seveu j'ears. His wife, who was an active member of the Baptist Church, died in that faith in 1886. Politically, he w.as a Whig, but when the question of al)olishing human slavery arose, he threw his influence in that direction, making public addresses as well as private argu- ments. Since the rise of the Republican party, he h.as been a strong advocate of its principles though not an otlice-seeker. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Lamb consisted of seven chddren, five sous and two daughters, all of whom are-still living. Our subject, who was born in Freeport, 111., May 5, 1862, is the youngest of the family, and until the age of sixteen j'ears he spent his time on the farm and in the district schools. He subsequently pursued a business course at Dixon, 111., graduate ing in 1881, and the following four jears was book-keeper for Seelej' it Read, of Freeport. Hav- ing served three years in the wholesale carpet de- partment of Marshall Field & Co., of Chicago, he established business on his own account in Wilcox, Neb. In 1888, he came to Gibson City and suc- ceeded S. L. Ilarnit & Co. in the furniture busi- ness, and the firm title adopted is W. S. Lamb ct Co. They carry the largest stock of furniture in the county, to which they have added an under- taking business. Their main store, one hundred feet deep, fronts on Galena Avenue, the principal business street of the town, while a fortj'-foot store- room fi-onts on the street on the south. Besides, they have a two-story warehouse, and all are filled with select goods. Mr. Lamb is a genial, wide- awake young man, justly deserving the success he has met in his financial undertakings. Mr. Lamb visited Shawneetown, 111., and wiiile there was married, on the 10th of March, 1887, to Miss Abbie A. Edwards, a native of that i)laee. By this marri.agc have been born two children: Wilber E. and Wallace S. In religious belief, both Mr. and Mrs. Lamb are members of the Presbyte- rian Church, and, in politics, he is a Republican. Socially, he is a member of the Masonic order and' of the Knights of Pythias. ^Y/ AMES D. HALL is an honored pioneer of what is now Ford County and resides in Paxton. He came to the county in F^ebru- ary, 1852, and soon after his settlement here, the Tax Collector called at his house and told him that there were then but eighteen settlers' cabins in the region now embraced in Ford Countj', that was set off from Vermilion. Mr. ILall was born in the town of Adelphi, Ross County, Ohio, April 10, 1821, and is a son of James and Hester (Hilleiy) Hall. His parents were from Cumberland County, Md.,and settled in Ohio prior to the War of 1812, in which his father and uncles took part. In his j'onth, our subject learned the blacksmith's trade and in 1830 worked in PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 237 Indiana, locating near Attica, where he engaged in farm work and teaming, receiving for one j'ear's services only ¥!100. Two years later, he removed to Warren Connty of the same State, where he rented a farm for two years. In the summer of 1814, in company with nine others, he entered eleven hundred acres of Government land on the prairie by pre-emption, and the first _year a part of this was broken and planted in crops. The fol- lowing year, Mr. Hall had his share separated and afterward added to his farm by subsequent pur- chase. In a small wa}', he began dealing in cattle and continued buying, raising and selling until he did an extensive business in that line. In 1851, he took a drove of cows through to Northern Wis- consin, selling them in Oshkosh, that State. On his return, he prospected for a location in Illinois, and in February, 1852, settled in what was known as Henderson's Grove, then in Vermilion but now in Ford County. There he engaged in farming and stock-raising. Mr. Hall was married in Fountain County, Ind., in 1811. the lady of his choice being Miss Eliza A. Wisman, a native of Virginia, and a daughter of John Wisman. Five children were liorn of their union, but onl}' two are now living. Henry C, the eldest, wedded Miss Mary Pierpont and is en- gaged in the grain business inPaxton; Hester died in infancT; William F. was drowned in the Missis- sippi River when eighteen years of age; and Rebecca, widow of David II. Snyder, resides in Paxton. Mr. Hall made his home in Henderson's Grove until the spring of 1851, when he bought a tract of land on section 33, Patton Township. He is said to have built the fir.st frame house north of the Vermilion River, in what is now Ford County. His farm contained two hundred and eighty-six acres and was one of the best in the county. In 1860, he was elected Sheriff of Ford County and served a term of two 3ears in that office. On his election to the position, he removed to Paxton, re- turning to his farm at the close of his term of ser- vice and in 1865 again came to Paxton, where, in company with his son, Henry C, he engaged in the grain trade. In 1869, we again find him upon the farm but he also continued business as a grain dealer. Since 1885, he has resided in the city. He exercises his right of franchise in support of the Republican party, and in his views on the subject of religion is an avowed atheist. Mr. Hall is one of the oldest surviving pioneers of Ford County and well deserves mention among her early settlers. ICHAEL H. DOLAN is well deserving of representation in the history of Ford County, for he is an enterprising citizen of Roberts. He claims New York as the State of his nativity. He was born in Lockport, March 28, 1859, and is the eldest of ten children, six sons and four daughters, born unto John and Belle (Hooks) Dolan. His father, a native of Ire- land, was born in Ma}^, 1819, and was reared as a stock-raiser. On attaining his majority, he crossed the briny deep and became a resident of Canada, where he remained for two years, when he w^ent to Lockport, N. Y., and was foreman in a stone quarry for some time. He became one of the pio- neers of Farmer City, 111., removing thence when it contained only two stores. He is now one of the three oldest citizens of that place and himself and wife are classed among its prominent people. They are members of the Catholic Church and he has been a supporter of Democratic principles since coming to America. The seven children of the Dolan family yet liv- ing are Michael H., of this sketch; James, an em- ploye of the Illinois Central Railroad Company; Edward, who is agent on the Big Four Railroad at Farmer City, 111.; Robert, who is operator at the same place; Phoebe, who is clerking for Bu- ford Brothers, of Farmer City; Anna, who is one of the successful teachei's of Ford County, and Nellie, who is engaged in dress-making in Farmer City. Our subject was quite young when he came with his parents to the West and in Farmer City he acquired his education. He left the parental roof and began life for himself at the age of twenty-four years, and since August, 1880, has re- 238 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. sided in Roberts, being employed as a section fore- man of the Illinois Central Kailroad. Mis long continued service with one company indicates his faithful performance of duty and tlie confi'lence reposed in him Itj' his employers. On the 20th of December, 188.3, Mr. Dolan was united in marriage with ]\Iiss Sadie Eisaman, who was l)orn in Woodford Connty, 111., May 12, 1862. They were married in Paxton and their union has been l)lessed with two little daughtei's: Edna Pearl, aged seven, and Ina. The mother is a member of the Metiiodist Churcli of Roberts. The Dolan household is the abode of hospitality and its doors arc ever open for the reception of the many friends of (nii- suiijrct and wife. Mr. Dolan on questions of national importance votes with the Democratic party, but at local elec- tions votes for the man whom he thinks best qual- ified for the office, regardless of part\' aftiliations. For two j'ears he has served as one of the Village Trustees of Roberts, and has proved an ellicient oHicer. He is an honored member of Lyman Lodge No. 293, K. P., of Roljerts, which he joined on its organization and is n()w serving as Prelate. An open-hearted, generous man, he has given liber- ally for the support of all enterprises calculated to prove of ((ublic benefit, and is a citizen of sterling worth. ^ILLIAM A. HUTCHISON, engineer, of Clarence, Ford County, 111., is a native of Ohio, born in Holmes County, December 16,1850. His grandfather. Col. William Hutch- ison, was a native of Pennsylvania but of Scotch parentage. After attaining his m.ajority, he moved, in about 1800, to Holmes County, Ohio, where he became a prominent and influential citizen, being the first .Judge of Holmes County, and a C'olonel of the militia. His father, Samuel I. Hutchison, grew to manhood in Holmes Count}- and there married Mary Rodgers, a nativeof Wajne County, Ohio, and a daughter of John Rodgers, who was one of the pioneer settlers of tiiat county. After their marriage, he was engaged in agricultural pur- suits in his native county for a number of years. He enlisted in the one-hundred-day S(!rvice for the late war and served during the term of his en- listment. In 1868, he moved to Illinois and set- tled in Button Township, Ford County, where he opened up a farm on which he resided for a num- ber of years. He died in Clarence, March 4, 1892. His wife survives him and resides with her son. They had a family of three sons and one daughter, all of wliom are living and are heads of families. William A. is tiie ehlest; John, a farmer in Button Township, is the next in order of birth; Irvin is an engineer residing in Rochester, Ind.; and i;iizaljeth is the wife of R. M. Garsuch, a prosper- ous farmer of Button Township. William A. Hutchison came with his parents to Ford County when a young man of eighteen j-ears. His youth was spent on a farm and in at- tending the common schools of his native .State. He also attended school a short time after locating in Illinois. He continued in agricultural pursuits until 1876, when he gave up farming and en- gasjed in merchandisins' in the villasje of Clarence. He was appointed Postmaster of the place and served in that cap.acity for twelve years. When he sold out his mercantile business, he engaged in running a stationary engine in Clarence, in which business he is_yet engaged. He is the owner of a good farm adjoining the village and has also good residence propertj' both in Clarence and Paxton. Mr. Hutchison was united in marriage, in Lo- gan County, Ohio, in November, 1876, to Miss Margaret Ghormaley, a native of Ohio. By this marriage there are four children: Owen, Mary, Elsie and an infant. There are eight years' dif- ference in the ages of the last two children, and both were born on the same d.ay of the same month, the first, February- 29, 1884, and the latter, Febru- ary 29, 1892. Mv. Hutchison is identified with the Republi- can party, of which he has been an earnest sup- porter since his majority. He has served in sev- eral local positions, having been Collector of But- ton Township, also Clerk and Assessor. He is a man of good business habits and is one of the most enterprising men of the village, in which he has ^^5. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD 241 resided for fifteen j-ears. He was tlie first to lo- cate at the place and weiglied the first load of grain marketed in the village. He and bis wife are mcmljers of the Presbyterian Church, and are held in the highest esteem by all who know them. A most worthy citizen, a good friend and neigh- bor, he well deserves reiiresentation in this volume. -^i ^-A^P= ANIEL 11. ANDREWS, a f.armcr rehidiug on section 7, Wall Township, is a native of Illinois, born in Fulton County, on the 2.5th of October, 18,50, and is a son of Ilarman Andrews, who was born in New York, and was of English descent. When veiy young, his father died, and he was compelled to begin life for himself. He worked for a time as a farm hand, but at the age of fourteen began learning the ship car- penter's trade, at which he was employed untd the age of twenty-two. He followed this occupation chiefly with his brothers, in New Orleans. In 1842, Mr. Andrews came to Illinois, settling in Fulton County, and began the cultivation of a farm, lie enlisted in this State under Col. E. D. liaker in the Mexican War, and was made Cor|)oral, serving one year. Harman Andrews was united in marriage in Ful- ton County, November 22, 1843, to Eliza Peter- son, who was a native of Ohio, but of German de- scent. They became the parents of eight children, three sons and five daughters: Flora, who died April 14, 1870; Benjamin C, a farmer of Wall Township, this county, was born on the 27th of September, 1846, and his sketch appears on an- other page of this work; Julia C, born September 24, 1848, died in 1878; our subject is the next in order of birth; .Tosiah S., born November 24, 1852, was called to his final rest October 15, 1854; Sarah E., wife of Charles Brandenburg, of Nebraska, was born on the 13th of March, 1855: James II., a farmer of Wall Township, was born September 25, 1857; and Eliza Jane, born June 13, 1861, was the ■wife of C. C. Broadus, and is now deceased. The father of this family served for two years' as Captain of Company (i. Forty-seventh Illinois Infantry, in the late war. Resigning that command. he returned home and raised another company, becoming its Captain. It wa.s mustered into the service as Company A, of the One Hundred and Fifty-first Illinois Infantry. With this company he served until the close of the war. He was wounded at the battle of Corinth, a piece of shell shattering his left arm, after which he was taken prisoner, but at the end of sixteen days was pa- rolled. Capt. Andrews participated in several im- portant engagements, including that at Island No. 10, luka. New Madrid and Corinth, and was in the Vicksburg campaign until the fall of that city. He received his discharge in January, 1866. From Fulton County, Capt. Andrews removed to IMarshall County, this State, where he laid his land warrant in 1855, and there engaged in farm- ing until his death, which occurred on the 27th of February, 1875, at the age of fifty-five years, his birth being on the 29th of January, 1820. His wife followed him to the final home only thirteen days later, and both were buried in Marshall County. In religious belief, he was a Methodist, and sociall}' was a member of the Odd Fellows' fra- ternity. He took an active part in political affairs, and was first a Whig, but on the organization of the Republican party, became one of its stanch sup- porters, and was a strong Lincoln man. He served for two terms as County Treasurer of Marshall County. Daniel H. Andrews was reared to manhood on his father's farm, where he remained until past the age of twenty-one, receiving his literary education in the district schools. At the age of thirteen, when his father was fighting for the Union, he as- sisted his mother in the management of the home farm. When he had reached his majority, he be- gan life for himself as a farmer in Marshall County, where he remained one year, and then came to Ford County, where he has since made his home. He is now the owner of two hiindrtd and seventy acres of arable land, but on coming to this county, he only purchased ninety acres. He is now en- gaged in general farming and stock-raising, being a breeder of fast horses, and is one of the enter- prising farmers of the community. Our sul)ject was married in Marshall County. March 5, 1872, to Miss Minnie Durfey. She is a 242 i'ORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. native of Oliio, born on the 29th of October, 1850, and the fourth in a family of eight chil- dren born unto Reuben and I^lmily M. (Vining) Durfey. Her parents were both natives of Ohio. Throughout the greater part of his life, her father has followed the occupation of farming. Attracted by tlic discovery of gold, lie went to California in 1850, making his way across the plains. He was quite successful in his mining operations, and after about a year, returned by the Isthmus of Panama. The old money belt whijsh he brought with him is now in the Durfey home. He is a member of the Presbyterian Cliurch. His wife, who died in 1874, was also a member of the Presbyterian Church. Of their family, five are yet living: Elmer, who is married and resides with his wife and three chil- dren upon a farm in Ohio; Sarah, wife of John Davis, a resident farmer of Delaware, Ohio; Mrs. Andrews, wife of our subject; Alice, wife of Clar- ence Manter, of Ohio; Elsie, who is married and resides in Delaware, Ohio; Girard, the eldest of the family, was one of the bojs in blue. He en- listed in Company C, Fourth Ohio Infantry, under Capt. Crawford, and his regiment was assigned to tlie Army of the Potomac. He was wounded at the battle of Bull Run, losing all the fingers of his right hand, after which he never enjoyed a day's health. In 1865, he was married, but liis wife died In 1876, leaving a son. In October, 1888, death relieved him of his sufferings while an inmate of Washington Hospital, where he had gone for treatment. Mrs. Andrews spent her ni.iidenhood days under the parental roof, and, after attending the common schools, was for two years a student in the select school and one and a half years in the female sem- inary of Delaware, Ohio, after which she tried teaching in her native county. She is a lady of culture and refinement, and pre.sides with grace over her hospit.able liome. Unto our subject and his wife have been born nine children: Frankie, born July 14, 1873, died Januarj' 15, 1876; Fannie, born February 22, 1875; Orville, July 17, 1876; Otis, December 28, 1878; Willie, March 24, 1880; Alice, February 8, 1882; Maggie, February 14, 1884; Minnie, M.arch 21, 1889; and Hazel, .lanii- ,ar}' 25, 1891; all of whom are with their parents. Mr. Andrews and his wife are consistent mem- bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Melvin, and take an active interest in its work. He is a strong Republican in his political sentiment, but h.is never been an olHce-seeker, though he does much for the advancement of the party. Socially, he is a member of the Sons of Veterans, being the present Commander of Camp No. 369, of Melvin. He is one f)f the prominent citizens of Wall Town- ship, .and is liheral with his me.ans in the advance- ment of those enterprises for the benelit of the community. 'X, jiA LLI AM E. THOMPSON, who is recognized \/\/// ^^ ^"'^ °^ ^'^^ rising young business men ^^U of Melvin, is a memlier of the Thompson Company, dealers in farm implements, lumber and paints. Ijelinont County, Ohio, is the place of his nativity, and February 9, 1863, the date of his birth. With his parents, John M. and Jane (Day) Thompson, he came to Illinois in 1865, and since 1872 he has been a resident of Melvin. After leaving the public schools of that jilace, he spent two years in the liter.ary department of Wesleyan University at Bloomington, 111. Subsequently he pursued a commercial course in the same institu- tion, graduating with the Class of '83. Soon thereafter he entered his father's implement and lumber establishment, continuing until 1886, when he and his uncle, W. H. Thompson, became part- ners iji the implement and lumber trade, assuming the firm title of Thompson Company. They have an extensive patronage, which has been won by fair and honorable dealing. It is no ex:iggeration to say that thej', both as individuals and as a busi- ness firm, have the unallo3'ed confidence of the community. On the 11th of November, 1885, Mr. Thompson wedded Miss Maggie Stather. The lady is a na tive of Canada, but in girUiood came with her parents to Ford County, where she has since made her home. Unto Mr. and INIrs. Thompson were born three children, but Elma J. is the onl3' one surviving. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 243 two having died in infanoy. Both he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and, in political principles, he is a stanch Republi- can, taking an active interest in the success of his partj-. Socially, Mr. Thompson is a member of Lodge No. 179, K. P., having p.assed through all the chairs, and of the Odd Fellows' society. No. l.')9. For eiglit years he has served as No- tary Public. In all the relations of life he h.as shown himself a man. He is a gentleman of su- perior ability- and accomplishments. During liis school life, whether in public school or in college, he always stood among tlie best students in his cl.ass, and in business circles he takes a front rank. ?RANK B. FAGERBURO, proprietor of the ^l Bon Ton Boot and Shoe Store, is one of the leading young business men of the city, wide-awake and enterprising. He has been en- g.aged in his present line for only a few months but has already won a liberal patronage and his store is rapidly gaining favor with the public. Mr. Fagerburg was born in Shelbjville, Shelby County, 111., on the 21st of .September, 1863, and is a son of Alfred and Catherine (.Johnson) Fagerburg. His parents were born in Sweden and, leaving their native laud in 18.53, crossed the Atlantic to Am- erica, settling in Rockford, 111. They now reside in McLean Count}- of this .State, where the father is engaged in farming. We now take up the personal iiistory of tlie gentleman whose name heads this sketch. He re- ceived liberal educational advantages, attended Augustana College of Rock Island, where he learned the Swedish langu.agc, and w.as graduated from the Wesleyan University in the Class of '80, following which he took a course at the Business College of Bloomington, 111., and was graduated from that institution in 1881. Having thus been well-fitted for a business career, he then .accepted the position of .assistant p.aymaster of the Chicago it Alton Railroad Company, which he held for six and a half years, being a trusted employe of the road. He then went to Boston and for two years was secretary for the superintendent of motive power for the New York and New England R:iil- road Company'. At the expiration of tliat time, he came to Paxton, and since December, 181)1, has been engaged in his present business. In Bloom- ington, 111., September 25, 1884, he wedded .lessie L. Wolcott, who died about a year later. One child of this marriage, Rudolph F., died in in- fancy. On the 2d of May, 1890, Mr. Fagerburg was uni- ted in marriage with Miss Charlotte F. Anderson, a native of this State, born in Champaign, and a daughter of Peter Anderson. lie and his wife both belong to the Evangelical Lutheran Church, and, in his political affiliations, he is a Reiniblican, having supported that party since he attained his majority. Soci.ally, Mr. P\agerburg is a Knight Templar M.ason, holding membership with Paxton Lodge No. 416, A. F. & A. M.; Ford Chapter No. 113, R. A. M.; and Mt. Olivet Commandery No. 38, K. T. He also belongs to Paxton Lodge I. O. O. F. He is one of the live young business men of Pax- ton, has a well-stocked and tasty store and is building up a prosperous and increasing trade, which he well merits. ' ^AUL KOESTNER, deceased, was for some Jl) 3'ears a well-known and prominent farmer ^ of Ford County, and it is but meet that this I \ sketch of his life be given in the history of his adopted county. He was a native of Bavaria, Germ.any, born on the 20th of August, 1851, and was one of eight children whose paren ts, .lohu and Catherine Koestner, where also of German birth. Our subject spent his early boyhood d.ays in his native land and in 1866, when a lad of fifteen years, came to America. Crossing the ocean, he Landed at New York City, continuing his Westward journey until he arrived in Henry, Marshall County, 111., where he began life for himself as a farm hand, working by the month. He there spent several years and in 1871 came to Ford County, where he continued to make his iiomc un- 244 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. til his death. For two .years, he continued to work upon a farm by the month and then rented land both in Wall and Peacli Orchard Townships. He also gave considerable attention to stock-raising and it was while on his wa}' to Chicago with stock that he met liis death in a railroad accident on the nth of .lanuar}', 1888. He was then but in the prime of life and his loss was a deep blow to his family and friends. His remains were brought back to Ford County and interred in Melvin Cemetery. In politics, he was a Demf)crat and was a worthy and respected citizen of the community. The lady who bears the name of iNIrs. Koestner was in her maidenhood Jliss Fannie Holmes, daughter of W. B. and Eliza (Wrenn) Holmes, who were tiie first white settlers to make a permanent location in Peach Orcliard Township. A sketch of their lives is given on another page of this work. Mrs. Koestner was the first child born in that township, and she remained under the parental roof until her marriage on the 23d of March, 1881. By this union were born three cliildien, two of whom are j'ct living: Frankie and William, who make their home with their mother. Henry, the eldest, died August 22, 1884. Mrs. Koestner, since her husband's deatli, has removed to Melvin, where she opened a boot and shoe store which she still carries on. She is a lady of good liusiness ability, characterized by industry and enterprise, and in her commercial efforts is meeting with good success which she justly deserves. W| AMES HOCK, a pioneer of the territorj- now comprising Ford County, who dates his first coming here from 1852, and perma- nently settled at what is now the city of Pax- ton in the winter of 1853-4, was born in Fountain County, Ind., November 5, 1834, and is a son of Jacob and Amy (Leatherman) Hock. His father was twice married and James was the youngest of the second family of children. There were eight children in all who grew to mature years. Mr. Hock, Sr., was a native of Pennsylvania, and dur- ing his childhood removed with his parents to Preble County, Ohio. In the Buckeye State, he was married and then took up his residence in Fountain County, Ind., where he spent the re- mainder of his days, dying at the age of fifty-two years. His wife, the mother of our subject, was born in Ohio, and died in middle life. In 1852, James Hock came to Illinois to what is now Ford County, but made no permanent settle- ment. The following summer he returned to Ind- iana and, in the spring of 1853, we once more find him in Illinois. During the greater part of the succeeding summer, he was employed in hauling timber for bridge and culvert building on the Illi- nois Central Railroad through Iroquois County, and also engaged at farm work. In the winter of 1853-4, he returned to Ford County and made his home a mile from Prairie City, now Paxton. For a while he rented land and was engaged in farm- ing. A few j'ears later, he removed to the neigh- borhood of Danville, where he followed agricul- tural pursuits. On the 27tli of March, 1859, in Prairie City, Mr. Hock was united in marriage with Miss Cordelia Day, a daughter of Samuel and Peggy (Puviance) Day. Siie was born in Preltle Count}-, Ohio, and came to Illinois in the fall of 1851 vvith her par- ents, the family settling in Paxton in the summer of 1854. A sketch of her father appears elsewhere in this work. Mr. and Mr. Hock have two chil- dren, a son and a daughter: Clara, now the wife of George Laybourn, a resident of Duluth, Minn., and Ross, who is engaged in the lumber business in Peoria. In 1866, Mr. Hock purchased a quarter-section of land on section 34, township of Wall, Ford County, adjoining the north line of Patton Town- ship, and situated about four miles northwest of the city of Paxton, which he still owns and which is one of the best improved and most valucil farms of Ford County. There he engaged in farming and stock-raising until 1871, when he removed to Paxton and engaged in the live-stock business, continuing operations in that line very successfully for twelve years. Later he was engaged in the grain and farm implement business and for a time was in the groceiy business in Paxton, also was c^tr-^ ^^^^^^^-^^^JL PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 247 owner of a lumber yard for a year. At the pres- ent time, he is practically living a retired life, at- Icniling only to the care of his property. Himself and wife are miimbcrs of the Congregational Church and tlicir daughter of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and, in politics, Mr. Hock is a Republican, having supported that party siuce he cast his first Presidential vote for .John C. Fremont. AVilh the exception of an interval of two years, he has made his home in Ford County since coming here forty j-ears ago, and is highly esteemed for his integrity of character and the upright and manly spirit that has always marked his intercourse with his fellow- citizens. ■^ ^^- -h SHO.MAS M< NEISII. who was one of the most (irorainent citizens of Roberts, was born in Dumbartonshire, Scotland, March 2i 184.S. His parents were Thomas and Jean (Dun- can) McNeish. His father was a boot and shoe- )naker by trade and was an excellent workman. He crossed the Atlantic in 1832, and, after three years spent in Penusj'lvania, came to Ford County, where he [lurchased eighty acres of raw laud and made a farm. He and his wife were members of the Presbyterian Church in Scotland, and joined the United Brethren in Ford County. They were up- right citizens, who had the respect of all. Mr. McNeish was laid to rest in Benton Harbor, IMich., and his wife was buried in Roberts. They had two sons and three daughters: Margaret, wife of Mr. Watt, a retired boot and shoe merchant, of Scot- land; Marian, wife of John Mason, of Pennsylva- nia; and Thomas, of this sketch. Our subject was twent^'-one jears of age wlien he came to Ford County. He followed farming for a number of years, and when Roberts was laid out, purchased a lot in the village and began the manufacture of boots and shoes. He afterward engaged in the harness business. He commenced life for himself empty-handed, and, by his persis- tent efforts, acquired a comfortable competence. His example is well worthy of emulation. Mr. McNeish was joined in wedlock with Miss Isabella Burnett, a native of Dumfriesshire, Scot- land. Their union was celebrated September 1, 1873, .and unto them have been born nine children, three sons and six daughters, of whom three are now deceased: Jeanne carries on the harness and shoe store, with the aid of Frank L. Hanson. She was educated in the graded schools of Benton Harbor, Mich., and of Roberts. With her father, she took a trip to England and Scotland, in June, 1890. They sailed from New York to (ilasgow, and went to Cumbernauld, the old homestead of Mr. McNeish. They remained in Europe until the following September, and visited Edinburg, (il.as- gow, the Trossachs, Dumbarton Castle, Sterling, Perth, Rothesay, Inverness, Ben Nevis, Loch Lo- mond, Ellen's Isle, Ayr, Greenock, and Paisley. Over many miles of thLs delightful country they journeyed on foot, feasting on the beautiful Scotch scenery. They also visited the home of Robert Burns, and the great exposition in Edinburg, and spent eight days in the city of London, where they saw the Cr3'Stal Palace, Hampton Court Palace, the London Docks, Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament, Cleopatra's Needle, the Sphinxes, St. Paul's Cathedral, and Prince Al- bert's monument in Hyde Park, which cost £1,- 000,000. They also visited the Zoological Gar- den, the British Museum, and Regent's Park. In September they returned from Glasgow as passen- gers on board the "State of Indiana." On the return trip they encountered a severe storm, but at length reached New York in safety. The other members of the family are Mary, Harris, Agnes, John Wilson, and Ellen Isabella, all of whom are at school, except the latter, who completes the family. Mr. McNeish was a Democrat and took quite an interest in political affairs. He was one of the honored members of the Town Council in Roberts, and socially, he was a Mason, and a member of the Knights of Labor. He was accidentally killed by a sk}' rocket, July 4, 1891, and his loss was de- plored by all who knew him, lor he w.as not onl\ a valued citizen, Ijut was an entertaining companion and faithful friend, lie was one of the kindest and best of iiusbands and his place in the family circle can never be filled. We here ipiote the words which were often upon his lips: 248 PORTEAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. "Again, the band of commerce was designed To associate all the branches of mankind; And if a boundless plenty be the robe, Trade is the golden girdle of the globe. Wise to promote whatever end He means, God opens fruitful Nature's various scenes; Each climate needs what other climes produce, And offers something to the general use; Nj land but listens to the common call And in return receives supply from all. This general intcrcoui-se and mutual aid Cheer what were else a universal shade. Calls Nature from her ivy-mantled den. And softens human rock-work into men." Mrs. McNeish still carries on the business in company with her daughter. .She has a pleasant home in Roberts and is one of its most estimable ladies, being held in high regard by all who know her. M. THOMPSON, a prominent merchant of Piper City, deals in dry goods, grocer- l ' ies, boots and shoes, and has one of the neatest and best-appointed stores of the place. He was born in Juniata Countj-, Pa., and Is a son of R. N. and Rebecca (Thompson) Thomp- son, the former born in Juniata County, and the latter in Chillicotlie. Ohio. The Thompson family was founded in America by a native of Scotland, in the early part of the seventeenth century. The great-grandfather of our subject served in the Re- volutionary War. R. N. Thompson was a farmer, and, in. 1851, emigrated to Hlinois, locating in Warren County. He came to Piper City in 1866, and engaged in farming in this localitj' until his death. He enlisted in the Eighty-third Illinois In- fantry for the late war, but was discharged on ac- count of disal)ility. In connection with Mr. Lewis, he served as land-agent for the Illinois Central Railroad. In politics, he was a Whig, and was among the first to espouse the cause of the Repub- lican part}-. He held membership with the United Presbjterian Church. His wife is still living, and makes her home in Colorado with her son. Unto this worthy couple were born the following children: A. M., of this sketch; Mary E., who died iu Piper City; Rebecca J., wife of J. J. Greenlee, of Kansas; Mrs. Sarah I. Williamson, also living in Kansas; Thomas S., who served for a short time in the Sevent>' -seventh Illinois Regiment during the late war; Mrs. Florence A. Shotwell. who makes her home in Kansas; Julia A., who went with her mother to Colorado for her health; David S., who is engaged in business in Greeley, Col.; and Ida, a teacher of Kansas. AVe now take up the personal history of our subject, who spent his boyhood days in AV'arren County, 111., and acquired a good education in the public schools and at Monmouth College. In 1861, at the age of eighteen, he left school to enlist in his country's service as a member of Company I, Fiftieth Illinois Infantry. The regiment assembled at (juinc}', and was sent into Missouri. The lirst engagement in which Mr. Thompson participated was at Ft. Henry. This was followed by the battles of Ft. Donelson, Pittsburg Landing, Corinth, Chattanooga, Rome, Resaca, and Altoona Pass. He saw the signals which Gen. Sherman made to "Hold the Fort," and with him made the celebrated march to the sea. The last engage- ment in which he took part was the battle of Ben- tonville, N. C. He then marched through Peteis- burg and Richmond to Washington, where he participated in the Grand Review. His term of service having expired, he then re-enlisted and served for four years as Corporal and Sergeant. He was honoral)ly discharged in Springlield, in 1865. Immediately upon the close of tlie war. Mr. Thompson returned home, and, in 1866, came to Ford County, where he embarkeil in farming in Brcnton Township, one mile south of l'ii>er Cily. He secured an unimproved tract of laud and en- gaged in its cultivation until 1869, when he began business with his brother-in-law, Jasper J. Greenlee, in a restaurant. A few years later, he bought out his partner's interest, and continued alone. For the past ten years he has been proprietor of a dry- goods and grocery store. In the meantime, he has spent three years in Dakota, but the business was carried on by his brother. In Dakota, he took up aGovernn ent claim in the Red River Valley, which he still holds. He began business with the small capital which he had saved iu the army and has (CC/tO^^nf PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 249 steadily worked his way upward until he is now a prosijerous merchant doing a thriving business. In 1876, Mr. Thompson married Miss Lizzie .Johnson, their union lieing celebrated in lilooni- ington, Tnd., her native city. She is a daughter of David and Jlary Johnson. Her father is now de- ceased, but her mother is .jij=^' 1)(;AR NORMAN .STEVENS, the efficient fe and popular Postmaster of Paxton since JL jj^ January 18, 1890, is a son and partner of Hon. N. E. Stevens, publisher, editor and propri- etor of the Paxton Record, the leading Republican paper of Ford County. (See the sketch of Hon. N. E. Stevens, elsewhere in this work.) The subject of this sketch claims IMinnesota as the Stale of his nativity, having been born in Wabasha County, on the 25th of July, 1858. His mother's maiden name was Adah Hulda Clark. t]dgar N. received his rudimentary education in the public schools of Paxton, during the years 1866 to 1874, inclusive. From that time, he was a student of the Paxton Higii School and graduated with hon- ors, after a three-years' course, in the Cla.ss of '77, being elected valedictorian of his class. This was the lirst class to graduate from the High School, the Principal at that time being Prof. T. L. Evans, and the Trustees, Col. Charles Bogardus, George W. Cruzen and W. 15. Travis. On leaving the High School, Mr. Stevens entered Knox Academy, where he remained to complete the classical fresh- man year of Knox College, in the spring of 1879, after which he took one term at the Illinois State University at Champaign, when he was forced by failing health to discontinue his studies. Mr. Stevens then entered his father's employ' in the office of the Paxton Record, having previ- ously served his apprenticeship while attending school, and, after a year and three months' service, was admitted to partnership in the business, on the 30th of March, 1881. He still maintains his connection with the paper. While in the Record olHce, Mr. Stevens edited the exchange column, was local editor several 3'ears and obtained a fair knowledge of journalistic work. At the same time, he waited on customers, read proofs, kept the ollice books, made contracts and, in the absence of the senior partner, had the management of the ollice. Soon after becoming a partner, he joined the Illi- nois State Press Association, of which body he is yet a member. During the session of the Thirty- fifth General Assembly, Mr. Stevens was chosen Clerk of the House Committees of Public Charities and Libraries, by recommendation of Representa- tive Charles Bogardus. He was elected Clerk of the Senate Committee on Judiciaiy, of which Sen- ator Hadley was Chairman, and of Agriculture, Horticulture and Farm Drainage, Senator Charles Bogardus, Chairman, during the Thirty-sixth Gen- eral Assembly. Since his appointment as Postmaster, Mr. Stev- ens has refitted and remodeled the post-office fix- tures and facilities and has furnished a good bur- glar-proof safe, the whole improvements costing about $850. The business of the office has steadily increased since the present incumbent took posses- sion. The business for the fiscal year of 1889, ex- clusive of the money order department, was 84,188; for 1890, it was $4,536 and for 1891, $5,404, the increase the first year being $347 and the second year, $868. During the fall of 1891, Mr. Stevens inspected the various post-offices in the county, by virtue of his position as Postmaster at the county seat. Our subject has been a member of the Congre- gational Church since fourteen years of age, was for a short time a member of the First Church of Christ in Galesburg, and has been actively identi- fied with church and Suiidaj-scliool work, lie is 250 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. the present »Secretary of the Ford County Chris- tian Endeavor Union and was substitute Delegate to tlie International Christian Endeavor Conven- tion in Minneapolis in the summer of 1891. Mr. Stevens is a member of Paxton Lodge No. 416, A. F. &. A. M., of which he has served as Secretarj' for two terms. He is a charter member of Paxton Camp No. 259, M. W. A., and has held the ofllce of Clerk in that order two terms. Since the fall of 18U5, Mr. Stevens has been a resident of Paxton and enjoys an extended ac- quaintance in tliat city and the county at large. His course at school and college was distinguished by studious habits, success in examination and general good scholarsliip. He is a fine penman, and a methodical, exact and neat book-keeper. His books at tiie [)ost-olHce are fine specimens of cor- rect, plain and tasty book-keeping, and his admin- istration of the ottice has been most satisfactory to the postal authorities and the patrons of the office. j AMES WARREN, who is now living a re- tired life in Pii)er City, successfully engaged in farmi^ig for a number of years in this county. He is one of the worthy citizens that England has furnished to this community. He was born in the village of Munden, Norfolk, on the 7tli of March, 1829, and w.as one of a family of seven children. His parents were also natives of that community and were members of the English Church. His father, Richard AVarren, who followed farming for a livelihood, died April 1, 1889, at the age of eight^'-four ^uars. Of the family, Samuel and Annie are now deceased; .lames is the next younger; Harriet and George are also deceased; and Eliza is living in England. No event of special importance occurred during the boyhood of our subject, lie had no special privileges; indeed, his educational advantages were very limited. He worked upon the farm until about eighteen years of age, and then enlisted in the Royal Artillery service of his native land as a private. The troops were first stationed at Wool- wich, p;ngland, where they remained eighteen months, and the next three years were passed in Birmingham. Another year was then spent in Woolwich, after which they, were at Gibraltar for five years. Returning then to Woolwich, Mr. Warren joined the Royal Horse Artillery, and went to the Crimea in the spring of 1854. The first battle in which he particii)ated was at Alma, and he witnessed the famous charge of the Light Brigade at Balaklava, made immortal by Tenni- son's poem. He next participated in the battle of Inkermau and the siege of Seb.asto[)ol, where he served as a gunner. His batterj- lost fifty men, and our subject had his coat-sleeve shot away by a ritle ball. At the close of the Crimean War, he re- turned to England, and then went to Gibraltar, where he remained for three 3'ears. He was for thirteen years in the service, and received his dis- charge in July, 1858. By the Governor of Gib- raltar he was presented with a silver medal in com- memoration of his services, and this memento is by him highly cherished. The year 1858 also witnessed the emigration of Mr. Warren to the United States. He sailed from Gibraltar, and a month later reached New York. He then went to Philadelphia, where he remained two years, employed in marble works of that city. He went to Ohio in 1860, and, after two years spent in farming in the Buckeye State, came by team to Ford County, and purchased eighty acres of wild land in Brenton Township, upon which not a fur- row had been turned or an improvement made. On the 8th of .lanuary, 1849, in his native land, Mr. Warren was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Snook, who was born in Sheffield, Eng- land, and is a daughter of William and Elizabeth Snook. She was with him all through his army life after their marriage. They have no children of their own, but have reared an adopted son. His name was Albert Finley, but he now bears the name of John Albert Warren. He was a soldier's orphan, and, at the age of four, came to live with our subject and his wife. Upon the farm he was reared to manhood, and acquired his education in the public schools. He is now engaged in black- smithing in Chicago. He married Delia Munson, whose father is a farmer of Brenton Township, and they have two little daughters. -4^^^ K 'S ^^, ^ W^ m r ^T^C^U^O^ ^JL C^, OuC, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPPnCAL RECORD. 255 For a. number of years, Mr. Warren gave his en- tire time and attention to tlie development of his land and transformed it into a rich and fertile farm, whicli yielded him a golden tribute for the care and labor he bestowed upon it. lie came here with only S50 and his team and wagon, but now has a handsome competence, and owes no man a cent. Since 1881, he has resided in Piper City, where he has a comfortable home, the hospitable doors of which are ever open for the reception of the many friends of Mr. and Mrs. Warren. In politics, be has been a Republican since he cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln, and has frequently served as delegate to the conven- tions of his party. Socially, he is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and himself and wife are mem- bers of the Presbyterian Church. He has taken an active interest in all that pertains to the welfare aud upbuilding of the comnuuiity and in all i)OS- sible ways has aided in the advancement of the county's interests. "^^ z^ ROF. KOSCIE CL1ISE15ELL m.-ikes his home in Melvin. J. G. Holland truthfully says tbat the teacher's professi(jn is one of the most ennobling. In presenting tiie life records of those who have been conspicuous in the educational circles of Little Ford, that of Kos- cie Clinebcll should not be omitted, for he is well and favorably known as one of Ford County's most successful teachers, having followed that pro- fession in Ford County from the year 1875 until 1889, inclusive. Mr. Clinebell is a native of West Virginia. He was born in Monroe Count}', Ma}' 24, 1856, and is the eldest of a family of three children, born unto John and Minerva C. (Alford) Clinebell, natives of Virginia. His lirother, De Witt Clinton, is a resi- dent of Bloomington, 111., living with his mother. He IS now one of the head salesmen in the firm of Pixley ik Co., the largest clothing firm in the cilj' of Bloomington. He was educated in the com- mon schools of McLean County, and the graded schools of Noiinal, 111. He is a sterling young man 11 of business tact and ability. He belongs to the Knights of Pytliias of Bloomington, and is a stanch Democrat in politics. The only daughter in the Clinebell family, Laura Josephine, was educated in the common schools for a teacher, and resides in Danvers Township, McLean County. The father of our subject was one of the men who died in the service of the South during the great Rebellion. The motlier is still living at the age of fifty-seven years. She was reared and edu- cated in Virginia, having been a student in Staun- ton Seminary, of Staunton, Va. The first eight years of Mr. Clinel)eirs life were spent in the State of his nativity. While a small boy, he was stricken with typhoid fever and white swelling, which cri])pled him for life, but the All- Wise Being gave him a fertile brain and an in- domitable will-power, which has made him the successful man he is to-daj'. His education was commenced in the typical log school-house so fa- miliar to many of the Southerners. It was a sub- scription school, for the free-school s^'stem was not then known in the South. During the war, the family lost all of their property as well as the fa- ther. The mother and grandmother, with the three little children, came to Illinois in 1866, aud resided for a year in Fairbury, where our subject had a chance of attending the first graded free school he ever saw. Thence the}' removed to Sac City, Iowa, and after two years returned to McLean County, 111., where they were almost penniless. The chil- dren were scattered among entire strangers, and our subject found in William Paul, of Stanford, 111., a true friend. He made his home at the house of that gentleman for about two years, aud at- tended the district schools. He then obtained a second-grade certificate and secured a summer school in Mackinaw Township, Tazewell County, at 125 per month, the first money he ever earned. He made a success of his first school, and was re- engaged for the fall and winter terms at $33.33^ per month. Mr. Clinebell saved his money, and the spring of 1872 found him in Normal, 111., where he rented a little liouse, and his mother, brother and himself went to house-keeping, and Koscie entered the State Normal I'nivcrsity. His resources afterward 256 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. gave out, and he was compelled to quit school and go to teaching. He then attended school and en- gaged in teaching alternately until 1875, when he came to Ford County, where he engaged as a teacher near Melvin. After two years' successful teaching, he assumed the Principalship of the Mel- vin public schools, and retained that position until 1881. During his career as teacher in Melvin, his school took fourteen premiums, and the sweep- stake premium in the County Educational Exhibit at the Ford County Fair. On August 16, 1881, Mr. Clinebell celct)ratcd his marriage with ]\Iiss Ida Mae Marsh, a native of La- conia, Harrison County, Ind., born August 16, 1862, and a daughter of Jesse P. and Margaret (Fowler) Marsh, natives of Indiana. The lady was educated in the graded schools, and is well read. She has decided skill and talent in painting and artistic needle- work. She has been one of Ford County's brightest primary teachers, and was her husband's assistant for four years in the Sibley pub- lic schools. By their union were born two chil- dren, both daughters. The eldest is Edith Maud, a bright, winning little miss of nine summers, who is now a pupil in the Melvin schools. She has pro- nounced talent in music, and is bright in her schol- astic work. Ethel Inez died at the age of sixteen months and twentj'-two days. Mr. and Mrs. Clinebell assumed charge of the Sibley public schools September 5, 1881, and he was for eight years Principal of this excellent school, under the efficient Board of Directors, con- sisting of W. A. Picket, Eli Harvey and Swen An- derson. On the 4th of December, 1882, the beau- tiful and imposing Sibley school building, erected at a cost of 14,500, was dedicated by Dr. E. C. Hewitt, President of the State Normal University, of Normal, 111. In this school is where Mr. Cline- bell made his mark as a teacher and manager of schools. While Principal of these schools, he es- tablished a system of practical business education, which was a factor of great importance to the pu- pils as well as the parents. His school competed six years out of the eight in the State Educational Exhibit at the Illinois State Fair, and the school was awarded second sweep-stakes of the State Fair Educational Exhibit, besides 152 as premium money, fourteen ribbons and tvvo first diplomas of the State Exhibit. Between 1886 and 188;), with the aid of his teachers, pupils and Mrs. Hiram Sib- ley, Mr. Clinebell founded a school library, con- taining five hundred and seven volumes of the choicest literature. Hon. Hiram Sibley was a par- ticular friend of Prof. Clinebell, and when visiting in Great Britiau and Europe, he secured a valuable collection of engravings of historical scenes, which he presented framed to the school. Tiiisis said to be the finest collection of the kind in Central Illi- nois. Through Mr. Sibley's influence, Mr. Lamb, of Rochester, N. Y., presented the school with a J $125 outfit in microscopy. ■ After Mr. Clinebell had decided to quit teach- ing, his friends advised him to try for a position as .Superintendent of some of the Governmental schools. This he did, and his friends in Central Illi- nois, and the press of Bloomington and Ford County, strongly' endorsed him for the position. The following is a copy of a letter sent to United States Senator S. M. Cullom, and Congressman L. E. Payson,froin the prominent citizens of Faxton: To the Hon. S. M. Cullom and Hon. L. E. Pay- son: Gentlemen: — Prof. Koscie Clinebell, of Sibley, Ford Count\', 111., is an applicant for the position of Superintendent of a Governmental School. We have personally known Prof. Clinebell for many years, and know him to be a thorough and success- ful teacher, a gentleman of high character and in- tegrity, a thorough Republican, a most desirable ^ citizen, and one in whom we have entire confi- ? dence. IMr. Clinebell will, in the position to which he has aspired, do credit to himself, his friends and his party. (Signed by fifteen of the prominent citizens of Paxton, 111.) To the above, Judge AValter Q. Gresham, a friend of the family, added these words: Believing Prof. Clinebell to be cai)able, honest and deserving, I take pleasure in joining in the above recommendations. W. Q. Gkeshaji, Circuit Judge of the United States Circuit Court of Northern Illinois. Prof. Clinebell also received recommendations from W. O. Davis, editor and proprietor of the Bloomington Pantagraph, of Bloomington, 111.; also from Dr. Richard Edwards, State Superinten- dent of public schools, Dr. Seliin H. Peabody, Re- gent of the University of Illinois, and a strong PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPinCAL RECORD. 257 endorsement from Gov. Joseph W. Fifer, beside a letter from the faculty of the State Xonnal Uni- versity, and Prof. Clinebell's IJoard of Education in Sibley. His appointment was duly recognized, and he was tendered by the Commissioner of In- dian Atfairs, lion. John Oberly, the .Superinten- dency of the San Carlos schools in Arizona, but he preferred to wait until the next appointment, which woidd include his wife, and in the mean- time he entered the biographical field with the Goodspeed Building Company, and was upon the staff of its writers in Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Louisiana. Mississippi and Ohio. In the spring of 1891, he entered the field with the Lake City Pub- lishing Company, by which he is now employed. Mr. Clinebell is known by his friends to be an indefatigable worker, and is ever ready to aid those in distress and need as far as he is able. In politics, he is a Re^)ublican, but in local affairs aims to cast his vote for the man, rather than the party. lie is an honored member of Lodge No. 17i), K. of P., of Melvin, and also a member of Camp No. 1,512, M. W. A., of Buckingham, 111. Himself and wife are members of the Methodist E|nscopal Church, and for many years have been connected with the Sundaj'-school interests of Ford County. Prof. Clinebell was Superintendent of the Methodist Sunday-school in Sibley for several years, and was a member of the Illinois State Teachers' Associa- tion, the Central Illinois Teachers' Association and the Teachers' Association, of Ford County. Him- self and wife are honored citizens of Melvin, where they have a neat and pretty home, and this sketch of these worthy people will be read by many who know them well and favorably. Their |)ortraits appear elsewhere in this volume. ^ NOCH S. HUNT, the original owner of the , ^ town site of Melvin, and one of the most ij^!^/ successful farmers of Ford County, claims Illinois as the State of his nativity, his birth hav- ing occurred in Marshall County, on the 15tli of October, 1H3.3. He is a son of Cornelius and Ann (Sidle) Hunt, who were pioneer settlers of his na- tive county, and a sketch of this worthy c(iu|ile is given on another (lage of this work. Our subject was reared to manhood upon a farm, and enjoyed but limited educational advantages, as schools were not only few Init poor in Marshall County in his 3'outh, and his services were reipiired on the farm in assisting his father. When fourteen \ears of age he removed with his parents to La Salle County, where he made his home until coming to Ford County. On the 21st of December, 1854, in Lacon, 111., Mr. Hunt was joined in wedlock with Miss jNIary Gnffln, who was born and reared in ^Marshall County, and is a daughter of David and Ruth Grillin, who were pioneers of that count\- of 1830, having come there from Pennsylvania. LTnto Mr. and Mrs. Hunt have been born three children who are yet living and they lost one. Esther, the eldest, is the wife of C. B. Ellis, a resident of In- dependence, Iowa; Jessie is the widow of S. A. Bookwater and resides in Melvin; Mary is the wife of W. P. Sreve, a farmer of Peach Orchard, and William Wallace died in 18G2, at the age of four- teen mouths. Mr. Hunt was successfully engaged in farming in La Salle County until 1867, when he lemoved to Peach Orchard Township, Ford County, and purchased a large farm, one half section of which is the site of the present village of Melvin. He made the original plat of that village and subse- quently platted two additions to the town. His farm house was situated near the northwest corner of the village plat and one hundied rods from the post-office. There he made his home until 1800, when he purchased and removed to his present line residence to the southeast of the depot. He still has three hundred and fifty acres of his orig- inal farm which he leases, besides fourteen lots in the village of Melvin, and his wife owns a farm of two hundred and forty acres, so their aggregate possessions amount to six Inmdred acres, all in Peach Orchard Township. In politics, Mr. Hunt is an out-and-out Republi- can, a stalwart supporter of that party's principles, and has served as Assessor and Road Commissioner for Peach Orchard Township, and held the office of Collector for many years in La Salle County. His 258 PORTKAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. wife and daughters are members of the Congrega- tional Church. For a quarter of a century', Mr. Hunt has been a resident of Ford County, and of Peacli Orchard Township; in fact, he was on the ground when the township was set off and organ- ized and is properly the founder of tlie village of Melvin. His life has been a busj' and useful one, and by untiring industry, the exercise of good judgment and by strict integrity has succeeded in acquiring a valuable property. His success is certainly well deserved. He has recently retired from active farming and is living comfortably with his family in the enjoyment of a well-earned competence and the kind regard of his old neigh- bors and friends. -^r ^., BRAM L. PHILLIPS, a laomiueut member (@i01 of the Ford County Bar, and a resident of Gibson City since 1884, was born in Put- nam County, 111., Jul}' 2, 1862, and is a son of George and Martha A. (Light) Phillips. His father was born in England in 1820, and came to America when thirty years of age. At first, he made his home near Pittsburg, Pa., where he mar- ried Miss Martha A. Light, a native of that State. In 1857, he came with his family to Illinois, set- tling in Putnam County, where he built the first steam sawmill erected in that county. He engaged in milling until his removal to Ford County in 1867. He was one of the first Justices of the Peace of Peach Orchard Township, which olHce he held un- til the time of his death, which occurred in the fall of 1874, his wife, the mother of Abram L.. dying about two years previous. They were highl}' re- spected citizens and made many ft lends in the community where they made their home. The subject of this sketch attended the district schools of his native covmty in childhood, there receiving his primary education. This was supple- mented by a course in the Wesleyan University of Bloomington, 111. He began the study of law un- der Gen. Bloomfleld and was graduated from the Bloomington Law School in the Class of '84. On taking his degree, he at once entered upon the practice of his profession at Gibson City, and has succeeded in building up a prosperous business. He is now one of the able lawyers and prominent citizens of Ford County. On the 17th of November, 1885, Mr. Phillips was united in marriage in Vermilion County, 111., to Miss Zadie Stevely. The lady is a daughter of George and Hannah Stevely, and is a native of Illinois, born in Vermilion County. Unto our subject and his wife has been born one child, a son, Wendell, born in Gibson City on the 3d of October, 1891. In political sentiment, Mr. Phillips is a Repub- lican, being a stanch supporter of the principles of that party. He served one term as City Attorney of Gibson to the credit of himself and to the sat- isfaction of his constituents. Socially, he holds membership with Gibson Lodge No. 733, A. F. & A. M.; is a member of Hesperon Lodge No. 123, K. of P., and also belongs to the Modern Wood- men of America, being a member of Gibson Camp No. 235. Mr. Phillips and his wife stand high in social circles and receive the respect and esteem of their many friends and acquaintances. In April, m 1892, Sir. Phillips was nominated by the Repub- lican party for the position of States Attorney, and the strength of his party, as well as his per- sonal popularity, assures his election in November. jENJAMIN H. McCLURE, familiarly known as '-Uncle Ben," is one of the well-known f(^') .)] pioneers of Illinois of 1824. He is a na- ^^^^ tive of Indiana, born in Posey County, June 8, 1818, and his parents were Thomas and Susan (Hines) McClure. The father was a native of Rockingham County, Va., born on the loth of July, 1765, and the mother was born in Kentucky, December 23, 1774. Thomas McClure went to Kentucky in 1782, in the pioneer days of that region, when the Indians were far more numerous than the white settlers and still had most of the land in their possession. In that State he was married, and moved to Indiana in 1815, but in 1824, still seeking the frontier of civilization, he PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 259 came to Central Illinois and laid a claim eight miles east of Springlield. Three j'cars later, he removed to McLean County, where his death oc- curred January 3, 1847, at the age of eighty-two years. Our subject, Benjamin H. McClure, accom- panied his parents to McLean County in 1827, being then nine years of age. He was reared to manhood on his father's farm, receiving little or no educational advantages, on account of the new- ness of the settlements. One of the important events in his life was his marriage, October 13, 1835, in McLean Count}-, at Stout's Grove, with Miss Frances Killiani, a daughter of Jolm and Sarah (Shackelford) Killiam. Mrs. McClure was born in Casey County, Ky., May 1, 1811, and in 1824 came with her parents to Illinois. Mr. McClure and his estimalile wife have be- come the parents of nine children: John T. mar- ried Jane Deal and makes his home in Drummer Township, Ford County; William F., a resident of Pearl County, Miss., wedded Augusta McClure; Sarah J. died in childhood, at the age of eight j'ears; Sus.an Elizabetli is the wife of Milton Bai- ley, of Gibson City; Mar^- Ellen died when eight yeai's old; James Marion was united in marriage with Josephine Hall and resides in Plaquomine, La.; Harriet Newell is the wife of the Hon. John H. Collier, of Gibson City, of whom see a sketch elsewliere in this work; Frances P. died at the age of four years; and one child died in infancj'. Mr. McClure was engaged in agricultural pur- suits in McLean County until 1868, when he re- moved to Ford Count}', settling in Drummer Township, some four miles northwest of Gibson City, where he made his liome until 1876, when he went to Gibson without disposing of his land. The farm contains one hundred and fifty-six acres of good arable land and is still the propertj' of our subject. In early life, Mr. McClure was an old-line Whig and cast liis first vote for William Henry Harri- son for President in 1840. He joined the Repub- lican party on its organization, and still supports it with his ballot. He has held a number of town- ship otlices, among which are those of Sui)ervisor and Road Commissioner. He was reared under the auspices of the Cumberland Presbyterian Cliurch, and united with that denomination in 1845. His wife joined at the same time, and they have now for nearly fifty years been devoted members of tiiat church and active workers in their Master's vine^'ard. Mr. McClure has been a Deacon since 1847, and w.as made an Elder in 1869, when he helped to organize the church in Ford County. He is one of the worthy pioneers of Illinois and early settlers of this county, and this work would be incomplete without his his- tory. He has led a bus}' and useful life, and is highly esteemed for his sterling worth and in- tegrity. Pt'RANK E. SHARP, proprietor of a livery, S)^ feed and sale stable in Gibson City, first ^ " opened his eyes to the light of day in Geauga County, Ohio, on the 20tli of November, 1857, and is a son of George and Sarah (Austin) Sharp. His parents were born in the State of New York. About 1858, the family removed to Rock County, Wis., and the following year came to Ford County, III., spent a year and returned to Rock County, where they made their home till 1864, when they again came to Ford County. They settled in Wall Township, but returned to Wisconsin, locating in Walworth County in 1890. Our subject accompanied his parents from Ohio to AVisconsin, and from there to this county, ar- riving in 1864. He received his educational training in the common schools and was reared to manhood under the parental roof. In 1877, he engaged in farming on his own account in AVall Township, and continued there until 1882, when he removed to Elliott. There he learned the harness-maker's trade and was engaged in that vocation for three years. He then bought a farm, which he operated one year, and then came to (iibson City, buying into the livery business, which he continued for only a few months, when he engaged in harness-making, which he carried on until he established his present business in March, 1892. In nddition to his livery stable, he 2C0 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. also owns and operates a dray line, which he is carr3'ing on very successfully, doing a good l)usi- ness. Mr. Sh.ari) led to the marriage altar, on tlie 30th of June, 1887, in Elliott, Miss Lou Miller. Mr.s. Sharf) is a native of Illinois and is a dauglitcr of .lames Miller. She is a consistent ineniber of the Methodist Church and by lier union with our sub- ject has become the mother of one child, Shirley, aged four years. In political sentiment, Mr. Sliarp is a stalwart supporter of the Democratic party, and takes an active interest in its advancement. lie belongs to tlio Kniulits (if Pythias fraternity, holding nieni- bcrsliip with llespcron Lodge No. 123. He and his wife are leading members of the .social circle in which tliey move, and arc jn'ominent citizens of (tilison. He is public-spirited and progressive, and is one of the enterprising business men of tlie community. ;^® '■ ^=^ ^. -g .^ii "ilJONATHAN DIXON WYl.IK, M. I)., was born in Chester District, >S. C, in 1825, and was a son of Samuel and Agnes Wylie. His parents were natives (>f Chester Count}-, S. C, and were descended from old families of tlie Palmetto State. The Doctor's ancestors were orig- in.ally from Scotland and the first to come to America were Associate Reform Presbyterians, who came from Scotland .and settled in South Carolina. Samuel Wylie was strongly opposed to slavery, al- though reared in its midst and served by slaves, the property of his father. When he had attained to man's estate, he made his home in the abolition State of Indiana, where he reared his childicn to a love of freedom for all the human family. Many of the family descended from the original South Carolina stock have achieved a prominence in the learned jirofessions and in statesmanship, and espcc- iall}^ in the medical profession. Dr. AVylie received his literary education in the .State University of Indiana, and w.ns graduated in 1850 from the Oliio INIedical College of Cincinnati. He came at once to Illinois and established himself in practice in Oakland, Coles County, then almost a wilderness. He was married in Beaver Falls, Pa., in 1851, to Miss Agnes Crawford. The ladj' is a native of Beaver Falls and a daughter of Samuel Crawford of that place. Dr. Wylie and his wife reared three sons: Samuel M., the eldest, is a prac- ticing physician of Paxton and his sketch is given elsewhere in this work; Allen 1). is in railway em- ploy in the West, and t)scar H., tlie youngest, is the present Deputy Clerk of the Court of Ford County and is in discharge of the whole duties of that oHice. In 18G2, Dr. AV3iie entered the service of the United .States for the late war as Assistant Surgeon of the Thirty-fifth Regiment, Illinois Infantry, was promoted to be Surgeon of the regiment and served until the close of the war, doing good and faithful service. On his return from the army, lie resumed practice in Oakland, where he continued to reside until 1868, when he canie to Paxton and w.as in active pr.actice in this cit}' until his fatal illness. His death occurred on the 5th of March, 1876. Dr. Wylie was a member of the .State Medical Societ}' of Illinois and of the American Society of the United States. He also held membership with the United Presbyterian Church of Paxton, as does his wife, and was an earnest Repulilican in politics. As a pliysician, he was talented and skillful anil throughout his days of activity maintained a large and lucrative practice. -^^z El*^^^ eOL. HARRY D. COOK. Among the promi- nent citizens of Illinois who were .actively identified with the war history of the State and soldier interest sul3sequent to the return of peace, few, if any, are deserving of more favor.able mention than the gentleman whose name heads this sketch. Col. Cook was Ijorn in Oneida County, N. Y., in 1818, and was a son of .Joliii Cook. His father was a close friend of Gai'rett Smith, and was de- scended from an old New York family, the grand- father of the Colonel being a soldier in the Revo- PORTRAIT AND BIOaRAPHlCAL RECORD. 261 lutionary War. H. D. Cook received a liberal edu- cation, and in liis youth learned the carpenter's trade. In 1K41, he was married in New York to Miss .loanna Hall, daughter of AVilliam and Sally Hall. The lad3' was born in New York and comes of an old family of that State. In 1850, Col. Cook emigrated from the East to Illinois and settled in Fulton Count}', but after a year removed to McLean Country, locating on a farm near Bloomington. He was emplo3'ed on tlie Illinois Central Railroad as a bridge-builder, and in 18.53 removed to Woodford County. In 1860, he was elected to the Illinois Legislature on the Republican ticket, and in Maj' of the following year entered the volunteer service for the late war as Captain of Company G, Fourth Illinois Cavalry. He participated in the active service of the war, was promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel and commanded his regiment. When mustered out after three years of service, he held the rank of Colonel. On his return to the North, Col. Cook was re- elected to the Legislature and after the close of the war was commissioned by Gov. Oglesb}- as military financial agent for Illinois and ordered to Washington to secure the payment of State claims against the general Government, growing out of the late war. So well did he discharge his duty, that he secured the payment of nearly all the claims due the State, manifesting superior busi- ness ability and tact. When the railroad and ware- house commission was organized by act of Legis- lature, Col. Cook was a[)pointed by Gov. Bever- idge a member of that boar<], and at its organi- zation was chosen Chairman. This position he filled with honor to himself and satisfaction to the people until his death, which occurred in No- vember, 1873, at his home in Normal. 111. The Colonel was an original Abolitionist and a warm friend of Owen Lovejoy. He was a man of positive views and was a popular speaker, widely and favorably known. The war afforded a field for distinction for men of nerve and strength of character, and Col. Cook's career developed the latent talent in his character for leadership, he be- coming prominent and inlluential in State and National affairs. For several years prior to his death, he had made his home in Normal, 111., where his wife, who survives her husband, still resides, though well advanced in years. Seven children were born to Colonel and Mrs. Cook, of whom four are living, three having died in childhood: Fiance L., the eldest, who married Miss Kate Anderson, is the present State Attorney of Ford Count}-, and resides in Paxton. .John W. married Lydia Spofford and is President of the State Normal University at Normal; Florence A. is the wife of Judge Alfred S.aniplc, of Paxton, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work; and Ida is the wife of F. W. Gove, a resident of Den- ver, Col. Al felLLIAM HAMU/rON THOMPSON is WjJ// P'"'^"iii"ciitly connected with the busi- W^ less interests of Melvin, being the senior member of the firm of W. II. &- W. E. Thompson, dealers in lumber and farm machinery. He has been a resident of Peach Orchard Township, Ford County, since 1872, and has made his home in Illinois since 1865. Mr. Thompson claims Ohio as the State of his nativit}', his birth occurring in Belmont County, on the 1th of December, 1851. With his parents, he came to Illinois, the family settling in Marshall County, near New Rutland, La Salle County, where he attended the public schools. On attaining to man's estate, in the fall of 1872, he came to Ford County, and, locating in Peach Orchard Township, engaged in farming. He still owns a farm of eighty acres on section 36, but in later \'ears he has given no attention to agricultural pursuits, but has devoted his energies to the lumber business. An important event in the life of Mr. Thompson occurred on the 23d of September, 1875, when in Paxton he was united in marriage with Miss Ruth Hunt, a daughter of John S. and Jane Hunt. The lady was born in La Salle County, 111., February 20, 1856, and came to this county with her |)arents in 1867. Three children grace the union of this worthy couple, a son and two daughters: Zella Aim, Delmer B. and Delia. Mr. Thonii)son continued to engage in a"-ricul- •262 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPfflCAL RECORD. tural pursuits until 1876, when he left the farm and embarked in his present business as a dealer in lumber and farm machinery in Melvin, where he has since made his home. He is a straightforward, upright business man and is held in high regard by all who know him. He and bis wife are mem- bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in his |)olitieal alliliations he is a stalwart Republican, warmly advocating the principles of that party and laboring for its success and upbuilding. During his residence in Peacli Orchard Township, he has held various official ijositions of honor and trust, having served for one year as Collector, as Presi- dent of the Village of Melvin for two years, and as United States Census Enumerator for his home di.'st ict in 1890. Mr. Thompson and his partner have built up an extensive trade in their line, as the result of good management and an earnest de- sire to please their patrons, and are esteemed among the worthy and relial)le luisiness men of Ford County, llis entire life since attaining to years of matuiity our subject has passed in this community and h.Ts thus formed a wide and extensive acquaint- ance. — ^ ^g -^' ' OHN WOOLSTONCROFT, one of the ex- tensive land-owners of Lyman Township, residing on section 18, claims England as the land of his nativity and also has some Scotch l>lood in his veins. He was born in Lan- cashire, in 1810, and was one of a family of eight children, two sons and six daughters, whose parents were John and Mary (Woods) Woolston- ci''oft. His father was a weaver of cotton cloth. He died at the age of sixt3'-four and his wife passed away at the age of fifty. The only members of the famil}' yet living are three sisters of our sub- ject: Mary and Janet, both of whom are widows and reside in Lancashire, England, and Sarah, who resides in Philadelphia. Our subject began to earn his own livelihood at the age of eight j'ears, working at the weaver's trade from that time until twelve years of age, when he learned the trade of brick-making and also laid brick. Wlien about twenty years of age. he determined to try his fortune in America and, in 1831, sailed from Liverpool to New York. He was almost penniless when he arrived in this coun- try, a stranger in a strange land. He first secured work as a weaver in Philadelphia, where he re- mained for six years, and in the spring of 1837, he went to Ohio, where he spent about five months. He next located in Putnam County, III., and, making his home in Magnolia, engaged in weaving in the winter season and in brick-hying in the summer. While residing in Putnam County, Mr. Wool- stoncroft was united in marriage to Elizabeth Phillips, a native of England. Tlicir union was celebrated in April, 1838, and unto them were born six sons and six daughters, eight of whom are now living: David, tiie eldest, wedded Mary Warner, a native of this .State, by whom he has three children. He is a plasterer and brick mason and one of the prominent citizens of Roberts, and , in politics, is a stanch Republican. .John married Miss Hannom and follows farming in Kansas; he, too, is a Republican. Abraham married Miss Pettit and is a resident farmer of Kansas; Wilber was joined in wedlock to Miss Hawthorne, and follows farming in Kans.as; Alice is the wife of George Dykes, an agriculturist of Illinois; F^lizabeth is the wife of John Warner, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work; Hannah is the wife of Ed- ward Owens, a farmer of AVall Township; Maria, who successfully engaged in teaching in Onarga and in F'ord County, is now the wife of Nelson Buzick, farmer, by whom she has six children, namely: Earl, who aids his father in tiie farm work; Flora, a student in Onarga Seminary; Maiy, Jessie, John AV. and James. Mrs. Woolstoncroft died May 7, 1864, and was interred in Magnolia Ceme- tery, where a beautiful monument marks her last resting place. In 1867, Mr. Woolstoncroft came to this county with John Hunt, and purchased four hundred acres of raw land. The towns of Melvin and Rob- erts were not then laid out, wild game ot all kinds was plentiful and at that day one could not have realized that such a rapid change was so st)on to take place. Our subject bought land at ^9 per acre and began the development of a fine farm. His ■t^^ ^^ I t * PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 265 labors were successful and he has become one of the well-to-do citizens of the community. In early life, he was a Whig and cast his first Presidential vote for William Henr}' Harrison, but since the organization of the Republican party, he has been one of its stanch supporters. Througliout the com- munity, he is held in the highest regard and the word of John Woolstoncroft is as good as his bond, for his upright life and sterling worth have won him the the confidence of all. He is now eighty-two years of age but is still enjoying good health. ^^ HARLES SPELLMEYER, who carries on (li tr S^'ieral farming on section 16, Wall Town- ^^;^ ship, was born in the town of Mahnan, in the Province of Westphalia, in Meinden County, Germany, September 17, 1831. His father was also a native of that localit3' and in later life emi- grated to America. Further mention is made of him in the sketch of George H. Spellme}'er on another page of this work. In accordance with the laws of his native land, our subject attended school between the ages of seven and fourteen years. When about twenty- three years of age, he determined to try his for- tune in America and sailed for New York in 1853, landing after a voyage of six weeks. Four 3ears later, he was followed by the family. Charles came on at once to Illinois, making bis first loca- tion in Putnam Count}', where he worked by the day or month as a farm hand for some time. Five j'ear.s later, he went to La Salle County, where he rented land and engaged in farming for himself. He is truly a self-made man, for he started in life empty-h.anded. and the success wliicli has crowned his efforts is due entirely to Ins industry and per- severance. After renting land for about eight years, during which time he saved some capital, he purchased eighty acres in La Salle County in 1876, and settled upon that land. A small shanty constituted the improvements, but onlj- a short time liad elapsed ere a great change was wrought in that place, and wliat was once a barren tract He now engages in gen- became a valuable farm, eral fanning and stock-raising and owns five hun- dred and twenty-eight acres of land, all in Wall Township. A marriage ceremony performed in La Salle County on the 17th of Ma}-, 1858, united the des- tinies of Mr. Spellmej-er and Miss Louisa Kotl- kamp, who was born in the same town as her hus- band and came to America in the year 1857. She is a daughter of Henry and Anna Marie Kott- camp, who spent their entire lives in Germany. Both parents passed away when about sixty-one years of age. They were members of the German Lutheran Church and the father was a tanner by trade. They had a family of ten children, six sons and four daughters, but only two are now living: Lottie is the widow of F'red .Schwartze, of St. Louis, Mo., and iSIrs. Spellmeyer, who is the elder. She was educated in the German schools, and at about the age of twenty emigrated to America. The other members of the famil}- all died in infancy except Henrietta, whose death occurred in Germany when about eighteen years of age. By the union of our subject and his wife have been bom nine children, five sons and four daugh- ters, as follows: George W., a farmer of Wall Township, who wedded Mary Carson; Mary, wife of Charles Kenney, of the same township; Henry C, a hardware merchant of Melvin, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work; Frank, who makes his home in Vermilion County, 111.; Amelia, Charles and Lillie Louisa, all yet at home. The children have been afforded good educational privileges and reared to habits of industiy, thus fitting them to become useful citizens. Two other children are now deceased: Mina, who died in La Salle County when only six weeks old, and a son who died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Spellmeyer are members of the Lutheran Church of Melvin and are worthy Ger- man people whose many excellencies of character have won them high regard. In politics, he is a stalwart Democrat, having supported that party since he cast his first Presidential vote for Stephen A. Douglas. He is also a good business man and a successful fanner, and his prosperity is but the just reward of his own efforts. He came to this 266 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. country a penniless young man. A stranger in a strange land, he commenced life here 120 in debt, but lias steadily worked his way upward until he has acquired a handsome competence. This record will be cherished and held sacred by their children when father and motlier have passed away. ON. DAVID PATTON, in whose honor the township of Patton was named, is the old- est surviving member of the Ford County Bar and was in practice in tiie territory' which is now Ford County, which was then a part of Vermilion County. Judge Patton located at what is known as Ten Mile Grove, situated about three miles southwest of Paxton,in October, 1849. He was born in Clark County, Ky., in 1806. and accom- panied his family to Butler County, that State, in 1810. When eighteen j-ears of age, Mr. Patton began the study of law in the office of Oliver H. Smitii, at Connersville, Ind., and while so engaged taught the district school to earn money to defray his current expenses. He was admitted to the Bar in 1828 and entered upon the practice of his profes- sion at La Fayette, Ind., where he secured a large and lucrative practice. Frank, upright and gen- erous in disposition, he was held in high esteem by the people and regarded as a leading lawyer by his brethren at the Bar. His unguarded liberality, however, proved a snare to him financially, and his earnings for ten years were soon swept away in the payment of debts for his friends, and he was compelled to start anew in life. With this object in view, he came to Illinois and located four hun- dred acres of land at Ten Jlile Grove, then in Ver- milion, now Ford County. The country was but sparsely settled, affording little, if any, field for business in the line of his profession, hence he turned his attention to farming and stock-raising, occasionally practicing in justice courts, not a few of the leading lawyers of Vermilion County ex- pressing surprise at being outgeneraled and beaten by the farm lawyer. To his efforts the passage of the act of the Legislature creating Ford County was largely due. At a special election held in 1859, he was elected Judge of the County Court by a large majority over his opponent, Gideon Camp, and he was re-elected at the succeeding elections of 1860-64-68. Before the close of his fourth of- ficial term, the weight of years and his extensive personal interests decided him to decline further public service. The monetary panic of 1873 and 1875, in connection with his losses as surety for some of his friends, again stripped him of nearly all his worldly possessions, but notwithstanding his misfortune in this i>articular, he lias the liigher and better consolation of having merited the esteem and confidence of his fellow-citizens by an active and useful life in their midst for more than thirty years. He was a good lawyer, a quaint, entertain- ing speaker, and at all times a kind and indulgent parent; a friend to the poor and needy, and an en- terprising and public-spirited citizen, and above all, a steadfast lover of justice and hum.anity. .Judge Patton still makes his home in Paxton, where he settled in 1865, but is in feeble health, and his ad- vanced age of eighty-six years admonishes his friends that his end is not far distant. The writer is under oliligations to the publishers of the late Coiintij Alias for the facts above stated. ■ -^1= crULm ^ ACOB BLESCH, one of the extensive land- owners and leading citizens of Lyman Township, residing on section 11, was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, April 9, 1839, and is the eldest in a family of three chil- dren born unto George and Elizabeth (Obennauer) Blesch. His father was a German farmer, and, in the spring of 1853, bade adieu to his old home and with his family crossed the broad Atlantic to America, sailing from Havre to New York, where he arrived after a pleasant voyage of forty-two Aoiys,. The parents located in Du Page County, 111., whence they removed to Cook County, where the death of Mr. Blesch occurred in 1870. He came to thiscountr3' in very limited circumstances, but by his industry and good management, at the PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 267 time of his death was the owner of one hundred and eighty acres of valuable land in Cook County. His wife, who was horn April 1), 1811, is still liv- ing at the advanced age of eighty-one years. She is a member of the Lutheran Church, to which lier husband also belonged. Our subject was a lad of fourteen years when, with his parents, he came to this country. He re- mained under the parental roof until his marriage, which was celebrated on Christmas Day of 1867, Miss Rosalie Gurard, who was born September 20, 1845, in IJyron, (Germany, becoming liis wife. She was only three months old when brought to America by her parents, who located in Cook Count}'. Her father was a manufacturer in (ier- man3'aud was quite wealthy when he come to the United States. Both he aud his wife are now de- ceased, and a beautiful monument marks their last resting place in a cemetery of Cook County. The maiden days of Mrs. Blesch were spent in Cook County, where she acquired her education. She became the mother of three sons and three daughters: Anna, who was educated in both Ger- man and English, is now the wife of A. jNIcDon- ald, who was one of the successful teachers of Ford County, and is now engaged in merchandising in Odell, III.; Reynold, who pursued a commeicial course of study in Valparaiso College, of Indiana, now aids his father in the laliors of the farm; George died at the age of three jears; Clara is taking a teacher's course in the Valparaiso Nor- mal School; Eddie died at the age of twelve years; and Lydia comi)letes the family. Mr. and Mrs. Blescli have resided in Ford County- since Fel)ruarj% 188.3, at which time our subject purchased three hundred and twenty acres of land conveniently' and pleasantly- located within three miles of Roberts. Since that time he has made many good improvements and the farm has be- come one of tlie beautiful and desirable places in L_yman Township. In addition to the fine resi- dence, there are outbuildings which are models of convenience, and many other improvements, both useful and ornamental. Mr. Blesch has served as School Director during almost his entire residence here, and the cause of education has found in him a warm friend. In politics, he has been a stanch Republican since he cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln, and he nnd his wife are con- sistent members of the Lutheran Church. They are justly classed among the licstand most promi- nent citizens of Lyman Township and well de- serve the high regard in which tliev are held. '' ' ^3- E^^ ENRY ATWOOD has longer resided in I Pella Township than any other of its citi- zens. He has here made his home for thirty-five years, and is now living on sec- tion 22. With the history of Ford County, he has been prominently identified and has ever borne his part in the work of upbuilding and ad- vancement. As he is widely and favorably known throughout the community, wc feel assured tliat this sketch will prove of interest to many of our readers. Mr. Atwood was born in Chelsea, Mass., February 6, 1832. His grandfather, Stephen Atwood, was born at Cape Cod, spent his early life as a sailor and afterward became a farmer. Ills son, William II. At- wood, father of Henry, was Iiorn on Cape Cod, and when about eight years old went to Boston with his father, who bought a farm at Chelsea. William went into a store and was ever afterward connected with mercantile interests. He learned to read by poring over newspapers, and w.as en- tirely self-educated, but through his own efforts became a well-informed man. With his brother, he did a large business as a wholesale and retail dealer in oysters. He was married in Chelsea, to Miss Lenora Atkins, a native of Cape Cod, who died when our subject was about twelve years old. He then married Ruth Newcome, and, after her death, was a third time married. He served .as Cap- tain of a military company and throughout his life was a Democrat. He died in the old home at Chelsea, in 1878, at the age of seventy-four years. The children of the Atwood family were Frank- lin, who died at the age of twenty-one; Henry, of this sketcii; Lenora, who died at the age of twentj-- one; Cordelia, who is living in Newton, M.a.ss.; Daniel, who served in the Twentv-seventh Massa- 268 POKTRAIT AND BIOaRAPHICAL RECORD. chusetts Regiment throughout the late war; Thomas H., who was in the Fourth Iowa Cavalry; and Otis, of Massachusetts. By the second marriage were born five children and of the fourteen, ten are now living. Our subject spent the first twelve years of his life in Chelsea and then went to Boston, where he attended the public schools for two years. He afterward went to night school for two j^ears and was a student in the Brocton School, but ill health forced him to abandon his studies. He was after- ward engaged for nine years in the wholesale drug business. In 1857, he determined to try his for- tune in the West. He spent a short time in Minn- esota for his health, and was at Minneapolis when the first building was erected in that city. Later in the year, he came to Illinois and purchased eighty acres of wild land in Pella Township, where he has since made his home. It was not long before he had his entire farm under a iiigh state of cultivation. A home was built, trees were planted and many other improvements made, which add both to the value and attractive appearance of the place. Mr. Atwood was one of the earliest settlers of the county and has been prominentl3^ identified with its growth and progress during all these years. He served on the first jury of Ford County, in Paxton, and has been called upon to fill many position of honor and trust, the duties of which he has ever discharged with promptness and fidel- ity. On the 16th of November, 1859, in Onarga, Iroquois County, Mr. Atwood wedded Miss Mary Wyllie, who was born in Warren, Me., and is a daughter of William and Harriet Wyllie. She taught the first school in Pella Township in her own home. Three children have been born of their union: Lillie A., who was born and reared on the old home farm and educated in the public schools and Onarga Seminary, is the wife of David E. Tufts, a farmer of Steele County, N. Dak.; Wyllie is a successful teacher of North Dakota, and Flora B. is a teacher of recognized ability in Pella Township. Mr. and Mrs. Atwood are charter members of the Presbyterian Church in Piper City, to which their children also belong, and he is now serving as one of its Elders. He cast iiis first Presidential vote for John C. Fremont and has since been a Republican, stanch and true. The cause of educa- tion has found in him a warm friend and he has done much for the advancement of the schools in this neighborhood. During the thirty-five years of his residence in Ford County, he has won the confidence and regard of all with whom he has been brought in contact and this work would be incomplete without the sketch of Henry At- wood. EBEN AVAIT, is a representative farmer and leading citizen of this county, residing on "' section 17, Button Township. His life record is as follows: He was born in Schuyler County, N.Y., February 26, 1823, and is a son of Abijah Wait. The father was born in Jlassachu- sctts, February 2, 17'.t(l, and when a .young man went to New York, settling in Schuyler County, where he married Hannah Calvert, a native of the Empire State. Upon their farm, they spent the remainder of their lives and were buried in the family cemetery. They had a famil3- of two sons and four daughters, all of whom grew to mature j-ears, namely: Phcebe, who became the wife of Aaron I'arish, of Schuyler County; both are now deceased. Nancy, wife of Frederick Stamp, a res- ident of Paxton; Henry, lately a farmer of Schuy- ler County, N. Y.; Eben of this sketch; Margaret, who is residing on the old homestead, and Sarah Ann, who is also living on the old home farm in New York. The educational advantages which our subject received were only those afforded by the common schools, and his boyhood days were spent in the usual manner of farmer lads. With his parents he remained until after he had attained his major- it}-, when, on the 26th of Februar}-, 1845, in Tomp- kins Cojinty, N. Y., he married Louisa Stamp, who was born and reaied in Schuyler County, and is a daughter of Daniel Stamp, one of the pioneers of that locality Unto them have been born two sons: Elbert A., a substantial farmer of Button Town- ship, and Adrian D., a j'Oiing man of sterling /\ (^/(T^^c^ L^^^T-iyViil ^Cic^f^^^^^L-C^i^^ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 271 wt)rtli and good business ability, who iiiiis his fa- ther in carrying on the liome farm. After liis marriage, Mr. Wait engaged in fann- ing in Lis native county for a number of years, and in 1855 emigrated Westward, taking up bis residence in what is now Ford County, 111. There was no town where the city of Paxton now stands, the land was all in its primitive condition, and the work of progress and development seemed scarcely begun. He bore all the hardships and privations of pioneer life but his efforts were afterward crowned with success. He developed and im- proved a farm of eighty acres of valuable land, which is his present home. It is an excellent farm, supplied with substantial improvements, and its neat appearance indicates the thrift and enleri)rise of the owner. Mr. Wait has helped to make Ford Count}' what it is to-day, one of the best counties in the State, and is numbered among its honored pioneers. He was originally a Jackson Democrat, but on the or- ganization of the Republican party joined its ranks and is one of its stanch supporters. He has held several offices of honor and trust, including that of Commissioner of Highways, and has also been a member of the School Board. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Church and are highly respected members of this community, well deserving representation in the history of their adopted county. OL. CHARLES BOGARDUS. To apiilaud worthy achievements is an instinct of hu- man nature, and when noble results have lieen accomplished by one's own efforts, thrice de- serving is he of praise. All delight to pay tribute to a self-made man, one who, despite great disad- vantages, has achieved distinction. Such a one is the well-known gentleman whose name heads this memoir. The progenitor of the different branches of the Bogardus family in America was Everardus Bo- gardus, a Dutch Reform clergyman, who emigrated from Holland to New Amsterdam (now New York City) in 1633 and was the second minister in that citj'. residing on what is now Broad Street. In 1638, he married Annetje, widow of Roelof Jan- sen, who had obtained a grant of sixty-two acres of land in what is now the center of New York City. This farm, long known as "Dominie's Bowery," in time became vested in Trinity Church by unfair means and has caused continuous litigation sLaceii.'vL'.c He is the only one of the name that has come to'J^'" this country. Col. Bogardus is a lineal descendant of the above gentleman and is a son of James H. and Louisa Bogardus. He was born in Cayuga County, N.Y., March 28, 1841, and when only six years of age was left an orphan, both parents being taken away b}^ an epidemic. He was taken by an uncle, W. H. Bogardus, who gave him common-school advanta- ges until he was some twelve years of age, at which time young Charles entered a grocery store as clerk, at a salary of $1.50 per week, his kind uncle fur- nishing him both board and clothes. This position he held for four years, receiving increase in salary from time to time. His earnings were paid every Saturday night to the uncle, who, without the boy 's knowledge, invested the same for him, and subse- quently offered to turn all over to him, notwith- standing his uncle was a poor man. But the boy, although only eighteen years of age, declined the offer and the mone^' with thanks. Borrowing means, he went to Ridgeway, N. Y., to accept a clerkship in the store of another uncle at $S per month. In this position, he served until 1862, getting a yearly increase of salary. On the 13th of August, 1862, Col. Bogardus, having just attained his majority, enlisted for the war in Com- pany A, One Hundred and Fift^'-first New York Infantry. But before going to the field, as was not uncommon with the boys who feared some others might woo and win their sweethearts (hir- ing their absence, he married, August 17, 1862. Miss Hannah W., daughter of William H. Pells, whose sketch is found on another page of this work. It is difficult to comprehend just how much sacrifice and courage is necessary to leave a 3'ouug wife and face an armed foe. On the organization of the company. Col. Bogardus was elected First Lieutenant; was promoted U> be Caiitain of Com- 272 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. panyl, Decem))er 12, 1862; to Lieutenant-Colonel December 10, 1864; and was breveted Colonel by order of the President of the United States "'for gallant and meritorious services in the charge in front uf Petersliurg, Va., April 2, 1865." The letter from the Governor of New York accompa- nying the commission states the reason for grant- ing the commission, and is here given: "Colonel, 1 liave tlu' i)leasure to transmit here- with a brevet commission conferred by the Presi- dent, in recognition of your faithful and distin- guished services in the war. I feel a just pride in this acknowledgment of the gallantry and devo- tion of an oUicer of this State, which serves to heighten the re|)utation won l)y the valor and con- stancy of the soldieis of New York. "Veiy truly yours, "R. E. Fenton." The principal battles in which Col. Bogardus took part were the following: Mouocacy, Md., an engagement comparatively insignificant in itself, was important in its results. Three thousand Union trooiis, by the skillful management of Gen. Lew AVallacc, held in check nearly six times their number for twenty-four hours, thus giving Gen. Grant barely time to bring up the First and Second Divisions of the Sixth Armj' Corps, as the Confed- erate Gen. Early appeared in front of the outer defenses of Washington. Had that heroic little band of boys in blue given way, the Capitol City must have fallen a i)rey to the enemy. In the bat- tle of the AVilderness, the corps to which Col. Bo- gardus belonged was on the extreme right, and all well remember what a desperate effort Lee made to crush that part of Grant's army. The battle of Spottsylvania; Tolopotomoy; Cold Harbor, in which the One Hundred and Fifty-first lost five captains; Petersburg, Sailor Creek, and Lee s sur- render will ever be remembered as experiences in our subject's army life. At the battle of Monoc- acy, July 9, 1864, Col. Bogardus was so severely wounded that he could iKjt endure to be transferred by ambulance, hence was carried three miles on a stretcher to the Confederate hosintal at Frederick City, Md. Had his injuries been less, he would have been sent to Richmond or to Libby Prison. Frederick City soon fell into the hands of the Union troops, and he was transferred, about three months after, when able to travel, to the olliccrs' hospital at Annapolis, Md., where he regained his strength sufliciontly to come home on crutches and cast his tirst Presidential vote for Lincoln. As soon as he could get about liy the use « >i »• I 1 1 I "il/ ( )HN H. HOIiMES is the resident and manag- ing partner of the firm of Keiser, Holmes cfe AVhite, Elevator Company, of Gibson City. This coinpan3' was organized in De- cember. 188(). and does a general grain and lumber business. They have an elevator at Gibson which has a storage capacity of forty-five tliou.sand liush- els; one at East Lynn, of twenty-five thousand bushels, and handle grain at Switch D. They handle during the shipping season a total of three hundred thousand bushels of grain. Their lumber business, which is extensive, is limited to the Gibson City yard. Mr. Holmes was born in Pike County, 111., on the 22(1 of May, 1851, and is a son of Cyrus and Calista (Bennett) Holmes. His father was l)orn in Walthani, Mass., in 1817, and his mother was a native of the State of New York. iMr. Holmes, Sr., came to Illinois when about seventeen years of age, and the mother of our subject removed to this State in girlhood. They were married in Princeton, III., and made their home in Pike County, where Mr. Holmes engaged in farming. He continued that occu|iation in Pike County until LSO'.l. then moved on a farm near Ludlow, Champaign County, where he remained until his death, in 1886. Mrs. Holmes survived her hus- band five years, being called to her final rest in February, 1891. They were highly respected people and received the confidence of the entire community where tiiey made their home. Our subject was reared on his father's farm until twenty-one years of age, and received his education in the country- schools of Pike Count3-. 284 i'ORTRAlT AND JilOGRAPHIC AL RECORD. On tlic 31st of Decemlier, 1873. he was married in Ludlow, III., to Miss Maiy Clo^d, a daughter of Archie C'lo^^d, and a native of Mercer County, K3^ Unto Mr. and Mrs. Holmes Iiave been born four children, but throe are now deceased. Belva, their eldest, died at the .ige of six years; Bertha, de- ceased, was of the same age .as lier sister; F.ay died when eleven months old, and Stella, their only living child, is the youngest. In 1877, Mr. Holmes removed witli his family to what is now known as Fall River, Kan., and there made his home until 1880, when he returned to Illinois and eng.aged in .agricultural pursuits for two years. Tie came to Gibson City in August, lH,s-2, and engaged in buying and shipping hay until 188 married, May 28, 1884, to Adam Schafer, a merchant of Melvin; Henry, who was educated in Xapi'rvillo College, of Naperville, 111., and is Mr. Silialcr's [lartner in business, married Susanna Scliafcr October 6, 188(),and their home is in Mel- vin; Louisa .1., Frederick W.; Mary W., Emma jM. and Johnnie L. are still at home. The four eldest children were born in St. Louis, the others are natives of Illinois. The family is widely and fa- vorably known in this (■ommuiiity and ranks high in social circles. Mr. Stcmmann is one of the most prominent farmers of Wall Township, and is an influential and valued citizen. C. MAXSON, a practical and progressive farmer of Lyman Township, residing on section 14, claims Connecticut as the State of his nativity. He was born February 8, 1821, and traces his ancestry back to the days when the Pilgrim Fathers landed on the shores of Massachusetts. His parents were Amos Champaign and Elizabeth (Tinker) Maxson. His father was born in Connecticut, and was a carpenter by trade. In politics, he was a Democrat, and in religious be- lief was a Baptist. He died at the age of ninety- three years. His family numbered four sons and two daughters, but, with the exception of our subject, only one is now living, Nancy, who re- sides in Connecticut, at the age of ninety-two. The early boyhood days of our subject were spent un- der the parental roof, where he remained until fourteen years of age, when he shipjied aboard a sailing-vessel on the high seas, leaving New York on a packet bound for London. He followed this -? life for seven years, and became mate of a vessel. He has sailed to the Sandwich Islands, Havre, Rotterdam, Ital}', Sicily, Antwerp, and .around Cape Horn. He made fifteen voyages on the "Welling- ton" to London, one on the "Hector" to Mobile, one each to Liverpool on the "Metoka," the "Si- dons" and the "Cornelia," one each to London on • ■ the "Toronto" and the "Montreal;" was second mate on the brig "Republic" during three voy- ages, and the brig "Mettamora" on two voj-ages to Aitpalachicola, was boatswain on two voyages to Liverpool, was first mate on the "Sampson" on three voyages, on the barque "Curtis" from New Orleans to Philadcliihia, on the brig "Emeline," on the brig "Ocilla, which went around Cape Horn to California, on the barrpie "Mayflower," for two years, on the "Sir Robert Peel," during two V03'- ages, and the "Lenore," and the "American Con- gress" during one voyage. He was Captain of tlic ships "Tonera," and "Edwina" each a voyage. He w.as on the high seas for about a quarter of a century, during which time they encountei'cd many severe storms, and on one occasion the crew were at the pumps for seven days and seven nights. In 1852, Mr. Maxson was united in marriage with Miss Phojhe Elizaljeth Pierson, a native of Lime, Conn., and unto them were born three sons and three daughters, all yet living, namely: Ettie Louise, who was educated in Grand Prairie Semin- ary in Onarga, and is a successful teacher of this county; Laura, wife of Henry Clay Miner, of Gen- esee County, N. Y.; Bertha, wife of John Dopps, of Bloomington, III.; John Arthur, who is married and resides in Brentou Township; Pierson R., who is married, and is employed in the shops of the Chicago & Alton Railroad at Bloomington, 111.; and Wilber R., who completes the family. The mother dei)arted this life .July 19, 187',), and her remains were interred in Roberts Cemetery, where a beautiful monument marks her last resting place. In 18.59, INIr. Maxson came to Ford County, then a part of Vermilion Count}', and, although he has resided upon the same farm, h.as lived in two coun- ties and three different township organizations, Stockton, Brentou and Lyman. He entered one hundred and sixty acres of raw land ui)on which -i^. ■ &■ ^-^^K^> ^. 1 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPmCAL RECORD. 28H not a furrow had been turned f>r an improvement made. Gibson, ]\lelvin, Ui>l)crts and Piper City were not then laid out, and wild game roamed over the prairies upon wliicli those towns are now loeated. Mr. INIaxson now owns eighty acres of improved land and his valuable farm yields to him a good ineome. In his political allillations, he is a Republican, but has never sought or desired public otlice, preferring to devote his entire time and at- tention to his bu.siness interests. His career has been a checkered one, \'et one of honor, and he is regarded as one of the valued and representative citizens of Ford County. He is also numbered among its honoretl pioneers, having been an eye- witness of its growth and npliuilding for a third of a century. ' ARON BROWN, recently dccea.sed, was a native of Piper City. In presenting to /// 111 our readers a sketch of this gentleman, we ^(1 give the record of a self-made man, one who by his own efforts worked his way upward from a humble position in life to one of affluence, and his example in many respects is well worthy of emulation. He was born in Lancaster County, Pa., IMarch 29, 1836, and was a son of Christian and Elizabeth (Hoover) Brown, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania. They removed to the West about 185(1, locating in Peoria County, 111., where Mr. Brown purchased a farm of one hun- dred and sixty acres, nine miles from Peoria, and there spent the remainder of his life, his death oc- curring December 2, 1879. His wife passed away March 6, 1881, at the age of seventy-three years, eleven months and twenty-nine days. Mr. Brown was a successful business man and made a good home. In politics, he was a Democrat and was a member of the Presbyterian Church. The family numbered ten children: John, deceased; Jacob and Samuel (twins), who died in childhood; Celinda, deceased; Reuben, who was killed by lightning; Henry, deceased; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Fisher, of Woodford County, 111.; Mrs. Mary L. Stoner, of Taylor Count}-, Iowa; Christian II., who is em- ployed in a corn-planter works in Peoria; .and Aaron. The boyhood days of our subject wei-c spent in the Keystone State, where his education was acquired in the primitive log schools with its slab seats. At the age of fourteen, he came to Illi- nois and before attaining his majority started out in life for himself. From 1858 until near the close of his life, he followed the occupation of farm- ing, but in 1865, he laid aside all business cares and, on the 16tli of Februaiy, joined Company G, of the Fourteenth Illinois Infantry. The regi- ment marched through to Raleigh and joined Sher- man's Army. After the surrender of Johnson, they went to Richmond, Va. Tlu^y were under Gen. Sherman at the battles of Parkersburg, Va., and Louisville, Ky., and participated in the grand review in Washington. Mr. Brown was in the ser- vice for eight months, during which time he trav- eled many hundreds of miles. On his return home, he resumed farming in Peoria County, where he remained for two or three 3ears, then went to Livingston Count}-, where he spent four- teen years. In 1883, he moved to Ford Count}-, which was his home until his death, and in Pella Township the family still owns one hundred and sixty acres of good land, although they now make their home in Piper City. Mr. Brown was married in Peoria County, Jan- uary 26, 1858, the lady of his choice being Miss Sarah II. Pierce, a native of that county and a daughter of John and Mary (Wilbur) Pierce, who emigrated from Massachusetts to Illinois in 1838, becoming early settlers of Peoria, where the father followed the occupation of carpentering. They had a family of eight children: Frank, who is now living retired in Oregon; Mary, who died in child- hood; Mrs. Mary L. Conover, of Peoria; Henry C, who served as Fife Major during the late war in the Forty-seventh Illinois Infantry, is now de- ceased; Mrs. Brown is the next younger; Charles died in infancy; and Charles, the second of that name, who served as a soldier in the late war, is a resident of Chicago; Samuel resides in Brenton Township. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Brown were born the fol- lowing children, viz: Mrs. Anna F. Ives, now of 290 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Forest, Livingston County; Elizabeth, deceased; Carrie P., wife of Thomas Claris, of Ciillom, 111.; Celinda, deceased; Ida, wife of Edward Hevener, a farmer, of Pella Township; Sadie, wife of Al- bert McKinney, of Piper City; Charles, who died in cbildliood; Lula, Mabel, Willie and Iva, at home. Tlie children have all received good edu- cational advantages and the older ones are now occupying useful and responsible positions in life. Mrs. Brown and all the children, save the young- est two, are Presb3'terians, as was also Mr. Brown, who served as a Trustee. They are worthy citi- zens of the communit}', and have the warm regard of many friends. In politics, Mr. Brown was a Republican, having supported that party since be cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lin- coln. On the evening of the 10th of May, 1892, he with his family attended a church social, returning home at lialf past ten o'clock. Within a few min- utes, he complained of not feeling well; medical aid was called, but nothing could be done to re- lieve him. At two o'clock the -next morning, bis spirit took its flight. IIis loss was mourned by bis family and man 3- friends, for lie was a kind fatlier, husliand and valued citizen. His remains were laid to rest in tiie Cliatsworth Cemetery. -^=^^>-^^l IS— w ^J^/UGUST BUCHHOLZ, one of the extensive im/Ul land-owners and a prominent and intlu- ifc ential citizen of Ford County, residing on section 1, Peach Orchard Township, claims Prussia as the land of his nativity, and the date of his birth was August 14, 1824. His parents were Christopher and Elizabeth Buchholz, and their fam- ily numbered four sons and two daughters: Henry, Elizabeth, William, Rica, August and Charles, but our subject is now the only surviving one. His father was a shoemaker and followed that trade in pursuit of fortune. Both he and his wife have also passed away. August Buchholz attended the common schools until fourteen years of age and then learned the shoemaker's trade, at which he worked with his father until twenty years of age, when he enlisted 292 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAIHICAL RECORD. 1 in the army in his native land, serving a term of three years. He coutinucfl to reside in Prussia until 1852, when hebade good-bye to home and friends and embarked for America upon a sailing- vessel which reached New York about a month later. He then continued his journey across the country to Chicago, tlien just beginning to be a town of some importance, and there commenced to work at his trade for 14 per month. After a short time, however, he began work on the Illinois Cen- tral Railroad, which was then in process of build- ing, and was thus employed for about a year, after which he went to Magnolia, Putnam Countj% and established a shoe shop, cavrj'ing on business in that line until 1865. In that year, he removed to Marshall County, where he engaged in farming for two years, after which he came to Ford Count3'and purchased three hundred and twenty acres of land, located on section 1, Peach Orchard Township. Here he has made his home continuously since, car- rying on general farming and stock-raising, and in all his business undertakings he has met with that success which comes as the result of industry, en- terprise and perseverance, supplemented by good man.agement and close attention to all the details of l)usiness. As his financial resources have in- creased, he has added to his possessions, until his lands now aggregate al)out fifteen hundred acres. Besides his liome farm, he now owns eighty acres on section 35, and one hundred and sixty acres on section 10, Peach Orchard Township; one hundred and sixty-eight acres in Lyman Township; three hundred and twenty acres in Oceola County, Iowa; and six hundred acres of improved land m .Jack- son County, Minn. On the 14th of October, 1855, Mr. Buchholz was united in marriage with Miss Caroline Funte. Their union has been blessed with eight children, and the family circle is still unbroken at this writ- ing, the spring of 1892. The three eldest, Charles, Albert and William, are all business men of Mel- vin; Amanda and Emma are at home; Frank and Laura are attending the Normal College of Bloom- ington. 111., and May completes the number. The Buchholz household is the abode of hospitality and its members rank high in social circles. In his political alliliations, Mr. Buchholz is a Re- publican but has never sought or desired public offlce, preferring to devote his entire attention to his business, which he has followed with signal success. He maj- truly be called a self-made man and his life should serve to encourage others, who, like himself, have to start out to fight life's battle empty-handed. He is now one of the wealthy cit- izens of the count}' as well as one of the leading men, and it is with pleasure that we present this sketch to our readers. J****,* i,****!- =l***+^^''M"i-+" \t|O.SEPH FARLIN, deceased, was born in Tazewell County, 111., April 10, 1858, and died at his home in Drummer Township, on the 9th of September, 1887, respected by all who knew him. His parents were Jonas and Mar- tha (Lattimore) Farlin,the former a native of New York and the latter of New Jersey, although both were of English descent. In early life, they emi- grated to Ohio, where they were married, and unto them were born six children, as follows: Samuel, Pernielia, Charles, Harriet, Thomas, John and Joseph. The parents were both members of the Methodist Church, and the father w.as a Republican in political sentiment. Joseph Farlin, whose name heads this record, acquired his education in the common schools of the neighborhood during the winter months, while in the summer season he aided his father in the farm work. At the age of twenty-seven, he en- gaged in farming for himself and secured as a com- panion and helpmate on life's journey Miss Ellen Roberts, their union being celebrated on the 23d of November, 1876. The lady is a native of Taze- well County, 111., born January, 18, 1858, and is a daughter of Joseph and Catherine (Bosserman) Roberts, who reared a family of ten children. Mr. and Mrs. Roberts came to Ford County in 1877, and he purchased five hundred and twenty acres of fine land, known as one of the best farms in this community. Upon it he made his home for a num- ber of years, but sold in 1886 and removed to Jas- per County, 111., where he again purchased land, now owning some thirteen hundred acres. In PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 295 politics, he is a supporter of Rei)iil)Iican principles. Hie wife died February 28, 1891, in the faith of the Methodist Church. After his marriage, Mr. Farliu embarked in farm- ing in Tazewell County, 111., where he remained for three years, when, in 1881, he came to Ford County and purchased eighty acres of land in Drummer Townshij). He afterward added to it another eighty-acre tract and this farm of one hun- dred and sixty acres he placed under a high state of cultivation, making many improvements thereon which added greatly to its value and attractive ap- pearance. He was an industrious and enterprising man and met with well-deserved success in his un- dertakings. He continued farming up to the time of liis death, which occurred September 9, 1887. Since the death of her Inisband, Mrs. Farlin has left the farm and removed to the village of Proc- tor, where she is now living, but the management of her land is still under her personal supervision. She is a most estimable lady and has many friends throughout this community'. Her two children, Clementine and George Bruce, are still with her. OHN ROHRBACH, who is engaged in gen- oral farming on section 26, Brenton Town- ship, has the honor of being a native of l}}^/. Illinois. He was torn in Tazewell County, September 22, 18.51, and is a son of Conrad and Mary (Dingledine) Rohrbach, both of whom were natives of (iermany. The grandfather was a Ger- man soldier and served under Napoleon through tlie Italian campaign, until the battle of Waterloo. Tiie father of our subject came to America in 1832, when thirteen years of age, sailing from Havre to New Orleans and up the river to Havana, 111. After one vear spent at that place, he went to Peoria, 111., which was then called Ft. Clark. He learned the cooper's trade, which he followed some years and also engaged in teaming to Chicago when that city contained onl}' a hotel, a fort and a few cabins. He could have bought a quarter- section of laud in that locality for a yoke of oxen. Mr. Rohrbacli was married, in Tazewell County, to Miss Dingledine, who came from (iermany to this country when a maiden of sixteen summers. In that county he cleared and improved a farm and also followed his trade until the winter of 1858, when he came to Ford County and purcliased one hundred and sixty acres of land, the farm upon which our subject now resides, to which he removed his family in 1861. The land was all wild and uncultivated and much of it was still in the possession of the Government. His nearest neighbor was two miles away, and wild game of all kinds was plentiful. Mr. Rohrbach resided upon his farm until 1875, when he removed to Piper City where his death occurred July 12, 1884, at the age of sixty-three years. His wife died Au- gust 14, 1889. She was a member of the Lutheran Church and .ifterward joined the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Rohrbach held memliershii) with the Reformed Cliureii. He took considerable interest in political affairs and supported the Democratic party until 1860, after which he voted with the Republican party until 1880, when he again su|)- ported the Democratic party. He held a number of local offices and was a member of the Masonic fra- ternity. From the .age of thirteen years, he made his own way in the world, and for his success in life deserved much credit. Four children were born unto Mr. and Mrs. Rohrbach: Henry, now deceased; Kate, wife of B. E., Laraborn, a resident of Thawville, Iroquois County; .John, of this sketch; and Mary Matilda, dece.ised, who was the wife of W. W. Post, of Piper Cit3'. All of these children were born in Tazewell County. Our subject has been a resident of Ford County since nine years of age. His early education, ac- quired in the common schools, was su|)plemented by a course in Onarga Seminary, after which he engaged in teaching school for four years, and at the same time read law under the instruction of Gilbert Wyman, of Chatsworth, and then engaged in teaching school in Indiana for three terms. He w.as admitted to the 15ar in that State in l«76,and engaged in practice for some time at North Man- chester, Wab,ash County, when he aliandcmod that profession and returned to the old home farm, of 296 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. which he assumed the management. He has re- sided upon the farm since 1877, and tlie liighly cultivated fields, witli tlieir many excellent im- provements, tell that his life has been a busy and useful one. On the 17th of .June, 1884, in Piper City, Mr. Kolirbach led to the marriage altar Miss Alice Jef- fery, daugliter of Thomas .Jeffery, whose sketch ap- pears elsewhere in this work. .She was born in Brenton Townshi[). By their union, they have three children: Marietta, .John Henry and Eva Isabel. The family hold a high position in social circles. Sir. Rohrbach is a member of the Masonic fra- ternity and the Odd Fellows' society of Piper City, and cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. Grant in 1872, since which time he h.as been a stalwart Republican. He aided in the organization of the Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Brenton Township, and was First Lieutenant of the com- pany of militia in Piper City for some years. He is an intelligent, well-informed man, industrious, energetic, public-spirited and progressive. He is numbered among the representative citizens of the community where he has so long made his home. >» i 1 1 1 p I ■ 1 » 1 > I < . I -. ELIAS B. BEIGHLE resides on section 3, Lyman Townshii). It is said that the his- tory of a county is best told in the lives of its people, so we here record the sketch of one of the representative citizens of this community. Mr. Beighle was born in Butler Ccnuity, Pa., February 14, 1836. His parents, Daniel and Catherine (Kifer) Beighle. had a family of si.x; sons and six daughters, of whom he was the third in order of birth. The father was born in Penns3'lvania, was a carpenter and joiner by trade, and also followed the occupation of farming. Bidding good-bye to his old home in 1856, he emigrated to Adams County, Ohio, and, in 1868, removed to St. Clair County, Mo., where he purchased land and en- gaged in farming until his death, which occurred at the age of seventy-seven years. In politics, he was first a Whig, and then a member of the Know- nothing party, and afterward became a Republican. Himself and wife were members of the Lutheran Church in early life, but afterward united with the Methodist Church. The lady w.as l)orn in Pennsyl- vania, in 1810, and died in .January, 1892, at the advanced age, of eighty-two years. Si.x of their children are yet living: Elias, of this sketch; Caro- line, wife of Mr. Baumgardner, a farmer of Indiana; Sue C, wife of Mr. Brooks, a carpenter and joiner of St. Clair County, Mo.; Benjamin, a farmer of Cowlitz County, Wash.; Isaac Newton, who is mar- ried, and is a lumberman of Cowlitz County; and Melissa, wife of Mr. Gardner, a farmer. Mr. Beighle of this sketch remained in tlie State of his nativitj'' until nineteen years of age, and was reared to agricultural pursuits. At the .age of twenty-two, he began earning his own livelihood, working as a farm hand in Pendleton County, Ky., at $14 per month. After a short time, however, he went to Adams County, Ohio, where he spent eight years, and during that time led to the marriage altar Miss Catherine Wallace, a daughter of .Tosiah and Eliza (Smith) Wall.ace. They were married on the 1st of January, 1862, and unto them have been born five sons and four daughters, seven of whom are yet living: INIary, who was educated in the Normal School of Danville, Ind., has successfully engaged in teaching in this county for six terms, and is a member of the United Presbyterian Church; Roscoe W., who was educated in Danville and the Valparaiso State Normal of Indiana, is one of the professors in Clark's Universit^y; Anna Ketura, who was educated in Grand Prairie .Seminary, of Onarga, 111., is a teacher of recognized ability in this county; Calvin Spence, who was educated in Onarga Sem- inary, follows farming; Marcus M., Leila Louisa and Ernest, are yet at home. In 1884, Mr. Beighle was called upon to mourn tlie loss of his wife, wIk) died on the 6th of March and was laid to lest in the cemetery of Roberts. She was a kind and lov- ing wife and mother, and was a devoted member of the United Presbyterian Church. During the late war, Mr. Beighle gave evidence of his loyalty to the Government by enlisting, in .Tune, 1863, .as a member of Company A, Second Ohio Heavy Artillery, under Capt. George F. Son- ner. The troops were first ordered to Rolling PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD 297 Fork. Ky.. where they did guard duty, and were then sent to Chattanooga, and to Clevehiud to guard the raihoad. We next find them at Knox- ville, Tenn., after whicli they went to Church Gap. At the close of the war, our subject was mustered out in Nashville, Tenn., in August, 1865, and was honorably discharged at Columbus, Ohio, on the 28th of August. He was a faithful soldier and was never off duty, except when sick in the hospital for about six weeks. He now receives a good pen- sion in recognition of his faithful service. jSIr. Beighle cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln, and is an inflexible adherent of Republican principles. He has been officially con- nected with the public schools of this community for many years and has done much for their ad- vancement by securing good teachers. With the United Presbyterian Church of Piper City he holds membership, and in the community where he re- sides lie is recognized as a gentleman of irreproach- able ciiaracter whose word is as good as his bond. He now owns one hundred and twenty acres of good l.aud, and is accounted one of the substantial farmers of the community. ll@"©@l" W^\ EY. EDWIN vS. McCLURE, Pastor of the [Urr Presbyterian Church of Piper City, was born i4i\\\ in Des IMoiues County, Iowa, February 6, '^^1 1861, and is of Scotch descent. The great-grandfather of our subject, the founder of the family in ,\moriea, was a native of .Scotland. The grandfather, William IMcClure, removed from Ohio to Iowa in 1850, and there engaged in farm- ing until his death, which occurred during the war. John McClure, the father of our subject, was born in Illinois but reared in Iowa as a farmer. He graduated from the Yellow S|>rings College, of Kossuth, Iowa. In 1859, near Sparta, 111., he mar- ried Miss Jane Campbell, a lady of Scotch descent. In 1861, at the first call for three-year men, he en- listed in October as a member of the Fourteenth Iowa Infantry, and participated in the battles of Ft. Henry, Ft. Donelson and Shiloh. He was in the thickest of the fight on that memorable Sunday afternoon and was taken prisoner and for tliree months confined at Macon, (ia., where the prisoners were almost starved. On his release, he rejoined his regiment at St. Louis and participated in the siege of Vicksburg, the Red River campaign and the campaigns under Gens. Grant and Sherman. He was in the service for three years and one month. On his return home, he continued to en- gage in farming in Iowa for a few years, and then accepted a professorship in the Deaf and Dumli Institute of Omaha, Neb., where he remained for fifteen years. He then resigned on account of failing eyesight, resulting from his army experience. He is now living on a fine farm near Sioux City, Iowa. In politics, he is a stanch Republican and is a member of the Grand Army Post. Hiin.sclf and >vife are both active members of the Presby- terian Church and are highly respected people. The McClure family numbered eight children, two of whom are deceased. Our subject is the eldest; Addie, who has been a teacher in deaf and dumb institutes both in Kansas and Minnesota, is now at home; William is engaged in merchandising in Omaha, Neb.; D. F. is a professor in a deaf and dumb asylum in Faribault, Minn.; Lillie died in 1887, at the age of fourteen years; Bertha and Grace are at home. The Rev. Mr McClure was educated at Parsons' College, of Fairlield, Iowa, Lake Forest University and the Seminary of the Northwest, now called the McCormick Theological .School. He siient three years in that school, studying for the ministry, and after his graduation at the age of twenty-five, he- came Pastor of a Presbyterian Church in Lenox, Iowa, where he remained for two years. During that time he was united in marri.age, on the 27th of June, 1888, to Sarah M. Gordon, a native of the Hawkeye State. Their union has been blessed with one daughter, Edna Lucile, who was born July 27, 1889, and died March 20, 1892. On leaving Lenox, ]\Ir. McClure accepted a call from the church in Red Oak, Iowa, where he re- mained for two years, when he engaged in mission work in Oinalia, Neb., spending one year in that city. On the 1st of April, 1891, he came to Piper City, and has since been Pastor of the Presbyterian 298 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Church at this phice. His labors have been very successful. During the past year he had sixty-one additions. He is held iu the highest regard, not only by the members of his own congregation but by all who know him, his upright life and court- eous manner winning him high esteem. He is a man of great energy and perseverance and his church is now in a flourishing condition. In pol- itics, be is a stanch Republican, having supported that party since he attained his majority. AC015 DELLO MELMXfJKR. Prominent among the lai'ge farm owners and stock men of Drummer Township should be mentioned the gentleman whose name beads this sketch, and who has been a resident of Gibson since April, 1873. He was born in Lan- caster Count}', Pa., August 13, 1841, and is a .son of Jacob and Martha (Ilertzler) Mellinger. His parents were also natives of Lancaster County, and his father was descended from an old Penn- sjlvanian family of German origin, whose settle- ment in the Keystone State dates prior to the War of the Revolution, five generations remote. Jacob Mellinger, 8r., was born Jul}' 28, 1802, and on the 30th of August, 1831, married Martha Ilertzler. He removed to Clarke County, Ohio, in 181!). He was a farmer by occupation, and fol- lowed that pursuit throughout his entire life. His death occurred April 23, 1888, at the age of eighty-five years, eight months and twenty-six days. His wife was born in 1812, and died in Oiiio in 1890. They have two daughters and two sons: Mar}', who resides in Clarke Count}-, Ohio; John II., who wedded Rachel Rosser, and is living in Yellow .Siirings, Greene County, Ohio; Martha, wife of Montgomery Patton, of Clarke County, Ohio: and Jacob D., of this sketch. Our subject was but eight years of age when his parents removed to Clarke County, Ohio. He was there reared to manhood, attended the common schools in his childhood and later took a regular course in Antioch College, of Yellow Springs, Ohio. On reaching man's estate, be began farming and stock-raising for himself and, as a helpmate on life's journey, chose Miss Martha Ellen Wheeler, their marriage being celebrated in S|)ringHeld, Oiiio, on tlie 7th of December, 1871. The lady .vas born in the city of Springfield and is a daugh- ter of the Hon. Stephen and Mary (Thompi )n) Wheeler, both of whom were natives of CI; ike County, Ohio, and were of Scotch-Irish descent. Her father, who was a man of fine scholarly at- tainments, was a member of the Ohio Legislature. He died when liis daughter was nine years old, but his widow still survives and is living with our subject. Two children were born unto Mr. and JIis. Mellinger, the elder of whom, Dello, was born May 18, 1877, and died at the age of sixteen mouths. Frank Ilertzler, the younger, was born December 5, 188G, and is a bright and |)roniising boy of nearly six years. In addition to their own family, Mr. and Mr.s. Mellinger took, at the age of seven years, Louie J. Mellinger, whom they educated in the Gibson City schools and iu Lake Forest University, where she pursued a musical course, becoming quite noted as a vocalist. While in the university, she became sick, was brought home and died five weeks later, February 27, 1887, aged twenty years. In 1871. our subject and his father bought a half interest in a fine tract of land, C(jnsisting of nine hundred and sixty acres, in Drummer Town- ship, now adjoining (iibson City, the land at that time belonging equally to J. H. Mellinger and Jacolt Ilertzler. In 1875, our subject purchased Mr. Ilertzler's remaining interest and removed here with his family. He at once erected fine buildings on the premises, tiled, fenced, and other- wise improved the land. In 1883, be purchased his father's interest, tlie tract now being owned by J. D. and J. H. Mellinger, ecpially. In the past nine years about two hundred and eighty acres have been .sold at from $75 to $100 per acre. The remaining land is considered worth not less than $125 per acre. JSIr. Mellinger has lately i>latted a number of lots and is putting them on the market. In addition to the half interest of the land of J. D. and J. H. Mellinger, our subject owns indi- \ I 1 PORTRAIT AMD BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 303 viiUmlly n fine lioine .•irljoininij; Gibson City. Fie luases liis f'ainiiiii,^ huid, and has the luniainder in glass, lie deals extensively in cattle and hogs, buying, feeding and selling. He also bieeds stand- ard-l.u'ed horses ijuite extensively. In his political atliiiations, Mr. Mellinger is a stalwart I\e|)ul)lican, but has never been ambitious of ofiicial distinction. He attends the First Pres- byterian Church regularly with his wife, who is a consistent member of that congregation. For many 3ears he has been a Director of the (iibson Building ife Loan Association, and is now a mem- ber of the Gibson Land Improvement Company, recently organized. He was one of the fust to advocate the advisability of bnihting pike roads with gravel in the region of (iibson, and, while serving as Commissioner, inaugurated that im- portant public improvement, which has since proved a grand success and aided materially in fa- cilitating travel and transportation. There are now many miles of road leading to Gibson City, that through the piking .system have made good roads even in the wettest weather. In all the relations of life, Mr. Mellinger has proved himself an upright, honorable business man, a good neighbor and worthy citizen, and enjoys, as he merits, the respect and good-will of all who know him. "02" RTIIUK S. CATRON, who owns one of the finest farms of the county, located on sec- tion 3."), Drummer Township, has the honor of being a native of Illinois. He was born in Fulton Count}', August 24, 18.'5i),and is a son of Israel M. and Savina (Smith) Catron. His father was born and reared in Virginia and throughout life followed agricultural pursuits. In an early tlay, he emigrated to Illinois, locating in Fulton County, where he rejnained fifteen years. He was there married, in 1838, to l\Iiss Smith, who was born in Fast Tennessee, and with her parents came to Illinois before the Black Hawk War. On leaving this State, the parents of our subject went to Polk County, Iowa,where the father resided until 13 1881, when he went to Walla Walla Valley in the State of Washington and operated the farm which he yet occupies. His wife died in 1844 and was buried in Fulttm County. They had a family of three children: Arthur S., of this sketch; Nancy E., now deceased, and George E , an engineer in Ari- zona. Our subject acquired a common-school education, and at the age of nineteen Ijegan teaching, which I)rofession he followed until the 1 1th of October, 1861. Promi)ted by i)atriotic impulses, he re- sponded to the call for troops, and enlisted as a member of Company D, Second Iowa Cavalry, for three years. On the expiration of that period, he veteranized and was in the service until the 7th of October, 18()5, when he was mustered out at Sel- ma, Ala.,as First Sergeant of hiscomi)anv. He par- ticipated in eighty-three engagements, including the siege of Corinth and the battles of luka, Cor- inth, Tupelo, Nashville, Jackson and Moscow, and many others. On his return home, Mr. Catron embarked in merchandising in Ipava, Fulton County, 111., fol- lowing that business for a year, and then began fanning, to which occupation he has devoted his energies continuously since. He is one of the most extensive farmers in Drummer Township. He has twenty-nine head of horses and makes a specialty of raising an excellent grade of horses of the Nor- man stock. He has some of the finest mares in this section of the country. Ere leaving Fulton Count}', Mr. Catron was united in marriage, July 20, 1866, the lady of his choice being Mary S. Lacey, who was born in that county April 25, 1849, and is a daughter of John and C'loe (Hurd) Lacey, natives of the Empire State and of English and Irish extraction, resi)ect- ively. Eight children have been born of their union, but Manning C, their eldest, and Lyman C, their fourth child, are now deceased. The living are Roscoe M., Arthur B., Bayard D., Mary D.. Bruce and John. In politics, Mr. Catron exercises his right of franchise in support of the Republican party, of which he is a stanch advocate. He cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln. While residing in McLean County, he served as Justice 304 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. of the Peace two terms and was also a school officer. Socially, he is a member of Bloomington Post No. 146, G. A. R. Ill 1892, he located on the celebrated Roberts' farm on sections 8, 26, 34 and 35, Drummer Township. It contains five hundred and three acres, for which he paid $75 per acre. It is highly improved, well cultivated and one of the most desirable places in the county. Mr. Cat- ron is recognized as a pul)lic-spirited and progres- sive citizen of Drummer Township. «^»= ^ NDKEW P. UREMER is iiigaged in farm- ing on section 8, Patton Township. Svveden has furnished many worthy citizens to Ford County, and not the least of these is our subject, who was born in that country August 28, 1845. He had no special advantages in his youth save fair school privileges. His childhood dajs were spent upon his father's farm, where he was early inured to labor; he later learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed for a time. With the adventurous spirit of young men and also with the hope of bettering his financial condi- tion by emigrating to the New World, of whose advantages he had heard so much, Mr. Bremer sailed for America on a steamer which left Gotten- burg on the 7th of Maj-, 1869, and dropped anchor in the harbor of New York on the 7th of June, an entire month being consumed in making the trip. He at once came to the West, stopping first at Chicago, and thence came to Paxton. He found himself a stranger in a strange land, with no friends near and no one to whom he might look for aid. He spent the first two summers after his arrival in a brick-yard near Paxton, then began working bj' the mouth as a farm hand, which oc- cupation he followed until 1877. In April of that year, Mr. Bremer led to the marriage altar Miss Nellie Anderson, who was born and reared in Sweden and is a daughter of A. W. Anderson, now deceased. Mr. Bremer had pre- viously purchased eighty acres of land and the young couple began their domestic life upon that farm. Their home has been blessed by the pres- ence of four children: Anna, Harry, Hilina and Agnes. Harry and Ililnia are attending the home school. Anna is attending school in Paxton. Mr. Bremer at once began to clear and improve his farm. It was covered with a good crop of cuc- kleburrs, and a small frame house wa-s the only im- provement. Not a tree or bush was to be found upon the place, but furrows were soon turned, un- til acre after acre had been placed under a high state of cultivation and the fields were tiled and fences built, so that now it is one of the fine farms in the community. There is also a substantial and comfortable residence and a good orchard has been planted, while, with the additional forty acres that has been purchased, a valuable tract of one hundred and twenty acres now pays a golden trib- ute to the care and cultivation of Mr. Bremer. Like many of his fellow-countrymen, our subject came to America empty-handed but he was pos- sessed of a thrifty and industrious nature and was not afraid of hard work. His life has been well and worthily spent, and he is justly regarded as a man of sterling character and integrity. In pol- itics, he does not affiliate with any party but votes for the candidate whom he thinks best qualified to fill the position. He has served as a member of the School Board and is a warm friend of the cause of education, believing in good schools and competent teachers, if the children are to be trained for useful and responsible positions in life. He and his wife are members of the Lutheran Cliurch of Farmersville. ■^=m>^^<^ /^ ARY M. CONGER, a retired farmer, resid- (|( ^.^ ing on section 7, Drummer Township, was ■^^ born in Licking County, Ohio, on the 24th of May, 1826, and is a son of Aaron and Mary (McVay) Conger, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania, while the former was of Scotch and the latter of Irish descent. They were married in the Keystone State, and, about 1820, removed to Licking County, Ohio, which was then an almost unbroken forest. The father was crippled by rheu- matism in his arms, not being able to raise his PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 30.5 liands to liis face. He was thus Incapacitated for labor, but was a good manager. His wife was one among a tiiousand women, of good business ability and an industrious and self-sacrificing lad3-. Both died at the age of seventy-four years. The mother was a member of the Christian Church. In their family were twelve children, live of wliom are yet living. Our sul)jecl was the fourth in order of birtli. He was reared in a wooded couutr\-, and as soon as old enough to pick brush, he began to aid in clear- ing the farm. Wlien about thirteen years of age, he was taught to weave and, from that time until he attained his majority, wove the cloth with which the family were clothed. This was done during rainy weather and after the fall work was finished. His lime being thus largely occupied, his educa- tional advantages were necessarily limited. Having remained with his father until twenty-one years of age, he hired out at ^9 per montli, clearing land and farming m among the stumps. In iiis early life he used an old-fasiiioned sickle in reaping the grain and afterwaid cut it with a cradle, lie be- came expert in this direction, being able to cut five acres of oats in a day. In Licking, Ohio, Mr. Conger was married Sep- tember 21, 1847, to Miss Rebecca Marriott, a native of Licking County. In 18.54, he came with his young wife to McLean County, 111., locating near Towanda, and in 1877, he removed to Ford County, and became Superintendent of a section of Sud- deth farm, four miles west of Gibson City. He there continued to reside until 1889, when he re- moved to Gibson City, where he has since lived retired. Unto Mr, and Mrs. Conger have been born live children: William M., who operates the Suddeth farm; Aaron R., a farmer of Oregon; Mary; Elmer, who is engaged in agricultural pursuits in Drum- mer Township; and Rosa. In politics, Mr. Conger is independent, voting for the man he thinks best qualified to fill the olHcc, regardless of part}- atlilia- tious. In life he has had much to contend with, but nevertheless he has worked his waj' upward and is now able to live retired. W. M. Conger, son of the foregoing, was born in Licking County, Ohio, June 12, 1848, and ac- quired his education in liie common schools. On attaining his majority, he started out in life for himself, renting land in Ford and McLean Coun- ties, and has made farming his life work. He is now the overseer of the noted Suddeth farm. In Jlarch, 1879, he entered u\Km the duties of that position and now operates four hundred acres of good land, the neat appearance of which indicates his tiirift and enterprise. On the 9th of Sei)teinber, 1874, Mr. Conger was joined in wedlock with Louise Donner, who was born in Iowa, September 10, 1854, and is a daughter of Greenbur^' and Mary Ann Donner, both of whom are now deceased. Seven children have been born unto our subject and his wife, namely: Cary Roy, born July 11, 1875; HattieE., March 1, 1878; Mandy M., Novem- ber 5, 1880; Grade P., on the 2d of January, 1884; Harvey M., November 6, 1886; Orville W., Janu- ary 21, 1890; and Goldie, March 7, 1892. The parents are both members of the United Brethren Church and the three eldest children also belong. Mr. Conger has served as Church Trustee for four years, was Sunday-school Treasurer two 3'ears and Steward two years and is now serving the third term as District School Director; he was also Superintendent of the Sunday-school for three terms. The family is well and favorably known in tliis community and its members rank high in the social circles in which they move. IL^ENRY H. LEININGER, who for twenty- two years has made his home in Ford County, is now living retired in Piper City. He was born in Stark County, Ohio, August 15, 1839, and is a son of Jacob and Eliza- beth (Sclusser) Leininger, both of whom were na- tives of Pennsylvania. They were married in Ohio and came to Illinois in 1857, locating in Eden Township, La Salle County, where Mr. Lein- inger spent the remainder of his life. He died in 18fi8, at the .age of seventy-three years. His widow is still living at the age f)f eighty-six and makes her home with our subject. He was a life- 306 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. long member of the Methodist Churcli and a highly respected citizen. The family numbered nine sons and two daughters, three of whom are still living: George S., who makes his home in Vir- ginia; J. W., a resident of Tonica, 111.; and Henry H. Our subject was the sixth son. His boyhood days were spent upon a farm in Ohio until six- teen years of age, when he came to Illinois. He had begun his school life in his native State and completed his education in select schools of Peru and Tonica. On attaining his majority, he started out in life for himself, and, in 18G0, made an overland trip to Colorado, arriving at his destina- tion after four weeks of travel. He spent three years in the Empire mining district and helped locate the village of Georgetown. In the winter of 1863-64, he returned to Illinois and began farm- ing in Lee County on land given him by his father. He there made his home for three years, when, in the autumn of 1867, he sold out. The following jear, he purchased land in Ford County, where he has made his home since 1870. He owned all of section 8, in Pella Township, and en- gaged in agricultural pursuits until 1874, when he removed to Piper City, where he is now living a retired life. In 1876, he was proprietor of a drug- store in Chatsworth. He still owns three hun- dred and twenty acres of land, which jields to him a good income. December 6,1864, in La Salle County, Mr. Lein- inger was united in marriage with Miss Alice G. McPherson, who was born in that county and is a daughter of Harvey McPherson, of Iiish descent. They have one child, .Jennie, wiio was born in Lee County, and is now the wife of Albert Doo- little, of Dixon, 111. She graduated from the Piper City schools, and completed her education in Onarga Seminary. Mr. Leininger cast his first Presidential vote for Lincoln in 1860, and has since been a stanch supporter of the Republican part3- and has often served as a delegate to its conventions. He has served as Trustee of Piper City, and also as Presi- dent of the Village Board. Socially, he is a mem- ber of the Masonic fraternit}', and his wife holds membership with the Methodist Church, to the support of which he contributes liberally. He is one of the highly respected citizens of the commu- nity and has made his own way in life. He is now well-to-do, having acquired through his own cf- h)rts a handsome competence. f(^\ ETII LYTLE, who is ^^^^ life in Paxton, is a xJLi^ was born near Somci [=~ ETII LYTLE, who is now living a retired native of Ohio. He r Somcrsville, Butler County, March 25, 1817, and is a son of William Lytle, who was a native of Pennsylvania and of Irish descent. His mother bore the maiden name of Annie Glines, and was of English lineage. They became the parents of eight children, the eldest of whom, Melinda, died at the age of six years; Seth is the second in order of birth; .John died in infancy; Daniel resides in Butler County, Ohio; James, a weaver by trade, resides in Butler County; Samuel carries on farming in Champaign County, 111.; Mary Ann is the wife of Isaac A. Rockhill, a resi- dent farmer of Richland County, Wis.; and .Jane P. died at the age of eight yeais. The father of this family was born August 12, 1792, and died November 6, 1869. The death of his wife occurred August 2.5, 1889, and had she lived till March 25, following, would have been ninety-six years old. Both were members of the Methodist Church. Seth Lytle was reared to manhood upon his father's farm, and the first school which he attended was in a small log-cabin, built in the woods, three miles from his father's home. During nine years, he was able to attend school but ninety-five days, which was the extent of his schooling. At the age of seventeen, he bought his time of his father, pay- ing him $65, and then began to work as a farm hand in the neighborhood by the month. He continued to reside m Ohio until 1841, when he emigrated Westward to Montgomery County, Ind., where he was again engaged in agricultural pursuits. In that county, in the autumn of 1843, Mr. Lytle was united in marriage with Miss Maria Fink, daughter of John and Mary (Climer) Fink. Having rented a farm for some time, he moved to Thorntown and engaged in huxtering. Going to PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 307 La Fayette, Ind., he engaged in the grocery busi- ness a year, when he went to Montgomery Count}', Ind., and after farming five years bought a tannerj' and ran it six years. Tlie year 1859 witnessed his ar- rival in Ford County. He made his first settlement in Wall Township, where he purchased two hundred and sixty acres of land on section 19, the purchase price being 13.50 per acre. It continued to be his home for twenty years, or until 1879, when he came to Paxton, where he has since resided, with the exception of five years which he spent in Kansas. He was tliere extensively engaged in farming but is now living a retired life, having gained a suflieient competency to enable him to lay aside all business cares. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Lytle were born ten children: Annie, who died in infancy; Elvira, wife of D. 1^. Denman,a contractor and builder residing in Pax- ton; William, a farmer; Mar}', wife of Samuel Long who follows agricultural pursuits in Republic County, Kan.; Melissa was the wife of Albert Haw, but is now deceased; Emma, wife of .lames Apple- gate, a resident farmer of Indiana; Alfred died in Indiana; Albert, who is in Kansas; Etta, wife of Frank Carr, living in Paxton; .and Hulda who died at the age of twelve years. In political affiliations, Mr. Lytle is a Prohibi- tionist, but at local elections votes for the man whom bethinks will best fill Ihe olfice. He has never sought or desired political preferment for himself, having been content to devote his atten- tion to his business interests. He is a well-known resident of Paxton, and is a public-spirited and progressive citizen who does all in his power for the interests of the community in which he resides. \l/_ IRAM Y. SIDESINGER, who is engaged in general farming on section 22, Drum- mer Township, was l)orn in Adams County, Pa., January 29, 1829, and is a son of Leonard and Nancy (Elcook) Sidesinger. The father was also a native of Adams County .and was one of three children born unto Grandfatlier Sidesinger, of Germany, who emigrated to Amer- ica in an early day. The children were Leonard, Margaret and Nancy. The first-named, the father of our subject, remained in Pennsylvania until 1830, when he came to Ohio, locating in Cham- paign County, where he engaged in farming until 1850. He then became a resident of Logan County, Ohio, where he made his home until his death, December 21, 1869. His wife, born .June 6, 1786, died a number of years previous, passing away about 1841, and was interred in Champaign Ceme- tery. Both were members of the Lutheran Church and the father spoke the German language. In politics, Mr. Sidesinger was first a Whig and after- ward a Republican. The family nvimbered ten children, as follows: Samuel, deceased; AVesley; Sarah, deceased; Alvina; John, of Logan County, Ohio; Harriet, deceased; Hiram, of this sketch; Gordon, Alfred and Rebecca, all of whom, with the exception of our subject, have passed away. In taking up the history of our subject, we present to our readers the life record of one of the worthy citizens of Drummer Township. Mr. Sidesinger acquired his education in the common schools and in an academy, where he pursued a long course of study, preparing him for a busi- ness career. He then engaged in teaching for a quarter of a century and also followed civil en- gineering. He w.as very successful in these lines, and with the money thus acquired, in 1876 he purch.ased a fine farm of one hundred and sixty acres under a high state of cultivation and well improved. He brought the same energy and in- dustry to .agriculture that char.acterized his other pursuits and is likewise meeting with success in this undertaking. On the 20th of May, 1861, Mr. Sidesinger was united in marriage to Miss Catiierine Wiles, who was born in Brown County, Ohio, February 14, 1839, and is a daughter of Fred. M. and Cath- erine (Foley) Wiles, also of Brown County, and of French and Scotch extraction, respectively. The union of our subject and his wife has been blessed with three children: .loliii C, a resident of Tippecanoe County, Ind.; U. S. (Jrant, deceased; and Cora M.ay, now the wife of Charles Moreland, an expressman on the Big Four Railroad at Fiirmers' City, I)e Witt County, III. 308 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. In politics, Mr. Sidesinger is a supporter of Re- inil)lic'aii principles iiiul has served as Deputy Sur- veyor for two terras. He cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. .Tolm C Fremont. lie and his wife are adheients c)f tlie Methodist Church. The^' lo- cated in Ford County in l.ssi.and have a pleasant home in Drummer Township, the hospitable doors of whicli are always open to their raau\' friends. ART.TON I. REMSBURG, one of the hon- 11 died veterans of the late war. who served his country faithfully and well in her struggle to preserve the Union, is engaged in gen- eral farming on section 3, L3-nian Township. He was born in Frederick County, Md., April 6, 1845, and is a son of Solomon and Mary Remslnirg. His father was a native of Mar\land anfl is now a re- tired farmei' of Bureau County, III. In early life, he was a Whig and east his first Presidential vote for William Henry Harrison. He is nf)w a .stanch Republican and a valuable citizen in the commun- ity where he yet resides. lie has reached the age of sevent^'-five years. Ilis wife died when our subject was an infant and her remains were interred in a cemetery of Ohio. She left two sons: Isaiah, who served for about eighteen months in Company I, Twelfth Illinois Infantry, is now married and follows farming in liuroau Count}'; Carlton is the next younger. By a second marriage there were three children but one died in infancy. Anna R., who is Postmistress of Ohio, Bureau County, 111., is the widow of James Ruff, who served as a soldier in the late war and was cashier in a bank in Ohio. George is married and is a successful farmer and stock-de.aler of Bureau County. The educational advantages which our subject received were those of the common schools. He was a lad of only fourteen years when he accom- panied his father to Bureau County, 111., where he remained until nineteen years of age, when, prompted by patriotic impulses, he enlisted in Com- pany A, One Hundred and Forty-cigiith Illinois Infantry in Janu.ary, 18(15, at Princeton, 111. The regiment was ordered to Quincy and then to Camp Butler, whence they were sent to Nashville and assigned to the Army of the Cumberland under Gen. Thomas. They were then ordered to Tulla- homa, Tenn., on guard duty. They afterward did guard duty in McMinnville, Tenn., and subse- quently returned to Nashville, where they were mustered out of service September 5, 1865, and honorably discharged at Springfield ten days later. During his service, Mr. Remsburg was taken .sick and confined in the Cumberland Hospital at Nash- ville, Tenn., for aboiit six weeks. With the ex- ception of this period, he w.as always found at his post of duty, faithful to the cause for which he had enlisted. On the 12th of December, 18G9, our subject was united in marriage with Sarah A. Ilauenstein, who was born in Indiana, July 23, 1849. Her father, Abraham Ilauenstein, w.as a native of .Switzerland and a farmer by occupation. He was born June 21, 1822, and died in Ford County in March, ls,S(i, at the age of fifty-eight years. His wife bore the maiden name of Susan Kindle, was a native of New Jersey and died at the age of forty yeai-s. Both were members of the Episcopal Church and the family numbered three children: Mary, wife of James Goodrich, a resident of Thawvillc, 1 11.; Sarah, wife of our subject, and Josei)h who married Miss Minnie T.aylor and is a landlord of Dwight, 111. Mrs. Remsburg w.as educated in the common schools and is a lady of genial and social disposi- tion who has proved a valued helpmate to her hus- band. They have three children: Josie, Blanche and Harold, and the family circle yet remains un- broken. Their home is pleasantly situated within two and a half miles of Thawville, upon a farm of (me hundred and thirty-seven acres, under a high state of cultivation and well improved. In politics, Mr. Remsburg has been a stanch Republican since he cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. U. S. Cirant. He has been a faithful school otiicial for nine j-ears, and the cause of education has found in him a warm friend, but he has never sought or desired the honors or emoluments of public office. Socially, he is a member of the Grand Armj' Post of Piper City, and its present Commander. He attended PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 309 the State Encampment at Springfield on the 6th, Till and 8th of April, 1892, as a delegate from his post. Ill' and his wife are held in tlie liighest re- gard tliroughout the community, and hy their upright lives and sterling wortli have won tlic confidence of all. ( I I * I 'I ■ I ' ^ ILTON T. SNYDI:R, who resides on sec- tion 22, Wall Township, is not only a A\ representative farmer of this coinraunit3', hut is also one of the early settlers. He was born on a farm near Keedysville, Washington Count}', Md., October 14, 1848, and is a son of Christian and Jane (Wright) Snyder. His father was a native of Pennsylvania and of German de- scent. By trade he was a weaver, but followed farm- ing throughout much of his life. The Snyder fam- ily numbered ten children, the eldest of whom, Adeline C, became the wife of David Bombarger and died in 1866; Elizabeth is the wife of David Snider, a shoe-maker residing in Odell, Ind.; Su- san, dece.ised, was the wife of William McBride, M. D.; Jacob is a real-estate agent residing in Indiana; Samuel follows farming in Wall Townshiji; John W. is engaged in farming near Harrison, Boone County, Ark.; iNIary J. is the wife of Perry Coon, an agriculturist of Indiana; Alfred follows farming near Estherville, Emmet County, Iowa; David is now deceased; and our subject completes the fam- iiy- It was in 1862 that Christian Snyder, accompa- nied by his wife and children, came to Illinois, lo- cating in Ford County. He rented a farm near Paxton, which he operated for two years, and then inirchased one hundred and sixty acres of railroad land on section 22, Wall Township, where he made his iiome until his death, a respected and valued citizen of the community'. In politics, lie was a sujiporter of Re|)ublican principles and was a member of the United Brethren Church, lie passed away on the 17th of April, 1873, and his wife died on the 11th of March, 1883. Milton Snyder, whose name heads tiiis record, was a lad of fourteen years when, with his parents. he came to Illinois. In this county he was reared to manhood, and in the district schools, which he attended until eighteen years of age, he completed his education. Under tiie [laiental roof he re- mained until he attained his majority, and then took charge of his father's farm. That place has been his home since the first location of the family here, thirty years ago. He now owns eighty acres of the old homestead, and engages in general farm- ing. His lields are well tilled, the place presents a neat and attractive appearance and everything is in keeping with the idea of a model farm. An important event, in the life of Mr. Snyder occurred on the 22d of December, 1870, when he led to the marriage altar Miss Maggie Rolib, daugh- ter of John and iNIary (Latimer) Rolib. They have a pleasant home, which is the abode of hospitality, and their friends in this community are many. The lady is a member of the United Presbyterian Church of Paxton. B3' their union have been liorn five children, two sons and three daughters, but two are now deceased. Those living are Zelda May, and Oscar and Nannie, twins. In his politi- cal alliliatioiis, Mr. Snyder is a Reiiiililican. He is also a member of the United Brethren Church, and one of the iirominent and well-known citizens of Wall Township. •^^1 .H^^;'Ei: 1^^^^ l)EV. JEREMIAH ALLGAIER, pastor of the ir \il German Lutheran Church of Melvin, is of iii W German liirtli. He was born in Wurtem- berg, Gerinanj', on the 31st of December, 18.55, and is a son of David and Rosiiia (Muehler) Allgaier. His parents were born and reared in the Old Country, and still reside there. The subject of this sketch was partially educated in his native land, where he remaiiKKl until the au- tumn of 1882, when he emigrated to America, and on reaching the shores of this country, came at once to Illinois. For two years, lie was a student in the Mendota Theological Seminary-, and was as- sistant pastor of the church of his denomination in Compromise, Chamiiaigii County. After complet- ing his studies, he was ordained, in 188.'j, a minister 310 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. of the Gerniaii Lutheran Church, anrl served as pastor at Compromise until xVpril, 1887. when he came to Melvin to accept the pastorate of the Mel- vin chureli. Its pulpit he has since filled, cover- in_o' a period of five years, and from this it will be seen that his services are very acceptable to his people. On the 18th of .September, 188;'), Mr. Allgaier was joined in wedlock to Miss Annie l.artell. the wedding being celebrated in Compromise, now R03'al, Champaign County. The lady is a native of Adams County, 111., Iiorn on the 4th of Febru- ary, 1861, and is a daughter of Fred and Agatha r.artcU. Four children have been born of the union of iMr. and Mrs. Allgaier, two sons and two daughters: Kose Agatha, born .Tuly 10, 188(1; Fred Godhelp, April 27, 1888; ISIartha :Mary, IMay 29, 1890; and Emanuel David, December 26, 1891. The German Lutheran Church of INIelvin was organized in 1872, the first p.astor being the Rev. George Suessc, who served from tiiat year until A)H-il, 1875, when he was succeeded by the Rev. Henry Ilebler, whose term of service continued from April, 1875 until April, 1878, when he was succeeded by the Rev. Helwig Staehling, who left the pastorate on the 15th of December, 1886. At that time the Rev. Mr. Allgaier became pastor, and has since filled that position. This society embraces about thirty-five families, and the present church edifice was erected in 1888. The church is in a flourishing condition, and prospers under the management of the pastor now in charge. v_ r~ 'JOSEPH .1. BROWN, an early settlor of Ford County, is now living a retired life in Piper City. For a number of years, he was a leading farmer of the community, and by his industry, perseverance and good management acquired a competency, which now enaliles him to rest and enjo}' the fruits of his former toil. Mr. Brown is of English birth. He w.as horn in Nortii- hamptonshire, January 10, 18;?9, .and is one of four sons and five daughters, whose parents were George and Louisa (White) Brown, natives of the same locality-. Our subject spent his early life in the usual manner of farmer lads, no event of special impor- tance occurring dining his childhood. At the age of seventeen, he left home and liegan earning his own livelihood. He worked on the railroad, or at any labor which would earn him an honest dollar, until he had attained liis majority, when he entered the military service of his country. He served in Ireland, was in Gibraltar for one year and five months, was on the Island of Malta for two years, in (Juebec and ISIontreal, Canada, for three years and then returned to (Tl.asgow, Scotland, where he was dischai'ged after eight years of service. Dur- ing a part of the time, he held the office of Cor- poral. On leaving the army, Mr. Brown visited his old home, after which he spent sf)me time in London, and, in March, 1868, sailed from Liver- pool to New York. He spent three years in the Empire State, engaging in farm work, spent one winter in the pineries of Michigan, and in the spring of 1872 came to Ford Count\'. For a time, he was employed upon the Sibley farm, after which he worked on the section of the railroad at Piper City and operated a hay-press. He also carried on a livery-stable, and when he had acquired a sufticient capital, purchased eighty acres of land in Pella Township and engaged in farming from 1878 until 1892. He now owns two hundred and twenty acres of fine land, the greater part of which is under a high state of cultivation and well improved. During the present 3ear, lie removed to Piper Cit}-, where he has a Ijeautiful new resi- dence and the pltiasant home is supplied with all the comforts and many of the luxuries of life. On the 21st of June, 1877, Mr. Ihown was united in marriage, in Chatsworth, with l\Irs. Car- rie White, a daughter of David and Sarah Ruff. She was born in Westmoreland County, Pa., when fifteen years of age went to Indiana, and in Val- paraiso was married to David White, a native of Hadley, Hampshire County, Mass. On coming to Illinois, they located in Ford County, where Mr. White died about nineteen years ago, leaving two sons: Charles F. and David M., both of whom are engaged in farming in Pella Township. Mrs. •SbBfc ■" iia^ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 313 Brown has resided in Ford County for twenty- three years, and has seen it« development from a wild, uncultivated tract to one of rich fertility. She is an estimable lady who has nianj' friends throughout the community. Mr. Brown is a Re- puhlican in politics, having supported that party since he cast his first Presidential vote for R. B. Il.ayes. Soci.ally, he is a meuihcr of the Odd Fel- lows' fraternity. He is a worthy citizen of the community, who takes a commendable interest in all that pertains to the welf.are and upbuilding of the county. c^^^ J. SOWERS, who resides on section 23, f/^^s Pella Township, is a native of the Keystone ^^^'' St.ate. He was born in Perry County, De- cember .30, 1840, and is a son of Daniel .and Eliza- beth (Reiber) Sowers. Both were of German descent; the former w.as born Mai-eh 14, 1813, and the latter in 1820. He gave his attention to farm- ing and, in politics, was a Whig and afterward a Republican. His wife died in 1857, and his death occurred when about seventy years of age. They had a family of eight children, three of whom arc now living: Thomas, of this sketch; Barbara E., widow of B. F. Bender, of Pennsylvania, and Sarah A., wife of Jacob Bender, of Perry County, Pa.; Caroline died at the age of eleven years; Margaret w.as married and died at the age of twenty-two; Samuel, who died at the age of thirty-four years; P>lizabeth, who died at the age of eighteen; and William H., who died at the Jige of eight years. The subject of this sketch acquired a good com- mon-school education and remained upon the home farm until he had attained his majority, when he worked at carpentering for one year, or until August, 1863, when he enlisted in the Thirty- sixth Pennsylvania Regiment of Home Guards, raised at the time of the Gettysburg invasion, and served two months. In September, 1864, he en- listed in the Two Hundred and Eighth Pennsyl- vania Infantry, and was Orderly Sergeant of Com- pany F, until the close of the war. The regiment was organized at Harrisburg and commanded bv Col. A. B. McAlmont. They did guard duty on the banks of the Apjiomattox and in the last of November were in front of Petersburg. At the battle of Ft. Stedman, on the 2.5tli of March, l.S6,5, in the charge the regiment lost one hundred men. The troops of the Two Hundred and Eighth parti- cipated in the ong.agement on the 2d of April, when Petersburg was captured, and followed Lee's Army, participating in the engagement at Ai)pomattox Court House, where Lee surrendered. They parti- cipated in the Gr.and Review at Washington and, returning to Harrisburg, were mustered out on the 6th of June, 1865. Mr. Sowers returned to Blain, Perry County, where he resumed work at the carpenter's trade. On the 22d of August, 1865, he was there united in marri.age with Miss Addie Snyder, a native of that county, and a daughter of John and Susan Snyder, who were natives of England. They began their domestic life in the Keystone State, where Mr. Sowers followed his trade until the spring of 1869, when he came with his family to Ford Count}', 111., and embarked in farming in I'ella Township, where he has since resided. In 1872, he was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, who died on the 7th of June, leaving one sen, John L., who was born July 2, 1866, was educated in the public schools, the Paxton Collegiate Insti- tute and the Normal School of ^"alparaiso, Ind. He successfully engaged in teaching for some time, and for the past two years has been in the railw.ay mail service. On the 3d of June, 1873, in Piper City, Mr. Sow- ers was again married, his second union being with M.aggie E. Taylor, a native of Pennsylvania and a daughter of George and Sarah Taylor, both of whom are still living. The father is now sixty- six years of age and the mother seventy-one. Our subject and his wife had a family of four children, but one is now deceased, Delmar Miles, the second child, who w.as born September 29, 1879, and died March 8, 1880. Those who still survive are George T., born September 6, 1874; Charles Roscoe, No- vember 6, 1882; and Lester Floyd, September 12, 1886. For nine j-ears Mr. Sowers has resided upon his jjreseut farm, a one hundred and twenty acre tract 314 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. of rich lanrl. well improvefl and under a high state of cultivation. lie has Iteen successful in his busi- ness career and is now nunihered among the sub- stantial citizens of the community. He has been called upon to serve in positions of public trust, having filled the otKcc of Township Clerk for four terms, was Collector and Supervisor for one term each, and is now serving his eleventh term as As- sessor. He has been Township Treasurer of schools since January, 1875, and for ten years has filled the office of Justice of the Peace. His long con- tinued service in these positions indicates his fidel- ity to duty and his faithfulness to the trust reposed in him. He cast his first Presidential vote while in the army for Aliraham r>incoln, has since been a stalwart Republican, and has often been delegate to the count}', congressional and State conven- tions. His wife is a member of the Methodist Church and a most estimable lady. Socially, Mr. Sowers belongs to the Grand Army Post of Pi)jer Clity, the Odd Fellows' lodge of Mt. Dempsay, Pa., and is Master of the Masonic lodge of Piper City. He has been Vice-president of the Fair Association since its organization and has been a Director of the Fire Insurance Company of IJrenton and Pella Township since it w.as organized. He is a promi- nent and valued citizen of the community and well deserves representation in this volume. i^ «•* t Hrf" WJLLIAM A. CAMPBELL, a worthy repre- sentative of one of the honored i)ioneer ^, ^ families of Ford County', now engaged in general farming on section 35, Wall Township, was born in Northumberland County, Pa., March 29, 1843. His parents were Obadiah and Margaret L. (Po3'er) Campbell, both of whom were natives of the Keystone State. The father was a carpenter by trade and made his home in the East until 1856, when, with his family, he emigrated to F'ord County, 111., settling in what is now Button Town- ship, where he purchased eighty' acres of unim- proved land and began the development of a farm. He here made his home throughout the re- mainder of his life, being called to his final rest February 17, 1885. His wife had passed away in February, 1865, and his remains were laid by the side of her who had gone before in Paxton Cem- etery. The}' were the parents of nine children: Rob- ert F., who is engaged in farming and carpenter- ing near Kirksville, Adair County, Mo.; Abraham L., an agriculturist; William A., who is the next younger; Francis M., a resident of Chicago; Jos- ephine, who died in 1881; Oscar L., a farmer of Button Township; Henrietta, wife of Daniel Moudy, also an agriculturist of Button Township; Ann L., wife of J. N. Swinford, a retired farmer residing in Paxton, and Lee Britt, who is engaged in agricul- tural pursuits in Button Township. As our subject has so long made his home in the county, he has here a wide acquaintance, and we feel assured that this record of his life will be received with interest by many of our readers. His early life passed uneventfully in attendance at the district schools, where he acquired a fair English education, and in work upon the farm, to which he devoted his energies during the summer months. He remained at home with his father until his marriage, which was celebrated on the 23d of April, 18(57, the lady of his choice being Miss Elizabeth Irvin, daughter of William and Mary (Hock) Irvin. Her father was a native of Virginia and was of Irish descent. By occupation, he was a farmer and died at the age of thirty-nine years. His wife was a native of Ohio, and died when about fifty years of age. Mrs. Campbell was educated in the common schools and has been a valuable helpmate to her husband. Their union has been blessed with two sons and two daughters: Marguerite, the eldest, w.as a student in the Busi- ness College in Terre Haute, Ind., where she took a full course of instruction in stenography. She then went to Chicago, where she worked as a sten- ographer and was also a student in the Polytechnic School of that city. She afterwards entered the Bryant and Stratton Business College and is now at home with her parents. B. Pearl is also at home. Pain aids in the cultivation of the home farm, and Lowelll. completes the family. After their marriage Mr. Campbell rented land in Button Township, and there the young couple began their domestic life. With the exception of PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 315 one year spent in Cli.iniiiaign County, he continued to engage in the operation of that farm until 1874, when, having acquired some capital through indus- try and perseverance, he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land located on section ST), Wall Township, where he now carries on general farm- ing and has ever since resided. He now owns two hundred and fourteen acres of arable land and his beautiful country residence indicates his thrift and enterprise. He is an energetic and suc- cessful business man and all that he possesses has been achieved through his own efforts. He began life with scarcely any capital, but by industry, frugality and care, he has made a handsome com- petency. He takes no very prominent part in public affairs, save in the faithful discharge of his duties of citizenship. He cast his first Presiden- tial vote for Gen. George B. McClellan, and has since been a Democrat, but has never sought or desired political preferment. — J^ i>-^^<^ -s-- W UCAS T. BISHOP has for a third of a il (^ century been a resident of Brenton Town- ,[*'— ^^ ship, and now makes his home on section 17. He has seen the entire growth of the com- munity, for he came here when Ford County was almost an uninhabited tract of wild land. In its upbuilding and growth he has aided, and has ever borne his part in the work of development and progress. To the pioneers all credit is due for what they have done for the county, and promi- nently among them should be mentioned our subject. Ml-. Bishop was born in Broome County, N. Y., November 26, 1829, and is a son of Isaac Bishop. The great-grandfather of our subject served in the Revolutionary War and participated in the battle of Bunker Hill. For many years the family resided in New London, Conn., where Isaac Bishop made his home until al)out thirty' years of age, when he became a resident farmer of Broome County, N. Y. In later years he went to Tioga County, Pa., and afterwards to Illinois. He died at the home of our subject, at the age of eighty-five years, in 1872. He served in the War of 1812, near New London, Conn., guarding the river and the city. In politics, he was first a Democrat and afterward a Republican. His wife died in Broome County, N. Y., in ISGG. Our subject was reared to manhood under the parental roof and at the age of twenty-one liegan learning the cooper's trade, which he followed for about eight 3'ears. He came to the West in 1858, and purchased land in Ford County, III. — a tract of one hundred and sixty acres in Brenton Township. He now has a good home, and wiiat was once wild land has been transformed into rich and fertile fields which 3'ield him a golden tribute. He has planted trees and made other improvements which add both to the value and beauty of the place. In Mr. Bishop we see a self- made man who, though he had to begin life empty-luanded, has overcome all difticulties and obstacles in his path and has worked his way up- ward to success. Mr. Bishop is a friend to education and all in- terests calculated to benefit or improve the com- munity-. He has served as School Trustee since the township w.as organized and not a cent of money h.as been lost during all this time. He may well be proud of such a record. He cast his first Presidential vote with the Know-nothing party in 1856, w.as then a Republican until Grant's second term, when he voted with the Greenback party. He is now a Prohibitionist. He h.as served several terms as Supervisor and is now Assessor of Brenton Township. For a third of a centuiy he h.as made his home in this county and is well and favorably known throughout its borders as a public-spirited and progressive citizen and one of the prominent fanners of the community. He and his wife have been members of the Presby- teri.an Church of Piper City since its organiza- tion. Mr. Bishop was married in New York, in 1850, to Miss H.annah Watson, a native of the Fnipire State, and a daughter of Ira and Mary (McCul- lough) Watson, both of Scotch-Irish descent. Six children Imvc been born of their union, four sons and two daughters: Robert died at the .age of nine years; Minnie, who was born in New York, 316 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. is now the wife of David Hanna, of Nebraska; Watson is a carpenter of Broken Bow, Neb.; Clara B., who graduated from tlie Normal University, of Normal, 111., is now engaged in teaching in Harvard; Clarence died when about a 3ear old, and Edward aids in the operation of the home farm. ^I^DWARD M. LYMAN, who is engaged in fe] general farming on section 17, Lj'nian j l' — ^ Township, is a worthy representative of the honored pioneer family for whicli this township was named. He was born in Soutliampton, Mass., May 23, 1850, and was the youngest of live sons, whose parents were Samuel and Lucetta (Burk) Lyman. The father was born in the Bay State, July 1(3, 181 ], followed the occupation of farming, and emigrated to the West in 18.56. Locating in this county, he purchased two hundred and thirty acres of wild land and his home was the only one between Del Re}' and Oliver Grove. The township first bore the name of Stockton, which was after- ward changed to Brenton, and later was named for JNlr. Lyman. Deer, geese, ducks and all kinds of wild game were plentiful and the experiences of pioneer life were all borne by the Lyman family. The parents were both members of the Congrega- tional Church and instilled into the minds of their children lessons of industry and morality. In politics, Mr. Lyman was a stanch Republican and was a widely-known citizen of this community, held in high regard for his sterling worth and in- tegrity. His wife died in Onarga, Septembei- 2.5, 1875, and he passed away on Christmas Day of 1877. They were laid to rest side by side in Rob- erts Cemetery, where a beautiful monument has I een erected sacred to their niemor}-. Three sons of this worth j' couple are still living. The eldest, Samuel B., was born in Massachusetts, was reared to agricultural p\irsuits and acquired a common-school education. During the late war, he donned the blue and served throughout the en- tire struggle. At Harper's Ferry, he was taken prisoner but was afterward exchanged. Later, he enlisted in an Illinois regiment and was given a place on the detective force in securing "bounty- jumpers." When the war was over, he received his discharge and returned home. He has lieen twice married. He first married Samantha Harris, who died in 1873, leaving four children, after which he was joined in wedlock to Mrs. Maggie Rams.ay. They now reside in Rolfe, Iowa, where Mr. Lyman is living retired. He was one of Ford County's honored citizens for a number of years and served as Sheriff from 1875 until 1882, proving one of the most efficient officers that the county has ever known. George P., who for some time was a lead- ing merchant of Roberts, 111., resides in Pasadena, Cal., where he is engaged in the milling business. He married Helen Searls. Our subject is the third son. He spent the first six years of his life in his native State, then came with his parents to Illinois. His education was acquired in the Grand Prairie Seminary in Onarga and he is a well-informed man. At the age of twenty-four, he started out in life for him- self with no capital, but is now a well-to-do farmer of Lyman Township. On the 26tii of November, 1874, Mr. Lyman was imited in marriage to Miss Harriet Samantha Hard- ing, a native of Illinois. She was educated in the common schools and for six terms was a successful teacher in Tazewell County. Her mother is still living and resides with Mrs. Lyman. She was born in May, 1824, and is now about sixtj'-eight 3-ears of age. Our subject and his wife have one son, Eugene H.. who is attending school in Roberts. The parents are both devout members of the Con- gregational Church of Roberts, to which Mrs. Harding also belongs, and they have been .active workers for its interest and upbuilding. Mr. Lyman is one of the Deacons of the church, also a member of the Board of Trustees and ,i worker in the Sunday-school. His wife is a member of the Christian Endeavor Society anwa; Hannah; .John, of this sketch; Margaret, Amanda and Sarah. John Van Nostin, whose name heads this record, has S|ient almost his entire life in lUinoi' his par- ents locating in McLean County when he ,j a lad of only four summers. He aided in the lors of the farm during the summer montlis ar . in tiie winter season, when his services were not needed at home, attended the district schools of tl > neigii- borhood, where he acquired a limited education. He remained under the parental roof iiiilil his fa- ther's death and tiieii began working as a farm hand by the mouth and took care of his widowed mother. On the ytli C)f .lanuary, 1861,in McLean County, Mr. Van Nostin, was united in the holy bonds of matrimony to Miss Martha S. Pliillips, a native of Kentucky, born in Nicholsville in 1844. Her par- ents, Beauford and Lucy (Settles) Phillips, were natives of Kentucky. For thirty-nine years, Mr. A'an Nostin engaged in farming in McLean County and then, accompanied by his wife, removed to this count}' in January, 1875. Soon afterward, he purchased the farm upon which he now resides, consisting of eighty acres of arable land, under a good stiite of cultivation and well improved. In connection with general farming, he engages in stock-raising, making a specialty of thoroughbred horses. In politics, he is a Democrat liut has never sought or desired puljlic oHice, preferring to de- vote his entire attention to Ins business. His wife is a member of the Protestant Methodist Cliurcli. They are worthy citizens of this community and are held in high regard by their many friends. ■lit/ Jilf Ui. c--^riS '^^^i^^^i^/HJ 0-t*K, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 325 ^1 BEL C. THOMPSON, now deceased, was WLm one of the prominent and influential bus- iness men of Paxton, and his name is in- separably connected witii the upbuilding and history of the city. lie was born in Luzerne County, Pa., August 6, 1818, and was a son of John and Mary (Gardner) Thompson. His father, also a native of the Keystone State, was descended from Scotch-Irish ancestors, and was a man of character and worth. The family of John and Mary Thom[)Son consisted of eight children: Fan- nie is the wife of Benjamin Sailor, a merchant of Franklin, Pa.; Sallie is the widow of George Swal- low, a capitalist of Abington, Pa.; Jesse, a mer- chant of Carboudale, Pa.; James, a retired farmer of the same place; Enoch, a farmer of Shenandoah, Iowa, and Rebecca, wife of Thomas Whait, of Wav- er ly, Pa. Abel C. Thompson, whose n.ame heads this article, was reared to manhood upon his father's farm, receiving such education as the district schools of those days afforded. At the age of eighteen, he began the battle of life for himself by working on the farm at 112 per mouth. Not sat- isfied with his educational attainments, he invested his careful!}' husbanded earnings in a course of higher studies in the schools of Hartford, Pa. Having accumulated !)>' industrj' and economy a small capital, he opened a general store in Exe- ter, Pa., which he r.an successfully some two or three years. Removing to Ransom, in the same State, he again embarked in mercantile pursuits, continuing with marked success for many years. In 1852, he disposed of his interests in Ransom, and moved to Pittstown, Pa., where he w.as also engaged in trade for some time, when he sold his store and turned his attention to journalism, be- coming editor and proprietor of the Fillstuwn. Ga- zelle. A man of varied ability, he proved himself capable in this field, as well as in business affairs. Other interests claimed his attention, for he had ownership in extensive coal fields. But nowhere did his excellencies of character more clearly man- ifest themselves than in the home circle. To him home was the haven of rest from annoyances that must come to every business man. On the 20th of October, 1845, Mr. Thompson 14 married Miss Catherine, daughter of Solomon and Elizabeth (Searle) Brown. Mrs. Thompson is one of seven children, as follows: Daniel is a farmer of Exeter, Pa.; Catherine; Elizabeth and ]>awrence, deceased; Rasselas; Clara, wife of F. A. Thompson, of Paxton; Myron, a resident of Exeter. I\Ir. and !\Irs. Thomiison became the parents of two children. Lawrence died in infancy. Their only surviving child, Marian, was born October 12, 1846, received her education in Miss Anabel's College, of Philadelphia, Pa., and on the 22d of September, 1868, became the wife of I. J. Sutton, manager of the Roller IMills of Paxton. They have one child, Stanley T., the eflicient book-keeper for the Ford County Bank. Failing health caused Mr. Thompson to seek a home in the AVest. It was his intention to go to Min- neapolis, Minn., but on the way he stopped to visit relatives at Paxtou. His healtli improved so rapidly that he determined to locate in Paxton. The fall of the same year, 1808, he returned to the East, disposed of his interests and moved his family to their western home. Having purchased an inter- est in the Ford County Bank, he was made its President, which position he held continuously to the date of his deatii. He was public-spirited and liberal toward all worthy enterprises, and whatever he took hold of he pushed with his char- acteristic energy and determination. Through his personal efforts the old gristmill of Paxton was converted into one of the best roller mills of East- ern Illinois. Ill tlie truest sense, Mr. Thompson was a self- made man; beginning as a wage-earner, he arose by persistent and well-directed effort to a position of infiuence and wealth, his intercourse with his fel- low men ever being m.arked by honesty and jus- tice. In political affairs, ISIr. Thompson always took an active part, working for the triumph of the Republican principles. In Pennsylvania he served as Justice of the Peace and after coming to Paxton held the office of Mayor of the city two terms. He w.as not a man that sought places of public trust, but when he once accepted such trust, he performed his part with conscientious fidelitj'. A record of the life of Mr. Thompson would 326 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. lack in the most essential element were it not to speak of his religious faith and works. In early life he was converted, and became a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he was ever a zealous and cheerful worker. If a superin- tendent of the Sunda3--school was needed, he was capable and willing; when a class-leader was wanted Mr. Thompson was available; was financial support necessary, he could always be relied upon to do his share. In a word, he was a pillar of the church. Is it any wonder that family, friends, and commun- ity should mourn the loss of one so helpful in all that tends to make life brighter and mankind bet- ter.? On the 24th of September, 1890, while at the mill, Mr. Thom})son met with an accident that re- sulted in his death six days later. In Glenn Cemetery, at Paxton, his remains wei'e laid to rest, but he will long be remembered as one of nature's noblemen and one of God's faithful servants. ■jflOHN C. KEN WARD has been identified I with the history of Ford County since 1869. He now resides in Roberts, and is half _ owner and foreman in the tile factory. He was born in Sussex, England, October 2, 1832. His parents, John and Mercy (Standing) Ken- ward, never left their native land. The father died at the age of eighty-six years, and his wife passed away at the age of fifty-five. Both were mem- bers of the Baptist Church. They had a family of three sons and two daughters: Mercy E., wife of Mr. Johnson, grocer and draper of Stenning, Sus- sex Count}', England; John, of this sketch; Sam- uel S., who was one of the boys in blue of the late war, and died in the service in 1863; George, a commission merchant, who is married, and lives in Spokane Falls, Wash.; and Sarah J., wife of John Stacey, a merchant of East Grinstead, England. Our subject attended school until thirteen years of age, when he began serving an apprenticeship to the miller's trade, working in that capacity un- til seventeen years of age. By an uncle, he was advised to come to America, and, acting upon his advice, in May, 1850, sailed from Liverpool on the "John McKinzie," and, after seven weeks, landed in New York with only $25 in his pocket. He had formed the acquaintance of a young man on board, and together thej' went to Buffalo. There they fell in with a man who robbed Mr. Ken ward's friend of ^200, and the poor boys found themselves with only three sovereigns, which belonged to our sul)ject. At Sandusky, Mr. Kenward was offered §2.50 for a musket which he carried, and he gladly exchanged it for the money. The young men started to walk to Per- rysburg, Ohio, where the friend secured work as a mechanic, and our subject found employment in a mill. A short tune afterward, however, he left that place, and at length went to Marshall, Mich., where he worked until the si)ring of 1851 in a mill, and then returned to Detroit. In May, of that .year, he landed on Rock Island, in AYisconsin, and there engaged in fishing through the summer, but his employer failed to pay him for his ser- vices. The following winter he spent in Wau- kegan, where he did chores for his board, and in the spring went to Washington Island, Wis. While on that island, in November, 1852, Mr. Kenward married Miss Nanc}' Westbrook, daugh- ter of Joel and Lucinda (Kilbourn) AVestbrook. Unto them have been born ten children, seven sons and three daughters, eight of whom are j'et living: Joel, who was educated at Normal Union and successfully engaged in teaching for a num- ber of years, is now married, and is engaged in the jewelry business in Roberts; John, who was edu- cated in the AVesle^'an University, resides in Los Angeles, Cal.; Ira, who was graduated from the Weslej'an University in 1888, and for a time en- gaged in teaching, is now married and practices law in Protho, Utah; Samuel is married and re- sides on the old homestead; Aaron is an agricul- turist of AVall Township; Patience, .lanieand AVill- ard, at home. In 1869, Mr. Kenward came with his family to AVall Township. For eighteen years he had en- gaged in fishing on Washington Island, and now turned his attention to farming. He purchased onediundred and sixty acres of raw land, at $10 per acre, and transformed the uncultivated tract PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 327 into rich and fertile fields. The boundaries of his farm he also extended, until he now owns three hundred and tn-enty acres of highly improved land. In 188,5, he came to Roberts, and ha.3 since Iwen foreman of the tile factor.)', in which he owns a lialf interest. It has a eapacitj' of about six hundred thousand tile annually and the sales of brick and tile amount to from *8,0()0 to * 10,000. A poor friendless boy, he started out for himself in America and for iiis success in life deserves great credit as he has worked his way uitward to a position of affluence and also to a higli position in the esteem of his fellow-townsmen. Himself and wife are members of the Metliodist Cliurch and the lady is a member of the Foreign Missionary So- ciety. Tliey have given freelj' of their means for the erection of churches and to all benevolent and charitable considerations. Mr. Kenward cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. Fremont, and since the organization of the Republican p.arty has been one of its stanch advocates. He has served as Assessor of Wall Township for about six years, was Collector, School Director and is School Trustee of Lyman Township at the present time. He was also liglit-house keeper on Pilot Island, Wis., for three years. While only twenty- two years of age, he served as .Justice of the Peace, and laugliingly tells of how he was called upon to marry a couple when his embarrassment was as great as that of the contracting parties. In the summer of 1882, Mr. Kenward paid a visit to his old home in England, wliere he spent four months. f'«j'*j**j»»j*F W;ILLIAM HURST is numbered among the early settlers of Ford County, where he has made his home for the past thirty- four j'ears. He is a native of Lancashire, Eng- land, born on the lOtli of January, 1838, and is the ninth in order of birth in a family often children, three sons and seven daugliters. The parents were Joseph and Maiy (Bowers) Hurst. The father was a native of Lancashire, was a well-educated gentleman and was emploj'ed as book-keeper in a cotton manufactory. About 1847, accompanied by his wife and family, he determined to emigrate to America, and crossed the Atlantic from Liver- pool to Philadelphia. He made a location at Gloucester, N. J., and there remained until his death, which occurred June 23, 1849. His remains were interred in AVoodbury, N. J. His wife came to the West and died July 26, 187.5. She was laid away in Peach Orchard Cemetery, where a beauti- ful stone marks her last resting iJace. Both were members of the Society of Friends. The children of the family areBettie, a resident of Lj'man Township; Alice, wife of James Roberts, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work; Ellen, who is living on section 30, in Lyman Township; Ann, wife of Joseph Tucker, a railroad employe, residing in Camden County, N. J.; Mary, wife of Jlatthew Biichenough, a farmer of Iro- quois County; Joseph, a prominent agriculturist of Lyman Township, whose sketch is given in this vol- ume; William, our subject; and Hannah, who is living on section 30, L^-man Township. William Hurst was a lad of nine years when with his parents he came to America. He worked for his mother upon the farm between the ages of nineteen and twenty-four years and then began life for himself, his property consisting solely of a team. As a companion and helpmate on life's journey, he chose Miss Mary Jane Roberts, daugh- ter of James Roberts. Their union was celebrated February 13, 1867, and has been blessed with a family of five children, but the only son, Walter, died at the age of fifteen years. Lizzie is now the wife of David Kenned}^ an agriculturist of Rob- erts, and unto them have been born a son and daughter. Mary is attending school and has also received instructions in instrumental music. Cynthia is also in school, and Elsie is the baby of the household. Mrs. Hurst, who is a native of Sussex, England, is a well-educated lady and en- gaged in teaching prior to her marriage. Mr. Hurst exercises his right of franchise in support of the Republican party, with which he has been identified since casting his first Presi- dential vote for Abraham Lincoln. For nine years, he has served as School Director and the cause of education has found in liim a waim friend, He 328 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD, and his wife are members of the Congregational Cliiircli, are benevolent and worthy people, and the poor and needy are never turned from the door empty-handed. Mr. Hurst is now living re- tired. For man^^ years he followed farming and was very successful, so that now he can lay aside all business cares. He first became owner of one hundred acres of raw land, but transformed it into rich and fertile fields, and extended tlie bounda- ries of his farm until he now has a richly culti- vated tract of one hundred and eighty acres. His sterling worth well entitles him to representation in this volume. -^1 ^+^ (^_ "^ \t7 EVI MILLER, an enterprising farmer and I (j^ one of the prominent early settlers of this jlL^^ county, now resides on section 24, Wall Township. He is a native of the Keystone State, born in Berks County, April 9, 1831, and is a son of Frederick Miller, also a native of Pennsylvania and of German descent, his ancestors having come from that country in an earl_v day and set- tled in Mar3dand. Frederick Miller removed to Ohio in 1833, settling in ISIontgomery County, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits until his death, which occurred in 1842. His first wife was in her maideniiood Miss Rieagle, and by her marriage became the mother of the following chil- dren: Isaac and Jonathan, both now deceased; Alvina, a resident of Darke Count}*, Ohio; and Harriet, who died near Salem, Oliio. Mr. Miller was again married in Pennsylvania to Catherine Whitman. She passed away in that State, leaving two children to mourn her loss, our subject and Jeremiah, who resides near Sidney, Ohio, where he carries on farming and is one of the County Com- missioners of Shelby County. The father of this family was a United Brethren in religious belief, and in politics was a Jackson Democrat and a stanch supporter of his party. Levi Miller was taken by his parents to Ohio when but eighteen months old and was there reared. His father died when he was eleven years of age, and he was then bound out for six years. His educational privileges were limited, he only at- tending school three or four months in a year. At the age of seventeen, lie began learning the carpenter's trade, at which he worked for three years. After liis marriage, he removed to Darke County, (Jhio, making his home near Greenville, where he followed his trade. He then came to Illinois and settled in La Salle County, where he engaged in the same occupation for ten years, when, in 1864, he came to Ford County, purchas- ing his present farm. At that time the country was so thinly settled that he could get on his horse and ride straight to the court-house in Pax- ton witliout turning either to the right or the left. His farm consisted of eighty acres of wild prairie land, and on the whole amount there was not a single tree. All this is now greatly changed. On his fine farm is a comfortable and commodious resi- dence, surrounded l\y a grove of beautiful trees. This has all been accomplished by industrious and enterprising efforts of our subject, who is one of the successful farmers of Ford County. He has now one tree on his place which is two feet in diameter and over sixty feet high, which he set out, it being a slip that he cut off with his plow while at work. On the 29th of July, 18.52, in Preble County, Ohio, Mr. Miller was united in marriage to Miss Maria Werts, a native of that county. The union of our subject and his estimable wife has been blessed by the birth of nine children, namely: Mary, wife of James Harris, of Loda, 111.; Jere- miah makes his home in Cliicago; Viola is a resi- dent of Big Bend, Kan.; Hamer and Theresa, now deceased; Lee lives in Loda; Charles is in Chicago; and Lucretia and Arthur make their home with their parents. All of the children have had com- mon educational advantages and have had the benefit of a good district school. Mrs. Miller is a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and her children attend Victor Church. Mr. Miller takes an active part in public affairs, .and helped to organize Wall Township and was its first Commissioner. He was Clerk of the Board of Commissioners some time and made out the first road tax. He has held four different offices at the same time, thus showing the high regard in (7^/^'^ f i • \ I I ( I ^jp5^ AMUEL DAY. Among tlie early settlers ^!^^ of the territory now comprising Ford Ifl/J)}) County, was he whose name heads this sketch, and whose family has been promi- nently identified with the business interests and development of the county since its organization. Mr. Da}^ was born in Kenton County, Ky., on the 16th of April, 179i), while that region was still a wilderness. I lis father was the Kev. John Day, a native of Maryland and a jiioneer of Kentuck}-, when the red men held almost undisputed sway in that region. In 1803, he removed with his family to Preble County, Ohio, where, by the help of his sons, he cleared and improved a farm in that heav- ily timbered region, which was his home for the remainder of his daj-s. His wife died in middle life and was buried in Preble County. The hus- band survived till old age, remaining single. He was a minister of what is now known as the Chris- tian Church, and was ever faithful in the discharge of his duties. His death occurred in Shelby Connt3', Ind., while on a visit to his children, and he was there buried. Samuel Day was reared on his father's farm and in his youth learned the carpenter's trade, although he made agricultural pursuits the iirincipal occu- pation of his life. On the 8th of March, 1821, he was joined in wedlock to Miss Peggy Purviance, a daughter of the Hon. David Purviance, and a native of Kentucky. Her father was a prominent man of that State and distinguished himself by his open hostility to slavery, lieing an original Aboli- tionist. In earl}' life he had settled in Kentucky, where he was elected to the State Senate, and from his peculiar and then unpopular views on the all- exciting subject of slavery, he became renowned for the bold defense of his opinions and for tlie hostility he encountered and successfully com- batted. In 1807, he removed to Preble County, Ohio, where he passed the latter years of his life. Mr. and Mrs. Day had a family of nine children, all born in Preble County, of whom only four are now living: Eliza, the eldest, died in her native State at the age of seventeen; John P. married Miss Melinda Swisher, and is a well-known pioneer business man of Paxton, 111.; Mary A., the next j'ounger, died at the age of twelve years; Sophia became the wife of Alonzo Loutzenhiser and died in Champaign County, III., November 11, 1854. Samuel L. wedded Susanna Swisher, who died in April, 1858, and in 1860, he married his present wife, wlio was Miss Jennie Lj'cm; he is also a pioneer business man of Paxton and is represented elsewhere in this work. Nicholas B., the third son, married Barbara Stoner and is one of the oldest merchants of Paxton; the next in order is a daughter who died in infancy; Cordelia is now the wife of James Hock, of Paxton; and the youngest of the family, a son, died while a babe. Mr. Day continued his residence in Ohio until August, 1851, when with his family he removed to Miami Countj', Ind., and settled on a farm near Peru. In November, 1853, accompanied b}- his wife and children, he emigrated to Illinois, trav- eling with teams and driving the stock. They lo- cated near Danville, where, after sjiending a year, Mr. Day and his sons, Samuel and Nicholas B., came to what is now Ford County, then a part of Vermilion. Mr. D.ay, Sr., ])urchased a partly im- proved faim of one hundred and twenty acres near Prairie City, now Paxton, where he contin- ued to reside until his death, which occurred in February, 1858. He was in feeble health when he came to Illinois and died soon after coming here, so that he was not actively identified with the affairs of the county. Politically, he was a Whig from early manhood until tiie disruption of that part}', after which he was a Kepublican and alwaj'S anti-slavery. He filled the position of Assessor and other minor ollices in Ford County. He and ills wife were consistent members of tlie Christian Church in former years. Mrs. Day survived her husband many years and later in life, not having an organized society of PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 333 her own church at Paxton, she joined the church of the United Brethren of that place. Her death occurred on the 9th of August, 1890, in her nine- t^'-third jear. She was possessed of a remarkably strong constitution and superior mental force and preserved her faculties almost unimpaired up to the day of her death. She was devoted to her family and reared her children to habits of in- dustry and frugality, and inculcated the lessons of sound moralitj' and Christian faith that resulted in their becoming worthy and respected members of society. She was a noble woman and her mem- ory is held in great veneration by her children and surviving friends of the pioneer days of Ford CountJ^ WAN PETERSON, the leading florist of Ford County and the only one of Gibson City, established business at that place in 1882. Mr. Peterson is a native of Sweden and was born in Kristianstad, December 29. 1860. His parents' Christi.-in names were Jens and Mary, respectively, and they were also natives of the same country. The subject of this sketch was educated in his native land and served a regular apprenticeship to the trade of a florist. In 1880, when not quite twenty years of age, he emigrated from Sweden to America, coming direct to (iibson City. For two 3'^ears he worked at whatever he could lind to do, by which he could eain an honest dollar, and in the meantime learned the English Language. In the spring of 1882, having accumulated a very small capital whicli he had saved from his earnings, he began raising flowers in a small way, under glass. His business prospered and he invested the profits in improvements, until he now h.as an extensive establishment with Ave lots, ."iOxlGO feet e.ach, situated in the eastern part of the city. He has 5,500 square feet of glass, and all the facilities for a first-class greenhouse. His princii)al liusiness is in cut flowers and his specialties are carnations and violets, while he has a fine collection cf roses and otlier plants. His principal markets are in Chicago and St. Louis. He has a commission mer- chant in both cities who handle his goods. In addition to the business he does in Chicago and St. Louis, he has quite an important trade at home and in neighboring Illinois cities. His annual trade is large. Supplying floral decorations for weddings and funerals constitutes an important part of his business, and his good taste in such matters is conceded by all. Mr. Peterson was united in marriage, on the 16th of May, 1886, to Miss Sarah Moline, a daugh- ter of Swan and Permelia Moline. Mrs. Peterson was born in Southern Sweden, and emigrated to America with her parents when six years of age. Three children were born to our subject and his wife, one of whom is now deceased, Freddie, the only son, who died at the age of two and a half years. The living are Freda Maria and Anna p]lizabeth. In politics, Mr. Petersf)n is a Republican, casting his vote in support of that party. He and his wife are consistent members of the Swedish Evan- gelical Lutheran Church, and are highly respected in this community. He is an upright and honest citizen and is greatly esteemed for his sterling worth. ILLIAM BAKER is a prominent joung ^ I^ILLJAM 15AKEU is a promine \/sJ/' f'^''i"'''' <^'f Wall Township, who has spent y^^ alnu)st his entire life in Ford County. He now resides on section 2, where he manages a large estate. His father, Henry Baker, was born in Han- over, German3-, on the 19th of September, 1834, and his people for some generations were fanning folks. He grew to manhood upon a farm and ac- quired his education in the i)ublic .schools. When a boy, he was put to work herding sheep, but as he much disliked that work, he determined to seek a home in America, and at the age of sixteen left his native land. After (piite a while spent upon the Atlantic, he landed in New York, in 1850, and from thence made his way Westward to La Salle County, III., where he worked as a farm hand by the month for some time. He afterwards 334 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. purcliased land and engaged in agricultural pur- suits for himself. He had owned several farms in La Salle County prior to 1871, when he carac to Ford County, settling upon the farm which is now the home of our subject. He there resided until 1889, when he removed to Streator, 111., where he is now engaged in mercliandising. In La Salle County, in 1858, Henry Baker mar- ried Miss Louisa Eberhart, a native of New York. Her father was a Frenchman by birth and her mother was born near Straslnirg, (iermany. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Baker were born six children who are yet living, and they have also lost one. Henry is now a merchant of Streator, 111.; William is the second in order of birth ; Edward is now a student in the V.alparaiso Normal School of Indiana, and makes his home witli his parents; John is now en- gaged in clerking in Chicago; Benjamin and Caro- line are at home. Mr. 15aker came to this country witli no capital, but accumulated a fine property. He now owns one and three-quarter sections of land, besides business and residence property in Streator. In politics, he is a Republican and is a member of the Evangelical Association, to which his family also belongs. Our subject was born in La Salle County, on the 8th of September, 1864, and in the usual manner of farmer lads spent the d.ays of his boyhood and youth. He attended the public schools, and the education which he there acquired was supple- mented by a six months' course in the High School in Streator and also six niontiis' study in Naper- ville. When six years old, he came to Ford County, where he has resided almost continuously since. When his father left the farm in 1889, Mr. Baker took charge of it and is now engaged in gen- eral farming and stock-raisuig. He is a successful young business man, wide-awake and enterprising, and is well and favor.alily known in this commun- ity. On the 14th of June, 1888, Mr. Baker wedded Miss Mary Rienenschneider, a native of Will County, 111., and a daughter of August and Bar- bara (Klingert) Rienenschneider, who reside in Lyman Township, that county. Their union has been blessed with one son, Samuel Walter, who was born on the 6th of July, 1889. The parents are both members of the Evangelical Church, of which Mr. Baker is a Trustee. He also serves as Superintendent of the Sundaj'-school. He cast his first Presidenti.al vote for Gen. Harrison, in 1888. He has served as School Director for three j'ears, but has never been an office-seeker. His fellow- townsmen recognize in him an honorable and up- right young man, and he is regarded as one of the prominent and representative farmers of the com- munity. •'^^S^' ■': =r-~|^- , ■«^=^ S)^?^ ellARLES C. PEARCE, as a breeder of standard-lired horses and a stock-raiser, is well known to tlie people of Ford County. He comes from Kentucky, a State noted for its fine horses. He was born in Flemingsburg, Fleming County, April 5, 1866. His father, Edwin E. Pearce, was born on the 3d of August, 1822, in the same county where he has p.assed his entire life. His career has been a remaikable one. Beginning his business life as a clerk in a store at $50 per year, he has become a man of infiuenceand wealth, much of his time being devoted to the raising of standard-bred horses. In an early day, Mr. Pearce, Sr., purchased lands in different counties in Illinois at a nominal sum, which have since become very valuable through the rise in the price of land and the improvements he has made thereon. Besides owning several farms in Kentucky, he is president of the banking house of Pearce, Fant & Co. of Flemingsburg. Notwithstanding he owned a large number of slaves, he was an advoc.ite of emanci- pation, and when the war broke out gave his sup- port to the Union cause. On the 10th of Novem- ber, 1857, Mr. Pearce was united in marriage to Miss Anna J. Clarke, a native of Mason County, Ky., born April 4, 1838, and called to her final rest on the 4th of October, 1878. Unto this worthy couple were born five children, four of whom are now living. Charles C. Pearce, the subject of this sketch,who is the third child of the family, spent his early life on the farm. In the private schools of his native county, he began his education, which was com- 'J^?^./? 2j^- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPinCAL RECORD. 337 pleted at Lexington University. Having remained on the farm until 1881, he entered the liank of Pearce, Fant & Co., as book-keeper, remaining in that position for tliree years, and since 188G he has been a member of the Board of Directors of that institution. In August, 1887, Mr. Pearce came to Gibson City and began farming and stock-raising on a section of land which his father had purchased many years before. The following year our sulijcet returned to Ken- tucky and there, October 3, 1888, near Tallesboro, married Miss Hattie M., daughter of Madison M. and Mary E. (Means) Walker. Mr. Walker still lives, his wife having died some years ago. ]>oth were born in Kentucky and their only surviving child is INIrs. Pearce. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Pearce was born a son, Edwin M., who lived to be nearly two years old, when he was called home. The mother is a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church, in the interests of which she is an active worker. In political sentiment,Mr. Pearce is a Republican, and is a stanch supporter of that party, as is also his fatiier. He is now devoting himself chielly to the raising of standard-bred horses, of which he has eleven at the present time on his farm, being .some of the flnesthorses of the county. In early boy- hood, he learned to handle horses and has acquired more than a local reputation as a good horseman. He is enterprising and progressive and is numbered among the worthy citizens of Ford County. .^ M ^— 'ff|OIIN PURYIANCE DAY, a pioneer business man of Paxton, Ford County, who located ^^ here in March, 1857, and for the past thirty- (^^ three years has been prominently identified with its real-estate and other business interests, was born in Preble Count}', Ohio, on the 8th of September, 1824. He is a son of Samuel and Peggy (Purviance) Day, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work, and was reared on his father's farm in the woods of Preble County, Ohio. He enjoyed the limited educational advan- tages of the public schools of those da3's in that i-egion, and was early inured to hard labor, clearing the heavy timber and fitting the land for cultiva- tion Having attained to man's estate, Mr. Day was united in marriage, in IMiami County, Ind., on the 25th of September, 1845, to Miss Malinda Swisher, daughter of George and Elizabeth (Bassett) Swi- sher. The lady was born in Ripley, Ind., and was reared in Preble Count_v, where she was a neigh- bor and associate of her husband in childhood. Soon after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Day made their home on a farm in a heavily timbered section of Miami County, Ind. For seven years, Mr. Day swung the ax and tilled the soil, enjojing life keenly in the possession of the substantials of life, where all were on a common footing, never long- ing for or missing the luxuries of more modern civilization. In the fall of 1853, he and his family, with teams and a portion of their household effects, joined his father and brothers in their emigration to Eastern Illinois, and in November reached a point near Danville, where they located %ind bought land. John P. Day and family remained on their farm at that place until March, 1857, when they removed to Paxton, in what is now Ford County. He be- came interested in merchandising at that point and later sold his farm near Danville and concen- trated his business at Paxton. In .Tune, 1859, Ford Count}' was organized and at the first election of the county officers, which occurred the follow- ing fall, Mr. Day was elected County Treasurer. He was re-elected at the two succeeding elections and subsequently filled an unexpired term on the death of the Treasurer, serving from March 22, 1866, to November, 1867, making his entire service in that office amount to nearly eight years. In politics, he was a AVhig in early life and joined the Republican party at its organization in Illinois in 1854. AVhile serving as County Treasurer, he be- came very familiar with the land of Ford Count}', and .acted as agent for many non-residents in the settlement of taxes and in buying and selling real estate on commission. On retiring from office, he naturally turned his attention to the real-estate business, which he has carried on successfully ever since. His official and land business did not, how- 338 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. ever, occupy his time exclusively, as he has been interested three different times with his brotliers in merchandising, and at this writing is a partner of his brother, N. B. Da3', in one of the largest dr^^- goods and general stores in Paxton. He and his brother, Samuel L., were associated in merchandis- ing, farming, real estate and general trading. Mr. Day handled live stoclv extensively, buying, feed- ing and shipping. Thej' began merchandising in Paxton, in March, 18.58, having the second general store in tliis place. In 18G0, ,Tohn P. Day cm- barked in the land business, since which time lie has bought and sold, either as principal or agent, many thousand of acres of land in Illinois and other Western States. At this writing, he is the senior member of the real-estate and loan agency firm of Day Brotliers, of Paxton. This firm does an extensive business, not only in Illinois, but in Kansas, Iowa and Missouri lands, and in city property. Three children were born to Mr. and IMis. Daj': Cordelia E., tlie eldest, now tlie wife of George Wright, of Chicago, and the muther of three chil- dren, two sons and a daughter. Margaret died at the age of six years, and Alice M. married Tlieodore M. King, a leading druggist of Paxton; they have one son, Claude. The parents and tlieir daughters are members of the Congregational Church. Mr. Day was the first President of the town of Paxton, to whicli office he waselected April 15,1861, on the incorporation of the town or village. He was also a member of the first Grand .lury of F^ord County, in November, 1859, as well as the first County Treasurer to serve a full term. His life has been an active and useful one, and his business relations have been sucli .as to give liim an extended acquaintance throughout Ford and adjacent coun- ties, where his opinion and good judgment, espec- ially on the suliject of land values, are generally accepted as authority. It is gener.all3' conceded that no man has liad a wider experience or pos- sesses more reliable information in that direc- tion than Mr. Day. In all his intercourse with his fellow-citizens and the world in general, he has alwa3's been found upright and reliable. While conservative and prudent in all his business trans- actions, yet he is enterprising and ready to ven- ture where his good judgment sanctions invest- ment and he seldom makes mistakes. Perhaps that is one reason why he has been so successful in business and is so generally respected. It is now forty-six years since Mr. Day began business on his own account and in all that time he has never sued or been sued in a court of justice, a record an3' man might be proud of. ^ /^^S\ IIARLES O. HAYES, a prominent and rep- (I ^-^^ resentative citizen of Roberts and the pop- ^^^J ular host of the Glencoe House, is a native of Clinton Count3-, N. Y. He was born June II, 1834, and was the eighth in a family of seven sons and three daughters, born unto Asa and Laura (Larkin) Ilaycs. The father was born in the Green JMoiiiitaiii State, where he remained until eleven years of age, and then removed to New York, where he spent the greater part of his life and engaged in Ijusiness as a lumberman. In his childhood da\s, when the Revolutionaiy War was in i)rogross, he fre(iueiitly carried dis[)atches from Plattsburg to Ogdensburg, N. Y., through the un- broken forests. In politics, he was a .lefferson Democrat. lie emigrated to McLean County, 111., in 1863, and, purchasing f)roperty, there made his home until his death. His wife died at the age of fifty and her remains were interred by the side of her two daughters in the cemeteiy of Beekman- town, N. Y., while Mr. Ha3'es was laid to rest in Livingston County, 111. They were highly re- si)ected people and their lives were worthy of the warm regard in which they were held. Five children of their family are 3'et living: Hiram, who served as Ca|i1ain in the late war, is now married and lives a retired life in Whitewater, Wis.; Mary is the wife of the Rev. S. P. Alford, a Methodist niinister; Charles is the next younger; .John, who wore the blue during the late war, is mar- ried and lives a retired life near Plattsburg, N. Y.; and .loel P.. who was (^uarterni.aster of his company during the late war, is engaged in farming near Neosha P'alls, Kan. The following are now de- PORTRAIT AND BlOGRAPinCAL RECORD. 339 ceased: Lo^-al. who was horn in New York, fol- lowed farming and died in Vermont, wliere his wife and famil3' reside; Christiana became the wife of L. 8. Robinson, a farmer of New York, and died at about the age of thirty-live jears; Harriet, who became the wife of Levi Stafford, a mechanic, died in New York, and since her deatii her family hus emigrated to JMichigan; P^noch and Lorin died at about twelve and fifteen years of age, respectively. Our subject acquired his education in the com- mon schools and is a self-made man who had to begin life for himself empty-handed. In f.act, he borrowed $5 with which to come to the West. On attaining his majoritv, he emigrated to Illinois, and in 18.56. began working as a farm hand in Kendall County. He spent the year 18.58 in AVal- worth County, Wis., hut with tlie exception of that time has since made his home in Illinois. On the .5th of ()ctol)er, 18.5',), he married Lucenia R., daughter of Wesley .and Cornelia (Randall) Alford. Her father was a native of New York and emi- grated to this State in 185.5, locating in Kendall County, where our subject and his wife were mar- ried. She w.as born October 30, 1842, and w.as one of live sons and four daughters. Her birth was followed by that of Hannah, who became the wife of William Skinner, a farmer, now deceased, who resides in Fiirest, 111.; Setli, of Cropse^y, 111.; Emma, wife of Sherman .lohnson, a farmer of Livingston County, III.; Lorenzo, a merchant of Cropsey; fleorge, who makes his home in the same place; and Allen, who is employed as a .salesman b_y his brother Lorenzo. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hayes have been born four daughters: Ada, who was educated in Saybrook, .and passed the teachers' examination, possesses considerable musical talent and was instructed in that art by Prof. Hugh Kilso, now of t,he Conser- vatory of Music in the Auditorium of Chicago. She became the wife of Orville CUieney, who was educated at Wesle3"an College, and is a well-known farmer of INIcLe.an Count}\ He cast his first vote for Gen. Grant and is a stalwart Republican. Julia is the wife of Andrew .1. O'llarra, a con- tractor and builder, of Englewood; Nellie, who was educated in Saybrook, is the wife of N. F. Davis, a contractor and builder, of Gano, III., and a iirominent member of the Patriotic Order of Sons of America. Ilattie is the wife of Roy M.ah.aflfey, who is now engaged in merch.andizing in Englewood, III. Mr. Hayes proudly cast his first Presidential vote for .John C. Fremont and has since been a stalwart Republican. He was Constable of McLean County for four consecutive years but has never been an olhce-seeker. Himself and wife are faithful mem- bers of the Methodist Church and contributed liberally to the erection of the beautiful church edifice. He is one of the Trustees and was also .Steward. His wife was President of the Ladies' Aid Societ}', and is a member of the F'oreign Mis- sionary Society, and botli have been identified with the .Sunday-school work. Glencoe House is one of the leading hotels in this part of the county and has found favor with the traveling public. Everything is kept in first- class order which insures it a liberal jiatronage. Besides this, Mr. Hayes owns other valuable prop- erty' in Roberts luit expects soon to go South on account of his health. In his removal the county will lo.se a valuable citizen. |r^)OBERT POLLOCK is a prominent and rep- ILiir resentative farmer of Patton Township, residing on section 24, and it is with ple.as- ure that we record his sketch in this vol- ume, for he is well worthy of representation in this history of his adopted count3'. Indiana is the State of his nativity and his birth occurred in La Fayette, November 28, 1840. The Pollock family is of Scotch origin and was founded in this country' in earl3' Colonial days by ancestors who settled in JIaryland. The name, however, was originally Polk, and was thus written l)y the grandfather of our subject, Robert Polk, a Revo- lutionarj' soldier, who emigrated from Mary- land to Ohio in an earl}- d.ay. He w.as accom- panied by his s(m William, father of our subject, who was then a lad. It w.as William and his brothers who changed the spelling of the family 340 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. name. He remained in the Buckeye State until eighteen years of age, and then removed to Indi- ana, locating in La Fayette. Mr. Pollock was there united in marriage to P0II3' Ann I'atton, a native of Indiana and a daugliter of Judge David Patton, an earlj- pio- neer and prominent citizen of Ford County, wliose sketch appears elsewliere in this work. After tlieir marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Pollock resided for tliree years in La Fayette, and then removed to Kanka- kee County, 111., where he engaged in farming for a few years. Later, he engaged in agri- cultural pursuits in Monee Station, Will Count}', and in l>i.')l removed with his family to what is now Ford County, settling at Ten Mile Grove, where he was engaged in farming for more than twenty years. He now resides near the city of Maryville, Nodaway Count}', Mo., where he has made his home since 1880. The Pollock fam- ily numbered eight sons and four daughters and, with one exception, all reached adult age. Robert Pollock, whose name heads this record, came with his parents to this part of Illinois in 1851, a lad of eleven years, and hence almost his entire life has been passed in Ford County. The days of his boyhood and youth were spent in the usual manner of farmer lads, he aiding in the farm labors during the summer months, while in the winter season he attended the public schools. His primary education was supplemented by a course in Abingdon College, and he further pur- sued his studies in Lombard University. He be- gan teaching when only seventeen years of age, and followed that profession for several terms, but at length left the schoolroom for the farm, and for several ye-ii'S engaged in agricultuial pm- suits. In Kankakee County, 111., in the spring of 18G3, Mr. Pollock wedded Miss Margaret Olson, a na- tive of Sweden. He has always taken quite an interest in political affairs, and has been honored with several positions of i)ublic trust. He served as Marshal of Paxton, was also Constable and Deputy Sheriff, and filled other official positions a number of years. On questions of national im- portance, he casts his ballot in support of Demo- cratic principles, but at local elections votes for the man whom he thinks best qualified to fill the office, regardless of party alHliations. In 1880, he located upon his farm, three miles from Paxtou, where he now resides, and has since given his time to agricultural pursuits. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Pollock has been blessed by the presence of three children: Freder- ick J., who lives at home and follows farming; William, who aids his bruther in the operation of the farm; and Irena C, wife of Charles Graham, of Paxton. The parents attend the Congrega- tional Church and contribute to its support, al- though they are not members. Since a lad of eleven summers, Mr. Pollock has resided in Ford Count}', wiiere he has a wide acquaintance and is held in high regard, for he is esteemed Iiy his fel- low-citizens as a man of sterling worth and ex- emplary character. Ilis life h.as been a busy and useful one and, as a result of his own enter|)rising efforts, he has accumulated a comfortable compe- tence. -5- -^^ -^ AVID RKEP, who is engaged in general farming and stock-raising, owns and operates one hundred and eighty-nine acres of valu- able land situated on section 28, Patton Townshii). The farm is pleasantly situated aliout three and a half miles from Paxton. It is under a high state of cultivation, well im])roved with good buildings and stocked with a fine grade of horses and cattle. In- deed, the owner is regarded as one of the enter- prising and successful agriculturists of the com- munity. Mr. Reep was Itorn in Butler County, P.a., Dec- ember 3, 1845, and is a son of Isaac Reep, who was born in 1812. The grandfather also bore the name of Isaac Reep, and was likewise a native of the Keystone State, where the German ancestors of the family settled at an early day. The grand- father served as a soldier in the War of 1812. The father of our subject spent his boyhood days and youth in Butler County, and afterward m.arried Lydia Barnhart, who was born in that county and was a daughter of Andrew Barnhart, also a native of Pennsylvania and a soldier in the War of 1812. ; I ri /d-^A^/CfJ^^^ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 343 Mr. and Jlrs. Reep located upon a farm in the county of their nativity, and there reared their family. The father still resides on the old home- stead, and, at the age of sevent^'-nine 3'ears, is liv- ing a retired life. He has been an ardent supporter of the Republican party since its organization and has held numerous local olliccs. In religious be- lief, he is a Lutheran and takes an active interest in church work. David Reep, whose name heads this sketch, was reared to manhood upon his father's farm, acquired a good common-school education and remained under the parental roof until after he had attained his majority, wlien he left home, and on the 22d of October, 1867, was joined in wedlock to Miss Nannie Jane Kinkaid, who was born and reared in Butler County, and is a daughter of James and Elizabeth Kinkaid, who were also natives of the Keystone State. They began their domestic life upon a farm near the old Reep homestead, and our subject there engaged in agricultural pursuits for a number of j'ears, after which he sold out. It was in 1879, that he cauie to Illinois, locating first in Kankakee County, where he rented a farm for a year. He then came to Ford County, and pur- chased a tract of land — his present farm. He first bought only one hundred and nine acres but has since added to it an eighty-acre tract, and to farm- ing and stock-raising has devoted his entire atten- tion continuously since. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Reep have beeu Ijorn eight children, the eldest of whom, John F., is now em- ployed in the railroad shops at Evansvillc, Ind.; Minnie, who has engaged in teaching, is now at- tending the university at Bloomington, 111.; Lib- bie is attending the Collegiate Institute of Paxton; Alexander is attending the public schools of Pax- ton; James C, Albert and Iva May are attend- ing the home school, and Charles Everett com- pletes the family. They have lost two cliildren. The Reep household is a hospitable one and the members of the family rank high in social circles. Both Mr. and i\Iis. Reep are members of the Methodist Church at Paxton. In politics, he was formerly a supporter of the Republican party, but, being a stanch advocate of the cause of tera])erance, his views on that question led him to identify himself with the Prohibitionist party. He is a friend to all social, moral and educational interests, and whatever tends to benefit the community' or promote the general welfare is sure to receive his hearty support and co-operation. He is indeed a valued citizen and one deserving of representation in the history of his adopted county. r^^ OBERT BLACKSTOCK, of the Ford County '^t' Bank, of Paxton, of which Thompson, Blackstock & Co. are proprietors, is an '■^- earl 3- settler of Ford Count\' and has been identified with its financial history for nearly twenty-two years and a resident for thirty-eight years. He is a native of Ontario, Canada, his birth having occurred in Peterboro, of that province, on the 3d of August, 1825. His parents, the Rev. Moses and Jane (Morrow) Blackstock, emigrated from Ireland to Canada in 1818. The Rev. Moses Blackstock was a clergyman of the Methodist Epis- copal Church and was distinguished for his earnest Christian piety and consistent and faithful work in his holy calling. His wife was in full sj'mpathy with her husband and possessed in a marked degree the true Christian virtues that adorn and perfect the character of a woman whose husband is a min- ister of the Gospel. Tlie families of both were of Scottish origin. The paternal grandfather of our subject was a Presbyterian clerg3-nian of Scotland, w)io became chaplain for a Scottish colony under Lord Farnham, which located near Dublin in County Cavan, Ireland. The Rev. Moses Black- stock, after attending the meetings in Dublin of an English Methodist missionary, named Gideon Ous- ley, united with the Methodist Church. After his conversion, he went to Canada as a Methodist mis- sionary, taking with him his wife, whom he had married two years previous. He was continuously and successfully engaged in ministerial work in that country' until 1855, when he emigrated to the United States and located near La Fayette, Ind., where he united with the Northwestern Indiana Conference and labored faithfully and industri- 344 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. ously in that field until his death, which occurred in September, 1876. His wife had died some eight- een years previous, in La Fayette. Robert Blackstock was reared and educated in Canada under the best moral influences and the strictest Christian discipline. At the age of nine- teen, lie began learning the trade of harness-maker and was employed in that vocation for the suc- ceeding eight 3ears. In 1852, he went to Shaw- nee Mound, and engaged in farming. In Feb- ruary, 1853, he was united in marriage to Miss Emily Meharrj', daughter of Hugh and Susan (Ambrose) Meharry, of Shawnee Mound, Ind., whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Blackstock, of whom three died in childhood, while a son and a daughter are yet living. Ira B., the elder, is now engaged with his father in the management of the Ford County Bank, of which he is one of the pro- prietors, and R. May presides over her father's household. In the year 1856, Mr. Blackstock removed from Indiana to Ford County, 111., and commenced farming about three miles west of the site of the present city of Paxton, which occupation he pursued with marked success for a period of twelve years and accumulated considerable prop- erty. In 1870, he removed to Paxton and became interested in banking, and on the 1st of Novem- ber of the follovving year, in company with A. C. Thompson, Edwin Rice and C. E. Ilendenson, he participated in the incorporation of the First Na- tional Bank of Paxton, in which he was a stock- holder. In the spring of 1874, he was chosen cashier of the bank to succeed S. J. Toy, and con- tinued to serve in that position until February 10, 1876, when the bank went into voluntary liquida- tion. Then the existing firm of Thompson, Black- stock & Co. organized the Ford County Bank, which has since conducted a safe and increasing business and which is now under the management of Mr. Blackstock and his son, Ira B., resident part- ners. In January, 1890, Mr. Blackstock was called to mourn the loss of his wife, who passed to her eternal rest on the 9th day of the month. In politics, our subject is an earnest Republican but has never sought or desired prommence in public affairs. His life has been distinguished by the strictest observance of Christian duty and an earnest and active interest in the cause of the church of his choice, the Methodist P^piscopal, of which he has been a consistent member from his youth up. He was one of the constituent members of the first church established in Paxton, and has been an ac- tive and efficient worker in the Sunday-school and in all that pertains to the advance of the best in- terests of societ3' aud the Christian religion. He and his brother-in-law, Francis Meharry , were the priucipal contributors in the construction of the Meharry Chapel, the Methodist house of worship, situated at a point four miles west of Paxton. It was built at a cost of ^1,400 and was the first reg- ular meeting-house erected in Ford County. He was also a liberal contributor toward the building of the Methodist Church in Paxton. Mr. Blackstock is one of the organizers of the Building, Loan and Savings Association of this place and was chosen Treasurer of the association. In all the affairs of life, he has proved true to the high moral princi- ples inculcated in his youth by his venerated par- ents and is esteemed a most worthy and respected citizen by a wide circle of acquaintances. V^^^^ICHOLAS BALFOUR DAY, a well-known I jjj early settler of Ford County, and a pioneer lAS^ merchant of Paxton, now the manager and junior partner in the mercantile firm of J. P. Day & Co., was born in Preble County, Ohio, on the 12th of November, 1835, and is a son of Samuel and Peggy (Purviance) Day, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work. The childhood and youth of our subject were passed on his father's farm. He attended the dis- trict school and learned to swing an ax about as early as he learned to read. His home was in a heavil_v timbered region, where every acre of land represented an immense amount of hard labor, compared with the land whereon he subsequently made his home in Illinois. When he was sixteen years of age, he removed with his parents to Miami PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 345 Comity, Iiid., and after there rosidiiiij upon a farm for two years, the family, eonsistiiiif of the parents, two married sons and their families, and one mar- ried daughter and iier family, also Nicholas 11. and his younger sister, emigrated to Illinois. They left Indiana in the fall of 1853, with teams and wagons loaded with houseliold goods, in addition to whieh they drove eonsideraI)le live stock, making (piite a caravan. They made their way to N'ermilion County, 111., and settled on land near Danville. The fol- lowing siiring they put in crops, hut decided to go farther to the Northwest where the country was more newly settled, and land cheaper. In August, 18.'54, Mr. Day and his sons, Samuel and N. n.,came to what is now Ford County, and settled near the site of the jjresent city of Paxton, then a wild prai- rie. An incident illustrating the primitive condi- tion of the situatKjn is given by our suliject, who relates the story of his one day running a prairie wolf down while out on horsehack, and his killing the animal at a point tliat is now the center of the city of Paxton. The killing was accomplished by the common method in pioneer da3's. The rider having tii'ed the wolf out, took off one of the stir- rups with the strap attached and struck the wolf over the head without dismounting. He also helped to build the first house in Prairie City, now Paxton, so that he may be said to have been in prett}' near the beginning of civilization at the county seat of Ford County. Mr. Daj' spent the fall and winter of 1854 in assisting his father in getting a home established, and was back and forth between the new home and the farm near Danville, aiding in securing tiie crops. The next winter he helped break prairie, and on the loth of December, a month after his twentieth birthda\', was married at the lady's home, to Miss Barbara, the eldest daughter of Daniel C. and Susan Stoner, who was one year his jnnior. She was born in Tippecanoe Count)-, Ind., and came to lord County with her parents in 1852. The \'oung couple who at so early an age had launched their ship in life upon the sea of matri- mony', were rich only in youth, hope and energy, and a determination to succeed in making their way in the world. Mr. Day's worldly possessions consisted solel}- in the ownership of a horse and saddle, whieh may have been very useful for pur- poses of locomotion over the prairie, and no doul)t might carry double on a [linch, but could not very well be utilized for shelter, food or raiment. The bride's father was well-to-do for a settler in the new country, and was evidently shrewd and sensi- ble, and instead of reaching for his [locket-lxiok and making the opening chapter of the married life of iiis daughter and son-in-law cheerful aTid easy, took Mr. Day at his word when lie said he only asked him for his daughter, and let the young folks learn by experience tliat married life without means was no summer holiday. And the^- learned it. But their independence and pluck, backed by in- defatigable energy, soon made the road smoother. Sir. Day rented a partially improved farm, where he and his wife worked with all their strength and endurance to make a start. Those were hard times, too, in the history of the West; produce brought but small return for labor, and money w.as scarce, especially in the years 1857, 1858 and 1859. After a few years, hoping to better themselves, they rented land near Danville and removed there. IMr. Stoner had evidently watched with satisfaction the manly independent course of his son-in-law, and had made up his mind that the time had come when he might safely lend a helping hand, espe- cially as he had learned that a valuable farm near by was on the market at a very low figure. So he wrote Mr. Day that lie wanted to see him .at once. On our subject's arrival, he was surprised to learn that it was the desire of his wife's father that he should buy this farm of two hundred and twenty .acres at a cost of about ¥3,000, and that the first pa3'ment of §1,000 w.as made by Mr. Stoner, he taking Mr. Da\"s note for the same. The old gentleman then took from all the holes in the walls of the rude cabin that amount in gold, for which he took a note on a long time. When Mr. Sto- ner was fully satisfied that his son-in-law was a financial success, he made his wife a present of that % 1 ,000 note as a birthday present. The purchase was made, and Mr. Day found himself the owner of a fine farm partially improved, but he was also deeply in debt. He had given his notes for the deferred ])ayments in amounts of $500, running one, two and three years. Then came the tug of war. He 346 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. raised a big crop of corn the first year, but on liaul- ing a load into Paxton, was offered onlj' ten cents a bushel for it. lie finally sold it for twelve and a half cents per bushel, but decided not to sell any more at those figures. The date of payment of the first note came round, and, for the first and last time in his life, he had to admit that he could not meet his obligation. He had a lot of corn in store and some cattle, but to sell at going prices would only make his ruin more complete. So he got an ex- tension of time. This was during the first year of the war; gold had disa|)peared from sight, and prices were tending upward. To make a long story short, he sold his ten-cent corn for seventy-five cents per bushel, and his cattle, that had been held at two cents per pound, for six or seven, and he soon had his land paid for and money to spare. After the farm was clear, Mr. Day found that both he and his wife, by their long continued strug- gle, were broken down in healtii. and they decided to let the farm, move to Paxton and take a3car's much needed rest. The change was made in the fall of 1863, but the result was not what they an- ticipated. The sudden change from active and continuous labor to idleness was terrible to Mr. Day, who became so uneasy that he had no com- fort or pleasure in life. It happened that an ac- quaintance offered him a position as clerk in a gen- eral store at a modest salary, which he gladly accepted in order to have something to occupy his time. He learned to like his new work, and con- tinued in it about two years, or until he had thor- oughly learned the mercantile business, when he started in the dry-goods trade for himself in 1865, and has followed it almost continually since, mak- ing him the oldest merchant in Paxton in years of business experience. During all this time, he has still held the title to his farm, which is one of the most productive and valualile in the couiit3'. His wife inherited one hundred and sixty acres ad- joining it, which IS also valuable land. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Da}-, a son and two daughters: Florence A., the eldest, is now the wife of William P. Martin, of Paxton; Viola E. married Wilnier Wright, and is now re- siding in Chicago; Curtis, the only son, is single and in business with his father in Paxton. Recently a partnership was formed between Mr. Day and his brother, .John P., in the mercantile business, under the firm name of J. P. Day & Co. While this partnership has existed only a year, they have been associated in business, in one way and another, for the greater part of their mature j'ears. It has been a marked characteristic of the Day brothers, that they have always worked to- gether in harmony and mutual confidence; the younger ones looking up to John P. as the head of their family, and their counselor and adviser. N. B. Day has alw.ays been a Republican in poli- tics, and while he has served as Supervisor of his township for six years, he has never been an aspir- ant for public office. His religious training in early life was under the auspices of the Christian Church, to which his parents belonged, lint later in life he became associated with the Methodist Church as an oHScial member, and with his family attends that church. Mr. Day has lieen known to the citizens of Ford and adjacent counties from early manhood, with whom he has maintained in- timate social and Ijusiness relations, and it is no flattery to say of him that his integrity is above question, and his character without reproach. He is genial, cordial and unassuming in manner, and is always to be relied upon for a fair and honorable discharge of the duties devolving upon him in all the relations of life. ENRY C. RAWLINGS, a member of the Rice Grain Elevator Company and of the Wabash Valley Coal Company, is a promi- yj nent citizen of Paxton, and well deserves mention in this volume. He claims Indiana as the State of his nativity', his birth having occurred in .Jennings County on the 23d of July, 1848. His parents are Henry and Caroline (Amnions) Rawl- ings, the former a native of Kentucky, and the lat- ter of Jefferson County, Ind. Both are still living and reside in Jackson County, Ind., near Seymour. Henry C. Rawlings,whose name heads this record, was educated in the country schools of his native State, where the days of his boyhood and 3-outh *■ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD 351 were passed. Thinking Paxton fui-nished a good opening, lie came to this city in the latter part of 187.'5, and engaged in the harness-making business. Some time afterwards he embarked in the dry-goods trade and continued merchandising until 1890, when lie became connected with the Rice Grain Elevator Company of Paxton. When a young man, in December, 1 864, Mr. Rawl- ings responded to the country's call for troops to help crush out the rebellion and became a member of Company F, One Hundred and Forty-fifth In- diana Infantry. He went into the service as a drummer boy, being then less than seventeen 3'ears of age, and served until the close of the war, when he was honorably discharged. He is now a mem- ber of Paxton Post, No. 387, G. A. R., and of Mt. Olivet Commandery, No. 38, K. T. He exercises his right of franchise in support of the Prohibition party, and as every true American citizen should do, takes an interest in political affairs although he has never sought public ofHce. The lady who is now Mrs. Rawlings bore the maiden name of Margaret Cooper. She is a native of Springl'icld, Ohio, and a daughter of James and Elizabeth Cooper. Their marriage was celebrated on the 22d of February, 1876. Both Mr. and Mrs. Rawlings are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is widely and favorably known as a popular merchant and successful business man and both he and his wife are highly respected members of Paxton societ}'. fp^REDERICK J. .lOHNSON, who owns and pHcTji operates two hundred and forty acres of jk^ laud on section 15, Patton Township, is numbered among the earl}^ settlers of the county, bis residence here covering a period of twenty- seven years. He was born on the 6th of July, 1842, in Sweden, and is a son of John and Johanna (Anderson) Johnson. The family crossed the At- lantic to America in 1853, taking passage at Guten- berg on the 24th of July, in a sailing-vessel, which reached Boston on the 22d of October, after thir- teen weeks spent upon the broad Atlantic. Mr. 15 Johnson at once came West, locating in La Fayette, Ind., where he made his home for a few years. It was in 1865 that he came to Illinois and settled in Ford County, where he bought a tract of land of two hundred acres near Paxton and began its de- velopment. His wife died the following year. Mr. Johnson still resides with his slev- enth Indiana Infantry. The regiment first went to New Orleans and from there to Fortress Monroe, and then on to Washington. Going to Shenandoah Vallev, they took part in the battles of Ilalltown, Winchester, Fisher's Hill and Cedar Creek, where Sheridan made his famous ride. At the battle of Winchester, he received a wound in the left arm, besides having his canteen shot off and a ball passing through his haversack. After leaving the Siienandoah Valley, he was on ' detached duty at Baltimore, Md., where he was mustered out. being discharged at Indianapolis in August, 1865. After the close of the war, Mr. llaupt went to Covington, Ind., and began to learn the harness- making business. He was to have served an appren- ticeship of three years, but after a year and a half he left his emplo3'er and came to Fairbur}', 111., in 1867, wliere lie worked under instructions for six months and then worked as a journeyman. In October, 1864, he came to Gibson City, and opened a harness shop. As his trade increased, he extended his business and has now a fine trade and is widely known as a first-cla.ss workman. In Covington, Ind., on the 10th of July, 1872, Mr. Haupt led to the marriage altar Miss Adella C, daughter of Abraham and Susan (Wertz) Royer, both of whom are of German descent. About the year 1845, they removed to Fountain County, Ind., in which State Mr. Royer still lives at the age of eighty years. To Mr. and ]\Irs. Royer were born eight children, all girls, of wliom Mrs. Haupt is the sixth in order of birth. Mr. and Mrs. Haupt have become tlie parents of six children: Frank C, who assists his father; Bertha G., Lela L.,Guy I., Pearl A. and Edna F. Mr. Haupt, his wife and their three oldest chil- dren are members of the Presbyterian Church, and, in politics, he is a Republican but not an office- seeker. Socially, he is a member of the Odd Fel- lows' society and the Knights of Pythias fraternity, having been Deputy of the latter order for some eiglit years and having held about all the ottices of both lodges. He also belongs to Lott Post No. 70, G. A. R., of Gibson. As a business man he has been quite successful, having accumulated a good property and si cured a good trade. For eighteen years he has been in the mercantile business in Gibson City, and is the only one in his line that lias made no chanoe in the firm title. AMUEL LEVI DAY, of the firm of Day real-estate and loan agents of Pax- is one of the very earliest settlers of the city of Paxton, and was the first Clerk of the Circuit Court of Ford Countv. He is well deserving of representation in this volume and it is with pleasure that we present his sketch to our readers. Mr. Day was born in Preble Count}', Ohio, on the 25tli of February, 183.3, his parents being Samuel and Peggy (Purviance) Day. In the month of August, 1851, the family of our subject removed to Miami County, Ind., Sam- uel accompanying them. The succeeding two years of his life were passed on a farm in the vi- cinity of Peru, and in the autumn of 1853 they all emigrated to Eastern Illinois. Their first home in this State was fixed near Danville, where land was occupied, and the following year a crop planted. In the summer of 1854, Mr. Day, Sr., 356 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. accompanied by his sons, Samuel L. and N. B., came to what is now Ford County. The father made his liome near Prairie City, now Paxton, where he spent the remainder of his days. Samuel L. Day was married in Illinois, about 1856, to Miss Susanna Swisher, who died in 1858, leaving no living children. In 18&0, lie was again married, his second union being with Miss .Jennie Lyons, a daughter of Alexander Lyons, of Or- leans County, X. Y. She is a member of the Con- gregational Church. Her birth occurred in Onon- daga County, N. Y., and she came to Illinois in 1857. Three children, sons, have been born of their union, as follows: Mark L. married Libbie Daley, of Brooklyn, N. Y., and resides in Chicago; Fred L. married Ella Blackstone and also resides in Cliicago, where to them was born, in 18!)1, a daughter named Doroth3'. Mark L. and Fred L. are now classed among the most prosperous cloak salesmen of Chicago. Cljde A., who was born in Paxton, June 25, 1869, was educated in the public schools and the Collegiate Institute of his native citj', studied law under the direction of Cook & Moffett, of Paxton, and passed a satisfac- tory examination before the committee of .Judges of the Supreme Court of Illinois, when he was but eighteen years old, but his license was with- held until he became of age. He was probably the youngest law student to pass a successful exam- ination in the State. For a time after securing his license he was in practice alone, but in June, 181(0, became a member of the law firm of Tipton, Moffett & Day, now Moffett & Day. He is a Knight Templar, belonging to Paxton Lodge No. 416, A.F. & A.M.; Ford Chapter No. 113, R. A. M.. and Mt. Olivet Commandery No. 38. On the formation of Ford County, in 1859, Mr. Day, of this sketch, was elected the first Clerk of the Circuit Court and Recorder of the new county, which position he held for two terms, or four years. He opened the books of the office and served under Judge David Davis. On leaving the service of the county, he engaged in the hard- ware business in company with Gen. L. A. Dodd, which connection continued several years, when he became a member of the dry-goods house of Day Bros. & King. Later, he joined J. P. Middle- coff in the same line and continued that connec- tion until 1876, when he became connected with the real-estate firm of Hanley, Sutton, Cloud & Day. Subsequently, he became a member of tlie real-estate firm of Da}-, Bogardus dr Jlorris, and, in 1877, he went to Champaign, where he repre- sented the Illinois Loan & Trust Company until 1879, and has since been engaged in the real-estate business with his brothers, under the firm name of Day Bros. In politics, Mr. D.ay was a Republican until 1872, since which time he hits affiliated with the Democrats. In 1872, he was a delegate to the Democratic Convention which nominated Horace Greeley for the Presidency. While but a middle- aged man, Mr. Day is one of the oldest in busi- ness 3'ears in the city of Paxton, and is one of the most highly respected citizens of that place. -^^ ELMER ENOCH, one of the most extensive stock dealers of Ford County' and a promi- ' nent resident of Roberts, is so well known in this community that he needs no special introduc- tion lo our readers wlio will, we feel assured, re- ceive this record of his life with interest. He was born in McLean County, 111., April 10, 1860, and is a S(m of Joseph and Sarah (Mitchell) Enoch. His father was born in McLean County, in 1832, acquired a common-school education and is now a ^ dealer in real estate and live stock. In politics, he is a Republican and is a member of the Methodist Church, to which his wife also belonged. Her death occurred in 1869. Our subject has two sisters: Lottie, who is married and resides in Chi- cago; and Louisa, who is married and makes her home in Mcl^ean County. Elmer Enoch acquired a good practical education in the common schools, and at the age of seventeen commenced life for himself with no capital sdve a disposition to succeed and a pair of willing hands. He gave his attention to the pursuit with which he had been familiar since his boyhood, that of stock raising, and until 1884, resided in McLean County. In that year, he came to Roberts, where he has since PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 357 made his liome. Duriiiij 1891, lie sliippcfl over the Illinois Central Raih-oad one hundred and fifty-five car loads of stock, the largest shii)inent made on this division of the road in that year by one man. He purchases all kinds of live stock and makes a specialty of hogs and cattle. He deals directly with the Chicago markets and liis sales in the past year amounted to about ¥l-oungest of the fam- ily. Of tliose deceased, three died in infancy-; Francis Marion died October 7, 1883, at the age of eighteen years; and Carny died at the age of se\^n months. Ml'. Trickel is an old Jackson Democrat and a stanch advocate of the principles of that partly. He cast his first Presidential vote for Martin Van Buren before he had attained liis majority. He commenced life a poor man, witliout capital, save an enter[irising disi)Osition, 3'et is now one of the thrifty and well-to-do farmeis of Patton Town- ship. His success is not due to any good luck, but is the result of his own industiy, good manage- ment and the exercise of correct business princi- ples. He is straightforwai'd and honest in all that he does and has the confidence of the entire com- munity. He has long made his home in P'ord County, and has tluis been an eye-witness of al- most its entire growth, has seen the advance of progress and civilization and has aided largely in its development. Much is due the early settlers who bore all the hardships and trials of pioneer life to make homes in the Far West, and were thus founders of the county. Amcmg these was Mr. Trickel and we take pleasure in presenting this brief record of his life to our readers. OIIN II. MOXTZ has for seventeen years been identified with the interests of Ford County and is a practical and progressive agriculturist, residing on section 33, Lj-- man Township. A native of Germany, he was born in Hesse Cassel, April 13. 1847, and is the eldest in a family of two sons and two daughters. His brother Luther is a stone and brick mason, residing in Roberts. He married Miss Yanda Sliambrook, and they are members of the Mctliod- ist Cliurch. The father of our subject crossed the briny (lee|) in 185(1, landing at Baltimore, whence he went lo Chambersburg, Pa., where he resided for tliuty-seven years. He and his wife now make their home with their son John. They are hale and hearty old people, and are members of the German Reformed Church. Our subject was onl}' three years old when brought by his parents to America. He was reared to agricultural pursuits, and acquired his educa- tion in the common schools, but b}' reading and observation lias made himself a well-informed man, who can converse readil.y and fluently on the current topics of the day. He resided in the Keystone State until he was tliirt3"-two years of age, when, in 1870, he came with his family to Ford County, which was then a swampy region, containing more water than land. On the 29th of October, 1871, Mr. Montz was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Hoover, a native of Pennsylvania, and a daugliter of Mich- ael and Susanna (Etter) Hoover. Unto them have been born eight children, five sons and three daughters, six of whom are yet living: Mintie V., Maggie S., Anna Florence, Irwin Y., John II., Cliarlie, Roy and Clarence M. The parents are de- vout members of the Methodist Church of Roberts, and Mr. INIontz lias been a leader of the choir for A.^ Q-#;^^^^^^ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 367 seven years. He has also been closely identified with the .Sunday-Sfhool work and has acted as delegate to the county conventionsof the Sunday- school many times. lie has been Steward and Trustee of tiie church for many years, and is As- sistant Suijerintendent of the Sunday-school. His consistent Christian life has won him thehigh reg.ard and confidence of all. In politics, he is a stalwart Rci)ul)lican and cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. George B. McClelland. The cause of edu- cation finds in him a warm friend, and while serv- ing for nine years as one of the Board of Directors, he has done effective service for the schools of this community. Socially, he belongs to the Meadow JNIound Grange, of which he is now Sec- retary. Of a benevolent disi)Osition, he gives liberally to charities and his aid is never withheld from any interest calculated to prove of public benefil and promote the general welfare. ^ ON. .JONATHAN P. MIDDLECOFF, presi- dent and general manager of the Paxton ISrick and Tile Company and of the Paxton ^S^J Canning Company, is one of the prominent business men of Ford County, having resided in Paxton since the pioneer days of the city. He was born in Richmond, Ind., on the 20th of February, 1838. His parents, Daniel and Theresa (New- comer) Middlecoff, were natives of Maryland, the father born in 1800, and the mother in 1809. On removing from that State in 1827, they located in Indiana, where they resided until 1849, which year saw them residents of Cincinnati, Ohio, where Mr. Middlecoff, Sr., carried on the wholesale grocery business for many years, and in 1861, came to Ford County, III., locating in Patton Townsiiip, where his death occurred in 18C6. His wife still survives him and now resides in Paxton. Our subject was a lad of eleven years when he i-emoved with his parents from Indiana to Cincin- nati, where he attended the city schools and later pursued his educaticni in St. .John's College and Farmers' College of Ohio. In 1857, he came to Illinois and embarked in the mercantile business in Ludlow, Champaign County, where he remained until 18fi2, when he removed to his farm in Ford County. He then engaged in agricultural pursuits until 1867, when he came to Paxton and opened a hardware store, which he carried on for sevei'al years. In 1881, he became associated with C. Bogar- dus, P. Whitmer and F. L. Cook in the manufac- ture of drain tile and brick, under the style of the Paxton Brick and Tile Companj', of which he was chosen president and general manager and has since continued to hold that position up to the present time, covering a period of eleven years. During this time, the company has prospered and has built uji a large and successful business, which has not only benefited the proprietors but has proved a lasting advantage to the farmers in the vicinity. In 1888, he helped to organize the Pax- ton Canning Company, of which he is president and general manager, and which has now been in successful operation for four years, and in addition to his manufacturing interests above alluded to, he has an extensive real-estate property, including several valuable farms and city property. In .January, 1864, Mr. Middlecoff was married in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Miss Mary F. Fox, a daugh- ter of Richard Fox, the original starch manufac- turer. The lady is a native of Cincinnati and in that city her education was acquired. Three chil- dren were born of their union, hut ail are now de- ceased. Alice, the eldest, died at the age of six- teen months; Samuel died at the age of twentj^-two months; while Addle, who lived to be an accom- plished and attractive young woman, died March y, 1891. In polities, Mr. Middlecoff is a Republican. He was several times elected Supervisor of Patton Township, serving as such during the years 1866, 1867, 1872, 1877, and 1878. The two Last years, he was chairman of the County Board. In 1872, he was elected a member of the Twent3--eighth General Assembly, .where he served on the Com- mittees on Public Buildings and Grounds, and Corporations, aI»o on the Committee on County and Township Organizations, and proved a useful and inlluential member of the House of Representa- tives. He has twice served as Mayor of Paxton 368 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. and has ever been active in the promotion of the citj's best interests. It was during his second term as !aa\or that the city established its present effleient s^'Stem of water-worlvs. Mv. Middlecoflf is president of the board of trustees of the Rice Col- legiate Institute of Paxton. A Knight Templar Mason, he holds meml)ership with Paxton Lodge No. 416, A. F. ^li and Ethel. Mrs Pool is a member of the Presbyterian Church of Clarence and although not a member, Mr. Pool contributes liberally to its support and also gives freely of his means to charitable and benevolent enterprises. The cause of education finds in him a warm friend and his support is never withheld from any interest calculated to promote the general welfare. He is indeed a val- ued citizen of the community and one most highly f >^-^--^-7^ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 369 esteemeil in this locality. In politics, he was a Democrat, but of late years has been independent, voting for the man, regardless of party affiliations. His residence in Ford County covers a period of almost twenty years, during which time he has won many friends and the confidence and regard of all witli whom he has been brought in contact. ^SGOOD THOMPSON is now living a retired life in Melvin, resting after many years spent in toil and labor which brought him the competence whicii now enables him to lay aside all business cares. We have in our subject a native of the Pine Tree State, who was born iu Somerset County, on the 30tii of December, 1821. His father, James Thompson, was alsoanative of Maine, and was of English descent. He married Sarah Bacon and they became the parents of four children, as follows: Timothy, a cooper and carpenter bj' trade, who died in 1884; Osgood, of this sketch; Lemuel, who died iu 1850; and James, a resident farmer of IMaine. The mother was called to her final home in 1832, and a few years 'ater the father was again married, his second union being with Matilda Stiles, by whom he had five children: Sarah, wife of Benjamin Moody; Hannah J., wife of Robert Sehaddock; John, a farmer of Maine; Mary E. is married and lives in Maine; and Lydia, wife of Albert Small; Arietta is married and lives in Maine. The educational advantages which our subject received were those afforded by the district schools of his native State, which he attended until fifteen years of age. He tlien began learning the carpen- ter's trade and made his home under the parental roof until he had attained his majority, when he started out in life for himself, working on a farm by the month and also at carpenter work. As a companion and helpmate on life's journey, he chose Miss Hannah W. Wentwortli, daugliter of Reuben and Sarah Wentworth, the marriage ceremony be- ing performed on the 18th of December, 1842. The 3'oung coujile began their domestic life in the Pine Tree State where they resided until 1866, when thej' came to Illinois, and in Highland, Grundy County, Mr. Thompson rented land and began farming. The following year, be Hime to Ford County, purchased eighty acres of raw land in Wall township and made some improvements thereon, after which he returned to Grundy County, where he continued to reside until 1869. In that year he brought his family to the farm in Wall township, and now devoted his entire time and attention to its cultivation. His fields were well tilled and, in consequence, abundant harvests re- warded his efi'orts, so that in the course of time he was enabled to lay by some money and is now the possessor of a competence. After carrying on general farming for some time, he purchased prop- erty in Melvin and, as before stated, is there living a retired life. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Thompson have been born a family of seven children, namely: William, who is a retired farmer of Mindeu, Neb.; Frederick G., district sergeant in one of the police stations in Chicago; Ann B., at home; RovelloG., a farmer re- siding in Grund3' County, 111.; James S., who oc- cupies the position of overseer in the tile factory of Melvin; May, wife of Charles Vananthro]), also a resident of Melvin; and Byron O., who makes his home in Chicago. In his political views, Mr. Thompson is a Repub- lican, have long supported that party, although he has never sought or desired public office. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Church, and he is a worthy and respected citizen of Ford County, where he has now made his home for about twentj'- three years. He has lived the (juietand unobtrusive life of a farmer but his true worth has been recog- nized by the high esteem which is tendered him. _y (^p^IMOTHY ROSS, a grain merchant and a /^>;, member of the County Board of Supervisors ^^^ from Drummer Township, has been a resi- dent of Ford County for twenty-six years and for nineteen years has made his home in Gibson City. Mr. Ross is a native of the Keystone State, born 370 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. in Greene County on the 18th" of October, 1846, and is a son of Abuer and INIarinda (McClelland) Ross, wl# were of Scoteli and Irish descent, respect- ively, but of American ancestry many generations remote. His parents both died while our subject was hut a child. He was only seven \ears of age when he lost his mother, who died in Pennsylvania, and his fattier died in Iowa when he was ten 3'ears old. Timothy Ross was brought up by an uncle in his native State until he reached the age of eighteen years. He then solicited and received the amount of his patrimony, $200, with which he determined to gratify a craving to see the West and seek an opportunity to make his way in the world. In pur- suance of this desire, he made his way to Chicago in 1866, but soon afterward continued his journey to Ludlow, where he made the acquaintance of Thomas Stevens, an extensive farmer and prominent stock- man of Champaign County. The acquaintance l)roving mutually agreeable, he engaged to work for ^Ir. Stevens, whose home was just to the south and near the Ford County line. He continued in the employ of Mr. Stevens until 1869, when he entered upon the business, but still made his home with that gentleman for four j'ears, when he estab- lished himself in the grain business, in 1873. in Gibson Citj'. On the 30th of September, 1875, Mr. Ross was united in marriage at the home of her father in Drummer Township, Ford County, to Miss Julia A. Stevens, her father being the earl}' friend and employer of her husband. Mrs. Ross was born in Champaign Count}', 111., and her motlier's maiden name was Hannah Catherine. Four children, two sons and two daughters, were born to Mr. and Mrs. Ross: Charles E., Beulah May, William Chalmers and Clella, all of whom were born in Gibson City. In political sentiment, our subject affiliates with the Republican party and has held a number of official positions, proving a faithful and efficient officer. He has been School Director and Village Trustee and was appointed Supervisor for Drum- mer Township on the 1st of June, 1891, being elected his own successor in April of the following year, without opposition, for a term of two years. He is a member of the present Village Board and Director of the school district. Socially, he is a Mason, holding menibershii) with Gibson Lodge No. 733 A. F. & A. INI.; Gilison Chapter No. 183 R. A. M., and Mt. Olivet Commander}' No. 38 K. T., of Paxton. Mr. Ross has a line farm of two luindred and eighty acres, situated in Brown Township, Champaign County, which he rents. He has been in the grain business for fourteen years and has built up a large and lucrative trade. He is now buying at four different stations besides Gibson City, namely: Harpster, Guthrie and Lud- low, on the Illinois Central, and Garber on the Wabash Railroad. The grain bought consists of corn and oats, and the aggregate annual business amounts to about seven hundred and fifty thousand bushels. Mr. Ross is one of the prominent citizens of the county and highly respected throughout the community. OIIN C. AMM is one of the widely-known and highly respected farmers of Patton j_-^. Township, his home being on section 35, '^^ where he has a valuable farm. We are pleased to record a sketch of his life in this work, for we know it will be received with interest by his many friends in this community. Mr. Amm was born in Bavaria, Germany, on the 21st of Ma}', 1834, and is a son of Henry Amm, also a native of Bavaria. The father there grew to manhood, was married and reared his family. He never left the land of his birth, but there followed farming throughout his entire life. Our subject was one of a family of ten children, eight sons and two daughters, all of whom reached the years of maturity. At the age of six, he en- tered the public schools, where he remained until a youth of fourteen. In 1853, when a young man of nineteen years, he bade good-bye to his old home and started out to seek his fortune in the New World. It was the 5 th of June that he sailed from Bremen, and on the lltli of August, he ar- rived in Baltimore, Md., after a pleasant voyage of sixty-seven days. He did not pause long, how- ever, in Baltimore, but went directly to Preble i Ji^^/0^^^ <9: e^«-ci-^ I'ORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 375 County, Ohio, where he secured work in building stone fences. He then worked upon a farni bj' the month for three years, .after whii'h, in 185(), lie came to Illinois. Mr. Amm's first location in Illinois was made in Shelb.y County, where he continued to work as a f.irm hand, by the month, for a year, when, in 1857, he went to Peoria County. Three years Later we find him a resident of Tazewell Count}^ where he was employed as a farm hand for four years. He had been industrious and economical in all this time and thus havina: .accumulated some capital, in 1864 he m.ade his first purchase of land, bu3'ing an improved farm of ninety acres, which he operated for three years. On the ex[)iratiun of that time he removed to Logan County and rented a farm for four years. It was in 1874 that Mr. Amm came to Ford County and bought a one hun- dred and sixty acre tr.ict, the same upon which he now resides. It was then but slightly improved, but he cleared and broke the land, planted crops, and the fertile fields were soon 3'ielding him abundant harvest. He has erected good buildings and the Amm homestead, which is pleasantly lo- cated five miles from Paxton, is considered one of the valuable farms in the township. While residing in Tazewell County, Mr. Aram was united in marriage to Miss Hannah J., daughter of .Jesse and Emily M. (Davis) Dillon. Her father, a native of Ohio, w.as one of the hon- ored pioneers of Tazewell Count}-, where the daugh- ter was born. Their union was celebrated on the 5th of September, 186.5, and has been blessed with a family of five children: John Henry, wlio is now married and resides on a farm in Champaign County; Leo Leroy, who is living on an adjoining farm in Ford County; Saphrona Alice, Mar}- and Thomas Davis, who complete the family. They have also lost two children: Theresa A., who died at the age of seven months; and Martin L., who died at the age of five years. Mr. and Mrs. Amm are memliers of the Christian Church of Ludlow, and are highl}- respected peo- ple, esteemed for their many excellencies of char- acter. In politics, he is a Republican, having sup- ported thatparty since he cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln. He has served for 16 nine consecutive years as a member of the School Board, and the cause of education has found in him a warm and faithful friend. In the summer of 1891, he made a trij) to (icrmany and visited his old home and the scenes of his youth. lie thus spent two months very pleasantly, after which he returned to his home. AURICE II. WE.WER is the owner of a fine farm of two hundred acres, situated on sections 15 and 22, Wall Township, and his landed possessions here and elsewhere aggregate five hundred and sixty acres. He is a prominent and representative farmer of the com- munity and one who has a wide .acquaintance throughout the countj-. He was born on the 19th of August, 1833, in Oneida County, N. Y., .and is a son of Henry and Louise (Si)encer) Weaver. His father was born in the Empire State, .lanuary 6, 1804, and followed the occupation of farming. In politics, he was a Whig, and liimself and wife were members of the Methodist Church. His death occurred February 22,1846, and his remains were in- terred in the cemetery of Deerfield Corners, Oneida County, where a l)eautiful monument marks his last resting place. His wife was born in New Eng- land, October 6, 1807, came to the West in 1874, and spent her remaining days with her son jNIau- ricc. She died July 6, 1888, and was buried in Ijoda Cemetery. Their family numbered six children, four sons and two daughters: Catherine E., wife of John K. Gray, a speculator and gardener of Oneida County, N. Y.; Albert, who served as a soldier in the late war as a member of a New York regiment, died in Ford County; George Henry died in New York; Maria Louisa, wife of Josejih Mansfield, is living in Toledo, Ohio; Maurice is the next younger; and Joseph H., who has also followed agricultural pur- suits, resides with his brother Maurice. We now take up the personal history of our subject, feeling that it will prove of interest to many of our readers, .as he is widely and favorably known. Nothing occurred to vary the monotony 376 POETEAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. of bis boyhood days, which were spent upon his father's farm and in attendance at the district schools until about sixteen years of age. His father died when he was a lad of fourteen ^ears. after which he went to live with one of his uncles. On leaving school, he began life for himself and for five years worked as a farm hand at $8 per month. In 1855, he went to Ottawa, III., where he worked upon a farm for one year, and it was thus that he got his start in life. Ho next rented land near Ottawa, where he made his home until 1865, when he purchased an eighty-acre farm with the means he had accumulated through his own laliors. He afterward sold out at an advance and then purchased sixty-five acres. Upon that farm he continued to make his home until 1870, when he sold and came to Ford County, purchasing two hundred acres of land on sections 15 and 22, Wall Township. There he has made his home continu- ously since, covering a period of more than twenty- two years. He is truly a self-made man. He com- menced life empty-handed but has prospered since coming to this county, his l)usiness ventures have proved successful and he is now the owner of five hundred and sixty acres of land, all situated in Wall Township. On the 8th of November, 1860, Mr. Weaver led to the marriage altar Miss Nancy Snelling, who was born March 8, 1842, and is a daughter of John and Rebecca (Shaver) Snelling. Her father was born near Culpeper Court House, Va., March 11,1812, and was a carpenter and joiner by trade, but fol- lowed farming through much of his life. He came to Illinois in 1840, and in 184',>, attracted by the discovery of gold in California, went across the plains with an ox-team and remained on the Pacific slope for twenty-two months. The trip was very successful, and he returned home by way of the Pacific Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico and the Missis- sippi River. In politics, he was a Democrat. His wife is a daughter of David and Nancy (Grove) Shaver, both of whom were of German extraction. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Snelling were born three sons and three daughters, five of whom are yet living: Mrs. Weaver, of this sketch ; .fames, who resides in Wall Townshi|) and is represented elsewhere in this work; David, who is mairied and follows farming in La Salle County; Annis, wife of Hale Francis, a resident farmer of La Salle County; George, who was graduated from the Wesleyan Law School of rsioomington, is now married and en- gages in the practice of his |)rofession in Anthony, Kan. There are two children now deceased: Eliza- beth, who w.as educated in (Jalesburg, was a suc- cessful teacher and died at the age of thirty-eight; and Olive, who died in infancy. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Weaver h.as been born a son, John Henry, who aids his father in the operation of the home farm. He was educated in the public schools of Paxton, the Paxton Collegiate Institute, the Normal of that place, and in 1887 and 1888, was a student in the State Normal University. He has been one of Ford County's successful teachers and also taught in JIcLean County. He married Miss Allie Augustine, a native of Pontiac, 111., their union being celebrated Februaiy 23, 1892. The lady was educated in the Normal University of Normal and w.as a teacher of recognized ability. The young couple are people of high social stand- ing in the community. Mr. and Mrs. Weaver have also had Miss Lenora Gibson with them since she was five and a half years of age. .She is a most estimable young lady and is a member of the Meth- odist Church of Wall Township. The Weaver household is the aliode of hospital- ity and its members rank high in social circles for they possess that true worth of character which entitles everyone to respect. In his political affilia- tions, Mr. Weaver is a Democrat but has never been a politician in the sense of office-seeking. He cast his first Presidential vote for James Buchanan and his son voted first for Grover Cleveland and is a warm advocate of the Democracy. ILLIAM CYRUS WRIGHT, a member of w/ '''"^ '^"^ ^^ Cooper & Wright, dealers in ^^ lumber, of Roberts, was born in Brown County, Ohio, February 25, 1841, and is a son of James and Melinda (Bayne) Wright. The father was born in Biown County, Ohio, January 21, 1808, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 377 and in early life engaged in carding wool, but afterward turned his attention to farming, which occupation lie followed in Decatin, Ohio. In liS/il, he started Westward with his family, their destina- tion being Washington, III. Mr. Wright purchased one hundred and eighty acres of partially- improved land, but after some years removed to C'enterville, Iowa, in 1883. and his death occurred on the 1st of June, following. He always voted with the Re- pnltlican party and was a stalwart supporter of its principles. His wife was a member of the United Presbyterian Church. Siie was born September 14, 1810, and died at the age of seventj'-five years. Both patents were buried in C'enterville, Iowa. Their family numbered seven children, four sons and three daughters, six of whom are yet living: Carey C, a retired farmer who resides with his fam- ily in Ottawa, Kan.; Eleanor E., deceased; Samuel N., who is married and is foreman in the round house of the Texas & Pacific Railroad, his home being in Dallas, Tex.; William, of this sketch; Julia A., who is engaged in teaching; .lolin T., who fol- lows farming in South Dakota; and ]\Iargaret E., who is also living in Rapids Cit^'. Under the parental roof, our subject spent his boyhood days, leaving home on attaining his ma- jority. He was married October 17, 1876, the lad^y of his choice being Miss Jennie C. Wilson, a native of Allegheny County, Pa., and daughter of Samuel and Susan P. McCannahan. She is a well-educated lady and prior to her marriage engaged in teaching. Unto them were born five children: Julia B., who is studying music; Linnie P. and Morna E., who are attending school; Jesse M., who died at the age of four years; and Wilson Bayne, who completes the family. Prior to his marriage, Mr. Wright went to C'he- noa, in 1870, and engaged in farming in Yates Township, where he spent ten j'ears. He then re- moved to Gardner, (Jrundy County, 111., where he engaged in the lumber business with his uncle, M. Bayne. After one year he bought out his uncle's interest and carried on business alone very success- fully for five and a half years. He also had an in- terest in a lumber yard in Winona, 111. In 1887, he sold his business in Gardner to Harry Snyder, and on coining to Roberts bought out Lisk Bros., dealers in hardware, lumber, and furniture. He continued to operate in those lines until July, 1891, when he sold the hardware and furniture to Landel it Son and soon afterward admitted A. Cooper toi)artnerslii|) in the lumlicr business, whrle at the same time he purchased an interest in the agricultural implement business of Thompson & Co., Mr. Cooper being the company, and the firm of Coojier A Wright now deal in coal, lumber and agricultural implements. They also carry a full line of wagons, Iniggies, surreys, carriages, carts, etc. They have about « 10,000 invested, and are numbered among the leading and enterprising busi- ness men of Roberts. Their fair dealing and court- eous treatment have secured them a liberal patron- age. Mr. Wright is recognized .as one of the sub- stantial citizens of the communit}- and ranks high in business circles. - ^ ' ' y • I ' 6 •T^-pi-r^ HRISTIAN JACOB BUCHNER, an early settler of Ford County, and a leading ^^■' blacksmith of Gibson City, does general blaeksmithing, carriage and machinery repairing and horse shoeing. He w.as born in the State of Wurlemlierg, Germany, September 8, 1835, and is a son of Johannes and Christiana Buchner, both natives of that country. lie acquired his education and learned his trade in his native land, serving a regular apjirenticeship. On the 25th of December, 1854, Mr. Buchner emigrated to America, sailing from Antwerp in a sailing-vessel. They encountered several severe storms and after nsuch discomfort and considerable hardship, in a voyage of forty-five da^'S, they reached New York City. On arriving in the New World, Mr. Buchner found employment at his trade, working in JSTewark, N. J., until May, 1855, when he went to Northumberland, Pa., where he engaged in the same occupation for one year. In 185G, he removed to Chicago, being there emploj-ed for a year in Wright's Reaper Factory, where he made the first self-rake used in the country-. On leaving Chicago, he went to Champaign, where he was engaged in building cattle-guards from that 378 PORTRAIT AND EIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. city to Danville, on the line of the Great Western Railroad, now the main line of the Wabash. The winter of 1856-57, Mr. Buclmer spent in a shop at Homer, and the following spring went to Urbana, where for six months he worked in a machine shop. He then made his home in Big Grove, Champaign County, until Ma^' 23, 1858, when he located at Ten Mile Grove, Patton Town- ship, Ford County, and engaged as a journeyman in the blacksmith shop of AVilliam Trickel, and continued in his emplo.v one j^ear, when he bought out that gentleman and carried on business there for six years on his own account. From Ten Mile Grove, he went to Paxton, where he opened and ran a shop for four years. At the expiration of that time, he removed to Dix Township, where he purchased a farm, which he improved and culti- vated until April, 1873, when he came to Gibson City, engaging in his present business, and has since made that place his home. Mr. Buclmer was joined in wedlock, on the 12th of April, 1859, in Urbana, Miss Louise Lohmann becoming his wife. Mrs. Buclmer was born in Hanover, Germany, and is adaugliter of Christian and Caroline (Pieper) Lohmann. Her fatlier died in the old country, in 1857, and her mother, who came to the United States in 1863, lives in Cham- paign, ni., aged ninety-two years. Mr. Lohmann was a farmer by occupation. Mrs. Buclmer came to America with her brother in 1855, locating at Chicago. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Buchner were born six chil- dren, as follows: John W. died at the age of twelve 3'ears; Viola C. died in her second year; Louis A. is Secretary of the International Building and Loan Association of Gibson City; Charles died when fifteen months old; Edward F. is an in- structor in Yale University, and Minnie Etta is pursuing* post-graduate course in music in Gotts- chalk Lyric School at Chicago. Mr. and Mrs. Buchner are members of the church of United Brethren in Christ, and are act- ive workers in the Master's vineyard. In politics, he is a Republican, and while at Ten Mile Grove served as School Trustee for two terms, and since coming to Gibson City has been a member of the Village Board and has held the office of Trustee for five years in succession. He and his wife own a fine farm of three hundred and twent3- acres, situated in Dix Township. Mr. Buchner is widely and favorably known to the citizens of Ford and adjoining counties, as an industrious, hard-working man, who has, hj' the help of his wife, acquired a valuable property. He has always shown a warm interest in the growth and improvement of the town, and is highly esteemed by his fellow-citizens for his integrity' and honesty in all the affairs of life. In }-ears to come, his children and children's children may well point with pride to this record of the father, and also of the grandfather, who is entitled to the credit of being the founder of his family in America. €^ W?OHN P. SMITH is the senior member of the firm of Smitli & Ha|)l)ron, grain deal- ers of Roberts. He was born in Canada, .July 17, 1855, and is a son of James F. Smith, an honored pioneer whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work. He acquired his education in the common schools, after wliich he learned telegraphy and was employed as telegraph operator for about seven years in Cornland, 111., on the lUinoij Central Railroad. He commenced life empty-handed, having only an industrious dispo- sition and a pair of willing hands, but by his energy, good management and close application to business, he has won success. On the 6th of October, 1880, Mr. Smith married Miss Sarah N. Day, a native of Logan County, 111. Three children have been born unto them, but the son, Clyde, died at the age of nine years. The two daughters, Edna and Delia, twins, eight years of age, are attending school. The parents rank high in social circles and have many warm friends throughout the community. In politics, Mr. Smith has been a Republican since he cast his first Presidential vote for Ruther- ford B. Hayes. He has served as a member of the Town Council since its organization and is now President of the Board. He w.as one of the mem- bers who framed the constitution of the village of PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 379 Roberts. He has also been connected witli the School Board for some time and has done every- thing in his power for the educational, moral and social interests of the community. Himself and wife are members of the Methodist Church and take quite an active interest in its growth and upbuilding, lieing especially active in Sundaj'- school work. In the fall of l^M, Mr. Smith embarked in the grain business in Roberts, erecting a new elevator at a cost of ^4,000, and the annual shipments amount to one hundred thousand bushels. He has met with signal success in his undertakings and has won the confidence of all as an upright and straightforward business man. He also handles coal, both bituminous and anthracite. He owns a pleasant and commodious home on IMain Street, besides other property in Roberts and Lyman Townshi]), and is now in comfortable circum- stances. He is a worthy representative of an honored pioneer family and it is with pleasure that we present his sketch to our readers. ^^I@' •Q \^ RANZ GOTTLIEB LOHMAN, who has been prominently connected with the edu- cational interests of Ford County and is a prominent citizen of Roberts, was born of German parents in Watertown, Wis., January- 7, 1849. In the summer of 1851, when he was only a jear and a half old, Ijoth his parents died of cholera, which at that time raged with unparalleled fury. Young Franz was now left to the care of his grandfather, a widower. Without doubt he loved his grand- child dearly and cared for him tenderly, but he was of such a type that but few pleasures entered into the early life of the 3'oung lad. Indeed, it was the grandfather's ardent desire that Franz should become a German Lutheran minister. When our subject was nearly thirteen years old, his grandfather died, leaving some means which he had set aside for the education of his grandchild. He was accordingly sent to a select school for a j-ear and then entered the preparatory department of the Northwestern University of Watertown, an institution under the auspices of the Lutheran Synod of Wisconsin. Franz was bright and stud- ious and before he was seventeen years old he had successfully passed an examination for the fresh- man class, but the means for furthering his educa- tion being now exhausted, he seized upon this op- l>ortunitv as an excuse for discontinuing his studies fitting him for the ministry, as he was averse to making that profession his life work. So he left school, notwithstanding members of the faculty and private citizens proffered him aid. Mr. Lohinan now entered the field as a teacher, first in the primary department of a (4ei'man paro- chial school in Watertown, Wis., and afterward as a teacher in the grammar department of a German school in Milwaukee. His health liecoming im- paired, he returned to Watertown and accepted a position in a steam sawmill, where he had worked during vacations and in his bojhood days. In April, 1869, he was attacked with hip disease, which dislocated the hip joint and left him in a somewhat lame condition. Thinking that the climate in Wisconsin was too severe, he came to Ford C'ounty, III., where he worked upon a farm for several years. In August, 1878, Mr. Loliman was united in marriage to Miss Florence Belle McCann, and by their union have been born two sons and three daughters, namely: Sherrill B., Leona A., Howard A., Florence B. and Adelaide L. The parents are widely and favorably known in this community. In the fall of 1875, Mr. Loliman again entered the ranks of teachers and was exceptionally suc- cessful in his work. In .June, 1882, he received the nomination for Count}' Superintendent on the Republican ticket and was elected the following November by a large majority. Having faithfully served for four years, he was again elected in 1886. Politically, he had been a Republican, but when the tariff was made the issue, in 1888, he voted with the Democratic party, which drew upon him the hatred of the leaders of the party which had twice nominated and elected him. In 1890, he announced himself as an independent candidate for County Superintendent, and was endorsed by the People's Convention. Although the Republican majority is three to one, Mr. Loh- 380 PORTRAIT AND BIOGKAPHICAL RECORD. man was defeated by only twenty-five votes, which fact indicates his personal popularity, not- withstanding his withdrawal from the old partJ^ Since that time, he has withdrawn to private life. He is especially successful as an instructor and de- serves much credit for what he has done for the schools of Ford Countv. <| felLLIAM KEITZMANX owns and operates \/\j// two hundred acres of arable land on sec- W^ tion 9, Wall Township. His first purchase of land in this county consisted of one hundred and sixty acres but he has since bought an addi- tional forty-acre tract. His farm is one of the best in the neighborhood. On it is a pleasant home, good barns and other outbuildings and neat rows of liedge fence. He also has the latest improved machinery and other modern conveniences found upon a model farm of the nineteenth century. Our subject is one of the worthy citizens of Ger- man birth residing in Ford Count}-. He was born in Prussia, April 22, 1842, and is a son of Michael and Wilhelmina (Zabel) Keitzmann. His father followed farming throughout his entii'e life and died in the land of his nativity. His mother came to America in 1885, and spent her last da3'S in Roberts, Ford County. Both were members of the Lutheran Church. Of their seven children, Au- gust is now living in Germany; Julia is the wife of William Guderjahn, a farmer of Wall Township; William is the next younger; Lewis is employed in tlie tile factory in Melvin; Augusta is the wife of August Schultz, a farmer of Wall Township; Gus- tave is engaged in agricultural pursuits in the same township, and Emma is the wife of Gustavo Sabel, a resident farmer of L3'man Township, this county. All of the children were l)orn in Ger- many. The educational privileges which William Keitz- mann received were those afforded bj' the common schools of his native land, which he attended until fourteen j'cars of age, after which he worked as a farm hand. He was twent3'-seven years of age when he bade good-bye to his old home and, ac- companied by Lewis and Augusta, sailed from Hamburg to New York in 1868, where he arrived after nine days. He came on at once to Illinois and made a location in Marsliall Count}-, where he worked by the month for three years. He then rented land and engaged in fanning for himself for four years. In 1874, he purchased his present farm as before stated. It was then all raw prairie land and much of it was under water. Horses could swim where the tilled fields now are and one would not then have imagined that the ponds would be replaced by waving fields of grain. With $16, Mr. Keitzmann had begun life in Am- erica but he also possessed an indomitable will and energy and has thereby acquired a liaudsome com- petence. On the 26th of November, 1874, in La Salle Count}-, he led to the marriage altar Miss Emilia Schoenneshoefer, daughter of a German phj-sician. She was born in the Rhine Province of Prussia, November 26, 1854, and cnme to America in 1867. By their union have been born six children: Ilil- arius, who was born in La Salle Countj-; .Uilia, Otto, Freddie, Emaline, and William, deceased, at the age of five and one half years, all born in this count}'. The parents are members of the Lutheran Church and, in politics, Mr. Keitzmann is a Re- publican, having cast his first Presidential vote for Hayes. He has served as School Director and Com- missioner of Highways, also as Pathmaster, and proved an efficient and competent officer, faith- fully discharging his duties. ylLLIAM BOND, senior member of the firm of Bond & Reinhardt, druggists, is one of the leading business men of Roberts, and has been identified with the history of Ford County since 1864. A native of Manchester, Lancashire, England, he was born February 4, 1841, and is a son of Zacharia and Mary (Dixon) Bond. The family numbered nineteen children, of whom the following are yet living: .John, who IS married and follows fanning in Peach Orchard PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 381 Township; Mary, widow of John Stone, and a resident of England; Ellen, widow of Thomas Old- ham, residing in Roberts; Eliza, wife of Josej)h Bar- rington, a packer residing in Manchester; Will- iam, who is the eighteenth in order of birth; and James, who is married and is a veterinary surgeon, of Streator, 111. Tlie father was a native of Lancashire, England, and a cabinet-maker by trade. In 1859, he sailed from Liverjiool to Amer- ica, and after landing in New York, came to Illi- nois, locating in Streator, where he lived retired until his death at the age of sixty years. His wife died in her native land at about the age of tifty- six. Our sul)ject had only limited educational privi- leges, but tlu'ough his own efforts he liecame a well- informed man and has ever been a friend to tlie cause of education. In his youtli, he learned the trade of brick-making, and in September, 1858, in company witli his brother J.imes, bade adieu to his native land and crossed the Atlantic to Amer- ica. He went to Livingston County, 111., where he remained from 1858 until 1863, since which time he has been an honored resident of Ford County. His success in life has been due to his own efforts, and from an humble position he has worked his way ujiward to one of affluence. Mr. Bond has been three times married. His present wife l>ore the maiden name of Sarah Bar- nett. She is a native of Illinois, and their union was celebrated in 1873. Unto them have been born seven children, three sons and four daugli- ters, namely: Delia, wife of Henry Stcinman, a merchant; Fannie, William A., Arena, Edwin, Jessie and an infant. As before stated, Mr. Bond is engaged in the drug business. The firm of Bond & Reinhardt carrj' a full line of staple and fancy drugs, chemi- cals, oils, varnishes, fancy perfumes, brushes and a full line of wall-paper, paints, etc. Their busi- ness amounts to about $2,000 annually, and, in addition to this, Mr. Bond is a partner of William Halm in the wagon and f^arriage making business. They repair both spring and lumber wagons and buggies and have a good trade. Our subject owns two hundred and sixty-four .acres of imi)roved land in Lym.an Townshi|). which yields a golden tribute to him and adds not a little to his income. He is an industrious, persevering and sagacious business man, and by close attention to business and fair and honest dealing has acquired a com- fortable competence. Mr. Bond cast his first Presidential vote for Al)raham Lincoln and has since been an ardent Republican. He takes considerable interest in political affairs, and by his fellow-citizens has been called upon to serve for six years as School Di- rector, and for three consecutive terms was unani- mously chosen Highway Commissioner. Socially, he is a member of Lyman Lodge No. 293, K. T., and serves as Inner Guard. (^^HE FORD COUNTY BANK, Thompson, (f((^^ Blackstock ifc Co., proprietors, successors to v>^^ the First National Bank of Paxton, is the oldest bank in the direct line in Ford County. This is a private banking house, doing a general lianking business, and is conducted under the man- agement of Robert and Ira B. Blackstock. The Ford County Bank was established, January 1, 1866, by S. J. Toy. In August, 1868, A. C. Thomp- son joined Mr. Toy, and the firm name was Toy & Thompson. On the 1st of November, 1871, the bank was converted into the First National Bank of Paxton, S. J. Toy, A. C. Thompson, Robert Blackstock, Edwin Rice and C. E. Henderson in- corporators. The capital stock was •t50,000. A. C. Thom[)son was made President and S.J. Toy, Cash- ier. In the spring of 1874, Mr. Toy sold his inter- est to J. M. Clevenger, and Robert Bl.ackstock be- came Cashier. The bank continued business until the 10th of February, 1876, when its proprietors closed it out by voluntary liquidation, after which A. C. Thompson, Robert Blackstock and William Blackstock organized the present Ford County Bank, of Thompson, Bl.ackstock & Co., successors to the First National Bank. Business was contin- ued under their management until April 15, 1883, at which time W. M. Blackstock withdrew from the firm. On the third of May following, Edwin Rice, a citizen of Paxton, bought an interest in 382 PORTEAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. the bank, which has continued with marked suc- cess to the present time, without cliange of firm name. Mr. Thompson and Mr. Rice are both now deceased, and the present proprietors are Mrs. A. C. Thompson, Mrs. Rice-Miles, R. Blackstock and I. B. Blackstock. The Ford County Bank has al- ways maintained its good name and is widely and favorablj' known as one of the solid financial in- stitutions of Eastern Illinois. ARMON STRAYER, who is living a retired life in Paxtou, is one of the well-to-do citi- zens of Ford Coiintj' and a man of promi- nence in the community. A native of Ohio, he was born in Fairfield County, September 20, 1820, and is a son of Jacob Straj-er. The family is of German descent and was founded in America at an early day by John Strayer, the great-grand- father of our subject, who left his native land and became a resident of Pennsylvania in his youth. In that State, he was married and from there re- moved to Virginia in 1782. The father of our subject was born in Berkeley County, Va., June 7, 1796, spent his boj'hood days in that State and when a young man went to Ohio, where he mar- ried Elizabeth Harmon, who was born in the Buck- eye State in 1803. Her father, Jacob Harmon, was also a native of Germany and came to the United States when a young man. He served as a soldier in the Revolutionarj' War and was taken prisoner at the battle of Monmouth, but succeeded in making his escape. Jacob Strayer and his wife began their domestic life upon a farm in (Jhio, and in 1824 removed to Indiana, locating in Fountain County. They settled in the wilderness, there developed a farm, and aided in the upbuild- ing and growth of that countj'. It was in 185-1 that Jacob Strayer brought his family to Illinois, locat- ing in what is now Ford County. He was one of the first settlers in Button Township, and there made a farm, upon which he resided until his death, which occurred January 3, 1869. His wife survived him for a number of years and died on the 22d of June, 1883. Thej^ were laid to rest in Mt. Olivet Cemetery' in Button Township. The subject of this sketch is the eldest in a fam- ily of five sons and four daughters who grew to mature years. The second in order of birth is Mary, wife of Moses Stroup, of Iroquois County; Susanna is the wife of Robert Robertson, of Foun- tain County, Ind.; ISIilton makes his home in But- ton Township; Elizabeth is the wife of David Robinson, a resident of Fountain County, Ind.; .John M. grew to manhood, married and reared a family, but is now deceased; Thomas B. has also passed away; Josephine is the wife of Joseph Har- ris, of Benton County, Ind.; and H. S., a resident of Paxtou, completes the family. No event of special impottanee occurred during the boyhood of our subject. He had but limited school privileges and spent his time in the usual manner of farmer lads, remaining under the par- ental roof until after he had attained his majorit}'. It was in 1851 tiiat they came to Illinois, locating first in Champaign Country, where he entered a quarter-section of land in the northeast portion of tiial county. Upon it he built a house, and broke and fenced about thirty acres of land. In 1855, he sold, and settled on land in Button Township, F"ord County, pre-empting a tract of one hundred and sixty acres. He afterward extended the boundaries of his farm by additional purchase, un- til he had three hundred and fifty acres, and made his one of the most desirable country homes in that part of the county. Mr. Stra3'er came to Illinois a single man but in 1858 returned to Fountain County, Ind., and on the 29th of November of that 3-ear led to the mar- riage altar Miss Martha McClure, daughter of Samuel and Anna (Watt) McClure, who settled in Ohio in an earl}' day. She was born in Ohio, but spent her maidenhood days in Indiana. They had four children but lost two in infancy. Thomas B. is the elder of the two living and Lizzie A., the younger, is the wife of J. C. Martin, of Paxton. They have two children, Willie H. and an infant daughter. Mr. Strayer continued to engage in agricultural pursuits until 1886, when he removed to Jackson County, ]\riini., and there opened up a farm which ..-™w-»s^ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 385 he carried on for about six years. He tlien sold that land and returned to Ford County, since which time he has made his home in Paxton, where he is now living a retired life. In politics, he was first a Wliig and ctist his first Presidential vote for Henry Clay. He then supported Martin Van Buren, but since the organization of the Re- publican party he has been fovuid in its ranks. For five years, he has served as Assessor of Button Township and in 18.58 was Assessor of Patton Township wlien it Iielonged to Vermilion Count}' and included all of what is now Ford County. He was also Highway Commissioner, and in eacli posi- tion that he h.as been called upon to fill he has proved an able and efficient officer. Tlic best in- terests of the community ever find in him a warm friend, and himself and wife are members of the Christian Church. He is now living a retired life in Paxton, enjoying a well-earned rest. =-^-^+^^ ~^ ON. .lOIIN H. COLLIER, the pioneer hard- ware merchant of Gibson City, has been a leading Inisiness man of that place since its inception. He was born in Sangerfield, Oneida County, N. Y., March 29, 1844, and is a son of Joseph and Mary A. (De Forrest) Collier. His father was born in Buckinghamshire, England, on the 3d of August, 1820, and was descended from an old English family of that region. When nine years of age, he emigrated with his parents to America, the family locating in Oneida County, N. Y., wiiere he was married and made his home. Five sons and two daughters were born unto Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Collier, of whom John II. is the eldest, and in order of birth the others are, .Tames, Chauncey, Scott, Sophia, George, Martha. James and Chauncey were soldiers of the late w.ar, mcm- bersof the Seventeenth Illinois Cavalry; Chauncey died in 1865 from wounds received on the field of battle; Sophia became the wife of Edward Leiber, of Antioch, Lake County, 111.; and Martha is the wife of Wall.ace Arnold, of Chicago. In 18.55, the fainilj- came to Illinois and settled on a farm in L.ake County, where the wife and mother died in 1860. The husband and father survives and re- sides with his son, John 11., in Gibson City. The subject of this sketch attended the district schools of Antioch, acquiring a good Finglish edu- cation. (Jn the 29th of July, 1862, when only eighteen years of age, he enlisted for the late war as a member of Company D, Ni: ety-sixth Illinois Infantry. The following year, he was promoted in regular order to be Second Lieutenant, First Lieu- tenant and Captain, a very high rank considering his j'outh. At the battle of Chiekamauga, on the 20th of September, 1863, he was wounded by a gun- shot in the left tliigli, and again at the battle of Nashville, December 1 G, 1864, by a gun-sliot wound in the left arm. His service was mostly in the Army of the Cumberland. He was mustered out of ser- vice in 1866. On his return to Illinois, Mr. Collier engaged in merchandising in Antioch, Lake County, where he continued to reside until 1871, which year wit- nessed his removal to Gibson, Ford County, where he, with II. J. Ring, opened the first hardware store in that place, later on purchasing Mr. Ring's inter- est, thereby becoming sole owner. With marked success, he has carried on business continuously since and has one of the most complete and well- iissorted stocks of goods in the way of general hardware and farm implements to be found in the county. In his political affiliations, Mr. Collier is a Re- publican and has held various public offices of honor and trust. In 1873, he was elected Supervisor for Drummer Township, was re-elected and served several consecutive years. He was a member of the first Board of Trustees of the town of Gibson, has served several terms since, and has been Presi- dent of the Board. In 1876, he w.as elected to the Thirtieth General Assembly of Illinois, was twice re-elected, serving in the Thirty-second and Thirty-third Assemblies, representing Ford and Livingston Counties. In 1888, he was elected a member of the State Board of Equalization for a term of four years. Ilis course in official life has ever been such as to win him the commendation of alU concerned and has gained him the respect of even his political enemies. .Sociall}-, Mr. Collier is a Knight Templar iVIason, belonging to Gibson 386 POETRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Lodge No. 733, A. F. & A. M., Gibson Chapter No. 183, R. A. M., and Mt. Olivet Commandery No. 38, K. T., of Paxton. He is also a member of Lott Post No. 70, G. A. R., of which he was First Commander. He also enjoys the distinction and honor of being a member of the military order of the Loyal Legion Commandery of Illinois. On the 5th of May, 1875, Mr. Collier wedded Miss Harriet McClure, who was born in McLean Count3-, 111., and is a daughter of Benjamin H. and PVances McClure. Two children were born of their union, a son and daughter: Ben, born October 1, 1878, and Kate, on the 25th of August, 1882. The lady is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Mr. Collier is interested in agricultural pursuits, as well as mercantile, and is the owner of a well- improved farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Drummer Township. In (jursuit of the hardware business, he ac(|uired a comfortable competence, for he has labored to please his customers, and his deal- ings have been characterized b\' honesty and up- lightness. Thus has he won a liberal and well- deserved patronage. J'J*'5''?''5" i if****!- "•5**j**5**{**^S^P*4*4*4f EREMIAH CLEM is a practical and pro- gressive agriculturist living on section 36, Button Township. He was born in Warren County, Ind., on tlie 25tli of September, 1850, and is descended from one of the old Revolution- ary heroes, his paternal grandfather, Henry Clem, having fought in the War for Independence. He removed from Butler County, Ohio, to Warren Count}', Ind., about 1830. Tlie father of our sub- ject, Abraham Clem, was born in the former county about 1826, and was therefore only four years old when he went to the Iloosier State. He there grew to manhood and married Margaret N. Stary, a native of Virginia, wlio came to Indi- ana when a young maiden, and there resided until after her marriage. Her father, Nicholas Star}', was one of the first settlers of Warren Count}'. After his marriage, Mr. Clem engaged in farming, and now resides upon a farm adjoining the old homestead. He has reached the age of sixty-six years and is living a retired life. In politics, he has long been a Democrat, but has never been an office- seeker, and himself and wife are members of the Methodist Church. Their family numbered five sons and three daughters, who grew to mature years, the eldest of whom, Israel, is now engaged in farming in Warren County; .leremiah is the next younger; Elmira is the wife of Peter Lowe, of AVarren Count}-; Cornelius is also an agri- culturist of Warren County; Louis makes his home in the same county; .losephiue is the wife of Ed Spencer, a farmer of Warren County; Charles aids in the operation of the old homestead in In- diana; and Mary completes the family. Jeremiah Clem, whose name heads this record, spent the days of his boyhood and youth in the county of his nativity, remaining witli his parents until after he had attained to mature years. He received tlie educational advantages afforded by the common schools, and after he had attained his majority began working upon a farm for himself. It was in the siniiig of 1871t that he first made his home in Illinois, locating in A'ermilion County. He there resided upon a farm for two years, after which he removed to Champaign County, where he purchased one hundred and twenty acres of land and upon tliat farm resided for about four years. On the exjiiration of that period, he came to Ford County and purchased one liundred and fifty-two acres of land — an improved farm, which is yet his home. He has since bought a tract of one hundred and twenty acres near Paxton, and a flfteen-acre tract of timber land, making in all an aggregate of two hundred and eighty-seven acres. He keeps his farm well improved, his fields are well tilled and he is a successful agriculturist. In Vermilion County, on the 29tli of December, 1878, Mr. Clem wedded Miss Maria E. Campbell, who was born in Fountain County, Ind., and, when a maiden of fourteen siunmers, went to Vermilion County, 111., in company witli her father, William Campbell, one of the substantial farmers of that county. Their union has been blessed with two children: Auiil and Orville B. The family is well and favorably known throughont this community, although their residence here covers a compara- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 387 tively short period. In politics, Mr. Clem has lieen a lifeloug Democrat anil takes a deep interest in ti\e success and growth of his party. He is one of the enterprising and substantial farmers of Ford County, and his sterling wortli and upright char- acter well entitle him to representation in this volume. SiIIE IIIRA3I SIBLEY ESTATE, of which William A, Bicket is general manager, is an important part of the original Sullivant purchase in Ford and Livingston Counties and comprises twenty-one thousand two hundred and seventeen acres, valued at $1,326,73,5, and is di- vided into one hundred and thirty-six well-im- proved farms. Each farm has a tasty, roomy and comfortable tenant house and suitable farm and outbuildings. AVell-im proved roads run on section lines, and many hedges mark farm boundaries, di- viding the land into farms of one hundred and sixty acres each. These farms are rented to a su- perior class of tenants on shares, or for cash rent, as the tenant may choose. Wlien on shares, the tenant gives for the use of the land two-fifths of the corn crop and one-third of the small grain and hay. The rents for the year 1891 amounted iu round numbers to $90,000. The crops of that year were represented by three hinidred thousand bush- els of corn, two hundred thousand bushels of oats, and seeds and other products not enumerated. Garden and field seeds are grown extensively but not so much so as during the life of the proprietor, who was one of the greatest seed-growers and deal- ers in the Union. The soil of these farms is a black prairie loam, very rich and fertile, and well adapted to general farming and stock-raising. A system of tiie drain- ing has been extensively adopted with marked success, and farms that were held at from $12 to $15 per acre in Mr. Sullivant's day are now worth from $60 to $80. Thirt^^ sections of the property are situated in the township of Sullivant. Ford County, and five sections in Fayette Township, Livingston County. The town of Sibley, .an in- corporated village of five hundred inhabitants, is situated in the township of Sullivant and in the geographical center of the estate. It is astation on the Wabash Railroad and is situated on the main line between Chicago and St. Louis, being one hundred anil three miles south of Chicago and one hundred and eight3'-two miles north of St. Louis. The railroad, then the Chicago & Paducah, was built to this point in 1873, since which time Siblej' has grown to be a thrifty and prosperous town. The village has three churches and four religious societies: the Methodist Episcopal, Swed- ish Evangelical Lutheran, German Lutheran and German Methodist. The town is noted for its ex- cellent schools. Social and secret societies are represented by the following-named: Masonic, Knights of Pythias, Modern Woodmen of America, Good Templars and the Clover Club. The town has a good hotel, several mercantile houses and two important manufactories: the Illinois Canning Works, which have a canning capacity of the pro- duct of one thousand acres of sugar corn, and the drain tile works that supply the farmers of the surrounding countiy with a very necessary article for improving their land. The Sibley property in- cludes the grain elevator, having a storage capac- ity of fifty thousand bushels and facilities for loading thirty cars a day, being the largest on the Wabash Railroad between Chicago and St. Louis, with one exception. The tenants of the Sibley estate are of various nationalities, Americans, Germans, Swedes, English, Irish and French being represented, and tiie total number included in the tenant population is about an even thousand. The educational wants of the farmers' families are provided for by ten good country schools which are conducted under the State laws as district schools and are governed Ity officers elected by the people. A beautiful and in- teresting feature of the Sibley landscape is the little lake adjoining the village, which is well stocked with fish and adds much to the attr.active- ness of the place. Under the careful and judicious management of Mr. Bicket, the estate has attained a degree of thrift that has not only brought profit and large increase in value to the owners but competence, 388 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD, comfort and contentment to the industrious and enterprisini"' tenants. It is safe to assert that tlieie is not another property of like extent on the face of the globe that is occupied under leases where the tenants are as prosperous, independent and contented as those on tlie Sibley estate. The causes for tliis happy result are easily discovered. First may be mentioned the wonderful richness and fertility of the soil, a plentiful sup|)ly of good water, cheapness of fuel and salubrity and health- fulness of the climate; secondly, the convenience to market; and last, but not least, the wise, liberal and judicious policy of the management, which af- fords every man a fair leturn for his labor and the advantages of schools and churches for his family. So popular have the leases of this property become that they are sought for as most desirable by the most respectable and worthy renters. For twenty years the manager has been weeding out the objec- tional)le tenants and supi)lying their places with the wortliy and desiralile lease-holder, until at this date the land is peopled by a model tenantry. The town contains a good library of well-selected books and many elegant works of art, and the High School can boast the most complete set of scientific ajiparatus for educational purijoses to be found in the county, all furnished through the liberality of Mr. Sibley and the efforts of the pu- pils, and should be credited to the broad-minded system of management, which has been so faith- fully and successfully carried out by the Board of Education. H ■ ■ ! I f ^ rf . * <* M ^ ' 'i'jOHN ORTLEPP is engaged in general merchandising in Roberts, and is recognized as one of the leading business men of the community. He was born in Hanover, Germany, May 14, 1841, and is the only son of Johann and Elizabeth (Busch) Ortlepp. They had one daughter, however. May, who married A. Greenfeldt, a boot and shoe maker b}' trade, and is now deceased. Johann Ortlepp w.as born in December, 1H17, was a basket-maker by trade and a fine workman in that line. In 1872, accompanied by his wife, a native of Hanover, he sailed from Bremen to New York City and came at once to Illinois. He located in Iroquois County, but after a year came to this county and has since made his home with his son John. He is a member of the German Lutheran Church, to which bis wife also belonged. Her death occurred in Roberts in 1882. Our subject learned the butcher's trade in his youth and was .also a sailor. While on the high seas he visited St. Petersburg, London, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Holland, Belgium, France, Spain, Portugal, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. He fol- lowed a sea-faring life for nine years and during all that time was never ship-wrecked. In the fall of 1871, he bade adieu to his native land and once more crossed the briny deep, sailing from Liver- l)Ool to New York City. He came at once to Livingston County, 111., where he began husking corn at $1 jier day. In June, 1872, he resumed his old trade of a butcher and after working at Fairbury for fifteen months, came to Roberts, where he has since made his home. At that time there were only four stores in the village. For a, year he was emi)Ioyed in a warehouse and in 1873 began business for himself as a butcher, continuing in that line until 1887, when he added a stock of groceries and attended to both branches of trade. He has recently purchased a stock of hardware and a stock of furniture, and has already secured a liberal patronage from tlie people of Roberts and the surrounding community. Mr. Ortlepp was married, June 28, 1884, to Miss Emma Twarnoske, a native of Germany. Her parents were natives of the same place and now reside with their daughter. Five children have been born unto our subject and his wife: Lizzie, Mary, Alma, Ida and Lena. The parents are both members of the Lutheran Church, to the support of which they contribute liberally, and they have also given of their means to other enterprises of interest calculated to ui>build the community and promote the general welfare. In politics, Mr. Ortlepp is a Democrat. He has now been a resident of Ford County for many years. He came with a cash capital of about i<80() and is now the owner of a large general mercantile establishment, and in connection has one hundred PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 391 and sixty acres of valuable land and his pleasant and commodious home located on Maple fStreet. He is truly a self-made man. liy the exercise of good business principles, supplemented by indus- try and perseverance, he has acquired a handsome property, and tlie prosperity wiiich has crowned his efforts is certainly well deserved. He is now numbered among the substantial citizens of the community and it is with pleasure that we present this record of his life to our readers. ■^S* EMANUEL LOWRY, editor and proprietor of the Gibson Courier, is a resident of Ford ,. County and has made Gibson City his home since 1875. He was born in ^Somerset County, Pa., January 22, 1837, and is a son of Michael and Salome (Moyer) Lowry. The parents were Ijoth natives of Pennsylvania and passed away in that State, greatly beloved by all who knew them. Emanuel Lowry received his primary education in the common schools of his native count}' and afterward took a classical course in Bethany Col- lege, in West Virginia, graduating in the Class of '66. lie served a regular apprenticeshij) to the printer's trade in Somerset, Pa., and then spent some years teacliing in the public and normal schools of the county. In 18G0, he went to Beth- any, W. Va., where he followed the occupation of printing, devoting his leisure hours to study, and 111 this way working his way through college. In 1870, he left Bethany and bought a half-interest In a paper in Wadsworth, Ohio — the Wadsworth £!ii- terprise, with whicli he was connected for one year. He then sold out and came to Illinois, settling at P'ureka, and there purchased the Eureka Journal, in .January, 1872. He conducted tliat paper for tliree years, and in 1875 came to Gibson, purchas- ing the Courier, which he has since carried on, with the exception of one year, 1884-85, which he spent at Pontiac, 111., where he bought a half- interest in the Pontiac Senlind, which lie still holds. The SvnUnel is the leading Rei)ublican paper in Livingston County and is very ably and well conducted. A marriage ceremony performed on the 24th of September, 1862, in Somerset, Pa., united the des- tinies of MissPluebe Colliorn and Mr. Lowry. Tlie lady is a daughter of Sylvester and Olive Col- born, and was born in Somerset County, Pa. She was a sucessful teacher in the public schools of her native county at the time of her marriage, oc- cupying a front rank in her profession, and is a lady of culture and fine literaiy taste, a true helpmate to her husband in his literary work. Unto ]Mr. and Jlrs. Lowiy have been born seven children, but two died in infancy, and one daugh- ter, Emil}', died at the age of twenty- j'ears. The living are: diaries E., who is in the Courier office with his father; James P. and John A., who are students in the University of Illinois at Cham- paign, 111.; and Russell, the youngest of the famil}'. Mr. Lowry and liis wife are members of the Christian Church and take an active interest in its work. The}- are botli members of the Society of Royal Templars of Temperance, and in active sympathy with every movement which has for its object the moral and intellectual uplifting of so- ciety. Mr. Lowry is an experienced and success- ful journalist, and in his hands the Courier has been a potent f.actor in the development of good moral sentiment in tlie community and in promot- ing the cause of temperance. His outspoken ad- vocacy of temperance sentiment in his paper has done much to crystallize public sentiment against the saloon and drive it from the community in which he makes his home. The good effects of his teaching and example will live after him. f^-_^ UGH MEHARRY was born in Connellsville, Pa., February 12, 17!I7, and the next year moved with his parents to Adams County, Ohio, where he resided until 1828, when he married Miss Susan Ambrose and at once moved to Montgomery County, Ind., near Shawnee Mound, where he and his new bride settled for life. By Industry and economy and the great oppor- tunity there offered for buying land of a superior 392 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD, quality very cheap, he amassed a large fortune. His father died before he left Ohio. About two years after the son removed to Indiana, his mother also moved from the Buckeye State with six other sons and one daughter, and settled at Shawnee Mound, near Hugh. The sisters and brothers all married and settled in the neighbor- liood, and, like Hugh, were very prosperous, and became wealthy, notwithstanding their large dona- tions to colleges, churches and benevolent institu- tions. Prominent among our subject's philanthropic deeds was the endowing of a professorship in the Central Tennessee College, iu Nashville. He also contributed largely to the building and endowing of the Illinois Wesleyan University, of Blooming- ton, 111. When this part of Illinois was comparatively new, 3Ir. Meharry came here and secured a large amsL/C'X> ■SO~ I? EWIS E. ROCKWOOD, Assistant Cashier of Co., of Gibson City, has been an employe of that company, as book-keeper and assistant cashier, continuous!}' since 1883. Mr. Rockwood was born in La Salle County, 111., October 15, 1855, and is a son of .lohn A. and Sarah J. (Lewis) Rock- wood. In 1863, he removed with his parents to Normal, this State, and there received his educa- tion in the |Hiblic schools, completing his literary studies in the High School. He came to Gibson City in 1872, wlien it was but a hamlet of a year's growlli, and made his home with his parents on a farm in Drummer Township until 1880, since which time he has resided in the city. During the years of his residence on the farm, he engaged in agricultural |)ursuitsand in teaching school, having taught in all nine terms. The two years just pre- ceding his coming to Gilison, he devoted his time almost exclusively to teaching, and was very suc- cessful in that occupation. Until 1883, he wasem- plojed as a book-keeper by a Gibson grain firm, and at the expiration of that time, lie entered upon the duties of his present position in the bank. Mr. Rockwood has been twice married, the first time in Paxton on the 10th of July, 1884, to Miss Florence Moffett, a daughter of S. R. Moffett. Mrs. Rockwood was born in Indiana, and accompanied her parents to Paxton in childhood. She was called to her final rest on the 1st of November, 1885, and her death was deeply mourned by a large circle of friends and acquaintances. On the 9th of May, 1889, Jlr. Rockwood was united in marriage in Gibson to his present wife, whose maiden name was Ida Baird. Mrs. Rockwood is a native of Illinois, born in McLean County, and is a daughter of W. .1. Baird. of Gibson Cit}-. One child graces this union, a son, Roscoe, who was born in Gibson, Febru.ary 20, 1890. In politics, Mr. Rockwood easts his vote with the Democracy, and is a stalwart supporter of the i)arty principles. He has been a member of the Village Board two terms, and now holds the position of President of the City School Board. He and his wife hold membership with the Methodist Church, and are earnest Christian people. Our subject is a Knight Templar Mason, belonging to Gibson Lodge No. 733, A. F. & A. M.; to Gibson Chapter No. 183, R. A. M.; to Gibson Council No. 72; and to Mt. Olivet Cominandery No. 38, K. T., of Paxton. He was ISIaster of his lodge in 1877, 1878 and 1879, and is an active member of the fraternity. Mr. Rockwood h.as now been emplojcd in the bank of Mattinson, Wilson A' Co. for nearly ten 3'ears, and has, by the strict and faithful discharge of the duties of his position, grown in favor with the firm, and is honored with their confidence and trust. His services in the School Board have ^~e.-'^^^*~\^ ^^/Ck. ^^^t7- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 397 helped to advance the educational interests of the city, which are now grown to important dimen- sions, while his courteous liearing- and e-orroct busi- ness methods in the discharge of liis duties at tlie bank liave won for him the respect and c<.inlidence of its patrons. •!'==:^*=4' ;yv ETKR LAlvSUN (deceased) was tlie pioneer merchant tailor of Paxton, and the founder of the clothing house of Peter Larson it Co., the largest mercantile liouse in Ford County. He was born in Olmstad, .lonkopings l>an, Sweden, December 12, \S'd'S, was reared and educated in his native country and there learned the tailor's trade. In 1854, he emigrated to America and made his first location in Attica, Ind., wliere he was engaged in business and where lie was married, in 1857, to Miss Lavisa Gustafson, a daugliter of Jacob tJustafson. Tlie lad^' was born in Linderas, Sweden, and came to America in 1853. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Larson was blessed by a family of six children, four of wliom are yet living: Charles Albert, the eldest, is now at the liead of the mercantile house of P. Larson & Co., of Paxton, with branch stores at Gilison City and Watseka. Jacob Theodore wedded Kmily Peterson, and conducts the Gibson store. Peter Edward is the resident partner and manager of the branch store in Watseka. Kmil and Ida Ottilia died in infancy; and Ida Ottilia, tlie second of tliat name, resides with her motlier in Paxton. In 1864, Mi'. Larson came to Paxton and en- gaged in merchant tailoring, also doing business as a dealer in ready-made clothing, in company with William Liudberg and John Nelson, under the firm name of Lindberg, Larson & Nelson. From 1870 until 188.3, lie was alsne in business and suc- ceeded in building up a large and successful trade. In October of the latter year, he sold out to his sons, C. Albert and J. T., and C. A. Englund, the firm name of P. Larson & Co. being retained for business advantages. In 1887, a younger brother, Peter E., became a member of the firm and, with 17 those above named, constitute the companj'. This house does a general trade .as merchant tailors and dealers in ready-made clothing and gents' furnish- ing goods and the aggregate business of the three stores amounts to an even ^100,000 annu.ally. The firm has succeeded to the good-will of the custom- ers of Peter Larson and still maintains the reputa- tion of the house for selling good goods and for fair and honest dealing. While they have the largest trade of any house in their line in Ford County, they also enjoy a corresponding popular- ity. The branch store at Gibson City was opened February 27, 1887, and tliat at Watseka in August, 1891. Charles Albert Larson was born in Attica, Ind., F'ebruary 1, 1859, came to Paxton, III., with his parents in 1864, was educated in the public schools, and received liis business oducaticm in his father's store, beginning when he was but thirteen j-ears old. In October, 18«3, he became the head of the house as previously stated. He was married in Paxton, on the 13th of .lanuary, 1887, to Miss Annie Larson, who was born in Chicago and is a daughter of Andrew Larson. Tiie3' have one child, a son, Clarence Raymond, who was born March 12, 1888. Mr. Larson and his wife are members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church and by his ballot he supports the Republican party. He is also a Di- rector in the F^irsl National Hank of Paxton and is accounted one of the foremost business men of the citj'. l^+^i OIIN NEWMAN is a member of the firm of Newman it Peterson, undertakers and deal- ers in furniture, of Paxton. lie is a native of Denmark, his birth having occurred on the 6th of March, 1848. His parents, Hans and Cecelia Newman, who were also natives of the same countrj', are both deceased. lie was reared to manhood in his native land, acfpiired his educa- tion in its public schools and learned the trade of a machinist, at which he worked until 1869, when he determined to seek his fortune in Ameriga, 398 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRArHICAL RECORD. Bidding good-bye to home and friends, he crossed the Atlantic and came direct to Illinois, locating in Kankakee. He remained there, however, only a short time, after wliicli he went to Wilmington, where he was employed in cabinet-making. Later, he returned to Kankakee, and thence came to Pax- ton in 1871. Ills residence in this city, therefore, covers a period of twenty-one years. In 1873, he formed the existing partnership with J. Peterson. This is the oldest house in their line of business in the count}' seat and one of the most popular in the county, as their customers can always depend on getting well-made goods at reasonable prices. On the 12th of March, 1874, Mr. Newman was united in marriage to Miss Anna Nelson, the wed- ding being celebrated in this city. The lady is a native of Denmark and a daughter of Nils Nelson. Five children have been born of their union, two sons and three daughters: Jolin C, Cecelia, Ileniy, Hazel and Leta, all born in Paxton. Mr. Newman and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church. In politics, he is a supporter of Republican principles, having afliliated with that party for many years, and is a member of the Paxton Board of Education. He also belongs to Paxton Camp, Modern Woodmen of America. The firm of Newman & Peterson has now been in busi- ness nearly twenty years, without change, and is classed as one of the successful houses of Paxton. They are enjoying a well-deserved prosperity, which is the reward of industry, perseverance and earnest and well-directed efforts. =1***+^ "^ OHN S. JOHNSON, a farmer residing on sec- tion 26, Patton Township, is a native of Sweden, his birth having occurred on the 10th of August, 1841. His father, Jonas Johnson, was also born in that country, there grew to manhood, was married, reared his family and spent his entire life. Our subject was the only son and the youngest child in a family of nine chil- dren. He remained in his native land until fi'fteen years of age, spending the greater \)a.rt of his time in school, where he acquired a good education. It was in 1856 that he emigrated to America in com- pany with his married sister and her husband. They sailed from (Jottenburg in June, and after seven weeks spent on the bosom of the Atlantic, arrived at Boston in the latter part of July. On the loth of August following, the_v reached La Fay- ette, Ind., where Mr. Johnson joined a brother- in-law, and worked for about a year and a half to pay for his passage to this country. He also at- tended school in the winter seasons for a time, and remained in La Fayette for about thirteen years. The year 1869 witnessed liis arrival in Illinois, and saw him a resident of Ford County. In this count}', in October, 1879, Mr. Johnson w.is married, the lady of his choice being Miss So- phia Johnson, wiio was also a native of Sweden, and when a young lady came to this country, mak- ing her home with a sister in Paxton. Unto them have been born five chihlren: Helen R., at home; Eva, Hannah and Norma, who are attending the home school; and Otto S., the youngest of the family. For several years after locating in Ford County, l\Ir. Johnson rented land, I)ut at length, having ac- cumulated some capital through his industr}' and economy, he purchased a part of the farm on which he now resides. This was in 1874. He became the owner of one hundred and twent^'-one acres, and with characteristic energy be began its cultiva- tion and improvement. The boundaries of his farm he has since extended by an additional purchase of eighty acres, making in all two hundred and one acres of valuable land which pays a golden tribute to the care and labor he bestows upon it. It is all under a high state of cultivation and well im- proved. There is a good home and other neces- sary buildings, and the owner is regarded as one of the substantial farmers of Patton Township. Mr. Johnson is a man who takes an .active inter- est in all that pertains to the welfare of the com- munity in which he resides, and is a true friend to all educational and moral interests. He has been honored with several local offices of trust, and to those who know him it is needless to say that, his duties were ever faithfully performed. Himself and wife are church members, and are well and favorably known throughout this community. Mr, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 399 Johnson is a self-inade man. At the early age of fifteen years he began life for himself and worked his way upward, overcoming all dilliculties and obstacles in his path. He may well be proud of liis success, which has licen achieved by his own un- aided efforts. rise. Mr. Strong is a native of Indiana, his birth hav- ing occurred in jMoni'oe County, .January 1',), 1836. The family is of Irish descent and the original ancestors were among the first settlers of the Fair- field district of South Carolina, wheie Samuel M. Strong, father of our subject, and Robert Strong, the grandfather, who served in the War of 1812, were born. The maternal grandfather, .lolin Weir, was also a native of South ("arolina, and his 400 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAIHICAL RECORD. daughter Lutecia, who was born in the Chester district, became the wife of Samuel Strong. After their marriage they removed to Indiana, becoming honored pioneers of Monroe Count\'. They set- tled in tlie wilderness and in the midst of the for- est Mr. Strong developed a farm which he made his home until his death in 185.5. His wife sur- vived him about twenty years, passing away in 1874. In the family were six sons and two daugh- ters, who grew to manhood and womanhood, the eldest of whom is Robert; .lohn enlisted for the late war in the Eight3'-second Indiana Infantry, was taken sick and died in the service in Tennessee, August 4, 1863; .James died in Indiana, in 1890, leaving a family; .Jennie died in earl>' womanhood; William B. is a resident farmer of this county; Rev. Charles S. is the minister of the United Pres- b^'terian Church in Lawrence, Kan.; Samuel W. is engaged in agricultural pursuits in Monroe Count}', Ind., and Sarah, widow of .John Harris, resides in Colorado. The childhood and youtii of our subject were spent upon his father's farm in the county of his nativ- ity. As soon as old enough, he aided in its opera- tion and his training at farm labor w.as much more extensive than that received in tiie school room, his educational advantages being very meagre. After arriving at years of maturity, he remained upon tlie farm with his mother for a time, after which he was joined in wedlock to Miss Martha .J. Miller, daughter of .James Miller, a native of South Carolina, and a pioneer of Mon- roe County, Ind. Their union was celebrated on the 13th of October, 1859, and unto them have been boin four sons who are yet living: Samuel O., who operates a farm adjoining tiiat of his father; .James, who follows agricultural pursuits in Iroquois County; .John T., a farmer residing with his father, and Charles D., a lad of twelve years, attending the home school. For five years after his marriage, Mr. Strong followed farming in Monroe Ctuuity, and in 1864 came to Ford County, 111., since which time he has resided on the farm which now yields to him a golden tribute for the care and cultivation he be- stows upon it. He started out in life empty- l)ande^^<^ -J— JAMES D. H'DLOW, in wliose honor the village of Ludlow, 111., was named, was born at Ludlow Station, Hamilton County, Ohio, in the old block house that was built by his ancestors in the pioneer days of Cincinnati, when it was necessary to guard against the attacks of hostile Indians. The paternal grandfather of our subject drew the chain in the survey for the original plat of Cincinnati and erected the l)lock house alluded to above. It continued to be the home of his children and grandchildren for many years. The site of the old house was within tiie limits of what is now the Twenty-fifth Ward of Cincinnati, and the station established there bears the family name of Ludlow. The subject of this sketch was reared and edu- cated in Hamilton County and on attaining man- hood was emplo3'ed on Covernment surveys in Tennessee. In 1856, he came to Illinois and lo- cated in Champaign County, within about six miles of Paxton. There he established his home and engaged in farming. In 1862, he returned to Ohio, and was united in marriage with Miss Susan Middlecoff, a daughter of Daniel Bliddlecoff, and a sister of the Hon. J. P. Middlecoff, of Paxton. Mrs. Ludlow was born in Lebanon, Ohio. After their marriage, the young couple came to Illinois and occupied the home Mr. Ludlow had pre- pared in Champaign County. In the course of time, a village, with post-oflice, church and schools, developed at the site of his settlement and was given the name of Ludlow, by which it is still known. Two sons and five daughters were born unto Mr. and Mrs. Ludlow: Samuel, the eldest, who married Miss Adella Martin, a daughter of .James Martin, IS a resident of Paxton, wliere he is en- , gaged in the insurance business; Belle died at the age of three j-ears; Theresa is the wife of John L. Benedict and their home is in Indianapolis, Ind.; Edmund, who is single and resides in Paxton, was named for Edmund Ludlow, one of the regicides of King Charles I, of England, and a memlier of the Ludlow family prior to the settlement of the Ainciican branch in the New World; Charlotte died in infancy; Catherine is single; Clara, the youngest, died in infancy. Mr. Ludlow was engaged in farming and stock- raising in Cliampaign County until 1883, when he removed to Paxton and made that city his home until his death, which occurred on the Dth of Oc- tober, 1886. He was a Republican in politics and a consistent member of the Christian Church, held in the higliest regard by all who knew him. i\Irs. Ludlow survives her husband, and still resides in Paxton, where she is most highly respected. Mr. Ludlow was a man of most excellent character and unquestioned integrity and long before mov- ing to Paxton was well and favorably known to the old settlers of Ford County. - <><• - cvo \T AMES II. FLAGG, a prominent citizen of Ford County, now living a retired life in Clarence, was born in Maine, July 29, 1822. The founder of the family in America was the Rev. Mr. Flagg, who emigrated from England, his native land, and became a pioneer Episco))alian minister of New Hampshire, where he reared his famil}'. His son James, grandfather of our sub- ject, was a youth when he crossed the broad At- lantic. The father, Henry Flagg, wasltorn in New Hampshire in 1784, and was one of a family of two sons and two daughters. In Warren, Me., he mar- ried Sarah OIney Head, daughter of Col. Henry A. Head, a wealth}- and prominent merchant of War- ren, and a native of England. He located in Waldoboro, Me., where he carried on business for a quarter of a century, after which he lived a retired life in Bangor. His death occurred in 1878, at the advanced age of ninety-four years. His wife survived hiin two 3'ears and passed away 406 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD, in 1880, at the age of eighty-seven. Both lie buried in Mt. Hope Cemeter}", where a monu- ment marks their last vesting place. Mr. Flagg was a ver}' active and successful business man and accumulated considerable propertj'. He lived an upright life and was a consistent member of the Congregational Church, to the support of which he also coutril)uted liberall3'. In the Flagg family were six children who grew to mature jears: Frances Maria, who became the wife of Frederick A. Jarvis, of Castine, Me., but is now deceased; Henrj' J., who was engaged in merchandising in Chicago and died in that city in 1866; James H., of this sketch; Kdmund W., who engaged in the practice of law in Bangor, Me., until his death, when he was laid by the side of his parents in Mt. Hope Cemetery; William H., a retired merchant, of Bangor; and Arthur, an honored pioneer of Ford Count}', now deceased. We now take up the personal history of Mr. Flagg, whose name heads this record. With his parents lie went to Bangor when a lad of nine summers and in the public schools acquired a good education, which was supplemented by a two years' course of stud}' in South Boston. He afterward entered the store of his brother and engaged in clerking for two years, but becoming tired of that life, he shipped as a common sailor before the mast and followed the high seas for a period of ten 3'ears. He won promotion and finallj' became master of a vessel, sailing as such for two years. During liis experience as a sailor, he visited many of the ports of Europe, made twelve voyages to the West Indies and sailed around Cape Horn on the Pacific Ocean to California. This was in 1849, and the gold fever was then at its height. On arriving at San Francisco, the entire crew left the ship, Mr. Flagg with the rest, and with others he went to Sacramento and on to Bear River, where he spent about a month. He then went to Telona, where the first discovery of gold was made, and there found einplo\'njent as the keeper of a toll gate at a good salary and continued that occupation for about a year and a half. Ill 1852, Mr. Flagg returned to his family in Bangor. In Surry, Me., on the 6th of November, 1846, he had wedded Miss Mar}' Ann, daughter of Capt. F. A. Garvis, who was captain of a Govern- ment revenue cutter. He left liis wife in Bangor while he followed the sea and during his stay on the Pacific slope. After his return, he removed with his family to Buffalo, N. Y., where with an older brother he engaged in merchandising untQ 1857. He then emigrnted to Wisconsin and pur- chased a tract of land in the town of Mt. Pleasant, Racine County, where he first engaged in agricul- tural pursuits. After two years he sold out his interest there and came to Illinois in 1850, settling in Button Township, Ford County. He first pur- chased eighty acres of land, and when he had it under cultivation bought an adjoining eighty- acre tract. He built a substantial and pleasant residence, good barns and other necessaiy build- ings, and is the owner of one of the desirable places in that township. At length he determined to lay aside all business cares, and, in 1889, went to Clarence, where he is now enjoying the rest wliich lie has so truly earned and richlj' de- serves. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Flagg were born eight chil- dren: Frances Maria, wife of AV. T. Patton, a sub- stantial and prominent farmer and stock dealer of this county; James W., a prosperous agriculturist of Vermilion County; Ella, wife of W. H. Goodwin, an enterprising farmer of Button Township; Charles H., a merchant of Clarence; Carrie L., at home; Frederick E., a substantial farmer of Button Town- ship; Lyman, who also follow.s that pursuit in this county; and Edmund, who is a graduate of the Chicago School of Pharmacy and is now employed in Paxton. Mr. Flagg has been identified with the Repub- lican party since its organization, having supported each Presidential nominee from Gen. John C. Fremont to Hon. Benjamin Harrison. He has tiiken quite a prominent part in public affairs and has served as a delegate to the county, district and State conventions. He has held the office of Commissioner of Highways, was Assessor of But- ton Township for several years, was a member of the County Board of Supervisors for five years and its chairman f(ir two years and is now Justice of the Peace of Button Township. The cause of education finds in him a warm friend. He believes PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD 409 in hiring competent teachers in order to have good schools and, while serving as a member of the School Board, did effective.service along that line. Himself and wife are among the original mem- bers of the Pleasant Grove Methodist Church and are active workers in its interest. His life has been well and worthily spent and it has also been a prosperous one. At the same time that he was winning his competence he was also gaining the high regard of those with whom he was brought in contact and none are more favorably known in this comnuinitv than James H. Flagg. ylLLIAM B. HOLMES, a prominent citizen of Ford Count3', now living a retired life in Melvin, 111., was born in Derltyshiie, England, September 23, 1820, on a farm which had been in the Holmes family for four hundred years. His father, AVilliam Holmes, Sr., who followed agri- cultural pursuits, married Miss Mary Woniack. Seven children graced their union, as follows: John, who died March 9, 1881; Lizzie, wife of Aaron Fletcher; Jane, deceased, wife of William Green; Charles, a carpenter, now living a retired life in Danville; William, of this sketch; and Henry also deceased. The father died December 15, 185',), and the death of his wife occurred in 1842. The}' were both members of the Methodist Church. The boyhood days of our subject were spent upon the farm, and at the age of fifteen, his father apprenticed him to a coach-maker for a term of six years, during which he received no wages. He continued that work in Ilngland until 1849, when, with the hope of meeting a more successful busi- ness career, he crossed the Atlantic on a sailing- vessel from Bristol to New York Citj', accompanied b}' his brother Charles. Forty-nine days they were upon the bosom of the Atlantic, and then landed at their destination. Jlr. Holmes started for the West by way of AUiany, Buffalo and the Lakes, and, locating in Milwaukee, began working in a sash and door factory, where he was employed for a short time. Having purchased forty acres of Government land in Fond du Lac County, Wis., which was covered with heavy timber, he began the development of a farm. He built a small log cabin, bought a team of unbroken oxen, and made his first attempt at agriculture. He cleared several acres of his land, placed it under cultivation, and at length sold, removing to Georgetown, Vermilion County, 111., in 1852. His brother Charles was liv- ing there, and with him he engaged in carpenter work until 1855, when he came to what is now Ford County, but was then Vermilion County, and purchased three hundred and twenty acres of Gov- ernment land on section 27, of what is now Peach Orchard Township. He liroke ten acres and made other improvements, including the erection of a house, after which he returned to Georgetown, and two years later, in 1857, brought his family to the home which he had prepared for them. i This family were the first white settlers in that township. They experienced many of the hard- ships and privation of pioneer life, but as years passed by, all these obstacles were overcome, and the pioneer home, once unadorned by scarcely more than the necessities of life, was provided with its comforts and many of its luxuries. About the time of Mr. Holmes' coming, Joshua Nicholson also settled in that community, bringing with him about one thousand peach sprouts, which he set out on his new farm, and thus the name of Peach Orchard was given to the township. On the 26th of December, 1844, Mr. Holmes w.is united in marriage with Miss Eliza, daughter of William and Sarah D. (Bennett) Wrenn. Her fa- ther, who was born in the city of Gloucester, Eng- l.and, was a professor of music, and a descendant of Christopher Wrenn, the great architect of Lon- don, who built St. Paul's Cathedral and many other noted buildings. In the Wrenn family were eight children: William, who died in 1845; Ann, who became the wife of James Thorn, died in 1860; Henry, who occupies a Government posi- tion in London; Eliza, wife of our subject; and Alfred, a resident of Chicago; the other three died in infancy. The father died in 1855, and the death of the mother occurred in 1844, and both are buried at Bristol, England. Mrs. Holmes was born in Bristol, England, October 5, 1820. 410 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Holmes were born ten chil- dren: Henry, who died in 1845; Bart, whoengages in buying and shipping horses in Melvin, was born in Crewe, Clieshire, England; Lizzie, who died in 1852; Henry C. died aged twenty-one years; Will- iam, an attorney-at-law, of Ellingham, 111.; .John W., who runs a dray and express line in Omaha, Neb.; Fannie, the first native white child in Peach Orchard Township, who was born May 29, 1857, is now the widow of Paul Koestner, and a resident of Melvin; Mary, who died in 1887; Sarah E. and Alfred L., both of whom died in infancy. The children were all reared on the old homestead farm, and those younger than Bart were born on this side of the Atlantic. Mr. Holmes there continued to reside until 1888, when he removed to Melvin, where he is now liv- ing a retired life. He still owns the farm upon which he located in 1857. To its early settlers the county is indebted for much that it is to-day. Among these is our subject, who has long been iden- tified with its history. He resided in Peach Orch- ard Township for ten ^-ears before there were set- tlers enough in the town to organize a Board of Directors. He was one of its first Supervisors, was Township Assessor, Highway Commissioner, School Trustee, and for about fourteen years served as Justice of the Peace. In politics, he is a Democrat, and a strong supjiortei' of party principles. He attends the Congregational Church, of which his worthy wife is a faithful member. Throughout Ford County, Mr. Holmes has a wide acquaintance and is highly esteemed by all who know him for his sterling wortli and the upright life which he has ever led. -^] -^} ^+^[ ylLLIAM T. PATTON, farmer and stock- dealer, resides on section 33, Button Town- ship, his post-ofiice being Clarence, 111. He is a native of Indiana, born in Fountain County, October 20, 1845, and is a son of David and Jane Patton, who were among the pioneers of this county', and whose .sketch ap[)ears elsewhere in this work. He came to this county and State with his parents when a lad of nine years, and here grew to manhood. His primary education was obtained in the public schools, after which he attended Illinois College for a time, and then took a course in tiie Agricultural College of Champaign. After fin- ishing his studies, he was engaged in teaching in Ford County for aliout three years. On tlie 25th of November, 1875, he was united in marriage to Miss Fannie Flagg, a native of Maine and a daughter of James H. Flagg, of Clarence, another of tlie honored pioneers of Ford County, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this volume. Mrs. Patton was mostly reared and educated in Ford County. After his marriage, Mr. Patton settled on a farm and engaged in agricultural pursuits, also deal- ing in and shipping stock. Of late years he has given most of his time and attention to the stock business and is the largest dealer and shiiJi)er in the eastern portion of Ford County. An enteii>ris- ing and thorough business man, he has been (piite successful in the stock business. He is the owner of a farm of about six hundred acres, all good and well improved land, located about four miles south of Clarence and adjoining the south line of Ford County. Formerly, Mr. I'atton was a Republican in (loli- tics, but of late years he has identified himself with the Prohibition party and is an advocate of the principles of temperance and prohibition. He was candidate on the old Creenback ticket for County Treasurer, but was defeated, although he ran ahead of his ticket. He was elected and served as one of the members of the Board of Supervisors of his county and has also held the office of Assessor and other local official positions in his township. He has served as a delegate to county conventions and is one of the Central Committee of the Pro- hibition party. He is a friend of education and believes in good schools and good teachers. For 3'ears he has served as a member of the School Board. Mr. and Mrs. Patton have a family of five chil- dren: Ada, David, Charles, Carrie and Elsie, all of whom are attending school. Mr. Patton and his wife arc active members of the Methodist Episco- pal Church, of which he is one of the official mem- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 411 hers. He is an active worker in lioth cliiircli and Sunday-school and has served as Superintendenl of the Sunday-school for a nural)er of years. He was one of the charter members of the Pellsville Lodge, I. O. (). F., and also one of the cliarter mem- bers of the lodge at CUirence. Mr. Patton has been a resident of Ford C'ounty, and of Button Township, almost his entire life. He h.as grown from a child to mature years among its people and is regarded as one of its foremost citizens. No man stands higher in pulilic esteem than does William T. Patton. a4'*'5"!',^^-3"5"5"5'r --• 5-**->i t^^^^i f^EY. OSCAR V. IIOLMGIJAIN, the efficient v^ County Treasurer of Ford C'ounty, who \V ranks among the best citizens of Paxton, was born on the 11th of March, 1852, in the Parish of Simtuna, near the cit3' of Westeros, one of the oldest, if not the oldest, cit3-of Sweden. His father was a professor of music. Oscar at- tended the public schools and afterwards entered college, from which he was graduated on the 19th of May, 1871, at tlie age of nineteen years. He also studied philosophy for a short time in the un- iversity of Upsala and was thereafter admitted to some of the Government departments in Stockholm, but all of these departments were crowded l)y those seeking preferment, and seeing the hopeless task of expecting to gain a competency for man^^ years to come, Mr. Holmgrain resolved to try his fortune in America, where he believed that better opportu- nities were afforded young men than in the older countries across the Atlantic. Carrying out his resolution, he landed at New York on the 6th of May, 1872, and went to Phila- delphia, Pa., where he first obtained a position in a wholesale establishment on Market Street. After- ward he was employed in a jewelry store in Pitts- burg, Pa., until the spring of 1879, when he deter- mined to fit himself for tlie ministry and enter upon gospel work. To this end, he made his way AVestward, and as a student entered Auguslana College and Theological Seminary located in Rock Island, III., and while studying theology was em plo3'ed as assistant teacher in the college depart- ment. In .June, 1882, he was ordained for the ministry in the Evangelical Lutheran Church and accepted a call as pastor from the congregation in Beaver, Iroquois County, 111. He labored there for more than threes-ears, or until the fall of 188,'), when he removed to Worcester, Mass., to take charge of the Elvangelical Lutheran Cluuch in that place. He there continued his pastoral labors for two years, when, in the autumn of 1887, he again came to Illinois, accepting a call from the church at Farmersville, Ford Count}', 111. (Farmersville, by the wa}', is no village at all, but merely a settle- ment without fixed boundaries, covering some eight or ten square miles and situated some six or eight miles southwest of Paxton. The settlers are mostl}' Swedish and Norwegian farmers). On the 24tli of June, 1882, Mr. Holmgrain was united in the hoi}' bonds of matrimony with Miss Jennie Christina Linderholm, of Sterling, 111., and unto them have been born two children: Elmer Frederick, born August 21, 1888, and Erick Oscar, the 3d of March, 1891. Entirely unsolicited by him, in September, 1890, Mr. Holmgrain was nominated for the position of County Treasurer on the people's ticket and elected to fill that position for a term of four years from December 1, 1890. He is proving a capal)le and efficient officer, ever prompt and faithful in the discharge of his duties. His life has been an up- right and honorable one, and not only l)y the people of his own church but by all who know him he is held in the highest rearard. ^^^USTAVE FREDERICKSON follows farm- ing on section 21, Patton Township. Among ^J the substantial agriculturists of foreign birth who have commenced life empty-handed in Illinois and acquired a competence and an honorable name, should he mentioned the subject of this sketch. He was born in Sweden, Novem- ber 4, 1845, and his youth was spent on a farm in his native country. He received fair oduca- 412 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. tional advantages in the mother tongue, but is wholly self-educated in English. When a young man of twenty-tiiree years, he emigrated to Amer- ica in 1868, crossing the Atlantic in a steamer, which dro|ij)ed anchor in the harbor of New York after seventeen days spent upon the Atlantic, during six of which they encountered very severe weather. It was on tlie 22d of April that Mr. Frederickson first set foot on American soil. Our subject came direct to Paxton and joined an uncle who had located here some three 3'ears previous, and resided on a farm about three miles south of the cit}'. lie then secured employment with M. L. Sullivant, one of the most extensive farmers of Ford County, at that time employing over four hundred men. Mr. Frederickson began working l)y the month and remained in the employ of this prominent farmer seven jears, five years of which time he was one of the foremen. Dur- ing that period he lost only two weeks' time from work, and that was caused by sickness during the second year of his service. In the meantime, another important event in his life occurred — his marriage to Miss Anna Peterson, a native of Sweden, who came to the United .States when a maiden of nineteen summers. Their union was celebrated on the 13th of October, 1872. In 1875, Mr. Frederickson rented land and en- gaijed in farming for himself, continuing to rent for about ten years. During that time he pur- chased one hundred and sixty acres of raw land, which constitutes his present farm, and placed it under cultivation, fenced and tiled it, and built the necessary buildings thereon. To that farm he removed in 1887, and it has since been his home. He has built a commodious and substan- tial residence which, with the other improvements on the place, stands as a monument to the thrift and enterprise of the owner. As the years have passed and his financial resources have increased, he has also extended the boundaries of his farm, until it now comprises four hundred and eighty acres in one body on section 21. It is a desirable and valuable place, and the owner is one of the progressive and prominent farmers of Patton Township. In 1884, Mr. Frederickson embarked in the mercantile business at Henderson Station, liut did not discontinue farming, and carried on a success- ful trade there for six 3-ears. He also bought and dealt in grain. In 1890, he sold out his business, and has since given his entire attention to the farm and stock-dealing. He has been most suc- cessful in all his undertakings, and liis success has been all the greater when we take into considera- tion the fact that he began life with 0UI3' a pair of willing hands to aid him in climbing the hill of prosperity. He is a man of unblemished charac- ter, straightforward and honorable in all the re- lations of life, and is highly esteemed by his neigh- bors .and friends. He and his wife are members of the Farmersville Lutheran Church, and, in politics, he is a Republican. He takes quite an active part in local politics, and has served for six years as Commissioner of Highways. Mr. Frederickson in manner is pleasant and courteous, and tlie respect tendered him by all with wliom he comes in con- tact is well merited. i^^ ETF.R RASMUS is a photographer engaged in business in Paxton, 111., and his life record is as follows: A native of .Sweden, he was born in Gamalstorp, on the 12th of September, 1862, his parents being Ake and Ida Rasmus, natives of the same countiy. With his parents, when a lad of five years, he crossed the Atlantic to America, the family settling in this city. His father died in 1882, aged fifty-nine years and three months:, Ijut his mother j'et sur- vives and is still a resident of Paxton. The subject of this sketch spent the days of his boyhood and youth in the usual manner of farmer lads and acquired his education in the common schools of the neighborhood. In 1885, he began learning photography with (). D. Noble, of Paxton, with whom lie worked about a year, and then went to Chicago, where he worked a year, perfecting himself in his business. He then returned to Pax- ton and formed a partnership with Mr. Noble, under the firm name of Noble & Rasmus. On the 9tli of February, 1886, he estal>lishcd a branch \ d^iCiyiy-Ci'.^^O' / ^ >~e...^^~~€^'^\ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 415 gallery in Gibson, Ford County, which he con- diK'terl for two years, while Mr. Noble liad charge of the one here. After two years lie closed it out and returned to Paxton, and, purchasing his part- ner's interest in the business, has since carried on the gallery alone. A marriage ceremony performed in Paxton on the 1 1th of December, 1890, united the destinies of Mr. Rasmus and Miss Hannah K. .Swanson, who was Ijorn in Pntton Townsliip, Ford County, and is a daugiitcr of John and Emily Swanson. llcr father is now deceased and her motlier is living, being the wife of Gus Carlson. Mr. and Mrs. Rasmus are members of the ^Evangelical Lutheran Church and are people of sterling worth, widely and favorably known in this community. In his political views, Mr. Rasmus is a Republican, and in his social relations, is a Knight of Pytliias, belong- ing to Gibson Lodge No. 123. His gallery has been longer in existence in Paxton than any other, and he does all kinds of work in the line of his art in first-class style. The coming summer, he designs makinga specialty of dning view work, in the way of farm and \\nc residence views. He earnestly desires to please his customers, and his efforts in tliat direction, combined with his courte- ous treatment, have won for him a liberal patron- age. 4^ EDWARD BABCOCK, who is general farming on secti^^^ICIIOLAS M. KEMP, a farmer and stock- [| jfj raiser residing on section ll,Patton Town- /iyi^ ship, has long been a resident of this county and is well deserving of representation in this volume. A native of Pennsylvania, he was born in Fayette Count}-, on the 4th of January, 1844, and comes of an old family of New Jersey. His grandfather, Charles Kemp, a native of that State, became one of the pioneer settlers of Fayette Count}', Pa. He was of German descent, the fam- ily being founded in New Jersey in Colonial days. Jacob Kemp, the father of our subject, was born in the Keystone State, Novemlier 25, 1821, and after attaining to mature years married Sarah Parnell,a native of Fayette County, where her father, Israel Parnell, was a substantial farmer. The young couple began their domestic life on a farm, but after a number of years removed Westward in 1856, locat- ing in Marshall County, 111. The father is one of the honored early settlers of that county, and is -•'•? \ ^-z.-^ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 423 still living on the old homestead there. He has been three times married, his first wife having died in Pennsylvania. In politics, lie is a Republican and has been honored with several local positions of trust. In the family were three children who grew to mature years, Nicholas, of this sketch, be- ing the eldest. Sarah ^I. is now the wife of Will- iam GriHin, a farmer of La Salle County, 111., and Marian Elizabeth resides in Paxton. Nicholas Kemp came to Illinois with his father in 1856, a lad of twelve years, and grew to man- liood in Marshall County. He received good edu- cational advantages and remained under the paren- tal roof until after he had attained his majority. He began earning his own livelihood, however, at the age of eighteen, when he commenced teaching in the public schools of Marshall County. For ten years, he followed that profession. In May, 1864, he responded to the country's call for troops, en- listing as a member of Company Y, One Hundred and Thirty-fourth Illinois Infantry. He was with his regiment through Kentucky and Missouri and participated in some minor engagements. He re- ceived his discharge in Chicago in the fall of 1864. On his return to the North, Mr. Kemp turned his attention to farming, which he followed during the summer season, while in the winter months he engaged in teaching. In the spring of 1875, he came to Ford County and purchased one hun- dred and twentj' acres of land, situated four miles west of Paxton. The place was then but sparsely improved, but it has since undergone great changes, a commodious and substantial residence having been erected, good barns and outbuildings built, and the whole transformed into a valuable and well-improved farm. He gives his entire time and attention to his business interests, having never taken part in political affairs other than casting his ballot for Republican candidates. However, he served for a number of years as a member of the School Board. In Marshall Countj-, 111., on the 12th of March, 1865, Mr. Kemp led to the marriage altar Miss Catherine Axline, who was born in Ohio, but spent her girlhood days in Marshall County, where her father, Aaron Axline, is one of the substantial 18 farmers and an honored pioneer. Eight children have been born unto Mr. and Mrs. Kemp, namely: Justin A., who was graduated from a commercial college and is now employed in Paxton; Luella B., wife of R. A. McCracken, of Paxton; Perle A., who was graduated from the Collegiate Institute and is now employed in Paxton; Edna, who is en- gaged in teaching music; Victor, Willard and Myr- tle, who are attending school, and Ralph W., who completes the famil}'. The parents and the three eldest children are active members of the Methodist Church of Pax- ton, and Mr. Kemp is a member of the Paxton Grand Army Post. He was appointed crop re- jjoiter for tiie county by the State Board of Agri- culture for the ^-ears 1891 and 1892. Throughout Ford and adjoining counties, Mr. Kemp is well and favorably known as one of the enterprising and progressive farmers of this community and a man of unblemished character who deserves the high esteem in which he is held. \T/ OHN lEHL, senior member of the private banking firm of lehl & Co., of Melvin, and one of the oldest settlers and most enter- prising men of that place, was born in Bald- enheim Alsace, France, now a province of Germany, on the 13th of January, 1839. His parents, .lohn and Barbara lehl, were natives of the same province, and the mother bore the same family name as her husband, but was not related to him prior to her marriage. Tlie subject of this sketch emigrated from Alsace to America with his parents in 1850, when a lad of eleven years, and settled in Deerfield Township, Lake County, 111., where the parents remained for some 3ears, the father carrying on a farm until 1888, when he removed to Northfield Township, Cook Count}', 111., where he still makes his home. He was born on the 20th of May, 1809, and his wife in Ajjril of tiie same 3-ear. Her death occurred in Dearfield, in April, 1852, at the age of fort}-- three years. In their family are three living chil- dren as follows: Barbara, who was born Blarch 17, 424 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 1836, married Phillip Laesser and resides in North- field, Cook County, 111.; Salome, born July 28, 1842, became the wife of David llorenberger, and makes her home in Deerfield, Lake County, 111. Our subject was reared to manhood upon his fatlier's farm and acqviired his education partly in the schools of his native country and partly in the American public schools. On attaining his majority, he left liome and began life for himself as a farm hand. In 1864, he commenced farming in his own interest in Marshall County. 111., where he continued to reside for four years, or until 1868, when he re- moved to a farm of one liundred and sixty acres which he had purchased the jear previous in Peach Orchard Township, Ford County. There he spent several years engaged in farming and stock-raising with marked success, and in 1873, he formed a partnership with Messrs. Frasius and George T. Arends at Melvin, under the firm name of Frasius, lehl & Co., dealers in grain, seeds and coal. The firm continued business without change until 1876, when Mr. Frasius sold out to his partners and with- drew from the business. The firm name was then changed to lehl & Co., and those gentlemen con- tinued operations until November, 1890, when they sold out and established the private banking house of lehl ife Co., of Melvin. It was the first banking house in that place and is still conducted by its original proprietors. Messrs. lehl and Arends have invested extensively in farming lands in Ford County, buying farms from time to time, until tlieir aggregate possessions, in common, amount to eleven hundred and twenty acres, while Mr. lehl has one farm of one hundred and sixt3' acres which he owns individually'. "Witii the exception of an eighty-acre tract in Wall Township and a quarter- section in Sullivant Township, their possessions all lie in Peach Orchard Township. It is all arable, rich farming land which has increased in value very rapidly witliin the last few years. On the 3d of June, 1871, in Peach Orchard Township, Mr. lehl was united in marriage with Miss Mary Arends, whose birth occurred in Grove- land Township, Tazewell County, 111., on the 5th of November, 1854. Iler parents are Tels and Teda Arends. Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. lehl, four of whom are yet living: Teda Jo- hanna, the eldest, was born JuneSO, 1872, and died March 15, 1875; John George, born April 17, 1875, died April 8, 1879; Johanna Alvina was born November 25, 1877; George Teis February 20, 1880; Clara Marj', June 4, 1884; and Edwin Albert on the 27th of October, 1887. Airs. lehl is a member of the German Methodist Church, which Mr. lehl also attends, although he does not belong. He is a Reimblican in politics and is the present Su|)ervisor in the County Board from Peach Orchard Township. He was also chosen a member of the village Board of Trustees on its organization, holding the position until April, 1892. The second year after Peach Orchard was organized, he was chosen Assessor and served one term. His life has been well and worthily spent and his career has been a useful one. He started out empty-handed, but liy industry, integ- rity and the exercise of good business judgment, has acquired a large property, and vvon a foremost place among tlie successful and cnteiprising citizens of Ford County. His counsel and advice in busi- ness and political matters is sought and respected by his fellow-citizens, by whom he is held in high esteem. WjILLIAM E. McMULLEN, a horticulturist, has been a resident of Gibson City since „ „ the spring of 1876, and of Illinois since 1851. He was Jjorn in D;ide County, Mo., Octo- ber 15, 1842, and is a son of Samuel and Eliza- beth (Janes) Mc^IuUen. His father was born in Pendleton County, Va., on the 26th of May, 1816, and was descended from an old Virginia family of Scotch origin. When seven years of age, Samuel McMuUen removed with his parents to Eaj'ette County, Ohio, where he w.as reared to agricultural pursuits, and there was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Janes, a daughter of Edward Janes, a soldier of the War of 1812. Her brother Henry was a pioneer of Wisconsin and was the founder of the city of Janesville, which bears his name. Mrs, McMuUen was born in Fayette County, Ohio, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPinCAL RECORD. 425 In 18-il, Mr. McMullen leraoved with liis famil}^ to Darle Count)', Mo., but returned to the old home iu Ohio seven j'ears later. From there they came to Illinois in 1851, settling near Lexington, in MoLeau County, where the father of our sub- ject bought a farm, and there engaged in farming and stock-raising successfully until age necessi- tated his retirement from active life, when he re- moved to Lexington, where he now resides. His estimable wife departed this life on the 3d of August, 1887, beloved by all who knew her. William E. was reared to farm pursuits and re- ceived his education in the district schools. No event of sjiecial importance occurred during his e.irly life until his enlistment with the boys in blue for the late war, on the 7th of August, 1862. He entered tlie service as a member of Comijany E, Ninety-fourth Illinois Infantry, and served until mustered out, .July 19, 1865, after the close of the war. His regiment was in the Thirteenth Army Corps and his principal field of service was on the frontier. They were first ordered to Mis- souri, and thence to Arkansas in the fall of the same year. He participated in the battle of. Prai- rie Grove, Ark., December 7, 1862; took part in the siege of Vicksburg from .June 11 until its sur- render July 4, 1863; and was next ordered to Louisiana, where he took part iu the skirmish at Morgan za Bend, after which he went to New Or- leans and joined Gen. Banks' fleet on the expedi- tion to the mouth of the Rio Grande River, in Texas. In October of that year, they took pos- session of Brownsville, in that State, and were on garrison duty at that point until August, 1864, when tlie}^ returned to New Orleans and joined the siege of Ft. Morgan, Ala. From their camp at that point they made a raid west of Mobile. In April, 1865, he took part in the siege and capture of Spanish Fort and Mobile. After taking pos- session of that cit3% the^' returned to Texas and were stationed at Galveston until mustered out. On leaving the service, Mr. McMullen returned to his home in McLean County and engaged in farming. On the 4th of July, 1866, our subject was mar- ried, in Bloomington, 111., to Miss Ada J. Trim- mer, a daughter of Daniel and Mary A. (Stretch) Trimmer. Mrs. McMullen was born in McLean Countj', where her people had settled in 1840. Her father was born near Trenton, N. J., and was of French descent on his father's side, and of Ger- man on the mother's, her maiden name being Van Dolah, and that of her mother was Lanter- man. Mr. Trimmer was a stanch Republican in politics and a personal friend of Abraham Lincoln. He was accidentally shot and killed while on his way to the polls to east his vote for the "IMartyr President" on the 6th of November, 1860. The parents of Mrs. McMullen made their home in Fa^'ette County, Ohio, previous to coming to II li nois, and the mother still resides on the old home- stead in McLean Count}-. Nine children were born to Mr. and Jlrs. iVlc- Mullen, of whom six are living: Otho J., Eflie A.; Lnla, who died at the age of six'and one-half years; Stella; Orville, who died, aged two years and three months; Burtus A., Noah E.; Nellie O., who died when one j'ear old; and Nettie A., who is the youngest. In the fall of 1867, Mr. McMullen quit farming and engaged in the grocery business in Towanda, 111., but sold out in 1869, and resumed agricul- tural pursuits in Cheney Grove. In 1875, he again gave up farming and removed to Bloom- ington, where he spent one ^ear in a wholesale house, after which he came to Gibson City. Tlie first year there he was employed in a grocery store, then carried on a farm for three years, and for the next two years was engaged in the dra}-- ing business, after which he was appointed Post- master under President Arthur. He received his commission in February, 1883, and served for four years, since which time he has been engaged in market gardening and the growing of small fruits. He has a valuable tract of eight acres, lying almost contiguous to the northern boundary of the city. In politics, Mr. McMullen is a radical Repub- lican and has served two terms on the Gibson City Board, and has been Tax Collector for one term. He has proved a faithful and etticient pub- lic officer and has gained the respect of the entire community. He belongs to the Grand Army of the Republic, holding membership with Lott Post No. 70, of Gibson City. In their religious views, 426 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Mr. and Mrs. McMuUeii affiliate with the church of the United Brethren in Christ. The record shows Mr. McMullen to be a patriotic, enterpris- ing and reputable citizen. In the discharge of oflicial duty, he was ever prompt, correct and obliging, and in liis business relations his integ- rity is above question, and his general course has been such as to command the respect and esteem of all who know him. -^1^ 'ji7 OCKHAKT B. FARRAR, M. U. No otlipr I (^ physician has so long resided in Paxton as /*'— ^^, the gentleman whose name lieads this sketch, and although he now forms no business acquaintances, practically living a retired life, he yet lias a wide acquaintance throughout Ford and adjoining counties. In this communit}^, to say one does not know Di. Farrar is almost to argue oneself unknown. He was born in the town of Langdon, Sullivan County, N. H., August 29, 1822, and comes of an old English family that traces its an- cestry back to the time of the Norman conquest. The date of its settlement in America is 1640. Isaac Farrar, the grandfather of our subject, was born in Massachusetts, August 10, 1719. George Farrar, father of the Doctor, was born in the Baj' State in 176.5, there grew to manhood and acquired his education. He was twice married, his second union being with Abigail Graves, a native of Saybrook, Conn., born November 8, 1781. Her father was a native of New England and a pioneer of New Hampshire. George Farrar died in Febru- ary, 1825, when the Doctor was a mere child, and his wife passed away May 13, 1861. Our subject remained with his mother until a lad of nine years, when he spent one >'ear in the home of an uncle and then began farm work, which he followed for six years, attending school during the winter season. At the age of sixteen, he left the farm and became a student in some of the higher schools and academies of his native-State, after which he engaged in teaching during the winter seasons, while in the summer he further pursued his studies. At length he determined to engage in the practice of medicine and to this end took a course of lectures at Woodstock, VI. Af- terward he took a second course in the Berkshire Medical College, of Pittstield, Mass., from which he was graduated in the fall of 1848. The Doctor first opened an office in Ilollis, N. H., where he prosecuted his chosen profession for three 3-ears, removing from there to Manchester, Mass., where he continued for a similar period. Dr. Farrar then took a supplemental^ course of medical lectures and hospital observations at New York and Phila- delphia in the winter of 1854-55. The following year he came to Illinois, locating in Iroquois Count}-, where he bought land and improved and opened up a farm, following agricultural pursuits for about two and a lialf years. He then aban- doned fai-ming and in 1858 came to Paxton, then a village of about half a dozen residences and two stores. He resumed the practice of his profession and worked up an extensive business, extending over a radius of from fifteen to twenty miles in all directions. Once more he abandoned this work, in 1869, in which year he went to Ann Arbor and for two terms was a student in the law department of the State LTuiversity, from which he was gradu- ated in 1871. He then returned to Paxton, and to the practice of law devoted his energies for three years, after which he once more resumed medical practice. In the meantime, he had made a study of homeopathy and now combined its practice with that of allopathy, being governed b^' his judgment concerning the case under consideration. Dr. Farrar has been three times married. On the 25th of April, 1849, in New Hampshire, he wedded Miss Frances Maria Graves, also a native of the Granite State and a daughter of Caleb P. and Rebecca Graves. She died in Paxton, Novem- ber 16, 1863, leaving a daughter, Ellen, whose death occurred at the .age of six years. On the 22d of June, 1864, -the Doctor led to the marriage altar Miss Ellen M. Kirkaldie, a native of Michigan, and her death occurred April 2, 1874. There was also one daughter born of this union, Ellen M., born March 30, 1874. She was left motherless when only tliree days old. She was reared and educated in Paxton and on the 12th of October, 1889, in her sixteenth year, became the ^0i-^^ /xf-^aAA PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 429 wife of George W. Crossman, of Garland, Tex. She was called to her final home April 28, 1891. On the 4th of Noveml)er, 1875, in Chicago, Dr. Farrar married Laura E. Stearns, a native of Vermont, and a lady of intelligence and culture. She is a grad- uate of the Hahnemann Medical College of Clii- cago, of the Class of '72. The Doctor and his wife are niemljers of the Congregational Church and throughout this com- munity are held in high regard. The Doctor is not now engaged in active practice but is living retired. He owns some valuable land in and ad- joining the city, and the property he acquired in former years is sutHeient to keep him comforta- bly tluough his remaining days. He has alwaj's been a great reader and has quite an extensive library. Among the ))ioneers of the county, Dr. Farrar is numljered, and few have a wider acquaint- ance and none are held in higher regard in the community than the subject of this sketch. "lYJ OHN KARR, who is now living a retired life in Paxton. is a native of the Buckeye State, but has long been a prominent citizen of _ Ford County. He was born in Harrison County, Ohio, Ma}' 22, 1820, and is a son of Rob- ert Karr, who was a native of W.ashington County, Pa. Tiie Karr family- is of Scotch extraction, but the mother of our subject was of Irish descent. Her maiden name was Mary Endsley, and she was born in Pennsylvania. In the family were seven chil- dren, the eldest of whom is our subject; Isabella, the next younger, is the wife of .Jolin i\IcKinscy, a resident farmer of Michigan; Nancy is the widow of .lames McKinsey, a farmer of Summit County, Ohio; Andrew lives near the old homestead in Ohio; Roliert follows agricultural pursuits in Wall Township, this count}-; Mary .1., who liecame the wife of John Duncan,, died in 18(')."); Matilda, the wife of Alonzo Bradley, resides in Michigan. The father of these children was called to his final rest in 1881, but the mother passed away in 1840. They were both members of the United Presbyte- rian Church and were highly respected people. After the death of his first wife, the father married Martha Young, by whom he had three children: Elizabeth A. is married and living in Summit County, Ohio; Martha H, wife of John Dougharty, of Coshocton County, Ohio; James A. is deceased. We now take up the personal history of our subject, who received the educational advantages afforded by the district schools of the neighbor- hood, and remained at home upon his father's farm until nineteen years of age, when he started out to earn his own livelihood. He began for himself by learning the blacksmith's trade, and for many years followed that occupation. As a companion and helpmate on life's journey, he chose Miss Mary Klingelsraith, daughter of Peter and Mary Kling- elsmith, her father being of German descent. Their union was celebrated June 14, 1849, and unto them were born six children, as follows: Mitchel A., who is now engaged in farming in Sioux County, Iowa; James C, who follows farming in Sioux County, Iowa; Robert A., a retired agriculturist of Paxton; Alexander S., who is engaged in agricul- tural pursuits in Sioux County, Iowa, and George Washington, also a retired farmer, who makes his home in Paxton; Thomas M. died in infancy. After his marriage, Mr. Karr erected a black- smith shop which he carried on in connection with general farming, and in the county of his nativit}- he continued to make his home until the autumn of 1858, when he came West by te.am, making his first location in Carrol County, near Camden, Ind. Mr. Karr there rented land and made his home for about a year, after which he went to Iroquois County, 111., and resided upon a rented farm for two years. He then purchased one hundred and sixty acres of good farming land, but two years later sold out and came to Ford County. Again he made a purchase of land, this time becoming the owner of two hundred and forty acres in Button Township, to which he afterward added one hun- dred and sixty acres and carried on general farm- ing until 1878, when lie rented his land and came to Paxton. In 1876, Mr. Karr was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, who died on the 12th of March and was laid to rest in (ilenn Cemetery, of Paxton. In June, 1877, he w.as again married, his second 430 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. union being witli Margaret Simmons. His marriage has been blessed b}' one daugliter, Sadie E., who is still with her parents. They have a pleasant home in Paxton and arc surrounded by many friends who esteem them highly for their man}' excellen- cies of cliaraeter. On his removal to the city. Mr. Karr opened a grocery store and engaged in business in that line for two j'ears, after which he returned to his farm, m.aking it his home until 1888. In tiiat year, he purchased propertj' in Paxton, again rented his farm and once more came to the city, where he is now living a retired life, resting in the enjoyment of the fruits of former toil. In liis political atHl- iations, he is a Prohibitionist. He served his town- ship as Commissioner of Highways for fourteen years, a fact which indicates his faithfulness to duty and the trust reposed in him by his fellow- townsmen. "With the United Presbyterian Church he and his wife hold membership, and in all public interests calculated to benefit the community he bears a share. He has been a resident of Ford County for a third of a century and is recognized as one of its most worthy citizens. '" • *S- aARL F. CARLSON, who is engaged in gen- eral farming on section 18, Patton Town- ' ship, was born in Sweden, on the 22d of August, 1834, and in the usual manner of farmer's lads was reared to manhood. He also acquired a fair education in his native tongue. After he had arrived at man's estate, he was married, in June, 1857, to Miss Louisa Nelson, who was born and reared in Sweden. The wedding tour of the young couple consisted of the voj'age to America, for they had determined to try their fortune in the New World, of whose advantages and privileges they had heard much. They took passage on a sailing-vessel at Hamburg, and after nine weeks and three days spent on the broad Atlantic, a pleasant voyage was ended by their arrival in New York. They at once started "West by way of Al- banj', going by rail to Buffalo, across the Lakes to Detroit and thence b}' rail to Chicago. Mr. and Mrs. Carlson made their first location in Marshall Count}', where the}' had acquaintances living. This was the beginning of a new epoch in their lives. They both began working for an American farmer, and after a year, Mr. Carlson, in company with others, went to Kansas, took a claim in Butler County, and built a log house, and there remained for a few weeks. He then returned to his wife and was again employed by the farmer before mentioned, clearing and developing land, while the wife did the work of a domestic. Thus two years passed, during w.hicli time Mr. Carlson purchased a team and Ihe iniiilements necessary for farming. He then rented land in Putnam County, but afterwards returned to Mai'shall County, where he continued to operate a rented farm until 1863. In that year he came to Ford County and bought a tract of railroad land of eiglity acres, the greater part of which was in its primitive condition, but be at once began breaking, fenced it and built a small liut comfortable home. After he had suc- ceeded in paying for this farm, he made a purchase of one hundred and sixty acres, a half mile west, and since that time has also bought one hundred and eighty-seven acres adjoining his home farm. "We can see from this that Mr. Carlson has pros- pered. There were many hardships to be borne, many ditliculties to be overcome, but helalioredon untiringly and the success which is the reward of persistent effort at length came to him. lie now owns four hundred and twenty-seven acres of val- uable land, well improved. The little home has long since been replaced by a commodious and substantial residence; good barns and other out- buildings have been erected, and over |i2,00() worth of tiling has been put on the place. He also owns residence property in Elliott. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Carlson have been born six children, who are yet living: August, who is now married and operates one of his father's farms: Betsy, wife of AVilliam AVestland, a resident farmer of this county; Amanda, wife of Albert Froid, a farmer of this county; Frank, who is mar- ried and follows agricultural pursuits in Patton Township; Albert and Lynda at home. They also lost four children: Mary S., who died at the age of fourteen years; Ida, who died at the age of PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 431 twelve years; Albert, whose death occurred at the age of ten, dying of smallpox in March, 1874, and Ludwick, who was drowned in the creek near his home in 1888, at the age of eighteen years. Mr. and Mrs. Carlson are members of the Luth- eran Church, and, in i)olitics, he is independent, voting for the man whom he thinks best qualified to fill the office, regardless of party affiliations. He has helped to make Ford County what it is to- day, and his enterprising and progressive si)irit has made him one of its valued citizens. His life may well serve to encourage others who, like him- self, have to begin empty-handed, depending only on their own exertions. He may truly be called a self made man, for his success is due entirely to his own efforts, and he is now one of the wealthy men of the communit}'. In his intercourse with his fellow-men, he has ever been straightforward aud honoralile, thus winning the confidence of all. ♦^I^€- -eV- RUMAN D. SPALDING, of the firm of ijj^N Eggleston & Spalding, dealers in lumber, " grain and coal of Gibson City, is a native of the Empire State. He was born in Lcwiston, Niagara Count}', on the l;jth of Jlarch, 1839, and is a son of Sterne and Caroline (Dewey) Spaldii.g. The parents were also natives of New York, in which State they were reared and married and there re- sided until the spring of 1858, when they removed to Steuben County, Ind. It was in March, 1860, that they left their home in that county and be- came residents of Palmyra, Lenawee County, Mich., where the father died in 1871. The mother still survives. She came to (Tibson in 1873, and resides with her sou, Truman D., at the advanced age of eighty-three years. The subject of this sketch was a man of nine- teen years when he left his native State and with his parents went to Indiana, where he taught school. He also accompanied tiiem on their re- moval to Michigan. His education was acquired in the High School and at the Commercial College, of Buffalo, N. Y. In 1862, he went to Chicago, where he secured a position with a lumber firm, aud was thus employed as shipping clerk, foreman and salesman until March, 1871, when he came to Gib- son, then a railwaj' station only just established and with onlj- five houses in the place. After sat- isfying himself that this was a favorable location for a lumber-yard, he returned to Chicago and on the 1st of April following came to Gibson as a permanent settler, opening a lumber-yard in this place. He hauled his lumber from Paxton during the following summer, for the railroad was not completed until the succeeding September. The first car unloaded at Gibson was freighted by Mr. Spalding on tlie Illinois Central Railroad and con- tained his household goods and some lumber. It was unloaded on the 4th of September, 1871. The firm of which Jlr. Spalding was a member was composed of the following named gentlemen: Truman D. Spalding, \V. H. Simms and E. H. Eld- ridge, and the firm was styled Spalding, Simms & Co. After two years, Mr. Simms bought out Mr. Eldridge's interest and the firm name was changed to Simms & Spalding, under which title business' was continued until August, 1878, when Mr. Spalding purchased his partner's interest and was alone in business until 1880, when George S. Eggleston bought an interest and the existing firm of Eggleston & Spalding was organized. These gentlemen are extensively engaged in the manufacture of drain tile, which industiy they es- tablished in Gibson in 1880. They are also buy- ing and shipping gniin at otherstations than Gib- son, including Guthrie and Ilarpster on the Illi- nois Central, and at Garber and Proctor on the Wabash Kailroad, having elevators at Guthrie, Garber and Gibson; they also continue to handle lumber and other building material. On the 19th of April, 1868, Mr. Spalding was married in Fremont, Ind., the lady of his choice being Miss Wealthy R. Dewey, a native of Mon- roe, Ohio, and a daughter of Truman C. Dewey. Their union has been blessed with two sons: Harry L. and Fred M. The last-named is a student in the civil engineering class of the University of Illinois in Chaiui)aign. Mr. Spalding exercises his right of franchise in support of the Hepublicau party, l)eing a Blaine Republican, and is the present Mayor, being elected 432 POUTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.- 011 the anti-license ticket in 1891 and again in 1892; he also was the first to hold that olfice on the organization of the town in 1872. Socially, he is a member of the Royal Templars of Temperance, of Gibson City Council, No. 32, and has been Sec- retary and Treasurer of that body. He is recog- nized as one of the most prominent and enterpris- ing business men of Gibson City, and has always borne a conspicuous part in aiding all worthy pub- lic enterprises that are calculated to improve and develop tlie city and county. His course has ever been that of an upright business man, whose in- tegrity and good name liave been above reproach. In the spring of 1873, the Gibson District Fair Association was organized, with Dr. J. E. Davis, President; J. H. Collier, Treasurer; and T. D. Spald- ing, Secretary, which office he held for two years. He was then elected Treasurer for the next year and tiie following year General Superintendent. In 1880, he was appointed Township School Treasurer, which office he has held continuously since. In January, 1881, at a meeting of the State Tile- makers' Association, held at Springfield, 111., he was elected Secretary of the association, and re- elected again in 1882 and 1883 and in 1890 was elected President of the association. He was one of the first in the township to advocate the making of gravel roads and it was through his efforts tiiat tiie first appropriation of $300 was made for mak- ing a trial piece of road, in 1883, of one-half mile. So great was the success of the piece, that the town- ship now has about fifteen miles of good gravel road. ylLLIAM POWELL, the only merchant in Gibson City that carries on an exclusivel}' boot and shoe store, is a native of Kos- ciusko County, Ind., born November 14, 1841. His grandfather, Philip Powell, was one of the first settlers of Indiana, to which State he emigrated from Kentucky. The fatlier of our subject, who also bore the name of William Powell, was a native of Kentucky and bj^ occupation was a farmer. On reaching manliood he returned to Kentucky and there married Miss Sarah Kelso, who was a native of that State. Returning to Indiana, they made that their home until the death of the wife and mother, soon after which Mr. Powell removed to Darke County, Ohio, where he was engaged in the stock business. In 1856, he came to McLean County, 111., and later went to Clarke County, Iowa, but came again to the former county, passing his last days there with our subject. William Powell, Jr., was only six years of age when his mother died, and some two j^ears later went to live with an uncle in Fayette County, Ohio, where he made his home for some time, working on the farm and attending the district scliools of the neighborhood. In 1856, he accom- panied his father to Illinois and also went on with him to Iowa. When the gold excitement at Pike's Peak ran high in 1860, he journeyed thither, but after mining a short time he returned the same year to Iowa and afterward located in McLean County, this State. On the 4th of October, 1864, !\Ir. Powell was united in marriage witli Miss Elizaljeth E. Bunn,a daugliter of John and Mary A. (Wilej') Bunn. Mr. Bunn was born in Bucks County, Pa., and his wife was a native of Switzerland County, Ind. Botli were earlj- settlers of McLean County, 111., where their marriage was celebrated. On their arrival in that county, tlie country was almost an unbroken prairie and game of all kinds was ver}' plentiful. Mr. Bunn has the distinction of having hauled from Chicago the lumber to Iniild the first schoolhouse and the first church in Martin Township, McLean County. He was a farmer b}' occupation and a man of sterling worth. He passed away at the age of fifty-six, and his estimable wife was fifty-four years of age at the time of her death. Mrs. Powell is the oldest of their ten children, two sons and eight daughters, and is a native of McLean County, born on the 19th of August, 1844. Soon after the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Powell, they located in Martin Township of her native county, purchasing one hundred and sixt}- acres of land, mostly on credit, and devoted their united efforts to its payment and improvement. Assisted by his estimable wife, our subject became one of the sul)stantial farmers of tlie community, where he was widely and favorablj- known. In 1886, he Q o PORTRAIT AND BICGRAPIIJCAL RECORD. 435 removed to Gibson Cit3' and engaged in the boot and shoe trade, carrjing a full and complete line of the latest styles. Notwithstanding strong op- position, lie has built up a good trade and is one of the successful merchants of the place. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Powell were born eiglit chil- dren, of whom five are still living, as follows: Lucius M., Lydia E., Wiley K., Shelby C. and Bertie E. Mr. Powell is an active worker in the Christian Church and his wife a Methodist in re- ligions belief.' In political sentiment, he is an un- compromising Prohibitionist and while in JIcLeau County- held a number of otticial positions, includ- ing that of Collector, School Director and others. Not a little credit is due our subject and his worthy wife, for, beginning life in limited circumstances, they have by their own efforts accumulated a val- uable property to leave to their children; but bet- ter than all they will leave them the priceless heri- tage of a good example. The}- stand high in social circles and have manv friends in this communily. -^^ ^SCAR HENRY DAMON, a retired merchant of Gibson City, is a native of the old ( Jranite ^^^ State. He was born in Hanover, N. II., May 24, 1835, and is a son of Ebenezer and Chloe A. (Lawrence) Damon. The founder of the fan;ily in the United States was Deacon .lolin Damon, wlu) emigrated from Reading, England, to Reading, Mass., about the middle of the seventeenth century. His son Samuel emigrated to Dedhain, Mass., and in the line of descent w.as followed b_v Samuel, Eben- ezer and Ik'ujamin. The last-named married Anna Pratt and removed to Ashby, jM.ass. Their son, Benjamin, wedded Eannie .lasef and afterward became a resident of Kirby, Xi. The father of our subject was born in Ashby, Mass., November 4, 180C, .and wedded Chloe A. Lawrence, in Lyndon, Vt., November 5, 1832. .She was born in Kirb3', that State, March 1, 1812, and is descended from John Lawrence, of Asliton Hall, in Derliy, England, and ^Nlary Townle3', of Town- ley Hall, ^Manchester County. This young cou|)le eloped, came to the United States about 1712, and are said to have located in Massachusetts. Large estates were left by both families, and rightfully belong to their heirs, but as the young couple did not keep up correspondence with their relatives in England, it is now dillicult to prove who are the rightful heirs. The father of our suliject in early life engaged in merchandising and subsequently traveled for the Fairbanks' Scale Co)npany, of St. .Johnsbury, Vt. Going to Lawrence. JNIass., he there resided for some six years and aided in the construction of the Pacific Woolen .ind Cotton Mills. In 1856, he emigrated to Adams County, Wis., .and some four years later to La Salle County, 111., where he died in 1871. The death of his wife occurred in 1890, at the home of our subject. In their family were six children, four sons and two daughters: Dr. O. B. Damon, who was acting Assistant Surgeon in the navy for four years during the late war, is now a practicing physician of Chicago; Albert O., who went out as a private of Battery K, Second Illinois Light Artillery, was detailed as Post Ordnance Ser- geant at Columbus, Ky., and later promoted to Ad- jutant of the Fourth Heavy Artillery, United States Colored Troops, is in business at Olympia, Wash. Oscar II. Damon is the second child of the family in order of birth. He received a common-school education and when twenty years of age began life for himself. He visited AVisconsin and Iowa, after which he returned to the East, and in 1859 joined his brother in a mercantile business in Rut- land, 111. To the interests of his store he devoted his attention until the 15th of October, 1861, when he laid .aside all business cares and, respond- ing to the country's call for troops, enlisted in Battery K, Second Illinois Light Artillery. A month longer and he would have served three years, when he was discharged, September 14, 1864, at Natchez, ISIiss., on account of ill health. Returning to La S.alle County, Mr. Damon again engaged in merchandising in Rutland, and was ap- pointed P(jstmasterat that place. In 1866, he went to Canada and embarked in the drug business at Coaticook, (Quebec, where he continued operations for nine years, when he was forced to sell out on account of ill health. After spending two years 436. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. on tlie Pacific Slope he went to Chicago, where he remained until 1878. That year witnessed his ar- rival in Gibson City, where he came to look after and improve his lands. On the 19th of May, 186G, Blr. Damon was uni- ted in marriage to Mrs. Margaret A. Lott, widow of J. B. Lott. Mr. Damon is an Elder of the Presby- terian Church, and Superintendent of the Sunday- school. His wife belongs to the Christian Church, of which she is a Trustee, and teacher in the Sun- day-school, and takes an active part in benevolent and charitable works. In politics, Mr. Damon is a stanch Republican, and has served as Town Clerk and as a member and Presidentof the Village Board. He is Secretary of the Count3' Sunday- school Association, and is an active worker in Lott Post, No. 70, G. A. R., of Gibson City, having served two terms as Post Commander and being now Post Adjutant. Bj' his own efforts, he has made a competence, and by his upright life and sterling worth has won the highest regard of all with whom he has come in contact. His duties of citizenship have ever been faithfully performed and he has lieen true to every trust reposed in him. — !- "^^SSS. i>-^^ America. He sailed from Glasgow on the 4th of -July, 1866, for Montreal, where he arrived after a voyage of fourteen days, and then went to Ciiicago, and thence to INIarshall County, 111., where he spent the autumn with an uncle. During that time, he purchased one liun- dred and sixty acres of land in Lyman Township, Ford County, and in 1872 entered into partnership in general merchandising with ,1. A. Monteliusand George Campbell, in Roberts, 111. There were only four stores in the village at that time and about eight residences. Mr. Anderson continued to engage in general merchandising until 1881, when he purchased the banking business of J. B. Meserve & Co., and has been actively engaged in general banking since that time. While a merchant, he also dealt extensively in grain. In 1883, he established the Roberts brick and tile factory, which was totally destroyed by fire in February, 1855. The following spring, in company- with John Kenward, he rebuilt the factory and tile works, and their stock is now worth 110,000. They are doing an excellent business, which is constantly increasing. Mr. Anderson does a general banking business, both foreign and local, and is President of the Roberts Exchange Bank, of which liis daugh- ter, Miss Maggie, is the efficient cashier, having served in that position since 1886. Mr. Anderson led to the marri.age altar Miss Jlarj^ Goodlet Martin, who was Ijorn in Peoria County, September 21, 1851. Tlieir union was celebrated October 12, 1869, and unto them have been born one son and nine daughters: Maggie, cashier in her father's bank; Martha, who attended the Rice Collegiate Institute and is now pursuing a classical course of study at Ferry Hall, Lake Forest, 111.; Georgie, wlio is visiting and studying at Helensburgh, Scotland; Jlary, Bethia, Jeanie, Anne, Marian, Flora and Adam. Mrs. Anderson was born in Peoria County and was reared in Mar- shall Count}', 111. Her father, John Martin, was a 438 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. native of Dumfriesshire, and a stonemason by trade. He died December 9, 1887, in his seventy- third year. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Margaret Anderson, died April 22, 1880, in her sixty-ninth year. Mr. Anderson was a volunteer in tiie Nineteenth Lanarkshire Killenien and afterward joined the 4 A Battalion, Lanarkshire Kegiineut, by which he was presented with a medal for his excellent .skill as a marksman. This medal reads as follows: Presented by Major Hozier 1862. "Won by Color Sergeant Christopher Anderson Ninety-fifth Company 4 A Battalion L. R. V. In iiolitics, Mr. Anderson is a Democrat and cast his first Presidential vote for Horace Greeley. He has taken quite a prominent part in political affairs and has been a member of the School Board for many years. He served as Justice of the Peace for fifteen years and is holding the office at the present time. He and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Chui'ch and are classed among the prominent and influential citizens of this commu- nity-. They have a beautiful home, situated at the corner of Maple and Green Streets. Both in busi- ness and social circles, Mr. Anderson ranks high. He is sagacious and far sighted and his success in life is due entirely to his own efforts. ENJAJnN F. MASON, a well-known citi- zen of Paxton, claims New York as the Strife of his nativity, but for a quarter of a century has made his home in Paxton. Oswego County was the place of his birth and the date June 15, 1832. His parents, Benjamin F. and Polly (Porter) Mason, were natives, respectively, of New Hampshire and New York and were of English descent. They had a family of seven children, as follows: Phwbe, wife of Joseph Myers, a farmer residing in Oswego County, if. Y.; Betsy, wife of George Raymond, also a farmer of that county; Loraine, wife of J. Daniel Gardner, an agriculturist of the Empire State; Emily, deceased; Granville, who died in 1879; and Ashbel, who died in 1854. The father of this family- was called to his final rest in 1878. having long sur- vived his wife, who passed away in 1833. As our subject was only nine months old when his mother died, he was taken to the home of an uncle, where he remained for some j-ears. He at- tended the district schools of the neighborhood and acquired a good business education. He be- gan life for himself when quite young, working as a farm hand, and was also employed in a sawmill and shingle-mill, or at other pursuits, whereby he might earn an honest dollar and thus provide for his own maintenance. At the age of nineteen, he began serving an apprenticeship to the blacksmith trade in Pulaski, N. Y., and was thus emplo^-ed until the breaking out of the late war. In the meantime, on the 5th of October, 1851, Mr. Mason was united in marriage with Miss Eliza J., daughter of William and Fannie A'anderiioff. When tiie war broke out, he left his h(mie and fam- ily, enlisting at the first call lor troops. He had watched with interest the progress of events, and resolved that if the South attempted secession he would strike a blow for the preservation of the Union, so, in April, 1861, he became a member of Company G, Twenty-fourth New York Infantry. His fiist active service was at the second battle of Bull Run, and he participated in many other en- gagements until discharged from the service on the 29th of May, 1863, when he returned to his native State. The following October he again en- listed as a private of Company G, Twenty-fourth New York Cavalry, but was soon promoted to be Quartermaster-Sergeant of his regiment, and served as such until the close of the war, when he was honorably discharged on the 26th of June, 1865. Mr. Mason immediately thereafter returned to his old home in New York and engaged in black- smithing, continuing business there until the spring of 1869, when he came to Paxton. Here he opened a smithy, and continued business in the line of his trade until the autumn of 1885, when he was elected Sheriff of Ford County on the Re- longer tlian an}' other of its present citizens. He was born in Can- ada, near tlie city of Prescott, April 15, 1821. and was the second in a familv of three sons and one daughter, three of whom are jet liviiio. Tlie parents were Peter and Electa (Bar- ton) Smith. The father was a Scotch Highlander, born in Inverness-shire. He followed farming throughout his entire life and died at the age of eighty-three years. Emigrating to America, he landed at Nova Scotia and thence went to Can- ada, where he spent the remainder of his days. He was a member of the Piesbjtcrian Church and was highly regarded by all. His wife has also been called to her final rest. The surviving mem- l)ers of their familj- are: James, of tliis sketch; Alexander, who is married and follows farming in the village of Kem|)tville, Canada; and Mary, wife of William Fraser, a Scotchman l)y birth, now engaged in farming. Our subject acquired his early education in the common schools, being under tlie instruction of AVilliam Bower f(u- twelve years. Tlie three R"s constituted the curriculum of study in those days, but they were well drilled in those branches, especiallj' in mathematics. When ^Ir. Smith left school he had a good education in the common branches. On the 8th of November, 1849, he led to the marriage altar Miss Eliza McKelvej-, a na- tive of St. Lawrence Count}', N. Y., and a daugh- ter of William and Jane (Carson) McKelvey. Her father was a native of Ireland, and, on emigrat- ing to America, located in Southern Illinois, where he followed farming for about thirty-seven years, until his death, which occurred in the sixty- seventh \earof his age. Both he and his wife were members of the Reformed Presbj'terian Church. Mrs. Smith was educated in the common schools, and for about seven terms engaged in teaching in New York, having to "lioard 'round" among the scholars of the district. Seven children were born unto our sulijeet and his wife. The eldest, the Rev. William A. Smith, was educated at Wabash College, of Crawfords- ville, Ind., and at Lane's Theological Seminaiy. He married Miss Lula Keats, a native of Missouri, and is the pastor of the Presliyterian Church of Savanuah, that State. He has traveled through tlie Holy Land, visiting many of the scenes of Bible history, and in his journeyings also went to ]\It. Vesuvius, Pompeii, Glasgow, Rome, Paris, London and Naples. After his return, he com- piled a work, entitled, "From Occident to Orient," which he dedicated to his mother in the following words: "To the mother whose tender care and prayerful interest have ever followed me through childhood's little griefs, the temptations of young manhood, tiie joj's and sorrows of more mature years and the perils of travel in foreign lands; as well as to the multitude of personal friends with whom we have been more or less associated iu times past, is this little volume affectionately inscribed by the author." The Rev. Mr. Smith is a scholar of [)rofouiid thought, and has the highest re- gard of his people and the esteem and confidence of- all who know him. The next child, Jane, is the wife of A. T. Light, an agriculturist. John P., who was educated iu the common schools and at the Valpa- raiso School of Telegraphy and Book-keeiiing, acted as Station Agent at Cornlaud, on the Illinois Cen- tral Railroad, for nearly eight years, Init is now an enterprising l)usiness man of Roberts, 111., dealing in grain, coai and farm implements. He married Miss Sadie Day, a native of Illinois. Mary, wife of Ransom ISIontague, is a teacher of abilit)' and her husband is a farmer of North Da- kota. Margaret, who obtained a teacher's certifi- cate at the age of fifteen and successfullv followed PORTEAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 443 that profession in Forrl County, is now tlie wife of William Curry, in Patton Township. David, wlio is engaged in the manufacture of dry-pressed brit'k in Brunswick, Mo., married Miss Alice Swanick; who died recently. James R. is asso- ciated in business with his brother in Brunswick, Mo., as president of the Urunswick Hrick and Tile Company. Not long after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Smith determined to try their fortime in the West and went to Southern Illinois, but after ten days spent in au uninviting region they con- cluded to go back to Canada and located at Queen's Bush, where Mr. Smith engaged in mer- eliandising. Tliat venture, however, proved a failure for ho was unable to make collections. On the 2d of May, 1859, he went to Onarga, 111., and thence came to Lyman Township, where he made a claim of half a section of land. After six months, his wife joined him with their five little children. There were nian\- hardships and priva- tions to be borne. Prairie fires were a source of terror to the early settlers and the home and premises were always plowed around to keep the flames from crossing to their land. On one oc- casion, Mr. Smith was in the dooryard when a pack of prairie wolves came rushing upon him. He ran into the house, shut the door and, going upstairs, opened the window and fired upon the animals, but failed to drive them away. In the morning he found that the wolves had broken into his hen house and destroyed all of his chickens but two. Deer were plentiful, and on one occasion he saw a drove of twenty -seven. Many of the towns and villages had not sprung into existence. The first school, called the Mars- den School, was located on section 2, and its pa- trons came from the whole township. The cold winter of 1862-63 is never to be for- gotten. On the last day of 1862, Mr. Smith went to school for his son, taking buffalo robes and shawls to protect him, but a terrible blizzard came on, and it was almost impossible to keep from freezing. Many did lose tlieir lives on that memorable night. In politics, Mr. Smith has been a stalwart Republican since he cast his first Presi- dential vote for Abraham Lincoln. For fifteen years he served as School Director, and the cause of education has ever found in him a warm friend. He and his wife are members of the Presliyterian Church and are kindly, l)enevolent people, from whose door the [loor are never turned empty- handed. Their U[)right lives have won them the love of all, and none are held in higher esteem than these honored pioneers. They are now liv- ing retired in Roberts, where they have a nice home, and are also the owners of one hundred and sixty acres of land in Lyman Township. -^^ WAN I. HOLMQUEST, a carpenter and joiner of Paxton, whose residence in Ford County covers the long period of twenty- nine years, is a self-made man who, b3' his own efforts, has worked his w.ay upward from a humble position to one of prominence. A na- tive of Sweden, he was born on the 1st of May, 1830, and is a son of Swan .Tohnson, who spent his entire life in that countiy. Our subject had but limited school privileges, his education having been mostly acquired since he has attained to mature years. He learned the trade of a carpenter and builder in his native land, serving three years as an api)rentice and working four years at his trade ere he emigrated to Amer- ica. He was also married in his native land, in April, 1854, and soon afterward brought his young bride to this country. They boarded a vessel at Gottenburg, and at Liverpool took passage on a Western-bound sailing-vessel, which at length dropped anchor in the harbor of New York, on the 10th of August, after seven long weeks spent upon the bosom of the Atlantic, during which they encountered some severe weather. Mr. Holm- quest made his first location at Hempstead, L. I., where he worked on a farm for a few months and then engaged in carpentering. About a year later, in August, 1855, our sub- ject removed to Chicago and followed his trade in the employ of the Rock Island IJailroad Com- pany, working at bridge construction and the building of depots for about four years. He then 444 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. engaged with a bridge constructing company and was sent Soutli, worliing in Alabama and Missis- sippi for about two years, after which he returned to his home and family in Chicago and resumed carpenter work, following the same in tiiat city for a period of three years. In December, 1863, Mr. Holmquest came to Paxton, where he worked at his trade for two years, and in 1866 removed to a farm which lie had purcliased ere becoming a resident of Ford Count3'. He greatl}' improved his land, residing tiiereon for two yeais, when he sold out, going to Champaign County, where he purchased another farm. After continuing its cultivation for two years, he rented his land and returned to Paxton, where he resumed carpenter work, which he followed until the autumn of 1869. In that year, J\lr. Holmquest, accompanied by his wife, returned to their native land, and spent many happy hours in visiting the scenes of their jouth and renewing old acquaintances. They re- mained in Sweden for about a 3'ear, and in the fall of 1870 again came to their adopted coun- trj', where Mr. Holmquest resumed agricultural pursuits on his farm in Champaign County. After three years he again rented his land, came with his family to Paxton and embarked in carpenter work in this city, where he has resided most of the time since. He has sold his farm in Champaign County and purchased land in Ford County, near Paxton, which he still owns — a valuable and well-improved farm. He has built for himself some eight resi- dences in this cit}', most all of which he has since sold. In politics, Mr. Holmquest is a Democrat. He cast his first Presidential vote for the Hon. Stephen A.Douglas, then supported Abraham Lincoln, but, since the war, has renewed his allegiance to the Democratic party and supported its men and measures. He has held several local offices of honor and trust, was elected and served six 3-ears as Township Commissioner, and for j-ears has been a member of the School Board. The cause of education and other worthy interests have al- ways received his hearty co-operation and sup- port. He and his wife and family are members of the Swedish Mission Lutheran Church, of which he was one of the original members. The suc- cess which has crowned the efforts of Mr. Holm- (juest has been but the just reward of his labors, for he has striven long and earnestl3' for success. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Holmquest were born five children: Thomas Heniy, who acquired a good education and now occupies a responsible posi- tion with the McCormick Manufacturing Com- pany, of Chicago; Charles G., who is working at the tinner's trade in Chicago; and Elleh Chris- tina, a j'ouug lad^- at home. The sons are both married and have families. Two children died in infancy. "iri OHN SKOG is one of the extensive land- owners of Patton Township. He resides on section 18, and his landed possessions airoregate some four hundred acres. There he has made his home since March, 1871, or for a period of twentj'-one j'cars. A native of Sweden, he was born on the 18th of May, 1832, and grew to manhood in that country. lie had but limited school privileges and the days of his boyhood and youth were spent in the usual manner of far- mer lad.". In 1865, he bade good-b3'c to his old home, and, with the determination of trying his fortune in the New World, sailed for America. He took pas- sage on a vessel at Gutenberg, and in the latter part of June arrived in New York. Among his fellow-passengers on that V03'age wag a 3'oung lad3-, Miss Clara Pearson, also a native of Sweden, and in the month of December following their arrival they were united in marriage, in Menard County, III. In that count3f, Mr. Skog was emplo3-ed as a farm iiand for about seven months and then rented land for two years. In 1870, he came to Ford County and purchased a farm in Patton Township, upon which he located in March, 1871. It then comprised only eighty acres and was but slightl3^ improved. He at once began its cultivation, also rented other land, and in partnership with his brother-in-law, Gus Pearson, bought and fanned another tract. He is now the owner of four hun- '-e^y. w, '^■ a^. ./ ^^ / 0^0X^1' G^^UOzo^. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 449 (Ired acres of aralilo laud and his farm is consid- ered one of the liucsl in tliat locality. The home is a substantial rcsidcuce, there are yood barns and other outbuildiuLi^s and the iniprovenieiits that are found on a model farm are not lacking on the >Skog homestead. Unto Mr. and Mrs Skog have been born six children, the eldest of whom, Jt)hn K., aids his father in the operation of tlie home farm; Freda is the wife of Ephraim Carlson, a resident of Hender- son Station; Edward, Clara, Amandus and Ueda are all at home. They also lost four children in early childhood. Mr. Skog anil his family are members of the Lutheran Cluirch, and in social circles they rank high, being well and favorably known throughout this comnuinit}'. Their home is the abode of hospitality and their many friends are sure to receive a hearty welcome as the}' cross its threshold. In his political afliliations, Mr. Skog is a Rei)ub- lican, having been a stanch advocate of that part3''s principles since he cast his first vote for Gen. Grant. However, he has never sought or desired public office, preferring to devote his en- tire time and attention to his business interests. From a humble position in life he has worked his way upward to one of affluence, overcoming all obstacles in his })atii and surmounting all difiicult- ies by his indomitable will and energy. In all his business dealings, his associates have found him straightforward and honorable, and as a man of sterling worth, he is held in high esteem by all with whom he has been brought in contact. ^^ EORGE T. ARENDS.a member of the firm of III (— -, lehl & Co., bankers of Melvin, was born in '^^i Peoria, 111., August 9, 1849, and is a son of Teis and Teda (Becker) Arends, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work. His parents were both natives of Gerinanj% and, leaving the Father- land, emigrated to America in 1847. They landed in New Orleans, La., where they spent one month, and then came North, making location in Peoria, 111., where the mother died when George T. was a 19 child. The father was afterward again married and with his family came to Ford County in 1870, settling in the township of I'oach Orchard. Our subject spent the da^-s of his lioyhood and ytiuth in the usual manner of farmer lads and attended the district schools. He began business for him- self in 1872, becoming a member of the lirm of Frasius, lehl & Co., dealers in grain, feed and coal in Melvin. That (inn continued until 1876, when Mr. Frasius retired and the business was continued b}' Messrs. lehl and Arends until the fall of 1890) when they sold out their elevator .and stock and engaged in banking, establishing the first bank at Melvin. They do liusiness under the firm name of lehl & Co. This firm owns seven farms, aggre- gating eleven hundred and twenty acres of land, and, with the exception of one farm of eighty acres in Wall Towiishiii and another of one hundred and sixty acres in SuUivant Township, all their land is in Peach Orchard Township. The}' began business as private bankers on a large real-estate security and by their long residence here, and by the reputation they have made as men of strict integrity and correct business principles, they have secnred the confidence and good-will of the public. While the bank is _yet new and the business in consequence not large, the institution is a much- needed adjunct to the business facilities of the town and will no doubt rapidly- grow in importance as its advantages are realized. On the 10th of December, 1874, ]\Ir. Arends was united in marriage in the town of L^'man, Ford County, to Miss Talea Weiss, who was born in Osefriesland, Hanover, Germany, September 5, 1851, and is a daughter, of William and Dina Weiss. She came to America with her parents when fifteen years of age. Eight children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Arends, five of whom, three sons and two daughters, are yet living, as follows: Teda Talea, born August 29, 1877; Andrew, July 24, 1879; Hannah, May 8, 1885; Frederick G., Novem- ber 1, 1887; Albert T., June 17, 1890. Three died in childhood: Willie, Dina E. and an infant. With the German Methodist Church of Melvin, Mr. and Mrs. Arends hold membership and, in his political afliliations, our subject is a Republican but has never sought or desired official preferment. 450 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. He has made his home in Melviu since 1872, or for a period of twenty consecutive years, and is liiglily respected as an upriglit and successful business man. ATTHEW SPEED] E, a retired fanner re- siding in Gibson Cit>', and one of the earl- iest settlers of Ford County, was born in Glenfoot, Parish of Abernethy, Perthshire, Scotland, February 14, 1819, his parents being An- drew and Ellen (Crighton) Speedie. On both sides, the families had lived in that neigliborhood for over three iiundred years. The father followed weaving in the winter and seineing fish in the sum- mer. He was a wortliy man, and became well-to- do. Both himself and wife were members of the Presbyterian Church. Their death occurred in the Old Countrv at the ages of eighty-four and seventy- four years, respectively. In their family were ten children, seven sons and three daughters, but only two are now living. These two were tlie only ones who came to the United States. David, who lives in Talbot Count}', Md., has been an extensive landscape gardener, but is now a farmer. Another son of the above worthy couple, Alexander, be- came the most extensive fisherman in Scotland, paying a yearly rental of $55,000. A third son, William, a teacher by |)rofession, died in Canada. The remainder of tlie family spent their lives in their native land. Our subject was tlie eighth ciiikl in order of birth. He acquired a common-school education, and when about fifteen years of age, entered upon a three 3-ears' apprenticeship at the wagon maker's trade. His term having expired, he then served three years at the millwright and carpenter's trade. For that six years" work he received only his board i and had to furnish bis own tools and pay his tui- tion in school. He worked as a journeyman until his emigration to the United States. On the I2th of June, 1840, Mr. Speedie was joined in wedlock with Elizabeth .Jack, who died on the 28th of February, 1844, leaving one child, Andrew, who is now a farmer of Dix Township. On the 11th of June, 1847, he wedded Isabella Col- ston, a native of Fifeshire,' Scotland, born October 10, 1820. She is one of nine children, six sons and three daughters, whose parents were Thomas and Rachel (Baxter) Colston. She is the eldest of the three children that are now living, and is the only one of her family that came to the United States. In 1840, Mr. Speedie, accompanied by his wife and children, sailed for America, and after a stormy voyage of forty -two daj-s, during forty days of which our subject was sea-sick, they landed at Pictou, Nova Scotia. There was a hogshead of brandy on board, and of this the captain and first mate (lartook too freely, being intoxicated during nearly the entire voyage, and had it not been for the second mate, all on board would have been lost. After some five months spent in Nova Sco- tia, Mr. Speedie went to Providence, R. I., but not getting into business there, he obtained the posi- tion of engineer at Fall River, Mass.. and for six- teen years was employed as millwright for the Globe Printing Company. About 1855, his brother David came to Ford County and purchased a quar- ter-section of land for himself and our subject at $8 per acre. In 1865, Matthew Speedie removed to Logan County. 111., where he left his family un- til he could break a part of his land in this county and build thereon. It was in 1866 that he re- moved to his farm, which he still owns, having bought his brother's interest in the same. He laid the first tile in Ford Count}-, paying 835 per thou- sand for three-inch tile, and made his place one of the best farms in this part of the State. He con- tinued its cultivation with good success until 1887, when he removed to Gibson City, to enjoy a well- earned rest. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Speedie were born four chil- dren: David, who is now a farmer of Dix Town- ship; Isabella J., wife of John S. Martin, a resi- dent of Allen County, Kan.; William T., who is engaged in farming in Dix Township; and INIary E., wife of Jacob Preston, a resident of Gibson City. Mr. Speedie has been a life-long Republican, but has never been a politician in the sense of office- seeking. In the cause of Christianity, he, his wife and all the children are zealous workers, being PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 451 members of the Presbyterian Cliiurh, in wliioli lie is a Ruling Elder. Not only by profession, but by consistent ('liristi.an lives, tliey haveset fortli tlieir faitii m (iod and the trutlis of the Bible. Few set- tlers have k)nger resided in Ford County tlian Mr. and Mrs. .Speedie, and for tlieir true worth none are more highlv esteemed. E^ ROF. P:1)WARI) A. GARDNER, County III Superinti'iident of Sciiools of Ford C'oiinty, and a well-known citizen of Paxton, was born in Westmoreland County, Pa., De- cember 29, 18(il, and is a son of Samuel and Jane (Hill) Gardner. His father, who was of Scotcli- Irish descent, was born in the same county as the son, and is still engaged in farming in Westmore- land County, of which place the mother was also a native. Prof. Gardner received his primary education in the district schools of the neigliborhood near his home, and afterward attended Mariile Academy, of Markle, Pa., and, at the age of seventeen, was engaged in teach.ing school. In 1883, he came to Illinois and settled in Ford Count}-. Not con- tent with the advantages he had already received, he took a course of study at the Paxton Normal and Collegiate Institute, now the Rice Collegiate Institute, and afterward engaged in teaching school in this county. He was very successful as an instructor. For one year he was Principal of the Elliott School, and for two years was Principal of the Caldwell School, Kansas. After teaching two 3^ears in the Paxton High School, he was chosen Principal of the same, which position he held two years. In November, 1890, he was elected to the otHce of County Superintendent, and entered upon the duties of the office in December of that year. There are one hundred and seven schools under his supervision, and he is proving himself fully competent to have them in charge. On the 27th of October, 1891, in his native county in Pennsylvania, Prof. Gardner led to the marriage altar Jliss Eva Alice Ross, a daughter of George W. and E ther A. (Irwin) Ross. Mr. Gardner is a Knight Templar Mason. He is a member and the present Master of Paxton Lodge No. 416, A. F. A A. M.; and is a member and officer of F^ord Chapter No. 11.3, R. A. M. ; also belongs to Mt. Olivet Commander}- No. 38, K. T., all of Paxton; and of Gibson Council No. 72, R. & S. BI.; also of Paxton Camp of the Modern Wood- men ot America. Himself and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Paxton. Prof. Gardner is an experienced educator, having been a te.acher for eleven 3-ears, during which time he was principal of several graded and High Schools. During his administration of the office of County Superintendent, he has proved himself very capable and attentive to the duties of the position, whereliy he has won much [)i'aise and personal popularity. lf|_^ ARRY LEA GREGORY, of the firm of H. |/ L. Gregorj' & Co., dealers in dry-goods, cloaks, boots, shoes, carpets, etc., is num- bered among the leading business men of Gibson Cily. He is a native of Marshall Countj^, 111., born on the 9tli of F'ebruary, 18.57, and is a son of Harrison and Mar}- (Sivers) Gregory, who emigrated to Peoria County, 111., among the early settlers. The father was a well-to-do farmer, mak- ing that calling his life work. About the year 1867, he removed to Henry, Marshall County, 111. Him- self and wife have both passed to their final rest, leaving six children to mourn their loss, three sons and three daughters. They were well known and highly esteemed citizens, worthy the resijcct of all \\iio knew them. Our subject is the ^^oungest of their family, and, until ten years of age, spent his time on a farm, and in attendance at the district schools, where he received his primary education. After the removal of his parents to Henry, he attended the public schools, where he completed his literary training. At the age of seventeen, he commenced clerking in a store and for fourteen years continued with one establishment, thus showing by his continued ser- vice that his duties were well and faithfully per- 452 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRArHICAL RECORD. formed. In 1887, be came to Gibson City, and on the 10th of November of that year began business under the style of the firm given above, and now has an excellent trade. During the five years which have passed since the opening of liis present store, he lias increased his stock until it is one of tlie largest carried in the city, and his store-room ex- ceeds any other in size, being 25x110 feet. Prior to leaving Henry, Mr. Gregory was united in marriage with Miss Ida Jones, a native of Mar- shall County, their union being celebrated on the 1st of May, 1878, and she is one of the estimable ladies of Gibson City. Unto this worthj^ couple have been born three children: J. II., p]thel Lea and Kirk W., all of whom are still living. Mrs. Gregory is a member of the Presbyterian Chuich, and an earnest and devoted worker in the cause of Christian! t}'. Politically, Mr. Gregory affiliates with the Re- publican party, of which he is a stalwart su|)porter, but has never sought or desired any official recog- nition, preferring to devote his time to his busi- ness, in which he has been quite successful. He is one of the self-made men of Gibson City, having accumulated what he has by his industry, perse- verance and good management. He may well be classed among the leading merchants of that place. '^ M ^ — "^ OSEPH WHORRALL, one of tlie prominent and influential citizens of Ford County, is engaged in general farming on section 32, Lyman Township. He owns and operates one hundred and sixty acres of valuable land, which is under a high state of cultivation and well improved. There are a comfortable home, good outbuildings and all the other accessories of a model farm, and the well-tilled fields and neat appearance of the place indicate the thrift and enterprise of the owner. Mr. "Whorrall is a native of Warwickshire, Eng- land. He was born January 11, 1835, and is the youngest child of William and Sarah (Yardley) AVhorrall. In the family were thirteen children, eight sons and five daughters, but he has only two brothers now living: Thomas, who is married and follows farming in Iowa; and George, who is married and resides in Chicago. The father was a stock-raiser in Engl.and. In 1853, he emigrated to America, and settled in Woodford County', 111., where he engaged in land speculation. He died in 1885, at the age of seventy -seven, and his wife died in 1862, at the age of seventy-four years. Their remains were interred in Rose Hill Ceme- tery, of Chicago. In the usual manner of farmer lads, our subject spent the days of his bo^'hood and 30Ulh, and when seventeen years of age bade good-bye to his old home and crossed the Atlantic to America. In company with his brother George, he sailed from Liverpool on tlie "Florida," and landed in New York in June, 1851. They came direct to Illinois, where Mr. Whorrall at once engaged in farming. He and his brother secured one liundred and sixty acres of raw prairie land six miles from Melaraora for $120, but it was entirely destitute of improvements. The lady who bears the name of Mrs. Whorrall was in her maidenhood Miss Deborah Manning. Their union was celebrated in November, 1857, and unto them have been born nine children, seven sons and two daughters, all of wiiom are yet liv- ing: Edwin, a photographer, who is married and resides in Chicago; Joseph E., a paper-hanger and painter, of Roberts; William, also a paper-hanger and painter, who is married and resides in Roberts; Eliz.abeth, wife of Oscar Roberts, a farmer; Sarah, wife of Cela Foster, of Roberts; Miles, who mar- ried Miss Maud E. Longmyer and resides on the old homestead; Walter, a watchmaker and jeweler living at home; Cliarles Herbert and Henry Arthur, who aid their father in the cultivation of the farm. Mr. Whorrall came with his family to Ford County in 1875, and has since been identified with its growth and upbuilding. He purchased one hundred and sixty acres of partiall}' improved land at i^35 per acre, which is now worth from ^65 to $100 per aci'e. The many improvements he li.as placed upon it and the highly cultivated state of the fields have made it valuable and de- sirable property. He also owns propertj' in Roberts, ^#- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 455 In politics, he is a Republican, and his first vote was cast for Abraham Lincoln, lie has served as a. Director of the public schools for five years, but has never been an office-seeker. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Church of Roberts, and are stanch advocates of temperance [irinciples. Tliey have given liberally to all worthy enter- prises, are charitable and benevolent people, and the poor and needy are never turned from their door empty-lianded. They have many friends, and their liorae is Icnown f.ir and wide for its hos- pitality. -^1= ^.^^^ /^^ HARLES BUCHHOLZ, senior memlier of the (if firm of Buchholz Bros., of Melvin, dealers in "^^^ grain, feed and coal, is a native of this State. Marsliall County was the place of liis birth and the date October 22, 1857. His parents are August and Caroline (Funte) Buchliolz, and a sketch of their lives is given elsewhere in this work. We now take up the personal history of our subject, who was reared upon a farm and acquired his education in the Melvin schools, also at tlie college of Val- paraiso, Ind., the Northern Indiana Normal. Be- ing now fitted for his life work, in tlie spring of 1885 he went to Jackson County, Minn., where he was employed in teacliing school for one 3'ear and then turned his attention to farming, which he followed with good success, being an industri- ous and enterprising agriculturist. In August, 1887, Mr. Buchholz led to the mar- riage altar Miss Lillie Fletcher, tlieir union being celebrated in Osceola County, Iowa. Tlie lady was born in Kendall County, 111., and is a daughter of Joseph and Sarah Fletcher. Two children liave been born of their union, a son and daugliter: Millie, who was born November 16, 1888, and Fletcher, on the 2d of July, 1890. Both were born in Jackson Countj', Minn. Mr. Buchholz continued to engage in farming in that county until the autumn of 1891, when he re- turned to Melvin and eml>arked in liis jjresent line of trade in company with his brotlier William. This firm liought out the old established firm of lehl & Co. The Buchholz Bros, do an annual bus- iness amounting to $125,000 and upwards and are held to be among tlie largest dealers in their line in the county. They were both reared from child- hood in Melvin, enjoy a wide acquaintance in the country adjacent, and are esteemed as upright and honorable men. iJIOMAS O. THOMPSON, who is engaged in general farming on section 29, Patton ^^^ Township, is a Norwegian by birth. He first opened his eyes to the light of day on the 11th of August, 1847. He was reared to manhood on a farm and as soon as old enough began to aid in its cultivation. When he reached that period when it was necessary for him to begin life for him- self, he determined to seek a home in the New World, and, in 1868, crossed the Atlantic on a sailing-vessel, wiiich left harbor in the latter part of April, and after six weeks and three days spent upon the broad Atlantic, a pleasant voyage on the whole, arrived at Quebec, Canada. Soon afterwards, ISIr. Thompson came to Illinois, locating in Leland, La Salle County, where he had a sister and other friends living. He then began work upon a farm and was employed by tlie montii as a farm liand for seven >'ears. On the exi^iration of that period, he rented land in La Salle County, which he operated for a year. As a coinpanion and lielpmate on life's journey, he chose Miss Me- linda Bergeson, who is also a native of Norway, and during her infancy was brought to this coun- try by her father, Ole Bergeson, who settled in La Salle County, where she was reared and educated. Their marriage was celebrated in tliat county on the 1st of March, 1866, and they began their do- mestic life upon a rented farm in Vermilion County, where they resided for a j'car. It was in the spring of 1877 that they came to Ford County, where Mr. Thompson purchased a tract of land of one hundred and nine acres, his present home. He lias since here engaged in farm- ing and has bought an additional eighty-acre tract of land across the road on section 20. A good 456 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. farm of one himdied and eighty-nine acres now paj's a golden tribute to the care and cultivation which the owner bestows upon it. The nian^' good improvements there seen and the well-tilh^d fields all indicate his thrift and enterprise and tell of the busy and useful life spent in honoral^le labor. He gives his entire attention to his business interests, never having taken an active part in public affairs, save in faithfull3' discliarging his duties of citizen- ship. He votes with the Republican party, having been one of its sui)porters since he cast his first Presidential ballot for James A. Garfield. Himself and wife are members of the Lutheran Church. Unto this worthy couple have lieen born six children: iMartin O., Olvin I?., Cora Josephine, Melvin T., Ruby M., and Amos H. The family has resided in Ford County for fifteen years, and the parents are well known as people of sterling worth, well deserving the regard of their many friends. _^]- -^- T^^ (3_ t^ Vi 'AMES H. WHITE, a general grocer of Gib- son Citj', estalilished business at that place in June, 187S>, and has now a large and lu- _ crative trade. He was born in Leith, Scot- land, June .30, 1858, and is a son of James and Agnes (Main) AVhite, both natives of the same countr}'. The father was born in Boness, Scotland, on the 15th of April, 1815, and his wife, who was over four years his junior, was born January 31, 1820, and died on the 12th of February, 1883, respected b}' all who knew her. She was descended from an old Scotch family that traces its ancestry back for six hundred years. The father of our subject is still living and resides in Susquehanna, Pa., where he made his home on first emigrating to America, in 1865. James II. "Wiiite came with his parents to this country and here received his education in the graded schools of Susquehanna, Pa. For two yeai'S he was engaged in a twine factory in Xenia, Ohio, going to that city in 1877, but he came to Gibson City in 1879, and here l>egan business, as before mentioned, liefore he had attained his m.ajor- ity. He lias carried on the grocery trade ever since and has built up a large and prosperous business. He began in a small way but has now one of the best stores in Gibson and has made all that he has ly his own unaided efforts. In Xenia, Ohio, Mr. White was united in mar- riage, on the 30th of December, 1880, with Miss Rachel C. Thompson, a daughter of .Tohn Thomp- son. Her father was a soldier in the late war and laid down his life on tlie altar of his countr3'. Mrs. White is a native of the Buckeye State, born in Xenia, and liy her marriage has become the mother of two children, daughters: jNIaud Ellen and Ethel Agnes, both born in Gibson. Tiie par- ents are members of the Presbyterian Churcli and take an active interest in its work. In politics, Mr. White is a stanch supporter of the Republican party and has been a member of the Village Board. He helped to organize the Gibson Building and Loan Association, and served as its President one year, while for another year he was its Vice-president. He is a member of all of the Masonic bodies of Gibson City and also holds membership with Mt. Olivet Commandery No. 38, K. T., of Paxton. He stands very high both in business and social circles and is one of the highly respected citizens of Ford County. He IS enterprising and progressive, and well worthy the confidence he receives. ». ,W>«y>p t i >h i ON. NORMAN EDMUND STEVENS, pro- ''^ ])rietor, editor and publisher of the Paxton Record, the leading paper in Ford County, ■^ established his office in I'axton in January, 1865, and has since been actively engaged in llie publication of the Record, covering a period of twenty-seven years. He began with a very modest outfit, when the county was sparselj' settled, and has increased his facilities for business as the growth of Ford and adjoining counties developed a demand, until he now has one of the most com- plete printing establishments in Eastern and Cen- tral Illinois. The Record is a weekly Republican journal, 38x40 inclies in size, and an eight-column ii #=i# ■7/ o I i PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 457 quarto in form. It is printed on a steam press and has a circulation of fifteen Imndred. The office occupies the ground Hooi of a two-story bricl^, has three steam presses and a complete modern outfit for newspajier and job work. It has undoubtedly the best and most extensive facilities for job work of any office in this section of tlie State. The office and building, which are the property of the pub- lisher, are estimated to be worth $12,000. Mr. Stevens was born in what is now the city of Kent, Portage Count3', Ohio, on the 25th of April, 1834, and is a son of Marcus and Orpha (Phelps) Stevens, the parents being pioneers of that region. The families of both emigrated from Springfield, Mass., and settled in Portage County, Ohio, in 1808. Marcus Stevens, who was in moderate cir- cumstances, died when his son Norman E. was but five 3'ears of age from the effects of a freezing of the extremities during exposure in severe winter weather. His death occurred in May, 1840, and he left a wife and five small children, all boj'S. The family continued to live at the old home, but through necessity, the sons, as they attained the age of ten years, were put out to live with farmers, where they had to work for their own support, getting but limited opportunities for education. In accordance with this rule, Norman E., at the age of ten, began life for himself as a farm hand. The mother married again after the lapse of some fourteen years, her second husband being David McBride. They made their home in Oberlin,Ohio, the better to educate the younger children, and subsequently removed to Sparta, Wis., where the husband died in 1880, aged eighty-two j'ears, while the wife passed away in 1886, at the age of eight^'-three. When our subject was a lad of fif- teen, he left the farm and went to Oberlin with the view of attending college, but after a year and a half of study was obliged to suspend his schooling to earn the means of support. With the end in view of resuming his studies, he decided to learn the printer's trade, and, when not quite seventeen, he apprenticed himself to the publisher of the Elyria (Ohio) Courier. On the office being destroyed by fire some months later, Mr. Stevens went to Cleve- land, Ohio, and secured a situation in the office of the Daibj Forest City, which was edited by Joseph Medill, since more widely known as the editor of the Chicago Tribune. Subsequently, the /)«% iJ'or- est City was merged with the Free Democrat, the two constituting the Cleveland Z/eacfer. In that office our subject completed his trade as a printer, and in 1852 removed t() Jefferson, Ashtabula County, Ohio, and engaged in the office of the Ashtabula County Democrat, then published by Bennett Loomis. After working for nearly two years and drawing but a small portion of his salary he was obliged to bu}'' the office or lose his accumulated earnings. The Demo- crat was a Douglas paper and was sufiported largely by Democrats. The political views of Stephen A. Douglas being distasteful to Mr. Stevens, he sold out the De)iiocrat in 1854 and went to AVatertown, Wis., where he bought a half-interest in the Chron- icle and became a member of the firm of Rose & Stevens, publishers. That paper supported Fre- mont for the Presidency in 1856. On the 19tli of March, 1857, j\Ir. Stevens was married in that city to Mrs. Adda II. McMillen, widow of Milo C. McMillen, and a daughter of James Clark, Esq., of Livonia, N. Y. The fol- lowing August, he sold his interest in the Chronicle, taking up his residence in Reed's Landing, a wide- awake lumbering and shipping point on the Upper Mississippi. There he established the Wabasha County Herald, a weekly Republican paper, which he conducted successfully until the fall of 1863, when he sold out and removed to Chicago. He worked at his trade in that city until January, 1865, when he came to Paxton and established the Paxton Record, which he has since conducted with signal success. The Record has always been thor- oughly Republican, doing the best service in sup- port of that party, but it has also been sincerely and earnestly devoted to local interests in the broadest sense of the term, and has won a strong hold upon the good-will of its patrons. While active in the arena of politics as a writer and worker, Mr. Stevens has not been an asjjirant for the honors or emoluments of pulilic office. In the fall of 1878, he was nominated for Representative to the Illinois Assembly against his wishes, and was duly elected. He faithfully represented the district and did good work on important commitees. Prior to the succeeding election, he was urged to 458 PORTEAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. accept a ru-noinination but declined the honor. With the exception of holding some minor offices, he has not since been connected with public ser- vice. By her first marriage, Mrs. Stevens had two daughters and a son: Leonore H., who became the wife of Henry Kelsey, publisher of the Times in Olivia, Minn., where they reside with their fam- ily of nine children; Belle E. became the wife of Abram Croft and died in Paxton in 1881; Willis, the only sou, is married, and is engaged in the real-estate business in San Francisco, Cal. To Mr. and Mrs. N. E. Stevens two sons were born: Edgar N., who is single, is tlie present Postmaster of Pax- ton and is associated in business with his father in the publication of the liecord; H. Arthur is editor and proprietor of tlie Auburn Z>/sjwfc7i, of Auburn, De Kalb Count3', Ind. He married Miss Minnie Hefner, daughter of H. C. Hefner, of Paxton, and has one son, Harold H. N. E. Stevens is an Odd Fellow, a charter mem- ber of Paxton IjOdge, and is a Knight Templar Mason, while, in religious belief, he and his famil}^ are Congregationalists. In the twenty-seven years that he has been publishing the Record, Mr. Ste- vens has advocated with ability and fearlessness that which he thought to be right in every cause that affected the best interests and welfare of tlie community where he resides, and of humanity in general. While in the heat of political campaigns he has fired hot shot into the ranks of the enemy, he has retained the respect and regard of those whom he opposed and has won the good-will and confidence of his fellow-citizens in general. All worthy public enterprises have ever received from his pen a cordial and earnest support, and his influ- ence for good is recognized l)v all. v_ ♦=s^^» / -^., W. KJELLSTRAND,who for a quarter of (@WJ I| a century has made his home in Paxton, is one of the worthy citizens that Sweden has furnished to Illinois. He was born in that country July 15, 1832, and is a son of C. A. Kjellstrand, who was also a native of Sweden, and there spent his entire life. Our subject passed the days of his boyhood and youth in the land of his nativity and received good educational ad- vantages in its schools. He then learned the paint- er's trade, serving a five-j'ears' apprenticeship, after which lie worked at the business for ten years before emigrating to America. As a companion and helpmate on life's journey, Mr. Kjellstrand chose Jliss C. H. Gunnarson, also a native of Sweden, their union being celebrated in February, 1859. Ten years later, he bade good- bye to his home and on a steamer sailed from Got- ten burg to London. He crossed England by rail to Liverpool, and from thence took passage to New York, where he arrived in April, of that year. His first location was made in Silver Creek, in the western part of the Empire State, where he re- mained for about two months and a half. He reached Illinois on the 2d of July following, and, making a location in Paxton, embarked in business in the line of his chosen trade. Being pleased with the country and feeling that prospects were good, he sent for his family, who were still residing in Sweden, and on the 14th of June, 1870, was joined by his wife and four sons, the eldest of whom was then ten 3"ears old, the youngest a lad of four summers. Since that time the}' have lost two children: C. W., who died at the age of nine- teen years, and J. T., who died in his tenth year. The elder son now living is C. J. A., who married, and follows merchandising in Paxton. The j'ounger, A. W., is professor of languages in Betany College, of Lindsborg, Kan. He is a man of superior edu- cation and of their sons the parents may well be proud. On the arrival of his family, Mr. Kjellstrand began work with renewed energy and has since fol- lowed his trade, his enterprise and industrj- gain- ing for him a nice home and comfortable income, together with a large and constantly increasing bus- iness. His success has been due entirely to his own efforts and he certainly deserves great credit for it. Himself and wife are active workers in the Evan- gelical Lutheran Church, in which he has been an officer for fifteen years. He is now a member of the School Board and the cause of education finds a-* 1^^ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 461 in liim a warm friend. As a puhlic-si^iritod and progressive citizen, lie gives his hearty support to all that is calculated to benefit the community or promote the general welfare. In i)olitics, he cast his lirst vote for Geu. U. S. (hant, and has sup- ported every Presidential candidate of the Repub- lican party since that time. Among the peoijle of this community he has lived a blameless life and has thereb3' won the confidence and esteem of a large circle of friends and acquaintances. "■f -- ^>-^^— EDWARD WUNDP:R is one of the prominent farmers of Wall Township, residing on sec- tion 20. lie has made his home in Ford Count}' for twenty-one years and well deserves representation in this volume. A native of Mar- shall County, 111., he was born July G, 1858, and is the seventh in a family of nine children. The par- rents, Jolm and Margaret (Dyerling) Wnuder, were both natives of the Province of Byron, Germany. The father has followed farming throughout his entire life. He is still living, at the age of sev- enty-two years. His wife passed away in March, 1882. Six of their ciiildren are yet living: George, who is represented elsewhere in this volume; Mag- gie, wife of George Trundley, a farmer residing in Iroquois County; Andrew, who is deceased; Henry, who is married and resides in Ottawa, 111.; John, who died in infancy; the next child died in in- fancy; Edward, of this sketch; Samuel, who is married and follows farming in Canada, and Peter, who is a resident of the .same locality. Our subject has spent the greater part of his life in Ford County. He was educated in both German and English schools. Mr. Wiinder is truly a self- made man for he started out in life empty-ii.anded and by his own exertions has worked his way up- ward. With his only dollar, he purch.ased a hog, and the investment proved a profitable one. Since that time his career has been generally successful. He lias had to overcome some obstacles and disad- vantages, but by industry and good management has secured for liinisclf a handsome competence which numbers him among the substantial citizens of the community. On the 24th of December, 1882, Mr. Wunder was united in marriage to Miss Cora Pearl Sharp, who was born September 9, 1866, and is a daugiiter of (Jeorge and Sarah ( Austin) .Siiarp, botii of wiioni are natives of the Empire State. Her parents are still living. Mr. Sharp, who is now fifty-nine years of age, is engaged in agricultural pursuits in Walworth County, Wis. In politics, he is a Democrat. By the union of our subject and his wife four children have been born, two sons and two daughters: (ieorge Edward, eight years of age; John W., now deceased; Imo, aged five, and Verna, deceased. Mr. Wunder cast liis first Presidential vote for Gen. Hancock and h.as since been a supporter of Deniociatic principles. He is now serving as School Director in his district and has been Clerk of the School Board. In religious belief, he is a Catholic, holding nieinl)ersliip with tiie church in Loda. 111., of which Father Lewis is pastor. He devotes his time and attention to the development of his fine farm, which comprises two hundred and ft)rty acres of land, partly in AVall and partly in Dix Township. He has a neat and comfortable home and the im- provements upon the place are such as are gener- ally seen upon a model farm. During his residence in the count}', Mr. Wunder has ever borne his part in its upliuilding and development, and has mani- fested a commendable interest in all tiiat pertains to its advancement. « felLLIAM R. TRICKEL, the oldest surviv- \/iJ// ^"8' pioneer of Ford Count}-, now residing y^^ in Paxton, is a native of Indiana. He was born near Vincennes, on the 21st of January, 1821, and is a son of Robert and Catherine (Ben- syl) Trickel. His father was born in Virginia, in 1795, and, in his youth, went to I'ickaway County, Ohio, where he was married. He afterward emi- grated, about 1819, to Indiana, and to Illinois in 1823, locating in Vermilion County, building a mill at Danville, whence he removed to Cham- paign County, in 1826. He there resided tvvelve years, or, until 1838, when he came to what is now 462 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Ford Count}', and settled at Trickel's Grove, so called after its fii'st settler. He subsequently be- came a resident of Green County, Wis., where his death occurred in 1877. AVilliani R. Trickel, whose name heads this rec- ord, was brought by his parents to Illinois in 1823, when a babe of two summers. Tlie family settled in A'ermilion County. He afterward accompanied them to Champaign County, and later came with them to what is now Button Township, Ford Count}', in 1838, the family locating at Trickel's Grove. He endured all the hardsliips and priva- tions of pioneer life, and has been an e}'e-witness of the growth of the county since the das'S of its earliest infancy. He was married in this county in 1848, the lady of his choice being Miss Catiier- ine Trickel, and unto them has been born a family of five children, who are yet living. INIr. Trickel made his home at Ten Mile Grove after liis marriage, where he engaged in merchan- dising, and also carried on a blacksmith and gun shop. He there continued to live until 1867, when he removed to Pax ton, where he still carries on a gun shop. We find in him a typical pioneer, and, althougii seventy-one years of age, his mem- ory is good and his intellect bright. He possesses a rare fund of information relative to pioneer days in this section of Illinois, which, unfortu- nately, is not adapted to this work. ANIEL H. STRINE is engaged in mer- chandising in Roberts. For many years he was connected with the agricultural in- terests of Ford County, and since coming to this community has been recognized as one of its prominent citizens. He was born in York County, Pa., May G, 1855. His father, Michael Strine, was born Februar}- 26, 1821, in the Keystone State, and was of German extraction. He started out in life empty-handed, but was very successful, and acquired a good property. In politics, he was a stalwart Republican, and himself and wife were de- vout members of the Evangelical Association. He married Salome Miller, who was born March 12, 1812, and died March 4, 1885. Mr. Strine died March 24, 1884. They had a family of three sons and four daughters: David, a clergyman, who is married and lives in Williamsport, Pa.; William, who is married and follows farming in York County, Pa.; Anna, wife of George Toomey, of High Spire, Daupliin County, Pa.; Maggie, wife of E. B. Miller, of St(.)rn] Lake, Iowa; Adeline, wife of Solomon llrich, an agriculturist of York Count}', Pa.; Sarah C, wife of George Crowl, of Dauphin County, Pa.; and Daniel, who completes the family. In presenting this sketcii of Mr. Strine, we re- cord the life work of a self-made man, who started out for himself at the age of twenty-two years, and, with no capital on which to depend, has worked his way upward, overcoming all obstacles, until lie is now numbered among the substantial citizens of the community. He began working on a farm at $8 per month, and continued to serve in that way until his inarri.ige. He was joined in wedlock, December 31, 1884, with Miss Florence Deems, who was born in Washington County, Pa., and reared in Putnam County, 111. Her parents, John and Eveline (Fitzsiramons) Deems, were na- tives of tlie Keystone State, the former born Sep- tember 27, 1822, and the latter August 11,1825. Tlioy now reside in Loda, 111., and are members of the Methodist Church. Mr. Deems is a retired farmer. The family numbered three sons and three daughters, but one son is now deceased. Ann, the eldest, is the wife of R. C. Anderson, a farmer of Ford County, 111.; William is married and resides in Hutcliinson, Kan.; .1. W. is married and follows farming in Kidder, Mo.; Mrs. Strine is next younger; Georgie is now deceased; and Dora is the wife of A. J. Lytic, a carpenter and joiner of Paxton. In 1875, Mr. Strine located in Wall Township, where he rented land for some time, and after- ward engaged in farming. He had many obsta- cles to overcome, yet steadily worked his way up- ward and won success. On .lanuary 18, 1892, he opened a store in Roberts, and now carries a full line of staple and fancy groceries, queensware and clothing. His stock is valued at $2,000. His fair PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 463 and honest dealing and liis courteous treatment of bis customers have already wou him a liberal pat- ronage, which has increased from the beginning. Mv. and Mrs. .Strine are Ijoth members of the Methodist Ciiureh and she belongs to the F"oreign Missionary Society. They have no children of their own, but have an adopted daughter, May, who is now nine years of age, and has resided with them for four years. In politics. Mr. Strine is a Republican, and cast his first Presidential vote for Rutherford B. Hayes. He was one of the Paxton delegation which paid a visit to Gen. Harrison. He is classed among the representative and pro- gressive citizens of Roberts, and is highly re- spected throughout the community where he has so long made his home. Industry, frugality and thrift have formed the rounds of the ladder by which he has mounted to the proud position which he to-day occupies. -^ ^'^••••^ -^ •jOBERTS' PUBLIC SCHOOLS. The school ijf district No. 5 was organized in 1868, and ^ the same year the schoolhouse was built on the southeast comer of section 16, Lyman Township. The first teacher was W. W. Graham, son of A. B. Graham, a highly respected farmer of this neighborhood. In 1872, after the village of Roberts was laid out, it was deemed proper to have the rural academy near the center of population, therefore the people voted to have the schoolhouse moved into the village. For several years, the school struggled on under the burden of a bonded debt and teachers of diverse efficiency. In 1876, having increased sufficiently in numerical strength and wealth, tiie Directors thought it necessary to have a teacher of more than ordinary qualifica- tions, so tliey ap|)lied to R. N. Gorsuch, then Count}' Superintendent, to send them an efficient teacher. The Superintendent urged F. G. Lohman, who had made an excellect record in a large coun- tr}- school, to go at once to Roberts. On the 7th of September, 1876, ;Mr. Lohman presented himself before two of the Directors and was employed for one mouth onl^', the Directors sajing that they had had so much bad luck in se- curing teachers that thev would employ perma- nently only on a month's trial. Mr. Lohman ac- cepted and began his labors on Tuesday morning, September 17. He at once began trying to raise the grade of the school. The enrollment was sixty-one the first day and the number was soon swelled to eighty-five, so that the task seemed almost hopeless. At the end of the month, he appeared before the Directors to ask if he should continue the work, and when told to do so urged the necessity of an assistant. The request was granted and ]\Iiss Helen Wycot¥ was employed as a primary teacher. From that time the school has steadily advanced in excellence. For a primary' room the Town Hall was rented and for years the lit- tle folks were kept there under the most unfavora- ble circumstances. Mr. Lohman remained in charge for five 3'ears, giving the school a new impetus and doing efficient and practical work. Many of his pupils afterward became excellent teachers. Among them. Miss Jennie Sackett, afterwaid Mrs. Law- rence Campbell, in a public examination for a teacher's certificate carried off the highest grade ever made by an ap|)licant up to that time. In 1882, the school retrograded under an inefficient teacher. The following year, 1883, F. E. Bonney was called to the work and rescued tlie school from the chaotic condition into which it had again lapsed after Mr. Lohman left it. He remained in charge for six j'ears. In 1881, a large .schoolhouse was built and another teacher added to the force. George Bloomer and W. R. Stone were next em- ployed, the former serving two years, the latter one year. Among the i)rimary teachers, Miss Madge Crowner was the most successful and filled the po- sition with credit for six 3-ears. She is one of the best primary teachers in Eastern Illinois. In 1892, F. G. Lohman, who in the meantime had served eight years as County Superintendent, was again called to the Principalship. Although the respective teachers had worked upon some sort of system, no grading had been attempted. When Mr. Lohman was again jjlaced at the head of the school, the Directors had him prepare a graded course of study, which was adopted and ordered published. The school is now in a flour- 464 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAIHICAL RECORD. isliing condition, and though the course adopted is not as extensive as courses in schools with eight or more teachers, yet it covers sufficient ground to fit young people for higher institutions of learning and for a practical, useful life. The success of the school is certainly due in a great degree to Prof. Lehman, and under the efHcient management of the present Directors, Christopher Anderson, J. P. Smith and Robert Chambers, the school will un- doubtedly be kept at a high standard and retain its excellent reputation. 1 ]UDSON CUBBUCK, one of the leading iiiio- tograpliers of Gibson City, was born in Ilor- nellsville, Steuben County, N. Y., on the ^^^ 19th of March, 1858, and is a son of Rev. John and Jerusha 15. (Ratlibun) Culil)uck. The Cubbuck family was founded m America by two brothers who escaped from England during Crom- well's reign and settled in Oneida Count}', N. Y. Their descendants have been largely given to the professional callings, being mostlj- doctors, law- j'ers, ministers and literary men. Rev. John Cubbuck, the father of our subject, was born in Oneida County, N. Y., in 1819, and on his grandmother's side was of German and French descent. When very young lie lost his father and was reared to manhood by his grandmother. At about the age of fifteen years, he entered the On- eida Herald office and there acquired most of his education. On account of failing health, he trav- eled for ten years as a reporter, visiting China, Japan, Farther India, Burmah, Australia, New Zea- land, Cape Colony, nearly every island of the Paci- fic, every country of South America and all the countries of Europe. While in Australia, he founded the Sydney Press, but returned to Lock- port, N. Y., and was associated with the Xi.agara Democrat. When St. Paul, Minn., was a mere vil- lage, he went thither and became connected with the St. Paul Democrat. Some three years later, he came to Ogle County, 111., where he owned a section of land, which he sold for fl.2o per acre. The fol- lowing year he went to Fremont, N. Y., and was ordained as a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church, tluiugh he preached but a short time. When the question of slavery came before the peo- ple, he took an active part in its discussion, and on the I)reaking out of the war enlisted in that strug- gle with nearly Iiis entire congregation. lie was offered a cliaplaincy, but refused it, desiring rather to enter the ranks. In iiis own words, he "went out to fight, not to pray," and became a mem- ber of Company C, Twenty-third New York In- fantry. At tlie battle of Antietam, he received several wounds, being injured by a ball cutting the cords on the back of his left hand; another ball entered his right elbow and came out back of his shoulder. Having fallen, a wagon ran over him, bruising him so badl}' that on .accfumt of his wounds he was discharged, and, returning home, lived some nine years, earning his livelihood by his pen. lie was an alile writer and a man of superior ability. lie died very suddenly, and his loss was deeply lamented liy all who knew him, for he was one of the true Christian gentlemen of the com- munity where he resided. In Steuben County, N. Y., Rev. .lohn Cubbuck was united in marriage to Miss .Terusha B. Rath- Inin. a native of that county. She is of English descent, her people being among the ear\y settlers of Connecticut. Her father, J. B. Rathbun, was a pioneer settler of Fremont, N. Y.. l)eing its first inhabitant. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Cubbuck were born eleven children, five sons and six daughters, all of whom are yet living. The mother still lives in Fremont, where she is highly esteemed for her many worthy qualities. Emily Frances Cubbuck, who wrote under the ;(r>wi dep/M^fie, "Fannie Fos- ter," was the wife of Dr. Adoniram Judson, the first Christian missionary to Burmah, and was an own cousin of Rev. John Cubbuck. Our suliject, Judson Cubbuck, is the sixth child in order of birth in the above fan-.ily, and his edu- cation was received at Alford University, in Alle- gan}' County, N. Y., but failing health caused him to leave the school before he had completed the course. Since thirteen years of age, he has made his own way in the world and when only fifteen gave lectures and recitals in public for the [)urpose of obtaining monev to attend school. In 1877, he '>' ,5 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 467 came to Ogle County, 111., teaching there for two 3'ears, and then went to South Dakota, wliere he taught the first school between Huron and Pierre. On the 14th of August, 1879, Mr. Cubbuck mar- ried Miss Lillie M. Alma, a native of Homer, N. Y., but she was called to her final rest the follow- ing spring, in Chicago. Going to Mc Lean County, 111., he there tauglit for four 3ears, his school standing the liighest in the county on examina- tion. Mr. Cubbuck was again married, .June 30, 1884, in Ilornellsville, N. Y., this time to jNIiss .Jen- nie Sutton, a d.aughter of William .Sutton, who hiis been a photographer of that city for thirty 3'ears, being one of the best artists in that part of the State. By this union has been born one child, Helen L. After tlie marriage of our subject, he re- turned to Illinois and again taught school for four years. Going back to New York, he learned the photographing business and in 1891 purchased a galler_v in Gibson City, of J. H. Ashby, which he has since conducted. Mr Cul)lnu'k is a Democrat in politics, and so- cially is a member of the Odd Fellows' lodge, the Sons of Veterans and the Order of Red Men. His wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in the work of which she takes an active part. Mr. Cubbuck has been a correspondent for some of the best newspapers of this country, con- tributing Ijoth prose and poetry. ^^IIOMAS D. THOMPSON, general merchant ///SN and Postmaster of ^Nlelvin, and one of its \^- earliest settlers, located in that place in September, 1871, and built the first residence there. Into it he moved with his family, and there his second son, Clyde, was born, the first white child liorn in the vill.age. ( )ur subject is a native of Monroe County, Ohio, where his birth occurred on the 4th of December, 1847. His i)arents, William and Catherine (Dyer) Thompson, are represented on another page of this work, in connection with .John M. Thompson's sketch. With the family, he came to Illinois in 1864, locating first in Marshall County, near New Rutland, La Salle County, where the father was engaged in farming. Thomas I). Thompson has been a resident of Illinois since 1864. He was reared to manhood upon his father's farm, an was set off and organ- ized during the fall of the year that Mr. Hunt made his home within its borders, and he was chosen and served as its first collector. He has also served for two years as Supervisor for that township, and has held other minor offices. An ei)isodc in his life worthy of commemoration was his trip to California during the gold excitement of 1849-50. He joined a party in the spring, 476 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. traveling by ox-teams across the plains to the gold fields, and engaged in mining with marked suc- cess. His work was one hundred and twelve feet below the surface of the earth. At the expiration of two years, with others, he was to start for New York, by way of the ocean and Panama route. The steamer by which thej' were to sail reached San Francisco in a disabled condition, and was likely to be detained some weelis for repairs; so the part}' took passage on a sailing-vessel. She proved a bad sailor, and, meeting with adverse winds, was out forty-six days. It then had to put in at Acapuloo, having made a voyage of fifteen hundred miles. Food and water became ex- hausted, and for many davs the passengers and crew were put on short rations, having only a half pint of water and a ship's biscuit each da^^ Their fare on the vessel was i<70 from Acapulco to Pan- ama, which they were obliged to pa}', besides the original fare of $175 from San Francisco to Pan- ama. After leavin-; P.anama, they reached New- Orleans without further mishap, and Mr. Hunt ar- rived at his home in Illinois in 1852, having been quite successful in his venture. In his political affiliations, Mr. Hunt is a Re- publican, and has voted for the national candidate of that party since its organization. He and his wife, also llieir children, are members of the Meth- odist Episcopal Church. No man in Ford County stands higher in the estimation of the people than the gentleman whose name heads this sketch. ^ lOBERT G. SMITH resides on section 16, Button Township, and is a native of New i\Y Jersey, born in Hunterdon County, -July ^ 12, 1842. His father, John R. Smith, was also a native of the same county and State, while his grandfather, Maj. A "W. Smith, was likewise a native of New Jersey, but of Scotch descent, and the father of the Major was among tlie first settlers of New Jersey and one of three brothers who came to this country from their native land. A. W. Smitli received his title of Major for service in the militia of his native State. John R. Smith also served in the militia. He married Sarah Carpenter, a native ot New Jersey and daughter of John Carpenter, one of the pioneers of Warren County, that State, but who was of German de- scent. He spent his entire life in his native county and followed the business of a farmer. He was a member of tlie Lutheran Church, of wliich body his wife was also a member. Both are now de- ceased. Robert G. Smith is one of a family of five chil- dren, who grew to maturity-, and is the youngest of three brothers. The eldest brother, AVilliam Smith, is a retired farmer residing in Rankin, Vermilion County, HI.; John C, deceased, left a wife; Rachel was the wife of Isaac B. Case, of Hunterdon County, N. J., of Pattenburgh; R. G. is next in order of birth; and Mary is the wife of Daniel I). Case, of Ogle County, 111. The subject of this sketch grew to manhood in his native county and was reared to farm pursuits. His education was received in the common schools. When but a young man, in 1866, he came to Ford County, III., and for two years worked by the month for farmers in adjoining counties. He was married in Delavan. Tazewell County, 111., Janu- ary 30, 1869, to Miss Lois La Bee, a native of Tazewell County, and a daughter of AVilliam La Bee, who came from New York, but was of French descent. After his marriage, our subject bought an eight3'-acre tract in Button Township, Ford County, on which there had been no improvements made. Improving the place, he remained on that farm for two years, and in 1876 sold out and bought the place where he now resides, a farm containing one hundred and sixty acres on section 16. This farm he fenced and tiled, and greatl}' improved the same. It lies two and a half miles from Clarence, and is a most valuable and desirable farm. ]\Ir. Smitli is recognized as one of the enterpris- ing and prosperous farmers of Ford County. In politics, he is a Republican and has been identified with that party since becoming a resident of Illinois. He has taken quite an active part in politics and held the office of Assessor of Button Township for four years. lie has always given his hearty support to the cause of education and is a strong advocate of PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 47' public schools. He served as a member of the School Board for about fifteen years. Mr. and Mis. Smith are members of tlie Presbyterian Church of Clarence, and he is one of its Trustees. They are the parents of two sons: Hairy R., a well-educated young man, is now helping to carry on the home farm; and Orville L., also engaged in helping to carry on the home farm. They have also lost one son, Clj'de, who died at the age of eight years, on the 27th of JIarch, 1876. Cora Culver, a niece of Mrs. Smith, is also a member of the family. Her mother, Amelia Culver, died in 1888, since which time she has lived with the fam- ily of our subject. Mr. Smith has lieen a resident of the county for a quarter of a century and is well known through- out the county. He is a man of sterling character and worth and enjoys the respect and esteem of all who know him. _os^ ^^^M^mm a3;vC20_ ■xrso" !)HEODORE .7. LARSON, resident partner and manager of the extensive and popular clothing house of P. Larson ' ■^AMES BLACKMORE, who resides on sec- tion 19, Patton Township, is one of the well-known and representative farmers of Ford County. He claims England as the land of his birth, and is the son of Jldward Black- more, a native of Devonshire, England. His father there grew to manhood, and was for years employed in a woolen factory. He married Martha Chick, also a native of Devonshire, and the}- reared their family in that county, and the parents also there spent their last days. In the family were three sons and three daughters, who are yet living. Our subject is the eldest. He was born in Devon- shire, May 13, 1833, and under the parental roof grew to manhood. He is both a self-educated, and self-made man financially. Childhood was not a playtime to him. At the age of six years, he en- 478 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. tered a woolen factory, where he worked until he was grown. Hearing that, this eountr}' offered belter advantages to ,voung men, he resolved to try his fortune in America, and, in 1857, left Plymouth on a sailing-vessel. He started from home on Easter Monday, and three days later tlie ship in which lie engaged passage weighed anchor and was soon out upon the broad Atlantic. The vo3'age lasted eight weeks, but at length Mr. Black- more arrived in Quebec, Canada, in June. He went from there to Orleans County, N. Y., where he was employed as a farm hand, this being his first experience as an agriculturist. He there re- sided for about a year, and, in the spring of 1858, emigrated Westward, locating in what is now Ford Count}', 111. Here he again worked upon a farm by the month, being thus employed for three j'ears, after which he rented land, raising his crops on shares. He then bought a team and contin- ued thus to farm until 1866. In November, 1865, Mr. Blackmore was united in marriiige with Mrs. Anna Perry, a native of Bedfordshire, England, and a daughter of Thomas Da}'. After their marriage, they removed to tiie farm upon which they now reside, and, after rent- ing for several years, Jlr. Blackmore made pur- chase of forty acres. He afterwards made other purchases, and is now the owner of one bundled and sixty acres of valuable land, highly improved. As it was in its primitive condition at the time of his purchase, he broke it, fenced it and tiansformed the raw prairie into rich and fertile fields. His own labor and enterprise have been the secret of his success. Mr. and Mrs. Blackmore have four children, and Mrs. Blackmore had Ave children by a former mar- riage: Rhoda, the eldest of the famil}', is the wife of Samuel Murdock; Sarah is the next 3'ounger; Annie is the wife of John Murdock; Albert A. died at tiie age of fourteen years; and Susan died at the age of five years. Of the four children of the Blackmore family: Edward died in the winter of 1887, at the age of twenty-one; Rose is at home; Martha is the wife of A. Flick; and David aids his father in the operation of the home farm. Since becoming a voter, Mr. Blackmore h.as ex- ercised his right of franchise in support of the Democratic party, but has never been an office- seeker. He takes an active interest in all that pertains to the welfare of the community and, as one of the earlj- settlers, has aided in the upbuild- ing of Ford County and done his part in the work of development and progress. He is accounted one of the valued citizens, as well as one of the leading agriculturists of the community ■#!• ,^ Vji> C. M. EiiFEVRE, M. D., an honored pio- lll neer of Ford County of 1856, was born in i Miami County, Ohio, January 11, 1814, and was a son of Christian LeFevre. His father was a native of Pennsylvania, and was of French descent on his father's and German on his mother's side. He married an Irish lady. Our subject was educated in Hanover College, of Indiana, and was a graduate of the Medical College of Ohio, in the Class of '41. lie was married in Troy, Ohio, June y, 1840, to Miss iNIartha Jewett. Mrs. LeFevre is a native of St. Johnsbury, Yt., born May 28, 1817, and is a daughter of Luther and Nancy Jewett. Upon his marriage, Dr. LeFevre located in Troy, Ohio, where he practiced his profession until 1848, when he removed with his family to Attica, Ind., and there built up a large and luciative practice. He resided in that city until 1856, when he came to Illinois. On coming to this State, he settled in what is now the township of Drummer, Ford County, but was then a part of Yermilion County, and there engaged in agricultural pursuits. One child, a son, was born to the Doctor and his wife, Samuel J., whose sketch appears on another page of this work. In political sentiment. Dr. LeFevre was an orig- inal Abolitionist, and was among the first to join the Republican party on its organization. Some seven years after the formation of Ford Count}', he was appointed to the office of County Su[>erintend- ent of Schools, to fill an unexpired term, and at the succeeding election he was elected to the same office, but was compelled to resign on account of ill health. The Doctor had a half-section, or three hundred and twenty acres, of land in Drummer /? ■--.^ a 'c:>-^c/U^ U I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 481 Township, and was engaged in farming and stock- raising up to the time of his deatli,whidi occurred on tlie 1st of December, 1869. He was one of the well-iinown citizens of this county and took a prominent part in its upbuilding and advance- ment. He was public-spirited and progressive and was highlj- esteemed for his sterling worth and integrity. Our subject and his vvife were botli consistent members of tlie Presbyterian Church and in its work took an active part. INIrs. LeFevre was a lady possessed of many excellencies of char- acter, and was called to her final rest a few years prior to the death of her husband, passing away in February, 18Gf), beloved by all who knew iier. ? MANUEL KERNS, a well-kn man of .Sibley, is a dealer iu , ?j farm implements. IIis life re well-known business hardware and record is as fol- lows: He was born in Ross County, Ohio, on the 8tli of November, 18;)2, and is a son of .John and Mary (Routt) Kerns, both of whom were of Ger- man extraction. His father was a native of Ohio, and was assassinated at or near Carlyle in this State, when Emanuel was but a child. His wife was also born in the Buckeye State and died about 18()5. Our subject is the seventh in order of birth of eight children. The eldest of the family is Benjamin, a farmer residing in the Buckeye State; Henry, who follows agricultural pursuits in Ross Count}-, Ohio; George, who died in 1862 at Cairo, 111., from the effects of hard service in the army, he having enlisted as a member of Company' A, Seventj'-third Ohio Infantry; Mary, wife of John Drake, a farmer residing in Ohio; Martha, twin sister of Mary, and the wife of .John Harrington, who resides in the city of Chilli- cothe, in the Buckeye State; Emanuel, of this sketch; and John, a carpenter and builder living in Sibley. The father of this family died in 1855, and the mother was called to her final rest in 1866. Our subject was only three years of age at the time of his father's death. His educational ad- vantages were very limited, and from an earl}- age he had to make Iiis own way in the world. ■ He be- gan life for himself as a farm-hand, working by the month, and was thus employed until twenty 3-ears of age, when he rented land, operating that farm for one year. During the succeeding year, he was foreman of quite a large farm, after which he be- gan work at the carpenter's trade and followed it continuously until 1890, being quite successful in that line. He has been a resident of Illinois since 1869, during which year lie located in Piatt County, 111., where he made his home until 1881. During that time, Mr. Kerns was united in mar- riage to Miss Martha Hettinger, a daughter of William and Margaret Hettinger, and the second in a family of eleven children, eight of whom are yet living: .James, the eldest, is married and re- sides in Champaign County, 111.; Nelson N. is mar- ried and follows farming in that county; William is also married and follows farming in Champaign County; Frank resides in Piatt Count}' and is mar- ried, but his wife is now deceased; Edward is mar- ried and follows farming in Champaign County; George is engaged in agricultural pursuits in Piatt County; and Oscar is also a farmer in that county. Mrs. Kerns was educated in the common schools and li.as been a valualile helpmate to her husband. Their union was celebrated March 29, 1874, and has been blessed with six children, namely: Lottie, Minnie, William E., Arthur N., Albert II. and Ro}- E. In 1881, Mr. Kerns removed to Strawu, 111., where he spent four years, working at his trade until 1885. He then came to Sibley and took charge of the building interests on the great Hiram Sibley estate, where he continued from April 1, 1885, to January 1, 1890. He is a most excellent work- man, and although he did an immense amount of work during that time, it was all perfectly satis- factory to the general manager of the estate. Mr. Kerns is also dealing in farm implements and hard- ware, and has a full line of buggies, carriages, phwtons, harness, etc., and a full line of builder's materials. His volume of business is large. He is a man of good business ability and his persistent industry and good management have won him a comfortable competence. In politics, Mr. Kerns is an ardent supporter of the Prohibition party, and in religious belief is a 482 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Methodist. He has served as Steward, Trustee and Treasurer of his church, and has been very active in Sunday -sciiool work, having served as Superin- tendent in Sibley for two years and in Strawn for the same period. He is President of theSullivant Township Sunday-school organization, and, since 1890, has been corresponding member of the Bloomington District Committee of the Young Men's Clu'istian Association. His labors have been productive of much good and his upright life has won him the confidence and high regard of all. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias Lodge No. 321, of Modern Woodmen Camp No. 1,136, and the Independent Order of Good Templars' Lodge No. 3fi3. P"or a period of three years he has filled the office of Justice of the Peace, and has served as President of the Board of Trustees of Sibley for the years 1890 and 1891. Mr. Kerns is , recognized as one of the leading citizens of this pl.ace and well deserves mention in the history of his adopted county. ,=o fT/_^^AMILTON .J. BAKROW, retired farmer and *^^^ early settler of Ford County, is now a resi- dent of Gibson C'it3\ He was born in Fred- crick County, Va., and is a son of Frederick and Sallie A. Barrow, both of whom were natives of the same State as our subject. The mother died when Hamilton was but four jears of age and also left two other sons: Andrew J., who was killed in the late war, and .lolni AV. After her death, the fa- ther was again united in marriage, .and in the year 1867 removed with his famil}' to what is now Dix Township, Ford County. Having purchased new land, he soon turned his attention to its develop- ment, and before his death was the owner of a fine farm, which was highly cultivated and improved. He passed from this life when well advanced in years, dying in the faith of the Methodist Episco- pal Church, of which he was a consistent member. In politics, he voted with the Democratic party. No event of special importance occurred during tlie boyhood of our subject, he being reared to manhood on his father's farm and attending the district schools of the neighborhood, where he se- cured a limited education. With his parents, he came to Ford County in 1867, and here worked for a year as a f.irm hand by the month. Five years later, Mr. Bari-ow returned to Virginia, and on the 27th of March, 1872, in Fauquier County, led to the marriage altar Miss Susan A. Bradford, a daughter of George and Marj- (Brook) Bradford, both natives of Virginia and of Eng- lish descent. In th.at State they both died, the father passing away at the age of sixty-two and the mother when fifty-five years of age. Mr. Bradford was a lineal des(endant of Gov. William Bradford, of Massachusetts, and a member of the New-light Baptist Church. In the early days, when the mili- tia used to muster, he held the office of First Lieu- tenant. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Bradford were born eleven children, of whom Mrs. Barrow was the eld- est, but three of that number are now deceased. She was born on the 18th of January, 1844, in Fauquier County, Va. Upon the marriage of our subject, he returned with his young bride to Ford County, where they began their domestic life in a frame house, 16x22 feet, without lath or pi.astcring. This was soon made comfortable and remained their home until they removed to Gibson City, which is the only removal since their marriage, By industry and good management, thay have accumulated a hand- some property, and their two hundred and twenty- seven acres of unimproved land are now cultivated and have become one of the best farms in the com- munity. In 1887, thej' removed to Gibson City, where they have an elegant house, surrounded by eight and a third acres of fine land. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Barrow were liorn three children: Anna Belle, Cari-ie Ma}' and Ciiarles Marshall. The parents hold membership with the Methodist Episcopal Church, and their eldest daughter with the Cumberland Presbyterian. Po- liticall}', Mr. Barrow is a stalwart Democrat and cast his first vote for Gen. McClellan. In July, 1861, he enlisted in Company C, Fifty-first Vir- ginia Inf.intry, C. S. A., and served some seven months. He participated in two minor engage- ments, in the second of which he was struck bv a PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 483 ball in the left cheek, passing through his head and coming out behind the right ear, thus disabling hnn for further service. Mr. Barrow is essentially a self-made men, making all he has b^- his own in- dustry and good business ability. rp5, LIAS A. STARE, proprietor of the Sibley «j Tile Factory, of Sibley, 111., and a well- I' — --^ known business man of Ford County, is one of the worth}- citizens that Pennsylvania has furnished to this State. He was born in York County, October 1, 1844, and is a son of Henry and Lydia (Auchenbaugh) Stare, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania, the former born November 19, 1790, and the latter September 14, 1807. In his early life, the father drove a team between Baltimore and Harrisburg, Pa., and after- ward engaged in farming. In politics, he was an old-line Whig until the organization of the Re- publican party, when he joined its ranks. His death occurred October 5, 1865, and his remains were interred in Liverpool, Pa. A beautiful stone stands at his head. After her husband's death, Mrs. Stare emigrated to Illinois and spent her last days in Decatur, dying on the 7th of April, 1879. The faniih- of this worthy couple numbered thirteen children: John, who died in 1892; Leah, wife of Henry Kain, a carpenter and builder of Decatur; George, who is living retired in Decatur; Harriet, wife of John JIarkley, a resident farmer of Macon County; Sarah, wife of John Knapp, of Decatur; Rudolph, who died in 1854; IMoses, who follows the trade of carpentering in Dec.itur; Lydia, wife of Robert Iliggins, a harness-maker, of Pawnee, 111.; Nancy, whose home is in Decatur; Lovey, wife of E. B. Eicholtz, a carpenter and builder residing in St. Louis, Mo.; Elias, of this sketch; Mary, wife of Taylor Blaine, whose home is in Decatur, and Willie, who died in infancy. No event of special importance occurred during the childhood days of our subject, which were spent upon his father's farm and in attendance at the district schools, where he ac(piircd a good English education. He started out in life for himself at the age of nineteen years, and emi- grating Westward, located in Decatur, 111., in 1864. He had learned the carpenter's trade and there followed that occupation until 1870, when he estalilishcd a lumber yard and also engaged in buying grain until 1874, when he sold out and went to the South. He first located in Dallas, Tex., and was one of the stockholders and erected a 1160,000 elevator at that place. He was Super- intendent until 1878, when, selling his interest in the elevator, he removed toGrayson County, Tex., and purchased a large tract of wild land, upon which he made many improvements, and there re- sided for a year and a half. His next place of residence was in Gainesville, Tex., where he en- gaged in the implement business until 1880, when he sold out and returned to the North. On once more locating in Decatur, he established a tile fac- tory, the first in Macoupin County, 111. In 1881, he sold out and came to Sibley, where he erected a tile factory which he still operates, manufactur- ing about a million and a half tiles annually. He also owns considerable property, including some valuable real estate in Chicago, and is recognized as one of the substantial citizens of the commu- nity. The lady who is now Mrs. Stare was, in her maidenhood. Miss Lizzie Reeme. Her parents, AVilliam H. and Catherine (Shaffer) Reeme, were natives of Pennsylvania. The father was born in Daui)hin County, on the 12th of July, 1811, was reared to agricultural pui-suits and educated in the common schools. At the age of twenty-eight, he began dealing in general merchandise. He emi- grated to Ohio in the spring of 1857, and there remained eight years, after which he spent twenty years engaged in general merchandising in Decatur, 111. He was one of the pioneer business men of the city. In 1886, he was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, who died on the 13th of Feb- ruar\', at the age of sixty-five }-ears, two months and seventeen days. For fort3'-five years they had traveled life's journey together, sharing its joys and sorrows, adversity and prosperity. They had a family of nine children, four sons and five daughters, but only the daughters are now living: 484 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Ellen is the wife of Benjamin Knepper, a farmer residing near Tiflin, Ohio; Mrs. Stare is the next younger; Sarah is the wife of Kilburn Howard, of Decatur, 111., who for twenty-live years has been a trusted employe of the Wabash Railroad Com- pany; Emma is the wife of Judge Davidson, of Montieello, 111., County Judge of Piatt County; and Ida is a saleslady in a large mercantile estab- lishment of Decatur. Mrs. Stare was born January 23, 1845, acquired her education in the common schools and is an estimable lady. The marriage of our subject arid his wife was celebrated December 14, 1874, and unto them have been born five children: Frank, Burton, Fred, Mary B. (deceased), and Willie. The family has a beautiful and elegant home on Ohio Street, and its members rank high in social circles. The parents are members of the Method- ist Church and are earnest supporters of all those benevolent institutions which are worth}' of their consideration. In politics, IMr. Stare is a Prohibitionist. He be- longs to the Modern Woodmen, Camp No. 1135, of Sibley, and is a man who has the best interest of the community at heart and does all in his power for the advancement of those enterprises calculated to prove of public good. He was one of the mem- bers of the Building Committee at the time of the erection of the Methodist Church in Sibley, and has been Superintendent of the Sunday-school for four }-ears. Mr. Stare is a patentee of several valuable devices, including the steel and iron road, which was patented December IG, 1890, and is a valuable invention. I^^h^i ~=) J"'OHN C. HENDERSON now owns and oper- ates two hundred and forty acres of arable land on section 28, Button Township. It is considered one of the best farms in the neighborhood, being improved with a substantial residence, good barns and outbuildings and all the other accessories of a model farm. The fields are well tilled and the neat appearance of the place indicates the thrift and enterprise of the owner. Jlr. Henderson was born in Portage County, Ohio. M.ay 19, 1842. His grandfather removed from Westmoreland County, Pa., to Ohio about 1828, becoming one of the pioneers of Summit County, and there Alexander Henderson, father of John, was reared to manhood. He was born in Westmoreland County-, in 1816. In Summit County, he wedded Mary Lantz, a, native of the Ke^'stone State, and a daughter of .Tacob Lantz, one of the early settlers of Summit County. After their marriage, Mr. Henderson )emoved with his wife to Portage County, which was then an almost unbroken wilderness, and cleared and developed a farm, upon which he resided until 1853. He then sold out and removed to Northfield, Summit County, where he engaged in farming five ^-ears. In 1858, he came to Illinois and entered a farm in La Salle County. In the spring of the following year, he settled upon land iii Putnam County, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits for some time. He then again sold out and removed to Princeton, Bureau County, where he made his home until his death on the 5th of March, 1880. His wife died in November, 1889, at the home of her daughter, in Beatrice, Neb., but she was laid to rest b}- the side of her husband in Princeton, 111., where a nice monument has been erected to their memory. For many \-ears they were active members of the Presbyterian Church, in which Mr. Henderson long served as an Elder. He was a successful business man, and was esteemed and respected wherever known. Our subject is the second in order of birth in their family of three sons and two daughters who reached adult age: Denisa, deceased, wife of J. R. Phillips, of Ford County, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work; John C, whose name heads this record; Robert F., a farmer of Gage County, Neb.; Walter L., a lawyer of Creighton, Knox County, Neb.; Leila A., wife of John Pol- lock, of Beatrice, Neb. Until fourteen years of age, John Henderson resided in the State of his nativity and acquired a good common-school education. With his i)ar- ents, he came to Illinois in 1858, and remained with his father until he had attaiiied his majority. He then began operating a portion of the home I ^^s Tl ^ ^ ^ 1 I? ^1 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 487 farm on his own account, and continued its cnlti- vation for several years. As a companion and lielpmate on life's journey, he chose INIiss Susanna Packinghani, a natiye of Putnam ('ounty, III., and a daughter of .lames Paekingliain. one of the hon- ored pioneers of Putnam County, wlio came to this State from Winsted, Conn. The union of our subject and his wife was celebrated in (uanville, Putnam County, January 25, 18C6, and they be- gan their domestic life upon the home farm, but after a few years came to Ford County in 1871, and settled upon wild land in Button Township. Mr. Henderson first purchased forty acres, and after he had broken and improved this tract he bought an additional forty, lying just acro.ss the line in ^'ermilion County. As his financial re- sources have increased, he has since added to the amount, and is now the owner of a valuable place of which we have before spoken. Mr. and Mrs. Henderson have no children of their own, but have reared three orphan children: Thomas IMcMurray, Mary Alma Morrison and John F. Correll being still with tiiem. Mr. Hen- derson and his wife are members of tiie Presby- terian Church and are very highly respected people, whose upright lives have won them the warm regard of all with whom they have come in contact. He is a thrifty, enterprising man, who began life for himself empty-handed, but has worked his way upward by the assistance of his estimable wife to a position of affluence. He cer- tainly deserves great credit for his success, and it is with pleasure that we present this brief record of so worthy a man to our readers. w f\ y " ll ^ fc f ?— i-<-r--— iH- AVID P. MrCRACKEN, breeder and dealer in Poland-China hogs and .lersey cattle, resides on section 27, Patton Township. He is so well known throughout Ford County that he needs no special introduction to our readers. He was born in Pennsylvania, near the city of Pittsburg, May 17, 18.52, and is a son of the Rev. R. McCracken, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work. During his cliildhood, he came with bis parents to Illinois, in 1858, and three years later the family removed to Ford Count3'. His youth was spent in the town of Paxton, and he acqiured a good education, graduating from the Paxton High School, after which he entered upon his business career as a clerk in Tloopeston, III., where he remained for about a year. Mr. McCracken was married in Paxton on the 3d of March, 1874, the lady of his choice being Miss Mary F. Mason, a daughter of Frank Mason, of that city, who is represented on another page of this work. She was born in r)swego, N. Y., but was reared and educated in this county. The young couple began their domestic life upon a farm in Button Township where our subject engaged in agricultural pursuits for some ten years. In 1884, he removed to Minnesota, and in Martin County was for two years engaged in farming and stock- raising. On his return to Illinois in the autumn of 1886, he took up his residence in the city of Pax- ton and gave his attention to the raising of Poland- China hogs. In the spring of 1889, we find him residing upon a farm on section 27, Patton Town- ship,which is still his home. It is pleasantly situated four miles southe.ast of Paxton. For the past twelve j'ears, Mr. McCracken has given his atten- tion to bleeding and raising Poland-China hogs and is one of the best-known breeders of that stock in this State. He has taken many first and second premiums at the county, district and State fairs, where he has exhibited his stock, and to twenty- seven different States and Territories he has shipped his hogs, and also to Canada. He is a member of the National Swine Expert Judges' Association, having served as judge in several of the leading associations of the Middle and AVestern States. For the past few years, he has also been engaged in lireeding and dealing in registered Jersey cat- tle, and at the present time owns about thirty head, among which seven head bore off prizes at the Minnesota State Fair. Mr. and Mrs. McCracken have a family of five children, all of whom are still under the parental roof, namely: Fred, Bertha II., Minnie, Eva and Roy. The parents and the four eldest children are members of the Methodist Church of Pax- ton, and Mr. McCracken is serving as one of its 488 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Trustees. Ho is a warm friend of the cause of education and believes in promoting the interests of the schools by securing the best teachers. He is now serving as a member of the School Board, but has never been an oflice-seeker, preferring to give his entire time and attention to his business. He cast liis first Presidential vote for tiie Hon. R. B. Hayes, and has supported each Republican nominee for President since that time. He is a warm advocate of the principles of the Republican party and greatly interested in its success. Mr. McCracken is recognized as one of the wide-awake and enterprising business men of the county, who has not only labored for the advancement of his own interests but has worked for the upbuild- ing and development of the community as well. His life has been well and worthily spent, and his upright character has won him high esteem. 'REDERICK HAMER, one of the enterising Pi) and well-known farmers of Patton Town- ship, residing on section 29, is a native of Hanover, Germany. He was born March 5, 1858, and is a son of the Rev. Peter Hamer, a minister of the Reformed Church. His mother was in her maidenhood Miss Fulkamena Bussen, and both were natives of Germany. They spent their entire lives in the Fatherland, and at length were called to their final rest. The subject of this sketch was reared to man- hood in the land of his nativity. At the age of twenty, he determined to seek his fortune in the New World, believing that better opportunities were here offered than the old and more thickly settled countries afforded. So it was that in 1878, in company with his brother Thaddeus, he boarded a Westward-bound vessel at Bremen and in July of that year arrived at New York. He at once came to the West and made his first location in Logan Count3', 111., where he worked upon a farm by the month for a year. He then went to Hartzburg, Logan County, where he was employed as a clerk for a year. He then bought a store in Hartzburg and engaged in general merchandising for himself, car- rying a stock of hardware and drugs. For seven 3'ears, he continued business at that place and then sold out, after which he purchased a farm in Piatt County, 111., and once more resumed agricultural pursuits. The two succeeding years of his life were spent in operating that land, after which he sold that farm and, coming to Ford County, bought the one which is now his home. He located thereon in .January. 1891. It is a well-developed tract of one hundred and eighty-eight acres of valuable land, highly improved and located within two miles of Paxton. The city thus being easy of access, he can readily obtain its luxuries and at the same time enjoy the pleasures of rural life. In Logan County, on the 28th of October, 1886, Mr. Hamer led to the marriage altar Miss Maggie McAvoy, daughter of Daniel McAvoy. She is a native of the Emerald Isle, but was educated and reared in Logan County, 111. Three children gr.aced their union, sons: Freddie, Richard and Philip. Mr. Hamer cast his first Presidential vote for Grover Cleveland, and has since been identified with the Democratic party, being a stanch advo- cate of its principles. He has, however, never sought or desired political preferment for himself. Although he has resided in Ford Count\- but a short time, he is recognized as a public-spirited citizen and one of sterling worth and integrity. It was a fortunate day for our subject when he determined to seek a home in America, for in this land of freedom he has prosi)ered, and b^- his own efforts has become a well-to-do farmer. — 5- "^^^tg) i->^^er and coal business in (iibson City, which he con- tinued up to 1887, when he sold out his lumber- yard but still retained the coal business. In the winter of 1891-2, he erected an electric light i)lant at that place, which he put in operation in .Tanuaiy, 1892, and has since conducted successful!}', being the sole proprietor and manager. In addition to his other proiierty, Mr. LeFevre h.as a well-im- proved farm of one hundred and sixty acres, which is described as the northwest quarter of section 13, township 23, range 7, and which corners with city limits of Gibson. He has made his home in that town since beginning business there in 1872. Mr. LeFevre is a Republican in politics and a stalwart advocate of its principles. He has served as School Treasurer four years, Township Trustee six years, for three years was a member of the Vil- lage Board and President of the same for one year. He has held the otfice of Supervisor of Drummer Township for three and a half years and for two years was Chairman of the County Board of Supervisors. He is a prominent and representa- i '^/^;)^^^L.&^-i. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPII'CAL RECORD. 493 tive business man of Ford County and is lield in high esteem by his felhiw-eitizons. Soeiallj', he is a Mason, being a member of (libson Lodge No. 733, A. F. & A. M.; of Gibson Chapter No. 183, R. A. M.; of Gibson Council No. 72; of Mt. Olivet Coramandery No. 38, K. T., of I'axton; and Past Commander of Lott Post No. 70, (i. A. II. ■if OHN MEAD THOMPSON. Among the most worth}' early settlers of Melviu must be mentioned the gentleman whose name heads this sketch and who has been the local Justice of the Peace of Melvin for the p.ast fifteen years. He is a native of Noble County, Ohio, his birth having occurred on the 24th of April, 1837, and is a son of William and Catherine (Dyer) Thompson, who wore natives of ^'irginia, and who in their youth went with tlieir respective parents to l>elmont Countv, Ohio, wlici-e they made their homes, the mother's family settling tliere during her childhood and the father's in the year 1825. William Thompson and his wife were married in Belmont Count}', in 1729, and soon after moved to Noble County. In 1843, they moved to Monroe County and seven years later returned to ]>elmont County, which was the home of the family till they came West. In politics, Mr. Thompson was a Democrat until the war and it was a hard struggle for him to sever old party affiliations, but when principle demanded it, he changed and was ever afterward a warm Re- publican, liotli he and his wife were zealous mem- bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The mo- ther, who was a worthy Christian woman, died in Belmont County, Ohio, April 8, 1863, at the age of fifty-four years. The father came to Illinois in 18C4,and settled first in Marshall County, near New Rutland, La Salle Count}-, where he engaged in farming. He was an upright Christian man and a good citizen. His death occurred in Melvin in March, 1874, he having been a resident of that place some four years. John M. Tiiompson was reared on a farm and secured an academic education, Jo early manhood. he engaged in teaching school, following that call- ing some four years. On the 31st of October, 1861, in Barnesville, Belmont County, Ohio, he was united in marriage witli Miss Jane Day, a daughter of John and Anna Day. The lady was born in Barnesville and became the mother of three chil- dren; AVilliam Edward, wiio was born February 9, 1863, married Miss Maggie Statiier and is a mem- ber of the firm of William II. & W. E. Thompson, dealers in lumber and agricultural implements of Melvin; Anna, the only daughter., died June 17, 1874, at the age of three years; and Franc Mead, the youngest child, was born February 3, 1877. Mr. Thompson came to Illinois in 1864 with his family, spent one year in Grundy County, then re- moved to Marshall County, and located within a mile of New Rutland, La Salle County, where he was engaged in farming three years. In 1869, he removed to Woodford County, near p]l Paso, but a year later crossed the line into McLean County. He came in 1872 to INIelvin and engaged in the agricultural implement .and grocery business in company with his brother Tliomas D. The part- nership was dissolved in 1878 and our subject con- tinued alone in the implement business, to which he added the lumber business, until 1886, since which time he has devoted his attention to his of- ficial duties as Justice of the Peace and to convey- ancing and collecting. On the 15th of May, 1887, Mr. Thompson was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife. She w!is a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church from childhood. On the 6th of December, 1888, Mr. Thompson was united in marriage tlie second time, the cere- mony being performed in Melvin, while Mrs. Jane Thompson became his wife. She was the widow of Isr.iel A. Thompson and a d.aughter of Joseph Fletcher. Her birth occurred in Bury, Lancashire, England.. and she came to America with her parents in childhood. She has one child by her former marriage, Sarah Catherine Thompson. In politics, Mr. Tliomi)Son is a Republican and at this writing is President of the Village Board of Melvin. In 1890, he was one of the census enu- merators, and he will have held the office of Justice of the Peace for sixteen years when iiis present term expires. He has been secretary and a 494 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD, trustee of tlie Melviii Brick and Tile Company since its organization. He is a cliarter member of Peach OrcLiard Lodge No. 179, K. P., in which lie has filled the official chairs, and lias held the office of Deputy Grand Chancellor since the lodge was insti- tuted, lie has been actively identified with the citizens of Peach Orchard and adjoining townships for the past twenty years, in business and official relations, and it is no tlatteiy to say of him that his upright and honorable course with all with whom he has come in contact has won him universal respect and confidence. He is looked up to by every one and has been of niiicli service to many in the wa.v of seasonable and sound advice on mat- ters of differences in business or in the way of business transactions in the ordinal y course of life. Plain and unpretending in manner, courteous and obliging, he has made many friends and has few, if any, enemies. Himself and wife and their chil- dren are members of the Methodist Church of Melvin, to which Mr. Thompson has been a liberal contributor and has been active in its support, as has also his wife. j****^ ='**nc-tliird, making the invest- ment a very profitable one. Mr. and Mrs. McCracken have six childien liv- ing, three sons and three daughters: Minnie A., the eldest, is the wife of Thomas M. Kell, a lead- ing business man of Vernon, Tex.; David Pren- tice, who wedded Mary F. Mason, of Paxton, Is a noted live-stock grower and dealer of Paxton Township. He makes a si)ecialt3' of breeding im- ported .Jerse3' cattle and Poland-China hogs, and is an acknowledged leader in that line of stock business. Robert A. married Miss Luella B. Kemp, and is a practicing attorney of Paxton ; Lizzie C. is the wife of N. L. Thompson, of Crawfordsville, Ind.; Gordon Ewing married Miss Lyda T. Jones, and is a well-known Paxton grocer, of the firm of Bayne it McCracken; and Fiances L., the joung- est, resides at home. All the children are mem- bers of the Evangelical Church, and the sons are all Republicans, in politics. While an earnest Republican, and always voting with that party, Mr. McCracken is a strong Pro- hibitionist in ])rinciple, and if he thought the suc- cess of that party pcjssible, would gladly cast his vote with it. He isa man of positive views, and is always in ■earnest in whatever he undertakes. His judgment in matters of business and comparative 496 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. values of jiroperty is reliahle, and he possesses a natuial aptness and liking for business transactions that have led liini into many profitable investments, principally^ in real estate. In a marked degree, Mr. MeCracken enjoys the confidence and esteem of his fellow-citizens and all with whom he has had business or social relations. ^ IS' H 'OIIN TI'jTER is one of tlic prominent farm- ers of Pattoii Township, liis home being on section 22. West Virginia is the State of his nativity, liis birth having occurred in Pendleton County ,November 24, 1843. His father, Benjamin Tcter, was also a native of West Vir- ginia, and his grandfather, .John Teter, was born in Pennsylvania, from whence he removed to Pendleton County, W. Va. With the other mem- bers of the family, Benjamin was there reared to manhood, and after attaining to years of matur- ity, he wedded Maiy Hartman, a native of that State and a daughter of John Ilartman, who at an early day removed to Iowa, where he made his home until his death. The father of our sub- ject is a blacksmith b}' trade, but has also fol- lowed farming for many years. On his emigra- tion to Illinois, lie located in McLean Count3', in 1850, and for about thirt3-tive years has re- sided upon the farm which is still his home. He is a hale and hearty old gentleman of seventy- five years, wljo is now living a retired life in the enjoyment of the rest he has so well earned and truly deserved. His first wife died in McLean County in 1853, after which he was a second time married. Our subject was the second in the family of two sons and two daughters who were born of the tirst marriage, grew to mature 3ears and became heads of families. Elizabeth is now deceased; Sarah is the wife of Charles West, a resident of Colorado; and .Joseph, wlio joined the One Hun- dred and Eiftieth Illinois Infantry in 1865, died in Jeffersonville, Ind. John Teter, whose name heads this record, re- mained in McLean County- until the age of eigh- teen years, working upon his father's farm and receiving but limited educational advantages. On the 26th of December, 1861, he enlisted in tlie country's service as a memijer of Company K, Twenty-sixth Illinois Infantry. He was then only eighteen years of age and weighed but ninety pounds. With his regiment, he participated in thirty-two engagements, many of which were among the most important of the war. He took part in the battle at New Madrid, both engage- ments at Corinth, the battle of luka, the siege of \'icksbnrg and the battle of Jackson, where he re- ceived two flesh wounds, one caused by a musket ball and the other b^- a piece of shell. He was carried from the field, but as soon as he had suffi- ciently recovered, re-joined his command and par- ticipated in the battle of Mission Ridge and those of the Atlanta campaign, also in tiie memorable march to the sea with Sherman. He likewise took part in the Grand Review at Washington at the close of the war, and with his regiment was mus- tered out at Louisville, receiving his discharge in Springfield, 111.. July 21), 1865. He was a faithful soldier and ever found at his post of duty, never failing to respond to his name at roll-call, except after he was wounded, and in 1862, when he lay sick in the hospital with measles and rheumatism. On the year following his return from the war, Mr. Teter was married, April 12, 1866, to Miss Heniietta Coffej-, who was born in Indiana, and came with her father, Hiram Coffej', to Illinois when a child and spent her maidenhood days in ISIcLean County. The ^oung couple there began their domestic life upon a rented farm, and after two years Mr. Teter purchased forty acres of raw land which he improved, selling it after three years. He then went to Sedgwick Count}', Kan., but did not locate as he intended. Returning to Illinois, he again rented a farm for three ^ears and then purchased land in INIcLean County. Six 3'ears later, he again sold, after which he rented for two 3'ears, and, in 1882, bought one hundred and sixty acres of land in Piatt County, upon which he made his home for two years. He then leased another farm and together operated the two places until 1888, when he bought a farm of eight3' acres near Deland. In 1889, he exchanged ^Uv:\ Sic^^^^^u^ (b oCnjiM^y^^^ nf PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 501 his Piatt County lands for the farm upon which he now resides, and it has been liis home since the spring of 1890. Within its boundaries are com- prised four hundred and eiglity acres and it is one of the desirable places in Patton Township. He has greatly improved it since locating thereon, having put in tiling to the value of 12,500 and made otlier extensive improvements. Unto Mr. and Mr. Teter have been horn four children: Albert O., who is engaged in the mer- cantile business at Henderson Station; William E., who is in partnership with his brother; Arthur D., and Grace at home. Mr. Teter has been a stanch advocate of Repub- lican principles since he cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. U. S. Grant. He is now serving as a member of the School Board. Tlie county finds in him one of its valued citizens, who does all in his power to advance the best interests of the com- munity and promote the general welfare. He is a practical and progressive farmer, now numbered among the substantial citizens of the community. His is another instance of where latjor, determina- tion and perseverance have wrought out success, unaided by wealth or influential friends. -^1. "S) ^^ [=" W AMES H. SNELLING. Among the leading citizens of Wall Township should be men- j^ I tioned the gentleman whose name heads ^J^// this sketch, a well-known farmer residing on section 11. His life record is as follows: He claims tlie honor of being a native of Illinois, his birth having occurred in La Salle County, on the 2d of March, 1845. His father, John Snelling, was bom near Manassas, Va., in 1813, and learned the carpenter's trade with his father, following that occupation until twenty-eight years of age. When a j'Oung man of eighteen years, he removed to Ohio, and came to Illinois about the year 1838, taking up his residence in La Salle Count}^ where he engaged in agricultural pursuits until called to his final rest. He died upon his farm at the age of seventy-five years. He was married in La Salle County to Rebecca J. Shaver, a native of Ohio, 21 who came to Illinois in 1832. She is yet living, and still resides on the old homestead. Mr. Snelling was quite successful in business. He began in life with only a set of carpenter's tools, but his indus- try and enterprise won for him a competence, and at his death he was worth $40,000. The children of the Snelling family are as fol- lows: Nanc3', wife of M. H. Weaver, a resident of Wall Township; Elizabeth, now deceased; James H., of this sketch; David, wlio is living near the old home in La Salle County; Annis, who resides on the old farm; and George, who is practicing law in Anthony, Kan. The boyhood da3'S of our subject were spent upon his father's farm, and in his youth he re- ceived excellent educational advantages. After attending the common schools for some time, he be- came a student in a business college of London, Canada, afterward entered Eastman Business Col- lege of Chicago and subsequently attended the business college of Madison, Wis. He later was Principal of the Western Business College at Gales- burg for two years, being Professor of penmanship and book-keeping. He is a most expert penman, and has some very fine and artistic specimens of his work which would be hard to excel. On the 15th of September, 1872, in the county of his nativity, Mr. Snelling married Miss Frances Spradling, who was born August 11, 1851. Her parents were Enoch and Sarah (Dart) Spradling. The former was born in Tennessee, June 10, 1811, and the latter in Indiana, May 25, 1817. The father was reared to agricultural pursuits and be- came a successful business man. In an early day, he emigrated to Indiana, .md in 1841 become a res- ident of La Salle County, 111., where his death oc- curred May 18, 1883. In politics, he was a stanch Republican. His widow is still living at the ad- vanced age of seventy-five and resides on the old homestead in La Salle County. She is a member of the Methodist Church. In the family were ten children, two sons and eight daughters, but only three arc now living: Raciiel, wife of George De- bolt, a native of Ohio, now engaged in farming in La Salle County; Elizabeth, wife of Eugene Pooler, also a native of the Buckeye State and an agricul- turist of La Salle County; and Frances, wife of our 502 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. subject. Her early education acquired in the com- mon schools was supplemented bj' study in the High School of Newark, 111. In the spring of 1873, iSIr. Snelling removed with his family to a farm in La Salle County, which he operated three and a half 3'ears. He came to Ford Count}' in 1879, and settled upon his present farm, having the year previous purchased one hun- dred and sixty acres of land. The work of improve- ment had then been scarcely commenced but he at once began its development, and as the result of his industrious efforts has now a valuable farm, the boundaries of which have been extended until it now comprises three hundred and twenty acres of rich land. He has led a busy and useful life and is a well-to-do farmer. Unto Mr. and Snelling were born four children, Herman, who was born October 6, 1873; William Roy, November 26, 1875; Blanche E., Janu- ary' 4, 1878; and John F., born August 5, 1883. The three eldest children are natives of La Salle County, the youngest was born in Ford County. The family has a nice home and the members of the Snelling household are highly respected people. Our subject cast his first Presidential vote for Sey- mour in 1868, and has since supported each Demo- cratic candidate, with the exception of Horace Greeley. He has served as School Director and Supervisor, and has proved himself a capable and efficient officer. He is a good business man, has won prosperity in his undertakings, and is highly esteemed. I^OBERT M. MOFFETT, a resident of Paxton, IWf^ was born near the town of Bloomington, i4\ flA Monroe County, Ind., on the 14th of Octo- ber, 1856, and is a son of James and Jane (Strong) Moffett, both of whom were natives of South Carolina. His father was born in Chester District, that State, January 22, 1822, and was one of a family of seven children, three sons and four daughters, all of whom grew to mature years and became heads of families. Two sisters and two brothers are now deceased. The father died wlien Jaroes was quite young, and he removed with his mother to Monroe County, Ind., where ho re- ceived a good education and was reared to man- hood upon a farm. He remained with liis mother until his marriage, when he located on a piece of timber land, which he had [ireviously purchased, and now cleared and improved it. It continued to be his home until 1865, when he came to Ford County, 111., and purchased a slightly improved farm near the city of Paxton. There he engaged in agricultural pursuits until 1889, when he rented his land and purchased a residence in Pax- ton. He is now living retired from the active duties and labors of farm life and enjoying the rest which he has so truly earned. In his political affiliations, Sir. Moffett is a Republican, and has served as member of the School Board for a num- ber of years. He is a valued citizen and a man highly respected by all who know liim. In the Moffett family were seven children: Au- gustus, the eldest, is now a farmer and resides on the old homestead in Patton Township; David is engaged in business in the city of Paxton; Rob- ert M., of this sketch, is the next younger; Louise and Lora carry on a millinery store in Paxton; Emma resides at home with her parents; and Rena is a stenographer, holding a responsible po- sition as book-keeper and stenographer in Chicago. The subject of this sketch spent the days of his b03'hood and youtli upon his father's farm, his time being passed in the usual manner of farmer lads. His education was acquired in the district schools of the neighborhood, and he remained under the parental roof until 1881, in which 3'ear his marriage was celebrated. It was on the 29th of April that he led to the marriage altar Miss Hattie, daughter of James 51. and Jane Morris. By their union have been born four childien: Arthur, Earl, Dora and an infant. Mr. and Mrs. Moffett began their domestic life upon a farm in Patton Township, whicli he con- tinued to operate and improve until 1887, when he determined to turn his attention to other pur- suits and, removing to Paxton, engaged in the liv- er}' business, which he has followed continuously since with good success. He keeps a first-class livery stable, and by his fair and honest dealing and courteous treatment of his patrons has built PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD 503 up an excellent trade. lie does not take a very prominent part in public affairs l)ut votes with the Rejjulilican party, and in his religious views is a Preshyterian, lidding nieniliersliip with the churcli of Paxtoii. GEORGE GROVE, a dealer in lumber, build- ,^^p ing material and coal, is one of the suc- cessful business men of Paxlon. lie was born in Greencastle, Franklin County, Pa., No- vember 20, 1848, and is a son of George and Catherine (Whitmer) Grove. They were both natives of the same region, the father born in 1815, and the mother in 1822. She was called to her final rest in the fall of 1891, I)ut tlie father still survives, making his home in Sterling, 111. Thev came to Illinois in 1857, settling in Blooni- ington, where they remained but three months, and then went to Sterling, where the father was engaged in farming for a number of j'ears, but since 1886 has lived a retired life in the city. ]\Ir. Grove whose name heads this sketch was reared on liis father's farm until lie attained the age of nineteen 3'ears, and began liis literary- training in the district schools. Me later became a student in tlie Commercial College of Blooming- ton. He engaged in agricultural pursuits until 1872, and then entered the lumber _yard of Whit- mer & Brunn, continuing that business until the spring of 1875. At that time, he came to Paxton and formed a partnership with George Means, tiie firm liecoming Means & Grove. That connection continued until January, 1878, when Mr. Whit- mer became a member of the firm. Mr. Grove still had charge of the business until .lanuary, 1892, when he bought out the interests of his partners, and has since conducted tlie business alone. He is a stockholder in the Paxton Brick & Tile Company, and was one of the original or- ganizers of that corporation. He lias now been longer engaged in business than any other man in Paxton, and has a large and flourishing trade. On tlie 27th of November, 1873, Mr, Grove was joined in wedlock with Miss Ella Wright, a daugliter of Dr. Wright, formerly of Blooming- ton, III., but now of San Francisco, Cal. Mrs. Grove is a native of New York. She is an es- timable lady and in this community has many friends. Our suliject is a Republican in polities and a stalwart supporter of the principles of that party, and takes an .active part in public affairs. For two years he served as Alderman of Paxton, and filled that office to the satisfaction of all. Sociallj', he is a Mason, holding membership with Paxton Lodge No. 410, A. F. it A. M.; Ford Chapter No. 1 U3, R. A. M.; and IMt. Olivet Commandery No. 38, K. T. He is a member of the Electric Light Company, and is one of the prominent busi- ness men of the city. He has become one of the well-to-do citizens of Ford County and is one of the popular gentlemen of this community, where he is held in the highest regard. "-J-- . — re i m>-^^'m S5=^ i— RS. .JANE PATTON resides on section 33, Button Township. We have spoken much of what the men have done for the up- building and development of the county, liut the women were none the less truly concerned in this work. They had their part to perform and did it well. Among these should be mentioned the lady whose name heads this sketch. She was the first white child born in Fountain County, Ind., the date of her birth being May 3, 1824. Her father, William Cade, was born in Delaware, October 4, 1789, and was a son of Richard Cade, also a na- tive of Delaware, born of Welsh and English par- entage. He came of old New England families. With his wife and children, he removed to Ohio about 1800, settling in what is now Pickaway County. The father of Mrs. Patton there spent his child- hood days and on the 16th of January, 1823, wed- ded Martha Campbell, a native of Kentuck3', but reared in Pickaway Count}'. Soon afterward, tKe young couple removed to Indiana, becoming hon- ored pioneers of Fountain County, and there reared 504 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. tlieir family-. In his earlj- life, Mr. Cade made ten trips oil a flathoat to New Orleans and seven times returned to Ohio on foot. Duringthe war of 1812, he served three months on the northern frontier. He took quite an active part iu political affairs in an early day, and was the Whig candidate for Representative but was defeated. The death of his wife occurred in 1840, and ]\Ir. Cade was called to Ills final rest on the 14th of November, 1846. Mrs. Patton spent her girlhood days in the county of her nativity, aided her mother in the household duties and acquired her education in the district schools, her privileges in that direction, however, being quite limited. On the 10th of December, 1844, she gave her hand in marriage to David Patton, who was born in Ross County, Ohio, December 20, 1815, and was a son of Thomas Patton, who was a native of the Ke^'Stone State, but became a resident of Ross County, Ohio, in an early day. In 1818, he removed with his family- to Indiana, locating near Terre Haute, and Ave years later went to Fountain County, where liis son David spent his boyhood days in the usual manner of farmer lads. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Patton were born eight cliil- dren, who grew to mature years: William T., a substantial farmer of this countj; S. H., who aids in the operation of the liome farm; Martha, wife of J. W. Flagg, of Vermilion County; La Fayette, who has been a deaf mute nearly all of his life but is, notwithstanding, a successful farmer of Cham- paign County; Charles D., a young man of sterling worth, who died February 23, 1S84, at the age of twenty-seven years; Frank, at home; Ida, wife of C.A.Lamb, of Ford Count}'; and Mary AUie, a teacher of recognized ability in this count}'. For ten years after his marriage, IMr. Patton re- sided in Fountain County, Ind., and in November, 1854, came to what is now Ford County, 111., be- coming one of the earliest settlers of Button Town- ship. He and his estimable wife suffered many of the hardships of pioneer life, and during those first years the members of the family were victims of the prevailing disease, spinal-meningitis, and one of their sons entirely lost his hearing. Mr. Patton entered four hundred and eighty acres of land and began the development of a farm. As his flnancial resources increased, he extended its boundaries, until, at the time of his death, he owned about two thousand acres in Ford and adjoining counties. He was one of the enter- prising, successful and progressive farmers of the community and was a man of sterling worth, who had the respect of all who knew him. His death occurred Februar\- 29, 1880, in Fountain County, Ind., whither he had gone to at- tend some business. He was there taken sick and died and liis remains were interred in the family cemetery in tliat county. In his early life he was a Jackson Democrat, but on the organization of the Republican part}' joined its ranks and contin- ued one of its stanch su])portcrs, although he was never an aspirant for public ottice. The cause of education found in hini a warm friend and his support was ever given to those interests calculated to benefit the community. He was an active mem- ber of the Methodist Church, and lived a worthy and uprigiit life, so that when lie was called to his final rest many friends mourned his loss. Since the deatli of her husband, Mrs. Patton has continued to reside on her fine farm, and has had the entire management of the place. She possesses superior business and executive ability and is a lady possessing many estimable qualities which justly entitle her to the liigh regard in which she is held. The Methodist Church finds in her a faithful member and with it she has been connected since her sixteenth year. _cs^ ~oi i,$:::^^Si£:^ ■.x> - A OHN WESLEY REED, the leading dentist of Ford County, is a native of the Buckeye State. The place of his birth was West- ' minster, Allen County, and the date Sep- tember 4, 1851. His father, the Rev. Samuel Karr Reed, was born in Martinsburg, Va., in the year 1803. He wedded Mary C. Magee, who was born in Tarleton, Pickaway County, Ohio, in 1827. Both are still living and are residents of Cham- paign. His father is a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is now eighty-nine years of age. It was in the fall of 1860, when a lad of nine /f a PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 507 summers, that Dr. Reed came with his parents to Illinois, the family locating in Cliampaign, where he attended the public schools, but his educational privileges were not such as many received. His father's profession w.as not a lucrative one and the assistance of the son in support of the family was in demand as soon as he was able to earn anything. The Doctor entered upon his business career as clerk in a general store and was thus employed for eleven years, after which, as a traveling salesman, he was upon the road for a short time, but the sal- ary he received was not such as to induce him to pursue that course as a means of livelihood. He then decided to make the practice of dentistry his life work and began its stud3' in 1877, under the preceptorship of Dr. O. F. Britton, of Champaign, at that time the best dentist in Central Illinois. In due time, he was admitted to partnership with his preceptor, and continued with Dr. Britton un- til May, 1883, when he decided to open an office in Paxton. Success crowned his efforts from the beginning, and he was soon enabled to supply himself with necessary and improved appliances for his work and to furnish his rooms with taste and elegance. His skill and business-like methods com- mend him to the public, and his business has in- creased steadily, until at this writing his appoint- ment book provides for every hour of his time for several weeks in advance. On the 23d of October, 1884, in Paxton, Dr. Reed was joined in wedlock to Miss Kate Adele Cooper, who was born in .Jefferson County, 111., and is a daughter, of H. O. Cooper. Her father is now deceased, and since his death her mother has be- come the wife of the Rev. George Schlosser, of Paxton. Socially, the Doctor is a Master Mason, belonging to Paxton Lodge No. 416, A. F. & A. M., and Paxton Camp No. 259, M. W. A., of which he was Venerable Counsel for three successive terms. He also belongs to the PJastern Illinois Dental As- sociation and at this writing is its President. Dr. Reed is well up in his profession, being a liberal patron of the best dental periodicals and a thorough student and practical workman of supe- rior skill. His office is supplied with the most modern and perfect instruments and appliances and he does all classes of work that is usually done by the leading dentists of the large cities in the country. His work is done so thoroughly and conscientiously that his patrons are earnest and sincere in their expressions of satisfaction. Personally, Dr. Reed is a genial, bright and intelligent gentleman whose integrity and business standing are above reproach and whose success in life has been won by his own unaided efforts, natural ability and energetic ap- plication to his business. rjj^ ANDOLPH CRUZEN, a hardware merchant '^ of Paxton, who has resided in that city since 1868, was born in Harper's Ferry, Va., ^on the 16th of December, 1835. His father, Thomas Jefferson Cruzen, was also a native of that State, and was descended from an old family of German origin. After he had arrived at j'cars of maturity, he married Elizabeth McBride, a lady of Scotch descent. When only three _years old, the subject of this sketch removed with his parents from Virginia to Fayette County, and subsequently to Madison County, Ohio, where he acquired his education in the public schools and was employed on his father's farm until twenty years of age,wlien he determined to turn his attention to other pursuits, and secured a position as merchant's clerk. At length he resolved to seek a home further Westward, and, in 1856, he came to Illinois, locating near Fairmont, Vermil- ion County, where he engaged in farming until 1864, when he embarked in the mercantile business. Four years later, in 1869, he came to Paxton and bought out George Wright, in the dry-goods trade, carrying on that business until 1872, when he be- came a hardware merchant, forming a partnership with R. Clark, which connection was continued until 1882, when Mr. Clark retired from the firm. In October, 1868, while a resident of Fairmont, Mr. Cruzen was united in marriage to Miss Annie E. Clark, a daughter of Remembrance and Henrietta A. (Durgin) Clark, the ceremony being performed at the home of her parents, in Paxton. Mrs. Cruzen was born in Bangor, Me., and came to 508 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Illinois with her parents in 1858, the family set- tling in what is now Paxton. One son has been born unto our subject and his wife — Charles R., a young man now twenty-one years of age. In addition to his mercantile business, Mr. Cruzen is connected with several other enterprises of importance. He is a member of the Paxton Canning Company, of the Paxton Hemp Company, and of the Paxton Grain Company. He also hand- les more or less live stock, having dealt in that line for many years. In his political affiliations, he is a Republican, and, with his wife, he attends the Congregational Church. Mr. Cruzen has long been recognized as one of Paxton 's most influen- tial and prominent business men, and well merits, by his integrity and upright course in life, the high esteem in which he is held by all who know him. He takes an active interest in all that per- tains to the welfare of the city, and has aided largely in its upbuilding and advancement. ^4^ ^ib^.«.^ i^ •«. t-ap^ b^-|» HARLES E. WEKSLUND well deserves representation in this volume, for he is one of the most prominent farmers of Patton Township. His home is on section 21. He is a native of Sweden, his birth having occurred on the 15th of March, 1853. His training to farm labor was not as limited as his school privileges. His education has been mostly acquired through his own efforts and since attaining to mature years, but he has made himself a well-informed man. In the year 1870, he bade adieu to his old home and the friends of his youth and crossed the briny deep to the New World, sailing from Gottenburg on a steamer which reached New York in .Tune of that year. Mr. Wesslund was then a young man of eighteen years. He came at once to Illinois, settling in Ford County, where he began working upon a farm by the month, and was thus employed for nine long j^ears. On the expiration of that period, he rented a large farm of four hundred acres, and there extensively engaged in farming for seven years. In the meantime, he purchased one hun- dred and six acres of land which he rented. In 1889, he sold that farm and bought one hundred and sixty acres, comprising the farm on which he now makes his home. This place is well tiled and finely improved; in fact, it is a model farm. The house is a commodious and substantial residence, neatlj' and tastefully furnished; the lawn is orna- mented with a large variety of evergreen and other shade trees, together with flowering shrubs; a fine young orchard of select fruit has been set out, and the farm seems complete in all its appoint- ments. The lady who bears the name of Mrs. Wesslund was in her maidenhood Miss Hilda Wilhelraina Asp. She was born and reared in Sweden and when a j'oung lady came to this country. Their marriage was celebrated in Ford County on the 13th of March, 1881, and unto them have been born four interesting children: Harry, Elmer, An- ton and Mabel. The parents are both members of the Paxton Lutheran Church. In politics, Mr. Wesslund is a Republican, having supported that party since he became a voter. He has never been an aspirant for public office, preferring to devote his time and attention to his business interests, which he has followed with signal success. He commenced life in Illinois a poor young man, emptj'-h.anded, but by his own industry, enterprise and labor he has accumulated a large, valuable and desirable farm and a good home and is now re- garded as one of the thrifty and well-to-do agri- culturists of Patton Township. He is respected by his neighbors, esteemed by his friends, and it is with pleasure we present this record of his life to our readers. a,-!-^"?"?-, ^•5-i-**' 'i»'OHN H. WARNER (deceased), who was for many years a resident of Ford County, was born in Belleville, near St. Louis, Mo., April 1, 1844. His parents, George and Elizabeth (Smith) Warner, emigrated from Ger- many in early life and located at St. Louis, where the father was employed as a cooper and as book- keeper. Having moved to Putnam County, 111., PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 509 he engaged in farming for a time, but later re- moved to Peru, 111. He died in that place, but his wife, who subsequeutly married, resides in Roberts, Ford Count}-. John H. Warner, the second in or- der of birth of Ove children, was only eight years of age at the time of his father's dcatli. His edu- cational advantages were meagre, as he early in life began to lielp sui^port himself. When twenty years of age, he commenced life's battle on his own account by working on a farm. Maj' 8, 1872, he married Miss Elizabeth E., daughter of .lohn Woolstoncroft. The lady was ))orn in Putnam County, 111., but was chietly reared in La Salle County. She came with her parents to Ford County in 1867, and was married in Ly- man Township to Mr. Warner, who had come to the county some four years before her. After spending a year in Dix Townshij), Mr. Warner re- moved to Peach Orchard Township, where he farmed successfully until his death, .lune 18, 1881. He had been in poor health for several years, but was confined to his bed only nine days. He was reared under the auspices of the Lutheran Church, and, in politics, was a Republican. He was a man held in high esteem by his fellow-citizens. Mrs. Warner, who is a member of the Method- ist Episcopal Church, is a lady of many excel- lencies of character. Left a widow with an eight- year-old son, vSeth R., to rear and educate, she has done her part nobly. ellARLES ASIIBY, a retired farmer, now re- siding in Gibson City, was born in Jefferson County, Ohio, June 4, 1833, and is a son of Abel and Harriet (Conowa) Ashby. His parents were both natives of Maryland, and removed to Oliio, settling in Steubenville, before their mar- riage. The fatlier died when Charles was but nine years of age, but tlie mother survived until 1854. The subject of this sketch was reared to man- hood on a farm and attended the district schools, there receiving his literary education. On the 8th of May, 1855, he was united in marriage, in Jeffer- son County, Ohio, to Miss Margaret Hanson. The lady is a native of that count}' and is a daughter of John and Lydia Hanson. Mr. Asliby was engaged in farming in Ohio un- til 1856, when he removed to Illinois, settling in He3'worth Townsliip, INIcLean County, where he carried on agricultural pursuits for the two suc- ceeding yeai-s. At the expiration of that time, he removed to Empire Townsliip, but in October of the same year, 1859, went South and resided in Mis- sissippi and Louisiana until the breaking out of the war. Returning to McLean County, he enlisted, on the 8th of August, 1862, as a member of Com- pany G, Ninety-fourtli Illinois Infantry. He was a non-commissioned officer and participated in the battles of Prairie Grove, Ark., December 7, 1862; Van Buren, Ark., and was in the siege of Vicks- burg until the capture of that place. Later he was in the Black River cami)aign under Gen. Herron, and was in the battle of Port Hudson, La. He then went to Brownsville, Tex., thence to Ft. Morgan, Ala., and took part in the capture of Spanish Fort. He was mustered out on the 12th of August, 1865. On his return from the war, Mr. Ashby was not actively emplojed for a year. He then engaged in farming in McLean County, continuing there until the year 1868, when he removed to Ford County, settling in Dix Township. He there en- gaged in agricultural pursuits until 1881, when he went to Champaign Count}', where for two years he made his home, engaged in farming. He then removed to Normal, where he lived three years, after which he spent one year in Blooming- ton, and in the fall of 1889 came to Gibson City. Unto our subject and his estimable wife have been born three cliildren: John H.,the eldest, mar- ried Lola Phillips, and is a photographer of Melvin; Leonora E. and Emma J. reside with their parents. Mr. and Mrs. Ashby and their eldest daughter are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church and take an active part in its work. Mr. Ashby joined the church in 1860, and his wife became a member in 1862. He is a Democrat in politics, and was a member of the School Board while in Champaign County. He held the oHice of As- sessor of Drummer Township in 1891, and is one of the public-spirited and enterprising citizens of 510 PORTEAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. the community. lie is lield in high respect for his sterling worth and integrity, and is one of the up- right men of Gibson Citj'. *^^S :h' HJ \^ ^ 'OHN A. WESSLUND follows farming on section 18, Patton Township. The geutle- ,^ man whose name heads this sketch is an ex- ^^^J!/ ample of what can be accomplished by en- ergy and thrift, supplemented by good manage- ment and well-directed efforts. Like many of his countrymen, he came to this country a poor young man to seek his fortune. He was empty- handed, having nothing but the gifts with which Nature has endowed him, but he has steadily worked his way upward, and is now the owner of two valuable and well-improved farms, one Ij'ing just outside the city limits of P.axton. Mr. Wesslund was born in Sweden on the 22d of .June, 1850, and his boyhood was spent upon a farm. His educational advantages were very limited, for he had to assist in the labors of the farm and do what he could towards supporting the family. When a young man of eighteen years, in 1868, we find him among the passengers on board the "City of Brooklyn," which weighed an- chor at Gottenburg, and, after a passage of nine days, arrived safe at New York harbor on the 27th of April, of that year. He came at once to the West, going first to Indiana. He had an uncle and some other relatives living at Attica, Ind., and soon found work as a farm hand bj' the month in that loealitj'. The succeeding year he continued his Westward journey to Ford County, III., where he joined his uncle, Jonas Froj-d, since deceased, and went to work on the farm for him. The four suc- ceeding years of his life were tlius passed, after which he rented a farm of Mr. Middlecoff and for four years operated it successfully. Ilis crops were good and products brought a fair price, so that his financial resources were increased, and he was enabled to purchase sixty acres of land, to which he afterward removed and which is still his prop- erty, it being now a well-improved and valuable farm. For several years, Mr. Wesslund continued to operate that land and then purchased the farm on which he now resides, adjoining the cit}- of Paxton, in August, 1891. On the 24th of September, 1885, Mr. Wesslund led to the marriage altar Miss Gusta Salstrom, a native of Sweden, who came to Ford Count}', 111., in 1867. Their union has been blessed with a lit- tle daughter, Esther E. The parents are both members of the Paxton Lutheran Church, and are people of sterling worth, who rank high in social circles and are well and favorably known through- out this communit}'. Mr. Wesslund exercises his right of franchise in the support of the Republi- can part}-, and, as every true American citizen should do, feels an interest in political affairs, yet has never sought or desired public office. He has now resided in Ford County for nearly a quarter of a century and is well known within its borders. ^^-|^^[ ELMER LINCOLN KELS(J, M. D., a rising young physician and surgeon of Paxton, is ? a native of this State, born in Coles County, on the 14lh of November, 1861, and is a son of Dr. H. A. and Margaret (Brashares) Kelso, whose sketch appears on another page of this woik. Our subject came to Paxton with his parents m 1865, and after attending the city schools for some time, he entered the State Universitv at Champaign, taking a tliree-years' scientific and classical course. Subsequently, he became a student of the Chicago Medical College, whence he was graduated after a tliree-3-ears' course, in the Class of '83. On re- ceiving his degree, he returned to Paxton at once and the following day attended his first case, since which time he has been in continuous and suc- cessful practice, which covers a period of nine j-ears. He has assisted his father in the discharge of his duties as local ph3'sician and surgeon for the Illinois Central Railroad Company, and is exam- ining physician for the Equitable Life Insurance Company, of New York, and for the Northwestern Mutual, of Milwaukee, Wis. Dr. Kelso was married in Paxton on the 1st of November, 1887, to Miss Leota Hefner, a daugh- ^. c^^a/mif Sullivant, and was ap- pointed Clerk of the first town meeting held in that township, Mr. Sullivant being Moderator. This was in the spring of 1868. The fall previous, he had returned to the Smith farm and was only in Sullivant temporaril\', in the spring of 1867, to assist Mr. Sullivant in the organization of the town. He continued as overseer of the Smith farm until 1875, when he returned to Sullivant Township and located in Sible)-, where he has since resided. He w.as overseer of the farm under Mr. Sullivant, and was in charge of the tenants on the farm under Mr. Sibley and for the estate until 1885, when he engaged in merchandising in Sib- ley, having successfully- continued that business since. On the 29th of March, 1881), Mr. Harvey w.as commissioned Postmaster of Sibley by President Harrison, being the first one commissioned in this district. He is a Republican in politics, and has been chosen to various local oltices. For sixteen years he has been a Director on the School Board, Township Assessor for thirteen years, and is hold- ing those offices at this writing. He was a mem- ber of the Village Board of Sibley from its oi-gan- ization until 1890, and was Constable from 1876 until 1887, Commissioner of Highways from 1875 until 1889, and held various other offices at the same time. On the lOUi of December, 1859, Mr. Harvey was married, in the town of Princeton, Bureau Countys to Miss Eliza Campbell, who was born in Athens, Ohio, and is a daughter of William and Mary A. (Grimes) Campbell. They have two children, daughters: Emma, now the wife of Albert Lough, of Fairbury, Livingston County; and Eva, who is employed in dress-making in Bloomington, 111. Slie almost completed the course in the Deaf and Dumb Asylum, of Jacksonville, III. The mother died August 9, 1869. On the 15th of September, 1870, i\fr. Harvey was again married, the ceremony being performed in Loda, III. His present wife, wiiose maiden name was Anna AVoodward, was 534 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. born in Jefferson ville, lud., July 25, 1852, nnd is a daughter of George H. and Mary (Leland) Woodward. Four children gr.ace this union: William R., who is now twenty-one years of age, is a partner in his father's store and is also en- gaged in stock-buying; Ida May is clerking in the post office for her father; Franklin MacVcagh and Zola .are the youngest. Mr. Harvey is a Knight Templar Mason, belonging to Sibley Lodge No. 761, A. F. & A. M.; Gibson Chapter No. 183, R. A. M.; and St. Paul Comraandery No. 38, of Fairbury, 111. He has aided in the erection of the church edifices of Sibley, and the cause of education has found in him a warm friend. His labors have been laigt-ly instrumental in securing the excellent schools for which Sibley is noted. Mr. Harvey cast his first Presidential vote for John C. Fremont, he and his comrades walking two miles in order to deposit their ballots. Since that time he has been a stanch supporter of the Republican part^-. He does the largest general business in Sible3', his annual sales amounting to fully $20,000. He carries a full and complete line of dry-goods, fancy and staple groceries, hats and caps, boots and shoes, etc., in fact, ever^'thing found in a first-class store. In his business he has been quite successful, and is widely and favor- ably known to the citizens of Ford and adjoin- ing counties as a man of strict integrity, who has ever proved faihful to every public trust, and exact and correct in the discharge of his duties. In his business relations with his customers, he is ac- commod.ating and fair, and enjoys, as he deserves, the good-will and confidence of all who know him. I^EV. ERIC PETER OLSSON, pastor of the v^ Ev.angelical Lutheran Church of Paxton, was born in the Province of Norrland, Sweden, November 24, 1857, and is a son of John and M.argaret Olsson. In 1869, his par- ents bade good-bj'e to their old home and emi- grated to America, accompanied by their children. On reaching this countiy, the family settled in Susquehanna County, Pa., where tlicy resided un- til 1874, and then removed to Western Kansas, locating near Larned, on the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad, where Mr. Olsson, Sr., en- gaged in farming and stock-growing and where the family still reside. The subject of this sketch attended the public schools near his home in Pennsylvania for three years and then went with his parents to Larned, Kan. In 1879, he became a student in Augustana College, of Rock Island, III., where he pursued a literary and scientific course and was graduated in the Class of '85, with the degree of A. B. He then entered upon a theological course in the same institution and was graduated in 1887, after which he was ordained a minister of the livangeli- cal Lutheran Church at Chicago in June of the same year. While a student in Augustana Col- lege, he frequently served the congregation of his church in Marquette, McPherson County, Kan., during vacations, and when ordained he was as- signed to that place, it being his first regular pas- torate. From June, 1887, until December, 1888, he. continued his pastoral labors in the JMarquette Church, after which he was assigned to the Pax- ton Church, of which he has since been pastor, cov- ering a period of nearly four years. The Rev. Mr. Olsson is a scholarly man, of commanding- presence, affable and courteous in manner, earnest and able in the discharge of his duty, and has grown in popularity witii his congregation from the time of his becoming their pastor to the present. The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Paxton was organized in 1863, by Dr. T. N. Ilasselquist, who was the first pastor, and the following-named members were its first officers: P. Erickson, Secre- tary; P^ric Carlson, C. M. Johnson and Emanuel Collins, Trustees; P. Peterson, S. Randall, C. An- derson, N. P. Nelson, J. Olson and Swan Ander- son, Deacons. The first meetings of the society- were held m the public school building, which was subsequently purcli.ased and used for a house of worship in 1872, when the congregation hav- ing increased beyond its capacity of accommod.a- tion, the present church was built at a cost of $10,000. The building is 45x100 feet, with a spire one hundred feet in height; 1*700 was ex- pended for seats and in 1884 a fine pipe organ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 535 was purchased at a cost of ^1,200. Besides the church edifice, tlie society has a schoolliouse worth $1,000 and a parsonage wortli $1,200. At this writing, the church property of this society is valued at $15,000. Two teachers are employed in the parochial school, and the scholars number one hundred, while the Sunday-school, with oHlcers, teachers and scholars, numbers three hundred and twenty-seven. Dr. Hasselquist served as pastor from 1863 until 1875, when he was succeeded by the Rev. N. T. Winquist, who served from 1875 until 1879, when Rev. A. I'^dgren became pastor. He remained in charge from 18711 until December, 1888, when the Rev. E. P. Olsson, tiie present pastor, entered upon the duties of the position. The congregation of this church numbers nine hundred and eight^'-five members, of whom six hundred and nine are communicants, and is the largest church in Ford County. Many of its mem- bers are farmers living in Patton and adjacent townships. TACY DANIELS, the oldest living settler of Paxton, and a plasterer by trnde, was born in Hamilton County, Ohio, December 27, 1825. He is descended from one of the Revolutionary heroes, his grandfather serving in the struggle for independence and his father in the War vf 1812. His mother was in her maiden- hood Jliss Lottie Carnahan and by her marriage she became the mother of six children: Jacob, who died in 18(U; Martha, wife of William Hoffman, died in 1889; William died in 1877;. John is a car- riage maker of Paris, Ky., and Sheriff of his county; Frances M. is the wife of Herman Lawrence, of Cincinnati, Ohio; Stacy is the next younger. The father was called to his final rest October 12, 1825, but the mother long survived, her death occurring in 1879. We now take up the personal history of our subject, knowing that this record of his life will prove of interest to many of our readers. During his boyhood, the winter mouths were spent in at- tendance at the district schools, while in the sum- mer season he aided in the labors of the farm. At the age of seventeen, he began life for himself and the occupation to which he was reared he no longer followed, but turned his attention to the plasterer's trade, at which he served a four-years' apprenticeship. It has been his life work and he has followed it faithfully, therebj"^ accumulating a comfortable competence. Mr. Daniels was married, December 27, 1849, to Miss Margaret Rush, who died February 13, 1859, and was buried in the Old Settlers' Graveyard of Paxton. Four children were born of that union, but Martha and Mary A. are now deceased; and Cora, the youngest, died in infancy. Emma, the third child, is the wife of Edward Field, a travel- ing salesman employed by the Standard Oil Com- pany of Chicago. On the 25tli of July, 1865, Mr. Daniels was again married, his second union being with Mary Williams. They had one child that died in infancy. His wife died October 1, 1867. On June 23, 1868, he married Rebecca Kempton, by whom he has one child, Albert K. Mr. Daniels first came to Illinois in October, 1856, locating in what is now Paxton, but the same winter returned to Ohio, and in April, 1857, brought his family to Prospect City, as Paxton was then called. There were not more than twelve families in the place at that time and the mercan- tile trade was carried on in one small store, the properly of Messrs. Lewis cfe Donley. Mr. Daniels purchased twelve acres of land, where the beauti- ful home of Geo. Shepherdson now stands. In the fall of 1859, he went to California, making the trip by water to San Francisco, where he worked at his trade until the spring of 1861, when he re- turned to his home for the purpose of enlisting in the service of his country. Going to Ohio, on the 22d of August, 1862, a private of the P:igiit3'-third Ohio Infantry, he was made (Quartermaster-Sergeant until August 3, 1863, when he was mustered as (Quartermaster, continuing in the service until the expiration of his term of service, when he was hon- orably discharged at Natchez. Having received a Captain's commission, he was mustered out as such. The most important engagements in which he participated were at Chickasaw Bluffs, Arkansas 536 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Post, Sabine Cross Roads, Pleasant Hill, Vicks- burg and tlie battle of Mobile. His army experi- ence covered a period of three j^ears and he had proved himself a faithful soldier and made an honorable war record. On again coming to Paxton, Mr. Daniels once more resumed work at his trade and lias since made this city his home. Upright and honorable in all his business relations, he has won the confi- dence of all with whom he has been brought in contact, and has thereby received a liberal patron- age. In politics, he is a stanch supporter of Repub- lican principles, and in his social relations was an Odd Fellow for many years. He has long been ideiiliiicd uilh the history of Paxton, has witnessed almost ils entire growth and has ever borne his part in the promotion of those interests calculated to prove of public benefit. His wife and daughter arc cliurcli members. -^^- ..jl NDREW D. ANDERSON, who owns and (©/lJU operates a fine farm of two hundred acres on section 28, Patton Township, was born in Sweden on the 1st of May, 1842, and spent his childhood daj's in his native land. No event of S))ecial importance occurred during his youth. He resided upon his father's farm and at- tended the public schools, where he acquired a fair education. On attaining his majority, he bade good-bye to the land of his birth and emi- grated to the New World, sailing in 1863 from Copenhagen to Hamburg, where he boarded the well-known steamer "Saxonia," and after sixteen days arrived in New York, about the 1st of Octo- ber. It was an important day of his life when he determined to come to America, for his career has been a prosperous one, and, although in those early days he had many obstacles to encounter, he has steadily worked his way upward and is now in comfortable circumstances. Mr. Anderson made his first location in Chicago, but spent only a week there, after which he came to Paxton, and spent the winter with Prof. Hazel- quist. In the summer of 1864, he began working upon a farm by the month, entering the employ of Ben Dei, witli whom he remained for ten years, or until the death of that gentleman. Mr. Dei in- terested himself in behalf of our subject and bought an eighty-acre tract of land for him, which he was to pay for as he could find oppor- tunity. In 1874, Mr. Anderson returned to Sweden, and spent two months in visiting the old home and the scenes of his childhood, and passing many happy hours with his relatives and friends of his youth. Tlie following July lie re- turned to this country and the next year located on the land which he had previously purchased, and which is still his home. In March, 187o, in Ford County, Mr. Anderson married Miss Augusta Carlson, who is a native of Sweden and came to Paxton when a young lady. They have two children, a sou and a daughter: Emil Ephraim and Anna Sophia, botli attending school. Mr. and Mrs. Anderson began their do- mestic life upon the farm which is still their home. Although it was then uncultivated, he at once be- gan to clear and operate it, and soon rich and fer- tile fields were j'ielding him a golden harvest in return for his labors. As time passed and his financial resources increased, he added to his farm by additional purchase, and now has two hundred acres of land in Patton Township, together with a quarter-section of land in Iowa. Near his com- fortable home, which is a substantial residence, are good buildings, and these, in turn, are sur- rounded by well-cultivated fields. In his political attiliations, Mr. Anderson is a Republican, having been a stanch advocate of that party since he cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. U. S. Grant. However, he has never sought public office, the attractions of the political arena having never called his attention from his business cares. He and his wife are memliers of the Luth- eran Church, of Farinersville, and take an active interest in its work, Mr. Anderson having served for about fifteen years as Trustee of the church. His residence in Ford County covers a period of about thirty years, and he has, therefore, wit- ne.ssed much of the growth and development, and has aided in its upbuilding and advancement. He is , 1865. He was twice wounded, once a ball cutting across the top of his head, inflicting a scalp wound, and ere that was healed, contrary to the orders of the surgeon, ho ran away from the hospital and joined his regiment. A few days later he was wounded in the left arm, which partially disabled it for life. Wlien Joe Fifer was wounded and the doctor said only ice would save his life, Mr. Lott volunteered to make the attempt to i)rocure it, which though very haz- ardous, was successful. Gov. Fifer has often spoken of Mr. Lott as the one who saved his life. Mr. Lott was a brave soldier, ever found at his post of duty, and when discharged held the posi- tion of Sergeant. After returning from the war, Mr. Lott attended the Wesleyan College, of Bloomington, 111., and in that city he was married, on the 1st of .January, 1867, to Margaret A., daughter of .James and Maiy E. (Stevenson) Gibson. Mr. Gibson was born in South Carolina, being of Swiss and Irish extraction, and when seventeen }'ears of age. went to Gieene County, Ohio, where he married Miss Stevenson, who was a native of that county. He died in Greene County in 1849, but his wife, who after- waud married again and emigrated to Indianapolis, survived until 18!) 1. Of the first marriage were two children: Margaret A., and Martha R., now the wife of Bruce McCoinLick. She came to Bloom- ington, III., in 1865, where she was joined by her sister the next year. Having married Mr. Lott, she came with him to Gibson City in 1861), and was soon after joined by her sister. The shanty, 12x14 feet in dimensions, liuilt by Mr. Lott w.as the first building to mark the site of what is now Gibson City, but before winter was over he had a good frame house erected. He laid out the town in 1871, and named it Gilison, in honor of his wife's maiden name. He was in- strumental in securing the post-ottice there, but as it was so much like Gilson, another town in the State, the oftiee was changed to Gibson City. He was the prime mover in securing the railroad for (iribson, and in every public enter|iri.-c took an act- ive interest. Mr. Lott was a Republican in politics, but not an oflice-seeker. He was very popular, much be- loved, and always in sympathetic touch with the poor. He was a member of the Christian Church, and died in that faith on the 18th of September, 1879. In honor of him, the Grand Army Post of Gibson City was named Lott Post, No. 70. He left no family save his wife, who is now ISIrs. O. II. Damon and is the oldest living settler of Gibson. In every thing that would lietter society, he took a deep interest and was very liberal vvith ins means. After Gibson City was laid out, he gave his atten- tion to the real-estate business, accumulating good property. He deserves great credit, as he was a self-made man, and one of which any community might be proud. [era . \i, , p^ AMUEL MACK WYLIE, jM. D., of P axt( n ^^^^ established a practice in this city, in 1878, %jff_^ Jind has since conducted it with marked success up to the present time, covering a period of fourteen years. The Doctor was born in Oakland, Coles County, 111., on the 15tli of July, 1855, and is a son of Dr. .Jonathan D. and Agnes (Crawford) Wylie, a sketch of wliiini appears else- where in tliis work. Our subject received his literary education in 540 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. the Indiiiiiapolis Higli School and Monmouth Col- lege, of Monmouth, 111. After completing his collegi.ate CDurse, he entered upon the study of medicine n,t the Chicago Medical College, from which he was graduated with honors in 1878, be- ing the valedictoiian of his class. On taking his degree, he at once entered upon the practice of his profession in Paxton, wliere he iiad made his home in 1868. In order to better perfect himself in the line of liis profession, Dr. Wylie spent some months, at intervals, in study and hospital practice in New York City, and, in 1890, for the same purpose, lie made a tour to Europe and pur- sued tlie study of medicine and surgery under the most distinguished practitioners of London, Eng- land; Loipsic, Dresden and Berlin, riermany; and of Paris, France. On the I'JtIi of June, 1879, Dr. Wylie was united in marriage to Miss Emily Bushnell, the wedding being celebrated in Paxton. The lady is a native of Illinois, born iu Lisbon, Kendall Count}-, and a daughter of S. P. Buslinell, lately President of the First Nati(jnal Bank of Paxton. The Doctor and his wife are b:)th members of tlie Methodist Church of this city and hold a high rank in social circles. Tlie political views of Dr. Wylie are those of the Republican i)arty, but he has never sought or desired public olHoc, the only office he has held be- ing that of Cit}' Piiysician of Paxton, and that position he resigned on going to Europe in 1890. He is a member of the Central Illinois Medical Society, of the State Medical Society and of the American iNIedical Society, being President of the first-named. He also belongs to Paxton Lodge No. 416, A. F. & A. M.,and Ford Chapter No. 113, R. A. M., of Paxton. Dr. Wylie has proved very proficient in surgery, for which he has a decided talent and special fond- ness and he has, by uniform success — often in com- plicated cases — won a State-wide reputation in that branch of his profession, while in general practice, he has been uniformly successful. His surgical instruments and appliances are of the best modern stj'le of manufacture and were purchased in the Inrgest cities of America and P^urope as opportunity offered, and iu extent and variet}' are unexcelled iu the State. He has a large and well-selected lil)rary of medical, scientific and historical works and standard books in other fields of literature. He is a liberal patron of current literature in the line of his profession, so that he keeps well up with the scientific and medical discoveries of the time,■^. ^ \f AMKS C. KIRKPATRICK is a merchant and grain dealer of Kirks, 111. He is a na- tive of Adams Count}', Ohio, born February 13, 1837. Mitchell Kirkpatrick, his father, was born in the same county and State, wiiile liis grandfather, Adam Kirkpatrick, w.as also a native of Adams County, of Irish parentage, the Kirk- jjatrick family being among the first settlers of Adams County. Adam Kirkpatrick was a soldier in the War of 1812. He was twice married and reared a family of eighteen children, nearly all of whom grew to ma- ture years and became heads of families. Mitchell Kirkpatrick grew to manhood in his native county and there married Susan Gylinger. who was a na- tive of West Virginia and who moved to Adams County, Ohio, with her father, George G^ylinger, in an early day. After their marriage, Mitchell Kirkpatrick engaged in farming in Adams Count}' for a number of ye.ars, and, in 18.51, removed to Illinois and settled on a farm in McLean County, where he resided until his death, in 1854. His re- mains were interred in Oak Grove Cemetery. His wife survived Jiim a number of years and departed this life at the residence of her daughter near Den- ver, Col., in 1889, but was buried in Oak Grove Cemetery l\y the side of the body of her husband, where a monument marks lier last resting place Both were lifelong members of the United Pres- b3terian Church. James C. Kirkpatrick is third in order of birth In a family of live sons and three daughters who grew to mature years. Of this family, the eldest, George L., died in Kansas in 1889, leaving a large family; Adam IC. resides in Arkansas City, Kan., living a retired life; James C. is next in order of birth; Joseph P. resides in Arkansas City, Kan. and is now living a retired life; he was a soldier PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPmCAL RECORD. 541 during the late war. Wilson B. resides in Topcka, Kan., and is engaged in merchandising; Susan L is the wife of J. AV. Wannsfield of Arkansas City, Kan.; Catlierine C. is the wife of Franlv Woodley and resides near Denver, Col. .James C. Kirkpatrick came to I lliiiois with his parents a youth of sixteen, and remained on tlie farm of his father until his father's death, and with his mother until his majority'. lie had but limited school advantages. After the death of his father, the management of the farm and the care of the family greatly depended on him, his school d.ays being thus cutshort. lie was united in marriage in McLean County, April 16, 1857, to Miss Sarah A. White, a native of Pennsylvania, born in Wash- ington County. When but eleven years of age, she removed with her father, Patterson White, to Ohio, and to McLean County, 111., in 1851. After his marriage, Mr. Kirkpatrick rented land and farmed for four years in McLean County. lie then pur- chased a farm at Oak Grove in that county, where he remained two j-ears and then sold and moved to Livingston County, where he bouglit raw land and opened up a farm and continued there for six years. In 1871, he sold his Living- ston County farm and, removing to Ford Count}', purchased one hundred and sixty acres in Button Township, near Kirk Station. Only forty acres of this land had been broken, but a small residence had been erected on it. He at once commenced the work of improvement and afterwards pur- chased more land, and at this time owns five hundred and eight}' acres which is under cultiva- tion. In addition to this, he has helped his two oldest sons each to a good eighty-acre tract. In 1879, Mr. Kirkpatrick engaged in the grain business at Kirk Station and a little later also en- gaged in merchandising, in which lines of business he has continued to the present time. In 1888, he moved his family to the village. lie has lately erected a fine large residence whicli is one of the best in the place. He has also built a grain eleva- tor in this i)lace. Mr. Kirkpatrick commenced life for himself a poor man with no means but with a good consti- tution and two willing hands, and by his industry enterprise, and witli the assistance of his most esti- mable wife, accumulated a large estate and is at this time one of the substantial men of Ford County. He has been identified with the Republican party since he became a voter, casting his first Presi- dential ballot for Abraham Lincoln. He has voted for the nominees of the Repuljlican party at every Presidential as well as local election since that time. In local politics, he has taken quite an active part and has served in several positions of honor and trust. He served eight years as one of the Board of Supervisors, and has held other local offices. A friend of education, he is a strong be- liever in and supporter of the public schools. Mr. and Mrs. Kirkpatrick have a family of seven children. The eldest, Anna M., is the wife of Wal- ter Atha of Sparland, 111.; L. M. is a farmer of Ford County; John B. resides in Clarence and assists his father in the mercantile and grain busi- ness. He is married and has a family; Minnie is the wife of J. W. Healey, a railroad agent of Kirk Station; Lorenzo J. resides at home; Ellie C. is the wife of Sherman Frederick, an active and promi- nent business man of Kirk Station ; Jessie Maud re- sides at home. Mr. Kirkpatrick has been a resident of Illinois since the age of sixteen and of Ford Count}' nearly a cpmrter of a century. He is well known in Ford and adjoining counties. He is one of the most enterprising and public-spirited of the citi- zens of Button Township, and is a man of sterling, upright character, esteemed by all. He and his wife are active members of the United Presbyte- rian Church. ;«l Ik ILLIAM H. H. ELLIOTT, an enterprising \/\/i '^•'"'""''' ''esiding on section 25, Button \^f^ Township, is a native of Ohio. He was born in Morgan County, on tlie 7th of December, 1835, and is the second in order of birth in a fam- ily of eight children, burn unto Matthew and Anna (Wilson) Elliott. The paternal grandfather, Thomas Elliott, was of Irish descent. His son Matthew was born in the District of Columbia, in 17!l'.(, and when a young man of about nineteen 542 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. years, went, to ()l)erlin. Ohio, where he located, becoming one of tlie pioneers of liiat State. Some years after liis marriage, lie settled in Morgan Count}', where he made his home for a number of years, or until 18.52, when he came to Illinois. He took up his residence upon a tract of land in Ford Count}', which is now the home of our subject, and made his home in this community, an honored and respected citizen, until 18K1. His land, he entered from the Government and developed therefrom a fine farm of three hundred acres, upon which he reared his family and continued to make his home until his death, in 1881. He was an old- line Whig, and, at the organization of the Repub- lican party, joined its ranks, becoming one of its stanch sui)porters. He held a number of local oHices, was a valued citizen and was a member of, and helped to organize. Pleasant (Jrove Chapel, a Methodist Church. His wife still survives hiin, and is now living with a daughter in \'ermiIion County. The children of their family were: Matilda, who is deceased; W. H. II., of this sketch; Amos W., who died in September, 1891; Sarah, also de- ceased; Thomas 1\I., a farmer of Nebraska; Hannah .]., wife of E. P. I)awgus, of A'ermilion Count}'; Plnube A., wife of W. R. Wilson, of Hismark, Ver- milion County; and George R., who has been called to his final rest. We now take up the (lersonal history of our sub- ject, who, at the age of sixteen years, came with his parents to Illinois. His educational privileges were limited. While two of his brothers were in service during the late war, he remained with his father upon the farm and managed all the business affairs connected with it. In 1859, in Ford County, Mr. Elliott was united in marriage to Demeris Lyon, who was born in Indiana and there resided until fourteen years of age, when her family removed to Illinois, becom- ing residents of Champaign County. Her father, Thomas Lyon, is numbered among the pioneers of that county. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Elliott have been born nine children, eight of whom are living at this writing: Thomas M., who is engaged in merchandising, in ]>lue (Jrass, Vermilion County; Charles W., farmer of Sioux County, Iowa; AV. IL, who is engaged in the drug business, in I^udlow; Jesse, a student in a school of |>harmacy in Chicago; RoI)ert E., Allen L., Sarah A., and John R., all yet at home. Lillie B. died in 1883, at the age of twenty years. The parents of this family arc members of Pleasant Grove Chapel, Mothodist Episcopal Church, in which Mr. Elliott served as an officer for a number of years. Politically, he is a Repub- lican, having cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln. lie has been called upon to fill a number of local offices, and the duties of those positions he has ever discharged with promptness and fidelity. The greater jiart of his time, how- ever, is devoted to agricultural pursuits, and he now owns a fine farm of two hundred and forty- six acres, the old homestead, which he purchased of the other heirs after the death of his father. It is under a high state of cultivation and well improved, and the neat appearance of the place indicates the thrift and enterprise of the owner. Mr. Elliott is numbered among the early settlers of this community, few having longer resided in Button Township than he. He has ever borne his part in the promotion of its best interests and is numbered among the valued citizens, as well as the honored pioneers, of Ford County. As a far- mer, he has made his life a success and has ac- quired a handsome competence. \tl ENRY C. SPELLINIEYER is a dealer in hardware, stoves and tinware, and Melvin finds in him one of its enterprising and progressive business men. He is also a member of the firm of H. C. Spellmeycr & Co., undertakers, of the same place. His life record is as follows: He is a native of Illinois, his birth having occurred near Lostant, La Salle County, on the 20th of January, 1864. His parents, Charles and Louisa Spellmeyer, are both natives of Ham- burg, Germany and in their youth left the Father- land, emigrating to America. Their marriage was celebrated in this country, and Mr. Spellmeyer en- £^Jy<^ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 545 gaged in farming in La Salle County, III., until 187G, wlica he came, with liis family, to Ford County, lie now follows agiioultural pursuits in Wall 'i'ownshi|), where he and his wife have a pleasant home. Henry C. Spellmeyer, whose name heads this record, spent the days of his boyhood and youth in the usual manner of farmer lads. In the winter season, he attended the district schools and in the summer months his labors were devoted to farm work, but after he had attained to man's estate, he turned his attention to other pursuits. On the 22d of February, 1888, a marriage cere- mony was performed, in Peach Orchard Township, wliieh united the destinies of our subject and Miss Ida Helen Otto, one of Ford County's fair daugh- ters. The lady was born in that township, her father, Michael Otto, being one of its early settlers. She is a member of the German Methodist Church and an estimable lady, who has many friends throughout this community. Mr. JSpellmeyer continued to engage in farming until 1889, when he removed toiNIclvin and estab- lished his present business. In the thiee years that have since passc^d, he has built up a very sat- isfactory trade and is regarded as one of the lead- ing merchants of the town. As a citizen, he is public spirited and progressive and takes an active interest in all that pertains to the upbuilding and welfare of the community. In politics, he is a sup|K)rter of the Democratic party but has never sought or desired public office. •-5- ^^ -5— S^.EMEMBRANCE CLARK, an iionoied [liu- V^/ neer of Ford County, was for many years a prominent merchant of Paxton, where lie ^^iStill resides. He is a native of New Hamp- shire, his birth having occurred in .Strafford County, that State, September 29, 1810. He was reared to agricultural pursuits in his native State, and in 1834 went to Frankfort, Me., where he made his home for about thirteen years. In 1847, we find him a resident of Bangor, devoting his ener- gies to mercantile business, and in 1860, he came to Illinois, locating in Paxton. He soon became a prominent merchant of this place, and in 1867 erected the largest brick house in this city. It is known as Clark's Block and contains Clark's Hall, the principal public hall in town. In 1872, he opened a store, taking as partners his sons-in-law, R. Cruzen and II. R. Daggett. That connection was continued until 1882, when he sold out his share in the business to Mr. Cruzen. In 1834, Mr. Clark was united in marriage to Miss Henrietta Durgin, a daughter of Francis Dur- gin and a native of the old Granite State. The wedding ceremony w.as performed in Tamworth, N. H., and by their union were born six children, but only two are now living: Annie E., the wife of R. Cruzen; and Mary, wife of II. R. Daggett, of Petoskey, Mich. ]\Ir. Clark's life was a busy and useful one, until he was obliged by the weight of j'ears to re- tire from active business. His career has been distinguished by strict integrity and a uniform kindliness that has endeared him to all vvho were privileged to enjoy his intimate acquaintance. No blemish or shadow of wrong-doing has ever fallen across the open page of his life, and his de- clining years are being spent in quiet retirement, after a well-spent and prosperous business career. His wife, the worthy helpmate of a long life, still lives and shares with hir husband the respect and esteem of nianv friends. i^^ ICNRY CL HALL is a grain and commission merchant of Paxton, III., and one of the leading liusiness men of the city. He is a [^^ native of Indiana, his birth having oc- curred in Fountain Connty, (ui the 1 1th of Octo- ber, 1841, and he is a son of .lames I), and Eliza (Wisman) Ihill. in Feliru:ny, 1852, when a lad of eleven years, he came to Illinois with his parents, who settled in what is now known as Henderson '^ Grove, N'ermiiion Connty, since included in Ford County. In the nsual manner of fanner lads, he spent the days of his boyhood and. attended the piililic schools of the pioneer days of that region. 546 PORTRAIT AND UIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Coming to Paxton, he began business m his pres- ent line of trade in INIareh, IHtJ'i, and was associ- ated with Tim Ross, under the lirni name of Ilall ife Ross, at Gibson, as general deah'rs in grain until 1889, since which time it has been known as T. Koss & Co. On the 10th of October, 1872, an important event occurred in the life of Mr. Hall. He was married in Paxton to Miss Mary Pierpont, daugh- ter of Leonard I'iei-pont, and a native of Connecti- cut, who came to Illinois with her parents in 18;")8. Four children have been born to IMr. ami Mrs. Hall, three daughters and one son, and the family circle 'yet remains unbroken. They are Blary T., Bertha M., Edith and Pierpont. All were born in Paxton, where Mr. Hall has made his home since 1860, or for a period covering almost a third of a century. In his [Kilitical atliliations, Mr. Hall is a Republi- can, having cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln at the election of 1864. For six years, he has been a member of the Paxton City Council, proving a capable and efficient of- ficer. In their religious views, he and his wife are Congregationalists, holding membership with tlie church of tliat denomination in Paxton. \' ^ ETER C. BOWEN, one of the pioneer set- ))' tiers of Illinois, was born in Montgomery County, N. Y., on the 8th of .January, 1816, and is a son of Caleb and Ruth (Ran- dall) Bowen. The great-graudfatiier of Mr. Bowen on the paternal side came from Wales and settled in Montgomei'v County, N. Y., prior to the Revo- lutionary War, in which Peter Bowen, the grand- father of our subject, served. Caleb Bowen, the father, was born October 5, 1790, in Montgomery County, N. Y., where he grew to manhood and was married to Miss Ran- dall, who was a native of Vermont, though her grandfather, on her mother's side, w.as from Ire- land. When two ycar.s of age, she emigrated with her parents from her native vState to Montgomery County. Caleb Bowen was a shoemaker by trade, and in 1838 came by wagon to Illinois, locating in Augusta, Hancock County, where he improved a farm for another man, on which he continued to reside until 1845. IJemoving to INIason County, he purclia.sed a farm and improved it. and there he and his wife si)ent the remainder of their da3'S. In their family were nine children, three sons and six daughters, of whom only three are still living. Peter C. Bowen is the ehlest child of the above family and was reared to manhood on a farm, re- ceiving but a limited education at the district schools. Until twent3-eight years of age, he re- mained at liome helping his father to develop a good farm, which was then divided, our subject's share being forty acres. By industry, he increased his land until he wa^ the i)ossessor of one hundred and sixt}' acres, which he sold, and then removed to Hancock County, where he bought the same amount. The Wabash Railroad ran through his farm, and he laid out the town, which was called Bowen in his honor. In 1864, he wemoved to Logan County and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land through which a railroad ran, but afterward sold this and went to McLean County, where he purchased two hundred and forty acres. Financial difficulties overtaking him, he came to Gibson City, where for four years he was night policeman, and. in 1885, was police- man in the Legislature of the State. Since that year he has been engaged in mercantile pursuits in Giljson. In iNIason County, 111., on the 17th of June, 1845, Mr. Bowen was united in marriage with Mary Camp, a native of Morgan County, this State. She died Noveml)er 21), 1846, leaving one son, William IL, an enteri)rising merchant of Gib- son City. Mr. liowen w.as again married, August 2, 1849, this time to Sarah A. Layman, but she, too, w.as called to her final rest, .July 16, 1878. By this marriage he became the father of five chil- dren, but only one is now living, Charles E., the well-known actor. His present wife was Martha A. .Snediker, whom he married September 29, 1880. In political sentiment, Mr. Bowen was a Whig until the rise of the Republican party, when he be- came one of its supporters, but since Grant's sec- ond terra he has been atflliating with the Democ- 1 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 547 racy, of which he is a stanch advocate, though not an olllce-seeker. Religiously, he has been a mem- bei- of the Methodist E|)iscopal Church for fifty- one years and is one of the active workers in his Master's vinej'ard. lie is a man of sterling worth and is highly esteemed by all whi) know him as one of the leading citizens of the community. Socially, he is a Master M.isou. f/_^KNRY T. STEINMANN is successfully en- gaged in farming on section 3, Wall Town- ship, lie may well be called one of the ^) self-made men of the county, for when he started out in life fur himself he had no capital save a 3'ouug man's bright ho|)e of the future and a determination to succeed, and he has succeeded. By his industrj' and enterprise, he has worked his way upward and is now the owner of a fine farm which yields him a good income. Mr. Steinmann was born in the town of Blots- lieim, Prussia, on the 9th of August, 1838, and was the fourth child of Gerhardt Steinmann who is mentioned in the sketch of Frederick Steinmann on another page of this work. Our subject grew to manhood on his father's farm and acquired his education in the public schools, which he attended between the ages of six and fourteen years. He was a man of twenty-eight j'ears, wiien, witli his father, he crossed the broad Atlantic to America, in 1866, sailing from Bremen to New Orleans, where he anived about ten weeks later. He then went up the Mississippi River to St. Louis, where lie si)ent a short time, after which he resided for one year in La Salle County, working as a farm hand+by the month. The year 1868 witnessed Ins arrival in Ford County, where he has since made his home. He rented land for five years and then bought eighty acres on section 4, Wall Township, where he has since c.nrried on general farming and stock-raising. An important event in the life of Mr. Steinmann occurred ere leaving his native land — his mar- riage with Miss Cliarlotte Winter, who was born in Sockhausen, and roared in the same neiii;hborliood as her husband. Their union was celebrated in April, 1851, and has been blessed with a family of three children: Henry, who was born in (Jermany, and died in his native land; Henry, the second of that name, who was born in German^' and is a merchant of Roberts, 111.; and Frank, who was born in Ford County and is still living on the htune farm. The sons were given good educations both in German and English. Mr. Steinmann and his family hold membership with the Lutheran Church and are quite promi- nent people in this community, being held in high esteem for their sterling worth. In addition to the property of her husband, Mrs. Steinmann owns two hundred and forty acres of good land. In politics, our subject is a Republican and cist his first Presidential vote for Gen. (irant. He has served as School Director and is a warm friend of educational and other interests calculated to bene- fit the communit3\ but has never sought public office, preferring to devote his entire attention to his business, and the success which has crowned his efforts shows the wisdom of this course. ^^Tl= ,p^ AMUEL G. RANDLES, who is now living a retired life f>n his farm on section 18, Patton Township, is one of the representa- tive citizens and honored pioneers of the county. A native of the Empire State, he was born in W.asliington County, under the shadows of the Green Mountailis, October 15, 1830. The family is of Irish origin and was founded in America by the grandfather of our subject, Hugh Randies, who left his home on the Emerald Isle and Ijecami one of the pioneer settlers of Washing- ton County, N. V In that county. William Randies, father of our subject, was born and reared, acquiring a g(;od ed- ucation in the public schools. lie served as a sol- dier on the north frontier in the War of 1812. After lie had anived at man's estate, he married Nancy (iiilhrie, also a native of New York, and after his marriage engaged in farming in Washing- ton County, whure he reared his family and S[)ent 548 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. the greater pari of Lis life. The death of his wife occurred iu 1857. and in 1868 he came to Illinois and spent two 3'ears wilii his son, but on the ex- piration of that period returned to his old home, where he resided until his death in 1870, an hon- ored and I'especled old gentleman. lie held dur- ing his life several local otlicial [)Ositions of honor and trust and was a lifelong member of the Pres- byto-ian Church, in the work of which he took an AcWfe interest. Our subject is tiie third in order of birtli in a family of six sons and two daughters, of whom four sous are yet living. He grew to manhood in his native count}'^ and his youth was spent upon a farm and in attendance at the common school. He afterwards completed his education in a higiier school in his native State. He then engaged in teaching, which profession he followed for several years during the winter months, while in the sum- mer season he worked upon a farm. Wlien he had attained to man's estate, he engaged in clerk- ing for about a year, wlien tlie sickness of his father called him from the store to the liome farm, and he afterwards engaged in agricultural pursuits iu partnership with his brothers for several jears. On the 30th of November, 186"!, Mr. Randies and Miss Margaret P. Barkiey were married. The lady was also a native of Washington County, N. Y., and a daugiiter of Robert Barkiey, who was born on the Emerald Isle and came to the United States when a youngman. In 1867, Mr. Randies brought his family to Ford County, III., locating on a farm adjoining the then small village of Paxton. His land was but slightly improved, but he has had it tiled, built good barns and oilier outbuildings, a comfortable residence, and made other improve- ments which have transformed the farm into one of the valuable places in tlie count3^ With the exception of one j'ear spent in mercantile pursuits in Paxton, he has devoted his energies to nothing but agricultural pursuits. However, he is now liv- ing a retired life after many years spent in faith- ful labor which brought him a comfortable compe- tence and now enables him to rest from active business. In 188;5, Mr. Randies was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife. Two children had been born of that union: Willie, who died at the age of sis months, iu 1868, aud Hattie, who died May 2, 1879, in her fifteenth year. On tlie 8th of Jul}', 1891, Mr. Randies was again married, his second union being with Mrs. Lucretia Wilson, who was horn and reared in Indiana. Her father, .John Castle, was a native of South Carolina and became one of the pioneers of the Hoosier State. He removed with his family to Iowa when his daugh- ter was a maiden of sixteen summers. In Albia, Monroe County, that State, she afterwards became the wife of David Wilson, who was one of the bo^'s in blue during the late war, serving in an Indiana regiment. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson afterwards came to Ford County, and engaged in farming in Pat^ ton Township for a number of years prior to his death. Two children were borp unto them but both are now deceased: Anna Eudora, who died at the age of ten \'ears, and Laura Amanda, who died at the age of six years. jMr. and Mrs. Randies are members of the United Presbyterian Church of Paxton, of which he is an Ehler. This worthy couple rank high in social circles and are well and favorably known through- out the community, being greatly esteemed by their many friends. They well deserve represen- tation in this volume and it is with pleasure that we record their sketch- iii^ eHARLES A. NORDGREN is a member of . the firm of R. Cruzen & Co.. hardware , merchants of Paxton, and is recognized as one of the leading business men of the jilace. His life record is as follows: He was born in Wester- gotland, Sweden, on the 23d of October, 1861, and is a son of Charles and Caroline Nordgren. He received liberal educational advantages, pur- suing a collegiate course in Jonkoping College, and, at the age of t\ventj% crossed the Atlantic to America. This was in 1881. The first year after his arrival iu tiie United States was spent in Chi- cago and in 1882, he came to Paxton, where he secured a position as salesman with the hardware firm of Clarke ik Cruzen, serving these gentlemen i^M.ccn t' '^'-(yiAX^^ ((2ii<^ ^iAA PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD 553 ill tli;it capacity until 1!S',M), wlioii he bought an iiiti'ivst in tlie liusinos.s aiul has since been a iiiem- lier of the linn. On the nth of Felinmry, 1885, Mr. Nordgren was united in marriage to Miss Emma S. Krickson, a (iaiighler of .lohn Eiickson. The lady is also a native of Sweden and, when a maiden, came to America, taking up her residence in Paxton. The father of our subject died in the Old Country but his mother still survives and is yet living in .Swe- den. Since becoming an American citizen, Mi"- Nord- gren has held the views of the Republican party but has never sought or desired official preferment. Socially, he is a member of Paxton Camp, 'SI. W. A., and he and his wife hold meinbershii) with the Evan- gelical Lutheran Church of this place. An active young business man is Mr. Nordgren and a thor- ough master of his business, and lie also maintains an excellent reputation for integrity and fair and honest dealing. The firm receives a liberal pat- ronage, of which it is well deserving. i ■5o~~ ^ ■^ffAMES B. FOLEY, one of the substantial farmers of Drummer Township, who is also extensively engaged in the breeding of tine horses, owns a i)leasant home on section 20. He w.as born in Adams County, Ohio, October 30, 1847, and is a son of John and Rachel (Burnside) Foley, natives of Washington County', Pa. They were married in that county in 1844. Shortly afterward they removed to Ohio, and wlien our subject was a child of three summers, came to Illi- nois, locating on a farm in Putnam County, where they resided until 1891. In that year, they re- moved to Gibson City, where they are now living retired. Both are members of the Presbytcri.an Church, and are highly respected people. In his political alliliations, Mr. Foley is a Republican, and is a very prominent citizen. Tlu' children of the family, eight in numlier, are as follows: lMary,now deceased; James, of this sketch: Martin, William C, Martha, Anna, Elmer and Frank. In the usual manner of farmer lads, James 15. Foley was reared 23 to manhood. His primary education, acquired in the common schools of the neighborhood, was sup- plemented by a year's study in the Normal School, of Normal, HI., and one year in the University of niinois, and he was thus well fitted for business. He remained under the parental roof until twentj'- two years of age, when he started out in life for himself and engaged in farming through the sum- mer months .and teaching in the winter season, fol- lowing the latter profession for eight terms. An important event in his life occurred on the 24th of December, 1874, when was celebrated his mar- riage with Miss Olive Skeel, who was lioin in Put- nam County, 111., and is a daughter of L. li. and Flora (Morrison) Skeel, who were of Welsh and Scotch descent. Two children have been born of their union, but F'rank V.,the younger son, is now deceased. John L. is still with his parents. In 1874, Mr. F^oley came to this county and is now numbered among its most substantial farmers. He owns two hundred and forty acres of valuable land, under a high state of cultivation and well improved, and in connection vvith general farming, he makes a specialty of the breeding of fine horses. In 1887, he made a trip to England to purchase heavy draft horses. He now has fifteen full-blooded shire horses on his farm. Mrs. Foley accompanied him to the old world. The^' visited Glasgow, Edinburg, Perth, Sterling and Alierdeen, in Scot- land, and Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Rugby and Shefiield, England. They spent four days in the city of London, being present at the time of Queen Victoria's Jubilee, in September, 1887, when was celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of her reign. Mr. and Mrs. Foley were admitted to see the i)res- ents given the Oueeu. Mr. Foley has led a busy life, yet has found time to serve his fellow-citizens in public posi- tions, having filled the offices of Highway Com- missioner and School Trustee. In politics, he is a Republican and one of the stalwart advocates of that party's principles. Himself and wife are prominent members and active workeis in the Presbyterian Church, and Mr. Foley has served .as an officer both in church and Sunday-school. In May, 1892, he was one of the commissioners elected by the Bloomington I'resbytery as its rep- 554 PORTRAIT AND BIOGEAIillCAL RECORD. resesentatives to the One Hundred and Fourth General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church. His wife accompanied him. They made the journey by way of the Union Pacific Hailroad and returned by the Nortliern Pacific. Mr. Foley is a charitable and benevolent man, iniblic-spiritcd and progres- sive, and has the confidence of all with whom he has come in contact. 4^ =^|e ?RANK S. DAVIS, one of the oldest native irAVS" citizens of Fold County, and a resident of /li, Gibson Citj', was born in Drummer Town- ship, .September 24, 185'J. lie is a son of Dr.,). E. and Ellen (Hall) Davis, the former a native of Dublin, Ohio, where he grew to manhood and in early life began the study of medicine, laler grad- uating from the Cincinnati Eclectic Medical Col- lege. Soon after his graduation, he went South and practiced in Rodnej' and Grand Gulf, Miss., and during the cholera scourge remained at his post of duty, while many other doctors fied the countr}'. In Mississippi, Dr. Davis was united in marriage with Miss Hall, a native of Indiana. About 1849, the Doctor came to Saybrook, McLean County, 111., there practicing about a year, when he came to Ford Count}^ He had an extensive practice and, as he accumulated means, bought land, until he owned seven hundred and five acres, wliich he greatly improved and cultivated. He was also agent for much of the land in this county. Through him, J. B. Lott bought the tract on which Gib,son City was built. He is a highly esteemed citizen and has been called upon to fill many official posi- tions of honor and trust in the county, including that of Supervisor and man}' minor ones. In pol- itics, he was a Whig in early life, but since the rise of the Republican party has been one of its stanch advocates. He was a delegate to the convention that nominated "Dick" Yates for Governor, beinar one of his earnest supporters. On account of rheumatism, he has had to abandon his practice and for the last two years has lived a retired life. Socially', he is a member of the Masonic order. Until 1875, Dr. Davis remained on his farm. which he then sold. In addition to farming and practicing medicine, he was extensively engaged in handling live stock, in partnership with another. Financial reverses ovotook them and, as the Doc- tor was a responsible man, it devolved upon him to pay #2 1,000, which took nearly all the accumu- lations of his many years of toil and sacrifice. Coming to Gibson City, he practiced medicine, while his wife and son ran the Gault House, but in 1881, he removed to Bloomington, remaining there two years and then went to Chicago, where he and his wife still live. He was a very successful physician and during his entire practice never lost a case of lung fever. The Doctor and his wife are consistent members of the Methodist Church. In their family were eight children, of whom seven still survive, four sons and three daughters. Frank S. Davis, the subject of this sketch, was roared to manhood on his father's farm and re- ceived his literary educ.-ition in the district schools of this county. With his parents, he came to Gilison City, and assisted his mother in running the hotel, but when his parents moved to Bloom- ington, he went to Grundy County, 111., where he clerked in a grocery store and assisted in carrying on a creamer^-. Returning to Gibson City, he there remained for a time and then removed to a farm which he carried on until 1891, when he went to Vermilion Parish, La., there j)urchasing rice land. Rheumatism caused him again to re- turn to Gibson Cit}', where he is now engaged as a book-keeper for the firm of Kisser, Holmes & White, Grain Elevator Company. The marriage of Mr. Davis was celebrated in Gibson City, on the 2d of December, 1880, when he was joined in wedlock to IMiss Ida R, Meeks, a native of JIcLean County, and a daughter of Win- ston and CheurLssa (Crigler) Meeks. Her parents were both born in Virginia and came in the same colony to Me Lean County, in 1850, which they made their home until 1873, when they came to this county, where the father afterward died and the mother still makes her home. Of the four children born to this worthy couple, BIrs. Davis is the eldest. The family circle of our subject and his wife has been increased by the birth of six children: Earl M., Mamie R., Tottie M., Thomas E., PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 555 Dora D. .iiid Kdiia M. Tlie mother of tliis faniilj' lioldi nieinlifisliii) with Ibo C'umbeilaiul rresb}'- terian Church and takes an active interest in its work. In |)olilical sentiment, Mr. Davis is a Ucinililican, and is a stanch supporter of that party. He has served a year as Town Clerk and a year as City Clerk. In social circles, he ranks high and is a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Modern Woodmen. AMUEL W. NEWLIN, a contractor and builder, residing in Paxton, is one of the 111 well-known citizens and business men of Ford County, and we feel assured that this record of his life will be received with interest by many of our readers. He was born in Montgom- ery County, Ind., on the 18th of October, 1834, and is of English descent. His father, John New- lin, was a native of Ohio, the Ncwlin family being numbered among the early settlers of the Buckeye State. He there grew to manhood and, after at- taining to mature years, wedded Mary Denniston, also a native of Ohio. They removed thence to Indiana, locating in Waynetown, Montgomery County, where Mr. Newlin followed his trade of coopering, and also operated a farm which he owned close by. He lost his wife about 183U,and, after a few years, married again. Subsequently, he removed to Fountain County, Ind., and later to Putnam County, 111., where his death occurred in 18.54. After the death of his mother, .Samuel Newlin went to live with an aunt, with whom he resided until about fourteen years of age, when the lady was called to her final rest. Two years later, he began .serving an a|)prenticesliip to the carpenter's trade, working for a term of three years. He then continued to follow his choien trade in Indiana until 18,57, when he went to Kansas and was em- ployed as a cariienter and builder in Atchison until the w-ar. Promi)ted by i)atriotic impulses and desiring to aid his country in her efforts to preserve the Union, he enlisted, on the 8th of September, 18G1, as a member of Company C, Eighth Kansas Infuntry, serving until his discharge in September, 1861. For the first eighteen months he was on guard dutj- on the frontier of Kansas. He participated in the battle of Chickamauga, where he received a gun-shot wound in the foot which disabled him for further service, and for several months he was in the hospital in Louis- ville, Ky. He then went to Leavenworth, Kan., where he was mustered out, his three-j^ears' term of enlistment having expired. After receiving his discharge, Mr. Newlin came to Paxton, 111., to visit relatives and recuperate his health, which was broken down through hard ser- vice, and after this object was accomplished, he decided here to locate and engage in cabinet-mak- ing for a year. He then turned his attention to carpentering, and for a (juarter of a century has been one of the leading contractors and builders of Paxton. For the first ten years, his work was mostly in the adjoining country, but since that time he has been emplojed almost exclusively in the city and some of the best residences of Paxton are his handiwork. A marriage ceremony, performed October 29, 1869, united the destinies of Mr. Newlin and Miss May A. Copeland, who was born in New York City, but was reared and educated in Ohio and Illinois, coming to this State when a maiden of thirteen summers. Unto our subject and his wife have been born t'we children: Frederick F., a well-edu- cated young man, now studying dentistry in Pax- ton; Willie E., a graduate of the Paxton High School, now working at the carpenter's trade with his father; Gertrude L. and Myrtle 1!., who attend the home schools. They also lost three children in infancy or early childhood, namely: Evalina, Lcona and Harry. Mr. Newlin cast his first Presidential ballot for Gen. U. S. Grant, and has since been identified with the IJeiniblican party. As every true Ameri- can citizen should do, he feels an interest in politi- cal affairs liut has never sought or desired prefer- ment for himself, lie and his wife are members of the Congregational Chini-li of Paxton, and he also belongs to the (irand Army Post and the Mjisonio 556 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. orders of this cit}'. Mr. Nowliii is well anil favora- bly known as a straightforward business man whose dealings have ever been eharaeterized by uprightness, and botli in business and social circles he is highly esteemed. -^3. ^+^ [^ /p^EORGE W. 15. JOIIiS.SON, Road Comniis- [II ^ — ; sioner of Drummer Township, was born in ^^ McLean County, 111, July U!, 1«15, and is a son of Isaac and Margaret (Barnett) .lohnson. The former was born in Kentucky-, where his par- ents were married, but his father was from Ireland and his mother from Wales. In his native State, Isaac Johnson grew to manhood and married Bliss Barnett, who was also a native of Kentucky, though her father was of English and her mother of German extraction. Her father, Moses Barnett, was an extensive horse-raiser and the Morgan stock of horses is traced back to Barnett 's "Money Changer." Among the first settlers of McLean County, 111., were Mr. Barnett and his family-, and prior to "the winter of the deep snow," 1830, the Johnson family also came to the same county, both families locating in the same community. John- son's Point of Buckle's Grove was named in honor of Isaac Johnson's father. Both the Johnsons and Barnetts passed through all the hardshii)S of |)io- neer life in Illinois, and so scarce were the ordinary implements used on a farm, that Margaret Barnett rode fifteen miles on horseback to borrow an auger. In McLean County, 111., Isaac Johnson and Miss Margaret Barnett were married in 1833, he being nineteen years of age and she seventeen. They be- gan their domestic life in an old-time log cabin. In his younger years, Mr. Johnson farmed, but later worked at the plasterer's trade. Though deprived of school advantages, he became a well-informed man, especially in the .Scriptures, and for many years was a local minister in the Missionary Baptist Church. For six or seven years lefore his death, he was an invalid from rheumatism and heart trouble and was called to his final rest in 1864. In politics, he was first a Whig, and subseipiently an Abolitionist, but on the organization of the Re- publican i>arty, he joined its ranks and became one of its stalwart supporters. His wife, who was also a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, died in 1888. In their family were thirteen children, seven sons and six daughters, of whom nine are still living. Five of the boys served their country during the late war, the eldest, AVilliam (i., being a member of Company C, One Hundred and Seventh Illinois Infantr}', serving in the cai)acity of a blacksmith; Andrew joined Company C, Twentieth Illinois Infantry, and after serving a short time was discharged on account of disability; Thomas served in Company C, Twentieth Illinois Infantry, three jears, and then veteranized but died in Andersonville Prison, on the llth of February, 1861; Joshua H. served three years in Company I, Thirty-ninth Illinois Infantry, and tlieu veteranized, serving in all nearly Ave years. George W. B. Johnson, who served in the same company, is the sixth child in the above family'. He was reared McLean County and received his education in the old log schoolhouse. When four- teen 3ears of age, he began carrying mail from Bloomington to Champaign on horseback, a dis- tance of flfty-one miles, making the trip twice a week, and was thus engaged for three years. In August, 1863, Mr. Johnson enlisted in Com- pany I, Thirty-ninth Illinois Infantry, and his regiment was sent to the Army of the James. The first battle in which he participated was Bermuda Hundred, and was followed by the battles of Duras Bluff, Weir Bottom Church, siege of Petersburg, Deep Bottom, Chapen's Fiirm, and Darliytown Crossroads, where he was wounded in the left knee, injuring him for life. This was followed by the battles of Ft. Gregg and Appomattox Court House. In all, he was in twenty-three engage- ments, or in all in which his regiment took part after he joined it. He was discharged at Richmond, on the 2d of May, 186.5. Returning to McLean County, Mr. Johnson en- gaged in farming, and on the 3d of April, 1867,- married Sarah Ferguson, a native of Ohio. By this union were born nine children, five of whom are still living: Ernest E., .lohn I., Harry F., Mary E. and Georgie B. Upon his marriage, our subject .^>^" .^^ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 659 came to Ford County, where lie suijcrintcndcd the breaking and improving of a large farm, but a 3'ear later returned to McLean County and carried on mole ditching. In 1870, lie .again came to Ford Count}- and engaged in fanning, but in the year 1875, he superintended one of the Sullivant farms in Sullivant Township. The following year, he came to Gibson City, since which time he has been engaged in dealing in live stock. On the 27th of December, 18.S8, Mrs. .Tohnson was called home, being a faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. .Johnson was again married, August 22, 1889. to Mrs. Sarah Z. lirickey, daughter of Lemuel N. and Elsa A. (IJrad- ford) IMshop. Mrs. .Johnson was born in Me- chanicsliurg, Champaign County, Ohio, August 19, 1819, and when two and a half years old came with her parents to McLean Count}', 111., where, on the 28th of December, 18G9, she wedded .John II. Brickey, who was a school teacher by profession. He was a stanch Democrat in political sentiment and was Assessor of his townshij) for eight ^-cars. lie departed this life October 1, 1883, beloved by all who knew liiiu. Mv. .Johnson is a Republican in politics and takes an active interest in the success of that party l)ut has never been an offlce-seeker. In 1891, lie was chosen Roa-^^. The mother was born in Cunilierlaud County, Pa., in 1801, and died in 1852. The subject of this sketch was reared to man- hood in his native State and was educated in the common schools. In 1858, he came to Illinois and 568 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. settled in Henderson Count}', where he engaged in farming. (Jn the 27th of November, 1861, lie en- listed for the War for the Union as a member of Company II, Eleventh Illinois Cavalry, of which the celebrated Robert IngersoU was Colonel. He was promoted to be Second Lieutenant, September 6. 1864, became First Lieutenant, March 28, 1865, and served until mustered out on the 16th of Sep- tember following, after the close of the war. Dur- ing his term of service, he participated in the battle of Shiloh; the siege and battle of Corinth, October .3 and 4, 1862; the capture of Vicksburg, battle of Lexington, and in various skirmishes and in much scouting duty. He was made a prisoner at the battle of Lexington, on the 14th of December, 1862, was taken to Murfreesboro, and parolled, af- ter a detention of twenty days. In a skirmish at Egypt Station on tiic Mobile & Oliio Railroad, he was wounded, on the 28th of Decemtier, 1864, by a gun shot in the right hip, that rendered him unfit for active duty until June, 1865. On his return from the army, Mr. Rezener re- sumed farming in Henderson County, 111. He was married on the 16th of September, 1869, in that county, to Miss Louisa Shopshirc, who was born in Muscatine, Iowa, and is a daughter of William Shopshire. Foiu- children have been born of their union: Cena, George, Jennie and Dakota, but the last-named died at the age of seven years. Mr. Rezener continued to reside in Henderson Count}' until 1871, when he removed to Ford County, and settled in ri()er City, where he pur- chased a farm and made his home. In 1884, he took up a soldier's claim and a tree claim in Steele County, N. Dak., made the necessary improvements and proved up on the soldier's claim, returning to his old home in Ford County after an absence of a little less than a year. He still holds the title to both of those tracts. Mr. Rezener continued farm- ing until the fall of 1890, when he was elected Sheriff of Ford County on the Democratic ticket. The county has a strong Republican majority, and our subject was the only successful candidate of his party at the election, which fact he has reason to be proud of as it is a compliment to his personal worth. On tlic 1st of December of that year, on the opening day of court, he entered upon the dis- charge of the duties of the office for a term of four years. While residing in Piper City he held the ottice of Justice of the Peace for two years. Mr. Rezener is a Master Mason, a member of Piper City Lodge No. 608, A. F. & A. M.; and is a mem- ber of Piper City Post No. 361, G. A. R. On his election to the office of Sheriff, he removed liis family to Paxton, but still considers Piper City his place of residence. Mr. Rezener makes an efficient and popular officer, and enjoys the respect of all witli wiiom he has had business or social relations. ■ > l iiyi ' iiy H ^i ^ ? I ( I I 1^.^^ ALPII B. ROCK WOOD, senior memlier of the firm of Rockwood & Foley, dealers in tii \V groceries, glassware and queensware, is y^^ numbered among the leading young busi- ness men of Gibson City. This firm is doing an excellent trade and deserves the liberal jiatronage which it receives. Our subject cbiinis Illinois as the State of his nativity, having been born near Ottawa, Febru- ary 11, 1858. He is a son of John A. and Sarali J. (Lewis) Rockwood, wlio are mentioned else- where in this work. His boyhood days were passed at work on his father's farm and in attendance at the district schools of the county. When four- teen years of age, he accompanied his parents to Ford County, and continued agricultural pursuits until 1883. At that date he came to Gibson City and engaged as a clerk for J. H. White, continu- ing in his employ for six years, thus showing how highly liis services were appreciated by Mr. White. In 1889, he formed a partnership with E. E. Foley in their present business, and the fiiTn became Rockwood i& Foley. They have one of the largest stores of the kind in Gibson City and do a thriv- ing business. Mr. Rockwood was united in marriage to Miss Sarah M. Moore, tlie wedding being celebrated on the 8th of April, 1882, in Gibson City. The lady is a native of Ohio, and is a daugh- ter of Josiah Moore. Two children have been born to this worthy couple: Grace and Ger- trude. The parents are active workers in the Pres- a/ ■f/ ,#:^<(»^ .\ ?*aai5!- X 4 CORBLY. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 571 byterian Church, he being a chorister of both tlie church and Sunday-school. Mr. Hoekwood deserves liigli coiniiicudiilion for Ills success in business life, fur, notwilhsliuiding tlie fact tliat he lias twice had to stai t at tlie bot- loniround of the ladder, lie has, by untiring indus- try and perseverance, worked his way ujiward to jus picsent position. He is now one of the suc- eessfu! young business men of the city, and has secured all that he possesses b}' enterprise and fair dealing. He is public-spirited and progressive, and stiinds high in social as well as business circles. In politics, Mr. Rockwotid is a Republican, and lakes an active interest in tlie welfare of his party. \f/ INDSEY CORBLY, an early settler of the I (@) territory now comprised in Ford County, /I L^^ is a native of Pennsylvania. lie was born in Greene County, tiiat State, on the loth of Ko- vember, 1831, and is a son of William and Ueliecca (Stevens) Corbly, both of whom were natives of Greene County. His father was a son of tlie Rev. John Corbl}', a minister of the Baptist Church and a native of England, who emigrated to America some time prior to the AVar of the Revolution and settled in Greene County, I'a., which was then a wilderness. He had three children in.assacicd by the Indians, and his history has been commemor- ated by several centennial sketches of historic interest, pertaining to the early settlement of that part of the Keystone State. He vviis an active and influential minister, and was the founder of sev- eral churches. Great energy and decision were his prominent traits of character. Ills death occurred in 1803. William Corbly, the father of our subject, was born, reared and married in Greene County, and the same was true of his wife. Thc\' had a lamily of eight children, of whom Lindse^ywas the fourth, and he and three sisters are all that now survive. In 1837, the family emigrated to Athens County, Ohio, now Vinton, and settled atMcArlhiir, where our subject attended the public schools until six- teen years of age, at which time lie left home and entered the service of an uncle, Thomas Stevens, who was largely engaged in the live-stock business in Fairlield County, Ohio, and with whom he made several trips across the mountains with stock to Philadelphia and New York. In 18r)3,he came to Illinois and first settled in Cliain|iaign County. On the 24tli of February, 1856, in Vermilion County, this State, Mr. Corbly was united in mar- riage with Miss Sarah Wood, a daughter of Henry Wood. Their union has been graced with three children, who yet survive: Henry L., who married Julia B. Webber, is a farmer of Harwood Town- ship, Champaign County; William Sherman, who wedded Mary Youle, is an agriculturist of Button Township, Ford County; and James L., who mar- ried Ellen Shehan. His home is in Kerr Town- ship, Chami)aign County, and he also follows agricultural pursuits. In the fall of 1855, Mr. Corbly removed to what is noA' Ford County, and here resided until 1863, when he returned to Champaign County, locating on a farm in the near neighborhood of his Ford County farm. His wife, an estimable woman, died Jaiiuaiy 17, 1866, and on the 24th of March, 1867, he was joined in wedlock, in Meadville,Pa., to Miss Mary A. Sclioll, a daughter of Dr. Peter and Elizabeth (Woodring) Sclioll. The lady was born in Crawford County, Pa., where her family resided for many years. They have three children: Freddie M., Lora F. and Evalyn. Mr. Corbly continued to reside in Champaign County until the fall of 1881, when he came to Paxton, wlieie he has since made his home, a valued and respected citizen. He has been an industrious and thrifty man, and lias succeeded in accumulating a large property, having at the present time four farms, aggregating about seventeen hundred acres of valuable land. He has been largely engaged in growing and deal- ing in live-stock, and for many years has bought, fed and sold stock, and as a rule has been quite successful in the business. In [jolitics, he was a Whig in early life, joining the Republican [larty on its organization. He served .as a member of the first election board in the town of Gibson, Ford County, was a member of the liist Boaid of 572 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. County Coinniissiouers that divided P'oid County into lownsliips, and served as a niemhcr of the flr3t Grand Jury of that county. He was Super- visor of Kerr Township, Champaign County, for eleven years, was Trustee twenty 3ears, and ff)ur years Treasurer of the same township. From youth, he was a Metliodist, and regularly attended that eliurch. but did not unite with it until 1875. His wife, two daughters and eldest son are mem- bers of the same church. Mr. Ctirbly is a steward of the Paxton ciuirch.and is active and influential in its support. His wife is one of the efficient workers among the ladies of her church, and is always to be relied upon to perform her full duty. Mr. Corbly is well known to the citizens of Ford and adjacent counties as a man of unimpeachable integrity and financial respt>usiliility. « l^n.LlAM PHEBUS, who IS ei \/\/l/ '^''■''' f!i'''"'"g t>" section 16, W^l shii), is a native of Indiana. SI I^,ILL1AM PHEBUS, who is engaged in gen- Button Town- ip, IS a native oi inaiana. He was born in Fountain County, on the 10th of September, 1834, and is a son of Edou Phebus, who was born near Chillicothe, Ohio, February 14, 1814. The grandfather, Lewis Phebus, was a n.ative of Vir- ginia, and his familv were among the pioneers of that State. He served as a soldier of the War of 1812. Al)Out 1826, he removed from Ohio to In- diana, and was among the honored pioneers of Fountain Cossesses he has made in that time. lie is a blaeksmitii 1)\- trade, and after loca- tinj; in this loeality, built a sliop and carried on l)iisiness for some twenty years in connection with tiie operation of his farm. In polities, he is a !)cni(HT;it. .-niil lias served as a memher of the Seliuol Hoard for a number of years. He gives his hearty support to the public schools, and his aid is never wilhlield from any wortliy enterprise calcu- lated to |)rove of public benelit. He is a valued citizen of this commuuity, and one well and favor- ably known. ^5- =^^>^^,rpointment of Postmaster of Gibson, but he declined to accept the position on account of business considerations. He is interested in real estate in Chicago and is the owner of a fine farm of three hundred and twenty acres of land in Clarke County, Iowa, which he has rented. He is a practical business man and has been V> 2^jn?^«^ (2//'-'-^''^^y^ ^/^J€-^^/i^ ^ /ui'^n^i^uznj^ POKTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 605 in Mona Township, where lie has since made liis home. He now owns six hundred and forty acres of valuable land, and his farm is one of the most desirable places in the community. The fields are well tilled, he raises a good grade of stock and the manj' improvements upon the place indicate his thrift and enterprise. In 1870, Mr. Scott was united in marriage to Miss Margaret A. Collins, daughter of Philip and Ann Collins. Their union has been blessed with five children: Marniion H., who is now studying law in Kankakee, 111.; LilaMaj-, Frank K., Philip C. and Milla. The Scott household is the abode of hospitality and its members rank high in social circles. Mr. Scott supports the Democratic party and has always taken a great interest in political affairs. He has served his township as School Director, Road Commissioner, School Treasurer .and Town- ship Supervisor, and it is needless to say that his duties have ever been faithfully performed. Mr. Scott is a man of good business ability and sterling worth. His life has been a successful oue, and the prosperity that has crowned his efforts has been well deserved. ■^ ^ OHN F. KI:NNEY, one of the extensive land-owners and a prominent farmer of Ford Count}', residing on section 14, Wall Township, claims Pennsylvania as the State of his nativity, and on the paternal side is of Irish extraction. He was born near Brownsville, Pa., on the 13th of December, 1835, and is a son of James Kenney, who now resides upon a farm which was his birthiilace, and which was located by his father about 180U. It has been the home of the Kenneys since 1802. In connection with its culti- vation, Mr. Kenney has devoted his life and talents to the upbuilding of the Methodist Church, of which he has long been a minister. He married Ann Sproat, who died in the spring of 1837, leav- ing four children, as follows: William, who is now engaged in farming in Ford County; Elizabeth, ■wife of Asbury Greenfield, a resident of Santa 25 Paula, Cal.; C3rus, a farmer and fruit-grower, re- siding in the same place; and .John F., whose name heads this sketch. Rev. Kenney was again married, Feb. 5, 1839, his second union ))eing with Patience IMoore, and they became the parents of seven children, as fol- lows: Benjamin, a fruit-grower of California; Eliza A., now deceased, was the wife of John Freeman, who is engaged in farming; Margaret, wife of Wilson Ward, an agriculturist residing in Washington County, Pa.; James W., who is also a farmer of that county; Rebecca J., and Sarah J., twins; and Mary M., wife of Lewis M. Cleaver, who is a general merchant in Washington County, Pa. The educational advantages which our suliject received were not of a very superior character. He attended school at intervals until about twenty years of age, and under the parental roof he re- mained until after he attained his m.ajorit}'. At length he determined to try his fortune in the West, believing that on its broad prairies one might have better opportunities than were afforded in the more thickly' settled States of the East. It was in 1857 that he became a resident of La Salle County, where he began working by the month on a farm, and was thus employed for two years. He then purchased a team, rented land, and in this way got his start. A marriage ceremony, performed on the 3d of January, 1860, united the destinies of Mr. Kenney and Miss MaryE., daughter of Josephusand Lydia (Clark) Phelps. Her father was a native of M.ass- achusetts, born September 13, 1805. He was reared to manhood in his native State, where he learned the trade of a carpenter and joiner. Coming to the West, he located in Michigan, and in the fall of 1832 took up his residence in Putnam County, where he remained until his death, wliicli occurred February 4, 1892, at the age of eighty -seven j-ears. His wife, who was born October 15, 1820, is still living in Putnam County. She is a member of the Baptist Church and an estimable ladj'. Mr. Phelps was a Universalist in religious belief. They had a famil}- of eleven children, seven of whom are yet living: Fabius E., a mechanic, who is mar- ried and resides in Nebraska; Mrs. Kenney; Irene, 606 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. wife of George Williamson, who resided iu Put- nam County, but died in La Salle County; Calvin Arthur, a carpenter and joiner, who is married and makes liis home in Nebraska; Quincy Irvin, a mechanic, living in Putnam Count}'; Flavins Josephus, a mechanic, who is married and makes his home in La Salle County, and Charles, a me- chanic, who is married and resides in Nebraska. Mrs. Kenney was educated in the common schools and in an academy in her native cit}'. She is a member of the Methodist Church, and her- self and husband aided liberally in the erection of the beautiful church buildings in Wall Township. They began their domestic life in Putnam County, where they continued to reside until 1867, when Mr. Kenney purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 14, "Wall Township, Ford County, but remained in Putnam County, where he made his home until 1872. He then settled upon his present farm, ninety acres of which had been broken, and for twenty years it has now been his home. In connection with general farming, he has engaged extensively in stock-raising, success crowning his efforts, and as his financial resources have increased, he has extended the boundaries of his farm, until he now owns six hundred acres of land, all in Wall Township. He is an enter- prising and successful business man, an industrious farmer, and through his own efforts has accumu- lated a handsome property. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Kenney have been born four- teen children, as follows: Cyrus A., who was ap- pointed to a Government position during Presi- dent Harrison's administration, and is located in Lawrenceburg, K}'.; Belle, wife of Frank D. Calder, a resident farmer of Wall Township; Walter G., Sidney, Lillian, Mary E., Merton D., Irvin and Fletcher N. The other three are deceased. Mr. Kenney was elected to the office of Town- ship Supervisor in 1877, and served as such until 1880. In 1889, he was again the people's choice for that position and still holds the office. He has also served as School Trustee, and at present is the Public Guardian of the County, to which position he was appointed by Governor Fifer in 1890. In politics, he is a supporter of the Republican party and a stanch advocate of its principles. He cast his fli'st Presidential vote for "Honest Abe," the Martyr President of the United States. He is a well-known citizen of the community, and is truly deserving of representation in this volume. "^l OSEPH MITCHINSON, who owns and oper- ates eighty acres of land on section 6, Bren- ton Township, has been an eye-witness of the growth and development of Ford County since an earl}' da}', and he cut away his corn in order that the first house in Piper City could be built. His life record is as follows: He was born in Cumberland County, England. .Tunc 28, 1838, and is a son of John and Frances (Gun- son) Mitchinson, both of whom were natives of England. The mother died in that country in 1857, and in 1869 the father emigrated to America. He spent his last days in Ford County, where his death occurred in 1877. He and his wife were both members of the Episcopal Church. Tiiey had a family of ten children, eight of whom are ^et living, namely: Margaret; Mary, who resides in England; William, who died in infancy; Henry, who was killed at the age of seventeen by falling from the top mast onto the deck below; Joseph, of this sketch; Thomas and Frances, both of whom reside in England; John, who is living near Peo- ria, 111.; Martha, of Chicago, and Kate, wife of M. Cross, of Piiier City. In the usual manner of farmer lads, our subject spent the daj's of his boyhood and acquired a common-school education. At the age of sixteen, he left school and devoted his attention exclus- ively to farm work until twenty years of age, when, on the 3d of June, 1858, he started for America in company with an aunt and uncle. He sailed from Liverpool, and two weeks later arrived at Quebec, whence he went to Chicago and then came to Piper Cit}'. He has since made his home in this locality, where for some time he worked as a farm hand, then operated rented land, and in 1880 purchased a farm in Pella Township. He engaged in its cultivation for some 3'ears and for the past \ear lias made his home upon his present PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD 607 farm on section 6, Brenton Township. It comprises eightj' acres of highly improved hind, :ind the neat appearance of the place in(iicates the owner as one of tlie leading farmers of the community. In 18(i5, Mr. Mitchiuson returned to his native land and was united in marriage with Elizabeth Agnew, who was liorn and reared in Cumberland County, England, and is a daughter of Wilson A. and Jane (Bone) Agnew. Her father was a teacher and taught navigation in a private school. Her mother died after Mrs. Mitchinson came to this country but her father was called to his final rest previous to her emigration to America. Unto our subject and his wife were born six children: Fran- ces Jane; John Wilson, now deceased; ]\Iargaret Ann, Joseph Ilenr^-; Elizabeth Ada, who died in infancy, and Martha Maria. All of the children were born in Ford County, and tliose yet living are still under the parental roof. The parents arc members of the Presbyterian Church of Piper City and are numl)ered among the best citizens of Brenton Township, being held in high regard for their sterling worth. They have a pleasant home and all of their possessions have been acquired througli the untiring efforts of our subject. When he first came to this country, he worked as a farm hand at 814 per month, and bj' his enterprise, good management and the exercise of correct business principles, he has acquired a comfortable home. "iff ACOB FUOSS is a well-to-do farmer of Bren- ton Township, residing on section 26. A native of Germany, he was born in the vil- lage of Bernstadt, Wurtemberg, Ma}' 11, 1839, and is one of three children, whose parents were John George and Maggie Fuoss. The father owned a small farm. Both parents died in their native land. John George, their eldest child, came to America in 1883, and is now living in Nebraska; Jacobin is a resident of Germany. Our subject is the youngest of the children. He was educated in the Lutheran schools and in the public schools, and in 1854 came to America. Bid- ding good-bye to his native land, with three other boys he sailed from Bremen to New York, where he arrived after sixty-three days spent upon the bosom of the Atlantic, lie came on at once to Illinois, and earned his first money by working as a railroad hand between Peru .and Peoria. He then entered the employ of a farmer in Woodford County, .and since that time has been connected with agricultural pursuits. He resided in Wood- ford County until 1856, when he went to El Paso, 111., and in 1851) became a resident of Tazewell Count}', where he worked upon a farm until Au- gust, 1861. B}' that time it was seen that the war was to be no holiday affair, and Mr. Fuoss enlisted in Com- pany E, Seventeenth Missouri Infantry, the regi- ment being formed in St. Louis. In October, the troops were sent to Sedalia, and met the enemy in a skirmish near Springfield. They also participated in the battle of Pea Ridge, l)Ut our subject was ill at the time. In January-, 1863, the}' settled down to the siege of Vicksburg, and with his regiment Mr. Fuoss there remained until the surrender of the city on the 4th of Jul}-, after which he was sent to the Invalid Corps, and went to Rock Is- land in the Fourth Veteran Reserve Corps, where his duty was in guarding prisoners. On the ex- piration of his three-3'ears' term of enlistment, he was honorably discharged, September 24, 1864. His health was permanently injured b}' the hardships and privations of army life. He now receives a pension in recognition of his services. When mustered out, Mr. Fuoss returned to Taze- well County, and, in the spring of 1865, was joined in wedlock to Mary Dingledine, who was born in Tazewell County, and is of German descent. He brought his bride to Ford Count}', and began farm- ing in Brenton Township, having made his home upon his present farm since 1866. He now owns three hundred and forty acres of valuable land un- der a high state of cultivation, and, in connection with general farming, engages in raising fine stock, making a specialty of Clydesdale horses. The im- provements upon the place are in keeping with a model farm, and indicate the thrift and enterprise of the owner. He has led a busy and useful life. 608 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. and has ever borne his share in promoting those interests calculated to prove of public benefit. He cast hie first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln, and has since been a standi Republican. Socially, he is a member of the Grand Army Post of Piper City, and also belongs to the Lutheran Church. Four children grace the union of INIr. and Mrs. Fuoss: Olivia, who is now the wife of Silas Dillon, a resident farmer of Brenton Township; Emma, H.attie and Edward, all of whom are still under the parental roof. Tlie f.imily circle yet remains unbroken, and the members of the Fuoss household rank high in social circles. All the children were born and reared upon the home farm, and were educated in the public schools. Emma was also a student in Grand Prairie Seminary of Onarga, and engaged in te.aehing for several terms. _i-^^ JOHN STADLER, deceased, was born in Baden, Germany, June 8, 18.36, and was a sou of George and Sybilla (Bachfisch) Stad- — ler, who emigrated to America when our subject was a lad of eleven years, and settled in Newark, N. J. The son afterwards became a resident of Cocheeton, N. Y., where he engaged in farming for a time, and was there married to Miss Matilda Detzel, who died in the Empire State leaving two sons, George and John, both in busi- ness in Chicago. He was a second time married in Cocheeton, Sullivan County, on the 14tli of August, 1861, Catherine Valendor becoming bis wife. She is a native of Germany, born in Baden, and a daughter of John and Catherine Valendor. She was a maiden of but six summers when she came to New York, where the death of her father occurred. Her mother died in Baden and Mrs. Stadler came to America with her father and step- mother. Mr. Stadler continued to engage in farming in New York until 1867, when he emigrated West- ward and purchased a farm of one hundred and sixty acres on section 30, Brenton Township, Ford County, 111., where his family now reside. It was then a tract of wild prairie land, but he built a comfortable home, good outbuildings, planted many rods of hedge fence and made other improve- ments, becoming owner of one of the finest farms in this locality. He started in life empty-handed but at his death was the owner of three hundred and sixty acres of valuable land. His success in life was all due to his industry, enterprise, good management and the exercise of correct business principle.'^. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Stadler was born a family of ten children: J.acob, who was born in New York, married Annie Ristow, and is a farmer of Brenton Township; Louis, who died on the home farm at the age of twentv-six years; Catherine, now the wife of Fred Ristow, of Piper City; Frank, who operates the home farm for his mother; William, now deceased; Helen, Sam, Annie, Elizabeth and Charlie, .ill of whom are still at home. Mr. Sadler was a member of the Lutheran Church, to which his family also belongs. In politics, he was a supporter of Democratic principles but was never an oflice-seeker. He was recognized as a valued citizen of the community, who took a com- mendable interest in all that pertained to the welfare of the county and the promotion of its leading enterprises. He died September 26, 1884, at the age of forty-nine years and eight months, and lies buried in Brenton Cemetery. His death was mourned bj' man3' friends as well as his immedi- ate family. He had a wide acquaintance through- out the community. -" •{• •J* •?• •?• 15 ^TiATHER BERNARD E. O'lAIAHONY, Pas- ^^ tor of St. Peter's Catholic Church of Piper I Cit}', is a native of County Limerick, Ire- land. He was born in the town of Bruff, .Tune 29, 1856, and is a son of JIatthow O'Mahony, who was born and reared in the same locality. He was a grocer of that community and there spent his en- tire life, his death occurring in 1882. He married Margaret Emmet, who is still living at the old homestead. She is the only member of her family that never came to this country. Her father, Patrick Emmet, crossed the Atlantic, and was a resident of Tama Coimty, Iowa, for many years, but has returned to Ireland. The live children of the O'Mahony family are Catherine, wife of William Costello, a resident of Limerick Cit3-, Ireland; Maria, a sister in the North Presentation Convent of Cork, Ireland; Matthew and Margaret, both of whom are still with their mother; Father O'Mahony, of this sketch; and one child who died in infanc3'. The parents were both members of the Catholic Churcli, and the father took an active part in Irish politics, advocating the Nationalist part3'. 620 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Our subject spent his early boyliood days with his parents, and began his education in the Ciiris- tian Brotiiers' schools of Bruff. At the age of fif- teen, he went to the Diocesan College, of Limerick, where he spent one J'ear, and then entered Maj'- nooth, the greatest ecclesiastical college in the world. lie there spent eight years, completing the prescrilied course of study at the age of twent^'- fivc. He was ordained a })riest of the Catholic Church on the •29th of June, 1881, in Limerick City. As there were too many priests in that dio- cese, he was sent to the diocese of Clogher in North Ireland, where he remained three years as assistant in Uromore, County- T^'rone. He then returned to the home diocese, where he remained until Septem- ber, 1890. when he crossed the Atlantic to America and became a member of Bishop Spalding's dio- cese in Peoria. He served as assistant in Cham- paign County, w.as at Ivesdale Tor one year, and, since the 1st of November. 1891,h.is been pastor of St. Peter's Church in Piper City. He also has cliarge of St. .James Church in Forest. Not reluctantly did Father O'JMahony renounce his allegiance to Queen Victoria when he took out pajjers as an American citizen. He is an ardent friend of liberty and took a great interest in the National movement in Ireland. He is an intelli- gent and able young man and has already made many friends in this communit}'. He has a fine residence here and is a highly respected citizen. (^^HEOPHILUS M. GLENN, a retired farmer residing in Piper City, who for many years has been a prominent resident of this com- munity, claims Indiana as the State of his birth. He was born in Bloomington, May 13, 1846, and is a son of John Glenn, a native of South Carolina, who during his boyhood emigrated with his par- ents to Indiana and settled in Monroe County. He became an agriculturist, and, in the midst of the forest, hewed out a farm. In that State he mar- ried Margaret C. Graham. They removed to Iowa, where his wife died, and, after a short time, he returned to Indiana, but soon came to Illinois, lo- cating in Henderson County, just across the river from Burlington, Iowa. Upon the farm wliicli Mr. Glenn there purchased, his death occurred at the age of sixty-four. He was an industrious man, and in every community where he resided was regarded as a valued citizen. In politics, he was a Republican, and was a member of the United I'rcs- byterian Church. Of the family one child died in infancy, while four grew to mature years. James H. until recently resided upon the old homestead, but is now living in Monmouth. 111.; Theophilus is the next younger; Edward G., who engaged in teaching for several years and is a graduate of Monmouth College, is now engaged in the real- estate business in Omaha, Neb.; and Sarah A. also resides in Omaha. Our subject was a lad of only five summers when he came with his father to Illinois. Upon the old homestead lie was reared to manhood and was early inured to hard lalxtr. Throughout the summer season he worked upon the farm and in the winter montlis acquired his education in the district schools. He remained at home until 1870, when he came to Ford County, jjurcluased one hun- dred and sixty acres of land on section 35,Brenton Township, in its primitive condition, and began the development of a farm, upon which he made his home until 1888, when, on .account of failing health, he came to Piper City, and has since re- sided in this village, owning a beautiful residence on the outskirts of the town. In Lyman Township, February 21, 1878, IMr. Glenn was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Mosher, a daughter of Alexander and Elizabeth Mosher, who were natives of New York, and now reside in Lyman Township. Mrs. Glenn w.as born in the Empire State, December 13, 1853, and, when a child, came to Illinois, her maidenhood days be- ing spent in Peoria County. Five children have been born of their union, but Emma died in in- fancy. Those still living are Elsie M., Jessie M., Edward M., and Theophilus M. The parents are both members of the United Presbyterian Church and Mrs. Glenn is an active worker in the Mission- ar}' Society. Mr. Glenn has ever borne his part in supporting all worthy enterprises and has taken a PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RPX'ORD. 623 commendable interest in tlie growth and upbuild- ing of the county and the promotion of its lead- ing enterprises. lie cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. Grant in 1868, and has since been a sup- porter of Republican principles. His business career has been one of success, and, by his own unaided efforts, lie has won prosperity. In addi- tion to his home in Piper Citj^, he still owns his farm of three hundred and twenty acres, one of the most desirable places in Brenton Township. It is all tiled, three miles of hedge fence have been set out, and, among the other improvements, are a large house, good barns and outbuildings, all of whicii indicate the thrift and enterprise uf the owner. ^>^^ H !P^^^* OUIS SCHUNK, one of the self-made men of Ford County, and a liiglily respected citizen of Hrenton Township, engaged in farming on section 27, claims Germany as the land of his liirtli. He was born in Bavaria, on the 25th of April, 1K52, and is a son of Louis and Kate (Rupp) Schuiik. His father was born and reared in the village of Webenheim, and throughout his life followed the occupation of farming. He entered the army in 1848, but left it to join the Revolution, but the Revolution failed and he was captured and held as a prisoner for some time. He died in 1880, at the age of sixty years, and the death of his wife occurred in 1872. They were the parents of five children: Louis of this sketch; Jacob, who is engaged in farming near Milwaukee, "Wis.; Christ and Fred, who reside in Germany; and Charles, a resident of New York. "We now take up the personal history of our sub- ject who attended school in his native land until thirteen j'ears of age. The following jear, he came alone to America, anxious to try his fortune in the New World. He sailed from Hamburg to England and from thence came to New York, the 3'ear 1866 witnessing his arrival in Illinois. He located in the town of Morton, Tazewell Count3', where he began working as a farm hand at ^1.25 per day. In 1872, he removed to "Woodford County, where he was married on the 10th of .Tanuary, 1874, the lady of his choice being Miss Mary AVagner, who was born in that county, and there spent the daj's of her maidenhood. Her father was a native of Germany and crossed the broad Atlantic to this country in 1827. His sketch appears in connection with that of .Jacob C. "U'^agner. Six children grace the union of our subject and his wife and the family circle yet remains un- broken. All are still under the parental roof and in order of birth thej^ are as follows: Charles, Emma, Albert, Lizzie, Henry and Mabel. The par- ents are both members of the Lutheran Church. Their home is pleasantly situated upon a good farm of one hundred and sixt3' acres which Mr. Schunk has developed from wild prairie land. Its fertile fields now yield him a good income, and its neat ajaperance attests the supervision of a careful manager. He is a good business man, sagacious and enterprising, and well deserves the success which has crowned his efforts. Pul)lic-spirited and progressive, he takes an active interest in all that pertains to the welfare of the communit)-. He has exercised his right of franchise in support of the Republican party since casting his first Presidential vote for R. B. Hayes, and keeps himself well in- formed on the questions of the day, both political and otherwise. For thirteen years, he has served as School Director and by his earnest efforts the cause of education in this community has been greatly advanced. Mr. Schunk h:is never had oc- casion to regret his removal to Ameri<;a. x~ =*^s* iTr^ AVID "W. GREEN, one of the most pros- perous farmers of Drummer Township, re- siding on section 25, was born in Ross County, Ohio, August 1, 1827, and is a son of David and Sarah (Skeid) Green. His father was a native of the Empire State, and all of his ancestors were of English extraction. The mother's parents were direct from Scotland, where her birth occurred. David Green and Sarah Skeid were married in Ross County, Ohio, in 1820, and there the father resided until his death, which occurred in June, 1865. His widow remained on the old homestead until 1870, when she came to this county, making her home with her son Thomas S. They were both adherents of the Associate Re- formed Church, but afterward united with the Methodist Church. In politics, ]\Ir. Green was first a Democrat but subsequentl}- became a supporter of Republican principles. Their familj' numbered eleven children: Elizabeth, now deceased; Henry, who died in the army; Thomas S., a farmer of PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 625 Idaho; David W., of this sketch; Mary, wife of Frederick Metzger, of Chillicothe, Ohio; William, Erastus and Sarah, all deceased; Adeline, wife of Thomas Marshall, who is living a retired life in Springfield, Ohio; Orlando, of Humboldt, Kan.; and Ellen, who has also been called to her final home. ■\Ve now take up the personal history of our sub- ject, who is so widely and favorably known throughout this county. lie ac(iuired a good com- mon-school education and remained with his par- ents until seventeen j'ears of age, when he became an apprentice in a cooper shop and followed that business for ten years. He then engaged in farm- ing in Henderson County, 111., where the succeed- ing six years of his life were passed, when, at the beginning of the Rebellion, he returned to the State of his nativity and made it his home until 1870. On the 2d of May, 1864, he entered his country's service as a member of Company C, One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Ohio Volunteers, and served one hundred days, receiving liis discharge on the 5lh of September following at Camp Den- nison. He participated in many skirmishes and did duty mostly as a scout and guard of wagon trains. On the loth of Jlay, 1851, Mr. Green was mar- ried, in Ross County, Ohio, to Miss Augusta Haynes, the ceremony being performed by the Rev. John Bouton, of the Methodist Church. The lady was born in Ross County, Ohio, January 4, 1832, and is a daughter of Andrew and Hannah (Bateham) Haynes, the former of German descent and the latter of English lineage. The father was a farmer and died in August, 1884. He wa» a member of the Methodist Church and, in politics, was first a Whig and then a Republican. His wife, a native of England, came to America at the age of four- teen j'cars. She still resides in Madison County, Ohio, at the age of eighty-three j-ears, with her two youngest sons, and she is also a member of the Methodist Church. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Haynes were born nine sons and three daughters, of whom six are yet living: Mrs. Green is the eldest; Julia, widow of Thomas Mendenhall, resides in Ross County, Ohio; Emory is married and follows farming in Madison Count}', Ohio; Edward is married and is also a farmer of that county; Martin and John reside in Madison County. With the exception of Martin, all the children are members of the IMethodist Church. Mrs. Green was educated in the common schools and attended one term in the grammar schools of Columbus, Ohio. Unto our subject and his wife have been born thirteen children: Herbert, an en- terprising young farmer of this township, was born in Ross County, Ohio, was educated in the common schools and remained with his parents until thirty- one years of age. He was married, February 29, 1883, in Chapin, 111., to Miss Amanda S. Fox, who was born in Morgan County, 111., February Hi, 1862, and is a daughter of Haughton and Maria (Beam) Fox. They are the parents of four chil- dren: Blanche (deceased), Grace, Lee and Ray- mond. Herl)ert and his wife are members of the Methodist Protestant Church, and in politics, he is a Prohibitionist. He owns three hundred and thirty- three acres of fine land, highly improved. Melvina is the wife of Jacob Carr, of Lawrence County, Mo.; Julia is now deceased; John is a minister of the Baptist Church, of Bluffton, Ind.; Victoria is the wife of Charles Baxter, a resident of Cowley County, Kan.; George and Josephine are both de- ceased; Lincoln is the next younger; he was one of Ford County's popular teachers and a young man of superior intelligence. He was educated in the common schools and for three years attended Adrian College, of Adrian, Mich. He would have completed the classical course, as he expected to devote his life to the ministry, but his health failed him. Emma is the wife of James Carpenter, of Dix Township; Martha E!. is now deceased; Wilber and Emractt are at home; Anna has also passed away. Mr. Green on coming to Illinois was in limited circumstances. He began with almost nothing, and his enteri)rise and industry have earned him a handsome farm of two hundred acres of well-im- proved land, upon which is a commodious and comfortable dwelling, whose hospitable doors are always open to their hosts of friends. Mr. and Mrs. Green are members of the Methodist Church of Gibson City, and, in politics, he is a stanch Repub- ; lican, doing all in his i)ower for the interest of his 626 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. party. He has held the office of Seliool Director for fifteen years and has done much in tlie interest of education in this community. He located in the county in 1870 and is one of its most highly respected citizens. tMv^^ t p >y fa f h, [|/^_^ ENRY BENSON, who is engaged in general farming on section 1, Mona Township, was born in England, May 2, 1839, and is one •^j of ninecliildren whose parents were Henry and Ann (Heap) Benson. Tlie fatlier was a calico printer by trade. He came to America in 1855, and first located in Kendall County, near Lisbon, 111., where lie operated a rented farm for three years. He tlien purchased land and made bis home in Kendall County' until 1867, wlien he sold out and removed to Kane County. He there spent his last days, liis death occurring May 11, 1877. His wife passed away March 12, 1865. Both were members of the New Jerusalem Church. In politics, Mr. Benson was a Ke])ublican. He was a self-educated and self-made man and was very successful in life, owing to his own industrious efforts. Of the family. Heap died in 1891 ; Alice is the wife of James AVoddington, who resides near Man- chester, England; William died in 1878; Henry is the next in order of birth; Ellen is the wife of T. B. Compton, a resident farmer of Iroipiois Count}-; Bridget is the wife of Edward llargraves; Ann is the wife of George Burton, a hardware merchant residing in Balavia, Kane County; Mary J. is the wife of James Miller, who makes his home in San Francisco, Cal., and Lizzie is the wife of S. G. Is- real, whose home is in Baltimore, Md. The subject of this sketch attended the common schools until twenty-eight years of age and accpiired a good business education which has well fitted him for the practical duties of life. With his par- ents he came to America and remained at home until twenty _years of age. In 1867, he came to Ford County, locating in Rogers Township, where he made his home for three years. On the expira- tion of that period, he removed to Mona Township, and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 1, where he has since made his home. The boundaries of his farm have been ex- tended from time to time and he now owns four hundred and eighty acres of valuable laud, all in Mona Township. He engages in general farming and stock-raising and is one of the substantial citizens of the community. His own labors iiave placed him in this position, for he began life empty- handed and liy his energy and enterprise has accu- mulated a handsome competence. Mr. Benson was married, on New Year's Eve of 1869, to Miss Hannah Kemp, daughter of Wright and Elizabeth Kemp. Seven children graced their union, as follows: Mary Alice, now the wife of David B. Keighin, a resident farmer of Mona Township; Horace, Henry W., Wilber J., Walter E., Arthur II., and Minnie E., who died in 1891. Mr. Benson exercises his right of franchise in support of the Republican party, and is a stanch advocate of its principles. He has served his Township .as School Trustee for about nine years and w!is also Township Supervisor. He belongs to the New Jerusalem Church, and is recognized as one of the prominent and infiuenlial citizens of the community. _^]_ ^-f^[ "^ ILLIAM P. LANDEL. Among the enter- prising rud wide-awake business men of Roberts should be mentioned the gentle- man whose name heads this sketch, who, undoubt- edly, is one of the 3'oungest merchants of Ford County, but this does not deter him from being a successful one. Our subject has the honor of being a native of Ford Count}'. He was born in Lyman Township, on the 29th of December, 1870, and is the eldest and only son in a family of four children born unto Jacob and Susan (Gype) Landel. His father is a farmer and William was reared to agricultural ])ursuits, and lessons of industry and economy were early instilled into his mind. His literary educa- tion w.as ac-^¥r<\ (Q>~- AMES KEMP, a leading business man of Kcmpton, was born in Kendall County, 111., on the 24tli of November, 1853, and is one of nine children. The parents, Wright and Elizabeth (Butterworth) Kemp, were both natives of England. Of tiie family, Sarah is now the wife of David Stockslegger, a farmer residing in In- diana; Hannah, the wife of Henry Benson, a prom- inent farmer of Mona Township; Mavy A. is the wife of John Clayton, who is engaged in agricul- tural pursuits in Rogers Township ; James is the next younger; John is a resident farmer of Livingston County; Frank is a barber of Kerapton; Wright E., a railroad employe, resides in Kankakee, 111., and two children died in infancy. The father of tiiis family came to America in 1845, on a sailing-vessel, which dropped anchor in the harbor of New Orleans after a voyage of seven weeks. He worked in the Crescent City as a gen- eral laborer for a time, and then came to Kendall County, 111., where he was joined by his family the following year. For two years he was employed as a farm hand, and then began farming for him- self. In 1864, he purchased land in Dudley Count}-, where he resided until 1866, when he sold his farm and came to Ford County. He here jjurchasedone hundred and sixty acres of land on sectioji 3 1 , Rogers Township, and in 1869, bought one hundred and twenty acres on section 6, where the town of Kemp- ton now stands. He laid out that town, which was named in his honor by the Illinois Central Rail- road, as he had given the land where the town was located. Mr. Kemp continued to reside in Ford County until 1885, when he removed to Kankakee, where he is now living a retired life. In politics, he is a Democrat, and is a member of the Episcopal Church, to which his wife also belonged. Her death occurred January 28, 18!)2, and her remains were interred in Kankakee Cemetery. James Kemp, whose name heads this record, was reared to manhood upon his father's farm, and ac- quired a good business education. On attaining his majority, he started out in life for himself, and followed agricultural pursuits until 1884. In that year he removed to Kcmpton and began the manu- facture of the Kemp hay press, an invention of his own, which was patented in 1886. His factor}' is located in that place, and his invention has proved to be an excellent one. He has also invented a riding harrow, but has never applied for a patent. In 1891, he opened a hotel and restaurant in Kem])- ton, and is still engaged in that business. On the 3rd of July, 1877, Mr. Kemp was united in marriage to Miss Carrie M., daughter of John and Myrtle (Bensley) Switzer. Three children have been born of their union, all daughters: Mary B., Adda E. and Myrtle E. In his political alHliations, Mr. Kemp is a Pro- hibitionist, and has served his township as Clerk for one year. With the Methodist Church beholds membership, and gives his support to all enter- prises and interests calculated to prove of public benefit. He is always found on the side of morality, temperance .and integrity, and is firm in his con- victions of right and wrong. ICHAEL OTTO, who is numbered among the leading citizens of Peach C)rchard Township, and is an enterprising farmer residing on section 13, was born on the 4th of April, 1841, at Lemnitz Czarnikow, Prussia. His parents, Michael and Rose L. (Zabel) Otto, were also natives of that country and were the parents of three children, two sons and one daugh- ter: Michael; Julia A., who became the wife of Andrew Zebert, a farmer, and died in 1874; and Gustav, who is engaged in agricultural pursuits in Putnam County, 111. The father died when our subject was but an infant and the mother de- parted this life in 1877. Michael Otto acquired his education in the common schools of his native land, which he at- tended until fourteen years of age, and then began PORTRAIT AND mOGRAPHTCAL RECORD. 639 to learn llie wagon-makers' trade, which he fol- lowed iu Prussia until 1801. That year wit- nessed his emigration to America. Believing bet- ter opportunities were afforded young men in this country than could be obtained elsewhere, he bade good-li^'e to his old home and sailed from Hamburg to New York City, whence he made his way to Chicago; then to I'eru, 111., from whicli city he walked to Magnolia, Putnam County, be- cause he had no money to paj' his railroad fare, and began working u|)on a farm by the month. To this labor he devoted his time and attention until IHI)'), in which year he was united in mar- riage with Miss Ida Funte, daughter of William and Tina Funte. Soon afterwards, Mr. Otto rented land, which he operated for three years, and on the expiration of that period, in 1868, he came to Ford County and made the purchase of one hun- dred and sixty acres on section 13, Peach Orchard Township. It has since been his home, and dur- ing the years that have passed he has transformed the wild tract into rich and fertile fields, highly cultivated and well improved. Nine children have been born of the union of Mr. and IMrs. Otto: Mary A., now the wife of Gott- lieb Drager, a resident farmer of Iroquois Cbunt^'; Ida El., wife of Henry C. Spellme>er, a hardware merchant residing in Melvin; Minnie L., wife of Alle Uml larger, an agriculturist of Wall Township; John M., Anna II. I., Gustav A. and Fred W. A.; George H. A., deceased; and Delia R. L. In addition to his home farm, Mr. Otto owns other property, and his landed possessions aggre- gate seven hundred and twenty acres, all located in Wall and Peach Orchard Townships and all improved. He is a truly self-made man, for he started out in life with only a pair of willing hands and a young man's Iniglit hope of the fu- ture, but he determined to win success and has reached the goal of his hopes. Among the wealthy citizens of the community he is numliered, and he is also one of the most i)rominent farmers of his township. With the (Terinan Lutheran Church he holds membership, and in his i)olitical affiliations is a Republican, having served his fellow-towns- men as Road Commissioner for three years, while for twelve years he has filled the office of School Director. The cause of education has found in him a warm friend, and he also gives his hearty support and co-operation to other interests calcu- lated to prove of public benefit, or enterprises tending to (iromote the general welfare. I OIIN W. GILKESON now owns and oper- ates eighty acres of land, on section 13 Wall Township, where he has made his home for about twelve years. A native of Illinois, he was born in Peoria Countj^ on the 11th of August, 1854, but was reared in Marshall County, and is the second child of William B. and Cecelia (Lytle) Gilkeson. His father was a native of Indiana, and in that State spent his early child- hood daj's. When he was only four years old, his father died and, with his mother, he afterward removed to Peoria County, 111., where he grew to manhood and acfjuired a common-school educa- tion. He began earning his own livelihood as a farm hand, working out by the month, and was in early life entirelj' dependent upon his own re- sources. In Peoria County, on attaining his ma- jority, he was joined in wedlock to Miss Lytle, a native of the Buckeye State, born I'>bruary 12, 1834. who during her childhood came with her parents to Illinois. After bis marriage, Mr. Gil- keson engaged in farming for himself for a few j-ears, and then removed to Marshall County, 111., where he operated rented land until March, 1867, when he came to E'ord County. He here pur- cUiased one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 15, Wall Township, and upon that farm made his home until about fcnu- years ago, when, on account of failing health, he went to Chicago in order to secure better medical attendance, and is still residing in that city. He began life empty- handed, but has met with good success in his busi- ness undertakings and now owns a valuable farm of one hundred and sixty acres. During the late war, William B. Gilkeson, the father of our subject, served for fourteen inonths as one of the boys in blue. He was taken pris- 640 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPinCAL RECORD. oner on the Tombigbee River by guerrillas, along witli thirteen or fourteen comrades, but all were given their freedom except him. He was placed on board a boat loaded with cotton. The rebels afterward landed the cotton, using it for breast- works. An old darky escai)ed from the boat while thej' were thus employed and carried word to the Union army, which at once advanced. When the blue coats appeared on the scene, the rebels fled in disorder and Mr. Gilkeson was recaptured. He takes considerable interest in political affairs and is a stalwart Rcpulilican. He holds membership with the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is also a member of the Grand Army of tlie Republic. lu the Gilkeson faniil3- were four sons and one daughter: Janet, who died at the age of seven years; John W., whose name heads this record; Thomas E., a resident of Battle Creek, Mich.; Fre- mont, a farmer of Wall Township; and Morris, who is living in Chicago with his parents. Our subject received the educational advan- tages of the common schools and remained upon his father's farm until he had attained his ma- jor! t3^ He was a young man of seventeen years when he came with the family to Ford County. He made his first purchase of land in the j'ear 1880, comprising eighty acres, upon which not a furrow had been turned or an improvement made. In the years which have since come and gone, he has placed the entire amount under a high state of cultivation. Good buildings have been erected, the fields are well tilled and the Gilkeson home is indeed a model farm. He also carries on stock-raising and feeds a carload of cattle each year. In 1881, Mr. Gilkeson was united in marriage to Miss Mary McClellan, a native of the Empire State, and a daughter of William and Catherine (Myers) McClellan, who were natives of the Emer- ald Isle. The father was a farmer and died in 1865, at the age of fortj--fivc years. His wife is still living in Loda, HI. In their family were two sons and six daughters: Mary, now deceased; Margaret, wife of William Houston, a resident of Iowa; Mrs. Gilkeson, wife of our subject; James, who is married and resides in Chicago; Eleanor, wife of Chalmers Fairly, a resident farmer of Jef- ferson County, Neb.; Martha, wife of Charles Houston, a farmer residing in Peoria Countj^ 111.; David, who is engaged in .agricultural pursuits in Washington; and Elizabeth, who makes her home in Iroquois County. Mrs. (iilkeson acquired an excellent education in the Loda schools and was a teacher of recog- nized ability. She taught for twenty-one terras in Iroquois County, and for four terms in Ford County. Our subject and his wife aie Jlethodists, belonging to the Victor Church. Two children grace their union: Myrtie and Charles Howard. Mr. Gilkeson is a Republican, having supported that party since he cast his first Presidential vote for Grant. He has served as a chUegate to its conventions and takes an active interest in its success. He has served as Commissioner of High- ways for three years, and was School Director for nine years. He is a reliable, straightforward busi- ness man, highly esteemed by all who know him, and his .acquaintances in this community are many. >>»fc*>w^ UGUSTUS TINDALL, a prominent farmer residing on section 7, Brenton Township, ffi has the honor of being a native of Illinois. He was born in Rock Island County, on the 22d of October, 1846, and is a son of William T. and Ann (Collier) Tiudall, the former a native of Maryland and the latter of Delaware. In 1834, they emigrated AVestward and settled in Rock Island County, 111. Is was then a wild and almost unimproved tract. Not a house marked the site of the present city of Rock Island, which then contained only a trovcrnment post. Mr. Tiudall began the development of a farm and was very successful in his business operations, becoming a well-to-do man. His wife died at the birth of our subject, after which he wedded Maria (Weiskeaver) Hamilton. His death occurred in 1883, at the age of seventy-tliree years. In politics, he was a Re- publican, and, in religious belief, was a Universal- ist. The family numbered eight children: AVilliam E., who now resides in Washington; C. H., who served in the California militia at the time of the t? auo.(j (Lti^tn. Cc^tpio-yx. \ (2^yXfi^ i PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 645 war and was an old resident of Ford Count}', died in Dakota; Mrs. Mary Moore is living in Montana; Berryman, who served in tlie One Hundred and Twenty-sixtli Illinois Infantry for three years, is now a resident of Kansas; Augustus is the next younger; Lemuel L. is a resident of Iowa; and Cordelia Alice is living in Kans.as. The Last two children were born of the second marriage. Our subject spent his childhood days upon his father's farm in Rock Island County, where he acquired a common-school education. Mo event of special importance occurred in his youth luitil eighteen years of age wlien, on the 2d of March, 1865, he enlisted in the country's service. When his brother started for the war, Augustus also wished to go, but .is ha was then only fifteen years of age, his father objected, telling him that he could go at eighteen, and so when he had arrived at that age, he at once enlisted, joining Company G, of the Forty-seventh Illinois Infantry. He was among the recruits, six companies of whom joined the regiment at Spanish Fort, ne.ar Mobile, Ala. He served through the sieges of Mobile and Spanish Fort, afterward went to Montgomery, Ala., and then to Selraa, thence to Randolph and Camden, and subsequent!}- returned to Selma, where he was engaged in guarding Government property. He went into winter quarters at Selma in the winter of 1865-66, and was there mustered out in February of the latter year, receiving his discharge in Springfield, III. When the war w.as over, Mr. Tindall returned home and for five years worked upon a farm, when, in 1871, he came to Ford County, locating on his present farm. It was then an unimproved tract of land, but now one hundred .and twenty acres, di- vided into rich and fertile fields, yield to him a golden tribute. He is the inventor of several improved farm appliances, including a cultivator wliich he has patented. He has considerable genius in this direction and very much enjoys working in mechanics. On the 1st of October, 1873, Mr. Tindall w.as joined in wedlock with Miss Mary A. P.atterson, a daughter of Henry and Anna J. I\atterson, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Ohio. They came to Illinois in 18C3, locating in Knox County, and are now residents of Piper City. Mrs. Tindall was l)orn in the Buckeye State, but spent her childhood daj's in Knox County. By her marriage she has become the mother of four children, two sons and two daughters: Arthur A., who is attending school in Davenport; .lerome L., Sadie E., and ]\Iyrtlc Jane. The famil>- holds a high position in social circles. Mr. Tindall is a member of the Grand Army Post of Piper City, and, in politics, has been a stal w.art Republican since he cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. Grant in 1868. He is a good business man and is highly esteemed for his sterling worth. _=]. "^ ^H^ n=' {^~ ■^AMES L. SAXTON, a le.ading merchfiut of Gibson Cit}', a dealer in dry-goods, carpets, boots and shoes, established business in that town on the 10th of April, 1875. He was born in the town of German, Chenango Count}-, N. Y., August 13, 1847, .and is a son of He'nryand Serenia (Brown) Saxton, both natives of M.assa- cluisetts. His father w.as born ISIaich 12, 1814, and his mother's birth occurred Deceiiilier 24, 1816. Botli are still living .and make their home in Cin- cinnatus, Cortland County, N. Y. When James L. was six years of .age, he removed with his parents to Cincinnatus, where he received an .academic education, after which he was engaged in teaching school until August, 1866, when he came to Illinois, and was employed .as a merchant's clerk in Henry, Marshall County, for three years. He was next engaged in the same capacity in Mackinaw, Tazewell County, for a year and a half, after which he became an equal partner of his brother William, of that place, and there continued mereh.andising until March, 1875, when he came to Gilison City, starting his present business. He was quite successful, and has now an annual trade amounting to $40,000 and upwards. He is the oldest dry-goods merchant in the city in continu- ous years of business, and, since the beginning, his trade h.as rapidly increased. On the 20th of June, 1871, Mi. Saxton married, in Henry, Marshall County, III., Miss Mary E. 646 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Whitney. The lady is a native of Fulton County, 111., and is a daughter of John and .lane Whitne3-; the former, a native of Massachusetts, is now de- ceased. Her mother, who is still living, was born in Indiana, and is a resident of (Jibson City. In politics, Mr. Saxton attiliates with the Repub- lican party, and he and his wife are consistent nieniliers of the First Presbyterian Church of Gib- son, in wliich ho holds the office of clerk. In Sunda^'-school work, Mr. Saxton takes an active interest and part, having been .Superintendent eight years; President of the Ford County Sunday- school Association one term; Treasurer of the same three 3'ears; President of the .Sixtli District Sunday- school Association two terms. In 1886, he removed to Owatonna, ISIinn., where for two years he carried on merchandising, and then returned to Gibson City and resumed business there. AVitli the exception of the two years spent in Owatonna, he has lieen engaged in business in Gibson City continuously since 1875. Mr. Saxton carries a full and complete stock of goods in his line, is always up with the times in styles, and is one of the most popular and successful merchants in Ford County, where he is widelj' and favorably- known. As a business man and citizen he stands deservedly high, and during his many years of business in Gibson has won the good opinion of the best people in the city and adjacent country, witli whom he has had business or social relations. 'THERTON W. THAYER, who owns and operates two hundred and forty acres of valualile land on section 24, Brenton Township, is a native of the old Bay State. He was born in South Rraintree, Norfolk County, on the 1st of November, 1838, and traces his an- cestry back to the day of the Pilgrim forefathers. His great-grandfather served in the War of 1812. His father, J. W. Thayer, was born and reared in Massachusetts, and yet makes his home in South Braintree at the age of seventy-seven years. He learned the trade of a boot and shoe maker and was a successful business man. He now lives re- tired. He was married in his native State to Su- san Wilde, who died in 1865, leaving six chil- dren, four sons and two daughters, namely: AVar- ren A., a well-known boot and shoe man, of Onurga, III., who died in that place; A. W., of this sketch; J. Q., who resides with his brother; Susan, Avis and Elmer are living in Massachusetts. A. W. Thayer spent his boyhood days under the parental roof and with his father learned the trade of shoe-making, which he followed for sixteen 3'ears. He acquired his early Education in the com- mon schools, and subsequently attended the Hollis Academy, of South Braintree, for four 3-ears, gradu- ating at the age of eighteen. He then resumed work at his trade, which he successfully followed until 1803, when he determined to try his fortune in Illinois and make a location in Lj'man Town- ship, Ford County. He there remained until 1865, when he returned to the East and again worked at his trade for some years. It was in 1871 that he once more sought a home in Ford Count3' and purciiased the farm on which he now resides. It is a two hundred and forty acre tract of valuable land which he opcr.ates in connection with his brother. He carries on general farming and is also engaged in stock-raising. Not an improvement was on the place at the time of his purchase. He has built a residence and barns and in the preseurt year has laid fourteen thousand tile. His labors have thus made his land veiy valuable. In this county on the 22d of March, 1864, Mr. Thayer was united in marriage with Miss Roxana Margaret Pierce, a native of Randolph, Mass., where her parents spent their entire lives. She was born July 18, 1842. Their union has been blessed with two children: Ilattie Susan, who was educated inTha3'er Academy and the Braintree High School, spending five years in study in the I^ast, success- full3- eng.aged in teaching for several terms. She is now the wife of Ilarr3' Ilanfoid, who is em- ployed in the railroad shops at Savannah, 111. Atherton Augustus now aids his father in the cul- tivation of the home farm. Mr. Tha3-er cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln, but since that time has been an advocate of Democratic ininciples. He has never PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 647 taken any very active part in political affairs but manifests a commendable interest in all tliat per- tains to the welfare of the community, and to the cause of education he is a warm friend. His life has been an uprightaiid honorable one and, by his sterling worth and integrity, he has won the con- fidence and high regard of those with whom he has been brought in contact. aALEB McKEEVER, wlio is practically liv- ing a retired life upon his farm on section ' 32, Drummer Townsiiip, was born near Brandywine,Del., on the 8th of May, 1825, and is a son of William and Sarah(Harlan) McKeever, both of whom were born in Chester County, Pa., where tlieirmarriage was celebrated in 18i 2. The father was of Scotch extraction. "When a lad of fifteen years, he was one day sent for a jug of mo- lasses, but he hid the jug and ran awa}- to sea and remained away from home for four years. On his return he looked for the jug of molasses but failed to find it. After his marriage, he removed with his family to Delaware County, and about 1830, returned to Chester Count}', Pa., where he resided until 1833, when he went to Urbana, Ohio, spend- ing one year at that place. He then located upon a farm east of Urbana, where the mother died in ] 842, at the age of forty-six years, her remains being interred in the cemetery near her home. The father remained in Clianipaign County until 1867, when he went to Iowa, residing with his daughter until 1870. He then came to Ford County and made his home with our subject until his death, which occurred November 23, 1874. He was a Democrat in politics, and his wife was a (.Quaker in religious belief. They reared a fainil}- of six children: .John and Isaac, who are now deceased; Margaret, wife of D. Osborn, of Oakland, 111.; Caleb, of this sketch; Mary, wife of William C. Ii\incuttcr, who is living a retired life in Iowa; and Rutli A., wife of .1. Spain, a carpenter of Iowa. Our subject acquired his education liy attend- ance at the district school for about thi'ce montlis in the year. On attaining his majority, he started out in life for himself and engaged in farm labor by the month until twenty-seven jears of age, when, on the 6th of November, 18.51, he was united in marriage with Sarah E. Thompson, who was born in Champaign County, Ohio, on the 12th of De- cember, 1826, and is a daughter of .John and Eliz- abeth (King) Thompson. Her father was born in Pennsylvania and was of Scotch-Irish extraction, and the mother was born in County Armagh, Ire- land, and came to America with her parents when a maiden of twelve summers. They were married in Newville, Cumberland County-, Pa., and unto them were born the following ciiildren: Clarissa, Nancy, .Tames K. and .Jane Mary, all deceased; .John K. and Thomas Iv., both of Urbana, Ohio; Samuel Alex, now deceased; and Sarah E., wife of our sub- ject. The parents resided in Pennsylvania until 1820, when they removed to Champaign Count}-, Ohio, and Mr. Thompson became a ver}' success- ful and wealthy citizen of that community. He served as Justice of the Peace for twenty-one years, and took (piite a prominent part in public affairs. In politics, he was a Whig and afterward a Republican. He and his wife were members of tlie Presbyterian Church. Mr. and Mrs. McKeever were married in Cham- paign Countv, Ohio, and began their domestic life upon a farm in Logan County, where they made their home for ten years, when they removed to Sangamon County, 111. Our subject there pur- chased two hundred and sixty acres of land, but in February, 186.5, he sold it and removed with his family to this county, where lie has since made his home. He now owns two hundred and twenty acres of valualile land, constituting one of the most beautiful and desiralile homes in this locality, and has also given forty acres to his son. He is an enter|)rising and capalile l)usiness man and the success of his life is all due to his own efforts. Unto INIr. and Mrs. McKeever were born six children: .Jolin T., a farmer of Drummer Town- ship; Alex, deceased; Sarah E., wife of Dr. Strauss; William, a resident farmer of Drummer Township; and Stephen and .James, both deceased. Mr. Mc- Keever cast his first I'residential vote for I^ewis Cass, of Michigan. lie has been a true-blue Re- publican since the civil rebellion, an inflexible ad- 648 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. hercnt of his party's principles. He has served as Township Supervisor and School Director for many years and is a charter member of the Masonic fraternity of Gibson. 111. His estimable wife holds membership with the Presbyterian Church. He is now living a retired life, having by liis labor in former years acquired a competence sufficient to keep him in his declining days. 4^ -^ THOMAS P. JEFFERY, one of the early set- jf^^^^ tiers of Ford County, who is engaged in ^^y the nursery and gardening business in Piper City, was born at Campbell Hill House, in the Parish of Cromton, Somersetsiiire, England, on the 3d of September, 1828, and is a sou of William .Jeffer\-, who resided upon tlie furin wliere his grand- father and gieat-grandfather had lived before iiim. He wedded Miss Mary Page, who died when our suljjeet was a small cliild, leaving a family- of five sous, all of whom are now deceased, with the ex- ception of our subject. William died in London; John in New Orleans; .lames in Ford County; and Charles, a silk merchant, died in London, about 1874. Mr. Jeffery was again married, his second union being with ills brother's widow, whose maiden name was Emily Knight. They had two children, both of whom reside in England. Tlie father died March 30, 1876, at the age of eighty-two vears. He took quite a prominent part in i)olitical affairs, supporting the liberal party. He held the office of Overseer of the Poor. Himself and family- were members of the Episcopal Cliurch. (Jur subject spent his early boyhood days upon his fatlier's farm and at the age of ten was sent to boarding-school at Clapham Common, East London. Through the courtesy of Lord Portman, he after- wards entered the Blue Coat School to prepare for naval service and, in 1844, received jiis com- mission as midshipman. In October of the same year, he went on board tlie "Vulture" and sailed with the outgoing East Indian Squadron on a three years' cruise under Admiral Lord Reaghle. On their return, he arrived at Portsmouth dock in August, 1847, and was given a ninety-days' fur- lough. He then sailed in the ''Wellington," a flag- ship, under Admiral Lord Raglan, and cruised for two years in the Indian Ocean, near Bomliay and Calcutta, when they were again ordered liome, liy way of Van Dieman's Land, the Australian Coast and the Island of Sicily. They heard of the wonderful gold discoveries in Australia, but tlie troops were not allowed to go ashore at any place where they stopped on the Australian coast, for fear they would run away. Tlie vessel arrived at Woolwich dock in July, 1850, and Mr. Jefifery gave up iiis commission and returned to the gold fields of Australia, arriving m Melliourne in May, 1851. He at once started for the mines and engaged in mining for about tiiree years with fair success. Two years of that time lie never saw a coin, every- thing being paid for in gold dust. He next spent two years in tlie freight business with his brother James and made considerable money in that way. In February, 1856, Mr. Jeffery left Australia for England, and soon afterward came to America, landing at Ouebec, whence he made his way to Chicago. Looking about him for a location, he finally settled on section 32, Brenton Township, on the 12th of July. 1856, where he secured a half- section of wild land. At that time tliere was only one house l)etween him and Onarga. He and his brollier James lived alone for four years and en- gaged in cattle-raising. In February, 1870, he rented his farm and came to Piper City. Since that time he has spent four years upon his farm and tlie remainder of the time has resided in the village, w4ieie he lias a pleasant home and is en- gaged in gardening and the nursery business, hav- ing about eight acres, of which over a third is witliin the corporate limits of Piper Citj-. On the IStli of November. 1861, in Ford County, Mr. Jeffery wedded Isabella J. Forbes, who was born in County Monaghan. Ireland, August 3, 1839, and is a daughter of John T. and Armanella (Robinson) Forbes. She was a maiden of ten summers wiien she came to America with her par- ents, who lived in South Boston. In 1856, they came to Lymau Township, Ford County. Four children have been born unto them: James William, who was born on the 11th of September, 1862, and .* >■ <^,ii~i*vtkt^-^ ^ (0. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 651 is now a butcher of Piper City; Alice Armanella, wiio was boru February 1, 1864, and is the wife of J. Rohbach, of Hrenton Township; Mary Louise, who was born September 25, 1866, and is tlie wife of Asa Burger, of Brenton Township; John Henry, born August 18, 1868, follows farming in Brenton Township. The children were all given good ed- ucational advantages, which fitted them for ther practical duties of life. Mr. Jcfferj', his wife and family, are alliiiembers of the Episcopal Church. He is an Odd Fellow, having been connected witli that fraternity for forty years. He was reinstated in the home lodge in England when lie revisited his native land in October, l«9(l. He cast his first Presiden- tial vote for Lincoln and has since attiliated with the Republican party when voting on questions of national importance, Imt at local elections supports the man whom he thinks best (jualified to fill the ottice. He has ever done his shai-e for the up- building and development of this community and is a valued citizen of the township. He is also a self-made man, who began life empty-handed, but by his own efforts has won a competence. JOSEPH BUROER, a reiiresentative farmer and extensive land owner of Brenton Town- ship, residing on section 2, is of German _ birth. He was born in Baden on the 31st of August, 1833, and is a son of F. A. Burger, who was born and reared in the village of Laurisheim, where he followed the occupation of farming. He served in the German army for thirteen j-ears and in the latter part of his life carried on a hotel. He married Anna Maria Kech, and after the birth of seven children emigrated with his family to America, sailing from Havre to New York, where he arrived after a voyage of thirty-three days. He located in New London County, Conn., where his death occurred in 1865, while his wife passed away in 1863. Both were members of the Catholic Church. Of the family: Jacob died in Connecticut; John died in Brenton Township; George is a resi- dent farmer of Iroquois County; Joseph is the next younger; Mrs. Elizabeth Phillips resides in this county; Mrs. Mar}' Haubach is living in Iroquois County; and Johanna is a resident of New London Count}', Conn. Our subject attended school in his native land between the ages of six and fourteen years and when seventeen years of age crossed the briny deep with his parents, and worked with his father in Connecticut for four years. He than began life for himself in Connecticut as a farmer and in 1866 re- moved to Fulton County, 111., where he spent three years. In 1868, he came to Ford County and pur- chased one hundred and twenty acres on section 2, Brenton Townsliip, and on the 1st of February, 1869, moved his family thereon. But little im- provement had been made. He planted each bush and shrub upon it and the buildings all stand as monuments to his thrift and enterprise. He now owns six hundred acres of valuable land, four hundred and forty of which are in one body. Mr. Burger brought witli him to the West his wife, a native of New London County, Conn. No- vember 12, 1854, he had wedded Mary Gore, a native of that count}-, born October 14, 1821, daughter of Asa A. and Ruth Gore, and unto them were born three children in Connecticut: Ruth A., who married Aug. ^'ogelbacher, a farmer C)f Bren- ton Township; one that died in infancy, and Asa E. The latter attended the Seminary of Onarga, married Mary Jeffrey, and is now engaged in farm- ing in Brenton Township. Mrs. Burger's father, Asa A. Gore, was a survivor of the Wyoming mas- sacre. His father and a number of relatives were killed b}' the Indians and he was carried to a place of safet}' 1)}' his mother on horseback. Mr. Burger cast his first Presidential vote for Buchanan in 1856. He then voted for Douglas, Lincoln, Seymour, Peler Cooper, Weaver and Cleveland. He has been independent, but has al- ways taken an active interest in political affairs. With the exception of two j'ears, he has continu- ously served in some township office since moving here and has been Supervisor of Brenton Townsliip since 1876. In 1884, he was a candidate for the Legislature on the (Greenback ticket. This county has a Republican majority of two to one, but he carried the county, although he lost in the other 652 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. county of the district. The large majority which he received In his own county Indicates his great personal popularity and the high regard in which he Is held. He has been prominently connected with the upbuilding and advancement of this com- munity, and was the first man to circulate a peti- tion for drainage In this region. No other enter- prise has done so much for the county as this, and Mr. Burger certainly deserves great credit for his earnest labors in securing the drainage. He is a self-made man and the handsome property of which he is now the possessor has been acquired through his own efforts. ^^ W. TALLMAN, Principal of the Sibley (I ^, schools, was born in iShelbyvUle, 111., Sep- ^^^ tember 1, 1855. His parents were engaged in the hotel business in that city. They were na- tives of Virginia, and removed to Illinois in 1836. In 1860, they located on their farm south of Shel- byville, and there our subject was introduced to the bus.y pursuits of an agricultural life. Being of a delicate constitution, he was the favored and petted one of the family. During the summer months, he worked in the fields and in the winter attended the district schools. He possessed a nat- ural aptitude for study and made the most of his privileges. At the ago of twenty, he was given permission to enter Shelby College. He had a room in one corner of the building, in which he cooked and did his own work, pajing the rental by sweep- ing and building fires In the college. Those were lonel}' days to the country boy, but he there laid the foundation for success. The next year a school was offered him just south of Shelby ville, and, after teaching for a number of yeai'S in the country schools, the principalshlp of the Moweaqua schools was offered him and he satisfactorily filled the po- sition, as his recommendation at the close of two years shows. He then went to Normal, 111., and spent two and a half years in study at the State University. In the meantime, I'rof. Tallman was united In marrl.age with Miss Susie C Mlddleton, of Tower Hill, 111. They reside in Slble^-, where thej- have many friends. Mr. Tallman is a Mason in good standing, and is also a member of the Modern Woodmen and the Independent Order of Good Templars. He is also a member of the Methodist Church and an active worker in the Sunday-school. In 1891, he was engaged to assist the County Su- perintendent In the Teachers' Institute, and his ability has been recognized by a renewal of the engagement for the present year. In the summer of 1888, Prof. Tallman removed with his family to Sibley, 111., having previously been tendered the principalshlp of its schools. Prof. Clinebell, his predecessor, had held the posi- tion for eight years, and it was with no small amount of trepidation that our subject assumed his place, for Mr. Clinebell was an educator pos- sessing a wide-spread reputation. He had made a specialtj- of the common branches, thus preparing the way for higher work. The new Principal be- gan on the foundation thus laid and has added branch after itranch to the course of stud^- until the scope of the work done in the Slble;*' school is almost on a par with that of Gibson and Paxton. He has remained here three j'ears, 3-et in that short time the intellectual status of the schools has been wonderfully broadened. A great impetus has been given to the school !:>}• the introduction of this new order of studies. Any pupil completing the course of stud}' in the Slblc}' schools is fitted to pass an excellent examination and well prepared for the practical affairs of life. The two assistants in the school are JMlss Lizzie McDonald, of Bloom- ingtou,and Miss Eftle Bicket, a daughter of W. A. Bicket, of Siblej-. A peculiar feature of the school Is what is called the S. S. Society, Introduced b}' Mr. Clinebell in 1882, an organization which meets on Fridaj' even- ings. Here parliamentary usages are learned and practiced, and the children are taught the manner of putting motions and of presiding over deliber- ative bodies. Prof. Tallman possesses a scientific turn of mind, as his work here shows. Being su))- ported by an intelligent and progressive School Board, addition after addition was made to the scientific apparatus, which Is now equal to. If it does PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPinCAL RECORD. 653 not excel, that of anj' other school in Ford County. A laboratory was also built, by partitioning off one corner of the larij:e room cf the biiildiny'. This has been supplied Mith all tlie necessary app.aratus and chemicals for demonstrating anything connec- ted with an ordinary IIiii:li School course. Among the many pieces of useful apparatus is a porte lu- minere, having an imported magic lantern attach- ment, also a microscopic attachment for projecting the microscope mountings upon the curtain b}' means of solar light. Anotliei instrument is a compound microscope, one of the finest instru- ments ever given to a school. It was presented bj- an eastern firm through the intercession of Mr. Clinebell, and out of respect to Hiram Sibley. Another fine piece of apparatus is the air-pumj), with its five different forms of receivers, by means of which nearly any desired experiment with gases can be made. Prof. Tallman lias inaugurated and is carrying out a work seldom ever attempted in our town schools. With the aid of the worthy Sciiool Board and his pupils, he has succeeded in fitting out a room in the building for a museum. After the necessarj' casing was completed, W. A. Bicket made an assortment of his large collection of minerals and presented a valuable collection to the museum. He is also constantlj' finding and adding some- thing new to his already magnificent gift and almost daily the collection is being enlarged by kind donors. The museum contains many valuable antiipie relics and the number is constantly grow- ing. The Professor is also a taxidermist and, liaving a great love for zoological research, has within the last year mounted over half a hundred specimens, among which are five different species of owls, in- cluding a large white Arctic owl. Tiiere are tliree different kinds of hawks, .an eagle, many speci- mens of song birds and water birds, and among the mammals are found the opossum, raccoon, fox, tree and ground squiirels, mink .ind shrew. The museum room is well carpeted and supplied with comfortable chairs and, as the Sibley Gazette has said, "It is a profitable place in which to spend an hour or two." The ornithological collection is increasing very rapidly, as high as six specimens having been added in one week and another large ease has already been reipiircd. The efHcient School Board, composed of W. A. Bicket, Swcn An- derson and Eli Harvey, who are doing all they can to further the interest of this valuable addition to the school. This museum is the pride of Sullivant Township, and well it ma\' be. The school grounds and buildings, built in the fall of 1882 at a cost of 15,000, are not to be overlooked. Upon the front of the school build- ing is a tower four stories high, surmounted by a m.aiisard roof, and containing an open bell-tower. The view of the landscape from this tower is prob- ably the finest in the count}-. As j-ou stand upon its summit, Sibley Lake, a most beautiful little sheet of water, seems to lie nestled close below you, although it is more than sixty rods distant. Sibley, with her many rows of shady stieets, looks more like a pleasure park tlian the busy little bustling town it is. The grounds surrounding the building are commodious and well shaded and cover nearlj' a whole block. ^5— .^^^_^^.sd^ ■!— '\flOIIN R. LEWIS, the efficient County Sur- veyor of Ford County and a leading and influential man of Piper City, was born on a farm in Herkimer County, N. Y., ,Iune 6, 1828. His grandfather, Reese Lewis, a native of AVales, was over six feet, seven inches high, and was drafted into tlio English service to form one of the regiment of such large men to go to the front and serve in the war against Napoleon, but Mr. Lewis, not wishing to enter the army, made his escape and came to America in 1815, accompanied by his son, Lewis L. He settled near Utica, N. Y., became a contractor on the Erie Canal and built many locks. His wife, who bore tiie maiden name of Ann Jones, with the rest of the children sailed for this country about 1820, and, after a voyage of eleven weeks, reached New York, joining her husband at his home near Utica. He was a suc- cessful business man and an influential citizen. He died near Utica about 1845. The father of our subject, David Lewis, was born 654 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. in Wales, and, when seventeen years of age, came til this country. He worked with his father for a time and also was employed in a starch factory near Utiea. He there met and married Miss Nancy A. Nichols, a native of Massachusetts, of English descent, who removed with her parents to New York in a ver^- early day. Her father was a Rev- olutionary soldier and his uncle was Gen. Nichols, of Revolutionarj- fame. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis were married in 1821, and began their domestic life in the timber region of New York, where the hus- liand bought land and developed a fine farm, upon which he made his home until his death, which oc- curred in 1876. He was a public-spirited and pro- gressive citizen, a member of the Congregational Church and of the Welsh Club. In lii.s business affairs he was very successful. In connection with farming, he burned lime and operated a stone- quarry. His wife passed away about eight years prior to the death of her husband. Their faniilj' numbered the following children: Mary A., now deceased; Dennis N., who resides on the old home farm; John R., of this sketch; Leonard J., who went with James, the 30ungestson, to California in 1851, but has not been heard from for the past four years; and Margaret E., who resides in Ulica, N. Y. The boyhood days of our subject were spent in attendance at the common schools during the win- ter season and in hard labor on the farm during the summer months, until seventeen years of age. In 1846, he went to Whitestown Seminary, and, after pursuing a three-years' course of study, en- gaged in teaching for three winter terms. In the spring of 1850, he came to Illinois, locating at Naperville, where he remained until the 4th of July. He then engaged in farm work until De- cember, when he began teaching school, and to the two pursuits devoted his energies until 1856, when he came to Ford County, at that time Vermilion, and made the fust settlement in Brenton Township. He purchased three hundred and twenty acres of land at $8 per acre, and engaged in farming for some time. In 1865, he located on what is now the site of Piper City, but it was all a tract of wild prairie at that time. The following year he began to sell laud for the Illinois Central Railroad, con- tinuing eighteen years. He has bought and sold probabl}' more land than any other man in the county. When he settled here there was not a house to be seen and one could ride thirty miles to the north without coming across a settlement. For two j'ears he Lad charge of the land sales on the Sullivant estate. In 1871, he removed to Chicago, returning to Ford Countv in 1878, and locating on a farm in Fella Township. In February, 1881, he came to Piper City, where he has since made his home. Mr. Lewis was married on the 3d of .June, 1852, near Naperville, to Miss Delia O. Johnson, a daugh- ter of Hiram and .Sarah A. Johnson, both of whom were natives of Vermont. The daughter was born in Rutland County, Vt., May 27, 1833, and came to Illinois in 1844. Her father made a claim of Government land, and followed farming for some time. He died in Aurora. Four children have been born to our subject and his wife: Sarah E., now the wife of Albert J. John- son, a hardware merchant of Hull, Iowa; Wallace David, who is engaged in the real-estate business in Chicago; Albert W., a civil and railroad engineer, employed b3' the Burlington & Missouri Railroad Company, residing in Plattsiuouth, Neb.; Adelaide B., who was educated at Normal, 111., and now has charge of the grammar department in the public schools of Piper City. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis have been members of the Presbyterian Church of Pii»er Cit3' since its organ- ization. Tlie3' are honored pioneers of the count}', who have witnessed its entire growth and have been prominent in its development and upbuilding. None are more worth}' of representation in this volume than they. Mr. Lewis has filled various public positions of trust. For eight years he has served as Surve^'or of Ford County, and was Dep- uty for some time previous. In 1859, he was elected Justice of the Peace and has held that office altogether for about a quarter of a century. He has served as Assessor, Clerk and Supervisor and the duties of these offices have ever been promptlj' and faithfully discharged. He was the first Postmaster of Piper City. He cast his first Presidential vote for Winfield Scott, and was a Whig until 1856, when he supported Gen. Fre- ct ^^^^'X^^\^ ^^/x^«-^t-'-"^Y -c^c^^t<.-xz^ c/fLt/~^^t^>^\^ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 659 mont and since that time he has voted for each Republican candidate. No man is more familiar with the early history and settlement of the county than our subject, who knows each foot of land within its borders. His friends througlrout the community are many and his popularity is only equaled by the high regard in which he is held. ■^1= 3E5" eAPT. WILLARD PROCTOR, an honored veteran of the late war, now residing in the village of Proctor, is a native of the Green Mountain State. The family is of English descent and the ancestry can be traced back to 1461. He was born iu Rutland County on tlic .5th of March, 1827, and is a son of Philip and Dorcas (Dimmick) Proctor. The former was born in the vicinitj' of Boston, Mass., and the latter in Connecticut. They were married in Sullivan, N. H., in September, 1809, and reared a familj^ of eight children, of whom Willard is the youngest. By occupation, Mr. Proc- tor was a farmer, and followed that business throughout his entire life. He and his wife were members of the Baptist Church, and were highly respected people. Their remains were laid to rest in the cemeterj' near their old home. The educational advantages which the Captain received were those afforded by the common schools. He remained under the parental roof until twenty j'ears of age, and, being the youngest of the family, the care of his parents devolved upon him, and he faithfully performed his duty. On the 10th of March, 1847, he was united in marriage, in Rutland County, Vt., with Miss Sarah A. Hewitt, who was born in that county, February 22, 1829, and is a daughter of Jonathan and Esther (Doolittle) Hewitt, natives of Connecticut, anil of English descent. Her grandfather, Amos Hewitt, was a Revolutionary hero. Her father was born in Vermont about 1800, and his last days were spent in his native State. By trade he was a cooper. His wife was born in Mt. Holl}', Vt., about 1802, and died at the age of sixty-four. In the family were three children: Chauncey E., who is married and follows farming in Sudburj, Vt.; Mrs. Proctor, 27 of this sketch; and Horace, who is married, and fol- lows farming, and also carries on a meat market in Shrewsbur}', Vt. Mrs. Proctor was reared upon a farm and edu- cated in the common schools and iu the academy of West Rutland, Vt., which she attended one term. Our subject and his wife began their do- mestic life upon the old homestead, where they re- mained until 1850, when Capt. Proctor began dealing in lumber, following that business for two years. He then went to Connecticut, where he en- gaged in the real-estate business until 1855. That year witnessed his emigration to Illinois. He lo- cated in La Salle County, where he was residing, when in August, 1862, he responded to the coun- try's call for troops, and joined the boys in blue of Company I, One Hundred and Fourth Infantry. He served for three years, and was discharged in June, 1865, having participated in many hard- fought l)attles. He entered the service as First Lieutenant, and, in recognition of his meritorious conduct, was promoted to the rank of Captain. His regiment was joined to the Fourteenth Army Corps, commanded by Gen. Thomas, and assigned to the Army of the Cumberland. At the battle of Ilartsville, Tenn., the brigade was taken prisoner and sent to Murfreesboro, but were parolled within a week. Capt. Proctor participated in the battles of Chickaniauga, Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge and Chattanooga, where Capt. Proctor was knocked down by a shell. He was also in the bat- tles of Pumpkin Vine, Kennesaw Mountain, Re- saca, Ringgold, the siege of Atlanta and the battle of Peach Tree Creek. He was present when the forces entered Savannah, Ga., and was there taken sick and confined to the hospital. He then re- ceived a furlough and returned home, not expecting to live, but recovered and rejoined his regiment. He was present at the review in Washington, the grandest military pageant on record. He received his discharge iu the Capitol City. When the war was over, Mr. Proctor returned to his home in La Salle County, where he resided until 1872, when he removed to Rutland, 111., there making his home until 1879, when became to Ford County, and purchased a farm on section 34, Drummer Township. To its cultivation and im- 660 POETRAIT AND BIOGEAPHICAL EECORD. provement he devoted his energies until 1890, when he sold his beautiful home and removed to the village of Proctor, where he is now living a retired life. His business career has been a prf)S- perous one and by his enterprising efforts he ac- quired a handsome competence, which now enables him to lay aside all care. In politics, he is a stanch Eepublican. Unto Captain and Mrs. Proctor have been born the following children: Sarah D., now the wife of V. G. Way, who is mentioned elsewhere in this work; P211en E., wife of M. Y. Ames, a farmer of Iowa; Willard E., whose sketch is given elsewhere in this volume; Etta, uow deceased; William S., a resident of Shelby County, 111.; Frank, a partner of his brother Willard; Florence E., deceased; and I. Belle, an accomplished young lady, at home. The family is one of prominence in this commu- nity, its meml)ers ranking high in social and busi- ness circles. W>ILLIA]M J. HUNT, who owns and operates one hundred and twenty acres of land on section 36, Peach Orchard Township, has the honor of being a native citizen of Illinois, his birth having occurred on the 30th of Januarj', 1841, in Marshall County. His father, Cornelius Hunt, was a native of New Jersey, and of German extraction. He came to Illinois about 1831, locat- ing near Magnolia, and the usual experiences of l)ioneer life were his. He served in the Black Hawk War, and was one of the honored early set- tlers. His wife bore the name of Ann Sidle, and was also of German descent. His death occurred in 1873, and his remains were laid to rest in Mag- nolia Cemetery, but Mrs. Hunt is still living, and makes her home in Melvin. Unto this worthy conple were born twelve chil- dren, as follows: Mary is the wife of Harry Craw- ford, of Gibson City; Caroline, deceased, was tlie wife of Edward Fazzie; Ann is also deceased; John S. is a retired farmer of Melvin; Enoch S. also lives in Melvin ; Sarah wedded Joshua Poll- ing, and lives in Ottawa, 111.; Ruth, the widow of Andrew Miller, makes her home in Melvin; Jane is the wife of James Dixon, of Saybrook, 111.; William J., of this sketch; Jacob was killed at Al- tuna, Tenn., during the late war; Elizabeth mar- ried George Dixon, and lives in Melvin; and Philip is a retired farmer of Paxton. The subject of this sketch was reared to man- hood among the wild scenes of pioneer life, and spent his boyhood days in tlie usual manner of farmer lads, attending the district schools of the neighborhood through the winter season until about nineteen years of age, while in the summer months he worked upon the farm. He remained with his parents until he had almost attained his majority, when the late war having broken out, he responded to the country's call for troops, and enlisted, in August, 1861, as a member of Company H, One Hundred and Fourth Illinois Infantry. He was mustered into service at Ottawa, and went south with his regiment. The first active engage- ment in which he participated was at HartsviUe, Tenn., where he was taken prisoner, but some time afterward was exchanged. The next battles in which he braved the rebel fire were Cbickamauga, Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge. He liad been sick for some time, and after the last-named battle, received an honorable discharge, and re- turned home in February, 1864. On partially recovering his health, Mr. Hunt rented land near Magnolia, Marshall County, and turned his attention lo agricultural pursuits. On the 20th of December, 1865, a marriage ceremony was performed which united his destiny with that of Miss ISIary U. Van Home, a daughter of Josei)h and Ann Van Home. Two children grace their union, a daughter .and son: Annie, wife of At- wood Wliite, a butcher residing in Roberts, III.; and Jacob Clyde, who is still at home. Mrs. Hunt is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. It was in 1872 that Mr. Hunt left his native county and came to Ford County, where he pur- chased one hundred and twenty acres of unim- proved land on section 36, Peach Orchard Town- ship, and began its development. He has there been engaged in general farming continuously since, and has been very successful in his opera- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 661 tions, being numbered among the well-to-do agri- culturists of this community. He has ever proved a viilued citizen, as he was a faitlifiil soldier, and liis sterling worth li.as won him nian3' friends. He exercises his right of franchise in support of tlie Republican party, and in his social relations is a member of both the Knights of Pythias lodge and the Grand Army of the Republic. ^\ ICHAEL COX (deceased) was a worthy son of the Emerald Isle. He was born in Munster. Ireland, September 1.5. 1823, and was the third of nine children born unto Michael and Bridget (Hunt) Cox, who were worthy citizens of Munster, Ireland. They were born, reared, married and spent their entire lives in one county. Mr. Cox followed the occupation of farm- ing and was accounted one of the most wealthy citizens of his native county. He and his wife were firm believers in the Roman Catholic religion and reared their children in that faith. They were widel3' known and their many excellencies of character won them the high regard of all. Michael Cox was reared under the parental roof and acquired his education in the common schools. On the 4th of March, 1848, he was united in mar- riage with Miss Margaret "Walsh, who was born in Munster, Ireland, November 11, 1828, and is a daughter of William and Mary (Mulvahill) Walsh. Her parents were also natives of Ireland and were farming people who owned consideral)le property'. They were members of the Catholic Church, and reared a family of nine children. Our subject and his wife liegan their domestic life ill the Old Country, and three years later, in April, 1851, bade good-bye to the land of their birth and sailed from Limerick to America. After a pleasant voyage of twenty- three days, they landed in Nevv York and thence went to Albany, where they remained for about four montiis, while Mr. Cox engaged in general labor in order to se- cvu'e funds for their further journey, .as his money had been exhausted. They afterward made their way to La Porte Count}', Ind., where they resided for a year and then removed to La Salle, 111., where the succeeding yearof their lives was passed. They next became residents of Bloomington, 111., and in that localit.y Mr. Cox engaged in farming for twenty years. In 187.5, lie came to Ford County and located upon a farm which is yet the home of his widow. It is a model farm, highly improved and cultivated, and fields a good income to its owner. Mr. and Mrs. Cox were consistent members of the Roman Catholic Church, and iu that faith our subject died, .Januar.y 21, 1888. His remains were interred in Bloomington Cemetery, where a mon- ument marks his last resting place. He was a Democrat in political sentiment and a worthy citi- zen, upright and honorable in all things and held in high regard for his many excellencies of char- acter. The Cox family numbered nine children, the eldest of whom is MaryG.; the second is Michael, who was born in INIunster, County of Kerry, Ireland, on the 21st of May, 1850, and was only a year old when brought to this country, acquired his educa- tion in the public schools and remained with his parents until his marri.age. On the 12th of Janu- ary, 1879, he wedded Ellen Crummy, who was born in Kentucky and is a daughter of Berney and Mary Crumm}-, who were of Irish extraction. They have five children: Mary E.,aged eleven; Maggie, aged nine; Lizzie, seven years old; Sadie, a little maiden of five; and James, the two year-old baby. The parents are both members of the Catholic Church. In politics, Michael is a Democrat. He owns five hundred and sixt^' acres of well-improved land in this county and three hundred and twenty acres in Minnesota. William, the next younger, was born in La Fay- ette, Ind., November 11, 1852, attended the com- mon schools and began life for himself at the age of eighteen years. In 1874, he made his first pur- chase of land of two hundred acres, which now constitutes the old home. He operated it until 1880 when he purchased his present beautiful farm of one hundred and si.xtj^ acres, a most de- sirable place, with a pleasant residence, good out- buildings and all the improvements of a model farm. He was married, September 5, 1881, to Liz- 662 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. zie Graden, who was born in Heyworth, 111., in 1859, and is a daughter of John and Mar}- (Jones) Graden, who were of Irish descent. They have five children: James, William, John, Nellie and Maggie. The father is a Democrat and a worthy citizen who ever has the interest of this county at heart. He and his wife are members of the Cath- olic Churcli. John, the fourth child, is a farmer and stock- raiser of Minnesota; James is a real-estate agent of Minnesota; Margaret is one of the most successful school teachers in this county; Thomas is a graduate of Mt. St. Mary's School of Maryland, was ordained a priest in Niagara and is now tlie honored assist- ant of the Rev. Father Cashman, of St. Jarlath's Parisli, of West Chicago; Robert, who was born in McLean County, 111., October 10, 1862, and also acquired a common-school education, is one of Ford County's most successful and enterprising farmers. In connection with Joseph, who was born February 22, 1865, and is tlie youngest of the fam- ily, he owns and operates three hundred and forty acres of valuable land, which pays a golden tribute to their care and cultivation. Both are members of the Catholic Church and are sturdy workers for the Democratic party. By their many friends and neighbors they are honored for their many excellencies of character. s ' "="=] <■■ "r "> t=i '^ e> 'OSIAH UMBARGER, who resides on sec. tion 26, Peach Orchard Township, where lie follows general farming, was born in Dau- phin County, Pa., January 15, 1833, and is a son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Bear) Umbarger, both of whom were natives of Pennsylvania and were of German extraction. His first wife was Miss Cassel, by whom he had three children: Cor- nelius, who is engaged in agricultural pursuits in Putnam County; Catherine (deceased) was the wife of David Patton, of Livingston Count}', 111., and John, deceased. The father was again married, in Pennsylvania, this time to Miss Bear. In early days, the father came with his family to Illinois, about 1844, locating in Putnam County, where he spentone year, when he removed to Bureau County. Some fifteen years later, however, he returned to Putnam County, where he resided until bis death, earring on general farming. He was called to his final rest in August, 1877, and his wife passed away in January, 1876. They were both members of the Methodist Churcli. He was a Repulilican. In their family were ten children, five sons and five daugh- ters, of whom our suliject is the second in or.der of birth. His boyhood days were spent in the usual manner of farmer lads and he acquired his educa- tion in the common schools, which he attended until about seventeen years of age. He remained with his parents until after he had attained his majority, wlien he began farming for himself. He first worked in a brick-yard, where lie was employed for three or four years, and then commenced to work as a farmhand by the month, being thus employed until his marriage, which was celebrated November 17, 1858, the lady of his choice being Miss Jane Allen, daughter of James and Rosana Allen. After his marriage. Mr. Umbarger began farming on rented land. In 1862, he came West, locating in La Salle County, where he resided for four years. Removing to Ford County in 1866, he settled upon the farm which has since been his home. He first purchased eighty acres of unimproved railroad land on section 26, Peach Orchard Township, and afterward bought another eighty-acre tract, and since has added eighty acres more, making a fine farm of two hundred and forty acres. He is an enterprising farmer and as the result of his indus- trious efforts has won success. He well deserves his prosperity, for his life has been a busy and use- ful one. Five children have been born unto Mr. and Mrs. Umbarger, namely: Ada, wife of Thomas Huxtable, a farmer residing near Sibley, Ford County; Hat- tie, at home; Almond, a resident farmer of Wall Township; and Jesse and Jennie, twins. The lat- ter is the wife of William Short, a resident of Dix Township, and Jesse farms at home. In his political affiliations, Mr. Umbarger is a Republican, having supported that party since he attained his majority. He has held the offices of Road Commissioner, School Trustee and School Director. The cause of education finds in him a J ^mim^ ^ ^<^/>/^/^/hi r///^^ POKTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 665 warm friend, and he takes an active interest in all that pertains to the welfare and upbuilding of the town and county. Unancially, he has made a grand success; commencing witli nothing, he has made all he has by his own efforts, ably assisted by his wife. \T| OHN WAGNER, who is numbered among the pioneer settlers of Brentoii Township, has made his home for almost a quarter of ' a century upon his present farm, on section 34. lie was born in Woodford Count\-, 111., Sep- tember 5, 1839. His father, Michael Wagner, was born in Bavaria, Germany, and when a young man came to America. He lierded sheep in the old country and, on coming to the United States, made a location near Cincinnati, Ohio. He after- ward removed to Illinois, becoming one of the early settlers of Woodford County, and was there united in marriage to Anna Mathews, a native of Germany. His death occurred in that county at the age of eighty years, but his widow is still liv- ing on the old homestead. He applied himself closely to his business and became n well to-do cit- izen. In politics, he was a Republican and in relig- ious belief was a Lutheran, his wife holding mem- bership with the same church. The family of this worthy couple numbered seven children: .John and Michael twins, the latter a farmer of Woodford County; Jacob, who is en- gaged in agricultural pursuits in Brenton Town- ship; Dan and Henry, who reside on the old home farm; Kate, the wife of Michael Barth, a resident of Minonk, 111.; and Mary, wife of Lewis Schunk, wlio is living in Brenton Township. Our subject was reared amid the wild scenes of frontier life in his native county and was early in- ured to the arduous labor of developing a new farm. There were no English schools in the neigh- borhood at that time and in the winter season, un- til fourteen years of age, he attended the German school, which was held in a log house furnished in the primitive manner of the time. On attaining his majority, he started out in life for himself and for two years was employed as a farm hand near El Paso, when circumstances arose which caused him to abandon that work. The war had broken out and in July, 1862, Mr. Wagner joined Com- pany D, One Hundred and Eighth Illinois Infantry, assembled in Peoria. The troops were sent to Cincinnati and on through Kentucky to Memphis, Tenn., and participated in the siege of Vicksburg. Mr. Wagner aided in making the canal which let the boats through and was present at the surrender of the city on the 4th of July. He participated in the battles of Little Rock, Ft. Gibson, Champion Hill, Memphis and Corinth, the siege of Mobile and of Spanish Fort. On the close of the war, he was discharged in A'icksburg, in August, 186.5, and was mustered out at Chicago after three years of faithful service. Mr. Wagner then returned to his home in Woodford County, and remained with his father until his marri.ige. On the 17th of February, 1868, he wedded Miss Rachel, daughter of Christian and Sophia (Pepper) Meinholt, who were natives of Germany. The^' came to America in 1841 and spent the remainder of their lives in Woodford Count}', where their daughter was born and reared. Mr. and Mrs. Wagner have a family of seven children: Anna M., who was educated in the pub- lic schools and at Onarga Seminary, is a teacher of recognized ability; Lewis, Charles, AVilliam, Au- gust, Eddie and Albert are still under the parental roof. After his marriage, Mr. Wagner came with his young wife to Ford County, and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of wild land, which he has transformed into the fine farm upon which he makes his home. He has erected good buildings, planted trees and made other improvements which add both to the value and attractive appearance of the pl.ace and in connection with general farming, he successfully carries on stock-raising. Himself and wife are both members of the Lutheran Church and are hospitable, kindly people, well and favor- ably known in this community. Socially, Mr. Wagner is a member of the Grand Army Post of Piper City aud, in politics, has been a warm advo- cate of the Republican party since he cast his first 666 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln. Vie started out in life with only a young man's bright hope of the future and a determination to succeed. That resolve he has fully carried out, for he is now considered one of the prosperous farmers of this community. ■So~ Stuart. NDREW STUART, a retired farmer resid- ing in Kempton, was born on the 20th of September, 1829, in Canada East, and is a son of David and Margery A. (Fife) His parents were both natives of Scotland. They had a family of fourteen children: Daniel, now deceased; Mary; Isabel, deceased; Elizabeth; Margaret, who has also passed away; Ann; Cath- erine, now deceased; An(h'ew, of this sketch; David, now deceased; Charles; Elijah, .James and Agnes, all of whom have departed this life; Daniel; and Mary J., deceased. The father of this family died in 1845, and tiie mother passed awaj' in 1871. Andrew Stuart was born and reared upon his father's farm. He was early inured to the hard labors of farm life, but his training in school was much more limited. Indeed, he is self-educated, for he never attended school after eight years of age. In 1844, he came to Illinois with his parents, locating in Grundy County, where they resided for one year, after which they removed to Living- ston County, where the father and mother spent their last days. Our subject remained with his mother on the old homestead until twenty-four years of age. He was then married, in 1853, to Miss Myra Leonard, daughter of Edmund D. and I^liza- beth H. Leonard. The previous fall he had pur- chased eight3'-eight acres of land, upon which the young couple began their domestic life, and Mr. Stuart devoted his energies to its cultivation until the breaking out of the late war. On the call for troops to put down the Rebellion, he enlisted as a private in Company G, One Hun- dred and Twenty-ninth Illinois Infantry, and the first important engagement in which he participa- ted was at Ringgold. He afterward took part in the battles of Buzzards' Roost, Kenesaw Mountain, Peach Tree Creek, Atlanta, and was with Sherman on his celebrated march to the sea. When the war was over, he was honorably discharged in June, 1865. He had proved himself a faithful and loy.al defender of his country, and of his army record may well be proud. When the war was over, Mr. Stuart returned to his home in Grundy County, 111., whither his wife had removed during his absence, living with his brother-in-law. He again turned his attention to farming, and resided in that county until 1870, when he removed to Ford County. Locating in Rogers Township, he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land on section .32, where he lesided until 1888. He was a practical and progressive farmer, and by his good management and persever- ance, acquired a handsome competence. He has now laid ;iside all business cares, and is resting in the enjoyment of the fruits of his former toil. In politics, he is a stalwart Republican, and belongs to the Grand Arir.y Post, and to the Methodist Church. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Stuart were born seven children: Alice, who died November 13, 1882; Frank, Maggie E., Daniel; Edmund, who died in infancy; and Anna IMaiia. ^i* THOMAS ROWAN, deceased, was born in '/('M\ County Mayo, Ireland, on the 22d of De- ^>i^/ cember, 1827. His early boyhood da3'S were spent on the Emerald Isle, but when a young man he determined to try his fortune in America and crossed the broad Atlantic to New York City. He made his first location in Albany, N. Y., where he remained for four months, removing thenee to Montgomery County, N. Y., where he engaged in farming for some time. It was in that county, on the 19th of March, 1850, that Mr. Rowan was united in marriage with Miss Bridget Brown, who was born in Ireland on the 5th of April, 1825, and is a daughter of .John and Mary (Ma3-ea) Brown. Her mother died when she was only two and a half years of age. She came to America with a smuggler, who was a cousin of hers, and landed in New York in 1840, after hav- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 667 ing spent three months upon the bosom of the At- lantic. However, they had a pleasant voyage and the passengers on board numbered three hundred and seven. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Rowan were born ten children, six of whom are yet living: Mary, wife of B. C. Bumbarger, who is engaged in farm- ing in Iowa; Annie, wife of G. B. Dungan, of Okla- homa; Johnnie, Maggie and .Jane, all deceased; L^'dia, who resides with her mother; Millie, wife of William West, a farmer of Adrian, Minn.; Michael, who is engaged in agricultural pursuits in Drummer Township; Charles, a farmer of Williams, Iowa; and one who died in infancy. After their marriage, Mr. Rowan resided in Montgomery County, N. Y., where he engaged in farming until 1859, when they emigrated Westward to Dodge Count}', Wis., where they remained until 1867. The succeeding three years of their lives were passed in Saybrook, 111., after which they re- moved to the farm which is now the home of the widow. It comprises eighty acres of land, and the well-tilled fields j-ield a golden tribute to the owner. The death of Mr. Rowan occurred on the old homestead on the 4th of June, 1886, from a cancer, and he was laid to rest in Gibson Cemeterj', where a monument was erected to his memory. In politics, he was a supporter of Republican princi- ples, and was a member of the Roman Catholic Church. He led a busy and useful life and was well and favorably known throughout this com- munity as a man of sterling worth and strict in- tegrity. He was public-spirited and progressive and took a deep interest in all that pertained to the welfare of the communitj- and the upbuilding of the county. His loss was mourned by many friends as well as by his immediate family. OBERT BARBER CHAMBERS, one of the C most prominent merchants of Roberts and one of its leading and inlluential citizens, ^'^ was born in Union County, Pa., August 10, 1852, and is a son of Robert and Matilda (Smith) Chambers. The father was born in Union County, Pa., February 1, 181 1, and was a tanner by trade but afterward engaged in fanning and stock-raising. He commenced life for himself at the age of twenty and was married, October 20, 1835, to Miss Smith, who was born Januar}' 15, 1815. He won success as a tanner and his career as a farmer was equall}' prosperous. He made two different trips to the West and saw Illinois when this State was in its primitive condition. In politics, he w.as an old-line Whig and cast his flist Presidential vote for John Quincy Adams, but afterward became a stanch Republican, though never an ofHce-seeker. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and his wife of the German Reformed Church. His death occurred October 15, 1864, and his wife died August 2, 1863. Both were interred in Union County, where a beautiful monument marks their last resting place. In the Chambers family were nine children, seven of whom are yet living: M. B., who married Miss Annie Sheckler and resides in Prairie Cit}', 111.; Katie E., who is living in Mifflinburg, Pa.; James, deceased; J. M., who married Miss Lizzie Cole, and is a farmer of Prairie City; W. J., who married Miss Lizzie Bogenreif, and is a farmer of Avon, 111.; Rhoda, who died at the age of twelve years; C. M., who married Miss Alice Stroubel, and is a farmer of Edwards County, Kan.; Robert, of this sketch, and Sarah A., wife of G. G. AVyland, a skillful machinist of Williamsport, Pa. The boyhood days of our subject were spent in his native county, and his early educntion was supplemented by a commercial course in New Berlin Seminary. He afterward engaged in clerk- ing. In the fall of 1872, he determined to try his fortune in the West and went to Piper City, 111., where he began clerking for C. Montelius & Son, general merchants and grain dealers. When that firm sold out, he came to Roberts, in 1873, and clerked with J. A. Montelius. In 1875, he pur- chased a lot, upon which he erected a frame build- ing, two stories in height, nnd put in a general stock of merchandise worth $3,000. Robert Cham- bers is inseparably connected with the business history of this locality. He owns a half interest in the Roberts' Creamery, an enterprise of much importance in this community. They ship the en- tire products of the creamery to New Orleans, 668 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. where there is a good demand. They have lately placed a new boiler of sixteen-liorse power, at an expense of 1400. They employ three men, at an expense of $125 per month, and have four teams in use in gathering cream from the surrounding farms. They feed about four car loads of hogs annually from the products of the creamery, and this adds not a little to their income. Mr. Chambers was married, August 11, 1875, to Miss Anna E. Thompson, who was the sixth child in the family- of the Rev. J. L. and Harriet (Marsh) Thompson. Her father was born May 25, 1811, and died October 12, 1872. He was graduated from Hamilton College, N. Y., in 1831, and on the 6th of November, 1836, wedded Miss Marsh, who was born December 10, 1821, and died April 23, 1870. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Chambers have been born four sons: Willie, who died in infancy; Elmer and Louis Gill, who are attending school, and Ora T., who died at the age of one year, ten months and twenty-one days. In politics, Mr. Cliambers is a stalward Repub- lican and cast his first Presidential vote for R B. Hayes. The cause of education finds in him a warm friend, and he has served as a member of the School Board nine years. He is now President of the Board, ever using his influence iu securing efficient teachers and thereby good schools. The school building, erected at a cost of 82,700, was built since he has been on the Board. He also served as Alderman two years and was Treasurer of Roberts. He and his wife are members of the Congregational Church and were largely instru- mental in securing their present excellent house of . worship. Close application and enterprise have been im- portant factors in Mr. Chambers' success. He is now enjoying a flourishing trade as a merchant, carrying a full and complete stock of staple and fancy groceries, dry-goods, clothing, hats and caps, boots and shoes, etc. His stock is valued at |!10,- 000, and his annual sales amount to 135,000. He also owns eighty acres of highly cultivated land. His residence, standing on Main Street, is one of the most commodious in town and is the abode of hospitality. He is an affable, courteous gentle- man, fair and upright in all business transactions, and has the high regard of all with whom he has been brought in contact. This work would be in- complete without the sketch of Mr. Chambers and we feel assured that it will be received with interest by many of our readers. "jfjOHN W. SMITH, who owns and operates ninety-seven acres of valuable land on sec- tion 15, Drummer Township, is a representa- ^_^ five farmer of the community and one widely and favorably known in Ford County. He is a native of Pennsylvania, his birth having oc- curred on the 16th of October, 1849. His parents were William C. and Mary J. (Everil) Smith, the former of German and the latter of Irish descent. They were married in Perry County, in 1837, and reared a family of five children: Sarah J.; John W., of this sketch; Anna E., wife of N. Hinshaw, a farmer of McLean County, 111.; Samuel E., who is also living in McLean County; and Wilhelmina, now dece.ased. The parents now reside in Danvers Township, McLean County, where Mr. Smith fol- lows the carpenter's trade. Himself and wife are members of the Methodist Church and are highly respected i>eople. He attlliates with the Republican party, and during the late war served for three j'ears as a member of the Third Ohio Cavalry, prov- ing a faitliful soldier. John W. Smith, whose name heads this record, was a young lad when his parents removed to McLean County, 111. In the common schools of the community he acquired his education and re- mained with his parents until twenty-three years of age, .assisting in the labors of the farm. (Jn the 29th of February, 1872, he was united in mar- riage with Miss Jennie Hinshaw, who died on the 11th of December of the same year, leaving an in- fant daughter, Jennie, who is now the wife of Wil- bur D. Knick, a resident of Danvers, 111. Mr. Smith was again married, December 19, 1881, his second union being with Miss Caroline F. Williams, a daughter of Joseph and .Tane (McCracken) Will- iams, natives of the Keystone State, and of ling- i. f-^ Jk. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 673 lish and Irish lineagre, respectively. Mrs. Smith was born in Pennsylvania in 1846. She acquired her education at the State Xonnal in Edinboro, Pa., and came to Illinois in the fall of 1872, and that winter taught the first school ever taught in Gib- son City. In his political affiliations, Mr. Smith is a Repub- lican, having supported that party since he at- tained his majority, but has never been an office- seeker, preferring to devote his entire time and attention to his business interests. As before stated, he owns a good farm of ninety-seven acres, which lias been mostly improved b}' his own hard labor. Its neat appearance and the many good improvements found tliercon indicate his thrift and enterprise. _^=^) M>^-<^ w "jf AMES CRAWFORD, who follows general farming on section 21, Peach Orchard Township, is one of the large land-owners of tiie county, over six hundred acres yielding to him a golden tribute for the care and cultivation bestowed upon it. He has made his home in Ford Counly since 1875, and in these years he has formed a wide acquaintance, so tliat this record of his life will prove of interest to many of our readers. A native of the Emerald Isle, he was born in County Clare, on the 1 2tii of April, 1838, and is a son of Michael and Mar- garet (Flaherty) Crawford. In the family were eight children, as follows: Bridget, now deceased; John, a farmer residing in Vermilion Count3'; Mary, also deceased; James, whose name heads this record; Martin, a farmer living near Earl- ville, La Salle County; Patrick, Mary and Michael, all of whom have departed this life. The father of this family died in 1817, and soon afterward Mrs. Crawford, accompanied by her family, emigrated to tlu' New World, locating in Upper Canada, where she made her home for about four years. She then removed to Niagara County, N. Y., settling near Lewiston, where she resided until 1857, which j-ear witnessed her ar- rival in La Salle County, 111. Our subject was a lad of about eleven years when they left their na- tive land, and in the various removals he accom- panied his mother. After locating in La Salle County, he began life for himself, working on a farm by the month, and the next spring, in com- pany with his brothers, John and Martin, rented a farm. Thejr continued to operate rented land until 1863, when Mr. Crawford purchased a tract of eight}' acres in La Salle County, and there made his home until 1875. On the 16th of September, 1866, our subject was united in the holy bonds of matrimony to Miss Mary E., daughter of Patrick and Mar}' Roark, both of whom were natives of County Longford, Ireland. Mrs. Roark came to the United States in 1833, and her husband the following year. They were married in Brooklyn, N. Y. In 1856, the}' came to La Salle County, III., where they died, aged respectively eighty-four and seventy-six years. Mrs. Crawford was born June 6, 1841, on Long Island. Mi', and Mrs. Crawford became the parents of eleven children: John, Mary E., Thomas J., James P., Margaret J., Catherine A., Nora (deceased). Frank W., Lucy, Gertrude and Walter M. On the 12th of February, 1865, Mr. Crawford responded to the call of his adopted country for troops, and became a member of Company L, Seventh Illinois Cavalry, but on account of ill- health did not engage in active service, being as- signed to hospital duty. When the war was over, and his services were no longer needed, he was honorably discharged, October 4, 1865, and re- turned to his home. In politics, he is a Republican, having been a stanch advocate of the party prin- ciples since its organization. His first Presidential vote was cast for Abraham Lincoln. In religious belief, the family are Catholics, holding member- ship with the church in Melvin. As before stated, he made his home in La Salle County until 1875, in which year he came to Ford County and pur- chased one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 21, Peach Orchard Township, where he yet makes his home, although the boundaries of his farm have been much extended since that time. He has a pleasant home and good buildings upon his farm, his fields are well tilled and he is an 674 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. enterprising and progressive agriculturist. His lande'l possessions now aggregate six liundred acres — a valuable property — all of which, save eighty acres in Gernianville Township, Livingston County, is situated in Peach Orchard Township. Mr. Crawford is a man of determination and in- dustry, and whatever he undertakes he geuerally carries forward to a successful completion. He has been upright and honorable in all his dealings, and the prosperity which has crowned his efforts and made him a wealtiiy citizen is certainly* justly deserved. ^1 H; B 3M^ j^.KOF. D. GUYN FOREMAN, Principal of the Melvin schools, has held that position for the past nine years, winning commen- dation from all concerned, in respect to his able management. A native of Ohio, he was born in Dover, Union County, September 28, 1856, and is a sou of Samuel S. and Mar^v (Diltz) Foreman. His father was born near AVheeling, W. Va., July 7, 1822, and removed with his par- ents to Union County, Ohio, when four ^-ears of age, there residing until after iiis marriage. He learned the mason's trade, at which he worked a few years in Union County, and then removed with his family to Delaware County, where he re- mained until 1865, when he came to Illinois. He and his wife are still residing in Livingston County, where they first settled. Mr. Foreman was reared under the auspices of the United Breth- ren Church and his wife is a member of the Meth- odist Church. Our subject remained under the parental roof until after the removal of the family to Living- ston County, 111., in 1865. He was educated at Grand Prairie Seminary, of Onarga, pursuing a Latin and scientific course, and was graduated in the Class of '82. Prof. Foreman enjoys the dis- tinction of being a self-educated man. By work- ing on the farm and carefully husbanding his earnings, he procured the means to carry him through the first two years of his college course. De- siring to complete the work begun,and not possessed of the requisite funds, he served during the remain- ing two \'ears as janitor, carrying coal, building fires and performing various other duties, while most of the other students were taking recreation. This training in manual labor he considers more bene- ficial as giving vigor, health and physical devel- opment than a regular course in gymnastics. In addition to the manual labor, he carried on as man^' studies as the others. Apparent hardships are often the greatest conservators of manhood. Upon graduation, he engaged in teaching in the Crescent City Schools, where he was employed one year and then accepted the position of Principal of the Melvin graded schools, which he has held to the present time, covering a period of nine years. At the last meeting of the School Board, he was chosen to the same position for the tenth year. This school has one hundred and eighty studeuts and four trained teachers. On the 14th of August, 1884, Prof. Foreman was married, in Onarga, 111., to Miss Mattie Ander- son Haight, who was bor]i April 22, 1866, , in Onarga, and is a daughter of Orriu Sheperd and Jane (Anderson) Haight. Her father was born near Rensselaerville, Rensselaer County, N. Y., January 30, 1829, and her mother was born in Mayfield, Fulton County, N. Y., on the 11th of May, 1835. They came to Iroquois County, 111., about 1860, making that their home until 1890, when they removed to Oklahoma, their present place of residence. Mrs. Foreman is a self-educated woman. When only thirteen years of age, she taught her first school, at Plato, 111. Subsequently, she attended the Grand Prairie Seminary, at Onarga, III., gradu- ating from the scientific department in the Class of '81. In 1882, she was engaged by Prof. J. II. At- wood, of the Commercial College, of Onarga, as his assistant, and spent one j'ear in that work, tak- ing a commercial course in the evenings and in- structing classes in the day time. She was gradu- ated from this department in 1882, and the next year was engaged in teaching in the northern part of Iroquois County. In 1883, she accepted the position of primary teacher in the Melvin schools, which she has held without interrui)tion to the present time. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 675 Since their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Foreman have made their home in Melvin. In June, 1890, he purchased a farm of one hundred and sixt3' acres in Sullivant Township, within two and a half miles of Sibley, on which he has made sub- stantial improvements. Tlie farm is pleasantly lo- cated, the soil is good and it is destined to be one of the vahiable farms of Ford County. Prof. Foreman is a Republican, but has had no time to devote to active politic*. lie is a memljer of the Good Templars' order and has served as Chief Templar of the lodge in Melvin. He and his wife have both won enviable reputations as educators and rank among the most able and con- scientious te.achers in this part of the Slate. Their long continuance in the positions they now hold speaks volumes in their favor. They have by persistent and well-directed effort advanced the standard of scholarship in the Melvin school until it ranks among the best schools of Ford County. V ♦^♦^ ^ J =■5.^=* A ^^ APT. NAPOLEON .SNYDER, one of the [if ^^ early settlers of Gibson Cit}', is a man well ^^^J(J known in business circles. Easton, Pa., is the place of his birth, and tlie date is .January 8, 1832. His father, .Tohn Snyder, in early life went to sea, and for nine ^ears was with Commodore De- catur. During the War of 1812, he served on board a man-of-war, "The Old Constitution," and subsequently married and settled in Pennsylv^ania. In 1836, he loaded liis family and worldly effects into a six-horse wagon and started across the moun- tains for the Far West. His purpose was to go direct to the lead mines of Galena, III., l)ut on reaching Tazewell Connt\', he decided there to lo- cate. For a numlier of 3-ears he was engaged in teaming, and as there were no railroads at that time, he w.as often called upon to haul loads both from Chicago and St. Louis. He also engaged in farming in Tazewell County. In politics, he voted with the Democratic party. His wife, whose maiden name was Elizabetli Lunger, died in Taze- well County in the jn-ime of life. He passed away at the age of sixty-two years. Mrs. Snyder, who was a devoted member of the Baptist Church, be- came the mother of eight children, only tliree of whom are now living. Our subject is the fouitli child in oi-der of birth in the family. He was reared to m.inhood in the usual manner of farmer lads, and until fourteen years of age attended tiie district school, where lie acquired his literary education. Being then left an orphan, he hired out on a farm, receiving ^6 per month as a comjiensation for liis labors. Before Mr. Snyder reached liis niaj(nity, he was united in marriage, on the 22d of October, 1852, to Miss .luliet, daughter of Myron B. and Sarah (Spike) Sjn-ague, who were natives of A'ermont and New York, resiieetively. In 1850, Mr. Sprague came bj' water to Illinois, locating in Tremont, Tazewell County, and there engaged in agricul- tural pursuits, though by trade he was a cooper. He went to Clieney's Grove, McLean County-, in 1853, where he entered Land from the Government, and began its cultivation. There himself and wife spent the remainder of their daj-s, he dying at the age of eighty-two, and she p.assing away at about the same age. Mrs. Snyder is the second in their family of seven children, five sons andtvro daugh- ters. In 1855, Mr. Snyder and wife also moved to Cheney's Grove, wiiere he secured one hundred and sixty acres of raw land on a land warrant which he had purciiased. To the breaking and im[)roving of this he gave his entire time and attention, and soon had the land under a high state of cultivation. The war having broken out, lie left his farm, stock and crops to be cared for by his wife, and October 12, 1861, enlisted as a meinlier of Comiiany L, Fourth Illinois Cavalry. The regiment was or- dered to join Grant's Brigade at Cairo, III. The chief liattles in which onr suliject i)articipated were Ft. Heniy, Ft. Donelson and Shiloh. On the 1st of .July, 1864, Mr. Snyder was commissioned Cap- tain of Company D, Mississippi iNIounted Rifles, and one year later, the war having closed, he was mustered out of service .June 1!», 1865. During his entire service he was never off duty, and never in a hospital. Upon being discharged, he returned to his farm. During his absence, his wife had battled 676 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. heroically to keep home affairs in a prosperous con- dition, and her efforts were not in vain. Having remained on the farm until 1873, they removed to Gibson City, and soon after disposed of their land in McLean County. For some ten or twelve years, Capt. Snyder en- gaged in the grocery business in Gibson City, be- ing associated with N. B. Tyler two years of that time. As a traveling salesman, he has been em- pl03'ed for about five years, and is now traveling for John vS. Gould ' numbered seven chil- dren, as follows: Fredericka, wife of F. Bork, a farmer of Brenton Township; William and Charles, who are also engaged in agricultural pursuits in the same township; August, of this sketch; Emma, wife of Andrew Ilecht, of Pella Township; Lizzie, wife of William Brauman, of Brenton Township; and Ernest, at home; the latter was born in this country, the others being natives of Germany. Our subject was a lad of six years when, with his parents, he crossed the Atlantic. lie has al- ways resided with his mother, and since liis fa- ther's death has had charge of the farm. lie now operates two hundred and eighty acres of good land and is one of the energetic and wide-awake young business men of the community. The neat appearance of the place indicates his thrift and enterprise. He takes an active interest in all that pertains to the welfare of the community and is a public-spirited and progressive citizen. He advocates Republican principles and cast his first Presidential vote for .Tames G. Blaine. He has served as delegate to the county conventions and has held the office of Commissioner of Highways. Mr. Opperman is quite a skilled musician, es- pecially on the violin and wind instruments, and he and three of his brothers are members of the Artesia Band, of Thawville. In his social relations, he is an Odd Fellow and a Mason, belonging to the societies of Piper City. He has spent the greater part of his life in this locality, and by all who know him he is held in high esteem for his sterling worth. ^AVID WOOLSTONCROFT, an honored veteran of the late war and a prominent citizen of Roberts, claims Illinois as the State of his nativity. He was born in Magnolia, Putnam County, July 18, 1840, and mention is made of his father's family on another page of this work. In the usual manner of farmer lads, his boyhood days were spent, and he after- 680 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. ward learned the trade of a stone and brick mason and plasterer. On attaining liis majority, lie started out in life for liimself and from that time was de- pendent upon hi.^Q^i PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 687 inable lady. Two children were born of their union: Archibald and Sarah, both of whom are still with their mother. Mr. McKinnej- continued to engage in farming for a number of years, making his home in Bren- ton Township until 1880. In that year he came to Kempton and establisiied a hardware store and lumber yard, carrying on business in that line until the time of his death, which occurred on the 10th of Januarj', 1885. He was a good business man, enterprising and progressive, and his success in life was all due to his own efforts. His remains were interred in the cemetery of Piper Cit}' and manj' friends mourned his loss, for he was widel}' and favorablj' known in this communitj-. In poli- tics, he was a Republican, and alwa^'S took an ac- tive interest in political affairs, keeping himself well informed on the issues of the day, and on all subjects of general interest. He held membership with the Presbyterian Church. His widow still resides in Kempton, where she has man}' friends. She is a lady of many excellencies of character, and to her husband proved a true helpmate and companion. •^^ E^^« ' OIIN THACKRAY, one of the highly re- spected farmers of Peacli Orchard Town- ship, resides on section 14, where he owns a valuable tract of land. He first purchased eighty acres, but as the 3'ears have passed he has made additional purchase, and his possessions now aggregate five hundred and twelve acres, which yield to him a golden tribute for his care and cul- tivation. His home farm is well improved with fair buildings and all the accessories of a model farm, and in the pursuit of ins chosen occupation he has acquired a handsome competence. Mr. Thackray was born in Yorkshire, England, March 2'J, 1834, and is a son of John and Isabella (Dawson) Thackraj', who were the parents of nine children, namely: William, now deceased; John of tliis sketch; Thomas, also deceased; Henry, a tailor residing in Bradford, England; Charles, who has departed this life; George, a resident of Bradford, 28 England, and a blacksmith by trade; Elizabeth, now Mrs. Franks; Mary and James. The father of this familj' followed blaoksmithing in pursuit of fortune, and was called to his final rest in 1890, his wife having departed this life in 1888. They were both members of the Church of England, and were people highly esteemed. The common schools of his native land afforded our subject his educational privileges. He started out in life for himself at the age of sixteen 3 ears, working as a farm hand and at other labor whereby he might earn an honest dollar and pro- vide for his own support. At length, he determined to make a home in America, of whose excellent ad- vantages and prospects he had heard much. In 1856, he sailed from Liverpool, and after about seven weeks spent upon the broad Atlantic, reached New York City in safetv. He soon afterward made his way to Chicago, and began work at day's labor in a chair"factory of that place, in which he was employed until 1857. That year was spent in Michigan, chopping cord wood and clearing land, working either by the mouth or day, and in the spring of 1858, we find him at Keastner's Mills, Putnam County, 111. He also worked upon a farm. To that employment he devoted his energies until the winter of 1859, when he began chopping cord wood. In the spring, he purchased some land in Putnam County, a tract heavily timbered, and be- gan the development and improvement of the farm, clearing it and placing it under a good state of cultivation. On the 13th of June, 1865, INIr. Thackray was united in marriage to Miss Catherine Phillips, daughter of George and Martha Phillips, both of whom were of English descent. Eight children have blessed their union, namely: George \V., now engaged in farming in Peach Orchard Township; Edward, who died in infancy'; Martha I., at home; Mary, who died in infancy'; John, Amos, Mary Etta and James, who are still under the parental roof. In the spring of 1869, Mr. Thackrav left Putnam County, III., sold his farm and came to Ford County, locating on section 14, Peach Orchard Township, on railroad land, where he has since re- sided. He is a Republican in] politics, and, as 688 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. every true American citizen should do, feels an in- terest in political affairs. He has served both as School Director and Township Trustee. All enter- prises calculated to prove of public benefit receive his hearty support and co-operation, and his aid is never withheld from an\' interest which tends to promote the general welfare. lie is a valued and representative citizen, and one well deserving of honorable mention in tiie history of his adopted county. THOMAS MoDERJIOTT, who is numbered among the early settlers of Ford County, residing on section 9, Pella Township, was \nn\ in County Roscommon, Ireland, on the 19th of March, 1837. His parents, Patrick and Bridget (Conlon) McDermott, were both natives of the Emerald Isle. The father was a farmer, and in 1851 emigrated to America. After a year and a half spent in the Empire State, he came to Illi- nois in 1853, locating in Peoria County. He lived in that count>- with his son during the re- mainder of his life, his death occurring in Peoria in 1874. His wife passed away in that city in 1860. Unto them were born the following chil- dren: James, who is now engaged in farming in Peoria County; .John, wlio served in the Fort>'- seventh Illinois Infantry during the late war and now resides in Streator, 111.; Patrick, who makes his iiome in Chicago; Ann, who is living in Peoria County; Michael, now deceased; and Thomas, of this sketch. All of the children were born and reared in Ireland. Our subject began his school life in his native land and completed his education in the schools of this country, whither he came with his par- ents when fourteen 3-ears of age. He remained under the parental roof until he had attained his majority, and then began working as a farm hand bj- the month. As soon as he had acquired suf- ficient means, he purchased land and began farm- ing in Peoria County, where he made his home until 1869, when lie came to Ford County and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land, constituting his present farm. It has since been his home, and in the years which have since come and gone he has transformed it from a wild tract into a highly-improved place, whose rich and fer- tile fields yield to him a good income. In con- nection with general farming, he engages in stock- raising, having for about fifteen years made a speeialt}' of thorough-bred horses. On the 12th of May, 1860, Mr. McDermott was united in marriage with Ellen Berigan, a native of Ireland, who came to America when about nine years old with her parents, Patrick and Ann (Macke3') Berigan, who settled on Staten Island, and after five years spent in that locality emi- grated to Peoria, 111. The mother now resides in Chatsworth, Livingston County. The father died May 20, 1892. Both Mr. and Mrs. McDermott are members of the Catholic Church of Piper City, and in this communit}' are well and favorably known, having many friends throughout the county. Mr. McDermott cast his first Presidential vote for Stephen A. Douglas, and has since been a stanch advocate of Democratic principles. He has been honored with a number of local olflces; for eleven consecutive j-ears he has been Supervisor of his township, for eight 3'ears served as Assessor, was Commissioner of Highways, and Treasurer of several drainage districts. He is now Treasurer of Districts Nos. 1 and 2. The land in Ford County being swampy and low, it was unfit for farming purposes until drained, and those citizens who have labored so earnestly in this direction deserve great credit for what they have done. Mr. Mc- Dermott has ever had the best interests of the community at heart and is a highly respected citizen of Pella Township. -^¥r /i^^ HRISTOPHER C. CRANDALL, a well- (11 ^-^ known farmer of Pella Township, residing ^^^ on section 4, was born September 3, 1845, in Cook Count}', 111. His father, Heman Cran- dall, was a native of Vermont and a son of John Craudall, a farmer who served in the War of 1812. He resided for many years in the town of Mona, Franklin County, N. Y., where his death occurred PORTRAIT A^■D WOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 689 in 1867. Heman Crandall came to Illinois in the fall of 1833, and settled at Chicago, which was then only a log tavern. He was at the first land sale which occurred at that place and purchased land in Cook County, wliere he made his home for many years, devoting his time and attention to agricultural pursuits. lie served as a Lieuten- ant in the Illinois Militia under Gov. Carlin, as a member of Company A, Sixtieth Illinois Infan- try-, and the commission, which bore date June 15, 1842, is still in possession of his son, Christo- pher C. He married Lydia Bushnell, who was born near Mentor, Ohio, and when twelve years of age came to Illinois and worked in the old New York House, the first hotel in Chicago. She was there married, .lune 13, 1836, when sixteen years of age, and is still living in California at the age of seventy-two years. The death of Mr. Crandall occurred in Ford Countj-, and his remains were laid to rest in Brentou Cemetery. In the familj' were eleven children: Eady, born September 12, 1837; Ruey K., September 17, 1839; Mary M., July 14, 1841; Martha E., October 6, 1843; Christopher C, September 3, 1845; Imogene E., October 9, 1847; Herman A., December 8, 1849; George C, October 11, 1851; Lydia S., who was born March 20, 1854, and died September 3, 1855; Eva E., born April 4, 1857; Benjamin S., March 6, 1859; and William A., June 2, 1861. The early life of our subject passed unevent- fully in the usual manner of farmer lads on the frontier, but after the breaking out of the late war, he responded to the call for troops, enlisting at Jolict, in 1862, as a member of the Eighth Phalanx, Thirty-ninth Illinois Infantry — Gov. Yates' picked regiment. Their first service was in the Shenan- doah Valley, and they were the first regiment at the siege of Charlestown. Mr. Crandall partici- pated in Butler's expedition up the James River, the siege of Vicksburg and the battle of Appomat- tox, and has in his possession a piece of the apple tree under which the surrender was made. At the battle of Deep Bottom, Va., Mr. Crandall was hit by a piece of shell in the shoulder, his ribs were broken, a piece of the shell cracked his skull and he received seven bullet wounds, all in going six- teen rods. Of all the officers of the regiment who went into the service only one lieutenant re- turned. After the surrender of Ft. Monroe, Va., our subject received his discharge, in October, 1865, and was mustered out at Springfield in December. On the 28th of March of the following year, Mr. Crandall was married, in Chicago, to Miss Roxanna Reed, who was born in Bristol, Ontario County, N. Y. They removed to Martin County, Minn., and took up a claim of Government land, on which they resided for a year, when they returned to Illinois. In the spring of 1871, they went to Missouri, and for eleven years Mr. Crandall en- gaged in farming in Adair County. He came to Ford County in 1882, and has since made his home on section 4, Fella Township, where he owns eight}' acres of valuable land. However, he oper- ates two hundred acres. He is a practical and progressive farmer, and by close attention to busi- ness has won a competence. Socially, he is a member of the Grand Army Post and the Masonic fraternity of Piper City. In politics, he has been a stalwart Republican since he cast his first Presi- dential vote for Gen. Grant. His wife and two eldest children are members of the Methodist Church. Unto Mr. aud Mrs. Crandall were born seven children: George M., who was born in Cook County, April 1, 1869, is now engaged in farming in Pella Township; Lizzie K., born April 5, 1875; Henry M., born February 6, 1876, is in Wilson, Mo.; Bessie E., born December 15, 1879; Martha E., July 31, 1882; Inez 0., September 18, 1884; and Christopher C, April 15, 1887. Carrie, the eldest, was born June 5, 1867, in Minnesota, and died in Missouri, in 1872. AVID BAARE. who is engaged in general farming on section 27, Rogers Township, claims Pennsj'lvania as the State of his na- tivitj'. He was born in Lancaster County, October 16, 1836, and is a son of David Baare, Sr., who was also born in Lancaster County. The grandfather was a native of Germany and became one of the honored pioneers of Lancaster County. The mother 690 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. of our subject, who bore the maideu name of Cath- erine Sanders, died whan her son was a babe of nine months. The father was a carpenter by trade and did business as a contractor and builder for a number of years. He came to Illinois in 1855, lo- cating in Naperville, Du Page County, where he made his home for a few j^ears, when he removed to Will County, locating in Joliet. His death oc- curred several years later, in 1870. The subject of this sketch spent the days of his boyhood and j'outh in the county of his nativity, and when a young man came to the West with his father. He began working for himself, and was employed as a farm hand by the month for several years. In 1864;, he joined the Fourth Illinois Cav- alry, which was afterward consolidated with the Twelfth Regiment of Cavalry, and served imtil the close of the war, when be was discharged, in October, 1865. He went South with his regiment and did duty in Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas. When the country no longer needed his services, Mr. Baare returned to his home and spent one 3'ear as a farm hand in Will County. In 1867, he came to Ford County, and purchased an eighty-acre tract of wild land. He was one of the first settlers of this community. He began the development of his farm, and after a time extended its boundaries until it now comprises one hundred and sixty acres, all under a high state of cultivation and well im- proved. The house, barn, and other outbuild- ings all stand as monuments to his thrift and enterprise. A marriage ceremony performed in Will Count}', March 19, 18G7, united the destinies of Mr. Baare and Mrs. Margaret Ann INIanser. She was the widow of Samuel Manser and a daughter of Ben- jamin Pennell. By her first marriage she had two children: John F., who resides in Cabery; and MayMelinda, wife of Samuel Dorman, who resides in Livingston County. Mrs. Baare is a native of Lancaster County, Pa. By the second marriage there have been born three children: Henry S., a carpenter employed by a bridge company in Mis- sissippi; David M. and William A., who aid in the operation of the home farm. Mr. Baare votes with the Democratic party. We see in him a self-made man, who began life with only a young man's bright hope of the future and a determination to succeed, and he has succeeded, winning his way upward to au enviable position among the substantial and prominent citizens of Ford County. Ilislife has been well and worthily spent, and it is with pleasure that we present this record to our readers. 3^" ^^ HRISTIAN HOLMES, who owns and oper- [l( ates a good farm of eighty acres on section ^^J/j 31, Brenton Township, is a native of Den- mark. He was born near AUinge, February 20, 1842, and is a son of Anders Holm, who lived on a little island called Allinge. He spelled his name Holm, but since the family came to America the letters e and s have been added. He married Caren C. Kaas, who was reared on the same island. His death occurred in 1877, at the age of seventy-seven years, and his wife passed away at the age of eighty years. They were both members of the Lutheran Church and their family numbered eight children : Hans Cliristian, a cooper of Louisville, Ky.; Chris- tian of this sketch; and Christina who died in Den- mark. The other children died in infancy. The education of our subject was acquired in his native land prior to his fifteenth year, and when sixteen years of age he began learning the carpenter's trade, which he followed in the Old Country until 1865,when, having determined to try his fortune in America, he made his way to Liver- pool, England, from whence he sailed to New York, reaching his destination after a voyage of sixteen days. He made his first location in Jamestown, N. Y., and after a few months went to Chicago, after- wards spending a short time in Cincinnati, in Ind- ianapolis and in Greencastle, Ind. He did Govern- ment work as a carpenter for a few months and in February, 1866, went to Nashville, Washington County, 111., where he spent two years working at car|)entering. We next find him in Normal, Mc- Lean County, where he resided from 1868 until 1875, when he came to Ford County and purchased his present farm of eighty acres. A little shanty' constituted the improvements at that time and the ^^A^ /^^ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 693 land was still in its primitive condition, but acre after acre was soon cleared and the well-tilled fields now yield to him a golden tribute. A com- fortable home has been built and all the accessories of a model farm can there be found. In Chicago, in 1869, Mr. Holmes was united in marriage with Miss Maria Hansen, who was liorn in Denmark, and crossed the Atlantic to this country about 1869. By their union have been born seven children, namely: Hannah, wife of Ira Knight, a resident farmer of Livingston County; Lewis, George, Minnie, Johnnie, Fred and William. The three eldest children were born in Normal and all were educated in the public schools. In his political affiliations, Mr. Holmes is a Re- publican. Wlien ho landed at New York, he had only $20 in gold, and he may well be termed a self- made man, for by his own efforts he has acquired a good competence and is recognized as one of the prosperous had valued citizens of this community. He has made his home in Ford County for seven- teen j'cars, his duties of citizenship have ever been faithfully performed and the upright life which he has led has won him the confidence of all. RS. JOHN PHIPPS, who resides on section 6, Lyman Township, was born in Iloward- ville, Center County, Pa., May 21, 1841, and is a daughter of James and Eliza (Courter) Britton. Her father was born in the Keystone State, March 8, 181.3, acquired a com- mon-school education, and was early inured to hard work. For some tune, he engaged in the manufac- ture of iron goods, but after a time concluded to try his fortune on the broad prairies of the AVest, and with a team made an overland journey to Illi- nois across the States of Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana. He first located in Kendall County, where he remained for about eleven years, when he came to Ford County and made his fiist |)ur- chase of land, becoming owner of forty acres, later of fort^' more of unbroken prairie. His death oc- curred at the age of sixty j'ears. His wife, who was bom April 1, 1818, died June 12, 1892. They were parents of six children, three sons and three daughters, of whom three are yet living: Thomas T. is now married and engaged in the manufacture of medicine in Re3'nolds, Ind. He served in the Eight3'-ninth Infantry during the late war, and was badly wounded in the head at Mission Ridge, on the 2.5th of November, 186.3. Mrs. Phipps is the next younger; Franklin Pierce is married and fol- lows farming in Livingston Count}', III.; John M., Dorcas M. and Mary C. are all deceased, and there was only eight days' difference in their deaths. Mrs. Phipps was a maiden of fifteen summers when, with her parents, she came to Illinois. She was educated in the seminary in Howardville, Pa., and in the schools of this State. On the 27th of September, 1865, in Bristol, Kendall County, she became the wife of John Phipps, who was a native of New York, but was reared in Kendall County. B}' occupation he was a farmer, but when the coun- tr3' called for troops during the late war, he aban- doned his work and entered the service, August 15, 1862, as one of the brave boys of Company D, Ninety-first Illinois Infantry, under Capt. August P. Stover. The regiment was assigned to the Army of the Cumberland, and its line of duty lay through Kentucky, Tennessee, ]Mississippi and Ala- bama. Mr. Phipps participated in the battles of Elizabeth town. Point Isabel, Atchafalaya, White Ranch, Whistlers' Station, and the siege of Spanish Foit. He twice crossed the Gulf of Mexico, and was taken prisoner in Kentucky, but was parolled shortly afterward. On the close of the war, he was honorably discharged, July 12, 1865, in Mobile. When the country no longer needed his services, Mr. Phipps returned to his home in Kendall Count}') and in 1857 brought his family to Ford County. He became owner of one hundred and sixt}- acres of highly improved land, and made it an excellent farm, devoting his energies to its cultivation and development. He was called to his final rest, May 9, 1889, and his remains were interred in Chat- worth (Jemeterj', his death being deepl}' regretted by all. In politics, he was a stalwart Republican. He served as School Director, and did everything in his power for the u[)building and improvement of the community. 694 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Phipps were born four chil- dren, three sons and a daughter, two of whom are yet living: Eddy .T., superintends the management of his mother's farm, and resides on the old home- stead. He was educated in the High School and the Normal School, both of Morris,Gruudy County, and is a man of excellent business ability. He wedded Miss Mamie, daughter of Oliver and Olive (Kil- patriclv) Woodrow. They were married March 20, 1888, and unto them was born a daughter, Grace B., and a son, but the latter is now deceased. Ada B. became the wife of .lohn Hawthorne, a resident farmer of Lyman Township, March 4, 1890, and thej' have a little son, Leroy James. Mrs. Phipps is a member of the Methodist Cluirch, and is a lady of cliaritable and I)enevoIent im- pulses, whose good works have won lier the love of manj'. She still resides on the old home farm where she has a commodious and comfortalilo resi- dence, supplied with all the comforts and many of the luxuries of life. E^ #, HARLES E. CHAPIN, M. D. Among the successful young physicians and surgeons ^^^.' of Ford County, who have built up a large and rapidly increasing practice, and have arisen by their own merit, must be mentioned the gentle- man whose name heads this sketch, a prominent practitioner of Melvin. He was born in De Witt, De Witt County, 111., on the 29th of .January, 1866, and is a son of Stillman A. and Susan (Lafifertj) Chapin. His father is also a native of Illinois, and was l)orn on the site of East St. Louis, in 1821, his parents being natives of Virginia, who emigrated to Illinois about the time this State was admitted to the Union. The Doctor's mother was born in Champaign County, Ohio, in 1823, and during her childhood came with her family to Illinois. Botli parents are still living, and yet reside in De Witt, where they have made their liome since early life. In their familj' are four children, three sons and a daughter. All the boys are physicians: Samuel L., of Saybrook, 111.; Hiram 8., of Holder, 111.; and Charles E., of this sketch. Charles E. Chapin acquired his literary educa- tion in the Clinton High School, and, having de- termined to enter tiie medical profession, began fitting himself for practice. After pursuing a three- years' course of study in the Rush Medical College of Chicago, he was graduated from that institu- tion in the Class of '91, and on receiving his di- ploma, he at once established practice in Melvin. Dr. Chapin is well up in his profession, is energetic and prompt in the discharge of his professional duties, and has rapidly won his way into the con- fidence and esteem of his patrons. In LeRoy, 111., on the 8th of May, 1889. the Doctor was joined in wedlock with Miss Lizzie Sterling, who was born near that city, and is a daughter of Samuel and Martlia (West) Sterling. Their union has been blessed with one child, a son, Arnett Sterling, who was born in Le Roy, on the 7th of September, 1890. The parents are well and favorabl}' known in this comniuuity, and rank high in social circles. Dr. Chapin is a member of jNIel- vin Lodge No. 811, A. F. ife A. M., and also belongs to Peach Orchard Lodge No. 179, K. P. In his political affiliations, he is a Democrat, and has served two years as Postmaster of De Witt, 111., under President Cleveland's administration. He has already won an enviable recognition among his professional brethren of experience, and has the ability which will make him a successful physician. (* IVILLIAIM PERDUE, a retired farmer and \rj// Stock-grower now residing in Paxton, is W^ the owner of six hundred and ten acres of valuable land in Ford County, situated in tracts on sections 2, 4, 9 and 14, Town 23, Range 9, Pat- ton Township. The old homestead lies on section 2, and the tracts are mostly contiguous. The subject of this sketch is a native of Penn- sylvania, and was born in Chester County, on the nth of April, 1840, being the third of eight chil- dren, six sons and two daughters. His parents were Mentor and Marj' Perdue. His father was born in Southern Virginia, December 1, 1796, of parents who were emigrants from Pennsylvania. In earlj' PORTRAIT AND BIOORAPHICAL RECORD. 695 life, he made his home in Chester County, Pa., and with his family emigrated to Illinois in 1852, loca- ting in Chicago. He had been an extensive iron manufacturer in Pennsylvania, Virginia and Mar}'- land. In 18.")y, accompanied by his wife and chil- dren, lie removed to Ford County, and located on what was later the homestead farm of his son Will- iam, on section 2, Patton Township. The parents both died in this county, the death of the father occurring September 22, 1872, and the mother, who was born February 29, 1811, p.assed awaj' April 2, 1889. Both were members of the Quaker Church, to wliicli they ever adhered. William Perdue, whose name heads this record, spent his childhood on his father's farm in Penn- sylvania, and when twelve years of age, came with the family to Chicago, where he spent seven j-ears and attended the Chicago schools. When eleven daj'S p.ast his majority, he started out in life for himself with the small capital whicli he iiad earned the summer before in tlie harvest field. One year later, he began farming in iNIorris, and after three years returned to Patton, where he purchased a farm of one hundred and sixty acres, mostly on credit, to which he has added by additional pur- chase until his landed possessions now aggregate six hundred and ten acres. He early began rais- ing stock, and by care in breeding became quite successful in that line. On the 23rd of September, 18G3, Mr. Perdue was united in marriage in Paxton with Miss Minerva C. Stoner, daugliter of Daniel C. Stoner, a pioneer settler of Patton Township. The lady is a native of La F'ayette, Ind., and came to wliat is now Pat- ton Township with her parents in 18.51. Mr. .ind Mrs. Perdue have four daughters and one son: Susan A., Lena B., Bessie G., Hortense and Daniel Stoner, all of whom were born in Patton Town- ship. In iiis political attiliations, Mr. Perdue is a Re- publican, but has never sought or desired public office. He and his wife, also their daughters, are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and since 1883 tlie family has resided in Paxton. Mr. Pel due is well known as one of the early settlers and successful farmers of Ford County. He has led an .active and useful life, has been an indu^tl■i()us man, and h.as accumulated a valuable property. His intercourse with his fellow-men h.as been dis- tinguished b3' strict integrity, kind and .accommo- dating ways, and a Christian spirit, so th.at all with whom business or pleasure has brought him in con- tact entertain for him only kind regard and pro found respect. -^^ -^ — ^ OHN ESSINGTON lias for seventeen years resided upon his present farm on section 12, Mona Townsliip, and is numbered _ among the leading farmers of tlie commu- nity. He was born in England, March 7, 1849, and is a son of George and Sar.ali (Scott) Essing- ton, both of whom were natives of F^ngland. The father was a blacksmith by trade. He came to America on a sailing-vessel in 1856, reaching New York after a V03\age of thirty days. He then came to Illinois, locating in Du Page, where he spent one 3ear working at his chosen occupation. He then removed to Plainfield, Will Count}-, where he purchased a shop and engaged in business for a few years, afterward purchasing a farm, upon which he spent tlie remainder of liis days, his death occurring February 12, 1886. His remains were in- terred in Plainfield Cemetery. In politics, he w.as a Democratand was a prominentcitizen. His wife had long since passed awa\', liaving lieen called to the home beyond in 1854, and he was .again married, in Fjngland, this time to Mary Buffhan, a widow lady, by whom there were born the following children: Mary D. D. and .Tolin .losepli. She now resides at Dwight with her son .loliii. Unto this worthy couple were born eight children: Mar}', widow of John Clayton, resides in Kendall County, 111.; (reorge is a farmer of Mona Township; Hugh died in 1876; Henry is a farmer residing in Rogers Township; Eliza became the wife of AVilliain Bry- ant, a resident fanner of Kendall County, 111., and was called to her final rest in 1885; John, of this sketch, is the next younger; Edwin is engaged in agricultural pursuits in Kendall County; and Car- oline, who completes the family, is the wife of Lewis Pierson, also a farmer oi Kendall County. 696 POETRAIT AND BIOGRAPinCAL RECORD. In the common scliools, John Essington acquired an education which has well fitted him for the practical duties of life. He began to earn his own livelihood at the age of seventeen years, working as a farm hand by the month for a year. He then engaged in business for himself, renting land. In 1871, he came to Ford County, and for four years operated a rented farm in Mona Town- ship. By his industry, perseverance and good management, he acquired some capital, and in 1875 made purchase of one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 12, where he has since re- sided. On the 11th of February, 1875, Mr. Essington led to the marriage altar Miss Clara Olson, daugh- ter of Charlie and Elizabeth Olson. Nine children have been born of their union, but two died in infancy. The two sons and five daughters yet living are: Walter, Mabel, Jennie, Rachel, Julia, Emma and Wallace. The family have a pleasant home, and tiie farm which our subject owns is one of the desirable places of the community. It is well improved and the highly cultivated land yields him a golden tribute for the care and labor he bestows upon it. In his political affiliations, Mr. Essington is a Republican. fcllOMAS SCOTT, a leading agriculturist of Dix Township, residing on section 31, was born on the 29th of November, 1841, near Magnolia, La Salle, County, III., and is a son of George and Harriet B. (riiillips) Scott, the former a native of Virginia, and the latter of Kentucky. They became the parents of five children: Nancj' J., wife of Lewis Luddington, who is one of the grain inspectors in Chicago; Thomas, of tliis sketch; Lewis, who died in infancy; Henry, a dealer in farm implements of Kansas City, Mo.; and George Z., an attorney at law, located in Decatur, 111. The father of this family-, attracted by the discovery of gold on the Pacific slope, made an overland trip to California in 1850, reaching his destination after about six months of travel. He made the return journey by water. In 1870, he came to Ford County, 111., and located in Wall Township, where he purchased land. After two years spent in farm- ing in that locality, he removed to Dix Township, and purchased a one hundred and twenty acre farm on section 31, where he resided until called to the home beyond. He died February 7, 1885, and his remains were interred in Gibson Cemetery. In his political affiliations, he was a Republican. His widow still lives, making her home in Gibson City. Mr. Scott of this record attended the district schools in his earlier years and completed his edu- cation in the Northern Illinois Institute, after which he located in Henry, 111. He started out in life for himself when nineleen years of age, and has made farming his principal occupation. On attaining his majority, he responded to the coun- try's call for volunteers to crush out the Rebellion, and, in 1862, enlisted in Company B, Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry. He was mustered into service at Peoria, August 27, and the first important en- gagement in which he participated was at Perry- ville, Ky. He went with Sherman on the cele- brated march from Atlanta to the sea. In a skirmish at Kenesaw Mountain, he was wounded in the left arm by a rainie ball and was taken to the field hospital in Nashville. Soon afterward, he was granted a furlough and returned home. Sub- sequently, he was transferred to Company K, One Hundred and Fifty-fifth Illinois Infantry, and was promoted to the rank of First Lieutenant. He participated in man^- other engagements, and when the war was over was honorably discharged, in De- cember, 1865. Mr. Scott then returned to his home, and, with his parents, came to Ford County. He is still liv- ing on the old homestead. As a companion and helpmate on life's journey, he chose Miss Laura McCann, a daugliter of William W. and Sarah H. (Bell) McCann. Tiieir union was celebrated De- cember 2, 1874, and unto them have been born seven children, .as follows: Jennie, Harry, Mabel, Ilattie, Laura, Lona and Florence. With the exception of Laura, who died Februaiy 2, 1891, all are yet living. Mr. Scott supports that party which stood by the Union during the late war, and is a stalwart Republican. He was a faithful soldier, ever found I ./M. /cSo^A (/^y(yCJ^ Jn^ . eoiy^'VcO ^c7i , c/tcx- cozJly I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 699 at his post of duty, and by his meritorious conduct won promotion. He is also a valued citizen of the community' in which he makes his home, and is a successful farmer. f,OBERT M. KARR resides on section 34, Wall Township, where he follows general Ji \\\ farming. He was born in Cosliocton County, Ohio, October 13, 1834, and is a son of Robert Karr, a native of Pennsylvania, who removed to Ohio in an earl}' day. He also fol- lowed farming as a means of livelihood. He wedded Mary .1. Endsley, who was of English des- cent and unto them were born a family of seven children: John, a retired farmer, residing in Paxton ; Isal)ella, wife of John MuKinsley, who follows farming near Otter Lake, Mich.; Nancy, wife of James McKinsley, a resident farmer of Summit County, Ohio; Andrew, who is living near the old homestead in Ohio; Mary Jane, deceased, and Matilda, wife of Alonzo Bradley, who also en- gages in agricultural pursuits near Otter Creek, Mich. The mother of this family died in 1841, and in 1844. Mr. Karr married Martha Young, by whom he had three children: Elizabeth A., wife of Isaac 'Rush, a farmer residing in Summit County, Ohio; Martha E., wife of John Doughtery, a farmer residing in Ohio, and James A., deceased. Robert Karr attended the district schools until about fifteen years of age, when his school life was ended and he gave his attention to farm work. He remained under the parental roof until twent}'- four years of age. As a companion and helpmate on life's journey he chose Miss Martha Ann, daugh- ter of Andrew and Jane (McArmlty) McLaughlin. Her father was a native of Belfast, Ireland, and was a weaver by trade. He came to America about 1820, the vo\'age across the Atlantic con- suming a month, and in New York he followed weas'ing. Afterward, he went to Pittsburg and later to Holmes County, Ohio, where, in 1824, he entered land from the Government and turned his attention to agricultural pursuits. In the Mc- Laughlin family were seven sons and seven daugh- ters, of whom four sons and two daughters are yet living: John, who wore the blue during the late war and has since followed farming in Iowa; Mrs. Karr, wife of our subject; Mar}', wife of Col. Anderson, a farmer residing in Green City, Mo.; Robert, who for four years was a union soldier daring the late war, resides with his wife and four children in Iowa; Hugh, who is also a veteran of the late war, and was an inmate of Libby Prison, married a daughter of Thomas Yates, a brother of the War Governor, and resides in Springfield, and George, the youngest, is living with his mother in Missouri. Mrs. McLaughlin survives at the age of eighty-eight jears and is still hale and heartj'. Mrs. Karr is a lad}' of pleasing address and has been a valued helpmate to her husband. She has in her home an old English volume on re- ligion, which was published in 1767, and is a century and a quarter old. This is a cherished heirloom and probaljly in Ford Count}' there is not another volume bearing so ancient a date. Soon after his marriage, Mr. Karr purchased one hundred acres of land in Ohio, and there engaged in farming until the breaking out of the late war when, in the spring of 18G3, lie responded to the country's call for troops, enlisting in Company H, One Hundred and Forty-third Ohio Infantry. He was mustered into service at Camp Chase and given .the rank of Corporal ere the close of the war. With his command he engaged in active duty un- til his services were no longer needed, when he was discharged September 13, 1864, and returned to his home in Ohio, where he resided until 1869. That year witnessed his arrival in Ford County, 111. For three years he rented land near Pax- ton and then purchased eighty acres in Wall Town- ship, upon which he made his home for four years. He afterwards purchased the farm on which he now resides, then comprising one hundred and sixty acres on section 34. He has succeeded in his undertakings and with the increase of his finan- cial resources has made other purchases, his landed possessions now aggregating ihree hundred and twenty acres, one hundred and sixty on section 34 and one hundred and sixty on section 35. Seven children grace the union of Mr. and Mrs. Karr: William, who now lives with his wife and 700 PORTRAIT AM> BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. one child upon a farm in Wall Township; Thomas; Mary E., who is blind and graduated from the Jacksonville Institute for the Blind in 1887; Ed- ward and Frank, twins; Samuel L., and Nettie Belle, who died in infaiic}'. Mr. and Mrs. Karr are members of the United Presbyterian Church of Paxton; he also holds mem- bership with Post No. 387, G. A. R., of Pax- ton, and in his political affiliations is a Repub- lican. He has held the office of Road Commis- sioner for nine years and his long continued ser- vice is proof of the fact that his duties were ever faithfully discharged. Those who have met Mr. Karr esteem him highly and we know him worthy of their regard. -m y^ /,.., N.SP^LM T. BLAKE, who resides on section Ol 28, Uix Township, where he is engaged in farming, is numbered among the earl^'set- v5g^ tiers of the county, his residence here cov- ering a period of twenty-three j'ears. With the history of the communit}' he has been prominently identified, and is recognized as one of its leading and influential citizens. On the -iStli of March, 1824, Mr. Blake was born in Cable County, Va. His father, David Blake, was a native of Ohio. He was born in the old block house at Marietta, Washington County, dur- ing the Indian war, and was of English descent. For many years he was a hop-grower in the Buck- eye State. In 1850, he came with his wife to Illi- nois, locating in Wayne Count}', where they spent the remainder of their lives. The father died in 1861, and Mrs. Blake, who bore the maiden name of Marj' Slone, passed away in 1868. They were the parents of seven children, .as follows: John 8., Anselm T., Elizabeth, Benjamin, Sarah, Augusta and William. The subject of this sketch began his education in a little logschoolhouse with slab seats and punch- eon floor, to which he had to walk a mile and a half. He attended school at intervals until eigh- teen years of age and remained with his parents until twentj'-two years of age. He then engaged in building and running flat-boats down the Ohio River, from Sample's Lauding to Cincinnati. After four or five years spent in that way, he emigrated to Illinois, in 1848, locating in Wayne County, where he engaged in farming. In 1855, he re- moved to Logan County, settling near Lincoln, where he continued to reside until 1859. In the meantime, Mr. Blake was united in mar- riage with Miss Cynthia, a daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth Staats. Their union was celebrated in 1848, and unto them have been born a familj' of six children, as follows: Harriet, Amanda. Viola, Atlanta, Lucy and Arizona. In 1859, on leaving Logan County, ]\Ir. Blake came to Ford County, settling in Dix Township. He purchased his present farm on section 28, and since that time has here made his home. He has led a busy and useful life, yet has found time to devote to public interests. He has held the office of Constable, served as Road Commissioner, for nine j'ears was School Director, and in an early d.ay kept a post-office in his home for twelve years. In politics, he is a stanch Republican, and in his social relations is an Odd Fellow, having been con- nected with that fraternity since 1856. He is a public-spirited and progressive citizen, who has the best interests of the comraunit^y at heart. His pub- lic duties have ever beeu faithfull}' performed and he has therefore won the confidence of all, while his upright life has gained him the respect of a large circle of friends and acquaintances. ^- ^ ^^^ERD GERDES now owns and operates forty 1(1 , — , acres of ijood land on section 27, Dix Town- Ill (^ ^ ^^J) ship. He is a native of Germany, and one of eight children born unto Gerd and Gertrude (Wilkins) Gordes. The father was a farmer and followed that occupation throughout his entire life. Neither of the parents ever left their native land and both are now deceased. The subject of this sketch spent the daj-s of his boyhood and 3-outh upon his father's farm in Ger- many, and acquired a good education in the public PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. roi schools of his native land. In 1840, he was united in marriage with Miss Gasscha Franz.an, and unto them were born five children, tliree sons and two daughters, namely: Abbie F.,Mary, Frank, Charlie and Annie. Mr. Gerdes continued to make his home in Ger- many uutil 1872, when, in company with his fam- ily, he emigrated to America. He crossed tiie Atlantic to New York Citj', and came on at once to Illinois, making a settlement in McLean County, where he spent the two succeeding years of his life. He then came to Ford County, and engaged in the operation of rented land for seven years. He was successful in his business undertakings dur- ing that period and, with the capital thus acquired, purchased forty acres of land on section 27, Dix Township, where he has since made his home. He has lived the quiet, unassuming life of a farmer, .and has busied himself with his agricultural inter- ests. He has never taken a very prominent part in public affairs, but has proved himself a worthy and valued citizen of the community. In his po- litical aftiliations, he is a Democrat. It was a fortunate day for Mv. Gerdes when he decided to emigrate to America, for here he has found a pleasant home and has met with success in his business career. S] RA W. HAND, one of the prominent farmers I of Pella Township, residing on section 10, was /li born in Oneida County, N. Y., near tlie city of Utica, on the 1st of April, 1831. The father, 8eth Hand, was born in Vermont, May 20, 1807, and during his boyhood removed toNew York, settling at York Mills, Oneida County. He engaged in milling until his death, which occurred December 19, 1845. He was married, in the Empire State, to Irene Runnyan, a native of New York, who was born December 9, 1810, and died in Herkimer County, in August, 1891. Four children yet sur- vive: Thaddeus, who is living in I'tica, N. Y.; Ira. of this sketch; Charles, a traveling salesman, who resides in New York City; and AVilliam Harrison, of Little Falls, Herkimer County. Our subject had limited educational advantages. He attended the night scliools, for when his father died he had to begin to earn his own livelihood. He was married, on the 23d of August, 1853, to IMiss Harriet Seeber, a native of Jlontgomcry County, N. Y., and a daughter of David and Lana (Yorden) Seeber, who were of German descent. Both grandparents of David Seeber served in the Revolutionary- War. The parents of Mrs. Hand died in Sandwich, De Kalb County, 111. She was reared in Boouesville, Oneida County, N. Y., and in 1856 accompanied her husband on his emigra- tion to DeKalb County. Mr. Hand there engaged in farming, having purchased his land with money that he had saved from his earnings while working in a factory. In 1859, he came to La Salle County and two years later removed to Livingston County, where he purchased a farm. On the 12tli of August, 1862, Mr. Hand enlisted for the late war as a member of the One Hundred and Twenty-ninth Illinois Infantry, under Col. G. P. Smith. The regiment was sent to TyOuisville,' Ky., and assigned to the Tenth Division, R. S. Gr.anger being commander of the Brigade. They went in pursuit of Bragg to Crab Orchard, then retreated to Danville, and were sent to garrison Mitchellville, Ky., November 21, 1862. They were afterward on guard duty at Ft. Thomas, and Gal- latin, and in August, 1863, marched to Nashville, where they did guard duty until February 24, 1864. Previous to this, the regiment had been assigned to the First Brigade, Third Division, Twentieth Army Corps, under Gen. Joseph Hooker. On the 3d of May, they started for Atlanta with Gen. Sherman and particiiiated in tlie battles of Resaca, Buzzards" Roost, Dallas and Peach Tree Creek. Mr. Hand w.as wounded at Kenesaw ^Mountain in the left leg. The ball p.assed through the leg and lodged in his pocket-book and tiiis piece of lead he yet has in his possession. The wound proved quite serious and he was confined in the hospital until the 24th of .lune, when he was sent l)ack to Chat- tanooga, and afterward to the Cumlierland Hospital in Nashville. By the neglect of the surgeon, g.an- grene set in .and his sufferings were intense. His father-in-law came for him and he returned home, just two years from the day of his enlistment. He 702 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD, receivt-fl his discharge January 28, 1865. He might have had a position as Captain of a colored regi- ment but determined to remain with the regiment in which he had enlisted. They marched to the front with nine hundred and twenty-seven and returned with less than two hundred. Mr. Hand began farming with crutches under his arms, having not yet recovered from his wound. He resided in Livingston County until 1872, when he came to Ford Count}- and purchased eighty acres of land which has since been his home. He now has a good residence surrounded with shade and orn.imental trees, barns and outbuildings liave been erected for the care of his grain and stock, and every improvement upon the place is the work of his own hands. Mr. and Mrs. Hand have a family of seven chil- dren: Cora, who was born in New York, was mar- ried, November 28,' 1877, to Jacob L. Miller, a far- mer of Pella Township; David S., who was born in La Salle County, was married, February 1.5, 1882 to Minnie McLean, and resides in Seward County, Neb.; Warren, born in La Salle County, was mar- ried, on Christmas Day of 1888, to Cora A. Serine, in Randalia, Iowa, and resides in Fayette County, that State; AViliiam, born in DeKalb County, led to the marriage altar Miss Edith Geary, on the 28th of February, 1890, and is living in Seward, Neb.; Curtis J., who was born in Livingston County, and follows fanning in Mona Township, married Virginia Thompson, who died February 24, 1892; Alma I., who was born in Livingston County, is keeping house for Curtis; Lewis S., who w.as born in Ford County, is still on the home farm with his parents; Seth, the eldest child, who was born, in DeKalb County, died in Livingston County, April 7, 18GG, at the age of nine years. The children have all been given good educa- tional advantages and thereby fitted for the practical duties of life. Fatlier and sons are all supporters of the Republican part}'. Mr. Hand and his wife have been members of the Methodist Church for man}' years and he is a charter member of the Grand Army Post of Piper Cit}', of wliich lie served as Chaplain for some years, was Adjutant and is now Past Commander. He is also a member of the Masonic fraternity. He has served as Clerk of Pella Townshij) for about fourteen years, was Com- missioner of Highways and Drainage Commis- sioner, has been Treasurer of the Fair Association for seven years, and is serving his second term as a director of the Brenton and Pella Fire Insurance Company. No man h.as done more for the drain- age interests of the county than our subject and no other enterprise has aided so greatly in im- proving and developing the count}-. INIr. Hand has frequently served as delegate to the county and State conventions of his party, and in 1887 was policeman in the Capitol during the Thirty- fifth General Assembly. The community find in him a valued citizen and a public-spirited and progressive man, who has ever liorne his share in the upbuilding of town and county. He is highly esteemed liy all who know him as a man of sterling wt)rtli, and well deserves representation in this volume. ■^ OHN GOODMAN, who is living a retired life in Kempton, claims England as the land of his nativity. He was born in Hunting- tonshire, on the 6th of July, 1818, and is a son of William and Mary (Russell) Goodman, who were also natives of England. Both parents are now deceased. The mother died in 182.5, and the father survived her only about three years, pass- ing away in 1828. In their family were four chil- dren, the eldest of whom is our subject; Sarah is now deceased; William died in infancy; Mary is the wife of William Hall and resides in Nebraska. The subject of this sketch was born and reared upon a farm, and the educational advantages wiiich he received were those afforded by the com- mon schools. Left an orjihan at an early age, he started out in life for himself when a lad of ten summers, and did general work or anything he could find to do in order to provide for his own maintenance. At length, he determined to try his fortune in America and sailed for New York, where he arrived after a voyage of one inonth. He made his first settlement in Erie County, Ohio, where he worked as a farm hand PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPIUCAL RECORD. 703 bj' the month until 1856. In that year he came to Forrl County, III., and located in Brenton Township, where he purchased eighty .acres of railroad land at 88 per .acre. Piper City at that time had not been founded and the nearest trading point was Onarga, twelve miles aw.ay. Mr. Goodman was united in marriage, March 17, 1852, to Miss Sarah Bellamy, daughter of Sam- uel and Susan Bellamy. Four children graced their union, as follows: Susie, wife of .Joseph Mc- Kinney, who died in .January, 1885; William, a hardware merchant residing in Kempton; Samuel, a dealer in hardware in Caber^-, 111.; and Sophia, wife of .lohn Herron, who resides in Kempton. After purchasing his farm in Brenton Town- ship, Mr. (ioodman turned his attention to its care and cultivation, and made it one of the desirable places of the cunimunity. He there continued to reside until 1882, when he removed to Piper City. The succeeding eight years of his life were there passed, and in 1890 became to Kempton, where he has since lived retired. In politics, he is a sup- porter of Republican principles, and, in religious belief, is a Methodist. His name li.as been an index to his character, and his honorable, upright life has won him the high regard of all with whom he has been Ijrought in contact. He is numbered among the early settlers of the community, his residence in the county covering a period of thirty-six years. He has, therefore, watched the greater part of its growth and development, and he has aided in its advancement and upbuilding, doing all in his power to promote its best interests. =^>-^v ''1 ^^.^ g4.^ 'A diY^ GvC^.i%^cS^^ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 711 his present farm in 1874, which was his first pur- chase of land. He became owner of one hundred and sixty acres on section 13, and has since engaged in its cultivation and development, his labors hav- ing made it one of the desirable places of the town- ship. He has given some attention to public duties, having served his township as Palhmaster, School Director and Township Trustee, and two years as a member of the County Board of Supervisors. In |)olitics, he is independent, voting for the man whom he thinks best qualified for the office, re- gardless of party affllintions. Socially, he is a member of the Odd Fellows' fraternity. Mr. Il.agin is recognized as one of the leading citizens of the community. He is public-spirited and pro- gressive, and takes an active interest in all that pertains to the welfare of the community and its u|ibuilding. He has long been a resident of Ford Couut3', and has been an eye-witness of its entire growth. ULLIAM J. WILSON, President of the \/i\/li Pi'ivate banking house of Mattinson, Wil- '^' son it Co., of Gibson City, III., is a jia- tivc of Clarke County, Ohio, and was born on the 2'.itli of June, 1838. His parents, Washington and Mary A. (Forman) Wilson, were from Ohio. His father's birth occurred on the 18th of Octo- ber, 18 11, near F'airfield, Greene County, and the mother was born in Clarke Count}'. They were married May 22, 1836, and lived together as hus- band and wife for nearly half a century, when called to their final rest. Washington Wilson died at his home in Springfield, Ohio, on Sunday, April 26, 1885, at the age of seventy-three years and seven months. His wife passed away on the 5th of Ma_v following, surviving her husband only nine d.ays. They had joined the Christian Church together in 1839, and remained worthy and con- sistent members of that soeietj' to the close of their lives. It is said of them that the}' were re- markably adapted to each other and were pos- sessed of noble traits of character. Michael AVilson, the father of Washington Wil- 29 son, was a soldier of the War of 1812, and died soon after his return from the war from the effects of exposure while in the service. His widow re- moved to Harmony Township, and later made her home with her son Washington in Springfield, where she died in 1880, at the advanced age of ninety-two years. Washington and Mary A. Wilson were the [)ar- ents of eleven children: ISIichael, AVilliani .J., George W., Harrison, John, Addison; Luther, de- ceased: Nancy T., Harriet; Mary A., deceased, was the wife of Dr. Strain; Flora is now Mrs. Dr. Clarence Kay. Michael and Addison reside in Springfield, Ohio; George W., who was State Sen- ator, makes his home in London, Ohio; Harriet is a resident of London, Ohio; Nancy T. is the wife of John J. Goodfellow; Harrison is a farmer of Madison County, Ohio, and .lohn resides in Gib- son City. Wiishington Wilson made his home in Spring- field at an early day. He was industrious and frugal, and accumulated a large landed estate, hav- ing nearly two thousand acres of land near Spring- field at the time of his death. lie was one of the prime movers in the organization of the Christian Church in Springfield, and was one of its officers and most earnest supporters. As a Christian, he was Biblically orthodox, and practically evangelical, with charity for all. He was active as a speaker and worker in church, prayer meetings and Sun- day-school, and his hospitality to the ministers was liberal and much partaken of. He was noted for steadfastness of purpose, a broad Christian spirit and for his efforts to do good in his commu- nity and to encourage and develop a true Chris- tian spirit in those who came within the range of his influence. The sterling qualities of this worthy man and his estimable wife, which gave them such high standing in their community, have had their intluence in forming the character of their children, who have become useful and worthy members of society. William J. Wilson was reared to agricultural pursuits and was educated in the public schools of Springfield, Ohio. On the 17th of September, 1863, he was married, in his native county, to Miss Lydia Goodfellow, a daughter of John and 712 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Lucy (Bennett) Goodfellow. autl a native of Clarke County, Ohio. On attaining man's estate, Mr. Wilson engaged in farming near bis old home, and continued in that vocation until 1875, when he embarked in the grocery business at London, Ohio. In 1876, he sold out and removed to Gibson City, 111., and engaged in the grain trade, which he conducted successfully until the burning of his elevator. On coming to Gibson Citj^, Mr. Wilson invested in farming lands in Ford County, and has increased his acreage until he now owns fifteen hundred acres of agricultural lands, which are situated partly in the following counties: Ford, Vermilion and Lee. Two years after he settled in Gibson City, Mr. Wilson became a partner in the bank- ing house now carried on under the firm title of Mattinson, Wilson & Co., the oldest bank in the city, and has maintained partnership relations with that institution continuouslj' since. In addition to the business interests already mentioned, Mr. Wil- son has done an extensive business in growing, bujing, feeding and shipping live stock. He is also a member of the Gibson Canning Company, of which he is Vice-President. Ten children were born to Jlr. and Mrs. AVil- son, three sons and six daughters now living: Minnie B. is the wife of Evan Mattinson. of the banking house of Mattinson, Wilson tk Co.; Luther B. is engaged in the real-estate business in Dixon, 111.; Cora May resides with her parents; Lucy F. is the wife of Albert Browning, a farmer of Drummer Township; William J., Jr.; Mar}' Maud, Grace, Mabel and Arthur Glenn. One died in infancy. In politics, Mr. Wilso)i is a Republican, but has never sought or desired public office. In their religious views, Mr. AVilson, his wife and older children are Presbyterians, and he is a member of the Board of Trustees of that church. The chil- dren older than Mary Maud were born in Clarke County, Ohio, while she and those younger are natives of Gibson City. Since his residence at Gibson City, Mr. Wilson has been actively and prominently identified with its commercial and financial interests, and it is no flattery to sa}- of him that his record has been that of a man of strict integrity, enterprise and abil- itJ^ In his business career he has been eminently successful, and has succeeded in accumulating a large and valuable property, while his uniformly upright course iu life and just regard for the rights of others have entitled him to a place in the foremost ranks of the most respected and worthy citizens of Ford County. =^. "N— =«-••• ^ E WITT C. WOODRUM, who owns and operates one hundred and sixty acres of valuable land on section 20, Dix Township, is one of the leading agriculturists of the commu- nity, and a well-known and prominent citizen. His life record is as follows: He was born in Shasta County, Cal., October 5, 1855, and is one of two children born unto Clinton and Nancj' H. (Bfass- field) Woodrum. The father was a native of Illi- nois and the mother of Indiana, and both were of English descent. They had two children, but the other is now deceased. After Mr. Woodrum 's death, his widow was married, in 1865, to AVilliam D. Lowden, who was a native of Ilarrisburg, Pa., and of German descent. Two children were born of that union. Mr. Lowden died in 1874. The mother of our subject is now the wife of H. J.' Adams, a retired farmer residing in Marshall County, HI. Mr. AVoodrum whose name heads this i-ecord spent the greater part of his boyhood da^'s in tliis State. He acquired a good classical education in the schools of Marshall County, and, at an early age, began to earn his own livelihood. He may truly be called a self-made man, for he began for himself without means. For a time, he worked as a farm hand by the month, and from his meagre earnings saved enough to purchase property. Stej) by step he has worked his way upward, overcom- ing all difficulties and obstacles in his path, until he now has a comfortable competence. His farm of one hundred and sixty acres is a highly-culti- vated tract of land and well improved with good buildings and all the accessories of a model farm. On the 1st of December, 1876, Mr. AVoodrum PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 713 was united in marriage with Miss Adeline Wood, a native of Illinois and a daughter of Girard and Hannah (Williams) Wood. Iler parents were na- tives of Indiana and were of English extraction. By this union were born two children, daughters, but Nina is now deceased. Edna is still with her parents. Mr. and Mrs. Woodrum rank high in so- cial circles. Their home is the abode of hospitality and tlieir friends throughout the community are many. In his political affiliations, he is a Demo- crat, and has held the office of School Director and Road Commissioner. («1 I»ILL1AM MILLER, M. IX, a prominent \/\/f phj'sician and druggist of Cabery, is a na- ^^^ tive of Pennsylvania. He was born in Faj-ette County, October 28, 1859, and is a son of Dr. G. M. Miller, llis father was born in West- moreland County, Pa., and after attaining to ma- ture years married Miss Rebecca J. Shroyer, a na- tive of Fa3'ette County. Ilewasamanof superior education and a prominent ph3'sician iu Fayette County for a number of years. He removed to the West in 1871, locating in La Salle County, 111., upon a farm where he made his home until his death, which occurred in .Tune, 1871). Ho took quite a prominent part in political affairs, support- M;. ing the Republican part^^ but was never an aspirant ^ for office. His wife survives him and resides on the old homestead in La Salle Count}'. Our subject is one of a family of four sons and five daughters, all of whom grew to mature years and are yet living. The Doctor received a good . education at the public and High Schools, and wish- ing to enter the medical profession, he began study- ing with his father. He was afterwards in the oHiee of Dr. R. F. Dyer of Ottawa, and subscquonll}' took a course of lectures in the Rush Medical Col- lege of Chicago, from which he was graduated in 1884. He then located in Cabery in April of that year and began the practice of his chosen profes- sion, which he has since followed with excellent success. On the 30th of October, 1886, the Doctor was joined in wedlock with Miss Alice Clayton, daugh- ter of William Clayton, now deceased. The lady was reared and educated in Ford County. Two children grace their union: Hazel and young Doc. The parents, who are most estimable people, rank high in social circles and have the respect of all who know them. In 1885, Dr. Miller embarked in the drug busi- ness and now carries a large stock of drugs, medi- cines, paints, oils, wall paper, notions, etc. By fair treatment and courteous dealing he has secured a liljeral patronage, of which he is well deserving. He stands in the front rank among his professional brethren, his skill and ability being widely ac- knowledged. In his political affiliations, the Doc- tor is a Republican, having been identified with that party since he cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. Garfield. He has taken quite an active part in local political affairs and has served as a member of the Town Board, and of the Central Committee for four years. He is a public-spirited and progressive citizen, who gives his hearty sup- port to any enterprise calculated to promote the general welfare, and the cause of education finds in him a warm friend. He is a man of upright, ster- ling character, who well deserves representation in this volume. 'jl7 EWIS ALD, an enterprising and highly re- I (^ spected farmer residing on section 19, Dix /I'— ^Vi Township, has the honor of being a native of Illinois. His birth occurred in Woodford County, on the 22d of September, 1846. His par- ents, Henry J. and Minnie (Ristine) Aid, were both natives of Germany. They had a family of seven children, five sons and two daughters: Minnie, William, llenrj-, Charles, Lev/is, Kate and Christ. No event of special importance occurred during the childhood of our subject. He was reared in the usual manner of farmer lads, aiding in the labors of the farm during the summer months, while in the winter season he attended the district schools, where he acquired a good English educa- 714 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRArHICAL RECORD. tion. He remained with his parents until he ar- rived at man's estate and tlien started out in life for himself, working as a farm liand by the month for a short time. He then rented land and con- tinued to malve his home in the county of his na- tivity until 1874, with the exception of one year, when he made his liome in Champaign County, 111. He came to Ford County in 1874, and lo- cated in Dix Township, renting land until 1882, when he purchased his |)resent home — a, good farm of eighty acres situated on section 19. The land is now under a high state of cultivation and tlie place is well improved. The well-tilled fields in- dicate the thrift and enterprise of the owner, and the neat appearance of the farm gives evidence of the supervision of a careful manager. In 1874, Mr. Aid led to the marriage altar Miss Emma Thomas, a daughter of Joim and Eliza Thomas and a most estimable lad}'. Three children have been born of their union, one sou and two daughters, and tlie family- circle j'et remains un- broken. In order of birth, they are as follows: Ida, Minnie and Clarence. The Aid household is a hospitable one and the members of the family hold a high rank in the social circles in which they move. In his political atliliations, Mr. Aid is a Repub- lican, having supported that party since attaining his majority. lie has never been an office-seeker, liowever, preferring to devote his attention ex- clusively to his business interests. His entire life has been passed in Illinois and he is a public- spirited and progressive citizen of Ford County. ^ ESSE G. BARKER is the owner of one of the fine farms of Dix Township, located on section 31. He was born in Newport, R. I., !^W on the 12th of April, 1837, and is the eldest child of Abraham and Sophronia (Gould) Barker. They had five children, the other members of the family being Mar3^ who became the wife of George Manchester, and died in 1873; Victoria L., wife of Abraham Reed, a carpenter by trade, residing in Massachusetts; Frank, an insurance and land agent living in Washington, D. C; Ellen, who makes her home in Fall River, Mass. Tlie father of this fam- ily died in 1877, but the mother is still living in Fall River, Mass. Our subject is a self-made man, whose life in many respects is well worthy of emulation. At the early age of nine years, he began to earn his own liveliliood, working upon a farm. He received only $3 for his first montli's work. He afterward worked at the blacksmith's trade for two years. The year 1857 witnessed his emigration to Illinois. In the autumn of that year, he located in Dix Township, Ford County, where he resumed farm work by the month and was tlius employed until the breaking out of the late war. Mr. Barker had watched with interest the pro- gress of events in the South. It was soon seen that the war was to be an affair of more import- ance than was at first thought, and on the 15th of August, 1861, he enlisted as a member of Company (i, Tliirty-seventh Illinois Infantry. The regi- ment was mustered into service at Chicago, and thence went to the front. Mr. Barker participated in the battle of Pea Ridge, was afterward in the siege of Vicksburg, and participated in many other engagements and skirmishes. After serving faith- fully for three j^ears, he was honorably discharged on the 4th of October, 18G4, and went to Cham- paign County, 111., but on the 4th of February following, he again entered the service as a mem- ber of Company K, One Hundred and Fiftieth Illinois Infantry. He received his final discharge .lanuary 30, 1866. He was a faithful soldier, ever found at his post of dut}-, loyal to the cause un- der whose banner he fought. On his return to the North, Mr. Barker located in Champaign County, but soon afterward came to Ford County, and began the improvement of his eighty-acre tract of land on section 31, Dix Town- ship. He had purchased this property in 1861, and it has since been his home, but the boundaries of his farm have been greatlj' extended as his finan- cial resources have increased. He now owns two hundred and sixty-two acres, a part of which lies in Champaign Count}'. The entire farm is under cultivation and the well-tilled fields and manj' im- provements upon the place indicate the thrift and y^^.<^Uw POETRATT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 717 enterprise of the owner who is one of the substan- tial citizens of tlie community. On the 1st of ISIarch, 1867, Mr. Barker was uni- ted in marriage with Miss Rachel A. AVood, born in Ft. Wayne, Ind., April 14, 1816, a daughter of Noah and Rachel (Oliver) Wood. They aie the ])arenls of ten children, as follows: F'rances L., (4oorge A., Charles W., Anna, Nellie, Mary Alta; William and Winnie, twins; Lula J., and Elsie R. In bis political affiliations, Mr. Barker is a Repub- lican; in religions belief, is a Methodist, as is also his wife, and in his social relations he is an Odd Fel- low, and a member of Lott Post No. 70, G. A. R., of Gibson. His success in life has all been due to his own efforts. Since his tenth 3ear he has made his own way in the world and b.y his enterprise and perseverance has worked his way upward to success. —J ^-^^,1 Mi>^^ty-handedbut is now numbered among the substantial citizens of Dix Township. V ♦^*^* / ILLIAM T. DURHAM, a member of the Ijl firm of Durham l'>rothers, bankers of Piper City, and a prominent young business man, was born in Parke County,! nd., on the 2(lth of May, 18.58, and is a son of David Durliam. His paternal grandfather, Daniel Durham, removed from Ken- tuck3' to Terre Haute, Ind., in an early day. David Durham was born in Kentuck}' and was reared to manhood in Indiana as a farmer. lie afterwards removed to Kankakee, 111., wliere his death occur- red, after which his wife went with lier family to Iroquois County, in 1868, in order to educate her children in the Grand Prairie Seminary. William's motlier's maiden name was Lucy A. Harris, a daugliter of one of the most prominent physicians of Richmond, Va., Dr. Thomas Harris. , Mr. and Mrs. David Durham wore married in Indiana. In politics, he was an earnest Republican and was a very successful business man. There are seven children in the family, three sons and four daughters. The three brothers have two banks, one at Onarga and one at Piper City. Benjamin H. and P^zra D. reside at Onarga and William T. at Piper City. Our subject was quite young when his p.arents left Indiana and removed to Illinois. He there spent live j-ears upon a farm near Kanka- kee, before the family removed to Onarga. He attended the pulilic school and seminary at Onarga and graduated at Commercial College. When his education was finished, he entered upon his life work, becoming connected witti the bank of Onarga, where he remained until April, 1888, when lie and his brothers purchased the bank of George Camp- l)ell in Piper City, and since tliat time Mr. Durliam h.as had charge of the bank at this place, wliile liis brothers conduct the one at Onarga. On the ■i.'UI of August, 188(!, INIr. Durliam was united in marriage with Miss .Josie Ward, their union being celebrated in Onarga. She was edu- cated in the same school as her husband and her family are old residents of Onarga. Her father and niotlier, lioth formerly from West Virginia, are now residing in California. Mr. and Mrs. Durham are prominent young people of this community, being widely and favoralily known, .and are held in high regard by a large circle of friends. Mrs. Durham is a member of the Methodist Church and is promi- nent in both musical and church circles. Mr. Dur- ham was reared as a member of the Society of Friends. He cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. Garfield and has never been an office-seeker. He is a careful business man, enterprising and sagacious, and has been very successful in his bank- ing business. 1^+^ [^_ [=~ ellARLES CURD resides on section 20^ Rogers Township. To the record of tlie old settlers of Ford County we wish to add the sketch of Mr. Curd, who is recognized as one of the substantial farmers and honored citizens of the community'. He was born in Kent, England, in 1833. His father, John Curd, was also born in Kent and there wedded ISIary Town. He was a farmer by occupation and spent his entire life in his native land. Our subject passed his boyhood d.ays upon his father's farm, and when a j-oung m.an emigrated to the New World, crossing tlie Atlantic about 18.50. He spent about four years in the State of New York, working upon a farm. He came to Illinois in the spring of 1860, making his first location in Lisbon, where he worked by the month for alxiut three years. He then determined to engage in busi- ness for himself and rented land in Kendall County, where he engaged in farming for about four years. Mr. Curd was married in Kendall Count)- to Miss Lucy Scott, a native of Oneida County, N. Y. Re- moving to Iroquois County, he rented a farm near Chebanse, and eng.aged in its cultivation for seven years. On coming to Ford County, he bought land in Rogers Township — an improved farm of two 720 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. hundred acres. Since tliat time lie has sold forty acres, still owning a valuable tract of one hundred and sixty acres, which is pleasantly situated within two miles of Cabery. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Curd has been blessed with four children: Lucy, who is now the wife of John Smith, a farmer of Rogers Township; Libbie D. at homo; William A., who aids his father in the cultivation of the homo farm; .and Mary, who died in 1883, at .about the age of tiiree jears. Mr. Curd began life for himself empty-handed, but he determined to win success, and overcoming the v.arious obstacles in his path, he has worked his w.a3' upward until he is now numbered among the substanti.al .agriculturists of the community. In politics, he is identified with the Republican party but has never been an office-seeker, preferring to devote his entire time and attention to his business interests, in wliich he h.as met with signal success. He is a man of unblemished character and sterling worth and he and his estimable wife have the high regard of a large circle of friends and acquaintances. z^ C^^^y^^^^^yu^ ^/^^^^cA^ 'A ' L^C^C'CCC^^^i^-tyO' -O PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD 725 member of the Knights of Pythias fraternity. Mr. Harry deserves not a little credit for the industry, perseverance and business (Hialities he has dis- played. 'ill AMES H. ANDREWS is a prominent agri- culturist of Ford County, residing on sec- tion 33, and is the owner of a model farm J in Wall Township. He has the honor of being a native of Illinois, his birth having occurred in Marshall County, on the 25111 of September, 1857. In the family of eight children, he was the seventh. His parents, Capt. Harmoud and Eliza (Peterson) Andrews, are mentioned in the sketch of 15. C. Andrews, on another page of this work. Our subject acquired his education in the com- mon schools and there laid the foundation for the success which cliaracterized his after life. At the age of seventeen, he started out in life for himself, and has since made his own way in the world. He had a small capital, which he increased by his in- dustry, economy and perseverance, until he is now numbered among the substantial citizens of the community. He is a sagacious and far-sighted business man, of good executive ability, and well deserves the success which has crowned his efforts^ Mr. Andrews led to the marriage altar Miss Phcebe Agnes Darby, daughter of Solomon and Emily (Ueed) Darby. Her father, a native of Ohio, w.as born Octolier 4, 1827, and is still living. Througlunit his entire life, he has followed the occupation of farming. In politics, he is a sup- porter of Democratic princiijles. Mrs. Darby, who was born November 23, 182!), died on the IGth of February, 1880. Mrs. Andrews was born on the 18th of April, 1857, in Peoria County, 111., but the days of her maidenhood were si)eut in Marshall County, where she acquired her education in the common schools. The marriage of our siilijcct and his wife was celebrated January 10, 187s, and has been blessed with four children, two sons and two daughters, three of whom are yet living: Harry N., aged twelve years, is attending the public schools and is a bright lad in his studies; James F. is now seven years of age; Jennie, who was a bright little girl and the light of the household, died at the age of three years, one month and twenty-eight daj^s; and Edna M., aged nineteen months, is the pet of the family. Mr. Andrews has been a resident of Wall Town- shipsmce 1881, and is now the ownerof a valuable farm of two hundred and forty .acres, including some of the (inest land in that township. The home is a beautiful frame residence and the well- trimmed hedges, the rich and fertile fields, and other improvements, make it one of the most beau- tiful estates in this locality. In politics, Mr. An- drews is a stanch supporter of Republican princi- ples, having alHliated with that party since he cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. James A. Gar- field. For two years, he has held the oflice of Highway Commissioner and has also served as School Director, but has never been an office-seeker, preferring to devote his whole time and attention to his business interests, in which he has met with signal success. He has a wide circle of friends and acquainiances throughout this community and this sketch of his life will lie received with interest by many of the prominent citizens of Ford County, where he is so favorably known. 4^ — ^ "^ OHN P. GRANGER, who is engaged in gen- eral farming on section 25, Dix Township, where he h.as made his home for twenty- one years, is a native of the Empire State. He W.1S born in Saratoga, November 29, 1H22, and traces his ancestry back to the Pilgrim forefathers, who came over to this country in the "Mayflower." His parents were Rosel and Sarah (Bussing) Granger. They had a family of five children: Harmon, now residing in Hillsdale, Mich.; Sidney, a carpenter, who makes his home in Howard City, Mich.; John P. of this sketch; .losiali, a wagon maker, who follows his trader in Hacine, Wis.; and Francis, deceased. The father of this family died in 1832, at an earl}' age. His wife long survived him, i)assing away in 188;>. 726 i'OETRAlT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. Mrs. Granger after the death of ]ier husband re- moved to the home of her father in ISIontgomery County, N. Y., where our subject spent his boy- hood days. He attended the common schools un- til about eigliteen years of age, and then started out in life for himself, since which time lie has made his own way in tlie world. For about five years, he was employed in a tannery and tlien worked at carpentering and in a cliair factory. In 1869, he liecame a resident of Toledo, Ohio, where he was employed in a chair factor3- for two years. He then resumed his Westward journey and in 1871 located in Ford County, 111., purchasing eighty acres of land on section 25, Dix Township, where he has since made his home. He has added forty acres I)y purchase. Mr. Granger was married, vVpril 20, 1848, to Miss Julia A. Ilawes, a daughter of Cornelius and Phffibe Hawes. One child has been born unto them, a daughter, Kittie jVI., wife of Wallace J. Woods, a farmer wlio now resides in Dix Town- ship. Mr. and Mrs. Granger are well-known people of this community and tlieir sterling wortli and many excellencies of character liave won them higii regard. In politics, Mr. (iranger is a Republican, liaving supported that party for many years. Both he and his wife arc I'.aptists in religious faith. lie is a gof)d farmer, industrious and energetic, and all of his possessions stand as monuments to his thrift and enterprise, for they have been .acquired through his own etforts, .as he had to begin life empty- handed. -■u->to, -I II , i "^ OSEPII RICHMOND, who is engaged in the drug business in Elliott, was born in Dar- lington, Durham County, England, Novem- ber 8, 1828, and is one of nine children, wht)se parents were William and Ilaiiiiah (Tees- dale) Richmond. Both were natives of the same locality- as our subject, and both are now deceased. The father died in 1850, and the mother, who sur- vived him for a quarter of a century, [lassed away in 1876. They had a family of nine children: Elizabeth, widow of .John Copley, a printer and book-seller, residing in Thompsonville, Conn.; John, who was a shoemaker by trade, died in IS'.ll; William died after reaching manhood; Thomas is living a retired life in Thompsonville, Conn.; Anna is the wife of Samuel Mulligan, a resident of Penn- sylvania; Joseph is the next younger; David died in 1852; Jane A. is the widow of Tiiomas Parkes, an engineer living in New York City; and Harry makes his home in Elliott. The educational advantages afforded our suliject were very limited. He began to earn his own live- liiiood at the age of eleven, securing employment in a brick and tile factoiy, where he worked for five years. He then went to Halifax, Yorkshire, England. Entering a printing office, he spent two years in that cit}\ Not content with the educa- tion he had acquired, he then attended the Normal School, located in Darlington, England, for one year, after which he accepted the position offered him by the Joseph Pease Company as land sur- veyor and clerk in a drug store. Thus he gained his first knowledge of drugs. He remained with tiiat firm until 1852, when he determined to seek a home in America and crossed the broad Atlantic. He first located in Brooklyn, N. Y., where he entered the employ of the Lake P^rie A Western Railroad Com|)aiiy in the freight department. In 18G1, he left that employ and engaged with the Adams Express Company as a clerk, which posi- tion he filled until 1875, That year witnessed his removal to Illinois. He first settled in Rantoul, Champaign County, but after a few months came to Elliott, Ford County, and embarked in the drug business, which he has since carried on with good success. Mr. Richmond has been twice married. On the 17th of May, 1860, he wedded Miss Ellen Pritch- ard, daughter of Owen and Alice Pritchard. She died Ma}' 14, 1882, and her remains were interred in the Rantoul Cemetery. Our subject was .again married, December 27, 1883, his second unicm be- ing with Miss Louise Lewis. They have aple.as.ant home in Elliott. Mr. Richmond is a s.agacious and enterprising business man and has built up an ex- cellent trade. In politics, he is a Democrat and served .as Postmaster during President Cleveland's PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 727 administration, but has never been a politician in the sense of ottice-seeking. Sociallj', lie is a member of the Masonic fraternity. ^ AMIiS DYSERT, who is eng.igerl in general farming on section 19, Drummer Township. is numliered among the early settlers of Ford County of 18.57. The count\' was then a part of Vermilion County. lie was horn in Wayne County, Ohio, on the 23r(l of May, 182fi, and is a son of .John and Elizabeth (ISIcFillen) Dysert, both of whom were natives of Westmore- land County, Pa. Their marriage was celebrated in 1822, and unto them were born six children: r.enjamin, born .lune 22, 1824, died Aiiril 17, 180.3; Mary .J., born March 27, 1827, resides in Cham- paign County, 111.; the next child died in infanc3-; Margaret, born .Jul}' 20, 1833, is the wife of .John Nicewander, of Champaign County; Elizabeth, born .January- Ifi, 1836, is the wife of Thomas Davis, of La Fayette, Ind. The parents of this family were pioneer settlers of Wajne County, Ohio, where tlicy resided for more than fort}' years. In 18.t9, they came to Ford County, III., where they spent the remainder of their lives. The mother died October 17, 1861, but the father long survived, passing away in West Point, Ind., September 5, 1887, at an advanced age. Mr. Dysert whose name heads this record ac- quired a common-school education in his nali\o county, and began life for himself on attaining his majority. Renting a farm in Logan County, Ohio, he there engaged in farming. On the 31st of Au- gust, 1855, he led to the marriage altar Miss Maiy E. McFarland, a native of Champaign County, Ohio, born March 27, 1837. Her parents were Jesse B. and Elizabeth (Yeazel) McFarland, the former a native of Virginia, and tiie latter of Kentucky. Mrs. Dj-sert had three brothers: 'Robert is married, and resides in Kansas City, Mo., where he is suc- cessfully engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery; .Jesse B. is married and follows farming in Oklahoma; William was a physician, but is now deceased. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Dysert have been born five children, three of whom are yet living. The eld- est, Annie, born March 11, 1857. is the wife of Al- fred Woodruff, a resident farmer of Union County, Iowa; Cora, born February 21, 1860, became the wife of Joseph Stevenson, and died March 16, 1886; Love J., born September 22, 1862, gave her hand in marriage to J. Jennings, a resident of Da- kota; Alice, born December 10, 1864, became the wife of Isaac N. Hilem.an, and died October 29, 1891; and .Jesse W., born November 6, 1867, com- pletes the family. Upon their marriage, Mr. Dysert removed with his bride to McLean County, 111., in the fall of 1855, where he spent two years engaged in farm- ing, and then in 1857 came to Ford County, locat- ing upon the farm which is now his home. He here owns a neat and comfortable home .and well-tilled farm, and the rich and fertile fields yield to him a golden tribute for his care .and cultivation. His land is highly iminoved, and he is regarded as one of the representative agriculturists of this commu- nity. He and his wife are members of the United Brethren Church, and Mr. Dysert affiliates with the Democratic party. He manifested his loyalty to the Government during the late war by enlisting, on the 26th of Septemlier, 1864, as a member of Com- pany B, Eighth minois Infantry, for one year's service, and was honoralil}- discharged on the 6th of October, 1865. In the army he contracted a disease from which he has never yet recovered, and now receives a pension, lie is a valued citizen of the community, and takes a dee^i interest in all that pertains to the general welfare or the advance- ment of the count}-. <« MLLIAM II. BO WEN, a dealer in grocer- \^// '^^' S. Dak. lie is a farmer, (leorge is engaged in farm- ing in Kansas, and is m;irre(l to Miss Mary Lacke}'. Both of Mrs. Shilts' parents are dead. She is a mem- ber of the United IJreUiren Churcli, of Elliott, HI., and is a kind and genial lady, who has been a valu- able helpmate to her husband. She graiihically tells that she has driven her cows, when a girl of fifteen, over the site of Melvin, when not a house was to be seen. Elliott, Gibson, Melvin, Sible}' and Roberts were not known when Mrs. Shilts first removed to Ford County. Mr. and Jlrs. Shilts arc truly pioneer citizens of Ford County, and their excellent life sketch will be read by many hundreds of the present citi- zens of Ford County who well know them for their sterling worth and integrity'. d****^ '****'^ ^ OIIN D. BELL, who is engaged in general farming on section 30, Dix Township, is numbered among the honored pioneer set- tlers of the county', having been identified with its liistor>' since 1857. He was born in West- moreland, England, November 22, 181'.), and is a son of S.amuel and Elizabeth Bell. Our subject is the eldest of their children; William died in Law- rence, Mass.; Elizabeth is also deceased; Thomas died on reaching manhood; Sarah is the wife of David Metcalf, a resident farmer of Dix Township; Samuel isengaged in agricultural pursuits in Wall Township; Emma is the wife of James iMills, a resident of Mass.achusetts; and one child died in infancy. John Bell, whose name heads this sketch, ac- quired a common-school education in his native land and at the age of fourteen was apprenticed for seven years to learn the trade of tailoring and upholstering. He served the entire term and be- came an excellent workman in that line. When a j'oung man of twenty-four years, he determined to try his fortune in America, of whose advantages and privileges he had heard such favorable re- ports. In 1841, he sailed from Liverpool, the vessel dropping anchor in the harbor of New York after a voyage of thirty d;iys. His first location was made in Providence, R. I., where he secured a position in a calico- |)rinting factory. After five years spent in that line, he removed to Globe Village, Tiverton, R. I., where he was engaged as clerk and time-keeper until 1857. Emigrating to the West, he then became a resident of what was then Vermilion, but is now Ford, County. Pur- chasing seventy acres of railroad land, he began the development of a farm, u|)on which he has since resided. His nearest trading point in those days was Prospect City, or Paxton, as it is now called. His land was still in its primitive condi- tion, but his energy and industry have transformed it into a rich and fertile farm. On the Uth of May, 1846, Mr. Bell wedded Miss Alice Sunderland, daughter of Daniel and Nanc^- (Slocum) Sunderland. Six children have been born unto them: Samuel, who died in in- fancy; Elizabeth, wife of William Lewis; James, who died in 1878; William A. D., a resident of Idaho; George, who follows farming .and resides with his parents on the old homestead; and one child who died in infancy. During the late war, Mr. Bell responded to the country's call for troops, enlisting on the 30th of December, 18G3, as a private in the Chicago Mer- cantile IJattery. His first active eng.agement was at Sabine Cross Roads, after which he participated in many other battles and skirmishes. On the clo.se of the war, he received his discharge, July 9, 18G5, and returned to his home, since which time he h.as been engaged in carrying on general farming. As a result of the exposure and hardships of army life, he lost the sight of one eye. He has led a busy, useful life, yet has found time to devote to public interests. He served as the first Clerk of Dix Town- ship, and held the office for sixteen years. He was also Highway Commissioner, Constable, Col- lector, Assessor, and was one of the first School Trustees. The duties of these various offices were ever discharged with promptness and fidelity. 732 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. and he is always true to every trust reposed in bim. In politics, lie is a stanch advocate of Repub- lican principles, and, sociall^^ he is a member of Lott Post No. 70, G. A. R,, of Gibson. Both he and his wife are Christian people and attend the Presbyterian Church. / *^-5^ jEORGE INI. WOODBURN, who owns and -, operates two hundred and eighty acres of >i|j land on section 28, I)ix Township, where he has made his home for thirteen years, was born in Richland County, Ohio, near Mansfield, on the 24th of May, 1838. His parents were William S. and Sarah (Maxwell) Woodburn, natives of Penn- sylvania. They emigrated from the Keystone .State to Illinois in 1857, making tiie journe}' by team, and located in Woodford Countj', where Mr. \\^0(jdliurii resided until his death. He passed away February 18, 1877, and his wife died July 27, 1874. They had a family of eight children: Agnes, wife of Henr>- l^edgewood; Charles, a farmer residing near Forest, 111.; IMar}-, deceased, wife of Marion Acres; George M. of this sketch; .James E. deceased; Jennie, deceased, wife of Henry Wilson; Matthew, a farmer residing in Kansas; and Maggie, who died in infancy. AVe now take up the personal history of Mr. Woodburn of tiiis sketch, who is a representative citizen of the community-. His education was ac- (juired in the district schools of Ohio and he was reared upon his father's farm, but wishing to fol- low some other pursuit, he learned the carpenter's trade. He was still under the parental roof, how- ever, at the breaking out of the late war. About August 14, 1862, he donned the Ijlue and marched to the front as a private of Company C, Seventy- seventh Illinois Infantry. He was mustered into service at Peoria, and with his regiment went South, participating in tlie battle of Yazoo Swamps, first attack on Yicksburg, siege and capture of Vicks- burg and Milliken Bend; he was on the Red River campaign; was on the campaign through Alabama, and on the expedition to Schreveport, during which he was in the battle of Sabine Cross Roads. He also participated in many other engagements and skirmishes and at the close of the war was honora- bly discharged, August, 18G5. AVhen the country no longer needed his services, Mr. Woodburn returned to the North and resumed work on the old homestead farm in Woodford County, where he remained until his marriage. On the mtli of November, 1871, he was joined in wedlock with INliss Martha AUender, a daughter of William B. and Mary J. Allender. Their uuion has been blessed with five children, four of whom are yet living: Godfrey F., Allender, Alta and Mabel; M^'rtle, the second child, died in infancy. Mr. Woodburn continued to reside in Woodford County until 1877, when he came to Ford County. He purchased two hundred and forty acres of land in Dix Township, upon wliich he has made his home since 187!>,and the boundaries of which he has extended until now two iiundred and eighty acres of arable land p.ay tribute to his care and cultiva- tion. The entire farm is well improved and is one of the desirable country places of the township. Its neat appearance is an index to the character of the owner, who is regarded as one of the enterpris- ing, progressive and representative agriculturists of the communit}'. In politics, he votes with the Republican party. His army record is one of which he may well be proud and his entire life has been well and worthily spent. e-^-f^i ^^\ APT. LEMUEL NEWTON BISHOP, one (l( „ of the pioneer settlers of Forfl Countj-, was ^^^/ born in Clarke County, Ohio, January 14, 1825, and is a son of John and Nancy (Welsh) Bishop. The father was born in Loudoun County, Va., on his father's plantation, where the battle of Bull Run was afterward fought, and his people all belonged to the Society of Friends. The mother was a native of Fauquier Count}', the same State, where thej^ were married, and then emigrated to Ohio, about the 3'ear 1807, settling in Clarke County, where was then an almost unbroken wilderness. In 1830, the parents removed to PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. r33 Chainpaigu County, Ohio, where they passed their last days, respected by all who knew them. Their home was tiie abode of hospitality and there the pioneer preachers alwa3-s enjoyed a iiearty welcome, and the use of the house as a place of worship. Mr. Bishop, who was an ardent Democrat in politi- cal sentiment, died in 1842, at the age of sixty-two years. The mother survived her husband about ten years, passing away in 1852, when sixty-six years of age. In their family were twelve children, of whom only three are now living. Our subject is the eleventh child in order of birth and was reared to manhood in the usual manner of farmer boys and attended the old-time log schoolhouse, where he received his primary education. This was supplemented by a course at a select school, and, being an apt pupil, he acquired a good practical education. At the age of sixteen j'ears, he began learning the carpenter's trade, serving an apprenticeshii) of three j'ears, receiving as a compensation for his laliors $6 per month and board. Having completed his trade, he turned his attention to farming, and on the breaking out of the Mexican AVar prepared to leave for the front, but, learning that Ohio's quota was full, he again resumed business. On the 8th of July, 1847, Capt. Bisliop was un- ited in marriage with Elsie A., daughter of Isaac B. and Sarah (Steere) Bradford. The former, a na- tive of Rhode Island, was a grandson of Gov. William Bradford, of Massachusetts. The mother of Mrs. Bishop was also born in Rhode Island, and was descended from Quaker stock. In 18,31, Mr. Bradfoi'd moved to Champaign County, Ohio, and twenty years later went to Van Buren C'ounty, Iowa, where he was called from this life when about the age of seventh-five 3'ears, but his wife was some seven tj'-eight years of age at the time of her death. They were among the highly respected citizens of the community where they resided, and were the parents of seven children, two of whom are still living at the present writing. Mrs. Bishop is the youngest of their family and was born in Rhode Island, on the 21st of February, 1826. Mr. Bishop went with a company to California in 1850, going by water as far as Kansas City, and then proceeding by wagons. Having continued to the sink of the Humboldt River, their teams be- ing greatly reduced, they threw aside their w.agons and everything not absolutely necessary. Pack- ing their goods on their animals, lliey went on to Nevada City, where they ai'rived after one hun- dred and four days of travel over the plains. At one time, the\' lived three days on rice and dried ai)ples. After mining for a time, Mr. Bishop was taken with rheumatism and so returned home by the Panama route, having been absent fointcen months. The same year, 1851, he came to McLean County, 111., and engaged in merchandising at Leroy for some five 3'ears, after wiiich lie carried on a farm for two 3'eais and again sold goods in Saybrook for about the same lengtli of time. Having pur- chased a farm of two hundred and l'ort3-eiglit acres near the latter place, he moved thereon in 1860. On the 9th of August, 1862, Mr. Bishop enlisted as a private for the late war. The comiiaii3' to which he belonged was to join the Ninety-fourth Illinois Infantry, l)Ut it had a full quota of captains and the members refused to join an\' regiment un- less Mr. Bishop could be their captain. The3- tiieii proposed to join the One Hundred and Seventh Regiment, but it too had a full corps of oMicers. Tiie company lacked twenty men of having enough to form, so Mr. Bishop went over the State recruiting. Several of his company vvere taken from jails, but made good soldiers. On the 30th of September, 1862, liis company was mustered into the service as Comi»an3' F, One Hundred and Sixteenth Illinois Infantry and he was chosen captain. They joined the Fifteenth Army Corps at Mem[)liis, Tenn., and he led his coini)any in tiie battle of Haines Bluff and in the capture of Arkansas Post, but resigned, April 12, 1863, on account of disability. AVhile tearing up a railroad west of Vicksburg, he re- ceived injuries from which he has never recovered. Returning to McLean County, he engaged in farming for a short time, then moved to Lerov, where he lived until 1870. Returning to iiis olc^^2.^^:n^,x^ I (17^1^^ 0(/ . ro^i£,n,i o^UL^ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 753 1879, having determined to make that profession his life work, he entered tlie medical college of Indiannpolis, Ind., where he was graduated with honor March 3, 1881. He soon afterward went to Elmwood, 111., and began the practice of medicine. After spending a year at that place, he came to Kempton, 111., where he has since made his home. On the 4th of October, 187(;, Dr. Dally was united in marriage to JMiss Rose E. Hannah, daugh- ter of William R. Hannah. Two children have been born of this union, a son and daugliter, Nora May and Homer H. In his political alliliations, the Doctor is a Re- publican but has never been an ofHce-seeker, and socially is a member of the Masonic order. In 1884, he established a drug store in Kempton, which he carries on in connection with his practice and does a good business. His skill and .ability have won him a liberal patronage, and he ranks liigh among his professional brethren of the community. The Doctor h.as a wide acquaintance, and l\y tliosc who know him lie is held in warm regard. ^^Il LRERT GILMORE, one of the e.xlen.sive ^/4jl | land-owners and prominent citizens of IL Drummer Township, residing on section 1^ 27, was born in Harrison County, Ohio, January 2(i, 1811, and is a son of Nathaniel and Mar}' (Craig) Gilmore. His grand fathers both came from Ireland. His grandfathers were among the first settlers of Harrison County, moving tiiere about 1803, and making their liome.s in Harrison County until their death. Graiidfalhcr Gilmore was a soldier in the War of 1812, and his hard service so undermined his health that he died shortly after his return. In his family were seven childTen. six of whom grew to mature years, but none are now living. The father of our subject siieut the days of his boyhood and youth in Harrison County, and in 1827 wedded JNIiss Craig, daughter of .John Craig. Twenty years later, they removed to Relmont County, where he engaged in farming and stock- raising for five years, when lie took up his resi- dence near Le Roy, McLean County, III., in 1852. His death there occurred on the 5th of November, 1855, and his remains were interred in the Gilmore Cemetery on the old homestead, where a monu- ment marks his last resting place. His wife long survived him and was called to her final rest December 21, 1884. In politics, he was a Dem- ocrat and in his business affairs was quite success- ful, leaving a handsome properly. The family numbered twelve children: Samuel and .lane E., both deceased; .lohn, a farmer of Iowa; Rachel, also deceased; Craig, who is living in Drummer Township and who is represented elsewhere in this volume; Sarah, deceased; Albert, of this sketch; William, of Dix Township; Mary A. and .lohnson, who have also passed away; one who died in in- fanc}', and Ephraim, of Champaign County. No event of special importance occurred during the childhood of our subject. His early education, •acquired in the common schools, w'as supplemented by a two-terms' attendance at the Wesleyan V-m- versity of Bloomington, 111. Throughout life, he has engaged in farming and stock-raising. He remained at home until thirty years of age, and then went to a farm of his own, upon which he lived alone for ten years. In 18(!4, with his broth- ers, .lohn, Craig and William, he came to this county and purchased sixteen hundred acres of wild land at from $4.25 to *8 per acre and began its development and cultivation. Rut he did not in.ake Ford County his place of residence until 1870. They also jiurchased six hundred acres in Chamiiaign County about 186G. In the spring of that year, four hundred acres were broken. The lirothers all worked together until 1870, when the lan \Jl UDGE HUGH P. BEACH, a lawyer of Piper City and editor and proprietor of the Pan Handle Adiinvatp, was born in a log cabin in the wilderness about thirty miles south of Cleveland, Ohio, more than fifty years ago. On the paternal side he is descended from an old family- of New .Terse}'. His grandfather, David Bc.acli. served in tlie War of the Revolution, and his grandmother was a near relative of Daniel D. Tompkins, who was prominent in the early his- tory of this country and at one time was Governor of New York, and afterward Vice-President of the United States. Moses Tompkins Be.ach, father of our subject, was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., in 1810, ajid was reared to agricultural jiursuits in that State. He married Maria Wylie Gillett, also a native of New York, but directly connected with the Gil- letts, Fullers, Phelpses, Pages, and other leading families of Hartford, Conn., and vicinity, in the early history of that State. With her he moved to the AVestern Reserve of Ohio, about 1830. Being a skillful woodsman, he cleared and im- proved several farms in that heavily-wooded sec- tion, but later in life engaged in the practice of medicine until his death. In politics, he was a Whig and afterward a Republican, and was a strong opponent of slavery. Tlie mother of our subject died when he was fourteen years of age, but to her teachings and the remembiance of her exemplary character he owes much. He was the fourth in a large family. He was early inured to hard labor on the farm but acquired a good education, for that period, for the settlers in the Western Reserve always established good schools, no matter what else had to be sac- rificed. When his mother died, he left school and began to earn his own livelihood, with no resources but his intellect and a strong determination to succeed. He had read accounts of the struggles and successes of Benjamin Franklin, and a desire was created thereby to become a printer. In the spring of 1857, the opportunity presented itself to gratify the ambition, and for the next two years he was constantly employed in that work, succes- sively in two well-appointed newspaper offices, in the course of which he passed through all gi'ades of work, from "printer's devil," to assistant in the local news department. Like manj^ others, he is indebted to this early newspaper work for much of his earlier general information in regard to public affairs. Succeeding this, a desire was aroused to become a lawyer, and accordingly, for two follow- ing years he was found under the able tutelage of two of the leading lawyers of the State, Hon. Henry Grove and Hon. J. K. Cooper (both now deceased), perusing tlie "labyrinthine intricacies" of the law, as embraced in Blackstone, Kent, and other leadiaig text-books of that department of learning. At tliat time he was a member of a lioine company of Zouaves, and when the coun- try was startled b}' the firing upon Ft. Sumpter, the services of his company were immediately ten- dered to Gov. Richard Yates, at Springfield. Not receiving any satisfaction from the Governor, they sent one of tlieir officers to Springfield to confer with him, but, such was the patriotic rush to the defense of the country. Gov. Yates replied to the effect that the applications ahead of the Zouaves were sufficient to fill the Illinois quota several times over. Nothing daunted, these determined patriots met in their armory and decided to tender their services direct to the General Government, and thereupon wired the then Secretary of War, Hon. Simon Cameron, at Washington, D. C, to that effect. Imagine their disappointment when his re|)ly came back: "Consult your Governor"! This tended to abate the ardor of their patriotism, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 755 as there was no immediate hope of their services being accepted. A good part of the compan.y re- turned to their accustomed pursuits, but others kept up the organization, and, montlis afterward, with recruited ranks, went to St. Louis, and joined the Eighth Missouri Infantry. Still engaged in the study of the law, it was not until the Govern- ment called for three hundred thousand volunteers that our subject went into actual service. Then for more than four years and a half continuously, in both Infantry and heavy artillery, he served successively in about all i)ositions from private to that of commander of his company. He was for a time Clerk in the Quartermaster's Department at New Orleans, La.; also Clerk of a Court Martial, in that city, and after his commission was a mem- ber of a Military Commission b}' appointment of Gen. Sheridan, Commander of the Dci)artment of the Gulf. He campaigned through Kentucky, Missouri, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisi- ana, and across Lake Pontchartrain, and the Gulf of Mexico. He participated in some of the most important military operations of the Mississippi Valley, under Gens. Grant, Sherman, Sheridan, Banks, McClernand, A. J. Smith, Canby, Hiirlbut, Ord, and others, and was present at the engage- ments at Ilaine's Bluff, Chickasaw B.ayou, Arkansas Post, Magnolia Hills, Grand Gulf, Port (iibson. Champion Hills, Raymond, Black River Bridge, and the siege of Vicksburg. He went on the fa- mous campaign of Gen. Banks up Red River, and the march of Gen. Gordon Granger through East- ern Mississippi in the combined movement .against Mobile, being then in command of his companj-. During the latter part of his service, he was sta- tioned successively at Ft. St. Philip, and P^t. Jackson, commanding the defenses of New Or- leans, on the Gulf coast, at the mouth of the Mis- sissippi. Through all his long and perilous service, he received only two slight wounds, but he has now in his possession his army carLridge-box which undoubtedly saved his life, as it was perforated by a ball of the enemy in an engagement, while it was drawn in front of his bodj' for convenience in loading his gun, as was the practice in a fight. While in the service and in command of his company, he raised a subscription in the company to the National Lincoln Monument at Springfield of 1715.30, and received a personal letter from Gov. Oglesby in acknowledgment of its receipt, expressed in the most complimentary terms. Just about the close of his military career, he w.as brevetted to a higher rank by the President of the United Slates, "for faithful and meritorious services," as the parchment commission states. A singular incident is connected with this. The commission was forwarded at the proper time but to the wrong post-offlce, and, i.ot being called for, was returned to the War Department, at Washing- ton. As the fact of being brevetted was unknown to the recipient of the honor, no call was made for the commission until about eighteen months ago, when, accidentally, a brother otticer in the p]ast, who knew about it, mentioned the fact in a letter. This gratifying news led to correspondence with the War Department, and the highly-[)rlzed docu- ment was forwarded by return mail, after slumber- ing in the official vaults of the Government for about twenty-four years! However, it was none the less gratefully received. Another matter relating to his military service, which also has a most grateful side to it, is the fact that no complete settlement was ever had with the Government of his accounts as an officer until this last winter (1892), when the Government found itself indebted to the .Judge several hundred dollars! While in the military service. Judge Beach wedded Mary Estelle Smith, of Louisiana, a daugh- ter of Capt. Henry Lyon Smith, of the Engineer Corps of the Regular Army, and Mrs. Armalie II. Smith, nee Hebert. Capt. Smith was a graduate of the West Point Military Academy, and for a time professor at that school. Although himself a na- tive of Maine, his military duties took him to Louisiana, where he married Armalie II. Hebert, a sister of his class-mate at West Point, Gen. Louis Hebert. The Hebcrts were a very prominent family under the old order of affairs before the war. Grand- father Vallery Hebert held a prominent position un- der Gen. Jackson at the battle of New Orleans in 1815. Paul O. Hebert was a Governor, another rep- resentative was a Speaker of the legislature, still an- other was a Superintendent of one of their railways. 756 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. while another, Mrs. Ernestine S. .Stevens, widow of the late Gen. Walter Stevens, was first librarian of the I'atent Ottice, at Washington, 1). C, and for many years since has been Librarian of tlie Depart- ment of Agriculture, which position she still holds. She is rightfully classed among the great women of the nation. Slie is Mrs. Leach's aunt. The sul)jeet of our sketch received his discharge from the army February 22, 18(w, and, with his young wife, inimediatelj' came North, locating at Piper C'it\- (then called New Lrenton), where they ariived April 111. His sister, Mrs. Mary A. Wilber, now deceased, then resided here. At Piper City he resumed the study of tiie law, and, in 187(1, was admitted to the Bar by the Supreme Court of the State, and has since practiced th.at profession. In the early histor}' of Piper City, he was elected President of the Board of Trustees, and it was during his administration that many important streets were graded, the town park, now a beauti- ful grove, was planted, and a numlier of artesian fire wells sunk in different localities, wliich latter have since saved the [ilace at least two very disas- trous conflagrations. During said term, the first flrc-engine was l)Ought, which eventually led up to the present etticient fire department service of the village. In the spring of 1873, his fcllow-town.s- mcn elected him a member of the County Board of Supervisors. In that body his advocacy of re- trenchment, economy and reform in county affairs called public attention to him, and he was the same year nominated and elected County- Judge, and was re-elected for two successive terms. lie served until December, 1886, a year having been added by an amendment to the State constitution, and it is not too much to say that he had the good-will and confidenee of the people as a just, faithful and upright Judge. For the past nine years he has been editor, pub- lisher and proprietor of the Pan Handle Admcale. It is sullicient to say that .as a journalist he h.as alw.iys endeavored to advocate that which w.as for the very best interests of the people among whom the j)aper circulates, and he is always able to state in clear and forcible language just what lie me.ans. His success in this department is highly deserved. He is a Knight Templar in M.asonr3', is a Patriarch in Odd-Fellowship, and has been in attendance ujmju the (irand Lodges of both bodies. He is Past Commander of Piper City Post, No. 30 1, Department of Illinois, G. A. R., and while commander took the initiatory steps which resulted in organizing Gresham Camp No. 187, Sons of Veterans, of which the Judge is an honorary member. Judge Beach cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln at Chicago, in 18(50, and has always been a believer in Repub- lican principles. He heard Lincoln .and Dougl.as ill the great joint discussion of 18r)8; li.as also listened to Lovejoy, Lf)gan, Trumbull, Seward, Corwin, Hale, Ingcrsoll, Blaine, Oglesby, Harrison, and a host of other leading orators of the Last thirty years; h.as heard the greatest imlpit orator, Beecher; the greatest living actor, Booth; and the greatest songstress. Patti. He was a member of the Pioneer Wide Awake Club of Chicago, in 18(i0, the Captain of which was Ord. Sergt. J. R. Hayden, of the famous Ellswortli Zouave cadets. Judge Beach has not accumulated wealtii, but his l()ve of good literature has brought around him one of the finest private libraries to be found anywhere. The field covered is very wide. Be- sides his law library, there are works of history, biograph\', travel, philosophy, science, mathema- tics, rhetoric, poetry, art, music, .also medical, theo- logical, political, military, .agricultural, horticul- tural, poinological, stock-raising, and various other : works, the .accumulations of a third of a century. These, and current leading journals and m.aga- zines of the d.ay, furnish an extensive field for intellectual thought and culture on all manner of interesting subjects. Some years ago, the Judge found that his long and arduous military service, and too close confinement to sedentary pursuits since, had made inrfiads upon his health, to coun- teract which he has felt compelled to seek more .active life in the ojieii air than formerly, and in this connection he has what he calls his "gymna- sium." It consists in interesting himself in the raising of blooded roadster horses, and Jersey cat- tle, and taking care of them himself! It is too soon to s.ay what the financial outcome may be, but one thing seems already assured, and that is, greatlj' benefited health. PORTRAIT AND BlOGRAPHi'CAL RECORD. H)l Judge and Mrs. Beach have a family of five living children: Henry Lyon, formerly uf the Ad- vocate, now employed as a reporter on the Chicago Dail}' Tribune; Carrie Estelle, who is assistant manager and chief compositor of the Advocate; Ernestine Kellogg, assistant coni|)osilor of the Advocate; Mettie Armalio and Daisy May, not yet in tiieir teens. Lillian Mar}', tlic second daugh- ter, pronounced a very interesting child by all who knew her, died suddenly of membranous croup in the fourtli year of her age. In closing tiiis outline of the biography of one of Ford Count3's best known citizens, let us sa}' that Judge Beach is an unassuming, (ilcasant and companionable gentleman, and stands among the first for integrity of purpose and general high character in the community where he has so long resided. ft^v^b^^V**^ j^OBERT WILSON, a well-known and en- terprising farmer lesiding on section 32' Dix Township, is a native of Glasgow, Scotland. He was born on the 13th o^ March, 1822, and is a son of Samuel and Eliza- beth (Riddel) Wilson. His father was a native of Ireland, and at an early da}' emigrated to Scot- land. In the family were seven children, as fol- lows: John, a farmer residing in Loda, 111.; James and Agnes, who are living in Dix Township with our subject; and the other three are now deceased. The mother of tliis faniil}' died in Logan County, 111., in 1849, and the father was called to his linal home in 1843, in Glasgow, Scotland. Mr. Wilson whose name heads this record at- tended the common schools until twelve years of age, since which time he has made his own wa}- in the world. In his native land he learneil the spinner's trade, which he followed until his emi- gration to America. Hearing much of the advan- tages and opportunities of the New World, he determined to try his fortune in this country. Cross- ing the Atlantic in 1848, he settled in Fall River, Mass., where he resided for four \ears. He then came Westward to Illinois in 18.")2. locating in Logan County, 111., near Lincoln. With his fa- ther and brothers, he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of Goveinnient land, upon which he resided until 1867. In the meantime, .Mr. Wilson responded to the call of his adopted country for troops, and in 1862 enlisted as a private of Company F, One Hundred and Sixth Illinois Infantry. The tirst engagement in which he participated was at Jack- son, Tenn. He was afterward in the siege of Vicksburg and under lire at the battles of Little Rock, Ark., Pine Bluff, and many others of minor importance. He w.as alwa3s found at his post, faithfully discharging any duty which devolved upon him. In 1865, on the close of the war, he was honorably discharged and returned to his home. As before stated, Mr. Wilson resided in Logan County until 1867, when he came to Ford County and purchased one hundred and si.Kt}' acres of railroad land on section 32, Dix Township. There, with his brother James and sister Agnes, he has since made his home. He devotes his entire time and attention to general farming and has a highly- improved quarter-section of land, which yields to him a golden tribute in leturn for the care and labor he bestows upon it. Mr. Wilson exercises his right of rranchise in support of the Demo- cratic party, lie is ahv;iys ready and willing to aid in the advancement of public enterprises, and has ever borne his share in the upbuilding and development of the coiiiiiiunity where he has now resided fiir a (juaiter of a eeiitiiry. 1/ ILANI) STIMPSON" is engaged in farming on section I'J, Dix Townshi|i. .41though be has resided in Ford County a com[)ara- ^S>^ 'ively short time, he has formed a wide acquaintance and is favoralily known A native of Ohio, he was born in Summit C(ninty, on the PJth of November, 1833. His grandfather, Elliott Stimpson, was a native of New York aii'D BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. They had .1 family of tliree children: David, of this sketuli; (ioori^e, a cooper by trade, residing in Ford County, and Isaljella, wlio is living in Eng- land. The father wa-s a farmer by occupation and died in 1831. His wife long survived him, passing away in 18G9. The}' were members of the Meth- odist Church. r>i)lh spent their entire lives in England. The educational advantages of our sul)ject were limited. He attended the common schools only until twelve years of age and was then bound out foi three years to learn the cooper's trade, which he followed until conung to America. Taking passage on a sailing-vessel, he crossed the broad Atlantic from Livci|>ool to New York City in 1852. Ills Inst location was made in Fall River, Mass. He Ijegan working in the print works of that placL and was there employed until 18.J7, when he came to Illinois. He purchased sixty-nine acres of railroad land on what is now section 30, Dix Township, to wliich he has since added b}- |)ur- chase thirty acres and has here since made his home. .lust before sailing for America, Mr. JTetcalf was married. May 8, 1852, to Miss Sarah Bell, daughter of Samuel and Elizal)eth (Dawson) Bell. She, too, was born in Westmorelaml, England, April 29, 1827. Four children were born of their union: Samuel Leonard, a farmer residing in Kansas; Sa- rah I., wife of David Speedie. a farmer residing in Dix Township; William C, who is engaged in ag- ricultural pursuits m Nebraska, and George D., who died on the 5th of July, 1875. During the late war, Mr. Jletcalf enlisted, Sep- tember 27, 1864, asa private in Comiiany B, Eighth Illinois Infantry. He participated in the siege and battle of Mobile and many other engagements and at the close of the war was honorabh" discharged, October 5, 1865. When his country no longer needed his services, he returned to liis home in Ford County and resumed farming. He has met with good success in his undertakings and has be- come one of the sulistantial citizens of the com- munity. AVhatever success he has achieved in life has been due to his own efforts and he is truly a self-made man. In i)olitical opinion, Mr. Metcalf is a Republican, and, in religious belief, is a Meth- odist, as is also his wife. He has long been a val- ued citizen of the comin'unity and is deserving of mention in the history of his adopted county. He is a strong advocate of temperance principles. [♦♦♦-I* t if,***-?-!- ^t%, AVID KEIGIHN, one of Mona's oldest set- tlers, was born in Peel, Isle of Man, May 18, 1825. He was a son of Thomas and Betsy (Garrette) Keighin. He left the island, and after a long voyage in a sailing-vessel landed in New Orleans in Ajtril, 1849. He went to Peoria in May, 1849, wiiere he engaged in tlie building business until October, 1862, when he entered the army as sutler of the Seventy-seventh Illinois, where he remained until the close of the war. In May, 1851, he was married to Mary Ann Cowley, daugh- ter of Thomas and Kate (Teare) Cowley. Siie was born in the Isle of Man. August 31, 1827, landed in New Orleans, JNIay 15, 1848, and settled in Mem- phis until her marriage. For four years after the close of the war, Mr. Keighin remained in the .South raising cotton. He then returned to Peoria, and shortly afterwards came to Ford County, locating in Mona Township. He purchased four hundred and eighty acres of land on section 11, and developed therefrom a fine farm upon which he made his home until 1883. In that3ear he removed to Kempton, 111., where he engaged in buying grain for six years. At the present time he is living a retired life in Chicago. He was the first Sui)ervisor of Mona Township and was honored with other public offices. In politics, he is a Republican and is a member of the Congre- gational Church. In the Keighin family were seven children: William T., who is now living on the old homestead; Lizzie and Isabell, who died in infancy; Charles B"., who died in 1889; David B.; ;Margaret A., who married S. A. Goodman, Novem- ber 15. 1889; and Minnie E. who is living with her parents in Chicago. Charles F. was engaged in the grain business with his father until his death Au- gust 26, 1889; his wife, Ella J., died nine weeks be- fore, leaving one child, Harold B.. three years old. William T. was born in Peoria, where he received his education; David B. .acquired his education in (2^yi^l6^ Cl/p^-'Zi^^^/^ ^^oICl- (yi<^ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 765 ,the schools of Peoria and Paxton. lie was reared to nianhood under the parental roof and on at- taining his majority was united in marriage with Miss Alice Benson, a daughter of Henry and Han- nah (Keniji) Benson. Their union has been graced by one child, a sou, Clarence B. Mr. Keighin and his wife are well-known young people of this com- munity and are highly esteemed by a wide circle of friends and acquaintances. AVilliam T. and David B. operate the old home- stead farm, comprising four hundred and eighty acres. In ccmnection with general farming they engage quite extensively in stock-raising, making a specialty of thoroughbred cattle. They are suc- cessful farmers and are recognized as among the leading agriculturists of the community. _y «^MOS S. ARNOLD, who is engagud iu Cg//J I[ general fai-ming on section 9, Lyman ll) Township, is a native of Clinton County, N. Y., born January 20, 1830. His par- ents were Stukley and Lovicy (Lobdell) Arnold, the former a native of Clinton County, N. Y., and the latter of the Green Mountain State. By occu- pation, the father was a farmer and followed that business throughout his entire life. He served as a member of the old State militia, and in his polit- ical attiliations was a AVhig. He died in his native county at the age of sevent3--six, and his wife died at the age of eighty-three. They had a famil3' ot four children, all of whom are yet living: May L., who resides in Clinton County, N. Y.; Saman- tha, who also makes her home in that county; Abigail, wife of J. B. White, Sheriff of Clinton Countj-, elected on the Reiiublican ticket. Amvjs S. Arnold is the eldest child and onl^^son of the ."amily. The educational [nivileges which he recei 'cd were those afforded by the common schools, and when he began earning his own live- lihood, he worked as a farm hand at *H per month. He was married, Jul.y 23, 1858, to Miss Lora N. Johnson, a daughter of David and Ceba (Ayers) Johnson, a native of Clinton County, N. Y. Her 31 father was a farmer, and could trace his lineage back to England. His father was a soldier in the War of 1812, and was given a land warrant for one hundred and sixty acres. Mr. Johnson was a Whig in his political afliliations until the rise of the Ke|)ul)lican parly, with which he became iden- tified. His death occurred at the age of sixty-five years, but his wife is still living on tlie old home- stead, at the age of seventy-three. They had six children: Flora, Lora, Elizabeth, Amanda, Martha, and Iva; all, except one, are living. UrttoMr. and Mrs. Arnold have been born seven children: Hattie, who was born in the Empire State, and was a stu- dent in the Valparaiso Normal, is now the wife of Eli McNeil, a farmer of Clinton County, N. Y., by whom he has one daughter, Pearl; Johnson D., a farmer of Lyman Township, married Rebecca Swigg, and they have two sons, Clyde and Ralph; Elma is the wife of Carvasso Cook, of Ford County, 111., and they have a son and daughter, Ellis and Vina L.; Mary E.. is the wife of Ervin Bunker, a farmer; Ceba, Silas S. and Seward M. are at home. In 18()8, Mr. Arnold bade good-bye to his old home, and, with his family, emigrated to Ford County, which was then a sparsely settled region, the land being mostly iu its primitive condition. It -was a great contrast for the family, who had left a pleasant home iu the East to live in this un- settled region and bear all the hardships and pri- vations of frontier life. Lyman Township was then a part of P>renton, .and Jlelvin and Rol)erts were not yet laid out. With the growth and de- velopment of the county since that time, Mr. Ar- nold has been prominently identified, and has ever borne his part in its uiibuilding and advancement. He is now one of the extensive land-owners of this community, owning five hundred and sixty acres of rich land in Ford County, boides property else- where. Their beautiful home, with its mau\' ins- provements, gives evidence of the industrious life and indicates the euter[)rising and progressive spirit of the owner. Mr. Arnold cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. AVin field Scott, and is now a stalwart sup- porter of the Republican partly. He is a friend to all educational, social and moral interests, and any 766 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. enterprise calculated to benefit the community. His wife is a member of the Methodist Church. Mr. Arnold is classed among the wealthy and influ- ential citizens of the community, and is held in high regard by all who know him. He may well be termed a self-made man, for to liis own efforts alone is due his success in life. 1^+^ l^r ^AMES MOLLOY, who is engaged in gen- eral farming on section 21, Dix Townships has long lieen a resident of Ford County and has witnessed almost its entire growth and development. A native of the P^mcrald Isle, he was born in County Meade, in 1832, and is the youngest in a family of five children. The par- ents, Thomas and Mary (Fox) Moilo}', were also natives of Ireland. Of their children, Patrick, the eldest, and Allen, the fourth, are both deceased; Kate, Elizabeth and James are still living. The subject of this sketch was reared to man- hood upon his father's farm, no event of impor- tance occurring during his boyhood. His educa- tion was acquired in the common schools. At the age of eighteen, he determined to try his fortune in America, and in 1850 sailed for the United States, landing in New York City. He made his first location in Middleton, Conn., where he began to earn his livelihood as a day laborer. Eight years of his life were passed in that State, after which he removed to Pennsylvania, locating in Bucks County, where he spent one year. He then came to the West, locating in Henderson County, 111., where he resided until 1869. That year wit- nessed his arrival in Ford County, and he has since been one of its prominent citizens. He purchased eighty acres of land on section 21, and has since made his home there and engaged in general farming and stock-raising. He now has a good farm, and in his business dealings he has been quite successful. In 1857, Mr. Molloy was united in marriage to Miss Julia INIartin, in Bucks Countj^ Pa., and unto them have been born five children, four sons and one daughter, of whom three are yet liv- ing: Thomas, who now makes his home in Liv-. ingston County, 111., is married and is an agricul- turist; James, a resident of Texas, is engaged in railroading on the Santa Fe; and John C, who re- sides in Illinois, is engaged in traveling. Frank and Allen are both deceased. In his political attiliations, Mr. Molloy is a Democrat, but has never been an otlice-seeker, preferring to devote his entire time and attention to his business interests. Religiously, he is a mem- ber of the Catholic Church. His residence in Ford County covers the long period of twent_v- tlirec years. He has witnessed its growth from the da3's of its early infancy, and has ever borne his share in the work of upliuilding and advance- ment. He has taken a coinmendalile interest in all that pertains to the welfare of the community and has proved himself a valuable citizen of Dix Tow7iship. -^^l H.' 'B f^T^RANK S. DRENDEL, who owns and oper- Mjgj) ates four hundred acres of land on section [[ 21, Mona Township, is widely and favor- ably known throughout this community and we feel assured that this record of his life will prove of interest to many of our readers. He was born in Germany on the 11th of November, 1839, and is one of five children, whose parents were Martin and Mary (Smith) Drendel. In order of birth, the children were as follows: Francis, Frank S., Barbara, George and Lewis. Our subject was born and reared upon his father's farm, no event of special importance occurring during his boyhood days. He was educated in both French and German. At the age of fourteen, he hired out as a farm hand in the old country, work- ing by the year, and was thus employed until 1865. when he determined to try his fortune in America. Crossing the broad Atlantic, he landed at New Y'ork City. Coming at once to Illinois, he located in Du Page County, where he worked upon a fai-m for two months. He then went to J^t. Louis, Mo., and subsequently to New Orleans, after which he returned to Illinois. In the spring of 1866, we PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 767 find him in Joliet, wliere he worked as a laborer for two years, and in 1868 lie came to Ford County. Hero he first rented land and broke prairie for five years. Having in the nieunlime acquired some capital by his industry and perseverance, he then purchased one iiuudred and sixty acres of land on section 21, IMona Township, where he has since resided. The boundaries of his farm have since been extended until he now owns four hundred acres of valuable land under a high state of culti- vation and well improved. The fields are well tilled and the neat appearance of the place indi- cates the careful supervision of a thrifty manager. In 1869, Mr. Drendel was united in marriage to Miss Mary .Slater, and by the union of this worthy couple nine children have been born, live sonsaud foui- daughters, as follows: George, Rebecca, Susie, Henrj, Frank, Frederick, Mary, Annie and Jlartin. The family circle remains unbroken and all are yet under the parental roof. In ills political aOiliations, Mr. Drendel is a Democrat, but has never been an office-seeker, |)referring to devote his entire time and attention to his business interests. He holds meml)ership with the Catholic Cliurch and has given liberally to its support. The cause of education finds in him a warm friend, and for sixteen years he has served as School Director, during which time lie has done effective service for its interests. He is numbered among the substantial citizens of the community, is highly respected and well deserves representa- tion in this volume. lEORGE D. WOOD, deceased, was born in Monroe County, N. Y., September 2, 1828, mj and is a son of John and Mary (Brooks) Wood, who were also natives of the Empire State. Tiie following children were born to them: Charles, who is now deceased; .lane, Emily, George D., Lewis; Ellen .J., .Tolin and Lewis, all three deceased; Mary, Henderson; Wallace, deceased; and one who died in infancy. The subject of this sketch spent his boyhood days upon a farm and ac(|uired his education in the common schools of the neighboriiood. He remained at home until the time of the gold excite- ment in California, when he made a trip by water to that State, and spent three years on the Pacific slope, (^n the expiration of that period, he re- turned to New York, where he lived the quiet life of a farmer until the breaking out of the late war. In September, 1862, he responded to the call for troops, enlisting .as one of the boys in blue of Com- pany D, One Hundred and Fortieth New York Infantry. He served under Gen. Grant at Gettys- burg, was at the battles of Richmond, the siege of Vicksburg, and many other engagements of less importance. While on picket duty, he was taken prisoner and confined in Libby and Andcrsonville prisons for nearly six months, after which he was exchanged. He tjien rejoined his regiment and served until the close of the war. He was honor- ably discharged on the 3d of .lune, 1865, after more than two years and a half of faithful service. Mr. Wood then returned to his home in New York and after a year came to Illinois, in 1866. He settled in Livingston Count}', near Chatsworth, and engaged in farming. In 1867, he sold that farm and came to Ford County, where he pur- chased one hundred and sixty acres of railroad land on section 9, Dix Township. On the 21tli of December, of that year, he married Miss Sarah L. Gridley, daughter of .ludah and Eunice (Andrews) Gridley, both of whom were natives of New York. Four children were born of this marriage: AVill- iam, who wedded Miss Mattie Colwell and has charge of tlie old home farm; Clayton, who died in 1874; Una, at home; and Hudson, who died in 1876. Mr. AVood placed his land all under a high state of cultivation and upon the home farm re- sided until his death, which occurred on the 26th of October, 1876, his remains being inferred in Gibson Cemeterj'. He was a prominent citizen of the community and many friends mourn his loss. He lived an upright life and won the high regard of all with whom he came in contact. In politics, he was a Democrat. Mrs. AVood is still living on the home farm with her children. She is an estim- able lady and is held in high regard througiiout the community. 768 POETEAIT AND BIOGRAI HICAL RECORD. Mrs. Wood's father, Judah B. Gridley, was a na- tive of New York. He was reared in his native State, and he made agriculture his chosen avoca- tion, but was a dealer in vehicles. He was a Republican in his political beliefs. He died in 1876, in New York. The mother, Eunice Andrews, was a native of the old Bay State, and was reared in New York. Both parents were educated in the common schools. She died in 1858. Mrs. Wood's girlhood da3'^s were spent upon the farm, and she was educated in the common schools, and was a student in the Riga Academy, in Monroe County, N. Y., for about one school year, and at a select school at Bergen, N. Y., for three winters. Mrs. Wood is a member of the Methodist Church at Gibson, 111. ■iTTOHN PETERS is a well-known and enter- prising agriculturist of Dix Township. He owns a fine farm of one hundred and sixty acres, situated on section 20. It has been his home for only about two j-ears, but alread}' shows the effect of the careful management of the owner. The fields are well tilled, the improvements well kept up, and the stock which he raises is of good grades. The place is complete in all its ap- pointments and is one of the model farms of the neighborhood. Mr. Peters is a native of Holstein, (jermany. He was born on the 12th of March, 1842, and is one of SIX children who were born unto Hans and Margaret (Heesch) Peters. His parents were natives of the same province and were there reared and married. The father served as a soldier in his na- tive land for many years. His death occurred in 1870, and his wife, who survived him ten years, passed away in 1880. Of their family, Henry is now living in America; Catherine has never left the Fatherland; John is the next j^ounger; Peter is a resident of McLean Count}', 111.; Heinrich is living in Germany; and William is also yet in the Old Country. In the schools of his native laud our subject ac- quired a good classical education, which has fitted him for the practical duties of life. After attain- ing to mature years he was united in marriage on the 24th of December, 1865, with Miss Catherine Shoe- maker, who was l)orn in German}', December .30, 1844, and is a daughter of John and Anna (Dethlefs) Shoemaker. By their union iiave been born ten children and three are living, a son and two daughters: Adeline, the eldest, is the wife of Edgar Thornton, a resident farmer of this county; John and Rosa arc still at home. It was in 1868 that Mr. Peters, accompanied by his farail}', crossed the broad Atlantic to New York City, from whence he came to Illinois. His first location was made at Bloomington, III., and in that locality he engaged in working upon a farm by the month for three years. On the expiration of that period, he began farming for himself in that count}-, where he made his home until 1880. Coming to Ford County in the spring of 1880, he i)urchased his beautiful home. In his political affiliations, Mr. Peters is'a supporter of tiie Democratic party, and with the German Lutheran Church he holds membership. It was an important day for him when he decided to come to America, for in this country he has prospered and won for himself a handsome competence. Mrs. Peters' girlhood days were spent in the town of Hennstedt, Province of Holstein, Germany. She was educated in the German schools. She had five sisters and one brotiier. There are five living, as follows: Eda,wife of Dethlef Tabberl, who resides in Bioomington, engaged in mercantile life; Anna, wife of John Sieh, an agriculturist, resides in Kan- sas; Mrs. Peters is the next in the genealogy; Phcebe, wife of Albert Veniuo, engaged m the manufacture of wax flowers, resides in New Jersey; Mary, wife of C. J. Heckens, a farmer, resides in Drummer Township. She is the youngest living. Both of Mrs. Peters' parents are deceased, the father dying in America. For over a quarter of a century, Mr. and Mrs. Peters have traveled the pilgrimage of life hand in hand. She has been a valuable helpmate to her husband, and has shared alike the joys and sorrows of life together. Mr. Peters was a soldier in the Prussian army for one and a-half years. He was faithful to the duties entrusted to him and honorably discharged. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 769 Besides liis I)eantiful home in Dix Township, he Ims one huiidied and sixt^' acres of ijood land in Knox C'ountv, Nel). He and wife are considered amonijst tlie best citizens of l>ix Townshi)) and his word as good as iiis bond. , j .^ w . ^ . >- ETER nOLLEN is one of the extensive land owners and a prosperons farmer of Dix Township, residing on section 3. He was born in Denmark, August 20, 18.54, and is one of a family of seven children, whose parents were Peter and Margaret Ilollen. Caroline, the eldest child, "is now the wife of (George Madison, a farmer of Denmark; .John died on the 13th of October, 1891, and his remains were interred in the cemeterj' of Gibson Citj'; Sophia is the wife of .John Peterson, a resident of Denmark; Peter, of this sketch, is the next younger; .laeob is an agricul- tuiist of California; Hannah M. is the wife of Eli Johnson, who resides in Minnesota. Mr. HoUen whose name lieads this record sjient his early boyhood u[ion his father's farm in his native land. He attended the common schools until fourteen years of age, and the following year began to earn his own livelihood by working as a farm hand by the month. He was only a lad of fifteen when he cros.sed the Atlantic to America, landing in New York City in 1867. He came at once to Illinois, locating in La Salle County, where he worked on a farm by the month for five years. The money that he acquired during tiiat time bj' his industry and economy, he invested in land in Ford County, whithei' he came in 1875. In connection with his brother John, he purchased eighty acres of land on section 3, Dix Township, and began the development of a farm. He lias there since made his home. In his business deal- ings, he h.as been very successful and as his finan- cial resources have increased, he lias increased his possessions until he is now the owner of three hundred and twenty acres of good land, all in Dix Townshii). Mr. Ilollen was married December 13, 1881, the lady of his choice being Miss Annie Longmeyer, a daughter of John and .Tulia (Lackey) Longmeyer. By this marri.age have lieen born two children, a daughter and sou: Allie May and John Milton. The parents are worthy people who hold an envia- ble position in social circles and are highly es- teemed by their many warm friends throughout the community. In his political affiliations, Mr. Hollen is a Dem- ocrat and takes an active interest in the success of that party. He is a sagacious Iiusiness man, enter- prising and industrious, and his fair and honest dealings have not only won him success Init have secured him the confidence and well wishes of all with whom he has come in contact. ^*^-^R, ISAAC P. FARLEY, a retired farmer re- siding in Rogers Township, is one of the representative and substantial citizens of Ford County, widely and prominently known throughout the community. His life record is as follows: He was born in Crawford County, Pa., November 22, 1829. and is a son of Samuel C. Farley, who was born in New York in 1807. The grandfather, Kindall Farley, was also a native of the Empire State. He died during the childhood of Samuel, who removed with his mother to Penn- sylvania. She afterward became the wife of Bar- tholomew Forbes, a native of the Keystone State, and settled in Erie County. Samuel Farley was a contractor and builder and did a good business in that line. In 1844, he emigrated to La Salle County, 111., where he purchased land and also followed his trade. Subsequently, he resided in Grundy County, and later in Ford County. lie was married, in Pennsylvania, to Jane A. Walker, an own cousin of President James Buchanan. She was a native of Pennsylvania, as was her father, Walter Walker. Mr. F'arley died in Rogers Town- ship in 1871. His wife survived him about two years and died in 1873. Both lie buried in I-Cld- ridgeville Cemeterj', where a niominienl marks their Last resting jilace. The Farley family iiuiiiliered five sons and two 770 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. daughters, the Doctor being the second in order of birth; Kindall, the eldest, died in early man- hood; Hannah is the wife of David Bullock, a farmer of Rogers Township; Joel E. resides near Kempton; James D., now deceased, was a farmer of Iroquois County; Benjamin F. is a prominent physician of York, Neb.; and Sarah M. is the wife of John Bagg, who resides near York, Neb. Dr. Farley was only about sixteen years of age when he came to Illinois. He completed his liter- ary education in the Sandwich High School and remained with his father until after he had at- tained his majority. He was united in marriage ia De Kalb County, on the 7th of January, 1850, with M'lii Bjlinda Eunice Eddy, who was born in the town of Turin, Lewis County, N. Y. Her fa- ther, the Rev. William H. Eddy, a Methodist min- ister, emigrated to Ohio in 1838, and about a year later came to Illinois, locating near Joliet. After a year spent in that place, he settled in De Kalb County. After his marriage, the Doctor located in De Kalb County, having a large and one of the best improved farms in that locality. He was a thrifty and enterprising agriculturist and was very suc- cessful in his undertakings. He afterwards lo- cated upon his present farm in Rogers Township, where he then spent two years. The ten suc- ceeding years of his life were passed in Chieago, during which time he pursued four courses of lec- tures in the Rush Medical College, from which he was graduated in 1885. He then made a loca- tion in Cabery. This was in 1890. He built a fine residence, and after engaging in practice for about two years, came to the farm in the spring of 1892, and is now boarding with his son, who operates the land. He expects soon, however, to locate in Waterman, De Kalb County, where he owns a fine residence. He also owns a pleasant dwelling in Chieago. Unto the Doctor and his wife have been born three children, who are yet living, and they have lost two: William Kindall is a prominent phy- sician of Waterman. 111., having graduated from Rush Medical College in 1886; Deloss P. is a lead- ing farmer of this county; Eugene V., a commer- cial traveler, resides in Chicago; Hurford E., a m.an of superior education and a graduate of Rush Medical College, died July 13, 1882, at the age of twenty-six years; Elnora F. became the wife of George R. Sapp, of Indiana, and they resided with her parents until her death, which occurred May 15, 1888, at the age of thirty j-ears. Dr. Farley and his wife also had an adoiited daugh- ter, Hattie, a lady of most estimable character. She passed away January 17, 1879, at the age of thirty years. The Doctor and his wife have spent almost their entire life in Illinois, and are well and favorably known throughout the State. Ho has lieen an ac- tive and successful business man all his life and has taken quite a prominent part in public .affairs, doing all in his power to promote those interests calculated to advance the public welfare. In poli- tics, he was formerly a Republican, but now votes with the Prohibition part}' and is .an active worker in the temperance cause. He and his esti- mable wife are numbered among Ford County- "s best citizens. 'jf? OSEPH K. JONES is a practical .and pro- gressive farmer of Dix Township, residing on section 33. Throughout this coininunit\', f^fJ he is widelj- known, and we feel assured that this record of his life will prove of interest to many of our readers. He was born in Madison Count}', Ind., October 11, 1849, and is a son of Henry and Susan (Dunn) Jones. His parents were married in Madison County, and reared a family of eight children, as follows: Is.aac P., now de- ceased; John, who is living in Indiana; James, a resident fanner of Dix Township; AVilliam H. and Rachel, both deceased; Emma, wife of M.V.Davis, of Paxton. 111.; and Joseph K., who completes the family. In 1855, Henry Jones came with his family to Illinois, settling in Vermilion County, where he eng.aged in farming for five years. In 1860, he came to Ford County and settled in Button Town- ship, where he engaged in farming. He passed away in 1868, and his wife, who survived him PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD 771 some jears, departed this life on tlie lotli of July, 1889. Tlie^' w(^re l)otli nioml)ers of tbe Methodist Church and were highly resiieoted people. We now take u\} the personal history of Joseph K. Jones, who acquired a fair business education in the common schools and was thereby fitted for the practical duties of life. He remained under the parental roof until he had attained his major- ity and then started out in life for himself. In 1875, he purchased a farm on which he now resides. It is a one hundred and twenty acre tract of arable laud on section 33, Dix Township, and the well- tilled fields and many improvemenis to be seen upon the place indicate the thrift and enterprise of the owner, who is regarded as one of the leading agriculturists of the community. lie is an upright and straightforward business man and is one of the highly respected citizens of the community. On the 6th of March, 1875, Mr. Jones was united in marriage to Miss Jennie P.arrow, a daughler of J. F. Barrow, and their union lias been blessed by a family of six children, three sons and three daughters, namel\ : Delia, Fred !>.. Floy, Raymond, Earl an. ?>P!S8»i. •Jkc^i^j ^ , '3^ij^ yx^tH'lai^ I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. sixty acre tract of arable land on section 19, Dix Township. Almost the entire amount is under a high state of cultivation and is well improved with all the accessories of a good farm. In politics, Mr. BuUington is a supporter of the Republican part}'. Both he and his wife are mem- bers of the Christian Church. He is a well-informed man, botli on political questions and otherwise, and is a representative citizen of the community. He and his wife are well known in Dix Township and are highly respected citizens who hold an envialile position in social circles. Socially, he is a mason and a member of Lott Post No. 70, C A. K. ^ILLIAJI S. HUSTON is numbered among the leading farmers of Drummer Town- ship. He is a native of Pennsylvania, born on the 1st of February, 1819, in Chester County, on the same farm which was the birth- place of his father and grandfather. His great- grandfather, John Huston, emigrated from Scot- land to America about the beginning of the Revolutionary War, joined the Colonial army and was one of the heroes who spent that memor- able winter with Washington at Valley Forge. He participated in the battle of Brandywine and after the close of the war purchased a tract of land in Chester Count}-, Pa., a part of which has been in possession of the family ever since. The family name was formerly spelled Houston; he dropped the o. spelling the name .as at present. For a wife he chose a lady of English birth. The grandfather Huston, who also bore the Christian name of John, was born, lived and died on the old homestead, where the father of our subject w.as born. The father was a well-to-do farmer and his marriage was celebrated in Cecil County, Md., of which county his wife was a native. Hotli are consistent members of the Presbyterian Church, and are now well advanced in life. The\' are the parents of ten children, five sons and five daugh- ters, all of whom are still living: p]inma H., wife oi Thomas Smetiiey, a resident of Philadelphia, Pa., a manufacturer; Eliza IT., wife of J. S. INIoore, a resident of Philadelphia, I'a., and Roadinaster of the Market Street Railroad; J. Newton, attorney at law at West Chester, Pa., is mariicd; ]\[r. Hus- ton is next in the genealogy; J. L. M. is on the old homestead; Walter H., a resident of New Jersey; A. J., wife of Mr. MeCoe, of Philadeliiliia; Pluebe, at home; Minnie, at Pliiladelpliia; IMarshall, a resident of Pliiladelpliia, is married. AVilliam S. Huston, the subject of this sketch, spent his boyhood under the parental roof and was the fifth child in order of l)irth in the family. His educational ailvantages were good for that day. After attending the public schools, he spent some time in the New London Academy, where he completed his literary studies. About lSfi8, he came to Putnam County, 111., but soon after went to Grundy Count}', where he acquired a farm of eighty acres. Selling that, he located in Drummer Township, Ford County, in 1876, purchasing a quarter-section of land at 135 per acre. So rapid has Iieen the advancement of property in this county that the same land would now command $75. By industry and the exercise of good busi- ness ability, Mr. Huston lias increased his farm until he now owns four hundred and eighty acres of good arable land, which yield a golden trib- ute to his care and cultivation. He is a strong believer in tile draining and has a number of miles of it on his farm. He has the reputation of being one of the most progressive agriculturists of his township. In Putnam County, III., on the 26th of Febru- ary, 1874, Mr. Huston was married to Miss Mary Foley, who died October 19, 18H0. She was a de- voted member of the Presbyterian Church, to which our subject also belongs. Two children were born of this unicm, namely, J. Walter and Frederick. Mrs. Huston had living four brothers and two sisters: J. B. Foley is the eldest, and is represented elsewhere in this volume; Mar- tin is a resident of Nebraska, and a farmer; W. C. Foley, is a resident of Drummer Township, and a farmer; Mattie, wife of Mr. Fieipont, of (iibson; Anna, wife of Frank Ross, of Chicago; Elmer E. resides in Gibson, and is married. In political sentiment, Mr. Huston is a liepub- 778 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. lican, taking an active interest in the success of Ills party, but is not au aspinint for official dis- tinction. He cast his first Presidential vote for the Soldier President, U. S. Grant. He has now lived in Ford County for sixteen years, and has witnessed the rapid growth and development of the county, in whicii he has also taken part. He is public-spirited and progressive, and is highl}' es- teemed for liis sterling worth and integrity. ' OHN HUGHS is engaged in general farm- ing on section 24, Rogers Township, where he owns and operates three hundred and twentj' acres of land. He was born in Wales, about 1818, and is a son of David and Sarah Hughs, both of whom were natives of that country. In his younger years the father served in the British army. Knitting was his trade, and he earned his livelihood by making fancy work. He spent his entire life in the laud of his birth. Our subject remained in Wales until thirty ^ears of age. His educational privileges were verv lim- ited. At the age of twelve, he began farming and followed that occupation until 18.51, wiiich 3'ear witnessed his emigration to America. Going to Liverpool, he there embarked on a sailing-vessel, and after six weeks spent upon the bosom of the liroad Atlantic, he arrived in New York in June. He began work on a farm near Utica, N. Y., resid- ing iu that locality for about four ^-ears. On tlie 23d f)f November, 1854, in Oneida County, Mr. Hughs was joined in wedlock with Miss Mary Morris, a native of Wales. AVith her father, GrifHn Morris, she came to the United States, and settled in New York in April, 1853. The year succeeding their marriage, Mr. Hughs removed to Wisconsin, locating near Mygats Corners, Racine Count3', where he engaged in work as a farm hand. He remained in that locality for about ten years, or until after the war, wlien he came to Illinois. Set- tling in Ford County in 1800, he bought a tract of wild land of one hundred and twenty acres, which he develojied into a good farm. As his financial resources have increased, he has made ad- ditional purchases, until now three hundred and twenty acres, divided into rich and fertile fields, yield to him a golden tribute. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hughs have been born six children: Mar}' J., now the wife of Norman C. Hill, a resident of Ford Count\-; Ann Elizabeth, wife of Daniel Bouh, who is engaged in farming near Cabei^y; Katie Sarah, wife of Eugene George, of Livingston County; David, who is married and follows agricultural pursuits in Rogers Township; John M., and Thomas E., both of whom are mar- ried and reside on the old homestead. IVIr. Hughs exercises his right of franchise in support of the Republican party. He is one of the early settlers of this community, having re- sided in Ford County for more than a quarter of a century. He is well known in this community and is highly esteemed for his sterling worth. He de- serves great credit for his success in life, which is the result of his own unaided efforts, as he started out to earn his own livelihood emptj'-handed and with no inlluential friends to aid him. He is tlie founder of his family iu America, and in future years his descendants may point with pride to their ancestor. LBERT E. M0TTH:R carries on general farming on section 5, Dix Township, wiiere he has made his home for twelve years. He there owns and operates two hundred and forty-five acres of valuable land, constituting one of the finest farms of this locality. The land is all under a high state of cultivation, and he has made many good improvements which stand as monuments to his thrift and enterprise. Mr. Mottier was born near Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio, February 22, 1837, and is a son of John E. Mottier. His father w.as born in Switzer- land in 1801, and was of French descent. When eighteen years of age he came to America, and worked three years to pa}' his passage across the Atlantic. His first location was made in Switzer- land Cc)untv, Ind., and when his labor had paid fo)' his passage, he began working as a farm hand PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. ■79 bj' the month. Three years he spent in that way, and then removed to Hamilton County, Ohio, where he engaged in cultivating a vineyard until 1865. Tliat year witnessed his removal to Erie Count}', Pa., where he followed the same line of business until his death, which occurred in 1888. He was a member of the Universalist Church, and exercised his right of franchise in support of the Republican party. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Maria Seibenthal. died in 1867. They were members of the Universalist Church. The Mottier family numbered twelve children, as follows: John E., who died in infancy-; Cecil; Eliza, deceased; Susan, wife of P"rank Murph}', a farmer and fruit-grower, of Cincinnati, Ohio; Ze- lia, wife of A. Longley; Albert E., of this sketch; John F., a fruit-grower residing in Erie, Pa.; Favor Z., who died in 1867, was a veteran of the late war, and for six months was held a prisoner at An- dersonvillo; Charles H., a fruit-grower of Eastern Pennsylvania, who was a member of the Fourth Ohio Cavalry, and was honorably discliarged at the close of the war; George L. died in infancy; Paul- ine is the wife of Jasper Murphy, a horticulturist, residing near Cincinnati, Ohio; and Lewis G., who died in infancy. Mr. Mottier whose name heads this record ac- quired a good English education in the common- schools, and spent his bo3hood daj'S in the usual manner of farmer lads. He remained under the pa- rental roof until he had attained his majority, when he started out in life for himself. In 1859, he came to Illinois, where he spent one year working on a farm, and then returned to his old home. Soon afterward he was married to Miss Phenie Gen- tle, a daughter of John and Louisa (Iligdon) Gen- tle. Their union was celebrated November 27i 1860, and they began their domestic life upon a fruit farm near Cincinnati, to the cultivation of which he devoted his energies. In 1880, Mr. Mot- tier removed with his family to Ford County, 111., and located upon the beautiful farm which is yet his home. Mrs. Mottier had ten brothers and sisters, of whom there are six living at present: The eld- est, Mary J., widow of J. H. Stathem, resides in Bloomington, 111.; Mrs. Mottier is next in order; Thomas S. Gentle, who is married, and is a farmer, is a resident of Farmington, 111.; Maggie, wife of John Bulger, whose sketch appears elsewhere; Hat- tic, wife of George Babbitt, a commission mer- chant, resides in Ashland, Neb; Lulu M., wife of Frank Ashton, who is interested in coal mining, resides in Bryant, Fulton County, 111., and is the youngest living. Mrs. Mottier was born near Cincinnati, Ohio, November 4, 1838, and her maidenhood days were spent near that locality Slie was educated in the country schools near Cincinnati, and in the Farm- ington graded schools. In Illinois she was one of Fulton County's successful teachers. Mrs. Mottier is a devout member of the Methodist Church, and has alwaj'S faithfully performed her duty. She is a member of the Foreign Missionary Society at Gibson Cit}', 111. Four children were born unto our subject and his wife, but only two are now living: Charlie died in infancy; William C. is a farmer residing in Dix Township; AValter F. is married and resides on the home farm; and Julia G. died on tiie 2nd of August, 1890. She was a sweet girl, and was of that loving and affectionate nature which en- deared her to all with whom she came in contact. The Mottier family is one well and favorably known in this community. In polities, Mr. Mot- tier is a Republican, and in religious belief is a Methodist. He has led an upright life, and won the confidence and high regard of all. With the aid of his son Walter, who is an enterprising j'oung farmer, he carries on general farming, and the homestead has been transformed into one of the model farms of the communitv. ^^ UGH DUXNAN, who resides on section 34, Dix Township, is one of the extensive land- owners of Ford County. He was born in Lawrence County, Pa., near Mt. Jackson, on the 4th of April, 1839, and is a son of John Dunnan, who was a native of Ireland, and was of Scotch extraction. He married Ann Smiley, a na- tive of Allegheny' County, Pa., and they became the parents of eight children. The two eldest died 780 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. ill infaiic}'. The otliers, all sons, are David, John, James, Samuel, Robert and Hugh. The father of this family died in 184'6. The mother survived him thirty years, being called to her final rest in 1876. Mr. Dunnaii wliose name heads tliis record spent the days of his boyhood and youth in the usual manner of farmer lads. He attended the district schools, and acquired a good English education. During the progress of the late war, he enlisted, in August, 18G4, as a private of Company B, Two Hundred and Fourth Pennsylvania Infantry. The first engagement in which he participated was at Salem, Va. He subsequently met the enemy in battle at AVhite Plains and Piatt Mound, and in man}' other less important engagements. On the close of the war he was honorably discharged, in June, 1865. When the country no longer needed his services, he returned to his old home in Pennsylvania and resumed farming. As a companion and helpmate on life's journey, he chose Mi.ss Eliza Wallace, daughter of James and Jane Wallace, both of whom weie natives of Ohio. Their union was celebrated on the 19th of October, 1876. Mrs. Dunnan was educated in the State Normal School of Edinboro, Pa., and is a grand-daughter of the late Judge James Wallace, of iSIahoning County, Ohio. She is a lady of culture and refinement, and her many excellencies of character have won her high regard. In the Dunnan household are five children, one son and four daughters: James AVal- lace, Margaret, Martha, Annie Janet and Luella, and the familj' circle is yet unbroken. Mr. Dunnan continued to reside in Pennsyl- vania until 1882, when he came with his family to Illinois, locating in Ford County. He has since made his home in Dix Township. He first purchased two hundred and sixty acres of land on section 34, his present home, and has since made additional purchases, until his landed possessions now aggre- gate six hundred acres of valuable land, all of which is located in Ford County. He is an enter- prising and successful agriculturist, and a sagacious and far-sighted business man. who through his own perseverance and good management has won pros- perity. He and his wife hohl membership with the Presljyterian Church, and give liberally to its sup- port. In politics, he is a Democrat. Mr. Dunnan is recognized as one of the prominent and influen- tial citizens of the community, and it is with pleas- ure that we present this record of his life to our readers. '■ " °-^ ^^ m "if/OHN II. LEONARD, who for eighteen years has resided upon his present farm on section 27, Dix Township, was born in Roanoke County, Va.,on the 30th of May, 1842, and is one of seven children, wiiose parents were Jacob and Elizabeth (Beazel) Leonard. Both parents are now deceased. The mother died in 1867, and the father departed this life in 1882. Of the fam- ily', Eliza is now the wife of John Humphries; David died in 1887; Daniel died in 18,56; Jacob is a resident farmer of Montgomery County, IMo.; Samuel, who enlisted in his country's service, was killed during the war in 1863; John H. is the next younger, and completes the family. Mr. Leonard of this sketch acquired his educa- tion in the common schools of the neighborhood, which he attended through the winter season, while in the summer months he aided in the labors of the home farm. He was still under the parental roof at the time of the breaking out of tiic late war. At the age of twenty, he responded to the country's call for troops, enlisting in March, 1862, as a member of the Salem Light Artillery, of Vir- ginia. The first engagement in wiiicli he parti- cii)ated was at Crany Island. He afterwards fought in the battles of Richmond, Seven Pines, and in all the other engagements in which his regi- ment participated. On the close of the war he was honorably discharged and returned to his old home in Virginia, where he spent a short time. The year 1868 witnessed the arrival of Mr. Leonard in Illinois. He made his first location in Woodford County, and while there residing was inarricd, in 1870, to Miss Emma Gullett, daugh- ter of AVilliam and Priscilla Gullett. Three children have been born of their union, but two /^ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 783 died ill infancy. Edith E. is now a successful school teacher. In 1874, Ml'- Leonard came willi his family to Ford County and purchased one luindred acres of land on section 27, Dix Townsliip. He lias here made his home continuously since and devotes his time and attention to general farming. In 1878, he was called upon to mourn tlie loss of iiis wife, who died on the 2d of January and was laid to rest in tlie AVagner Cemeterj' in Dix Township. He was a second time married, in 1882, his union heing with IMiss Annie Whorr.iU, daughter of Thomas and Euphemia AVhorrall. Two cliildren grace this marriage: John T. and William H. Mr. Leonard is a Democrat, having supported that party for some j'ears. His fellow-citizens, appreciating his worth and ability, have several times called upon him to serve in positions of pub- lic trust. For three j-ears he held tlie otHce of Commissioner of Highways of Dix Township, was Supervisor for two years and served as Assessor three terms. His re-election to these offices attests his faithfulness and indicates the prompt manner in which he discharges his duties. Sociall}', he is a member of the Odd Fellows' society and also holds membership with the Lutheran Church. ^sm- i Ti AMES H. MERRILL, who is engaged in gen- eral farming on section 14, Rogers Town- ship, is one of the representative citizens of the county. A native of Vermont, he was born in Franklin County, June 24, 1834. His father, Capt. Harlow Merrill, was also a native of A'er- mont, where the days of his boyhood and \-outh were passed. After attaining to mature years, he married Nancy Parmalee, who was born in LiUli- lield. Conn., but spent her maidenhood days in the Green Mountain State. Capt. Merrill was a farmer of Franklin County. In 18.54, he went with his famil}' to Ohio, locating in Franklin Township, Portage County, and spent his last days in the home of his eldest son in that place. His wife died in 18G2, a few 3'ears previous to the death of her husband. He won his title while serving in the State' militia of Vermont. In the jMerrill family were three sons: Sam 1'., a resident farmer of Port- age County, Ohio; Charles S., a physician in Marsh- allville; and our subject. .James H. Merrill remained in the State of his nativity until twenty years of age, and acquired his early education in the public schools and later in the Northampton Institute of Fairfax. He afterward commenced teaching, and was con- nected with that profession for many jears. He has taught in A'ermout, Ohio and Illinois, having devoted his time in the winter season to that labor for over thirty years. He came to this State in the spring of 1865, first locating in Lockport To\to- ship. Will County, where he purchased a farm. Af- ter engaging in its cultivation for one year, he sold out and removed to Cook County, where he .again purchased a farm, making it his home for fifteen years. On the expiration of that jieriod, having sold his property, he came to Ford County, in 1882, and bought the farm on which he now re- sides. It is a valuable tract of one hundred and twenty acres, pleasantlj- situated two miles and a half to the east of Cabery. Mr. Merrill is recog- nized as an enterprising and practical farmer, and may well be termed a self-made man, for he has worked his waj- upward to a position of affluence. In Fairfax, Vt, in 18.")6, Mr. Merrill led to the marriage altar ]Miss Jlaria Daniels, who was born, reared and educated in the Green Mountain State, and is a daughter of {;ideou E. Daniels. Four chil- dren grace their union: Emogeuc M., now the wife of William Runge, a resident of Frederick, S. Dak. Emogene was born at Earlville, Ohio, in 1858, and after passing through the common schools of Illinois, she prepared herself for teaching, by at- tending the Cook County Normal, from which she was graduated in 1870, after which she taught in countj'and graded schools until she was married in 1882. Sanl'ord E., a well-i'ducated young man, en- gaged in teaching inl'liornton, 111., is also an Ohioan by birth; he was born in 18(3(1, and after receiving his training as a te.acher in the Cook County Nor- mal, he began his work in that profession, and has taught successfully in Will, Ford and Cook Coun- ties. George E., who holds a responsible position in Chicago, was born at Palos, III., in 18G9, and 784 i'OETEAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. when ahout one and a half years old, lost his hear- ing, a.s tlie lesnlt of an attaeli of brain fever. He was graduated witli honor from the institute for the deaf anil dunih, at Jacksonville, 111., after a ten years' course. Jay IL, was born at Palus, 111., in 1878, and is still at home. Mr. IMerrill is a valued citizen of the commu- nity, for Le takes an active pait in all that per- tains to its welfare, and has done much for the u|ibuilding of town and county. His inlUience is ever given in support of those interests calculated to prove of public lieneflt. He believes in good schools, and to secure these, believes tiiat compe- tent teachers should be iiired. In politics, he has licen a sup[)orter of Kepublican princi|jles since he attained his majority. His upriglit life has won him the confidence and higii regard of all with whom he has come in contact, and lie well deserves rei)resentation in this volume. ■^I'AMES J. HOUSTON, an honored pioneer and wealthy farmer of I)ix Township, resid- ing on section 30, is of Scottish birth. He J was born in South Scotland. Januaiy 29, 1837. His father, James Houston, was also a native of tlial locality. After attaining to mature years, he wedded Peggy Gilchrist, their union being cele- brated in 1821. Crossing the Atlantic to America in 1847, they located in Fall River, Mass., where Mr. Houston retired from his trade of weaving on account of ill health. In the year 1850, he re- moved to Logan County, III., where he resided until 18(J7. He tlien came to Ford County, and here made his home until his death, which occurred Seplemlier 26, 1881. His wife was called to her final rest on the 20th of Se[)tember, 1865. They had a famil3' of ten childreu: Jane, wife of Charles Thompson, an engineer residing in Joliet, III.; Thom.as, now deceased; Ellen, wife of Henry Bush, a farmer of Benton, Kan.; Margaret, wife of Roliert Jardine, a farmer of Dix Township, Ford County; Janet, wife of James Ewart, a merchant of Colfax, Wash.; William, who was engaged in farming in Logan County, III., now living retired in Lincoln, III.; James J., of this sketch; Catherine, wife of William (iilchrist, a retired farmer living in Grand Island, Neb.; John (J. and Mary, both deceased. Our subject began his school life in Scotland. He was a lad of ten summers when with his par- ents he crossed the broad Atlantic to America. His education was completed in the district schools, where he jirepared himself for farm life which he has always followed. During the late war he re- sponded to the country's call for troops, enlisting as a private in 1861, for three years' service. He was assigned to Company 15, of the Second Illinois Cavalry, and [larticipated in many hard fought bat- tles and skirmishes. He w\as at the battles of Ft. Donelson and Sliiloh and the siege of Corinth, and was under fire many other times but received no wounds. He was a faithful soldier, always found at his post of duty and loj'al to the cause under whose banner he enlisted. On the 29th of September, 1864, Mr. Houston wedded Miss Jane J. Gilchrist, a native of Rhode Island. She was born August 24, 1844, and is a daughter of James and Jane (Harper) Gilchrist, both of whom were of Scotch descent. Their union was blessed with eight children, but David J., the eldest; Thomas, the third; D. W., and Peggy J., the fourth and fifth; and Mary H., the seventh child, are now deceased. Those still living are, John R., Peggy E. .J., and Margaret J. The famil}' reside upon a pleasant farm of one hundred and forty-five acres, which is under a high state of cultivation and well iiuiiroved. The neat appearance of the place indicates the careful su- pervision of the owner who is regarded as one of the leading agriculturists of the community. In religious belief, INIr. and Mrs. Houston are members of the Cumlierland Presbyterian Church in Gibson, and, in his political relations, our subject is a Repub- lican, having supported that party since he cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln. He has served as Highway Commissioner, and filled other minor ollices, promjitly and faithfully discharging the duties of each. Mr. Houston has been a mem- ber of the School Board of his district for ten long years, which shows his fidelity to the cause of edu- cation. This alone is a strong testimonial to the POBTliAlT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 785 re|>iitation of Mr. Houston. Sirs. Houston's girlhood days were sj)eut in Logan County, where she re- ceived her education in tiie common schools. She h.as a little souvenir pin, in memory of the famous "Tippecanoe and Tyler, too" cani|)aign, which she cherishes. She and her husband have traveled the palhw.ay of life for over a quarter of a century, siiariug alike the joys and sorrows of life. They have always been identified witli all religious work, and have taken an active part in the Sunday- school work. Mr. Houston is an Elder in the church, and has been an officer in some important place in his church for almost a quarter of a century. He is a member of the J. B. Lott Post No. 70, (J. .\. R., of Gibson, 111. ^ Mrs. Houston had four brothers and one sister. The brothers are all living: William J. is a resident of Vallej' Center, Kan., is married and is a farmer and grain merchant; Jolm R., a well-known citi- zen of Dix Township, is a dealer in grain and real estate, and is married; Joseph D. is a resident of A'alley Center, Kan., is married, and is engaged in grain Iniying and farming. Both of Mrs Hous- ton 's parents aie deceased. '\|' OHN BOND, a leading and influential farmer of Dix Township, now residing in Gibson, TIL, is a native of England. He was born lj(^/ in Manchester, Lancashire, Ai)ril 12, 1822, and is a son of Zachariah and IMary (Dixon) Bond, both of whom were natives of the same county. There they were reared and married, and the mother's deatji there occurred on the UHli of March, 1858, in her fifty-fifth year. Her remains were interred in Cheatamill. The following year Mr. Bond came to America, crossing the Atlantic to New York City. Locating in Livingston County, 111., he there made his home until called to his final rest on the 27th of September, 1865. He was buried in the Livingston Cemetery. The family of this worthy couple numbered nineteen cliildri^n, seven of whom grew to mature years, luuncly: .Tolin, Mary, Ellen, Eliza, Elizabeth, William II. and James A. John Bond of this sketch was educated in the schools of Manchester, England, and spent his boy- hood days in his native land. He first came to America in 1811, but after a year and a half re- turned to his native land on account of business. In 1859, he again came to this countrj'. Landing at New York City, he made his way thence to Liv- ingston County, 111., where he engaged in the man- ufacture of brick, which business he had learned in England. He resided in that county- until 1875, when, with his family, he came to Eord County, and purchased his present home in Dix Townshii). He has since followed farming and now owns two hundred acres of valuable land, constituting one of the desirable places of this localit\'. In politics, he is a Repuljlican. He has never sought or de- sired public office, preferring to devote his entire attention to his business interests. In religious belief, he is a iNIethodist. The lady who is now Mrs. Bond was in her maid- enhood Eliza Aslam. Her parents, Abraham and Anice (Knott) Aslam, were natives of Manchester, England. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Bond was celebrated July 9, 1843, at Eccles Church, Lanca- shire, and unto them have been born nine children, as foUow^s: Mary, now the wife of Moses Melling- ton, a resident of Kansas; Jane, deceased; Helen, now the wife of William Hinds, of Ford County; John, Zachariah; .\nice, deceased; Wilber, Eliza and Isaac. |OBERT JARDINE, a prominent citizen of the coinmuiiily and an enterprising farmer -\ residing on section 4, Dix Township, claims ^^ Scotland as the land of his nativity. He was born in 1822, and is the only child of Robert and Sarah (JIcMuUen) Jardine, who were also na- tives of Scotland. The father w.as a farmer and followed that occupation in pursuit of fortune throughout his entire life. He and his wife were both members of the Presbyterian Church. Our subject was born and reared upon the home farm and w.as early inured to hard lal)or. Heat- tended the common schools of the neighborhood 786 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. until sixteen years of age, and remained witli his father until eighteen years of age, when lie started out to earn his own liveliiiood, working as a farm hand by the month. At length, he determined to try his fortune in America and, on attaining man's estate, he crossed the Atlantic. He left the Old Country in a sailing-vessel in August, 1853, and after six weeks and three days spent upon the bosom of the Atlantic, Landed in New York City. He made his first location in Syracuse, N. Y., where he worked as a farm hand by the month for three years. In 1856, he emigrated Westward and took up his residence in Lincoln, Logan County, 111., where he worked at the carpenter's trade until 1867. In the meantime, Mr. Jardine was united in marriage with Miss Margaret Houston, a daughter of James and Peggy (Gilchrist) Iloustou. Tlieir union was celebrated July 4, 1858, and unto them have been born three children, all sons: Robert, a farmer now residing in Dix Township; James, who is also engaged in farming in tliesame town- ship; and John, who died in infancy. In 1867, Mr. Jardine came to Ford County and purchased eighty acres of railroad land on section -1, Dix Township, where he has since made his home. He engaged in general farming and has met with good success in his undertakings. His life has been a busy one, yet he has found time to devote to public interests and has faithfully served his fellow-citizens in official cajxacities. He is a stanch sujjporter of the Republican party, having been connected with it since he cast his tirst Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln. In an early day he was elected and served as one of the Board of Commissioners. For three years he filled the office of Township Trustee and for about seven years has been School Director. The cause of education finds in him a warm friend and he does all in his power in support of those enter- prises which are calculated to prove of public good. He has ever discharged his otiicial duties with promptness and fidelity and is recognized as a worthy and valued citizen of Dix Township. It need never be an occasion of regret to him that he left his native land for America, for in this coun- try he has found a pleasant home and met with prosperit}'. Both Mr. and Mrs. -Jardine are mem- bers of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church of Gibson, 111., and are classed amongst the best citi- zens of Ford County. Mrs. Jardine is a native of .Scotland and was a maiden of sixteen summers when she came to America. She received her education in the com- mon schools. She had four brothers and five sis- ters, of whom there are two brothers and four sisters living: Jane, the wife of Charles Thompson, resides in Joliet, 111.; Ellen, wife of Henry Bush, of Kansas, who is engaged in agriculture; .Ten- nette P., wife of James Ewart, of Colfax, Wash.; Catharine, wife of William Gilchrist, of Nebraska; William, a resident of Lincoln, Logan County, 111., is a retired farmer; James J., who is represented elsewhere in this volume. Mrs. Jardine has been a valuable helpmate of her husband during their pil- grimage of thirt3f-four years together. Miss Lizzie Ramsden, a talented young lady, h.as made her home with Mr. and Mrs. Jardine since she was a little child. She has found in them true l)arental love and affection. .She has received an excellent education, having been a student of Lincoln University and also of the Illinois .State Normal University for five terms. .She has taught successfully in Ford County for about two years, and she is now engaged as one of the corps of te.achers in the Melviu public schools. She is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church at Gibson. ■4M:;i-^- \I/ AURIN N. A.SHLEY, one of the extensive I i'(g, land-owners of Sullivant Township, resid- jl'--^ ing on section 17, was born in Stockbridge, Windsor County, Vt, on the 2d of July, 1826. His parents, Jason and Lois (Graves) Ashley, were also natives of the Green Mountain State and were of English descent. In the year 1839, they left their old home to try their fortune on the broad prairies of the West, and after forty-seven daj's of travel by team reached their destination. They j^_ liM.> PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD 791 forded the Wabash River above Terra Haute, Ind., and made a settlement in MaguoUa, Putnam County, for one year. Mr. Asliley purchased a farm in La Salle County, upon which he has since made his home. He is now ninety-six j'ears of age. His wife died about 1866. They had a family of seven children: Harrison and Dennison (twins), who died in infancy; Laurin N., of this skelcli; Amos, a farmer residing in La Salle County, 111.; Harriet, now deceased; Melinda, who has also been called to her final home; Harr}' D., who is also en- gaged in farming in Sullivant Township. Our subject was a lad of thirteen years when he came with his parents to Illinois, and since that time be has been a resident of this .State. He ac- quired his education in the common scliools of the neighborhood and remained at home aiding his father iu the labors of the farm until twenty- two years of age, when he began farming for him- self, his time thus being spent for two years. With the money he saved in that time, he then purchased one hundred and sixty acres of unim- proved land near the old homestead and upon the farm which he there developed continued to re- side until 1884. He added a two hundred-acre tract and placed the entire amount under a state of good cultivation. At the same time he carried on general farming and also engaged in stock- raising. On the 12th of July, 1843, Mr. Ashley wedded Miss Polly Densraore, daugliter of Ephraim and Alice (Hold) Densmore. B}' their union were born eight children: Ella, who died in infancy; Louis, in partnership with his father; Edwin and Elwin, both of whom died in infancy; Ellis, at home; Mary,wife of Jay Smith, a farmer of Kansas; Hattie E., at home, and Eddie, who is engaged iu teach- ing school. The mother of this family was called to her final rest January 22, 1887, and her remains were interred in the ]\It. Hope Cemetery of Sibley. In 1884, Mr. Ashley removed to Sullivant Township and established a stock farm, raising a fine grade of short-horn cattle, sheep and horses. He owns altogether thirteen hundred and seventy- five acres of laud, situated on sections 17, 18 and 9, and has one of the largest stock farms in F'ord County. He has been very successful in his busi- 32 ness career and deserves great credit, as his ])ro.s- perity is entirely the result of his own efforts. In polities, he is a supporter of the Greenback party, and is a member of the Masonic order. -^ — m — ^— JJCHARD TRIGGER, a prominent and pro- gressive farmer of Ford County, residing on section 11, Wall Township, is a native of England, born in Devonshire, March 10, 1832. His father, John Trigger, was born and reared in the same part of England, where he followed the occupation of farming and garden- ing. He there wedded Mary Quick, and their children, nine in numbw, were born in that coun- try. The family sailed from Plymouth to (Quebec in 1851, with the exception of one brother, wiio crossed the Atlantic the previous year. From Quebec tlmy went to Buffalo, and thence to Peoria, 111. After a residence there of about five years, the father died at the age of sixty-seven, his wife having died two years before, when about seventy years of age. Thej' were both laid to rest in the cemetery at Jubilee, Peoria County. Mr. Trigger and his family were members of the Episcopal Church. Of their children, John was the eldest; Mary died in Peoria County; Elizal)eth, who is still living, makes her home in London, England; William is in Peoria Count}'; the next, a son, died in England; James also lives in Peoria County; the next child died in England in in- fancy; and Richard, our subject, completes tiie famil}-. Mr. Trigger, of this sketch, attended the free schools of his ixativc country until twelve 3'ears of age, after which he worked with his father, and later was employed in carrying the mail for two j'ears in the country. When he came to America he was about nineteen years of age, and at first worked for Bishop Chase, of the Episcopal Church, on his farm near Peoria. After three years spent in this way, he rented a farm, whicii he culti- vated for himself for the period of three j'ears, after which lie removed to Stark County. He there again rented land, on whicli he lived for about twelve years, and then came to Ford County, 792 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. settling ou his present farm in the year 1869. He purchased one luuuhed and sixty acres of raw prairie land, which was entirely unimproved. He now owns three hundred and twenty acres of fine land on section 11, and one hundred and sixty on section 1, of the same township. AVheu he came to Peoria, Mr. Trigger had but one Eng- lisli sovereign and a few shillings, but by his in- domitable will, energy and enterprise, he has acquired a fine, well-stocked farm and is recog- nized as one of the substantial citizens of the community. In the s|)ring of 1855, our subject was married in Peoria County to Miss Elizabeth A. Stoves, who is a native of Durham County, England. Her parents, Jacob and Mary Stoves, were born in Durham County, her father about the year 1800. At the time of his death, he was eighty-four years of age. Mrs. Stoves is still living and is now eighty ycnvs of age, and hale and hearty. She spends the winters with her daughter, return- ing in the spring to her home in Stark County, 111. None of the family to which Jacob Stoves belonged are now living and his wife is the onlj' surviving member of her family. The father of Mrs. Trigger came to this country in 1849, work- ing for a short time in the anthracite coal regions of Pennsylvania at coal mining. He then changed his place of residence for a few months, living at Kingston, on the Illinois River, in Peoria County. He tlieu rejoined his family in Penn- sylvania, walking the entire distance, as there were no means of conveyance at that early day, arriving at Pottsville after twenty-six days. Mr. Stoves witnessed the starting of the first rail- road, and remembered well the first trip made over the road. His father and several brothers were engineers at the great coal mines in Durham, England, and the celebrated George Stephenson, the inventor of the railroad locomotive, took his first lessons in engineering of the father, and frequently consulted him on difficult questions along that line. Mrs. Trigger was one of four children, having three brothers, two of whom died in infanc}-. The remaining ones reside in the State of Washington. Mrs. Trigger crossed the Atlantic when about ten }-ears old. It is rather a coincidence that she and her future husband left England at the same time, though by differ- ent routes, and landed in America after a voyage of exactly five weeks, he landing at Quebec and she in Philadelphia. To Mr. and Mrs. Trigger was born a family of twelve children, three of whom are deceased. Those living are: Thomas, who is still on the farm at home; John, who owns a farm in AVall Town- ship on section 10, married Miss Ellen Dodd; Mary Jane, wife of William Renshaw, of Sullivant Township; Pha'be, wife of Jacob Giep, an .agri- culturist of Kansas; Jacob S., living in Nebraska; Ellen, Alice, Mabel and Lewis are still under the parental roof. William Henry, twin brother of Phoebe, died in childhood; Elizabeth died in 1869, in Ford County; James died when a child. The chil- dren all received good educational advantages in the public schools and Phoebe was in the Normal School two years at Bloomington, after which she taught school successfuUj' for one ^ear. Mr. Trigger has always supported the Repub- lican party, casting his first ballot for Lincoln. That he is a friend to education, and that he is well appreciated by his neighbors and fellow- townsmen, is shown by the fact that he has been elected by them to fill numerous positions of trust and honor. Among those we may name that of School Director, which he has held for twenty years; that of Assessor, in which capacit}' he served three years. He has also been Townshiii Commissioner of Highways for a period of twelve years. Mr. Trigger is recognized by all as a good citizen and business man of strict integrity and sterling worth. He has been the architect of iiis fortune and has builded wisely and well. Those who know him, and his acquaintances are many, liold him in the highest regard, and it is with pleasure that we present this sketch of his life to our readers. ILLIAM H. GOODWIN owns and operates one hundred and thirty acres of land on section 30, Button Township. He is a na- tive of Ohio, his birth having occurred in Haw- kins County, on the 25th of October, 1849. His W i PORTRAIT AND BlOGRAPmCAL RECORD. 793 falher, W. R. (iooilwin, was boiii in the Keystone State abont 1830, and in liis youth went to Ohio, where he was afteiwaid uniteil in marriage to Elizabeth Crawford, a native of that State. He then engaged in farming for a nnmlier of years, after which lie emigrated Westwani in 1855, loca- ting in what is now Button Townshii), Ford County, upon the land now owned and occupied by our subject. To its development, for it was then an unbroken tract, he devoted his energies until the breaking out of the late war, when he enlisted in Company E, of the Thirty-fifth Illinois Infantry, and served until peace was restored. lie i)artici- pated in all the engagements of his regiment, includ- ing the battles of Pea Kidge, Murfreesboro, Stone River and Lookout Mounbiin, and was transferred from tiie infantry to the cavalry, serving in the latter for about two years. While he was in the war, his wife died, on the •27th of April, 1862. On his return, he resumed farming on the old home- stead, where he resided until 1880. He w.as again married, in 1870, and with his wife is living in Re- public County, Kan. Our subject is the eldest of a family of six sons and two daughters, who grew to mature years. After the death of his mother, our subject resided with Martin Dudlej^ for three years, and then worked as a farm hand by the month for about two years. On his father's second marri.age, he re turned home, and for two j'ears aided in the opera- tion of the old homestead farm. On the 8th of Deceml)er, 1872, in Button Townshi(), he led to the marriage altar Miss Ella .1. Flagg, daughter of James H. Flagg, of Clarence, and one of the hon- ored pioneers of this county, where the lady was born, reared and educated. Their union has been blessed with a family of five childen: Delbert II., .Tames M., May and Fay (twins), and Grace. After his marriage, Mr. Goodwin purcha.sed a farm in Champaign County, where he was engaged in .agricultural pursuits for about seven years. In 1881, he purchased the old homestead, and it has since been his place of residence. His farm, compris- ing one liundred and thirty acres of valuable land, is pleasantly' situated about four miles south of Clar- ence. He is recognized as one of the enterprising, and successful farmers of Button Township, and is also considered one of the valued citizens of the com- munit}'. He has led an honorable .and upright life, so that he has won the confidence and regard of all with whom he has come in contact. His estimable wife is a member of the JMethodist Church. Although not a member, Mr. Goodwin is a man of strong moral character, and gives liberally to the support of the church and charitable and benevolent inter- ests. RS. MARY ANN UNDERWOOD. The ladies of our land play an important [lart •in the history of our nation, and in the an- nals of Ford County we are glad to add the sketches of some of the sterling old settlers, and especially that of ^Irs. Underwood, who resides on section 26, Peach Orcliard Township. She is a native of Yorkshire, England, and was born No- vember 18, 1827, being the sixth in a family of eleven children, numbering two sons and nine daughters. Tlie parents were William and Sarah (Taylor) Chappell. Thi-ee of the family- are now living, as follows: Catherine, wife of Daniel Booth, an agriculturist of Cook County, 111.; Mrs. Under- wood; and William Chappell, who is married and follows farming in Cook County. The father of this family was ,a native of Yorkshire, England, was educated in the common schools and became a railroad contractor. The mother was also a native of Yorkshire and was similarly educated. Mr. and Mrs. Chappell were members of the Church of Eng- land. About ]84!l, they emigrated to America, locating in Cook County, where they spent the remainder of their lives. They were grand old people and were highly respected by all. ISIrs. Underwood was reared in her native land and educated in the common schools. She is a lady of a kind and geni.al manner, and is a true friend to all. She became the wife of William Underwood, Maj- 1, 1844, in Staffordshire, England, and by this union were born eleven children, four sons and seven daughters, of whom ten are yet living: William is married and follows farming in Dix Township; Robert is married, and is also a farmer of Dix Township; Thomas is married, and 794 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. makes his home in Peach Orchard Townsliip; John resides on the old homestead; Rosa is the wife of James Campbell, a resident of Bellflower, 111., and an employe on the Illinois Central Railroad; Emma is the wife of Joseph Shilz, a farmer; Johanna, Mary A., Elizabeth and Agnes are at home with their mother. The children were provided with good educational advantages. Mr. Underwood was l)orn in Northamptonsliire, England, May 1, 1.S14, and was the third in a large family of children. AVlien he was seven years of age, his mother died, and after a few years he was apprenticed to learn the boot and shoe maker's trade. However, he left his place and went to live with a family by the name of Cooke. He remained with tliem nnlil twenty-one years of age, and dur- ing that time learned the collier's trade. He was a poor boy and had to make his own way in the world. "When he commenced life for himself, he was at the bottom of the ladder but worked his way up to success. He left to his familj' a fine farm. In 1848, Mr. and Mrs. Underwood concluded to come to America, and set sail from Liverpool on the sailing vessel "Liberty," bound for New York City. It was seven weeks and three da^'s after leaving port before they sighted land. They went direct to Chicago, and thence to Jefferson, where they remained for about three years, when they re- moved to Missouri. A short time afterward, they returned to Cook County and purchased forty acres of land. Three years later, this was sold and they became residents of La Salle County, 111., where Mr. Underwood engaged in farming until his re- moval to Ford County, in 1866. They were among the earliest settlers of this locality and saw the county in its infancy, when the undulating prairies were covered with the long prairie grass and wild flowers. Wild game was plentiful. Gibson, Mel- vin, Roberts, Elliott and Sibley were then un- known. There were no churches or schoolhouses, and Chatsworth and Loda were the nearest mar- kets at that ti me. Mrs. Underwood can well re- member the hardships of the early pioneers in this then new count}'. Mr. Underwood was a stalwart Democrat, but not an oflice-seeker. He was a man of his word and had the respect of liis many friends. Himself and wife were adherents of the Methodist faith. Mr. Underwood was taken sick in December, 1889, and after a short illness departed this life on the •26th of that month. His remains were interred in Melvin Cemetery, where a beautiful monument stands at his head sacred to his memory. The father's jilace in the family circle can never be filled and his teachings and admonitions can never be forgotten. Mrs. Underwood and some of her children reside on the old homestead, which comprises two hun- dred and forty acres of highly improved land. The familj' is well known in Ford County, and this sketch of Mr. and Mrs. Underwood will be lead by many of the best citizens of Ford County and be cherished and held sacred by their loving children when father and mother are sweetly sleeping be- neath the sod. ^ipOHN W. DICKEY, veterinary surgeon of Gibson City, and a well-known resident of that place, has the honor of being a native of Illinois. He was born in Clark County, on the 24th of September, 1854, and is a son of A. C. and Emily (Leese) Dickey, who were natives of Tennessee and Penns}lvania, respectively. In early life they removed to Clark County, 111., where their marriage was celebrated. In 1861, they became residents of Douglas County, 111., and Mr. Dickey is one of the most extensive farmers in that county. He still lives in Douglas County, at the age of seventy-two years. In his political affiliations he is a Democrat. His wife died in Oc- tober, 1889. In their family were three children: William, a farmer of Douglas County; John W., of this sketch, and Mattie the only daughter. Dr. Dickey was reared upon a farm, and edu- cated in the coramou schools and in the .Seminary in Charleston, 111., where he spent one year. At the age of twenty-five, he began the studj' of his profession with George Morgan, D. V. S., a gr.adu- uate of the school in Toronto, Canada. With him he remained one year, and then studied three years .^■jf,!^^^l^^%'.j^- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 797 with C. U. Wright, D. V. S. From boyliood he had a special liking and aptitude for veterinary prac- tice, and his aid was often called for before he took up the work as a profession. The Doctor first established himself in business in Tuscola, 111., where he ran a livery stable and practiced his pro- fession. In August. 1887, lie came to Gibson City, and has chiefly devoted himself to veterinary sur- gery since that time, although he is also interested in the breeding of Percheron horses, and owns an interest in two fine imported animals. In Tuscola, 111., on the 15tli of September, 1874, Dr. Dickey was united in ruarriage with Miss Jen- nie C. Lewis, a native of Indiana, and a daughter of J. T. Lewis. By their union have been born two children: Willie and Oltie. Jlrs. Dickey is a member of the Methodist Episco- pal Church, and is a most estimable lady. In his social relations, the Doctor is an Odd Fellow, and in politics, he is a supporter of Democratic princi- ples. He possesses natural ability in the line of his profession, concerning which he is thoroughly informed, and has thereby won a liberal patronage and secured the confidence and good-will of all with whom he has come in contact. So' JONATHAN B. LOTT, deceased, was born in Licking County, Ohio, February 14, 1839, and when eight years of age came with his ,^^_^ parents to McLean County, 111., where he grew to manhood on a farm. He was a school- mate of Gov. Fifer, and when the war broke out enlisted on the same day, in Companj' C, Thirty- third Illinois Infantry, and was with the regiment for over three jears. On the 1st of January, 1864, he veteranized and served until discharged at New Orleans, June 15, 1865. He was twice wounded; once a ball cutting across the top of his head in- flicted a scalp wound, and ere that w.as healed, contrary to the orders of the surgeon, ho ran away from the hospital and joined his regiment. A few days later he was wounded in the left arm, which partially disabled it for life. When Joe Fifer was wounded and the doctor said only ice would save his life, Mr. Lott volunteered to'make the attempt to procure it, which, though very hazardous, was successful. Gov. Fifer has often spoken of Mr. Lott as the one who saved his life. Mr. Lott was a brave soldier, ever found at his post of duty, and when discharged, held the posi- tion of Sergeant. After returning from the war, Mr. Lott attended the Wesleyan College, of Bloomingtou, 111., and in that city he was married, on the 1st of January, 1867, to Margaret A., daughter of James and ]\Iary E. (Stevenson) Gibson. Mr. Gibson was born in South Carolina, being of Swiss and Irish extrac- tion, and when seventeen years of age, went to Greene Countj^, Ohio, where he married Miss Stev- enson, who was a native of that county. He died in Greene County in 1849, but his wife, who after- ward married again and emigrated to Indianapolis, survived until 1891. Of the first marriage were two children: Margaret A., and Martha R., now the wife of Bruce McCormsick. She came to PJoom- ington, 111., in 1865, where she was joined by her sister the next year. Having married Mr. Lott, she came with him to Gibson City in 1869, and was soon after joined by her sister. The shanty, 12x14 feet in dimensions, built by Mr. Lott was the first building to mark the site of what is now Giljson City, but before winter was over he had a good frame house erected. He laid out the town in 1871, and named it Gibson, in honor of his wife's maiden name. He was instru- mental in securing the postoffice there, but as it was so much like Gilson, another town in the State, the olHcc was changed to Gibson City. He was the prime mover in securing the railroad for Gibson, and in every pulilic enterprise took an active interest. Mr. Lott was a Republican in politics, but not an office-seeker. He was very popular, much be- loved, and always in symi)atlietic touch with the poor. He was a member of the Christian Church, and died in that faith on the 18th of September, 1879. In honor of him, the Grand Army Post of Gibson Cit}' was named Lott Post, No. 70. He left no family save his wife, who is now Mrs. O. H. Damon, and is the oldest living settler of Gibson; In everything that would belter .society, he took a 798 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. deep intci-est, and was very liberal with his means. After (Tibson City was laid out, he gave his atten- tion to the real-estate business, accumulating good property. He deserves great credit, as he was a self-made man, and one of whom any community might be proud. ♦SH*= y 'ill OH N MATTHIAS MINER, residing on the northwest section of Dix Township, is the gentleman whose name heads this sketch, and is not only an honored pioneer, but a highly respected citizen of the communit}\ He has aided in the ui)l)iiilding and development of town and count}^, and well deserves representa- tion in this volume. lie was born in Byron, Ger- man}', Marcli 18, 1838. His parents, John and Barbara Miner, were married in 1836, and reared a family of six children, as follows: John M., of this sketch; Peter J., who is a carpenter of Franklin County, Ohio; Barbara, wife of Andrew Sandle- bach, a resident of Columbus, Oiiio, and a veteran of the late war; Joseph, now deceased; Michael, a teamster of Columlms, Ohio; and Lizzie, wife of Christopher Schuler. The father, John Miner, was a farmer by occupation. In August, 1840, accom- panied by his family, he sailed for America, land- ing in New York City on the 1st of September. There the family remained for three months, while the father was looking for a suitable location. Not satisfied with what they saw in the East, they wended their way Westward to Franklin County, Ohio, where Mr. Miner resided until liis death, wliich occurred March 17,1885. His wife is still liv- ing and resides on the old homestead. He led a busy and useful life. The poor and needy found in him a friend, and his benevolence won him the high regard of all. In politics, he was a Democrat, and a member of the German Catholic Church, while his wife belongs to the German Lutheran Church. His remains were interred in Green Lawn Cemeter}', in Columbus, Ohio, where a beautiful monument marks his last resting place. Our subject began his education in the Sectarian schools of Columbus, Ohio, which he attended un- til twelve years of age. He next engaged in driv- ing stock from Columbus to Champaign County, 111., for M. Ij. Sullivant, the king of farmers, mak- ing sixteen successive trips overland. In ISGl, he became foreman of the Sullivant stock farm, serv- ing as such until the fall of 1875. In the mean- time, he delivered stock to the headquarters of the Union army, and for three months was wagon mas- ter at Camp Chase. Mr. Miner has been twice married. His first wife was Miss Rosa Mabes, daughter of John and Mary Mabes. She was a native of Indiana. One child was born of this union, Rosa, now the wife of John L. Hale, a farmer of Peach Orchard Township. Mrs. Miner died December 3, 1863, and Sejitember 28, 1867, Mr. Miner married Miss Julia South- worth, who was born in Birmingham, Erie County, Ohio, and is a daughter of John R. and Anna (Acres) Southwoitli. The parents were natives of Connecticut and Pennsylvania, respectively, and were of English extraction. Bj' the union of Mr. and Mrs. ISIiner were born the following children: Addie L., Harry M., John W., Florence A., Julia F., Maj- E., Clara E. (deceased), Allen G., Bessie L. and Leslie E. Mr. Miner purchased two hundred acres of land in Dix Township, in the fall of 1871, all virgin land. In 1875, he added to the original purchase one iiundred and twenty acres in Dix Township, one hundred and sixty acres in Sullivant Township in 1890, and now has four hundred and eighty acres of well improved land, all in Dix and Sulli- vant Townships. He is a practical and progressive farmer, and deserves great credit for his success, which is due entirel}' to his own efforts. He and his wife are identified with the Methodist Episco- pal Church of Gibson, 111., and Mr. Miner affiliates with the Republican party. He cast his first Presi- dential vote for Stephen A. Douglas. He is a pub- lic-spirited and progressive citizen, who has ever borne his part in the upbuilding and development of town and county, and aided in the promotion of its leading enterprises. Mr. Miner has been identified with the public school system of his county as an active Director or School Trustee ever since 18C1, over one-quarter PORTRAIT AXD BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 799 of a century, which record has no parallel in Dix Township. He was Justice of the Peace in Sulli- vant Township for eight years, and received his commissions from Gov. Oglesby and Gov. Bever- idge. He was Assessor and Collector of SiiUivant Township for seven years. He has served as dele- gate to his county- conventions several times, so it will be seen that he truly has been a valuable and honorable citizen of Ford Count}'. Mr. Miner is a charter memlier of Lodge No. 358, I. O. O. F., at Gutlu-ie, 111., and a member of Broth- er's Encampment No. 158, and of Canton Ford No. 55, of Gibson, 111. He is an officer in all of these orders. Mrs. Miner, the present wife of our subject, is a native of Ohio, and her girlhood d.ays were spent in Cliampaign County, 111. She was educated in the public schools of Michigan, Illinois and Ohio, and was one of the successful teachers in Douglas County, 111., for some time. She has been a valuable helpmate of her husband many years, and the Miner iiousehold is known far and wide for its hospitality. Addie L., the eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Miner, is the wife of Campbell G. Brothcrton, a dealer in grain, in Guthrie, 111. They have two children, both sous, Roy E. and Floyd W. Mr. and Mrs. Brotiier- ton are members of the First Presbyterian Church of Gibson, 111. Mr. Brothcrton is a Democrat, in politics. 4^ 'fl^.HILIP EPPELSHEIMER, a prominent farmer of Wall Township residing on sec- tion 3, is of German birth. He was born on the 29th of December, 1845, in Hesse Darmstadt, and is a son of Philip Eppelsheimer, Sr., who was born and reared in the same locality. He is now seventy-three years of age and resides with our subject. B}- trade, he was a carpenter and cabinet-maker and also engaged in farming. In his native land, he served as an Artilleryman for three years. He married Margaretta Stieb, also a native of Germany, who is still living with her son. In the family are six children and two died in German}-. Those living are, Philip, of this sketch; J.acob, a resident of Oilman, 111.; George, who is engaged in farming in Wall Township; Elizabeth, wife of Joe Adams Weston, of McLean Countv; Catherine, wife of Levi Pfat,a resident of Fairbury, III., and Lewis, who is engaged in the agricultural implement business in Oilman, 111. The family came to America in 1867, sailing from Hamburg and reaching New York nine daj'S later. P'rom thence the}- went to Ottawa, 111., and after- ward came to Ford County, where the father rented a farm. He purchased land in 1871, on section 4, Wall Townsliip, where his son now resides, and where he is living a retired life. In his political affiliations, he is a Republican and himself and family are all members of the Evangelical Protest- ant Church. Our subject spent the days of his boyhood under the parental roof and in his native land learned the cabinet-maker's trade and followed farming. At the age of twenty years, he entered the Army, serving as a member of the Third Infantry for six- teen months, and participating in the war with Austria. In the battle of Hessbach, he was wounded by a gun-shot in the arm and was cap- tured and lield a prisoner for a week, but was re- leased through the intercession of the Princess of Prussia. When a }'0ung man of twenty-two years, he bade good-bye to his old home and sailed for America. He worked for his father for seven years and then purchased land — an eighty-acre tract on section 3, Wall Township, where he still resides. His landed possessions now aggregate one hundred and sixty acres, all of which are under a high state of cultiv.ation and well supplied with good build- ings and the modern improvements and accessories which go to make up a model farm of the nine- teenth century. He engages in general farming and stock-raising and is an energetic and straight- forward business man who has the confidence of all with whom he has come in contact. Mrs. Eppelsheimer bore the maiden name of Margaretta Walldorf. She was born in the same village as her husband and came to this country seven years later. Their marriage was celebrated in Ford County, January 28, 1874. They have no children of their own but have adopted two, children of the lady's sister. In politics, Mr. Eppelsheimer has been a stalwart Republican since 800 J^ORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. he cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. U. S. Grant in 1872. lie has filled the office of School Director for fifteen years and was Road Supervisor for five years, his long*eon tinned service showing that liis duties were faithfully discharged and in a prompt and efficient manner. lie is recognized as a successful farmer, as well as one of tlie leading citizens of Wall Township. A^^ EORGE W. PRESTON, an honored veteran i[ ( — , of the late war, who now owns and operates ^>^i;=^ a good farm on section 8, Dix Township, claims Ohio as tlie State of his nativity. He was born near Newark, on the 10th of November, 1839, and is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Harding) Pres- ton. The father was also a native of Ohio, and w.as of English descent, while the mother's family- was of German lineage. The f.ather's death occurred in Ma}', 18G6. Mrs. Preston is still living, at the ad- vanced age of seventy-seven years. In their fam- ily were eleven children, as follows: Mary, wife of George W. Sandford, .Judge of the County Court, and a resident of Morgan County, Mo.; George, of this sketch; Martha .T., now deceased; William N., a miller l)y trade, residing near Bloomfield, Mo.; Calista A., wife of Napoleon Wright, a farmer re- siding in Gibson City; Sarah E. and Aleatha, both of whom are now deceased; Samuel IL, a farmer re- siding in Dis Township; .Jacob, a dealer in farm implements and .Justice of the Peace of Gibson City; Henry T., a horse-dealer of Gibson City; and Wal- ter W., the youngest, is deceased. Our subject s])ent the da3'S of his boyhood and youth upon iiis fatlier's farm, and in the winter season attended the district schools until about twenty' years of age. At the age of twenty-two, he left liome and began working upon a farm by the month, but when the war broke out enlisted in 1861. He became a member of Companj' C, Sev- enty-sixth Ohio Infantry, and was mustered into service at Newark. The first engagement in which he participated was at Ft. Donelson. He after- ward met the eneni}- at the battles of Pittsburg Landing, Shiloh, Corinth, Arkansas Post, .Jackson, Miss., Black River, Canton, Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge and Ringgold, where he was wounded, a minie ball entering his left thigh, an- other his riglit leg, while the third entered the lower part of liis neck and came out under the left shoulder-blade. He was also in the siege of Vicks- burg for forty-seven d.ays. After being wounded, he was discharged on account of disability, and re- turned to his home in Ohio. When he liad partially recovered his health, Mr. Preston began working as a farm liand by the month. December 8, 1864, he was united in mar- liage with Miss Catherine, daughter of Simon and Hannah (Marple) Haas. They have no children of their own, but have an adopted son, William C. Mrs. Preston's girlhood d.ays were spent in Licking Count}', Ohio, where she was born Febru- ary 12, 1840. She was educated in the common schools. She had three brothers and three sisters: Ezra Haas, who is a resident of Wabash County, Ind., is a commercial man and is married; Harriet is the wife of Daniel Lamson, a resident of Utica, Ohio, and a farmer; Mrs. Preston is next in order of birth; the next was an infant who died; Fi-ank, a resident of Newark, Oliio, is a merchant and is married; Charlotte M. is the wife of Wilson Wright, a furniture dealer and undertaker, of Rushs^'lvania, Ohio. Slie is the joungest. Neither of Mrs. Preston's parents are living. Siie is a member of the Methodist E|)iscopal Church of Gibson and a cliarter member of tiie Woman's Relief Corps of the same place. She has been a valuable helpmate to her husband and has traveled the path of life liand in hand with him for over a quarter of a century. Mr. Preston has been a member of the School Board for nine years, which shows that he is a de- voted friend of the public schools, that bulwark of the Nation. Mr. Preston cast liis first Presidential vote for the Martyr President, Abraliam Lincoln, and has ever since been true to the principles of Republicanism. The adopted son, AVilliam C, was taken into the home of Mr. and Mrs. Preston at the age of sixteen months and found there true and loving friends whose kind and patient care lias provided ^ PORTRAIT AKD BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 803 him a comfortable and liapp}' home and given him a good, practical education. He will probably pass his life as an agriculturist. Mr. Preston continued to reside in the State of his nativitj^ until 1868, when he came with his wife to Illinois and settled in McLean County, near Blooinington. He was there engaged in farm- ing for seven years, and in 1875 came to Ford County, since which time he has resided upon his present farm on section. 8, Dix Townslnp. He there has a pleasant home and a good property. His fellow-townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, have frequentlj' called upon him to serve in public positions of trust. He filled the office of Justice of the Peace for four 3'ears, was Tax Col- lector for one year and at this writing (in the summer of 1892) is serving as Township Trustee. In his social relations, he is a member of the Grand Army Post of Gibson City. He was a loyal soldier during the late war, and has been alike true to every trust reposed in him. ^^ RAIG GILMORE, one of the extensive (l( „ land-owners and a well-known farmer of ^^^ Drummer Township, makes his home on section 26. As he has a wide acquaintance throughout the community, we feel assured that this sketch of his life will prove of interest to many of our readers. He was born in Harrison County, Ohio, January 7, 1837, and is a son of Nathaniel and Mary (Craig) Gilmore. The paternal grand- father, Samuel Gilmore, was born in County Cavan, Ireland, and when a lad came to America, fir.st lo- cating in Penns^^lvania, from which State he emi- grated to Ohio in 180.3. He married Miss Eliza- beth Buchanan, a distant relative of President Buchanan and thej' reared a family of seven chil- dren, all of whom are now deceased. During the War of 1812, he enlisted in the service of his adopted country-, and while in the service he was taken sick near Lake Michigan, and was carried to his home on a bed borne by ten of his comrades, dying four days later, September 6, 1814. Nathaniel Gilmore was born in 1803, and in the usual manner of farmer lads was reared to man- hood in Harrison County, Ohio. In November, 1828, he wedded Mary Craig, and they remained in that county until 1847, when they went to Bel- mont County, Ohio, and in the spring of 1852 re- moved to McLean County, 111., where the death of the father occurred in November, 1855. The mo- ther became a resident of Champaign Countj% III., in 1881, and on the 21st of December, 1884, was called to her final rest. They had a family of twelve children. The parents were adherents of the United Presbyterian Church and were promi- nent and highly respected people. In politics, Mr. Gilmore was a Democrat. Our subject acquired his education in the public schools of Ohio and Illinois, and under the par- ental roof remained until 1869, when he came to Ford County, since which time he has resided on the farm which is yet his home. On the 25th of March of that year, he led to the marriage altar Miss Ruth E. Riciie}-, who was born on the 30th of January, 1837, and is a daughter of John M. and Ann (Gilmore) Richey, both of whom were of Irish extraction. John M. Riche}' is a native of Harri- son Count}', Ohio, born November 2, 1808. He was reared as a farmer and acquired his education in the common schools of his native county. Mrs. Richey was a native of Jefferson County, Ohio, born April 16, 1817, and died in 1880. Their family consisted of nine children, seven of whom are yet living: Ruth E., now Mrs. Gilmore; Eliza Jane, wife of Samuel McFadden; Arabella, wife of James McFadden ; Thomas, a farmer of Cadiz, Ohio; Robert G., residing in Marj'ville, Mo.; Samuel, in Harrison Count}-, Ohio; Mattie, wife of Charles Osborne. Mr. Richey, now almost eighty-four years of age, while this sketch is being prepared is a visitor at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Gil- more. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Gilmore has been blessed with a family of five children, three sons and two daughters: PxUvin S., John R., Annie M., Ida B. and Craig M. Mrs. Gilmore is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Gilmore has been one of the influential men in the ei'ection of the beautiful church edifice in Gibson, 111. In politics, Mr. Gilmore is a Democrat and has held the offices 804 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. of School and Township Treasurer for fifteen years, his long continued service attesting his faithful performance of duty. He is a large landowuei', and is a man of good business ability, sagacious and far-sighted, and ithasljeen principally through his own efforts that he has won his excellent success. He is one of those oi)en-liearted and generous men, who is well liked and respected b}' his many friends. jf? EWIS E. BKESSIE. Among the well-known I (^ business men of Roberts, 111., none are /J L^i more worthj' of representation in this volume than the gentleman whose name heads this sketch. Mr. Bressie is a native of Washington County, Ind., was born April 17, 184.5, and is a son of William F. and Ann (Finger) Bressie. His father was a native of Virginia, and was reared in that State and North Carolina until the age of twenty-two years. He learned the trade of a boat- carpenter, but spent the most of his life as an agri- culturist. He was born March 8, 1808, and was educated in the coniinon schools. He died July 9, 1880, in Washington Countj-, Ind. The mother of our subject was born in North Carolina, March 15, 1815, was reared in Indiana, and died August 12, 1884. Both were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Bressie, our subject, spent his boyhood days in Washington Count}', Ind., and his education was acquired in the common schools. He was reared as an agriculturist until the age of twenty- two years. He was one of the heroes of the Civil War, enlisting in Company C, One Hundred and Seventeenth Indiana Infantry, in April, 1863, un- der Capt. Stephen B. Sales, who afterward com- manded the regiment. Mr. Bressie was engaged in guard duty at Indiauaiiolis, from there went to Camp Nelson, Ky., and then marched through to Greenville. Tenn., to meet Gen. Johnson, the noted Rebel commander. He thence returned to Bulls Gap, afterward went to Cumberland Gap, and later to near Knoxville to do guard duty during the siege. Their object was to keep Gen. Longstreet from entering Kentucky. This was the army life and record of Mr. Bressie until his term expired. From Strawberry Plains, the brigade went to Bean's Station, and here the regiment was sur- rounded by the Rebels. In the skirmish, seven of Mr. Bressie's company and twenty-three of the regiment were captured. On tlie 5th of December, 1863, the regiment again met Gen. Longstreet's army near Blaine's Cross Roads in Tennessee. The}' were held in check until Christmas Day, then returned to Strawberry Plains to guard Knoxville in keeping Longstreet's army back; here they remained until the cold New Year's Day so well remembered b}' the soldiers, thence went to Cum- berland Gap, where two-thirds of the regiment were bare-footed and without overcoats. All Mr. Bressie had on his feet that cold day during the march of twent3'-three miles was a pair of soles fastened with thongs of hide, and two-thirds of the regiment were in the same condition. He le- enlisted, January 25, 1865, in Company C, One Hundred and Forty-fourth Indiana Infantry, for one year. The regiment was sent from Indian- apolis to Harper's Ferry and there his division, un- der Gen. Hancock, was ordered to Winchester, where they remained until tiie close of the war, when our subject was honorably discharged, Aug- ust 12, 1865, near Winchester. On the 4th of January, 1866, Mr. Bressie mar- ried Miss Sarah Ann Supplee, daughter of Edward and Rebecca (Griffiths) Supplee. Thej- were mar- ried near Salem, Ind., at the home of Mrs. Bressie's parents, and by their union have been born three children, two sons and a daughter: Albert J., who wedded Miss May Moore, is an engineer on the Illinois Central Railroad. Charles E., who engaged with the same company, has been faithful to his duties and is a trusted employe. He wedded Miss .Jennie Hawthorne. Minnie Bertha died at the age of six years, four months and six days. Mrs. Bressie was born June 30, 1840, in Beaver County, Pa., and was educated in the common schools. She was reared in her native State until thirteen years of age, when she became a resident of New Albany, Ind. She was the eighth in a family of ten children, and with tlie exception of herself all are now deceased. Her father and mo- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 805 ther were natives of Pennsylvania. The former was born March 17, 1803, and died December 24, 1878. lie was an ornamental i)lasterer by trade and worked in Pittsburg, Cincinnati and Louis- ville. In religious faith, he was a true Baptist, was a man of known integrity, whose word was as good as his bond, and he was highly regarded by all. His wife was born March 26, 1802, and died June 9, 1882. She was a r>ai)tist in religious belief, was an educated lady and a woman of more than ordinary talent and ability. Mr. Supplee was intei'red in Mill Creek Ccmeterj', AVashington County, Ind. After the death of her husband, Mrs. Supplee made her liome with Mrs. F)rcssie and there died. Her remains were interred in the cemetery of Roberts. Mrs. Bressie has in her possession two valuable pieces of needle-work. One of these, worked on satin, is supposed to have been made in 1773, and the other, on linen, was made in 1798. These are among the oldest relics in Ford County. The age of these has made them very valuable and Mrs. Bressie was ofifered $50 for the satin piece, which was wanted for the Centennial of 1876. Mr. Bressie emigrated to Ford County in 1874, located in Roberts and followed his trade of plas- tering until 1885. In that year, he emliarkcd in the boot and slioe and harness business, which he continued until the spring of 1888, when he sold out and bought a general store of the old firm known as Flora it Newman, who had been general merchants for some years. Mr. Bressie embarked in general merchandising in 1888, and he has been one of the pushing merchants of Roberts ever since. By his fair dealing and honest treatment of his many patrons, he is doing a good business year by year. He is known as a man of integrity, and his courtesy to all is sure to win for him success. Mr. Bressie is a Republican in his political senti- ments and cast his first Presidential vote foi- R. B. Hayes. He has been actively connected with the upbuilding of his county's interests and has been a delegate a number of times to his count}' conven- tions, and has filled the position of chairman of Lym.an Township Republican Central Committee. He .icled as .lustice of the Peace in tiie township of Lyman for al)Out four years. .Socially, Jlr. Bressie is a member of the Masonic lodge of Gib- son City. He was first a memlier of Buckley Lodge in 1874. He also holds membership witli the (irand Army Post No. 500, of Melvin, and is a chaiter member of Lyman Lodge No. 293, Knights of Pythias, of Roberts. He has held imi)0rtant of- fices in this tiiriving order. Mrs. Ihessie is a member of the Congregational Church of Roberts. They are el.assed among tiie representative and honored citizens of Lyman Township and are held in high regard by all for their sterling wortli and integritv. 'JIIOHN A. PENCE, dealer in drugs, medi- cines, jiaints, oils, and wall-|)aper in Gibson ^,.^1 , C'ity, is a native of Ohio. He was born in '^^d^'' Adams County on the 26th of January, 1859, and is a son of F. S. and Sarah J. (McNeil) Pence, both of whom were also natives of the Bucke3'e State. In tlie family were only two chil- dren, our subject and a sister. Tiie father is a car- penter bj' trade. In 1867, he came to Illinois, locating in De Witt County, and in 1884, he went to Edwards Count}', Kan., where he and his wife still reside. The subject of this sketch was a lad of about eight summers when lie came with his parents to Illinois. His education was acquired in the schools of Kenney, DeWitt County, and during the sum- mer months he worked on a farm for some five or six years. AVIien about seventeen }'ears of age, he entered a drug store as salesman and has been connected with that line of business continuously since. After clerking in Kenney for several years, he managed a store for W. McCraig, in Beason, for about a 3"ear, when the store was sold. Through the aid of his former employer, he became man- ager of a store in Cooksville, McLean County, re- maining in charge for about a 3"ear, when that store was sold. In July, 1884, Mr. Pence came to Gibson C'lty and began clerking for Drs. Ragsdale & Baughman, who were then running a drug store. Having clerked until Septemher 23, 1887, lie ac- 806 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. quired a half interest in the business, tlie firm he- coming Ragsdale & Pence. In April, 1889, our subject bought out his partner's interest and lias since been sole proprietor. Mr. Pence was married on the 16th of June, 1887, to Miss P'annie F. Canterbury, a native of Illinois. She is a most estimable lady and is a member of the Christian Church. The young couple are well and favorabl3' known in tliis com- munity, wliere they have many friends. In his i)olitical alliliations, Mi. Pence is a Demo- crat, and, socially, is a member of the Modern "Woodmen of America. Through courtesy and close attention to liusiness, he has secured a liberal patronage and has won general confidence. lie is a progressive young business man and deserves success in his chosen work. ~i^=' — ■^T, '^'=^^^' ERNi:ST a. REINIFARDT, M. D. The pro- fessional man is one of the important fac- tors in the personnel of a community, and the physicians, especially, should be represented, so we here record the life sketch of Dr. E. G. Kein- hardt of L^'inan Township, one of the leading and rising pliysicians of Ford County, who stands high in his profession, as well as a gentleman and citi- zen, lie is a native of Golconda, Pope County, 111., and was born Septemlier 7, 186.3, and was the sixth in a family of eight children, viz: five sons and three daughters, born unto Carl Frederick and Willielmina (Schmidt) Reinhardt. There are four of the children living: Charles A., resides in Gol- conda, 111., and by trade is a contractor and builder. At present he is engaged in the furniture business. He is married. The Doctor is next in order of birth living; Clara W. is the wife of Sim V. Clana- han, who resides in Golconda, 111. He is editor and publisher of the Hernkl Enterprise, a newsy, folio weekly paper; Robert resides in Paducah, Kj'., and is engaged in merchandising. His father was a native of the city of Dresden, Germany, and was born December 4, 1823, and died November 1, 1877. He was a polished gentleman in culture and education and spoke with fluency five different languages. He was a finished student in the gym- nasium. By profession he was a landscape de- signer, who stood high in his native land in his chosen occupation. We clip from a diploma which was awarded him in Germany: "This certifies to the fact that Carl F. Reinhardt was for three years Associate Landscape Gardener with Frederick Muller to Fabian Frederick William Otto, Count of Schlabrendorf Seppan, and that he stood in high favor with the Count, as well as his associate, having thoroughlj' mastered the art of landscape gardening, as well as having acquired a thorough knowledge of the flora of that region." His father's early life and manhood were mostly spent in the beautiful city of Dresden. At the age of thirty-one, he and his family, consisting of his wife and three sons, bade adieu to their native land in 18,54, and set sail for America, and they landed in the city of Baltimore, JNId. Thence they went to Cincinnati, and from there to Southern Illi- nois, and located on a farm near Golconda, remain- ing there until 1856, when they came into the town to reside. He was a stanch friend to education and all those measures which tend to elevate mankind. He devoted his time while a resident of Illinois to the culture of flowers. He and his wife were mem- bers of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Reinhardt was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fel- lows. He was a stanch Democrat in his political belief. In his younger days he was a tnivelcr of some note, mostly over continental F^urope. The mother of the Doctor was a well-educated lady in her native tongue. She was a native of Roitzsch, Germany, and was born September 9, 18.30, and died January 16, 1883. The remains of the Doctor's parents are interred in the Odd Fellows' Cemetery at Golconda, 111., and beautiful head- stones mark their last resting place. Dr. Rein- hardt's early boyhood days were spent upon the farm until tiiree years of age, when his parents came to the town to reside, where he remained un- til the age of seventeen, and his time was devoted chiefly to attending school. Like many ambitious boys, the Doctor resolved to launch out in life on his own natural resources, so at the age of seventeen, he left home, and all the capital he had was tiiat en- ergetic disposition to make things move. His first ^^gye^ ^-rm ! I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 809 time was taken up as a typo in a printing office He returned home after an absence of two and a half years, and engaged with his brother in mer- cantile life. After remaining for a time, he then engaged witli the large nulling firm of Nordyke, Marmou & Co., of Indianapolis, Ind., where he was employed a portion of each year for seven years with this well-known firm. The Doctor is a gentleman who possesses much natural ability and acumen, and this well-known firm found in _young Rein- hardt a valuable man. Industry, energy and au indomitable will are the cardinal characteristics of a successful man's life. Up to this time he liad been engaged in the business channels of life; now he resolved to enter a professional life, and chose the field of medicine and surgery. He read medicine under the eminent practitioner, Dr. J. .1. Boone, of Mt. Victor}', Ohio, where he made rapid progress. He entered the Rush Bledical College of Chicago, in September, 1888, where he took a full and com- plete course in medicine and surgery, and, as a side study, he took a thorough course, under Prof. Thurman W. Brophy, in Dental Pathology and Surgery. He graduated March 30, 1891, in a class of over two hundred. After his graduation, he paid his old home a visit, ere he settled down to his professional life. He came to Roberts, 111., April 28, 1891, where he has laid the solid founda- tion of a large and lucrative practice. The Doc- tor has made a most favorable impression on the people of the vicinity of Roberts, by his courteous and gentlemanly decorum, as well as by his skill in his profession. He is associated with W. H. .Bend in the drug Inisiness, carrying a full line of staple drugs, oils, and all commodities which go to make up a good drug store. He is public-sjjirited and generous to all. He is Chancellor Ctmimander of the K. of P. Lodge No. 293, Roberts, 111. Dr. Reinhardt'sand Miss Mamie Hales' wedding was celebrated May 31, 1891. She is a daughter of Dr. S. F. Hale, and was born January' 5, 1866, in Bunker Hill, 111. She is an accomplished lady. She was a student at St. Mary's Academy for two years, at Notre Dame, Ind., and spent two years at the New England Conservatory of Music, at Boston, Mass. She was a student in vocal music with W. L. Whitney, son of Myron W. Whitney, of musical fame. Mrs. Dr. Reinhardt is one of a family of five brothers and one sister. Dr. and Mrs. Reinhardt are classed among the most prominent citizens of the town of Roberts, 111. J^ He was ETEIv .1. Y EAGER, a general merchant of Guthrie, 111., is one of the leading busi- ness men of Ford County, and is too well known to need any special introduction. )orn in Franklin County, Ohio, April 10, 1859, and is the eldest child in a family of six sons and one daughter, all of whom are now liv- ing, as follows: Mr. John W. Yeager resides in West Jefferson, Ohio, is a merchant and is married; August resides in Derby, Ohio, and is also a mer- chant and married; ]\Iary E. resides on the old homestead with her parents near Columbus, Ohio; Michael L, a resident of Guthrie, 111., and engaged in agricultural pursuits, is married; Christ J., a resident of West Jefferson, Ohio, is a clothing merchant; Stephen A., who is the youngest of the children, is a resident of Guthrie, III., and is en- gaged with his brother Peter. The father of our subject, Peter Y''eager, Sr., was born in Bavaria, Germany, in the year 1830. He is a gentleman of finished education, having graduated from the German High Schools. After spending six years of iiis life in the Gcnman army, he concluded to seek his fortune in America, so, early in the spring of 1858, he and Mrs. Yeager set sail from Bremen direct to New Y'ork, thence to Columbus, Ohio, then known as Franklinton. Landing in the United States almost penniless, his German spirit of industry and economj- soon won for liim wealth and a place in the walks of life worthy of the industrious adopted American citizen. For the first several years in America he worked at his trade, that of a boot and shoe maker, then followed farming for a couple of 3'ears, and was then engaged in merchandising for sixteen years. He was very successful in his business, and has lately retired in good circumstances. He is still living at the age of about sixty-two years. • The mother of our subject, whose maiden name 810 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. was Mary Ness, is also living at the age of sixty- one years. The boyhood days of our subject were spent as a salesman. He was early initiated into the chan- nels of mercantile life, and those principles were thoroughly grounded in his composition which formed the foundation of his successful career as a merchant. He spent five years of his life running a grocery wagon, which shows that he was ever ready to do anything to turn an honest penny. He received his education in the common schools and commenced the voyage of life for himself at the age of twenty with only a capital of 1500. He left his native State to locate in the West and selected Guthrie, 111., as his base of future opera- tions. He opened up business with a little grocery store, April 21, 1879, and here he has remained continuously by his business, with that push, indus- try and determination which are his cardinal characteristics. He has since added to his little capital of 1500, until now the volume of his property aggregates $17,000. His present stock of merchandise is es- timated at 15,000. Mr. Yeager is also proprietor of the Guthrie Creamery and owns three hundred and twenty acres of tillable land in Dix Township, and other property, all of which testifies to his enterprise and push during his residence in Ford County since 1879. He is a fair, square-dealing business man, sagacious and practical, and enjoys the entire confidence of his numerous patrons. He married Miss Mary Weller December 6, 1881, and there have been born to this union two sons and three daughters: Frederick P., Grover C, Irene E., Valeria II. and Mary E., all of whom are now living. Mrs. Yeager is a daughter of George Weller, a native of Germany. He was for many years a resident of Ford County', now of Nebraska. Mrs. Y'eager was educated in the common schools. vShe has three brothers and one sister. The eldest is Lena, wife of .Tohn Ernest, who is City Engineer of Hoopeston, 111. .John Weller resides in Ne- braska, follows farming and is married; Mrs. Yeager is next; George and Henry, the youngest, live in Nebraska. Mr. Yeager has alw.ays been an ardent supporter of the Democratic party .and cast his first Presiden- tial vote for Gen. Win field S. Hancock. lie is a gentleman who has been very pronounced in his political views but not so radical as to interfere with his business. He has always been held in high esteem by his friends and commands their respect. Mr. Yeager was the efficient Postmaster of Guth- rie, 111., for twelve years. He received his com- mission from President Hayes and was the incum- bent of the office from 1879 to 1891. He served under Hayes, Garfield, Arthur, Cleveland and a part of Harrison's term of administration. He tendered his resignation in the year 1888, which was not accepted until 1891. He served as School Director for two years and is one of the board at present. He was elected Supervisor of Dix Town- ship in the spring of 1892, on the People's ticket, which conclusively shows him to be a popular cit- izen. He has proven an active and energetic mem- ber of the board and is on more committees than any member of the board. He aims to represent his people to the best of his ability. He h.as filled the position of delegate to the Dem- ocratic State conventions, as well as delegate to his county conventions, and was Chairman of the county convention of Ford Count}' in 1892. He is a member in high standing of the I .(). (). F., of Guthrie, 111., also a leading member of the En- campment and Canton Ford, of Gibson, 111. HARLES A. COOK, who for twenty-two ., years has resided in this county, is nowen- ^^f^ gugod in farming on section 30, Pella Town- ship, where he owns a fine farm of one hundred and twent}' acres. His pleasant residence is sur- rounded by good barns and other necessarj- out- buildings, which in turn lie in the midst of well tilled fields which yield to him a golden tribute in return for his care and cultivation. Every im provement upon the place is the work of his own hands and indicates his thrift and enterprise. Mr. Cook is a native of London, Province of Ontario, Canada. He was born Novembers, 1845, and is a son of Charles and Rosetta (Root) Cook. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 811 His father was born in England, and when twenty- one j'ears of age crossed the Atlantic lo Canada, where he was employed in a wholesale store in Hamilton for some time. He was there married and his wife died about 1851. In 1857, he came to Chicago, where he engaged in the real-estate business for a time and then removed to St. Louis. He afterwards returned to New York City, where he held the position of Superintendent of the Howard Mission. He is now living near London, Canada, with a daughter. The children of the family are Charles of this sketch; George, who is living in North Dakota; and Mrs. Mary F. Pember- ton. a widow who resides at Camden, on Lake Huron. Our subject spent the first twelve j^ears of his life in Canada, and then removed to Chicago, where lie began life for himself. He spent one year in a law office in that city, after which he went to a farm in Sandwich, 111., and was engaged in agricultural pursuits for fourteen years. On the 11th of December, 1870, he married Angeline Dean, who was born in Sandwich, and is a daughter of Nelson and Sarah Dean, both of Pennsylvania. They are now deceased. In the spring of 1871, Mr. Cook came with his young wife to Ford County, and purchased the farm on which he now makes his home. In July, 1877, Mrs. Cook was called to her final rest, after which our subject married Carrie Mon- telius, daughter of Ed. ]\Iontelius. She died in 1883, leaving two children: Charles, now thir- teen j'ears of age; and Mary eleven years of age. In the spring of 1884, Mr. Cook was married in Piper City to Minnie Montelius, a sister of his second wife. She was born in Freeport, 111., but was reared in Piper City, where her parents re- moved in 1879. Three children have been born of this union: Anna Bertha, born in August, 1885; Mertie, born in December, 1887; and.Josie, born in June, 1891. Mr. Cook is a member of the Masonic fraternity of Piper Cit}', and his wife belongs to the Method- ist Church. He cast his first Presidential vote for Grant in 1868, and has since been a Republican. He has often served as delegate to tlie conventions of his party and is a warm advocate of its princi- ples. He h.as served as Commissioner of Highways for thirteen years and has been Treasurer. He started out in life for himself at the age of twelve and since that time has been dependent on his own exertions. Whatever success he has achieved in life is due to his unaided efforts. His persistent industry, enterprise and good management have won him a comfortable competence and his life may well be regarded as a successful one. ^^ c^^^^HE FIRST NATKJNAL BANK, of Paxton, the only National Bank in Ford County, was incorporated May 7, 1883, with a capi- tal of $50,000. The incorporators were S. B. Bush- nell, W. H. Holcomb, L N. Perry, A. Sample, D. A. Frederick, J. P. Day and J. B. Shaw. The first officers were President, S. B. Bushnell; Vice-President, J. P. Daj'; Cashier, J. B. Shaw. On the 12th of January, 1892, ISIr. Bushnell sold his interest and retired, and J. B.Shaw was elected President, F. L. Cook succeeded Mr. J. P. Day as Vice-President, in 1884, and A. S. Bushnell suc- ceeded J. B. Shaw as Cashier in 1892. Tiiese last mentioned are the present officers of tiic bank, while the present Board of Directors is composed of the following named gentlemen: F. L. Cook, C. A. Larson, Dr. S. M. Wylie, W. II. Holcomb and J. B. Sh.iw. The bank has declared since its organization dividends to the amount of $40,000, and now has a surplus of $10,000, and is in a prosperous condi- tion. II AWRENCE McGRAIL, a well-known farmer and stock-raiser of Drummer Town- ship, residing on section 28, w.as born in Ireland, in 1827, and is one of a family of nine children born unto John and Mary (Kane) IMc- Grail. They were natives of the same count3' as our subject and were there reared .ind married. Of their family, Patrick and John arc now de- ceased; Miciiael is the next younger^ Austin is 812 PORTRAIT AKD BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. also deceased; Richard; James has passed from this life; Lawrence, Charles; and two children, both of whom bore the name of Mary, are deceased. The father of this familj' was a farmer and fol- lowed that occupation throughout his entire life. He and his wife never left tlie old home, hut silent their entire lives in their native land. IJoth were members of the Catholic Church. We now take up the personal history of Law- rence McGrail, who acquired his education in the schools of liis native land and remained under tlie parental roof until thirty-two jears of age. He tlien married, in 1859, the lady of his choice be- ing Maria O'Mally, also a native of the Emerald Isle and a daugliter of Patrick O'Mallj-. By their union have been liorn nine children, as follows: Michael, now a resident of W.ashington ; Patrick, deceased; Mary and Nora, who are residents of St. Louis; John, James, Charles, Lawrence and Ella. It was in 1865 that Mr. ]Mc(jrail, .accompanied by his family, bade good-bye to their old home and crossed the broad Atlantic to America. He made his first location in Chicago, 111., and worked on the railroad for seventeen ^'earsas section fore- man, being emploj'ed by the Burlington Railroad Company. On the expiration of that i)eriod, he re- moved to Ford County and has since resided in Drummer Township, where he has a pleasant home. In connection with farming, he is engaged in rais- ing fine liorses, and has some very fine animals upon his pLace. In politics, !Mr. McGrail supports the Republi- can part3% but is not strict! >• partisan, holding himself free to vote for tlie candidate wliom lie thinks best cpialified for the office. Himself and wife hold membership witii the Catholic Church. Our subject need never regret his removal to this coiinti V, for here he has found a pleasant home, made manj' warm friends and has secured a comfort- able competence which numliers him among the substantial citizens of the community. BIOGI^p^F^I^spI^- Adams, John 2;^ Adams, John Q 39 Aid, Lewis 713 Allgaier, Rev. J 309 Amm, John C 370 Anderson. Andrew I) 536 ^Vaderson, Christopher 137 Anderson, Swen 441 Andrews, Benjamin C 591 Andrews, Daniel H 241 Andrews, J. H 725 Arends, George T 449 Arends.Teis 393 Arnold, A. S 7»i5 Arthur, Chester A 99 Ashby, Charles 509 Ashley, L. N 786 Atwood, Henry 267 B Baare, David 683 Babcock. Edward 415 Baker, W. A 522 Baker, William ; 333 Barker, Jesse G 714 Barrow, Hamilton J 482 Beach, Judge H. P 754 Beardsley, F. W 225 Beighle, K. B 2fl(i Bell, John D 731 Bell, Samuel 5H8 Benson, Henry 02(5 Bernhardt, J. G 103 Beveridge, John L 171 Bicket, William A 211 Bishop, Capt. L. N 732 Bishop, Lucas T 315 Bissell, William H 151 Blackmore, James 477 Blackstock, Robert 343 Blake, Anselm T 700 Blesch, Jacob 2C6 Bloom, Isaac 567 Boal, D. A KU Bogardus, Col. Charles 271 Bond, John 785 Bond, Shadrach 1 1 1 Bond, William 380 Bowen, P. C., .MR Bowen, W.H. 727 Bremer, A. P 304 Bressie, L. E 804 Broadbent, John 1M7 Brock, Henry 282 Brown, Aaron 28!) Brown, Joseph J 310 Buchanan. James 75 Bucbholz, August 291 Buchholz, Charles 455 Buchner, C. J 377 Bulger, John 745 Bullington, A C 772 Bunker, John E 281 Bui-ger, Joseph 651 Burns, William W 579 Cain, Thomas W 514 Campbell, Dr. J. Y .'ilfl Campbell. O. L 417 Campbell, William A 314 Carlin, Thomas 135 Carlson, C. F 430 Carpenter, Henry S .582 Catron, Arthur S 303 Chambers, R. B 667 Chapin, Dr. Charles E nu4 Clark, Remembrance .545 Clarke, Alex 614 Clayton, John 618 Clem, Jeremiah 386 Cless, J. J 200 Cleveland, S. Grover 103 Climpson, Richard 746 Clinebell, Prof. Koscie 2.55 Coal, P. A 207 Coles, Edward 115 Collier, Hon. J. H 385 Colwell, Michael 771 Conger, CM 304 Cook, Charles A 810 Cook. F. L 217 Cook, Col. H. D 260 Coomes, Ammon 226 Cooper, James Alfred 357 Corbly, Lindsey 571 Co.x, Michael 661 Cramniond. James E 232 Crandall, C. C 6SS Crandall, H. A 194 Crawford, James 673 Cruzen, Randolph 507 Cubbuck, Judson 464 Cue, Thomas 199 Culbertson , Dr. S. D .565 Cullom, Shelby M 175 Culter, Dr. F. O 274 Curd, Charles 719 Currie, William (89 D Dahlgren, Nils 514 Dally, Dr. H. M 748 Damon, O.H 4a5 Daniels, Stacy 535 Davis, F. S .554 Day, John P 337 Day,N. B 344 Day, Samuel 332 Day, Samuel L .:tt5 Denman, Dr. De Kalb 229 Dickey , J. W 794 Diers, Henry 231 Dolan.M. H 237 Dougherty, John Y 521 Down, C. W 587 Drendel, Frank S 766 Dueringer, Rev. Henry 7.58 Duncan, Joseph 131 Dunham, J. C 520 Dunnan, Hugh 779 Durham, W illiamT 719 Dwyer, Daniel 529 Dysert, James 727 E Edwards, Ninian 119 Elliott, W. H. H 541 Emmons, Samuel 220 Enoch, Elmer 366 Eppelsheimer, Philip 799 Essington, George 704 Essington, John 695 Ewing, William L. D 127 Fagerburg, Frank B 243 Falter, Louis .585 Farley, Dr. Isaac P 769 Farlin, Joseph 2!i2 Farrar, Dr. L. B 426 Felhvock. Charles A 273 Fifer, Joseph W 183 Fillmore, Millard B7 First Nat'l Bank of Paxton..8Il Flagg, James H 4tt5 Flora, W. B 717 Fogar, Charl 562 Foley, James B 553 Ford Coimty Bank 381 Ford , Thomas 139 Foreman, Prof. D. G 674 Forney, H. A 682 Frederickson, Gustave 411 French, Augustus C 143 Fuoss, Jacob 607 Gardner, Edward A 451 Garfield, James A 95 Gash, William T 6:12 Gerdes, Gerd 700 INDEX. Gilkeson, J. W 639 Gilmore, Albert 753 Gilmore, Craig S03 Gilmore, William 746 Glass, George W 599 Glenn, Theophilus M 620 Goodman, John 702 Goodwin, W.H 792 Granger, John F 725 Grant, Ulysses S 87 Green, David W 624 Gregory, H. L 451 Grove, George oCi H Hagin, Jol^n E 706 Han,H.C 545 Hall, James D 236 Hamer, Frederick 488 Hamilton, John M 179 Hand, Ira W 701 Hanley, J.M ...515 Harrison , Benjamin 107 Harrison, William Henry — 51 Harry, E.H 720 Harvey, Eli 533 Hatteberg, John A 7W Haupt, George W 3.54 Hayes, CO 33S Hayes, Rutherford B 91 Henderson, J. C 484 Herron, J. W 612 Hevener, Robert 623 Hilborn, Calvin 676 Hock, James 244 Hollen, Peter 769 Holmes, Christian 690 Holmes, John H 283 Holmes, William B 409 Holmgrain, Rev. O. V 411 Holmquest, S. 1 443 Hoover, W. A 399 Hopkins, A. S 566 Houston, James J 784 Hughs, John 778 Hummel, John 617 Hunt, Enoch S 2.')7 Hunt, John S 475 Hunt, W.J 660 Hunter, William H 488 Hurst, Joseph 680 Hurst, William 327 Huston, W.S 777 Hutchison, William A 238 lehl, John 423 1mm, Michael 291 Jackson, Andrew 43 Jackson, Jam^s 516 Jardine, Robert 785 Jellcrson, Thou as 27 Jeffery, Thomas P 648 Jennings, Columbus .588 Johnson, .\ndrew 83 Johnson, F. J.. 3.51 Johnson, G. w'. B 5,56 Johnson, JohnS 398 Joos, John 741 Jones, Joseph K 770 Jordan, Andrew 279 K Karr,j9hn, 429 Karr, Robert M 699 Keetfe, John 592 Keighin, David 760 Keitzmann, Reinhold A 560 Keitzmann, William 3?^0 Kelso, Dr.E.L 510 Kelso, Dr. H. A 212 Kemp, James 638 Kemp, Nicholas M 418 Kenney.JohnF 605 Kenney. William 218 Ken ward, John C 326 Kerchanfaut, John 745 Kerns. Emanuel 481 Kiblinger, S.H 290 Kimler,A. H .'^73 King, Joseph V 392 Kirkpatrick, J. C 540 Kjellstrand, A. \V 4.58 Kneale, William .586 Koestner, Paul 243 Lamb, Wallace S 236 Laiidel,W. P 626 Larson, Peter 397 Larson, Theodore J 477 Leach, J. B 527 Le Fevre, S. J 490 Le Fevre. Dr. W. C. M 478 Leininger, Henry H 305 Leonard, John H 780 Lewis, John R 633 Lincoln, Abraham 79 Linn, J. C 6.59 Litwiller, Peter 581 Lohman, Franz Gottlieb 379 Lott, J.B 797 Lowry, Emanuel 391 Ludlow, James D 405 Lyman, E. H 316 Lynch, Thomas J 701 Lytle, Seth 306 M Madison, James 31 Main, Peter f>80 Marsh, Jesse P 198 Marshall, Joseph N 747 Mason, Benjamin F 438 Matteson, Joel A 147 Mattinson, Evan 229 Mattinson, Wilson i% Co 5(12 Maxson, A. C 286 McBride, James 7:i4 McClure, B. H 258 McClurc, Rev. E. S 297 McCracken. David P 487 McCracken, Rev. Robert 494 McDermott, Thomas 688 McElroy, Judge A 561 McGrail, Lawrence 811 McLaughlin, Abner 705 McKeever, Caleb 617 McKinney , John 280 Mc Kinney, Jo.seph 682 McMullen, William E 424 McNeish, Thomas 247 Mellinger, J. D 298 Meharry, Hugh 391 Melvin Public Schools 193 Merrill, James H 783 Metcalf, David 759 Middlecoff, Hon. J. P 367 Miller, 1. C 608 Miller, Prof. E. H 201 Miller, Levi 328 Miller, William, M. D 713 Minch , George 633 Miner, John M 798 Mitchinson, Joseph 606 Motlett, John H 223 Moffett, Robert M 502 Motfett, William S 521 MoUoy. Jaraes 766 Monroe, James 35 Montelius, J. A 320 Montz, John H 364 Morris, John 400 Morrison, W. T 331 Mottler, Albert E 778 N Nelson, Andrew J 404 Newhart. M. W 354 Newkirk, Reuben 3U1 Newlin, Samuel W 555 Newmau, David 321 Newman, John 397 Nordgren , Charles A &48 o Oglesby , Kichaid J 163 Olsson, Rev. Eric P 534 OMahony, Rev. B. E 619 Oppermaun, August 679 Ortlepp, John 388 Otto, Michael 638 Palmer, John M 167 Papineau, Peter 217 Patton, Hon. David 266 Patton, Mrs. Jane 503 Patton, William T 410 Pearce, C. C 334 Pells, William H 191 Pence, J. A 805 Perdue, William 694 Peters, John 768 Peterson, Swan :i33 Phebus, William 572 Phillips, Alfred 202 Phillips, A. L 258 Phillips, J. R 230 Phipps, Mrs. John 693 Pierce, Franklin 71 Polk, James K .59 Pollock, Robert 339 Pool, Albert J 368 Powell, William 432 Preston, George W 800 Proctor, Capt. Willard 659 Proctor, W.E 197 R Randall, George .594 Randies, Samuel G 547 Rasmus, Peter 412 Rawlings, H. C :t46 Reed, Dr. J. W 504 Keed, Thomas 598 Keep, David 340 Reinhardt.Dr. E. G 806 Kemsburg, Carlton 1 308 Reynolds, John 123 Rezener, J. K 567 Rice, Edwin 319 Richmond, Joseph 726 Rierson, Christ 740 Ringeisen, Charles 580 Roberts, James. 513 Roberts Public Schools 463 INDEX. Rockwood, L. E 394 Kockwooil, H. B 568 Bohrbach , John 295 Ross, Timothy 369 Rowan, Thomas 6ii<> Saokett.Orville D S28 Sample, Hon. Alfred 205 Saxton, J. 1 645 Schiuik, Louis 624 Scott, John A 600 Scott, Thomas 69fi Sears, Nathan L 574 Shambrook, Robert 282 Sharp, Frank E 2.W Shearer, Lewis 742 Sheldon, James 593 Shilts, John 728 Shirley, Oliver A 703 Shoop, Prof . John D 20S Sibley Estate 387 Sibley Public Schools 652 Sideainger, Hiram Y 307 Simms, William H till Siverling, D. E 470 Skoft, John 444 Smith, A. S 468 Smith, James F 442 Smith, John P 378 . Smith, John W H68 Smith, R.G 476 Snelling, James H 501 Snyder, Capt. Napoleon 675 Snyder, Milton T 309 Sowers, T.J 313 Spalding, T. D 4.31 Speedie, Matthew 4.50 Spellmeyer, Charles 265 Spellmeyer, George H ;J5S Spellmeyer, Henry 195 Spellmeyer, H.' C 542 Spera, J. W 613 Stadler, John 619 Stare. Elias A 483 Stedmaii, Nelson 681 Steinniann, Frederick E 285 Steinmann, Henry T. 547 Stevens, Edgar N 249 Stevens, Hon. N. E 456 Stimpson, Hiland 757 Stites, Benjamin 219 Stites, William H 43 Arthur, Chester A 98 Babcock, Edward 414 Beardsley , F. W 22.5 Beardsley , Mre. F. W 22.T Bell, John D TX> Bell, Mrs. John D 730 Bernhardt, John G 402 Bernhardt, Mrs. John G 402 Beveridge, John L 170 Bicket,\V.A 210 Bissell, William H 150 Blackstock, K 312 Bogardus, Charles 270 Bond, shadrach 110 Brown, Aaron 28S Brown, jMrs. Aaron 288 Buchanan, James 74 Buchholz, Charles 454 Bulger, John 744 Burger, Joseph 650 Burns, Mrs. W. W ,')7fi Burns, W. W 577 Campbell, J. Y 518 Carlin, Thomas 1*4 Catron, A. S 301 Catron, Mrs. A. S 300 Clark, R 544 Cleveland , S. Grover 102 Collier, J. H 3»l Coles, Edward 114 Cook, F. L 216 Corbly, L 570 Clinebell, Koscie 252 Clinebell, Mrs. K 253 Crawford, James 671 Crawford, IMrs. James 670 Cruzen, Randolph 506 Culbertson, Dr. S. D 564 Cullom, Shelby M 174 Damon, O. H 4*4 Damon, Mi-s.O. H 434 Day, J. P 336 Duncan, Joseph 130 Edwards, Ninian 118 Ewing. William L. D 126 Fillmore, Millard 66 Fifer, Joseph W 182 Flora, W.B 716 Foley, J. B .551 Foley, Mrs. J. B 550 Ford, Thomas 138 French, Augustus C 142 Garfield, J. A 94 Gilmore, Albert 750 Gilmore, Mrs. Albert 751 Gilmore, Craig 802 Gilmore, Mrs. Craig 802 Grant, U.S 86 Hamilton, John M 178 Harrison, Benjamin 106 Harrison, W. H 50 Harvey, Eli 532 Hayes, R.B 90 Hevener, Robert 622 Holmes, W. B 108 Holmes, Mrs. W. B 408 Hummel, John 616 Hummel, Mrs. John 616 Hunt, John S 472 Hunt, Mrs. John .S 173 Huston, W.S 774 Huston, 5Irs. W.S 773 lehl, John 420 lehl, Mrs. John 421 Jackson, Andrew 42 Jefferson , Thomas 26 Johnson, Andrew S2 Johnson, F. J 349 Johnson, Mrs. F. J 348 Jordan , Andrew 277 Jordan, Mrs. Andrew 276 Karr, John 428 Karr, R. M 697 Karr, Mrs. R. M 698 Kenney, John F 602 Kenney, Mrs. John F 603 Kerns,E 480 Larson, Peter 396 Leach, J. B 524 Leach, Mrs. J. B .525 Lincoln, Abraham 78 Linn, J. C 558 Linn, Mrs. J. C .558 Lott, J. B ...796 Lowry, E 390 Lowi-y, Mrs. E 390 Madi.son, James 30 Matteson, Joel A 146 Mattinson, E 228 Mattinson, Mrs. E 227 McCracken, D. P 486 McCracken, Mrs. D. P 486 McNeish, Thomas 246 Merrill, J. H 782 Merrill, Mi-s. J. H 782 MiddlecofT. J. P 366 Moffett, J. H 222 Monroe, James 34 Morrison, W. T .3.30 Newkirk, Reuben 3,59 Newkirk, Mrs. Reuben 360 Oglesby , Richard J 162 Oppermann, August 678 Palmer, John M 166 Pells, W. H 190 Phipps, John 692 Pierce, Franklin 70 Polk, J. K 58 Proctor, Capt. W 657 Proctor, Jlrs. Sarall A 656 Reynolds, John 122 Roberts, James 512 Rohrbach, John 294 Rice, Edwin 318 Ross. Tini 369 Sample, Alfred. 204 Saxton, J. L (M3 Saxton.Mrs. J. L 642 Simms, William H 610 Simnis, Mrs. William H 609 Snelling, J. H 198 Snelling, Mrs. J. H 499 Sowers, T.J 312 Sowers, Mrs. T.J 312 Spellmeyer, Charles 2(>4 Spellmeyer, Mi-s. Charles 264 Stevens, E.N 249 Stevens, N. E 456 Taylor, Zachary 62 Thackray , John 684 Thackray , Mrs. John 685 Thompson. A. C 321 Thompson , John M 492 Tliompson, T. D 466 Trigger, Richard 789 Trigger, Mrs. Richard 788 Tj-ler, John 54 Tyler, N. B 596 Van Buren, Martin 46 Van Steenbergh , Edward 736 Van Steenbergh, Mrs. E 737 W^agner, .Jacob C 636 Wagner, John 664 Washington, George 18 Way, V. G 629 Way, Mrs. V. G .628 Weaver, M. H 372 Weaver, Mrs. M. H 373 Wiley, Dr. T. R 233 Wiley, Mrs. T. R 231 Wilson, William J 709 Wilson, Mi-s. W. J 708 Wood, John 154 W^under, Edward 460 Wunder, Mrs. Edward 460 Wylie.S. M 538 Yates, Richard 158 Yeager, Peter J 808 HECKMAN BINDERY INa JULY 95 Bound .To -Pla N MANCHESTER, INDIANA 46962